bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative Effectiveness of Liraglutide versus Dulaglutide in Asian Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Dai Jhih-Wei , Lin Yuan , Li Xiu-Wei , Tseng Chin-Ju , Tsai Ming-Lung , Yang Ning-I , Hung Ming-Jui , Chen Tien-Hsing
Published: October 2024

Background & Aims: Given the limited head-to-head comparison of effectiveness between liraglutide and dulaglutide, our study aimed to investigate the clinical effectiveness of dulaglutide versus liraglutide in a real-world setting.
Method: In this new-user design, comparative and retrospective cohort study, patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus with prescription for GLP-1RAs from January 1, 2016 to December 31, 2022 (n = 8,278) were included. Primary outcome was composite cardiovascular outcomes which was composed of cardiovascular death, non-fatal myocardial infarction, and non-fatal ischemic stroke. The composite renal outcome was also interested, including new macroalbuminuria, doubling of serum creatinine, worsening of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and progression to dialysis.
Results: A total of 3,210 subjects receiving liraglutide and 5,068 subjects receiving dulaglutide were identified. In the adjusted cohort by applying inverse probability of treatment weighting, the incidence of composite cardiovascular outcomes was 18.4 and 18.7 events per 1000 person-years in the liraglutide and dulaglutide groups, respectively. The risk of cardiovascular outcomes did not significantly differ between groups (hazard ratio [HR] 0.99, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.85–1.15). Moreover, the risk of composite renal outcomes was also comparable between groups (subdistribution HR 1.05, 95% CI 0.97–1.13).
Conclusion: Liraglutide and dulaglutide demonstrated comparable clinical effectiveness in composite cardiovascular and composite renal outcomes in a real-world setting
Between-and within-socioeconomic groups temporal inequality in the uptake of malaria prevention strategies among pregnant women and under-five children in Ghana
Authors: Okova Denis , Lukwa Akim Tafadzwa , Edusei Marian , Bodzo Paidamoyo , Atta-Obeng Christian , Chiwire Plaxcedes , Hongoro Charles
Published: October 2024

Background
Malaria is one of the leading causes of mortality among pregnant women and children in Africa. Despite efforts to distribute insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) and provide intermittent preventive treatment in pregnancy (IPTp) in Ghana, significant socioeconomic inequalities persist. This study investigates the temporal trends in socioeconomic inequalities related to ITN and IPTp coverage among children and pregnant women in Ghana.
Methods
We utilized data from the Ghana Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) for 2003, 2008, 2014, and 2022. We assessed ITN use by pregnant women and children under five, and IPTp coverage, employing the Erreygers normalized concentration index (ENCI) and Theil index to measure and decompose inequalities by socioeconomic status (SES) and residence.
Results
ITN use among children under five increased from 58.11% in 2003 to 62.86% in 2022, while ITN use among pregnant women showed fluctuations, dropping in 2008 and 2014 but rising to 60% in 2022. IPTp coverage increased steadily from 0.85% in 2003 to 60% in 2022. Overall socioeconomic inequalities in ITN use and IPTp coverage were predominantly driven by within-group rather than between-group inequalities. ITN use was higher among the poorest households, while IPTp coverage showed a pro-rich distribution in recent years.
Conclusion
Despite improvements in malaria prevention uptake, significant inequalities persist in Ghana. Addressing these disparities requires a multipronged approach, including strengthening supply chains, tailoring interventions to specific population needs, and reducing healthcare access barriers. Policies must focus on localized factors and specific barriers faced by disadvantaged groups to achieve equitable health outcomes in malaria prevention.
Clinicopathological characteristics of complicated colorectal cancers: a retrospective analysis over 10 years in two tertiary centers in Egypt
Authors: Torky Radwan A. , RM Farghaly , Hussein Ahmed M. , Abdeltawab Asmaa A.
Published: October 2024

Background
The prognosis for emergency surgery for colorectal cancers (CRCs) and metastatic tumors was reported to be extremely poor. Our objective is to ascertain the clinical characteristics of patients who have been diagnosed with complications and metastases at two tertiary centers in Egypt.
Methods
a comparative retrospective study between complicated and non-complicated CRCs conducted in two tertiary centers in Egypt in 10 years.
Results
a total of 320 patients underwent surgery for CRC, of which 25% underwent emergency surgery (80 cases) and 240 (75%) patients underwent an elective one. There was a higher rate of complicated colon and non-complicated rectal cancer (P = 0.009). There was a significantly higher rate of positive L.Ns, positive LVI and PNI (P = 0.001), (P < 0.001) and (P < 0.001) respectively. In multivariate analysis, only the tumor site (right colon P = 0.010, left colon P = 0.022) as well as the LVI (P = 0.038) remained the most important predicting factors for complication. There was a significantly higher rate of OS in patients with T1 and T2 (P = 0.002), in patients with grade I and II (P = 0.005), node-negative and non-metastatic disease with (P = < 0.001) and (P = < 0.001) respectively.
Conclusion
Right and left colon cancers, along with positive lymphovascular invasion (LVI), are regarded as risk factors for surgical complications and metastases in cases of advanced stages, unfavorable grades, and node-positive tumors, leading to a poor prognosis.
Bedside Endoscopic Ultrasound Guided Gallbladder Drainage in the Intensive Care Unit in Critically Ill Patients
Authors: Thomas Raj Jessica , Chatterjee Arjun , Abdallah Mohamed , Garg Rajat , Singh Amandeep , Chahal Prabhleen
Published: October 2024

