bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An analytical investigation into the lateral load response of curved RC shear walls
Authors: Abdoos Hatef , Khaloo Alireza , Tabiee Mohammad
Published: March 2024

Curved structural elements can extensively be employed in engineering applications, to which structural designers and architects can resort in order to cope with the existing structural limitations and architectural challenges. In this regard, the current study is an attempt to provide insight into the overall performance of curved reinforced concrete (RC) shear walls (CRCSWs) due to the gaps existing in the literature. In order to fulfill this purpose, a CRCSW with general cross‐section has been considered subjected to the applied bi‐lateral and axial loadings. Equivalent non‐rectangular T‐, U‐, and L‐shaped sections are then introduced in lieu of a curved section. Thereafter, the stress and displacement distributions of CRCSWs have been analytically established. In order to highlight the structural merits of CRCSWs, a comparative study is performed based on the six non‐dimensional parameters defined in this study. According to the comparative study conducted between the CRCSWs and the equivalent non‐rectangular flanged walls, unlike latter wall types, the shear‐lag effects do not make serious issues for the performance of CRCSWs. Furthermore, to make a more realistic judgment on the response of CRCSWs, a numerical investigation has been carried out utilizing the finite element (FE) software Abaqus. On the strength of the data obtained from the FE simulation of 90 CRCSWs in three categories of short, squat, and slender walls, a regression model has been established, which is advantageous in that it can supply a means for the initial estimation of the shear strength of CRCSWs. The average R‐factor of 0.88 indicates that the established formulations can potentially well predict the shear strength of CRCSWs. The findings of this study divulge that, in addition to the inherent aesthetical advantages of CRCSWs, these structural elements can effectively resist against bi‐directional loadings as compared with the equivalent RC walls with flanged sections.
Book Creation to Support English Language Learning
Authors: Torrejon Capurro Carolina , Moses Lindsey , Garces Paula
Published: March 2024

As part of a large study aiming to understand how kindergarten children in Colombia used translanguaging during independent play, Paula (the teacher) along with Dr. Moses (lead researcher) co‐designed a 6‐week play‐based intervention that included a variety of learning experiences such as partner reading, small‐group reading, and supported play, among others. In this guide, we describe the step‐by‐step process followed to design the children's book the students used during instruction to learn the desired language, vocabulary, and interactions. Additionally, we provide suggestions on how to create a book that fits your teaching goals.
Evaluation of clinical profiles, surgical experience and outcomes of ileosigmoid knotting in low‐resource setup: A retrospective cohort study at Jimma University Medical Center
Authors: Bayleyegn Nebiyou Simegnew , Zelelew Abebe Nega , Sisay Assefa Legesse
Published: March 2024

Background

Bowel obstruction is a mechanical or functional blockade of intestinal contents from evacuation to the adjacent distal bowel or external environment. It poses significant morbidity and mortality in both high‐income and low‐to‐middle‐income countries. Ileosigmoid knotting is a special form of obstruction where the small bowel often ileum wraps around the sigmoid colon or vice versa. It is the severest form of bowel obstruction, involving both the small and large bowels in a compound manner. It is common where sigmoid volvulus is common and geographic areas with a bulky diet.

Methods

An institution‐based retrospective cohort study was employed among purposively selected 40 surgical patients with ileosigmoid knotting records from July 2020 to July 2023 at Jimma University Medical Center. To estimate and compare the survival probabilities, the Kaplan‐Meir method and log‐rank test were used. A Cox‐regression analysis was fitted to identify independent predictors of time to death.

Results

Among a cohort of 40 patients followed for 347 person‐days at Jimma University Medical Center, 11 (27.5%) had died. The overall incidence rate of death was 3.2 (95% CI 1.8, 5.7) per 100 person‐days. In multivariable Cox‐regression analysis, age (AHR = 1.15; 95% CI: 1.04–1.28), shock at presentation (AHR = 30.50: 95% CI 1.25–742.54), comorbidities (AHR = 5.81; 95% CI 1.19–28.23), pulse rate intraoperatively (AHR = 1.19; 95% CI: 1.01–1.40), postoperative pulse rate (AHR = 1.07; 95% CI: 1.01–1.14) were independently associated with time to death.

Conclusion

The incidence of death among surgical patients with ileosigmoid knotting was high and also had a shorter median survival time. Age, shock at presentation, comorbidities, pulse rate intraoperatively, and postoperative pulse rate were found to be statistically significant predictors of time to death and outcome among surgical patients with Ileosigmoid knotting.
A low‐cost, DIY tourniquet simulator with built‐in self‐assessment for prehospital providers in Guatemala city
Authors: Jhunjhunwala Rashi , Monzon Jose , Faria Isabella , Escalona Gabriel , Zinco Analia , Ottolino Pablo , Reyna Favio , Raykar Nakul , Asturias Sabrina
Published: March 2024

Background

Hemorrhage is the leading cause of preventable death after trauma. In high‐income countries first responders are trained in hemorrhage control techniques but this is not the case for developing countries like Guatemala. We present a low‐cost training model for tourniquet application using a combination of virtual and physical components.

