bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Massive Neomyogenesis in the Dynamic Regenerative Scaffold of the Stenting & Shielding Hernia System for Abdominal Hernioplasty. The Evidences in Experimental Porcine Model
Authors: Amato Giuseppe , Puleio Roberto , Agrusa Antonino , Rodolico Vito , Cicero Luca , Cassata Giovanni , Di Buono Giuseppe , Battaglia Emanuele , Neto Claudia , Romano Giorgio , Ra William , Romano Giorgio
Published: December 2024

Despite significant advancements, prosthetic hernia repair continues to face unacceptably high complication rates, including postoperative discomfort and chronic pain. These issues often stem from poor biological responses, such as the formation of stiff scar tissue and mesh shrinkage, commonly associated with traditional static meshes and plugs. Recent studies have challenged the conventional approach of reinforcing the groin through fibrotic incorporation of meshes, particularly in light of new evidence on the degenerative origins of many types of abdominal hernias such as groin hernias. In response, the Stenting & Shielding (S&S) Hernia System, a newly designed 3D dynamic device, has been developed for dissection free laparoscopic placement to permanently obliterate hernia defects. Unlike conventional meshes, this device induces a probiotic biological response, promoting viable tissue growth rather than fibrotic plaque formation. In a porcine experimental model, the S&S device demonstrated the development of a great amount of muscle fibers, alongside nervous and vascular structures, within well-perfused connective tissue. Histological analysis of biopsy specimen excised from the experimental animals revealed progressive muscle fiber maturation from early myocyte development in the short term to fully developed muscle bundles in the long and extra-long term. The enhanced biological response observed with the S&S device suggests a promising shift in hernia repair, potentially reversing the degenerative processes of hernia formation and promoting tissue regeneration. The S&S Hernia System described here can be classified not merely as a conventional hernia implant, but as part of a new category of hernia devices: the dynamic regenerative scaffold.
3D Concrete Printing in Kuwait: Stakeholder Insights for Sustainable Waste Management Solutions
Authors: Al-Raqeb Hanan , Ghaffar Seyed Hamidreza
Published: December 2024

Robotic construction using 3D concrete printing (3DCP) offers significant potential to transform Kuwait’s construction industry, particularly in reducing waste. This study explores the feasibility of integrating 3DCP into Kuwait's construction waste management practices by examining the perspectives of key stakeholders. Through a mixed method approach of a comprehensive literature review, a survey of 87 industry professionals, and 33 in-depth interviews with representatives from the Public Authority for Housing Welfare (PAHW), Municipality, private sector, and the general public, the study identifies both the benefits and challenges of 3DCP adoption. The findings highlight key advantages of 3DCP, including increased construction efficiency, cost savings, enhanced design flexibility, and reduced material waste. However, several barriers such as regulatory limitations, technical challenges in adapting 3DCP to local project scales, and cultural resistance must be addressed. Results also indicate varying levels of stakeholder familiarity with 3DCP and existing waste management practices, underscoring the need for awareness and educational initiatives. This study makes two significant contributions: first, by providing a detailed analysis of the technical and regulatory challenges specific to Kuwait’s construction sector; and second, by offering a strategic roadmap for 3DCP integration, including regulatory reform, research into sustainable materials, and cross-sector collaboration. These recommendations aim to enhance waste management practices by promoting more sustainable and efficient construction methods by achieving SDGs 9, 11, 12, and 13. The study concludes that government support and policy development will be essential in driving the adoption of 3DCP and achieving long-term environmental benefits in Kuwait’s construction industry.
The Evolution of Mass Communication Theories in the Age of Digital Media: The Decline of Traditional Models and the Rise of New Paradigms
Authors: Almakaty Safran
Published: December 2024

This paper is to explore the evolution of mass communication theories in the context of digital media, emphasizing the decline of traditional models and the rise of innovative paradigms. I argue that historical theories, such as the Hypodermic Needle Theory, fall short in explaining the complexities of modern digital interactions due to their linear and passive assumptions. Through a series of interviews and case studies, I analyze the transition to new theories, such as Network Society Theory and Algorithmic Media Theory, which better encapsulate the interactive and decentralized nature of contemporary media landscapes. My findings illustrate the urgent need for a reevaluation of communication models, supported by global examples that highlight the transformative impact of digital media on audience engagement and content dissemination. Ultimately, I advocate for future research to further investigate diverse methodologies that can enhance our understanding of digital communication dynamics.
Against-Agenda: Social Movements, New Media and Social Change
Authors: DEL VALLE CARLOS
Published: December 2024

