bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An intelligent biosensing platform using phase space reconstruction‐assisted convolutional neural network for drug‐induced cardiotoxicity assessment
Authors: Yang Wenjian , Guo Xinyu , Wu Ruochen , Wu Yue , Fan Minzhi , Lv Bihu , Zhang Diming , Zhu Zhijing
Published: June 2024

Drug‐induced cardiotoxicity often leads to patient deaths and drug recalls. Interdigitated electrode (IDE)‐based cellular impedance detection instrument has been integrated with intelligent algorithms to screen cardiotoxicity based on cardiomyocytes. These intelligent biosensing systems generally employ traditional machine learning methods to assess drug‐induced cardiotoxicity by analyzing cardiomyocytes mechanical beating signals. However, modern deep learning methods with robustness and flexibility have not been integrated in IDE‐based platform to screen cardiotoxicity. Here, for the first time, we implemented deep convolutional neural network (CNN) to analyze cardiomyocytes mechanical beating signals for cardiotoxicity assessment. This method can eliminate the feature engineering procedures, such as manual design and extraction of signal features required by traditional machine learning methods. To facilitate two‐dimensional (2‐D) CNN analysis, we utilized phase space reconstruction to convert one‐dimensional beating signals into 2‐D image representations as well as take into account nonlinear dynamic information. The phase space reconstruction‐assisted convolutional neural network (PSRCNN) is capable of accurately categorizing drug‐induced cardiotoxicities and predicting cardiotoxicity levels. It obtains accuracies ranging from 0.82 to 0.99 when recognizing the cardiotoxicity of newly developed drugs, which are represented by drugs that are not used during model training. Furthermore, we explore in depth to compare the performance of CNN with other traditional machine learning methods. The PSRCNN method can achieve higher accuracies when compared to other methods. The PSRCNN‐based biosensing platform is highly potential in improving the efficiency and accuracy of high‐throughput screening of newly developed drugs for cardiotoxicity during drug discovery.
Health‐related quality of life is a predictor of readmission following emergency laparotomy
Authors: í Soylu Lív , Hansen Jannick Brander , Kvist Madeline , Burcharth Jakob , Kokotovic Dunja
Published: June 2024

Background

Health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) is a multidimensional concept used to examine the impact of patient‐perceived health status on quality of life. Patients' perception of illness affects outcomes in both medical and elective surgical patients; however, not much is known about how HRQoL effects outcomes in the emergency surgical setting. This study aimed to examine if patient‐reported HRQoL was a predictor of unplanned readmission after emergency laparotomy.

Methods

This study included 215 patients who underwent emergency laparotomy at the Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev, between August 1, 2021, and July 31, 2022. Patient‐reported HRQoL was assessed with the EuroQol group EQ5D index (EQ5D5L descriptive system and EQ‐VAS). The population was followed from 0 to 180 days after discharge, and readmissions and days alive and out of hospital were registered. A Cox proportional hazard model was used to examine HRQoL and the risk of readmission within 30 and 180 days.

Results

Within 30 days, 28.4% of patients were readmitted; within 180 days, the number accumulated to 45.1%. Low self‐evaluated HRQoL predicted 180‐day readmission and was significantly associated with fewer days out of hospital within both 90 and 180 days. Low HRQoL and discharge with rehabilitation were independent risk factors for short‐ (30‐day) and long‐term (180‐day) emergency readmission.

Conclusion

Patient‐perceived quality of life is an independent predictor of 180‐day readmission, and the number of days out of hospital was correlated to self‐reported HRQoL.
Using ML-Based Models in Simulation of CPPSs: A Case Study of Smart Meter Production
Authors: Hranisavljevic Nemanja , Westermann Tom , Kroke Philip , Waschkies Carsten
Published: June 2024

Simulation models have proven successful in various CPPS tasks such as optimization, diagnosis or reconfiguration. However, creating these models is a costly process. This paper describes an approach which uses: 1) recorded data to automatically learn timed automata models of system components; and 2) manual logic based on prior knowledge that extends and enables the utilization of the learned models for simulation. Experiments in a smart meter production facility show: 1) a successful detection of a suboptimal configuration; 2) the identification of causes of a decrease in productivity; and 3) a correct assessment of possible actions after a disturbance has occurred.
Hyperon semileptonic decays in QCD sum rules
Authors: Zhang Sheng-Qi , Zhang Xuan-Heng , Qiao Cong-Feng
Published: June 2024

Abstract

We investigate the hyperon semileptonic decays within the framework of QCD sum rules. The flavor SU(3) symmetry breaking effects are analyzed via the relevant form factors and corresponding branching fractions. Employing the z-series parameterization to capture the q2 dependence of form factors, we calculate the hyperon semileptonic decay rates and confront them with the recent experimental measurements. Moreover, we calculate as well the non-standard tensor form factors, which involve certain new physics beyond the standard model.
Tropological sigma models
Authors: Albrychiewicz Emil , Ellers Kai-Isaak , Valiente Andrés Franco , Hořava Petr
Published: June 2024

