bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inconsistences persisting in the conceptual structure of thermal physics and the nature of fundamental constants
Authors: Mareš Jiří J. , Špička Václav , Šesták Jaroslav
Published: October 2024

Conceptual structure of contemporary thermal physics is by no means simple, understandable and free of contradictions or ambiguities. As many students claim, it is a rather complicated doctrine which is far from to be easy comprehensible (Meltzer in Am J Phys 72:1432–1446, 2004). Therefore, in this polemic contribution, originally the summer school lecture, we will address some lesser-known points, which are likely responsible for such a situation. We start with Black’s path breaking discovery of two aspects of heat, namely the “matter of heat” and the “intensity of heat,” which were later identified with the quantities known as entropy (S) and temperature (T). It can be shown that the product of these two quantities can enter the energy balance equation, which is apt to interconnect various parts of physics. The genesis of these key concepts was, however, not straightforward. An original hypothetical model of heat, a subtle imponderable fluid, caloric (ς), was abandoned after the non-critical acceptance of the “milestone of thermodynamics,” Mayer–Joule’s postulate claiming the equivalence of heat and work. Heat then became a pure energy without any material carrier, but with seriously limited transformation abilities. In addition, the situation is also complicated by the very fact that the definition of Kelvin absolute thermodynamic temperature scale (T) is fully based on the caloric theory. Partial reconciliation brought about only introduction of Clausius’ entropy. This, however, was afterward recognized to be practically identical with the Carnot’s caloric. Furthermore, by analogy identification of phenomenological variables S and T with statistical parameters appearing in the kinetic theory has not withstand extension to the domain of special relativity. Thus, the full equivalence between thermodynamics and statistical physics is not feasible. Another realm of problems is generated by the recent tendency in metrology to define units by means of defining constants with fixed numerical values instead of materialized étalons. In case of thermal physics, one can be skeptic about such an approach, because the universal constancy of entropy and its unit, Boltzmann constant k = 1.380649 × .10−23 J K-1, are only unjustified assumptions, which can be a potential source of future difficulties.
Magnetic Sphincter Augmentation for Gastroesophageal Reflux After Sleeve Gastrectomy: A Systematic Review
Authors: Cammarata Francesco , Novia Martina , Aiolfi Alberto , Damiani Riccardo , Manara Michele , Giovanelli Alessandro , Berta Rossana Daniela , Anselmino Marco , Ogliari Cristina , Bona Davide , Bonavina Luigi
Published: October 2024

This systematic review aims to evaluate the current evidence regarding safety and efficacy of magnetic sphincter augmentation (MSA) for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG). Conversion to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) carries the risk of surgical and metabolic complications and may be contraindicated in patients with normalized or near-normalized body mass index. The LINX™ procedure aims to restore LES competency and to repair the crura. We included 109 patients (14 studies) undergoing LINX™ implant after LSG. Median follow-up was 18.9 months (range 0.3–63). Both the GERD-HRQL (38 ± 13 vs. 10 ± 11; p = 0.0078) and daily PPI use (97.4% vs. 25.3%; p < 0.0001) were significantly improved. Overall, 31.8% of the patients experienced device-related adverse events, mainly self-limiting. LINX™ explant for esophageal erosion occurred in 0.9% of the patients.
Electric bus fleet transition: assessment approach considering economic and environmental impacts, and its application
Authors: Ye Zimeng , Huang Ziling , Yang Shuyuan , Du Yuze , Zhao Hongmei
Published: October 2024

In our society, global warming is considered one of the most serious problems. According to scientists, the world has been warmed by 3 degrees per year, which will be catastrophic to our world. To reduce CO2 emission, an electric bus is one way to solve the problem. In this article, we use four different models: Multiple Linear Regression (MLR), Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average Model (ARIMA), Ecological Assessment Model, Bus Fleet Replacement Financial Model, and Integer Programming Model to determine the number of carbon emissions, the least money that government need to spend on transitions, and future blueprint; these help to predict the overall benefits for countries turn into absolutely electric bus society. Our research stands from the sustainable point of view; we view better environment as the goal. By applying these models to three different countries: London, and Toronto, and Philadelphia which is our main focus, we find out that the air quality will be increased by reducing different kinds of pollution. Moreover, by constructing a ten-year blueprint, we find out the best way to spend least money and make the environment gradually become better.
Engaging communities in therapeutics clinical research during pandemics: Experiences and lessons from the ACTIV COVID-19 therapeutics research initiative
Authors: Wohl David A. , Adam Stacey J. , Gibbs Kevin W. , Moskowitz Ari L. , Ortel Thomas L. , Singh Upinder , Jilg Nikolaus , Evering Teresa H. , Fischer William A. , Taiwo Babafemi O. , Daar Eric S. , Lindsell Christopher J. , Naggie Susanna , Rothman Russell L. , Dunsmore Sarah E. , McAdams M. Patricia , Vail Julia , Jayaweera Dushyantha
Published: October 2024

