bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Identifying Socially Optimal Equilibria Using Combinatorial Properties of Nash Equilibria in Bimatrix Games
Authors: Dehghanian Amin , Xie Yujia , Serban Nicoleta 
Published: February 2024

Nash equilibrium is arguably the most fundamental concept in game theory, which is used to analyze and predict the behavior of the players. In many games, there exist multiple equilibria, with different expected payoffs for the players, which in turn raises the question of equilibrium selection. In this paper, we study the [Formula: see text]-hard problem of identifying a socially optimal Nash equilibrium in two-player normal-form games (called bimatrix games), which may be represented by a mixed integer linear program (MILP). We characterize the properties of the equilibria and develop several classes of valid inequalities accordingly. We use these theoretical results to provide a decomposition-based reformulation of the MILP, which we solve by a branch-and-cut algorithm. Our extensive computational experiments demonstrate superiority of our approach over solving the MILP formulation through feeding it into a commercial solver or through the “traditional” Benders’ decomposition. Of note, our proposed approach can find provably optimal solutions for many instances. History: Accepted by Andrea Lodi, Area Editor for Design & Analysis of Algorithms. Funding: This work was supported by the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research [Grant R01DE028283]. The content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of the National Institutes of Health. The funding agreements ensured the authors’ independence in designing the study, interpreting the data, writing, and publishing the report. Supplemental Material: The software that supports the findings of this study is available within the paper and its Supplemental Information ( https://pubsonline.informs.org/doi/suppl/10.1287/ijoc.2022.0072 ) as well as from the IJOC GitHub software repository ( https://github.com/INFORMSJoC/2022.0072 ). The complete IJOC Software and Data Repository is available at https://informsjoc.github.io/ .
Variational Inequalities on Unbounded Domains for Zero-Sum Singular Controller vs. Stopper Games
Authors: Bovo Andrea , De Angelis Tiziano , Issoglio Elena 
Published: February 2024

We study a class of zero-sum games between a singular controller and a stopper over a finite-time horizon. The underlying process is a multidimensional (locally nondegenerate) controlled stochastic differential equation (SDE) evolving in an unbounded domain. We prove that such games admit a value and provide an optimal strategy for the stopper. The value of the game is shown to be the maximal solution in a suitable Sobolev class of a variational inequality of min-max type with an obstacle constraint and a gradient constraint. Although the variational inequality and the game are solved on an unbounded domain, we do not require boundedness of either the coefficients of the controlled SDE or of the cost functions in the game. Funding: A. Bovo was partially supported by the Doctoral Studentship from the University of Leeds.
Martha Nussbaum. the Capability Approach: las emociones éticas y la justica para animales no- humanos
Authors: Goyenechea Elisa 
Published: February 2024

Examinamos el enfoque de las capacidades (CA) de Martha Nussbaum como una teoría de justicia y explicitamos las condiciones de una vida floreciente. La tesis que guía nuestro trabajo es que el alcance cognitivo de la afectividad, un tema caro a Nussbaum, le permitió teorizar allende las éticas prevalecientes centradas en el hombre. Las «emociones éticas» habilitan el desplazamiento del CA y el reconocimiento de derechos en animales no humanos. El asombro, la compasión y la ira proactiva (Tran sition-Anger), fundan una idea rudimentaria de justicia para los animales no humanos basada en el CA.
Clonorchis sinensis on the prognosis of patients with spontaneous rupture of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: An inverse probability of treatment weighting analysis
Authors: Ni Hang-Hang , Lu Zhan , Yang Cheng-Lei , Lv Yu-Ting , Lu Chun-Xiu , Xiang Bang-De 
Published: February 2024

Background
We examined the impact of the Clonorchis sinensis (C. sinensis) infection on the survival outcomes of spontaneous rupture Hepatocellular Carcinoma (srHCC) patients undergoing hepatectomy.

