bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prediction of confined compressive strength of concrete column strengthened with FRCM composites
Authors: Kumar Prashant , Arora Harish Chandra , Chidambaram R. Siva , Kumar Aman
Published: October 2024

Nowadays, retrofitting and rehabilitation of deteriorated reinforced concrete structures are becoming a growing need of the construction industry instead of demolishing aged structures. The application of fabric‐reinforced cementitious matrix (FRCM) on the existing concrete structures is one of the sustainable solutions to retrofit the concrete structures. This study used machine learning (ML) models such as linear regression (LR), support vector machines (SVM), and adaptive neuro‐fuzzy inference systems (ANFIS) to estimate the compressive strength (CS) of columns wrapped with FRCM. The experimental dataset of 301 column specimens was collected including input parameters such as cross‐sectional properties, mechanical properties of concrete and steel, and characteristics of FRCM material. Apart from ML models, seven analytical models were also used to compare the accuracy and precision of ML models. The results illustrate that the ANFIS model outperformed other ML models and established itself as a dependable and precise model. The R‐value of the ANFIS model was 0.9816, whereas R‐values of 0.9269 and 0.9572 were achieved by LR and SVM models, respectively. In addition, the MAPE value acquired by the ANFIS model was 1.52% which was lower than those of the LR model by 73.24%, and the SVM model by 60.60%, respectively. As the precision of the ANFIS model was higher as compared with SVM and LR models, so, the developed ANFIS‐based mathematical model can be easily used to predict the CS of FRCM‐strengthened concrete columns. The developed model is accurate, economical, and fast; and can be utilized by FRCM applicators and structural designers.
Detection of corrosion effects on prestressed concrete bridge deck slabs from the champlain bridge through non‐destructive testing techniques
Authors: Tawil Dana , Martín‐Pérez Beatriz , Sanchez Leandro F. M. , Noël Martin
Published: October 2024

As aging infrastructures raise public concerns, evaluating their performance is crucial for maintaining structural integrity, especially for corroding prestressed concrete members. These structures may experience substantial tendon cross‐sectional area loss before any visible deterioration becomes detectable. While various non‐destructive techniques (NDT) have proven effective in labs, correlating corrosion‐induced damage in field members remains a challenge. Establishing these correlations is key for understanding the overall performance of aging structural concrete elements and ensuring their continued safe operation through non‐invasive means. This paper investigates various NDTs on a concrete bridge deck, aiming to correlate results. Visual inspection, Schmidt rebound hammer, Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity (UPV), corrosion detection techniques, Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR), Ultrasonic Pulse Echo (UPE), and Impact Echo (IE) methods are evaluated for detecting concrete deck damage. Results show the methods' capabilities in detecting defects to a certain extent, highlighting their potential in assessing aging concrete infrastructures.
Analysis of wind vibration characteristics of a slab‐type high‐rise residential building
Authors: Xia Yuchao , Shen Yan , Yuan Jiahui , Chen Shuifu
Published: October 2024

A slab‐type high‐rise residential building with a depth‐to‐width ratio exceeding 6 was studied. Multi‐point surface pressure measurements and high‐frequency force balance (HFFB) wind tunnel tests were conducted to investigate the wind‐induced dynamic characteristics of the building. The dynamic responses, especially accelerations closely related to serviceability performance, were determined and examined in both time and frequency domains. The spectral properties of the time‐history acceleration responses were compared with frequency‐domain results. Analyses showed acceleration responses were amplified when along‐wind or across‐wind directions aligned with the shorter building axis. The slab‐type cross‐section reduced vortex shedding in the across‐wind direction. As a result, peak accelerations were often dominated by along‐wind excitations. Torsional accelerations approached those induced by along‐wind winds, likely due to both fundamental and higher modes.
Exploring Preservice Teachers' Translanguaging Practices and Perceptions in Teacher Training: A Global Englishes Perspective
Authors: Li Hongqin , Pan Lin , Seargeant Philip , Block David
Published: October 2024

This study explores how preservice English teachers in China perceive and leverage their Chinese and English linguistic repertoires in ELT methodology training, and how a reflective understanding of their use of these repertoires can contribute to their development as teachers. To understand how their practices and conceptualizations of language and teaching are in accord with an orientation toward or away from principles of Global Englishes Language Teaching (GELT), we drew on theories of translanguaging space and stance (García, Ibarra Johnson, & Seltzer, 2017; Li, 2011) and the GELT framework (Rose & Galloway, 2019) to examine preservice teachers' experiences in teacher training. Through multimodal conversational analysis of lesson recordings, we found that preservice teachers created translanguaging spaces to utilize different languages in the critical negotiation of pedagogies. In addition, they displayed traslanguaging stance by strategically incorporating multimodal and multicultural resources in microteachings. We also carried out semistructured interviews in which the preservice teachers, influenced by factors such as language ideologies and curriculum design, displayed mixed views toward translanguaging practices in teacher training, and the ELT classroom. By investigating the feasibility of GELT in TESOL teacher training in China, this study emphasizes the need to empower preservice teachers as critical agents in terms of assessment design and curriculum delivery for sustainable Global Englishes‐oriented innovations to occur.
Brane-like solutions and other non-supersymmetric vacua
Authors: Mourad J. , Raucci S. , Sagnotti A.
Published: October 2024

