bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pregnant women at risk for iodine deficiency but adequate iodine intake in school-aged children of Zhejiang Province, China
Authors: Zheng Canjie , Yin Zhiying , Zhan Bingdong , Xu Wenjie , Ma Zheng Feei
Published: May 2024

The median urinary iodine concentration (UIC) of school-aged children has been commonly used as a surrogate to assess iodine status of a population including pregnant women. However, pregnant women have higher iodine requirements than children due to increased production of thyroid hormones. The aim of the study was to evaluate the iodine status of pregnant women and children as well as their household salt iodine concentration (SIC) in Quzhou, Zhejiang Province, China. Eligible pregnant women and children from all six counties of Quzhou in 2021 were recruited into the study. They were asked to complete a socio-demographic questionnaire and provide both a spot urine and a household table salt sample for the determination of UIC and SIC. A total of 629 pregnant women (mean age and gestation weeks of 29.6 years and 21.6 weeks, respectively) and 1273 school-aged children (mean age of 9 years and 49.8% of them were females) were included in the study. The overall median UIC of pregnant women and children in our sample was 127 (82, 193) μg/L and 222 (147, 327) μg/L, respectively, indicating sufficient iodine status in children but a risk of mild-to-moderate iodine deficiency in pregnant women. Distribution of iodine nutrition in children varied significantly according to their sex and age (P < 0.05). The rate of adequately household iodised salt samples (18–33 mg/kg) provided by pregnant women and children was 92.4% and 90.6%, respectively. In conclusion, our results indicated a risk of insufficient iodine status in pregnant population of China, but iodine sufficiency in school-aged children. Our data also suggested that median UIC of children may not be used as a surrogate to assess iodine status in pregnant women.
Replacement of soy by mealworms for livestock feed - A comparative review between soy and mealworms considering environmental aspects
Authors: Siddiqui Shahida Anusha , Elsheikh Wadah , Ucak İlknur , Hasan Muzaffar , Perlita Zerlina Cleantha , Yudhistira Bara
Published: May 2024

The urgent need for sustainable alternatives to conventional livestock feed has prompted research into novel protein sources. This review paper systematically evaluates the prospect of replacing soy with mealworms in livestock feed, focusing on comprehensive comparisons of nutritional content and environmental considerations. The nutritional profiles of soy and mealworms are analyzed in terms of amino acid composition and digestibility. The total essential amino acids in mealworms are 26.02 g/100 g while in mealworms total EAA is 31.49 g/100 g. The protein content in mealworm is high (51.93 g/100 g) in comparison to soy meal (44.51 g/100 g). Environmental aspects, including deforestation, pesticide use, water consumption, land use, and greenhouse gas emissions, are scrutinized for both soy cultivation and mealworm farming.One kg of mealworm meal yields 141.3 MJ energy use, 3.8 kg CO2 equivalent for climate change, 25.6 g SO2 equivalent for acidification, 15.0 g PO4 equivalent for eutrophication, and 4.1 m2 land use. It's more potent per kg of protein than soybean or fish meal. Feasibility, scalability, and economic considerations are explored to understand the practical implications for livestock farmers. Consumer perception and regulatory frameworks are also addressed, highlighting potential challenges and strategies for acceptance. The paper concludes by synthesizing key findings and offering recommendations for stakeholders interested in the sustainable integration of mealworms into mainstream livestock agriculture. This comparative review provides a holistic understanding of the potential environmental benefits and challenges associated with replacing soy with mealworms in livestock feed.

Graphical abstract
Green hydrogen as a source of renewable energy: a step towards sustainability, an overview
Authors: Reda Bassma , Elzamar Amr A. , AlFazzani Shehab , Ezzat Shahira M.
Published: May 2024

Hydrogen has emerged as a promising energy source for a cleaner and more sustainable future due to its clean-burning nature, versatility, and high energy content. Moreover, hydrogen is an energy carrier with the potential to replace fossil fuels as the primary source of energy in various industries. In this review article, we explore the potential of hydrogen as a part of the global energy mix and the current state of its development. The majority of hydrogen production currently occurs through steam methane reforming, which produces significant greenhouse gas emissions and limits the potential of hydrogen as a clean energy source. Significant investment and advancements in renewable hydrogen production through electrolysis are necessary to overcome this limitation. There is also a growing demand for hydrogen infrastructure, including hydrogen refueling stations and storage and transportation systems, which are crucial for the growth and success of the hydrogen industry. The future of hydrogen as a part of the global energy mix will depend on continued investment and commitment to develop and commercialize this promising energy source. Our review also explores the relationship between eco-industrial parks and hydrogen production, including the benefits and challenges of hydrogen production in EIPs and the various technologies being developed to facilitate this process.
The Knowledge of Autism Questionnaire-UK: Development and Initial Psychometric Evaluation
Authors: Langhorne Sophie , Uglik-Marucha Nora , Broadhurst Charlotte , Lieven Elena , Pearson Amelia , Vitoratou Silia , Leadbitter Kathy
Published: May 2024

