bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research on the Movement Law of Overlying Strata and the Prevention and Control of Rockburst in the Fully Mechanized Top Coal Caving Face of Extra-Thick Coal Seams
Authors: Rong Hai , He Longyue , Wang Yadi , Wei Xiangzhi , Wei Shilong , Yang Suihan , Li Jincheng , Chen Linlin
Published: December 2024

To investigate the movement law of overlying strata in the fully mechanized top-coal caving face of extra-thick coal seams and further achieve the effective prevention and control of rock burst. Taking the 12240 working face of Gengcun Coal Mine as the engineering background, initially, the calculation formula for the collaborative deformation load of hard rock strata and the formula for the instability scale of hard rock strata are employed to precisely ascertain the position and instability scale of the key strata. Subsequently, a UDEC calculation model is established to comprehensively investigate the instability characteristics of the overlying hard rock strata. Simultaneously, a meticulous analysis of the working resistance of the on-site supports is carried out to validate the theoretical computations. Eventually, in light of the research findings, a rational determination of the cutting scale is made so as to offer a scientific foundation and efficacious guidance for the execution of roof pre-splitting blasting operations. The research results show that within 50 m above the 12240 working face, there is one low-position hard strata and three medium-position hard strata. Under the influence of mining, the displacement field of the overlying hard strata is symmetrically distributed with respect to the central axis of the goaf. The stress rise areas on both sides of the goaf present a “hyperbolic” distribution, and the stress of the goaf roof and floor is released, showing an “elliptical parabolic belt” distribution. The periodic instability occurred about 8 m after the initial instability of the low-level hard rock layer, and the periodic instability occurred about 20 m after the initial instability of the middle hard rock layer 1. The goaf of the 12220 working face in the north of the working face is a crucial reason for the support resistance of the upper part of the 12240 working face being greater than that of the middle part and the middle part being greater than that of the lower part. When the working face advances 20–30 m, a distinct pressure accumulation area emerges in the middle of the working face and is regularly distributed as the working face advances. The monitoring results indicate that microseismic events are concentrated in the basic roof and medium-position strata 1, and energy events of 103 J are prone to occur. The basic roof and medium-position strata 1 are the key points for rock burst prevention of the working face. A roof cutting scale of no more than 10 m for the low-position hard strata can effectively reduce the rock burst risk. The research results provide theoretical support for roof pre-splitting and rock burst prevention of the 12240 working face in Gengcun Coal Mine and can offer guidance for the prediction and prevention and control of rock burst risk in mines and working faces under similar conditions.
Does thoracoscopic repair for esophageal atresia require emergency treatment?
Authors: Wang Chen , Cao Guoqing , Li Kang , Zhang Mengxin , Zhang Xi , Chi Shui-qing , Guo Yu , Li Shuai , Tang Shao-tao
Published: December 2024

Background
Thoracoscopic repair of esophageal atresia (EA) with tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) has been performed with increasing frequency. Although many children have had surgery within three days after birth, the optimal timing for operation remained undetermined. This study aimed to investigate the appropriate timing for EA repair and the mid-term clinical outcomes.
Method
We retrospectively analyzed 142 patients with type III EA/TEF treated between April 2009 and April 2023, a total of 109 patients received thoracoscopic one-stage repair surgery were included. The patients were divided into early age group (group A) and delayed age group (group B) according to the median surgical age of the included patients. Patients in the two groups were matched using propensity score matching (PSM) to eliminate the imbalance between groups caused by confounding factors such as severe complications, gestational age, and birth weight.
Result
The median age at which the patients with type III EA/TEF underwent surgery was 5 days (range: 1.00–16.00 days), and the patients were divided into two groups: < 5 days group and ≥ 5 days group. After matching, 43 patients (out of 59) in early age group (group A) and 43 patients (out of 50) in delayed age group (group B) were included in a validation cohort. All cases (n = 86) successfully completed thoracoscopic one-stage repair surgery. Delayed surgery did not increase the incidence of pre-operative and postoperative respiratory tract infections. Intraoperative complications in the two groups were comparable. Patients in group B exhibited a downward trend in the incidence of anastomotic leakage (6.98 vs. 13.95%, P = 0.481) and anastomotic stenosis (11.63 vs. 20.93%, P = 0.243) during follow-up.
Conclusions
With improvements in neonatal surveillance, appropriately delayed surgery does not increase the incidence of respiratory infections, allowing surgeons the opportunity to optimize treatment plans.
Predicting the Number of Surgical Aortic Valve Replacements in a Tertiary Hospital Over the Next 20 Years Using Portuguese Census Data
Authors: Pereira Rafael Maniés , Guerra Nuno , Gonçalves João , Ferreira Ricardo , Nobre Ângelo , Brito Dulce , Rodrigues Teresa Ferreira , Velho Tiago Rodrigues
Published: December 2024

