bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
From birth control to pronatalism: Population policy and women’s reproductive rights in China since the 1980s
Authors: Cai Yiping , Liu Bohong
Published: December 2024

China began to implement a draconian population policy in the early 1980s. This policy has experienced many adjustments, as well as amendments, since then, and even a policy overturn since the 2010s from birth control to natalism. This study examines Chinese women’s reproductive rights in the trajectory of China’s population policy in the last four decades. It applies the analytical framework made up of the United Nations Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women, the International Conference on Population and Development Program of Action, and the Beijing Platform for Action of the Fourth World Conference on Women to critically review the impact of the relevant Chinese laws and policies on women’s reproductive rights, including the Chinese Constitution, the Law on Population and Family Planning, and the Law on the Protection of Women’s Rights and Interests, and their amendments. It reveals that these policy shifts are the result of the assemblages of the longstanding proactive policy interventions by diverse subjects and actors, including policy makers/party state, demographers, technocracies, international development agencies and donors, sexuality education advocates, and local and transnational feminists. The women’s bodies, and their critical roles both in production and reproduction, have always been, and continue to be, at the centre of political debates and the main sites of negotiation, contestation, and intervention, globally and locally.
Class-specific feature selection for enhancing explainability in ensemble classification models
Authors: Aguilar-Ruiz Jesús S.
Published: December 2024

Feature selection techniques aim at finding a relevant subset of features that perform equally or better than the original set of features at explaining the behavior of data. Typically, features are extracted from feature ranking or subset selection techniques, and the performance is measured by classification or regression tasks. However, while selected features may not have equal importance for the task, they do have equal importance for each class. The fundamental idea of the class-specific concept resides in the understanding that the significance of each feature can vary from one class to another. This contrasts with the traditional class-independent approach, which evaluates the importance of attributes collectively for all classes. For example, in tumor prediction scenarios, each type of tumor (class) may be associated with a distinct subset of relevant features. These features possess significant discriminatory power, enabling the differentiation of one tumor type from others (classes). This class-specific perspective offers a more effective approach to classification tasks by recognizing and leveraging the unique characteristics of each class. A novel deep one-versus-each strategy is introduced, which offers advantages from the point of view of explainability (feature selection) and decomposability (classification). In addition, the class-specific relevance matrix is presented, from which some more sophisticated classification schemes can be derived, such as the three-layer class-specific scheme. These schemes have the great advantage to combine independent classification units (e.g., neural networks) that use a reduced number of features to target each class. The potential for further advancements in this area is wide and will open new horizons for exploring novel research directions in interdisciplinary fields, particularly in complex, multiclass hyperdimensional contexts (e.g., in genomics).
Energy Storage Configuration and Benefit Evaluation Method for New Energy Power Plants Based on Game Theory
Authors: Zhou Shucan , Wu Weijie , Sun Yujun , Zhang Yining , Li Yixin , Zheng Xin , Su Xiangyang
Published: December 2024

In the context of increasing renewable energy penetration, energy storage configuration plays a critical role in mitigating output volatility, enhancing absorption rates, and ensuring the stable operation of power systems. This paper proposes a benefit evaluation method for self-built, leased, and shared energy storage modes in renewable energy power plants. First, energy storage configuration models for each mode are developed, and the actual benefits are calculated from technical, economic, environmental, and social perspectives. Then, the CRITIC method is applied to determine the weights of benefit indicators, and the TOPSIS method is used to rank the overall benefits of each mode. Simulation results validate the effectiveness of the proposed method and compare the benefits of the three modes, showing that the leased mode provides the highest overall benefit. This study provides a quantitative reference for the rational selection of energy storage modes in renewable energy projects.
Risk-Based Quality Management: A Case for Centralized Monitoring
Authors: Stansbury Nicole , Branco Danilo , McDavid Cris , Stewart Jennifer , Surdam Kristin , Olson Nycole , Perry Joanne , Liska Jeremy , Phillips Linda , Coogan Amanda , Adelfio Anina , Garson Lauren
Published: December 2024

Since 2019, the Association of Clinical Research Organizations has conducted a landscape survey of risk based quality management (RBQM) adoption in clinical trials. Here, we present data from four years of surveys, with an emphasis on the most recent: the 2022 survey included data from 4958 trials across seven contract research organizations, of which 1004 were new studies started in 2022. Results indicate that while overall risk assessment adoption is strong, it is lagging in other risk-based components which suggests companies are not deriving the full expected benefits of performing a risk assessment and mitigation process to their trials. The 2022 study also suggests new study starts showing promising traction, with adoption hovering near 50% for most RBQM elements. At the same time, the survey suggests industry has mixed views on the potential value of quality tolerance limits (QTLs). Ultimately, centralized monitoring is being underutilized despite the potential of increased patient safety oversight and improved data quality. The authors of this paper developed a case study based on a trial in clinicaltrials.gov to demonstrate how RBQM adoption could include the key RBQM elements such as centralized monitoring, reduced source data review and source data verification as well as implementation of QTLs in a real-world scenario. The authors believe the clinical trial industry has an obligation to utilize centralized monitoring to produce more efficient and effective clinical trials and will make a case to do so in this paper.
Biogenic synthesis of silver nanoparticles using Spirulina maxima extract and their bactericidal activity
Authors: Hanisha R. , Balaganapathy M. , Eswar B. , Kathirvelan P. , Rajabathar Jothi Ramalingam , Siddiqui Nadeem , Dinakarkumar Yuvaraj
Published: December 2024

This study reports a biogenic synthesis protocol for silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) utilizing Spirulina maxima extract as a natural reducing agent, offering an economically viable and environmentally sustainable approach. The biosynthesis pathway eliminates conventional chemical reagents while maximizing process sustainability. Comprehensive characterization of the synthesized nanostructures was performed using UV-spectrophotometry, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. FTIR spectroscopic studies revealed the role of proteinaceous compounds and biomolecules in AgNP formation and stabilization. The biosynthesized AgNPs demonstrated notable antimicrobial efficacy against two pathogenic bacteria: Enterococcus faecalis and Staphylococcus aureus, producing inhibition zones of 3.2 and 2.5 mm, respectively. This investigation establishes Spirulina maxima-mediated synthesis as an efficient and cost-effective route for producing antimicrobial silver nanostructures, advancing sustainable nanomaterial production methodologies.