Cholecystectomy remains the treatment of choice in average surgical-risk patients with acute cholecystitis. In patients with high perioperative risk, percutaneous transhepatic gallbladder drainage (PT-GBD) and endoscopic ultrasound-guided gallbladder drainage (EUS-GBD) become the next avenues of treatment. However, PT-GBD is contraindicated in large hepatic masses, large-volume ascites, and coagulopathy. Furthermore, some critically ill patients may not be amenable to transportation to the interventional radiology suite for PT-GBD or the endoscopy suite for EUS-GBD. In this case series, we demonstrated that performing EUS-GBD at the bedside in the intensive care unit is both technically feasible and safe for critically ill patients at high risk for other interventions.
Potential drug targets for asthma identified through Mendelian randomization analysis
Authors: Chen Xingxuan , Shang Yu , Shen Danting , Shi Si , wen Zhe , Li Lijuan , Chen Hong
Published: October 2024

Background
The emergence of new molecular targeted drugs marks a breakthrough in asthma treatment, particularly for severe cases. Yet, options for moderate-to-severe asthma treatment remain limited, highlighting the urgent need for novel therapeutic drug targets. In this study, we aimed to identify new treatment targets for asthma using the Mendelian randomization method and large-scale genome-wide association data (GWAS).
Methods
We utilized GWAS data from the UK Biobank (comprising 56,167 patients and 352,255 control subjects) and the FinnGen cohort (including 23,834 patients and 228,085 control subjects). Genetic instruments for 734 plasma proteins and 154 cerebrospinal fluid proteins were derived from recently published GWAS. Bidirectional Mendelian randomization analysis, Steiger filtering, colocalization, and phenotype scanning were employed for reverse causal inference detection, further substantiating the Mendelian randomization results. A protein-protein interaction network was also constructed to reveal potential associations between proteins and asthma medications.
Results
Under Bonferroni significance conditions, Mendelian randomization analysis revealed causal relationships between seven proteins and asthma. In plasma, we observed that an increase of one standard deviation in IL1R1[1.30 (95% CI, 1.20–1.42)], IL7R[1.07 (95% CI, 1.04–1.11)], ECM1[1.03 (95% CI, 1.02–1.05)], and CD200R1[1.18 (95% CI, 1.09–1.27)] were associated with an increased risk of asthma, while an increase in ADAM19 [0.87 (95% CI, 0.82–0.92)] was found to be protective. In the brain, each 10-fold increase in IL-6 sRa [1.29 (95% CI, 1.15–1.45)] was associated with an increased risk of asthma, while an increase in Layilin [0.61 (95% CI, 0.51–0.73)] was found to be protective. None of the seven proteins exhibited a reverse causal relationship. Colocalization analysis indicated that ECM1 (coloc.abf-PPH4 = 0.953), IL-6 sRa (coloc.abf-PPH4 = 0.966), and layilin (coloc.abf-PPH4 = 0.975) shared the same genetic variation as in asthma.
Conclusion
A causal relationship exists between genetically determined protein levels of IL1R1, IL7R, ECM1, CD200R1, ADAM19, IL-6 sRa, and Layilin (LAYN) and asthma. Moreover, the identified proteins may serve as attractive drug targets for asthma, especially ECM1 and Layilin (LAYN). However, further research is required to comprehensively understand the roles of these proteins in the occurrence and progression of asthma.
Prevalence of degenerative disease of the temporomandibular joint in anterior open bite patients with different molar relationships: a retrospective observational study
Authors: Wang Chenxu , Guo Feng , Hu Hengyu , Liu Chenghuan , Lei Lang
Published: October 2024

Objectives: To assess the prevalence of degenerative disease of the temporomandibular joint in anterior open bite patients with different molar relationships.
Methods: 246 anterior open bite adult orthodontic patients were divided into Class I group (n=65), Class II group (n=116) and Class III group (n=65) based on their sagittal molar relationships, meanwhile, 70 normal subjects were selected as control group. The occurrence of degenerative joint disease was detected by cone beam computed tomography, and the prevalence of degenerative joint disease among groups was compared. Mandibular plane angle and the vertical distance between the upper and lower incisors were also measured.
Results: The overall prevalence of degenerative joint disease in anterior open bite patients and control group was 30.28% and 5.00%, respectively. Class II group showed the significantly highest prevalence of degenerative joint disease (50.43%, P＜0.001), highest frequency of bilateral degenerative joint disease (43.95%，P＜0.001) and highest mandibular plane angle. Among the anterior open bite groups, Class III group exhibited the highest vertical distance between the upper and lower incisors (3.35 ±1.86mm, P＜0.05) but the lowest prevalence of degenerative joint disease(10.77%).
Conclusions: For Class II anterior open bite patients, condylar resorption in degenerative diseases of TMJ may be an important cause of malocclusion.
Efficacy and Safety of Avatrombopag in Combination with Standard Immunosuppressive Therapy for Severe Aplastic Anemia
Authors: Li Jianping , Liang Weiru , Fan Huihui , Zhou Kang , Li Yuan , Yang Wenrui , Jing Liping , Zhang Li , Ye Lei , Xiong Youzhen , Peng Guangxin , Yang Yang , Yuan Weiping , Shi Jun , Zhang Fengkui , Zhao Xin
Published: October 2024

