bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Inertial measurement unit signal-based machine learning methods for frailty assessment in geriatric health
Authors: Amjad Arslan , Szczęsna Agnieszka , Błaszczyszyn Monika , Anwar Aamir 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Frailty is a geriatric syndrome that may result in poor health outcomes such as hospitalization, disability, psychological distress, and reduced life satisfaction, and it is also associated with higher healthcare costs. The aim of this study is to classify frailty in elders at an early stage (pre-frail) to lower the risk of frailty and, hence, improve the quality of life. The other two classes in the classification task are frail and robust (non-frail). To achieve this, a dataset based on gait was utilized, which was recorded by an Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) sensor, including gyroscope and accelerometer data. In this study, two approaches were assessed: the first used advanced Deep Learning (DL) algorithms to analyze raw IMU signals, and the second used conventional Machine Learning (ML) methods with hand-crafted features. The DL model, i.e., InceptionTime, beat the other algorithms in the DL approach with a remarkable test accuracy of 98%. On the ML side, Random Forest reported the most successful ML method, which achieved a test accuracy of 63.3%. For a careful assessment of the models, other evaluation metrics like Precision, Recall, and F1-score were also evaluated. The evaluation of both approaches produces research benefits for the classification of frailty in older people and allows for the investigation of new areas, promoting deeper comprehension and well-informed decision-making, particularly in healthcare systems.
Mueller matrix polarimetry for quantitative evaluation of the Achilles tendon injury recovery
Authors: Yang Huibin , Xu Minhui , He Honghui , Zeng Nan , Song Jiawei , Huang Tongyu , Liang Ziyang , Ma Hui 
Published: December 2024

AbstractAchilles tendon injuries, as a widely existing disease, have attracted a lot of research interest. Mueller matrix polarimetry, as a novel label-free quantitative imaging method, has been widely used in various applications of lesion identification and pathological diagnosis. However, focusing on the recovery process of Achilles tendon injuries, current optical imaging methods have not yet achieved the label-free precise identification and quantitative evaluation. In this study, using Mueller matrix polarimetry, various Achilles tendon injury samples were characterized specifically, and the efficacy of different recovery schemes was evaluated accordingly. Experiments indicate that injured Achilles tendons show less phase retardance, larger diattenuation, and relatively disordered orientation. The combination of experiments with Monte Carlo simulation results illustrate the microscopic mechanism of the Achilles tendon recovery process from three aspects, that is, the increased fiber diameter, a more consistent fiber orientation, and greater birefringence induced by more collagen protein. Finally, based on the statistical distribution of polarization measurements, a polarization specific characterization parameter was extracted to construct a label-free image, which cannot only intuitively show the injury and recovery of Achilles tendon samples, but also give a quantitative evaluation of the treatment.
Graphical Abstract
Psychometric Properties and Factor Structure of the Swedish Version of the Self-Compassion Scale
Authors: Bratt Anna Sofia , Marcusson-Clavertz David , Ozolins Andrejs , Carlsson Rickard 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Objectives
Research suggests that self-compassion, characterized by an open and caring attitude toward oneself during challenging situations, can serve as a protective factor against mental health challenges. In research and clinical practice, self-compassion is typically assessed using the Self-Compassion Scale (SCS). Although the short form of the SCS (SCS-SF) has been studied in Sweden, the full SCS remains relatively unexplored. The aim of this study was to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Swedish translation of the SCS in a university student population.

Method
We assessed internal consistency, test-retest reliability, and factor structure using Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) and Exploratory Structural Equation Modeling (ESEM). Additionally, we assessed the concurrent validity of the SCS by correlating it with perceived stress and alcohol consumption.

Results
The results of the CFA and ESEM analyses indicated adequate fit for the 6-factor model, whereas the 1-factor and 2-factor models showed inadequate fit. The 1-bifactor and 2-bifactor ESEM analyses also indicated adequate fit, but the corresponding CFA analyses did not converge. As expected, self-compassion correlated negatively with perceived stress and alcohol consumption.

