bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intraoperative neuromonitoring during thyroidectomy does not decrease vocal cord palsy risk, but the cumulative experience of the surgeon may
Authors: Bae Hye Lim , Oh Moon Young , Han Mira , Wu Che-Wei , Chai Young Jun
Published: June 2024

Purpose

To evaluate the influence of intraoperative neuromonitoring (IONM) on vocal cord palsy (VCP) rates and assess the temporal trends in VCP rates.

Methods

The subjects of this retrospective study were patients who underwent thyroidectomy for thyroid cancer between March, 2014 and June, 2022, at a university hospital in Korea. We compared VCP rates between the non-IONM and IONM groups and analyzed the risk factors for VCP and VCP rates over time.

Results

A total of 712 patients were included in the analysis. The rates of transient and permanent VCP did not differ significantly between the non-IONM and IONM groups. Transient VCP occurred in 4.6% and 4.3% patients (p = 0.878) and VCP was permanent in 0.7% and 0.4% patients (p = 0.607) in the non-IONM and IONM groups, respectively. Among the nerves at risk, transient damage occurred in 2.8% and 3.0% patients (p = 0.901), and permanent damage occurred in 0.4% and 0.3% (p = 0.688), respectively. Multivariate analysis revealed no significant risk factors for VCP. There was a significant decreasing trend in VCP rates over time as the cumulative number of cases increased (p = 0.017).

Conclusions

IONM did not reduce the risk of VCP significantly. However, the declining trend of VCP rates suggests that the surgeon’s experience may mitigate VCP risk.
Volumetric evaluation of osteotomy gap following mandibular bilateral sagittal split osteotomy using a novel semi-automated approach: a pilot study
Authors: Odaka Kento , Steffen Claudius , Wagendorf Oliver , Geissler Sven , Ebker Tobias , Rubarth Kerstin , Nguyen Thanh Thao , Bortel Emely Lea , Sarasaen Chompunuch , Duda Georg N. , Heiland Max , Voss Jan Oliver
Published: June 2024

Objectives

To establish an analysis pipeline for the volumetric evaluation of the osteotomy site after bilateral sagittal split osteotomy (BSSO).

Patients and methods

Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) was performed before, directly after BSSO, and 6–12 months after surgery. Image segmentations of each osteotomy gap data set were performed manually by four physicians and were compared to a semi-automatic segmentation approach.

Results

Five patients with a total of ten osteotomy gaps were included. The mean interclass correlation coefficient (ICC) of individual patients was 0.782 and the standard deviation 0.080 when using the manual segmentation approach. However, the mean ICC of the evaluation of anatomical sites and time points separately was 0.214, suggesting a large range of deviation within the manual segmentation of each rater. The standard deviation was 0.355, further highlighting the extent of the variation. In contrast, the semi-automatic approach had a mean ICC of 0.491 and a standard deviation of 0.365, which suggests a relatively higher agreement among the operators compared to the manual segmentation approach. Furthermore, the volume of the osteotomy gap in the semi-automatic approach showed the same tendency in every site as the manual segmentation approach, but with less deviation.

Conclusion

The semi-automatic approach developed in the present study proved to be valid as a standardised method with high repeatability. Such image analysis methods could help to quantify the progression of bone healing after BSSO and beyond, eventually facilitating the earlier identification of patients with retarded healing.
Safety of nivolumab monotherapy in five cancer types: pooled analysis of post-marketing surveillance in Japan
Authors: Hiraizumi Kenji , Honda Chikara , Watanabe Ayu , Nakao Takafumi , Midorikawa Shuichi , Abe Hiromi , Matsui Nobuki , Yamamoto Tsunehisa , Sakamoto Takahiko
Published: June 2024

Background

Nivolumab has been approved for treating ≥ 10 cancer types. However, there is limited information on the incidence of rare, but potentially serious, treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs), as well as notable TRAEs in patients with certain medical disorders or older patients in Japan.

Methods

We performed pooled analyses of data from published post-marketing surveillance in Japan of nivolumab monotherapy for patients with malignant melanoma, non-small cell lung cancer, renal cell carcinoma, head and neck cancer, and gastric cancer to determine the frequencies of 20 categories of TRAEs of special interest overall and in patient groups with higher perceived safety risks (history of autoimmune disease, interstitial lung disease, tuberculosis, or hepatitis B/C; patients vaccinated during nivolumab treatment; and older patients [≥ 75 years]).

Results

The overall population comprised 7421 patients treated with nivolumab. TRAEs were reported in 49.1% of patients, with grade ≥ 3 TRAEs in 16.7%. Endocrine disorders (14.4%), hepatobiliary disorders (10.9%), and interstitial lung disease (7.0%) were the three most common categories (any grade). The incidences of rare TRAEs with high risk of becoming serious, which occurred in < 1% of patients, were consistent with those in previous reports. The frequencies of TRAEs were not markedly increased in the specified patient groups relative to the overall population.

Conclusion

To our knowledge, this is the largest study examining the safety of nivolumab-treated patients in real-world clinical practice including rare but potentially serious TRAEs. We found no new signals in the safety of nivolumab among the patient groups relative to the overall population, and no additional safety measures are required in these groups.

