bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synergistic Effect of Hydroxyl and Carboxyl Groups on Promoting Nanoparticle Occlusion within Calcite
Authors: Zhang Jiahao , Xiong Biao , Fu Ziyu , Ning Yin , Li Dan
Published: January 2023

Direct occlusion of guest nanoparticles into host crystals enables the straightforward preparation for various of nanocomposite materials with emerging properties. Therefore, it is highly desirable to elucidate the ‘design rules’ that govern efficient nanoparticle occlusion. Herein, a series of sterically‐stabilized nanoparticles are rationally prepared, where the surface stabilizer chains of such nanoparticles are composed of either poly(methacrylic acid), or poly(glycerol monomethacrylate), or poly((2‐hydroxy‐3‐(methacryloyloxy)propyl)serine). Systematic investigation reveals that hydroxyl groups and carboxyl groups play a synergistic role in driving nanoparticle incorporation into calcite crystals, where the hydroxyl groups enhance colloidal stability of the nanoparticles and the carboxyl groups provide binding sites for efficient occlusion. The generality of these findings is further validated by extending it to polymer‐stabilized gold nanoparticles. This study demonstrates that precision synthesis of polymer stabilizers comprising of synergistic functional groups can significantly promote nanoparticle occlusion, thus enabling the efficient construction of organic‐inorganic hybrid materials via nanoparticle occlusion strategy.
“Through the looking‐glass …” An empirical study on blob infrastructure blueprints in the Topology and Orchestration Specification for Cloud Applications
Authors: Dalla Palma Stefano , van Asseldonk Chiel , Catolino Gemma , Di Nucci Dario , Palomba Fabio , Tamburri Damian A.
Published: January 2023

Infrastructure‐as‐code (IaC) helps keep up with the demand for fast, reliable, high‐quality services by provisioning and managing infrastructures through configuration files. Those files ensure efficient and repeatable routines for system provisioning, but they might be affected by code smells that negatively affect quality and code maintenance. Research has broadly studied code smells for traditional source code development; however, none explored them in the “Topology and Orchestration Specification for Cloud Applications” (TOSCA), the technology‐agnostic OASIS standard for IaC. In this paper, we investigate a prominent traditional implementation code smell potentially applicable to TOSCA: Large Class, or “Blob Blueprint” in IaC terms. We compare metrics‐based and unsupervised learning‐based detectors on a large dataset of manually validated observations related to Blob Blueprints. We provide insights on code metrics that corroborate previous findings and empirically show that metrics‐based detectors perform highly in detecting Blob Blueprints. We deem our results put forward a new research path toward dealing with this problem, for example, in the scope of fully automated service pipelines.
Concurrently Preparing Front Emitter and Rear Passivating Contact via Continuous PECVD Deposition Plus One‐Step Annealing for High‐Efficiency Tunnel Oxide Passivating Contact Solar Cells
Authors: Du Haojiang , Liu Zunke , Liu Wei , Xiao Mingjing , Lin Na , Yang Weiguang , Xia Qingfeng , Liao Mingdun , Yan Baojie , Yang Zhenhai , Zeng Yuheng , Ye Jichun
Published: January 2023

Although tunnel oxide passivating contact (TOPCon) solar cells (SCs) have achieved great success in the photovoltaic (PV) industry, the ultrahigh temperature to prepare boron emitters prolongs the preparation processes and increases the thermal budget. Herein, a new method is presented for simultaneously preparing the front‐side boron emitters and the rear‐side TOPCon structures through continuous plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition of the precursor layers followed by one‐step high‐temperature annealing. The front‐side boron emitters are fabricated using a stack of nano‐SiOx/B‐doped a‐Si:H layers as the boron source, which can avoid the formation of the stacking faults and lower the annealing temperature to match the rear‐side TOPCon fabrication processes. The rear‐side TOPCon structure, consisting of a plasma‐assisted N2O oxidation (PANO) SiOxand a nitrogen‐doped a‐Si:H(n+), is used to match the B diffusion temperature with high‐quality passivation. The precursor TOPCon cell without electrodes features excellent passivation with the highest implied open‐circuit voltage (iVoc) of 726 mV. As a result, the proof‐of‐concept TOPCon SCs exhibit a remarkable efficiency of 24.07%. This work proposes a flexible and elegant process to prepare high‐efficiency TOPCon devices, which shows great potential for application in the PV industry.
Thermal‐Induced Cerium‐Doped Perovskite Solar Cells with a Fill Factor Exceeding 81%
Authors: Hu Danyang , Tang Haorui , Zhang Xiyao , Li Zhishan , Zhu Xing , Zhu Tao
Published: January 2023

