bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ultrasound Guided Local Delivery of Bioorthogonal PDL1 Degrader for Enhanced Immunotherapy
Authors: Wang Lantian , Liu Zhaoyou , Ji Panpan , Ma Jiao , Mou Ke , Zhou Tian , Liang Yuan , Zhang Bin , Wei Mengying , Yang Guodong , Sun Wenqi , Gong Li , Yuan Lijun
Published: November 2024

Immunotherapy involving PDL1 degradation holds great potential in anti‐tumor treatment. Optimal design of PDL1 degraders and subsequent efficient delivery into tumors are essential for expected efficacy, especially when abnormal tumor vasculature is considered. Herein, a nanodroplet‐based novel drug delivery platform termed as NDsmTx (nanodroplet‐based therapeutics) for ultrasound targeted delivery of PDL1 degrader is designed. Briefly, the shell of the NDsmTx is armed with RGD and mPD1 (a bioorthogonal PD1 mutant produced by genetic codon expansion technology can covalently bind PDL1), and the core is composed of perfluorohexane (PFH, C6F14). The RGD on the NDsmTx recognizes αvβ3 expressed by tumor vasculature, making NDsmTx accumulated in tumor practical and visible by low‐frequency ultrasound (LFUS). In turn, inertial cavitation induced by LFUS facilitates mPD1 on the nanodroplet debris penetrating the tumor, where mPD1 covalently binds PDL1 and initiates a lysosomal degradation process. Through both in vitro and in vivo study, the superior performance of NDsmTx in degrading PDL1 and boosting anti‐tumor immunity is confirmed. In conclusion, NDsmTx emerge as an alternative to existing PDL1 blockers in tumor immunotherapy.
Bioactive Peptide Hydrogel Scaffold with High Fluidity, Thermosensitivity, and Neurotropism in 3D Spatial Structure for Promoted Repair of Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Sun Zhengang , Luan Xin , Sun Zhenjuan , Li Dagang , Hu Huiqiang , Xue Qingpei , Liu Bo , Yu Qianqian , Wei Gang , Zhang Xuanfen , Xi Yongming
Published: November 2024

Spinal cord injury (SCI) has been considered a clinically challenging disease that is characterized by local disturbance of the microenvironment, which inhibits post‐injury neural regeneration. The simulation of a microenvironment conducive to the regeneration of spinal cord is beneficial for SCI repair. In this study, bioactive composite hydrogels are developed that mimic the regenerative microenvironment of spinal cord for enhanced SCI repair. The fabricated composite hydrogels (CRP) based on chitosan (CS), RADA16 nanofibers, and nerve‐promoted peptide (PPFLMLLKGSTR) exhibit excellent injectability, superior biodegradability and biocompatibility. In addition, the CRP hydrogels can form quickly (a few minutes) by mixing three components at human body temperature, showing high potential as a biomimetic matrix for in situ repair of SCI. The in vitro studies demonstrate that the CRP hydrogels can not only promote the proliferation and migration of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells but also induce the proliferation and differentiation of neural stem cells (NSCs) into neurons. Meanwhile, the hydrogels reveal the efficiency of protecting neurons and promoting axonal growth. Furthermore, the in vivo tests prove that the CRP hydrogels can reduce post‐SCI inflammatory responses, inhibit reactive astrocyte over‐proliferation, and promote the migration, proliferation, and differentiation of endogenous NSCs, which agree well with the in vitro results. The pre‐clinical test demonstrates that the CRP hydrogels restore the motor function in completely transected spinal cord rats, and the SCI repair mechanism may involve the activation of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway. It is believed that the strategies shown in this work will be valuable for the design and synthesis of novel hydrogels for biomedical and tissue engineering applications.
Hot Deformation Behavior and Microstructure Evolution of the Maraging Stainless Steel
Authors: Wei Hao , Zhang Weina , Zhang Huimin , Chen Zejin , Yan Xinyue , Cao Guangming
Published: November 2024

Hot deformation behavior of the maraging stainless steel is studied in temperature range from 900 to 1150 °C and strain rate from 0.1 to 10 s−1. When the deformation temperature is 900−950 °C, the abnormal stress increase is observed at the end of the flow curves. Transmission electron micrographs reveal that the Laves phase at the interface between prior austenitic (γ) and high‐temperature ferrite (δ) impedes hot deformation. The microstructure analysis shows that the dynamic recrystallization (DRX) mechanism of γ and δ is discontinuous DRX and continuous DRX, respectively. When the specimens are deformed at 950 °C, the extent of DRX at a strain rate of 5 s−1 is higher than at 0.1 s−1. This anomaly is due to adiabatic heating causing the actual deformation temperature at high strain rate () to be higher than at low , indicating that DRX is more influenced by temperature compared to . The influences of adiabatic heating and friction are corrected. Strain‐dependent constitutive equation is developed based on the revised flow curves, yielding an average absolute relative error of 4.69% and a correlation coefficient of 0.99; the prediction accuracy exceeds 90% when the relative error is within 10%.
Characterization of a new barley greenbug resistance gene Rsg4 in the Chinese landrace CI 2458
Authors: Xu Xiangyang , Mornhinweg Dolores , Bai Guihua , Li Genqiao , Bian Ruolin , Bernardo Amy
Published: November 2024