Trial registration UMIN000048892 (overall analysis), JapicCTI-163272 (melanoma), Japic-163271 (non-small cell lung cancer), JapicCTI-184071 (head and neck cancer), JapicCTI-184070 (gastric cancer), and JapicCTI-184069 (renal cell cancer).
Mir22hg facilitates ferritinophagy-mediated ferroptosis in sepsis by recruiting the m6A reader YTHDC1 and enhancing Angptl4 mRNA stability
Authors: Deng Wenlong , Zhong Liang , Ye Shupei , Luo Jiajing , Ren Guobin , Huang Junhao , Zhuang Xiaolei
Published: June 2024

Background

Ferritinophagy-mediated ferroptosis plays a crucial role in fighting pathogen aggression. The long non-coding RNA Mir22hg is involved in the regulation of ferroptosis and aberrantly overexpression in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced sepsis mice, but whether it regulates sepsis through ferritinophagy-mediated ferroptosis is unclear.

Methods

Mir22hg was screened by bioinformatics analysis. Ferroptosis was assessed by assaying malondialdehyde (MDA), reactive oxygen species (ROS), and Fe2+ levels, glutathione (GSH) activity, as well as ferroptosis-related proteins GPX4 and SLC3A2 by using matched kits and performing western blot. Ferritinophagy was assessed by Lyso tracker staining and FerroOrange staining, immunofluorescence analysis of Ferritin and LC-3, and western blot analysis of LC-3II/I, p62, FTH1, and NCOA4. The bind of YTH domain containing 1 (YTHDC1) to Mir22hg or angiopoietin-like-4 (Angptl4) was verified by RNA pull-down and/or immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays.

Results

Mir22hg silencing lightened ferroptosis and ferritinophagy in LPS-induced MLE-12 cells and sepsis mouse models, as presented by the downregulated MDA, ROS, Fe2+, NCOA4, and SLC3A2 levels, upregulated GPX4, GSH, and FTH1 levels, along with a decrease in autophagy. Mir22hg could bind to the m6A reader YTHDC1 without affecting its expression. Mechanistically, Mir22hg enhanced Angptl4 mRNA stability through recruiting the m6A reader YTHDC1. Furthermore, Angptl4 overexpression partly overturned Mir22hg inhibition-mediated effects on ferroptosis and ferritinophagy in LPS-induced MLE-12 cells.

Conclusion

Mir22hg contributed to in ferritinophagy-mediated ferroptosis in sepsis via recruiting the m6A reader YTHDC1 and strengthening Angptl4 mRNA stability, highlighting that Mir22hg may be a potential target for sepsis treatment based on ferroptosis.
Earthquake detection capacity of the Dense Oceanfloor Network system for Earthquakes and Tsunamis (DONET)
Authors: Nanjo K. Z. , Yamamoto Y. , Ariyoshi K. , Horikawa H. , Yada S. , Takahashi N.
Published: June 2024

We studied the earthquake detection capacity of DONET (Dense Oceanfloor Network system for Earthquakes and Tsunamis) operating in the Nankai Trough, a target region monitored for future megathrust earthquakes. The focus of this paper was to evaluate the impact on this capacity from the malfunction of parts of the network. For this purpose, the completeness magnitude, above which all earthquakes are considered to be detected by a seismic network, was used. Then, a catalog that includes events observed by DONET was used. We found spatiotemporal variability of completeness magnitude, ranging from values below 1 in one of the areas where stations are densely deployed to values above 2 at the periphery and outside of the DONET area. We conducted a simulation computation for cases of malfunction of densely distributed stations. The results showed that completeness estimates in the area near the malfunctioning stations were about 1 magnitude larger. This implies that malfunction repair and/or replacement with new stations would be desirable because they pronouncedly affect earthquake monitoring. We then demonstrated an example of how to use the information of completeness magnitude as prior knowledge to compute thebvalue of the Gutenberg-Richter distribution. The result indicates thebvalue as a proxy that can help to image stress heterogeneity when there is a magnitude-6 class slow slip event on the Nankai Trough plate boundary.
Intracranial angioleiomyoma: a case series of seven patients and review of the literature
Authors: Ivren Meltem , Cherkezov Asan , Reuss David , Haux Daniel , Herold-Mende Christel , Mohr Alexander , Krieg Sandro M. , Unterberg Andreas , Younsi Alexander
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Angioleiomyoma, predominantly arising from the extremities, is a benign soft tissue tumor. Reports on its intracranial location are rare. We assessed clinical, radiological, and pathological features of intracranial angioleiomyoma (iALM) treated at our neurosurgical institution.

Methods

We consecutively enrolled all patients with neuropathologically confirmed iALM treated at a single neurosurgical institution between 2013 and 2021. Clinical and imaging data were collected, and histological tissue sections were analyzed. A review of the literature on iALM was conducted.

Results

Seven patients with iALM (four female) with a median age of 45 years (range: 32–76 years) were identified. In three cases, the lesion was found incidentally. In magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), all tumors were hypo- to isointense on T1-weighted, hyperintense on T2-weighted sequences, and gadolinium-enhancing. A strong FLAIR signal was seen in six patients. Surgery consisted of gross total resection in all cases without perioperative complications. Neuropathological staining was positive for smooth muscle actin (SMA) in all lesions. Mature smooth muscle cells arranged around blood vessels were typically observed. The Ki-67 index was ≤ 3%. The patients were discharged after a median of 6 days (range: 4–9 days). During a median follow-up time of 14 months (range: 4–41 months), no tumor recurrence occurred. In the current literature, 42 additional cases of iALM were identified.

