bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
تأثير برنامجین تدربین على تحسین رداءة النوم وقدرة الجهاز التنفسي في البالغين في منتصف العمر
Authors: Rahil Abubaker Mohammed
Published: April 2024

الملخص
     
النوم حالة إيقاعية نشطة ومعقدة قد تتأثر بزیادة الوزن (البدانة) و بعملية الشيخوخة.  وأستخدم الباحث المنهج التدريبي وتطبیق الاختبار (القبلي – البعدي) إذ تکونت عینة البحث من (24) من الرجال البالغين تتراوح أعمارهم بين 30-50 عامًا تم تقسيمهم عشوائيًا إلى مجموعتين تجريبية (التدريب المستمر و التدريب الفتري  المنخفض الشدة ) ومجموعة الضابطة. في كل مجموعة ، تم اختيار 8 من عینة البحث بناءً على معايير التضمين والاستبعاد (مثل ، بدون توقف التنفس أثناء النوم ، وعدم التدخين ، وعدم تناول الأدوية المنومة). وکذلك ، تم تقييم جميع الأشخاص من قبل طبيب لتأكيد صحتهم الجسدية والعقلية. أيضًا ، تم الحصول على الحد الأقصى لمعدل ضربات القلب (MaxHR) للأشخاص عن طريق طرح عمر الفرد من 220. علاوة على ذلك ، بناءً على نوع التمارين الهوائية تم تحدید (50-60٪ MaxHR لمجموعة التدريب المستمر و 60-70٪ MaxHR لمجموعة التدريب الفتري  المنخفض الشدة). يتألف بروتوكول التمرين من 12 أسابيع من التمارين الهوائية (ثلاث جلسات في الأسبوع) ومن أجل قياس جودة النوم تم استخدام مؤشر جودة النوم في بيتسبرغ (PSQI)، وتم إجراء اختبارات وظائف الجهاز التنفسي لقياس قدرة الجهاز التنفسي. وتمت معالجة النتائج: في مرحلة الاختبار القبلي أظهرت النتائج عدم وجود فروق ذات دلالة إحصائية بين المجموعتين التجريبية و الضابطة  في جودة النوم ومكوناته وأیضا في قدرة الجهاز التنفسي (P> 0.05). من ناحية أخرى أظهرت نتائج المرحلة لاختبار البعدی وجود فروق ذات دلالة إحصائية بين المجموعتين التجريبية و الضابطة في هذه المتغيرات (P <0.05). كما أظهر Tukey Post Hoc أن درجات مجموعة التدريب الفتري المنخفض الشدة في نوعية جودة النوم ومكوناته كانت أفضل من المجموعات الأخرى (P <0.05).
Differential activation of basal and IL-7-induced PI3K/Akt/mTOR and JAK/STAT5 signaling distinguishes pediatric from adult acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Fernandes Marta B. , Gomes A. Margarida , Oliveira Mariana L. , Caldas Joana , Lúcio Paulo , Kim Rathana , Caye-Eude Aurélie , Pereira Filomena , De Sousa Aida B. , De Stefano Alessia , Follo Matilde Y. , Soares Maria V. , Lacerda João F. , Desterro Joana , Cavé Hélène , Clappier Emmanuelle , Duarte Ximo , Ribeiro Patrícia , Barata João T.
Published: April 2024

Not available.
Monocyte response to SARS-CoV-2 protein ORF8 is associated with severe COVID-19 infection in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Ruan Gordon J. , Wu Xiaosheng , Gwin Kimberly A. , Manske Michelle K , Abeykoon Jithma P. , Bhardwaj Vaishali , Witter Taylor L. , Schellenberg Matthew J. , Rabe Kari G , Kay Neil E. , Parikh Sameer A. , Witzig Thomas E.
Published: April 2024

The open reading frame 8 (ORF8) protein, encoded by the SARS-CoV-2 virus after infection, stimulates monocytes/macrophages to produce pro-inflammatory cytokines. We hypothesized that a positive ex vivo monocyte response to ORF8 protein pre-COVID-19 would be associated with subsequent severe COVID-19. We tested ORF8 ex vivo on peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from 26 anonymous healthy blood donors and measured intracellular cytokine/chemokine levels in monocytes by flow cytometry. The % monocytes staining positive in the sample and change in mean fluorescence intensity (ΔMFI) after ORF8 were used to calculate the adjusted MFI for each cytokine. We then tested pre-COVID-19 PBMC samples from 60 CLL patients who subsequently developed COVID-19 infection. Severe COVID-19 was defined as hospitalization due to COVID-19. In the 26 normal donor samples, the adjusted MFI for interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-8, and CCL-2 were significantly different with ORF8 stimulation vs controls. We next analyzed monocytes from pre-COVID-19 PBMC samples from 60 CLL patients. The adjusted MFI to ORF8 stimulation of monocyte intracellular IL-1β was associated with severe COVID-19 and a reactive ORF8 monocyte response was defined as an IL- 1β adjusted MFI ≥ 0.18 (sensitivity 67%, specificity 75%). The median time to hospitalization after infection in CLL patients with a reactive ORF8 response was 12 days versus not reached for patients with a non-reactive ORF8 response with a hazard ratio of 7.7 (95% CI: 2.4-132, p=0.005). These results provide new insight on the monocyte inflammatory response to virus with implications in a broad range of disorders involving monocytes.
The Kenosis Of Jesus Christ: Model Of The Christian Life According To Philippians 2:5-11
Authors: Ramarolahy Patricia Josette  , Robijaona Rahelivololoniaina Baholy
Published: April 2024

