bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gluing Algebraic Quantum Field Theories on Manifolds
Authors: Anastopoulos Angelos , Benini Marco
Published: January 2025

It has been observed that, given an algebraic quantum field theory (AQFT) on a manifold M and an open cover $$\{M_\alpha \}$$

{

M
α

}

of M, it is typically not possible to recover the global algebra of observables on M by simply gluing the underlying local algebras subordinate to $$\{M_\alpha \}$$

{

M
α

}

. Instead of gluing local algebras, we introduce a gluing construction for AQFTs subordinate to $$\{M_\alpha \}$$

{

M
α

}

and we show that for simple examples of AQFTs, constructed out of geometric data, gluing the local AQFTs subordinate to $$\{M_\alpha \}$$

{

M
α

}

recovers the global AQFT on M.
Non-invasive in vitro NAM for the detection of reversible and irreversible eye damage after chemical exposure for GHS classification purposes (ImAi)
Authors: Knetzger Nicola , Ertych Norman , Burgdorf Tanja , Beranek Joelle , Oelgeschläger Michael , Wächter Jana , Horchler Annika , Gier Stefanie , Windbergs Maike , Fayyaz Susann , Grimm Fabian A. , Wiora Georg , Lotz Christian
Published: January 2025

The potential risk of chemicals to the human eye is assessed by adopted test guidelines (TGs) for regulatory purposes to ensure consumer safety. Over the past decade, the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has approved new approach methodologies (NAMs) to predict chemical eye damage. However, existing NAMs remain associated with limitations: First, no full replacement of the in vivo Draize eye test due to limited predictability of severe/mild damage was reached. Second, the existing NAMs do not allow reliable differentiation between reversible and irreversible eye damage. Especially the prediction of tissue recovery remains challenging in vitro. Existing in vitro NAMs are based on destructive analysis with no consideration of tissue recovery. In this study, we developed a standalone eye-irritation test method based on non-invasive impedance spectroscopy (ImAi) to discriminate between damaging and irritating chemicals. Tissue effects were analyzed via transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) measurements of human in vitro epithelial models over 14 days. The TEER was performed using a developed impedance spectrometer. For development of the EIT, a chemical reference list of 329 chemicals was compiled. The applicability of the ImAi-test was exemplified by the discrimination of Cat. 1 vs. Cat. 2 for 23 reference chemicals. Correct classification was achieved for 90.9% of Cat. 1 and 83.3% of Cat. 2 chemicals. Our non-invasive in vitro test overcomes the limitations of Cat. 2 classification of the existing in vitro methods and provides for the first time a non-animal test method that can fully replace the Draize eye test.
Dielectric and spectroscopic features of Li2O/Fe2O3/In2O3/P2O5 glass systems doped with Bi2O3
Authors: Mahdy Ebrahim A. , Ibrahim S. , Abo-Mosallam H. A. , Fathi Ahlam M.
Published: January 2025

A comprehensive exploration of penta glass systems’ spectroscopic and dielectric characteristics was achieved, specifically for the glass series 20Li2O–15Fe2O3–5In2O3–xBi2O3–(60–x) P2O5(x = 0, 2.5, 5, 7.5, 10, and 12.5 mol %). Both average phosphorus-phosphorus separation and crystalline volume were found to decrease depending on Bi2O3 content. The optical band gap obtained from diffuse reflectance spectra (DRS) is found to be in the range of 1.58–1.81 eV with increasing bismuth oxide content. The optical band gap increases with bismuth content, which can be ascribed to structural changes and the reduction in non-bridging oxygen (NBO). A decrease in optical parameters, viz., refractive index (2.945–2.824), molar refractivity (32.45–29.12), and molar polarizability values (12.88–11.56), occurs with Bi2O3 content. The glasses have been designated as semiconductors due to an increase in the metallization criteria values (M lie between 0.2811 and 0.3008). The obtained results exhibit contraction in the bonds of the glass matrix and an increase in rigidity of the structure at a higher content of Bi2O3.The dc and ac conductivity of the studied glasses were affected by the O/P ratio, as they attained high values at O/P > 3.0. The asymmetrical shape of the Nyquist semicircle indicated that the glasses behavior deviated from Debye relaxation. The overall behavior of the electrical properties of the studied glasses revealed their semiconducting performance. The examined glasses could be good choices for photonic applications.
On Performance of Data Models and Machine Learning Routines for Simulations of Casting Processes
Authors: Horr Amir M. , Gómez Vázquez Rodrigo , Blacher David
Published: January 2025

The performance of data models and their associated machine-learning (ML) routines for simulations of multi-physical continuous casting processes are scrutinised in this research contribution. Data science techniques have a growing impact on the optimisation and controlling of manufacturing processes by providing fast and real-time predictive-corrective tools. These techniques employ data analytics, data training/learning, and deterministic/statistical methods to create fast and real-time models to improve manufacturing processes. In this research work, data reduced models and ML routines are developed to predict the influence of various process parameters on direct chill casting processes.