Barley (Hordeum vulgare) is a climate‐resilient crop widely cultivated in both highly productive and suboptimal agricultural systems, and its ability to adapt to multiple biotic and abiotic stresses has contributed significantly to food security. Greenbug is a destructive insect pest for global barley production, and new greenbug resistance genes are needed to overcome the challenges posed by diverse greenbug biotypes in fields. CI 2458 is a Chinese landrace exhibiting a unique resistance profile to a set of 14 greenbug biotypes, which suggests the presence of a new greenbug resistance gene in CI 2458. A recombinant inbred line population from the cross Weskan × CI 2458 was developed, evaluated for responses to greenbug biotype F, and genotyped using single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers generated by genotyping‐by‐sequencing. Linkage analysis revealed a single gene, designated Rsg4, conditioning greenbug resistance in CI 2458. Rsg4 was delimited to a 1.14 Mb interval between SNP markers S3H_666512114 and S3H_667651446 in the terminal region of chromosome arm 3HL, with genetic distances of 1.2 cM proximal to S3H_667651446 and 1.1 cM distal to S3H_666512114. Allelism tests confirmed that Rsg4 is a new greenbug resistance gene independent of Rsg1 and Rsg3, which reside in the same chromosome arm. Rsg4 differs from Rsg1 alleles and Rsg3 in its resistance to greenbug biotype TX1, one of the most widely virulent biotypes. The introgression of Rsg4 into locally adapted barley cultivars is of agronomic importance, and kompetitive allele‐specific polymerase chain reaction (KASP) markers flanking Rsg4, KASP‐Rsg336‐1 and KASP‐Rsg336‐2, enable rapid pyramiding of Rsg4 with other resistance genes to develop durable greenbug‐resistant cultivars.
Cement Mortars with Incorporation of Foundry Industry Wastes: Physical, Mechanical and Durability Behavior
Authors: Cunha Sandra , Silva Raphael , Aguiar José
Published: November 2024

Planet Earth is facing real challenges that require urgent and significant measures. It is necessary to give a new direction to the construction sector, making it essential to change the way that raw material is selected, giving preference to industrial by-products. The utilization of industrial wastes allows minimize the high consumption of natural raw materials, energy consumption and waste deposition in landfills. It is important to note that the use of waste in the construction industry is a great opportunity, however, the heterogeneity of these materials and sometimes their contamination can compromise the durability. The lost-wax process in foundry industry is currently an expanding area, so more and more manufacturing industries have serious problems related to their waste management. During its production process, wastes of ceramic mold shells and paraffinic wax are generated and until now any practical application is known. The main objective of this study was the correlation between the physical, mechanical behavior and durability of cement mortars with incorporation of paraffin wax and ceramic mold shells. The main results revealed a decrease in water absorption, flexural strength, and compressive strength of the mortars, along with a slight increase in degradation during freeze-thaw cycles. Additionally, a correlation was observed between the physical, mechanical performance, and durability of the mortars. This included factors such as water absorption through immersion and capillarity, as well as the relationship between compressive strength and the mass loss suffered during freeze-thaw tests.
Recycled Brick Fines for New Alkali Activated Binder
Authors: Grellier Adèle , Bulteel David , Courard Luc
Published: November 2024

The construction industry today produces huge quantities of wastes, especially during the deconstruction and demolition of buildings. Ceramics and bricks represent a significant part of this inert waste in Belgium and Northern France. The recycling of bricks is already carried out in the form of aggregates used in road embankments. But this constitutes what is called a “downcycling” operation. The investigated way is here a valorization with higher added value in alkali-activated materials through substitution of blast furnace slag (GGBFS) by brick fines with a grain size D50 = 20 µm. It is shown that brick fines can be a precursor equivalent to GGBFS and thus lead to mechanical performances equivalent to control even up to 50% substitution rate in brick fines. Under certain conditions of alkali-activated solution concentration, the addition of 30% brick fines can greatly improve workability time. But this leads to a decrease in mechanical performances, which is still in accordance with specific construction needs.
Recycled Cement Concrete as an Eco-Friendly Aggregate in Polymer Composite – Application Feasibility
Authors: Kępniak Maja
Published: November 2024

Over the years, the development of sustainable and ecofriendly concrete has been found in the reuse of construction and demolition materials. One such waste is recycled aggregate from cement concrete structure demolition process. This paper analyzes the effect of substitution of natural stone aggregate with recycled aggregate in polymer composites. An experimental plan for the mixtures was prepared. Technological characteristics (setting course, consistency) and strength characteristics (flexural strength and compressive strength) were analyzed. The obtained results were statistically analyzed. A generalized utility function has been established. Based on it, the maximum dosage of recycled aggregate was determined without significant deterioration of technological and strength characteristics. The average compressive strength results obtained were in the range of 88.5 to 96.5 MPa. The highest compressive strength value (96.5 MPa) was obtained for the samples with the composition with the highest proportion of recycled aggregate.
Geopolymer Composites with Recycled Binders
Authors: Kalinowska-Wichrowska Katarzyna , Pawluczuk Edyta , Kosior-Kazberuk Marta , Chyliński Filip , Barriguete Alejandra Vidales , Ramirez Carolina Pina
Published: November 2024

The application of geopolymers as an alternative to cement concretes is becoming increasingly important. The significant advantage of this composites is that, the basic ingredient is not a cement, but pozzolans such as waste materials—fly ash, fly ash slag mix, red ceramic fines, recycling cement mortar—which makes building materials more environmentally friendly. Currently the availability of blast furnace slag and high-quality fly ash is limited in Europe. At the same time, the ways for management of the concrete rubble and the construction waste are being sought, because the volume of waste materials is constantly increasing.

