bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Patient-reported walking difficulty predicting the post-discharge overall function in patients with lung cancer undergoing minimally invasive surgery
Authors: Tian Xin , Mao Peiyang , Lei Cheng , Yu Hongfan , Dai Wei , Wei Xing , Zhang Jingyu , Xu Wei , Shi Qiuling
Published: August 2024

Background
Postoperative mobility of patients with lung cancer is crucial for their physical rehabilitation. This study aimed to identify severe walking difficulty and establish a threshold for predicting the functional recovery of patients with lung cancer undergoing minimally invasive surgery (MIS).
Methods
This prospective study enrolled patients with lung cancer who underwent MIS, divided into two cohorts. The 0–10-scale walking difficulty score was assessed daily during hospitalization following surgery and weekly for 4 weeks after discharge. Chi-square and receiver operating characteristic curve analyses were employed to establish the threshold, with the Timed Up and Go Test on postoperative day 2 as an anchor in cohort 1. The European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire Core 30 was assessed biweekly for 1 month post-discharge. Post-discharge functional status trajectories were compared based on the threshold.
Results
Based on cohort 1, the threshold for walking difficulty was set to 4. Cohort 2 patients were categorized using the threshold: 71.26% exhibited no or mild, while 28.74% experienced severe walking difficulty upon discharge. Compliance rates for reporting walking difficulty post-discharge consistently exceeded 60%. Significant differences in post-discharge physical function (P < 0.001), emotional function (P = 0.008), role function (P < 0.001), and quality of life (P = 0.033) were observed among patients with differing walking difficulty severities.
Conclusions
A patient-reported walking difficulty score of ≥ 4 indicates severe walking difficulty. Significant differences in post-discharge functional status were observed among patients with different walking difficulty degrees. Intensive care for severe walking difficulty is crucial for post-discharge functional recovery.
Trial registration number: ChiCTR2000033016
Impact of Infill Strategy and Process Parameters on Selectivity and Performance of PLA Structures Obtained by 3D Printing
Authors: NASSER Mohamed , Rezg Mehrez Ben , Felleh Mamoun , Montagne Alex
Published: August 2024

In recent years, fused deposition manufacturing (FDM) techniques have been seen as the processes of the future. One of the main challenges is to identify the optimal parameterization of the 3D printing process in terms of quality, productivity, and service durability of the resulting structures. Hardness is little studied in the literature dedicated to PLA structures, despite its importance in terms of mechanical strength and wear resistance. The correlations between the hardness of PLA structures and the parameters for adjusting 3D printing processes are almost unstudied in the scientific literature. In contrast, this work evaluates the impact of FDM process parameters on the resulting microhardness characteristics (Top/Bottom) using Design of Experiment (DOE) tools. The impact of input factors such as filling strategy, extrusion temperature and layer number in 3D printing on the behavior of polylactic acid (PLA) was discussed and justified. Response surface optimization (RSM) methodology and ANOVA analyses were used to establish a decision support strategy for the selection and parameterization of FDM processes. As a result, the microhardness of the surfaces (Top/Bottom) on samples (1 cm3) was measured for different combinations of the 3D printing factors. In fact, the coupling between the physical (structural homogeneity) and mechanical (microhardness) characteristics allowed us to establish a performance index to maximize microhardness while minimizing structural heterogeneity. Optimal factors were identified and discussed using ANOVA analysis and multi-objective optimization for the selection of materials and structures. The originality of this work lies in the coupling of the RSM methodology with the ANOVA analysis in the selection of process parameters for the expected microhardness and structural homogeneity performances. The multi-objective optimization approach revealed the optimal 3D printing conditions: A ZIGZAG filling strategy, a temperature of 230°C for a 4-layer construction with a thickness of 0.2 mm. These combinations of process control factors result in optimal performance in terms of surface microhardness and the homogeneity of the resulting PLA structures.
miR-161 inhibits ferroptosis by targeting EGLN2 in vascular dementia rat model
Authors: Zhou Xianxi , Zhou Liting , Ma Chunmei , Kong Jiechen , Liu Aijun
Published: August 2024

Vascular dementia (VD) was characterized by both motor and non-motor dysfunctions and accounts for approximately 20% of dementia patients. Although VD has been given enormous attention owing to its high morbidity and severe consequence, the pathologic mechanisms of VD remain unclear. In this study, the bilateral common carotid artery occlusion (2-VO) rat, which has similar symptoms to VD,was explored the effect of miRNAs and the correlation between ferroptosis and Egl nine homolog 2 (EGLN2) in VD. RT-qPCR showed that miR-161, a new miRNA found in the 2-VO rat, was down-regulated in the frontal lobe, concomitant with increased EGLN2 expression.Western blotting and immunohistochemistry staining results showed, compared with control, the expression of EGLN2 has a significant increase consistently. Target prediction analysis and luciferase-3'‑untranslated region (3’UTR) reporter assay identiﬁed the 3’UTR of EGLN2 mRNA to be the direct target of miR-161. Compared with miR-161 treatment, miR-161 inhibition resulted in higher EGLN2 expression. To further explore the role of EGLN2, bioinformatics was used to screen genes. The results showed that glutathione-dependent antioxidant enzyme glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) expression is significantly lower in the brains of VD patients than those in the normal brain. The results of protein interaction analysis showed that GPX4 and EGLN2 could interact with each other. Further experimental results showed, the expression of GPX4 was downgrade in vivo. For PC12 cells, the effect of EGLN2 silencing was consistent with miR-161 decreased GPX4 levels. In conclusion, multiple experimental results elucidated that miR-161 regulates ferroptosis by targeting EGLN2 expression in the frontal lobe which provides a perspective to develop a potential new therapeutic strategy for VD.
Immunohistochemical expression of Parathyroid hormone-related protein and Ezrin in Invasive Breast Carcinoma of No Special Type: A retrospective Analysis
Authors: Shalaby Menna Allah , Dawoud Marwa , Gadallah Marwa , Abdou Asmaa
Published: August 2024