Background: Severe aplastic anemia (SAA) is a life-threatening bone marrow failure disease. The addition of eltrombopag to immunosuppressive therapy (IST) improves the response rate and response quality of SAAs, but its hepatotoxicity is concerning. Avatrombopag (AVA), another small-molecule thrombopoietin receptor agonist without hepatotoxicity, has unknown efficacy in SAA treatment.
Methods: This retrospective study compared clinical outcomes of 42 SAA patients treated with IST and AVA as first-line treatment (Group A) to a historical cohort of 84 patients who received IST alone (Group B) using propensity score matching (PSM).
Results: The median age was 31.5 (6.0-67.0) years old in Group A and 26 (16.0-45.0) years old in Group B. At 3 months, Group A showed higher complete response (CR) and overall response (OR) rates than Group B (CR: 19.0% vs. 4.8%, P = 0.024; OR: 54.8% vs. 39.3%, P=0.145). Higher CR and OR rates were also found at 6 months in Group A than in Group B (CR 31.0% vs. 14.3%, P=0.145; OR 71.4% vs. 51.2%, P=0.048). In multivariate analysis of Group A, a shorter interval from disease onset to ATG treatment (≤6 months) (P=0.005) predicted better responses rate at 6 months. Event free survival was also improved in Group A (60.7% vs. 49.6%). AVA was well-tolerated, with no hepatic injury observed during treatment, even in those with pre-existing hepatic impairment.
Conclusion: The addition of AVA to IST improves both the response rate and response quality in SAA patients while ensuring safety.
Central Pontine Myelinolysis in Anorexia Nervosa: Case Report of a Chinese Adolescent
Authors: Yin Gaohan , Zhou Tianhang , Kong Qingmei
Published: October 2024

Background
Central pontine myelinolysis (CPM) is a rare neurologic disorder characterized by symmetric demyelination in the central region of pons. Until recently its prognosis was considered poor if not fatal. CPM may manifest as a severe complication of eating disorders, especially anorexia nervosa (AN), primarily due to a rapid correction of hyponatremia.
Case presentation:
In this report, we presented the case of a 13-year-old girl with a five-month history of AN who exhibited typical CPM brain lesions, confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examination without the context of severe electrolyte imbalances. Surprisingly, despite the patient's critical clinical manifestations in the initial stages, her prognoses of both AN and CPM were relatively optimistic.
Conclusions
We discussed these observations in the light of recent reports on CPM and AN comorbidity. Although the clinical implications of MRI-detected lesions remain uncertain, psychiatrists should be cautious about CPM when refeeding patients with AN. Further studies about the relationship between CPM and AN are imperative.
Preparation of Zr-MOF Catalyst and its application in synthesis of trimethylolethane
Authors: wang xin , Li Cong , Xie Yuheng , Li Jiangxin , Wang Yajuan , Zhang Juan
Published: October 2024

Twelve metal-organic skeleton (MOFs) polymers were catalyzed and screened. Zr-MOF-J was selected as the best catalyst and characterized. We use a variety of analytical techniques to thoroughly characterize the best performing catalysts including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Brunner−Emmet−Teller (BET) measurements, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (13C-NMR) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The characterization results unequivocally demonstrated that the synthesized catalyst was a porous polymer with exceptional heat stability. The catalytic performance of the catalyst was evaluated by synthesis of trimethylolethane from formaldehyde and propionaldehyde. The optimal reaction conditions were as follows: the catalyst amount accounted for 20%（wt%） of propionicaldehydemass, the reaction temperature was maintained at 65 ℃, the reaction time was 2.5 h, the molar ratio of propionaldehyde to formaldehyde was 1:3. Under these optimal conditions, the conversion rate of propionaldehyde was up to 98.34% and the selectivity of trimethylolethane was 86.9%. Notably, the catalytic activity did not significantly diminish even after being reused five times.
Effect of radiotherapy target areas in the prognosis of esophageal cancer in the era of immunotherapy
Authors: Zhang Jie , Bai Han , Zhao Dongmei , Hou Fei , Lu Fei , Xia Yaoxiong , Wang Li
Published: October 2024

Esophageal cancer is one of the most common malignancies. This study aimed to explore the influence of related factors such as immunotherapy, altitude level, radiotherapy target volume, and radiotherapy dose on the prognosis of patients with locally advanced and advanced esophageal cancer in the plateau region. We retrospectively collected data related to all patients with locally advanced and advanced esophageal cancer who completed definitive radiotherapy at Yunnan Cancer Hospital from January 2017 to January 2023. A total of 274 patients were included, with a median follow-up time of 54.8 months. The median OS and PFS were 15.0 months and 11.0 months, respectively. Immunotherapy significantly improved patient survival, especially for patients receiving immunotherapy after radiotherapy. Adjuvant therapy (including chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, P = 0.004) and GTV (P = 0.015) were independent predictors of OS, while body mass index (BMI, P = 0.037) was independent predictors of PFS. Patients with smaller target areas of PTV, CTV, GTV, GTVnd, and NEW had a better prognosis. The prognosis of recent efficacy is better than that of ineffective. Patients with disease progression within 3 months after radiotherapy have a worse prognosis. The altitude of the residence and the radiotherapy dose had no noticeable effect on the prognosis of patients with esophageal cancer. The lesion location, GTV, and simultaneous integrated boost (SIB) radiotherapy affected the occurrence of esophageal fistula.
BK Virus Nephropathy in a Native Kidney of a Lung Transplant Patient
Authors: Galloway Mercedes , Sousou John , Zeng Xu , Awad Alaa , Heilig Charles
Published: October 2024

