bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Ti/N Ratio on TiN Particles, Microstructures, and Toughness of Heat‐Affected Zone After High Heat Input Welding of the Ca‐Treated Steel Plates
Authors: Chen Yanli , Yang Jian , Zhang Yinhui , Li Tingting , Zhang Yuqi
Published: May 2024

The high heat input welding (HHIW) can greatly enhance the welding efficiency of the steel plates. However, coarse grains and brittle microstructures will be formed in the heat‐affected zone (HAZ) during the HHIW process, which deteriorates the toughness of HAZ. In the present study, the effect of the Ti/N ratio on the size and distribution of titanium nitride (TiN) particles, microstructures, and toughness of HAZ after HHIW of 400 kJ cm−1 is investigated for the Ca‐treated steels with different Ti/N ratios of 1.61, 3.79, and 5.00 for TN16, TN38, and TN50 steels. The TN38 steel has the highest number density of the TiN particles with the sizes between 20 and 25 nm and the highest pinning force of the particles in three steels, resulting the smallest grain sizes in its HAZ. In addition, in three steels, the TN38 steel has the main microstructure of intragranular aciculate ferrites with the highest high‐angle grain boundaries density in its HAZ, thereby obtaining the highest value of low‐temperature impact toughness of the HAZ.
AlN and Nb(C,N) Composite Precipitation Behaviors and Their Effects on Austenite Grain Growth in SCr420H High‐Temperature Carburized Gear Steel
Authors: Gong Shuo , Wang Fuming , Chen Kaitan
Published: May 2024

The effects of nitrogen (N) and niobium (Nb) contents on the precipitation behaviors of AlN, Nb(C,N), and AlN‐Nb(C,N) precipitates and austenite grain growth during the pseudo‐carburizing process are investigated for the carburized steel SCr420H. The results indicate that an increase of N content from 0.011% to 0.019% leads to the emergence of fine and uniform austenite grain structure in the sample while being held at 930 °C for 6 h, which is attributed to a notable rise in the number density of AlN and a decrease in the coarsening rate of AlN. In the steel containing 0.023% Nb, the composite precipitates AlN‐Nb(C,N) play a primary role in the pinning effect on austenite grains growth. The isolated Nb(C,N) and AlN precipitates have minor pinning effects due to their very low volume fractions. Nb(C,N) cap forming on AlN substrate obeys the Shoji–Nishiyama orientation relationship. The favorable lattice matching between AlN and Nb(C,N) and accelerated coarsening rate of Nb(C,N) cap decrease hindrances to the nucleation, growth, and coarsening of Nb(C,N) on AlN substrate. Meanwhile, these simultaneous effects also suppress the same processes for the isolated Nb(C,N) in the matrix.
Profilometry‐Based Indentation Plastometry and Uniaxial Testing of Pipelines: Detection of In‐Plane Anisotropy and Potential for Simplification of Test Procedures
Authors: Vaka Harika , Warwick Cyril Marcus , Clyne Trevor William
Published: May 2024

This article concerns anisotropy in stress–strain relationships exhibited by steel pipelines. Since the stress from internal pressurization is highest in the hoop direction, standard industrial practice to measure these properties has focussed on tensile testing in this direction, requiring a prior flattening operation. The associated plastic deformation may affect properties, typically causing a (poorly‐defined) degree of hardening and the creation of inhomogeneity. Field testing of such pipelines, requiring in situ measurement of tensile properties (yield stress (YS) and ultimate tensile stress (UTS)), is based on indentation testing of the outer surface. One such test (profilometry‐based indentation plastometry (PIP)), not only gives the stress–strain curve, but also allows detection of any (in‐plane) anisotropy, with a high sensitivity. Both PIP testing and compression testing (with and without prior flattening) have confirmed that none of the eight pipes examined in the current work exhibited any such anisotropy, although the effects of flattening did tend to generate apparent anisotropy in the tensile test outcomes. It may therefore be appropriate to switch the focus of tensile testing to the axial direction, such that no flattening would be required.
Corrosion and Biofouling Behaviors of Self‐Organized Structures on Steel Surface Fabricated by Femtosecond Laser
Authors: Zhu Jing , Wei Chongyi , Zhang Yuan , Yang Ji , Qiao Jun , Zhu Xiaolei , Palumbo Gianfranco
Published: May 2024

Self‐organized ripple and pillar structures are fabricated on steel surface using femtosecond laser. Their wettability is investigated in terms of static contact angle, roughness, and chemical bonds. The pillar structure is treated in low surface energy solution to further improve its hydrophobicity. The corrosion and biofouling behaviors of the structures in sea water are investigated by electrochemical and chlorella immersion experiments, respectively. The results show that the ripple structure is hydrophilic with a static contact angle similar to the original surface, while the pillar structure is highly hydrophobic since it has higher roughness and amount of non polar chemical bonds. The pillar structure is further transferred to superhydrophobic through the low surface energy treatment. The improved hydrophobicity facilitates a better anti‐corrosion and anti‐biofouling behavior, and the superhydrophobic pillar structure exhibits the best performance due to its strongest ability to repel water and chlorella adhesion.
The PDI model system for parameterizing soil hydraulic properties
Authors: Peters Andre , Durner Wolfgang , Iden Sascha
Published: May 2024

