bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing the eco-environmental aspects of fossil fuels-based units substitution of Point Aconi thermal power plant by green-based energies: a case study of Canada
Authors: Amiri Nima , Shaterabadi Mohammad , Ben-Brahim Lazhar , Ahmadi Jirdehi Mehdi
Published: June 2024

Canada possesses significant potential in harnessing renewable energy from its vast and diverse geography, which can generate clean electricity. This paper presents a model that replaces fossil fuels used in a proposed thermal power plant in Point Aconi, Nova Scotia, with photovoltaic and wind turbine units based on the region’s climate conditions. The research results are based on evaluating multiple thermal power plants worldwide and examining various wind turbines and PV panels from different companies to ensure accuracy. The chosen units that best suit the location’s geographical and biological conditions, transmission, and operation costs demonstrate that the power plant currently consumes approximately 47 tons of coal and petroleum coke per hour. Replacing these materials with the proposed green units makes it possible to reduce environmental pollution by eliminating almost 165 tons of CO2 and other pollutants per hour while increasing the plant’s efficiency and independence from fossil fuel price variations. The presented structure’s ROI is approximately 20 years, which is reasonable compared to the economic and environmental benefits of utilizing such a structure and converting the thermal power plant to green units.
Newton strata in Levi subgroups
Authors: Schremmer Felix
Published: June 2024

Certain Iwahori double cosets in the loop group of a reductive group, known under the names of P-alcoves or $$(J,w,\delta )$$

(
J
,
w
,
δ
)

-alcoves, play an important role in the study of affine Deligne–Lusztig varieties. For such an Iwahori double coset, its Newton stratification is related to the Newton stratification of an Iwahori double coset in a Levi subgroup. We study this relationship further, providing in particular a bijection between the occurring Newton strata. As an application, we prove a conjecture of Dong-Gyu Lim, giving a non-emptiness criterion for basic affine Deligne–Lusztig varieties.
The research on the effect of dynamic tilt variation on the phase of cold atomic gravimeter
Authors: Chen Peijun , Zhou Yin , Zhu Dong , Wang Kainan , Zhang Chan , Peng Shuping , Cheng Bing , Wu Bin , Lin Qiang
Published: June 2024

In recent years, absolute gravity comparison experiments between cold atomic gravimeter and traditional gravimeter have been carried out by combining cold atomic gravimeter with stable platform. Due to the working characteristics of the stable platform, the tilt angle of the cold atomic gravimeter will change slightly in the process of dynamic measurement, and the measurement noise will be introduced. In order to improve the accuracy of dynamic measurement, this paper first analyzes the trajectory of the mirror and atom in the atomic gravimeter combined with carrier motion information, obtains the phase expression of the atomic interferometer using the translation and rotation matrix, evaluates the main terms of the gravity deviation using the 20-min navigation data on the ship in the South China Sea, and simplifies the higher-order small-terms in the main terms to deduce the simplified form of the gravity deviation. Then, the Fourier transform is used to transform the simplified expression into the power spectrum expression of phase noise, the corresponding noise sensitivity function is used in the form of trigonometric. The 20-min data is divided into 10 intervals, the root-mean-square (RMS) value of the overall gravity deviation is 1.5–3 mGal using the power spectrum of the platform angle, angular velocity and carrier acceleration in each interval. The variation fluctuation of the RMS value is consistent with the fluctuation of solving the gravity deviation through the trajectory. The conclusion provides the calculation method of gravity noise caused by dynamic tilt change and horizontal acceleration, and also provides the basis for platform design.
Exploring GZMK as a prognostic marker and predictor of immunotherapy response in breast cancer: unveiling novel insights into treatment outcomes
Authors: Li Zitao , Xie Qiqi , Zhao Fuxing , Huo Xinfa , Ren Dengfeng , Liu Zhilin , Zhou Xiaofeng , Shen Guoshuang , Zhao Jiuda
Published: June 2024

Background

Granzyme K (GZMK) is a crucial mediator released by immune cells to eliminate tumor cells, playing significant roles in inflammation and tumorigenesis. Despite its importance, the specific role of GZMK in breast cancer and its mechanisms are not well understood.

Methods

We utilized data from the TCGA and GEO databases and employed a range of analytical methods including GO, KEGG, GSEA, ssGSEA, and PPI to investigate the impact of GZMK on breast cancer. In vitro studies, including RT-qPCR, CCK-8 assay, cell cycle experiments, apoptosis assays, Celigo scratch assays, Transwell assays, and immunohistochemical methods, were conducted to validate the effects of GZMK on breast cancer cells. Additionally, Cox regression analysis integrating TCGA and our clinical data was used to develop an overall survival (OS) prediction model.

