bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
From scattered data to actionable knowledge: flexible cyber security reporting in the military domain
Authors: Skopik Florian , Bonitz Arndt , Grantz Volker , Göhler Günter
Published: September 2022

Numerous cyber situational awareness models have been proposed in recent years. Yet, one of the main challenges still remains mostly unsolved, which is what information sources contribute to the process for establishing cyber situational awareness and how is relevant information collected. While previous scientific works focused on situational awareness models and decision support based on common operating pictures, ingesting and maintaining a consistent data basis for the cyber domain has rarely been studied in detail. However, this is crucial when data distributed across different systems need to be collected, vetted, correlated, de-duplicated, enriched and finally stored as a basis for flexible cyber security reporting. In this paper, we design an approach and a data model that enable to ingest and store the essential information from disparate organizational units and act as a basis for the flexible creation of cyber security reports. We describe the application of this approach and model in a case study together with the Austrian Ministry of Defense (MoD), in which we surveyed existing data sources and transfer paths and rated the applicability of the CCOP data model and accompanying processes in course of a proof-of-concept implementation.
The two-step average tree value for graph and hypergraph games
Authors: Kang Liying , Khmelnitskaya Anna , Shan Erfang , Talman Dolf , Zhang Guang
Published: September 2022

We introduce the two-step average tree value for transferable utility games with restricted cooperation represented by undirected communication graphs or hypergraphs. The solution can be considered as an alternative for both the average tree solution for graph games and the average tree value for hypergraph games. Instead of averaging players’ marginal contributions corresponding to all admissible rooted spanning trees of the underlying (hyper)graph, which determines the average tree solution or value, we consider a two-step averaging procedure, in which first, for each player the average of players’ marginal contributions corresponding to all admissible rooted spanning trees that have this player as the root is calculated, and second, the average over all players of all the payoffs obtained in the first step is computed. In general these two approaches lead to different solution concepts. Contrary to the average tree value, the new solution satisfies component fairness and the total cooperation equal treatment property on the entire class of hypergraph games. Moreover, the two-step average tree value is axiomatized on the class of semi-cycle-free hypergraph games, which is more general than the class of cycle-free hypergraph games by allowing the underlying hypergraphs to contain certain cycles. The two-step average tree value is also core stable on the subclass of superadditive semi-cycle-free hypergraph games.
Extracellular vesicles derived from bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells loaded on magnetic nanoparticles delay the progression of diabetic osteoporosis via delivery of miR-150-5p
Authors: Xu Chen , Wang Zhaodong , Liu Yajun , Wei Bangguo , Liu Xiangyu , Duan Keyou , Zhou Pinghui , Xie Zhao , Wu Min , Guan Jianzhong
Published: September 2022

Extracellular vesicles derived from bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSC-EVs) are emerged as carriers of therapeutic targets against bone disorders, yet its isolation and purification are limited with recent techniques. Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) can load EVs with a unique targeted drug delivery system. We constructed gold-coated magnetic nanoparticles (GMNPs) by decorating the surface of the Fe3O4@SiO2 core and a silica shell with poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG)-aldehyde (CHO) and examined the role of BMSC-EVs loaded on GMNPs in diabetic osteoporosis (DO). The osteoporosis-related differentially expressed miR-150-5p was singled out by microarray analysis. DO models were then established in Sprague–Dawley rats by streptozotocin injection, where poor expression of miR-150-5p was validated in the bone tissues. Next, GMNPE was prepared by combining GMNPs with anti-CD63, after which osteoblasts were co-cultured with the GMNPE-BMSC-EVs. The re-expression of miR-150-5p facilitated osteogenesis in osteoblasts. GMNPE could promote the enrichment of EVs in the bone tissues of DO rats. BMSC-EVs delivered miR-150-5p to osteoblasts, where miR-150-5p targeted MMP14 and consequently activated Wnt/β-catenin pathway. This effect contributed to the enhancement of osteoblast proliferation and maturation. Furthermore, GMNPE enhanced the EV-based delivery of miR-150-5p to regulate the MMP14/Wnt/β-catenin axis, resulting in promotion of osteogenesis. Overall, our findings suggest the potential of GMNP-BMSC-EVs to strengthen osteoblast proliferation and maturation in DO, showing promise as an appealing drug delivery strategy against DO.

Graphical abstract

1. GMNPs-BMSCs-EVs-miR-150-5p promotes the osteogenesis of DO rats.

2. miR-150-5p induces osteoblast proliferation and maturation by targeting MMP14.