Methods

The training program includes a mobile application with didactic materials, videos and a gamified virtual reality environment for learning. Additionally, a physical training model of a bleeding lower extremity is developed allowing learners to practice tourniquet application using inexpensive and accessible materials. Validation of the simulator occurred through content and construct validation. Content validation involved subjective assessments by novices and experts, construct validation compared pre‐training novices with experts. Training validation compared pre and post training novices for improvement.

Results

Our findings indicate that users found the simulator useful, realistic, and satisfactory. We found significant differences in tourniquet application skills between pre‐training novices and experts. When comparing pre‐ and post‐training novices, we found a significantly lower bleeding control time between the groups.

Conclusion

This study suggests that this training approach can enhance access to life‐saving skills for prehospital personnel. The inclusion of self‐assessment components enables self‐regulated learning and reduces the need for continuous instructor presence. Future improvements involve refining the tourniquet model, validating it with first‐responder end users, and expanding the training program to include other skills.
Introduction
Authors: Lekkerkerker Henk N. W. , Tuinier Remco , Vis Mark
Published: March 2024

According to IUPAC [1], the term colloidal refers to ‘a state of subdivision
Depletion Interaction
Authors: Lekkerkerker Henk N. W. , Tuinier Remco , Vis Mark
Published: March 2024

In this chapter, we consider the depletion interaction between two flat plates and between two spherical colloidal particles for different depletants (polymers, small colloidal spheres, rods and plates).
Diagnostic value of dual-source, dual-energy computed tomography combined with the neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio for discriminating gastric signet ring cell from mixed signet ring cell and non-signet ring cell carcinomas
Authors: Song Qinxia , Wang Xiangfa , Zhu Juan , Shi Hengfeng
Published: March 2024

Purpose

To explore the diagnostic value of dual-source computed tomography (DSCT) and neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) for differentiating gastric signet ring cell carcinoma (SRC) from mixed SRC (mSRC) and non-SRC (nSRC).

Methods

This retrospective study included patients with gastric adenocarcinoma who underwent DSCT between August 2019 and June 2021 at our Hospital. The iodine concentration in the venous phase (ICvp), standardized iodine concentration (NICVP), and the slope of the energy spectrum curve (kVP) were extracted from DSCT data. NLR was determined from laboratory results. DSCT (including ICVP, NICVP, and kVP) and combination (including DSCT model and NLR) models were established based on the multinomial logistic regression analysis. The receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve and area under the curve (AUC) were used to evaluate the diagnostic value.

Results

A total of 155 patients (SRC [n = 45, aged 61.22 ± 11.4 years], mSRC [n = 60, aged 61.09 ± 12.7 years], and nSRC [n = 50, aged 67.66 ± 8.76 years]) were included. There were significant differences in NLR, ICVP, NICVP, and kVP among the SRC, mSRC, and nSRC groups (all P < 0.001). The AUC of the combination model for SRC vs. mSRC + nSRC was 0.964 (95% CI: 0.923-1.000), with a sensitivity of 98.3% and a specificity of 86.7%, higher than with DSCT (AUC: 0.959, 95% CI: 0.919–0.998, sensitivity: 90.0%, specificity: 89.9%) or NLR (AUC: 0.670, 95% CI: 0.577–0.768, sensitivity: 62.2%, specificity: 61.8%).

Conclusion

DSCT combined with NLR showed high diagnostic efficacy in differentiating SRC from mSRC and nSRC.
Global longitudinal strain in long-term risk prediction after acute coronary syndrome: an investigation of added prognostic value to ejection fraction
Authors: Lenell Joel , Lindahl Bertil , Erlinge David , Jernberg Tomas , Spaak Jonas , Baron Tomasz
Published: March 2024

Aims

This study aimed to investigate the additional value of global longitudinal strain (GLS) on top of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) in long-term risk prediction of combined death and heart failure (HF) re-hospitalization after acute coronary syndrome (ACS).

Method and results

This retrospective study included patients admitted with ACS between 2008 and 2014 from the three participating university hospitals. LVEF and GLS were assessed at a core lab from images acquired during the index hospital stay. Their prognostic value was studied with the Cox proportional hazards model (median follow-up 6.2 years). A nested model comparison was performed with C-statistics.

A total of 941 patients qualified for multivariable analysis after multiple imputation of missing baseline covariables. The combined outcome was reached in 17.7% of the cases. Both GLS and LVEF were independent predictors of the combined outcome, hazard ratio (HR) 1.068 (95% CI 1.017–1.121) and HR 0.980 (95% CI 0.962–0.998), respectively. The C-statistic increased from 0.742 (95% CI 0.702–0.783) to 0.749 (95% CI 0.709–0.789) (P = 0.693) when GLS entered the model with clinical data and LVEF.

Conclusion

GLS emerged as an independent long-term risk predictor of all-cause death and HF re-hospitalization. However, there was no significant incremental predictive value of GLS when LVEF was already known.

