bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High-Density Lipoprotein Correlates with Cognitive Functioning in Schizophrenic Women
Authors: Staniek Maria , Kapelski Pawel , Zakowicz Przemyslaw , Rajewska-Rager Aleksandra , Wasicka-Przewozna Karolina , Skibinska Maria
Published: July 2024

(1) Background: Schizophrenia is a chronic and progressive neuropsychiatric illness. Apart from positive and negative symptoms, 98% of the population diagnosed with schizophrenia have impaired cognitive functioning, which significantly influences the quality of life. The correlation between lipids and cognitive functioning has been well established. Our study aimed to investigate correlations between cognitive functions, the severity of schizophrenia symptoms, and lipid profiles. (2) Methods: Fifty-two women diagnosed with schizophrenia participated in this study. Cognitive functioning was measured using the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST). The Positive and Negative Symptom Scale (PANSS) was used. The serum lipid profile, including low-density lipoproteins (LDLs), high-density lipoproteins (HDLs), and triglycerides was measured. (3) Results: Better cognitive functions were associated with normal HDL levels, while low HDL levels correlated with worse WSCT scores. Only the PANSS negative subscale showed a correlation with HDL levels. Correlations with chronicity of schizophrenia and the patient’s age with poorer cognitive functions, but not with symptom severity, were detected. Early/late age at onset did not influence WSCT scores. (4) Conclusions: Our results suggest high HDL levels might be a protective factor against cognitive impairment. The influences of age and illness duration also play a vital role in cognitive performance.
The Clinical Impact of Real-Time fMRI Neurofeedback on Emotion Regulation: A Systematic Review
Authors: Tschentscher Nadja , Tafelmaier Julia C. , Woll Christian F. J. , Pogarell Oliver , Maywald Maximilian , Vierl Larissa , Breitenstein Katrin , Karch Susanne
Published: July 2024

Emotion dysregulation has long been considered a key symptom in multiple psychiatric disorders. Difficulties in emotion regulation have been associated with neural dysregulation in fronto-limbic circuits. Real-time fMRI-based neurofeedback (rt-fMRI-NFB) has become increasingly popular as a potential treatment for emotional dysregulation in psychiatric disorders, as it is able to directly target the impaired neural circuits. However, the clinical impact of these rt-fMRI-NFB protocols in psychiatric populations is still largely unknown. Here we provide a comprehensive overview of primary studies from 2010 to 2023 that used rt-fMRI-NFB to target emotion regulation. We assessed 41 out of 4001 original studies for methodological quality and risk of bias and synthesised concerning the frequency of significant rt-fMRI-NFB-related effects on the neural and behaviour level. Successful modulation of brain activity was reported in between 25 and 50 percent of study samples, while neural effects in clinical samples were more diverse than in healthy samples. Interestingly, the frequency of rt-fMRI-NFB-related behavioural improvement was over 75 percent in clinical samples, while healthy samples showed behavioural improvements between 0 and 25 percent. Concerning clinical subsamples, rt-fMRI-NFB-related behavioural improvement was observed in up to 100 percent of major depressive disorder (MDD) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) samples. Substance use samples showed behavioural benefits ranging between 50 and 75 percent. Neural effects appeared to be less frequent than behavioural improvements: most neural outcomes ranged between 25 and 50 percent for MDD and substance use and between 0 and 25 percent for PTSD. Using multiple individualised regions of interest (ROIs) for rt-fMRI-NFB training resulted in more frequent behavioural benefits than rt-fMRI-NFB solely based on the amygdala or the prefrontal cortex. While a significant improvement in behavioural outcomes was reported in most clinical studies, the study protocols were heterogeneous, which limits the current evaluation of rt-fMRI-NFB as a putative treatment for emotional dysregulation.
The Correlation between Motor Skill Proficiency and Academic Performance in High School Students
Authors: Ramos-Campo Domingo Jesús , Clemente-Suárez Vicente Javier
Published: July 2024

The intricate relationship between physical health and cognitive development has been a focal point of multidisciplinary research, suggesting that motor skill proficiency could influence academic outcomes. This study aimed to investigate the correlation between motor control, mobility, stability—measured by the Functional Movement Screen (FMS)—and academic performance among high school students. Conducted with 201 participants from a public high school in Spain, this descriptive non-experimental research divided students into high and low academic performance groups based on their average grade scores, with the median used as the criterion for distinction. The FMS was utilized to assess fundamental motor skills, and academic performance was verified across mathematics, language, science, and physical education subjects. The findings revealed a significant positive relationship between the FMS scores and academic achievement (r = 0.691; p < 0.001), indicating that students with higher motor skill proficiency had higher academic achievement. This correlation persisted across the various subjects, highlighting the potential benefits of integrating physical education and motor skill development into educational strategies. The study’s results suggest that educational policies should advocate for comprehensive physical education programs to foster both physical well-being and academic improvement, thereby promoting a holistic educational model that enhances student performance across disciplines.
Tourism in Historic Urban Areas: Construction of Cultural Heritage Corridor Based on Minimum Cumulative Resistance and Gravity Model—A Case Study of Tianjin, China
Authors: Wang Qian , Yang Chen , Wang Jianghua , Tan Lifeng
Published: July 2024