3. Inhibition of MMP14 activates Wnt/β-catenin and increases osteogenesis.

4. miR-150-5p activates the Wnt/β-catenin pathway by downregulating MMP14.
Knowledge-building in an environment mediated by digital technology: A case study in higher education
Authors: Martín-Lucas Judith , García del Dujo Ángel
Published: September 2022

The advancement of technology in recent years seems to be prompting a re-ontologising of the world. Digital technology is transforming the educational spaces we inhabit, as well as our way of processing information. Although there are already numerous studies that have addressed this technological reality, only a handful have done so from a theoretical perspective. That is why we present research that seeks to reinforce the latest theoretical contributions for understanding how modern technology may be affecting the way in which knowledge is built. Based on the latest research in social constructivism, this is a qualitative study designed to contribute to the creation of a specific theoretical framework for an onlife world. An ill-structured task and a semi-structured interview were used to observe the use of the thinking skills that enable us to build knowledge and the relationship between them. The results show that the ways of building knowledge are changing, as digital technology fosters the use of higher-order thinking skills that, furthermore, operate in a chaotic, complex, and unpredictable manner. In conclusion, this study upholds the notion that the ways of building knowledge are changing, but we still need more empirical contributions to create a generally accepted theoretical construct for explaining how we build knowledge through digital technology.
Discrimination and Harassment Experiences of Autistic College Students and Their Neurotypical Peers: Risk and Protective Factors
Authors: Kim Sohyun An , Baczewski Lauren , Pizzano Maria , Kasari Connie , Sturm Alexandra
Published: September 2022

This study examines autistic and non-autistic college students’ experiences of discrimination and harassment and identifies protective and risk factors. A nationwide survey was used to match autistic students (N = 290) and non-autistic students (N = 290) on co-occurring diagnoses and demographic characteristics. Multiple regression and interaction analysis revealed that faculty support was protective against discrimination and harassment regardless of autism status. Habits of mind was particularly protective for autistic students against harassment. Any student who engaged in school-facilitated events was more likely to experience discrimination and harassment, but the risk was heightened for autistic students. Findings highlight the importance of faculty support in fostering positive interpersonal experiences on campus, and demonstrate the need to address deeper college campus issues with respect to neurodiversity.
Ex situ synthesis of MOF@PET/cotton textile fibers as potential antibacterial materials
Authors: Torres-Cortés Sergio Alejandro , Velasquez Mauricio , Pérez León Darío , Sierra César A.
Published: September 2022

There is considerable scientific literature on MOF-based antibacterial textiles, especially with in situ methodologies for their synthesis. On the contrary, the ex situ synthesis of MOFs on fabrics has been little explored. Although, the latter may have more significant advantages when the expectation is to scale up the process industrially. The present study describes the synthesis of ex situ obtained MOF-199 and MOF-UiO-66-NH2 onto carboxylated polyester/cotton (PETco) textile fibers and their preliminary-qualitative analysis as potential antibacterial textiles. For this, free synthesized MOFs were anchored on a previously carboxylated PETco fiber, using conditions that seek the formation of coordination bonds between the carboxyl groups of the fiber and the metal in the MOF. After soxhlet purification with water and methanol for more than 48 h, analysis by FTIR-ATR and XRD shows the superposition of signals typical of the fiber and the MOF, resembling what was previously reported for cotton-MOF systems. XPS showed 4.47% Cu, with Cu–O-C interactions for MOF-199@PETco, and 12.06% Zr, with Zr-O-C interactions for MOF UiO-66-NH2@PETco. Results corroborated by the SEM micrographs, which show the expected morphology for MOF-199, and homogeneously distributed MOF UiO-66-NH2 crystals when they are anchored to the fiber.
Better off without? Benefits and costs of resolving goal conflict through goal shelving and goal disengagement
Authors: Mayer Zita , Freund Alexandra M.
Published: September 2022

Pursuing multiple goals with limited time often leads to goal conflicts that can be resolved by prioritizing some goal pursuits over others. This research examines proximal outcomes of two approaches to goal prioritization: Goal shelving (temporarily withdrawing from a goal) and goal disengagement (permanently withdrawing from a goal). We conducted an experiment (N = 214) to compare motivational and emotional consequences of resolving goal conflict through goal shelving and disengagement. Results suggest that goal shelving and disengagement are similarly effective at reducing different facets of experienced goal conflict, but people regret shelving goals less than disengaging from them. Together, these findings provide first evidence that goal shelving may allow people to “have their cake and eat it too:” to reap the benefits of goal prioritization while minimizing its costs.
Subject pro-drop and past-tense auxiliary clitics in South-Western Ukrainian
Authors: Fellerer Jan
Published: September 2022

South-Western Ukrainian dialects have retained the option of auxiliary clitics in the formation of the past tense. At the same time, they have past-tense forms without auxiliary clitics as in Northern Ukrainian dialects, and in Standard Ukrainian based on South-Eastern dialects. A sample corpus study suggests that South-Western Ukrainian also shows a higher frequency of subjectpro-drop than Standard Ukrainian. The South-Western Ukrainian pattern presents the precise mirror image of the same two features in South-Eastern ‘Borderland’ Polish. Here, the dialect adopted the option of past-tense forms without auxiliary clitics, next to those with them as in Standard Polish. At the same time, it shows a higher frequency of non-pro-drop than Standard Polish. I argue that these matching facts are the result of long- standing language contact that worked simultaneously in two directions: the increase in the use of an existing dialectal Ukrainian pattern under Polish influence, as well as the increase in the use of an existing dialectal Polish pattern under Ukrainian influence. As a result, both dialects show the same variation between past-tense forms with auxiliary clitics and without them, and they have mutually converging tendencies in subjectpro-drop – the Ukrainian dialect adapting towards Polishpro-drop, and the Polish dialect towards Ukrainian non-pro- drop. The bi-directionality of influence in the SWU dialectal area, thus, goes beyond other, unidirectional language-contact scenarios.
Unbalanced exposure: existentialism, Marxism, and philosophical culture in state socialist Hungary
Authors: Takács Adam
Published: September 2022