Tools to measure autism knowledge are needed to assess levels of understanding within particular groups of people and to evaluate whether awareness-raising campaigns or interventions lead to improvements in understanding. Several such measures are in circulation, but, to our knowledge, there are no psychometrically-validated questionnaires that assess contemporary autism knowledge suitable to the UK context. We aimed to produce a brief measure to assess between-respondent variability and within-respondent change over time. A pool of questionnaire items was developed and refined through a multi-stage iterative process involving autism experts and a lay sample. Attention was paid to face validity, clarity, consensus on correct responses, and appropriate difficulty levels. Initial validation data was obtained from a lay sample of 201 people. Difficulty and discrimination ability were assessed using item response theory and low-performing items were removed. Dimensionality was evaluated with exploratory factor analysis, which revealed a one-factor structure of the questionnaire. Further items were removed where they did not load strongly on their main factor. This process resulted in a final 14-item questionnaire called the Knowledge of Autism Questionnaire-UK. Internal consistency was satisfactory, and the final questionnaire was able to distinguish between parents of autistic people and those without an affiliation to autism. The KAQ-UK is a new, freely-available measure of autism knowledge that could be used to assess between-respondent variability and within-respondent change over time. Further evaluation and validation of its measurement properties are required.
Valorization of aplite in alkali-activated materials
Authors: Tsaousi Georgia-Maria , Flesoura Georgia , Panias Dimitrios
Published: May 2024

Geopolymers belong to the broad family of alkali-activated materials that are considered to have much smaller carbon dioxide (CO2) footprint than traditional Portland cements. A wide range of metallurgical wastes are utilized as silicious sources to produce geopolymer components with a prospect of numerous applications in the construction field. At the same time, efforts have been also made to the valorization of aplite rock, which is found to be abundant in Finnvolldalen of Norway and consists mainly of quartz and alkali feldspar, resembling the composition of Na-rich pozzolans. In this framework, the current study focuses on the synthesis of inorganic polymers made of aplite and metakaolin as precursors. In addition, the production of synthetic Na-waterglass is also tested as candidate soluble silica donor in geopolymer systems, through the hydrothermal treatment of aplite. The obtained results confirm that inorganic polymers produced by hydrothermally treated aplite (HTA) and metakaolin (MK) lead to materials with enhanced compressive strength values compared to specimens produced by untreated aplite and MK. At the same time, sodium silicate solution from aplite and commercially available waterglass present similar properties, indicating that aplite can be used as alternative raw material in the production of sodium silicates.
Validation and Measurement Invariance of the German and Spanish Gender Bias Scale for Women Leaders
Authors: Algner Mona , Fay Doris , Lorenz Timo
Published: May 2024

Gender bias still appears to contribute significantly to the gender disparity observed in upper leadership positions. The present study presents the translation, modification, and validation of the Gender Bias Scale for Women Leaders (GBSWL, Diehl et al., 2020) into German and Spanish. Using data from four samples of full-time employed women from Germany and Spain with and without leadership responsibility (N = 870), we conducted confirmatory factor analyses to establish factorial validity, tested measurement invariance across the different job levels and countries, and tested construct validity. Our results indicate that the original factor structure does not hold in Germany and Spain. Therefore, utilizing the German leader sample as a construction sample, we modified the factor structure and validated the modified version using the remaining three samples. The modified version demonstrated good model fit, had metric measurement invariance across all samples, and resulted in a correlational pattern consistent with theory and the original study. Overall, results suggest that the German and Spanish versions of the GBSWL are reliable and valid instruments that scholars and practitioners can use to advance theory, research, and human resource practice in Germany and Spain.
Ciprofloxacin Metal Complexes–Silica Nanoparticles: Characterization, Spectroscopic Study, DNA Interaction and Biological Activity
Authors: Abd El-Zahir Mustafa S. , Saleh Sayed M. , ElKady Hamdy A. , Orabi Adel S.
Published: May 2024

Ciprofloxacin (CIPH) was classified as one of the most effective quinolone antibiotics, which is commonly used to cure a wide range of infections resulting from Gram-negative and Gram-positive microorganisms. The complexes which formed due to the interaction of Ni(II), Zn(II), Cu(II), Gd(III) and Sm(III) with ciprofloxacin were characterized by CHN% analysis, conductivity, FTIR, electronic spectra, fluorescence measurements, and magnetic susceptibility, besides studying the complex–DNA interaction. Meanwhile, the molar conductance values (0.001 mol·L−1 in DMSO) revealed the electrolytic behavior of the complexes and could be designated with the A−B+ formula. In addition, the geometry of the compounds was confirmed from the electronic transitions as well as the μeff values as octahedral for all complexes. The postulated formula could be generally assigned as [M(CIP)a(CIPH)b(H2O)c](NO3)(H2O)n(C2H5OH)m. Moreover, the interaction between metal complexes and DNA revealed that the Cu complex had the highest binding constant. Nanotechnology was applied to synthesized compounds using silica nanoparticles (SiNPs), which were prepared using a sol–gel process. The silica nanoparticles were chemically functionalized for binding the ligand and its metal complexes; this enables the as-prepared compounds to enhance their features as a drug delivery platform. Meanwhile, the antimicrobial activity was tested for the free complexes and SiNPs composites. Collectively, Sm complex gave the largest zone of inhibition, while the Cu(II)–SiNPs composite showed the strongest potential to reduce the bacterial activity. Furthermore, the fluorescence data of CIPH, ligand–metal mixture and the effect of silica nanoparticles on them were studied.
Differential scanning calorimetric evaluation of the human plasma in patients using cilostazol for the treatment of intermittent claudication (a preliminary study)
Authors: Benkő László , Fazekas Gábor , Szabó Dorottya , Lőrinczy Dénes
Published: May 2024