This manuscript addresses a critical topic: navigating complexities of conducting clinical trials during a pandemic. Central to this discussion is engaging communities to ensure diverse participation. The manuscript elucidates deliberate strategies employed to recruit minority communities with poor social drivers of health for participation in COVID-19 trials. The paper adopts a descriptive approach, eschewing analysis of data-driven efficacy of these efforts, and instead provides a comprehensive account of strategies utilized. The Accelerate COVID-19 Treatment Interventions and Vaccines (ACTIV) public–private partnership launched early in the COVID-19 pandemic to develop clinical trials to advance SARS-CoV-2 treatments. In this paper, ACTIV investigators share challenges in conducting research during an evolving pandemic and approaches selected to engage communities when traditional strategies were infeasible. Lessons from this experience include importance of community representatives’ involvement early in study design and implementation and integration of well-developed public outreach and communication strategies with trial launch. Centralization and coordination of outreach will allow for efficient use of resources and the sharing of best practices. Insights gleaned from the ACTIV program, as outlined in this paper, shed light on effective strategies for involving communities in treatment trials amidst rapidly evolving public health emergencies. This underscores critical importance of community engagement initiatives well in advance of the pandemic.
Return of individual research results to participants with and at risk for Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Lettenberger Samantha E. , Hartman Emily A. , Tam Kali , Auinger Peggy , Pawlik Meghan E. , Wilson Renee , Banda Elizabeth T. , Valdovinos Blanca , Kinel Daniel , Alcalay Roy N. , Dorsey E. Ray , Norcliffe-Kaufmann Lucy , Sharma Saloni , Holloway Robert G. , Schneider Ruth B.
Published: October 2024

In a prospective, remote natural history study of 277 individuals with (60) and genetically at risk for (217) Parkinson’s disease (PD), we examined interest in the return of individual research results (IRRs) and compared characteristics of those who opted for versus against the return of IRRs. Most (n = 180, 65%) requested sharing of IRRs with either a primary care provider, neurologist, or themselves. Among individuals without PD, those who requested sharing of IRRs with a clinician reported more motor symptoms than those who did not request any sharing (mean (SD) 2.2 (4.0) versus 0.7 (1.5)). Participant interest in the return of IRRs is strong.
Judicial Populism and Corruption Prosecutions in the Mani Pulite Operation
Authors: Manzi Lucia
Published: October 2024

I provide a new analytical framework to understand the effectiveness of corruption prosecutions in the so-called Mani Pulite (Clean Hands) operation by showing how this operation was rooted in a populist interpretation of criminal rules and criminal procedure. The Clean Hands operation represented a successful breakthrough against the vast and complex corruption system that had sustained Italian politics for decades. I show that prosecutors in the Clean Hands operation interpreted legal rules through the lens of a deep-seated hostility between a vague conglomerate of “corrupt elites” and “virtuous citizens.” This populist interpretation of criminal and procedural rules introduced significant legal innovations that empowered judicial actors against systemic corruption by creating unprecedented incentives for defendants to cooperate with legal authorities. Consequently, the judicial professionals leading the Clean Hands operation also felt the need to shield themselves against retaliation for the use of these novel approaches to corruption prosecution by bringing their fight before the court of public opinion. To this end, the Clean Hands prosecutors made use of targeted media interventions to rally public support around their investigation and protect their work from political interference.
Application of neural network for automatic symbol recognition in production of electronic navigation charts from paper charts
Authors: Gunathilaka Malavige Don Eranda Kanchana , Perera Amarasinghege Nihal Dinasiri , Weerasingha Pavithra Lakshan
Published: October 2024

This research boarded on a novel initiative to replace the error-prone and labour-intensive process of converting Paper Nautical Chart (PNC) symbols to Electronic Navigational Chart (ENC) symbols with a more efficient and automated manner using Artificial Intelligence (AI). The proposed method applies the Convolutional Neural Network and YOLOv5 model to recognise and convert symbols from PNC into their corresponding ENC formats. The model's competence was evaluated with performance metrics including Precision, Recall, Average Precision, and mean Average Precision. Among the different variations of the YOLOv5 models tested, the YOLOv5m version revealed the best performance achieving a mean Average Precision of 0 ⋅ 837 for all features. A confusion matrix was used to visualise the model's classification accuracy for various chart symbols, underlining strengths and identifying areas for improvements. While the model has demonstrated high ability in identifying symbols like ‘Obstruction’ and ‘Major/Minor Lights’, it exhibited lesser accuracy with ‘Visible Wreck’ and ‘Background’ categories. Further, the developed graphical user interface (GUI) allowed users to interact with the artificial neural network model without demanding detailed knowledge of the underlying programming or model architecture.
The Vibes Are Off: Did Elon Musk Push Academics Off Twitter?
Authors: Bisbee James , Munger Kevin
Published: October 2024

Twitter has been a prominent forum for academics communicating online, both among themselves and with policy makers and the broader public. Elon Musk’s takeover of the company brought sweeping changes to many aspects of the platform, including public access to its data; Twitter’s approach to censorship and mis/disinformation; and tweaks to the affordances of the platform. This article addresses a narrower empirical question: What did Elon Musk’s takeover of the platform mean for this academic ecosystem? Using a snowball sample of more than 15,700 academic accounts from the fields of economics, political science, sociology, and psychology, we show that academics in these fields reduced their “engagement” with the platform, measured by either the number of active accounts (i.e., those registering any behavior on a given day) or the number of tweets written (including original tweets, replies, retweets, and quote tweets). We further tested whether this decrease in engagement differed by account type; we found that verified users were significantly more likely to reduce their production of content (i.e., writing new tweets and quoting others’ tweets) but not their engagement with the platform writ large (i.e., retweeting and replying to others’ content).
Forecasting the 2024 Republican Presidential Nomination: Can the Former Heavyweight Champ Win Another Title Shot?
Authors: Dowdle Andrew J. , Adkins Randall E. , Sebold Karen , Steger Wayne P.
Published: October 2024

