bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Development and Evaluation of code symm—A Tool to Facilitate Conceptual Design Synthesis of Multistate Mechanical Devices
Authors: Majumder Anubhab , Chakrabarti Amaresh 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
A multistate mechanical device (MSMD) can achieve different functions at different operating states by changing its topological structure and the interaction among its elements. To facilitate conceptual design synthesis of MSMDs, this article reports the development of a prescriptive model based on past empirical studies, implementing it into a web-based software tool, and evaluating its usefulness through design experiments. The objectives include elaborating on an MSMD synthesis task representation scheme, proposing a method for storing and retrieving kinematic building blocks to support initial solution proposals, and introducing modification rules for refining semiworking initial solutions. The prescriptive model guides designers step by step, facilitating the search through a database of building blocks and modification rules. The resulting web-based tool automates this process and allows users to contribute to the database. An MSMD synthesis task example is provided to demonstrate the execution of the prescriptive synthesis process. Finally, an initial evaluation of the tool's usefulness is carried out with the help of design experiments involving external designers. The results obtained from the evaluation study are reported.
Long term exposure to road traffic noise and air pollution and risk of infertility in men and women: nationwide Danish cohort study
Authors: Sørensen Mette , Poulsen Aslak Harbo , Nøhr Bugge , Khan Jibran , Ketzel Matthias , Brandt Jørgen , Raaschou-Nielsen Ole , Jensen Allan 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Objective

To investigate associations between long term residential exposure to road traffic noise and particulate matter with a diameter <2.5 µm (PM
2.5
) and infertility in men and women.

Design
Nationwide prospective cohort study.

Setting
Denmark.

Participants
526 056 men and 377 850 women aged 30-45 years, with fewer than two children, cohabiting or married, and residing in Denmark between 2000 and 2017.

Main outcome measure
Incident infertility in men and women during follow-up in the Danish National Patient Register.

Results

Infertility was diagnosed in 16 172 men and 22 672 women during a mean follow-up of 4.3 years and 4.2 years, respectively. Mean exposure to PM
2.5
over five years was strongly associated with risk of infertility in men, with hazard ratios of 1.24 (95% confidence interval 1.18 to 1.30) among men aged 30-36.9 years and 1.24 (1.15 to 1.33) among men aged 37-45 years for each interquartile (2.9 µg/m
3
) higher PM
2.5
after adjustment for sociodemographic variables and road traffic noise. PM
2.5
was not associated with infertility in women. Road traffic noise (Lden, most exposed facade of residence) was associated with a higher risk of infertility among women aged 35-45 years, with a hazard ratio of 1.14 (1.10 to 1.18) for each interquartile (10.2 dB) higher five year mean exposure. Noise was not associated with infertility among younger women (30-34.9 years). In men, road traffic noise was associated with higher risk of infertility in the 37-45 age group (1.06, 1.02 to 1.11), but not among those aged 30-36.9 years (0.93, 0.91 to 0.96).

Conclusions

PM
2.5
was associated with a higher risk of an infertility diagnosis in men, whereas road traffic noise was associated with a higher risk of an infertility diagnosis in women older than 35 years, and potentially in men older than 37 years. If these results are confirmed in future studies, higher fertility could be added to the list of health benefits from regulating noise and air pollution.
Evaluation of a digital therapy programme for the treatment of primary arterial hypertension: eXPLORE – study protocol for a fully decentralised randomised controlled feasibility study
Authors: Schlichtiger Jenny , Strüven Anna , Massberg Steffen , von Degenfeld Georges , Leber Alexander , Weyh Paul , Meyer Julia , Brunner Stefan , Stremmel Christopher 
Published: September 2024

