bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Capillary Evaporation on High‐Dense Conductive Ramie Carbon for Assisting Highly Volumetric‐Performance Supercapacitors
Authors: Wang Qing , Chen Zhenyu , Luo Qitian , Li Haijian , Li Jie , Yang Weiqing
Published: June 2023

Conductive biomass carbon possesses unique properties of excellent conductivity and outstanding thermal stability, which can be widely used as conductive additive. However, building the high‐dense conductive biomass carbon with highly graphitized microcrystals at a lower carbonization temperature is still a major challenge because of structural disorder and low crystallinity of source material. Herein, a simple capillary evaporation method to efficiently build the high‐dense conductive ramie carbon (hd‐CRC) with the higher tap density of 0.47 cm3 g−1 than commercialized Super‐C45 (0.16 cm3 g−1) is reported. Such highly graphitized microcrystals of hd‐CRC can achieve the high electrical conductivity of 94.55 S cm−1 at the yield strength of 92.04 MPa , which is higher than commercialized Super‐C45 (83.92 S cm−1 at 92.04 MPa). As a demonstration, hd‐CRC based symmetrical supercapacitors possess a highly volumetric energy density of 9.01 Wh L−1 at 25.87 kW L−1, much more than those of commercialized Super‐C45 (5.06 Wh L−1 and 19.30 kW L−1). Remarkably, the flexible package supercapacitor remarkably presents a low leakage current of 10.27 mA and low equivalent series resistance of 3.93 mΩ. Evidently, this work is a meaningful step toward high‐dense conductive biomass carbon from traditional biomass graphite carbon, greatly promoting the highly‐volumetric–performance supercapacitors.
RFPM: A RSU‐aided framework for pseudonym management to preserve location privacy in IoV
Authors: Kumari Indu , Singh Pranav Kumar , Gowtham Shivram N. , Nandi Sukumar , Ghosh Uttam , Rawat Danda B.
Published: June 2023

The Internet of Vehicles (IoV) has become a rapidly growing research area, with the USA, EU, and Japan leading the way. IoV safety applications rely on broadcasting messages to communicate with peers and infrastructure. However, these messages contain sensitive information that can be used by an adversary to track vehicles' movements or cause chaos if not properly protected, resulting in location privacy concerns. Despite various schemes being proposed to address this issue, a standard approach to providing proper privacy to IoV users has yet to be established. This article proposes a roadside unit (RSU)‐aided framework for pseudonym management to preserve location privacy in IoV by enabling anonymity. The RSUs function as key entities, collecting, distributing, and shuffling pseudonyms for use by vehicles to enforce anonymity. The proposed framework has been evaluated through experimental simulations on PREXT, demonstrating better performance than existing schemes in terms of privacy metrics, including traceability, anonymity set, confusion matrix, and maximum entropy. Realistic terrain has been taken into account, and the framework is designed to be flexible and adaptable for future needs.
Effect of Cold Rolling Reduction Ratio on Microstructure and Magnetic Properties of Secondary Cold‐Rolled High‐Grade Nonoriented Silicon Steel
Authors: Wei Hui , Lin Yuan , Luo Peilin , Wang Hongxia , Wang Shijia , Zhang Wenkang , Wang Yide , Wang Lifei
Published: June 2023

Trial production of 0.25 mm‐thick thin‐gauge high‐grade nonoriented silicon steel with a Si content of 3.5% by the secondary cold rolling process is studied. The recrystallization microstructure and magnetic properties are systematically studied by the microstructure, texture evolution, and the effect of two‐stage cold rolling reduction ratios (37.5–70.5%) during the whole process. The results show that the magnetic induction intensity B5000 first increases and then decreases; the iron loss first decreases and then increases at the frequencies of 50 and 400 Hz with the reduction of the cold rolling reduction rate in the second stage. The cubic and Goss texture of the finished annealed sheet has the highest strength when the reduction ratio of the second stage cold rolling is 58.3%. The highest magnetic induction intensity, B5000 = 1.671 T. Lowest iron loss, P1.0/50 = 0.83 W kg−1, P1.5/50 = 1.98 W kg−1, and P1.0/400 = 11.94 W kg−1, respectively.
David Cameron Wylie
Authors: Beasley Kathy
Published: June 2023

A third‐generation vet, devoted to his family, with a good sense of humour and a love of life.
Trip of a lifetime sparked life‐changing career choice to start veterinary charity
Authors: Hampson Rebecca
Published: June 2023

Rebecca Hampson left small animal practice to volunteer abroad and pursue her interest in animal and human welfare – and then started a charity, Veterinary Education Malawi, with her partner.
Arsenic and total dissolved solids removal using antibacterial/antifouling nanofiltration membranes modified by functionalized graphene oxide and copper ferrodioxide
Authors: Gholami Foad , Ghanizadeh Ghader , Zinatizadeh Ali Akbar , Zinadini Sirus , Masoumbeigi Hossein
Published: June 2023

