bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The global impact of financial development on renewable energy in a panel structural vector autoregression analysis
Authors: Wang Xinxin , Xu Zeshui , Qin Yong , Skare Marinko
Published: November 2022

Financial development is likely to benefit the use of renewable energies, particularly those lacking environmental conditions and significant external capital. However, the impact of financial development on alternative renewable energy sources has yet to be documented in different income‐level countries. Using a unique panel data set of 62 countries with three income levels for the 2000–2019 period, we investigate how financial development impacts renewable energy on a global scale by using a panel structural vector autoregression analysis (PSVAR). Our empirical findings indicate that financial development significantly affects renewable energy installment and consumption, while FDI takes a negative impact on SOL sources. We further find that wind energy source to financial development shock exhibits a higher impact in high‐income countries. Our findings provide new insights concerning renewable energy in different countries using the PSVAR model, which may inspire scholars interested in this research field.
Multifunctional Folic acid‐coated and Doxorubicin Encapsulated Mesoporous Silica Nanocomposites (FA/DOX@Silica) for Cancer Therapeutics, Bioimaging and invitro Studies
Authors: Kumar Hemant , Kumar Jitender , Pani Balaram , Kumar Pramod
Published: November 2022

Cancer is a cluster of diseases, which caused by the mutation in cells and it has the potential to cover any part of the body. The whole world is vigorously struggling to find a safe approach to cure the cancer. The classical chemotherapy approach involves the use of chemotherapeutic agents to kill cancer cells. The major disadvantage of therapy is less in vivo stability and negatively affects the healthy cells. Nowadays, the targeted drug delivery techniques has gained lots of interest, because of the efficient drug release at the cancerous sites. Herein, we have synthesized Folic acid (FA) coated and Doxorubicin drug (Dox) encapsulated mesoporous silica nanocomposites (FA/Dox@Silica)for targeted delivery of DOX and bioimaging. Encapsulation of Dox was done to make it more stable in the cell atmosphere and for its controlled release. The coating of FA makes these nanocomposites makes them an vehical for chemically targeted delivey of DOX, as it was already confirmed by several studies that there are folate receptors present over cancer cells and these reseptors are responsive towards the FA Thus these nanocomposites can be easily recognized by the cancer cells and they can efficiently deliver drugs. The shape, size, morphology, crystallinity, porosity, and fictionalizations were analyzed by using several characterization techniques such as DLS, TEM, and FTIR. The drug loading was confirmed qualitatively by using optical spectroscopic techniques. The drug release pattern was studiedfor the 15 days which showed the sustained and regulated release of drug from the mesoporous silica nanocomposites. Cellular uptake was observed by cell staining assay confirmed the fair uptake of nanoparticles.
Synthesis of Chromone‐Spiroindolinone‐Cyclopentene Derivatives through Phosphine‐Catalyzed (3+2) Annulation of Morita‐Baylis‐Hillman Carbonates with Oxindole‐Chromones
Authors: Wang Bo , Hu Yimin , Guo Hongchao , Tao Lei
Published: November 2022

Various multifunctional chromone‐spiroindolinone‐cyclopentene derivatives were synthesized through a phosphine‐catalyzed (3+2) annulation of Morita‐Baylis‐Hillman (MBH) carbonates with oxindole‐chromones in generally high yields with good to excellent diastereoselectivities. The synthetic method has several advantages such as mild reaction conditions, wide substrate scope, high yields and good stereoselectivity. The gram‐scale reaction indicated the synthetic method could be a practical tool for synthesis of spirocyclic compounds and will find a nice application in the synthesis of diverse biologically important compounds.
Construction of Different Cyanine Dye Supramolecular Aggregates Induced by Rare Earth Ions
Authors: Ma Xiaoying , Shi Lei , Fu Yao , Zhang Buyue , Zhang Xiufeng
Published: November 2022

In recent years, the assembly of cyanine dye supramolecular aggregates has been a very important task because its photophysical and photochemical properties are widely used in many scientific fields, such as, materials, biomedical and industrial. In this work, H‐ and J‐aggregates of cyanine dyes were constructed under controllable conditions, and a simple method was developed to achieve cycle induction around these aggregates which induced by rare earth ions, and the process can be repeated for many cycles. Assembly and circulation induce these aggregates to be easy to manipulate and identify, which can be directly observed with the naked eye. This simple supramolecular assembly provides another direction in the field of sensors, while bringing a new idea to the control of supramolecular aggregates.
Optimization of Zinc and Germanium Recovery Process from Zinc Oxide Dust by Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Xu Yingjie , Xia Hongying , Zhang Qi , Cai Wuchen , Jiang Guiyu , Zhang Libo
Published: November 2022

Based on the problems existing in the existing process, the ultrasonic field enhanced potassium dichromate atmospheric leaching of zinc and germanium in zinc oxide dust was studied, and three main factors (liquid‐solid ratio, leaching temperature and potassium dichromate concentration) were optimized by the Box‐Behnken design (BBD) model. XRD, ICP‐OES, EPMA and SEM results show that the occurrence state of Ge is highly correlated with ZnS. Promoting the dissolution of ZnS is the basis for improving the leaching rates of Zn and Ge. Finally, under the conditions of liquid‐solid ratio of 7 mL/g, leaching temperature of 90 °C and potassium dichromate concentration of 19.16 g/L, the leaching rates of zinc and germanium were 99.968 % and 90.395 %, respectively. The error between the prediction results of the quadratic model and the experimental results is small, and the correlation coefficients are greater than 0.99, indicating that the model is credible.
Construction of a Magnetic γ‐Fe2O3/h‐BN Composite for Tetracycline Degradation by Visible‐Light‐Initiated Peroxydisulfate
Authors: Wang Tao , Liu Xiqing , Liao Runhua , Zhan Hongquan , Wang Yongqing
Published: November 2022