Therefore, the application of secondary binders extracted from the recycling of various construction waste (recycled cement mortar, red ceramic fines, fly ash-slag mix) in geopolymers was proposed. The recycled binders were introduced into geopolymer composites as a replacement of 25% by mass of primary binder (fly ash) and the 65, 75 and 85ºC was the curing temperature. The process of manufacturing the recycled binders has been described and basic parameters of new binders. The tests of physical and mechanical properties of the composites such as compressive strength, flexural strength, volume density in dry state and saturated one and water absorption were performed. The microstructure of geopolymers was examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results obtained show that recycled binders obtained from the treatment of construction waste could be a valuable component of geopolymers.
Towards the Use of Waste Limestone Powder as a Filler for Epoxy Coatings in Floors: Research on Mechanical Properties
Authors: Chowaniec-Michalak Agnieszka , Czarnecki Sławomir , Sadowski Łukasz
Published: November 2024

This paper presents an analysis of the mechanical properties of modified epoxy coatings used as epoxy floors. Waste mineral powder (limestone powder) was used as filler for the epoxy coating. Epoxy resin mixtures were made with waste limestone powder in amounts ranging from 0% to 29% of the mixture mass. Then, four mechanical properties were tested: hardness with the Shore D durometer, tensile and flexural strength with a standard testing machine, and pull-off strength by the pull-off method. The use of waste limestone powder as filler for epoxy coatings resulted in an improvement in hardness by 5%, does not significantly change the pull-off strength, but a deterioration of tensile strength by 6–27% and flexural strength by 18–38%. However, the modified epoxy coating still meets the standard requirements for epoxy floors. Therefore, waste limestone powder can be used in practice as filler for epoxy floor coatings. This solution allows the recycling of mineral powders, reduces the consumption of harmful epoxy resin and lowers the cost of the coating.
The Use of Polymer Concrete as a Cost-Effective and Durable Alternative for Rapid Pothole Repair in Asphalt Surfaces
Authors: van Zyl Frans Willem , Kruger Deon
Published: November 2024

The paper describes an investigating into the application of a polymer concrete using a recyclable material such as polypropylene and chopped tire rubber as aggregate material to provide a durable and cost-effective alternative to the existing cold mix asphalt (CMA) pothole repair material. Three different aggregate mix designs, including traditional crusher- sand and -stone, rubber crumbs, and plastic chips, in combination with Vinyl Ester, Polyester, Polyurethane and Furan resin were combined to create 12 possible polymer concrete mixes to be used as a rapid pothole repair material. These polymer concrete mix designs were tested for common properties and characteristics typically experienced on road surfaces. These include characteristics such as compressive strength, flexural strength, and abrasion resistance. All results obtained from the various tests performed indicated that the polymer concrete mix designs exhibit enhanced physical properties compared with CMA and would thereby increase the durability and lifespan of repaired potholes when using this material.
Serviceability Limit State of Fiber Reinforced Concrete Beams with BFPB Bars and Stirrups
Authors: Krassowska Julita , Kosior-Kazberuk Marta
Published: November 2024

The work analyzes the serviceability ultimate limit state of 4.5 m long fiber-reinforced concrete beams with basalt bars and stirrups (BFRP). On the basis of previous tests, deformations in beams with composite reinforcement are above acceptable values. Beams were made of concrete with basalt fibers to improve deformability, cracks resistance and deflection. The tests showed that the load capacity of beams reinforced with BFRP bars was lower than that of beams with steel reinforcement, resulting from different failure mechanisms of both beams. The failure of beams with BFRP reinforcement was rapid. Deformations in the concrete were reduced by using basalt fibers in the concrete. Increasing the stiffness of the structure with reinforcement with BFRP bars and stirrups using concrete with basalt fibers can meet the SLS requirements for limiting the deflection and cracking of concrete elements reinforced with them.
Fast Tannic Acid Surface Modification for Improving PE Fiber-Cement Matrix Bonding Performances
Authors: Rezaie Ali Bashiri , Liebscher Marco , Mohammadi Mahsa , Mechtcherine Viktor
Published: November 2024

In cementitious composites, an application of various fibers can contribute to endow a controlled crack propagation, moderated brittle failure, superior tensile strength and higher energy absorption capacity. Fiber-matrix bonding properties play a key role in fiber strengthening efficiency and the final mechanical performances of the reinforced matrices. This is true specifically for high-performance polyethylene (PE) fibers which yield very high tensile strength and modulus of elasticity, but do not interact properly with cementitious matrix due to their inert hydrophobic surface lacking functional groups.

