bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diffusive metasurfaces based on transverse magnetized ferrite for reduction of radar cross section
Authors: Liang Chengpeng , Wu Minghui , Li Feifei , Li Shiyin , Poo Yin
Published: April 2024

Diffusive metasurfaces have attracted a great deal of interest in recent years for their promising radar cross section reduction ability. In this work, we proposed a methodology for designing non-tunable and tunable diffusive metasurfaces with transverse magnetized ferrite (TMF). The metasurfaces are two-dimensional arrays configured by metal plates and TMFs backed by metal plates, where the TMFs are functioned as perfect magnetic conductor and magnetic absorbers in lossless and lossy cases, respectively. The designed tunable metasurface allows for control of the operating frequency by adjusting the biased magnetic field, while the non-tunable version provides a wider operation band. This paper demonstrates that the ferrite-based metasurface have exotic stealth performance at microwave frequencies and offers a new approach to design stealth structures.
Image recovery method for underwater targets with complex polarization characteristics
Authors: Fang Ming , Cai Yaxin , Zhang Jiarui
Published: April 2024

Polarization imaging techniques have been effective in improving the clarity of turbid underwater images affected by water scattering. These techniques offer valuable additional information compared to traditional methods. However, previous descattering methods have mostly been designed for targets with uniform distribution of polarimetric characteristics. Therefore, targets with complex polarization characteristics have non-uniform distribution of polarization characteristics when dealing with such problems, additional parameter estimation errors can limit the results of image recovery. This paper proposes what we believe is a novel approach to address this issue. The method involves obtaining a new set of images using the polarization images vector space transformation method. The angle of polarization (AOP) of the target reflected light is estimated using the additivity law of the Stokes vector. This information is then combined with the physical model of underwater imaging to recover the underwater images affected by scattering. Experimental results conducted under varying levels of water turbidity validate the effectiveness of the proposed method. Moreover, the proposed method significantly broadens the range of application scenarios.
Bending of Lloyd’s mirror to eliminate the period chirp in the fabrication of diffraction gratings
Authors: Bienert Florian , Röcker Christoph , Graf Thomas , Ahmed Marwan Abdou
Published: April 2024

We present a new technique to prevent the detrimental period chirp that appears in optical gratings fabricated by laser interference lithography (LIL). The idea is to bend the Lloyd’s mirror in the lithographic setup to eliminate the period chirp already at the step of the grating’s exposure. A new mathematical model was developed to describe the required bending geometry of the mirror. It is shown that this geometry can be described by multiple cross-sections of the mirror, each obtained by the solution of an implicit first-order differential equation. The proposed approach is illustrated on the basis of a concrete example. By slightly bending the Lloyd’s mirror (by ≈ 3.5 mm of maximum deflection over an area of 142 mm × 215 mm) the period chirp of the exposed grating can be eliminated completely.
Generation of cylindrical vector modes via astigmatic mode conversion
Authors: Román-Valenzuela Tatiana , Rodríguez-Fajardo Valeria , Bo-hu Xiao , Rosales-Guzmán Carmelo
Published: April 2024

In this work, we propose and demonstrate experimentally a compact technique for generating cylindrical vector beams based on a Michelson interferometer and a π-astigmatic mode converter. The latter is required to invert the topological charge of higher-order Laguerre–Gauss (LG) beams. Our proposed technique generalizes the use of astigmatic mode conversion, commonly associated only with scalar beams, to vector beams with a non-homogeneous polarization distribution. We anticipate that many applications based on Michelson interferometers will benefit from the unique properties of vector beams.
Mid-infrared optical coherence tomography with a stabilized OP-GaP optical parametric oscillator
Authors: Charsley Jake M. , Farrell Carl , Rutkauskas Marius , Schunemann Peter G. , Reid Derryck T.
Published: April 2024

We demonstrate mid-infrared time-domain optical coherence tomography (OCT) with an orientation-patterned GaP optical parametric oscillator. Instantaneous broadband mid-infrared spectra provide reduced scattering for OCT applications including cultural heritage, quality assurance, and security. B-scan calibrations performed across the wavelength tuning range show depth resolutions of 67 µm at 5.1 µm and 88 µm at 10.5 µm. Volumetric imaging inside a plastic bank card is demonstrated at 5.1 µm, with a 1 Hz A-scan rate that indicates the potential of stable broadband OPO sources to contribute to mid-infrared OCT.
Transcriptional control of visual neural circuit development by GS homeobox 1
Authors: Schmidt Alexandra R. , Placer Haiden J. , Muhammad Ishmael M. , Shephard Rebekah , Patrick Regina L. , Saurborn Taylor , Horstick Eric J. , Bergeron Sadie A.
Published: April 2024