Graphical Abstract
White matter associations with spelling performance
Authors: Sagi Romi , Taylor J. S. H. , Neophytou Kyriaki , Cohen Tamar , Rapp Brenda , Rastle Kathleen , Ben-Shachar Michal
Published: March 2024

Multiple neurocognitive processes are involved in the highly complex task of producing written words. Yet, little is known about the neural pathways that support spelling in healthy adults. We assessed the associations between performance on a difficult spelling-to-dictation task and microstructural properties of language-related white matter pathways, in a sample of 73 native English-speaking neurotypical adults. Participants completed a diffusion magnetic resonance imaging scan and a cognitive assessment battery. Using constrained spherical deconvolution modeling and probabilistic tractography, we reconstructed dorsal and ventral white matter tracts of interest, bilaterally, in individual participants. Spelling associations were found in both dorsal and ventral stream pathways. In high-performing spellers, spelling scores significantly correlated with fractional anisotropy (FA) within the left inferior longitudinal fasciculus, a ventral stream pathway. In low-performing spellers, spelling scores significantly correlated with FA within the third branch of the right superior longitudinal fasciculus, a dorsal pathway. An automated analysis of spelling errors revealed that high- and low- performing spellers also differed in their error patterns, diverging primarily in terms of the orthographic distance between their errors and the correct spelling, compared to the phonological plausibility of their spelling responses. The results demonstrate the complexity of the neurocognitive architecture of spelling. The distinct white matter associations and error patterns detected in low- and high- performing spellers suggest that they rely on different cognitive processes, such that high-performing spellers rely more on lexical-orthographic representations, while low-performing spellers rely more on phoneme-to-grapheme conversion.
A study of membrane correction accounting for both curvature and tension in DEM simulations of triaxial tests of sand and ballast with two alternative flexible membrane models
Authors: Tolomeo Mathias , McDowell Glenn R.
Published: March 2024

In DEM simulations of triaxial tests, modelling a flexible lateral membrane is crucial and challenging. It is essential for the correct application of a uniform lateral pressure and for an accurate measurement of sample volume. Here, we introduce a membrane made of triangular facets, and model it as a continuum; we then compare this approach with a well-established method that uses a layer of bonded spheres. With either method, it is also possible to assess the additional stress applied by the membrane as it deforms, i.e. the difference between the stress applied at the boundary and the actual stress within the sample. It is shown that this difference has two origins: the tension developed in the membrane, as it deforms; and the curvature of the membrane, since this causes a vertical component of the confining pressure which can be significant. These findings may be used to inform and improve the membrane correction commonly used in experiments, where similar effects occur.

Graphic abstract
Transforming the food system in ‘unprotected space’: the case of diverse grain networks in England
Authors: Walton Stephanie
Published: March 2024

Transitioning to food systems that are equitable, resilient, healthy and environmentally sustainable will require the cultivation and diffusion of transformational sociotechnical innovations—and grassroots movements are an essential source of such innovations. Within the literature on strategic niche management, government-provided ‘protected spaces’ where niche innovations can develop without facing the pressures of the market is an essential part of sustainability transitions. However, because of their desire to transform rather than transition food systems, grassroots movements often struggle to acquire such protected spaces and so must determine how and where to generate change whilst being marginalised and exposed to unprotected spaces. The aim of this research is to gain a precise view of the multiple touchpoints of marginalisation that exist across the grassroots-government interface and to apply a new framework for conceptual analysis of these touchpoints that can help to identify where and how grassroots movements might be able to push against this marginalisation. The study finds that, by applying a ‘who, what, where’ framework of analysis to policies across this interface, it is possible to find pathways forward for achieving small wins towards food systems transformation.
Relationships between ground motion parameters and energy demands for regular low-rise RC frame buildings
Authors: Meral Emrah
Published: March 2024

The present study aims to analyze the correlation between ground motion parameters and energy demands of low-rise RC buildings without shear walls. Two regular 4- and 7-story residential buildings were seismically designed to represent low-rise RC buildings. In order to establish the requirements of single degree of freedom (SDOF) systems as well as multi degree of freedom (MDOF) systems, the dynamic features of “equivalent” SDOF systems were defined by using MDOF systems. The correlation of 20 ground motion parameters (GMPs) of 44 records with the energy demands obtained from a total of 176 nonlinear time history analyses was examined for the SDOF and MDOF systems within the scope of this study. The ground motion parameters (GMPs) were taken as intensity measures (IMs). In contrast, maximum input energy was used as a demand measure (DM) and these energy values were normalized with the masses of the buildings for cases, where the buildings were evaluated together. Parameters related to acceleration and velocity are generally found to yield better results in comparison to the ones related to frequency and displacement. Velocity Spectrum Intensity (VSI) and Arias Intensity (Ia) were obtained to have the highest correlation values as a single parameter. This study suggested new equations by combining multiple ground motion parameters for SDOF and MDOF systems to better reflect damage potential than a single parameter. The use of multiple parameters in combination results in better correlation coefficients.
Surveys that prioritize site number over time per site will result in better gastropod status assessments: a case study on the rediscovery of Big Black Rocksnail
Authors: Rezac Calvin R. , Ellwanger Robert J. , Donohoo Samantha A. , Hartfield Paul D. , Ruppel Ashley S. , Ruppel David S. , Wagner Matthew D. , Whelan Nathan V.
Published: March 2024

