bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on the Effect of the Vaginal Administration of Conjugated Estrogens Cream Combined with Progesterone on the Endometrium of Rats and Its Mechanism of Action
Authors: Li Panpan , Xiao Cenyu , Lv Zhiyuan , Cui Haiyang , Gao Xiaoli
Published: September 2024

The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of conjugated estrogen cream, in conjunction with progesterone, on the endometrium, following vaginal administration, and assess the combined dose–effect relationship with progesterone. Initially, bilateral ovaries from mature, female, Sprague Dawley rats were excised to establish a hypoestrogenic (perimenopausal) model. A conjugated estrogen–progesterone combination cream was administered vaginally for a duration of 12 days. Subsequently, this study used pathological sections, Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) for pharmacodynamic studies, network pharmacology to explore possible signalling pathways associated with the drug and menopausal syndrome, and partial validation using a real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and immunohistochemistry (ICH). The results demonstrate that, relative to the model group, the conjugated estrogen monotherapy significantly increased the uterine weight coefficients (p < 0.0001) and endometrial thickness (p < 0.001) and upregulated the expression of Cyclin D1 and VEGF. Moreover, this treatment downregulated PTEN expression. The co-administration of progesterone reversed these effects in a dose-dependent manner. Overall, the vaginal administration of a combination of progesterone and conjugated estrogen cream demonstrated the ability to mitigate endometrial hyperplasia induced by conjugated estrogen vaginal cream monotherapy. Furthermore, the effect of progesterone exhibited a dose-dependent response.
Investigation of Interferences of Wearable Sensors with Plant Growth
Authors: Xiao Xiao , Liu Xinyue , Liu Yanbo , Tu Chengjin , Qu Menglong , Kong Jingjing , Zhang Yongnian , Zhang Cheng
Published: September 2024

Plant wearable sensors have shown exceptional promise in continuously monitoring plant health. However, the potential adverse effects of these sensors on plant growth remain unclear. This study systematically quantifies wearable sensors’ interference with plant growth using two ornamental species, Peperomia tetraphylla and Epipremnum aureum. We evaluated the impacts of four common disturbances—mechanical pressure, hindrance of gas exchange, hindrance of light acquisition, and mechanical constraint—on leaf growth. Our results indicated that the combination of light hindrance and mechanical constraint demonstrated the most significant interference. When the sensor weight was no greater than 0.6 g and the coverage was no greater than 5% of the leaf area, these four disturbances resulted in slight impacts on leaf growth. Additionally, we fabricated a minimally interfering wearable sensor capable of measuring the air temperature of the microclimate of the plant while maintaining plant growth. This research provides valuable insights into optimizing plant wearable sensors, balancing functionality with minimal plant interference.
The Migration of the Eurasian Woodcock (Scolopax rusticola L.) in the Carpathian Basin at the Turn of the 19–20th Centuries
Authors: Bozó László , Fekete István , Bende Attila
Published: September 2024

In the present study, 7344 spring observations of a short-distance migratory species, the Eurasian Woodcock, from the Carpathian Basin between 1894 and 1926 were used to investigate the timing of the species’ migration and how different environmental factors influenced it. We used a generalized additive model (GAM) to explore migratory patterns by using environmental and geographical variables. In years when the weather was colder and snowier, the birds migrated weeks later than in years with milder weather. This may be due to the availability of earthworms, which are the most important food for the species. In areas at lower altitudes, migration occurred earlier than in mountainous areas, which may also be due to the different weather. Furthermore, a two week difference was observed between the south-western and north-eastern parts of the Carpathian Basin. This difference is still present nowadays, but the timing of migration has shifted earlier than in the past, probably due to climate change. It would also be important to compare the historical data with recent data to gain a better understanding of the effects of climate change on the migration of the Eurasian Woodcock.
The Classification of Altruism Forms South Korean Coaches’ Perspective
Authors: Lee Namki , Kim Yucheon
Published: September 2024

Altruism is an important element that enables coaches to achieve their clients’ coaching goals. Using Q methodology, which enables the examination of individuals’ subjectivity, this study investigated South Korean coaches’ perceptions of altruism. Through a literature review, interviews, and surveys, 204 statements were collected from the Q population, and 40 statements were selected to form Q Samples. P samples were organized with 31 coaches registered with the Korea Coach Association, and principal component factor analysis using the Quanl program was applied to assess the data. Based on the results of this study, South Korean coaches’ perceptions of altruism were sorted into four types: type 1, ‘a perception type that considers altruism to lead to respect for the client’s presence’; type 2, ‘a perception type that considers altruism to be meaningful when practiced’; type 3, ‘a perception type that considers altruism is a mindset that leads to the development of happiness’; and type 4, ‘a perception type that considers altruism to be a basic attitude that coaches should have’. The results of this study will further clarify coaches’ perceptions of altruism, enabling them to receive the necessary training, develop their character, and achieve inner maturity. This, in turn, will help them improve their attitudes towards clients and further enhance their ethics and professionalism.
Effect of United Expanding Admixture on Autogenous Shrinkage and Early Age Mechanical Properties of High-Strength Engineered Cementitious Composites
Authors: Shrestha Ajad , Ahmad Nauman , Zhang Zhi , Rawat Sanket , Li Lingzhi
Published: September 2024

