bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association Between Bone Maturation, Menstrual Cycle, Hypermobility, Scoliosis, and Low Back Pain in Pre-Professional Female Adolescent Dancers
Authors: Everaert K , Fierens B , Steinberg N , Steinberg N , Steinberg N , Balagué F , Gielen P , Gielen J , van Breda E , Roussel N
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND: Many adult dancers suffer from low back pain (LBP), which interferes with their movement strategies. A group that merits further attention are adolescent dancers as high levels of physical activity are associated with a higher risk to develop LBP. OBJECTIVE: The aims of
this cross-sectional study were (i) to investigate if delayed bone maturation and aberrant menstrual cycle were present in pre-professional female adolescent dancers and (ii) whether these ailments or other physical impairments could be related to LBP. OUTCOME MEASURES: Bone maturation, menstrual
cycle, hypermobility, scoliosis, and LBP. METHODS: Eligible female dancers were recruited among dancers aged 14–18 yrs in a secondary school specialized in dance. One-way ANOVA was used for the variables to determine significant differences between groups and the repeated measures ANOVA
test was used to determine the significant differences within groups. Significance level was determined at 0.05. RESULTS: Fifteen out of 50 dancers reported a history of LBP. Significant differences were observed between calendar age and skeletal age in adolescent dancers (p<0.05). A considerable
proportion of dancers showed delayed bone maturation (32%) or an aberrant menstrual cycle (53%), but this was not related to LBP (p>0.05). Scoliosis and generalized joint hypermobility were also not related to LBP (p>0.05). However, dancers with a history of LBP started dancing 2 years
earlier (p<0.01), had significantly less hip internal rotation (p<0.05), and showed asymmetrical hip ROM (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: Based on the results of current study, delayed bone maturation and menstrual cycle disorders are common in pre-professional female dancers, but this was not
related to LBP. Additionally, out of 27 variables, only starting dance activities under age 6 years old, showing hip asymmetry, and showing less internal hip rotation may be contributing factors for the development of LBP in pre-professional dancers.
A Descriptive Comparison of Oral Cavity Movements Between Brass Instrumentalists Performing Large Interval Slurs
Authors: Iltis Peter W , Frahm Jens , Voit Dirk , Wright Aaron , Dever Amy
Published: December 2024

OBJECTIVE: We have previously described patterns of oral cavity movement in advanced French horn players during the performance of large interval slurs. The current study expands upon that work by reporting comparisons between horn, trumpet, and trombone players performing similar large
interval exercises. METHODS: Real-time MRI (RT-MRI) films at 20 msec resolution were simultaneously obtained in the sagittal and coronal planes in 10 trumpet players, 9 horn players, and 10 trombone players as they performed 2 repetitions each of slur sequences spanning 1 octave and 1 octave
+ 3rd (interval of a tenth) at a mezzo forte dynamic level. Nine profile lines were overlaid on the sagittal images allowing the measurement of dorsal tongue edge movement using a customized MATLAB toolkit. Image J (FIJI) was utilized to measure the cross-sectional area formed between the
dorsal edge of the tongue and the hard palate as depicted in coronal images. RESULTS: In horn and trumpet players, but not in trombone players, sagittal and coronal views demonstrate patterned tongue movements that narrow and widen the air channel during ascending and descending slurs, respectively.
The magnitude of these movements is greater during larger intervals, though not perfectly consistent within each slur sequence. The sagittal views revealed these patterns to be most prominent in the anterior oral cavity rather than the middle and posterior oral cavity across all instruments.
CONCLUSION: Conformational changes of the oral cavity (vocal-tract tuning) during large interval slurs in the upper register may assist performance in trumpet and horn players. Trombone players may also employ these strategies when the extreme upper register is involved, but future study must
verify this.
A Relative Permeability Model of Coal Based on Fractal Capillary Bundle Assumption
Authors: Shao Tangsha , Zhu Jie , Wang Jinge , Tang Jun
Published: December 2024

As the pore and fracture structure of coal significantly influence gas-water relative permeability (GWRP), it is crucial to study the GWRP in coal reservoirs for optimizing gas production. This paper provided parameters such as pore size range and capillary bundle porosity by referring to existing mercury intrusion porosimetry (MIP) experiments. The effective porosity coefficient and gas-water phase critical pore size were introduced to improve the GWRP model for coal based on the assumption of fractal capillary bundle. The GWRP model depends on changes in phase saturation, maximum and minimum capillary tube pore diameters, porosity, capillary size distribution dimension Df, and fractal dimension of tortuosity Dt. It demonstrated that models for various coal samples from the southern Qinshui Basin exhibit good agreement with the GWRP experimental data. In addition, the improved GWRP model was used to simulate coalbed methane (CBM) production and water production. The findings suggested that as water and gas are continuously extracted, effective stress rises as reservoir pressure and water saturation decline, leading to a more even distribution of capillary diameter and an increase in capillary degree. Furthermore, the effect of structural parameters on CBM production was also discussed.
A Genetic Particle Swarm Optimization with Policy Gradient for Hydraulic Fracturing Optimization
Authors: Wang Yunjin , Zheng Leyi , Chen Gong , Kong Mingwei , Yuan Lishan , Wang Bin , Hu Longqiao , Jiang Tingxue , Zhou Fujian
Published: December 2024