Conclusion

Intracranial angioleiomyoma is a benign soft tissue tumor treated by gross total resection. Tumor morphology and positive staining for SMA lead to the neuropathological diagnosis.
Computer-aided design and fabrication of nasal prostheses: a semi-automated algorithm using statistical shape modeling
Authors: Bannink T. , de Ridder M. , Bouman S. , van Alphen M. J. A. , van Veen R. L. P. , van den Brekel M. W. M. , Karakullukçu M. B.
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This research aimed to develop an innovative method for designing and fabricating nasal prostheses that reduces anaplastologist expertise dependency while maintaining quality and appearance, allowing patients to regain their normal facial appearance.

Methods

The method involved statistical shape modeling using a morphable face model and 3D data acquired through optical scanning or CT. An automated design process generated patient-specific fits and appearances using regular prosthesis materials and 3D printing of molds. Manual input was required for specific case-related details.

Results

The developed method met all predefined requirements, replacing analog impression-making and offering compatibility with various data acquisition methods. Prostheses created through this method exhibited equivalent aesthetics to conventionally fabricated ones while reducing the skill dependency typically associated with prosthetic design and fabrication.

Conclusions

This method provides a promising approach for both temporary and definitive nasal prostheses, with the potential for remote prosthesis fabrication in areas lacking anaplastology care. While new skills are required for data acquisition and algorithm control, these technologies are increasingly accessible. Further clinical studies will help validate its effectiveness, and ongoing technological advancements may lead to even more advanced and skill-independent prosthesis fabrication methods in the future.
Zwischen Allgemeinem und Speziellem – Profildynamiken erziehungswissenschaftlicher Hauptfachstudiengänge seit der Bolognareform
Authors: Grunert Cathleen , Ludwig Katja
Published: June 2024

Der Beitrag zeichnet auf der Basis quantitativer Inhaltsanalysen von Studienprogrammen erziehungswissenschaftlicher Hauptfachstudiengänge deren Entwicklungs- und Profilbildungsdynamiken seit der Bolognareform nach, die das europäische Hochschulsystem grundlegend verändert hat. Im Fokus stehen dabei die seit der Einführung dieser Studiengänge Ende der 1960er-Jahre geführten Debatten um die Verhältnisbestimmung von allgemein-erziehungswissenschaftlichen und spezifisch-handlungsfeldbezogenen Studienanteilen. Diskutiert werden diese Befunde anhand qualitativ gewonnener Einblicke in die standortspezifischen Aushandlungsprozesse um die Implementation von Bachelor- und Masterstudiengängen im Zuge der Bolognareform. Deutlich wird, dass sich erziehungswissenschaftliche Hauptfachstudiengänge als Scharnier zwischen Disziplin und Profession in ihren Verhältnisbestimmungen von Allgemeinem und Speziellem wie auch in ihren Handlungsfeldbezügen deutlich pluralisiert haben und weiterhin dynamisch sind. Darin kommen sowohl teildisziplinäre Grenzziehungsprozesse als auch eine Disziplin zum Ausdruck, für die Pluralität ein konstitutives Element ist, um der Kontingenz ihres Gegenstands gerecht zu werden.
The Schur–Potapov Algorithm in the General Matrix Case and Its Application to the Matricial Schur Problem
Authors: Dubovoy Vladimir K. , Fritzsche Bernd , Kirstein Bernd , Mädler Conrad , Müller Karsten
Published: June 2024

This paper is a generalization of the topic handled in Bogner et al. (Oper Theory 1(1):55–95, 2007a, Oper Theory 1(2):235–278, 2007b) where the Schur–Potapov algorithm (SP-algorithm) was handled in the context of non-degenerate $${p\times q}$$

p
×
q

 Schur sequences and non-degenerate $${p\times q}$$

p
×
q

 Schur functions. In particular, the interplay between both types of algorithms was intensively studied there. This was itself a generalization of the classical Schur algorithm (Schur in J Reine Angew Math 148:122–145, 1918) to the non-degenerate matrix case. In treating the matrix case a result due to Potapov (Potapov in Trudy Moskov Mat Obšč 4:125–236, 1955) concerning particular linear fractional transformations of contractive $${p\times q}$$

p
×
q

 matrices was used. For this reason, the notation SP-algorithm was already chosen in Dubovoj et al. (Matricial version of the classical Schur problem, volume 129 of Teubner-Texte zur Mathematik [Teubner Texts in Mathematics], B. G. Teubner Verlagsgesellschaft mbH, Stuttgart, 1992). We are going to introduce both types of SP-algorithms as well for arbitrary $${p\times q}$$

p
×
q

 Schur sequences as for arbitrary $${p\times q}$$

p
×
q

 Schur functions. Again we will intensively discuss the interplay between both types of algorithms. Applying the SP-algorithm, a complete treatment of the matricial Schur problem in the most general case is established. A one-step extension problem for finite $${p\times q}$$

p
×
q

 Schur sequences is considered. Central $${p\times q}$$

p
×
q

 Schur sequences are studied under the view of SP-parameters.
Public perceptions of marine protected areas: an Italian study
Authors: Intonti Gaia Sole , Lucrezi Serena , Markantonatou Vasiliki , Cerrano Carlo
Published: June 2024

Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) have been gaining increasing importance in modern conditions, characterised by environmental challenges like climate change, loss of biodiversity, pollution and overexploitation of marine resources. MPAs represent an effective tool for marine conservation and the current policies aim to increase their number to protect 30% of our ocean by 2030. To obtain the achievements derived from MPAs, public engagement is paramount and requires an understanding of people’s perceptions of MPAs. Italy has a relevant coastline affected by extreme anthropic pressures linked to tourism, fisheries and other industries, with several MPAs established over the years to mitigate these pressures. Through an online questionnaire distributed in 2014 and 2021 via snowball sampling, this study investigated public perceptions of MPAs in Italy. Despite the sampling limitations, the results showed a temporal change in environmental awareness and pro-environmental behaviours. This finding could be linked to the greater availability and accessibility of information related to the marine environment, joined with the growing urgency to face environmental challenges that involve different sectors of the population. Despite the improvements reached in public education, efforts should still be undertaken to engage citizens, especially in inland areas, to disseminate the impact of daily actions on the marine environment and to increase the acceptability of and efforts in MPAs’ implementation and effective management.
Uncovering the linkage among tourism diversification, economic development, energy consumption, population density, technology, and carbon emissions: empirical evidence from New Zealand
Authors: Erdogan Sinan , Pata Ugur Korkut , Okumus Ilyas , Solarin Sakiru Adebola
Published: June 2024

Although the influence of tourism on the environment is a frequently studied topic, examining the impact of tourism diversification on carbon emissions is a recent area of research. In this context, this study examines the impacts of tourism diversification, income, energy consumption, research and development expenditures, and population density on carbon emissions in New Zealand for the period 1981–2020 using the Autoregressive Distributed Lag approach. The results illustrate that income, lower tourism diversification, and energy consumption increase carbon emissions, while an upsurge in population density and research and development expenditures minimizes environmental degradation. According to the findings, New Zealand’s intensification of tourism in certain areas increases the environmental damage. It is therefore recommended that the New Zealand government promote tourism diversification and research and development expenditures to achieve environmental sustainability goals.
Endogenous innate sensor NLRP3 is a key component in peritoneal macrophage dynamics required for cestode establishment
Authors: Flores-Sotelo Irán , Juárez Natalia , González Marisol I. , Chávez Auraamellaly , Vannan Danielle T. , Eksteen Bertus , Terrazas Luis I. , Reyes José L.
Published: June 2024

The NLRP3 receptor can assemble inflammasome platforms to trigger inflammatory responses; however, accumulating evidence suggests that it can also display anti-inflammatory properties. Here, we explored the role of nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain pyrin-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) in Taenia crassiceps experimental infection, which requires immune polarization into a Th2-type profile and peritoneal influx of suppressive macrophages for successful colonization. NLRP3 deficient mice (NLRP3−/−) were highly resistant against T. crassiceps, relative to wild-type (WT) mice. Resistance in NLRP3−/− mice was associated with a diminished IL-4 output, high levels of IL-15, growth factor for both innate and adaptive lymphocytes, and a dramatic decrease in peritoneum-infiltrating suppressive macrophages. Also, a transcriptional analysis on bone marrow-derived macrophages exposed to Taenia-secreted antigens and IL-4 revealed that NLRP3−/− macrophages express reduced transcripts of relm-α and PD-1 ligands, markers of alternative activation and suppressive ability, respectively. Finally, we found that the resistance displayed by NLRP3−/− mice is transferred through intestinal microbiota exchange, since WT mice co-housed with NLRP3−/− mice were significantly more resistant than WT animals preserving their native microbiota. Altogether, these data demonstrate that NLRP3 is a component of innate immunity required for T. crassiceps to establish, most likely contributing to macrophage recruitment, and controlling lymphocyte-stimulating cytokines such as IL-15.
Fachlichkeit und Professionalisierung des Personals in der Kinder- und Jugendhilfe
Authors: Birkel-Barmsen Janine , Meiner-Teubner Christiane
Published: June 2024

Ergebnisse der Kinder- und Jugendhilfestatistik zeigen, dass das Qualifikationsgefüge in der Kinder- und Jugendhilfe trotz enormem Personalzuwachs in den vergangenen 15 Jahren stabil geblieben ist. Auf der Grundlage jüngster Vorausberechnungen ist bereits heute absehbar, dass in Westdeutschland auch im kommenden Jahrzehnt ein hoher Fachkräftemangel bestehen wird. Bereits seit etwa zehn Jahren kommt es immer wieder zu Reformen in den Ausbildungen, um mehr Interessierte für die Ausbildung zu gewinnen und zuletzt reagierte die Mehrzahl der Länder mit Öffnungen der Fachkräftekataloge im Bereich der Frühen Bildung, um zusätzliches Personal zu gewinnen. Diese Maßnahmen tragen zwar einerseits zur Reduzierung des Fachkräftemangels bei, bergen aber auch verschiedene Gefahren und Risiken.
Measuring identification with narrative characters: the development and validation of a new scale
Authors: Huang Kate Y. , Fung Helene H.
Published: June 2024

