bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors associating with bone-only metastasis in Chinese breast cancer patients in the absence of anti-HER2 targeted therapy
Authors: Li Zhensheng , Chen Liang , Han Huina , Shang Yuguang , Li Yue , Jia Zhifeng , Liu Yunjiang
Published: December 2024

Introduction:
Bone-only metastasis (BOM) is a distinct clinical phenomenon in which cancer cells disseminate exclusively to the bone, without involvement of other distant organs. We investigated the factors associated with the BOM state vs. other states of metastasis in breast cancer patients with bone metastasis (BM) at their first relapse. The results could help tailor the screening and preventive therapy strategies for BM in breast cancer.
Methods:
The study included 231 women who underwent mastectomy for primary unilateral non-metastatic breast cancer in 1997 or later and were subsequently diagnosed with BM at first relapse in 2008 – 2018 at the Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University in China. Factors such as patient age at primary breast cancer diagnosis, tumor clinicopathological characteristics, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, endocrine therapy (ET), time to progression (TTP), and others were analyzed. ET compliance was categorized from medication adherence. Multivariate logistic regression was used to estimate the odd ratio (OR) and p value.
Results:
Only three (3.8%, 3/79) HER2-positive (HER2+) breast cancer patients (n = 79) used anti-HER2 targeted agents in the adjuvant setting. After excluding them, the remaining 228 patients were analyzed. They had an average age 47.3 years and median TTP 29.4 months at their first relapse. Overall, patients with BOM accounted for 26.8%. The BOM state was similarly in the hormone receptor-positive (HR+) patients (n = 182) and in the HR-negative (HR–) patients (n = 45) (28.6% vs 17.8%, p = 0.142). However, it was significantly lower in the HER2+ patients (n=76) than in the HER2-negative (HER2–) patients (n = 129) (13.2% vs. 31.8%, p = 0.003). Multivariate analyses showed that BOM was not associated with the HR+ (vs. HR–, OR 1.253, p = 0.723) and full ET compliance (vs. no/partial, OR 1.346, p = 0.545) status. Nonetheless, the BOM state was significantly associated with a lower chancer in the HER2+ patients d with a lower chance of BOM overall (OR 0.240, p = 0.008) and in the HR+ patients (OR 0.145, p = 0.005) but not in the HR– patients (OR 1.012, p = 0.991) than one in the HER2– patients. A lower chance of BOM state was also associated with TTP ≥ 24 months (p < 0.05). There were no other associated factors identified.
Conclusion:
Differently from HR status and other clinicopathological factors, the HER2+ status is associated with a lower chance of the BOM state in breast cancer patients with first BM. Such association appears to be reflected in HR+ patients only.
Individual differences in vicarious pain as a shift in the self–other boundary
Authors: Li Mengze , Racey Chris , Bouyagoub Samira , Critchley Hugo D. , Ward Jamie
Published: December 2024

There is inconsistent evidence concerning whether physical pain and vicarious pain share neural resources. This may reflect different methodological approaches (e.g., univariate vs. multivariate fMRI analyses) and/or participant characteristics. Here we contrast people who report experiencing pain when seeing others in pain (vicarious pain responders) with non-responders (who do not report pain). Cues indicated the level and location of an electrical shock delivered to the participant (self) or experimenter (other), with behavioural ratings and neural responses (fMRI) obtained. Non-responders tend to rate their own pain as worse than others given identical cues, whereas responders show greater similarity between self and other ratings. Univariate neuroimaging analyses showed activity in regions of the pain matrix such as insula, mid-cingulate, and somatosensory cortices contrasting physical versus vicarious pain, and when regressing the level of self-pain. But these analyses did not differ by group. Multivariate analyses, by contrast, revealed several group differences. The ability to classify self versus other was less accurate in the vicarious pain responders (in the same regions implicated in the univariate analyses of physical pain). In conclusion, the degree of shared neural responses to physical and vicarious pain is increased in vicarious pain responders consistent with the notion of differences in the self–other boundary.
Investigation on the Properties of Methyl 4-(((1-H benzo[d]imidazol-2-yl) methyl)thio)methyl)Benzoate on Aluminum Corrosion in Acidic Environment
Authors: Toure Rokia , Koffi Aphouet , Tigori Mougo , Niamien Paulin
Published: December 2024