In the presented work, PE fibers are functionalized by using fast tannic acid modification technique to enhance the bonding properties between a cementitious matrix and the fibers. Environmental scanning electron microscopy (ESEM) confirmed the presence of polymer coating layers on the fiber surfaces. Micromechanical tests indicated that the modified fibers considerably improved the maximum fiber pullout force, interfacial shear strength and pullout work in comparison with the reference fibers. This enhancement in bonding properties could be traced back to the created functional layer on the PE surface triggering a better interaction with cement hydrates as well as a rougher surface enhancing fiber-matrix mechanical interlocking at interfaces. Overall, the introduced approach can be applied for different fibers to promote their bonding behavior with cementitious matrices resulting in an enhanced fiber reinforcing effect in composites.
Physical and Mechanical Characterization of Cement Boards with Incorporation of Free Phase Change Materials
Authors: Cunha Sandra , Aguiar Ingried , Aguiar José
Published: November 2024

Currently it is necessary to give a new direction to the construction sector, making it essential to change the way that buildings are constructed and rehabilitated, with the aim of obtaining a construction with greater sustainability value. To minimize energy consumption, it is important to take advantage of renewable energy sources like solar power. Phase change materials (PCM) can help reduce building energy consumption due to their energy storage capacity. PCM has been studied in different solutions for walls, ceilings, and floors, essentially using encapsulation techniques. The use of PCM in building materials has social, environmental, and economic benefits, including increased thermal comfort, decreased energy consumption from non-renewable sources, and reduced air conditioning needs and costs. The development of cement boards incorporating PCM brings a new option for the thermal improvement of buildings, which can be used in new buildings and rehabilitation operations. The main objective of this study was the development of cement boards with the incorporation of pure and free PCM, through direct incorporation, consisting of a simple, low-cost, and very promising incorporation technique. The results showed that the technique was easy to use in manufacturing cement boards for interior coatings of building walls and ceilings. It was also possible to observe a decrease in the water/cement ratio with the incorporation of PCM and a consequent decrease in the porosity, which resulted in a slight reduction in its mechanical strengths, without ever compromising the necessary performance for its function.
Novel Sustainable Polymer-Based Phase Change Materials (PCMs) for Mortars Based on Different Binders for the Energy Efficiency of Buildings Located in Different Climatic Regions
Authors: Sarcinella Antonella , de Aguiar José Luís Barroso , Cunha Sandra , Frigione Mariaenrica
Published: November 2024

A possible solution to reduce the consumption of fossil fuel and energy demand to power heating and cooling devices is represented by Phase Change Materials (PCMs). They can absorb, store and release energy according to their physical state that changes with the environmental temperature. In this work, novel eco-sustainable PCMs were developed through the form-stable method. Through this process, it was possible to create composite PCMs consisting of a natural inert matrix (i.e., a very porous stone obtained from processing waste) and an eco-friendly polymer, i.e., Poly-Ethylene Glycol (PEG). The composite PCMs were used to replace aggregates in mortars based on different binders (i.e., hydraulic lime, and cement). A complete characterization was performed on the new PCMs assessing their thermal stability and thermal efficiency. The study of the properties of the PCM-based mortars, in their fresh and hardened states, allowed to identify those with suitable mechanical properties. These latter were, then, subjected to a further investigation to assess their thermal behavior in response to different climatic loads. Encouraging results were achieved that allowed to establish the effectiveness of the novel PCMs in thermo-regulating an indoor environment.
The Retrospection of Development of NCM in the Primary grades： A Case Study from Evidence-Based Perspective
Authors: Liu Qimeng , Dong Yaoyao , Xie Zhiyong , Liu Jian
Published: November 2024

The calling for transforming textbook development into evidence-based field have been increasingly concerned, while the method and path of how to develop evidence-based textbook still remain. New Century Mathematics (NCM) as one of the textbooks with largest market share and influence, its’ development history has witnessed the trajectory of mathematics curriculum reform in China in the last 40 years. This study aimed to retrospect the process of NCM textbook development in primary grades from an evidence-based perspective. Historical research design was employed to explore in what way and how does NCM get to evidence-based textbook development. Qualitative research methodology of the semi-structure interview, focus group interviews, and documentary research have been applied to collect data. The result indicated that in the process of getting to evidence-based textbook development, there are three key features should be mentioned, including Situation + question string establishes the textbook style; Form a complete chain of evidence from fragmented to systematic; Achieving learning-centeredness with the Five Unifications. There were six steps which contained several rounds of data collection. They are preliminary practical investigation, fundamental research, systematic revision, learning and teaching trail, review and revision, and typography and submission for validation. It manifests how does NCM carry out evidence-based textbook. By drawing on the retrospection of development of NCM textbook, the study provides a critical analysis of contemporary methods and issues for mathematics textbook development in China, and puts forwards evidence-based paradigm of textbook development which may provide an inspiration for the whole mathematics textbook research field.
A Design Framework for Project-Based Learning Textbook in Primary Mathematics
Authors: Dong Yaoyao , Liu Qimeng , Zhang Qinqiong , Liu Jian
Published: November 2024

