bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Containment and removal of sewage overflows from impacted surface waters - Sydney Water’s current practices and optimisation opportunities
Authors: Yan Yaode
Published: December 2024

Overflows from sewers are a common occurrence that can pose significant risk to the environment and human health, damage the reputation of the water utility within the community, and lead to regulatory action. Effective methods to contain and remove sewage contamination from waterways can minimise these risks. This practical research project focused on helping Sydney Water to determine improvements that could be made to their current approach to managing sewage overflows, through a process of evaluation, benchmarking, literature review of best practice techniques and equipment, and field trials of those techniques and equipment deemed appropriate for Sydney Water’s assets and area of operations. While much of Sydney Water’s current techniques and equipment was deemed to be well developed, the research and trials did conclude that the current approach could be improved through the addition of silt curtains during the containment phase, and the implementation of low-spray surface aerators to increase dissolved oxygen levels in the receiving waterway. Embedding these findings into Sydney Water’s standard response to sewage overflows may help address the risks posed by these events. The results of this research may be of interest to other utilities wanting to improve their sewage overflow clean-up approach, and to contractors / suppliers working alongside them.
Efectividad de la revascularización completa percutánea frente a la revascularización de vaso culpable en el pronóstico de pacientes con infarto agudo de miocardio del Hospital Central FAP, 2021-2023
Authors:   , Gallegos Mostajo Luis Antonio
Published: December 2024

Se pretende realizar un estudio con el objetivo de analizar si la revascularización completa percutánea es más efectiva que la revascularización de vaso culpable en el pronóstico de pacientes con infarto agudo de miocardio (IAM) del Hospital Central FAP durante el 2021 y 2023. Por tal motivo, se diseñó un estudio de cohorte retrospectiva, en el cual se agruparán a los pacientes según el tipo de revascularización coronaria realizada como manejo definitivo, siendo el grupo expuesto aquellos sometidos a revascularización completa percutánea y los no expuestos a revascularización de vaso culpable. Como población se tendrá a un total de 164 pacientes (82 para cada grupo). Se determinará la incidencia de eventos cardiovasculares mayores en cada grupo de exposición y se calculará el riesgo relativo de cada técnica en general y por subgrupos.
An Integrated Workflow for Data Analytics-Assisted Reservoir Management with Incomplete Well Log Data
Authors: Artun E. , Canbolat S. , Yildirim E. C. , Acikgoz C. , Yuruker O.
Published: December 2024

Advancements in data collection, storage, and processing have facilitated the widespread adoption of data-driven models for forecasting and decision-making in the oil and gas industry. Earlier studies suggested that when we have a limited understanding of reservoir characteristics and physics, data-driven modeling approaches can potentially contribute to better engineering and management of subsurface energy resources. In this paper, a data-analytics-driven, integrated workflow for reservoir management is presented. The workflow is applied to a real oil field with 48 wells, which have been producing from three fractured-carbonate, undersaturated reservoirs. After data compilation, multivariate imputation using chained equations (MICE) methodology is applied to estimate missing well log sections. The complete data set is then used to obtain spatial estimations of reservoir properties throughout the reservoir area. A machine learning–based performance forecasting model is designed, developed, and validated using available data at well locations. This model is used to extend the performance forecast to undrilled locations in the reservoir to identify potentially promising regions for field development. Model results revealed central and southeastern sections of the studied field as high-potential regions for additional oil recovery, which was consistent with earlier geologic interpretation. Although individual parts of the presented workflow were discussed individually in different papers, the main novelty in this study is developing and applying an integrated, field-data-driven workflow that starts with incomplete raw data and ends with field development recommendations. Dealing with multiple scales of static and dynamic types of data for reservoir management remains as a challenging task in complex reservoir systems, and such kind of a workflow can integrate available data for better decision-making and field development practices.
The underlying molecular mechanisms and biomarkers of Hip fracture combined with deep vein thrombosis based on self sequencing bioinformatics analysis
Authors: Shi Guanghua , Shi Xiaocui , Zhang Meng , Cheng Rui , Hu Mengqing , Zhao Yu , Li Shimei , Li Xiuxiu , Li Pengcui , Ma Haiyun
Published: December 2024

