bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding the Mellowing Effect of Bottle Aging on the Sensory and Aesthetic Perceptions of Varietal Dry White Wines
Authors: Marasà Giovanni , Ferreira Joana , Mota Mariana , Malfeito-Ferreira Manuel
Published: July 2024

The aging ability of dry white wines has been increasingly recognised. The present work aimed to understand which sensory factors drive their quality evaluation by experienced tasters. Individuals assessed several aesthetic, synthetic, and analytic flavour attributes, using dark tasting glasses. Wines originated from the grape varieties Alvarinho, Arinto, Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Bianco with a wide range of ages. Basic physical-chemical analysis, browning (Abs 420 nm), elemental composition and a partial volatile fraction were also determined. The overall quality scores were a function of complexity and balance and were negatively influenced by the perception of faultiness. The different ages could be associated with a continuous sensory space characterised by a decreasing perception of freshness and an increase in the mellowed flavours. All wines shared an austere in-mouth perception elicited by their acidity, saltiness, bitterness, smoothness and dryness. Nevertheless, quality scores were similar from the youngest to the oldest-tasted wines (17 years old). The exception was a Sauvignon Blanc wine from a recent vintage that was judged as faulty due to the perception of earthiness. Overall, the tasted wines displayed an unexpected aging ability as demonstrated by the difference between the predicted and real wine ages. To improve the recognition of old wines, the metaphor “mellowed by age” is proposed to describe flavours resulting from beneficial aging instead of “oxidised by age”.
Investigating School Principals' Burnout: A Cross-Cultural Perspective on Stress, Sustainability, and Organizational Climate
Authors: Sibisanu Remus , Cseminschi Stanislav , Ionica Andreea , Leba Monica , Draghici Anca , Nassar Yunis
Published: July 2024

Chronic stress, culminating in burnout, evolves gradually and is notoriously difficult to detect due to vague symptoms and individuals' hesitance to acknowledge their struggles. To expedite the identification and recognition of this condition, enabling timely psychological intervention, the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is increasingly considered. This research does not assert the feasibility of an AI system managing all aspects of chronic stress's impact. However, it highlights the capability of current technology to detect stress indicators based on quantifiable data like Heart Rate (HR) and organizational climate dimensions. Although other physiological markers such as oximetry, skin galvanic response, and EKG have been explored, they have not shown reliable differentiation between stress and joy. Focused on the unique context of school principals in the Bedouin regions of Israel, this study investigates the interplay between HR, organizational climate, and stress levels. It introduces a novel application of a fuzzy logic tool that combines HR and organizational climate metrics to aid in stress diagnosis. This tool incorporates the psychologist's expertise to provide real-time data crucial for developing effective coping strategies. While the AI-supported fuzzy system does not replace professional psychological intervention, it significantly enhances the speed of condition identification and intervention planning, thus shortening the response time to stress-related issues in educational leadership within culturally specific settings. The application of such AI-driven tools is pivotal for sustaining the well-being and effectiveness of educational leaders, thereby supporting the broader goal of educational sustainability.
High LETM1 Expression Associates with Impaired Mitophagy and Bad Prognosis in Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphomas and Acute Myeloid Leukemias
Authors: Salwa Amreen , Ferraresi Alessandra , Vallino Letizia , Maheshwari Chinmay , Moia Riccardo , Gaidano Gianluca , Isidoro Ciro
Published: July 2024

Leucine zipper-EF-hand containing transmembrane protein 1 (LETM1) is a mitochondrial inner membrane protein involved in mitochondrial morphology and homeostasis. LETM1 is highly expressed in many human solid cancers and correlates with poor prognosis possibly due to mitochondrial dysfunction. However, the functional role of LETM1 in the progression of hematological malignancies remains to be elucidated. In this study, we found that higher LETM1 expression was associated with a short overall survival in Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL) and in Acute Myeloid Leukemias (AML) patients. The transcriptomic analysis showed that LETM1 expression is positively correlated with oncogenic pathways (e.g., glucose transport, stem cell maintenance, mTOR and Wnt signaling pathways, mitotic G2/M phase transition, and cell proliferation) and negatively correlated with autophagy-related processes and apoptosis. In contrast, low expression of LETM1 associated with upregulation of BECLIN-1-dependent mitophagy, which in turn improves the prognosis in both DLBCL and AML patients. Our data suggest that LETM1 is a valuable prognostic marker and a possible therapeutic target for improving the clinical outcome in hematological malignancies.
Application of Experimental Configurations of Seismic and Electric Tomographic Techniques to the Investigation of Complex Geological Structures
Authors: Gkosios Vasileios , Alexopoulos John D. , Soukis Konstantinos , Giannopoulos Ioannis-Konstantinos , Dilalos Spyridon , Michelioudakis Dimitrios , Voulgaris Nicholas , Sphicopoulos Thomas
Published: July 2024

