bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antibiotics Susceptibility Profile of Biofilm-Forming Bacteria Isolated from Soybean Milk Drinks Sold in Abakaliki Metropolis, Nigeria
Authors: Uduku Nwadaonwe Demian , Chinwe Igwe Franklyn , Happiness Onuoha , Immaculate Mkpuma Nnennaya , Favor Nzekwe Onyeka , Peter Ikemesit Udeme , Aniokete Ugonna Cassandra , Iroha Ifeanyichukwu Romanus
Published: November 2023

This study was carried out to determine the antibiotic susceptibility profile of biofilm-forming bacteria isolated from locally produced soybean milk drinks sold within the Abakaliki metropolis.  A total of 150 soybean milk samples comprising 15 samples from each location were collected using random sampling techniques from 10 different locations namely Nkaliki, Presco Junction, Azugwu, Kpirikpiri, Ahiaofu, Mile 50, Rice mill, Mechanic site, international market and Abofia area of Abakaliki town in Ebonyi State metropolis. The collected soybean milk samples were analyzed for the presence of bacteria using standard microbiology techniques which include; culturing, Gram staining and biochemical tests. The screening for biofilm formation on isolated bacteria species was done using the tube method. The antibiotic susceptibility profile of the isolated biofilm-forming bacteria was determined using the disc diffusion method. The result showed that a total of 100 (66.6%) bacteria were isolated from the locally produced soybean milk comprising of 5 bacteria genera namely: Staphylococcus aureus 25 (25%), Escherichia coli, 27 (27%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa 10 (10%),  Klebsiella species 15 (15%) and Salmonella species 23 (23%). The biofilm production screening test revealed that Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa are biofilm-forming bacteria (are all the isolated bacteria of S. aureus, K. pneumoniae and P. aeruginosa all biofilm producers. The antibiotic susceptibility profile of biofilm-forming bacteria varies between antibiotics. The result showed that all Staphylococcus aureus isolates were (100%) susceptible to ceftazidime, 80% resistant to imipenem and 72% resistant to ciprofloxacin,  Pseudomonas aeruginosa, isolates were 100% and 80% resistant to cefoxitin and ofloxacin while  E. coli isolates were 70.3% and 63% resistant to ofloxacin and cefotaxime respectively. The study showed the poor hygienic quality of locally produced soybean milk marketed within the Abakaliki metropolis and this call for public awareness as it could be the source of disease outbreak/spread within this community.
Federal Inland Revenue Services, Tax Systems and National Economic Development in Nigeria
Authors: Adedeji Bose Deborah , Fasua Henry Kehinde , Sunday Oluwafemi Michael
Published: November 2023

The study examined the contributions of FIRS as one of the regulatory bodies to national economic development in Nigeria. The issue of harsh policies which becomes a noticeable threat to manufacturers (main tax payers) for relocating to neighbouring countries coupled with unfriendly tax policies approved by federal government and its attendants’ effects on the economy becomes the focus of the study It employs regression analysis to evaluate the relationship between FIRS’ tax policies to national development for the period of 12yrs (2011 - 2021). Real Gross Domestic Product (RGDP) was used as substitute for national development while Petroleum Profit Tax (PPT), Company Income Tax (CIT) and Custom and Excise Duties (CED) were employed as proxy for contributions of FIRS to tax policies. The findings of this study revealed that all explanatory variables have significant relationships with dependent variable respectively; PPT- 0.0383, CIT - 0.000 and CED - 0.000. The study concluded that there is significant relationship between FIRS’ tax policies to national development in Nigeria. Therefore, recommended that, since policies are meant for the well-being of citizens and progress of the economy, views and objects of tax payers must be well- integrated in the formulation of those policies and the need for constant feedback and review to suit the economy. Also, there is need for a more pragmatic FIRS institution approach to the control and management of evasion, tax avoidance and other illicit practices in the tax system, in order to take advantages of positive effect of taxes on the National Economic Development.
Factors Associated with Women having Breast Lump in Ghana: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Ngmenbelle David , Ofori Michael Fosu , Ofori Michael Arthur , Antwi Terah
Published: November 2023

Background: Breast lumps or lumpiness are a prevalent issue among women seeking guidance, with 40% to 70% reporting lumps or lumpiness. Any woman, regardless of age, who discovers a breast lump by self-examination, screening, or medical intervention begins to worry about developing breast cancer. Late stage of reporting suspected lumps is on the rise and this was impacted by the pandemic. The study examined factors that are associated breast lump and the risk on women who ever had breast lump.

Method: An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted on women who attended Peace and Love Hospital in Kumasi, Ghana for breast care services from January to February 2022.  Closed-ended questionnaire was used to solicit information from 301 women within a period of six weeks. Chi-square and binary logistic regression model was used to determine the association and the risk respectively.

Results: Breast lump was dominant in women between 41 – 50 years and in those who do not have family history of breast cancer. The findings reveal that educational level [χ2 = 11.170; p = 0.011] and the practice of breast self-examination [χ2 = 7.998; p = 0.005] were significantly associated with breast lump. Married women were 0.764  less likely to have breast lump than those who are singles. Women between 31-40 years were 2 times more likely [AOR=2.061, CI=0.876-4.846] and those between 41-50 years 1 time more likely [AOR=1.131,CI=0.451-2.837] to have breast lump than women between 18 – 30 years. 

