bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deeping regional disparities in primary healthcare during COVID-19 in South Korea
Authors: Jin Hyun-Young , Ju Jongwng
Published: June 2023

This study investigates the changes in regional disparities in primary healthcare in South Korea during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our descriptive analysis found that the supply of primary healthcare per capita by the private sector decreased in all regions in 2020, at the beginning of the pandemic. In the following years, the supply of private clinics in the Seoul Metropolitan Area and other metropolis cities increased compared to before COVID-19. However, the rate of increase in private clinics per person in small and medium-sized cities/rural areas (SMRs) was relatively low. The supply of private clinics for essential medical subjects decreased in SMRs compared to pre-COVID-19. The regional disparity in primary healthcare between metropolis cities and SMRs has worsened during the pandemic. The deepening regional disparities in access to primary healthcare, which are evaluated as the long-term footprint of COVID-19, could result in inequalities in health outcomes.
SVFLDetector: A Decentralized Client Detection Method for Byzantine Problem in Vertical Federated Learning
Authors: Xu Jiuyun , Jiang Yinyue , Fan Hanfei , Wang Qiqi
Published: June 2023

In recent years, with the deepening of cross-industry cooperation, vertical federated learning with multiple overlapping samples and fewer overlapping features has attracted extensive attention. Unlike horizontal federated learning, the heterogeneity of features in vertical federated learning increases the difficulty of detecting Byzantine clients. Existing methods for detecting Byzantine clients can be devided into statistical based and detection based type. The detection based type breaks the limit on the number of Byzantine clients. To our best knowledge, current researches in vertical federated learning rely on the assumption of the reliable third-party coordinator and based on statistical type. In this work, we propose a framework based on detection type called SVFLDetector to detect Byzantine clients in vertical federated learning. The key ideas of SVFLDetector are: (1) We combine decentralized vertical federated learning with split learning, utilizing their respective advantages and eliminating the impact of a third-party server; (2) According to the heterogeneity of features in vertical federated learning, we use a client detection method which is achieved by grouping through feature encoding and performing cross validation within groups to identify Byzantine clients; (3) We propose a penalty function to reduce the impact of Byzantine clients on model aggregation. Numerical experiments show that our method has strong robustness against various Byzantine attacks.
The role of filler wire and scanning strategy in laser welding of difficult-to-weld aluminum alloys
Authors: Liverani Erica , Ascari Alessandro , Fortunato Alessandro
Published: June 2023

Laser welding of dissimilar aluminum alloys gained an increased interest in the last few years, especially for the production of lightweight components. Pores and crack formation is one of the most critical factors to be taken into consideration in this type of application, in particular when one or more parts are produced by means of die casting or additive manufacturing. Current laser systems offer several methods for defects reduction and process control and optimized process’s strategies must be correlated to key-weld factors. In light of these factors, the current paper discusses the lap-joint welding of AA6082 sheets with AlSi10Mg ones produced additively in a configuration that is typical for the manufacture of battery housing for the e-mobility industry. Both autogenous laser welding and laser welding with filler wire are investigated, along with the potential advantages of using a wobbling scanning strategy, in order to understand the impact of process strategies on weld bead quality. The importance of process parameters is pointed out for any of the aforementioned strategies, with special emphasis on defects, weld bead chemical composition, joint morphology and dilution between involved materials. The findings demonstrated that, by selecting a welding with wire and active wobbling, high-reflection alloys can be welded correctly and with a good tolerance on the process parameters, but autogenous high-productivity welding can also be considered in linear scanning conditions with a specific optimization of the process parameters.
Is Free Trade in Exchange for Technology Licensing Feasible?
Authors: Wang Xingtang
Published: June 2023

In the model of vertical product differentiation, the quality of domestic products is inferior to that of foreign one. Our findings suggest that technology licensing from foreign firm to domestic one can enhance consumer surplus and social welfare. However, due to lower profits resulting from such licensing despite reduced tariff, foreign firm may be reluctant to engage in it. Further, we find that the domestic government can enhance social welfare by exchanging foreign firm's technology licensing for free with domestic firm through free trade under certain conditions, regardless of whether a fixed-fee or per-unit royalty licensing contract is used. This provides developing country firms with ideas on how to acquire technology from developed country firms.
Investigation and analysis of porcine epidemic diarrhea cases and evaluation of different immunization strategies in the large-scale swine farming system
Authors: Zhang Bingzhou , Qing Jie , Yan Zhong , Shi Yuntong , Wang Zewei , Chen Jing , Li Junxian , Li Shuangxi , Wu Weisheng , Hu Xiaofang , Li Yang , Zhang Xiaoyang , Wu Lili , Zhu Shouyue , Yan Zheng , Wang Yongquan , Guo Xiaoli , Yu Ligen , Li Xiaowen
Published: June 2023

