bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rTPA) for treatment of fibrin in the anterior chamber of the horse
Authors: Pereira Regina , Bowen Mark , Rapezzano Giulia , Redpath Adam , Pratt Steffi , Hallowell Gayle
Published: May 2024

Background

Recombinant intracameral tissue plasminogen activator (rTPA) administration can aid clearance of fibrin from the anterior chamber.

Materials and methods

In this retrospective multicentre case series, the effect of intracameral rTPA administration to treat fibrin in the anterior chamber resulting from trauma or inflammatory ocular disease was evaluated. Clinical data from 30 treatments in 29 horses were obtained from medical records from 2003 to 2022. Association between time from onset of clinical signs and time for rTPA treatment to effect was studied with regression analysis.

Results

Twenty‐seven horses (93.1%) had no previous history of ophthalmic disease; one had an iridic cyst, and another had equine recurrent uveitis. The majority of cases were related to trauma (79.3%). Median time from the onset of clinical signs to treatment was 12 h (IQR = 4–48 h). rTPA (72% 20 µg; 24% 25 µg; 3.3% 40 µg) was administered once in all but one eye, which was treated twice. Resolution of fibrin was seen in 96.9% (29/30) of treatments. Fibrin accumulation recurred in one case but resolved 14 days after the second treatment. Complications were seen in four treatments (13.3%): moderate pain for 24 h, intracameral debris and mild intracameral haemorrhage in a horse that received 40 µg of tissue plasminogen activator. Recurrence of fibrin accumulation was absent in 96.7% of cases. Median time to effect was 20 min (IQR = 10–45 min). Time for rTPA treatment to effect was not associated with time from fibrin formation (R2 = 0.09; p = 0.11).

Conclusion

Intracameral rTPA treatment can be considered at 20–25 µg in 0.1 mL solution to aid resolution of fibrin accumulation.
A case of haemoglobinuria in a cat after near‐drowning
Authors: Hansen Whitney L
Published: May 2024

The aim of this study is to describe a case of haemoglobinuria in a cat after near‐drowning.

A 6‐year‐old male neutered domestic short hair cat weighing 6.5 kg with a pre‐existing seizure disorder presented to an emergency hospital after near‐drowning in a swimming pool during a seizure episode. On presentation, the patient was obtunded, dyspnoeic, bradycardic and hypothermic. Imaging revealed evidence of severe bilateral pulmonary infiltrates. Treatment with intravenous diazepam, amoxicillin, fluid therapy, active warming and oxygen therapy was administered. The cat developed haemoglobinuria approximately 6 h after nearly drowning. Despite improvements in mentation, pulse quality and heart rate, respiratory compromise and poor oxygen saturation persisted, prompting euthanasia approximately 10 h after admission.

To the author's knowledge, this is the first reported clinical case of haemoglobinuria following near‐drowning in veterinary medicine.
Work Within Your Sector
Authors: Pyman Mark , Heywood Paul M.
Published: May 2024

This chapter explains why focusing on sectors as a locus for reform makes good sense, provides a definition of sectors and also various examples of international initiatives that offer anti-corruption support at sector level.
Holography of broken U(1) symmetry
Authors: Chaffey Ian , Fichet Sylvain , Tanedo Philip
Published: May 2024

Abstract

We examine the Abelian Higgs model in (d+ 1)-dimensional anti-de Sitter space with an ultraviolet brane. The gauge symmetry is broken by a bulk Higgs vacuum expectation value triggered on the brane. We propose two separate Goldstone boson equivalence theorems for the boundary and bulk degrees of freedom. We compute the holographic self-energy of the gauge field and show that its spectrum is either a continuum, gapped continuum, or a discretuum as a function of the Higgs bulk mass. When the Higgs has no bulk mass, the AdS isometries are unbroken. We find in that case that the dual CFT has a non-conserved U(1) current whose anomalous dimension is proportional to the square of the Higgs vacuum expectation value. When the Higgs background weakly breaks the AdS isometries, we present an adapted WKB method to solve the gauge field equations. We show that the U(1) current dimension runs logarithmically with the energy scale in accordance with a nearly-marginal U(1)-breaking deformation of the CFT.
Variation in care and outcome for fragile hip fracture patients: a European multicentre study benchmarking fulfilment of established quality indicators
Authors: Coeckelberghs E , Vanhaecht K , Akiki A , Castillón P , Cox B , Attal R El , Foss NB , Frihagen F , Gerich TG , Kanakaris NK , Kristensen MT , Mohaddes M , Panella M , Pape HC , Sermon A , Seys D , Nijs S
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Despite the availability of clinical guidelines for hip fracture patients, adherence to these guidelines is challenging, potentially resulting in suboptimal patient care. The goal of this study was (1) to evaluate and benchmark the adherence to recently established quality indicators (QIs), and (2) to study clinical outcomes, in fragile hip fracture patients from different European countries.

Methods

This observational, cross-sectional multicenter study was performed in 10 hospitals from 9 European countries including data of 298 consecutive patients.