Conclusion: Breast lump is predominant in women between 31 – 50 years. Factors associated with a woman having breast lump are educational background and the practice of breast self-examination. Surgeon managing a breast lump in women over 30 years old are encouraged to be extremely suspicious and cautious in order to detect and treat malignant lumps early.
Physico-Chemical and Thermodynamic Adsorption Studies of A Few Soils from Delta and Oyo State, Nigeria
Authors: Olanrewaju John A.  , Tairu Tajudeen T  , Sokan-Adeaga Adewale A.  , Kehinde Samuel A.  , Tella Esther O.  , Jaiyeola Taiwo F.  , Bamidele Olu-Owolabi , Oladeji Francis O.  , Olabosoye Peter O.  , Amoo Olakunle M.
Published: November 2023

Comprehensive study of the physico-chemical properties and interactions of cations with soils is a crucial research need for the development of more sustainable agricultural systems. The analysis of physico-chemical and thermodynamic adsorption studies of various soils from Delta and Oyo State, Nigeria, is the main emphasis of this paper. Two surface soils from the Cocoa Research Institutes of Nigeria (CRIN) and the Isoko North Local Government of Delta State were compared for their physico-chemical properties and heavy metal speciation. The effects of adsorption duration, pH, initial sorbate concentration, and ionic strength were also studied in relation to the adsorption of Cd2+, Pb2+, Cu2+, and Zn2+ ions. On the equilibrium and thermodynamics of the adsorption process, more investigation was conducted. The physico-chemical studies revealed that soil from CRIN had a pH of 6.1 in water and 5.4 in KCl, whereas soil from Isoko North had a pH of 4.3 in water and 3.0 in KCl. The largest percentages of organic matter are found in the soil from Isoko North (3.07%) and CRIN (3.82%). For both soils, the order of exchangeable bases was Ca > K > Mg > Na. The heavy metal concentrations in both soils were in the following order: Zn > Cu > Ni > Pb > Cd = Al; CRIN: 3.82meq/100g for CEC; Isoko North: 2.85meq/100g for CEC. In contrast to CRIN soil, Isoko North soil showed a larger bulk density and a superior hydraulic conductivity. Extractable elements were present in both soils in the following order: Mn > Fe > Zn > Cu. The base saturation in the CRIN soil was higher than the base saturation in the Isoko North soil, which was lower at 60.73%. Zn, Pb, and Cd were the outcomes of the heavy metal speciation for both soils. The equilibrium adsorption data, which were closely related to the Langmuir isotherm model, showed that the maximum capacity of lead for soil from Isoko North was 5.8140 mmol/g and for soil from CRIN was 7.6335 mmol/g. Thermodynamic investigations showed that the adsorption process was spontaneous for simply Cu2+ (for soil from CRIN) and non-spontaneous for other metal ions from both soils. Metal ions from both soils displayed exothermic and endothermic adsorption, respectively, for Cd2+ and Cu2+ (for soil from CRIN).
Study on G x E Interaction of Sorghum Lines (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench) for Grain Yield and Its Contributing Traits in Germplasm of Indore, India
Authors: Jamnotia Charu , Saxena Usha , Arora Somya , Singh Kirti , Singh Jyoti , Baghel Megha
Published: November 2023

The study was conducted to determine the stability of sorghum germplasm for grain yield as well as the amount and nature of genotype by environment interactions for grain yield in order to find and recommend stable high yielding variants. The trial was arranged in a randomized block design (RBD) in three replications. Germplasm were evaluated in 2 environments in Indore in 2019-2020 and 2020-2021 in main cropping seasons. 60 sorghum germplasm was evaluated under Thirteen morphological traits viz., Days to 50% flowering, Days to maturity, plant height (cm), Number of leaves per plant at the time of flowering, Leaf length of 4th leaf (cm), Leaf width of 4th leaf (cm), Panicle length (cm), Panicle width (cm), No. of Primary branches per panicle, No. of grains per primary branch, Grain yield/Plant (g), Leaf Area of 4th leaf (cm²), 100 seed weight (g) were recorded for 3 randomly selected plants for each germplasm per replication. Linear regression model for stability suggested by Eberhart and Russell was employed. Genotype x Environment interactions were found significantly in similar trend for the traits namely, days to 50% flowering, number of leaves per plant, leaf length of fourth leaf, leaf width of fourth leaf, panicle length, panicle width, number of primary branches per panicle, number of grains per primary branch, leaf area of the fourth leaf, grain yield per plant and 100 seed weight. It shows consistent results over years. Genotype x Environment interaction also revealed that the genotype SEB12025 found consistent for primary branches per panicle, grain yield. The germplasm E- 246 found suitable for seed weight, panicle width, Width of fourth leaf. Apart from POP-18, POP 27-1, EC-6, ERN-32, Gird-30, Gird 33-1, VKG 34/47, VKG 34/37, ER-15, EC- 16, ER-1, SEB 12025, E-207, ER-21, Gird-36, EGN-1, E-207, ER-3, Gird-41, E- 284,E-246, ER-3,Gird-41,Gird-5,ERN-32,GGUB-20, ELG-25,Sor 86,NCC-1,E-246 and ELG-31 no genotypes found consistent for any of the character. The characters which were found stable for a particular genotype should further be improved to develop stable and high-yielding genotypes for sustainable production. More locations and years could be taken to obtain a database about genotype x environment interaction to draw a more valid conclusion.
Subsurface Bioreactors as a Possible Addition to Enhance WW Treatment Plant Operation: A Brief Review
Authors: Dölle Klaus
Published: November 2023

Prior to the establishment of the United Sates Environmental Protection Agency and the Clean Water Act signed into law in 1972, water treatment was done on a minimal level or was not present at all. Since then, scientists strive to improve and advance new and existing water treatment processes that water can be discharged safely into water bodies.