Methods
Between May 2013 and December 2021, 157 consecutive srHCC patients who underwent hepatectomy were divided into an no C. sinensis group (n = 126) and C. sinensis group (n = 31). To adjust for differences in preoperative characteristics an inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) analysis was done, using propensity scores. Overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS) were compared before and after IPTW. Multivariate Cox regression analysis was performed to determine whether the C. sinensis infection was an independent prognostic factor after IPTW.

Results
In original cohort, the no C. sinensis group did not show a survival advantage over the C. sinensis group. After IPTW adjustment, the median OS for the C. sinensis group was 9 months, compared to 29 months for the no C. sinensis group. C. sinensis group have worse OS than no C. sinensis group (p = 0.024), while it did not differ in RFS(p = 0.065). The multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that C. sinensis infection and lower age were associated with worse OS.

Conclusions
The C. sinensis infection has an adverse impact on os in srHCC patients who underwent hepatectomy.
Comparative effectiveness of daptomycin versus vancomycin among patients with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) bloodstream infections: A systematic literature review and meta-analysis
Authors: Adamu Yau , Puig-Asensio Mireia , Dabo Bashir , Schweizer Marin L. 
Published: February 2024

Background
In the treatment of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) bloodstream infections (BSIs), vancomycin stands as the prevalent therapeutic agent. Daptomycin remains an alternative antibiotic to treat MRSA BSIs in cases where vancomycin proves ineffective. However, studies have conflicted on whether daptomycin is more effective than vancomycin among patients with MRSA BSI.

Objective
To compare the effectiveness of daptomycin and vancomycin for the prevention of mortality among adult patients with MRSA BSI.

Methods
Systematic searches of databases were performed, including Embase, PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library. The Newcastle Ottawa Scale (NOS) and Revised Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomized trials (RoB 2) were used to assess the quality of individual observational and randomized control studies, respectively. Pooled odd ratios were calculated using random effects models.

Results
Twenty studies were included based on a priori set inclusion and exclusion criteria. Daptomycin treatment was associated with non-significant lower mortality odds, compared to vancomycin treatment (OR = 0.81; 95% CI, 0.62, 1.06). Sub-analyses based on the time patients were switched from another anti-MRSA treatment to daptomycin demonstrated that switching to daptomycin within 3 or 5 days was significantly associated with 55% and 45% decreased odds of all-cause mortality, respectively. However, switching to daptomycin any time after five days of treatment was not significantly associated with lower odds of mortality. Stratified analysis based on vancomycin minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) revealed that daptomycin treatment among patients infected with MRSA strains with MIC≥1 mg/L was significantly associated with 40% lower odds of mortality compared to vancomycin treatment.

Conclusion
Compared with vancomycin, an early switch from vancomycin to daptomycin was significantly associated with lower odds of mortality. In contrast, switching to daptomycin at any time only showed a trend towards reduced mortality, with a non-significant association. Therefore, the efficacy of early daptomycin use over vancomycin against mortality among MRSA BSIs patients may add evidence to the existing literature in support of switching to daptomycin early over remaining on vancomycin. More randomized and prospective studies are needed to assess this association.
The marital and fertility sentiment orientation of Chinese women and its influencing factors – An analysis based on natural language processing
Authors: He Yiqing , Tom Abdul Wahab Noor Eshah , Muhamad Haslina , Liu Darong 
Published: February 2024

Background
With the evolution of China’s social structure and values, there has been a shift in attitudes towards marriage and fertility, with an increasing number of women holding diverse perspectives on these matters. In order to better comprehend the fundamental reasons behind these attitude changes and to provide a basis for targeted policymaking, this study employs natural language processing techniques to analyze the discourse of Chinese women.

Methods
The study focused on analyzing 3,200 comments from Weibo, concentrating on six prominent topics linked to women’s marriage and fertility. These topics were treated as research cases. The research employed natural language processing techniques, such as sentiment orientation analysis, Word2Vec, and TextRank.

Results
Firstly, the overall sentiment orientation of Chinese women toward marriage and fertility was largely pessimistic. Secondly, the factors contributing to this negative sentiment were categorized into four dimensions: social policies and rights protection, concerns related to parenting, values and beliefs associated with marriage and fertility, and family and societal culture.