Objectives The incidence of aortic stenosis (AS) is predicted to rise with the aging population, emerging as a growing public health challenge in developed countries, leading to increased demand for intervention. Our aim is to predict the evolution of proposed cases for SAVR in the geographic referral area of our tertiary hospital up to 2041.Study Design and Methods We used data from the Portuguese Census for 2001, 2011, and 2021 to analyze the resident population within the Cardiothoracic Surgery Department's referral area. Applying population projection methods (rate of geometric growth), we projected demographic trends over 20 years, from 2021 to 2041. Our analysis focused on AS cases who underwent SAVR in our Department between 2001–2011 and 2011–2021.Results Between 2001 and 2021, there was an increase in the overall population, particularly among the elderly (1.4% growth rate in the population ≥ 65yo). The aging index increased, from 128.4(110.5-180.6) in 2001 to 189.1 (155.9-222.5) in 2021 (P-value < 0.001). Similarly, the longevity index significantly increased between 2001 [42.6 (40.8–44.80)] and 2021 [49.30 (47.7–51.8)] (P-value < 0.001). The number of SAVRs performed increased, with a mean increase of 8.11 surgeries/year (R2 = 0.6457, P < 0.001). By 2041, our referral center will increase SAVR by at least 51 surgeries/year in a decreasing growth rate scenario, and 67 surgeries/year in a growth rate stagnation scenario.Conclusion The ongoing trend of population aging will increase the demand for healthcare resources, particularly within the cardiovascular domain. Accurately assessing the volume of SAVR is imperative for reformulating strategies to address the increasing demand effectively.
STOP-CINV STUDY: Safety and Effectiveness of I.V. Akynzeo® (Fosnetupitant 235 mg and Palonosetron 0.25 mg) in the Prevention of Chemotherapy- Induced Nausea and Vomiting in Indian Patients
Authors: Shukla Pragya , Valame Shaunak , Nanda Siddhartha , Shakya Naval Kishore , Verma Arun Kumar , Hanji Abhinandan , Pednekar Amullya C , Bhagat Sagar B , Patil Saiprasad V , Petare Anup U , Bhushan Sumit , Barkate Hanmant B
Published: December 2024

Purpose
IV Akynzeo® (Intravenous fosNEtupitant + PAlonosetron) is the first fixed intravenous combination designed to target key pathways of emesis, allowing for convenient single-dose administration. This study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of IV Akynzeo® in a real-world context in India.
Methods
This open-label, single-arm, multicentre, prospective phase IV trial assessed single dose I.V. Akynzeo® for prevention of CINV in patients receiving highly emetogenic/ moderately emetogenic chemotherapy (HEC/MEC). I.V. Akynzeo® (Fosnetupitant 235 mg and Palonosetron 0.25 mg) was administered over 30 minutes before the start of chemotherapy. The primary endpoints were number of patients with drug related and serious treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) which were assessed for a period of 10 days (± 2 days). The key secondary endpoints were complete response, protection and control in acute (up to 24 hours), delayed (24–120 hours), extended phase (120–240 hours) phase.
Results
In all, 178 patients were enrolled (median: 48.5 years; 64% males) 176 patients completed the study. I.V. Akynzeo® was well-tolerated with 17 (9.55%) patients reporting 23 AEs, 22 (95.65%) were mild and one (4.35%) was fatal. The injection site reaction with I.V. Akynzeo® was low (1.68%). The complete responsee rates with I.V. Akynzeo® 84.27% (95% CI, 78.01, 89.29) for the acute phase, 93.26% (95% CI, 88.52, 96.47) for the delayed phase and 83.15% (95% CI, 76.82, 88.33) for the overall phase.
Conclusion
I.V. Akynzeo® was well tolerated and it exhibited substantial efficacy in mitigating CINV in patients undergoing HEC/MEC across acute, delayed and extended delayed phases.
Capabilities of a 3D Visualization Simulation for Teaching Interns in Clinical Education for Joint Replacement Surgeries
Authors: Yu Qiuping , Guo Jiaojiao , Wang Jing , Zeng Weinan
Published: December 2024

Aims
This study aimed to investigate the feasibility and effectiveness of using 3D visualization simulation technology in teaching interns about joint replacement surgeries.
Methods
Seventy-six clinical medicine students who interned in the orthopedic department of our hospital from September 2023 to January 2024 were selected as the research subjects. They were randomly divided into two groups using a random number table method: 38 students formed the control group (utilizing traditional teaching methods), while the other 38 students made up the experimental group (employing a diversified teaching model combined with 3D visualization technology). The clinical teaching effectiveness of these two groups was compared, focusing on aspects such as classroom participation, interactivity, learning motivation, understanding of surgical procedures, satisfaction with teaching, confidence in independently developing surgical plans, theoretical examination scores, and practical on-site evaluation scores.
Results
The results indicated no statistically significant differences in demographics between the two groups of interns. However, significant difference was showed in classroom participation (7.58 ± 1.15 vs. 8.47 ± 0.86), interactivity (6.92 ± 1.26 vs. 7.61 ± 1.17), learning motivation (7.03 ± 1.37 vs. 7.57 ± 1.00), understanding of surgical procedures (6.03 ± 1.26 vs. 7.63 ± 1.10), satisfaction with teaching (7.42 ± 1.20 vs. 8.13 ± 1.02), confidence in independently developing surgical plans (5.68 ± 1.42 vs. 7.26 ± 1.16), theoretical examination (39.13 ± 4.26 vs. 41.39 ± 4.35) and practical on-site evaluation (32.68 ± 3.85 vs. 38.18 ± 4.93). The teaching evaluation of the experimental group was significantly higher than that of the control group.
Conclusion
Integrating a diversified teaching model with 3D visualization technology in orthopedic education can improve teaching outcomes and student satisfaction.
The essential function of Low Impact Development facilities in mitigating urban flood disasters: Approach for multi-source data fusion simulation
Authors: Zhou Fang , Wang Jiangtao , Lu Zhisen , Xu Qingwei
Published: December 2024