IntroductionHypertension is a major cause of premature death worldwide as it is an important risk factor for coronary artery disease, myocardial infarction, heart failure and stroke. Although an estimated 1.3 billion adults suffer from hypertension, less than half of them are diagnosed correctly and therefore receive sufficient treatment. Furthermore, only one fifth of those treated reach the therapy target of normotension. This significant deficit underlines the need for new therapy concepts to improve long-term health outcomes. Several studies have shown positive effects of digital health programmes in the disease management of ambulatory, long-term hypertension treatment. More research is needed to explore the abilities of digital health programmes as an innovative pathway in ambulatory healthcare.The eXPLORE study aims to evaluate the feasibility of a clinical trial on the impact of a supplementary digital therapy programme for the treatment of primary arterial hypertension.Methods and analysesThe eXPLORE study collects data in the setting of a prospective randomised controlled trial to evaluate methodological feasibility for larger-scaled follow-up research. The study compares a digital therapy programme using a smartphone application that is based on functions and algorithms creating tasks and recommendations based on individual health data to standard care for the treatment of primary arterial hypertension. The study period is 180 days, with a 90-day in-life phase followed by a 90-day follow-up phase. Baseline and follow-up data (3 months, 6 months follow-up) of all participants included is collected via questionnaire surveys as well as self-administered blood pressure monitoring. Patient inclusion, initial data acquisition and follow-up were carried out in an innovative remote setting. The study was initiated in November 2022 and is currently ongoing. Study outcome measures are changes in mean blood pressure, health literacy and self-sufficient health behaviour.Ethics and disseminationThe eXPLORE study is carried out in accordance with all applicable legal regulations. Cost-effectiveness is assured by continuous evaluation and documentation over the course of the study. All health-relevant data from the eXPLORE study will be provided for analyses and publication to the investigators of LMU Hospital. The study was approved by the local ethics committee of LMU Munich (project nr.: 22–0115).Trial registrationNCT05580068. Protocol Version: 1.5, 28.08.2023.
Experiences and actions of part-time firefighters’ family members: a critical incident study
Authors: Lantz Emelie , Nilsson Bengt , Elmqvist Carina , Fridlund Bengt , Svensson Anders 
Published: September 2024

ObjectivesThe purpose of this study was to describe the experiences and actions of part-time firefighters’ family members in rural areas in Sweden.DesignThe study had an inductive descriptive design and used the critical incident technique.SettingRural areas, primarily served by a part-time fire station, across Sweden.ParticipantsThe study included 25 participants (21 females and 4 males) with experiences of being a family member of a part-time firefighter. Family members who themselves served as firefighters were excluded.ResultsBeing a part-time firefighter’s family member was described into three main areas of experiences: ‘affecting everyday life’, ‘dealing with uncertainty’ and ‘being in this together’. Actions taken were divided into two main areas: ‘pursuing adaptations’ and ‘alleviating difficulties’.ConclusionsFamily members of part-time firefighters faced increased responsibility at home, managing personal inconvenience and frustration. They offered emotional support for the firefighter, however, expressing a need for guidance on handling firefighters’ emotions and mental health after call-outs. Despite their crucial role, they often felt unrecognised by the fire and rescue service. Nonetheless, they took pride in their firefighter’s contribution to the community and noted positive impacts on the family.
Evaluating the impact of a standardised intervention for announcing decisions of withholding and withdrawing life-sustaining treatments on the stress of relatives in emergency departments (DISCUSS): protocol for a stepped-wedge randomised controlled trial
Authors: Termoz Anne , Subtil Fabien , Drouin Pauline , Marchal Mathilde , Verroul Manon , Langlois Carole , Bravant Estelle , Jacquin Laurent , Clément Bénédicte , Viglino Damien , Roux-Boniface Daniel , Verbois Frédéric , Demarquet Marine , Dubucs Xavier , Douillet Delphine , Tazarourte Karim , Schott-Pethelaz Anne-Marie , Haesebaert Julie , Douplat Marion 
Published: September 2024