This paper analyses how the different forms of media communication used by the Mapuche in-digenous social movement, especially from the mid-1990s to date, have considered different strategies. (1) Background: Here we will review, first, the strategy of intervention in the agenda of the hegemonic media in Chile; and second, the plan of creating its own media to form an alter-native media agenda. (2) Methods: The study considered three methodological strategies: Anal-ysis of a total of 1033 news, 21 individual and group interviews, and review and documentary analysis. (3) Results: The study raises how the movement manages to configure an against-agenda, understood as an agenda built within the framework of a dispute for control of the semiotic-communicational code of society, its relationships, and its eventual transformations. (4) Conclusions: As we will see here, the against-agenda is only possible in conditions of so-cio-political crisis, with semantic consequences in social language and with a tendency to regress to the status quo.briefly describe the main methods or treatments applied.
Perancangan Sistem Informasi Pemesanan Berbasis Web di Restoran Pawon Jinawi
Authors: Primanda Aldyan Gilang , Fajri Ika Nur
Published: December 2024

Abstrak:

Pawon Jinawi merupakan sebuah usaha restoran yang bergerak dalam bidang penjualan makanan dan minuman. Restoran ini menyajikan berbagai menu rumahan khas Jawa. Namun, sistem pemesanan dan pengelolaan data di restoran ini masih dilakukan secara manual, yang menimbulkan masalah seperti lambatnya pelayanan dan risiko kehilangan catatan pesanan. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengembangkan sistem informasi berbasis web yang memudahkan pelanggan dalam melakukan pemesanan  secara online. Sistem ini juga dirancang untuk membantu karyawan dalam pengelolaan data pesanan dan pembayaran secara lebih terstruktur. Metode pengembangan yang digunakan adalah waterfall, sebuah metode pengembangan perangkat lunak yang berjalan secara berurutan dan sistematis. Setiap tahap diselesaikan secara menyeluruh sebelum melanjutkan ke tahap berikutnya, untuk tahapannya mencakup lima tahap Requirement, Design, Implementation, Verification, dan Maintenance. Pengujian sistem dilakukan menggunakan metode Black box. Hasil penelitian ini yaitu sebuah sistem informasi pemesanan berbasis web. Setelah implementasi sistem akan meningkatkan efisiensi operasional restoran, dengan waktu pemrosesan pesanan yang berkurang sebesar 45%, serta peningkatan kepuasan pelanggan dalam hal kecepatan dan kemudahan proses pemesanan. Penelitian ini didukung oleh beberapa penelitian terdahulu yang menunjukkan manfaat dari penerapan sistem informasi untuk pengelolaan pemesanan di restoran

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Abstract:

Pawon Jinawi is a restaurant business engaged in the sale of food and beverages. This restaurant serves a variety of Javanese home-style menus. However, the ordering system and data management in this restaurant are still done manually, which causes problems such as slow service and the risk of losing order records. This study aims to develop a web-based information system that makes it easier for customers to place orders online. This system is also designed to help employees manage order and payment data in a more structured way. The development method used is waterfall, a software development method that runs sequentially and systematically. Each stage is completed thoroughly before proceeding to the next stage, for the stages include five stages of Requirement, Design, Implementation, Verification, and Maintenance. System testing is carried out using the Black box method. The results of this study are a web-based ordering information system. After the implementation of the system will increase the operational efficiency of the restaurant, with order processing time reduced by 45%, as well as increased customer satisfaction in terms of speed and ease of the ordering process. This research is supported by several previous studies that show the benefits of implementing an information system for managing orders in restaurants
Pengembangan dan Uji Usability Sistem Informasi Presensi Berbasis Web di Institusi Pendidikan
Authors: Pratisto Eko Harry , Athifah Daffa Mudia , Purnomo Fendi Aji
Published: December 2024

Abstrak:

Penelitian ini bertujuan mengembangkan sistem informasi presensi berbasis website untuk meningkatkan efisiensi dan akurasi pencatatan data kehadiran di sektor pendidikan. Sistem ini mendukung pencatatan kehadiran secara real-time yang dapat diakses dari berbagai perangkat yang terhubung ke internet, memudahkan pengguna seperti guru, siswa, dan pihak administrasi. Melalui pendekatan perancangan sistem berbasis Agile, penelitian ini melibatkan analisis kebutuhan, desain sistem menggunakan Entity-Relationship Diagram (ERD) dan Unified Modeling Language (UML), pengembangan, serta pengujian menggunakan metode usability testing. Hasil uji SUS menunjukkan nilai 82, 5 yang dapat diartikan sistem ini memiliki tingkat kemudahan penggunaan dan efisiensi yang baik, serta meningkatkan transparansi dan akuntabilitas pengelolaan kehadiran. 

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Abstract:

This study aims to develop a web-based attendance information system to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of attendance data recording in the education sector. The system supports real-time attendance recording accessible from various internet-connected devices, facilitating users such as teachers, students, and administrative staff. Using an Agile system design approach, this study involves requirements analysis, system design utilizing Entity-Relationship Diagram (ERD) and Unified Modeling Language (UML), development, and testing through usability testing methods. The test result show 82,5 for SUS score which demonstrate that the system offers a high level of ease of use and efficiency while improving transparency and accountability in attendance management.
The implementation of this system also shows a reduction in data input errors and an increase in the speed of attendance recapitulation compared to manual methods. However, challenges such as data security and technological infrastructure limitations in certain areas require attention. The web-based system is vulnerable to cyber threats, thus necessitating data security enhancements and infrastructure development to ensure its effectiveness.

