bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
WiN-Reha—effectiveness and durability of effects of orthopedic rehabilitation programs and the study of psychological determinants of aftercare behaviors: a study protocol
Authors: Feil Katharina , Fritsch Julian , Weyland Susanne , Rittmann Lena-Marie , Schmidt Detlef , Jekauc Darko
Published: March 2024

Background and aim

Rehabilitation programs have been shown to have a positive impact on patients' health and work ability. However, the durability of these effects and the extent to which patients alter their health behaviors remain underexplored. This study is divided into two parts; the first assesses the effectivity of rehabilitation programs for orthopedic patients and the durability of effects. The second part examines psychological determinants of aftercare health behaviors.

Subject and methods

Study Part 1 employs a longitudinal study design with up to nine measurement occasions encompassing a three-year follow-up period. Treatment is provided as per orthopedic indications through rehabilitation centers. Measures include subjective health, work ability, body weight, and physical activity behavior. Study Part 2 incorporates a mixed-methods design, involving both quantitative and qualitative assessments. The quantitative component aims to recruit a subsample from Study Part 1 to assess psychological determinants of aftercare health behaviors over 12 to 24 weeks using Ambulatory Assessment. The qualitative component aims to explore the reasons for maintenance and discontinuation of health behaviors and involves a reflexive thematic analysis of interviews with at least 16 individuals, analyzing the differences between those who adopt and those who discontinue their aftercare health behavior.

Discussion

This comprehensive research project may offer insights into the long-term effectivity of rehabilitation programs. Furthermore, it may foster a more profound understanding of the successful incorporation of health-promoting aftercare behaviors, such as physical activity, into everyday life. Therefore, this study may contribute significantly to the evolving field of patient-centered rehabilitation.

Trial registration

The trial has been registered at the German Register of Clinical Studies (DRKS) with the registration number: DRKS00032257
Implementation of streamlining measures in selecting and prioritising complex cases for the cancer multidisciplinary team meeting: a mini review of the recent developments
Authors: Al-Hammouri Tarek , Almeida-Magana Ricardo , Soukup Tayana , Lamb Benjamin
Published: March 2024

In January 2020, NHS England and NHS Improvement, in the United Kingdom, issued a permissive framework for streamlining cancer multidisciplinary (MDT) meetings. Streamlining is defined as a process whereby complex cases are prioritized for full discussion by an MDT in an MDT meeting (MDM), while the management of straightforward cases is expedited using Standards of Care (SoC). SoC are points in the pathway of patient management where there are recognized guidelines and clear clinical consensus on the options for management and should be regionally agreed and uniformly applied by regional Cancer Alliances. While this report marks the first major change in cancer MDT management since the Calman-Hine report in 1995, its implementation, nationally, has been slow with now nearly four years since its publication. It is argued however that streamlining is a necessary step in ensuring the viability of MDT processes, and therefore maintaining patient care in the current socioeconomic context of rising workload and cancer incidence, financial pressures, and workforce shortages. In this mini review, we offer a succinct summary of the recent developments around the implementation of the 2020 streamlining framework, including challenges and barriers to its implementation, and the potential future directions in this field, which we propose should increase utilisation of implementation science. We conclude that ensuring successful implementation of the framework and the SOC requires securing a buy-in from key stakeholders, including MDTs and hospital management teams, with clearly defined (a) management approaches that include triage (e.g. through a mini MDT meeting), (b) assessment of case complexity (something that directly feeds into the SOC), and (c) roles of the MDT lead and the members, while acknowledging that the SOC cannot be universally applied without the consideration of individual variations across teams and hospital Trusts.
Bright Colors: Eat Me at Your Own Risk
Authors: Arun Retna , Gurholt Hannah , Bansal Udita , Gordon Swanne P.
Published: March 2024

Some poisonous animals use bright coloration to protect themselves from other animals that want to eat them. These bright colors are also called warning colors. Frogs, snakes, butterflies, skunks, and more all use warning coloration. But how do the animals get their bright colors and toxic poisons? Warning colors can be passed down to certain animals from their parents, and other animals get them from the foods they eat. Just because some animals have bright colors does not always mean they are toxic. Some animals, also known as mimics, copy the colors of toxic animals so they can protect themselves from being eaten. We will explore how poisonous animals show their true colors, and how non-poisonous animals that display the same signals can also be protected from predators. You may notice similar connections between color and warning signals all around you!
Fighting fair: community perspectives on the fairness of performance enhancement in esports
Authors: Friehs Maximilian A. , Klarkowski Madison , Frommel Julian , Phillips Cody , Mandryk Regan L.
Published: March 2024

Aims

This study aims to explore community perspectives on enhancer usage in competitive gaming and esports, focusing on the perception of fairness and concerns about various potential performance enhancers.

Methods

We conducted both qualitative and quantitative surveys to understand the competitive gaming community's opinions on different types of performance enhancers and their potential impact on esports. A thematic analysis was performed to identify key themes in how players rationalize their opinions.