Results

Analysis of clinical pathological features revealed significant correlations between GZMK expression and lymph node staging, differentiation grade, and molecular breast cancer subtypes. High GZMK expression was associated with improved OS, progression-free survival (PFS), and recurrence-free survival (RFS), as confirmed by multifactorial Cox regression analysis. Functional and pathway enrichment analyses of genes positively correlated with GZMK highlighted involvement in lymphocyte differentiation, T cell differentiation, and T cell receptor signaling pathways. A robust association between GZMK expression and T cell presence was noted in the breast cancer tumor microenvironment (TME), with strong correlations with ESTIMATEScore (Cor = 0.743, P < 0.001), ImmuneScore (Cor = 0.802, P < 0.001), and StromalScore (Cor = 0.516, P < 0.001). GZMK also showed significant correlations with immune checkpoint molecules, including CTLA4 (Cor = 0.856, P < 0.001), PD-1 (Cor = 0.82, P < 0.001), PD-L1 (Cor = 0.56, P < 0.001), CD48 (Cor = 0.75, P < 0.001), and CCR7 (Cor = 0.856, P < 0.001). Studies indicated that high GZMK expression enhances patient responsiveness to immunotherapy, with higher levels observed in responsive patients compared to non-responsive ones. In vitro experiments confirmed that GZMK promotes cell proliferation, cell division, apoptosis, cell migration, and invasiveness (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Our study provides insights into the differential expression of GZMK in breast cancer and its potential mechanisms in breast cancer pathogenesis. Elevated GZMK expression is associated with improved OS and RFS, suggesting its potential as a prognostic marker for breast cancer survival and as a predictor of the efficacy of immunotherapy.
Early periodontal wound healing after chlorhexidine rinsing: a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Graziani Filippo , Izzetti Rossana , Perić Marina , Marhl Urška , Nisi Marco , Gennai Stefano
Published: June 2024

Objectives

This single-center randomized, parallel design, clinical trial with a 2-week follow-up involved patients affected by periodontitis undergoing periodontal surgery. The aim was to evaluate periodontal surgical wound healing with the use of chlorhexidine-based mouth rinses versus an untreated control group.

Materials and methods

Periodontal surgery was performed following a standardized protocol. Patients were randomly prescribed i) chlorhexidine (CHX) + anti-discoloration system (ADS) + hyaluronic acid (HA), ii) CHX + ADS or iii) no treatment (control group). Plaque score, gingival inflammation, and Early Healing Index (EHI), assessing the degree of wound closure and the presence of fibrin and necrosis, were evaluated at 3, 7 and 14 days after surgery.

Results

In total, 33 patients were enrolled. Patients were comparable at baseline for all measured clinical parameters. At 3-days wound healing was significantly improved in all patients treated with CHX + ADS-based mouth rinses with a lower EHI score at the interdental papillae compared with control group (p < 0.01). CHX + ADS + HA group presented improved healing across all time points in terms of EHI, plaque containment, and gingival inflammation when compared to control group (p < 0.01).

Conclusions

The usage of CHX-ADS following periodontal surgery improved early wound healing, reduced plaque accumulation and gingival inflammation. During the early post-operative period the adjunct of HA further improved soft tissue closure.

Clinical relevance

This study aims at evaluating the response of gingival tissues to mouth rinsing with chlorhexidine and anti-discoloration system (CHX + ADS) or CHX + ADS + hyaluronic acid (CHX + ADS + HA) versus no rinse in terms of healing of the periodontal surgical wound. CHX + ADS mouth rinses enhanced early soft tissue closure after periodontal surgery and contributed to the reduction in plaque accumulation and gingival inflammation. The adjunct of HA may be beneficial especially in the early post-operative period. CHX + ADS administration following periodontal surgery may improve soft tissue healing in the first two post-operative weeks.
Prediction of residual stress depth profiles in case-carburized gears
Authors: Müller Daniel , Tobie Thomas , Stahl Karsten
Published: June 2024

Residual stresses have a significant influence on the load carrying capacity of gears. High near-surface compressive residual stresses can increase pitting strength and tooth root bending strength up to 50%. Tooth flank fracture (TFF) is a gear fatigue failure mode, which is in contrast to pitting or tooth root breakage not initiated at the surface or close to the surface but in larger material depths beneath the active gear flank. Therefore, the residual stresses in larger material depths are decisive for TFF. In these larger material depths, the residual stress conditions are almost unknown up to now. It is assumed that tensile residual stresses are present in these areas, which can negatively influence the TFF load carrying capacity. So far, no validated methods are known to estimate or predict these tensile residual stresses. As a result, the tensile residual stresses could not be considered in the calculation methods for the risk of TFF at all until recently.

This paper presents a method to predict the residual stresses in case-carburized gears based on comprehensive numerical simulations of case-carburizing processes of different-sized gears. The calculated residual stress profiles also consider the tensile residual stresses in larger material depths.
Guiding real-world reinforcement learning for in-contact manipulation tasks with Shared Control Templates
Authors: Padalkar Abhishek , Quere Gabriel , Raffin Antonin , Silvério João , Stulp Freek
Published: June 2024