As essential components of gene expression networks, transcription factors regulate neural circuit assembly. The homeobox transcription factor encoding gene, gs homeobox 1 (gsx1), is expressed in the developing visual system; however, no studies have examined its role in visual system formation. In zebrafish, retinal ganglion cell (RGC) axons that transmit visual information to the brain terminate in ten arborization fields (AFs) in the optic tectum (TeO), pretectum (Pr), and thalamus. Pretectal AFs (AF1-AF9) mediate distinct visual behaviors, yet we understand less about their development compared to AF10 in the TeO. Using gsx1 zebrafish mutants, immunohistochemistry, and transgenic lines, we observed that gsx1 is required for vesicular glutamate transporter, Tg(slc17a6b:DsRed), expression in the Pr, but not overall neuron number. gsx1 mutants have normal eye morphology, yet they exhibit impaired visual ability during prey capture. RGC axon volume in the gsx1 mutant Pr and TeO is reduced, and AF7 that is active during feeding is missing which is consistent with reduced hunting performance. Timed laser ablation of Tg(slc17a6b:DsRed)-positive cells reveals that they are necessary for AF7 formation. This work is the first to implicate gsx1 in establishing cell identity and functional neural circuits in the visual system.
Energy drinks in Tamale: Understanding youth perceptions, consumption patterns, and related factors
Authors: Kobik Williams , Aryee Paul Armah
Published: April 2024

Energy drinks (EDs) have become a popular choice for young people seeking physical and cognitive boosts, with ingredients such as caffeine, taurine, and B vitamins aimed at improving academic, athletic, and alertness levels. However, the popularity of these drinks is also driven by low prices, taste, brand loyalty, and gendered marketing, with boys being more likely to consume them. Despite the supposed benefits, EDs have been associated with high-risk behaviours, deaths, and adverse health effects, especially those related to cardiovascular risk. Meanwhile, in Ghana, the use of EDs is on the rise. Hence, this study aimed to examine the prevalence and consumption patterns, perceptions, and factors associated with ED consumption among the youth of the Tamale Metropolis. The study was cross-sectional, consisting of 541 participants. The group consisted of 340 males and 201 females, between the ages of 15 and 45. A questionnaire was utilized to obtain data on the respondents’ consumption patterns and perceptions of EDs, as well as their socio-demographic characteristics. The results of the study indicated that a large percentage of the respondents, 98.7%, had consumed EDs before, while 78.7% currently consume them. Respondents believed that EDs provided additional energy (81.00%) and reduced stress (62.30%). However, they also perceived side effects such as insomnia (60.60%) and restlessness (51.40%). Also, the highest proportion of respondents (83.4%) had poor knowledge of EDs. They were unaware of the classification of EDs and their ingredients, side effects, and benefits. Age, marital status, level of education, work intensity, EDs served at gatherings, and knowledge of EDs was significantly associated with ED consumption (p < .05). Consumption was higher among those aged 26 to 35 years, singles, individuals with no formal education, and those with high work intensity. The high consumption was also associated with low knowledge levels. It is recommended that public health and nutrition professionals engage in further advocacy efforts to improve the youth’s knowledge and perception of EDs in a positive manner. In addition, lawmakers should use legislation to influence consumption rates and safeguard the health of consumers.
Involvement of the anterior insula and frontal operculum during wh-question comprehension of wh-in-situ Korean language
Authors: Park Haeil , Baik Jiseon , Park Hae-Jeong
Published: April 2024

In this research, we employed functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to examine the neurological basis for understanding wh-questions in wh-in-situ languages such as Korean, where wh-elements maintain their original positions instead of moving explicitly within the sentence. Our hypothesis centered on the role of the salience and attention network in comprehending wh-questions in wh-in-situ languages, such as the discernment of wh-elements, the demarcation between interrogative types, and the allocation of cognitive resources towards essential constituents vis-à-vis subordinate elements in order to capture the speaker’s communicative intent. We explored subject and object wh-questions and scrambled wh-questions, contrasting them with yes/no questions in Korean. Increased activation was observed in the left anterior insula and bilateral frontal operculum, irrespective of the wh-position or scrambling of wh-element. These results suggest the interaction between the salience and attentional system and the syntactic linguistic system, particularly the left anterior insula and bilateral frontal operculum, in comprehending wh-questions in wh-in-situ languages.
A variety of soliton solutions of time M-fractional: Non-linear models via a unified technique
Authors: Roshid Md. Mamunur , Rahman M. M. , Roshid Harun-Or , Bashar Md. Habibul
Published: April 2024

This work explores diverse novel soliton solutions of two fractional nonlinear models, namely the truncated time M-fractional Chafee-Infante (tM-fCI) and truncated time M-fractional Landau-Ginzburg-Higgs (tM-fLGH) models. The several soliton waves of time M-fractional Chafee-Infante model describe the stability of waves in a dispersive fashion, homogeneous medium and gas diffusion, and the solitary waves of time M-fractional Landau-Ginzburg-Higgs model are used to characterize the drift cyclotron movement for coherent ion-cyclotrons in a geometrically chaotic plasma. A confirmed unified technique exploits soliton solutions of considered fractional models. Under the conditions of the constraint, fruitful solutions are gained and verified with the use of the symbolic software Maple 18. Keeping special values of the constraint, this inquisition achieved kink shape, the collision of kink type and lump wave, the collision of lump and bell type, periodic lump wave, bell shape, some periodic soliton waves for time M-fractional Chafee-Infante and periodic lump, and some diverse periodic and solitary waves for time M-fractional Landau-Ginzburg-Higgs model successfully. The required solutions in this work have many constructive descriptions, and corporal behaviors have been incorporated through some abundant 3D figures with density plots. We compare the m-fractional derivative with the beta fractional derivative and the classical form of these models in two-dimensional plots. Comparisons with others’ results are given likewise.
Characteristics of commercial determinants of health research on corporate activities: A scoping review
Authors: Burgess Raquel C. , Nyhan Kate , Dharia Naisha , Freudenberg Nicholas , Ransome Yusuf
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Business practices have influenced human health for centuries, yet an overarching concept to study these activities across nations, time periods, and industries (called ‘the commercial determinants of health’ (CDH)) has emerged only recently. The purpose of this review was to assess the descriptive characteristics of CDH research and to identify remaining research gaps.

