bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A 10-week multicomponent outdoor exercise program improves hemodynamic parameters and physical fitness in cardiovascular disease adult and elderly patients
Authors: Poli Luca , Mazić Sanja , Ciccone Marco Matteo , Cataldi Stefania , Fischetti Francesco , Greco Gianpiero
Published: September 2024

This study aimed to assess the effects of a 10-week multicomponent outdoor exercise program on hemodynamic, physical fitness and psychological variables in subjects with CVDs. Twenty participants (12 M and 8 F; age 68.5 ± 8.6 years; BMI 28.49 ± 4.98 kg/m2) suffering from CVDs participated in this randomized controlled study and were allocated into two groups: an experimental group (EG; 6 M, 5 F) who underwent a multicomponent training (i.e., cardiorespiratory, resistance, mobility and breathing exercises; 60’, 2d·wk-1), or a wait-list control group (CG; 6 M, 3 F) who did not engage in any PA. Hemodynamic parameters were assessed through resting heart rate (RHR) and peripheral blood pressure (P-SBP/P-DBP). Physical fitness was assessed via a 30″ chair stand test (30CST), timed up and go (TUG) test, handgrip strength (HGS) test, and 2’ step test (TMST). The health status and quality of life (QoL) were evaluated with short form-12 (SF-12) and World Health Organization QoL (WHOQoL-bref), respectively. After the intervention, EG showed significant reduction in hemodynamic parameters (RHR p < 0.001, ES = 0.98; P-SBP p < 0.001, ES = 0.53; P-DBP: p < 0.001, ES = 0.78), physical fitness (30CST p < 0.001, ES = 0.92; TUG p = 0.001, ES = 0.67; TMST p < 0.05, ES = 0.79) and physical component of SF-12 (PSC-12 p < 0.05, ES = 0.42) compared to CG; no significant changes were observed in HGS, QoL and mental health component of the SF-12 (p > 0.05). The findings showed significant improvements in hemodynamic parameters and physical fitness suggesting the effectiveness of the multicomponent outdoor exercise program in adults and elderly with stabilized CVDs.
Validation of Hole-Drilling Residual Stress Measurements in Workpieces of Various Thickness
Authors: Lakey M. C. , Hill M. R.
Published: September 2024

Background

A recent revision to the ASTM E837 standard for near-surface residual stress measurement by the hole-drilling method describes a new thickness-dependent stress calculation procedure applicable to “thin” and “intermediate” workpieces for which strain versus depth response depends on workpiece thickness. This new calculation procedure differs from that of the prior standard, which applies only to thick workpieces with strain versus depth response independent of thickness.

Objective

Herein we assess the new calculation procedures by performing hole-drilling residual stress measurements in samples with a range of thickness.

Methods

Near-surface residual stress is measured in a thick aluminum plate containing near-surface residual stress from a uniform shot peening treatment, and in samples of different thickness removed from the plate at the peened surface. A finite element (FE) model is used to assess consistency between measured residual stress across the range of sample thickness.

Results

Measured residual stress varies with sample thickness, with thinner samples exhibiting smaller near-surface compressive stress and a larger gradient of subsurface stress. These trends are consistent with both observed bending (curvature) of the removed samples and the trend in FE-calculated expected residual stress. The measured and expected residual stresses are in good agreement for samples of intermediate thickness, but the agreement decreases with sample thickness. Measured residual stress is invariant with gage circle diameter.

Conclusion

The new thickness-dependent stress calculation procedure for hole-drilling provides meaningful improvement compared to thick-workpiece calculations.
Dietary factors and DNA methylation-based markers of ageing in 5310 middle-aged and older Australian adults
Authors: Cribb Lachlan , Hodge Allison M. , Southey Melissa C. , Giles Graham G. , Milne Roger L. , Dugué Pierre-Antoine
Published: September 2024

The role of nutrition in healthy ageing is acknowledged but details of optimal dietary composition are still uncertain. We aimed to investigate the cross-sectional associations between dietary exposures, including macronutrient composition, food groups, specific foods, and overall diet quality, with methylation-based markers of ageing. Blood DNA methylation data from 5310 participants (mean age 59 years) in the Melbourne Collaborative Cohort Study were used to calculate five methylation-based measures of ageing: PCGrimAge, PCPhenoAge, DunedinPACE, ZhangAge, TelomereAge. For a range of dietary exposures, we estimated (i) the ‘equal-mass substitution effect’, which quantifies the effect of adding the component of interest to the diet while keeping overall food mass constant, and (ii) the ‘total effect’, which quantifies the effect of adding the component of interest to the current diet. For ‘equal-mass substitution effects’, the strongest association for macronutrients was for fibre intake (e.g. DunedinPACE, per 12 g/day − 0.10 [standard deviations]; 95%CI − 0.15, − 0.05, p < 0.001). Associations were positive for protein (e.g. PCGrimAge, per 33 g/day 0.04; 95%CI 0.01–0.08, p = 0.005). For food groups, the evidence tended to be weak, though sugar-sweetened drinks showed positive associations, as did artificially-sweetened drinks (e.g. DunedinPACE, per 91 g/day 0.06, 95%CI 0.03–0.08, p < 0.001). ‘Total effect’ estimates were generally very similar. Scores reflecting overall diet quality suggested that healthier diets were associated with lower levels of ageing markers. High intakes of fibre and low intakes of protein and sweetened drinks, as well as overall healthy diets, showed the most consistent associations with lower methylation-based ageing in our study.
DEM investigation into the small-strain stiffness of bio-cemented soils
Authors: Zhang Aoxi , Magnanimo Vanessa , Cheng Hongyang , Heimovaara Timo J. , Dieudonné Anne-Catherine
Published: September 2024