During narrative reception, one psychological response audiences may experience toward story characters is identification, which involves a sense of merging between self and character. Given the lack of formally validated measures of this construct in the literature, the current paper introduces a new 12-item scale for measuring identification. Scale development and validation took place over three sequential studies. Exploratory factor analysis in Study 1 (N = 224) indicated four related factors: merging, perspective-taking, understanding, and emotional involvement. In Study 2 (N = 191), confirmatory factor analysis suggested that a second-order four-factor model provided a good fit to the data and a more parsimonious explanation of the scale’s factor structure compared to a first-order model. In addition, the overall scale and subscales demonstrated adequate internal consistency and correlated in the expected directions with theoretically relevant and irrelevant constructs. Using a more demographically diverse sample, Study 3 (N = 290) established measurement invariance of the scale across two narratives in terms of configural, metric, and partial scalar invariance, and provided further support for its factor structure, reliability, and validity.
Probing the Efficiency of PPMG-Based Composite Electrolytes for Applications of Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell
Authors: Ahmed Shakeel , Altaf Faizah , Khan Safyan Akram , Manzoor Sumaira , Ahmad Aziz , Mansha Muhammad , Ali Shahid , Ata-ur-Rehman  , Jacob Karl
Published: June 2024

PPMG-based composite electrolytes were fabricated via the solution method using the polyvinyl alcohol and polyvinylpyrrolidone blend reinforced with various contents of sulfonated inorganic filler. Sulfuric acid was employed as the sulfonating agent to functionalize the external surface of the inorganic filler, i.e., graphene oxide. The proton conductivities of the newly prepared proton exchange membranes (PEMs) were increased by increasing the temperature and content of sulfonated graphene oxide (SGO), i.e., ranging from 0.025 S/cm to 0.060 S/cm. The induction of the optimum level of SGO is determined to be an excellent route to enhance ionic conductivity. The single-cell performance test was conducted by sandwiching the newly prepared PEMs between an anode (0.2 mg/cm2 Pt/Ru) and a cathode (0.2 mg/cm2 Pt) to prepare membrane electrode assemblies, followed by hot pressing under a pressure of approximately 100 kg/cm2 at 60 °C for 5–10 min. The highest power densities achieved with PPMG PEMs were 14.9 and 35.60 mW/cm2 at 25 °C and 70 °C, respectively, at ambient pressure with 100% relative humidity. Results showed that the newly prepared PEMs exhibit good electrochemical performance. The results indicated that the prepared composite membrane with 6 wt% filler can be used as an alternative membrane for applications of high-performance proton exchange membrane fuel cell.
Antibody–drug conjugates (ADCs) in lung cancer treatment
Authors: Wass Romana E. , Lang David , Horner Andreas , Lamprecht Bernd
Published: June 2024

ADCs will likely become another important treatment strategy in advanced, pretreated lung cancer where current treatment options are limited. Both onocogene-directed or biomarker relateted (e.g. EGFR, HER2, MET) and  ADCs where no biomarker selection is required (e.g. TROP2, HER3) have either already demonstrated efficacy or under further investigation in NSCLC. Improving the outcomes of patients with metastatic lung cancer is important, thus continued research is necessary to improve understanding of the clinical activity, safety, and optimal sequencing of ADCs in lung cancer treatment.
A Study on Linear Prabhakar Fractional Systems with Variable Coefficients
Authors: Aydin Mustafa , Mahmudov N. I.
Published: June 2024

The focus of this paper is on addressing the initial value problem related to linear systems of fractional differential equations characterized by variable coefficients, incorporating Prabhakar fractional derivatives of Riemann–Liouville and Caputo types. Utilizing the generalized Peano–Baker series technique, the state-transition matrix is acquired. The paper presents closed form solutions for both homogeneous and inhomogeneous cases, substantiated by illustrative examples.
Does giving students feedback on their concept maps through an on-screen avatar or a humanoid robot make a difference?
Authors: Sisman Burak , Steinrücke Johannes , de Jong Ton
Published: June 2024

Active or engaged learning is often seen as a way to improve students’ performance concerning STEM topics. When following such a form of self-directed learning, students often need to receive feedback on their progress. Giving real-time feedback on an individual basis is usually beyond the teacher’s capacity; in digital learning environments, this opens the door for exploring automated feedback. In the current study, a posttest only design was used to investigate the effect of providing students with different forms of automated feedback while they were creating a concept map about photosynthesis in an online inquiry learning environment. Participants were high school students (N = 138), divided over two experimental groups. In one group, feedback was given by a humanoid robot and in the other group via an avatar. The effects of the different feedback forms were compared for the two groups in terms of the frequency with which students consulted the feedback, concept map quality, and students’ attitudes. Results showed that the robot group consulted feedback more often than the avatar group. Moreover, the robot group had higher scores on a scale measuring enjoyment than the avatar group. Both of these differences were statistically significant. However, the average quality of the concept maps created by both groups was similar.
Isolation and Identification of Postharvest Rot Pathogens in Citrus × tangelo and Their Potential Inhibition with Acidic Electrolyzed Water
Authors: Ji Ying , Wang Jieqiong , Liu Ye , Liu Shaoyan , Jiang Xuanjing , Huang Huaming
Published: June 2024

