bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Minimising Adverse Drug Reactions and Verifying Economic Legitimacy-Pharmacogenomics Implementation in Children (MARVEL- PIC): protocol for a national randomised controlled trial of pharmacogenomics implementation
Authors: Conyers Rachel , Halman Andreas , Moore Claire , Stenta Tayla , Felmingham Ben , Collier Lane , Khatri Dhrita , Spelman Tim , Williams Elizabeth , Dyas Roxanne , Kotecha Rishi S , Jessop Sophie , Mateos Marion K , Swen Jesse , Elliott David A
Published: May 2024

Introduction

DNA-informed prescribing (termed pharmacogenomics, PGx) is the epitome of personalised medicine. Despite international guidelines existing, its implementation in paediatric oncology remains sparse.

Methods and analysis

Minimising Adverse Drug Reactions and Verifying Economic Legitimacy-Pharmacogenomics Implementation in Children is a national prospective, multicentre, randomised controlled trial assessing the impact of pre-emptive PGx testing for actionable PGx variants on adverse drug reaction (ADR) incidence in patients with a new cancer diagnosis or proceeding to haematopoetic stem cell transplant. All ADRs will be prospectively collected by surveys completed by parents/patients using the National Cancer Institute Pediatric Patient Reported [Ped-PRO]-Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE) (weeks 1, 6 and 12). Pharmacist will assess for causality and severity in semistructured interviews using the CTCAE and Liverpool Causality Assessment Tool. The primary outcome is a reduction in ADRs among patients with actionable PGx variants, where an ADR will be considered as any CTCAE grade 2 and above for non-haematological toxicities and any CTCAE grade 3 and above for haematological toxicities Cost-effectiveness of pre-emptive PGx (secondary outcome) will be compared with standard of care using hospital inpatient and outpatient data along with the validated Childhood Health Utility 9D Instrument. Power and statistics considerations: A sample size of 440 patients (220 per arm) will provide 80% power to detect a 24% relative risk reduction in the primary endpoint of ADRs (two-sided α=5%, 80% vs 61%), allowing for 10% drop-out.

Ethics and dissemination

The ethics approval of the trial has been obtained from the Royal Children’s Hospital Ethics Committee (HREC/89083/RCHM-2022). The ethics committee of each participating centres nationally has undertaken an assessment of the protocol and governance submission.

Trial registration number

NCT05667766.
“The highest in each class was a twilight baby”: scientific motherhood, twilight sleep and the eugenics movement inMcClure’s Magazine
Authors: Sanderson Jerika , Love Heather A
Published: May 2024

In the early twentieth century, childbirth was increasingly being viewed as a medical experience in North America. Women were encouraged to engage with ‘scientific motherhood’ by adhering to medical advice and undergoing the latest medical and technological interventions. Two movements simultaneously emerged that engaged with scientific motherhood: the positive eugenics movement, which sought to encourage reproduction among specific groups, and the twilight sleep movement, which promoted the use of pain management during childbirth. While these two distinct movements had different goals, they intersected both in their intended audiences (white, middle-class and upper-class American women) and in their prioritisation of medical and scientific authority. This article builds on work that has identified connections between twilight sleep and the eugenics movement to consider the role of twentieth-century magazines in rhetorically linking the eugenics and twilight sleep movements, and how this contributed to constructing the cultural role of the ‘scientific mother’.

As a key proponent of twilight sleep, the American monthly periodicalMcClure’s Magazineis the focus of this investigation. Articles published inMcClure’sincorporated the rhetoric of the eugenics movement to promote twilight sleep and ‘painless childbirth’, while also engaging with concerns of the eugenics movement by framing the falling birthrate among American women as a social and political problem. Alongside the rhetorical framing withinMcClure’sarticles, we focus on visual material such as photographs that exhibit ‘eugenic mothers’ and healthy ‘twilight sleep babies’ to promote the method’s safety and efficacy to American audiences. This article incorporates scholarship on early twentieth-century eugenics and photography, women’s involvement in the eugenics movement, and twilight sleep and the politics of women’s health. Through its analysis, this article demonstrates that the convergence of developments in obstetrics and the eugenics movement in popular media had complex implications for women’s reproductive agency in the early twentieth century.
Association of time spent on social media with youth cigarette smoking and e-cigarette use in the UK: a national longitudinal study
Authors: Hopkinson Nicholas S , Vrinten Charlotte , Parnham Jennie C , Radó Márta K , Filippidis Filippos , Vamos Eszter P , Laverty Anthony A
Published: May 2024

Background

Social media may influence children and young people’s health behaviour, including cigarette and e-cigarette use.

Methods

We analysed data from participants aged 10–25 years in the UK Household Longitudinal Study 2015–2021. The amount of social media use reported on a normal weekday was related to current cigarette smoking and e-cigarette use. Generalised estimating equation (GEE) logistic regression models investigated associations of social media use with cigarette smoking and e-cigarette use. Models controlled for possible confounders including age, sex, country of UK, ethnicity, household income and use of cigarette/e-cigarettes by others within the home.

Results

Among 10 808 participants with 27 962 observations, current cigarette smoking was reported by 8.6% of participants for at least one time point, and current e-cigarette use by 2.5% of participants. In adjusted GEE models, more frequent use of social media was associated with greater odds of current cigarette smoking. This was particularly apparent at higher levels of use (eg, adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 3.60, 95% CI 2.61 to 4.96 for ≥7 hours/day vs none). Associations were similar for e-cigarettes (AOR 2.73, 95% CI 1.40 to 5.29 for ≥7 hours/day social media use vs none). There was evidence of dose–response in associations between time spent on social media and both cigarette and e-cigarette use (both p<0.001). Analyses stratified by sex and household income found similar associations for cigarettes; however, for e-cigarettes associations were concentrated among males and those from higher household income groups.

