bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Compromised Mitotic Fidelity in Human Pluripotent Stem Cells
Authors: Milagre Inês , Pereira Carolina , Oliveira Raquel A.
Published: June 2023

Human pluripotent stem cells (PSCs), which include both embryonic and induced pluripotent stem cells, are widely used in fundamental and applied biomedical research. They have been instrumental for better understanding development and cell differentiation processes, disease origin and progression, and can aid in the discovery of new drugs. PSCs also hold great potential in regenerative medicine to treat or diminish the effects of certain debilitating diseases, such as degenerative disorders. However, some concerns have recently been raised over their safety for the use in regenerative medicine. One of the major concerns is the fact that PSCs are prone to errors in passing the correct number of chromosomes to daughter cells, resulting in aneuploid cells. Aneuploidy, characterised by an imbalance in chromosome number, elicits the upregulation of different stress pathways that are deleterious to cell homeostasis, impair proper embryo development and can potentiate cancer development. In this review we will summarise known molecular mechanisms recently revealed to impair mitotic fidelity in human PSCs and the consequences of the decreased mitotic fidelity of these cells. We will finish with speculative views on how the physiological characteristics of PSCs can affect the mitotic machinery and how their suboptimal mitotic fidelity may be circumvented.
Exploring the Neurobiology of Nicotine Dependence and Its Implications for Tobacco Use Treatment: A Literature Review Article
Authors: Saleh Zyad T. , Altarawneh Falah Zaal , Elshatarat Rami Azmi , Alahmadi Hanadi A. , Al-Za’areer Majed S. , Yacoub Mohammed I. , Elneblawi Nora Helmi , Saifan Ahmed , Abdel-Aziz Hassanat R. , Saleh Ahmad
Published: June 2023

The prolonged exposure to nicotine and the development of nicotine dependence have significant implications for cancer risk. Tobacco use, driven by nicotine addiction, is a major contributing factor to the development of various types of cancer. Smoking tobacco, in particular, has been strongly associated with an increased risk of lung cancer, as well as other malignancies. The harmful chemicals present in tobacco products, including carcinogens, can cause DNA damage and promote the initiation and progression of cancerous cells. This article presents a comprehensive literature review on the neurobiology of nicotine dependence and its implications for tobacco use treatment. Nicotine dependence is a complex phenomenon involving various neurobiological mechanisms. When nicotine enters the body, it binds to nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in the brain's reward circuitry, triggering the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine. Over time, repeated nicotine exposure leads to neuroadaptive changes in the brain, resulting in increased motivation to seek and use the drug. Understanding the neurobiology of nicotine dependence is crucial for developing effective treatment strategies. Pharmacological interventions, such as nicotine replacement therapy and medications like bupropion and varenicline, can help individuals manage cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Additionally, behavioral therapies and counseling play a vital role in enhancing self-efficacy and providing support for smoking cessation efforts. By reviewing the existing literature, this article sheds light on the intricate neural pathways and processes involved in nicotine addiction. It emphasizes the importance of a multidimensional approach that combines pharmacological treatments and behavioral interventions to address the physiological and psychological aspects of nicotine dependence. This knowledge can inform the development of more targeted and personalized treatment approaches to help individuals overcome tobacco addiction and improve their chances of successful smoking cessation.
Highly Sensitive and Specific Detection of Influenza A Viruses Using Bimolecular Fluorescence Complementation (BiFC) Reporter System
Authors: Lee Ui Jin , Oh Yunkwang , Kwon Oh Seok , Shin Yong-Beom , Kim Moonil
Published: June 2023

Herein, we developed a highly sensitive and specific bimolecular fluorescence complementation (BiFC)-based influenza A virus (IAV) sensing system created by combining a galactose/glucose-binding protein (GGBP) with an N-terminal large domain (YN1-172) and a C-terminal small domain (YC173-239) of enhanced yellow fluorescence protein (eYFP). The GGBP-based BiFC reporter exhibits the fluorescence reconstitution as a result of conformational changes in GGBP when lactose, derived from 6’-silalyllactose used as a substrate for neuraminidase (NA), binds to GGBP in the presence of IAV. The system showed a linear dynamic range from 1 x 100 TCID50/mL to 1 x 107 TCID50/mL, with a detection limit of 4 x 101 TCID50/mL for IAV (H1N1), demonstrating ultra-high sensitivity. Our system exhibited fluorescence intensity enhancements in the presence of IAV, while displaying weak fluorescence signals when exposed to NA-deficient viruses such as RSV A, RSV B, adenovirus and rhinovirus, thereby indicating selective responses for IAV detection. Taken together, our system provides a simple, highly sensitive and specific IAV detection platform based on BiFC capable of detecting the ligand-induced protein conformational changes, obviating the need for virus culture or RNA extraction processes.
Advances in Understanding Fibrosis: Mechanisms, Clinical Implications, Current Therapies, and Prospects for Future Interventions
Authors: Ku Jennifer C. , Raiten Jacob , Li Yong
Published: June 2023