Conclusions

The gaming community differentiates between potential performance enhancers based on how problematic they are for the esports scene, with the most concern surrounding hard drugs, pharmaceuticals, and brain stimulation interventions. Participants who are more invested in competitive gaming tend to be more sceptical of enhancers and express greater concerns. Four themes were identified in the thematic analysis: (1) risk, (2) morality, (3) enhancer effects, and (4) regulation. To increase acceptance and perceived legitimacy in decision-making, it is recommended that regulators engage a variety of stakeholders in transparent decision-making processes when forming tournament rules and regulations. This will help address the fragmented regulatory landscape and prevent potential differences in the perception of tournament winners based on the governing body supervising the competition.
Lumboperitoneal shunt and ventriculoperitoneal shunt for chronic hydrocephalus after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage: a comparison
Authors: Li Xiaolei , Wang Yuangang , Xia Bin , Che Hongmin , Yan Zhongnan
Published: March 2024

Objective

Chronic hydrocephalus after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) results in poor neurological outcomes and cognitive deficits. Currently, the main treatments for chronic hydrocephalus include ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS) and lumboperitoneal shunt (LPS); however, the optimal treatment for chronic hydrocephalus after aSAH remains controversial.

Method

The records of 82 patients were retrospectively analyzed, and the patients were divided into VPS and LPS groups based on surgical methods. The efficacy, shunt successful rate and complications were compared. The assessments of treatment efficacy included the Evans index score (EIS), Keifer's hydrocephalus score (KHS), Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) score and functional independence measure (FIM). Patients were followed up for three months to observe the postoperative curative effects and complications.

Results

The rate of shunt obstruction was significantly higher in the LPS group than that in the VPS group (p < 0.05), and the shunt successful rate was significantly higher in the VPS group than that in the LPS group (p < 0.05). The total rate of complications was 24.4% for LPS and 39% for VPS. The improvements in EIS, KHS, MMSE, and FIM within each group after the shunt were significantly different compared to those before shunt (p < 0.05). Compared to those in the LPS group, the improvements in EIS, KHS, MMSE, and FIM were significantly different in the VPS group after shunt (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Compared with LPS, VPS in the treatment for chronic hydrocephalus after aSAH had greater therapeutic efficacy, as indicated by improved radiological outcomes, improved shunt successful rate, improved clinical outcomes, and improved quality of life. Therefore, we believe that VPS is the preferred treatment option for chronic hydrocephalus after aSAH, while LPS should only be used as an alternative to VPS.
Postoperative Outcomes of Pre-Pectoral Versus Sub-Pectoral Implant Immediate Breast Reconstruction
Authors: Houvenaeghel Gilles , Bannier Marie , Bouteille Catherine , Tallet Camille , Sabiani Laura , Charavil Axelle , Bertrand Arthur , Van Troy Aurore , Buttarelli Max , Teyssandier Charlène , Tallet Agnès , de Nonneville Alexandre , Cohen Monique
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Immediate breast reconstruction (IBR) techniques are rapidly evolving. We compared the results from a single-center implant IBR cohort between subpectoral and prepectoral implants with and without a mesh. Methods: We analyzed all complications and grade 2–3 complications, the implant loss rate, the surgery time, the length of stay (LOS), patient satisfaction, the interval time to adjuvant therapy and cost, with a comparison between subpectoral and prepectoral implant IBR. Results: Subpectoral implant IBR was carried out in 529 mastectomies (62.0%) and prepectoral in 324, with a significant increase in prepectoral placement in recent years. Mesh was used in 176 prepectoral placements (54.3%). Any grade of complication was reported in 147 mastectomies (17.2%), with a significantly higher rate for prepectoral implant IBR (p = 0.036). Regression analysis showed that prepectoral implant was not significantly associated with any grade of complication or with grade 2–3 complications. Prepectoral implant IBR was associated with a significantly shorter operative time and lower LOS. Grade 2–3 complications were significantly associated with lower satisfaction. Higher costs were significantly associated with the subpectoral placement and mesh. A complication rate predictive score identified five groups with a significant increase in grade 2–3 complications. Conclusions: Prepectoral-M-IBR increased over time with no difference in complication rates compared to subpectoral-M-IBR. Prepectoral implant placement can be considered a safe technique.
Effects of Invasive Smooth Cordgrass Degradation on Avian Species Diversity in the Dafeng Milu National Nature Reserve, a Ramsar Wetland on the Eastern Coast of China
Authors: Chen Taiyu , Chen Pan , Liu Bing , Wu Dawei , Lu Changhu
Published: March 2024

Invasive smooth cordgrass (Spartina alterniflora) has been expanding rapidly through the coastal wetlands of eastern China and these changes negatively affect local birds. In the Dafeng Milu National Nature Reserve (henceforth referred to as DMNNR), rapid degradation of spartina occurs after an increase in milu (Elaphures davidianus; hereafter elk) numbers and ecological hydrological engineering. We evaluated the impact of such degradation on the abundance and species diversity of birds in the DMNNR during 2017–2021. We found that the area covered by S. alterniflora decreased significantly in the study area at a rate of 310 ha per year and by 62% during 2017–2021 (p < 0.01). With this decrease in the S. alterniflora area, the species richness and abundance of birds first increased and then decreased. Songbird density clearly decreased but species richness did not significantly do so. This research demonstrated that during the initial stages of vegetation degradation, there was a positive effect on bird diversity. With the increasing vegetation degradation increases, both songbirds and waterbirds experience negative impacts. The DMNNR is an important stopover site for waterbirds in the East Asian–Australasian Flyway, and additional measures are needed to control vegetation degradation and to restore the native habitats for birds.
Multipole Approach to the Dynamical Casimir Effect with Finite-Size Scatterers
Authors: Alonso Lucas , Matos Guilherme C. , Impens François , Maia Neto Paulo A. , de Melo e Souza Reinaldo
Published: March 2024

