bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A lean approach to comparing the mooring systems of Suezmax tankers
Authors: Hennø Eirik , Schøyen Halvor
Published: October 2024

Mooring Suezmax tankers is a process requiring skilled ship crews and terminal workers to accomplish the time-consuming, hazardous task of securing the ship to a jetty to load or discharge oil cargoes. The advent of new equipment technologies has enabled industry professionals to view the mooring process from a new perspective. A lean approach is applied to analysing alternative mooring processes of Suezmax tankers. A reduction in mooring time of about 30 min is noted when replacing steel wire with high modulus synthetic fibre (HMSF) ropes. Further, a potential time saving of 57 min is noted if automated mooring is used instead of steel wire, and 27 min compared with HMSF. The automated mooring concept reduces the manpower required to perform the mooring process, both on board and ashore. If HMSF lines replace steel wires, a significant reduction is noted in ship and crew time costs incurred with mooring maintenance onboard during sailing. A single case study addresses the two research questions: (1) What is the mooring process of Suezmax tankers? (2) How can the mooring process of Suezmax tankers be enhanced?
Emergency imaging protocols for pregnant patients: a multi-institutional and multi- specialty comparison of physician education
Authors: Eibschutz Liesl , Lu Max Yang , Jannatdoust Payam , Judd Angela C. , Justin Claire A. , Fields Brandon K.K. , Demirjian Natalie L. , Rehani Madan , Reddy Sravanthi , Gholamrezanezhad Ali
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Previous studies have demonstrated that radiologists and other providers perceive the teratogenic risks of radiologic imaging to be higher than they actually are. Thus, pregnant patients were less likely to receive ionizing radiation procedures. While it is imperative to minimize fetal radiation exposure, clinicians must remember that diagnostic studies should not be avoided due to fear of radiation, particularly if the imaging study can significantly impact patient care. Although guidelines do exist regarding how best to image pregnant patients, many providers are unaware of these guidelines and thus lack confidence when making imaging decisions for pregnant patients. This study aimed to gather information about current education, confidence in, and knowledge about emergency imaging of pregnant women among radiology, emergency medicine, and OB/GYN providers.

Methods

We created and distributed an anonymous survey to radiology, emergency medicine, and OB/GYN providers to evaluate their knowledge and confidence in imaging pregnant patients in the emergent setting. This study included a questionnaire with the intent of knowing the correct answers among physicians primarily across the United States (along with some international participation). We conducted subgroup analyses, comparing variables by specialty, radiology subspecialty, and training levels. Based on the survey results, we subsequently developed educational training videos.

Results

108 radiologists, of which 32 self-identified as emergency radiologists, ten emergency medicine providers and six OB/GYN clinicians completed the survey. The overall correct response rate was 68.5%, though performance across questions was highly variable. Within our 18-question survey, four questions had a correct response rate under 50%, while five questions had correct response rates over 90%. Most responding physicians identified themselves as either “fairly” (58/124, 47%) or “very” (51/124, 41%) confident. Amongst specialties, there were differences in performance concerning the knowledge assessment (p = 0.049), with the strongest performance from radiologists. There were no differences in knowledge by training level (p = 0.4), though confidence levels differed significantly between attending physicians and trainees (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

This study highlights deficiencies in knowledge to support appropriate decision-making surrounding the imaging of pregnant patients. Our results indicate the need for improved physician education and dissemination of standardized clinical guidelines.
Liver at crossroads: unraveling the links between obesity, chronic liver diseases, and the mysterious obesity paradox
Authors: Elsabaawy Maha
Published: October 2024

Obesity is a global health issue that is intricately linked to the development and progression of chronic liver disease (CLD). This bidirectional connection, coupled with the obesity paradox (OP), presents a management dilemma. The established influence of obesity on the development and progression of chronic liver disease (CLD) is surpassed by the liver’s impact on the onset and advancement of obesity. Patients with CLD always experience increased energy expenditure, reduced appetite, and low protein synthesis, all of which might lead to weight loss. However, metabolic disturbances, hormonal imbalances, inflammatory signaling, immobility, drugs, and alterations in nutrient metabolism can contribute to the development and exacerbation of obesity. Despite the propagation of the OP concept, none of the guidelines has changed, recommending being overweight. Research bias and confounders might be the lifebuoy explanation. Additionally, overlooking the lethal morbidities of obesity for survival benefits full of suffering seems to be an illogical idea. Therefore, rather than endorsing an overweight status, emphasis should be placed on improving cardiorespiratory fitness and preventing sarcopenia to achieve better outcomes in patients with CLD. Accordingly, the complex interplay between obesity, CLD, and the concept of OP requires a sophisticated individualized management approach. Maximizing cardiorespiratory fitness and mitigating sarcopenia should be considered essential strategies for attaining the most favourable outcomes in patients with chronic liver disease (CLD).
Acute right-sided transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation improves cardio-vagal baroreflex gain in patients with chronic heart failure
Authors: Gentile Francesco , Giannoni Alberto , Navari Alessandro , Degl’Innocenti Eleonora , Emdin Michele , Passino Claudio
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to investigate the acute effects of short-term transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS) on cardio-vagal baroreflex gain and heart rate variability in patients with chronic heart failure (CHF).