Background
Porcine epidemic diarrhea (PED) is a contagious intestinal disease caused by porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV) characterized by vomiting, diarrhea, anorexia, and dehydration, which has caused huge economic losses around the world. However, it is very hard to find completely valid approaches to control the transmission of PEDV. At present, vaccine immunity remains the most effective method. To better control the spread of PED and evaluate the validity of different immunization strategies, 240 PED outbreak cases from 577 swine breeding farms were collected and analyzed. The objective of the present study was to analyze the epidemic regularity of PEDV and evaluate two kinds of different immunization strategies for controlling PED.
Results
The results showed that the main reasons which led to the outbreak of PED were the movement of pig herds between different pig farms (41.7%) and delaying piglets from the normal production flow (15.8%). The prevalence of PEDV in the hot season (May to October) was obviously higher than that in the cold season (January to April, November to December). Results of different vaccine immunity cases showed that immunization with the highly virulent live vaccine (NH-TA2020 strain) and the commercial inactivated vaccine could significantly decrease the frequency of swine breeding farms (5.9%), the duration of PED epidemic (1.70 weeks), and the week batches of dead piglets (0.48 weeks weaned piglets), compared with immunization with commercial attenuated vaccines and inactivated vaccine of PED. Meanwhile, immunization with the highly virulent live vaccine and the commercial inactivated vaccine could bring us more cash flows of ￥275,274 per year than immunization with commercial live attenuated vaccine and inactivated vaccine in one 3000 sow pig farm within one year.
Conclusion
Therefore, immunization with highly virulent live vaccine and inactivated vaccine of PED is more effective and economical in the prevention and control of PED in the large-scale swine farming system.
The importance of CXCR4 expression in tumor stroma as a potential biomarker in pancreatic cancer
Authors: Bodoque-Villar Raquel , Padilla-Valverde David , González-López Lucía María , Muñoz-Rodríguez Jose Ramón , Arias-Pardilla Javier , Villar-Rodríguez Clara , Gómez-Romero Francisco Javier , Verdugo-Moreno Gema , Redondo-Calvo Francisco Javier , Serrano-Oviedo Leticia
Published: June 2023

Background. Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the main causes of cancer mortality in the world. A characteristic feature of this cancer is that a large part of the tumor volume is composed of a stroma with different cells and factors. Among these, we can highlight the cytokines, which perform their function through binding to their receptors. Given the impact of the CXCR4 receptor in the interactions between tumor cells and their microenvironment and its involvement in important signaling pathways in cancer, it is proposed as a very promising prognostic biomarker and as a goal for new targeted therapies. Numerous studies analyse the expression of CXCR4 but we suggest focusing on the expression of CXCR4 in the stroma.
Methods. Expression of CXCR4 in specimens from 33 patients with PDAC was evaluated by immunohistochemistry techniques and matched with clinicopathological parameters, overall and disease-free survival rates.
Results. The percentage of stroma was lower in non-tumor tissue (32.4 ± 5.2) than in tumor pancreatic tissue (67.4 ± 4.8), P-value = 0.001. The level of CXCR4 expression in stromal cells was diminished in non-tumor tissue (8.7 ± 4.6) and higher in tumor pancreatic tissue (23.5 ± 6.1), P-value = 0.022. No significant differences were identified in total cell count and inflamatory cells between non-tumor tissue and pancreatic tumor tissue. No association was observed between CXCR4 expression and any of the clinical or pathological data, overall and disease-free survival rates. Analysing exclusively the stroma of tumor samples, the CXCR4 expression was associated with tumor differentiation, P-value = 0.05.
Conclusions. In this study we reflect the importance of CXCR4 expression in the stroma of patients diagnosed with PDAC. In the study of the CXCR4 expression in the stroma we found that more robust results could be generated. Considering the stroma as a component of the tumor mass in this type of cancer, the possible association found between CXCR4 expression in the stroma with tumor differentiation would lead us to propose this receptor as a candidate for the marker with prognostic value or as a possible therapeutic target.
Association of pronounced Elevation of NET formation and Nucleosome Biomarkers with Mortality in Patients with Septic Shock
Authors: Rahimi Muzhda Haem , Bidar Frank , Lukaszewicz Anne-Claire , Garnier Lorna , Payen-Gay Léa , Venet Fabienne , Monneret Guillaume
Published: June 2023

Background: Understanding the mechanisms underlying immune dysregulation in sepsis is a major challenge in developing more individualized therapy, as early and persistent inflammation, as well as immunosuppression, play a significant role in pathophysiology. As part of the antimicrobial response, neutrophils can release extracellular traps (NETs) which neutralize and kill microorganisms. However, excessive NETs formation may also contribute to pathogenesis, tissue damage and organ dysfunction. Recently, a novel automated assay has been proposed for the routine measurement of nucleosomes H3.1 (fundamental units of chromatin) that are released during NETs formation. The aim of the present study was to measure nucleosome levels in septic shock patients and to determine association with mortality.
Methods: 151 septic shock patients (SEPSIS-3 definition, IMMUNOSEPSIS cohort) were included. Plasma samples were obtained at 3 time-points (day 1-2, 3-4, 6-8 after admission). Nucleosomes H3.1 were measured using a chemiluminescent immunoassay. IL-6 and immunological cellular parameters were concomitantly assessed.
Results: The nucleosome H3.1 levels were markedly and significantly elevated at all-time points compared to the control group. Immunological parameters indicated tremendous early inflammation (IL-6 = 1335 pg/mL at day 1-2) along with marked immunosuppression (e.g., mHLA-DR = 3853 AB/C and CD4 = 338 /µL at day 3-4). We found significantly positive correlation between nucleosome levels and organ failure and severity scores, IL-6 concentrations and neutrophil count. Significantly higher values (day 1-2 & 3-4) were measured in non-survivor patients (28-day mortality). This association was still significant after multivariate analysis and was more pronounced with highest concentration. Early (day 1-2) increased nucleosome levels were also independently associated with 5-day mortality. At day 6-8, persistent elevated nucleosome levels were negatively correlated to mHLA-DR values.
Conclusions: This study reports a significant elevation of nucleosome in patients during a one-week follow-up. The nucleosome levels showed correlation with neutrophil count, IL-6 and were found to be independently associated with mortality assessed at day 5 or 28. Therefore, nucleosome concentration seems to be a promising biomarker for detecting hyper-inflammatory phenotype upon a patient's admission. Additional investigations are required to evaluate the potential association between sustained elevation of nucleosome and sepsis-induced immunosuppression.
Assessment of Water Quality Parameters in the Hooghly Estuary, India, using Sentinel-3 and Global Biogeochemical Analysis and Forecasts Products
Authors: Portel Vaishali , Prasad Rama Chandra
Published: June 2023