Project-based learning (PBL) is an effective approach to develop students’ twenty-first century core literacy. The development of PBL textbooks in mathematics can contribute to the implementation of PBL and the cultivation of students’ mathematical literacy, thereby promoting the reform of classroom instruction. Relying on the New Century Mathematics (NCM) that is one of the mainstream textbooks in China, this study takes the lead in integrating mathematics PBL into the national curriculum. It combines literature analysis and expert argumentation, focusing on five key processes of mathematics PBL (include Create the real-life context; propose and split a driving task; design and implement subtasks; display and exchange the product; reflection and revision) and its design principles, thus forming a design framework, which can provide inspiration for the development of textbook materials and teaching of mathematics PBL.
Problem-Posing: An Inclusive Activity for Improving Teaching and Learning of Mathematics at the University Level
Authors: Radmehr Farzad
Published: November 2024

Problem posing (PP) could be defined in mathematics as “the process by which, on the basis of mathematical experience, students construct personal interpretations of concrete situations and formulate them as meaningful mathematical problems” (Stoyanova and Ellerton in Proceedings of the 19th annual conference of the Technology in Mathematics Education, 1996, p. 1). The PP activities have been used in research and practice at school mathematics and teacher education programs in the past few decades. However, less attention has been paid to this type of activity at the university level to improve mathematics teaching and learning.
A Comparative U.S.-China Study of Quality Criteria for Junior High School Mathematics Instructional Materials
Authors: Chen Qiumei , Kong Fanzhe
Published: November 2024

In the context of the continuous deepening of curriculum reform and the urgent need to improve the current situation of textbook evaluation, China has paid more and more attention to the quality evaluation of instructional materials. This study takes the U.S. Quality Instructional Materials Tool and the Chinese Compulsory Education Textbook Review Tool as comparative objects, and systematically compares the quality criteria of junior high school mathematics instructional materials from the perspectives of evaluation bases, contents, procedures and methods, with a view to shedding light and making reference to the construction of quality criteria of junior high school mathematics instructional materials in China.
An Investigation of the Use of Technology in Two U.S. Middle School E-Textbooks
Authors: Davis Jon D. , Witt Nicholas E.
Published: November 2024

This study examines a unit involving ratios appearing in the Desmos and Illustrative Mathematics (IM) e-textbooks at grade 6 for the presence of technology tasks and how technology is used in those units. Specifically, we build on a framework used by Sherman and Cayton (2015) to examine the role of mathematical action technology (MAT) as amplifier or reorganizer to solve individual problems or examine relationships. We found that MAT was typically used as a moderate level amplifier in both textbook units. MAT in the Desmos unit was not designed to be used to solve more than one specific problem while MAT in the IM unit did not include multiple representations. Neither e-textbook unit asked students to use MAT to develop and test conjectures.
On the Design and Development of Digital Mathematics Textbooks: Findings from a Systematic Review
Authors: Fan Lianghuo , Li Na , Zhu Fangchun , Li Shuhui
Published: November 2024

This paper presents a systematic survey of research on digital mathematics textbooks (DMTs), with a particular focus on the design and development of DMTs. A total of 65 studies on DMTs were identified and collected from different data sources including journal articles, dissertations and theses, conference proceedings and research reports over the last three decades, and among them, about one third focused on the design and development of DMTs. The results show that the forms of DMTs have gradually moved from CD-based to web-based, tablet-based, and combined-platform-based, which often incorporate multi-media, multi-representation, feedback and evaluations, interactives, and hyperlinks features. Most of them were on one lesson/chapter, with a limited and narrow scope of mathematics content. There is a need for more collaborations between teachers, researchers, textbook designers, and IT developers in the design and development of DMTs. The paper concludes with suggestions for directions for future research.
A Comparative Analysis of the Integration of Mathematics and Art in Chinese and Singaporean Secondary School Mathenatics Textbooks
Authors: Huang Yan , Peng Aihui
Published: November 2024

This comparative study aims to understand the integrative phenomenon between mathematics and art in Chinese and Singaporean secondary school mathematics textbooks. The art-mathematics relationship in the textbooks was analyzed from six dimensions: (1) art to provide context; (2) art in calculation and measurement; (3) art to master concepts; (4) art to use technological resources; (5) mathematical analysis of art; and (6) creating art with mathematics. It was found that the degree of integration of art and mathematics in the textbooks was not high, which mainly focused on mastering concepts, providing context and artistic creation, while the degree of integration in using technological resources and artistic analysis that involving mathematical creativity and critical thinking needed to be enhanced.
The Complexity of Mathematical Expressions in Mathematics Textbooks
Authors: Zhao Si , Guo Yufeng
Published: November 2024

Using a binary-lambda-calculus based calculation method for complexity, we analyze and discuss the mathematical expressions and their complexity in two editions of the Chinese high school mathematics textbooks published by the People's Education Press. There is no statistically significant difference in the complexity of mathematical expressions between the two editions, and the differences are mainly in the interpretation of conceptual knowledge using mathematical expressions, as well as in the types of examples and their solution processes. Among them, the new edition uses changes of mathematical expressions to change the type of examples without increasing the complexity.
A Comparative Study on the Content of “Number and Algebra” in Chinese and British Junior Middle School Mathematics Textbooks
Authors: Wu Libao , Xia Macheng , Du Qing , Wang Guangming
Published: November 2024