A mirror subjected to a fast mechanical oscillation emits photons out of the quantum vacuum—a phenomenon known as the dynamical Casimir effect (DCE). The mirror is usually treated as an infinite metallic surface. Here, we show that, in realistic experimental conditions (mirror size and oscillation frequency), this assumption is inadequate and drastically overestimates the DCE radiation. Taking the opposite limit, we use instead the dipolar approximation to obtain a simpler and more realistic treatment of DCE for macroscopic bodies. Our approach is inspired by a microscopic theory of DCE, which is extended to the macroscopic realm by a suitable effective Hamiltonian description of moving anisotropic scatterers. We illustrate the benefits of our approach by considering the DCE from macroscopic bodies of different geometries.
Impact of US Trade with China on Shareholders’ Wealth: Insights from Shipment Data in the COVID-19 Era
Authors: Kochan Mucahit , Gonul Kochan Cigdem
Published: March 2024

This study analyzes the impact of Chinese shipment volumes measured in TEUs on US stock performance in the initial stages of the COVID-19 outbreak. The analysis indicates that, initially, US stocks were negatively affected irrespective of firms’ trade engagements with China; however, as the global pandemic unfolded, companies with elevated imports from China exhibited more pronounced abnormal returns. The findings further reveal an increased influence of debt level and cash holdings on stock performance as the crisis intensified in Europe and the USA. These results highlight the evolving nature of global trade dynamics and their implications for financial markets amid global crises. Furthermore, this study provides valuable insights into the resilience of global supply chains during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. The observed pattern, where companies with greater import volumes from China experienced better stock returns, underscores the importance of adaptable supply chains during disruptions.
Predictive Energy Management of a Building-Integrated Microgrid: A Case Study
Authors: Mannini Romain , Darure Tejaswinee , Eynard Julien , Grieu Stéphane
Published: March 2024

The efficient integration of distributed energy resources (DERs) in buildings is a challenge that can be addressed through the deployment of multienergy microgrids (MGs). In this context, the Interreg SUDOE project IMPROVEMENT was launched at the end of the year 2019 with the aim of developing efficient solutions allowing public buildings with critical loads to be turned into net-zero-energy buildings (nZEBs). The work presented in this paper deals with the development of a predictive energy management system (PEMS) for the management of thermal resources and users’ thermal comfort in public buildings. Optimization-based/optimization-free model predictive control (MPC) algorithms are presented and validated in simulations using data collected in a public building equipped with a multienergy MG. Models of the thermal MG components were developed. The strategy currently used in the building relies on proportional–integral–derivative (PID) and rule-based (RB) controllers. The interconnection between the thermal part and the electrical part of the building-integrated MG is managed by taking advantage of the solar photovoltaic (PV) power generation surplus. The optimization-based MPC EMS has the best performance but is rather computationally expensive. The optimization-free MPC EMS is slightly less efficient but has a significantly reduced computational cost, making it the best solution for in situ implementation.
Low-Cost System with Transient Reduction for Automatic Power Factor Controller in Three-Phase Low-Voltage Installations
Authors: Popa Gabriel Nicolae , Diniș Corina Maria
Published: March 2024

In power engineering, the importance of maintaining a high power factor in low-voltage electrical installations is known. In power substations for industry, the usual method of coupling is to use an automatic power factor controller which connects capacitors banks (with electromagnetic contactors). Sometimes, AC reactors are connected to the phases of the capacitors banks (to reduce transient phenomena and the deforming regime), depending on the desired value of the power factor. This paper presents an analysis (more focused on experimentation) of a low-cost system for automatic regulation of the power factor with a reduction in transients and an increase in the life of contactors (eliminating the electric arc during switching on), with capacitors banks for low-voltage three-phase installations that connect the capacitors banks by means of one three-phase solid-state relay (an expensive device for a quality device; one is used for all capacitors banks) and using several electromagnetic contactors. The automatic power factor adjustment system has a controller with a microprocessor with six outputs, controlled by the phase shift between the current (measured with a current transformer proportional to the current in a bar) and the phase voltage, which is part of a system of distribution bars (L1,2,3, N) from which electrical consumers (e.g., induction motors) are supplied. To reduce transients when connecting capacitors banks, a three-phase solid-state relay and two related electromagnetic contactors are used for each capacitors bank. The automatic power factor controller is connected to two low-capacity PLCs that control the logic of connecting the capacitors banks to reduce transients. By using the proposed regulation system, a cheaper control solution is obtained compared to the use of one solid-state relay for each capacitors banks, under the conditions in which the power factor adjustment is made as in the classic solution. If twelve capacitors banks are used, the proposed installation is 22.57% cheaper than the classical power factor regulation installation.
Special Issue “Neurobiology of Protein Synuclein”
Authors: Toni Mattia
Published: March 2024

