Shape Factor Research Articles

Unveiling trends in migration of iron-based nanoparticles in saturated porous media

Nanoscale zero-valent iron (nZVI) particles are routinely used for environmental remediation, but their transport dynamics in different settings remain unclear, hindering optimization. This study introduces a novel approach to predicting nZVI transport in saturated porous model environment. The method employs advanced long column devices for real-time monitoring via controlled magnetic susceptibility measurements. Numerical modeling with a modified version of the MNMs 2023 software was then used to predict nZVI and its derivatives mobility in field-like conditions, offering insights into the radius of influence (ROI) and shape factor (SF) of their distribution. A standard nZVI precursor was compared with its four major commercial derivatives: nitrided, polyacrylic acid-coated, oxide-passivated, and sulfidated nZVI. All these iron-based nanoparticles exhibited identical particle sizes, morphologies, surface areas, and phase compositions, isolating surface properties, dominated by charge, as the sole variable affecting their mobility. The study revealed optimal transport when the surface charge of nZVI and its derivatives was strongly negative, while rapid aggregation of nZVI derivatives due magnetic attraction reduced their mobility. Modeling predictions based on column scale-up, indicated that detectable concentrations of 20 g L⁻1 were found at distances ranging from 0.4 to 1.1 m from the injection well. Slightly sulfidated nZVI traveled farther than the nZVI precursor and ensured more homogenous particle distribution around the well. Organically modified nZVI migrated the longest distances but showed particle accumulation close to the injection point. The findings suggest that minimal sulfidation combined with organic modification of nZVI surfaces may effectively enhance radial and vertical nZVI distribution in aquifers. Such improvements increase the commercial viability of modified nZVI, reduce their adverse impacts, and boosts their practical applications in real-world scenarios.

Beyond grades: Factors shaping academic career trajectory in gynecologic oncology fellowship applicants

Beyond grades: Factors shaping academic career trajectory in gynecologic oncology fellowship applicants

Unveiling the impact of low-molecular-weight organic acids on enrofloxacin sorption in North China agricultural soil: Insights and implications

Low-molecular-weight organic acids (LMWOAs) play a crucial role as components of dissolved organic matter in soil, influencing the sorption/desorption, degradation, and plant uptake of diverse pollutants within the agricultural soil ecosystem. This study delves into the sorption behavior and mechanism of the fluoroquinolone antibiotic enrofloxacin (ENR) on agricultural soil in North China, focusing on the impact of LMWOAs. Through batch equilibrium experiments, we explored the sorption/desorption kinetics of ENR under varying conditions such as temperature, pH, ion strength, and ion type, with the addition of acetic acid, oxalic acid, and citric acid individually. Our findings reveal that the sorption and desorption kinetics of ENR—whether with or without LMWOAs—conformed well to the pseudo-second-order kinetic model (R2 ≥ 0.997). The presence of LMWOAs notably enhanced ENR sorption while impeding desorption in soil, with oxalic acid demonstrating the highest promotion effect followed by acetic acid and citric acid. Moreover, the sorption capacity and affinity of ENR decreased with rising solution pH, dropping from 96.8%-98.5% to 30.9%–34.4%. Acidic conditions favored ENR retention in soil, with inhibition of sorption escalating alongside increasing ionic strength. LMWOAs, soil solution pH, and coexisting ions emerge as pivotal factors shaping ENR sorption behavior. Furthermore, LMWOA presence intensified desorption hysteresis of ENR on soil, with a desorption hysteresis coefficient (HI) ≤ 0.124. These results suggest that LMWOAs restrict ENR mobility in the local soil environment, heightening the risk of its accumulation in soil and crops. This study offers valuable insights into the intricate interplay among LMWOAs, ENR sorption dynamics, and environmental outcomes, underscoring the importance of understanding such complexities in agricultural soil management.

The eMoney revolution: how culture and technology drive adoption and use?

