bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adaptation Mechanisms in Private Law
Authors: Szalai Ákos , Menyhárd Attila
Published: November 2024

Contracts are risk allocation mechanisms and, as with legal relationships generally, are social relationships. If circumstances change, the content of such relationships also changes. Adjusting such relationships to changed circumstances may be done either using a bottom-up approach, via courts, or in an top-to-bottom approach by the legislator. Implied terms, frustration of purpose, impossibility, judicial amendment of contract and the adaptive application of the rules concerning breach of contract are the tools of judicial adaptation. Intervention via legislation may be more efficient if there are a large number of cases. While legislative or administrative rule-making is determined by political decisions, judge-made rules are influenced by the constrained options of judges. That is, the latter cannot impose a standard of conduct on non-litigants, and the courts cannot handle all legal problems—many of which are not brought to court or end in settlement.
Religiously Inspired Violent Radicalisation in Southern Europe: Why It Is Not Emerging
Authors: Magazzini Tina , Eleftheriadou Marina , Triandafyllidou Anna
Published: November 2024

Following 9/11 and the terrorist attacks in western Europe over the past two decades, research on religiously inspired or attributed violent radicalisation has grown into a field of study that has developed a broad and sophisticated range of explanations, theories, and categorisations about violent attacks that are either claimed by groups linked to Islamist ideologies or individuals inspired by them. Within this field, measuring the impact of programmes designed to prevent and counter violent extremism (P/CVE) has attracted increasing interest. While significant research in this field exists in countries that have suffered the most symbolic and mediatised attacks, there is less research being conducted on countries hosting significant Muslim communities of recent arrival such as Italy, Greece, and Spain where there have either been no or very few religiously inspired violent attacks (Italy and Greece) or where such attacks have not triggered the same securitised response (Spain) as elsewhere. Bringing together the three country studies presented in this book—as well as our desk research and contribution to those—this chapter introduces the rationale for this southern European comparative analysis, presents our methodology, and outlines the contents of the chapters that follow.
Missing in Action: Understanding (the Lack of) Religiously Inspired Violent Radicalisation in Italy Against the Odds
Authors: Magazzini Tina , Eleftheriadou Marina , Triandafyllidou Anna
Published: November 2024

Despite being home to the Vatican, a strong US ally, and a NATO member that sent troops to Iraq and Afghanistan, Italy has not to date experienced successful, high-profile religiously attributed attacks. This chapter explores such ‘exceptionalism’ by employing the analytical framework put forward in Chapter 1 and by drawing on original data from interviews as well as second-hand literature. What emerges is that despite the presence of a conducive environment for radicalisation, the absence of successful attacks, so far, is likely due to very limited opportunity structures to act within. With such structures rapidly evolving, and the lack of a coordinated national resilience strategy, the past P/CVE measures might, however, prove unsuccessful or insufficient in the future.
Socio-economic Marginalisation, Fragmentation, and the Lack of Violent Radicalisation: Insights from Greece
Authors: Magazzini Tina , Eleftheriadou Marina , Triandafyllidou Anna
Published: November 2024

Radicalisation scholarship has largely shunned the study of negative cases even though they might be far more enlightening for our understanding of radicalisation. This chapter explores and interprets the lack of religiously inspired violent radicalisation in Greece. Drawing from interviews with relevant stakeholders, it argues that Greece’s resilience is replete with contradictions and does not stem from a concrete strategy or tailored policies, but rather the lack thereof. Hence, its ‘immunity’ is not built on resilience-producing attributes; it is the hitherto absence of key precipitating factors that could ‘push’ Muslims in Greece towards violent extremism.
Akzeptanz multimodaler Mobilität – Fazit und Ausblick
Authors: Graf Anne
Published: November 2024

In den vorherigen Kapiteln 6, 7 und 8 werden die individuellen Möglichkeiten für multimodale Mobilität rekonstruiert und Akzeptanzbedingungen für Verkehrsverlagerungen vom Auto auf den ÖV oder das Fahrrad untersucht. Dafür werden monomodale Autofahrer:innen und multimodale Personen gegenübergestellt sowie Verkehrsmittelentscheidungen anhand einer Vignettenstudie analysiert. Die ausgewerteten Daten wurden im Rahmen einer Bevölkerungsbefragung in drei Stadtteilen in Bochum und in Interviews mit Teilnehmenden der Befragung erhoben.
Analysis of Carbon Emission Impact Factors and Trend Prediction Based on LMDI and ARIMA Models: A Case Study of Zhejiang Province
Authors: Zhang Peng , Mu Junbo , Luo Jie
Published: November 2024