Synucleins are a family of proteins consisting of α, β, and γ synuclein (syn) [...]
Molecular Design and Spodumene Flotation—A Review
Authors: Retamal Jose I. , Robles Pedro A. , Quezada Gonzalo R. , Jeldres Ricardo I.
Published: March 2024

Spodumene flotation stands as the most commonly used method to concentrate lithium minerals. However, it faces significant challenges related to low collector recoveries and similarity in the surface characteristics of the minerals, which make the effective separation of this valuable mineral difficult. For this reason, numerous researchers have conducted studies to address and confront this problem. In this work, an exhaustive bibliographic search was carried out using keywords and search queries, and the results were structured in three sections according to temporal, methodological, and thematic criteria. The first section covers the period from 1950 to 2004, focusing on experimental tests. The second section covers from 2004 to the present and focuses on flotation tests and measurement analysis. Simultaneously, the third section spans from 2011 to the present and is based on molecular dynamics simulations. Topics covered include spodumene surface properties, the influence of metal ions, pre-treatment techniques, and the use of collectors. Ultimately, molecular dynamics simulations are positioned as a tool that accurately represents experimental phenomena. In this context, specialized software such as Materials Studio or Gromacs prove to be reliable instruments that allow a detailed study of mineral surfaces and other elements to be carried out, which justifies their consideration for future research in this scientific field.
Ripasudil as a Potential Therapeutic Agent in Treating Secondary Glaucoma in HTLV-1-Uveitis: An In Vitro Analysis
Authors: Yang Mingming , Kamoi Koju , Zong Yuan , Zhang Jing , Zou Yaru , Ohno-Matsui Kyoko
Published: March 2024

Human T-cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV-1), a virus that affects 5–10 million people globally, causes several diseases, including adult T-cell leukemia-lymphoma and HTLV-1-associated uveitis (HU). HU is prevalent in Japan and often leads to secondary glaucoma, which is a serious complication. We investigated the efficacy of ripasudil, a Rho-associated coiled coil-forming protein kinase inhibitor, in alleviating changes in human trabecular meshwork cells (hTM cells) infected with HTLV-1. HTLV-1-infected hTM cells were modeled in vitro using MT-2 cells, followed by treatment with varying concentrations of ripasudil. We assessed changes in cell morphology, viability, and inflammatory cytokine levels, as well as NF-κB activation. The results showed that ripasudil treatment changed the cell morphology, reduced the distribution of F-actin and fibronectin, and decreased the levels of certain inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, and IL-12. However, ripasudil did not significantly affect NF-κB activation or overall cell viability. These findings suggest that ripasudil has the potential to treat secondary glaucoma in patients with HU by modulating cytoskeletal organization and alleviating inflammation in HTLV-1-infected hTM cells. This study lays the foundation for further clinical studies exploring the effectiveness of ripasudil for the treatment of secondary glaucoma associated with HU.
Transcription Factor MYB as Therapeutic Target: Current Developments
Authors: Klempnauer Karl-Heinz
Published: March 2024

The MYB protein is a pivotal player in the cellular transcriptional network, influencing major important processes such as cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. Because of its role in oncogenesis, MYB is now a compelling target for therapeutic interventions in cancer research. This review summarizes its molecular functions and current therapeutic approaches aiming to inhibit its oncogenic activity.
Bacillus megaterium: Evaluation of Chemical Nature of Metabolites and Their Antioxidant and Agronomics Properties
Authors: Hur Anna , Saoudi Mohamed Marouane , Ferhout Hicham , Mzali Laila , Taillandier Patricia , Bouajila Jalloul
Published: March 2024

Bacillus megaterium is particularly known for its abundance in soils and its plant growth promotion. To characterize the metabolites excreted by this specie, we performed successive liquid/liquid extractions from bacteria culture medium with different polarity solvents (cyclohexane, dichloromethane, ethyl acetate and butanol) to separate the metabolites in different polarity groups. The extracts were characterized regarding their total phenolic content, the amount of reducing sugar, the concentration of primary amines and proteins, their chromatographic profile by HPLC-DAD-ELSD and their chemical identification by GC-MS. Among the 75 compounds which are produced by the bacteria, 19 identifications were for the first time found as metabolites of B. megaterium and 23 were described for the first time as metabolites in Bacillus genus. The different extracts containing B. megaterium metabolites showed interesting agronomic activity, with a global inhibition of seed germination rates of soya, sunflower, corn and ray grass, but not of corn, compared to culture medium alone. Our results suggest that B. megaterium can produce various metabolites, like butanediol, cyclic dipeptides, fatty acids, and hydrocarbons, with diverse effects and sometimes with opposite effects in order to modulate its response to plant growth and adapt to various environmental effects. These findings provide new insight into bioactive properties of this species for therapeutic uses on plants.
Gut Microbiota and Inflammation Modulation in a Rat Model for Ulcerative Colitis after the Intraperitoneal Administration of Apigenin, Luteolin, and Xanthohumol
Authors: Magadán-Corpas Patricia , Pérez-Valero Álvaro , Ye Suhui , Sordon Sandra , Huszcza Ewa , Popłoński Jarosław , Villar Claudio J. , Lombó Felipe
Published: March 2024

