bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling and control of vascular dementia disease by exact dosing of medicines
Authors: Vidhyaa C. B. , Vishnu Anirudh P. D. , Panda Bidisha , Sobana S. , Panda Rames C. , Laskar Jakir Hossain
Published: November 2023

Alzheimer's and vascular dementia (VD) is the most common neurodegenerative syndromes so the patients lead to loss of memory, a cerebral and behavioral malfunction which may be diagnosed by the presence of two types of neuropathological characteristics such as extracellular plaques consisting of amyloid‐β‐peptides and intracellular neurofibrillary tangles of hyperphosphorylated‐tau‐proteins. Accumulation of these components in the brain needs prediction using models, an alternate tool of experimentation. Mathematical models representing neuroanatomical with pathophysiological characteristics are formulated using continuity balances of bio‐materials to encompass vascular‐cognitive‐impairment. The partial/ordinary differential mathematical model of VD has been simulated in this work and has been used to synthesize control schemes for the prevention of the disease. The non‐linear model has been implemented for prediction‐based automatic control of VD (in virtual mode) with four manipulated physical variables of the patient, concentrations of intracellular amyloid‐beta, tau‐proteins, and microglia; where the virtual controller considers medicinal doses (using virtual nanodosing pumps) to maintain the concentrations of extracellular amyloid‐β‐peptides and neuronal dead‐cells by regulating the oxygen level of the brain within the prescribed level in the clinic. A comparison of performances between the model‐based‐predictive controller (MPC) and PI controllers shows that the former controller is better. Wireless monitoring of amyloid‐beta and tau‐protein from Cerebro‐fluids can be used to design MPC for automatic nanodosing of medicines to prevent dementia. These strategies can be commercially exploited for pharmacological involvement and useful for society to prevent dementia and later Alzheimer's.
Corporate sustainable development strategies: Under the collaborative governance of government and the public
Authors: Du Lei , Liu Xing , Sun Helin
Published: November 2023

As a problem of multiple failures, effective solutions to environmental problems require overcoming the limitations of single environmental policies and using collaborative governance with multiple regulatory instruments. Based on this, this study examines how collaborative governance between government‐led environmental regulation and public‐participatory environmental regulation can more effectively promote sustainable development strategies for firms. Using data from Chinese listed firms in heavy pollution industries from 2006 to 2019, we constructed a collaborative governance model, and found that (1) government‐led environmental regulation has a significant impact on end‐treatment but no impact on the source treatment of firms; (2) collaborative governance between government‐led and public‐participatory environmental regulation has a significant impact on source treatment but no impact on end‐treatment; (3) mechanism analysis shows that improving long‐term orientation and increasing corporate sustained investments are potential channels of the collaborative governance effect. These findings not only advance our understanding of the policy mix effects of different environmental regulation tools, but also have important policy implications for deepening collaborative governance practices in promoting sustainable development.
Utilization of iron scrap into copperas and rambutan (Nephelium lappaceum L.) peel extract into environmentally friendly iron nanoparticles for hexavalent chromium removal and its kinetics
Authors: Sunardi Sunardi , Sumardiyono Sumardiyono , Mardiyono Mardiyono , Hidayati Nur , Soebiyanto Soebiyanto
Published: November 2023

Hexavalent chromium is a toxic pollutant that is very harmful to human health and the environment. One of the materials for hexavalent chromium removal is iron nanoparticles (INPs). In recent years, the manufacture of environmentally friendly INPs has been of great interest. In general, INPs are made using sodium tetra borane/NaBH4, which is expensive. The synthesis of INPs using NaBH4 also produces side products in the form of toxic boric acid and hydrogen gas which are explosive and flammable. In this study, INPs are made by using iron scrap waste into copperas which is then reacted with rambutan peel extract (RPE). The reaction between iron scrap and sulfuric acid until crystals are formed and then washed until blue‐green crystals are formed. The resulting crystal is made into a solution and then reacted with RPE. After forming a black solution, it was dried by spray drying. The resulting black powder was characterized by UV‐Vis Spectrophotometer, SEM‐EDX, FTIR, and XRD. The results showed that iron scrap can be synthesized into copperas with a Fe content of 19.84 ± 0.15%. RPE has a total phenol content of 877.39 ± 16.6 ppm/100 g rambutan skin or equivalent to 441.42 mg GAE/100 g rambutan skin. INPs can be made from copperas from iron scrap and RPE which have Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) characteristics at 214 nm absorption, particle size 20–70 nm. Hexavalent chromium removal using INPs was maximum at pH 3, hexavalent chromium concentration of 5 ppm, INPs concentration of 0.15 g/100 mL, and contact time of 10 min. The adsorption isotherm type of hexavalent chromium using iron nanoparticles can take place chemically or physically. The correlation coefficient showed that the model of Freundlich (R2 > 0.99) is more suitable than the model of Langmuir (R2 = 0.98) with an adsorption capacity of 91.74 mg iron nanoparticles/g hexavalent chromium. The use of INPs for hexavalent chromium removal is a promising and effective technology. These results can be an alternative to the production of environmentally friendly INPs by using materials from waste into useful materials for the prevention of environmental pollution.
Selected micronutrients effect on growth, development, and yield of black nightshade (Solanum nigrum)
Authors: Rumani Muneiwa , Badza Taruvinga , Odindo Alfred Oduor , Mudau Fhatuwani Nixwell
Published: November 2023