The Peters–Durner–Iden (PDI) model system for describing soil hydraulic properties (SHP) has been developed over a decade. Inspired by Rien van Genuchten's seminal work, the PDI system focuses on an efficient and simple parameterization of water retention curves and hydraulic conductivity curves (HCC) across the entire soil moisture spectrum. By combining capillary and non‐capillary components for water retention and conductivity, it aims to reconcile mathematical simplicity and insights on water adsorption and film flow in soils. Recent developments have reduced the number of free parameters of the conductivity model to zero, enhancing the model's applicability in cases of limited data availability. The first reduction was achieved by a prediction of absolute non‐capillary conductivity based on the consideration of film and corner flow on the pore scale, and the second by a prediction of absolute capillary conductivity by a capillary bundle model. This allows a complete characterization of SHP over the entire moisture range with only four retention curve parameters. The inclusion of a maximum pore size in the capillary conductivity model prevents an unrealistic drop of the HCC near saturation. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of the PDI model system, emphasizing its conceptual features and mathematical details. An Excel sheet and a Python code stored in a repository are provided for accessibility.
Simulating bare soil evaporation for undisturbed soil cores—Using HYDRUS 3D simulation on X‐ray µCT determined soil macrostructures
Authors: Leuther Frederic , Diamantopoulos Efstathios
Published: May 2024

Evaporation of soil water depends not only on climatic conditions, soil surface roughness, soil texture, and soil hydraulic properties but also on the soils’ macrostructure. Evaporation is characterized by water losses over time for a defined soil volume, where soils are assumed to be homogeneous in texture and structure. In this technical note, we investigated the potential and limitations of 3D modeling of evaporation processes on 250 cm3 soil cores with structural features ≥480 µm determined by X‐ray computed tomography. For this, we used isothermal Richards equation as the main governing equation, accounting also for isothermal vapor flow. We simulated two evaporation experiments with same soil texture but contrasting macrostructures, that is, the spatial arrangement of voxels classified as soil matrix and air‐filled voids, of a ploughed and non‐ploughed grassland soil with HYDRUS 3D. In both simulations, we fixed the potential evaporation rates to the experimental rates and evaluated simulation results with measured matric potential data at two depths (1.25 cm and 3.75 cm) continuously recorded at 10 min intervals. We could show that the simulations of bare soil evaporation were able to predict the tensiometer dynamics and water losses for the full experimental time of 7 days. The simulation provided unique spatial information of water content and flow velocities as a function of time, which are important when studying the effect of air‐filled macropores, macro‐connectivity of soil matrix, and water dynamics on soil evaporation.
Influence of geographical origin in the physical and bioactive parameters of single origin dark chocolate
Authors: Cartas José , Alvarenga Nuno , Partidário Ana , Lageiro Manuela , Roseiro Cristina , Gonçalves Helena , Leitão António Eduardo , Ribeiro Carlos Marques , Dias João
Published: May 2024

Dark chocolate presents exclusive characteristics that make it a food product with worldwide consumption and also as an ingredient in several food industries. Although chocolate is an energy-dense food, it is also rich in bioactive compounds and recent studies have demonstrated health benefits from a moderate consumption. Therefore, the quantification of the bioactive compounds of different types of cocoa, from different geographical origins, is of great importance to recognize the importance of single origin dark chocolate from the nutritional point of view. Dark chocolate produced from Amelonado variety presented higher values of hardness (5592 g), plastic viscosity (2.87 Pa.s) and yield value (12.91 Pa). Both dark chocolates from Peru, Piura Blanco and Chuncho, presented higher results in total phenolic content, total antioxidant capacity, caffeine and vitamin E. Additionally, sample Piura Blanco presented a higher content of theobromine (720.7 mg/100 g), lactic acid (1153.2 mg/100 g), succinic acid (679.4 mg/100 g) and oxalic acid (468.5 mg/100 g). On the other hand, chocolate from São Tomé presented a higher content of sucrose (38.22%) and SFA (62.38% of total fat). The results obtained demonstrate the existence of heterogeneity in cocoa varieties, supporting decision-makers in the selection of the most suitable cocoa for specific market needs.
First-trimester serum biomarkers in twin pregnancies and adverse obstetric outcomes–a single center cohort study
Authors: Queirós Alexandra , Gomes Laura , Pereira Inês , Charepe Nádia , Plancha Marta , Rodrigues Sofia , Cohen Álvaro , Alves Marta , Papoila Ana Luísa , Simões Teresinha
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to determine the association of first-trimester maternal serum biomarkers with preterm birth (PTB), fetal growth restriction (FGR) and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) in twin pregnancies.

Methods

This is a retrospective cohort study of twin pregnancies followed at Maternidade Dr. Alfredo da Costa, Lisbon, Portugal, between January 2010 and December 2022. We included women who completed first-trimester screening in our unit and had ongoing pregnancies with two live fetuses, and delivered after 24 weeks. Maternal characteristics, pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A) and β-human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG) levels were analyzed for different outcomes: small for gestational age (SGA), gestational hypertension (GH), early and late-onset pre-eclampsia (PE), as well as the composite outcome of PTB associated with FGR and/or HDP. Univariable, multivariable logistic regression analyses and receiver-operating characteristic curve were used.