Graphical Abstract
Waves and non-propagating modes in stratified MHD turbulence subject to a weak mean magnetic field
Authors: Salhi A. , Khlifi A. , Marino R. , Feraco F. , Foldes R. , Cambon C.
Published: December 2024

In this study we consider a freely decaying, stably stratified homogeneous magnetohydrodynamic turbulent plasma with a weak vertical background magnetic field (

$\boldsymbol {B}_0=B_0\hat {\boldsymbol {z}}),$

aligned with the density gradient of strength

$N$

(i.e. Brunt–Väisälä frequency). Both linear theory and direct numerical simulations (DNS) are used to analyse the flow dynamics for a Boussinesq fluid with unitary magnetic and thermal Prandtl numbers. We implemented a normal mode decomposition emphasizing different types of motions depending on whether both the Froude

$F_r$

and Alfvén–Mach

$M$

numbers are small or only

$F_r$

is small but

$M$

is finite. In the former case, there is a non-propagating (NP) mode and fast modes: Alfvén waves with frequency

$\omega _a$

and magnetogravity waves with frequency

$\omega _{ag}$

. In the latter case, there are fast gravity waves with frequency

$\omega _g$

and slow modes: NP mode and slow Alfvén waves. The numerical simulations carried out are started from initial isotropic conditions with zero initial magnetic and density fluctuations, so that the initial energy of the NP mode is strictly zero, for

$0< B_0/(L_iN)\leqslant 0.12$

and a weak mean magnetic field (

$B_0=0.2$

or

$B_0=0.4),$

where

$L_i$

denotes the isotropic integral length scale. The DNS results indicate a weak turbulence regime for which

$F_r$

is small and

$M$

is finite. It is found that the vertical magnetic energy as well as the energy of the NP mode are drastically reduced as

$N$

increases, while there is instead a forward cascade even for the magnetic field. The contribution coming from the energy of fast (gravity) waves does not exceed

$50\,\%,$

while that coming from the energy of the NP mode does not exceed

$10\,\%.$

Vertical motions are more affected by the effect of stratification than by the effect of the mean magnetic field, while it is the opposite for horizontal motions. We show that the spectrum of slow (Alfvén) waves and fast (gravity) waves tends to follow the power law

$k_\perp ^{-3}$

for a wide range of time,

$3< t<20$

. At high vertical (or horizontal) wavenumbers, the main contribution to total energy comes from the energy of slow Alfvén waves. At large and intermediate horizontal (or vertical) scales, the spectra of the energy of NP mode exhibit a flat shape.
The “Case” for Independent Courts: The Insurance Theory of Judicialization in Autocracies
Authors: Davis Taraleigh
Published: December 2024

Why would authoritarian rulers allow for an independent judiciary that could constrain their power? This study extends the insurance theory of judicial independence to autocratic contexts, arguing that when leaders perceive a higher risk of losing office, they become more likely to tolerate or create independent courts as a safeguard against potential post-exit reprisals. Using a novel two-stage analytical approach, I construct a hazard rate for each country year from the Geddes et al. (2014) autocratic regime dataset, based on factors directly observable to autocratic leaders. This hazard rate serves as a proxy for perceived risk of losing power. My findings provide robust evidence that higher perceived risk is significantly associated with greater judicial independence in autocratic regimes, even when controlling for economic development, regime longevity, and court age. This research offers crucial insights into autocratic governance, demonstrating that promoting judicial independence can be a calculated strategy for regime survival rather than merely a democratic concession.
Chia seed supplementation and inflammatory biomarkers: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Pam Pedram , Asemani Sanaz , Azizi Mohammad Hesam , Jamilian Parmida
Published: December 2024

Chia seeds have gained attention for their potential anti-inflammatory properties, which may be attributed to their high content of omega-3 fatty acids, dietary fibre, and antioxidants. This study aims to provide an overview of the current understanding regarding the effects of chia seeds on inflammatory markers, specifically C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). A comprehensive literature search was conducted on PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane, and Google Scholar up to June 2024. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the effect of chia seed on CRP or/and IL-6 or/and TNF-α. Data were extracted and analysed using a random-effects model, and reported as weighted mean differences (WMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Subgroup and sensitivity analyses were also performed. Four RCTs involving 210 participants were included in the meta-analysis. The results showed that chia consumption significantly decreased CRP (WMD: –0.64 mg/dl; 95% CI: –1.24, –0.04; P = 0.03). But it had no significant effect on IL-6 (WMD: 0.29 pg/dl; 95% CI: –0.40, 0.98; P = 0.41), and TNF-α (WMD: 0.05%; 95% CI: –0.21 to 0.30; P = 0.72). Chia consumption can significantly decrease CRP, but no significant effect was observed on IL-6 and TNF-α. To prove our findings, more studies with a larger sample size are needed.
On the collisional sensitivity of polarised Mg II solar lines
Authors: Derouich M. , Qutub S.
Published: December 2024