Methods

A total of 16 adults with CHF and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) < 50% in sinus rhythm were enrolled (65 ± 8 years, 63% men, LVEF 40 ± 5%, 88% on beta-blockers, 50% on quadruple CHF therapy). Over a single experimental session, after a 10-min baseline recording, each patient underwent two trials of 10-min tVNS (Parasym Device, 200 µs, 30 Hz, 1 mA below discomfort threshold) at either the right or left tragus in a randomized order, separated by a 10-min recovery.

Results

Compared with baseline, tVNS did not affect heart rate, blood pressure, and respiratory rate (p > 0.05), and no patients complained of discomfort or any adverse effect. Right-sided tVNS was associated with a significant increase in cardio-vagal baroreflex gain (from 5.6 ± 3.1 to 7.5 ± 3.8 ms/mmHg, ∆ 1.9 ± 1.6 ms/mmHg, p < 0.001), while no change was observed with left-sided tVNS (∆ 0.5 ± 2.0 ms/mmHg, p = 0.914). These findings were independent of stimulation-side order (excluding any carry-over effect) and consistent across sex, LVEF category, and HF etiology subgroups (p-value for interaction > 0.05).

Conclusions

Acute right-sided tVNS increases cardio-vagal baroreflex gain in patients with CHF and LVEF < 50%, with no tolerability concerns.
Generalised Lat-Igusa-Todorov Algebras and Morita Contexts
Authors: Lanzilotta Marcelo , Vivero José
Published: October 2024

In this paper we define (special) GLIT classes and (special) GLIT algebras. We prove that GLIT algebras, which generalise Lat-Igusa-Todorov algebras, satisfy the finitistic dimension conjecture and give several properties and examples. In addition we show that special GLIT algebras are exactly those that have finite finitistic dimension. Lastly we study Morita algebras arising from a Morita context and give conditions for them to be (special) GLIT in terms of the algebras and bimodules used in their definition. As a consequence we obtain simple conditions for a triangular matrix algebra to be (special) GLIT and also prove that the tensor product of a GLIT

$$\mathbb {K}$$

K

-algebra with a path algebra of a finite quiver without oriented cycles is GLIT.
Passive sampling of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons with low-density polyethylene: Equilibration limitations in aqueous suspensions
Authors: Liu Jialin , Liu Binlong , Xie Shuya , Grathwohl Peter
Published: October 2024

Polyethylene (PE) and other polymers are widely and successfully used as passive samplers for organic pollutants in the environment. This study provides high-resolution experimental data from batch shaking tests on the uptake, reversibility, and linear equilibrium partitioning of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) using two different PE sheets of 30 µm and 80 µm thickness. Kinetics for phenanthrene are well described by a mechanistic first-order model with mass transfer limited by an aqueous boundary layer (with a mean thickness of 170 µm). Equilibration in laboratory batch systems during uptake and desorption is very rapid with characteristic times of 1–2 h but this depends on the boundary condition, e.g., the ratio of PE mass to water volume. Therefore, equilibration of PE in other setups, e.g., in soil slurries or sediment suspensions, may take orders of magnitude longer because the boundary condition for PE changes from finite to infinite bath conditions (soil or sediment particles may keep the concentration in water almost constant). Solid precipitates for high molecular weight PAHs explain partition coefficients below expected values because of kinetic limitations in such a system. Nevertheless, passive sampling can be employed safely if such limitations are considered; furthermore, partition coefficients can be estimated accurately by empirical relationships (e.g., within 0.1 log unit) based on molecular weight, octanol/water partition coefficients, or subcooled liquid solubilities.
Functionalization of boron nitride with poly(catechol-polyamine) and bis(γ-triethoxysilylpropyl)tetrasulfide for preparing epoxy nanocomposites with enhanced thermal conductivity
Authors: Wu Zijian , Yang Changjie , Gao Shunying , Gao Junguo , Almalki Abdulraheem SA , Fallatah Ahmed M. , Ren Juanna , Ibrahim Mohamed M. , Guo Ning , Zhao Wei , Weng Ling , Guo Zhanhu , El-Bahy Zeinhom M.
Published: October 2024

Hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) has garnered significant interest as inorganic thermally conductive material in electronic packaging due to its high-efficiency thermal management capability and electrical insulation properties. However, the relatively inert chemical environment of the BN surface hinders phonon transfer at the interface. Additionally, the high content of inorganic components in the matrix leads to the deterioration of the composite’s mechanical properties. In this research, h-BN surface is modified using poly(catechol-polyamine) (PCPA) and bis (γ-triethoxysi-lylpropyl)tetrasulphide (Si69) (denoted as BN-PCPA-Si69). The noncovalent PCPA modification protects the endothermic properties of BN, Si69 provides covalent bonding between thermally conductive fillers and bisphenol A-type epoxy resin (Ep), and the interfacial compatibility between BN and epoxy resin is improved. The heat conductivity of final BN/Ep composite achieved 0.817 W/(m·K) containing 30 wt% BN. Correspondingly, the heat conductivity of the composite (mBN/Ep) achieved 0.881 W/(m·K) containing 30 wt% BN-PCPA-Si69. Compared to pure epoxy resin (0.200 W/(m·K), the thermal conductivity (TC) of the mBN/Ep composite increased by 364% while maintaining good electrical insulation properties. The proposed BN surface functionalization approach has potential applications in fields such as microelectronic packaging, where materials need to balance high thermal conductivity and electrical insulation.
Synthesis and Characterization of Poly (Erythritol Sebacate)
Authors: Godinho Bruno , Smarandache Diana , Ionescu Cătălina , Cioateră Nicoleta , Ferreira Artur , Gama Nuno
Published: October 2024

