bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Examining The Association of Violence at Multiple Ecological Levels and Child Mental Health Outcomes in Iraq: Mapping Where Are the Most Vulnerable.
Authors: Al Juboori Ruaa
Published: December 2023

Abstract: Few studies have been conducted in Iraq regarding the association of violence at multiple ecological levels and child mental health outcomes. Therefore, the study objectives were 1) to conduct a nationwide analysis to explore violence at multiple socio-ecological levels and children's mental health outcomes, and 2) to identify the most vulnerable children according to the spatial distribution of Iraqi governorates. This cross-sectional study used the 2018 Iraq Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS 6), which included 12,358 caregivers who provided complete information regarding their parenting and disciplinary practices regarding their children between the ages of 5 and 14. Logistic regression was employed to examine the factors associated with children’s depression and anxiety. This study showed that 22% of children had depression, while 38% experienced anxiety. Notably, children residing in Iraq's South/Central regions, specifically in areas like Nainawa, Najaf, and Basrah, exhibited notably higher anxiety and depression. The research also showed that living in unsafe neighborhoods, women's acceptance of domestic violence, and the use of severe physical punishment as corporal discipline all contributed to the development of anxiety and depression. This study addresses the scarcity of information on children's mental health outcomes in Iraq at national and governorate levels, emphasizing the need for urgent national-level policy discussions to achieve key Sustainable Development Goals related to ending all forms of violence against children by 2030.
HPLC-MS/MS Analysis for Sphingosine 1-Phosphate After the Dephosphorylation by Hydrogen Fluoride
Authors: Kim Hee-Jung , Jung Seo-Hyeon , Gulyamov Shokhid , Lee Hyun-Gy , Boyjigitov Oybek , Lee Yong-Moon
Published: December 2023

Sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) is a signaling lipid molecule involved in various cellular processes. It is important to develop a quantitative method for S1P to determine endogenous levels and to investigate its functions. Especially since S1P is a tiny lipid component of most biological samples, highly sensitive analysis by LC-MS/MS is required. The main challenge in S1P analysis by chromatography is peak broadening due to the presence of a polar phosphate and zwitterion formation in S1P. In this study, we used hydrogen fluoride (HF) to efficiently remove a phosphate and then analyzed the surrogate, sphingosine, as a sharp peak by LC-ESI-MS/MS. We optimized the dephosphorylation reaction in terms of reaction time, temperature, and HF concentration. Multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) for dephosphorylated form of S1P and C17-S1P as internal standard at m/z transition 300.4>282.4 (quantification ion), 300.4>262.4 (qualification ion), 286.3>268.2 (internal standard). This method was validated by essential parameters such as specificity, linearity, range, LOQ, LOD, accuracy, precision, and repeatability. To confirm this new method, we quantified S1P levels in various serum products (100.02 ~ 284.38 nM). To apply the method in vivo, we analyzed S1P in plasma and kidney tissues obtained from a chronic kidney disease (CKD) mouse model. S1P levels were increased only in CKD kidney tissue but not in plasma. In conclusion, by applying the dephosphorylation step with HF, we established a new sensitive LC-MS/MS quantitative method for S1P that can be applied to biological samples.
Molecular Detection, Characterization, and Temperature-Dependence of Wolbachia Infections in Field Populations of Aedes albopictus (Diptera: Culicidae) Mosquitoes in Greece
Authors: Misailidis Michail , Kotsiou Nikolaos , Moulistanos Aristotelis , Gewehr Sandra , Augustinos Antonios A. , Mourelatos Spiros , Papakostas Spiros , Drosopoulou Elena
Published: December 2023

We investigated the prevalence and genetic diversity of Wolbachia pipientis strains in Aedes albopictus populations in Greece. Using a combination of PCR and Sanger sequencing techniques, we genotyped Wolbachia strains in 105 mosquitoes collected across eight different prefectures in 2021. We found a high prevalence of Wolbachia in both male (90%) and female (97%) mosquitoes. Among the infected samples, 84% had double infections with both wAlbA and wAlbB strains, while 16% had infections with only wAlbB. Our comparison of the Multi-Locus Sequence Typing (MLST) profile, employing gatB-coxA-hcpA-ftsZ-fbpA genotyping, revealed a single MLST profile for each wAlbA and wAlbB strain in Greek populations. The same MLST profiles were also reported in populations from China, Russia, and Argentina, suggesting low levels of global diversity in wAlbA and wAlbB strains. Furthermore, our results indicated a significant association between temperature and the prevalence of single infections (P = 6.498E-07), with higher temperatures correlating with an increased likelihood of single infections. Although male-bias showed a tendency towards single infections, the effect was marginally non-significant (P = 0.053). These results were confirmed using a bootstrap-with-replacement analysis approach. Overall, our findings offer novel insights into the distribution and species diversity of Wolbachia strains in Greek Ae. albopictus populations, emphasizing the importance of understanding the short-term plastic and adaptive responses of these organisms to environmental stressors and rapid climate change.
Predicting Team Well-Being Through Face Video Analysis With AI
Authors: Mueller Moritz , Dupuis Ambre , Zeulner Tobias , Vazquez Ignacio , Hagerer Johann , Gloor Peter A
Published: December 2023