Constructed wetlands as engineered waste water treatment systems are used today as a final waste water treatment before the treated waste water is released into a water body.

Surface flow and sub terranean flow constructed wetland options exist and are used for the treatment of municipal, agricultural and industrial waste water containing pollutants such as human waste, soap, fats, chemicals, and pharmaceutical compounds.

They can be operated all year round (24/7) at temperatures that might exceed 35°C (95°F) and as low as around -26°C (-15°F).

Constructed wetland systems in general depend on the quality of pretreatment for the inflow waste water, the hydrology and the carrier material as well as the climate, the vegetation and the physical and technical properties of the plant-based sewage treatment plants themselves, as well as the operational principle applied to the constructed wetland system.

Constructed wetland operated as surface and or sub terranean flow mode can be a cost-effective and low-energy consuming alternative that requires only minimal operational effort. Experience shows that sub-terranean flow surface constructed wetland can be a long-term cost-effective solution that operates stable in various hot and cold weather conditions for decades with minimal operational and maintenance effort.
The Effect of Investment and Inflation on the Open Unemployment Rate with GRDP as the Mediating Factor
Authors: Radhyanti Astri Shafa , Najmudin Najmudin , Widiastuti Ekaningtyas
Published: November 2023

Aims: The study examined the effect of investment and inflation on the unemployment rate with gross regional domestic product (GRDP) as a mediating factor, in Central Java from 2019 to 2022.

Study Design: This study was employed the mediating regression analysis to solve the different findings on the effect of investment to unemployment rate. GRDP has a potential role as mediating factor on the causal effect.

Place and Duration of Study: The population of this research is 35 districts or cities in Central Java Province for 2019–2022 period.

Methodology: This study is secondary data taken from the Central Bureau of Statistics. The method used to collect data is purposive sampling with data analysis using the Structural Equation Modeling approach. Tests worked are R Square Test, Q Square Test, Direct Hypothesis Test, and Indirect Hypothesis Test.

Results: The results show that: (1) Investment has no significant effect on Unemployment Rate, (2) GRDP has a negative effect on the Unemployment Rate, (3) Investment has a positive effect on GRDP, (4) GRDP can mediate the effect of Investment on the Unemployment Rate, and (5) Inflation has a negative effect on Unemployment Rate.
Approaching Theoretical Limits in the Performance of Printed P‐Type CuI Transistors via Room Temperature Vacancy Engineering
Authors: Kwon Yonghyun Albert , Kim Jin Hyeon , Barma Sunil V. , Lee Keun Hyung , Jo Sae Byeok , Cho Jeong Ho
Published: November 2023

Development of a novel high performing inorganic p‐type thin film transistor could pave the way for new transparent electronic devices. This complements the widely commercialized n‐type counterparts, indium‐gallium‐zinc‐oxide (IGZO). Of the few potential candidates, copper monoiodide (CuI) stands out. It boasts visible light transparency and high intrinsic hole mobility (>40 cm2 V−1 s−1), and is suitable for various low‐temperature processes. However, the performance of reported CuI transistors is still below expected mobility, mainly due to the uncontrolled excess charge‐ and defect‐scattering from thermodynamically favored formation of copper and iodine vacancies. Here, a solution‐processed CuI transistor with a significantly improved mobility is reported. This enhancement is achieved through a room‐temperature vacancy‐engineering processing strategy on high‐k dielectrics, sodium‐embedded alumina. A thorough set of chemical, structural, optical, and electrical analyses elucidates the processing‐dependent vacancy‐modulation and its corresponding transport mechanism in CuI. This encompasses defect‐ and phonon‐scattering, as well as the delocalization of charges in crystalline domains. As a result, the optimized CuI thin film transistors exhibit exceptionally high hole mobility of 21.6 ± 4.5 cm2 V−1 s−1. Further, the successful operation of IGZO‐CuI complementary logic gates confirms the applicability of the device.
Redox mal anders: katalytische Vielseitigkeit bei NAD(P)H‐abhängigen Oxidoreduktasen
Authors: Roth Sebastian , Niese Richard , Müller Michael , Hall Mélanie
Published: November 2023