Abstract

With the use of mathematical techniques of tropical geometry, it was shown by Mikhalkin some twenty years ago that certain Gromov-Witten invariants associated with topological quantum field theories of pseudoholomorphic maps can be computed by going to the tropical limit of the geometries in question. Here we examine this phenomenon from the physics perspective of topological quantum field theory in the path integral representation, beginning with the case of the topological sigma model before coupling it to topological gravity. We identify the tropicalization of the localization equations, investigate its geometry and symmetries, and study the theory and its observables using the standard cohomological BRST methods. We find that the worldsheet theory exhibits a nonrelativistic structure, similar to theories of the Lifshitz type. Its path-integral formulation does not require a worldsheet complex structure; instead, it is based on a worldsheet foliation structure.
How does pharmacological and toxicological knowledge evolve? A case study on hydrogen cyanide in German pharmacology and toxicology textbooks from 1878 to 2020
Authors: Ludwig Laureen , Seifert Roland
Published: June 2024

Little is known about how pharmacological and toxicological knowledge evolves. The aim of this study was to investigate the changes in the presentation of the poison hydrogen cyanide in sixteen German-language pharmacology and toxicology textbooks from 1878 to 2020. The categories of structure, molecular mechanism of action, occurrence, effects, resorption, areas of application, lethal dose, acute symptoms of intoxication, treatment of hydrogen cyanide poisoning, and recommended therapeutic preparations were evaluated. The knowledge on the structure, lethal dosage, and occurrence of hydrogen cyanide has remained constant. In contrast, knowledge on molecular mechanism of action and recommended preparations of the poison has changed dramatically. Until 1944, the binding of hydrogen cyanide to hemoglobin was considered the mechanism of action, whereas from 1951 onwards, the interaction of hydrogen cyanide with the Fe3+ of cytochrome oxidase was described. The number of preparations containing hydrogen cyanide decreased into obsolescence until 1951. The areas of application of hydrogen cyanide also show a change, as from 1919 onwards, mainly industrial areas of application of the poison are described instead of medical ones, and from 1951 onwards, criminalistic areas of application are also mentioned. Thus, pharmacological and toxicological knowledge develops non-linearly, molecular mechanism and uses being the most dynamic areas, whereas the knowledge about hydrogen cyanide’s chemical structure, lethal dose, and occurrence remained constant. Older pharmacology and toxicology textbooks were better than newer ones at discussing changes in scientific concepts. Pharmacology and toxicology textbooks also mostly failed to discuss the misuse of hydrogen cyanide (Zyklon B) during the Nazi regime, missing an important opportunity to showcase the ethical responsibility of pharmacology and toxicology. Thus, future pharmacology and toxicology textbooks should improve on discussing the development of pharmacological and toxicological concepts and the ethical responsibility of the discipline.
Challenges in Chemical Vapour Deposition of Graphene on Metallurgical Alloys Exemplified for NiTi Shape Memory Alloys
Authors: Fickl Bernhard , Heinzle Samuel , Gstöttenmayr Stephanie , Emri Dorian , Blazevic Filip , Artner Werner , Dipolt Christian , Eder Dominik , Bayer Bernhard C.
Published: June 2024

Atomically-thin two-dimensional (2D) materials like graphene have been suggested as ultimately thin corrosion barriers and functional coatings for modern metallurgical alloys. The challenges of chemical vapour deposition (CVD) of such 2D materials, particularly graphene, on modern metallurgical alloys are discussed and reviewed here, focusing on the key problems with the metallurgical alloys’ often limited catalytic activity towards 2D materials growth and the key need to preserve the metallurgical alloys’ bulk properties during the high temperature 2D materials CVD processes. Using graphene CVD on NiTi (Nitinol) shape memory alloys as a case study, we illustrate the constraints arising from low catalytic activity and tendency to form oxides due the Ti in the NiTi alloy in terms of graphene growth results. We show that, by using a scalable low-temperature CVD process at 650 to 750 °C, we can deposit fully covering carbon films on the NiTi, albeit at limited structural quality. Notably, we also demonstrate that our CVD process does not degrade the bulk microstructure of the NiTi during carbon deposition and, importantly, leaves the crystallographic shape memory effect evolution intact. This underscores the potential of CVD for depositing graphene films on NiTi alloys while emphasizing the necessity for further exploration of CVD conditions to achieve high-quality graphene deposits akin to those on prior widely investigated dedicated (often sacrificial) high-purity metal substrates such as Ni.
With me it is exactly the same: second stories and their argumentative function in child talk
Authors: Wala Joanna , Hannken-Illjes Kati , Bose Ines , Kurtenbach Stephanie
Published: June 2024