Developing a novel and highly efficient catalytic oxidation system for environmental protection was an important task. In this work, inspired by the photocatalytic system and peroxydisulfate (PDS) system, the magnetic γ‐Fe2O3/h‐BN composite was designed for synergetic catalytic. The tetracycline was selected to study the degradation activity of all‐obtained samples. Among, the sample with a weight ratio of 7 % has the optimum catalytic performance. The enhanced catalytic performance was attributed to the separation of electron‐hole pairs and contact with pollutant of γ‐Fe2O3/h‐BN composite. Under visible‐light illumination, the γ‐Fe2O3/h‐BN composite could generate superoxide free radicals (O2.−)) and holes (h+) to decompose pollutant, while the addition of PDS, the PDS would excite to generate hydroxyl radicals (⋅OH) and sulfate radicals (SO4.−) for further degrading pollutant. Under optimal condition, the degradation rate reached 90 % within 90 min. In addition, the investigation of tetracycline (TC) degradation under different experimental conditions (pH, catalyst dosage, PDS concentration, various salt) was conducted. This study provided a novel synergetic catalytic system for wastewater treatment.
The Experimental Design Approach in Square‐Wave Voltammetric Determination of Tamoxifen by NiO‐CPE**
Authors: Raeisi‐Kheirabadi Neda , Nezamzadeh‐Ejhieh Alireza
Published: November 2022

Due to the explosive global increase of various cancers, the need to introduce/develop novel catalysts/sensors for quantitative determination of cancer drugs is emphasized. Nickel oxide nanoparticles (NiO‐NPs) calcined at 200 °C were used as a modifier of carbon paste electrode (CPE) to quantify tamoxifen (TAM) in an aqueous solution. The square wave voltammetry (SqW) was used due to its high sensitivity. The modified NiO‐CPE showed an SqW anodic peak current with a peak potential of about 420 mV in the NaOH‐supporting electrolyte. This peak current was decreased when TAM analyte was added to the test solution. Thus, this reduced peak current (Δi) was used to quantify TAM in solution. The experimental design used the response surface methodology (RSM) approach to study the simultaneous interaction effects between the influencing variables. The optimized run was associated with a 10 % NiO ingredient in the CPE, 0.3 M NaOH, an amplitude of 200 mV, a step potential of 3 mV, and a frequency of 25 Hz. A proportional behavior was obtained between the mentioned Δi and TAM concentration in the range of 10–60 nM. The detection (LOD) and quantification (LOQ) limits were 1.81±0.35 and 6.05±0.24 nM, respectively. Interfering and recovery results confirmed the applicability of the proposed NiO‐CPE electrode for TAM determination in complex matrixes and the direct assay of the drug in human serum.
Defect‐Rich Single Atom Catalyst Enhanced Polysulfide Conversion Kinetics to Upgrade Performance of Li–S Batteries
Authors: Jing Weitao , Tan Qiang , Duan Yue , Zou Kunyang , Dai Xin , Song Yuanyuan , Shi Ming , Sun Junjie , Chen Yuanzhen , Liu Yongning
Published: November 2022

Lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries have attracted considerable attention owing to their extremely high energy densities. However, the application of Li–S batteries has been limited by low sulfur utilization, poor cycle stability, and low rate capability. Accelerating the rapid transformation of polysulfides is an effective approach for addressing these obstacles. In this study, a defect‐rich single‐atom catalytic material (Fe‐N4/DCS) is designed. The abundantly defective environment is favorable for the uniform dispersion and stable existence of single‐atom Fe, which not only improves the utilization of single‐atom Fe but also efficiently adsorbs polysulfides and catalyzes the rapid transformation of polysulfides. To fully exploit the catalytic activity, catalytic materials are used to modify the routine separator (Fe‐N4/DCS/PP). Density functional theory and in situ Raman spectroscopy are used to demonstrate that Fe‐N4/DCS can effectively inhibit the shuttling of polysulfides and accelerate the redox reaction. Consequently, the Li–S battery with the modified separator achieves an ultralong cycle life (a capacity decay rate of only 0.03% per cycle at a current of 2 C after 800 cycles), and an excellent rate capability (894 mAh g−1 at 3 C). Even at a high sulfur loading of 5.51 mg cm−2 at 0.2 C, the reversible areal capacity still reaches 5.4 mAh cm−2.
Promoting Electrocatalytic CO2 Reduction to CH4 by Copper Porphyrin with Donor–Acceptor Structures
Authors: Yu Pinger , Lv Ximeng , Wang Qihao , Huang Haoliang , Weng Weijun , Peng Chen , Zhang Linjuan , Zheng Gengfeng
Published: November 2022

Molecular catalysts have been receiving increasingly attention in the electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) with attractive features such as precise catalytic sites and tunable ligands. However, the insufficient activity and low selectivity of deep reduction products restrain the utilization of molecular catalysts in CO2RR. Herein, a donor–acceptor modified Cu porphyrin (CuTAPP) is developed, in which amino groups are linked to donate electrons toward the central CuN4 site to enhance the CO2RR activity. The CuTAPP catalyst exhibited an excellent CO2‐to‐CH4 electroreduction performance, including a high CH4 partial current density of 290.5 mA cm−2 and a corresponding Faradaic efficiency of 54.8% at –1.63 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode in flow cells. Density functional theory calculations indicated that CuTAPP presented a much lower energy gap in the pathway of producing *CHO than Cu porphyrin without amino group modification. This work suggests a useful strategy of introducing designed donor–acceptor structures into molecular catalysts for enhancing electrochemical CO2 conversion toward deep reduction products.
Security risks of global software development life cycle: Industry practitioner's perspective
Authors: Khan Rafiq Ahmad , Khan Siffat Ullah , Akbar Muhammad Azeem , Alzahrani Musaad
Published: November 2022