Erythritol is a sweetener polyol widely distributed in nature. Its industrial production is based on biotechnological fermentative processes using yeasts. It is used essentially in nutrition and pharmaceutical fields. However, due to its still high price, the use of erythritol is not widespread and is lower than that of other polyols. The use of erythritol for polymer synthesis remains largely unexplored by the scientific community. This work describes the synthesis and characterization of polyester, poly (erythritol sebacate) (PES), obtained by thermal polycondensation of erythritol and sebacic acid in a two steps approach. A prepolymerization step was realized at different temperatures (150 °C, 160 °C and 170 °C, respectively) followed by a cure step at 150 °C. It was found that using a higher temperature allows the same degree of polymerization (50%) to be achieved in a shorter period, but this leads to prepolymers with a more heterogeneous oligomeric composition. This is reflected in the final properties of the polymers after curing. Synthesis at 150 °C produced a polymer with superior mechanical performance (ultimate tensile strength: 0.5 MPa; Young’s modulus: 0.44 MPa: elongation at break: 123%) and higher chemical resistance to solvents than polymers synthesized at 160 °C and 170 °C. The glass transition temperature (Tg) is between − 20 and 0 °C for all polymers and density is 1.08 g/cm3. Based on these results, we believe that PES is a good elastomer with tunable properties and potential for selective absorption of molecules, such as ethanol, that could be useful for beverage industry and biotechnological applications.

Graphical Abstract
Thermogravimetric study on thermal degradation kinetics and polymer interactions in mixed thermoplastics
Authors: Netsch N. , Schröder L. , Zeller M. , Neugber I. , Merz D. , Klein C. O. , Tavakkol S. , Stapf D.
Published: October 2024

Potential interactions during thermal degradation of polymer blends significantly influence product yields and their composition. Therefore, chemical recycling of plastic waste requires fundamental understanding of feedstock dependency for effective process design. This study investigates the pyrolysis of polymer blends (HDPE, LDPE, PP, PS, ABS, PET, PA6, PVC) through thermogravimetric experiments at different heating rates. Sample homogeneity’s impact on interactions is analyzed using particles, powder, coextruded blends, and samples in crucibles with separated compartments. A kinetic model is presented to support the experimental findings, assuming linear superposition of individual polymer kinetics. A proposed grouping of thermoplastics, reflecting their degradation behavior and potential interactions, correlates with the polymer structure. Observed interactions, particularly in blends of heteroatom-containing polymers (N, O, Cl), are accelerated reactions and coke formation. Hence, the model accurately predicts the degradation of heteroatom-free polymer mixtures but encounters challenges with more complex blends. This comprehensive study emphasizes the importance of feedstock composition for future pyrolytic polymer recycling.

Graphical abstract
Prosocial Giving to Various Targets: A Longitudinal Examination in Poland in the First Post-COVID-19 Year
Authors: Nowakowska Iwona , Rajchert Joanna
Published: October 2024

Recently, Europe, including Poland, witnessed several events that encouraged prosocial behaviors toward various actors in social life, including people and organizations. However, are the tendencies to support others changing over the post-COVID-19 yearly period and does that change depend on the target of donations? Based on social support mobilization and deterioration theory and construal level theory, in the current study, we aimed to test the change in the willingness to give money (operationalized as fictitious coins) or time to various targets in need over time. Poles from the general population (N = 566) participated in a 2-wave longitudinal study (first wave conducted in May 2022; second in late April/May 2023). Results showed a drop in the general prosocial giving tendencies of both coins and money over time, which confirms the social support mobilization and deterioration theory. In particular, the willingness to give coins to a Ukrainian refugee and time to Ukrainian and Middle Eastern refugees, as well as a local organization operating for pro-environmental issues and a global organization operating for a better quality of life in the world decreased. Most coins and time were intended to be given to family, a friend, a neighbor, and a Ukrainian refugee, confirming the role of psychological proximity in helping intentions. We provide interpretations of the discovered patterns in the light of previous data. Our analysis may be useful in predicting prosocial giving tendencies, especially for researchers of prosociality, charity organizations, and policymakers.
How sceptics teach us to know
Authors: Klein Peter D.
Published: October 2024