Results

466 twin pregnancies met the inclusion criteria. Overall, 185 (39.7%) pregnancies were affected by SGA < 5th percentile and/or HDP. PAPP-A demonstrated a linear association with gestational age at birth and mean birth weight. PAPP-A proved to be an independent risk factor for SGA and PTB (< 34 and < 36 weeks) related to FGR and/or HDP. None of the women with PAPP-A MoM > 90th percentile developed early-onset PE or PTB < 34 weeks.

Conclusion

A high serum PAPP-A (> 90th percentile) ruled out early-onset PE and PTB < 34 weeks. Unless other major risk factors for hypertensive disorders are present, these women should not be considered candidates for aspirin prophylaxis. Nevertheless, close monitoring of all TwP for adverse obstetric outcomes is still recommended.
A commentary on studies of brain iron accumulation during ageing
Authors: Hackett Mark J.
Published: May 2024

Brain iron content is widely reported to increase during “ageing”, across multiple species from nematodes, rodents (mice and rats) and humans. Given the redox-active properties of iron, there has been a large research focus on iron-mediated oxidative stress as a contributor to tissue damage during natural ageing, and also as a risk factor for neurodegenerative disease. Surprisingly, however, the majority of published studies have not investigated brain iron homeostasis during the biological time period of senescence, and thus knowledge of how brain homeostasis changes during this critical stage of life largely remains unknown. This commentary examines the literature published on the topic of brain iron homeostasis during ageing, providing a critique on limitations of currently used experimental designs. The commentary also aims to highlight that although much research attention has been given to iron accumulation or iron overload as a pathological feature of ageing, there is evidence to support functional iron deficiency may exist, and this should not be overlooked in studies of ageing or neurodegenerative disease.

Graphical abstract
Linking factors to incisional hernia following pancreatic surgery: a 14-year retrospective analysis
Authors: Nevo Nadav , Jacover Arielle , Nizri Eran , Cuccurullo Diego , Rispoli Corrado , Pery Ron , Elizur Yoav , Horesh Nir , Eshkenazy Rony , Nachmany Ido , Pencovich Niv
Published: May 2024

Background

Incisional hernias (IH) are a significant postoperative complication with profound implications for patient morbidity and healthcare costs. The relationship between IH and perioperative factors in pancreatic surgery, with particular attention to preoperative biliary stents and pancreatic fistulas requires further exploration.

Methods

This retrospective observational study examined adult patients who underwent open pancreatic surgeries via midline incision at a high-volume tertiary hepatopancreatobiliary center from January 2008 to December 2021. The study focused on IH incidence and associated risk factors, with particular attention to preoperative biliary stents and pancreatic fistulas.

Results

In a cohort of 620 individuals undergoing pancreatic surgery, 351 had open surgery with at least one-year follow-up. Within a median follow-up of 794 days (IQR 1694–537), the overall incidence of IH was 17.38%. The highest frequency of IH was observed among patients who had a Pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD). Significant predictors for the development of IH within the entire study population in a multivariable analysis included perioperative biliary stenting (OR 2.05; 95% CI 1.06–3.96; p = 0.03), increased age at diagnosis (OR 2.05; 95% CI 1.06–3.96; p = 0.01), and BMI (OR 1.08; 95% CI 1.01–1.15; p = 0.01). In the subset of patients who underwent Pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD), although the presence of biliary stents was associated with a heightened occurrence of SSIs, it did not demonstrate a direct correlation with an increased incidence of incisional hernias (IH). The development of pancreatic fistulas did not show a significant correlation with IH in either the Distal Pancreatectomy with Splenectomy (DPS) or the PD patient groups.

Conclusions

The study underscores a notable association between biliary stent placement and increased IH risk after PD, mediated by elevated SSI incidence. Pancreatic fistulas were not directly correlated with IH in the studied cohorts. Further research is necessary to validate these findings and guide clinical practice.
Indirect effects of plasma-activated water irrigation on Tetranychus urticae populations
Authors: Savi Patrice Jacob , Mantri Anil , Khodaverdi Haleh , Zou Yugeng , de Moraes Gilberto José , Nansen Christian
Published: May 2024