Neutral and singly ionised states of the magnesium (Mg) are the origin of several spectral lines that are useful for solar diagnostic purposes. An important element in modelling such solar lines is collisional data of the Mg with different perturbers abundant in the Sun, specially with neutral hydrogen. This work aims at providing complete depolarisation and polarisation and population transfer data for Mg II due to collisions with hydrogen atoms. For this purpose, a general formalism is employed to calculate the needed rates of MgII due to collisions with hydrogen atoms. The resulting collisional rates are then employed to investigate the impact of collisions on the polarisation of 25 Mg II lines relevant to solar applications by solving the governing statistical equilibrium equations within multi-level and multi-term atomic models. We find that the polarisation of some Mg II lines starts to be sensitive to collisions for hydrogen density

$n_H \!\gtrsim\!$

10

$^{14}$

cm

$^{-3}$

.
Smooth permutations and polynomials revisited
Authors: GORODETSKY OFIR
Published: December 2024

We study the counts of smooth permutations and smooth polynomials over finite fields. For both counts we prove an estimate with an error term that matches the error term found in the integer setting by de Bruijn more than 70 years ago. The main term is the usual Dickman
$\rho$
function, but with its argument shifted.

We determine the order of magnitude of
$\log(p_{n,m}/\rho(n/m))$
where
$p_{n,m}$
is the probability that a permutation on n elements, chosen uniformly at random, is m-smooth.

We uncover a phase transition in the polynomial setting: the probability that a polynomial of degree n in
$\mathbb{F}_q$
is m-smooth changes its behaviour at
$m\approx (3/2)\log_q n$
.
Multicancer Early Detection Screening Tools: Not Economically Efficient, Not Ethically Equitable, Marginally Medically Effective
Authors: Fleck Leonard M.
Published: December 2024

A screening test for more than 50 cancers at earlier stages would strike many as a godsend. Such a test would promise, prima facie, to save 160,000 lives annually from a premature death from cancer, reduce the intensity of medical treatment, and reduce social costs. In brief, this is what is promised by the Galleri test. We will delineate those claims in greater detail and critically assess them from medical, economic, and ethical perspectives. We conclude, with many others, that this test lacks clinical validity and clinical utility. In addition, annual public funding of $100 billion for this test would be socially unaffordable; the opportunity costs would be unacceptable for both ethical and economic reasons. Further, the least well off with respect to cancer care would be made worse off if this test were publicly funded for everyone over the age of fifty.
Joseph Joachim and Bach's Chaconne
Authors: Eshbach Robert Whitehouse
Published: December 2024

And they will long to have heard Joachim's violin-playing as we long to have heard Bach at his organ: not from curiosity to verify an old record of technical prowess, but from the desire to recover the unrecorded manifestations of a creative mind.
Propertiana
Authors: Woodman A. J.
Published: December 2024

The textual criticism of various passages of Propertius.
Heavy-boundary mode patterning and dynamics of topological phonons in polymer chains and supramolecular lattices on surfaces
Authors: Cojal González José D. , Rondomanski Jakub , Polthier Konrad , Rabe Jürgen P. , Palma Carlos-Andres
Published: December 2024

In topological band theory, phonon boundary modes consequence of a topologically non-trivial  band structure feature desirable properties for atomically-precise technologies, such as robustness against defects, waveguiding, and one-way transport. These topological phonon boundary modes remain to be studied both theoretically and experimentally in synthetic materials, such as polymers and supramolecular assemblies at the atomistic level under thermal fluctuations. Here we show by means of molecular simulations, that surface-confined Su-Schrieffer-Heeger (SSH) phonon analogue models express robust topological phonon boundary modes at heavy boundaries and under thermal fluctuations. The resulting bulk-heavy boundary correspondence enables patterning of boundary modes in polymer chains and weakly-interacting supramolecular lattices. Moreover, we show that upon excitation of a single molecule, propagation along heavy-boundary modes differs from free boundary modes. Our work is an entry to topological vibrations in supramolecular systems, and may find applications in the patterning of phonon circuits and realization of Hall effect phonon analogues at the molecular scale.
Anionic polymer coating for enhanced delivery of Cas9 mRNA and sgRNA nanoplexes
Authors: Chen Siyu , Pinto Carneiro Simone , Merkel Olivia M.
Published: December 2024

A novel PEG-PLE/C14-PEI nanoplex formulation for delivering Cas9 mRNA and sgRNA, targeting KRAS G12S mutations in lung cancer cells demonstrates high gene-editing efficiency and significantly enhanced cancer cell apoptosis and migration inhibition.
Co-catalysis of propane dehydrogenation by Al2O3-supported Ni nanoparticles and VOx
Authors: Li Guomin , Wang Bin , Dai Xingchao , Shi Feng , Ding Yong , Cui Xinjiang
Published: December 2024

The synergistic effect of Ni nanoparticles and VOx on the NiV2Ox/Al2O3 surface enables NiV2Ox/Al2O3 to achieve an excellent propane dehydrogenation (PDH) performance.
Modelling indoor radical chemistry during the HOMEChem campaign
Authors: Østerstrøm Freja F. , Carter Toby J. , Shaw David R. , Abbatt Jonathan P. D. , Abeleira Andrew , Arata Caleb , Bottorff Brandon P. , Cardoso-Saldaña Felipe J. , DeCarlo Peter F. , Farmer Delphine K. , Goldstein Allen H. , Ruiz Lea Hildebrandt , Kahan Tara F. , Mattila James M. , Novoselac Atila , Stevens Philip S. , Reidy Emily , Rosales Colleen Marciel F. , Wang Chen , Zhou Shan , Carslaw Nicola
Published: December 2024