The content of “Number and Algebra” in Chinese and British junior middle school mathematics textbooks has been studied in terms of overall arrangement and content difficulty based on the framework of the study, and the following suggestions for the compilation of mathematics textbooks in China through the comparative study have been given: focus on the spiral of knowledge and show the system of mathematics; set up a variety of problem situations and improve the quality of illustration and narration; optimize the background of examples and exercises, and pay attention to quantity and stratification; emphasize comprehension and expression, and give full play to the function of “reading, doing and learning”.
Evolution and Prospect of the Textbook Policy for Elementary Education of China in the Past Seven Decades
Authors: Ye Xiaoyan , Zhu Fang , Kong Fanzhe
Published: November 2024

Textbooks play a pivotal role in school education, and textbook policies provide the “regulatory” basis for the development and publication of textbooks. In this study, a total of 81 textbook policies were searched and analyzed using the NVivo analysis tool, taking textbook policies in China from 1949 to 2021 as the object of study. By collecting, organizing, classifying, and analyzing the relevant literature, we divided the evolution into four stages by key points, and reviewed the evolution of textbook policies in China's elementary education stage, with the aim of exploring the laws of the development of China's textbook policies, and hoping to provide direct or indirect reference suggestions and materials for the progress of China's textbooks, the development of policies, and the research of related scholars.
The Centennial Changes of the Radian System in Chinese Mathematics Textbooks
Authors: Zhang Lulu , Dai Qin
Published: November 2024

As one of the two major units of measuring angles in trigonometric functions, the radian system has irreplaceable advantages and functions, and is widely used in mathematics and other scientific fields. This paper summarizes the history of the radian system for more than 300 years, and through the changes of the radian system in Chinese textbooks for more than 120 years from the end of the Qing Dynasty to the present, it is concluded that the radian system can make mathematical thinking economical and show the beauty of mathematics. At the same time, I give advice: I. Constantly improve the content setting of the radian system in the textbook; II. Further improve the teaching method of the radian system.
Mathematics Teachers’ Perspectives on Textbooks’ Design in Multiplication Tables
Authors: Zhao Xiaoyan , Dong Lianchun , Qiu Yue , Li Tiantian
Published: November 2024

The introduction of the multiplication tables (or nine-times table) is of significance to children’s learning of basic multiplication fact. To fulfil the potential of multiplication tables in mathematics teaching and learning, different mathematics textbooks adopt different designs, presenting distinct features regarding the order of introducing multiplication tables, classroom activities and tasks for building connections, etc. This study collected interview data from 18 primary school teachers with different teaching experience, and aimed to reveal teachers’ viewpoints regarding the differences in textbooks’ design in multiplication tables and how they make impacts on the teaching and learning of multiplication at classroom level.
Microarray analysis of gene expression in lung tissues of indium-exposed rats: possible roles of S100 proteins in lung diseases
Authors: Hiraku Yusuke , Tanaka Akiyo , Yamamoto Masato , Nakatani Minori , Kobayashi Mayu , Kimura Eiki , Ahmed Sharif , Murata Mariko
Published: November 2024

Indium compounds are used in manufacturing displays of mobile phones and televisions. These compounds cause interstitial pneumonia in workers and lung cancer in animals, but their precise mechanisms are unclear. In this study, we performed microarray analysis of gene expression in lung tissues of indium-exposed rats. Male Wistar rats (8-week-old) were exposed to indium oxide (In2O3, mean particle diameter 0.14 μm) and indium-tin oxide (ITO, mean particle diameter 0.95 μm) by intratracheal instillation (10 mg indium/kg body weight/instillation) twice a week and five times in total. These rats were sacrificed immediately, 3 weeks and 12 weeks after the last instillation. Hematoxylin and eosin and Masson’s trichrome staining showed that indium compounds induced infiltration of neutrophils and macrophages into alveolar space, and fibrosis around bronchial epithelium and in alveolar wall. Microarray analysis revealed that In2O3 and ITO significantly upregulated 233 and 676 genes at 12 weeks, respectively (> twofold, p < 0.05 by ANOVA + Tukey’s test). In2O3 and ITO largely upregulated Lcn2 (lipocalin-2) (49.4- and 91.8-fold), S100a9 (30.2- and 46.5-fold) and S100a8 (11.5- and 22.0-fold), respectively. Metascape database predicted that these genes participate in immunomodulatory and inflammatory responses. Real-time PCR confirmed that these genes were upregulated by indium compounds throughout the experiments. In Western blotting, S100A9 expression was significantly increased by indium exposure, whereas LCN2 expression was only slightly increased. Fluorescent immunohistochemistry revealed that S100A9 and S100A8 were expressed in alveolar epithelial cells and neutrophils in indium-exposed rats. These results suggest that S100 proteins contribute to indium-induced lung diseases via neutrophil-mediated inflammatory responses.
WO3 thin films grown on Si substrates: potential high Tc ferromagnetic semiconductors
Authors: Pham Nguyen Sy , Hong Nguyen Hoa
Published: November 2024

Well-defined ferromagnetism (FM) with a very high Tc of about 800 K was found in laser-ablated WO3 films grown on Si wafer substrates. It seems that the observed magnetism is surface related, and oxygen vacancies might play an important role in inducing FM into these oxide semiconductors. The very high Tc FM is observed for the first time in nanosized-WO3, indicating a great potential for spintronic applications.
Konzept der „liquid biopsy“ in der Versorgung maligner Augentumoren
Authors: Coupland Sarah E. , Sonntag Svenja R. , Heimann Heinrich , Grisanti Salvatore
Published: November 2024