In the ancient city of Philippi, resonant with echoes of a bygone prosperity, the apostle Paul wove an indelible narrative in his epistle to the Philippians. Penned during his Roman imprisonment, this literary masterpiece, nestled within the realm of captivity epistles, expresses gratitude to a church intimately entwined with Paul's challenges. At its core lies a profound theme—the "Kenosis of Jesus Christ," unraveling divine humility as expounded in Philippians 2:5-11. This theological journey delves into diverse interpretations by researchers, spanning epochs from the Church Fathers to contemporary theologians. While the Church Fathers grapple with the dual nature of Jesus, reformers and modern theologians provide nuanced perspectives, revealing the enduring relevance of kenosis. The ramifications of kenosis on Malagasy life manifest in humanitarian salvation, exemplified in the voluntary abasement and subsequent exaltation of Jesus Christ outlined in Philippians 2:5-11. This transformative power extends beyond theological discourse, influencing progress, national reconciliation, and ecclesiastical renewal in the daily life of Madagascar. Examining the compatibility of kenosis with Madagascar's development, we discern its potential as both a tool and an obstacle. As an effective tool, kenosis aligns with the true preaching of the Gospel and the lived experience of humility, fostering a trajectory toward societal flourishing. However, as an obstacle, it is manifested in the tolerance of injustice, conflicting with the current societal situation. Kenosis emerges as a profound concept in Christian theology, inviting believers to embody the humility exemplified by Christ. The theological journey traverses diverse interpretations, illuminating the richness and complexity of this motif. In the context of Madagascar, kenosis catalyzes positive shifts in daily life, national reconciliation, and ecclesiastical renewal. This paradigm offers a transformative pathway for countries in progress, transcending economic metrics to embrace societal flourishing. The compatibility of kenosis with Madagascar's development calls for a recalibration of societal values, blending true Gospel preaching and humility to counter contemporary challenges and embrace the profound meaning of kenosis.
Deteksi Telur Cacing Nematoda Gastrointestinal pada Feses Ayam Broiler (Gallus domesticus) Di Desa Embung Kandong Kecamatan Terare Kabupaten Lombok Timur
Authors: Hadi Ruslan , Supriadi Supriadi
Published: April 2024

Salah satu unggas yang banyak menjadi sumber protein dan mampu meningkatkan kesejateraan peternak adalah ayam broiler. Ayam broiler populer di Indonesia sejak tahun 1990-an. Saat ini ayam broiler telah dikenal oleh masyarakat Indonesia dengan berbagai kelebihan, seperti waktu pemeliharaan yang relatif singkat dan bersifat menguntungkan. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mendeteksi ada atau tidaknya telur cacing nematoda gastrointestinal pada saluran pencernaan ayam broiler. Penelitian ini merupakan jenis penelitian survey deskriptif labolatorik yang berupa deteksi telur cacing nematoda gastrointestinal pada ayam broiler. Rancangan penelitian ini menggunakan cross-sectional studi. Sebanyak Data 29 sampel feses ayam broiler telah dikoleksi secara acak dari lokasi pemeliharaan di Desa Embung Kandong hasil. Seluruh sampel fses kemudian diperiksa dengan menggunakan metode pengapungan gula jenuh. Hasil pemeriksaan 29 feses ayam broiler menunjukkan 13 sampel positif mengandung telur cacing nematoda gastrointestinal. Berdasarkan hasil identifikasi yang telah dilakukan, karakteristik morofologi telur cacing nematoda yang ditemukan merupakan anggota genus Trichostrongylus sp. Hasil ini menunjukkan bahwa ayam broiler di daerah penelitian telah terinfeksi oleh cacing nematoda gastrointestinal. Dominansi cacing Trichostrongylus sp menunjukkan golongan cacing ini sangat cocok dengan kondisi lingkungan di Kawasan pemeliharaan ayam broiler sehingga manajemen pemeliharaan ayam broiler di Kawasan ini perlu ditingkatkan agar dapat menekan infeksi cacing Trichostrongylus sp.
Predator-prey trait associations and feeding preferences of demersal fishes in the southern North Sea
Authors: Ludwig KE , Singer A , Kröncke I , Sell AF
Published: April 2024