The intrinsic hydrophilicity of metal compounds, such as copper ferrite (CuFe2O4), and organic compounds, including graphene oxide (GO) and triethylenetetramine (TETA), make them promising adsorbents for heavy metals removal. The presence of lone pairs in these compounds is observed in modified polyethersulfone membranes used for the separation of arsenic (As) and total dissolved solids (TDS), including mono and divalent salts from aqueous solutions. The objective of this study was to investigate the performance of GO–TETA–CuFe2O4 membranes for wastewater treatment applications. The membranes were characterized for their optimal mechanical strength (tensile strength) and high negative charge (zeta potential) on the surface. Separation tests were conducted at different pressures and pH levels to evaluate the membrane's effectiveness in removing contaminants. In addition, the membranes were examined for their antibacterial properties. The modified membrane exhibited superior performance compared with the control membrane, with TDS removal rates of 93.8%, As3+ removal rates of 81.2%, and As5+ removal rates of 87.9%. The contact angle of the modified membrane was reduced, resulting in an increase in pure water flux from 13.11 to 27.87 L/m2.h. The modified membrane also demonstrated significantly higher resistance to fouling than the control membrane, with a resistance increase from 6.78 × 10+12 to 2.07 × 10+12 m−1. This contributed to the improved separation performance of As and TDS in a cross‐flow setup. The results suggest that the GO–TETA–CuFe2O4 modified membrane has great potential for use in water treatment applications.

Practitioner Points

GO–TETA–CuFe2O4 was successfully used for modification of PES NF membrane structure.

The efficiency of blended NF membranes with GO–TETA–CuFe2O4 significantly increased.

The modified membranes exhibited significant water flux and antifouling properties.

The GO–TETA–CuFe2O4/PES membranes showed high rejection of heavy metal ions and TDS than PES.

The GO–TETA–CuFe2O4/PES membranes exhibited desirable antibacterial activity.
Injection: A Gender Perspective on Domestic Slavery
Authors: Karras Ruth Mazo
Published: June 2023

This “injection” comes from the point of view of a historian of slavery turned historian of sexuality. The history of sexuality sits very uneasily with the history of enslavement, however, because of the problem of agency and its relationship to consent. Historians must not erase the personhood of the enslaved and their ability to make choices; but the realm within which they make those choices is so constrained that recognizing their agency can be akin to blaming the victim or implying consent when it cannot really be given.
Slavery in Late Ming China
Authors: Chevaleyre Claude
Published: June 2023

Slavery is not a commonly discussed topic in late imperial Chinese history—indeed, as much as late imperial China is not an area usually discussed in world and global slavery studies. The ubiquity of the “feudal” analytical framework in Chinese historiography and the image of the archetypal “slave” have resulted in the widespread idea that there was no slavery in (early-) modern China (and Eastern Asia). This chapter reevaluates this widely accepted preconception by shedding light on the overlooked and unique succession of “slave revolts” that erupted in China’s economic centers between the 1630s and the 1660s. The focus on this particular moment in Chinese history and on the sources produced in its aftermath serves as an entry point to understanding the life experiences of Chinese nubi, a category of enslaved people that persisted until its formal abolition in the last years of the imperial regime.
Ancient Egyptian Slavery
Authors: Karev Ella
Published: June 2023

This chapter provides a broad-strokes overview of the forms of enslavement and coerced labor in Egypt from the Old Kingdom (c. 2600 BCE) to the end of the Ptolemaic period (30 BCE), tracking the methods of entry into and exit from enslaved status, as well as the extraction of slave labor. Although there are some constants—such as enslavement through capture in war—over the course of nearly three millennia of Egyptian history, the forms of enslavement and coerced labor manifested differently as the state underwent societal and economic change.
American Slaveries Since Emancipation
Authors: Armstrong Catherine
Published: June 2023

This chapter explores the continuing existence of slavery-like practices within the United States itself and in its sites of imperial interest between the years 1870 and 1939. It also probes the changing ways that chattel slavery has been remembered and memorialized in the United States. It constructs a narrative of the nation’s selective forgetting and obscuring of slavery. The United States worked to sever its present from the past of “our slavery days,” refusing to countenance any continuities. There was also a denial of the persistence of slavery-like labor forms within the United States. This was vocally and actively challenged, resisted, manipulated, and adapted by the African American community and its allies; the chapter also tells this story.
North Korean Slavery and Forced Labor in Present-Day Europe
Authors: Breuker Remco E.
Published: June 2023

This chapter deals with the practice of exploiting North Korean workers in the European Union through human trafficking, forced labor, and the suspension of most personal liberties. As a form of state-driven contemporary slavery, it starts from legal premises: the workers arrive with valid visas, residence permits, and work permits. They then find themselves in a miniaturized reproduction of North Korean society: with their minder came the entire socio-ideological structure of constraint—daily compulsory meetings, confession and criticism sessions, ideology instruction lectures, etc.—, which is recreated in situ in order to legitimize and make practically possible the extraction of labor and the removal of personal freedoms.
Conclusion: Situating Slavery Studies in the Field of Global History
Authors: Schiel Juliane
Published: June 2023