Purpose The use of electronic money (eMoney) as a noncash payment method is gaining popularity globally. However, the usages of eMoney are culturally influenced and can vary within a country. These cultural disparities can result in divergent patterns of eMoney adoption and use. This study aims to investigate the factors influencing the adoption and use of eMoney in Indonesia. This study integrated the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology model with Hofstede’s cultural dimensions to develop a framework examining both technological and cultural perspectives. Design/methodology/approach Data was collected through an online survey of 484 Indonesians and analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling. Findings The results showed that the constructs of the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology model, namely, performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence and facilitating conditions, all had a significant impact on behavioral intention to adopt eMoney as well as actual usage. However, not all of Hofstede’s cultural dimensions moderated these relationships as hypothesized. Surprisingly, masculinity/femininity and power distance emerged as important moderators of eMoney usage. Practical implications This integrated model provides valuable insights into how to consider cultural influences when designing strategies to promote new payment technologies in Indonesia. The findings point to both technological and cultural factors shaping patterns of adoption and use of eMoney in the country. Originality/value Although many research has looked at how culture affects the acceptability of technology in banking, few studies have looked at how culture affects the use of mobile money. This study offers a valuable contribution by investigating how Indonesian culture moderates the relationship between behavioral intentions and actual use of eMoney. The findings provide guidance for practitioners seeking to facilitate eMoney services in developing markets by elucidating the cultural factors that most influence customer adoption. As such, this research fills an important gap regarding the understudied domain of mobile money and its intersection with national culture.

Exploring the dynamic adult hard ticks-camel-pathogens interaction.

Ticks are obligatory hematophagous arachnids, serving as vectors for a wide array of pathogens that can be transmitted to animals and humans. The ability of ticks to acquire and transmit various pathogens depends on their attraction to quality reservoir hosts and the survival of the pathogens in ticks' gut and other tissues. However, the complex dynamics of tick-pathogen interaction and host-seeking behavior remain understudied. This investigation revealed notable variation in tick preference for domestic animals, with camel being the most preferred host. Moreover, our spatial analysis of tick attachment sites showed nostrils are the most preferred sites by various tick species. Our epidemiology data showed variation in the pathogens harbored by camel (host) and vector (Hyalomma rufipes), demonstrating the camel's efficiency as reservoir host and ticks' vector competence for various pathogens. With our behavioral experiment using H. rufipes and its preferred host's (camel) breath and body signature odors, we identified novel attractants for H. rufipes, thus offering new avenues for combating tick-borne diseases. Overall, our study presents novel insights into how multiple factors shape tick-host-pathogen interaction.

Improved algorithm for fracture-dissolution pore detection in resistivity imaging logging based on dung beetle optimization

Abstract Resistivity imaging logging has become a direct and precise method for visualizing the structural complexities of reservoir fractures and dissolution pores. The current use of Otsu's thresholding for segmentation results in poor segmentation quality and significant noise. Accurate segmentation of sub-images containing fracture and dissolution pore targets is essential for automated structure identification and subsequent parameter calculation. This study leverages the rapid convergence and robust global optimization capabilities of the Dung Beetle Optimizer to develop enhanced image segmentation approaches. Specifically, it introduces a refined K-Means algorithm for multi-category image segmentation and an Otsu algorithm for multi-threshold image segmentation, both optimized by the Dung Beetle Optimizer. Compared to conventional binary segmentation algorithms, this new algorithm effectively isolates noise and extracts multi-category information. Using the segmented sub-images, this paper integrates mathematical morphology techniques to compute parameters such as area, perimeter, tortuosity length, and pore shape factor for identified targets. Additionally, Principal Component Analysis is used to derive recognition factors for fractures and dissolution pores. Applications show that this factor can identify matrix, fracture, and dissolution pore targets in complex background images. By combining parameter information of the target area, the method effectively removes false information in resistivity imaging and segments sub-images of fractures and dissolution pores, calculating fracture area ratio, dissolution pore area ratio, and total area ratio.

Sand State Parameter from CPT

A cone penetration test (CPT) based procedure is proposed to determine the in-situ density and state parameter (ψ) of cohesionless soils. To date several correlations have been developed to estimate ψ from CPT results, but most correlations are based on limited calibration testing and/or require soil constitutive parameters from laboratory shear tests. The new framework is based on a limit pressure calculated using cavity expansion theory and a semi closed-form solution that is scaled to existing calibration chamber data using a chamber shape factor. This enables estimation of ψ directly from CPT results, which makes it practical and theoretically sound. This facilitates determining ψ for use in flow failure assessment procedures for dams and embankments.

