bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EU’s Medical Device Expert Panels: Analysis of Membership and Published Clinical Evaluation Consultation Procedure (CECP) Results
Authors: Watson Colleen , Richmond Frances J.
Published: June 2024

Background

The new EU Medical Device Regulation (MDR) places greater importance on the role of clinical evidence to establish safety and performance. Article 54 of the MDR calls for expert committees to independently review the scientific, technical, and clinical evidence supporting the market authorization of certain novel devices independently from the established process of Notified Body reviews. These experts provide a review and opinion that ultimately is taken into consideration alongside the information reviewed by the Notified Body during the review process. Four expert committees (General and Plastic Surgery and Dentistry; Orthopaedics, Traumatology, Rehabilitation, Rheumatology; Circulatory System; and Neurology) have published at least one Scientific Opinion (SO) under the Clinical Evaluation Consultation Procedure (CECP) in 2021–2022.

Methods

The four expert committees with published CECP opinions were reviewed to assess the academic backgrounds and professional expertise of each member with respect to clinical, technical, and biological domains on a 0–2 scale for each domain. A content review was conducted on the 10 CECP opinions published by these committees to assess their consistency with the goals and outcome expectations set by the MDR. The extent of content related to each of the clinical, technical, and biological domains was also assessed on a 0–2 scale.

Results

All committees were composed primarily by members with strong clinical expertise, but only a few had strong technical and biological expertise. Across committees, the average scores of members related to academic background and professional expertise both ranged from 1.64 to 2.00 in the clinical domain, but only 0–0.15 and 0.15–0.69, respectively, in the biological domain, and 0.12–0.55 and 0.23–0.73, respectively, in the technical domain. A content review for the 10 SOs showed that all opinions focused exclusively or primarily on the clinical evidence. Three contained a modest amount of additional text directed at technical/engineering issues and five at biological issues.

Conclusion

Expert committees are composed predominantly of expert clinical reviewers but have many fewer members with significant technical or biological expertise. This may limit the ability of the committees to evaluate the significant technical and biological risks that are often best understood by preclinical testing. Broadening the expertise across the committees may improve the depth of their benefit/risk critiques.
Cultural differences in teacher immediacy and classroom communication apprehension: an empirical study between Brazil and the United States
Authors: Parente Alves Neta Zeneida
Published: June 2024

Teacher immediacy and classroom communication apprehension have been well researched in the United States. Instructional communication research in Brazil is limited, and several topics still demand investigation among the population of Brazil. This study extends current research on teacher immediacy and classroom communication apprehension to the Brazilian population. We should extend the analysis to the Brazilian context instead of relying on previous investigations from other regions as the basis for cross-cultural theorizing. A total of 221 students participated in the survey. This study reports four significant findings: (1) Brazilian students’ perceptions of teacher immediacy are greater than American students’ perceptions of teacher immediacy; (2) American students have higher levels of Classroom Communication Apprehension than Brazilian students; (3) Classroom communication apprehension is negatively correlated with American students’ perceptions of teacher immediacy; and (4) Classroom communication apprehension is not significantly correlated with Brazilian students’ perceptions of teacher immediacy. Highly immediate teachers will have less apprehensive students.
ICF-Praxislehrbuch - Neue Standards in der Versorgung chronisch kranker Kinder
Authors: Philippi Heike , Mayer Rolf
Published: June 2024

Die Nutzung der ICF für den 360° Grad-Blick auf die Lebensbereiche von Kindern

Die bestmögliche Förderung der Teilhabe von Menschen mit Behinderung ist eine bedeutende Aufgabe aller Akteure im Gesundheits-, Sozial- und Bildungswesen. Das passende Instrument für die Erfassung der gesundheitlichen Situation der Menschen mit Behinderung ist die ICF. Allerdings entpuppt sich die Beherrschung der ICF mit über 1.500 Codes als hohe Hürde für den Einsatz im Alltag, die schwer zu überwinden ist. Dass muss und soll nicht sein, da die ICF genau das richtige Instrument für eine dialogische, partizipative und interdisziplinäre Teilhabeförderung ist.

Das Praxishandbuch mit dem Schwerpunkt auf der Unterstützung von Kindern zeigt, wie durch die Anwendung der ICF die Familien und ihr Umfeld besser in Entscheidungen miteinbezogen und Kinder entsprechend ihrer Fähigkeiten besser gestärkt werden können. Es werden zudem in der Praxis erprobte Verfahrensweisen an die Hand gegeben, um mit der ICF den individuellen Teilhabedarf und passgenaue Maßnahmen zu ermitteln.

Ein konsequenter ICF-Farbcode, die gut strukturierte Gliederung sowie viele farbige Illustrationen unterstützen einen visuell-intuitiven Zugang zu Anwendung und Dokumentation mit der ICF(-Codierung). Lebendige Fallbeispiele, viele didaktische Tipps und Empfehlungen sowie wertvolle Rückkopplungen aus der Praxis und aus Schulungen runden dieses auch visuell ansprechende Praxislehrbuch ab.

Die Autoren haben jahrzehntelange Erfahrung in der Anwendung, Implementierung und Schulung der Teilhabeförderung mit ICF, der Entwicklung von Fachstandards, von Teams und Organisationen sowie in der Unternehmensführung. Sie haben darüber hinaus auch maßgeblich an dem umfassendsten Wirkungsforschungsprojekt zur ICF im deutschsprachigen Raum mitgewirkt, dessen Ergebnisse in das Praxishandbuch eingeflossen sind.