Software security has become increasingly important because the malicious attack and other hacker risks of a computer system have grown popularity in the last few years. As a result, several researchers have examined security solutions as early as the requirement engineering phase. With the growth of the software business and the internet, there is a need to understand the security risks against each phase of the software development life cycle (SDLC). This study aims to empirically investigate and prioritize the risks that could negatively impact the software security aspects of SDLC in the context of global software development (GSD). To achieve the study objectives, we conducted an industrial empirical study to determine the impact of software security threats against each phase of SDLC. Furthermore, the fuzzy analytical hierarchy process (FAHP) was used to prioritize the list of software security risks against the SDLC. The results and analysis of this study provide a ranked‐based decision‐making framework, which assists the practitioners in considering the most critical security risks on priority. The results show “improper plan for secure requirement identification, inception, authentication, authorization, and privacy,” “lack of threat models updating,” “lack of output validation,” “lack of certification in the final release and archive,” and “spoofing” as the top‐ranked security risks of SDLC in GSD. In addition, the application of FAHP is novel in this domain as it is helpful to address multicriteria decision‐making problems.
Supramolecularly Engineered Bulk‐Heterojunction Solar Cells with Self‐Assembled Non‐Fullerene Nanographene Tetraimide Acceptors
Authors: Menekse Kaan , Mahl Magnus , Albert Julius , Niyas M. A. , Shoyama Kazutaka , Stolte Matthias , Würthner Frank
Published: November 2022

A series of novel imide‐functionalized C64 nanographenes is investigated as acceptor components in organic solar cells (OSCs) in combination with donor polymer PM6. These electron‐poor molecules either prevail as a monomer or self‐assemble into dimers in the OSC active layer depending on the chosen imide substituents. This allows for the controlled stacking of electron‐poor and electron‐rich π–scaffolds to establish a novel class of non‐fullerene acceptor materials to tailor the bulk‐heterojunction morphology of the OSCs. The best performance is observed for derivatives that are able to self‐assemble into dimers, reaching power conversion efficiencies of up to 7.1%.
Transparent Liquid Crystal Hole‐Transporting Material for Stable Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Ul Ain Qurat , Xia Jianxing , Kanda Hiroyuki , Alwani Imanah Rafieh , Gao Xiao-Xin , Rehman Habib Ur , Shao Guang , Jankauskas Vygintas , Rakstys Kasparas , Ahmed Khan Ammar , Nazeeruddin Mohammad Khaja
Published: November 2022

Hexakis(hexyloxy)triphenylene (HAT6) discotic liquid crystal is employed as a transparent hole‐transporting material (HTM) for perovskite solar cells (PSCs) and a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 15.7% is obtained, which is the highest using HAT6 type of HTMs. Despite lower PCE than spiro‐OMeTAD‐based devices (20.3%), the PSCs based on HAT6 exhibit much higher ambient and thermal stability. A fused polyaromatic core with six alkyl chains leads to high hydrophobicity, and the π‐stacked molecular columns of the HAT6 shield the bis(trifluoromethane)sulfonamide lithium salt dopant migration into the perovskite absorber. The PSCs (under N2 condition) exhibit superior stability compared to the devices employing spiro‐OMeTAD, retaining nearly 92% of their initial efficiency after 1200 h operation. Under ambient conditions, HAT6‐based hole‐transportation layer devices retain 93% of the initial efficiency for 690 h. Under continuous thermal stress of 85 °C, the devices based on HAT6 retain 95% of the initial PCE. The results demonstrate the time applicability of liquid crystal for stable PSCs fabrication.
Partial intravenous anaesthesia and opioid‐sparing analgesia in a dog undergoing surgical management of insulinoma
Authors: Gavet Morgane , Conde Ruiz Clara
Published: November 2022

A 4.5‐year‐old dog was anaesthetised to undergo a partial pancreatectomy for insulinoma removal, an insulin‐secreting pancreatic tumour causing hypoglycaemia. The patient was premedicated with dexmedetomidine (2 μg/kg) and maropitant (1 mg/kg) intravenously. Anaesthesia was induced with alfaxalone (0.5 mg/kg) and diazepam (0.2 mg/kg) intravenously and maintained with a dexmedetomidine constant‐rate infusion of 1 μg/kg/h and isoflurane in 70% oxygen. A bilateral transversus abdominis plane block was performed with ropivacaine (0.3% 1 ml/kg) divided into four points. Additional intraoperative analgesia included ketamine, fentanyl and methadone intravenously. Lactated Ringer's solution was administered, and glucose supplementation was adjusted based on glycaemia. Postoperatively, the patient was comfortable and required no analgesia for the 48‐hour hospitalisation period, but presented mild hyperglycaemia. This case reports the successful management of an insulinoma with a dexmedetomidine constant‐rate infusion and opioid‐sparing multimodal analgesia.
Carbosilane dendritic nanostructures, highly versatile platforms for pharmaceutical applications
Authors: de la Mata Francisco Javier , Gómez Rafael , Cano Jesús , Sánchez‐Nieves Javier , Ortega Paula , Gallego Sandra García
Published: November 2022