High-strength engineered cementitious composites (HS-ECCs) have garnered significant attention for their superior mechanical properties and ductility. However, their high autogenous shrinkage, caused by a low water-to-binder ratio, high cementitious content, and lack of coarse aggregate, often results in early-age cracking, limiting their broader use in civil engineering. Incorporating iron sand in HS-ECCs has enhanced their mechanical properties, reduced the carbon footprint, and moderately decreased shrinkage strain compared to traditional silica sand; however, the shrinkage strain remains substantial. This study aims to reduce the autogenous shrinkage of HS-ECCs further by incorporating united expanding admixtures (UEAs)—calcium oxide-based (CEA) and magnesium oxide-based (MEA) expansive agents—in varying amounts (3% to 10% by mass of cement). This study also examines the impact of these admixtures on the workability and mechanical properties of HS-ECCs. The results show that increasing the UEA content significantly reduces autogenous shrinkage strain, achieving a 40.66% reduction at 10% UEA, from 1007.31 με to 647.18 με. While higher UEA content decreases workability, as indicated by lower fluidity and penetration depth, the compressive strength remains largely unaffected. The tensile strength peaks at 12.38 MPa with 3% UEA but declines at higher contents, with higher UEA content effectively minimizing crack formation. The novelty of this research lies in the combined use of waste iron sand and UEA, optimizing the balance between workability, mechanical properties, and autogenous shrinkage reduction in HS-ECCs. These findings support the broader application of HS-ECCs in civil engineering projects requiring high mechanical properties and low shrinkage.
Thermal System and Net-Zero-Carbon Least-Cost Design Optimization of New Detached Houses in Canada
Authors: Wilbur Brandon , Fung Alan S. , Kumar Rakesh
Published: September 2024

This study focused on optimizing a model house for different locations and types of thermal systems to understand better how heating system type affects thermal envelope design, operational greenhouse gas emissions, and life-cycle cost. The study investigated six different thermal system configurations in separate optimizations for five locations. Optimization implies reducing energy consumption, minimizing greenhouse gas emissions (GHG), lowering operational costs, ensuring regulatory compliance, enhancing resilience, and improving occupant comfort and health. The Pareto front, multi-objective optimization, is used to identify a set of optimal solutions, considering multiple goals that may conflict with each other. In determining the least-cost building design envelope, the design balances costs with other goals, such as energy efficiency and environmental impact. The optimizations determine the life-cycle cost versus operational GHG emissions for a single-detached house in Canadian locations with varying climates, emissions factors, and energy costs. Besides natural gas, the study evaluated four electricity-heated options: (a) an air-source heat pump, (b) a ductless mini-split heat pump, (c) a ground-source heat pump, and (d) an electric baseboard. A net-zero-carbon design with grid-tied photovoltaics was also optimized. Results indicate that the heating system type influences the optimal enclosure design. In each location, at least one all-electric kind of design has a lower life-cycle cost than the optimized gas-heated model, and such designs can mitigate the majority of operational GHG emissions from new housing in locations with a low carbon electricity supply.
How to Construct an Urban Color System? Taking the Historic Center of Macau as an Example
Authors: Zhang Yangyang , Wang Pohsun , Wei Wei , Wang Zhen
Published: September 2024

This study focuses on the environmental colors of the Historic Center of Macau, seeking pathways to develop an urban color system to construct a high-quality urban aesthetic environment and enhance the overall visual image of the city. Based on Lenclos’s color geography and Shingo Yoshida’s environmental color planning method, this study conducted on-site color measurement, extraction, photographic documentation, numerical analysis, and color cataloging of the architecture, plazas, landscapes, and primary public facilities in Macau’s historical district. Through comprehensive environmental color investigation and analyses, the study aimed to construct a color system for Macau’s historical district, finally identifying 60 characteristic colors emblematic of the area. This study also uncovered issues, such as the lack of a unified management mechanism for environmental colors, insufficient coherence and correlation among regional colors, or the scarcity of striking colors. Ultimately, the proposed systematic approach to urban color can offer effective concepts for planning, design, and management, facilitating the creation of color expressions that align with Macau’s unique characteristics and thereby elevating the city’s overall visual image.
Dual-Action Therapeutics: DNA Alkylation and Antimicrobial Peptides for Cancer Therapy
Authors: Andrés Celia María Curieses , Pérez de la Lastra José Manuel , Munguira Elena Bustamante , Andrés Juan Celia , Pérez-Lebeña Eduardo
Published: September 2024

