bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Groundwater mapping and locally engaged water governance in a small island terrain: Case study of Karainagar island, Northern Sri Lanka
Authors: Karthiga Inthirakumaran , Rameshwaran Ponnambalam , Ketheesan Balachandran , Sriskandarajah Nadarajah
Published: July 2023

Groundwater is a vital resource under threat in island communities. Karainagar, a 22 km2island, is one of seven islands off the coast of Jaffna in Northern Sri Lanka, with its population of just about 11,000 persons, experiences seasonal water shortage, and salinity in groundwater as twin threats impacting on their lives. This paper reports on a 3‐year study (October 2019 to September 2022) to map groundwater dynamics of Karainagar island spatially and seasonally and discusses the patterns revealed in terms of community needs, policy implications, and governance ideas that could already be considered by relevant authorities and citizens jointly. Thirty‐six dug wells used for drinking, domestic, agricultural, and public purposes were selected, and water level, salinity, and pH changes recorded along with daily rainfall. This paper offers a thorough description of the geography, land use, distribution of wells, and water bodies, followed by discussion of the current status of the groundwater in Karainagar island. Year‐to‐year differences in rainfall pattern resulted in different rates of change and range in water level with a corresponding reverse pattern seen in salinity with some exceptions across the island. Cumulative rainfall required to reach full capacity of wells ranged from 652 to 892 mm over the 3 years with an average figure of 739 mm of rain. This implies that any further rainfall during early phase of the main rainy season is potential surface water for storage and runoff. Practices such as unregulated pumping and construction of tube wells are argued to be contributing to increase in salinity levels with health implications for residents. A participatory governance approach that overcomes limitations of the existing institutional approach is proposed. Its success based on broad stakeholder engagement, improved equity, and transparency when supported by adequate policies and village level aquifer monitoring will enable sustainability of groundwater resources in Karainagar.
Explicit reconstruction of the entanglement wedge via the Petz map
Authors: Bahiru Eyoab , Vardian Niloofar
Published: July 2023

Abstract

We revisit entanglement wedge reconstruction in AdS/CFT using the Petz recovery channel. In the case of a spherical region on the boundary, we show that the Petz map reproduces the AdS-Rindler HKLL reconstruction. Moreover, for a generic subregion of the boundary, we could obtain the same boundary representation of a local bulk field lies in the entanglement wedge as the one proposed earlier in [1, 2] using properties of the modular flow.
Affine algebras at infinite distance limits in the Heterotic String
Authors: Collazuol Veronica , Graña Mariana , Herráez Alvaro , De Freitas Héctor Parra
Published: July 2023

Abstract

We analyze the boundaries of the moduli spaces of compactifications of the heterotic string on Td, making particular emphasis on d = 2 and its F-theory dual. We compute the OPE algebras as we approach all the infinite distance limits that correspond to (possibly partial) decompactification limits in some dual frame. When decompactifying k directions, we find infinite towers of states becoming light that enhance the algebra arising at a given point in the moduli space of the Td−k compactification to its k-loop version, where the central extensions are given by the k KK vectors. For T2 compactifications, we reproduce all the affine algebras that arise in the F-theory dual, and show all the towers explicitly, including some that are not manifest in the F-theory counterparts. Furthermore, we construct the affine SO(32) algebra arising in the full decompactification limit, both in the heterotic and in the F-theory sides, showing that not only affine algebras of exceptional type arise in the latter.
Hydro & thermo dynamics at causal boundaries, examples in 3d gravity
Authors: Adami H. , Parvizi A. , Sheikh-Jabbari M. M. , Taghiloo V. , Yavartanoo H.
Published: July 2023

Abstract

We study 3-dimensional gravity on a spacetime bounded by a generic 2-dimensional causal surface. We review the solution phase space specified by 4 generic functions over the causal boundary, construct the symplectic form over the solution space and the 4 boundary charges and their algebra. The boundary charges label boundary degrees of freedom. Three of these charges extend and generalize the Brown-York charges to the generic causal boundary, are canonical conjugates of boundary metric components and naturally give rise to a fluid description at the causal boundary. Moreover, we show that the boundary charges besides the causal boundary hydrodynamic description, also admit a thermodynamic description with a natural (geometric) causal boundary temperature and angular velocity. When the causal boundary is the asymptotic boundary of the 3d AdS or flat space, the hydrodynamic description respectively recovers an extension of the known conformal or conformal-Carrollian asymptotic hydrodynamics. When the causal boundary is a generic null surface, we recover the null surface thermodynamics of [1] which is an extension of the usual black hole thermodynamics description.
Development and external validation of a prediction model for the transition from mild to moderate or severe form of COVID-19
Authors: Zysman Maéva , Asselineau Julien , Saut Olivier , Frison Eric , Oranger Mathilde , Maurac Arnaud , Charriot Jeremy , Achkir Rkia , Regueme Sophie , Klein Emilie , Bommart Sébastien , Bourdin Arnaud , Dournes Gael , Casteigt Julien , Blum Alain , Ferretti Gilbert , Degano Bruno , Thiébaut Rodolphe , Chabot Francois , Berger Patrick , Laurent Francois , Benlala Ilyes
Published: July 2023

Objectives

COVID-19 pandemic seems to be under control. However, despite the vaccines, 5 to 10% of the patients with mild disease develop moderate to critical forms with potential lethal evolution. In addition to assess lung infection spread, chest CT helps to detect complications. Developing a prediction model to identify at-risk patients of worsening from mild COVID-19 combining simple clinical and biological parameters with qualitative or quantitative data using CT would be relevant to organizing optimal patient management.