Methods

We systematically searched four databases (Scopus, OVID Medline, Ovid Embase, and Ovid Global Health) on Sept 13, 2022 for literature using CDH terms that described corporate activities that have the potential to influence population health and/or health equity (n = 116). We evaluated the following characteristics of the literature: methods employed, industries studied, regions investigated, funders, reported conflicts of interest, and publication in open-access formats.

Results

The characteristics of the articles included that many were conceptual (50/116 articles; 43%) or used qualitative methods (37; 32%). Only eight articles (7%) used quantitative or mixed methods. The articles most often discussed corporate activities in relation to the food and beverage (51/116; 44%), tobacco (20; 17%), and alcohol industries (19; 16%), with limited research on activities occurring in other industries. Most articles (42/58 articles reporting a regional focus; 72%) focused on corporate activities occurring in high-income regions of the world.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that literature that has used CDH terms and described corporate practices that influence human health has primarily focused on three major industries in higher-income regions of the world. Qualitative methods were the most common empirical method for investigating these activities. CDH-focused investigations of corporate practices conducted by less-studied industries (e.g., social media) and in lower-income regions are recommended. Longitudinal quantitative studies assessing the associations between corporate practices and a range of health outcomes is also a necessary next step for this field.
Granting access: Development of a formal course to demystify and promote predoctoral fellowship applications for graduate students
Authors: Geyer Pamela K. , Hoffmann Darren S. , Barr Jennifer Y. , Widmayer Heather A. , Blaumueller Christine M.
Published: April 2024

Strong scientific writing skills are the foundation of a successful research career and require training and practice. Although these skills are critical for completing a PhD, most students receive little formal writing instruction prior to joining a graduate program. In 2015, the University of Iowa Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP) addressed this issue by developing the scientific writing course Grant Writing Basics (GWB). Here we describe the structure of this course and its effectiveness. GWB is an interactive, workshop-based course that uses a National Institutes of Health (NIH) F30 predoctoral fellowship proposal as a platform for building writing expertise. GWB incorporates established pedagogical principles of adult learning, including flipped classrooms, peer teaching, and reiterative evaluation. Time spent in class centers on active student analysis of previously submitted fellowship applications, discussion of writing resources, active writing, facilitated small group discussion of critiques of student writing samples, revision, and a discussion with a panel of experienced study section members and a student who completed a fellowship submission. Outcomes of GWB include a substantial increase in the number of applications submitted and fellowships awarded. Rigorous evaluation provides evidence that learning objectives were met and that students gained confidence in both their scientific writing skills and their ability to give constructive feedback. Our findings show that investment in formal training in written scientific communication provides a foundation for good writing habits, and the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in this vital aspect of a scientific research career. Furthermore, they highlight that evaluation is valuable in guiding course evolution. Strategies embedded in GWB can be adapted for use in any graduate program to advance scientific writing skills among its trainees.
Research on differential game of platform corporate social responsibility governance strategy considering user and public scrutiny
Authors: Guo Yongquan , Zou Hua , Liu Zhu , Liu Baotong
Published: April 2024

The development of digital technology and the sharing economy has extended corporations’ innovative activities beyond the corporation’s boundaries, so it has become more urgent to govern the lack of social responsibility and alienation of platform corporations from the perspective of social agents. First, the platform’s CSR classification and social responsibility governance’s main content are analyzed in this research. Then, this study uses government agencies, platform corporations, users, and the public as governance subjects and compares governance decisions with and without public and user oversight. Finally, the optimal balance strategy for each governing subject, the optimal trajectory of governance volume, and the trajectory of total revenue are obtained. The study found that: 1) Public and user supervision can improve the governance volume while encourage the governance motivation of government agencies and platform corporations. 2) The level of user supervision effort has a greater impact on the total governance revenue than public supervision. 3) The revenue of the system and the governance volume are greater in a centralized decision-making process, indicating that those involved should co-operate in governance based on the principle of mutual benefit. 4) The platform corporation has an incompatible but unified relationship between its social duty and financial success.
The KRAS, ATR and CHEK1 expression levels in endometrial cancer are the risk factors predicting recurrence
Authors: Buchynska Liubov , Gordiienko Inna , Glushchenko Nadiia , Iurchenko Nataliia
Published: April 2024

