bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recent Advances of Metal‐Organic Frameworks and Derivatives for Rechargeable Aluminum Batteries
Authors: Wang Dan‐Yang , Choo Hong‐Han , Hu Erhai , Song Jinxuan , Sumboja Afriyanti , Anggraningrum Ivandini T. , Syahrial Anne Zulfia , Yan Qingyu
Published: December 2024

In light of cost‐effectiveness, high volumetric capacity, and abundant supplies on Earth of aluminum metal, the rechargeable aluminum battery (RAB) represents a cutting‐edge alternative for energy storage devices. RABs have achieved significant progress as a result of tireless efforts; however, challenges like as expensive ionic liquid electrolytes, a restricted voltage window of aqueous electrolytes, corroded anode, and rapid capacity degradation limit their practical applications. In terms of increasing RAB mileage, electrode materials can be regarded as the foundation of battery performance. Metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs), which have customizable topologies, multiple active sites, and various metal centers and ligands, are promising electrode materials. Herein, for the first time, we deliver in detail the recent advancement of MOFs in RABs. The relationship on structure‐properties‐performance of MOFs is thoroughly discussed. MOF and MOF‐derived electrode materials are first summarized. In aluminum sulfur/selenium batteries, MOF can serve as a host to capture the sulfides or selenides. Furthermore, the MOF as catalysts for aluminum‐air batteries are provided. Then we focused on the challenges and opportunities that RABs would face in the future, and some prospects are presented. We believe this account will facilitate the exploration of MOFs in RABs and give more inspiration for discovering advanced RABs.
Non‐Original and Digitally Captured Handwriting: Considerations for Forensic Handwriting Examinations
Authors: Jones Kylie , Bird Carolyne Lindsay
Published: December 2024

Non‐original handwriting and signatures are commonly encountered in the forensic environment. Non‐original handwriting could be the product of a reproduction, or originally executed writing that has been digitally recorded or captured. Forensic handwriting examiners (FHEs) are required to take into consideration several limiting factors when expressing opinions regarding apparent similarities and/or dissimilarities when examining non‐original samples of writing. Handwriting that has been digitally captured has a unique set of limitations but could also have additional, useful features such as dynamic measurements that, under certain conditions, can contribute to the comparison. This article is an overview of the rationale for the special treatment and thought afforded to non‐original and digitally captured writing during a handwriting or signature examination and comparison process and is intended to guide the thought process and considerations required by FHEs when encountering this type of material.
Fazilitatoren und Barrieren im Raumplanungsprozess
Authors: Schmid Ludwig , Tokarski Kim Oliver
Published: December 2024

Beim vorliegenden essential handelt es sich um eine Ergebniszusammenfassung einer empirisch, qualitativen Forschungsarbeit, die die Fazilitatoren und Barrieren im Raumplanungsprozess von Kliniken aufzeigt. Im Rahmen von 3 Fokusgruppeninterviews wurden dafür neben planungsbeteiligten Nutzer:innen, also direkten Vertreter:innen von Kliniken in einem Neu- oder Umbauprojekt, auch verschiedene Betriebsprojektleiter:innen, Architekt:innen, Prozess- und/oder Innovationsmanager:innen sowie Gesamtprojektleiter:innen interviewt. Im Folgenden werden daher ergänzend Zitate aus den Fokusgruppeninterviews aufgeführt, um ein direkteres Verständnis zu erhalten.
Fazit mit Handlungsempfehlungen
Authors: Schmid Ludwig , Tokarski Kim Oliver
Published: December 2024

Zusmmenfassung

Wie das vorliegende essential aufzeigt, spielt der Faktor Mensch vor allem im Klinikneubau eine ganz zentrale und entscheidende Rolle. So wird unter Architekt:innen ein Krankenhaus oftmals noch als Ort der Heilung für den Menschen als Patient:in gesehen und auch entsprechend aus dieser Perspektive konzipiert. Dies, obwohl bei den immer kürzer werdenden Aufenthaltsdauern in der Praxis nur bedingt Zeitraum für Heilung und Erholung bleibt.
UNIR Declaration for an Ethical Use of Artificial Intelligence in Higher Education
Authors: Burgos Daniel , Corbí Alberto , Griffiths Dai , Ghorbal Bad’r , Frías-Martínez Enrique , González-Crespo Rubén , José José Carlos San , Moreno-Ger Pablo
Published: December 2024

This declaration aims to establish a consensus that can guide all stakeholders in the higher education system (teachers, students, management staff, governing board, researchers, etc.) in the use, application and even the development of AI-based solutions. The declaration commences with a general introduction and a definition of AI. This is followed by some examples of current uses of AI, and discussion of various applications. Finally, a set of principles is presented, focussed on the role that UNIR seeks in providing a reference model for the implementation of global regulations on AI or any other technology in education that creates a social challenge.
A Retrospective Analysis of Artificial Intelligence in Education (AIEd) Studies: Perspectives, Learning Theories, Challenges, and Emerging Opportunities
Authors: Mohammed Ahmed Taiye , Velander Johanna , Milrad Marcelo
Published: December 2024

