bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Transformation Game: Joining Forces for Verification
Authors: Beyer Dirk , Lee Nian-Ze
Published: November 2024

Transformation plays a key role in verification technology, conveying information across different abstraction layers and underpinning the correctness, efficiency, and usability of formal-methods tools. Nevertheless, transformation procedures are often tightly coupled with individual verifiers, and thus, hard to reuse across different tools. The lack of modularity incurs repeated engineering effort and the risk of bugs in the process of ‘reinventing the wheel’. It can be seen as a new paradigm to construct verification technology by employing standardized formats and interfaces for information exchange, and by building modular transformers between verification artifacts. Following this paradigm of modular transformation, recent works have (1) enhanced and complemented the state of the art by transforming verification tasks and applying tools for other modeling languages or specifications, (2) built new tools by combining mature ones via standardized formats for exchanging verification artifacts, and (3) communicated certificates of verification results to improve usability and explainability. In this paper, we survey existing transformation procedures and advocate the paradigm of modular transformation and exchange formats. Our vision is an ecosystem of reusable verification components that supports joining forces of all available techniques, allows agile development of new tools, and provides a common ground to evaluate and compare future scientific advancements: via modular transformation.
Final-state rescattering mechanism of charmed baryon decays
Authors: Jia Cai-Ping , Jiang Hua-Yu , Wang Jian-Peng , Yu Fu-Sheng
Published: November 2024

Abstract

The dynamical studies on the non-leptonic weak decays of charmed baryons are always challenging, due to the large non-perturbative contributions at the charm scale. In this work, we develop the final-state rescattering mechanism to study the two-body non-leptonic decays of charmed baryons. The final-state interaction is a physical picture of long-distance effects. Instead of using the Cutkosky rule to calculate the hadronic triangle diagrams which can only provide the imaginary part of decay amplitudes, we point out that the loop integral is more appropriate, as both the real parts and the imaginary parts of amplitudes can be calculated completely. In this way, it can be obtained for the non-trivial strong phases which are essential to calculate CP violations. With the physical picture of long-distance effects and the reasonable method of calculations, it is amazingly achieved that all the nine existing experimental data of branching fractions for the $$ {\Lambda}_c^{+} $$

Λ
c
+

decays into an octet light baryon and a vector meson can be explained by only one parameter of the model. Besides, the decay asymmetries and CP violations are not sensitive to the model parameter, since the dependence on the parameter is mainly cancelled in the ratios, so that the theoretical uncertainties on these observables are lowered down.
Gravitational algebras and the generalized second law
Authors: Faulkner Thomas , Speranza Antony J.
Published: November 2024

Abstract

We derive the generalized second law (GSL) for arbitrary cuts of Killing horizons from the perspective of crossed-product gravitational algebras, making use of a recent proposal by one of us for the construction of local gravitational algebras. This construction relies on the existence of a state whose modular flow is geometric on the horizon. In both free and interacting quantum field theories, such states are guaranteed to exist by the properties of half-sided translations on the horizon. Using geometric identities derived from the canonical analysis of general relativity on null surfaces, we show that the crossed product entropy agrees with the generalized entropy of the horizon cut in a semiclassical limit, and further reproduce Wall’s result relating the GSL to monotonicity of relative entropy of the quantum field algebras. We also give a novel generalization of the GSL for interacting theories in asymptotically flat spacetimes involving the concept of an algebra at infinity for a half-sided translation, which accounts for triviality of the algebra of fields smeared only on the horizon. Going beyond the semiclassical limit, we compute subleading corrections to the crossed product entropy, but are unable to determine if the GSL continues to hold after accounting for these. We speculate that an improved GSL could follow from a hidden subalgebra structure of the crossed products, assuming the existence of an operator-valued weight between horizon cut algebras.
Frühe Hilfen in Deutschland – Entwicklungsperspektiven
Authors: Thyen Ute
Published: November 2024

Die zukünftige Entwicklung der Frühen Hilfen hängt von der strukturellen Verankerung, den Ressourcen der im Arbeitsfeld tätigen Fachkräfte und der Nutzung und Akzeptanz in der Bevölkerung ab. Zum Verständnis der Dynamik der Entwicklung werden in diesem Diskussionsbeitrag zunächst die zeitgeschichtlichen Ursprünge der Frühen Hilfen in Deutschland seit dem Beginn des 20. Jahrhunderts dargestellt. Weitere Abschnitte stellen die Wissensbestände aus verschiedenen, besonders relevanten Wissenschaften zusammen, insbesondere neurowissenschaftliche Erkenntnisse über die frühkindliche Entwicklung des Gehirns, die Bindungstheorie, Ergebnisse der Familien- und Präventionsforschung, Traumafolgenstudien sowie gesundheitsökonomische Modellierungen zum Nutzen sozialer Interventionen. Hieraus werden Anforderungen für eine Weiterentwicklung des Systems der Frühen Hilfen abgeleitet. Diese lassen sich konzeptuell als „Health-in-all-Policies“-Strategie einordnen (mit einem besonderen Schwerpunkt auf Bekämpfung der Kinderarmut), verbunden mit Interprofessionalität, inklusivem Zugang für alle Kinder und Diversitätsfreundlichkeit als Merkmale einer guten Prozessqualität. Zu einem weiteren Auf- und Ausbau der Frühen Hilfen muss der Nachweis des Nutzens durch langfristige, interdisziplinäre Forschungsprogramme in den genannten Wissensgebieten durch unabhängige Forschungsförderung sorgfältig geplant und umgesetzt werden. Aufwendige Methoden zur Evaluation von komplexen Interventionen auf individueller Ebene, bei Subgruppen und in der gesamten Bevölkerung, die auch gesundheitsökonomische Effekte sowie partizipative und qualitative empirische Forschung einbeziehen, stehen zum Teil zur Verfügung und sollten weiterentwickelt werden.
Simplified meal announcement study (SMASH) using hybrid closed-loop insulin delivery in youth and young adults with type 1 diabetes: a randomised controlled two-centre crossover trial
Authors: Laesser Céline I. , Piazza Camillo , Schorno Nina , Nick Fabian , Kastrati Lum , Zueger Thomas , Barnard-Kelly Katharine , Wilinska Malgorzata E. , Nakas Christos T. , Hovorka Roman , Herzig David , Konrad Daniel , Bally Lia
Published: November 2024