Organic inhibitors are crucial for preserving metals from corrosion in acidic environments. In this regard, the methyl 4-(((1-H benzo[d]imidazol-2-yl)methyl)thio)methyl)benzoate (M-41HBI-2MTMB) was synthesized and investigated as an eco-friendly inhibitor for aluminum in a molar nitric acid solution (1 M HNO3). The gravimetric technique was used to study the inhibitory properties of the molecule, and the density functional theory (DFT) was conducted to elucidate the corrosion inhibition mechanism. The experimental data indicated that M-41HBI-2MTMB reduced the corrosion of the metal with a significant inhibition efficiency. The corrosion inhibition increased with an increase in the concentration of the molecule, reaching an efficiency of 98.5% at a concentration of 5.10-3 M, and a temperature of 298 K. Adsorption isotherms and thermodynamic parameters were studied to elucidate the interactions between M-41HBI-2MTMB and the metal surface. The inhibitor adsorbed spontaneously onto the aluminum surface following the Villamil model (modified Langmuir isotherm). Additionally, the Gibbs free energy less than - 40 kJ.mol-1 and the negative value of the enthalpy of adsorption suggested mixed-type adsorption with a predominance of physical interactions. The theoretical findings of DFT calculations revealed a positive fraction of electrons transferred (ΔN = 0.247 eV), a high value of the electrophilicity index (ω = 3.807 eV) as well as a low energy gap (ΔE = 4.478 eV) showing favorable interactions of M-41HBI-2MTMB with its environment. The active sites of the molecule were highlighted at the level of carbon atoms, and a corrosion inhibition mechanism was proposed.
Evaluation of Neem (Azadirachta indica) Seed Extract Against Fall Armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in Maize Fields
Authors: Kebede Megersa , Getu Emana , Wakgari Mulatu , Kassie Ashenafi , Goftishu Muluken , Fite Tarekegn
Published: December 2024

The increasing trends of damage to staple crops as well as the economic losses due to the fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda), the notorious invasive insect pests prompted to devise effective pest management in colonized regions to ensure sustainable crop health. Deploying bioactive plant material is among the novel eco-friendly approaches to managing insect pests in maize agro-ecosystems. Therefore, the present study was conducted to determine the efficacy of neem seed extracts against S.frugiperda under field conditions at Babile, eastern Ethiopia. A total of 8 treatments, including 6 different neem seed extracts, Megathrin 0.5 L/ha, and un-sprayed (untreated) plots were set up in randomized complete block design with three replications to evaluate their efficacy against S.frugiperda in maize fields. Results showed that S.frugiperda infestation was significantly influenced by the treatments both at 32 days after sowing (DAS) and 39 DAS, however, a non-significant difference was observed at 25 DAS. Moreover, except for the number of rows per ear, all crop parameters were significantly influenced by the treatments. Notably, the treatments reduced S.frugiperda incidence and severity and achieved higher crop performance over untreated maize plants. Between 3.9% to 25.7% and 0.0% to 19.6%, reductions were recorded for S.frugiperda incidence at 32 DAS and 39 DAS, respectively, compared to untreated plants. Similarly, 22.7% to 47.7% and 33.8% to 46.2% reductions were observed for S.frugiperda severity at 32 DAS and 39 DAS, respectively. The highest grain yield (36.4 Qt/ha) was obtained from neem @ 75 gm/Lx3, which was followed by Megathrin 0.5 L/ha (31.9 Qt/ha), neem @ 62.5gm/Lx3 (31.6Qt/ha) and neem @ 75gm/Lx2 (31.2 Qt/ha), while significantly the lowest grain yield (21.8 Qt/ha) was obtained from untreated maize plants. Results indicated that the field application of neem seed extracts resulted in a significant reduction of S.frugiperda infestation and provided considerable yield advantages as compared to untreated plants. Hence, the promising efficacy of the locally available botanical insecticide could provide an opportunity to deploy it against S.frugiperda as an eco-friendly approach, although further study is needed to validate the findings of the present study across seasons and agroecologies.
Three-Phase Induction Motor Control and Monitoring Using VFD and ESP32 Based on Modbus RTU Protocol
Authors: Marzuki Achmad , Muzakkir Taufik , Arief Muhammad
Published: December 2024

The use of energy in industrial processes is required to be efficient to reduce production costs as low as possible. In general, an industry relies heavily on three-phase induction motors. In its operation, the induction motor is operated in such a way that the energy usage is not maximized, so it is more efficient. To achieve this goal, the industry has used VFD (Variable Frequency Drive) to regulate the speed of induction motors according to the desired needs as well as to avoid "magnetic weak and saturation" conditions in the motor. This paper presents a Learning module for control and monitoring of 3-phase induction motor using Microcontroller embedded WIFI (ESP32), a VFD, and Modbus RTU protocol. The existence of this learning module will be helpful to control and view the motor parameters globally and easily. The presence of Esp32 provides convenience and flexibility for control designers to provide a cheaper control system, more speed process (2 processor), and be adaptive to future needs. Another advantage of this design model is that a user is given a choice of two user friendly applications, namely WhatsApp and Blynk IoT for giving users or students more enjoyable in learning control engineering. However, selecting the type of access application in an industrial environment must be done appropriately by considering network latency, stability, safety, feasibility, and the capability to overcome potential server failures. Regarding the use of VFD on a three-phase induction motor, an initial testing should be done to determine the maximum frequency that can be applied to achieve the motor's nominal current according to its nameplate (in this experiment, the maximum motor frequency is 40 Hz). Such testing is necessary to avoid more severe damage and can extend the motor's operational lifespan.
Modulated Ammonia Volatilization from Coated Nitrogen Fertilizer and Wheat Productivity on Phosphorus Amended Alkaline Soils Involving 15N Tracer Technique
Authors: Ashraf Arooba , Akhtar Muhammad , Hernandez Vicente , Ejaz Amjad , Wanek Wolfgang , Yaqub Muhammad
Published: December 2024