Die asymmetrische Reduktion von Doppelbindungen unter Verwendung von NAD(P)H‐abhängigen Oxidoreduktasen hat sich als effizientes Werkzeug für die Synthese wichtiger chiraler Moleküle in der Forschung und im industriellen Maßstab bewährt. Diese Enzyme sind in Screening‐Kits zur Reduktion von C=O‐ (Ketone), C=C‐ (aktivierte Alkene) oder C=N‐Bindungen (Imine) kommerziell erhältlich. Aktuelle Berichte zeigen, dass die Fähigkeit, mehrere Reduktaseaktivitäten mit verschiedenartigen C=X‐Bindungen zu beherbergen, in verschiedenen Enzymklassen auftritt – entweder nativ oder nach Mutagenese. Dies stellt die gängige Vorstellung von Oxidoreduktasen infrage, hochselektiv für eine bestimmte Art des Elektrophils zu sein. Eine Berücksichtigung dieses wenig erforschten Potentials in Screenings von Enzymen und Protein‐Engineering‐Projekten könnte dazu beitragen, ergänzende biokatalytische Prozesse für die Synthese chiraler Verbindungen zu identifizieren. Dieser Übersichtsartikel soll zum allgemeinen Verständnis des promiskuitiven Verhaltens von NAD(P)H‐abhängigen Oxidoreduktasen bei der Reduktion von C=X‐Bindungen beitragen und zukünftige Entdeckungen unkonventioneller biokatalytischer Routen in der asymmetrischen Synthese inspirieren.
Diradicaloid Boron‐Doped Molecular Carbons Achieved by Pentagon‐Fusion
Authors: Yuan Liuzhong , Yang Jingyuan , Qi Shuo , Liu Yujia , Tian Xinyu , Jia Tao , Wang Yue , Dou Chuandong
Published: November 2023

Molecular carbons (MCs) are molecular cutouts of carbon materials. Doping with heteroatoms and constructing open‐shell structures are two powerful approaches to achieve unexpected and unique properties of MCs. Herein, we disclose a new strategy to design open‐shell boron‐doped MCs (BMCs), namely by pentagon‐fusion of an organoborane π‐system. We synthesized two diradicaloid BMC molecules that feature C24B and C38B π‐skeletons containing a pentagonal ring. A thorough investigation reveals that such pentagon‐fusion not only leads to their local antiaromaticity, but also incorporates an internal quinoidal substructure and thereby induces open‐shell singlet diradical states. Moreover, their fully fused structures enable efficient π conjugation, which is expanded over the whole frameworks. Consequently, some intriguing physical properties are achieved, such as narrow energy gaps, very broad light absorptions, and superior photothermal capability, along with excellent photostability. Notably, the solid of the C38B molecule exhibits absorption that covers the range of 300–1200 nm and an efficiency of 93.5 % for solar‐driven water evaporation, thus demonstrating the potential of diradicaloid BMCs as high‐performance organic photothermal materials.
Building flexible data structure for disaster response
Authors: Wright Margaret S.
Published: November 2023

Context

Recent years have had repeated public health emergencies where communities are to take the lead in response. Yet official data systems rarely can support community decision‐making with real or near‐real time, localised data. This disconnect discourages evidence‐based decision‐making based on community need, leading instead to highly contested, and often erratic decisions.

Objective

Develop a plan for public health and communities together to develop, understand and use real (or near real) time data during a public health emergency, including roles and activities for public health, community decision‐makers and community members. Focus is primarily on communities without access to ‘in‐house’ dedicated data providers.

Design

Using ‘crisis standards of care’ and the National Planning Frameworks, a set of actions are proposed to build the data infrastructure for public health disaster response, focused on local data needs.

Results

The proposed actions are organised within the ‘crisis standards of care’ five key elements framework. These actions are then connected to the Public Health Accreditations Board (PHAB) domains and the public health professionals core competencies demonstrating where these proposed actions fit in the services and skills of public health organizations and professionals. Many of the proposed actions would be applicable to larger more resourced communities and public health disaster responses.

Conclusions

Forward planning, practicing and discussions based in the ‘‘crisis standards of care’’ model and ‘The National Planning Frameworks’ could help communities build the relationships needed to access data for decision‐making in the moment. Further, using the ‘‘crisis standards of care’’ model would allow for development of a process and framework for rapidly shifting needs and resource access as is seen in emergencies. Model would also increase transparency and community focus, assisting decision‐makers in advocating and implementing the response in timely and equitable manner which would increase positive outcomes and positively engage the community.
Collagen Mimicry with a Short Collagen Model Peptide
Authors: Mukherjee Smriti , Sundarapandian Ashokraj , Ayyadurai Niraikulam , Shanmugam Ganesh
Published: November 2023

Mimicking triple helix and fibrillar network of collagen through collagen model peptide(CMP) with short GPO tripeptide repeats is a great challenge. Herein, a minimalistic CMP comprising only five GPO repeats [(GPO)5] is presented. This novel approach involves the fusion of ultrashort peptide with the synergetic power of π‐system and β‐sheet formation to short CMP (GPO)5. Accordingly, a hydrogel‐forming, fluorenylmethoxycarbonyl (Fmoc)‐functionalized ultrashort peptide (NFGAIL) is fused at the N‐terminus and phenylalanine at the C‐terminus of (GPO)5 (Fmoc‐NFGAIL‐(GPO)5‐F‐COOH, FmP‐5GPO). At room temperature, it forms a robust triple helix in aqueous buffer solution and has a relatively high melting point of 35 °C. The fluorenyl motif stabilizes the triple helix by aromatic π–π interactions as in its absence, triple helix is not formed. NFGAIL, which forms a β‐sheet, also aids in triple helix stabilization via intermolecular hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interactions. FmP‐5GPO forms highly entangled nanofibrils with a micrometer length, which have excellent cell viability. The achievement of stable triple helix and fibrils in such a short CMP(FmP‐5GPO) sequence is a challenging feat, and its significance in CMP‐based biomaterials is undeniable. The present strategy highlights the potential for developing new CMP sequences through intelligent tuning of fusion peptides and GPO repeats.
A novel Bruton's tyrosine kinase inhibitor JDB175 shows potent efficacy to suppress central nervous system lymphoma
Authors: Xia Yong , Li Xue , Jiang Ning , Wei Xiawei
Published: November 2023