Freshwater gastropods are among the most imperiled organisms on Earth. Yet, they are among the most understudied freshwater taxa. Numerous freshwater gastropod species have gone extinct in the last 100 years, but recent rediscoveries indicate that some species were prematurely declared extinct. Such premature extinction declarations remove legal protections, which could facilitate actual extinction. Thus, research and policy recommendations are needed so surveys provide the best information possible for conservation. Here, we examined the case of Lithasia hubrichti, a freshwater gastropod endemic to the Big Black River in Mississippi that was last seen in 1965. In 2022, a freshwater mollusk survey resulted in finding L. hubrichti alive. An additional survey effort in 2023 that prioritized sampling as many sites as possible in a single day clarified the current range of L. hubrichti. Genomic analyses indicated that the species has persisted with a large population size for thousands of years, rather than ever falling below a survey detection limit. When considering the case of L. hubrichti and other recent freshwater gastropod rediscoveries, we conclude that freshwater gastropod surveys should emphasize sampling as many sites as possible under favorable sampling conditions when targeting rare species, rather than expending high sampling effort at a small number of sites or when stream conditions may impact ability to detect target species. We also advocate for policies that encourage partnerships with landowners, which was required to rediscover L. hubrichti.
Comparison of long-term oncologic outcomes of central lumpectomy and conventional breast-conserving surgery for invasive breast cancer: propensity score matching analysis
Authors: Jung Ji-Jung , Cheun Jong-Ho , Kim Hong-Kyu , Lee Han-Byoel , Moon Hyeong-Gon , Hwang Ki-Tae , Han Wonshik
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Central lumpectomy (CL) is a breast-conserving surgical (BCS) technique that involves excision of the nipple-areolar complex with breast tumor in centrally located breast cancers. We aimed to investigate the long-term clinical outcomes of CL in comparison with conventional BCS (cBCS).

Methods

Patient records who underwent BCS with clear resection margins for invasive breast cancer between 2004 and 2018 were retrospectively reviewed. Of the total 6,533 patients, 106 (1.6%) underwent CL. Median follow-up duration was 73.4 months. 1:3 propensity score matching (PSM) and inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) were used to minimize selection bias.

Results

The CL group showed a significantly higher ipsilateral breast tumor recurrence (IBTR) rate than the cBCS group (10-year IBTR rate: 5.8% vs. 3.1%, p = 0.004), even after adjusting for other variables (hazard ratio (HR), 2.65; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.07–6.60, p = 0.048). However, there were no significant differences observed in regional recurrence, distant metastasis, or overall survival rates between the two groups. Both PSM and IPTW analyses showed significantly higher IBTR in the CL group (PSM HR, 3.27; 95% CI, 0.94–11.36; p = 0.048 and IPTW HR, 4.66; 95%CI, 1.85–11.77; p < 0.001). Lastly, when analyzing 2,213 patients whose tumors were located within 3 cm of the nipple, the CL group showed a significantly higher IBTR than the cBCS group before and after PSM.

Conclusion

CL was associated with a higher rate of IBTR compared to cBCS, while other survival outcomes were comparable. For centrally located tumors, CL may be considered for patients preferring breast preservation. However, higher risk for IBTR should be informed and careful surveillance may be necessary during the early post-operative follow-up periods.
Flax biorefining for paper production
Authors: Cabañas-Romero L. Verónica , Cusola Oriol , Buruaga-Ramiro Carolina , Valls Cristina , Roncero M. Blanca , Valenzuela Susana V.
Published: March 2024

In this work, we assessed the potential of Cel6D, a recently reported exocellulase from Paenibacillus barcinonensis, as a biorefining agent for flax pulp. Pulp fibers were treated with this enzyme, Cel9B (an endocellulase previously shown to possess biorefining action) and the two in combination. Samples of biorefined flax pulp were mechanically refined to obtain handsheets. All three biorefining treatments decreased air permeance in the handsheets. Cel9B increased tensile index and folding endurance, and the Cel6D − Cel9B combination increased tensile index and burst index but also resulted in markedly decreased tear index and folding endurance. On the other hand, Cel6D increased tensile index and burst index; also, more importantly, it increased tear resistance, albeit slightly, relative to the other two treatments. The results of this work can be useful to understand the differential effects of exocellulases and endocellulases as biorefining tools and open up new avenues for exploring their use in other biotechnological applications.
Quantum software engineering and quantum software development lifecycle: a survey
Authors: Dwivedi Kanishk , Haghparast Majid , Mikkonen Tommi
Published: March 2024