The urbanization process has exacerbated the severity of flood disasters, while Low Impact Development (LID) can play a pivotal role in mitigating such floods. This research aims to simulate urban flooding and evaluate the mitigating effects of LID facilities. By integrating multi-source data, we adopt the Soil Conservation Service (SCS) model to simulate the distribution of flood under various scenarios. To delve deeper into the mitigating effects of LID facilities, we incorporate their absorption and treatment capabilities into the SCS model, resulting in the development of the SCS-L model. Suitability analysis dictates the category of LID facilities to be constructed, and their effects on flood are quantitatively assessed. Findings emphasize that enhancing the effectiveness of LID facilities significantly contributes to preventing shallow inundation. While it also exhibits positive effects on deep inundation, there are inherent constraints. Expanding the deployment area of LID facilities can effectively diminish the inundation area, but the effects increase nonlinearly. Strategically designed layouts for LID facilities can optimize their mitigating impacts on both inundation area and depth. This research underscores the essential role of LID facilities in mitigating urban flood disasters. The conclusion of this paper provides support for the construction of resilient cities.
Palmitoylated importin-β1 transports miRNAs into exosomes via nSMase-dependent pathway
Authors: Zen Ke , Xu Zheng , Wei Yao , Chen Dian-Hua , Qu Shuang , Liu Jiachen , Liang Hongwei , Zhang Chen-Yu
Published: December 2024

Extracellular miRNAs serve as an innovative category of signaling molecules facilitating intercellular communication. Although the participation of AGO2 and other RNA-binding proteins in miRNA exosomal secretion has been recently reported, the mechanism guiding miRNA exosomal sorting remains elusive. Here we unveil the pivotal role of nuclear transport protein IPO-b1 in controlling miRNA exosomal secretion. This regulation occurs through the binding of IPO-b1 to GW182 within GW-bodies, leading to transport of the GW182-bound AGO2/miRNAs complex into exosomes. Notably, we identify a distinctive feature of exosomal IPO-b1, which undergoes palmitoylation at cysteine residue 392 catalyzed by the palmitoyl transferase ZDHHC20 resident in multivesicular bodies (MVBs). Such palmitoylation of IPO-b1 enables it to anchor the AGO2/miRNAs-GW182 complex to the MVB membranes where the complex subsequently internalizes into exosomes through an nSMase-dependent pathway. Our investigation uncovers an unconventional role of IPO-b1 in facilitating the transportation of the AGO2/miRNAs complex into exosomes.
Quantitative Measurement of Iris Melanin Content by Polarization-Sensitive Anterior Segment Optical Coherence Tomograph
Authors: Li Xiaoling , Hu Lingxi , Yang Bing , Xiao Zunjie , Yamanari Masahiro , Higashita Risa , Liu Jiang
Published: December 2024

Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate iris melanin content utilizing polarization-sensitive anterior segment optical coherence tomography (PS-AS-OCT) and explore its correlation with iris color in brown-eye individuals.
Methods: Iris cross-sections were imaged using PS-AS-OCT and the iris substructural layers were automatically segmented by the deep learning network. The iris melanin content of each iris layers was evaluated by melanin concentration rate (MCR) from PS-AS-OCT images. The iris color measurements were extracted in the CIE L*a*b* (CIELAB) color space from the iris surface photographs. Statistical analysis was performed to investigate the relationships between iris MCR parameters and iris L*a*b* values. Additionally,traditional three-category grading was also used for comparisons of parameters among three iris color categories and to examine the accuracy of iris color clustering using iris MCR parameters by the KNN model.
Results: The analysis included 88 participants with a mean age of 39 years (range 18–64 years). We observed a significant negative correlation between melanin concentration rate (MCR) of the whole iris and particularly the iris stroma layers with iris color in L*a*b* values. A higher MCR of the iris stroma was correlated with darker colors, exhibiting lower L* (r=-0.72, P<0.001), a* (r=-0.56, P<0.001), and b* (r=-0.68, P<0.001) values. The MCR of the iris stroma also shows significant differences among the three grades (P<0.001). For the classification of the iris color grading by iris stroma MCR, the accuracy for the KNN model reached 85%.
Conclusions: The MCR of the iris stroma, as measured by PS-AS-OCT, demonstrated a strong correlation with iris color. This suggests the feasibility of assessing iris melanin content using PS-AS-OCT, which may offer an additional avenue for investigating iris pigment.
Social Media for Scientific Research: the Impact of Publicization on citations in Diagnostic Imaging and Radiation Oncology Publications
Authors: Barrero Alessandro Forcina , Converso Giuseppe , Giorgio Sofia Di , Grondelli Maria Chiara , Maizza Bendetta , Tarchi Sofia Maria , Artesani Alessia , Kirienko Margarita , Sollini Martina , Chiti Arturo
Published: December 2024

Purpose: The impact on citation of scientific papers’ dissemination through social media has not been established yet. We aimed at providing a picture of the attention that this field is currently receiving through the most popular social media; and at evaluating the correlation of metrics and scientific citations.
Methods: We selected original papers published between 2015 and 2019 in six reference journals in the field of diagnostic imaging and radiation oncology. For social media attention quantification, we considered the Altmetric Attention Score (AAS) and its indicators, provided by Altmetric. Citation number was retrieved from Scopus. Descriptive analysis was used to extrapolate basic information required for the subsequent regression analysis to foretell the number of citations. We tested three models for determining the relationship between AAS and citations. A p-value below 0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results: We analyzed 4778 papers. AAS failed to predict citation number when considered alone. Time since publication was found to have the largest effect on the number of citations. Facebook was identified as the most influential platform, but it is surpassed by Twitter when summed Twitter accounts and Twitter posts.
Conclusion: AAS and its indicators cannot be considered unique predictors for the number of citations.
The prevalence of pathogenic variants in the BMPR2 gene in patients with idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension in the Russian population: sequencing data and meta-analysis
Authors: Okhrimenko Galina , Borovikova Irina , Dankovtseva Elena , Zamyatin Vladimir , Nikulin Dmitry , Zobova Ekaterina , Lyzhenkova Anna , Danilova Anna , Osipova Natalia , Minushkina Larisa , Zateyshchikov Dmitry , Poptsova Maria
Published: December 2024