Bio-mediated methods, such as microbially induced carbonate precipitation, are promising techniques for soil stabilisation. However, uncertainty about the spatial distribution of the minerals formed and the mechanical improvements impedes bio-mediated methods from being translated widely into practice. To bolster confidence in bio-treatment, non-destructive characterisation is desired. Seismic methods offer the possibility to monitor the effectiveness and mechanical efficiency of bio-treatment both in the laboratory and in the field. To aid the interpretation of shear wave velocity measurements, this study uses the discrete element method to examine the small-strain stiffness of bio-cemented sands. Bio-cemented specimens with different characteristics, including properties of the host sand (void ratio, uniformity of particle size distribution) and properties of the precipitated minerals (distribution pattern, content, Young’s modulus), are modelled and subjected to static probing. The mechanisms affecting the small-strain properties of cemented soils are investigated from microscopic observations. The results identify two mechanisms controlling the mechanical reinforcement associated with bio-cementation, namely the number of effective bonds and the ability of a single bond to improve stiffness. The results show that the dominant mechanism varies with the properties of the host sand. These results support the use of seismic measurements to assess the mechanical efficiency and effectiveness of bio-mediated treatment.
Comparative Analysis of Two Different MIM Configurations of a Plasmonic Nanoantenna
Authors: Esfahani Niloofar Ebrahimzadeh , Kovác Jaroslav , Maruccio Giuseppe , Rizzato Silvia , Kovácová Soňa
Published: September 2024

Two plasmonic nanoantenna configurations—nanodisk and nanostrip arrays—in a metal–insulator-metal (MIM) setup were proposed, optimized, and compared by simulating their optical properties in three-dimensional models using COMSOL Multiphysics software. The optical responses, including electric field enhancement, absorption, reflection, and transmission spectra, were systematically investigated. Optimized geometrical parameters led to a significant enhancement of the electric field within the gap layers and almost perfect light absorptance for both structures. The results showed that the enhancement of the electric field depends on the polarization of the incident light. For both polarizations, the periodic circular nanodisk array showed a stronger field enhancement with an electric field enhancement factor of 6.6 × 106 and TE polarization, and a larger absorptance of 98% at its dipole resonance wavelength, indicating the fundamental plasmonic mode. In addition, weaker resonant modes were observed in the absorptance and reflectance spectra of both nanostructures, with the nanostrips exhibiting sharper and stronger higher-order modes, making them suitable for applications requiring precise wavelength selectivity and narrow-band responses. Despite their different geometric shapes, both structures exhibited similar optimized metal film thickness and nanoparticle height, comparable modes in number and position, and identical optimized light incidence angles. Furthermore, increasing the dielectric gap layer thickness and optimizing it to a specific value revealed its ability to measure the refractive index, making it a promising candidate for sensing applications.
Brief Report: a Cross-Sectional Comparison of the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test with a Single Question to Assess Alcohol Use in Fishing Communities of Uganda
Authors: Nakaweesa Teddy , Malama Kalonde , Ssetaala Ali , Mpendo Juliet , Nanvubya Annet , Okech Brenda , Bagaya Bernard , Price Matt A. , Hills Nancy , Brickley Debbie
Published: September 2024

Rapid assessment for alcohol use in clinical practice and research is key to improved health and study participation. We assessed the correlation between Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) score and responses from a single question on frequency of alcohol use among people living in fishing communities of Uganda. Four hundred nineteen participants screened for a simulated vaccine efficacy trial completed the AUDIT and single question. Spearman’s correlation coefficients compared the two tools. There was significant correlation between the AUDIT score and the single question (rho = 0.824, P < 0.001). The single question can be used as an alternative to the full AUDIT during screening.
Implementierung von Patientensicherheitsmaßnahmen in Ländern mit niedrigem Einkommen am Beispiel des Klinikpartnerschaftsprojekts SAFE@KCH
Authors: Rösner Hannah , Boy Stefan , Katantha Mercy , Jingini Emmie , Strametz Reinhard
Published: September 2024

Hintergrund

In Ländern mit niedrigem und mittlerem Einkommen (LMIC) stellt die Gewährleistung der Patientensicherheit eine entscheidende Herausforderung dar, die direkte Auswirkungen auf die Gesundheitsversorgung und die Lebensqualität der Bevölkerung hat.

Ziel

Das Ziel des Projekts Safe@KCH war es, die Patientensicherheit im malawischen Kamuzu Central Hospital (KCH) durch die Implementierung evidenzbasierter Praktiken und die Anpassung an den organisatorischen Kontext des KCH zu erhöhen.