The present study proposed a method to examine the carbon emissions of various departments in Zhejiang Province from 2003 to 2020 using the IPCC sectoral method. The use of the LMDI model analyzed the factors that influence carbon emission change in Zhejiang Province. The ARIMA prediction model and grey prediction model are utilized to forecast carbon emissions of Zhejiang Province in the future. The proposed measures for carbon emission reduction in Zhejiang Province are given, and some reference basis is provided for similar provinces to carry out low-carbon transformation. The results demonstrated that: (1) The carbon emission of Zhejiang Province from 2003 to 2020 shows a linear increase trend, with a growth rate of 172% during the 18 years. (2) The energy structure of Zhejiang Province is developing towards energy cleanliness. (3) Energy intensity and industrial structure are inhibiting effects, economic output and population size are promoting effects, and energy structure has both inhibiting and promoting times. (4) ARIMA’s prediction of carbon emissions in Zhejiang Province in the next few years is more accurate than that of the grey prediction model. The prediction results of ARIMA show that Zhejiang Province will usher in the carbon peak in 2025, while the grey prediction results show that it will not usher in the carbon peak before 2027.
Organic Waste Management in Tasikmalaya City, Indonesia
Authors: Jupesta Joni , Permana Indra
Published: November 2024

Waste sector remains the largest contributor to urban greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions after the energy sector in the city level. This study aims to assess the potential of circular economy by using Black Soldier Fly (BSF) as organic agent to processing the organic waste to the value-added products fish meal and organic fertilizer in the city. The study has been conducted at organic waste management site affiliated with the Tasikmalaya City. The harvesting process for the BSF larvae (BSFL) was conducted while the co-products BSFL frass and BSFL skin were analyzed in the laboratory to determine its chemical characteristics. The result of the study shows that in average 8.33 kg BSFL has been produced from 25 kg organic waste feedstock. The highest organic carbon content was shown in the mixture of BSFL frass and skin with a value of 15.6% and followed by the BSFL frass and BSFL skin samples independently with values of 12.8% and 10.5% respectively. All maggot residues showed similar pH ranging at 6.3–6.5. The mixture of BSFL frass and BSFL skin had a higher total N content compared to only BSFL frass or BSFL skin with respective values of 5.8%, 5.2% and 2.6%. The total P2O5 content in all treatments shown almost similar values range from 3.55%, 3,12%, and 3.55% for BSFL frass, BSFL skin and the mixture of BSFL frass and BSFL skin respectively. However, the total K2O shown big discrepancy with value 1.42%, 0.53%, and 0.85% for BSFL frass, BSFL skin and mixture of BSFL frass and skin respectively. This study shown that the GHG emissions from waste in the Tasikmalaya city could be reduces by utilize organic agent such as BSF. This circular economy could create high economic value products such as BSF larvae (maggot) and co products BSFL frass and BSFL skin.
Evaluation of Social Value in Urban Parks Through Implementation of SolVES Model in Mianyang People’s Park
Authors: Zeng Mingying , Ma Qian , Gan Kar Kheng , Chen Zhanglei
Published: November 2024

Urban parks bring multiple benefits in terms of ecology, economy, culture, and well-being. While evaluation of the ecosystem service value is conducive to integrating urban functions and green space, a lack of human-nature interactions leads to neglect in knowledge and assessment of the social value of urban parks. In this study, Visitor Employed Photography (VEP) and the Social Value of Ecosystem Services (SolVES) model were utilized to connect visitors’ immediate perceptions with landscape elements, subjective will, and the geographical environment. This approach aimed to assess the social value of parks and quantify the public’s preferences in landscape layout. The results compare the relative importance of nine social values and verify that different environmental variables affect types of value indices. It is observed that the public is particularly aware of the social value generated by good planting and landscaping, as well as by proximity to water. In addition, the type of environmental landscape also has a crucial impact on perceptions. Bodies of water, characteristic landscapes, and well-maintained convenient roads emerge as key elements in people’s landscape preferences. The conclusions drawn from this study provide useful information for park management and landscape planning, particularly from the perspective of social value growth. Most importantly, they serve as a reference for future research.
Optimization of Spatial Layout of Community Elderly Care Facilities Based on POI Data in Fucheng District
Authors: Du Xiaoge , Wang Yu , Li Yaling
Published: November 2024

Community elderly care facilities, as significant facilities for maintaining the health of the elderly and supplementing family care, are a vital component of the construction of urban elderly care service systems. Reasonable layout of elderly care facilities can improve the efficiency of elderly care resource utilization and is of great importance for accelerating high-quality progress of elderly care. Taking 7 administrative streets in Fucheng District of Mianyang City as the research area, through analyzing the current situation of community elderly care facilities, it is found that the overall number of elderly care facilities in Fucheng District is insufficient, and the distribution of high in the east and low in the periphery is uneven. Half of the residential areas and elderly people are not in the service area, and there are obvious loopholes in the coverage of community elderly care facilities in the study region. Combined with the actual residential points and spatial layout of functional facilities in the research area, the location allocation model was used to optimize the layout of community elderly care facilities, and finally 20 new community elderly care facilities are determined. The optimization results can meet the convenient travel of most elderly people, basically meet the requirements of the urban community “15-min elderly care service circle”, and finally construct the community elderly care service facility network, in order to achieve a balanced and efficient layout of community elderly care facilities in Fucheng District.
Applying Numerical Simulation to Identify the Suitable Block Scale for Improving Air Quality Inside Urban Streets
Authors: Liu Wen , Huang Zhengdong , Sun Maopeng , Zhang Hongliang , Zhao Fuyun , Guo Renzhong
Published: November 2024