The requirement for a high number of training episodes has been a major limiting factor for the application ofReinforcement Learning(RL) in robotics. Learning skills directly on real robots requires time, causes wear and tear and can lead to damage to the robot and environment due to unsafe exploratory actions. The success of learning skills in simulation and transferring them to real robots has also been limited by the gap between reality and simulation. This is particularly problematic for tasks involving contact with the environment as contact dynamics are hard to model and simulate. In this paper we propose a framework which leverages a shared control framework for modeling known constraints defined by object interactions and task geometry to reduce the state and action spaces and hence the overall dimensionality of the reinforcement learning problem. The unknown task knowledge and actions are learned by a reinforcement learning agent by conducting exploration in the constrained environment. Using a pouring task and grid-clamp placement task (similar to peg-in-hole) as use cases and a 7-DoF arm, we show that our approach can be used to learn directly on the real robot. The pouring task is learned in only 65 episodes (16 min) and the grid-clamp placement task is learned in 75 episodes (17 min) with strong safety guarantees and simple reward functions, greatly alleviating the need for simulation.
Efficient Hydrogen Evolution from Dimethylamine Borane, Ammonia Borane and Sodium Borohydride Catalyzed by Ruthenium and Platinum Nanoparticles Stabilized by an Amine Modified Polymer Immobilized Ionic Liquid: a Comparative Study
Authors: Alharbi Adhwa A. , Wills Corinne , Dixon Casey , Arca Elisabetta , Chamberlain Thomas W. , Griffiths Anthony , Collins Sean M. , Wu Kejun , Yan Han , Bourne Richard A. , Knight Julian G. , Doherty Simon
Published: June 2024

Platinum and ruthenium nanoparticles stabilised by an amine modified polymer immobilised ionic liquid (MNP@NH2-PEGPIILS, M = Pt, Ru) catalyse the hydrolytic liberation of hydrogen from dimethylamine borane (DMAB), ammonia borane (AB) and NaBH4 under mild conditions. While RuNP@NH2-PEGPIILS and PtNP@NH2-PEGPIILS catalyse the hydrolytic evolution of hydrogen from NaBH4 with comparable initial TOFs of 6,250 molesH2.molcat−1.h−1 and 5,900 molesH2.molcat−1.h−1, respectively, based on the total metal content, RuNP@NH2-PEGPIILS is a markedly more efficient catalyst for the dehydrogenation of DMAB and AB than its platinum counterpart, as RuNP@NH2-PEGPIILS gave initial TOFs of 8,300 molesH2.molcat−1.h−1 and 21,200 molesH2.molcat−1.h−1, respectively, compared with 3,050 molesH2.molcat−1.h−1 and 8,500 molesH2.molcat−1.h−1, respectively, for PtNP@NH2-PEGPIILS. Gratifyingly, for each substrate tested RuNP@NH2-PEGPIILS and PtNP@NH2-PEGPIILS were markedly more active than commercial 5wt % Ru/C and 5wt% Pt/C, respectively. The apparent activation energies of 55.7 kJ mol−1 and 27.9 kJ mol−1 for the catalytic hydrolysis of DMAB and AB, respectively, with RuNP@NH2-PEGPIILS are significantly lower than the respective activation energies of 74.6 kJ mol−1 and 35.7 kJ mol−1 for its platinum counterpart, commensurate with the markedly higher initial rates obtained with the RuNPs. In comparison, the apparent activation energies of 44.1 kJ mol−1 and 46.5 kJ mol−1, for the hydrolysis NaBH4 reflect the similar initial TOFs obtained for both catalysts. The difference in apparent activation energies for the hydrolysis of DMAB compared with AB also reflect the higher rates of hydrolysis for the latter. Stability and reuse studies revealed that RuNP@NH2-PEGPIILS recycled efficiently as high conversions for the hydrolysis of DMAB were maintained across five runs with the catalyst retaining 97% of its activity.

Graphical Abstract
Deoxynivalenol induces m6A-mediated upregulation of p21 and growth arrest of mouse hippocampal neuron cells in vitro
Authors: Xu Peirong , Zhao Yulan , Feng Yue , Zhao Mindie , Zhao Ruqian
Published: June 2024

Hippocampal neurons maintain the ability of proliferation throughout life to support neurogenesis. Deoxynivalenol (DON) is a mycotoxin that exhibits brain toxicity, yet whether and how DON affects hippocampal neurogenesis remains unknown. Here, we use mouse hippocampal neuron cells (HT-22) as a model to illustrate the effects of DON on neuron proliferation and to explore underlying mechanisms. DON exposure significantly inhibits the proliferation of HT-22 cells, which is associated with an up-regulation of cell cycle inhibitor p21 at both mRNA and protein levels. Global and site-specific m6A methylation levels on the 3’UTR of p21 mRNA are significantly increased in response to DON treatment, whereas inhibition of m6A hypermethylation significantly alleviates DON-induced cell cycle arrest. Further mechanistic studies indicate that the m6A readers YTHDF1 and IGF2BP1 are responsible for m6A-mediated increase in p21 mRNA stability. Meanwhile, 3’UTR of E3 ubiquitin ligase TRIM21 mRNA is also m6A hypermethylated, and another m6A reader YTHDF2 binds to the m6A sites, leading to decreased TRIM21 mRNA stability. Consequently, TRIM21 suppression impairs ubiquitin-mediated p21 protein degradation. Taken together, m6A-mediated upregulation of p21, at both post-transcriptional and post-translational levels, contributes to DON-induced inhibition of hippocampal neuron proliferation. These results may provide new insights for epigenetic therapy of neurodegenerative diseases.