The Hooghly Estuary is a source of livelihood for millions of people, along with the sustenance of marine biodiversity. The frequent estimation of the water quality is a vital process for the estuary, mainly because of global warming and the changes it brings. Sentinel-3 data and Global Biogeochemical Analysis and Forecast Products from Copernicus for the years 2021 and 2022 were used in this study to assess the different water quality parameters, namely, Chlorophyll-a, Total Suspended Matter (TSM), Kd490 as a proxy for turbidity, Adg443 for Coloured Detrital Organic Matter (CDOM) concentration, Sea surface temperature (SST), Nitrate, Phosphate, Silicate, pH, Dissolved Inorganic Carbon (DIC) and Molecular dissolved oxygen (DO2), in the Hooghly Estuary. The main changes were observed during the monsoon and post-monsoon due to heavy rainfall causing runoffs and an increase in sediments from land, along with nutrients in the estuary, with lower SST and increased chlorophyll-a, which could also lead to eutrophication and harmful algal blooms, depleting oxygen levels and causing harm to the aquatic biota. The effects of cyclonic storms were also observed during the pre-monsoon in 2021 and the post-monsoon in 2022. Satellite data was therefore found to be adequate but not fully accurate for the assessment of water quality parameters in the Hooghly Estuary.
Association between lack of intensive care unit access and mortality in acute care surgery patients at two Rwandan university teaching hospitals: A cohort study
Authors: Manirabona Emmanuel , Ntirenganya Faustin , Rickard Jennifer
Published: June 2023

Background: Lack of access to intensive care unit (ICU) for both surgical and non-surgical patients is common in countries with limited resources. In the current literature, there is a paucity of published data on the outcome of critically ill patients who lacked ICU access after surgery. The aim of this study was to assess the mortality and length of hospital stay for operated acute care surgery (ACS) patientswith criteria of post-operative ICU admission.
Methods:This was prospective cohort study conducted on ACS patients with pre-operative criteria of ICU admission in two Rwandan university teaching hospitals. The patients were followed from admission until discharge or 30 days in-hospital. We documented basic characteristics, diagnosis, length of hospital stay and mortality. We compared mortality and length of stay in hospital for patients with timely admission, delayed admission, and patients not admitted to the ICU. Data was collected, electronically captured and analyzed using SPSS software.
Results: 213 ACS patients enrolled in this study. The rate of post-operative ICU access was 38.5% (n=82) with 53 (24.9%) patients with timely ICU admission and 29 (13.6%) with delayed ICU admission. The remaining 131 (61.5%) patients were not admitted to the ICU.
Mortality rate among patients with timely ICU admission was 26.4% versus 89.7% for delayed admission and 48.1% in patients with no ICU admission (p-value <0.001). The hospital-stay for timely ICU admission was 13.7 days versus 7.1 days in patients who had delayed ICU admission and 16.5 days for patients with no ICU admission (p-value <0.001).
Conclusion: This study showed high mortality of ACS patients who underwent surgery with criteria to be admitted in ICU postoperatively. Increasing ICU access has the potential to improve patient outcomes.
Treatment with GLP-1 receptor agonists is associated with significant weight loss and favorable headache outcomes in idiopathic intracranial hypertension
Authors: Krajnc Nik , Itariu Bianca , Macher Stefan , Marik Wolfgang , Harreiter Jürgen , Michl Martin , Novak Klaus , Wöber Christian , Pemp Berthold , Bsteh Gabriel
Published: June 2023

