bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Protecting the heart
Authors: Inglis Joshua M , Mangoni Arduino A
Published: August 2023

Blocking a protein known as EPAC1 may prevent the development of heart-related side effects caused by a chemotherapy drug.
Retorikk og romskapelse
Authors: Gaasland Rolf
Published: August 2023

Denne artikkelen er opptatt av hvordan den som taler i Johann Wolfgang von Goethes «Wandrers Nachtlied II» og Rainer Maria Rilkes «Herbst» best kan forstås. Den tar sitt utgangspunkt i observasjonen av at utsigelseshandlingene i de to diktene kombinerer en retorisk funksjon med en romskapende funksjon, og at begge funksjonene deltar i diktenes organisering som kommunikativ handling på avgjørende måter. Min konklusjon er at forventningene om det følsomme lyriske jeget og den sublime naturen som vi ofte møter romantiske dikt med, motsies av måten utsigelseshandlingen er utformet på i disse to diktene som begge er forbundne med nettopp den romantiske litterære tradisjonen.
Indications of Short Periodicity in the FeXIV 503.3nm Emission Line at the 2008 Solar Eclipse
Authors: Liebenberg Donald H.
Published: August 2023

Observations at the 1 August 2008 total solar eclipse in western China were obtained through a narrow band interference filter centered on the 530.3 nm FeXIV emission line at a cadence of 30 frames/second. A simplified analysis indicates that in a position near the base of a coronal streamer a short period intensity periodicity is found. The analysis and results are presented.
Long-Term Yield Prediction of Greenhouse Sweet Pepper Crops
Authors: Al-Halimi Reem , Moussa Medhat
Published: August 2023

In this paper, a new model for predicting the yield of greenhouse sweet peppers (Capsicum annuum L.) is presented. The model can provide long-term prediction up to 7 weeks in advance with the same accuracy it can predict yield one week in advance. It uses both past and expected environmental readings as well as physiological data as input to a specially designed artificial neural network. The model was tested using 4 years of data that was obtained from commercial pepper growers. Short-term prediction accuracy (one week) is consistent with other predictive models in the literature for sweet peppers. This validates our long-term results.
Diesel Technology in Aviation… Again: Exploring Line Maintenance of the Diesel Engine
Authors: Tetterton Marshall
Published: August 2023

Diesel engine technology has arrived into the general aviation market and its benefits and advancements are changing the way aviation technicians must look at Line Maintenance and troubleshooting. Computer controlled engines need computers for diagnostics and maintenance.
Development and validation of the dizziness fear-avoidance behaviours and beliefs inventory for patients with vestibular disorders
Authors: La Touche Roy , Castillejos-Carrasco-Muñoz Rodrigo , Tapia-Toca María Cruz , Pardo-Montero Joaquín , Lerma-Lara Sergio , de la Rosa-Díaz Irene , Sorrel-Luján Miguel Ángel , Paris-Alemany Alba
Published: August 2023

The purpose of this study is to present the development and analysis of the factorial structure and psychometric properties of a new self-administered questionnaire (Dizziness Fear-Avoidance Behaviours and Beliefs Inventory (D-FABBI)) designed to measure fear-avoidance behaviors and cognitions related to dizziness disability.

A mixed-method design combining a qualitative study with an observational and cross-sectional study was employed to develop (content validity) and psychometrically validate (construct validity, reliability, and convergent/discriminant validity) a new instrument. A total of 198 patients with vestibular disorders (acute vestibular syndrome (AVS), 23.2%; chronic vestibular syndrome (CVS), 35.4%; and episodic vestibular syndrome (EVS) 41.4%) were recruited. Sociodemographic characteristics, the Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI) and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and D-FABBI were evaluated. The final version of the D-FABBI consists of 17 items distributed across two subscales: activities of daily living fear-avoidance and movement fear-avoidance.

The D-FABBI showed high internal consistency (Cronbach α = 0.932; 95% CI [0.91–0.94]) and so did the subscales (Cronbach α > 0.8). The exploratory structural equation model and confirmatory factor analysis provided better fit results, with a comparative fit index and root mean square error of approximation values of 0.907 to 0.081. No floor or ceiling effects were identified. There was a positive, significant, and moderate-strong magnitude correlation with the total DHI (r = 0.62) and low-moderate with respect to the HADS depression (r = 0.35) and HADS anxiety subscales (r = 0.26). The patients with CVS had a higher D-FABBI score than those with AVS or EVS.

The D-FABBI appears to be a valid and reliable instrument for measuring the fear-avoidance behaviors and cognition related to dizziness disability of patients with vestibular disorders.
Evaluation of phosphate rock as the only source of phosphorus for the growth of tall and semi-dwarf durum wheat and rye plants using digital phenotyping
Authors: Bazhenov Mikhail , Litvinov Dmitry , Karlov Gennady , Divashuk Mikhail
Published: August 2023

Background

Phosphorus nutrition is important for obtaining high yields of crop plants. However, wheat plants are known to be almost incapable of taking up phosphorus from insoluble phosphate sources, and reduced height genes are supposed to decrease this ability further.

Methods

We performed a pot experiment using Triticum durum Desf. tall spring variety LD222, its near-isogenic semidwarf line carrying Rht17 (Reduced height 17) gene, and winter rye (Secale cereale L.) variety Chulpan. The individual plants were grown in quartz sand. The phosphorus was provided either as phosphate rock powder mixed with sand, or as monopotassium phosphate solution (normal nutrition control) or was not supplemented at all (no-phosphorus control). Other nutrients were provided in soluble form. During experiment the plants were assessed using the TraitFinder (Phenospex Ltd., Heerlen, Netherlands) digital phenotyping system for a standard set of parameters. Double scan with 90 degrees turns of pots around vertical axis vs. single scan were compared for accuracy of phenotyping.