Abstract

After recasting the standard charged and uncharged brane profiles in the harmonic gauge, we explore solutions with the same isometries where the potentials V = T eγ ϕ of ten-dimensional non-supersymmetric strings are taken into account. Combining a detailed catalog of the possible asymptotics with some numerical results suggests that these spherically symmetric backgrounds terminate at singularities within finite proper distances.
Low and moderate x gluon contribution to exclusive Compton scattering processes
Authors: Boussarie R. , Mehtar-Tani Y.
Published: October 2024

Abstract

We revisit the high energy semi-classical description of the exclusive processes DVCS, TCS, and Double DVCS by explicitly keeping track of the Feynman x dependence in both the hard and the hadronic matrix elements. This is achieved by a modification of the standard shock wave approximation to derive the effective Feynman rules, which leads to a generic expression on which we then perform a partial twist expansion to get rid of quantities suppressed by the proper physical scales. We obtain a compact factorized master formula that can be used to investigate the Bjorken limit at leading twist. In particular, we recover the full one-loop result in the collinear limit for pure gluon exchange with the target. Finally, we discuss the subtleties in taking the simultaneous collinear and small x limit.
Stabilization of a twisted modulus on a mirror of rigid Calabi-Yau manifold
Authors: Ishiguro Keiya , Kai Takafumi , Otsuka Hajime
Published: October 2024

Abstract

We study the stabilization of a twisted modulus in Type IIB flux compactifications on a mirror of the rigid Calabi-Yau threefold. By analyzing the effective action of twisted and untwisted moduli, we find that three-form fluxes satisfying the tadpole cancellation conditions lead to supersymmetric AdS vacua. We also investigate swampland conjectures on this non-geometric background.
Classes of holographic Mott gaps
Authors: Ghorai Debabrata , Yuk Taewon , Han Young-Kwon , Sin Sang-Jin
Published: October 2024

Abstract

The fermion gaps are classified into order gap or Mott gap depending on the presence/absence of the order parameter. We construct the holographic model of the Mott gap using the field that is supported by the density only without introducing any order parameter. We then classify the Mott gap, depending on the shape of the gap in the density of states and whether the Fermi surface is touching the valence bond or not, into three classes: i) Symmetric gap, ii) Asymmetric gap with isolated Fermi sea. iii) Asymmetric gap with Fermi sea touching the valence band. Finally, we identify possible non-minimal gauge interactions that produce a flatband without symmetry breaking.
CFT duals of Kerr-Taub-NUT and beyond
Authors: Perry Malcolm J. , Rodriguez Maria J.
Published: October 2024

Abstract

The duality relating the four-dimensional Kerr-Taub-NUT black hole to a thermal two-dimensional CFT with central charges cL = cR = 12J0 is analyzed in detail, generalizing an argument given recently for Kerr within the soft-hair approach. The hidden conformal symmetry is realized in the form of V irL × V irR diffeomorphisms which act non-trivially on the black hole horizon. Semiclassical formulae are derived for the temperature and central charges of the dual CFT. Assuming the applicability of the Cardy formula, these CFT quantities precisely reproduce the macroscopic Bekenstein-Hawking area law. Various further generalizations including the complete family of black holes in four dimensions are discussed.
Genetic determinants of antidepressant and antipsychotic drug response
Authors: Stassen Hans H. , Bachmann S. , Bridler R. , Cattapan K. , Hartmann A. M. , Rujescu D. , Seifritz E. , Weisbrod M. , Scharfetter Chr.
Published: October 2024

Today, more than 90% of inpatients hospitalized with Major Depression or Schizophrenia are treated with psychotropic drugs. Since none of the treatment options is causal, response rates are modest and the course of recovery is very heterogeneous. Genetic studies on the etiology and pathogenesis of major psychiatric disorders over the past decades have been largely unsuccessful. Likewise, genetic studies to predict response to psychopharmacological treatment have also not been particularly successful. In this project we have recruited 902 inpatients with ICD-10 diagnoses of schizophrenic (“F2 patients”) or depressive disorders (“F3 patients”). The study assessed today’s acute inpatient treatment regimens with up to 8 repeated measurements regarding the time course of recovery and adverse side effects. The genotyping included 100 candidate genes with genotypic patterns computed from 549 Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs). To predict response to psychopharmacological treatment, we relied on a multidimensional approach to analyzing genetic diversity in combination with multilayer Neural Nets (NNs). Central to this new method were the “gene vectors” that (1) assessed the multidimensional genotypic patterns observed with genes; and (2) evaluated the correlations between genes. By means of these methods, we searched for combinations of multidimensional genotypic patterns that were characteristic of treatment responders while being rare among non-responders. The chosen method of approach provided a powerful technique to detail the complex structures of SNP data that are not detectable by conventional association methods. Molecular-genetic NNs enabled correct classification of 100% “non-responders”, along with 94.7% correctly classified “responders” among the F2 patients, and 82.6% correctly classified “responders” among the F3 patients. The F2 and F3 classifiers were not disjoint but showed an overlap of 29.6% and 35.7% between the diagnostic groups, thus indicating that clinical diagnoses may not constitute etiologic entities. Our results suggested that patients may have an unspecific physical-genetic disposition that enables, facilitates, impedes or prevents recovery from major psychiatric disorders by setting various thresholds for exogenous triggers that initiate improvement (“recovery disposition”). Even though this disposition is not causally linked to recovery, it can nonetheless be clinically used in the sense of a “surrogate”. Indeed, clinicians are also interested in reliable tools that can “do the job”, despite the fact that etiology and pathogenesis of the treated disorders remain unknown.
Postoperative recovery in peroral versus intravenous antibiotic treatment following laparoscopic appendectomy for complicated appendicitis: a substudy of a cluster randomized cluster crossover non-inferiority study
Authors: Mohamud Ahmed Abdirahman , Zeyghami Walid , Kleif Jakob , Gögenur Ismail
Published: October 2024