The purpose of this paper is to show (1) that scepticism, in both its traditional forms and contemporary forms, poses no real threat to obtaining inferential empirical knowledge, even if such knowledge requires certainty and (2) that there are some significant lessons to be learned from the traditional sceptics about what constitutes a plausible argument for scepticism and how to obtain knowledge while avoiding dogmatism and (3) that contemporary scepticism is based on several serious mistakes about what is required to obtain empirical knowledge because it both conflates knowing with being dogmatic and inflates the requirements for obtaining empirical knowledge. I will focus on inferential empirical knowledge, rather than knowledge in general, in order to eliminate the necessity of defending one of the various responses to the problem of the regress of reasons. I will limit the discussion to inferential empirical knowledge because it has been the primary target of contemporary arguments for scepticism. I aim to show that we are justified in rejecting the sceptic’s arguments but that we should not be certain that the sceptic is wrong. I hope that it will become obvious that such a seemingly incoherent set of beliefs is part of the correct description of our epistemic position.
Assessment of Climate Change Impact on Flood Hazard Zones
Authors: Dysarz Tomasz , Marcinkowski Paweł , Wicher-Dysarz Joanna , Piniewski Mikołaj , Mirosław-Świątek Dorota , Kundzewicz Zbigniew W.
Published: October 2024

There have been many destructive pluvial and fluvial floods in Poland and the projection of increasing flood hazards in the future is a reason of considerable concern. The maps of river hazard zones are changing over time, and understanding these changes is of primary importance for flood risk reduction and climate change adaptation. This article aims to assess the impact of climate change on the spatial extent and depth classes of flood hazard zones for a selected reach of the River Warta in the western part of Poland. To this end, we integrated the Soil & Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) hydrological model of the Warta River Basin with the 1D hydraulic model HEC-RAS of the selected reach. The climate change effect was quantified based on the coupled model simulations forced with bias-corrected projections from the EURO-CORDEX project. Flood hazard maps were developed for two townships along the River Warta (Oborniki and Wronki), three greenhouse gas concentration scenarios (one for the baseline scenario in the reference period, 1971–2000; one for RCP 4.5 and one for RCP 8.5, for the time horizon 2021–2050) and for three return periods (10-, 100- and 500-year floods). Based on the ensemble mean, the increase in the flooded area projected in the future is more pronounced for RCP8.5 than for RCP4.5. This unique combination of software and data enabled the transformation of climate change impact into the land surface part of the hydrological cycle and assessment of changes in flood hazard and opens the way to assess the potential increases in the economic losses in the future.
Comparing the effects of a specific task instruction and prompts on pre-service teachers’ noticing of classroom management situations
Authors: Gabel Sylvia , Keskin Özün , Gegenfurtner Andreas
Published: October 2024

Attending to relevant information in complex classroom situations can be a challenging task for pre-service teachers which is why teacher education programs often use authentic classroom videos to scaffold pre-service teachers’ professional vision. However, to date, it remains unclear which instructions can guide pre-service teachers’ attention toward classroom management situations to promote the early development of teacher professional vision. This mixed-methods study (n = 85 pre-service teachers) compared effects of (a) a specific task instruction before watching a classroom video and (b) prompts during the classroom video on noticing—indicated by the number, velocity, and relevance of identified classroom management situations. Controlling for mental effort and pedagogical-psychological knowledge,t-Tests showed both types of instruction to have a similar attention-guiding effect. Qualitative analyses of retrospective interviews revealed that pre-service teachers identified verbal reactive classroom management strategies more easily than nonverbal strategies when observing experienced teachers in the classroom videos. We discuss specific task instructions as an economic alternative to the use of prompts in video-based teacher education and—based on our qualitative findings—provide directions for future research.
Electrophoretic Deposition and Physicochemical Properties of Ni- and Fe-Doped Cu–Mn Spinel Coatings Enhanced with Ce0.9Y0.1O2 Nanoparticles on Fe16Cr Ferritic Stainless Steel Interconnects for SOEC Applications
Authors: Mazur Łukasz , Brylewski Tomasz
Published: October 2024

Cu- and Mn-based spinel coatings are currently among the most promising materials for solid oxide electrolyzer cell (SOEC) interconnects due to their high electrical conductivity and ability to eliminate environmentally hazardous cobalt, which is included in the most widely used coatings. However, their properties are affected by the presence of the Cr2O3 scale and high-temperature corrosion, and to mitigate this they could be doped with elements such as Ni and Fe. In addition, the electrical properties of such steel/shell layered systems can be further improved using rare-earth element nanoparticles (Ce0.9Y0.1O2). In this work, low-chromium steel was modified using nanoparticles and/or spinel coatings and oxidized in air atmosphere at 800 °C for 2000 hours. The oxidized systems were then characterized using diffraction studies, microstructural observations and electrical measurements. Electrical studies in particular showed a significant reduction in area-specific resistance for steels modified using a combination of both nanoparticles and spinel coatings.
Development of emulsion foams based on healthier oleogels and their application as low-fat replacers for whipped cream
Authors: El-Sayed Samah M. , Hashim Ayat F.
Published: October 2024

