bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Young adults with vision impairment in India: Loneliness and social networks
Authors: Gothwal Vijaya K. , Kanchustambam Jahnavi , Kodavati Krishnapriya , Subramanian Ahalya
Published: April 2024

Purpose

To examine the prevalence of loneliness and associated factors in young adults with vision impairment (VI), including quality of life (QoL) in India.

Methods

Two hundred and three VI young adults (18–35 years) and 219 age‐matched non‐VI (controls) adults completed the loneliness scale, WHOQOL‐BREF, Social Network Index (SNI) (network diversity, people in network size and number of embedded network subscales) and questions regarding sociodemographic characteristics and independent mobility. Rasch analysis was used to validate the questionnaires and interval‐level scores were generated. Generalised linear models were used to estimate independent associations of sociodemographic factors, VI characteristics, social networks and QoL with loneliness.

Results

The prevalence of moderate and severe loneliness in the VI group was 10% (95% CI: 6.5, 15.4) and 4.4% (95% CI: 2.0, 8.2), respectively, and higher than that of controls. The VI group had a worse loneliness score than controls (−1.66 ± 2.25 vs. −2.13 ± 1.85 logits; p = 0.03). Those with ≤12 years and >12 years of education had loneliness scores of −1.58 ± 2.45 and −1.82 ± 1.99 logits, respectively (p = 0.01). Compared with controls, the VI group reported fewer extended family members, neighbours and friends leading to significantly smaller networks and network diversity (all p < 0.001). Loneliness scores demonstrated a significant correlation with only two SNI subscales for both groups: people in network size (r = −0.28 for VI; r = −0.30 for non‐VI; p < 0.001 for both) and number of embedded networks (r = −0.22 for VI; r = −0.21 for non‐VI; p = 0.002 for both). Both education (β = 0.45; p = 0.04) and QoL (β = −0.27, p = 0.02) were predictors of loneliness.

Conclusions

Loneliness was commonly experienced by young VI adults and was higher among those with lower levels of education. Loneliness decreased with the presence of a larger number of people in network, suggesting that interventions to increase social activity and participation may be valuable in young VI adults.
The growth promotion in endophyte symbiotic plants does not penalise the resistance to herbivores and bacterial microbiota
Authors: Zhang Wei , Gundel Pedro E. , Jáuregui Ruy , Card Stuart D. , Mace Wade J. , Johnson Richard D. , Bastías Daniel A.
Published: April 2024

A trade‐off between growth and defence against biotic stresses is common in plants. Fungal endophytes of the genus Epichloë may relieve this trade‐off in their host grasses since they can simultaneously induce plant growth and produce antiherbivore alkaloids that circumvent the need for host defence. The Epichloë ability to decouple the growth‐defence trade‐off was evaluated by subjecting ryegrass with and without Epichloë endophytes to an exogenous treatment with gibberellin (GA) followed by a challenge with Rhopalosiphum padi aphids. In agreement with the endophyte‐mediated trade‐off decoupling hypothesis, the GA‐derived promotion of plant growth increased the susceptibility to aphids in endophyte‐free plants but did not affect the insect resistance in endophyte‐symbiotic plants. In line with the unaltered insect resistance, the GA treatment did not reduce the concentration of Epichloë‐derived alkaloids. The Epichloë mycelial biomass was transiently increased by the GA treatment but at the expense of hyphal integrity. The response of the phyllosphere bacterial microbiota to both GA treatment and Epichloë was also evaluated. Only Epichloë, and not the GA treatment, altered the composition of the phyllosphere microbiota and the abundance of certain bacterial taxa. Our findings clearly demonstrate that Epichloë does indeed relieve the plant growth‐defence trade‐off.
The Interplay of Climate and Disaster in Men's Stories of the 2016 Kaikōura Earthquake in Aotearoa New Zealand1
Authors: Rushton Ashleigh , Phibbs Suzanne , Kenney Christine , Anderson Cheryl
Published: April 2024

This paper contributes to the emerging field of men, masculinities, and disasters by drawing on narratives of men's accounts of the 2016 Kaikōura earthquake, including how stories of the earthquake intersect with experiences and understandings of extreme weather and climate change. A qualitative methodology was employed, and semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 19 men who experienced the 7.8 magnitude earthquake. This article offers an examination of the complexity of disaster experiences and recovery, as well as how people make sense of hazards and risks. We argue that ongoing exposure to climate hazards informed participant's responses to other infrequent natural hazard events, such as the Kaikōura earthquake. The research identified that men construct their own understandings and responses to natural hazards through a hierarchy of risk perception and probability based on personal experience.
Integration analysis of single‐cell transcriptome reveals specific monocyte subsets associated with melanoma brain and leptomeningeal metastasis
Authors: Liu Tao , Liu Jian‐Ping
Published: April 2024

Background

Melanoma central nervous system (CNS) metastasis remains a leading cause of patient mortality, and the underlying pathological mechanism has not been fully elucidated, leading to a lack of effective therapeutic strategies.

Materials and Methods

In this study, we conducted an integrated analysis of single‐cell transcriptomic data related to melanoma brain metastasis (MBM) and leptomeningeal metastasis (LMM). We focused on differences of subset composition and molecular expression of monocytes in blood, primary tumor, brain metastases, and leptomeningeal metastases.