The effective protection and utilization of historical and cultural heritage in urban and rural areas are increasingly gaining public attention. Constructing a continuous and complete heritage spatial network is an important means for achieving holistic protection and utilization of heritage, and it is also a crucial approach to enhancing the overall connectivity of regional culture. How to construct a cultural heritage corridor is of great significance to the comprehensive protection of cultural heritage in historic urban areas. This study takes the cultural heritage of Tianjin’s historical urban areas as an example, uses the Minimum Cumulative Resistance (MCR) and Gravity Model (GM) to construct a cultural heritage corridor, and evaluates its suitability. This research enriches the theory of heritage conservation, aims to enhance the connectivity and integrity of cultural heritage, and provides a new perspective for the integrated development of regional culture and tourism in the process of activation and utilization.
Theoretical Analysis of the Plastic Property for Equal Angle Sections Subjected to Axial Force and Biaxial Bending
Authors: Sun Yun , Song Da , Cai Qi , Liu Yangbing , Sun Shuxuan , Yang Yuting
Published: July 2024

To fully harness the design development potential of plastic angle sections, this study employs a theoretical analysis approach to examine the plastic behavior of equal angle sections subjected to axial force and biaxial bending. Based on the simplified angle section results, the full plasticity correlation equations were derived. Subsequently, section shape coefficients were computed. Finally, a methodology for calculating the plastic development coefficients of angle sections was explored. The findings indicate that the full plasticity correlation equations lack the necessary safety margins in designs. Notably, the angle sections possess a greater plastic development capacity along the weak axis compared with the strong axis. It is advisable, for both regular-size and large-size angle sections, to consistently adopt the plastic development coefficients in designs as follows: γu = 1.05 for the strong axis and γv = 1.15 for the weak axis, thereby addressing the shortcomings of the specification in design.
E-Commerce Cross-Border and Domestic Dynamics: Decision Tree and Spatial Insights on Seller Origin Impact
Authors: Grishchenko Natalia
Published: July 2024

Despite the cross-border availability of almost all goods and services online due to global Internet access, the domestic origin of sellers remains significant. This study examines the preferences for domestic versus cross-border goods and services in online purchases in the EU online market from 2020 to 2023. We use quantitative methods including ordinary least squares (OLS), decision trees, and spatial autocorrelation analysis. We find significant effects of currency, language(s), and Internet use on domestic online purchases, while cross-border online purchases are further influenced by prices and urbanization. Our analysis reveals patterns based on the origin of the seller: domestic, intra-EU, or non-EU seller. There is a strong preference for electronic goods and services, regardless of the seller’s origin, while physical goods show a decreasing preference from domestic to intra-EU and non-EU sellers. Limited geographical effects and spatial patterns in online retailing were found, with a trend towards domestic localization. These differences in e-commerce by seller origin are primarily driven by country-specific characteristics (language(s), currencies) rather than geographic distance. The variation in the purchase of goods and services also depends on their physical and electronic form, that is, digital ordering and/or digital delivery. The expansion of e-commerce and the importance of country-specific characteristics require the development of standards to measure these influences.
B7H4 Role in Solid Cancers: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Dawidowicz Miriam , Kot Anna , Mielcarska Sylwia , Psykała Katarzyna , Kula Agnieszka , Waniczek Dariusz , Świętochowska Elżbieta
Published: July 2024

Anti-cancer immunotherapies entirely changed the therapeutic approach to oncological patients. However, despite the undeniable success of anti-PD-1, PD-L1, and CTLA-4 antibody treatments, their effectiveness is limited either by certain types of malignancies or by the arising problem of cancer resistance. B7H4 (aliases B7x, B7H4, B7S1, VTCN1) is a member of a B7 immune checkpoint family with a distinct expression pattern from classical immune checkpoint pathways. The growing amount of research results seem to support the thesis that B7H4 might be a very potent therapeutic target. B7H4 was demonstrated to promote tumour progression in immune “cold” tumours by promoting migration, proliferation of tumour cells, and cancer stem cell persistence. B7H4 suppresses T cell effector functions, including inflammatory cytokine production, cytolytic activity, proliferation of T cells, and promoting the polarisation of naïve CD4 T cells into induced Tregs. This review aimed to summarise the available information about B7H4, focusing in particular on clinical implications, immunological mechanisms, potential strategies for malignancy treatment, and ongoing clinical trials.
Management of Skin Toxicities in Cancer Treatment: An Australian/New Zealand Perspective
Authors: Ladwa Rahul , Fogarty Gerald , Chen Peggy , Grewal Gurpreet , McCormack Chris , Mar Victoria , Kerob Delphine , Khosrotehrani Kiarash
Published: July 2024