Background
Idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension (IPAH) is a rare and severe form of pulmonary hypertension. Genetic predisposition, especially rare variants in the BMPR2 gene, plays a significant role in IPAH development, influencing disease onset and progression. More than 600 unique variants of this gene have been reported in the literature as being associated with IPAH. No systematic studies have been conducted to estimate the frequency of pathogenic variants in BMPR2 in the Russian population. It is recommended to reevaluate IPAH variants every three years in order to incorporate newly available data from the literature. Thus, to compare the prevalence of the discovered pathogenic variants in IPAH patients in the Russian population we need to re-evaluate pathogenicity of the published BMPR2 variants and then to perform meta-analysis based on the reassessed data.
Methods
Whole-genome sequencing was done for a cohort of 74 adult IPAH patients in Russia. Variant identification in BMPR2 gene was done with the standard bioinformatic pipeline. Literature analysis was done by a curated search for BMPR2 variants in PAH patients in public databases. A meta-analysis of the frequency of pathogenic variants was conducted in accordance with the MOOSE (Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies in Epidemiology) guidelines. Reassessment of pathogenicity was performed with InterVar software that incorporate ACMG criteria.
Results
Analysis of the BMPR2 gene from 74 adult IPAH patients in Russia revealed that 6 out of 74 patients (8.11%) carried pathogenic or likely pathogenetic variants. The reassessment of 665 variants found by us in the literature revealed that only 70% of PAH variants in BMPR2 are now classified as pathogenic or likely pathogenic. Meta-analysis based on the reevaluated pathogenic variants showed that even though the frequency of 8.11% of pathogenic or likely pathogenic variants in our cohort is lower than the overall average of 17,75% from the meta-analysis, the difference is not statistically significant (p = 0.052). We also report de novo found deletion in the 6th exon of the BMPR2 gene.
Conclusion
For the first time we present the results of the sequencing study of IPAH patients in the Russian population. Despite the substantial heterogeneity observed in the data, the prevalence of pathogenic mutations in BMPR2 gene in IPAH patients in the Russian population does not significantly differ from the average from the meta-analysis. It is essential to periodically revise the pathogenicity of the published variants since only 70% of PAH variants in BMPR2 were classified as pathogenic or likely pathogenic.
Optical Wigner crystal lattices enabled by Kekulé metasurfaces
Authors: Liu Yanpeng , Liu Jinguo , Luo Yufan , Zhao Airong , Lyu Pin , Liu Ying , Sun Wenhui , Wang Xiaofan , Du Chaoling , Jiang Mingming , Kan Caixia , Cao Shuiyan
Published: December 2024

Wigner crystal (WC) localizes the electrons into a close-packed regular lattice and remains one of the most fragile quantum states since its first prediction in 1934 1. The evidences of electronic Wigner crystals were observed in liquid helium 2,3, carbon nanotube 4, extremely clean GaAs/AlGaAs quantum wells 5–7, two-dimensional electron gases 8, 9 and various moiré superlattice 10–12. However, there is limited demonstration of such concepts for photons (i.e., polaritons). Here we develop, theoretically and experimentally, an optical analogue of Wigner crystal in a new category of metasurface named as Kekulé metasurface. This plasmonic nanostructure crystalizes surface plasmonic polaritons into assorted Wigner crystal lattice at two-dimensional limit, visualized by noninvasive leakage radiation microscopy. The spatial distribution and relative intensity of Wigner crystal lattice site are tailored and melted by superposing an extra wing-shaped nanoslit set. Configurable on-chip light-emitter array and high-security imaging encryption/decryption using optical Wigner crystal lattices are further demonstrated. This work reports a versatile Kekulé metasurface platform and optical Wigner crystal lattices with multiple degrees of freedoms, featuring rich physic phenomena and potential photonic elements for applications into existing technologies.
Combined machine learning models, docking analysis, molecular dynamics and experimental validation for the rapid design of novel FLT3 inhibitors against AML
Authors: Zhao Yihuan , Huang Qiang , Liu Qiang , Shi Zhonghua , Tang Fushan
Published: December 2024

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a malignant clonal disorder driven by the excessive proliferation of immature myeloid cells in the bone marrow and blood, often linked to Fms-like tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3) mutations, which occur in about one-third of AML patients. While FLT3 inhibitors such as Midostaurin, Quizartinib, and Gilteritinib have demonstrated clinical efficacy, their therapeutic potential is often limited by drug resistance and adverse reactions. Therefore, the development of novel FLT3 inhibitors is critical for improving AML treatment outcomes. In this study, we employed a multi-faceted computer-aided drug design (CADD) approach, integrating machine learning (ML), molecular docking, and molecular dynamics simulations, to accelerate the discovery of new FLT3 inhibitors. A machine learning-based FLT3 classification model achieved an accuracy of 0.958, while an MV4-11 cell activity prediction model demonstrated strong predictive performance with an R2 of 0.846, MAE of 0.368, and RMSE of 0.492. Virtual screening of 7,280 compounds from the ChemDiv database led to the identification of 68 potential FLT3 inhibitors, with molecular dynamics simulations confirming their stable binding to the FLT3 protein. Experimental validation of four selected compounds showed promising activity in MV4-11 cellular assays, demonstrating the reliability of this integrated CADD approach. These results underscore the potential of a CADD-driven approach, enhanced by ML, to rapidly design new FLT3 inhibitors for AML treatment.
Patient’s perceived quality of care in South Africa’s public health sector: gratitude for access or ideal care experience
Authors: Mokhele Idah , Cele Refiloe , Nattey Cornelius , Jinga Nelly , Musakwa Nozipho , Kgowedi Sharon , Miot Jacqui , Onoya Dorina
Published: December 2024

