Universidade Nova de Lisboa

In this short note we derive a closed form for the trivariate distribution (position, local time at the origin, and positive occupation time) of the one-dimensional sticky Brownian motion, thereby filling some gaps and fixing some mistakes in the literature.

The principles underpinning Equity, Diversity and Inclusivity (EDI) are seen by many as being essential in contemporary society while others consider it disparaging and claim it can negatively affect meritocracy. In the USA, EDI is referred to as DEI (Diversity, Equity and Inclusivity) and appears to be under attack by the present governmental agencies. Indeed, multinational companies and other governments are responding in various ways, including partial compliance and outright resistance. Wherever one stands politically on the matter, the International Federation of Anatomical Associations (IFAA) has promulgated a strong statement of intent concerning the importance of EDI and the IFAA Executive, through its Federative International Committee for Equality and Diversity in Anatomy (FICEDA), has also provided guidelines for EDI based on the results of a survey of the IFAA's member associations. The findings of that survey are presented in this article and show a clear recognition by virtually all member associations of the importance of EDI, while highlighting some areas lacking diversity and inclusivity.

Dissimilar fusion welding between NiTi shape memory alloy and AlCoCrFeNi 2.1 , eutectic high entropy alloy was achieved using a combination of Nb and Cu interlayers. Both base metals exhibit unique properties that complement each other making them attractive for integration in smart systems. However, direct joining of these materials is not feasible due to the formation of brittle intermetallic compounds that compromise the joint integrity. Thus, to avoid this metallurgical issue dissolution of the Nb and Cu interlayers promoted elemental intermixing and altered solidification pathways, leading to the formation and intensification of topologically close-packed phases. Phase evolution was assessed through thermodynamic CALPHAD simulations and validated using synchrotron X-ray diffraction, while further microstructural characterization employed backscattered electron imaging and energy dispersive spectroscopy. The weld exhibited pronounced spatial heterogeneity, with a peak hardness of 856 HV 0.3 near the NiTi-side interfacial region, consistent with enrichment of TCP phases and Ti-rich intermetallics. Tensile testing showed fracture at an ultimate tensile strength of 372 MPa and a fracture strain of 1.11%, with crack initiation in the hardened interfacial region followed by mixed-mode fracture toward the fusion zone. Although tensile ductility remains limited, the multi-interlayer strategy enabled defect-free joint formation and confined embrittlement to a narrow region compared with direct joining. • Fusion welding of NiTi shape memory alloy with AlCoCrFeNi 2.1 eutectic high entropy alloy is investigated using multiple interlayers to minimize intermetallic formation. • Interlayer dissolution produced a heterogeneous microstructure, promoting the formation of topologically close-packed phases that influenced the mechanical behaviour of the joint. • CALPHAD simulations and synchrotron X-ray diffraction revealed the impact of elemental intermixing and phase evolution across the composite weld zone.

Europe is currently facing novel security threats in many different areas, reinforcing the need for a well prepared and protected health and care workforce to ensure health system resilience and service provision for the population under conditions of a poly-crisis. However, the health and care workforce is weakened by persisting shortages, competency gaps and mismatches, and poor working and mental health conditions. Health and care workers are not prepared for yet another crisis and a systematic strategy is lacking. This policy commentary argues for health and care workforce preparedness and protection as a structural pillar and integral part of an emerging EU health and security landscape, calling for a coherent European Union strategy and highlighting capacities for implementation and co-benefits for democratic societies and economies. Key policy recommendations include: developing a coordinated EU strategy that is capable to protect, prepare and retain health and care workers; closing the competencies gaps to align preparedness for military aggression, cyberattacks, climate change, and new infectious diseases; investing in research and data spaces to strengthen evidence-based information and policy; creating governance structures and building on existing EU programs and budgets to freeing resources for the health and care workforce.