This preliminary study employs differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) to assess alterations in human plasma composition in patients treated with cilostazol for intermittent claudication. Cilostazol, an antiplatelet and vasodilator agent, is commonly prescribed to moderate symptom associated with PAD caused by reduced peripheral blood flow. Patients selected according to study protocol were treated with cilostazol for a duration of three months. At the visits, subjects exercised by a standard walking test controlled by physiotherapist. The blood samples were taken on day 0 (control), day 15, 1, 2 and 3 months. Through DSC analysis, we investigate potential thermodynamic changes in plasma composition induced by cilostazol treatment. As a result of the treatment, the pain-free walking distance improved significantly in the first 3 months. The thermal unfolding of the human plasma showed a correlation with the walking improvement. Our findings provide insights into the systemic effects of cilostazol and its impact on plasma constituents in the context of PAD and intermittent claudication management.
Case study on thermal management of planar elements with various polymeric heat exchangers: experiment and simulation
Authors: Hvozda Jiri , Mraz Krystof , Raudensky Miroslav , Vakhrushev Alexander , Karimi-Sibaki Ebrahim , Bohacek Jan
Published: May 2024

A reliable battery thermal management system (BTMS) is essential to ensure proper performance, a long life span and high electric vehicle safety. The primary objective of BTMS is to maintain the cells’ temperature in the range of 15–35 °C while limiting the temperature spread between cells to below 5 °C. Active thermal management with polymeric hollow fibers (PHFs) has been reported in a few articles, but its tremendous flexibility is mainly advantageous for cylindrical cells. Extruded polymeric cold plate heat exchangers with rounded rectangle channels (RRCs) are proposed as a more elegant solution for planar batteries. Heat exchangers using PHFs and RRCs were experimentally compared, with a strong focus on minimizing the maximum temperature and temperature spread of the experimental setup while simultaneously achieving minimal pressure drops. The system behavior with different parameters, including materials, geometry and thermophysical properties, was further studied using properly validated CFD models.
Virtuelle Metamorphosen - Zur Subversion der Selbstoptimierung in Kevin Kuhns Roman Hikikomori
Authors: Resch Stephan
Published: May 2024

Kevin Kuhn’s novel Hikikomori is a postmodern Entwicklungsroman. In this essay, I read the novel as a subversion of the neoliberal paradigm, which manifests itself in an omnipresence of self-optimisation options, that the protagonist Till is constantly encouraged to take advantage of. By withdrawing into his room and creating a collaborative online world, Till rejects the cult of individuality modelled by his plastic surgeon father and his interior designer mother. Rather than going on a scheduled journey of self-enhancement around the world, I will argue that it is his virtual journey that attempts self-realisation. However, this rejection of a Weltanschauung based on economic principles comes at the price of exclusion from the analogue world, which bears many parallels with one of the most famous 20th century German language novellas: Franz Kafka’s Die Verwandlung.
Analysis of control impact on the HIV reproductive cycle in a cross infection epidemic model
Authors: Di Giamberardino Paolo , Iacoviello Daniela
Published: May 2024

Despite the great advances in HIV treatment, there are still several processes in the dynamics of the infection that are not yet fully understood. Some evidences show that when the therapy HAART is suspended, infection resumes, suggesting the existence of virus reservoirs; these have been identified in the lungs, brain and guts. In this paper, following the compartmental approach, a recently proposed model is addressed, considering in particular the brain as virus reservoir and distinguishing the cells depending on whether they are inside or outside the brain, both infected and non infected. Controls mimicking the drug action are introduced and the model is analysed in terms of equilibrium points and stability, also determining the reproduction number. Numerical results are used to put in evidence the main dynamics characteristics.
Valorization of Pineapple (Ananas comosus) By-Products in Milk Coffee Beverage: Influence on Bioaccessibility of Phenolic Compounds
Authors: Kocakaplan Zeynep Buse , Ozkan Gulay , Kamiloglu Senem , Capanoglu Esra
Published: May 2024