The nitrogen (N) fertilizers are markedly lost as ammonia volatilization from alkaline soils and hence is deemed as major cause of lower N utilization by field crops. The current study explored possible measures to reduce N loss from applied fertilizer and enhance its availability to wheat crop grown on alkaline soil. The treatments involved Zinc-coated (1% Zn) urea [ZnU] and sole urea applied/incubated with soil at recommended rate (RR) and 80% RR after further coating with inhibitors [NBPT at 1% or ATC at 2% urea]. Compared to sole urea, ZnU showed lower N loss in laboratory environment; whereas in field trials on wheat crop, ZnU (at 80% of RR) along with NBPT produced similar wheat yield as produced by RR of sole urea application. Phosphorus application further enhanced wheat biomass (1.03 and 1.04 kg m-2) and grain yield (0.362 and 0.407 kg m-2) at half (23 kg ha-1) and full P rate (46 kg ha-1) as applied with ZnU, respectively. Whereas, the ZnU80 coated with NBPT produced highest NUE (62.8%) when applied with full P rate, followed by half P application rate (NUE=58.7%). Another collateral study proved the significance of P application (0, 15, 30 and 45 mg P kg-1) in improving NUE (15-20%) in wheat at similar N application as (15NH4)2SO4. Overall, the studies clearly suggest that appropriate N management reduces N losses, improves nutrient uptake and yield parameters of wheat crop grown on alkaline soil.
Genetic Variability and Character Association Analysis for Yield and Its Related Traits in Rain Fed Lowland Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Genotypes at Teppi and Fogera, Ethiopia
Authors: Aklilu Mequannit , Alameraw Sentayehu , Dessie Abebaw
Published: December 2024

In Ethiopia, rice variety development started very recently and is mainly dependent on the introduction breeding materials in which characterization and understanding of the genetic variability of genotypes is the critical step. Knowledge of the extent of genetic variability and interrelationships of yield and yield components is pre-request for designing an effective selection-based rice improvement programs for evolving high yielding rice genotypes. Therefore, this study was carried out with all objectives of assessing genetic variation for yield and yield related traits in lowland rice genotypes. Thirty-six selected lowland rice genotypes were evaluated in simple lattice design with two replications during 2017 cropping season and data on 15 quantitative morphological traits were collected and subjected to various statistical analysis. Combined analysis of variance across location revealed significant location, genotype and genotype × location interaction effects for the traits evaluated at p ≤0.01. The phenotypic coefficient of variation was high for un fertile tiller per plant (88.16 %), followed by infertile grain per panicle (50.66%), and grain yield (21.57%), and the genotypic coefficient of variation was high for un fertile tiller per plant (50.38 %), followed by infertile grain per panicle (27.22%), and culm length (17.7%). The estimate of broad sense heritability ranges from 15.2% for biological yield to 91.5% for plant height. The expected genetic advance as present of mean varied from 5.42% for biological yield to 59.3% for unfertile tiller per plant. Phenotypic and genotypic correlation revealed grain yield had a a significant and positive association with primary branches per panicle (rp=0.4, rg=0.7), fertile grain per panicle (rp=0.5, rg=0.72) and harvest index (rp=0.76, rg=0.73) at both genotypic and phenotypic. Path coefficient analysis of grain yield revealed that harvest index, total tiller per plant and thousand grain weights showed positive phenotypic direct effect. A Positive direct effect was found for total tiller per plant, harvest index and biological yield at genotypic level. The present study indicated sufficient genetic variability for the characters studied in rain fed low land rice genotype, which will create opportunity for future improvement. To have full scale data, further study at various locations and years with the help of molecular techniques should be done.
The Ideology of Reform and Historical Criticism Between Secular Islamic Thought and Fundamentalist Islamic Thought (Ahmad Amin, and Sayyid Qutb) Model
Authors: Elnakep Mohamed , Branca Paolo , Elgeidi Shalabi
Published: December 2024

Reform is a call for renewal and modernity, therefore. Much study and refutation were attributed to it, in comparison with others, it always needs to be set and defined, that’s not for its difficulty but it’s connected to its concept with the ideologies of its advocates and their projection of its connotations and meanings on the contents of their projects and visions. For this reason, reform advocates had a dilemma in defining this concept accurately. This dilemma has dimensions that made it more obvious, by shedding light on the Ideology of reform and historical criticism. The research focused on two great thinkers with different ideologies. Ahmad Amin began his journey through research and exploration of the historical, religious, and intellectual life of the Arabs and produced several historical writings that reflect his ideology in the field of reform and historical criticism. But Sayyid Qutb had a classical fundamentalist tendency that was later translated into Qutbist thought, which was adopted by some Islamic groups, and from whose texts they took ideas for building their structure. The different vision between secular, "rational" Islam and fundamentalist, "extremist" Islam lies in the reformist and critical visions of each of the two trends. It can be said that historical reform and criticism of Ahmad Amin had a character that relied on reason before transmission and sifting through historical and classical texts. As for reform in Sayyid Qutb, it was a longing for the era of early Islam and a view of society as ignorant and far from monotheism, and that it must be reformed by reviving faith in it once again. Qutb showed this clearly in his writings and followed this approach in the process of historical criticism.
Assessing the Impact of Precision Farming Technologies: A Literature Review
Authors: Idier Hayat , Dehhaoui Mohammed , Maatala Nassreddine , Kadi Kenza
Published: December 2024