Conclusion
Our findings support the reliability of the Swedish version of the SCS. These psychometric properties are comparable to those of the original version. This validation is essential for its use in Swedish research and clinical contexts.

Preregistration
This study was not preregistered.
Kalman filter framework for a regional mass change model from GRACE satellite gravity
Authors: Wöhnke Viviana , Eicker Annette , Weigelt Matthias , Reich Marvin , Güntner Andreas , Kvas Andreas , Mayer-Gürr Torsten 
Published: December 2024

AbstractIn this study a regional modelling framework for water mass changes is developed. The approach can introduce geodetic observation types of varying temporal and spatial resolution including their correlated error information. For this purpose a Kalman filter process was set up using a regional parameterisation by space-localising radial basis functions and a process model based on stochastic prediction. The feasibility of the approach is confirmed in a closed-loop simulation experiment using gridded water storage estimates derived from simulated monthly solutions of the GRACE satellite gravimetry mission and considering realistic error patterns. The resulting mass change time series exhibit strongly reduced noise and a very high agreement with the reference model. The modelling framework is designed to flexibly allow a future extension towards combining satellite gravimetry with other geodetic observations such as GNSS station displacements or terrestrial gravimetry.
An Integrated Seismic Assessment Method for Urban Buildings and Roads
Authors: Zhang Siwei , Li Shuang , Zhai Changhai , Xiao Jia 
Published: December 2024

AbstractSeismic simulation of urban buildings and roads is significant for regional pre-disaster mitigation and post-disaster recovery. To consider the interrelated influences of buildings and roads, an integrated seismic assessment method for urban buildings and roads is proposed. The seismic damages of buildings were assessed using various methods based on structural characteristics and different degrees of available building information. Both physical and topological characteristics of the road network are considered in the proposed method to determine post-earthquake road network traffic capacity. To quantitatively evaluate post-earthquake road network traffic capacity, we comprehensively considered the seismic damage to roads, blockages caused by earthquake-induced debris, and the potential risk of falling debris from damaged buildings. The proposed integrated seismic assessment method was applied to a real earthquake event to demonstrate its feasibility and effectiveness, and also applied to a real city, of which information on buildings and roads was based on open-source data and statistical data, to demonstrate its applicability. The proposed method provides a solid prediction on the seismic performance of urban buildings and road networks, serving as a reference for urban earthquake disaster rescue and relief.
A City-Level Integrated Case Base Design for Systemic Disaster Risk Management
Authors: Yu Feng , Yao Chen , Dengzheng Chaoxiong , Deng Qing , Li Xiangyang 
Published: December 2024

AbstractUrban disaster risks show multi-stage evolution and interconnected coupling features. Under time pressure, case-based reasoning (CBR) has emerged as a critical method for risk management decision making. Case-based reasoning tackles target case problems by leveraging solutions from similar historical cases. However, the current case base is inadequate for storing systemic risk cases, thus impeding CBR efficacy. This article presents a city-level integrated case base with a nested cross structure to facilitate the use of CBR in systemic risk management. It comprises a multi-layer vertical dimension and a multi-scale horizontal dimension. The vertical dimension is optimized to a four-layer (environment-hazard-object-aftermath) risk scenario classification system with taxonomy and fuzzy clustering analysis. The horizontal dimension is improved to a three-scale (network-chain-pair) risk association mode using event chain theory and association analysis. Hazard acts as the pivotal link between the two dimensions. An illustrative example displays the use process of the proposed case base, along with a discussion of its CBR-supported applications. Through the digital transformation, the suggested case base can serve government decision making with CBR, enhancing the city’s capability to reduce systemic risk.
Improving Complex Problem-Solving in Emergency Response: A Study of the Fire and Rescue Service in Sweden
Authors: Vylund Lotta , Jacobsson Joel , Frykmer Tove , Eriksson Kerstin 
Published: December 2024