Rapid urbanization-induced poor ventilation makes it difficult for urban built-up environments to breathe fresh air and purify pollutants. Meanwhile, vehicle exhaust is emitted into urban streets and spread to nearby residential neighborhoods, severely threatening both the environmental quality of street space and the well-being of citizens residing adjacent to the road. The numerical simulation validated by wind tunnel measurements was adopted to examine the effects of the block scale (i.e. street length) on natural ventilation and exhaust pollutant dispersion within urban street canyons. The findings are as follows: (1) the airflow regime inside the street canyon is determined by the interaction of a canyon vortex at the middle and corner eddies at the ends, leading to notably elevated pollutant concentrations on its leeward and mid-section than on its windward and laterals; (2) the induced corner vortices at street ends can drive ambient pollutants toward the middle of the street canyon and subsequently be carried out by the canyon vortex, however there is a limit to this effect, which varies depending on the length of the street canyon with constant aspect ratio; (3) a proper block scale (street length) ranging from 200 m to 400 m is recommended, which could be used to strike a favorable balance between environmentally improving urban street air quality and morphologically creating a vibrant public space. Numerical simulation-based design strategies can be utilized to optimize existing urban design guidelines for creating a desirable scale in practical urban planning and construction.
A Framework of Urban Renewal for Leisure Space in Neighborhood Streets: A Case Study of Shazheng Street in Chongqing, China
Authors: Li Yiqun , Cheshmehzangi Ali , He Bao-Jie
Published: November 2024

Urban street spaces serve as a platform for fulfilling people's travel requirements and facilitating complicated and diverse social interactions. In this context, leisure spaces play a crucial role in urban streets. Nevertheless, with the acceleration of urbanization, the current design of street leisure space generally has problems of low quantity, inferior quality, and lack of humanism, which can not meet the needs of people’s rest and communication in the street space. This study applied environmental psychology and typology theories, selected Shazheng Street in Chongqing as the research object， explored the link between the urban street environment and leisure behavior, and proposed a practical and effective design framework for the renewal of neighborhood street leisure spaces. The design framework first analyzes the current status of street leisure space in terms of the general street layout, the building interface along the street, and the structure of sidewalk cross-sections, and then discusses where leisure spaces can be designed for different structures of sidewalk cross-sections, as well as the types and characteristics of existing rest facilities. Then, we creatively combined the Baidu heat map data analysis, which investigates the vitality of a wide range of streets, with behavioral mapping and questionnaires, which accurately investigate people's needs, to investigate people’s leisure needs accurately through the mutual validation of the results. Finally, we proposed zoning design strategies based on an analysis of the current situation and leisure needs. The findings of this study can serve as a reference for future renewal and design projects.
Data-Driven Urbanism: Image Processing Techniques for Urban Analytics
Authors: Al-Obaidi Karam M. , Wang Jing , Hossain Mohataz
Published: November 2024

Geographic databases provided by open and public sources lack a high degree of accuracy. Although these sources were developed by collecting data from surveys, tracing from aerial imagery and freely licensed geodata sources, their reliability is questionable in testing new concepts for urban analytics and developing solutions for City Information Modelling (CIM). This study aims to examine a method using digital image processing to deliver precise information and accurate data for urban analytics. The research applied algorithmic solutions using content-based image segmentation, which accurately segments roof regions of buildings from aerial images. The study utilised an open access dataset annotated using 72 images grouped into 6 larger tiles from a joint project between Humans in the Loop with the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre in Dubai, the UAE. The results show the efficiency of extracting buildings and their detailed features in an urban context. Finally, the study demonstrates the reliability of using the Base UNet model and the ResNet-based UNet, in analyzing urban aerial images.
Health-Oriented Walkability Measurement and Enhancement Strategies for Life Circle
Authors: Xie Mingfeng , Wang Yu
Published: November 2024

Walkability is an important characterization of the degree of pedestrian friendliness in cities, and is also an important element of healthy urban planning. However, due to the heat island effect and climate warming, the poor thermal comfort of walking in summer has seriously hindered residents’ willingness to walk. In this paper, we take Nanhe Community 15-min living circle in Mianyang City, Sichuan Province as an example, simulate the thermal environment in the living circle in summer through ENVI-met software, and calculate the walkability based on the walk score, and simulate the identification of the thermal environment and walkability condition of the living circle. The results show that the overall thermal environment in the study area is poor, especially in the residential and commercial areas where buildings are concentrated, which affects the residents’ willingness to travel, while the thermal environment at the edge of the study area is relatively good due to the factors such as the river. By combining the thermal environment simulation and walkability simulation results, the high walkability-low thermal comfort spaces and low walkability-high thermal comfort spaces are identified. Optimization strategies are proposed for these two types of spaces, in order to provide guidance for the improvement of walkability in the living area.
Characteristics of Climate Element Changes and Mango Planting Climate Suitability Changes in Panxi Region Under Global Warming
Authors: Yin Xuemei , He Ke , Chen Dongdong , Li Xuan , Li Yuzhu , Wang Mingtian
Published: November 2024