Results

Significant differences were observed among monocytes in blood, primary tumor, and different CNS metastatic tissues, particularly in terms of subset differentiation and gene expression patterns. Subsequent analysis revealed the upregulation of cell proportions of six monocyte subsets in brain metastasis and leptomeningeal metastasis. Based on differential gene analysis, four of these subsets exhibited increased expression of factors promoting tumor migration and survival, including AREG+ monocytes (AREG, EREG, THBS1), FABP5+ monocytes (SPP1, CCL2, CTSL), and CXCL3+ monocytes (CXCL3, IL8, IL1B). The proportions of TPSB2+ monocytes (IL32, CCL5) were notably elevated in melanoma leptomeningeal metastasis tissues. Pathway analysis indicated the activation of signaling pathways such as NOD‐like receptors, NFκB, and Toll‐like receptors in these metastasis‐related subsets.

Conclusion

Our findings elucidate that AREG+, FABP5+ and CXCL3+ monocytes are associated with brain metastasis and TPSB2+ monocytes are associated with leptomeningeal metastasis in melanoma, which may be contribute to the development of therapeutic strategies focusing on monocytes or cytokines for melanoma CNS metastasis.
Detectable plasma severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 spike antigen is associated with poor antibody response following third messenger RNA vaccination in kidney transplant recipients
Authors: Karaba Andrew H. , Swank Zoe , Hussain Sarah , Chahoud Margaret , Durand Christine M. , Segev Dorry L. , Robien Mark A. , Heeger Peter S. , Larsen Christian P. , Tobian Aaron A. R. , Walt David R. , Werbel William A.
Published: April 2024

Background

Kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) generate lower antibody responses to messenger RNA (mRNA)‐based severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) vaccination, yet precise mechanisms for this poor response remain uncertain. One potential contributor is suboptimal spike antigen (sAg) translation and expression owing to transplant immunosuppression, which might lead to insufficient exposure to develop humoral and/or cellular immune responses.

Methods

Within a single‐arm clinical trial, 65 KTRs underwent ultrasensitive plasma sAg testing before, and 3 and 14 days after, the third mRNA vaccine doses. Anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 spike antibodies (anti‐receptor binding domain [anti‐RBD]) were serially measured at 14 and 30 days post‐vaccination. Associations between sAg detection and clinical factors were assessed. Day 30 anti‐RBD titer was compared among those with versus without sAg expression using Wilcoxon rank sum testing.

Results

Overall, 16 (25%) KTRs were sAg positive (sAg+) after vaccination, peaking at day 3. Clinical and laboratory factors were broadly similar in sAg(+) versus sAg(‐) KTRs. sAg(+) status was significantly negatively associated with day 30 anti‐RBD response, with median (interquartile range) 10.8 (<0.4–338.3) U/mL if sAg(+) versus 709 (10.5–2309.5) U/mL if sAg(‐) (i.e., 66‐fold lower; p = .01).

Conclusion

Inadequate plasma sAg does not likely drive poor antibody responses in KTRs, rather sAg detection implies insufficient immune response to rapidly clear vaccine antigen from blood. Other downstream mechanisms such as sAg trafficking and presentation should be explored.

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Complementation and Lebesgue‐type decompositions of linear operators and relations
Authors: Hassi S. , de Snoo H. S. V.
Published: April 2024

In this paper, a new general approach is developed to construct and study Lebesgue‐type decompositions of linear operators or relations in the Hilbert space setting. The new approach allows to introduce an essentially wider class of Lebesgue‐type decompositions than what has been studied in the literature so far. The key point is that it allows a nontrivial interaction between the closable and the singular components of . The motivation to study such decompositions comes from the fact that they naturally occur in the corresponding Lebesgue‐type decomposition for pairs of quadratic forms. The approach built in this paper uses so‐called complementation in Hilbert spaces, a notion going back to de Branges and Rovnyak.
Enhancing Robotic Grasping Detection Accuracy With the R2CNN Algorithm and Force-Closure
Authors: Lin Hsien-I , Shodiq Muhammad Ahsan Fatwaddin , Chu Hong-Qi
Published: April 2024

This study aims to use an improved rotational region convolutional neural network (R2CNN) algorithm to detect the grasping bounding box for the robotic arm that reaches supermarket goods. This algorithm can calculate the final predicted grasping bounding box without any additional architecture, which significantly improves the speed of grasp inferences. In this study, we added the force-closure condition so that the final grasping bounding box could achieve grasping stability in a physical sense. We experimentally demonstrated that deep model-treated object detection and grasping detection are the same tasks. We used transfer learning to improve the prediction accuracy of the grasping bounding box. In particular, the ResNet-101 network weights, which were originally used in object detection, were used to continue training with the Cornell dataset. In terms of grasping detection, we used the trained model weights that were originally used in object detection as the features of the to-be-grasped objects and fed them to the network for continuous training. For 2828 test images, this method achieved nearly 98% accuracy and a speed of 14–17 frames per second.
Updating Nonlinear Stochastic Dynamics of an Uncertain Nozzle Model Using Probabilistic Learning With Partial Observability and Incomplete Dataset
Authors: Capiez-Lernout Evangéline , Ezvan Olivier , Soize Christian
Published: April 2024