Background
South Africa strives to close the quality divide between public and private healthcare services. However, it is unclear whether patients’ demands for access to care matches their desire for quality service. Therefore, we sought to determine if patients’ satisfaction with quality of care received in the public healthcare matches their overall care experience.
Methods
We conducted a mixed-methods cross-sectional survey from February to August 2021, enrolling 40 adult (>18 years) patients/clinics in waiting areas across a proportional sample (10%) of 45 public clinics in the Gauteng province (N=1800). Study participants completed a semi-structured questionnaire. High quality of care was defined as achieving a score>3.5 on a ten-item scale (Cronbach’s alpha= 0.67) measuring agreement with statements about care experiences, including staff communication, attitudes, and clinic amenities. Open-ended questions were analysed thematically and coded as complaints (yes/no).
Results
Overall, 1788/1800 (99.3%) completed the survey, and 70.2% (95% Confidence Interval (CI): 63.6-76.0) of participants reported high quality of service, equivalent between HIV/TB (73.5, 95%CI: 66.0, 79.9) and non-HIV/TB care seekers (67.8%, 95%CI: 61.0, 73.9). Still, 31.7% of participants reporting high service quality had complaints. Overall, 69.6% (62.3%, 76.0) of participants deeming services low-moderate quality reported complaints. Participants’ complaints included long waiting times, clinic appointment system inefficiencies, staff shortages, and poor staff time management. Additionally, participants reported disrespectful treatment from clinic staff and very poor communication. It appears that the improved access to care compensated for sub-standard experiences, as illustrated by statements like:
“I like attending here at this facility as it's closer to my home. Overall experience is good except for long waiting hours and numbering system which is not followed.”
“We all know the health care workers are always under pressure as they work with different kinds of people every day, but they need to be very much respectful to some of us who are seeking help politely”.
Conclusions
Patients’ perception of quality of care is partly driven by gratitude for the widespread access to free care. Still, quality measures must give equal weight to non-clinical experiences of care, such as waiting time and communication, which are essential determinants of improved care-seeking behaviours, particularly among patients in lifelong chronic care.
Engine Back-Up System in Flight Test Campaigns: A New Approach to the Height-Velocity Diagram Demonstration
Authors: taheri setareh , delavet alain
Published: December 2024

The Height-Velocity (H/V) diagram is one of the key stages in the Maximum Take-Off Weight (MTOW) demonstration during the certification of a new helicopter or in the event of an increase in mass of an existing helicopter. The recent development of hybrid propulsion solutions allows for the implementation of an electric engine back-up system (EBS). In case of thermal engine failure, this electric power assistance could change the paradigm. Between July 2021 and May 2022, Airbus Helicopters carried out an extensive flight test campaign on the H130 Flightlab presented in this paper. The EBS installed in the Flightlab provides electrical assistance of about 100kW in case of engine failure. Preliminary studies had shown that it could allow a MTOW increase close to 200kg without an H/V diagram modification on the H130 helicopter type. To avoid flying above the certified MTOW on the Flightlab prototype, Airbus Helicopters used the H130 performance model to convert the 200kg target of mass increase to a H/V diagram area reduction, thus minimizing the applied stress constraint during that campaign. Moreover, battery autonomy and time of charge limited the training of the flight test crew and the gradual approach to these critical points. Airbus Helicopters adapted the thermal engine software to simulate the EBS assistance. The analysis of the flight test results has demonstrated the validity of the mass to the H/V diagram reduction equivalence, successfully mitigating the risk in approach during the flight test procedure. Thanks to this process, Airbus Helicopters is now actively taking into consideration an H130 MTOW extension with a hybrid propulsion system for an upcoming certification, the first of its kind in the helicopter industry.
Combined vaccination of personalized neoantigens and shared MICB α3 antigen enhances the antitumor response by eliciting ILC1s-mediated tumor pyroptosis
Authors: Liu Xiaolong , Cai Zhixiong , Ye Honghao , Chen Geng , Dong Xiuqing , Li Zhenli , Lin Fangzhou , Huang Tingfeng , Qiu Liman , Lin Gengping , Wu Ming , Yu Haijun , Tang Ruijing
Published: December 2024

Immune escape is one of the primary obstacles in neoantigen immunotherapy because tumors can rapidly adapt by reducing MHC-I expression or antigen presentation. Here, we developed a novel immunotherapy strategy that combined vaccination of personalized neoantigens with the shared MICB α3 antigen, by using bacterial outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) as a versatile vector and adjuvant. This approach aims to simultaneously induce a neoantigen-specific cellular immune response and an anti-MICB α3 humoral immune response, enhancing the recognition and killing of tumor cells by immune cells. Our strategy significantly improves the infiltration of neoantigen-specific T cells and NK cells, while also reversing immunosuppression across various preclinical models. Mechanistically, it not only promotes T cell infiltration but also specifically drives the accumulation of non-exhausted type 1 innate lymphoid cells (ILC1s) within tumors. These ILC1s, characterized by high GZMA/GZMB expression, are the primary cell subset responsible for enhancing antitumor immune responses, which can induce Gasdermin D cleavage in tumor cells, initiating tumor pyroptosis for a cascade of the cancer-immunity cycle. Overall, this study demonstrated that combined neoantigens and shared MICB α3 antigen for tumor vaccination enhances immune efficacy by eliciting ILC1s-mediated tumor pyroptosis and support the rationale and clinical translation of cancer immunotherapy.
Expanding the footprint of the Storegga tsunami: New evidence from Arctic sediments
Authors: Devendra Dhanushka , Łącka Magdalena , Szymańska Natalia , Nethupul Hasitha , Pawłowska Joanna , Szymczak-Żyła Małgorzata , Krajewska Magdalena , Zajączkowski Marek
Published: December 2024