Conclusion
Based on these outcomes, the study proposed a range of mechanisms and pathways to enhance women’s sentiment orientation towards marriage and fertility. These mechanisms encompass safeguarding women and children’s rights, promoting parenting education, providing positive guidance on social media, and cultivating a diverse and inclusive social and cultural environment. The objective is to offer precise and comprehensive reference points for the formulation of policies that align more effectively with practical needs.
Successful Treatment of Eosinophilic Enterocolitis in an Adult Patient With Adalimumab
Authors: Fu Yichun , Choi David , Ronen Natali , Dalal Sushila 
Published: February 2024

ABSTRACT
Eosinophilic gastrointestinal diseases are increasing in prevalence, but understanding of their causes and effective treatments remain elusive, especially in adults. We present a case of eosinophilic gastroenteritis and colitis with extraintestinal manifestations that was successfully treated with a tumor necrosis factor α inhibitor, adalimumab.
Knowledge, awareness and decision making of population visiting north indian institute towards dental implant as a treatment modality: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Rani Sapna , Dhawan Pankaj , Kumar Ashish , Kumar Hemant , Tripathi Riya 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Objectives
The knowledge and awareness surrounding dental implants have significantly increased over the years, driven by advancements in technology, improved educational resources, and increased accessibility to dental care. Despite their widespread use, it is essential to assess the level of knowledge and awareness among patients regarding dental implants. The purpose of the present study is to measure the knowledge, awareness and decision making in dental implant therapy in North Indian population.

Settings and design
An analytical closed ended questionnaire based study.

Methods
A cross-sectional well structured questionnaire survey was conducted amongst 300 out patients randomly either by interview or Google form to assess the knowledge and awareness about dental implant as a treatment modality. There were seven questions which were close ended multiple choice type concerning patient knowledge and 10 questions for assessing awareness and decision making towards dental implants. Date was collected and descriptive analysis was done.

Results
43.67 % of population was either well informed or moderately informed about replacement of missing teeth. For replacement of missing tooth, most of them (83 %) had the knowledge of dental implant therapy. Dentist was the main source of information about implants. 90.67 % studied population believed that implants provide better treatment because of increased chewing efficiency of implants as compared to removable partial dentures or fixed partial dentures. 86.67 % patients thought that implantologist is better qualified that general dental surgeon. 94 % patients were keen to know more about implants. There is non-significant difference in knowledge and awareness as well as decision making for males and females (p<0.05).