Climate change, population growth, and economic shocks govern a context where food security and economic sustainability represent major challenges for the agricultural sector. Research for innovative production systems that ensure a better allocation of resources is a necessity to provide the foundations for farm reconversion. In this way, we carried out our work relating to precision farming, which is one of the innovative approaches aimed at ensuring the sustainability of agricultural production systems, thanks to its application principles and potential benefits. This synthesis paper examines aspects of assessing the impact of the use of such technology by analyzing previous research. The analysis carried out showed that the study of the impact of the use of precision technologies focused on three essential components on a micro-economic scale: the economic component, the environmental component, and the agronomic component. Prior studies examining the advantages of precision technologies have mostly relied on the examination of experiments and the application of quantitative analysis methods to measure the impact on environmental, economic, and agronomic parameters. The results of the study demonstrated that the adoption of precision farming technologies has provided advantages that contribute to the sustainability of agricultural production systems. Specifically, reducing environmental impact, cutting GHG (greenhouse gases) emissions by over 80%, valorizing natural resources (water and soil) with irrigation water savings of over 26%, and improving production efficiency and effectiveness. However, we suggest further studies examining the effects of precision agriculture using an integrated approach to assess the agronomic, economic, environmental, and social aspects of a production system as a whole. These studies will provide recommendations for adapting precision agriculture technologies to a wide range of farm types. In turn, highlighting the benefits of using precision farming technologies will support the process of adoption by farmers. The overview and findings presented in this article should point researchers in the direction of further research into precision farming technologies and provide extension staff, farm advisors, and farm machinery dealers with guidelines for promoting the adoption of precision farming.
Comparison of Concurrent Radar and Aircraft Measurements in Florida Thunderstorm Cirrus Anvils
Authors: Gapp Nicholas J. , Delene David J. , Schmidt Jerome M. , Harasti Paul R.
Published: December 2024

Concurrent measurements of anvil cirrus clouds are obtained using the highly instrumented North Dakota Citation Research Aircraft and the Cloud and Precipitation Radar with Discrete Hydrometeor Detection (CPR-HD), a C-band, high-resolution radar on the Atlantic coast of Florida. The CPR-HD alternatively transmits two waveforms, a lower-resolution (narrowband) beam and a high-resolution (wideband) beam with along-beam range resolutions of 34 and 0.5 m, respectively. A specialized operating strategy allows the range windows of the CPR HD to lock onto the Citation Research Aircraft using downlinked position information and track the aircraft in real time for the duration of the flight, providing nearly concurrent in situ and remote observations in space and time. Radar reflectivity factor with uncertainty is calculated using a combined particle size spectrum obtained from in situ cloud probes. Comparing the derived reflectivity factor to the observed wideband reflectivity factor for the 1 August 2015 flight shows that 84% of the 1-s-averaged data agree within their respective uncertainties across the sampled range from −15 to 20 dBZ. Uncertainties within the analyzed cases are ±2.6 dBZ on average for derived reflectivity factor and ±3.0 dBZ for the wideband reflectivity factor. A derived relationship between CPR-HD reflectivity factor and particle mass allows vertical profiles of water content in cirrus anvil clouds to be determined from CPR-HD observations with a known uncertainty.
Exploring the Intrinsic Predictability Limit of a Localized Convective Rainfall Event near Tokyo, Japan, Using a High-Resolution EnKF System
Authors: Honda Takumi
Published: December 2024

Severe weather related to convective clouds can greatly affect society. Accurately predicting such events is challenging due to the small-scale, nonlinear, rapid increase in forecast errors at the convective scale. Such error growth would strictly limit convective-scale predictability, even if nearly perfect initial and boundary conditions and models are available. This study investigates the intrinsic predictability limit of a localized convective rainfall event in Japan using a high-resolution ensemble Kalman filter (EnKF) system that assimilates phased-array weather radar observations. Analyzed ensemble initial conditions are rescaled to reflect a nearly perfect or a practical level of initial-condition uncertainty. High-resolution ensemble forecasts reveal that the intrinsic predictability limit of the target convective precipitation event could be longer than 20 min, while its current practical predictability limit is likely no more than 10 min. This difference indicates significant potential for improving forecast accuracy in the current numerical weather prediction system. Further ensemble forecasts indicate that reducing initial-condition uncertainty in wind variables could be more beneficial for improving forecast accuracy than doing so in precipitation-related variables.