Endometrial cancer is the most prevalent gynecologic malignancy with a high risk of recurrence. Local recurrence occurs in 7–20% of patients with treated stage I cancer within 3 years after primary treatment. In this study, we found significantly elevated mRNA expression levels of the oncoprotein KRAS, along with two replicative stress markers, ATR and CHEK1, in samples of endometrial carcinomas of endometrium (ECE) from patients with relapse. In contrast, mRNA expression levels of the studied genes were low and uniform in samples from patients without relapse. Elevated levels of KRAS protein and the phosphorylated form of ATR/CHEK1 were distinguishing features of recurrent ECE. A strong positive correlation was found between elevated mRNA and protein levels of the studied molecules. Elevated KRAS protein levels are characteristic of poorly differentiated (G3) endometrial carcinomas with deep myometrial invasion in patients without recurrence. In contrast, in patients with recurrence, higher protein levels of KRAS, pATR and pCHEK1 were observed in samples of G1-2 endometrial carcinomas, with statistically significant differences confirmed for pATR. High pCHEK1 protein levels are associated with deep tumor invasion in the myometrium among patients with recurrence. ROC analysis confirmed that evaluating the specificity and sensitivity of KRAS, pATR and pCHEK1 predicts recurrence development in patients with ECE. Our findings indicate that markers of replicative stress may play a significant role in ECE pathogenesis. Determining their levels in tumor samples after primary treatment could help define patients at high risk of recurrence and guide consequent courses of treatment.
Identifying factors that influence electric vehicle charging station performance in expanding networks
Authors: Wolbertus Rick
Published: April 2024

Charging infrastructure deployment has taken off in many cities with the rise of the number of electric vehicles on the road. Expansion of infrastructure is a matter of prioritisation of resources to optimise the infrastructure. This paper explores how to measure charging station performance, to address the challenges that policy makers face. These performance indicators are used in a regression model, based upon current utilisation of the network, to predict which charging stations perform best. The results show that a model based on available geographical data and performance metrics of the current network are best combined to predict infrastructure performance. The variability between public charging stations is however big, as frequent user characteristics do determine the performance to a large extent.
Hepatitis C treatment outcomes among people who inject drugs experiencing unstable versus stable housing: Systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Kimball Sarah , Reynoso Marley , McKnight Courtney , Des Jarlais Don
Published: April 2024

Background

The prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) among people who inject drugs (PWID) is between 50–70%. Prior systematic reviews demonstrated that PWID have similar direct acting antiviral treatment outcomes compared to non-PWID; however, reviews have not examined treatment outcomes by housing status. Given the links between housing and health, identifying gaps in HCV treatment can guide future interventions.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. We searched six databases for articles from 2014 onward. Two reviewers conducted title/abstract screenings, full-text review, and data extraction. We extracted effect measures for treatment initiation, adherence, completion, success, and reinfection by housing status. Studies underwent quality and certainty assessments, and we performed meta-analyses as appropriate.

Results

Our search yielded 473 studies, eight of which met inclusion criteria. Only the treatment initiation outcome had sufficient measures for meta-analysis. Using a random-effects model, we found those with unstable housing had 0.40 (0.26, 0.62) times the odds of initiating treatment compared to those with stable housing. Other outcomes were not amenable for meta-analysis due to a limited number of studies or differing outcome definitions.

Conclusions

Among PWID, unstable housing appears to be a barrier to HCV treatment initiation; however, the existing data is limited for treatment initiation and the other outcomes we examined. There is a need for more informative studies to better understand HCV treatment among those with unstable housing. Specifically, future studies should better define housing status beyond a binary, static measure to capture the nuances and complexity of housing and its subsequent impact on HCV treatment. Additionally, researchers should meaningfully consider whether the outcome(s) of interest are being accurately measured for individuals experiencing unstable housing.
Cryptosporidium life cycle small molecule probing implicates translational repression and an Apetala 2 transcription factor in macrogamont differentiation
Authors: Hasan Muhammad M. , Mattice Ethan B. , Teixeira José E. , Jumani Rajiv S. , Stebbins Erin E. , Klopfer Connor E. , Franco Sebastian E. , Love Melissa S. , McNamara Case W. , Huston Christopher D.
Published: April 2024

The apicomplexan parasite Cryptosporidium is a leading cause of childhood diarrhea in developing countries. Current treatment options are inadequate and multiple preclinical compounds are being actively pursued as potential drugs for cryptosporidiosis. Unlike most apicomplexans, Cryptosporidium spp. sequentially replicate asexually and then sexually within a single host to complete their lifecycles. Anti-cryptosporidial compounds are generally identified or tested through in vitro phenotypic assays that only assess the asexual stages. Therefore, compounds that specifically target the sexual stages remain unexplored. In this study, we leveraged the ReFRAME drug repurposing library against a newly devised multi-readout imaging assay to identify small-molecule compounds that modulate macrogamont differentiation and maturation. RNA-seq studies confirmed selective modulation of macrogamont differentiation for 10 identified compounds (9 inhibitors and 1 accelerator). The collective transcriptomic profiles of these compounds indicates that translational repression accompanies Cryptosporidium sexual differentiation, which we validated experimentally. Additionally, cross comparison of the RNA-seq data with promoter sequence analysis for stage-specific genes converged on a key role for an Apetala 2 (AP2) transcription factor (cgd2_3490) in differentiation into macrogamonts. Finally, drug annotation for the ReFRAME hits indicates that an elevated supply of energy equivalence in the host cell is critical for macrogamont formation.
Promoting planting in front gardens: a systematic approach to intervention development
Authors: Allison Ayşe Lisa , Frost Rachael , Murtagh Niamh
Published: April 2024