Material und Methoden

Basierend auf dem PARIHS-Framework wurden evidenzbasierte Praktiken identifiziert, an den organisatorischen Kontext des KCH angepasst und implementiert. Diese umfassten unter anderem die Einführung von Patientenarmbändern, perioperativen Sicherheitschecks und die Schulung von Patient Safety Ambassadors (PSA).

Ergebnisse

Die Implementierung der Maßnahmen führte zu einer signifikanten Verbesserung der Patientensicherheit im KCH. Positive Auswirkungen auf den Ist-Zustand des KCH wurden festgestellt, insbesondere hinsichtlich der Reduktion von Verwechslungen und Fehlern bei der Behandlung. Die Schulung von PSA trug zur Sensibilisierung des Personals bei und förderte eine Sicherheitskultur.

Schlussfolgerung

Das Projekt Safe@KCH lieferte wertvolle Einblicke in die Herausforderungen und Möglichkeiten zur Verbesserung der Patientensicherheit in LMIC. Es unterstreicht die Bedeutung gezielter Zusammenarbeit und den Einsatz evidenzbasierter Praktiken, um die Gesundheitsversorgung nachhaltig sicherer und qualitativ hochwertiger zu gestalten. Die erzielten Erfolge stellen einen wichtigen Schritt auf dem Weg zu einer qualitativ hochwertigen und sicheren Gesundheitsversorgung für alle dar.
Effektiveres Pandemiemanagement durch sozialwissenschaftliche Politikberatung? Ein kritischer Kommentar zu Jörn Knoblochs Beitrag in Heft 4/2023
Authors: Bach Maurizio
Published: September 2024

Der Kommentar setzt sich kritisch mit Jörn Knoblochs Analyse des Corona-Pandemiemanagements in Deutschland auseinander. Er hinterfragt die Behauptung Knoblochs, durch eine stärkere Berücksichtigung von Sozialwissenschaftlern in den einschlägigen Beratungsgremien hätte eine effektivere Krisenbewältigung erreicht werden können. Der Beitrag fokussiert zum einen die strukturellen epistemischen Grenzen sowohl der biomedizinischen Wissenschaften als auch der empirischen Sozialforschung. Zum anderen beleuchtet er die Eigenlogik politischer Entscheidungsprozesse, die durch die Notwendigkeit der Unsicherheitsabsorption und Systemstabilisierung geprägt sind und gegenüber externen Einflüssen als relativ immun erscheinen. Der Beitrag plädiert für eine differenzierte Betrachtung der Schnittstelle zwischen wissenschaftlicher Beratung und politischer Praxis und mahnt eine kritische Reflexion der Rolle und der Grenzen der wissenschaftsgestützten Politikberatung an.
Human–nature connectedness is positively correlated with the perceived value of nature regardless of urbanization levels
Authors: Kageyama Shun , Saito Tomomi , Tajima Yuno , Hashimoto Shizuka
Published: September 2024

Urbanization has affected the economy, ecosystem, and human health. In addition to these direct and physical impacts, urbanization is suggested to affect our preferences and valuation with respect to nature, including people’s perceived values of nature and human–nature connectedness (HNC). Perceived values of nature and HNC are essential for constructing and maintaining sustainable cities. However, the relationship between urbanization, HNC, and perceived values of nature has not been sufficiently elucidated. This study aimed to quantitatively examine this relationship and to generate new insights into methods for enhancing people’s perceived values of nature. The study focused on the following research questions: (1) How different is residents’ HNC under varying urbanization levels? (2) How different is the relationship between HNC and the perceived values of nature under varying urbanization levels? This study categorized perceived values of nature into “relational values” and “instrumental values”. A questionnaire was administered to the residential population in three study areas in Nagareyama City, Japan, each representing a rural, urbanizing, and urban area. The data were subjected to factor analysis, structural equation modeling (SEM), and multi-group SEM. The results indicate that residents’ HNC is weaker in urbanizing and urban areas than in rural areas. The findings also suggest that HNC positively correlates with the perceived values of nature, regardless of urbanization levels. These results indicate that considering HNC is crucial in nature management to understand people’s value perceptions and conservation attitudes as well as to enhance their value perceptions toward surrounding nature under varying urbanization levels.
Work-related stress and sleep quality—the mediating role of rumination: a longitudinal analysis
Authors: Matti Noura , Mauczok Charlotte , Eder Julian , Wekenborg Magdalena Katharina , Penz Marlene , Walther Andreas , Kirschbaum Clemens , Specht Markus B. , Rothe Nicole
Published: September 2024

Objective

This study investigates the mediating role of rumination in the relationship between work-related stress and sleep quality. Sleep quality is a critical component of mental health and wellbeing. Work-related stress is a potential risk factor for poor sleep quality, and this research focuses on how the constructs of rumination—affective rumination, detachment, and problem-solving rumination—may mediate this association.

Methods

Data from the Dresden Burnout Study were analyzed cross-sectionally and longitudinally over three timepoints. The sample included 360 full- and parttime employees. Work-related stress was assessed using the effort–reward Imbalance Questionnaire, sleep quality using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, and rumination using the Work-Related Rumination Questionnaire.