The chapters of this handbook presented slavery both as a global practice having existed from Old Babylonia to the present day and as an institution with globalizing effects connecting people, places, and commodities, sometimes over great distances. The contributions have shown how people have entered enslavement, been exploited as slaves, and attempted or managed to exit slavery across time and space. At any given time, people have been born into slavery and captured or kidnapped by soldiers, warriors, or pirates.
Rotationally invariant isospinning baby-skyrmions dressed by fermions
Authors: Barsanti Marco , Tallarita Gianni
Published: June 2023

Abstract

We couple Fermions to the isospinning (2+1) baby-skyrme model. We show that consistent rotationally invariant localised solutions can be found but the Fermionic solutions to the equations of motion are not in general eigenstates of the Hamiltonian. These do however become full eigenstates in a particular limit. We also find the corresponding Fermionic eigenstates of the Hamiltonian, for which our Fermion ansatz is also well suited. For localised Fermionic states, a novel constraint on the internal isospin frequency exists. Throughout our studies, we include the backreaction of the Fermions on the baby-skyrmion.
Meaning–thinking–AI
Authors: Soeffner Jan
Published: June 2023

This paper makes the case for a sharper terminology regarding AIs cognitive abilities. In arguing that thinking requires more than content production, I offer a definition of meaning drawing on a clear distinction between living and machine intelligence. A pivotal argument is the re-use of the Turing Test (TT) for understanding which theories of meaning and consciousness are no longer plausible—because they have been reproduced by software without thereby gaining conscious experience. In following the few theories that have not (yet) failed this reversed Turing Test (RTT), the focus turns towards rethinking the human condition in times of AI along the lines of three questions: What if a machine developed consciousness? What if AI proceeded without developing a consciousness? What, if machinic and human intelligence merged? These three questions in the end lead to examining three related possible futures of humanism as now determined by the relation between Human Intelligence and AI.
Super-resolution analysis via machine learning: a survey for fluid flows
Authors: Fukami Kai , Fukagata Koji , Taira Kunihiko
Published: June 2023

This paper surveys machine-learning-based super-resolution reconstruction for vortical flows. Super resolution aims to find the high-resolution flow fields from low-resolution data and is generally an approach used in image reconstruction. In addition to surveying a variety of recent super-resolution applications, we provide case studies of super-resolution analysis for an example of two-dimensional decaying isotropic turbulence. We demonstrate that physics-inspired model designs enable successful reconstruction of vortical flows from spatially limited measurements. We also discuss the challenges and outlooks of machine-learning-based super-resolution analysis for fluid flow applications. The insights gained from this study can be leveraged for super-resolution analysis of numerical and experimental flow data.

Graphical abstract
Normo‐or slightly overcorrection show better results after medial closing wedge high tibial osteotomy
Authors: Machado Axel , Micicoi Lolita , Ernat Justin , Schippers Philipp , Bernard de Dompsure Régis , Bronsard Nicolas , Gonzalez Jean‐François , Micicoi Grégoire
Published: June 2023

Purpose

The objectives of this study were to evaluate functional results, revision‐free survival, and the influence of postoperative alignment on outcomes after MCWHTO.

Methods

This retrospective study included 27 MCWHTO operated on from 2009 to 2021. Radiographic measurements were performed pre‐ and postoperatively.

The HKA (Hip‐Knee‐Ankle angle), MPTA (Medial Proximal Tibial angle), LDFA (Lateral Distal Femoral Angle), JLO (Joint Line Obliquity), and JLCA (Joint Line Convergence Angle) were evaluated. The Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), the International Knee Society (IKS) Function and Knee Score, and the Subjective Knee Value (SKV) as well as revision‐free survival were evaluated. Postoperative alignment and its influence on clinical outcomes were also analysed.

Results

The mean follow‐up was 61.9 months ± 31.4 (13–124). The HKA, MPTA, and JLCA angles were decreased post‐operatively (respectively, Δ = 5.9° ± 2.6, p < 0.001; Δ = 6.1° ± 3.2, p < 0.001 and Δ = 2.5° ± 1.9, p < 0.001). LDFA and JLO were unchanged, post‐operatively (respectively, Δ = 0.1° ± 2.2, p = 0.93 and Δ = 1.2° ± 3.3, p = 0.23). Postoperative HKA correlated with knee IKS (R = − 0.15, p = 0.04) and function IKS (R = − 0.44, p = 0.03). Postoperative LDFA correlated with knee IKS(R = 0.8, p < 0.01). Patients with postoperative HKA ≤ 180° had better KOOS (Δ = 12.3, p = 0.04) and IKS function (Δ = 28.1, p < 0.01) than those with HKA > 180°.

Conclusion

Functional results and revision‐free survival after MCWHTO are satisfactory when the deformity is located in the proximal tibia. The joint line obliquity is not significantly altered with small tibial correction and, obtaining an overall neutral or slightly varus alignment under the conditions of this study allowed an improvement in the postoperative clinical scores. The literature is still inconclusive on the ideal alignment for valgus deformities and larger series are needed to draw definitive conclusions.