Background: Thrombus formation is a severe complication in orthopedic surgery, significantly increasing mortality in patients with fractures. Therefore, identifying feature genes to determine thrombus presence in fracture surgeries is critical.
Methods: Whole blood samples were collected from 18 patients with fractures with thrombosis (YES_thrombus) and 18 patients with fractures without thrombosis (NO_thrombus) from the Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, China, and used for transcriptome sequencing and quality control to generate the YES_thrombus dataset. Candidate genes were identified by overlapping differentially expressed genes (DEGs) with key module genes from weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA). Functional enrichment analysis was then performed to explore the roles of the candidate genes. Feature genes were further refined by intersecting results from three machine learning algorithms and constructing an artificial neural network (ANN). Diagnostic performance was assessed using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Additionally, single-gene gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) was conducted, and correlations between feature genes and differential immune cells were analyzed. The ceRNA regulatory network for feature genes was also constructed. Finally, quantitative reverse transcriptase PCR (qRT-PCR) was used to validate gene expression.
Results: Seven candidate genes were selected, with functional enrichment analysis linking them to the autophagosome and PPAR signaling pathways. Five feature genes with excellent diagnostic performance were identified. Single-gene GSEA enrichment showed that the feature genes were primarily associated with the cytosolic ribosome and oxidative phosphorylation. The correlation analysis revealed that aDC exhibited the strongest negative correlation with WDR81 and the strongest positive correlation with RGS1. The ceRNA regulatory network encompassed three feature genes, five miRNAs, and 236 lncRNAs. Expression analysis indicated that, with the exception of WDR81, other genes were significantly upregulated in the NO_thrombus group. qRT-PCR validation confirmed that the expression of AAED1, ARL4A, and WDR81 matched sequencing results.
Conclusions: In conclusion, five feature genes (RGS1, HSF2, ARL4A, AAED1, and WDR81) were identified, and functional enrichment analyses were conducted, providing a foundation for predicting the diagnosis of fractures associated with thrombosis.
Role of Aspartate 42 and Histidine 79 in the aiPLA2 activity and oligomeric status of Prdx6 at low pH
Authors: Kakchingtabam Pushpa , Shahnaj Sharifun , Kumari Anju , Longjam Japani , N. Wungnaopam A. , Herojit Khundrakpam , Laishram Rajendrakumar Singh , Fisher Aron B. , Rahaman Hamidur
Published: December 2024

Peroxiredoxin 6 (Prdx6), a unique non-seleno peroxidase, is a bifunctional protein with GSH peroxidase at pH 7.4 and calcium independent phospholipase A2 (aiPLA2) activities at pH 4.0. Changes in pH brings about alteration in the conformational and thermodynamic stability of Prdx6. For instance, under acidic condition (pH 4.0), Prdx6 forms higher oligomers with concommittant gain in aiPLA2 activity that is resistant to thermal denaturation. However, there has been no molecular level understanding of how low pH induces formation of oligomers. In the present study, site directed mutagenesis of two conserved amino acid residues, Asp42 and His79, was used to study the molecular basis for the influence of pH on the oligomeric state of Prdx6. We observed that mutation at Asp42 and His79 residues by Ala did not result in a significant change in its peroxidase activity at neutral pH 7.4 but its aiPLA2 activity at low pH 4.0 decreased significantly. At this pH condition, both mutants exhibit highly conserved alpha-helix content but fluctuating tryptophan micro-environment with partly exposed hydrophobic patches that renders the formation of oligomers. DLS measurements and analytical SEC revealed that Wt Prdx6 forms oligomers at low pH but not the mutan proteins suggesting the importance of these residues in pH sensing and oligomerization. These results suggest that Asp42 and His79 interact each other to induce conformational change of Prdx6 that triggers the oligomerization of Prdx6 at low pH.
Polygamy family structure and child health in India: Experience from cross sectional study
Authors: Rawat Ramu , Chauhan Bal Govind , Roy Naveen
Published: December 2024

The evaluation of the effect of polygamy on child nutritional health has been hindered by the complexity of the relationship. This study examines the impact of polygyny on child malnutrition using data from the fifth round of the National Family Health Survey. Both bivariate and multivariate analyses were employed to meet the study's objectives. The findings reveal that polygamy significantly affects child nutritional health. Specifically, polygamy increases the likelihood of stunting (AOR: 1.27; p<0.001 CI: 1.03-1.55) and anaemia (AOR: 1.22; p>0.1 CI: 1.10-1.35) among children under five, even after adjusting for socio-economic and demographic factors. While the crude model showed a significant increase in the risk of underweight, the adjusted model did not. Overall, study highlights a negative association between polygamous marital status and child nutritional health. Government intervention is essential to alleviate the health burden on children in polygamous families, particularly in deprived and e the gap between children in polygamous and non-polygamous families. Also, ensuring equal opportunities for economically disadvantaged areas to improve their social status and well-being. Further, collaboration with non-governmental organizations is also crucial to closing for women in both marital structures is vital for the holistic development of their children and for advancing the Sustainable Development Goals.
Evaluating the Reliability of a Microperimetry-Based Method for Assessing Visual Function in the Junctional Zone of Geographic Atrophy Lesions
Authors: Alibhai A. Yasin , Moult Eric , Jamil Muhammad Usman , Raza Khadija , Morales Marco U. , Ribiero Ramiro , Baumal Caroline R. , Fujimoto James G. , Waheed Nadia K.
Published: December 2024