Graphical abstract

DON inhibits the proliferation of HT-22 cells.

RNA m6A hypermethylation on the transcript of p21 enhances the mRNA stability in a YTHDF1- and IGF2BP1-dependent manner, which leads to the upregulation of p21.

RNA m6A hypermethylation on the transcript of TRIM21 decreases the mRNA stability in a YTHDF2-dependent manner, which contributes to prevent p21 ubiquitin-mediated degradation.

High expression of p21 contributes to inhibit cell proliferation.
Evaluating the Experience of Teen-to-Teen Crisis Line Volunteers: A Pilot Study
Authors: Glenn Catherine R. , Kalgren Taylor , Dutta Sandipan , Kandlur Raksha , Allison Kelsie K. , Duan Annie , Eskin Cheryl Karp , Leets Morgan , Gould Madelyn S.
Published: June 2024

Teen-to-teen (t2t) crisis lines are a special type of crisis service where youth volunteers help their peers. Although prior research has examined the experience of adult crisis line responders, no research has examined the experience of adolescents who do this work. In collaboration with two of the largest t2t lines in the U.S., this pilot study is the first examination of t2t crisis line work. Volunteers (ages 14–20) reported: their primary motivation for joining the crisis lines was to help others and give back to the community; responding to a range of peers’ problems on the t2t crisis line, including high-risk suicide contacts; and a range of ways the crisis line work impacted their lives. Findings provide preliminary information about the experience of adolescents engaging in t2t crisis line work. Additional research is needed in larger and more diverse samples to understand the impact of crisis line work for youth.
Revitalising learning in three university contexts: Unleashing the power of the Quizizz app to increase self-efficacy, intrinsic motivation, satisfaction and performance
Authors: Hernanz Virginia , Latorre-Cosculluela Cecilia , Suárez Cristina , Lanchares-Sancho Elena
Published: June 2024

Considering the innovative learning approach of incorporating gamification educational dynamics, this study focused on analyzing differences in the effects of using Quizizz depending on the degree of practical focus that different university degrees have. By applying game elements in non-game contexts, gamification has been recognized as a strategy that can increase student motivation and engagement. After applying the four-month innovation experience in three degree programs (Engineering, Business Administration, and Education), the perceptions of the 179 participating students were evaluated regarding intrinsic motivation, self-efficacy in learning, satisfaction with the use of applications to gamify learning and academic performance. Furthermore, possible differences in these dimensions were explored depending on the degree of practical orientation that each university degree has. The results suggest that students in the educational area express more favorable perceptions about the improvement of their learning with this gamification experience, while Business Administration students are those who express the worst perceptions. The implications of these results are discussed considering the influence that variables such as the active and participatory role of students, the usefulness of the content in the professional future, or the conceptual and theoretical nature of each university degree can exert.
Applying the 6E learning by design model to support student teachers to integrate artificial intelligence applications in their classroom
Authors: Saimon Musa , Mtenzi Fredrick , Lavicza Zsolt , Fenyvesi Kristóf , Arnold Maik , Diego-Mantecón José Manuel
Published: June 2024

The 6E Learning by Design (LbD) model can enhance student teachers’ development of competence for integrating technologies in the classrooms including Artificial Intelligence (AI). However, teacher educators rarely use the 6E LbD model in supporting and encouraging student teachers to integrate AI applications in their classrooms effectively. To attract teacher educators to use the 6E LbD model, in the present study, we modeled learning activities for each phase. We also examined the impact of the 6E LbD model in supporting student teachers to integrate AI in the classroom. We adopted a Participatory Action Research approach implemented in two cycles. We collected data from 35 student teachers who were selected purposively. We collected data through observation, reflective journals and document analysis. We observed student teachers during the classroom activities and analysed their lesson plans and reflective journals, and interpreted data based on a thematic analysis. Findings show that there are various activities facilitating learning in different phases of the 6E LbD model. Also, findings show that the 6E LbD enables student teachers to develop skills and competence for integrating AI in their classrooms. The findings show that an evidence-based approach will motivate teacher educators to use the 6E LbD model.
Temperature and Cognitive Performance: Evidence from Mental Arithmetic Training
Authors: Krebs Benjamin
Published: June 2024

With rising average temperatures and extreme heat events becoming more frequent, understanding the ramifications for cognitive performance is essential. I estimate the effect of outside air temperature on performance in mental arithmetic training games. Using data from 31,000 individuals and 1.15 million games played, I analyze frequent engagement in a cognitively challenging task in a non-stressful and familiar environment. I find that, above a threshold of 16.5 $$^{\circ }$$

∘

C, a 1 $$^{\circ }$$

∘

C increase in outside air temperature leads to a performance reduction of 0.13%. The effect is mostly driven by individuals living in relatively cold areas, who are less adapted to hot temperatures.
Predictive Pattern of Undrained Shear Strength in Stabilized Sulfur Rich Silty Soil Based on Binder and Initial Mixing Water Content
Authors: Zigharib Alaleh , Jia Qi , Macsik Josef , Laue Jan , Maurice Christian
Published: June 2024