Level of evidence

IV, case series.
A scoping review on quality assessment tools used in systematic reviews and meta-analysis of real-world studies
Authors: Gebrye Tadesse , Fatoye Francis , Mbada Chidozie , Hakimi Zalmai
Published: June 2023

Risk of bias tools is important in identifying inherent methodical flaws and for generating evidence in studies involving systematic reviews (SRs) and meta-analyses (MAs), hence the need for sensitive and study-specific tools. This study aimed to review quality assessment (QA) tools used in SRs and MAs involving real-world data. Electronic databases involving PubMed, Allied and Complementary Medicine Database, Cumulated Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, and MEDLINE were searched for SRs and MAs involving real-world data. Search was delimited to articles published in English, and between inception to 20 of November 2022 following the SRs and MAs extension for scoping checklist. Sixteen articles on real-world data published between 2016 and 2021 that reported their methodological quality met the inclusion criteria. Seven of these articles were observational studies, while the others were of interventional type. Overall, 16 QA tools were identified. Except one, all the QA tools employed in SRs and MAs involving real-world data are generic, and only three of these were validated. Generic QA tools are mostly used for real-world data SRs and MAs, while no validated and reliable specific tool currently exist. Thus, there is need for a standardized and specific QA tool of SRs and MAs for real-world data.
Time Averages and Periodic Attractors at High Rayleigh Number for Lorenz-like Models
Authors: Ovsyannikov Ivan , Rademacher Jens D. M. , Welter Roland , Lu Bing-ying
Published: June 2023

Revisiting the Lorenz ’63 equations in the regime of large of Rayleigh number, we study the occurrence of periodic solutions and quantify corresponding time averages of selected quantities. Perturbing from the integrable limit of infinite $$\rho $$
ρ
, we provide a full proof of existence and stability of symmetric periodic orbits, which confirms previous partial results. Based on this, we expand time averages in terms of elliptic integrals with focus on the much studied average ‘transport,’ which is the mode reduced excess heat transport of the convection problem that gave rise to the Lorenz equations. We find a hysteresis loop between the periodic attractors and the nonzero equilibria of the Lorenz equations. These have been proven to maximize transport, and we show that the transport takes arbitrarily small values in the family of periodic attractors. In particular, when the nonzero equilibria are unstable, we quantify the difference between maximal and typically realized values of transport. We illustrate these results by numerical simulations and show how they transfer to various extended Lorenz models.
Accuracy of prenatal detection of facial clefts and relation between facial clefts, additional malformations and chromosomal abnormalities: a large referral-center cohort
Authors: Vibert Florence , Schmidt Guel , Löffler Kerstin , Gasiorek-Wiens Adam , Henrich Wolfgang , Verlohren Stefan
Published: June 2023

Purpose

Facial clefts belong to the most common congenital malformations and their prenatal diagnosis is a constant challenge. The aim of this study was to determine the accuracy of prenatal ultrasound in correctly classifying facial clefts. Furthermore, we aimed to specify the distribution of the type of clefts and underlying genetic conditions.

Methods

All fetuses seen with suspected facial cleft in the Department of Obstetrics, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin during a period of 23 years (1999–2022) were included in this retrospective study. Clefts were classified according to the classification of Nyberg. All additional prenatal findings were assessed and correlated with the outcome. The accuracy of prenatal diagnosis was assessed.

Results

292 patients were included in the study. The most common type of clefts were unilateral cleft lip and palate (CL-P) (53.6%) and bilateral CL-P (30.6%), followed by CL (8.1%), CP (5.1%) and median CL-P (2.6%). The overall pre- and postnatal concordance rate corresponding to a correct prenatal diagnosis was high, 88.9%, ranging from 73.7% (CL) to 93.7% (unilateral CL-P). Most of the median clefts (95.2%) and CP (93.3%) were associated with other sonographic abnormalities, as well as 52.2% of bilateral CL-P. Chromosomal abnormalities, mostly trisomy 13 and trisomy 18, were observed in in the median CL-P (47.6%), bilateral CL-P (31.1%) and CP (26.7%) groups, in contrast to the CL (9.1%) and unilateral CL-P (12.9%) groups. It was exceptional to have a chromosomal abnormality without additional malformations (4.8%). The mortality rate including one late miscarriage, 5 IUFD’s, 74 TOPs and 6 palliative cares at birth was 29.8%, particularly high for median clefts (90.5%).

Conclusion

Prenatal ultrasound exhibited a high accuracy to assess the type of facial clefts with an average rate of 88.9% (73.7%–93.7%) and a concordance rate of up to 93.7%, depending on the type of cleft. The search for additional malformations as well as clarifying underlying genetic conditions is essential. This allows for a targeted counseling of the parents and to best prepare for postnatal care, including surgery by the maxillofacial team.
Developments in the classification and nomenclature of arthropod-infecting large DNA viruses that contain pif genes
Authors: van Oers Monique M. , Herniou Elisabeth A. , Jehle Johannes A. , Krell Peter J. , Abd-Alla Adly M.M. , Ribeiro Bergmann M. , Theilmann David A. , Hu Zhihong , Harrison Robert L.
Published: June 2023