Well-being is one of the pillars of positive psychology, which is known to have positive effects not only on the personal and professional lives of individuals, but also on teams and organizations. Understanding and promoting individual well-being is essential for staff health and long-term success, but current tools for assessing subjective well-being rely on time-consuming surveys and questionnaires, which limit the possibility of providing the real-time feedback needed to raise awareness and change individual behavior. This paper proposes a framework for understanding the process of non-verbal communication in teamwork, using video data to identify significant predictors of individual well-being in teamwork. It relies on video acquisition technologies and state-of-the-art artificial intelligence tools to extract individual, relative, and environmental characteristics from panoramic video. Statistical analysis is applied to each time series, leading to the generation of a dataset of 125 features, which are then linked to PERMA (Positive Emotion, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, and Accomplishments) surveys developed in the context of positive psychology. Each pillar of the PERMA model is evaluated as a regression or classification problem using machine learning algorithms. Our approach was applied to a case study, where 80 students collaborated in 20 teams for a week on a team task in a face-to-face setting. This enabled us to formulate several hypotheses identifying factors influencing individual well-being in teamwork. These promising results point to interesting avenues for research, for instance fusing different media for the analysis of individual well-being in teamwork.
Design Flaws Unveiled: The Risk of Autoimmunity from Defective RNA Reading Frames in Pfizer's ModRNA COVID-19 Vaccine
Authors: Palacios- Castrillo Ronald
Published: December 2023

Recently, Mulroney,et.al., demonstrated that Pfizer’s ModRNA Covid vaccine, but not AstraZeneca Covid vaccine, produce aberrant foreign proteins in vivo due to reading frame shift in ribosomes. This phenomenon could elucidate the notable surge in autoimmune diseases following the administration of ModRNA vaccines compared to Influenza vaccines between 2020 and 2023, as found in the VAERS database. These findings bear significant implications for the future application of mRNA technology, emphasizing the necessity of modifying the design of the mRNA sequence to mitigate these defects. Remarkably, Mulroney and collaborators achieved a reduction in frame shift proteins by introducing additional edits to the mRNA sequences. This adjustment is pivotal for rectifying the flawed design of the ModRNA employed by Pfizer. In light of these findings, many advocate for the immediate recall and further investigation of these products. The notion of a "future mRNA-based therapy" should be postponed indefinitely.
Sarah’s גָּרֵשׁ (Gāreš) and Abraham’s שַׁלְּחֶ (Šellach) of Hagar: Expulsion or Apostolic Mission?
Authors: Teke Metin
Published: December 2023

Abraham’s sending forth of Hagar and Ishmael in Gen 21:14 has generally been viewed as an expulsion. Popularly it is held that the primary, if not sole, purpose behind this act was to prevent Ishmael from interfering with Isaac’s inheritance. Interpreting, however, Sarah’s גָּרֵשׁ (gāreš) demand and Abraham’s שַׁלְּחֶ (šellach) of Hagar through the lens of the narratives of Israel, Jesus, and Adam opens the passage to a new dynamic, one in which Hagar has been sent on a mission to establish a colony as an extension of their faith-based activity. An examination of the LXX and Josephus’ Antiquities of the Jews supports this view. Finally, an analysis of Abraham’s rule and motivations enables a mission objective behind Hagar and Ishmael’s being “sent forth” quite plausible. These approaches to the biblical story bring into focus a picture that is different from the standard interpretation where there are multiple objectives of Hagar and Ishmael’s being sent into the wilderness primary among them being expanding Abraham and Sarah’s evangelical mission.
A Comprehensive Strategy for Stepwise Design of a Lab Prototype for the Removal of Emerging Contaminants in Water Using Cyclodextrin Polymers as Adsorbent Material
Authors: Cegarra Antonio Tomás Hernández , Morte Teresa Gómez , Pellicer José Antonio , Vela Nuria , Rodríguez-López María Isabel , Núñez-Delicado Estrella , Hernández José Antonio Gabaldón
Published: December 2023

The significant environmental issue of water pollution caused by emerging contaminants un-derscores the imperative for developing novel cleanup methods that are efficient, economically viable, and that are intended to operate at high capacity and under continuous flows at the in-dustrial scale. This study shows the results of the operational design to build a prototype for the retention at lab scale of pollutants residues in water by using as adsorbent material, insoluble polymers prepared by β-cyclodextrin and epichlorohydrin as a cross-linking agent. Laboratory in batch tests were run to find out the adsorbent performances against furosemide and hydro-chlorothiazide as pollutants model. The initial evaluation concerning the dosage of adsorbent, pH levels, agitation, and the concentration of pharmaceutical pollutants enabled us to identify the optimal conditions for conducting the subsequent experiments. The adsorption kinetic and the mechanisms involved were evaluated revealing that that the experimental data perfectly fit the pseudo second order model being the adsorption process mainly governed by chemisorption. According to the KF constants values of 0.044 (L/g) and 0.029 (L/g) for furosemide and hydro-chlorothiazide, respectively and determination coefficient (R2) higher than 0.9 for both com-pounds, Freundlich yielded the most favorable outcomes, suggesting that the adsorption process occurs on heterogeneous surfaces involving both chemisorption and physisorption processes. The maximum monolayer adsorption capacity (qmax) obtained by Langmuir isotherm reveal a saturation of the β-CDs-EPI polymer surface 1.45 times higher for furosemide (qmax = 1.282 mg/g) than hydrochlorothiazide (qmax = 0.844 mg/g). Based on these results, the sizing design and building of a lab scale model were conducted, which in turn will be used later to evaluate its performances working in continuous flow in a real scenario.
Mountain Streambed Roughness and Flood Extent Estimation from Imagery Using the Segment Anything Model (SAM)
Authors: Baziak Beata , Bodziony Marek , Szczepanek Robert
Published: December 2023