Patients with central nervous system (CNS) lymphoma face limited treatment options and poor treatment outcomes, emphasizing the urgent need for effective therapeutic strategies. One limiting factor contributing to the suboptimal efficacy is the inadequate penetration of most treatment drugs across the blood–brain barrier (BBB). Recent insights into the pathophysiology of CNS lymphoma have identified the Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) signaling pathway as a potential target. Some clinical trials have shown impressive responses to BTK inhibitors in CNS lymphoma. However, currently approved BTK inhibitors have low BBB penetration rates, limiting their efficacy. In this study, we discovered that JDB175, a novel and highly selective BTK inhibitor, exhibits excellent BBB penetration capabilities and demonstrates favorable activity in a mouse model of CNS lymphoma while showing no significant signs of toxicity. JDB175 effectively inhibits the BTK signaling pathway in human lymphoma cells, suppressing their proliferation, inducing cell cycle arrest, and promoting apoptosis. The significance of this study lies in addressing the critical unmet medical need for effective treatments for CNS lymphoma. This finding indicates a promising avenue for improved treatments in CNS lymphoma, potentially opening doors for further clinical investigation and therapeutic advancements.
A Deep Learning Model for Wafer Defect Map Classification: Perspective on Classification Performance and Computational Volume
Authors: Kim Minjoo , Tak Jinhyung , Shin Jitae
Published: November 2023

Wafer defect map images are generated by performing electrical tests on each chip on wafer. These images demonstrate specific failure patterns occurred from semiconductor manufacturing process. It is crucial for engineers to classify what kind of defect patterns on this wafer is early. In an attempt to automate the classification of wafer defect maps, which are currently manual dependent, various machine learning and deep learning models have been introduced. However, it has not been successfully applied to real‐world mass production environments due to problems such as classification performance and computational volume. Therefore, the deep learning model integrating the Inception module and the skip connection module for wafer defect map classification is proposed here. This model has a fast training and inference speed with a small number of parameters, it is highly practical when processing large amounts of real‐time test data in a semiconductor manufacturing environment because of its small computational volume and high classification performance. This method is applied on the real‐field wafer test data, and the result shows that the proposed model takes a significant improvement on inference time by over 59% with high performance compared to the baseline model.
Inelastic analysis of octagonal concrete‐filled steel tubular short columns under eccentric loading
Authors: Ahmed Mizan , Liang Qing Quan , Patel Vipulkumar Ishvarbhai , Hamoda Ahmed
Published: November 2023

Octagonal concrete‐filled steel tubular (OCFST) columns combine the benefits of circular and square concrete‐filled steel tubular (CFST) columns so that they not only possess higher strength and ductility but also provide the ease of connection to composite beams. However, research studies have been very limited on the performance analysis of OCFST short beam‐columns subjected to eccentric loading. In this study, a fiber‐based numerical model is developed for the performance simulation of high‐strength OCFST short beam‐columns under eccentric loading. The simulation model takes into account material nonlinearities and concrete confinement induced by the octagonal steel tube. Computational methods are given that predict the axial load–moment interaction curves and moment–curvature responses of OCFST beam‐columns. The developed fiber model is verified against available test data with good accuracy. The influences of important parameters on the responses of high‐strength OCFST short beam‐columns are studied by means of utilizing the computational model. It is found that the behavior of OCFST beam‐columns is significantly influenced by the diameter‐to‐thickness ratio of the cross‐section, concrete strength, steel yield stress, and axial load ratio. Interaction equations are proposed for expressing the axial load–moment strength envelopes of the cross‐sections of OCFST beam‐columns and validated against numerical results.
Magnetized Baryonic layer and a novel BPS bound in the gauged-non-linear-sigma-model-Maxwell theory in (3+1)-dimensions through Hamilton-Jacobi equation
Authors: Canfora Fabrizio
Published: November 2023

Abstract

It is show that one can derive a novel BPS bound for the gauged Non-Linear-Sigma-Model (NLSM) Maxwell theory in (3+1) dimensions which can actually be saturated. Such novel bound is constructed using Hamilton-Jacobi equation from classical mechanics. The configurations saturating the bound represent Hadronic layers possessing both Baryonic charge and magnetic flux. However, unlike what happens in the more common situations, the topological charge which appears naturally in the BPS bound is a non-linear function of the Baryonic charge. This BPS bound can be saturated when the surface area of the layer is quantized. The far-reaching implications of these results are discussed. In particular, we determine the exact relation between the magnetic flux and the Baryonic charge as well as the critical value of the Baryonic chemical potential beyond which these configurations become thermodynamically unstable.
Investigating the wear performance of AZ91D magnesium composites with ZnO, MnO, and TiO2 nanoparticles
Authors: Gnanavelbabu Annamalai , Vinothkumar Elayarasan , Ross Nimel Sworna , Prahadeeswaran Muthu
Published: November 2023