Conclusions

Social media use is associated with increased risk of cigarette smoking and e-cigarette use. There is a need for greater research on this issue as well as potential policy responses.
Citizen science in European research infrastructures
Authors: Serjeant Stephen , Pearson James , Dickinson Hugh , Jarvis Johanna
Published: May 2024

Major European Union-funded research infrastructure and open science projects have traditionally included dissemination work, for mostly one-way communication of the research activities. Here, we present and review our radical re-envisioning of this work, by directly engaging citizen science volunteers into the research. We summarise the citizen science in the Horizon-funded projects ASTERICS (Astronomy ESFRI and Research Infrastructure Clusters) and ESCAPE (European Science Cluster of Astronomy and Particle Physics ESFRI Research Infrastructures), engaging hundreds of thousands of volunteers in providing millions of data mining classifications. Not only does this have enormously more scientific and societal impact than conventional dissemination, but it facilitates the direct research involvement of what is often arguably the most neglected stakeholder group in Horizon projects, the science-inclined public. We conclude with recommendations and opportunities for deploying crowdsourced data mining in the physical sciences, noting that the primary goal is always the fundamental research question; if public engagement is the primary goal to optimise, then other, more targeted approaches may be more effective.
Local and global analysis of a discrete model describing the second-order digital filter with nonlinear signal processors
Authors: Yang Qing-Rui , Li Xian-Feng , Yang Zhe , Leung Andrew Y.-T.
Published: May 2024

The paper devotes to the synthesis of local and global analysis of a discrete model describing the second-order digital filter with nonlinear signal processors. The discrete model gives rise to a two-dimensional non-invertible map, whose basins of attraction have complicated topological structures due to the intrinsic multi-stability. The influences of joint parameters on the local dynamics are presented in great details. Both theoretical and numerical results are plotted on the two-dimensional parametric planes. To show more detailed bifurcation structure, the isoclines are extended to higher periodic orbits for detecting the cusps of resonant entrainments. Invariant manifolds and critical curves are employed to illustrate the global dynamics of the model vividly. The tangency and intersections of invariant manifolds expound the process of erosions of basins of attraction. The global bifurcations of basins of attraction are deduced dynamically by critical curves.
Crashworthiness Analysis of Self-Similar Nested Hierarchical Hexagonal Tubes
Authors: Zhang Fuxian , Liu Fuyun , Deng Xiaolin , Chen Yuwen , Cai Zhenzhen
Published: May 2024

To enhance the crashworthiness of thin-walled structures, this study proposes a self-similar nested hierarchical hexagonal tube. This innovative design incorporates the hierarchical technique into the structural configuration of hexagonal thin-walled tubes. Numerical analysis, conducted using a validated finite element model, reveals that the proposed self-similar nested hierarchical hexagonal tube (SNHHT) significantly enhances energy absorption compared to traditional hexagonal tubes, maintaining consistent wall thickness and mass conditions. Particularly noteworthy is the improvement in energy absorption indexes under the same mass condition, with SNHHT-4 demonstrating enhancements of up to 76.45% and 86.84% in energy absorption and crushing force efficiency, respectively, while concurrently achieving a 4.11% reduction in initial peak crash force. Subsequently, a parametric study exploring wall thickness, shape factor, and various rib thicknesses was performed to investigate structural crashworthiness. Finally, employing the simplified super-folded element method, the theoretical formulation of mean crushing force was derived, and its accuracy was validated through numerical simulations.
Implementation of Low Carbon Supply Chain Management Practices (LCSCMP) in Indian Manufacturing Industries using ISM-DEMATEL
Authors: Gupta Vivek , Jayant Arvind , Singh Kulwant , Kumar Navin
Published: May 2024

Low-carbon supply chain management (LCSCM) strategies are required in the Indian manufacturing industries due to rapidly growing energy usage for financial and environmental reasons. LCSCM technologies face several challenges that limit their adoption. Eleven hurdles were selected from the literature and the recommendations of one business expert and one academic expert. These barriers are defined by several factors, including a lack of information, financial worries, environmental concerns, and governmental limits, among others. In addition, efforts are being made to quantify the most optimal relevant barriers using multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) techniques such as interpretive structural modeling (ISM) and the decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL). The MICMAC analysis estimates the sensitivity and priority of barriers based on dependency and driving power. One of these barriers is a needed factor; three are driving elements; four barriers are linked factors; and three are self-sufficient factors. The findings of this study can help academic specialists, industry representatives, and practitioners in their ongoing attempts to adopt “LCSCM techniques” in Indian manufacturing industries. The model is appropriately explained and applies the link between the barriers. The objective of this paper is to evaluate and select the most influential barriers to adopting LCSCM in the Indian manufacturing sector that are interrelated.
Geometric potential in nano/microelectromechanical systems: Part I mathematical model
Authors: Anjum Naveed , He Ji-Huan
Published: May 2024