Conclusion
People have partial knowledge about dental implants and there is need of spreading awareness about implant therapy in the region. Dentist plays a crucial role for dissemination of knowledge. Cost is a constraining factor for this implant therapy to be chosen as a treatment modality.
Numerical simulation study of the effect of nonlinear side blowing on the flow of gas-liquid two-phase flow
Authors: Su XinTao , Wang Shibo , Wang Hua , Xu Jianxin , Xiao Qingtai 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
The hydrodynamic and stirring characteristics of gas-slag-copper matte three-phase in side-blowing melt pool melting were numerically simulated using a combination of the volume of fluid (VOF) model in computational fluid dynamics and the realizable k-ε turbulence model. The study obtained macroscopic flow and gas-liquid two-phase distribution information of the flow field in the melting process. It also examined the effects of isokinetic blowing and nonlinear blowing on the fluid velocity, penetration depth, gas content, and turbulent eddy volume of the flow field, and compared the results. The results indicate that, for the same total gas volume, constant velocity blowing (CVS) inadequately agitates the molten pool, resulting in a large stirring dead zone within the flow field. In contrast, nonlinear blowing enhances the fluid velocity overall. Specifically, sinusoidal variable speed blowing (SWS) and rectangular variable speed blowing (RWS) reduce the stirring dead zone area by 79  and 73.5 %, respectively. This is attributed to the increase in maximum penetration depth and slag phase gas content, as well as the decrease in gas escape during nonlinear blowing. The vortex volume over the total calculated time for the three conditions is enhanced by 6.7  and 1.1 % for SWS and RWS, respectively. Additionally, the turbulent kinetic energy of the fluids is increased by 18.7  and 17 %, respectively.
A Translation of Ernst Troeltsch’s Prädestination I–II, III
Authors: Parker Gregory , Zoutendam Erin Risch 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
This article provides an English translation of Ernst Troeltsch’s 1907 essay titled “Prädestination” in its entirety, accompanied by a concise introduction to Troeltsch’s articulation of the doctrine of predestination and the salient features of the article. Readers can also trace adaptations between the 1907 and 1913 version of “Prädestination” via the footnotes. This translation provides Anglophone readers access to the only essay in which Troeltsch addresses the question of predestination directly. Significantly, predestination provides the foundation to his understanding of that which drives the development of all of history and therefore is crucial to understanding his thought.
A Rapid Method for Measuring the Acid-Soluble Chloride Content of Powdered Concrete Samples
Authors: Weyers RE , Brown M , Al-Qadi IL , Henry M 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
A rapid alternative method has been developed to the standard ASTM and AASHTO test methods for determining the acid-soluble chloride content of concrete. The method uses an acidic solution containing a deforming agent to digest the collected powdered chloride samples. A stabilizing solution is used in place of a temperature correction factor for the direct read of the solution's chloride concentration with a specific ion electrode.
Concrete samples from precontaminated specimens cast in the laboratory and powdered samples collected from concrete bridges in Virginia, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, and Florida were tested in the laboratory. A linear relationship was developed between the rapid and the ASTM standard method which may be used to predict the standard equivalent acid-soluble chloride content from the rapid test results.
The proposed standard rapid test procedure is presented in the Appendix.
Use of Fly Ash in Heat-cured Concrete and the Effect of Post-curing Storage Regimes on Strength, Modulus of Elasticity, and Freezing-thawing Durability
Authors: Gifford PM , Langan BW , Ward MA 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
This study examines the use of ASTM Type C fly ash from two western Canadian sources with a Type III cement and aslump-extending superplasticizer. The heat-cured concrete had a low water-to-cementitious ratio. The fly ash was used to replace cement at 10 and 20% by weight. Effects on strength development, modulus of elasticity, and durability of subsequent storage regimes are presented.
A nonsuperplasticized mixture designed for use in precast pre-stressed concrete providing 31 MPa (4500 psi) release strength after heat curing and 41 MPa (6000 psi) at the age of 28 days of standard moist storage was used as the control mix. The total cement content of the control mix was kept constant while the remaining mixture proportions were adjusted in response to the reduced water requirement as a result of the incorporation of the slump-extending superplasticizer. The properties of the fly ash mixtures are compared with those of the control mix.
The study showed that fly ash when used with a slump-extending superplasticizer can be incorporated at a low-to-moderate level of cement replacement in heat-cured precast prestressed concrete. The fly ash concretes were shown to meet adequate release and 28-day strengths and to possess very high scaling resistance and should provide excellent durability in a freezing and thawing environment.
The compressive strength, modulus of elasticity, and durability of fly ash heat-cured concrete are no more seriously affected by post-heat-curing storage regimes than accepted and proven concrete containing no fly ash.
Use of Dynamic Nondestructive Test Methods to Monitor Concrete Deterioration Due to Alkali-Silica Reaction