Existentialism and existentialist thinkers enjoyed sustained interest in Hungary under communist rule. From the late 1940s to the late 1980s, this branch of “bourgeois philosophy” never ceased to generate renewed attention. However, this reception was not subsumed into the ideological orthodoxy, nor was it simply destined to fuel Marxist–Leninist criticism. Whereas Georg Lukács’s polemics with existentialism in the 1940s set the agenda to embrace a highly critical reception, it was precisely Sartre’s influence in the 1960s that had opened the door for a more open-minded Marxist reading of existentialist thinkers in Hungary. This paper seeks to reconstruct the intellectual motifs and contexts that underlie this uncommon development. In focusing predominantly on the period of the 1960–1980s, I am particularly interested in exploring Lukács’s role in the changing attitude towards existentialism in Hungary; the controversies between various Marxist approaches dealing with existentialist thinkers and the ways which the influence of Sartre, de Beauvoir, and Camus in literary circles influenced the tenor of their philosophical reception. Through this exploration, I will seek to provide a deep insight into one of the richest intellectual landscapes of the philosophical culture in state socialist Hungary.
Why homoeopathy is pseudoscience
Authors: Mukerji Nikil , Ernst Edzard
Published: September 2022

Homoeopathy is commonly recognised as pseudoscience. However, there is, to date, no systematic discussion that seeks to establish this view. In this paper, we try to fill this gap. We explain the nature of homoeopathy, discuss the notion of pseudoscience, and provide illustrative examples from the literature indicating why homoeopathy fits the bill. Our argument contains a conceptual and an empirical part. In the conceptual part, we introduce the premise that a doctrine qualifies as a pseudoscience if, firstly, its proponents claim scientific standing for it and, secondly, if they produce bullshit to defend it, such that, unlike science, it cannot be viewed as the most reliable knowledge on its topic. In the empirical part, we provide evidence that homoeopathy fulfils both criteria. The first is quickly established since homoeopaths often explicitly claim scientificity. To establish the second, we dive into the pseudo-academic literature on homoeopathy to provide evidence of bullshit in the arguments of homoeopaths. Specifically, we show that they make bizarre ontological claims incompatible with natural science, illegitimately shift the burden of proof to sceptics, and mischaracterise, cherry-pick, and misreport the evidence. Furthermore, we demonstrate that they reject essential parts of established scientific methodology and use epistemically unfair strategies to immunise their doctrine against recalcitrant evidence.
Comparative study of immunological biomarkers in the carpet shell clams (Ruditapes decussatus) from metal-contaminated sites in the South Lagoon of Tunis (Tunisia)
Authors: Mansour Chalbia , Esteban María Ángeles , Hacene Omar Rouane , Mosbahi Dalila Saidane , Guardiola Francisco Antonio
Published: September 2022

The South Lagoon of Tunis (Tunisia) is a Mediterranean lagoon adversely affected by industrial contaminants, harbour activity and untreated urban sewage. In this lagoon, the clam Ruditapes decussatus has been widely used as a biomonitor of seawater pollution through measurements of parameters related to oxidative stress and neurotoxicity. However, few studies have considered parameters of the immune system of this species in the South Lagoon of Tunis. Therefore, the aim of the present work was to evaluate several immune-related parameters in the cell-free haemolymph of carpet shell clams sampled during August and February from three polluted sites in the South Lagoon of Tunis (S1, S2 and S3) and one less polluted site as a reference site (RS) in order to identify suitable biomarkers for environmental quality assessments of this ecosystem. Concerning the immune-related parameters, seasonal factors modulated phenoloxidase, lysozyme, protease and esterase activity, with lower values measured for samples collected in August than for samples collected in February. In fact, bactericidal activity against two of the pathogenic bacteria tested and the activity of most immune-related enzymes were reduced in the cell-free haemolymph of clams collected from the most sampling sites in August compared to February one. In addition, values of abiotic parameters (temperature, salinity and pH) and metal (cadmium, copper, iron, lead and zinc) concentrations in the clams’ soft tissues, previously obtained and published by the authors, as well as the values of immune-related parameters were integrated using principal component analyses. Results indicated that the values of all measured immune-related parameters were negatively correlated with the temperature values and the variations most of these parameters highlighted that the chemical industrial area (S3) was the most impacted location within the South Lagoon of Tunis. The present study illustrates that the immune-related parameters measured in carpet shell clam cell-free haemolymph represent suitable biomarkers for environmental quality assessments because they provide effective seasonal and spatial discrimination.
The Role of Early Adaptive Schemas in Heterosexual Romantic Relationships
Authors: Sundgren Madison , Allen Andrew
Published: September 2022