Umfangreiche Arbeitsmaterialien zu diesem Buch können nach erfolgter Registrierung von der Hogrefe Website heruntergeladen werden.
Lehrbuch Kognitive Neurowissenschaften
Authors: Jäncke Lutz
Published: June 2024

Die Kognitiven Neurowissenschaften haben in den vergangenen Jahren eine faszinierende Entwicklung vollzogen. Unterstützt durch neue bildgebende Verfahren konnte sich die Erforschung des menschlichen Gehirns und seiner Funktionen zu einem zentralen Forschungsfeld entwickeln, in dem sich Psychologie, Humanbiologie und Neurologie zu einer neuen Disziplin verbinden.
Das „Lehrbuch Kognitive Neurowissenschaften“ bietet einen umfassenden Überblick über Methoden und Forschungsgegenstände des Fachs:

Reifung des Gehirns
Hemisphärenasymmetrie
visuelle und auditorische Wahrnehmung
Aufmerksamkeit
exekutive Funktionen
motorische Kontrolle
deklaratives, non-deklaratives und Arbeitsgedächtnis
Plastizität
Sprache
Lesen und Schreiben
Emotion und Motivation
Urteilen und Entscheiden
Das Gehirn in Ruhe
Das alternde Gehirn

Für die 4., überarbeitete Auflage wurde das Lehrbuch aktualisiert und mit einem Kapitel zum Thema Altern und den damit verbundenen anatomischen und kognitiven Veränderungen ergänzt.
Schlaf erfolgreich trainieren
Authors: Müller Tilmann , Paterok Beate
Published: June 2024

Nachts wieder einmal richtig ein- oder durchschlafen zu können, davon träumen diejenigen, die seit Jahren unter Schlafproblemen leiden. Tagsüber kommen ständige Müdigkeit und Gedanken an die bevorstehende Nacht hinzu – auf Dauer beeinträchtigen Schlafstörungen erheblich die Lebensqualität. Der Ratgeber richtet sich an Betroffene, die ihre Schlafprobleme wieder in den Griff bekommen möchten.
Das Buch beschreibt, wie anhand der nachweislich wirksamen Methode der „Schlafkompression“ nach und nach ein erholsamer nächtlicher Schlaf aufgebaut werden kann. Konkrete Hinweise und Übungen sind so zusammengestellt, dass sie über acht Wochen hinweg selbstständig als „Schlaftraining“ durchgeführt werden können. Ziel ist es dabei, auch den Alltag bewusst zu gestalten, der einen erheblichen Einfluss auf den Schlaf hat. Interessante Fakten zum Thema Schlaf und Schlafstörung ergänzen den Ratgeber.
Ancient Crustal Weaknesses Contribute to Modern Earthquakes in West Africa
Authors: Derouin Sarah
Published: June 2024

Researchers dive into the mechanisms and stresses that trigger earthquakes along the passive margin and interior of the continent.
Predicting sales and cross-border e-commerce supply chain management using artificial neural networks and the Capuchin search algorithm
Authors: Xie Lun , Liu Jiaquan , Wang Wei
Published: June 2024

E-commerce provides a large selection of goods for sale and purchase, which promotes regular transactions and commodity flows. Efficient distribution of goods and precise estimation of customer wants are essential for cost reduction. In order to improve supply chain efficiency in the context of cross-border e-commerce, this article combines machine learning approaches with the Internet of Things. The suggested approach consists of two main stages. Order prediction is done in the first step to determine how many orders each merchant is expected to get in the future. In the second phase, allocation operations are conducted and resources required for each retailer are supplied depending on their needs and inventory, taking into account each store’s inventory as well as the anticipated sales level. This suggested approach makes use of a weighted mixture of neural networks to anticipate sales orders. The Capuchin Search Algorithm (CapSA) is used in this weighted combination to concurrently enhance the learning and ensemble performance of models. This indicates that an effort is made to reduce the local error of the learning model at the model level via model weight adjustments and neural network configuration. To guarantee more accurate output from the ensemble model, the best weight for each individual component is found at the ensemble model level using the CapSA method. This method yields the ensemble model’s final output in the form of weighted averages by choosing suitable weight values. With a Root Mean Squared Error of 2.27, the suggested technique has successfully predicted sales based on the acquired findings, showing a minimum decrease of 2.4 in comparison to the comparing methodologies. Additionally, the suggested method’s strong performance is shown by the fact that it was able to minimize the Mean Absolute Percentage Error by 14.67 when compared to other comparison approaches.
Solubility of lumiracoxib in supercritical carbon dioxide
Authors: Albadran Firas H. , Abbood Nabeel K. , Al-Mayyahi Mohammad A. , Hosseini Seyednooroldin , Abed Mohammed S.
Published: June 2024