This article introduces a methodology for updating the nonlinear stochastic dynamics of a nozzle with uncertain computational model. The approach focuses on a high-dimensional nonlinear computational model constrained by a small target dataset. Challenges include the large number of degrees-of-freedom, geometric nonlinearities, material uncertainties, stochastic external loads, underobservability, and high computational costs. A detailed dynamic analysis of the nozzle is presented. An updated statistical surrogate model relating the observations of interest to the control parameters is constructed. Despite small training and target datasets and partial observability, the study successfully applies probabilistic learning on manifolds (PLoM) to address these challenges. PLoM captures geometric nonlinear effects and uncertainty propagation, improving conditional mean statistics compared to training data. The conditional confidence region demonstrates the ability of the methodology to accurately represent both observed and unobserved output variables, contributing to advancements in modeling complex systems.
Hole Edge Metrology and Inspection by Edge Diffractometry
Authors: Lu Kuan , Lee ChaBum
Published: April 2024

This article introduces a novel hole edge inspection and metrology technology by edge diffractometry, which occurs when light interacts with the hole edge. The proposed method allows for simultaneous characterization of hole part error and edge roughness conditions. Edge diffraction occurs as light bends at a sharp edge. Such a diffractive fringe pattern, the so-called interferogram, is directly related to edge geometry and roughness. Image-based diffractometry inspection technology was developed to capture the diffractive fringe patterns. The collected fringe patterns were analyzed through statistical feature extraction methods, and numerical results such as roundness index, concentricity, and via edge roughness (VER) were obtained. The results indicated that hole 1 had an average VER of 0.665 μm and a roundness index of 0.95, while hole 2 was measured an average VER of 0.753 μm and a roundness index of 0.96. Through-focus scanning optical microscopy (TSOM) was also utilized to perform three-dimensional characterization of hole features along the depth direction. As a result, the proposed method could characterize hole part error and evaluate its roughness conditions. This study showed the potential to be adapted for automatic optical inspection for advancing microelectronics and semiconductor packaging technology.
High-frequency optimally windowed chirp rheometry for rapidly evolving viscoelastic materials: Application to a crosslinking thermoset
Authors: Athanasiou Thanasis , Geri Michela , Roose Patrice , McKinley Gareth H. , Petekidis George
Published: April 2024

Knowledge of the evolution in the mechanical properties of a curing polymer matrix is of great importance in composite parts or structure fabrication. Conventional rheometry, based on small amplitude oscillatory shear, is limited by long interrogation times. In rapidly evolving materials, time sweeps can provide a meaningful measurement albeit at a single frequency. To overcome this constraint, we utilize a combined frequency- and amplitude-modulated chirped strain waveform in conjunction with a homemade sliding plate piezo-operated rheometer (PZR) and a dual-head commercial rotational rheometer (Anton Paar MCR 702) to probe the linear viscoelasticity of these time-evolving materials. The direct controllability of the PZR, resulting from the absence of any kind of firmware and the microsecond actuator-sensor response renders this device ideal for exploring the advantages of this technique. The high frequency capability allows us to extend the upper limits of the accessible linear viscoelastic spectrum and, most importantly, to shorten the length of the interrogating strain signal (OWCh-PZR) to subsecond scales, while retaining a high time-bandwidth product. This short duration ensures that the mutation number (NMu) is kept sufficiently low, even in fast-curing resins. The method is validated via calibration tests in both instruments, and the corresponding limitations are discussed. As a proof of concept, the technique is applied to a curing vinylester resin. The linear viscoelastic (LVE) spectrum is assessed every 20 s to monitor the rapid evolution in the time and frequency dependence of the complex modulus. Comparison of the chirp implementation, based on parameters such as duration of the experiment, sampling frequency, and frequency range, in a commercial rotational rheometer with the PZR provides further information on the applicability of this technique and its limitations. Finally, FTIR spectroscopy is utilized to gain insights into the evolution of the chemical network, and the gap dependence of the evolving material properties in these heterogeneous systems is also investigated.
Leadership Theory and Ownership Succession in the National Football League: The Case of the Cincinnati Bengals
Authors: Smith Daryl R. , Hasselfeld Kimberly A.
Published: April 2024

The fans in Cincinnati are in an uproar. They have just witnessed another disappointing football season, the 23rd since Mike Brown became the owner of the team. Mike Brown’s tenure has been marked by historically poor performance with eight and nine straight game losing streaks to begin the season on multiple occasions. To make matters worse, this was the same number of seasons that his father and Hall of Famer, Paul Brown, owned the team. Where Paul Brown’s tenure had been marked by record ascendence to the playoffs and two Super Bowl trips, his son’s tenure was notable primarily for seasonal failure. In the minds of the fans and press, the two eras of ownership could not be more starkly different. Both are now calling for wholesale changes to the leadership or the sale of the team. Students should examine these claims and both eras of ownership using transformational and charismatic leadership theories, Collins’ Genius with a Thousand Helpers leadership model, and family-owned business succession perspectives. Do the fans and press have a right to be angry and demand a change in leadership?
Learning to Integrate STEM Into Physical Education Through Asynchronous Professional Development Modules
Authors: Marttinen Risto , Banville Dominique , Holincheck Nancy , Ferrer Lindsay Vernise June , Stehle Stephanie
Published: April 2024