Hybrid organic–inorganic perovskites have attracted significant attention due to their remarkable optoelectronic properties and the feasibility of cost‐effective, high‐throughput manufacturing of perovskite solar cells (PSCs). The present p–i–n PSCs have poor film‐forming ability on poly[bis(4‐phenyl)(2,4,6‐trimethylphenyl)‐amine] (PTAA) film, resulting in a great number of defects within perovskite. Herein, the cerium ion (Ce3+) into the PTAA layer is successfully incorporated, which is thermal‐induced transferred onto the perovskite lattice and surface layer, by replacing Pb2+ in partial or uncoordinated metalsites and Ce3+–Ce4+ ion pair to suppress the bulk/surface defects, leading to a significantly enhanced power conversion efficiency (PCE). Systemically studies demonstrate that thermal‐induced Ce3+/4+‐doped MAPbI2.91Br0.09 thin film possesses superior film morphology with a uniform surface, suppressed nonradiative recombination, and enhanced crystallinity due to fewer bulk/surface defects. Moreover, PSCs by MAPbI2.91Br0.09/PTAA:xCe3+/4+ (x = 0.5 wt%) thin film exhibit suppressed charge carrier recombination and shorter charge carrier extraction time. As a result, PSCs by MAPbI2.91Br0.09/PTAA:xCe3+/4+ (x = 0.5 wt%) thin film exhibit PCE of 21.32% with significantly increased fill factor (FF) of 81.17% and long‐term stability. All these results indicate that the approach provides a facile way to incorporate rare‐earth ions into perovskites to boost the performance of PSCs.
On‐Orbit Performance Analysis of Solar Array in Mars Orbit Based on Tianwen‐1 Orbiter
Authors: Yang Ning , Li Jian , Zhao Wenqi , Lv Wenjia , Ge Shengyin , Ma Jusha , Liu Yong , Zhang Jianqin
Published: January 2023

Herein, the on‐orbit performance of the solar array in Mars orbit based on the Tianwen‐1 Orbiter is analyzed. Different portions divided by the flight orbit and power output of the solar array are illustrated in detail, including Mars capture orbit, parking orbit, relay and survey orbit, and global reconnaissance orbit. Photogenerated currents generally exhibit dramatic variation ascribed to the Sun‐Orbiter distance. Radiation degradation of the solar array on Mars orbit is analyzed after calibrating by the incident light intensity and working temperature. The daily degradation coefficient of photogenerated current is calculated to be 10 000, indicating the friendly radiation environment on Mars orbit. Besides, current enhancement of about 0.32 A and temperature enhancement range 12.5–35.3 °C induced by Mars‐shine are observed since parking orbit. The temperature of the Mars orbit is also studied in this article. The ultralow temperature of −180 °C in shadow conditions proposes an enormous challenge for the solar array. The present work will be helpful to deepen the understanding of Mars orbit and provide reference to the solar array design for Mars exploration spacecraft.
Development and validation of an ion chromatography‐ultraviolet method for determination of uric acid in the delactosed permeate
Authors: Tian Tian , Ormond Lindsey , Saini Charanjit , Liu Yan
Published: January 2023

In this study, we developed and validated a new analytical method for the quantitative evaluation of uric acid in delactosed permeate using ion chromatography coupled with an ultraviolet detector. Uric acid was extracted from delactosed permeate samples by diluted hydroxide solution at room temperature. The separation was carried out on a high‐capacity anion‐exchange column by isocratic elution with 50 mM potassium hydroxide. Uric acid was detected at 295 nm. The results from this study demonstrate that the new ion chromatography‐ultraviolet method facilitates both the resolution and the detection of uric acid and provides a highly accurate and sensitive determination of uric acid in delactosed permeate samples with minimal sample preparation effort. The new method provided an excellent range of analyte response linearity in the 2.5–255.6 ng range with R2 > 0.99. The limit of detection for uric acid obtained was 0.04 mg/kg in 1 mM sodium hydroxide. Intraday and interday variabilities were less than 3%, and the mean recoveries (%) of the uric acid spiked in two types of delactosed permeate were between 100.4% and 103.9%. This method was successfully applied to determine uric acid amounts in ten delactosed permeate samples.
Quantile regression with multiple proxy variables
Authors: Go Dongyoung , Hoon Jin Ick , Im Jongho
Published: January 2023

Data integration has become increasingly popular owing to the availability of multiple data sources. This study considered quantile regression estimation when a key covariate had multiple proxies across several datasets. In a unified estimation procedure, the proposed method incorporates multiple proxies that have both linear and nonlinear relationships with the unobserved covariates. The proposed approach allows the inference of both the quantile function and unobserved covariates and does not require the quantile function's linearity. Simulation studies have demonstrated that this methodology successfully integrates multiple proxies and reveals quantile relationships for a wide range of nonlinear data. The proposed method is applied to administrative data obtained from the Survey of Household Finances and Living Conditions provided by Statistics Korea, to specify the relationship between assets and salary income in the presence of multiple income records.
Corporeal Interactions inVRChat: Situational Intensity and Body Synchronization
Authors: Krell Felix , Wettmann Nico
Published: January 2023

Erving Goffman's work on interaction in everyday life focuses on joint spatio‐temporal and face‐to‐face situations and denies the constitution of social situations via mediatized interaction. In contrast, we argue that shared immersive media such as Social Virtual Reality enable intense, delocalized forms of co‐present interactions that constitute closeness and intimacy. By discussing Goffman in the context of current works that open up his perspective for mediatization, we present an understanding of social situations that focuses on intensity and synchronized embodiment—physical, digital, and corporeal. On the Social VR platform VRChat, synchronized bodies allow for intimate corporeal practices, such as cuddling, dancing, or cybersex. Virtual Reality technology facilitates delocalized forms of affective‐bodily interaction, thereby contributing to the social negotiation of mediatized closeness and intimacy—despite physical distance. Our findings are based on a digital ethnographic analysis of lifeworlds and practices of enthusiast VRChat‐users, combined with qualitative semi‐structured interviews.
In and Out of the Unknown: Lessons from Immigrant Families Promoting Multiliteracies During the COVID‐19 Pandemic
Authors: Li Guofang , Lin Zhen
Published: January 2023