Dendrimers are multifunctional molecules with well‐defined size and structure due to the step‐by‐step synthetic procedures required in their preparation. Dendritic constructs based on carbosilane scaffolds present carbon–carbon and carbon–silicon bonds, which results in stable, lipophilic, inert, and flexible structures. These properties are highly appreciated in different areas, including the pharmaceutical field, as they can increase the interaction with cell membranes and improve the therapeutic action. This article summarizes the most recent advances in the pharmaceutical applications of carbosilane dendritic molecules, from therapeutics to diagnostics and prevention tools. Dendrimers decorated with cationic, anionic, or other moieties, including metallodendrimers; supramolecular assemblies; dendronized nanoparticles and surfaces; as well as dendritic networks like hydrogels are described. The collected examples confirm the potential of carbosilane dendrimers and dendritic materials as antiviral or antibacterial agents; in therapy against cancer, neurodegenerative disease, or oxidative stress; or many other biomedical applications.

This article is categorized under:

Nanotechnology Approaches to Biology > Nanoscale Systems in Biology

Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Nanomedicine for Infectious Disease

Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Nanomedicine for Oncologic Disease
Portfoliobasiertes Lernen in der Chirurgie
Authors: Herbstreit S. , Hille L. , Rademacher F. , Burggraf M. , Mester B. , Dudda M.
Published: November 2022

Hintergrund

Durch eine zunehmende Kompetenzorientierung des Medizinstudiums und der Weiterbildung werden chirurgische Currikula vielerorts angepasst. Diese sollten, neben chirurgischem Wissen und praktischen Fertigkeiten, auch Kompetenzen zu Differenzialdiagnostik und -therapie vermitteln. Die Vermittlung chirurgischen Wissens durch Vorlesungen und Seminare und der Nachweis praktischer Fertigkeiten, z. B. mithilfe des Einsatzes von Logbüchern im Blockpraktikum (BP) Chirurgie, führt nur eingeschränkt zu einer aktiven Auseinandersetzung mit den chirurgischen Kompetenzen zu Differenzialdiagnostik und -therapie. Ein reflexionsbasiertes Portfolio kann, durch die eigenständige schriftliche Bearbeitung chirurgischer Themen eine aktive Auseinandersetzung mit den Kompetenzen ermöglichen und verspricht einen höheren Lerneffekt. Bei der Implementierung eines solchen Portfolios im Rahmen des Tätigkeitsnachweises im BP wurden die Effekte auf den Kompetenzerwerb und auf die Art und Weise des Lernens untersucht.

Material und Methoden

Mit einer Kombination aus einer quantitativen und einer qualitativen Methode („mixed methods“) haben wir den Einsatz eines Logbuchs im BP Chirurgie mit dem Einsatz eines reflexionsbasierten Portfolios verglichen. Mittels Fragebogenerhebungen vor und nach dem BP erfolgte durch die Studierenden eine Selbsteinschätzung von Kompetenzen. Im Rahmen von Fokusgruppeninterviews anhand eines Leitfadens, mit Diskussionen unter Studierenden, haben wir die unterschiedlichen Wege des Kompetenzerwerbs untersucht. Zusätzlich wurden die Prüfungs- und Evaluationsergebnisse beider Kohorten verglichen.

Ergebnisse und Diskussion

Der in der Selbsteinschätzung erhobene Kompetenzerwerb der Studierenden und die Prüfungs- und Evaluationsergebnisse zeigten im Vergleich beider Kohorten keinen Unterschied. Im Rahmen der Fokusgruppeninterviews konnten wir zeigen, dass in der Wahrnehmung der Studierenden chirurgische Kompetenzen mithilfe eines reflexionsbasierten Portfolio sichtbarer und damit eindeutiger gemacht werden können. Zusätzlich wurde selbstreguliertes Lernen der Studierenden gefördert, ohne dass praktische Fertigkeiten vernachlässigt wurden. Eine stärkere Supervision und Anleitung durch Mentor:innen wurde in beiden Gruppen gefordert.
Remarkable population structure in the tropical Atlantic lace corals Stylaster roseus (Pallas, 1766) and Stylaster blatteus (Boschma, 1961)
Authors: Gnecco Mariana , Nunes Flávia L. D. , González-Zapata Fanny L. , Dueñas Luisa F. , Zilberberg Carla , Lindner Alberto , Sánchez Juan A.
Published: November 2022

Biodiversity on coral reefs depends not only on primary reef-builders, but also on associated taxa that create microhabitats for other species. Hydrocorals of the genusStylaster, commonly known as lace corals, form small branching colonies that enhance three-dimensional complexity on reefs and are known to support a variety of commensal species. Furthermore, the genus is highly speciose, further increasing biodiversity. Despite their important ecological roles, little is known about the evolutionary history and the intraspecific diversity and structure in these broadly distributed hydrocorals. Here, we assessed the phylogenetic relationships among Atlantic species in the genusStylasterand examined the genetic structure ofS. roseusin the Tropical Western Atlantic (Caribbean and Brazil) and ofS. blatteusin the Tropical Eastern Atlantic (Africa), using DNA sequences from the 16S ribosomal gene. Time-calibrated phylogenetic analyses showed thatS. roseusandS. blatteusdiverged at ~ 24.6 Ma. A well-supported Brazilian clade withinS. roseusindicates a possible cryptic species that diverged at ~ 11.6 Ma, consistent with the formation of the Amazon River at 9 Ma (Hoorn et al. in Glob Planet Change 153:51–65, 2017). Strong genetic structure was observed even over moderate distances, with ΦSTvalues over all populations being 0.98 forS. roseusand 0.90 forS. blatteus. Nearly, all haplotypes were private (found in a single location) and diverged by many mutational steps from one another. In contrast, genetic diversity was low at the local scale for both species, with most sites showing no variation (a single haplotype). These results are coherent with the reproductive strategy of Stylasteridae, where larvae are brooded and are highly developed at the time of release, often settling near the parental colony. Limited dispersal coupled with possible clonal reproduction have likely contributed to the high levels of genetic differentiation observed here. Lace corals show unusual reproductive and population dynamics compared to other reef inhabiting cnidarians. Future work may reveal additional cryptic diversity in this poorly studied family.
A MWCNTs-COOH/PSS nanocomposite–modified screen-printed electrode for the determination of synthetic phenolic antioxidants by HPLC with amperometric detection
Authors: Abad-Gil Lucía , García-Ríos Mayte , Isabel-Cabrera Carmen , Gismera M. Jesús , Sevilla M. Teresa , Procopio Jesús R.
Published: November 2022