These data models represent the essential features of the multi-physical casting processes, while significantly reducing the simulation time and efforts. Hence, the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations are initially used to create a comprehensive database where variations of major process parameters are considered using carefully sampled snapshot matrices. These matrices are employed to capture the most important aspects of the processing parameters including melt temperature, cooling and casting speed. Furthermore, the resulting data models are thoroughly examined for their accuracy and reliability using some selected design of experiments (DOEs).
Evaluating racial disparities in cancer patient-provider communication about cannabis in a state without a legal cannabis marketplace
Authors: Wedel Amelia V. , Walters Kyle J. , Tomko Rachel L. , Rojewski Alana M. , McClure Erin A.
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Cancer survivors in a state with no legal access to cannabis may be hesitant to discuss their cannabis use with providers, particularly in light of legal consequences which disproportionately affect certain racial groups. This study examined potential racial disparities in the relationship of cannabis use status with patient-provider discussions of and attitudes toward cannabis in a state where there is no legal cannabis marketplace.

Methods

Survivors of cancer (N = 1003, M
age = 62.36; 13% Black/African-American; 41% male) completed a cross-sectional survey. Weight-adjusted regressions examined racial differences in the relationship between cannabis use status with (a) comfort and discussion of cannabis with providers, and (b) beliefs about impact of legalization on patients’ and providers’ comfort discussing cannabis.

Results

No racial differences were observed in rates of cannabis use or discussion, and patients who used cannabis were more comfortable discussing cannabis. Black patients who had used cannabis reported the greatest comfort discussing cannabis with providers, but also the greatest perceived improvement in comfort in the event of legalization.

Conclusions

Results highlight comfort and willingness to discuss cannabis with cancer care providers, particularly among Black patients who already use cannabis, which was not the hypothesized direction of findings. Further work is needed to inform recommendations for provider-led communication about cannabis.
Incidence of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) in different membrane oxygenators: pilot in vitro experiments in commercially available coated membranes
Authors: Foltan M. , Dinh D. , Gruber M. , Müller T. , Hart C. , Krenkel L. , Schmid C. , Lehle K.
Published: January 2025

Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) were detected in blood samples and in cellular deposits of oxygenator membranes during extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) therapy and may be responsible for thrombogenesis. The aim was to evaluate the effect of the base material of gas fiber (GF, polymethylpentene) and heat exchange (HE) membranes and different antithrombogenic coatings on isolated granulocytes from healthy volunteers under static culture conditions. Contact of granulocytes with membranes from different ECMO oxygenators (with different surface coatings) and uncoated-GFs allowed detection of adherent cells and NETotic nuclear structures (normal, swollen, ruptured) using nuclear staining. Flow cytometry was used to identify cell activation (CD11b/CD62L, oxidative burst) of non-adherent cells. Uncoated-GFs were used as a reference. Within 3 h, granulocytes adhered to the same extent on all surfaces. In contrast, the ratio of normal to NETotic cells was significantly higher for uncoated-GFs (56–83%) compared to all coated GFs (34–72%) (p < 0.001) with no difference between the coatings. After material contact, non-adherent cells remained vital with unchanged oxidative burst function and the proportion of activated cells remained low. The expression of activation markers was independent of the origin of the GF material. In conclusion, the polymethylpentene surfaces of the GFs already induce NET formation. Antithrombogenic coatings can already reduce the proportion of NETotic nuclei. However, it cannot be ruled out that NET formation can induce thrombotic events. Therefore, new surfaces or coatings are required for future ECMO systems and long-term implantable artificial lungs.
Current level of rheumatology teaching amongst undergraduate medical students: a systematic literature review
Authors: Kouranloo Koushan , Myall Nikki , Christie Jennifer
Published: January 2025

Data from the British Society of Rheumatology demonstrate a lack of exposure to rheumatology for medical students, potentially impacting career choice. We conducted a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) on quantity, type and quality of rheumatology teaching for undergraduate medical students. This SLR was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42023472169). Articles published in English-language until February 2024 were included. Information was extracted on demographics, method(s) and hours for rheumatology teaching, and students’ and educators’ feedback, where reported. Eight cross-sectional studies were included, published between 1981 and 2024. Studies were conducted in UK (3); USA (2); Australia (1); Pan-European (1) and Uganda (1). Year of rheumatology teaching at medical school was reported in four studies (three UK; one USA). The three UK studies taught rheumatology in the latter years of study; in the USA study, rheumatology was taught every year. Duration of exposure to rheumatology was 15–96 h per student. Reported teaching methods included lecture-based, rheumatology inpatient service, shadowing consultations and patient education. Student feedback was available in one (UK based) study- four students felt they had limited exposure to rheumatology; eight considered it “niche”. Factors identified for poor exposure to rheumatology included lack of full-time rheumatologists on the school’s faculty; lack of specialty training programmes in local hospitals; greater emphasis on acute specialties (e.g. emergency medicine). Exposure to and student awareness of clinical rheumatology has markedly decreased over time. Given the ageing population and increase in multimorbidity, there is a need to increase exposure and encourage entry to rheumatology training.