This study focused on the identification of rot-causing fungi in Citrus × tangelo (tangelo) with a particular emphasis on investigating the inhibitory effects of acidic electrolyzed water on the identified pathogens. The dominant strains responsible for postharvest decay were isolated from infected tangelo fruits and characterized through morphological observation, molecular identification, and pathogenicity detection. Two strains were isolated from postharvest diseased tangelo fruits, cultured and morphologically characterized, and had their gene fragments amplified using primers ITS1 and ITS4. The results revealed the rDNA-ITS sequence of two dominant pathogens were 100% homologous with those of Penicillium citrinum and Aspergillus sydowii. These isolated fungi were confirmed to induce tangelo disease, and subsequent re-isolation validated their consistency with the inoculum. Antifungal tests demonstrated that acidic electrolyzed water (AEW) exhibited a potent inhibitory effect on P. citrinum and A. sydowii, with EC50 values of 85.4 μg/mL and 60.12 μg/mL, respectively. The inhibition zones of 150 μg/mL AEW to 2 kinds of pathogenic fungi were over 75 mm in diameter. Furthermore, treatment with AEW resulted in morphological changes such as bending and shrinking of the fungal hyphae surface. In addition, extracellular pH, conductivity, and absorbance at 260 nm of the fungi hypha significantly increased post-treatment with AEW. Pathogenic morphology and IST sequencing analysis confirmed P. citrinum and A. sydowii as the primary pathogenic fungi, with their growth effectively inhibited by AEW.
Dynamic Deformation Behavior of the Electron Beam Melted Ti-6Al-4V Alloy
Authors: Hafizoglu Hakan , Memu Firat , Hamat Burcu Arslan , Konokman Huseyin Emrah , Durlu Nuri
Published: June 2024

In this study, dynamic deformation behavior of electron beam melted Ti-6Al-4V alloy and effect of initial defects on deformation process of the alloy were investigated with high strain rate experimental and numerical studies. Dynamic compression tests at the strain rates of 350, 850, 1250, 1750, 1950, and 2500/s at room temperature and at higher temperatures of 150 and 240 °C were performed using a split-Hopkinson pressure bar. Compression simulations in three dimensions (3D) with LS-Dyna software were conducted using the determined Johnson–Cook parameters of the Ti-6Al-4V alloy specimens, to assess the strain, temperature distribution during deformation. In addition, simulation studies with initial defects in the model were performed to investigate the effect of these defects on strain formation during compression. The experimental results showed that strain rates over 1250/s caused failure at 45° to the loading direction. Adiabatic shear bands were observed for the specimens compressed at the strain rates of 1250/s and higher. As strain rate increased from 1250 to 2500/s, the type of adiabatic shear band altered from deformed to transformed type. The simulation results showed that initial defects in the specimen led to formation of higher plastic strain in the direction of 45° around initial defects. This high strain might be the cause of formation of adiabatic shear band. The simulation results also indicated that void morphology could affect strain distribution in the specimen.
Reliability and Validity Analysis of Correlations on Strength and Consolidation Parameters for Ankara Clay and Proposal for a New Correlation
Authors: Tuc Ertac , Akbas Sami Oguzhan , Babagiray Gunes
Published: June 2024

This study aims to assess the accuracy and consistency of existing correlations between undrained shear strength (cu) and modulus of volumetric compressibility (mv) with SPT N value, and compression index (Cc) with index parameters for Turkish clays, with a specific focus on Ankara clay using laboratory testing of over 2500 high-quality undisturbed samples from 42 sites. A comparison of correlations for cu using five different statistical variables indicates that no single method stands out as superior in terms of both accuracy and conservatism and that the quality of the tests in the database has a significant impact on the correlation performance. Even the most effective correlation for cu appear insufficient for direct application in geotechnical design processes, given its low consistency characterized by coefficient of variations (COV) ranging between 50% and more than 100%. The widely used mv estimates proposed by Stroud (1974) were found to be notably unconservative when applied to Turkish clays. Consequently, a new trendline, leveraging both SPT N value and Plasticity Index (PI), was introduced to address this discrepancy. Meanwhile, an examination of 283 high-quality undisturbed samples from Ankara Clay revealed existing correlations between initial void ratio (e0) and compression index (Cc) to be conservative, yet consistently reliable. This underscores their suitability for routine or preliminary design applications. Notably, a newly derived correlation was proposed, which demonstrates equal applicability to the well-established Bowles (1979) equation.
A Hierarchical Parametric and Non-Parametric Forecasting Source Models with Uncertainties: 10 Years Ahead Prediction of Sources for Electric Energy Production
Authors: Balikçi Kemal
Published: June 2024

Long-term accurate forecasting of the various sources for the electric energy production is challenging due to unmodelled dynamics and unexpected uncertainties. This paper develops non-parametric source models with higher-order polynomial bases to forecast the 16 sources utilized for the electric energy production. These models are optimized with the modified iterative neural networks and batch least squares, and their prediction performances are compared. In addition, for the first time in the literature, this paper quantifies the unseen uncertainties like the drought years and watery years affecting especially the hydropower and natural gas-based electric energy productions. These uncertainties are incorporated into the parametric imported-local source models whose unknown parameters are optimized with a modified constrained particle swarm optimization algorithm. These models are trained by using the real data for Türkiye, and the results are analysed extensively. Finally, 10 years ahead estimates of the 16 imported-local sources for the energy production have been obtained with the developed models.
Modelling attack and defense games in infrastructure networks with interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy set payoffs
Authors: Dong Yibo , Liu Jin , Ren Jiaqi , Li Zhe , Li Weili
Published: June 2024