Significance Statement

While it is known that predicting localized torrential precipitation related to convective clouds is challenging, our understanding of their predictability limits is still limited. This study investigates the predictability limits of a localized precipitation event through high-resolution simulations. We assessed the intrinsic predictability limit for the target event under idealized initial conditions with minimal uncertainty. We found that the intrinsic predictability limit could be much longer than the practical predictability limit. Our results indicate that reducing initial-condition uncertainty in wind could be more effective for improving forecast accuracy than doing so in precipitation-related variables.
A Water Mass Balance–Based Procedure Using ERA5 Land Reanalysis and Level Observation to Reconstruct the Past Level Changes of Closed Lakes toward Future Management
Authors: Saraceni Miriam , Brunone Bruno , Silvestri Lorenzo , Meniconi Silvia , Bongioannini Cerlini Paolina
Published: December 2024

This paper aims to refine an effective procedure to reconstruct the past level changes of closed lakes, as a tool for future management. In most cases, such water bodies are overlooked (particularly when they are small), even if they play a significant role in local communities from the economic and social points of view. In this perspective, this study explores the potential of using reanalysis data, as a single source of data to compute the lake water mass balance, and water level observations. It focuses on some closed lakes with minimal anthropogenic influence in Europe, Africa, and the United States. The number of cases studied is limited by the fact that a significant time series of water levels is difficult to obtain for small lakes. The research leverages ERA5 Land (ERA5L), the land component of ERA5 reanalysis, incorporating the Freshwater Lake (FLake) model. FLake allows simulation of the interaction of inland water bodies with the atmosphere. The use of ERA5L is preceded by data validation by considering satellite observation. To simulate the water mass balance of the selected lakes, the proposed procedure combines precipitation, runoff, and evaporation from the lake, provided by ERA5L, and the lake water level observations. The results indicate that even with a short time series of water level observations, a good agreement (Pearson coefficient ranging from 50% to 90%) between the observed monthly variation of the lake level and the corresponding values of the water storage, computed by using ERA5L, is achieved. The procedure exhibits adaptability and robustness, with an accurate representation of the lake water level trends. However, occasional discrepancies are noted during specific periods, primarily attributed to ERA5L precipitation biases. The proposed procedure can be used only when lake water level observations are available. This limits the number of lakes that it can be applied to. However, the procedure can be applied even with a short time series of data, without the need for additional ground-based or remotely sensed data to compute the water mass balance.

Significance Statement

This study employs ERA5L reanalysis data and lake level observations to effectively reconstruct the natural variability of closed lake water levels in some monitored lakes in Europe, Africa, and the United States. Results demonstrate the adaptability and robustness of the proposed procedure in capturing the past level changes. Despite occasional discrepancies attributed to precipitation biases, the procedure proves reliable for assessing lake water level trends. Future studies could refine the procedure and extend its applicability, enhancing the ability to monitor environmental changes.
Electrodeposition-anodising for preparing corrosion-resistant copper coatings for Gd metal
Authors: Sun Lunye , Ma Saibei , Wu Haojie , Li Zhenxing
Published: December 2024

The magnetic refrigeration effect of gadolinium (Gd) metal allows for room temperature cooling, offering a wide range of potential applications. Gd is typically manufactured into thin sheets for the production of array-type magnetic refrigeration (MR) heat exchangers. However, due to its highly reactive chemical properties, Gd is prone to susceptible to corrosion when exposed to the heat transfer medium. Therefore, enhancing the corrosion resistance of Gd sheets is essential for protecting the metal and extending their operational lifespan. In this study, a corrosion resistant coating was developed through the electrodeposition of high purity copper onto Gd sheet followed by anodic oxidation. It was observed that utilising a current density of 2 A/dm2, Cu2+ concentration of 0.16 mol/L, PH of 10, temperature of 50 °C, and HEDP of 30 g/L resulted in the formation of a uniform copper layer measuring 23.41 μm and significantly improved corrosion resistance by 98.65% compared to the substrate. The analysis of the results indicates that the oxide layer is primarily composed of CuO, Cu2O, CuOH and Cu(OH) 2. The corrosion resistance of the anodised surface has been enhanced by 31.17% compared to before anodising, while the wettability of the anodised surface has been reduced. As a result, in this study, a method for depositing a corrosion-resistant copper coating is developed, which can significantly prolong the service life of Gd in MR heat exchangers.
A Bayesian latent class approach to causal inference with longitudinal data
Authors: Liu Kuan , Saarela Olli , Tomlinson George , Feldman Brian M , Pullenayegum Eleanor
Published: December 2024

Bayesian methods are becoming increasingly in demand in clinical and public health comparative effectiveness research. Limited literature has explored parametric Bayesian causal approaches to handle time-dependent treatment and time-dependent covariates. In this article, building on to the work on Bayesian g-computation, we propose a fully Bayesian causal approach, implemented using latent confounder classes which represent the patient’s disease and health status. Our setting is suitable when the latent class represents a true disease state that the physician is able to infer without misclassification based on manifest variables. We consider a causal effect that is confounded by the visit-specific latent class in a longitudinal setting and formulate the joint likelihood of the treatment, outcome and latent class models conditionally on the class indicators. The proposed causal structure with latent classes features dimension reduction of time-dependent confounders. We examine the performance of the proposed method using simulation studies and compare the proposed method to other causal methods for longitudinal data with time-dependent treatment and time-dependent confounding. Our approach is illustrated through a study of the effectiveness of intravenous immunoglobulin in treating newly diagnosed juvenile dermatomyositis.
Knowledge and Attitude of Turkish Male Health Care Workers Regarding Human Papillomavirus and Vaccination
Authors: Doğan Ahmet , Toker Meryem Sena , Gozdas Hasan Tahsin , Bal Tayibe
Published: December 2024