Background.
In idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH), sustained weight loss is the main pillar in modifying disease course, whereby glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1-RAs) could present an attractive treatment option.
Methods.
In this open-label, single-center, case-control pilot study, patients with IIH (pwIIH) and a body mass index (BMI) of ≥ 30 kg/m² were offered to receive a GLP-1-RA (semaglutide, liraglutide) in addition to the usual care weight management (UCWM). Patients electing for UCWM only served as a control group matched for age-, sex- and BMI (1:2 ratio). The primary endpoint was the percentage weight loss at six months (M6) compared to baseline. Secondary endpoints included the rate of patients with a weight loss of ≥ 10%, monthly headache days (MHD), the rate of patients with a ≥ 30% and ≥ 50% reduction in MHD, visual outcome parameters, and adverse events (AEs).
Results.
We included 39 pwIIH (mean age 33.6 years [SD 8.0], 92.3% female, median BMI 36.3 kg/m² [IQR 31.4–38.3]), with 13 patients being treated with GLP-1-RAs. At M6, mean weight loss was significantly higher in the GLP-1-RA group (–12.0% [3.3] vs. − 2.8% [4.7]; p < 0.001). Accordingly, weight loss of ≥ 10% was more common in this group (69.2% vs. 4.0%; p < 0.001). Median reduction in MHD was significantly higher in the GLP-1-RA group (–4 [–10.5, 0.5] vs. 0 [–3, 1]; p = 0.02), and the 50% responder rate was 76.9% vs. 40.0% (p = 0.04). Visual outcome parameters did not change significantly from baseline to M6. Median reduction in acetazolamide dosage was significantly higher in the GLP-1-RA group (–16.5% [–50, 0] vs. 0% [–25, 50]; p = 0.04). AEs were mild or moderate and attributed to gastrointestinal symptoms in 9/13 patients. None of the AEs led to premature treatment discontinuation.
Conclusions.
This open-label, single-center pilot study suggests that GLP-1-RAs are an effective and safe treatment option for achieving significant weight loss with a favorable effect on headache, leading to reduced acetazolamide dosage in pwIIH.
Characteristics and outcomes of patients hospitalized for infection with Influenza, SARS- CoV-2 or Respiratory Syncytial Virus in the season 2022/2023 in a large German primary care center
Authors: Quarg Carolin , Jörres Rudolf A. , Engelhardt Sebastian , Alter Peter , Budweiser Stephan
Published: June 2023

Background
In 2022/2023, Influenza A and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) reappeared in hospitalized patients, which was in parallel to ongoing SARS-CoV-2 infections. The aim of our study was to compare the characteristics and outcomes of these infections during the same time.
Methods
We included patients of all ages with a positive Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test for Influenza A/B, RSV, or SARS-CoV-2 virus hospitalized in the neurological, internal or paediatric units of the RoMed Hospital Rosenheim, Germany, between October 1st 2022 and February 28th 2023.
Results
A total of 906 patients were included (45.6% female; median age 68.0 years; 21.9% Influenza A, 48.2% SARS-CoV-2, 28.3% RSV). Influenza B (0.2%) and co-infections (1.5%) played a minor role. In patients aged ≥ 18 years (n = 637, 71%), Influenza A, SARS-CoV-2 and RSV groups differed in age (median 72, 79, 76 years, respectively; p < 0.001). Comorbidities, particularly asthma and COPD, were most prevalent for RSV. 103 patients were admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) (16.3% Influenza A, 15.3% SARS-CoV-2, 19.2% RSV; p = 0.649), 56 died (6.8% Influenza A, 9% SARS-CoV-2, 11.1% RSV; p = 0.496). RSV showed the highest frequencies of low-flow oxygen supplementation for admission and stay. Differences in the length of stay were minor (median 7 days). Conversely, in patients aged < 18 years (n = 254, 29%), 19.5%, 17.6% and 60.2% were in the Influenza A, SARS-CoV-2 and RSV groups, respectively; 0.4% showed Influenza B and 2.3% co-infections. 17 patients were admitted to ICU (4.5% Influenza A, 10.0% RSV, 0% SARS-CoV-2); none died. RSV showed the highest frequencies of high- and low-flow oxygen supplementation, SARS-CoV-2 the lowest. Young RSV patients stayed longer in the hospital compared to SARS-CoV-2 and Influenza A (median 4 versus 2 and 2 days; p < 0.001).
Conclusion
When comparing infections with Influenza, SARS-CoV-2 and RSV in the same winter period in hospitalized adult patients, rates of ICU admission and mortality were similar. RSV showed the highest frequencies of comorbidities, especially obstructive airway diseases, and of oxygen supplementation. The latter was also true in children/adolescents, in whom RSV dominated. The data suggest a relatively higher disease burden from RSV compared to Influenza and SARS-CoV-2 across ages.
Systemic inflammatory response Markers as Predictors of Oncologic Outcomes and Response to Intravesical Chemotherapy in Patients with non- muscle invasive bladder cancer
Authors: Wang Fei , Zhang Yongjie , Du Yiqing , Qin Caipeng , Liu Shijun , Li Qing , Xu Tao
Published: June 2023

Background
Patients with non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) maybe face the probability of recurrence or progression, yet it is difficult to seek robust prognostic indices. This study aimed to investigate the associations between the preoperative systemic inflammatory response (SIR) markers and oncologic outcomes in NMIBC .
Methods
We retrospectively collected data from 542 NMIBC patients undergoing transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT) between January 1999 to December 2019 in peking university people's hospital. The blood samples were collected from patients before TURBT. SIR markers including systemic inflammatory index (SII), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), monocyte-to-lymphocyte ratio (MLR) and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) values were calculated. Cox proportional hazards models evaluated associations between oncologic outcomes and ratios of SIR marks.
Results
Recurrence and progression were observed in 31.2% and 10.3% patients respectively. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses revealed that NLR (HR 1.54; 95%CI: 1.13–2.09, P = 0.007) was an independent predictive factor for RFS, and MLR (HR 2.28; 95% CI:1.30–4.02, P = 0.004) was an independent predictive factor for PFS. Patients with high NLR or MLR and no intravesical chemotherapy (IC) had the worst RFS or PFS respectively. patients with high MLR and IC had a better PFS than those without IC (P = 0.012).
Conclusions
Based on these results, SIR markers may be useful non-invasive and economical methods to identify patients at risk of relapse and progression and provide the probability of individual therapy for patients with NMIBC.
Post Hoc Explanations of Language Models Can Improve Language Models
Authors: Krishna Satyapriya , Ma Jiaqi , Slack Dylan , Ghandeharioun Asma , Singh Sameer , Lakkaraju Himabindu
Published: June 2023