Viruses of four families of arthropod-specific, large dsDNA viruses (the nuclear arthropod large DNA viruses, or NALDVs) possess homologs of genes encoding conserved components involved in the baculovirus primary infection mechanism. The presence of such homologs encoding per os infectivity factors (pif genes), along with their absence from other viruses and the occurrence of other shared characteristics, suggests a common origin for the viruses of these families. Therefore, the class Naldaviricetes was recently established, accommodating these four families. In addition, within this class, the ICTV approved the creation of the order Lefavirales for three of these families, whose members carry homologs of the baculovirus genes that code for components of the viral RNA polymerase, which is responsible for late gene expression. We further established a system for the binomial naming of all virus species in the order Lefavirales, in accordance with a decision by the ICTV in 2019 to move towards a standardized nomenclature for all virus species. The binomial species names for members of the order Lefavirales consist of the name of the genus to which the species belongs (e.g., Alphabaculovirus), followed by a single epithet that refers to the host species from which the virus was originally isolated. The common names of viruses and the abbreviations thereof will not change, as the format of virus names lies outside the remit of the ICTV.
Comparison of quantitative muscle ultrasound and whole-body muscle MRI in facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy type 1 patients
Authors: Fionda Laura , Vanoli Fiammetta , Di Pasquale Antonella , Leonardi Luca , Morino Stefania , Merlonghi Gioia , Lauletta Antonio , Alfieri Girolamo , Costanzo Rocco , Tufano Laura , Rossini Elena , Bucci Elisabetta , Grossi Andrea , Tupler Rossella , Salvetti Marco , Garibaldi Matteo , Antonini Giovanni
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Muscle ultrasound is a fast, non-invasive and cost-effective examination that can identify structural muscular changes by assessing muscle thickness and echointensity (EI) with a quantitative analysis (QMUS). To assess applicability and repeatability of QMUS, we evaluated patients with genetically confirmed facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy type 1 (FSHD1), comparing their muscle ultrasound characteristics with healthy controls and with those detected by MRI. We also evaluated relationships between QMUS and demographic and clinical characteristics.

Materials and methods

Thirteen patients were included in the study. Clinical assessment included MRC sum score, FSHD score and The Comprehensive Clinical Evaluation Form (CCEF). QMUS was performed with a linear transducer scanning bilaterally pectoralis major, deltoid, rectus femoris, tibialis anterior and semimembranosus muscles in patients and healthy subjects. For each muscle, we acquired three images, which were analysed calculating muscle EI by computer-assisted grey-scale analysis. QMUS analysis was compared with semiquantitative 1.5 T muscle MRI scale.

Results

All muscles in FSHD patients showed a significant increased echogenicity compared to the homologous muscles in healthy subjects. Older subjects and patients with higher FSHD score presented increased muscle EI. Tibialis anterior MRC showed a significant inverse correlation with EI. Higher median EI was found in muscles with more severe MRI fat replacement.

Conclusions

QMUS allows quantitative evaluation of muscle echogenicity, displaying a tight correlation with muscular alterations, clinical and MRI data. Although a confirmation on larger sample is needed, our research suggests a possible future application of QMUS in diagnosis and management of muscular disorders.
The floral biology and the role of staminal connective appendages during pollination of the endoparasite Bdallophytum americanum (Cytinaceae)
Authors: Rios-Carrasco Sandra , Sánchez Daniel , Ortega-González Pactli F. , Gutiérrez-Luna Morayna F. , Farfán-Beltrán Manuel Edday , Mandujano María C. , Vázquez-Santana Sonia
Published: June 2023

Bdallophytum americanum (Cytinaceae) is an endoparasitic plant species, meaning only the flowers emerge from the host during the reproductive season. Reports on the pollination biology of this species state that its primary pollinators are carrion flies attracted by the smell of the flowers and nectar as a reward. However, the functional role of one of the most outstanding attributes of B. americanum has been neglected. These are the staminal appendages formed by the apical overgrowth of connective tissue during anther development. To determine whether these staminal appendages play a role in pollination, we monitored a nectarless population of B. americanum. We described the inflorescence emergence, floral movements, and pollination and performed field experiments to test whether the absence of the staminal connective appendages affected the visitation frequency. Male inflorescences emerge early, and both male and female flowers open during the day and do not close. Hoverflies are the most frequent visitors to both floral sexes and carry the most pollen. Moreover, the movement of staminal appendages matching the pollen viability changes is reported for the first time. The staminal appendages are the structures where pollinators land before foraging. The field experiments showed that the visitation frequency decreased sharply without staminal appendages. As a landing platform, the staminal connective appendages in B. americanum are crucial for pollinator positioning and collecting viable pollen.
Conserved worker policing in African carpenter ants with drastically different egg chemotypes
Authors: Buellesbach Jan , Rinke Janina , Reuter Leonie , Thomas Jurian M. , Hartmann Vivien , Pohl Marius , Gadau Jürgen , Ernst Ulrich R.
Published: June 2023