Results

The phenotyping showed that at least 20 days of growth after seedling emergence were necessary to get stable differences between genotypes. After this initial period, phenotyping confirmed poor ability of wheat to grow on substrate with phosphate rock as the only source of phosphorus compared to rye; however, Rht17 did not cause an additional reduction in growth parameters other than plant height under this variant of substrate. The agreement between digital phenotyping and conventionally measured traits was at previously reported level for grasses (R2 = 0.85 and 0.88 for digital biomass and 3D leaf area vs. conventionally measured biomass and leaf area, single scan). Among vegetation indices, only the normalized differential vegetation index (NDVI) and the green leaf index (GLI) showed significant correlations with manually measured traits, including the percentage of dead leaves area. The double scan improved phenotyping accuracy, but not substantially.
Atributos del modo de habitar mapuche en conjuntos de viviendas con pertenencia indígena de las principales Áreas Metropolitanas de Chile.
Authors: Torres de Cortillas Catalina
Published: August 2023

En el siglo XIX tardío, el pueblo mapuche migró masivamente a las ciudades debido a la reestructuración económica regional y conflictos de tierras con el Estado chileno (Carmona, 2017). Aunque la literatura explora el problema de la vivienda mapuche, se centra en la arquitectura de viviendas tradicionales - espacios urbanos creados por poblaciones mapuche (Fontana & Caulkins, 2016). Surge la pregunta ¿qué atributos del modo de habitar tradicional se mantienen en las viviendas mapuche de Áreas Metropolitanas en Chile?
Este artículo busca destacar similitudes entre los atributos del modo de habitar mapuche y viviendas construidos en 2007 bajo un convenio MINVU- CONADI en las Áreas Metropolitanas de Santiago y Gran Valparaíso, en cuatro dimensiones: (i) orientación de las edificaciones, (ii) espacios de encuentro, (iii) límites entre lo público y privado y (iv) la condición urbana del conjunto residencial. El análisis muestra que el cumplimiento de atributos que refuerzan el modo de habitar mapuche no es absoluto en ninguna Área Metropolitana de Chile. 
Es urgente conocer el estado de los pueblos originarios en las ciudades chilenas y que el ámbito académico y estatal continúe investigando las necesidades de los pueblos originarios en la cultura, arquitectura y ciudad contemporánea del siglo XXI.
Ley de Ordenamiento Territorial y uso de suelo de la Provincia de Buenos Aires.
Authors: Lemarchand Solange Yesica
Published: August 2023

La normativa de ordenamiento territorial y uso del suelo es un instrumento de la política pública que permite orientar el proceso de producción del espacio, cuya finalidad es organizar y planificar la ocupación de este en función del modelo de ciudad que se pretende alcanzar. Esta investigación pretende analizar los efectos que produce la implementación de la normativa de Ordenamiento Territorial y Uso de Suelo de la Provincia de Buenos Aires, en los aspectos territoriales vinculados al desarrollo, considerándolo como el incremento del bienestar y disminución de la desigualdad, relacionado con el acceso a la tierra, la vivienda y un hábitat justo, que son algunas de las principales necesidades sociales.
El trabajo comienza con el concepto de desarrollo y territorio utilizados, y la importancia de la política pública en materia de ordenamiento territorial y uso de suelo. Se presenta la normativa existente a nivel nacional y la correspondiente a la Provincia de Buenos Aires, en cuanto a dimensiones mínimas de parcelas e infraestructura. Finalmente, se pone de manifiesto las desigualdades entre los barrios cerrados y los barrios de vivienda social. Como resultados, se pueden mencionar la falta de cumplimiento del objetivo de ciudad compacta y aumento de la segregación socioespacial.
Evaluation of Paste and Aqueous Lubricants on the Incidence of File Breakage, Quality of Obturation and Postoperative Pain in Children after Pulpectomy in Primary Teeth: A Randomised Clinical Trial
Authors: Gandhi Janvi Manish , Jeevanandan Ganesh , Govindaraju Lavanya
Published: August 2023

Introduction: Pulpectomy in primary teeth involves various steps, including tooth isolation, access opening, canal instrumentation, and obturation. Lubricants are commonly used in the biomechanical preparation of root canals to suspend and emulsify debris generated by the mechanical action of hand and rotary files. While paste-type lubricants (Prime Dental RC Help) and aqueous lubricants (17% aqueous Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid [EDTA]) are available for use, there is a lack of studies in the literature documenting the effects of these lubricants on file fracture, obturation quality, and postoperative pain. Aim: To compare the effects of paste-type lubricants with aqueous lubricants on file breakage, quality of obturation, and postoperative pain in children treated with pulpectomy in primary teeth. Materials and Methods: This randomised clinical trial involved 40 primary teeth, evenly distributed for instrumentation using Kedo-S Plus pediatric rotary files. In Group 1 (n=20), paste-type lubricant was used during canal preparation, while in Group 2 (n=20), aqueous lubricant was used. The clinician recorded data on file fractures, evaluated the quality of obturation using immediate postoperative radiographs, and measured postoperative pain using the Four-point facial pain intensity rating scale. Descriptive statistics were performed once the data was tabulated. Results: Total of 40 primary teeth were included, participants aged 4-9 years, 22 girls and 18 boys. There was no incidence of file fracture in the group-2 treated with aqueous lubricants. Regarding the quality of obturation, the group-1 treated with paste-type lubricant had a higher number of under-fill and over-fill cases (p=0.002, 0.001), while no statistically significant difference was observed between the groups in terms of optimal fill (p=0.661). At 6, 12, 24, and 48 hours, there was no difference in pain experienced by the participants in both groups (p>0.05). Conclusion: During rotary instrumentation in primary teeth, aqueous lubricants were found to be more effective than pastetype lubricants in preventing file breakage, providing optimal obturation quality, and reducing postoperative pain.
Trend Analysis and Determinants of under-5 Mortality in Nigeria: A Machine Learning Approach
Authors: Ntukidem Solomon , Chukwu Angela , Oyamakin Oluwafemi , James Christabel , Habimana-Kabano Ignace
Published: August 2023