Large Language Models (LLMs) have demonstrated remarkable capabilities in performing complex tasks. Moreover, recent research has shown that incorporating human-annotated rationales (e.g., Chain-of-Thought prompting) during in-context learning can significantly enhance the performance of these models, particularly on tasks that require reasoning capabilities. However, incorporating such rationales poses challenges in terms of scalability as this requires a high degree of human involvement. In this work, we present a novel framework, Amplifying Model Performance by Leveraging In-Context Learning with Post Hoc Explanations (AMPLIFY), which addresses the aforementioned challenges by automating the process of rationale generation. To this end, we leverage post hoc explanation methods which output attribution scores (explanations) capturing the influence of each of the input features on model predictions. More specifically, we construct automated natural language rationales that embed insights from post hoc explanations to provide corrective signals to LLMs. Extensive experimentation with real-world datasets demonstrates that our framework, AMPLIFY, leads to prediction accuracy improvements of about 10-25% over a wide range of tasks, including those where prior approaches which rely on human-annotated rationales such as Chain-of-Thought prompting fall short. Our work makes one of the first attempts at highlighting the potential of post hoc explanations as valuable tools for enhancing the effectiveness of LLMs. Furthermore, we conduct additional empirical analyses and ablation studies to demonstrate the impact of each of the components of AMPLIFY, which, in turn, lead to critical insights for refining in-context learning.
Green fabrication of wheat straw-based lignin containing nanofibril aerogels as recyclable absorbents for oil-water separation
Authors: Chen Xinyue , Yang Mingyan , Cai Xiaodan , An Linyu , Lai Kunrong , Dou Yan
Published: June 2023

Cellulose nanofibril (CNF) composite aerogels have been the focus of studies in organic solvent absorption and oil removal fields due to their low density, high absorption capacity, nontoxicity, and biodegradable properties. However, the complicated pretreatment process and increasing environmental concerns restrict the large-scale application of CNF-based materials. Herein, hydrophobic lignin-containing nanofibril (LCNF)/ polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) aerogels were prepared through freeze-drying and thermal chemical vapor deposition of methyl trichlorosilane (MTMS). The SEM and FT-IR results showed that modified LCNF/PVA (M-LCNF/PVA) aerogels incorporated a three-dimensional interpenetrating network structure and the hydrophobic siloxane coating was successfully prepared on the LCNF/PVA scaffold. The aerogel presented outstanding physical properties including a low density of 12.949 ± 0.402 mg/cm3, high porous of 98.99%, high flexibility, and enhanced compressibility due to the homogenous porous structure. The wettability test revealed that the aerogel, with a water contact angle (WCA) up to 146 ± 1.89°, was highly hydrophobic.The modified aerogel exhibited absorption capacity for various oil and organic solvents and the maximal adsorption capacity of M-LCNF/0.25PVA aerogel for chloroform can reach 106.80 ± 4.97 g/g aerogel. In addition, the modified aerogel is capable of separating emulsified water/oil mixtures, which broad its potential application. Notably, the aerogel demonstrated good reusability because it still maintained more than 61.44% of its original uptake capacity after 10 times extrusion cycle. The facile technique for the preparation of LCNFs from low-cost lignocellulosic biomass without a chemical bleaching process is green, sustainable, and can be used to fabricate high-efficiency LCNF-based sorbents from agricultural waste for oil and industrial organic solvent spills.
Precisely tuning the residual stress anisotropy in machine hammer peening
Authors: Liu Qi , Jin Siyu , Shen Bin
Published: June 2023

Machine hammer peening (MHP) is a novel surface modification process that can strengthen and smoothen the treated parts in one process, significantly improving their fatigue performance. The strengthening effect is mainly due to the induced highly controllable residual compressive stress on the subsurface. However, the residual compressive stress induced by MHP is usually anisotropic, with the component perpendicular to the feed direction more significant than parallel. The anisotropic residual stress will have an adverse effect if the treated parts are subjected to multiaxial loads, which puts forward high demands to precisely tune such anisotropy. For this purpose, a finite element model with a velocity-based driving mode is first established in this paper, which can simulate the residual stress induced by MHP. The origin of the anisotropy is then revealed by analyzing the evolution of the simulated residual stress. Based on this, methods to precisely tune the residual stress anisotropy are proposed. The residual stress anisotropy can be precisely tuned by optimizing MHP parameters, including the overlap ratio, impact velocity, and MHP path.
The Heterogeneous Impact of Social Distancing on Household-Level Economic Performances: Evidence from a Large Survey in Vietnam
Authors: Le-Van Dao
Published: June 2023