Distinctive chemical signatures have the potential to serve as discriminatory cues for olfactory recognition mechanisms. Cuticular hydrocarbon (CHC) profiles are among the most prominent chemical signatures in insects that can be highly diverse even among closely related species and between populations with similar ecology. Particularly within the major insect order Hymenoptera, CHC profiles are characterized by high complexity and variation with the potential to evolve rapidly. In this study, we found two very distinct CHC chemotypes distinguishing sympatric colonies of the African carpenter ant Camponotus maculatus (Hymenoptera: Formicinae). These chemotypic differences were mainly detected on the surface profiles of eggs produced by either queens or isolated worker groups. In one chemotype, queen- and worker-laid eggs are very similar. This is largely contrasted by the other chemotype, where queen-laid eggs clearly differ from worker-laid eggs with several prominent queen-exclusive compounds. However, workers display a stable behavior of discriminating against and selectively disposing of worker-laid eggs i.e., worker policing, independent of egg chemotype. Furthermore, genetic barcoding of workers revealed a clear separation between colonies characterized by producing these two distinct egg chemotypes, which may indicate that these colonies belong to a cryptic species complex. Interestingly, worker policing behaviour appears to be evolutionarily conserved, despite the strikingly different egg surface profiles.
University lecturers’ conceptions of online teaching in distance education courses in Vietnamese higher education
Authors: Nguyen Uyen Nu Thuy , Kember David
Published: June 2023

This study aimed to characterise academics’ conceptions of teaching in fully online undergraduate distance education courses with no on-campus component. The study aimed to fill a gap in the literature, as previous research had examined conceptions of teaching in face-to-face courses, with a few studies of blended teaching via the Internet in on-campus courses. Fourteen academics from five faculties in a Vietnamese regional university were interviewed, with the study taking place shortly after the outbreak of Covid-19. Grounded theory was used for data analysis. The results revealed four categories of conceptions of online teaching, namely online teaching (1) as transmitting structured knowledge and skills, (2) as guiding students to acquire knowledge and skills, (3) as facilitating students’ understanding via interaction and (4) as developing students’ understanding and capabilities. The four categories of conceptions were defined and distinguished by a set of six dimensions, which included e-Learning/LMS. The set of categories had some similarities to those found for face-to-face teaching, but also some distinctions which could be explained by the nature of online teaching and learning. The study, therefore, makes a major contribution by establishing a category scheme for conceptions of teaching in online distance education, with detailed characterisation of the four categories of conceptions. The descriptors of the conceptions showed cultural influences, particularly from a Confucian heritage, which is of significance as research into face-to-face conceptions had not found cultural variations.
Active solar still with solar concentrating systems, Review
Authors: Mohammed Ahmed H. , Shmroukh Ahmed N. , Ghazaly Nouby M. , Kabeel Abd Elnaby
Published: June 2023

Clean water is quickly decreasing as the necessity for it rises year after year. Desalination of seawater is the only means to remedy this problem. The scientific community has focused on solar powered salty water desalination devices as a clean alternative throughout the last few decades. Solar stills convert solar energy into the heat required to generate clean water through the evaporation and condensation processes. The two very popular varieties of solar stills are active, and passive based on the heat source to evaporate the basin water, which can be either directly through the sun or indirectly using external heat sources such as concentrating collectors which are coupled with desalination units. This article provides an exhaustive analysis of active solar stills’ advancement with solar concentrating systems and techniques for improving performance, desalinated water production, efficiency, and maximum output. This work intends to keep researchers and the scientific community informed about developments in active solar stills equipped with solar concentrators.
Is Approximation of an Ideal Defensible?
Authors: Oba Dai
Published: June 2023

What role does our knowledge about the ideal society play in guiding policymaking in the real world? One intuitive answer is to approximate. Namely, we have a duty to approximate the ideal within the relevant constraints of feasibility. However, political philosophers seem to have what might be called ‘approximatophobia'. Many philosophers, including idealists such as David Estlund, warn against approximation. Their criticism is chiefly motivated by ‘the problem of second best’, which points out that your second-best option may not be closest to your best option. This paper aims to dispel ‘approximatophobia'. The difficulty posed by the problem of second best is often overstated. More positively, I present a novel defence of approximation, arguing that approximation of an ideal can be a reasonably reliable default strategy of action guidance in the real world. Difficulties that may afflict the project of approximation can be mitigated by sophistication of the project of approximation. After showing that critics of approximation overstep their mark in issuing the strong or moderate warning against approximation, I propose an account of sophisticated approximation. It seeks a series of reforms that make existing social institutions closer to the ideal based on careful selection of frame of analysis. Three virtuous correlations are identified as indicators for successful project of approximation, linking descriptive similarity to desirability, feasibility and knowledge of the ideal. I also explain a two-staged strategy of sophisticating the way you approximate the ideal, with an expected positive feedback effect.
Carbon disulfide removal from gasoline fraction using zinc-carbon composite synthesized using microwave-assisted homogenous precipitation
Authors: Sakr Ayat A.-E. , Amr Nouran , Bakry Mohamed , El-Azab Waleed I. M. , Ebiad Mohamed A.
Published: June 2023