Results

A large variation both within and between hospitals were seen regarding adherence to the individual QIs. QIs with the lowest overall adherence rates were the administration of systemic steroids (5.4%) and tranexamic acid (20.1%). Indicators with the highest adherence rates (above 95%) were pre-operative (99.3%) and post-operative haemoglobin level assessment (100%). The overall median time to surgery was 22.6 h (range 15.7–42.5 h). The median LOS was 9.0 days (range 5.0–19.0 days). The most common complications were delirium (23.2%) and postsurgical constipation (25.2%).

Conclusion

The present study shows large variation in the care for fragile patients with hip fractures indicating room for improvement. Therefore, hospitals should invest in benchmarking and knowledge-sharing. Large quality improvement initiatives with longitudinal follow up of both process and outcome indicators should be initiated.
The dynamic locking blade plate: seven-year follow-up results of 389 patients with a femoral neck fracture
Authors: Kalsbeek J. H. , Roerdink W. H. , Krijnen P. , Berende C. A.S. , Winkelhorst J. T. , van Walsum A. D. P. , Schipper I. B.
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the long-term outcomes of patients with a femoral neck fracture (FNF), treated with the Dynamic Locking Blade Plate (DLBP).

Methods

Retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data of a multicentre cohort of patients with FNFs was conducted, regarding the long-term incidence of revision surgery after DLBP. Implant failure was evaluated using Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression analysis. Secondary outcomes were the indication for revision surgery, complications, time to revision surgery, rate of elective removal of the implant, potential predictors for revision surgery and mortality.

Results

Median follow-up of 389 included patients was 98 months; 20.6% underwent revision surgery; 28.8% after treatment of a displaced FNF (dFNF) and 10.0% with a undisplaced FNF (uFNF). 5.7% (n = 22) of the patients had operation related complications and 32.9% (n = 128) deceased during follow-up. Median time to revision surgery was 13 (dFNF) and 18 months (uFNF). 15.7% of the DLBPs were electively removed. In the multivariate Cox regression analysis, female gender (hazard ratio 2.1, 95% CI 1.2–3.7) and a TAD > 25 mm (hazard ratio 2.9, 95% CI 1.7-5) were significant predictors for revision surgery in patients with dFNF.

Conclusion

This study is the first long-term follow-up study on the outcome of the DLBP. The DLBP demonstrated positive long-term results in the treatment of FNF.
Is location more determining than WHO grade for long-term clinical outcome in patients with meningioma in the first two decades of life?
Authors: Hirschmann Dorian , Nasiri Danial , Entenmann Christian Joachim , Haberler Christine , Roetzer Thomas , Dorfer Christian , Millesi Matthias
Published: May 2024

Objective

To identify factors for tumor relapse and poor outcome in patients with meningiomas in the first two decades of life.

Methods

All patients ≤ 21 years of age who underwent resection of a meningioma at the department of neurosurgery, Medical University of Vienna between 1989 and 2022 were included in this retrospective study. Clinical and radiological data were extracted from the medical records. Outcome and tumor relapse were analyzed for tumor location, histological findings and extent of resection.

Results

In this study 18 patients were included, 6 meningiomas were located in the skull base, 5 in the convexity and 7 in other locations including intraventricular and spine (2 patients each), falx, intraparenchymal and optic nerve sheath. Most frequent symptoms were seizures and cranial nerve palsy. In total 56% of the meningiomas were World Health organization (WHO) grade 1, 39% grade 2 and 5% grade 3. Gross total resection was achieved in 67%. The overall relapse rate was 61% and 50% underwent repeat surgery. All patients with convexity meningiomas became seizure free and had a favorable outcome. Relapse and clinical outcome were independent of WHO grade among the whole cohort but the outcome significantly depended on the WHO grade when patients with skull base meningiomas were analyzed as a subgroup. The relapse rate was significantly higher in cases of skull base location (100% vs. 42%, p = 0.038) and after subtotal resection (100% vs. 42%, p = 0.038). Clinical outcome was also significantly worse and the rate of complications was higher in patients with skull base meningiomas.

Conclusion

Patients with convexity meningiomas in the first two decades of life have a good outcome due to high chance of gross total resection. Patients with skull base meningioma are at high risk of relapse and poor outcome, particularly those with WHO grades 2 and 3. Subtotal resection in patients with skull base location is probably the main reason for this difference.
The acceptability of exercise prehabilitation before cancer surgery among patients, family members and health professionals: a mixed methods evaluation
Authors: Smyth Emily , Brennan Louise , Enright Rachel , Sekhon Mandeep , Dickson Jane , Hussey Juliette , Guinan Emer
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Exercise prehabilitation aims to increase preoperative fitness, reduce post-operative complications, and improve health-related quality of life. For prehabilitation to work, access to an effective programme which is acceptable to stakeholders is vital. The aim was to explore acceptability of exercise prehabilitation before cancer surgery among key stakeholders specifically patients, family members and healthcare providers.