In recent decades, nano/microelectromechanical systems (N/MEMS) have garnered significant attention due to their appealing characteristics, such as compact size, batch fabrication capabilities, high reliability and low power consumption. However, these vibratory systems often present challenges, including zero conditions at the initial time, involving zero velocity and zero displacement, which complicates the solution process. Nonetheless, the theory of geometric potential offers insights into various phenomena in nanoscience and nanotechnology. In this paper, we implement the theory of geometric potential to develop an N/MEMS model. We then analyze the periodicity property of the nonlinear system using a novel method based on Sturm’s algorithm. Our analysis reveals that the model with zero initial conditions exhibits periodic solution under specific conditions on lumped parameter. Finally, we validate our findings by comparing them with numerically achieved results.
Gravitational baryogenesis in f(Q,C) gravity
Authors: Samaddar Amit , Singh S. Surendra , Muhammad Shah , Zotos Euaggelos E.
Published: May 2024

The matter–anti-matter asymmetry in the early Universe’s history is explained theoretically by the baryogenesis. It is well known that modified gravity theories are highly effective in explaining the Universe’s current accelerated state. In this paper, we examine the gravitational baryogenesis for [Formula: see text] gravity, where [Formula: see text] is the non-metricity scalar and [Formula: see text] is the boundary term. To perform the baryogenesis, we assume linear, nonlinear and logarithmic forms of [Formula: see text]. We evaluate the baryon-to-entropy ratio for our models by assuming the power law form of the scale factor [Formula: see text]. We also investigate the generalized baryogenesis for our model by assuming the interaction term [Formula: see text]. We constrain the model parameters by comparing with the observational value [Formula: see text]. Our derived models are physically viable.
An Exploration of China’s Image Perception, Influencing Factors and Communication Strategies from a Latin American Perspective — An Empirical Study Based on the 2001–2023 Latin American Barometer
Authors: Wang Zhili , Ye Yuxin
Published: May 2024

The world is undergoing a great change that has not been seen in a 100 years, and the international situation and international pattern are changing profoundly. In order to promote China’s “going out” and explore China–Latin America relationship to build a better national image, this paper, based on the 2001–2023 Latin American Barometer, 2001–2023 Pew Global Attitudes Survey, China Knowledge Network database and 2001–2023 Chinese government website’s reports on Latin America, government website’s reports on Latin America and Africa, tries to discuss Latin American people’s perceptions of China’s national image. This study mainly used Octopus, SPSS and other tools to crawl and analyze the data. The study found that there is a correlation between China’s national image and its national image.
A Unified Review of Deep Learning for Automated Medical Coding
Authors: Ji Shaoxiong , Li Xiaobo , Sun Wei , Dong Hang , Taalas Ara , Zhang Yijia , Wu Honghan , Pitkänen Esa , Marttinen Pekka
Published: May 2024

Automated medical coding, an essential task for healthcare operation and delivery, makes unstructured data manageable by predicting medical codes from clinical documents. Recent advances in deep learning and natural language processing have been widely applied to this task. However, deep learning–based medical coding lacks a unified view of the design of neural network architectures. This review proposes a unified framework to provide a general understanding of the building blocks of medical coding models and summarizes recent advanced models under the proposed framework. Our unified framework decomposes medical coding into four main components, i.e., encoder modules for text feature extraction, mechanisms for building deep encoder architectures, decoder modules for transforming hidden representations into medical codes, and the usage of auxiliary information. Finally, we introduce the benchmarks and real-world usage and discuss key research challenges and future directions.
Bridging Dense and Sparse Maximum Inner Product Search
Authors: Bruch Sebastian , Nardini Franco Maria , Ingber Amir , Liberty Edo
Published: May 2024

Maximum inner product search (MIPS) over dense and sparse vectors have progressed independently in a bifurcated literature for decades; the latter is better known as top-

\(k\)

retrieval in Information Retrieval. This duality exists because sparse and dense vectors serve different end goals. That is despite the fact that they are manifestations of the same mathematical problem. In this work, we ask if algorithms for dense vectors could be applied effectively to sparse vectors, particularly those that violate the assumptions underlying top-

\(k\)

retrieval methods. We study clustering-based approximate MIPS where vectors are partitioned into clusters and only a fraction of clusters are searched during retrieval. We conduct a comprehensive analysis of dimensionality reduction for sparse vectors, and examine standard and spherical
k
-means for partitioning. Our experiments demonstrate that clustering-based retrieval serves as an efficient solution for sparse MIPS. As byproducts, we identify two research opportunities and explore their potential. First, we cast the clustering-based paradigm as dynamic pruning and turn that insight into a novel organization of the inverted index for approximate MIPS over general sparse vectors. Second, we offer a unified regime for MIPS over vectors that have dense and sparse subspaces, that is robust to query distributions.
Collaborating with Bots and Automation on OpenStreetMap
Authors: Berkel Niels Van , Pohl Henning
Published: May 2024

OpenStreetMap (OSM) is a large online community where users collaborate to map the world. In addition to manual edits, the OSM mapping database is regularly modified by bots and automated edits. In this article, we seek to better understand how people and bots interact and conflict with each other. We start by analysing over 15 years of mailing list discussions related to bots and automated edits. From this data, we uncover five themes, including how automation results in power differentials between users and how community ideals of consensus clash with the realities of bot use. Subsequently, we surveyed OSM contributors on their experiences with bots and automated edits. We present findings about the current escalation and review mechanisms, as well as the lack of appropriate tools for evaluating and discussing bots. We discuss how OSM and similar communities could use these findings to better support collaboration between humans and bots.
Concurrent or Retrospective Thinking Aloud in Usability Tests: A Meta-Analytic Review
Authors: Hertzum Morten
Published: May 2024