Quantum software engineering is advancing in the domain of quantum computing research and application, yet the documentation is scattered. The slow transition from Von-Neumann based computation systems to quantum systems, and conserving the fundamental computing principles in software development and software engineering helps in enrichment of quantum software development. The evolution of quantum computing over the past years shows a shift in the domain of classical computation to quantum computation in the years to come. Future applications such as, quantum AI and quantum machine learning will benefit from quantum software engineering. This survey collects and explores the various documentations in the domain of quantum systems and quantum software engineering. The survey provides an in-depth exploration of quantum programming languages, which is combined with explanations of quantum computing’s fundamentals. The review also goes in-depth about quantum software engineering and quantum software life cycle development, outlining the quantum software reuse methodology that is introduced in the quantum software lifecycle development domain.
A Crash Course in Differential Games and Applications
Authors: de Zeeuw Aart
Published: March 2024

The methodology of differential games is a combination of optimal control theory and game theory. It is the natural framework for economic analysis with strategic interaction and dynamical optimization. The theory gained traction by seminal papers in the early seventies, and it gradually found its way into economics. The purpose of this paper is to make theory and applications of differential games easily accessible by explaining the basics and by developing some characteristic applications. The core of the theory focuses on the open-loop and the multiple Markov-perfect Nash equilibria that use the maximum principle and dynamic programming as the techniques to solve the optimal control problems. The applications are the game of international pollution control and the game of managing a lake, which is an example of an ecological system with tipping points. Finally, it is interesting to note that the discovery of time-inconsistency in the open-loop Stackelberg equilibrium had a huge impact on macroeconomics, since policy making under rational expectations is a Stackelberg differential game.
Draft genome and SSR data mining of a Peruvian landrace of Capsicum chinense, the arnaucho chili pepper
Authors: Estrada Richard , Tantalean Jose F. C. , Saldaña Carla L. , Romero Yolanda , Vilcara Edgardo , Arbizu Carlos I.
Published: March 2024

The Arnaucho chili pepper (ACP) is a traditional vegetable used in Peru because of its gastronomic properties. Due to its importance in the Peruvian diet and economy, this species is a resource that can be a candidate to plant breeding programs. In this study, the complete genome nucleotide sequence of this chili pepper was generated using the Illumina Hiseq 2500 sequencing technology. We sequenced the whole genome of the ACP using a paired-end 150 strategy, obtaining 330.46 GB of sequencing data. The genome size of the ACP was 2.98 Gb with a contig N50 of 237 Mb and 95.39% complete BUSCOs. Also, we identified 71.96% of repetitive DNA of the genome assembly, of which retroelements occupy 37.95% of the total genome. We downloaded genomes of the Solanoideae subfamily and conducted a comparative analysis of simple sequence repeats (SSRs) with our draft genome, and we identified lower number of SSRs in the ACP genome compared to other pepper species. This first ACP genome is expected to contribute to a better understanding of its genetics to adapt to the arid conditions of the Peruvian coastal ecosystem and evolution.
Pathophysiology, diagnosis, and herbal medicine-based therapeutic implication of rheumatoid arthritis: an overview
Authors: Kaur Charanjit , Mishra Yachana , Kumar Rajesh , Singh Gurvinder , Singh Sukhraj , Mishra Vijay , Tambuwala Murtaza M.
Published: March 2024

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) stands as an autoimmune disorder characterized by chronic joint inflammation, resulting in profound physiological alterations within the body. Affecting approximately 0.4–1.3% of the global population, this condition poses significant challenges as current therapeutic approaches primarily offer symptomatic relief, with the prospect of complete recovery remaining elusive. This review delves into the contemporary advancements in understanding the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and the therapeutic potential of herbal medicine in managing RA. Notably, early diagnosis during the initial stages emerges as the pivotal determinant for successful recovery post-treatment. Utilizing tools such as Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), anti-citrullinated peptide antibody markers, and radiography proves crucial in pinpointing the diagnosis of RA with precision. Unveiling the intricate pathophysiological mechanisms of RA has paved the way for innovative therapeutic interventions, incorporating plant extracts and isolated phytoconstituents. In the realm of pharmacological therapy for RA, specific disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs have showcased commendable efficacy. However, this conventional approach is not without its drawbacks, as it is often associated with various side effects. The integration of methodological strategies, encompassing both pharmacological and plant-based herbal therapies, presents a promising avenue for achieving substantive recovery. This integrated approach not only addresses the symptoms but also strives to tackle the underlying causes of RA, fostering a more comprehensive and sustainable path towards healing.