Donald Trump’s bid for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination is unique in that no former president since Theodore Roosevelt in 1912 has sought the nomination of their political party, nor has a candidate sought the nomination while facing multiple criminal indictments. With data from previous nomination cycles, we use presidential nominations from 1980 to 2020 to create a forecast for the 2024 Republican primaries. The variables in the equations consist of data from the pre-primary period (e.g., money raised, cash reserves, elite endorsements, and polling results) and a second model with results of the Iowa caucuses and the New Hampshire primary to forecast the remaining primary vote. The models accurately predict Trump’s victory despite the unique nature of his candidacy.
The PollyVote Forecast for the 2024 US Presidential Election
Authors: Graefe Andreas
Published: October 2024

Originally founded in 2004 to improve election forecasting accuracy through evidence-based methods, the PollyVote project applies the principle of combining forecasts to predict the outcome of US presidential elections. The 2024 forecast uses the same methodology as in previous elections by combining forecasts from four methods: polls, expectations, models, and naive forecasts. By averaging within and across these methods, PollyVote predicts a close race, giving Kamala Harris a slight edge over Donald Trump in both the two-party popular vote (50.8 vs. 49.2%) and the Electoral College (276 vs. 262 votes). The forecast gives Harris a 65% chance of winning the popular vote and a 56% chance of winning the Electoral College, making both outcomes toss-ups. Compared to the combined PollyVote, component forecasts that rely on trial-heat polls tend to favor Harris, whereas methods that rely on alternative measures are less optimistic about the Democratic candidate’s chances. The polls may be overestimating Harris’s lead.
Housing wealth and political outcomes: a multi-dimensional analysis at the local level in South Korea
Authors: Han Seungwoo
Published: October 2024

The current study explores the relationship between housing wealth and political outcomes at the regional level in South Korea, providing insights that extend beyond the scope of previous research, which has primarily concentrated on individual or macro levels. It focuses specifically on district-level dynamics within the unique context of South Korea to uncover the underlying mechanisms of housing politics. The findings indicate a clear trend: as the average price of apartments – a key indicator of housing wealth – rises in a district, there is an increased tendency for residents to support candidates from the conservative party. Furthermore, the data-driven analysis highlights the significance of housing wealth amidst various regional characteristic variables, particularly in its capacity to distinguish the target regions. By employing comprehensive data and a multi-dimensional analytical approach, this study unravels the intricate relationship between housing wealth and political outcomes within a regional context. In doing so, it greatly enhances our understanding of the impact of housing wealth on political outcomes, bridging the gap between individual behaviours and national trends, and underscoring the pivotal role of housing wealth in shaping regional political dynamics.
You Are Safe Here: Community Sponsorship Policy and Refugee Integration in the UK
Authors: Hassan Sara , Phillimore Jenny , D’Avino Gabriella
Published: October 2024

Globally, resettlement is considered one of the most durable solutions for refugees. The UK has introduced a Community Sponsorship Scheme that enables communities to resettle refugee families providing them with enhanced integration support aided by volunteers. This paper investigates the nature of integration support that sponsored refugees receive utilising the analytical framework of UK’s Indicators of Integration (IoI). Data was collected from interviews with refugee adults resettled in diverse and less diverse areas. Our findings illustrate the importance of support given by volunteer groups to enable access to resources and connections. We establish that there is much potential for sponsorship programmes to add value to refugee support suggesting that the current expansion of sponsorship from its Canadian roots may help facilitate refugee integration. However, further research is needed to uncover the long-term experiences of sponsored refugees and to compare their outcomes to those of forced migrants arriving via different mechanisms.
Highly DUV to NIR-II responsive broadband quantum dots heterojunction photodetectors by integrating quantum cutting luminescent concentrators
Authors: Ding Nan , Xu Wen , Liu Hailong , Jing Yuhan , Wang Zewen , Ji Yanan , Wu Jinlei , Shao Long , Zhu Ge , Dong Bin
Published: October 2024

Low-cost, high-performance, and uncooled broadband photodetectors (PDs) have potential applications in optical communication etc., but it still remains a huge challenge to realize deep UV (DUV) to the second near-infrared (NIR-II) detection for a single broadband PD. Herein, a single PD affording broadband spectral response from 200 to 1700 nm is achieved with a vertical configuration based on quantum dots (QDs) heterojunction and quantum cutting luminescent concentrators (QC–LC). A broadband quantum dots heterojunction as absorption layer was designed by integrating CsPbI3:Ho3+ perovskite quantum dots (PQDs) and PbS QDs to realize the spectral response from 400 to 1700 nm. The QC–LC by employing CsPbCl3:Cr3+, Ce3+, Yb3+, Er3+ PQDs as luminescent conversion layer to collect and concentrate photon energy for boosting the DUV–UV (200–400 nm) photons response of PDs by waveguide effect. Such broadband PD displays good stability, and outstanding sensitivity with the detectivity of 3.19 × 1012 Jones at 260 nm, 1.05 × 1013 Jones at 460 nm and 2.23 × 1012 Jones at 1550 nm, respectively. The findings provide a new strategy to construct broadband detector, offering more opportunities in future optoelectronic devices.
USP7 depletion potentiates HIF2α degradation and inhibits clear cell renal cell carcinoma progression
Authors: Tu Rongfu , Ma Junpeng , Chen Yule , Kang Ye , Ren Doudou , Cai Zeqiong , Zhang Ru , Pan Yiwen , Liu Yijia , Da Yanyan , Xu Yao , Yu Yahuan , Wang Donghai , Wang Jingchao , Dong Yang , Lu Xinlan , Zhang Chengsheng
Published: October 2024

Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is characterized by Von Hippel Lindau (VHL) gene loss of function mutation, which leads to the accumulation of hypoxia-inducible factor 2α (HIF2α). HIF2α has been well-established as one of the major oncogenic drivers of ccRCC, however, its therapeutic targeting remains a challenge. Through an analysis of proteomic data from ccRCCs and adjacent non-tumor tissues, we herein revealed that Ubiquitin-Specific Peptidase 7 (USP7) was upregulated in tumor tissues, and its depletion by inhibitors or shRNAs caused significant suppression of tumor progression in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, USP7 expression is activated by the transcription factors FUBP1 and FUBP3, and it promotes tumor progression mainly by deubiquitinating and stabilizing HIF2α. Moreover, the combination of USP7 inhibitors and afatinib (an ERBB family inhibitor) coordinately induce cell death and tumor suppression. In mechanism, afatinib indirectly inhibits USP7 transcription and accelerates the degradation of HIF2α protein, and the combination of them caused a more profound suppression of HIF2α abundance. These findings reveal a FUBPs-USP7-HIF2α regulatory axis that underlies the progression of ccRCC and provides a rationale for therapeutic targeting of oncogenic HIF2α via combinational treatment of USP7 inhibitor and afatinib.
Retinal detachment in Type IX collagen recessive Stickler syndrome
Authors: Maghsoudi Daniel , Nixon Thomas RW , Martin Howard , Richards Allan J , McNinch Annie M , Alexander Philip , Poulson Arabella V , Snead Martin P
Published: October 2024

Objective

Stickler Syndrome (SS) is associated with eye, joint and orofacial abnormalities. Most cases are dominantly inherited through COL2A1/COL11A1 variants encoding type-II/XI collagen, with patients having up to 78% retinal detachment (RD) risk. Rarer cases of recessive SS have also been identified, associated with pathogenic variants of genes including COL9A1, COL9A2 & COL9A3 encoding type-IX collagen, but there is limited published data on patients’ phenotype or RD risk. Our study aimed to investigate RD risk in type-IX recessive SS, determining whether patients would benefit from prophylactic retinopexy. A secondary objective was to explore patient phenotypes, identifying key features which clinicians should identify, leading to earlier diagnosis.

Methods

We report 13 cases from 11 families with Type-IX recessive SS, identified from the cohort attending the NHS England Highly Specialised Stickler Syndrome Service (1/1/15-31/12/22). Patients underwent multidisciplinary assessment by ophthalmology, rheumatology and audiology.

Results

6/11 families exhibited previously undescribed genetic variants, and 7 had consanguineous parents. Clinical findings included abnormal vitreous architecture and high myopia. 15.4% of patients developed RD secondary to horseshoe retinal tears, with no cases of bilateral RD or giant retinal tears (GRTs). No patients had cleft palate, and 30.8% had midfacial hypoplasia. Hearing loss was more prevalent (91.7%) than in dominant SS. Arthropathy was uncommon but variable in manifestation.

Conclusions

Ours results do not point to high RD nor GRT incidence in recessive SS, although given the rarity, our numbers are small. Prophylactic retinopexy should only be offered case-by-case for fellow eyes of patients presenting with GRT detachments in their first eye.
An automatic tracking method to measure the mandibula movement during real time MRI
Authors: Mouchoux Jérémy , Sojka Florian , Kauffmann Philipp , Dechent Peter , Meyer-Marcotty Philipp , Quast Anja
Published: October 2024

Mandibular movement is complex and individual due to variations in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Consequently, patient-centered dentistry should incorporate patients’ specific anatomy and condylar function in treatment planning. Real-time magnetic resonance imaging (rt-MRI) visualizes relevant structures and tracks mandibular movement. However, current assessments rely on qualitative observations or time-consuming manual tracking, lacking reliability. This study developed an automatic tracking algorithm for mandibular movement in rt-MRI using least mean square registration (LMS) and compared it to manual tracking (MT) during mouth opening. Ten participants with skeletal class I underwent rt-MRI (10 frames/s). The same operator tracked the condylar pathway for the two methods, setting 2000 landmarks (2 landmarks x100 frames x10 participants) for MT and 210 landmarks (3 landmarks x7 frames x10 participants) for LMS. Time required, superimposition error, and the distance between tracked condylar pathways were compared between methods. LMS tracking was 76% faster and showed significantly better superimposition (0.0289 ± 0.0058) than MT (0.059 ± 0.0145) (p = 0.002). During one-third of the movement, the pathways tracked by both methods were more than 1 mm and 1° apart. These findings highlight the benefits of automatic condylar movement tracking in rt-MRI, laying the groundwork for more objective and quantitative observation of TMJ function.
Association between uric acid and the risk of depressive symptoms in US adults: results from NHANES 2005–2018
Authors: Wang Jinhua , Yang Ming , Lin Haiyan , Wang Jiao
Published: October 2024

Background

This study explores the relationship between serum uric acid(UA) levels and depression. UA is the final product of purine metabolism in the human body, possessing certain physiological functions such as blood pressure regulation, antioxidation, DNA protection, and anti-aging, thereby drawing attention for its potential role in preventing and treating depression.