In marine ecosystems under ongoing long-term changes, reducing complex food webs to their functionally important properties enables systematic analysis of bottom-up/top-down regulations and species turnover. The assessment of feeding interactions in the form of predator and prey trait associations provides a better understanding of predators’ criteria for prey selection and thus is a promising approach to reduce complexity. Here, we tested RLQ ordination and fourth-corner analysis, complementary multivariate approaches, as tools to identify ecologically relevant associations between the traits of 8 demersal fish species in the southern North Sea and their fish or benthic prey. To scrutinize the trait-based results in their appropriateness to reflect selective feeding behaviour of the predator species, we compared them with a taxon-based electivity index, Chesson’s α. Among 7 predator traits investigated, body tissue composition represented by omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid content was significantly associated with prey traits, being positively correlated with energy density of the prey and negatively with prey of low mobility. Comparisons with the electivity indices showed that the prey preferred by predators corresponded relatively well with the identified prey trait preferences. The results of the tested analysis approach support its use when assessing the mutual dependences of predator and prey populations on a functional level. Provided the data availability and quality of feeding-related traits is sufficiently high, trait-based predator-prey analysis with RLQ and fourth-corner analyses offers new possibilities for understanding food web dynamics in the context of climate-change-induced species distribution shifts.
Thermal and Structural Analysis of A Vascular Cooled Composite Radome
Authors: Frank Geoffrey J. , Massman Jeffrey P. , Barnett Philip R. , Butcher Dennis P.
Published: April 2024

To increase the efficiency of aircraft radome structures, the potential to integrate structural, cooling, and electromagnetic (EM) transmission functions into a composite radome is being investigated. The radome configuration includes micro-channels, used for flow of cooling fluids, and embedded copper layers, used to alter the EM transmission characteristics, incorporated into a composite panel. Concepts have been developed using low dielectric loss composite for manufacturing the multilayer structure required to incorporate these multifunctional characteristics. Structural analyses and conjugate heat transfer analyses have been performed to assess the effects of channel size and position on load-carrying capability and cooling capability. Results from the analyses have been used to identify candidate configurations that will be fabricated. Fabrication concepts and results of the structural and thermal analyses are presented.
Introducing the Swedish Learner English Corpus: a corpus that enables investigations of the impact of extramural activities on L2 writing
Authors: Kaatari Henrik , Wang Ying , Larsson Tove
Published: April 2024

This paper introduces the Swedish Learner English Corpus (slec), which consists of argumentative texts in English that are written by Swedish junior and senior high school students. slec includes rich metadata, enabling empirical studies of various extra-linguistic variables. Most noteworthy is the inclusion of detailed information on students’ extramural English activities (ee), such as reading, watching, conversing, gaming and engaging in social media in English. In addition, a sub-set of texts from slec have been assessed for proficiency using the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (cefr). This paper provides an overview of the corpus compilation process, the metadata, and the available versions of slec. Researchers, teachers and students can access this resource to investigate various aspects of second language use and development, such as the impact of extramural language activities on linguistic complexity.
Validation of helicity-corrected Spalart-Allmaras model for corner separation prediction in incompressible flow with OpenFOAM
Authors: Yu Zhifan , Defoe Jeff
Published: April 2024

Steady Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) computations save significant computational resources compared to unsteady RANS and large eddy simulation (LES). However, the ability of most RANS models to accurately predict flow separation in compressor/fan blade rows is limited. Recent research focused on reducing the computational cost of predicting compressor/fan stall points with steady computations has shown that the helicity-corrected Spalart-Allmaras (SA) turbulence model is able to avoid over-predicting corner separations and thus lead to converged RANS up to the actual stall point. To date, this model has mostly been implemented in in-house codes or in commercial codes as a user add-on, where the source code is not available. In a recent paper, the authors implemented the helicity-corrected SA model in OpenFOAM, an open-source CFD package. In this paper, the differences in the flow field for RANS solutions with the original SA model, the helicity-corrected SA model, and Menter’s shear stress transport (SST) model are highlighted for a linear cascade with incompressible flow. A NACA 65-1810 cascade is used, and computational results are compared to experimental data.
Agronomic performance, genetic variation and heritability of yield and related traits in rice genotypes under upland conditions
Authors: Dianga Al-Imran , Musila Ruth N , Kamau W. J.
Published: April 2024

Although rice production potential under rain fed ecology doubles that of irrigated lowland in Kenya, there has been little advancement in identifying suitable varieties adapted to upland rice ecology. This study was carried out to appraise the agronomic performance, heritability, grain yield components, genetic variability, and correlations for grain yield and identity of suitable varieties for the upland ecology. Eight rice genotypes were evaluated in a randomized complete block design alongside three replicates under upland conditions. Collection of data included days to 50% flowering, height of the plant, productive tillers-1, panicle length, grain length, panicle weight, grains panicle-1, spikelet fertility, grain yield weight of one thousand grains, grain breadth and breadth/ length ratio of the grain. Data analysis involved Analysis of variance, broad sense heritability estimates determination and principal component analysis. Genotype’s variation was significant for all traits measured. The first three principal components accounted for 94.67% of the sum variation among 12 traits under study. The outcome of heritability estimates and the PCA indicated that the characters 50% flowering days, weight of a thousand grains, spikelet fertility, length of the panicle, grain breadth, length of the grain and breadth/length ratio, accounted for most of variance in the variables observed and showed average to high broad sense heritability. Therefore, for these traits, early generation selection was effective in identifying superior genotypes following hybridization. From the eight cultivars used in the study, NERICA 10 and NERICA 2 varieties had better indicators for coastal lowlands of Kenya.
Coverage and usage of insecticidal treated bed-nets for preventing malaria in four peri-urban communities of Ijebu-North, Southwest Nigeria
Authors: Adekunle N. O. , Mogaji O. H. , Oladunjoye Y. R. , Adeleke T. M. , Salisu F. T. , Agbolade O. , Agbolade M. O.
Published: April 2024