The main purpose of this study is the determination of the optimal data acquisition and processing parameters of electric and seismic tomographic techniques, for the investigation of complex geological environments. Two different study areas, in central-east Peloponnese and SW Attica were selected, where a detailed geological mapping and surface geophysical survey were carried out. The applied geophysical survey included the application of electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) and seismic refraction tomography (SRT). The geoelectrical measurements were acquired with different arrays and electrode configurations. Moreover, various types of seismic sources were used at seventeen shot locations along the seismic arrays. For the processing of geoelectrical data, clustered datasets were created increasing the depth of investigation and the discriminatory capability. The seismic data processing included: (a) creation of synthetic models and seismic records to determine the effectiveness and capabilities of the technique, (b) spectral analysis of the seismic records to determine the optimal seismic source type and (c) inversion of the field data to create representative subsurface velocity models. The results of the two techniques successfully delineated the complex subsurface structure that characterizes these two geological environments. The application of the ERT combined with the SRT, are the two dominant, high-resolution techniques for the elucidation of complex subsurface structures.
The Effects of High-Intensity, Low-Duration and Low-Intensity, High-Duration Hamstrings Static Stretching on Contralateral Limb Performance
Authors: Philpott Emily Jodean , Bahrami Mohammadmahdi , Sardroodian Mahta , Behm David George
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Increases in contralateral range of motion (ROM) have been shown following acute high-intensity and high-duration static stretching (SS) with no significant change in contralateral force, power, and muscle activation. There are currently no studies comparing the effects of a high-intensity, low-duration (HILD) or low-intensity, high-duration (LIHD) SS on contralateral performance. Purpose: The aim of this study was to examine how HILD and LIHD SS of the dominant leg hamstrings influence contralateral limb performance. Methods: Sixteen trained participants (8 females, 8 males) completed three SS interventions of the dominant leg hamstrings; 1) HILD (6x10s at maximal point of discomfort (POD)), 2) LIHD (6x30s at initial POD), and 3) control. Dominant and non-dominant ROM, maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) forces, muscle activation (electromyography (EMG)), unilateral CMJ and DJ heights were recorded pre-test and 1-minute post-test. Results: There were no significant contralateral ROM or performance changes. Following the HILD condition, the post-test ROM for the stretched leg (110.612.60) exceeded the pre-test (106.09.00) by 4.2% (p=0.008). Similarly, with LIHD, the stretched leg post-test (112.216.50) also exceeded (p=0.06) the pre-test ROM (109.316.20) by 2.6%. There were large magnitude impairments, evidenced by main effects for testing time for force, instantaneous strength, and associated EMG. A significant ROM interaction (p=0.02) showed that with LIHD, the stretched leg significantly (p=0.05) exceeded the contralateral leg by 13.4% post-test. Conclusion: The results showing no significant increase in contralateral ROM with either HILD or LIHD SS suggesting the interventions may not have been effective in promoting crossover effects.
Implementation of Methylation Profiling of Central Nervous System Tumors At Largest Public Health Center in Brazil
Authors: Wolff Beatriz Martins , Casal Yuri Reis , Vieira Lucas Liro , Carvalho Gleyson Francisco da Silva , Costa Mariana Ribeiro , da Silva Rafela Mendes , Chagas Maria Fernanda Freire , Rolim Lissandro Sousa , Oliveira Yanca Gasparini , Moura Eder Alencar , Costa Felipe D'Almeida , Kulikowski Leslie Domenici
Published: July 2024

Tumor entities of the Central Nervous System (CNS) are defined by the WHO
classification and range from benign neoplasms to highly malignant tumors, making
histopathological classification challenging. This diverse spectrum complicates clinical
decision-making and the interpretation and validation of clinical trial results. The
methodology based on DNA methylation profiling of CNS tumors offers greater
diagnostic precision compared to traditional morphological methods. In this study, we
analyzed 16 DNA samples from medulloblastomas and ependymomas, obtained from
paraffin-embedded blocks from the Pathology Division archives of HCFMUSP, and with
prior histological analysis. The samples were processed using the Infinium
MethylationEPIC BeadChip (Illumina®) and methylation data analysis tools in R Studio.
The data were submitted to the MolecularNeuropathology.org platform for methylation
based classification and CNV chart generation. The classifier was consistent with the
previous diagnosis in all cases, refining the diagnosis in 54% of cases to subclass, 38%
to subtype, and 8% to family. The platform also provided CNV estimates for 87% of
cases, revealing crucial information on genetic alterations such as gains, losses,
amplifications, and gene fusions. Despite the challenges of implementation within the
Brazilian Public Health System (SUS), the results demonstrate the method's robustness
and reproducibility, promising invaluable support for precise diagnoses and the
development of more effective therapeutic strategies.
Intersecting Influences: Exploring Intimate Partner Violence among Sudanese Refugees in the Great Plains
Authors: Abulbasher ِAbdelrahim , Yingling Julie
Published: July 2024