Background

Acute appendicitis is the most common cause of abdominal pain requiring surgery, usually managed with laparoscopic appendectomy. In Denmark, the standard postoperative treatment for complicated cases involves intravenous antibiotics. This study compares peroral versus intravenous antibiotics in the context of fast-track surgery and Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols. Our objective is to evaluate the impact of peroral versus intravenous antibiotics on patient-reported outcomes following laparoscopic appendectomy for complicated appendicitis.

Methods

This was a sub-study within a broader Danish cluster-randomized non-inferiority trial conducted at Zealand University Hospital, focusing on adult patients undergoing laparoscopic appendectomy for complicated appendicitis. Participants were randomized into two groups: one receiving a three-day course of peroral antibiotics and the other intravenous antibiotics after surgery. Recovery quality was assessed on the third postoperative day using the Quality of Recovery-15 (QoR-15) questionnaire.

Results

The study included 54 patients, 23 in the peroral and 31 in the intravenous groups. The peroral group reported significantly better recovery outcomes, with higher QoR-15 scores (mean difference of 12 points, p < 0.001). They also experienced shorter hospital stays, averaging 47 h less than the intravenous group (p < 0.001). No significant differences between the groups were observed in readmissions or severe postoperative complications.

Conclusions

Peroral antibiotic administration after laparoscopic appendectomy for complicated appendicitis significantly improves patient recovery and reduces hospital stay compared to intravenous antibiotics. These results advocate a potential shift towards peroral antibiotic use in postoperative care, aligning with ERAS principles.

Trial Registration Number

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04803422.
Proof-of-concept study of a small language model chatbot for breast cancer decision support – a transparent, source-controlled, explainable and data-secure approach
Authors: Griewing Sebastian , Lechner Fabian , Gremke Niklas , Lukac Stefan , Janni Wolfgang , Wallwiener Markus , Wagner Uwe , Hirsch Martin , Kuhn Sebastian
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Large language models (LLM) show potential for decision support in breast cancer care. Their use in clinical care is currently prohibited by lack of control over sources used for decision-making, explainability of the decision-making process and health data security issues. Recent development of Small Language Models (SLM) is discussed to address these challenges. This preclinical proof-of-concept study tailors an open-source SLM to the German breast cancer guideline (BC-SLM) to evaluate initial clinical accuracy and technical functionality in a preclinical simulation.

Methods

A multidisciplinary tumor board (MTB) is used as the gold-standard to assess the initial clinical accuracy in terms of concordance of the BC-SLM with MTB and comparing it to two publicly available LLM, ChatGPT3.5 and 4. The study includes 20 fictional patient profiles and recommendations for 5 treatment modalities, resulting in 100 binary treatment recommendations (recommended or not recommended). Statistical evaluation includes concordance with MTB in % including Cohen’s Kappa statistic (κ). Technical functionality is assessed qualitatively in terms of local hosting, adherence to the guideline and information retrieval.

Results

The overall concordance amounts to 86% for BC-SLM (κ = 0.721, p < 0.001), 90% for ChatGPT4 (κ = 0.820, p < 0.001) and 83% for ChatGPT3.5 (κ = 0.661, p < 0.001). Specific concordance for each treatment modality ranges from 65 to 100% for BC-SLM, 85–100% for ChatGPT4, and 55–95% for ChatGPT3.5. The BC-SLM is locally functional, adheres to the standards of the German breast cancer guideline and provides referenced sections for its decision-making.

Conclusion

The tailored BC-SLM shows initial clinical accuracy and technical functionality, with concordance to the MTB that is comparable to publicly-available LLMs like ChatGPT4 and 3.5. This serves as a proof-of-concept for adapting a SLM to an oncological disease and its guideline to address prevailing issues with LLM by ensuring decision transparency, explainability, source control, and data security, which represents a necessary step towards clinical validation and safe use of language models in clinical oncology.
The ASPECT hydrocephalus system: investigating clinical applicability and system utility
Authors: Toft N M , Pedersen S Hornshøj , Jensen T S R , Milan J Birch , Riedel C S , Agerlin N , Birkeland P , Hauerberg J , Larsen C C , Munch T N , Holst A Vedel , Juhler M
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Hydrocephalus presents diagnostic and management challenges due to its heterogeneity. The ASPECT Hydrocephalus System, introduced in 2023, offers a comprehensive approach to describing patients with hydrocephalus. This study investigates the clinical applicability of the ASPECT Hydrocephalus System compared to the International Classification of Disease (ICD-10) and demonstrates its utility.

Methods

Two hundred pediatric and adult patients with hydrocephalus treated at Copenhagen University Hospital between September 2019 and 2020 were described according to the ASPECT Hydrocephalus System. The latest brain imaging served as assessment point.