Cancer remains one of the most difficult diseases to treat, requiring continuous research into innovative therapeutic strategies. Conventional treatments such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy are effective to a certain extent but often have significant side effects and carry the risk of resistance. In recent years, the concept of dual-acting therapeutics has attracted considerable attention, particularly the combination of DNA alkylating agents and antimicrobial peptides. DNA alkylation, a well-known mechanism in cancer therapy, involves the attachment of alkyl groups to DNA, leading to DNA damage and subsequent cell death. Antimicrobial peptides, on the other hand, have been shown to be effective anticancer agents due to their ability to selectively disrupt cancer cell membranes and modulate immune responses. This review aims to explore the synergistic potential of these two therapeutic modalities. It examines their mechanisms of action, current research findings, and the promise they offer to improve the efficacy and specificity of cancer treatments. By combining the cytotoxic power of DNA alkylation with the unique properties of antimicrobial peptides, dual-action therapeutics may offer a new and more effective approach to fighting cancer.
Ollier Disease, Acute Myeloid Leukemia, and Brain Glioma: IDH as the Common Denominator
Authors: Corvino Sergio , Somma Teresa , Certo Francesco , Bonomo Giulio , Grasso Erica , Esposito Felice , Berardinelli Jacopo , Barbagallo Giuseppe
Published: September 2024

Ollier disease (OD), acute myeloid leukemia (AML), and brain glioma (BG) are three apparently completely different neoplasms in terms of histopathology, clinic, natural history, and management, but they can affect the same patient. This study aimed to identify the common molecular pathways involved in the pathogenesis of all three diseases and discuss their current and potential role as therapeutic targets. A detailed and comprehensive systematic literature review according to PRISMA guidelines on OD patients harboring BG and/or AML was made. In addition, the unique case of a patient affected by all three considered diseases has been added to our case series. Demographic, pathological, treatment, and outcome data were analyzed and discussed, mainly focusing on the molecular findings. Twenty-eight studies reported thirty-three patients affected by OD and BG, and only one study reported one patient with OD and AML, while only our patient harbored all three pathologies. The IDH R132H mutation was the only genetic alteration shared by all three pathologies and was simultaneously detected in enchondromas and brain glioma in 100% (3/3) of OD patients with BG and also in the neoplastic blood cells of the single patient hosting all three diseases. The IDH1-R132H gene mutation is the etiopathogenetic common denominator among three apparently different tumors coexisting in the same patient. The adoption of mutant-specific IDH1 inhibitor molecules could represent a potential panacea for these conditions in the era of targeted therapies. Further studies with larger clinical series are needed to confirm our results and hypothesis.
New Advances in the Study of CMTM6, a Focus on Its Novel Non-Canonical Cellular Locations, and Functions beyond Its Role as a PD-L1 Stabilizer
Authors: Urciaga-Gutierrez Pedro Ivan , Franco-Topete Ramon Antonio , Bastidas-Ramirez Blanca Estela , Solorzano-Ibarra Fabiola , Rojas-Diaz Jose Manuel , Garcia-Barrientos Nadia Tatiana , Klimov-Kravtchenko Ksenia , Tellez-Bañuelos Martha Cecilia , Ortiz-Lazareno Pablo Cesar , Peralta-Zaragoza Oscar , Meneses-Acosta Angelica , Alejandre-Gonzalez Alan Guillermo , Bueno-Topete Miriam Ruth , Haramati Jesse , del Toro-Arreola Susana
Published: September 2024

CMTM6 is a membrane protein that acts as a regulator of PD-L1, maintaining its expression on the cell surface, and can prevent its lysosome-mediated degradation. It is unknown if CMTM6 is present in the plasma of patients with cervical cancer, and if it has non-canonical subcellular localizations in cell lines derived from cervical cancer. Our objective was to determine whether CMTM6 is found in plasma derived from cervical cancer patients and its subcellular localization in cell lines. Patient plasma was separated into exosome-enriched, exosome-free, and total plasma fractions. The levels of CMTM6 in each fraction were determined using ELISA and Western blot. Finally, for the cellular model, HeLa, SiHa, CaSki, and HaCaT were used; the subcellular locations of CMTM6 were determined using immunofluorescence and flow cytometry. Soluble CMTM6 was found to be elevated in plasma from patients with cervical cancer, with a nearly three-fold increase in patients (966.27 pg/mL in patients vs. 363.54 pg/mL in controls). CMTM6 was preferentially, but not exclusively, found in the exosome-enriched plasma fraction, and was positively correlated with exosomal PD-L1; CMTM6 was identified in the membrane, intracellular compartments, and culture supernatant of the cell lines. These results highlight that CMTM6, in its various presentations, may play an important role in the biology of tumor cells and in immune system evasion.
Traditional and Complementary Medicine Use among Cancer Patients in Asian Countries: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Choi Soojeung , Karki Kunwor Sangita , Im Hyeabin , Choi Dain , Hwang Junghye , Ahmed Mansoor , Han Dongwoon
Published: September 2024