Background: BK virus nephropathy (BKVN) in native kidneys following lung transplantation is an exceptionally rare occurrence. This case report highlights a unique instance where BKVN developed in a patient’s native kidney post-lung transplantation, emphasizing its rarity and the importance of considering BKVN in differential diagnoses for patients presenting with acute kidney injury (AKI) after such transplants.
Case Presentation: A patient who had undergone bilateral lung transplantation three years prior presented with worsening creatinine levels following an angiogram. The patient’s history included no exposure to toxic medications, contrast, or other known triggers for kidney disease. The worsening renal function was initially investigated through an angiogram, which was followed by the onset of hematuria and a progressive rise in creatinine levels. To determine the cause of the acute kidney injury, a kidney biopsy was performed. The biopsy of the left kidney revealed polyoma nephropathy. Confirmatory tests, including positive staining for Simian virus 40 (SV40), confirmed the diagnosis of BK virus nephropathy in the patient’s native kidney.
Conclusion: The occurrence of BK virus nephropathy in the native kidney following lung transplantation is a rare phenomenon. This case underscores the necessity of considering BK virus nephropathy in the differential diagnosis of acute kidney injury in patients with a history of lung transplantation. Early recognition and diagnosis are crucial for appropriate management and potential modification of immunosuppressive therapy to prevent further kidney damage.
Second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic not as deadly as speculated: Results from a large retrospective multicentric study of 26,405 patients in Mumbai, India
Authors: Ingawale Sushrut , Sonawale Archana , Rao Shirish , Sonawale Kshitij , Bhondve Amit , Andrade Neelam , Tagore Mohana , Karpe Sonal , Prasad Pooja , Yadav Sushant
Published: October 2024

This retrospective multicenter study compared the demographic and clinical characteristics of hospitalized COVID-19 patients across two waves at select public hospitals in Mumbai. A total of 26,405 laboratory-confirmed cases were included, excluding patients transferred to other centers. Data analysis involved chi-square tests and multivariate binomial logistic regression. Both waves showed a male preponderance (64% in wave 1, 63% in wave 2, p=0.131) and a majority of patients over 35 years (77% in wave 1, 76% in wave 2, p=0.273). Despite a higher oxygen requirement in wave 2 (23% vs. 36%, p=0.001), the fatality rate was lower (13% vs. 9%, p=0.001). Symptom burden and comorbidities were significantly lower in wave 2. Kidney involvement (p=0.001) was the strongest predictor of oxygen requirement and death in wave 1, whereas age over 55 (p=0.001) was the most consistent predictor across both waves. Hypertension and/or diabetes (p=0.001) were associated with increased oxygen requirement but not death in both waves. In conclusion, while the age and gender distribution remained similar across both waves, wave 2 had a lower fatality rate and comorbidity burden despite a higher oxygen demand. The lower fatality rate in wave 2 stands out as a striking result in this large population study, contrary to earlier speculations. Age over 55 was a consistent predictor of both oxygen requirement and mortality, while hypertension and diabetes were only predictors of oxygen need.
Guiding treatment and clinical management of patients with CNS lymphomas by minimal-invasive detection of circulating tumor DNA in cerebrospinal fluid
Authors: Scherer Florian , Weinschenk Samuel , Philipp Ulrike , Kuehn Julia , Mueller Katharina , Fauser Josia , Boeckle David , Gebhard Inga , Hinz Marta , Neidert Nicolas , Bleul Sabine , Lauer Eliza , Mutter Jurik , Alig Stefan , Kurtz David , Finke Jürgen , Marks Reinhard , Diehn Maximilian , Alizadeh Ash , Reinacher Peter , Wehrle Julius , Keller Ulrich , Wolf Dominik , Kocher Florian , Chapuy Bjoern , Beck Jürgen , Prinz Marco , von Baumgarten Louisa , Schorb Elisabeth , Duyster Justus
Published: October 2024

Various clinical scenarios preclude or delay invasive stereotactic biopsies and subsequent histopathological assessment for the diagnosis of central nervous system lymphoma (CNSL), necessitating innovative minimal-invasive strategies. We designed a digital droplet PCR (ddPCR) assay for minimal-invasive identification of CNSL in clinical practice by detecting MYD88 L265P mutations in circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). After assay approval by the national accreditation authority, this laboratory-developed test (LDT) was first independently validated in a cohort of 128 patients with confirmed malignant or inflammatory/infectious brain diseases, revealing a sensitivity of 67% and specificity of 100% for correct CNSL diagnosis. Following implementation in a clinical laboratory environment, the LDT was applied to 205 CSF samples from 182 independent patients, reporting results to treating physicians with a median turnaround time of 5 days. The MYD88 L265P mutation was detected in 33% of CSF specimens, obviating the need for invasive surgical biopsies in 37% of patients and guiding lymphoma-specific treatment in 48% of evaluable cases. 94% of patients undergoing CNS-directed treatment based on CSF-ctDNA profiling objectively responded to therapies. Collectively, our results demonstrate that minimal-invasive identification of CNSL by ctDNA genotyping in CSF can effectively guide clinical management and has practice-changing impact for a substantial subset of patients with unknown CNS lesions.
Nitrogen removal affect lipid production and expression levels of accD gene through cultivation of Chlorella in synthetic wastewater
Authors: Abbasiniasar Mahdi , Abdollahi Parisa , Shayegan Jalal , Weisany Weria
Published: October 2024