IntroductionThe decisions of withholding or withdrawing life-sustaining treatments are difficult to make in the context of emergency departments (EDs) because most patients are unable to communicate. Relatives are thus asked to participate in the decision‐making process, although they are unprepared to face such situations. We therefore aimed to develop a standardised intervention for announcing decisions of withholding or withdrawing life-sustaining treatments in EDs and assess the efficacy of the intervention on the stress of relatives.Methods and analysisThe DISCUSS trial is a multicentre stepped-wedge cluster randomised study and will be conducted at nine EDs in France. A standardised intervention based on human simulation will be codesigned with partner families and implemented at three levels: the relatives, the healthcare professionals (HCP) and the EDs. The intervention will be compared with a control based on treatment as usual. A total of 538 families are planned to be included: 269 in the intervention group and 269 in the control group. The primary endpoint will be the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) at 90 days. The secondary endpoints will be symptoms of PTSD at 7 and 30 days, diagnosis of PTSD at 90 days and anxiety and depression scores at 7, 30 and 90 days. Satisfaction regarding the training, the assertiveness in communication and real-life stress of HCPs will be measured at 90 days.Ethics and disseminationThis study was approved by the ethics committee Est III from Nancy and the French national data protection authority. All relatives and HCPs will be informed regarding the study objectives and data confidentiality. Written informed consent will be obtained from participants, as required by French law for this study type. The results from this study will be disseminated at conferences and in a peer-reviewed journal.Trial registration numberNCT06071078.
Enhanced prediction of atrial fibrillation risk using proteomic markers: a comparative analysis with clinical and polygenic risk scores
Authors: Liu Mengyi , Zhang Yuanyuan , Ye Ziliang , He Panpan , Zhou Chun , Yang Sisi , Zhang Yanjun , Gan Xiaoqin , Qin Xianhui 
Published: September 2024

BackgroundProteomic biomarkers have shown promise in predicting various cardiovascular conditions, but their utility in assessing the risk of atrial fibrillation (AF) remains unclear. This study aimed to develop and validate a protein-based risk score for predicting incident AF and to compare its predictive performance with traditional clinical risk factors and polygenic risk scores in a large cohort from the UK Biobank.MethodsWe analysed data from 36 129 white British individuals without prior AF, assessing 2923 plasma proteins using the Olink Explore 3072 assay. The cohort was divided into a training set (70%) and a test set (30%) to develop and validate a protein risk score for AF. We compared the predictive performance of this score with the HARMS2-AF risk model and a polygenic risk score.ResultsOver an average follow-up of 11.8 years, 2450 incident AF cases were identified. A 47-protein risk score was developed, with N-terminal prohormone of brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) being the most significant predictor. In the test set, the protein risk score (per SD increment, HR 1.94; 95% CI 1.83 to 2.05) and NT-proBNP alone (HR 1.80; 95% CI 1.70 to 1.91) demonstrated superior predictive performance (C-statistic: 0.802 and 0.785, respectively) compared with HARMS2-AF and polygenic risk scores (C-statistic: 0.751 and 0.748, respectively).ConclusionsA protein-based risk score, particularly incorporating NT-proBNP, offers superior predictive value for AF risk over traditional clinical and polygenic risk scores, highlighting the potential for proteomic data in AF risk stratification.
Physical activity and prognosis and factors associated with low physical activity in patients with advanced or recurrent lung cancer: a retrospective, observational study
Authors: Fukushima Takuya , Katsushima Utae , Ogushi Naoya , Hase Kimitaka , Nakano Jiro 
Published: September 2024

ObjectivesTo investigate the relationship between physical activity and prognosis, and the significant factors associated with physical activity in patients with advanced or recurrent lung cancer.MethodsThis retrospective, observational study enrolled 50 outpatients with lung cancer who received chemotherapy. Patients were evaluated for physical function, physical activity (International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form), and nutritional status (Mini Nutritional Assessment-Short Form [MNA-SF]). The relationship between physical activity and prognosis was examined using the log-rank test and Cox proportional hazards model. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to examine factors associated with low physical activity. A receiver operating characteristic curve was used to calculate the MNA-SF cut-off value for low physical activity.ResultsLow physical activity was significantly associated with survival (HR, 4.35; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.16–16.27; p=0.029). The MNA-SF was a significant factor associated with low physical activity (OR, 0.71; 95% CI, 0.52 to 0.98; p=0.038). The MNA-SF cut-off value for low physical activity was 9.5 points.ConclusionsLow physical activity may be a prognostic factor in lung cancer, with nutritional status associated with low physical activity. Regular assessments using the MNA-SF cut-off and physical activity interventions considering nutrition are needed in clinical practice.
THSR wave function and non-localized clustering
Authors: Horiuchi Hisashi , Blaschke David 
Published: September 2024