How has the COVID‐19 pandemic changed the home literacy environment, parental engagement, and home‐school communications for children and families from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds? Data on the experiences of 231 Chinese‐Canadian immigrant families with K‐2 children revealed that emergency remote learning affected the home literacy environment in complex ways. While some experienced a decrease in mainstream language exposure, others also witnessed a decline in home language use and literacy engagement due to the closure of heritage language schools and absence of grandparents. Parents also differed in their ability, resources, and confidence level in supporting multiliteracies development at home during the pandemic. Moreover, there existed persistent barriers to effective home‐school communications despite the affordances of remote learning. The findings have important implications for both immigrant families and mainstream teachers in working collaboratively to support the children's needs in multiliteracies development.
Digitale Tools zur Optimierung der interdisziplinären Zusammenarbeit und des Lern- und Wissenstransfers – Entwicklung und Erprobung im Baugewerbe durch das Projekt IN-DIG-O
Authors: Rothenbusch Sandra , Mehner Laura , Gersie Carola , Brümmer Gabriele , Landers Christoph , Springmeyer Roland , Gessnitzer Sina , Kauffeld Simone
Published: January 2023

Das Baugewerbe wird – wenn auch langsam – digitalisiert (Telekom, 2020; Thonipara, Höhle, Proeger & Bizer, 2020). Betroffen sind Prozesse im Gebäudebau, bei denen mehrere Gewerke involviert sind. So sollen diese Prozesse beispielsweise durch Building Information Modeling (BIM) präziser, akkurater und schneller werden (Jacobsson & Merschbrock, 2018). Kleine und mittlere Unternehmen (KMU) verfügen jedoch häufig nicht über die benötigten Ressourcen und Kompetenzen, um adäquat an dieser Entwicklung zu partizipieren. Das Projekt IN-DIG-O unterstützt KMU zweifach: Es stellt mit dem digitalen Tool namens Koop-3D eine Ressource zur interdisziplinären Zusammenarbeit in der Planungs- und Ausführungsphase im Hausbau zur Verfügung, die sich an BIM orientiert und von Subunternehmen keine IT-Kenntnisse zur 3D-Planung erfordert. Parallel begleitet ein zweites digitales Tool – das LeWiT-Tool – gezielt die Optimierung des Kompetenzerwerbs der Mitarbeitenden von KMU. Mittels der Grundprinzipien der entwicklungsorientierten Evaluation (Kauffeld & Paulsen, 2018) fördert es eine offene Feedbackkultur sowie selbstbestimmte Zielsetzungen. Dadurch wird der Lerntransfer nach Weiterbildungen in den Arbeitsalltag und die Weitergabe des neuen Wissens an das Kollegium verbessert. Der vorliegende Beitrag gibt einen Einblick in die beiden digitalen Tools, stellt Evaluationsergebnisse vor und zieht Learnings aus der Entwicklungs- und Erprobungsphase der digitalen Tools.
Arbeitsgestaltung durch Kompetenzvermittlung in VR
Authors: Weigel Andreas , Baumgart Thorben Lukas , Heinlein Michael , Huchler Norbert , Niehaves Björn , Sauter Louisa , Schmallenbach Anne , Staiger Benjamin , Wittal Regina
Published: January 2023

Die Arbeitswelt und ihre Gestaltung befinden sich in einem stetigen Wandel. Der Einsatz neuer Technologien trägt dazu bei, die Innovationskraft und auch die allgemeine Attraktivität eines Unternehmens zu steigern. Dennoch müssen Unternehmen abwägen, ob ein solcher Einsatz auch unter wirtschaftlichen Gesichtspunkten erfolgsversprechend ist. VR-Technologien sind in den letzten Jahren deutlich erschwinglicher geworden und ihre Einsatzgebiete haben sich kontinuierlich weiterentwickelt. Die Gestaltung von virtuellen Umgebungen bietet umfangreiche Möglichkeiten. So nutzen Unternehmen virtuelle Showrooms zur Unterstützung des Verkaufsprozesses, setzen VR-Trainingsszenarien für die Aus- und Weiterbildung ihrer Mitarbeiter*innen ein, planen virtuelle Veranstaltungen als Antwort auf die Restriktionen der COVID-19 Pandemie oder beschäftigen sich mit virtuellen Kompetenzassistenten. Die Potentiale von VR-Technologien sind dabei weitreichend und können durch einen gezielten Einsatz vielversprechende Lösungen bieten. Das Projekt aSTAR verfolgte das Ziel, die Kompetenzvermittlung zwischen Konstrukteur*innen und Servicemitarbeiter*innen durch eine VR-Technologie zu unterstützen. Zu diesem Zweck wurden zunächst VR-Simulationen der Montage- und Wartungsszenarien am Kran entwickelt. Im Verlauf des Projektes entstand parallel eine VR-Software, die eine individuelle Gestaltung der VR-Umgebung ermöglicht. In die Software können unterschiedliche Kranmodelle sowie Umgebungen und Objekte geladen und flexibel platziert werden. Anschließend lassen sich Arbeitsschritte und -abläufe definieren, welche dann in der VR-Umgebung erlebt und bearbeitet werden können. Darüber hinaus sollte durch die VR-Entwicklung eine Möglichkeit entstehen, den CAD-Entwurf einfach in die VR zu übertragen (CAD2VR). Dies würde es den Konstrukteur*innen erlauben, ihren CAD-Entwurf in die VR zu laden und diesen dort aus einer Montage- und Serviceperspektive zu bewerten und bei Bedarf anzupassen. Durch die kontinuierliche Evaluation und Erhebung qualitativer Daten durch die Endanwender*innen konnte die Integration der VR-Technologie in bestehende Arbeitsprozesse aus vielen Perspektiven betrachtet werden. Somit können nun Strategien und Richtlinien formuliert werden, die die Integration der genannten VR-Szenarien und der CAD2VR-Anwendung unterstützen und übertragbare Ansätze für die Praxis liefern. Zusätzlich zu den VR-Technologien wurde eine Wissensplattform für die Montage- und Wartung am Kran aufgesetzt. Diese hatte zum Ziel, basierend auf einem intelligenten Suchalgorithmus, durch das Scannen von z. B. QR-Codes Informationen (Bedienungsanleitungen, Zusatzinformationen für bestimmte Krantypen) zur Montage- und Wartungsunterstützung bereitzustellen.
Automorphisms of finite order, periodic contractions, and Poisson-commutative subalgebras of $${\mathcal {S}}({\mathfrak g})$$
Authors: Panyushev Dmitri I. , Yakimova Oksana S.
Published: January 2023