Microalgae are considered to be a potential feedstock for biodiesel production. The study resulted in developing an integrated lipid enhancement strategy by culturing C-hlorella vulgaris in wastewater containing nitrogen and phosphorus. An ideal experimental design was carried out based on central composite design (CCD) with response surface methodology (RSM). This RSM was used to calculate the effects of nitrogen and phosphorus concentration, and their interaction with nitrogen removal and accD gene expression corresponding to lipid synthetize. ACCase with four subunits is the key enzyme for fatty acid synthesis which expression of the beta subunit (accD) synthesized in the chloroplast is decisive to the levels of heteromeric ACCase. Under this experimental design there were 13 different runs with various concentrations of nitrogen and phosphorus. Based on the analysis of variance (ANOVA), the nitrogen removal and gene expression model proved to be of very good fit with a very low probability value (< 0.0001). Optimum nitrogen removal (50.5%) and accD gene expression (8.5-fold) occurred at low nitrogen concentration (100 mg/L) and maximum phosphorus concentration (100 mg/L).
Narrow gap welding of titanium alloy samples with variable thickness and controlled magnetic field
Authors: Akhonin S. , Bilous V. , Selin R. , Zhang Y. , Qin B. , Wang H.
Published: October 2024

Currently, narrow gap welding is considered the most effective method of arc welding of various metals of medium and large thickness. The main advantages of narrow gap welding are a significant reduction in the required amount of deposited metal (compared to cutting edges of a conventional shape) and, consequently, the consumption of filler wire, a reduction in the width of the weld and HAZ, as well as welding deformations. Reducing the amount of weld metal required to form a welded joint is especially important when welding titanium. To prevent lack of fusion, redistribution of arc heat is necessary. The use of the controlled magnetic field during narrow gap TIG welding allows to control the movement of the welding arc in narrow gap welding conditions. In this work, narrow gap welding will be carried out on the samples with variable thickness in the range of 45…60 mm. The work demonstrates, how the different thickness at the start and at the finish of welded detail impacts welding modes and heat source parameters. Results of investigations of the macrostructure of the welded joints are given.
Reference-less decomposition of highly multimode fibers using a physics-driven neural network
Authors: Zhang Qian , Sui Yuan , Rothe Stefan , Koukourakis Nektarios , Czarske Juergen
Published: October 2024

Multimode fibers (MMFs) play an increasing role in the optical communication field, as well as in ultra-thin imaging systems and fiber lasers. The characterization of light propagation properties through active and passive MMFs attracts high interest as many linear and nonlinear optical phenomena fundamentally depend on the interplay of many different spatial modes. Access to the exact modal amplitude and phase weights, namely mode decomposition (MD), helps to describe the present state and brings a better understanding of physical effects, driving further technological advancements on MMF-based telecommunication, endoscopy, or amplifiers.
Here we show that using an untrained neural network, which assumes a simple physical model as a prior, we achieve MD with more than 98 % accuracy with up to 5,796 spatial modes. For the first time, we demonstrate that a deep learning-based MD method can work on a 1-km-long MMF for communication. We present our network framework and results using synthetic data and experimental data measured on passive MMFs as well as on an MMF amplifier. This method holds great promise for applications in fiber lasers, endoscopic metrology, and reference-free calibration techniques in fiber-based classical communication and single-photon quantum key distribution.
The use of semantic information in point-of-interest geospatial data to forecast and generate high precision maps of tourism carbon emissions
Authors: Li Ying , Hao Shizhuan , Zou Tongqian
Published: October 2024

The issue of carbon emissions from tourism is a matter of urgent concern. The traditional methods of measuring carbon emissions from tourism, mainly bottom-up and top-down methods, have major limitations, and are poorly backward compatible and analyzable. POI (Point-of-interest) data with fine-grained categorization offers the possibility of downscaling tourism carbon emissions. In this paper, a 2km×2km map of tourism carbon emissions is generated using six types of tourism-related POI data, and the characteristics of the distribution of tourism carbon emissions in Chinese provinces and cities are discussed from the perspective of spatial distribution. This study confirms the feasibility of POI data in measuring tourism carbon emissions, characterizes the distribution of tourism carbon emissions in China and analyzes the distribution patterns of tourism carbon emissions within different cities, and identifies the contributing sources of tourism carbon emissions, which are all helpful for monitoring tourism carbon emissions and policy formulation. A variety of spatial analysis tools are used to support the conclusions of the study.
Phenology of Bobgunnia madagascariensis (DESV.) J. H. Kirkbr. & Wiersema and Euphorbia sepium N.E. Br. in relation to climatic factors in the Sudano-Guinean zone of Benin
Authors: Imorou Lucien , Dossavi Dayou Ephreme , Kakpo Lucrain , Bello Daouda O. , Adoukonou-Sagbadja Hubert , Ahanchédé Adam , Ahoton Léonard Essèhou
Published: October 2024