This study utilizes a large dataset surveyed by Facebook and several academic institutions to examine the heterogeneous impact of social distancing on household-level economic performances, employing the generalized method of moments (GMM) estimator and controlling multi-channel fixed effects. In particular, in our case study, the Vietnamese government’s sudden social distancing policy, which is seen as a quasi-experiment, has created favourable conditions to evaluate the causality of this nexus. The results confirm the negative impact of social distancing on unemployment likelihood, especially for women and lower education levels groups. Notably, we also find that people with less desirable economic status (i.e., higher rate of unemployment and food insecurity) are more heavily hurt by social distancing practices. Therefore, the findings suggest the need for welfare programs for these disadvantaged groups post-pandemic.
JEL codes: A13, C31, H75, J18
Delay Modelling of Selected Trains in Indian Railways
Authors: Banerjee Shyamal Sundar , Panja Subhash Chandra , Bhattacharyya Avijit , Sharma Sunil Kumar
Published: June 2023

India runs the fourth largest railway transport network size carrying over 8 billion passengers per year. However, the travel experience of passengers is frequently marked by delays, i.e., late arrival of trains at stations, causing inconvenience. Categorically in India, the situation needs to improve due to the high number of passengers. As per the Indian Railways website,around 25.3 million people used to travel by train in 2006 which drastically increased year on year to 80 million in 2018. The primary aim of this paper is to model the delays of trains to understand its pattern over the period of time. Train delay is a set of observations which varies over time and hence it is Time Series data. Since in this study delay in arrival at destination of 20 trains have been collected over multiple points in time, multiple tools and machine learning algorithms suitable for modelling such data mainly regression based methods that may fit the train delay modelling have been discussed here. It is seen at the end of this research that Extra Trees Regression performs better to model the train delay data.
Preferensi Pengunjung Taman di Kota Malang Terhadap Fasilitas Taman Pasca Pandemi Covid-19
Authors: Santoso Dian Kartika , Dewanto Yudhistira Adit , Kholishotunni’amillah  , Rachmawati Siti Hazar , Risnawati
Published: June 2023

Title: Park Visitor Preferences On Park Facilities In Malang City Post-Covid-19 Pandemic
 
The end of the Covid-19 Pandemic has made people return to their activities in public open spaces. After the post-Covid-19 pandemic, garden facilities are one of the essential things in an Open Green Space. This parking facility must comply with the ongoing New Normal Standards. Urban park in Malang needs to be measured to explore user preferences for park facilities after the Covid-19 pandemic. The analytical method used is a descriptive quantitative approach. Data collection was carried out through a survey using a questionnaire with a Likert scale. The results obtained from this study were that there was no change in visitor preferences before and after Covid-19. visitor preferences for park facilities in Malang City found that for hygiene & health facilities, the most needed are toilets, hand washing areas and trash cans, as for the most needed security facilities, namely security posts and fences. The most needed supporting facilities are seats, sports facilities and parking lots.
Presence and quantification of the microplastics and bisphenol-A in sediments along the Guanabara Bay, Brazil
Authors: Santos Ana , Carvalho Diego , Nascimento Marília , Freitas Alex , Hauser-Davis Rachel , Cunha Danieli , Fonseca Estefan , Bila Daniele , Baptista-Neto José Antonio
Published: June 2023

Microplastics (MP) and endocrine disruptors, such as bisphenol-A (BPA) have both become significant environmental concerns worldwide, although assessments in estuarine environments are still scarce. In this regard, Guanabara Bay is one of the most important Brazilian estuarine systems, displaying significant economic and environmental relevance, although it has suffered increasing anthropogenic effects for decades. Thus, this study aimed to assess the occurrence of both MP and BPA in the sediments of this estuarine system though stereomicroscope identification and high-performance liquid chromatography. Both pollutants were detected in all sediment samples. A total of 3 to 11 MP particles (<5 mm) per 50 cm2 were detected, higher than in other studies worldwide. MPs were categorized as fibers and fragments, mostly green, possibly from fisher rope and net degradation. BPA ranged from 0.36 to 19.75 ng g-1, higher near Governador Island and the Rio de Janeiro harbor. Potential correlations between MPs and BPA, however, could not be determined. Both MP and BPA represent significant environmental concerns in the already highly impacted Guanabara Bay estuarine system, and further assessments are paramount to understand potential ecotoxicological hazards associated to these pollutants.
GERENCIALISMO
Authors: Amato Marcio Antonio Bastos , Moraes Danielle Ribeiro de
Published: June 2023

Com as mudanças progressivas na organização do trabalho da Nova Gestão Pública, as práticas gerencialistastêm sido cada vez mais comuns nas formas de operação e definição de processos. Neste trabalho apresentamosuma análise exploratória a partir de buscas bibliográficas sobre gerencialismo realizadas na biblioteca virtualScielo.org. Apresentamos as estratégias de buscas utilizadas e o resultado da análise de 82 textos publicados.Ainda que pertencentes a diferentes campos e áreas de conhecimento, percebe-se que o gerencialismo tem sidoretratado pela maioria dos autores não apenas como um modelo gerencial. A maior parte dos textos opera numregistro crítico às repercussões das práticas gerencialistas, nomeando o gerencialismo como modo central deoperação do neoliberalismo, e relacionando-o a processos de precarização do trabalho e fragmentação da gestão.
GESTÃO DE TRANSFERÊNCIA DE TECNOLOGIA
Authors: Villanueva de Castro Ramos Isabella , Sartori Rejane
Published: June 2023