Results

The study found that work-related stress was positively correlated with reduced sleep quality, both cross-sectionally and longitudinally. In addition, work-related stress predicted increased levels of affective rumination and detachment but not of problem-solving rumination. Affective rumination and detachment partially mediated the relationship between work-related stress and sleep quality, suggesting that individuals who experience higher levels of work-related stress are more likely to engage in ruminative thoughts about their work experiences, which, in turn, leads to reduced sleep quality.

Conclusion

These findings highlight the importance of considering cognitive processes such as rumination when addressing sleep disturbance related to work stress. Future research should include objective measures of sleep quality and consider shorter intervals to capture immediate changes in stress and sleep patterns. By addressing these factors, healthcare professionals can better support those suffering from sleep disturbance due to work-related stress. Ultimately, this may have a positive impact on their overall wellbeing and productivity at work.
Incidence of lymphedema related to various cancers
Authors: Letellier Marie-Eve , Ibrahim Marize , Towers Anna , Chaput Geneviève
Published: September 2024

Cancer-related lymphedema (CRL) lacks internationally accepted definition and diagnostic criteria. The accurate incidence of CRL is therefore a challenge and the condition is likely underreported. Patients treated for cancer can develop CRL as a result of surgery, chemotherapy, and/or radiotherapy, which can lead to considerable psychosocial and physical morbidity, and decreased quality of life. Determining CRL incidence is crucial to inform care access and resource allocation, to best support patients affected by this lifelong condition. This review aimed to provide the latest CRL incidence estimates. Using four core databases (MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science Core Collection, Cochrane Library), a literature search was performed to capture publications dated between 2015 and 2023. A total of 48 articles (33 prospective studies, 15 systematic reviews) met inclusion criteria, providing a sample size of 234,079 cancer patients. Findings revealed CRL incidence across cancer types varied, reported 2–74% in breast, 8–45% in gynecological and urological, 71–90% in head and neck and 2–29% in melanoma cancers. CRL incidence varied between 3 and 21% in preventative lymphedema surgery patients. Projected increases in cancer incidence and improved survival rates are expected to further escalate CRL incidence. Healthcare systems and professionals alike must therefore prepare to meet the growing needs of CRL patients.
Who Can Make Burned-Out Students Feel Better and Self-efficient? Latent Profiles of Student Burnout and Its Association to Personal and Social Resources Among Polish and Turkish Early Adolescents
Authors: Tomaszek Katarzyna , Muchacka-Cymerman Agnieszka , Aypay Ayşe , Altınsoy Fatma
Published: September 2024

In recent years, the study demands-resources model (SD-R) has received significant attention as a comprehensive framework that identifies school burnout antecedents and adverse consequences. Our main study aim was to identify school burnout profiles among early adolescents and examine the associated personal and social resources. A cross-sectional study collected data from Polish and Turkish youths (N = 959,57.1% from Poland) through a paper-pencil and online survey measuring four school burnout dimensions, personal resources and social resources. 27 Three school burnout profiles were identified: (Profile 1) Highly Burned-out Students (14.8%), (Profile 2) Slightly Burned-out Students (63.5%), (Profile 3) Unburned-out Students (21.7%). Students from Profile 1 scored significantly lower in social and personal resource. The membership in Profile 2 was predicted by worse relationships with important adults (parents, teachers), and lower self-esteem compared to Profile 3. Our findings confirmed that school burnout symptoms are experienced (even slightly) by a relatively high number of youths.
Detecting Noncredible Responding in College Student ADHD Assessment: A Comparison of Several Brief Symptom Validity Tests
Authors: Weis Robert , Costenbader Reese
Published: September 2024

A diagnosis of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) offers tangible and psychological benefits to college students. These incentives lead some students to exaggerate symptoms on self-report rating scales. Although validity tests can detect noncredible responding, they are seldom used by clinicians who conduct adult ADHD evaluations. Many validity tests require considerable time, are expensive to administer, or are not accessible to many clinicians. We conducted a between-subjects simulation study examining the ability of several brief symptom validity tests to differentiate college students with self-reported ADHD (n = 229) and students without ADHD randomly assigned to honest control (n = 260) or simulator (n = 239) conditions. All participants completed the Conners’ Adult ADHD Rating Scales (CAARS) with several embedded validity indicators (i.e., CAARS Inconsistency Index, CAARS Infrequency Index [CII], Dissociative Experiences Scale, Exaggeration Index [EI]), and the Subtle ADHD Malingering Screener. Results showed that students without ADHD could easily simulate this condition. Simulators earned significantly higher scores than participants in the ADHD and control conditions on all the validity tests that we examined, except the CAARS Inconsistency Index. Elevated scores on the CAARS hyperactive-impulsive scale, the CII, or the EI yielded the best classification statistics with specificity to controls ranging from 98.5 to 100%, sensitivity to simulators ranging from 35.6 to 42.7%, and low positive cases among participants in the ADHD condition. Associations between these validity scales were moderate. Requiring elevated scores on multiple validity scales yielded perfect specificity to controls, sensitivities to simulators between 27.2 and 31.8%, and few positive cases among participants in the ADHD condition (0 to 3.1%). These tests may offer clinicians a time- and cost-effective way to evaluate the validity of students’ self-reports, especially when integrated with objective information from other sources.
Metastatic melanoma: an unexpected cause of acute liver failure
Authors: O’Neill Robert S. , Leaver Phillip , Ryan Connor , Liang Sharron , Sanagapalli Santosh , Cosman Rasha
Published: September 2024