Black nightshade (Solanum nigrum) is an important indigenous leafy vegetable consumed in sub‐Saharan Africa. The species is an important source of micronutrients for medicinal purposes. A controlled experiment was conducted at the University of KwaZulu‐Natal, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, to investigate the effect of zinc and boron applications on the growth, development, and yield of black nightshade. Each micronutrient (zinc and boron) was applied at five different concentrations, namely, 100 (T1), 200 (T2), 300 (T3), 400 (T4), and 500 (T5) ppm, including a control (T0) (distilled/high pressure liquid chromatography water spray), giving a total of six treatments. Treatments were arranged in a complete randomized design (CRD) with three replications, giving a total of 18 experimental units (pots). After 14 days of transplanting, the treatments were applied through foliar spraying three times over 24 h with an 8‐h interval between each spraying event. Data collection started 14 days after transplanting, and thereafter, measurements were taken fortnightly. At harvest (70 days after transplanting), fruit number, fresh shoot weight, dry shoot weight, root fresh mass, and root dry mass were determined. The results showed significant growth and yield differences with respect to the different concentrations of zinc and boron (p < 0.05). The application of 500 ppm of boron performed significantly better than all other treatments, viz., zinc, and control across the measured variables (p < 0.05). Therefore, it is concluded that the application of boron at 500 ppm was found to be effective in enhancing plant growth and higher fruit yield (45 fruits) of black nightshade.
Novel field data for exposure of bystanders and residents towards spray drift during application of plant protection products in orchards
Authors: Ahrens Katrin , Röver Markus , Molnar Gabor , Martin Sabine , Peter Enrico , Schäckermann Jan-Niklas , Bense Sandra , Wegener Jens Karl
Published: November 2023

Exposure to pesticide spray drift during the application of plant protection products (PPP) in orchards poses potential health risks to bystanders and residents. To address this concern, this study aimed to gather novel field data on exposure to spray drift in orchards. The research was conducted by the Julius Kuehn-Institute (JKI), the Federal Office of Consumer Protection and Food Safety (BVL), and the German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR). From 2018 to 2021, the method for conducting the field trials and analysis was implemented. The data from multiple series of performed field trials conducted between 2021 and 2022 allowed for collecting data on potential dermal exposure (PDE), inhalation exposure, and ground sediment. The trials considered various distances from the treatment area and drift-reducing techniques. Adult and child mannequins were used to simulate bystanders’ exposure, and petri dishes were used to measure ground sediment. The results showed that drift reduction settings (75% drift reduction) considerably reduced exposure levels on the mannequins. Furthermore, a strong correlation between PDE values for adults and children located next to each other at the same distance was observed. This finding suggests a possibility to convert exposure results from adult to child mannequins. The study produced realistic exposure data for bystanders and residents next to a treated area. It contributes to a better understanding of exposure risks from PPP application and includes data for different distances and spray drift reducing technique. If taken into account for further development of the current risk assessment models, new risk management options for the safe application of PPP, including buffer strips or application of drift reducing systems, might be available in near future.
Einsatz von Präventionsprogrammen an Grundschulen während der Coronapandemie (COVID-19, „coronavirus disease 2019“)
Authors: Froom Jana , Kaschek Nora , Willöper Ulrike , Karing Constance
Published: November 2023

Hintergrund

Bisher liegen nur wenige systematische Bestandsaufnahmen schulischer Präventionsprogramme während der Coronapandemie (COVID-19, „coronavirus disease 2019“) vor. Während dieser Zeit kam es zu massiven Einschnitten im Schulbetrieb, die zu Veränderungen in der Durchführung von Präventionsprogrammen geführt haben könnten. Daher wurde untersucht, (1) ob und welche Präventionsprogramme in Thüringer Grund- und Gemeinschaftsschulen in den Klassen 1 bis 4 von Pandemiebeginn im März 2020 bis zum Schuljahr 2022/23 eingesetzt wurden, (2) ob die Coronapandemie einen Einfluss auf die Durchführung von Präventionsprogrammen in Schulen hatte, (3) welche an Entscheidungs- und Auswahlprozessen beteiligte Personen, welche Informationsquellen und Ressourcen für die Durchführung von Präventionsprogrammen berücksichtigt wurden und (4) welche Faktoren für die Implementierung zukünftiger Maßnahmen berücksichtigt werden müssen, sodass mehr Präventionsprogramme eingesetzt werden können.