Infrastructure networks are critical components of contemporary society, and numerous approaches have been suggested for the selection of strategies to protect these networks. However, for uncertain environments, research on attack and defense game models for infrastructure networks is limited. Therefore, after reviewing the existing approaches, a method based on interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy set (IVIFS) theory is proposed for attack and defense games in critical infrastructure networks. First, we present the process of constructing the game model proposed in this paper, which mainly includes the formulation of the cost model, the strategies, and the method of generating IVIFS payoffs. Next, the Nash equilibria of the game are identified by a pair of nonlinear programming models based on IVIFS theory. Finally, experiments are conducted on a target scale-free network, and an investigation into the variation patterns of the Nash equilibria under different circumstances is also conducted. We provide explanations for these variation patterns by considering payoffs from the perspective of mathematical programming models. Furthermore, we find that compared to the existing attack and defense game model with crisp payoffs, the model proposed in this paper leads to superior Nash equilibria. Our work is a preliminary attempt to analyse attack and defense games for infrastructure networks based on IVIFS theory, providing a method for assessing payoffs in uncertain environments for the attacker and defender. This topic deserves further study.
Intelligent optimization of steam gasification catalysts for palm oil waste using support vector machine and adaptive transition marine predator algorithm
Authors: Guo Xin , Bouteraa Yassine , Khishe Mohammad , Li Cen , Martín Diego
Published: June 2024

The present study investigates the optimization of the steam gasification process for the conversion of palm oil waste into environmentally friendly energy, utilizing the catalytic properties of calcium oxide and coal bottom ash. The objective of our research is to investigate the enhancement of the conversion process by employing a machine-learning approach. Specifically, we utilize a support vector machine (SVM) to model and evaluate the impact of different operational parameters on the resulting gas mixture. One notable feature of this study involves the incorporation of an adaptive marine predator algorithm (AMPA) into the SVM framework, aiming to enhance the predicted precision and efficiency of the model. The primary focus of this study revolves around the development of an intelligent optimization framework that surpasses conventional machine learning techniques, hence providing a more dynamic and efficient strategy for process improvement. The SVM model’s performance, as assessed against experimental benchmarks, exhibits a notable degree of predictive accuracy and substantial concurrence with observed data. This increase in performance indicates that our methodology has the potential to make a significant contribution to the enhancement of renewable catalysts in gasification processes. The findings of this study could potentially have significant ramifications for the advancement of renewable energy production and the creation of intelligent systems in complicated industrial applications.
Approaching Ultimate Synthesis Reaction Rate of Ni-Rich Layered Cathodes for Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Liu Zhedong , Zhang Jingchao , Luo Jiawei , Guo Zhaoxin , Jiang Haoran , Li Zekun , Liu Yuhang , Song Zijing , Liu Rui , Liu Wei-Di , Hu Wenbin , Chen Yanan
Published: June 2024

Nickel-rich layered oxide LiNixCoyMnzO2 (NCM, x + y + z = 1) is the most promising cathode material for high-energy lithium-ion batteries. However, conventional synthesis methods are limited by the slow heating rate, sluggish reaction dynamics, high energy consumption, and long reaction time. To overcome these challenges, we first employed a high-temperature shock (HTS) strategy for fast synthesis of the NCM, and the approaching ultimate reaction rate of solid phase transition is deeply investigated for the first time. In the HTS process, ultrafast average reaction rate of phase transition from Ni0.6Co0.2Mn0.2(OH)2 to Li- containing oxides is 66.7 (% s−1), that is, taking only 1.5 s. An ultrahigh heating rate leads to fast reaction kinetics, which induces the rapid phase transition of NCM cathodes. The HTS-synthesized nickel-rich layered oxides perform good cycling performances (94% for NCM523, 94% for NCM622, and 80% for NCM811 after 200 cycles at 4.3 V). These findings might also assist to pave the way for preparing effectively Ni-rich layered oxides for lithium-ion batteries.
Soil type and temperature determine soil respiration seasonal dynamics in dairy grassland
Authors: Liu Yulin , Zhang Jingjing , Bader Martin Karl-Friedrich , Leuzinger Sebastian
Published: June 2024

Soil respiration rates (Rs) were measured in New Zealand dairy grassland.

Both season and soil type significantly affected Rs.

Soil temperature and soil type dominated overall Rs.

Soil respiration (Rs), the CO2 release from root respiration and microbial metabolism, affects global soil carbon storage and cycling. Only few studies have looked at Rs in the southern hemisphere, especially regarding the interaction between soil type and environmental factors on Rs in dairy grassland. We investigated the relationship between Rs and soil temperature (Ts), soil water content (SWC), soil type, and other environmental factors based on summer and winter measurements at four sites in New Zealand. Across sites, soil respiration rates ranged from 0.29 to 14.58 with a mean of 5.38 ± 0.13 (mean ± standard error) µmol CO2 m−2 s−1. Mean summer Rs was 86.5% higher than mean winter Rs, largely driven by organic/gley and pumice soils while ultic soils showed very little seasonal temperature sensitivity. Overall mean Rs in organic/gley soils was 108.0% higher than that in ultic soils. The high Rs rate observed in organic/gley was likely due to high soil organic matter content, while low Rs in ultic and pallic soils resulted from high clay content and low hydraulic conductance. Soil temperature drove overall Rs. Our findings indicate that soil type and soil temperature together best explain Rs. This implies that a mere classification of land use type may be insufficient for global C models and should be supplemented with soil type information, at least locally.
Examination of wnt signaling mediated melanin transport and shell color formation in Pacific oyster (Crassostrea gigas)
Authors: Min Yue , Li Qi , Yu Hong , Du Shaojun
Published: June 2024