Machine learning models facilitate the search for non-linear relationships when modeling hydrological processes, but they are equally effective for automation at the data preparation stage. The tasks whose automation was analyzed consisted in estimating changes in the roughness of a mountain streambed and the extent of floods from images. The Segment Anything Model (SAM) developed this year by Meta was used for this purpose. Images from many years from the Wielka Puszcza mountain stream located in the Polish Carpathians were used as the only input data. The model was not additionally trained for the described tasks. The model can be run in several modes, but the two most appropriate were used in this study. The first one is available in the form of a web application, while the second one is available in the form of a Jupyter notebook run in the Google Colab environment. Both methods do not require specialized knowledge and can be used by virtually any hydrologist. In the roughness estimation task, the average Intersection over Union (IoU) ranges from 0.55 for grass to 0.82 for shrubs/trees. Ultimately, it was possible to estimate the roughness coefficient of the mountain streambed between 0.027 and 0.059 based solely on image data. In the task of estimation of the flood extent, when selecting appropriate images, one can expect IoU at the level of at least 0.94, which seems to be an excellent result considering that SAM is a general-purpose segmentation model. It can therefore be concluded that SAM model can be a useful tool for a hydrologist.
Ternary Phenolate-Based Thiosemicarbazone Complexes of Copper(II): Magnetostructural Properties, Spectroscopic Features and Marked Selective Antiproliferative Activity Against Cancer Cells
Authors: Al-Salmi Iman K. , Shongwe Musa S.
Published: December 2023

The new diprotic ligand 3,5-di-tert-butylsalicylaldehyde 4-ethyl-3-thiosemicarbazone, abbreviated H2(3,5-t-Bu2)-sal4eT, exists as the thio-keto tautomer and adopts the E-configuration with respect to the imine double bond as evidenced by single-crystal X-ray analysis and corroborated by spectroscopic characterisation. Upon treatment with Cu(OAc)2·H2O in the presence of either 2,9-dimethyl-1,10-phenanthroline (2,9-Me2-phen) or 1,10-phenanthroline (phen) as a co-ligand in MeOH, this thiosemicarbazone undergoes conformational transformation (relative donor-atom orientations: syn,anti → syn,syn) concomitantly with tautomerization and double deprotonation to afford the ternary copper(II) complexes [Cu{(3,5-t-Bu2)-sal4eT}(2,9-Me2-phen)] (1) and [Cu2{3,5-t-Bu2)-sal4eT}2(phen)] (2). Crystallographic elucidation has revealed that complex 1 is a centrosymmetric dimer of mononuclear copper(II) complex molecules brought about by intermolecular H-bonding. The coordination geometry at the copper(II) centre is best described as distorted square pyramidal in accord with the trigonality index (τ = 0.14). The co-ligand adopts an axial-equatorial coordination mode; hence there is a disparity between its two Cu–N coordinate bonds arising from weakening of the apical one as a consequence of the tetragonal distortion. The axial X-band ESR spectrum of complex 1 is consistent with retention of this structure in solution. Complex 2 is a centrosymmetric dimer of dinuclear copper(II) complex molecules exhibiting intermolecular H-bonding and π-π-stacking interactions. The two copper(II) centres, which are 4.8067(18) Å apart and bridged by the thio-enolate nitrogen of the quadridentate thiosemicarbazonate ligand, display two different coordination geometries, one distorted square planar (τ4 = 0.082) and the other distorted square pyramidal (τ5 = 0.33). Such dinuclear copper(II) thiosemicarbazone complexes, which are crystallographically characterised, are extremely rare. In vitro, complexes 1 and 2 outperform cisplatin as antiproliferative agents in terms of potency and selectivity towards HeLa and MCF-7 cancer cell lines.
Multimodal Imaging of the Bimatoprost Sustained Release Implant (Durysta) after Intracameral and Middle Segment Delivery
Authors: Barnett Bradley P , Gargiulo Sophia , Randolph Shelbey , Lundquist Karen , Schafer Barry
Published: December 2023

Currently the bimatoprost implant (DURYSTA) is approved for a single administration secondary to concern for progressive corneal endothelial cell (CEC) loss with intracameral administration. In order to better understand the cause of CEC loss and other adverse events (AEs) with intracameral administration, multimodal imaging of the implant utilizing optical coherence topography (OCT), robotic ultrasound and bio microscopy video recording was utilized. Inherently the anterior chamber is a non-confined space. In certain examples the implant assumed a round and spotted structure as it picked up iris pigment as it migrated around the anterior chamber. Accordingly, we explored delivery of the implant in the middle segment behind the iris and in front of the pseudophakic lens. We then evaluated the suitability of various imaging modalities to assess the implant in this location. For middle segment administration, the ArcScan Insight 100 robotic ultrasound provided resolution and repeatability sufficient to monitor the implant behind the iris. This preliminary study hypothesizes that DURYSTA migration in the anterior chamber is the main source of AEs. Through use of a confined location, the middle segment, the implant is unlikely to migrate and cause CEC loss while also delivering drug closer to its site of action, the ciliary body. Further efforts are underway to understand the suitability of the middle segment for serial DURYSTA administration to maximize intraocular pressure lowering while minimizing AEs.
Enhancing Communication Efficiency and Training Time
Uniformity in Federated Learning through Multi-Branch
Networks and the Oort Algorithm
Authors: Juan Pin-Hung , Wu Ja-Ling
Published: December 2023