Conversation circles in kindergartens can foster discursive abilities such as argumentation. This paper analyzes argumentation in conversation circles in a kindergarten with respect to the function of narrative argumentation. We focus on second stories as a specific narrative form that is characterized by relating in content and form to a before told narrative thereby displaying similarity and alignment. In this paper, we will analyze videographed conversation circles in a kindergarten. Our methodological approach is interactional and qualitative, informed by conversation analysis and narrative analysis. We will argue that preschool children use second stories for argumentative purposes in cooperative argumentative exchanges and through them produce interactional alignment.
Concordance of HIV Prevention Advocacy Reports and its Associations with HIV Protective Behaviors
Authors: Malika Nipher , Green Harold D. , Bogart Laura M. , Matovu Joseph K.B. , Klein David J. , Okoboi Steven , Gwokyalya Violet , Ninsiima Susan , Wagner Glenn J.
Published: June 2024

Peer advocacy can promote HIV protective behaviors, but little is known about the concordance on prevention advocacy(PA) reports between people living with HIV(PLWH) and their social network members. We examined prevalence and correlates of such concordance, and its association with the targeted HIV protective behavior of the social network member. Data were analyzed from 193 PLWH(index participants) and their 599 social network members(alters). Kappa statistics measured concordance between index and alter reports of PA in the past 3 months. Logistic and multinomial regressions evaluated the relationship between advocacy concordance and alter condom use and HIV testing behavior and correlates of PA concordance. Advocacy concordance was observed in 0.3% of index-alter dyads for PrEP discussion, 9% for condom use, 18% for HIV testing, 26% for care engagement, and 49% for antiretroviral use discussions. Fewer indexes reported condom use(23.5% vs. 28.1%;$${ \chi }^{2}$$=3.7, p=0.05) and HIV testing(30.5% vs. 50.5%; $${\chi }^{2}$$=25.3, p<0.001) PA occurring. Condom advocacy concordance was higher if the index and alter were romantic partners(OR=3.50; p=0.02), and lower if the index was 10 years younger than the alter(OR=0.23; p = 0.02). Alters had higher odds of using condoms with their main partner when both reported condom advocacy compared to dyads where neither reported advocacy(OR=3.90; p<0.001) and compared to dyads where only the index reported such advocacy(OR = 3.71; p=0.01). Age difference and relationship status impact advocacy agreement, and concordant perceptions of advocacy are linked to increased HIV protective behaviors. Alters’ perceptions may be crucial for behavior change, informing strategies for improving advocacy.
Robust and privacy-preserving collaborative training: a comprehensive survey
Authors: Yang Fei , Zhang Xu , Guo Shangwei , Chen Daiyuan , Gan Yan , Xiang Tao , Liu Yang
Published: June 2024

Increasing numbers of artificial intelligence systems are employing collaborative machine learning techniques, such as federated learning, to build a shared powerful deep model among participants, while keeping their training data locally. However, concerns about integrity and privacy in such systems have significantly hindered the use of collaborative learning systems. Therefore, numerous efforts have been presented to preserve the model’s integrity and reduce the privacy leakage of training data throughout the training phase of various collaborative learning systems. This survey seeks to provide a systematic and comprehensive evaluation of security and privacy studies in collaborative training, in contrast to prior surveys that only focus on one single collaborative learning system. Our survey begins with an overview of collaborative learning systems from various perspectives. Then, we systematically summarize the integrity and privacy risks of collaborative learning systems. In particular, we describe state-of-the-art integrity attacks (e.g., Byzantine, backdoor, and adversarial attacks) and privacy attacks (e.g., membership, property, and sample inference attacks), as well as the associated countermeasures. We additionally provide an analysis of open problems to motivate possible future studies.
Environmental Racism and Climate (In)Justice in the Anthropocene: Addressing the Silences and Erasures in Management and Organization Studies
Authors: Ergene Seray , Banerjee Subhabrata Bobby , Ergene Erim
Published: June 2024

In this paper, we are situated in postcolonial, decolonial, and feminist epistemologies to study environmental racism in the Anthropocene—a new geological epoch where human activity has changed the functioning of the earth. Drawing from critiques of the Anthropocene, the concept of racial capitalism, as well as environmental justice and racism scholarship, we show how proposed solutions to the climate crisis overlook and may even exacerbate racial injustices faced by communities of color. We contend that a climate justice agenda that is grounded on racial justice is necessary for our scholarship to develop a racially just management and organization studies (MOS). To accomplish this agenda, we propose three shifts: from studying elite institutions to researching grassroots organizations concerned with climate and racial justice, from uncritical endorsement of global technologies to studying local adaptation by communities of color, and from offering decontextualized climate solutions to unraveling racial histories that can help us address racial and climate injustices. We discuss the implications of these shifts for management research and education and argue that MOS cannot afford to ignore climate justice and racial justice—they are both inextricably linked, and one cannot be achieved without the other.
Socially Engaged Art Approaches to CSCW with Young People in Rurban Communities
Authors: Murray Maria , Slingerland Geertje , Pantidi Nadia , McCarthy John
Published: June 2024