Media, trust, and the influence of urban/rural context and education on public sector worker stereotypes

ABSTRACT Public employees often face pervasive negative stereotypes. Despite a growing body of research, the factors contributing to such stereotypes remain underexplored. We present a pre-registered study with two population-based survey experiments using video vignettes—on teachers and police officers. Both investigate the impact of mediatized events, trust, and personal characteristics on stereotyping (n = 3,502). Our results show that news reports affect stereotyping of both professions. High and low trust are linked to positive and negative stereotyping, respectively. Lastly, urban/rural setting and education yield mixed effects. Our findings offer theoretical and practical implications for understanding factors shaping public employee stereotyping.

Temporal Trends in Dementia Incidence in Sweden: Insights from NEAR Data

Abstract Background This study investigates the temporal trends of dementia incidence in Sweden over a span of 35 years, drawing on data from the National E-Infrastructure for Aging Research (NEAR). Methods Our comprehensive analysis encompassed over 10,000 participants aged 50 and above. We estimated dementia incidence rates across the study period, considering birth cohort, age, and sex while controlling for potential confounders. Additionally. We explored potential modifiers influencing the estimated trend of dementia incidence. Results The analysis reveals a notable decline in dementia incidence rates, particularly among individuals born in more recently. Octogenarians born in the 1920-1930 cohort had a 74% lower dementia incidence rate compared to their counterparts born before 1900. Similarly, nonagenarians born in the 1910-1920 cohort experienced a 45% lower incidence rate. We further investigate determinants influencing this declining trend, shedding light on various factors shaping the observed patterns. Conclusions The incidence rate of dementia in Sweden has shown a consistent decline over the past 35 years, with a notable birth cohort effect indicating lower rates among individuals born more recently. This finding suggests evolving factors in lifestyle, healthcare, or environmental conditions contributing to improved cognitive health outcomes. Key Messages • These findings underscore the importance of proactive public health measures aimed at sustaining and enhancing cognitive health outcomes among aging populations. • Understanding the temporal dynamics and underlying factors driving these trends can inform strategies for promoting healthy aging and improving the quality of life for older adults.

The Scourge of measles

Abstract Once considered a disease of the past, the resurgence of measles in England has garnered significant attention in recent weeks and months. The uptake of routine childhood vaccines including the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine is the lowest it has been in a decade and is well below the 95% uptake needed to protect the population and prevent outbreaks. This is giving this serious disease a chance to get a foothold in our communities. From having never seen a case of measles in their life time doctors in England are now notifying cases of measles based on clinical suspicion. Since October, we have seen a rapid increase in both measles cases and outbreaks of measles across England (the total number of cases confirmed since October 2023 to date is 1109) and it has been declared a national incident. The abstract highlights the consequences of vaccine hesitancy, illustrated by case studies of outbreaks of measles among susceptible populations such as schools and prisons and the steps being taken to control the spread. Social media misinformation, distrust in healthcare authorities, and concerns over vaccine safety are some of the factors shaping parental attitudes towards MMR vaccination. In response to these challenges, the abstract underscores the importance of targeted interventions aimed at addressing vaccine hesitancy, such as community engagement initiatives, tailored communication strategies, and healthcare provider training. By emphasizing the critical role of MMR vaccination in preventing measles resurgence, this abstract advocates for a collaborative approach involving healthcare stakeholders, policymakers, and the public to combat to combat this preventable yet persistent threat to public health.