In recent decades, there has been a notable advancement in the field of bioactive, biodegradable, and biocompatible metallic materials, particularly for applications in general surgery. Among these materials, magnesium alloy-based composites have gained popularity due to their excellent biological properties and adequate strength. However, their resistance to wear is still an area that requires further investigation. Therefore, this study examines the wear properties of stir-ultrasonic-squeeze-casted magnesium (AZ91D) composites, incorporating distinct nanoparticles such as ZnO, MnO, and TiO2. The Evaluation-based Distance from Average Solution (EDAS) approach is used to determine the optimal parameters. Additionally, an Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) is conducted to identify the crucial factors influencing the responses. The effect of process factors on the wear rate and Coefficient of Friction (COF) is then investigated using response surface plots. The confirmation assessments reveal that the optimal parameter conditions for the tribo process comprise a 50.0018 N applied load, a 1.4998 m/s sliding velocity, and the AZ91D + 1% TiO2 (ATO) composite utilization. The ANOVA findings demonstrate that the applied load significantly contributes to 67.3% of the wear performance. Subsequently, after determining the optimal condition, it is observed that the ATO composite, when exposed to temperatures above 150 °C, exhibits an abrupt increase in wear rate and COF due to the degradation of grain strength and the dissolution of the β-phase within the composite.
Short stem hip arthroplasty with the optimys prosthesis is a safe and effective option for obese patients: a mid-term follow-up multicenter study
Authors: Hinz Nico , Marsoni Giulia , Mittelstädt Hagen , Sonnabend Falk , Wallroth Karsten , Johl Carsten , Weigert Ulrich , Anderl Conrad , Ortmaier Reinhold , Zeleny Natividad , Schulz Arndt-Peter
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Short stems are a valuable option in young patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA) because of their bone stock preserving properties facilitating revision hip arthroplasty. Although the effect of obesity on conventional THA is well studied, data about short stem THA in obese patients are lacking. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the influence of obesity on complications, revisions, and outcome after short stem THA.

Materials and methods

This multicenter, observational cohort study included patients undergoing short stem THA with the optimys prosthesis. Follow-up examinations were performed at specific intervals up to 7 years postoperatively. Operation characteristics, general and specific complications, revisions, VAS rest pain, VAS load pain, VAS patient satisfaction, and Harris Hip Score (HHS) were recorded and statistically compared between obese (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2) and non-obese (BMI < 30 kg/m2) patients.

Results

Of the 224 patients included with a mean follow-up of 87.2 months (range 81.9–104.0), 69 were assigned to the OB group and 155 to the non-OB group. A minimally invasive approach was significantly less often selected in obese patients (p = 0.049), whereas operating time and length of hospital stay were not significantly different. The rate of general and specific complications did not significantly differ between both groups. Survival of the optimys prosthesis was 99.1% at 7-year follow-up and one patient per group had to undergo revision surgery. VAS rest pain, load pain, and satisfaction improved from preoperatively to postoperatively in both groups without a significant difference between both groups. While the HHS was improved from preoperatively to postoperatively, obese patients showed a significantly lower HHS at the 7-year follow-up (p = 0.01) but still exhibited an excellent scoring above the PASS threshold.

Conclusion

Short stem THA with the optimys prosthesis is a safe and effective option also in obese patients with an excellent clinical outcome and a low complication rate.
A new model for evaluating pressure-induced vascular tone in small cerebral arteries
Authors: Coccarelli Alberto , Pant Sanjay , Polydoros Ioannis , Harraz Osama F.
Published: November 2023

The capacity of small cerebral arteries (SCAs) to adapt to pressure fluctuations has a fundamental physiological role and appears to be relevant in different pathological conditions. Here, we present a new computational model for quantifying the link, and its contributors, between luminal pressure and vascular tone generation in SCAs. This is assembled by combining a chemical sub-model, representing pressure-induced smooth muscle cell (SMC) signalling, with a mechanical sub-model for the tone generation and its transduction at tissue level. The devised model can accurately reproduce the impact of luminal pressure on different cytoplasmic components involved in myogenic signalling, both in the control case and when combined with some specific pharmacological interventions. Furthermore, the model is also able to capture and predict experimentally recorded pressure-outer diameter relationships obtained for vessels under control conditions, both in a Ca$$^{2+}$$

2
+

-free bath and under drug inhibition. The modularity of the proposed framework allows the integration of new components for the study of a broad range of processes involved in the vascular function.
Palbociclib sensitizes ER-positive breast cancer cells to fulvestrant by promoting the ubiquitin-mediated degradation of ER-α via SNHG17/Hippo-YAP axis
Authors: Lei Lei , Huang Yuan , Shi Lei , Ye Weiwu , Lv Xianmei , Ying Lisha , Yu Xingfei , Cheng Skye Hung-Chun , Zheng Yabing
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Endocrine therapy is the anti-tumor therapy for human breast cancer but endocrine resistance was a major burden. It has been reported that Palbociclib and fulvestrant can be used in combination for the treatment of patients who are experiencing endocrine resistance. However, the underlying mechanism is unclear. In this study, we aimed to investigate the mechanism by which Palbocicilib affected ER-positive breast cancer, combined with fulvestrant.