 
The Ability of Computational Thinking in Physics Learning
Authors: Rosandhi Tantri Mugi Utami , Haryadi Rudi
Published: December 2024

The introduction describes the critical role of computational thinking in the digital era and ecosystem and developments in the global economy, work, and everyday life. Computational thinking skills are critical, especially in the Industrial Revolution 4.0 era, where technology and automation play a central role. Computational thinking includes problem solving, critical thinking, and integrating digital technology with human ideas. Abstraction, decomposition, algorithms, and evaluation are some of the main aspects of computational thinking skills. The research method used is a literature study with content analysis techniques. This research concludes that Computational Thinking is an approach that can improve the quality of physics learning, concept understanding, critical thinking skills, and student learning outcomes. Obstacles can be overcome by collaborating with other learning methods and approaches.
Acercamiento a la antropología de la música a través de la obra de Ghost
Authors: Monárrez Lainez Luis
Published: December 2024

El presente texto tiene como objetivo un acercamiento a las potencias epistemológicas de la Antropología de la Música a partir del estudio del grupo Ghost y su producción. El ejercicio de reflexión propone que con la música es posible transmitir cuestiones de la condición humana, no sólo con las notas, sino también con la lírica. La obra musical puede analizarse desde otra vertiente, ya que las canciones conllevan mensajes que denotan sentidos/significados dentro de un entramado de prácticas culturales. Ghost representa un “pretexto” de análisis en tres dimensiones: las letras (qué comunican, la visión de quien escribe); la imaginería utilizada; las portadas de sus álbumes (que complementan un concepto musical “satánico”).
Presentación. Las múltiples facetas de la migración masiva en el Siglo XXI
Authors: Antonio Payán Luis
Published: December 2024

Los ensayos en este dossier, son reflexiones relativamente cortas, pero profundas, y cubren eslabones clave de la experiencia migratoria del siglo XXI. Los ensayos abordan la migración desde la geopolítica, desde el activismo, desde la experiencia personal, desde la salud y otros servicios, y desde la economía. Lo que los une es que todos son parte de una sola experiencia humana—la migración o movilidad humana, en todas sus facetas.
Lipoprotein(a), atherosclerosis and cardiovascular risk
Authors: Polyakova E. A. , Khalimov Iu. S. , Bazhenova E. A. , Bakher T. M.
Published: December 2024

At the end of the 20th century, the contribution of hyperlipoproteinemia (a) to early development and severity of coronary, cerebral and peripheral artery atherosclerosis was established, and its association with the development of aortic valve stenosis was shown. The results of epidemiological studies allow us to consider lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) as a new target for the diagnosis, prevention and pharmacotherapy of atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases. The atherogenicity of Lp(a) is 6 times higher than that of low-density lipoproteins and can be the cause of early and rapid progression of atherosclerosis. The 2022 European Atherosclerosis Society statement stated that the threshold value of Lp(a) for "excluding" the risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases is less than 30 mg/dL. The range of Lp(a) values between 30 mg/dL and 50 mg/dL creates the so-called "grey zone" when the possible risks associated with Lp(a) and other cardiovascular risk factors should be considered. At Lp(a) values >180 mg/dL, the risk of cardiovascular diseases is equivalent to the risk of patients with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia. This review will discuss the genetic and pathophysiological properties of Lp(a), and the epidemiological data demonstrating its effect on cardiovascular morbidity. Extracorporeal methods for removing excess Lp(a) from blood serum are currently the only proven option to correct this dyslipidemia. Cascade plasmafiltration helps reduce LDLcholesterol and Lp(a) levels by more than 60%, as well as to decrease the level of oxidized phospholipids in plasma. It should be noted that according to 2023 domestic recommendations, the criteria for extracorporeal treatment are Lp(a) >50.0 mg/dl. The review provides recommendations for screening and treatment of patients with elevated Lp(a) levels, as well as a range of pharmacotherapeutic drugs being developed to reduce its level in the blood.
Gender differences in survival and its predictors in patients after myocardial infarction: data analysis from the RIMIS register
Authors: Afonina O. S. , Martsevich S. Yu. , Zagrebelnyy A. V. , Sichinava D. P. , Drapkina O. M.
Published: December 2024