Background
Globally, breast cancer ranks among the most common malignancies and has a high mortality rate. Invasive breast carcinoma of no special type (IBC-NST) presents a heterogeneous group with variable prognosis. Identifying reliable biomarkers is crucial for improving treatment strategies and predicting outcomes. This study investigates the immunohistochemical expression of parathyroid hormone-related protein (PTHrP) and ezrin in IBC-NST and their correlation with clinicopathological features and overall survival.
Methods
This retrospective study analyzed 160 paraffin-embedded tissue samples, including 123 IBC-NST and 37 normal breast tissues, collected from patients treated at Menoufia University Hospital during the period from January 2018 to January 2022. Immunohistochemical staining for PTHrP and ezrin was performed, and expression levels were quantified using the H score.
Results
PTHrP expression was significantly higher in IBC-NST than in adjacent DCIS and normal tissues (p < 0.001). High PTHrP percent of expression was associated with metastasis (p = 0.009), bone metastasis (p = 0.012), and lymphovascular invasion (p = 0.037). Ezrin expression was also significantly elevated in IBC-NST, with higher H score values correlating with high tumor grade (p = 0.002), high N stage (p = 0.045), advanced AJCC stage grouping (p = 0.0043) and metastasis (p = 0.001). A significant positive correlation was observed between PTHrP and ezrin expression (rs = 0.341, p < 0.001). Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that high ezrin expression, in terms of intensity (p = 0.007) and H score (p = 0.002), was linked to poorer survival.
Conclusion
The study highlights the significant roles of PTHrP and ezrin in breast cancer progression. Elevated levels of these proteins are associated with more aggressive disease, suggesting their capability as prognostic indicators and treatment targets in breast cancer. Additional studies are required to investigate their interaction and collective influence on breast cancer metastasis and treatment.
Clinical subtypes and pregnancy outcome of cervical incompetence
Authors: Xiao Huiqin , Xing Xiaofang , Zhang Can , Shao Yong
Published: August 2024

Objective: Cervical incompetence is an important cause of mild-term miscarriage or premature birth.This article intends to investigate the effect of surgical treatment of cervical incompetence at difference time and its influence on maternal and fetal outcomes.
Methods: The clinical data of 246 patients in our hospital were divided into selective group (150 cases) and emergency cerclage group(96 cases). According to the different degree of cervical dilatation and amniotic sac protrusion during operation, the emergence cerclage group was divided into 4 types: Type I(43 cases of cervical intraoral dilatation only),Type II(27 cases of cervical intraoral and extraoral dilatation with amniotic sac), Type III(14 cases of amniotic sac protrusion in the upper 1/3 of the vagina ), and the Type IV(12 cases of the amniotic sac protrusion in the middle and lower part do the vagina). The general conditions, high risk factors, postoperative complications, pregnancy outcome and neonatal prognosis were analyzed and compared.
Conclusion: Timely cerclage can significantly prolong the pregnancy time, increase the live birth rate and improve the neonatal outcome. Cervical incompetence can be classified into four types based on the degree of cervical dilation during surgery and the degree of amniotic sac protrusion; Transvaginal amniotic fluid reduction surgery provides an effective surgical solution for patients with cervical incompetence type IV.
Landscape fragmentation and agricultural context impact pollination dynamics of native annual plants
Authors: Sevenello Manuel , Walker Zac C. , Mayfield Margaret M.
Published: August 2024

Context
Agricultural intensification leads to habitat loss and fragmentation, disrupting plant-pollinator interactions directly, through changes in landscape configuration, and indirectly through altered land-use practices. This has detrimental consequences for the persistence of plants, pollinators, and the ecosystem services they provide.
Objectives
We investigated the mechanisms by which environmental and agricultural context impact pollination dynamics and the reproductive success of native plant species in remnant vegetation within an agricultural mosaic. Specifically, we evaluate the direct and indirect effects of landscape fragmentation (patch size and edge effect) and agricultural practices (crop type adjacent to natural remnants) on bee communities and native plants seed production.
Methods
We sampled the pollinator community and conducted pollination experiments on four native annual plant species in the core and edge of nine natural remnants. For each site, we recorded remnant size, adjacent crop type (canola or wheat), and local environmental and biological conditions. We then assessed the relationships between these landscape features, bee communities, pollination services, and the reproductive success of native annual forb species.
Results
Bee abundance was higher in reserves adjacent to canola compared to wheat. However, bee abundance decreased from the core to the edge of remnants adjacent to canola, suggesting a possible pollinator dilution effect. Canola directly and indirectly increased seed production of the focal plant species, mediated by changes in pollinator abundance.
Conclusions
Adjacent crop type, edge effects, and patch size shape plant-pollinator interactions through changes in pollinator abundance, whereas local-scale floral abundance influence pollination dynamics. Our findings indicate that agricultural practices impact the reproductive success of native plants persisting in remnants within an intensively managed agricultural landscape. Further, we show that this effect is mediated by the abundance of generalist insect pollinators in remnant vegetation.
Extreme rainfall forecasting using a hybrid model approach - A case study of the Ajay River basin
Authors: Mandraha Shivanand
Published: August 2024