In usability tests, the users are commonly asked to think aloud to let the evaluator listen in on their thoughts. Two variants of this procedure involve that the users either think aloud while using the tested product (concurrent thinking aloud, CTA) or after using it (retrospective thinking aloud, RTA). This study reviews the studies that compare CTA and RTA to investigate what is gained and lost by using one or the other variant in a usability test. A total of 29 studies, reporting from 42 comparisons of CTA and RTA, matched the inclusion criteria and were included in the meta-analyses. The main differences are that for CTA task time is longer, but total time shorter, whereas for RTA the users verbalize more explanations, problem formulations, and design recommendations. In addition, CTA users probably experience the evaluator’s presence as less disturbing than RTA users do.
RNA: R1CS Normalization Algorithm Based on Data Flow Graphs for Zero-Knowledge Proofs
Authors: Shi Chenhao , Liu Ruibang , Chen Hao , Li Guoqiang , Gao Sinka
Published: May 2024

The communities of blockchains and distributed ledgers have been stirred up by the introduction of zero-knowledge proofs (ZKPs). Originally designed as a solution to privacy issues, ZKPs have now evolved into an effective remedy for scalability concerns. To enable ZKPs, Rank-1 Constraint Systems (R1CSs) offer a verifier for bilinear equations. In order to accurately and efficiently represent R1CSs, several language tools, such as Circom, Noir, and Snarky, have been proposed to automate the compilation of advanced programs into R1CSs. However, due to the flexible nature of R1CS representation, there can be significant differences in the compiled R1CS forms generated from circuit language programs with the same underlying semantics. To address this issue, this article puts forth a dataflow-based R1CS paradigm algorithm, which produces a standardized format for different R1CS instances with identical semantics. Additionally, we present an R1CS benchmark, and our experimental evaluation demonstrates the efficacy of our methods.
Energy Expenditure in Humans: Principles, Methods, and Changes Throughout the Life Course
Authors: Fernández-Verdejo Rodrigo , Sanchez-Delgado Guillermo , Ravussin Eric
Published: May 2024

Humans require energy to sustain their daily activities throughout their lives. This narrative review aims to (a) summarize principles and methods for studying human energy expenditure, (b) discuss the main determinants of energy expenditure, and (c) discuss the changes in energy expenditure throughout the human life course. Total daily energy expenditure is mainly composed of resting energy expenditure, physical activity energy expenditure, and the thermic effect of food. Total daily energy expenditure and its components are estimated using variations of the indirect calorimetry method. The relative contributions of organs and tissues determine the energy expenditure under different physiological conditions. Evidence shows that energy expenditure varies along the human life course, at least in part due to changes in body composition, the mass and specific metabolic rates of organs and tissues, and levels of physical activity. This information is crucial to estimate human energy requirements for maintaining health throughout the life course.
Enhancing Stability and Activity of Transition Metal Chalcogenides: Development of Carbon-Based Hydrochar Supported Nickel-Cobalt Selenide Electrocatalyst for Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Soriano Patricia Isabel , Almonte Gio Jerson , Sungcang Chris Ivan , Perez Joaquin Nathaniel , Choi Angelo Earvin Sy , Ortenero Joseph Rempillo
Published: May 2024

Transition metal chalcogenides (TMCs) have been utilized as cost-effective alternatives for noble metal electrocatalysts, exhibiting comparable activity in the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Nickel-cobalt selenide (NiCoSe) is a TMC exhibiting significant potential in reducing the overpotential of the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). A carbon-based hydrochar support is used as a scaffold for depositing NiCoSe, ensuring the dispersion and stability of the synthesized electrocatalyst. This work develops a NiCoSe/hydrochar electrocatalyst to enhance the stability and activity of the TMC towards OER. Various compositions of nickel-cobalt selenide (NiCoSe2, Ni0.85Co0.85Se, and Ni0.6Co0.4Se2) with a chitin-based hydrochar support are synthesized. The electrocatalytic activity is determined using cyclic voltammetry (CV) and linear sweep voltammetry using a three-electrode set-up. NiCoSe2 has the lowest overpotential at 179.3 mV and a Tafel slope of 163.4 mV-dec-1. This highlights the enhanced performance of NiCoSe2 compared to other compositions.
Impact of Oxide Charges on The Minority Carrier Response in MOS(p) Devices With Al2O3/SiO2 Gate Stacks under Strong Inversion Condition
Authors: Kao Chi-Yi , Kung Tai-Ming , Hwu Jenn-Gwo
Published: May 2024

In this study, a compact model proposed in the previous work (2) was utilized to elucidate an unusual minority carrier response time observed in MOS(p) devices with Al2O3/SiO2 gate stacks. It is supposed that the number of oxide charges increases with SiO2 thickness. The findings confirmed the heightened sensitivity of device alternating current (AC) characteristics to oxide charges in the outer region. Accordingly, we explored the dependencies of oxide thickness and quality on the transition frequency (ωm) of devices.
(Invited) Luminescent InP Quantum Dots: They're Not Just Like CdSe
Authors: Cavanaugh Paul , Sun Haochen , Jen-La Plante Ilan , Wang Xudong , Bautista Maria , Ippen Christian , Kelley Anne Myers , Kelley David
Published: May 2024