The study aimed to examine the trend of the under-five mortality rate in Nigeria from 2003 to 2018 and the determinants of under-five mortality using the Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) data. The data for the study was the Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey data conducted in 2003, 2008, 2013, and 2018. These four surveys were used to study under-five mortality trends within the study period, while machine learning was applied only to the 2018 dataset being the latest in Nigeria. The data were partitioned into training and testing sets. 30% of the dataset was randomly selected for testing, while 70% was used in training the model. Before applying logistic regression and neural networks, the essential under-five mortality variables were first selected using a random forest classifier.

The trend showed that the mortality rates were 200.72, 156.86, 128.05, and 132.02 in 2003, 2008, 2013, and 2018 respectively, per 1,000 live births. This result means that one in every five children died before their fifth birthday in 2003, one in six in 2008, one in eight in 2013, and one in seven in 2018. The forecast result indicated that the under-five mortality rate would likely be 102.17 in 2023. The variable importance result of the random forest showed that breastfeeding (when the child was put to the breast after birth) had the highest contribution to under-five mortality. The breakdown of breastfeeding from the logistic regression result showed that delaying the breastfeeding of a child to 6-23 hours in comparison with 0-5 hours after birth increases by 1.4 fold the likelihood of child death. The accuracy of logistic regression (LR) on the test set was 60%, and that of deep neural network (DNN) was 74%, recall (sensitivity) for LR was 63%, and DNN was 75%), Precision (LR=97%, DNN=95), F1 score (LR=76%, DNN=84%) and area under the curve (AUC) (LR=79%, DNN=77%).

Both logistic regression and deep neural network models performed very well in discriminative ability and accuracy. The deep neural network had a better performance than the logistic regression.
Comparative Screening of Phytochemicals and Bioactive Compounds of Trema orientalis (Linn. Blume) Leaf and Bark Extracts
Authors: Fabowale P. O. , Agunloye O. , Adekanmbi I. C.
Published: August 2023

This study compared the phytochemical constituents of the leaf with the Bark extracts of T. orientalis, using the same extraction solvents. The leaf and Bark of T. orientalis were harvested at Federal University of Technology, Akure forest, dried and pulverized into powder. Extract were prepared from the powdered plants using Methanol and N-hexane.  The qualitative and quantitative phytochemical presents in the extracts were determined. The functional compounds of the leaf extract were determined by Fourier Transmission Infrared Spectrometry (FT-IR). Percentage yield of Methanol was better than N-hexane for both plant parts. The phytochemicals revealed includes: Tannins, Saponins, Flavonoids, Steroids, terpenoids and cardiac glycosides. Steroids are present in Leaf extracts but absent in Bark extract, while Saponin is only present in methanol extract of Bark of the plant.  Quantitative analysis revealed that terpenoids have the highest amount with 22.90 ± 0.03 mg/g in methanol extract and 28.09 ± 0.07 mg/g in N-hexane, compared with Bark extract that has 22.22 ± 0.09 mg/g in methanol extract and 23.38 ± 0.04 mg/g in N-hexane extracts. Higher quantity of phytochemicals are present in the leaf compared with the Bark of T. orientalis The Fourier Transformed Infrared spectrometry analysis, FT-IR, unveiled the organic compounds available in the extracts, which are: aliphatic primary alcohol, secondary alcohol, aliphatic primary amine, alkane, alkene, carbon dioxide, deta-lactam, phenol, and halo compound. These results indicate that T. orientalis is promising in the choice of medicinal plant for therapeutic research.
Wheat Genotype Evaluation for Spot Blotch Disease Resistance: Unveiling Resilient Varieties
Authors: Kumar Deepak , Singh Ramji , Khilari Kamal , Mishra Prashant , Singh D. V.
Published: August 2023

Spot blotch, caused by Bipolaris sorokiniana (Sacc.) Shoemaker is a major disease of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), in all the six agro climatic zones of India. Estimation of losses due to this disease vary from location to location, due to diverse environmental conditions. The use of resistant cultivars is the most effective, long-lasting, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly technique for sustainable disease control. The experiment was conducted at Crop Research Centre, Chirodi farm of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology, Meerut (U.P.). Among the tested varieties, disease index and AUDPC values varied significantly for both years’ data viz. 2021-22 and 2022-23. In this experiment 32 wheat varieties were screened against B. sorokiniana under artificial epiphytotic conditions in the field. Each variety were sown in two row of three-meter length with three replications, two line of susceptible check RAJ 4015 was sown at every ten genotypes of interval. Among 32 wheat varieties, two varieties were found to be resistant, eleven varieties were found moderately resistant, fourteen varieties were found moderately susceptible and five varieties were found susceptible, none of the variety was found immune and highly susceptible against spot blotch disease. Area Under Disease Progress Curve (AUDPC) calculated for the thirty- two wheat varieties on the basis of disease index. AUDPC varies from 212.90 to 1143.9 and 198.80 to 1144.90 during the 2021-22 and 2022-23 years’ data. The pooled mean, Area Under Disease Progress Curve varied from 205.85 to 1144.40, showing the fast progress of disease in all genotypes.  It was observed that different wheat varieties expressed varied type of disease response against B. sorokiniana.
Isolation and Characterization of Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria form Raphanus sativus (Radish)
Authors: Yadav Sanjay Kumar , Singh Poonam
Published: August 2023