Particle swarm optimization (PSO) has been widely developed and applied as one of the important algorithms for optimization problems because of its few control parameters and low complexity. However, conventional PSO has the problem of premature convergence. Most of the control parameters of optimized PSO are adjusted manually, and the technology of adaptive adjustment based on reinforcement learning (RL) is still immature. Therefore, this study proposes a new genetic PSO (GAPSO) with policy gradient (PGGAPSO). The algorithm constructs a strategy neural network as an agent to dynamically output the action probability distribution and passes the action with the highest selection probability to the GAPSO section through the designed action selection function, thereby updating the parameters. The GAPSO section solves the optimization problem based on the new parameters obtained and uses the individual and global optimums obtained from the iterations as inputs to the policy neural network. In addition, an elite strategy is introduced to enhance the exploration capability of the PGGAPSO. Then, the performance of PGGAPSO was comprehensively evaluated using convergence analysis, statistical tests, Friedman rank, and runtime analysis. Finally, PGGAPSO is applied to the construction parameter optimization of hydraulic fracturing. The results show that due to the influence of the number of samples, the optimization performance of PGGAPSO is general in the early stage of iteration but shows excellent with continuous iteration. For unimodal and most of multimodal functions, PGGAPSO shows significant difference and excellence. Additional processes, such as elite strategy and policy gradient (PG), resulted in a 7.3% increase in runtime for PGGAPSO compared with GAPSO, but this additional computational loss is acceptable relative to the improved accuracy. The algorithm does not require an objective function and can be combined with the complex agent model of hydraulic fracturing to optimize the fracturing parameters. In the case of parameter optimization for hydraulic fracturing in the Jimsar sag, the optimized production was increased by more than 10% on average.
Coseismic Shallow Slip Deficit Accounted for by Diffuse Off‐Fault Deformation
Authors: Antoine Solene , Klinger Yann , Wang Kang , Bürgmann Roland
Published: December 2024

Earthquake ruptures produce fault slip and kilometer-wide diffuse deformation of the host rocks. However, the origin of the diffuse deformation and its role in the rupture process are debated. We produce a refined slip model for the 2019 Ridgecrest, California, earthquakes, and analyze the relations between down-dip rupture process, and surface diffuse deformation. We show that the decrease in coseismic slip toward the ground surface, also known as shallow slip deficit (SSD), correlates with the occurrence of diffuse deformation at the surface, which is not accounted for by models assuming elastic host rocks. Hence, we suggest that a significant part of the SSD in earthquake source models could be interpreted as a proxy for shallow diffuse inelastic deformation around faults. Revisiting earthquake source models for 28 continental earthquakes, we discuss the controlling parameters of the SSD and diffuse deformation, and propose a conceptual model of the near-field coseismic surface deformation.
The INFLUENCE 3.0 model: updated predictions of locoregional recurrence and contralateral breast cancer, now also suitable for patients treated with neoadjuvant systemic therapy
Authors: Maaren MC van , Hueting TA , Uden DJP van , Hezewijk M van , de Munck L , Mureau MAM , Seegers PA , Voorham QJM , Schmidt MK , Sonke GS , Groothuis-Oudshoorn CGM , Siesling S , group NABOR project
Published: December 2024

Background
Individual risk prediction of 5-year locoregional recurrence (LRR) and contralateral breast cancer (CBC) supports decisions regarding personalised surveillance. The previously developed INFLUENCE tool was rebuild, including a recent population and patients who received neoadjuvant systemic therapy (NST).
Methods
Women, surgically treated for nonmetastatic breast cancer, diagnosed between 2012-2016, were selected from the Netherlands Cancer Registry. Cox regression with restricted cubic splines was compared to Random Survival Forest (RSF) to predict five-year LRR and CBC risks. Separate models were developed for NST patients. Discrimination and calibration were assessed by 100x bootstrap resampling.
Results
In the non-NST and NST group, 49,631 and 10,154 patients were included, respectively. Age, mode of detection, histology, sublocalisation, grade, pT, pN, hormonal receptor status±endocrine treatment, HER2 status±targeted treatment, surgery±immediate reconstruction±radiation therapy, and chemotherapy were significant predictors for LRR and/or CBC in non-NST patients. For NST patients this was similar, but excluding (y)pT and (y)pN status, and including presence of ductal carcinoma in situ, axillary lymph node dissection and pathologic complete response.
For non-NST patients, the Cox and RSF models were integrated in the online tool with 5-year AUCs of 0.77 (95%CI:0.77-0.77) and 0.68 (95%CI:0.67-0.68)] for LRR and CBC prediction, respectively. For NST patients, the RSF model performed best (AUCs 0.77 (95%CI:0.76-0.78) and 0.73 (95%CI:0.69-0.76) for LRR and CBC, respectively). Regarding calibration, observed-predicted differences were all <1%.
Conclusion
This INFLUENCE 3.0 models showed moderate performance in LRR and CBC prediction. The models have been made available as online tool to enable clinical decision support regarding personalised follow-up.
Microstructure evolution and growth kinetics of Cu6Sn5 intermetallic compound at liquid-solid interfaces in Cu/Sn/Cu interconnects under ultrasonic waves
Authors: Niu Hongwei , Bian Hong , Wang Jian , Song Xiaoguo , Zhao Hongyun
Published: December 2024