Measurements from the HOMEChem campaign have been constrained and modelled, identifying how cooking and cleaning affect indoor radical reactivities and concentrations.
Quartz sand surface-bound rice root exudates decreased the transport of microplastics in porous media
Authors: Gu Genyao , Wu Dan , Liu Yanan , Wang Junfu , Zhang Yunfei , Min Xiaopeng , Cai Li
Published: December 2024

Quartz sand surface-bound root exudates could decrease the transport of MPs in porous media, due to the lower DLVO energy barrier between MPs and quartz sand covered with root exudates.
Carbon dot based fluorescent “on–off–on” assays for the determination of Au(iii) ions and biothiols
Authors: Guo Zhenzhen , Zhu Jinwen , Huang Yue , Liu Jibin , Miao Peng
Published: December 2024

We have synthesized highly luminescent carbon dots for selective quantification of Au3+via fluorescence quenching. Furthermore, emission could be restored by the introduction of biothiols.
Tough and circular glass fiber composites via a tailored dynamic boronic ester interface
Authors: Karunarathna Menisha S. , Rahman Md Anisur , Yang Guang , Gainaru Catalin , Demchuck Zoriana , Bowland Christopher C. , Meyer Harry M. , Ghezawi Natasha , Saito Tomonori
Published: December 2024

The designed boronic ester-based vitrimer forms dynamic covalent bonds with pristine glass fiber surface, eliminating the need for sizing treatments, mitigating delamination issues, and enabling their circular composites.
Measurement of large ribosomal subunit size in cytoplasm and nucleus of living human cells
Authors: Magiera Aneta , Kucharska Karolina , Kalwarczyk Tomasz , Haniewicz Patrycja , Kwapiszewska Karina , Hołyst Robert
Published: December 2024

The size of large ribosomal subunits was measured directly inside living cervical and breast cancer cells, detecting their free translational and rotational diffusion by fluorescence correlation spectroscopy.
Synthesis of high-performance multifunctional electrode material using sweetwood lignin as a precursor
Authors: Tamasauskaite-Tamasiunaite Loreta , Upskuviene Daina , Balciunaite Aldona , Simkunaitė Dijana , Jasulaitiene Vitalija , Niaura Gediminas , Jablonskiene Jolita , Levinas Ramunas , Plavniece Ance , Volperts Aleksandrs , Dobele Galina , Zhurinsh Aivars , Kruusenberg Ivar , Kaare Kätlin , Colmenares-Rausseo Luis César , Norkus Eugenijus
Published: December 2024

The N-doped lignin-based carbon material has a promising activity and stability for its application as supercapacitor as well as non-noble metal-based catalysts for fuel cells, metal–air batteries.
Computational studies on Mn(iii)-catalyzed cyclopropanols: a case of Mn(iii)-based metalloradical catalysis involving an α-Mn(ii)-bound-alkyl radical key intermediate
Authors: Hong Pan , Zou Xiu-Yuan , Zhang Peng-Cheng , Lu Xin , Ye Long-Wu , Luo Yi-Dong , Sun Qing
Published: December 2024

Substrates that generate metal-bound radical species have predominantly been oxidative in nature. In this study, we present cyclopropanol, a reducing substrate, capable of generating metal-bound radicals through a Mn(acac)3 catalyst.
Controllable rheological properties of UV-responsive calix[4]arene gel for drug encapsulation and release
Authors: Lee Ji Ha , Kanda Wataru , Tachibana Tomoyuki , Kim Minhye , Jung Sung Ho , Kawasaki Riku , Yabuki Akihiro
Published: December 2024

This study investigates the potential of calix[4]arene-based supramolecular gels for use in drug delivery systems, focusing on both their rheological properties and controlled drug release behavior.
Biomimetic CuCoO2 nanosheets reinforced with self-assembling peptide nanofibers for tumor photothermal therapy
Authors: Xu Mingjin , Xu Youyin , Du Chenxi , Gu Guanghui , Wei Gang
Published: December 2024

The conjugation of CuCoO2 bimetallic nanosheets with self-assembling peptide nanofibers leads to enhanced tumor photothermal therapy.
High-temperature oxidation kinetics of nanostructured thermoelectric skutterudite CoSb3 under different environments
Authors: Anusree T. C. , Vargeese Anuj A.
Published: December 2024

Formation of CoSb3 is thermodynamically controlled by SbCl3 as the limiting reactant, and high-temperature oxidation kinetics of CoSb3 reveals sublimation of Sb and rapid conversion of initial oxides into stable oxides in air, compared to nitrogen.
Correction: The green reduction of graphene oxide
Authors: Aunkor M. T. H. , Mahbubul I. M. , Saidur R. , Metselaar H. S. C.
Published: December 2024

Correction for ‘The green reduction of graphene oxide’ by M. T. H. Aunkor et al., RSC Adv., 2016, 6, 27807–27828, https://doi.org/10.1039/C6RA03189G.
Highly efficient and selectivity controllable aerobic oxidation of ethyl lactate to ethyl pyruvate over VxOy/NC catalysts
Authors: Liu Zonghui , Xu Jing , Cui Lei , Liu Na , Yan Bing , Xue Bing
Published: December 2024

This work discovered that the presence of abundant pyridine-type N and low valence vanadium species is conducive to the oxidation of EL to EP.
Hydrogen production and decarbonization with hydrogen absorption-enhanced methanol steam reforming
Authors: Li Xiao , Yang Lingzhi , Guo Ke , Wang Bin , Hao Yong
Published: December 2024