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory disorder affecting the colon, with symptomatology influenced by factors including environmental, genomic, microbial, and immunological interactions. Gut microbiota dysbiosis, characterized by bacterial population alterations, contributes to intestinal homeostasis disruption and aberrant immune system activation, thereby exacerbating the inflammatory state. This study assesses the therapeutic efficacy of intraperitoneal (IP) injected flavonoids (apigenin, luteolin, and xanthohumol) in the reduction of inflammatory parameters and the modulation of the gut microbiota in a murine model of ulcerative colitis. Flavonoids interact with gut microbiota by modulating their composition and serving as substrates for the fermentation into other anti-inflammatory bioactive compounds. Our results demonstrate the effectiveness of luteolin and xanthohumol treatment in enhancing the relative abundance of anti-inflammatory microorganisms, thereby attenuating pro-inflammatory species. Moreover, all three flavonoids exhibit efficacy in the reduction of pro-inflammatory cytokine levels, with luteolin strongly demonstrating utility in alleviating associated physical UC symptoms. This suggests that this molecule is a potential alternative or co-therapy to conventional pharmacological interventions, potentially mitigating their adverse effects. A limited impact on microbiota is observed with apigenin, and this is attributed to its solubility constraints via the chosen administration route, resulting in its accumulation in the mesentery.
Distortion Effect on the UHPC Box Girder with Vertical Webs: Theoretical Analysis and Case Study
Authors: Wang Chenguang , Wu Yaowen , Zhang Yuanhai , Tang Shiying , Li Weiwen , Wang Peng , Mansour Walid
Published: March 2024

Distortion deformation usually imposes a potential threat to bridge safety. In order to comprehensively understand the distortion effect on thin-walled ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC) box girders, an innovative approach encompassing the governing distortion differential equation is introduced in this study based on the general definition of distortion angle within the cross-section plane. The analytical results obtained from the proposed method are in accordance with those obtained from the energy method, and exhibit favorable agreement with experimental findings documented in the existing literature. Furthermore, a finite element model is developed on the ANSYS 2021 R1 software platform with the employment of a Shell 63 element. Numerical outcomes are also in good agreement with the experimental data, affirming the validity and reliability of the findings. In addition, parameter analysis results indicate that the distortion angle remains approximately constant at a location approximately 1/10 of the span from the mid-span cross-section of the box girder, regardless of changes in the span-to-depth ratio. Increasing the web thickness yields a notable reduction in the distortion effects, and decreasing the wall thickness can effectively mitigate the distortion-induced transverse bending moment. Compared with normal-strength concrete box girders, UHPC box girders can reduce the distortion angle within the span range, which is beneficial for maintaining the overall stability of the box girders. The outcomes obtained from this study yield engineers an enhanced understanding of distortion effect on the UHPC girder performance.
The Application of Bilayer Heterogeneous MOFs in pH and Heat-Triggered Systems for Controllable Fragrance Release
Authors: Huang Tianci , Cui Xinjiao , Zhou Xiaoyu , He Xiaolong , Guo Min , Li Junsheng
Published: March 2024

To facilitate the integration of a fragrance encapsulation system into different products to achieve effective releases, a dual-responsive release system with pH and thermal trigger control is designed in this work. A series of ZIF-8 (M) and bilayer ZIF-8-on-ZIF-8 (MM) materials are synthesized by a solvent method at room temperature. The fragrance is encapsulated into the ZIFs by dynamic adsorption or in situ encapsulation combined dynamic adsorption. The fragrance loading contributed by dynamic adsorption was as high as 80%. The fragrance loaded in the double-layer MM host was almost twice that of the monolayer host M due to the stronger electrostatic interaction between MM and vanillin. In the pH and thermal trigger response release experiments, the second MOF layer in the MM host, as a controlled entity, greatly improved the load and kinetic equilibrium time of vanillin, and realized the controlled release of guest molecules. The developed dual-responsive release system in this work exhibits great potential in daily chemical products.
Effect of Nitrogen on Growth and Optical Properties of Single-Crystal Diamond Synthesized by Chemical Vapor Deposition
Authors: Ren Ying , Lv Wei , Li Xiaogang , Dong Haoyong , Wöhrl Nicolas , Yang Xun , Li Zhengxin , Wang Tao
Published: March 2024