New sensing platforms based on screen-printed carbon electrodes modified with composites based on polystyrene sulfonate and oxidized multi-walled carbon nanotubes (PSS/MWCNTs-COOH/SPCE) have been used to develop a novel HPLC method with electrochemical detection (ECD) for the determination of the most used synthetic phenolic antioxidants in cosmetics: butylhydroxytoluene (BHT), butylhydroxyanisole (BHA), tert-butylhydroquinone (TBHQ) and propyl gallate (PG). Optimal separation conditions were achieved using methanol: 0.10 mol L−1 acetate solution at pH 6 as mobile phase with a gradient elution program from 60 to 90% of methanol percentage in 15 min. The electrochemical detection was carried out in amperometric mode using the PSS/MWCNTs-COOH/SPCE at + 0.80 V vs. Ag. Under these optimal separation and detection conditions, the limits of detection (LOD) were between 0.11 and 0.25 mg L−1. These LOD values were better, especially for BHT, than those previously published in other HPLC methods. Linear ranges from 0.37 mg L−1, 0.83 mg L−1, 0.69 mg L−1 and 0.56 mg L−1 to 10 mg L−1 were obtained for PG, TBHQ, BHA and BHT, respectively. RSD values equal or lower than 5% and 8% were achieved for repeatability and reproducibility, respectively. The HPLC-ECD method was successfully applied to analyze different cosmetic samples. Recovery values within 83–109% were obtained in the validation studies.

Graphical Abstract
Pathogenesis and current therapies for non-infectious uveitis
Authors: Wu Xue , Tao Mengying , Zhu Ling , Zhang Ting , Zhang Ming
Published: November 2022

Non-infectious uveitis (NIU) is a disorder with various etiologies and is characterized by eye inflammation, mainly affecting people of working age. An accurate diagnosis of NIU is crucial for appropriate therapy. The aim of therapy is to improve vision, relieve ocular inflammation, prevent relapse, and avoid treatment side effects. At present, corticosteroids are the mainstay of topical or systemic therapy. However, repeated injections are required for the treatment of chronic NIU. Recently, new drug delivery systems that may ensure intraocular delivery of therapeutic drug levels have been highlighted. Furthermore, with the development of immunosuppressants and biologics, specific therapies can be selected based on the needs of each patient. Immunosuppressants used in the treatment of NIU include calcineurin inhibitors and antimetabolites. However, systemic immunosuppressive therapy itself is associated with adverse effects due to the inhibition of immune function. In patients with refractory NIU or those who cannot tolerate corticosteroids and immunosuppressors, biologics have emerged as alternative treatments. Thus, to improve the prognosis of patients with NIU, NIU should be managed with different drugs according to the response to treatment and possible side effects.
On the potential of undifferenced and uncombined GNSS time and frequency transfer with integer ambiguity resolution and satellite clocks estimated
Authors: Mi Xiaolong , Zhang Baocheng , El-Mowafy Ahmed , Wang Kan , Yuan Yunbin
Published: November 2022

The use of global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) has been a competitive way to provide high-precision and low-cost time and frequency transfer results. However, the traditional GNSS method, the precise point positioning (PPP), is usually based on the ionosphere-free (IF) combination, which is not flexible when applying multi-frequency scenarios. In addition, PPP relies on precise satellite clock products with an accuracy of tens of picoseconds, limiting the time and frequency transfer performance. More importantly, achieving integer ambiguity resolution (IAR) is challenging, which makes high-precision phase observations underutilized. To achieve a better time transfer performance, we must consider all those factors from the GNSS end. In this contribution, a new GNSS time and frequency model at the undifferenced and uncombined (UDUC) level is first derived. In the UDUC model, the satellite clocks are estimated together with other parameters, and the integer ambiguities are resolved in the double-differenced (DD) form for their reliable estimation. Our numerical tests suggest three major findings. First, with integer ambiguities resolved, the UDUC model with satellite clocks fixed showed a 20% to 50% improvement compared with the UDUC PPP model. Second, with IAR and satellite clocks estimated, the proposed UDUC model shows a 10%–40% improvement over the model with satellite clocks fixed. Third, with integer ambiguities resolved and satellite clocks estimated, GPS, Galileo, and BDS-3 all have the potential to achieve frequency transfer in the low-mid $$10^{ - 17}$$

10

-
17

range for averaging times within one day.
The method of forced probabilities: a computation trick for Bayesian model evidence
Authors: Banerjee Ishani , Walter Peter , Guthke Anneli , Mumford Kevin G. , Nowak Wolfgang
Published: November 2022