The industrial processing of pineapples generates a substantial quantity of by-products, including shell, crown, and core. Bromelain, a proteolytic enzyme found naturally in pineapple, including its by-products, may positively influence the bioaccessibility of phenolics from milk coffee. Therefore, this study aimed to assess how the inclusion of extracts from pineapple by-products, namely shell, crown and core, could impact the bioaccessibility of coffee phenolics when combined with milk. After measuring the proteolytic activity of pineapple by-products, the standardized in vitro digestion model of INFOGEST was employed to evaluate changes in total phenolic content, total antioxidant capacity, and individual phenolic compounds in different coffee formulations. The results showed that incorporating extracts from the crown or core in both black and milk coffee increased the bioaccessibility of total phenolics (from 93 to 114% to 105–129%) and antioxidants (from 54 to 56% to 84–87%), while this effect was not observed for the shell. Moreover, adding core extracts also enhanced the bioaccessibility of caffeoylquinic acids and gallic acid in milk coffee (from 0.72 to 0.85% and 109–155%, respectively). Overall, the findings of this study highlight that bromelain from pineapple core may have a favorable effect on the recovery of phenolic compounds in milk coffee, possibly due to its ability to cleave proteins. These outcomes point out that industrial by-products can be transformed into economic value by being reintroduced into the production process through suitable treatment instead of disposal.
A Framework for Stakeholder Involvement in eHealth Action Research
Authors: Oberschmidt Kira , Grünloh Christiane , Tabak Monique
Published: May 2024

The involvement of stakeholder groups, like patients or healthcare professionals, is highly valued in eHealth Action Research (AR) projects because it ensures a match between the project outcomes and the needs of the target group. However, few best practices or advices are available and no overview exists that describes the process of active involvement of stakeholders in the context of eHealth. Therefore, this paper presents the development of a framework for active stakeholder involvement in eHealth AR. The framework was developed based on several studies on stakeholder involvement in a project, as well as existing literature. To evaluate the framework, interviews were conducted with eight participants, who were either experts from the field or researchers currently working in practice in eHealth AR projects. Based on the suggestions made during the interviews, the framework was adjusted. The final version of the framework consists of 9 sections with a total of 56 questions, as well as material for additional reading. This framework can help researchers, especially those who are relatively new to AR and stakeholder involvement, shape their research process. A next step would be to further investigate how to operationalise the framework, for example in project meetings with stakeholders, and then, evaluate the framework in practice by implementation into an AR project from start to finish.
Synthesis of solid sodium silicate from waste glass and utilization on one-part alkali-activated materials based on spent oil filtering earth
Authors: Delgado-Plana Pedro , Bueno-Rodríguez Salvador , Pérez-Villarejo Luis , Eliche-Quesada Dolores
Published: May 2024

Alkali activated materials (AAMs) commonly known as geopolymers are considered ecofriendly substitutes for Portland cement. However, these materials still have a significant environmental impact, owing mainly to the use of activators based on commercial chemical products. In this sense, this research focuses on the production and use of waste glass–derived activators AAMs as an alternative to commercial activators. Using a thermochemical synthesis method, activator compositions were systematically designed to achieve predefined activator modulus (Ms = SiO2/Na2O = 0.5; 1.0 and 1.5). These alternative activators were studied by XRD, FTIR and SEM techniques. Additionally, one-part AAMs were manufactured using spent oil filtration earth (SOFE) as precursor and activator with optimum modulus Ms = 1.0. The influence of the Na2O dosage was studied (10; 20 and 30 g of Na2O per every 100 g of SOFE) as well as the influence of the activator modulus maintaining the optimum dosage of 20 g Na2O per 100 g of SOFE. As a control, two-part AAMs were also synthetized with the optimum dosage and modulus employing commercial activators (NaOH + Na2SiO3 solution). Results indicate that the modulus of the alternative activator and especially the Na2O dosage have a significant influence on the technological properties of AAMs based in SOFE, with an optimum compressive strength (35.8 MPa) for the addition of 20 g of Na2O per every 100 g of SOFE using activator with modulus Ms = 1.0. This research embodies a sustainable approach to AAM production and suggests waste glass as a valuable raw material for sodium silicate synthesis intended for the one-part activation of spent filtering earth from the agri-food industry, aligning with the principles of circular economy and sustainable development goals.
A question of norms and control—factors shaping sustainable energy behavior: a study among various university stakeholders
Authors: Heib Sascha , Kortsch Timo , Hildebrand Jan
Published: May 2024

This paper in the journal Gruppe. Interaktion. Organisation. presents a study that uses a subgroup approach to investigate which factors, based on the theory of planned behavior, influence energy saving behavior at a medium-sized university in Germany and whether there are differences between the subgroups. The focus will be on the largest groups within the university (i.e., academic staff, administrative/technical staff and students). For this purpose, multi-group SEM is calculated in two independent cross-sectional samples (t1: N = 1714, t2: N = 1289) collected 2.5 years apart. In addition, a third, independent longitudinal sample (N = 189) was used to examine the causal effects of the theoretical model.

The empirical findings partially reveal that injunctive social norms significantly predicted personal norms across subgroups and in both cross-sectional samples, while descriptive social norms negatively influenced personal norms only among the subgroup students. Personal norms and perceived behavioral control positively influenced energy-saving intentions across all subgroups in both cross-sectional samples. Regarding actual behavior, energy-saving intentions significantly predicted behavior across groups and time. The results are largely confirmed in the longitudinal sample. The findings show that subgroup analyzes in the organizational context can provide additional insights, but that overall the context of the organization seems to be significant for all organizational members regardless of the subgroup, as predominantly similar relationships were found between the variables under consideration in three independent samples.
Guidelines for fracture risk assessment and management of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women and men above the age of 50 in Qatar
Authors: Alam Fiaz , Alsaed Omar , Abdulla Nabeel , Abdulmomen Ibrahim , Lutf Abdo , Al Emadi Samar
Published: May 2024

We present comprehensive guidelines for osteoporosis management in Qatar. Formulated by the Qatar Osteoporosis Association, the guidelines recommend the age-dependent Qatar fracture risk assessment tool for screening, emphasizing risk-based treatment strategies and discouraging routine dual-energy X-ray scans. They offer a vital resource for physicians managing osteoporosis and fragility fractures nationwide.