Methods

A mixed-methods approach (questionnaire and semi-structured interview) underpinned by the Theoretical Framework of Acceptability was utilised. Composite acceptability score, (summation of acceptability constructs and a single-item overall acceptability construct), and median of each construct was calculated. Correlation analysis between the single-item overall acceptability and each construct was completed. Qualitative data was analysed using deductive and inductive thematic analysis.

Results

244 participants completed the questionnaire and n=31 completed interviews. Composite acceptability was comparable between groups (p=0.466). Four constructs positively correlated with overall acceptability: affective attitude (r=0.453), self-efficacy (r=0.399), ethicality (r=0.298) and intervention coherence (r=0.281). Qualitative data confirmed positive feelings, citing psychological benefits including a sense of control. Participants felt flexible prehabilitation program would be suitable for everyone, identifying barriers and facilitators to reduce burden.

Conclusion

Exercise prehabilitation is highly acceptable to key stakeholders. Despite some burden, it is a worthwhile and effective intervention. Stakeholders understand its purpose, are confident in patients’ ability to participate, and regard it is an important intervention contributing to patients’ psychological and physical wellbeing.

Implications

•Introduction should be comprehensively designed and clearly presented, providing appropriate information and opportunity for questions.

•Programmes should be patient-centred, designed to overcome barriers and address patients’ specific needs and goals.

•Service must be appropriately resourced with a clear referral-pathway.
Investigation of the 2010 rock avalanche onto the regenerated glacier Brenndalsbreen, Norway
Authors: Engen Siri H. , Gjerde Marthe , Scheiber Thomas , Seier Gernot , Elvehøy Hallgeir , Abermann Jakob , Nesje Atle , Winkler Stefan , Haualand Kristine F. , Rüther Denise C. , Maschler Alexander , Robson Benjamin A. , Yde Jacob C.
Published: May 2024

Rock avalanches onto glaciers are rare in Norway. Here, we examine a rock avalanche that spread onto the regenerated Brenndalsbreen, an outlet glacier from Jostedalsbreen ice cap. The rock avalanche is intriguing in that limited information exists with respect to the exact time of failure, location of detachment area, and preparatory and triggering processes. Based on an analysis of ice stratigraphy and photographic documentation, we assess that the event happened between mid-March and June 4, 2010. A potential triggering factor could have been heavy snow and rainfall combined with above freezing air temperatures on March 18–19, 2010. We use digital terrain models to determine that the detachment area is at an almost vertical rock slope in a narrow gorge above Lower Brenndalsbreen. The deposit volume is estimated to 0.130 ± 0.065 Mm3, and the H/L ratio and fahrböschung are 0.45 and 24°, respectively. We apply a Voellmy flow model to confirm the detachment location and volume estimate by producing realistic runout lengths. Although glacial debuttressing may have been a likely preparatory process, the detachment area was exposed for 45–70 years before the rock avalanche occurred. The supraglacial rock avalanche debris was separated into two branches with a distinct melt-out line across the glacier. The debris reached the glacier front in 2019 and 2020, where it started being deposited proglacially while Lower Brenndalsbreen kept receding. The 2010 Brenndalsbreen rock avalanche may not be a unique event, as deposits constituting evidence of an old rock avalanche are currently melting out at the glacier front.
Semi-active damping optimization of vibrational systems using the reduced basis method
Authors: Przybilla Jennifer , Pontes Duff Igor , Benner Peter
Published: May 2024

In this article, we consider vibrational systems with semi-active damping that are described by a second-order model. In order to minimize the influence of external inputs to the system response, we are optimizing some damping values. As minimization criterion, we evaluate the energy response, that is the $$\mathcal {H}_2$$

H
2

-norm of the corresponding transfer function of the system. Computing the energy response includes solving Lyapunov equations for different damping parameters. Hence, the minimization process leads to high computational costs if the system is of large dimension. We present two techniques that reduce the optimization problem by applying the reduced basis method to the corresponding parametric Lyapunov equations. In the first method, we determine a reduced solution space on which the Lyapunov equations and hence the resulting energy response values are computed approximately in a reasonable time. The second method includes the reduced basis method in the minimization process. To evaluate the quality of the approximations, we introduce error estimators that evaluate the error in the controllability Gramians and the energy response. Finally, we illustrate the advantages of our methods by applying them to two different examples.
Monitoring of group-structured high-dimensional processes via sparse group LASSO
Authors: Kim Sangahn , Turkoz Mehmet , Jeong Myong K. , Elsayed Elsayed A.
Published: May 2024

In a general high-dimensional process, a large number of process parameters or quality characteristics is found to be featured through their dependencies and relevance. The features that have similar characteristics or behaviors in the process operation can be categorized into multiple groups. Thus, when a few quality characteristics in the process change, it is highly probable that the process shift would have occurred in a few relevant groups. Recently, several advanced statistical process control techniques are developed to monitor the changes in high-dimensional processes under sparsity. However, monitoring schemes that utilize the grouped pattern of the quality characteristics are sparse. This paper proposes a new method to monitor the high-dimensional process when the grouped structure of the process data is observed. The proposed method identifies the potentially changed groups and individual variables within the groups based on a modified sparse group LASSO (MSGL) model. Then, a monitoring statistic is obtained using MSGL-based likelihood function to test abnormality of the process. Extensive numerical studies are conducted to demonstrate the effectiveness and efficiency of the proposed method. In addition, a real-life application of a liquefied natural gas process is presented to illustrate the proposed method.
A comprehensive approach to assess the seismic vulnerability of archaeological sites: the Wupatki Pueblo in Arizona
Authors: Gambilongo Laura , Chieffo Nicola , Lourenço Paulo B.
Published: May 2024