Cancer systemic therapeutics and radiotherapy are often associated with dermatological toxicities that may reduce patients’ quality of life and impact their course of cancer treatment. These toxicities cover a wide range of conditions that can be complex to manage with increasing severity. This review provides details on twelve common dermatological toxicities encountered during cancer treatment and offers measures for their prevention and management, particularly in the Australian/New Zealand context where skincare requirements may differ to other regions due to higher cumulative sun damage caused by high ambient ultraviolet (UV) light exposure. Given the frequency of these dermatological toxicities, a proactive phase is envisaged where patients can actively try to prevent skin toxicities.
Novel Starch-Modified NiCrMn-LDH-Based Composite for Photocatalytic Degradation of Reactive Orange 13
Authors: Usman Muhammad , Taj Muhammad Babar , Almasoudi Afaf , Baamer Doaa F. , Ali Omar Makram , Khan Muhammad Imran , Bibi Ismat , Rehman Mobeen Ur , Rasheed Rabia , Raheel Ahmad , Lashari Mushtaq Hussain , Shanableh Abdallah , Fernandez-Garcia Javier
Published: July 2024

Water pollution has become a great challenge today. To address this problem regarding wastewater treatment by removing toxic synthetic dyes from wastewater, this research focused on the synthesis of a novel starch-modified NiCrMn-layered double hydroxide composite through the coprecipitation method and applied it as a photocatalyst for the degradation of reactive orange 13 dye. The synthesized photocatalyst was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET), point of zero charges (PZC), dynamic light scattering (DLS), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and Zeta potential techniques. These techniques revealed different characteristics of photocatalysts, like surface and structural properties. According to BET analysis, the final composite had 2.5 × 102 m2/g BET-specific surface area with a 45.56 nm pore radius value, and the overall composite found as mesoporous. Similarly, in DLS analysis, bare NiCrMn-LDH had 404 nm hydrodynamic size, which increased for the final starch composite up to 667 nm. Zeta potential value changed from −14.56 mV to 0.95 mV after the incorporation of starch with NiCrMn-LDH. They confirmed the incorporation of starch with trimetallic NiCrMn-layered double hydroxide (2:1:2). Starch association improved the properties of the photocatalyst like surface area. Different parameters like pH value, initial dye concentration, photocatalyst dose, hydrogen peroxide concentration, effect of sacrificial reagent, and effect of inorganic anions were studied for degradation of RO13. Overall, the photocatalysis process for RO13 followed pseudo-first-order kinetics. Photocatalytic degradation reactions for reactive orange 13 were conducted with an initial dye concentration of 10 mg/L, photocatalyst dosage of 20 mg/50 mL, and pH value at 3 in the presence of sunlight, resulting in an impressive degradation removal rate of 86.68%. This remarkable degradation ability of the photocatalyst for reactive orange 13 proves this composite was highly efficient.
Advancements in Utilizing Natural Compounds for Modulating Autophagy in Liver Cancer: Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Targets
Authors: Rahman Md Ataur , Rakib-Uz-Zaman S M , Chakraborti Somdeepa , Bhajan Sujay Kumar , Gupta Rajat Das , Jalouli Maroua , Parvez Md. Anowar Khasru , Shaikh Mushfiq H. , Hoque Apu Ehsanul , Harrath Abdel Halim , Moon Seungjoon , Kim Bonglee
Published: July 2024

Autophagy, an intrinsic catabolic mechanism that eliminates misfolded proteins, dysfunctional organelles, and lipid droplets, plays a vital function in energy balance and cytoplasmic quality control, in addition to maintaining cellular homeostasis. Liver cancer such as hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common causes of cancer deaths globally and shows resistance to several anticancer drugs. Despite the rising incidence and poor prognosis of malignant HCC, the underlying molecular mechanisms driving this aggressive cancer remain unclear. Several natural compounds, such as phytochemicals of dietary and non-dietary origin, affect hepatocarcinogenesis signaling pathways in vitro and in vivo, which may help prevent and treat HCC cells. Current HCC cells treatments include chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery. However, these standard therapies have substantial side effects, and combination therapy enhances side effects for an acceptable therapeutic benefit. Therefore, there is a need to develop treatment strategies for HCC cells that are more efficacious and have fewer adverse effects. Multiple genetic and epigenetic factors are responsible for the HCC cells to become resistant to standard treatment. Autophagy contributes to maintain cellular homeostasis, which activates autophagy for biosynthesis and mitochondrial regulation and recycling. Therefore, modifying autophagic signaling would present a promising opportunity to identify novel therapies to treat HCC cells resistant to current standard treatments. This comprehensive review illustrates how natural compounds demonstrate their anti-hepatocellular carcinoma function through autophagy.
Altered Monocyte and Lymphocyte Phenotypes Associated with Pathogenesis and Clinical Efficacy of Progestogen Therapy for Peritoneal Endometriosis in Adolescents
Authors: Khashchenko Elena P. , Krechetova Lyubov V. , Vishnyakova Polina A. , Fatkhudinov Timur Kh. , Inviyaeva Eugeniya V. , Vtorushina Valentina V. , Gantsova Elena A. , Kiseleva Viktoriia V. , Poltavets Anastasiya S. , Elchaninov Andrey V. , Uvarova Elena V. , Chuprynin Vladimir D. , Sukhikh Gennady T.
Published: July 2024

