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• 01GSF6YKQEGE2Q8XTVDSFE7B9B abstract "During the COVID-19 pandemic in Belgium, most COVID-19-related information was communicated to the public through mainstream media such as newspaper outlets, television, and radio. These media had substantial influence over which information was (widely) distributed and how this information was framed, subsequently shaping citizens' interpretations of matters concerning the pandemic. This chapter considers one of the government's endeavors to contain the pandemic: COVID-19 telephone contact tracing. Specifically, we compare the image of such telephone contact tracing generated by the media with the de facto interactional practice. We report on analyses made as part of a 1 year applied conversation analytic and pragmatic study conducted at Ghent University and the University of Antwerp in collaboration with the Flemish Agency of Health and Care. Methodologically, we use thematic content analysis to examine the portrayal of COVID-19 telephone contact tracing in widespread Flemish newspapers and its evolution throughout the pandemic. We then compare this media analysis to our analysis of a corpus of 170 recorded, transcribed, and interactionally analyzed contact tracing calls. Our results demonstrate how the mainstream media's image of contact tracing does not align with the various (interactional) functions of COVID-19 contact tracing calls identified in the study. We argue that this one-sided, distorted image produced by the media may have had considerable consequences for the efficacy of contact tracing, especially because the contact tracing call was a new genre of conversation. It was introduced to the public almost exclusively through mainstream media and, at the same time, its success relied for the most part on citizens' voluntary participation, trust, and willingness to share private information.".
• 01GSF6YKQVB9BQAZBNJ7XWRFR3 abstract "Simple Summary Over the past three decades, sows' litter sizes have been increased to improve productivity, but have also led to increased proportions of (very) low birth weight piglets, and consequently, higher pre-weaning mortality. One possible intervention to counter the increased mortality is supplementing a milk replacer. This study aimed to determine if the performance of low birth weight piglets can be improved by drenching a dense, concentrated milk replacer and whether the frequency of drenching and the severity of the low birth weight played a role. Secondly, this study compared the supplementation of the same milk replacer at two farms with different perinatal management. No effect of drenching a dense milk replacer on the survival or performance of (very) low birth weight piglets was observed, regardless of farm and, apparently, of the applied management. However, mortality rates were lower at the farm with a higher level of perinatal management, suggesting that high-quality care might have more effect on the survival of small piglets than drenching a dense milk replacer. Introducing hyperprolific sows has led to proportionally more (very) low birth weight ((V)LBW) piglets, accompanied by higher mortality. To improve the survival of (V)LBW piglets, drenching a dense milk replacer (DMR) could be applied. A first experiment evaluated the effect of drenching DMR (1 or 3 doses within 24 h after birth) to LBW ((mean litter birth weight - 1*SD) and weighing between 1 kg and 750 g) and VLBW piglets ((mean litter birth weight - 1.5*SD) and weighing less than 750 g). On days 1, 2, 3, 9, and two days post-weaning, body weight, growth, skin lesions, and mortality were monitored. No effect of DMR was observed on any of the parameters. In a second experiment, LBW piglets were supplemented with DMR (similarly to experiment 1) at two farms differing in the level of perinatal care. The same parameters were evaluated, and again none were affected by drenching DMR. Overall survival of the LBW piglets was significantly higher at the farm with high perinatal care. It can be concluded that good perinatal management is more effective in enhancing the survival of LBW piglets than drenching.".
• 01GSF6YKQZET80MFBRN370Y203 abstract "Stories are important tools for recounting and sharing the past. To tell a story one has to put together diverse information about people, places, time periods, and things. We detail here how a machine, through the power of Semantic Web, can compile scattered and diverse materials and information to construct stories. Through the example of the WeChangEd research project on women editors of periodicals in Europe from 1710-1920 we detail how to move from archive, to a structured data model and relational database, to Wikidata, to the use of the Stories Services API to generate multimedia stories related to people, organizations and periodicals.".
• 01GSF6YKRK642A1S9980ARW11R abstract "Green biorefineries aim to sustainably produce chemicals, materials, proteins and energy by processing green biomass, such as grass, into a solid fraction (fibers) and a liquid fraction (green juice) for further refining. Here, we propose to incorporate microalgae cultivation in the green biorefinery concept to obtain a higher protein production from green juice obtained from grass. A mixed culture of Chlorella sorokiniana and Acutodesmus obliquus was cultivated on multiple dilutions and after different pre-treatments of green juice from agricultural grass. After 19 days, 1.01 +/- 0.06 g/L of algal biomass was reached in a 10 % dilution pre-treated by sedi-mentation and pH adjustment to 8. Further treatments to reduce the microbial load in the grass juice did not increase algal productivity. The produced biomass had a 41 % protein content, and its heavy metal content and microbial load complied with safety norms for feed, except for yeast and Enterobacteriaceae. Overall, these findings offer new perspectives for protein production in a green biorefinery.".
• 01GSF6YKS9M7KZ2DM1A7QP7PSH abstract "Geothermal energy is a renewable energy source with large unexploited potential. Medium enthalpy deep geothermal resources are commonly used in Europe to provide heat. Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) studies on such applications are scarce and their majority follows a static approach. We describe a two-step dynamic LCA framework for deep geothermal heating applications to more accurately estimate their environmental perfor-mance. A semi-dynamic approach considers the temporal evolution of the processes and a fully-dynamic approach also applies dynamic impact assessment methods. We investigate a deep geothermal heating plant located in Northern Belgium for which site-specific data are available. Compared to a static LCA, the dynamic methods find a 50-129% higher global warming impact. Analogous differences are found for eleven other im-pacts. Regardless, the global warming impact remains lower than for natural gas heating. Large impact variations are also observed when the average European electricity mix is considered to supply the plant, indicating that LCA studies on pumped geothermal heating plants that neglect the time parameter could be largely mis-estimating the impacts. The dynamic LCA also calculates the impact evolution through time. We find that the continuation of the plant operation after a time period might not lead to considerable impact reduction. Such information is hidden in a static approach and could be used for the optimization of geothermal development strategies. Dynamic methods also facilitate the design of targeted impact mitigation strategies and the com-parison between alternative heating systems. We recommend the application of dynamic LCA on other types of geothermal energy plants and other energy-related applications.".
• 01GSF6YKSDQ3M9T9ZQJH1S54VP abstract "Studying the interaction between the hemibiotrophic bacterium Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato DC3000 and Arabidopsis thaliana has shed light onto the various forms of mechanisms plants use to defend themselves against pathogen attack. While a lot of emphasis has been put on investigating changes in protein expression in infected plants, only little information is available on the effect infection plays on the plants N-glycan composition. To close this gap in knowledge, total N-glycans were enriched from P. syringae DC3000-infected and mock treated Arabidopsis seedlings and analyzed via MALDI-TOF-MS. Additionally, fluorescently labelled N-glycans were quantified via HPLC-FLD. N-glycans from infected plants were overall less processed and displayed increased amounts of oligomannosidic N-glycans. As multiple peaks for certain oligomannosidic glycoforms were detected upon separation via liquid chromatography, a porous graphitic carbon (PGC)-analysis was conducted to separate individual N-glycan isomers. Indeed, multiple different N-glycan isomers with masses of two N-acetylhexosamine residues plus 8, 9 or 10 hexoses were detected in the infected plants which were absent in the mock controls. Treatment with jack bean alpha-mannosidase resulted in incomplete removal of hexoses from these N-glycans, indicating the presence of glucose residues. This hints at the accumulation of misfolded glycoproteins in the infected plants, likely because of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. In addition, poly-hexose structures susceptible to alpha-amylase treatment were found in the DC3000-infected plants, indicating alterations in starch metabolism due to the infection process.".
• 01GSF6YKSR3EDBMX0WZ3JKPN12 abstract "Plant suspension cells were treated with recombinant OsRIP1, a type 1 ribosome-inactivating protein (RIP) from rice (Oryza sativa L.). OsRIP1 triggered cell death in tobacco BY-2 cells but not in Arabidopsis PSB-D cells. Phenotypic changes in BY-2 cells exposed to OsRIP1, included loss of growth capacity, loss of integrity of the plasma membrane and vacuolar collapse. These effects were also accompanied by RNA degradation and DNA fragmentation. Targeting of exogenous OsRIP1 to plant vacuoles and OsRIP1-induced accumulation of transcripts for vacuolar processing enzymes (VPEs) indicated that OsRIP1 provoked plant cell death in tobacco BY-2 cells through the activation of VPEs and subsequent vacuolar disruption, which was probably independent of its N-glycosylase activity on cytosolic ribosomes. Necrosis with limited production of H2O2 was observed after infiltration of high concentrations of OsRIP1 in epidermal cells of Nicotiana tabacum cv. Samsun NN plants. Our study provides the first evidence that OsRIP1 exerts differential effects on the growth of PSB-D and BY-2 cells. The vacuole-dependent cell death pathway is associated with the lethal effect of the exogenously applied OsRIP1 on BY-2 cells.".
• 01GSF6YKSZ2BP35RH3A3VGM0NY abstract "Urtica dioica agglutinin (UDA) is a carbohydrate-binding small monomeric protein isolated from stinging nettle rhizomes. It inhibits replication of a broad range of viruses, including coronaviruses, in multiple cell types, with appealing selectivity. In this work, we investigated the potential of UDA as a broad-spectrum antiviral agent against SARS-CoV-2. UDA potently blocks transduction of pseudotyped SARS-CoV-2 in A549.ACE2(+)-TMPRSS2 cells, with IC50 values ranging from 0.32 to 1.22 mu M. Furthermore, UDA prevents viral replication of the early Wuhan-Hu-1 strain in Vero E6 cells (IC50 = 225 nM), but also the replication of SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern, including Alpha, Beta and Gamma (IC50 ranging from 115 to 171 nM). In addition, UDA exerts antiviral activity against the latest circulating Delta and Omicron variant in U87.ACE2(+) cells (IC50 values are 1.6 and 0.9 mu M, respectively). Importantly, when tested in Air-Liquid Interface (ALI) primary lung epithelial cell cultures, UDA preserves antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2 (20A.EU2 variant) in the nanomolar range. Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) studies demonstrated a concentration-dependent binding of UDA to the viral spike protein of SARS-CoV-2, suggesting interference of UDA with cell attachment or subsequent virus entry. Moreover, in additional mechanistic studies with cell-cell fusion assays, UDA inhibited SARS-CoV-2 spike protein-mediated membrane fusion. Finally, pseudotyped SARS-CoV-2 mutants with N-glycosylation deletions in the S2 subunit of the spike protein remained sensitive to the antiviral activity of UDA. In conclusion, our data establish UDA as a potent fusion inhibitor for the current variants of SARS-CoV-2.".
• 01GSF6YKT39EPEWVEYYGM81VE3 abstract "The Sea Scheldt estuary has been suggested to be a significant pathway for transfer of plastic debris to the North Sea. We have studied 12,801 plastic items that were collected in the Sea Scheldt estuary (Belgium) during 3 sampling cam-paigns (in spring, summer, and autumn) using a technique called anchor netting. The investigation results indicated that the abundance of plastic debris in the Scheldt River was on average 1.6 x 10-3 items per m3 with an average weight of 0.38 x 10-3 g per m3. Foils were the most abundant form, accounting for > 88 % of the samples, followed by fragments for 11 % of the samples and filaments, making up for < 1 % of the plastic debris. FTIR spectroscopy of 7 % of the total number of plastic debris items collected in the Sea Scheldt estuary (n = 883) revealed that polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), and polystyrene (PS) originating from disposable packaging materials were the most abun-dant types of polymers. A limited number of plastic debris items (n = 100) were selected for non-destructive screening of their mineral element composition using micro-X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (mu XRF). The corresponding results revealed that S, Ca, Si, P, Al, and Fe were the predominant mineral elements. These elements originate from flame re-tardants, mineral fillers, and commonly used catalysts for plastic production. Finally, machine learning algorithms were deployed to test a new concept for forensic identification of the different plastic entities based on the most impor-tant elements present using a limited subset of PP (n = 36) and PE (n = 35) plastic entities.".
• 01GSF6YKT7MW3SVHBT0PDHJ9Y2 abstract "Nucleotide sugar 4,6-dehydratases belong to the Short-chain Dehydrogenase/Reductase (SDR) superfamily and catalyze the conversion of an NDP-hexose to an NDP-4-keto-6-deoxy hexose, a key step in the biosynthesis of a plethora of deoxy and amino sugars. Here, we present a colorimetric assay for the detection of their reaction products (NDP-4-keto-6-deoxy hexoses) using concentrated sulfuric acid and an ethanolic resorcinol solution. Under these conditions, the keto-function of the dehydratase product reacts specifically with resorcinol to form an orange-red or pink complex for NDP-glucose/GDP-mannose and UDP-N-acetylglucosamine, respectively, with an absorption maximum at 510 nm. The presented assay allows reliable product detection at low concentrations and can be applied in microtiter plates. It thus allows the determination of kinetic enzyme parameters like the optimal temperature, pH, Vmax, KM and kcat, as well as the miniaturization for screening purposes with crude cell extracts. As such, this detection assay opens new possibilities for the characterization and screening of these dehydratases in 96-well plates for different research goals.".
• 01GSF6YKTNE26CBQYW5PMM4T5B abstract "Coherence relations are expressed differently across languages, often leading to language learners misusing discourse connectives. We argue that the ability to detect these errors crucially depends on the coherence relation under scrutiny, as errors may remain unnoticed when the relation is clause-internal and marked with a highly optional connective. We focus, therefore, on specifications, a relation that German-speaking learners sometimes struggle to correctly indicate when writing in French. We assessed whether non-native readers detect this error and show preferences for either explicit or implicit marking of specifications. Findings show that non-native speakers were generally able to detect the error in a sentence-evaluation task but did not react to it in a self-paced-reading task, contrary to native speakers. They also judged implicit specifications as more correct than explicitly marked specifications. We conclude that non-native speakers do not always benefit from connectives during text processing, especially when they are highly optional.".
• 01GSF6YKTRSJBSK41X7ZA2Z1GT abstract "Regulation 2019/1111 tries to tackle the new challenges arising from societal changes and legal developments in international child abduction. The result is a sophisticated set of rules centred on the child and aimed at enhancing their protection. The Regulation provides for the hearing of the child and for speedy and efficient proceedings. In it the EU acknowledges its role in the protection of human and children's rights and sets goals towards deescalating family conflicts. The new EU child abduction regime is at the same time more flexible than its predecessor allowing consideration of the circumstances characterising each single case in the different stages of the child abduction procedure.".
