bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Types of Composite Materials Recycling: Chemical, Thermal, Mechanical. Literature Review
Authors: Salazar-Montes Esteban , Jacobo-Galicia Gabriela , Mendoza-Munoz Ismael , González-Angeles Alvaro , Montoya-Reyes Mildrend
Published: October 2024

Recycling of composite materials has become a very important topic to develop sustainable solutions for the management of waste generated by industries that use composite materials. This paper presents a bibliographical review on the main recycling methods of composite materials such as: mechanical, chemical, thermal and hybrid. In mechanical recycling, the material is crushed or ground, generally using the resulting material as filler, which causes limitations in the applications due to the type of resulting fibers (short, long, non-uniform). On the other hand, chemical recycling breaks down polymers through a chemical reaction and recovers fibers, so in some cases the mechanical properties of the fibers are affected. Thermal recycling uses high temperatures to break down materials, transforming them into energy or reusing them in other products. Finally, hybrid recycling uses two or more processes as a means to recover the material; among the most used methods in this category is the mechanical process combined with the thermal process. This review describes the advantages and disadvantages of each method, as well as the environmental impact. Although each type of recycling offers special characteristics for the material obtained, it is necessary to continue researching and developing technologies for recycling processes that promote recycling and reuse of composite materials in a better way.
Treatment of Canine Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease:Current and Future Approaches
Authors: Mochel Jonathan , Ward Jessica
Published: October 2024

Myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD) is a leading cause of cardiac morbidity and mortality in dogs, requiring targeted intervention at various stages of disease progression. MMVD is characterized by thickening of the mitral valve leaflets, leading to mitral regurgitation and cardiac remodeling. This progressive disease impairs valve function, causing volume overload in the left atrium and ventricle, which can eventually lead to congestive heart failure. MMVD involves complex mechanisms, including genetic predisposition, neurohormonal activation, and mechanical stress on the valve. Thickened valve leaflets fail to seal properly during systole, resulting in mitral regurgitation and increased left atrial pressure. This triggers compensatory mechanisms like activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), contributing to further cardiac remodeling. Chronic RAAS activation results in fluid retention, vasoconstriction, and fibrosis, all of which can worsen heart failure. This mini-review provides an overview of current therapeutic strategies for the management of MMVD and discusses preliminary findings from our consortium regarding the preclinical and clinical efficacy of the sodium-glucose co-transporter type-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitor, dapagliflozin, in dogs.
Evaluating an Ensemble of Random Forest and XGBoost with Gaussian Noise Upsampling Technique for Customer Churn Prediction
Authors: Imani Mehdi
Published: October 2024

Customer churn is a critical challenge for subscription-based businesses, especially in telecommunications, where retaining customers is essential to maintaining profitability. This study investigates the efficacy of two ML models, XGBoost and Random Forest, for predicting customer churn using a publicly available telecommunications dataset. The dataset, characterized by imbalanced classes, presents a crucial challenge addressed by incorporating the Gaussian Noise Upsampling (GNUS) sampling technique. The study evaluates and compares the two models using essential performance indicators, including precision, recall, accuracy, F1-score, and ROC-AUC, both with and without GNUS sampling. The results indicate that while XGBoost initially outperforms Random Forest across most metrics, both models show improved recall after the GNUS application, particularly in identifying churn cases. However, this improvement in recall comes with a trade-off in precision and overall accuracy. The findings highlight the relevance of using appropriate sampling techniques to tackle class imbalance in churn prediction and provide valuable insights for developing proactive customer retention strategies.
Exploring Gluconamide-Modified Silica Nanoparticles of Different Sizes as Effective Carriers for Antimicrobial Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Prieto-Montero Ruth , Herrera Lucia , Tejón Maite , Albaya Andrea , Chiara Jose Luis , Fanarraga Mónica L. , Martínez-Martínez Virginia
Published: October 2024

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR), a consequence of the ability of microorganisms, especially bacteria, to develop resistance against conventional antibiotics hampering the treatment of common infections, is recognized as one of the most imperative health threats of this century. Antibacterial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) has emerged as a promising alternative strategy, utilizing photo-sensitizers activated by light to generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) that kill pathogens without inducing resistance. In this work, we synthesized silica nanoparticles of different sizes (20 nm, 80 nm, and 250 nm) functionalized with the photosensitizer Rose Bengal (RB) and a gluconamide ligand, which targets Gram-negative bacteria, to assess their potential in aPDT. Comprehensive characterization, including dynamic light scattering (DLS) and photophysical analysis, confirmed the stability and effective singlet oxygen production of the functionalized nanoparticles. RB loading was size-dependent, decreasing with increasing nanoparticle diameter. Consequently, the largest nanoparticles (250 nm) displayed insufficient RB surface density for effective aPDT, while the smallest (20 nm) and intermediate (80 nm) particles were more promising. Bacterial assays in E. coli revealed minimal dark toxicity and significant light-activated phototoxicity for the RB-loaded nanoparticles. The addition of gluconamide notably enhanced phototoxic activity, particularly in the smallest nanoparticles (RB-G-20@SiNP), which demonstrated the highest photo-toxicity-to-cytotoxicity ratio. These findings indicate that small, gluconamide-functionalized silica nanoparticles are highly effective for targeted aPDT, offering a robust strategy to combat AMR.
Towards Designing a Set of Usability and Accessibility Heu-ristics focused on Cognitive Diversity: An Exploratory Case Study with Generative Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Pascual Almenara Afra , Sayago Barrantes Sergio
Published: October 2024