A laboratory investigation was conducted to identify principal variables-initial mixing water content, porosity, and binder content- impacting undrained shear strength (qu) of stabilized sulfur-rich silty soil. An equation for predicting qu of stabilized soil was established based on the experimental data. Initially, samples were prepared with soils sample with different initial water and binder contents. Multicem, a binder consisting of a mix of cement and cement kiln dust, was added to the samples. Three different percentages of Multicem were mixed at five different soil water contents to measure qu of stabilized mixtures to understand how water content and porosity levels in the samples affect the performance of the binder and their combined impact on the strength of the samples. The soil-binder mixtures were compacted and subsequently cured in laboratory-controlled environment. The prepared samples were tested in uniaxial compression test apparatus. The results evidenced that binder content and corresponding porosity affect the strength of specimens at an equal water content. The results showed that at equal initial mixing water content, the qu of a sample increased by increasing binder content. Furthermore, it was observed that increase of binder content has a reverse effect on porosity. It was appeared lowering the soil water content, initially increased the strength until an optimum water content. Further lowering water content increased the porosity and consequently decreased qu of samples. Moreover, a ratio of porosity/volumetric binder content was chosen to evaluate the impact of these two variables on strength of samples. This study showed that qu is an exponential function of porosity/binder volumetric content ratio which depends on initial mixing water content of mixtures. It was shown at water content lower than the optimum, results of stabilization are more effective than in soil at higher water contents. Therefore, reducing the water content and thereby porosity has more significant effect on improving qu than increasing the binder content.
Spatial inequality in the accessibility of healthcare services in the Philippines
Authors: Leyso Novee Lor , Umezaki Masahiro
Published: June 2024

Ensuring equitable access to healthcare is important for universal health coverage (UHC). Using the enhanced two-step floating catchment area (E2SFCA) method, we found disparities in the spatial accessibility of outpatient and inpatient healthcare facilities in the Philippines, particularly in the central and southern regions of the country. Municipalities with a higher proportion of older people had better spatial accessibility to outpatient care, while municipalities with a higher density of older people had better accessibility to inpatient care. Municipalities with high poverty rates had better accessibility to outpatient care but poorer accessibility to inpatient care. Addressing these disparities is essential for achieving UHC in the Philippines.
Reflecting on the Science of Climate Tipping Points to Inform and Assist Policy Making and Address the Risks they Pose to Society
Authors: Stocker T. F. , Jones R. G. , Hegglin M. I. , Lenton T. M. , Hegerl G. C. , Seneviratne S. I. , van der Wel N. , Wood R. A.
Published: June 2024

There is a diverging perception of climate tipping points, abrupt changes and surprises in the scientific community and the public. While such dynamics have been observed in the past, e.g., frequent reductions of the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation during the last ice age, or ice sheet collapses, tipping points might also be a possibility in an anthropogenically perturbed climate. In this context, high impact—low likelihood events, both in the physical realm as well as in ecosystems, will be potentially dangerous. Here we argue that a formalized assessment of the state of science is needed in order to establish a consensus on this issue and to reconcile diverging views. This has been the approach taken by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). Since 1990, the IPCC has consistently generated robust consensus on several complex issues, ranging from the detection and attribution of climate change, the global carbon budget and climate sensitivity, to the projection of extreme events and their impact. Here, we suggest that a scientific assessment on tipping points, conducted collaboratively by the IPCC and the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services, would represent an ambitious yet necessary goal to be accomplished within the next decade.
Evaluation of Storage Placement in Computing Continuum for a Robotic Application
Authors: Bakhshi Zeinab , Rodriguez-Navas Guillermo , Hansson Hans , Prodan Radu
Published: June 2024

This paper analyzes the timing performance of a persistent storage designed for distributed container-based architectures in industrial control applications. The timing performance analysis is conducted using an in-house simulator, which mirrors our testbed specifications. The storage ensures data availability and consistency even in presence of faults. The analysis considers four aspects: 1. placement strategy, 2. design options, 3. data size, and 4. evaluation under faulty conditions. Experimental results considering the timing constraints in industrial applications indicate that the storage solution can meet critical deadlines, particularly under specific failure patterns. Comparison results also reveal that, while the method may underperform current centralized solutions in fault-free conditions, it outperforms the centralized solutions in failure scenario. Moreover, the used evaluation method is applicable for assessing other container-based critical applications with timing constraints that require persistent storage.
Making tacit knowledge explicit: the case for online peer feedback in the studio critique
Authors: Fleischmann Katja
Published: June 2024

Design education traditionally centers around the critique as a pivotal assessment process, fostering the development of both explicit and tacit knowledge within the physical studio environment. Ideally, the critique encourages students to develop their creativity, sharpen their thought processes and refine their technique. This study contributes to the ongoing discourse on technology-enhanced teaching in practice-based design studios by examining the effectiveness of online peer critique as a strategy to capture tacit knowledge and make it explicit in the design learning environment. Drawing on the experiences of 90 undergraduate visual communication design students, findings show the critique process was a collaborative experience which afforded the fluid exchange of both tacit and explicit knowledge. Technology played a key role in this knowledge exchange, giving students a confidence in their creative abilities as observers and participants. The online process facilitated anonymity, enabling open and honest communication, while digital records supported post-critique reflection. Despite challenges, this systematic approach to online peer critique proves beneficial in fully online courses and warrants exploration in physical design studios given that more programs transitioning to blended learning. This research contributes to the discourse on leveraging technology for tacit knowledge construction and learning in design education.
The finding of anisotropic compatibility of grain boundaries in a directionally solidified superalloy
Authors: Tan Yuanguo , Zhang Weiwei , Gao Nong , Reed Philippa
Published: June 2024