Recent advances in Information and Communication Technologies (ICT), especially AI-powered tools, are driving innovation and productivity across academic and industrial sectors. These technologies are also transforming education by enabling personalized learning, redefining teaching methods, and enhancing educational outcomes. Given the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence in Education (AIEd), it is essential to examine its benefits and implications for the future of education. AI tools offer substantial benefits to various educational stakeholders by enhancing cognitive engagement, improving teaching assessments, and fostering digital literacy. Additionally, they support policy development, address ethical considerations, and increase educational efficiency and accessibility. However, despite AI’s potential in education, the rapid pace of technological change can create uncertainty and overwhelm, even among experts. As AIEd advances, it is crucial to develop strategies that help educators and institutions stay updated on new developments and integrate them effectively into educational settings. This study explores the historical development of AIEd and identifies current research trends through a dual-method approach. First, a bibliometric analysis using VOSViewer uncovers patterns in AIEd research over the past 50 years. Second, text mining techniques using term frequency analysis and topic modeling—examine over 2,204 abstracts from Scopus, covering publications from 1970 to the present. By combining these methods, the study highlights key AIEd research areas that impact stakeholders and influence future educational practices. Understanding the evolution of AIEd and current trends is essential for anticipating its future trajectory, preparing us to address emerging challenges and opportunities in education. The findings trace the progression of AIEd research, revealing shifts in focus, underlying learning theories, and application paradigms. This comprehensive overview helps identify research gaps and emerging themes, supporting the development of strategies to leverage AIEd’s potential in transforming education and meeting the complex, evolving needs of twenty-first century stakeholders.
Schwangerschaft nach assistierter Reproduktion – Was ist zu beachten?
Authors: Fluhr Herbert
Published: December 2024

Schwangerschaften nach assistierter Reproduktion haben ein höheres Risiko für plazentavermittelte Komplikationen ebenso wie peripartale Probleme, insbesondere bei Vorhandensein einer Endometriose. Zusätzlich ist ein gering erhöhtes Auftreten von fetalen Fehlbildungen zu verzeichnen, wenngleich es sich überwiegend um kleinere Auffälligkeiten handelt. Eine entsprechend intensive Überwachung von Schwangerschaften nach reproduktionsmedizinischen Verfahren ist daher sinnvoll und notwendig.
Influence of cochlear coverage on speech perception in single sided deafness, bimodal, and bilateral implanted cochlear implant patients
Authors: Spiegel Jennifer L. , Mueller Joachim , Boehnlein Rebecca , Hempel John-Martin , Spiro Judith E. , Weiss Bernhard G. , Bertlich Mattis , Canis Martin , Rader Tobias
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Individualized cochlear implantation (CI) is essential to facilitate optimal hearing results for patients. Influence of cochlear coverage (CC) has been studied, however without consideration of different CI-categories, like single sided deafness (SSD), bimodal, and bilateral separately.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of preoperative CT scans was performed at a tertiary center. For each patient their individual CC with the selected electrode array was calculated off the complete CDL. Patients were categorized into SSD (n = 30), bimodal (n = 72), and bilateral CI patients (n = 29). Speech perception within the first 12 months post-implantation was compared between patient groups with shorter and longer CC. For subgroup analysis the cutoff between a shorter or longer CC was identified by the median.

Results

Cutoff between a shorter or longer CC was identified at 65% off the complete CDL for SSD and bimodal patients, and at 70% for bilateral patients. In SSD-patients longer CC was associated with better performance at activation (CCshorter 20.0 ± 28.9% vs. CClonger 31.5 ± 24.7%; p = 0.04) and no benefit was found with deeper insertion at 12 months. No significant benefit was found for deeper insertion in bimodal and bilateral patients.

Conclusions

Capacities of hearing performance seem to differ between SSD, bimodal and bilateral patients within the first year after implantation with regards to cochlear coverage. SSD-patients appear to benefit from deeper insertion than 65% up to 12 months after implantation. However, these results should be interpreted with caution, hence development of speech perception with CI is influenced by a whole range of factors, and bimodal and bilateral treated patients are extremely heterogenous patient groups.
The impact of lymphedema severity on shoulder joint function and muscle activation patterns in breast cancer survivors: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Mohamed Mahmoud Hamada , Radwan Rafik E. , ElMeligie Mohamed M. , Ahmed Abdelrazak , Sakr Hend R. , ElShazly Mahmoud
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the impacts of breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL) severity on shoulder function including range of motion, strength, muscle activation patterns, and patient-reported disability.

Methods

A cross-sectional, observational study design was utilized. Seventy-five women with unilateral BCRL were recruited and categorized into mild, moderate, and severe groups based on limb swelling severity. Outcomes included shoulder range of motion, isometric strength, Disabilities of Arm Shoulder and Hand (DASH) scores for disability, and surface electromyography (EMG) of shoulder muscles. Data were analyzed using parametric and nonparametric tests.