A four-step hydrogen absorption-enhanced methanol steam reforming method is proposed to achieve sustainable hydrogen production, resulting in H2 purity exceeding 99.9% with a recovery rate of 98.92%.
Buckyball C60/Fe–N4 superstructured electrodes for efficient oxygen reduction reaction
Authors: Meng Fancang , Zhang Yinhui , Jiang Bohong , Li Jiahao , Wu Huan , Zhao Jianwei , Kong Huihui , Ji Qingmin
Published: December 2024

Iron-phthalocyanine intercalated C60 electrodes with complete buckyball C60s exhibited superior ORR activity compared to C60-derived electrode with unfolded C60s.
Highly efficient deep-red organic light emitting diodes based on acenaphthopyrazine derivatives via π-bridge with thermally activated delayed fluorescence
Authors: Cheng Zhuang , He Xin , Liu Hui , Ge Shuyuan , Jiang Yixuan , Liu Futong , Lu Ping
Published: December 2024

Two novel TADF emitters are obtained by combining acridine donor and AP acceptor to minimize non-radiative decay. Deep-red OLEDs are achieved with EQE over 14%, offering a promising strategy for efficient deep-red OLEDs.
Atomic and molecular gas as traced by [C II] emission
Authors: Casavecchia Benedetta , Maio Umberto , Péroux Céline , Ciardi Benedetta
Published: December 2024

The latest ALMA and JWST observations provide new information on the birth and evolution of galaxies in the early Universe at the epoch of reionization. Measurements at redshift z > 5 of their cold-gas budget are particularly important because this budget is known to be the main fuel for star formation. A powerful tool for probing the physics characterising galaxies at high redshift is the [C II] 158 μm emission line. Due to its low excitation potential, [C II] emission can be produced in photodissociation regions, neutral atomic gas, and molecular clouds. To properly capture the cold-gas processes taking place in these environments (molecule formation, self-shielding, dust grain catalysis, and photoelectric and cosmic-ray heating), we made use of a new set of dedicated hydrodynamic simulations (COLDSIM) including time-dependent non-equilibrium chemistry, star formation, stellar evolution, metal spreading, and feedback mechanisms. We were able to accurately track the evolution of H I, H II and H2 in a cosmological context and predict the contribution of each gas phase to [C II] luminosity. We provide formulas that can be used to estimate the mass of molecular and atomic gas from [C II] detections. Furthermore, we analysed the evolution of conversion factors with galactic properties, such as stellar metallicity, star formation rate, and stellar mass. We demonstrate that [C II] emission is dominated by H I gas and that most of the [C II] luminosity is generated in warm, dense, star-forming regions. We conclude that although [C II] predominantly traces atomic rather than molecular gas, the [C II] luminosity remains a robust indicator of the H2 mass.
Pour une analyse socio-matérielle du foncier irrigué
Authors: Venot Jean-Philippe , Hertzog-Adamczewski Amandine , Daoudi Ali , Mohammed Seck Sidy
Published: December 2024

Sur la base des contributions au dossier thématique des Cahiers Agricultures intitulé « Le foncier irrigué : enjeux et perspectives pour un développement durable », cet article introductif propose d’aborder l’objet « foncier irrigué » et les enjeux qu’il soulève par le prisme d’une approche socio-matérielle. Cette approche se nourrit de la notion d’assemblage et conçoit le foncier irrigué comme une entité sui generis résultant de relations et pratiques de bricolage « au quotidien » de la part d’acteurs insérés dans des réseaux multi échelles. Le foncier irrigué est envisagé comme une entité à la fois empirique et discursive, émergente et évolutive dans le temps et dans l’espace, qui évolue au gré de multiples recombinaisons entre eau(x), terre(s), cultures, et infrastructures mais aussi d’imaginaires, de discours et d’une économie politique globalisée de l’irrigation. D’un point de vue analytique, l’approche socio-matérielle est une approche relationnelle ancrée dans l’idée qu’il n’y a rien de « naturel » dans ce qui est communément appelé « ressources (naturelles) » : terres et eaux « deviennent » ressources via un jeu complexe de mises en relations et de pratiques. Dans une telle perspective, c’est bien le foncier irrigué, en tant qu’assemblage socio-matériel particulier et évolutif, qui fait ressource sui generis et non au travers des eaux, terres, cultures, et infrastructures qui le composent. C’est sans doute en cela que notre proposition diffère de la littérature existante sur le foncier irrigué qui tend à prendre ces catégories comme points de départs de l’analyse.
The Reactor Monte Carlo code RMC: The state-of-the-art technologies, advancements, applications, and next
Authors: Wang Kan , Liu Zhaoyuan , An Nan , Luo Hao , Jia Conglong , Shen Pengfei , Jiang Shihang , Hu Yingzhe , Gou Yuanhao , Wang Wu , Feng Zhiyuan , Liu Guodong , Zhao Xingyu , Chan Kok Yue , Su Zilin , Tan Zhe Chuan , Liu Guanyang , Li Zeguang , Yu Ganglin , Yu Jiyang , Huang Shanfang
Published: December 2024