Planting in front gardens is associated with a range of human and environmental health benefits. Effective interventions aimed at cultivating this practice are, however, hampered by the paucity of theory- and evidence-based behavioural research in this context. This study aims to systematically determine a set of behaviour change interventions likely to be effective at promoting planting in front gardens amongst UK householders. The Behaviour Change Wheel framework was applied. Behavioural systems mapping was used to identify community actors relevant to front gardening. Potential behavioural influences on householders’ front gardening were identified using the Capability, Opportunity, Motivation, Behaviour model. Using peer-reviewed scientific findings as evidence, behavioural influences were systematically linked to potential intervention strategies, behaviour change techniques and real-world implementation options. Finally, intervention recommendations were refined through expert evaluations and local councillor and public stakeholder feedback, evaluating them against the Acceptability, Practicability, Effectiveness, Affordability, Side effects and Equity criteria in a UK implementation context. This study formulated 12 intervention recommendations, implementable at a community level, to promote front gardening. Stakeholder feedback revealed a preference for educational and supportive (social and practical) strategies (e.g., community gardening workshops, front gardening ‘starter kits’) over persuasive and motivational approaches (e.g., social marketing, motivational letters from the council to householders). Householders’ front gardening behaviour is complex and influenced by the behaviour of many other community actors. It also needs to be understood as a step in a continuum of other behaviours (e.g., clearing land, gardening, waste disposal). This study demonstrates the application of behavioural science to an understudied implementation context, that is, front gardening promotion, drawing on a rigorous development process promoting a transparent approach to intervention design. Stakeholder consultation allowed relevance, feasibility and practical issues to be considered. These improve the likely effectiveness of interventions in practice. The next steps include evaluating the proposed interventions in practice.
Ritmo y pensamiento: el rastro corporeizado del tiempo en la cognición
Authors: Carnero-Sierra Susana
Published: April 2024

Este trabajo tiene como objetivo presentar una recopilación de datos aparentemente aislados en sus campos, que muestran cómo la variable ritmo constituye un factor de organización central en la cognición de un amplio rango de especies y en diferentes funciones vitales. La exposición de evidencias servirá para considerar este componente de la música como clave para la organización de la experiencia. La definición de ritmo, articulada más allá de su concepción estética, partirá de la perspectiva de la cognición corporeizada, que apoya la translación de la representación del ritmo auditivo hacia su comprensión como forma de pensamiento corporeizado, ofreciendo otro punto de superación dualista del estudio de las capacidades de cognición. Los argumentos se organizarán en cuatro ámbitos: el del marco teórico de la cognición corporeizada, el estudio evolutivo del desarrollo humano infantil, el rastro de las habilidades rítmicas en otras especies y la consolidación de intervenciones rítmicas aplicadas a diferentes patologías.
Sobre contacto y continuidad: los límites entre las cosas
Authors: Nuñez Gonzalo
Published: April 2024

Este trabajo realiza un estudio metafísico sobre la noción de contacto en términos de límites a partir de una ontología de objetos materiales. Dos cosas están en contacto cuando sus límites (o partes de ellos) se topan espacialmente. Las tesis relacionista y la substantivista sobre la naturaleza del espacio son evaluadas en sus compromisos respecto a la idea de contacto. Sin embargo, puesto que considerando algunos descubrimientos de la física cuántica es posible descartar la idea de contacto físico, la discusión requiere ser trasladada a un espacio topológicamente continuo. Aquí la idea de contacto requiere solucionar la compatibilidad entre la existencia de un espacio continuo y la existencia de límites como un tipo de discontinuidad. Cuatro tesis son evaluadas: clásica, superposición, brecha, y coincidencia. Esta última es defendida puesto que, a diferencia de las otras, no renuncia a características ontológicas fundamentales de un límite y es la menos arbitraria sobre su pertenencia.
En busca del «lógos» perdido. En torno a «Was ist das - die Philosophie?» de Martin Heidegger
Authors: Gilabert Bello Fernando
Published: April 2024

El texto de Martin Heidegger Was ist das - die Philosophie? es una de las obras claves para hacer una hermenéutica de su pensamiento. En ella se explica como lo que pretendía la filosofía en su origen no tiene un correlato con sus conquistas a lo largo de la tradición, que están más bien teñidas de un tinte racionalista que obvia los estados afectivos, tan necesarios para entender el pensar filosófico. De este modo, volvemos con Heidegger a remontarnos al inicio de la filosofía, hasta Heráclito, para así poder establecer unas pautas que nos ayuden en nuestras disquisiciones dentro del filosofar. Para ello será necesario retomar el verdadero sentido griego de λὀγος tal y como fue planteado por Heráclito: como fluir y como lucha.
Mitral Valve Regurgitation in Klippel-Feil Syndrome With Related Thoracic Deformity
Authors: Endo Yuki , Shimamura Yoshiei , Niinami Hiroshi
Published: April 2024