Sleeping under insecticidal treated bed-nets has been proven as an effective tool towards preventing mosquito bites and malaria but the burden of malaria cases seems to be on the increase. This study therefore assessed the limiting factors associated with ownership and usage of Long-Lasting Insecticidal Nets (LLINs) in four periurban communities in Ogun State, Nigeria. A total of 499 residents above age 15, were recruited and interviewed at the healthcare facilities in the selected communities using a well-structured questionnaire. Data obtained were analyzed using SPSS 25.0 version for descriptive and chisquare statistics, with significance set at 95%. Of the 499 residents, 72.1% (360/499) owned at least one LLIN, while only 56.7% (204/360) affirmed to sleeping under the bed net. Heat was a major reason for non-usage, 70/135 (51.9%) followed by harboring dust 40/135 (29.6%), skin irritation 16/135 (11.9%) and problem of hanging nets 2/135 (1.5%). There were significance differences between the challenges in the use of LLIN by the respondents and the peri-urban communities (p= 0.000). Majority of the respondents also reported LLIN abuse; 59/93 (63.4%) used them as window or door nets, 13/93 (13.9%) and 13/93 (13.9%) used them as fishing nets and as sieves and sponges respectively. Other uses included using it as a means of protection against rodents on the farm and as football goal nets. There was no significance difference between the abuse of LLINs by the respondents and the peri-urban communities (p= 0.209). The non-usage and abuse of LLIN will dampen the efforts targeted at controlling malaria in the southwestern region of Nigeria. It is therefore important that malaria control programmes incorporate health awareness campaigns targeted at promoting usage and disapproving the abuse of LLINs
On Fuglede – Putnam Theorems for Moore-Penrose Invertible Operators on Hilbert Spaces
Authors: Mwanzia J. M. , Kavila M. , Khalagai J.
Published: April 2024

The Fuglede-Putnam Theorems were first established by Fuglede [1950] and Putnam [1951] where they gave results on bounded operators commuting with normal operators. Fuglede [1950] showed that if...
Covid-19: The Nexus Between Community Lockdown and Upsurge in Crime in Nigeria
Authors: Bello Bashir , Olalekan AYUB Akeem
Published: April 2024

COVID-19 pandemic has been responsible for the current phase of social existence which is characterized with the need for lockdown, social distancing, regular washing of hands and ensuring proper hygiene. Globally, social lives have been adjusted and various measures have been enacted to curb the spread of the virus. Nigeria is not an exception; governments at various levels have put in place measures to avert the spread of the COVID 19 virus. Some of these measures are apparent in the community lockdown and stay at home order instituted. The intention has been to control the spread of the virus and to support the health practitioners in their fight against the spread of the coronavirus pandemic and importantly, to ensure a proper social order. However, Criminals have been exploring the period of the community lockdown to exhibit their latest modus of operandi, thereby engaging in various criminal activities. The instituted community lockdown, which is geared towards containing the spread of the virus, seems to have been hijacked by the criminals and turned into an opportunity to cause civil unrest. Nigeria as a nation has witnessed an increase in the reports of rape cases; kidnapping; armed banditry as well as other security challenges during the lockdown. The increase in the rate of crime and social vices seems to have subverted the fundamental intentions of the government. This paper demonstrates the nexus between community lockdown and upsurge in crimes. Crimes, which should have declined during the lockdown, took another dimension. The lockdown was primarily geared toward reducing criminal activities, however, the mode only changed but the crime did not only continue but increases.
CO2 supply is a powerful tool to control homoacetogenesis, chain elongation and solventogenesis in ethanol and carboxylate fed reactor microbiomes
Authors: de Leeuw Kasper D. , van Willigen Marius J. W. , Vrauwdeunt Ton , Strik David P. P. T. B.
Published: April 2024

Anaerobic fermentation technology enables the production of medium chain carboxylates and alcohols through microbial chain elongation. This involves steering reactor microbiomes to yield desired products, with CO2 supply playing a crucial role in controlling ethanol-based chain elongation and facilitating various bioprocesses simultaneously. In the absence of CO2 supply (Phase I), chain elongation predominantly led to n-caproate with a high selectivity of 96 Cmol%, albeit leaving approximately 80% of ethanol unconverted. During this phase, C. kluyveri and Proteiniphilum-related species dominated the reactors. In Phase II, with low CO2 input (2.0 NmL L−1 min−1), formation of n-butyrate, butanol, and hexanol was stimulated. Increasing CO2 doses in Phase III (6 NmL L−1 min−1) led to CO2 utilization via homoacetogenesis, coinciding with the enrichment of Clostridium luticellarii, a bacterium that can use CO2 as an electron acceptor. Lowering CO2 dose to 0.5 NmL L−1 min−1 led to a shift in microbiome composition, diminishing the dominance of C. luticellarii while increasing C. kluyveri abundance. Additionally, other Clostridia, Proteiniphilum, and Lactobacillus sakei-related species became prevalent. This decrease in CO2 load from 6 to 0.5 NmL L−1 min−1 minimized excessive ethanol oxidation from 30%–50% to 0%–3%, restoring a microbiome favoring net n-butyrate consumption and n-caproate production. The decreased ethanol oxidation coincided with the resurgence of hydrogen formation at partial pressures above 1%. High concentrations of butyrate, caproate, and ethanol in the reactor, along with low acetate concentration, promoted the formation of butanol and hexanol. It is evident that CO2 supply is indispensable for controlling chain elongation in an open culture and it can be harnessed to stimulate higher alcohol formation or induce CO2 utilization as an electron acceptor.
Design of an endoscopic OCT probe based on piezoelectric tube with quartered outside electrodes
Authors: Hu Jinyuan , Wu Sujian , Shi Guohua , Fan Jinyu , Yu Haoyang , Chen Sixu
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a pivotal imaging modality in ophthalmology for real-time, in vivo visualization of retinal structures. To enhance the capability and safety of OCT, this study focuses on the development of a micro intraocular OCT probe. The demand for minimal invasiveness and precise imaging drives the need for advanced probe designs that can access tight and sensitive areas, such as the ocular sclera.