Rhizobacteria are present in rhizosphere region of plant root system, which enhance the plant growth by various way like biological nitrogen fixation, siderophore production, phosphate solubilization and phytohormone production. The soil samples were collected from rhizosphere region of Raphanus sativus, after enrichment rhizobacteria was isolated by serial dilution method, diluted sample were spread on respective solid agar media plates. Isolated rhizobacteria was identify by biochemical and molecular characterization methods. The isolated PGPRs was Bacillus subtilis which was showed phosphate solubilization activity and they were enhanced 30% more green gram seed germination. The method of current research is screening, isolation and biochemical characterization of rhizobacteria form rhizosphere region of Raphanus sativus. Phosphate solubilizing bacteria, solubilized the unavailable phosphate and provide to plant. The main purpose of this research paper is to widen the understanding of the role of phosphate solubilizing bacteria in crop production as biofertilizers.
Foliar Application of Nutrient Formulation to Enhance Growth and PRSV Tolerance in Commercial Varieties of Papaya
Authors: Kumar K. Naveen , Kavitha C. , Muthuvel I. , Kalarani M.K. , Elaiyabharathi T.
Published: August 2023

Papaya is an important tropical fruit crop mainly cultivated for fresh fruit as well as papain production. Papaya ring spot virus (PRSV) is a major threat to papaya cultivation which results in severe yield loss. A field experiment was carried out to study the efficacy of a nutrient formulation on the growth attributes and PRSV incidence in commercial papaya varieties at HC&RI, TNAU, Coimbatore during 2022 -2023. The study involved two main plots viz., M1- TNAU Papaya CO 8 (dioecious variety) and M2- Red Lady (gynodioecious variety) and two sub plots viz., S1- Foliar spray of nutrient formulation at monthly interval (3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th and 7th MAP) and S2- Control (without spray) with 13 replications in split plot design. The results revealed that improved growth attributes and lesser incidence of PRSV at flowering stage were registered in treatment with foliar application of nutrient formulation from 3rd to 7th MAP at monthly interval in both TNAU Papaya CO 8 and Red Lady when compared to their respective control and among the varieties TNAU Papaya CO 8 responded comparatively better than Red Lady.
Effect of Application of Zn and Mn on Growth, Yield and Economics of Garden Pea (Pisum sativum var. hortense L.)
Authors: Heena  , Yadav Deependra , Kumar Sandeep , Ravinder  , Kumar Alok
Published: August 2023

The present investigation entitled “Effect of application of Zn and Mn on growth and yield and economics of garden pea (Pisum sativum var. hortense L.) was carried out at the Research farm of the School of Agriculture, Abhilashi University, Mandi (H.P.) during Rabi season 2021. The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design with seven treatments in three replications. The result revealed that the soil chemical properties i.e., Soil pH (5.98 pH) was maximum recorded in T6 (basal application of Zn @ 50% of RDF and Mn @ 50% of RDF + foliar application of Zn @ 1% and Mn @ 0.5%.) which showed non-significant effect on soil pH, available Zn and Mn was maximum recorded in T3 basal application of Zn @ 100% of RDF + Mn @ 100% of RDF (1.67 ppm) and (2.01 ppm), maximum organic carbon (0.74 %) was maximum observed in T6  basal application of Zn @ 50% of RDF and Mn @ 50% of RDF + foliar application of Zn @ 1% and Mn @ 0.5%. Minimum days to 50% emergence (25.33), maximum plant height (31.66 cm, 53.33 cm at 30, 45 DAS respectively), number of leaves per plant (23.02 and 41.23 at 30 and 60 DAS respectively), fresh weight (62.06 g), dry weight (6.84 g), days to 50% flowering (37.33), number of pods per plant (15.79), shelling percentage (51.40 %), number of seeds/pod (8.46) individual pod weight (6.33 g), yield/plant (113.69 g), yield/plot (14.55 kg) and yield per hectare (194.00 q/ha) , highest net return (3,26,535) along with maximum benefit: net return per rupee invested (1:4.25) were recorded with the use basal application of Zn @ 50% of RDF and Mn @ 50% of RDF + foliar application of Zn @ 1% and Mn @ 0.5% in treatment T6. Basal application of Zn @ 50% of RDF and Mn @ 50% of RDF + foliar application of Zn @ 1% and Mn @ 0.5% was found highly beneficial for plant growth, yield and economics of garden pea.
Analysis of the Responses to Pasteurization Temperatures of Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Derived from Milk Items
Authors: Kanaan Manal Hadi Ghaffoori , Sheriff Nazar A. , Abdullah Sura Saad
Published: August 2023

Background and Aim: One of the leading causes of both community- and hospital-acquired infections is the superbug," multidrug-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Milk and dairy products seem to be highly vulnerable to a wide range of diseases. Therefore, we require processing procedures that both eliminate pathogens and lengthen the useful life of these products. The purpose of this study was to determine how susceptible MRSA isolates were to pasteurization temperatures after being recovered from dairy products.