Methods

Four French hospitals were used for model training and internal validation. External validation was conducted in two independent hospitals. We used easy-to-obtain clinical (age, gender, smoking, symptoms’ onset, cardiovascular comorbidities, diabetes, chronic respiratory diseases, immunosuppression) and biological parameters (lymphocytes, CRP) with qualitative or quantitative data (including radiomics) from the initial CT in mild COVID-19 patients.

Results

Qualitative CT scan with clinical and biological parameters can predict which patients with an initial mild presentation would develop a moderate to critical form of COVID-19, with a c-index of 0.70 (95% CI 0.63; 0.77). CT scan quantification improved the performance of the prediction up to 0.73 (95% CI 0.67; 0.79) and radiomics up to 0.77 (95% CI 0.71; 0.83). Results were similar in both validation cohorts, considering CT scans with or without injection.

Conclusion

Adding CT scan quantification or radiomics to simple clinical and biological parameters can better predict which patients with an initial mild COVID-19 would worsen than qualitative analyses alone. This tool could help to the fair use of healthcare resources and to screen patients for potential new drugs to prevent a pejorative evolution of COVID-19.

Clinical Trial Registration

NCT04481620.

Clinical relevance statement

CT scan quantification or radiomics analysis is superior to qualitative analysis, when used with simple clinical and biological parameters, to determine which patients with an initial mild presentation of COVID-19 would worsen to a moderate to critical form.

Key Points

• Qualitative CT scan analyses with simple clinical and biological parameters can predict which patients with an initial mild COVID-19 and respiratory symptoms would worsen with a c-index of 0.70.

• Adding CT scan quantification improves the performance of the clinical prediction model to an AUC of 0.73.

• Radiomics analyses slightly improve the performance of the model to a c-index of 0.77.
TRI-SCORE is superior to EuroSCORE II and STS-Score in mortality prediction following transcatheter edge-to-edge tricuspid valve repair
Authors: Gröger Matthias , Friedl Sophia , Ouerghemmi Dhia , Tadic Marijana , Bruß Elene , Felbel Dominik , Paukovitsch Michael , Schneider Leonhard M. , Dahme Tillman , Rottbauer Wolfgang , Markovic Sinisa , Keßler Mirjam
Published: July 2023

Background

The development of transcatheter tricuspid edge-to-edge repair for tricuspid regurgitation is a therapeutic milestone but a specific periprocedural risk assessment tool is lacking. TRI-SCORE has recently been introduced as a dedicated risk score for tricuspid valve surgery.

Aims

This study analyzes the predictive performance of TRI-SCORE following transcatheter edge-to-edge tricuspid valve repair.

Methods

180 patients who underwent transcatheter tricuspid valve repair at Ulm University Hospital were consecutively included and stratified into three TRI-SCORE risk groups. The predictive performance of TRI-SCORE was assessed throughout a follow-up period of 30 days and up to 1 year.

Results

All patients had severe tricuspid regurgitation. Median EuroSCORE II was 6.4% (IQR 3.8–10.1%), median STS-Score 8.1% (IQR 4.6–13.4%) and median TRI-SCORE 6.0 (IQR 4.0–7.0). 64 patients (35.6%) were in the low TRI-SCORE group, 91 (50.6%) in the intermediate and 25 (13.9%) in the high-risk groups. The procedural success rate was 97.8%. 30-day mortality was 0% in the low-risk group, 1.3% in the intermediate-risk and 17.4% in the high-risk groups (p < 0.001). During a median follow-up of 168 days mortality was 0%, 3.8% and 52.2%, respectively (p < 0.001). The predictive performance of TRI-SCORE was excellent (AUC for 30-day mortality: 90.3%, for one-year mortality: 93.1%) and superior to EuroSCORE II (AUC 56.6% and 64.4%, respectively) and STS-Score (AUC 61.0% and 59.0%, respectively).

Conclusion

TRI-SCORE is a valuable tool for prediction of mortality after transcatheter edge-to-edge tricuspid valve repair and its performance is superior to EuroSCORE II and STS-Score.