Aim. Among patients who survived acute myocardial infarction (MI) with ST segment elevation (STEMI), to assess gender differences in clinical and anamnestic indicators, long-term survival, as well as factors affecting it. To compare the effect of recurrent MI on long-term survival in men and women.Material and methods. Data from the retro-prospective RIMIS register were used. In 2017, 214 patients with STEMI were admitted to the emergency cardiology department of the vascular center, 23 (10.8%) of them died in the hospital. After 6 years, the life status of patients discharged from the hospital was assessed (191 people, 129 men, 62 women). The response was 93.2%. The factors influencing the fatal outcome were assessed using a model of proportional Coke risks separately for men and women. The primary endpoint was the overall patient’s mortality.Results. The women who survived MI were, on average, 16.5 years older than the men who survived, and they were more likely to have concomitant diseases (diabetes mellitus, obesity). During the follow-up period, 34 men (26.4%) and 26 women (41.9%) died. Kaplan-Meyer curves demonstrated significantly worse survival in women compared to men. However, after the age adjustment was introduced, the risk of death in women was lower than in men (HR =0.981 (0.968-0.993), p=0.003). The main mortality predictors in women were hospitalization before reference MI, a history of coronary heart disease, a history of cerebral stroke, and anemia. In men, the main predictor of death was the presence of disability, the fact of recurrent MI, a history of chronic kidney disease and the presence of oncology (the latter two factors were rare, respectively, in 6.2% and 3.9% of patients).Conclusion. Women suffered MI much later than men. Therefore, higher mortality rates after MI were mainly determined by concomitant diseases. The main mortality predictor in men was recurrent MI. The age-adjusted risk of death after MI is lower in women than in men.
Adding Nativity, Citizenship, and Immigration Status to Health Monitoring and Survey Data
Authors: Marouf Fatma E. , Perreira Krista M. , Pham Huyen
Published: December 2024

Immigration status and related policies have a significant impact on health outcomes. Yet major national health surveys currently provide little or no information about immigration status, rendering subgroups of noncitizens largely invisible. Even measures of citizenship, nativity, country of birth, and years in the United States, which provide critical information about immigration history, are not consistently included in national data sets.

The main objections to asking directly about immigration status are that (1) such questions are too stigmatizing, risking lower response rates and inaccurate responses; and (2) answering the questions may expose respondents to possible immigration or criminal consequences. Our analysis shows that these objections are unfounded or can be mitigated.

National health surveys have evolved over the past decades to include questions about mental health, substance use, sexual orientation, and gender identity—topics once assumed to be too stigmatizing to ask about, with possible negative legal consequences. We argue that the time has come to obtain more detailed information about immigration status as well as to consistently include the measures of immigration history mentioned so that we can better evaluate the health consequences of immigrant-related policy choices. ( Am J Public Health. 2025;115(1):75–82. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2024.307867 )
Equity Zones: Building the Bridge to Transformation
Authors: Ausura Christopher , Turner Genese , Latham Jennifer , Marcus Nicole , Schnell Susanne , Edmiston Brian
Published: December 2024

This article is a call to action for transformative health equity initiatives empowering communities to address systemic health inequities through expanded implementation and enhanced evaluation of health equity zone models. These models prioritize community capacity building and power sharing for upstream, transformative change, urging increased investment in transformative public health practice. Lessons from Rhode Island and Chicago, Illinois, highlight strategies for preventing health inequities and reducing downstream needs among vulnerable populations, underscoring the need for developing innovative evaluation practices measuring transformative change. ( Am J Public Health. 2025;115(1):47–51. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2024.307872 )
WITHDRAWN: Experimental Observation of Power Quality Problems in Grid-Tie SPV Systems
Authors: Mangalapuri Sravani , Sobhan Polamraju. V.S.
Published: December 2024

The full text of this preprint has been withdrawn, as it was submitted in error. Therefore, the authors do not wish this work to be cited as a reference. Questions should be directed to the corresponding author.
EmoMBTI-Net: Introducing and Leveraging a Novel Emoji Dataset for Personality Profiling with Large Language Models
Authors: Kumar Akshi , Jain Dipika
Published: December 2024

Emojis, integral to digital communication, often encapsulate complex emotional layers that enhance text beyond mere words. This research leverages the expressive power of emojis to predict Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) personalities, diverging from conventional text-based approaches. We developed a unique dataset, EmoMBTI, by mapping emojis to specific MBTI traits using diverse posts scraped from Reddit. This dataset enabled the integration of Natural Language Processing (NLP) techniques tailored for emoji analysis. Large Language Models (LLMs) such as FlanT5, BART, and Pegasus were trained to generate contextual linkages between text and emojis, further correlating these emojis with MBTI personalities. Following the creation of this dataset, these LLMs were applied to understand the context conveyed by emojis and were subsequently fine-tuned. Additionally, transformer models like Roberta, DeBERTa, and BART were specifically fine-tuned to predict MBTI personalities based on emoji mappings from MBTI dataset posts. Our methodology significantly enhances the capability of personality assessments, with the fine-tuned BART model achieving an impressive accuracy of 0.875 in predicting MBTI types, which notably exceeds the performances of Roberta and DeBERTa, at 0.82 and 0.84 respectively. By leveraging the nuanced communication potential of emojis, this approach not only advances personality profiling techniques but also deepens insights into digital behaviour, highlighting the substantial impact of emotive icons in online interactions.
Evaluation of fatigue-induced changes in swimming technique using a tri-axial accelerometer in high performance adolescent swimmers
Authors: Skorulski Maciej , Stachowicz Małgorzata , Kuliś Szymon , Gajewski Jan
Published: December 2024