Methods: A novel OCT probe was engineered using a piezoelectric tube with quartered electrodes to drive Lissajous scanning movements at the end of a single-mode fiber. This design allows the probe to enter the eyeball through a scleral opening. Structural innovation enables the outer diameter of the endoscopic OCT probe to be adjusted from 13G (2.41 mm) to 25G (0.51 mm), accommodating various imaging field sizes and ensuring compatibility with different scleral incisions.

Results: The fabricated micro intraocular OCT probe successfully performed preliminary imaging experiments on in vivo fingers. The Lissajous scanning facilitated comprehensive coverage of the target area, enhancing the imaging capabilities.

Discussion: The integration of a piezoelectric tube with quartered outside electrodes into the OCT probe design proved effective for achieving precise control over scanning movements and adaptability to different surgical needs. The design characteristics and practical applications demonstrated the probe’s potential in clinical settings.
A bio-fabricated tesla valves and ultrasound waves-powered blood plasma viscometer
Authors: Chen Wenqin , Xia Mao , Zhu Wentao , Xu Zhiye , Cai Bo , Shen Han
Published: April 2024

Introduction: There is clinical evidence that the fresh blood viscosity is an important indicator in the development of vascular disorder and coagulation. However, existing clinical viscosity measurement techniques lack the ability to measure blood viscosity and replicate the in-vivo hemodynamics simultaneously.

Methods: Here, we fabricate a novel digital device, called Tesla valves and ultrasound waves-powered blood plasma viscometer (TUBPV) which shows capacities in both viscosity measurement and coagulation monitoring.

Results: Based on the Hagen-Poiseuille equation, viscosity analysis can be faithfully performed by a video microscopy. Tesla-like channel ensured unidirectional liquid motion with stable pressure driven that was triggered by the interaction of Tesla valve structure and ultrasound waves. In few seconds the TUBPV can generate an accurate viscosity profile on clinic fresh blood samples from the flow time evaluation. Besides, Tesla-inspired microchannels can be used in the real-time coagulation monitoring.

Discussion: These results indicate that the TUBVP can serve as a point-of-care device in the ICU to evaluate the blood’s viscosity and the anticoagulation treatment.
Polyhydroxy structure orchestrates the intrinsic antibacterial property of acrylamide hydrogel as a versatile wound-healing dressing
Authors: Zhang Lu , Tang Yu-Jiao , Zhang Wen-Qing , Wang Jian , Cai Yu-Jian , Qin Tian-Yi , Zhang Deteng , Wang Zhao-Hui , Wang Ya-Long
Published: April 2024

Hydrogel is considered as a promising candidate for wound dressing due to its tissue-like flexibility, good mechanical properties and biocompatibility. However, traditional hydrogel dressings often fail to fulfill satisfied mechanical, antibacterial, and biocompatibility properties simultaneously, due to the insufficient intrinsic bactericidal efficacy and the addition of external antimicrobial agents. In this paper, hydroxyl-contained acrylamide monomers, N-Methylolacrylamide (NMA) and N-[Tris (hydroxymethyl)methyl] acrylamide (THMA), are employed to prepare a series of polyacrylamide hydrogel dressings xNMA-yTHMA, where x and y represent the mass fractions of NMA and THMA in the hydrogels. We have elucidated that the abundance of hydroxyl groups determines the antibacterial effect of the hydrogels. Particularly, hydrogel 35NMA-5THMA exhibits excellent mechanical properties, with high tensile strength of 259 kPa and large tensile strain of 1737%. Furthermore, the hydrogel dressing 35NMA-5THMA demonstrates remarkable inherent antibacterial without exogenous antimicrobial agents owing to the existence of abundant hydroxyl groups. Besides, hydrogel dressing 35NMA-5THMA possesses excellent biocompatibility, in view of marginal cytotoxicity, low hemolysis ratio, and negligible inflammatory response and organ toxicity to mice during treatment. Encouragingly, hydrogel 35NMA-5THMA drastically promote the healing of bacteria-infected wound in mice. This study has revealed the importance of polyhydroxyl in the antibacterial efficiency of hydrogels and provided a simplified strategy to design wound healing dressings with translational potential.
World futures through RT’s eyes: multimodal dataset and interdisciplinary methodology
Authors: Wilson Anna , Pavlova Irina , Payne Elinor , Burenko Ilya , Uhrig Peter
Published: April 2024