In this study, we present a federated learning approach that combines a multi-branch network and the Oort client selection algorithm to improve the performance of federated learning systems. This method successfully addresses the significant issue of non-iid data, a challenge not adequately tackled by the commonly used MFedAvg method. Additionally, one of the key innovations of this research is the introduction of uniformity, a metric that quantifies the disparity in training time amongst participants in a federated learning setup. This novel concept not only aids in identifying stragglers but also provides valuable insights into assessing the fairness and efficiency of the system. Experimental results underscore the merits of the integrated multi-branch network with the Oort client selection algorithm and highlight the crucial role of uniformity in designing and evaluating federated learning systems.
Understanding Syringomyelia in Myelomeningocele: A Clinical Observational Study.
Authors: Spezzani Chiara , Di Rita Andrea , Noris Alice , Peraio Simone , Lenge Matteo , Appleton Tayler B. , Menegatti Marta , Mantovani Giorgio , D’Incerti Ludovico , Taverna Maria , Giordano Flavio
Published: December 2023

Background: Myelomeningocele (MMC) is the most common open spinal dysraphism (OSD) and is typically associated with other clinical and/or radiological abnormalities. Chiari type 2 malformation (CM-II) is observed in 80% to 96.7% of patients, and approximately 80% of cases involve posterior fossa abnormalities leading to hydrocephalus. MMC patients can present with syringomyelia, which usually improves by treating hydrocephalus. However, a minority of patients develop a progressive form of syringomyelia requiring more invasive treatments. Through this retrospective observational study, our objective is to elucidate the incidence of syringomyelia, its symptomatic manifestations, and the associated radiological and clinical characteristics in pediatric patients diagnosed with myelomeningocele

Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on the medical records of 39 pediatric patients diagnosed with myelomeningocele at a tertiary referral institute. The study encompassed individuals born between 1997 and 2022. Descriptive statistics were employed to explore epidemiological aspects and clinical features. Additionally, incidence rates of syringomyelia and its progressive variants were calculated, with a focus on their correlation with diagnoses of hydrocephalus, Chiari type 2 malformation (CM-II), and spinal cord tethering.

Results: Over the last twenty-five years, the incidence of syringomyelia in pediatric patients affected by MMC was 46.2%. The incidence of its progressive forms was 16.7%. Two patients improved after the management of hydrocephalus with secondary Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy (ETV), and only one patient required syrinx-shunting.

Conclusions: The occurrence of syringomyelia among patients with myelomeningocele (MMC) in our center aligns with reported rates in existing literature. Our findings indicate that active hydrocephalus, leading to a deterioration of hindbrain herniation, appears to be a significant factor in the development of progressive symptomatic syringomyelia within this population.
Can a Particle Move Zigzag in Time?
Authors: Rubin Sergey G.
Published: December 2023

Amplitudes of quantum transitions containing time zigzags are considered. The discussion is carried out in the framework of the Minkowski metric and the standard quantum mechanics without adding new postulates. We argue that time zigzags are not suppressed at the quantum level, but their contribution to the amplitude is zero. The result is valid for a single particle and a non-interacting scalar field.
GC-MS, GC-IMS and E-Nose Analysis of Volatile Aroma Compounds in Wet-Marinated Fermented Golden Pomfret Using Different Cooking Methods
Authors: Chen Qiuhan , Yang Xuebo , Liu Meijiao , Li Zhuyi , Zhou Chunxia , Zhong Saiyi , Liu Shouchun , Hong Pengzhi
Published: December 2023

The cooking method is extremely important for the production of low-salt, wet-marinated, fermented golden pomfret because it strongly influences its flavor components and organoleptic quality. There are also significant differences in flavor preferences in different populations. The present study analyzed differences in the aroma characteristics of wet-marinated fermented golden pomfret after boiling, steaming, microwaving, air frying and baking using a combination of an electronic nose, GC-IMS and SPME-GC-MS. Electronic nose PCA showed that the flavors of the boiled (A), steam (B) and microwave (C) treatment groups were similar, and the flavors of baking (D) and air frying (E) were similar. A total of 72 flavor compounds were detected in the GC-IMS analysis, and comparative analysis of the cooked wet-marinated and fermented golden pomfret yielded a greater abundance of flavor compounds. SPME-GC-MS analysis detected 108 flavor compounds, and the results were similar to the baking and air frying. Twelve key flavor substances, including hexanal, isovaleraldehyde, and (E)-2-dodecenal, were identified by orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) and VIP analysis. These results show that cooking method is a key factor in the flavor distribution of wet-marinated fermented golden pomfret, and consumers can choose the appropriate cooking method accordingly.
The Bacterial Burden of Worn Face Masks – Observational Research and Literature Review
Authors: Kisielinski Kai , Wojtasik Barbara , Zalewska Aleksandra , Livermore David M , Jurczak-Kurek Agata
Published: December 2023