Methods

This cross-sectional study includes 32,424 participants aged ≥ 20 years from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) conducted between 2005 and 2018, generating a nationally representative database. Depressive symptoms were assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9. Serum uric acid concentration was measured using the uricase-peroxidase coupled method, and participants were divided into quartiles of serum uric acid concentration. Weighted data were calculated according to analysis guidelines. The association between serum uric acid and depressive symptoms was analyzed using weighted multivariable logistic regression models and restricted cubic spline regression analyses. Subgroup analyses were also performed.

Results

Among 32,424 participants, 3,421 were defined as having depressive symptoms. The crude prevalence of depressive symptoms was 10.5% (weighted prevalence: 9.086% [95% confidence interval: 9.032–9.139%]). Compared with the first quartile, individuals with higher UA levels had a decreased risk of depressive symptoms by 9% (OR: 0.910, 95% CI: 0.797–10.40), 14.6% (OR: 0.854, 95% CI: 0.741–0.983), and 20.5% (OR: 7795, 95% CI: 0.680–0.930), respectively. Further restricted cubic spline regression analysis revealed a nonlinear association between UA and depressive symptoms, with an inflection point of 319.72 µmol/L. Subgroup multivariable weighted logistic regression analysis found that the association between UA and the risk of depressive symptoms remained consistent across all subgroups, demonstrating high stability and reliability.

Conclusion

This study emphasizes a significant nonlinear negative correlation between serum uric acid and depressive symptoms. This suggests that proper control of serum uric acid levels may play a role in preventing and treating depression.
Self-rated health in late adolescence as a predictor for mortality between 46 and 70 years of age
Authors: Andreasson Anna , Thern Emelie , Hemmingsson Tomas
Published: October 2024

Self-rated health is a common assessment used in epidemiological research and an independent predictor of morbidity and mortality. We investigate if a single measure of self-rated health in late adolescence predict mortality between 46 and 70 years of age. This study was based on 47 286 Swedish men that conscribed 1969–1970 at age 18–20 and that were still alive in 1997. Self-rated health and data on potential explanatory factors (psychological factors, health status markers and health behaviors) were collected at conscription. Adult socioeconomic position in 1990 was derived from registries. Death and cause of death (cancer, cardiovascular disease, violent and alcohol abuse related disorders) were derived from the Causes of Death Register between 1997 and 2019. Conscripts that rated their health as fair or poor/very poor had significantly higher hazard of all-cause mortality than conscript that rated their health as very good (HRfair = 1.27, 95%CI:1.18–1.37 and HRpoor = 1.25, 95%CI:1.11–1.41) and disease-specific mortality. Adjusting for all explanatory factors attenuated the risk estimates by 9–100%. In conclusion, poor self-rated health reported in late adolescence predicts all-cause and disease-specific mortality between the ages of 46 and 70 years. Psychological factors and health behaviors measured at conscription may serve as potential explanatory factors underlying the predictive ability of self-rated health in late adolescence.
A novel investigation of NANOG and POU5F1 associations in the pluripotent characterization of ES-like and epiblast cells
Authors: Roshan Mehdi Mehdinezhad , Azizi Hossein , Sojoudi Kiana
Published: October 2024

The transcription factors NANOG and POU5F1 (OCT4) play crucial roles in maintaining pluripotency in embryonic stem (ES) cells. While their functions have been well-studied, the specific interactions between NANOG and POU5F1 and their combined effects on pluripotency in ES-like and Epiblast cells remain less understood. Understanding these associations is vital for refining pluripotent stem cell characterization and advancing regenerative medicine. In this matter, we investigated the associations between NANOG and POU5F1 in maintaining pluripotency in ES-like and Epiblast cells and how these interactions contribute to the distinct pluripotent states of these cells. In the present paper, we examined the pattern of NANOG expression by the immunocytochemical method in embryonic stem-like (ES-like) cells and compared it with its expression pattern in embryonic stem cells (ESCs). Similarly, we examined the expression pattern of POU5F1 in ES-like cells, ESCs, and epiblast cells and compared the expression pattern of these two genes with each other. On the other hand, using Fluidigm Biomark system analysis, we compared the amount of NANOG mRNA in these three cell lines and differentiated and undifferentiated Spermatogonial stem cells in several passages. Microscopic observations indicated the cytoplasmic expression of NANOG in the considered cells; moreover, they showed a similar expression pattern of NANOG with POU5F1 in the experimented cells. It has also been suggested that the more limited the cell’s pluripotency, the lower the expression of these two genes. However, the decrease in NANOG expression is less than that of POU5F1. Fluidigm real-time RT-PCR analysis also confirmed these results. During the experimental process, protein-protein (PPI) network analysis shows a significant association of NANOG with other stem cell proteins, such as POU5F1. Our findings reveal distinct yet overlapping roles of NANOG and POU5F1 in maintaining pluripotency in ES-like and Epiblast cells. The differential binding patterns and functional interactions between these factors underscore the complexity of pluripotency regulation in different stem cell states. This study provides new insights into the molecular mechanisms governing pluripotency and highlights potential targets for enhancing stem cell-based therapies.
Gas chromatography-ion mobility spectrometry for the detection of human disease: a review
Authors: Gao Li , Yang Ruiwen , Zhang Jizhou , Sheng Miaomiao , Sun Yun , Han Bing , Kai Guoyin
Published: October 2024