Concurrently achieving high growth rate and high quality in single-crystal diamonds (SCDs) is significantly challenging. The growth rate of SCDs synthesized by microwave plasma chemical vapor deposition (MPCVD) was enhanced by introducing N2 into the typical CH4-H2 gas mixtures. The impact of nitrogen vacancy (NV) center concentration on growth rate, surface morphology, and lattice binding structure was investigated. The SCDs were characterized through Raman spectroscopy, photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. It was found that the saturation growth rate was increased up to 45 μm/h by incorporating 0.8–1.2% N2 into the gas atmosphere, which is 4.5 times higher than the case without nitrogen addition. Nitrogen addition altered the growth mode from step–flow to bidimensional nucleation, leading to clustered steps and a rough surface morphology, followed by macroscopically pyramidal hillock formation. The elevation of nitrogen content results in a simultaneous escalation of internal stress and defects. XPS analysis confirmed chemical bonding between nitrogen and carbon, as well as non-diamond carbon phase formation at 0.8% of nitrogen doping. Furthermore, the emission intensity of NV-related defects from PL spectra changed synchronously with N2 concentrations (0–1.5%) during diamond growth, indicating that the formation of NV centers activated the diamond lattice and facilitated nitrogen incorporation into it, thereby accelerating chemical reaction rates for achieving high-growth-rate SCDs.
Tensile Load-Bearing Behaviour of Concrete Components Reinforced with Flax Fibre Textiles
Authors: Ricker Marcus , Kuhn Sebastian , Feiri Tânia , Zecherle Katrin , Binde Jan , Winkelmann Jana
Published: March 2024

In recent years, the use of natural flax fibres as a reinforcement in composite building structures has witnessed a growing interest amongst research communities due to their green, economical, and capable mechanical properties. Most of the previous investigations on the load-bearing behaviour of concrete components reinforced with natural flax fibres include inorganic impregnations (or even no impregnation) and exclude the use of textile fabrics. Also, the mechanical behaviour of textiles made of natural flax fibres produced as leno fabrics remains to be investigated. In this paper, the results of tensile tests on concrete components reinforced with bio-based impregnated leno fabrics are presented. For comparison, multilayer non-impregnated and impregnated textiles were considered. The results demonstrated that reinforced textiles yielded an increase in the failure loads compared to the concrete cross-sections without reinforcement. The stress-strain diagrams showed that the curves can be divided into three sections, which are typical for reinforced tensile test specimens. For the impregnated textiles, a narrowly distributed crack pattern was observed. The results showed that impregnated textiles tend to support higher failure stresses with less strains than non-impregnated textiles. Moreover, an increase in the reinforcement ratio alongside larger opening widths of the warp yarns enables higher failure loads.
Pulsed Radiofrequency for Auriculotemporal Neuralgia: A Case Report
Authors: Tereshko Yan , Belgrado Enrico , Lettieri Christian , Dal Bello Simone , Merlino Giovanni , Gigli Gian Luigi , Valente Mariarosaria
Published: March 2024

Auriculotemporal neuralgia is a rare facial pain disorder with no therapeutic evidence for refractory cases. We described a male patient with right auriculotemporal neuralgia, refractory to anesthetic nerve blocks and botulinum toxin type A injections, who was successfully treated with pulsed radiofrequency without adverse events. Pulsed radiofrequency may be an effective and safe treatment for refractory auriculotemporal neuralgia.
Organosulfur Compounds in Colorectal Cancer Prevention and Progression
Authors: McAlpine Patrick L. , Fernández Javier , Villar Claudio J. , Lombó Felipe
Published: March 2024

This work represents an overview of the current investigations involving organosulfur compounds and colorectal cancer. The molecules discussed in this review have been investigated regarding their impact on colorectal cancer directly, at the in vitro, in vivo, and clinical stages. Organosulfur compounds may have indirect effects on colorectal cancer, such as due to their modulating effects on the intestinal microbiota or their positive effects on intestinal mucosal health. Here, we focus on their direct effects via the repression of multidrug resistance proteins, triggering of apoptosis (via the inhibition of histone deacetylases, increases in reactive oxygen species, p53 activation, β-catenin inhibition, damage in the mitochondrial membrane, etc.), activation of TGF-β, binding to tubulin, inhibition of angiogenesis and metastasis mechanisms, and inhibition of cancer stem cells, among others. In general, the interesting positive effects of these nutraceuticals in in vitro tests must be further analyzed with more in vivo models before conducting clinical trials.
Integrating Machine Learning Ensembles for Landslide Susceptibility Mapping in Northern Pakistan
Authors: Ali Nafees , Chen Jian , Fu Xiaodong , Ali Rashid , Hussain Muhammad Afaq , Daud Hamza , Hussain Javid , Altalbe Ali
Published: March 2024

Natural disasters, notably landslides, pose significant threats to communities and infrastructure. Landslide susceptibility mapping (LSM) has been globally deemed as an effective tool to mitigate such threats. In this regard, this study considers the northern region of Pakistan, which is primarily susceptible to landslides amid rugged topography, frequent seismic events, and seasonal rainfall, to carry out LSM. To achieve this goal, this study pioneered the fusion of baseline models (logistic regression (LR), K-nearest neighbors (KNN), and support vector machine (SVM)) with ensembled algorithms (Cascade Generalization (CG), random forest (RF), Light Gradient-Boosting Machine (LightGBM), AdaBoost, Dagging, and XGBoost). With a dataset comprising 228 landslide inventory maps, this study employed a random forest classifier and a correlation-based feature selection (CFS) approach to identify the twelve most significant parameters instigating landslides. The evaluated parameters included slope angle, elevation, aspect, geological features, and proximity to faults, roads, and streams, and slope was revealed as the primary factor influencing landslide distribution, followed by aspect and rainfall with a minute margin. The models, validated with an AUC of 0.784, ACC of 0.912, and K of 0.394 for logistic regression (LR), as well as an AUC of 0.907, ACC of 0.927, and K of 0.620 for XGBoost, highlight the practical effectiveness and potency of LSM. The results revealed the superior performance of LR among the baseline models and XGBoost among the ensembles, which contributed to the development of precise LSM for the study area. LSM may serve as a valuable tool for guiding precise risk-mitigation strategies and policies in geohazard-prone regions at national and global scales.
Cost-Efficient Multi-GNSS Station with Real-Time Transmission for Geodynamics Applications
Authors: Vidal Maurin , Jarrin Paul , Rolland Lucie , Nocquet Jean-Mathieu , Vergnolle Mathilde , Sakic Pierre
Published: March 2024