Fibrosis is a prevalent and detrimental condition associated with various diseases with a high impact on global morbidity and mortality rates. Despite its diverse causes and affected organs, common underlying mechanisms drive the development and progression of the disease. These mechanisms include an exaggerated inflammatory response, excessive activation of fibroblasts, and abnormal tissue remodeling following severe or repetitive tissue injury. Although significant advancements have been achieved to enhance our understanding of fibrosis, there is still a gap between identifying potential antifibrotic targets and successfully translating them into effective clinical interventions. Novel approaches that target specific cellular and molecular processes involved in fibrosis hold promise for reducing the pathological consequences of the disease. Understanding the pathogenesis and clinical implications of fibrotic diseases is crucial for developing effective therapeutic strategies and improving patient outcomes. In this review, we introduce the concept of fibrosis, discuss the mechanisms by which it arises, and explore existing and emerging therapeutic approaches in development.
Leakage Currents Measurements of Surge Arresters
Authors: Olesz Marek , Litzbarski Leszek Slawomir , Redlarski Grzegorz
Published: June 2023

The paper presents the methods of assessing the technical condition of varistor surge arresters used in laboratory tests and in operation - performed without disconnecting the arresters from the network. The analysis of diagnostic methods was supplemented with the results of measurements of the leakage current of arresters coming directly from production and used in the power industry. Among the available methods of evaluating the technical condition of arresters, mainly indicator solutions (temperature, operation counter) and using the measurement of selected parameters of the leakage current are used. In the latter, the method of determining the resistive component of the leakage current, determined on the basis of the analysis of voltage and current waveforms, or only the arrester current, has become widespread. In this type of measurements, current clamps are used in operation, and additionally in voltage measurements from voltage transformers, where you have to take into account the fundamental, additional sources of errors discussed in the article. These errors and dispersion resulting from the production technology may fundamentally hinder the proper assessment of the technical condition, hence it is so important to properly recognize the listed basic sources of measurement uncertainty. In addition, the analysis should take into account three factors related to external conditions - temperature, voltage applied to the arrester and the content of higher harmonics in the supply voltage for which appropriate methods have been provided to determine the active component of the leakage current for reference conditions.
Application of the Graphic Organizer Method in Improving Students' Reading Comprehension of Narrative Text
Authors: Rizqi Abdul Majid  , Riyadi Arie Rahkmat , Kurniawan Haviz
Published: June 2023

This research addresses the issue of students struggling with reading and comprehending narrative texts. Its objective is to enhance the reading comprehension of 5th-grade elementary school students by employing the graphic organizer method. This method emphasizes the creation of concept maps or charts to aid in understanding the narrative texts. The research follows a classroom action research approach, consisting of two cycles with one meeting each. Each cycle involves lesson planning, implementation, and assessment using teaching modules. The findings reveal that in the first cycle, out of 20 students evaluated, 10 achieved scores above the passing grade, while 10 scored below it. Consequently, a second cycle of learning was conducted. In the second cycle, out of 28 students, 23 obtained scores above the passing grade, with 5 scoring below it. Thus, 82% of the students attained scores above the passing grade. These results highlight the effectiveness of the graphic organizer method in improving the reading comprehension of narrative texts among 5th-grade elementary school students.
ANALISIS MODEL PELATIHAN DI LKP KURSUS & RUMAH JAHIT IIN, JATI MAKMUR, KOTA BINJAI
Authors: Adilla Diva Ayu , Aulia Annisa Khalikah , Saragih Putri Amelia , Sirait Wilma Winanda , Rahma Yulia , Hasibuan Jubaidah
Published: June 2023

Tujuan dilakukannya penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui dan menganalisis bagaimana pelaksaan model pelatihan yang digunakan pada LKP Kursus & Rumah jahit IIN. Jenis Penelitian yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah penelitian kualitatif. Tempat penelitian ini dilakukan di  Jl. Nibung 1 No. 9, Jati Makmur, Kec. Binjai Utara, Kota Binjai, Sumatera Utara. Adapun metode pengumpulan data dengan teknik wawancara dan teknik dokumentasi. Teknik analisis data dilakukan dengan menggunakan teknik deskriptif. Dengan hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa 1). LKP Kursus & Rumah jahit IIN  merupakan lembaga pelatihan yang melaksanakan program pelatihan menjahit, 2). LKP Kursus & Rumah jahit IIN dalam penerapannya menggunakan model pelatihan deduktif, 3). LKP Kursus & Rumah Jahit IIN dalam penerapannya menyampaikan teori 30% dan praktek 70%, 4). LKP Kursus & Rumah jahit IIN berdasar pada proses dan materi latihan menggunakan model latihan ketrampilan kerja.
Probability theory as a logic for modelling the measurement process
Authors: Rossi Giovanni Battista , Crenna Francesco , Berardengo Marta
Published: June 2023