Methodik

Es handelt sich um ein querschnittliches Studiendesign. Die Studie wurde als Fragebogenstudie im Mixed-mode-Ansatz durchgeführt. Es nahmen 105 Thüringer Grund- und Gemeinschaftsschulen (1. bis 4. Klasse) an der Studie teil. Neben dem Einsatz von Präventionsprogrammen an den Schulen wurden am Entscheidungs- und Auswahlprozess beteiligte Personen, sowie Informationsquellen und Ressourcen für die Durchführung von Präventionsprogrammen erfasst. Des Weiteren wurden pandemiebedingte Durchführungsschwierigkeiten und für die Implementierung relevante schulische Kontextbedingungen von den Schulleitungen erfragt.

Ergebnisse

Die Mehrheit der Schulen führte während der Pandemie Präventionsprogramme durch, wenn auch weniger als zu präpandemischen Zeiten. In der Durchführung wurden pandemiebedingte Schwierigkeiten berichtet, die besonders mit Schulschließungen, Hygienevorschriften und fehlendem Personal begründet wurden. Zeitgleich berichteten die Schulleitungen einen wahrgenommen gestiegenen Präventionsbedarf. Im Planungs- und Entscheidungsprozess waren mehrheitlich Schulleitungen und Lehrkräfte beteiligt, während die Ressourcen vorrangig von externen Projektträgern zur Verfügung gestellt wurden. Schulische Kontextbedingungen wie Finanzierung und externe Unterstützung wurden als Hindernisse für den (zukünftigen) Einsatz von Präventionsprogrammen bemängelt.

Schlussfolgerung

Angesichts der berichteten rückläufigen Anzahl an durchgeführten Präventionsprogrammen während der Coronapandemie, sollte eine gezielte Förderung des Einsatzes von Präventionsprogrammen in Schulen in verschiedenen Bereichen forciert werden. Es besteht weiterhin Handlungsbedarf, (ausschließlich) evidenzbasierte Programme mit nachhaltiger Wirksamkeit in die schulische Praxis einzuführen. Der Anteil an nicht evaluierten Programmen ist weiterhin in Schulen weit verbreitet.
Micropropagation of Lepidium ostleri (Brassicaceae), a native endemic plant species
Authors: DeNittis Alyson M. , Larson Joseph M. , Kopp Olga Ruiz
Published: November 2023

Lepidium ostleri S.L. Welsh & Goodrich (Ostler’s peppergrass) is an endemic plant species restricted to Ordovician limestone outcrops associated with the San Francisco Mountain Range in western Utah. Due to restricted population distribution and proximity to modern mining operations, L. ostleri is a species of conservation interest. This study focused on the development of a micropropagation protocol for propagating mature plants using plant tissue culture methods. Indirect shoot organogenesis was obtained from L. ostleri explants on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium augmented with various concentrations of BAP (6-Benzylaminopurine), kinetin (N6-furfuryladenine), and IAA (indole-3-acetic acid). Plantlets supporting shoots grown in vitro were pulse treated with differing strengths of indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) and transferred to sterile soil. Following root induction, plantlets were acclimated to ambient conditions. The successful development of a micropropagation protocol supports management activities for L. ostleri and also contributes to in vitro propagation knowledge at the species, genus, and family levels.
Species identification method by a new non-invasive technique in Korean endangered terrestrial snail, Koreanohadra Koreana (Gastropoda: Mollusca)
Authors: Cha Deokjea , Kim Jin-Young , Kim Kang-San , Kim Young-Joong
Published: November 2023

Koreanohadra koreana (K. koreana) is an endemic species in South Korea that is listed as endangered. While the ecology and phylogenetics of K. koreana have been studied, its morphological similarity to the related species Koreanohadra kurodana (K. kurodana), can make species identification difficult. Furthermore, this has led to confusion when determining essential habitat information for the conservation of K. koreana. To bypass this issue, we have developed a non-invasive species identification method that can genetically differentiate between them. While there are already various non-invasive genomic DNA (gDNA) extraction methods that utilize the mucus from mollusks, they are limited as they require the target species to be physically located. To address this, in this investigation a method of extracting gDNA from the feces of snails was developed. The method utilized a primer set to amplify a cytochrome b fragment from K. koreana but not K. kurodana or other terrestrial snails. The feces of terrestrial snails could thus be used to obtain gDNA to a genetically usable level if collected within 5 days of excretion. This non-invasive species identification method using feces will help to facilitate genetic research without harming the endangered species and if the target species is not physically in the habitat. Moreover, K. koreana and K. kurodana could perhaps be further distinguished, using their habitat information to help facilitate essential conservation measures.
Spaces of functions and sections with paracompact domain
Authors: Smrekar Jaka
Published: November 2023

We study spaces of continuous functions and sections with domain a paracompact Hausdorff k-space

$X$

and range a nilpotent CW complex

$Y$

, with emphasis on localization at a set of primes. For

$\mathop {\rm map}\nolimits _\phi (X,\,Y)$

, the space of maps with prescribed restriction

$\phi$

on a suitable subspace

$A\subset X$

, we construct a natural spectral sequence of groups that converges to

$\pi _*(\mathop {\rm map}\nolimits _\phi (X,\,Y))$

and allows for detection of localization on the level of

$E^2$

. Our applications extend and unify the previously known results.
Semicircular canals are long in patients with benign paroxysmal positional vertigo
Authors: Başkadem Yılmazer Ayça , Bircan Hasan Sami , Erk Hamdullah , Kış Naciye , Göker Ayşe Enise , Hanci Deniz , Berkiten Güler , Uyar Yavuz
Published: November 2023

Objective

To search for any morphological variation contributing to aetiopathogenesis and the diagnosis of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, we measured the sizes of the semicircular canals in patients with and without benign paroxysmal positional vertigo using multidetector computed tomography.