Extreme rainfall event forecasting is important as these events are responsible for causing floods, landslides, and other hazards with substantial socio-economic consequences. The intricate nature of rainfall occurrences makes it more difficult to forecast accurately, especially when it comes to extreme rainfall. This study investigates the application of the Quantile Perturbation Method (QPM) along with the Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) networks to forecast extreme rainfall anomalies. This methodology utilizes the strength of QPM to decipher oscillations in time series of extreme rainfall to identify anomalies, which are then forecasted using LSTM. The model was developed for the Ajay River basin as a case study based on historical rainfall data from 1901–2022. To determine the best model, several experiments with various configurations were conducted. Performance metrics such as Nash-Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE), correlation coefficient (R), and root mean square error (RMSE) were utilized for model evaluations. The QPM-LSTM model was compared against other combined machine learning models, including Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) and Support Vector Regression (SVR). The investigation demonstrated satisfactory predictive performance by the QPM-LSTM model, achieving NSE, R, and RMSE values of 0.87, 0.93, and 7.26, respectively. Compared to the other evaluated models, these results highlighted the potential of the QPM-LSTM model as a valuable tool for forecasting extreme rainfall anomalies, offering significant benefits for water resource management and other sectors vulnerable to extreme rainfall events.
Exploring Gender Differences in Psychological Motivation and Effectiveness Evaluation for College Sports Adherence
Authors: Wang Li , Zhang Pengfei
Published: August 2024

This study examines the influence of gender on psychological motivation and effectiveness evaluation among college students to sports adherence. A questionnaire survey involved 782 Chinese college students, 335 males and 447 females. Data were analyzed using multiple regression, revealing the positive impact of psychological motivation and effectiveness evaluation on promoting adherence to sports activities. Findings indicate that gender significantly influences the psychological motivation and effectiveness evaluation that affect students' commitment to physical education and sports. Male students demonstrated greater adherence to sports, driven by socialization and fun motivation, whereas female students prioritized the evaluative aspects of physical appearance and health. These insights underscore the necessity for tailored physical education strategies that cater to the distinct needs of gender-diverse students, thereby fostering ongoing engagement and adherence to physical activities.
Applying Shifted-Beta-Geometric and Beta-Discrete-Weibull Models for Employee Retention Curve Projection
Authors: Antipov Evgeny A. , Gagarskaya Anastasia , Trofimova Yulia , Pokryshevskaya Elena
Published: August 2024

Employees are vital assets to any organization, and their departure can result in reduced human capital and operational disruptions. To mitigate this, companies employ predictive analysis to forecast potential employee churn. Probability-based modeling for projecting employee churn is an underexplored area in HR analytics. This paper tests the applicability of the shifted-beta-geometric (sBG) and beta-discrete-Weibull (BdW) models within the context of employee survival projection. Using data from three cohorts of employees, we compare the results of these models with each other as well as with linear and logarithmic regressions. Our key finding is the superior performance of the BdW model, which can capture differences in churn rates between employees and within employees over time. The beta distribution captures the heterogeneous employee loyalty, while the Weibull distribution effectively captures retention rate changes over time. Our research demonstrates that parsimonious probabilistic models, which require minimal data and have so far been used only in customer analytics, can be applied in HR analytics for projecting employee retention curves.
Design, synthesis and nematicidal activity of novel 1,2,4-oxadiazole derivatives containing amide fragments
Authors: Ou Yuqin , Guo Xue , Zhang Qi , Zhang Wei , Gan Xiuhai
Published: August 2024

Plant-parasitic nematodes are seriously affecting agricultural production worldwide and there are few highly effective and low-risk nematicides to control nematode diseases. In order to discover new nematicides, a series of 1,2,4-oxadiazole derivatives containing amide fragments have been designed and synthesized with the principle of active substructure splicing. The nematicidal activity of the target compounds were evaluated in vitro and it indicated that compound C3 exhibited the most nematicidal activity against Bursaphelenchus xylophilus, Aphelenchoides besseyi, and Ditylenchus destructor with the LC50 values of 37.2, 36.6, and 43.4 μg/mL, respectively, which were superior to positive agent tioxazafen. The preliminary mechanisms results revealed that compound C3 not only inhibited the reproduction of B. xylophilus populations, but also affected the production of ROS and the accumulation of lipofuscin and lipids. Furthermore, compound C3 showed good inhibition of succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) with the IC50 value of 45.5 µmol/L. Molecular docking indicated that compound C3 had excellent binding to amino acids around the SDH active pocket. This work indicated that 1,2,4-oxadiazole derivative containing amide fragment is a promising template for the discovery of new nematicides and compound C3 can be used as a potential nematicide candidate.
Low Temperature Enhances Skin Wound Healing by Activating Long-Chain Fatty Acid Synthesis Which Promotes Exit of the Inflammatory Phase
Authors: Zhou Siyi , Li Zeming , Li Ke , Ye Yuanli , Liang Huan , Wang Nian’ou , Liu Weiwei , Jiang Jingwei , Chen Aijun , Xiang Xiao , Lei Mingxing
Published: August 2024