Aims/hypothesis

The majority of hybrid closed-loop systems still require carbohydrate counting (CC) but the evidence for its justification remains limited. Here, we evaluated glucose control with simplified meal announcement (SMA) vs CC in youth and young adults with type 1 diabetes using the mylife CamAPS FX system.

Methods

We conducted a two-centre, randomised crossover, non-inferiority trial in two University Hospitals in Switzerland in 46 participants (aged 12–20 years) with type 1 diabetes using multiple daily injections (n=35), sensor-augmented pump (n=4) or hybrid closed-loop (n=7) therapy before enrolment. Participants underwent two 3 month periods with the mylife CamAPS FX system (YpsoPump, Dexcom G6) to compare SMA (individualised carbohydrate meal sizes) with CC, in a randomly assigned order using computer-generated sequences. The primary endpoint was the proportion of time glucose was in target range (3.9–10.0 mmol/l) with a non-inferiority margin of 5 percentage points. Secondary endpoints were other sensor glucose and insulin metrics, usability and safety endpoints.

Results

Forty-three participants (18 women and girls) completed the trial. In the intention-to-treat analysis, time in range (mean±SD) was 69.9±12.4% with SMA and 70.7±13.0% with CC (estimated mean difference −0.6 percentage points [95% CI −2.4, 1.1], demonstrating non-inferiority). Time <3.9 mmol/l (median [IQR] 1.8 [1.2–2.2]% vs 1.9 [1.6–2.5]%) and >10.0 mmol/l (28.2±12.6% vs 27.2±13.4%) was similar between periods. Total daily insulin dose was higher with SMA (54.0±14.7 U vs 51.7±12.1 U, p=0.037). Three participants experienced serious adverse events, none of which were intervention-related.

Conclusions/interpretation

Glucose control using the CamAPS FX algorithm with SMA was non-inferior to its use with CC in youth and young adults with type 1 diabetes.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05481034.

Funding

The study was supported by the Swiss Diabetes Foundation and by a YTCR grant from the Bangerter-Rhyner Foundation and the Swiss Academy of Medical Sciences. Dexcom and Ypsomed provided product support.

Graphical Abstract
Crystallographic, macromolecular, thermal, and mechanical properties of Bambusa balcooa fibers: effect of two-step chemical modification
Authors: Makhatha Mamookho Elizabeth , Imoisili Patrick Ehi , Jen Tien-Chien
Published: November 2024

Natural fibers (NFs) are becoming more and more interesting to research, because of their numerous benefits, sensitivity, biodegradability, and capacity to provide sustainable products that encourage technological innovation and a variety of industrial applications. In this study, a two-step treatment approach was adopted to chemically modify NF obtained from Bambusa balcooa. First ethanol (C2H6O) was utilized for pre-treatment, followed by potassium permanganate (KMnO4)-acetone solution at different concentration and treatment durations. The influence of this modification on the crystallographic, thermal, macromolecular, morphological, and mechanical properties of the B. balcooa fibers (BFs) were assessed using X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and mechanical characterization using both treated and untreated BF. The XRD analysis revealed notable alterations in the crystalline properties of the fiber. FTIR analysis confirmed that wax, hemicellulose, and lignin had been partially eliminated. The findings of the TGA investigation showed that the modified BF could be processed with polymers at low temperatures. Under ideal circumstances, the treated single BF tensile strength increased, and SEM morphology indicated that uniform surface roughness had been attained. This study demonstrated that two-step treatment of BF has the prospective of been used as reinforcement in a range of bio-composites for certain industrial and innovative uses under the right treatment conditions.
One-year ecological momentary assessment of alcohol use, mood, and stress among individuals with alcohol use disorder during SARS-CoV-2 pandemics: a gender-specific reflection
Authors: Wenzel Julia G. , Reichert Markus , Zech Hilmar , Wedemeyer Friederike , Deeken Friederike , Spitta Gianna , Bach Patrick , Lenz Bernd , Ebner-Priemer Ulrich W. , Kiefer Falk , Rapp Michael A. , Walter Henrik , Heinz Andreas , Banaschewski Tobias
Published: November 2024