Based on the observation data of 32 meteorological stations in Panxi and surrounding areas from 1961 to 2020 and Digital Elevation Model (DEM) data, the climate suitability zoning indicators for mango planting in Panxi region are comprehensively determined. Using linear trend analysis and regression methods, a grid calculation model for zoning indicators is established to analyze the changes in zoning indicators and the suitability of mango planting in Panxi region during the two periods of 1961–1990 and 1991–2020. The results show that the annual average temperature, ≥ 10℃ accumulated temperature, and overwintering average temperature in Panxi region show a high in the south and low in the north characteristic, increasing or adding at a rate of 0.2℃/10a, 86℃∙d/10a, 0.3℃/10a respectively; the sunshine duration is generally distributed in a zonal pattern, increasing at a rate of 16.3h/10a. The main mango planting areas in Panxi region are concentrated in the southwest, the suitable areas are mainly distributed in the central part of Panzhihua City, the sub-suitable areas are mainly located in the central and southern parts of Panzhihua City and Huili City, and the unsuitable areas are mainly concentrated in the central and northern parts. After 1990, the area of suitable climate for mango planting in Panxi region increased by 21.55 × 102 km2, an increase of 3.2%; the area of sub-suitable area increased by 50.96 × 102 km2, an increase of 7.5%; the area of unsuitable area decreased by 72.51 × 102 km2, a decrease of 10.7%. The highest altitude of the suitable area increased by 161m, the highest altitude of the sub-suitable area increased by 221m, the suitable range moved to high-altitude areas, the planting boundary moved northward, and global warming is generally beneficial to mango planting in Panxi.
Research on the Resilience Transformation Strategy of Quarantine Hotels and Concentrated Quarantine Points Under Public Health Emergencies
Authors: Lin Chang , Li Yuxi , Huang Haitian
Published: November 2024

This paper explores the resilience transformation of quarantine hotels and concentrated quarantine points in public health emergencies for optimized medical space usage, employing a mixed-methods approach that combines case studies and qualitative analysis. During the COVID-19 pandemic, traditional medical facilities experienced significant pressures on space and resources, underscoring the need for resilience in non-traditional medical spaces. By analyzing specific quarantine hotels and points, we identify and implement transformation measures including design adjustments, functional layout optimization, and clean/dirty zoning. These strategies significantly enhance medical resource efficiency and reduce cross-infection risks. Our findings indicate that such transformations not only improve immediate pandemic response capabilities but also bolster the overall resilience of public health systems against future crises.
The Construction of Doctor-Patient Relationship Based on Convergence Media Under Major Public Health Events
Authors: Ding Yanfei , Zhang Yifei
Published: November 2024

As the main body of epidemic prevention and control, public hospitals are more professional, authoritative and credible. They are important participants and main parts of epidemic prevention and control propaganda. The doctor-patient relationship was once unprecedented harmonious. On this basis, the trust established is more stable, so how to build a long-term and good doctor-patient interaction based on this trust in the post-epidemic era is an important way to build the social reputation of the current public hospitals. To maintain and consolidate this harmonious relationship, the convergence media still have a great research space and broad practice platform in top-level design, agenda setting, channel development and ethical self-discipline of practitioners. Based on the interactive paradigm of convergence media and the new model of Internet medical treatment, this paper explores a new model in line with China’s national conditions, namely, “filial piety relationship model”, which is of great significance to the long-term maintenance of harmonious and friendly medical relations.
Generalized symmetries in 2D from string theory: SymTFTs, intrinsic relativeness, and anomalies of non-invertible symmetries
Authors: Franco Sebastián , Yu Xingyang
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Generalized global symmetries, in particular non-invertible and categorical symmetries, have become a focal point in the recent study of quantum field theory (QFT). In this paper, we investigate aspects of symmetry topological field theories (SymTFTs) and anomalies of non-invertible symmetries for 2D QFTs from a string theory perspective. Our primary focus is on an infinite class of 2D QFTs engineered on D1-branes probing toric Calabi-Yau 4-fold singularities. We derive 3D SymTFTs from the topological sector of IIB supergravity and discuss the resulting 2D QFTs, which can be intrinsically relative or absolute. For intrinsically relative QFTs, we propose a sufficient condition for them to exist. For absolute QFTs, we show that they exhibit non-invertible symmetries with an elegant brane origin. Furthermore, we find that these non-invertible symmetries can suffer from anomalies, which we discuss from a top-down perspective. Explicit examples are provided, including theories for Y(p,k)(ℙ2), Y(2,0)(ℙ1 × ℙ1), and ℂ4/ℤ4 geometries.
Crescendo beyond the horizon: more gravitational waves from domain walls bounded by inflated cosmic strings
Authors: Bao Yunjia , Harigaya Keisuke , Wang Lian-Tao
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Gravitational-wave (GW) signals offer a unique window into the dynamics of the early universe. GWs may be generated by the topological defects produced in the early universe, which contain information on the symmetry of UV physics. We consider the case in which a two-step phase transition produces a network of domain walls bounded by cosmic strings. Specifically, we focus on the case in which there is a hierarchy in the symmetry-breaking scales, and a period of inflation pushes the cosmic string generated in the first phase transition outside the horizon before the second phase transition. We show that the GW signal from the evolution and collapse of this string-wall network has a unique spectrum, and the resulting signal strength can be sizeable. In particular, depending on the model parameters, the resulting signal can show up in a broad range of frequencies and can be discovered by a multitude of future probes, including the pulsar timing arrays and space- and ground-based GW observatories. As an example that naturally gives rise to this scenario, we present a model with the first phase transition followed by a brief period of thermal inflation driven by the field responsible for the second stage of symmetry breaking. The model can be embedded into a supersymmetric setup, which provides a natural realization of this scenario. In this case, the successful detection of the peak of the GW spectrum probes the soft supersymmetry breaking scale and the wall tension.
Non-planar corrections in ABJM theory from quantum M2 branes
Authors: Giombi Simone , Kurlyand Stefan A. , Tseytlin Arkady A.
Published: November 2024