Graphical abstract
Whole Genome Sequencing in Advanced Lung Cancer can be Performed Using Diff-Quik Cytology Smears Derived from Endobronchial Ultrasound, Transbronchial Needle Aspiration (EBUS TBNA)
Authors: Fielding David , Dalley Andrew J. , Singh Mahendra , Nandakumar Lakshmy , Lakis Vanessa , Chittoory Haarika , Fairbairn David , Ferguson Kaltin , Bashirzadeh Farzad , Bint Michael , Pahoff Carl , Son Jung Hwa , Hodgson Alan , Pearson John V. , Waddell Nicola , Lakhani Sunil R. , Hartel Gunter , Nones Katia , Simpson Peter T.
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Maximising alternative sample types for genomics in advanced lung cancer is important because bronchoscopic samples may sometimes be insufficient for this purpose. Further, the clinical applications of comprehensive molecular analysis such as whole genome sequencing (WGS) are rapidly developing. Diff-Quik cytology smears from EBUS TBNA is an alternative source of DNA, but its feasibility for WGS has not been previously demonstrated.

Methods

Diff-Quik smears were collected along with research cell pellets.

Results

Tumour content of smears were compared to research cell pellets from 42 patients, which showed good correlation (Spearman correlation 0.85, P < 0.0001). A subset of eight smears underwent WGS, which presented similar mutation profiles to WGS of the matched cell pellet. DNA yield was predicted using a regression equation of the smears cytology features, which correctly predicted DNA yield > 1500 ng in 7 out of 8 smears.

Conclusions

WGS of commonly collected Diff-Quik slides is feasible and their DNA yield can be predicted.
Comparison of definitions of coronary artery reference sizes and effects on stent selection and evaluation of stent expansion
Authors: Andreasen Lene Nyhus , Christiansen Evald Høj , Mogensen Lone Juul Hune , Holm Niels Ramsing
Published: July 2023

Accurate determination of coronary reference size is essential for optimal stent selection and evaluation of stent expansion during percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Several approaches for reference size estimation have been published with no universal agreement. The aim of this study was to investigate if potential differences in coronary reference size estimation lead to differences in stent and balloon selection and in detection of stent under expansion. Definitions for coronary reference size estimation, stent size selection, and stent expansion were identified in 17 randomized controlled trials. The identified methods were applied in a population of 32 clinical cases. Reference size estimates ranged up to 1.35mm, and indicated nominal stent size ranged up to 1.0 mm in the same case depending on method. Mean relative stent expansion ranged from 54±12% to mean 100±29% depending on the applied reference method. Choice of method for reference size estimation using intravascular imaging may influence stent selection and greatly affects evaluation of post-PCI stent expansion.
Pearls and Pitfalls of Isolating Rat OPCs for In Vitro Culture with Different Methods
Authors: Janowska Justyna , Gargas Justyna , Sypecka Joanna
Published: July 2023

There are several in vitro models to study the biology of oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs). The use of models based on induced pluripotent stem cells or oligodendrocyte-like cell lines has many advantages but raises significant questions, such as inaccurate reproduction of neural tissue or genetic instability. Moreover, in a specific case of studying the biology of neonatal OPCs, it is particularly difficult to find good representative model, due to the unique metabolism and features of these cells, as well as neonatal brain tissue. The following study evaluates two methods of isolating OPCs from rat pups as a model for in vitro studies. The first protocol is a modification of the classical mixed glial culture with series of shakings applied to isolate the fraction of OPCs. The second protocol is based on direct cell sorting and uses magnetic microbeads that target the surface antigen of the oligodendrocyte progenitor cell—A2B5. We compared the performance of these methods and analyzed the purity of obtained cultures as well as oligodendrocyte differentiation. Although the yield of OPCs collected with these two methods is similar, both have their advantages and disadvantages. The OPCs obtained with both methods give rise to mature oligodendrocytes within a few days of culture in ITS-supplemented serum-free medium and a 5% O2 atmosphere (mimicking the endogenous oxygen conditions of the nervous tissue).

Graphical Abstract

Methods for isolating rat OPCs In the following study we compared methods for isolating neonatal rat oligodendrocyte progenitor cells, for the studies on the in vitro model of neonatal brain injuries. We evaluated the purity of obtained cell cultures and the ability to maturate in physiological normoxia and serum-free culture medium.
Early hatchery protocols for tetrasporogenesis of the antimethanogenic seaweed Asparagopsis armata
Authors: Mihaila Alisa A. , Lawton Rebecca J. , Glasson Christopher R. K. , Magnusson Marie
Published: July 2023

The red alga Asparagopsis armata is an emerging aquaculture-target species due to its application as an antimethanogenic feed ingredient in ruminants, yet information on A. armata reproduction and cultivation is currently lacking. We therefore quantified the effects of temperature, irradiance, nutrients, and photoperiod, and addition of plant growth regulators (PGRs; indole-3-acetic acid, abscisic acid, 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid) on tetrasporogenesis in domesticated A. armata that had been maintained under controlled conditions (18 °C, 12 h light:12 h dark photoperiod) for 18 months prior to experimentation. Tetrasporogenesis was only induced at 5 and 15 µmol photons m−2 s−1 under an 8 h light:16 h dark photoperiod with 3.5 mg nitrogen L−1 and tetraspore release was 28-fold greater at 18 °C compared to 15 °C after 28 days of exposure. After 29 days, tetraspore release and germination rate both declined. All PGR treatments prevented tetrasporogenesis. This study is the first to provide the detail and framework necessary to enable A. armata hatchery development. We conclude that tetrasporogenesis was most likely induced in response to a significant reduction in photoperiod rather than as a result of replicating seasonal environmental conditions, and that temperature played a key role in determining reproductive output. With overall higher tetraspore release and a consistent germination rate of > 90%, we recommend exposing tetrasporophyte biomass to 18 °C, 15 µmol photons m−2 s−1 and 3.5 mg nitrogen L−1 under an 8 h L:16 h D photoperiod for up to 29 days to obtain a reliable supply of tetraspores for seeding onto ropes for transfer to the hatchery phase.
The impact of COVID-19 on online music listening behaviors in light of listeners’ social interactions
Authors: Ghaffari Mona , Khan Gohar F. , Singh Shivendu Pratap , Ferwerda Bruce
Published: July 2023