This paper discusses the design and evaluation of a set of heuristics (U+A) to assess the usability and accessibility of interactive systems in terms of cognitive diversity in an integrated way. Method: An analysis of the usability and accessibility aspects that have the greatest impact on people with cognitive disabilities is presented. A set of cognitive usability and accessibility heu-ristics targeted at people with cognitive disabilities is generated with the support of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI). Result: Several interactive systems are evaluated to validate the U+A heuristics. A quantitative classification of the evaluated systems is obtained, i.e., the “U+Aindex”, which reveals the most and least usable and accessible systems for people with cognitive and learning disabilities. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that it is possible to car-ry out a classification of heuristic criteria considering accessibility, usability, and cognitive disa-bility. The results also show that the selection of criteria proposed by GenAI is optimal and that this technology can be used to improve usability and accessibility of interactive systems in a practical way. Yet, further evaluations are needed to support the results of the analyzed proposal.
Social Return on Investment (Sroi) Evaluation of Citizen’s Advice on Prescription: A Whole Systems Approach to Mitigate Poverty and Improve Wellbeing
Authors: Granger Rachel , Hartfiel Ned , Ezeofor Victory , Abba Katharine , Corcoran Rhiannon , Anderson de Cuevas Rachel , Barr Benjamin , Gebremedhin Gebremariam Aregawi , Piroddi Roberta , Mahoney Clare , Gabbay Mark , Edwards Rhiannon Tudor
Published: October 2024

Citizens Advice on Prescription (CAP), a Liverpool (UK) based service, provides welfare advice and link worker social prescribing support to people experiencing and at risk of financial or social hardship. CAP, which receives referrals from healthcare and third sector services, aims to improve service users’ financial security, health, and wellbeing. A mixed-method Social Return on Investment (SROI) analysis was used to evaluate the service. Between May 2022 and November 2023, a subset of service users (n=538) completed the Short Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Survey (SWEMWBS) at baseline and 2-month follow-up. Supporting quantitative and qualitative economic data was also collected (Feb 2023 - Feb 2024) through semi-structured interviews (n=16). Social value changes were generated using the change in SWEMWBS scores and social valuations from the Mental Health Social Value Bank (MHSVB). SROI ratios were calculated from change of social value against service provision costs. The mean service provision cost was £148.66 per person. The overall study reported a positive SROI return of £1: £3.40-£4.69. Results indicate that non-clinical support services, like CAP, can be an effective intervention to address the wider determinants of health and wellbeing.
KANT’IN CUMHURİYETÇİ İDEALİ: DÜZENLEYİCİ AKIL İLKESİ OLARAK SÖZLEŞME VE DEVLET
Authors: Güngör İrmak
Published: October 2024

Türkçe literatürde Immanuel Kant’a olan ilgi genelde onun bilgi ve ahlak felsefeleriyle sınırlı kalmıştır. Hâlbuki ortaya koyduğu tarih ve hukuk felsefeleriyle, aklın kamusal kullanımına yaptığı vurguyla Kant, çağdaş düşüncede de kendisine dönülen bir politika filozofudur. Kant, yaygın olarak bilinenin aksine modernlerin doğal durum ve toplumsal sözleşme tartışmalarına katılmış; elbette bu kavramları kendi eleştirel felsefesinin içerisinde yoğurarak ve politika ile ahlak arasındaki bağı yeniden tesis etmeye çalışarak kullanmıştır. Kant, bir “sözleşme” fikrine ve “devlet hukuku”na olan ihtiyacın ancak aklın a priori idelerinin araştırılmasıyla ortaya çıkarılabileceğini savunmuş; bu kavramları pratik akıldan çıkan düzenleyici ilkeler olarak tanımlamıştır. Buna göre sözleşme ve devlet hukuku kavramlarını varsaymak, a priori yasa koyan saf aklın bir gereği olacaktır. Birey özgürlüğünü her şeyin üzerinde tutarak temele alan bu hukuk doktrini ile Kant, cumhuriyetçi hukuk devletinin kendisine kıyasla sınanacağı akılsal bir ölçüt ortaya koymuştur. Bu çalışmada Kant’ın sözleşme ve devlet hukuku kavramlarını eleştirel projesiyle tutarlı olarak nasıl ele aldığı ortaya konmaya çalışılacaktır.
Technical Challenges and Morbidity Associated With Removal of an IlluminOss Implant From a Humeral Shaft
Authors: Huynh Tony , Dehghan Niloofar
Published: October 2024

Case:

A 77-year-old man experienced acute failure of fixation of his humeral shaft fracture after fixation with IlluminOss photodynamic system stabilization (Photodynamic Bone Stabilization System [PBSS]). Owing to the well-fixed IlluminOss PBSS implant to the humeral intramedullary canal, complete removal was deemed not indicated. Partial implant removal and revision open reduction internal fixation with a proximal humerus plate was performed. However, this was complicated by recalcitrant deep hardware infection that failed multiple surgical debridements, requiring eventual humeral osteotomy to remove the remainder of the infected IlluminOss PBSS implant.