Results

Forty-seven percent of patients had more than one ICD-10 code assigned, and 40.5% of patients had an unspecific ICD-10 code as the most recent. It was possible to apply factor A (anatomy), S (symptomatology), P (previous interventions), C (complications) and T (time of onset) to all patients. Factor E (etiology) categorized 15% of patients as ‘unknown’. Combining factor A and S showed a similar incidence of acute high-pressure symptoms in patients with and without ventriculomegaly on imaging (39.7% vs 39.3%), demonstrating how symptoms and neuro-radiological findings do not necessarily correlate.

Conclusion

The ASPECT Hydrocephalus System’s applicability and utility were demonstrated in a large, diverse patient population. Except for ‘Etiology’, all factors could be applied to the entire population showing the system’s robustness. While limitations in ICD-10 may force clinicians to choose between clinical measures, the ASPECT Hydrocephalus System allows comprehensive patient characterization, potentially aiding in clinical decision-making and research. Its use depends on registration quality. Application in prospective cohorts is warranted to assure feasibility.
Prevalence and predictive parameters of external root resorption caused by retained wisdom teeth
Authors: Baensch Frederik , Meißner Wilhelm , Will Lena , Kunkel Martin
Published: October 2024

Objectives

The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence and severity of external root resorption (RR) caused by retained third molars (M3), to compare the sensitivity of panoramic radiography (PAN) and cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) and to determine predictive factors for root resorption.

Materials and methods

In a retrospective cross-sectional analysis, we included patients (N = 367) who underwent PAN and CBCT imaging between December 2017 and July 2019. Previous orthodontic treatment, age, gender, superimposition of second molars (M2) and M3 on PAN, retention depth, inclination angle and vertical level of contact with the M2 were used as predictor variables. The outcome variable was RR of the M2, graded according to Ericson et al. [1]. Subgroup analyses compared patients with and without suspected resorption in the PAN.

Results

While less than 5% of PANs suggested RR associated with M3, CBCT showed RR in 20% of all M2 with adjacent retained M3. The angle of inclination of M3, patient age and vertical level of molar contact emerged as predictive parameters, with mesial inclination, older age and deeper retention associated with increased severity of M2.

Conclusion

Within the limitations of our study, these data confirm the poor performance of PAN in the diagnosis of RR. CBCT may be helpful in detecting RR in mesioangulated and deeply retained M3 in elderly patients, even when PAN did not suggest pathology.

Clinical relevance

Our study may help to decide whether CBCT should be considered prior to M3 surgery.
Prevalence and genotyping of Toxoplasma gondii in questing Ixodes ricinus ticks from forest areas of Northern Poland
Authors: Adamska Małgorzata
Published: October 2024

Toxoplasma gondii occurs in a wide range of intermediate hosts, whose blood may be a meal for different tick species. A few studies have examined the role of ticks in the life cycle of T. gondii. This one includes the largest number and all stages of Ixodes ricinus collected from the widest area, covering seven recreational localities within a forest biotope in Northern Poland. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of T. gondii DNA in 2144 collected questing ticks to establish whether they may be involved in T. gondii life cycle. The additional goal was to genotype the detected T. gondii, as knowledge about its genotypes occurring in European ticks is insufficient. A further purpose was to detect coinfection with T. gondii and Borreliaceae in the collected ticks, as all of them have previously been tested for the presence of bacteria DNA. Nested PCR and sequencing of the obtained B1 gene fragment were conducted. T. gondii DNA was detected in 0.9% of all ticks (1.1% of nymphs and 0.7% of larvae). The presence of T. gondii in unfed larvae and nymphs may indicate the possibility of its vertical transmission. The prevalence of T. gondii DNA in ticks collected from individual sites was focal (0-4.3%) and seems to depend on local climatic conditions. Among all examined ticks, 0.3% were coinfected with T. gondii and Borreliella spp., vs. 0.6% of specimens with a single T. gondii infection. The obtained B1 sequences showed the greatest similarity (99.71–100%) to the sequence representing type III.
Managing waste packaging for a sustainable future: a strategic and efficiency analysis in the European context
Authors: Barca Adele , D’Adamo Idiano , Gastaldi Massimo , Leal Filho Walter
Published: October 2024

The management of package waste has become a critical concern in pursuing sustainable development, particularly within the European context, where environmental regulations and sustainability goals are stringent. This paper presents a comprehensive strategic and efficiency analysis of waste packaging management across Europe, examining current practices, policies, and technological innovations in a sample of countries. The work identifies critical challenges and opportunities in the sector using Data Envelopment Analysis and Multicriteria decision analysis. Our findings reveal significant variations in the efficiency and effectiveness of waste packaging management practices among European countries, influenced by differing policy frameworks, recycling infrastructures, and public awareness levels. Sweden and Luxembourg excel in the sustainable and technical model for recycling, while Austria prevails for recovery in both. The strategic vision suggests an emphasis on green premium, and the most sustainable alternatives are those marked by natural fibres and respect for human conditions. The paper concludes with strategic recommendations for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and communities to enhance waste packaging management efficiency. These include policy harmonisation at the EU level, investment in innovative recycling technologies, and fostering public–private partnerships to drive systemic change. By adopting these strategies, Europe can move closer to achieving its sustainability targets, reducing environmental impact, and promoting a circular economy. So, the implications of this paper are both strategic and political. The former is related to identifying the best strategy related to packaging waste, and the latter is to uniform the efficiency of waste packaging management in Europe.
Production of Domain 9 from the cation-independent mannose-6-phosphate receptor fused with an Fc domain
Authors: Tang Yu-He , Liu Yi-Shi , Fujita Morihisa
Published: October 2024