Plasma-activated water (PAW) is receiving increased attention as a booster of seed germination and seedling vigor, and some studies have described use of PAW to manage crop pathogens. Here, we examined physicochemical properties of two PAWs (referred to as PAW 6.0 and 9.4 min with atmospheric plasma jet) and assessed “their indirect effects” (applied as supplementary irrigation) on host suitability of tomato plants (Solanum lycopersicum L.) to two-spotted spider mites (Tetranychus urticae Koch). Exposure of water to cold plasma significantly lowered pH and increased concentrations of H2O2, NO2−, and NO3−. Supplementary PAW irrigations elicited significant increases in leaf composition of several elements (N, P, K S, Ca, and Mg), leaf reflectance, plant size, and trichome densities (except non-glandular trichomes on the adaxial surface). Preference bioassays revealed significant avoidance of settling and reduced oviposition by two-spotted spider mites on leaf discs from PAW-irrigated plants compared to those from untreated control plants. Performance bioassays showed a significant decrease in two-spotted spider mite populations on PAW-irrigated plants. Results presented in this study provide comprehensive support to the hypothesis that indirect effects of supplementary PAW irrigation significantly reduce host plant suitability to two-spotted spider mites. PAW 6.0 may be slightly better than PAW 9.4, and this difference in performance is discussed in this study. Applications of PAW as supplementary irrigation are likely highly compatible with other IPM tactics and should be considered an innovative and sustainable component in twenty-first-century pest management.
Prevalence of Mental Health Disorders and Their Associated Risk Factors Among People Living with HIV in Rwanda: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Omann Laura Risbjerg , Dushimiyimana Valentine , Musoni-Rwililiza Emmanuel , Arnbjerg Caroline Juhl , Niyonkuru Vivianne Umuhire , Iyamuremye Jean Damascene , Gasana Michel , Carlsson Jessica , Kallestrup Per , Kraef Christian
Published: May 2024

While life expectancy of people living with HIV is increasing, their burden of non-communicable diseases, including mental health disorders, is growing as well. The aim of this study is to investigate the prevalence and identify the risk factors associated with mental health disorders among this population in Rwanda. This cross-sectional study enrolled people living with HIV from 12 HIV clinics across Rwanda using random sampling. Trained HIV nurses conducted the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview to estimate the prevalence of major depressive episode, post-traumatic stress disorder, and generalized anxiety disorder. Sociodemographic, psychosocial, and HIV-related data were also collected. Associated risk factors for being diagnosed with one of the mental health disorders were assessed using modified Poisson regression with robust error variance. Of 428 participants, 70 (16.4%) had at least one mental health disorder with major depressive episode being most prevalent (n = 60, 14.0%). Almost all participants were adherent to antiretroviral therapy (n = 424, 99.1%) and virally suppressed (n = 412, 96.9%). Of those diagnosed with a mental health disorder, only few were aware of (n = 4, 5.7%) or under treatment for this mental health disorder (n = 5, 7.2%). Mental health disorders were associated with experiences of HIV-related stigma and discrimination (aRR = 2.14, 95%CI 1.30–3.53, p = 0.003). The results demonstrate underdiagnosis and undertreatment of mental health disorders among Rwandan People Living with HIV. Using HIV nurses to diagnose mental health disorders could serve as a low-cost strategy for integrating mental health care with existing HIV services and could inspire the implementation in other low-resource settings.
Impact of Corporate Culture on Environmental Performance
Authors: Costa Mabel D. , Opare Solomon
Published: May 2024

We examine the impact of corporate culture on environmental performance using a sample of 7199 firm-year observations over the period of 2002–2018. We find that stronger corporate culture improves environmental performance, measured by the amount of toxic chemical release (TCR). Our result is both statistically and economically significant. We also show that cultural norms of innovation, quality and teamwork as well as a technology-oriented corporate culture have a greater impact on enhancing environmental performance. Further analyses show that managerial competence and strong institutional ownership moderate the relationship between corporate culture and environmental performance. We introduce the decomposition of expected and unexpected components of TCR and document that firms with a strong corporate culture implement strategies to reduce the unexpected component of TCR in addition to the expected component of TCR. Finally, we document that strong corporate culture and environmental performance improve firms’ financial performance. Our results are robust to several sensitivity tests and procedures to mitigate endogeneity and self-selection problems. From a practical point of view, our findings suggest that a firm’s culture can determine its environmental sustainability and ethical practices.
Government political ideology and green innovation: evidence from OECD countries
Authors: Tawiah Vincent , Zakari Abdulrasheed
Published: May 2024

In this paper, we examine the relationship between government political ideology and green innovation. We employ data on 20 democratic countries with multi-party systems between 2010 and 2018. Green innovation is measured by the total patents in environment-related technologies. We find a negative relationship between left-leaning government and green innovation, suggesting that leftist governments are associated with low green innovations. This finding is consistent with the political assumption that leftist governments resist technological advancement because it may cause unemployment, whereas rightist promotes technological advancement to benefit the capitalist. We also find that the effect of political ideology remains the same during electoral years, implying that elections do not present any pressure on parties to change their course towards green innovation. Our result implies that partisan politics matters in finding solutions to unending environmental challenges. The results are robust to alternative measurements of variables and econometric identification strategies.
Investigation of hybrid CuPc-doped ZnO/p-silicon photodiodes for photonic and electronic applications
Authors: Özel Gökhan , Demirezen Selçuk
Published: May 2024