Conclusion:

This is one of the first articles highlighting the technical challenges and morbidity associated with removal of an IlluminOss PBSS.
Long-Term Effects of Three Different Exercise Training Modes on Cardiorespiratory Fitness of Female Flamenco Dancers
Authors: Tekin Demet , Agopyan Ani , Düzgün Irem
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND: It is well established that high-intensity interval training (HIIT) is effective in enhancing athletes’ performance and improving the health of recreational exercisers. However, there is a dearth of comprehensive recommendations regarding the integration of HIIT into
the exercise routines of flamenco dancers. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate how three different 10-week training programs—including traditional flamenco training (control group, CG) alone or combined with HIIT or muscular strength and endurance training (MSET)—impact the
cardiovascular fitness (maximal oxygen consumption, VO2max) of female flamenco dancers, specifically focusing on the effectiveness of additional training methods. METHODS: A group of 33 trained female flamenco dancers was randomly divided into three groups: HIIT (n=11), MSET (n=11), and a
control group (CG, n=11). VO2max was assessed through breath-by-breath gas analysis during an incremental treadmill test. All participants, including the control group, engaged in uniform choreography sessions at moderate intensity (55–60% of reserve heart rate [HRR], 50 min/day, twice
a week). In addition, the HIIT and MSET groups underwent supplementary training sessions twice a week (40 min/day) for 10 weeks, utilizing different techniques and intensities (HIIT: 80–90% of HRmax; MSET: 55–75% of HRmax). RESULTS: A statistically significant 19.7% improvement
in aerobic capacity (VO2max) was observed in the HIIT group (p ≤ 0.05), with large effect sizes (ES) compared to MSET (p=0.011; ES = 2.423) and CG (p=0.034; ES=1.664). CONCLUSION: These findings indicate that HIIT training, when integrated with dance lessons, enhances aerobic capacity more
effectively compared to traditional dance training alone or traditional dance training supplemented with MSET. Therefore, integrating HIIT into dance training programs as supplementary training may be particularly effective in improving aerobic capacity for female flamenco dancers.
Endoscopic Radiofrequency Ablation for Sacroiliac Joint Pain: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Wu Bing-Qi , Chen Da-Yue , Alvin Lee Kai Xing , Hsiao Pang-Hsuan , Lin Chia-Yu , Chen Michael Jian-Wen , Li Ling-Yi , Lai Chien-Ying , Chen Hsien-Te , Tseng Chun
Published: October 2024

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of endoscopically visualized radiofrequency for treating sacroiliac joint pain.Methods: The study protocol was preregistered on INPLASY (INPLASY202450011). A systematic search was carried out across multiple databases, including PubMed, Embase, Cochrane CENTRAL, and Web of Science, from their inception until May 6, 2024. Peer-reviewed studies on human participants with low back pain diagnosed with sacroiliac joint pain and treated with endoscopically visualized radiofrequency ablation (RFA) were included. The study focused on evaluating changes in the visual analogue scale (VAS) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) from before the commencement of endoscopically visualized radiofrequency to postoperation. The quantitative syntheses employed a random-effects model, with effect sizes reported using the mean difference. Subgroup analyses were conducted based on 6-month and 12-month postoperative time points.Results: Four studies were ultimately included in this meta-analysis. Three of the studies were case series, while one was a retrospective cohort study. The mean difference of VAS scores between the preoperative and 6-month and 12-month postoperative assessments was -5.60 and -5.96, respectively. The mean difference of the ODI between preoperative and 6-month and 12-month postoperative assessments was -21.03 and -23.67, respectively. A subgroup analysis of both outcome measurement indices at the 2 follow-up time points did not reveal any statistically significant differences.Conclusion: Endoscopically visualized RFA demonstrates potential as a treatment modality for sacroiliac joint pain; however, there is currently insufficient evidence to substantiate its long-term efficacy.
Unilateral Biportal Endoscopic Decompression for Thoracic Spinal Stenosis Secondary to Ossification of the Ligamentum Flavum
Authors: Park Cheol Woong , Santipas Borriwat
Published: October 2024

Ossification of the ligamentum flavum (OLF) in the thoracic spine is a cause of thoracic myelopathy that is more commonly found in East Asian populations (Koreans, Japanese, Chinese) than in others. Early diagnosis and sufficient surgical decompression can improve the functional prognosis for thoracic OLF. Surgical decompression is necessary and should be done as soon as the symptoms develop. There is a wide range of possible treatments, from standard open laminectomy to endoscopic decompression surgery. This video demonstrates the least invasive technique of decompressive laminectomy with bilateral decompression and removal of thoracic OLF through unilateral biportal endoscopic spinal surgery. The authors present the case of an 81-year-old male patient who presented with bilateral lower extremity weakness, numbness, pain, and ataxia. Magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography scans of the whole spine showed the presence of OLF with severe spinal canal stenosis and a cord signal change at the T9–10 level. He underwent biportal endoscopic decompression and removal of thoracic OLF at T9–10. On the discharge day (postoperative day 7), motor power and pain had significantly improved. He could stand and independently ambulate with a walker.
Biportal Endoscopic Lumbar Ponte Osteotomy for Kyphosis: A Technical Note
Authors: Moon Kihyun , Sun Seung Deok , Kim Won Joong
Published: October 2024