The proposed research work presents a comprehensive approach to assessing the seismic vulnerability of archaeological sites. This approach aims to be a quick and easy-to-use investigation procedure that enables accurate and large-scale evaluations. While the methods employed are well-established in the literature and have been widely applied to buildings, this study contributes by proposing a structured framework that integrates different assessment procedures at different levels of analysis, specifically tailored to archaeological sites. The analysis is divided into three stages within the conceptual framework: (i) the application of the Masonry Quality Index; (ii) seismic vulnerability assessment and prediction of expected damage; and (iii) analysis of individual walls’ structural response through strength domain, capacity and fragility curves. Specifically, the study explores and adapts four Vulnerability Index methods, i.e. GNDT, Formisano, Vicente and Ferreira methods, to suit the specific characteristics of archaeological sites. To this end, a simplified procedure is proposed to estimate the conventional strength in the methods’ forms. The comparison of the index-based methods is then crucial for critically evaluating the reliability of vulnerability estimations. The paper illustrates the application of this framework through a detailed case study, i.e. the archaeological site of Wupatki Pueblo in Arizona (US), demonstrating its effectiveness in evaluating the seismic risk and defining the vulnerability distribution of the site. Consequently, this approach facilitates the identification of the most sensitive areas, which necessitate further investigation, providing useful outcomes for the decision-making process concerning the conservation and protection of archaeological sites.
A Note on Modelling Bidirectional Feedback Loops in Mendelian Randomization Studies
Authors: Hwang Liang-Dar , Evans David M.
Published: May 2024

Structural equation models (SEMs) involving feedback loops may offer advantages over standard instrumental variables estimators in terms of modelling causal effects in the presence of bidirectional relationships. In the following note, we show that in the case of a single “exposure” and “outcome” variable, modelling relationships using a SEM with a simple bidirectional linear feedback loop offers no advantage over traditional instrumental variables estimators in terms of consistency (i.e. both approaches yield consistent estimates of the causal effect, provided that causal estimates are obtained in both directions). In the case of finite samples, traditional IV estimators and SEM exhibited similar power across many of the conditions we examined, although which method performed best depended on the residual correlation between variables and the strength of the instruments. In particular, the power of SEM was insensitive to the residual correlation between variables, whereas the power of the Wald estimator/2SLS improved (deteriorated) relative to SEM as the magnitude of the residual correlation increased (decreased) assuming a positive causal effect of the exposure on the outcome. The power of SEM improved relative to the Wald estimator/2SLS as the instruments explained more residual variance in the “outcome” variable.
A non-monotone trust-region method with noisy oracles and additional sampling
Authors: Krejić Nataša , Krklec Jerinkić Nataša , Martínez Ángeles , Yousefi Mahsa
Published: May 2024

In this work, we introduce a novel stochastic second-order method, within the framework of a non-monotone trust-region approach, for solving the unconstrained, nonlinear, and non-convex optimization problems arising in the training of deep neural networks. The proposed algorithm makes use of subsampling strategies that yield noisy approximations of the finite sum objective function and its gradient. We introduce an adaptive sample size strategy based on inexpensive additional sampling to control the resulting approximation error. Depending on the estimated progress of the algorithm, this can yield sample size scenarios ranging from mini-batch to full sample functions. We provide convergence analysis for all possible scenarios and show that the proposed method achieves almost sure convergence under standard assumptions for the trust-region framework. We report numerical experiments showing that the proposed algorithm outperforms its state-of-the-art counterpart in deep neural network training for image classification and regression tasks while requiring a significantly smaller number of gradient evaluations.
Firm Innovation in Hazy Days: Chinese Evidence
Authors: Wan Liyang , Liu Yunxiao , Lv Kangjuan , Zhang Ning
Published: May 2024

This paper estimates the causal effect of air pollution on firm innovation based on a nationwide sample of Chinese manufacturing firms. Using thermal inversion as instrument variable (IV), we demonstrate that air pollution significantly hurts firm innovation performance: a 1% increase in air pollution (PM2.5) in the past year, from its mean value, amounts to a 1.5% decrease in the number of invention patents compared to the average between 1999 and 2013. We also provide the casual estimate using regression discontinuity design (RDD) by exploiting the exogenous variation in pollution level caused by China’s Huai River policy: the decrease in firms’ invention patents is approximately 2.2% in the regions north of the Huai River Line. The underlying mechanism analyses reveal that poor air quality has detrimental effects on labor productivity, firms’ human capital accumulation, and financing ability. These findings highlight the substantial costs associated with air pollution, which are greater than previously thought, as it hinders innovation, a crucial driver of long-term economic growth.
Trends in incidence and mortality of early-onset cancer in Germany between 1999 and 2019
Authors: Voeltz Dina , Baginski Kira , Hornberg Claudia , Hoyer Annika
Published: May 2024