Materials and Methods: For the purpose of pasteurization, ten MRSA isolates were exposed to both a 63°C LTLT (low temperature, long time) therapy for 30 minutes and a 72°C HTST (high temperature, short time) treatment for 16 seconds.

Results: The findings indicated that all isolates were killed by a pasteurization-like treatment at low temperature for a long time (63°C for 30 minutes), but that particular adaptable isolates could survive a pasteurization-like treatment at high temperature for a short time (72°C for 16 seconds), which may point to a time- and temperature-dependent variation in the thermal tolerance mechanism.

Conclusion: The results showed that all isolates seemed extremely susceptible to damage from heat using LTLT pasteurization-like treatment (63°C for 30 minutes). Nevertheless, a particular number of these isolates succeeded in establishing colonies because they have quorum sensing structures that survive being handled by using heat damage at 72°C for 16 seconds. Pasteurized milk producers should be alerted to the fact that this microorganism has been found in contaminated milk since it compromises the product's safety and diminishes its value to consumers. As a result, it is strongly advised that manufacturers utilize varied temperatures for milk processing in order to remove the contaminating methicillin- and heat-resistant S. aureus (MHRSA).
Does Financial Literacy Matter in Cashless Payment Usage?
Authors: Bemby Fatih Andesita Wuri , Qomariyah Alfiyatul
Published: August 2023

This study aims to examine the effect of social influence and effort expectancy on the intention to use and actual usage of cashless payment systems with financial literacy as moderating variable. To conduct this study questionnaires were distributed to all active accounting students at Airlangga University and from there, 128 research samples were obtained. The collected data were analyzed using WarpPLS 8.0. The results show that effort expectancy and social influence have a positive effect on the intention to use cashless payment systems. The result also shows that the intention to use cashless payment systems has a positive effect on the actual usage of cashless payment systems. In addition, the research results indicate that financial literacy does not moderate the effect of effort expectancy and social influence on the intention to use cashless payment. The results of this study are expected to provide insight and a better understanding of financial literacy and cashless payment system.
Field-Driven Physical Fitness Assessment for Firefighters: Overcoming Challenges and Improving Standards
Authors: Choi Bok-Moo , Park Ha-soung , Kong Ha-sung
Published: August 2023

Being a firefighter is a profession that requires a higher level of physical fitness compared to the general population. This fitness is crucial for effectively carrying out firefighting duties in specialized environments. The level of physical fitness is assessed during the initial employment examination and periodically evaluated throughout the firefighter's career. However, after conducting expert group interviews and surveys with current firefighters, several issues were identified with the current system, which mainly consists of basic physical fitness assessments. These issues include a lack of relevance to actual firefighting tasks, a high risk of injury for participants, inadequate reliability of measurement instruments and assessors, and a failure to incorporate appropriate exercises for improving physical fitness. To address these concerns, an analysis was conducted on the implementation of the U.S. Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) and the performance evaluation of 629 domestic firefighters before and after an 8-week training program. The analysis revealed a significant reduction of approximately 18% in completion time and 17% in oxygen consumption pressure after the training period. These findings highlight the need to move beyond simple physical fitness assessments and develop a new fitness testing system that is specifically tailored to the demands of modern firefighting tasks. This study provides essential data that can serve as a foundation for future research on the development of an improved firefighting fitness testing system. The goal is to establish a reliable and trustworthy system that aligns with public expectations.
Efficacy of Surge Protective Devices in Safeguarding Automatic Fire Alarm System
Authors: Kim Guhyeon , Choi Jihun
Published: August 2023

Korea experiences ~ 115,000 lightning strikes annually, posing a significant risk to automatic fire alarm systems. These strikes can increase surge-related issues, increasing the possibility of false operation and component damage to automatic fire alarm systems. Additionally, the components’ life span might be shortened due to long-term stress. Therefore, in this study, a verification test was conducted to verify the effectiveness of SPD (Surge Protective Device) in protecting the receiver of an automatic fire detection facility from overvoltage and lightning-induced surges. The test conditions were selected by comparing and applying domestic and foreign standards. The study analyzed the effect of surge on automatic fire detection equipment systems through a single SPD test and a surge approval test. Our findings demonstrated that when the SPD was installed, the surge was effectively discharged, limiting the open circuit voltage to 10 kV and suppressing any short circuit to 5 kA or less. Conversely, when the SPD was not installed, various phenomena, such as voltage limitation, damage, and arc generation, were observed. This test study holds the potential to be used as primary data for installing SPD in firefighting facilities.
Safety Evaluation of Hinged Pump-Type Water Gate Fixing Device
Authors: Bang GeonHyeok , Lee Jaehoon , Heo Gwanghee , Seo Sang Gu , Jeon Seunggon
Published: August 2023