Biportal endoscopic lumbar Ponte osteotomy (BELPO) is an innovative technique for correcting kyphotic deformities. Unlike the original technique, which maintains an intact anterior column, BELPO involves the endoscopic release of the anterior elements in addition to the endoscopic resection of the posterior elements in interbody fusion. BELPO is performed using unilateral biportal endoscopy with the patient in a prone position. First, a small incision is made in the midline over the interspinous gap. Through this gap, a generous portion of the spinous processes and interspinous ligament is removed. Using this incision as both the viewing and working portal, complete facetectomy and partial laminectomy are performed. Posterior compression is then applied to achieve the desired lordosis. Pedicle screws are fixed with cement augmentation. A 71-year-old female patient presented with low back pain and positive sagittal imbalance. She had a rigid posttraumatic kyphosis at L2–3 due to an old compression fracture at L3. After BELPO, the kyphosis at L2–3 improved from 21º to 2º. BELPO is a promising novel method of minimally invasive deformity correction, offering particular advantages for frail, osteoporotic patients.
Contralateral Sublaminar Approach in Lumbar Spine With Unilateral Biportal Endoscopy
Authors: de Oliveira Rafael Garcia , Park Don Young
Published: October 2024

Unilateral biportal endoscopy (UBE) can be used to treat common lumbar pathologies, such as synovial facet cysts, foraminal disc herniations, and foraminal stenosis via a contralateral sublaminar approach. Due to the ultra-minimally invasive technique, UBE can reduce damage to anatomical structures, thereby reducing postoperative pain and allowing faster recovery. The patient is placed prone on a Wilson frame or bolsters. Fluoroscopy is used to identify the midline and medial pedicle line in the anterior-posterior projection. Spinal needles can aid to identifying portals’ trajectory in the lateral fluoroscopic projection. The procedure is performed via 2 separate portal incisions. The endoscope is introduced through the viewing portal and the surgical instruments through the working portal. Soft tissue dissector is used to create a working area over the spinous process-lamina junction. Bony shaving and drilling start at the target area and continue medially underneath the base of the spinous process until the midline and contralateral ligamentum flavum are identified. Contralateral ligamentum flavum is excised, exposing thecontralateral thecal sac, traversing nerve root, and lateral recess. The contralateral disc space, annulus, and superior articulating process are then identified and the offending pathology can be addressed under direct visualization. Meticulous hemostasis and close attention to outflow should be maintained to reduce the risk of complications. The steps of this procedure closely resemble those of traditional microscopic “over-the-top” techniques, including the surgical instruments used through the working portal. In this video, authors present the surgical technique of the contralateral sublaminar approach in the lumbar spine with UBE.
Interlaminar Approach in the Lumbar Spine
Authors: Kim Dongkyu , Park Jeong-Yoon
Published: October 2024

Herein, we describe the surgical techniques of endoscopic interlaminar approach in the lumbar spine through a video presentation of cases involving 3 patients. In every procedure using the interlaminar approach, the lower margin of the lamina should be first identified and used as a surgical landmark. Laminectomy with drilling begins from the lower margin of the lamina and continues upward along the ligamentum flavum. The laminectomy ends when the drill meets the midline cleft of the ligamentum flavum. Once the midline cleft has been detected, an additional bony work-up is performed to detach the lateral and lower margins of the ligamentum flavum. Then, the ligamentum flavum is removed and the thecal sac is exposed. Full exposure of the lateral margin of the thecal sac and ipsilateral traversing root is required. For cases that require contralateral decompression, an additional contralateral bony work-up and decompression of the contralateral traversing root are performed. Decompression of the contralateral exiting root can also be performed with the advantage of a wide endoscopic view angle. Retraction of the thecal sac and traversing root exposes the surface of the disc, and discectomy can be performed. Before the termination of surgery, surgeons should always confirm sufficient decompression of the nerve roots and hemostasis.
Transforaminal Endoscopic Lateral Recess Decompression
Authors: Kanda Yutaro , Soeda Saori , Mio Ryota , Makiyama Fumiaki , Morimoto Masatoshi , Tezuka Fumitake , Yamashita Kazuta , Sairyo Koichi
Published: October 2024

Transforaminal full-endoscopic spine surgery (TF-FESS) is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that can be performed with only an 8-mm skin incision under local anesthesia. TF-FESS has been used to treat not only lumbar disc herniation, but also lumbar spinal stenosis. This paper describes transforaminal full-endoscopic lateral recess decompression. The best indication for this procedure is unilateral recess stenosis accompanied by transversing nerve root radiculopathy, with or without exiting nerve root radiculopathy. The skin entry point is about 6–8 cm from the midline, and the precise point is determined by preoperative planning. After local anesthesia, an 8-mm skin incision is made, and the cannula is placed on the surface of the superior articular process (SAP). Next, the SAP is resected from the pedicle to the tip using a high-speed drill to expose the facet joint space and flavum by the hand-down technique (gradually changing hand position to be downwards and moving the cannula inwards). After removing the flavum, the completely decompressed transversing nerve root can be clearly visualized and confirmed under fluoroscopy. Two hours postoperatively, patients can walk without restriction. Because this procedure requires the complete resection of the ventral side of the facet, it is also called full-endoscopic ventral facetectomy.
Transforaminal Endoscopic Lumbar Discectomy for Left L3–4 Extraforaminal Disc Herniation with Upward Migration Under Local Anesthesia
Authors: Kavishwar Rohit Akshay , Setiwan Dimas Rahman , Liang Yihao , Pedraza Maria , Kim Jin-Sung
Published: October 2024