Methods

Cranial bone computed tomography images of 30 benign paroxysmal positional vertigo patients and 30 control patients were acquired with a 128-slice computed tomography scanner and a transverse plane with a thickness of 0.67 mm. The inner diameter, height and width of the canals were measured.

Results

The width of the anterior semicircular canals, and the width and height of the posterior semicircular canals of the affected ears in benign paroxysmal positional vertigo patients (n = 30) were significantly greater than in the control patients (n = 90; p = 0.001, p = 0.023, p = 0.003, respectively).

Conclusion

In benign paroxysmal positional vertigo patients, the posterior and anterior semicircular canals are longer than those in people without benign paroxysmal positional vertigo. These morphological changes may contribute to elucidating the aetiopathogenesis and be used as a radiological sign for diagnosis of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo disease.
The effect of nasal douching by hypertonic 2.3 per cent sea water with algae extracts on the concentration of epidermal growth factor, transforming growth factor-α and interleukin-8 in nasal secretions of patients with nasal polyposis following endoscopic surgical treatment
Authors: Perić Aleksandar , Gaćeša Dejan , Kovačević Sandra Vezmar , Perić Aneta V. , Vojvodić Danilo , Georgiou Stella , Protopapadakis Evdokia , Alevizopoulos Konstantinos
Published: November 2023

Objective

To investigate epidermal growth factor, transforming growth factor-α and interleukin-8 production in nasal mucosa irrigated with hypertonic 2.3 per cent solution with algae extracts, in comparison to 0.9 per cent NaCl during the first two weeks after surgery for nasal polyposis, in relation to symptoms and local findings.

Methods

This prospective study included 20 nasal polyposis patients postoperatively irrigated with hypertonic solution and 20 nasal polyposis patients postoperatively irrigated with isotonic solution. We evaluated nasal symptom score, endoscopic score and mediator levels in nasal secretions before and after irrigation.

Results

Following treatment, nasal symptom score and endoscopic score were significantly lower in the hypertonic solution group (p = 0.023; p < 0.001, respectively). The increase in the epidermal growth factor and the decrease in the transforming growth factor-α and interleukin-8 concentration were higher in the hypertonic group (p < 0.001 for all mediators).

Conclusion

Irrigation with a hypertonic solution was found to be more effective than an isotonic solution in nasal mucosa reparation.
Biological observations and new maximum reported sizes for two threatened rays: ornate eagle ray Aetomylaeus vespertilio and mangrove whipray Urogymnus granulatus from the Gulf of Mannar, India
Authors: Lalitha Remya , Thomas Sujitha , Kizhakudan Shoba Joe , Shanmugam Thirumalaiselvan , Ayyakannu Gandhi , Muthayan Midhun , Raja Rajkumar , Vedhagiri Vetrivel , Umayan Rajendran , Kalimuthu Shanmuganathan , Murugesan Prakash
Published: November 2023

Record-sized specimens of the ornate eagle ray Aetomylaeus vespertilio and mangrove whipray Urogymnus granulatus were caught by single-day trawlers off Pamban Island in the Gulf of Mannar, Tamil Nadu, India during 2021 and 2022. All were landed at the Pamban Therkuvadi Fish Landing Centre (FLC). The largest ornate eagle ray was 384 cm disc width (DW) and weighed 530 kg, setting a new global record for the species, as the previous maximum size was reported to be 300 cm DW. This specimen was landed on 19 July 2021. Another large specimen of this species (360 cm DW and total weight of 453 kg) was caught and landed on 12 August 2022. The landed mangrove whipray was 153 cm DW and 150 kg total weight, larger than the previously reported maximum size of 141 cm DW. The morphometrics, stomach contents and reproductive state were studied. One of the eagle rays was a pregnant female with three full-term embryos in the uterus, while the whipray was a spent female. The main prey species in the stomach of eagle ray was big-eye scad Selar crumenophthalmus. The mangrove whipray had fed on a range of fish (pigface bream, goatfish, silverbellies, silverbiddies and lesser sardine) and octopus.
A Not-So-Hoppy Future for Beer Drinkers?
Authors: Morris Bill
Published: November 2023

New research examining the impact of climate change on hops production has brewed up a storm.
Emergent Climatic Controls on Soil Carbon Turnover and Its Variability in Warm Climates
Authors: Huang Heng , Wu Jin , Calabrese Salvatore
Published: November 2023