The anisotropic compatibility of grain boundaries (GBs) is found in a directionally solidified superalloy, when loading is aligned with (L sample) or transverse (T sample) to the grain growth direction. The greater compatibility of GBs is shown in the L sample by calculating the parameter m′ of the GBs using two developed models. The first model considers the theoretical scenario that grains grow along the perfect [001] orientation, and the compatibility between the neighbouring grains with all kinds of orientation difference is calculated. The second model, termed as Schmid-factor-tolerance model, considers the effects of asymmetrical slip systems caused by the deviation of grain growth direction from the [001] orientation in a real microstructure. Validation of the model is achieved through fatigue tests, demonstrating its capability to interpret and predict the crack initiation behaviours at grain boundaries. Combined with the fatigue tests to illustrate the anisotropic fracture behaviours of the L and T specimens, it shows that the intergranular cracks are more likely to occur in the T specimen with poor compatibility, which proves the capability of predicting the intergranular cracks for the Schmid-factor-tolerance model.
Investigation of miltefosine-model membranes interactions at the molecular level for two different PS levels modeling cancer cells
Authors: Çetinel Züleyha Özçelik , Bilge Duygu
Published: June 2024

Miltefosine (MLT) is a broad-spectrum drug included in the alkylphospholipids (APL) used against leishmania and various types of cancer. The most crucial feature of APLs is that they are thought to only kill cancerous cells without harming normal cells. However, the molecular mechanism of action of APLs is not completely understood. The increase in the phosphatidylserine (PS) ratio is a marker showing the stage of cancer and even metastasis. The goal of this research was to investigate the molecular effects of miltefosine at the molecular level in different PS ratios. The effects of MLT on membrane phase transition, membrane orders, and dynamics were studied using DPPC/DPPS (3:1) and DPPC/DPPS (1:1) multilayer (MLV) vesicles mimicking DPPS ratio variation, Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), and Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Our findings indicate that miltefosine is evidence at the molecular level that it is directed towards the tumor cell and that the drug’s effect increases with the increase of anionic lipids in the membrane depending on the stage of cancer.
An Unmet goal? A Scale Development and Model test of the role of Inclusive Leadership
Authors: Merlini Katrina P. , Moon Nicholas A. , McKenzie-James Allyson A. , Caylor Jesse R. , Redmond Alexandria , Nguyen Dan , Richardson Phylicia
Published: June 2024

There is a lack of evidence on whether inclusive leadership (IL) truly fosters inclusion for those in historically marginalized groups. Further, a conceptually up-to-date and practically useful measure of IL is lacking. Thus, in two separate phases, we first present a newly developed measure of IL and then test an empirical model. In Phase 1, results from five demographically diverse samples demonstrate reliability and validity evidence of a 10-item IL scale. In Phase 2, use this scale to examine how IL may support members of historically marginalized groups by fostering (a) interpersonal behaviors that uphold inclusive work environments (allyship, antiracism) and (b) individual experiences of inclusion (workgroup inclusion, authenticity). Path analysis results from a multi-wave study support the influence of IL on these outcomes and also demonstrate support for IL’s indirect effects on outcomes that may be disproportionately high (emotional exhaustion) and low (empowerment) for members of marginalized groups. Moderation analyses reveal many of the hypothesized relationships are similar across groups representing marginalized identities on the bases of race, sex, and the intersection of race and sex. These results add evidence to the importance of IL for fostering inclusive workplaces, especially for those who face the greatest barriers to inclusion.
Andreev reflection, Andreev states, and long ballistic SNS junction
Authors: Sonin Edouard
Published: June 2024

The analysis in the present paper is based on the most known concept introduced by the brilliant physicist Alexander Andreev: Andreev bound states in a normal metal sandwiched between two superconductors. The paper presents results of direct calculations of ab initio expressions for the currents in a long ballistic SNS junction. The expressions are expanded in 1/L (L is the thickness of the normal layer). The main contribution $$\propto 1/L$$

∝
1
/
L

to the current agrees with the results obtained in the past, but the analysis suggests a new physical picture of the charge transport through the junction free from the problem with the charge conservation law. The saw-tooth current-phase relation at $$T=0$$

T
=
0

directly follows from the Galilean invariance of the Bogolyubov–de Gennes equations proved in the paper. The proof is valid for any variation of the energy gap in space if the Andreev reflection is the only scattering process. The respective roles of the contributions of bound and continuum states to the current are clarified. They depend on the junction dimensionality.
A Sinc Rule for the Hankel Transform
Authors: Denich Eleonora , Novati Paolo
Published: June 2024

This paper deals with the computation of the Hankel transform by means of the sinc rule applied after a special exponential transformation. An error analysis, particularly suitable for meromorphic functions, together with the parameter selection strategy, is considered. A prototype algorithm for automatic integration is also presented.
Promoting Safe Sleep: The Role of Doulas in Black Communities
Authors: Howard Stephenie , Dancy Shannon
Published: June 2024

Background

Accidental suffocation and strangulation in bed continues to be a critical issue in Black communities, despite the widespread initiatives to promote safe sleep. Doulas are in an ideal position to promote safe sleep, particularly in hard-to-reach communities that are more distrusting of conventional medical providers. Little is known about their practices and perspectives for putting infants down to rest. This study informs this gap in the literature.