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to understand nine physical education (PE) teachers’ experiences with an asynchronous professional development module focused on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) integration, and the barriers they perceived to integrating STEM into PE. Methods: Semistructured interviews, pre- and post open-ended questionnaires, and discussion board posts were analyzed through a collaborative coding process. Trustworthiness was increased by using a peer debriefer, multiple coders, negative case checks, and data triangulation. Results: Four themes describe the experiences of PE teachers learning to integrate STEM into PE: teacher’s knowledge about technology and STEM, barriers to PE teachers in integrating STEM, “We’re already integrating STEM,” and issues in professional development. Discussion/Conclusion: STEM integration is possible if PE teachers are provided time and opportunities to work with content experts to learn STEM concepts and have STEM be a by-product of PE lessons rather than the sole focus of the lesson.
Evaluation and activity of new porphyrin-peptide cage-type conjugates for the photoinactivation of
Mycobacterium abscessus
Authors: Alcaraz Matthéo , Lyonnais Sébastien , Ghosh Chandramouli , Aguilera-Correa John Jairo , Richeter Sébastien , Ulrich Sébastien , Kremer Laurent
Published: April 2024

Mycobacterium abscessus
is increasingly recognized as an emerging opportunistic pathogen causing severe lung diseases and cutaneous infections. However, treatment of
M. abscessus
infections remains particularly challenging, largely due to intrinsic resistance to a wide panel of antimicrobial agents. New therapeutic alternatives are urgently needed. Herein, we show that, upon limited irradiation with a blue-light source, newly developed porphyrin-peptide cage-type photosensitizers exert a strong bactericidal activity against smooth and rough variants of
M. abscessus
in planktonic cultures and in biofilms, at low concentrations. Atomic force microscopy unraveled important morphological alterations that include a wrinkled and irregular bacterial surface. The potential of these compounds for a photo-therapeutic use to treat
M. abscessus
skin infections requires further evaluations.

IMPORTANCE

Mycobacterium abscessus
causes persistent infections and is extremely difficult to eradicate. Despite intensive chemotherapy, treatment success rates remain very low. Thus, given the unsatisfactory performances of the current regimens, more effective therapeutic alternatives are needed. In this study, we evaluated the activity of newly described porphyrin-peptide cage-type conjugates in the context of photodynamic therapy. We show that upon light irradiation, these compounds were highly bactericidal against
M. abscessus in vitro
, thus qualifying these compounds for future studies dedicated to photo-therapeutic applications against
M. abscessus
skin infections.
The use of faecal microbiota transplant as treatment for recurrent or refractory
Clostridioides difficile
infection and other potential indications: second edition of joint British Society of Gastroenterology (BSG) and Healthcare Infection Society (HIS) guidelines
Authors: Mullish Benjamin H , Merrick Blair , Quraishi Mohammed Nabil , Bak Aggie , Green Christopher A , Moore David J , Porter Robert J , Elumogo Ngozi T , Segal Jonathan P , Sharma Naveen , Marsh Belinda , Kontkowski Graziella , Manzoor Susan E , Hart Ailsa L , Settle Christopher , Keller Josbert J , Hawkey Peter , Iqbal Tariq H , Goldenberg Simon D , Williams Horace R T
Published: April 2024

The first British Society of Gastroenterology (BSG) and Healthcare Infection Society (HIS)-endorsed faecal microbiota transplant (FMT) guidelines were published in 2018. Over the past 5 years, there has been considerable growth in the evidence base (including publication of outcomes from large national FMT registries), necessitating an updated critical review of the literature and a second edition of the BSG/HIS FMT guidelines. These have been produced in accordance with National Institute for Health and Care Excellence-accredited methodology, thus have particular relevance for UK-based clinicians, but are intended to be of pertinence internationally. This second edition of the guidelines have been divided into recommendations, good practice points and recommendations against certain practices. With respect to FMT for
Clostridioides difficile
infection (CDI), key focus areas centred around timing of administration, increasing clinical experience of encapsulated FMT preparations and optimising donor screening. The latter topic is of particular relevance given the COVID-19 pandemic, and cases of patient morbidity and mortality resulting from FMT-related pathogen transmission. The guidelines also considered emergent literature on the use of FMT in non-CDI settings (including both gastrointestinal and non-gastrointestinal indications), reviewing relevant randomised controlled trials. Recommendations are provided regarding special areas (including compassionate FMT use), and considerations regarding the evolving landscape of FMT and microbiome therapeutics.
Novel mutation leading to splice donor loss in a conserved site ofDMDgene causes Duchenne muscular dystrophy with cryptorchidism
Authors: Chen Jianhai , Jia Yangying , Zhong Jie , Zhang Kun , Dai Hongzheng , He Guanglin , Li Fuping , Zeng Li , Fan Chuanzhu , Xu Huayan
Published: April 2024

Background

As one of the most common congenital abnormalities in male births, cryptorchidism has been found to have a polygenic aetiology according to previous studies of common variants. However, little is known about genetic predisposition of rare variants for cryptorchidism, since rare variants have larger effective size on diseases than common variants.