Based on academic research and industrial applications over more than 20 years, the Reactor Monte Carlo code (RMC) developed by the REAL (Reactor Engineering Analysis Laboratory) team at Tsinghua University since 2000 has become a powerful, innovative, and versatile simulation platform for nuclear reactor analysis, shielding simulations, criticality safety calculations, fusion neutronics analysis and beyond. Utilizing collaborative and agile development technology, advanced methods and the most cutting-edge algorithms can be tested and implemented in RMC quickly and efficiently. RMC has been deployed on many world-class supercomputers in China and played an irreplaceable role in the design and analysis of commercial nuclear power plants and newly designed types of advanced nuclear reactors. This paper reviews the state-of-the-art technologies developed in RMC in recent years, such as stochastic and continuous-varying media modeling, advanced transient simulation capability, more accurate energy deposition model, etc. Parallel acceleration on heterogeneous architecture supercomputers and machine learning algorithms would be incorporated in ongoing research and future development plans.
Sonographic Diagnosis of Urinary Transport Disorders in Childhood
Authors: Deeg Karl-Heinz
Published: December 2024

Urinary transport disorders are among the most common congenital diseases in childhood. Congenital malformations of the urinary tract can cause bacterial urinary tract infections as early as in infancy and early childhood. Urinary tract infections are among the most common bacterial infections in children, and when pyelonephritis is present, the entire urinary tract should always be examined by sonography.
Advancing Prognostic Prediction in Pediatric Trauma: The Role of
Inflammatory Markers
Authors: Özel Abdulrahman , Yuce Servet , Ilbegi Esra Nur
Published: December 2024

Background This study aimed to evaluate the prognostic value of various
inflammatory markers and indices derived from complete blood counts in
predicting mortality among pediatric trauma patients admitted to the Pediatric
Intensive Care Unit (PICU).

Patients and Methods We designed a single-center retrospective study that
included 165 pediatric trauma patients in the PICU between January 2020 and June
2024.

Results Of 165 patients, 108 (69.2%) were male and the mean age of all
patients was 75.16±57.14 months. The mortality rate was found to be 5.45% (9
patients). The Lactate-to-Albumin Ratio (LAR) and Procalcitonin (PCT)
demonstrated strong prognostic performance with area under the curve (AUCs) of
0.807 and 0.745, respectively. Notably, LAR and PCT correlated well with
mortality and the duration of invasive mechanical ventilation and PICU stay. The
Systemic Immune-Inflammation Index (SIRI), Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio (NLR),
CRP-to-Albumin Ratio (CAR), and Pan-Immune-Inflammation Value (PIV) were less
effective individually but showed potential when combined with other
indices.

Conclusion LAR, PCT, SIRI, NLR, CAR, and PIV were associated with
mortality in pediatric trauma patients, with LAR and PCT demonstrating superior
predictive value. Therefore, LAR and PCT may serve as reliable standalone
markers for identifying critically ill pediatric trauma patients at risk of
mortality.
Assessment of Stress Distribution Around Traditional and Sleeve Fixed Partial Denture Designs: Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Dimashkieh Mohiddin R. , Yousief Salah A. , Demachkia Amir M. , Nassani Mohammad Zakaria , Samran Abdulaziz , Barakat Ali , Singh Yash Pal , Dimashkieh Reda M. , El Sayed Hend Mohamed , Galal Rami M. , Noushad Mohammed , Saini Monika
Published: December 2024

Objectives The aim of this research is to evaluate/compare the use of traditional versus sleeve fixed partial denture (PD) designs made from different materials on supporting structures. The comparison included three- and four-unit PD cases.

Materials and Methods Four finite element models are used in the research. The three-unit PD consists of the mandibular second premolar, first molar (as a pontic), and second molar. The four-unit PD includes the first premolar. The PD materials assessed were zirconia, E-max, and Celtra Duo. Bone has been simplified representing it as two cuboids. Each PD has been loaded to two cases over the pontic's central fossa: 300 N compressive, 150 N obliquely applied with 45 degrees forming 24 cases.

Results The three-unit traditional and sleeve PDs material change showed a slight change in cortical bone stress under vertical loading. Under oblique loading, cortical bone Von Mises stresses were higher by about 12 to 15% more than vertical loading. On the other hand, the four-unit PDs showed minor effect by changing PD material, while using sleeve design PD can reduce the cortical bone stresses up to 20% in comparison to traditional PD design. The mucosa and spongy bone were negligibly affected by changing PD material, and the traditional and sleeve designs showed close values to each other. Superiority of sleeve design appeared by reducing cement layer stresses dramatically, while PD body material rigidity affects its response.

Conclusion Within the limitations of this study, the higher rigid PD material can dissipate loadings over it more preferably regarding its effect on the underlying structures. Sleeve PD design is equivalent to the traditional one for three-unit PDs, while it showed better performance with four-unit PDs. Zirconia three-unit PDs' bodies received the lowest stresses and redistributed and transferred the applied load to the underneath structures better than the other two tested materials. This finding was reversed with four-unit PDs.
Improvement of Dentin Growth Parameters (Beta-catenin, bFGF, CD105, and BMP4) with Propolis as Adjuvant in Dental Caries Treatment
Authors: Rahayu Retno Pudji , Pribadi Nirawati , Widjiastuti Ira , Nugrahani Nur Ariska
Published: December 2024

Objective The purpose of the study was to evaluate the efficacy of calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2) and propolis in pulp capping for dental caries treatment, focusing on dentin growth parameters. The study also aims to determine the role of propolis as a natural adjuvant therapy in enhancing reparative dentin development while emphasizing the importance of proper technique and material preparation with markers for the expression of beta-catenin, bFGF, CD105, and BMP4.