GNSS is a standard tool for monitoring and studying the Earth’s dynamic environment. However, the development of dense GNSS measurements remains limited in many experiments by the cost of high-class geodetic equipment to achieve the high precision required by many applications. Recently, multi-constellation, multi-frequency, low-power and, above all, less expensive GNSS electronic chips have become available. We present a prototype of a low-cost, open-source multi-GNSS station. Our prototype comprises a dual-frequency GNSS chip, a calibrated antenna, a Raspberry Pi card and a 4G key for data transmission. The system is easy to deploy in the field and allows precise positioning in real-time and post-processing. We assess the performance of our prototype in terms of raw data quality, and quality of the obtained high rate and daily position one-year-long time series. Our results demonstrate a quality equivalent to high-class geodetic equipment and better quality than other low-cost systems proposed so far.
OESA-UNet: An Adaptive and Attentional Network for Detecting Diverse Magnetopause under the Limited Field of View
Authors: Wang Jiaqi , Wang Rongcong , Li Dalin , Sun Tianran , Peng Xiaodong
Published: March 2024

Imaging has been an important strategy for exploring space weather. The Solar wind Magnetosphere Ionosphere Link Explorer (SMILE) is a joint Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) and European Space Agency (ESA) mission, aiming at studying the interaction between Earth’s magnetosphere and solar wind near the subsolar point via soft X-ray imaging. As the boundary of Earth’s magnetosphere, magnetopause is a significant detection target to mirror solar wind’s change for the SMILE mission. In preparation for inverting three-dimensional magnetopause, we proposed an OESA-UNet model to detect the magnetopause position. The model obtains magnetopause with a U-shaped structure, in an end-to-end manner. Inspired by attention mechanisms, these blocks are integrated into ours. OESA-UNet captures low and high-level feature maps by adjusting the receptive field for precise localization. Adaptively pre-processing the image provides a prior for the network. Availability metrics are designed to determine whether it can serve three-dimensional inversion. Lastly, we provided ablation and comparison experiments by qualitative and quantitative analysis. Our recall, precision, and f1 score are 93.8%, 92.1%, and 92.9%, respectively, with an average angle deviation of 0.005 under the availability metrics. Results indicate that OESA-UNet outperforms other methods. It can better serve the purpose of magnetopause tracing from an X-ray image.
Relative Motion Estimation Algorithm for Noncooperative Targets Considering Multiple Solutions of Rotational Parameters
Authors: Hu Qiyang , Wu Shunan , Meng Fanchen , Wu Zhigang
Published: March 2024

On-orbit servicing using a space robot is gaining popularity among the space community for both economic and safety aspects. In particular, the estimation of the relative motion of a noncooperative target is a challenging problem. This study presents a relative motion estimation scheme based on stereovision for noncooperative targets considering multiple solutions of rotational parameters. Specifically, the mass distribution of the target is identified based on the least-square method and the principle of conservation of angular momentum. Then, the determination of a unique principal axis coordinate frame of the target is employed to resolve the multiple-solution problem. In addition, an EKF (extended Kalman filter)-based filter with global observability is designed to estimate the full motion states and inertia parameters of the target. The convergence performance of the proposed method is verified by numerical simulation. The results also demonstrate that the method is robust to occlusion.
Enhancing Few-Shot Learning in Lightweight Models via Dual-Faceted Knowledge Distillation
Authors: Zhou Bojun , Cheng Tianyu , Zhao Jiahao , Yan Chunkai , Jiang Ling , Zhang Xinsong , Gu Juping
Published: March 2024

In recent computer vision research, the pursuit of improved classification performance often leads to the adoption of complex, large-scale models. However, the actual deployment of such extensive models poses significant challenges in environments constrained by limited computing power and storage capacity. Consequently, this study is dedicated to addressing these challenges by focusing on innovative methods that enhance the classification performance of lightweight models. We propose a novel method to compress the knowledge learned by a large model into a lightweight one so that the latter can also achieve good performance in few-shot classification tasks. Specifically, we propose a dual-faceted knowledge distillation strategy that combines output-based and intermediate feature-based methods. The output-based method concentrates on distilling knowledge related to base class labels, while the intermediate feature-based approach, augmented by feature error distribution calibration, tackles the potential non-Gaussian nature of feature deviations, thereby boosting the effectiveness of knowledge transfer. Experiments conducted on MiniImageNet, CIFAR-FS, and CUB datasets demonstrate the superior performance of our method over state-of-the-art lightweight models, particularly in five-way one-shot and five-way five-shot tasks.
Palladium Phthalocyanine Nanowire-Based Highly Sensitive Sensors for NO2(g) Detection
Authors: Otero Vélez Crystal , Flores Soraya Y. , Fonseca Luis F. , Piñero Cruz Dalice M.
Published: March 2024