AbstractThe main ideas to construct the THSR wave function are given, and the relation to other approaches such as the Brink-type cluster wave function approach is shown. The effect of the Pauli-forbidden states on the inter-cluster potential is described by the orthogonality condition model. The duality of the cluster structure and shell-model structure for nuclei in the ground state and in excited states is discussed. Future work on $$n \alpha $$

n
α

condensate states in more complex nuclei and the formation of cluster structures in excited nuclei is outlined.
MURCA driven bulk viscosity in neutrino trapped baryonic matter
Authors: Sarkar Sreemoyee , Nandi Rana 
Published: September 2024

AbstractWe examine bulk viscosity, taking into account trapped neutrinos in baryonic matter, in the context of binary neutron star mergers. Following the merging event, the binary star can yield a remnant compact object with densities up to 5 nuclear saturation density and temperature up to 50 MeV resulting in the retention of neutrinos. We employ two relativistic mean field models, NL3 and DDME2, to describe the neutrino-trapped baryonic matter. The dissipation coefficient is determined by evaluating the Modified URCA interaction rate in the dense baryonic medium, and accounting for perturbations caused by density oscillations. We observe the resonant behavior of bulk viscosity as it varies with the temperature of the medium. The bulk viscosity peak remains within the temperature range of $$\sim 13$$