Results

Increasing lymphedema severity was associated with progressive declines in shoulder mobility, strength, and function. Severe cases showed markedly reduced shoulder flexion, abduction, rotation, and extension range of motion along with decreased isometric flexor and abductor strength versus mild cases (p < 0.001). Higher pain levels (p < 0.001) and DASH disability scores (p < 0.001) were noted in severe BCRL. Surface EMG revealed impaired activation patterns including reduced amplitudes (p < 0.001) and delayed onsets (p < 0.001) in the deltoids, rotator cuff, and scapular muscles with greater impairment.

Conclusions

Advancing BCRL severity was associated with substantial declines in shoulder mobility, strength, neuromuscular activation, pain threshold, and upper limb functionality. These quantitative results demonstrate impaired shoulder joint control underlying disability in arm elevation and daily tasks. The progressive nature of these deficits highlights the relationship between lymphedema severity and shoulder dysfunction in breast cancer survivors.
Machine learning for predicting post-operative outcomes in meningiomas: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Abualnaja Siraj Y. , Morris James S. , Rashid Hamza , Cook William H. , Helmy Adel E.
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Meningiomas are the most common primary brain tumour and account for over one-third of cases. Traditionally, estimations of morbidity and mortality following surgical resection have depended on subjective assessments of various factors, including tumour volume, location, WHO grade, extent of resection (Simpson grade) and pre-existing co-morbidities, an approach fraught with subjective variability. This systematic review and meta-analysis seeks to evaluate the efficacy with which machine learning (ML) algorithms predict post-operative outcomes in meningioma patients.

Methods

A literature search was conducted in December 2023 by two independent reviewers through PubMed, DARE, Cochrane Library and SCOPUS electronic databases. Random-effects meta-analysis was conducted.

Results

Systematic searches yielded 32 studies, comprising 142,459 patients and 139,043 meningiomas. Random-effects meta-analysis sought to generate restricted maximum-likelihood estimates for the accuracy of alternate ML algorithms in predicting several postoperative outcomes. ML models incorporating both clinical and radiomic data significantly outperformed models utilizing either data type alone as well as traditional methods. Pooled estimates for the AUCs achieved by different ML algorithms ranged from 0.74–0.81 in the prediction of overall survival and progression-/recurrence-free survival, with ensemble classifiers demonstrating particular promise for future clinical application. Additionally, current ML models may exhibit a bias in predictive accuracy towards female patients, presumably due to the higher prevalence of meningiomas in females.

Conclusion

This review underscores the potential of ML to improve the accuracy of prognoses for meningioma patients and provides insight into which model classes offer the greatest potential for predicting survival outcomes. However, future research will have to directly compare standardized ML methodologies to traditional approaches in large-scale, prospective studies, before their clinical utility can be confidently validated.
Discretisation of an Oldroyd-B viscoelastic fluid flow using a Lie derivative formulation
Authors: Ashby Ben S. , Pryer Tristan
Published: December 2024

In this article, we present a numerical method for the Stokes flow of an Oldroyd-B fluid. The viscoelastic stress evolves according to a constitutive law formulated in terms of the upper convected time derivative. A finite difference method is used to discretise along fluid trajectories to approximate the advection and deformation terms of the upper convected derivative in a simple, cheap and cohesive manner, as well as ensuring that the discrete conformation tensor is positive definite. A full implementation with coupling to the fluid flow is presented, along with a detailed discussion of the issues that arise with such schemes. We demonstrate the performance of this method with detailed numerical experiments in a lid-driven cavity setup. Numerical results are benchmarked against published data, and the method is shown to perform well in this challenging case.
Preliminary design and development of the module back-end electronics for the large area detector onboard the eXTP mission
Authors: Xiong Hao , Bayer Jörg , Santangelo Andrea , Feroci Marco , Del Monte Ettore , Guzman Alejandro , Hedderman Paul , Minervini Gabriele , Pliego Samuel , Putz Andreas , Tenzer Chris , Trois Alessio , Wang Xianqi
Published: December 2024