The present study analyzed the technique and kinematic changes under fatigue in highly trained adolescent swimmers during a 50-meter swim at maximum crawl speed. Twenty-four girls and fourteen boys aged 12–13 participated in the study. The movement of the hip rim was analyzed using a specialized inertial device equipped with a triaxial gyroscope and accelerometer to measure changes in angular velocity and acceleration. Between the first and second lengths of the pool, the following were observed: a significant (F1.36 = 63.6; p < 0.0001; η²=0.64) increase (34%) in maximum pelvic angle, significant (F1,36 = 6.0; p = 0.0193; η²= 0.14;) increase (12.10%) in angular velocity in rotational motion around a vertical axis, and a significant (F1,36 = 11.29; p = 0.0018; η²= 0.24) increase (6.86%) in angular velocity in yaw rotation motion around the sagittal axis. Significant (F1,36 = 13.96; p = 0.0006; η²=0.28) differences in maximum pelvic angle were observed for lap and side. Repeated high-intensity, high-volume repetitions in adolescent athletes can lead to the perpetuation of a faulty movement pattern. Taking this into account, coaches should limit maximum-speed swimming in adolescent athletes to short distances and an appropriate interval and use training methods to reduce asymmetric work such as training snorkels.
A multi-spectral and hyperspectral image dataset for evaluating the health status of avocado, olive and vineyard
Authors: Estrada Juan Sebastian , Demarco Rodrigo , Johnson Ciarán Miceal , Zañartu Matías , Fuentes Andres , Cheein Fernando Auat
Published: December 2024

Assessing the health status of vegetation is of vital importance for all stakeholders. Multi-spectral and hyper-spectral imaging systems are tools for evaluating the health of crops across large areas, particularly when deployed on robotic platforms such as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). However, the literature lacks benchmark datasets to test algorithms for predicting plant health status, with most researchers creating tailored datasets. This work presents a dataset composed of multi-spectral images, hyper-spectral reflectance values, and measurements of weight, chlorophyll, and nitrogen content of leaves at five different drying stages, from avocado, olive, and vineyard trees, which are common crops in the Valparaíso region of Chile. This dataset is a valuable asset for developing tools in the field of precision agriculture and assessing the general health status of vegetation.
Study on the mechanical behavior and penetration performance of composite tungsten alloy penetrator
Authors: Long Fengying , Li Weibing , Li Jun-bao , Zou Bin
Published: December 2024

To improve the penetration performance of armor-piercing projectile, a composite tungsten alloy penetrator was designed, and mechanical property tests, LS-DYNA simulations and ballistic gun tests were conducted to investigate the mechanical behavior and penetration performance differences between composite tungsten alloy penetrator and homogeneous tungsten penetrator. The local microstructure of the residual penetrator tipwas obtained, and the penetration mechanism of the penetrator was deeply analyzed. The results show that the deformation and failure of composite tungsten alloy penetrator exhibit localized characteristics, and the composite structure of the penetrator can reduce the number of cracks and avoid the phenomenon of large cracks cutting off the penetrator. It can better ensure the integrity of the penetrator tip and the durability of penetration power, and has an increasing trend of " tip-form self-sharpening" ability, which has better penetration performance than homogeneous tungsten penetrator. It can provide theoretical reference for further structural optimization and performance improvement of armor-piercing projectile.
Spent lithium-ion battery recycling: multi-stage synergistic deep removal of impurities and lithium extraction
Authors: Lou Wenbo , Liu Dong-yan , WANG Yun , ZHAO Da , SUN Zi-cheng , ZOU Yi , WANG Sheng-yan , CHENG Quan-guo , LI Jian-zhong , LIU Hong-hui
Published: December 2024

Nowadays, the recycling of spent lithium-ion batteries is a key concern in the energy field. Among them, for the purification of Li-containing mother liquor, the targeted multi-means coupling impurity removal methods are mostly employed, which however, inevitably lead to a Li loss of 3~5%, and high costs. In this study, a multi-stage hydrolysis method, combining with the residual P and Al, Mg, Cu, Zn, Ni, Fe, forming hydroxide-phosphate co-precipitation for the synergistic impurity separation, was adopted. Thermodynamic calculations show that Li+ and Mg2+ are insensitive to pH when pH <10, and Al, Cu, Zn, Ni, Fe behave similarly in nature. Impurities should be precipitated as: Fe3+＞Al3+＞Cu2+＞Ni2+＞Zn2+＞Mg2+, with phosphate precipitating first, followed by converting into hydroxide as pH rising. Actual results showed that the order was P＞Fe & Al & Cu & Ni & Zn＞Mg, and the process was divided into three steps, with separation points at pH = 2.37, 8.66, and 11.00, respectively. All the impurity removal efficiencies were close to 100%, the loss of Li was 1.74%. The optimal conditions for Li2CO3 precipitation were determined: an Na2CO3 addition of 1.5 times the theoretical amount, a temperature of 90 oC, a reaction time of 4 hours, and a one-time addition of dosing method. Li precipitation efficiency reaches 90.10%, with a 99.95% purity. The results effectively reduced Li losses and provided a practically feasible basis for the industrial purification of Li-containing mother liquor.
Large scale burning of the upstream catchment results in greater and longer lasting effects on stream macroinvertebrate communities than local site scale burning.
Authors: Shenton Mark D , Thompson Ross M , Kefford Ben J
Published: December 2024