Bobgunnia madagascariensis and Euphorbia sepium are two galactogenic species used for livestock farming in Benin. However, there is a few studies on these two species, especially about their characterization and phenology. Knowing plant phenology provides a useful understanding of their autoecology and contributes to conservation and management strategies. The study aimed to describe in relation to climatic factors the different phenological stages of B. madagascariensis and E. sepium in the Sudano-Guinean zone of Benin. Trees spaced at least 13 m apart were chosen randomly and ten individuals of each species were identified and monitored. The observations were made on the phenological stages of both species and were carried out every 10 days during two years in the municipality of Nikki located in Sudano-Guinean zone of Benin. The results shown a single phenological stage (leafing) on E. sepium, characterized by alternating leaf emergence from March to October and leaf fall between November and February. However, three phenological stages were observed (leafing, flowering and fruiting) on B. madagascariensis. Leafing occurred from March to November, flowering from May to August and fruiting from July to February. Peak flowering and fruiting were observed in May-June and August-September, respectively. Leafing of both species was positively and significantly correlated with rainfall. Minimum temperature was positively and significantly correlated (r = 0.61) with flowering on B. madagascariensis. However, fruiting in the same species was negatively correlated (r = -0.89) with maximum temperature. This study provides important information for a better valorization and in situ conservation of the two species in Benin.
Predicting earthquake-induced wavefield and stress dynamics in high-alpine mountains using full waveform modeling
Authors: Limberger Fabian , Rümpker Georg , Kruse Jan Philipp , Duretz Thibault
Published: October 2024

This study investigates earthquake-induced wave dynamics at mountain summits, particularly at the Matterhorn (Switzerland) and Tre Cime di Lavaredo (Italy). Full wavefield modeling is utilized to simulate the induced resonant oscillations and amplification of seismic signals at the summits compared to adjacent valleys. The simulated amplification (up to 10 times) in the summit depends on the characteristics of motion direction, topography, and presence of permafrost. Major resonance modes are identified at Matterhorn at frequencies of 0.4 Hz and 1.4 Hz. Higher resonance frequencies above 2 Hz are obtained at the smaller rock formation Tre Cime di Lavaredo, indicating mountain-specific resonances. We demonstrate that the presence of a permafrost body inside the mountain tends to mitigate seismic amplification by up to 30%. However, this effect is dependent on the amount of permafrost and the wavelength of the seismic waves. Locations of potential slope instabilities on the mountain’s surface are identified based on the dynamic stress changes during the simulated earthquake. We find that locations of stress amplification are mainly at the mountain flanks and are influenced by azimuthal characteristics of the incoming wave. The approach and findings presented in our study have the potential to improve hazard assessments for earthquake-induced slope instabilities at mountains.
Effect of separation characteristics on cutting force and surface quality in ultrasonic elliptical vibration cutting of Ti-6Al-4V
Authors: Ling Zhiwen , Wang Dazhong , Wu Shujing , Pan Zili , Zhang Pengli , Yao Guangyong , Takao Akiyama
Published: October 2024

Titanium alloys are widely used in aerospace, automotive, and medical industries due to their excellent material properties such as high strength-to-weight ratio, excellent corrosion resistance, and good biocompatibility. In this study, a series of ultrasonic elliptical vibration cutting (UEVC) simulations were carried out based on the experimentally verified finite element model, and different cutting speed ratios k were formed by changing the parameters such as frequency and cutting speed, so as to explore the influence of UEVC separation characteristics under different k on the cutting force and surface morphology of Ti-6Al-4V during the cutting process. The results show that compared with CM, the average cutting force of UEVC is reduced by 66% and 5% at k = 0.2 and k = 1.4, respectively, and the average cutting force reduction effect of UEVC decreases with the increase of k. At k < 0.8, the reduction rate of UEVC cutting force is almost the same as that of the workpiece, and the complete separation of the tool from the workpiece is the main factor for the reduction of the average cutting force. At k > 0.8, the separation of the tool from the workpiece basically disappears, and the reduction effect of UEVC cutting force is reduced from 28–5%. The reduction in cutting forces is mainly due to the fact that the UEVC still has separation characteristics in the direction of the depth of cut. The surface quality of UEVC processing will deteriorate with the increase of k at k < 1, and the surface quality of UEVC processing will no longer be affected by k at k ≥ 1. Under the condition that k remains constant, the average surface roughness Ra increases with the increase of both f, regardless of whether it is by changing f or by changing the amplitude, and the increasing trend is almost the same. The main difference is that by changing f, the compressive stress of the cutting surface will decrease as f increases; By varying the amplitude, the compressive stress on the cutting surface increases as the amplitude increases.
Digital and Traditional Executive Function Assessment Tools (EFATs) for Healthy Adults: A Systematic Review of Psychometric Properties
Authors: Teles Telesmagno Neves , de Souza Jonatha Berguer , de Almeida Rosa Maria Martins
Published: October 2024