The current study aimed to examine the emerging role of early adaptive schemas within heterosexual romantic relationships. In accordance with schema theory, it was hypothesised that endorsing greater early adaptive schemas would predict higher levels of relationship quality. A total of 941 heterosexual adults (age,M = 32.44 years), who identified as being in a current romantic relationship (relationship duration,M = 7.92 years), completed questionnaires online. Early adaptive schemas were measured using the Young Positive Schema Questionnaire. Relationship quality was measured by relationship and sexual satisfaction. Hierarchical multiple regression analyses revealed that, after controlling for potential confounding variables, higher levels of the early adaptive schemas of Emotional Fulfilment and Self-Care predicted greater relationship and sexual satisfaction. The current findings suggest that specific early adaptive schemas may be beneficial for bolstering romantic relationship quality in heterosexual relationships. This preliminary evidence may inform the development of a more holistic schema-based couple therapy intervention. Specifically, one which incorporates the enhancement of early adaptive schemas to promote sexual and relationship wellbeing in couples. Future research is required to elucidate the explanatory mechanisms and to examine whether integrating early adaptive schemas into schema therapy does indeed have a positive effect on therapy outcomes.
Seasonality of incident types in transport crime – Analysis of TAPA statistics
Authors: Ekwall Daniel , Lantz Björn
Published: September 2022

This paper examines weekly and annual seasonality in incident categories to find patterns and trends in transport crime globally, concerning the value of stolen goods, incident frequency and incident category. Secondary data is utilized to analyse a contemporary challenge in logistics and supply chain research, namely theft and robbery of goods during shipment. The research is based on the TAPA global IIS transport-related crime database. Incident frequencies and mean values are analysed primarily with chi-square tests and analyses of variance (ANOVAs). The results are analysed and discussed within a frame of reference consisting of theories from logistics and criminology. The main conclusion is that there is an annual as well as a weekly seasonality of most incident categories, but the patterns vary among incident categories. The results are primarily limited by the content and classification within the TAPA IIS database.
Human Cadaveric Model for Vessel Preparation Device Testing in Calcified Tibial Arteries
Authors: Benfor Bright , Sinha Kavya , Karmonik Christof , Lumsden Alan B. , Roy Trisha L.
Published: September 2022

To describe an ex vivo model for vessel preparation device testing in tibial arteries. We performed orbital atherectomy (OA), intravascular lithotripsy (IVL), and plain balloon angioplasty (POBA) on human amputated limbs with evidence of concentric tibial artery calcification. The arterial segments were then harvested for ex vivo processing which included imaging with microCT, decalcification, and histology. The model was tested out in 15 limbs and was successful in 14 but had to be aborted in 1/15 case due to inability to achieve wire access. A total of 22 lesions were treated with OA on 3/22 lesions, IVL on 8/22, and POBA without vessel preparation on the remaining 11/22. Luminal gain was assessed with intravascular ultrasound and histology was able to demonstrate plaque disruption, dissections, and cracks within the calcified lesions. A human cadaveric model using amputated limbs is a feasible, high-fidelity option for evaluating the performance of vessel preparation devices in calcified tibial arteries.
Researches on influence of wood sanding direction on wood gluing
Authors: Bembenek Michał
Published: September 2022

The wood surface quality is most determined by the way in which it has been processed before and by the tools used for this purpose. Machining has its effect primarily on the structural shape of the surface formed after the tool–wood contact and also on the roughness of the surface obtained after a specific process. In most cases, wood surfaces of elements which are materials or semi-finished products used for further processes, including gluing or painting, are sanded with sandpaper of various grit sizes on belt sanders. This causes the structure formed on the wood surface to be unidirectional. No information is available in the literature on the influence of the direction of the post-processing structure of the glued surfaces on the gluing process. Therefore, this was the subject of this research study. Two kinds of wood glues were used, and three gluing pressures were applied. Contrary to what was expected, the effect of the mutual position of post sanding surface structures during the gluing operation on the amount of glue in the connection turned out to be of small significance. In an extreme case, the difference of a necessary minimum amount of glue was 15.1% for the same type of connection and a different position of the glued surfaces against each other. However, the kind of the glue being used and the gluing pressure have been found to have a significant effect on its amount necessary to produce a good connection.
Design and power calculation of HLFC suction system for a subsonic short-range aircraft
Authors: Prasannakumar Adarsh , Wolff Johannes , Radespiel Rolf , Boermans Loek , Hühne Christian , Badrya Camli
Published: September 2022