This study investigated the global changes in online music listening behaviors in response to COVID-19 and its restrictions (such as quarantine, school and workplace closures, and travel restrictions). In addition, the research included an examination of how friendship networks and online communication motives have moderated the effect of COVID-19 on music listening behaviors. The causal inference methods: difference in differences (DiD) and two-way fixed effects (TWFE), were conducted to analyze the online music listening behaviors and social interactions of 37,328 Last.fm users in 45 countries before and after the first wave of confinement. It was found that in response to COVID-19, the quantity, variety, and novelty of music consumption decreased, shifting toward mainstream artists, whereas individuals with more online social connections and communications showed the reverse behavior. Our research shows that online social interactions and community development significantly impact listeners’ behaviors and can be used as a guide to developing new design strategies for digital media, such as music, movies, and games.
Government externalities
Authors: Trantidis Aris
Published: July 2023

Governments are expected to tackle externalities such as pollution, epidemics and environmental catastrophes, but whether and how governments themselves generate externalities is a question equally important for exploring socially beneficial policies and institutional reforms. The problem with defining government externalities is that governments, through regulation and distribution, inevitably allocate costs and benefits asymmetrically due to preference heterogeneity in society. This problem also concerns the rules and rights governing market transactions, blurring the boundaries between market failure and government failure. In this paper, I define government externalities as costs passed on us by government actions taken outside a decision-making system in which we participate as insiders. Views about what being an insider is differ. Some will be content with democratic citizenship in majoritarian decision-making processes. Others may subscribe to Buchanan and Tullock’s liberal and more demanding normative theory based on constitutional consent. In either case, I argue, there will be externalities generated by clientelism, namely informal deals between politicians and special interests for the distribution of benefits that occur outside, and in violation of, the formal norms of participation. These are complex externalities, infiltrating policymaking and distorting institutions governing the operation of markets too. They create government failure on the same grounds that some market externalities are considered market failure: (a) the costs fall on outsiders and (b) negatively affect the terms for the production and exchange of goods and services. Government externalities influence both governance and markets simultaneously and illustrate the limits of what institutional design can constrain or achieve.
Nudging Voters and Encouraging Pre-commitment: Beyond Mandatory Turnout
Authors: Pedersen Viki M. L. , Thaysen Jens Damgaard , Albertsen Andreas
Published: July 2023

The discussion on mandatory turnout, which controversially introduces coercion at the heart of the electoral process, illustrates a dilemma between increasing voter turnout on the one hand and avoiding coercion on the other. If successful, a recent proposal by Elliott solves this dilemma as it removes the compulsory element of mandatory turnout. Specifically, Elliot reinterprets the policy’s purpose as (a) a pre-commitment device for those who believe that they have a duty to vote and (b) a nudge to the surveillance of politics for those who do not believe this. We critically evaluate Elliott’s novel intervention in the debate and argue that it is ultimately unsuccessful. Mandatory turnout can be interpreted as neither a pre-commitment device nor a nudge. Moreover, we present a more promising and novel solution to the dilemma: a genuine state-administered pre-commitment device with respect to voting that also nudges citizens to vote and seems prima facie attractive.
Bioavailability of bioactive phytochemicals in selected tissues and excreta from goats fed hempseed cake (Cannabis sativa L.) finisher diets
Authors: Semwogerere Farouk , Chikwanha Obert C. , Katiyatiya Chenaimoyo L. F. , Marufu Munyaradzi C. , Mapiye Cletos
Published: July 2023