• 01GSF6YKV0MX5XQ29NDQ8XTNN9 abstract "Background This article is by a group of trans and nonbinary researchers and experts in the field of trans health who have conducted an analysis of trans health research needs. Aims To highlight topics that need further research and to outline key considerations for those conducting research in our field. Methods The first author conducted semi-structured interviews with all coauthors, and these were used to create a first draft of this manuscript. This draft was circulated to all authors, with edits made until consensus was reached among the authors. Results More comprehensive long-term research that centers trans people's experiences is needed on the risks and benefits of gender affirming hormones and surgeries. The trans health research field also needs to have a broader focus beyond medical transition or gender affirmation, including general health and routine healthcare; trans people's lives without, before, and after medical gender affirmation; and sexuality, fertility, and reproductive healthcare needs. More research is also needed on social determinants of health, including ways to make healthcare settings and other environments safer and more supportive; social and legal gender recognition; the needs of trans people who are most marginalized; and the ways in which healing happens within trans communities. The second part of this article highlights key considerations for researchers, the foremost being acknowledging trans community expertise and centering trans community members' input into research design and interpretation of findings, in advisory and/or researcher roles. Ethical considerations include maximizing benefits and minimizing harms (beneficence) and transparency and accountability to trans communities. Finally, we note the importance of conferences, grant funding, working with students, and multidisciplinary teams. Discussion This article outlines topics and issues needing further consideration to make the field of trans health research more responsive to the needs of trans people. This work is limited by our authorship group being mostly White, all being Anglophone, and residing in the Global North.".
• 01GSF6YKV4WPH263TF3XC4TVAC abstract "The evolution (sensu lato) of the cosmos can be divided in three phases: cosmological evolution (sensu stricto), biological evolution and cultural evolution. Analogies between biological and cultural evolution date from the nineteenth century although it is only in the past two decades that so-called cultural evolution research has exploded. By contrast, comparisons between cosmological evolution and either biological or cultural evolution are uncommon. Here, we compare these three kinds of evolution and try to delineate their common grammar. Do their structure and underlying dynamics have characteristics in common? We believe that this is indeed the case and also that this Universal Grammar of Evolution can and should be used as a heuristic template in the study of these three kinds of evolution. Furthermore, this provisional template also might help scholars in their attempts to sketch the future course of a possible fourth kind of evolution, that of artificial intelligence and intelligent machines.".
• 01GSF6YKVJZETBQVA91TVYH624 abstract "In the late medieval period, Holland experienced substantial socio-economic change. While the region was largely undeveloped prior to 1200 CE, the period after was characterised by extensive urbanisation and flourishing international trade, changes that would have impacted many aspects of life. This paper investigates the effect of these changes on diet by comparing skeletal collections from the early/central medieval rural village of Blokhuizen (800-1200 CE) to the late medieval urban town of Alkmaar (1448-1572 CE) using a combination of the prevalence and location of carious lesions (n(teeth) = 3475) and stable carbon and nitrogen isotope data (n = 50). Results show that the urban Alkmaar population had a significantly higher caries frequency (7.4% vs. 16.1%), starting at a younger age. Moreover, Alkmaar had significantly more approximal caries. These results point to increased consumption of cariogenic products, such as sugars and starches, by the urban citizens. Dietary differences are also demonstrated by the stable isotope data. Alkmaar individuals have significantly enriched delta N-15 ratios and more variable delta C-13 ratios compared with rural Blokhuizen. The elevated delta N-15 values may be due to increased consumption of fish or animals such as omnivorous pigs and chickens. The combination of caries and isotopic data points to clear changes in diet suggesting that urban individuals in the late medieval period had a substantially different diet compared with early rural inhabitants from the same area. Specifically, an increase in market dependence, availability of international trade products, and the growth of commercial fishing in the late medieval period may have contributed to this dietary shift. Future research should include a late medieval rural population to better understand the effects of late medieval socio-economic developments outside of the urban environment. This study demonstrates that the integration of palaeopathology and stable isotopic research provides a more complete understanding of dietary changes in medieval Holland.".
• 01GSF6YKVW0TQTK1RD5YS6XXPA abstract "Since the 1991 Constitution, there has been an intense process of judicial intervention in the Colombian penitentiary system. This process has been driven by a novel form of resistance to subhuman conditions of imprisonment through the use of the courts by persons deprived of liberty, non-governmental organizations and legal clinics. This article focuses on the description of the processes that gave rise to the three most important structural decisions of the Constitutional Court of Colombia (Judgment T-153/1998; Judgment T-388/2013 and Judgment T-762/2017), and Its objective is to explain the challenges posed by the growing juridification of life in prison, as well as its impact on the protection of the human rights of persons deprived of their liberty.".
• 01GSF7DBD15J8V5ZVWFK5NC437 abstract "Additive manufacturing technologies have become at the forefront in tissue engineering, enabling the fabrication of complex tissues with intricate geometries that were not feasible using conventional manufacturing techniques. Due to the rapid progress in this field, it has become difficult not only to choose the most appropriate method, but also the optimal material, biological model (i.e., cells and bioactive compounds), and processing technique to fulfill the macro- and microstructural architecture and functions of biological tissues. The aim of this review is to describe recent advances in tissue engineering fabrication methods, from established electrospinning to emerging additive manufacturing technologies, with particular emphasis on tissues that exhibit hierarchically organized anisotropic architecture (skeletal muscle, tendons, and peripheral nerves). One of the current challenges is that the designs are usually dictated by the constraints imposed by the methods, rather than by criteria based on mechanical and biological requirements. Therefore, the review focuses on describing how the anatomical structure and function of muscles, tendons, and nerves should serve as the basis for an efficient three-dimensional design that considers both micro and macro aspects of the tissue. In addition, the individual factors that influence the fabrication strategy are discussed and related to the mechanical and biological properties of the three tissue types. The review highlights the advantages and limitations of each fabrication strategy and provides an overview of critical aspects relevant to future research strategies in this area.".
• 01GSFB7WYTBHMZCARD29BVE63M abstract "Area selective atomic layer deposition (AS-ALD) is an interesting bottom-up approach due to its self-aligned fabrication potential. Ruthenium dioxide (RuO2) is an important material for several applications, including microelectronics, demanding area selective processing. Herein, it is shown that ALD of RuO2 using methanol and RuO4 as reactants results in uninhibited continuous growth on SiO2, whereas there is no deposition on polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) blanket films even up to 200 ALD cycles, resulting in around 25 nm of selective RuO2 deposition on SiO2. The excellent selectivity of the process is verified with X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, X-ray fluorescence, and scanning transmission electron microscopy. AS-ALD is possible at deposition temperatures as low as 60 °C, with an area selective window from 60 to 120 °C. The deposition of RuO2 using other coreactants namely ethanol and isopropanol in combination with RuO4 increases the process's growth rate while maintaining selectivity. Testing different polymer thin films such as poly(ethylene terephthalate glycol), (poly(lauryl methacrylate)-co-ethylene glycol dimethacrylate), polystyrene, and Kraton reveals an important relationship between polymer structure and the applicability of such polymers as mask layers. Finally, the developed method is demonstrated by selectively depositing RuO2 on patterned SiO2/PMMA samples, followed by PMMA removal, resulting in RuO2 nanopatterns.".
• 01GSFC65JQ2F45VQ2SAV9N9F7W abstract "Ring resonators are a vital element for filters, optical delay lines, or sensors in silicon photonics. However, reconfigurable ring resonators with low-power consumption are not available in foundries today. We demonstrate an add-drop ring resonator with the independent tuning of round-trip phase and coupling using low-power microelectromechanical (MEMS) actuation. At a wavelength of 1540 nm and for a maximum voltage of 40 V, the phase shifters provide a resonance wavelength tuning of 0.15 nm, while the tunable couplers can tune the optical resonance extinction ratio at the through port from 0 to 30 dB. The optical resonance displays a passive quality factor of 29 000, which can be increased to almost 50 000 with actuation. The MEMS rings are individually vacuum-sealed on wafer scale, enabling reliable and long-term protection from the environment. We cycled the mechanical actuators for more than 4 × 10<jats:sup>9</jats:sup> cycles at 100 kHz, and did not observe degradation in their response curves. On mechanical resonance, we demonstrate a modulation increase of up to 15 dB, with a voltage bias of 4 V and a peak drive amplitude as low as 20 mV.".
• 01GSFDZZRVFGBR8QDE3RA8RGFW abstract "A fundamental parameter-based quantification scheme for confocal XRF was applied to sub-micron synchrotron radiation X-ray fluorescence (SR-XRF) data obtained at the beamline P06 of the Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron (DESY, Hamburg, Germany) from two sections C0033-01 and C0033-04 that were wet cut from rock fragment C0033 collected from Cb-type asteroid (162173) Ryugu by JAXA's Hayabusa2 mission. Trace-element quantifications show that C0033 bulk matrix is Cl-like, whereas individual mineral grains (i.e., magnetite, pyrrhotite, dolomite, apatite and breunnerite) show, depending on the respective phase, minor to strong deviations. The non-destructive nature of SR-XRF coupled with a new PyMca (a Python toolkit for XRF data analysis)-based quantification approach, performed in parallel with the synchrotron experiments, proves to be an attractive tool for the initial analysis of samples from return missions, such as Hayabusa2 and OSIRIS-REx, the latter returning material from a B-type asteroid (101955) Bennu in 2023.".
• 01GSFGNAME8ZC75K8PKTFT5W15 abstract "Thermal modification is widely applied to improve moisture dynamics of wood, however often decreasing the mechanical strength. It is therefore required to enhance the mechanical strength of thermally modified timber (TMT), for example by impregnation with adhesives. Specimens, cut from Douglas-fir, were thermally modified (TM) either after phenol formaldehyde (PF) resin impregnation (IM-TM) or before (TM-IM). The microstructural and chemical properties were investigated with SEM and FTIR. Compressive stress, as one of the important mechanical properties, was measured using a universal testing machine, while strain distribution was recorded with digital image correlation (DIC). The results show that the compressive stress of TM specimens can be enhanced significantly by PF resin impregnation. Compressive stress differences between IM-TM and TM-IM specimens are small despite of the larger amount of resin in TM-IM specimens. Thermal modification decomposes part of the PF resin in the cell lumens and promotes chemical reaction between the PF resin and wood. PF resin improves the stiffness and ductility of the wood cell wall, resulting in smaller strain and homogenous distribution thereof. These factors lead to high compressive stress of IM-TM and TM-IM specimens. Although PF resin impregnation contributes to narrowing strain accumulation in earlywood of TM specimens, control specimens have the smallest strain ratio between earlywood and latewood. The findings of this study are helpful for optimizing the cost effective thermal-impregnation technology of producing TMT with improved compressive stress.".
• 01GSFHCYCJVZZ9VX1KZ08TJHNN abstract "The bonding strength of glued wood is strongly related to wood type and environmental conditions, and this relationship is a dynamic variable. It is thus important to investigate the effect of wood type and relative humidity (RH) on the bonding strength using dynamic tests. Two-layered plywood was lab produced, and two sides of the bonding interphase were latewood and earlywood. After conditioning the samples at 60%, 80%, and 95% RH, the bonding strength was measured with a universal mechanical test machine, and strain distribution was recorded simultaneously with digital image correlation (DIC). The results show that bonding strength and deformation increased with an increase in RH. The moisture content (MC) in the latewood was more than that in the earlywood. This decreased the difference in stiffness between latewood and earlywood and led to a more homogeneous strain distribution. This can protect earlywood from failure caused by larger local structural ruptures. Large strain in latewood contributed to high bonding strength. For all samples, failure occurred in the glue line or on the side with earlywood only. For samples failing in the glue line, structural ruptures occurred in the bonding interphase and the wood next to the bonding interphase.".
• 01GSFKA5ND6STR41PWYHNCZXJN abstract "Individual differences in reading performance between children appear from the onset of literacy acquisition. One possible explanation for this variability is the influence of inhibition in reading ability, a topic that has received very little research attention. Nevertheless, children often make guessing errors characterized by replacing a word with an orthographic neighbor, possibly linked to failing inhibition. The present study aims to evaluate the role of inhibition during word and sentence reading and compare its effects in spoken and motor tasks. Participants comprised 25 children in Grades 2 and 3 (M-age = 8; 2). The children performed five inhibition tasks in reading (words, sentences), spoken (words, sentences) and motor modalities. Within the two reading tasks, inhibition demands were assessed using pairs of orthographic neighbors for which the frequency was manipulated. Accuracy, types of errors, latency, and response times were measured. GLMM analyses demonstrated that children were sensitive to the inhibitory demands of both spoken tasks and of the sentence reading task regarding accuracy, latency, and response times. Indeed, children made more mistakes and were slower when inhibitory demands were augmented. They also made more guessing errors in the word reading task. No such inhibitory effect was found in the motor task. Moreover, correlational analyses revealed that children who showed better inhibitory skills were able to read words and texts more accurately. These findings suggest that children need to utilize inhibitory resources when processing words or sentences and that these inhibitory skills are involved in overall reading ability.".
• 01GSFM0K1YYJ2C6ZXDG14Y5Y43 abstract "We extend the concept of the (pixellated) dispersive optical phased array with multiplexed tunable laser sources and show that these can at the same time be used for frequency-modulated continuous-wave (FMCW) distance and velocity measurements.".
• 01GSFPXRNN14MSTEW6HDMP8MFW abstract "The importance of place – as a unique spatial identity – has been recognized since antiquity. Ancient references to the 'genius loci', or spirit of place, evoked not only the location of a distinct atmosphere or environment, but also the protection of this location, and implicitly, its making and construction. This volume examines the concept of place as it relates to architectural production and building knowledge in early modern Europe (1400-1800). The places explored in the book's ten essays take various forms, from an individual dwelling to a cohesive urban development to an extensive political territory. Within the scope of each study, the authors draw on primary source documents and original research to demonstrate the distinctive features of a given architectural place, and how these are related to a geographic location, social circumstances, and the contributions of individual practitioners. The essays underscore the distinct techniques, practices and organizational structures by which physical places were made in the early modern period.".
• 01GSFQ8BVW8D07M8S03K110VA0 abstract "Purpose To report biomarkers present in the olfactory mucosa in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) in comparison with nasal polyps and to nasal mucosal tissues from control patients. To evaluate the kinetics of smell over 6 months in patients who underwent Reboot surgery. Methods Cohort study from May 2021 to May 2022. We collected samples of olfactory mucosa and nasal polyps from 16 CRSwNP patients and inferior turbinate samples from 20 control subjects. The study was not randomized for surgical and/or medical treatment. Samples were analyzed by Luminex and Unicap 100 to measure biomarkers of inflammation (IL1-beta, IL4, IL5, IL6, IL17, CCL3, CCL4, G-CSF, SE-IgE, total IgE and ECP). 12 of the CRSwNP patients underwent Extended Sniffin'tests at timepoints 1-4 days pre-surgery, and 1, 3 and 6 months after Reboot surgery. Results Type-2 markers were significantly elevated in OM and polyp tissue in CRSwNP (n = 16) vs. controls (n = 20), P < 0.05. TDI scores improved already 1 month (P < 0.05) after surgery and remained stable for 6 months. Type-2 inflammation in nasal polyps was associated with decreased sense of smell and taste before surgery, but improved after surgery (P = 0.048). Type-3 inflammation was present in the olfactory mucosa and was associated with a better sense of smell before surgery, but a smaller improvement of smell afterward. Conclusions Type-2 inflammation is present in the olfactory mucosa in CRSwNP patients and is associated with smell loss. Reboot surgery, aiming to completely remove inflamed sinus mucosa, significantly improves the smell in this group of patients.".