Purpose
To assess the repeatability of a microperimetry methodology for quantifying visual function changes in the junctional zone of eyes with geographic atrophy (GA) in the clinical trial context.
Methods
A post hoc analysis of the OAKS phase III trial was conducted, which enrolled patients with GA secondary to age-related macular degeneration. Microperimetry using a standard 10-2 fovea centered grid was performed at baseline and follow-up visits. GA regions were traced on fundus autofluorescence (FAF) images. Two graders independently registered baseline microperimetry images with baseline FAF images in a sampling of 30 eyes from the OAKS study. Agreement between the two graders’ assessments of mean sensitivity and the number of scotomatous points within a ±250 𝜇m GA junctional zone was assessed.
Results
The intraclass correlation (ICC) and coefficient of repeatability (CoR) for the mean junctional zone sensitivity were 0.994 and 0.349 dB, respectively. The ICC and CoR for the total number of scotomatous points within the junctional zone were 0.997 and 0.218, respectively.
Conclusions
The repeatability of the methodology and its compatibility with standard MP acquisitions appear to make it well-suited for identifying and analyzing retinal sensitivity within high-risk areas of the retina.
Effect of process parameters of rotating arc welding on the microstructure and mechanical properties of AISI1020 steel
Authors: Gupta Anshika , Yuvraj Narayana , Kumar Vipin
Published: December 2024

This work investigates the effects of different arc rotational speed (ARS) on the mechanical and metallurgical properties of AISI 1020 steel welded joints via rotating arc welding with filler ER70S6. An optimal ARS of 1500 rpm was observed in fine refined microstructure in the weld fusion zone, composed of acicular ferrite (AF), which enhances the mechanical properties. At a lower ARS of 1300 rpm, the low joint efficiency and tensile strength were observed 92.82% and 438.49 MPa, respectively, due to the formation of coarser grains and pearlitic regions caused by slower cooling rates. The presence of fine pearlite and α-ferrite contributes to the high tensile strength of 492.34 MPa and a joint efficiency of 104.23%. The hardness variation from the weld center was analyzed, and the hardness value of between 140 to 169 HV at fine-grained heat-affected (FGHAZ) was attributed to the occurrence of tempered martensite. The coarse-grained heat affected zone (CGHAZ) perceived hardness values between 125 to 134 HV due to the presence of coarse grains and sot phases like ferrite and pearlite. The rotating arc welding process at different ARS influences the metallurgical properties of the weldments, with peak hardness values at the weld center ranging from 178.84 HV to 205.63 HV, highlighting the importance of controlled cooling rate and heat input in achieving optimal weld quality.
Vegetation greening enhances global fire activity
Authors: Zhang Yongguang , Lai Gengke , Wu Chaoyang , Cescatti Alessandro , Duveiller Gregory , Pausas Juli , Hantson Stijn , Zhang Zhaoying , Descals Adrià , Cao min , Lu Huazheng , Peñuelas Josep
Published: December 2024

Global terrestrial ecosystems have witnessed increased vegetation greenness1–3 and intensified fire regimes4–7 in many ecosystems worldwide, but the potential connections between them remain elusive. We quantify the impact of vegetation greening on global fire activity by examining changes in live and dead fine fuels based on multiple long-term satellite-based datasets. We show that, despite the recently observed human-driven decline in global burned area8, vegetation greening has led to an increase in global burned fraction at a rate of 0.014 ± 0.004% per year over 2001–2020. This amplifying effect is primarily driven by the increase in dead fine fuel (0.047 ± 0.009% per year), partially offset by the dampening effect of increased canopy live foliage (-0.018 ± 0.007% per year). Notably, current fire-vegetation models inaccurately represent the interactions between fire and greening, resulting in underestimations of fire responses to vegetation greening, particularly in arid and cold regions. Our findings highlight the widespread amplification of global fire activity caused by the ongoing trend of vegetation greening. They underscore the importance of considering this biogeochemical positive feedback in the land-climate system and support the efforts to mitigate its impact on ecosystems and societies.
High performance ultrascaled monolayer/bilayer WSe2 FETs achieved by immaculate 2D/2D contacts
Authors: Appenzeller Joerg , Sun Zheng , Afzalian Aryan , Wu Peng , Zhang Huairuo , Krylyuk Sergiy , Tripathi Rahul , Davydov Albert , Chen Zhihong , Pourtois Geoffrey
Published: December 2024

Achieving low contact resistance in p-type transistors remains a critical challenge when using transition-metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) as channel materials. Deposition of high work function contact metals at elevated temperatures often causes defects or strain at the metal/channel interface, which in turn can result in an increased contact resistance. Metallic two-dimensional (2D) materials offer a promising solution in this context due to their low-temperature contact formation and atomically flat surfaces. However, experimental progress has been slow in part due to the rather large bandgap of monolayer WSe2. Here, we report a novel approach, using metallic layered Nb0.3W0.7Se2 as a contact for monolayer and bilayer WSe2 transistors with channel lengths down to 100 nm. Combined with ultra-scaled gate dielectrics with an effective oxide thickness (EOT) of 1.3nm, the resulting 2D/2D contacted FETs exhibit high on-current densities of up to 375 µA/µm and 1.1 mA/µm on monolayer and bilayer WSe2 channel, respectively. This method also enables the fabrication of 2D/2D contacted monolayer WSe2 devices achieving subthreshold swings as small as 88 mV/dec.
Global, Regional, and National Female Infertility Burden and Trends from 1990 to 2021: A Systematic Analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021
Authors: Liu Jie , Qin Yi , Liu Hui , Liu Yonglin , Yang Yi , Ning Yumei , Ye Huijun
Published: December 2024