The microstructure evolution and growth kinetics of Cu6Sn5 intermetallic compound (IMC) in a Cu/Sn/Cu interconnection during ultrasonic-assisted transient liquid phase (TLP) soldering were studied. Being different from the symmetrical growth during isothermal aging without ultrasonic waves (USW), highly asymmetrical growth of Cu6Sn5 at the upper and lower Sn/Cu interfaces was observed with USW. Cu6Sn5 grains exhibited scallop-type morphology, and were discrete at the upper interface; while that at the lower Sn/Cu interface exhibited column-type morphology, and were conterminous at the lower interface. USW induced Cu atom migration from the upper Cu surface to the lower interface, providing a sufficient atomic flux for rapid Cu6Sn5 formation at the lower interface and creating cavitation pits on the upper Cu surface. A growth model was developed to explain the Cu6Sn5 IMC kinetics, suggesting a reaction-controlled growth mechanism.
A biodegradation potential of Aspergillus Niger and white rot fungi for Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE)
Authors: Sutkar Pankaj R. , Hadkar Smriti S. , Dhulap Vinayak P. , Kamble Subodh A.
Published: December 2024

Plastic have indeed raised major concerns due to their extensive spread over and potential adverse effect on human life as well as environment. The study aims to illuminate potential of Aspergillus Niger and White rot fungi for biodegradation of plastic material. Polyethylene is one of the most used and user-friendly plastic types for humans in day today life. So, effect of biodegradation process was studied on polyethylene (PE) plastic type. Aspergillus Niger and white rot fungi were the two fungal species that were isolated from garbage soil and screened in two medium broths independently i.e. Czapek-Dox broth (CDB) and Mineral salt medium (MSM). Pure LDPE films that had not been exposed to ultraviolet light were used in a 20-day biodegradation process. The morphological, surface, and structural alterations on polyethylene were assessed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR). The biodegradation in the both medium was studied with two funguses in which sample showed 40% degradation in CDB broth and less degradation in MSM respectively. These analyses demonstrated the ability of the chosen fungi to degrade polyethylene (PE).
Conservation of the dehiscence zone gene regulatory network in dicots and the role of the SEEDSTICK ortholog of California poppy (Eschscholzia californica) in fruit development
Authors: Lotz Dominik , Rössner Le-Han , Ehlers Katrin , Kong Doudou , Rössner Clemens , Rupp Oliver , Becker Annette
Published: December 2024

Background
Fruits, with their diverse shapes, colors, and flavors, represent a fascinating aspect of plant evolution and have played a significant role in human history and nutrition. Understanding the origins and evolutionary pathways of fruits offers valuable insights into plant diversity, ecological relationships, and the development of agricultural systems. Arabidopsis thaliana (Brassicaceae, core eudicot) and Eschscholzia californica (California poppy, Papaveraceae, sister group to core eudictos) both develop dry dehiscent fruit, with two valves separating explosively from the replum upon maturation. This led to the hypothesis, that homologous gene regulatory networks direct fruit development and dehiscence in both species.
Results
Comprehensive phylogeny reconstructions using recently available reference genomes show that genes essential for Arabidopsis dehiscence zone formation show lineages-specific genes, specific to Brassicaceae or core eudicots. Transcriptome analysis of valve and replum tissue of California poppy yielded the SEEDSTICK (STK) ortholog as candidate for dehiscence zone regulation. Expression analysis of STK orthologs from other dry dehiscing fruits shows their involvement in fruit development of several species. Functional analysis using Virus-Induced Gene Silencing (VIGS) clarified the roles of EscaSTK: an evolutionary conserved role in seed filling and seed coat development, and a novel role in restricting cell divisions in the inner cell layer of the valve.
Conclusion
Our analysis shows that the gene regulatory network described in Arabidopsis is lacking to a large extent in other dicots, even if their fruits form a dehiscence zone at the valve margins. Orthologs of STK, known to be involved in ovule development and seed abscission in Arabidopsis, was recruited to a network regulating fruit wall proliferation in California poppy. There, EcSTK allows fruit maturation without premature capsule rupture.
Nanoremediation of ground water contaminants using CuONPs and ZnONPs synthesized from endophytic fungi
Authors: Vellingiri Manon Mani , Munaf Mohammedbasha , Shanmugam Sabarathinam , Umesh Mridul , Paramasivam Deepak
Published: December 2024