Key Points• There are clear differences between the methods of rheumatology teaching between institutions and countries.• Teaching hours dedicated to undergraduate rheumatology education have overall markedly decreased over time, resulting in variable student awareness of the depth and breadth of this speciality.• The overall lack of exposure to rheumatology in undergraduate programmes has been associated with a lack of uptake of rheumatology as a career amongst medical students globally.• Our results indicate a need for a minimum required number of hours of teaching dedicated to rheumatology, delivered by specialists as well as a standardised undergraduate curriculum of competencies to better reflect the needs of our increasingly ageing and multimorbid population.
Outcome of follow-up computed tomography of suspected occult scaphoid fracture after normal radiography
Authors: Geijer Mats , Gunnlaugsson Eirikur , Arvidsson Linnea , Österhed Elin , Tägil Magnus
Published: January 2025

Purpose

To evaluate the rate of missed scaphoid fractures on follow-up computed tomography (CT) for suspected occult scaphoid fracture after normal radiography with residual radial-sided wrist pain.

Methods

In a retrospective analysis, wrist CT during a five-year period was analyzed. The CT examinations and radiological reports were re-evaluated. Available clinical findings and radiologic follow-up performed during a period of a minimum of three years served as outcome reference.

Results

In total, 178 examinations had been performed on 174 patients for suspect scaphoid fracture, 67 men and 107 women, showing 15 and 6 scaphoid fractures, respectively; a statistically significant sex difference (p = 0.0024). In 157 examinations, no scaphoid fracture was detected on CT, instead 29 other wrist or carpal bone fractures were found. On follow-up, no missed scaphoid fractures were found. Before CT, 124 of the 157 patients had been treated with a cast. After CT, 35 patients continued with cast treatment for a median of 14 days.

Conclusions

CT appears to be a reliable method for evaluating suspect scaphoid fracture as part of a diagnosis-treatment regimen including pain immobilization with a plaster cast.
AlkaPhos: a novel fluorescent probe as a potential point-of-care diagnostic tool to estimate recurrence risk of meningiomas
Authors: Hemmer Sina , Hui Xin , Draeger Julia , Menges Johannes , Schwarz Eva C. , Wrede Arne , Oertel Joachim , Kaestner Lars , Jung Gregor , Urbschat Steffi
Published: January 2025

Deletion of the short arm of chromosome 1 (1p) increases recurrence rates in meningiomas by up to 33%, regardless of tumor grade, correlating with absence of intracellular alkaline phosphatase enzyme activity. Current screening methods for 1p deletion like fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and loss of heterozygosity (LOH) analysis are resource-intensive. This study evaluated AlkaPhos, a novel fluorescent probe, for detecting alkaline phosphatase in meningioma cells and compared findings with FISH, LOH, and histochemical analysis. AlkaPhos sensitivity in detecting alkaline phosphatase on BEN-MEN-1 cells and primary meningioma cultures was assessed via microscopic fluorescent ratio measurements. FISH and LOH were conducted on the same tumors to detect 1p deletions. Histochemical analysis served as a reference. AlkaPhos results were compared with FISH, LOH, and histochemical analysis. AlkaPhos effectively indicated alkaline phosphatase activity in BEN-MEN-1 cells and correctly identified 1p deletion in 8/14 primary meningioma cultures, matching FISH and LOH findings, respectively. AlkaPhos showed potential superiority over histochemical analysis in identifying tumors with 1p deletion and LOH of 1p. AlkaPhos bears potential as a future diagnostic tool for identifying alkaline phosphatase absence in meningiomas, indicative of 1p deletion. Further evaluation on a larger sample size is necessary for routine clinical application.
Extract, model, refine: improved modelling of program verification tools through data enrichment
Authors: Lathouwers Sophie , Liu Yujie , Zaytsev Vadim
Published: January 2025

In software engineering, models are used for many different things. In this paper, we focus on program verification, where we use models to reason about the correctness of systems. There are many different types of program verification techniques which provide different correctness guarantees. We investigate the domain of program verification tools and present a concise megamodel to distinguish these tools. We also present a data set of 400+ program verification tools. This data set includes the category of verification tool according to our megamodel, practical information such as input/output format, repository links and more. The practical information, such as last commit date, is kept up to date through the use of APIs. Moreover, part of the data extraction has been automated to make it easier to expand the data set. The categorisation enables software engineers to find suitable tools, investigate alternatives and compare tools. We also identify trends for each level in our megamodel. Our data set, publicly available at https://doi.org/10.4121/20347950, can be used by software engineers to enter the world of program verification and find a verification tool based on their requirements. This paper is an extended version of https://doi.org/10.1145/3550355.3552426.
Neues zum Wolf aus Luxemburg: Die rechtlichen Grenzen der Wolfsjagd im Lichte der jüngsten Rechtsprechung des EuGH
Authors: Mittag Mareike Lena Christin , Mittag Vincent
Published: January 2025

Die Rückkehr des Wolfes nach Europa verläuft nicht ohne Konflikte. Beständig wird daher – insbesondere seitens Weidetierhalterinnen und -haltern – gefordert, man möge die Jagd auf Wölfe erleichtern. Der EuGH hat sich nun jüngst in gleich zwei Fällen grundlegend mit der Wolfsjagd befasst. Der Beitrag nimmt diese Urteile in den Blick und zum Anlass, einmal die Grenzen der Wolfsjagd nachzuzeichnen, wie sie sich aus dem Völker- und Europarecht ergeben.
Beyond balance: the impact of adult sex ratios on reproduction and longevity in Zophobas morio rearing
Authors: Soulioti P. , Adamaki-Sotiraki C. , Rumbos C. I. , Athanassiou C. G.
Published: January 2025

