bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Classification of Blood Cells and Tumor Cells Using Label-Free Ultrasound and Photoacoustics
Authors: Strohm Eric M. , Kolios Michael C.
Published: November 2024

A label-free method that can identify cells in a blood sample using high frequency photoacoustic and ultrasound signals is demonstrated. When the wavelength of the ultrasound or photoacoustic wave is similar to the size of a single cell (frequencies of 100-500 MHz), unique periodic features occur within the ultrasound and photoacoustic power spectrum that depend on the cell size, structure, and morphology. These spectral features can be used to identify different cell types present in blood, such as red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs), and circulating tumor cells. Circulating melanoma cells are ideal for photoacoustic detection due to their endogenous optical absorption properties. Using a 532 nm pulsed laser and a 375 MHz transducer, the ultrasound and photoacoustic signals from RBCs, WBCs, and melanoma cells were individually measured in an acoustic microscope to examine how the signals change between cell types. A photoacoustic and ultrasound signal was detected from RBCs and melanoma cells; only an ultrasound signal was detected from WBCs. The different cell types were distinctly separated using the ultrasound and photoacoustic signal amplitude and power spectral periodicity. The size of each cell was also estimated from the spectral periodicity. For the first time, sound waves generated using pulse-echo ultrasound and photoacoustics have been used to identify and size single cells, with applications toward counting and identifying cells, including circulating melanoma cells.
Children, young people and parent engagement in health intervention design and implementation: A scoping review
Authors: Crowther Daniel , McCulloch Holly , Wong Helen , Mackay Rebecca , Johnson Catie , Chorney Jill , Ritchie Krista , Lawrence Logan , Bishop Andrea , Helwig Melissa , Curran Janet
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Engaging children and young people (CYP) with and without their parents in health research has the potential to improve the development and implementation of health interventions. However, to our knowledge, the scope of engagement activities used with this population and barriers to their engagement is unknown. The objective of this review was to identify and describe CYP engagement with and without their parents in the development and/or implementation of health interventions.

Methods

This scoping review included any primary research studies reporting on engaging CYP, with or without parents, in the design and/or implementation of health interventions. Healthcare professionals had to be involved over the course of the study and the study had to take place in either community, primary or tertiary care settings. The following databases were searched in May 2017, May 2020 and June 2021: Medline (OVID), CINAHL (EBSCO) and Embase (Elsevier). Two independent reviewers screened titles, abstracts and full-text articles and used a previously piloted extraction form to extract and summarize information from the included articles.

Results

Twenty-eight articles discussing twenty-four studies were included. CYP engagement throughout the research cycle was limited. There were no observed differences in the reported presence of engagement, types of interventions or outcomes of engagement between studies engaging CYP or CYP and parents. Studies engaging CYP and parents contained limited information on how these relationships affected outcomes of engagement. Engagement was enabled primarily by the maintenance of resources and relationships among stakeholders.

Conclusions

Although CYP engagement often influenced health intervention and implementation design, they are inconsistently engaged across the research cycle. It is unclear whether parental involvement enhances CYP engagement. Future research should consider reporting guidelines to clarify the level of CYP and/or parent engagement, and enhance CYP engagement by fostering synergistic and sustainable partnerships with key stakeholders.
Exploring parity in female authorship of pharmacoepidemiology articles: A case study of the Canadian Network for Observational Drug Effect Studies and its citing articles
Authors: Sketris Ingrid S. , Traynor Robyn L. , Helwig Melissa , Burland Elaine , Stewart Samuel A
Published: November 2024

 

Purpose

The Canadian Network for Observational Drug Effect Studies (CNODES) studies the benefits and risks of post-market drugs and evaluates its research mobilization efforts for accountability, demonstrating value, and learning. As part of these evaluation efforts, and acknowledging gender disparity in authorship across many academic disciplines, CNODES examined the relationship between gender and authorship in its own journal articles and the literature citing them.

Methods

CNODES articles (published 2012–2017) and all citing articles were identified and extracted using Scopus. Scopus author IDs were used to extract full names and a web service (www.genderapi.com) was used to estimate gender, converting all probabilities <80% to “indeterminate.” T-tests and visualizations were used to compare the proportion of females between CNODES and the citing literature.

Results

Twenty-eight CNODES articles and 463 citing articles were identified. The mean number of authors per article was 9.5 in CNODES articles and 5.7 in the citing literature. CNODES articles had a female authorship rate of 36%, compared to 29% in the citing literature (7% difference, 95% CI: [1%, 13%]). There were no female authors in 14% of CNODES articles versus 36% of the citing literature. Women were first authors in 25% and corresponding authors in 14% of CNODES articles.