The global wide threatening problem is the pollution especially water and soil pollution are biggest threats to our people. The pollution not only damages the resources but also enters the ecosystem and impairs our health. The pollution disfigures the fertility of the soil and contaminates the ground water table which is the most reliable source of all living organisms. Due to urbanization of people and scarcity of the water resources the people rely on the ground water for the domestic and drinking needs. The advancement in science and technology paved a path as nanotechnology to overcome these problems. In this current investigation the CuO Nanoparticles (CuONPs) and ZnO Nanoparticles (ZnONPs) were synthesized from endophytic fungal isolated strains that were existed and picked through isolation technique from Aegle marmelos. The CuONPs and ZnONPs were characterized through SEM, XRD, EDX, UV- Vis spectrum and FT- IR analyses which were previously reported. The ground water samples were collected near, in and around of the garbage- dump site of Vellalore – Kurichi village, Coimbatore, Tamilnadu, India; three areas were selected and water samples were collected. The basic physico- chemical parameters such like BOD, COD, TDS, hardness, pH, chlorides, sulphates, nitrates and heavy metal(s) of the collected samples were analysed. The adsorption studies were initiated with three different concentrations of CuONPs and ZnONPs in 100 mL of polluted ground water samples, and the kinetics was started with 0th minute and extended till 180 minutes. The adsorption rate increased with the increase in time; the CuONPs and ZnONPs adsorbed the pollutants including Arsenic (V) effectively. The nanoremediated samples were further taken to determine the effectiveness in aiding the plant growth promotion and this was executed in Trigonella sp plants. The plants were grown well which was compared to the control plants and the phytochemical assessment was carried out. The presence of phytochemicals of the plants grown in nanoremediated samples was similar to that of control plants. Further, the CuONPs and ZnONPs has the ability in remediating the pollutants/ contaminants in the ground water.
Cognitive Training with Adaptive Algorithm improves Cognitive Ability in Elderly With MCI
Authors: Li Chenxi , Li Meiyun , Shang Yunfeng
Published: December 2024

Recent discoveries indicating that the brain retains its ability to adapt and change throughout life have sparked interest in cognitive training (CT) as a possible means to postpone the development of dementia. Despite this, most research has focused on confirming the efficacy of training outcomes, with few studies examining the correlation between performance and results across various stages of training. In particular, the relationship between initial performance and the extent of improvement, the rate of learning, and the asymptotic performance level throughout the learning curve remains ambiguous. In this study, older adults underwent ten days of selective attention training using an adaptive algorithm, which enabled a detailed analysis of the learning curve's progression. Cognitive abilities were assessed before and after CT using the Mini-mental State Examination (MMSE) and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). The findings indicated that: (1) within the learning curve, superior initial performance was associated with greater improvement, quicker learning rates, and a lower asymptotic performance level; (2) higher pre-training MMSE scores predicted higher post-training MMSE scores but less improvement; (3) higher pre-training MoCA scores predicted higher post-training MoCA scores and less improvement; (4) the parameters of the learning curve did not correlate with performance on the MMSE or MoCA; and (5) age did not correlate with any of the variables examined. These results suggest that selective attention training with an adaptive algorithm is an effective tool for cognitive intervention and supports the compensation hypothesis.
FNDC1 Competitively Binds Gβ2 to Suppress the β-Catenin Destruction Complex in Gastric Cancer
Authors: Jiang Tao , Chen Hao , Lin Fangyu , Liu Jialin , Lin Xiaoyan , Gao Wenyu
Published: December 2024

Background: Elevated FNDC1 expression promotes epithelial-mesenchymal transition in gastric cancer (GC) cells, contributing to their malignant traits. However, the exact mechanism governing this process remains unclear.
Methods: Bioinformatics analyses were used to identify the expression of FDNC1 in pan-cancer, its correlation with clinical outcomes, and biological functions in GC. Co-immunoprecipitation assays and western blot elucidate the interaction between FDNC1 and Gβ2/Gγ2 and the expression of Axin1, GSK3β, APC, and Dvl. The specific binding sites of FNDC1 and Gβ2 were explored by co-immunoprecipitation.
Results: FNDC1 was highly expressed in GC tissue, and its expression level is positively correlated with poor prognosis of GC. Functional enrichment analysis shows that FNDC1-related genes may participate in regulating the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. In vitro assays prove that FNDC1 competitively binds to the Gβ2 protein. This binding caused Dvl to separate from Gβγ. Subsequently, Dvl was released and recruited Axin1, facilitating the degradation of Axin1 to suppress the β-catenin destruction complex. We further identified the WD5 amino acid segment (residues 224-254) as the specific binding region of FNDC1 on Gβ2.
Discussion: This study reveals a novel mechanism where FNDC1 competitively binds Gβ2 to suppress the β-catenin destruction complex. Suggesting that FNDC1 could be a potential therapeutic target in GC.
Gender Diversity in Fintech Companies: Implications for Corporate Performance and Social Responsibility
Authors: Kouam Arthur William Fodouop , Chen Xiaoxin , Liu XiangYu , Wang Fengqi , Tuheti Gulijianati
Published: December 2024

We examine the effects of gender diversity in leadership on corporate performance and corporate social responsibility within the rapidly evolving fintech sector, known for its intense competition and innovation. Utilizing both quantitative data and qualitative insights, we apply a robust empirical model with regression analysis and thematic coding to assess the connections between gender diversity, corporate performance, and CSR. Our findings indicate a significant positive relationship between gender-diverse leadership and enhanced corporate performance, validating the hypothesis that such diversity bolsters financial outcomes. Furthermore, gender diversity is linked to stronger CSR commitments, driven by increased employee engagement. We identify organizational culture and recruitment practices as key moderating factors, highlighting the importance of supportive environments. This research enriches the literature by focusing on the underrepresented nature of gender diversity in fintech and emphasizing the strategic benefits of inclusive leadership, urging managers and policymakers to promote gender diversity for ethical and business advantages.
JEL codes: J16, G20, M14
How do users of a mental health app conceptualise digital therapeutic alliance? A qualitative study using the Framework Approach
Authors: Taylor Theresa , D’Alfonso Simon , Dolan Maria João Tralhão , Yiend Jenny , Jacobsen Pamela
Published: December 2024