A transferência de tecnologia busca transferir conhecimentos e inovações de uma organização para outra, e é considerada um importante instrumento para a promoção de competitividade no setor produtivo, bem como para o desenvolvimento industrial e econômico das nações. Para que alcance o objetivo a que se propõe, são necessárias estruturas de apoio e práticas de gestão de transferência de tecnologia. Desse modo, o presente estudo tem como objetivo analisar como o tema gestão de transferência de tecnologia vem sendo explorado recentemente em pesquisas nacionais e internacionais. Trata-se de um estudo de caráter exploratório, com abordagem qualitativa, realizado por meio de uma revisão sistemática da literatura. Os resultados evidenciam estudos que se relacionam com o tema, permitindo classificá-los em três grupos: modelos de transferência de tecnologia, processos de transferência de tecnologia colaborativos e análise da gestão de transferência de tecnologia. Os estudos revelam que, atualmente, o processo de transferência de tecnologia não atende as necessidades e complexidades das relações que se estabelecem com esse propósito, sendo preciso maior interação entre as partes interessadas, assim como considerar os diferentes aspectos que permeiam esse processo. Os escritórios de transferência de tecnologia são estruturas para a gestão da transferência de tecnologia, contudo, precisam ter atuação fortalecida para garantir o sucesso da transferência de tecnologia. Para estudos futuros, sugere-se a realização de novas pesquisas em diferentes bases de dados, bem como a realização de análises e comparações do processo de transferência de tecnologia em países em desenvolvimento.
Recent Insights into Osimertinib Analogues against EGFR Positive
Non-small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Chhabra Jatin , Kashyap Priyanka , Pahwa Rakesh , Narang Rakesh , Dureja Harish , Lal Sukhbir , Verma Sangeeta
Published: June 2023

Background:

Lung cancer is a highly lethal malignancy with a poor prognosis and the leading cause of mortality worldwide. The development of mutations makes lung cancer treatment more challenging and expensive. Successful identification of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations led to the discovery of various third-generation tyrosine kinase inhibitors. Osimertinib is one of the promising and efficacious third-generation EGFR inhibitors and is mainly employed in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer. Despite the initial effective response, osimertinib causes resistance in most of the patients after around 10 months of therapy, resulting in disease progression. To mitigate the effect of developed resistance, different osimertinib derivatives have been synthesized and evaluated by numerous research groups across the globe.

Methods:

Present article illustrates recent research advancements for the utilization of osimertinib and its derivatives in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Last seven years literature search has been conducted from PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar databases, etc.

Result:

The present review emphasizes the recent advancements of osimertinib analogues that lead to enhanced antitumor potential and safety profile against non-small cell lung cancer. This manu-script also summarizes the different synthetic schemes involved in the synthesis of osimertinib ana-logues against EGFR reported by different research groups.

Conclusion:

Anticancer mechanistic insights, analytical prospects, drug interactions, pharmacoki-netic considerations, and resistance profile of osimertinib are highlighted in the current manuscript.
Schisandrin B Inhibits Cell Viability and Malignant Progression of Melanoma Cells
via Wnt/β-catenin Signaling Pathway
Authors: Chen Jiayi , Zhang Lingzhao , Pu Yihuan , Chen Yangmei , Li Yuxin , Pan Xingyu , Chen Jin
Published: June 2023

Background:

Melanoma is of great interest due to its aggressive behavior and less favorable prognosis. The
need for the development of novel drugs for the treatment of melanoma is urgent. Considerable evidence indicated that
Schisandrin B (Sch B), a bioactive compound extracted from Schisandra chinensis, has numerous anti-tumor properties
in multiple malignant tumors. A few studies have reported the effect of Sch B on melanogenesis in the melanoma
B16F10 cell line; however, the specific anti-tumor effects and mechanisms need to be further explored.

Objective:

This study aimed to investigate the effects of Sch B on the cell viability, migration, invasion, and cell cycleblocking
of melanoma cells and explore its potential anti-tumor mechanism in vitro and in vivo.

Methods:

Melanoma cells (A375 and B16) were treated with different concentrations of Sch B (0, 20, 40, 60, or 80
μM), with dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) as control. The inhibitory effect of Sch B on A375 and B16 melanoma cells
was verified by crystal violet assay and CCK8 assay. The flow cytometry was performed to observe cell cycle blocking.
The effect of Sch B on the migration and invasion of melanoma cells was detected by wound healing assay and
transwell assay, respectively. Western blot analysis was used to determine protein expression levels. The growth of the
A375 melanoma xenograft-treated groups and immunohistochemical staining were conducted to assess the anti-tumor
effect of Sch B in vivo.

Results:

The crystal violet assay and CCK8 assay showed that Sch B significantly inhibited melanoma cell viability in
a dose-dependent manner. Meanwhile, the flow cytometry analysis revealed that Sch B induced melanoma cell cycleblocking
at the G1/S phase. In addition, the wound healing assay and transwell assay showed that Sch B inhibited the
migration and invasion of melanoma cells. Furthermore, by establishing an animal model, we found that Sch B significantly
inhibited the growth of melanoma in vivo. The potential mechanism could be that Sch B inhibited the activity of
the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.

Conclusion:

These findings indicated that Sch B inhibits the cell viability and malignant progression of melanoma
cells via the Wnt/β-catenin pathway and induces cell cycle arrest. Our study suggests that Sch B has potential as a
bioactive compound for the development of new drugs for melanoma.
Baseline and Outcome Comparison of Adolescents in Treatment
for Opioid and Non-opioid Use Disorder
Authors: LaCasse Matthew , Loh Ryan , Thurstone Christian
Published: June 2023

Background:

In the current opioid epidemic, little is known about
differences in treatment structure for youth with opioid use disorder (OUD) and
youth with other substance use disorders.