There are significant similarities and differences in the spectroscopy and photophysics between CdSe-based and InP-based quantum dots. One of the more important differences is the presence of reversibly populated hole traps in InP/ZnSe quantum dots (QDs). These traps affect many aspects of the overall excited state dynamics. In this paper we elucidate the hole relaxation dynamics in high quality InP/ZnSe/ZnS QDs at room temperature and focus on the role of these traps. Specifically, we show that the presence of transiently populated traps results in extremely slow (tens of picoseconds to nanoseconds) hole cooling as evidenced by a significant fraction of the photoluminescence exhibiting a slow risetime following photoexcitation. Through a combination of chemical derivatization studies and density functional theory calculations, they are assigned to substitutional indium adjacent to a zinc vacancy, In3+/VZn
2-, in the ZnSe shell.
Unveiling Sub-60 mV/decade Subthreshold Swing in The Oxide Local Thinning (OLT) Gated MIS Tunnel Diodes by TCAD Simulations
Authors: Huang Sung-Wei , Lin Jun-Yu , Hwu Jenn-Gwo
Published: May 2024

In this study, we unveil the sub-60 mV/decade subthreshold swing (SS) characteristics observed in the oxide local thinning (OLT) gated p-type metal-insulator-semiconductor (MIS) tunnel diodes (TD) utilizing TCAD simulations. Through our simulations, we successfully replicate the sub-60 mV/decade SS behavior and attribute this remarkable characteristic to the rapid increase in electron density near the gate edge. This phenomenon arises from electron injection through the gate OLT region under a negative gate voltage, leading to a significant elevation in electron density near the gate edge. Armed with this insight, we design scaled devices to assess the feasibility of achieving sub-60 mV/decade SS behavior. By modulating the substrate thickness, we effectively simulate devices with SS lower than 60 mV/decade across a current range spanning 8 orders of magnitude.
Flexible Organic Electrochemical Transistor Based on Conjugated Conducting Polymers
Authors: Riam Shah Zayed , Islam Md Najmul , Sarker Tasnim , Budhraja Vinay , Tabassum Shawana
Published: May 2024

In this work, we have fabricated a side-gated organic electrochemical transistor (OECT) where the source, drain, and gate terminals are screen-printed on a flexible polyethylene terephthalate substrate through a scalable screen-printing process. The semiconducting channel material is made of polyethylene dioxythiophene: polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT: PSS), applied via spray coating. The OECT operates by volumetric gating of the channel through a gel electrolyte containing poly sodium 4-styrene sulfonate, transitioning highly conductive PEDOT+ to PEDOT0 through de-doping, biased by a positive gate voltage. Additionally, the OECT displayed a transconductance (gm) of 62.5 µA/V, mobility (µ) of 6.6×106 cm2 / Vs, and a threshold voltage (Vth) of -0.39 V, with the ON/OFF ratio being relatively low at 33.2. The repeatability was confirmed through the fabrication of three devices that exhibited nearly identical behavior. Future work emphasizes functionalizing the electrolyte to detect biomolecules such as glucose, pH, and ion species.
Nanocrystalline Diamond Lateral Overgrowth for High Thermal Conductivity Contact to Unseeded Diamond Surface
Authors: Francis Daniel , Ji Xiaoyang , Vanjari Sai Charan , Tadjer Marko , Feygelson Tatyana , Lundh James Spencer , Masten Hannah , Spencer Joseph , Jacobs Alan G. , Anderson Travis J. , Hobart Karl D. , Pate Bradford , Kuball Martin , Ejeckam Felix
Published: May 2024

We demonstrate unseeded lateral overgrowth of nanocrystalline diamond as a way of increasing the thermal conductivity of thin layers of diamond. The technique can be used as a way of growing diamond on top of semiconductors, creating a thin layer of high thermal conductivity diamond in direct contact with semiconductors and allowing for the encasement of GaN in high thermal conductivity diamond.
Development of Bio-Photoelectrochemical Hybrids for Solar Energy Conversion
Authors: Sharifi Tayebeh , Bohinc Blaž , Deev Dmitrii , Strok Marko , Lapanje Ales , Rijavec Tomaž
Published: May 2024

Recent advancements in solar energy conversion have identified bio-photoelectrochemical hybrids as one of the most promising sustainable techniques. This study integrates BiVO4 and TiO2 semiconductors with photoautotrophic microorganisms (e.g., Algae) to enhance solar energy conversion. Thin films of these materials were prepared and characterized, revealing a relatively smooth surface for BiVO4 while structures for TiO2 thin films deposited as nanorods. Optical properties showed band gaps of ≤ 3.1 and 2.4 eV for TiO2 and BiVO4, respectively. The point of zero charge of materials was investigated, indicating that naturally occurring biofilm formation might not be favorable for as-prepared materials. To overcome this challenge, we aimed to use polyelectrolytes to enhance attachment of cells on the surface of semiconductor and in this regards we determined the biocompatibility of using this approach. Photoelectrochemical (PEC) measurements were conducted to evaluate solar energy conversion efficiency. This study offers insights into optimizing biosystem attachment, biofilm stability, and PEC performance of coupled semiconductors with photoautotrophic microorganisms as one photoelectrode in PEC cell, advancing sustainable solar energy conversion technologies.
Durability Investigation of Low Pt-Loaded PEM Fuel Cells with Different Catalyst Layer Morphologies
Authors: Saeidfar Asal , Yesilyurt Serhat
Published: May 2024