The Large Area Detector (LAD) is one of the science payloads of the enhanced X-ray Timing and Polarimetry (eXTP) mission. The LAD is a spectral-timing instrument with a broad energy response, covering a range from 2 to 30 keV, a good timing resolution of better than 10 µs, and an expected energy resolution of 260 eV at 6 keV. The LAD consists of 640 large-area multi-anode Silicon Drift Detectors (SDDs). Given the large number of detectors, the LAD uses a modular design. Each module comprises sixteen detectors, and each detector is equipped with dedicated Front-End Electronics (FEE), interfacing with two separate Module Back-End Electronics (MBEEs). Each MBEE is designed to process the data from 1,792 anode channels in 8 FEEs (224 anode channels per FEE), performing the energy reconstruction and time tagging for X-ray events. The MBEE uses the European Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) from NanoXplore™, based on a pipeline concept, which reduces dead time, making the LAD suitable for higher flux X-ray detection, and it can handle a sustained flux of >500 mCrab and a continuous flux of >15 Crab for up to 300 minutes (Feroci et al. 2018). Additionally, the MBEE serves as the central hub for configuring the module’s electronics, including the FEEs, the Power Supply Unit (PSU), and the MBEE itself, and it is also responsible for collecting housekeeping data to monitor the system’s status. The prototype MBEE was designed, manufactured, and programmed with FPGA firmware using VHDL. The basic functional test was conducted in this paper, and the results indicated that the MBEE could be operated in different modes to perform the functions mentioned above. Analysis and testing show that it can transmit event packets-containing timing tag, event type, position ID, and energy information-at a baud rate of 2 Mbps with an event loss fraction of 1.5%.
Etiology of panurethral strictures in a low socioeconomic status population
Authors: Jain Kunj , Patel Radhika , Popovic Aleksandar , Pandher Meher , Alwaal Amjad
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Panurethral strictures represent the most severe form within the anterior urethral stricture spectrum, requiring more technically complex repairs and resulting in poorer outcomes compared to localized anterior urethral strictures (penile or bulbar). This abstract aims to describe the distinct characteristics of patients with panurethral strictures in a low socioeconomic status population.

Methods

Patients presenting with localized anterior (penile or bulbar) or panurethral strictures at University Hospital in Newark, NJ, between 2021 and 2023 were retrospectively identified. Data were extracted from electronic medical records and analyzed statistically using IBM SPSS Software.

Results

Among the patients, 33 had localized anterior urethral strictures, and 22 had panurethral stricture disease. Hispanic and African American patients accounted for the majority of stricture cases (63.6%), including 59% of the panurethral stricture cohort. The only statistically significant factor contributing to panurethral disease was lichen sclerosis (p < 0.05). Patients with panurethral strictures had a higher incidence of inflammatory and systemic diseases such as STDs, recurrent UTIs, diabetes, and hypertension, while those with localized anterior urethral strictures showed a higher incidence of iatrogenic factors, including prior catheterizations and transurethral surgeries. However, these factors did not reach a statistical significance. Hypospadias repair was observed in 6% of localized anterior urethral stricture cases, compared to 13.6% of panurethral stricture cases.

Conclusion

While iatrogenic causes remain the predominant contributors, inflammatory and systemic conditions, particularly lichen sclerosis, significantly influence the development of panurethral strictures. Early surgical intervention and better management of systemic diseases may prevent the progression of localized anterior urethral strictures to panurethral disease, but further studies utilizing larger number of patients may shed light on the significance of these systemic factors.
Application of integrated full-membrane platform in antibody purification
Authors: Wang Xiaoyang , Wei Lan , Zhang Sen , Zhang Yuxin , Li Min , Wang Shujing , Gao Kai , Zhao Puya
Published: December 2024

Antibody products are promising therapeutic candidates for various diseases, such as cancers and autoimmune disorders. Owing to the improvement of cell culture technology in recent years, the production titers of antibodies can reach up to 10 g/L. With such high titers in upstream production, advancements in the development of downstream separation and purification techniques are highly desired. To ensure a balance between handling the increased product supply and maintaining the high purity required for biopharmaceutical applications, membrane chromatography is an efficient and cost-effective technique that can be used to separate and purify proteins and other biological components. In this study, we developed a full-membrane platform that uses affinity membrane chromatography to capture antibodies, which is followed by a two-step flow-through polishing process involving anion exchange membrane chromatography and hydrophobic interaction membrane chromatography. We tested five molecules using this platform, and the outcomes of membrane chromatography were comparable to those of column chromatography in terms of yield and product quality. Moreover, full-membrane chromatography might lead to a cost reduction of > 70% in chromatography media. Altogether, the full-membrane platform developed in this has potential applications in downstream processes of antibody production.
Respiratory syncytial virus infection in patients with haematological diseases: a retrospective multicentre study
Authors: Herrmann Sebastian , Graefe Stephanie , Christopeit Maximilian , Sonnemann Piet , Hattenhauer Tessa , Mispelbaum Rebekka , Monin Malte B. , Orth Hans Martin , Flasshove Charlotte , Gruell Henning , Klein Florian , Klein Uwe , Lehmann Clara , Naendrup Jan-Hendrik , Stemler Jannik , Salmanton-Garcia Jon , Markus Theresa , Cornely Oliver A. , Mellinghoff Sibylle C.
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study aims to evaluate the burden of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections in patients with haematological diseases. It seeks to analyse the relevance of prevention, diagnosis and treatment of RSV infections.

Methods

A multi-centre, retrospective study was conducted across University Hospitals in Cologne, Düsseldorf, Bonn, and the University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf between Jan 2016 and Aug 2023. All haematological patients with diagnosed RSV infection were included. The study focused on the incidence of RSV, underlying conditions, comorbidities, coinfections and clinical outcomes such as hospitalization, intensive care unit (ICU) admission and mortality.