Hempseeds are rich in bioactive phytochemicals,
yet little is known about their bioavailability in tissues and excreta of animals fed hemp seed cake. The study evaluated the bioactive phytochemicals and their antioxidant activity in the blood, liver, meat, feces, and urine from goats fed finishing diets containing graded inclusions of hempseed cake (HSC). Twenty-five wether goats (26.8 ± 2.9 kg) of 4–5 months were randomly allocated to five experimental diets containing increasing levels of HSC (0, 25, 50, 75, 100 g/kg DM) substituted for soybean meal (SBM) as the main protein source. Goats were allowed for period of 21 days for adaptation, and blood, fecal, and urine samples were collected on the 28th day of the experiment. The liver and right longissimus thoracis et lumborum were respectively collected at 60 min and 24 h after slaughter. Linear increases (P ≤ 0.05) in blood, liver, and urine magnesium; fecal manganese; and fecal copper were observed with increasing HSC inclusion in the diet. Liver and fecal selenium exhibited a decreasing linear trend (P ≤ 0.05) with HSC increment in diets. Diet did not affect (P > 0.05) meat and urine mineral contents, except urine magnesium. The 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, and 2,2′-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) of the blood, liver, and meat linearly increased (P ≤ 0.05) with dietary inclusion of HSC. Blood and liver ferric reducing antioxidant power quadratically increased (P ≤ 0.05) with HSC inclusion reaching a maximum at 50 g/kg dry matter. Current results suggest that inclusion of HSC up to 100 g/kg substituting SBM in goat diets can improve bioavailability of bioactive phytochemicals in the blood, liver, and meat.
Plastic impurities in biowaste treatment: environmental and economic life cycle assessment of a composting plant
Authors: Bottausci Sara , Magrini Chiara , Tuci Giulia Adele , Bonoli Alessandra
Published: July 2023

The study focuses on an Italian composting plant and aims to investigate the impact of the presence of plastic impurities in the collected biowaste on the environmental and economic performance of the plant. The study is divided into two main steps: firstly, a material flow analysis was conducted to quantify the number of impurities (e.g., conventional plastics and compostable plastics) before and after the composting process. Secondly, a life cycle assessment (LCA) and a complementary life cycle costing (LCC) of the composting process were conducted. The results of the material flow analysis confirmed the initial assumption that conventional plastic remains almost constant before and after the composting treatment, while compostable plastic almost disappears. As far as the life cycle analyses are concerned, the most environmentally damaging phases of the process were the shredding and mixing phases, while the operating costs (OPEX) contributed the most to the total annual costs of the company. Finally, a further scenario analysis was performed, assuming that the plastic contaminants in the treated biowaste consisted exclusively of compostable plastics. The comparison with this ideal scenario can support decision-makers to understand the potential improvements achievable by addressing the presence of plastic impurities in the biowaste. The results show that the treatment of plastic impurities causes relevant environmental and economic impacts, being responsible for 46% of the total waste to treat at the end of the process, almost 7% of the total annual costs covered by the plant owners, and about 30% of all negative externalities.
Deprescribing in cardiometabolic conditions in older patients: a systematic review
Authors: Hickman Elizabeth , Seawoodharry Mansha , Gillies Clare , Khunti Kamlesh , Seidu Samuel
Published: July 2023

We conduct a systematic review to investigate current deprescribing practices and evaluate outcomes and adverse events with deprescribing of preventive medications in older patients with either an end-of-life designation or residing in long-term care facilities with cardiometabolic conditions. Studies were identified using a literature search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, clinicaltrials.gov.uk, CINAHLS, and the Cochrane Register from inception to March 2022. Studies reviewed included observational studies and randomised control trials (RCTs). Data was extracted on baseline characteristics, deprescribing rates, adverse events and outcomes, and quality of life indicators, and was discussed using a narrative approach. Thirteen studies were identified for inclusion. Deprescribing approaches included complete withdrawal, dose reduction or tapering, or switching to an alternative medication, for at least one preventive medication. Deprescribing success rates ranged from 27 to 94.7%. The studies reported no significant changes in laboratory values or adverse outcomes but did find mixed outcomes for hospitalisations and a slight increase in mortality rates when comparing the intervention and control groups. Lack of good-quality randomised control trials suggests that deprescribing in the older population residing in long-term care facilities with cardiometabolic conditions and multimorbidity is feasible when controlled and regularly monitored by an appropriate healthcare clinician, and that the benefits outweigh the potential harm in this cohort of patients. Due to the limited evidence and the heterogeneity of studies, a meta-analysis was not performed and as such further research is required to assess the benefits of deprescribing in this patient population. Systematic review registration: PROSPERO CRD42021291061.
Particle size effects on the axial pull-out and push-in behaviour of roots
Authors: Zhang Xingyu , Ciantia Matteo Oryem , Knappett Jonathan Adam , Leung Anthony Kwan , Liang Teng
Published: July 2023

For smaller plant roots in coarse-grained soils, large relative size of soil particles compared to roots can affect their axial resistance. Even for the larger roots of trees, particle size effects may be important, e.g. when testing 1:N scale models of tree uprooting in a geotechnical centrifuge. In this study the distinct element method (DEM) was used to investigate this problem. The sinker root of a centrifuge model tree root system under axial loading was analysed, with its simulated behaviour compared with finite element method (FEM) simulations, where the soil was modelled as a continuum and hence did not incorporate particle size effects. Both were validated against laboratory tests. Considering the same prototype size and soil particle size distribution, different scale factors/g-levels were applied to model roots, hence varying the ratio of root diameter ($${d}_{\rm r}$$

d
r

) to mean particle size ($${D}_{50}$$

D
50

). Even at the lower $${d}_{\rm r}/{D}_{50}$$

d
r

/

D
50

values investigated (6–21), particle size effects on end-bearing capacity were negligible upon push-in of the root. In contrast, effects on shaft resistance (for pull-out) were significant and were interpreted by a simplified analytical model developed in this study using a combination of cavity expansion and root-particle size ratio. The absolute size of the root analogues considered was also representative of small diameter roots present in other plant species at 1:1 scale, making the analytical model also applicable to crop-lodging problems and for defining input parameters for analyses of nature-based solutions (NBS) using vegetation (e.g. for slope stabilisation).
Social Milieus and Social Integration. From Theoretical Considerations to an Empirical Model
Authors: Groh-Samberg Olaf , Schröder Tim , Speer Anne
Published: July 2023