Graphic abstract
Preparation of xyloglucan-grafted poly(N-hydroxyethyl acrylamide) copolymer by free-radical polymerization for in vitro evaluation of human dermal fibroblasts
Authors: González-Torres Maykel , Martínez-Mata Ricardo , Ruvalcaba-Paredes Erika Karina , del Real Alicia , Leyva-Gómez Gerardo , Maciel-Cerda Alfredo
Published: March 2024

Xyloglucan is a rigid polysaccharide that belongs to the carbohydrate family. This hemicellulose compound has been widely used in biomedical research because of its pseudoplastic, mucoadhesive, mucomimetic, and biocompatibility properties. Xyloglucan is a polyose with no amino groups in its structure, which also limits its range of applications. It is still unknown whether grafting hydrophilic monomers onto xyloglucan can produce derivatives that overcome these shortcomings. This work aimed to prepare the first copolymers in which N-hydroxyethyl acrylamide is grafted onto tamarind xyloglucan by free-radical polymerization. The biocompatibility of these structures in vitro was evaluated using human dermal fibroblasts. Gamma radiation-induced graft polymerization was employed as an initiator by varying the radiation dose from 5–25 kGy. The structure of the graft copolymer, Xy-g-poly(N-hydroxyethyl acrylamide), was verified by thermal analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. The findings indicate that the degree of grafting and the cytotoxicity/viability of the xyloglucan-based copolymer were independent of dose. Notably, the grafted galactoxyloglucan exhibited efficient support for human dermal fibroblasts, showing heightened proliferative capacity and superior migration capabilities compared to the unmodified polymer. This copolymer might have the potential to be used in skin tissue engineering.
A novel, microfluidic high-throughput single-cell encapsulation of human bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells
Authors: Rashidi Narjes , Slater Alex , Peregrino Giordana , Santin Matteo
Published: March 2024

The efficacy of stem-cell therapy depends on the ability of the transplanted cells to escape early immunological reactions and to be retained at the site of transplantation. The use of tissue engineering scaffolds or injectable biomaterials as carriers has been proposed, but they still present limitations linked to a reliable manufacturing process, surgical practice and clinical outcomes. Alginate microbeads are potential candidates for the encapsulation of mesenchymal stromal cells with the aim of providing a delivery carrier suitable for minimally-invasive and scaffold-free transplantation, tissue-adhesive properties and protection from the immune response. However, the formation of stable microbeads relies on the cross-linking of alginate with divalent calcium ions at concentrations that are toxic for the cells, making control over the beads’ size and a single-cell encapsulation unreliable. The present work demonstrates the efficiency of an innovative, high throughput, and reproducible microfluidic system to produce single-cell, calcium-free alginate coatings of human mesenchymal stromal cells. Among the various conditions tested, visible light and confocal microscopy following staining of the cell nuclei by DAPI showed that the microfluidic system yielded an optimal single-cell encapsulation of 2000 cells/min in 2% w/v alginate microcapsules of reproducible morphology and an average size of 28.2 ± 3.7 µm. The adhesive properties of the alginate microcapsules, the viability of the encapsulated cells and their ability to escape the alginate microcapsule were demonstrated by the relatively rapid adherence of the beads onto tissue culture plastic and the cells’ ability to gradually disrupt the microcapsule shell after 24 h and proliferate. To mimic the early inflammatory response upon transplantation, the encapsulated cells were exposed to proliferating macrophages at different cell seeding densities for up to 2 days and the protection effect of the microcapsule on the cells assessed by time-lapse microscopy showing a shielding effect for up to 48 h. This work underscores the potential of microfluidic systems to precisely encapsulate cells by good manufacturing practice standards while favouring cell retention on substrates, viability and proliferation upon transplantation.

Graphical Abstract
Electrospun nanofibrous mats loaded with gemcitabine and cisplatin suppress bladder tumor growth by improving the tumor immune microenvironment
Authors: Wang Jing , Yin Yisheng , Ren Xiang , Wang Shaogang , Zhu Yunpeng
Published: March 2024

The perplexing issues related to positive surgical margins and the considerable negative consequences associated with systemic chemotherapy have posed ongoing challenges for clinicians, especially when it comes to addressing bladder cancer treatment. The current investigation describes the production of nanocomposites loaded with gemcitabine (GEM) and cisplatin (CDDP) through the utilization of electrospinning technology. In vitro and in vivo studies have provided evidence of the strong effectiveness in suppressing tumor advancement while simultaneously reducing the accumulation of chemotherapy drugs within liver and kidney tissues. Mechanically, the GEM and CDDP-loaded electrospun nanocomposites could effectively eliminate myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) in tumor tissues, and recruit CD8+ T cells and NKp46+ NK cells to kill tumor cells, which can also effectively inhibit tumor microvascular formation. Our investigation into the impact of localized administration of chemotherapy through GEM and CDDP-loaded electrospun nanocomposites on the tumor microenvironment will offer novel insights for tackling tumors.