Research on intimate partner violence among refugee and immigrant communities in the United States has been extensive over the past three decades, but little attention has been given to Sudanese refugees. This qualitative study examines intimate partner violence within Sudanese refugee communities in the Great Plains region of the United States, focusing on how Sudanese cultural traditions influence such violence. The research employs a grounded theory approach, utilizing loosely structured in-depth interviews conducted in early 2015 with twenty male and female Sudanese refugees. Key findings from this study are as follows: 1) Male partners often use traditional cultural beliefs to justify psychological and physical violence. These cultural norms are invoked to maintain control over their partners, reflecting deeply ingrained attitudes towards discipline and gender roles. 2) A combination of low educational attainment, unemployment, and financial disputes contribute to the prevalence of intimate partner violence, especially when it intersects with the cultural context. Conflicts often arise from financial pressures, including the obligation to send remittances to relatives back in Sudan and managing household expenses. 3) Victims of intimate partner violence within this community are generally reluctant to involve the police. Instead, they prefer seeking help from traditional leaders, who are seen as more aligned with their cultural values and more likely to provide a culturally sensitive resolution. The study calls for further investigation into why Sudanese women prefer traditional leaders over police, considering distrust of law enforcement, fear of stigma, and perceived effectiveness of traditional methods. It also highlights the need to understand the challenges faced by women after their husbands' imprisonment, such as economic hardship and social isolation. Effective intervention requires a nuanced understanding of these cultural dynamics.
Exploring The Impact Of The Use Of Electronic Devices On Academic Procrastination Among University Students
Authors: Salguero-Pazos María , Reyes-de-Cózar Salvador
Published: July 2024

This study explores the incidence of using electronic devices on academic procrastination in university students. The procrastination profile, screen use habits, and perceived academic performance are analyzed, assessing the impact of screen use on the psychological dimensions of procrastination. An ad-hoc instrument and descriptive and correlational techniques were used for data analysis. The results reveal that procrastination is common among students, and they perceive their academic performance as good or very good with a similar result in their grade point average, indicating that procrastination does not seem to affect their performance significantly. About 50% report frequent use of screens, and although no widespread addictive behaviors are detected, 20% may be at risk of addiction. The dimensions of self-regulation, self-efficacy, and self-esteem show an inverse correlation with screen use, suggesting that less screen use improves these dimensions and reduces procrastination. In addition, high screen use is associated with higher levels of anxiety. Self-efficacy emerges as crucial to mitigating procrastination. In conclusion, although procrastination is prevalent, it does not appear to affect academic performance significantly, but excessive use of electronic devices negatively impacts key psychological dimensions and increases anxiety.
New Piezoceramic SrBi2Nb2-2xWxSnxO9: Crystal Structure, Microstructure and Dielectric Properties
Authors: Zubkov Sergei V. , Parinov Ivan A. , Nazarenko Alexander V.
Published: July 2024

By using the method of high-temperature solid-phase reaction, the new piezoceramic SrBi2Nb2-2xWxSnxO9 was obtained, in which partial substitution of niobium (Nb) atoms with Sn4+ and W6+ atoms in the compound SrBi2Nb2O9 took place in the octahedra of the perovskite layer (B-position). X-ray diffraction studies have shown that these compounds are single-phase SrBi2Nb2-2xWxSnxO9 (x = 0.1, 0.2) and two-phase SrBi2Nb2-2xWxSnxO9 (x = 0.3, 0.4), but they all had the structure of Aurivillius – Smolensky phases (ASPs) with similar parameters of orthorhombic elementary cells, corresponding to the spatial group A21am. The dependences on temperature of the relative permittivity ε/ε0 and the tangent of the loss angle tan d at different frequencies were measured.
The Impact of Liver Failure on the Immune System
Authors: Dąbrowska Alicja , Wilczyński Bartosz , Mastalerz Jakub , Kulbacka Julita , Szewczyk Anna , Rembiałkowska Nina
Published: July 2024

Background: Liver failure profoundly affects the immune system, leading to dysregulation of innate and adaptive immune responses.
Body: This review explores the intricate relationship between liver function and immune homeostasis. The role of the liver as a central hub in immune response initiation is elucidated, emphasizing its involvement in hepatic inflammation induction and subsequent systemic inflammation. Cytokines, chemokines, growth factors, and lipid mediators orchestrate these immune processes, serving as both prognostic biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets in liver failure-associated immune dysregulation. Furthermore, the review delves into the mechanisms underlying immunosuppression in liver failure, encompassing alterations in innate immune cell functions such as neutrophils, macrophages, and natural killer cells (NK cells), as well as perturbations in adaptive immune responses mediated by B and T cells.
Conclusion: Understanding the immunological consequences of liver failure is crucial for developing targeted therapeutic interventions and improving patient outcomes in liver disease management.
Phonemic Verbal Fluency to Predict Alzheimer’s Disease?
Authors: García-González Sara
Published: July 2024

Background: Among the cognitive markers of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), semantic and phonemic verbal fluency tasks seem to be an early indicator of deterioration. The aims of this study are 1) to evaluate both types of Verbal Fluency in the early stages of AD in order to know which of them deteriorates earlier and, 2) to investigate if Verbal Fluency Tasks can help to differentiate between patients with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) who will progress to AD two years later (progresses) and those who do not (non-progresses). Method: A Verbal Fluency Task was administered to 25 patients with MCI and their respective control subjects. All patients underwent a neuropsychological evaluation twice in order to follow up their global cognitive status. The second time, 8 of them converted to AD. Results: On the one hand, Phonemic Verbal Fluency deteriorates earlier than Semantic Verbal Fluency in MCI patients; on the second hand, although we found statistically significant differences between patients with MCI and AD in both type of fluency tasks, they were not found when comparing the performance of progresses and non-progresses. Conclusion: These results point to a greater impairment in Phonemic Verbal Fluency in MCI patients and its potential predictive capacity to predict conversion to AD.
Ultrasonic A-scan Signals Data Augmentation using Electromechanical System Modelling to Enhance Cataract Classification Methods
Authors: Santos Mário , Petrella Lorena , Perdigão Fernando , Santos Jaime
Published: July 2024