Hybrid laminar flow control (HLFC) can be a possible solution for future sustainable energy-efficient aviation. The current study proposes a MATLAB-based numerical tool for the design of the suction system for an airfoil optimized for a subsonic short-range HLFC application. Considerable energy losses may occur when the air passes through the perforated metallic outer surface and the inner structure of the suction system. A semi-empirical approach is used to design a layout that provides a target suction velocity based on measured pressure losses through porous medium and substructures. Flowbench measurements were performed on 3D-printed internal core test samples to quantify the pressure losses that can be used to create a lower pressure below the porous sheet matching the target suction velocity. The actual suction realized on the airfoil using this substructure concept has a discrete nature that increases with the distance between two adjacent walls. Finally, the suction system’s power requirement is calculated. The power requirement for distributed suction accounts for the pressure loss characteristics of the porous material, the internal core structure, and throttling holes. However, the study does not include the ducting losses from the substructure to the compressor. Approximately 80% of the total suction power is utilized to eject the sucked air back to the freestream conditions for a system with a compressor and propulsive system efficiency equal to one. The study analyses the performance of the designed internal core layout to different flight conditions and addresses the suction power requirement variation with lift coefficient and flight altitude.
Long-term stability of a life insurer’s balance sheet
Authors: Diehl Maximilian , Horsky Roman , Reetz Susanne , Sass Jörn
Published: September 2022

In this paper, we devise a stochastic asset–liability management (ALM) model for a life insurance company and analyze its influence on the balance sheet within a low-interest rate environment. In particular, a flexible procedure for the generation of insurers’ compressed contract portfolios that respects the given biometric structure is presented, extending the existing literature on stochastic ALM modeling. The introduced balance sheet model is in line with the principles of double-entry bookkeeping as required in accounting. We further focus on the incorporation of new business, i.e. the addition of newly concluded contracts and thus of insured in each period. Efficient simulations are obtained by integrating new policies into existing cohorts according to contract-related criteria. We provide new results on the consistency of the balance sheet equations. In extensive simulation studies for different scenarios regarding the business form of today’s life insurers, we utilize these to analyze the long-term behavior and the stability of the components of the balance sheet for different asset–liability approaches. Finally, we investigate the robustness of two prominent investment strategies against crashes in the capital markets, which lead to extreme liquidity shocks and thus threaten the insurer’s financial health.
Impulse response of commensurate fractional-order systems: multiple complex poles
Authors: Biolek Dalibor , Garrappa Roberto , Biolková Viera
Published: September 2022

The impulse response of a fractional-order system with the transfer function $$s^{\delta }/{[(s^{\alpha }-a)^2+b^2]^n}$$

s
δ

/

[

(

s
α

-
a
)

2

+

b
2

]

n

, where $$n \in \mathbb {N}$$

n
∈
N

, $$a \in {\mathbb {R}}$$

a
∈
R

, $$b \in {\mathbb {R}}^+$$

b
∈

R

+

, $$\alpha \in {\mathbb {R}}^+$$

α
∈

R

+

, $$\delta \in {\mathbb {R}}$$

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, is derived via real and imaginary parts of two-parameter Mittag-Leffler functions and their derivatives. With the aid of a robust algorithm for evaluating these derivatives, the analytic formulas can be used for an effective transient analysis of fractional-order systems with multiple complex poles. By some numerical experiments it is shown that this approach works well also when the popular SPICE-family simulating programs fail to converge to a correct solution.
Können moderne Therapieoptionen den Anforderungen junger BPH-Patienten gerecht werden?
Authors: Wetterauer Christian , Seifert Helge , Ebbing Jan
Published: September 2022

Bereits viele junge Männer leiden unter prostatogenen Miktionsbeschwerden. Häufig kann eine medikamentöse Therapie die Beschwerden lindern oder beseitigen. Bei persistierenden Beschwerden oder als Alternative zur medikamentösen Therapie kann eine interventionelle Therapie zum Einsatz kommen. Klassischen Verfahren, wie die transurethrale Resektion der Prostata (TUR-P), gehen aber mit erhöhter Morbidität und bei fast 3 von 4 Männern mit Einschränkungen der Sexualfunktion einher. Als Alternative stehen moderne Therapiemethoden zur Verfügung, die es ermöglichen, eine signifikante Verbesserung der funktionellen Parameter zu erzielen und gleichzeitig die Sexualfunktion zu schonen. Diese individuellen Therapieoptionen können auf die jeweiligen Patientencharakteristika unter Berücksichtigung der Patientenpräferenzen abgestimmt werden (patientenzentrierter Behandlungsansatz) und angeboten werden, wenn konservative Maßnahmen nicht ausreichen bzw. mit unerwünschten Nebenwirkungen verbunden sind oder der Patient einen invasiveren Eingriff und/oder die damit verbundenen Risiken vermeiden möchte.

Die aktuell vorliegenden Studienergebnisse zeigen, dass die modernen Therapietechniken eine sichere Alternative zu etablierteren, operativen Verfahren, wie der TUR‑P, darstellen. Allerdings müssen für einige dieser neueren Verfahren noch weitere Langzeitdaten und Vergleichsstudien abgewartet werden.