We investigated and quantified bacterial accumulation in facemasks used by the general population, using 16S rRNA (Sanger Sequencing), culture and biochemical analysis along with Rose Bengal staining. Additionally, a systematic overview of the literature on face mask contamination was undertaken. We found an average bacterial load of 4.24 × 104 CFU recovered/mask, with a maximum load of 2.85 × 105 CFU. This maximum is 310 times higher than the limit value for contamination of ventilation system outlet surfaces specified by the German standard VDI 6022. Biochemical and molecular identification predominantly found Staphylococcus species (80%), including Staphylococcus aureus, along with endospore-forming Bacillus spp. Literature reports also indicate contamination of masks by bacterial and fungal opportunists of the genera Acinetobacter, Aspergillus, Alternaria, Bacillus, Cadosporium, Candida, Escherichia, Enterobacter, Enterococcus, Klebsiella (including K. pneumoniae), Micrococcus, Microsporum, Mucor, Pseudomonas, Staphylococcus and Streptococcus. Bacterial counts increase linearly with wearing duration, and prolonged use may affect the skin and respiratory microbiomes, promoting consequential eye, skin, oral and airway conditions. These aspects underscore the urgent need for further research and a risk-benefit analysis in respect of mask use, particularly given their unproven efficacy in disrupting the transmission of respiratory viruses and their adverse social consequences.
Long-Service-Life Rigid Polyurethane Foam Fillings for Spent Fuel Transportation Casks
Authors: Zhang Zhenyu , Shen Guangyao , Li Rongbo , Yuan Lei , Feng Hongfu , Chen Xiuming , Qiu Feng , Yuan Guangyin , Zhuang Xiaodong
Published: December 2023

Soft materials bearing rigid, lightweight, and vibration-dampening properties offer distinct advantages over traditional wooden and metal-based fillings for spent fuel transport casks, due to their low density, tunable structure, excellent mechanical properties, and ease of processing. In this study, a novel type of rigid polyurethane foams is prepared using a conventional polycondensation reaction between isocyanate and hydroxy groups. Moreover, the density and size of the pore in these foams are precisely controlled through simultaneous gas generation. The as-prepared polyurethane exhibits high thermal stability exceeding 185 °C. Lifetime predictions based on thermal testing indicate that these polyurethane foams could last up to over 60 years, which is double lifetime of conventional materials of about 30 years. Due to their occlusive structure, the mechanical properties of these polymeric materials meet the design standards for spent fuel transport casks, with maximum compression and tensile stresses of 6.89 and 1.37 MPa, respectively, at a testing temperature of -40 °C. In addition, these polymers exhibit effective flame retardancy; combustion ceased within 2 s after removal of the ignition source. All in all, this study provides a simple strategy for preparing rigid polymeric foams, presenting them as promising prospects for application in spent fuel transport casks.
Comparison of Pearson’s and Spearman’s Correlation Coefficients Values for Selected Traits of Pinus sylvestris L.
Authors: Bocianowski Jan , Wrońska-Pilarek Dorota , Krysztofiak-Kaniewska Anna , Matusiak Karolina , Wiatrowska Blanka
Published: December 2023

The Spearman rank correlation coefficient is a non-parametric (distribution-free) rank statistic proposed by Charles Spearman as a measure of the strength of the relationship between two variables. It is a measure of a monotonic relationship that is used when the distribution of the data makes Pearson's correlation coefficient undesirable or misleading. The Spearman coefficient is not a measure of the linear relationship between two variables. It assesses how well an arbitrary monotonic function can describe the relationship between two variables, without making any assumptions about the frequency distribution of the variables. Unlike Pearson's product-moment (linear) correlation coefficient, it does not require the assumption that the relationship between variables is linear, nor does it require that the variables be measured on interval scales; it can be applied to variables measured at the ordinal level. The purpose of this study is to compare the values of Pearson's product-moment correlation coefficient (treating the data in a quantitative way) and Spearman's rank correlation coefficient (treating the same data in a somewhat "qualitative" way) and their statistical significance for six Pinus sylvestris L. traits (original – for Pearson's coefficient and ranked – for Spearman's coefficient) estimated from all observations, object means (for trees) and medians. The results show that the linear and rank correlation coefficients are consistent (as to direction and strength). In cases of divergence in the direction of correlation, the correlation coefficients were not statistically significant, which does not imply consistency in decision-making. Estimation of correlation coefficients based on medians is robust to outlier observations and factors that linear correlation is then very similar to rank correlation.
Breathable Iron-based MIL–88 Framework as Dyes Adsorbent in Aqueous Solution
Authors: Nurani Dita Arifa , Anisa Nabila , Khatrin Irena , Yasmin Yasmin , Kadja Grandprix Thomryes Marth , Krisnandi Yuni Krisyuningsih
Published: December 2023

Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) have been observed to exclusively eliminate dyes confined within their respective pores. In this investigation, the synthesis of a breathable MOF structure, MIL-88B(Fe), was pursued with the objective of circumventing restrictions on pore size to en-hance its adsorption capabilities. The synthesis of MIL-88B(Fe) was carried out via the assisted solvothermal method at 373 K using inexpensive yet environmentally benign FeCl3.6H2O, 1,4-benzenedicarboxylic acid and DMF as metal precursor, as linker and solvent, respectively. Furthermore, MOF was subjected to extensive analytical characterization using XRD, FT-IR spectroscopy, N2 gas sorption, TGA, and SEM. The experimental data showed that the utilization of MIL-88B(Fe) with a dose level of 5 mg for 180 mins at pH of 9 led to the highest levels of ad-sorption for both dyes with 162.82 mg g-1 for Methylene Blue (MB) and 144.65 mg g-1 for Rho-damine B (RhB), as a result of contrast molecular size between each dye. The Langmuir and Freundlich models demonstrate a correlation with isotherms, while the thermodynamic analysis demonstrated that MIL-88B(Fe) exhibits distinct endothermic and breathable properties. The ef-ficacy of MIL-88B(Fe) adsorbent for MB and RhB in aqueous solutions indicated exceptional performance, stability, and noteworthy reusability performance.
R&D Accrual Accounting for Cash Flow Projections Affects En-Terprise Value
Authors: Tao RuiXin , Yu XiaoYu , Bae KheeSu
Published: December 2023