Die „liquid biopsy“ ist eine hochmoderne Technik, bei der nichtsolides biologisches Gewebe, v. a. Blut, aber auch okuläre Flüssigkeiten, auf das Vorhandensein von Krebszellen oder Fragmente von Tumor-DNA (Desoxyribonukleinsäure) untersucht wird. Im Gegensatz zu herkömmlichen Biopsien ist die „liquid biopsy“ in der Regel minimal-invasiv und kann häufiger durchgeführt werden, was eine kontinuierliche Überwachung des Krankheitsverlaufs und der Wirksamkeit der Behandlung ermöglicht. In diesem Beitrag (und der dazugehörigen Artikelserie) werden die wichtigsten Entwicklungen bei der „liquid biopsy“ beschrieben, zu denen folgende Analysen gehören: zirkulierende Tumor-DNA (ctDNA), zirkulierende Tumorzellen (CTCs) sowie exosomale RNA- und Proteinbiomarker. Techniken wie die digitale Tröpfchen-PCR (Polymerasekettenreaktion) und die Next-Generation-Sequenzierung(NGS)-Analyse haben es möglich gemacht, selbst sehr geringe Mengen an ctDNA nachzuweisen, was für die Krebsfrüherkennung und die Überwachung von minimalen Resterkrankungen entscheidend ist. Die Erkennung seltener CTCs wurde durch Techniken wie mikrofluidische Geräte und immunmagnetische Separation verbessert. Multi-Omic-Ansätze, bei denen exosomale RNA-, Protein- und ctDNA-Analysen kombiniert werden, tragen dazu bei, ein umfassenderes Bild der Tumorbiologie zu erstellen, was zu besseren Diagnose- und Prognoseinstrumenten führen und bei der Vorhersage von Therapieansprechen und -resistenz helfen könnte. Zu den Herausforderungen der „liquid biopsy“, die im folgenden Artikel noch näher beleuchtet werden, gehören: a) Standardisierung, b) Kosten und Zugänglichkeit, c) Validierung und klinischer Nutzen. Die „liquid biopsy“ ist dennoch ein vielversprechender Ansatz für die Anwendung der okulären Präzisionsonkologie, und die laufende Forschung wird ihre Anwendungsmöglichkeiten in den kommenden Jahren wahrscheinlich erweitern und ihre Effektivität verbessern.
Effects of trabeculectomy on the postoperative central visual field as revealed by refraction values
Authors: Nakajima Kosuke , Sakata Rei , Shirato Shiroaki , Aihara Makoto
Published: November 2024

Purpose

To evaluate the effects of trabeculectomy on the rate of deterioration of the central visual field (VF) in patients with normal-tension glaucoma (NTG), as revealed by refraction values.

Study design

Retrospective case series.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 28 eyes, including 12 high myopic (spherical equivalent [SE] < ˗ 6 diopters without pathological myopia) and 16 non-high myopic (SE ≥ – 6 diopters) eyes. The rate of VF deterioration (dB/year) was determined using linear regression analysis of 30 -2 and 10 -2 VF tests. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to compare deterioration rates between groups. To assess the influence of initial post-surgery effects, statistical analyses were conducted with and without data from the initial postoperative VF exam.

Results

Trabeculectomy significantly reduced intraocular pressure (IOP) in myopic (14.1 to 9.0 mmHg, P ≤ 0.01) and non-myopic (13.4 to 9.5 mmHg, P ≤ 0.01) eyes. Postoperatively, the 10-2 VF deterioration rate significantly decreased in myopic (˗ 1.31 to ˗ 0.55 dB/year, P = 0.01) and non-myopic (– 0.80 to – 0.30 dB/year, P = 0.03) eyes. Excluding the first postoperative VF exam, the deterioration rates were – 0.51 ± 0.24 dB/year and – 0.54 ± 0.89 dB/year, respectively, indicating a minor impact on progression assessment.

Conclusions

Trabeculectomy may mitigate central VF deterioration in myopic NTG patients, emphasizing the potential benefits of timely surgical intervention. Further studies are needed to determine the optimal timing for surgery.
Transformational leadership for sustainable productivity in higher education institutions of Cameroon
Authors: Etomes Sophie Ekume , Endeley Margaret Nalova , Aluko Folake Ruth , Molua Ernest L.
Published: November 2024

This study investigates the need for transformational leadership in the sustainable development of the productivity in higher education institutions (HEIs) in Cameroon. While institutions always request additional funding, the need for effective allocation and utilization of existing resources is relevant for sustainability. Participants for this study included teachers from state and private HEIs in Cameroon. Correlation and regression models were used to assess the impact of transformational leadership on sustainable productivity grounded in Michael Fullan’s (2011) six secrets of educational change theory. A positive and significant relationship was observed between transformational leadership and the productivity of HEIs. While the practice of transformational leadership was observed more in state-owned HEIs, the impact was more in private than in state HEIs. The mean value for intellectual stimulation for sustainable productivity of higher institutes of learning is higher for the private as compared to that of state institutions showing that intellectual stimulation is more used in private HEIs to improve their productivity than in state-owned HEIs in Cameroon. While the correlational analysis showed that intellectual stimulation has the strongest correlate effect on sustainable productivity, the regression analysis showed that inspirational motivation has more added value to productivity. Based on these findings, we recommend a leadership model for sustaining organizational productivity, where the essence of the effective practice of transformational leadership is collaboration, especially in the change process.
A Comprehensive Review of Mobile Robot Navigation Using Deep Reinforcement Learning Algorithms in Crowded Environments
Authors: Le Hoangcong , Saeedvand Saeed , Hsu Chen-Chien
Published: November 2024