In several mountainous areas in Korea, the number of small-scale storage facilities are on the rise. The safety of the opening and closing devices of sluice gates used in storage facilities is important. Recently, during the opening and closing of a water gate that used hydraulic pressure, sagging had occurred owing to the loss of hydraulic pressure over time. To solve the sagging problem of the water gate, a hydraulic loss prevention fixing device is used. The purpose of this study is to induce the safety design of a water gate through a theoretical and numerical review of the safety of a fixing device of the water gate. First, to theoretically secure the stability of the water gate fixing device, the fixing device was simplified and analyzed using the transformed-section method considering its cross-sectional height. In addition, the simplified fixing device assumed the point conditions according to the connection type, and the maximum deflection occurring in the fixing device was calculated considering the cross section conversion under the condition of the load acting on it. Through this structural analysis, the maximum deflection problem and stress generated in the fixing device were confirmed, and the safety of the fixing device was assessed to present its safety standard. The FE numerical analysis performed for comparative verification was interpreted as a condition of linear elasticity of isotropy in the fixing device. Consequently, a safety design method for the pump-type water gate fixing device was presented through the theoretical and numerical verification for securing its safety.
Automatic Rail Detection Technology Based on PointNet++ Using 3D Point Cloud Data of Railway Bridges
Authors: Lee Jae Hyuk , Park Jeong Jun , Shin Hyun Oh , Yoon Hyungchul
Published: August 2023

Recently, railway maintenance has been receiving significant attention to prevent railway accidents. Accordingly, various methods are being developed that apply IT to railroad maintenance, and digital models can be used for an efficient management. To develop a railroad digital model, current status information of the rail is required. However, the existing method consumes considerable time and cost. Therefore, in this study, we proposed a system to scan the railroad using a UAV and automatically detect the rail using PointNet++. The proposed system consisted of Phase 1 (structure from motion) and Phase 2 (rail detection). To verify the performance of the proposed system, the railroad bridge of the Osong test track in Nojang-ri, Jeondong-myeon, Sejong City, South Korea, was targeted. The proposed system is expected to be utilized in various fields such as damage detection, simulation, predictive maintenance, and efficient operation management.
Gratifications Sought and Obtained: Possible Improvements for COVID-19 Disaster Text Messages from the User’s Perspective
Authors: Choi Youngsun
Published: August 2023

This study aimed to identify the difference between users’ Gratifications Sought (GS) for disaster text messages and the actual Gratifications Obtained (GO) from such messages delivering disaster information during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study aimed to derive insights for enhancing the effectiveness of disaster text messages. A survey approach was adopted, which derived GS for disaster information through literature review and big data analysis. Following this, a panel was formed to conduct a survey. The survey revealed three key attributes of GS for disaster messages through factor analysis: ① informativeness (prompt, specific, and accurate information), ② reliability (consistency, continuity), and ③ responsiveness (community maintenance, caring, understanding, and empathy). The comparison between GS and GO showed that GS was higher than GO, particularly in terms of information specificity, reliability, and consistency. Furthermore, a positive correlation emerged between age, family size, and media usage and the favorable evaluation of disaster text messages.
Analysis and Improvement of the Fire Incidents in Apartment Houses
Authors: Ko Jihun , Kim Woochang , Kim Hakjoong , Kim Nakseok
Published: August 2023

In recent years, rapid urbanization and overcrowding have led to the construction of apartment buildings as a means of optimizing land utilization and providing residential facilities. However, among the firefighting facilities installed in these apartments, there is often a lack of automatic sprinklers or fire extinguishing devices in kitchens, particularly in older buildings. This absence of firefighting equipment makes it challenging to extinguish or control fires in their initial stages. To effectively reduce the occurrence of fires in apartment buildings, this study analyzed apartment fire incidents from 2015 to 2021 using the National Fire Data System of the National Fire Service. The analysis revealed that out of a total of 33,807 fires in multi-unit dwellings, 20,236 (59.9%) occurred in apartments. Consequently, there is a need for institutional improvements, as well as increased safety awareness among residents living in apartments and proactive engagement from facility managers.
Contraceptive Prescribing Among People Treated for Opioid Use Disorder
Authors: Fry Carrie E. , Li Yixuan , Horta Manuel , Leech Ashley A.
Published: January 2025

This cross-sectional study examines prescription claims for contraceptives and medications for opioid use disorder among commercially insured women in the US from 2016 to 2021.
Advancing Mechanical Computing: Modular Design and Multi‐Dimensional Signal Transmission
Authors: Zou Bihui , Liu Zhipeng , Ding Qinyun , Zhong Dijia , Wang Yuhao , Zhang Jingjing , Ju Jaehyung
Published: January 2025

Mechanical computing, while not poised to replace electronic computing, presents a complementary solution in areas where electronic systems face challenges like high power consumption and environmental vulnerability. Despite the inherent limitations of mechanical systems in speed, size, and functional scalability, their unique 2D and 3D geometries offer multi‐dimensional signal transmission and non‐volatile logic computing, potentially enhancing computational density. However, a lack of advanced modular design strategies for complex systems has hindered progress in mechanical computing. This study introduces a top‐down design approach to non‐volatile logic mechanical computing using multi‐output logic gates designed with square lattices and bistable beams, addressing functional scalability through a modular design that facilitates the assembly of mechanical circuits. This innovation not only enhances computational density but also reduces system size, offering new avenues for research in fields like soft robotics and active metamaterials, and setting the stage for advances in mechanical computing systems.
Dual HATs‐mediated Catalyst‐free sp3 C‐H Bond Functionalization for Regioselective Radical Hydroalkylation of Ynazoles
Authors: Wu Yu-Xin , Chen Xiang , Ou Bang-Yan , Yan Qian , Chen Si-Han , Zhao Ya-Wen , Li Zhi-Wei , Liu Han-Wen , Li Jiang-Sheng
Published: January 2025