Objective:To examine the available data on executive function assessment tools (EFATs) for healthy adults with respect to the following: assessed constructs; reliability; validity; and other psychometric properties. This review also seeks to pinpoint the most employed EFATs in research, those adapted for the Brazilian population, and those suitable for online administration.Methods:This review adheres to the Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Searches were conducted across the PsycNet, PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and VHS databasesand relevant grayliterature. The primary search descriptors were executive functions, neuropsychological assessment, executive function assessment, healthy adults, and psychometric properties. Risk-of-bias assessment was performed for all reviewed studies.Results:This review encompasses 29 studies. Thirteen studies introduced novel EFATs with promising psychometrics, whereas16 evaluated preexisting EFATs. Three studies adapted tools into Brazilian Portuguese. The most targeted constructs were inhibition, working memory, and cognitive flexibility. Additionally, processing speed, attentional control, verbal fluency, planning, episodic memory, and psychomotor abilities were also addressed. The most employed tools were the Stroop test, the digit span test, and the trail-making test. Most studies focused on digital tools, but only four had versions adapted to Brazilian Portuguese.Conclusion:The findings revealed that the currently available EFATs are strongly based on the theory that EFs are composed ofthree primary components. Notably, online tools have emerged as a significant area of interest in neuropsychological research, as numerous studies are delving into online EF batteries and serious games for EF assessment.Systematic review registration: This review was previously registered on the Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO; CRD42023459513).
Research on tunable single- and dual-wavelength Nd:YLF lasers on 4F3/2→4I13/2 transition
Authors: Chu Chu , Wang Shang , Li Changli , Hu Zonghua , Du Zhenhua
Published: October 2024

A diode-pumped tunable continuous wave (CW) Nd:YLF laser on 4F3/2 →4I13/2 transition is demonstrated for the first time. Four (1314, 1321, 1364 and 1371) in π-polarization and three (1314, 1326 and 1371 nm) in σ-polarization single-wavelength lasers were realized in two directions with a trigonal prism, respectively. At an incident pump power of 20 W, a maximum tuning output power of 7.3 W at 1314 nm in σ-polarization was obtained with the slope efficiency of 39.4%. Additionally, three pairs (1314 & 1321 nm, 1364 & 1371 nm, 1321 & 1364 nm in π-polarization) and two pairs (1314 & 1326 nm, 1314 & 1371 nm in σ-polarization) of dual-wavelength lasers were achieved in two directions by rotating an intracavity Lyot filter (LF), respectively. Furthermore, the output power ratio of the dual-wavelength lasers could be adjusted with two intracavity LFs, and the total output power at 1314 and 1321 nm in π-polarization was up to 6.4 W with 1:1 output power ratio.
Chaos-Enhanced Manganese Electrolysis: Nodule Suppression and Improved Efficiency using Controllable Chaotic Electrical Signals
Authors: Yang Jie , Li Chunbiao , Zhang Qian , Wu Zhihao , Zhang Xin , Liu Peiqiao , Liu Zuohua , Tao Changyuan , Zheng Guocan , Yang Yong , Wei Hanke
Published: October 2024

The control and industrial application of chaotic systems is a major obstacle limiting the diffusion of chaos theory. In this study, we proposed a new chaotic system, which possessed the amplitude control, multi-waveform output, and two-dimensional offset boosting functions. In addition, the application of chaotic circuits in manganese metal electrolysis system can replace conventional direct current (DC). It has been shown that the use of time-varying electricity facilitates the suppression of electrochemical oscillations, and inhibits the growth of spherical manganese nodules. An examination of current efficiency for different oscillations (period 1, period 2, chaos-a and chaos-b) and various current amplitudes has established that chaos-a electrical signals are most suitable for inhibiting the growth of manganese nodules. The Mn nodule area ratios can be reduced by 38% with a 5.83% increase in current efficiency, representing an energy consumption saving of 0.58 kWh/kg. This interdisciplinary approach holds promise for advancing the study of nonlinear dynamic behavior in electrochemical reaction processes and addressing critical challenges in various fields, such as energy dissipation, quality improvement of electrodeposited products, and regulation of by-product properties.
Temperature and Flow Velocity Dependency of Biological Screen- Slot Clogging in Injection Wells
Authors: Okihara Shun , Sakata Yoshitaka , Nagano Katsunori , Sato Hideki
Published: October 2024

Biological clogging in injection wells for Groundwater Heat Pump (GWHP) systems presents a significant operational challenge. The initial stage of clogging involves bacterial fouling attaching to the screen slots of well pipes. However, the relationship between fouling and horizontal groundwater flow through the slots has not been thoroughly investigated. This study conducted a tank experiment by inserting two slotted steel plates into an acrylic tank. Untreated groundwater from the bottom was supplied and groundwater with adjusted temperature and dissolved oxygen from the top were introduced. The mass increase of iron-oxidation biofouling on the slotted steel plates was measured under varying conditions of injection water temperature and flow velocity through the slots. Results showed that higher flow rates and elevated injection water temperatures increased biofouling mass. Specifically, the mass increased by up to 1.6 times due to differences in flow rate and by up to 2.7 times due to differences in injection temperature. These results indicate that iron-oxidizing bacteria are activated by rising injection temperatures, as corroborated by previous studies, and that faster flow rates provide a greater supply of substrates in the groundwater. Finally, the relationship between biofouling mass and injection temperatures was analyzed using an Arrhenius plot. This analysis yielded apparent activation energy values of 62.6 kJ/mol at a flow rate of 1 m/d and 54.5 kJ/mol at a flow rate of 0.1 m/d, with respective determination coefficients of 0.94 and 0.95.
Visualization of Multi-hazard Interactions in Bangladesh Through Analyzing Natural, Anthropogenic, and Technological Hazards
Authors: Easha Rukaiya Islam , Mitu Momtahina , Haque Hafiz Ashraful
Published: October 2024