Graphical abstract
Boundedness of Solutions of Nonautonomous Degenerate Logistic Equations
Authors: Arrieta José M. , Molina-Rodríguez Marcos , Santos Lucas A.
Published: March 2024

In this work we analyze the boundedness properties of the solutions of a nonautonomous parabolic degenerate logistic equation in a bounded domain. The equation is degenerate in the sense that the logistic nonlinearity vanishes in a moving region, K(t), inside the domain. The boundedness character of the solutions depends not only on, roughly speaking, the first eigenvalue of the Laplace operator in K(t) but also on the way this moving set evolves inside the domain and in particular on the speed at which it moves.
Investigating the Anticancer and Antioxidant Potentials of a Polymer-Grafted Sodium Alginate Composite Embedded with CuO and TiO2 Nanoparticles
Authors: Nemr Omnia T. , Abdel-wahab Mohamed Sh. , Hamza Zeinab S. , Ahmed Sayed A. , El-Bassuony Ashraf A , Abdel-Gawad Omayma F. , Mohamed Hussein S.
Published: March 2024

In this study, we conducted the synthesis of a composite material by grafting an acrylonitrile-co-styrene (AN-co-St) polymer into sodium alginate and incorporating CuO (copper oxide) and TiO2 (titanium dioxide) nanoparticles. The primary objective was to investigate the potential anticancer and antioxidant activities of the composite material. First, CuO and TiO2 nanoparticles were synthesized and characterized for their size, morphology, and surface properties. Subsequently, these nanoparticles were integrated into the sodium alginate matrix, which had been grafted with the AN-co-St polymer, resulting in the formation of the composite material. To confirm successful nanoparticle incorporation and assess the structural integrity of the composite, various techniques such as X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive X-ray analysis (SEM-EDX), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) were employed. The composite material’s anticancer and antioxidant activities were then evaluated. In vitro cell viability assays using the HepG-2 cell line were performed to assess potential cytotoxic effects, while antioxidant (DPPH) assays were conducted to determine the composite’s ability to scavenge free radicals and protect against oxidative stress. Preliminary results indicate that the composite material demonstrated promising anticancer and antioxidant activities. The presence of CuO and TiO2 nanoparticles within the composite contributed to these effects, as these nanoparticles are known to possess anticancer and antioxidant properties. Furthermore, the grafting of the AN-co-St polymer into sodium alginate enhanced the overall performance and stability of the composite material.
Barriers and Facilitators to 24-Month Maintenance of the Faith, Activity, and Nutrition Program in the U.S.
Authors: Day Kelsey R. , Bernhart John A. , Wilcox Sara
Published: March 2024

Little is known about the barriers and facilitators to organizational maintenance of faith-based health promotion programs. This study used qualitative data (collected from 2016–2019) from pastors (n = 81) and program coordinators (n = 103) to identify barriers and facilitators to 24-month maintenance of a faith-based physical activity (PA) and healthy eating (HE) intervention in South Carolina. Barriers differed for PA versus HE: resistance to change impeded HE while church characteristics tended to impede PA. Similar themes emerged for PA and HE facilitators: healthy opportunities, church communication, and consistency. Future research should build upon this study to tailor faith-based health promotion programs for long-term sustainability.
Modeling of kappa factor using multivariate adaptive regression splines: application to the western Türkiye ground motion dataset
Authors: Kurtulmuş Tevfik Özgür , Yerlikaya–Özkurt Fatma , Askan Aysegul
Published: March 2024

The recent seismic activity on Türkiye’s west coast, especially in the Aegean Sea region, shows that this region requires further attention. The region has significant seismic hazards because of its location in an active tectonic regime of North–South extension with multiple basin structures on soft soil deposits. Recently, despite being 70 km from the earthquake source, the Samos event (with a moment magnitude of 7.0 on October 30, 2020) caused significant localized damage and collapse in the Izmir city center due to a combination of basin effects and structural susceptibility. Despite this activity, research on site characterization and site response modeling, such as local velocity models and kappa estimates, remains sparse in this region. Kappa values display regional characteristics, necessitating the use of local kappa estimations from previous earthquake data in region–specific applications. Kappa estimates are multivariate and incorporate several characteristics such as magnitude and distance. In this study, we assess and predict the trend in mean kappa values using three–component strong–ground motion data from accelerometer sites with known VS30 values throughout western Türkiye. Multiple linear regression (MLR) and multivariate adaptive regression splines (MARS) were used to build the prediction models. The effects of epicentral distance Repi, magnitude Mw, and site class (VS30) were investigated, and the contributions of each parameter were examined using a large dataset containing recent seismic activity. The models were evaluated using well–known statistical accuracy criteria for kappa assessment. In all performance measures, the MARS model outperforms the MLR model across the selected sites.
POAS: a framework for exploiting accelerator level parallelism in heterogeneous environments
Authors: Martínez Pablo Antonio , Bernabé Gregorio , García José Manuel
Published: March 2024