Over the years, the study of adult sex ratio is a topic that has gained attention for its impact on reproductive outcomes and aging across various insect species. However, there is still limited research focused on insects reared for food and feed production. To address this gap, this study aimed to evaluate the impact of different adult sex ratios on the reproductive dynamics and longevity of the superworm, Zophobas morio (F.) (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae), a species with interesting potential as a nutrient source. In this study, we assessed three adult sex ratios, i.e., 5:5, 6:4 and 8:2 (female:male) with mesh used to each setup. An additional 5:5 sex ratio without mesh served as control. On a weekly basis, adult survival, egg production, and egg hatching rates were recorded. Our results revealed statistically significant differences in egg production across the different sex ratios tested, but no statistically significant differences in hatching rates and adult survival. These findings suggest that both balanced and female-biased sex ratios are suitable for Z. morio and that it is important to consider this factor when enhancing efficiency in large-scale insect production.

Graphical abstract
Liver T1 mapping in Fontan patients and patients with biventricular congenital heart disease – insights into the effects of venous congestions on diffuse liver disease
Authors: Ide Yujiro , Gabbert Dominik Daniel , Hansen Jan Hinnerk , Uebing Anselm , Voges Inga
Published: January 2025

T1 relaxation time quantification on parametric maps is routinely used in cardiac imaging and may serve as a non-invasive biomarker for diffuse liver disease. In this study, we aimed to investigate the relationship between liver T1 values and cardiac function in patients with congenital heart disease (CHD) and compared patients with a biventricular circulation (BVC) to those with a Fontan circulation (FC). Magnetic resonance images from patients with CHD, obtained between June and December 2023 on a 1.5 T machine, were retrospectively reviewed. The examinations included cardiac cine sequences to assess ventricular mass and volumes, along with liver T1 mapping. T1 values were measured in eight liver segments and were compared with ventricular mass and volumes in patients with BVC and FC. In total, 104 patients (75 with BVC and 29 with FC) were included. T1 values varied significantly among the eight liver segments in both patient groups. In an age-matched comparison, patients with FC had significantly higher T1 values in all liver segments. In patients with BVC and right ventricular (RV) enlargement, a positive correlation between RV volume and T1 values in the right liver lobe was found (R > 0.504, p < 0.033). In patients with FC, the T1 values did not differ between patients with an extracardiac conduit or a lateral tunnel. Liver T1 mapping suggests more severe liver affection in patients with FC compared to those with BVC. It seems a valuable addition to cardiovascular magnetic resonance for patients who are at risk of systemic venous congestion.
The transcription factor FOXQ1 in cancer
Authors: Koch Stefan
Published: January 2025

FOXQ1 is a member of the large forkhead box (FOX) family of transcription factors that is involved in all aspects of mammalian development, physiology, and pathobiology. FOXQ1 has emerged as a major regulator of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and tumour metastasis in cancers, especially carcinomas of the digestive tract. Accordingly, FOXQ1 induction is recognised as an independent prognostic factor for worse overall survival in several types of cancer, including gastric and colorectal cancer. In this review article, I summarise new evidence on the role of FOXQ1 in cancer, with a focus on molecular mechanisms that control FOXQ1 levels and the regulation of FOXQ1 target genes. Unravelling the functions of FOXQ1 has the potential to facilitate the development of targeted treatments for metastatic cancers.
Understanding Autism as a Condition in Mental Health Clinical Practice: Clinical Perspectives from a Youth Early Psychosis Service
Authors: Porter Caillin , Whitehead Richard , Hopkins Liza
Published: January 2025

Autism is a rapidly growing phenomenon, with rates of diagnosed autism in the community rising every decade. Autism and traits of autism are also regularly part of presentation at youth mental health services, including early psychosis services. In early psychosis services young people’s symptoms tend to be formulated through a psychosis lens, rather than a neurodevelopmental lens which can lead to unnecessary medicalised treatment, and treatment plans that do not consider the possible impact of neurodiversity. The following paper explores autism and traits of autism in relation to youth early psychosis, examining the complexity in accurate formulation, and the possible impacts for young people. Future directions for how services can address this issue and more effectively tailor treatment to young people are also discussed.
Thermodynamics as a framework for understanding gravitational dynamics and quantum gravity
Authors: Alonso-Serrano Ana , Liška Marek
Published: January 2025