AbstractThis study explored how the Swedish Fire and Rescue Service identifies problems and implements necessary actions during complex problem-solving in emergencies, aiming to increase our understanding of this process. Primary and secondary data from large-scale fire events were analyzed, including semistructured interviews and incident reports. The concept of “possibility space” is applied to identify factors affecting complex problem-solving. This refers to the scope of action available at a specific point in time for a particular operation. The study identified eight factors, including problem identification, incident development, capability, collaboration, management, legal framework, logistics, and time available, that could either decrease or increase the scope of action. The findings contribute to an increased understanding of complex problem-solving in real-world environments and suggest that the possibility space could be a valuable tool for practitioners in enhancing problem-solving during emergency response.
A governability lesson for the Blue Economy: the collapse of mobile salmon aquaculture in the Norwegian coastal zone
Authors: Jensen Daniel , Sønvisen Signe A. , Johnsen Jahn Petter 
Published: December 2024

AbstractInspired by governability and evolutionary governance theory, this paper studies innovative aquaculture technologies that aim to contribute to the transition toward a sustainable blue economy. By tracing path, inter-, and goal dependencies, we explore a case related to developing new production systems in the Norwegian salmon aquaculture industry. As further development using conventional production systems is deemed unsustainable, the government has incentivised technological innovation to alleviate environmental and spatial pressures limiting industry expansion. We describe the work behind enrolling one innovative technology into the coastal governance system. As we find, there are conflicts between the conditions in governance that technological innovations depend on for realisation versus the conditions the governance system depends on for governability. Through our relational approach, we display how innovation challenges governability and that achieving Blue Economy objectives may require considerable political and administrative reorganisation of the existing governance setup.
Optimisation of LPBF process parameters and residual stress analyses of Invar-10wt% TiC and Invar-10wt% TiN metal matrix composites
Authors: Oyedeji Ayodeji Nathaniel , Sacks Natasha , Venter Andrew Michael , Marais Deon , Pötschke Johannes 
Published: December 2024

AbstractTo enhance the mechanical properties of Invar (Fe–36Ni) for a broader range of applications, reinforcement with Titanium Carbide (TiC) and Titanium Nitride (TiN) was investigated. Laser powder bed fusion was used to manufacture the Invar metal matrix composites with TiC and TiN respective additions. Optimization of the process parameters was conducted using response surface methodology. The optimal parameters for Invar-TiC are 180 W laser power with a scanning speed of 450 mm/s, while for Invar-TiN, the optimal parameters are 190 W laser power with a scanning speed of 400 mm/s. High densities (> 99%) and significant improvements in hardness were achieved. X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy analyses confirmed the uptake of TiC and TiN into the Invar matrix, leading to the enhanced properties. Residual stress evaluation through non-destructive neutron diffraction (ND) measurements and inherent strain modelling (ISM) simulations was done. The addition of TiC and TiN to the Invar matrix influenced the stress distribution, with Invar-TiC showing higher tensile stresses due to its thermal conductivity properties, and higher compressive stresses due to grain refinement. Close agreement was found between the ISM simulation and ND-measured results, indicating predominantly compressive stresses in the interior and tensile stresses on the sample surfaces. These findings demonstrate the potential for developing Invar-based MMCs with enhanced mechanical properties through LPBF. Due to the enhancement in hardness and, thus, wear resistance, the investigated compositions offer applications in parts and tools used in rough and demanding conditions, such as mouthpieces for extrusion or turbine blades in water turbines.
Die Landtagswahlen in Brandenburg, Sachsen und Thüringen 2024: Neue Formen des Regierens als Antwort auf die Wahlergebnisse
Authors: Völkl Kerstin 
Published: December 2024