Methods

In this study, a cohort of 115 Chinese probands with cryptorchidism was analysed using whole-genome sequencing, alongside 19 parental controls and 2136 unaffected men. Additionally, CRISPR-Cas9 editing of a conserved variant was performed in a mouse model, with MRI screening used to observe the phenotype.

Results

In 30 of 115 patients (26.1%), we identified four novel genes (ARSH,DMD,MAGEA4andSHROOM2) affecting at least five unrelated patients and four known genes (USP9Y,UBA1,BCORL1andKDM6A) with the candidate rare pathogenic variants affecting at least two cases. Burden tests of rare variants revealed the genome-wide significances for newly identified genes (p<2.5×10−6) under the Bonferroni correction. Surprisingly, novel and known genes were mainly found on X chromosome (seven on X and one on Y) and all rare X-chromosomal segregating variants exhibited a maternal inheritance rather than de novo origin. CRISPR-Cas9 mouse modelling of a splice donor loss variant inDMD(NC_000023.11:g.32454661C>G), which resides in a conserved site across vertebrates, replicated bilateral cryptorchidism phenotypes, confirmed by MRI at 4 and 10 weeks. The movement tests further revealed symptoms of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) in transgenic mice.

Conclusion

Our results revealed the role of theDMDgene mutation in causing cryptorchidism. The results also suggest that maternal-X inheritance of pathogenic defects could have a predominant role in the development of cryptorchidism.
Failing kidneys: renal replacement therapies in the ICU
Authors: Patel Purvi Pravinchandra , Egodage Tanya
Published: April 2024

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is one of the most common organ dysfunctions impacting ICU (intensive care unit) patients. Early diagnosis using the various classification systems and interventions that can be aided by use of biomarkers are key in improving outcomes. Once the patient meets criteria of AKI, many patient specific factors determine the optimal timing for and mode of renal replacement therapy. There are several special considerations in surgical ICU patients with AKI including management of intracranial hypertension in those with cerebral edema, anticoagulation in high-risk bleeding patients, and use of contrast imaging. This article provides a focused review of the essential aspects of diagnosis and management of AKI in the critically ill or injured surgical patient.
Backed into a corner: damage control surgery in the rural or austere setting
Authors: Turner Jason , Wilson Alison
Published: April 2024

Damage control surgery has evolved during the past 40 years. The initial cases and studies were performed at level 1 trauma centers but has now shifted to damage control at smaller hospitals. This buys time for definitive care at higher-level centers. There is a role for damage control surgery in both general surgery and trauma patients at community trauma centers. The successful implementation and completion of damage control surgery require thorough planning and a full understanding of resource limitation. Additional training or practice for infrequently performed procedures may be necessary. A systems-based approach with postoperative transfer to a higher level of care is acceptable and expected.
You’ve Been Served, Now What? Malpractice tips and prevention for the acute care surgeon
Authors: Vail Sydney , Martin Matthew J
Published: April 2024

Trauma and acute care surgeons commonly perform high acuity and emergent interventions on critically ill or injured patients. This often entails making life or death decisions rapidly and with incomplete and imperfect information, and in patients who may have a variety of comorbidities that contribute to the risk of adverse outcomes. In cases where there are real or perceived breaches of care, a medical malpractice claim may result. In the USA, approximately one-third to one-half of all physicians will be named in medical litigation at least once in their career. Among the various specialties, surgery remains among the highest risk for malpractice litigation, at an average of 10.6 defendants per 100 surgeons. These events can be extremely stressful, demoralizing, or even devastating to the career and well-being of the involved physicians. This can be made better or worse by the individual response and actions of the surgeon on notification of a real or potential claim, and the primary goal of this review is to highlight these key areas and optimal strategies in malpractice scenarios. This includes strategies to manage the initial receipt of a malpractice claim, subsequent courses of action, and advice for incorporating preventive measures into everyday practice.
NixFe100-x for urea and oxygen evolution: a matter of compromise
Authors: Ruscica Noah , Clark Rylan , Stuart Jordan , Mason Aaron , Bennett Craig , Bertin Erwan
Published: April 2024

The combination of aqueous electrolysis, either for hydrogen generation or CO2 conversion, with wastewater treatment offers an elegant way to tackle issues associated with our energy transition and the need for clean drinking water. However, it requires an anode capable of doing both the oxidation of the targeted pollutant and the oxygen evolution reaction (OER), as most pollutants are present in too low concentration to be practical for industrial electrolysis. In this study, we focussed on the oxidation of urea on NixFe100-x catalysts. These catalysts were prepared by pulsed laser ablation in liquid, a versatile and green technique to prepare electrocatalysts. Transmission electron microscopy of the nanoparticles indicates the production of monodisperse nanoparticles, with an average diameter increasing from 7.8 ± 2.8 to 19.7 ± 3.9 nm with a higher iron fraction. The composition could be controlled between pure Ni and NiFe bimetallic nanoparticles with up to 56 ± 3% of iron, by controlling the composition of the target. A brief optimisation of the electrode preparation (loading, catalyst-to-carbon ratio) yielded an optimum at about 30 µg/cm2 of catalyst with a catalyst-to-carbon ratio of 20:80. During the electrocatalytic tests, Ni was the best catalyst for urea oxidation, with a maximum peak current of 619 mA/mg. However, Ni75Fe25 was the best OER catalyst, showing a peak current of 1150 mA/mg. The difference increased further during CA at 0.5 V, during which Ni75Fe25 outperformed pure Ni by almost a factor of 3 after 30 min.
Geochronology, geochemistry, and Hf isotope of quartz monzonite and diorite in dachaigou, the East Kunlun orogenic belt, China, and their geological significance
Authors: Sun Yaming , Li Bile , Li Peng , Li Chengxue , Li Zhihua , Shi Yufan
Published: April 2024