Globally, cancer patients frequently use T&CM during their treatment for various reasons. The primary concerns regarding the use of T&CM among cancer patients are the potential risks associated with interactions between pharmaceuticals and T&CM, as well as the risk of noncompliance with conventional cancer treatments. Despite the higher prevalence of T&CM use in Asia, driven by cultural, historical, and resource-related factors, no prior review has tried to estimate the prevalence and influencing factors of T&CM use and disclosure among cancer patients in this region. This study aims to examine the prevalence and disclosure rates of T&CM use among cancer patients in Asia to assess various factors influencing its use across different cancer treatment settings in Asia. Systematic research on T&CM use was conducted using four databases (PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and CINAHAL) from inception to January 2023. Quality was assessed using the Appraisal Tool for Cross-Sectional Studies (AXIS). A random effects model was used to estimate the pooled prevalence of T&CM use, and data analysis was performed using Stata Version 16.0. Among the 4849 records retrieved, 41 eligible studies conducted in 14 Asian countries were included, involving a total of 14,976 participants. The pooled prevalence of T&CM use was 49.3%, ranging from 24.0% to 94.8%, and the disclosure rate of T&CM use was 38.2% (11.9% to 82.5%). The most commonly used T&CM modalities were herbal medicines and traditional medicine. Females were 22.0% more likely to use T&CM than males. A subgroup analysis revealed the highest prevalence of T&CM use was found in studies conducted in East Asia (62.4%) and those covered by both national and private insurance (55.8%). The disclosure rate of T&CM use to physicians remains low. Moreover, the factors influencing this disclosure are still insufficiently explored. Since the disclosure of T&CM use is a crucial indicator of patient safety and the quality of cancer treatment prognosis, future research should focus on identifying the determinants of non-disclosure.
DNase II Can Efficiently Digest RNA and Needs to Be Redefined as a Nuclease
Authors: Zhuang Jingyun , Du Xinmei , Liu Kehan , Hao Jing , Wang Haoyu , An Ran , Liang Xingguo
Published: September 2024

DNase II, identified in 1947 and named in 1953, is an acidic DNA endonuclease prevalent across organisms and crucial for normal growth. Despite its expression in nearly all human tissues, as well as its biological significance, DNase II’s detailed functions and corresponding mechanisms remain unclear. Although many groups are trying to figure this out, progress is very limited. It is very hard to connect its indispensability with its DNA cleavage activity. In this study, we find that DNase II secreted to saliva can digest RNA in mildly acidic conditions, prompting us to hypothesize that salivary DNase II might digest RNA in the stomach. This finding is consistent with the interesting discovery reported in 1964 that RNA could inhibit DNase II’s activity, which has been largely overlooked. This RNA digestion activity is further confirmed by using purified DNase II, showing activity to digest both DNA and RNA effectively. Here, we suggest redesignating DNase II as DNase II (RNase). The biological functions of DNase II are suggested to recycle intracellular RNA or digest external nucleic acids (both RNA and DNA) as nutrients. This discovery may untangle the mystery of DNase II and its significant biofunctions.
Gonadal Mosaicism as a Rare Inheritance Pattern in Recessive Genodermatoses: Report of Two Cases with Pseudoxanthoma Elasticum and Literature Review
Authors: Dangreau Lisa , Hosen Mohammad J. , De Zaeytijd Julie , Leroy Bart P. , Coucke Paul J. , Vanakker Olivier M.
Published: September 2024

Germline mosaicism in autosomal recessive disorders is considered a rare disease mechanism with important consequences for diagnosis and patient counseling. In this report, we present two families with PXE in which paternal germline mosaicism for an ABCC6 whole-gene deletion was observed. The first family further illustrates the clinical challenges in PXE, with a typical PXE retinopathy in an apparently heterozygous carrier parent. A systematic review of the literature on gonadal mosaicism in autosomal recessive genodermatoses revealed 16 additional patients. As in most reported families, segregation analysis data are not mentioned, and this may still be an underrepresentation. Though rare, the possibility of germline mosaicism emphasizes the need for variant verification in parents and sibs of a newly diagnosed proband, as it has significant implications for genetic counseling and management.
Development of a Controlled Low-Strength Material Containing Paraffin–Rice Husk Ash Composite Phase Change Material
Authors: Xu Hongfei , Qu Wenting
Published: September 2024

In order to reduce heat loss and diffusion of underground heating pipelines, this research incorporated phase change material (PCM) into the controlled low-strength material (CLSM) to prepare a pipeline backfill material with temperature control performance. In response to the problem that PCM leaks easily, a new type of paraffin–rice husk ash composite PCM (PR-PCM) was obtained by adsorbing melted paraffin into rice husk ash. Through mixing PR-PCM with dredged sediment (DS) and ordinary Portland cement (OPC), a controlled low-strength material (CLSM) with temperature control performance was prepared. The flowability, mechanical properties, microscopic characteristics, thermal characteristics, and durability of CLSM were analyzed through flowability, unconfined compressive strength (UCS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electronic microscopy (SEM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and phase change cycle tests. The results show that when water consumption is constant, as the PR-PCM content increases, the flowability of CLSM increases, and the strength decreases. The CLSM has an obvious paraffin diffraction peak in the XRD pattern, and its microstructure is dense with few pores. The melting point of CLSM is 50.65 °C and the latent heat is 4.10 J/g. Compared with CLSM without PR-PCM, the maximum temperature difference during the heating process can reach 3.40 °C, and the heat storage performance is improved by 4.1%. The strength of CLSM increases and the melting point decreases after phase change cycles. CLSM containing PR-PCM has the characteristics of phase change temperature control, which plays a positive role in reducing heat loss by heating pipelines and temperature change in backfill areas.
Improvement of Fatigue Strength in Additively Manufactured Aluminum Alloy AlSi10Mg via Submerged Laser Peening
Authors: Soyama Hitoshi
Published: September 2024