Background
Fully automated mental health apps have the potential to increase access to evidence-based psychological interventions and reduce burden on staff resources in overburdened mental health services. Within human-to-human therapy the working relationship (therapeutic alliance) between the client and therapist is well studied and has been consistently linked to effective and engaging therapy. However, less is known about whether a digital therapeutic alliance exists, what its components may be and how it can be fostered to improve engagement and adherence to digital interventions. This study explored the experiences of users of a mental health app to better understand digital therapeutic alliance and how persuasive systems design may be able to help us understand which features of app design influence this.
Methods
We conducted a qualitative study using semi-structured interviews with 13 participants who had recent experiences of using the STOP app which targets paranoia. Data were analysed using framework analysis with therapeutic alliance and persuasive systems design as deductive theoretical frameworks.
Results
We constructed five dimensions of digital therapeutic alliance: 1) Humanness of the app 2) Personal meaningfulness 3) Progression towards goals 4) How I use the app and 5) Flexibility enhances relationship. Themes 1–4 map onto the existing dimensions of therapeutic alliance and Theme 5 (Flexibility enhances relationship) provides the context within which a digital therapeutic alliance forms. Persuasive systems design features were found to reinforce and enhance aspects of digital therapeutic alliance.
Conclusions
This study provides valuable insight into the existence of digital therapeutic relationships (alliance) and its dimensions. From our findings, there are indicators that digital therapeutic alliance is a digital analogue of therapeutic alliance and is enhanced by persuasive features of the app. Findings from this study could be used to inform the design of digital interventions to enhance their capacity to foster digital therapeutic alliance with users, with the supposition that as with the traditional therapeutic alliance, its digital counterpart is also conducive to better outcomes in terms of mental health app efficacy.
Chain of Function for Large Language Models
Authors: Chen Victor , Brady Gerry
Published: December 2024

Prompting methods such as Chain of Thoughts (CoT) improve the performance of Large Language Models (LLMs) by decomposing tasks into steps. To solve each step accurately, approaches like Program Aided Language (PAL) models prompt LLMs to generate Python code and execute the code with an external interpreter. Here LLMs attempt to map problem description into low level instructions, which may be challenging for complicated domain-specific applications. In this paper we present Chain of Function (CoF), which prompts LLMs with domain-specific function libraries. LLMs generate function calls in each step, and receive intermediate feedback from each function execution. This allows LLMs to simplify problem solving by reasoning at abstract function level instead of atomic operations. We demonstrate the effectiveness of CoF across mathematical, symbolical, and algorithmic reasoning tasks from popular benchmarks. Experiments show satisfactory results by reasoning at function level using domain specific libraries. Various extensions of CoF including solving problems with multi-libraries and blended libraries, as well as automatic generation of domain specific libraries, are also studied in this research.
Effects of Cutting Direction and Average Chip Thicknesses on the Wood and Bamboo Milling Dust Morphological Characteristics
Authors: Cui Yunqi , Qiu Hongru , Ding Tao , Gong Meng , Zhu Nanfeng
Published: December 2024

Dust exposure has now become a significant hazard, posing risks to both worker health and equipment safety. It is important to understand the characteristics of milling dust and take appropriate measures to reduce dust emissions. This study provides a comprehensive analysis of milling dust generated from three biomass materials — Scots pine, red oak, and Moso bamboo, primarily focusing on the influence of cutting directions and average chip thickness on the morphological characteristics of dust from these materials. The research used the sieving method to investigate particle size distribution across varying average chip thicknesses. Furthermore, flatbed scanning image analysis was utilized to investigate the correlations between particle size characteristics such as area-equivalent diameter and minimum Feret diameter, and various morphological parameters including aspect ratio, roundness, and convexity. The study also observed the morphology of representative particles using an optical microscope. It was found that Moso bamboo could produce more inhalable dust than red oak and Scots pine, while the lowest median area-equivalent diameter and aspect ratio were discovered in dust from Scots pine and red oak, respectively. Moso bamboo milling dust shows a higher roundness and convexity. Longitudinal and transverse cutting had different effects on large-size particles and fine dust. A minor influence of average chip thickness on roundness and convexity was found. This study reveals the relationship between the angle between the cutting direction and the fiber direction and different sizes of dust, as well as its specific effects on the aspect ratio, roundness, and convexity of particles of different sizes. The study provides essential data for cleaner production and health protection of milling dust including wood and bamboo in the environment.
INFORMATION CRIMES AND INVESTIGATION CHALLENGE COMBATING INFORMATION CRIMES; A MULTIDIMENSIONAL APPROACH TO ADDRESSING INVESTIGATION CHALLENGES IN THE ERA OF DIGITAL ADVANCEMENT
Authors: Qalandar Hussein Prusha
Published: December 2024

In our increasingly digitized world, information crimes have emerged as a significant threat, encompassing a wide range of unlawful activities such as hacking, identity theft, and cyber espionage. This study explores the landscape of information crimes and the challenges faced by investigators in addressing and mitigating these offenses. The first aspect of this study examines the diverse realm of information crimes, providing an overview of the types of offenses that fall under this category. From financial fraud to data breaches, the spectrum of information crimes is vast, posing risks to individuals, businesses, and even nations. Understanding the nature and evolution of these crimes is crucial for developing effective investigation strategies and procedures. The second focus of this study is on the challenges faced by investigators when tackling information crimes. The dynamic and borderless nature of the digital realm presents unique obstacles, including issues related to jurisdiction, attribution, and the rapidly evolving tactics employed by cybercriminals.