Background
Female infertility represents a significant reproductive health issue that critically affects global fertility rates. In this study, we utilized the most recent data from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021. Initially, we assessed the global number of female infertility prevalence and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs), along with the age-standardized rate (ASR) per 100,000 individuals, stratified by age, sex, sociodemographic index (SDI), nationality, and region. Furthermore, linear regression models were employed to examine the temporal trends of disease burden from 1990 to 2021. Cluster analysis facilitated the evaluation of disease burden change patterns across different GBD regions. Lastly, the Autoregressive Composite Moving Average (ARIMA) model was applied to forecast future disease burdens. In 2021, the global prevalence of female infertility was estimated at 110,089,459, contributing to 6,210,145 DALYs, which corresponds to 0.65% of the global prevalence and 0.24% of global DALYs. There was an observed increase of 76.11% in prevalence and 56.37% in DALYs since 1990. The highest burden occurred among individuals aged 35–39, with the most rapid increase observed in the 30–34 age group. The burden of female infertility displayed considerable variability across GBD regions and countries, with areas of high-meduim SDI facing elevated risks. Projections indicate a continuing rise in the ASR of prevalence and DALYs for female infertility over the next two decades. The global burden of female infertility has intensified from 1990 to 2021, with notable disparities across different SDI regions and countries. Women aged 35–39 face the highest risk, and there is a trend toward earlier onset of infertility.
Effects of ADAM10 gene deletion on APP shedding, neuronal synapse and cognitive function in adult mice
Authors: Wei Qiulan , Liu Shuhui , Liang Yan , Zhuang Jianlong , Li Peng , Zhou Changwen , Huang Zhongxing
Published: December 2024

A disintegrin and metalloprotease 10 (ADAM10) is a member of the large family of ADAMs (a deintegrin and metalloproteinases) which is involved in the hydrolysis of various cellular receptors and signaling molecules (such as APP etc.) for regulating the development of various organs and tissues of the body. ADAM10 is an Alzheimer's disease (AD) susceptibility gene, so we used the adult neural cell-specific ADAM10 gene knockout (ADAM10 cKO) mice to study the effects of the ADAM10 gene on APP shedding, neuronal synapse, and cognitive function in adult mice. Our study revealed that deletion of the ADAM10 gene resulted in the increase of sAPPβ, CTFβ, total Aβ peptide, and the reduction of sAPPα and CTFα in the brains of adult mice. Moreover, the expression of the synaptophysin in the hippocampus and cortex of mice brain decreased to different degrees, while the expression of post-synaptic dense protein-95(PSD-95) in the hippocampal CA1 decreased. Synaptic ultrastructure was abnormal, and long-term potentiation (LTP) induction was abnormal, which had a serious effect on the normal nerve cells, resulting in learning and memory impairment in the mice. These studies help to deepen our understanding of the function of the ADAM10 gene and provide a theoretical basis for the prevention and treatment of AD.
The Effect of Social Media Consumption on Emotion and Executive Functioning in College Students: an fNIRS Study in Natural Environment
Authors: Aitken Anna , Jounghani Ali Rahimpour , Carbonell Laura Moreno , Kumar Anupam , Crawford Seth , Bowden Audrey , Hosseini S. M. Hadi
Published: December 2024

As of 2023, 69% of adults and 81% of teens in the U.S. use social media. This study explores the immediate effects of social media consumption on executive functioning (EF) and emotion in college students, using a wearable fNIRS system to monitor brain activity in a naturalistic setting. Twenty participants were assessed pre- and post-social media use through EF tasks and emotion questionnaires. Results revealed 55% of participants were classified as addicted, with an average Instagram usage of 5 hours per week. Following social media exposure, significant impairments were observed in tasks like n-back and Go/No-Go, alongside altered brain activity. Specifically, increased medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) activity indicated heightened cognitive effort and performance monitoring, while decreased dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC) and ventrolateral prefrontal cortex (vlPFC) activity were associated with impaired working memory and response inhibition. Inferior frontal gyrus (IFG) activity reductions correlated with difficulties in inhibiting motor responses to No-Go stimuli. Emotional changes were minimal, except for reduced happiness in the control group. These findings highlight the negative impact of social media on EF, emphasizing the need for interventions promoting healthier digital habits.
Targeting NLRP3 signaling with a novel sulfonylurea compound for the treatment of vascular cognitive impairment and dementia
Authors: Akif Adnan , Nguyen Thi Thanh My , Liu Langni , Xu Xiaotian , Kulkarni Amol , Jiang Jianxiong , Zhang Yang , Hao Jiukuan
Published: December 2024