Background
The increasing frequency, severity and intensity of wildfire globally is generally recognised as a significant threat to freshwater biodiversity. Fires impact streams through a range of mechanisms including geomorphological change, altered resource availability and direct impacts on biota. The magnitude and duration of fire impacts on stream ecosystems vary widely. Reasons for this variation are hypothesised to include the effects of fire can be from upstream catchment disturbance, disturbance at the site, or both. Additionally, many studies have sub-optimal designs as they are poorly replicated, short term, lack before data, and/or lack unburnt controls, which may further contribute to this variations in impacts. Here, we use a before-after-control-impact (BACI) design in sub-alpine woodlands in south-eastern Australia with 7 years of before data and 8 years of after data, to determine the effects of landscape-scale fires on stream macroinvertebrate community structure at local and landscape scales.
Results
Catchment scale disturbance had greater impacts for a longer duration (up to 4 years) on macroinvertebrate communities than local site scale disturbance (up to 1 year). Fire-induced changes in in-stream habitat and resources (e.g., substrate composition) were associated with the greatest changes in macroinvertebrate communities. Macroinvertebrate diversity was lower post fire at burnt sites and catchment burnt sites because of both reduced taxa richness and increased evenness. Differences between burnt and unburnt sites were predominantly a consequence of changes to the abundances of Coleoptera and Diptera taxa. Recovery in macroinvertebrate communities, including those downstream of fire, was associated with recovery of riparian vegetation cover at burnt sites.
Conclusions
Larger scale disturbance to the upstream catchment was more important for the macroinvertebrate community than local site scale disturbance. Post-fire management to minimise and ameliorate fire effects on stream macroinvertebrates should focus on limiting the downstream effects of fire on in-stream habitat caused by sediment movement and geomorphic changes.
A lightweight network-based automatic modulation recognition method for resource constrained edge devices
Authors: Sun Long , Li Tantan , Shao Hui , Meng Fanyu
Published: December 2024

With the rapid development of intelligent communication technology, modulation recognition of signals has become a crucial research topic in multiple domains such as radar, communications, and electronic warfare. Currently, deep learning-based modulation recognition methods leverage their powerful feature learning capabilities to effectively improve recognition accuracy in low signal-to-noise ratio environments. However, these methods often suffer from complex network structures, high computational requirements, and demanding hardware platforms. Addressing these issues, this paper proposes an automatic modulation recognition method based on lightweight networks applicable under edge conditions. Firstly, the original I/Q data undergo wavelet threshold denoising to mitigate the impact of noise on signal modulation recognition. Subsequently, by incorporating a phase estimator and an enhanced channel attention mechanism into the model, this approach accurately captures signal features affected by noise and interference, while endowing the network with the ability to learn and focus on key information. Importantly, it replaces complex and redundant network structures by utilizing only three one-dimensional convolutional layers for feature extraction, thereby achieving simplification and optimization of the network architecture.After validation on the public dataset RadioML 2016.10a, the number of parameters of this model is only 0.06M, but the average recognition rate reaches 62.32%.
Multi-directional shearing synchronous polarization phase- shifting interferometer and its interferometry system experimental verification
Authors: zhu Yahui , tian Ailing , wang Hongjun , liu Bingcai , wang Kai
Published: December 2024

This paper explores a multi-directional shearing synchronous polarization phase-shifting interferometer utilizing a birefringent crystal displacer. This design effectively mitigates nonlinear issues and environmental influences commonly encountered in synchronous phase-shifting interferometry. Additionally, it facilitates the acquisition of shear wavefront information from multiple directions. By solving for the coefficients of the measured wavefront using multi-directional differential wavefront information, this system performs fitting coefficient to reconstruct the wavefront. The characteristics of crystal birefringence beam modulation, phase grating diffraction, and polarization phase-shifting array for synchronous phase-shifting interferometry are investigated based on the specific implementation methods of multi-directional shearing and synchronous polarization phase-shifting. Subsequently, the preprocessing method for the multi-directional shearing phase-shifting interferogram was presented, followed by a detailed explanation of the spatial position registration technique for the shearing interferogram and the calculation method of the shear amount. The construction system of the interferometer was experimentally tested using a spherical optical component and was compared with the test results obtained from ZYGO to verify its correctness and testing accuracy.
The effect of plasticizers on rheological, physical and mechanical properties of low cement high alumina gunning refractories
Authors: Mobasheri Mohammad , Hadian Ali Mohammad , Mohammadi Yasaman , Azimi Behzad , Kamali Mehrnoosh
Published: December 2024