• 01GSFQPDS063KPJXXNSN0WW7FN abstract "Background: The aetiology of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is multifactorial with a complex interplay between environmental, microbial endogenous and genetic factors. The impact of outdoor air pollution on prevalence or severity of CRS remains largely unknown.Methods: Real-life geolocation data (2017-2018, Belgium) from 278 CRS patients (2576 health records) using the mySinusitisCoach mobile application were analysed to calculate the patients' individual exposure to outdoor air pollutants (ozone (O-3), black carbon (BC), nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and particulate matter with diameter < 2.5 mu m (PM2.5)) and to associate these pollutants with the patients' sinus related symptoms measured at multiple occasions by visual analogue scale (VAS).Results: The adjusted seasonal model for the spring-summer (n = 1000 health entries, N = 83 patients) population revealed an increase of 6.07 (p < 0.0001) in overall CRS symptom scoring for an interquartile range (IQR) increase in exposure to O-3 (26.9 mu g/m(3)). An increase of 1.69 (p = 0.05) in total CRS symptom scoring was observed for an IQR increase of PM2.5 (7.1 mu g/m(3)) exposure. Sex-stratified analysis in the spring-summer population showed significant interaction between air pollution and sex with male patients having higher total CRS symptom scores for an IQR increase in exposure to PM2.5 (3.52, p = 0.001), and O-3 (8.33, p < 0.0001), while no significant association with symptom severity was seen in the female patients. In the analysis stratified by comorbid asthma, CRS patients with comor-bid asthma had higher total CRS symptoms for an IQR increase in exposure to PM2.5 (2.58, p = 0.04) and O-3 (7.72, p < 0.0001) while the patients without comorbid asthma had no significant symptom increases.Conclusion: Exposure to outdoor air pollution is associated with increased symptom severity in CRS patients. The extent to which CRS patients are sensitive to outdoor air pollution exposure varies per season and depends on their sex and comorbid asthma status. mHealth technology has the potential to reveal novel insights on the patients' expo-some and disease severity in the real-life situation.".
• 01GSFQW5KYPCS45ADE4KVM3543 abstract "This study explores the scope and limitations of integrating audio description in the Spanish as a Foreign Language classroom, focusing on the use of pronominal verbs, one of the most controversial topics in Spanish grammar (Mendikoetxea, 1999). The purpose was to investigate whether Belgian Dutch-speaking students, with a B2 level of Spanish at the time of the study, use pronominal verbs in the same way as Spanish natives do. Furthermore, the final aim of this paper was to find out whether inter-semiotic translation (i.e., audio description) also improves learning outcomes with regard to written expression in Spanish as a Foreign Language. The results confirmed that the 58 Belgian students use significantly fewer pronominal verbs than the 46 Spanish students when writing in Spanish. Furthermore, they also show that audio description as a mode of audiovisual translation in the Spanish as a Foreign Language classroom is perceived positively by students, by offering them the opportunity to be creative and by being more challenging in their Spanish practice.".
• 01GSFQXC4WS4DT32FR9S4NZF11 abstract "BackgroundPredicting type 2 chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) may help for selection of appropriate surgical procedures or pharmacotherapies in advance. However, an accurate non-invasive method for diagnosis of type 2 CRSwNP is presently unavailable. MethodsTo optimize the technique for collecting nasal secretion (NasSec), 89 CRSwNP patients were tested using nasal packs made with four types of materials. Further, Th2(low) and Th2(high)CRSwNP defined by clustering analysis in another 142 CRSwNP patients using tissue biomarkers, in the meanwhile, inflammatory biomarkers were detected in NasSec of the same patients collected by the selected nasal pack. A diagnostic model was established by machine learning algorithms to predict Th2(high)CRSwNP using NasSecs biomarkers. ResultsConsidering the area under receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) for IL-5 in NasSec, nasal pack in polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) was superior to other materials for NasSec collection. When Th2(low) and Th2(high)CRSwNP clusters were defined, logistic regression and decision tree model for prediction of Th2(high)CRSwNP demonstrated high AUCs values of 0.92 and 0.90 respectively using biomarkers of NasSecs. Consequently, the pre-pruned decision tree model; based on the levels of IL-5 in NasSec (<= 15.04 pg/mL), blood eosinophil count (<= 0.475*10(9)/L) and absence of comorbid asthma; was chosen to define Th2(low)CRSwNP from Th2(high)CRSwNP for routine clinical use. ConclusionsTaken together, a decision tree model based on a combination of NasSec biomarkers and clinical features can accurately define type 2 CRSwNP patients and therefore may be of benefit to patients in receiving appropriate therapies in daily clinical practice.".
• 01GSFRAX4KHR1BKCYZNQYFFA1V abstract "Background Haemophilus influenzae (H. influenzae), Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus) and influenza vaccines are administered in children to prevent infections caused by these pathogens. The benefits of vaccination for asthma control in children and the elicited immune response are not fully understood. This study aimed to investigate the impact of these vaccinations on respiratory infections, asthma symptoms, asthma severity and control status, pathogen colonization and in vitro immune responses to different stimulants mimicking infections in asthmatic children. Methods Children aged 4-6 years were recruited into the multicentre prospective PreDicta study conducted across five European countries. Information about vaccination history, infections, antibiotic use, inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) use and asthma symptoms in the last 12 months were obtained from questionnaires of the study. Nasopharyngeal samples were collected at the first visit to assess bacterial and viral colonization, and venous blood for isolation of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). The PBMCs were stimulated with phytohemagglutinin, R848, Poly I:C and zymosan. The levels of 22 cytokines and chemokines were measured in cell culture supernatants using a luminometric multiplex assay. Results One-hundred and forty asthmatic preschool children (5.3 +/- 0.7 years) and 53 healthy children (5.0 +/- 0.8 years) from the PreDicta cohort were included in the current study. Asthmatic children were associated with more frequent upper and lower respiratory infections, and more frequent and longer duration of antibiotic use compared with healthy children. In asthmatic children, sufficient H. influenzae vaccination was associated with a shorter duration of upper respiratory infection (URI) and overall use and average dose of ICS. The airway colonization was characterized by less pneumococcus and more rhinovirus. Pneumococcal vaccination was associated with a reduction in the use rate and average dose of ICS, improved asthma control, and less human enterovirus and more H. influenzae and rhinovirus (RV) airway colonization. Influenza vaccination in the last 12 months was associated with a longer duration of URI, but with a decrease in the occurrence of lower respiratory infection (LRI) and the duration of gastrointestinal (GI) infection and antibiotic use. Asthmatic preschoolers vaccinated with H. influenzae, pneumococcus or influenza presented higher levels of Th1-, Th2-, Th17- and regulatory T cells (Treg)-related cytokines in unstimulated PBMCs. Under stimulation, PBMCs from asthmatic preschoolers with pneumococcal vaccination displayed a predominant anti-inflammatory immune response, whereas PBMCs from asthmatic children with sufficient H. influenzae or influenza vaccination were associated with both pro- and anti-inflammatory immune responses. Conclusion In asthmatic preschoolers, the standard childhood vaccinations to common respiratory pathogens have beneficial effects on asthma control and may modulate immune responses relevant to asthma pathogenesis.".
• 01GSFREZNPGR8CKT5J3WSW1V3J abstract "Programmable photonic chips allow flexible reconfiguration of on-chip optical connections, controlled through electronics and software. We will present the recent progress of such complex photonic circuits powered by silicon photonic MEMS actuators.".
• 01GSFRFJQZQRFV47B2Q9S4THC0 abstract "Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) is a predominantly type 2 inflammatory disease of the nasal and paranasal sinuses. Dupilumab is a monoclonal antibody that blocks the shared receptor component for interleukin-4 and interleukin-13, which are key and central drivers of type 2 inflammation. In clinical trials, dupilumab significantly improved objective and patient-reported measures of CRSwNP versus placebo and was well tolerated. Dupilumab is approved in the European Union, USA and Japan as add-on maintenance treatment for adults with inadequately controlled CRSwNP. There exists an important evidence gap between efficacy and effectiveness data for dupilumab in severe CRSwNP. In order to bridge this gap, the AROMA prospective global registry (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04959448) was established. AROMA will collect long-term data on the utilisation, effectiveness and safety of dupilumab for CRSwNP treatment in real-world clinical practice. AROMA will enrol approximately 1000 adults starting dupilumab for severe CRSwNP across 120 global sites. Baseline data will include patient demographics, medical/surgical history and presence of type 2 comorbidities. Effectiveness outcome assessments will include objective measures of CRSwNP assessed as part of routine clinical care and various patient-reported questionnaires. Treatment patterns, concomitant medications and long-term safety will also be recorded. Results from AROMA, the first prospective, real-world, global registry to characterise patients with severe CRSwNP starting dupilumab, will provide evidence on the real impact of dupilumab in patients with CRSwNP and complement the data from randomised clinical trials. The registry will also provide evidence on disease progression in patients with CRSwNP, including those with coexisting diseases.".
• 01GSFRQK0E9P97C090WEE7ZWKN abstract "In the airway, IgE is traditionally regarded as a key mediator in allergic diseases, such as AR and allergic asthma. However, growing evidence demonstrates the importance of local IgE in airway inflammatory diseases, irrespective of the presence of allergy. In this review, we discuss the most recent evidence for IgE in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps(CRSwNP), including the local IgE's characteristics, the modulation of its synthesis, and its function. The levels of local IgE are significantly elevated in polyps independently of IgE serum levels and atopic status. Local IgE, which is correlated with type 2 inflammation, is polyclonal and functional. IgE is produced by active B cells and is dependent on the class switch recombination(CSR). In NPs, this process is triggered by not only allergens but also microbial colonization, especially the superantigen- Staphylococcus aureus. The production of local IgE is modulated by lymphocytes(such as Tfh, ILC2s, iTreg), cytokines(such as IL-4, IL-13, IFN-gamma, TGF-beta, IL-2, IL-21), transcription factors, and B cell-intrinsic factor. Due to the central role of IgE in NPs, it is regarded as an ideal target for therapy and has been proved to be clinically successful. Based on this knowledge, we believe that exploring the trigger and regulatory factors for the activation of local B cells and CSR to IgE will provide more valuable information for us to recognize the pathological mechanisms of local IgE and offer the possible option for new therapeutic targets of nasal polyps.".
• 01GSFS70V71MP64FSW3XBEVVSC abstract "Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) is considered a nasal sinus inflammatory disease that can be dominated by immune cells and cytokines. IL-10 family cytokines exert essential functions in immune responses during infection and inflammation. Recently, the understanding of the roles of the IL-10 family in CRSwNP is being reconsidered. IL-10 family members are now considered complex cytokines that are capable of affecting epithelial function and involved in allergies and infections. Furthermore, the IL-10 family responds to glucocorticoid treatment, and there have been clinical trials of therapies manipulating these cytokines to remedy airway inflammatory diseases. Here, we summarize the recent progress in the understanding of IL-10 family cytokines in CRSwNP and suggest more specific strategies to exploit these cytokines for the effective treatment of CRSwNP.".
• 01GSFSRZSHSGNKN5XA7ED8SP1V abstract "Objective To evaluate the time for recovery of the sense of smell in patients with CRSwNP who underwent Reboot surgery compared to patients undergoing ESS in a long-term follow-up study. Methods Data were collected retrospectively from 168 patients with severe uncontrolled CRSwNP, who underwent revision surgery, either as Extended Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (Reboot, 140 patients) or as regular Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (ESS, 28 patients) between January 1, 2014, and December 31, 2015, aiming to compare the outcome of surgeries after 2 years of follow-up. Sense of smell was scored as judged by the patient using scores 0 to 3 reflecting a percentage estimate of remaining smell. Results Smell improved similarly in the Reboot and ESS groups over the first 9 months, which was maintained over 24 months in the Reboot, but not the ESS group (p = 0.007 after 18 months, p = 0.001 after 24 months). Furthermore, polyp recurrence rates were significantly lower in the Reboot group. Conclusion Reboot surgery significantly improved olfactory function and significantly reduced nasal polyp recurrence rates over 2 years post-operatively. Therefore, Reboot should be considered for patients with uncontrolled severe CRSwNP, specifically when ESS failed, to offer long-term smell and a polyp-free status.".
• 01GSFSYDKWZ2JA93K5Z53W19YD abstract "Background: In the phase III SYNAPSE study, mepolizumab reduced nasal polyp (NP) size and nasal obstruction in chronic rhinosinusitis with NP. Objective: We sought to assess the efficacy of mepolizumab in patients from SYNAPSE grouped by comorbid asthma, aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD), and baseline blood eosinophil count (BEC). Methods: SYNAPSE, a randomized, double-blind, 52-week study (NCT03085797), included patients with severe bilateral chronic rhinosinusitis with NP eligible for surgery despite intranasal corticosteroid treatment. Patients received 4-weekly subcutaneous mepolizumab 100 mg or placebo plus standard of care for 52 weeks. Coprimary end points were change in total endoscopic NP score (week 52) and nasal obstruction visual analog scale score (weeks 49-52). Subgroup analyses by comorbid asthma and AERD status, and post hoc by BEC, were exploratory. Results: Analyses included 407 patients (289 with asthma; 108 with AERD; 371 and 278 with BEC counts >150 or >300 cells/mL, respectively). The proportion of patients with greater than or equal to 1-point improvement from baseline in NP score was higher with mepolizumab versus placebo across comorbid diseases (asthma: 52.9% vs 29.5%; AERD: 51.1% vs 20.6%) and baseline BEC subgroups (<150 cells/mL: 55.0% vs 31.3%; >150 cells/mL: 49.5% vs 28.1%; <300 cells/mL: 50.7% vs 29.0%; >300 cells/mL: 50.4% vs 28.1%). A similar trend was observed in patients without comorbid asthma or AERD. More patients had more than 3-point improvement in nasal obstruction VAS score with mepolizumab versus placebo across comorbid subgroups. Conclusions: Mepolizumab reduced polyp size and nasal obstruction in chronic rhinosinusitis with NP regardless of the presence of comorbid asthma or AERD.".