The problem of the nature of probability has been drawn to the attention of the measurement community in the comparison between the frequentist and the Bayesian views, in the expression and the evaluation of measurement uncertainty. In this regard, it is here suggested that probability can be interpreted as a logic for developing models of measurement capable of accounting for uncertainty. This contributes to regard measurement theory as an autonomous discipline, rather than a mere application field for statistics. Following a previous work in this line of research, where only measurement representations, through the various kinds of scales, were considered, here the modelling of the measurement process is discussed and the validity of the approach is confirmed, which suggests that the vision of probability as a logic could be adopted for the entire measurement theory. With this approach, a deterministic model can be turned into probabilistic by simply shifting from a deterministic to a probabilistic semantic.
Applicability of multiple impulse-radar sensors for the recognition of a person’s action
Authors: Mazurek Pawel , Kruszewski Szymon
Published: June 2023

The research reported in this paper is devoted to the impulse-radar technology when applied for non-intrusive monitoring of elderly persons. Specifically, this study is focused on a novel approach to the interpretation of data acquired by means of multiple impulse-radar sensors, leading to the determination of features to be used for the recognition of a monitored person’s actions. The measurement data are ﬁrst transformed into the three-dimensional coordinates of the monitored person; next, those coordinates are used as a basis for determination of features characterising the movement of that person. The results of the experimentation, based on the real-world data, show that multiple impulse-radar sensors may be successfully used for highly accurate recognition of actions such as walking, sitting, and lying down, although this accuracy is significantly affected by the quality of the three-dimensional movement trajectories which in turn is affected by the configuration of the impulse-radar sensors within the monitored area.
A low-cost table-top robot platform for measurement science education in robotics and artificial intelligence
Authors: Zangl Hubert , Anandan Narendiran , Kafrana Ahmed
Published: June 2023

Robotics and artificial intelligence represent highly interdisciplinary fields, which – in particular on the bachelor level - makes providing a strong fundamental background in the education challenging. With respect to lab exercises in measurement, one approach to provide interdisciplinary hands-on experience is to embed experiments for measurement science in a robotic context. We present a low-cost robot platform that can be used to address several measurement science and sensor topics, and also other aspects such as machine learning, actuators and mechanics. The 3D printed chassis can be equipped with different sensors for environment perception but also be adapted to different embedded PC platforms. In order to also introduce concepts of robot simulation and realization approaches in a hands-on fashion, the table-top robot is also available as a digital twin in the simulation environments Gazebo and CoppeliaSim®, where, e.g., limitations of simulations and required adaption of models to consider non ideal effects of sensors can be studied.
Sample volume length and registration accuracy assessment in quality controls of PW Doppler diagnostic systems: a comparative study
Authors: Fiori Giorgia , Bocchetta Gabriele , Conforto Silvia , Sciuto Salvatore Andrea , Scorza Andrea
Published: June 2023

In clinical diagnostics, Pulsed Wave (PW) Doppler is one of the most used spectral Doppler techniques since it provides quantitative information about the severity of several cardiac disorders. Therefore, routine quality control tests should be scheduled to check whether a proper level of performance is maintained over time. Despite continuous research in the field, performance evaluation of Doppler equipment is still an open issue. Therefore, the present study is focused on the comparative investigation based on a test parameter for the automatic analysis of faults in sample volume length and range gate registration accuracy. The Velocity Profile Discrepancy Index (VPDI) provides a quantitative estimation according to the agreement between the theoretical parabolic velocity profile and the measured one. The index was assessed through an automatic method that post-processes PW spectrogram images acquired at six sample volume depths with respect to the vessel radius of a Doppler reference device. Tests were repeated for three brand-new ultrasound diagnostic systems, equipped with convex and phased array probes, in two working conditions. From the analysis of the results, a lower discrepancy between the measured and the theoretical velocity profile was found for the convex array probes as well as a lower uncertainty contribution.
Extraction of a floor plan from a points cloud: some metrological considerations
Authors: D'Emilia Giulio , Chiominto Luciano , Gaspari Antonella , Marsella Stefano , Marzoli Marcello , Natale Emanuela
Published: June 2023

The design of evacuation plans for safety purposes is based on the graphical synthesis and visualization of data derived from high-performance measurement systems. The data post-processing requires some suitable procedures including many steps, to obtain the information needed. These are related to the global use of the measurement system, to the real measurement operating conditions, to the complexity of the building, to the simplifying hypotheses, to the data management. As a preliminary step, this work outlines a procedure for extracting a floor plan from a points cloud acquired by means of a laser scanner. The test case is a baroque cathedral, being a large structure and presenting some elements of irregular geometry. Some critical passages have been examined, presenting similar widths but different characteristics i.e., flat and regular geometries of the elements on the walls, in some cases, statues, columns and adornments, in some others. The data management plays a key-role in the correct interpretation of the outcomes, having a great impact on the results reliability. The obtained estimated variability of the passage width is in the order of few tenth centimeters. This is strictly related to the specific operating procedure. How this affects simulation software for route optimization of emergency paths will be the object of further investigations.
The role of metrology in the cyber-security of embedded devices
Authors: Arpaia Pasquale , Caputo Francesco , Cioffi Antonella , Esposito Antonio
Published: June 2023