Bayesian model selection objectively ranks competing models by computing Bayesian Model Evidence (BME) against test data. BME is the likelihood of data to occur under each model, averaged over uncertain parameters. Computing BME can be problematic: exact analytical solutions require strong assumptions; mathematical approximations (information criteria) are often strongly biased; assumption-free numerical methods (like Monte Carlo) are computationally impossible if the data set is large, for example like high-resolution snapshots from experimental movies. To use BME as ranking criterion in such cases, we develop the “Method of Forced Probabilities (MFP)”. MFP swaps the direction of evaluation: instead of comparing thousands of model runs on random model realizations with the observed movie snapshots, we force models to reproduce the data in each time step and record the individual probabilities of the model following these exact transitions. MFP is fast and accurate for models that fulfil the Markov property in time, paired with high-quality data sets that resolve all individual events. We demonstrate our approach on stochastic macro-invasion percolation models that simulate gas migration in porous media, and list additional examples of probable applications. The corresponding experimental movie was obtained from slow gas injection into water-saturated, homogeneous sand in a 25 x 25 x 1 cm acrylic glass tank. Despite the movie not always satisfying the high demands (resolving all individual events), we can apply MFP by suggesting a few workarounds. Results confirm that the proposed method can compute BME in previously unfeasible scenarios, facilitating a ranking among competing model versions for future model improvement.
Projection Based Semi-Implicit Partitioned Reduced Basis Method for Fluid-Structure Interaction Problems
Authors: Nonino Monica , Ballarin Francesco , Rozza Gianluigi , Maday Yvon
Published: November 2022

In this manuscript a POD-Galerkin based Reduced Order Model for unsteady Fluid-Structure Interaction problems is presented. The model is based on a partitioned algorithm, with semi-implicit treatment of the coupling conditions. A Chorin–Temam projection scheme is applied to the incompressible Navier–Stokes problem, and a Robin coupling condition is used for the coupling between the fluid and the solid. The coupled problem is based on an Arbitrary Lagrangian Eulerian formulation, and the Proper Orthogonal Decomposition procedure is used for the generation of the reduced basis. We extend existing works on a segregated Reduced Order Model for Fluid-Structure Interaction to unsteady problems that couple an incompressible, Newtonian fluid with a linear elastic solid, in two spatial dimensions. We consider three test cases to assess the overall capabilities of the method: an unsteady, non-parametrized problem, a problem that presents a geometrical parametrization of the solid domain, and finally, a problem where a parametrization of the solid’s shear modulus is taken into account.
Bayesian learning via neural Schrödinger–Föllmer flows
Authors: Vargas Francisco , Ovsianas Andrius , Fernandes David , Girolami Mark , Lawrence Neil D. , Nüsken Nikolas
Published: November 2022

In this work we explore a new framework for approximate Bayesian inference in large datasets based on stochastic control. We advocate stochastic control as a finite time and low variance alternative to popular steady-state methods such as stochastic gradient Langevin dynamics. Furthermore, we discuss and adapt the existing theoretical guarantees of this framework and establish connections to already existing VI routines in SDE-based models.
Nephrotoxic effect of heavy metals and the role of DNA repair gene among secondary aluminum smelter workers
Authors: Moubarz Gehan , Mohammed Atef M. F. , Saleh Inas A. , Shahy Eman M. , Helmy Mona A.
Published: November 2022

This study aims to estimate the association between some heavy metals in suspended particulate matter (SPM) and kidney damage among workers at different departments in a secondary aluminum production plant. It also investigates the association between Xeroderma Pigmentosum complementation group D (XPD) gene polymorphisms and worker’s susceptibility to kidney dysfunction. It was conducted on 30 workers from the administrative departments and 147 workers from different departments in the production line. Estimation of some heavy metals (Al, Co, Ni, Cu, Pb, and Cd) in suspended particulate matter (SPM) is done. Also, urinary levels of those metals were measured for all workers. Kidney injury molecule 1 (KIM-1), clusterin levels, and XPD protein level were estimated. Genotyping of XPD gene polymorphisms was performed. The measured annual average concentrations of the estimated heavy metals were lower than the permissible limits. Gravity area had the maximum concentration of metals with a higher Al average daily dose and hazardous index > 1. Kidney injury biomarkers (clusterin and KIM-1) were increased significantly (p < 0.05) while XPD protein showed the lowest levels among workers at the gravity and cold rolling areas. XPD Asn/Asp genotype was more dominant among those workers (85.7%). Conclusion: aluminum workers are at risk of kidney disorders due to heavy metal exposure. The individual’s susceptibility to the diseases is related to the DNA repair efficiency mechanisms. The defect in XPD protein represents a good indicator of susceptibility to the disease. KIM-1 and clusterin estimation is a predictor biomarker for early-staged kidney diseases.
Selection of the most sensitive configuration of strip array detectors for x-ray beam monitoring in radiotherapy of cancer utilizing singular value decomposition
Authors: Högele Wolfgang , Zygmanski Piotr
Published: November 2022

We propose a concise mathematical framework in order to compare detector configurations efficiently for x-ray beam monitoring in radiotherapy of cancer. This framework consists of the singular value decomposition (SVD) of the system matrix and the definition of an effective information threshold based on the relative error inequality utilizing the condition number of a matrix. The goal of this paper is to present the mathematical argument as well as to demonstrate its use for modeling the best detector configuration for monitoring x-ray beams in external beam therapy. This analysis depends neither on specific measurements of a given set of x-ray beams, nor does it depend in specific reconstruction algorithms of the beam shape, and therefore represents a configuration meta-analysis. In the results section, we compare three possible detector designs, each leading to a highly underdetermined system, and are able to determine their effective information content relative to each other. Furthermore, by changing design parameters, such as the geometric detector configuration, number of detectors, detector pixel size, and the x-ray beam blur, deeper insight in this challenging inverse problem is achieved and the most sensitive monitoring scheme is determined.
What divides Salafis: how local realities overwrite grand typologies in Cambodia’s Salafi movement
Authors: Pall Zoltan
Published: November 2022