This study focuses on quartz monzonite and diorite plutons in Dachaigou, East Kunlun, examining their formation, age, petrogenesis, magmatic source, and tectonic setting. Through comprehensive field observations, zircon geochronology, geochemistry, and Hf isotope analysis, new insights into the Paleozoic tectonic evolution of the proto-Tethys Ocean in the East Kunlun orogenic belt are provided. Zircon U–Pb dating reveals that quartz monzonite and diorite formed at 417.4 ± 2.1 and 404.6 ± 1.8 Ma, respectively. Geochemical analysis shows that the A/CNK value of quartz monzonite ranges from 0.98 to 1.07, with the Pb content proportional to SiO2, which aligns with the characteristics of I-type granite. The εHf(t) values for quartz monzonite and diorite are −0.84 to 2.2 and −13.22 to 2.04, respectively. Considering the formation age, geochemical characteristics, and regional tectonic evolution, it is concluded that quartz monzonite has a crust-derived origin, whereas diorite has a crust–mantle mixing origin. Both were formed in a post-collision extensional tectonic setting resulting from slab break-off, implying the Proto-Tethys Ocean East Kunlun entered a post-collisional extension stage in the Late Silurian–Early Devonian.
Complementarity of Hf isotopes from detrital and igneous zircon: an example from the Central Gneiss Belt, Grenville Province, Ontario
Authors: Slagstad Trond , Easton Robert Michael , Huyskens Magdalena , Culshaw Nicholas
Published: April 2024

Combined U–Pb and Hf isotopic analysis of detrital and igneous zircon provides information about variations in crustal addition versus reworking through time. However, whereas detrital zircon data from only a few samples can provide information about extended periods of orogenic activity, this approach lacks the geological context that comes with studying igneous zircon and may not record mid- and deep-crustal sources or sources isolated from sites of deposition. Conversely, igneous zircon is likely to miss sources that were removed by later tectonic activity, but which may be preserved in the detrital record. The Central Gneiss Belt of the southwest Grenville Province in Ontario has a relatively well-understood orogenic architecture and records active-margin growth and reworking between ca. 1900 and 1200 Ma. We present U–Pb and Hf isotope data of zircon from 30 orthogneiss samples ranging in age from ca. 1750 to 1250 Ma, covering all tectonostratigraphic levels of the Central Gneiss Belt. As expected, the detrital and igneous datasets display many of the same overall features, such as crustal growth along the southwest Laurentian active margin; however, there are also some distinct differences. In particular, sedimentation appears to have taken place near the active margin, with little or no input from distal inboard sources, thus missing this significant component of reworked crust. This study highlights the need for a combination of detrital and igneous samples to provide the most complete picture of long-lived accretionary orogenic systems.
Mating disruption alters the rate of development in an aphidophagous ladybird Propylea dissecta (Mulsant)
Authors: Gupta Dipali , Mishra Geetanjali
Published: April 2024

Ladybird beetles like many other organisms show developmental rate polymorphism in response to various abiotic and biotic factors. Since mating disruption acts as a stressor, we decided to study its impact on the occurrence of developmental rate polymorphs in ladybird beetle, Propylea dissecta Mulsant, 1850 (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae). Ten-day-old females were subjected to mating disruptions at 120, 180 min, and complete mating (211 ± 8.1 min) and then provided with optimum diet of Aphis craccivora Koch. Larvae in each treatment were reared individually and newly emerged adults were assessed on the basis of their developmental durations. They were separated into two lines: slow and fast developers. Extended mating duration was found to be correlated to increased immature survival and reduced offspring development times. Also, in complete mating treatment, percentage of fast developers were more in numbers; thus, mating duration increased the availability of sperm for females and seminal fluid may have boosted maternal protein reserves, which can then be used to produce offspring of better quality. Mating disruption might be a factor reducing the chances of fertilization success and offspring development in P. dissecta.
Thyroid and contralateral breast surface dose variation in mammography: a phantom study on the role of breast tissue composition
Authors: Ekinci Fatih , Aşlar Engin
Published: April 2024