The rapidly expanding rural community (often called rurban) is a new place for CSCW with unique sociogeographic characteristics that give rise to the need for adapted participatory practices. Socially Engaged Art (SEA) offers pluralistic and critical approaches to participative rurban CSCW to meet this need. This paper provides a case study of SEA-informed CSCW in an Irish rurban community. An online digital art summer school was delivered to young residents of Northrock using freely available digital collaboration and creation tools. Young people in rurban communities are navigating personal, social and political issues in a complex and evolving environment. In this summer school, SEA was applied to explore these issues through the creation and sharing of digital art on participant experiences and hopes for the future. The summer school hoped to promote critical thinking, confrontational dialogue and greater mutual understanding. We found that rapid creation and critique of a range of digital art expressions of social issues accessed nuanced and contradictory experiences, bringing them into dialogue with each other while supporting mutual understanding and new perspectives on rurban place and identity as they evolve. We propose integrating SEA into CSCW with young people in liminal and transitional communities such as the rurban to explore complex lived experiences in pursuit of more equitable futures and sustainable community expansion. We also draw attention to the usefulness of readily available digital and online tools in supporting CSCW in creative workshop situations.
Robust explainer recommendation for time series classification
Authors: Nguyen Thu Trang , Le Nguyen Thach , Ifrim Georgiana
Published: June 2024

Time series classification is a task which deals with temporal sequences, a prevalent data type common in domains such as human activity recognition, sports analytics and general sensing. In this area, interest in explanability has been growing as explanation is key to understand the data and the model better. Recently, a great variety of techniques (e.g., LIME, SHAP, CAM) have been proposed and adapted for time series to provide explanation in the form of saliency maps, where the importance of each data point in the time series is quantified with a numerical value. However, the saliency maps can and often disagree, so it is unclear which one to use. This paper provides a novel framework to quantitatively evaluate and rank explanation methods for time series classification. We show how to robustly evaluate the informativeness of a given explanation method (i.e., relevance for the classification task), and how to compare explanations side-by-side. The goal is to recommend the best explainer for a given time series classification dataset. We propose AMEE, a Model-Agnostic Explanation Evaluation framework, for recommending saliency-based explanations for time series classification. In this approach, data perturbation is added to the input time series guided by each explanation. Our results show that perturbing discriminative parts of the time series leads to significant changes in classification accuracy, which can be used to evaluate each explanation. To be robust to different types of perturbations and different types of classifiers, we aggregate the accuracy loss across perturbations and classifiers. This novel approach allows us to recommend the best explainer among a set of different explainers, including random and oracle explainers. We provide a quantitative and qualitative analysis for synthetic datasets, a variety of time-series datasets, as well as a real-world case study with known expert ground truth.
Systematic Evaluation of Deep Learning Models for Log-based Failure Prediction
Authors: Hadadi Fatemeh , Dawes Joshua H. , Shin Donghwan , Bianculli Domenico , Briand Lionel
Published: June 2024

With the increasing complexity and scope of software systems, their dependability is crucial. The analysis of log data recorded during system execution can enable engineers to automatically predict failures at run time. Several Machine Learning (ML) techniques, including traditional ML and Deep Learning (DL), have been proposed to automate such tasks. However, current empirical studies are limited in terms of covering all main DL types—Recurrent Neural Network (RNN), Convolutional Neural Network (CNN), and transformer—as well as examining them on a wide range of diverse datasets. In this paper, we aim to address these issues by systematically investigating the combination of log data embedding strategies and DL types for failure prediction. To that end, we propose a modular architecture to accommodate various configurations of embedding strategies and DL-based encoders. To further investigate how dataset characteristics such as dataset size and failure percentage affect model accuracy, we synthesised 360 datasets, with varying characteristics, for three distinct system behavioural models, based on a systematic and automated generation approach. Using the F1 score metric, our results show that the best overall performing configuration is a CNN-based encoder with Logkey2vec. Additionally, we provide specific dataset conditions, namely a dataset size $$>350$$

>
350

or a failure percentage $$>7.5\%$$

>
7.5
%

, under which this configuration demonstrates high accuracy for failure prediction.
Integrated storage assignment for an E-grocery fulfilment centre: accounting for day-of-week demand patterns
Authors: Winkelmann David , Tolkmitt Frederik , Ulrich Matthias , Römer Michael
Published: June 2024

In this paper, we address a storage assignment problem arising in a fulfilment centre of a major European e-grocery retailer. The centre can be characterised as a hybrid warehouse, consisting of a highly efficient and partially automated fast-picking area designed as a pick-and-pass system with multiple stations, and a picker-to-parts area. The storage assignment problem involves the decisions of selecting products to be allocated to the fast-picking area, assigning these products to picking stations, and determining the specific shelves within the designated station. The objective is to achieve high picking efficiency while maintaining balanced workloads across stations and respecting precedence order constraints. We formulate this three-level problem using an integrated mixed-integer linear programming (MILP) model. Computational experiments with real-world data demonstrate that our integrated approach yields significantly better results than a sequential approach, where the selection of products to be included in the fast-picking area is performed before assigning stations and shelves. To enhance computational efficiency, we propose a heuristic solution approach that fixes SKUs to shelves, allowing us to find better solutions in shorter runtimes compared to directly solving the MILP model. Additionally, we extend the integrated storage assignment model to explicitly account for within-week demand variation. In a set of experiments with day-of-week-dependent demands, we show that while a storage assignment based on average demand figures can lead to highly imbalanced workloads on certain days, the augmented model provides well-balanced storage assignments for each day-of-week without compromising the solution quality in terms of picking efficiency. The benefits of accounting for demand variation are further demonstrated through a simulation-based analysis using sampled weekly data.
The Land of Opportunity: Bioarchaeological Perspectives of Women’s Lives in the Industrial Expansion into the Western UNITED STATES (1850–1915)
Authors: P. Anderson Cheryl , P. Harrod Ryan , M. Baustian Kathryn
Published: June 2024