Alcohol consumption (AC) is a leading risk factor for death, morbidity, and disability worldwide. Gender-specific differences in AC and its moderators, which may serve as markers for preventing severe alcohol use disorders (AUD), showed inconsistent results. Additionally, the impact of COVID-19-related lockdowns on these differences remains unclear. We examined gender-specific differences in short- and long-term factors affecting AC in individuals at risk for alcohol dependence, focusing on mood, stress, and the influence of restriction-dependent lockdown phases. 358 subjects with AUD aged 16 to 65 were studied over one year. Daily electronic diaries and monthly questionnaires were conducted from 10/01/2020 to 09/30/2021, assessing real-world trajectories of AC, mood (MDMQ), and stress (PSS-10) during Germany’s second COVID-19 wave. Multi-level models were used to assess associations between these measures and with several within- and between-subject variables. During lockdown, women experienced lower and even decreasing mood (valence: β = − 0.2, p < .039; calmness: β = − 0.3, p < .010), while men’s mood increased from the most restrictive lockdown phase (valence: β = 0.2, p < .001; calmness: β = 0.3, p < .001) to post-lockdown (valence: β = 0.5, p < .001; calmness: β = 0.6, p < .001). Stress increased earlier (β = 0.8, p < .001) and more prolonged (β = 0.4, p = .021) in women than in men. For both genders, daily mood was positively associated with daily AC (valence: β = 0.6, p = .004; calmness: β = 0.4, p = .013), leading to stronger drinking on days with elevated mood. Conversely, average mood was negatively associated with average AC (valence: β = − 1.6, p = .011; calmness: β = − 1.2, p = .041), indicating higher overall consumption with worse overall mood. Our findings highlight the need for interventions targeting mental distress in women with AUD during pandemics, as this group faces increased mental burden during social isolation and increased risk of alcohol dependence during persistent distress.
Efficacy of sintilimab combined with neoadjuvant chemotherapy and trastuzumab in conversional treatment of locally advanced HER2-positive gastric cancer: case analysis and literature review
Authors: Ibrahim Sidikjan , Maimaitiaili Amina , Zhu Guangsheng , Ye Shengwei
Published: November 2024

Background

Regional lymph nodes that are fixed and fused into clusters or those exhibiting metastases outside the regional lymph nodes are generally classified as stage IV (M1) or unresectable. Patients with such nodes almost always need pre-operative treatment so that they can undergo surgical resection. Combining immunotherapy with trastuzumab and chemotherapy significantly improved the prognosis of HER-2 positive gastric/gastroesophageal junction (G/GEJ) cancer. However, very few reports are available on the role of immunotherapy in converting patients with unresectable cancer to resectable cancer.

Methods

In this study, we report on four patients with GC who were preoperatively treated with a combination of sintilimab, trastuzumab, and chemotherapy at Hubei Cancer Hospital, China, from January 2022 to October 2023. Both preoperative and postoperative clinical and pathological characteristics of each patient were analyzed. The preoperative tumor stage was cT4N3M1.

Results

Postoperative pathological results showed that two patients achieved pathological complete remission (pCR), while the pathological stage in the other two patients decreased to ypT1N0M0 and ypT2N0M0. None of them had nerve or vascular invasion. None of the patients had recurrences or metastases until the last follow-up (October 2024) after primary surgery. The present case report suggests that a combination of immunotherapy comprising trastuzumab and chemotherapy can improve the efficiency of conversion therapy for patients with HER-2 positive locally advanced G/GEJ cancer. This study also demonstrates the safety of immune checkpoint inhibitors in a conversional treatment approach.

Conclusion

We showed that a pathological complete response (pCR) can be obtained even with unresectable advanced GC through treatment with sintilimab combined with neoadjuvant chemotherapy and trastuzumab.
Geological evolution and construction of a glacierized active intra-oceanic arc volcano: Visokoi Island (South Sandwich Islands)
Authors: Smellie J. L. , Leat P. T.
Published: November 2024

Visokoi is a small volcanic island in the remote South Sandwich Islands and is unique in being dominated by the basaltic andesite products of highly explosive eruptions. Here, its geology is described in detail for the first time and can be used to characterize the construction of an active glacierized volcano in an intra-oceanic volcanic arc setting. More than 90% of the volcano is submarine and is composed of (1) a ~ 2.5 km-high mound formed of pillow lava and tuff breccia flanked by a low apron of mass flow deposits, together with (2) an overlying unit ~ 200 m thick composed of Surtseyan volcanic products representing a shoaling (and ultimately emergent) volcanic stage. The succeeding island commenced as a small volcanic shield composed of subaerial ‘a ‘ā lavas whose construction terminated in a caldera collapse that repressurized the magma chamber, presaging a major transition to highly explosive pyroclastic eruptions. They were mainly of sub-Plinian and Plinian type and their recognition on the island provides the first viable explanation for the presence of compositionally similar marine tephras sampled by drilling > 500 km from source, previously considered enigmatic. Eruptions probably took place under ice-poor conditions but evidence for quenching of juvenile clasts suggests that the magmas interacted with water high in the conduit sourced from melting of a small ice cap. The major period of high-discharge sub-Plinian and Plinian eruptions appears to have ended and any future events shall probably comprise small-volume eruptions forming Strombolian scoria cones or glaciovolcanic tuff cones.
Surgical outcomes and long-term survival of laparoscopic distal gastrectomy at high-volume centers in Korea and China: a two-centered retrospective analysis
Authors: Wang Sen , Park Ji-Hyeon , Li Qingya , Shen Yikai , Kim Jee-Sun , Park Do-Joong , Kong Seong-Ho , Fang Haisheng , Lee Hye-Seung , Wang Linjun , Zhang Diancai , Xu Hao , Lee Hyuk-Joon , Xu Zekuan , Yang Han-Kwang
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Laparoscopic distal gastrectomy is now widely used in East Asia and worldwide with different preferences and outcomes. This study aimed to compare the short- and long-term outcomes and preferences between two high-volume gastric cancer centers in Korea and China.