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to explore doulas’ perspectives and practices in the field of putting infants down to sleep. The researchers aimed to determine whether Black caregivers that work with doulas are likely to encounter safe sleep education.

Methods

The researchers used a descriptive approach to inquiry. They conducted three focus groups with a total of 17 Black doulas. The researchers independently and critically reviewed the transcriptions and observation notes from each group to identify codes. They then triangulated the results using Artificial Intelligence-driven tools.

Findings

The study found four themes: (1) Individualized Services, (2) Cultural Sensitivity, (3) Negotiating Safety, and (4) Safe Sleep Education.

Conclusions

The study concluded doulas have a commitment to promoting safe sleep. The researchers found that doulas engage in practices that help caregivers to integrate safe sleep practices into their lifestyle and to adapt them to meet their needs. The researchers also documented a desire for more information and instruction on safe sleep among practicing doulas.
Central nervous system regulation of diffuse glioma growth and invasion: from single unit physiology to circuit remodeling
Authors: Picart Thiebaud , Hervey-Jumper Shawn
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Understanding the complex bidirectional interactions between neurons and glioma cells could help to identify new therapeutic targets. Herein, the techniques and application of novel neuroscience tools implemented to study the complex interactions between brain and malignant gliomas, their results, and the potential therapeutic opportunities were reviewed.

Methods

Literature search was performed on PubMed between 2001 and 2023 using the keywords “glioma”, “glioblastoma”, “circuit remodeling”, “plasticity”, “neuron networks” and “cortical networks”. Studies including grade 2 to 4 gliomas, diffuse midline gliomas, and diffuse intrinsic pontine gliomas were considered.

Results

Glioma cells are connected through tumour microtubes and form a highly connected network within which pacemaker cells drive tumorigenesis. Unconnected cells have increased invasion capabilities. Glioma cells are also synaptically integrated within neural circuitry. Neurons promote tumour growth via paracrine and direct electrochemical mechanisms, including glutamatergic AMPA-receptors. Increased glutamate release in the tumor microenvironment and loss of peritumoral GABAergic inhibitory interneurons result in network hyperexcitability and secondary epilepsy. Functional imaging, local field potentials and subcortical mapping, performed in awake patients, have defined patterns of malignant circuit remodeling. Glioma-induced remodeling is frequent in language and even motor cortical networks, depending on tumour biological parameters, and influences functional outcomes.

Conclusion

These data offer new insights into glioma tumorigenesis. Future work will be needed to understand how tumor intrinsic molecular drivers influence neuron-glioma interactions but also to integrate these results to design new therapeutic options for patients.
Nested Entity Recognition Method Based on Multidimensional Features and Fuzzy Localization
Authors: Zhao Hua , Bai Xueyang , Zeng Qingtian , Zhou Heng , Bai Xuemei
Published: June 2024

Nested named entity recognition (NNER) aims to identify potentially overlapping named entities. Sequence labeling method and span-based method are two commonly used methods in nested named entity recognition. However, the linear structure of sequence labeling method results in relatively poor performance, and span-based method requires traversing all spans, which brings very high time complexity. All of them fail to effectively leverage the positional dependencies between internal and external entities. In order to improve these issues, this paper proposed a nested entity recognition method based on Multidimensional Features and Fuzzy Localization (MFFL). Firstly, this method adopted the shared encoding that fused three features of characters, words, and parts of speech to obtain a multidimensional feature vector representation of the text and obtained rich semantic information in the text. Secondly, we proposed to use the fuzzy localization to assist the model in pinpointing the potential locations of entities. Finally, in the entity classification, it used a window to expand the sub-sequence and enumerate possible candidate entities and predicted the classification labels of these candidate entities. In order to alleviate the problem of error propagation and effectively learn the correlation between fuzzy localization and classification labels, we adopted multi-task learning strategy. This paper conducted several experiments on two public datasets. The experimental results showed that the proposed method achieves ideal results in both nested entity recognition and non-nested entity recognition tasks, and significantly reduced the time complexity of nested entity recognition.
Ferritinophagy and Ferroptosis in Cerebral Ischemia Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Liu Xiaoyue , Xie Canming , Wang Yao , Xiang Jing , Chen Litong , Yuan Jia , Chen Chutao , Tian Haomei
Published: June 2024