A thorough understanding of the type and severity of cataracts is crucial for accurately estimating the optimal phacoemulsification energy. In preceding research efforts, an innovative clinical prototype known as the Eye Scan Ultrasound System (ESUS) was developed to facilitate the automated characterization of cataracts. To evaluate the effectiveness of the prototype as a medical tool, extensive data must be collected from several patients with and without cataracts. However, obtaining an adequate number of patients and data for training and testing machine learning models is challenging. To overcome this limitation, the authors implemented a simulated prototype model of the ESUS system, to augment the data. The proposed model encompasses the electric-to-acoustic signal conversion in the ultrasonic transducer, the wave propagation through the eye, and the subsequent acoustic-to-electric signal conversion. Electrical modelling of the transducer was done using a two-port network and the wave propagation was modelled by using the k-Wave MATLAB toolbox. This holistic modelling approach enabled the generation of synthetic data augmentation, presenting great similarity with real data. The synthetic data can then be employed together with real data for the purpose of cataract classification.
A Blood Supply Pathophysiological Microcirculatory Mechanism for the Long COVID
Authors: Koutsiaris Aristotle G.
Published: July 2024

Background: The term “Long COVID” is commonly used to describe persisting symptoms after acute COVID‑19. Until now, proposed mechanisms for the explanation of Long COVID have not related quantitative measurements to basic laws. In this work, a common framework for the Long COVID pathophysiological mechanism is presented, based on the blood supply deprivation and the flow diffusion equation. Methods: Case-control studies with statistically significant differences between cases (post-COVID patients) and controls, from multiple tissues and geographical areas, were gathered and tabulated. Microvascular loss (ML) was quantified by vessel density reduction (VDR), foveal avascular zone enlargement (FAZE), capillary density reduction (CDR), and percentage of perfused vessels reduction (PPVR). Both ML and hemodynamic decrease (HD), were incorporated in the tissue blood supply reduction (SR) estimation. Results: ML data were found from 763 post-COVID patients with an average VDR, FAZE, CDR, and PPVR of 16%, 31%, 14%, and 21%, respectively. The average HD from 72 post-COVID patients was 37%. The estimated SR for multiple tissues with data from 634 post-COVID patients reached a sizeable 47%. This large SR creates conditions of lower mass diffusion rates, hypoxia, and undernutrition, which at a multi-tissue level, for a long time, can explain the wide variety of the Long COVID symptoms. Conclusions: Disruption of peripheral tissue blood supply by the contribution of both ML and HD is proposed here to be the principal cause of the mechanism leading to Long COVID symptoms.
Mechanistic Insight into the Antimicrobial Mode of Action of Usnic Acid and Its Synergy with Norfloxacin against Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Gangwar Bhavana , Kumar Santosh , Kumar Parmanand , Pal Anirban , Darokar Mahendra P.
Published: July 2024

In this study, global response analysis was performed to explore the mechanism of action of Usnic acid and its synergy with Norfloxacin, a well-known quinolone antibiotic to which MRSA clinical isolates showed resistance (MIC, 500 µg/mL). Microdilution assay, growth kinetics, microscopic analysis, and cell-based assays consistently showed that Usnic acid possess strong anti-staphylococcal activity (MIC, 7.8 µg/ml), causes cell leakage, modulates efflux pump activity, and synergizes with Norfloxacin against multi-drug resistant clinical isolate MRSA 2071. Whole cell proteome profiling using gel-free based nano-LC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS revealed several proteins whose expression was significantly modulated by Usnic acid and Norfloxacin alone or in combination. Usnic acid downregulated the abundance of RNA polymerase subunits (RpoB, RpoC), carbamoyl phosphate synthase large subunit (PyrAB), chaperone (GroEL), and adenylosuccinate synthetase (PurA). Interestingly, proteins found to be upregulated in the presence of Usnic acid and Norfloxacin included oxidative stress-related proteins such as peroxidase (Tpx), alkyl hydroperoxide reductase (AphC), and general stress protein (UspA). This study clearly showed that Usnic acid affects numerous cellular targets and can potentiate the action of Norfloxacin. Furthermore, an in-vivo study emphasized the use of Usnic acid to develop as a safe phytopharmaceutical to repurpose old antibiotics through combination therapy against MRSA infections.
An Assessment of Agent-Based Modelling Tools for Community-Based Adaptation to Climate Change
Authors: Selje Tom , Islam Rayhan , Heinz Boris
Published: July 2024