As the fatigue properties of as-built components of additively manufactured (AM) metals are considerably weaker than those of wrought metals because of their rougher surface, post-processing is necessary to improve the fatigue properties. To demonstrate the improvement in the fatigue properties of AM metals via post-processing methods, the fabrication of AlSi10Mg, i.e., PBF–LS/AlSi10Mg, through powder bed fusion (PBF) using laser sintering (LS) and its treatment via submerged laser peening (SLP), using a fiber laser and/or a Nd/YAG laser, was evaluated via plane bending fatigue tests. In SLP, laser ablation (LA) is generated by a pulsed laser and a bubble is generated after LA, which behaves like a cavitation bubble that is referred to as “laser cavitation (LC)”. In this paper, LA-dominated SLP is referred to as “laser treatment (LT)”, while LC collapse-dominated SLP is referred to as “laser cavitation peening (LCP)”, as the impact of LC collapse is used for peening. It was revealed that SLP using a fiber laser corresponded with LT rather than LCP. It was demonstrated that the fatigue strength at N = 107 was 85 MPa for LCP and 103 MPa for the combined process of blasting (B) + LT + LCP, whereas the fatigue strength of the as-built specimen was 54 MPa.
Exploring Bifurcation in the Compartmental Mathematical Model of COVID-19 Transmission
Authors: Kiseleva Olena , Yakovlev Sergiy , Chumachenko Dmytro , Kuzenkov Oleksandr
Published: September 2024

This study proposes and theoretically substantiates a unique mathematical model for predicting the spread of infectious diseases using the example of COVID-19. The model is described by a special system of autonomous differential equations, which has scientific novelty for cases of complex dynamics of disease transmission. The adequacy of the model is confirmed by testing on the example of the spread of COVID-19 in one of the largest regions of Ukraine, both in terms of population and area. The practical novelty emerges through its versatile application in real-world contexts, guiding organizational decisions and public health responses. The model’s capacity to facilitate system functioning evaluation and identify significant parameters underlines its potential for proactive management and effective response in the evolving landscape of infectious diseases.
Review of the Properties of GaN, InN, and Their Alloys Obtained in Cubic Phase on MgO Substrates by Plasma-Enhanced Molecular Beam Epitaxy
Authors: Luna Edgar López , Vidal Miguel Ángel
Published: September 2024

Gallium nitride (GaN) semiconductors and their broadband InGaN alloys in their hexagonal phase have been extensively studied over the past 30 years and have allowed the development of blue-ray lasers, which are essential disruptive developments. In addition to high-efficiency white light-emitting diodes, which have revolutionized lighting technologies and generated a great industry around these semiconductors, several transistors have been developed that take advantage of the characteristics of these semiconductors. These include power transistors for high-frequency applications and high-power transistors for power electronics, among other devices, which have far superior achievements. However, less effort has been devoted to studying GaN and InGaN alloys grown in the cubic phase. The metastable or cubic phase of III-N alloys has superior characteristics compared to the hexagonal phase, mainly because of the excellent symmetry. It can be used to improve lighting technologies and develop other devices. Indium gallium nitride, InxGa1−xN alloy, has a variable band interval of 0.7 to 3.4 eV that covers almost the entire solar spectrum, making it a suitable material for increasing the efficiencies of photovoltaic devices. In this study, we successfully synthesized high-quality cubic InGaN films on MgO (100) substrates using plasma-assisted molecular beam epitaxy (PAMBE), demonstrating tunable emissions across the visible spectrum by varying the indium concentration. We significantly reduced the defect density and enhanced the crystalline quality by using an intermediate cubic GaN buffer layer. We not only developed a heterostructure with four GaN/InGaN/GaN quantum wells, achieving violet, blue, yellow, and red emissions, but also highlighted the immense potential of cubic InGaN films for high-efficiency light-emitting diodes and photovoltaic devices. Achieving better p-type doping levels is crucial for realizing diodes with excellent performance, and our findings will pave the way for this advancement.
Defect Passivation for Highly Efficient and Stable Sn-Pb Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Li Tengteng , Ma Fupeng , Hao Yafeng , Wu Huijia , Zhu Pu , Li Ziwei , Li Fengchao , Yu Jiangang , Liu Meihong , Lei Cheng , Liang Ting
Published: September 2024