Background: Immunological imbalances characteristic of endometriosis may develop as early as the primary manifestations of the disease in adolescence. Objective: To evaluate subpopulation dynamics of monocytes and lymphocytes in peripheral blood and peritoneal fluid of adolescents with peritoneal endometriosis at diagnosis and after 1-year progestogen therapy. Methods: This study included 70 girls, 13–17 years old, diagnosed laparoscopically with peritoneal endometriosis (n = 50, main group) or paramesonephric cysts (n = 20, comparison group). Phenotypes of monocytes and lymphocytes of the blood and macrophages of the peritoneal fluid were analyzed by flow cytometry at diagnosis and during progestogen therapy. Results: Differential blood counts of CD16+ (p < 0.001) and CD86+ (p = 0.017) monocytes were identified as independent risk factors for peritoneal endometriosis in adolescents. During the treatment, cytotoxic lymphocytes CD56dimCD16bright (p = 0.049) and CD206+ monocytes (p < 0.001) significantly increased while CD163+ monocytes decreased in number (p = 0.017). The CD56dimCD16bright blood counts before (p < 0.001) and during progestogen therapy (p = 0.006), as well as CD206+ blood counts during the treatment (p = 0.038), were associated with the efficacy of pain relief after 1-year progestogen therapy. Conclusions: Adolescents with peritoneal endometriosis have altered counts of pro- and anti-inflammatory monocytes and lymphocytes both before and after 1-year progestogen therapy, correlating with treatment efficacy and justifying long-term hormonal therapy.
Thermodynamic Analysis of Typical Alloy Oxidation and Carburization in High-Temperature CO2 Atmosphere
Authors: Xiong Jing
Published: July 2024

The corrosion of structural materials is a crucial issue of the application of supercritical carbon dioxide in the Brayton power cycle system. The oxidation and carburization behaviors of typical alloy materials in high-temperature CO2 environments are studied based on thermodynamic analysis technology, including the analysis of the oxidation and carburization performance of the CO2 atmosphere as well as the corrosion behaviors of alloy elements under 500 °C, 600 °C, and 650 °C. In addition, the oxide film characteristics of T91 and 800H alloys, including phase composition and morphology structure, are studied at 500 °C and 650 °C. Research has found that for the T91, FeCr2O4 and Fe3O4 can form a continuous oxide film layer with coverage and SiO2, VO, and MnCr2O4 oxides are mainly in the inner layer of the oxide film. For the 800H, Cr2O3 and MnCr2O4 can form flakes of oxide film layers, while Al2O3, TiO2, and SiO2 are distributed as scattered grains near the interface between the oxide film and the matrix material. Both T91 and 800H will produce chromium carbides, which will reduce the toughness of the material.
Study on Durability and Dynamic Deicing Performance of Elastomeric Coatings on Wind Turbine Blades
Authors: Li Ke , Xue Zhiliang , Jiang Danqing , Chen Zhichun , Si Qi , Liu Jixin , Zhou Yonggang
Published: July 2024

Durable elastomeric deicing coatings were developed for the anti-icing and deicing of wind turbine blades in this study. Our developed deicing coatings demonstrated extremely low ice adhesion strength (~15 kPa). Silica was added to enhance the icephobic surfaces’ durability. The life of the deicing coating with silica was extended by 1.2 times. After 168 h of xenon lamp irradiation, there were no significant changes in the chemical composition of the coatings. Due to the increasing roughness and the decreasing tensile modulus, the contact angle of the aged coatings decreased by 14°. Further outdoor research was carried out on a wind farm for two months to investigate the influence of natural insolation and wind erosion on the elastic deicing coatings. The aged coating still maintained a high hydrophobicity and low ice adhesion strength. The contact angle stabilized at 107°, and the ice adhesion strength was 75% lower than that of the uncoated wind turbine blade. The elastomeric deicing coatings had three advantages: a lagging freezing time, low ice accumulation, and a short icing/deicing cycle. The results of field experiments on the naturally aged coatings showed that the freezing time of the coated blade was delayed by 20 min, and the ice on the coated blade was 29% thinner than that on the uncoated blade.
Progress in Research on Ni-Based Protective Coatings for Downhole Tubing Steel in CO2 Flooding
Authors: Zhao Yonggang , Zhang Xudong , Li Jishun , Cao Pengcheng , Wang Guangqin , Zhang Le , Jia Shuqin , Zhao Xuhang , Peng Haoping , Tian Ruichao
Published: July 2024