There is a need to develop new interdisciplinary approaches suitable for a more complete analysis of multimodal data. Such approaches need to go beyond case studies and leverage technology to allow for statistically valid analysis of the data. Our study addresses this need by engaging with the research question of how humans communicate about the future for persuasive and manipulative purposes, and how they do this multimodally. It introduces a new methodology for computer-assisted multimodal analysis of video data. The study also introduces the resulting dataset, featuring annotations for speech (textual and acoustic modalities) and gesticulation and corporal behaviour (visual modality). To analyse and annotate the data and develop the methodology, the study engages with 23 26-min episodes of the show ‘SophieCo Visionaries’, broadcast by RT (formerly ‘Russia Today’).
Partitioning QUBO with two-way one-hot conditions on traveling salesman problems for city distributions with multiple clusters
Authors: Yatabe Akihiro
Published: April 2024

We introduce a method for solving a quadratic unconstrained binary optimization (QUBO) with the two-way one-hot constraints by dividing the QUBO into parts and solving it with an Ising machine. The one-hot constraint is a constraint condition in that only one binary variable takes the value one for a set of multiple binary variables. The two-way one-hot constraint imposes one-hot constraint conditions on every row and every column of a two-dimensional array of binary variables with equal numbers of rows and columns. For example, traveling salesman problems (TSPs) have two-way one-hot constraints. We propose two methods to solve a TSP by dividing the cities into clusters based on information in the QUBO matrix. The proposed methods decompose cities into clusters and solve TSPs for each cluster. We solve TSPs such that the cities are distributed in clusters and compare the results of the two proposed methods with the results of solving the problem without partitioning. The results show that the proposed methods are robust to the coefficient parameters in the Hamiltonian of QUBO and can obtain a solution closer to the optimal solution when solving the problem without partitioning is hard. We also discuss the application of the methods proposed in the TSPs to the quadratic assignment problems and to the problems of ordering things.
Using sectional blasting to improve the efficiency of making cut cavities in underground mine workings
Authors: Lozynskyi Vasyl , Yussupov Khalidilla , Rysbekov Kanay , Rustemov Serikbay , Bazaluk Oleg
Published: April 2024

Introduction: The research concerns how making cut cavities improves drilling and blasting operations as well as the optimum parameters to arrange both snubber and auxiliary blastholes.

Methods: The research methods include experimental and industrial activities to identify the optimum depth of the first-section snubber blastholes relative to the second-section blastholes. It also identifies optimum parameters of the snubber blastholes while driving mine workings and ore breaking in stopes with different mine working sections and different rock mass strengths broken using the technique of cut-cavity formation.

Results and Discussion: Experimental explosions executed in a production environment have proved the efficiency of the proposed technique of sectional formation of a cut cavity, which helped increase the blasthole use coefficient (BUC) from 0.88 to 0.97. The depth of the first-section boreholes should be determined relative to the length of the second-section boreholes and the broken rock mass strength. The higher the strength of the broken formation, the larger the ratio between the first and the second-section blasthole lengths should be. The results of the experimental explosions indicate that the depth of first-section snubber blastholes varies from 0.5 and more of the second-section boreholes, depending upon the depth of the latter and the broken rock mass strength. If the strength of the broken rock mass is 12 on the Protodyakonov scale, and the second-section blasthole depth increases from 1.6 m to 2.6 m, then the depth of the second-section boreholes should be increased from 0.9 m to 1.54 m so as to be 0.55–0.56 of the second section blasthole length. If the strength of the broken rock mass is 18, and the length of the second section increases from 1.8 m to 2.82 m, then the first-section length varies from 0.9 m to 1.75 m, being 0.5–0.62 of the second section blasthole length. Applying the novel proposed procedure for a cut-cavity formation will increase the blasthole use coefficient and reduce the cost of drilling and blasting operations. Moreover, the procedure may also be practical for driving underground mine workings and for ore breaking within stopes.
Let’s do Engineering broadens young children’s understanding of engineers
Authors: Bridle Helen , Rajendran Gnanathusharan
Published: April 2024

This study developed and applied a new job card methodology to investigate what 5-year-old children in Scotland understand in relation to engineers and engineering. Children were shown images of different jobs and asked to identify the jobs and select the cards showing engineers. The methodology was utilized pre- and post-intervention to determine whether an intervention combining engineer role model imagery and hands-on activities (specifically Let’s do Engineering) would successfully broaden perspectives of engineering, and whether there would be any differences between boys and girls in terms of the effectiveness of the intervention. In total, 16 children of 5–6 year old from one school participated and prior to the intervention could only correctly recognize an average of 1.5 engineers. After intervention, however, all children were able to successfully identify multiple engineers within the job cards, achieving in excess of a three-fold increase in the number of engineers correctly identified, even 2 months after the end of the intervention. When comparing data for boys and girls, analysis showed that there were no between-group gender differences in either perceptions or in strength of impact of the intervention. The engineers identified were well spread across the different engineering fields, indicating that the children developed a broad understanding of different engineering disciplines.
Association between monocyte to lymphocyte ratio and diabetic foot ulcer in the population of the US with diabetes based on the 1999-2004 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data: a retrospective cross-sectional study
Authors: Li Zirui , Jian Yang , Wei Zairong
Published: April 2024