Conclusions

This analysis provides a benchmark and method to monitor progress in female parity in pharmacoepidemiology authorship. Further work is needed to determine and address barriers and facilitators to women's recruitment and advancement in the field of pharmacoepidemiology.
The Obsolescence of Labour? Philosophical-Political Reflections on Contemporary Manifestations of Labour
Authors: Ingarra Nicolò Maria
Published: November 2024

The coordinates of contemporary labour are in continuous and rapid transformation. On the one hand, precariousness and flexibility are watchwords in today’s labour policies. On the other hand, the encroachment of working time into living time, as well as the accelerated platformisation and automation of workplaces, leads us to reflect on the issue of human dignity and freedom. Already in the middle of the last century, the philosopher of technique Günther Anders questioned whether the obsolescence of the human being does also concern the obsolescence of labour. In fact, he had already foreseen how contemporary workers are unfree not only because they are excluded from the ownership of “their” means of production or products, but because they do not overlook the whole of the production context in which they are integrated. At the same time, workers do not know the end product and its meaning - these remain “transcendent” issues. Against this background, we intend to discuss the extent to which the traditional concept of labour is obsolete through the analysis of its fundamental coordinates: space, time and relations. The main purpose will be to highlight risks and perplexities regarding the new dimension of labour. This will be done through the interpretative lens of political philosophy but without excluding transdisciplinary and intersectional insights.
Profile of Students and Their Study Strategies – A Diagnosis of the Strengths and Weaknesses of a Student Group in Relation to the Use of Study Strategies
Authors: Goulão Maria Fátima
Published: November 2024

In our study, we aim to define the profile of a group of students enrolled in the first year of an online undergraduate programme. Our sample consists of 166 students of both genders, with an average age of 42 years. We used a 35-item questionnaire as a data collection instrument, which enabled us to analyse the behaviour of these students. Statistical analysis of the questionnaire indicates a high level of internal consistency. The responses reveal strong confidence in their learning, realistic goal setting, self-awareness, and careful time management, with students planning tasks and study time in advance when preparing for assessments. The less positive aspect identified is the difficulty of studying with others or in groups. In summary, by developing and implementing study strategies tailored to the online context, students can maximise their learning, engagement, and academic success, as well as further develop their strategies for self-regulated learning.
The Role of Sport in Small Towns: A Catalyst for Community, Health, and Economic Growth
Authors:   University of Physical Education, Krakow, Poland., Popek Adam
Published: November 2024

This article explores the multifaceted role of sport in small towns, focusing on its contributions to
community cohesion, public health, and local economic development. Through case studies and
empirical analysis, it examines how organized sports and recreational activities serve as a unifying
force, fostering social connections and enhancing civic pride. The research highlights the health benefits
of increased physical activity, which not only improves individual well-being but also reduces healthcare
burdens. Additionally, the article investigates the economic impact of sports events and facilities, which
stimulate local businesses, tourism, and job creation. The findings underscore the potential of sports
as a catalyst for holistic growth in small towns, positioning it as a key driver in building resilient and
thriving communitie
Patients with Severe Obesity and Hypertension- Antihypertensive Treatment Before and After Bariatric Surgery-Five Years of Follow-Up
Authors:   Department of Cardiology and Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, ul., Moczulska Beata , Osowiecka Karolina ,   Department of Psychology and Sociology of Health and Public Health, School of Public Health, University of Warmia and, Gromadziński Leszek ,   Department of Cardiology and Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, ul.
Published: November 2024

Background: Hypertension is the most common comorbidity associated with obesity. Hypertension
can be treated with antihypertensive drugs, but weight loss can also lower BP, reducing the need for
antihypertensive medication. Bariatric surgery is the most effective treatment for patients with severe
obesity.
Material and methods: The study group consisted of 30 obese patients with hypertension or newly
diagnosed hypertension. Before laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) each patient was precisely
interviewed, taking into account the antihypertensive drugs taken. We divided drugs into groups: betablockers (BBs), angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs), angiotensin II receptor blockers
(ARBs), calcium channel blockers (CCBs), diuretics: thiazide diuretics / thiazide-like diuretics (TDs),
loop diuretics (LDs), mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRAs) and others: centrally acting drugs
and alpha-blockers (ABs). Each patient had ABPM. Actually BMI and antihypertensive treatment was
assessed 5 years after LSG.
Results: The study group consisted of 30 patients with severe obesity (BMI≥40kg/m2) with an average
age of 42.5 years (25-69), including 11 males and 19 females.17 of patients had been previously
diagnosed and treated hypertension,13 had been newly diagnosed hypertension. The decrease in the
frequency of ACEIs use before and after SLG was significant observed (from 83% to 24%,p<0.001),
CCBs (from 45% to 14%, p=0.008), TDs (from 31% to 3.5%, p=0.013).The decrease of body mass
and BMI before and after SLG was significant(from 135kg to 100kg,p<0.001; 47.3 to 33.8, p<0.001).
Antihypertensive medication was discontinued in a large proportion of patients after surgery, and the
mean number of antihypertensive medications decreased. Bariatric procedures have strong evidence of
efficacy and safety.
Conclusions: Patients with severe obesity and hypertension should be offered surgical weight loss
earlier in their disease process
‘You seem a very intelligent man, and can speak English’: Gaels and Government Inquiries in the Later Nineteenth Century
Authors: Kidd Sheila M.
Published: November 2024