GC-IMS can detect human disease-specific biomarkers by analyzing volatile organic compounds in biological samples in a non-invasive manner. The accuracy for disease diagnosis is high, due to which it has a good application prospect.
Preconcentration of lithium salt in nanoporous alumina on Cu foil as a concentrated lithium semi-solid layer for anode-free Li-metal batteries
Authors: Anansuksawat Nichakarn , Sangsanit Thitiphum , Prempluem Surat , Homlamai Kan , Chiochan Poramane , Songthan Ronnachai , Tejangkura Worapol , Sawangphruk Montree
Published: October 2024

We preconcentrate 2 M LiTFSI in 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide inside a nanoporous alumina layer as a so-called concentrated lithium semi-solid layer on a Cu current collector for anode-free Li-metal NMC90 batteries.
Photocatalytic synthesis of β-amino acid derivatives from alkenes with alkyl formates
Authors: Ying Cheng-Jie , Shao Yu , Wan Yuan-Cui , Zheng Ming , Hua Li-Li , Zhan Le-Wu , Li Bin-Dong , Hou Jing
Published: October 2024

The synthesis of β-amino acid esters was achieved through the combination of three-components radical coupling, hydrogen atom transfer and energy transfer processes, utilizing alkyl formates and olefins as raw materials in a light-induced reaction.
Polymorph transformation of solid drugs and inhibiting strategies
Authors: Feng Yaoguang , Wang Hui , Wu Di , Chen Kui , Wang Na , Wang Ting , Huang Xin , Zhou Lina , Hao Hongxun
Published: October 2024

The importance of studying polymorph transformation of solid drugs, as well as the types, conditions, mechanisms, and inhibition strategies of polymorph transformation.
A solid slow-release chlorine dioxide system using a modified starch-based nanofiber hydrogel for fruit preservation
Authors: Zheng Yuluo , Wang Beiwei , Qin Yafei , Shi Bingchen , Tang Lijuan , Huang Shuangling , Huang Lijie
Published: October 2024

Hydrogels show great potential in agriculture and other fields due to their excellent water absorption.
Friction-reduction effect of the hierarchical surface microstructure of carrion beetle by controlling the real contact area
Authors: Tsujioka Kazuma , Hirai Yuji , Shimomura Masatsugu , Matsuo Yasutaka
Published: October 2024

The friction-reduction effect of the hierarchical surface microstructure of carrion beetle was found. The hierarchical structure was more effective in reducing the real contact area than the single-layer structure due to the deformation.
Ruthenium-catalyzed Heck coupling of 3-arylidene-oxindoles with alkenes: a facile synthesis of 3-allylidene-2(3H)-oxindoles
Authors: Prabhakaran Mohan , Sanjana Ramesh , Parthasarathy Kanniyappan
Published: October 2024

A simple and efficient Ru(ii)-catalyzed olefination of 3-(arylbenzylidene)indolin-2-ones with alkenes is described. This protocol is found to be tolerant to a wide range of functional groups and affords various olefination products in good yields.
A scheme of combining DFO and channel estimation scheme for mobile OFDM systems
Authors: Yang Lihua , Shao Yongqi , Chang Ao , Hu Bo
Published: October 2024

To reduce the impact of residual Doppler frequency offset (RDFO), a joint DFO estimation and CE scheme is proposed for the OFDM systems under the high‐speed mobile environment. In the paper, the expression of interference power caused by the RDFO is first derived, and the effect of RDFO on time‐varying characteristic of channel is analysed. Then, a joint DFO and channel estimation scheme is presented. Specifically, a high‐precision DFO estimator based on the convolutional neural network with anti‐noise is firstly designed. Due to its ability to use fewer samples to adapt well to the new environments, the meta learning is adopted to estimate the time‐varying channel. Moreover, to improve the practicality of the algorithm, the non‐ideal values rather than ideal values are used as the training targets in the two neural networks. Additionally, the proposed method is only based on the received signal and does not require any pilots or training sequences, which has higher transmission efficiency compared to the existing algorithms. The research results indicate that the proposed method has good estimation performance and good practicality, and it is suitable for high‐speed mobile scenarios.
Wavelet CNN‐LSTM time series forecasting of electricity power generation considering biomass thermal systems
Authors: Buratto William Gouvêa , Muniz Rafael Ninno , Nied Ademir , Barros Carlos Frederico de Oliveira , Cardoso Rodolfo , Gonzalez Gabriel Villarrubia
Published: October 2024