Copper phthalocyanine (CuPc) doped zinc oxide (ZnO) interlayered Al/p-Si Schottky barrier diodes (SBDs) were systematically fabricated utilizing spin coating technique. This study was undertaken to meticulously assess the influence of varying concentrations of CuPc on the intricate electrical and photodiode characteristics of these devices. The investigation involved the characterization of the current–voltage (I–V) characteristics configured with distinct different doping concentrations of CuPc such as 0.05 wt%,1 wt%, 2 wt%, under a wide range of voltages (± 5 V) and illumination irradiances. These measurements enabled the calculation of various critical electrical variables, such as the ideality factor (n), barrier height (ΦB), series resistance (Rs), shunt resistance (Rsh), interface states density (Nss) and their response under various illumination levels (between 10 and 100 mW/cm2) and under dark condition. An increase in the reverse current as the illumination increases suggested the potential utility of these SBDs as photodiodes, photosensors, or photodetectors. Notably, the linear dynamic range (LDR), a crucial factor for image sensors which obtained around 14 for all photodiodes. The photodiodes exhibited a good rectification ratio (RR) of approximately 104. The results obtained indicate that the rectifying properties of the structures can be controlled by CuPc doping. In addition, the results indicated that the presence of CuPc significantly influenced the values of n, ΦB, Rs/Rsh, and Nss. To further analyze the devices, capacitance–voltage (C–V) and conductance–voltage (G–V) measurements were carried out to determine parameters such as diffusion potential (VD), dopant acceptor atoms concentration (NA), Fermi energy level (EF), and width of depletion layer (WD) at both 1 kHz and 1 MHz. The measurements revealed that the capacitance values were higher at low frequencies compared to high frequencies, and this behavior was attributed to Nss. In summary, this study suggests that the manufactured photodiodes have the potential to be employed as photodiodes, sensors, or detectors in optical sensing applications, and their performance can be tailored by adjusting the concentration of CuPc in the ZnO interlayered structures. The discerned outcomes revealed the substantial influence of CuPc concentration on key electrical parameters, with conspicuous trends noted in the values of n, ΦB, Rs/Rsh, and Nss. Furthermore, the observed increase in the reverse current as the illumination level increases highlights the potential utility of these SBDs as sensitive photodiodes/sensors/detectors.
A comparative study of electric current-assisted and conventional sintering of Inconel 718 superalloy
Authors: Ergin Nuri , Koçak Necati , Özdemir Özkan
Published: May 2024

In this study, In718 powder mixtures prepared from elemental powders following stoichiometric composition and supplied as a commercial product were produced by conventional powder metallurgy (1300 °C/4 h) and electric current-assisted sintering (ECAS)(1700-2300A/10 min) methods and followed by a double-aging heat treatment. The characterization studies determined that the best results were the sample produced by the ECAS method using the elemental powder mixture. The targeted precipitate γ′, γ″, and δ phases were obtained after the heat treatment, and a hardness value of 344 ± 41 HV0.5 and a relative density of 98.96% were achieved. The sample preserved its surface integrity by exhibiting high corrosion resistance from hot corrosion studies in the temperature range of 650–850 °C and NaSO4 + 60%V2O5 environment. The corrosion rate of the sample, which was subjected to electrochemical corrosion tests in 3.5% NaCl and 10% NaNO3 solutions, was determined as 45.59 mpy and 10.56 mpy, respectively.
Energy- and exergy-based economical and environmental (4E) evaluation of the influence of natural pollutants on PV array performance
Authors: Keskin Vedat
Published: May 2024

In the present investigation, thermodynamic/eco/environmental analysis of the relationship between time-dependent particle deposition and thermal-based losses and incident solar radiation intensity on the PV front cover glass during the months with the least precipitation in the city of Samsun (Turkey) was performed. To evaluate the effect of dust accumulation, controlled experiments were carried out where the surface of one set of PV panels was periodically cleaned with water and the other one was left to natural contamination. The results showed that over three months, the difference in energy loss rates between cleaned and uncleaned PV arrays ranged from 2.53% to 8.1%, with the exergy efficiency difference measured at 1.3%–2.44%. According to the energy-based analyzes, August was the most effective month, with cleaned PV arrays reducing CO2 emissions by 401.5 kg and saving $6.02, compared to uncleaned PV arrays which reduced emissions by 362.21 kg and cost $5.43, respectively. Similarly, in the exergy-based evaluation, August was the most efficient month, with cleaned PV arrays decreasing CO2 emissions by 401.5 kg and saving $6.02, compared to uncleaned PV arrays, which dropped CO2 emissions by 362.21 kg and costing $5.43, respectively. While the cleaned surfaces were initially positive, a decrease was observed over time. However, the efficiency of PV decreased with increasing panel temperature. The study concludes that PV surfaces need to be cleaned at certain intervals, depending on the location’s weather conditions.
ATP6V1B1 regulates ovarian cancer progression and cisplatin sensitivity through the mTOR/autophagy pathway
Authors: Mo Shien , Liu Tingji , Zhou Haiqin , Huang Junning , Zhao Ling , Lu Fangfang , Kuang Yan
Published: May 2024