Klippel-Feil syndrome, characterized by congenital fusion of any 2 or more cervical vertebrae, is a rare disorder in which skeletal and other organ system–related abnormalities have been reported. This article reports a case of mitral valve regurgitation in a patient with Klippel-Feil syndrome and related thoracic deformity who underwent mitral valvuloplasty. Postoperatively, the mitral valve regurgitation disappeared, and there has been no recurrence for 3 years. This case highlights mitral valvuloplasty via median sternotomy as an excellent treatment for mitral valve regurgitation in a patient with thoracic deformity related to Klippel-Feil syndrome.
The Impact of Land Cover Changes on Flood Hydrograph Characteristics (Jragung dam Case Study)
Authors: Wahyuni Indah Tri , Sachro Sri Sangkawati
Published: April 2024

Demak and Grobogan Regency are areas where a flood frequently happen during the rainy season. PUPR Ministry built the Jragung Dam for flood management which was planned using the 1998 - 2017 data series. The Jragung River discharge tends to experience an increase in a period of 10 years, with one possible cause is changes in land cover. Therefore, to determine the effect of land cover changes on the flood hydrograph characteristics of Jragung Reservoir, a flood tracking analysis was carried out in Jragung Reservoir. This study use the HEC-HMS program with the Soil Conservation Service (SCS - CN) method. and the land cover change index used was curve number and impervious. The results of the analysis show that there is a change in land cover in the Jragung Reservoir catchment area of 2,5%, which is dominated by an increase in residential area of 55,6%. As a result of conducted, the Jragung Reservoir catchment all n-year return periods flood discharge has increased from design year (2017) and latest year (2022). QPMF increased from 1586,1 m3/s to 1689,6 m3/s which resulted in an increase in the Jragung Reservoir flood water level from planned QPMF in +118,6 m become +118,7 m.
Foucher’s Old-school Skepticism: Representation, Resemblance, and the Causal Likeness Principle
Authors: Bartha David
Published: April 2024

Commentators generally agree that Foucher presumes the resemblance theory of representation and uses it to substantiate external world skepticism. In this paper, I challenge this picture. First, I argue that he does not assume that representation is reducible to, or even just works through, resemblance between representation and object. Indeed, his functional-similarity theory primarily appeals to resemblance between the respective effects the representation and the object (would) have on our minds. I also propose that his argument for the resemblance-requirement of representation depends on the causal likeness principle, and clarify its role in Foucher’s theory. Second, I show that his main interest lies with representation in the sense of truthfully making the object present. Accordingly, when Foucher concludes that we can only represent our own ideas, he merely means that our ideas reveal the ways objects affect us through our senses, as opposed to how they are in themselves.
Diagnostic performance of a point of care high-sensitivity cardiac troponin I assay and single measurement evaluation to rule out and rule in acute coronary syndrome
Authors: De Iuliis Vincenzo , Gabriele Anna Rita , De Santis Francesca , De Rugeriis Roberta , Di Quinzio Luigi , Aloisi Steeve , Rosati Anna Carla , Benvenuto Manuela , Fabiani Donatello , Chiatamone Ranieri Sofia
Published: April 2024

Objectives

About 10 million individuals in USA presented annually in the emergency department (ED) with chest pain or with signs and symptoms of acute coronary syndrome (ACS). The advent of point of care (POC) devices, able to measure high sensitivity troponin, are a very interesting tool in the ED setting for its rapid turnaround time (<10 min).

Methods

The present study evaluates the diagnostic performance of the Atellica VTLi (Siemens) in real life setting using the clinical data derived from integrated diagnoses of emergency room staff and cardiologist and in comparison with standard laboratory hs-cTnT assay (Cobas 8000, Elecsys, Roche). 966 patients admitted to the emergency department of “G. Mazzini Hospital” in Teramo, Italy, from July 27, 2022, through June 09, 2023, were enrolled.

Results

The diagnostic performance of POC hs-cTnI was evaluated. An appropriate POC hs-cTnI threshold values <4 ng/L supplied a sensitivity and an NPV of 100 % (95 % CI: 99.5–100) in order to achieve rapid rule out for MI through a single measurement at patient presentation in the ED. Furthermore, a derivation POC hs-cTnI concentration >54 ng/L provided a specificity of 97.2 % (95 % CI: 95.9–98.1) and a PPV of 43.5 % (95 % CI: 40.3–46.7) for ruling in MI.