Quintan Wiktorowicz’s typology and other methods of classification developed by other scholars from his approach have been the most popular when studying Salafism. However, such typologies, especially when examining Salafism in non-Middle Eastern and minority contexts, have their shortcomings. The first main problem with current typologies is that they discuss distinct Salafi factions at a specific time and local context, but intend to be universal. However, these factions often tend not to be conceptually different, as in many cases, their participants only behave differently due to different circumstances in different localities. Second, these typologies were devised by scholars who chiefly study the Middle East and distinguish different Salafi groups based on their discourses on issues often relevant only in Middle Eastern contexts. This article tests the applicability of the existing classifications of Salafism by drawing on three ethnographic case studies from Cambodia. In Cambodia, Salafism emerged in a Muslim minority context. With the expansion of its networks, fragmentation occurred within the movement due to disagreements such as how to deal with the Muslim (non-Salafi) other and the non-Muslim majority. The article argues that classifications should be set up based on observing local group dynamics instead of being universal. This is because differences among Salafis, just as in other social movements, mainly arise due to the participants’ interaction with the local realities and issues.
Resilient und überstabil. Zur Krisenfestigkeit der Europäischen Union
Authors: Immerfall Stefan
Published: November 2022

Die Europäischen Gemeinschaften der Nachkriegsjahre haben sich trotz mannigfacher Krisen zu einem stabilen Gebilde entwickelt. Diese Entwicklung war durchaus erwartungswidrig. Der Artikel betont die zentrale Rolle politischer, juridischer und institutioneller Pfadabhängigkeiten im Europäischen Integrationsprozess. Die Kernthese lautet im Anschluss daran, dass die Europäische Union mittlerweile als geradezu überstabil bezeichnet werden muss, da einmal getroffene Weichenstellungen aus strukturellen Gründen kaum mehr korrigiert werden können. Die EU muss daher Alternativen zum Grundsatz der Einheitlichkeit entwickeln und Wege finden, ihren Kritikern innerhalb des Gemeinschaftssystems eine Stimme zu geben. Krisenresistenz, so das Fazit, könnte sich sonst paradoxerweise als Achillesferse der Integration erweisen.
„Diego ist tot, es lebe Diego!“ – Soziologische Beobachtungen zur ungebrochenen Popularität Maradonas in Argentinien
Authors: Kühnle Felix , Reinold Marcel
Published: November 2022

Im November 2020 starb Diego Armando Maradona. Das öffentliche Trauergeschehen und die Kommunikation in Reaktion auf seinen Tod verdeutlichen den außerordentlichen Symbolwert Maradonas in Argentinien auf besondere Weise. Betrachtet man jedoch die Vielzahl an Eskapaden, Regelverstößen, Gesetzesbrüchen und sonstigen Grenzüberschreitungen Maradonas, erscheinen seine fast ungebrochene Popularität und regelrecht sakrale Überhöhung zu Lebzeiten und über den Tod hinaus in einem anderen Licht. Neben seinen beiden Dopingfällen, Schlägereien auf dem Fußballplatz oder obszönen Gesten gegen sportliche Kontrahenten ist gerade auch die Liste seiner außersportlichen Verfehlungen lang. Erklärungsbedürftig ist dabei nicht nur, wie Maradona trotz aller Skandale Held bleiben konnte, sondern auch, in welchem Maße die Widersprüche, Ambivalenzen und Unzulänglichkeiten seinen Heldenstatus erst erzeugten. Aus diesem Grund werden im vorliegenden Beitrag die Leitsemantiken, Legitimationsrhetoriken, Neutralisierungstechniken, Rechtfertigungsgeschichten und sonstigen Präfigurationen identifiziert, die im allgemeinen Reden über Maradona wiederkehrend auftauchen. Es wird gezeigt, wie Gemeinschaftsfiktionen, Protestsymbole, Geniekonzept, Opfernarrative und Gottessemantik seinen Heldenstatus kommunikativ immunisieren, kontrafaktisch stabilisieren und zusätzlich befördern.
Super-Solidus Hot Isostatic Pressing Heat Treatments for Advanced Single Crystal Ni-Base Superalloys
Authors: Lopez-Galilea Inmaculada , Hecker Lisa , Epishin Alexander , Bürger David , Ruttert Benjamin , Thome Pascal , Weber Sebastian , Theisen Werner
Published: November 2022

Super-solidus hot isostatic pressing (SSHIP) heat treatment has first been developed and applied to the third-generation Ni-base single crystal superalloy CMSX-10 K. This new type of heat treatment aims at significantly reducing the total time required for the solution heat treatment and at enhancing mechanical properties as compared to conventional heat treatment routes. The SSHIP is an innovative, economical and sustainable approach that can be applied to all types of Ni-base SX superalloys. It is especially interesting for alloys with a high content of refractory elements and a large volume fraction of eutectic microstructure in the as-cast state.
Kinetic Study on Reduction of FeO in a Molten HIsarna Slag by Various Solid Carbon Sources
Authors: Htet Theint Theint , Yan Zhiming , Khasraw Darbaz , Hage Johannes , Meijer Koen , Li Zushu
Published: November 2022