This study investigates the durability of proton exchange membrane fuel cells against the Pt-dissolution degradation mechanism using a triangular accelerated stress test (AST) within the voltage range of 0.6-1 V. The electrochemical active surface area and polarization curves are reported throughout the AST for three different catalyst layers (CL), all featuring 0.1 mg/cm2 Pt loading but with different morphologies, which include the Pt/C weight percentages, dilution ratio, and thickness. In addition, a numerical model is employed to simulate the electrochemical performance of these samples at the beginning and end of life, considering the variations in the oxygen transport resistances and catalyst structure.
(Digital Presentation) The Effect of Coating Quality on Water Transport in the Gas Diffusion Layer of PEM Fuel Cells
Authors: Herescu Alexandru
Published: May 2024

Present study examines the impact of the quality of the GDL non-wetting coating on water transport. It is found that there are two distinct regions defined by the coating quality which present fundamentally distinct behaviours, one region characterized by few coating defects with the second marked by significant coating degradation. Simulations consider the influence of heterogeneous wetting and pinning conditions on protruding water droplets in contact with the GDL fibrous matrix. The mixed-non-wetting behaviour for a uniform non-wetting coating having less than 25% defects is characterized by a high breakthrough pressure, yielding improved transport properties in the stable displacement regime. The coating degrades under normal operating conditions and it changes the water transport characteristics unfavorably through a significant decrease in breakthrough pressure, and an up to six-fold increase in droplet volume. Various degrees of coating degradation are considered and the corresponding Laplace pressure is determined as a function of droplet volumes at breakthrough.
Chronotype and metabolic syndrome in midlife: findings from the Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1966
Authors: Lappalainen Taru , Jurvelin Heidi , Tulppo Mikko P. , Pesonen Paula , Auvinen Juha , Timonen Markku
Published: May 2024

Only a few studies have been conducted on the association between chronotype and metabolic syndrome in unselected population data, with conflicting results. In this population-based cohort study of 5,113 participants, the evening chronotype associated with metabolic syndrome in women when there was no such association in men. The result supports a previous South Korean population study of 1,620 participants, in which the association was also found in women, but not in men.
Reduced uterine perfusion pressure as a model for preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction in murine: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: van Kammen Caren M. , Taal Seija E. L. , Wever Kimberley E. , Granger Joey P. , Lely A. Titia , Terstappen Fieke
Published: May 2024

The reduced uterine perfusion pressure (RUPP) model is frequently used to study preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction. An improved understanding of influential factors might improve reproducibility and reduce animal use considering the variability in RUPP phenotype. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis by searching Medline and Embase (until 28 March, 2023) for RUPP studies in murine. Primary outcomes included maternal blood pressure (BP) or proteinuria, fetal weight or crown-rump length, fetal reabsorptions, or antiangiogenic factors. We aimed to identify influential factors by meta-regression analysis. We included 155 studies. Our meta-analysis showed that the RUPP procedure results in significantly higher BP (MD = 24.1 mmHg; [22.6; 25.7]; n = 148), proteinuria (SMD = 2.3; [0.9; 3.8]; n = 28), fetal reabsorptions (MD = 50.4%; [45.5; 55.2]; n = 42), circulating soluble FMS-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1) (SMD = 2.6; [1.7; 3.4]; n = 34), and lower fetal weight (MD = −0.4 g; [−0.47; −0.34]; n = 113. The heterogeneity (variability between studies) in primary outcomes appeared ≥90%. Our meta-regression identified influential factors in the method and time point of BP measurement, randomization in fetal weight, and type of control group in sFlt-1. The RUPP is a robust model considering the evident differences in maternal and fetal outcomes. The high heterogeneity reflects the observed variability in phenotype. Because of underreporting, we observed reporting bias and a high risk of bias. We recommend standardizing study design by optimal time point and method chosen for readout measures to limit the variability. This contributes to improved reproducibility and thereby eventually improves the translational value of the RUPP model.
Fetal cardiac troponin I levels decline toward birth in sheep
Authors: Jonker Sonnet S. , Louey Samantha
Published: May 2024

Serial blood samples were collected from catheterized, normally developing fetal and newborn lambs and high-sensitivity cardiac troponin I (hs-cTnI) levels were assessed, providing unprecedented insight into the physiological processes leading to high levels in the perinatal period. Moderately high levels of hs-cTnI found in the normally developing fetus declined toward term. An elevation to high levels peaked the day after birth, after which hs-cTnI declined again. Stimulation of fetal cardiomyocyte proliferation with IGF-1 also elevated hs-cTnI.
The Solvability and Explicit Solutions of Singular Integral–Differential Equations with Reflection
Authors: Nagdy A. S. , Hashem KH. M. , Ebrahim H. E. H.
Published: May 2024

This article deals with a classes of singular integral–differential equations with convolution kernel and reflection. By means of the theory of boundary value problems of analytic functions and the theory of Fourier analysis, such equations can be transformed into Riemann boundary value problems (i.e., Riemann–Hilbert problems) with nodes and reflection. For such problems, we propose a novel method different from classical one, by which the explicit solutions and the conditions of solvability are obtained.
Modeling the Impact of Urban Land Use Characteristics on Road Network Accessibility in a Case Study of Addis Ababa City
Authors: Berta Kalkidan Kefale , Emagnu Yonas Minalu
Published: May 2024