Acute liver failure secondary to metastatic melanoma is exceedingly rare with the literature limited to case reports. The disease itself presents with vague symptoms making diagnosis difficult without a high clinical suspicion. Further to this, the prognosis of acute liver failure secondary to metastatic melanoma is dismal. We present the case of a 59-year-old male with a distant history of previously excised cutaneous melanoma who presented to our institution with abdominal pain and liver enzyme derangement suggestive of acute hepatitis. Due to progressive derangement in liver function and cross-sectional imaging suggestive of an infiltrative cause, a left axillary lymph node was biopsied which demonstrated metastatic melanoma. The patient subsequently deteriorated into acute liver failure and despite acute treatment of his underlying metastatic melanoma died 17 days post initial presentation. This case highlights an uncommon cause of acute liver failure as well as the poor prognosis associated with acute liver failure secondary to metastatic melanoma.
Differentiated measurement of cognitive loads in computer programming
Authors: Quintero-Manes Roxana , Vieira Camilo
Published: September 2024

This study had two objectives: (1) to evaluate the validity of an instrument for measuring differentiated cognitive loads in its Spanish version; and (2) to evaluate the three types of cognitive loads and their relationship with self-efficacy, self-concept, and interest in programming of students in an introductory course. Understanding and assessing cognitive loads when learning computer programming is key to supporting student learning. While there are instruments in English and German assessing the different types of cognitive loads, there is no validated instrument in Spanish. This study took place during the implementation of an online training program in basic programming, with a sample of 1162 students. We used Exploratory Factor Analysis and Confirmatory Factor Analysis to validate the structure of the instrument. The results allowed us to establish a factorial structure of the subjective scale of differentiated cognitive loads, managing to measure the germane, intrinsic, and extraneous cognitive loads. The bivariate correlation analysis allowed identifying statistically significant associations between the study variables, including (a) the negative relationship between extraneous cognitive load and germane cognitive load and (b) the negative relationship between extraneous cognitive load and self-efficacy in programming.
Research participant perceptions of personal utility in disclosure of individual research results from genomic analysis
Authors: Bogaert Brenda , Crevier Marie-Josée , Roth Cindy , Jox Ralf J. , Barazzetti Gaia
Published: September 2024

This article elaborates research participant perspectives on the communication of individual research results from genomic analyses. While most analyses focus on how to communicate results from the perspectives of clinicians or researchers, there is insufficient data on user perspectives and how this information may be used, valued, and interpreted by patients and their families. The concept of personal utility, which considers factors related to quality of life, including on how information may impact the person’s future decisions, has been shown to be particularly relevant to understand research participant perspectives and to move beyond clinical and analytic utility factors such as mortality and morbidity. This article draws from qualitative research of research participants awaiting genomic results in the case of sudden cardiac death. Our results show perspectives of personal utility in communication of genomic results, including cognitive, behavioral, and affective outcomes. Cognitive outcomes include gain of information, improved knowledge of etiology and inheritance characteristics, and curiosity for what might be found. Behavioral outcomes include being able to plan life decisions, while affective outcomes include various coping strategies used. We will also discuss the value of knowing negative results and incidental findings from the research participant’s perspective. This contribution gives suggestions on best practices to guide genome analysis returns, including incorporating participant wishes on individualized communication at the consent stage; developing relational autonomy approaches; and engaging them throughout the research trajectory.
The interplay of context and need: unravelling the interwoven threads of teachers’ professional learning/development
Authors: Nezhad Parivash Mohammad , Stolz Steven A.
Published: September 2024

Despite the growing emphasis on professional learning/development, a significant gap exists in the design and implementation of current professional learning/development programs, often failing to integrate the voices of teachers regarding their learning needs and interests. Our study, conducted across primary and secondary schools in the Greater Adelaide region, reveals that these programs dictated by school improvement plans, often sideline teachers’ perspectives. This paper presents practising teachers’ perspectives on their learning needs. It also examines the perceived barriers to addressing these needs, incorporating insights from teachers and school leaders utilising a qualitative approach through in-depth interviews. While aligning with recent literature, our study’s findings uncover complexities in the educational system that influence meeting teachers’ learning needs, using a unique theoretical framework to interpret the data.
Hardy–Littlewood maximal function on Lorentz–Herz spaces
Authors: Ho Kwok-Pun
Published: September 2024

This paper extends the study of the generalized Lorentz spaces to the Lorentz–Herz spaces. The Lorentz–Herz spaces consist of all Lebesgue measurable functions such that theirs non-increasing rearrangements belong to the weighted Herz space. The main result of this paper establishes the mapping properties of the Hardy–Littlewood maximal function on the Lorentz–Herz spaces.
Text and Data Mining Exceptions in Latin America
Authors: Schirru Luca , Rocha de Souza Allan , Valente Mariana G. , de Perdigão Lana Alice
Published: September 2024