Previous sedimentary and model-based investigations of the Storegga tsunami were primarily limited to the regions proximal to its origin. However, the catastrophic event may have had impacts extending to distances much greater than previously recognized, which remain elusive. Here, we investigated the Storegga slide-induced tsunami currents propagation to farther north and the potential disturbance created to the sediment by analyzing a well-dated sediment core section from the northwestern Barents Sea. A thick, reworked sediment layer, characterized by a coarser lower boundary and a fining upward grading trend, dated between 8077±128 and 8647±145 years BP, contained significantly older recycled foraminiferal tests and exhibited pronounced sedimentary changes with strong terrestrial signals. The findings imply that widespread high flow velocities of the tsunami waves might have reached as far north as 74°N, contributing to significant sediment reworking in the northwestern Barents Sea.
Assessment of the Impacts of Metal Recycling on Ground Water Quality in Ikirun, Osun State, Nigeria
Authors: Caleb Taiye David , Fakpor Akpofure Miller
Published: December 2024

The study assessed groundwater around a metal recycling plant in Ikirun, Osun State, Nigeria to determine its environmental impact as it relates to water quality. This was necessitated by the potential threat of metal contamination and associated health implications arising from various recycling activities being carried out in the area. Data from a total of twelve (12) water samples were collected from all available boreholes and wells found within and outside the metal recycling industrial area. The physico-chemical characteristics such as pH, Total Dissolved Solid (TDS) and Electrical Conductivity (EC) were analyzed using a multifunctional digital pH meter while heavy metal content for Zinc (Zn), Lead (Pb), Copper (Cu), Chromium (Cr), and Cadmium (Cd) were analyzed using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. The results indicated a mean pH, TDS and EC values of 5.90084, 122.6108mg/l and 204.6108mg/l respectively within and outside the facility which were below the range of WHO/NSDWQ permissible limit for groundwater. All heavy metals analyzed were below detection except for Zinc (Zn) with mean value of 0.0148mg/l in both sample areas and were below the range of permissible limits. The pH value below the permissible limit range signified that the water is acidic and may pose serious health risks to people who drink the water. The Iron and Steel Recycling Industry might have contributed to the acidic levels of this parameter in addition to the natural content of the soil. Therefore, the activities of metal recycling industries can potentially contaminate groundwater within its vicinity if proper mitigation measures are not put in place.
Emotional Abuse among Indian Adolescents: Effects on Self-Concept, Resilience, and the Role of Cultural and Societal Pressures
Authors: Waseem¹ Afreen , Firdous² Naila , Alam⁴ Shah
Published: December 2024

Background
Emotional abuse, though often overlooked as a form of maltreatment, can have devastating effects on the psychological well-being of adolescents. In the Indian cultural context, where traditional norms and parental authority are highly emphasized, emotional abuse is a prevalent yet under-recognized issue. This study explores the intricate relationship between emotional abuse, self-concept, and resilience in Indian adolescents, shedding light on how cultural factors exacerbate the impact of such abuse.
Objective
The primary aim of this study is to examine the effects of emotional abuse on the self-concept and resilience of Indian adolescents aged 13 to 17. Specifically, the study seeks to understand how different forms of emotional abuse—such as rejection, terrorizing, ignoring, isolation, and corruption—cause degradation based on skin colour, academic performance, and gender roles, and how these factors affect the psychological development of adolescents in India.
Method
This qualitative study employed in-depth, semi-structured interviews with 20 adolescents from the schools of Aligarh Muslim University who have experienced emotional abuse. The interviews were conducted in a private setting, allowing participants to share their experiences candidly. The data were analysed using thematic analysis, with the assistance of NVivo software. Results: Thematic analysis revealed several key themes: the degradation of adolescents based on skin colour, the impact of academic performance pressures, constant comparisons with peers, and the terrorization of girls for defying traditional gender roles. These forms of emotional abuse were found to significantly distort the self-concept of the affected adolescents, leading to feelings of worthlessness, self-doubt, and a diminished sense of self-worth. Additionally, the study found that emotional abuse severely undermines resilience, making it difficult for adolescents to cope with life’s challenges.
Conclusion
The findings of this study underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions aimed at addressing emotional abuse within the Indian cultural context. Raising awareness among parents, educators, and local government about the subtle yet profound effects of emotional abuse is crucial and call for future research to further explore these dynamics within diverse cultural contexts.
Optimizing 3D Voxel Image Synthesis throughHybrid Loss Functions in Conditional GANs
Authors: Mudaliyar R Udendhran , Chindage Varun , Iyer Manasvini Puja
Published: December 2024

Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) have emerged as a powerful tool for 3D voxel image synthesis, particularly through conditional GANs (cGANs). This paper presents a comparative analysis of various loss functions used in training cGANs for 3D voxel image construction, with a focus on hybridizing these loss functions to enhance training stability and improve image quality. By combining adversarial and non-adversarial loss functions, such as Binary Cross-Entropy (BCE), Mean Squared Error (MSE), and L1 loss, we aim to leverage their individual strengths. Empirical evaluation on standard 3D voxel image datasets using performance metrics like Average Absolute Difference (AAD) and Average Voxel Images Occupancy Agreement Ratio (AVAR) reveals that hybrid loss functions produce more precise and structurally coherent 3D voxel images compared to individual loss functions. Our findings demonstrate that fine-tuning the combination and weights of these loss functions can significantly enhance the performance of cGANs for 3D voxel image generation, paving the way for potential applications in medical imaging, virtual reality, and autonomous systemsGitHub link for the implementation of this paper can be found \href{https://github.com/Va-un/Optimizing-3D-Voxel-Image-Synthesis-through-Hybrid-Loss-Functions-in-Conditional-GANs}{here.}
Knowledge and attitude towards traditional male circumcision and the risk of HIV transmission in Indonesia: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Asa Gregorius Abanit , Fauk Nelsensius Klau , Gesesew Hailay Abrha , Ward Paul Russell
Published: December 2024

Background: Traditional male circumcision (TMC) is still practised in Indonesia, under the condition that the newly circumcised males must engage in one or multiple sexual intercourses with unrelated women to heal the circumcision wound, a term known as sifon. This study aims to assess the knowledge and attitude towards TMC and the risk of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) transmission among men irrespective of their circumcision status, in West Timor, Indonesia.
Method: A cross-sectional survey was designed to gather information from 422 men in West Timor, Indonesia. The participants completed the questionnaire assessing the knowledge and attitude towards TMC and HIV. Data were collected from January to April 2024. Data were analysed using bivariate and multiple logistic regression.
Results: The level of knowledge and attitude of respondents regarding TMC and HIV-associated risk factors was 52.8% and 56.4% respectively. Participants who were unemployed were six times [AOR: 6.04, 95% CI (3.28-11.12)] more at risk of HIV than participants who were employed. Participants who were traditionally circumcised were four times more likely [AOR: 4.95, 95% CI (1.37-17.78] to have inadequate knowledge compared to those who were uncircumcised. Participants aged between 18-28 years were six times more likely to show unfavourable attitudes [AOR: 6.62, 95% CI (3.60-12.17)] towards TMC compared to participants aged 40-49 years. Participants with low levels of education were five times [AOR: 5.81, 95% CI (2.16-15.62] more likely to show unfavourable attitudes than participants who graduated from senior high school and university. Participants who were unemployed were five times [AOR: 5.193, 95% CI (2.03-13.23] more likely to show unfavourable attitudes compared to their counterparts.
Conclusion: TMC remains a common practice in West Timor, Indonesia. The findings indicate the need for HIV education and awareness-raising campaigns for communities practising TMC to provide information about the risks of HIV transmission through unsafe traditional circumcision practices, as well as the benefits of safe medical circumcision.
Advancing Chinese Survey Document Retrieval: Multilingual Models and Semantic Understanding for Structured Information Extraction
Authors: Xia Yixin
Published: December 2024

The rapid digitalization of archival documents in China has generated an overwhelming volume of survey documents, requiring efficient retrieval systems for both research and administrative purposes. This study aims to explore innovative approaches for Chinese survey document retrieval by leveraging multilingual pre-trained models, advanced semantic understanding techniques, and structured data extraction. The research will focus on addressing challenges unique to the Chinese language, such as complex character semantics, idiomatic phrases, and hierarchical content structures in survey documents. By integrating natural language processing (NLP), optical character recognition (OCR), and retrieval models, the study seeks to enhance document accessibility, improve search accuracy, and facilitate information retrieval across diverse Chinese survey datasets.
Burmester, Silke (2012). Beruhigt euch! Köln: Kiepenheuer & Witsch. 32 S., 3,99 €
Authors: Merz Redaktion
Published: December 2024

Das Muster ist immer wieder das gleiche: Kaum treibt ein neuer Erreger sein Unwesen, wird von einigen eifrigen Medien der Untergang beschworen. Sollten weder Ehec, H1N1 noch ein anderes Gruselvirus drohen, lässt sich mit der Finanzkrise zumindest der Niedergang des Abendlandes oder mit dem Klimawandel gleich das Ende der Zivilisation einläuten. In ihrem viel zu schmalen Büchlein Beruhigt euch! setzt sich Silke Burmester klug und amüsant mit der ständigen Überhitzung der Medienlandschaft auseinander. Früher war es nur der Boulevard, der die Hysterie schürte; heute sorgen Nachrichtensender und Internet rund um die Uhr dafür, dass man keine ruhige Minute mehr hat.
Die aufmunternde Lektüre der Autorin (Das geheime Tagebuch der Carla Bruni) soll gewissermaßen die Abwehrkräfte der Leserinnen und Leser stärken. Mit liebevoller ironischer Distanz, aber nie boshaft beschreibt Burmester, wie irrwitzig diese Sensationsmechanismen im Grunde sind, gegen die auch die ARD mit ihren in der Regel völlig überflüssigen ‚Brennpunkten‘ nach der Tagesschau nicht gefeit ist.
Einmal in Fahrt, ergänzt die Hamburger Journalistin ihre Erkenntnisse um die bissige Kritik an einer Gesellschaft, in der man zum Scheinwesen mutiert, wenn man kein Facebook-Profil hat, und in der Eltern schon ihre Vorschulkinder auf eine Karriere im Topmanagement vorbereiten.
MENSCHEN & MEDIEN
Authors: Tradinik Ernst
Published: December 2024