Early detection and effective chemotherapy for ovarian cancer, a serious gynecological malignancy, require further progress. This study aimed to investigate the molecular mechanism of ATPase H+-Transporting V1 Subunit B1 (ATP6V1B1) in ovarian cancer development and chemoresistance. Our data show that ATP6V1B1 is upregulated in ovarian cancer and correlated with decreased progression-free survival. Gain- and loss-of-function experiments demonstrated that ATP6V1B1 promotes the proliferation, migration, and invasion of ovarian cancer cells in vitro, while ATP6V1B1 knockout inhibits tumor growth in vivo. In addition, knocking down ATP6V1B1 increases the sensitivity of ovarian cancer cells to cisplatin. Mechanistic studies showed that ATP6V1B1 regulates the activation of the mTOR/autophagy pathway. Overall, our study confirmed the oncogenic role of ATP6V1B1 in ovarian cancer and revealed that ATP6V1B1 promotes ovarian cancer progression via the mTOR/autophagy axis.
Mapping science through editorial board interlocking: connections and distance between fields of knowledge and institutional affiliations
Authors: de-Marcos Luis , Goyanes Manuel , Domínguez-Díaz Adrián
Published: May 2024

Research is a global enterprise underpinned by the general belief that findings need to be true to be considered scientific. In the complex system of scientific validation, editorial boards (EBs) play a fundamental role in guiding journals’ review process, which has led many stakeholders of sciences to metaphorically picture them as the “gatekeepers of knowledge.” In an attempt to address the academic structure that governs sciences through editorial board interlocking (EBI, the cross-presence of EB members in different journals) and social network analysis, the aim of this study is threefold: first, to map the connection between fields of knowledge through EBI; second, to visualize and empirically test the distance between social and general sciences; and third, to uncover the institutional structure (i.e., universities) that governs these connections. Our findings, based on the dataset collected through the Open Editors initiative for the journals indexed in the JCR, revealed a substantial level of collaboration between all fields, as suggested by the connections between EBs. However, there is a statistically significant difference between the weight of the edges and the path lengths connecting the fields of natural sciences to the fields of social sciences (compared to the connections within), indicating the development of different research cultures and invisible colleges in these two research areas. The results also show that a central group of US institutions dominates most journal EBs, indirectly suggesting that US scientific norms and values still prevail in all fields of knowledge. Overall, our study suggests that scientific endeavor is highly networked through EBs.
Comparison of rivaroxaban and low molecular weight heparin in the treatment of cancer-associated venous thromboembolism: a Swedish national population-based register study
Authors: Linder Marie , Ekbom Anders , Brobert Gunnar , Vogtländer Kai , Balabanova Yanina , Becattini Cecilia , Carrier Marc , Cohen Alexander T. , Coleman Craig I. , Khorana Alok A. , Lee Agnes Y. Y. , Psaroudakis George , Abdelgawwad Khaled , Rivera Marcela , Schaefer Bernhard , Giunta Diego Hernan
Published: May 2024

Background

Treating cancer-associated venous thromboembolism (CAT) with anticoagulation prevents recurrent venous thromboembolism (rVTE), but increases bleeding risk.

Objectives

To compare incidence of rVTE, major bleeding, and all-cause mortality for rivaroxaban versus low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) in patients with CAT.

Methods

We developed a cohort study using Swedish national registers 2013–2019. Patients with CAT (venous thromboembolism within 6 months of cancer diagnosis) were included. Those with other indications or with high bleeding risk cancers were excluded (according to guidelines). Follow-up was from index-CAT until outcome, death, emigration, or end of study. Incidence rates (IR) per 1000 person-years with 95% confidence interval (CI) and propensity score overlap-weighted hazard ratios (HRs) for rivaroxaban versus LMWH were estimated.

Results

We included 283 patients on rivaroxaban and 5181 on LMWH. The IR for rVTE was 68.7 (95% CI 40.0–109.9) for rivaroxaban, compared with 91.6 (95% CI 81.9–102.0) for LMWH, with adjusted HR 0.77 (95% CI 0.43–1.35). The IR for major bleeding was 23.5 (95% CI 8.6–51.1) for rivaroxaban versus 49.2 (95% CI 42.3–56.9) for LMWH, with adjusted HR 0.62 (95% CI 0.26–1.49). The IR for all-cause mortality was 146.8 (95% CI 103.9–201.5) for rivaroxaban and 565.6 (95% CI 541.8–590.2) for LMWH with adjusted HR 0.48 (95% CI 0.34–0.67).

Conclusions

Rivaroxaban performed similarly to LMWH for patients with CAT for rVTE and major bleeding. An all-cause mortality benefit was observed for rivaroxaban which potentially may be attributed to residual confounding.

Trial registration number

NCT05150938 (Registered 9 December 2021).
Morphology characterization of unsaturated soils under drying-wetting cycles: crack opening and closure
Authors: Zhuo Zhuang , Cai Weiling , Zhu Cheng , Tang Chao-Sheng , Roksana Kaniz
Published: May 2024