Dieser Artikel gibt einen Überblick über ausgewählte moderne, nichtablative Techniken (prostatisch-urethraler Lift [PUL] und temporär implantierbares Nitinolkörbchen [iTind™]) und (wassergestützte) ablative Verfahren (Wasserstrahlablation [Aquabeam™] und Wassersdampfinjektion [Rezum™]) und beleuchtet deren Effektivität hinsichtlich funktioneller Ergebnisse und dem Erhalt der Sexualfunktion.
Improving genetic algorithms for solving the SVP: focusing on low memory consumption and high reproducibility
Authors: Fukase Masaharu , Kaminaga Masahiro
Published: September 2022

The shortest vector problem (SVP) is absolutely essential in lattice-based cryptography. In this paper, we significantly improve genetic algorithms (GAs) for solving the SVP. GAs, which are simple and powerful optimization techniques, that have the potential to eliminate the limitations of the existing fast SVP algorithms. We improve the entire phase of the GA construction. Our proposed method is based on the concept of low memory consumption and high reproducibility, and this is the main and significant difference between our algorithm and the other SVP algorithms. Our contributions are twofold. First, we developed a new GA for solving the SVP and achieved a considerable improvement in the running time performance. Second, we interpreted certain genetic operations, such as mutation and crossover, in the context of lattices, which has not been done in previous studies. The general result of this paper is that we showed the potential of GAs in the field of lattices.
Setting the Seeds for a Normative Expansion of Lewinian Field Theory for Cultural-Psychological Practitioners
Authors: von Fircks Enno
Published: September 2022

In the present article, I am examining, expanding, and re-evaluating a Lewinian kind of cultural psychology for cultural-psychological informed practitioners. Originating from Lewinian field theory that behavior is a function of a person and environment, B(f) = P,E, I am introducing a specific equation wanting to illustrate Lewin’s theory about cultural psychology. A person is driven by specific needs and goals that develop while him relating to his very own environment. Yet, how these needs and goals are pursued and satisfied (I call that trajectories) depends to a large degree upon his social environment showing him not only which goals are worth pursuing but also which ways to choose in order to attain them. Culture is thus a function of a person’s needs and goals that develop while him relating to his environment and henceforth to the life space of the social other—such as to one’s family—but also implying a specific unique social situatedness within the environment that can alter the culturally accepted way how to reach a specific goal. It is within such a perspective that I deduce a normative appeal character of cultural psychology grounded within Lewinian field theory that can be made fertile for people identifying as cultural-psychological practitioners. In the second part of the article, I am comparing a Lewinian (normative) understanding of cultural psychology with other prominent theories such as the one of Boesch, Bruner, and Valsiner reaching the conclusion that such a Lewinian understanding of cultural psychology is in accordance with their theories.
There Is no Theory-Free Measure of “Swaps” in Visual Working Memory Experiments
Authors: Williams Jamal R. , Robinson Maria M. , Brady Timothy F.
Published: September 2022

Visual working memory is highly limited, and its capacity is tied to many indices of cognitive function. For this reason, there is much interest in understanding its architecture and the sources of its limited capacity. As part of this research effort, researchers often attempt to decompose visual working memory errors into different kinds of errors, with different origins. One of the most common kinds of memory error is referred to as a “swap,” where people report a value that closely resembles an item that was not probed (e.g., an incorrect, non-target item). This is typically assumed to reflect confusions, like location binding errors, which result in the wrong item being reported. Capturing swap rates reliably and validly is of great importance because it permits researchers to accurately decompose different sources of memory errors and elucidate the processes that give rise to them. Here, we ask whether different visual working memory models yield robust and consistent estimates of swap rates. This is a major gap in the literature because in both empirical and modeling work, researchers measure swaps without motivating their choice of swap model. Therefore, we use extensive parameter recovery simulations with three mainstream swap models to demonstrate how the choice of measurement model can result in very large differences in estimated swap rates. We find that these choices can have major implications for how swap rates are estimated to change across conditions. In particular, each of the three models we consider can lead to differential quantitative and qualitative interpretations of the data. Our work serves as a cautionary note to researchers as well as a guide for model-based measurement of visual working memory processes.
Formable porous biochar loaded with La-Fe(hydr)oxides/montmorillonite for efficient removal of phosphorus in wastewater: process and mechanisms
Authors: Sun Enhui , Zhang Yanyang , Xiao Qingbo , Li Huayong , Qu Ping , Yong Cheng , Wang Bingyu , Feng Yanfang , Huang Hongying , Yang Linzhang , Hunter Charles
Published: September 2022

The development of biochar-based granule-like adsorbents suitable for scaled-up application has been attracting increasing attention in the field of water treatment. Herein, a new formable porous granulated biochar loaded with La-Fe(hydr)oxides/montmorillonite (LaFe/MB) was fabricated via a granulation and pyrolysis process for enhanced phosphorus (P) removal from wastewater. Montmorillonite acted as a binder that increased the size of the granulated biochar, while the use of Fe promoted the surface charge and facilitated the dispersion of La, which was responsible for selective phosphate removal. LaFe/MB exhibited rapid phosphate adsorption kinetics and  a high maximum adsorption capacity (Langmuir model, 52.12 mg P g−1), which were better than those of many existing granulated materials. The desorption and recyclability experiments showed that LaFe/MB could be regenerated, and maintained 76.7% of its initial phosphate adsorption capacity after four adsorption cycles. The high hydraulic endurance strength retention rate of the developed material (91.6%) suggested high practical applicability in actual wastewater. Electrostatic attraction, surface precipitation, and inner-sphere complexation via ligand exchange were found to be involved in selective P removal over a wide pH range of 3–9. The thermodynamic parameters were determined, which revealed the feasibility and spontaneity of adsorption. Based on approximate site energy distribution analyses, high distribution frequency contributed to efficient P removal. The research results provide a new insight that LaFe/MB shows great application prospects for advanced phosphate removal from wastewater.