Evidence on the recent temporal trend in the incidence and mortality of early-onset cancer, i.e., cancer diagnosed at ages of < 50 years, in Germany is scarce. To estimate the temporal trend in the incidence and mortality of early-onset cancer in Germany between 1999 and 2019. Input data were obtained from the Centre for Cancer Registry Data (Zentrum für Krebsregisterdaten, ZfKD). The analysis comprised all ages until 50 years and all types of cancer classified by the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10)-codes C00-C97 (excl. C44). Temporal trends were estimated using negative binomial regression, differentiated by sex and cancer type. Between 1999 and 2019 in Germany, we observed stable or slightly increasing trends (0% and 1%) in the incidence of all early-onset cancers combined (C00-C97) for men and women, respectively, and strict declines in the mortality for both, men and women (-2% and − 3%). However, the trends differ largely with respect to sex and the individual cancer types. Early-onset cancer should be closely monitored to see whether stable and decreasing trends in the incidence and mortality continue. Knowing that despite decreasing incidence, the prevalence of a disease can rise due to their interplay with mortality, we recommend to maintain precise surveillance, efforts in prevention and early detection, as well as appropriate investments into healthcare resources, research and development.
Tropical Deep Convection, Cloud Feedbacks and Climate Sensitivity
Authors: Stephens Graeme L. , Shiro Kathleen A. , Hakuba Maria Z. , Takahashi Hanii , Pilewskie Juliet A. , Andrews Timothy , Stubenrauch Claudia J. , Wu Longtao
Published: May 2024

This paper is concerned with how the diabatically-forced overturning circulations of the atmosphere, established by the deep convection within the tropical trough zone (TTZ), first introduced by Riehl and (Malkus) Simpson, in Contr Atmos Phys 52:287–305 (1979), fundamentally shape the distributions of tropical and subtropical cloudiness and the changes to cloudiness as Earth warms. The study first draws on an analysis of a range of observations to understand the connections between the energetics of the TTZ, convection and clouds. These observations reveal a tight coupling of the two main components of the diabatic heating, the cloud component of radiative heating, shaped mostly by high clouds formed by deep convection, and the latent heating associated with the precipitation. Interannual variability of the TTZ reveals a marked variation that connects the depth of the tropical troposphere, the depth of convection, the thickness of high clouds and the TOA radiative imbalance. The study examines connections between this convective zone and cloud changes further afield in the context of CMIP6 model experiments of climate warming. The warming realized in the CMIP6 SSP5-8.5 scenario multi-model experiments, for example, produces an enhanced Hadley circulation with increased heating in the zone of tropical deep convection and increased radiative cooling and subsidence in the subtropical regions. This impacts low cloud changes and in turn the model warming response through low cloud feedbacks. The pattern of warming produced by models, also influenced by convection in the tropical region, has a profound influence on the projected global warming.
A pragmatic protocol for seed viability monitoring in ex situ plant genebanks
Authors: Wijnker Erik , Bouchaut Dione , van Treuren Rob , van Hintum Theo
Published: May 2024

Seed viability monitoring is standard practice in genebanks and is performed to assess whether seeds of an accession are of good quality or need to be regenerated to prevent loss of the accession. A precise assessment of seed viability is labor-intensive, subject to sampling error and biological variation, while it also accelerates seed depletion. Balancing a proper viability assessment against costs is a conundrum, that needs to be resolved for genebanks to efficiently preserve germplasm. After the Centre for Genetic Resources, the Netherlands (CGN) concluded that the repeatability of their outsourced germination assessments was too low, it was decided to perform the germination assays in-house. We here present data that suggest an improved consistency in our new viability assays. However, improved viability testing cannot by itself resolve the assessment conundrum. To formulate a pragmatic testing and regeneration protocol, we set new testing intervals (based on empirical data) and redefined regeneration thresholds (by defining reliability requirements). Seed lots that are found to be close to- or below regeneration thresholds may forego regeneration at the recommendation of a curators’ experience and expert judgement. Curators can schedule such seed lots for future testing at shortened intervals. By allowing for such flexibility, it is likely that better judgement calls can be made during future testing, using fewer seeds, reducing the danger of losing accessions and of unnecessary regenerations.
Efficiently Labeling and Retrieving Temporal Anomalies in Relational Databases
Authors: Khnaisser Christina , Hamrouni Hind , Blumenthal David B. , Dignös Anton , Gamper Johann
Published: May 2024