Climate plays a critical role in altering soil carbon (C) turnover and long‐term soil C storage by regulating water availability and temperature, and in turn biological activity. However, a systematic analysis of how key climatic factors shape the global patterns of soil C turnover is still lacking. Using global observation‐based data sets and a transit time theory, here we show that—excluding croplands and cold regions—soil C turnover time (τTO) and its variability are strongly related to ecosystem aridity through a power law scaling. According to such a relation, soil C turnover is faster but also more variable in wetter regions, suggesting more complex C cycling processes. The observed scaling of τTO and its coefficient of variation with aridity underlines the fundamental controls of climate on soil C turnover and may help reconcile soil C models with empirical observations for improved projection of soil C dynamics under climate change.
Modeling Multi‐Material Structural Patterns in Tectonic Flow With a Discontinuous Galerkin Level Set Method
Authors: Wú Qǐháng , Lin Shoufa , Unger André
Published: November 2023

We formulate a numerical framework, in both 2d and 3d, to model the structural patterns emerging from creeping viscous flow typically encountered in long‐term ductile lithospheric deformation by coupling the discontinuous Galerkin level set method with a finite element Stokes‐like flow solver. The level set formulation has the advantage of retaining information on the interface geometry, decreased memory requirement and improved computational efficiency from the two‐way particle‐mesh information transfer compared to particle‐in‐cell methods. Furthermore, our formulation fully exploits the advantages of the finite element method (e.g., the flexibility of mesh geometry and the ease of handling anisotropic materials) by using a unified finite element framework. The novelty of our formulation is the capability to offer a fully dynamic approach for modeling structural patterns resulting from a tectonic flow that is non‐steady and inhomogeneous. The material distribution and the finite deformation patterns predicted from the numerical model can be directly compared with geological map patterns (e.g., lithological distribution at specified depths and on cross‐sections) and field structural analyses (e.g., foliation, lineation and strain patterns), thus offering the possibility of ground‐truthing the modeling results by field evidence. As examples for potential applications of our method, we apply our method to the modeling of a competent inclusion in simple shear flow, as well as a Rayleigh‐Taylor type density overturn. Our models demonstrate good agreement with previous 2d benchmark results and produce 3d lithological and deformation patterns comparable to field observations.
Machine learning pre-hospital real-time cardiac arrest outcome prediction (PReCAP) using time-adaptive cohort model based on the Pan-Asian Resuscitation Outcome Study
Authors: Chang Hansol , Kim Ji Woong , Jung Weon , Heo Sejin , Lee Se Uk , Kim Taerim , Hwang Sung Yeon , Do Shin Sang , Cha Won Chul ,   Pan-Asian Resuscitation Outcomes Study Clinical Research Network investigators, Ong Marcus
Published: November 2023

To save time during transport, where resuscitation quality can degrade in a moving ambulance, it would be prudent to continue the resuscitation on scene if there is a high likelihood of ROSC occurring at the scene. We developed the pre-hospital real-time cardiac arrest outcome prediction (PReCAP) model to predict ROSC at the scene using prehospital input variables with time-adaptive cohort. The patient survival at discharge from the emergency department (ED), the 30-day survival rate, and the final Cerebral Performance Category (CPC) were secondary prediction outcomes in this study. The Pan-Asian Resuscitation Outcome Study (PAROS) database, which includes out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) patients transferred by emergency medical service in Asia between 2009 and 2018, was utilized for this study. From the variables available in the PAROS database, we selected relevant variables to predict OHCA outcomes. Light gradient-boosting machine (LightGBM) was used to build the PReCAP model. Between 2009 and 2018, 157,654 patients in the PAROS database were enrolled in our study. In terms of prediction of ROSC on scene, the PReCAP had an AUROC score between 0.85 and 0.87. The PReCAP had an AUROC score between 0.91 and 0.93 for predicting survived to discharge from ED, and an AUROC score between 0.80 and 0.86 for predicting the 30-day survival. The PReCAP predicted CPC with an AUROC score ranging from 0.84 to 0.91. The feature importance differed with time in the PReCAP model prediction of ROSC on scene. Using the PAROS database, PReCAP predicted ROSC on scene, survival to discharge from ED, 30-day survival, and CPC for each minute with an AUROC score ranging from 0.8 to 0.93. As this model used a multi-national database, it might be applicable for a variety of environments and populations.
Changes in total volatile organic compound concentration in Seoul subway stations before (2019) and after (2021) the COVID-19 outbreak
Authors: Hwang Sung Ho , Won Jong-Uk , Park Wha Me
Published: November 2023

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are major air pollutants often designated as specific hazardous or toxic. This study analyzed the trends in concentration changes and influencing factors of VOCs in underground subway stations in the Seoul Metro before (2019) and after (2021) the COVID-19 pandemic. A total of 506 samples were collected from 253 stations on lines 1–8 between May 2019 and September 2021. Total VOC concentrations in Seoul Metro increased after the COVID-19 pandemic 3.8 times over. The deeper the underground station platform, the greater the difference in the VOC concentrations between 2019 and 2021, which was positively related. Average VOC concentration was the highest (52.8 µg/m3) at a depth of 25–30 m and the lowest (23.9 µg/m3) at a depth of < 10 m in 2019. In conclusion, excessive disinfection during the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in increased VOC concentrations in the Seoul Metro, especially in the deeper underground stations. Less frequent quarantine disinfection is recommended to improve air quality.
Revealing the potential of necroptosis-related genes in prognosis, immune characteristics, and treatment strategies for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Cao Junhua , Wu Congxiao , Han Zhaofeng , Liu Zheng , Yang Zheng , Ren Minge , Wang Ximei
Published: November 2023