This descriptive, cross-sectional survey study aimed to evaluate the knowledge of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and vaccination, related diseases, vaccination status, and attitudes toward vaccination among Turkish male health care workers (HCWs). The study was planned between June 20 and 30, 2023. A questionnaire was developed by reviewing similar studies to assess the sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge about HPV, vaccination, and attitudes toward vaccination. A total of 322 volunteers (doctors, male nurses, and other allied health personnel such as cleaning staff, patient carers, and technicians) completed the questionnaire. Participants generally provided accurate answers to questions about HPV but often provided incorrect answers regarding vaccination. In addition, the overall HPV knowledge score was significantly higher among vaccinated participants or those willing to be vaccinated than those who were unvaccinated participants and those who were unwilling to be vaccinated ( p < .05). There was a significant and moderately strong relationship between HPV vaccine knowledge level and willingness to be vaccinated. In addition, the relationship between vaccination status and knowledge level was substantial. Factors such as medical position, age, alcohol use, and regular physical activity were more likely to affect the HPV knowledge levels of assistant HCWs negatively. Vaccine hesitancy was also higher in the 27 to 40 age group. Knowledge about HPV, medical position, number of sexual partners, social habits, views on vaccination, cost, and religious and cultural values directly affect the rate of HPV vaccination and willingness to be vaccinated.
Prognostic performance of the Age, PaO2/FiO2 Ratio, and Plateau Pressure Score (APPS) for mortality in patients with COVID-19-associated acute respiratory distress syndrome admitted to an intensive care unit
Authors: Gutierrez-Zamudio Alfredo A. M. , Alejandro-Salinas Rodrigo , Vereau-Robles Jose I. , Toro-Huamanchumo Carlos J.
Published: December 2024

Background:

A predictive scoring system used in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) known as Age, PaO2/FiO2, Plateau Pressure Score (APPS) has been externally validated to predict mortality in Asian and Caucasian populations. Its performance in Latin American and COVID-19 patients still needs to be done.

Objective:

To assess the association between APPS and mortality, as well as APPS performance in predicting mortality within 28 days of intensive care unit (ICU) admission in patients with ARDS due to COVID-19.

Design:

Analytical observational retrospective cohort study.

Methods:

We conducted a retrospective cohort study in patients diagnosed with ARDS according to the Berlin criteria who were admitted to the ICU. We evaluated the prognostic performance of APPS using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC-ROC), and association with mortality was measured using the Cox proportional hazards regression models.

Results:

A total of 271 patients were analyzed. The AUC for 28-day mortality was 0.78 (95% CI: 0.73–0.84). In the Cox proportional hazards model, after adjusting for sex and categorized Charlson Comorbidity Index, it was found that grade 2 APPS (aHR: 3.67, 95% CI: 2.14–6.30, p < 0.001) and grade 3 APPS (aHR: 7.95, 95% CI: 3.72–17.02, p < 0.001) were associated with a higher hazard of 28-day mortality.

Conclusion:

The APPS scoring system has a good prognostic performance for mortality in patients diagnosed with COVID-19-induced ARDS.
Science Education via Science and Technology Innovation Competitions: Learning Environment, Learning Processes, and the Effectiveness of Talent Development
Authors: Song (宋娴) Xian , Zhu (朱雯文) Wenwen
Published: December 2024

Purpose

China Adolescents Science and Technology Innovation Contest (CASTIC) has created a better experimental environment for science education than that provided by formal schooling. In order to assess its educational effect, this study examines different talent development models resulting from CASTIC, as well as learning environment and processes it fosters.

Design/Approach/Methods

This multi-case study sampled teachers and students from different schools that participated in the Shanghai division of CASTIC, and then analyzed the implementation process of CASTIC as well as various models it formed for talent development.

Findings

This study argues that, by constructing multiple settings for learning involving schools, science clubs, and competitions, CASTIC enables schools to establish diversified talent development models based on process motivation. As structural problems arising from the inadequacy of educational resources for science and technology innovation continue to limit the educational effectiveness of these competitions, a series of curriculum reforms and institutional designs are necessary to fully harness the educational power of science and technology innovation competitions.

Originality/Value

This study provides an important reference for understanding the talent training mechanism of science competition and exploring its future development.
Subcutaneous electroencephalography monitoring for people with epilepsy and intellectual disability: co-production workshops
Authors: Meinert Edward , Milne-Ives Madison , Sawyer Jennifer , Boardman Liz , Mitchell Sarah , Mclean Brendan , Richardson Mark , Shankar Rohit
Published: December 2024

Background

Nearly 25% of people with intellectual disability (PwID) have epilepsy compared to 1% of the UK general population. PwID are commonly excluded from research, eventually affecting their care. Understanding seizures in PwID is particularly challenging because of reliance on subjective external observation and poor objective validation. Remote electroencephalography (EEG) monitoring could capture objective data, but particular challenges and implementation strategies for this population need to be understood.