Lysosomal storage diseases (LSDs) are genetic disorders caused by mutations in lysosomal enzymes, lysosomal membrane proteins or genes related to intracellular transport that result in impaired lysosomal function. Currently, the primary treatment for several LSDs is enzyme replacement therapy (ERT), which involves intravenous administration of the deficient lysosomal enzymes to ameliorate symptoms. The efficacy of ERT largely depends on the mannose-6-phosphate (M6P) modification of the N-glycans associated with the enzyme, as M6P is a marker for the recognition and trafficking of lysosomal enzymes. In cells, N-glycan processing and M6P modification occur in the endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus. This is a complex process involving multiple enzymes. In the trans-Golgi network (TGN), M6P-modified enzymes are recognized by the cation-independent mannose-6-phosphate receptor (CIMPR) and transported to the lysosome to exert their activities. In this study, we used the 9th domain of CIMPR, which exhibits a high affinity for M6P binding, and fused it with the Fc domain of human immunoglobulin G1 (IgG1). The resulting fusion protein specifically binds to M6P-modified proteins. This provides a tool for the rapid detection and concentration of M6P-containing recombinant enzymes to assess the effectiveness of ERT. The advantages of this approach include its high specificity and sensitivity and may lead to the development of new treatments for LSDs.
‘Helping academics shine’: An exploration into the relationships working-class professional services staff have with others in UK higher education
Authors: Pilgrim-Brown Jess
Published: October 2024

Drawing on research interviews with thirteen self-identifying working-class professional services employees in Russell Group institutions, this article attempts to develop a nuanced approach to understanding institutional cultures in UK universities, through the relationships within these establishments. Throughout the study, the tensions between working-class professional services or administrative staff and their counterparts working on academic trajectories became clear. Often highly qualified themselves, the participants in this study describe feelings relating to inadequacy and often negative attitudes proliferated towards them by academic staff. These relationships are framed within the perspective of three themes: academic hierarchies and superior academic value, treatment of staff, and language codes and patterns. In contrast, the participants in this sample often describe their relationships with their networks in professional services as highly positive, developmental, and enriching. This study focused on working-class professional services staff specifically. In the field of working-class research, professional services staff from working-class backgrounds have currently been largely omitted from research, which tends to focus on working-class students and working-class academics. Not all professional services staff identify as working-class, but due to this deficit of evidence in the research field, it is this group in particular that this paper focuses on. The findings in this paper suggest that the relationships these professional services staff have with academics are often fraught, difficult to manage, and at times, derogatory in their nature. This finding comes at the juxtaposition of the wider inclusion agenda UK universities pursue.
Nanostructured bismuth phosphate-based asymmetric supercapacitor: electrochemical evaluation and oscillator application
Authors: Kumari Pooja , Ghosh Sarit K. , Perla Venkata K. , Saha Chandan , Singh Harishchandra , Mallick Kaushik
Published: October 2024

Phosphate-based materials have received significant attention for various applications. In supercapacitors, metal phosphates exhibit high capacitance and superior rate performance. In this work, a wet chemical route was applied for the fabrication of aniline stabilized monoclinic bismuth phosphate (BPO) particles within the size range of 4–10 nm. The synthesized material was utilized as an active component for the application of a supercapacitor. The performances of the material were examined on a nickel foam for a three-electrode electrochemical cell. The material showed the maximum specific capacitance ($${C}_{SP}$$

C

SP

) value of 255 F.g−1 at the current density (CD) of 2 A.g−1. Further, an asymmetric supercapacitor (ASC) device was fabricated with BPO and single wall carbon nanotube (SWCNT) as negative and positive electrodes, respectively, which delivered a specific capacity $$(Qs)$$

(
Q
s
)

value of 1462 mAh.g−1 under the CD of 0.4 A.g−1 with the energy density (ED) and power density (PD) values of 2.2 Wh.kg−1 and 0.68 kW.kg−1, respectively. The device exhibited capacity retention and coulombic efficiency (CE) values of 84 and 95% at 0.9 A.g−1 for 10,000 galvanostatic charge–discharge (GCD) cycles. The ASC device generated a low-frequency waveform and has the potential to function as an oscillator.
Assessing the Feasibility of Integrating the Lethality Assessment Program into the Los Angeles Domestic Abuse Response Team
Authors: Wagman Jennifer A. , Nguyen Grace , Marvel Daphne
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The Lethality Assessment Program (LAP) Maryland Model is an evidence-based intervention designed to prevent intimate partner homicide. It includes the lethality assessment screen, a tool used by field practitioners to assess a victim-survivor’s risk of being killed by their partner, and a referral process linking victim-survivors to community-based domestic violence services. This study aimed to evaluate the LAP's alignment with the needs of Los Angeles and its potential integration into the Los Angeles Domestic Abuse Response Team (DART) Program, which operates in all 21 divisions of the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD).