Additionally, the study sheds light on the technological complexities that investigators face, such as encryption and anonymization tools that perpetrators exploit to conceal their activities. To address these challenges, the study suggests the implementation of multidimensional and collaborative approaches. International cooperation among law enforcement agencies, private sector entities, and cybersecurity experts is emphasized. The study also seeks continuous training and skill development for investigators to stay abreast of technological advancements. In conclusion, this paper tries to underscore the urgency of enhancing global efforts to combat information crimes. By comprehensively understanding the landscape of these offenses and addressing the specific challenges faced by investigators, we can better equip ourselves to safeguard the integrity of information in our interconnected world.
Epitaxial growth and characterization of gan thin films on 2D MoS2 substrates via plasma-assisted molecular beam epitaxy
Authors: Susanto Iwan , Liu Hong-Shan , Yu Ing-Song
Published: December 2024

Gallium nitride (GaN) is an excellent material for high-performance optoelectronic and power electronic devices due to its superior thermal conductivity and exceptional electron transport properties. However, growing high-quality GaN films is challenging because of lattice mismatch and thermal expansion coefficient differences with conventional substrates like sapphire and silicon, resulting in threading dislocations and structural defects that compromise device performance. This study addresses these issues by utilizing a 2D-MoS₂ buffer layer, which provides an atomically smooth surface and quasi-van der Waals interface to minimize lattice mismatch stress and suppress defect propagation.
GaN thin films were grown on MoS₂-deposited c-sapphire substrates using plasma-assisted molecular beam epitaxy (PA-MBE) under optimized conditions. The MoS₂ layer was prepared using a chemical vapor deposition process followed by nitridation. Characterization techniques, including Reflection High-Energy Electron Diffraction, Atomic Force Microscopy, Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy, and X-ray Diffraction, confirmed that the GaN films exhibited high crystallinity, phase purity, and preferred c-axis orientation, with minimal structural defects. Surface analysis showed moderate roughness, with a root mean square value of 11.35 nm, attributed to localized growth variations.
The MoS₂ buffer layer significantly reduced lattice mismatch-induced stress, as indicated by the absence of secondary phases in XRD analysis and facilitated defect-free epitaxial growth. These findings demonstrate the transformative potential of combining PA-MBE with 2D material buffers to achieve high-quality GaN films. This approach holds promise for optoelectronic applications such as LEDs and laser diodes, as well as high-frequency electronic devices like high-electron-mobility transistors
Adaptation of Drosophila melanogaster to high and low osmolarity promotes evolutionary change in the phenotypic plasticity of the larval anal organs
Authors: Sivunova Dana , Yakovleva Ekaterina , Naimark Elena , Lysenkov Sergey , Perfilieva Ksenia , Markov Alexander
Published: December 2024

The anal organs (AO) of Drosophila larvae provide a textbook example of phenotypic developmental plasticity as they expand in low osmolarity conditions and shrink when larvae are reared on a high-salt medium. Waddington (1953) experimentally showed that these plastic changes might undergo “genetic as similation”: the adaptive plastic change in the size of AO under high salinity conditions became hereditary after a few generations of rearing on a high-salt medium. Later attempts to replicate this finding produced ambiguous results. To clarify the question, we analyzed plastic osmolarity-related changes in the size of AO in three D. melanogaster lines adapted to low, intermediate, and high osmolarity during a long-term evolutionary experiment. We failed to replicate the genetic assimilation. However, we find that the reaction norm became wider in the low osmolarity adapted line. Additionally, we studied the fine structure of AO in fly lines using dying, SEM, and microtomography and revealed phenotypic plasticity of nanoscale pits on the surface of AO as well as confirmed the reduction of the epithelial cells of AO in flies adapted to higher osmolarity.
Intensity of Haemoproteus spp. blood infection differs between wild birds captured using different trapping methods
Authors: Erokhina Maria , Bushuev Andrey , Palinauskas Vaidas , Platonova Elena , Mukhin Andrey
Published: December 2024

Infection with haemoparasites (Haemosporida spp.) is common within wild birds’ populations and has been associated with adverse effects on birds’ fitness and life performance. Existing literature suggests a hypothesis that birds infected with haemosporidians and exhibiting high parasitemia levels may demonstrate reduced activity, potentially leading to their underrepresentation in captures which use stationary traps, such as mist nets. However, there are limited studies demonstrating this phenomenon in wild birds. To study the possible under representation of highly parasitized birds, captured with commonly used stationary mist nets, we compared parasitemia levels of haemosporidian parasites in wild birds captured during spring migration using both actively startling of birds and birds trapped passively into the mist nets. Utilizing cumulative link mixed models, we assessed the influence of trapping methods on parasitemia scores, controlling for factors such as species identity, season progression, and migration distance. Our dataset comprised 1815 individuals of 60 species, including 142 actively captured and 1673 passively captured ones. Although the number of infected individuals was higher in passively caught birds (24 % in active vs 43 % in passive), the study revealed a significant difference between infected birds within two capture methods: despite challenges in balancing sample sizes, and trapping dates, the findings affirm the underestimation of birds having high parasitemia levels with prevalent mist net techniques. We highlight the importance of considering potential biases in trapping methods when studying haemosporidian parasites in avian hosts during migration.
Arquitetura da Disciplina
Authors: Pereira Rafael Gomes Nogueira
Published: December 2024