This study aimed to develop emulsion foams (I: 1:1 flaxseed oil to coconut oil; II: 1:2 flaxseed oil to coconut oil; III: 2:1 flaxseed oil to coconut oil) based on the formation of an air-in-water-in oleogel as a healthy substitute for whipped cream.The developed emulsion foamswere assessed for their physicochemical properties and fatty acid composition. They were also characterized through Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), polarized light microscopy (PLM), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Based on the results, emulsion foamII demonstrated a higher overrun percentage (90%) thanI and III (80 and 70%, respectively).The serum leakage values for all formulations were zero after 24 h at 5 °C. While, hardness values for emulsion foams I, II, and III were 0.40 ± 0.03, 0.50 ± 0.10, and 0.30 ± 0.04 N, respectively. The emulsion foamIII had higher unsaturated fatty acids than I and II (54.67% vs. 41.50% and 28.72%). Theemulsion foamsI and II showed more packed air bubbles than the emulsion foamIII.In emulsion foams I, II, and III, the average size of air bubbles was 36, 25.09, and 15.09 μm, respectively. Moreover, the thermal stability of the emulsion foam II is enhancedby increasing the coconut oilratio.
On the Koebe Quarter Theorem for Certain Polynomials of Even Degree
Authors: Ignaciuk Szymon , Parol Maciej
Published: October 2024

We continue research on problems similar to the Koebe Quarter Theorem for close-to-convex polynomials with all zeros of derivative in $$\mathbb T:=\{z\in \mathbb C:|z|=1\}$$

T
:
=
{
z
∈
C
:
|
z
|
=
1
}

. We found the minimal disc containing all images of $$\mathbb D:=\{z\in \mathbb C: |z|<1\}$$

D
:
=
{
z
∈
C
:
|
z
|
<
1
}

and the maximal disc contained in all images of $$\mathbb D$$
D
through polynomials of degree 6. Moreover, we determine the extremal functions for both problems. Furthermore, we state the conjecture concerning polynomials of higher even degrees.
Impact of obesity on allergic respiratory diseases and on mental and cognitive performance
Authors: Geissler Nora , Garner-Spitzer Erika , Inic-Kanada Aleksandra , Pollak Daniela D. , Wiedermann Ursula
Published: October 2024

Background

Obesity and allergies are among the most common diseases of our civilization. Given the simultaneous rise in the prevalence of these diseases in recent years, a potential causal link between the two has been proposed. In particular, obese patients are at an increased risk of developing bronchial asthma, likely due to mechanical restrictions but also to metabolic changes that adversely affect immune function. Neuroscience studies have also shown that obesity can lead to impaired brain function and mental health. In the following review, we will take a closer look at our studies that focus on the influence of obesity on allergic diseases and cognitive performance.

Results

Both human studies and animal models (mice) have shown that obesity leads to increased allergic responses in the airways. Our studies in a mouse model of obesity confirm that an obese phenotype is associated with increased allergic sensitization and manifestation. These changes are associated with significant shifts in the composition of the gut microbial flora. The microbiome changes are further associated with allergic airway inflammation and an increased incidence of T helper 1 (Th1) type pulmonary macrophages. Interestingly, despite the changes in the microbiome, it is possible to effectively prevent allergy development by inducing oral tolerance. Furthermore, it was observed that obese mice show increased signs of anxiety and depression, as well as reduced cognitive performance.

Conclusion

Obesity is a complex metabolic disease that significantly impacts our body’s gut microbiome and immune system, resulting in an increased incidence of allergic asthma and neurological/psychological changes. Attention should be given to both the prophylactic and therapeutic measures to mitigate the impact of obesity, including oral tolerance for managing existing allergic diseases.
Biomarkers for Early Diagnosis of Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis: A Systematic Review
Authors: Zhai Keke , Zang Danyang , Yang Shuguang , Zhang Yu , Niu Siqi , Yu Xueqing
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive interstitial lung disease characterized by high mortality and substantial disease burden. Early diagnosis is critical for improving patient survival and prognosis. This review aims to systematically overview the role of biomarkers in the early diagnosis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), analyze the current research issues, and propose future research directions to provide new insights and methods for the early diagnosis and treatment of this disease.

Methods

As of June 2024, we conducted a systematic literature search in databases including PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane Library, and selected relevant studies. We evaluated the included studies, extracted and synthesized data to summarize the current understanding of biomarkers for early diagnosis of IPF.

Results

The pathogenesis of IPF is intricate, and we primarily focused on biomarkers related to alveolar epithelial cell dysfunction [Krebs von den Lungen-6 (KL-6), Surfactant Protein (SP-A/SP-D), Mucin 5B (MUC5B), Telomere Length (TL)], extracellular matrix remodeling and fibrogenesis [S100 Calcium Binding Protein A4 (S100A4), Matrix Metalloproteinases (MMPs), Periostin (POSTN)], as well as immune dysfunction [Serum Amyloid A (SAA), Chitinase-3-like Protein 1 (YKL-40), Chemokines]. These biomarkers hold potential for the early diagnosis of IPF, but limitations remain, such as the lack of dynamic monitoring and the low rate of clinical application.