Let $${\mathfrak g}$$
g
be a semisimple Lie algebra, $$\vartheta \in \textsf{Aut}({\mathfrak g})$$

ϑ
∈
Aut
(
g
)

a finite order automorphism, and $${\mathfrak g}_0$$

g
0

the subalgebra of fixed points of $$\vartheta $$
ϑ
. Recently, we noticed that using $$\vartheta $$
ϑ
one can construct a pencil of compatible Poisson brackets on $${\mathcal {S}}({\mathfrak g})$$

S
(
g
)

, and thereby a ‘large’ Poisson-commutative subalgebra $${\mathcal {Z}}({\mathfrak g},\vartheta )$$

Z
(
g
,
ϑ
)

of $${\mathcal {S}}({\mathfrak g})^{{\mathfrak g}_0}$$

S

(
g
)

g
0

. In this article, we study invariant-theoretic properties of $$({\mathfrak g},\vartheta )$$

(
g
,
ϑ
)

that ensure good properties of $${\mathcal {Z}}({\mathfrak g},\vartheta )$$

Z
(
g
,
ϑ
)

. Associated with $$\vartheta $$
ϑ
one has a natural Lie algebra contraction $${\mathfrak g}_{(0)}$$

g

(
0
)

of $${\mathfrak g}$$
g
and the notion of a good generating system (=g.g.s.) in $${\mathcal {S}}({\mathfrak g})^{\mathfrak g}$$

S

(
g
)

g

. We prove that in many cases the equality $$\mathrm{ind\,}{\mathfrak g}_{(0)}=\mathrm{ind\,}{\mathfrak g}$$

ind

g

(
0
)

=

ind

g

holds and $${\mathcal {S}}({\mathfrak g})^{\mathfrak g}$$

S

(
g
)

g

has a g.g.s. According to V. G. Kac’s classification of finite order automorphisms (1969), $$\vartheta $$
ϑ
can be represented by a Kac diagram, $$\mathcal {K}(\vartheta )$$

K
(
ϑ
)

, and our results often use this presentation. The most surprising observation is that $${\mathfrak g}_{(0)}$$

g

(
0
)

depends only on the set of nodes in $$\mathcal {K}(\vartheta )$$

K
(
ϑ
)

with nonzero labels, and that if $$\vartheta $$
ϑ
is inner and a certain label is nonzero, then $${\mathfrak g}_{(0)}$$

g

(
0
)

is isomorphic to a parabolic contraction of $${\mathfrak g}$$
g
.
Spontaneous Retroperitoneal Haemorrhage: Efficacy of Conservative Management and Embolisation
Authors: Lukies Matthew , Gipson Jacob , Tan Sia Yang , Clements Warren
Published: January 2023

Purpose

To assess the efficacy of conservative management and embolisation in patients with spontaneous retroperitoneal haemorrhage.

Methods

Single-centre retrospective case–control study of patients with spontaneous retroperitoneal haemorrhage treated conservatively or with embolisation. Patients aged ≥ 18 years were identified from CT imaging reports stating a diagnosis of retroperitoneal haemorrhage or similar and images reviewed for confirmation. Exclusion criteria included recent trauma, surgery, retroperitoneal vascular line insertion, or other non-spontaneous aetiology.

Datapoints analysed included treatment approach (conservative or embolisation), technical success, clinical success, and mortality outcome.

Results

A total of 54 patients met inclusion criteria, who were predominantly anticoagulated (74%), male (72%), older adults (mean age 69 years), with active haemorrhage on CT (52%). Overall mortality was 15%. Clinical success was more likely with conservative management (36/38) than embolisation (9/16; p < 0.01), and all-cause (1/38 vs 7/16; p < 0.01) and uncontrolled primary bleeding (1/38 vs 5/16; p < 0.01) mortality were higher with embolisation. However, embolised patients more commonly had active bleeding on CT (15/38 vs 13/16; p < 0.01), shock (5/38 vs 6/16; p < 0.04), and higher blood transfusion volumes (mean 2.2 vs 5.9 units; p < 0.01). After one-to-one propensity score matching, differences in clinical success (p = 0.04) and all-cause mortality (p = 0.01) remained; however, difference in uncontrolled primary bleeding mortality did not (p = 0.07).