Empirical evidence indicates that the rate of wound healing varies through different seasons, where it is higher in spring and fall but lower in summer and winter, suggesting appropriate low temperatures may promote wound healing via an unknown mechanism. Here we discover such low temperature which facilitates wound healing by stimulating long-chain fatty acid synthesis that curtails inflammation. Using skin injury and skin organoids models, single-cell RNA-sequencing and spatial transcriptomics analysis, and in vivo functional perturbations, we demonstrate that treatment at 20℃ markedly increases the rate of wound healing by upregulating Elongation of Very Long Chain Fatty Acid Elongase 4 (ELOVL4) in the injured epidermis. We identify docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) as the key products of ELOVL4 that independently control wound healing by dampening the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα). This chain of physiological events enhances wound healing via its timely exit of the inflammatory phase and entry into the reconstructive phase of tissue repair. Our findings highlight the skin adaptability to low temperatures and link the evolutionarily conserved mechanism of long-chain fatty acid synthesis to wound repair while demonstrating the potential application of low-temperature therapy in wound healing.
Effect of Nanodiamonds on Friction Reduction Performance in Presence of Organic and Inorganic Friction Modifiers
Authors: Piya Afrina Khan , Yang Liuquan , Emami Nazanin , Morina Ardian
Published: August 2024

The strive to reduce harmful emissions from transport has resulted in an increase emphasis on minimising friction in lubricated contacting components to improve the energy efficiency of automotive engines. In this sense, it is of particular interest to investigate whether synergistic tribological performance could be achieved by combining of two or more friction modifier additives with nanoparticles especially nanodiamonds due to their distinctive tribological properties in order to minimize harmful sulphur and phosphorous concentration from lubricant formulation. This study conducts a comprehensive investigation into the tribological characteristics of lubricant formulations enriched with nanodiamonds (NDs), combined with both organic (Glycerol Monooleate, GMO) and inorganic (Molybdenum dithiocarbamate, MoDTC) friction modifiers, and a minimal quantity of an anti-wear additive (Zinc dialkyl dithio-phosphate, ZDDP) with Poly-alpha-olefin (PAO) base oil. The outcomes of tribological experiments indicate that incorporating NDs can positively influence friction and wear characteristics, depending upon their interactions with other additives present in the lubricant mixture. Analysis of wear scars using High-Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (HRTEM), Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), and Raman spectroscopy reveals that employing NDs as a friction modifier with other additives is a viable strategy to lessen the use of harmful lubricant additives and enhance overall tribological efficacy.
Characterizing and Assessing Drinking Water Treatment Plant Sludges as a Soil Stabilizer in Trabzon, Türkiye
Authors: AYDIN Kemal , SİVRİKAYA Osman , ÜÇÜNCÜ Osman , AYDİN Faruk
Published: August 2024

Resources used with the increasing population and developing industry and related wastes are also increasing rapidly. The conscious use of the environment and natural resources for future generations, and the waste products resulting from the resources used should be evaluated with the most economical and environmentally friendly attitude without harming nature. Considering factors such as the country's economy, storage cost, efficient use of resources and most importantly environmental and public health, evaluating these wastes is quite important. Today, many studies have been carried out to assess these wastes with an economic and ecological attitude. Determining the characterization of waste is the most fundamental step to be taken for the selection of the waste evaluation method. Therefore, the most accurate evaluation method is decided by determining the characterization of the waste material to be used. In this study, it was aimed to determine the characterization of waste sludges from some of the drinking water treatment plants in Trabzon, Türkiye and to evaluate them in terms of ground stabilization. In this context, the waste sludge samples from the Esiroğlu, Akçaabat and Derecik Drinking Water Treatment Plants with traditional treatment systems were taken from the plants in slurry form and were first dewatered. Subsequently, a series of analyses and experimental studies on dewatered waste samples were carried out and characterizations of waste sludges were determined based on their mineralogical, chemical, physical and mechanical properties. As the material properties of the treatment sludges in the drinking water treatment plants were evaluated, the WS-1 was found to the most suitable material that could be used in the stabilization of soils. Therefore, the use of this sludge will be both ecological and economical.
Predictive Factors for Cardiovascular Disease in Dermatomyositis: A Comprehensive Exploration
Authors: Metko Dea , Bednar Dimitra , Legault Kimberly , Abu-Hilal Mohannad
Published: August 2024