The use of biomass as a renewable energy source for electricity generation has gained attention due to its sustainability and environmental benefits. However, the intermittent electricity demand poses challenges for optimizing electricity generation in thermal systems. Time series forecasting techniques are crucial in addressing these challenges by providing accurate predictions of biomass availability and electricity generation. Here, wavelet transform is applied for denoising, convolutional neural networks (CNN) are used to extract features of the time series, and long short‐term memory (LSTM) is applied to perform the predictions. The result of the mean absolute percentage error equal to 0.0148 shows that the wavelet CNN‐LSTM is a promising machine‐learning methodology for electricity generation forecasting. Additionally, this paper discusses the importance of model evaluation techniques and validation strategies to assess the performance of forecasting models in real‐world applications. The major contribution of this paper is related to improving forecasting using a hybrid method that outperforms other models based on deep learning. Finally, future research directions and potential advancements in time series forecasting for biomass thermal systems are outlined to foster continued innovation in sustainable energy generation.
Main lobe deceptive jamming suppression based on blind source separation and energy detection for monopulse radar
Authors: Liu Zhenhua , Liang Wei , Fu Ning , Qiao Liyan , Zhang Jun
Published: October 2024

Main lobe deceptive jamming always causes the serious degradation of signal detection ability and angle measurement precision of monopulse radar. In recent years, the Blind Source Separation (BSS) method has been adopted to suppress the main lobe jamming. However, the separation results of BSS have the problem of amplitude ambiguity, which will cause the radar using monopulse angle measurement fail to measure the angle parameters after jamming suppression. To tackle this problem, a novel main lobe jamming suppression method is proposed based on BSS and energy detection. Firstly, the models of target echoes and jamming in the sum and difference beam receiving channels are derived. Secondly, the target echoes and interferences are separated by the Joint Approximate Diagonalisation of Eigenmatrices (JADE) algorithm, and then the unperturbed signal segments in the mixed signal are extracted by energy detection, thereby obtaining the precise ratio of the sum and difference channels to complete the angle measurement. Performance of the method was verified by numerical simulation. The results show that the proposed method can achieve interference suppression while accurately estimating the angle parameter of the target.
Small mammal assemblage in Gunung Tebu Forest Reserve, Terengganu: An environmentally sensitive area in East Coast Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: Fauzi Nur Athirah , Munian Kaviarasu , Mahyudin Nur Aina Amira , Rosdy Faridatul Nordiana Mohd. , Ahmad Muhammad Bukhari
Published: October 2024

Effective spatial planning plays a pivotal role in defining the progress and growth of a certain region. One aspect of spatial planning by PLANMalaysia involves the incorporation of environmentally sensitive areas (ESAs), which comprises eleven different landscape management. Integrating biological features is crucial when defining ESA Permanent Forest Reserve, as relying solely on physical attributes may not accurately reflect the true sensitivity of the environment. Therefore, there is a need to gather biological information to strengthen existing ESA. A study was conducted in Gunung Tebu Forest Reserve (GTFR) from April to July 2023. Multiple trapping approaches were deployed to assess volant and non-volant small mammal assemblage. In total, 155 individuals comprised of 31 species of small mammals were documented with the highest species abundant recorded by Maxomys rajah (n = 29) and Leopoldamys sabanus (n = 27). The diversity indices were varied throughout five sampling sessions, (Shannon = 1.841 to 2.543), (Simpson = 0.7951 to 0.9056). Comparison on species assemblage between GTFR and forest reserves in Hulu Terengganu showed a moderate similarity level. This finding offers the most recent insight of the small mammals in GTFR and highlights the significance of conserving and preserving (ESA) in permanent forest reserves.
Preliminary Study of Chiroptera at Padang Chong Forest Reserve, Hulu Perak, Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: Ahmad Ruzman Nor Hazwani , Azman Mohammad Shahfiz , Appanan Manoshini , Azahar Muhammad Asyraff , Baharudin Muhammad Syaridzwan , Md Fauzi Noor Faradiana , Mohd Alip Mohd Shukri , Kamaruzzaman Mohd Faiz
Published: October 2024

The Padang Chong Forest Reserve (PCFR) is a significant part of the Central Forest Spine (CFS) initiative, specifically A-PL2. However, the information regarding chiropterans in PCFR is not extensively documented. To address this gap, our study aims to comprehensively document the occurrence of bats at PCFR. Surveys on bats were conducted in PCFR for five sampling sessions between June and November 2022. Two study plots were established at a distance of 500 m (Plot 1, P1) and 1000 m (Plot 2, P2) from the forest edge. A total of 10 mist nets and three harp traps were deployed in each study plot to capture the bats. Overall, 102 individuals and 24 species from four families of bats were recorded in PCFR. The Papillose Woolly Bat (Kerivoula papillosa) was the most abundant species recorded in this study, followed by the Forest Short- nosed Fruit Bat (Cynopterus cf. brachyotis ‘Forest’), with 15 and 13 individuals, respectively. P1 recorded more bat species than P2, with 19 and 16 species, respectively. The detection of bats in the forest reserve might be influenced by the availability of roosting sites, food resources, and foraging areas. These findings provide a strong basis for developing conservation strategies, and management plans to protect bat habitats in Perak.
Surveys of Avifauna at Gunung Inas Forest Reserve in Kedah, Malaysia
Authors: Md Fauzi Noor Faradiana , Azman Mohammad Shahfiz , Baharudin Muhammad Syaridzwan , Ahmad Ruzman Nor Hazwani , Azahar Muhammad Asyraff , Appanan Manoshini , Modingin Dionysia
Published: October 2024