This study aims to use a static-based solubility method for measuring the solubility of lumiracoxib at a temperature of 308–338 K and pressure of 120–400 bar for the first time. The obtained solubility data for lumiracoxib is between 4.74 × 10−5 and 3.46 × 10−4 (mole fraction) for the studied ranges of pressure and temperature. The solubility values reveal that the lumiracoxib experiences a crossover pressure of about 160 bar. Moreover, the measured solubility data of these two drugs are correlated with density-based semi-empirical correlations namely Bartle et al., Mendez-Santiago-Teja, Kumar and Johnstone, Chrastil and modified Chrastil models with an average absolute relative deviation of 10.7%, 9.5%, 9.8%, 7.8%, and 8.7% respectively for lumiracoxib. According to these findings, it is obvious that all of the examined models are rather accurate and there is no superiority between these models for both examined drugs although the Chrastil model is slightly better in the overall view.
Stress-related transcriptomic changes associated with GFP transgene expression and active transgene silencing in plants
Authors: Kallemi Paraskevi , Verret Frederic , Andronis Christos , Ioannidis Nikolaos , Glampedakis Nikolaos , Kotzabasis Kiriakos , Kalantidis Kriton
Published: June 2024

Plants respond to biotic and abiotic stress by activating and interacting with multiple defense pathways, allowing for an efficient global defense response. RNA silencing is a conserved mechanism of regulation of gene expression directed by small RNAs important in acquired plant immunity and especially virus and transgene repression. Several RNA silencing pathways in plants are crucial to control developmental processes and provide protection against abiotic and biotic stresses as well as invasive nucleic acids such as viruses and transposable elements. Various notable studies have shed light on the genes, small RNAs, and mechanisms involved in plant RNA silencing. However, published research on the potential interactions between RNA silencing and other plant stress responses is limited. In the present study, we tested the hypothesis that spreading and maintenance of systemic post-transcriptional gene silencing (PTGS) of a GFP transgene are associated with transcriptional changes that pertain to non-RNA silencing-based stress responses. To this end, we analyzed the structure and function of the photosynthetic apparatus and conducted whole transcriptome analysis in a transgenic line of Nicotiana benthamiana that spontaneously initiates transgene silencing, at different stages of systemic GFP-PTGS. In vivo analysis of chlorophyll a fluorescence yield and expression levels of key photosynthetic genes indicates that photosynthetic activity remains unaffected by systemic GFP-PTGS. However, transcriptomic analysis reveals that spreading and maintenance of GFP-PTGS are associated with transcriptional reprogramming of genes that are involved in abiotic stress responses and pattern- or effector-triggered immunity-based stress responses. These findings suggest that systemic PTGS may affect non-RNA-silencing-based defense pathways in N. benthamiana, providing new insights into the complex interplay between different plant stress responses.
Assessing the impact of biosecurity practices and animal welfare in small-scale mountain dairy farming
Authors: Zanon Thomas , Alrhmoun Mousaab , Gauly Matthias
Published: June 2024

This study estimates the association between the level of biosecurity, animal welfare, milk quality, and economic performance on 2291 mountain dairy farms which largely differs in management and structure from large dairy operations in the lowlands mainly due to climatic and topographic constraints in mountain areas. The dairy industry’s increasing emphasis on biosecurity is crucial for ensuring animal health, productivity, and disease mitigation. Therefore, in the present study the biosecurity and animal welfare status of mountain dairy farms were assessed considering the official welfare protocol for dairy cows of the Italian ClassyFarm system. Our findings reveal a suboptimal adoption of biosecurity measures, attributed to structural limitations in mountain farms and farmers’ awareness gaps. Despite these challenges, the economic significance of biosecurity adoption is evident, emphasizing potential benefits for farm viability and animal health. Conversely, the study indicates a moderate to good welfare status in assessed farms, reflecting farmers’ awareness of the importance of high welfare standards for dairy cows. Improved welfare positively correlates with milk sales and productivity, highlighting the economic advantages of prioritizing animal well-being. Challenges persist, particularly regarding animal housing deficiencies and related consumer concerns about animal welfare in dairy production. Therefore, targeted interventions and educational initiatives are crucial to empower farmers and promote best practices in biosecurity and animal welfare management. However, addressing resultant production cost increases necessitates society’s willingness to pay more for animal-based food, emphasizing the importance of aligning economic incentives with sustainable farming practices.
Suppression of smooth muscle cell inflammation by myocardin-related transcription factors involves inactivation of TANK-binding kinase 1
Authors: Bankell Elisabeth , Liu Li , van der Horst Jennifer , Rippe Catarina , Jepps Thomas A. , Nilsson Bengt-Olof , Swärd Karl
Published: June 2024

Myocardin-related transcription factors (MRTFs: myocardin/MYOCD, MRTF-A/MRTFA, and MRTF-B/MRTFB) suppress production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines in human smooth muscle cells (SMCs) through sequestration of RelA in the NF-κB complex, but additional mechanisms are likely involved. The cGAS-STING pathway is activated by double-stranded DNA in the cytosolic compartment and acts through TANK-binding kinase 1 (TBK1) to spark inflammation. The present study tested if MRTFs suppress inflammation also by targeting cGAS-STING signaling. Interrogation of a transcriptomic dataset where myocardin was overexpressed using a panel of 56 cGAS-STING cytokines showed the panel to be repressed. Moreover, MYOCD, MRTFA, and SRF associated negatively with the panel in human arteries. RT-qPCR in human bronchial SMCs showed that all MRTFs reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines on the panel. MRTFs diminished phosphorylation of TBK1, while STING phosphorylation was marginally affected. The TBK1 inhibitor amlexanox, but not the STING inhibitor H-151, reduced the anti-inflammatory effect of MRTF-A. Co-immunoprecipitation and proximity ligation assays supported binding between MRTF-A and TBK1 in SMCs. MRTFs thus appear to suppress cellular inflammation in part by acting on the kinase TBK1. This may defend SMCs against pro-inflammatory insults in disease.
Detection of invisible biological traces in relation to the physicochemical properties of substrates surfaces in forensic casework
Authors: Recipon Mathilde , Agniel Rémy , Kunemann Philippe , Ponche Arnaud , Carreiras Franck , Hermitte Francis , Leroy-Dudal Johanne , Hubac Sylvain , Gallet Olivier , Kellouche Sabrina
Published: June 2024