Human induced climate change led to the recognition of Community-Based Adaptation (CBA) as one of the remedies in building adaptive capacity and resilience of communities. It recognizes the agency of communities in shaping the optimal strategy. CBA interventions are vital in addressing community needs and contextual specificities, enable participatory and inclusive engagement and thereby facilitate more profound adaptation impacts. Agent-based modelling (ABM) has the potential to be an invaluable approach in developing tailored adaptation strategies considering capacities, resources, skills, priorities, needs and the cultural context of local communities. ABM allows to capture the complex relationships among various components within community decision making on CBA actions, the CBA actions themselves and the environment, however available tools provide for various degrees of freedom in agent definition, sensitivity analysis, scalability, experiment design and output analysis to name a few. This article assesses all available ABM modelling and simulation tools for its application in the context of CBA. NetLogo emerges as the most suitable tool for incorporating and handling the special features of CBA. It is closely followed by GAMA and Envision. The article provides insights and guidance to researchers and practitioners in selecting ABM tools aligned with the specific requirements of their CBA simulations and projects.
Resting-State EEG Alterations of Practice-Related Spectral Activity and Connectivity Patterns in Depression
Authors: Tatti* Elisa , Cinti Alessandra , Serbina Anna , Luciani Adalgisa , D’Urso Giordano , Cacciola Alberto , Quartarone Angelo , Ghilardi Maria Felice
Published: July 2024

Background: Depression presents with altered energy regulation and neural plasticity. Previous electroencephalography (EEG) studies showed that practice increases power in beta range (13-30 Hz) in healthy subjects but not in those with impaired plasticity. Here, we ascertain whether depression presents with alterations of spectral activity and connectivity before and after practice. Methods: We used publicly available resting state EEG (64 electrodes) of 122 subjects. Based on Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) score, they were assigned to either high BDI (hBDI, BDI>13, N=46) or control (CTL, BDI<7, N=75) group. We analyzed spectral activity, theta-beta and theta-gamma phase-amplitude coupling (PAC) of EEG recorded before and after a learning task. Results: At baseline, compared to CTL, hBDI group exhibited greater beta power over fronto-parietal regions and gamma over right parieto-occipital area. After practice, increases in all frequency ranges were observed only in CTL. Theta-beta and theta-gamma PAC were greater in hBDI before the task but not after the task. Conclusions: The lack of substantial post-task growth of beta power in depressed subjects likely represents power saturation due to greater baseline values. We speculate that inhibitory/excitatory imbalance, altered plasticity mechanisms, and energy dysregulation present in depression may contribute to this phenomenon.
Machine Learning Method for Approximate Solutions for Reaction-Diffusion Equations with Multivalued Interaction Functions
Authors: Kasyanov Pavlo O. , Kapustyan Oleksiy V. , Levenchuk Liudmyla B. , Novykov Vladyslav R.
Published: July 2024

This paper presents machine learning methods for approximate solutions of reaction-diffusion equations with multivalued interaction functions. This approach addresses the challenge of finding all possible solutions for such equations, which often lack uniqueness. The proposed method utilizes physics-informed neural networks (PINNs) to approximate generalized solutions.
Optimization of Lost Foam Coating Performance: Effects of Blade Shape, Stirring Speed, and Drying Temperature on Viscosity, Coating Weight, and Surface Morphology
Authors: Sun Guojin , Li Zhenggui , Wang Qi
Published: July 2024

This study investigates the impact of blade shape, stirring speed, and stirring time on the performance of lost foam casting coatings, specifically focusing on their viscosity, coating weight, and surface morphology. Commercially available lost foam coating materials were used, with varying blade shapes employed in high-speed dispersers. The effects of different stirring speeds and durations on coating viscosity and coating weight were systematically analyzed. It was observed that blade shape significantly influences the uniformity and performance of the coating. Among the blade shapes tested, the three-blade configuration demonstrated the highest efficiency in achieving uniform mixing, with optimal viscosity and coating weight. Stirring speed was found to have a minor effect on viscosity but a notable impact on coating weight, with speeds of 800 to 1200 rpm producing consistent results. Stirring time was shown to stabilize viscosity and coating weight after reaching a certain duration, beyond which no significant changes were observed. Drying behavior was analyzed at various temperatures, revealing that higher temperatures led to increased surface roughness and more pronounced cracks.
Pre-Dam Vltava River Valley—A Case Study of 3D Visualization of Large-scale GIS Datasets in Unreal Engine
Authors: Janovský Michal
Published: July 2024

This article explores the potential of the Unreal Engine game engine as a tool for creating highly realistic 3D visualizations of GIS data, specifically in the context of significant historical areas. The research will focus on the computational techniques used in the 3D visualization of GIS data and the Unreal Engine software and its potential applications in geomatics. The article also presents several relevant scientific studies and projects that have successfully used game engines for similar purposes, explores the potential for using GIS data within a game engine, including plug-ins that provide additional functionality to GIS software, and the use of procedural modeling to create 3D objects through the CityEngine software plug-in. Finally, the research is applied to a dataset of the historical Vltava Valley covering an area of 1670 km2 to demonstrate the capabilities of Unreal Engine in creating realistic visualizations of large historical landscapes, and the resulting visualizations are presented. This practical application of the research provides valuable insights into the potential of the Unreal Engine as a powerful tool for creating highly realistic 3D visualizations of large historical areas with potential applications in the field of geomatics.
Integration of CBL-PBL Teaching Method with Scenario Simulation for Enhanced Midwifery Training in Postpartum Hemorrhage: A Quasi-experimental Study
Authors: Yang Yike , Guo Zhichao , Guo Xiaoyue , Zhao Yangyu
Published: July 2024