Palladium phthalocyanine (PdPc) nanowires (NWs) were developed to achieve the gas sensing of NO2 in the sub-parts-per-million (ppm) range. Non-substituted metal phthalocyanine are well known for their p-type semiconducting behavior, which is responsible for its gas-sensing capabilities. Nanofabrication of the PdPc NWs was performed by physical vapor deposition (PVD) on an interdigitated gold electrode (IDE). The coordination of palladium in the structure was confirmed with UV–Vis spectroscopy. Gas-sensing experiments for NO2 detection were undertaken at different sensed gas concentrations from 4 ppm to 0.5 ppm at room temperature. In this work, the responses at different gas concentrations are reported. In addition, structural studies of the PdPc NWs with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and electron-dispersive X-ray diffraction (EDS) are shown.
Influence of a Three-Month Mixed Reality Training on Gait Speed and Cognitive Functions in Adults with Intellectual Disability: A Pilot Study
Authors: Laly Alexis , Rosnet Elisabeth , Houel Nicolas
Published: March 2024

People with intellectual disability (ID) are often subject to motor impairments such as altered gait. As gait is a task involving motor and perceptive dimensions, perceptual-motor training is an efficient rehabilitation approach to reduce the risk of falls which grows with age. Virtual, augmented, and mixed reality are recent tools which enable interaction with 3D elements at different levels of immersion and interaction. In view of the countless possibilities that this opens, their use for therapeutic purposes is constantly increasing. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the influence a mixed reality activity could have on motor and cognitive abilities in eighteen adults with intellectual disability. For three months, once a week, they had around 20 min to pop virtual balloons with a finger using a Microsoft HoloLens2® head-mounted mixed-reality device. Motor skills were assessed through gait analysis and cognitive abilities were measured with the Montréal Cognitive Assessment. Both walking speed and cognitive score increased after training. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that mixed reality holds potential to get used for therapeutic purposes in adults with ID.
Validation of a 3D Local-Scale Adaptive Solar Radiation Model by Using Pyranometer Measurements and a High-Resolution Digital Elevation Model
Authors: Rodríguez Eduardo , García-Ferrero Judit , Sánchez-Aparicio María , Iglesias José M. , Oliver-Serra Albert , Santos M. Jesús , Andrés-Anaya Paula , Cascón J. Manuel , Montero García Gustavo , Medina Alejandro , Lagüela Susana , Asensio M. Isabel , Montenegro Armas Rafael
Published: March 2024

The result of the multidisciplinary collaboration of researchers from different areas of knowledge to validate a solar radiation model is presented. The MAPsol is a 3D local-scale adaptive solar radiation model that allows us to estimate direct, diffuse, and reflected irradiance for clear sky conditions. The model includes the adaptation of the mesh to complex orography and albedo, and considers the shadows cast by the terrain and buildings. The surface mesh generation is based on surface refinement, smoothing and parameterization techniques and allows the generation of high-quality adapted meshes with a reasonable number of elements. Another key aspect of the paper is the generation of a high-resolution digital elevation model (DEM). This high-resolution DEM is constructed from LiDAR data, and its resolution is two times more accurate than the publicly available DEMs. The validation process uses direct and global solar irradiance data obtained from pyranometers at the University of Salamanca located in an urban area affected by systematic shading from nearby buildings. This work provides an efficient protocol for studying solar resources, with particular emphasis on areas of complex orography and dense buildings where shadows can potentially make solar energy production facilities less efficient.
Increasing the Sustainability of the Stabilization/Solidification of Potentially Toxic Elements Contained in Tailings from an Active Mine Using a Modified Lime Mortar
Authors: González-Sánchez Jesús F. , Fernández-Villagómez Georgina , Loredo Jasso Alan Ulises , Fernández José M. , Navarro-Blasco Íñigo , Alvarez José I.
Published: March 2024

The use of a modified lime mortar as a binder for the stabilization/solidification of mine tailings presents a promising and sustainable solution for immobilizing potentially toxic elements found in these waste materials compared to cement mortars. The effectiveness of this modified lime mortar in avoiding the mobility of toxic elements, namely lead (Pb) and arsenic (As), in mine tailings has been thus studied. Encapsulating matrices of 1:1 and 2:1 tailings waste/air lime ratios were prepared. Due to the content of potentially pozzolanic compounds in the mine tailings, mainly some silicate phases, 1:1 matrices showed better mechanical strength than 2:1 samples, ascribed to a more intense pozzolanic reaction. SEM observations identified needle-shaped C-S-H structures. The hardened materials showed good endurance against freeze–thaw cycles. The semi-dynamic tank test demonstrated the effective encapsulation of the toxic components due to the use of lime mortars, yielding values of released Pb and As below the detection limit in all instances. Considering the cost-effectiveness, widespread availability, and ease of use, the use of modified lime mortar for the treatment of mine tailings can be recommended to mitigate the environmental impacts of mining activities.