Roma mothers of infant children in the health system - a qualitative study

Abstract Background The Roma in Bulgaria constitute the third largest group - 4% of the population. Data on demographic processes by ethnicity are scarce. A national survey in 2003 found significant differences in infant mortality - 9.9‰ for Bulgarian, 18‰ for Turkish, and 28‰ for Roma infants. Poverty among Roma children, risk of poor education, especially for girls, barriers to accessing health services remain high. We aim to reveal the cultural specificity in prenatal behavior and infant care among Roma mothers in the context of the role of the Bulgarian health service. Methods In-depth interviews with Roma mothers of infants up to 1 year were utilized for data collection. To ensure heterogeneity among the interviewees, several “nests” with varying socio-cultural status in the Varna district were identified in advance for participants recruitment. A list of interview themes concerning respondents’ relationships with the public health system with an emphasis on the experiences of mothers was drawn up. Results Ten interviews with mothers having between 1 and 7 children were conducted in 2023. The mothers recounted discriminatory experiences during their interactions with certain health facilities (maternity wards), which act as barriers to accessing and utilizing health services. Maternity and infant counselling services are highly esteemed with favorable influence on child health outcomes. There has been a positive shift away from early marriage and childbirth towards prioritizing education for Roma girls. Mothers prioritize their children, and there is no neglect in their care. Family relations and support are being upgraded, with Roma fathers becoming involved in child care. Respondents express their educational needs and hopes for community-based support to better cope with their roles as mothers. Conclusions Ethno-cultural factors shaping the mother’s role maintain traditional family support, while also reflecting significant modernization that needs societal support. Key messages • A glimpse into people’s experiences of the healthcare system - a clue to its effectiveness. • Тhe ethno-cultural factors in Roma are subject to modernization.

Deciphering the variation in cuticular hydrocarbon profiles of six European honey bee subspecies

The Western honey bee (Apis mellifera) subspecies exhibit local adaptive traits that evolved in response to the different environments that characterize their native distribution ranges. An important trait is the cuticular hydrocarbon (CHC) profile, which helps to prevent desiccation and mediate communication. We compared the CHC profiles of six European subspecies (A. m. mellifera, A. m. carnica, A. m. ligustica, A. m. macedonica, A. m. iberiensis, and A. m. ruttneri) and investigated potential factors shaping their composition. We did not find evidence of adaptation of the CHC profiles of the subspecies to the climatic conditions in their distribution range. Subspecies-specific differences in CHC composition might be explained by phylogenetic constraints or genetic drift. The CHC profiles of foragers were more subspecies-specific than those of nurse bees, while the latter showed more variation in their CHC profiles, likely due to the lower desiccation stress exerted by the controlled environment inside the hive. The strongest profile differences appeared between nurse bees and foragers among all subspecies, suggesting an adaptation to social task and a role in communication. Foragers also showed an increase in the relative amount of alkanes in their profiles compared to nurses, indicating adaptation to climatic conditions.

The transition towards a healthy and sustainable food system at local level: the Brussels City case

Abstract Despite the European Union’s political efforts to promote healthier and more sustainable food systems, challenges persist, with these systems not yet achieving sustainability and still exacerbating health inequalities. The EU-funded FEAST project aims to catalyse this transition through different actions including by focusing on mapping factors shaping food environments in five European cities, including Brussels. This study focuses on mapping existing policies and initiatives by the city government supporting healthier and more sustainable food systems in Brussels City. Policies were then categorized based on Food-EPI domains, types of policies (i.e. financial incentive) and role of the government (i.e. policy development). Results indicated that while Brussels City has a clear strategy (Good Food Strategy) and objectives (Climate Action Plan) to support the transition, there is a notable emphasis on sustainability over health which could be explained by the absence of a dedicated public health expert in the local government. While there are numerous policies focused on improving the school environment (i.e. healthy and sustainable canteens, banned sodas and snack provision, forbidden advertising inside and nearby of unhealthy foods), there is a lack of corresponding measures for public spaces. Furthermore legislative policies are practically inexistent possibly due to jurisdictional barriers from higher governmental levels. Stakeholder interviews will be conducted in the next phase to delve deeper into these issues and to explore potential facilitators and barriers faced in the development and implementation process of these policies. Overall, this research sheds light on the policy landscape in Brussels City, highlighting both progress, areas for improvement and policy gaps in advancing towards healthier and more sustainable food systems. Key messages • Despite EU political efforts to prioritise more sustainable food systems, relevant barriers are still present at local level in Brussels City, hampering the development and implementation of policies. • In Brussels relevant policies for healthier and more sustainable food systems have been implemented, especially in the school environment, but health seems to be overshadowed by sustainability.