Conclusion

Conservative management of SRH is likely to be effective in most patients, even in those who are anticoagulated and haemodynamically unstable, with variable success seen after embolisation in a more unstable patient group, supporting the notion that resuscitation and optimisation of coagulation are the most vital components of treatment.
Super-resolution microscopy reveals the number and distribution of topoisomerase IIα and CENH3 molecules within barley metaphase chromosomes
Authors: Kubalová Ivona , Weisshart Klaus , Houben Andreas , Schubert Veit
Published: January 2023

Topoisomerase IIα (Topo IIα) and the centromere-specific histone H3 variant CENH3 are key proteins involved in chromatin condensation and centromere determination, respectively. Consequently, they are required for proper chromosome segregation during cell divisions. We combined two super-resolution techniques, structured illumination microscopy (SIM) to co-localize Topo IIα and CENH3, and photoactivated localization microscopy (PALM) to determine their molecule numbers in barley metaphase chromosomes. We detected a dispersed Topo IIα distribution along chromosome arms but an accumulation at centromeres, telomeres, and nucleolus-organizing regions. With a precision of 10-50 nm, we counted ~ 20,000-40,000 Topo IIα molecules per chromosome, 28% of them within the (peri)centromere. With similar precision, we identified ~13,500 CENH3 molecules per centromere where Topo IIα proteins and CENH3-containing chromatin intermingle. In short, we demonstrate PALM as a useful method to count and localize single molecules with high precision within chromosomes. The ultrastructural distribution and the detected amount of Topo IIα and CENH3 are instrumental for a better understanding of their functions during chromatin condensation and centromere determination.
Biphenotypic sinonasal sarcoma with PAX3::MAML3 fusion transforming into high-grade rhabdomyosarcoma: report of an emerging rare phenomenon
Authors: Meyer Anders , Klubíčková Natálie , Mosaieby Elaheh , Grossmann Petr , Kalmykova Antonina , Koshyk Olena , Michal Michael
Published: January 2023

We report a case of a 67-year-old male patient with a sinonasal tumor that showed areas of classic biphenotypic sinonasal sarcoma (BSNS) which in some sections sharply transitioned into high-grade rhabdomyosarcoma. Immunohistochemically, the conventional BSNS parts showed S100 protein, SMA, PAX7, and focal MyoD1 expression, whereas desmin and myogenin were negative. In contrast, the cells in high-grade areas expressed desmin, MyoD1, myogenin, and PAX7, while being negative for S100 protein and SMA. Using the Archer FusionPlex assay, the classical PAX3::MAML3 gene fusion was detected. FISH for PAX3 and MAML3 confirmed a break of these genes in both components. Despite aggressive therapy, the tumor progression resulted in the patient’s death. The herein presented case, together with 2 previously published cases of BSNS with high-grade transformation, helps to better understand this novel phenomenon. Although the risk for such transformation appears low, it has important clinical and diagnostic implications which are discussed.
Classification of barely visible impact damage in composite laminates using deep learning and pulsed thermographic inspection
Authors: Deng Kailun , Liu Haochen , Yang Lichao , Addepalli Sri , Zhao Yifan
Published: January 2023

With the increasingly comprehensive utilisation of Carbon Fibre-Reinforced Polymers (CFRP) in modern industry, defects detection and characterisation of these materials have become very important and draw significant research attention. During the past 10 years, Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies have been attractive in this area due to their outstanding ability in complex data analysis tasks. Most current AI-based studies on damage characterisation in this field focus on damage segmentation and depth measurement, which also faces the bottleneck of lacking adequate experimental data for model training. This paper proposes a new framework to understand the relationship between Barely Visible Impact Damage features occurring in typical CFRP laminates to their corresponding controlled drop-test impact energy using a Deep Learning approach. A parametric study consisting of one hundred CFRP laminates with known material specification and identical geometric dimensions were subjected to drop-impact tests using five different impact energy levels. Then Pulsed Thermography was adopted to reveal the subsurface impact damage in these specimens and recorded damage patterns in temporal sequences of thermal images. A convolutional neural network was then employed to train models that aim to classify captured thermal photos into different groups according to their corresponding impact energy levels. Testing results of models trained from different time windows and lengths were evaluated, and the best classification accuracy of 99.75% was achieved. Finally, to increase the transparency of the proposed solution, a salience map is introduced to understand the learning source of the produced models.
Loss of lumbar disc height with age and its impact on pain and sensitivity associated behaviors in mice
Authors: Vincent Kathleen F. , Bundock Jacqueline , Dona Chethana Prabodhanie Gallage , Chenna Srish S. , Mohanty Sarthak , Saini Chandan , Hong Justin , Albert Todd J. , Dahia Chitra L.
Published: January 2023

Purpose

Aging is a risk factor for several debilitating conditions including those related to chronic back pain and intervertebral disc degeneration, both of which have no cure. Mouse models are useful tools for studying disc degeneration and chronic back pain in a tightly controlled and clinically relevant aging environment. Moreover, mice offer the advantage of carrying out longitudinal studies to understand the etiology and progression of disc pathology induced by genetic or surgical strategies. Previously, age-related behavioral trends of discomfort and enhanced nociception in mice were reported; however, whether these measures are mediated by structural and pathological changes in the disc is unknown.

Methods

The goal of the present observational study was to identify behavioral correlates of age-related degenerative changes in the disc. Towards this, we collected radiographs from 150 mice (77 females) between three and 23 months of age and measured the disc height index for each level of lumbar disc. Behavioral measures were collected on several of these mice which included rearing and distance travelled in an open field test; time spent in rearing, reaching, immobile, and self-suspended in the tail suspension test; bilateral hind paw licking in response to cold allodynia using acetone; and unilateral hind paw licking in response to heat hyperalgesia using capsaicin.