Conclusion

Although studies on biomarkers for the early diagnosis of IPF have made some progress, numerous challenges remain. Large-scale and multi-center studies are still needed to develop and validate biomarker panels with early diagnostic utility and to promote their application in clinical practice.
Measuring Career Aspirations in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Education
Authors: Fitzgerald Michael , Salimpour Saeed , McKinnon David , Freed Rachel , Reichart Dan
Published: October 2024

There has been a sustained interest in student perceptions about STEM fields and their choice of careers over the past few decades. Research has shown that there is a decline in students pursuing STEM careers, and this has raised global concern. Despite these issues, no unistructural, broad, parsimonious and unambiguous quantitative instrument exists to probe student career aspirations. This paper highlights the background, extension and validation of an instrument, derived from a previous science-focussed high-quality instrument that allows student career aspirations to be quantitatively characterised. Participants were 1221 undergraduate students, 1003 of whom were judged to have provided good data, from 18 tertiary institutions in the USA and Canada. The resultant instrument is a reliable 20-question survey representing five clearly demarcated domains: Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Education. Each scale possesses high reliability (Cronbach’s alpha > 0.95), and high construct validity as determined by comparisons with their stated choices of career.
Transcriptomic dynamics of ABA response in Brassica napus guard cells
Authors: Villiers Florent , Suhail Yasir , Lee Jade , Hauser Felix , Hwang Jaeung , Bader Joel S. , McKay John K. , Peck Scott C. , Schroeder Julian I. , Kwak June M.
Published: October 2024

Drought has a significant, negative impact on crop production; and these effects are poised to increase with climate change. Plants acclimate to drought and water stress through diverse physiological responses, primarily mediated by the hormone abscisic acid (ABA). Because plants lose the majority of their water through stomatal pores on aerial surfaces of plants, stomatal closure is one of the rapid responses mediated by ABA to reduce transpirational water loss. The dynamic changes in the transcriptome of stomatal guard cells in response to ABA have been investigated in the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana. However, guard cell transcriptomes have not been analyzed in agronomically valuable crops such as a major oilseed crop, rapeseed. In this study, we investigated the dynamics of ABA-regulated transcriptomes in stomatal guard cells of Brassica napus and conducted comparison analysis with the transcriptomes of A. thaliana. We discovered changes in gene expression indicating alterations in a host of physiological processes, including stomatal movement, metabolic reprogramming, and light responses. Our results suggest the existence of both immediate and delayed responses to ABA in Brassica guard cells. Furthermore, the transcription factors and regulatory networks mediating these responses are compared to those identified in Arabidopsis. Our results imply the continuing evolution of ABA responses in Brassica since its divergence from a common ancestor, involving both protein-coding and non-coding nucleotide sequences. Together, our results will provide a basis for developing strategies for molecular manipulation of drought tolerance in crop plants.
Physiological and biochemical responses in a cadmium accumulator of traditional Chinese medicine Ligusticum sinense cv. Chuanxiong under cadmium condition
Authors: Niu Shu-qi , Li Ting , Bao Xiu-wen , Bai Jing , Liu Lin , Liu Si-jing , Qin Wei , Li Yang , Guo Jin-lin
Published: October 2024

Ligusticum sinense cv. Chuanxiong (L. Chuanxiong), one of the widely used traditional Chinese medicines (TCM), is currently facing the problem of excessive cadmium (Cd) content. This problem has significantly affected the quality and safety of L. Chuanxiong and become a vital factor restricting its clinical application and international trade development. Currently, to solve the problem of excessive Cd, it is essential to research the response mechanisms of L. Chuanxiong to Cd stress. However, there are few reports on its physiological and biochemical responses under Cd stress. In this study, we conducted the hydroponic experiment under 25 μM Cd stress, based on the Cd content of the genuine producing areas soil. The results showed that 25 μM Cd stress not only had no significant inhibitory effect on the growth of L. Chuanxiong seedlings but also significantly increased the chlorophyll a content (11.79%) and root activity (51.82%) compared with that of the control, which might be a hormesis effect. Further results showed that the absorption and assimilation of NH4+ increased in seedlings under 25 μM Cd stress, which was associated with high photosynthetic pigments. Here, we initially hypothesized and confirmed that Cd exceedance in the root system of L. Chuanxiong was due to the thickening of the root cell wall, changes in the content of the cell wall components, and chelation of Cd by GSH. There was an increase in cell wall thickness (57.64 %) and a significant increase in cellulose (25.48%) content of roots under 25 μM Cd stress. In addition, L. Chuanxiong reduced oxidative stress caused by 25 μM Cd stress mainly through the GSH/GSSG cycle. Among them, GSH-Px (48.26%) and GR (42.64%) activities were significantly increased, thereby maintaining a high GSH/GSSG ratio. This study preliminarily reveals the response of L. Chuanxiong to Cd stress and the mechanism of Cd enrichment. It provides a theoretical basis for solving the problem of Cd excessive in L. Chuanxiong.