Touch DNA, which can be found at crime scenes, consists of invisible biological traces deposited through a person’s skin’s contact with an object or another person. Many factors influence touch DNA transfer, including the “destination” substrate’s surface. The latter’s physicochemical characteristics (wettability, roughness, surface energy, etc.) will impact touch DNA deposition and persistence on a substrate. We selected a representative panel of substrates from objects found at crime scenes (glass, polystyrene, tiles, raw wood, etc.) to investigate the impact of these characteristics on touch DNA deposition and detection. These were shown to impact cell deposition, morphology, retention, and subsequent touch DNA genetic analysis. Interestingly, cell-derived fragments found within keratinocyte cells and fingermarks using in vitro touch DNA models could be successfully detected whichever the substrates’ physicochemistry by targeting cellular proteins and carbohydrates for two months, indoors and outdoors. However, swabbing and genetic analyses of such mock traces from different substrates produced informative profiles mainly for substrates with the highest surface free energy and therefore the most hydrophilic. The substrates’ intrinsic characteristics need to be considered to better understand both the transfer and persistence of biological traces, as well as their detection and collection, which require an appropriate methodology and sampling device to get informative genetic profiles.
A cross-sectional National Health and Nutrition Examination survey-based study of the association between systemic immune-inflammation index and blood urea nitrogen levels in United States adolescents
Authors: Guo Cheng , Cai Qinhui , Li Yang , Li Feng , Liu Kai
Published: June 2024

Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level is one of the commonly used indicators to assess renal function and systemic immune-inflammatory status. In the adolescent population, changes in BUN levels may be associated with a variety of factors, including physiologic dehydration, lifestyle influences such as nutritional intake, physical activity, and possible endocrine or metabolic disorders. In recent years, more and more studies have shown that BUN levels are not only a reflection of kidney function, but it may also be related to the inflammatory state of the body. The Systemic Immune Inflammatory Index (SII) is a comprehensive index that takes into account platelet counts, neutrophil and lymphocyte counts, and is thought to be effective in reflecting the body's immune status and inflammatory response. However, research on the relationship between the two, SII and BUN, remains understudied in the adolescent population. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between SII and BUN levels in a population of American adolescents and to further analyze the factors that influence it. We conducted a cross-sectional study using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database. Using descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and regression analysis, we explored the relationship between SII and BUN levels. We found a significant negative correlation between SII and BUN levels, with BUN levels decreasing when SII levels increased (BUN as the dependent variable and SII as the outcome variable). We performed a multiple regression analysis of this relationship, controlling for possible confounders such as gender, age, race, and BMI, and found that this negative correlation remained significant. Our findings reveal an important relationship between SII and BUN levels and provide new perspectives for understanding adolescent health.
Fatigue and failure mode analyses of glass infiltrated 5Y-PSZ bonded onto dentin analogues
Authors: Rodrigues Jonas Vinicius Meireles , Demachkia Amir Mohidin , da Silva de Assis Rita Adriana Souza , Gomes Mariana Marques , Campos Tiago Moreira Bastos , Dapieve Kiara Serafini , Valandro Luiz Felipe , de Melo Renata Marques
Published: June 2024

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the fatigue survival of 5Y-PSZ zirconia infiltrated with an experimental glass and bonded onto dentin analogues. Disc-shaped specimens of a 5Y-PSZ (Katana UTML Kuraray Noritake) were cemented onto dentin analogs (NEMA G10) and divided into four groups (n = 15): Zctrl Group (control, without infiltration); Zglz Group (Glaze, compression surface); Zinf-comp Group (Experimental Glass, compression surface); Zinf-tens Group (Experimental Glass, tension surface). Surface treatments were varied. Cyclic fatigue loading, oblique transillumination, stereomicroscope examination, and scanning electron microscopy were performed. Fatigue data were analyzed (failure load and number of cycles) using survival analysis (Kaplan–Meier and Log-Rank Mantel–Cox). There was no statistically significant difference in fatigue survival between the Zglz, Zctrl, and Zinf-comp groups. The Zinf-tens group presented a significantly higher failure load when compared to the other groups and exhibited a different failure mode. The experimental glass effectively infiltrated the zirconia, enhancing structural reliability, altering the failure mode, and improving load-bearing capacity over more cycles, particularly in the group where the glass was infiltrated into the tensile surface of the zirconia. Glass infiltration into 5Y-PSZ zirconia significantly enhanced structural reliability and the ability to withstand loads over an increased number of cycles. This approach has the potential to increase the durability of zirconia restorations, reducing the need for replacements and save time and resources, promoting efficiency in clinical practice.
Experimental study on fractal dimension of energy dissipation and crack growth in saturated tuff at different strain rates
Authors: Wang Hao , Zong Qi , Lu Ziyi , Wang Haibo
Published: June 2024