Sn-Pb perovskite solar cells, which have the advantages of low toxicity and a simple preparation process, have witnessed rapid development in recent years, with the power conversion efficiency for single-junction solar cells exceeding 23%. Nevertheless, the problems of poor crystalline quality of Sn-Pb perovskite films arising from rapid crystallization rate and facile oxidation of Sn2+ to Sn4+ have become key issues for the further development of Sn-Pb perovskite solar cells. Herein, we report the incorporation of triazinamide (N-(6-methyl-3-oxo-2,5-dihydro-1,2,4-Triazin-4(3H)-YL) acetamide) as an additive to regulate the crystalline growth of Sn-Pb perovskite films, resulting in films with low trap density and large grain size. The triazinamide additive effectively passivated defects in the perovskite films. As a result, the triazinamide-modified perovskite solar cells achieved a higher efficiency of 15.73%, compared with 13.32% for the control device, significantly improving device performance. Notably, the optimal triazinamide-modified perovskite solar cell maintained 72% of its initial power conversion efficiency after being stored in an air environment for nearly 300 h, while only 18% of the power conversion efficiency of the control perovskite solar cell was retained. This study proposes an effective strategy for fabricating highly efficient and stable Sn-Pb perovskite solar cells.
Evolutionary Insights from Dental Diversity in Afro-Asian Primates
Authors: Pan Hao , Zhang He , Youlatos Dionisios , Wang Jing , He Gang , Guo Songtao , Huang Kang , Hou Rong , Pan Ruliang , Fang Gu , Li Yuli , Zhang Pei , Li Baoguo
Published: September 2024

The evolutionary development and phylogenetic division between Asian and African cercopithecoids (Cercopithecidae) have attracted significant attention in genetics, molecular biology, behavior, and morphology. However, less emphasis has been placed on how they have evolved morphologically after divergence, approximately 10 million years ago (mya) for Colobinae and 5–7 mya for Cercopithecinae, corresponding to the significant variation and diversity in landscape, climate, habitat, and ecologies between the two continents. This study examines whether such variation and diversity have been reflected in dental morphology. Our findings reveal substantial differences between Hylobatidae and Cercopithecidae, as well as between Colobinae and Cercopithecinae, indicating that size-adjusted dental variation mainly reveals the diversity associated with evolution and phylogenetic inertia. Interestingly, despite the earlier divergence of Afro-Asian colobines, their Euclidean Distance is comparable to that of Afro-Asian cercopithecines. This implies that latecomers (macaques) demonstrate equivalent diversity to colobines due to their extensive dispersion and broader adaptative radiation on the same continent. Colobinae exhibit more developed premolar and molar regions. However, when post-canine teeth are considered alone, Colobinae present a significantly larger molar size than Asian Cercopithecinae but not with the African Cercopihecinae. This contradicts the hypothesis that folivorous primates (Colobinae) have larger post-canine molars than frugivorous ones (Cercopithecinae). The considerable molar size in African Cercopithecinae must be associated with their more protrusive and larger facial structure rather than a specific dietary preference, being less diverse than their Asian counterparts—a trait that has evolved phylogenetically. This study also paves the way for further exploration of facial and cranial differences between the continental groups of Cercopithecinae and Colobinae, delving deeply into diversity variation due to geographical and climatic adaptations.
Factors Affecting the Adoption of Anti-Predation Measures by Livestock Farmers: The Case of Northern Chile
Authors: Núñez Camila , Roco Lisandro , Moreira Victor
Published: September 2024

Livestock farming has been a practice of great importance for the evolution of civilization, not only influencing social, economic, and cultural aspects at a global level, but also food, the economy, and sustainability, especially in developing countries, where it generates significant pressure on natural resources and biodiversity. In this context, conflict arises between wildlife, mainly top predators, and livestock farmers. Despite the efforts of different communities to implement measures against predation, the conflict continues to increase. In Latin America, the livestock sector is growing at a much higher rate than in the rest of the world, particularly in Chile, where around a third of agricultural production units use livestock as their main source of livelihood. To understand the factors influencing the behavior of goat farmers when adopting measures, we applied a hurdle model with social, spatial, economic, and productive information to assess the decision to adopt measures and the intensity of the adoption of such practices. To perform this, we used data from a survey, administered in 2014 to 476 farmers located in the three provinces of the Coquimbo Region. Our dependent variable was defined by six measures: a protection dog, night confinement of the herd, supervised grazing, anti-carnivore corral, the death or capture of the predator, and repelling the predator. The adoption decision, as well as the intensity of adoption, were influenced by the location, household size, the type of livestock, the income generated by the livestock, health management, and access to technical advice. The decision to adopt measures was influenced by the production system and whether it was self-sustaining, while the intensity of adoption was influenced by herd size and the number of losses due to predation. The results showed the importance of developing and adjusting livestock support initiatives in the study area, including those that could be created, based on differentiated measures according to the profiles of farmers in the territory.
Performance Evaluation of Automated Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) Analyzers in a Multicentric Study
Authors: Tomassetti Flaminia , Calabrese Cinzia , Bertani Fabio , Cennamo Michele , Diamanti Daniela , Giovannelli Alfredo , Guerranti Roberto , Leoncini Roberto , Lorubbio Maria , Ognibene Agostino , Nicolai Eleonora , Pelagalli Martina , Pieroni Carolina , Bernardini Sergio , Pieri Massimo
Published: September 2024