The Napier Commission (1883), with its focus on the condition of the crofting communities in the Highlands and Islands of Scotland, enjoys a particularly prominent status within the historiography due in large part to the voluminous evidence it collected from a cross spectrum of Highland society. This article considers the ways in which Gaelic speakers were accommodated by this commission and by the later Deer Forest Commission (1893–4), while the language in which many of the witnesses delivered their testimony was simultaneously invisibilised by the official, published evidence. The approaches of governmental evidence-gathering from earlier in the century are considered before focusing on these two commissions which afforded Gaelic speakers the opportunity, on an unprecedented scale, to address these inquiries in their native language. The hazy figure of the interpreter is considered, supplemented by evidence from the contemporary press, as are the ways in which this interpreting process was handled and some of the challenges it presented for witnesses and commissioners. This raises questions relating to the wider linguistic landscape of the nineteenth-century Highlands, to the power dynamic between Gaelic and English speakers and to the ways in which this language barrier was negotiated.
Can we improve the clinical and research utility of staging frameworks for youth mental health?
Authors: Scott Jan
Published: November 2024

Globally, 75% of depressive, bipolar, and psychotic disorders emerge by age 25. These disorders are often preceded by non-specific symptoms or attenuated clinical syndromes and help-seeking youth typically present with co-occurring mental disorders and/or physical comorbidities. This has led many youth mental health services to adopt trans-diagnostic clinical staging models as these offer a framework for classifying and understanding the multi-dimensional and dynamic nature of emerging mental disorders and inform the selection of treatment interventions. However, given evidence of ongoing challenges in applying trans-diagnostic staging frameworks in research and clinical practice we suggest some refinements to the model to enhance reliability, consistent recording and utility. The key proposal is to introduce two additional concepts namely within stage heterogeneity and stage modifiers, with the latter categorized into factors associated with Progression (potential predictors of stage transition and illness trajectories) and Extension (characteristics that add complexity to selection of current treatments).
Reviving Local Heritage: Leadership in Building a Culture of Quality
Authors: Daryanto Daryanto , Carwa Carwa , Astuti Ida Yuli , Munawar Aris , Kholisoh Nuryani Lilis
Published: November 2024

This study analyzes leadership preferences in building a quality culture based on local wisdom in schools. The research method used is a qualitative case study approach involving in-depth interviews, participant observation, and document analysis. The data analysis technique used is thematic analysis, which includes systematic data coding, grouping similar codes, and drawing conclusions based on identified themes. The study results indicate that inclusive and supportive leadership strategies and the integration of local wisdom in teaching materials have succeeded in increasing student engagement in learning and strengthening their character. In addition, the findings show that the support of the principal in the form of policies and initiatives plays an essential role in the successful implementation of local wisdom-based programs. The implication of this study is the importance of school leadership in encouraging and supporting local culture-based programs to achieve more holistic and sustainable education.
Enhancing Elementary Students' Character through Aswaja Values: The Contribution of Islamic Religious Education Teachers
Authors: Yusuf Muhammad , Rahman Kholilur , Hidayah Fathi
Published: November 2024

This study explores the role of Islamic Religious Education (PAI) teachers in fostering the values of Ahlus Sunnah wal Jamaah (Aswaja) to form a good and polite character in students at school. This is based on the need for character education amidst the strong influence of technology in the lives of elementary school students today. The research method used is a qualitative approach with a case study design involving direct observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation analysis in the school environment. Data analysis techniques include data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing to process and analyze the collected data systematically. The results of the study show that the application of Aswaja values by PAI teachers has a positive impact on developing students' character, especially in terms of simplicity, patience, honesty, and empathy. The contribution of this research is to enrich the understanding of the strategic role of PAI teachers in supporting the formation of students' character, as well as provide recommendations for developing a value-based curriculum and better collaboration between schools, parents, and communities in supporting character education. This research implies the need for continuous teacher training and the integration of character education into the curriculum to address modern technological influences.
Development and characterization of a novel injectable thyroid extracellular matrix hydrogel for enhanced thyroid tissue engineering applications
Authors: Zhang Liang , Long Houlong , Zhang Peng , Liu Bin , Li Shuheng , Sun Rong , Diao Tongmei , Li Feng
Published: November 2024