Navigation is a crucial challenge for mobile robots. Currently, deep reinforcement learning has attracted considerable attention and has witnessed substantial development owing to its robust performance and learning capabilities in real-world scenarios. Scientists leverage the advantages of deep neural networks, such as long short-term memory, recurrent neural networks, and convolutional neural networks, to integrate them into mobile robot navigation based on deep reinforcement learning. This integration aims to enhance the robot's motion control performance in both static and dynamic environments. This paper illustrates a comprehensive survey of deep reinforcement learning methods applied to mobile robot navigation systems in crowded environments, exploring various navigation frameworks based on deep reinforcement learning and their benefits over traditional simultaneous localization and mapping-based frameworks. Subsequently, we comprehensively compare and analyze the relationships and differences among three types of navigation: autonomous-based navigation, navigation based on simultaneous localization and mapping, and planning-based navigation. Moreover, the crowded environment includes static, dynamic, and a combination of obstacles in different typical application scenarios. Finally, we offer insights into the evolution of navigation based on deep reinforcement learning, addressing the problems and providing potential solutions associated with this emerging field.
Theoretical and experimental study on efficient thorium removal from aquatic environment using phosphate-modified graphene oxide polymeric beads
Authors: Saha Sudeshna , Basu Hirakendu , Choudhury Niharendu , Pimple M. V.
Published: November 2024

Thorium is an element of immense importance in nuclear industry due to lower environmental impact compared to fossil fuels and conventional nuclear power. In the present study, highly selective adsorption of Th4+ on phosphate modified graphene oxide polymeric beads was investigated. The interaction of –PO4, –OH and –O– functional groups of graphene oxide with thorium ion was thoroughly investigated using Density Functional Theory. The adsorption induced density difference was utilized to investigate the bonding characteristics. The affinity of the Th4+ ions was obtained as –PO4 > –OH > –O– group of the phosphate modified graphene oxide. Phosphate modified Graphene oxide embedded in Calcium alginate matrix was characterized using ATR-FTIR, XRD, SEM and Raman spectroscopy. Highly efficient (> 93%) uptake of thorium at pH 5 with fast rate of sorption (< 5 min) was observed in the batch sorption studies.
Comparison Between Prone SPECT-Based Semi-Quantitative Parameters and MBI-Based Semi-Quantitative Parameters in Patients with Locally Advanced Breast Cancer
Authors: van de Burgt Alina , van Velden Floris H. P. , Corion Christinne L. S. , Collarino Angela , Olmos Renato A Valdés , Smit Frits , de Geus-Oei Lioe-Fee , Arias-Bouda Lenka M. Pereira
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study evaluates the semi-quantitative single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) parameters of prone SPECT using [99mTc]Tc-sestamibi and compares them with Molecular Breast Imaging (MBI)-derived semi-quantitative parameters for the potential use of response prediction in women with locally advanced breast cancer (LABC).

Procedures

Patients with proven LABC with a tumor ≥ 2 cm on mammography and an indication for MBI using [99mTc]Tc-sestamibi were prospectively enrolled. All patients underwent a prone SPECT/CT at 5 min (early exam) and an additional scan at 90 min (delayed exam) after injection of 600 MBq [99mTc]Tc-sestamibi to compose wash-out rates (WOR). All patients underwent MBI after early SPECT/CT. Volumes of interest of the primary tumor were drawn semi-automatically on early and delayed SPECT images. Semi-quantitative analysis included maximum and mean standardized uptake values (SUVmax, SUVmean,), functional tumor volume (FTVSPECT), total lesion mitochondrial uptake (TLMU), tumor-to-background ratios (TBRmax and TBRmean), WOR and coefficient of variation (COVSPECT). Subsequently, the FTVSPECT, TBRSPECT and COVSPECT were compared to FTVMBI, TBRMBI and COVMBI.

Results

Eighteen patients were included. Early SUVmax, and TBRmax showed significantly higher interquartile range (IQR) compared to SUVmean and TBRmean, respectively 2.22 (2.33) g/mL, 6.86 (8.69), 1.29 (1.39) g/mL and 3.99 (5.07) (median (IQR), p < 0.05). WOR showed a large IQR (62.28), indicating that there is WOR variation among the LABC patients. FTV showed no difference between MBI and early SPECT semi-quantitative parameter (p = 0.46).

Conclusions

In LABC patients it is feasible to obtain semi-quantitative parameters from prone SPECT/CT. The FTV derived from early prone SPECT/CT is comparable with MBI-based FTV. Studies with comprehensive clinical parameters are needed to establish the clinical relevance of these semi-quantitative parameters, including WOR, for response prediction before its use in clinical routine.