The cyber-security of an embedded device is a crucial issue especially in the Internet of Things (IoT) paradigm, since the physical accessibility to the smart transducers eases an attacker to eavesdrop the exchanged messages. In this manuscript, the role of metrology in improving the characterization and security testing of embedded devices is discussed in terms of vulnerability testing and robustness evaluation. The presented methods ensure an accurate assessment of the device’s security by relying on statistical analysis and design of experiments. A particular focus is given on power analysis by means of a scatter attack. In this context, the metrological approach contributes to guaranteeing the confidentiality and integrity of the data exchanged by IoT transducers.
Electroencephalography correlates of fear of heights in a virtual reality environment
Authors: Apicella Andrea , Barbato Simone , Barradas Chacόn Luis Alberto , D'Errico Giovanni , De Paolis Lucio Tommaso , Maffei Luigi , Massaro Patrizia , Mastrati Giovanna , Moccaldi Nicola , Pollastro Andrea , Wriessenegger Selina Christin
Published: June 2023

An electroencephalography (EEG)-based classification system of three levels of fear of heights is proposed. A virtual reality (VR) scenario representing a canyon was exploited to gradually expose the subjects to fear inducing stimuli with increasing intensity. An elevating platform allowed the subjects to reach three different height levels. Psychometric tools were employed to initially assess the severity of fear of heights and to assess the effectiveness of fear induction. A feasibility study was conducted on eight subjects who underwent three experimental sessions. The EEG signals were acquired through a 32-channel headset during the exposure to the eliciting VR scenario. The main EEG bands and scalp regions were explored in order to identify which are the most affected by the fear of heights. As a result, the gamma band, followed by the high-beta band, and the frontal area of the scalp resulted the most significant. The average accuracies in the within-subject case for the three-classes fear classification task, were computed. The frontal region of the scalp resulted particularly relevant and an average accuracy of (68.20 ± 11.60) % was achieved using as features the absolute powers in the five EEG bands. Considering the frontal region only, the most significant EEG bands resulted to be the high-beta and gamma bands achieving accuracies of (57.90 ± 10.10) % and of (61.30 ± 8.43) %, respectively. The Sequential Feature Selection (SFS) confirmed those results by selecting for the whole set of channels, in the 48.26 % of the cases the gamma band and in the 22.92 % the high-beta band and by achieving an average accuracy of (86.10 ± 8.29) %.
The experience gained from implementing an ISO 56000-based innovation management system
Authors: Gueorguiev Tzvetelin
Published: June 2023

The aim of this paper is to share the experience gained from an early adoption of the ISO 56000 series of standards for innovation management systems. The University of Ruse is among the first universities in Bulgaria to implement an ISO 9001 quality management system. Later this system is updated and extended with elements of ISO 21001:2018- management systems for educational organizations. Since 2020 the Technology Transfer and Intellectual Property Centre (TTIPC) at the University of Ruse has implemented a number of requirements and guidelines of the ISO 56000 series of standards. The foundation of the integrated management system is ISO 56002:2019 with guidance for innovation management. The principles for innovation management from ISO 56000:2020 are being followed while implementing key methods and tools from ISO 56003:2019 for innovation partnership, ISO/TR 56004:2019 for innovation management assessment, ISO 56005:2020 for intellectual property management, and ISO 56006:2021 for strategic intelligence.
A method to consider a maximum admissible risk in decision-making procedures based on measurement results
Authors: Ferrero Alessandro , Jetti Harsha Vardhana , Ronaghi Sina , Salicone Simona
Published: June 2023

Measurement uncertainty plays a very important role ensuring validity of decision-making procedures, since it is the main source of incorrect decisions in conformity assessment. The guidelines given by the actual Standards allow one to take a decision of conformity or non-conformity, according to the given limit and measurement uncertainty associated to the measured value. Due to measurement uncertainty, a risk of a wrong decision is always present, and the Standards also give indications on how to evaluate this risk, although they mostly refer to a normal probability density function to represent the distribution of values that can be reasonably attributed to the measurand. Since such a function is not always the one that best represents this distribution of values, this paper considers some of the most-often used probability density functions and derives simple formulas to set the acceptance (or rejection) limits in such a way that a pre-defined maximum admissible risk is not exceeded.
Evaluating chemometric strategies and machine learning approaches for a miniaturized near-infrared spectrometer in plastic waste classification
Authors: Marchesi Claudio , Rani Monika , Federici Stefania , Lancini Matteo , Depero Laura Eleonora
Published: June 2023