Abstract

The quantization of semiclassical strings in AdS spacetimes yields predictions for the strong-coupling behaviour of the scaling dimensions of the corresponding operators in the planar limit of the dual gauge theory. Finding non-planar corrections requires computing string loops (corresponding to torus and higher genus surfaces), which is a challenging task. It turns out that in the case of the Uk(N) × U−k(N) ABJM theory there is an alternative approach: one may semiclassically quantize M2 branes in AdS4 × S7/ℤk which are wrapped around the 11d circle of radius 1/k = λ/N . Such M2 branes are the M-theory generalization of the strings in AdS × CP3. In this work, we show that by expanding in large M2 brane tension T2 ~ $$ \sqrt{kN} $$

kN

for fixed k, followed by an expansion in large k, we can predict the large λ asymptotics of the non-planar corrections to the dimensions of the dual ABJM operators. As a specific example, we consider the M2 brane configuration that generalizes the long folded string with large spin in AdS4, and compute the 1-loop correction to its energy. This calculation allows us to determine non-planar corrections to the universal scaling function or cusp anomalous dimension. We extend our analysis to the semiclassical M2 branes that generalize the “short” and “long” circular strings with two equal angular momenta in CP3. The “short” M2 brane corresponds to a dual operator whose dimension at strong coupling scales as ∆ ∼ λ1/4 + …, and we derive the leading non-planar correction to it.
Mellin amplitudes for AdS3 × S3
Authors: Behan Connor , Pitombo Rodrigo S.
Published: November 2024

Abstract

There are holographic superconformal theories in all dimensions between two and six which allow arbitrary tree-level four-point functions to be fixed by basic consistency conditions. Although Mellin space is usually the most efficient setting for imposing these contraints, four-point functions in two dimensions have thus far been an exception due to their more intricate dependence on the conformal cross-ratios. In this paper, we introduce a simple fix which exploits the relation between a parity-odd conformal block in two dimensions and a parity-even conformal block in four dimensions. We then apply the resulting toolkit to a study of the paradigmatic holographic theory in two dimensions which is the D1-D5 CFT. For correlators involving Kaluza-Klein modes of the tensor multiplet, this analysis reproduces results which were previously obtained using hidden conformal symmetry. With four Kaluza-Klein modes of the graviton multiplet, it yields new results including a compact formula for the correlators of all pairwise identical operators.
Advancing the understanding of energy-energy correlators in heavy-ion collisions
Authors: Barata João , Caucal Paul , Soto-Ontoso Alba , Szafron Robert
Published: November 2024

Abstract

We investigate the collinear limit of the energy-energy correlator (EEC) in a heavy-ion context. First, we revisit the leading-logarithmic (LL) resummation of this observable in vacuum following a diagrammatic approach. We argue that this route allows to naturally incorporate medium-induced effects into the all-orders structure systematically. As an example, we show how the phase-space constraints imposed by the static medium on vacuum-like emissions can be incorporated into the LL result by modifying the anomalous dimensions. On the fixed-order side, we calculate the $$ \mathcal{O} $$
O
(αs) expansion of the in-medium EEC for a γ → $$ q\overline{q} $$
q

q
¯

splitting with arbitrary kinematics including, for the first time, subleading colour corrections. When comparing this result to previously used approximations in the literature, we find up to $$ \mathcal{O} $$
O
(1) deviations in the regime of interest for jet quenching signatures. Energy loss effects are also quantified and further suppress the EEC at large angles. These semi-analytic studies are complemented with a phenomenological study using the jet quenching Monte Carlo JetMed. Finally, we argue that the imprint of medium-induced effects in energy-energy correlators can be enhanced by using an alternative definition that takes as input Lund primary declusterings instead of particles.
Impurities with a cusp: general theory and 3d Ising
Authors: Cuomo Gabriel , He Yin-Chen , Komargodski Zohar
Published: November 2024