Methods

Between January and May 2021, we conducted qualitative interviews with 15 law enforcement officers, domestic violence service providers, and other stakeholders involved with DART to gather information for tailoring the LAP intervention for pilot implementation in three LAPD divisions.

Results

Participants were positive about the LAP and its integration into the DART program but identified several gaps, such as limited staff, resources, and training. Despite these concerns, there was widespread agreement that the LAP aligned with existing DART operations, with an emphasis on the importance of obtaining buy-in from non-DART LAPD personnel.

Conclusions

Results suggest that it will be feasible to pilot test the LAP in Los Angeles. These efforts should include fact-based education for officers on the rationale and factors behind the screening procedures to improve acceptance and implementation of evidence-based practices.
The role of competition on equity crowdfunding
Authors: Correia Sandra , Sousa Miguel , Brandão Elísio
Published: October 2024

Our study investigates competition’s impact on ECF campaigns, analyzing 37,201 daily observations from 1081 campaigns. While we found that the number of competing campaigns does not significantly influence the likelihood of funding, our daily analysis reveals its effect on campaign performance, impacting investors participation and funds raised. Additionally, more competitors reduce final number of investors. Furthermore, blockbuster projects from other industries have an adverse cannibalization effect, lowering campaign success probability. These findings emphasize the role of the competitive landscape in guiding entrepreneurs’ strategic decisions to improve the prospects of ECF campaigns success.
Harnessing SWCNT absorber based efficient CH3NH3PbI3 perovskite solar cells
Authors: Elewa Shorok , Yousif Bedir , Areed Nihal F. F. , Abo-Elsoud Mohy Eldin A.
Published: October 2024

This paper investigates the effect of incorporating a single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) layer into the perovskite solar cell (PSC) structure as an effective technique to boost energy harvesting. The proposed PSC structure utilizes the SWCNTs layer underneath the CH3NH3PbI3 perovskite layer as an absorbing layer forming a novel design of (ITO/SnO2/CH3NH3PbI3/SWCNTs/NiOx/C) half tandem PSC structure. The suggested PSC structure is numerically analyzed using finite element method (FEM). The effects of varying thickness and doping concentration of the added layer and the material of rear electrode are investigated to maximize the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of the suggested PSC. Results of the 3D opto-electrical study and the energy bandgap analysis confirm that utilizing a 680 nm SWCNTs layer with doping concentration of 1.1 × 1020  cm-3 beneath a 150 nm perovskite layer enhances the PCE and short circuit current density (JSC) to $$25.6\%$$

25.6
%

and $$31.201 mA/{cm}^{2}$$

31.201
m
A
/

cm

2

, respectively due to the improving of the PSC absorption by $$27.65\%$$

27.65
%

. Higher performance of the proposed PSC has been achieved by using gold (Au) electrode instead of carbon (C) one, causing total enhancement of PCE and JSC of $$6.185\%$$

6.185
%

and $$9.18\;mA/cm^{2}$$

9.18

m
A
/
c

m
2

, respectively over their values for (ITO/SnO2/CH3NH3PbI3/P3HT/NiOx/C) structure reported in previously published literature. The proposed design can be considered as an efficient alternative to the conventional PSC owing to its higher performance and reduced toxicity.
On-farm experimentation of precision agriculture for differential seed and fertilizer management in semi-arid rainfed zones
Authors: Videgain M. , Martínez-Casasnovas J. A. , Vigo-Morancho A. , Vidal M. , García-Ramos F. J.
Published: October 2024

Introduction

This study explores the integration of precision agriculture technologies (PATs) in rainfed cereal production within semi-arid regions.

Methods

utilizing the Veris 3100 sensor for apparent soil electrical conductivity (ECa) mapping, differentiated management zones (MZs) were established in experimental plots in Valsalada, NE Spain. Site-specific variable dose technology was applied for seed and fertilizer applications, tailoring inputs to distinct fertility levels within each MZ. Emphasizing nitrogen (N) management, the study evaluated the impact of variable-rate applications on crop growth, yield, nitrogen use efficiency (NUE), and economic returns. For the 2021/2022 and 2022/2023 seasons, seeding rates ranged from 350 to 450 grains/m2, and basal fertilizer dosages varied between high and low levels. Additionally, the total nitrogen units were distributed differently between the two seasons, while maintaining a uniform topdressing fertilizer dose across all treatments.

Results

Results revealed a significant increase in yield in MZ 2 (higher fertility) compared to MZ 1 (lower fertility). NUE demonstrated notable improvement in MZ 2, emphasizing the effectiveness of variable-rate N applications. Economic returns, calculated as partial net income, showed a considerable advantage in MZ 2 over MZ 1, resulting in negative outcomes for low-fertility areas in several of the analyzed scenarios, and highlighting the financial benefits of tailored input management.

Conclusion

This research provides quantitative evidence supporting the viability and advantages of adopting PATs in rainfed cereal production. The study contributes valuable insights into optimizing input strategies, enhancing N management, and improving economic returns in semi-arid regions.
Professional reintegration of stroke survivors and their mental health, quality of life and community integration
Authors: Matos Joana , Henriques Ana , Moura Ana , Alves Elisabete
Published: October 2024

Purpose

To assess the association between professional reintegration and mental health, quality of life (QoL) and community reintegration of stroke survivors.