Current debates on threats to social integration in times of multiple crises call for a better understanding of the relationship between socioeconomic inequality and sociocultural value conflicts. The aim of this article is to (re)introduce the concept of social milieus as a promising approach to capture the complexity of this relationship at the group level. We offer a theoretical extension of the concept of social milieus, which has so far been limited to the German discourse, by linking it to the international debate on sociocultural “cleavages” and cultural value conflicts. Social milieus are defined as large latent groups with similar socioeconomic positions and cultural values. Accordingly, they develop milieu-specific forms of social integration in potentially conflictual demarcation from other milieus. This conceptualization offers a theoretical framework for analyzing social integration from the perspective of social groups in terms of social integration within social milieus and relationships between milieus. In order to illustrate the capabilities of this theoretical approach, we develop a first empirical model of social milieus in Germany based on a Latent Class Analysis of socioeconomic indicators and Schwartz’ basic human values. With this theoretical concept and empirical model, we put social milieus on the international research agenda for the analysis of social integration within and between social groups.
Unemployment and Social Integration: Analysing the Impact of Financial Strain, Social Roles, and Identity
Authors: Giustozzi Carlotta
Published: July 2023

Relations to family and friends are a key dimension of an individual’s social integration and, by extension, are crucial for the social cohesion of societies. Based on that principle, this study explores the effects of unemployment on close personal relations and asks whether negative effects of unemployment are primarily explicable as financial losses or social aspects of identity. This analytical approach goes beyond analysing the direct effects of unemployment through differentiating effects by gender, household composition, and individual work and family values. In doing so, it examines the channels through which unemployment has the potential to erode social relations.

Individual fixed effects models based on German Socio-Economic Panel (SOEP) data from 1990 to 2017 reveal that financial strain fails to explain the effects of unemployment on social relations. However, the results suggest that social identity is influential in shaping unemployment effects. Although men see a reduction in their personal relations when experiencing unemployment, women’s unemployment experiences do not affect the frequency of their social interactions. Moreover, the fact that unemployment leads to a reduction of men’s social contacts, particularly among those living with children, points to potential difficulties in performing the social role of the family provider. Finally, placing high importance on having children, partnership and caring for others mitigates negative unemployment effects for men.
Barriers to Implementing the Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative End-Stage Kidney Disease Life Plan Guideline
Authors: Keller Michelle S. , Mavilian Christine , Altom Keaton L. , Erickson Kevin F. , Drudi Laura M. , Woo Karen
Published: July 2023

Objective

The updated 2019 National Kidney Foundation Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative vascular access guidelines recommend patient-centered, multi-disciplinary construction and regular update of an individualized end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) Life-Plan (LP) for each patient, a dramatic shift from previous recommendations and policy. The objective of this study was to examine barriers and facilitators to implementing the LP among key stakeholders.

Methods

Semi-structured individual interviews were analyzed using inductive and deductive coding. Codes were mapped to relevant domains in the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR).

Results

We interviewed 34 participants: 11 patients with end-stage kidney disease, 2 care partners, and 21 clinicians who care for patients with end-stage kidney disease. In both the clinician and the patient/care partner categories, saturation (where no new themes were identified) was reached at 8 participants. We identified significant barriers and facilitators to implementation of the ESKD LP across three CFIR domains: Innovation, Outer setting, and Inner setting. Regarding the Innovation domain, patients and care partners valued the concept of shared decision-making with their care team (CFIR construct: innovation design). However, both clinicians and patients had significant concerns about the complexity of decision-making around kidney substitutes and the ability of patients to digest the overwhelming amount of information needed to effectively participate in creating the LP (innovation complexity). Clinicians expressed concerns regarding the lack of existing evidence base which limits their ability to effectively counsel patients (innovation evidence base) and the implementation costs (innovation cost). Within the Outer Setting, both clinicians and patients were concerned about performance measurement pressure under the existing “Fistula First” policies and had concerns about reimbursement (financing). In the Inner Setting, clinicians and patients stressed the lack of available resources and access to knowledge and information.