Purpose

Osteoporosis and related fragility fractures are a growing public health issue with an impact on individuals and the healthcare system. We aimed to present guidelines providing unified guidance to all healthcare professionals in Qatar regarding the management of osteoporosis.

Methods

The Qatar Osteoporosis Association formulated guidelines for the diagnosis and management of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women and men above the age of 50. A panel of six local rheumatologists who are experts in the field of osteoporosis met together and conducted an extensive review of published articles and local and international guidelines to formulate guidance for the screening and management of postmenopausal women and men older than 50 years in Qatar.

Results

The guidelines emphasize the use of the age-dependent hybrid model of the Qatar fracture risk assessment tool for screening osteoporosis and risk categorization. The guidelines include screening, risk stratification, investigations, treatment, and monitoring of patients with osteoporosis. The use of a dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scan without any risk factors is discouraged. Treatment options are recommended based on risk stratification.

Conclusion

Guidance is provided to all physicians across the country who are involved in the care of patients with osteoporosis and fragility fractures.
A Peak Set of Hausdorff Dimension 2n − 1 for the Algebra A(D) in the Boundary of a Domain D with C⌃2 Boundary
Authors: Kot Piotr
Published: May 2024

We consider a bounded strictly pseudoconvex domain $$\Omega \subset \mathbb {C}^{n}$$

Ω
⊂

C

n

with $$C^{2}$$

C
2

boundary. Then, we show that any compact Ahlfors–David regular subset of $$\partial \Omega $$

∂
Ω

of Hausdorff dimension $$\beta \in (0,2n-1]$$

β
∈
(
0
,
2
n
-
1
]

contains a peak set E of Hausdorff dimension equal to $$\beta $$
β
.
Emerging DNA Methylome Targets in FLT3-ITD-Positive Acute Myeloid Leukemia: Combination Therapy with Clinically Approved FLT3 Inhibitors
Authors: Tecik Melisa , Adan Aysun
Published: May 2024

Opinion statement

The internal tandem duplication (ITD) mutation of the FMS-like receptor tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3-ITD) is the most common mutation observed in approximately 30% of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients. It represents poor prognosis due to continuous activation of downstream growth-promoting signaling pathways such as STAT5 and PI3K/AKT. Hence, FLT3 is considered an attractive druggable target; selective small FLT3 inhibitors (FLT3Is), such as midostaurin and quizartinib, have been clinically approved. However, patients possess generally poor remission rates and acquired resistance when FLT3I used alone. Various factors in patients could cause these adverse effects including altered epigenetic regulation, causing mainly abnormal gene expression patterns. Epigenetic modifications are required for hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) self-renewal and differentiation; however, critical driver mutations have been identified in genes controlling DNA methylation (such as DNMT3A, TET2, IDH1/2). These regulators cause leukemia pathogenesis and affect disease diagnosis and prognosis when they co-occur with FLT3-ITD mutation. Therefore, understanding the role of different epigenetic alterations in FLT3-ITD AML pathogenesis and how they modulate FLT3I’s activity is important to rationalize combinational treatment approaches including FLT3Is and modulators of methylation regulators or pathways. Data from ongoing pre-clinical and clinical studies will further precisely define the potential use of epigenetic therapy together with FLT3Is especially after characterized patients’ mutational status in terms of FLT3 and DNA methlome regulators.
Relevance of Cardiovascular Exercise in Cancer and Cancer Therapy-Related Cardiac Dysfunction
Authors: Wernhart Simon , Rassaf Tienush
Published: May 2024

Purpose of the Review

Cancer therapy-related cardiac dysfunction (CTRCD) has been identified as a threat to overall and cancer-related survival. Although aerobic exercise training (AET) has been shown to improve cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF), the relationship between specific exercise regimens and cancer survival, heart failure development, and reduction of CTRCD is unclear. In this review, we discuss the impact of AET on molecular pathways and the current literature of sports in the field of cardio-oncology.

Recent Findings

Cardio-oncological exercise trials have focused on variations of AET intensity by using moderate continuous and high intensity interval training, which are applicable, safe, and effective approaches to improve CRF.