• 01GSFT38PZYVJRFRXA1QCR9ZTX abstract "Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) is generally associated with eosinophilic tissue infiltration linked to type 2 inflammation and characterized by elevated levels of interleukin (IL)-5 and other type 2 inflammatory mediators. Although distinct and overlapping contributions of eosinophils and IL-5 to CRSwNP pathology are still being explored, they are both known to play an important role in NP inflammation. Eosinophils secrete numerous type 2 inflammatory mediators including granule proteins, enzymes, cytokines, chemokines, growth factors, lipids, and oxidative products. IL-5 is critical for the differentiation, migration, activation, and survival of eosinophils but is also implicated in the biological functions of mast cells, basophils, innate lymphoid cells, B cells, and epithelial cells. Results from clinical trials of therapeutics that target type 2 inflammatory mediators (including but not limited to anti-IL-5, anti-immunoglobulin-E, and anti-IL-4/13) may provide further evidence of how eosinophils and IL-5 contribute to CRSwNP. Finally, the association between eosinophilia/elevated IL-5 and greater rates of NP recurrence after endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) suggests that these mediators may have utility as biomarkers of NP recurrence in diagnosing and assessing the severity of CRSwNP. This review provides an overview of eosinophil and IL-5 biology and explores the literature regarding the role of these mediators in CRSwNP pathogenesis and NP recurrence following ESS. Based on current published evidence, we suggest that although eosinophils play a key role in CRSwNP pathophysiology, IL-5, a cytokine that activates these cells, also represents a pertinent and effective treatment target in patients with CRSwNP.".
• 01GSFT85SA1XYEMC7S9WFC64CT abstract "Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) with (CRSwNP) or without nasal polyps (CRSsNP) is a persistent, heterogeneous inflammatory condition affecting the upper respiratory tract. The present study aimed to improve the characterization of CRS endotypes based on the chemokine and cytokine expression pattern in the CRS tissues. Concentrations of chemokines and cytokines were measured in tissues from nasal biopsies obtained from 66 CRS patients and 25 control subjects using multiplexing or single analyte technologies. Cluster analysis based on the concentration of type-1 (MCP-3/CCL7, MIP-1 alpha/CCL3), type-2 (IL-5, MCP-3/CCL7, MIP-1 alpha/CCL3, TARC/CCL17, PARC/CCL18, IP-10/CXCL10, ECP), and type-3 (IL-22) chemokines and cytokines identified six CRS endotypes (clusters). Cluster 1 (type-3) and 2 (type-1) were associated with a low prevalence of nasal polyps, Cluster 3 (type-1, -2, -3) and Cluster 4 (type-2, -3, medium IL-22) with medium, and Cluster 5 (type-2, -3, high Il-22) and Cluster 6 (type-2) with high prevalence of nasal polyps. Asthma was highly prevalent in Cluster-6. Our findings add to the existing knowledge of CRS endotypes and may be useful for the clinical decision-making process. The advancement of biologics therapy for upper respiratory tract disorders rationalizes the personalized diagnostic approach to warrant a successful treatment and monitoring of CRS.".
• 01GSFTBA9HFZMA3V047XEWADXD abstract "BACKGROUND: Patients with asthma and/or chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) experience recurrent respiratory tract infections. Dupilumab targets type 2 inflammation, a common underlying pathophysiology of both conditions, with proven efficacy. OBJECTIVE: To examine investigator-reported respiratory infection adverse events and anti-infective medication use with dupilumab versus placebo in patients with moderate-to-severe asthma or severe CRSwNP. METHODS: We performed a post hoc analysis of the pivotal phase 3 trials LIBERTY ASTHMA QUEST (NCT02414854) and LIBERTY NP SINUS-52 (NCT02898454) in moderate-to-severe asthma and severe CRSwNP, respectively. RESULTS: Investigator-reported respiratory infection events occurred at a significantly lower incidence in patients treated with dupilumab versus placebo, in both asthma (22% lower; P < .0001; 95% CI 0.71-0.85) and CRSwNP (38% lower; P <0001; 95% CI 0.51-0.75). Reported upper and lower respiratory tract infection events were numerically or significantly lower in dupilumab-treated patients in both conditions, as were the number of patients experiencing investigator-reported infections. Significantly less systemic anti-infective medication use occurred in dupilumab versus placebo in asthma (24% lower; P < .0001; 95% CI 0.70-0.83) and CRSwNP patients (49% lower; P < .0001; 95% CI 0.43-0.61), and significantly fewer dupilumab-treated patients used anti-infective medications. When examined by season and month, the data indicated that investigator-reported respiratory infections and anti-infective medication use were less frequent in dupilumab-versus placebo-treated patients throughout the calendar year. CONCLUSIONS: Dupilumab treatment was associated with a reduced incidence of investigator-reported respiratory infections in patients with moderate-to-severe asthma or severe CRSwNP. Further studies are required to determine the mechanism behind this reduction. (C) 2021 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. on behalf of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology.".
• 01GSFTGBCYJPJR42GVFZNQ0JQK abstract "Major progress has been achieved in the understanding and clinical practice of chronic rhinosinusitis, with or without nasal polyps. These advances resulted in a better understanding of the pathophysiology, the distribution into subgroups, and consequently in a better management perspective using classical approaches and biologics. Pathomechanisms, endotypes and biomarkers, and finally innovative therapeutic approaches are themes especially for the more severe forms of chronic rhinosinusitis, those with uncontrolled severe nasal polyps. Biologicals against key type 2 cytokines are gaining ground in the long-term treatment approaches of often recurrent nasal polyps, and should be integrated in care pathways making use of classical and innovative treatment pathways. These areas of interest show a fast development and will profoundly change our disease management within a decade.".
• 01GSFVKMSNMSZ3AGW8MMBWYB8B abstract "Purpose: In the phase 3 SINUS-24 (NCT02912468) and SINUS-52 (NCT02898454) studies in adults with severe chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP), dupilumab significantly improved the co-primary endpoints of change from baseline to Week 24 in nasal polyp score (NPS) and nasal congestion/obstruction (NC) vs placebo on background intranasal corticosteroids (standard of care [SOC]). This post hoc analysis of SINUS-24/-52 investigated the direction and magnitude of within-patient change in these endpoints over time. Methods: NPS (scale 0-8) was assessed at Weeks 4, 8, 16, 24, 40, and 52 in SINUS-52 and Weeks 8, 16, and 24 in SINUS-24. Daily patient-reported NC scores (0 [no symptoms]-3 [severe symptoms]) were averaged over 28 days. Within-patient changes from baseline were assessed through Week 24 in pooled SINUS-24/-52 (n = 438/286 dupilumab/SOC) and through Week 52 in SINUS-52 (n = 150/153). Results: In SINUS-52, NPS improved in 70.0% of dupilumab-treated patients at Week 4 vs 31.8% with SOC (odds ratio [OR] 5.2 [95% confidence interval 3.1-8.8]) and 78.7% vs 28.2% at Week 52 (OR 10.6 [6.0-18.7]) (all p < 0.0001). NC improved in 73.3% of dupilumab-treated patients at Week 4 vs 46.7% with SOC (OR 3.2 [2.0-5.3]) and 86.9% vs 50.7% at Week 52 (OR 6.4 [3.5-11.5]) (all p < 0.0001). Clinically meaningful (>= 1 point) improvements in NPS occurred in 55.7% and 72.3% of dupilumab-treated patients at Weeks 4 and 52, respectively, vs 16.9% and 16.2% with SOC. Clinically meaningful (>= 1 point) improvements in NC occurred in 16.7% and 67.6% of dupilumab-treated patients at Weeks 4 and 52, respectively, vs 3.9% and 20.8% with SOC. At Week 52, NPS worsening from baseline was observed in 5.7% of dupilumab-treated patients vs 40.1% with SOC and NC worsening in 2.1% vs 20.8%, respectively. Conclusion: Dupilumab provided rapid, continuing, and clinically relevant improvements over time in NPS and NC in most patients with severe CRSwNP in the SINUS studies.".
• 01GSFWE74EG4AH148D2BEBH7H1 abstract "Plant-based food (PBF) is on the rise as an alternative for animal-based food. Europe is leading in the market size compared with the global market. However, the high failure rate for new food products is challenging the success of new PBF in the market. This paper aims to unravel the key success factors (KSFs) from existing brands, contributing to the knowledge on how to achieve success in PBF market. Two subsequent studies employing online surveys were included, which targeted food expert participants. Study 1 focused on the collection of KSFs related to PBF brands utilizing the card sorting approach. Study 2 employed cluster analysis to further investigate the KSFs among different PBF brands. The findings identified six clusters of KSFs under the external and internal factors supporting the success of the PBF brands. Two ('Consumer' and 'Trend') and four ('Ideology', 'Marketing strategy', 'Innovation management', and 'Management structure') clusters were assigned into external and internal factors, respectively. Furthermore, cluster analysis identified four brand clusters: 'Mature', 'Targeted', 'Newcomer', and 'Established but diversifying' clusters. Each brand cluster utilized different KSFs into their strategies; however, both external and internal factors were applied, suggesting that there is no one-size-fits-all KSF to succeed in the market.".
• 01GSFWE758PCMH37ZM8F7DPDN4 abstract "In the Ethiopian Upper Blue Nile Basin, like in other regions in the world, agricultural productivity is declining due to water scarcity owing to longer dry seasons coupled with soil acidity-induced fertility problems. Wheat is one of the major food security crops in Ethiopia but its productivity is reduced due to water scarcity, especially during the irrigation season. Addressing these problems might be essential to increase productivity. This study explores the effect of deficit irrigation (DI) combined with lime, manure and inorganic fertilizer on wheat production and water productivity (WP) in the Koga irrigation scheme, Ethiopia. Four levels of DI strategies (100% ETc or 0% deficit as a control, 80%, 60% and 50% ETc) were applied for two irrigated seasons. Five levels of soil fertility management were applied for four consecutive cropping seasons: (i) 0.86 t ha- 1 lime combined with 3 t ha- 1 manure and full dose urea and NPS-B (hereafter referred to as inorganic fertilizer) (L3); (ii) 1.15 t ha- 1 lime combined with 3 t ha- 1 manure and full-dose inorganic fertilizer (L2); (iii) 1.43 t ha- 1 lime combined with 3 t ha- 1 manure and full dose inorganic fertilizer (L1); (iv) 3 t ha- 1 manure combined with full dose inorganic fertilizer (M); and (v) full dose inorganic fertilizer alone (C). The grain yield and biomass data were collected at harvest from a sample area of 2 m x 3 m from each plot with three replicates. The effect of DI and liming, as well as manuring on average grain yield and biomass, were highly significant. Under all irrigation scenarios, higher grain yield and biomass were found at L1, L2, L3 and M (in that order), compared with C. The highest WP was obtained at 50% ETc irrigation dose, compared with 60%, 80% and 100% ETc (in that order). Yet, the lowest WP was found at C under all irrigation scenarios compared with L1, L2, L3 and M. The WP increased when the amount of water supply decreased and liming doses increased. The application of full dose lime and manure combined with 50% ETc DI resulted in comparable grain yield, biomass and WP as 100% ETc full irrigation at L3 and M. It could be concluded that liming and manuring could be used to mitigate the yield penalty effect of DI in the study area. In scenarios where farmers have to pay for water, profitability rises as the irrigation water supply reduces. Thus, under such conditions, a 50% ETc irrigation scenario is more profitable than scenarios with 60%, 80% and 100% ETc irrigation.".
• 01GSFWE75D7RPRMRGP1JP06F8G abstract "An improved 1D reactive settler model is pursued in order to increase the understanding of reactive settling processes and obtain a better prediction of the nitrogen mass balance in wastewater treatment systems. The developed model is based on the 1D Burger-Diehl settler model with compression function and the Activated Sludge Model No. 1 biological reactions. Specific attention was paid in the model development phase to optimal selection of settling velocity functions and integration of the correct clarifier geometry. A unique measurement campaign was carried out with different operational scenarios to quantify the denitrification in a secondary settling tank. A detailed step-wise calibration effort demonstrated that by choosing an appropriate settling velocity function (power-law structure) and considering the true clarifier geometry allows to accurately capture the biomass concentration profile, total sludge mass, sludge blanket height, and the reaction rates. The resulting model is able to accurately describe total suspended solids (TSS) and nitrate concentration profiles throughout a settling tank under different operational conditions. As such the model can be applied in further scenario analysis and system optimization. Practitioner Points A unique measurement campaign was carried out to obtain detailed data for a reactive settler model development.A 1-D reactive settler model is developed based on the Burger-Diehl framework including ASM1 biokinetics and the clarifier geometry.An extensive calibration and model selection effort was performed. The model accurately predicts measured concentration profiles in the settling tank.The developed model can be integrated in a plant-wide model to properly calculate the nitrogen mass balance of a WRRF.".
• 01GSFWE75M87A3YWMQGY69GNE8 abstract "Oriented strand board (OSB) is an important engineered wood product manufactured through bonding of wood strands in cross-oriented layers. The bending strength, one of the crucial properties for loadbearing material, of OSB strongly depends on its structural characteristics. To understand the bending strength of OSB, strain dis-tribution was continuously monitored during a three-point bending test using digital image correlation (DIC) and internal structure was recorded before and after bending using X-ray computed tomography (X-ray CT) respectively. Specimens were cut either along the length (L specimens) or width (W specimens) of OSB panels. For all specimens, strain accumulation mainly seemed to occur in the top and bottom layers and then propagate along or across the central layer. Structural changes in the top and bottom layers of L specimens was either strand delamination or snap off, while only snap off is found in W specimens. This is the main reason of high modulus of elasticity (MOE) and modulus of rupture (MOR) of L specimens in comparison to W specimens. High MOR of the specimens is attributed to strain propagation along the central layer, which can absorb energy from loading. Strain propagation across the central layer causes low MOR, resulting from failure of small strands and delamination in the central layer. Different modes of structural change lead to large variability of MOE, MOR and deformation of the specimens even cut from a single OSB panel. Understanding the bending strength contributes to optimizing the production and application of OSB.".
• 01GSFWE75RPQKKFKN0ST8XQYRE abstract "Ceramic membranes are highly promising for application in organic solvent nanofiltration (OSN). Unfortunately, the governing molecular transport mechanisms are not yet fully understood. To study the importance of different transport mechanisms, we analyze transport through these membranes using Maxwell-Stefan theory. We show that the total flux is dominated by the viscous contribution, when using Poiseuille's law. Cross-coupling of the order of magnitude observed in liquids, leads to changes in reten-tion of up to 20%. Finally, it was shown that non-ideal thermodynamics in the external liquid phase can explain changes from positive to negative retention when using the same solute in different solvents. This work opens perspectives to choose simpler mass transfer models for process modelling, as well as pro-vides physical insight into which mass transfer mechanisms are important in OSN with ceramic membranes. @2022 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.".