Direct hydroalkylation of ynazoles, facilitating the efficient synthesis of linear N‐β‐vinylazoles, is accomplished through the functionalization of sp3 C‐H bonds using trace amounts of dioxygen as an initiator. This reagent‐free method eliminates the need for exogenous reagents and proceeds through a radical chain mechanism involving dual hydrogen atom transfer (HAT) processes. Its application potential is exemplified through the implementation of scale‐up operations.
Regio‐ and Stereoselective β‐C(sp3)‒H Activation/ Functionalization of Saturated Nitrogen Heterocycles, Amines and Amides
Authors: Yadav Sanjay , V Murugesh , Suresh Surisetti
Published: January 2025

Regio‐ and stereoselective β‐C(sp3)‒H bond functionalizations of saturated nitrogen heterocycles, amines/amides are challenging and have emerged as an important topic of research in the area of C(sp3)‒H activation. Herein, we have summarized various β‐C(sp3)‒H activation/functionalization methods; this review provides an overview of various trending approaches for β‐C(sp3)‒H bond activation/functionalization of saturated nitrogen heterocycles, amines/amides. The regio‐ and stereoselective β‐C(sp3)‒H bond activation methods are classified based on the reaction pathways. The literature methods including directing group or ligand‐assisted reactions, reactions proceeding through enamine intermediate, redox‐neutral methods and other trending methods including photoredox and transitional metal‐free methods are discussed with recent updates.
Deletion of Pyruvate Carboxylase in Tubular Epithelial Cell Promotes Renal Fibrosis by Regulating SQOR/cGAS/STING‐Mediated Glycolysis
Authors: Huang Hao , Han Yuanyuan , Zhang Yan , Zeng Jianhua , He Xin , Cheng Jiawei , Wang Songkai , Xiong Yiwei , Yin Hongling , Yuan Qiongjing , Huang Ling , Xie Yanyun , Meng Jie , Tao Lijian , Peng Zhangzhe
Published: January 2025

Renal fibrosis is a common pathway involved in the progression of various chronic kidney diseases to end‐stage renal disease. Recent studies show that mitochondrial injury of renal tubular epithelial cells (RTECs) is a crucial pathological foundation for renal fibrosis. However, the underlying regulatory mechanisms remain unclear. Pyruvate carboxylase (PC) is a catalytic enzyme located within the mitochondria that is intricately linked with mitochondrial damage and metabolism. In the present study, the downregulation of PC in various fibrotic animal and human kidney samples is demonstrated. Renal proximal tubule–specific Pcx gene knockout mice (PcxcKO) has significant interstitial fibrosis compared to control mice, with heightened expression of extracellular matrix molecules. This is further demonstrated in a stable PC knock‐out RTEC line. Mechanistically, PC deficiency reduces its interaction with sulfide:quinone oxidoreductase (SQOR), increasing the ubiquitination and degradation of SQOR. This leads to mitochondrial morphological and functional disruption, increased mtDNA release, activation of the cGAS‐STING pathway, and elevated glycolysis levels, and ultimately, promotes renal fibrosis. This study investigates the molecular mechanisms through which PC deficiency induces mitochondrial injury and metabolic reprogramming in RTECs. This study provides a novel theoretical foundation and potential therapeutic targets for the pathogenesis and treatment of renal fibrosis.
Enhancing RT‐PCR Throughput and Sensitivity through Large‐Scale Sample Pooling Using a Nano‐Hybrid Membrane
Authors: Lee Na Eun , Kim Kang Hyeon , Hong Ji Hye , Lee Seungmin , Park Jeong Soo , Lee Dohwan , Yoon Dae Sung , Lee Jeong Hoon
Published: January 2025

During the pandemic surge, including SARS‐CoV‐2 and influenza, pooling samples emerged as an efficient strategy to identify infected individuals in large groups. While pooling enhances RT‐PCR throughput, reducing costs and resources, it dilutes positive samples with negative ones, lowering sensitivity and increasing false negatives. This study proposes a new method to address the trade‐off between pool sizes and RT‐PCR accuracy. This method integrates large‐scale pooling with sample enrichment using a nano‐hybrid membrane, preventing the pooling‐induced decrease in viral concentration and maintaining cycle threshold (Ct) values close to individual positive samples. The nano‐hybrid membrane, named SIMPLE (streamlined, simple, and inexpensive method for preconcentration, lysis, and nucleic acid extraction), comprises layered red blood cell membranes, polyethersulfone, and silica membranes. Using SIMPLE, a Ct value reduction to ≈2.6 is demonstrated in pooled COVID‐19 samples with a pool size of 6 and found Ct values from larger pool sizes (8, 16, 32, 64, and 128) comparable to individual positive samples.
Methane Bubbled Through Seawater Can be Converted to Methanol With High Efficiency
Authors: Song Xiaowei , Basheer Chanbasha , Xu Jinheng , Adam Muhammad Mustapha , Zare Richard N.
Published: January 2025

Partial oxidation of methane (POM) is achieved by forming air‐methane microbubbles in saltwater to which an alternating electric field is applied using a copper oxide foam electrode. The solubility of methane is increased by putting it in contact with water containing dissolved KCl or NaCl (3%). Being fully dispersed as microbubbles (20–40 µm in diameter), methane reacts more fully with hydroxyl radicals (OH·) at the gas‐water interface. The alternating voltage (100 mV) generates two synergistic POM processes dominated by Cl− → Cl· + e− and O2 + e− → O2−• under positive and negative potentials, respectively. By tuning the frequency and amplitude, the extent and path of the POM process can be precisely controlled so that more than 90% methanol is selectively formed compared to the two byproducts, dichloromethane, and acetic acid. The methane to methanol conversion yield is estimated to be 57% at a rate of approximately 887 µM h−1. This method appears to have potential for removing methane from air using seawater or for converting higher‐concentration methane sources into value‐added methanol.
Environmentally Friendly and Simple Recycling of Titanium Alloy Scrap via Deoxygenation with Hybrid Hydrogen Plasma Arc
Authors: Jiang Botao , Wang Liang , Zhou Guotao , Liu Xu , Lu Hongyu , Zhu Guoqiang , Du Jiaxin , Zhao Chunzhi , Su Baoxian , Wang Binbin , Chen Ruirun , Su Yanqing
Published: January 2025