Background
As a key inflammatory factor, the nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain (NOD)-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome plays a crucial role in neuroinflammation and the progression of neurodegenerative diseases. Dysregulation of NLRP3 signaling can trigger various inflammatory responses in the brain, contributing to the development of neurodegenerative diseases such as ischemic stroke, vascular dementia (VaD), Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Therefore, the NLRP3 signaling pathway is a promising therapeutic target for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, including VaD.
Methods
In this study, we investigated the therapeutic effects of a synthetic sulfonylurea NLRP3 inhibitor, AMS-17, in a VaD mouse model using bilateral common carotid artery stenosis (BCAS) and elucidated the underlying mechanisms. All mice were randomly divided into three groups: Sham, VaD + Vehicle, and VaD + AMS-17. Cognitive function was assessed using the Y-maze and Morris water maze (MWM) on the 50th day after BCAS. Brain sections and blood serum samples were collected for biomarker analysis and immunohistochemistry. Neurodegeneration, expressions of the molecules involved in the NLRP3 signaling pathways, tight junction proteins, and myelination were assessed using western blotting and immunofluorescence (IF). The levels of Interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNF-α) and Interleukin-4 (IL-4) in the blood were measured using ELISA.
Results
AMS-17 treatment improved cognitive function, enhanced blood-brain barrier (BBB) integrity, and promoted remyelination in VaD mice. Additionally, AMS-17 reduced neurodegeneration and decreased the expression of NLRP3 and its associated proteins, Apoptosis-associated speck-like protein (ASC), and cleaved caspase-1 in the brain. It also lowered pro-inflammatory TNF-α and IL-1β levels, while increasing the anti-inflammatory IL-4 level in the blood.
Conclusions
The findings of this study provide the first promising evidence for the use of AMS-17 in VaD treatment in mice. This study introduces AMS-17 as a novel chemical scaffold with NLRP3 inhibitory activity, which can be further developed for the treatment of VaD in humans.
Detecting momentary reward and affect with real-time passive digital sensor data
Authors: Akre Samir , Cohen Zachary D. , Welborn Amelia , Zbozinek Tomislav D. , Craske Michelle G. , Bui Alex A. T.
Published: December 2024

This study explores the capability of passive digital sensor data from smartphones and smartwatches to predict self-reported ecological momentary assessments (EMA) of affect, motivation, interest, and pleasure in activities in an unseen test sample. Using data from 245 depressed participants with high-to-low anhedonia (195 train, 50 test) generating 23,812 EMA sessions, we evaluated whether behaviors and physiological factors could detect subjective states. For 11 of 15 EMA questions asked, machine learning models exceeded random chance in the fully-held-out test sample, suggesting detectable signals between passive measures and subjective states. Dependent on the sensor type, the optimal aggregation periods ranged from 15 minutes to 3 hours, with generally at least two hours of data being required. Subgroup analyses revealed variations in model performance by demographics, depression severity, and anhedonia severity. These findings demonstrate the potential for passive digital sensing to help monitor aspects of mental health on a large scale.
Exploring attitudes towards seeking help for mental health problems among university students from racially minoritised backgrounds: A systematic review and thematic synthesis
Authors: Hardy Rosa , West Helen , Fisher Peter
Published: December 2024

Background: University students from racially minoritised backgrounds are at an increased risk of experiencing mental health difficulties but are less likely to seek support compared to students from racial and ethnic majority backgrounds. To increase the accessibility and appropriateness of mental health support for university students, it is important to understand the attitudes towards seeking help for mental health of underserved student groups. This is the first systematic review to synthesise the available qualitative data which explores attitudes toward seeking help for mental health problems among students from racially minoritised backgrounds.
Methods: This systematic review includes qualitative studies exploring attitudes towards seeking help for mental health difficulties among racially minoritised university students. A literature search was carried out using PsycINFO, CINAHL, Medline and Web of Science in March 2024. Participants were racially minoritised university students. Data were synthesised using a thematic synthesis.
Results: Of 493 papers identified, 15 were included in the final thematic synthesis following methodological appraisal of their quality using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme. There were a total of 314 participants across all included papers. Four analytical themes were identified: “cultural dynamics" outlined how culturally specific experiences of stigma, lack of conversations about mental health, faith, and gender influenced attitudes; “the influence of relationships” explored the impact of family and peer relationships on attitudes; “internal barriers” described how preference for self-reliance and feared consequences of disclosure were culturally-informed barriers to help-seeking; and “systemic barriers” encompassed the structural barriers, discriminatory practices and perceived cultural incompetence of services that negatively impacted on attitudes towards help-seeking for mental health difficulties.
Conclusion: Culture, identity and social inequality inform attitudes towards help-seeking among racially minoritised students. Exploration of how these factors interact with university systems may improve the provision of mental health support. Systemic change is needed within universities and mental health services to tackle inequality and improve support for racially minoritised students.
Enhancing Atom Mapping with Multitask Learning and Symmetry-Aware Deep Graph Matching
Authors: Astero Maryam , Rousu Juho
Published: December 2024