Materials and Methods The left bottom molar teeth from 28 Wistar rats were divided into four groups. The first group, the control group, was given only aqua dest, and the second group received drilling treatment and additional therapies with Ca(OH)2 (Ca(OH)2) 0.625 μg. The third group was given drilling treatment and additional therapies with a combination of propolis with Ca(OH)2 0.781 μg until day 7. Finally, the fourth group received a combination of propolis with Ca(OH)2 0.781 μg until day 14. This research analyzed the expression of essential basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), CD105, beta-catenin, and bone morphogenetic protein 4 (BMP4).

Results This research reports that the average expression of BMP4 and bFGF showed a significant result in treatment with additional therapies with propolis and Ca(OH)2. The experiment indicates that propolis and Ca(OH)2 could induce reparative dentine on days 7 and 14.

Conclusion Propolis as an adjuvant shows better reparative dental formation with improvement in the expression of bFGF and BMP4 in 14 days of therapy.
Comparison of Mechanical and Surface Properties between Conventional and CAD/CAM Provisional Restorations
Authors: Wechkunanukul Napatsorn , Klomjit Kornuma , Kumtun Thawanrat , Jaikumpun Pongsiri , Kengtanyakich Santiphab , Katheng Awutsadaporn
Published: December 2024

Objective This study compared the flexural strength, surface hardness, and surface roughness of conventional, milled, and three-dimensional (3D)-printed provisional restorations.

Materials and Methods Bar-shaped polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) specimens (25 × 2 × 2 mm3) and disc-shaped specimens (9 × 2 mm2) were fabricated using three different techniques (n = 10/group): conventional (SR Ivocron C&B, Ivoclar Vivadent, Schaan, Liechtenstein), milling (Aidite Temp PMMA Blocks, Aidite, Qinhuangdao, China), and 3D printing (Asiga DentaTOOTH, Asiga, Sydney, Australia). Flexural strength was evaluated using a universal testing machine until fracture occurred. Vickers hardness and surface roughness tests were performed on the disc-shaped specimens using a micro-Vickers hardness tester and atomic force microscopy, respectively.

Statistical Analysis Data were statistically analyzed using one-way ANOVA. The post hoc Tukey's honest significant difference was conducted to compare the differences value between groups (p < 0.05).

Results The milled computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) provisional restorative material exhibited a significantly higher flexural strength (125.16 ± 6.83 MPa) compared with both the traditional (109.74 ± 14.14 MPa) and 3D-printed (71.09 ± 9.09 MPa) materials (p < 0.05). The conventional material had a higher Vickers hardness (19.27 ± 0.41 kgf/mm2) compared with the milled (18.53 ± 0.32 kgf/mm2) and 3D-printed (17.80 ± 1.85 kgf/mm2) materials, though the difference was statistically significant only between the conventional and 3D-printed groups. The surface roughness of the milled CAD/CAM material (8.80 ± 2.70 nm) was significantly lower than that of the 3D-printed material (24.27 ± 9.82 nm) (p < 0.05).

Conclusion The provisional restorations fabricated using milled PMMA technology provide adequate flexural strength, surface hardness, and low surface roughness, offering a viable alternative for creating provisional restorations.
Diagnostic Accuracy of Active MMP-8 Point-of-Care Test in Peri-Implantitis
Authors: Fragkioudakis Ioannis , Batas Leonidas , Vouros Ioannis , Sakellari Dimitra
Published: December 2024

Aim This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of the active matrix metalloproteinase-8 (aMMP-8) quantitative chairside point-of-care (PoC) lateral flow immunotest for peri-implant diseases, and it sought to correlate aMMP-8 levels with clinical parameters to determine its effectiveness as a biomarker for peri-implantitis.

Materials and Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Periodontology and Implant Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece. Participants included systemically healthy individuals with at least one implant loaded for more than 1 year, who had not received periodontal treatment or antibiotics in the preceding 6 months. Exclusion criteria included diabetes and immune-compromising conditions. Peri-implant sulcular fluid (PISF) samples were collected from the mesiobuccal or distobuccal site of the implant. The quantitative chairside PoC lateral flow immunotest for peri-implant diseases (ImplantSafe test) and ORALyzer digital reader were used to analyze PISF, with results expressed in ng/mL. Clinical parameters such as bleeding on probing (BOP), probing depth (PD), recession (REC), and clinical attachment level (CAL) were measured at six sites per implant using a 15-mm scale periodontal probe.

Results No significant differences were found in age, gender distribution, or smoking status between the healthy/mucositis and peri-implantitis groups. The peri-implantitis group showed significantly higher mean percentages of BOP (57.58 ± 31.73 vs. 18.79 ± 24.17), PD (4.59 ± 1.22 mm vs. 2.94 ± 0.78 mm), and CAL (5.21 ± 1.72 mm vs. 3.05 ± 0.81 mm). aMMP-8 levels were also significantly higher in the peri-implantitis group (53.39 ± 49.70 vs. 22.03 ± 32.87). The diagnostic test demonstrated a sensitivity of 81.25% and specificity of 74.07%, with an area under the curve of 79.6%, indicating overall good accuracy in distinguishing between positive and negative conditions.

Conclusion The aMMP-8 is a promising biomarker for peri-implantitis, showing elevated levels in affected patients. The aMMP-8 chairside test demonstrates high diagnostic sensitivity and specificity, supporting its use in early detection and monitoring of peri-implant diseases. Further research is needed to establish standardized protocols for its clinical application and to explore its long-term predictive value in implant care.
An Algorithm for the Multimodality Treatment of Cerebral Arteriovenous Malformations
Authors: Orlov Kirill , Berestov Vadim , Strelnikov Nikolay , Moskalev Andrey , Alshevskaya Alina , Krivoshapkin Alexander
Published: December 2024

Introduction: The algorithm of multimodal treatment (MMT) of arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) combined with intent-to-cure and presurgery embolization benefits was developed. The aim was to analyze the effectiveness of the MMT compared with unimodal intent-to-cure embolization in patient groups matched concerning clinical and angiographic characteristics.