Abstract

In CFTs, the partition function of a line defect with a cusp depends logarithmically on the size of the line with an angle-dependent coefficient: the cusp anomalous dimension. In the first part of this work, we study the general properties of the cusp anomalous dimension. We relate the small cusp angle limit to the effective field theory of defect fusion, making predictions for the first couple of terms in the expansion. Using a concavity property of the cusp anomalous dimension we argue that the Casimir energy between a line defect and its orientation reversal is always negative (“opposites attract”). We use these results to determine the fusion algebra of Wilson lines in $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 4 SYM as well as pinning field defects in the Wilson-Fisher fixed points. In the second part of the paper we obtain nonperturbative numerical results for the cusp anomalous dimension of pinning field defects in the Ising model in d = 3, using the recently developed fuzzy-sphere regularization. We also compute the pinning field cusp anomalous dimension in the O(N) model at one-loop in the ε-expansion. Our results are in agreement with the general theory developed in the first part of the work, and we make several predictions for impurities in magnets.
Estimating the prevalence of child labour in the cocoa industry via indirect elicitation methods: a mixed-methods study
Authors: Lepine Aurelia , N’Djore Yah Ariane Bernadette , Treibich Carole , Cust Henry , Foubert Laurent , Passey Megan , Binder Selina
Published: November 2024

Data from children suggest that the prevalence of child labour in the cocoa industry in Côte d’Ivoire is a worrying 38%. However, while surveying children has the potential to reduce sensitivity biases such as social desirability bias, it presents significant ethical dilemmas and may also be associated with other reporting biases, making accurate estimates of child labour difficult. To address this, we collected data from 1741 cocoa producers to assess whether parents could provide more accurate estimates using indirect survey methods. We compared direct questioning with a list experiment and a novel non-verbal method (‘colorbox’). We found higher prevalence rates of child labour using indirect elicitation methods, but lower than those obtained from children’s surveys. Qualitative in-depth interviews revealed motivations for underreporting, including fear of legal consequences and mistrust of stakeholders. Indirect methods alone are not sufficient to correct for underreporting when child labour is collected from parents. Future research should prioritise direct data collection from children and address ethical concerns to obtain more accurate estimates of child labour.
Discretization-independent node-based shape optimization with the Vertex Morphing method using design variable scaling
Authors: Geiser Armin , Schmölz David , Baumgärtner Daniel , Bletzinger Kai-Uwe
Published: November 2024

The Vertex Morphing method is a node-based shape parameterization that uses an explicit filtering approach to regularize the optimization problem and generate smooth shapes. It has been successfully applied to shape optimization problems of industrial size in recent years. This work investigates in detail how irregular discretizations, design surface boundaries, and complex geometries can influence the progress of a gradient-based optimization using the standard Vertex Morphing formulation. A sensitivity weighting approach based on the available shape morphing functions is presented, which eliminates all of the aforementioned influences. Subsequently, a design variable scaling strategy is developed that transforms the optimization problem into an alternative design space and allows the use of arbitrary, even highly irregular surface discretizations in combination with black-box optimization algorithms for shape optimization with the Vertex Morphing method. Illustrative academic examples and an application case of an additively manufactured part are presented to support the work.
Do Women with Urinary Incontinence and Pelvic Organ Prolapse Receive Optimal First-Line Treatment?
Authors: Bø Kari , Engh Marie Ellstrøm , Teig Catherine Joyce , Tennfjord Merete Kolberg
Published: November 2024

Introduction and Hypothesis

There is scant knowledge on previous pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) in women with urinary incontinence (UI) and pelvic organ prolapse (POP) referred to hospitals. We hypothesized that women with predominately UI and POP had not received optimal primary care conservative management.

Methods

This was a descriptive, cross-sectional survey among women attending a gynecological outpatient’s clinic. The questionnaire included questions about demographics, PFMT dosage, whether ability to contract had been assessed and whether the patients had used precontraction before increase in intra-abdominal pressure (“the knack”).

Results

One hundred two women, mean age 52.5 (SD 13.4) years, responded; 37.3% had never been treated previously. There was no statistically significant difference in age, BMI, level of education, parity, time since last birth, SUI, or POP between the women who had been treated conservatively or not before the hospital visit. Thirty-three percent had trained with a physiotherapist and > 35% reported that their ability to contract had not been assessed or were unsure whether it had been assessed; 37% were not able to stop their urine stream; 52% reported that they performed “the knack,” with 15.7% reporting it to be effective. Reasons for not having trained the PFM before visiting the hospital included not being motivated, not knowing how to do PFMT, not being told/advised to do PFMT and not believing PFMT would help.

Conclusion

The results of this study indicated that there is a need for improvement within first-line health care service for women with predominately UI and POP.
Diagnostic accuracy of radiomics and artificial intelligence models in diagnosing lymph node metastasis in head and neck cancers: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Valizadeh Parya , Jannatdoust Payam , Pahlevan-Fallahy Mohammad-Taha , Hassankhani Amir , Amoukhteh Melika , Bagherieh Sara , Ghadimi Delaram J. , Gholamrezanezhad Ali
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Head and neck cancers are the seventh most common globally, with lymph node metastasis (LNM) being a critical prognostic factor, significantly reducing survival rates. Traditional imaging methods have limitations in accurately diagnosing LNM. This meta-analysis aims to estimate the diagnostic accuracy of Artificial Intelligence (AI) models in detecting LNM in head and neck cancers.