Working from everywhere: The future of work and inclusive organizational behavior (IOB)

SummaryThe rapid digitalization of work, accelerated by the COVID‐19 pandemic, has fundamentally transformed organizational behavior and necessitated a reconceptualization of inclusion in virtual spaces. This editorial synthesizes six groundbreaking studies that advance our understanding of inclusive organizational behavior (IOB) in digital contexts. Drawing on these contributions, we propose a novel, multilevel framework for digital IOB that integrates individual, group, and organizational factors shaping inclusive experiences in virtual and hybrid work arrangements. Key themes emerging from the studies include (1) reconceptualizing inclusion for digital contexts, (2) multilevel dynamics of digital inclusion, and (3) technology as both enabler and barrier to inclusion. Our framework conceptualizes digital IOB as arising from complex interactions between individual, group, and organizational factors, mediated and moderated by technological infrastructures and practices. We discuss theoretical and practical implications, highlighting the need for holistic, systemic approaches to fostering digital inclusion and outlining promising avenues for future research in this critical area.

Understanding Factors Affecting Inclusions of Students with Disabilities in Higher Education: A Study among Non-Disabled University Students

Inclusive education for people with disabilities is gaining importance globally, with improving factors that support the inclusion of students with disabilities in higher education as a key objective. This study explores how societal and environmental factors shape perceptions of disability, rather than viewing it solely as an individual limitation. A non-probability convenience sampling method was employed, involving 279 university students from six different faculties. Data were analyzed through frequency distribution and SPSS to examine the attitudes of non-disabled students toward the inclusion of their disabled peers in higher education. The findings reveal that environmental barriers are strongly associated with the attitudes of non-disabled students toward their peers with disabilities (r = .693, p < .01), indicating that these barriers significantly impact how students perceive and interact with those who have impairments. The non-disabled students identified specific environmental factors that either support or hinder the inclusion of disabled students in university settings. This research highlights the need for addressing environmental obstacles to foster a more inclusive and supportive educational environment for all students.

Longing for a Broken Politics to Be Healed A Book Symposium of Michael Wear’s The Spirit of Our Politics

Michael's Wear's 2024 book, The Spirit of Our Politics, inaugurates a unique and meaty symposium in the JSFSC that focuses on practical theologies of spiritual formation issues of public life. Wear's book delivers a discerning application of Dallas Willard's perspective to areas of political life. Symposium contributors include Michael Wear, Todd Hunter, Kyle David Bennet, Kaitlyn Schiess, and Chine McDonald. Guest Editor Joseph E. Gorra introduces the symposium, offering context on Wear, his book, and a call for further contributions in his Afterword. After Wear's book précis, Hunter, Bennett, and Schiess weave important themes of pneumatology, family spirituality, and ecclesiology as practitioner factors shaping the vitality of a Christian spiritual formation of public life. McDonald underscores the importance of incarnation, imagination, and invitation when leading institutions of public life. All contributors underscore how spiritual formation is central to civic renewal. Michael Wear's response integrates important themes among the papers, underscoring that Christian spiritual formation does not take place in isolation from actual contexts of public life.

Relationships between capnogram parameters by mainstream and sidestream techniques at different breathing frequencies

Capnography, routinely used in operating rooms and intensive care units, reveals essential information on lung ventilation and ventilation–perfusion matching. Mainstream capnography directly measures CO2 in the breathing circuit for accurate analysis and is considered a reference technique. Sidestream capnography, however, analyzes gas away from the patient leading to potentially less accurate measures. While these methodological differences impact the capnogram indices in mechanically ventilated patients, such assessments during spontaneous breathing are essentially lacking. Accordingly, we aimed to compare mainstream and sidestream capnography in spontaneously breathing subjects, focusing on differences in capnogram shape and dead space indices at various respiratory rates. Simultaneous mainstream and sidestream time and volumetric capnography were performed on spontaneously breathing adults (n = 35). Measurements were performed during controlled low (10/min), medium (12/min), and high (20/min) breathing rates as a challenge. Correlation and Bland–Altman analyses were used to assess trends and agreements between time and volumetric capnography indices obtained by the mainstream and sidestream techniques, including end-tidal CO2 (ETCO2), shape factors reflecting the slopes of phases 2 and 3, and anatomical and physiological dead space fractions. ETCO2 and physiological dead space measured by mainstream and sidestream techniques showed excellent correlations (r > 0.90, p < 0.001 for all breathing rates) and agreements. While strong correlations and moderate agreements were evidenced in the parameters reflecting the late phase of expiration (phase 3 slope and exhaled CO2 volume), these relationships were weaker for indices related to the early phase of expiration (phase 2 slope, anatomical dead space). Changing breathing frequency caused significant alterations in all capnography parameters, which were detectable by both mainstream and sidestream techniques. Sidestream capnography cannot substitute the more accurate mainstream technique for measuring the absolute values of shape factors and ventilation dead space fractions. However, sidestream capnography is also able to detect and track changes in uneven alveolar emptying, ventilation–perfusion matching and ventilation dead space fraction in spontaneously breathing subjects.