Results

Results show that the lower lumbar discs lose height with age and these changes are independent of body composition measures including body weight, bone mineral density, fat mass, lean weight mass, percent fat mass, and percent lean mass. Disc height positively correlates with rearing and mobility in the open field test, immobility in the tail suspension test, and thermal hyperalgesia. Disc height negatively correlates with cold allodynia and rearing in the tail suspension test. Furthermore, mediation analysis shows that the lumbosacral disc significantly mediates the effect of age on rearing in the open field test, but not cold allodynia, suggesting this behavior is a useful measure of age-related axial discomfort due to disc degeneration.

Conclusion

In summary, the findings from the current study show that disc height are associated with measures of axial discomfort and nociception in mice.
Clinical and microbiological efficacy of indocyanine green-based antimicrobial photodynamic therapy as an adjunct to non-surgical treatment of periodontitis: a randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Annunziata Marco , Donnarumma Giovanna , Guida Agostino , Nastri Livia , Persico Gerardo , Fusco Alessandra , Sanz-Sánchez Ignacio , Guida Luigi
Published: January 2023

Objectives

The aim of the present randomized clinical trial (RCT) with a parallel arm design was to evaluate the clinical and microbiological efficacy of repeated ICG-aPDT as an adjunct to full-mouth subgingival debridement in the treatment of periodontitis.

Materials and methods

Twenty-four periodontitis patients were treated with full-mouth ultrasonic subgingival debridement (FMUD). Initial sites with probing depth (PD) > 4 mm were randomly assigned to receive the test (ICG-aPDT with an 810 nm diode laser) or the control treatment (off-mode aPDT) one and four weeks after FMUD. Clinical parameters were registered after 3 and 6 months. The presence of the main periodontal pathogens in subgingival samples was assessed with real-time PCR.

Results

Both treatment modalities resulted in significant clinical improvements at 3 and 6 months. The only significant differences in favour of the test group were found at 6 months for a higher PD reduction in initial deep pockets (PD ≥ 6 mm) and a higher percentage of closed pockets (PD ≤ 4 mm/no bleeding on probing). Limited microbiological changes were observed in both groups after treatment with no inter-group difference, except for a more significant reduction in Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans and Parvimonas micra levels in the test group at 3 months.

Conclusion

The combination of repeated ICG-aPDT and FMUD provided no benefits except for selective clinical and microbiological improvements compared to FMUD alone.

Clinical relevance

Based on the obtained results, only limited adjunctive effects could be found for the combined use of ICG-aPDT and FMUD. Further, well-designed RCT with larger sample sizes are required to confirm these findings.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04671394.
What treatment outcomes matter in adolescent depression? A Q-study of priority profiles among mental health practitioners in the UK and Chile
Authors: Krause Karolin Rose , Calderón Ana , Pino Victor Gomez , Edbrooke-Childs Julian , Moltrecht Bettina , Wolpert Miranda
Published: January 2023

Evidence-based and person-centred care requires the measurement of treatment outcomes that matter to youth and mental health practitioners. Priorities, however, may vary not just between but also within stakeholder groups. This study used Q-methodology to explore differences in outcome priorities among mental health practitioners from two countries in relation to youth depression. Practitioners from the United Kingdom (UK) (n = 27) and Chile (n = 15) sorted 35 outcome descriptions by importance and completed brief semi-structured interviews about their sorting rationale. By-person principal component analysis (PCA) served to identify distinct priority profiles within each country sample; second-order PCA examined whether these profiles could be further reduced into cross-cultural “super profiles”. We identified three UK outcome priority profiles (Reduced symptoms and enhanced well-being; improved individual coping and self-management; improved family coping and support), and two Chilean profiles (Strengthened identity and enhanced insight; symptom reduction and self-management). These could be further reduced into two cross-cultural super profiles: one prioritized outcomes related to reduced depressive symptoms and enhanced well-being; the other prioritized outcomes related to improved resilience resources within youth and families. A practitioner focus on symptom reduction aligns with a long-standing focus on symptomatic change in youth depression treatment studies, and with recent measurement recommendations. Less data and guidance are available to those practitioners who prioritize resilience outcomes. To raise the chances that such practitioners will engage in evidence-based practice and measurement-based care, measurement guidance for a broader set of outcomes may be needed.
Characterisation of the conveying effect of turned radial shaft seal counter-surfaces using a simplified hydrodynamic simulation model
Authors: Thielen Stefan , Subramanian Thirumanikandan , Sauer Bernd , Koch Oliver , Börner Richard , Junge Thomas , Schubert Andreas
Published: January 2023

A typical sealing system for rotating shafts consists of the radial shaft sealing ring (RSS), the lubricant and the shaft counter-surface (SCS) of the rotating shaft. The properties of the machined surface of the SCS have an impact on the sealing system. The structural pattern of the SCS influences the lubricant flow along the axial direction. In this paper, a simplified micro scale hydrodynamic simulation model is presented in order to study and determine the axial flow of the lubricant induced by the SCS of the sealing system, isolated from the effects induced by the seal, to allow for a rating of the shaft surface. The influence of the seal was neglected to allow for a simplified simulation. Simulated shaft surfaces corresponding to different machining parameters of machined SCS are used as input. These variants of SCS were created using a kinematic model which simulates an ideal surface machining process of the shaft. A micro scale hydrodynamic simulation model is used to investigate the influence of machining parameters on the lubricant flow along the axial direction across the tribo-contact. From this investigation, the connection between parameters applied for machining of the SCS and conveying effects can be estimated. The simulation model is also validated with experimental results of hard turned shafts of different machining parameters. Differences between manufactured real surfaces and kinematically simulated surfaces are the cause of deviations between the results.
An empirical study of automated unit test generation for Python
Authors: Lukasczyk Stephan , Kroiß Florian , Fraser Gordon
Published: January 2023