Results

Of 166 patients, 89 (53.6%) had signs of pneumonia and 37 (22.3%) were admitted to ICU due to RSV infection, while 20 (54%) of those were mechanically ventilated with median duration of 11 days (1,33; IQR:18). Mean age was 60 years (range 14–88). Sixteen patients (9.6%) were treated as outpatients, while 52 (31.3%) were hospitalized due to RSV infection; the median hospital stay was 16 days (IQR 25.25, range 0–97). 79 (47.6%) of patients presented with leukopenia and 57 (34.3%) with neutropenia. In total, 22 patients (13.3%) died within 30 days and 29 (17.5%) died within 90 days. Highest mortality rates were seen in patients with aggressive lymphoma (23.5%) and acute leukaemia (18%).

Conclusion

RSV significantly impacts patients with haematological diseases, leading to high rates of hospitalization, ICU admission, and mortality. Preventive measures, such as vaccination, alongside early diagnosis and individualized management, are essential to reduce RSV-associated morbidity and mortality in this high-risk population.
Holistic Decision-Making for Optimal Siting of Urban Earthquake Emergency Shelters: An Integrated Ontology and Fuzzy-AHP Approach
Authors: Li Zimo , Khudhair Ali , Li Haijiang
Published: December 2024

Earthquakes are amongst the most destructive natural hazards, posing substantial risks to urban populations and infrastructure. As cities grow and modernise, identifying optimal locations for Urban Earthquake Emergency Shelters (UEES) becomes key for ensuring public safety. However, this process involves complex, multi-faceted criteria that must be carefully evaluated. This paper introduces a multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) framework thatffiga integrates ontology with the fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (FAHP) to prioritise potential locations. A key contribution is the use of an ontology to model and interconnect the diverse criteria necessary for UEES site selection, providing a structured perspective that enhances both the theoretical understanding and practical decision-making in urban emergency management. The designed ontology structures and analyses the selection criteria, which are then processed using the FAHP to prioritise potential sites. This framework was validated through a case study in Beijing, where the Shijingshan and Haidian districts were identified as the most suitable locations due to high safety levels, economic benefits, and infrastructure interactions. The results also highlight key challenges in planning and construction across different sites. By combining ontology with FAHP, this framework optimises UEES location selection and supports the digital transformation of urban emergency management systems, offering a holistic, data-driven approach to disaster preparedness.
Ethics in Business Research and Innovation. An Institutionalisation Framework
Authors: González-Esteban Elsa
Published: December 2024

Progress in Responsible Research and Innovation (RRI) has proved to be a decisive step in many institutions, following the guidelines and encouragement of the European Union and academic proposals. One of the dimensions recent studies have considered central for making progress in the practical development of theoretical proposals for RRI is the institutionalisation of reflexivity at the core of the organisations that develop RRI. This is particularly the case with the promotion of processes that facilitate the establishment of ethical standards throughout the research and innovation cycle. This study attempts to deal with discourses about the institutional reflexivity formulated in the past 15 years based on RRI from a critical-ethical point of view. It does so using the business ethics theory of discourse. This analysis shows that, for this institutional reflexivity to be possible, it is necessary to base the RRI model on a critical-ethical horizon and design an ethical governance system that allows its practical development.
Helical milling hole finishing of Inconel 718 parts manufactured by laser powder bed fusion
Authors: Pereira Robson Bruno Dutra , Pérez-Ruiz Jose David , Gómez-Escudero Gaizka , Calleja-Ochoa Amaia , Villarrazo-Rubia Nagore , Brandão Lincoln Cardoso , Lacalle Luis Norberto López de
Published: December 2024

Additive manufacturing through laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) has evolved into a key manufacturing process, but machining is still crucial to improve part quality. Holes in LPBF parts present poor accuracy, and helical milling with conventional endmills can be a suitable operation to finish holes in printed metal parts. Due to its superior properties, Inconel 718 is widely applied in aero-engine parts, requiring high reliability. However, Inconel 718 presents a tendency of machining hardening, being classified as a difficult-to-machine material. This work investigates the finishing through helical milling of holes in parts of Inconel 718 obtained through LPBF. LPBF parts of Inconel 718 were obtained with pre-holes and these were finished through helical milling. Holes of LPBF parts may present significant geometrical error. The results indicate that helical milling is suitable for improving the quality of LPBF holes. LPBF parts obtained with the laser scan angle of 67$$^{\circ }$$

∘

with thermal treatment presented higher grain refinement and precipitates, resulting in the highest cutting forces and roughness. Cutting force patterns presented a significant correlation with geometrical error variation. Process modeling highlighted the most influential LPBF and helical milling parameters on cutting forces and roughness. The axial and tangential feeds presented directly and inversely proportional effects on cutting forces, respecting the kinematics and undeformed chip volumes. Finally, bi-objective optimization was performed to guide the choice of the best conditions to achieve improved roughness and lowest cutting forces.
Influence of varying volume energy densities on the magnetic properties of additively manufactured Ni50Fe50
Authors: Müller Sven , Krämer Andreas , Goossens Nils , Bendlin Thania , Mattulat Thorsten
Published: December 2024