Hypothyroidism, a condition characterized by decreased synthesis and secretion of thyroid hormones, significantly impacts intellectual development and physical growth. Current treatments, including hormone replacement therapy and thyroid transplantation, have limitations due to issues like hormone dosage control and immune rejection. Tissue engineering presents a potential solution by combining cells and biomaterials to construct engineered thyroid tissue. This study focuses on the development and characterization of a novel 3D injectable hydrogel derived from thyroid extracellular matrix (TEM) for thyroid tissue engineering. TEM hydrogels were prepared through decellularization of rat thyroid tissue, followed by extensive physicochemical and mechanical property evaluations. The TEM hydrogels exhibited properties similar to natural thyroid tissue, including high biocompatibility and a complex 3D ultrastructure. Thyroid hormone-secreting cells cultured in TEM hydrogels demonstrated superior viability, hormone secretion, and thyroid-related gene expression compared to those in traditional type I collagen hydrogels. The study also confirmed the significant retention of key growth factors and ECM proteins within the TEM hydrogels. The results indicate that TEM hydrogels can provide a biomimetic microenvironment, promoting the long-term survival and function of thyroid cells, thus holding great promise for the treatment of hypothyroidism. This research contributes a potential new avenue for thyroid tissue engineering, offering a promising alternative for hypothyroidism treatment.
Inventory of transitions on sea dikes at the German coast: spatial analysis, design and damages
Authors: Schulte Ina , Rodermund Henrike , Selvam Harish , Becker Jessica , Schweiger Constantin , Schürenkamp David , Goseberg Nils , Schüttrumpf Holger
Published: November 2024

German coastal areas are often protected from flood events by a primary sea dike line of more than 1,200 km. Many transition areas, such as the change of surface covering materials and other dike elements such as stairs, fences, or ramps at intermittent locations, characterize the stretch of this sea dike line. During storm surges and wave overtopping, the onset of damage, especially dike cover erosion, is often initiated at these transitions due to locally disturbed flow characteristics, increased loads, and reduced strength at the interface. An in-depth understanding of damage initiation and building stock conditions along coastlines as a foundational element of a flood cycle is essential in order to accurately assess existing defense structures, both deterministically and probabilistically. Thus, the present study is motivated to examine the variety of transition areas on the sea dikes along the German coasts, for further assessment of probability of their damage and failure. A novel remote inventory was elaborated manually, based on satellite images for a length of 998 km along the German North Sea and 123 km along the German Baltic Sea coast and estuaries, and it shows the spatial distribution and frequency of such transitions on sea dikes. During additional on-site investigations at different locations at the coast, detailed information about design variants of dike elements as well as damage to transitions were recorded and reported systematically. The results of the on-site investigations allow the development of a damage catalog in relation to transitions and the validation and verification of the remote inventory. By categorizing and spatially analyzing a large number of transitions (n ≈ 18,300) and damages along the coast, particularly vulnerable transitions and hot spots of loading can be further investigated regarding the flow-structure-soil interaction. Through this, structural layouts and material combinations can be optimized for the design of sea dikes.
Historical review of mixed approach to passive damper optimization for building structures under earthquake loading
Authors: Takewaki Izuru
Published: November 2024

Passive dampers play a key role in the smart and reliable design of building structures under uncertain earthquake loading. Passive dampers enable structural designers to enhance the potential of their structural design techniques and acquire the powerful methodologies for more reliable structures under unpredictable uncertainties. While there exist many review articles on optimization of passive dampers, this review is aimed at introducing a new perspective that most passive damper algorithms can be classified based on the combination of several component approaches with different objectives. Mixed approaches considering input uncertainties are particularly highlighted. Research focused on comparison among different optimization methods is also investigated.
Climate-driven distributional shifts in Chocó endemic birds of southwest Colombia
Authors: Mota Flávio M. M. , Kittelberger Kyle D. , Flórez-Paí Cristian , Şekercioğlu Çağan H.
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Climate change poses a significant threat to bird communities, especially forest-dwelling and narrowly distributed species, which are expected to experience severe range contractions and higher extinction risks compared to widely distributed and open-area species. The Chocó region in southwestern Colombia, known for its rich bird endemism, is particularly vulnerable.

Methods

We analyzed potential distribution shifts for 27 endemic and near-endemic bird species in the Chocó region using eBird occurrence records and climate projections. We modeled species distributions under low and high greenhouse gas emission scenarios for 2050 and 2070, comparing these projected distributions to current forested and protected areas to evaluate future conservation needs.