Background: Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) is an easy test used to diagnose and monitor inflammatory and infectious diseases. The aim of this study was the evaluation of the performance of three ESR automated analyzers, VES-MATIC 5, CUBE 30 TOUCH, and MINI-CUBE, involving four Italian polyclinics in Rome, Siena, Como, and Arezzo, as well as inter-site variability assessment to detect possible device-dependent and operator-dependent influences. Methods: Accuracy analysis was carried out by analyzing the same samples with all three instruments and comparing them with the Westergren method. Precision was assessed with quality control material through intra-run and inter-run precision. Repeatability was estimated by reanalyzing fresh blood samples belonging to three ESR ranges (low, intermediate, and high) six times. Results: The results showed a strong correlation (Spearman coefficients R2) between the manual method and VES-MATIC 5 (0.978), CUBE 30 TOUCH (0.981), and MINI-CUBE (0.974). The accuracy of all clinics was excellent, with coefficients of variation (CVs) of less than 10% for all instruments. Repeatability confirmed an excellent level for all ESR ranges, with CVs below 10%. Conclusions: The study proved that all three automated instruments offer optimal performance for accuracy and precision and are suitable for both large and small facilities without influences of the laboratory environment.
Photon-Counting Computed Tomography Angiography of Carotid Arteries: A Topical Narrative Review with Case Examples
Authors: Meloni Antonella , Cau Riccardo , Saba Luca , Positano Vincenzo , De Gori Carmelo , Occhipinti Mariaelena , Celi Simona , Bossone Eduardo , Bertacchi Jacopo , Punzo Bruna , Mantini Cesare , Cavaliere Carlo , Maffei Erica , Cademartiri Filippo
Published: September 2024

Photon counting computed tomography (PCCT) represents a paradigm shift from conventional CT imaging, propelled by a new generation of X-ray detectors capable of counting individual photons and measuring their energy. The first part of this narrative review is focused on the technical aspects of PCCT and describes its key advancements and benefits compared to conventional CT but also its limitations. By synthesizing the existing literature, the second part of the review seeks to elucidate the potential of PCCT as a valuable tool for assessing carotid artery disease. Thanks to the enhanced spatial resolution and image quality, PCCT allows for an accurate evaluation of carotid luminal stenosis. With its ability to finely discriminate between different tissue types, PCCT allows for detailed characterization of plaque morphology and composition, which is crucial for assessing plaque vulnerability and the risk of cerebrovascular events.
Information Thermodynamics: From Physics to Neuroscience
Authors: Karbowski Jan
Published: September 2024

This paper provides a perspective on applying the concepts of information thermodynamics, developed recently in non-equilibrium statistical physics, to problems in theoretical neuroscience. Historically, information and energy in neuroscience have been treated separately, in contrast to physics approaches, where the relationship of entropy production with heat is a central idea. It is argued here that also in neural systems, information and energy can be considered within the same theoretical framework. Starting from basic ideas of thermodynamics and information theory on a classic Brownian particle, it is shown how noisy neural networks can infer its probabilistic motion. The decoding of the particle motion by neurons is performed with some accuracy, and it has some energy cost, and both can be determined using information thermodynamics. In a similar fashion, we also discuss how neural networks in the brain can learn the particle velocity and maintain that information in the weights of plastic synapses from a physical point of view. Generally, it is shown how the framework of stochastic and information thermodynamics can be used practically to study neural inference, learning, and information storing.
Critical Assessment of Information Back-Flow in Measurement-Free Teleportation
Authors: McAleese Hannah , Paternostro Mauro
Published: September 2024

We assess a scheme for measurement-free quantum teleportation from the perspective of the resources underpinning its performance. In particular, we focus on claims recently made about the crucial role played by the degree of non-Markovianity of the dynamics of the information carrier whose state we aim to teleport. We prove that any link between the efficiency of teleportation and the back-flow of information depends fundamentally on the way the various operations entailed by the measurement-free teleportation protocol are implemented while—in general—no claim of causal link can be made. Our result reinforces the need for the explicit assessment of the underlying physical platform when assessing the performance and resources for a given quantum protocol and the need for a rigorous quantum resource theory of non-Markovianity.
A Spatial Econometric Analysis of Weather Effects on Milk Production
Authors: Fan Xinxin , Ma Jiechao
Published: September 2024