Authors: Swamy RN , Wan WMR 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
The use of dynamic nondestructive test methods such as pulse velocity and dynamic modulus to monitor the initiation and progress of concrete deterioration due to alkali-silica reactions (ASR) is described. The tests reported cover a range of parameters: two different types of reactive aggregates; varying environments; concretes without and with mineral admixtures such as fly ash, ground-granulated blast-furnace slag, and silica fume; and concrete beams with and without reinforcement. The results show that both pulse velocity and dynamic modulus are sensitive to material and structural changes arising from ASR and that they can respond reliably to changes prior to first crack, at first crack, and the progress of deterioration with time in concrete both with and without cementitious materials other than portland cement. With engineering judgment, pulse-velocity measurements can be used confidently to assess structural deterioration due to ASR.
Evaluation of Cylinder Size and Capping Method in Compression Strength Testing of Concrete
Authors: Pistilli MF , Willems T 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Sulfur caps were compared with unbonded polymer pads in compressive strength testing of concrete within the strength range 3000 to 18 000 psi (20.7 to 124.2 MPa). A less extensive study, still in progress, compares polymer pads with ground surfaces and lapped surfaces within the range of 13 000 to nearly 20 000 psi (89.7 to 138.0 MPa). Test cylinder size, 6 by 12 in. (152 by 305 mm) and 4 by 8 in. (102 by 203 mm), are included in this study within the strength range of 4000 to 18 000 psi (27.6 to 124.2 MPa). The results show that polymer pads result in significantly lower within-test variability than sulfur caps for strengths above 8000 psi (55.2 MPa). The ratio of 4 by 8 to 6 by 12-in. (102 by 203 to 152 by 305-mm) cylinder strengths ranged from 0.96 to 1.06. The strength differences due to cylinder size do not appear to be of practical significance for strengths within 4000 to 9000 psi (27.6 to 62.1 MPa). Grinding the ends of cylinders with strengths between 12 000 and 20 000 psi (82.8 to 138.0 MPa) shows promise as an improved test procedure for end preparation. Polymer pads appear to produce good test results provided the finished surfaces are smooth, which appears most significant within the range of 13 000 to 20 000 psi (89.7 to 138.0 MPa).
The Special Features of Cement Standards in China
Authors: Sanduo T 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
A large amount of blended cement, special cement, and shaft kiln manufactured cement is produced in China. These cements form the basis for China's cement standards. These standards have many special features and constitute a unique cement standard system. The standard cements are divided into three groups: common cement, special performance cement, and special purpose cement. As common cements, which include ordinary portland cement, portland blast-furnace cement, portland pozzolana cement, and portland composite slag cement, etc., the required and allowable blended materials incorporated in their specifications are somewhat like those in the European cement standard EN V 197, but some kinds of metallurgical slags are allowed into composite portland cement to make good use of industrial wastes, and a series of strength grades (including type R, which have higher early strength criteria) are stipulated for satisfying the various technical level of cement production and the different construction requirements. As to the special performance cement group, there are several series of cements such as portland cement, aluminatc cement, sulfo-aluminate cement, and ferro-aluminate cement, etc. The specifications for these cements are characteristic of their performance requirements: moderate-heat portland cement stipulates the criteria for heat of hydration; rapid-hardening aluminate cement defines criteria for strength within three days; expansive sulfo-aluminate cement requires criteria for rate of expansion; and self-stressing ferro-aluminate cements need criteria for self-stressing values, etc. In addition, oil well cement and masonry cement, etc., belong in the special purpose cement group.
A graphical standards system is presented which includes fundamental standards, product standards, and test method standards.
Owing to the different strength of the test methods, the cement strength value cannot be compared between different countries. The author suggests an international cooperative test program be organized for establishing the interrelation of mortar strength between different testing methods and the ISO method to facilitate international trade and to exchange information.
A Summary of the Results of Laboratory Inspections Conducted by the Cement and Concrete Reference Laboratory
Authors: Kolos RM , Burns PC 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
ASTM test methods are used as the basis for on-site inspections performed by the Cement and Concrete Reference Laboratory (CCRL) in construction material testing laboratories. The equipment and test procedures employed by the laboratory are examined, and deviations from the requirements of the test method are reported. With the aid of a computer program, the results from these inspections are summarized. The computer output includes the percentage of conformance, a description of the deviations, and the number of times each deviation was noted. These summaries are useful to ASTM subcommittees with jurisdiction over the various summarized test methods. A description of the CCRL programs and an explanation of the summaries of results are included.