Bangladesh is a country that faces multiple hazards throughout the year. Those hazards can interact with each other and create complex impacts on the population, infrastructure, and environment. Though there are many discussions about independent hazards around the globe, dependence or interaction among hazards is a new concept worldwide. The purpose of this study is to make an easy comprehension of the interactions among the multiple hazards occurring in Bangladesh. This is accomplished by suggesting the distinctions between single-hazard, multi-layer single-hazard, and multi-hazard approaches which incorporate these types of interactions. This implication means that if the interactions among significant natural and man-made hazards are ignored this may pervert the purpose of management, make people more vulnerable to other hazards that are relevant to a certain location, or result in an underestimation of the risk of disaster. According to the relevant elements of a multi-hazard scenario in Bangladesh, definitions and examples of three categories—natural hazards, anthropogenic processes, and technological hazards/disasters—are provided in this paper. Based on the available literature, three categories of interaction relationships (triggering relationship, increased probability relationship, and catalysis/impedance relationship) are outlined here in detail. We tried to evaluate the interactions among the previous hazards occurring in Bangladesh by analyzing case studies using hazard interaction matrices to visualize those interactions. Furthermore, this study performs the spatial overlap and temporal likelihood analysis of past hazards in Bangladesh through the application of Overlap Likelihood Factors (OLF). The findings demonstrate that flooding possesses the highest total overall likelihood factor (OLF) among triggered natural hazards, establishing it as the most prevalent secondary hazard resulting from primary hazards, along with landslides, riverbank erosion, soil salination, and other hazards. Similarly, fire exhibits the highest Total Overlap-Likelihood Factor (OLFT) among technological hazards, establishing it as the most prevalent secondary hazard. the other hazards like hazardous materials, pollution, industrial explosions, and so on have respectively lower OLFTvalues than fire meaning fewer interacting hazards in Bangladesh. This paper concludes by describing why understanding multi-hazard interactions is needed to contribute to the existing knowledge and practice of multi-hazard risk management in Bangladesh.
Deep learning reveals shifting precipitation patterns on the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau (1980-2020) linked to Southwest Asian monsoon
Authors: wang Junbang
Published: October 2024

High precision precipitation estimation with high temporal and spatial resolution is essential for depicting the hydrological process in ecological and environmental researches. Various spatial interpolation algorithms were developed but large uncertainties were found for the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau (QTP), where meteorological stations are sparsely located over its complex topography. This study developed an Attention-Gated Convolutional Neural Network (A-GCN) algorithm to produce more accurate precipitation spatial interpolation. The spatiotemporal changes were explored in the A-GCN-based precipitation in 1980 to 2020 and its underlying mechanism was analyzed in the view of Asia monsoon. The results showed the A-GCN algorithm, through local connectivity and local region weight sharing in convolutional neural networks, enable better focus on local region features, providing good performance by the comparing with independent observations or the available precipitation datasets. The spatial transition was found in the precipitation interannual trend from a decreasing north and increasing south to an increasing north and decreasing south around the year 2000. The transition could be attributed to the dipole precipitation pattern on a global scale and teleconnection with the Southwest Asia Monsoon enhancing in the early period then weakening since 2005. This study provides a state-of-the-art methodological framework for the spatial interpolation for geographic variable for regions with sparse observations. And precipitation changes would profoundly influence ecological and environment and should be paid more attentions.
Analyzing Key Factors Influencing Viral Marketing Success in Small and Medium Enterprises: A Case Study of Industrial Parks in Nazarabad and Eshtehard, Tehran
Authors: Ramyar Fatemeh
Published: October 2024

With the advent of the Internet, a significant revolution has emerged in the field of marketing. Particularly in the fast-paced environment of modern life, companies provide their needs by spreading their products through the Internet. Unfortunately, in many cases in Iran, imported products, ranging from goods and services to marketing techniques, are not localized and as a result, they are used regardless of the prevailing conditions of the environment or the local market. Viral Marketing is one such technique, representing a modern form of word-of-mouth marketing. This method is not a standalone strategy, but part of a company’s overall marketing effort. The primary purpose of viral marketing is to create brand awareness and enhance product recognition. In order to achieve this, viral marketing techniques are employed to stimulate word-of-mouth promotion across social networks. Given the extensive reach of viral marketing, identifying the success factors behind its use becomes crucial. In this study, the internal and external factors contributing to the success of viral marketing have been analyzed, with a focus on small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The statistical population for this research consists of two groups: managers and sales experts in small and medium enterprises from the industrial parks of Eshtehard and Nazarabad in Tehran province. The sample size includes 30 individuals from each group, making a total of 60 people. The research utilized ratio tests, Friedman tests, and analysis of variance (ANOVA) to assess the data. The results of the study highlighted that internal factors such as management features, human resources, marketing, customer communication, and brand, as well as external factors including technological, economic, and environmental considerations, significantly affect the success of viral marketing.