Cerebral ischemia–reperfusion injury (CIRI) is the second leading cause of death worldwide, posing a huge risk to human life and health. Therefore, investigating the pathogenesis underlying CIRI and developing effective treatments are essential. Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent mode of cell death, which is caused by disorders in iron metabolism and lipid peroxidation. Previous studies demonstrated that ferroptosis is also a form of autophagic cell death, and nuclear receptor coactivator 4(NCOA4) mediated ferritinophagy was found to regulate ferroptosis by interfering with iron metabolism. Ferritinophagy and ferroptosis are important pathogenic mechanisms in CIRI. This review mainly summarizes the link and regulation between ferritinophagy and ferroptosis and further discusses their mechanisms in CIRI. In addition, the potential treatment methods targeting ferritinophagy and ferroptosis for CIRI are presented, providing new ideas for the prevention and treatment of clinical CIRI in the future.
Mapping varieties of farmers’ experience in the digital transformation: a new perspective on transformative dynamics
Authors: Knitsch Valentin , Daniel Lea , Welz Juliane
Published: June 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the vulnerabilities of the global food system, underscoring the need for a sustainable transformation of the food system. With the advent of new digital technologies emerging as critical tools for achieving the agricultural shift, it is important to understand farmers’ adoption decisions better. This study aims to systematically uncover and delineate the varied forms of experiences farmers have with new digital technologies and investigate how these experiences impact the organizational adoption decisions on the farm. In this study, twenty interviews with apple growers, wine makers, and intermediaries from a German region encompassing Saxony, Thuringia, and Saxony–Anhalt were conducted and analyzed. Through the lens of the modified adaptive capacity wheel and alongside the interview data, five relevant types of experiences were identified. These types of experiences are closely related to farmers’ adaptation motivation (AM) and adaptation belief (AB), potentially influencing their future decisions about the adoption of digital technologies. This study highlights the importance of creating meaningful experiences with technologies to strengthen farmers’ AM and AB.
The impact of orthographic knowledge on reading development in German third graders
Authors: Marković Jelena , Brod Garvin , Tetzlaff Leonard
Published: June 2024

Orthographic knowledge (i.e., the knowledge of conventions of a written language) has been identified as a predictor of both basic and higher-level reading processes, however, mostly examined in a cross-sectional design. It remains unclear, whether and how orthographic knowledge contributes uniquely in explaining differences in the acquisition of reading skills. The aim of this study was therefore to examine the effects of orthographic knowledge on basic (word-reading) and higher level (sentence- and text-comprehension) reading development in German third graders over the course of a schoolyear. 325 German speaking children (mean age = 8.35 years, standard deviation = 0.57; 49% girls) participated in the study, 100 of whom also provided data on vocabulary and naming speed. Data were analyzed via multiple regression in hierarchical models with random intercepts, since the children were nested in classes. The longitudinal analyses showed that orthographic knowledge contributes to the development of reading on the word- and text-level, over and above vocabulary knowledge and naming speed. These findings support and extend previous results, showing that orthographic knowledge not only supports reading processes, but also plays an important role in reading development over the course of a schoolyear. The fact that no significant interaction between orthographic knowledge and reading comprehension could be found implies that orthographic knowledge is relevant for reading development in German third graders, independent of the level of reading proficiency. The present findings suggest that orthographic knowledge should be considered in reading instruction at school as well as during reading related interventions.
Trends and Motivations in Critical Quantitative Educational Research: A Multimethod Examination Across Higher Education Scholarship and Author Perspectives
Authors: Winkler Christa E. , Wofford Annie M.
Published: June 2024

To challenge “objective” conventions in quantitative methodology, higher education scholars have increasingly employed critical lenses (e.g., quantitative criticalism, QuantCrit). Yet, specific approaches remain opaque. We use a multimethod design to examine researchers’ use of critical approaches and explore how authors discussed embedding strategies to disrupt dominant quantitative thinking. We draw data from a systematic scoping review of critical quantitative higher education research between 2007 and 2021 (N = 34) and semi-structured interviews with 18 manuscript authors. Findings illuminate (in)consistencies across scholars’ incorporation of critical approaches, including within study motivations, theoretical framing, and methodological choices. Additionally, interview data reveal complex layers to authors’ decision-making processes, indicating that decisions about embracing critical quantitative approaches must be asset-based and intentional. Lastly, we discuss findings in the context of their guiding frameworks (e.g., quantitative criticalism, QuantCrit) and offer implications for employing and conducting research about critical quantitative research.
Magnetic Reconnection and Associated Particle Acceleration in High-Energy Astrophysics
Authors: Guo Fan , Liu Yi-Hsin , Zenitani Seiji , Hoshino Masahiro
Published: June 2024

Magnetic reconnection occurs ubiquitously in the universe and is often invoked to explain fast energy release and particle acceleration in high-energy astrophysics. The study of relativistic magnetic reconnection in the magnetically dominated regime has surged over the past two decades, revealing the physics of fast magnetic reconnection and nonthermal particle acceleration. Here we review these recent progresses, including the magnetohydrodynamic and collisionless reconnection dynamics as well as particle energization. The insights in astrophysical reconnection strongly connect to the development of magnetic reconnection in other areas, and further communication is greatly desired. We also provide a summary and discussion of key physics processes and frontier problems, toward a better understanding of the roles of magnetic reconnection in high-energy astrophysics.