Optimizing the sorting of plastic waste plays a crucial role in improving the recycling process. In this contribution, we report on a comparative study of multiple machine learning and chemometric approaches to categorize a data set derived from the analysis of plastic waste performed with a handheld spectrometer working in the Near-Infrared (NIR) spectral range. Conducting a cost-effective NIR study requires identifying appropriate techniques to improve commodity identification and categorization. Chemometric techniques, such as Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Partial Least Squares - Discriminant Analysis (PLS - DA), and machine learning techniques such as Support- Vector Machines (SVM), fine tree, bagged tree, and ensemble learning were compared. Various pre-treatments were tested on the collected NIR spectra. In particular, Standard Normal Variate (SNV) and Savitzky-Golay derivatives as signal pre-processing tools were compared with feature selection techniques such as multiple Gaussian Curve Fit based on Radial Basis Functions (RBF). Furthermore, results were combined into a single predictor by using a likelihood-based aggregation formula. Predictive performances of the tested models were compared in terms of classification parameters such as Non-Error Rate (NER) and Sensitivity (Sn) with the analysis of the confusion matrices, giving a broad overview and a rational means for the selection of the approach in the analysis of NIR data for plastic waste sorting.
Talagha: Marketing Communications for Integrated Coastal Tourism Branding
Authors: Rakhmawati Yuliana , Wijayani Qoniah Nur , Indiyati Diah , Novianti Evi
Published: June 2023

Madura has beach comparative potential as a coastal tourist destination. However, in the marketing communications context, this potential has not been optimized. Therefore, this research aims to explore all the potential for integrated coastal tourism by using the Talagha acronym of Talang Siring, Legend, Jumiang, and Lembung branding identity as an alternative to marketing communication. The Talagha brand identity not only being as destinations acronym but also the equivalent of lake in Madurese. Research locations were conducted on four Pamekasan coastal tourism destinations in Madura, namely Talang Siring Beach, Jumiang Beach, Legend Beach, and Mangruve Lembung. Research population are visitors and residents around the destinations. Samples were obtained using accidental sampling. Based on target population characteristics, as two hundres samples were acquired. Data collection were conducted by survey and analyzed by using SPSS. The results show that Talagha tagline as a brand identity is agreed by majority respondents to be part of integrated tourism branding. The findings confirmed by branding strategies theory as a part of tourist destination marketing communications. This findings are expected to be a catalyst in brand identity usage in tourist destination marketing communications development. It is recommended these findings as literature in brand destination studies as well as reaches triple helix in developing policies brief related to Madura’s integrated coastal tourism branding.
Optimized Engineering and Drilling Practices Help Break Record for Extended-Reach Well
Authors: Carpenter Chris
Published: June 2023

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This article, written by JPT Technology Editor Chris Carpenter, contains highlights of paper SPE 204550, “Breaking ERD Records With Optimized Engineering and Practices: Making the Impossible Possible,” by Hussien Alzaki, SPE, Saudi Aramco; Nadhir Rahmani, Schlumberger; and Matthew Carr, K&M Technology Group. The paper has not been peer reviewed.

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The complete paper describes preplanning, execution, and results of extended-reach drilling (ERD) with a large-bore design of 12¼ in. as the main stepout section and deploying 9⅝-in. casing on a shallow true vertical depth (TVD) of 4,200 ft. Progressive increase of ERD ratio and complexity from one well to the next was planned and executed until a record-breaking well had been achieved, deploying 8 km of 9⅝-in. casing with a 5.4 ERD ratio at 26,179 ft total depth (TD) horizontally all the way.

Planning Consideration and Risk Assessment

The presented ERD campaign was unusual because of its combined ERD ratio and very shallow TVD for the long horizontal sections. In addition to the obligation to reach the targeted formation in a 12¼-in. hole, complex challenges were addressed, such as the obligation to kick off and drill large holes (12¼-in. horizontal hole section and 9⅝-in. casing) up to a 5.4:1 ERD ratio at 4,200 ft (approximately 1,300 m) TVD.

The solution involved implementation of technically modeled engineered solutions that were verified during execution. Operational procedures included the following:

- Proper planning and execution of well profiles to ensure optimal placement in a specific formation and minimum side force

- Drilling and tripping procedures to ensure the lowest friction factor (FF) and allow drilling to TD with a limited rig capability

- Engineered solutions for casing-running technologies, which involved rotation and conventional running and flotation

Following risk assessment and the multiple peer reviews made for the subject well, a drilling plan was established that addressed the anticipated main limitations, which included the following:

- Bottomhole assembly (BHA) and drillstring design to allow reaching TD within optimal rig capacities

- Bit selection to reduce the number of

- runs needed to two (three maximum if a contingency were to be considered)

- Total dissolved solids (TDS) torque-limit management (30,000 lbf-ft at 180 rev/min)

- A rig-pumping pressure limit of 4,600 psi

- Hole-cleaning and FF management to prepare for deployment of 9⅝-in. casing
Is the soil dry density important when using TDR?
Authors: Technion Shay Nachum
Published: June 2023

The use of Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR) to monitor soil water content at either field or laboratory scales is highly common. Regarding the soil bulk density effect on the TDR application, three main approaches are found in the literature: [1] Ignore the density issue and use calibration to a evaluate the water content regardless of the density. This approach is early and basic - yet common. [2] Include soil density in the calibration equation and use empirical calibration for the water content as a function of both the TDR output and soil density. In this approach, the soil density should be provided from a outsource. [3] Calibrate the soil dry density from the TDR waveform. In this case both water content and dry density are determined from the TDR analysis. In cases where the dry density is not available, in order to use TDR for water content measurement, a decision has to be made whether to address the density issue, despite it is requires resources, or not. This paper reviews this issue and validates the density effect using an efficient TDR calibration methodology. A calibration scheme which controls dry density of the specimen has been developed and applied. The methodology creates continuous calibration curves over a range of volumetric water content from a single test specimen. This paper presents a unique examination of the ASTM D6780 standard.
Transport of Bisphenol A, Bisphenol S and three Bisphenol F isomers in saturated soils
Authors: Zi Shaoxin , Xu Jiale , Zhang Yingxin , Wu Di , Liu Jin
Published: June 2023