Methods

Using a cross-sectional study design, a structured questionnaire was administered to previously working stroke survivors, 18–24 months post-stroke. Data on sociodemographic characteristics, professional reintegration (prevalence of return to work (RTW), period of RTW, job placement, function at work, reintegration support, association of stroke with work and number of working hours), mental health (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Questionnaire), QoL (Stroke Specific Quality of Life Scale) and community integration (Community Integration Questionnaire) were reported by 553 stroke survivors.

Results

Twenty months after stroke, 313 (56.6%; 95%CI 52.4–60.8) stroke survivors had return to work. RTW was positively associated with both global and sub-domains scores of Community Integration Questionnaire (CIQ) (global CIQ β = 3.50; 95%CI 3.30–3.79) and with depressive symptomatology (β = 0.63; 95%CI 0.20–1.46) measured by the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. No significant differences were found regarding QoL, according to RTW status. For those who RTW, no significant associations were found between any of the professional reintegration determinants assessed and mental health, QoL and community integration scores.

Conclusions

RTW seems to be associated to better community integration after stroke, but appears to be negatively associated to stroke survivor’s mental health, namely considering depression symptoms. Future studies should explore the barriers to stroke survivors’ RTW and the challenges and strategies used to overcome them, to allow the development of professional reintegration policies.
The Mapping Imaging Spectrometer for Europa (MISE)
Authors: Blaney Diana L. , Hibbitts Karl , Diniega Serina , Davies Ashley Gerard , Clark Roger N. , Green Robert O. , Hedman Matthew , Langevin Yves , Lunine Jonathan , McCord Thomas B. , Murchie Scott , Paranicas Chris , Seelos Frank , Soderblom Jason M. , Cable Morgan L. , Eckert Regina , Thompson David R. , Trumbo Samantha K. , Bruce Carl , Lundeen Sarah R. , Bender Holly A. , Helmlinger Mark C. , Moore Lori B. , Mouroulis Pantazis , Small Zachary , Tang Hong , Van Gorp Byron , Sullivan Peter W. , Zareh Shannon , Rodriquez Jose I. , McKinley Ian , Hahn Daniel V. , Bowers Matthew , Hourani Ramsey , Bryce Brian A. , Nuding Danielle , Bailey Zachery , Rettura Alessandro , Zarate Evan D.
Published: October 2024

The Mapping Imaging Spectrometer for Europa (MISE) is an infrared compositional instrument that will fly on NASA’s Europa Clipper mission to the Jupiter system. MISE is designed to meet the Level-1 science requirements related to the mission’s composition science objective to “understand the habitability of Europa’s ocean through composition and chemistry” and to contribute to the geology science and ice shell and ocean objectives, thereby helping Europa Clipper achieve its mission goal to “explore Europa to investigate its habitability.” MISE has a mass of 65 kg and uses an energy per flyby of 75.2 W-h. MISE will detect illumination from 0.8 to 5 μm with 10 nm spectral resolution, a spatial sampling of 25 m per pixel at 100 km altitude, and 300 cross-track pixels, enabling discrimination among the two principal states of water ice on Europa, identification of the main non-ice components of interest: salts, acids, and organics, and detection of trace materials as well as some thermal signatures. Furthermore, the spatial resolution and global coverage that MISE will achieve will be complemented by the higher spectral resolution of some Earth-based assets. MISE, combined with observations collected by the rest of the Europa Clipper payload, will enable significant advances in our understanding of how the large-scale structure of Europa’s surface is shaped by geological processes and inform our understanding of the surface at microscale. This paper describes the planned MISE science investigations, instrument design, concept of operations, and data products.
Preliminary outcomes on phenotypic and genetic parameter estimates for body weight of indigenous Tswana goats in Botswana
Authors: Yiga-Kibuuka J. , Raphaka K. , Monau P. I. , Nsoso S. J.
Published: October 2024

The aims of this study were to estimate the genetic and phenotypic parameters for growth traits and evaluate genetic trends on 585 indigenous Tswana goats. The population was maintained under low input production system at the Department of Agricultural Research in Lesego ranch, Botswana, from 2005 to 2008. Data included birth weight (BW), weaning weight (WW), weight at 8 months (PW), yearling weight (YW), pre-weaning average daily gain (ADG) and two post weaning average daily gains (ADG2 and ADGYW). Data was analysed using general linear model of SAS to determine non-genetic effects. Estimation of genetic and phenotypic parameters were estimated using ASREML fitting an animal model that accounted for fixed effect of parity, sex, type of birth and year of birth. Least squares means for BW, WW, PW and YW were 2.88 ± 0.03, 12.15 ± 0.17, 16.52 ± 0.28 and 21.04 ± 0.32Kg, respectively, while those for ADG, ADG2 and ADGYW were 74.52 ± 1.41, 28.78 ± 1.55 and 33.66 ± 2.28 g/day, respectively. Estimates of heritability for BW, WW, PW and YW were 0.79 ± 0.11, 0.63 ± 0.14, 0.32 ± 0.13 and 0.48 ± 0.16, respectively. The genetic correlations for all the traits studied were positive and moderate to high (0.48 to 0.82) whilst phenotypic correlations ranged from 0.21 to 0.72. Positive average genetic trends of 12.32% (WW), 13.39% (PW) and 7.38% (YW) were attained. The results have demonstrated the potential of this breed to be improved through selection.
Combining Default Choices and an Encounter Decision Aid to Improve Tobacco Cessation in Primary Care Patients: A Pragmatic, Cluster-Randomized Trial
Authors: Selby Kevin , Habfast-Robertson Inès , Durand Marie-Anne , Hempel-Bruder Christina , Boesch Anne , Marti Joachim , Kazaal Yasser , Faouzi Mohamed , Maisonneuve Hubert , Berlin Ivan
Published: October 2024

Background

Primary care providers (PCPs) prescribe less often treatments for smoking cessation than for other major risk factors. We assessed the effect of training PCPs to offer smoking cessation treatments to current smokers as the default choice using an encounter decision aid (DA) on smoking cessation.