Surveys of avifauna were conducted at Gunung Inas Forest Reserve in Kedah, which constitutes under the Central Forest Spine (CFS) ecological corridor named K-PL1: Ulu Muda Forest Reserve – Gunung Inas Forest Reserve. The surveys were carried out in September and October 2023. The objective of the study is to update the checklist of avifauna recorded at the Gunung Inas Forest Reserve. In this study, two study plots of one-hectare each were established and referred to as Gunung Inas Forest Reserve I (Gunung Inas FR I) and Gunung Inas Forest Reserve II (Gunung Inas FR II). The one-hectare size plot consists of 10 transect lines. A total of 10 mist nets were deployed at each site. The mist-nets were set for five consecutive nights per session, with two sampling sessions per site. In additions, direct observations were also conducted especially for nocturnal and canopy-dwelling species. A total of 47 individuals, comprising 31 species of avifauna (18 families) were documented. In this study, Gunung Inas FR I obtained a higher number of recorded avifauna species with a total of 22 species (15 families), whilst Gunung Inas FR II harbor least records with 16 species (12 families). There is an additional of 28 species recorded during these surveys in comparison to the previous studies, thus, giving the overall cumulative avifauna species recorded is 84 species. Through these results, it is shown that this fragmented forest under K-PL1 still resides by a vast array of avifauna species. Hence, it is hoped that the significance of Gunung Inas FR as a vital habitat for these flying vertebrates can be further emphasized, and appropriate conservation measures must be taken to safeguard their population.
Species diversity and abundance of butterflies (Lepidoptera: Rhopalocera) in Lata Hokkaido, Jeli, Kelantan
Authors: Christianus Irene , Ismail Muhamad Nizam , Amir Aainaa , Kedri Farah Khaliz , Sukri Nor Sayzwani
Published: October 2024

Butterflies (Lepidoptera: Rhopalocera) serve as vital bioindicators for terrestrial environments and habitat quality, making them critical in biological monitoring and conservation efforts. Here, we report the first checklist of butterflies in Lata Hokkaido, Jeli, Kelantan. Butterflies were sampled for 14 consecutive days using fruit-baited traps and aerial net. In total, 303 butterflies belonging to 53 species from 11 subfamilies were documented. Coliadinae was the most dominant subfamily with four species and 60 individuals recorded, meanwhile, Morphinae represents the least recorded subfamily with just one species from one individual. The most abundant species were Eurema hecabe, Leptosia nina, and Mycalesis mineus. The Shannon-Wiener Index (H’ = 3.246) indicates a notable richness in butterfly diversity at Lata Hokkaido, supported by the Margalef’s Richness Index (M = 9.101) which highlights substantial species richness. The Pielou’s Evenness Index (J’ = 0.818) suggests a fairly even distribution of individuals across species. Aditionally, the species accumulation curve reached an asymptote, suggesting that most of the species present in the study area have been detected. This study provides valuable insights into the ecological significance of Lata Hokkaido as a habitat for butterflies and contributes to the broader understanding of butterfly diversity in this area.
Economic Valuation of Bukit Kiara Federal Park using the Hedonic Pricing Approach
Authors: Samad Nur Syafiqah A. , Mohammad Afandi Syamsul Herman , Sidek Syamsuriana , Hasbolah Hazrina , Shaari Nur Fatihah
Published: October 2024

Urban Green Space (UGS) is a part of urban modern cities living. The significance of the UGS has been outlined in Sustainable Development Goals 11 and 15. Nevertheless, the economic benefits of UGS are often overlooked due to a lack of understanding of their monetary value. This study estimates the economic value of Bukit Kiara Federal Park using the hedonic pricing model. The estimation was conducted by regressing the prices of 599 properties surrounding the park. The change in house pricing could estimate the marginal implicit price which represented the economic value of the park due to the change in its distance to the park (environmental attribute). The results show that reducing the distance by 100 meters increases the house price between RM1,800 and RM54,000 indicating the economic value of Bukit Kiara Federal Park. The study proved that the existence of environmental attributes, in this case, the proximity of a park, influences the house price in the vicinity. Recognizing these economic values will support the justification for developing and maintaining parks which may provide long-term benefits to the community and the environment.
To Buy Or Not To Buy: Consumers’ Perception And Purchasing Behaviour On Local Meat In Segamat, Johor
Authors: Abd Ghani@Ismail Rosmah , Isahak Siti Nordiyana , Mohd Ali Norfariza , Shaari Nur Fatihah , Ali Azman , Abd Majid Nurul Azna , Shahron Norman
Published: October 2024

Malaysia has experienced significant economic growth in recent decades, and this has accounted for an increase in meat consumption. In Malaysia, the low supply of local meat creates a shortage in the market, encouraging consumers to purchase imported meat. Factors such as regional growth differences, seasonality changes, food safety and quality, personal tastes and habits, product prices, and health concerns, influence the demand for meat. So, it is important to find out how people in Segamat, Johor, think about and buy local meat. A total of 100 questionnaires were distributed through an online platform as a pilot study resulting in 60 meat consumers participation. Results identified that the key drivers that influenced meat purchases were price of meat and consumers’ perception on food safety. Besides, consumer perception towards local meat is focusing on freshness of the meat (slaughtered on the day it is sold, not frozen) (91.67%), and the origin of the meat (not imported meat) (96.67%). The findings obtained will help in providing insightful information to local meat suppliers and the Johor State Department of Veterinary Services, about the concerns of local meat consumers in Segamat everytime they purchase the item.