A 50-year-old man presented with chief complaints of low back pain and left lower limb radiculopathy. He was limping due to excruciating pain on walking, and his visual analogue scale score for left leg pain was 8 out of 10. He had these symptoms for 2 months after he fell down from his bike, with recent aggravation of pain. On examination, his left hip flexion was grade 4/5 and left knee extension was grade 3/5, with dysesthesia and numbness along the left anterolateral thigh. The patient underwent transforaminal endoscopic lumbar discectomy) under local anesthesia with an excellent outcome. This video presents a step-by-step explanation of how to perform transforaminal lumbar discectomy.
Heterogeneous 2D Memristor Array and Silicon Selector for Compute-in-Memory Hardware in Convolution Neural Networks
Authors: Ang Kah-Wee , Li Sifan , Jain Samarth , Zheng Haofei , Li Lingqi , Fong Xuanyao
Published: October 2024

Memristor crossbar arrays (CBAs) based on two-dimensional (2D) materials have emerged as a potential solution to overcome the limitations of energy consumption and latency associated with the conventional von Neumann architecture. However, current 2D memristor CBAs encounter specific challenges such as limited array size, high sneak path current, and lack of integration with peripheral circuits for hardware compute-in-memory (CIM) systems. In this work, we demonstrate a novel hardware CIM system that leverages the heterogeneous integration of scalable 2D hafnium diselenide (HfSe2) memristors and silicon (Si) selectors, as well as the integration between memristive CBAs and peripheral control-sensing circuits. The integrated 32 × 32 one-selector-one-memristor (1S1R) array effectively mitigates sneak current, exhibiting a high yield (89%) with notable uniformity. The integrated CBA demonstrates exceptional improvement of energy efficiency and response time comparable to state-of-the-art 2D materials-based memristors. To take advantage of low latency devices for achieving low energy systems, time-domain sensing circuits with the CBA are used, of which the power consumption surpasses that of analog-to-digital converters (ADCs) by 2.5 folds. Moreover, the implemented full-hardware binary convolution neural network (CNN) achieves remarkable accuracy (97.5%) in a pattern recognition task. Additionally, analog computing and in-built activation functions are demonstrated within the system, further augmenting energy efficiency. This silicon-compatible heterogeneous integration approach, along with the energy-efficient CIM system, presents a promising hardware solution for artificial intelligence (AI) applications.
A Transfer Learning Approach to Classify InsectDiversity Based on Explainable AI
Authors: Hasan Md Mahmudul , Shaqib SM , Akter Sharmin , Alo Alaya Parvin , Khushbu Sharun Akter , Tuhin Ohidujjaman
Published: October 2024

This paper suggests an approach to insect identification using transfer learning combined with an explainable artificial intelligence (XAI) technique. Thisstudy represents the importance of incorporating XAI to ensure the reliabilityand trustworthiness of automated insect identification systems. The proposedresearch influences the expanding body of knowledge on advanced AI techniquesfor biological classification, paving the way for future innovations in entomology, agriculture, and ecological monitoring. Transparency and interoperabilitymade possible by the integration of XAI enable a thorough comprehension ofthe decision-making process underlying the model’s predictions. The gradient-weighted class activation mapping, or Grad-CAM, approach is what we employ. Establishing transparency is crucial in fostering confidence in automated systemsand guaranteeing their pragmatic implementation in real-life situations. We proposed the ResNet152v2 model achieving a classification accuracy of 96% on acomprehensive dataset of 4,509 insect images, spanning 9 distinct classes. Thisapproach boosts model performance and reduces the dependency on extensivelabeled datasets.
An easily-prepared superhydrophobic paper promoted by dodecanethiol and its oil-water separation mechanism
Authors: Zhao Hexin , Li Zhenpeng , Meng Yao , Cheng Haoran , Zhang Xingrong
Published: October 2024

With the serious water contamination by frequent oil spill accidents and industrial wastewater emissions, superhydrophobic materials for oil-water separation have attracted considerable attention. In this study, an easily-prepared superhydrophobic paper was provided by using the dip-coating method, which involved depositing dopamine, copper sulfate, and dodecanethiol layer by layer on the surface of the paper to form a dense superhydrophobic surface. The prepared modified paper surface possessed excellent superhydrophobicity with a water contact angle (WCA) of 162° and an oil-water separation efficiency of more than 99% could be reached. After 40 cycles of oil-water separation, the separation efficiency and the water contact angle were still kept more than 95% and 150°, respectively. Additionally, the prepared superhydrophobic paper exhibited good self-cleaning properties and was highly resistant to acid, alkali, salt, and organic solutions. As a result, this study provided a new simple method to prepare functional superhydrophobic materials for oil-water separation.
Greater trophic diversity of soil animal communities under land use and warmer climate
Authors: Zhou Zheng , Eisenhauer Nico , Barnes Andrew , Pollierer Melanie , Jochum Malte , Grass Ingo , Brose Ulrich , Hyodo Fujio , Scheunemann Nicole , Schmidt Olaf , Huang Yuanyuan , Klarner Bernhard , Goncharov Anton , Krause Alena , Korobushkin Daniil , Gorbunova Anastasia , Lyubechanskii Ilya , Tsurikov Sergey , Seeber Julia , Steinwandter Michael , Zryanin Vladimir , Rozanova Oksana , Susanti Winda , Crotty Felicity , Prameswari Di , Li Zhipeng , Melody Carol , Tiunov Alexei , Scheu Stefan , Potapov Anton
Published: October 2024