The volumetric and hydrological responses of clayey soils subjected to drying-wetting (D-W) cycles are of paramount importance for the integrity of geoenvironmental infrastructures. The study aimed to investigate the cracking behavior of clayey soils under D-W cycles by using advanced 2D imaging and 3D scanning techniques to capture the initiation and propagation of desiccation cracks within a soil specimen. The temporal variation in the soil water content and the corresponding 2D digital photography and 3D morphology of cracks were simultaneously monitored, and the cracking characteristics were interpreted. It was found that the time-dependent evaporation process was independent of the D-W cycles. Both 2D and 3D characterization showed the cracking hysteresis phenomenon in the unsaturated soil, which indicates the dependency of the crack opening and closure on the degree of saturation. D-W cycles led to the formation of subcracks and the increase in the total crack length, reflecting the soil degradation. Additionally, it was demonstrated that the 3D characterization exhibited the advantage of capturing the volumetric change and the subtle change in the macroporosity of the cracked soil over the 2D visualization. The current study provides a perspective of combining 2D and 3D characterization for interpreting the volumetric change of cracked soils and enhancing the understanding of the hydromechanical responses and the soil-atmosphere interactions.
On the Possibility of Improving the Oxidation Resistance of High-Chromium Ferritic Stainless Steel Using Reactive Element Oxide Nanoparticles
Authors: Mazur Łukasz , Gil Aleksander , Kamecki Bartosz , Domaradzki Kamil , Bik Maciej , Zając Patryk , Zientara Dariusz , Molin Sebastian , Brylewski Tomasz
Published: May 2024

High-chromium ferritic steels are current the only viable candidates for cheap interconnect materials for application in high-temperature solid oxide fuel and electrolyzer cells (HT-SOFCs/SOECs). The durability and operating characteristics of interconnects manufactured using these materials may be improved significantly by applying a protective-conducting MoCo2O4 coating and depositing an intermediate layer consisting of nanoparticles of Gd2O3—a reactive element oxide—on the surface of the steel substrate. The study demonstrated that the conditions of the thermal treatment of this layered system determine the efficacy of the applied modification with the reactive element. The persistence of this effect was tested over 7000 hours of quasi-isothermal oxidation in air at 800 °C.
Quantitative analysis of organosulphur compounds in crude oil samples using magnetic solid phase extraction based on Au-Fe3O4 adsorbent and gas chromatography with time-of-flight mass spectrometry
Authors: Mgiba Samuel S. , Mhuka V. , Hintsho-Mbita N. C. , Mketo Nomvano
Published: May 2024

This study focused on the development of a magnetic solid phase extraction (m-SPE) method using Au-Fe3O4 as an adsorbent followed by GC-ToFMS analysis for the determination of organosulphur compounds (OSCs) in fuel samples. The m-SPE using Au-Fe3O4 NPs was preferred because of the low toxicity of the adsorbent1, high separation efficiency using external magnet2 and greater extraction selectivity between sulphur and Au atom3. The Au-Fe3O4 NPs were characterized using XRD, UV–Vis, TEM, SEM and FTIR. This method was optimized using multivariate analysis based on a two-level full factorial and central composite designs. The conditions which produced optimum efficiency were found to be 150 mg mass of sorbent, 100 µL eluent volume, 50 min extraction time and 6,5 pH of the sample. These optimum conditions showed a relatively low limit of detection in the range of 0.02–0.199nµg/g and limit of quantification of 0.08–0.602 µg/g. Furthermore, a relative standard deviation of triplicates analysis was between 0.8 and 2.3% with good linearity of 0.9816–0.9961. The percentage recovery for thiophene, 3-methylthiophene, benzothiophene and dibenzothiophene ranged from 76 to 95% for the spiked samples. The optimized m-SPE method was then applied in real fuel oil samples. The concentration of thiophene, 3-methylthiophene, benzothiophene and dibenzothiophene in crude oil, gasoline, diesel and kerosene ranged from 0.43–1.94 µg/g, 0.78–1.63 µg/g, 0.95–4.31 µg/g to 1.55–2.09 µg/g, respectively. The m-SPE, followed by GC-ToFMS method, proved to be efficient, inexpensive and an alternative method for OSCs analysis in fuel oils.
On the Relaxation of Gauss’s Capillarity Theory Under Spanning Conditions
Authors: Novack Michael
Published: May 2024

We study a variational model for soap films in which the films are represented by sets with fixed small volume rather than surfaces. In this problem, a minimizing sequence of completely “wet" films, or sets of finite perimeter spanning a wire frame, may converge to a film containing both wet regions of positive volume and collapsed (dry) surfaces. When collapsing occurs, these limiting objects lie outside the original minimization class and instead are admissible for a relaxed problem. Here we show that the relaxation and the original formulation are equivalent by approximating the collapsed films in the relaxed class by wet films in the original class.
New method for assigning cardinal weights in multi-criteria decision-making: the constant weight ratio method
Authors: Casanovas-Rubio Maria del Mar , Vinolas Bernat
Published: May 2024

A new method is proposed to convert ordinal ranking of a number of criteria and an additional piece of information into numerical weights. A literature review of methods for assigning cardinal weights based on ordinal ranking is performed, as well as an analysis of their behaviour. The new method, called ‘constant weight ratio’ (CWR), enables better adjustment to the decision-maker’s preferences than purely ordinal ranking methods. It also solves the problem of the excessive decrease in the weight of the most important criterion (or criteria) when the total number of criteria is large and the weight of the most important criterion (or criteria) must be high. It is achieved via three simple steps and flexible input data. The additional piece of information may be: (i) the relative importance of the criteria, i.e., the weight ratio, (ii) the total weight of the most important set of criteria, or (iii) the weight of the most important criterion. The proposed method is applied to two case studies in the cultural sector to illustrate that the resulting weights are equivalent to other methods requiring more input data from the decision maker.
Neurophenomenology in Action: Integrating the First-Person Perspective into the Libet Experiment
Authors: Schmidt Stefan , Bauer Prisca R. , Trautwein Fynn-Mathis
Published: May 2024