Background
Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) remains the leading cause of maternal mortality globally, necessitating focused attention from midwifery professionals. To mitigate severe complications and improve maternal outcomes, regular and effective training in PPH rescue techniques is essential.
Aim
To assess the efficacy of the combination of case-based learning (CBL) and problem-based learning (PBL) with simulation teaching methods to enhance the technical proficiency of midwifery trainees in managing PPH
Methods
This quasi-experimental study included 76 trainees who received PPH training at Peking University Third Hospital from March to July 2023; they were divided into two groups: the control group (n = 50), which followed traditional simulation training methods, and the research group (n = 26), which used a combination of CBL-PBL and scenario simulation. After training, all participants completed a questionnaire to evaluate their satisfaction with the training program and to measure improvements in clinical thinking, practical skills, relevant knowledge, team cooperation, and management abilities. Statistical analysis was conducted using unpaired t-tests and chi-square tests to compare the groups.
Findings
The combination of CBL-PBL with scenario simulation was found to be highly satisfactory compared with the traditional simulation training. This approach significantly enhanced self-assessed skills among midwifery trainees in the research group. Additionally, a majority of trainees expressed a preference for the inclusion of regular simulation exercises and detailed discussions on PPH cases in future training sessions.
Conclusion
Combining CBL-PBL with simulation practice is a more effective teaching method for PPH management training than traditional methods. Future studies should explore the implementation of regular PPH rescue skill training and its effectiveness in real clinical settings to substantiate these findings.
3D Seismic Density Models of the Earth’s Crust and Structural Diagrams of Tectonic Zoning of the Middle Urals
Authors: Byzov D.D. , Martyshko P.S. , Ladovskii I.V. , Tsidaev A.G.
Published: July 2024

—For the territory of the Middle Urals segment, a high-resolution grid density model of the upper part of the lithosphere was constructed (grid step is 500 m) to the depth of 80 km – the first regional level of isostatic compensation. The spatial framework of density sections serves as the basis for a three-dimensional (3D) interpolated density model – an initial approximation model. The corrections to the density model of the initial approximation are found from the solution of the linear inverse gravimetry problem of practically meaningful correctness sets of density equivalents. The fairly thin horizontal layers of the grid density model are selected as such sets. The method and technology to calculate 3D density distribution with reference to 2D data along reference seismic sections are embedded in the methodology for quantitative interpretation of potential fields with the construction of 3D geophysical models. The relief of the internal boundary surfaces of the upper, middle and lower crust is compared to the structural scheme of tectonic zoning along the surface of the basement. To construct tectonic schemes, lithostatic pressure anomalies are also used; they are calculated from a general integral characteristic – the mass of density columns from the Earth’s surface to a given depth. Anomalies of lithostatic pressure for each layer of a 3D grid density model are proportional to excessive density within the layer, so that a density model is easily converted into a lithostatic model. 3D anomalies of lithostatic pressure clearly configure the block structure of the earth’s crust at different depth sections. In the projection at the surface of the middle and lower crust, the contours of lithostatic anomalies correspond to the tectonic zoning scheme of the basement, built based on potential fields. A comparison of ‘block diagrams’ of density and lithostatic models is used to identify structural elements of different order of deep tectonic zoning at different depth sections.
Age and Petrogenesis of Paleoproterozoic Diorites from Dikes of the Baikal Uplift of the Siberian Craton
Authors: Donskaya T.V. , Gladkochub D.P. , Kotov A.B. , Sal’nikova E.B. , Badashkova E.E. , Mazukabzov A.M. , Kovach V.P. , Efremova U.S.
Published: July 2024

—We carried out a detailed geological, geochronological, geochemical, and isotope study of diorites from a dike located in the central part of the Baikal uplift of the Siberian craton. The geochemical and isotope data obtained for diorites of the studied intrusion were compared with coeval mafic and intermediate igneous rocks of the southern part of the Siberian craton. The U–Pb (ID-TIMS) baddeleyite age of 1862 ± 7 Ma has been estimated for diorite from a dike located in the area of the Onguren Village. The obtained data are the first reliable age determination for the Paleoproterozoic mafic and intermediate igneous rocks of the Baikal uplift, which are part of the South Siberian postcollisional magmatic belt. The dike is of NE strike. The dike rocks correspond in chemical composition to diorites and are highly differentiated varieties (mg# = 36.5–37.4). There are no significant variations in the composition of diorites in the marginal and central parts of the dike. The rocks are characterized by low contents of TiO2, P2O5, and Nb, high contents of Th, Zr, Ba, and LREE, and low negative values of εNd(T) (–5.9 to –6.2). We assume that the diorites formed from the enriched subcontinental lithospheric mantle. The obtained geochemical and isotope data show similar negative values of εNd(T) from –4.3 to –11.6 for most of Paleoproterozoic mafic and intermediate igneous rocks of the South Siberian postcollisional magmatic belt within the Aldan Shield, the Baikal uplift, and the Irkut block of the Sharyzhalgai uplift. These rocks correspond in geochemical features to rocks resulted from the melting of subduction-modified lithospheric mantle sources in the postcollisional extension setting at the final Paleoproterozoic stage of formation of the Siberian craton.
Pore-Scale Study on the Effect of SO2 on Hydrate-Based CO2 Sequestration in a High-Pressure Microfluidic Chip
Authors: Zhang Lifu , Wang Zhe , Lu Wanjun
Published: July 2024