Dermatomyositis (DM) has been associated with multiple systemic complications, including cardiovascular diseases such as dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and/or congestive heart failure (CHF). These cardiovascular complications are associated with increased morbidity and mortality in DM patients emphasizing the importance of identifying predictive factors. Our study investigates risk factors for DCM and/or CHF in patients with adult-onset DM in Ontario, Canada. The study comprised 114 patients in total, with a median age of 58 years (range = 21–99), and 80% female participants. 16 individuals (14%) were diagnosed with DCM and/or CHF. Statistical analyses showed that the presence of Raynaud's phenomenon, increased disease duration, the presence of anti-Ro 52 antibodies, elevated ESR, and elevated LDH were all predictive factors for the development of DCM/CHF in DM patients. In conclusion, this study significantly contributes to our understanding of predictive factors for CVDs in DM patients. Early prediction and continuous monitoring of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) development is crucial, given the significant morbidity and mortality attributed to CVDs in DM patients. Further research is warranted to elucidate underlying mechanisms and refine risk assessment strategies, ultimately improving patient care and outcomes in this complex autoimmune disorder.
Integrating Genome-wide association and whole transcriptome analysis to reveal genetic control of grain quality traits in barley
Authors: Luan Haiye , Gao Jiajia , Qu Xin , Li Yu , Wu Yuhao , Wang Jun , Li Shufen , Xu Meng , Xu Xiao , Sun Miao , Xing Jincheng , Shen Huiquan
Published: August 2024

Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) is an important cereal crop used in animal feed, beer brewing, and food production. Quality traits of barley grain, such as starch and protein contents, have specific requirements depending on the intended end-use product. In this study, 250 barley accessions were evaluated for key grain quality traits, including protein content (GPC), starch content (GSC) and fibre content (GFC) across a two-year period. Through genome-wide association study (GWAS) analysis, we identified 96 significant SNPs associated with grain quality traits. Additionally, two materials showed significant differences in grain quality were further selected for transcriptome analysis. A total of 4636 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and 3684 DEGs were identified in different development stage. These DEGs mainly participate in carbon fixation in photosynthetic organisms, starch and sucrose metabolism, and so on. By integrating GWAS and RNA-Seq data analysis approaches, we identified 15 candidate genes primarily involved in hydrolysis of starch, glycosyltransferase and post-translational modification. These findings provide valuable insights for gene cloning related to grain quality and server as a reference for high-quality barley cultivars.
Thickness Dependency Analysis of Igzo Based Thin Film Transistor
Authors: Verma Akshay , Kashyap Nitesh
Published: August 2024

This paper highlights the thin film transistors used in the latest applications and devices. The working principle of thin film transistors with various device structures can be used to fabricate thin film transistors. Progress in the latest materials that are being used in applications like LCDs, sensors, RFID tags, Displays, etc. The remarkable characteristics of Indium-Gallium-Zinc Oxide (IGZO) thin films, for instance, their transparency and high mobility, have generated significant interest in the application part of Thin-Film Transistors (TFTs). The operation of a-IGZO TFTs taking four different insulators [Si 3 N 4 , SiO2, HfO2, and Al2O3] into consideration by varying insulator thicknesses is studied by simulating it over Silvaco [Atlas] TCAD Tool.
Development of a neutralization reaction in a droplet that extracts chemically active surfactant from its homogeneous solution
Authors: Denisova Maria , Kostarev Konstantin
Published: August 2024

The development of the neutralization reaction in a stationary droplet of cylindrical shape, extracting a surfactant from the surrounding mixture in a vertical Hele-Shaw cell, was studied experimentally. In our experiment, we used a new method of the simultaneous visualization of the refractive index field of light and the distribution of acidity levels in the solutions of source reactants and reaction products within the droplet. To carry out this approach, we utilized a Fizeau interferometer and added a pH indicator to the droplet before the experiment. A digital video camera recorded the resulting interference pattern with the superimposed color distribution created by solutions with different acidity levels. The study was conducted on a system of liquids where the chemical potentials would be equal when the concentration of the extracted reactant in the droplet was much higher than in the surrounding environment. Two variants of reaction realization - with and without Marangoni convection development - were considered. We determined the structures of flows and concentration fields in the droplet and its neighborhood and traced their evolution. Also, we evaluated the characteristic times of the extraction process depending on the initial reactant concentrations and droplet sizes. It was found that the resulting Marangoni convection had an oscillatory character and continued after the reaction completion. As expected, the formation of the capillary motion intensified the development of chemical reaction inside the droplet.
Effect of carbon dots on properties of cement-based self-leveling mortar
Authors: Zhao Ping , Deng Jierui , Jiang Yong , An Hongna , Jia Lujun
Published: August 2024

In this work, the use of carbon dots (CDs) at a very small dosage level (1‱, 2‱, 3‱, and 4‱ by mass) in cement-based self-leveling mortar (SLM) mortar system was studied. The results show that the SLM prepared with CDs exhibited the higher flow value and setting time. The brasion resistance, bond strength, compressive strength, and flexural strength were significantly improved. Microstructure analysis revealed that the CDs could regulate formation of flower-like structure, and promote formation of cement hydration product C-S-H gel. The results of this study can provide a reference for the application of SLM reinforced with carbon dots in actual engineering.
Outcomes associated with Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors in kidney transplant recipients: A real-world analysis using a global federated database.
Authors: Davies Elin , Anwar Nageen , Austin Philip , Wong Christopher , Devonald Mark , Lip Gregory , Louise Oni , McDowell Garry , Rao Anirudh
Published: August 2024