Necroptosis is a recently discovered apoptotic mechanism that has been linked to tumor formation, prognosis, and treatment response. However, the relationship between the TME and NRGs remains unclear. In this study, we analyzed the expression patterns of NRGs in 769 HNSCC cases from two distinct data sets. Our findings revealed distinct genetic groups and a correlation between patient clinical features, prognosis, TME cell infiltration characteristics, and NRG alterations. We then developed an NRG model to predict OS and confirmed its accuracy in predicting OS in HNSCC patients. Moreover, we have devised a precise nomogram that enhances the clinical utility of the NRG model substantially. The low-risk group had a better OS, and they were associated with immune suppression, more mutated genes, and higher TIDE scores. The risk score also had a significant correlation with the CSC index and susceptibility to anti-tumor agents. Our study provides insights into how NRGs affect prognosis, clinically significant features, TME, and immunotherapy response in HNSCC. With a better knowledge of NRGs in HNSCC, we could assess the prognosis and develop immunotherapy regimens that are more successful at opening up new doors.
Saliva culture as a predictive indicator for current blood infections and antimicrobial resistance in the ICU setting
Authors: da Rocha Santos Leonardo Moura Brasil , de Paula Ramos Lucas , Santos Carlos Eduardo Rocha , Miranda Diego Garcia , Gimenez Mariana Gadelho , Meccatti Vanessa Marques , Abu Hasna Amjad , dos Santos Oliveira Marcela , Neto Morun Bernardino , Dias de Oliveira Luciane
Published: November 2023

Antimicrobial resistance is a worldwide health problem and patients in intensive care are more vulnerable, requiring strict control measures and early identification. Currently, clinical culture materials are used to identify the bacterial agent, but saliva culture is not validated, which has great clinical relevance because it participates in several pathophysiological processes. The aim of this study was to validate saliva culture in an intensive care unit environment, determining its diagnostic value for infection. For this purpose, the results of the 39-month surveillance cultures, from the database of a private hospital were evaluated. A total of 323 cultures were paired between saliva, tracheal secretions, blood and urine from patients who were hospitalized for more than 5 days. The search for correlations between the results was performed using the Spearman correlation test. Severity and evolution data were also correlated. It was possible to correlate the presence of Klebsiella spp. between blood culture and saliva culture in 25% of the results (r = 0.01) and the correlation between saliva and tracheal secretion was 33% (r = 0.33447) with p < 0.0001. In conclusion, saliva can be an excellent discriminator of systemic infections, and can be considered a useful culture in clinical practice.
Enhancing investigative interview training using a child avatar system: a comparative study of interactive environments
Authors: Hassan Syed Zohaib , Sabet Saeed Shafiee , Riegler Michael Alexander , Baugerud Gunn Astrid , Ko Hayley , Salehi Pegah , Røed Ragnhild Klingenberg , Johnson Miriam , Halvorsen Pål
Published: November 2023

The impact of investigative interviews by police and Child Protective Services (CPS) on abused children can be profound, making effective training vital. Quality in these interviews often falls short and current training programs are insufficient in enabling adherence to best practice. We present a system for simulating an interactive environment with alleged abuse victims using a child avatar. The purpose of the system is to improve the quality of investigative interviewing by providing a realistic and engaging training experience for police and CPS personnel. We conducted a user study to assess the efficacy of four interactive platforms: VR, 2D desktop, audio, and text chat. CPS workers and child welfare students rated the quality of experience (QoE), realism, responsiveness, immersion, and flow. We also evaluated perceived learning impact, engagement in learning, self-efficacy, and alignment with best practice guidelines. Our findings indicate VR as superior in four out of five quality aspects, with 66% participants favoring it for immersive, realistic training. Quality of questions posed is crucial to these interviews. Distinguishing between appropriate and inappropriate questions, we achieved 87% balanced accuracy in providing effective feedback using our question classification model. Furthermore, CPS professionals demonstrated superior interview quality compared to non-professionals, independent of the platform.
The bacterial species profiles of the lingual and salivary microbiota differ with basic tastes sensitivity in human
Authors: Licandro Hélène , Truntzer Caroline , Fromentin Sébastien , Morabito Christian , Quinquis Benoit , Pons Nicolas , Martin Christophe , Blottière Hervé M. , Neyraud Eric
Published: November 2023