Atom mapping involves identifying the correspondence between individual atoms in reactant molecules and their counterparts in product molecules. This process is crucial for gaining deeper insight into reaction mechanisms, such as defining reaction templates and determining which chemical bonds are formed or broken during a reaction. However, reliable atom mapping data are often limited or incomplete within chemical databases, rendering manual annotation impractical for large-scale datasets. To address this limitation, we propose the Symmetry-Aware Multitask Atom Mapping Network (SAMMNet), a model designed to automatically infer atom correspondences by incorporating an auxiliary self-supervised task during training. SAMMNet employs molecular graph representations and leverages graph neural networks to capture both general and task-specific features, enabling enhanced predictive performance. Our experimental results demonstrate that the multitask learning framework, coupled with symmetry-aware atom mapping, improves accuracy and robustness in atom mapping predictions. This makes our method a promising advancement for computational chemistry and related fields.
Optimizing Supply Chain Efficiency Through Multi-Head Swift Recursive Neural Network and Levy flight Boosted Dragonfly Model
Authors: ALQutaim Norah Nasser M , ALShareef Abdulrhman , Hassan Syed Hamid
Published: December 2024

Supply chain optimization is a significant challenge faced by modern industries. This necessitates the use of advanced data analytics and machine learning techniques, which can enhance forecasting accuracy, minimize inventory usage, and improve logistical efficiency. Therefore, this study introduces a novel framework for improving supply chain efficiency using data-driven analysis and advanced modeling techniques. The process begins with the collection of relevant supply chain data, which includes historical data on analysis, forecasting, and time series data. The core of the methodology is the integration of a novel Levy Flight Binary Dragonfly Optimization strategy with a Multi-Head SwifT recursive neural network model. One of the most popular architectures combines recurrent networks, such as SwiftRNN, with Multi-Head Attention which aims to capture time dependencies and emphasize essential patterns in data. Enhancing model performance involves utilizing optimization techniques like Binary Dragonfly Optimization with Levy Flight. This method optimally tunes hyperparameters by striking a balance between exploration and exploitation, mitigating the risk of local minima, and yielding more robust outcomes. Empirical results demonstrate significant improvements in forecasting accuracy, better inventory management, and enhanced logistics optimization, with a 0.134 reduction in prediction error and improved operational metrics outperformed the existing models, with an impressive 95% on-time delivery rate, 2% defect rate, and 95% logistic cost efficiency rate. Overall, the proposed framework exhibits significant potential for optimizing supply chain efficiency.
Key Players and Environmental Impacts in the Global Plastic Trade Lifecycle
Authors: Aripin Wahyu Teri , Haoxiang Xia
Published: December 2024

We analysed the global plastic trade network from 1995 to 2021 using a multilayer graph framework, categorizing countries by GDP. The study identified high-income countries as key players across all stages of the plastic lifecycle. In layer 5, focused on plastic waste generation, we used Cross-Correlation, Granger Causality, and VAR analyses to examine interdependencies. Additionally, we investigated the correlation between plastic trade stages and Environmental Performance Index (EPI) indicators. Results show significant historical correlations between different stages of plastic trade but no significant direct correlation with any EPI indicators. This highlights the dominance of high-income countries in plastic trade and the complex relationship between plastic trade and environmental performance, suggesting that the impact on environmental outcomes is not straightforward.
Comparing the effectiveness of calorie restriction with and without time-restricted eating on the circadian regulation of metabolism – rationale and protocol of a three-arm randomised controlled trial in adults at risk of type 2 diabetes
Authors: Chang You Jin , Turner Laurent , Teong Xiao Tong , Zhao Lijun , Variji Athena , Wittert Gary A. , Thompkins Sophia , Vincent Andrew D. , Grosser Linda , Young Morag J. , Blake Stephen , Panda Satchidananda , Manoogian Emily N.C. , Banks Siobhan , Heilbronn Leonie K. , Hutchison Amy T.
Published: December 2024

Background: Time-restricted eating (TRE) may extend the cardiometabolic health benefits of calorie restriction (CR). However, few studies have compared its effect on the circadian regulation of metabolic processes, including glucose metabolism. The optimal time of day to initiate TRE also remains unclear.
Aim and hypothesis: To compare CR alone or in combination with TRE, initiated at either 0800 or 1200, on postprandial metabolism. We hypothesise that relative to CR, early CR (eCR) and delayed CR (dCR) will improve glucose tolerance in response to three identical meals consumed over the day.
Methods: A parallel, single-blinded, three-arm randomised controlled trial will be conducted in 114 adults, aged 35 to 75 years with a BMI ≥ 25.1 but < 45.0 kg/m2, elevated waist circumference and fasting blood glucose (≥ 5.6 mmol/L), and who score ≥12 on the Australian Type 2 Diabetes Risk Assessment tool. Participants will be stratified by sex and fasting blood glucose (≤ 6.0 mmol/L; > 6.0 mmol/L) and then randomised (1:1:1) to CR (unrestricted meal timing), eCR (0800 to 1600) or dCR (1200 to 2000) for 8 weeks. Participants will attend the research centre for a 26-h stay at baseline and week 8. A follow-up visit for assessment of fasting body weight and a blood sample will be collected 16 weeks after primary endpoint completion. Analysis will be performed using linear mixed models adjusted for baseline and stratification factors.
Outcomes: The primary outcome is the change in postprandial glucose area under the curve (AUC) in response to three identical mixed meals served according to study protocol at week 8. Secondary outcomes are changes in postprandial insulin AUC, fasting insulin, fasting glucose, and glycated haemoglobin.
Conclusions: This randomised clinical trial will be the first to delineate the benefits of CR alone or in combination with time restricted eating on postprandial glucose metabolism over the day in adults at increased risk of type 2 diabetes.
Trial registration: NCT05769335; March 15, 2023
Vegetative Growth, Flowering, and Physiological Parameters of Young Avocado ‘Hass’ and ‘Hass’-Like Cultivars under Extreme Weather Conditions
Authors: Lahack Michal , Noy Michael , Szenes Nitzan , Rubinovich Lior
Published: December 2024