We present a review of concepts of thermodynamic of spacetime that allows for an understanding of the gravitational dynamics encoding in it, discussing also the recovery of Weyl transverse gravity instead of General Relativity. We also discuss how these tools can provide some hints in the search of quantum gravity phenomenology, by introducing a formalism to analyze low-energy quantum gravity modifications in a completely general framework based on the thermodynamics of spacetime. For that purpose, we consider quantum gravity effects via a parametrized modification of entropy by an extra logarithmic term in the area, predicted in most of the different approaches to quantum gravity. These results provide a general expression for quantum phenomenological equations of gravitational dynamics.
Effects of the anti-inflammatory pentoxifylline on psychiatric and neuropsychiatric conditions: exploring various off-label utilities with meta-analyses
Authors: Ramzi Ahmed , Maya Subhia , Balousha Nadeen , Amin Mufreh , Powell Robert Charles , Shiha Mostafa Ramzi
Published: January 2025

Background

Chronic inflammation has been linked to many psychiatric disorders, and therefore, pertinent anti-inflammatory therapies have been empirically evaluated for management. An enduring example of long-term safety, attainability, and versatility has been pentoxifylline (PTX). PTX is a phosphodiesterase inhibitor that modulates inflammatory mediators and affects most blood components and the blood vessels.

Methods

Major databases were systematically searched to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on PTX in psychiatric and neuropsychiatric disorders until September 25, 2024.

Results

21 RCTs were included. Five studies evaluated clinical depression: four on major depressive disorder (MDD) and one on bipolar patients experiencing treatment-resistant depression. PTX significantly reduced depressive symptoms in MDD in the four double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trials, with the three studies combining PTX and SSRIs showing statistically significant improvements in response rates. Ten RCTs on cognitive impairment reported beneficial effects, particularly in vascular dementia. Meta-analyses support its efficacy in reducing depressive symptoms, cognitive decline, asthenia, and inflammatory markers.

Conclusion

Exploring the effects of PTX on psychiatric and neuropsychiatric conditions has provided considerable support for its utility across various disorders, most notably in moderate to severe major depressive disorder (as adjunctive therapy with SSRIs) and cognitive impairment in vascular dementia (as monotherapy). Relevantly, the potential of PTX across a wide range of conditions might prove beneficial in cases of co-occurrence.
“Do My Friends Only Like the School Me or the True Me?”: School Belonging, Camouflaging, and Anxiety in Autistic Students
Authors: Atkinson Elizabeth , Wright Sarah , Wood-Downie Henry
Published: January 2025

The prevalence of autistic students in schools is continuously increasing. Typically, the social and sensory differences associated with autism can make the school environment difficult to manage. Autistic students are more likely to experience mental health difficulties than their non-autistic peers. It is therefore important to listen to autistic people about their educational experiences and explore ways that the environment could be changed to reduce anxiety. Purpose. The current research explores whether the relationship between school belonging and anxiety in secondary-aged autistic students is mediated by camouflaging. Methods. An anonymous online survey was completed by 72 autistic students attending mainstream schools in the UK and Ireland. The survey included questionnaires about school belonging (simple sense of belonging scale), anxiety (ASC-ASD) and camouflaging traits (CAT-Q). Further, the survey included open-ended questions about environmental factors related to school belonging and camouflaging. Qualitative content analysis was used to interpret answers to open ended questions. Results. The results found that, as predicted, camouflaging did mediate the relationship between school belonging and anxiety. Categories were created for each question, for example, ‘the school environment’ and ‘acceptance and understanding’. Conclusion. Social relationships; individual factors; the environment and adaptations, and acceptance and understanding, influence students’ sense of belonging.
The Relationship Between Religious Health Fatalism and Healthy Lifestyle Behaviors of Earthquake Victims: The Example of Türkiye
Authors: Tanrıkulu Fatma , Demir Rümeysa , Demir Mustafa
Published: January 2025

Earthquakes are natural disasters that cause physical, psychological, social, and environmental damage. Due to the intense psychological impact, victims of earthquakes may associate a fatalistic approach with religion as a mechanism for seeking protection. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between religious health fatalism and healthy lifestyle behaviors among earthquake victims. A comparative analysis was conducted based on sociodemographic factors to compare average scores. A total of 175 individuals who were affected by the earthquakes that occurred in Türkiye in 2023 participated in this descriptive, cross-sectional, and correlational study. The total Religious Health Fatalism Questionnaire score of the earthquake victims was 54.89 ± 14.68 and Healthy Lifestyle Behaviors Scale-II score was 130.14 ± 19.68. Significant correlations were found between religious health fatalism and healthy lifestyling behaviors of the participating individuals (p < 0.05). It was determined that the independent variables explained 35.7% of the RHFQ score (R2 = 0.357) and 16% of the HLBS-II scale score (R2 = 0.160). Earthquake victims were found to have higher than average levels of religious health fatalism.
Optimising a driving mechanism mechanical design of EXOTIC exoskeleton—a review on upper limb exoskeletons driving systems and a case study
Authors: Falkowski Piotr , Mohammadi Mostafa , Andreasen Struijk Lotte N. S. , Rzymkowski Cezary , Pilat Zbigniew
Published: January 2025