Time and temporal constraints are implicit in most databases. To facilitate data analysis and quality assessment, a database should provide explicit operations to identify the violation of temporal constraints. Against this background, the purpose of this paper is threefold: (1) we identify and provide a formal definition of five common anomalies in temporal databases, (2) we propose two new relational operations that allow, respectively, to label anomalous tuples in and to retrieve the anomalous tuples from a dataset, and (3) we provide three different SQL implementations of these operations for current relational database management systems. The healthcare domain is used to illustrate the usage and utility of the temporal anomalies. Finally, an experimental evaluation on real-world and synthetic data analyses the performance of the different implementations of the anomaly operators.
Correlation of digital twin and roll surface sensor results for AZ31 alloy TRC process
Authors: Kwiecień Szymon , Weiner Max , Lypchanskyi Oleksandr , Hamm Lucas , Schmidtchen Matthias , Ullmann Madlen , Drossel Welf-Guntram , Prahl Ulrich
Published: May 2024

Due to the growing interest in lightweight constructions, the continuous casting of nonferrous metals is continuously developing as a result of the cost-effectiveness of this process, which combines several stages of sheet production. Unfortunately, because of the characteristics of the process, the parameters in the roll gap, such as, for example, pressure and temperature, are unknown, significantly affects the understanding of the phenomena occurring in the material during rolling. Therefore, at IMF Freiberg, a sensor consisting of a piezo sensor and two thermocouples measuring the temperature at two different heights was mounted on the surface of the roll, making it possible to control the process parameters live during the TRC trial. The measurements were further supported by a digital twin in the form of a layer model, combining a viscous and solid region for each layer in a single tool. The computations in this tool are performed offline and the computation time is in the order of seconds, thus much less than that of the finite element method. Because the layer model measures the temperature of the magnesium strip, FEM simulations were used to validate measurements from thermocouples. Experimental results have been obtained that allow for a direct correlation between the development of the pressure and temperature and the length of the fully solidified LD part in the roll gap zone, which correlates directly with the effective total equivalent strain. Using the sensor and layer model, it is possible to train a digital twin that can be used for online estimation of the final strip properties obtained in the TRC process.

Graphical abstract
Evolution of fundamental mechanical properties with aliovalent Co/Cu partial substitution and preparation method for Y-123 system
Authors: Ozturk O. , Safran S. , Ada H. , Bulut F. , Seydioglu T. , Nefrow A. R. A. , Akkurt B. , Terzioglu C. , Yildirim G.
Published: May 2024

This study investigates the effect of aliovalent Co/Cu replacement and preparation method on fundamental mechanical performance features of YBa2Cu3−xCoxO7−δ (Y-123) ceramic system depending on the crack propagation mechanism by Vickers hardness measurements (Hv) and mechanical investigation models for the first time. All the findings are verified by the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) examinations. Besides, the electron-dispersive X-ray (EDX) technique verifies the successful substitution mechanism. Besides, the Vickers hardness parameters improve systematically with the increment in the Co/Cu partial substitution (serving as a barrier) level due to formation of operable slip systems, ionic bond formations, and decrement of stress-amplified strain fields. Moreover, the Y-123 ceramic produced by solid-state reaction method and molecular weight of 0.20% presents the densest and smoothest surface morphology with the largest particle distributions and well-linked cobblestone-like grains. On the other hand, the Y-123 ceramic compounds produced by the sol–gel method are more sensitive and responsive to the indentation test loads. All the findings are wholly supported by the mechanical performance properties, including the shear modulus, resilience, and degree of granularity. Furthermore, the mechanical models indicate that every compound prepared exhibits the untypical reverse indentation size effect (RISE). Additionally, the modeling studies display that the induced cracking (IIC) approach is found to be the most appropriate method to examine true Vickers hardness parameters in the plateau limit regions. All in all, this comprehensive study reports efficiently exploiting the process–structure–property relationships in Y-123 ceramic material design for physical science and mechanical application fields using the aliovalent partial substitution and preparation condition.
Inferior vena cava distensibility during pressure support ventilation: a prospective study evaluating interchangeability of subcostal and trans‑hepatic views, with both M‑mode and automatic border tracing
Authors: Zawadka Mateusz , Santonocito Cristina , Dezio Veronica , Amelio Paolo , Messina Simone , Cardia Luigi , Franchi Federico , Messina Antonio , Robba Chiara , Noto Alberto , Sanfilippo Filippo
Published: May 2024

The Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) is commonly utilized to evaluate fluid status in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU),with more recent emphasis on the study of venous congestion. It is predominantly measured via subcostal approach (SC) or trans-hepatic (TH) views, and automated border tracking (ABT) software has been introduced to facilitate its assessment. Prospective observational study on patients ventilated in pressure support ventilation (PSV) with 2 × 2 factorial design. Primary outcome was to evaluate interchangeability of measurements of the IVC and the distensibility index (DI) obtained using both M-mode and ABT, across both SC and TH. Statistical analyses comprised Bland–Altman assessments for mean bias, limits of agreement (LoA), and the Spearman correlation coefficients. IVC visualization was 100% successful via SC, while TH view was unattainable in 17.4% of cases. As compared to the M-mode, the IVC-DI obtained through ABT approach showed divergences in both SC (mean bias 5.9%, LoA -18.4% to 30.2%, ICC = 0.52) and TH window (mean bias 6.2%, LoA -8.0% to 20.4%, ICC = 0.67). When comparing the IVC-DI measures obtained in the two anatomical sites, accuracy improved with a mean bias of 1.9% (M-mode) and 1.1% (ABT), but LoA remained wide (M-mode: -13.7% to 17.5%; AI: -19.6% to 21.9%). Correlation was generally suboptimal (r = 0.43 to 0.60). In PSV ventilated patients, we found that IVC-DI calculated with M-mode is not interchangeable with ABT measurements. Moreover, the IVC-DI gathered from SC or TH view produces not comparable results, mainly in terms of precision.
Energy-Aware Microservice-Based Application Deployment in UAV-Based Networks for Rural Scenarios
Authors: Ramos-Ramos Diego , González-Vegas Alejandro , Berrocal Javier , Galán-Jiménez Jaime
Published: May 2024