• 01GSFWE7639TZRP0SZ8G0WK66B abstract "Acidogenesis of sugarcane vinasse at 15 and 20 kgCOD m(-3) in a batch bioreactor occurred via acrylate and homoacetogenesis pathways. Both these pathways were incorporated into the Anaerobic Digestion Model Number 1 (ADM1) and they were validated with biomolecular analysis. As a novelty of this work, ADM1 was modified integrating a new lactate consumption pathway to the model (Lactate -> Acetate + Propionate +Hydrogen) and the homoacetogenesis (Hydrogen + CO2 -> Acetate) to initial concentrations of vinasse of 15 and 20 kgCOD m(-3). To evaluate the microbial community involved in such fermentative pathways, biomass samples were taken from the reactor operated with vinasse under organic matter concentrations of 15, 20 and 30 kgCOD m(-3), which was analyzed by 16S rRNA gene massive sequencing. Moreover, the abundance of hydrogen producing microorganisms and homoacetogens were quantified by q-PCR. It was mathematically demonstrated that the acrylate and homoacetogenesis pathways were able to describe the system at low concentrations of sugarcane vinasse (15 and 20 kgCOD m(-3)) and the microbial community compositions confirmed the presence of microorganisms with the metabolic pathways hypothesized here.".
• 01GSFWE7672J6V4NV5EZGAGVRJ abstract "The European starling, Sturnus vulgaris, is an ecologically significant, globally invasive avian species that is also suffering from a major decline in its native range. Here, we present the genome assembly and long-read transcriptome of an Australian-sourced European starling (S. vulgaris vAU), and a second, North American, short-read genome assembly (S. vulgaris vNA), as complementary reference genomes for population genetic and evolutionary characterization. S. vulgaris vAU combined 10x genomics linked-reads, low-coverage Nanopore sequencing, and PacBio Iso-Seq full-length transcript scaffolding to generate a 1050 Mb assembly on 6222 scaffolds (7.6 Mb scaffold N50, 94.6% busco completeness). Further scaffolding against the high-quality zebra finch (Taeniopygia guttata) genome assigned 98.6% of the assembly to 32 putative nuclear chromosome scaffolds. Species-specific transcript mapping and gene annotation revealed good gene-level assembly and high functional completeness. Using S. vulgaris vAU, we demonstrate how the multifunctional use of PacBio Iso-Seq transcript data and complementary homology-based annotation of sequential assembly steps (assessed using a new tool, saaga) can be used to assess, inform, and validate assembly workflow decisions. We also highlight some counterintuitive behaviour in traditional busco metrics, and present buscomp, a complementary tool for assembly comparison designed to be robust to differences in assembly size and base-calling quality. This work expands our knowledge of avian genomes and the available toolkit for assessing and improving genome quality. The new genomic resources presented will facilitate further global genomic and transcriptomic analysis on this ecologically important species.".
• 01GSFWE76BZPWJPKNEHN0S5Q97 abstract "Discrete choice experiments (DCEs) have become an often-used research method in food research due to their ability to uncover trade-offs made when choosing among multiple alternatives, especially when dealing with credence attributes. Insights into the main elements of the consumers' decision-making process are key to informing both public and private policies related to food production and consumption. However, DCEs are not confined to this field of study. This narrative methodological review sets out to provide a critical appraisal of the state of the art of DCEs in food research. We logically structure our review by comparing the field-independent state-of-the-art to its application in the specific food choice research domain. The comparison is presented for each of the steps required in implementing DCEs and allows for the identification of areas of improvement in best practice. We find that food research has adopted many of the methodological advances over the years, but further improvements are encouraged and outlined. Recommendations for future research are discussed.".
• 01GSFWE76FYWBK05D3X5N39630 abstract "The growth of Aspergillus flavus 01 (AF01) and Fusarium proliferatum 01 (FP01) was studied on paddy and white rice, using a full factorial design with five temperature levels (20, 25, 30, 35 and 40 C) and five points of water activity (0.80, 0.85, 0.90, 0.95 and 0.99 aw). The maximum radial growth rates (mu max, mm.day? 1) and lag times (lambda, days) of both fungal strains were estimated by linear regression. When the obtained values were compared with the prediction of reported predictive models for growth of A. flavus 01 and F. proliferatum 01, none of the reported models was able to describe the growth as determined by water activity and temperature adequately. Therefore, new secondary models were developed to describe the obtained fungal radial growth rate of both strains on paddy and white rice as a function of temperature and water activity. The results showed that optimum radial growth rate of AF01 and FP01 were estimated at 0.99 aw/35 C and 0.99 aw/30 C, respectively. Both strains failed to grow at 0.80, 0.85 and 0.90 aw at all observed temperatures (except for AF01 at 0.90aw/35 C). Multi-factorial cardinal and General Polynomial models were the best models to describe combined influence of water activity and temperature on fungal growth rate on both matrices with the bias factors of 0.771-1.10 and accuracy factors of 1.102-1.297. These values should be concerned during storage to mitigate fungal growth on paddy and white rice.".
• 01GSFWE76K8XV6725G64TVN14Y abstract "Groundwater fluxes in tidal marshes largely control key ecosystem functions and services, such as vegetation growth, soil carbon sequestration, and nutrient cycling. In tidal marshes restored on formerly embanked agricultural land, groundwater fluxes are often limited as compared to nearby natural marshes, as a result of historical agricultural soil compaction. To improve the functioning of restored tidal marshes, knowledge is needed on how much certain design options can optimize soil-groundwater interactions in future restoration projects. Based on measured data on soil properties and tidally induced groundwater dynamics, we calibrated and evaluated a 2D vertical model of a creek-marsh cross-section, accounting for both saturated and unsaturated groundwater flow and solute transport in a variably saturated groundwater flow model. We found that model simulations of common restoration practices such as soil amendments (increasing the depth of porous soil on top of the compact layer) and creek excavation (increasing the creek density) increase the soil aeration depth and time, the drainage depth and the solute flux, and decrease the residence time of solutes in the porewater. Our simulations indicate that increasing the depth to the compact layer from 20 cm to 40 cm, or increasing the creek density from 1 creek to 2 creeks along a 50 m marsh transect (while maintaining the total creek cross-sectional area), in both cases more than doubles the volume of water processed by the marsh soil. We discuss that this may stimulate nutrient cycling. As such, our study demonstrates that groundwater modelling can support the design of marsh restoration measures aiming to optimize groundwater fluxes and related ecosystem services.".
• 01GSFWE76PTMREFAN25XWDA4NQ abstract "Mobile phone apps can be a cost-effective way to provide decision support to farmers, and they can support the collection of agricultural data. The digitisation of agricultural systems, and the efforts to close the digital divide and to include smallholders, make data ownership and privacy issues more relevant than ever before. In Central and South American countries, smallholders' preferences regarding data licenses and sharing have largely been ignored, and little attention has been paid to the potential of nonfinancial incentives to increase the uptake of digital solutions and participation by farmers. To investigate incentives for smallholder farmers to potentially use an agricultural advisory app in which they share their data, a Discrete Choice Experiment was designed. Based on a survey of 392 farmers in Mexico, preferences for attributes related to its usage were revealed using a conditional logit (CL) model. To explore heterogeneity, groups and profiles were explored through a latent class (LC) model. The CL model results revealed, for example, farmers' positive preference to receive support at first use and access to training, while negative preference was found for sharing data with private actors. The LC identified three classes which differ in their preference for attributes such as the degree of data sharing. Furthermore, for example, a farmer's connectedness to an innovation hub was found to be one of the significant variables in the class membership function. The main contribution of the study is that it shows the importance of nonfinancial incentives and the influence of data sharing on farmer preferences.".
• 01GSFWE76TRGNKECHX4NP4DJAT abstract "Improving the model-based predictions of plant species under a projected climate is essential to better conserve our biodiversity. However, the mechanistic link between climatic variation and plant response at the species level remains relatively poorly understood and not accurately developed in Dynamic Vegetation Models (DVMs). We investigated the acclimation to climate of Cedrus atlantica (Atlas cedar), an endemic endangered species from northwestern African mountains, in order to improve the ability of a DVM to simulate tree growth under climatic gradients. Our results showed that the specific leaf area, leaf C:N and sapwood C:N vary across the range of the species in relation to climate. Using the model parameterized with the three traits varying with climate could improve the simulated local net primary productivity (NPP) when compared to the model parameterized with fixed traits. Quantifying the influence of climate on traits and including these variations in DVMs could help to better anticipate the consequences of climate change on species dynamics and distributions. Additionally, the simulation with computed traits showed dramatic drops in NPP over the course of the 21st century. This finding is in line with other studies suggesting the decline in the species in the Rif Mountains, owing to increasing water stress.".
• 01GSFWE76Y33R49N4VXKHCJ12N abstract "The increasing availability of real-time in situ measurements and remote sensing observations have the potential to contribute to the optimization of water resources management. Global challenges such as climate change, intensive agriculture and urbanization put a high pressure on our water resources. Due to recent innovations in measuring both water quantity and quality, river systems can now be monitored in real time at an unprecedented spatial and temporal scale. To interpret the sensor measurements and remote sensing observations additional data for example on: the location of the measurement, upstream and downstream catchment characteristics, horizontal ellipsis are required. In this paper, we present a data management system to support flow-path related functionality for decision making and prediction modelling. Adding meta data sets and facilitating (near) real-time processing of sensor data questions are key concepts for the systems. The potential of the database framework for hydrological applications is demonstrated using different applications for the river system of Flanders. In one, the database framework is used to simulate the daily discharge for each segment within a catchment using a simple data-driven approach. The presented system is useful for numerous applications including pollution tracking, alerting and inter-sensor validation in river systems, or related networks.".
• 01GSFXHWSQ0AC7RW9627TQKGAJ abstract "This paper presents a detailed analysis of predictive numerical simulations of liquid pool fires, i.e., a 1 m – diameter methanol pool, a 0.7 m × 0.8 m ethanol pool, and a 0.18 m – diameter heptane pool. The burning rate is predicted using the ‘film’ model, including empirical correlations for heat and mass transfer. Although the forced convection approach (used in Fire Dynamics Simulator, FDS 6.7.5) yields relatively good results in fuel evaporation rate, it is somewhat questionable from a fundamental standpoint for quiescent burning conditions. Therefore, the natural convection approach is implemented in FDS 6.7.5. The predicted burning rates are similar to the forced convection approach, but the fuel surface temperature is closer to the boiling point by the natural convection approach. Based on the extensive analysis for the methanol pool fire, a modified natural convection correlation is proposed. The latter is tested for the ethanol test with satisfactory results for the peak Heat Release Rate (HRR), burning time, and surface temperature (closer to the boiling point). The modified natural convection approach is further tested for the heptane pool fire. Improved predictions are obtained for the peak burning rate, the transient stage, and the surface temperature.".
• 01GSJ7HX0BA3NV7EGZZB8RDCE4 abstract "Juvenile defendants have the right to be heard and to participate during proceedings before the juvenile court. For participation to be effective, five steps elaborated by the United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child need to be taken into account: the preparation for the hearing, the hearing itself, the assessment of the capacity of the minor, the feedback to the minor, and the possibility to lodge a complaint or an appeal. Based on qualitative interviews with professionals and minors, this article examines the five steps in Flemish practice. The results show a variety of experiences and practices concerning participation due to a lack of regulation. As a result, effective participation now strongly depends on the will and competence of individual professionals.".
• 01GSJ8EJVGYV0DG319ZA3BXKV9 abstract "Case note under European Court of Human Rights, judgment of 1 September 2022 ‒ 885/12 – Safarov v Azerbaijan (finding a violation of Art 1 of Protocol No. 1 to the ECHR).".
• 01GSJDW4DTE3ZJP9XCSG2E69EM abstract "China's confrontation with European modernity in the middle of the nineteenth century not only had an important impact on the way the traditional Confucian elite saw themselves and China's position in the world, but also had an important impact on Chinese Buddhism. The Chinese Buddhist world was hereby not only confronted with the growing competition of new religions such as Christianity, but found itself compelled to redefine its position in Chinese society in conditions of increased secularization, and the ideas of socialism, communism, and anarchism advancing. This article examines how the famous Buddhist reformer Taixu (1889–1947) was inspired by these new ideologies to reform Buddhism on the one hand, but how he also clung to the Chinese tradition and its focus on religion on the other hand. The article argues that Claude Henri de Rouvroy, count of Saint-Simon (1760–1825), a French reform thinker during the French Revolution, may have had a more important impact on Taixu's thinking than has been recognized to date.".
• 01GSJM990P4F8AB9RCKT1NXKV3 abstract "Presents the proceedings of the 5th International Conference on Numerical Modelling in Civil Engineering (NME 2022) Written by experts from the field present contemporary advancements in theory Provides an overview of theoretical and analytical methods".
• 01GSJMV1J8N3K8V1KAS3Q22AKW abstract "In this paper, an efficient optimization algorithm is used to predict the uncertain material parameters based on finite element (FE) model updating. For this purpose, an objective function is determined based on the difference between the dynamic characteristics of the measurement and FE results. Then, this objective function is optimized to determine the model’s uncertain material parameters. K-means optimizer (KO), a powerful algorithm developed by the authors in previous work, is used to handle this procedure. Then, the model's uncertain material parameters are determined by optimizing the objective function. The feature of KO is that it creates a strong balance between the abilities of exploration and exploitation. At the same time, this algorithm has also significantly improved the escape from local optima, which is appreciated to solve the complex problems. To evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed method, a practical example is used, i.e., a simple steel beam. The results obtained in this study have proved the effectiveness of the proposed method. At the same time, the KO algorithm is also shown to be a powerful algorithm for solving the optimization problems.".
• 01GSJMYRW233C9EHM2MHSZC6EP abstract "Structural damage diagnosis employing optimization techniques has been receiving the attention of scientists worldwide. This is due to the simplicity of implementing a stochastic optimization process and the robust development of optimization algorithms. These advantages create diverse applications of optimization algorithms in many areas of life. An inverse problem-based approach for damage detection is very time-consuming. Artificial neural networks (ANN) can overcome this drawback. However, ANN’s performance is much dependent on its architecture. Recently, a heuristic optimization algorithm, Artificial Gorilla troops optimizer (AGTO), was developed. Its effectiveness has been proved through optimization benchmarks and engineering problems. In this paper, Gorilla troop's social intelligence is utilized to identify damaged segments in a simply supported girder bridge. AGTO serves as a trainer in supervised learning to determine the optimized number and size of hidden layers in the architecture of ANN. First, the bridge's finite element model is modelled using as-built drawings. Then, each girder of the bridge is assumed to be suffered stiffness reduction at several locations to simulate single and multi-damage. The frequency changes and mode shapes are the inputs of ANN. The error in damage location and severity between prediction and target is the objective function of the proposed approach. Several types of objective functions, like mean squared error (MSE), root-mean-square error (RMSE), mean absolute error (MAE) and standard deviation-based function (SDBF), are investigated for this problem. The findings confirm that the computational cost of the proposed approach is more significant than ANN’s. In contrast, the accuracy and precision of the AGTOANN are superior. Besides, in light of prediction accuracy, MAE and RMSE show better performance compared with MSE and SDBF.".