The state of the art of nickel iron alloys specifies that low porosity and large grain sizes are essential to reach sufficient soft magnetic properties, e.g. like low coercivity. Both porosity and grain size are influenced by the volume energy density (VED) used during additive manufacturing (AM) and are relatively independent of the part geometry. Additional factors like residual stresses, also affecting the magnetic properties, are not only influenced by the VED but also the part geometry and are distributed irregularly. Based on this, the geometry independent adjustment of residual stresses is only possible to a limited extent. Due to this, it is of high interest whether the sole consideration and adaption of grain size and porosity is sufficient to reach and assure soft magnetic properties for Ni50Fe50 in as-built condition. In this study, it is investigated whether soft magnetic properties can be achieved during AM of a Ni50Fe50 alloy using a standard laser powder bed fusion (PBF-LB) process by varying the used VED. The influence of increasing VEDs of up to 667 J/mm3 in the manufacturing process on grain size, porosity, saturation flux density and coercivity is analyzed. It could be shown that in a defined parameter field, the magnetic properties can be improved with increasing energy density, as larger grains are formed, while the relative density is not decisively reduced (minimal coercivity 184 A/m). However, it could also be shown that a standard PBF-LB process and the sole consideration of grain size and porosity is not applicable to reach soft magnetic properties (coercivity of < 100 A/m) in as-built condition and additional characteristics like residual stresses need to be taken into consideration in future works.
A model for the interaction of a pathogen and an innovative antimicrobial nanocoating
Authors: Bellanato Israel , Benito Clemente Alberto , Royo Patricia
Published: December 2024

In the ongoing battle against infectious diseases, innovative nanotextured antipathogenic coatings provide promising avenues for preventing pathogens from spreading. Understanding their interactions at the micro/nanoscale is crucial for improving their design and efficacy. This work proposes a model for the interaction between pathogens and nanotextured antipathogenic coated surfaces. For this purpose, the forces and deformations experienced by pathogens upon contact with nanotextured surfaces are studied. To achieve this goal, a computational model based on the molecular dynamics software ESPResSo and, particularly, the Object-In-Fluid implementation, has been developed, extending the previous works of I. Jančigova et al. and G. Lazzini et al. More specifically, a Staphylococcus Aureus bacterium is modelled as an elastic cell represented by a triangular mesh and immersed in a computational Lattice-Boltzmann fluid. The size, shape and elastic properties of the pathogen cell are tuned, emulating those of Staphylococcus Aureus. A poly(methyl methacrylate) substrate laser-sintered with Ag nanoparticles is modelled with a triangular mesh, and the interactions between the cell and the substrate are introduced through a Lennard-Jones potential. The simulations performed reveal the influence of surface geometry and dispersion in the coated substrate, providing critical insights into designing more effective antibacterial surfaces that inhibit pathogen proliferation.
Strengthening of pre-loaded RC beams using sustainable ambient-cured FA/GGBS geopolymer mortar
Authors: Osman Abdullah Y. , Irshidat Mohammad R.
Published: December 2024

This study investigates the effect of using ambient-cured geopolymer mortar (GPM) made of fly ash (FA) and ground-granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS) as a sustainable strengthening material on the flexural behaviour of pre-loaded reinforced concrete (RC) beams. Ten RC beams were prepared, and then eight of them were loaded at different levels and strengthened with different depths using FA/GGBS-based GPM. The investigated parameters in this study include the effect of pre-loading level and strengthening depth on the ultimate moment capacity, midspan deflection, initial stiffness, toughness, and mode of failure. The obtained results of this study showed that strengthening 50% pre-loaded RC beams using GPM at a depth of 25 mm contributed to improving the moment capacity by about 10%. It was also found that using FA/GGBS-based GPM to strengthen RC beams with a thick layer of GPM affected the flexural behaviour of the strengthened beams negatively. Finally, an analytical model provided by the ACI code was implemented to predict the ultimate moment capacity and instantaneous deflection of the GPM-strengthened RC beams.
Synthesis and Morphology of Slag-based Alkali-Activated Materials
Authors: Komnitsas Konstantinos , Peys Arne , Tampouris Stylianos , Karmali Vasiliki , Bartzas Georgios , Vathi Dimitra , Kritikaki Anna
Published: December 2024