Yearly, the rates of Internet penetration are on the rise, surpassing 80% in developed nations. Despite this progress, over two billion individuals in rural and low-income regions face a complete absence of Internet access. This lack of connectivity hinders the implementation of vital services like remote healthcare, emergency assistance, distance learning, and personal communications. To bridge this gap and bring essential services to rural populations, this paper leverages Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). The proposal introduces a UAV-based network architecture and an energy-efficient algorithm to deploy Internet of Things (IoT) applications. These applications are broken down into microservices, strategically distributed among a subset of UAVs. This approach addresses the limitations associated with running an entire IoT application on a single UAV, which could lead to suboptimal outcomes due to battery and computational constraints. Simulation results conducted in a realistic scenario underscore the effectiveness of the proposed solution. The evaluation includes assessing the percentage of IoT requests successfully served to users in the designated area and reducing the energy consumption required by UAVs during the handling of such requests.
Cross Sectional Survey of Antenatal Educators’ Views About Current Antenatal Education Provision
Authors: Russell-Webster Tamarind , Davies Anna , Toolan Miriam , Lynch Mary , Plachcinski Rachel , Larkin Michael , Fraser Abigail , Barnfield Sonia , Smith Margaret , Burden Christy , Merriel Abi
Published: May 2024

Objectives

Antenatal education (ANE) is part of National Health Service (NHS) care and is recommended by The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) to increase birth preparedness and help pregnant women/birthing people develop coping strategies for labour and birth. We aimed to understand antenatal educator views about how current ANE supports preparedness for childbirth, including coping strategy development with the aim of identifying targets for improvement.

Methods

A United Kingdom wide, cross-sectional online survey was conducted between October 2019 and May 2020. Antenatal educators including NHS midwives and private providers were purposively sampled. Counts and percentages were calculated for closed responses and thematic analysis used for open text responses.

Results

Ninety-nine participants responded, 62% of these did not believe that ANE prepared women for labour and birth. They identified practical barriers to accessing ANE, particularly for marginalised groups, including financial and language barriers. Educators believe class content is medically focused, and teaching is of variable quality with some midwives being ill-prepared to deliver antenatal education. 55% of antenatal educators believe the opportunity to develop coping strategies varies between location and educators and only those women who can pay for non-NHS classes are able to access all the coping strategies that can support them with labour and birth.

Conclusions for Practice

Antenatal educators believe current NHS ANE does not adequately prepare women for labour and birth, leading to disparities in birth preparedness for those who cannot access non-NHS classes. To reduce this healthcare inequality, NHS classes need to be standardised, with training for midwives in delivering ANE enhanced.
Landslide susceptibility assessment using different rainfall event-based landslide inventories: advantages and limitations
Authors: Oliveira Sérgio C. , Zêzere José L. , Garcia Ricardo A. C. , Pereira Susana , Vaz Teresa , Melo Raquel
Published: May 2024

The present work aims to evaluate potential sources of uncertainty associated with rainfall-triggered event-based landslide inventories within the framework of landslide susceptibility assessment. Therefore, this study addresses the following questions: (i) How representative is an event-based landslide inventory map of the total landslide activity and distribution in a study area?; (ii) How reliable is an event-based landslide susceptibility map?; (iii) How appropriate is an event-based landslide inventory map for independently validating a landslide susceptibility map? To address these questions, two independent and contrasting rainfall event-based landslide inventories were used, together with a historical landslide inventory, to assess landslide susceptibility for different types of landslides in a study area located north of Lisbon, Portugal. The results revealed the following findings: (i) contrasting rainfall critical conditions for failure can trigger similar landslide types, although they may vary in size and be spatially constrained by different predisposing conditions, particularly lithology and soil type; (ii) landslide susceptibility models using event-based landslide inventories are not reliable in the study area, regardless of the landslide inventory map used for training and validation; and (iii) complementary sources of uncertainty results from using incomplete historical landslide inventories to assess landslide susceptibility and non-totally independent landslide inventories for modeling validation. The present study enhances the understanding of regional landslide susceptibility patterns based on contrasting rainfall-trigger conditions, providing valuable information to minimize exposure; to design regional landslide early warning systems for specific rainfall-trigger landslide events; and to improve the response and preparedness of civil protection services.
A high accuracy Stewart-lift platform based on a programmable logic controller - theory and practical implementation
Authors: Beniak Ryszard , Majewski Paweł , Witek Michał , Klar Łukasz , Bochenek Krzysztof , Pawuś Dawid
Published: May 2024