More than half of all life on Earth lives belowground and regulates a wide range of ecosystem functions via their diverse trophic interactions. However, information on how trophic diversity of soil animals varies across functional groups and major environmental gradients is lacking. Here, we use stable isotope analysis (13C/12C and 15N/14N ratios) of 28 high-rank taxa of soil animals from 343 sites across 15 countries to inspect the variability in trophic diversity across climate regions and land-use types. We found that trophic diversity of soil-animals communities is higher for microbial than for detritus feeders and predators, and increases in agricultural ecosystems compared to woodlands (+38%) and in tropical compared to temperate climates (+53%). The larger trophic diversity was related to both exploration of more diverse basal resources and longer trophic chains, possibly because of greater niche partitioning in resource-limited environments. Overall, this first comprehensive assessment of soil animal trophic diversity highlights that soil animals may broaden their trophic niches under global change, which potentially buffers global-change impacts on ecosystem functions and stability in the short term, while the increased flexibility in foraging may pose risks with long-term biodiversity and ecosystem health implications.
Observational Study of the Effect of ESFT Approach on Cross-Culture Competency Teaching for Young PGY Physicians
Authors: Chen Chih-Hung , Chen Te-Chuan , Lin Chi-Wei , Lin Yu-Chih , Cheng Ya-Hui , Pi-Chi Han , Chen Wei-Chuan
Published: October 2024

Background
The increasing multicultural demands in healthcare, driven by globalization and the growing population of new immigrants, have highlighted the need for improved cross-cultural competence among medical professionals. This study aims to investigate the impact of a cross-cultural competence course, based on the ESFT (Explanation, Social and Environmental Factors, Fears and Concerns, Therapeutic Contracting) model, on young physicians' cultural sensitivity and related competencies within Taiwan’s healthcare system.
Methods
Forty young PGY physicians enrolled in this study and ESFT teaching model was implemented. By using a mixed-methods approach, which combines both quantitative and qualitative surveys allows for a comprehensive evaluation of the course's effectiveness.
Results
It showed that significant improvements in cultural sensitivity, multicultural perceptions, multicultural competencies, and cultural care competence, particularly among male physicians and those with over two years of clinical experience. However, female participants and those with less clinical experience did not demonstrate significant improvement. The study identifies regional cultural diversity as a potential factor contributing to the observed differences in competence development. Furthermore, qualitative feedback emphasized the importance of real-life clinical scenarios in enhancing learning outcomes.
Conclusion
The study's findings underscore the need for targeted, adaptable cross-cultural education programs that account for gender and clinical experience differences. Future research should focus on long-term effects and diversified teaching strategies to optimize cross-cultural competence training in medical education. This approach could improve physician-patient communication and healthcare quality in increasingly multicultural societies.
Autonomic Stress Responses in Oral Examination Simulations: Neuroscientific Insights from Comparing Peer-Led and Lecturer-Led Approaches
Authors: Gellisch Morris , Morosan-Puopolo Gabriela , Bablok Martin , Schäfer Thorsten , Brand-Saberi Beate
Published: October 2024

This mixed-methods study investigated the impact of simulated oral examinations on inducing neurocardiac stress in medical students, integrating physiological measurements, quantitative assessments, and qualitative feedback. Ninety-five students participated, with heart rate variability (HRV) markers such as RMSSD, pNN50, SDNN, and LF/HF ratios used to evaluate stress responses. Both lecturer-led and peer-led simulations significantly reduced HRV markers, indicating heightened sympathetic activation and reduced parasympathetic activity. In lecturer-led simulations, RMSSD showed significant reductions (t = 8.27, p < .001; t = 9.38, p < .001), paralleled in peer-led sessions (t = 4.47, p < .001; t = 4.97, p < .001). The LF/HF ratio significantly increased in lecturer-led exams (z=-2.69, p = 0.007), while peer-led simulations exhibited a more moderate response. Students' perceived competence and confidence significantly improved post-simulation (lecturer-led: t=-8.41, p < .001; student-led: t=-5.82, p < .001), and test anxiety significantly decreased. In the follow-up assessment conducted after the actual exams at the semester's end, 94.85% of students reported that the simulations were helpful in preparing for their final exams, aiding in reducing stress and enhancing performance. These findings highlight the potential of peer-led simulations as a resource-efficient alternative for fostering student resilience and coping under exam stress, though further exploration is needed to fully understand the nuanced autonomic responses in different settings.
Unveiling challenges faced by deaf parents in engaging in parenting programs: Results from international deaf awareness week and International Day of Sign Language celebrations in Uganda
Authors: Ikwara Asher Emmanuel , Kengonzi Prossy , Isiko Isaac
Published: October 2024