AET increases CRF, reduces cardiovascular morbidity and heart failure hospitalization and should thus be implemented as an adjunct to standard cancer therapy, although its long-term effect on CTRCD remains unknown. Despite modulating diverse molecular pathways, it remains unknown which exercise regimen, including variations of AET duration and frequency, is most suited to facilitate peripheral and central adaptations to exercise and improve survival in cancer patients.
The Covid-19 resilience journey of vulnerable young South Africans
Authors: Fouché Ansie , Cockcroft Kate , Theron Linda
Published: May 2024

Resilience, the ability to adapt well to adversity, is a critical factor in the well-being and success of young individuals. This study explored the multifaceted nature of resilience among South African youth challenged by COVID-related stressors and structural disadvantage. Specifically, this paper reports a follow-up qualitative leg of a sequential mixed-method design. Thirty-eight young adults (average age 24), all of whom reported high risk exposure but low depression symptoms, took part in semi-structured interviews to learn more about their resilience journey. Qualitative content analysis was employed to identify prominent themes. The study’s findings emphasize the dynamic nature of youth resilience, with individuals being buoyed by social network support (especially family); personal agency, structural support, and resource combinations. The qualitative findings contribute to the growing attention to the need for comprehensive policies and programs that recognize and enhance multisystemic sources of support, enabling young individuals to navigate challenges and thrive in their transition into adulthood.
Improving accuracy in predictions about future performance
Authors: Ruthig Joelle C. , Kroke Abigail M.
Published: May 2024

Within the academic context, students often expect to perform significantly better on an upcoming exam when compared to their actual performance. Unfortunately, students who are least accurate in their performance predictions are also the most at risk of being underprepared compared to their peers. Thus, efforts to enhance accuracy in performance predictions would benefit the student population that is most at risk of academic shortcomings and failure. Two studies examined whether incentives improve accuracy of academic performance predictions. In Study 1, 126 students in a 200-level undergraduate course provided estimates of how well they would perform on an upcoming exam. Two weeks later, the same students were randomly assigned to receive a reward incentive, punishment incentive, or no incentive for accuracy in performance predictions and their exam performance estimates were reassessed then compared to their actual scores on an exam completed one week later. In Study 2, 144 students from multiple 300-level courses provided performance predictions for an upcoming exam that were then compared to their actual exam scores for accuracy. For a subsequent exam, the same students were randomly assigned to varying levels of reward incentives (no incentive, modest incentive, large incentive) for prediction accuracy and their performance estimates were examined and compared to actual performance on a second exam. Findings from both studies indicated performance estimates are malleable and with the appropriate incentives, accuracy in predictions may be improved and contribute to better actual performance.
Fiber-Optic Bragg Grating Sensor for Photothermally Examinating Moisture of Meat
Authors: Xie Xiaodong , Song Enlai , Yuan Ziyu , Yin Yi , Zhang Yongkang , Yang Qiaochu , Xu Zhiyuan , Ran Yang
Published: May 2024

The illegal water injection into meat not only breaks the market equity, but also deteriorates the meat quality and produces harmful substances. In this work, we proposed a fiber Bragg grating (FBG) sensor that enabled fast, quantitative, and in-situ detection of the moisture content of water-injected meat. The FBG was written in the erbium-ytterbium (Er/Yb) co-doped fiber, which could perform the self-photothermal effect by injecting the near infrared laser into the fiber. As the heated fiber sensor probe was inserted into the meat sample, the temperature decreased due to the heat dissipation mediated by moisture. The intracore Bragg grating could monitor the temperature loss by recording the Bragg wavelength shift, which reflected the water content quantitatively. The results revealed that the sensor could complete the detection within 15 s. The sensor’s sensitivity to detect changes in the pork water content was theoretically calculated to be 0.090847%. The proposed sensor is expected to provide a novel approach for examination of the meat moisture.
A Review on Vibration Control of Multiple Cylinders Subjected to Flow-Induced Vibrations
Authors: Xu Wan-hai , Ma Ye-xuan
Published: May 2024

The fatigue damage caused by flow-induced vibration (FIV) is one of the major concerns for multiple cylindrical structures in many engineering applications. The FIV suppression is of great importance for the security of many cylindrical structures. Many active and passive control methods have been employed for the vibration suppression of an isolated cylinder undergoing vortex-induced vibrations (VIV). The FIV suppression methods are mainly extended to the multiple cylinders from the vibration control of the isolated cylinder. Due to the mutual interference between the multiple cylinders, the FIV mechanism is more complex than the VIV mechanism, which makes a great challenge for the FIV suppression. Some efforts have been devoted to vibration suppression of multiple cylinder systems undergoing FIV over the past two decades. The control methods, such as helical strakes, splitter plates, control rods and flexible sheets, are not always effective, depending on many influence factors, such as the spacing ratio, the arrangement geometrical shape, the flow velocity and the parameters of the vibration control devices. The FIV response, hydrodynamic features and wake patterns of the multiple cylinders equipped with vibration control devices are reviewed and summarized. The FIV suppression efficiency of the vibration control methods are analyzed and compared considering different influence factors. Further research on the FIV suppression of multiple cylinders is suggested to provide insight for the development of FIV control methods and promote engineering applications of FIV control methods.
Genetic Algorithm Optimization with Selection Operator Decider
Authors: Meniz Büşra , Tiryaki Fatma
Published: May 2024