Objective:

This study analyzed baseline characteristics and outcome data
comparing youth who suffer from OUD vs. those with other substance use disorders
in an urban Denver, Colorado clinic.

Methods:

A retrospective cohort review was conducted, analyzing clinical data
between February 2017 and March 2021. Two groups were created and compared:
those with OUD (n = 59) and those with other substance use disorders (n = 417).
The primary outcome variable was achieving a negative urine drug screen within 16
weeks of baseline assessment. We hypothesized that there would be no difference
between the groups in the primary outcome variable.

Results:

Youth with OUD were slightly older and had more co-morbid stimulant
use disorder. No difference between the groups was observed in achieving a
negative urine drug screen within 16 weeks.

Conclusion:

A multimodal, generalized treatment approach yielded similar
outcomes for those suffering from OUD compared to those with other substance
use disorders. There might not need to be significant variances in treatment
approach depending on the specific substance use disorder.
Artificial Intelligence Nano-Robots
Authors: Guliani E.
Published: June 2023

The interaction of humans with technology is greatly connected and built up by trust, it is an inevitable user acceptance that is required at every step. There is an existence of applications of artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics in the field of engineering, architecture, and construction industry. Therefore, there is a requirement for carrying out studies related to the trust aspect in every system. As artificial intelligence (AI) and robots are increasingly taking place in practical service solutions, it is necessary to understand technology in value co-creation. There has been a tremendous advancement in the field of nanotechnology which has ultimately led to the production of nanorobots, and these have a wide range of applications in nanomedicine. Thus, a nanorobot being an artificial device should be employed and used as a strategy to escape from such kind of immune system. To prevent barriers during the movement trajectory, a self-organized trajectory should be planned for a nanorobot to function accordingly. Due to some of the practical limitations, all the scientists could afford to compromise the product design so that it suits the needs in various stages from a unique design position. This revolution might place the twenty-first century at a decisive position in the era of history.
Artificial Intelligence in Material Genomics
Authors: Hoskeri J.
Published: June 2023

The invention of new materials with desired properties is always a matter of interest. The material genome projects and material genome initiative have bought new insights into material genomics. Artificial intelligence (AI) is the decision-making ability of a computable machine. AI in material genomics has stimulated the field of material science. AI tools like Atom2vec, MATLAB, ICSD, MPIinterfaces, PyCDT, and AFLOWLIB have opened ways for the discovery of various materials. These AI tools and databases are also efficient in the property prediction of new materials, improvement in characterization protocols, experimental parameter standardization, fastening simulation scale, development of high throughput methods, and data analysis. The current chapter is focused on AI-based developments in the material genomics.
Nanomaterials as Photocatalyst
Authors: Potbhare A.K.
Published: June 2023

Clean and drinkable water is a big challenge in 21st century. A variety of organometallic compounds have been utilized by human being for rapid civilization and modernization. These hazardous waste discharges from the industries and directly mixed with environment especially in water reservoir and adulterate water, which is responsible for many contagious diseases. To vanquish this issue we needed an eco-friendly, safe, cost-effective nanomaterials for the degradation and removal of noxious waste. In this chapter emphasized on different nanomaterials as photocatalyst for photocatalytic performances, also critically discussed applicability of different nanomaterials for photocatalytic process comprising with types photocatalyst, light source, scavengers, trapping agents, photodegradation activity mechanism and its utility. Moreover, removal of toxic dyes, pharmaceutical drugs, agrochemical waste, heavy metal ions, and phenolic compounds have been discussed.
Emerging Trends of Nanotechnology in Cosmetics
Authors: Nagpal G.
Published: June 2023

Cosmetics attract most age groups from teenagers to old age. Cosmetic goods now contain a variety of nanoparticle and nanomaterial types. Nano cosmeceuticals have changed the era of cosmetics as they have advanced delivery mechanisms with task specifications. They are used in nail, hair, lip, and skin care products by cosmetic giants including Estee Lauder, L’oreal, Nivea, Zelens, and Derma Swiss, etc., and have patented the use of dozens of "nanosome particles.” The global market for cosmetics using nanotechnology is worth millions of dollars and increasing at 7.14% annually. Liposomes, niosomes, nanostructured lipid carriers, solid lipid nanoparticles, gold nanoparticles, nanoemulsions, and nanosomes are novel nanocarriers that are now used in a variety of cosmeceuticals for drug delivery to achieve site specification, improved stability, biocompatibility, extended action, and increased drug-loading capacity. In this chapter use of various nanocarriers in cosmetic applications with their safety concerns will be discussed.
Nanotechnology in Agricultural Practices: Prospects and Potential
Authors: Giri N.G.
Published: June 2023

The novel features of nano confined materials properties are widely explored in several agricultural practices i.e. seed coating, soil conditioning, preservatives and packaging of agro based products. The evolution of materials properties due to nano confinements like controlled degradability, solubility, responsiveness, gas barrier and porosity has added several suitable advantageous features in agriculture practices to help the farmers, traders, consumers and policy makers. In the context of the above development, the present chapter describes the basic features of nano materials to use in agricultural practices along with their impact and effectiveness. Further, the suitable scheme and illustration are used on the basis of available literatures to make the subject lucid and effective along with existing challenges.