Ni-based coating, as an excellent anti-corrosion material, is widely used in the petroleum field and has become a research hotspot in recent years. With the continuous progress of the petrochemical industry, especially in the carbon capture, utilization, and storage and enhanced oil recovery (CCUS-EOR) systems, Ni-based coatings face significant challenges. Based on the latest research status, this paper describes the influence factors of Ni-based coatings and the applicability of different Ni-based coatings. Research shows that CO2 and H2S are the key factors affecting corrosion. With the increase in CO2 and H2S content in the environment, the corrosion rate of carbon steel will be accelerated. When the CO2 content reaches a certain critical value, further increasing the CO2 content will reduce the corrosion rate. The corrosion mechanism of carbon steel under the combined action of CO2 and H2S was also analyzed. At a high CO2/H2S partial pressure ratio, the corrosion process is dominated by CO2 corrosion, and with the increase in the H2S/CO2 partial pressure ratio, the corrosion process shifts to H2S corrosion control. The application of Ni-P protective coatings in this corrosive environment has been investigated. A surface Ni-P coating is extremely hard, wear-resistant, and corrosion-resistant. It can withstand the corrosion of CO2, high salinity, and other media while preventing electrolyte penetration. It exhibits strong corrosion resistance in NaCl solution and can help prevent scaling. However, in the presence of CO2-H2s, it has been discovered that due to inherent faults in Ni-P, the corrosion phenomenon may be exacerbated by the action of H2S, and its protection ability has to be further investigated. The mechanical properties and corrosion resistance of the coating can be enhanced by adding particles to the coating, and four new coating systems, Ni-Fe-P, Ni-Cu-P, Ni-W-P, and Ni-W-P-nSiO2, were introduced. Finally, the future development focus and prospect of CO2 corrosion protection coatings under harsh conditions are prospected.
Effects of TiC on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Four Fe-Based Laser Cladding Coatings
Authors: Wang Bin , Li Yun , Guo Chun , Huang Guangcan , Li Wenqing
Published: July 2024

This study focuses on Fe-based laser cladding coatings containing varying levels of four elements, and the objective is to investigate the influence of TiC addition on the microstructural evolution, microhardness, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance of these Fe-based composite coatings. Fe/TiC composite coatings were prepared by incorporating 20 wt.% TiC into four types of Fe-based coatings. The coatings were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), optical microscopy for microstructural observation, microhardness testing, friction and wear tests, and electrochemical analysis. The results indicate that the phases of the coatings are primarily composed of α-Fe and Cr7C3. Upon the addition of TiC, the TiC and Ni3Ti phases were observed in the coatings. The coatings mainly consist of columnar crystals, dendritic structures, equiaxed grains, and cellular structures, with petal-shaped TiC particles distributed within the coating matrix. TiC effectively enhances the microhardness and wear resistance of the coatings. The average microhardness of the coatings increased from 455.8 ± 20.8 HV0.2 to 802.8 ± 41.6 HV0.2 with TiC addition. Simultaneously, the wear rate of coating A2 decreased from 1.51 × 10−6 g/(N·m) to 1.02 × 10−7 g/(N·m), indicating an order of magnitude improvement in wear resistance. However, TiC destroys the denseness of the Fe coating, the current corrosion density increases by 28% on average, and the corrosion resistance decreases significantly.
Fundamentals of Infrared Heating and Their Application in Thermosetting Polymer Curing: A Review
Authors: Wang Tongzhao , Xia Liang , Ni Minrui , Pan Song , Luo Chuyi
Published: July 2024

Thermosetting polymers offer a wide range of applications in modern industries, including coatings, the automotive and aerospace industries, and furniture manufacturing. The curing process, which is a key step in the application of such materials, has become a research hotspot. More specifically, significant research efforts have been devoted toward shortening the curing cycle and reducing curing energy consumption without affecting product quality. Two common curing methods, namely, infrared (IR) curing and hot air convection curing, have been commonly employed. IR curing technology demonstrates certain advantages, such as high energy efficiency and adaptability, compared to traditional convection curing technology. Moreover, it has achieved desirable results in engineering applications and research. In this review, the current research on IR curing technology is presented in detail based on two fundamental aspects: the heat transfer process and the curing process. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the IR curing heat transfer process in terms of IR heating equipment, heat transfer monitoring devices, heat transfer models, and heat transfer simulation methods. Moreover, it summarizes and compares the basic research methods, equipment, and theoretical models involved in the curing process. In addition, it describes the non-thermal effect and its impact on the properties of cured products. This study describes the author’s perspective and opinions on the research direction in IR radiation-based curing technology. This literature review concludes that IR curing technology has strong research value and application prospects, particularly in fields requiring low-temperature rapid curing of thermosetting polymers.
Intertidal Species of Gelidium from the Temperate Coast of Argentina
Authors: Croce María Emilia , Freshwater D. Wilson
Published: July 2024

The Gelidiales comprises economically valuable species of marine red algae that are found globally, in cold, temperate, and warm waters. Although there is much known about the species diversity and distribution of this order, it remains underexplored on the temperate coast of the Southwestern Atlantic Ocean. This study aimed to update current knowledge about the intertidal Gelidiaceae found on the temperate coast of Argentina using a combination of rbcL data and morpho-anatomical studies and to evaluate the morphological variability among species related to habitat characteristics. Three morphotypes were found at the six localities surveyed; two were identified as different morphologies of Gelidium crinale and one was identified as Gelidium carolinianum. Populations of both species were widespread and coexisted extensively from 37° S to 40° S along the Argentinean coast. G. carolinianum is newly reported in the Southern Hemisphere, indicating it has a disjunct distribution that includes the North Atlantic and Mediterranean as well. Molecular data confirmed previous reports of G. crinale in Argentina, a species that exhibited broad morphological variability among sites. The development of both spermatangia and carpogonia on the same fertile gametophyte thalli in G. crinale and G. carolinianum was described for the first time and demonstrated that they are monoecious. These findings shed light on the diversity and biogeography of Gelidiales from temperate South America.
Two-Stage Lumbar Dynamic Stabilization Surgery: A Comprehensive Analysis of Screw Loosening Rates and Functional Outcomes Compared to Single-Stage Approach in Osteopenic and Osteoporotic Patients
Authors: Hekimoglu Mehdi , Akgun Mehmet , Ozer Hidir , Basak Ahmet , Ucar Ege , Oktenoglu Tunc , Ates Ozkan , Ozer Ali
Published: July 2024