Conclusions

This platform showed comparable diagnostic performance for myocardial infarction to the central laboratory. Our data suggest the possible use of the Atellica VTLi hs-cTnI POC assay either in emergency department of urban medical centre, either in rural hospital for triage and patient management.
Shading impact on the electricity generated by a photovoltaic installation using “Solar Shadow-Mask”
Authors: Nfaoui Mohamed , Abouloifa Walid , Hayani-Mounir Sanaa , Roboa Mohamed Yassine , El-hami Khalil
Published: April 2024

Solar energy is an excellent source of renewable power, but designing photovoltaic (PV) systems can be challenging without proper knowledge of solar radiation. The amount of energy received at the installation site plays a crucial role in determining the number of panels required to meet the electrical demand. For a given electrical demand, higher levels of received energy imply a reduced number of panels required, and vice versa. Hence, having knowledge of this irradiance is of paramount importance in the design and sizing of solar energy systems. The primary objective of this article is to provide an accurate estimation of electricity production in a PV installation when it is affected by shading. To achieve this, we performed calculations of the irradiation (direct and diffuse) received by our installation using the “Hottel” method, which integrates relevant local site parameters for our study. Subsequently, we study the impact of shading by conducting shade mask measurements on our installation. This enables us to obtain an accurate estimation of the irradiance received by the PV panels. The measurements include surveys of the geometry of obstacles and shade measurements taken at various times of the day. Additionally, a practical study of shading effects will be conducted using “close shading masks.” This method was applied to a 1.44 kWp PV installation located at the Faculty of Science and Technology of Settat (Morocco), where the output energy of PV panels was calculated. Finally, the effect of shading on the PV installation was quantified.
Neutronic simulation of Traveling Wave Reactor (TWR) core in multi-cycles using Monte Carlo method
Authors: Amanelahi Dorcheh Lida , Kheradmand Saadi Mohsen
Published: April 2024

An ingenious design, Traveling Wave Reactor (TWR) has been suggested for full exploitation of uranium resources in next generation of nuclear reactors. This design involves the slow propagation of a nuclear fission wave through a long initially subcritical core and the transmutation of nuclear fuel. It has been widely proven that the initiation and propagation of fission waves are feasible prompting the Terra Power Company to conduct preliminary commercialization studies on this project. In equilibrium state, the shapes of the neutron flux, nuclide densities and power density distribution remain constant but the burning region moves in axial (or radial) directions. In this case the in situ fissile material production and consumption drives the operation. Only natural or depleted uranium is required for fresh fuel region. However, in equilibrium state, the burning region contains a spectrum of fission products as well as higher actinides whose are not easily available for initial TWR core construction. One solution is based on the use of enriched uranium in the first cycle to ignite the fission wave and then employment of the composition in subsequent cycles up to the equilibrium state. The main objective of this work is the feasibility study of forming a fission wave as well as the neutronic analysis of a Gas-Cooled Traveling Wave Reactor in various cycles up to the equilibrium one. The MCNP Monte Carlo code was utilized for the analysis of criticality and burn-up calculation. In each cycle, the axial fresh fuel loading and spent fuel discharge, were subjected to analysis. Results showed that the equilibrium state can be obtained by using special arrays of absorbers, from the third cycle where the shape of neutron flux and the power density distribution in axial direction remain unchanged.
Crystal structure of methyl-1-(naphthalen-1-yl)-2,3,4,9-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[3,4-b] indole-3-carboxylate, C23H20N2O2
Authors: Yang Xiaofeng , Du Mo , Liu Bin , Tang Wenqiang , Tong Hongjuan
Published: April 2024

C23H20N2O2, orthorhombic, P212121 (no. 19), a = 10.1373(13) Å, b = 10.137 Å, c = 18.093(2) Å, V = 1859.3(3) Å3, Z = 4, Rgt
(F) = 0.0507, wRref
(F
2) = 0.1108, T = 150 K.
Overview and new insights of lysine-specific histone demethylase 1 in colorectal cancer: promoting epithelial-mesenchymal transition and stemness features of cancer stem cells
Authors: Chen Jiang , Yang Tao , Xiao Tianbao , Wang Ziwei , He Fan , Bao Tian-tian , Cao Yibo
Published: April 2024

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a common malignant tumor, and research on its pathological mechanism has received increasing attention. Most CRC patients have a poor prognosis, and there is still a lack of effective immunotherapy options. An in-depth exploration of the molecular mechanism of CRC occurrence and development is of great clinical significance for the diagnosis, treatment guidance, and prognosis of CRC. Lysine-specific histone demethylase 1 (LSD1) is highly expressed in CRC, and closely related to the occurrence, invasion, metastasis, and drug resistance of CRC. The histone H3K27 demethylase KDM6A forms an inhibitory complex with LSD1 and other epigenetic regulators, silencing epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) transcription factors and inhibiting EMT-induced cancer stem cells (CSCs) properties. LSD1 is a promising target for CRC therapy, some LSD1 inhibitors are in the experimental stage by blocking its demethylase activity and may benefit CRC patients in the clinical treatment course in the future. This article reviews the latest research progress on the function of LSD1 and its relationship with CRC.
“How Brands Can Influence Consumers’ Attitudes Towards Visiting Brand-related destinations”
Authors: Ruz-Mendoza Miguel A. , Chabán Omar
Published: April 2024