In this paper, we propose a complex structure of Stewart platform, in 3-RSS configuration, for high precision elevator tasks. After defining the dynamic model based on the Lagrange method, we present the simulation studies concerning the system movement ability. Thereafter, based on the theoretical analysis and considerations, we design and construct a real-life object. The obtained verification tests of the system confirm its applicability in industrial automation and robotics system.
Corrosion of Heat-Transfer Materials Induced by KCl, HCl, and O2 Under Chemical-Looping Conditions
Authors: Eriksson Jan-Erik , Lehmusto Juho , Silvander Linus , Lindberg Daniel , Zevenhoven Maria , Yrjas Patrik , Brink Anders , Hupa Mikko , Hupa Leena
Published: May 2024

Chemical-looping combustion (CLC) of biomass has the potential to facilitate negative CO2 emission in heat and power production when combined with a carbon capture technique. However, typical biomass contains alkali metals and chlorine compounds, such as potassium chloride, which can lead to corrosion of heat-transfer surfaces in the reactors. The combined influence of potassium chloride, hydrochloric acid, and oxygen on the corrosion of five typical heat-transfer materials, which are potential candidates for use in the fuel reactor in a CLC process, was studied using one-week laboratory-scale experiments. The results suggested that potassium chloride, especially in the presence of HCl and O2, greatly affects the corrosion of lower-alloyed heat-transfer materials. The outcome of this study can provide valuable information for selecting suitable heat-transfer materials for CLC.
Inequality Within the Family: A Comparative Analysis of Gendered Working Time Preferences Among Dual-Earner Couples
Authors: Waismel-Manor Ronit , Levanon Asaf
Published: May 2024

The preference for reduced work hours is well-known to be associated with various social ramifications, but research on the determinants of workers’ preference is generally limited to investigating individual and job characteristics. Building on the paradigm of the social construction of gender, the life-course perspective, and scholarship on welfare policy, we examine the relationships between heterosexual dual-earner couples’ work hour arrangements and men’s and women’s own preferences for reduced work hours, as well as their desire for their spouses’ reduced work hours in 19 countries. This study contributes to the literature on gendered work hour preferences by theorizing and analyzing two gendered family-centered contexts: couples' adaptive strategies and work-family policy regimes as two main theoretical frameworks. Thus, our approach allows examining which couple-level strategies and policies can combat hours’ mismatch, given the gendered structure of work opportunities and gender norms. Second, we offer the first examination of the role that defamilization policies play in shaping preferences for reduced hours at the couple level. Using the 2010 European Social Survey, this study documents a pervasive preference for reduced work hours for men and women in dual-earner couples. Multilevel models indicate that, regardless of dual-earner couples’ work hour arrangements, individuals generally report preferences for working hours for themselves and their spouses that conform to a modified male breadwinner-female homemaker model. Moreover, individuals in dual-earner couples in countries with less developed work-family policies feel more pressed for time.
Populist Attitudes, Subjective Social Status, and Resentment in Italy
Authors: Melli Giacomo , Scherer Stefani
Published: May 2024

Social identity is relevant to political attitudes. Recent studies show that perceived social positions particularly shape populist attitudes. Italy is an interesting test case that has been scarcely investigated by previous research. Thus, using original data collected in 2021, this paper analyses populist attitudes in Italy and the relationship between subjective social status, status mismatch, and social resentment. This study finds that subjective status matters more than objective conditions for populist attitudes. Those who perceive themselves as being at the bottom of the social hierarchy tend to have higher levels of populist attitudes than the rest of the population. However, low social resentment can partially absorb the effect of low status. The paper provides original data from which novel insights into the debate on populism are discernible, appearing to stem more from individual perceptions than objective positions. The results also suggest some possible remedies against rising populist attitudes.
Life-mind continuity: untangling categorical, extensional, and systematic aspects
Authors: Sander Oest Sebastian
Published: May 2024

In this paper, I argue that current attempts at classifying life–mind continuity (LMC) feature several important ambiguities. We can resolve these ambiguities by distinguishing between the extensional, categorical, and systematic relationships that LMC might encompass. In Sect. 1, I begin by introducing the notion of LMC and the theory behind it. In Sect. 2, I show how different ideas of mind shape different approaches to continuity and how to achieve its aim. In Sect. 3, I canvas various canonical formulations and classifications of LMC; I then demonstrate that they retain important ambiguities. Section 4 builds on this by arguing that we must conceive of the extensional and categorical aspects of continuity independently. In Sect. 5, I show further that current literature has underexplored multiple systematic aspects of continuity. I then take a constructive approach in Sect. 6 by providing a classification model for LMC based on extensional and categorical commitments. Here, I comment on aspects of the thesis omitted from the model but essential for a full classification and thorough comparison between various approaches to LMC. All of these arguments lay the foundation for more exhaustively classifying accounts of LMC.