Various mature automated test generation tools exist for statically typed programming languages such as Java. Automatically generating unit tests for dynamically typed programming languages such as Python, however, is substantially more difficult due to the dynamic nature of these languages as well as the lack of type information. Our Pynguin framework provides automated unit test generation for Python. In this paper, we extend our previous work on Pynguin to support more aspects of the Python language, and by studying a larger variety of well-established state of the art test-generation algorithms, namely DynaMOSA, MIO, and MOSA. Furthermore, we improved our Pynguin tool to generate regression assertions, whose quality we also evaluate. Our experiments confirm that evolutionary algorithms can outperform random test generation also in the context of Python, and similar to the Java world, DynaMOSA yields the highest coverage results. However, our results also demonstrate that there are still fundamental remaining issues, such as inferring type information for code without this information, currently limiting the effectiveness of test generation for Python.
Development of analytical and FEM solutions for static and dynamic analysis of smart piezoelectric laminated composite plates on elastic foundation
Authors: Chanda Aniket Gopa , Kontoni Denise-Penelope N. , Sahoo Rosalin
Published: January 2023

This paper proposes new analytical and finite element solutions for studying the effects of elastic foundations on the uncontrolled and controlled static and vibration responses of smart multi-layered laminated composite plates with integrated piezoelectric layers, acting as actuators and sensors. A non-polynomial higher-order plate theory with zigzag kinematics involving a trigonometric function and a local segmented zigzag function is adopted for the first time for modeling the deformation of a smart piezoelectric laminated composite plate supported on an elastic foundation. This model has only five independent primary variables like that of the first-order shear deformation theory, yet it considers the realistic parabolic behavior of the transverse shear stresses across the thickness of the laminated composites plates, and also maintains the continuity conditions of transverse shear stresses at the interfaces of the laminated plates. A two-parameter foundation model, namely Pasternak’s foundation, is used to model the deformation and shear interactions of the elastic foundation. The governing set of equations is derived by implementing Hamilton’s principle and variational calculus. Two different solution methods, namely, a generalized closed-form analytical solution of Navier-type, and a C0 isoparametric finite element (FE) formulation, are developed for solving the governing set of equations. The solutions in the time domain are obtained with Newmark’s average acceleration method. Comprehensive parametric studies are presented to investigate the influence of elastic foundation parameters, piezoelectric layers, loading, and boundary conditions on the static and dynamic responses of the smart composite plates with piezoelectric layers. The effects of the elastic foundations on the vibration control of the smart composite plates are also presented by coupling the piezoelectric actuator and sensor with a feedback controller. Several benchmark results are presented to show the influence of the various material and geometrical parameters on the controlled and uncontrolled responses of the smart plates, and also the significant effect of the elastic foundations on the static and dynamic responses of the smart structures. The results obtained are in very good agreement with the available literature, and it can be concluded that the proposed analytical solution and FE formulation can be efficiently used to model the static and dynamic electro-elastic behavior of smart laminated plates supported on elastic foundations.
Honey, There´s Something on My Mind… Adverse Consequences of Negative and Positive Work Rumination on Attention to the Partner, and the Advantage of Talking About it
Authors: Schoellbauer Julia , Tement Sara , Korunka Christian
Published: January 2023

In the contemporary 24/7 working society, the separation of work and private life is increasingly turning into an unrealizable ideal. Ruminating about work outside the work context lets work spill over into private lives and affects the dynamics of workers’ private relationships. Although negative work rumination was linked to couples’ reduced relationship satisfaction, little is known about the mechanism of action and the impact of positive work rumination. Drawing on the load theory of selective attention, we hypothesize that both negative and positive work rumination occupy attentional resources and thus reduce workers' attention to the partner on the same day. Lower levels of attention to the partner, in turn, should relate to lower levels of both partners’relationship satisfaction. However, sharing the work-related thoughts with the partner might support the resolution of the work issue the worker is ruminating about, which releases attentional resources and thus buffers the negative association between rumination and attention to the partner. We conducted a daily diary study and the findings based on 579 daily dyadic observations from 42 dual‐earner couples support the proposed cognitive spillover-crossover mechanism and the buffer mechanism of thought-sharing. We conclude that negative and positive work rumination takes up scarce attentional resources and thus jeopardizes relationship quality. However, sharing thoughts with one's partner seems to be a useful strategy for couples to maintain or even increase their relationship satisfaction in the light of work rumination.
Social evaluation functionals with an arbitrary set of alternatives
Authors: Candeal Juan C.
Published: January 2023

This paper explores the concept of a social evaluation functional in the case of an arbitrary set of alternatives. In the first part, a characterization of projective social evaluations functionals is shown whenever the common restricted domain is the set of all bounded utility functions equipped with the supremum norm topology. The result makes a crucial use, among others, of a continuity axiom. In the second part, a comparison meaningful property is introduced for a social evaluation functional which allows us for obtaining a more general result with no continuity requirements. Finally, an impossibility theorem, which is reminiscent of that is obtained by Chichilnisky in (Q J Econ 97:337–352, 1982) but without using topological conditions, is offered.
Effects of related decorative pictures on learning and metacognition
Authors: Scherer Demian , Verkühlen Annika , Dutke Stephan
Published: January 2023