In order to investigate the effects of strain rate and water saturation on the energy dissipation and crack growth of tuff, uniaxial compression tests were carried out on dry and water saturated tuff with different strain rates using an electro-hydraulic servo press and a 50 mm diameter split Hopkinson pressure rod (SHPB) device. High-speed camera and Image J image analysis software were used to obtain the crack growth process of the specimen under impact load, and fractal dimension was introduced to quantitatively study the crack growth degree. The results show that more than 90% of the energy is stored in the specimen as elastic energy when it reaches the peak stress under static load. The average total energy of water-saturated specimens is 67.55% of that of dry specimens. The average energy dissipation density of water-saturated specimens under 0.3 MPa, 0.4 MPa and 0.5 MPa air pressure is 0.79, 0.91 and 0.92 times of that of dry specimens, respectively. Water-saturated specimens will deteriorate and thus reduce their energy storage and energy absorption effects. The reflected energy, transmitted energy, absorbed energy and incident energy are linear, logarithmic and linear functions, respectively, and the energy absorptivity and specific energy absorptivity of water-saturated specimens are lower than those of dry specimens. Due to the existence of “stefan” effect, the increase of energy dissipation density of water-saturated specimen at high strain rate is greater than that of dry specimen. The mean fractal dimension of water-saturated specimens under 0.3 MPa, 0.4 MPa and 0.5 MPa is 1.09, 1.05 and 1.16 times that of dry specimens. At the same strain rate, the number and width of cracks in water-saturated specimens are larger than that in dry specimens. Water-saturated behavior reduces the energy absorption capacity of tuff, increases the fractal dimension of crack growth, and significantly reduces the resistance of water-saturated rock to external loads.
Research on the dynamic tensile characteristics and surface crack evolution of coal under impact loading
Authors: Wang Ziping , Li Shengwei , Zhang Yi , Qi Peiwen , Zhang Youyou , Chen Yuanjing , Li Yexue , Zeng Gang
Published: June 2024

The tensile properties of coal under dynamic loading are important mechanical characteristics of coal and are highly important for controlling coal rock stability under impact loading conditions, selecting blasting engineering parameters, and studying the mechanism of rockburst disasters. To investigate the dynamic tensile failure process of coal subjected to impact loading, this study used high-speed photography and digital image correlation technology to capture the dynamic tensile failure of coal under impact loading. The dynamic tensile evolution was quantitatively analyzed from the beginning of coal sample being loaded to failure. The captured images of the coal were processed, and the fractal dimension was used to quantitatively describe the evolution of the coal surface cracks under impact loading. The following conclusions were drawn from the experimental results: (1) An empirical formula was established to describe the dynamic tensile strength characteristics of coal under different loading rates. (2) Under impact loading, the maximum strain of a Brazilian disc coal sample first appeared at the contact end between the sample and the incident rod. (3) Under impact loading, a Brazilian disc coal sample cracked from the center of the sample outward, and the crack subsequently extended toward both ends. The fractal dimension of the crack exhibited a power function relationship with time, and the variation range of the fractal dimension of the crack was 1.05–1.39.
Clinicopathological characteristics and prognostic significance of casting-type calcifications in patients with invasive breast cancer presenting with microcalcification
Authors: Wang Jiang , Zhao Liangying , Hu Xiaoshan , Lv Liting , Zhang Xiaowei , Lu Minjun , Hu Guinv
Published: June 2024

To explore the clinicopathological characteristics and prognostic significance of casting-type calcification (CC) in patients with breast cancer presenting with microcalcification on mammography. Data on patients with invasive breast cancer who had mammographic calcification was retrospectively analyzed. The chi-square test was utilized to assess the clinicopathological characteristics of two forms of CC-related breast cancer. The examination of prognostic variables was conducted using Kaplan–Meier and Cox regression analyses. A total of 427 eligible patients were included in this study. Chi-square analysis indicated that the presence of CC was associated with estrogen receptor (ER) negativity (P = 0.005), progesterone receptor (PR) negativity (P < 0.001), and epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER-2) positivity (P < 0.001); among these, the association was stronger with the CC-predominant type. After a median follow-up of 82 months, those with CC had a worse 5-year recurrence-free survival (RFS) (77.1% vs. 86.9%, p = 0.036; hazard ratio [HR], 1.86; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.04–3.31) and overall survival (OS) (84.0% vs. 94.4%, p = 0.007; HR, 2.99; 95% CI 1.34–6.65) rates. In COX regression analysis, such differences were still observed in HER-2 positive subgroups (RFS: HR: 2.45, 95% CI 1–5.97, P = 0.049; OS: HR: 4.53, 95% CI 1.17–17.52, P = 0.029). In patients with invasive breast cancer exhibiting calcifications on mammography, the presence of CC, especially the CC-predominant type, is linked to a higher frequency of hormone receptor negativity and HER-2 positivity. The presence of CC is associated with an unfavorable 5-year RFS and OS rates.
Analysis of heavy metal concentrations in breast milk by neutrosophic method in the locate of Lahore, Pakistan
Authors: Fatima Adeena , Afzal Usama , Aslam Muhammad , Rafi Zainab , Ahmad Naveed , Baig Mirza Albash
Published: June 2024