Avocado is a commercially important subtropical evergreen fruit tree. Extreme climate events may damage foliage, floral buds, flowers, and fruit, reducing avocado crop yield and restricting its geographical distribution and expansion. This study evaluates the performance of young ‘Hass’ and ‘Hass’-like (‘Gem’, ‘BL122’ [‘BL’] and ‘Maluma’) avocado cultivars under extreme weather conditions in northern Israel, an area prone to such occurrences. Over 2 years (2021–2023), trees experienced significant frost and heat events, with temperatures dropping to -2.49 °C and rising to 45.3 °C. ‘Gem’ avocados exhibited superior frost tolerance, sustaining significantly less floral bud damage than other cultivars. Both ‘Gem’ and ‘BL’ consistently showed higher CO2 assimilation, stomatal conductance, and Fv/Fm values during the winter than ‘Maluma’, suggesting better resilience to cold stress. In contrast, ‘Maluma’ exhibited the highest flowering intensity despite greater frost damage to floral buds. Under extreme heat conditions, ‘Gem’ and ‘BL’ also performed better than ‘Hass’ and ‘Maluma’, with higher CO₂ assimilation and stomatal conductance observed following heat events. In addition, ‘BL’ maintained the highest chlorophyll content throughout the study, suggesting better adaptation to adverse conditions. This study highlights the potential of ‘Gem’ and ‘BL’ as resilient alternatives to ‘Hass’ in extreme climates, emphasizing the importance of cultivar selection and adaptive management strategies for sustainable avocado production under changing environmental conditions.
Topological mechanical metamaterial for robust and ductile one-way fracturing
Authors: Wang Xinyu , Sarkar Siddhartha , Gonella Stefano , Mao Xiaoming
Published: December 2024

Fracturing is unavoidable and threatens the reliability and functionality of materials. Therefore, regulating the propagation of cracks in a predictable and ductile manner is of paramount importance. Herein, we exploit the properties of topological mechanical metamaterials (TMMs) as a versatile mechanism to guide cracks unidirectionally and turn fracturing of lattices made of brittle materials into ductile events. Inspired by quantum topological states, recent discoveries of TMMs have uncovered varieties of unconventional mechanical phenomena, ranging from one-way wave propagation to polar elasticity. We show that polarized floppy modes occurring in TMMs lead to strongly asymmetric stress fields localizing around the crack tips, leading to ductile one-way fracturing, in sharp contrast to classical theories of fractures in brittle materials. Our work demonstrates the universality of this fracture unidirectionality feature, which is protected by TMM's bulk topology, and provides robust solutions in programmable fracturing for a broad class of materials and structures.
Haemato-urological profile and asymptomatic urinary tract infection in Ghanaian steady-state sickle cell disease patients.
Authors: Twumasi Stephen , Ansah Richard Owusu , Essien-Baidoo Samuel , Basing Laud Anthony W. , Debrah Alexander Yaw , Anto Enoch Odame , Ayirebi Allwell Adofo , Asiamah-Broni Rebecca , Attivor Waldemer , Ameyaw Eric Twum , Addai Gabriel , Afriyie Edward , Gyampomah Thomas Kwabena , Opoku Joseph Nkrumah , Amoafo Prince Kwadwo , Owusu Samuel Kelvin , Akwai Vincent , Talmang Matthew , Mensah Amos , Kusi-Amponsah Isaac , Opoku Angela , Boateng Lilian Antwi
Published: December 2024