Methods

We first detected the effect of palbociclib on cell survival, growth and cycle distribution separately by MTT, colony formation and flow cytometry. Then SNHG17 was screened as palbociclib-targeted LncRNA by LncRNA-seq, and the SNHG17-targeted mRNAs were selected by mRNA-seq for further determination. Subsequently, the underlying mechanism by which palbociclib promoted the cytotoxicity of fulvestrant was confirmed by qRT-PCR, western blot, and immunoprecipitation. Eventually, the xenograft model and immunohistochemistry experiments were used to validate the sensitization effect of palbociclib on fulvestrant and its mechanism in vivo.

Results

Palbociclib significantly enhanced the cytotoxicity of fulvestrant in fulvestrant-resistant breast cancer cell lines. Interestingly, this might be related to the lncRNA SNHG17 and the Hippo signaling pathway. And our subsequent western blotting experiments confirmed that overexpressing SNHG17 induced the down-regulation of LATS1 and up-regulated YAP expression. Furthermore, we found that the increased sensitivity of breast cancer cells was closely associated with the LATS1-mediated degradation of ER-α. The following animal experiments also indicated that overexpressing SNHG17 obviously impaired the anti-cancer effect of co-treatment of palbociclib and fulvestrant accompanied by decreased LATS1 and increased ER-α levels.

Conclusion

Palbociclib might sensitize the cytotoxicity of fulvestrant in ER-positive breast cancer cells by down-regulating SNHG17 expression, and then resulted in the LATS1-inactivated oncogene YAP and LATS1-mediated degradation of ER-α.
Changes in the spatio-temporal genetic structure of Baltic sea trout (Salmo trutta L.) over two decades: direct and indirect effects of stocking
Authors: Burimski Oksana , Vasemägi Anti , Gross Riho
Published: November 2023

Several countries have implemented stocking programmes to enhance abundance and fish production by releases of hatchery-reared fish. However, due to fluctuations in population size, stocking history, and potential indirect effects of straying of hatchery-reared fish, it is often difficult to predict how these factors will affect genetic diversity and differentiation patterns among wild populations. This study characterized the population genetic structure and temporal variability of four Estonian sea trout populations by evaluating the degrees of direct and indirect genetic impacts of stocking over two decades using 14 microsatellite loci. Our results demonstrate considerable temporal change combined with weak genetic structuring among studied sea trout populations. We found a reduction of the overall level of genetic differentiation combined with the tendency for increased genetic diversity, and an effective number of breeders (Nb) over the study period. Furthermore, we found that immigration rates (m) from hatchery stocks were highest in the population subjected to direct stocking and in non-stocked populations that were located geographically closer to the stocked rivers. This work suggests that hatchery releases have influenced the genetic diversity and structuring of studied sea trout populations. However, the impact of hatchery releases on the adaptive variation and fitness-related traits in wild trout populations remains to be revealed by more informative genetic markers. This study illustrates the dynamic nature of the population genetic structure of sea trout and the value of long-term genetic monitoring for management and conservation.
Harsh Parenting and Trajectories of Emotional and Behavioural Difficulties in Autistic Children
Authors: Cronshaw Georgia , Midouhas Emily
Published: November 2023

Autistic children show higher rates of co-occurring emotional and behavioural difficulties compared to other children in the general population. However, the environmental factors which contribute to the development of emotional (internalising) and behavioural (externalising) difficulties in autistic individuals are poorly understood. This study sought to investigate the association between harsh parenting (smacking, shouting, telling off) and the trajectories of emotional and behavioural difficulties in autistic children from ages 3 to 7. A sample comprising of 349 autistic children participated from the UK’s Millennium Cohort Study. Associations between harsh parenting and child emotional and behavioural difficulties were modelled using multilevel growth curve models. In autistic children, harsh parenting was associated with total emotional and behavioural difficulties and behavioural (but not emotional) problems concurrently. Moreover, harsh parenting was not associated with changes in emotional and behavioural difficulties over time. Harsh parenting may have an important role in externalising problems in young autistic children indicating the need for public health strategies which educate parents on its effects.
Racial Disparities in Family Income, Assets, and Liabilities: A Century After the 1921 Tulsa Massacre
Authors: Darity William A. , García Raffi E. , Russell Lauren , Zumaeta Jorge N.
Published: November 2023

This paper examines the financial health of racial-ethnic groups in Tulsa, Oklahoma, nearly a century after the 1921 Tulsa Massacre. We use data from the Tulsa National Asset Scorecard for Communities of Color (NASCC) survey to assess the financial health of two demographic groups that were historically the victims of racial violence - Native Americans and Black Americans. Specifically, we investigate financial outcomes a century after these groups made significant economic gains during the Tulsa oil boom in the early 1900 s and were subsequently victimized by racial violence. We find that Black households have statistically significantly less wealth and income than Whites in Tulsa. Our decomposition analysis shows household demographic differences between Blacks and Whites largely do not explain these wealth and income gaps, suggestive of historical discrimination. While in the case of the Native American tribes and Whites, the findings generally show no statistical significance. Compared to other NASCC-surveyed cities that did not experience destruction to the level of the Tulsa Massacre, the Black-White wealth and income gaps and the unexplained portion of the decompositions are the largest in Tulsa. Our results provisionally suggest that past exposure to racial violence can have long-term effects on the economic outcomes of the affected groups decades later.
Resilient Simultaneous Localization and Mapping Fusing Ultra Wide Band Range Measurements and Visual Odometry
Authors: Romanelli Fabrizio , Martinelli Francesco , Mattogno Simone
Published: November 2023