Das Konzept der audiovisuellen Medienwerkstatt bietet Menschen mit (Lern-)Behinderung die Möglichkeit, selbstbestimmt und vielschichtig mit Medien zu arbeiten. Im Rahmen verschiedener Filmprojekte konnten sie, neben der kommunikativen und medialen Arbeit, unterschiedliche Kompetenzen austesten und erweitern.
Gormász, Kathi (2015). Walter White & Co. Die neuen Heldenfiguren in amerikanischen Fernsehserien. Konstanz: UVK. 264 S., 39 €.
Authors: Merz Redaktion
Published: December 2024

Gegenwärtige – dem ‚Quality-TV‘ zugeordnete – US-amerikanische TV-Serien verfügen zumeist über einen ambivalenten, ‚schwierigen‘, sich im Verlauf der Narration stark entwickelnden (überwiegend männlichen) Protagonisten, der vom Bild des Sympathieträgers als Erfolgsgarant einer Serie abweicht. Zudem heben sich diese Serien durch die Wahl der Themen, Erzählstil, Tonalität, die angestrebte Realitätsnähe und kontroverse, komplexe Inhalte et cetera von ‚Mainstream‘-Serien ab. Die teilweise synonyme Verwendung der Begriffe ‚Qualitätsserie‘ und ‚Autorenserie‘ macht zudem die Betonung der persönlichen ‚Vision‘ einer einzelnen Autorin bzw. eines einzelnen Autors in Abgrenzung zur Serie als ‚Massenware‘ deutlich. Wenn von sympathischen Charakteren als Identifikationsfiguren und folglich als Grundlage für Rezeptionsvergnügen ausgegangen wird, wie schafft es das beschriebene ‚Quality-TV‘ dann, das Publikum zu binden? Welche Identifikationsangebote bieten die ‚schwierigen‘ Charaktere den Zuschauerinnen und Zuschauern? Eine derartige Figurenkonstruktion als ‚Mut zur Lücke‘, die den Nutzerinnen und Nutzern immer wieder Auslegespielraum für ihre (Be-)Wertungen lässt, aufzufassen, ist dabei ein möglicher Interpretationsansatz von Kathi Gormász.
Als theoretische Grundlage werden kognitiv ausgerichtete Filmtheorien, produktions- und rezeptionsästhetische Perspektiven sowie verschiedene Rezeptionsmodelle, Erzähltheorien, Werkmodelle der Dramentheorie und Drehbuchliteratur herangezogen. Anhand der Beispielserie The Sopranos werden analyseleitende Kategorien entwickelt, mithilfe derer fünf weitere exemplarische ‚Quality-TV‘-Serien bezüglich ihrer Figuren und Zuschauerinnen- bzw. Zuschauer-Beziehung analysiert werden. Die Dissertation eignet sich für Medienwissenschaftlerinnen und -wissenschaftler mit entsprechendem Interessensschwerpunkt sowie konzeptionell und praktisch im Bereich des Fernsehens Tätige.
Köver, Chris/Burger, Daniela/Eismann Sonja. Hack‘s selbst! Digitales do it yourself für Mädchen. Weinheim: Beltz & Gelberg. 140 S., 16,95 €.
Authors: Merz Redaktion
Published: December 2024

Hacking wird gemeinhin als etwas Böses angesehen und mit Viren, Spam-Mails sowie dem Ausspionieren von Behörden und Unternehmen in Verbindung gebracht. Ursprünglich bedeutet Hacking aber ‚eingreifen‘ und ‚verbessern‘. So dreht sich Hack’s selbst um alles, was Mädchen und junge Frauen mit Technik und Computern selbermachen können – inklusive Bastelanleitungen. Zu Beginn wird in die Welt digitaler Spiele eingeführt und erläutert, wie man einen Game- Controller aus Obst bauen oder eigene Spielideen entwickeln kann. Auch im Kapitel Hacken und Verbessern werden Mädchen und jungen Frauen angeregt, selbst aktiv zu werden: Sie lernen, eine funkgesteuerte Katzenklappe zu entwickeln oder ihre Handschuhe touchtauglich zu machen. Des Weiteren geht es darum, wie man Wissen teilen und dazu beispielsweise ein Video drehen, bei Wikipedia mitwirken oder einen Blog führen kann. Auch werden die Themen des Engagierens und Vernetzens angesprochen. Es wird erklärt, wie Online-Petitionen gestartet und eigene Spuren im Netz verwischt werden können.
Auch die Welt des Programmierens verliert durch das Buch ihren Schrecken, indem erklärt wird, wie man mit HTML und CSS einen Blog programmieren kann. Neben all den praktischen Anleitungen werden in Hack‘s selbst auch Themen wie Datenschutz und Internetsicherheit behandelt – vom Verschlüsseln von E-Mails über die Selbstpräsentation im Netz bis hin zum Erstellen starker Passwörter. Vorrangige Zielgruppe der praxisorientierten Publikation sind Mädchen und junge Frauen. Auch optisch ist es auf diese zugeschnitten: Eine ungewöhnliche, verpixelte Schrift und bunte Farben dominieren das Layout. Die Anleitungen für die Erstellung eigener Medienprodukte und Projekte sind anschaulich erklärt und werden mit Bildern und Beispielen untermalt. Die Publikation kann daher auch pädagogischen Fachkräften empfohlen werden, die Anregungen für ihre praktische Medienarbeit mit Mädchen und jungen Frauen suchen.