• 01GSJN395M4HX72M202NJVA9H1 abstract "Over the last decades, optimization algorithms, especially Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) have been applied successfully in many fields. PSO contains a great capacity of global search that helps it converge faster in the first steps. However, in the local search stage, the convergence speed of PSO reduces significantly, especially when the elements are close to the global best. This reduces the effectiveness and increases the computational cost of PSO. In this work, we propose combining Firefly Algorithm (FA) and PSO to deal with optimization problems. This algorithm can employ the global search capacity of PSO and the local search capacity of FA. The proposed method is applied for Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) for a large-scale truss bridge. The obtained result shows that the proposed method surpasses traditional PSO and FA in terms of accuracy.".
• 01GSJN7X2WNWY7JM3GZAA9QG49 abstract "In this paper, a nonlinear approach is employed to investigate how the embedded length of sheet pile toe in soft clay affects the lateral displacement of retaining wall for a soft clay-deep excavation. Firstly, an inverse analysis using a finite element (FE) model and the Geotechnical software (PLAXIS), combined with field measurements is adopted to validate soil parameters. Then, a series of investigations are conducted to assess the effect of the sheet pile toe’s embedded length on the displacement of retaining wall in detail. Finally, several conclusions can be drawn based on the obtained results.".
• 01GSJNBTE07S0QQ8VNPQDJHWF9 abstract "In this study, a highly efficient optimization methodology for damage identification in steel structures, especially truss structures, is introduced. Natural frequencies are adopted as an objective function for optimization. In order to deal with the optimization problem, a set of optimization algorithms is employed for the purpose of damage detection in a three-dimensional (3D) truss structure. To assess the behaviour of truss structures, a finite element (FE) model is used. The efficiency of each algorithm is assessed through examples of truss-like structures. The achieved results are compared with each other, and based on these results, several conclusions are drawn.".
• 01GSJNEX44K5CQZB4CXQ2PP1R0 abstract "The concrete compressive strength (CS) is an important parameter used for durability design and service life prediction of concrete structures in civil engineering projects. It usually has a high nonlinear relationship with the age and main components of concrete, which makes it difficult for traditional regression analysis methods to perform predictive modelling. This study presents a data-driven Kriging model for predicting concrete CS under standard curing period. Two popular machine learning algorithms, namely Artificial Neural Network (ANN) and Support Vector Regression (SVR), are used for comparisons to validate the predictive ability of Kriging model. In addition, a parameter correlation analysis is implemented to reveal the intrinsic association of the selected seven main components of concrete and concrete CS. This study led to the following conclusions: (1) compared with ANN and SVR, the data-driven Kriging model has the highest accuracy in predicting concrete CS, and (2) the results of the parameter correlation analysis coincide with the physical laws of concrete CS.".
• 01GSJYQV6Q4TVMWRY583XPTG0Z abstract "Quorum-sensing peptides (QSPs) are bacterial peptides traditionally considered only as inter-bacterial communication molecules. Recently, their involvement in microbiome-host interactions influencing host diseases such as cancer and sarcopenia were explored. However, it is still unknown to what extent these peptides have the potential to modulate the immune system. In this proof-of-concept study, we screened 89 QSPs for their potential to induce IL-6 and TNF alpha in murine splenocytes and J774 macrophages. Confirmatory experiments on the positive screening-hits were conducted using murine splenocytes and human PBMCs of different ages. Finally, to investigate the biological relevance of immunomodulatory QSPs, we analysed plasma in a human cohort for the presence of the immunomodulatory QSP Q010. To do this, we used a newly developed UHPLC-MS/MS method. Our findings indicated that specific QSPs activate immune cells in vitro, with Q007, Q010, Q017 and Q212 being the top four screening hits. Q007 and Q010 were affirmed in subsequent confirmatory experiments using murine splenocytes and human PBMCs. Finally, Q010 was detected in human plasma, demonstrating for the first time the presence of an immunomodulatory QSP in human circulation. In conclusion, our data are the first evidence indicating the potential of biologically relevant quorum-sensing peptides to modulate the immune system.".
• 01GSJZEJKWF312MH58529Y08TY abstract "Recent deep-learning-based classification models for hyperspectral images (HSIs) yield near-perfect classification accuracy on benchmark data sets. However, applying them in real scenarios often requires programming skills and machine learning expertise, which makes the usage of these algorithms unfriendly for domain experts. In this paper, we provide a web-based application, HSIToolbox, for the classification of HSI with a user-friendly graphical interface, which allows a domain expert to view, label and manage HSIs, and to train out-of-the-box deep learning models on the server. HSIToolbox supports different operating systems and different HSI data formats. With a developed queuing system and web interface, HSIToolbox can be accessed remotely by multiple users at the same time.".
• 01GSK3DA7ZNTVMSP7H3YBCCZJV abstract "Robot-assisted simple prostatectomy (RASP) has demonstrated better peri-operative outcomes as compared to open simple prostatectomy. However, RASP is still limited by platform availability and cost-effectiveness issues. The new surgical robots increasing competition may spread the robotic approach also in non-oncological fields. We reported the first RASP executed in Europe at OLV Hospital (Aalst, Belgium) performed with the novel HUGOT Robot-Assisted Surgery (RAS) System. The platform consists of four independent carts, an open console, and a system tower equipped for both laparoscopic and robotic surgery. Our main goal was to demonstrate the technical feasibility of RASP with the novel HUGOT RAS along with its safety in terms of perioperative outcomes and complications. We also aimed to describe our surgical setup. We collected patient ' s baseline characteristics, intraoperative and perioperative complications, postoperative outcomes, docking time, operative time, clashing of the instruments, or technical errors of the system. The procedure was performed in a 72-year-old male with a prostate volume of 155 g at preoperative imaging. No need for conversion to open/laparoscopic surgery and/or for additional port placement was required. No intraoperative complications, instrument clashes, or failure of the system that compromised the completion of the surgery were recorded. Docking, operative, and console times were 9, 150, and 120 minutes, respectively. The catheter was removed on the second postoperative day. No postoperative complications occurred. The postoperative uroflowmetry revealed a maximum flow of 26.2 mL/s, without postvoid residual volume. Robot-assisted simple prostatectomy with the HUGOT RAS System is a feasible and safe procedure in terms of perioperative outcomes and complications. Our setup allowed for a rapid docking procedure and a smoothly completion of the surgery.".
• 01GSK3FC63BJZR6GE3FHYD4X1C abstract "Renal cell carcinoma is among major causes of death in patients with Von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) syndrome, and it usually presents with multiple and bilateral lesions that may require multiple renal surgeries. This, in turn, may compromise renal function, resulting in end-stage renal disease. To minimize renal function impairment in these patients, great importance is given to the preservation of functional parenchyma with the use of nephron-sparing techniques. Furthermore, new techniques such as off-clamp surgery, selective suturing or sutureless techniques may improve long-term functional outcomes. We described the case of a 27-year-old male patient with a family history of VHL disease affected by multiple, bilateral renal masses. He received bilateral, metachronous robot-assisted partial nephrectomies (RAPN) for a total of 15 renal lesions. No intra- or post-operative complications occurred, and the patient was discharged on the second postoperative day after both procedures. Serum creatinine after the second RAPN was 0.99 mg/dl (baseline value was 1.11 mg/dl). In patients with VHL syndrome and multiple renal lesions, robot-assisted partial nephrectomy, especially with the use of clampless and sutureless techniques, helps minimizing renal function impairment and should be performed when anatomically and technically feasible.".
• 01GSN8K1JSBBABB6QX2WN0CYDB abstract "Strict air pollution restrictions have increased the need for effective low-temperature selective catalytic reduction (LT-SCR) of NOx with hydrocarbons (HC), and as such, mixed metal oxides and clay minerals supported catalysts have received significant attention. Pillared interlayered clay (PILC) materials use clay mineral as a raw material for catalyst support coupled with metal oxide particles to provide a porous structure between clay mineral layers through ion exchange. PILC has been widely used in catalysis and adsorption applications, due to its meso-microporous structure, good surface acidity, large specific surface area, adjustable pore size, interlayer ion -exchange nature, and good thermal stability. It is a widely used catalyst carrier material with excellent per-formance for LT-SCR of NOx with HC. Notably, the montmorillonite (Mt) based Cu-and Fe-PILC catalysts exhibited a high LT-SCR activity, which can be assigned to the excellent redox capability of the co-existing FeIII/ FeII and CuII/CuI. In addition, the presence of CuII isolated species, as well as the strong interaction between Fe, Cu, and PILC support is believed to increase the SCR activity. This review study is primarily focused on the clay mineral importance and Mt-based PILC-supported catalysts for LT-SCR of NOx with HC. In addition, the SCR performances of various metals-supported PILC-based catalysts were compiled, in order to study their proposed reaction mechanisms, the influence of metal loading, effects of O2, H2O, and SO2 poisoning for HC-SCR of NOx conversion. This study provides a detailed review of Mt-based PILC catalysts for LT-SCR technology, including recent challenges and future prospects.".
• 01GSNKNQZXWYFKHZ9ZJ2NH2NNE abstract "This chapter studies the institutional investor’s voice in the Netherlands, focusing on shareholder voting in particular. The Dutch Stewardship Code, developed by institutional investor platform Eumedion, emphasizes the engagement and responsibilities of institutional investors in Dutch listed companies and should further boost engagement with investees. With a new dataset, the authors observe that institutional investors critically consider (non-)current voting items which could negatively affect shareholder rights, like some of the amendments of the articles of association as well as remuneration packages of directors that contain insufficient or inappropriate incentives. Compared to other investors, institutional investors show significantly higher opposition rates. Particularly, Eumedion members show even higher opposition rates than other institutional investors. However, there may still be room for a stronger focus on the activities and outcomes of stewardship, including changing the behaviour of companies, and not just policy statements.".
• 01GSNMRPP6CD2WG4BGJZE55PA6 abstract "All over the world, companies play an important role in the economy. Different types of stakeholders hold the reins in these companies. An important class are the shareholders that finance the activities of these companies. In return, stakeholders have a say on how these companies should be organized and structure their activities. This is primarily done through voting and engaging. These mechanisms of voting and engaging allow the shareholders to decide significant aspects of the company structure, from who governs it to how much directors are paid. However, how shareholders vote and engage and how far their rights stretch are organized differently in different countries. This pioneering book provides insights into what rights these shareholders have and how the shareholders of companies in nineteen different jurisdictions participate in corporate life through voting and engaging. Comparative and international in scope, it pays particular attention to how jurisdictions align and differ around the world.".
• 01GSNMXC20VBF4AK282J8SMKKF abstract "As in many other countries, shareholders in French companies have only those powers that are conferred upon them or upon the general meeting. Nevertheless, the general meeting is vested with important rights: it is in charge of the election of the board of directors, has a say-on-pay and a say on related party agreements as well as a number of ‘fundamental decisions’ of the corporation. Shareholders make active use of their (voting) rights. In practice, shareholder participation remains relatively stable over time, with higher participating rates of shareholders with double voting rights and an increasing number of shares voted by mail. Most voting items are approved with a large majority of the votes, although those on remuneration, related party agreements and share issuances are sometimes heavily contested. Engaged shareholders make regularly use of shareholder proposals and shareholder questions. Further, every year, a number of French companies are confronted with activist shareholders who want to effect changes in the strategy or governance of the company, albeit with varying degrees of success. To meet their requests, an increasing numbers of companies are appointing a director with special responsibilities vis-à-vis shareholders.".
• 01GSNNAQYZTS9D8STWKJGVGJ23 abstract "This chapter addresses the voting and other engagement practices in the 19 jurisdictions in this Handbook on Shareholder Engagement and Voting. First, it is shown that shareholder participation in AGMs differs significantly between countries, which is related to differences in ownership structures, ownership concentration, the powers of the general meeting of shareholders and the other means shareholders have for voicing their interests. Similarly, the powers of the general meeting of shareholders differ substantially between the different countries. Common shareholder voting items are relatively few but include some kind of vote on board nominees and some say over pay although in some countries compensation is an exclusive business of the board of directors. Shareholder proposals seem to be more common in common law countries where it is relatively easy to table a proposal. Questioning the board at general meetings is a widespread practice of especially small shareholders, contrary to many other shareholder engagement techniques commonly used by (institutional) investors. The wide diversity of engagement practices shows that an optimal and efficient division of powers between shareholders and board has not yet been found.".
• 01GSNY0SKZVQYJGHY6BABJ5RG0 abstract "Background: Membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis is a histological pattern of glomerular injury due to the deposition of immune complexes and complement factors. It is associated with bacterial and viral infections, auto-immune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus and Sjögren's syndrome, monoclonal gammopathy, and complement disorders (dense deposit disease and C3 glomerulopathy). Case presentation: This is the report of a 25-year-old male with membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis who was initially treated for systemic lupus erythematosus, but who was later diagnosed with nephritis due to a chronic infection of a central nervous system shunt, last revised at the age of 3 years old. Discussion: We highlight the challenges in making an early diagnosis of shunt nephritis, and succinctly discuss the clinical, biochemical, histopathological findings, and differential diagnosis of this type of infection-related glomerulonephritis.".
• 01GSQ1CFEW1HQ7DAMJTANNMHS2 abstract "This dissertation investigates explanation in the engineering domains of failure analysis and accident causation. Explaining accidents and failures is important for learning, preventing, repairing and in some cases figuring out responsibility. The work presented here aims to clarify some widespread explanatory practices, strategies, and formats in these domains, using insights and accounts from philosophy of science. A series of case studies are used to highlight the structure and value of explanatory practices within engineering science. The crash of Air France 447 is used to highlight the way in which different explanations are evaluated when unequivocal evidence is missing. Analysing this case highlighted, among other things, that in failure analysis an important criterion driving the explanation is the ability to provide valuable redesign information. This insight is further exemplified in other cases such as malfunctioning Samsung Galaxy 7 mobile devices. Another interesting result stems from analysing how engineers explain the breaking of metals and other ductile materials. One key factor in explaining these ruptures is the presence of small voids, which when merging together to a sufficient extent provoke the disjointing of metal pieces. The explanatory strategy employed here is that of a mechanical story, despite voids or holes not being the sort of entity that can behave mechanically. An analysis of how these explanations work is presented together with a description of the cognitive benefits they provide. In addition to looking at concrete case studies, the dissertation also looks at the modelling practices used when analysing the causality of accidents. The way in which the causality of accidents is modelled has a direct impact on understanding and preventing accidents, as well as on the adjudication of legal responsibility. Different modelling strategies encode differing causal information, resulting in key differences in applicability, scope, effectiveness, and explanatory power. An account of the value of the most important modelling practices is put forward, regimented by precise tools from philosophy of science which highlight the relevant trade-offs each modelling approach offers. This analysis allows to make suggestions as to which modelling strategy 192 is best suited to achieve specific aims, such as preventing accidents or adjudicating legal responsibility. Finally, key philosophical and theoretical tools are employed in building a procedure which aims at improving the practice of Failure Analysis. This procedure structures the information contained in explanations such that it enables to find weak points, to compare competing explanations, and to provide redesign recommendations. In doing so it becomes a tool for assessing the quality of failure explanations. The procedure offers failure analysts a practical tool for critical reflection on some areas of their practice while offering a deeper understanding of the workings of failure analysis (by framing it as an explanatory practice) and redesign. Two case studies from Mechanical and Civil Engineering are used to exemplify how the procedure works/is intended to work.".