Background: Dynamic lumbar stabilization aims to preserve spinal movement, offering stability and controlled motion. However, screw loosening, especially in patients with osteopenia and osteoporosis, remains challenging. Method: Between 2018 and 2022, a retrospective analysis was conducted on a total of 119 patients diagnosed with osteopenia and osteoporosis who underwent spinal dynamic instrumentation surgery. These patients were categorized into two groups: single-stage surgery (n = 67) and two-stage surgery (n = 52). Over the 48-month follow-up period, the occurrence and percentage of screw loosening were examined at each surgical level per patient, as well as by screw location (pedicular, corpus, tip). Clinical outcomes were evaluated using Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) scores. Results: Total screw loosening rates were significantly lower in the two-stage group (2.83%) compared to the single-stage group (14.63%, p < 0.001). Patient-based loosening occurred in 5 patients (9.6%) in the two-stage group and 16 patients (23.9%) in the single-stage group. Loosening rates were lower in the two-stage group at L2 (7.78%, p = 0.040), L3 (5.56%, p < 0.001), L4 (8.89%, p = 0.002), and L5 (10.00%, p = 0.006), but higher at S1 (21.11%, p = 0.964), T12 (15.56%, p = 0.031), and iliac levels (15.56%, p = 0.001). Pedicular section exhibited the highest loosening (37 cases). VAS and ODI scores improved significantly in both groups, with better outcomes in the two-stage group at the 48. months (p < 0.001). Conclusions: The two-stage surgical approach significantly reduces screw loosening in patients with osteopenia and osteoporosis undergoing dynamic stabilization surgery, offering enhanced stability and better clinical outcomes.
Robust Ultrafast Projection Pipeline for Structural and Angiography Imaging of Fourier-Domain Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: Zhang Tianyu , Liao Jinpeng , Zhang Yilong , Huang Zhihong , Li Chunhui
Published: July 2024

The current methods to generate projections for structural and angiography imaging of Fourier-Domain optical coherence tomography (FD-OCT) are significantly slow for prediagnosis improvement, prognosis, real-time surgery guidance, treatments, and lesion boundary definition. This study introduced a robust ultrafast projection pipeline (RUPP) and aimed to develop and evaluate the efficacy of RUPP. RUPP processes raw interference signals to generate structural projections without the need for Fourier Transform. Various angiography reconstruction algorithms were utilized for efficient projections. Traditional methods were compared to RUPP using PSNR, SSIM, and processing time as evaluation metrics. The study used 22 datasets (hand skin: 9; labial mucosa: 13) from 8 volunteers, acquired with a swept-source optical coherence tomography system. RUPP significantly outperformed traditional methods in processing time, requiring only 0.040 s for structural projections, which is 27 times faster than traditional summation projections. For angiography projections, the best RUPP variation took 0.15 s, making it 7518 times faster than the windowed eigen decomposition method. However, PSNR decreased by 41–45% and SSIM saw reductions of 25–74%. RUPP demonstrated remarkable speed improvements over traditional methods, indicating its potential for real-time structural and angiography projections in FD-OCT, thereby enhancing clinical prediagnosis, prognosis, surgery guidance, and treatment efficacy.
An Enigmatic Soft-Tissue Creeping Phenomenon: The Spontaneous Peri-Implant Mucosa Margin and Papilla Growth, Part Two—A Scientifically Supported Hypothesis Article
Authors: Agabiti Ivo , Apaza Alccayhuaman Karol Alí , Taniguchi Zenzaburo , Kuwano Kazuhisa , Botticelli Daniele
Published: July 2024

In our previous article, we observed and measured a spontaneous growth in the coronal direction of the keratinized tissues present around implants. This growth involved both free margins and interdental papillae, and we indicated our hypothesis on the probable cause of this still-unexplained phenomenon. The growth of oral soft tissues involves several other structures, such as the linea alba and tongue indentation. Our idea holds that growth of these tissues is generated by the negative intraoral pressure created in the oral phase of swallowing and the subsequent resting position, which through the resulting suction causes a shift of these soft structures in the gaps around the dental crowns. Other hypotheses have been suggested in the past to understand this phenomenon of soft tissue growth, which still lacks data supporting etiological evidence. The purpose of this article is to thoroughly analyze and verify our model by comparing the clinical observations with citations and examples from the literature, combined with notions of physiology, biology, and physics that help in clarifying these events. To better explain the mechanisms of oral soft tissue growth, photographs of clinical cases paradigmatic of the phenomenon are shown.
Theoretical Model of Structural Phase Transitions in Al-Cu Solid Solutions under Dynamic Loading Using Machine Learning
Authors: Grachyova Natalya , Fomin Eugenii , Mayer Alexander
Published: July 2024