Mollusca exhibit remarkable diversity in shell coloration, attributed to the presence of melanin, a widely distributed pigment with various essential roles, such as mechanical strengthening, antioxidation and thermoregulation. However, the regulatory network governing melanogenesis and melanin transport in molluscs remains poorly understood. In this study, we conducted a systematic analysis of melanin distribution and transport in the Pacific oyster, utilizing light microscopy and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. In addition, we characterized CgWnt1 and CgWnt2b-a in Crassostrea gigas, and analyzed Wnt signaling in melanocyte formation. Expression analysis revealed that these genes were predominantly expressed in the mantle of black-shelled individuals, particularly in the outer fold of the mantle. Furthermore, we employed RNA interference and inhibitors to specifically inhibit Wnt signaling in both in vivo and in vitro. The results revealed impaired melanogenesis and diminished tyrosinase activity upon Wnt signaling inhibition. These findings suggest the crucial role of Wnt ligands and downstream factors in melanogenesis. In summary, our study provides valuable insights into the regulatory mechanism of shell pigmentation in C. gigas. By demonstrating the promotion of melanogenesis through Wnt signaling modulation, we contribute to a better understanding of the complex processes underlying molluscan melanin production and shell coloration.
Star Generative Adversarial VGG Network-Based Sample Augmentation for Insulator Defect Detection
Authors: Zhang Linghao , Wang Luqing , Yan Zhijie , Jia Zhentang , Wang Hongjun , Tang Xinyu
Published: June 2024

Deep learning-based automated detection of insulator defects in electric power systems is a critical technological challenge, pivotal for ensuring reliability and efficiency in the global energy infrastructure. However, the effectiveness of the deep learning model is severely compromised by the scarcity of defective insulator samples. To tackle this problem, the present study proposes a style transfer approach utilizing an improved Star Generative Adversarial Network 2 (StarGAN2) model to generate artificial samples of faulty insulators, which adeptly synthesizes artificial faulty insulator samples on a one-to-many basis, markedly diminishing the necessity for extensive empirical data collection. Through the integration of identity loss, the proposed model ensures the fidelity of content and the preservation of critical defect semantics. Additionally, the proposed model incorporates a pre-trained Visual Geometry Group (VGG) network and perceptual loss, thus improving the quality of generated samples without additional artificial labeling. Finally, various experiments are conducted to assess the quality and authenticity of the generated samples and their impact on the detection model. The results demonstrate that StarGAN2 could generate realistic insulator defect samples and improve the performance of defect detection models.
Workplace culture of health and employee physical activity: the moderating effects of gender and depression
Authors: Marenus Michele W. , Marzec Mary , Kilbourne Amy , Colabianchi Natalie , Chen Weiyun
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Promoting physical activity (PA) at work effectively decreases the risk of chronic disease and increases productivity. Despite the well-established benefits of PA, only 24% of adults meet the PA Guidelines for Americans. Advancing a culture of health (COH) may improve employees’ physical activity levels. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of workplace culture of health, gender, and depression on employee physical activity.

Methods

Employees (n = 12,907) across 14 companies voluntarily completed the Workplace Culture of Health (COH) Scale, the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-2), and questions on PA engagement. A logistic regression was performed to determine the effects of workplace COH, gender, and depression risk on the likelihood of engaging in 150 min of moderate to vigorous PA and in strength training 2 × per week.

Results

Workplace COH scores were associated with increased odds of PA engagement (OR = 1.058, p < 0.001). Further, gender and depression risk moderated the relationship between workplace COH and PA engagement (OR = 0.80, p = 0.026). For employees at risk for depression, an increase in COH scores was associated with higher PA for men, but not women. For employees not at risk for depression, an increase in COH scores was associated with higher PA for males and females.

Conclusion

Establishing a health-supportive workplace culture may increase PA, which is essential to improving population health. The differential findings by gender and depression risk illustrate the complexity of PA engagement.
Perspective: revisiting surface roughness in electrochemical machining and the paradoxes
Authors: Pan Shuaihang , Zhao Bo , Balaji A. K. , Qu Yongzhi , Yin Yingyue
Published: June 2024

Electrochemical machining (ECM) represents a prominent electrochemistry-driven technique for surface flattening, post-processing, and (ultra-)precision machining, attracting considerable research interests recently. The method exhibits advantages in the machining of hard-to-machine nickel (Ni) superalloys, particularly those created via additive manufacturing approaches such as laser powder bed fusion (LPBF), in which enhanced microstructural features and mechanical properties are achieved with compromised surface quality. This study explores the intricate relationship between Ni alloy-specific microstructures, such as carbide precipitates, and the principles of electrochemistry integral to ECM. It further emphasizes the emerging requirement to re-examine the surface quality outcomes of ECM. We present a concise overview of the inherent paradoxes in ECM, encompassing the prediction of surface roughness range, the quantification of charge transfer coefficients, the efficiency of material removal, and the temporal dependence of the ECM process. These paradoxes necessitate systematic experimental and theoretical research to advance our understanding, and we wish to welcome, stimulate, and urge more raised awareness and attention to this matter about ECM surface quality control and prediction.