Aim

This co-production aimed to explore the accessibility and potential impact of a remote, long-term EEG tool (UnEEG 24/7 SubQ) for PwID and epilepsy.

Method

We conducted six, 2-hour long workshops; three with people with mild intellectual disability and three with families/carers of people with moderate–profound intellectual disability. Brief presentations, easy read information and model demonstrations were used to explain the problem and device. A semi-structured guide developed by a communication specialist and art-based techniques facilitated discussion with PwID. For family/carers, active listening was employed. All conversations were recorded and transcribed. Artificial intelligence-based coding and thematic analysis (ATLAS.ti and ChatGPT) were synthesised with manual theming to generate insights.

Results

Co-production included four PwID, five family members and seven care professionals. Three main themes were identified: (1) perceived benefits for improving seizure understanding, informing care and reducing family and carer responsibility to accurately identify seizures; (2) the device was feasible for some PwID but not all; and (3) appropriate person-centred communication is essential for all stakeholders to reduce concerns.

Conclusions

The workshops identified key benefits and implementing barriers to SubQ in PwID.
Acoustics of rubbing feathers: the velvet of owl feathers reduces frictional noise
Authors: Liu Lori G. , Clark Christopher J.
Published: December 2024

One feather structure associated with an owl's ability to fly quietly is the soft dorsal surface on their flight feathers: the velvet. This velvet is a mat of elongated filamentous pennulums that extend up from feather barbules. The aerodynamic noise hypothesis posits this velvet reduces aerodynamic noise caused by the formation of turbulence, while the structural noise hypothesis posits the velvet acts as a dry lubricant, reducing frictional noise produced by feathers sliding past one another. We investigated the structural noise hypothesis by quantifying the length of the velvet on 24 locations across the wing of the barred owl (Strix varia) and then qualitatively assessing the presence of velvet in 24 bird species. We found that velvet has evolved at least 4 times independently (convergently) in owls, nightbirds, hawks and falcons. Then, we rubbed 96 pairs of feathers together from 17 bird species (including the four clades that have independently evolved velvet) under three experimental treatments: control, hairspray applied (to impair the velvet) and hairspray removed. The sound of feathers rubbing against each other was broadband, similar to the sound of rubbing sandpaper or Velcro. Species with velvet produced rubbing sounds that were 20.9 dB quieter than species without velvet, and velvet-coated feathers became 7.4 dB louder when manipulated with hairspray, while feathers lacking velvet only increased in loudness by 1.7 dB, relative to the control treatments. These results all support the hypothesis that the velvet primarily functions to ameliorate the sounds of feathers rubbing against other feathers.
Biomechanics and ontogeny of gliding in wingless stick insect nymphs (Extatosoma tiaratum)
Authors: Zeng Yu , Naing Grisanu , Lu Vivian , Chen Yuexiang , Dudley Robert
Published: December 2024

Many wingless arboreal arthropods can glide back to tree trunks following free falls. However, little is known about the behaviors and aerodynamics underlying such aerial performance, and how this may be influenced by body size. Here, we studied gliding performance by nymphs of the stick insect Extatosoma tiaratum, focusing on the dynamics of J-shaped trajectories and how gliding capability changes during ontogeny. After being dropped 40 cm horizontally from a visual target, the first-instar nymphs landed on the target within 1.1 s. After reaching terminal speed (at ∼0.25 s), they initiated gliding with significant horizontal force, during which the overall lift-to-drag ratio increased from 0.16 to 0.48. This transition from parachuting to gliding is characterized by a damped oscillation in body pitch, initiated with a rapid nose-down pitching, and led to a higher-lift configuration with reduced body angle of attack. Among instars, increasing wing loading during ontogeny led to greater terminal speed, reduced agility during glide initiation and increased glide angle. Our study demonstrates that a sequence of controlled behaviors, from pre-glide descent to glide initiation and forward gliding, underlies their gliding aerodynamics, which in aggregate form the basis for J-shaped aerial trajectories. Selection for improved gliding performance in wingless arthropods may foster the evolution of more rapid maneuvers and of dedicated morphological traits (such as winglets) that contribute to an overall reduction in wing loading, either across ontogeny or during the evolution of larger body size.
Behavioural evidence of spectral opponent processing in the visual system of stomatopod crustaceans
Authors: Wang Ching-Wen Judy , Marshall N. Justin
Published: December 2024

Stomatopods, commonly known as mantis shrimps, possess intricate colour vision with up to 12 photoreceptor classes arranged in four specialised ommatidia rows (rows 1–4 in the midband region of the eye) for colour perception. Whereas 2–4 spectral sensitivities suffice for most visual systems, the function and mechanism behind stomatopods' 12-channel colour vision remains unclear. Previous anatomical and behavioural studies have suggested that binning and opponent processing mechanisms may coexist in stomatopod colour vision. However, direct evidence of colour opponency has been lacking. We hypothesised that if colour opponency exists in stomatopod vision, they would be able to distinguish colour from grey under coloured illumination. Conversely, if only the binning system is used, they would not. By examining the colour vision of the stomatopod Haptosquilla trispinosa with modified von Frisch grey card experiments, we found that they can differentiate between colour and grey under various coloured illuminations. Our results provide the first direct behavioural evidence of spectral opponency in stomatopods, suggesting that they use a hybrid colour processing system combining opponent and binning mechanisms for colour vision. This study advances our understanding of the complex visual system in stomatopods and highlights the importance of further research into the processing mechanisms, function and evolution of their unique visual system.
Udział Mariana Morelowskiego w Mieszanej Komisji Specjalnej do spraw reewakuacji i rewindykacji mienia kulturalnego z Rosji
Authors: Chabiera Piotr Paweł
Published: December 2024