ZusammenfassungIm September 2024 fanden in drei ostdeutschen Bundesländern Landtagswahlen statt. Am 1. September 2024 waren die Bürgerinnen und Bürger in Sachsen und Thüringen aufgerufen, ein neues Landesparlament zu wählen. Drei Wochen später, am 22. September 2024, folgte die Landtagswahl in Brandenburg. Nach diesen Wahlen stehen die Parteien vor der Herausforderung, Koalitionen zu bilden, die stabile Regierungen gewährleisten, ohne ihre inhaltlichen Grundpositionen und Beschlüsse zur Zusammenarbeit mit bestimmten Parteien aufgeben zu müssen. Angesichts der Wahlergebnisse stellt sich die Frage, ob alternative Regierungsmodelle, wie eine Minderheitsregierung, eine mögliche Lösung für eines, zwei oder sogar alle drei der Bundesländer bieten könnten.
Policies, politics or participation? Exploring the political understanding of non-voters in the 2022 North Rhine-Westphalian election
Authors: Rakers Julia 
Published: December 2024

AbstractAbstention has long been treated as a residual category in electoral research. However, a research interest in understanding non-voters emerged in the 1990s following declines in turnout in the 1980s. Existing research on non-voters largely focusses on socio-economic attributes (e.g. education), demographic characteristics (e.g. age) and political attitudes (e.g. political apathy) to explain abstention. This study explores how non-voters understand politics and the political process. It draws inspiration from studies of political culture, such as those by Fuchs (2002) and Rohe (1984), and uses data from eight focus group discussions conducted with 52 total participants who reported not voting during the 2022 North Rhine-Westphalian state elections. The analysis reveals that participants focus primarily on the output dimension of the political process and that input dimensions are secondary. At the same time, participants report a lack of representation by political decision-makers and display limited political knowledge.
Iron-carbonate concretions with inverse magnetic fabrics; a record of environmental changes in the middle Eocene marine marls of the Southern Pyrenees?
Authors: Oliva-Urcia B. , Larrasoaña J. C. , Travé A. , Garcés M. , Sierra-Campos P. , Pueyo E. L. , Calvín P. 
Published: December 2024

AbstractThis paper deals with the detailed analyses of magnetic fabrics, accompanied by stable isotopic composition and microscopic observations, in centimetric and metric scale authigenic carbonate concretions embedded in the Eocene flysch deposits of the Southwestern Pyrenees. Sampling was focused in the carbonate concretions, (in both metric and centimetric scale), in the marls lateral and nearby to the concretions and in the marls located several meters away from the concretions. The inverse magnetic fabrics (kmax axes cluster perpendicular to bedding plane) detected in these concretions constitute a fast methodology to uncover the presence of iron-carbonate minerals and the paleoenvironmental significance of their authigenic origin. The subfabric analyses indicate that magnetite is present in all four types of samples with normal magnetic fabric (kmin axes perpendicular to bedding). Paramagnetic fabric (low temperature anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility when magnetic susceptibility increases ~ 3.8 times the one at room temperature) overlaps the room temperature magnetic fabric. The microscope observations reveal that iron-enriched dolomite is the main carrier of the inverse fabric in the carbonate concretions at room temperature. The stable isotopic composition indicates minor differences between the Eocene marls and the carbonate concretions and, when compared with previous data, they suggest a marine pore water origin due to bacterial activity during burial. We relate the early diagenetic growth of the concretions to an enhancement in bacterial activity driven by the increased terrigenous and terrestrial organic matter supply during the Middle Eocene Climate Optimum (MECO), a period of global warming.
Drill and Blast in Gypsum Quarries: Optimization of Technical, Economic, and Safety Aspects in “Monte Tondo” Mid-mountain Case Study
Authors: Casertano Daniele , Tinti Francesco , Kasmaeeyazdi Sara , Cellini Vanessa , Bruno Roberto 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Drilling and blasting operations are one of the common deals in open pit mining. Recently, mathematical rigorous patterns are on attention and digitalization and optimization of mining operations are highly suggested. In this work, drilling and blasting operations are modeled and various scenarios are simulated. The usual result of numerical simulations is the fragmentation curve caused by blasting. It is defined as a function of the blasting geometric pattern, the explosives’ type and quantity, and the rock-mechanics characteristics. The aim of this work is to improve the blasting efficiency in quarrying, through proper understanding of the fracture mechanisms and optimization of blasting alternatives. The analysis was developed over the Monte Tondo gypsum quarry, owned by Saint-Gobain (joint-stock company in Italy). The case study was modeled by O-Pitsurface®. After model calibration using the in situ quarry data, several optimization hypotheses were developed, starting from the original blasting scheme. Two fragmentation thresholds were applied. First, the minimum dimension of fragmentation to avoid additional breaking, and secondly, the limit of fragmentation dimension for the crushing feed. For each hypothesis, the appropriate parameters were defined. The optimized best hypothesis was finally selected, based on time saving of 145 h/year of work related to drilling and breaking; economic saving of €24,150/year, due to the blastholes numbers’ reduction; and finally, improvement of safety conditions by 12%, thanks to lower dimension of fragments which leads to an easier and safer management.
Impact of Eccentric Exercises on Soccer Players’ External Load, Muscle Soreness and Physical Performance: A Comparative Study of Pre and Post-Training Routines
Authors: Abade Eduardo , Gonçalves Bruno , Figueira Bruno , Santos Sara , Coutinho Diogo 
Published: December 2024