Graphical Abstract

Physiological and biochemical mechanisms of L. Chuanxiong seedlings under Cd stress.
Advances in multifunctional metal-organic framework (MOF)-based nanoplatforms for cancer starvation therapy
Authors: Cai Jinghan , Xu Yan , Liao Fei
Published: October 2024

Cancer remains a significant threat to human health today. Even though starvation therapy and other treatment methods have recently advanced to a new level of rapid development in tumour treatment, their limited therapeutic effectiveness and unexpected side effects prevent them from becoming the first option in clinical treatment. With rapid advancement in nanotechnology, the utilization of nanomaterials in therapeutics offers the potential to address the shortcomings in cancer treatment. Notably, multifunctional metal-organic framework (MOF) has been widely employed in cancer therapy due to their customizable shape, adjustable diameter, high porosity, diverse compositions, large specific surface area, high degree of functionalization and strong biocompatibility. This paper reviews the current progress and success of MOF-based multifunctional nanoplatforms for cancer starvation therapy, as well as the prospects and potential barriers for the application of MOF nanoplatforms in cancer starvation therapy.
On the linear response theory of vortex meandering and its statistical verification in experiments
Authors: Bölle Tobias
Published: October 2024

Meandering designates the main manifestation of unsteady vortex dynamics observed in experiments. This study has the twofold objective to (i) develop a theoretical model describing vortex meandering and (ii) conduct a quantitative and objective evaluation of the model against experimental data. Based on an analogy with Brownian motion, we derive the theoretical model in the framework of linear response theory. Taking the form of a Langevin equation, our model explains meandering as the competition between external excitation by free-stream perturbations, counteracted by stabilising intrinsic vortex dynamics. As such, it contains the previous approaches to explaining the phenomenon as limiting cases, and clearly highlights their shortcomings. The statistical identification of characteristic regularities in experimental data as well as the assessment of their consistency with theoretical models are important problems in physics. For samples obtained from finite-length records of correlated data, these statistical characteristics are not unique and may show spurious behaviour merely induced by the finiteness of the sample. Statistical inference provides a systematic and quantitative methodology to objectively assess the reproducibility of statistical characteristics and to evaluate their consistency with theoretical models. Their systematic application to the analysis of vortex meandering has not been done before and provides statistical evidence for our proposed Brownian-motion-like model. That is, experimental vortex meandering constitutes the manifestation of a stationary Gauss–Markov random process, which implies that the dynamics admits an ergodic probability measure.
Identifying the risk factors associated with food insecurity in the UK veteran population: a nationwide survey
Authors: Johnson Amy , Serra Giuseppe , Tomietto Marco , Kiernan Matthew D.
Published: October 2024

There has been limited focus placed on exploring food insecurity within the UK-ex-Armed Forces population. The present study aims to build on initial work by investigating the prevalence and associated factors of food insecurity within UK veterans and their families and their current health status. 881 veterans (or a family member) who previously served in the Royal Navy and Royal Marines, Army and the Royal Air Force completed an online survey to explore health status, food insecurity and receipt of benefits. In total, 16.9% of survey respondents were part of food-insecure households, with 12% of these also experiencing some element of hunger. Working age, non-officer rank at the time of service discharge, not being married, living in rented accommodation, having at least one medical condition and in receipt of other benefits were significant risk factors associated with food insecurity. Understanding the specific risk factors associated with food insecurity is vital to develop personalised interventions and policies, such as income support programmes and affordable housing initiatives. However, more work is needed to further explore the factors associated with food insecurity, particularly in the long term.
Characteristics of dynamic thickness change across diverse outlet glacier geometries and basal conditions
Authors: Yang Donglai , Poinar Kristin , Nowicki Sophie , Csatho Beata
Published: October 2024

Outlet glaciers in Greenland are undergoing retreat and diffusive thinning in response to external forcings, but the rates and magnitudes of these responses differ from glacier to glacier for unclear reasons. We test how changes in ice overburden pressure and basal lubrication affect diffusive thinning rates and their spatial patterns by conducting numerical experiments over various idealized Greenland-like glacier domains. We find that ~10 km frontal retreat over a decade can produce sustained thinning rates as large as 16 m a−1 due to ice overburden pressure changes, at outlet glaciers with high basal drag (>60 kPa) and lateral resistive stress (>70 kPa). Localized basal lubrication perturbations induce upstream thinning and downstream thickening up to 12 m a−1; the duration of the lubrication forcing generally has a greater effect than its intensity on induced thickness changes. Lastly, episodic grounding line retreats over a rough bed produce a stepped time series of thinning broadly consistent with observations of dynamic elevation change on multiple Greenland glaciers. Our findings highlight the critical role of the total grounding zone – not ice front position – through the resistive stress change in relation to total glacier thinning.
ecolRxC: Ecological inference estimation of R × C tables using latent structure approaches
Authors: Pavía Jose M. , Thomsen Søren Risbjerg
Published: October 2024

Ecological inference is a statistical technique used to infer individual behavior from aggregate data. A particularly relevant instance of ecological inference involves the estimation of the inner cells of a set of R × C related contingency tables when only their aggregate margins are known. This problem spans multiple disciplines, including quantitative history, epidemiology, political science, marketing, and sociology. This paper proposes new models for solving the problem using the latent structure theory, and presents theecolRxCpackage, anRimplementation of this methodology. This article exemplifies, explains, and statistically documents the new extensions and, using real inner cell election data, shows how the new models inecolRxClead to significantly more accurate solutions thanecolandVTR, twoStataroutines suggested within this framework.ecolRxCalso holds its own againstei.MD.bayesandnslphom, the two algorithms currently identified in the literature as the most accurate to solve this problem.ecolRxCrecords accuracies as good as those reported forei.MD.bayesandnslphom. Besides, from a theoretical perspective,ecolRxCstands up for modeling a causal theory of political behavior to build its algorithm. This distinguishes it from other procedures proposed from different frameworks (such asei.MD.bayesandnslphom) which model expected behaviors, instead of modeling how voters make choices based on their underlying preferences asecolRxCdoes.
Unveiling disparities: a non-linear decomposition analysis of the gap in menstrual hygiene material use between adolescent women in Aspirational and the remaining districts of India
Authors: Chakrabarty Mahashweta , Singh Aditya , Let Subhojit , Singh Shivani
Published: October 2024