Breast milk is the essential and primary source of nutrition in the early months of infants. Breastfeeding is the single transmission method through which infants are exposed to hazardous metals. The consumption of mothers’ milk has emerged as a concerning source of heavy metal exposure, specifically among mothers residing in heavily polluted regions. Poor dietary habits intensify the accumulation of these heavy metals in breast milk. In this study, a statistically appropriate approach has been applied to the concentration of toxic heavy metals in breastfeeding mothers in the nearby localities of Lahore, Pakistan. For the purpose of analyzing imprecise data more accurately, the following study has proposed neutrosophic statistics on heavy metal concentrations in breast milk. This statistical method provides sufficient insight when examining data containing uncertainty. Moreover, this approach is implemented on collected data from about 70 samples of breast milk at the end of 3rd lactation month from two age groups and then examined under a Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometer (FAAS). The variation in the concentration of various heavy metals has been examined more precisely utilizing the neutrosophic approach. This approach clearly elaborates on the elevated levels of Pb and Hg among those areas where a significant proportion of lactating women from industrial zones in Lahore exhibit high levels of these toxins. As a result, it is observed that the proposed method of analysis provides complete information about the variation of the data, which is beneficial for understanding breast cancer causes and mitigating such risks.
Porous crystalline conjugated macrocyclic materials and their energy storage applications
Authors: Yang Yiwen , Yao Xiaoman , Xuan Zhe , Chen Xuanxu , Zhang Yuluan , Huang Taoping , Shi Mingjin , Chen Yifa , Lan Ya-Qian
Published: June 2024

This review provides a summary on the recent progress of porous crystalline conjugated macrocyclic materials in energy storage applications.
Processing polymer photocatalysts for photocatalytic hydrogen evolution
Authors: Lyons Richard Jack , Sprick Reiner Sebastian
Published: June 2024

The processing of conjugated organic materials into films, nanoparticles, and nanofibers, presents significant opportunities to increase their activity for photocatalytic hydrogen evolution and for scaled-up systems for real world applications.
Computational insights into steady-state and dynamic Joule-heated reactors
Authors: Mittal Arnav , Ierapetritou Marianthi , Vlachos Dionisios G.
Published: June 2024

Heat recirculation in Joule-heated reactors.
Amino acid salt induced PbI2 crystal orientation optimization for high-efficiency perovskite solar cells with long-term stability
Authors: Lu Jiangying , Wu Yulin , Wu Shan , Zhao Jing , Wang Jinyao , Lin Runkang , Zou Huayi , Lu Shudi , Liu Kong , Yue Shizhong , Wang Zhijie , Zhou Liya , Qu Shengchun
Published: June 2024

By introducing potassium l-glutamate, residual PbI2 at the buried perovskite interface is eliminated, leading to enhanced photoelectric performance in perovskite solar cells.
Plasmonic Cu–Ni bimetal nanoparticles coupled with ultrathin CdS nanosheets for remarkably improved photocatalytic H2 generation under visible-light irradiation
Authors: Zeng Qingru , Bao Yining , Ning Shunyan , Yu Qingguo , Wei Yuezhou , Zeng Deqian
Published: June 2024

This work presents a fantastic ternary heterojunction that combines plasmonic Cu–Ni bimetal nanoparticles with ultrathin CdS nanosheets for synergistically and remarkably improved photocatalytic H2 generation under visible-light irradiation.
Recent progress on the materials and structure of supercapacitors for AC line filtering applications
Authors: Ma Xiaodong , Sha Junwei , Chen Biao , Shi Chunsheng , Ma Liying , Wang Hao , Zhao Naiqin , Kang Jianli
Published: June 2024

Supercapacitors are emerging as viable replacements for AECs in next-generation filtering capacitors. Researchers focus on the development of high-performance filtering capacitors by selecting electrode materials and adopting structural designs.
On the origin of the biological effects of time varying magnetic fields: quantitative insights
Authors: K. Ravikumar , Roy Choudury Aditya N. , Dubey Ashutosh Kumar , Kumaran V. , Basu Bikramjit
Published: June 2024

A spherical cell under the influence of a time varying magnetic field (H) inducing an electric field (E) which results in a force (F) and a corresponding stress Sk on the membrane.
Dissolving microneedles for transdermal drug delivery in cancer immunotherapy
Authors: Xiang Maya , Yang Chunli , Zhang Li , Wang Siyi , Ren Ya , Gou Maling
Published: June 2024

Dissolving microneedles mediated immunotherapeutics delivery for cancer treatment.
The Importance of Identifying Children With Brain Injury in Schools: Speech-Language Pathologists as Crucial Partners
Authors: Riccardi Jessica S. , D'Angelo Elisabeth , Hagen Erika B. , Pei Yalian , Ciccia Angela , Haarbauer-Krupa Juliet , O'Brien Katy H. , Lundine Jennifer P.
Published: June 2024

Purpose:

The purpose of this article is to describe the importance of and strategies to identify traumatic brain injury (TBI) and associated cognitive-communication disorders (CCDs) in children, a priority identified by the attendees at the Fourth International Cognitive-Communication Disorders Conference. Childhood TBI is associated with a range of difficulties, including CCDs, that can adversely impact functioning and participation into adulthood. Identifying a history of TBI in children in schools is the crucial first step to then monitor, assess, and provide evidence-based intervention and accommodations in collaboration with families and medical and educational professionals.