Conclusion

Given the complexity of decision-making around kidney substitutes and vascular access, our findings point to the need for implementation strategies, infrastructure development, and policy change to facilitate ESKD LP development.
Effect of graphene coatings on the morphology of submillimeter thin copper wires after salt spray aging
Authors: Lis Krzysztof , Placek Krzysztof , Diplas Spyros , Sunding Martin F. , Gorantla Sandeep M. , Gryglewicz Grażyna , Bachmatiuk Alicja
Published: July 2023

Unprotected copper conductors are prone to oxidation and corrosion, especially when in contact with salt water or at high temperature. In this study, we compared commercially available coating with graphene oxide and plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) graphene coated wires in terms of antioxidation and anticorrosion protection. Samples were subjected to aging tests in a salt spray chamber. Thereafter, both the degree of coverage and surface protection were assessed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy measurements and scanning electron microscope images, which showed significant surface protection for both graphene coatings. Raman spectra obtained from the transferred coatings revealed their structural stability, which shows that it is possible to successfully use few atomic-layers-thick coatings to protect commercially available wires. Wire resistance tests performed at temperatures up to 320°C showed similar or better results for graphene coatings than for commercially coated wires. Additionally, images of the wires after high temperature tests showed high antioxidation protection for graphene coatings, especially for PECVD. The results of this study can be applied for further research on mechanical suitability of the coatings and wires themselves, especially after high-temperature CVD processes. Such studies may lead to novel Cu wire processing technologies.

Graphical abstract
Exploring the Relationship Between Faculty Mentor Engagement and African American STEM Persistence
Authors: Harris Pheather R. , Nagle Barry
Published: July 2023

This quantitative study explores factors associated with the persistence rates of African American students aspiring to major in STEM subjects and who ultimately complete undergraduate STEM degrees. The primary data source for this study is the Cooperative Institutional Research Program’s 2009 The Freshman Survey (TFS) and the 2013 College Senior Survey (CSS). The sample included 379 African American students who indicated on TFS that they intended to declare STEM as their major. The findings reveal that African American undergraduates are significantly more likely to persist in STEM majors with increased levels of faculty mentor engagement. The findings demonstrate the need for institutions to implement curricula that encourage meaningful faculty engagement to contribute to the creation of more inclusive academic environments for African American students in STEM.
The effect of surface geometry on the aerodynamic behaviour of a football
Authors: Ward M. , Passmore M. A. , Spencer A. , Hanson H. , Lucas T.
Published: July 2023

Several studies have investigated the effect of surface features on the aerodynamic behaviour of a sphere or a football. Research on footballs typically compare real footballs with highly complex seam geometry and surface texture, making it difficult to identify which features influence the aerodynamic behaviour. This study commissioned many 3D printed footballs with regularly increasing seam length and surface texture to undertake a designed experiment to study these changes in a controlled fashion. Each ball was tested in a wind tunnel in non-spinning cases, or spinning about a vertical axis, at a range of speeds and key aerodynamic parameters were extracted from the data. Several methods were employed to characterise the roughness of each ball, and these roughness metrics were statistically tested for correlations with selected aerodynamic parameters. Using these relationships provides design guidance to football manufacturers to understand how modifying their surface geometry would influence the ball’s aerodynamic behaviour. In general, increasing the volume of roughness of the ball, measured as the change in volume of the ball introduced through seams or texture compared to a smooth sphere, decreased the critical Reynolds number. Balls with larger texture elements, particularly those with protrusive texture, had a much lower critical Reynolds number than other balls with the same absolute volumes of roughness. The post-critical drag coefficient did not significantly correlate with any of the roughness features of the balls. In a spinning case, the balls with high roughness generated a higher side force, this relationship plateaued at a certain level of roughness. The reverse Magnus behaviour changed significantly with the surface roughness; as the overall roughness volume of the ball increased, the Reynolds number at which the reverse Magnus changed to a conventional Magnus effect decreased. The large protrusive texture elements were effective at preventing a reverse Magnus effect from occurring at all in the tested Reynolds number range.
Expressive Responding, Experimental Philosophy, and Philosophical Expertise
Authors: Glackin Shane Nicholas
Published: July 2023

The Experimental Philosophy (“X-Phi”) movement applies the methodology of empirical sciences – most commonly empirical psychology – to traditional philosophical questions. In its radical, “negative” form, X-Phi uses the resulting empirical data to cast doubt on the reliability of common philosophical methods, arguing for radical reform of philosophical methodology.

In this paper I develop two connected methodological worries about this second enterprise. The first concerns the data elicited by questionnaires and other empirical survey methods; recent work in political science suggests that such surveys frequently do not elicit the participants’ candid judgements, but rather their expressions of certain attitudes and identifications. This possibility stymies the arguments from experimental data to a radical overhaul of philosophical methodology. The second builds on recent work by L.A. Paul and Kieran Healy concerning social science methodology, applying it to the use of those methods in X-Phi. It concerns experimental design where the treatment investigated is a “transformative” one; since a philosophical education is plausibly one such treatment, doubt is cast on any claim that apparent differences between the judgements of philosophers and ordinary folk has implications for philosophical methodology.
A geometric construction of isospectral magnetic graphs
Authors: Fabila-Carrasco John Stewart , Lledó Fernando , Post Olaf
Published: July 2023

We present a geometrical construction of families of finite isospectral graphs labelled by different partitions of a natural number r of given length s (the number of summands). Isospectrality here refers to the discrete magnetic Laplacian with normalised weights (including standard weights). The construction begins with an arbitrary finite graph $${\varvec{G}}$$