Methods

Patients who underwent laparoscopic-assisted distal gastrectomy (LADG) and totally laparoscopic distal gastrectomy (TLDG) for gastric cancer from Seoul National University Hospital (SNUH) and the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University (NMUH) from 2017 to 2020 were enrolled in this study.

Results

A total of 1166 SNUH cases and 847 NMUH cases enrolled in this study. The overall complication rate of SNUH (14.49%) did not differ from that of NMUH after LADG or TLDG (12.28%). The anastomosis-related complications rate (2.74%) did not show a significant difference with that of NMUH (2.01%) either. The median postoperative hospital stay for SNUH (7,(7,10)) was shorter than that for NMUH (8,(7,9)). The 5-year overall survival (OS) rate of SNUH was not significantly different from that of NMUH.

Conclusion

There was no significant difference in the overall complication rate, anastomosis-related complication rate, resected lymph nodes, and 5- year overall survival rate between SNUH and NMUH except for the postoperative stay. Both the LADG and TLDG achieved satisfactory short- and long-term outcomes when performed by surgeons with adequate experience.
Database study of risk factors for breast cancer-related lymphedema: a statistical analysis of 2359 cases over 10 years
Authors: Matsumoto Akihiro , Ushio Kai , Kimura Hiroaki , Tomioka Shinichi , Sasada Shinsuke , Asaeda Makoto , Nakashima Yuki , Fukuhara Koki , Mikami Yukio
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Identifying risk factors for breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL) is crucial for its prevention, necessitating large-scale epidemiological studies. Despite their suitability for large-scale surveys, to our knowledge, databases have not been the basis of any study done to investigate BCRL risk factors. This study aimed to test the hypothesis that a database-based study would be useful for identifying BCRL risk factors.

Methods

Patients with breast cancer diagnosed between April 2009 and March 2020 were identified from the Hiroshima University Hospital’s medical database. This retrospective observational study validated the risk factors for BCRL using logistic regression analysis (p < 0.05).

Results

Among the total 4471 breast cancer patients identified, 2359 met the study criteria, with a BCRL incidence of 4.8%. Identified risk factors included obesity with a BMI of 25–30 (OR = 3.066, 95% CI 1.408–6.677), severe obesity with a BMI > 30 (OR = 5.791, 95% CI 2.239–14.97), surgical axillary lymph node dissection (OR = 3.212, 95% CI 1.918–5.378), chemotherapy with docetaxel (OR = 1.795, 95% CI 1.062–3.032), and conventional radiation to the breast or chest wall including lymph nodes in the irradiated area (OR = 3.299, 95% CI 1.842–5.910).

Conclusions

The BCRL risk factors identified by our database analysis were in line with those documented in previous studies, indicating the usefulness of database-based studies. Future studies should include more patients and study items.
Group-selection system as alternative management of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) forests facing climate change
Authors: Szmyt Janusz
Published: November 2024

The Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) is economically and ecologically the most important forest tree species in Poland with its aerial share estimated at 59% and share in growing stock at 68%. Pine forests have been managed according to even-aged silviculture for decades, resulting in a simplified structure and increased vulnerability to climatic stress. Structurally simple forests also show low resilience and adaptability to the observed global changes. The growing awareness of the risks associated with global change is drawing particular attention to the need for alternative management of pine forests that meets the expectations of the public and foresters themselves. In 1992, an experiment with uneven-aged silviculture for pine forest was established in the Gubin Forest District (western Poland). Based on data collected from 49 permanent circular plots (size of 500 m2 each) covering approximately 30 ha of Scots pine forest, the effect of such silviculture on stand structure was analyzed. Dbh, total tree height, tree status, and tree coordinates (x, y) were measured on each plot. Measurements and observations were taken twice, in 1992 and 2019. Structural indices describing different aspects (size structure, vertical structure, spatial structure) were calculated. The dynamics of the stand structure were then analyzed over 27 years, during which the forest was managed under alternative management strategies. The results showed that group-selection cuttings promote strong differentiation of stand structure. The positive effect of such silviculture can be observed in each aspect of the stand structure. Together with other research findings, the results confirm the effectiveness of this alternative silviculture to diversify simplified pine forests to be better adapted to novel environmental conditions.
Effects on lymph node size, staging and primary tumor histology on diagnostic accuracy of axillary lymph node aspirate of breast cancers
Authors: Li Joshua J. X. , Ng Joanna K. M. , Hon Nikki K. Y. , See Ka Wun , Tsang Julia Y. S. , Tse Gary M.
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Fine-needle aspiration cytology is preferred for axillary lymph node metastasis with low costs and minimal risks. To improve diagnostic performance by incorporating clinical-radiological-pathological parameters, a large cohort pre-operative aspirates in were reviewed for parameters affecting adequacy rate and accuracy.