This study empirically analyzes how R&D expenditures affect firm value using a regression model for listed firms in Shandong Province, China. The dependent variable is measured by To-bin Q, which measures firm value, and the experimental variable among the independent varia-bles is R&D expenditure. In addition, financial leverage and firm size, which have been found to have a significant impact on firm value in previous studies, were selected as control variables. The study sample consisted of 554 data points analyzed over a nine-year period from 2010 to 2018. Without controlling for variables that affect firm value, the correlation analysis shows that R&D expenditures of listed firms in Shandong Province, China have a significant positive impact on firm value at the 1% level. For a more precise analysis, we ran a multivariate regression analysis controlling for other variables that affect firm value and found that R&D expenditure has a significant positive impact on firm value at the 1% level. These findings suggest that man-agers of listed companies in Shandong Province, China, need to actively engage in R&D activi-ties to increase firm value. Companies in Shandong Province, China, are currently experiencing very strong growth, and this study, which shows that R&D is the key to increasing the value of these companies, can help companies in Shandong formulate their business strategies.
A Cross-Sectional, Multicenter, Disease-Specific, Health-Related Quality of Life study in Greek Transfusion Dependent Thalassemia Patients
Authors: Klonizakis Philippos , Roy Noémi , Papatsouma Ioanna , Mainou Maria , Christodoulou Ioanna , Pantelidou Despina , Kokkota Smaro , Diamantidis Michael , Kourakli Alexandra , Lazaris Vasilios , Andriopoulos Dimitrios , Tsapas Apostolos , Klaassen Robert J. , Vlachaki Efthymia
Published: December 2023

The assessment of Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) in Thalassemia offers a holistic approach to the disease and facilitates better communication between physicians and patients. This study aimed to evaluate the HRQoL of Transfusion-Dependent Thalassemia (TDT) patients in Greece. This was a multicentre, cross-sectional study conducted in 2017, involving 283 adult TDT patients. All participants completed a set of two QoL questionnaires, the generic SF-36v2 and the disease-specific TranQol. Demographic and clinical characteristics were used to predefine patient subgroups. Significant factors identified in univariate analysis were entered into a multivariate analysis to assess their effect on HRQoL. The SF-36 scores of TDT patients were consistently lower, compared to the general population in Greece. The mean summary score of TranQol was relatively high (71±14%), exceeding levels observed in national surveys in other countries. Employment emerged as the most significant independent factor associated with better HRQoL, whereas age had the most significant negative effect. This study represents the first comprehensive QoL assessment in a representative sample of the TDT population in Greece. The implementation of TranQol allowed for the quantification of HRQoL in Greece, establishing a baseline for future follow-up, and identifying more vulnerable patient subgroups.
Black Soils in the Eastern Mediterranean: Genesis and Properties
Authors: Hag Husein Hussam , Bäumler Rupert , Lucke Bernhard , Sahwan Wahib
Published: December 2023

Knowledge about the genesis and evolution of black soils in the Eastern Mediterranean is vital for sustainable land management. In this study, the black soils that currently occur in the Eastern Mediterranean were analyzed in different bioclimatic zones and were found to genetically be long to three soil types: 1-Calcareous black soils (Rendzina, Para-Rendzina) (Rendzic or Somerirendzic Leptosols -Typic Rendolls or Lithic Rendolls), 2-Hydromorphic black soils (Calcic Chernozems -Haploxerolls). 3- Black soils on Basalt (Somerirendzic Leptosols) (Haploxerolls). The impact of the relief was obvious on both the thickness of the solum and the mollic horizon. Rendzina occurs on the toe and feet slope, Para-Rendzina on the shoulders, and Chernozems on a flat plain. The color of the epipedon in Rendzina reflects the origin of the prevailing parent material from which they are derived: Proper Rendzina found on limestone, chalk, sandstone, conglomerate, and claystone; Reddish Rendzina on Dolomite and hard limestone, and Grayish Rendzina on Serpentine. It was also found that the Hydromorphic black soils only occur on calcic marl and lacustrine deposits in the depressions arising from the Dead Sea faults under saturation or bad drainage conditions. This soil has a thick, dark mollic horizon and high organic matter content.
Shrews (Soricidae) and Viruses Identified in Shrews
Authors: Gong Huan-Yu , Chen Rui-Xu , Tan Su-Mei , Wang Xiu , Chen Ji-Ming , Zhang Yuan-Long , Liao Ming
Published: December 2023