Text and data mining (TDM) is a powerful tool in the knowledge discovery process and an essential step in the process of training Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems. Whether forms of use needed for TDM conflict with copyright rules is still a matter for debate within the specialized literature and when designing new legislation across the globe. Despite the borderless nature of research and the fact that the interplay between TDM and copyright is a matter of interest to all regions, most of the focus in the existing literature is on countries or examples from the Global North. This study contributes to filling this gap by providing additional information on recent developments across Latin America regarding the need for copyright legislation to adapt to data-intensive research practices and uses. It also provides a set of practical examples and issues specific to that region. It is hoped that these will, at least, partially, contribute to a more universal approach to the issue around the globe.
Gut mucosa alterations after kidney transplantation: a cross sectional study
Authors: Joshi Rashmi , Secondulfo Carmine , Caputo Alessandro , Zeppa Pio , Iacuzzo Candida , Apicella Luca , Borriello Margherita , Bilancio Giancarlo , Viggiano Davide
Published: September 2024

Background

Kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) rely on immunosuppressants like mycophenolate to prevent organ rejection. However, mycophenolate often causes intestinal symptoms and inflammation in various organs, including the skin and the colon. While KTRs have an increased risk for skin cancer, the risk of colorectal cancer is not increased.

Elucidating the histological alterations in the colon of KTRs and comparing these changes with known skin alterations would help understand how immunosuppressants influence cancer development and progression.

Methods

Whole slide images from gut biopsies (Non-transplanted subjects n = 35, KTRs n = 49) were analyzed using the ImageJ and R programming environment. A total of 22,035 epithelial cells, 38,870 interstitial cells, 3465 epithelial cell mitoses, and 7477 endothelial cells, each characterized by multiple microscopy parameters, from a total of 1788 glands were analyzed. The large database was subsequently analyzed to verify the changes of inflammatory milieu in KTRs and in cancer.

Results

KTRs without colon-cancer showed a significantly higher density of interstitial cells in the colon compared to non-transplanted patients. Moreover, the increase in interstitial cell number was accompanied by subtle modifications in the architecture of the colon glands, without altering the epithelial cell density. We could not identify significant structural modifications in cancer samples between KTRs and non-transplanted patients.

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrate an increased number of resident interstitial cells in the colon of KTRs, as in other patients treated with mycophenolate. These changes are associated with subtle alterations in the architecture of colon glands.

Graphical abstract
Older adults’ experiences of being screened for fall risk in a clinical setting: a focus group study
Authors: Frisendahl Nathalie , Karlsson Patrik , Ek Stina , Franzén Erika , Boström Anne-Marie , Welmer Anna-Karin
Published: September 2024

Purpose

There is a need for further research on older adults’ experiences of fall risk screening to improve health communication strategies. The purpose of this study was to describe and explore older adults’ experiences of being screened for risk of an injurious fall, using the first-time injurious falls (FIF) screening tool.

Methods

A qualitative study with five focus group interviews was carried out including 17 older adults (11 women and six men, with a mean age of 77.4 years) who were recruited from two primary healthcare rehabilitation clinics in Sweden. Data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Results

The analysis generated one overarching theme, “Screening for fall risk promotes engagement by raising older adults’ awareness of their own abilities”, and four categories; “Screening may motivate to take action but can also create a false sense of security”, “Self-sufficiency is affected by the screening result and level of control over the environment”, “Easy-to-perform and helps to facilitate a discussion with the healthcare professional” and “Ideas of how FIF tool could be used in healthcare”.

Conclusion

Older adults considered screening for fall risk to be meaningful insofar as it raises awareness of their own abilities and motivates them to prevent falls. On the other hand, a low fall risk could create a false sense of security, and lack of control over environmental factors related to fall risk could negatively impact their sense of self-sufficiency. They emphasized the need to receive support from healthcare providers and to be involved in care decisions if the screening indicates a high fall risk.
Digitalization in Italian SMEs: the transformation of marketing channels
Authors: Martinelli Elisa Martina , Tunisini Annalisa
Published: September 2024

The evolution of marketing channel management and the integration of digital technologies in the overall marketing architecture have been deeply examined in the SME literature. Even if in academia the opportunities of digital in terms of performance, growth, and competitiveness are well recognized, in practice, SMEs are not always ready to fully exploit the potential of new technologies, reshaping their channels’ structure and strategies. In this paper, we display insights into the transformation and management of marketing channels for Italian manufacturing medium-sized enterprises. The study explores if and how “Made in Italy” companies are introducing digital channels in their market strategy, aiming at an omnichannel management perspective. We conduct a two-stage research design involving manufacturing medium-sized enterprises acting in the typical “Made in Italy” sectors: a Grounded Delphi Method with semi-structured interviews and the collection of data by a survey. We contribute to extending prior literature by presenting the enablers and barriers of specific marketing channels in the overall architecture and the main reasons for improving an omnichannel perspective in the perspective of the near future. In particular, the research identifies that Made in Italy medium-sized enterprises rest on decisions about adopting and managing specific channels and developing an omnichannel perspective on firm-specific and owner-managerial factors, while resource-related and environmental factors can be overcome, in particular, thanks to new partners. Based on this analysis, we then recommend specific research avenues to stimulate and advance further investigations.
Accuracy of screw placement during vertebral body tethering using fluoroscopic guidance and anatomic landmarks
Authors: Neal Kevin M. , Krombholz Kylie , Doshi Mona
Published: September 2024

Purpose

To determine the accuracy of screw placement using fluoroscopy and anatomic landmarks during vertebral body tethering (VBT) surgery.