Research suggests that explanatory pictures support learning, whereas pictures that distract processing resources from the main ideas of a text may impair learning and are considered as seductive illustrations. However, non-explanatory pictures that are related to the text and that do not tempt readers to focus illustrations more than the text’s main ideas might improve learning through spreading activation processes during learning. This effect might be reflected in memory measures or in metacognitive measures. Therefore, in two experiments, we tested related decorative pictures for positive effects on knowledge and transfer performance and metacognitive monitoring. Results indicate positive effects of related pictures on knowledge acquisition (Experiment 1) and metacognitive monitoring (Experiment 2). In neither experiment, related pictures enhanced transfer performance or interest (measured as triggered and maintained situational interest). This pattern of results can be explained by automatic mutual facilitation of related materials based on spreading activation processes.
Microplastic surface retention and mobility on hiking trails
Authors: Forster Nicola Ann , Wilson Susan Caroline , Tighe Matthew Kevin
Published: January 2023

Hiking and trail running are a source of microplastic (MP) pollution on recreational trails in wilderness and conservation areas; however, the fate of MPs deposited on trails is poorly understood as MP mobility on such surfaces has not yet been examined. In this study, we simulated heavy rainfall (100 mm/h) on trail surfaces with existing MP pollution (in situ MPs) and spiked with 99 ± 2 rubber MPs (100–940 μm). Runoff was collected for 15 min and spiked and in situ MPs were quantified. Hydrological, erosional and microplastic responses were evaluated in relation to slope, bulk density, soil moisture and surface condition indicators, including amounts and types of surface cover and soil physical attributes. The MPs were largely immobile, with 85–100% of spiked MPs retained on trail surfaces. In situ MPs were detected in the trail runoff, with the majority being polyurethane, polypropylene and polyester. Microplastic movement was primarily influenced by hydrological effects, and analysis indicated the main explanatory variable was total runoff volume, followed by soil slaking. Trail sections with at least 15% herbaceous cover or a layer of loose alluvium had higher MP retention. Areas of resource accrual may be preferentially enriched, suggesting MPs from outdoor recreation may be concentrated on and adjacent to recreational trails. Microplastics deposited on trails may have long term implications for biodiversity and ecosystem functioning in wilderness and conservation areas, particularly around the trail corridor.
Cervical spine injury: clinical and medico-legal overview
Authors: Zanza Christian , Tornatore Gilda , Naturale Cristina , Longhitano Yaroslava , Saviano Angela , Piccioni Andrea , Maiese Aniello , Ferrara Michela , Volonnino Gianpietro , Bertozzi Giuseppe , Grassi Roberta , Donati Fabrizio , Karaboue Michele Ahmed Antonio
Published: January 2023

Spinal trauma is an important cause of disability worldwide. Injury to the cervical spine (CS) occurs frequently after major trauma. 5–10% of patients with blunt trauma have a cervical spine injury. The cervical spine accounts for ~ 50% of all spinal injuries. Determination of CS stability is a common challenge in the acute care setting of patients with trauma. Several issues, indeed, are of particular concern: who needs CS imaging; what imaging should be obtained; when should computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or flexion/extension (F/E) radiographs be obtained; and how is significant ligamentous injury excluded in the comatose patient. CT and MRI both have roles to play. This article aims to present the different imaging to frame techniques to be used with greater precision in the acute event also for the purpose of planning the next therapeutic process. An overview of the applicability of the same methods in forensic pathology is also provided highlighting possible future biomarker to ease in diagnosis of acute TBI.
Automated image fusion during endovascular aneurysm repair: a feasibility and accuracy study
Authors: Smorenburg Stefan P. M. , Lely Rutger J. , Smit-Ockeloen Iris , Yeung Kak Khee , Hoksbergen Arjan W. J.
Published: January 2023

Purpose

Image fusion merges preoperative computed tomography angiography (CTA) with live fluoroscopy during endovascular procedures to function as an overlay 3D roadmap. However, in most current systems, the registration between imaging modalities is performed manually by vertebral column matching which can be subjective, inaccurate and time consuming depending on experience. Our objective was to evaluate feasibility and accuracy of image-based automated 2D-3D image fusion between preoperative CTA and intraoperative fluoroscopy based on vertebral column matching.

Methods

A single-center study with offline procedure data was conducted in 10 consecutive patients which had endovascular aortic repair in which we evaluated unreleased automated fusion software provided by Philips (Best, the Netherlands). Fluoroscopy and digital subtraction angiography images were collected after the procedures and the vertebral column was fused fully automatically. Primary endpoints were feasibility and accuracy of bone alignment (mm). Secondary endpoint was vascular alignment (mm) between the lowest renal artery orifices. Clinical non-inferiority was defined at a mismatch of < 1 mm.

Results

In total, 87 automated measurements and 40 manual measurements were performed on vertebrae T12–L5 in all 10 patients. Manual correction was needed in 3 of the 10 patients due to incomplete visibility of the vertebral edges in the fluoroscopy image. Median difference between automated fusion and manual fusion was 0.1 mm for bone alignment (p = 0.94). The vascular alignment was 4.9 mm (0.7–17.5 mm) for manual and 5.5 mm (1.0–14.0 mm) for automated fusion. This did not improve, due to the presence of stiff wires and stent graft.

Conclusion

Automated image fusion was feasible when all vertebral edges were visible. Accuracy was non-inferior to manual image fusion regarding bone alignment. Future developments should focus on intraoperative image-based correction of vascular alignment.