∼
13

–50 MeV, depending upon the underlying equation of states and lepton fractions. This temperature range corresponds to the relevant domain of binary neutron star mergers. We also note that in presence of neutrinos in the medium the bulk viscosity peak shifts towards higher temperature and the peak value of bulk viscosity also changes. The time scale of viscous dissipation is dictated by the beta-off-equilibrium susceptibilities derived from the nuclear equation of state. The resulting viscous decay time scale ranges from 32–100 ms, which aligns with the order of magnitude of the post-merger object’s survival time in some specific scenarios.
Abstract B069: ACCESS: Advancing childhood cancer experience, science and survivorship in Canada
Authors: Grover Stephanie A. , Williams Christine J. , Co-Dyre Adrienne , Malkin David , Whitlock James A. , ACCESS consortium on behalf of the 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
In Canada, roughly 1,500 children and adolescents are diagnosed with cancer each year. Advocacy for enhanced childhood cancer research and care in Canada by patients, families and the academic community led to a $23M investment through the Canadian Institutes of Health Research to establish a national pediatric cancer consortium (termed ‘ACCESS’). ACCESS’ mission is to ensure every child with cancer in Canada has access to the latest scientific advances, diagnostic tools, therapies, and supportive care leading to better outcomes and quality of life. ACCESS is a unique collective of scientists, healthcare providers, industry leaders, partner organizations, advocates, patients, and their families who are conducting research, changing policy, and developing new tools to ensure better lives for children who experience cancer in Canada and for their loved ones.
The goal is to implement transformative change in the delivery of fair, fast, effective, and safe cancer care for all children. ACCESS is driven and led by people with lived experience of pediatric cancer and framed by the patient journey. In its first year, ACCESS has unified a national community. It has: connected a community of more than 700 people and stimulated a culture of open communication in which diverse viewpoints, including those of people with lived experience of cancer, are sought and valued; built productive and effective partnerships to connect and leverage the work of organizations working to improve childhood cancer; initiated 20 new innovative pan-Canadian research studies that impact all aspects of the patient journey, including new Canadian-led clinical trials; developed an educational hub for all ACCESS members, and produced accessible communications materials such as webinars, a newsletter and a comprehensive website; developed national best practice standards and tools for research and care; started to address the complex policy, regulatory and practical barriers that prevent equitable access to cancer diagnosis and treatment for all children in Canada.Future priorities include development of a national data system for pediatric cancer, modernizing pediatric clinical trials to reduce barriers to participation in Canada, and the development of a national strategy for pediatric cancer.
Citation Format: Stephanie A. Grover, Christine J. Williams, Adrienne Co-Dyre, David Malkin, James A. Whitlock, on behalf of the ACCESS consortium. ACCESS: Advancing childhood cancer experience, science and survivorship in Canada [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference in Cancer Research: Advances in Pediatric Cancer Research; 2024 Sep 5-8; Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(17 Suppl):Abstract nr B069.
Exploring insect meals as novel sources of vitamin D: evaluation of vitamin D precursors, biofortification by UV-B exposure, and in vivo efficacy
Authors: Grundmann S.M. , Jerathe S.D. , Pfeiffer J. , Most E. , Klüber P. , Rühl M. , Eder K. 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Vitamin D deficiency is a global problem due to limited dietary sources, necessitating the exploration of alternative sources. The objective of this study was to investigate the suitability of UV-B-exposed insect meals as a source of vitamin D. First, two insect meals from Hermetia illucens and Tenebrio molitor larvae were analysed for their concentrations of vitamin D2, D3 and their precursors ergosterol and 7-dehydrocholesterol (7-DHC). Second, the insect meals were exposed to UV-B light to stimulate the synthesis of vitamin D from the precursors. Finally, to determine the efficacy of insect meal-derived vitamin D in contributing to an adequate vitamin D status, UV-B-exposed insect meals were fed to rats for 4 weeks in comparison to pure vitamin D2 or D3. H. illucens meal had a high concentration of ergosterol, whereas T. molitor meal had a high concentration of 7-DHC. H. illucens meal contained vitamin D3 (0.302 μg/g), whereas in T. molitor neither vitamin D2 nor D3 was detectable. UV-B exposure resulted in a significant enrichment of vitamin D2 in H. illucens meal and of vitamin D3 in T. molitor meal, depending on spreading density and the exposure time. Concentrations of up to 13.8 μg vitamin D2 per g and 34.4 μg vitamin D3 per g in H. illucens and T. molitor meal, respectively, were achieved under optimum exposure conditions. The rat study showed that feeding UV-B-exposed insect meals was successful in increasing serum 25(OH)D concentrations. Serum 25(OH)D concentrations were even higher in rats fed UV-B-exposed insect meals than in rats fed pure vitamin D2 or D3. In conclusion, meals from H. illucens or T. molitor contain high amounts of vitamin D precursors which can be converted to vitamin D by UV-B exposure. Thus, UV-B-exposed insect meals could be considered as novel sources of vitamin D for human and animal nutrition.
More In-Depth Analysis Needed
Authors: van den Brink Gijsbert 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
In his Understanding the Christianity-Evolution Relationship, Michael Ruse puts old wine in new skins. In an original and illuminating way, he approaches his topic from the perspective of the age-old divide between mechanistic and organicist ways of thinking. Yet, this does not bring him to new conclusions as compared to his earlier work on the topic. In response, I argue that a more rigorous conceptual and doctrinal analysis is needed to sort out whether Darwinian evolution makes God redundant or whether it actually accords more with theism than with naturalism.
Estimating Fiscal Multipliers for States in India
Authors: Koley Madhurima , Mandal Kumarjit 
Published: September 2024

We estimate state-level fiscal multipliers for Indian states using a panel data set of 17 non-special and 10 special category states covering the period 2001–02 to 2016–17. The impacts of shocks to states’ own tax revenue, revenue expenditure, capital expenditure and grants from centre on income are measured employing panel vector autogressive technique of estimation. We find the effect of shocks to fiscal variable on income is greater in the long run vis-à-vis the immediate impact. For non-special category states, own tax revenue, capital outlay and grants from centre multiplier are over unity. Thus, capital expenditure expansion or tax cut are both effective to increase output. For special category states, fiscal stimuli based upon tax cuts are more effective than those based upon spending increases. Capital outlay multiplier, however, stands at 0.83. Hence, the study provides a rationale for ring-fencing of capital expenditure target to be most crucial for reviving growth in Indian states. JEL Codes: E62, H71, H72