While designing rehabilitation exoskeletons is often realised based on experience and intuition, many processes can be computer-aided. This gives the opportunity to design lighter and more compact constructions. Hence, the devices can be fully wearable and have a wider range of motion. So far, mainly topology optimisation and parametric dimensional optimisations have been used for that. The presented study addresses the problem of automatic selection of the driving systems for exoskeletons. It consists of the literature review of the components used to actuate the joints of such constructions, optimisation algorithm development, and a case study on the EXOTIC exoskeleton. The method includes building a database of motors and gearboxes, computing inverse kinematics of a system to obtain angular trajectories from the task-oriented paths, iteration computing inverse dynamics to compute required torque and the search for the optimal solution according to the defined goal function. This approach enables single joint and multijoint optimisation, with the custom goal function minimising optionally masses, diameters or widths of the selected driving systems. The investigation consists of the 28 simulation trials for EXOTIC exoskeleton to compare results obtained for different aims. Moreover, to visualise the effect, the 1st DOF driving mechanism is redesigned to obtain its minimum width based on the optimisation results. The optimal choice reduced the actuation mechanism mass by 15.3%, while its total dimensions by 17.5%, 8.5% and 26.2%, respectively. The presented approach is easily transferable to any other active exoskeleton and can contribute to designing compact and lightweight constructions. This is particularly important in assistive rehabilitation and can also be used in industrial assistance processes.
Identification, classification, and documentation of drug related problems in community pharmacy practice in Europe: a scoping review
Authors: Hochhold Danielle , Nørgaard Lotte Stig , Stewart Derek , Weidmann Anita Elaine
Published: January 2025

Background

Drug-related problems (DRPs) are significant issues in healthcare contributing to adverse health outcomes and increased healthcare costs. While community pharmacists play a pivotal role in identifying, classifying, and documenting DRPs, there is a need to map approaches undertaken.

Aim

The aim of this scoping review was to examine the approaches to identifying, classifying, and documenting DRPs in community pharmacies in Europe, and their associated barriers and facilitators.

Method

The scoping review was conducted according to the Joanna Briggs Institute guidelines and reported according to the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. The search was conducted across 11 databases from inception until March 2023. Studies of all designs reporting DRPs in European community pharmacies were included. Titles, abstracts, and full texts were screened independently by two researchers, followed by data extraction and synthesis.

Results

The search yielded 67 relevant studies. Forty-eight studies described approaches to DRP identification as predominantly relying on professional knowledge and computer software. The classification methods, described in 41 studies, varied with reports of predefined systems and computer-generated classifications. Documentation approaches were described in 53 studies and were primarily computer-based. Facilitators included electronic support systems, pharmacist experience, while barriers encompassed the complexity of classification as well as variations in training, IT solutions, operational structures, and implementation.

Conclusion

There is a lack of a standardized approach to identifying, classifying, and documenting DRPs in European community pharmacies. A framework for pharmacist education and a time-saving approach to documenting DRPs consistently could serve to overcome the barriers to their identification and documentation. Furthermore, the implementation of a standardised approach to classifying DRPs could facilitate comparison of the management of DRPs across Europe.
Meditations on Ortega y Gasset’s Opaque Dogs: Hunting with Dogs as Inter-Species Affective Scaffolding
Authors: du Toit Jean , Swer Gregory Morgan
Published: January 2025

This paper interprets Ortega y Gasset’s Meditations on Hunting (1972) through the concept of cognitive scaffolding in order to analyse the relationship between hunter and hunting dog as a form of inter-species distributed cognitive system. In recreational hunting, the hunter and the dog engage in a reciprocal process of mutual cognitive scaffolding that transforms both their capacities. It is further argued that this scaffolding also serves as a means of affective regulation, and that it is the affective rather than the cognitive features of the system that point to the function of the scaffolding. Namely, the production of an affective state in the hunter. We detail the ways in which the cognitive and affective features of the scaffold operate and interrelate. We then explore the role of the game-animal in the affective functioning of the scaffold and consider that the hunter-dog system might represent a harmful form of scaffolding.
Evaluation of Pulmonary Function in Long-Term Follow-Up After Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy
Authors: Şahin Hatice , Şahin Murat , Bülbüloğlu Ertan , Kuş Celal , Akkök Burcu , Atilla Nurhan
Published: January 2025

Background

Obesity is one of the most important health problems in the world. It affects all systems, especially the respiratory and cardiovascular systems. Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy is an effective method in the treatment of obesity and can improve respiratory functions. We aimed to evaluate the effects of surgery on pulmonary function in patients with obesity.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on a group of patients who underwent sleeve gastrectomy. This study assessed pre-operative and long-term pulmonary function in patients who underwent laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy between 2009 and 2015, with a minimum follow-up of 10 years. Patients were stratified based on smoking status and presence of comorbidities.

Results

The study included 51 patients (82.4% female) with a mean age of 51.90 ± 11.57 years. Significant weight loss and reductions in BMI were observed postoperatively. Mean pre-operative BMI was 47.53 ± 6.95 and significantly decreased to 37.75 ± 6.02 post-operatively, BMI reduction rate was %22 (p < 0.001). Pulmonary function tests demonstrated significant improvements in FEV1 (2.65 ± 0.69 to 2.76 ± 0.67, p = 0.044), FEV1% (92.07 ± 15.31 to 97.98 ± 14.45, p = 0.001), PEF (74.01 ± 18.12 to 91.53 ± 24.16, p < 0.001), and MEF25-75 (77.17 ± 22.07 to 108.57 ± 28.11 p < 0.001) after surgery. These improvements were consistent across different subgroups, including smokers, non-smokers, and patients with and without comorbidities. Non-smokers exhibited a greater percentage increase in FEV1 compared to smokers. While there was an increase in FEV1 among patients with comorbidities, this difference was not statistically significant. Conversely, patients without comorbidities demonstrated a significant improvement in FEV1.