To mitigate the effects of greenhouse gases, the sequestration of greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide (CO2) in seafloor sediments in the form of hydrates has become a safe and efficient method. If sulfur dioxide (SO2), one of the flue gas impurities, is also sequestered, the cost of CO2 purification and sequestration can be effectively reduced. However, there is a lack of in-situ observation of how SO2 affects the nucleation and growth process of CO2 hydrates. In this study, a visual microfluidic chip combined with in-situ Raman spectroscopy was used for the first time to investigate the impact mechanism of SO2 on the nucleation and growth kinetics of CO2 hydrates in porous media. The results indicate that SO2 could promote the nucleation and growth of CO2 hydrate in the following aspects: First, the diffusion of SO2 in solution induces spontaneous convection of the solution in the pores, which could promote the nucleation of mixed hydrates. After nucleation, dissolved SO2 acts as a “seed” for hydrate formation, and the pore solution is covered with hydrate microcrystals, providing heterogeneous nucleation sites for hydrate growth in solution. During the growth stage, SO2 could induce the preferential growth of mixed hydrates within the solution and enhance the growth rate of hydrates, acting as a promoter of hydrate formation. As CO2-SO2 mixed hydrates preferentially grow in solution and grow denser, it could quickly cement the pores, which could significantly improve the stability of the reservoir and form a strong hydrate barrier in the reservoir. These findings have important theoretical value and guiding significance for the synchronous sequestration of CO2-SO2 by hydrates.
Image Encryption based on Compressed Sensing, Chaotic System and Slant Haar Type Orthogonal Transform
Authors: xiang xiuqiao , jiang yuhong , Shang Jianga
Published: July 2024

In the era of big data, how to encrypt image and ensure image security is an important research hot spot. In this paper, an efficient image encryption scheme is put forward based on Slant Haar Type Orthogonal transform (SHTOT) and compressed sensing (CS) combined with chaotic system. First, the original image is transformed by our proposed SHTOT, which contains specific parameters that may be regarded as encryption key. Then, the transformed coefficients are compressed and measured simultaneously by using CS, during which some pseudo random sequences produced by a chaotic system coupling sine mapping and logistic mapping are employed to generate the measurement matrix for CS. Next, Arnold transform is utilized to the scrambling of the CS measured values. Based on this, some other pseudo random sequences are used to the modification of the quantized CS measured values. Finally, the decryption operation is performed according to the reverse process described above and a blind Sparsity Adaptive Matching Pursuit algorithm in CS is applied to the image reconstruction. Simulation and experimental analysis demonstrate that the image encryption scheme provided in this paper has good performance in the image compression and encryption from the perspective of visual effect, information entropy, correlation coefficient, key sensitivity, key space and robustness.
Exploring the Link between Physiological Development and Intellectual Proficiency among Middle School Students in Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture, Gansu Province, China
Authors: Wang Yanling , Li Qinglin , Zhen Jing , Sun Wei , He Aiwei , Zhu Xiaonan
Published: July 2024

OBJECTIVES: Is there a correlation between the growth trajectory of middle school students and their intelligence proficiency.
METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in 2019, involving a total cohort of 1682 students.This survey assess their growth and development status by measuring height and weight and calculating body mass index (BMI). The intelligence of the sampled students was evaluated using the second revision of the Chinese Combined Raven Test (CRT-C2). Ordered logistic regression analysis was employed to comprehensively explore the relationship between their growth and developmental status and IQ.
RESULTS: This height disparity between male and female was statistically significant (χ2 = 28.746, p = 0.000). Gender-based differences were observed in IQ scores, with girls outscoring boys (χ2 = 26.1, p = 0.000). Younger students exhibited higher IQ scores (χ2 =498.959, p = 0.000). Further analysis demonstrated that growth retardation (OR = 2.675, 95%CI 1.189~6.018, p = 0.017), wasting(OR = 1.683, 95%CI 1.016~2.561, p = 0.015), overnutrition (OR = 1.748, 95%CI 1.214~2.516, p = 0.003), low height development (OR=1.816, 95%CI 1.313~2.511, p = 0.000) and middle height development (OR = 1.433, 95%CI 1.095~1.875, p = 0.009) were identified as risk factors for middle school students in this region.
CONCLUSION: The research highlights significant that growth retardation, wasting, overnutrition , low and middle height development were detrimental to intellectual development among middle school students in the region.
Evaluating the efficacy of Lactobacillus acidophilus derived Postbiotics on Growth metrics, Health, and Gut Integrity in Broiler Chickens
Authors: Monika M , Tyagi Jagbir Singh , Sonale Nagesh , Biswas Avishek , Murali Dinesh , Sky . , Rokade Jaydip Jaywant , Tiwari A.K.
Published: July 2024