The potential of hydrogen plasma arc technology for the efficient deoxygenation and recycling of titanium alloy scrap is explored. The results of thermodynamic analysis reveal that hydrogen plasma is suitable for oxygen removal. The intermediate stages of the deoxygenation process are sequentially analyzed, showing that the hydrogen plasma arc primarily facilitated the reduction and dissolution of oxides as well as eliminated interstitial oxygen. The experimental results demonstrate that the deoxygenation dynamics are governed by the interaction between the hydrogen partial pressure and the surface area of the hydrogen plasma arc irradiation range. Furthermore, the results of the detailed characterization of the recycled titanium alloys indicate that hydrogen plasma arc technology not only reduces the oxygen content to levels compliant with industrial standards for Ti‐6Al‐4 V but also substantially enhances the tensile strength and ductility of Ti‐6Al‐4 V compared with those of conventional cast titanium alloys. The results of microstructural analysis show that hydrogen tends to concentrate in the β phase, whereas oxygen is predominantly found in the α phase. These findings highlight the effectiveness of hydrogen plasma arc technology, which offers environmental benefits and improves the performance of the resulting material, indicating its promise as a solution for titanium recycling.
Nano‐Zinc Sulfide Modified 3D Reconstructed Zinc Anode with Induced Deposition Effect Assists Long‐Cycle Stable Aqueous Zinc Ion Battery
Authors: Guo Dongfang , Li Fengyu , Zhang Bin
Published: January 2025

Aqueous zinc ion batteries are often adversely affected by the poor stability of zinc metal anodes. Persistent water‐induced side reactions and uncontrolled dendrite growth have seriously damaged the long‐term service life of aqueous zinc ion batteries. In this paper, it is reported that a zinc sulfide with optimized electron arrangement on the surface of zinc anode is used to modify the zinc anode to achieve long‐term cycle stability of zinc anode. The effective active sites of the zinc metal anode surface are first significantly improved by a simple ultrasound‐assisted etching strategy, and then the in situ zinc sulfide interface phase further guides the zinc ion deposition behavior on the surface of the zinc metal anode. The zinc sulfide protective layer well regulates the interfacial electric field and the migration of Zn2+, thereby significantly promoting the homogenization of zinc ion flux to achieve dendrite‐free deposition. In addition, the aqueous zinc ion full cell assembled based on ZnS@3D‐Zn anode achieves better output performance in long‐term cycles. In summary, this work sheds light on the importance of reasonable interfacial modification for the development of dendrite‐free and stable zinc anode chemistry, which opens up a new path for promoting the development of zinc‐based batteries.
Short‐term outcomes of intracorporeal anastomosis in laparoscopic colectomy for colon cancer: A nationwide, multi‐institutional cohort study in Japan (ICAN study)
Authors: Yamaguchi Tomohiro , Tanaka Keitaro , Watanabe Jun , Hamamoto Hiroki , Nishimura Atsushi , Fujita Fumihiko , Suwa Hirokazu , Ito Masaaki , Kawai Kazushige , Hiro Junichiro , Yamamoto Seiichiro , Nambara Sho , Ota Masato , Ito Yuri , Okuda Junji , Inomata Masafumi , Watanabe Masahiko , Naitoh Takeshi ,   ICAN Collaborative Study Group of the Japan Society of Laparoscopic Colorectal Surgery
Published: January 2025

Background

Several randomized controlled trials and meta‐analyses have demonstrated the potential advantages of intracorporeal over extracorporeal anastomosis. However, the heterogeneity and small samples of these studies complicate drawing clear conclusions regarding such advantages. In this nationwide, multicenter, retrospective cohort study, we aimed to clarify the benefits of intracorporeal over extracorporeal anastomosis in patients undergoing laparoscopic colectomy for colon cancer.

Methods

This study included 46 institutions. Patients with clinical stage 0–III colon adenocarcinoma who underwent laparoscopic colectomy between January 2020 and December 2021 were evaluated. The effect of intracorporeal anastomosis on short‐term outcomes compared to extracorporeal anastomosis was assessed using propensity score matching.

Results

A total of 1245 patients (intracorporeal, n = 615; extracorporeal, n = 630) were included in the final analysis. The operative time was longer (228 vs. 207 min, p < 0.001), but blood loss was also lower (5.0 vs. 10.0 mL, p < 0.001) and the incidence of intraoperative vascular injury appeared lower (0.5% vs. 1.6%, p = 0.091) in the intracorporeal group than those in the extracorporeal group. The time to first passage of stool (2.9 vs. 3.5 days, p < 0.001) and length of hospital stay (9.3 vs. 10.2 days, p = 0.008) were shorter in the intracorporeal group.

Conclusions

Intracorporeal anastomosis showed advantages over extracorporeal anastomosis in terms of blood loss, intraoperative vascular injury (potentially), bowel recovery, and length of hospital stay, despite the longer operative time.