Results

Our findings indicate that nearly all species are projected to lose climate-suitable areas under at least one future scenario, resulting in a regional decline in species richness. Changes in species richness are most pronounced near the Colombia-Ecuador border, suggesting a shift to higher elevations. Notably, the Scarlet-and-white Tanager (Chrysothlypis salmoni) is predicted to suffer the greatest losses in climate-suitable area, both within protected and forested regions.

Discussion

These results highlight the urgency of expanding the protected area network and conserving key forested regions to help species adapt to climate change. By providing projected distribution maps and potential range shifts, our study underscores the importance of modeling future distributions to support conservation strategies for at-risk species and the ecological services they provide in tropical montane regions.
TUM4Health, a holistic student health promotion program. Screening of cardiovascular risk factors in university students
Authors: Haggenmüller Klaus Christian , Reiner Barbara , Oberhoffer Renate Maria , Olson Nils , Weil Jochen , Schulz Thorsten
Published: November 2024

Cardio Vascular risk prevention in Germany has a gap between the ages of 20 and 30 years. We established a program for risk group identification in students and analyzed the screenings according to the ACCF/AHA Stages and NYHA functional classification. In a cross-sectional design, 596 participants completed a sports medical and motor performance check-up. We found 6% of the female subgroup in an underweight status. Low blood pressure in 5% of the male and 10% of the female group. Elevated blood pressure in 27% of the male and 12% of the female subgroup. According to ACCF/AHA classification, a percentage of 25.7% were clustered in Stage A, defined as having a high risk for heart failure (HF). Stage B consisted of participants with structural heart disease but without symptoms of HF, the prevalence of this group was 3.2%. In Stage C we assigned 0.7%, respectively four participants, with structural heart disease and prior symptoms (NYHA Stage C1 and C2). Screenings sensitize CV risk factors and detect HF risks at an early age; for freshmen at universities it seems to be the perfect time and place for secondary prevention. The gap in risk prevention can be closed, at least for students, who are an economically important target group. Moreover, we found a higher prevalence of Stage C in the sports-related study population compared to other studies. The risk for HF could be elevated in sports-related faculties. The high prevalence of underweight participants, especially in the female subgroup could also be a specific problem in sports-related groups. Even if not related to CV risks, the awareness of being underweight in combination with offers for a lifestyle change can prevent risks in the future. The same applies to low blood pressure in the female subgroup.
Lactate metabolism and lactylation in cardiovascular disease: novel mechanisms and therapeutic targets
Authors: Zhang Han , Zhao Jiulu , Yu Jizhang , Zhang Xi , Ran Shuan , Wang Song , Ye Weicong , Luo Zilong , Li Xiaohan , Hao Yanglin , Zong Junjie , Li Ran , Lai Longyong , Zheng Kexiao , Huang Pinyan , Zhou Cheng , Wu Jie , Li Yuan , Xia Jiahong
Published: November 2024

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is responsible for approximately 30% of annual global mortality rates, yet existing treatments for this condition are considered less than ideal. Despite being previously overlooked, lactate, a byproduct of glycolysis, is now acknowledged for its crucial role in the cellular functions of the cardiovascular system. Recent studies have shown that lactate influences the proliferation, differentiation, and activation of immune cells through its modulation of post-translational protein modifications, thereby affecting the development and prognosis of cardiovascular disease. Consequently, there has been a notable increase in interest towards drug targets targeting lactylation in immune cells, prompting further exploration. In light of the swift advancements in this domain, this review article is dedicated to examining lactylation in cardiovascular disease and potential drug targets for regulating lactylation, with the aim of enhancing comprehension of this intricate field.
Establishing trust in artificial intelligence-driven autonomous healthcare systems: an expert-guided framework
Authors: Alelyani Turki
Published: November 2024

The increasing prevalence of Autonomous Systems (AS) powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI) in society and their expanding role in ensuring safety necessitate the assessment of their trustworthiness. The verification and development community faces the challenge of evaluating the trustworthiness of AI-powered AS in a comprehensive and objective manner. To address this challenge, this study conducts a semi-structured interview with experts to gather their insights and perspectives on the trustworthiness of AI-powered autonomous systems in healthcare. By integrating the expert insights, a comprehensive framework is proposed for assessing the trustworthiness of AI-powered autonomous systems in the domain of healthcare. This framework is designed to contribute to the advancement of trustworthiness assessment practices in the field of AI and autonomous systems, fostering greater confidence in their deployment in healthcare settings.
Correlation analysis and recurrence evaluation system for patients with recurrent hepatolithiasis: a multicentre retrospective study
Authors: Li Zihan , Zhang Yibo , Chen Zixiang , Chen Jiangming , Hou Hui , Wang Cheng , Lu Zheng , Wang Xiaoming , Geng Xiaoping , Liu Fubao
Published: November 2024

Background

Methods for accurately predicting the prognosis of patients with recurrent hepatolithiasis (RH) after biliary surgery are lacking. This study aimed to develop a model that dynamically predicts the risk of hepatolithiasis recurrence using a machine-learning (ML) approach based on multiple clinical high-order correlation data.