Continuous use of antibiotics in poultry feed as growth promoters poses a grave threat to humanity through the emergence of antibiotic resistance, necessitating the exploration of novel and sustainable alternatives. The present study was carried out to evaluate the performance of postbiotics derived from Lactobacillus acidophilus in broiler birds. The postbiotics were harvested by culturing probiotic bacteria from the stock cultures at the required temperature and duration under laboratory conditions and supplemented to broilers via feed. For experimentation, 480-day-old CARI-Bro Dhanraja (slow-growing broiler) straight-run chicks were randomly split up into six groups. Treatment groups diets are as follows: T1- Basal diet (BD); T2 – BD + Antibiotic (CTC); T3- BD + Probiotic; T4, T5 & T6 – BD + postbiotics supplementation of 0.2%, 0.4% and 0.6% respectively. The chicks were raised under an intensive, deep litter system with standard protocol for 6 weeks. Results showed that 0.2% of postbiotics (T4) had significantly (P < 0.001) higher body weight (1677.52g) with better FCR (1.75) and immune response. Postbiotic supplementation altered various serum attributes positively, in this study. Significant (P < 0.001) reductions in total plate counts (TPC), coliform counts, and maximum Lactobacillus counts were recorded in all postbiotic-supplemented groups. The villus height (1379.25 µm), width (216.06 µm) and crept depth (179.25 µm) showed significant (P < 0.001) improvement among the treatment groups on the 21st and 42nd day of the experimental trial, with the highest value in the T4 group (0.2% postbiotic supplementation). Jejunal antioxidant values also noted significantly (P < 0.001) higher values in T4 group. The study concludes that 0.2% postbiotic supplementation can act as a substitute to antibiotic growth promoters and also combat the disfavour activity of probiotics in broilers.
Analyzing Carbon Emission Reduction Driven by Digital Transformation: Evidence from China's Northwest Region Using GTWR-BP Neural Network Model
Authors: Tao Zhou , Li Li
Published: July 2024

This study is based on panel data from 30 prefecture-level cities in Northwest China from 2011 to 2021, providing an in-depth analysis of the impact of digital transformation on carbon emissions, with a detailed examination from a spatial perspective. The research findings indicate that digital transformation plays a significant role in curbing regional carbon emissions, exhibiting notable spatiotemporal heterogeneity. Specifically, the average value of the carbon reduction effect of digitalization decreased from -5.0792 to -3.05602 over time, indicating a gradual weakening of the carbon reduction effect. However, neural network predictions suggest a potential rebound in the digital carbon reduction effect from 2022 to 2024, with an expected value of -0.14617 in 2022, eventually reaching -0.5063 in 2024. Despite the relatively weak foundation for digital development in Northwest China, which has led to a diminished carbon reduction effect, the ongoing advancement of digital transformation is expected to overcome technical lags, reduce energy consumption, and lower carbon emissions. The study highlights that the improvement in the level of digital transformation primarily operates through two mechanisms: industrial structure upgrading and economic level enhancement, promoting the transition of traditional industries towards low-carbon directions, while simultaneously increasing production and consumption efficiency, thereby reducing resource and energy consumption. These findings provide important references for formulating relevant policies, suggesting the enhancement of infrastructure construction and the promotion of digital transformation to achieve the "dual carbon" goals and foster sustainable economic development.
ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI): A 10-year Review form a primary PCI capable hospital in Tanzania
Authors: kassam Nadeem , Varwani Mohamed , Ngunga Mzee , Jeilan Mohamed , Mabusi Mangaro , Orwa James , Surani Salim , Mvungi Robert , Jamal Nasiruddin
Published: July 2024

Background
Ischemic Heart Disease (IHD) is an emerging epidemic in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Despite the true burden underestimated in the African continent, it remains the leading cause of death among adults aged above 60 years. ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI) is a clinically time-sensitive fatal sequela of IHD with timely reperfusion by primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI) considered the gold standard of care. Tanzania has witnessed a gradual and continued development in the ability to provide coronary care and a simultaneous increase in risk factors associated with IHD. There is paucity of available data in the country.
Methodology
This single-center retrospective study was conducted at the Aga Khan Hospital Dar-es-Salaam (AKHD), Tanzania. The AKHD is one of the pioneers in establishing the first cardiac catheterization laboratory in the nation. The current study involved extracting relevant data of all patients who presented with STEMI from August 2014 to December 2023. Descriptive statistics were used to define the population. Patient’s outcomes were based on hospital survival. Binary logistic regression was run (at 95% CI and p-value < 0.05) to identify the determinants for in-hospital mortality.
Results
230 patients were included in the final analysis. The cohort was predominantly male (n=192,83.5%), with a median age was 55.0 years (IQR 48.0-65.0). Most patients presented with chest pain (n=162,72.6%), with a median duration of 12.2 hours (IQR 3.0-24.0 hours). The left Anterior descending (LAD) artery was the culprit vessel in most cases (n=112,48.7%). A total of 163(70.8%) patients underwent Primary-PCI. The in-hospital mortality of the cohort was 5.7%. When survivors and non-survivors were compared, a higher percentage of non-survivors were diabetic (n=12,92.3%), hypertensive (n=12,92.3%) and having a history of cigarette smoking(n=11,84.6%) (P- value <0.05). A higher mean BMI of 36.2 (±5.7) (OR 1.46, CI 1.17– 2.10), the presence of smoking (OR 41.68, CI 2.60– 240.71), and the need for mechanical ventilation (OR 77.42, CI 1.95– 128.89) were factors associated with in-hospital mortality.
Conclusion
Our study results demonstrate lower in-hospital mortality for STEMI patients compared to other regional studies. Cigarette smoking, obesity and the need for mechanical ventilation were predictors of poor in-hospital outcomes.