Graphical Abstract
Stable Two-Sided Satisfied Matching for Hospitals and Patients Based on the Disappointment Theory
Authors: Wang Xiaojia , Wang Rong , Zhang Shanshan , Liu Junhang , Jiang Li
Published: September 2022

With the global spread of COVID-19 and the shortage of medical resources, the key to improve the quality of medical services is to solve the problem of hospital–patient matching. This paper constructs a two-sided matching (TSM) model based on the psychological perceptions of hospitals and patients to realize effective matching that maximizes the satisfaction of hospitals and patients. First, we determine the influencing factors of mutual choice between hospitals and patients through investigation and literature and establish a TSM evaluation system to obtain the preference order of hospitals and patients. Then, using disappointment theory, the preference order value is transformed into preference utility, and the preference utility of hospitals and patients is transformed into the perceived utility of hospital and patient satisfaction. Finally, under the constraint of stable matching, a multiobjective optimization model of TSM is established with the goal of maximizing the sum of the perceived utility of hospitals and patients. The optimal TSM results are obtained by solving the model, and an example is given to verify the practicability and effectiveness of the model. The results show that the stable bilateral satisfaction matching model considering the psychological factors of both sides can fully meet the expectations of hospitals and patients and has certain practical value.
Wound-related procedural pain management in a resource limited setting: Systematic review
Authors: Admassie Belete Muluadam , Ferede Yonas Admasu , Tegegne Biresaw Ayen , Lema Girmay Fitiwi , Admass Biruk Adie
Published: September 2022

Abstract

Background

Wound care procedures, commonly performed on open wounds, are associated with moderate to severe pain. Untreated or poorly controlled pain during the procedure affects patient’s quality of life. The aim of this review was to develop evidence-based protocol for pain management of wound-related procedural pain in a resource limited setting.

Methods

After formulating the key questions, scope, and eligibility criteria for the articles to be included, advanced search strategy of electronic sources from data bases and websites was conducted. Screening of literatures was conducted with proper appraisal checklist. This review was reported in accordance with preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) 2020 statement.

Results

A total of 266 articles were identified from data bases and websites using an electronic search. 42 articles were removed for duplication and 58 studies were excluded after reviewing titles and abstracts. At the screening stage, 68 articles were retrieved and evaluated for eligibility. Finally, 33 studies met the eligibility criteria and were included in this systematic review.

Conclusion

Managing wound-related procedural pain improves patient’s quality of life. Proper assessment and monitoring of the pain is a key concept. Non-pharmacological strategies are equally important in managing the pain as drugs. Control of the baseline pain is essential to control the breakthrough pain associated with wound procedures. Stratifying risks for wound care related pain and appropriate intervention are important for good quality of care.

Highlights
Nonfatal, Nonpredatory Jaguar Attacks in Brazil: A Case Series
Authors: Haddad Vidal , Francisco de Campos Neto Manoel , Barreiros João Pedro
Published: September 2022

The jaguar, Panthera onca (Linnaeus, 1758), is the biggest felid in the Americas. Its range extends from the southwestern United States to northern Argentina. Herein, we present 5 nonfatal jaguar attacks that occurred in Brazil between March 2010 and November 2021. Most of the cases occurred when the victim encountered a jaguar guarding its food or cubs or devouring prey; none appeared to be the result of predatory behavior.
Determinates of Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) testing practices among inpatients with diarrhea at selected acute-care hospitals in Rochester, New York, and Atlanta, Georgia, 2020–2021
Authors: Fridkin Scott K. , Onwubiko Udodirim N. , Dube William , Robichaux Chad , Traenkner Jessica , Goodenough Dana , Angulo Frederick J. , Zamparo Joann M. , Gonzalez Elisa , Khanna Sahil , Myers Christopher , Dumyati Ghinwa
Published: September 2022

Objective:

We evaluated the impact of test-order frequency per diarrheal episodes on Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) incidence estimates in a sample of hospitals at 2 CDC Emerging Infections Program (EIP) sites.

Design:

Observational survey.

Setting:

Inpatients at 5 acute-care hospitals in Rochester, New York, and Atlanta, Georgia, during two 10-workday periods in 2020 and 2021.