Materials and methods

Data from patients with RH who underwent surgery at five centres between January 2015 and December 2020 were collected and divided into training and testing sets. Nine predictive models, which we named the Correlation Analysis and Recurrence Evaluation System (CARES), were developed and compared using machine learning (ML) methods to predict the patients’ dynamic recurrence risk within 5 post-operative years. We adopted a k-fold cross validation with k = 10 and tested model performance on a separate testing set. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was used to evaluate the performance of the models, and the significance and direction of each predictive variable were interpreted and justified based on Shapley Additive Explanations.

Results

Models based on ML methods outperformed those based on traditional regression analysis in predicting the recurrent risk of patients with RH, with Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) and Light Gradient Boosting Machine (LightGBM) showing the best performance, both yielding an AUC (Area Under the receiver operating characteristic Curve) of∼0.9 or higher at predictions. These models were proved to have even better performance on testing sets than in a 10-fold cross validation, indicating that the model was not overfitted. The SHAP method revealed that immediate stone clearance, final stone clearance, number of previous surgeries, and preoperative CA19-9 index were the most important predictors of recurrence after reoperation in RH patients. An online version of the CARES model was implemented.

Conclusion

The CARES model was firstly developed based on ML methods and further encapsulated into an online version for predicting the recurrence of patients with RH after hepatectomy, which can guide clinical decision-making and personalised postoperative surveillance.
Entropic control on the desorption of oil molecular droplets in water from kerogen surface
Authors: Zhang Zelong , Stephens Adrienne , Wang Jianwei
Published: November 2024

Understanding the thermodynamics of interfacial interactions between oil and kerogen is imperative for developing technologies aimed at improving hydrocarbon recovery in reservoirs, especially in unconventional shale, which retains abundant hydrocarbons in a non-porous medium. The temperature effect on the interactions of a light oil molecular cluster with kerogen was investigated using molecular dynamics simulation. Non-polar and polar light oil droplets were modeled with clusters of 30 octane molecules and 30 octanethiol molecules in water, respectively. Kerogen was modeled with a molecular fragment from a mature type II kerogen. The potential of mean force calculations was performed at constant volume and temperature via umbrella sampling at temperatures in 300–500 K range, comparable to the reservoir temperatures of common shale plays. The results show that the free energy of desorption of oil droplets scales linearly with temperature and has a strong negative temperature dependence, suggesting a significant entropic contribution to the free energy and underscoring the fundamental basis of the thermal stimulation technique for improved oil recovery. The simulations suggest that single molecules cannot represent the interactions of an oil droplet with the kerogen surface. The internal dynamics within the droplets play an important role in the strong temperature dependence of the free energy. The calculated free energy, contact angle, and surface tension of oil droplets are comparable with observations and provide an improved understanding of the interfacial interactions between the multicomponent fluid and kerogen. Such agreement demonstrates the reliability of the method and molecular models for modeling the complex interfacial interaction system. The results present a thermodynamic understanding and molecular details of the temperature effect on the oil interactions with kerogen, providing valuable insight into strategies for unconventional oil recovery.
Study on rainfall infiltration characteristics and instability mechanism of a lateritic soil landslide in Yunnan, China
Authors: Gu Chuan , Chen Liang , Zuo Weizhong , Li Weile , Man Hao , Lu Hanyu , Ji Feng
Published: November 2024

Introduction

The engineering geological characteristics of Yunnan’s lateritic soil are quite unique, making it prone to shallow group landslides under rainfall conditions. This study focused on an old lateritic soil landslide as a case study.

Methods

Soil column ponding infiltration experiment was conducted to investigate the infiltration behavior of the lateritic soil. Numerical simulation software was employed to analyze the rainfall-induced seepage characteristics of the landslide, and a comprehensive assessment of the failure mechanisms of the lateritic soil landslide was conducted.