Methods

Axillary nodal aspirates from three institutions with histologic correlation were retrieved. Case notes were reviewed for parameters pertaining to the primary tumor, nodal status, histologic and cytologic diagnoses.

Results

Totally 1361 specimens were included. The risk of malignancy for C1–C5 categories were 53.39%, 27.45%, 70.97%, 83.33% and 88.00%, increasing to 75.86%, 94.59% and 99.28% for C3/C4/C5 categories excluding cases with neoadjuvant therapy. Node size (p < 0.001) and histologic grade (p = 0.003) of primary tumor positively correlated with specimen adequacy. Presence of in situ component trended towards inadequacy (p = 0.069). Lymph node size remained a strong predictor of concordant cytologic diagnosis (p < 0.001). A higher percentage of involved node (p = 0.006) and HER2 overexpressed breast cancers (p = 0.027) increased concordance. Cases with ≥ 4 (up to ≥ 10) positive nodes were more likely to be concordant (p = 0.009– < 0.001), with improvements of 8.27%–12.37%. For size, cut-offs of ≥ 5 and ≥ 10 mm were significant (p = 0.006– < 0.001).

Conclusion

It is critical that clinical-radiological-pathological findings be interpreted together with cytology. Aspirates from smaller nodes are more likely to be non-informative, irrespective of the total number of suspicious nodes, or a high-grade primary. In axillae with less than 4 suspicious nodes and/or a target node of less than 5–10 mm, the diagnostic accuracy of aspiration cytology decreases and should be interpreted cautiously.
Exploring the associations among major fields of study, pre-professional activities, and post-college job quality in alumnx of liberal arts colleges
Authors: Simpfenderfer Amanda Davis , Wolniak Gregory C. , Wise Kathleen , Blaich Charles
Published: November 2024

Across several decades of studies seeking to examine the effects of college on students’ careers, earnings are the outcome that has captured the most attention, as discussed by Mayhew et al. (2016), and large-scale efforts like the College Scorecard feature median earnings as the only career outcome displayed, presented alongside graduation rates and annual average costs in its college search website, as discussed by USDOE (2023). The study sought to build upon and nuance of prior research by examining the effects of higher education on students’ career outcomes based on a multifaceted conceptualization of job quality. The results reinforce the importance of pre-professional activities such as internships and participating in faculty research, although the frequency of engagement differed by major and student race. Ultimately, the findings provide new evidence in three areas: the associations between undergraduate major and the quality of one’s first job following graduation and the impact of engaging in pre-professional activities during college; the associations between undergraduate major and the quality of one's current job, and the mediated role of engaging in pre-professional activities during college and the quality of one’s first job; and the extent to which these mechanisms differ between alumnx from the global majority and those who identify as White.
Synthesis and characterization of NiTe-Ni2Te3 processed by mechanosynthesis at ambient conditions
Authors: Pizano José Josué Rodríguez , de la L. Olvera M.
Published: November 2024

In this work, an analysis on the physicochemical properties of materials based on NiTe-Ni2Te3 synthesized through a mechanosynthesis process by using a planetary ball mill, at ambient conditions, was carried out. Pure nickel and tellurium powders with a mass ratio of 1:1 were used as precursors. The milling speed was kept constant at 500 rpm, and the effective milling time was varied, 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 h. The structural, morphological, optical and electrical properties of NiTe-Ni2Te3 materials were studied. The crystallographic properties by X-ray powder diffraction (DRX) were analyzed, and it was determined that the materials present a mix of two different compounds; a hexagonal phase of NiTe and a monoclinic phase of Ni2Te. From scanning electron microscopy (SEM) the presence of agglomerates of particles with irregular morphologies and others in disc form were evidenced. From reflectance measurements the bandgap energies, Eg, were estimated, and it was found an Eg increase with milling time. From the infrared spectroscopy analysis (FTIR), the characteristic vibrational frequencies, 425 and 672 cm−1, of the NiTe-Ni2Te3 system were observed. The electrical properties were measured by Hall effect, using the Van Der Pauw contacts confiration, confirming the n-type conductivity in all the samples, and obtaining that sample synthesized with 8 h of milling presented the best electrical properties, resistivity of 0.77 Ωcm, electron concentration of 2.0 × 1017 cm−3 and mobility 53.08 cm2V−1s−1. The Seebeck coefficient and power factor were estimated to evaluate the thermoelectric properties of the samples. The sample synthesized with 4 h of milling presented the highest Seebeck coefficient and power factor, − 74.56 µVK−1 and 4.27 µWcm−1 K−2, respectively. The obtained results showed promising properties of synthesized NiTe-Ni2Te3 powders and its possible application as thermoelectrical materials.
Magneto-optical Kerr effect (MOKE) and magnetic force microscopy (MFM) studies on Cr/Ni nanodot arrays deposited using innovative nano-stencil method
Authors: Pradhan Sonali , Satapathy Srinibas , Nayak Maheswar , Mohanty Jyoti Ranjan , Mishra Saroj Kumar , Majumder Shovan Kumar
Published: November 2024