Taking a bioarchaeological approach that puts human skeletal remains in context with historical records, we reconstruct the experiences of three women who lived in the West during the 1800s and early 1900s. Telling the stories of one woman from a homestead outside the city of Las Vegas, Nevada and two women recovered from a sand dune near Walters Ferry, Idaho, we offer insight into what life was like for those who ventured west in search of new identities and roles in developing industries. Our analysis includes documentation of pathological conditions, activity-related changes, and trauma in comparison to other historic cemetery samples from communities growing in this region. Through examination of the skeletal data from these diverse data sets, patterns emerge regarding the health profiles of these women. In particular, the results show that the pathological conditions observed on the three women from Nevada and Idaho align with those documented in the published literature and provide insight into their risk of morbidity and trauma.
Root participles: directive, commissive, expressive and representative participles in Germanic root configurations
Authors: Wegner Dennis
Published: June 2024

The present paper investigates participial root configurations, i.e. participial clauses that are grammatically independent of a host clause. Unlike previous work, which has focussed on either directive or (non-directive) performative uses of so-called past participles (i.e. participles that have passive and/or perfect(ive) interpretations), the present paper establishes a typology of ‘root participles’ in Germanic and contrasts the properties of four main types: (1) directive (RPdir), (2) expressive (RPexp), (3) commissive (RPcom), (4) representative root participles (RPrep). The main claim with respect to the properties of these distinct types is that they differ in terms of whether they include a verbal or an adjectival (passive) participle. In fact, arguments based on argument structure, orientation, aspect, and adverbial modification are presented to substantiate the claim that types (1) and (2) are formed with verbal and types (3) and (4) with adjectival participles. Additionally, the distinct types will be shown to differ in their status of either being non-sentential (i.e. structurally different from potential clausal counterparts) or merely elliptical (just phonologically reduced): types (1) and (3) can be shown to be non-sentential and hence receive a dedicated syntactic analysis, where special attention is paid to the contribution of the (imperative vs. declarative) left periphery.
Quantitatively measuring the cytotoxicity of viscous hydrogels with direct cell sampling in a micro scale format “MicroDrop” and its comparison to CCK8
Authors: Margot Anna Marie , Engels Andreas , Sittinger Michael , Dehne Tilo , Hemmati-Sadeghi Shabnam
Published: June 2024

Tissue engineering holds promise for developing therapeutic applications using viscous materials e.g. hydrogels. However, assessing the cytotoxicity of such materials with conventional assays can be challenging due to non-specific interactions. To address this, we optimized a live/dead staining method for quantitative evaluation and compared it with the conventional CCK8 assay. Our MicroDrop method involved seeding droplets containing 5000 cells in 10 µl medium on 12-well plates. After allowing them to adhere for 4 h, various viscous samples were applied to the cells and measurements were conducted using a fluorescence microscope immediately and at daily intervals up to 72 h. A sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) dilution series compared the MicroDrop with the CCK8 assay. The findings revealed a cell-type specific pattern for 10 mg/ml hyaluronic acid (HA), wherein MC3T3-E1 cells maintained 95% viability until 72 h, while L929 cells experienced a gradual decline to 17%. 2 mg/ml HA exhibited consistent viability above 90% across all time points and cell lines. Similarly, fibrin demonstrated 90% viability across dilutions and time points, except for undiluted samples showing a decrease from 85% to 20%. Gelatin-methacrylol sustained viability above 70% across all time points at both 5% and 10% concentrations. The comparison of the SDS dilution series between viability (MicroDrop) and metabolic activity (CCK8) assay showed a correlation coefficient of 0.95. The study validates the feasibility of the established assay, providing researchers with an efficient tool for assessing cytotoxicity in viscous materials. Additionally, it holds the potential to yield more precise data on well-known hydrogels.