Greenhouse gas (GHG) emission-induced climate change, particularly occurring since the mid-20th century, has been considerably affecting short-term weather conditions, such as increasing weather variability and the incidence of extreme weather-related events. Milk production is sensitive to such changes. In this study, we use spatial panel econometric models, the spatial error model (SEM) and the spatial Durbin model (SDM), with a panel dataset at the state-level varying over seasons, to estimate the relationship between weather indicators and milk productivity, in an effort to reduce the bias of omitted climatic variables that can be time varying and spatially correlated and cannot be directly captured by conventional panel data models. We find an inverse U-shaped effect of summer heat stress on milk production per cow (MPC), indicating that milk production reacts positively to a low-level increase in summer heat stress, and then MPC declines as heat stress continues increasing beyond a threshold value of 72. Additionally, fall precipitation exhibits an inverse U-shaped effect on MPC, showing that milk yield increases at a decreasing rate until fall precipitation rises to 14 inches, and then over that threshold, milk yield declines at an increasing rate. We also find that, relative to conventional panel data models, spatial panel econometric models could improve prediction performance by leading to smaller in-sample and out-sample root mean squared errors. Our study contributes to the literature by exploring the feasibility of promising spatial panel models and resulting in estimating weather influences on milk productivity with high model predicting performance.
The Four Paradoxes That Stop Practitioners from Using Research to Change Professional Practice and How to Overcome Them
Authors: Hofmann Riikka
Published: September 2024

This study addresses the puzzle that despite significant policy efforts, research-use in practice remains rare in education even when practitioners are keen. Healthcare has encountered similar problems, and we know little about the nature of the challenges that stop practitioners from developing new research-informed practices. The literature on cross-sector research utilisation, professional learning and practice change all highlight the role of practitioner agency, collaboration and sociocultural norms in research-use, but we lack theoretical insights into how these play out in practitioners’ research-use. Moreover, the risks involved are rarely addressed. This study contributes to developing intermediate theory about the mechanisms influencing practitioners’ success at using research to develop new practices in education and healthcare. It develops a novel methodological approach, utilising the dialogic difference-within-similarity method, to enable the analysis and synthesis of findings from five close-to-practice studies of research-use in education and healthcare settings in order to generate conceptual insights into the mechanisms at play when practitioners use research to change practice. It finds that four key mechanisms function in a paradoxical manner to hinder research-use, theorising these as the paradoxes of agency, people, norms and risk. I conclude by proposing a conceptual model for overcoming these paradoxes to facilitate research-use at scale.
Comfort in the Role: The Core of Positive Veteran Teachers
Authors: Jefferson Sarah , Gray Christina , Lowe Geoffrey
Published: September 2024

Teacher career trajectory studies have identified a small group of positive veteran teachers who have maintained an ongoing enthusiasm for and commitment to teaching. Research into teacher career trajectory frameworks suggests that comfort in the role remains a core tenet in supporting their sense of professional identity. While studies have identified this, there is little research into the subtleties of this tenet and how this helps these positive veteran teachers remain committed to teaching. This article reports on the qualitative findings about comfort in the role in sustaining positive veteran teachers’ commitment to teaching. Further, the article points to key support measures accessed by these teachers to maintain this commitment. The ability to identify what comprises comfort in the role may encourage curriculum organisations and executive school leadership to retain and capitalise on the skills of their positive veteran teachers. This research seeks to examine an important teacher education perspective that provides valuable examples for beginning and early career teachers of practical mechanisms for positive coping mechanisms and maintaining comfort in the role in the longer term in a dynamic and demanding profession.
Association of High Levels of Bullying and Cyberbullying with Test Anxiety in Boys and Girls Aged 10 to 16 Years
Authors: Rusillo-Magdaleno Alba , De la Torre-Cruz Manuel J. , Ruiz-Ariza Alberto , Suárez-Manzano Sara
Published: September 2024

The increase in cases of bullying and cyberbullying has raised concerns about its impact on the mental health of young people, particularly its relationship with test anxiety, underscoring the need to delve deeper into this issue. Therefore, the aim of this study was to examine whether suffering and perpetrating aggressive acts (bullying and cyberbullying) are related to different dimensions of test anxiety. A total of 912 Spanish students (girls 52.7%) aged between 10 and 16 years (13.43 ± 1.73) participated in this study. The European Bullying Intervention Project Questionnaire, the European Cyberbullying Intervention Project Questionnaire, and the Test Anxiety Questionnaire (CAEX-A) were used. The association between test anxiety and bullying/cyberbullying (as victims and aggressors) was calculated via analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) and binary logistic regression. All analyses were performed separately for boys and girls and adjusted for age, body mass index, maternal educational level, and academic performance. Students in bullying or cyberbullying contexts achieved significantly higher values in practically all anxiety factors analyzed (p < 0.05), especially in cognitive responses: 33.14% and 22.56% for bullying and cyberbullying victims, respectively, and 22.56% and 23.9% for aggressors. Victims of cyberbullying harassment had a high risk (OR: 8.311) of suffering diarrhoea, palpitations, chest tightness, nausea and fainting during exams, as well as avoidance behaviors (OR: 5.106) (both p < 0.001). The results, disaggregated by gender, showed that the relationship between feeling bullied in face-to-face interactions and experiencing test anxiety was only evident for girls, which seems to place them in a more vulnerable situation. Female victimization, although less frequent, could have lasting and harmful consequences. These findings highlight the need not only to implement intervention strategies in the school setting aimed at preventing and reducing bullying and cyberbullying but also to address anxiety and its physical and cognitive manifestations in both victims and aggressors.