Methods

A systematic search was performed on four databases, looking for studies reporting the diagnostic accuracy of AI models in detecting LNM in head and neck cancers. Methodological quality was assessed using the METRICS tool and meta-analysis was performed using bivariate model in R environment.

Results

23 articles met the inclusion criteria. Due to the absence of external validation in most studies, all analyses were confined to internal validation sets. The meta-analysis revealed a pooled AUC of 91% for CT-based radiomics, 84% for MRI-based radiomics, and 92% for PET/CT-based radiomics. Sensitivity and specificity were highest for PET/CT-based models. The pooled AUC was 92% for deep learning models and 91% for hand-crafted radiomics models. Models based on lymph node features had a pooled AUC of 92%, while those based on primary tumor features had an AUC of 89%. No significant differences were found between deep learning and hand-crafted radiomics models or between lymph node and primary tumor feature-based models.

Conclusion

Radiomics and deep learning models exhibit promising accuracy in diagnosing LNM in head and neck cancers, particularly with PET/CT. Future research should prioritize multicenter studies with external validation to confirm these results and enhance clinical applicability.
Nanofillers modified with aluminum carboxylate for application in Polymer composite electrolytes for lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Słojewska Magdalena , Czerwiński Arkadiusz , Monikowska Dorota , Kruk Joanna , Zygadło-Monikowska Ewa
Published: November 2024

One of the additives that positively influence the parameters of the electrolyte for lithium-ion cells are ceramic nanoparticles, such as SiO2 and α-Al2O3. However, they tend to agglomerate and sediment, which is an unfavorable phenomenon. An effective strategy to prevent this is to modify the surface of the particles with polymeric compounds, which can increase compatibility and stability in the electrolyte system. To reduce agglomeration and sedimentation, a method was developed to modify aluminum oxide and silica particles using aluminum carboxylate, which chemically combines with inorganic particles that have hydroxyl groups on their surface through an alkoxide bond. This method allows the introduction of oligooxyethylene groups to the ceramic surface, thus obtaining more stable systems. The effectiveness of this modification was confirmed through dynamic light scattering (DLS) measurements of particle size in liquid organic solvents, which are potential solvents for liquid electrolytes in lithium-ion cells. The modified nanosilica and aluminum oxide particles were then used as additives to solid polymer electrolytes made of poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO). This led to higher conductivity values compared to the use of unmodified fillers. The obtained values of lithium transference number for solid polymer electrolyte with PEO/CF3SO3Li and nanosilica or aluminum oxide modified with aluminum carboxylate are equal to 0.32–0.40.
Distanzelektroimpulsgeräte (DEIG)
Authors: Ackmann Jana , Steven Daniel
Published: November 2024

Hintergrund

Distanzelektroimpulsgeräte (DEIG, „Taser“) werden zunehmend auch in Deutschland eingesetzt. Sie sollen durch die Androhung des Einsatzes die Gewaltdelikte gegenüber Polizeibeamten verhindern und durch den ggf. notwendigen Einsatz mittlere und schwere Verletzungsfolgen bei Beamten und gewalttätigen Störern reduzieren. Durch die Abgabe repetitiver Stromimpulse kommt es zur neuromuskulären Lähmung und Handlungsunfähigkeit. Es gibt jedoch Sicherheitsbedenken aufgrund von Todesfällen im Zusammenhang mit DEIG.

Ziel der Arbeit

Ziel der Arbeit ist es, einen Überblick über mögliche medizinische Risiken des Einsatzes von DEIG aufzuzeigen.

Methoden

Es erfolgte eine ausführliche Literaturrecherche in relevanten Datenbanken.

Ergebnisse

DEIG bieten insgesamt ein gutes Sicherheitsprofil, können aber selten schwere oder lebensbedrohliche gesundheitliche Folgen haben. Hierzu gehören Verletzungen vulnerabler Körperregionen und Sturzfolgen. Ein myokardiales Capture und maligne Arrhythmien sind im Tierexperiment auslösbar. Die Kausalität von Todesfälle nach DEIG-Einsatz kann bei konkurrierenden Ursachen meist nicht mehr eindeutig zugeordnet werden, in den vorhandenen Studien mit Freiwilligen konnten bisher aber keine Arrhythmien beobachtet werden. Insgesamt scheint das Risiko für lebensbedrohliche Herzrhythmusstörungen beim Menschen gering, wenn auch vorhanden, zu sein. Zu den besonders gefährdeten Risikogruppen gehören Kinder, psychisch Vorerkrankte, Intoxikierte, Schwangere und Device-Träger.