Shrews (Soricidae) are common small wild mammals with a significant overlap in their habitats with humans and domestic animals. Currently, viruses from 24 families have been identified in shrews, including Adenoviridae, Arenaviridae, Arteriviridae, Astroviridae, Bornaviridae, Caliciviridae, Circoviridae, Coronaviridae, Filoviridae, Flaviviridae, Hantaviridae, Hepadnaviridae, Hepeviridae, Nairoviridae, Orthoherpesviridae, Paramyxoviridae, Parvoviridae, Phenuiviridae, Picornaviridae, Polyomaviridae, Poxviridae, Rhabdoviridae, Sedoreoviridae, and Spinareoviridae, which pose potential threats to humans and domestic animals. This review compiled fundamental information about shrews and provided a comprehensive summary of the viruses that have been detected in shrews, with the aim to facilitating a deeper understanding of shrews and the diversity and risks of their viruses for researchers and the general public.
Tumor and Tumor-Like Lesions in Red Foxes (Vulpes vulpes) from Croatia
Authors: Naletilić Šimun , Šoštarić-Zuckermann Ivan-Conrado , Mihaljević Željko
Published: December 2023

The red fox, found on all continents except Antarctica, occupies diverse habitats. In Croatia it is an indigenous wild species with a population density of 0.7 animals per square kilometer. While tumors in wild animals from the Canidae family are scarce, the true prevalence and diversity of tumors are likely underestimated due to limited research. So far, a limited number of tumors were observed among the red fox population, either in their natural habitat or in captivity. As part of the National rabies control program, we examined 1,890 red fox carcasses over a four-year period. Our focus was on identifying abnormalities on the skin and internal organs that suggest potential neoplastic proliferation. Five red foxes, three males and two females, were found to have growths resembling potential tumors. Their age distribution spanned from 2 to 7 years. Microscopic investigation revealed two collagenous hamartomas, two Meibomian gland adenomas and one intra-abdominal teratoma within a cryptorchid testis. This retrospective study aims to provide a comprehensive description of tumor and tumor-like lesions observed in free-range red foxes from Croatia, marking the first research of its kind in Croatia.
How Distributed Leadership Affects Social and Emotional Competence in Adolescents: the Chain Mediating Role of Student-Centered Instructional Practices and Teacher
Authors: Li Zhenyu , Li Qiong , Liu Wei
Published: December 2023

The study aimed to investigate how distributed leadership influences adolescents' social and emotional competence, considering the roles of student-centered instructional practices and teacher self-efficacy. Utilizing survey data from 7,246 Suzhou adolescents enrolled in the SESS program, the study employed multilevel structural equation modeling for analysis. The findings indicated a positive correlation between distributed leadership and adolescents' social and emotional competence, as evaluated by teachers. Moreover, distributed leadership was observed to exert an indirect impact on adolescents' self-assessment and teacher-rated social and emotional competence. This influence operated through several mediators: student-centered instructional practices, teacher self-efficacy, and the sequential mediating pathway of student-centered instructional practices → teacher self-efficacy. This study underscores the significance of supportive elements in fostering students' social and emotional competence. It offers valuable insights into the everyday practices of teachers, principals, and administrators. Additionally, it sheds light on how distributed leadership contributes to enhancing adolescents' overall social and emotional development.
The implicatively implicit bases in implicatively closed classes of three-valued logic
Authors: Marchenkov Sergey Seraphimovich
Published: December 2023

It is proved that for any k ≥ 3, any implicatively implicit extension in Pk contains a class of Hk homogeneous functions. In each of the 17 implicatively closed classes in P3, an implicatively implicitly generating system of functions is constructed. With the exception of the H3 class, each of the systems consists of one or two no more than two-place functions. A one-place function is specified, the implicatively implicit extension of which is different from any implicatively closed class in P3.
Avaliação de um caso de intenso aquecimento do ar noturno superficial no estado do Rio de Janeiro
Authors: Vieira Silveira Hana Carolina , Pinto de Almeida Palmeira Ana Cristina , Albuquerque de Almeida Vinícius
Published: December 2023

Na noite do dia 2 e madrugada do dia 3 de agosto de 2011, um aquecimento noturno foi observado em diversas estações meteorológicas na cidade do Rio de Janeiro – RJ. Tal aquecimento ocorreu de forma repentina e intensa, com aumento de até 5°C em uma hora no Aeroporto Internacional Tom Jobim (SBGL) e no aeroporto Santos Dumont (SBRJ), e 3,9°C na estação meteorológica do Forte de Copacabana. Normalmente, o ciclo de temperatura diurno é bem caracterizado, de forma que valores mais baixos e mais altos são observados no início da manhã e meio/fim da tarde, respectivamente. No entanto, alguns fenômenos meteorológicos podem provocar alterações neste ciclo, sendo mais comuns quando há a passagem de frente fria. Por meio de reanálises e de uma simulação numérica do evento utilizando o modelo regional de previsão numérica do tempo − o Weather Research and Forecasting – WRF −, foram identificadas características na coluna atmosférica, como uma camada de ar mais seco em níveis médios, logo abaixo de uma camada mais úmida, além de uma inversão térmica próxima à superfície. Esses resultados são semelhantes aos apontados por Johnson (1983) para eventos heat burst, que tem como características o aumento súbito da temperatura do ar simultaneamente à diminuição da umidade em superfície. O heat burst pode estar associado à dissipação de tempestades e é tipicamente de natureza noturna, quando uma camada limite estável se desenvolve neste período, e tem um papel importante para o seu desenvolvimento.
Palavras-chave: Aquecimento noturno, Heat burst, Rio de Janeiro.
Make A Match Model: An Effort to Enhance Problem-Solving and Mathematical Representation Skills
Authors: Anggoro Bambang Sri , Putra Fredi Ganda , Pupiyanti Ika
Published: December 2023

This study aims to assess the impact of the "Make A Match" learning model on improving problem-solving abilities and mathematical representation among middle school students. Conducted at Mesuji Raya State Junior High School, this quasi-experimental study focused on the entire eighth-grade student body. A sample of 42 students was selected via cluster random sampling. Data analysis was performed using the Manova test with a significance level of 5%. The findings indicate a rejection of H0AB, suggesting a significant influence of the "Make A Match" learning model on enhancing students' problem-solving and mathematical representation abilities. These findings suggest that the "Make A Match" model can be an effective tool in aiding middle school students to improve their mathematical skills. This provides valuable insights for educators in developing learning strategies.