O presente ensaio tem por objetivo analisar a concepção educacional de Maurício Tragtenberg a partir de sua intersecção com Michel Foucault. Para tanto, partiremos da concepção de Maurício Tragtenberg sobre a educação burocrática, indicando como esta última foi constituída para atender as necessidades de reprodução do capitalismo. No contexto capitalista, a educação inclinou-se para a reprodução da força de trabalho, exercendo um controle sobre as práticas e sobre os corpos a partir de mecanismos punitivos, de forma próxima ao que desenvolveu Michel Foucault em “Vigiar e Punir”.
Licenciarse en Ciencias Religiosas y Licenciarse en Filosofía
Authors: Merino Patricio
Published: December 2024

El discurso felicita a los graduados en Ciencias Religiosas y Filosofía, destacando su esfuerzo, dedicación y valentía al elegir un camino desafiante y lleno de interrogantes. Subraya el valor de estos saberes milenarios que invitan a reflexionar, trascender y dialogar, abordando preguntas fundamentales de la existencia. Se les recuerda que su logro no es un fin, sino el inicio de un camino de aprendizaje continuo, marcado por la búsqueda de la verdad, el respeto por la dignidad humana y la promoción del bien común. Finalmente, se les anima a mantenerse vinculados a la Facultad, que ofrece programas de posgrado en Teología y Filosofía, y a seguir siendo fieles a su vocación, apasionados por su saber y, quienes lo deseen, testigos de su fe.
Estudo de cultivares de soja irrigada nas condições do semiárido
Authors:   , Albuquerque José Ricardo Tavares de
Published: December 2024

A soja [Glycine max (L.) Merrill] é a leguminosa de maior importância econômica. O interesse mundial pelo cultivo desta leguminosa deve-se à excelente combinação apresentada em termos de produtividade e baixo custo de produção além dos teores elevados de proteína (40%) e óleo (20%) das sementes. O Brasil é o maior exportador e o maior produtor da oleaginosa. No entanto no semiárido, a soja ainda não é semeada, embora algumas cultivares sejam rústicas e podem ser adaptadas nessa região. A identificação de genótipos com elevada produtividade e estabilidade de grãos nas condições de cultivo do semiárido brasileiro, caracterizadas por temperaturas elevadas e precipitação concentrada em poucos meses do ano, são de extrema importância. Quando genótipos são avaliados em diferentes condições ambientais podem ter sua performance relativa alterada levando ao fenômeno denominado interação genótipos por ambientes. Nesse sentido foram avaliados 21 cultivares de soja em blocos casualizados com quatro repetições durante as estações secas de 2016-2017 e chuvosas de 2017-2018 em Mossoró-RN, para o teor de óleo, a produtividade e seus componentes. Foram utilizadas as metodologias de regressão fatorial e análise de componentes principais com as predições da soma dos efeitos genotípicos e da interação para quantificar o papel de cinco covariáveis ambientais sobre a interação genótipos por ambiente. Foram utilizadas também as metodologias GGE Biplot e da Média Harmônica da Performance Relativa dos valores Genotípicos para identificar genótipos adaptados e estáveis. A precipitação pluviométrica, a umidade relativa e a temperatura contribuem positivamente para aumentar o teor de óleo enquanto a temperatura mínima e a radiação solar, para reduzir. A interação genótipos por anos em soja tem forte influência sobre o ambiente, é predominantemente quantitativa e dificulta a recomendação de genótipos no semiárido. Os genótipos mais estáveis e adaptados para a produtividade de grãos e teor de óleo são BMX OPUS IPRO, Pampeana 007 RR, Pampeana 20 RR, BRS Sambaíba RR, P 98Y70 RR, BRS 333 RR, BRS 9280 RR, M 8644 IPRO, M 8372 IPRO e ST 920 RR
The Potential Role of Dopamine Pathways in the Pathophysiology of Depression: Current Advances and Future Aspects
Authors: Pannu Arzoo , Goyal Ramesh K.
Published: December 2024