The development of dynamic plasticity models with accounting of interplay between several plasticity mechanisms is an urgent problem for the theoretical description of the complex dynamic loading of materials. Here, we consider dynamic plastic relaxation by means of the combined action of dislocations and phase transitions using Al-Cu solid solutions as the model materials and uniaxial compression as the model loading. We propose a simple and robust theoretical model combining molecular dynamics (MD) data, theoretical framework and machine learning (ML) methods. MD simulations of uniaxial compression of Al, Cu and Al-Cu solid solutions reveal a relaxation of shear stresses due to a combination of dislocation plasticity and phase transformations with a complete suppression of the dislocation activity for Cu concentrations in the range of 30–80%. In particular, pure Al reveals an almost complete phase transition from the FCC (face-centered cubic) to the BCC (body-centered cubic) structure at a pressure of about 36 GPa, while pure copper does not reveal it at least till 110 GPa. A theoretical model of stress relaxation is developed, taking into account the dislocation activity and phase transformations, and is applied for the description of the MD results of an Al-Cu solid solution. Arrhenius-type equations are employed to describe the rates of phase transformation. The Bayesian method is applied to identify the model parameters with fitting to MD results as the reference data. Two forward-propagation artificial neural networks (ANNs) trained by MD data for uniaxial compression and tension are used to approximate the single-valued functions being parts of constitutive relation, such as the equation of state (EOS), elastic (shear and bulk) moduli and the nucleation strain distance function describing dislocation nucleation. The developed theoretical model with machine learning can be further used for the simulation of a shock-wave structure in metastable Al-Cu solid solutions, and the developed method can be applied to other metallic systems, including high-entropy alloys.
Instrumental Variable Method for Regularized Estimation in Generalized Linear Measurement Error Models
Authors: Xue Lin , Wang Liqun
Published: July 2024

Regularized regression methods have attracted much attention in the literature, mainly due to its application in high-dimensional variable selection problems. Most existing regularization methods assume that the predictors are directly observed and precisely measured. It is well known that in a low-dimensional regression model if some covariates are measured with error, then the naive estimators that ignore the measurement error are biased and inconsistent. However, the impact of measurement error in regularized estimation procedures is not clear. For example, it is known that the ordinary least squares estimate of the regression coefficient in a linear model is attenuated towards zero and, on the other hand, the variance of the observed surrogate predictor is inflated. Therefore, it is unclear how the interaction of these two factors affects the selection outcome. To correct for the measurement error effects, some researchers assume that the measurement error covariance matrix is known or can be estimated using external data. In this paper, we propose the regularized instrumental variable method for generalized linear measurement error models. We show that the proposed approach yields a consistent variable selection procedure and root-n consistent parameter estimators. Extensive finite sample simulation studies show that the proposed method performs satisfactorily in both linear and generalized linear models. A real data example is provided to further demonstrate the usage of the method.
Service Learning for Linguistic and Cultural Diversity in Higher Education: Proposals for Pre-Service (Language) Teacher Education
Authors: Duarte Joana , Gerritsen Nadia , Lourenço Mónica , Melo-Pfeifer Sílvia , Pinto Susana
Published: July 2024

Service learning, an educational methodology that intertwines community service with academic instruction, is garnering growing recognition within higher education due to its potential to enrich both research and outreach efforts. By integrating service learning into the curriculum, higher education institutions (HEIs) can bridge the gap between research and praxis, effectively bringing research findings to local communities and influencing on-the-ground practices. While the benefits of service learning have been widely acknowledged in the literature, there remains a lack of understanding on how service learning can be integrated into teacher education programmes to support linguistic and cultural diversity at schools. Additionally, there is limited insight into how institutions engaged in social action perceive their collaboration with HEIs, particularly in the context of teacher education. In this contribution, we address these gaps, by presenting the results of a multimethod and multisite research study that aimed to explore the perspectives of social action initiatives on the potential collaboration with HEIs to promote (language) teacher education focused on linguistically and culturally responsive practices. The results point to a great heterogeneity of social action projects and expectations on the part of the institutions regarding collaboration with HEIs. Despite this diversity, common principles of collaboration emerge from the data. These principles lay the foundations for a framework that may shape collaborative efforts between HEIs and social action initiatives in the field of pre-service (language) teacher education with the goal of promoting pedagogies that respect and leverage linguistic and cultural diversity in multilingual settings.
Quality in School Trusts: A Comparative Study in Four Countries
Authors: Muijs Daniel
Published: July 2024

Recent decades have seen the emergence of new forms of governance in education. Market-oriented education policies have seen schools removed from local government oversight, and instead sees them run by independent school trusts. This begs the question of what effectiveness and quality in a trust framework mean. In this paper, we review the literature from four countries with relatively comparable trust structures: England, the Netherlands, Sweden, and the US, to look at the evidence base on trust quality, leadership, and effectiveness. We find that the evidence base itself is relatively limited in scope. It is strongest in relation to impact on the organisation, especially with regards to the importance of HR, relationships within the trust, and quality assurance mechanisms. There is evidence at the network level on the importance of knowledge and skills of governors, effective forms of collaboration, and a shared vision across the trust. Trusts can improve the quality of education through professional development of teachers, developing consistent approaches, and sharing knowledge. Evidence of how trusts can enhance their impact in the community is limited.
Impact and Classification of Augmented Reality in Science Experiments in Teaching—A Review
Authors: Syskowski Sabrina , Wilfinger Sandra , Huwer Johannes
Published: July 2024