Rehabilitation exoskeleton system with bidirectional virtual reality feedback training strategy

AbstractVirtual reality (VR) technology revitalises rehabilitation training by creating rich, interactive virtual rehabilitation scenes and tasks that deeply engage patients. Robotics with immersive VR environments have the potential to significantly enhance the sense of immersion for patients during training. This paper proposes a rehabilitation robot system. The system integrates a VR environment, the exoskeleton entity, and research on rehabilitation assessment metrics derived from surface electromyographic signal (sEMG). Employing more realistic and engaging virtual stimuli, this method guides patients to actively participate, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of neural connection reconstruction—an essential aspect of rehabilitation. Furthermore, this study introduces a muscle activation model that merges linear and non‐linear states of muscle, avoiding the impact of non‐linear shape factors on model accuracy present in traditional models. A muscle strength assessment model based on optimised generalised regression (WOA‐GRNN) is also proposed, with a root mean square error of 0.017,347 and a mean absolute percentage error of 1.2461%, serving as critical assessment indicators for the effectiveness of rehabilitation. Finally, the system is preliminarily applied in human movement experiments, validating the practicality and potential effectiveness of VR‐centred rehabilitation strategies in medical recovery.

Lessons from long‐term research: Diptera species turnover and dominance shifts with respect to climate‐driven changes

Abstract The diverse pressures of climate change have influenced many habitats, especially freshwater ones, due to their greater sensitivity to stressors. Aquatic Diptera make up more than 50% off all aquatic insect species described, which makes them an ideal group to monitor changing climate as their diverse assemblages can reflect functions within the entire community. The aim of this research was to identify variations in the aquatic dipteran community during a 15‐year period at a tufa barrier in a karst barrage lake system and to determine the environmental factors that have the highest influence on this community. We analysed monthly data collected between 2007 and 2021, when we collected adult specimens using 6 pyramid‐type emergence traps. In total, 167 taxa from 13 different families were gathered. NMDS based on Bray–Curtis similarity analysis amongst assemblages revealed the segregation of samples based on different current velocities and substrates, indicating the importance of microhabitats in dipteran community structuring. Dipteran taxa indicative of specific 5‐year time periods within the research were identified and were associated with changes in environmental conditions especially discharge. The threshold indicator taxa analysis revealed specific species' responses to changing discharge rates. The study shows that discharge rate, not water temperature, is the critical factor shaping dipteran composition, whether by removing or adding taxa to the community. Species turnover showed an overall decrease in species numbers, that is, species richness, throughout the research period. We conclude that changes in the dipteran community, because of the vast functional traits, niches, adaptations and species diversity of the group, are not visible when analysing just the diversity indices. When determining environmental influence on the community in long‐term research, they should be combined with other data such as the overall abundance, the total number of species, as well as the species turnover.

FOSTERING USER INVOLVEMENT IN COLLABORATIVE INNOVATION SPACES: INSIGHTS FROM LIVING LABS

Innovation studies have shown a growing interest in collaborative approaches, particularly user co-creation within innovation spaces. This qualitative study delves into the intricate dynamics of user involvement in fostering user-centric innovation within living labs. Through interviews with 22 informants across 14 countries from 2021 to 2022, this study presents a comprehensive framework outlining four pivotal phases of involvement: recruitment, motivation, co-creation, and relation. Through a nuanced exploration of the critical factors shaping each, the research illuminates ongoing debates and consensus surrounding the orchestration of the co-creation process and the vital role of living labs in cultivating innovations. By offering insights into the co-creation process with users, the study underscores the approaches adopted by living labs to achieve sustainable outcomes in user-centric innovation. These findings provide valuable knowledge that can aid practitioners in navigating challenges related to user engagement, thereby advancing user-centric innovation initiatives.