In this research, the effect of different plasticizers with different amounts on the properties of monolithic alumina-based refractories has been investigated. All samples were fired at 1100°C and 1550°C. In order to evaluate the desired properties, first the rheological properties of the samples were examined, and then for further investigations, loss on ignition (LOI), percentage of permanent linear changes (PLC), apparent porosity (AP), bulk density (BD) and cold crushing strength (CCS) tests were used. In addition, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) and X-ray diffractometry (XRD) were used to characterize the samples. The results of this research showed that the sample containing 1 wt% of ball clay can be the most appropriate one due to its highest strength, highest density and lowest apparent porosity. Moreover, the sample containing 2 wt% of H19 (a commercially available binder) has the optimum properties because of its highest strength for the samples fired at 1100°C. For the mixtures fired at 1550°C, the more amount of silica has caused higher cold crushing strength due to the presence of the low melting point phases which are not desired and therefore, the mixtures with less silica can be used.
Enhancing 3D Gaussian Splatting for Low-Quality Images: Semantically Guided Training and Unsupervised Quality Assessment
Authors: Cao Zehao , Wang Zongji , Zhang Yuanben , Zeng Zhihong , Cai Weinan , Zhang Lili , Liu Junyi
Published: December 2024

This paper proposes CLIPGaussian, an improved training and rendering method for 3D Gaussian Splatting tailored to address the degradation of reconstruction quality under low-quality image conditions. By integrating a multi-view semantic evaluation module based on CLIP and a 3D spatial consistency loss, CLIPGaussian enhances the model's sensitivity to object-level semantics, enabling better reconstruction even with limited or blurred training images. Furthermore, we introduce an unsupervised evaluation method leveraging semantic features and explicit 3D Gaussian properties to assess reconstruction quality, providing practical guidance in scenarios where ground truth is unavailable. Experiments on the Mip-NeRF360 dataset demonstrate CLIPGaussian's superiority, particularly in low-quality image scenarios, validating both the training and evaluation approaches. This work paves the way for more robust and reliable 3D scene reconstruction from imperfect data. Our source code and pre-trained models are available at https://github.com/ZhChessOvO/CLIPGaussian.
Microstructural alterations in gray matter after acute stress
Authors: Zhao Na , Meng Linghui , Zhang Yingdong , Du Guoshuai , Liu Hongran , Gao Minglong , Ren Beibei
Published: December 2024

Structural and functional changes in stress-related gray matter (GM) regions have been found in trauma-exposed individuals. However, the nature of underlying microstructural abnormalities in traumatized individuals is unclear. In this study, thirty-two motor vehicle accident (MVA) survivors and 31 nonexposed controls were recruited. MVA survivors were scanned and received trauma-specific clinical assessments within 7 days of their accident. Mean diffusivity (MD), fractional anisotropy (FA) and GM volume (GMV) were measured as indicators of GM structural changes in the medial orbitofrontal cortex (mOFC), amygdala, hippocampus, insula and anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) bilaterally. Correlation analyses were performed to explore the association between the resultant GM structure and anxiety symptoms. Significantly lower fractional anisotropy (FA) in the mOFC and ACC was detected in the MVA group. No difference was found in MD and GMV. No structural measures showed associations with anxiety symptoms. MVA survivors showed GM microstructure alterations shortly after acute stress. These findings contribute to a better understanding of alterations in GM structure occurring shortly after acute stress that manifest far earlier in posttraumatic responses.
A qualitative study on the perceived barriers to accessing End-Stage Kidney Disease (ESKD) treatment in Northern Ghana: Perspectives of Healthcare Providers
Authors: Iddrisu Aduni Amina , Boateng Edward Appiah
Published: December 2024

Background
This study was conducted in three major hospitals in northern Ghana. A qualitative research approach was employed to explore the experiences of healthcare professionals. The participants were selected using purposive sampling. The interviews were conducted via telephone.
Method
This study was conducted in three major hospitals in northern Ghana. A qualitative research approach was employed to explore the experiences of healthcare professionals. The participants were selected using purposive sampling. The interviews were conducted via telephone.
Results
There is a significant shortage of specialist healthcare professionals, including nephrologists and nephrology nurses, which hinders effective dialysis delivery. The lack of dialysis centers in certain regions significantly affect the ability to access hemodialysis. Healthcare providers also reported experiencing emotional and psychological stress due to their inability to provide adequate care.
Conclusion
These challenges emphasize the need for policy reforms to ensure equitable access to dialysis services across all regions. Recommendations include increasing the number of dialysis centers and incorporating dialysis services into national health insurance coverage. Policymakers and stakeholders should address these gaps and enhance healthcare delivery for ESKD patients in northern Ghana.
Using Virtual Reality to Enhance Anatomy Education for Pre-matriculation Medical Students: An Assessment of Learning Outcomes Using a New Teaching Modality
Authors: Huda Shayan , Quraishi Mariam , Mathew Joshua , Giannaris Peter , Samuel Justin , Nwokeji Imani , Bhatia Anand , Goodman Elliot
Published: December 2024