Results

The study findings are as follows: (1) During water infiltration, the infiltration time curve of the lateritic soil column showed a parabolic growth trend. The migration rate of the wetting front rapidly decreased from 0.15 to 0.2 cm/min to 0.1 cm/min and then stabilized at approximately 0.04 cm/min. (2) Long-term heavy rainfall is the condition for the formation of this old lateritic soil landslide. By coupling the seepage process, the stability coefficient of the lateritic soil slope was calculated, revealing that the instability rainfall threshold of the slope under prolonged rainfall conditions is generally 120 mm/d. (3) The main changes in the seepage field occurred in the shallow soil layer. In the later stages of rainfall, the infiltration rate of the slope was controlled by the permeability coefficient of the lateritic soil. As the rainfall intensity increased, the depth of rainfall impact increased, and the pore water pressure in the shallow soil layer tended to gradually increase and then stabilize under different rainfall intensities. (4) Under long-term rainfall conditions, the volumetric water content of the soil at the toe of the lateritic soil slope first peaked. After the rainfall ended, moisture in the slope continued to migrate to the toe, keeping the soil at the toe in a saturated state. (5) The formation and evolution of this lateritic soil landslide could be divided into five stages: initial natural stage, rainfall infiltration-crack expansion, shallow creep-progressive collapse of the front edge, sliding surface penetration-overall instability, and landslide braking accumulation.

Conclusion

The research results provide significant theoretical guidance and practical implications for understanding the causes and prevention of lateritic soil landslides in similar areas.
Comparing different types of instructional videos in a flipped proof-based classroom
Authors: Wirth Laura , Kirsten Katharina , Serpé Christian , Greefrath Gilbert
Published: November 2024

Background

Proofs are a key component in undergraduate mathematics, but understanding presented proofs and constructing proofs is a challenge for many students. Flipped undergraduate mathematics classrooms often employ instructional videos, yet little is known about their potential to help students understand and construct proofs.

Objective

This study investigates the potential of video-based proof presentations on student learning. We compared a video that presented the proof construction process (proof video); a video that heuristically presented the proof construction process, which modeled key decisions and named the phases of proof construction and activities (heuristic proof video); and a video that offered prompts during the proof construction process, where self-explanation prompts guided students through these phases and activities (prompted proof video).

Methods

A between-subjects design was employed, involving 177 mathematics (teacher) students in a first-semester proof-based linear algebra course. Data were collected on students’ comprehension of the presented proof, their knowledge for proof construction, and their evaluative perceptions. Statistical analyses were performed using ANOVA (proof comprehension) and MANOVA (evaluative perceptions) to compare the groups. Qualitative content analysis was employed to identify different facets of knowledge for proof construction and the groups were contrasted using χ2-tests.

Results

We found that independent of the video they watched, students achieved a rather local comprehension of the presented proof. The heuristic proof video showed potential for offering meta-knowledge of how to approach proof construction and knowledge on process-related activities that support individual phases of proof construction but required more time. Yet, while students perceived all videos positively, they liked the heuristic proof video best.

Conclusion

The results provide insights into the design of instructional videos, suggesting that, in the early stages of learning about proofs, a heuristic proof video may help address the challenges students face.
The impact of using artificial intelligence techniques in improving the quality of educational services/case study at the University of Baghdad
Authors: Farhan Neamah Dahash , Sadiq Bareq Habeeb , Zwayyer Mustafa H. , Arnout Boshra A.
Published: November 2024

The utilization of artificial intelligence techniques has garnered significant interest in recent research due to their pivotal role in enhancing the quality of educational offerings. This study investigated the impact of employing artificial intelligence techniques on improving the quality of educational services, as perceived by students enrolled in the College of Pharmacy at the University of Baghdad. The study sample comprised 379 male and female students. A descriptive-analytical approach was used, with a questionnaire as the primary tool for data collection. The findings indicated that the application of artificial intelligence methods was highly effective, and the educational services provided to students were of exceptional quality. The results also showed a strong correlation (correlation coefficient of 0.719) between the use of artificial intelligence techniques and the quality of educational services. This correlation was statistically significant at a confidence level of 99%. The impact of artificial intelligence techniques and their dimensions on the quality of educational services is highly significant at a confidence level of 99%. This suggests that artificial intelligence technologies play a major role in enhancing the quality of educational services. The study emphasizes the importance of creating technologically advanced classrooms equipped with modern devices and equipment to enhance the learning experience and provide an advanced educational environment. It also highlights the significance of effectively addressing students’ complaints and grievances through technical means, such as electronic communication platforms, social media platforms, technical support via the Internet, and smartphone applications. These measures are essential in providing high-quality educational services.
Learning styles vs. virtual education preferences: a cross-sectional study on medical sciences e-students
Authors: Karimian Zahra , Zolfaghari Zahra
Published: November 2024