Methods

Ten patients with 73 VBT screws were converted to posterior spinal fusion (PSF) after continued curve progression. The positions of each VBT screw were analyzed using intraoperative computed tomography (CT) scans performed for image guidance during VBT. Differences for screws placed using an open versus thoracoscopic approach were noted for the screw position in each vertebra, distance from the spinal canal, unicortical versus bicortical placement, the distance of screw tips from the thoracic aorta, and impingement of screws on adjacent rib heads.

Results

Seventy three (73) screws in ten (10) patients were available for analysis. Only 21% of screws were placed traversing the middle one-third of the vertebral body, without spinal canal penetration, with the distal tip placed unicortically or bicortically as planned, and without touching the thoracic aorta. The rates of non-ideal screw placement were not significantly different for screws placed via thoracoscopic versus open approaches. Five (5) screws (6.8%) penetrated the spinal canal 1–2 mm, but without known clinical sequelae.

Conclusion

The majority of VBT screws available for analysis were placed in non-ideal positions, suggesting that accurate screw placement using intraoperative fluoroscopy and anatomic landmarks can be challenging, but without adverse clinical consequences.
Photomorphogenesis of Myxococcus macrosporus: new insights for light-regulation of cell development
Authors: Graniczkowska Kinga B. , Bizhga Dorina , Noda Moraima , Leon Viridiana , Saraf Niharika , Feliz Denisse , Sharma Gaurav , Nugent Angela C. , Singer Mitchell , Stojković Emina A.
Published: September 2024

Myxobacteria are non-photosynthetic bacteria distinguished among prokaryotes by a multicellular stage in their life cycle known as fruiting bodies that are formed in response to nutrient deprivation and stimulated by light. Here, we report an entrained, rhythmic pattern of Myxococcus macrosporus fruiting bodies, forming consistently spaced concentric rings when grown in the dark. Light exposure disrupts this rhythmic phenotype, resulting in a sporadic arrangement and reduced fruiting-body count. M. macrosporus genome encodes a red-light photoreceptor, a bacteriophytochrome (BphP), previously shown to affect the fruiting-body formation in the related myxobacterium Stigmatella aurantiaca. Similarly, the formation of M. macrosporus fruiting bodies is also impacted by the exposure to BphP—specific wavelengths of light. RNA-Seq analysis of M. macrosporus revealed constitutive expression of the bphP gene. Phytochromes, as light-regulated enzymes, control many aspects of plant development including photomorphogenesis. They are intrinsically correlated to circadian clock proteins, impacting the overall light-mediated entrainment of the circadian clock. However, this functional relationship remains unexplored in non-photosynthetic prokaryotes. Genomic analysis unveiled the presence of multiple homologs of cyanobacterial core oscillatory gene, kaiC, in various myxobacteria, including M. macrosporus, S. aurantiaca and M. xanthus. RNA-Seq analysis verified the expression of all kaiC homologs in M. macrosporus and the closely related M. xanthus, which lacks bphP genes. Overall, this study unravels the rhythmic growth pattern during M. macrosporus development, governed by environmental factors such as light and nutrients. In addition, myxobacteria may have a time-measuring mechanism resembling the cyanobacterial circadian clock that links the photoreceptor (BphP) function to the observed rhythmic behavior.

Graphical abstract
Improved vision-only localization method for mobile robots in indoor environments
Authors: Huang Gang , Lu Liangzhu , Zhang Yifan , Cao Gangfu , Zhou Zhe
Published: September 2024

To solve the problem of mobile robots needing to adjust their pose for accurate operation after reaching the target point in the indoor environment, a localization method based on scene modeling and recognition has been designed. Firstly, the offline scene model is created by both handcrafted feature and semantic feature. Then, the scene recognition and location calculation are performed online based on the offline scene model. To improve the accuracy of recognition and location calculation, this paper proposes a method that integrates both semantic features matching and handcrafted features matching. Based on the results of scene recognition, the accurate location is obtained through metric calculation with 3D information. The experimental results show that the accuracy of scene recognition is over 90%, and the average localization error is less than 1 meter. Experimental results demonstrate that the localization has a better performance after using the proposed improved method.
A probabilistic approach for the levelized cost of energy of floating offshore wind farms
Authors: Amlashi Hadi , Baniotopoulos Charalampos
Published: September 2024