 

Kemampuan pemecahan masalah dan representasi matematis adalah keterampilan kunci bagi siswa di tingkat sekolah menengah pertama. Meskipun penting, menemukan metode pembelajaran yang efektif untuk meningkatkan keterampilan ini sering kali menantang. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengevaluasi efektivitas model pembelajaran make a match dalam meningkatkan kemampuan pemecahan masalah dan representasi matematis di kalangan siswa SMP. Menggunakan metode quasi eksperimen, penelitian ini dilaksanakan di SMP Negeri 1 Mesuji Raya. Target populasi adalah seluruh siswa kelas VIII, dengan sampel sejumlah 42 siswa yang dipilih melalui cluster random sampling. Analisis data dilakukan menggunakan Uji Manova dengan tingkat signifikansi 5%. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa H0AB ditolak, mengindikasikan bahwa model pembelajaran Make A Match berpengaruh signifikan terhadap peningkatan kemampuan pemecahan masalah dan representasi matematis siswa. Temuan ini menyarankan bahwa model Make A Match dapat menjadi alat yang efektif untuk membantu siswa SMP dalam meningkatkan keterampilan matematika mereka, memberikan wawasan berharga bagi para pendidik dalam pengembangan strategi pembelajaran.
A study of intersphincteric resection rate following robotic-assisted total mesorectal excision versus laparoscopic-assisted total mesorectal excision for patients with middle and low rectal cancer: Study protocol for a multicenter randomized clinical trial
Authors: Guo Yuchen , He Liang , Tong Weidong , Chi Zhaocheng , Ren Shuangyi , Cui Binbin , Wang Quan
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Robotic-assisted complete mesorectal excision (RATME) is increasingly being used by colorectal surgeons. Most surgeons consider RATME a safe method, and believe it can facilitate total mesorectal excision (TME) in rectal cancer, and may potentially have advantages over intersphincteric resection (ISR) and anus preservation. Therefore, this trial was designed to investigate whether RATME has technical advantages and can increase the ISR rate compared with laparoscopic-assisted TME (LATME) in patients with middle and low rectal cancer.
Methods and analysis: This is a multicenter, superiority, randomized controlled trial designed to compare RATME and LATME in middle and low rectal cancer. The primary endpoint is the ISR rate. The secondary endpoints are coloanal anastomosis (CAA) rate, conversion to open surgery, conversion to transanal TME (TaTME), abdominoperineal resection (APR) rate, postoperative morbidity and mortality within 30 days, pathological outcomes,long-term survival outcomes, functional outcomes,and quality of life. In addition, certain measurements will be conducted to ensure quality and safety, including centralized photography review and semiannual assessment.
Discussion: This trial will clarify if RATME improves ISR and promotes anus preservation in patients with mid- and low-rectal cancer. Furthermore, this trial will provide evidence on the optimal treatment strategies for RATME and LATME in patients with mid- and low-rectal cancer regarding improved operational safety.
Trial registration: The trial has been registered on ClinicalTrials.gov website, NCT06105203.
Hypertension versus diabetes in patients with alcohol use disorder: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Tseng Pei-Ying , Sung Fung-Chang , Muo Chih-Hsin , Lan Yu-Ching , Hser Yih-Ing , Chien Sarina Hui-Lin , Wang Jong-Yi
Published: December 2023

Background
A population-based follow-up study assessing the risk of developing hypertension and diabetes mellitus (DM) associated with alcohol use disorder (AUD) is crucial. We investigated this relationship by using insurance claims data from Taiwan.
Methods
From the claims data, an AUD cohort (N = 60,590) diagnosed between 2000 and 2006 and a non-AUD comparison cohort (N = 60,590) without the diagnosis of hypertension or DM at baseline were established and matched by propensity scores estimated by baseline demographic status and the Charlson comorbidity index (CCI). We assessed the incidence rates of hypertension and/or diabetes at the end of 2016 and used Cox’s method to estimate the related hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).
Results
Relative to the comparison cohort, the AUD cohort had an approximately 1.70-fold higher incidence of hypertension (35.1 vs. 20.7 per 1,000 person-years), with an adjusted HR (aHR) of 1.72 (95% CI: 1.68–1.76), 2.16-fold higher incidence of diabetes (20.2 vs. 9.36 per 1,000 person-years), with an aHR of 2.18 (95% CI: 2.11–2.24), and 1.91-fold higher incidence of both DM and hypertension (10.3 vs. 5.38 per 1,000 person-years) with an aHR of 2.02 (95% CI: 1.94–2.10). The incidence rates of all outcomes were greater in men than in women, whereas the HRs were greater for AUD in women than for AUD in men relative to the respective comparison patients. The risk increased further for subjects with CCI ≥ 1, which was higher in the AUD cohort.
Conclusions
The increased risk of developing DM and hypertension in patients with AUD indicates that clinicians should address potential comorbidities in these patients.