Graphical Abstract
Biological and mechanical performance of calcium phosphate cements modified with phytic acid
Authors: Steinacker Valentin C. , Weichhold Jan , Renner Tobias , Gubik Sebastian , Vollmer Andreas , Breitenbücher Niko , Fuchs Andreas , Straub Anton , Hartmann Stefan , Kübler Alexander C. , Gbureck Uwe
Published: June 2024

Calcium phosphate cements, primarily brushite cements, require the addition of setting retarders to ensure adequate processing time and processability. So far, citric acid has been the primary setting retarder used in this context. Due to the poor biocompatibility, it is crucial to explore alternative options for better processing. In recent years, the setting retarder phytic acid (IP6) has been increasingly investigated. This study investigates the biological behaviour of calcium phosphate cements with varying concentrations of IP6, in addition to their physical properties. Therefore cytocompatibility in vitro testing was performed using osteoblastic (MG-63) and osteoclastic (RAW 264.7 differentiated with RANKL) cells. We could demonstrate that the physical properties like the compressive strength of specimens formed with IP6 (brushite_IP6_5 = 11.2 MPa) were improved compared to the reference (brushite = 9.8 MPa). In osteoblast and osteoclast assays, IP6 exhibited significantly better cytocompatibility in terms of cell activity and cell number for brushite cements up to 11 times compared to the brushite reference. In contrast, the calcium-deficient hydroxyapatite (CDHA) cements produced similar results for IP6 (CDHA_IP6_0.25 = 27.0 MPa) when compared to their reference (CDHA = 21.2 MPa). Interestingly, lower doses of IP6 were found to be more effective than higher doses with up to 3 times higher. Additionally, IP6 significantly increased degradation in both passive and active resorption. For these reasons, IP6 is emerging as a strong new competitor to established setting retarders such as citric acid. These cements have potential applications in bone augmentation, the stabilisation of non-load bearing fractures (craniofacial), or the cementation of metal implants.

Graphical Abstract
Herbivory by Leaf-Cutting Ants: Exploring the Jasmonate Response in Host and Non-Host Plants
Authors: Müller Andrea Teresa , Ossetek Kilian Lucas , Mithöfer Axel
Published: June 2024

Leaf-cutting ants (Formicidae; Atta spp., Acromyrmex spp.) cut off pieces of leaves and other plant tissue and feed it to their symbiotic fungi. As this foraging behavior poses an imminent threat to agriculture, leaf-cutting ants are considered as pests of huge ecologically and economically importance. Consequently, research on leaf-cutting ants focused on their foraging decisions and interactions with their cultivated symbiotic fungi, whereas their effect on the attacked plants, apart from the loss of plant tissue, remains largely unknown. In this study, we investigated the consequences of an attack by leaf-cutting ants and analyzed the plants’ defense responses in comparison to chewing caterpillars and mechanical damage. We found that an attack by leaf-cutting ants induces the production of jasmonates in several host and non-host plant species (Arabidopsis thaliana, Vicia faba, Phaseolus lunatus, Tococa quadrialata). Additionally, we showed in the natural host plant lima bean (P. lunatus) that leaf-cutting ant damage immediately leads to the emission of typical herbivory-induced plant volatiles, including green leaf volatiles and terpenoids. Further data exploration revealed clear differences in the defense-related phytohormone profile in plant species of Neotropical and Eurasian origin. Taken together, we show that leaf-cutting ant infestation and their way of clipping the plants’ tissues induce jasmonate and jasmonates-mediated responses and do not differ from those to mechanical injury or larval feeding.
The Impact of Sorbent Amendments for Mercury Remediation on the Viability of Soil Microorganisms
Authors: Ogbudu Jeffrey , Egbo Timothy E. , Johs Alexander , Sahu Rajnish , Abdelmageed Yazeed , Ayariga Joseph , Robertson Boakai K.
Published: June 2024

Mercury (Hg) remediation across contaminated environments in the United States is an ongoing project. As part of the Hg cleanup strategy at East Fork Poplar Creek (EFPC), located in Oak Ridge, TN, the deployment of sorbents is considered. However, the impact of sorbents on soil microorganisms is poorly understood. In this study, we investigated the effect of sorbents on soil microorganism viability and biofilm formation to assess soil health during sorbent application for Hg remediation. We specifically investigated the effect of two engineered sorbents, Organoclay PM-199 and Organoclay MRM (which are manufactured from clay minerals formulated for various remediation applications), on two gram-negative organisms (Serratia marcescens and Burkholderia thailandensis) isolated from the Hg-contaminated EFPC bank soil. Pure cultures of S. marcescens or B. thailandensis were amended with 5% (w/v) and 25% (w/v) PM-199 and MRM, respectively, for 9 days. The samples were harvested, and bacterial cell viability was determined using a BacLight staining kit. Results showed that the growth of sorbent-amended S. marcescens was inhibited in contrast to that of unamended control. Furthermore, biochemical assays were used to analyze bacterial biofilm formation and integral biofilm components. Our results suggest that biofilm formation by sorbent-amended S. marcescens was negatively affected. In contrast, B. thailandensis amended with low concentrations of MRM showed enhanced growth and notable differences in biofilm morphology. These results suggest that the use of organoclay PM-199 and MRM at higher concentrations in field studies may hinder the growth of specific soil microorganisms.
Microstructural Evolution of Tantalum During Deformation and Subsequent Annealing
Authors: Brown Donald W. , Anghel Veronica , Clausen Bjorn , Pokharel Reeju , Savage Daniel J. , Vogel Sven C.
Published: June 2024