The organs of the thyroid and contralateral breast can be exposed to radiation because of scattered x-rays during mammography. It is important to determine the dose values of these quantities in terms of the risk of triggering a second cancer induction for both organs. In the present study, thyroid and contralateral breast surface doses were investigated with LiF:Mg,Ti (TLD-100) dosimeters for three types of BR-12 phantoms with glandularity/fat tissue ratios (70%/30%, 50%/50% and 30%/70%) over four views as in the real patient situation in Mo/Mo and Mo/Rh anode/filter combinations in each phantom thickness as opposed to a single glandular/fat tissue commonly used in the literature. Both thyroid and contralateral surface doses increased with increasing both phantom thickness and glandularity/fat ratio. The thyroid surface doses changed within 0.06–0.18 mGy and 0.05–0.14 mGy according to phantom thickness of 2 to 6 cm for the glandularity/adipose of 50%/50% in the Mo/Mo and Mo/Rh, respectively. On the other hand, the contralateral breast surface doses were within 0.35–1.39 mGy and 0.40–0.99 mGy for 50%/50% in the Mo/Mo and Mo/Rh, respectively. Based on a 70%/30% breast composition with a phantom thickness of 6 cm, the thyroid and contralateral breast surface doses increased by approximately 40% compared with 50%/50% for both Mo/Mo and Mo/Rh. These results showed that both thyroid and contralateral breast surface doses significantly depend on the glandularity/fat composition of the breast. Therefore, the outputs of this study may contribute to future studies aimed at reducing the doses received by organs during examination.
Unveiling nuclear isomers through multiple-reflection time-of-flight mass spectrometry
Authors: Dickel Timo , Mollaebrahimi Ali
Published: April 2024

Nuclear isomers, the excited meta-stable states of nuclei, offer profound insights into nuclear structure. This article reviews the intersection of nuclear isomer research with mass spectrometry methodologies, particularly focusing on novel capabilities of the multiple-reflection time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MR-TOF-MS) technique. Through a comprehensive examination of established methods for isomer identification and characterization, alongside the technical principles underlying MR-TOF-MS, this review discusses the pivotal role of mass spectrometry in advancing our understanding of nuclear isomers. The operational principles and recent developments in MR-TOF-MS technology are explained and exemplified through case studies from prominent research facilities. Furthermore, this work discusses ongoing efforts to enhance sensitivity, resolution, and measurement capabilities in MR-TOF-MS, promising continued advancements in nuclear physics research and applications.
Research on the Application of Improved Apriori Algorithm in Sport-Adaptive Online Teaching System Under Big Data Environment
Authors: Yang Yan , Fan Jingang , Liu Jiabao
Published: April 2024

Each student in an adaptive education system has significant differences in knowledge background, ability level and cognitive style. Therefore, to build an adaptive teaching system, it is necessary to establish an operable, reasonable and individualized student model by clarifying students’ abilities and differences. The improved Apriori algorithm under big data is the most classic association rule algorithm, which is generated by a set of candidates, and it uses the iterative method of hierarchical search to traverse a set of frequency items in the transaction database. After finding the set of frequency items, select the association according to the trust rules. This paper studies how to apply the improved Apriori algorithm to an adaptive online education system in a big data environment. An evolutionary algebra is taken with mean fit of 80, population size of 20, mean fit of 0.28, population size of 60, mean fit of 0.26, population size of 80, mean fit of 0.25, mean population size of 0.25. The population size is 200, and the average fitting is 0.24. The larger the error, the smaller the error between each indicator of the test paper and the corresponding value specified by the user. The improved Apriori algorithm in the big data environment has designed five themes of rule mining, which are mainly used for class management: class linkage, class category linkage, student basic information linkage, lecture and basic information linkage, and lecture mode linkage. They play the role of teaching assistants with a specific role.
Hydroporphyrin-BODIPY arrays
Authors: Ptaszek Marcin , Meares Adam , Ansteatt Sara
Published: April 2024

Arrays composed of BODIPY and hydroporphyrin (chlorin or bacteriochlorin) components feature multiple strong absorption bands across visible and near-IR regions, efficient energy transfer from BODIPY to hydroporphyrin moiety, and strong deep-red or near-IR emission. These properties make such arrays attractive candidates for a variety of applications, particularly in solar energy conversion and biomedicine. In this review, the molecular design, synthesis, and photophysical properties of BODIPY-hydroporphyrin arrays are described. Their applications as fluorescent probes for in vivo imaging are also discussed.
A bithiophene-substituted porphyrin displaying multi-electron redox processes as a cathode for lithium organic batteries
Authors: Chowdhury Shagor , Jana Saibal , Klayatskaya Svetlana , Ruben Mario
Published: April 2024

A non-metallated porphyrin, 5,15-di([2,2′-bithiophen]-5-yl)-10,20-diphenylporphyrin (BTPP) has been synthesized and utilized as an electrode material for lithium organic batteries (LOBs). Benefiting from the bipolar characteristics of the porphyrin core and extended [Formula: see text]-conjugation with bithiophene units, BTPP displayed as cathode material a discharge capacity of 128 mAh. g[Formula: see text] at a current density of 0.2 A. g[Formula: see text], with an average discharge voltage of 3.2 V and showed a good rate capability. At a high current density of 10 A. g[Formula: see text], it delivered a discharge capacity of 32 mAh. g[Formula: see text].
Order-Guided Non-Conservative Maximum Flow in Uncertain Network Interdiction Problem with Budget Constraint
Authors: Pangeni Badri Prasad , Dhamala Tanka Nath
Published: April 2024

Probability theory in decision science fails in the absence of sufficient data. In these situations, uncertainty theory is applied to the problem-solving process, taking into account the opinions of the domain experts. In order to minimize the maximum flow carried by the evader, we describe an interdiction problem in an uncertain network with intermediate storage and resource constraints. Such approaches would help law enforcement combat drug-related and smuggling activities.