Carbon disulfide (CS2) is one of the sulfur components that are naturally present in petroleum fractions. Its presence causes corrosion issues in the fuel facilities and deactivates the catalysts in the petrochemical processes. It is a hazardous component that negatively impacts the environment and public health due to its toxicity. This study used zinc-carbon (ZC) composite as a CS2 adsorbent from the gasoline fraction model component. The carbon is derived from date stone biomass. The ZC composite was prepared via a homogenous precipitation process by urea hydrolysis. The physicochemical properties of the prepared adsorbent are characterized using different techniques. The results confirm the loading of zinc oxide/hydroxide carbonate and urea-derived species on the carbon surface. The results were compared by the parent samples, raw carbon, and zinc hydroxide prepared by conventional and homogeneous precipitation. The CS2 adsorption process was performed using a batch system at atmospheric pressure. The effects of adsorbent dosage and adsorption temperatures have been examined. The results indicate that ZC has the highest CS2 adsorption capacity (124.3 mg.g−1 at 30 °C) compared to the parent adsorbents and the previously reported data. The kinetics and thermodynamic calculation results indicate the spontaneity and feasibility of the CS2 adsorption process.
Micro-meso-macroscale correlation mechanism of red-bed soft rocks failure within static water based on energy analysis
Authors: Liu Zhen , Liao Jin , Xia Chang , Zhou Cuiying , Zhang Lihai
Published: June 2023

The purpose of the present study is to fundamentally investigate the micro-meso-macroscale correlation mechanism of red-bed soft rocks failure within static water, based on energy analysis. Through a series of experimental studies, changes in the micro-meso-macroscale characteristics of the rocks were characterised by measuring ion concentrations in and pH of water, the pore structure and crack propagation. Based on the experimental measurements, theoretical modelling of micro-meso-macroscale energy conservation was carried out to determine the micro-meso-macroscale correlation mechanism of red-bed soft rocks failure. The results show that the microscale dominant effect of red-bed soft rocks is determined as chemical effects. The failure mechanism of red-bed soft rocks under static water saturation involves chemical, physical and mechanical dominant effects at the micro-meso-macroscale. It was demonstrated that the dominant chemical effect of clay minerals and water comprises a series of chemical energy changes in the microscale water–rock interface. This can induce the energy changes in both mesophysical and macromechanical levels. During the first month after the water saturation, there was a significant decrease in Na+ and K+ concentrations in aqueous solution, whereas there was little change in Ca+ and Mg2+ concentrations. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) images indicated an obvious change in microstructure of the red-bed soft rocks after 3 months of water saturation. A decrease in pore number and increase in total pore surface area could be seen after 6 months of water saturation. Furthermore, the theoretical results suggest that chemical effects at the microscale dominate the softening process of the rocks. During the water–rock interaction, nearly 80% of the energy dissipation results from the microscale change, and the meso-macroscale change accounts for the remaining 20%. As a uniform measure of material evolution, energy can correlate the micro-meso-macro dominant effect of red-bed soft rocks softening appropriately.
Ultravaluations and their Applications in $$\textsf{CPL}$$
Authors: Krawczyk Krzysztof A. , Piȩta Bożena
Published: June 2023

This paper introduces the construct of an ultravaluation inspired by the well-known ultraproduct. Basic properties and exemplary applications of this notion are shown: for compactness and definability theorems. We also use ultravaluations to check failure of compactness and undefinability.
Which patient benefit most from minimally invasive direct anterior approach total hip arthroplasty in terms of perioperative blood loss? A retrospective comparative study from a cohort of patients with primary degenerative hips
Authors: Brunello M. , Di Martino A. , Ruta F. , Ferri R. , Rossomando V. , D’Agostino C. , Pederiva D. , Schilardi F. , Faldini C.
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is a successful surgery, but despite the advancements in anesthesiology and orthopedics, sometimes blood transfusions are required to manage the anemia due to the blood loss, involving a substantial number of patients. The aim of this retrospective comparative study is to define how the choice of the surgical approach, either direct anterior (DA) or posterolateral (PL), may influence the postoperative blood loss and the need for transfusion in THA.

Materials and methods

Data collection was carried out retrospectively of THAs performed between 2016 and 2021 on primary hip osteoarthritis treated by DA or with PL approach. Clinical and perioperative anesthetic data were collected. Preoperative hemoglobin levels were compared with the lowest detected level by calculating ΔHb (hemoglobin decrease). Then, data from the two groups were cross-checked: duration of surgery, whether premedication with tranexamic acid, duration of the hospitalization, rate of need for hemotransfusions, and amount of blood transfused. The two samples were subdivided into subgroups according to age, BMI, tranexamic acid prophylaxis, and chronic treatment with drugs that alter coagulative properties.

Results

Time of surgery was longer for patients treated with DA access (mean DA: 78.8 min; mean PL: 74.8 min; p: 0.05; 95% CI), but the length of hospitalization was shorter for patients treated with DA group with a mean time of 6.23 days versus 7.12 days for the PL group (p < 0.01). DA THA resulted advantageous mainly in patients between 66 and 75 years, showing a reduced postoperative transfusion requirement in the postoperative period (DA: 13.43%—mean: 1.33 units; PL: 26.82%—mean: 1.18 units; p: 0.044, 95% CI). Patients that assume blood-altering drugs showed a higher transfusion rate (p < 0.01), but comparison of the two subgroups showed that the choice of the surgical approach did not significantly affect the transfusion rate in these patients (p: 0.512). Prophylaxis with tranexamic acid reduced the transfusion rate (p < 0.01).