• 01GSQ3ZXKZZFNR5XGA8QPVHXJQ abstract "De professoren Eric Brewaeys, Philippe Colle, Erna Guldix en Bruno Maes werden na een rijkgevulde loopbaan aan de VUB toegelaten tot het emeritaat. Als dankbetuiging en blijk van waardering aan dit redelijk eigenzinnig viertal bieden de collega’s van de vakgroep Privaat- en Economisch Recht hen graag een liber amicorum aan. De gevierden hebben generaties juristen wegwijs gemaakt in het gerechtelijk recht (Eric Brewaeys en Bruno Maes), het handels-, vennootschaps- en verzekeringsrecht (Philippe Colle), en het personen-, familie-, gezondheids-en internationaal privaatrecht (Erna Guldix) en schreven vele gezaghebbende publicaties in hun vakgebied. In beste VUB-traditie combineerden zij daarbij steeds een uitgebreide academische expertise met een maatschappelijk engagement en oog voor de behoeften van de praktijk: Eric Brewaeys eerst als advocaat en later als voorzitter van de Vlaamse Regulator voor de Media en staatsraad, Philippe Colle aanvankelijk als advocaat aan de balie van Brussel en later, o.m., als gedelegeerd bestuurder van Assuralia en bestuurder van het VBO, en Bruno Maes als advocaat en later stafhouder van de balie bij het Hof van Cassatie. Erna Guldix verrichtte pionierswerk bij de juridische omkadering van de medisch begeleide voortplanting, was advocaat en bekleedde tevens lange tijd de hoedanigheid van plaatsvervangend vrederechter. In dit liber amicorum brengen vrienden, collega’s en (oud-)medewerkers hulde aan de gevierden. Zij doen dit met wetenschappelijke bijdragen die aanknopen bij het werk van de gevierden en de nieuwste juridische ontwikkelingen belichten. De diversiteit aan auteurs en thema’s in dit liber zijn een passend eerbetoon aan de gevierden.".
• 01GSQ4KCBT2V0PDPV13SDK621T abstract "In de moderne wereld maken de bezorgdheid over het milieu en de stijgende vraag naar elektriciteit het gebruik van schone energie noodzakelijk - van de zon, wind en de productie ervan op meerdere gedistribueerde locaties. De 21e eeuw heeft een herstructurering van het conventionele elektriciteitsnet nodig, zowel qua infrastructuur als qua werking, om het moderne "slimme net" te ontwikkelen. De slimme netten van de toekomst zullen worden geïntegreerd met informatie- en communicatietechnologieën (ICT) om de vraag naar elektriciteit op een schone, economische, duurzame en milieuvriendelijke manier te ondersteunen. Het moet intelligent zijn – om energie uit verschillende bronnen te beheren en te distribueren naar talloze locaties waar energie nodig is. Het is in deze evenwichtsoefening dat technieken van kunstmatige intelligentie nodig zijn. Het werk in dit proefschrift maakt de identificatie en het gebruik van energieflexibiliteit mogelijk die door consumenten wordt aangeboden. Op fysica gebaseerde machineleuning wordt gebruikt om flexibiliteitsidentificatiemodellen te ontwerpen, en versterkingsleuning wordt gebruikt om besturingspolicies te leren om deze flexibiliteit te gebruiken. Dit proefschrift bestudeert drie verschillende smart grids-toepassingen, namelijk huishoudelijke verwarming, industriële processen en EV-opladen. Voor het geval van EV-laden wordt ook een synthetische datagenerator ontwikkeld.".
• 01GSQ4T79RR8G3HZGCR4XMQ29W abstract "Vermicomposting converts organic wastes into high-quality nutrient-rich compost and has been considered as a suitable technology for developing countries, especially at the household and community level as it is a simple and natural technology that does not require sophisticated machinery and frequent process monitoring. In addition, attempts to address SOM and nutrient losses in a sustainable manner in sub Saharan Africa countries require careful optimization of use of organic amendments such as through vermicomposting. We performed a vermicomposting experiment using three-earthworm species, exotic (Eisenia fetida and Eisenia andrei) and indigenous (Eudrilus eugeniae), fed on six different substrates made from agricultural wastes (cow and donkey manure separately spiked with three types of equally mixed crop residues (maize with soybean (MS), maize with banana (MB) and soybean with banana (SB)) to assess the nutrient stabilization in the resulting compost; and performed an incubation experiment using a selection of these vermicomposts to study the net N mineralization of the composts, and how they affected soil microbial properties such as microbial biomass C, dehydrogenase and β-glucosidase activities, in Nitisols. Earthworm activities during vermicomposting of agricultural wastes accelerated the rapid decomposition of mixed substrates and resulted with a significant reduction of TOC (C mass loss > 65%) and C:N ratios (twofold compared to the control without earthworm) and an increase in N mineralization and the total concentration of P, K and S. The effect of vermicompost on N availability and soil microbial quality significantly varied depending on vermicompost sources. The vermicompost made from cow manure mixed with soybean and banana residues using Eudrilus eugeniae had the highest net N mineralization (32.4 µgNg-1 soil, 75% of N added). Regardless of vermicompost type, amended soils had significantly higher microbial and enzymatic activities than unamended control. Our results suggest that vermicompost sources tested could reliably use for long-term improvement of soil nutrient mineralization and microbial activity under Nitisols of Ethiopia due to their greatest microbial activities and nutrient dynamics during vermicomposting.".
• 01GSQ6DWSEJ5713S80J5BWSXH5 abstract "Objectives: To evaluate the experienced barriers of care for treatment-seeking trans individuals (TSTG) in three large European clinics. Methods: An online follow-up questionnaire was filled out by 307 TSTG individuals as part of the research protocol of the European Network for the Investigation of Gender Incongruence (ENIGI). Data was collected during follow-up in 2017/2018, around 5 years after participants had their initial clinical appointments in Ghent (Belgium), Amsterdam (the Netherlands), or Hamburg (Germany). Background characteristics, country, treatment characteristics and mental health were analyzed in relation to experienced barriers of care (EBOC, measured though agreement with statements). Results: The majority of participants reported various EBOC, oftentimes more than one. The most-frequently reported EBOCs pertained to the lack of family and friends' support (28.7%, n = 88) and travel time and costs (27.7%, n = 85), whereas around one-fifth felt hindered by treatment protocols. Also, a significant share expressed the feeling that they had to convince their provider they needed care and/or express their wish in such way to increase their likelihood of receiving care. A higher number of EBOCs reported was associated with more mental health problems, lower income and female gender. Conclusions: A substantial number of TSTG individuals within three European health care systems experiences EBOCs. EBOCs relate to both personal and systemic characteristics. These findings can help health care providers and centers to improve care. More research must be done to better understand the diversity among TSTG individuals and the corresponding barriers experienced. Supplemental data for this article is available online at https://doi.org/10.1080/26895269.2021.1964409".
• 01GSQ7H31W2N8EYGWCP6QXTMQ2 abstract "Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming increasingly more prevalent in our daily social and professional lives. Although AI systems and robots bring many benefits, they present several challenges as well. The autonomous and opaque nature of AI systems implies that their commercialisation will affect the legal and regulatory framework. In this comprehensive book, scholars critically examine how AI systems may impact Belgian law. While specific topics of Belgian private and public law are thoroughly addressed, the book also provides a general overview of a number of regulatory and ethical AI evolutions and tendencies in the European Union. Therefore, it is a must-read for legal scholars, practitioners and government officials as well as for anyone with an interest in law and AI. In this second edition various chapters have been updated to reflect recent developments in the field. Two chapters covering media law and competition law have also been added.".
• 01GSQ8CQRCV4QRN9NJHBBXQWYG abstract "We demonstrate that projected entangled-pair states are able to represent ground states of critical, fermionic systems exhibiting both 1d and 0d Fermi surfaces on a 2D lattice with an efficient scaling of the bond dimension. Extrapolating finite size results for the Gaussian restriction of fermionic projected entangled-pair states to the thermodynamic limit, the energy precision as a function of the bond dimension is found to improve as a power law, illustrating that an arbitrary precision can be obtained by increasing the bond dimension in a controlled manner. In this process, boundary conditions and system sizes have to be chosen carefully so that nonanalyticities of the Ansatz, rooted in its nontrivial topology, are avoided.".
• 01GSQ8G0JGJWWKTY8PB4CT7V9P abstract "De futuristisch ogende trams van Straatsburg behoren tot de elegantste en performantste van Frankrijk. Na de vaststelling dat autobussen de automobilisten niet kon-den verleiden om voor het openbaar vervoer (OV) te kiezen, verwierp de bevolking een onbetaalbaar metroproject en stemde resoluut voor de aanleg van een gelijkgronds tramsysteem. Drie decennia na de ‘tramherrijzenis’ geldt Straatsburg als Europawijde referentie: de tram is er de aanjager van de stadsvernieuwing. Samen met begeleidingsmaatregelen vormt de Straatsburgse tram een comfortabel vervoermiddel dat via vlotte tramdoorstroming zorgt voor een comfortabel vervoermiddel in/naar de stad.".
• 01GSQ934YMN0VSB4G0R2K0N4PD abstract "Evidence exists regarding the impact of flourishing in individuals living with chronic pain, but there are currently no reviews which collate the literature on flourishing in adolescents living with chronic pain and their parents. Therefore, the aim of this scoping review was to map and review the current literature, to document how flourishing is defined and understood in the literature, and to identify gaps in the field. Six databases were searched (Web of Science, Medline, Embase, APA PsycNet and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials). In addition, a limited gray literature search was conducted. The resulting data were collated and reported in relation to the review questions, by examining the included papers to search for the presence of flourishing. Database searches resulted in 7326 papers after duplicate removal, with eight remaining papers being assessed for full-text eligibility. Following full-text screening, a final four papers were included in the review. Within the papers, flourishing was defined in relation to commonalities of benefit finding, enhanced maturity and growth, and social support. Gaps in the literature and directions for future research are considered. This review suggests that there is a dearth of knowledge and research regarding flourishing among adolescents living with chronic pain and their parents, despite aspects of flourishing identified in limited literature. This warrants further investigation.".
• 01GSQ9XZ844NE1S4ZXEP0BJ7YC abstract "Abstract In 2000, Marc Burger and Shahar Mozes introduced universal groups acting on trees. Such groups provide interesting examples of totally disconnected locally compact groups. Intuitively, these are the largest groups for which all local actions satisfy a prescribed behavior. Since then, their study has evolved in various directions. In particular, Adrien Le Boudec has studied restricted universal groups, where the prescribed behavior is allowed to be violated in a finite number of vertices. On the other hand, we have been studying universal groups acting on right-angled buildings, a class of geometric objects with a much more general structure than trees. The aim of the current paper is to combine both ideas: we will study restricted universal groups acting on right-angled buildings. We show several permutational and topological properties of those groups, with, as a main result, a precise criterion for when these groups are virtually simple.".
• 01GSQA6HMXJ2GGH543F35R55T2 abstract "Objectives The plethora of self-administered questionnaires to assess positive psychosocial factors complicates questionnaire selection. This study aimed to identify and reach consensus on the most suitable self-administered questionnaires to assess resilience, optimism, pain acceptance and social support in people with pain. Design A three-round modified Delphi study. Participants Forty international experts. Methods In Round 1, the experts suggested questionnaires deemed appropriate to assess resilience, optimism, pain acceptance and/or social support. In Round 2, experts indicated whether they considered the suggested questionnaires to be suitable (Yes/No/Don't know) to assess these psychosocial factors, taking into consideration content, feasibility, personal experience and the measurement properties which we provided for each questionnaire. Questionnaires that were considered suitable by the majority of experts (>= 60%) were retained for Round 3. In Round 3, the suitability of each questionnaire was rated on a 0-10 Likert scale. Consensus was reached if >= 75% of experts rated the questionnaire >= 7. Results From the 67 questionnaires suggested in Round 1, one questionnaire could be recommended per domain. For resilience: Pain Resilience Scale; for optimism: Revised Version of the Life Orientation Test; for pain acceptance: 8-item and Revised Versions of the Chronic Pain Acceptance Questionnaire; for social support: Emotional Support Item Bank of the PROMIS tool. Consensus for these questionnaires was also reached in a sensitivity analysis which excluded the ratings of experts involved in the development, translation and/or validation of relevant questionnaires. Conclusion We advocate the use of these recommended questionnaires so data can be compared and pooled more easily.".
• 01GSQF1STRR9604GZS32BBRPYA abstract "We present recent results on compact and power efficient C-band distributed feedback lasers through adhesive bonding of a III-V die onto a silicon-on-insulator circuit. A wall-plug efficiency up to 16% is achieved for bias currents below 40 mA. The laser cavity is 180 mu m long and a single facet output power up to 11 mW is measured at 20 degrees C by incorporating a broadband reflector in the silicon waveguide at one side of the cavity. Single mode operation at 1567 nm with a side mode suppression ratio of around 55 dB is demonstrated. By controlling the phase of the external feedback, the laser linewidth is decreased to 28 kHz. Measurement result shows a low relative intensity noise below -150 dB/Hz at 60 mA up to 6 GHz. We also report 20 and 10 Gbps data transmission at a bias current of 50 mA at 20 degrees C and 40 degrees C, respectively. (C) 2022 Optica Publishing Group under the terms of the Optica Open Access Publishing Agreement".
• 01GSQJ1ZN4JG2ACDET0TZD2FGV abstract "Understanding the 3D distribution of elements within mineralised rocks is crucial for understanding the formation of mineral deposits and developing efficient extraction methods1,2. X-ray microtomography (micro-CT) has established itself as an important tool to non-destructively characterise a wide-range of materials including ores and building materials over the last years2. However, traditional micro-CT imaging still only provides indirect insight into the chemistry of a material2. To address this challenge, a continuous effort is undertaken at the Ghent University Centre for X-Ray Tomography (UGCT) to develop workflows and bring techniques previously only available at the synchrotron to the lab, where they can be used on a routine basis on a wide-range of samples1,3–5. Here, we show how lab-based hyperspectral CT, a technique based on the difference in X-ray absorption energy of elements present within the sample6, can be used to differentiate between different mineral grains in mineralised samples. The association between specific elements and mineral phases and specific rock textures can then be studied in 3D, giving important insight into the formation process of the different minerals of potential economic interest. By complementing the capabilities of 3D hyperspectral CT and 2D scanning electron microscopy-based energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) a correlative workflow can be created to characterise materials crucial for the energy transition and a circular economy.".