With the limitation of the use of bisphenol A (BPA), the production of its substitutes, bisphenol S (BPS) and bisphenol F (4,4’-BPF) is increasing. Understanding the fate and transport of BPA and its substitutes in porous media can help reduce their risk of contaminating soil and groundwater systems. In this study, column and batch adsorption experiments were performed with 14C-labeled bisphenol analogs and combined with mathematical models to investigate the interaction of BPA, BPS, 4,4’-BPF, 2,2’-BPF and 2,4’-BPF with four standard soils with different soil organic matter (SOM) contents. The results show that the transport capacity of BPS and 4,4’-BPF in the saturated soils is significantly stronger than that of BPA. Meanwhile, the mobility of the three isomers of bisphenol F (2,2’-BPF, 2,4’-BPF and 4,4’-BPF) showed some variability in saturated soils with high SOM content. The two-site kinetic retention mode was applied to simulate and interpret experimental data, and model simulations described the interactions between the bisphenol analogs and soil very well. The fitting results show that SOM provides more adsorption sites for bisphenol analogs and these adsorption sites may be irreversible adsorption sites. For the different mobility of bisphenol analogs, hydrophobicity is the main factor leading to the difference in adsorption affinity between BPA, BPS, 4,4’-BPF and soil. The main factor leading to the difference of adsorption affinity between 4,4’-BPF and its isomers (2,2’-BPF and 2,4’-BPF) and soil may be hydrogen bonding force. In addition, the results of this study show that the relatively high mobility of BPA substitutes BPS and 4,4’-BPF may pose a significant risk to groundwater quality, so 4,4’-BPF and BPS may not be environmentally friendly alternatives to BPA. In addition, as by-products of 4,4’-BPF production, 2,2’-BPF and 2,4’-BPF have high mobility in soil and may pose a more significant threat to groundwater than 4,4’-BPF.
Vehicle routing problem with time windows considering carbon emission
Authors: Lou Ping , Zhou Zikang , Zeng Yuhang , Fan Chuannian
Published: June 2023

Logistics and transportation industry is not only a major energy consumer, but also a major carbon emitter. Developing green logistics is the only way for the sustainable development of logistics industry. One of the main factors of environmental pollution is caused by carbon emissions in the process of vehicle transportation, and carbon emissions of vehicle transportation is closely related to routing, time-dependent speed and the slope of road. Therefore, vehicle routing problem with time windows considering carbon emissions is presented in this paper. a mixed integer programming model is built to describe the carbon emission optimization problem under the constraint of time windows. In this programming model, the high-granularity predictive speeds are used to compute carbon emissions. And to solve this problem, a hybrid genetic algorithm with adaptive variable neighborhood search method is presented. A case study with the logistics and traffic data in Jingzhou, China is validated, and the results shows that the effectiveness of the proposed model and algorithm.
de Haas–van Alphen oscillation reveals nontrivial Fermi surface topology in Kagome superconductor CsTi3Bi5
Authors: Dong Xiaoli , Zhang Yuhang , Yi Xinwei , Zhao Zhen , Liu Jiali , Liu Ziyi , Xu Aini , Li Dong , Lu Zouyouwei , Ma Sheng , Liu Yue , Lu Jihu , Zhang Hua , Chen Hui , Li Shiliang , Cheng Jinguang , Su Gang , Yang Haitao , Gao Hong-Jun , Zhao Zhongxian
Published: June 2023

The Kagome lattice, naturally encompassing Dirac fermions, flat bands, and van Hove singularities, tends to intertwine exotic electronic states. Revealing the characteristics of its Fermi surface will help on clarifying the nature of the complex quantum phenomena in kagome material. Here we report the Fermi surface properties of the new kagome superconductor CsTi3Bi5 by the de Haas–van Alphen oscillations. The observed oscillations are clear and consist of six principal frequencies ranging from 214 T to 1013 T. The angular dependence of the frequency implies a quasi-two-dimensional electronic structure. In addition, the Berry phase corresponding to 281 T, determined by the Landau level fan diagram method and full Lifshitz-Kosevich formula fitting, yields a value close to π, which indicates a band structure with nontrivial topological property. These results underscore the potential of CsTi3Bi5 as a promising new platform to explore the interplay between topological order, electronic nematicity, and superconductivity.
Interviewer judgment-making as a social practice: Insights from an institutional observational study in postgraduate selection
Authors: Roberts Chris , Annette Burgess , Mossman Karyn , Kumar Koshila
Published: June 2023