Nanodot arrays of Nickel (Ni) on Chromium (Cr), [Cr in two forms i. e. (Cr dot) and Cr (layer)] were fabricated by electron beam evaporation technique using nano-stencil. The deposition of a periodic dot pattern was confirmed through atomic force microscopy (AFM) imaging. The nano magnetic properties of the Cr/Ni nanodot arrays were probed using both Magnetic Force Microscopy (MFM) and Magneto-Optical Kerr Effect (MOKE) magnetometer. MOKE measurements unveiled saturated hysteresis with the exchange bias effect for the in-plane configuration and a minor hysteresis loop for the out-of-plane configuration in the Cr/Ni nanodot system. The experimental results were found to be in good agreement with the theoretical Stoner-Wohlfarth (SW) model. Additionally, the exchange bias effect was also observed in the Cr (thin film)/Ni (nanodot) system for both the in-plane and out-of-plane configurations, showing the dominating behavior of the Cr layer over the Ni dots due to its continuous layer and higher thickness. The observation of exchange bias properties was also verified through MFM measurements conducted with both positive and negative in-plane magnetic fields. Hence, this straightforward nano-stencil method holds significant promise for the streamlined production of patterned AFM/FM arrays enabling the comprehensive study of exchange bias phenomena. The magnetic properties of the Cr/Ni structure can be manipulated by depositing Cr either in nanodot form or in continuous layer form.
Relationships between flower-visiting insects and forest cover in cocoa-growing landscapes in Ghana
Authors: Boakye Richard G. , Combey Rofela , White Blánaid , Stanley Dara A.
Published: November 2024

Context

Increased cocoa cultivation (Theobroma cacao) has led to the conversion of over 6 million hectares of rainforest to cocoa farmlands in West Africa. Globally, pollinator decline has been driven by land use changes. Though land use change through cocoa expansion may affect insect pollinators and, by extension, pollination services, this has rarely been assessed.

Objectives

Our study examined the relationships between the proportion of natural forest in the landscape (reduced primarily due to cocoa expansion) and flower-visiting insect abundance, and bee abundance, richness, diversity and community composition. The effect of pan trap type (aerial or ground) was also tested.

Methods

Eighteen sites were selected along a gradient of an increasing proportion of natural forests in the surrounding landscape (from 9 to 100%). Ground and aerial pan traps were deployed in each site to sample flower-visiting insects. Two sampling sessions were conducted; during the rainy season in 2021 and during the dry season in 2022.

Results

The abundances of Coleoptera, Hymenoptera and Hemiptera increased with increasing proportion of natural forests in the landscape, while Diptera decreased. Natural forest and trap type did not significantly influence bee abundance, species richness, and Shannon diversity. However, bee community composition differed along the forest gradient, indicating that forests and cocoa farms harbour different bee communities. Ground pan traps captured more insects (61% of 19,927 flower-visiting insects) than aerial pan traps, which was driven by the Diptera as the abundances of the other orders were not significantly related to trap type.

Conclusions

Preserving natural forest in cocoa-growing landscapes is important to sustain the coexistence of diverse flower-visiting insect communities owing to their differential responses to the proportions of natural forests.
Using land surface phenology and information theory to assess and map complex landscape dynamics
Authors: Pomara Lars Y. , Lee Danny C. , Brooks Bjorn-Gustaf , Hargrove William W.
Published: November 2024

Context

Characterizing landscape ecological complexity and change requires integrated description of spatial and temporal landscape organization and dynamics, as suggested by the shifting mosaic concept. Remotely sensed land surface phenology allows the detection of even small differences among landscape patches and through time, allowing for the analysis of landscapes as shifting mosaics.

Objectives

We sought to quantify aspects of the complex landscape behaviors that are implied by spatiotemporal variation in land surface phenology. We adapted an information-theoretic (IT) framework from ecosystem ecology to capture landscape-level spatiotemporal complexity and organization and map these properties across large areas.

Methods

Phenology data were derived from remotely sensed, pixel-level time series of a vegetation greenness index, across a large portion of North America. We summarized multi-year, multi-pixel dynamics in transition matrices, calculated IT metrics from the matrices, and used matrix projection to quantify disequilibrium dynamics and long-term trajectories of the metrics.

Results

Mapping the IT metrics and their disequilibria revealed gradients in the spatiotemporal complexity and organization of multi-year land surface phenology dynamics at continental to local scales. These gradients suggest influences of biophysical and biogeographic setting, ecological development and disturbances, land use, and other drivers of landscape ecological dynamics. The spatiotemporal IT metrics were influenced by both year-to-year dynamics and spatial landscape heterogeneity, but correlations with spatial and temporal complexity measures varied among the IT metrics. Landscapes showing the strongest disequilibrium dynamics were mostly in the western part of the continent and appeared to be associated with large-scale disturbances including severe fire, forest pathogens, climate variability, and land use change—important subjects for further study.