G

with normalised weight and magnetic potential as a building block from which we construct, in a first step, a family of so-called frame graphs $$({\varvec{F}}_a)_{a \in {\mathbb {N}}}$$

(

F

a

)

a
∈
N

. A frame graph $${\varvec{F}}_a$$

F

a

is constructed contracting a copies of G along a subset of vertices $$V_0$$

V
0

. In a second step, for any partition $$A=(a_1,\dots ,a_s)$$

A
=
(

a
1

,
⋯
,

a
s

)

of length s of a natural number r (i.e., $$r=a_1+\dots +a_s$$

r
=

a
1

+
⋯
+

a
s

) we construct a new graph $${\varvec{F}}_A$$

F

A

contracting now the frames $${\varvec{F}}_{a_1},\dots ,{\varvec{F}}_{a_s}$$

F

a
1

,
⋯
,

F

a
s

selected by A along a proper subset of vertices $$V_1\subset V_0$$

V
1

⊂

V
0

. All the graphs obtained by different s-partitions of $$r\ge 4$$

r
≥
4

(for any choice of $$V_0$$

V
0

and $$V_1$$

V
1

) are isospectral and non-isomorphic. In particular, we obtain increasing finite families of graphs which are isospectral for given r and s for different types of magnetic Laplacians including the standard Laplacian, the signless standard Laplacian, certain kinds of signed Laplacians and, also, for the (unbounded) Kirchhoff Laplacian of the underlying equilateral metric graph. The spectrum of the isospectral graphs is determined by the spectrum of the Laplacian of the building block G and the spectrum for the Laplacian with Dirichlet conditions on the set of vertices $$V_0$$

V
0

and $$V_1$$

V
1

with multiplicities determined by the numbers r and s of the partition.
Exploring spherical units as perceptual clues in enumerating 3D arrays
Authors: Alstad Edgar , Berre Maren , Nilsson Per
Published: July 2023

This study continues an investigation of how spherical units, compared to cubical units, can facilitate students’ units-locating and organizing units in composites. We analyze how Norwegian grade 3 students enumerate 3D arrays with cubical and spherical units. Our results show how spherical units can act as perceptual clues that facilitate cognitive processes, underlying students’ strategies in the enumeration of 3D arrays. In particular, the results show how spherical units facilitate the units-locating process, which, in turn, supports processes of organizing-by-composites and spatial structuring of the array, in the action of developing a proper iterative strategy such as layer-based thinking.
An evaluation of maritime simulators from technical, instructional, and organizational perspectives: a hybrid multi-criteria decision-making approach
Authors: Tusher Hasan Mahbub , Munim Ziaul Haque , Nazir Salman
Published: July 2023

Recent advancements in simulation technology facilitated maritime training in various modalities such as full-mission, desktop-based, cloud-based, and virtual reality (VR) simulators. Each of the simulator modality has unique pros and cons considering their technical capabilities, pedagogical opportunities, and different organizational aspects. On the other hand, enhanced training opportunity and diversity of training depends on the proper utilization of simulators. In this context, the absence of an unbiased, transparent, and robust simulator selection process poses a complex decision-making challenge for the maritime instructors and decision-makers at the institutions. In this study, a hybrid multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) approach is proposed to evaluate four major types of simulator modalities. For the evaluation, a MCDM framework is developed based on 13 key factors (sub-criteria) for simulator selection grouped under three higher-level criteria—technical, instructional, and organizational criteria. Data was collected using a structured best-worst method (BWM) survey from subject matter experts. The Bayesian BWM is used for ranking of the 13 sub-criteria, and the Preference Ranking Organization Method for Enrichment Evaluation (PROMETHEE) is used to evaluate the four simulator modalities utilizing sub-criteria ranking scores from Bayesian BWM. The results reveal that the regulatory compliance of simulators is the most important criterion, while the cost of simulators is considered the least important criterion during the simulator selection process. Overall, full-mission simulators are the most preferred followed by VR simulators, cloud-based and desktop simulators. However, a sensitivity analysis demonstrated context-specific preferences for certain simulator types over others.
A macroeconomic viewpoint using a structural VAR analysis of silver price behaviour
Authors: Robinson Z.
Published: July 2023

This article investigates silver price as a fluctuating commodity price since the financial crisis of 2007–2009. In this regard, a structural vector autoregression (VAR) was applied to observe the sensitivity of the silver price and future pricing due to changes in macroeconomic variables and to review changes in macroeconomic variables due to changes in the silver price. The main results show that the silver price is susceptible to changes in the gold price, increasing sideways. A shock to OECD GDP caused the silver price to increase which makes logical sense, thus showing a positive correlation between output and the silver price. A shock to the oil price caused the silver price to spike over the short term, then move sideways over the long term. A shock to the US Federal funds rate caused the silver price to dip over the short term, then increase slightly over the medium and move sideways over the long term, while a shock to the real effective exchange rate of the USA caused the silver price to increase sideways. The article sheds some light on the reactive status of the silver price to macroeconomic variables and its influence as a safe haven commodity.