Background: Due to the reduction in immunity caused by auto-splenectomy and the consequent opsonic antibody shortage, patients with SCD are more susceptible to encapsulated organism infections, especially asymptomatic urinary tract infection (ASM-UTI). This study investigated the prevalence of asymptomatic urinary tract infection and compared urine and haematology parameters among SCD patients in Ghana to their healthy counterparts.
Methods: In this study, 104 SCD participants and 80 non-SCD subjects were recruited. Participants' information was thoroughly documented using a well-structured questionnaire and patient case records. To evaluate the prevalence of asymptomatic urinary tract infection, a clean catch early morning urine was collected from each participant and cultured on Cystine-Lactose-Electrolyte Deficient (CLED). Also, venous blood was collected for the haematological profile of the study participants.
Findings: Prevalence of ASM-UTI among SCD participants and non-SCD individuals were 22(21.2%) and 18(22.5%) respectively. S. aureus 15 (8.2%) accounted for the majority of the organisms isolated with the larger proportion 9(60.0%) being isolated from the SCD patients. This study found a statistical difference between SCD with ASM-UTI, without ASM-UTI, and non-SCD with respect to urine appearance (p=0.047), proteinuria (p=0.024), leucocyte (p<0.0001). Significantly high total WBC (p<0.0001), low platelets (p<0.0001), and low haemoglobin (p<0.0001) in SCD with ASM-UTI compared to non-SCD with ASM-UTI were also observed. Major risk factors associated with ASM-UTI includes a cloudy urine appearance (8.11, p<0.042), a positive (+1) and positive (+2) urine leucocytes and positive (+1) urine bilirubin with a significantly increased odd (7.65, p=0.001), (9.50, p=0.001) and (3.39, p=0.019) respectively of having ASM-UTI in SCD compared to having a clear urine appearance, a negative urine leucocyte, and a negative urine bilirubin.
Conclusion: This study has shown ASM-UTI to be common in adult SCD participants with higher rate in females. This study also showed that ASM-UTI can exist alongside other clinical states such as anaemia, microalbuminuria, haematuria and proteinuria which are characteristics of kidney disease which can trigger crises in SCD participants.
Trends in pancreatic cancer related mortality; a retrospective analysis using CDC WONDER Database
Authors: Duseja Nikhil , Maryam Kanzul Eman , Azam Ghufran , Uzair Muhammad , Ashraf Danish Ali , Ibrahim Sheheryar , Ahmed Fatima Kaleem , Haq Inzamam Ul , Rizvi Sabah , Murtaza Aiman , Mushtaq Warda , Raza Ali , Farhan Hasnain , Khosa Maha Mushtaq
Published: December 2024

Background
Pancreatic cancer is 8th most prevalent cancer in the United States with a very high mortality rate. Understanding the epidemiology of Pancreatic cancer is important in identifying the causes and developing preventive strategies.
Methodology:
Data from the death certificates spanning from 1999–2020, sourced from CDC WONDER (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Wide-Ranging Online Data for Epidemiologic Research) was analyzed. To quantify national annual trends in pancreatic cancer-related mortality, the Joinpoint Regression Program was used to determine the annual percent change (APC) with 95% CI in age-adjusted mortality rates (AAMRs) per 100,000 people for all ages stratified by year, gender and regions.
Results
Pancreatic neoplasm claimed about 847,589 lives across all age groups in the US from 1999–2000. The AAMR for pancreatic cancer peaked at 2020 with 11.7 [APC 0.2275 95% CI: 11.6–11.8]. The AAMR for pancreatic cancer-related deaths was 11(95%CI: 10.9 = 11.1) in 2003 and it increased to 11.3(95%CI: 11.2–11.3) in 2006 (APC 0.87* 95%CI: 11.2–11.4). Men had consistently higher AAMRs than women across all age groups throughout the study period of 1999–2000 (overall AAMR men: 13.2 (95% CI: 13.1–13.2); overall AAMR women: 9.9 (95% CI: 9.9–10)). Geographically; the lowest mortality was displayed by the Western regions (AAMR 10.5, 95% CI: 10.2–10.7), followed by Southern (AAMR 11.1, 95%CI: 10.9–11.4), followed by Midwestern (AAMR 11.7, 95%CI: 10.9–11.4), followed by Northeast region (AAMR 11.9, 95%CI: 11.6–12.1)
Conclusion
We observed an overall annual increase in mortality trends related to pancreatic cancer especially in men and certain regions like Northeast region of the United States. These results emphasize the immediate necessity for a comprehensive strategy to address this lethal illness, encompassing breakthroughs in medical research, focused public health initiatives, and extensive governmental reforms.
Development of Emotional Intelligence of Schoolchildren in Literature Lessons in Grades 5–6
Authors:   Institute for Educational Development, Ibragimova Maria E.
Published: December 2024

The issues of emotional perception have been of interest to researchers of literature teaching methods
throughout the development of science. However, modern trends in education have shifted the focus of attention from this topic, directing teachers to implement a pragmatic approach to teaching, including subjects of
the aesthetic cycle. The recent inclusion of the new term “emotional intelligence” in the federal state educational standard has made it possible to actualize the topic of developing the emotional sphere of schoolchildren. The study of existing works showed a superficial methodological understanding of the issue – at the level of describing individual methods of developing emotional intelligence. The purpose of this article is to create
a system for developing schoolchildren’s emotional intelligence while literature lessons in 5–6th grades. To
achieve the proposed goal, the author uses the following theoretical research methods: dialectical method
(analysis, comparison, systematization and generalization); methods of teaching literature: problem-based
method (V. G. Marantsman), research method (M. G. Kachurin); methods of cognitive activation of artistic
reception. Empirical methods: designing in literature lessons; introduction of various methodological forms
of teacher and students working together. The results of the analysis allow the author to make the following
conclusions: to outline the methodological basis for working on the emotional intelligence of adolescents in
literary education, as well as to present a system for its development in literature lessons for 5–6 grades,
which is built according to the psychological research and regulatory requirements for the organization of
teaching at school. Consistent teaching of understanding one’s own emotional and aesthetic perception and
the “sensory” component of the author’s and characters’ appearance will allow the teacher not only to raise
the level of emotional intelligence of schoolchildren, but also to deepen their understanding of the ideological
and semantic component of the literary text