AbstractThis study examined the impact of integrating eccentric bodyweight exercises (Nordic Hamstring and Single Leg Deadlift) into soccer training, before and after training sessions, on players’ well-being, external load and physical performance over two successive training sessions. Twenty-one male trained players (23.6 ± 3.7 years, playing experience of 13.3 ± 4.01 years) participated in the study. The study spanned two days of the microcycle (MD-4 and MD-3) over four consecutive weeks, during which the players were subjected to two conditions: eccentric training before or after the MD-4 training (pre-strength and post-strength, respectively). The players’ wellness, external load and physical performance (CMJ, 10 m and 30 m-sprint) were assessed in all training sessions. In pre-strength condition, players exhibited a decrease in the CMJ following the eccentric intervention (P = 0.02). For the 30 m-sprint, a decline in performance was noted after the soccer training compared to the moments immediately before (P = 0.04) and after the eccentric intervention (P = 0.002). In the post-strength condition, players reported increased muscle soreness in the following day (MD-3, P = 0.03). Additionally, a reduced number of high-intensity accelerations were observed on MD-3 when the eccentric training was performed after MD-4 (P = 0.04). The study reveals that jumping and sprinting performance may decrease immediately after eccentric routines. However, while jumping performance may recover after the training, sprinting remains affected. Conversely, conducting eccentric routines after training may influence players’ muscle soreness and physical performance on the following day. This study offers valuable insights for optimizing soccer training schedules that incorporate eccentric routines either before or after regular training sessions.
Hydrogels in wearable neural interfaces
Authors: Yao Mengmeng , Hsieh Ju-Chun , Tang Kai Wing Kevin , Wang Huiliang 
Published: December 2024

AbstractThe integration of wearable neural interfaces (WNIs) with the human nervous system has marked a significant progression, enabling progress in medical treatments and technology integration. Hydrogels, distinguished by their high-water content, low interfacial impedance, conductivity, adhesion, and mechanical compliance, effectively address the rigidity and biocompatibility issues common in traditional materials. This review highlights their important parameters—biocompatibility, interfacial impedance, conductivity, and adhesiveness—that are integral to their function in WNIs. The applications of hydrogels in wearable neural recording and neurostimulation are discussed in detail. Finally, the opportunities and challenges faced by hydrogels for WNIs are summarized and prospected. This review aims to offer a thorough examination of hydrogel technology’s present landscape and to encourage continued exploration and innovation. As developments progress, hydrogels are poised to revolutionize wearable neural interfaces, offering significant enhancements in healthcare and technological applications.
Graphical Abstract