Artykuł prezentuje dotąd niepublikowane badania na temat działalności Mariana Morelowskiego w procesie rewindykacji polskich dóbr kultury z Rosji. W opracowaniu poddano szczegółowej analizie jego udział i zasługi w przebiegu restytucji mienia kulturalnego po traktacie ryskim. Opisano uczestnictwo Morelowskiego w pracach Towarzystwa Opieki nad Zabytkami Przeszłości w Moskwie, w Biurze Prac Kongresowych i kilkuletnią działalność w delegacji polskiej w Mieszanej Komisji Specjalnej do spraw reewakuacji mienia kulturalnego z Rosji.
THE Los mosaicos Maumejean de la Iglesia de la Concepción Inmaculada: una “petit france” en Nervión.
Authors: Fuentes Ruiz Alberto Jesús
Published: December 2024

Nervión es el ensanche proyectado al oriente de la Sevilla de los felices años veinte
con obras emblemáticas como su Ciudad-Jardín o la parroquia de la Concepción
Inmaculada, la cual posee unos mosaicos modernistas de la casa Maumejean, tan
extraordinarios como desconocidos, adosados a su retablo mayor. En este artículo
presentamos un análisis artístico de tan preciada obra musivaria así como de las
vidrieras que adornan el templo y que en conjunto conforman un programa iconográfico
fruto de la visión de la Iglesia del momento, personificada en el Cardenal Eustaquio
Ilundáin, y de las preocupaciones de la burguesía sevillana, destinataria de la nueva
parroquia. Estética y pensamiento, al servicio del arte y la espiritualidad, con claras
conexiones francesas en la Sevilla de la Exposición Iberoamericana de 1929
Czwarta wyprawa krzyżowa w kontekście dotychczasowej narracji historiograficznej – problemy badawcze
Authors: Konik Dariusz
Published: December 2024

The Fourth Crusade, one of the most controversial issues in medieval history, has been an object of both fascination and disdain throughout the ages. The downfall of Constantinople has drawn nearly universal ire and criticism ever since the Latin Empire itself was founded and it remains so with the modern historiography. The spite and prejudice the crusade was approached with were founded on numerous reasons, each of them with their own set of assumptions, biases and subjectiveness which in turn have led to creating myths that directly harm the study of the subject. The article attempts to present the threats this approach has led to and ultimately argues for the need for rethinking the very definition of the Fourth Crusade as we know it.
Retoryka religijna w traktacie pokojowym z Cateau-Cambrésis. Próba analizy
Authors: Ziółkowski Mateusz
Published: December 2024

The Peace Treaty of Cateau-Cambrésis, despite being one of the most important agreements of its kind in 16th-century Europe, has not been the source of exhaustive research. This is all the more surprising given the various layers possible for analysis. One of these is the rhetorical layer. As an official document, the text of the peace treaty was very carefully prepared linguistically to ensure that its rhetoric did not deviate from the ideological line set by its issuers. It is the rhetoric, narrowed down to religious aspects, that is the purpose of this article. By analysing the relevant passages, the question of what religious rhetoric was, what arguments were used, what their symbolic layer was, and what goals were declared through its use will be answered.
Śmierć Zygmunta III i Władysława IV w Pamiętniku o dziejach w Polsce Albrychta Stanisława Radziwiłła
Authors: Anczakowska Jagoda
Published: December 2024

Pamiętnik o dziejach w Polsce (1632-1656) is a journal by the Grand Chancellor of Lithuania Albrycht Stanisław Radziwiłł. It contains insight into the life of the elites and the administration of the 17th century. Poland-Lithuania. Among them are descriptions of the death and dying of two of the three kings he served – Zygmunt III and Władysław IV. Both descriptions are inconsistent with each other and vary in their size and content. The article presents notions concerning royal deaths and discusses the reasons behind the differences in their commemoration in Radziwiłł’s journals.
Chrześcijańskie motywy wielkości państwa amerykańskiego w początkach jego istnienia
Authors: Konieczny Krzysztof
Published: December 2024

This text touches on the topic of Christian social and legal motives in the USA at the beginning of its existence, that is, between the Declaration of Independence of 1776 and the mid-second decade of the 19th century. It refers to the formation of American identity and the socio-legal system in pre-independence times, indicating that these are continuously connected episodes. The creation of the American state from thirteen united Colonies was an expression of the mental maturity of their inhabitants who wanted greater freedom in the development of their region, and thus quickly becoming an important country on a global scale. This was determined not only by economic, geographical and political factors, but also by the life philosophy of citizens which located both freedom and religion in the center.