Introduction
Virtual Reality (VR) is emerging as an innovative tool in medical education, offering interactive and immersive learning experiences. In contrast, traditional methods involve live cadaveric dissections as well as video-based learning with cadaveric focus, anatomical models, and lectures. This study aims to compare the engagement and learning outcomes of pre-matriculation medical students using VR versus the established video-based methods, reflecting the anatomy curriculum typically provided without live cadaveric dissection.
Methods
The study included 94 pre-matriculation undergraduate students at the Sophie Davis School of Biomedical Education/CUNY School of Medicine. The study employed a randomized controlled trial, dividing the students into two groups. The control group received traditional anatomy education, which included cadaver dissection videos, anatomical models, and lectures, while the experimental group utilized VR-based learning simulations. Both groups studied osteology and muscular attachments of the lower limb and pelvis. Various assessments and surveys were administered to measure learning outcomes and student motivation. The first survey captured demographic information. The second survey assessed student motivation using a revised version of the Instructional Materials Motivation Survey (rIMMS), specifically adapted for VR learning. The third assessment consisted of identical pre and posttests to evaluate learning outcomes.
Results
Seventy-four students were included in the final analysis. Significant improvements were observed in all four components of the rIMMS: attention, relevance, confidence, and satisfaction, in the VR group, as demonstrated by Mann-Whitney U tests. This highlights the substantial impact of the VR intervention on student motivation across these key areas, underscoring the potential of VR in enhancing motivation and learning outcomes in medical anatomy education. Both groups showed significant improvement between pre and post-tests. The experimental group demonstrated a positive correlation with the VR intervention. However, the control group exhibited a higher mean score increase, especially among students with prior anatomy experience.
Conclusion
The findings suggest that VR can improve both tangible learning outcomes and student motivation, making it a valuable addition to medical education.
Excellent laccase mimic activity of Cu-melamine and its applications in the degradation of Congo red
Authors: Chai Siyuan , Huang Enze , Zeng Jiashuai , Shi Yangyang , Zhang Jiashuo , Zhang Xia
Published: December 2024

Copper-based nanozyme has shown the superior in the oxidase-like activities due to its electron transfer ability between the Cu (I) and Cu (II) sites during the catalytic reactions. Herein, a Cu(I)-MOF (Cu-Mel) was readily synthesized by a traditional hydrothermal process using the precursors of Cu+ and melamine, which was then used in the laccase-like catalytic reactions for the first time. Some means, such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) were employed to character the microstructure of the Cu-Mel. The catalytic oxidation of the 4-aminoantipyrine (4-AP) and 2,4-dichlorophenol (2,4-DP) were adopted to evaluate the laccase-like catalytic ability of the resulting Cu-Mel. The catalytic conditions including the temperatures, the presence of alcohols and the ionic concentrations, were varied to optimize the laccase-like activities, based on that, the highest laccase-like catalytic activity is presented with higher maximum reaction rate (Vmax). The good storage stability is also presented by the Cu-Mel. The Cu-Mel was utilized in the degradation of Congo red, showing a good degradation efficiency. These findings facilitate the development of the laccase mimics and serve as a foundation for the design and applications of Cu-MOFs in the nanozyme realm.
Immune infiltration and clinical significance of the prognostic and immune-related gene signature in gastric cancer
Authors: Yang Hang , Ai Huihan , Chen Guanglong , Zhao Weijie , Wu Zikun , Lv Chai , Li Zhi
Published: December 2024

Background
Gastric cancer is a prevalent digestive system tumor. However, its heterogeneity and poor prognosis pose challenges to patient treatment. Therefore, there is a need to improve patient outcomes and guide treatment through patient stratification and immune prognostic models.
Methods
We analyzed gene expression in the The Cancer Genome Atlas dataset using statistical tests and developed a 24-gene risk signature called Prognostic and Immune-Related Gene Signature (PIRGS) using LASSO Cox regression. The Asian Cancer Research Group database was used to validate the model's accuracy. Based on the PIRGS signature, we categorized gastric cancer patients into high-risk and low-risk groups. Further analysis was conducted to explore immune infiltration, signaling pathways, and drug sensitivity differences between two groups. We also developed a nomogram combining the PIRGS signature and clinical variables for prognostic assessment. Key genes in the model were validated at tissue and cellular levels.
Results
The PIRGS signature, consisting of 24 genes, accurately predicted 1-year, 3-year, and 5-year survival rates in gastric cancer patients. The PIRGS score classified patients into PIRGS-High risk and PIRGS-Low risk groups. The PIRGS-High risk group showed upregulation of the TGF-β signaling pathway and increased type II interferon response, along with unfavorable prognosis and elevated monocyte levels. PD-L1 immune therapy appeared more effective in low-risk patients. Several potential therapeutic compounds were identified, particularly for PIRGS-High risk patients. CD14 and TGFB1/2/3 were expressed at higher levels in the PIRGS-High risk subgroup. Investigation of APOD as a potential target showed its association with unfavorable prognosis, and knockdown inhibited gastric cancer cell growth.
Conclusions
The PIRGS is a potent prognostic factor in gastric cancer and accurately predicts survival rates. It provides insights into immune infiltration characteristics, correlating with immune therapy, chemotherapy, and targeted inhibitors. This knowledge facilitates patient stratification and personalized treatment strategies.