Taste perception is crucial and impairments, which can be linked to pathologies, can lead to eating disorders. It is triggered by taste compounds stimulating receptors located on the tongue. However, the tongue is covered by a film containing saliva and microorganisms suspected to modulate the taste receptor environment. The present study aimed to elucidate the links between taste sensitivity (sweetness, sourness, bitterness, saltiness, umami) and the salivary as well as the tongue microbiota using shotgun metagenomics. 109 bacterial species were correlated with at least one taste. Interestingly, when a species was correlated with at least two tastes, the correlations were unidirectional, indicating a putative global implication. Some Streptococcus, SR1 and Rickenellaceae species correlated with five tastes. When comparing both ecosystems, saliva appears to be a better taste predictor than tongue. This work shows the implication of the oral microbiota in taste and exhibits specificities depending on the ecosystem considered.
Net greenhouse-gas emissions and reduction opportunities in the Western Australian beef industry
Authors: Wiedemann Stephen , Longworth Emma , O’Shannessy Riley
Published: November 2023

Context The Western Australian (WA) Government has set ambitious emission reduction targets and is developing strategies to reduce emissions across the state economy, including agriculture. Aims This study determined the product carbon footprint (CF) and total emissions of the WA beef industry, to establish a baseline for emission reduction planning. Methods A cradle-to-gate attributional life-cycle assessment with a reconciled livestock inventory of herd numbers and turnoff, was used. Emission reduction strategies were examined and included herd management, enteric-methane mitigation, and removals via carbon sequestration in vegetation and soils. Key results Modelled livestock numbers were found to be 36% higher than reported in the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), resulting in an emission profile of 4.7 million tonnes (Mt) of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2-e) (excluding land use (LU) and direct LU change (dLUC)). This profile was 26% higher than emissions reported in state inventories. LU and dLUC were estimated to be a greenhouse-gas removal of −2.6 Mt CO2-e, although with high uncertainty. The mean CF for WA was 15.3 kg CO2-e per kg liveweight (LW) (excluding LU and dLUC). State-wide removals from LU and dLUC were estimated to be −8.5 kg CO2-e/kg LW. The CF was 11.7, 19.2 and 18.2 kg CO2-e/kg LW for the Agricultural, Kimberley and Arid regions respectively. The implementation of herd-management strategies and anti-methanogenic supplements resulted in a maximum 25% reduction. Conclusions Herd productivity and market specifications were key drivers of regional differences in CF. Opportunities exist to reduce the CF in northern herds through diverting cattle to Australian backgrounding and feedlot supply chains to reach slaughter weight at a younger age. Adoption of anti-methanogenic feed supplements were important; however, achieving major reductions in the next decade will rely on removals via carbon sequestration in soil and vegetation. Implications Considering the magnitude of removals and elevated uncertainty in this result, further research and new datasets are needed to refine this analysis. New datasets are required to accurately report livestock numbers and track and reduce future GHG emissions from this higher baseline. Technical, cost and adoption barriers will need to be addressed by developing actionable pathways to achieve emission reduction in the mid- to long term.
Traversing the Andes in the Most Beautiful Train in the World
Authors: Montero Carla Guerrón
Published: November 2023

In this case study, I take the reader on a voyage through Ecuador’s railway system. It was inaugurated as a unifying component of the nation’s transportation infrastructure at the beginning of the 20th century, then reconstructed and transformed into a heritage tourism attraction in the early years of the 21st century. The reconstruction project, initiated in 2008 by controversial President Rafael Correa Delgado (2007–2017), restored a large portion of the original railway system for heritage and tourism purposes. Even though subsequent administrations have abandoned the project, the revitalization of the railroad system is considered to this day as one of the most emblematic successes of Correa’s tourism policy and a model for railway tourism. Based on ethnographic and bibliographic research conducted between 2014 and 2023, I discuss the successes and limitations of using railway heritage tourism to enforce political ideologies and nation-building.

To Matt, my favorite eternal wanderer

Information

© The Author 2023
Effect of In doping on the evolution of microstructure, magnetic properties and corrosion resistance of NdFeB magnets
Authors: Li 李 Yuhao 豫豪 , Fan 范 Xiaodong 晓东 , Jia 贾 Zhi 智 , Fan 范 Lu 璐 , Ding 丁 Guangfei 广飞 , Liu 刘 Xincai 新才 , Guo 郭 Shuai 帅 , Zheng 郑 Bo 波 , Cao 曹 Shuai 帅 , Chen 陈 Renjie 仁杰 , Yan 闫 Aru 阿儒
Published: November 2023

The grain boundary phase affects the magnetic properties and corrosion resistance of sintered NdFeB magnets. In this work, a small amount of In was added to NdFeB magnets by induction melting to systematically investigate its effect on the evolution of the microstructure, magnetic properties and corrosion resistance of NdFeB magnets. Microstructural analysis illustrated that minor In addition generated more grain boundary phases and an abundant amorphous phase at the triple-junction grain boundary. While the addition of In failed to enhance the magnetic isolation effect between adjacent matrix grains, its incorporation fortuitously elevated the electrochemical potential of the In-containing magnets. Besides, during corrosion, an In-rich precipitate phase formed, hindering the ingress of the corrosive medium into the magnet. Consequently, this significantly bolstered the corrosion resistance of the sintered NdFeB magnets. The phase formation, magnetic properties and corrosion resistance of In-doped NdFeB magnets are detailed in this work, which provides new prospects for the preparation of high-performance sintered NdFeB magnets.
Unleashing the potential of solar irrigation in Bangladesh: key lessons from different implementation models
Authors: Mitra Archisman , Buisson Marie-Charlotte , Osmani Abdullah Zahid , Mukherji Aditi
Published: November 2023