The present study focuses on the optimization of alkali activation of ferronickel (FeNi) slag for the production of alkali-activated materials (AAMs). The effect of the main factors including molarity and SiO2/Na2O molar ratio in the activating solution, pre-curing and curing time, curing temperature, and aging period on the compressive strength and other properties of the final products is assessed. Emphasis is paid to the study of the effect of low curing temperature to decrease the overall footprint of alkali activation. Several analytical techniques including X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) are used for the identification of the mineralogy and the morphology of the precursor and the final products. The experimental results indicate that the produced AAMs achieve a maximum compressive strength of 99 MPa using NaOH molarity 8 mol/L (M), SiO2/Na2O molar ratio 1, curing temperature 80 °C, curing time 24 h, and aging period 7 days. SEM/EDS–energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy analysis indicates that alkali activation results in a homogeneous binding phase, characteristic of the expected iron-rich matrix, while the microstructure of the AAMs is characterized by a glassy and smooth surface without the presence of any visible cracks or defects. The produced AAMs may be used as alternative binders for the replacement of cement in the production of concrete or as construction elements.
A proposed roadmap: one department of surgery’s plan for diversity, equity, and inclusion
Authors: Walsh Maura , Hoyos Gomez Tatiana , Thanawala Ruchi , Tibayan Fred , Worth Patrick , Løfberg Katrine , Hawley Christopher , Hoops Heather , Tinoco-Garcia Luis , Westerlund Truc , Tsikitis V. Liana
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Disparities remain in academic surgery that negatively impact our patients and our community in multiple ways. The Department of Surgery (DoS) at Oregon Health & Sciences University (OHSU) formally established a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Council in 2020 to address the multifaceted etiologies of these inequities. This manuscript describes the steps taken by this council to create a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive workspace, which were guided by the framework provided in the white paper “Ensuring Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion in Academic Surgery” by West et al.

Methods

The DEI Council was constructed into four working groups: Antiracism, Gender Equity, LGBTQIA + , and Community Engagement. Each group is charged with a unique mission statement to address pertinent inequalities. Various initiatives include educational lectures, workshops, quality improvement and health advocacy projects.

Results

The DEI Council has achieved progress by modifying hiring, promotion, and tenure policies and facilitating mentorship. Changes have been made to call expectations and lactation policies for residents and faculty who are expecting or new parents. Nine observerships and financially supported subinternships for underrepresented groups have been completed and will continue. DEI professional development modules, retreats, and monthly cultural humility discussions have been established. Cultural humility and competence of the DoS cohort has been measured through validated tools.

Conclusion

There is much work ahead to achieve our DEI goals. This manuscript demonstrates progress that can be replicated and improved at other institutions as we all strive toward a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive world of academic surgery.
Heat stress promotes the accumulation of tomato yellow leaf curl virus in its insect vector by activating heat shock factor
Authors: Wang Yu-Meng , Xie Ting , He Ya-Zhou , Cuellar Wilmer J. , Wang Xiao-Wei
Published: December 2024

High temperature tends to be a contributing factor to the spread of vector-borne viral diseases by enhancing vector competence. However, the underlying mechanisms of the increased virus transmission capacity of vectors under heat stress are still largely unknown. Tomato yellow leaf curl virus (TYLCV) is one of the most devastating plant DNA viruses worldwide and is transmitted exclusively by Bemisia tabaci. Here, we identified heat shock factor (HSF) as a key transcription factor that mediates TYLCV accumulation in whitefly vectors under heat stress. Quantitative analysis revealed that the amount of TYLCV DNA in whiteflies gradually increased with increasing temperature (above 38 °C). To determine the underlying mechanism, RNA-seq analysis was performed, which revealed that 1 h of heat stress caused a dramatic increase in heat shock protein (HSP) expression. Moreover, the whitefly HSP transcription factor HSF was shown to specifically interact with the intergenic region of TYLCV via yeast one-hybrid and dual-luciferase analyses. Additionally, the transcriptional activity of HSF gradually increased with increasing heat treatment temperature, indicating a similar pattern of virus accumulation under heat stress. Knocking down HSF in whiteflies caused a significant decrease in TYLCV DNA and coat protein. Our results reveal the important role of HSF in mediating virus accumulation in insect vectors under high temperature and provide insights into how environmental factors affect plant virus‒vector interactions.
Evaluating sublethal anticoagulant rodenticide exposure in deceased predatory birds of South-East Queensland, Australia
Authors: Low Zachary , Murray Peter J. , Naseem Noman , McGilp Daniel , Doneley Bob , Beale David J. , Biggs Leo , Gonzalez-Astudillo Viviana
Published: December 2024

The use of anticoagulant rodenticides (ARs) to manage rodent populations can result in unintentional lethal or sublethal poisoning of non-target wildlife, particularly predatory birds. In south-east Queensland, Australia, rodent infestations fluctuate due to favourable environmental conditions, leading to increased AR use and incidences of secondary poisoning. Globally, lethal and sublethal AR exposure has been documented in predatory birds. However, in Australian predatory birds, both the lethal exposure limits and the impacts of sublethal exposure are poorly understood. This study examines AR exposure in 23 raptors and 1 nightjar. Postmortem liver samples were analysed using liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC–MS). Traumatic injuries were observed in 15 birds, and rodent remains were found in the gizzards of 9 individuals. LC–MS revealed that 13 birds had sublethal exposure to ARs, with warfarin, a first-generation AR (n = 11) being the most common, followed by second-generation ARs brodifacoum (n = 3), difethialone (n = 1), and flocoumafen (n = 1). Only six of the thirteen AR-positive birds had rodent remains in their gastrointestinal tracts, highlighting the potential of AR bioaccumulation and associated impacts over time. The contribution of sublethal AR exposure to the death of these predatory birds remains unproven and underscores the need for ongoing research into AR exposure in native predatory birds, especially in areas where threatened avifauna inhabit human-dominated landscapes.
Centella asiatica and its bioactive compounds: a comprehensive approach to managing hyperglycemia and associated disorders
Authors: Singh Loushambam Samananda , Singh Waikhom Somraj
Published: December 2024