Fazit

Auch wenn DEIG prinzipiell maligne Arrhythmien auslösen können, ist das Risiko gering und die Kausalität von Todesfällen nach DEIG-Einsatz oft nicht sicher zu klären. In der medizinischen Versorgung von Patienten nach DEIG-Einsatz sind vor allem Komorbiditäten wie Intoxikationen oder psychische Erkrankungen zu bedenken.
Periprosthetic seromas and a third space effect after high-dose methotrexate
Authors: Prattes Claudia , Leithner Andreas , Szkandera Joanna , Prattes Georg , Urban Ernst-Christian , Eder-Halbedl Andrea , Strenger Volker
Published: November 2024

Background

Besides surgery, chemotherapy including high-dose methotrexate is a mainstay of osteosarcoma treatment. Methotrexate is known to accumulate in tissues and cavities, so-called third spaces (e.g., periprosthetic seromas) leading to local toxicity and delayed elimination (third space effect). We compared the concentrations of methotrexate in serum and periprosthetic seromas to evaluate a potential toxic risk based on a third space effect.

Methods

In 45 osteosarcoma patients who were treated with endoprosthesis and high-dose methotrexate (HDMTX) between 1991 and 2011 we retrospectively analyzed methotrexate concentrations in periprosthetic seromas and serum. Differences were assessed by means of the Wilcoxon test.

Results

A total of 112 periprosthetic seroma punctures were performed in 18 out of 45 patients. At 24 h the periprosthetic seroma concentrations were in median 14.86-fold (range 1.49–42.97-fold, p = 0.001), at 48 h in median 8.50-fold (range 1.36–52.56, p < 0.001) and at 72 h in median 2.66-fold (range 0.66–5.82, p = 0.015) of the corresponding serum concentrations. At 24 h highly toxic concentrations (≥ 20 μmol/l) were observed in 30% of all analyzed seromas (median 109.83 μmol/l, range 4.91–170.71 μmol/l). A significantly higher serum concentration (range 0.16–0.75 μmol/l, median 0.36 µmol/l) was found in patients with prior puncture than patients without puncture at 45 h after HDMTX.

Conclusion

Methotrexate concentrations of periprosthetic seromas are significantly higher than corresponding serum concentrations possibly contributing to a third space effect. To avoid severe adverse effects punctures of these effusions should be considered.
Severe alcohol withdrawal during pregnancy or early postpartum: maternal and fetal outcomes
Authors: Daidone Shaun , Unlu Hayrunnisa , Yehia Asmaa , Zhang Nan , Abulseoud Osama A.
Published: November 2024

Objective

Alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS) during pregnancy is under-researched despite growing concerns about increased alcohol use among pregnant women. This study aims to explore the severity of AWS and its impact on maternal and fetal outcomes.

Methods

This retrospective study reviewed the medical records of patients admitted to the Mayo Clinic who underwent the CIWA-Ar protocol for AWS from June 2019 through June 2022. Pregnant women identified in this cohort had their pregnancy, labor, and neonatal data analyzed for alcohol-related complications and outcomes.

Results

Out of the medical records reviewed, 8 cases involved pregnant women experiencing AWS. These cases showed a high severity of withdrawal symptoms, with a median peak CIWA-Ar score of 17 (IQR = 14). Maternal complications included a high rate of ICU admissions (37.5%; n = 3) and significant rates of miscarriage and stillbirth (37.5%; n = 3). Fetal outcomes were concerning, with 1 out of 5 (20%) neonates requiring NICU admission and experiencing conditions such as respiratory failure and neonatal abstinence syndrome. Developmental problems were noted in 2 out of 5 (40%) newborns.

Conclusions

The findings highlight the severe implications of AWS during pregnancy, impacting both maternal and fetal health. The severity of AWS requires attentive clinical management and preventative interventions. Future research should focus on larger, prospective studies to better understand and address the risks associated with AWS in pregnant women and to improve health outcomes for mothers and their children.

Article Highlights

• Severe AWS during pregnancy leads to high ICU admissions and adverse neonatal outcomes.

• 37.5% of pregnant women with AWS experienced miscarriage or stillbirth.

• 20% of newborns from mothers with AWS required NICU admission for serious conditions; 40% of newborns had developmental problems.

• Findings underscore the need for specialized treatment protocols to improve outcomes for pregnant women and their newborns.
Development of a model-based modular building kit for sensor-integrating machine elements—Theory and application
Authors: Küchenhof Jan , Breimann Richard , Kirchner Eckhard , Gomberg Ilja , Trieu Hoc Khiem , Alamsha Kamal , Knoll Erich , Stahl Karsten , Menning Johannes , Wallmersperger Thomas , Ewert Arthur , Schlecht Berthold , Prokopchuk Artem , Henke E. -F. Markus , Seltmann Stephanie , Hasse Alexander , Chen Chen , Drossel Welf-Guntram , Krause Dieter
Published: November 2024

In the Priority Program 2305 of the German Research Foundation, so-called Sensor-integrating Machine Elements (SiME) are to be developed. These are essentially highly standardized components with integrated microelectronics. The present article presents the development of a model-based construction kit to support the design of integrated sensor systems for these new machine elements. A methodical procedure for collecting the development data required for modeling the modular building kit for SiME is presented and applied to four different cases within the project. Use cases, product structure and module diagrams were recorded and modeled for the machine elements screw, gear, coupling and feather key. These are then linked in SysML models to enable sensor systems for SiME to be configured in line with requirements. The modeling of the system architectures deepens the understanding of the underlying mechatronic system architecture and supports the identification of differentiation features as well as synergy potentials.