Genetic Algorithm (GA) is a powerful and flexible meta-heuristic tool to deal with the complexity of optimization problems, as they are directly related to real-life situations. The primary goal of an optimization problem could be to obtain a solution with less effort and near-optimal rather than slow, improbable optimal. GAs serve this purpose by broadly exploring the possible solution space and using genetic operators. The performance of GAs can vary significantly depending on the genetic operators. Although each operator type has upsides and downsides, the selection operator greatly influences the GA’s performance. Conventional GAs initialize with predetermined genetic operators and continue with the same throughout all iterations. In this paper, dynamically adjusting the selection operators to the current progress of the iteration will be shown to be a crucial strategy to improve the performance of the GA. This study aims to propose a novel GA capable of harnessing multiple selection operators by a self-deciding operator structure, which is more advantageous at the current iteration. For this, Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS), which is known as a simple and effective multi-criteria decision-making method, will be integrated into the GA by a proposed dynamic decision matrix. The proposed Selection Operator Decider Genetic Algorithm (SODGA) has unique properties with varying selection processes and is capable of using TOPSIS as a decider of the operator inside the iterations. The effectiveness of the presented SODGA framework will be analyzed by a Capacitated Vehicle Routing Problems (CVRPs) benchmark set.
Return of the organism? The concept in plant biology, now and then
Authors: Yilmaz Özlem
Published: May 2024

This essay argues for the importance of an organismic perspective in plant biology and considers some of its implications. These include an increased attention to plant-environment interaction and an emphasis on integrated approaches. Furthermore, this essay contextualizes the increased emphasis on the concept of organism in recent years and places the concept in a longer history. Recent developments in biology and worsening environmental crises have led researchers to study plant responses to changing environments with whole plant approaches that situate plants in their environments, emphasizing the intricate and dynamic interaction between them. This renewed attention to the organism recalls the debates of the early twentieth century, when organicism was one of the three main frameworks in biology (along with vitalism and mechanism). Some scholars see this renewed importance today as a “return” of this earlier period. This essay argues that including insights from plant biology will benefit philosophy of biology research that examines the concept of organism and organicism now and in earlier periods. A comprehensive account of the concept of organism should involve a botanical conception of the organism as well as a zoological one (which is more frequently considered). Although this essay does not aim to present a conceptual analysis, it presents examples of how an organismic perspective can be useful for understanding concepts (such as phenotype, stress, etc.) and research processes (such as experiment set-ups, data processes, etc.) in plant biology. Philosophy of biology investigations that aim at a comprehensive understanding of the concept of organism can benefit greatly from examinations of cases in plant biology, both now and in the past.
Nondestructive testing on concrete-based treated wastewater
Authors: ElGazzar Moemn , Elnemr Amr , Tayeh Bassam A.
Published: May 2024

Recycled wastewater in construction presents an opportunity to ease freshwater scarcity while advancing sustainability. This study investigated the influences of cement-type and treated wastewater source on setting time and mechanical properties of cement paste and mortar. Three cement types: ordinary Portland cement (CEM I), CEM III/A, and CEM IV/A-P, were encountered. Four plants treated wastewater versus potable water as control were included. Fifteen mixes were encountered; every 5 mixes addressed certain cement types along with specified treated water types. Two phases were designed: Phase I for pastes toe value setting time and Phase II for the mortar to evaluate the flexural and compressive strengths of tool 90 specimens, 6 at 2 and 28 days of age. The significant impact of both variables was observed. CEM III/A displayed the fastest setting among the other mixes, while CEM I was the slowest. Wastewater accelerated setting versus distilled water. The mechanical performance also varied based on the cement–wastewater combination. CEM IV/A-P provided optimal strength enhancement up to 50% in flexural and 35% in compressive strength with wastewater compared to CEM I control. Results were attributed to cement–water interactions influencing hydration and microstructure, while CEM I underperformed with wastewater, CEM III/A, and CEM IV/A-P benefits, especially at early ages. Considerable variability highlights the complex interplay of factors governing performance. Coupled chemical-microstructural analysis was recommended to elucidate underlying mechanisms. Overall, tailored cement–wastewater selection shows promise for sustainable concrete, pending further optimization and durability testing. The study provides a platform for context-specific development of eco-efficient construction materials utilizing locally available resources.
Kleine Spuren der Geschichte
Authors: Hegel Philipp
Published: May 2024

Ausgehend von zwei Konzepten der hermeneutischen Tradition, der Parallelstellenmethode und dem von Dilthey so genannten »Lebenshorizont«, wird zunächst deren mögliche Verbindung im Kontext philologischen Arbeitens skizziert. Aufgegriffen werden dabei insbesondere Problematisierungen der Parallelstellenmethode im Zusammenhang mit literarischen Texten. Die Methode kann aber genutzt werden, um Hypothesen über Textstellen zu erzeugen oder zu überprüfen. Sie kann auch genutzt werden, um Hypothesen über die Verbreitung von Themenfeldern innerhalb eines Korpus zu erzeugen oder zu überprüfen und so ein Mittel bei der Rekonstruktion von Lebenshorizonten sein. Abschließend werden diese hermeneutische Methode und dieser hermeneutische Begriff im Rahmen einer rhetorischen Analyse einiger Stellen aus zwei Konvoluten des Koblenzer Liebesbriefarchivs angewendet. Aufgezeigt werden dabei Möglichkeiten und Grenzen, Briefe mit Parallelen innerhalb und außerhalb des jeweiligen Konvolutes zu erläutern. Überschneidungen können so auf thematische Bündelungen und Streuungen einer bestimmten Zeit hindeuten. Gezeigt werden soll ferner, dass auch unterschiedliche rhetorische Verfahren in alltäglicher Kommunikation Hinweise auf in mehreren Teilen des Korpus angesprochene Themenfelder geben können, zu denen die Schreibenden sich meinen verhalten zu müssen.
Collaboration in Decarbonisation Research: Comparing the UK and European Funding Landscape
Authors: Smith Matthew , Christopoulos Dimitris
Published: May 2024