In this conceptual contribution, we argue that experimental investigations of phenomena in the cognitive sciences and consciousness research may benefit from a thorough integration of data acquired from the first-person perspective. We present a line of research from our lab applying this approach to the Libet task on voluntary action. In this well-known experimental paradigm, participants perform a movement at a moment of their own choice. Previous research has shown that this voluntary decision to perform the action is preceded by a specific pattern in the electroencephalogram, the so-called readiness potential. This finding that the decision is preceded (and presumably determined) by an action-related brain processes puts the neuroscientific account at odds with our subjective intuition and challenges the notion of free will. This discrepancy exemplifies the gap between neuro-cognitive models of the mind and the accounts of our conscious experience. The aim of our theoretical proposal is to enrich the study of volitional action by integrating reports from the first-person perspective with the Libet paradigm to develop a more coherent account. This provides an example of implementing the research program of neurophenomenology developed by Francisco Varela to overcome the gap between scientific accounts of the mind and subjective experience. Specifically, we show how this can be achieved by interweaving three methodological approaches: (i) adapting common neuro-cognitive paradigms (i.e., the Libet task); (ii) employing refined first-person methods such as the micro-phenomenological interview; and (iii) collaborating with experienced meditators as research participants. Our contribution demonstrates how the neurophenomenological framework can be used to shed new light on long-standing and fundamental debates in consciousness research. We show that this approach not only addresses questions of intellectual curiosity but also has concrete ethical implications for the practice of science itself, self-determination, and the accountability of the conscious subject. On the basis of our approach, meditation can be seen as a method for enhancing self-regulation and self-determination, which allows for more deliberate decisions and thus more ethical behavior.
ZNF692 promotes the migration and response to immunotherapy of clear cell renal cell carcinoma cells by targeting metabolic pathway
Authors: Liu Yuming , Zeng Dehua , Gao Yunzhen
Published: May 2024

Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC), with high mortality and poor prognosis, is the most common type of renal malignancy. It is necessary to identify new biomarkers that can serve as indicators for the detection of ccRCC at its early stages. In this study, we analyzed the role of classical zinc finger protein 692 (ZNF692) in ccRCC using datasets from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Single Cell Portal and immunohistochemical (IHC) staining of a tissue-microarray, and analyzed the function of ZNF692 in ccRCC cells. The analyses indicated that ZNF692 was upregulated in ccRCC samples compared with normal or paracancerous control samples (P < 0.001) and that the expression of this gene was linked to poor overall survival (HR = 2.1, P < 0.0001). The knockdown of ZNF692 inhibited the proliferation and migration of ccRCC cells by target GTPase-activating protein (SH3 domain)-binding protein 2 (G3BP2), and transmembrane 9 superfamily member 2 (TM9SF2)). T, B, proximal, and collecting tubule cells are the dominant cell types in normal kidney tissue where ZNF692 is expressed. In addition, immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapy dramatically changed the expression patterns of ZNF692. Collectively, these data indicate that ZNF692 may serve as prognosis, and as a potential indicator of the response to ICB therapy, a possibility needs to be verified by a case‒control study.
Prognostic significance and immune landscape of a cell cycle progression-related risk model in bladder cancer
Authors: Tuo Zhouting , Lin Yuan , Zhang Ying , Gao Liang , Yu Dexin , Wang Jiani , Sun Chenyu , Sun Xianchao , Wang Jinyou , Prasad Apurwa , Bheesham Nimarta , Meng Muzi , Lv Zhengmei , Chen Xin
Published: May 2024

Background

A greater emphasis has been placed on the part of cell cycle progression (CCP) in cancer in recent years. Nevertheless, the precise connection between CCP-related genes and bladder cancer (BCa) has remained elusive. This study endeavors to establish and validate a reliable risk model incorporating CCP-related factors, aiming to predict both the prognosis and immune landscape of BCa.

Methods

Clinical information and RNA sequencing data were collected from the GEO and TCGA databases. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were conducted to construct a risk model associated with CCP. The performance of the model was assessed using ROC and Kaplan–Meier survival analyses. Functional enrichment analysis was employed to investigate potential cellular functions and signaling pathways. The immune landscape was characterized using CIBERSORT algorithms. Integration of the risk model with various clinical variables led to the development of a nomogram.

Results

To build the risk model, three CCP-related genes (RAD54B, KPNA2, and TPM1) were carefully chosen. ROC and Kaplan–Meier survival analysis confirm that our model has good performance. About immunological infiltration, the high-risk group showed decreased levels of regulatory T cells and dendritic cells coupled with increased levels of activated CD4 + memory T cells, M2 macrophages, and neutrophils. Furthermore, the nomogram showed impressive predictive power for OS at 1, 3, and 5 years.

Conclusion

This study provides new insights into the association between the CCP-related risk model and the prognosis of BCa, as well as its impact on the immune landscape.