Background

Diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) is a severe complication that occurs in patients with diabetes and is a primary factor that necessitates amputation. Therefore, the occurrence and progression of DFU must be predicted at an early stage to improve patient prognosis and outcomes. In this regard, emerging evidence suggests that inflammation-related markers play a significant role in DFU. One such potential marker, the monocyte-lymphocyte ratio (MLR), has not been extensively studied in relation to DFU. This study aimed to define a connection between MLR and DFU.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted using National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) data from 1999 to 2004. DFU was defined based on survey questionnaires assessing the presence of nonhealing ulcers in the lower extremities for more than 4 weeks in diabetes patients. The MLR was calculated as the ratio of the monocyte count to the lymphocyte count, which was directly obtained from laboratory data files. Logistic regression analysis was performed to assess the relationship between the MLR and DFU. Stratified analysis according to age, sex, body mass index, blood glucose, hemoglobin, and glycated hemoglobin categories was conducted, and multiple imputations were applied to missing data.

Results

In total, 1246 participants were included; the prevalence of DFU was 9.4% (117/1246). A multivariable regression model revealed a significant association between DFU and a 0.1 unit increase in MLR after adjusting for all covariates (adjusted odds ratio=1.16, 95% confidence interval: 1.02-1.33). Subgroup analyses revealed consistent findings regarding the impact of MLR on the presence of DFU (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

MLR is significantly associated with DFU in diabetes patients, and can be used as one of the indicators for predicting the occurrence of DFU. MLR assessment may be a valuable component in the follow-up of patients with diabetes.
The search method for key transmission sections based on an improved spectral clustering algorithm
Authors: Lin Jiliang , Liu Min
Published: April 2024

With the increased complexity of power systems stemming from the connection of high-proportion renewable energy sources, coupled with the escalating volatility and uncertainty, the key transmission sections that serve as indicators of the power grid’s security status are also subject to frequent changes, posing challenges to grid monitoring. The search method for key transmission sections based on an improved spectral clustering algorithm is proposed in this paper. A branch weight model, considering the impact of node voltage and power flow factors, is initially established to comprehensively reflect the electrical connectivity between nodes. Subsequently, a weighted graph model is constructed based on spectral graph theory, and an improved spectral clustering algorithm is employed to partition the power grid. Finally, a safety risk indicator is utilized to identify whether the partitioned sections are key transmission sections. Results from case studies on the IEEE39-node system and actual power grid examples demonstrate that the proposed method accurately and effectively searches for all key transmission sections of the system and identifies their security risks. The application in real power grid scenarios validates its ability to screen out some previously unrecognized key transmission sections.
The spatial effect of integrated economy on carbon emissions in the era of big data: a case study of China
Authors: Wang Yan , Ke Qian , Lei Shuzhen
Published: April 2024

The digital economy has the characteristics of resource conservation, which can solve China’s high carbon emissions problems. The digital economy can quickly integrate with the real economy, forming an integrated economy. However, it is still unclear whether an integrated economy can effectively reduce carbon emissions and achieve China’s ‘dual carbon goals’. Therefore, this study takes 30 provinces in China as the research object, constructs the integration economy index system through the statistical data from 2011-2021, and explores the spatial effect of the impact of the integration economy on carbon emissions by using principal component analysis, coupled coordination model and spatial econometric model. The research results are as follows. (1) From 2011 to 2021, the comprehensive economy showed a trend of increasing yearly (from 0.667 to 0.828), and carbon emissions showed a slow decrease (from 0.026 to 0.017). (2) Due to the infiltration of China’s economic development from the eastern to the western, the spatial distribution of the integrated economy shows a decreasing trend from east to west. The spatial distribution of carbon emissions may be related to China’s industrial layout of heavy industry in the northern, and light industry in the southern, showing a trend of low in the south and high in the north. (3) The integrated economy can significantly reduce carbon emissions (the coefficients of influence, -0.146), and the reduction effect will be more obvious if spatial spillover effects are taken into account (-0.305). (4) The eastern coast, the middle reaches of the Yangtze River, and the middle reaches of the Yellow River economic zones all increase carbon emissions at a certain level of significance (0.065, 0.148, and 3.890). The Northeast, South Coastal and Southwest economic zones significantly reduce carbon emissions (-0.220, -0.092, and -0.308). The results of the Northern Coast and Northwest are not significant (-0.022 and 0.095). (5) China should tailor regional economic development policies, such as strengthening investment in digital infrastructure in the Northwest Economic Zone and fully leveraging the spatial spillover effects of integrated economy in the Northeast, Southern Coastal, and Southwest Economic Zones to reduce carbon emissions.
Modeling branch attributes and biomass for Catalpa bungei plantations under various fertilization regimes
Authors: Guan Zhuizhui , Zhang Qingbin , Xu Tiaozi , Chen Dong , Lu Yizeng , Han Qingjun , Li Ningning , Ma Wenjun , Wang Junhui , Su Yan , Li Jiyue , Qiu Quan , He Qian
Published: April 2024