Methods: A prospective cohort study of MMT effectiveness and safety was performed. To estimate differences in the total occlusion rate and complication rate of MMT compared to unimodal embolization, a 1:1 matched patient group was identified from the Russian Endovascular Neuro Society (RENS) AVM registry using the propensity score matching (EMB group). The treatment outcomes were assessed by the rate of achieving 100% AVM obliteration on follow-up angiography, morbidity, mortality, and the perioperative complication rate.

Results: Complete AVM occlusion was achieved in 93.7% of patients in the MMT group vs 76.2% of patients in the EMB group (p < 0.001). A favorable clinical outcome (mRS = 0–1 at the end of follow-up) was observed in significantly more patients in the MMT group compared with the EMB group (88.9% vs 71.4%, p = 0.024). In the MMT group, the rates of intraoperative and postoperative ischemic complications were comparable to those in the EMB group, and there was a significantly lower rate of postoperative hemorrhagic complications (6.3% vs 20.6%, p = 0.035).

Conclusions: Embolization as the main curative technique of the multimodal algorithm timely followed by microsurgery and radiosurgery ensures the highest clinical and angiographic efficacy of treatment and reduces the rate of disabling postoperative complications.
The Expression of HIF-1α and VEGF in Radicular Cysts and Periapical Granulomas
Authors: Alsaegh Mohammed Amjed , Shetty Shishir Ram , Mahmoud Okba , Varma Sudhir Rama , Altaie Alaa Muayad , Rawat Surendra Singh
Published: December 2024

Objectives This study aimed to evaluate the expression levels of hypoxia-inducible factor 1-α (HIF-1α) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in radicular cysts and periapical granulomas, thereby contributing to the understanding of their potential significance in the differential diagnosis and treatment of these lesions.

Materials and Methods In the present cross-sectional study, 51 samples of periapical lesions were included. Of them, 24 samples were radicular cysts, and 27 samples were periapical granulomas. Samples were immunohistochemically analyzed for HIF-1α and VEGF proteins expression. Chi-square tests and Spearman's rank correlation coefficient tests were used to detect differences and correlations among the parameters, respectively.

Results In radicular cysts, HIF-1α expression was absent in 1 (4.2%), weak in 5 (20.8%), mild in 7 (29.2%), and strong in 11 (45.8%) cases, while VEGF expression was absent in 1 (4.2%), weak in 6 (25.0%), mild in 9 (37.5%), and strong in 8 (33.3%) of the cases; nevertheless, in periapical granulomas, HIF-1α expression was absent in 8 (29.6%), weak in 6 (22.2%), mild in 9 (33.3%), and strong in 4 (14.8%) of the cases, whereas VEGF expression was absent in 4 (14.8%), weak in 16 (59.3%), mild in 4 (14.8%), and strong in 3 (11.1%) of the cases. Chi-square test revealed a significant difference in the expression of HIF-1α and VEGF between radicular cysts and periapical granuloma (chi-square test = 8.906, p = 0.031; chi-square test = 10.401, p = 0.015, respectively). Spearman's correlation test showed a significant correlation between HIF-1α and VEGF in the total samples of both radicular cysts and periapical granulomas (rho = 0.385, p = 0.005).

Conclusion There is high expression of both HIF-1α and VEGF throughout the odontogenic epithelium and connective tissue of the radicular cyst and periapical granuloma. Both HIF-1α and VEGF are more highly expressed in radicular cysts than in periapical granulomas. These findings may aid in the diagnosis and management of suspected periapical lesions, suggesting that radicular cysts exhibit more advanced hypoxic conditions and associated pathways compared with periapical granulomas.
Brachial Plexus Schwannoma: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Rodrigues Mateus de Sousa , Cavalcante Gabriel Albuquerque Leite , Coelho Camila Maciel Martins , Fonseca Victor de Paula , Carvalho Déborah Emmily de , Guerra Pedro Lucas Negromonte , Araújo Mayle Gomes Ferreira de , Macêdo Lívio Pereira de , Araujo Everton Felipe Do Vale , Souza Fernando Henrique Morais de , Carvalho Eduardo Vieira de , Almeida Nivaldo Sena de , Filho Hildo Rocha Cirne de Azevedo
Published: December 2024

Schwannomas are mostly benign and solitary tumors that originate from Schwann cells. Macroscopically, they appear as rounded masses with a smooth surface. Schwannomas rarely affect the brachial plexus, accounting for approximately 5% of all cases of schwannomas, presenting a challenge for surgeons. The objective of this article is to describe a case report of a brachial plexus schwannoma in a hospital located in the Northeast of Brazil. A 49-year-old male patient presented pain resulting from the appearance of a left anterior cervical bulging with progressive growth. On physical examination, he had a Medical Research Council (MRC) score of 3 in left arm abduction and paresthesia in the left lateral forearm and arm. On magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), the lesion arises from the C4-C5 junction, measuring 5.9 × 5.4 × 5.5 cm, and the electroneuromyography showed chronic pre-ganglionic involvement of C5 to C7 bilaterally. A left cervicotomy was performed with a horizontal incision at the level of the laryngeal eminence. Brachial plexus lesions with progressive growth tend to be managed surgically. This diagnosis hypothesis should be considered in patients presenting progressive neck bulging in inspection during physical examination. This is an easy and cheap method of suspicion that can be used by health professionals.