Rapid urbanization in emerging nations such as Ethiopia encourages participants in the area to consider the sustainability and balanced growth of metropolitan centers from a variety of angles and to offer suitable solutions. This study aims to comprehend how urban land use influences the efficiency and connection of road networks, which in turn affects how accessible different parts of the city are, to determine the influencing factors and critical indicators that enable a systematic categorization of subcity accessibility from the perspectives of urban land use. Geographic information system (GIS) techniques are used to gather and analyze precise geographical data on road networks, land use patterns, and other pertinent properties. In addition, a regression model is created to measure the effect of land use features on the accessibility of the road network. The primary questionnaire data are used to estimate the current situation of road accessibility and are used in the study validation process. This research has incorporated qualitative and quantitative approaches to sustainability. The findings imply that residential areas are 90% significant in making transport along the city, and 98% of the accessibility of the road network is dependent on land use features, including road density and subcity areas. Among the subcities, Bole, Kirkos, and Arada have 87% road network accessibility and better access to public transportation. Overall, these techniques emphasize the value of spatial analytic tools in planning procedures to better comprehend and control the intricate relationships between transportation and land use dynamics and to assist in the sustainable design and growth of cities.
Experimental Study of Condensation Heat Transfer and Droplet Dynamics on Multiple Horizontal Copper Tubes with Superhydrophobic Characteristics
Authors: Sun Hyunjun , Shin Younghun , Park Dong Kyou , Lee Kwon-Yeong
Published: May 2024

We conducted an experimental study on the condensation heat transfer and droplet dynamics on multiple horizontal copper tubes with superhydrophobic characteristics. Condensation heat transfer has various industrial applications such as power plants and air‐conditioning systems. Because condensers are typically designed in multiple‐tube configurations, studying the phenomenon of multiple tubes is important. We investigated the effect of a superhydrophobic surface modification, which induces dropwise condensation, on the heat transfer performance of multiple‐tube condensers. The purpose of this research is to evaluate the extent to which heat transfer performance is improved by comparing superhydrophobic tubes with bare tubes and to analyze the impact of droplet dynamics on heat transfer performance. The results show that the heat transfer coefficient of the superhydrophobic tubes is improved by approximately 9.5%–44.9% compared to that of bare tubes. Droplet dynamic analysis revealed differences in droplet behavior between the superhydrophobic tubes and bare tubes, including the formation of droplets by condensation, the process of droplets falling on the tube surface, and the impact of droplets falling on other tubes in a multiple‐tube configuration. Based on these results and observations, it can be concluded that the heat transfer performance of the superhydrophobic tube is superior to that of the bare tube. The droplet dynamic analysis demonstrated that the droplets formed on the superhydrophobic surface could be easily removed by the flow, leading to more efficient heat transfer. These findings highlight the potential for more efficient heat transfer in multiple tubes through superhydrophobic modifications.
Table S3 from Exploring the Complex Relationship between Gut Microbiota and Risk of Colorectal Neoplasia Using Bidirectional Mendelian Randomization Analysis
Authors: Li Wanxin , Zhou Xuan , Yuan Shuai , Wang Lijuan , Yu Lili , Sun Jing , Chen Jie , Xiao Qian , Wan Zhongxiao , Zheng Ju-Sheng , Zhang Cai-Xia , Larsson Susanna C. , Farrington Susan M. , Law Philip , Houlston Richard S. , Tomlinson Ian , Ding Ke-Feng , Dunlop Malcolm G. , Theodoratou Evropi , Li Xue
Published: May 2024

Table S3 shows the SNPs that associated with six gut microbial metabolites.
Table S6 from Trend in Cervical Cancer Incidence and Mortality Rates in China, 2006–2030: A Bayesian Age-Period-Cohort Modeling Study
Authors: Yuan Meiwen , Zhao Xuelian , Wang Honghao , Hu Shangying , Zhao Fanghui
Published: May 2024

Table S6 shows trends for age-specific cervical cancer incidence and mortality rates by region in China between 2017 to 2030.
Table S8 from Exploring the Complex Relationship between Gut Microbiota and Risk of Colorectal Neoplasia Using Bidirectional Mendelian Randomization Analysis
Authors: Li Wanxin , Zhou Xuan , Yuan Shuai , Wang Lijuan , Yu Lili , Sun Jing , Chen Jie , Xiao Qian , Wan Zhongxiao , Zheng Ju-Sheng , Zhang Cai-Xia , Larsson Susanna C. , Farrington Susan M. , Law Philip , Houlston Richard S. , Tomlinson Ian , Ding Ke-Feng , Dunlop Malcolm G. , Theodoratou Evropi , Li Xue
Published: May 2024

Table S8 shows the forward MR analyses of the six gut microbial metabolites with the risk of colorectal cancer.
Supplementary Table 15 from Somatic Mosaic Chromosomal Alterations and Death of Cardiovascular Disease Causes among Cancer Survivors
Authors: Sun Maxine , Cyr Marie-Christyne , Sandoval Johanna , Lemieux Perreault Louis-Philippe , Busque Lambert , Tardif Jean-Claude , Dubé Marie-Pierre
Published: May 2024

Supplementary Table 15: Cox regression analyses evaluating the effect of mosaic chromosomal alterations on the risk of any cause of death by cancer type
Supplementary Table 10 from Somatic Mosaic Chromosomal Alterations and Death of Cardiovascular Disease Causes among Cancer Survivors
Authors: Sun Maxine , Cyr Marie-Christyne , Sandoval Johanna , Lemieux Perreault Louis-Philippe , Busque Lambert , Tardif Jean-Claude , Dubé Marie-Pierre
Published: May 2024