Methods

Pragmatic, cluster-randomized controlled trial with PCPs in private practice in Switzerland and France. The intervention was a half-day course teaching PCPs the default choice approach using a DA. Control PCPs received a 1-h refresher training on smoking cessation aids. PCPs recruited daily smokers seen for routine care. The primary outcome was self-reported, 7-day, point prevalence smoking abstinence at 6 months. Secondary outcomes were quit attempts and use of smoking cessation aids at 3 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months, and a patient-reported measure of shared decision-making (CollaboRATE scale 1–10, higher scores = more involvement).

Results

Forty-two PCPs completed the training (76% Swiss) and recruited 287 current smokers (105 intervention group, 182 control group), with 51% women, mean age 48 (SD, 2.6), 77% who smoked <20 cigarettes/day, and 221 who responded at 6 months follow-up (77%). The intervention did not affect self-reported smoking abstinence rate at 6 months (9.5% intervention and 10.4% control groups, respectively; OR 0.88 (95%CI 0.37–2.10). It did however increase the number of quit attempts at 3 weeks (OR 2.09, 95%CI 1.04–4.20) and the use of smoking cessation aids at the 3-week and 3-month follow-ups (OR 2.57, 95%CI 1.21–5.45 and OR 2.00, 95%CI 1.11–3.60, respectively). The mean CollaboRATE score was 8.05/10 in the intervention group and 7.28/10 in the control group (p=0.02), reflecting more patient involvement in decision-making.

Conclusion

Training PCPs to use a decision aid did not improve smoking abstinence rate, despite short-term increases in quit attempts and use of smoking cessation aids. It improved patient involvement in decision-making.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT04868474.
High-Temperature Chlorination of Rhodium Using Alkali-Metal and Alkaline-Earth-Metal Chlorides
Authors: Taninouchi Yu-ki , Fujii Rintaro , Sunagawa Kohei , Okabe Toru H. , Nakano Hiroaki
Published: October 2024

This study was aimed at investigating an effective chlorination method for Rh and its oxide to develop an efficient Rh extraction process. The feasibility of using alkali-metal and alkaline-earth-metal chlorides (NaCl, KCl, MgCl2, and CaCl2) as chlorinating agents was evaluated from the perspective of thermodynamics; the prediction results revealed MgCl2 as a suitable agent for chlorinating metallic Rh and Rh2O3 in an oxygen-containing atmosphere. The thermodynamic analysis results were then experimentally validated. Metallic Rh converted to RhCl3 when mixed with MgCl2 and heated at 973 K (700 °C) in an O2 atmosphere. The Rh2O3 powder was efficiently chlorinated when reacted with liquid MgCl2 at 1073 K (800 °C) in an Ar–1 pct O2 atmosphere. Therefore, the chlorination of Rh using MgCl2 is feasible; its use has potential to make the extraction and recovery of Rh from various raw materials more efficient.

Graphical Abstract
Valorization of Pineapple Core Waste for Sequential Extraction of Phenolic Compounds and Carotenoids: Optimization Through Ultrasound-Assisted Method and Box–Behnken Design
Authors: Sanahuja Ana Beltrán , García Arantzazu Valdés , Baenas Nieves , Ferrando Belén Olga , Periago María Jesús , Alonso Natalia Cenitagoya , Sánchez Raquel , Todolí José Luis
Published: October 2024

In this study, a pioneering cascade method involving ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) and Box–Behnken Design (BBD) was optimized to valorize pineapple core waste by the sequential extraction of, firstly phenolic compounds and, secondly, carotenoids. The effectiveness of the extraction was evaluated based on total polyphenol content (TPC) and antioxidant activity using 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assays. Characterization of the carotenoids was performed using high-performance liquid chromatography with a diode array detector (HPLC–DAD). The initial characterization of dry pineapple core (DPC) samples revealed their nutritional composition, including protein, lipid, and carbohydrate weight percentages of 1.20 ± 0.05%, 5.3 ± 0.4%, and 88.6 ± 0.5%, respectively. The high extractives content (40.0 ± 4.5%) suggests a substantial presence of phenolic compounds, making the pineapple core a valuable source of natural antioxidants. The optimal UAE conditions for phenolic compound extraction were 70% amplitude, 5 min extraction time, and 2 cycles, yielding an antioxidant extract rich in phenolic compounds with a desirability value of 81.2%. Therefore, DPC was considered a valuable source of natural antioxidants. The extraction of β-carotene also showed promising results with optimal UAE conditions of 20% amplitude, 3 min extraction time, and 2 cycles. This research promotes the sustainable use of pineapple waste and demonstrates the potential to obtain valuable additives for the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries, encouraging a more circular and efficient use of resources in the pineapple processing industry.