Conclusion:

Given that CCDs are treatable, effective identification, assessment, and management of students with TBI and resulting CCDs can reduce adverse outcomes in adult survivors of childhood TBI. Speech-language pathologists must be aware of their expertise in assessing and treating CCDs in children with TBI and advocate for programmatic and policy changes to better identify and support children with TBI.
Restoration and strengthening of bearing brick columns using TM “MAPEI” materials
Authors: Bohdan Serhii , Smolin Denis , Tymoshenko Olena
Published: June 2024

After the beginning of the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine, many buildings and structures received mechanical, thermal, or combined damages. Quick and high-quality restoration, strengthening, protection of reinforced concrete and brick load-bearing elements of structures of buildings and structures is an urgent problem today. That is why the application of modern technical solutions with the use of composite materials allows in the shortest possible time to restore and strengthening damaged structural elements without the use of material-intensive technologies and additional loading of buildings and foundations. In this article, the technology of restoration and strengthening of load-bearing brick columns using the Mapei FRG System is considered on the example of the restoration of a building in the city of Izyum. As a result, it was possible to restore and strengthen the bearing capacity of all elements of the building in the shortest possible time without the use of complex mechanisms and without additional load.
Architectural and planning solutions for multistorey residential buildings with safety capsules
Authors: Bordun Maryna , Bevz Mykola , Shekhorkina Svitlana , Nevgomonnyi Hryhorii , Krutiy Yuriy
Published: June 2024

The purpose of this study is to develop an architectural and construction solution for protecting the civilian population in a multi-story residential building by creating a safe space with instant accessibility. The paper analyzes the past and present experience of designing and constructing civil defense facilities. An architectural and structural solution of the “safety capsule” − a form of protection of the civilian population of instant accessibility in multi-storey residential buildings has been developed based on the best practices. The safety capsule is a dual-purpose protective structure of instant accessibility, that can be used as a shelter during emergencies and as an auxiliary room in peacetime by the residents of the house. The options for detailed planning of the internal space of the “safety capsule” were designed. The proposed solution is integrated into the architectural and planning structure of multi-storey residential buildings by the example of 12-storey and 16-storey residential buildings.
Researching the influence of the CaO/Al2O3 ratio on ettringite formation and obtaining the structure of a cement paste with special properties
Authors: Hryshko Hanna , Derevianko Viktor , Vatazhyshyn Olexandr , Dubov Taras
Published: June 2024

The hypothesis of the dependence of the value of the Gibbs surface energy on the ratio of molecular masses mСаО/nAl2О3 (ΔG=f(mСаО/nAl2О3)) is confirmed, and it is proposed to determine the effectiveness of its influence on the hydration process of minerals of composite sulfoaluminate systems by means of the mineral coefficient KСА= Сm/An, where Сm/An is the Gibbs surface energy, KСmАn is the mineral coefficient of the system. This makes it possible to arrange the minerals of the CaO-Al2O3 system in the following order: СА2, СА, С12А7, С3А respectively with surface energy, kJ/mol – 24.7; 51.86; 141; 145 and later use the coefficients for researching multicomponent systems. Research on the influence of nanodisperse additives in the composition of the system (Al2O3-CaO-SO3-H2O) is aimed at managing the hydration. Formation of a strong structure is associated with the creation of a gel phase and hydroaluminates of cubic crystal system − С3АН6, as well as a stable ettringite phase. With the help of nanomodifiers, the formed blocks are freely joined in the cement matrix, which leads to a decrease in internal stresses in the not yet formed cement system. In addition, there is an assumption on doping of C3AŚH32 and C3AŚH12 crystals.
The impact of vibration on buildings: Problems and solutions
Authors: Kovrova Viktoriia , Volkova Viktoriia , Pakrastins Leonids
Published: June 2024

The article presents a comprehensive overview of a study investigating the influence of soil-foundation interaction on the natural frequencies and vibration safety of reinforced concrete cellular and frame buildings. Through numerical modelling and analysis, the researchers investigate the relationship between structural modes and soil-induced vibrations, emphasizing the sensitivity of vibration frequencies to soil composition. Findings reveal that alterations in foundation conditions can significantly affect building dynamics, particularly in mid-rise structures, highlighting the importance of targeted monitoring for early detection of potential issues. Furthermore, the study discusses the implications of vibrations on human comfort and safety, underscoring the need for effective vibration mitigation strategies. Various damping systems, including hydraulic, dry friction, and dynamic dampers, are proposed as practical solutions to minimize the adverse effects of vibrations on both structures and occupants. Overall, the study underscores the critical role of vibration safety in ensuring the resilience and well-being of buildings and their inhabitants.
Redevelopment of methods for assessing cities for compliance with smart city requirements
Authors: Sankov Petro , Dikarev Kostiantyn , Tkach Natali , Dolotii Maryna , Anysz Hubert
Published: June 2024