Rationale & Objective: Several trials have shown the nephroprotective and cardiovascular benefits of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) among patients with native kidney disease. However, little is known about the safety and efficacy of SGLT2i in kidney transplant. The study aimed to investigate the benefits of SGLT2i in kidney transplant recipients.
Methods: Retrospective cohort study utilising data from adult kidney transplant recipients (≥ 18 years) was obtained from TriNetX, a global federated health research network. Cohorts were grouped by receipt of SGLT2i and 1:1 propensity-score matched for demographic characteristics, baseline cardiovascular comorbidities, laboratory data and immunosuppression. Cox regression produced hazard ratios with 95% CI for the outcomes.
Outcomes: Primary outcome: incident 5-year death-censored graft failure, rejection, major adverse cardiac events and mortality. Secondary outcomes: known complications of SGLT2i.
Results: 4,872 patients (mean age 59.2 years SD 12.2; 63% male). Patients in the SGLT2i cohort had statistically significantly reduced death censored graft failure (HR 0.43, 95% CI 0.37-0.51, p <0.0001), rejection (HR 0.44, 95% CI 0.39-0.50, p <0.0001, major adverse cardiovascular events (HR 0.80, 95% CI 0.70, 0.92, p 0.001) and mortality (HR 0.63 95% CI 0.55-0.72, p <0.017). The cohort identified no significant side effects associated with SGLT2i use.
Conclusion: Kidney transplant recipients treated with SGLT2i demonstrated a significant reduction in clinically relevant outcomes. The data suggests that they may have a strong beneficial role in the kidney transplant population.
SARS-CoV-2 wastewater surveillance at the Arlanda airport and Stockholm city during spring 2023: a comparison of variant distribution at different sectoral levels from aircraft, airport region to city wastewater treatment plants
Authors: Gurol Zeynep Cetecioglu , Perez-Zabaleta Mariel , Berg Carlo , Owusu-Agyeman Isaac , Kiyar Ayda , Latorre-Margalef Neus , Botnen Helene , Schönning Caroline , Hugerth Luisa
Published: August 2024

Wastewater monitoring, including on aircraft, is a highly efficient method for SARS-CoV-2 surveillance, surpassing traditional passenger testing. Airport wastewater sampling is especially useful for tracking virus spread through travel. This study explored the links between SARS-CoV-2 contents and variants from aircraft to city, assessing the impact of detected variants from international travellers versus the local population. A total of 969 SARS-CoV-2 variants using next-generation sequencing and Freyja software were examined to comprehensively understand the links between the four catchment areas—aircraft, airport, wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs), and the metropolitan area—and compared them to the variants detected in hospitals in Stockholm city. SARS-CoV-2 contents in WWTPs reflected local infection rates, requiring analysis from multiple plants for an accurate city-wide infection assessment. Variants initially found only in the aircraft and the airport didn’t spread widely during the study period. Wastewater monitoring proved to be more effective than clinical testing in the early detection of specific variants, with notable delays observed in the clinical surveillance. Furthermore, a broader range of variants are detected in the wastewater surpassing clinical tests. This underscores the vital role of wastewater-based epidemiology in managing future outbreaks and enhancing global health security.
A rationale for chemical defense mixtures in spruce oleoresin: most monoterpenes are highly toxic to either bark beetles or to their symbiotic fungi, but not both
Authors: Zaman Rashaduz , Jain Akanksha , Hammerbacher Almuth , Gershenzon Jonathan , Kandasamy Dineshkumar
Published: August 2024

1. Chemical defenses, such as the monoterpenes of conifer oleoresin frequently occur as complex blends of many components, but the underlying ecological reasons for these mixtures are not yet known. Several theories attempt to explain the existence of chemical defense mixtures in plants. However, due to limited empirical evidence, it is unclear which theories might best apply.
2. Here, we tested the bioactivity of 12 individual Norway spruce monoterpenes and their mixtures to adult Eurasian spruce bark beetles, Ips typographus, and three major symbiotic fungi in the vapor phase using survival and growth bioassays. Next, we evaluated whether spruce trees could alter their monoterpene profile in response to fungal infection.
3. Individual monoterpenes had generally opposite effects on bark beetles compared to symbiotic fungi. The compounds that were most toxic to beetles were the least inhibitory to fungal growth and vice versa. The least abundant monoterpenes had the strongest bioactivity against both beetles and fungi, while the most abundant monoterpenes showed intermediate bioactivity. Among the symbiotic fungi tested, one (Grosmannia penicillata) exhibited high tolerance to monoterpenes, and its growth was even stimulated by the monoterpenes most toxic to the beetle. Interestingly, spruce bark responded to G. penicillata inoculation by accumulating higher concentrations of specifically fungistatic monoterpenes.
4. Our results support the interaction diversity hypothesis, which posits that defense mixtures are maintained in plants because the individual components target different attackers. The monoterpene identity and concentration together determine the effectiveness of these compounds against herbivores and pathogens.
Examining Complexities of Artisanal and Small-Scale Gold Mining on Buru Island, Maluku Province, Indonesia
Authors: Male Yusthinus , Reichelt-Brushett Amanda , Donnelly Mia , Sullivan Caroline , Sehol Muhamad , Nanlohy Alberth , Mariwy Abraham
Published: August 2024