Supplementary Table 10: The effect of expanded mosaic chromosomal alterations on death of cardiovascular disease causes, coronary artery disease causes, from cancer, and any cause of death
Supplementary Table 4 from Low-Carbohydrate Diet Score and the Risk of Colorectal Cancer: Findings from the Singapore Chinese Health Study
Authors: Yu Yi-Chuan , Paragomi Pedram , Jin Aizhen , Wang Renwei , Schoen Robert E. , Koh Woon-Puay , Yuan Jian-Min , Luu Hung N.
Published: May 2024

Supplementary Table S4 describes results from models without BMI variable adjustment (stratified analysis)
Supplementary Table S3 from COVID-19 Outcomes by Cancer Status, Site, Treatment, and Vaccination
Authors: Salvatore Maxwell , Hu Miriam M. , Beesley Lauren J. , Mondul Alison M. , Pearce Celeste Leigh , Friese Christopher R. , Fritsche Lars G. , Mukherjee Bhramar
Published: May 2024

Phecodes corresponding to the comorbidity classes included in the comorbidity score and their counts in the analytic tested-positive cohort.
Supplementary Table S2 from COVID-19 Outcomes by Cancer Status, Site, Treatment, and Vaccination
Authors: Salvatore Maxwell , Hu Miriam M. , Beesley Lauren J. , Mondul Alison M. , Pearce Celeste Leigh , Friese Christopher R. , Fritsche Lars G. , Mukherjee Bhramar
Published: May 2024

Codes used to define cancers diagnoses and treatments. Cancer sites are highlighted different colors and correspond to the highlighted rows of the same color in Table S1.
Supplementary Figure S3 from COVID-19 Outcomes by Cancer Status, Site, Treatment, and Vaccination
Authors: Salvatore Maxwell , Hu Miriam M. , Beesley Lauren J. , Mondul Alison M. , Pearce Celeste Leigh , Friese Christopher R. , Fritsche Lars G. , Mukherjee Bhramar
Published: May 2024

A schematic representing electronic health record scenarios and their resulting (panel A) classification of individuals with cancer for the primary and cancer recency analyses and (panel B) vaccination status for vaccine-related analyses.
Supplementary Figure S10 from COVID-19 Outcomes by Cancer Status, Site, Treatment, and Vaccination
Authors: Salvatore Maxwell , Hu Miriam M. , Beesley Lauren J. , Mondul Alison M. , Pearce Celeste Leigh , Friese Christopher R. , Fritsche Lars G. , Mukherjee Bhramar
Published: May 2024

COVID-19 ICU admission among recent cancer (within three years of positive COVID-19 test; n = 6,143) and non-cancer patients (n = 41,545) who tested positive and have non-missing covariates. The results were from the model logit P(YICU = 1|X, Cancer, Covariate) = β0 + βXX + βCancerCancer + βIntX × Cancer + βCovCovariate, where Covariate = Age + Race/Ethnicity + Sex + Disadvantage Index (quartile) + Comorbidity Score. Reference groups were age: 18 to 35, sex: female, BMI: 18.5 to 25, race: white/non-Hispanic, smoking status: never. A unit change in the continuous age variable is 10 years. The comorbidity score ranges from 0 to 6 and is the sum of indicators for presence of six categories of preexisting conditions in the electronic health record.
Data from Low-Carbohydrate Diet Score and the Risk of Colorectal Cancer: Findings from the Singapore Chinese Health Study
Authors: Yu Yi-Chuan , Paragomi Pedram , Jin Aizhen , Wang Renwei , Schoen Robert E. , Koh Woon-Puay , Yuan Jian-Min , Luu Hung N.
Published: May 2024

AbstractBackground:
Colorectal cancer is common cancer with a high mortality rate. Low-carbohydrate diet (LCD) score holistically evaluates the LCD pattern from carbohydrate, protein, and fat intake. Epidemiologic data of LCD–colorectal cancer association are sparse.
Methods:
We evaluated the associations between LCD (i.e., total, animal- and plant-based) and colorectal cancer risk in the Singapore Chinese Health Study, a population-based prospective cohort study including 61,321 Chinese in Singapore who were 45 to 74 years old at baseline. Cox proportional hazard regression model was used to determine the HRs and respective 95% confidence intervals (CI) for colorectal cancer associated with LCD after adjusting for potential confounders, including age, sex, BMI, physical activity, family history of colorectal cancer, etc.
Results:
After an average of 19.5 years of follow-up, 2,520 participants developed colorectal cancer (1,608 colon cancer and 912 rectal cancer). Overall, the association between total or plant-based LCD scores with the risk of colorectal, colon, or rectal cancer was null (all Ptrend ≥ 0.28). The animal-based LCD was modestly associated with colon cancer risk (Ptrend = 0.02), but not with rectal cancer. Compared with the lowest quartile, HRs (95% CIs) of colon cancer for quartiles 2, 3, and 4 of animal-based LCD were 1.12 (0.98–1.29), 1.27 (1.10–1.46), and 1.14 (0.99–1.31), respectively.
Conclusions:
A low-level carbohydrate diet with a high level of animal protein and fat was associated with a moderate increase in the risk of colon cancer among Chinese Singaporeans.
Impact:
High consumption of animal protein/fat and low consumption of carbohydrates may increase colon cancer risk.