This paper is concerned with the redevelopment of methods for assessing cities for compliance with Smart City requirements. The basis of the study is the reduction of the number of factors (indicators). Regarding pre-developed methods, it should be noted that the assessment is carried out according to four groups of factors (indicators), the number of which is 31. Taking into account the large amount of research that needs to be carried out to determine, calculate, and analyze these several indicators, it is proposed to update the mentioned evaluation methodology by reducing the number of considered indicators as much as it is practicable. The research objective is to improve the methods of assessing cities for compliance with Smart City requirements.
Formation of principles of a customer-oriented approach by transport enterprises in conditions of sustainable development
Authors: Smerichevskyi Serhii , Poberezhna Zarina , Kryvovyazyuk Igor , Ivanenko Larysa , Malnov Dmytro
Published: June 2024

The article examines the content and process of forming the principles of a customer-oriented approach to the management of transport enterprises in the context of sustainable development. The author’s definition of the concept of “principles of a customer-oriented approach to the management of transport enterprises” is given on the basis of its understanding as strategic and tactical areas of activity aimed at maximizing the satisfaction of customers’ needs and expectations through the use of digital technologies and innovative approaches. The key principles of a customer-oriented approach to managing transport enterprises in the context of sustainable development are developed, among which the following are highlighted: understanding customer needs; personalization of service; interaction at all stages; digital transformation of processes; data analysis and forecasting; creation of a digital environment; training and development of personnel; culture of service and open communication; continuous analysis and improvement; focus on the sustainability of relations, etc. The author’s own model of digital transformation of transport enterprises using the principles of a customer-oriented approach is proposed. A generalized characterization and impact on the processes of customer focus of individual digital technologies for managing customer relations of transport enterprises is presented.
Place attachment promotes pro-environmental behaviors: The mediating role of nature relatedness
Authors: Chen Xiaolei , Liu Pingping
Published: June 2024

Residents’ participation in pro-environmental behaviors (PEBs) is critical for addressing environmental problems and promoting sustainable development. Place attachment (PA) may play a key role in motivating residents’ pro-environment behaviors, yet the mechanisms of this relationship remain ambiguous. This study integrated natural relatedness (NR) into the research to deepen understanding of its mechanism. Using data collected in Beijing (n = 648), we found that place attachment positively and significantly influences pro-environmental behaviors through nature relatedness. Place attachment significantly affected pro-environmental behaviors. The Place attachment dimensions, including place identity (PI), natural bonding (NB), and social bonding (SB), had a significant prediction on pro-environmental behaviors. Specifically, natural bonding plays the most effective effect. However, place dependence (PD) was negatively correlated with pro-environmental behaviors. This study provides guidelines for local governments and policymakers to promote residents’ pro-environmental behaviors and improve environmental management.
Research and evaluation of high-quality development of pearl River Delta and urban conglomeration based on energy consumption
Authors: Huan Yisha , Ye Xinyun
Published: June 2024

In the framework of “dual carbon,” the correlation between energy usage and the enduring advancement of the Pearl River Delta (PRD) urban cluster, emblematic of China’s reform and opening policies, has garnered considerable interest across different segments of society. The problem of measuring regional high-quality development is related to many indicators and variables, and the quantitative measurement of this topic is a complex systematic project. Based on the high degree of specificity of the region, we have constructed a dynamic and comprehensive measurement system of advanced development for the nine cities in the PRD region using the degree of intensive socio-economic development, the construction of a regional social security system, the structure and efficiency of energy consumption, and the degree of harmony between human beings and the natural environment as the secondary indicators. Utilizing relevant data throughout the period spanning from 2005 to 2020, encompassing the nine cities within the PRD region. The study utilized various methodologies including the kernel density estimation model, GIS spatial model, Dagum Gini coefficient method, and simulation calculations to delve into the current status and trends of advanced development in the PRD urban conglomeration. It also examined the primary barriers to high-quality development in the PRD urban conglomeration and the mechanisms underlying internal coordination development within the urban conglomeration. The research suggests that enhancing the advanced development level in the PRD urban conglomeration relies on improving energy utilization efficiency, transitioning traditional industries, and promoting the development of eco-friendly industries. These findings offer decision-makers valuable insights and practical guidance for advancing high-quality development in the PRD urban conglomeration.
Vehicle greenhouse gas emission factors based on multi-dimensional Bin interval mode
Authors: Wu Rui , Zhang Hao , Yang Daoyuan , Liu Yu , Yu Hanzhengnan , Zhang Xinyu , An Xianpan , Ma Kunqi , Liang Yongkai , Xu Hang
Published: June 2024

The emission factors of greenhouse gases from motor vehicles are of significant importance for low-carbon and environmentally friendly initiatives. This paper focuses on greenhouse gas emission factors of heavy-duty vehicles. The multi-dimensional Bin interval mode are proposed, which considers multiple parameters such as vehicle speed, acceleration, torque, and rotational speed. Based on this, the emission characteristics of greenhouse gases from heavy-duty vehicles. are investigated under different parameter conditions. The results indicate that as the VSPA value or the engine torque increases, the CO2 emission factor also increases accordingly. The CO2 emission factor is lower at medium to high rotational speeds, while it tends to increase at low rotational speeds. The research findings provide support for monitoring and evaluating greenhouse gas emissions and offer scientific guidance for formulating specific carbon reduction policies, emission targets, and plans.