Centella asiatica (CA), (also known as Centella asiatica (L.) Urb. or Indian pennywort or Gotu Kola) is native to the tropical regions of Asia and Africa and has a rich history of use in treating a wide range of ailments, including neurological, dermatological, immunological, and metabolic disorders. This plant is rich in bioactive compounds, such as pentacyclic triterpenes (notably Asiaticoside, Asiatic Acid, Madecassoside, and Madecassic Acid), flavonoids, phytosterols, and phenolic acids, which contribute significantly to its therapeutic effectiveness. The medicinal applications of CA are vast, with its chemical constituents exhibiting notable therapeutic potential in areas such as antidiabetic, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, neuroprotective, antioxidant, and wound healing activities. Numerous scientific investigations have validated these applications, confirming the efficacy of its bioactive components. In this critical review, we have conducted a comprehensive analysis of the existing literature to shed light on the pharmacological significance of CA, particularly concerning diabetes and related disorders.
Portrayals of Women in Early Twentieth-Century China
Authors: Ng Sandy
Published: December 2024

Portrayals of Women in Early Twentieth-Century China explores the role played by woman, and their visual representations, in introducing modern design and modern ways of living to China. It investigates this through an analysis of how women and modern design were represented in the advertisements, photographs, and films of Republican-era China. This study explores the intersection of modernity and the Chinese woman, as they negotiated their changing identities through, and with, new designs that proliferated in Chinese households in the first half of the twentieth century. The advertisements, mass media, photographs and films took on the function of social conditioning, conveying to the viewers ideas of modern social standards, behavior and appearances. With women both instrumentalised within these images, and addressed through them, their visual representations became metaphors that fashioned a new portrait of China, while concurrently impacting on the identity, agency and subjectivity of women themselves.
A diet-wide association study for liver cancer risk: findings from a prospective cohort study in Chinese women
Authors: Tuo Jia-Yi , Shen Qiu-Ming , Li Zhuo-Ying , Tan Jing-Yu , Tan Yu-Ting , Li Hong-Lan , Xiang Yong-Bing
Published: December 2024

Although dietary factors have been examined as potential risk factors for liver cancer, the evidence is still inconclusive. Using a diet-wide association analysis, our research evaluated the associations of 126 foods and nutrients on the risk of liver cancer in a Chinese population. We obtained the diet consumption of 72,680 women in the Shanghai Women’s Health Study using baseline dietary questionnaires. The association between each food and nutrient and liver cancer risk was quantified by Cox regression model. A false discovery rate of 0.05 was used to determine the foods and nutrients which need to be verified. Totally 256 incident liver cancer cases were identified in 1,267,391 person-years during the follow-up duration. At the statistical significance level (P ≤ 0.05), higher intakes of cooked wheaten foods, pear, grape and copper were inversely associated with liver cancer risk, while spinach, leafy vegetables, eggplant and carrots showed the positive associations. After considering multiple comparisons, no dietary variable was associated with liver cancer risk. Similar findings were seen in the stratification, secondary and sensitivity analyses. Our findings observed no significant association between dietary factors and liver cancer risk after considering multiple comparisons in Chinese women. More evidence is needed to explore the associations between diet and female liver cancer occurrence.
The effect of azelaic acid on AlCl3-induced neurocognitive impairments and molecular changes in the hippocampus of rats
Authors: Vasegh Saba , Saadati Hakimeh , Abedi Ali , Mostafalou Sara
Published: December 2024

Objectives:

Cognitive function plays a pivotal role in assessing an individual’s quality of life. This research aimed to investigate how azelaic acid (AzA), a natural dicarboxylic acid with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, affects aluminium chloride (AlCl3)-induced behavioural changes and biochemical alterations in the hippocampus of rats.

Methods:

Thirty-two male Wistar rats divided into four groups received distilled water, AzA 50 mg/kg, AlCl3 100 mg/kg and AzA plus AlCl3, respectively, by oral gavage for 6 weeks. Behavioural changes were evaluated using open-field maze, elevated plus maze, novel object recognition (NOR), passive avoidance task, and Morris water maze (MWM) tests. Also, malondialdehyde (MDA), carbonyl protein, tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP), glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta (GSK-3β), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity were examined.

Results:

AzA significantly affected AlCl3-provoked anxiety-like behaviours and learning and memory impairments. It also reduced the toxic effect of AlCl3 on MDA, carbonyl protein, TNF-α, IL-1β, NF-κB and GSK-3β status; however, its beneficial effects on AlCl3-induced changes of CHOP, BDNF and AChE activity were not significant.

Conclusion:

These findings disclosed that AzA could improve behavioural and cognitive function and almost limit the oxidative stress and neuroinflammation caused by AlCl3.