Microstructure-aware models are necessary to predict the behavior of material based on process knowledge or to extrapolate mechanical properties of materials to environmental conditions which are not easily reproduced in the laboratory, e.g., nuclear reactor environments. Elemental Ta provides a relatively simple BCC system in which to develop a microstructural understanding of deformation processes which can then be applied to more complicated BCC alloys. In situ neutron diffraction during compressive deformation and subsequent heat treatment have been used to monitor the evolution of microstructural features in Ta throughout simulated processing steps. Crystallographic texture and dislocation density are determined as a function of first plastic strain, then temperature. Lattice strains are determined and attributed to stresses at macroscopic, grain and dislocation length scales. The increase of the dislocation density through deformation and subsequent recovery during heat treatment is monitored through the changing diffraction line profile. Also, randomization of the texture is used as a signature of recrystallization. The recovery of dislocations through annihilation is not observed to depend on the initial dislocation density in the range studied here. In contrast, recrystallization is observed to depend strongly on the initially dislocation density.
The Power to Exclude: The (Mis)Treatment of Unaccompanied Minors under the Trump and Biden Administration
Authors: Gerken Christina
Published: June 2024

In “The Biden Plan for Securing Our Values as a Nation of Immigrants” (hereinafter “Biden Plan“), then-candidate Joe Biden promised to “reassert America’s commitment to asylum-seekers and refugees.” Three years into his presidency, how far has the Biden Administration come in their efforts to create a more humane asylum system? And has the treatment of unaccompanied minors seen any significant improvements? This article examines the Trump Administration’s attempts to permanently alter the US asylum system. After trying to categorically ban all claims that were based on persecution by “private actors,” the Trump Administration seized on the COVID-19 pandemic as a convenient pretext for taking away even some of the most basic human rights protections that asylum-seekers have enjoyed for generations. This article will argue that the Biden Administration, despite their efforts to restore some basic protections, continues to criminalize and institutionalize many unaccompanied minors.
The acceptability of technology-enabled physical activity feedback in cardiac patients and health care professionals
Authors: Springett Daniella , Lauber Kathrin , Gillison Fiona , Wort Georgina , Augustine Daniel , Thompson Dylan , Peacock Oliver
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Physical activity is a key component of cardiac rehabilitation (CR). Despite the widely reported benefits of CR, uptake in the United Kingdom is still low. Alternative home-based and technology-facilitated delivery models are needed to improve CR uptake and physical activity. This study set out to explore patient and clinician views of personalised, multidimensional physical activity feedback and its potential use within CR.

Methods

We developed graphics for the presentation of personalised multidimensional physical activity feedback from data collected through wrist-worn monitors. Thirteen cardiac patients and nine healthcare professionals recruited from South West England wore research grade physical activity monitors for seven days. Participants then attended semi-structured interviews during which personalised physical activity feedback was provided. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analysed thematically.

Results

Two main themes were derived from the data which covered: 1) the perceived value of multidimensional physical activity feedback, and 2) support needed to facilitate understanding. Within the first theme, participants acknowledged that multidimensional physical activity feedback was useful for monitoring progress, goal setting, and increasing self-awareness of physical activity behaviour among both patients and clinicians. Within theme two, the need for more guidance and support from clinicians to aid patient understanding and reassurance was highlighted, particularly for those with very low physical activity levels.

Conclusions

Multidimensional physical activity feedback delivered using a technology-enabled approach was perceived as acceptable among patients and clinicians. This study provides insights into the potential novel use of technology-enabled physical activity feedback to support and expand the delivery of CR.
Maclura tinctoria (L.) D. Don ex Steud. (Moraceae): a review of the advances in ethnobotanical knowledge, phytochemical composition, and pharmacological potential
Authors: Quintero-Rincón Patricia , Pájaro-González Yina , Diaz-Castillo Fredyc
Published: June 2024

Maclura tinctoria (Moraceae), commonly known as dinde, is a lactescent tree of significant economic importance with extensive ethnomedicinal and ethnobotanical applications. Among native populations in the Neotropics, dinde is used to address diverse forms of inflammatory arthritis, along with ailments stemming from viral, bacterial, or fungal origins. Its efficacy stands out notably in the treatment of conditions affecting the buccal cavity, respiratory tract, and venereal infections. These medicinal attributes have spurred investigations into their potential for developing nutraceuticals and pharmacological agents. Also, dinde has a commercial appeal intertwined with the remarkable qualities of its wood, which include the resistance to moisture and termites. This review consolidates information encompassing peer-reviewed articles from major scientific databases such as Science Direct, Scopus, Springer, PubMed, and Google Scholar. The review spans fifty-four phytocompounds, characterized by remarkable structural complexity and identified from the year 2000 onward. These compounds are categorized into flavones, isoflavones, flavonols, flavanols, flavanones, chalcones, and xanthones, where a significant portion exhibiting glycosylation or prenylation. Additionally, phenolic acids and condensed tannins contribute to the chemical diversity of this species. This comprehensive review offers updated insights into the potential bioactivity of chemical constituents identified in this plant, elucidating findings derived from different studies employing both in vitro and in vivo assays.