Conclusion

Bariatric surgery is associated with significant improvements in pulmonary function in obese patients, regardless of smoking status or comorbidities.
Protecting coastal habitats: is a 24-meter isobath ban on purse seines adequate for coastal areas and endangered species?
Authors: Akçay Emre Oğuzhan , Cömert Nurdan , Yıldız Taner
Published: January 2025

The Sea of Marmara (SoM) holds significant importance for both local and regional fisheries due to its characteristic as a semi-enclosed sea on the migratory route of small and medium pelagic fish. While this area sees active fishing with numerous small-scale vessels and approximately 150 purse seiners, there has been a noticeable absence of research on the spatial and temporal distribution of intense fishing pressure in this relatively small sea. Concerns regarding the sustainability of purse seining in the region, specifically in relation to its potential interaction with the seafloor, have emerged over time. This study aimed to assess the spatial and temporal distribution of purse seine fishing effort in the Sea of Marmara (SoM) from 2012 to 2022. The objectives were to identify the locations of concentrated purse seine fishing effort, determine if these clusters were statistically significant hotspots, and uncover any spatio-temporal variations in fishing activity. To address these issues, this study assessed the apparent fishing effort of purse seiners from 2012 to 2022 using data from Global Fishing Watch. Various statistical tools of geographic information systems (ArcGIS and QGIS) were applied to achieve the following. identify the locations where apparent clusters of purse seine fishing effort were concentrated in the SoM; determine if these identified clusters were statistically significant hotspots; and uncover any spatio-temporal variations in fishing activity. The analyses revealed persistent and intensifying purse seine fishing efforts concentrated in the eastern sector of the SoM. This area includes ecologically sensitive habitats and serves as a habitat for vulnerable species, such as Posidonia meadows, Pinna nobilis, and Octocorals. Additionally, it was found that 50% of the fishing effort occurred in areas shallower than 50 m, raising public concerns about the protection of these specific zones. The findings indicate significant and increasing fishing pressure in the eastern sector of the SoM, posing potential risks to sensitive marine habitats and vulnerable species. These results underscore the need for targeted management strategies to ensure the sustainability of purse seine fishing and the protection of critical habitats in the SoM.
Was macht Familie aus?
Authors: Schierbaum Anja , Franzheld Tobias
Published: January 2025

Ausgehend von der Überlegung, dass Familie das Aufwachsen von Kindern und Jugendlichen maßgeblich organisiert, und pädagogische Institutionen ohne einen Familienbezug nicht denkbar sind, wird im Beitrag das Verhältnis von Familie und (sozial)pädagogischen Institutionen eingehender diskutiert. Zunehmend durchdringen sich Familien und Institutionen im Hinblick auf Bedarfs- und Lebenslagen oder beim Zusammenwirken von Bildungs- und Erziehungsaufgaben – ausgerichtet auf die Zielstellung die gesellschaftliche Funktionsfähigkeit von Familie zu stärken oder ihre Bildungsbedeutsamkeit zu unterstützen.
Associations of Perceived School and Year Group Climate with Mental Health Among Children Aged 7-to-11 Years
Authors: Donaldson Caitlyn , Morgan Kelly , Ouerghi Safia , Lewis James J. , Moore Graham
Published: January 2025

Schools are an important setting for interventions to improve mental health. There is growing evidence that school climate – sometimes expressed as the perceptions that children have about the relationships, safety, values, and beliefs within their school – can impact child mental health. Poor child mental health is associated with feelings of distress as well deficits in functioning. However, while most studies have focused on school climate, climate at lower levels of nesting, including year group, may be important. Cross-sectional data on emotional and behavioural difficulties from 32,606 children in primary schools in Wales (ages 7–11, year groups 3–6) were collected via a school survey, delivered online and within the classroom environment to all children who consented, and analysed using multilevel modelling. Models were then extended to consider how aggregated measures of year group and school climate are associated with mental health outcomes. The unadjusted variance partition coefficients (VPCs) indicated that 2.8% of the variance in emotional difficulties and 3.2% in behavioural difficulties were attributable to differences in the year group, while school-level differences represented 2.4% and 3.5%, respectively. More positive year group and school climate were associated with more positive mental health outcomes. School and year group climate are independently associated with primary school children’s mental health. Interventions to support mental health should aim to optimise the whole school climate, as well as climate within year group clusters.
Pyrolysis/Non-thermal Plasma/Catalysis Processing of Refuse-Derived Fuel for Upgraded Oil and Gas Production
Authors: Khatibi Maryam , Nahil Mohamad A. , Williams Paul T.
Published: January 2025