Background
This study addressed the dearth of research on parenting programs for deaf parents, focusing on Uganda's context. With a qualitative approach during International Deaf Awareness events, it explored the challenges faced by Uganda's 1.3 million deaf population, emphasizing the need for culturally and linguistically appropriate initiatives to bridge existing gaps and support deaf parents effectively.
Methods
This qualitative study, conducted during Uganda's International Deaf Awareness events, explored challenges faced by deaf parents engaging with parenting programs. Purposively selecting participants, the research used in-depth interviews, employing thematic content analysis for data interpretation. Ethical considerations, including informed consent and confidentiality, were paramount. Reflexivity was acknowledged to address researchers' biases.
Results
The thematic content analysis of challenges faced by deaf parents in accessing parenting programs revealed significant barriers. Prominent issues included unemployment, financial constraints, societal discrimination, limited awareness of specialized programs, educational barriers, geographical inaccessibility, cultural factors, lack of sign language skills, stigma, and dissatisfaction with existing programs. These multifaceted challenges underscored the need for tailored interventions to support deaf parents and address the unique requirements of raising deaf children.
Conclusion
The study during Deaf Awareness Week in Uganda revealed global challenges for parents of deaf children, emphasizing socioeconomic, societal, and awareness-related barriers.
Dynamic risk and protective factors in mentally disordered offenders: forensic psychiatry treatment monitoring, prison release and length of stay
Authors: Weber Kerstin , Magnenat Lena , Morier Sandrine , Menu Christophe , Bertschy Philippe , Herrmann François R. , Giannakopoulos Panteleimon
Published: October 2024

Background
The reduction of violence risk and crime recidivism is the core marker of progress in forensic psychiatry treatment for mentally disordered offenders, and commonly used to decide prison release. While dynamic risk is expected to relate to treatment progress, static risk is expected to predict prison discharge. Integrated risk-protection assessment is thought to facilitate prediction of treatment outcome.
Methods
In a two-year prospective observational cohort study using a repeated measures design, we monitored treatment as usual induced changes in violence and protective factors, in 117 offenders of a medium-security forensic clinic in Switzerland. Mixed-effects and multinomial logistic regression models were used to predict longitudinal risk and protection evolution, length of stay, and discharge locations.
Results
Forensic psychiatry treatment was indeed associated with decrease in dynamic risk and enhanced protection, contrary to static risk. After 18–24 months of treatment, protective factors counterbalanced risk factors. For risk, both a numeric scale and a structured professional judgement approach equally showed significant improvement over time. For protection and integrated risk-protection, structured professional judgement ratings failed to show significant treatment-related change. Discharge to low-security psychiatry wards was predicted only by favorable baseline risk, protection, and integrated risk-protection, but not by their treatment-related evolution. Longer length of stay was predicted by higher baseline total risk only.
Conclusions
Study results confirm the need to distinguish dynamic from static risk in forensic psychiatric treatment monitoring, and to include integrated risk-protection measures. Treatment outcome (discharge and length) is predicted by the offenders’ baseline risk profile, but not by their treatment related risk and protection evolution. A structured professional judgment approach in risk and protection assessment leads to different longitudinal results than the use of numeric scale scores.
A Cost-Effective Wireless Diagnostic Instrument for On-Line Characterization of PV Strings
Authors: APPANA NAGA SURESH , BASA NAVEEN , Dusarlapudi Kalyan
Published: October 2024

The I-V curve tracer is a diagnostic instrument for assessing the I-V characteristics of PV strings. It is extensively utilized to gauge power generation efficiency and detect potential issues within PV strings. To enhance the precision and accuracy of data collection, various I-V tracer techniques have been devised. This article presents an innovative and cost-effective Online I-V Tracer Tool (OIVTT) designed specifically for high-power PV strings, The system operates online, allowing I-V tracing without taking the plant offline, while meeting the load's power requirements during the process. The proposed system utilizes an IGBT as a variable load, incorporates wireless data acquisition and Kodular-based mobile App communication module. The embedded control algorithm ensures equal spacing of data points throughout the I-V curve, maintaining a relative standard deviation (RSD) of less than 10%. Comparative analysis between the experimental curve and the standard mathematical model demonstrates the OIVTT’s ability to track real-time performance variations, with an overall deviation below 2%. These results emphasize the OIVTT’s reliability, accuracy, and its potential as a cost-effective alternative to commercial I-V tracers for diagnostics and maintenance in PV systems.
Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation in Children with Pulmonary Atresia and Intact Ventricular Septum: Mortality and Associated Outcomes
Authors: Flores Saul , Loomba Rohit S. , Mastropietro Christopher W. , Cheung Eva , Amula Venugopal , Radman Monique , Kwiatkowski David , Puente Bao Nguyen , Buckley Jason R. , Allen Kiona Y. , Karki Karan B. , Chiwane Saurabh , Cashen Katherine , Piggott Kurt , Kapileshwarkar Yamini , Gowda Narayana , Badheka Aditya , Raman Rahul , Zang Huaiyu , Costello John M. , Iliopoulos Ilias
Published: October 2024