Industrial decarbonisation has become an increasingly important policy issue in recent years, as governments and nations aim to tackle the climate crisis. This study makes use of UK research council and Horizon 2020 data to map the research landscape for industrial decarbonisation. This includes an analysis of 435 projects funded by various UK research councils, and 239 projects funded under Horizon 2020 linked to industrial decarbonisation. This study finds in the UK case, University–Industry–Government links are critical elements of the decarbonisation research landscape. Universities playing key roles in the UK system are often members of the prestigious Russell Group. In the case of the European industrial decarbonisation landscape (as captured by projects funded under Horizon 2020), private firms play a crucial role. This study also maps a country-to-country collaboration network based on industrial decarbonisation research projects funded under Horizon 2020. This study examines the link between country position in the network and share of electricity consumption that comes from coal; no significant relationship is identified.
Coastal Flood Induced Salinity Intrusion Risk Assessment Using a Spatial Multi-criteria Approach in the South-Western Bangladesh
Authors: Akter Tahmina , Hoque Muhammad Al-Amin , Mukul Sharif A. , Pradhan Biswajeet
Published: May 2024

Bangladesh is extremely vulnerable to sea-level rise and other climate-induced extreme events, such as flooding, storm surge, and salinity intrusion. The south-western coastal region of Bangladesh is particularly vulnerable to salinity intrusion caused by cyclone induced storm surges and coastal floods. Salinity intrusion endanger land productivity by increasing both soil and surface water salinity. Detailed risk assessment using spatial mapping approach can contribute to mitigating the effects of salinity intrusion on natural capital and the environment. In this study, we established and evaluated a spatial multi-criteria approach for mapping the risk levels of areas to salinity intrusion impacts using field data and geospatial techniques at the local scale. We evaluated the viability of the proposed approach using Khulna District, a major coastal city and saline prone area in the south-western Bangladesh. We considered three risk components (i.e. vulnerability, exposure and hazard) with 16 relevant criteria for the study. For each criterion, an Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) was used to build and weight spatial raster map layers. Individual maps for each risk component were generated using a weighted sum technique, and lastly, a risk map was created by combining those. Our generated maps correctly identified relevant spatial dimensions as well as risk levels (i.e. very-high to very-low). The outcomes of our study suggest that the southern (east and west) parts of the study area are mostly susceptible to salinity intrusion due to higher storm surge impacts, lower elevation, and land use patterns than other parts. We validate our findings using a qualitative and quantitative approach. We believe that this novel approach would be useful to create risk maps that policymakers and relevant stakeholders could potentially use to evaluate risks posed by flood induced salinity intrusion in coastal regions of Bangladesh and elsewhere with similar geo-climatic context.
Use of antibiotics for urinary tract infections up to and after care home admission in Denmark: a nationwide study
Authors: Bjørk Emma , Aabenhus Rune , Larsen Søren P. , Ryg Jesper , Henriksen Daniel P. , Lundby Carina , Pottegård Anton
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Older people have the highest use of antibiotics for acute and chronic urinary tract infection (UTI), despite diagnostic uncertainty and the growing problem of antibiotic resistance. We aim to describe use-patterns of UTI antibiotics two years prior to and following care home admission in Denmark.

Methods

This was a register-based nationwide drug-utilization study. In a cohort comprising all Danish residents admitted into a care home from 2015 to 2021, we described the use of UTI antibiotics, and examined differences between regions and individual care homes in rates of UTI antibiotic use. Further, we described trends in UTI-related contacts with hospitals in the two years prior to and following care home admission.

Results

The cohort comprised 101,297 residents (61% female; median age 84 years). UTI antibiotic use doubled from 7 to 14 treatments/100 residents/month two months prior to care home admission and remained at 10 treatments/100 residents/month the following two years. Prescription of pivmecillinam (55%) was most common. Primary care practitioners prescribed the majority (92%) of UTI antibiotics. UTI-related hospital contacts peaked at two months prior to care home admission, with 6 admissions/100 residents/month, subsequently dropping to 2 admission/100 residents/month. We found considerable variation in UTI antibiotic use, with 10% of care homes responsible for 20% of treatments in 2021.

Conclusion

Use of UTI antibiotics increased prior to and remained at a stable high level following care home admission in Denmark. Despite variation in use across regions and individual care homes, an overall decrease was seen throughout the years 2016–2021.