The image of a tourist destination is a fundamental element in understanding the process of analysis and choice by tourists. Destination Marketing Organizations (DMOs) work in a coordinated way to promote the qualities of a destination. However, other stimuli may escape the direct control of these organizations. Among these stimuli, there is a gap in the literature that has not been studied so far: the possible effect of brands linked to a destination on consumers’ attitudes toward visiting that destination. This article analyzes this effect through the consumer satisfaction effect on customer-based destination brand equity (CBDBE). The results confirm this chain of effects. From a theoretical perspective, we contribute to reinforcing studies that analyze the effect of CBDBE on destination choice. From a mangerial point of view, we highlight the need to expand the reference of stimuli that can affect CBDBE for a greater impact and efficiency of the actions developed by DMOs.
Sharing effects of split conjuncts in German
Authors: Driemel Imke
Published: April 2024

Split conjunction refers to discontinuous coordinate structures in which conjuncts are spread across the clause. In German, split conjuncts show connectivity effects such as plural agreement on the finite verb. This paper argues for an underlying biclausal structure with subsequent deletion of redundant material in the last conjunct – also known as a stripping analysis. We propose that the connectivity effects are caused by multiple dominance of shared constituents, which subsequently move out of the coordinate structure in order to be linearized. Evidence for this proposal comes from word order restrictions with plural agreement and multiply bound pronouns, an incompatibility with collective predicates, lack of sloppy identity readings, and the possibility of cumulative quantifier readings.
Laboratory Testing and Numerical Modeling of Creep Behavior of HDPE Geomembranes under Multistage Loading
Authors: Li Dengjun , Cen Weijun , Ren Xuhua , Wen Zhenyu
Published: April 2024

Geomembranes are essential impermeable materials commonly employed in the fields of hydraulic engineering and geoenvironmental engineering. However, their long-term operation may result in significant creep deformation, particularly under high loads. This paper mainly presents the effect of loading mode on the creep characteristics of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) geomembranes. A series of creep tests of geomembranes under multistage loading were conducted and compared with single loading creep tests. Under multistage loading, creep strain increased in a step-like manner. When the cumulative load level is lower than 50 %, the creep of geomembranes can attain a stable state. When the cumulative load level attains 60 %, the creep may enter a constant-rate creep stage. Compared with single loading creep, the creep under multistage loading attained a stable state earlier for a relatively low load level, and the deformations were smaller. The creep strain rate was significantly reduced at a constant-rate creep stage for a relatively high load level. The multistage loading was beneficial to the creep deformation control of geomembranes. Furthermore, an enhanced creep model was proposed to describe the creep behavior under multistage loading, including the stable state and constant-rate creep stage. The predictions were in good agreement with the experimental data.
Early Cracking of Cementitious Materials Based on Stress Concentration Method
Authors: Ji Jianrui , Li Lihui , Tian Bo , Ma Rui , Zhang Panpan , Hu Yanbin , Gesang Yundan
Published: April 2024

The traditional ring constraint shrinkage test method for detecting shrinkage cracking of cementitious materials has been found to have low cracking sensitivity and random occurrence of cracks. To address these problems, this study proposed an improvement ring constraint shrinkage test apparatus. The apparatus was used to analyze the stress distribution at key nodes and cross sections by theoretical and finite element methods. The study also counted the cracking time and crack location distribution of the improvement ring constraint specimens by test results. The findings showed that the average cracking time of the cement mortar that improved ring specimens was 52.4 % shorter than that of the conventional ring specimen. This significant reduction in the test observation period indicates that the improvement ring constraint shrinkage test method is highly efficient. Moreover, 98 % of the crack offset was within 27.35 mm of the expected cracking location, and the offset distance was negligible compared with the conductive coating length. These results suggest that the improvement ring constraint shrinkage test method can effectively limit the location of specimen cracking.
Novel Electrophysiological Signatures of Learning and Forgetting in Human Rapid Eye Movement Sleep
Authors: Shuster Alessandra E. , Chen Pin-Chun , Niknazar Hamid , McDevitt Elizabeth A. , Lopour Beth , Mednick Sara C.
Published: April 2024

Despite the known behavioral benefits of rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, discrete neural oscillatory events in human scalp electroencephalography (EEG) linked with behavior have not been discovered. This knowledge gap hinders mechanistic understanding of the function of sleep, as well as the development of biophysical models and REM-based causal interventions. We designed a detection algorithm to identify bursts of activity in high-density, scalp EEG within theta (48 Hz) and alpha (813 Hz) bands during REM sleep. Across 38 nights of sleep, we characterized the burst events (i.e., count, duration, density, peak frequency, amplitude) in healthy, young male and female human participants (38; 21F) and investigated burst activity in relation to sleep-dependent memory tasks: hippocampal-dependent episodic verbal memory and nonhippocampal visual perceptual learning. We found greater burst count during the more REM-intensive second half of the night (
p
< 0.05), longer burst duration during the first half of the night (
p
< 0.05), but no differences across the night in density or power (
p
> 0.05). Moreover, increased alpha burst power was associated with increased overnight forgetting for episodic memory (
p
< 0.05). Furthermore, we show that increased REM theta burst activity in retinotopically specific regions was associated with better visual perceptual performance. Our work provides a critical bridge between discrete REM sleep events in human scalp EEG that support cognitive processes and the identification of similar activity patterns in animal models that allow for further mechanistic characterization.