This work first converts the bi-level deterministic conservative model of the interdictor vs evader problem (IEP) into a non-conservative deterministic IEP. With intermediate storage, a binary interdiction variable, and an interdiction resource constraint, the model is further transformed into an uncertain measure-based model. Then, utilizing uncertainty theory, the uncertain model is again converted into its deterministic equivalent. We have presented two techniques to identify the arc that the interdictor needs to block and to direct the order-guided maximum flow that the evader needs to deliver to the target. The models’ and algorithms’ efficacy is confirmed by an example. Lastly, a graphic representation of the shifting trend of the value of the objective function (VOF) is shown for a range of confidence levels.
Replication in Requirements Engineering: The NLP for RE Case
Authors: Abualhaija Sallam , Aydemir F. Basak , Dalpiaz Fabiano , Dell'Anna Davide , Ferrari Alessio , Franch Xavier , Fucci Davide
Published: April 2024

Natural language processing (NLP) techniques have been widely applied in the requirements engineering (RE) field to support tasks such as classification and ambiguity detection. Despite its empirical vocation, RE research has given limited attention to replication of NLP for RE studies. Replication is hampered by several factors, including the context specificity of the studies, the heterogeneity of the tasks involving NLP, the tasks’ inherent
hairiness
, and, in turn, the heterogeneous reporting structure. To address these issues, we propose a new artifact, referred to as
ID-Card
, whose goal is to provide a structured summary of research papers emphasizing replication-relevant information. We construct the
ID-Card
through a structured, iterative process based on design science. In this article: (i) we report on hands-on experiences of replication; (ii) we review the state-of-the-art and extract replication-relevant information: (iii) we identify, through focus groups, challenges across two typical dimensions of replication: data annotation and tool reconstruction; and (iv) we present the concept and structure of the
ID-Card
to mitigate the identified challenges. This study aims to create awareness of replication in NLP for RE. We propose an
ID-Card
that is intended to foster study replication but can also be used in other contexts, e.g., for educational purposes.
Digital Cellulose: Recent Advances in Electroactive Paper
Authors: Brooke Robert , Jain Karishma , Isacsson Patrik , Fall Andreas , Engquist Isak , Beni Valerio , Wågberg Lars , Granberg Hjalmar , Hass Ursula , Edberg Jesper
Published: April 2024

With the increasing global demand for net-zero carbon emissions, actions to address climate change have gained momentum among policymakers and the public. The urgent need for a sustainable economy is underscored by the mounting waste crisis in landfills and oceans. However, the proliferation of distributed electronic devices poses a significant challenge due to the resulting electronic waste. To combat this issue, the development of sustainable and environmentally friendly materials for these devices is imperative. Cellulose, an abundant and CO2-neutral substance with a long history of diverse applications, holds great potential. By integrating electrically interactive components with cellulosic materials, innovative biobased composites have been created, enabling the fabrication of bulk electroactive paper and the establishment of new, potentially more sustainable manufacturing processes for electronic devices. This review explores recent advances in bulk electroactive paper, including the fundamental interactions between its constituents, manufacturing techniques, and large-scale applications in the field of electronics. Furthermore, it addresses the importance and challenges of scaling up production of electroactive paper, highlighting the need for further research and development.
The Sociology of Police Behavior
Authors: Ray Rashawn , Powelson Connor , Fuentes Genesis , Doan Long
Published: April 2024

Black Americans are 3.5 times and Black teenagers are 21 times more likely to be killed by police than their White counterparts. Generally, protective factors such as social class do little to reduce this disparity, as high-income Black Americans are just as likely to be killed by police as low-income Black Americans. Given these outcomes, it is unsurprising that the bulk of sociological research on policing examines disparities in policing outcomes between Black and Brown communities and individuals and their White counterparts. We begin by outlining this important research. In addition to focusing on the consequences of (over)policing, sociologists can make unique contributions to our understanding of the empirical limitations of contemporary policing data and the macro-, meso-, and micro-level mechanisms that contribute to policing inequalities. While we draw upon some research in other disciplines, sociologists can and should do more in these areas. Accordingly, the end of this review focuses on future directions and theoretical possibilities by centering emerging research that pivots sociology to a more direct focus on overcoming the methodological limits of police research and contributing to meaningful behavioral, organizational, and policy changes.
Presynaptic Proteins and Their Roles in Visual Processing by the Retina
Authors: Thoreson Wallace B. , Zenisek David
Published: April 2024

The sense of vision begins in the retina, where light is detected and processed through a complex series of synaptic connections into meaningful information relayed to the brain via retinal ganglion cells. Light responses begin as tonic and graded signals in photoreceptors, later emerging from the retina as a series of spikes from ganglion cells. Processing by the retina extracts critical features of the visual world, including spatial frequency, temporal frequency, motion direction, color, contrast, and luminance. To achieve this, the retina has evolved specialized and unique synapse types. These include the ribbon synapses of photoreceptors and bipolar cells, the dendritic synapses of amacrine and horizontal cells, and unconventional synaptic feedback from horizontal cells to photoreceptors. We review these unique synapses in the retina with a focus on the presynaptic molecules and physiological properties that shape their capabilities.