Conclusions

This approach reveals novel features of the shifting landscape mosaic, with implications for understanding landscape resilience and sustainability. Resulting spatial data products describing long-term landscape dynamics have potential applications in broad-scale ecological modeling, monitoring, assessment, and prediction.
Hepatic encephalopathy as a result of ammonia-induced increase in GABAergic tone with secondary reduced brain energy metabolism
Authors: Sørensen Michael , Andersen Jens Velde , Bjerring Peter Nissen , Vilstrup Hendrik
Published: November 2024

Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a neuropsychiatric syndrome caused by liver insufficiency and/or portosystemic shunting. HE is mostly episodic and as such reversible. Hyperammonemia clearly plays a key role in the pathophysiology, but the precise detrimental events in the brain leading to HE remain equivocal. Several pathogenic models have been proposed, but few have been linked to clinical studies and observations. Decreased oxygen metabolism is observed in both type A and C HE and in this review, we advocate that this reflects an actual reduced oxygen demand and not a primary cause of HE. As driving force, we propose that the hyperammonemia via astrocytic glutamine synthetase causes an increased γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) mediated neuro-inhibition which subsequently leads to an overall decreased energy demand of the brain, something that can be enhanced by concomitant neuroinflammation. This also explains the reversibility of the condition.
Multimodal treatment of glioblastoma with multiple lesions - a multi-center retrospective analysis
Authors: Krenzlin Harald , Jankovic Dragan , Dauth Alice , Lange Felipa , Wetzel Martin , Schmidt Leon , Janssen Insa , Richter Christoph , Stockinger Marcus , Schmidberger Heinz , Brockmann Marc A. , Sommer Clemens , Meyer Bernhard , Keric Naureen , Ringel Florian
Published: November 2024

Objective

The presence of multiple localizations (ML) in glioblastoma is rare and associated with perceived poor prognosis. The aim of this study is to evaluate the impact of a multimodal treatment on progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) in ML glioblastoma.

Methods

Patients presenting with CNS WHO grade 4 glioblastoma with ML to 2 major German Departments of Neurosurgery between January 1st, 2008, to December 31st, 2020 were included in this study. Primary outcome parameters were extent of resection (EOR) using the 2021 RANO criteria, progression free- and overall survival.

Results

A total of 483 patients with newly diagnosed glioblastoma (CNS WHO grade 4) were assessed. 134 patients presented with ML (72 multifocal (MF), 62 multicentric (MC)). The median PFS and OS did not differ among MC and MF glioblastomas. The EOR was a significant predictor of PFS and OS in ML glioblastoma. complete-, near total-, and subtotal resection significantly prolonged PFS (p < 0.0001) and OS (p < 0.0001) compared to biopsy alone. Standard radiotherapy (p = 0.045) and hypofractionated (p < 0.0001) radiotherapy and adjuvant treatment (Stupp protocol) prolonged PFS (p = 0.0012) and OS (p < 0.0001). In multivariate analysis Karnfosky performance score, EOR, and concomitant adjuvant treatment remained significant factors influencing OS. Propensity score matching of patients with ML and solitary lesion tumors showed similar PFS and OS (p = 0.08).

Conclusion

The presented data suggests that glioblastomas with multiple lesions treated with multimodal therapy equal survival rates compared to patients with solitary lesion tumors can be achieved. The results reflect the importance of an equally aggressive maximal treatment effort in this particular and often marginalized group of patients.
La cruelle fatalité de l’existence, ou la représentation du mal dans La Possession d’Henry Bataille
Authors: Kaczmarek Tomasz
Published: November 2024

Henry Bataille’s name is often classified among authors who are fond of the poetics of “boulevard theater”, which seems to perpetuate the canonical form of drama. However, at the turn of the twentieth century, this theater underwent an undeniable crisis that undermined the very foundations of Aristotelian aesthetics, particularly those of action. The questioning of tradition is manifested primarily through a new approach to conflict, the origin of any dramatic intrigue, which evolves from a dispute between antagonists into a resolute intrapersonal confrontation unfolding within the troubled souls of characters grappling with acute suffering. While delving into evil and its scenic representation, Henry Bataille approaches this issue in an unusual manner for a French playwright of the late nineteenth century. In the play La Possession, we witness, on one hand, the expression of cruelty fueled by animosity between characters, and on the other hand, we observe metapsychological violence descending upon the poor, defenseless creatures facing the irrevocability of fate. If the first conflict (interpersonal) physically pits adversaries against each other—with physical violence being replaced by a battle unfolding on moral and psychological levels, the second one (intrapersonal) takes place within the heart and psyche of the hero, who, paralyzed by existential anguish, is torn between his fantasies and his relationship with reality.
Unraveling the dynamics of lignin chemistry on decomposition to understand its contribution to soil organic matter accumulation
Authors: Thirunavukkarasu Aswin , Hedenström Mattias , Sparrman Tobias , Nilsson Mats B. , Schleucher Jürgen , Öquist Mats
Published: November 2024

Aims

Plant inputs are the primary organic carbon source that transforms into soil organic matter (SOM) through microbial processing. One prevailing view is that lignin plays a major role in the accumulation of SOM. This study investigated lignin decomposition using wood from different genotypes of Populus tremula as the model substrate. The genotypes naturally varied in lignin content and composition, resulting in high and low lignin substrates.

Methods

The wood was inoculated with fresh soil and decomposition was interpreted through mass loss and CO2 produced during a 12-month lab incubation. Detailed information on the decomposition patterns of lignin was obtained by Two-dimensional Nuclear magnetic resonance (2D NMR) spectroscopy on four occasions during the incubations.