Outcomes:

We calculated diarrhea incidence, testing frequency, and CDI positivity (defined as any positive NAAT test) across strata. Predictors of CDI testing and positivity were assessed using modified Poisson regression. Population estimates of incidence using modified Emerging Infections Program methodology were compared between sites using the Mantel-Hanzel summary rate ratio.

Results:

Surveillance of 38,365 patient days identified 860 diarrhea cases from 107 patient-care units mapped to 26 unique NHSN defined location types. Incidence of diarrhea was 22.4 of 1,000 patient days (medians, 25.8 for Rochester and 16.2 for Atlanta; P < .01). Similar proportions of diarrhea cases were hospital onset (66%) at both sites. Overall, 35% of patients with diarrhea were tested for CDI, but this differed by site: 21% in Rochester and 49% in Atlanta (P < .01). Regression models identified location type (ie, oncology or critical care) and laxative use predictive of CDI test ordering. Adjusting for these factors, CDI testing was 49% less likely in Rochester than Atlanta (adjusted rate ratio, 0.51; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.40–0.63). Population estimates in Rochester had a 38% lower incidence of CDI than Atlanta (summary rate ratio, 0.62; 95% CI, 0.54–0.71).

Conclusion:

Accounting for patient-specific factors that influence CDI test ordering, differences in testing practices between sites remain and likely contribute to regional differences in surveillance estimates.
An outbreak of Burkholderia contaminans at a quaternary children’s hospital linked to equipment reprocessing
Authors: Teoh Zheyi , Ankrum Andrea L. , Meinzen-Derr Jareen , Weingartner MaryAnn , Goebel Mary Jo , Scaggs Huang Felicia , Schaffzin Joshua K.
Published: September 2022

Burkholderia cepacia complex (BCC) has been increasingly implicated in local and multistate outbreaks in both adult and pediatric healthcare settings. However, a lack of source identification may be common for BCC outbreak investigations. We describe, in detail, the investigation of an outbreak of BCC (B. contaminans) among pediatric patients at a large quaternary-care children’s hospital and our system-level changes and outcomes.
Short-term effects of sugar-free apricot jam, cocoa powder and dried cranberry cereal bar on glycaemic responses in healthy adults: a randomised clinical trial
Authors: Papakonstantinou Emilia , Magriplis Emmanuella , Katsaros George , Glinou Dimitra , Sofiadis Manolis , Skoulidi Virginia , Zampelas Antonis
Published: September 2022

High sugar intake has been associated with adverse effects on health, with some types of breakfast being highly linked to overweight and obesity. The aim was to compare the effects of four sugar-free breakfast items, apricot jam with white bread (JWB), white bread (WB), cocoa with fat-free milk (CM), and dried cranberry cereal bar (CB), compared to d-glucose on the glycaemic responses. Using a cross-over design, twelve healthy individuals (25 ± 4 years; BMI 22 ± 2 kg/m2) received isoglucidic test meals (25 g of available carbohydrate) and 25 g glucose reference, in random order. Glycaemic index/load (GI/GL) were calculated, and capillary blood glucose samples were collected at 0–120 min after meal consumption. Subjective appetite was assessed with visual analogue scales. Sugar-free apricot jam and cocoa powder contained traces of available carbohydrates and were consumed along with bread and fat-free milk, respectively. JWB and WB were classified as medium GI, low-to-medium GL; CM as medium GI, low GL; and CB as high GI, low-to-medium GL. Subjective hunger was lower after JWB, fullness was higher after CM and pleasure was higher after CB (P for all < 0⋅05). In conclusion, sugar-free apricot jam with and without WB and cocoa powder with fat-free milk are suitable healthy breakfast options leading to improved glycaemic and subjective appetite responses.
Limit theory for U-statistics under geometric and topological constraints with rare events
Authors: Owada Takashi
Published: September 2022

We study the geometric and topological features of U-statistics of order k when the k-tuples satisfying geometric and topological constraints do not occur frequently. Using appropriate scaling, we establish the convergence of U-statistics in vague topology, while the structure of a non-degenerate limit measure is also revealed. Our general result shows various limit theorems for geometric and topological statistics, including persistent Betti numbers of Čech complexes, the volume of simplices, a functional of the Morse critical points, and values of the min-type distance function. The required vague convergence can be obtained as a result of the limit theorem for point processes induced by U-statistics. The latter convergence particularly occurs in the
$\mathcal M_0$
-topology.
Ambient temperature crack growth in titanium alloys and its significance for aircraft structures
Authors: Wanhill R. J. H.
Published: September 2022

Modern technology places great demands on structural material performance. Until the 1950s, structures were invariably designed according to safe-life principles, for which a crack-free service life was required and assumed. However, the tendency to much longer utilisation of aircraft, and latterly the introduction of high strength materials, have focused attention on damage tolerant design in which allowance must be made for possible cracking and its certain detection before catastrophic failure. Especially for high strength materials is this change in philosophy necessary, because the improved static strengths (and hence potentially increased structural efficiency) rarely result in comparable improvements in fatigue properties, and are usually accompanied by a decline in fracture toughness and in greater susceptibility to environment-induced cracking.