The Artisanal and Small-scale Gold Mining (ASGM) sector is presently one of the largest global sources of anthropogenic mercury emissions. The risk of mercury pollution from ASGM in Indonesia challenges other important industries including fisheries and tourism. Environmental degradation and risks to food safety and human health are major concerns that have been realised at local scales, including on Buru Island, Indonesia. Since the discovery of gold on Buru Island in 2011 the community has undergone dramatic changes. Some of these, such as rapid wealth accumulation, have been of benefit to people involved in the industry, however, they have been marred by negative social and economic consequences including rapid inflation, reduced rice production, and changes to the social fabric. We explore the Buru Island example through over 12 years of research interest and using empirical material through a socio-legal lens. Various legislative changes and government interventions have occurred since 2011 and there are complex interactions between industry players. Currently, the mining is low key with ore being transported to ‘back yard’ processing operations while a permitting system is anticipated. There is a legacy of land degradation and contamination as a result of the mining and ore processing. Alternatives to mercury are being considered but are challenged by uncertainty about product effectiveness, potential toxicity, and a lack of processing knowledge.
Self-force framework for transition-to-plunge waveforms
Authors: Küchler Lorenzo , Compère Geoffrey , Durkan Leanne , Pound Adam
Published: August 2024

Compact binaries with asymmetric mass ratios are key expected sources for next-generation gravitational wave detectors. Gravitational self-force theory has been successful in producing post-adiabatic waveforms that describe the quasi-circular inspiral around a non-spinning black hole with sub-radian accuracy, in remarkable agreement with numerical relativity simulations. Current inspiral models, however, break down at the innermost stable circular orbit, missing part of the waveform as the secondary body transitions to a plunge into the black hole. In this work we derive the transition-to-plunge expansion within a multiscale framework and asymptotically match its early-time behaviour with the late inspiral. Our multiscale formulation facilitates rapid generation of waveforms: we build second post-leading transition-to-plunge waveforms, named 2PLT waveforms. Although our numerical results are limited to low perturbative orders, our framework contains the analytic tools for building higher-order waveforms consistent with post-adiabatic inspirals, once all the necessary numerical self-force data becomes available. We validate our framework by comparing against numerical relativity simulations, surrogate models and the effective one-body approach.
Boundary vertex algebras for 3d $\mathcal{N}=4$ rank-0 SCFTs
Authors: Ferrari Andrea E. V. , Garner Niklas , Kim Heeyeon
Published: August 2024

We initiate the study of boundary Vertex Operator Algebras (VOAs) of topologically twisted 3d \mathcal{N}=4𝒩=4 rank-0 SCFTs. This is a recently introduced class of \mathcal{N}=4𝒩=4 SCFTs that by definition have zero-dimensional Higgs and Coulomb branches. We briefly explain why it is reasonable to obtain rational VOAs at the boundary of their topological twists. When a rank-0 SCFT is realized as the IR fixed point of a \mathcal{N}=2𝒩=2 Lagrangian theory, we propose a technique for the explicit construction of its topological twists and boundary VOAs based on deformations of the holomorphic-topological twist of the \mathcal{N}=2𝒩=2 microscopic description. We apply this technique to the BB twist of a newly discovered family of 3d \mathcal{N}=4𝒩=4 rank-0 SCFTs {\mathcal T}_r𝒯r and argue that they admit the simple affine VOAs L_r(\mathfrak{osp}(1|2))Lr(𝔬𝔰𝔭(1|2)) at their boundary. In the simplest case, this leads to a novel level-rank duality between L_1(\mathfrak{osp}(1|2))L1(𝔬𝔰𝔭(1|2)) and the minimal model M(2,5)M(2,5). As an aside, we present a TQFT obtained by twisting a 3d \mathcal{N}=2𝒩=2 QFT that admits the M(3,4)M(3,4) minimal model as a boundary VOA and briefly comment on the classical freeness of VOAs at the boundary of 3d TQFTs.
Una aproximación estructuralista a la filosofía de la mente
Authors: Soto Betancourt Jorge Iván , Cárdenas Castañeda Leonardo
Published: August 2024