Introduction
Data on outcomes of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) are limited in patients with pulmonary atresia intact ventricular septum (PAIVS). The objective of this study was to describe the use of ECMO and the associated outcomes in patients with PAIVS.
Methods
We retrospectively reviewed neonates with PAIVS who received ECMO between 2009–2019 in 19 US hospitals affiliated with the Collaborative Research for the Pediatric Cardiac Intensive Care Society (CoRe-PCICS). Patients who received ECMO were compared to those who did not and patients on ECMO who died were compared to those who survived by bivariate analysis and multivariable logistic regression. The predictive ability of a risk score for inpatient mortality (using beta-coefficients) was assessed by receiver operator curve analysis.
Results
Of 295 identified patients, 32 (11%) were supported with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Of these, 15 (46%) experienced mortality. A higher left pulmonary artery z-score (beta coefficient 0.72) and the presence of ventriculocoronary connections by cardiac catheterization (beta coefficient 1.25) was associated with an increased risk of ECMO (p-value < 0.01). The resulting risk score had an area under the curve of 0.71 (p-value 0.03) for prediction of need for ECMO.
Conclusion
In a multicenter cohort of patients with PAIVS, 11% received ECMO. Of those supported with ECMO, 46% experienced inpatient mortality. A higher left pulmonary artery z-score and the presence of ventriculocoronary connections appear to be risk factors for use of ECMO.
Productivity and Soil Moisture Optimization for Vegetable Crops in drylands: Reduced Runoff Farming with Sensor-Based Irrigation Solutions
Authors: B Vinutha B , N M N Thimmegowda M , G VASANTHI B. , . MUDALAGIRIYAPPA , P MALLIKARJUNA GOWDA A. , N GEETHA K , HUGGI LINGARAJ , NINGOJI SANTHOSH
Published: October 2024

A polyhouse experiment (2 year) was conducted at AICRP for Dryland Agriculture during 2021/22 and 2022/23, to evaluate the impact of sensor driven irrigation levels on yield, yield attributes, irrigation efficiency and economic returns of broccoli, capsicum, pole bean and cherry tomato. The experiments were laid out separately in RCBD with six replications for each crop and wireless soil moisture sensors were installed with the purpose for collecting real time soil moisture content and controlling the irrigation levels (75, 50 and 25% ASM) via smart phone and surface irrigation as control. The two years study found that, sensor irrigation scheduling at 75% ASM recorded significantly higher average yield of broccoli (26.05 t ha− 1), capsicum (48.59 t ha− 1), pole bean (37.08 t ha− 1) and cherry tomato (42.02 t ha− 1). The mean irrigation production efficiency of broccoli (84.98 kg/ha-mm), capsicum (102.25 kg/ha-mm), pole bean (114.27 kg/ha-mm) and cherry tomato (88.41 kg/ha-mm) was higher at 75% ASM. Regression analysis revealed the polynomial relationship between the average quantity of water applied and yield of broccoli, capsicum, pole bean and cherry tomato. This relationship, with R2 values ranging from 0.73 to 0.83, can be effectively utilized to optimize irrigation water distribution among the crops both individually and collectively. Scheduling of irrigation at 75% ASM, resulted substantially higher net returns of Rs. 6,55,899 ha− 1 for broccoli, Rs. 9,69,689 ha− 1 for capsicum, Rs. 11,07,535 ha− 1 for pole bean and Rs. 5,79,865 ha− 1 for cherry tomato.
Dominant contribution of Asgard archaea to eukaryogenesis
Authors: Koonin Eugene , Tobiasson Victor , Luo Jacob , Wolf Yuri
Published: October 2024

The origin of eukaryotes is one of the key problems in evolutionary biology 1,2. The demonstration that the Last Eukaryotic Common Ancestor (LECA) already contained the mitochondrion, an endosymbiotic organelle derived from an alphaproteobacterium 3, and the discovery of Asgard archaea, the closest archaeal relatives of eukaryotes 4-8, inform and constrain evolutionary scenarios of eukaryogenesis 9. We undertook a comprehensive analysis of the origins of the core eukaryotic genes tracing to the LECA within a rigorous statistical framework centered around evolutionary hypotheses testing using constrained phylogenetic trees. The results reveal dominant contributions of Asgard archaea to the origin of most of the conserved eukaryotic functional systems and pathways. A limited contribution from Alphaproteobacteria was identified, primarily relating to the energy transformation systems and Fe-S cluster biogenesis, whereas ancestry from other bacterial phyla was scattered across the eukaryotic functional landscape, with almost no consistent trends. These findings suggest a model of eukaryogenesis in which key features of eukaryotic cell organization evolved in the Asgard ancestor, followed by the capture of the Alphaproteobacterial endosymbiont, and augmented by numerous but sporadic horizontal acquisition of genes from other bacteria both before and after endosymbiosis.
Haematological and Histopathological analysis of Broilers Fed with African Star Apple (Chrysophllum albidum)Additive
Authors: Ogbu Joy Chinyere , Prince Ogbu Chukwuemeka , Annune P.A. , Patrick O.O. , R.A Jimba
Published: October 2024

The total white blood cell concentration was significantly higher in treatment group 5 (p < 0.05) compared to other groups including the control (group 1). There was no significant difference in the red blood cell concertation in all the treatment groups. The hemoglobin concentration was significantly higher in groups 3 and 4 (p < 0.05) compared to other groups. The percentage hematocrit values in group 4 was significantly higher than other group (p < 0.05). The mean corpuscular hemoglobin concertation was significantly higher in group 4 and lowest in group 5 (p < 0.05). The platelets was significantly higher in group 5 and lowest in group 2 (p < 0.05). There was however no significant difference in the mean corpuscular volume in all treatment groups (p > 0.05).
The result of the organ weight indicated that the liver weight increased significantly in treatment groups compared to control group (p < 0.05). There was however no significant difference in the weight of the spleen, heart, lungs and kidney in treatment and control groups (p > 0.05).
The result of the histopathological analysis indicates that no lesion was observed in the heart, liver, kidney and spleen of the broilers in both the control and experimental groups