Background Interviewers’ judgements play a critical role in competency-based assessments for selection such as the multiple-mini-interview. ((MMI) Much of the published research focuses on the psychometrics of selection and the impact of rater subjectivity. Within the context of selecting for entry into specialty postgraduate training, we used an interpretivist and socio-constructivist approach to explore how and why interviewers make judgments in high stakes selection settings whilst participating in a multiple-mini-interview (MMI).Methods We explored MMI interviewers’ work processes through an institutional observational approach, based on the notion that interviewers’ judgements are socially constructed and mediated by multiple factors. We gathered data through document analysis, and observations of interviewer training, candidate interactions with interviewers, and interviewer meetings. Interviews included informal encounters in a large selection centre. Data analysis balanced description and explicit interpretation of the meanings and functions of the interviewers’ actions and behaviours.Results Three themes were developed from the data showing how interviewers make professional judgements, specifically by; ‘Balancing interplay of rules and agency,’ ‘Participating in moderation and shared meaning making; and ‘A culture of reflexivity and professional growth.’ Interviewers balanced the following of institutional rules with making judgment choices based on personal expertise and knowledge. They engaged in dialogue, moderation, and shared meaning with fellow interviewers which enabled their consideration of multiple perspectives of the candidate’s performance. Interviewers engaged in self-evaluation and reflection throughout, with professional learning and growth as primary care physicians and supervisors being an emergent outcome.Conclusion This institutional observational study of interviewers at work in an MMI gives rich insight into the social and contextual nature of judgment-based decision-making in the postgraduate selection process, and emergent outcomes relating to the professional growth of interviewers. Reframing interviewer judgement-making as a social practice provides ways to re-design approaches to interviewer training and selection tool design.
A spectrum of nonsense-mediated mRNA decay efficiency along the degree of mutational constraint
Authors: Kim Jong-Won , Kim Young-gon , Kang Hyunju , Lee Beomki , Jang Hyeok-Jae , Park Jong-ho , Ha Changhee , Park Hogun
Published: June 2023

A landmark study has proposed several factors on nonsense-mediated mRNA decay (NMD) efficiency using matched genome and transcriptome data of human cancer but was highly affected by random variance caused by the indirect measure of NMD efficiency. In this study, using a more direct, allele-specific expression-based measure of NMD efficiency, a more precise NMD efficiency model was developed. Combining this model with the public germline variant database stratified by allele frequency, we showed that there is a spectrum of NMD efficiency, from common variants to somatic variants in the cancer genome. The spectrum in NMD efficiency was also evident from the change in the gene-level mutational constraint measured by the loss-of-function observed/expected upper bound fraction (LOEUF). Based on the clear association observed between the NMD efficiency and LOEUF, we propose that NMD may be a key player in shaping the landscape of gene-level mutational constraint.
Research and Experiment on the Trenching Performance on Orchard Trenching Device
Authors: ma chen , meng hewei , zhang jian , zhang cong , zhao ying , Wang LiHong
Published: June 2023

The theory analysis of trenching cutting operation was carried out to find out the law of the influence of the cutter head combination and working parameters on the operation of the disc trenching device. The influence of trenching parameters on trenching trajectory, performance and quality was obtained. The response surface method was applied to design and carry out field experiments. With the increase of cutter head speed and forward speed, the width and depth of trenching and the thickness of floating soil at the bottom of trenching decreased first and then increased, while the operation power consumption presented the increasing trend gradually. The optimization model of trenching performance quality was constructed to obtain the optimal parameter combination of influencing factors. Field experiments were carried out to verify the optimization results. The results showed that the optimization model could meet the operation quality indexes, and provide a theoretical basis for the design of the disc subsection cutting trenching device to select the operation parameter combination required by low power consumption and deep trenching.
Prevalence and Determinants of Intimate Partner Violence Among Antenatal Care Attendees in Case of Adama Hospital Medical College
Authors: Bedada Tigist , Girma Fraol , Bayissa Dereje , Lemma Legese
Published: June 2023

Background: Intimate partner violence is one of the most common forms of violence against women and includes physical, sexual and emotional abuse and controlling behaviors by an intimate partner.
Objective: To assess prevalence and determinants of intimate partner violence among ANC attendees in Adama Hospital Medical College in Adama, Shewa, Ethiopia.
Methods: Institution based cross sectional study design was conducted from January 01, 2022 to March 15; 2022.A total of 409 pregnant women attending ANC at Adama Hospital Medical College was included in the study by systematic random sampling technique. Data were collected using structured interview-administered questionnaire. Then data were entered and analyzed by SPSS version 22. Binary and multiple logistic regression analysis were done to identify factors associated with intimate partner violence at a p-value of less than 0.05 were considered to declare significance of association.
Result: The overall prevalence of intimate partner violence during current pregnancy was 167 (40.8%) (95%CI: 36.2–45.7). Psychological/emotional violence (39.9%) was the most common followed by sexual (34.7%), Economic violence (34.7%), Physical (23.2%) and controlling behavior violence (22.4%). The proportion of overlap in all five type of violence accounts 28(6.8%), overlap in three (physical, sexual and psychological violence) were 72(17.6%) and overlap in two commonest sexual and psychological violence accounts 115(28.1%). (Among several possible factors: age of women above years 36 years [AOR]: 1.9(1.05, 3.392)], Being rural residence [AOR]: 5.5(2.96, 10.02)], partner Having another partner or wife [AOR]: 3.4(1.64, 7.1)] and undesired pregnancy [AOR]:13.7(5.79, 32.3)] were determinants of IPV.
Conclusion and Recommendation: This study determined intimate partner violence was high (40.8%) and also this study identified that overlap by at least two types violence among these population were 28.1%.Among several possible factors: being rural residence, partner having another partner or wife and undesired pregnancy were determinants of IPV.Therefore; Addressing gender inequitable norms, the culture of silence (support) to IPV in the community and women’s reproductive health information through intervention measures are very important to minimize the problem.
A comprehensive analysis of the co-pathogenesis of atrial fibrillation and atherosclerosis based on bioinformatics
Authors: li han , Zhong Guo-Qiang
Published: June 2023