Depression is a serious mental health disorder that impacts more than 350 million individuals
globally. While the roles of serotonin and norepinephrine in depression have been extensively
studied, the importance of dopaminergic pathways—essential for mood, cognition, motor control,
and endocrine function—often gets overlooked. This review focuses on four major dopamine (DA)
circuits: the mesolimbic (MLP), mesocortical (MCP), nigrostriatal (NSP), and thalamictuberoinfundibular
pathways (TTFP), and their roles in depression. The MLP, which is key to reward
processing, is linked to anhedonia, a primary depression symptom. The MCP, projecting to the
prefrontal cortex, affects cognitive issues like impaired attention and decision-making. The NSP,
mainly responsible for motor control, is related to psychomotor retardation in depression, while the
TTFP manages neuroendocrine responses, which are often disrupted in stress-related depressive
conditions. Current antidepressant treatments mainly target serotonin and norepinephrine systems
but tend to be less effective for patients with DArgic dysfunction, leading to treatment resistance.
This review underscores emerging evidence that suggests targeting DArgic pathways could improve
treatment outcomes, especially for symptoms like anhedonia and cognitive deficits that conventional
therapies often fail to address. Future research should aim to combine advancements in neuroimaging,
optogenetics, and genetic studies to better map DArgic pathways and create personalized treatment
plans. This review highlights the potential for new therapies that focus on DA systems, which
could pave the way for more effective and tailored approaches to treating depression.
Multilingual Classrooms for Young Children in the UK
Authors: Kiaer Jieun
Published: December 2024

This book is a call to action for educators, policymakers and parents, combining practical strategies with research-based insights to support its readers in advocating for multilingual education. It will enable teachers to combine technological innovations and the linguistic resources of their communities to support and promote multilingualism.
The Ecology of Pre-Primary Foreign Language Learning
Authors: Rokita-Jaśkow Joanna
Published: December 2024

This book synthesises research on very early language learning in pre-primary organised instruction settings, using a framework of ecological development to investigate the nested systems in which very young learners operate and the influence of other agents on children’s foreign language learning.
Is mobile phone use while driving prevalent? Evidence from Saudi Arabia
Authors:   Department of Mathematics, College of Science and Arts, King Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 344, Rabigh 21911, Saudi Arabia, Elhafian Mubarak H. , Hussien Hamid H. ,   Department of Mathematics, College of Science and Arts, King Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 344, Rabigh 21911, Saudi Arabia, Alghamdi Abdulaziz S. ,   Department of Mathematics, College of Science and Arts, King Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 344, Rabigh 21911, Saudi Arabia
Published: December 2024

Mobile phone use while driving is common in Saudi Arabia despite the presence of laws prohibiting it. This study aimed to examine the impact of mobile phone use on driving, as well as the attitudes and behaviors of male drivers. Data were collected through online surveys distributed to 1,000 drivers, representing the driving population. A total of 884 responses were received from licensed drivers who reported driving a car within the 30 days prior to the survey. Frequency analysis was performed for each survey item, and statistical tests, including the chi-square test and the Mann-Whitney U test, were used to identify associations and differences in unsafe driving behaviors. The findings revealed that 98% of participants used a mobile phone for activities such as texting, calling, or answering while driving. Although mobile phone use while driving was high across all regions, significant differences were found based on nationality (98% for Saudis compared to 95% for non-Saudis). However, age, education level, and driving experience did not show significant differences in drivers' attitudes or behaviors. Authorities should consider implementing stricter regulations to limit mobile phone use while driving. Future research should also explore the broader issue of distraction among all road users, including pedestrians.
Drago Ibler u znaku ekspresionizma – tragom neizvedenih natječajnih projekata iz fundusa Hrvatskog muzeja arhitekture do pariške izložbe 1925.
Authors: Ceraj Iva
Published: December 2024

Drago Ibler in the Expressionist Mode – Examining his Unbuilt Competition Designs from the Fonds of the Croatian Museum of Architecture until the Paris Exhibition of 1925
High Data Rate MWD Mud Pulse Telemetry – From Mysteries to Discovery
Authors: Chin Wilson C. , Zhuang Xiaoying , Chin Jamie A.
Published: December 2024

Our new approach to MWD mud pulse telemetry offers significant increases over conventional data rates. Using waveguide acoustics, we show that common drilling communications channels support carrier frequencies exceeding several hundred Hertz. Such signals are prone to attenuation over large drillpipe distances. Low power, self-spinning “turbosirens” are designed, providing high torque and rotation rate performance at all flow rates without electric or hydraulic motor drives. The sirens rotate, drawing only on the kinetic energy of the mud, like flapping flags oscillating in wind. Our turbosirens are minimally affected by LCM jamming. Turbine and siren rotor components ride freely along longitudinal trenches built into rotating shafts. Both magically float into the oncoming mud as it slows down, thus, widening all gap spaces and freeing any trapped debris even as both travel opposite to the mud flow. In addition, “turbosirens in series” signal superposition, drawing on constructive wave interference, offers strong pressure signals at high frequencies without mechanical complexity. Rapid modulations are possible, also without motor drive, relying on rapidly acting electro-magneto rheological brakes powered by turbosirens. To take advantage of hardware capabilities, “Intelligent i FSK” telemetry, or Frequency Shift Keying creates clean signals without the ambiguous wave reflections found with PSK and randomized time shifts. Frequency pairs are not selected arbitrarily, but chosen from “neighboring pressure peaks and valleys” in frequency space as determined from bottomhole assembly waveguide Fourier analysis. Finally, surface signal processing and reflection removal are facilitated with time delay and differential equation algorithms. For deep wells where multiple drill pipe reflections are unlikely, analytical solutions for both are obtained assuming single reflections which do not involve windowing challenges and complicated digital filter design. Software and hardware developments patented, published and validated over the years, are integrated, refined and readied for controlled field tests.