This study aimed to investigate the factors contributing to the gap in the use of hygienic materials during menstruation to collect blood among adolescent women between Aspirational and the remaining districts of India. The study sample consisted of 114805 adolescent women (20835 women from 112 Aspirational districts and 93970 women from 595 remaining districts) from the National Family Health Survey-5. Fairlie decomposition was used to identify and measure the factors contributing to the gap in the use of hygienic materials between Aspirational and the remaining districts of India. This study determined that the use of hygienic materials during menstruation varied significantly between Aspirational and the remaining districts. While only 37% of adolescent women used hygienic materials in Aspirational districts, almost 52% did so in the remaining districts. Seventy-five per cent of Aspirational districts (84 of 112 districts) reported less than 50% use of hygienic materials, which is lower than the national average and the average of the remaining districts. It was revealed that nearly 90% of the total explained gap between the two groups was accounted for by household wealth, place of residence, exposure to mass media, and education level. Wealth was the main contributor to the gap, explaining about 46% of the difference in hygienic materials use between Aspirational and the remaining districts, followed by the place of residence (18%), exposure to mass media (15%), and education level (11%). Findings suggest that targeted interventions to improve access to hygienic materials among adolescent women in Aspirational districts, particularly those in the northern states of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Chhattisgarh, are necessary. Policy efforts should focus on women from poor households, improving access to education, and expanding mass media exposure in Aspirational districts to reduce the gap in menstrual hygiene practices among adolescent women in India.
Productive performance and milk composition of dairy ewes supplemented with corn silage (Zea mays L.), sunflower (Helianthus annuus) silage and their mixture
Authors: Gonzalez-Ronquillo Manuel , Ghavipanje Navid , Robles-Jimenez Lizbeth E. , Cardoso-Gutierrez Eduardo , Aranda-Aguirre Edgar , Lizarazo Augusto , Garcia Herrera Ricardo A. , Castelán Ortega Octavio A. , Vargas-Bello-Pérez Einar
Published: October 2024

The work reported in the Research Communication investigated in vitro rumen gas kinetics and fermentation profile as well as in vivo performance of lactating ewes fed corn silage (CS), sunflower silage (SFS) and their 50 : 50 mixture (CS-SFS). For the in vivo experiment, nine early-lactation Suffolk × Texel ewes were grouped in a replicated 3 × 3 Latin square design of three 21-d periods. Treatments were based on ad libitum CS, SFS, and CS-SFS supplemented with concentrate at 48 g/kg LW0.75. In vitro results showed that the CS had the highest dry matter degraded substrate and microbial crude protein production followed by CS-SFS. The in vivo data showed that animals fed on CS had higher digestibility of dry matter and organic matter than CS-SFS, while SFS were intermediate. Nitrogen (N) intake, fecal N excretion, and urine N excretion were similar between groups, however, milk N excretion was lower in SFS than CS. Milk yield was higher for CS and CS-SFS than SFS group, however, SFS-fed ewes had higher milk fat content than either CS or CS-SFS (all differences reported here were significant, P < 0.05 or better). Overall, CS-SFS could be used as dietary roughage for dairy ewes without deleterious effects on nutrient intake, N-balance and milk yield whilst potentially offering a more sustainable alternative to CS.
Business continuity, bureaucratic resilience and the limitations of neoliberal survival logics in international organisations
Authors: Holmes Georgina , Newnham Sarah
Published: October 2024

This article contends that investigating relationalities between business continuity management (BCM), staff behaviours, and bureaucratic resilience advances understandings of the survival of international organisations (IOs). Drawing on in-depth interviews, a global staff survey, and a discourse analysis of United Nations (UN) reports and applying a post-colonial feminist theoretical approach foregrounding care ethics to the study of IOs, the article examines how the UN Secretary-General’s Alternative Working Arrangements directive to close physical offices and open ‘virtual offices’ was implemented in the first 18 months of the Covid-19 pandemic. It is contended that BCM is necessary for IO survival, since if the IO bureaucracy is unable to be productive and maintain its spheres of influence during a crisis, it risks losing power and authority. Between March 2020 and August 2021, staff facilitated IO survival organically, from the bottom up, in four ways: demonstrating good performance and productivity; being adaptable and resilient; maintaining personal spheres of influence; and building communities of care within the UN. However, the UN’s neoliberal, technocratic approach to business continuity and bureaucratic resilience-building neglected staff care needs. Consequently, IO survival is predicated on staff performing as exploited gendered and racialised ‘neoliberal subjects’, revealing a chronic structural crisis rooted in the UN bureaucracy’s hierarchical composition and unequal employment regime.