To investigate the reduction behaviour of different reductants such as charcoal (CC), thermal coal (TC), and carbon black (CB) with HIsarna slag, a series of isothermal reduction experiments were performed in a vertical tube resistance furnace (VTF), coupled with a Quadrupole mass spectrometer (QMS) at 1450 °C, 1475 °C and 1500 °C. The results confirm that the highest overall reduction rate was achieved by CC, followed by TC and CB. The reduction mechanism between FeO containing molten slag and the selected carbonaceous materials is determined by studying the morphology of the water quenched samples at the intervals of 1.5, 3 and 5 minutes, using optical and scanning electron microscopes. The results reveal that the overall reaction is controlled by two main mechanisms: (1) nucleation and growth of CO bubbles, proceeded by the gaseous intermediates CO and CO2; and (2) diffusion of FeO in the molten slag. The initial reduction period in which chemical reaction control is dominant, can be described by the Avrami–Erofeev model, whereas the final period is described by the three-dimensional diffusion model.
Automatic diagnosis of late-life depression by 3D convolutional neural networks and cross-sample Entropy analysis from resting-state fMRI
Authors: Lin Chemin , Lee Shwu-Hua , Huang Chih-Mao , Chen Guan-Yen , Chang Wei , Liu Ho-Ling , Ng Shu-Hang , Lee Tatia Mei-Chun , Wu Shun-Chi
Published: November 2022

Resting-state fMRI has been widely used in investigating the pathophysiology of late-life depression (LLD). Unlike the conventional linear approach, cross-sample entropy (CSE) analysis shows the nonlinear property in fMRI signals between brain regions. Moreover, recent advances in deep learning, such as convolutional neural networks (CNNs), provide a timely application for understanding LLD. Accurate and prompt diagnosis is essential in LLD; hence, this study aimed to combine CNN and CSE analysis to discriminate LLD patients and non-depressed comparison older adults based on brain resting-state fMRI signals. Seventy-seven older adults, including 49 patients and 28 comparison older adults, were included for fMRI scans. Three-dimensional CSEs with volumes corresponding to 90 seed regions of interest of each participant were developed and fed into models for disease classification and depression severity prediction. We obtained a diagnostic accuracy > 85% in the superior frontal gyrus (left dorsolateral and right orbital parts), left insula, and right middle occipital gyrus. With a mean root-mean-square error (RMSE) of 2.41, three separate models were required to predict depressive symptoms in the severe, moderate, and mild depression groups. The CSE volumes in the left inferior parietal lobule, left parahippocampal gyrus, and left postcentral gyrus performed best in each respective model. Combined complexity analysis and deep learning algorithms can classify patients with LLD from comparison older adults and predict symptom severity based on fMRI data. Such application can be utilized in precision medicine for disease detection and symptom monitoring in LLD.
Current professional standing of young medical oncologists in Spain: a nationwide survey by the Spanish Society of Medical Oncology + MIR section
Authors: Martinez Domingo Antonio Sanchez , Quilez-Cutillas Aliica , Jimenez-Labaig Pablo , Sesma Andrea , Tarazona Noelia , Pacheco-Barcia Vilma , Obispo Berta , Paez David , Quintanar Teresa , Sanchez-Canovas Manuel , Montes Ana Fernandez , Felip Enriqueta , Rodriguez-Lescure Alvaro , Elez Elena
Published: November 2022

Background

There is a lack of knowledge about the career paths and employment situation of young medical oncologists. The aim of our study was to evaluate the current professional standing of these professionals in Spain.

Methods

The Spanish Society of Medical Oncology + MIR section conducted a national online survey in May 2021 of young medical oncology consultants (< 6 years of expertise) and final year medical oncology residents.

Results

A total of 162 responses were eligible for analysis and included participants from 16 autonomous communities; 64% were women, 80% were consultants, and 20% were residents. More than half of the participants performed routine healthcare activity and only 7% research activity. Almost three quarters (73%) were subspecialized in a main area of interest and almost half of these chose this area because it was the only option available after residency. Half of the respondents (51%) considered working abroad and 81% believed the professional standing in Spain was worse than in other countries. After finishing their residency, only 22 were offered a job at their training hospital. Just 16% of participants had a permanent employment contract and 87% were concerned (score of ≥ 5 on a scale of 1–10) about their job stability. In addition, one quarter of the participants in our study showed an interest in increasing their research activity.

Conclusions

The choice of subspecialty in medical oncology may depend on job opportunities after residency rather than personal interest. The abundance of temporary contracts may have influenced the job stability concerns observed. Future mentoring strategies should engage in building a long-term career path for young medical oncologists.
CleverRiver: an open source and free Google Colab toolkit for deep-learning river-flow models
Authors: Luppichini Marco , Bini Monica , Giannecchini Roberto
Published: November 2022

In a period in which climate change is significantly varying rainfall regimes and their intensity all over the world, river-flow prediction is a major concern of geosciences. In recent years there has been an increase in the use of deep-learning models for river-flow prediction. However, in this field we can observe two main issues: i) many case studies use similar (or the same) strategies without sharing the codes, and ii) the application of these techniques requires good computer knowledge. This work proposes to employ a Google Colab notebook called CleverRiver, which allows the application of deep-learning for river-flow predictions. CleverRiver is a dynamic software that can be upgraded and modified not only by the authors but also by the users. The main advantages of CleverRiver are the following: the software is not limited by the client hardware, operating systems, etc.; the code is open-source; the toolkit is integrated with user-friendly interfaces; updated releases with new architectures, data management, and model parameters will be progressively uploaded. The software consists of three sections: the first one enables to train the models by means of some architectures, parameters, and data; the second section allows to create predictions by using the trained models; the third section allows to send feedback and to share experiences with the authors, providing a flux of precious information able to improve scientific research.