The development and morphology of branches, a crucial step in producing high-quality large-diameter lumber, may be influenced by fertilization. The response of branch attributes to different fertilization regimes, however, is still poorly understood. The Catalpa bungei plantations, which had been growing for 6 years in northern China, were chosen to study how various fertilization measures affected branch attributes. The two fertilization techniques used were hole fertilization (HF) and water and fertilizer integration (WF), with no fertilization (CK) as a control. The quantity, density, morphology (e.g., diameter, length, and angle), and position (e.g., height and orientation) of branches, and organ biomass of 18 standard trees (total of 516 branches) were investigated. The results demonstrated a considerable increase in tree height, diameter at breast height (DBH), canopy ratio, branch quantity, and organ biomass following the addition of fertilizer. Both the maximum branch diameter and the number of branches rose with fertilization. Following fertilization, the number of branches rose by 16% (HF) and 28% (WF) compared to non-fertilized trees, while the maximum branch diameter increased by 3.5% (HF) and 17.3% (WF), respectively. WF led to an increase in the number of branches and largest branch diameter in comparison to CK and HF. The length, angle, and diameter of branches, however, were not affected significantly by different fertilization treatments. There were roughly equal amounts of branches in four orientations. The mixed-model analysis revealed that the number of branches was positively correlated with branch density and tree height. The branch diameter increased with the increase of branch length and angle. The branch length was negatively correlated with branch height and angle. The branch angle showed a larger angle at the bottom of the canopy. Tree height plus diameter at breast height combined, or just the diameter at breast height indicator alone, can both reliably predict the total biomass of trees. The branch models created in this research may offer some theoretical backing for understanding the crown dynamics of valuable tree species in northern China.
A conserved motif in the immune-subdominant RAP-1 related antigen of Babesia bovis contains a B-cell epitope recognized by antibodies from protected cattle
Authors: Rojas Manuel J. , Bastos Reginaldo G. , Navas Jinna , Laughery Jacob M. , Lacy Paul A. , Suarez Carlos E.
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Babesia bovis, a tick-borne apicomplexan parasite causing bovine babesiosis, remains a significant threat worldwide, and improved and practical vaccines are needed. Previous studies defined the members of the rhoptry associated protein-1 (RAP-1), and the neutralization-sensitive rhoptry associated protein-1 related antigen (RRA) superfamily in B. bovis, as strong candidates for the development of subunit vaccines. Both RAP-1 and RRA share conservation of a group of 4 cysteines and amino acids motifs at the amino terminal end (NT) of these proteins.

Methods and results

Sequence comparisons among the RRA sequences of several B. bovis strains and other Babesia spp parasites indicate a high level of conservation of a 15-amino acid (15-mer) motif located at the NT of the protein. BlastP searches indicate that the 15-mer motif is also present in adenylate cyclase, dynein, and other ATP binding proteins. AlphaFold2 structure predictions suggest partial exposure of the 15-mer on the surface of RRA of three distinct Babesia species. Antibodies in protected cattle recognize a synthetic peptide representing the 15-mer motif sequence in iELISA, and rabbit antibodies against the 15-mer react with the surface of free merozoites in immunofluorescence.

Discussion and conclusion

The presence of the 15-mer-like regions in dynein and ATP-binding proteins provides a rationale for investigating possible functional roles for RRA. The demonstrated presence of a surface exposed B-cell epitope in the 15-mer motif of the B. bovis RRA, which is recognized by sera from protected bovines, supports its inclusion in future subunit epitope-based vaccines against B. bovis.
National ocean policy in the United States: using framing theory to highlight policy priorities between presidential administrations
Authors: Johnson Gregory , Anderson Christopher , Dunning Kelly , Williamson Ryan
Published: April 2024

Coastal and ocean management in the United States is a complex issue requiring an equally complex management policy. Federal policy has historically been carried out in a siloed (sector-by-sector) fashion causing inefficient and bureaucratic management by federal agencies. The Obama administration took a novel approach to coastal and ocean management by signing an executive order that brought together federal agencies and empowered regional stakeholders, creating a first of its kind comprehensive National Ocean Policy. In 2018, former President Donald Trump rescinded the Obama-era policy and enacted his own version of National Ocean Policy that shifted authority to the states and focused on the economic potential of American waters. This research addresses a significant challenge in federal management of a complex natural resource. Here we identify common management strategies between different administrations to provide insights for future attempts at National Ocean Policy. We collect policy documents, press releases, and congressional testimony from high-level stakeholders and identified the most common themes over a 12-year period from 2009-2021. We find three common themes between the administrations even though their policies varied in strategy and scope: 1) the importance of a strong and enduring marine economy, 2) creating a strategic and efficient ocean policy, and 3) devolving authority from the federal government to state and regional decision-makers. We argue that coastal and ocean management via executive order is too easily rescinded to have a lasting impact. These novel findings highlight potential strategies for bipartisan cooperation in future attempts at National Ocean Policy.