Background: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is closely related to atherosclerosis (AS), but the common mechanism of the two remains unclear, This study aims to further explore the common hub genes and molecular pathways, to elucidate the common mechanisms of AF and AS.
Methods: AF (GSE41177) and AS (GSE28829) data sets were downloaded from the gene expression Synthesis (GEO) database to search for the co-expressed differential genes (EDGs) of AF and AS, and to analyze the enrichment function of common DEGs. The protein-protein Interaction (PPI) network was created using the (STRING) database with Cytoscape software, and the plug-in cytoHubba was used to select hub genes. The central gene was verified in GSE14905 (AF) and GSE100927 (AS), and the enrichment function of the hub gene was analyzed. In four data sets, GSE41177, GSE28829, GSE14905, and GSE100927, subject manipulation characteristic curves were used to evaluate the availability of hub genes.
Results: A total of 42 common DEGs (37 up-regulated genes and 5 down-regulated genes) were selected for analysis. The PPI network was constructed, and 15 key genes of PPI were identified through cytoHubba, and 9 key genes were finally verified, namely NCF2, C1QC, ITGB2, HLA-DRA, TYROBP, VSIG4, FCER1G, LAPTM5, and C1QB. Finally, the ROC curve was used to verify the effectiveness of key genes. In the result table, 9 hub genes had strong diagnostic values.
Conclusions: In our study, we conducted gene differential expression analysis, functional enrichment analysis, and PPI analysis for DEGs in AF and AS, identified key genes in AF and AS, provided potential biomarkers for the identification of AF and AS, revealed the common pathogenesis of AF and AS, and provided new ideas for the treatment of AF combined with AS.
Six minor allele variants in the TERT-CLPTM1L region are associated with lung cancer risk: a meta-analysis based on different ethnicities and different lung cancer subtypes
Authors: Wu Xiaozheng , Li Wen , Luo Zhenliang , Chen Yunzhi
Published: June 2023

Background: Although many genome-wide association studies(GWAS) have confirmed the associations between multiple sites in the TERT-CLPTM1L region and lung cancer(LC) susceptibility in different populations, some of them haven’t found the associations between these sites and LC. The purpose of this study is to clarify the associations between TERT-CLPTM1L polymorphism and LC, as well as the differences in these associations between patients of different ethnicities and different LC subtypes.
Methods: Relevant literatures published before May 7, 2022 on ‘TERT-CLPTM1L polymorphisms and LC susceptibility’ in PubMed, EMbase,Web of Science, MEDLINE databases were searched through the Internet. Statistical analysis of data was performed in Revman5.3 software, including drawing forest plots, funnel plots and so on. Sensitivity and publication bias analysis were performed in Stata 14.0 software. TSA 0.9.5.10 software was performed for the Trial sequential analysis(TSA) tests to evaluate the stability of the results. Registration number: CRD42023407890.
Results: A total of 51 literatures were included in this meta-analysis, including 6 TERT-CLPTM1L polymorphisms and a total of 54 studies (12 GWAS and 42 case-control studies), including 11 studies in Caucasians and 43 studies in Asians.
The results showed that the minor allele variants of the 6 polymorphisms were positively or negatively associated with the risk of LC (rs2736098[T]: [OR]=1.24, 95% CI [1.18, 1.31]; rs2736100[C]: [OR]=1.25, 95% CI [1.20, 1.30]; rs31489[A]: [OR]=0.87, 95% CI [0.82, 0.92]; rs401681[T]: [OR]=0.87, 95% CI [0.84, 0.90]; rs402710[T]: [OR]=0.86, 95% CI [0.83, 0.88]; rs4975616[G]: [OR]=0.86, 95% CI [0.82, 0.91]). However, there were clear differences in these associations in LC with different pathological subtypes in Caucasian and Asian populations (Subgroup differences: I2≥50%).
Conclusions: Our results confirmed the clear associations between 6 TERT-CLPTM1L polymorphisms and the risk of LC, and there were significant differences in these associations among different ethnicities/pathological subtypes of LC.