El propósito de este artículo es relacionar la noción de teoría en la filosofía de la ciencia, especialmente desde el estructuralismo metateórico, con algunos aspectos contemporáneos de la filosofía de la mente, como el problema de la conciencia. Es importante advertir que este trabajo no se propone reconstruir una teoría de lo mental, no como les gustaría a los partidarios del estructuralismo metateórico, sino que trata de combinar una propuesta epistemológica para resolver un problema ontológico: la naturaleza de los estados mentales a la luz de una herramienta con un alto componente formal como lo es el estructuralismo metacientífico. De este modo, si se descarta por un instante el enfoque reconstruccionista del estructuralismo, es posible tomar el componente conceptual y el formal para, en el propio lenguaje estructural, establecer relaciones teóricas entre una propuesta del resorte de la filosofía de la ciencia con la filosofía de la mente. Tal vez esta no es una conclusión que un estructuralista valore ampliamente, pues no se reconstruye ninguna teoría, pero esta corriente modeloteórica tiene otras virtudes asociadas que podrían ser útiles para comprender adecuadamente una teoría; una de estas es, entonces, el análisis conceptual en la medida en que algunos elementos de la filosofía de la mente, en este caso, pueden ser subsumidos en el lenguaje estructural.
Sistemas técnicos en la investigación: articulando la filosofía de la técnica de Quintanilla con la nueva filosofía pragmatista de Chang
Authors: Giri Leandro
Published: August 2024

El presente trabajo busca extender el marco conceptual provisto por la filosofía sistémica de la técnica de Miguel Ángel Quintanilla, para dar cuenta de algunas situaciones típicas de la práctica científica. Por tanto, tiene por objetivo aprovechar la potencia de la herramienta filosófica de Quintanilla para alcanzar una forma de análisis pragmatista de la ciencia, compatible con la reciente propuesta epistemológica de Hasok Chang. Para ello, se modifica el marco de Quintanilla para aceptar artefactos epistémicos y se hace énfasis en las actividades epistémicas y su diferencia con otro tipo de acciones. Se concluye que el marco resulta prometedor para conseguir una forma de análisis epistemológico que trascienda su énfasis sobre el conocimiento proposicional (que queda reducido a la composición de artefactos epistémicos), de modo que se acerque a una epistemología del conocimiento activo más rica para pensar la práctica científica. Esta implica extender el dominio analítico hacia otros componentes de los sistemas técnicos de la práctica científica, incluyendo el agente epistémico y sus intenciones y las actividades epistémicas que realiza con respecto a los artefactos sobre los que opera.
Assessing Value-Laden Technology
Authors: Niiniluoto Ilkka
Published: August 2024

Technological innovations—tools, artefacts, and processes—open up new possibilities of human action and thereby increase the domain of our positive freedom. Technology is inherently value-laden, since such an intended increase of freedom may be a good or bad relative to human values. The use of tools may also involve unintended and unwanted by-products and side effects. Therefore, technology should not develop in a deterministic or random manner but should be guided by reasonable democratic principles. Technology assessment (TA) is a pattern for the evaluation of technological projects and products by their costs and benefits, risks, and profits. Using philosophical distinctions and arguments as its method, this paper explains, elaborates, and illustrates Niiniluoto’s formula TA = 6E + S for TA. The first E is effectiveness, the ability of the new tool or solution to produce its intended effects. This is the main concern of the engineer. The second is its economic profit, based on the monetary exchange value of the product. This is the domain of economic theories. Effectiveness and economy, and efficiency as their combination, are not the only relevant dimensions of TA. As products of design, artefacts have esthetic qualities, studied today in applied esthetics. The relations of tools to the health of their users are studied in ergonomics. The relations of human technologies to the health of the natural environment and sustainable development are treated in ecology. Technical tools and their effects can always be evaluated by ethical standards which concern their moral worth. Technological systems have also an impact which is social in the broad sense, since they can lead to changes in the communicative, legal, institutional, and political spheres of society.
Development of Student’s Worksheet using Project-Based Learning (PjBL) on Ecosystem Concept for Class X SMA
Authors: Riana Febi , Sunarto Sunarto , Mamangkey Jendri
Published: August 2024

The students' learning interest is decreasing due to the lack of interactive, enjoyable, and supportive instructional materials to help them achieve good learning outcomes. Therefore, researchers innovated by developing Learner Worksheets (LKPD) based on Project-Based Learning (PjBL). The research aims to assess the feasibility of PjBL-based LKPD through evaluations from experts (in content, media, and language) and students' responses. The research type used is Research and Development (RD). The assessment results from content experts showed a score of 82.03% "Very Feasible," media experts rated it 86.5% "Very Feasible," and language experts rated it 83% "Very Feasible," while students' response was 53% "Fairly Positive." Thus, it can be concluded that PjBL-based LKPD is feasible and can be used in education, especially in the field of biology
Orta Karadeniz’den Yakalanan Kurbağa Balığının (Uranoscopus scaber) Bazı Popülasyon Parametreleri
Authors: Yedıer Serdar , Kontaş Yalçınkaya Seda , Bostancı Derya
Published: August 2024

Bu çalışmada, Orta Karadeniz Yason Burnu’nda yayılış gösteren Uranoscopus scaber türünün boy-boy ve boy-ağırlık ilişkileri ile kondisyon faktörü değerlerinin belirlenmesi amaçlanmıştır. Çalışma kapsamında ağlar yardımıyla yakalanan 61 adedi dişi, 51 adedi erkek ve toplamda 112 adet balık bireyi incelenmiştir. Balık bireylerinin standart boy (SL), total boy (TL) ölçümleri ve balık ağırlıkları (W) belirlenmiştir. Erkek ve dişi bireylerin ölçümleri arasında istatistiksel olarak farklıklar (t-test, P