Refuse-derived fuel (RDF) produced from the processing of municipal solid waste (MSW) has a high content of biomass and plastics. Pyrolysis of RDF produces a bio-oil which is highly oxygenated, viscous, acidic with a high moisture content and unsuitable for direct use in conventional combustion systems and consequently requires upgrading. A novel process of pyrolysis with non-thermal plasma/catalysis has been developed to produce de-oxygenated bio-oils and gases from RDF. The volatiles from the pyrolysis stage are passed directly to a non-thermal plasma/catalytic reactor where upgrading of the pyrolysis volatiles takes place. Detailed analysis of the product oils and gases is presented in relation to process conditions and in the presence of different catalysts (TiO₂, MCM-41, ZSM-5, and Al₂O₃). Even in the absence of a catalyst, the presence of the non-thermal plasma resulted in high yields of CO and CO₂ gases and reduced bio-oil oxygen content, confirming deoxygenation of the RDF pyrolysis volatiles. The addition of catalysts MCM-41 and ZSM-5 generated the highest yields of CO, CO₂, and H₂ due to the synergy between catalyst and plasma. The catalysts ranked in terms of total oxygenated oil yield are as follows: MCM-41 < ZSM-5 < TiO₂ < Al₂O₃. Pyrolysis of RDF produces an oil containing oxygenated species from biomass and hydrocarbon species from plastics. The non-thermal plasma generates high energy electrons which generate radicals and intermediates from the pyrolysis volatiles which synergistically interact with the catalysts to enable deoxygenation of the oxygenated hydrocarbons through decarboxylation and decarbonylation reactions.

Graphical Abstract
Sub-Category Generalism About Conspiracy Theories
Authors: Noordhof Paul
Published: January 2025

I argue for a kind of sub-category generalism about conspiracy theories. I identify four features that negatively contribute to the evaluation of any conspiracy theory that has them. I argue that particularism about conspiracy theories is in conflict even with this moderate position. I explain the implications of sub-category generalism for questions about the epistemic environment in which epistemic agents operate. I argue that even if there are pragmatic reasons for being vigilant about the possibility of malign conspiracies, this does not support rejecting the claim that it is a prima facie epistemically wrong to believe a conspiracy with any of the four features I identify. I discuss how the favoured sub-category generalism may help to refine discussion about the relationship between the psychology of those who believe conspiracy theories and subjects who have delusions. There are grounds for thinking that believers in conspiracy theories display irrationality at least as bad as those suffering from delusions. This is not to pathologise believers in conspiracy theories but recognise the continuities between those who have delusions and believers who are not the subject of clinical attention.
Jordan constant of $$\textrm{PGL}_3(K)$$
Authors: Hu Yijue
Published: January 2025

We determine Jordan constants of groups $$\textrm{GL}_2(K),\textrm{SL}_2(K),\textrm{PGL}_2(K)$$

GL
2

(
K
)

,

SL
2

(
K
)

,

PGL
2

(
K
)

and $$\textrm{PGL}_3(K)$$

PGL
3

(
K
)

for any given field K of characteristic 0.
Of thoughts and things: how a new model of evolution explains the coevolution of culture and technology
Authors: Koppl Roger
Published: January 2025

I develop a bioeconomic theory of social institutions that helps to explain the coevolution of ideas, social institutions, and technology. The theory is “bioeconomic” because it traces economic institutions to their biological origins and foundations. The theory draws on a new model of evolution that uses the notion of combination to take Darwinism in new directions. I explain this new model and apply it to the problem of coevolution in economics and other social sciences. The new model builds in part on Brian Arthur’s theory of the “combinatorial evolution” of technology and Stuart Kauffman’s theory of the “adjacent possible.” Central to this new model of evolution is a simple combinatorial equation called the “TAP equation,” where “TAP” stands for “theory of the adjacent possible.” The new model is yielding fruit in a variety of fields including economics.
Optimization of excess energy storage from an islanding micro-hydropower system as an alternative to dump loads
Authors: Ngoma Daniel H. , Masenga Banet , Petro Lucy
Published: January 2025

Energy needs in many parts of the developed world is characterized by high increase in recent years. This is due to the population growth and industrial development which require a substantial amount of energy sources. But studies have shown a different trend for many developing countries especially in Africa where energy needs is increasing steadily and mostly in the urban areas due to the availability of national grid while in the rural and off-grid areas energy demand is supplied with the local available energy resources and technologies eg. solar energy, wind energy, hydropower or biomass energy technologies as well as hybrid energy systems. In the current research study, a water resource in a form of a small river is available in the rural and off-grid villages of the northern Tanzania. So, in this case a microhydro turbine system have been designed and developed to supply the required electrical power to the off-grid villages. The design configuration of the micro-hydro turbine systems consists of a 75 kW hydro turbine system that will supply a load demand of 1,114.38 kWh/day. But studies from the daily energy supply and demand analysis shows a power surplus of 50 kW (at night time) and power deficit of 30 kW (at evening time) from the MHP system. In this scenario the energy storage option have been considered and based on the analysis, hydrogen energy storage has been considered. This new energy storage approach has been proven to increase the energy storage capacity by eliminating 68.37% of the excess energy needed for the dump load and increasing the excess energy storage from 31.63% for the previous battery system to 100% for the hydrogen system.