E-students sometimes feel isolated due to the lack of face-to-face communication with teachers. It is important to pay attention to students’ learning styles and the virtual education methods used by teachers. This study aimed to investigate the preferences of students at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences (SUMS) regarding virtual education and their learning styles. A descriptive survey research was conducted on postgraduate e-students in 2019-2020. A stratified random sampling was performed among 300 students from four virtual master’s programs at SUMS. A total of 180 questionnaires were distributed, and 155 samples completed the questions. The VEPQ questionnaire was used to measure the participants’ virtual education preferences, while the VARK standard questionnaire was utilized to determine their learning styles. The data were analyzed using SPSS 24 software via one-sample T-tests, independent T-tests, and ANOVA tests. All students exhibited a unimodal learning style, with their dominant style being reading/writing (P < 0.05). All educational methods received scores higher than the cut-off point (P < 0.01). Students’ virtual education preferences were as follows: e-content (5.26 ± 0.74), self-directed projects (4.70 ± 0.90), face-to-face modules (4.67 ± 1.14), online presentations (4.32 ± 0.94), and text interaction (3.98 ± 1.18). There was no significant difference in students’ virtual education preferences based on their learning styles (P > 0.05). E-students have different learning styles, but their educational preferences are more influenced by their circumstances. Therefore, the use of multimedia and independent learning is essential for them. It can be stated that “flexibility,” “personalization,” and “independence” are the three main preferences of e-students that should be considered in educational planning.
Causal relationship between hypothyroidism and peripheral neuropathy: a Mendelian randomization study of European ancestry
Authors: Duan Xiping , Zhang Tianchi , Wang Ke
Published: November 2024

Background

Metabolic disorders are significant risk factors for peripheral neuropathy (PN) diseases. However, current clinical observational studies cannot fully determine the causal relationships between hypothyroidism (HT) and PN diseases.

Methods

We performed univariate Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses using single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with hypothyroidism and two diseases clinically presented as HT (autoimmune thyroid disease and benign neoplasm of the pituitary gland and craniopharyngeal duct) as instrumental variables. We selected eight peripheral neuropathy diseases (diabetic neuropathy, nerve root/plexus disorder, carpal tunnel syndrome, polyneuropathies, sciatica with lumbago, trigeminal neuralgia, postherpetic neuralgia, small fiber neuropathy) as outcomes. Genetic data were sourced from authoritative genome-wide association study (GWAS) datasets. We primarily used the inverse variance-weighted (IVW) method and conducted a comprehensive sensitivity analysis to ensure robustness.

Results

The IVW results indicated that HT was significantly associated with an increased risk of diabetic peripheral neuropathy (OR = 1.22, p = 6.49E-05). HT was also significantly linked to nerve root/plexus disorder (OR = 1.04, p = 6.43E-06) and carpal tunnel syndrome (OR = 1.04, p = 0.004), but appeared to be a potential protective factor for polyneuropathies (OR = 0.93, p = 0.0009). Additionally, autoimmune thyroid disease (AITD) was identified as a potential risk factor for carpal tunnel syndrome (OR = 13.79, p = 0.006) and a protective factor for polyneuropathies (OR = 0.0011; p = 4.44E-5).

Conclusions

This study provides genetic evidence supporting potential causal links between hypothyroidism and various peripheral neuropathy diseases.
Gestational diabetes mellitus and linear growth in early childhood
Authors: Chen Zi-Lin , Liu Xin , Tao Min-Yi , Yang Meng-Nan , He Hua , Fang Fang , Wu Ting , Ouyang Fengxiu , Zhang Jun , Li Fei , Luo Zhong-Cheng
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a common pregnancy complication with potential short- and long-term adverse consequences for both mothers and fetuses. It is unclear whether GDM affects linear growth in the offspring; research data are limited and inconsistent.

Methods

In a prospective birth cohort in Shanghai (n=2055 children; 369 born to mothers with GDM). We sought to evaluate the impact of GDM on longitudinal linear growth in early childhood. Length/height was measured in children at birth, 6 weeks, 6 months, 1, 2 and 4 years of age. Multivariate linear regression and generalized estimating equation models were employed to assess the impact of GDM on length/height for age Z score (LAZ/HAZ).

Results

Average birth length was similar in infants of GDM vs. euglycemic mothers. Adjusting for maternal and child characteristics, the children of mothers with GDM had consistently lower LAZ/HAZ compared to children of mothers without diabetes at ages 6 weeks, 6 months, 1, 2 and 4 years. GDM was associated with a 0.12 (95% confidence intervals 0.04-0.21) deficit in LAZ/HAZ in the growth trajectory from birth to age 4 years after adjusting for maternal and child characteristics.

Discussion

GDM was associated with impaired longitudinal linear growth in early childhood. Further studies are warranted to understand the long-term impact on stature and health.