This paper aims to analyze the levelized cost of energy (LCOE) of floating offshore wind farms from a probabilistic point of view. Understanding and addressing the uncertainty associated with the main parameters that influence the wind energy generated by a wind farm during its lifetime is crucial for the economic evaluation of offshore wind energy in the broader energy landscape. The methodology for probabilistic assessment of LCOE is introduced, and the uncertainty in input parameters are discussed. In a base case study, an assumed Floating Offshore Wind Farm (FOWT) consisting of 250 5-MW wind turbines is considered. The use of bias and randomness in key random variables is discussed and studied in detail. Results indicate that LCOE estimates of 15 EURc/kWh for offshore wind turbines are achievable with reasonable confidence, while estimates of 5 EURc/kWh require careful consideration of uncertainty in the wind farm’s parameters. The feasibility analysis showed that techno-economic parameters are more influenced by wind characteristics and efficient use of wind turbines than by the cost of the wind farm. This paper provides general guidance on how to carry out early-stage techno-economic analysis of FOWFs.
Experimental study on corrosion inhibition of mild steel using Mukia maderaspatana leaves extract as green inhibitor
Authors: Radha K.V. , Patel Deepanshu , Nithya Varshith Vijayan , Saravanan Dharmaraj
Published: September 2024

In this work, investigations were conducted into the adsorption behaviour and inhibitory effect of Mukia maderaspatana leaves extract on the corrosion of mild steel in 1.5M HCl solution at several temperatures. The techniques included chemical methods (weight loss measurements), surface analysis (SEM, FESEM) and solution analysis (UV–visible spectrophotometric, ICP-MS) techniques. The examination of the data revealed that the efficiency of inhibition rose as the inhibitor's concentration increased and fell as the temperature increased. At 30 degrees Celsius, the concentration of inhibitor resulted in an increase in corrosion inhibition efficiency, reaching 99.02% efficiency at 8% concentration. The physical adsorption of the inhibitor on the metal surface was demonstrated by the adsorption free energy of the plant extract on mild steel. The conclusions above are supported by data from examinations of Scanning Electron Microscopy, FESEM, UV–visible and Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometry.
The Effects of Immigration Policy on Business Creation: A Study of the Effects of 287(g) Mandates
Authors: Shrestha Dipesh , Kostandini Genti
Published: September 2024

This study examines the impact of county-level immigration enforcement of section 287(g) mandates on the number of businesses in the United States. Using the difference-in-differences model, we find that the implementation of 287(g) negatively affected the total number of businesses. We find that counties with 287(g) agreements experienced a 6 percent decrease in the total number of businesses per 1000 county population and this negative effect appeared to be more prominent in businesses with a higher number of employees. Our findings shed light on the complex impacts of immigration policies on businesses, especially those reliant on immigrant labor.
A sensitivity study on the starting simulations of turbojet engines
Authors: Güllü E. , Aran G. , Erk M. , Baran Ö.U.
Published: September 2024

Gas turbine engine starting models require a lot of calibration to represent reality with acceptable accuracy due to the lack of high-quality component rig data in the sub-idle region. A detailed sensitivity study is presented in this paper to guide such calibration efforts. A thermodynamic component-matching type transient model of a single-spool turbojet engine with shaft and heat-soakage dynamics is employed for this purpose. Turbomachinery component maps are extended to sub-idle using an in-house map smoothing tool and the strategies presented by Kurzke recently. These extension strategies make use of the correlations hidden in the already available regions of the maps and ensure physical consistency. However, they contain some uncertainty, even when an experimentally obtained zero-speed line is available. Combustor sub-idle efficiency, stability limits, and delay are taken from the literature. Due to the chaotic nature of a combustor in the sub-idle region, a precise prediction of the combustor efficiency seems impossible. Effects of uncertainties related to sub-idle turbomachinery map extensions, burner efficiency, and heat soakage are investigated in this paper. Two popular fuel control strategies are employed and compared to see how controls deal with these uncertainties. It is concluded that turbomachinery torque characteristics and turbine capacities are the most important parameters when calibrating a starting model with a control based on rotational acceleration while burner efficiency and heat soakage are added on top of these with a control based on fuel flow rate.
Balancing the nexus of beef sustainability: a best–worst scaling approach to inform policy decisions
Authors: Osman Eliyasu Y. , Schroeder Ted C. , Lancaster Phillip A. , White Brad J.
Published: September 2024

The beef industry is facing increasing pressure to adopt sustainable practices, driven by environmental, economic, and social concerns. Designing effective policies that satisfy industry demands while aligning with public interests is a complex challenge. Using a nationally representative survey of 3,001 U.S. residents, we employ a best–worst scaling approach to assess preferences for nine beef sustainability policies. Results reveal consumers prioritize affordability of beef products and welfare of cattle as most important sustainability policies. Conversely, policies addressing greenhouse gas emissions from cattle production are least important, with less than 6% of respondents preferring them.
European “Frankenstein Constitutionalism”: TEU Article 2 as a Federal Homogeneity Clause
Authors: Nettesheim Martin
Published: September 2024

This essay argues that the Court of Justice of the European Union's (CJEU) insertion of a federal homogeneity clause into the EU's primary law is an (ahistorical) and dysfunctional “legal transplant” that does not correspond to the state of European integration. It has its place in specific state constitutional systems, which needed or need an axiological backing of their foundational order, but cannot adequately organize the interaction between the EU and member states. In post-war Germany, value constitutionalism had an important stabilizing effect on society. It contributed to the symbolic reproduction of a society that needed new patterns of orientation after the horror of National Socialism. The insertion of such a clause into the basic order of the EU is taken out of context and brings with it dysfunctional and opportunistic results.