Conclusion

Patients treated by minimally invasive direct anterior approach undergo a significantly shorter hospitalization. From the analysis of patient’s subgroups those aged between 66- and 75-years benefit from the DA approach mainly for the minor blood loss with less frequent transfusion requirement.
GREATCUBE+: conceptual design tool for CubeSat’s design
Authors: Girardello Carlo , Tajmar Martin , Scharlemann Carsten
Published: June 2023

CubeSats are a type of spacecraft which have become popular since the early 2000. They are known for their quick development time and low cost, when comparing them to larger satellites. However, there is a significant drawback which has been recorded during these years of operations, namely an high failure rate which turns almost half of them into space debris. The reasons behind these malfunctions are often attributed to flawed spacecraft design choices or failures of commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) products. To improve the design of CubeSats, several software tools for performing the conceptual design have been proposed. These tools are often limited in their capabilities and are not suitable for all types of CubeSat missions. To address this issue, the University of Applied Sciences Wiener Neustadt (FHWN) in cooperation with Technische Universität Dresden is developing a software tool called GREATCUBE+. Its goal is to increase the success rate of CubeSats by providing a satellite model which is composed of commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) products backed up by empirical heritage, analytical proof, and numerical analysis. One of the main features of this tool is the ability of dealing with different typologies of payloads. GREATCUBE+ has been validated with various successful CubeSat missions and it provides design solutions with an accuracy of above 90% when it comes to CubeSat weights and volumes. Using this software, CubeSat design teams can proceed from the conceptual development to the testing and assembly phases quicker, hoping to result in higher quality CubeSats and fewer failures.
Modern treatment strategies in pediatric oncology and hematology
Authors: Adamczewska-Wawrzynowicz Katarzyna , Wiącek Anna , Kozłowska Aleksandra , Mikosza Klaudia , Szefler Lidia , Dudlik Weronika , Dey Shreya , Varghese Noel , Derwich Katarzyna
Published: June 2023

Every year, approximately 400 00 children worldwide are diagnosed with cancer. Although treatment results in most types of childhood neoplasms are excellent with survival more than 80%, there are some with poor prognosis. Also recurrent and resistant to treatment childhood cancer remain a therapeutic challenge. Besides chemotherapy, which has been the basis of cancer therapy for years, molecular methods and precisely targeted therapies have recently found their usage. As a result of that, survival has improved and has positively impacted the rate of toxicities associated with chemotherapy (Butler et al. in CA Cancer J Clin 71:315–332, 2021). These achievements have contributed to better quality of patients' lives. Current methods of treatment and ongoing trials give hope for patients with relapses and resistance to conventional chemotherapy. This review focuses on the most recent progress in pediatric oncology treatments and discusses specific therapy methods for particular cancers types of cancer. Targeted therapies and molecular approaches have become more beneficial but research need to be continued in this field. Despite significant breakthroughs in pediatric oncology in the last few years, there is still a need to find new and more specific methods of treatment to increase the survival of children with cancer.
M1A and m7G modification-related genes are potential biomarkers for survival prognosis and for deciphering the tumor immune microenvironment in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Wang Ruixi , Cheng Xingyuan , Chi Dongmei , Liu Shiliang , Li Qiaoqiao , Chen Baoqing , Xi Mian
Published: June 2023

Background

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is the most common esophageal malignancy, and RNA methylation has been reported to be involved in the tumorigenesis of ESCC. However, no study has explored methylation modifications in m1A and m7G as prognostic markers for survival prediction in ESCC.

Methods

Public gene-expression data and clinical annotation of 254 patients obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas and the Gene Expression Omnibus databases were analyzed to identify potential consensus clusters of m1A and m7G modification-related genes. The RNA-seq of 20 patients in Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center was used as the validation set. Following screening for relevant differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and enrichment pathways were elucidated. DEGs were used to construct risk models using the randomForest algorithm, and the prognostic role of the models was assessed by applying Kaplan–Meier analysis. Extent of immune cell infiltration, drug resistance, and response to cancer treatment among different clusters and risk groups were also evaluated.

Results

Consensus clustering analysis based on m1A and m7G modification patterns revealed three potential clusters. In total, 212 RNA methylation-related DEGs were identified. The methylation-associated signature consisting of 6 genes was then constructed to calculate methylation-related score (MRScore) and patients were dived into MRScore-high and MRScore-low groups. This signature has satisfied prognostic value for survival of ESCC (AUC = 0.66, 0.67, 0.64 for 2-, 3-, 4- year OS), and has satisfied performance in the validation SYSUCC cohort (AUC = 0.66 for 2- and 3-year OS). Significant correlation between m1A and m7G modification-related genes and immune cell infiltration, and drug resistance was also observed.

Conclusions

Transcriptomic prognostic signatures based on m1A and m7G modification-related genes are closely associated with immune cell infiltration in ESCC patients and have important correlations with the therapeutic sensitivity of multiple chemotherapeutic agents.