In the era of heterogeneous computing, a new paradigm called accelerator level parallelism (ALP) has emerged. In ALP, accelerators are used concurrently to provide unprecedented levels of performance and energy efficiency. To reach that there are many problems to be solved, one of the most challenging being co-execution. In this paper, we present a new scheduling framework called POAS, a general method for providing co-execution to applications. Our proposal consists of four steps: predict, optimize, adapt and schedule. With POAS, an unseen application can be executed concurrently in ALP with little effort. We evaluate POAS on a heterogeneous environment consisting of CPUs, GPUs (CUDA cores), and XPUs (Tensor cores) on two different fields, namely linear algebra (matrix multiplication benchmark) and deep learning (convolution benchmark). Our experiments prove that POAS provides excellent performance and completes the tasks within a time very close to the optimal time for the hardware and applications used, with a negligible execution time overhead. Moreover, the POAS predictor performed exceptionally well, achieving very low RMSE values for both use cases. Therefore, POAS can be a valuable tool for fully exploiting ALP and improving overall performance over offloading in heterogeneous settings.
The role of concussion history and biological sex on baseline concussion clinical profile symptoms in adolescent rugby players
Authors: McKee Connor , Matthews Mark , Kontos Anthony P. , Rankin Alan , Bleakley Chris
Published: March 2024

Background

Accurate concussion monitoring requires access to preinjury baseline data. This is particularly important in adolescent athletes who have a high risk of concussion and are prone to prolonged recovery. As Rugby Union is governed by similar laws for men and women, it is also an ideal population to rigorously examine the impact of biological sex on concussion symptoms.

Aims

To evaluate self-reported concussion symptoms at baseline in adolescent rugby union players, and examine if subtype-specific symptoms are affected by concussion history and biological sex.

Methods

Adolescent rugby union players aged 16–18 years were recruited during the 2022–2023 playing season. Participants completed a series of questionnaires covering post-concussion symptoms, concussion clinical profiles, anxiety, depression and fear avoidance behaviours. Independent variables of interest in analysis were biological sex and concussion history.

Results

149 participants (75% male) were included. 42% (63/149) reported at least one previous concussion (average time since concussion: 18.7 months, range 1–72). Adolescents with a concussion history reported significantly higher scores than those with no history, across two clinical profiles (ocular and sleep), concussion symptom severity, and depression, all based on medium effect sizes (SMD 0.3–0.5). Females had significantly higher scores across cognitive/fatigue, ocular and sleep clinical profiles, concussion symptoms, anxiety and depression, each with large effect sizes (SMD > 0.5).

Conclusions

Concussion history and sex are associated with higher baseline scores on specific concussion clinical profile, concussion symptom severity, and anxiety symptoms. These findings highlight the importance of considering baseline differences when interpreting post-injury clinical profile symptoms in adolescent rugby players. (Trial registration: ACTRN12622000931774).
Planting the Seed for Blood Pressure Control: The Role of Plant-Based Nutrition in the Management of Hypertension
Authors: Charles Justin A. , Habibullah Nilofer Khan , Bautista Saul , Davis Brenda , Joshi Shivam , Hull Sarah C.
Published: March 2024

Purpose of Review

Hypertension results in significant morbidity, mortality, and healthcare expenditures. Fortunately, it is largely preventable and treatable by implementing dietary interventions, though these remain underutilized. Here, we aim to explore the role of healthy dietary patterns in hypertension management and describe approaches for busy clinicians to address nutrition effectively and efficiently with patients.

Recent Findings

DASH, Mediterranean, vegetarian, and vegan diets that include minimally processed, plant-based foods as core elements have consistently shown positive effects on hypertension. Recommendations that distill the most healthful components of these diets can significantly impact patient outcomes. Clinicians can harness evidence-based dietary assessment and counseling tools to implement and support behavioral changes, even during brief office visits.

Healthful plant-based dietary patterns can often effectively prevent and treat hypertension. Clinicians may help improve patient outcomes by discussing evidence-based nutrition with their patients. Future work to promote infrastructural change that supports incorporating evidence-based nutrition into medical education, clinical care, and society at large can support these efforts.
Assessing the reliability of a physical-based model and a convolutional neural network in an ungauged watershed for daily streamflow calculation: a case study in southern Portugal
Authors: Oliveira Ana R. , Ramos Tiago B. , Simionesei Lucian , Neves Ramiro
Published: March 2024

The main goal of this study was to estimate inflows to the Maranhão reservoir, southern Portugal, using two distinct modeling approaches: a one-dimensional convolutional neural network (1D-CNN) model and a physically based model. The 1D-CNN was previously trained, validated, and tested in a sub-basin of the study area where observed streamflow values were available. The trained model was here subject to an improvement and applied to the entire watershed by replacing the forcing variables (accumulated and delayed precipitation) to make them correspond to the values of the entire watershed. The same way, the physically based MOHID-Land model was calibrated and validated for the same sub-basin, and the calibrated parameters were then applied to the entire watershed. Inflow values estimated by both models were validated considering a mass balance at the reservoir. The 1D-CNN model demonstrated a better performance in simulating daily values, peak flows, and the wet period. The MOHID-Land model showed a better performance in estimating streamflow values during dry periods and for a monthly analysis. Hence, results show the adequateness of both modeling solutions for integrating a decision support system aimed at supporting decision-makers in the management of water availability in an area subjected to increasing scarcity.