In this paper we consider a Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM) problem for a moving agent using Visual Odometry (VO) while measuring the range from a set of Ultra Wide Band (UWB) antennas, deployed in unknown position in the environment. The solution approach is based on a switching observer which, under standard working conditions, for each observed UWB, uses a two dimensional Extended Kalman Filter (EKF) providing an estimate of the range and bearing of the observed UWB with respect to the agent. This information is then used in a Robust EKF algorithm which solves the SLAM problem with performances that, even before closing the loop, are comparable to the ones that a VO algorithm (namely ORB-SLAM2) would obtain only after closing the loop. Moreover, a resilient module is added to the algorithm to evaluate the reliability of the position estimate of each observed UWB. When the Visual Odometry is not available, the switching observer uses an auxiliary EKF to provide an estimate of the agent position. This makes the proposed approach robust with respect to several kinds of unmodeled disturbances, like multipath effects, and automatically adapts to sensor failures with resilience (e.g. when Visual Odometry or UWB measurements are not available).
Follow the Leader: Parent- and Child-led Synchrony in Competitive and Cooperative play
Authors: Yarmolovsky Jessica , Geva Ronny
Published: November 2023

Social interactions involve both cooperation to achieve a shared goal and competition over shared resources and rewards. The ability to engage in inter-personal coordination is an important measure of socio-emotional and cognitive well-being. Both cooperation and competition require interpersonal coordination, however with different motivational backgrounds. Competition is defined by a higher level of extrinsic motivation, while cooperation is related to more intrinsic motivation. In the context of the parent-child dyad, each individual has different motivations and contributions to the dyad. The parent’s and child’s sense of competitiveness and contribution to inter-personal synchrony will presumably differ from each other and adapt to one another. The current research employed Motion Energy Analysis, an objective measure of coordination of movements between individuals, to measure motor in-phase and anti-phase synchrony during parent-child cooperative and competitive play, with a focus on parent and child-led synchrony. Findings highlight that parents rate themselves as less competitive than their children rate themselves; with no such difference noted in cooperation. Further, parent-led motor synchrony is defined more by in-phase coordination in competition, especially when the interaction is novel. Alternatively, child-led motor synchrony is more anti-phase during competition. In cooperation parents and children lead synchrony to the same extent and in the same phase. Current findings highlight that parent’s and children uniquely adjust their leading behaviors in synchrony in competition, presumably adjusting their behavior to accommodate a complex situation. Given the importance of cooperative and competitive interactions to overall social well-being, and the parent’s role of modeling behaviors for their child, findings may direct future guidance and treatment plans that will promote social development.
Mixed reality in surgical telepresence: a novel extended mean value cloning with automatic trimap generation and accurate alpha matting for visualization
Authors: Dallakoti Roshan , Alsadoon Abeer , Prasad P. W. C. , Al Aloussi Sarmad , Rashid Tarik A. , Alsadoon Omar Hisham , Alrubaie Ahmad , Haddad Sami
Published: November 2023

The aim of this research is to propose an extended mean value cloning algorithm with automatic trimap generation and accurate alpha matting. This implementation improves the visualization accuracy of the merged video by reducing the discolored and smudging artefacts of the remote surgeon’s boundary. It also makes the merge robust for the illumination changes by taking less processing time in real time surgery. The proposed system uses automatic trimap generation from the source video for accurate foreground extraction. Extended mean value cloning with gradient mixing is then applied for the cloning with optimized alpha matting for accurate and realistic video composition. The proposed system improved the visualization accuracy by providing almost 99.7% visibility of the pixels compared to the state-of-the-art solution, which provides 99.1% visibility of pixels. The overlay error was reduced from 0.93 mm to 0.63 mm. The processing time was also reduced. The proposed solution processed 8 frames per second, which is less time than the state-of-the-art solution, which processed 5 frames per second. The extended mean value cloning smooths the differences that presented in the target and source frames for seamless and realistic blending of pixels. The automatic trimap generation reduced the risk of false foreground selection and the generated optimal trimaps improved the alpha matte quality, which is optimized to reduce the smudging artefacts completely and to produce accurate visualization of the final merged image.
A procedural perspective on academic spin-off creation: the changing relative importance of the academic and the commercial sphere
Authors: Cantner Uwe , Doerr Philip , Goethner Maximilian , Huegel Matthias , Kalthaus Martin
Published: November 2023

Academic scientists who commercialize their research findings via spin-off creation have to transition from the academic sphere to the commercial sphere. Along this spin-off creation process, they face challenges adapting to the conflicting logics of these spheres. We hypothesize that throughout the three phases of this process, the importance of the academic sphere decreases while the importance of the commercial sphere increases. We collected a representative sample of 1,149 scientists from the German state of Thuringia. To test our hypotheses, we apply dominance analysis and estimate the relative importance of the two spheres. In line with our hypotheses, the importance of the academic sphere declines and the importance of the commercial sphere increases at the beginning of the process. Towards the end of the process, we observe a further decline in the relative importance of the academic sphere, but, unexpectedly, also a decline for the commercial sphere. Notably, our results show that the commercial sphere is in general more important than the academic sphere throughout the process. Our results challenge existing conceptualizations that emphasize the importance of the academic sphere, especially at the beginning of the spin-off founding process. The results provide intervention points for policy measures to promote academic spin-offs.