Augmented reality (AR) improves science education by facilitating teaching and experiments in schools and universities. Studies show positive effects, like increased motivation and improved concept connections, but there is a lack of consistency in the implementation and investigation of AR in science experiments. This review examines AR usage, criteria, design parameters for the development of AR applications and the validation methods, taking into account the PRISMA guidelines. A Web of Science database search using “Publish or Perish” software (version 23.4.0) identified 247 potentially relevant articles from 2000 to March 2024 in international, peer-reviewed journals. After removing duplicates, inaccessible abstracts, and applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, 40 studies were selected for in-depth analysis. Physics had the most AR applications, primarily for visualizing invisible properties. Most studies used quantitative or qualitative methods, only a few used both or did not conduct empirical research. Research questions varied, but common drawbacks included small sample sizes and low use of AR design parameters such as interactivity, adaptivity, realistic representation and use of game elements. This review identifies opportunities for improvement in the implementation and investigation of AR in science education experiments and emphasizes consistent and rigorous approaches to fully exploit the benefits of AR in science education.
Predefined-Time Adaptive Fast Terminal Sliding Mode Control of Aerial Manipulation Based on a Nonlinear Disturbance Observer
Authors: Zhao Mengyang , Qian Hongwei , Zhang Yueyuan
Published: July 2024

The contribution of this paper is to propose an adaptive fast terminal sliding mode controller that ensures exact predefined time stability of aerial manipulation tracking control based upon the nonlinear disturbance observer.The proposed control strategy is continuous and provides reliability in the situation of model error and nonvanishing disturbance.The adaptive parameter can adapt to the states of a system aimed at increasing the robustness of an aerial manipulator while reducing system chattering. Furthermore, the proposed nonlinear disturbance observer provides a scheme where the estimation of the observer can converge to the actual value within a given predefined time for the sake of enhancing robustness of the aerial manipulation system. Simulation results show the viability of the proposed controller in this paper.
Distributed MPC-Based Voltage Control for Active Distribution Networks Considering Uncertainty of Distributed Energy Resources
Authors: Ma Chao , Xiong Wenjie , Tang Zhiyuan , Li Ziwei , Xiong Yonghua , Wang Qibo
Published: July 2024

Due to the uncertainty of distributed energy resources (DERs), the effectiveness of voltage control in distribution networks faces significant challenges. Aiming at this problem, a novel distributed stochastic model predictive control (DSMPC) scheme was proposed in this paper to achieve voltage regulation considering the uncertainty of DERs. In the proposed control scheme, based on the photovoltaic (PV) prediction error model, multiple operation scenarios are selected to characterize the uncertainty of PV generation. Then, based on these selected scenarios, a DSMPC approach is developed to minimize the cost of control actions by coordinating the PV inverters and battery energy storage systems. Simulation involving the modified IEEE 34-bus verified that the proposed method can work effectively under the uncertainty of DERs and achieves a comparable control performance with a well-designed centralized controller.
The Effect of Microbial Degradation on the Combustibility and Potential Fire Behaviour of Pinus koraiensis Needles
Authors: Li Baozhong , Wang Mingyu , Ning Jibin , Zhang Yunlin , Yang Guang , Wang Lixuan , Geng Daotong , Wu Fei , Yu Hongzhou
Published: July 2024

Flammable litter such as Pinus koraiensis needle accumulation increases the risk of wildfire. In the event of a high-intensity fire, forest resources can be severely damaged. To reduce the occurrence of forest fires, it is important to reduce loads and modify structures. This study conducted 270 indoor degradation experiments to determine physicochemical properties of Pinus koraiensis during the combustion degradation process. Combustion degradation treatment variables were constructed with different durations, Trichoderma fungi, and doses. The results show that the physicochemical properties of flammable litter changed significantly after degradation, with a maximum degradation rate of 11. The degradation rate was affected by time and microbial agents, but there was no significant difference between different doses. Principal component analysis was used to determine overall combustibility, and it was found that a dose of 4 mL of Trichoderma harzianum had the best effect on degradation for 42 days, reducing combustibility by 203%. It was found that the 6ml composite mould had the best inhibitory effect on fire spread rate, reaching the lowest value. After 42 days, the flame intensity of 4 mL Trichoderma harzianum reached its lowest value of 57.17 kw/m, which represents a decrease of 54% compared to the initial value. Similarly, the flame’s length reached its lowest value of 4.91 cm, which represents a decrease of 31% compared to the same period last year. The aim of this study is to establish the relationship between time, microbial agents, dosage, flammable physical and chemical properties, overall flammability, and potential fire behaviour. The values of the goodness-of-fit index and the comparative fit index are both >0.98, and the values of the standardised root mean square residual and the approximate root mean square error are both <0.05. This study has a positive effect on accelerating the decomposition of combustibles, reducing the content of flammable components, reducing flammability and potential fire behaviour, and reducing the risk of forest fires. It is of great significance for strengthening natural resource management and forest ecological conservation.