Results

The lignin content per se did not affect the overall decomposition and ~ 60% of the mass was lost in both substrates. In addition, no differences in oxidative enzyme activity could be observed, and the rate of lignin decomposition was similar to that of the carbohydrates. The 2D NMR analysis showed the oxidized syringyl present in the initial samples was the most resistant to degradation among lignin subunits as it followed the order p-hydroxybenzoates > syringyl > guaiacyl > oxidized syringyl. Furthermore, the degradability of β–O–4 linkages in the lignin varied depending on the subunit (syringyl or guaiacyl) it is attached to.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates that lignin contains fractions that are easily degradable and can break down alongside carbohydrates. Thus, the initial differences in lignin content per se do not necessarily affect magnitude of SOM accumulation.
GHRH in diabetes and metabolism
Authors: Steenblock Charlotte , Bornstein Stefan R.
Published: November 2024

Despite over a century of insulin therapy and recent advances in glucose monitoring, diabetes and its complications remain a significant burden. Current medications are not durable, with symptoms often returning after treatment ends, and responses vary between patients. Additionally, the effectiveness of many medications diminishes over time, highlighting the need for alternative approaches. Maintaining β-cell mass and promoting β-cell regeneration offer more curable treatments, while cell replacement therapies could be an option if regeneration is not feasible. For both strategies, enhancing β-cell survival is crucial. Growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) was originally discovered for its ability to stimulate the production and release of growth hormone (GH) from the pituitary. Beyond the hypothalamus, GHRH is produced in peripheral tissues, with its receptor, GHRHR, expressed in tissues such as the pituitary, pancreas, adipose tissue, intestine, and liver. Several studies have shown that GHRH and its analogs enhance the survival of insulin-producing pancreatic β-cells both in vitro and in animal models. These beneficial effects strongly support the potential of GHRH agonists and antagonists for the clinical treatment of human metabolic diseases or for enhancing β-cell survival in cells used for transplantation. In the current review, we will discuss the roles of hypothalamic and extrahypothalamic GHRH in metabolism in physiological and pathological contexts, along with the underlying mechanisms. Furthermore, we will discuss the potential beneficial effects of GHRH analogs for the treatment of metabolic diseases.
Enhanced Cyanide Oxidation to Cyanate via Photocatalytic Ozonation: Comparing Sol–Gel and Hydrothermal Synthesis of BiVO4 Catalysts
Authors: Vargas-Rueda Johan A. , Alonso Alejandro R. , Luna-Sánchez Rosa M. , Lartundo-Rojas L. , Cabrera-Sierra Román
Published: November 2024

Bismuth vanadate has been reported as a promising active semiconductor for visible light harvesting. However, the rapid recombination of charge carriers has limited its photocatalytic properties. As an alternative route to treat contaminated water containing cyanide ions, photoactivated BiVO4 in combination with ozone has been investigated. BiVO4 photocatalysts were synthesized by microwave-assisted hydrothermal method, as well as by sol–gel, obtaining the monoclinic crystalline structure and a band gap of ~ 2.5 eV by XRD and UV–Vis DRS. The morphological analysis, elemental chemical composition, BET surface area, stability, and photoluminescence characteristics were carried out for both samples. Although the majority composition belongs to BiVO4, the presence of secondary phases was confirmed by XPS. The BiVO4 obtained by sol–gel (sol–gel BVO) exhibited superior photocatalytic performance with a lower reaction time (15 min) to oxidize free cyanide under visible-light radiation in combination with ozone. The degradation kinetics is described by pseudo-zero-order kinetics, and the rate constant (k0) of BiVO4 synthesized by microwave-assisted hydrothermal method was found to be the lower of the two. The high efficiency of the photocatalytic ozonation for the removal of free cyanide can be ascribed to a combination of two oxidation systems and the synergy of both processes.
Investigating Optimum Hot Working Window of 2205 Duplex Stainless Steel Using Modified Dynamic Material Modeling
Authors: Gonya Elvis M. , Makhatha Mamookho E. , Siyasiya Charles W. , Silubane Ndumiso M. , Kibambe Ngeleshi M.
Published: November 2024

This paper uses a modified dynamic material modeling (MDMM) suggested by Murty and Rao to develop processing maps (PM) of 2205 duplex stainless steels (DSS). Gleeble 1500D, a thermo-mechanical simulator was used to conduct single hit compression tests at a temperature between 850 and 1050 °C and strain rates of 0.001-5 s−1. Additionally hot compression tests at a strain rate of 15 s−1 and same temperature range were also conducted on a Bahr 805 dilatometer. As per general procedure acquired stress-strain data were corrected for friction and adiabatic heating, before constructing PMs at true strains of 0.1, 0.3, 0.5 and 0.8. Microstructures to validate the PM were prepared from safe domains and instability regimes belonging to PM of 0.8 true strain. Results showed that hot processing at intermediate to high strain rates and temperature leads to formation of flow instabilities such as mechanical twins and adiabatic shear bands. Safe domain located within the temperature range of (850-925) °C, strain rates of (2.6-15) s−1 and peak η = 35% gave an inhomogeneous microstructure with presumably non-uniform mechanical properties. This region was considered ideal for hot processing of 2205 DSS provided that deformation conditions are carefully controlled to optimise DRX. Low Z conditions also provided an optimum hot working for hot processing.