Graphical abstract
Middle Devonian reef-derived calciturbidites of western Ossa-Morena Zone (Portugal): conodont biostratigraphy of the Eifelian Pedreira da Engenharia Limestone
Authors: Silvério Gonçalo , Liao Jau-Chyn , Valenzuela-Ríos José I. , Machado Gil , Barreto Pedro , Moreira Noel
Published: June 2024

The first biostratigraphical study on the complete Pedreira da Engenharia quarry section (Middle Devonian, SW Portugal) is presented. A total of 32 samples were collected from the three subsections (PE-A, quarry floor; PE-B and PE-C). This led to the identification of 15 species belonging to the genera Icriodus, Polygnathus and Tortodus. Four index species were identified: P. costatus; T. australis; T. kockelianus; and P. ensensis. The age for the Pedreira da Engenharia section was updated from the costatus zone (Boogaard, 1972) to the costatus-ensensis zones (lower to uppermost Eifelian). There is a thin part of the succession representing the kockelianus and, possibly, eiflius zones, together being represented by 1,5 m. A CAI value of 5-5.5 for the conodont elements indicates a maximum temperature of over 300 ºC. The Pedreira da Engenharia Limestone, together with the Odivelas Limestone, are evidence of the development of calciturbidite sedimentation associated with atoll-like structures (only preserved in Odivelas) along the SW boundary of Ossa-Morena Zone, being probably associated with the beginning of the subduction of the Rheic Ocean during Early to Middle Devonian times.
Biochar technology cannot offset land carbon emissions in Guangdong province, China
Authors: Wang Funing , Zhou Wenneng , Wang Xili , Zhao Qing , Han Mengjie
Published: June 2024

As a highly developed region, Guangdong province has substantial industrial emissions. Its subtropical monsoon climate, characterized by abundant hydrothermal conditions, contributes to a substantial biomass potential. The adoption of potential biomass-based carbon dioxide removal (CDR) technologies, such as biochar, presents an opportunity to mitigate emissions and work towards carbon neutrality in the future. However, the current state of the land carbon balance and the CDR potential of biochar in Guangdong province remains unclear. We first calculated the land carbon balance based on inventory data. Then we estimated the CDR potential of biochar derived from agricultural residues, forestry residues, and bioenergy crops cultivated on marginal lands in Guangdong province using life cycle analysis (LCA). Results show that Guangdong province has not yet achieved carbon neutrality, with a net emission (carbon emissions remaining after offsetting by carbon sinks) of 925.63 Tg CO2e (CO2 equivalent, 1Tg = 106 t) in 2021. Emissions from energy consumption account for the highest proportion, contributing 83.8% of total emissions. In the highest biomass utilization scenario, the maximum CDR potential of biochar derived from all biomass types reaches 84.30 Tg CO2e yr-1, which could offset 9.11% of net carbon emissions in Guangdong province. Our findings provide crucial guidance for setting emission reduction targets and implementing effective mitigation strategies in Guangdong province under temperature warming.

Graphical Abstract
Navigating the complex terrain of healthcare systems in Sub-Saharan Africa: challenges and opportunities for progress
Authors: Agyei Eunice , Kumah Emmanuel
Published: June 2024

Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) faces a complex healthcare landscape characterized by a multitude of challenges and opportunities. This paper delves into the pressing issues confronting SSA’s healthcare systems and presents a roadmap for sustainable improvement. The region grapples with a disproportionate burden of infectious diseases, such as HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria, alongside a rising prevalence of non-communicable diseases. A severe shortage of trained healthcare professionals, urban–rural healthcare disparities, and financial barriers further compound the situation. However, amid these challenges lie significant opportunities for progress. Three key pillars for transforming healthcare in SSA are highlighted: strengthening healthcare financing, improving governance and policy frameworks, and enhancing healthcare infrastructure and technology. SSA stands at a crossroads in its pursuit of improved healthcare systems and overall well-being. Addressing these opportunities through the joint efforts of governments, international organizations, and communities can create an accessible, accountable, and technologically advanced healthcare system. Investments made today will yield substantial dividends in terms of improved health outcomes, economic growth, and societal development. SSA has the potential to transform its healthcare landscape and embark on a path towards a healthier and more prosperous future.
Reviving Rural America
Authors: Eisenberg Ann M.
Published: June 2024

We often hear that there is no way out of the modern economic and political tensions that fall along geographic lines. The media regularly declares that rural America is dying and that rural voters are driven only by anger. This narrative of hopelessness centers on the role that markets have played in abandoning rural regions and populations. In Reviving Rural America, Ann M. Eisenberg analyzes our society's laws and policies' role in the urban/rural divide to make the case for hope. She demonstrates how law and policy, as well as decision-makers acting on their own subjective values, have contributed to modern rural challenges. Each chapter debunks a common myth about rural people, places, and policies, helping reveal how we got to where we are now. Ultimately calling for our laws and policies to steward rural America holistically, as a collective resource for all, this book envisions an alternative, more resilient and more just future.