• 01GSQJPQPZGZDMXT9CR339X3VY abstract "Job burnout affects countless workers and constitutes a major issue in working life. Prevention strategies such as offering part-time options and shorter working weeks have been widely advocated to address this issue. However, the relationship between shorter work regimes and burnout risk has not yet been investigated across diverse working populations applying validated measures and frameworks for job burnout. Building on the most recent operationalisation of job burnout and the seminal job demands–resources theory, the purpose of the current study is to investigate whether shorter work regimes are associated with lower burnout risk and whether the job demands–resources explain this association. To this end, a heterogenous sample of 1006 employees representative for age and gender completed the Burnout Assessment Tool (BAT) and Workplace Stressors Assessment Questionnaire (WSAQ). Our mediation analyses yield a very small but significant indirect association between work regimes and burnout risk through job demands, but no significant total or direct association between work regimes and burnout risk. Our result suggests that employees in shorter work regimes experience slightly fewer job demands, but are equally prone to developing burnout as their full-time counterparts. The latter finding raises concerns about the sustainability of burnout prevention that focuses on mere work regimes instead of the root causes of burnout.".
• 01GSQJTZJTPJSWTYGBN8F4T2SB abstract "SEXUAL ASSAULT CARE CENTRES IN BELGIUM: THE ROLE OF HEALTH PROFESSIONALS IN THE PATIENT-CENTRED CARE FOR VICTIMS OF SEXUAL VIOLENCE. AUTHORS Anke Vandenberghe1, Bavo Hendriks1, Laura Peeters1, Kristien Roelens, MD, PhD2, Ines Keygnaert, MD, PhD1 1: (International Centre for Reproductive Health (ICRH), Department of Uro-Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, UZP114, B-9000 Ghent) 2: (Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent University Hospital, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, UZP3, B-9000 Ghent) ABSTRACT BACKGROUND Aiming to provide holistic and patient-centred health care for victims of sexual violence, the Belgian federal government commits itself to establish Sexual Assault Care Centres (SACC). This study evaluated the care for victims of sexual violence in Belgian hospitals anno 2016 in order to formulate recommendations for the intended SACC-model. METHODS Between April and October 2016, a questionnaire scrutinizing caregivers’ knowledge, attitude and practices, the policy in hospitals and caregivers’ opinion towards the care for victims of sexual violence and the intended SACCs, was completed by 60 key health professionals active in 15 different hospitals attached to an Aids Referral Centre. Subsequently, a descriptive analysis with ‘IBM SPSS Statistics 23’ was performed. RESULTS The study showed a lack of knowledge and practical experience of caregivers regarding the care for victims of sexual violence. Approximately 30% of responding caregivers face emotional difficulties upon provision of care to victims of sexual violence. Participants evaluate the current care as good, despite the limited psychosocial support, follow-up, insight for the needs of vulnerable groups and support for family, relatives and health professionals. Yet, the majority of health professionals appraise the SACCs as the best approach for victims and caregivers. CONCLUSIONS Essential in patient-centred health care is an extensive and continuous education, training and supervision of health professionals concerning the care for victims, support for family, relatives and caregivers. The main challenges in establishing SACCs are situated at the institutional and policy level. A good collaboration with other institutions and further research are needed.".
• 01GSQKCM7GHF8PYNFDGSW360DB abstract "Luminescence thermometry represents a technique of choice for measurements in small objects and imaging of temperature distribution. However, most state-of-the-art luminescent probes are limited in spectral characteristics, brightness, photostability, and sensitivity. Molecular thermometers of the new generation utilizing air and moisture-stable zirconium(IV) pyridinedipyrrolide complexes can address all these limitations. The dyes emit pure thermally activated delayed fluorescence without any prompt fluorescence and show a unique combination of attractive features: a) visible light excitation and emission in the orange/red region, b) high luminescence brightness (quantum yields approximate to 0.5 in toluene and 0.8-1.0 in polystyrene matrix), c) excellent photostability, d) suitability for two-photon excitation and e) mono-exponential decay on the order of tens to hundreds of microseconds with strongly temperature-dependent lifetimes (between -2.5 and -2.9% K-1 in polystyrene at 25 degrees C). Immobilization in gas-blocking polymers yields sensing materials for self-referenced decay time read-out that are manufactured in two common formats: planar optodes and water-dispersible nanoparticles. Positively charged nanoparticles are demonstrated to be suitable for nanothermometry in live cells and multicellular spheroids. Negatively charged nanoparticles represent advanced analytical tools for imaging temperature gradients in samples of small volumes such as microfluidic devices.".
• 01GSQKJ6G8XE9YZNW3P777966S abstract "This chapter examines the practices of localisation within the context of transmedia/universe storytelling and recycled filmmaking in the age of SVOD platforms. It will argue that Netflix has a strong belief in locality, paying attention to the ‘wants and needs’ of their target audiences. Additionally, it will be shown that franchise development and cinematic worldbuilding has become increasingly central to Netflix’s production strategies. The series Undercover (Eén and Netflix 2019-) and subsequent spin-off film, Ferry (Cecilia Verheyden 2021), the central case studies of this chapter – which act as a kind of ‘blueprint’ in the Low Countries – will, moreover, demonstrate how Netflix’s focus on ‘localisation’ and on ‘franchise development’ are, in fact, intertwined. To do so, it builds on (1) a textual analysis of the series’ three seasons and the film; (2) interviews with members of the production teams: and finally (3) a brief analysis of the news discourse on the series and film in mainstream Flemish news media (N = 41) using the keywords ‘Ferry’, ‘Undercover’, and ‘Netflix’ in the GoPress/BelgaPress database.".
• 01GSQM7147XQVSN6RGNV44Z7GJ abstract "Sexual and domestic violence in primary care: what do GP’s need? Authors: Anke Vandenberghe, Elizaveta Fomenko, Ines Keygnaert Background Sexual and domestic violence are a major public health problem worldwide. The first representative research investigating the prevalence of sexual violence in the Belgian population aged 16 to 69 years found a lifetime prevalence of 64% (1). During the first 12 months of the COVID-19 pandemic at least 1 out of 3 Belgian residents became a victim of domestic violence (2). With general practitioners being key healthcare providers in primary care, it is extremely important to involve them in the care for victims of sexual and domestic violence. Methods Commissioned by the Belgian Federal Public Health Service and led by Prof. Dr. Ines Keygnaert, we are researching the role and needs of general practitioners in addressing sexual and domestic violence from November 2021 until May 2022. By means of a cartography we will first map out on a national level, , which support general practitioners consider necessary in dealing with domestic and sexual violence in primary care. Subsequently, through focus group discussions, a more in-depth questioning of the content and design of this support will take place. Finally, a first trial version of a practical guideline will also be evaluated in GP practices. Aim The ultimate goal is to draw up recommendations and clinical guidelines in terms of training, tools for implementation in practice and support for the care of victims of sexual and domestic violence within primary care. References: 1. Keygnaert I, De Schrijver L, Cismaru Inescu A, Schapansky E, Nobels A, Hahaut B, et al. Understanding the Mechanisms, Nature, Magnitude and Impact of Sexual Violence in Belgium. Brussels: Belgian Science Policy Office; 2021. 2. Keygnaert I, Wuyts E, Fomenko E, Nobels A, De Schrijver L, Vandeviver C. Eindrapport Onderzoek naar Relaties, Stress en Agressie in de eerste 12 maanden van COVID-19 in België. . Universiteit Gent - ICRH - IRCP; 2021 30 juni 2021.".
• 01GSQPGANG56K7JH5S4QDP54Y3 abstract "This review presents an overview of the spectrum of the current and cutting-edge MRI techniques for pelvic bone imaging in clinical practice. The current MRI sequences and their advantages, disadvantages and usefullness in the imaging of this complex anatomical region are addressed. Finally, cutting-edge techniques are discussed, including susceptibility weighted MRI, ultrashort echo time MRI, zero echo time MRI and a deep learning-based multiparametric MRI technique named `synthetic CT,' creating CT-like images without ionizing radiaton.".
• 01GSQR6CT9JBGZRFAFYEGMX42G abstract "Five comments below provide strong and interesting perspectives on multi-item scale use. They define contexts and research areas where developed scales are valuable and where they are vulnerable. Katsikeas and Madan begin by taking a global perspective on scale use, demonstrating how the use and transferability of scales become even more problematic as researchers move across languages and cultures. They provide guidance for scale use that is particularly relevant to international marketing and marketing strategy research. Brendl and Calder acknowledge the use of well-formed scales as measured variables in psychological experiments, both as independent and dependent variables, but critique the use of multi-item scales to directly reveal latent unobservable constructs. As with any observed variable, scales should be used to test empirical predictions based on theoretical hypotheses about causal connections between theoretical constructs. Lehmann applauds the variability of multi-item scales and urges the exploration of the impact of various items within a scale. He advocates for flexibility and variation in multi-item scales related to psychological theories, simple three-item scales for manipulation checks, and one-item scales when measuring objective actions or beliefs. Baumgartner and Weijters focus on how to validate multi-item scales, particularly when used as mediators or moderators where a unique interpretation of the scale is so central. They recommend meta-analyses of scales that test relationships among measured scales. Like Lehmann, they worry about the impact of exhaustive scales on respondents and the impact of exhausted respondents on the scales themselves. In the final comment, Wang and Huang update our thinking on emerging ways to define and refine scales. They discuss ways to identify focal and orbital constructs and suggest item response theory as a way to adapt scales to subsets of items that best contribute to identifying individual differences between respondents. They support confirmatory factor analysis across different studies to assess scale equivalence across different contexts, cultures, and languages.".
• 01GSQS4DRS824XZ24FS7KTN3KA abstract "An increased understanding of rotational strength as a potential prognostic factor for injury in contact and collision athletes may be important in planning return to sport. The aim of this study was to (1) determine the test-retest reliability of clinically relevant, angle-specific rotational and peak torque measurements in a cohort of uninjured collision and contact athletes; (2) develop a normal descriptive profile of angle-specific rotational torque measurements in the same cohort; and (3) examine the effects of direction and joint angle on shoulder rotational strength interlimb asymmetries. Twenty-three collision and contact athletes were recruited for the interday reliability substudy and 47 athletes were recruited for the remaining substudies. We used intraclass correlation coefficients with 95% confidence intervals to quantify interday reliability of all variables. We used a 2-way repeatedmeasures analysis of variance to analyze differences in absolute interlimb asymmetries. Interday reliability for the isokinetic strength variables was good to excellent (0.78-0.90) on the dominant side and moderate to good (0.63-0.86) on the nondominant side. Maximum angle-specific torque (as well as peak torque) can be measured reliably in internally and externally rotated positions. A normal profile of clinically relevant, angle-specific shoulder rotational torque measurements for collision and contact athletes has been established which provides a reference when assessing shoulder strength in this population.".
• 01GSQSBQY6EM0W70V0SM3NT99K abstract "In contrast to other species, cattle possess exceptional antibodies with ultra-long complementarity-determining regions (ulCDRs) that can consist of 40-70 amino acids. The bovine ulCDR is folded into a stalk and a disulfide-rich knob domain. The binding to the antigen is via the 3-6 kDa knob. There exists an immense sequence and structural diversity in the knob that enables binding to different antigens. Here we summarize the current knowledge of the ulCDR structure and provide an overview of the approaches to discover ulCDRs against novel antigens. Furthermore, we outline protein engineering approaches inspired by the natural ulCDRs. Finally, we discuss the enormous potential of using isolated bovine knobs, also named picobodies, as the smallest antigen-binding domains derived from natural antibodies.".
• 01GSQSCVBF8609WT3Q9626KGVR abstract "The commercial value of specialty carbohydrates and glycosylated compounds has sparked considerable interest in the synthetic potential of carbohydrate-active enzymes (CAZymes). Protein engineering methods have proven to be highly successful in expanding the range of glycosylation reactions that these enzymes can perform efficiently and costeffectively. The past few years have witnessed meaningful progress in this area, largely due to a sharper focus on the understanding of structure-function relationships and mechanistic intricacies. Here, we summarize recent studies that demonstrate how protein engineers have become much better at traversing the fitness landscape of CAZymes through mutational bridges that connect the different activity types.".
• 01GSQSHVPHGZEHX6VP3VYQ5N86 abstract "Protein evolution or engineering studies are traditionally focused on amino acid substitutions and the way these contribute to fitness. Meanwhile, the insertion and deletion of amino acids is often overlooked, despite being one of the most common sources of genetic variation. Recent methodological advances and successful engineering stories have demonstrated that the time is ripe for greater emphasis on these mutations and their understudied effects. This review highlights the evolutionary importance and biotechnological relevance of insertions and deletions (indels). We provide a comprehensive overview of approaches that can be employed to include indels in random, (semi)-rational or computational protein engineering pipelines. Furthermore, we discuss the tolerance to indels at the structural level, address how domain indels can link the function of unrelated proteins, and feature studies that illustrate the surprising and intriguing potential of frameshift mutations.".
• 01GSR87HK376TQVKRZFZJEGACY abstract "Background The tremendous physical and mental burden that comes with caregiving puts the intimate partners of patients diagnosed with advanced cancer at risk for mental disorders. However, most partners seem to be protected by resilience. Such a resilience process is promoted by certain individual characteristics (e.g., flexibility, positive attitude, internal strength, capacity to balance incoming and outgoing information, and ability to ask for and accept support and advice) and by the availability of a support network, consisting of family, friends, and healthcare professionals. Such a heterogeneous group striving towards the same goals can be considered a complex adaptive system (CAS), a concept stemming from complexity science. Aims To study the behavior of the support network through the lens of complexity science and to provide insights to the means by which an available network may promote resilience. Methods Nineteen interviews with members from the support networks of eight intimate partners were analyzed deductively using the CAS principles as a coding framework. Subsequently, the quotes under each principle were coded inductively to concretize patterns in the behavior of the support networks. Eventually, the codes were charted into a matrix to identify intra- and inter-CAS similarities, differences, and patterns. Findings The network’s behavior adapts dynamically to the changing circumstances as the patient’s prognosis worsens. Furthermore, the behavior is based on internalized basic rules (such as reassuring availability and maintaining communication without being intrusive), attractors (e.g., feeling meaningful, appreciated, or connected), and the history of the support network. However, the interactions are non-linear and often unpredictable due to the context member’s own concerns, needs, or emotions. Conclusions Applying the lens of complexity science to the behavior of an intimate partner’s support network gives us insight into the network’s behavioral patterns. Indeed, a support network is a dynamic system that behaves according to the principles of a CAS and adapts resiliently to the changing circumstances as the patient’s prognosis worsens. Moreover, the behavior of the support network appears to promote the intimate partner’s resilience process throughout the patient’s care period.".

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