The transition to solar-powered irrigation in South Asia offers an opportunity to cut greenhouse gas emissions and reduce dependency on expensive diesel. However, appropriate institutional and financial models are required to scale up this technology. Three different solar irrigation pump (SIP) implementation modalities coexist in Bangladesh, providing a good opportunity to evaluate and gain insightful knowledge on the solarization process. These conclusions are also applicable to neighboring countries dealing with comparable problems. The three models are (i) community-managed SIP model, (ii) individual ownership model, and (iii) fee-for-service model. In this article, we argue that the fee-for-service model involving a market-based approach and public-private partnership is the most promising in terms of addressing two main challenges in solarization, i.e. high capex financing requirement and generation of sufficient demand. In terms of achieving equity in SIP access and groundwater sustainability, all three models have their respective pros and cons. However, the financial sustainability of SIPs is under threat due to the significant project costs. It is imperative to expedite the integration of SIPs with the national power grid while implementing supportive government policies. This includes enhancing buy-back tariffs and introducing net-metering options to ensure long-term sustainability.
Finite central extensions of type I
Authors: Chirvasitu Alexandru
Published: November 2023

Let

G

\mathbb {G}

be a Lie group with solvable connected component and finitely-generated component group and

α
∈

H
2

(

G

,

S

1

)

\alpha \in H^2(\mathbb {G},\mathbb {S}^1)

a cohomology class. We prove that if

(

G

,
α
)

(\mathbb {G},\alpha )

is of type I then the same holds for the finite central extensions of

G

\mathbb {G}

. In particular, finite central extensions of type-I connected solvable Lie groups are again of type I. This is in contrast to the general case, whereby the type-I property does not survive under finite central extensions.

We also show that ad-algebraic hulls of connected solvable Lie groups operate on these even when the latter are not simply connected, and give a group-theoretic characterization of the intersection of all Euclidean subgroups of a connected, simply-connected solvable group

G

\mathbb {G}

containing a given central subgroup of

G

\mathbb {G}

.
19th-Century Spirit Photography
Authors: Spinner Cheryl
Published: November 2023

Spirit photography emerges out of the widespread movement of Spiritualism in the 19th century. In 1848, the Fox sisters of upstate New York claimed that the mysterious knockings emanating from the walls of their farmhouse represented the opening of a spirit telegraph that faciliated communication between the world of the living and the world of the dead. Spiritualism quickly became a techno-religious movement closely aligned with the abolitionist and suffragist movements. The movement utilized burgeoning technologies to apply a scientific rigor to phenomena beyond the five human senses. The photochemical process and the swift advancement of photography as both an art and science were particularly powerful mediums for providing evidence that spirits can manifest in the visible world. Sir John Herschel coined the term “photography” by combining the Greek words photos and graphé, literally “light writing” or “writing by light.” The term itself advances the concept that the camera produced an unmediated reproduction of the natural world, and, with the first spirit photograph emerging in 1862, believers understood that the camera was both capturing spirits of the dead and scientifically proving that the spirits were real. Nineteenth-century debates about the veracity of these images pivoted on the question of what photography was capable of capturing. Scientists knew that photography could capture invisible fluorescence, and Spiritualists argued that if the camera could capture the invisible world, then it could also capture spirits.
Virtual Reality Horror Games and Fear in Gaming
Authors: Lin Tammy Jin-Hsuan
Published: November 2023

Fear is a basic human emotion important for survival and for staying alert to potential danger. In psychology, fear is defined as a discrete emotion to help humans adapt to the environment and serves as a signal for potential danger to help humans avoid or prepare for such threats. While fear is typically experienced through real-world threats as a natural response for survival, modern society also exposes us to fear through mediated content like movies and news. Interactive media, such as video games and virtual reality (VR), have emerged as new ways to experience fear because of their immersive environments. Researchers have discovered that people have similar reactions to both real-life and mediated threats. Previous studies have explored the reasons and methods behind how people experience fear through media. With advancements in technology, researchers have also examined the emotional impact of interactive media, such as video games and VR.

This article examines fear elements, fear reactions, and coping reactions in video games and VR. Results indicate that horror games are the most likely to elicit fear responses in video games, and participants often experience greater cognitive than physical reactions. In VR, research has shown that elements that make players feel realistic inside the games, termed plausibility illusion elements, are most effective in eliciting fear. Players’ reactions toward the VR horror games include active approach strategies, or a constant reminder that the VR events are not real; directly disengaging physically and mentally; and other self-help coping strategies. In addition to immediate fear during VR-horror gameplay, some players showed residual fear on the day after they finished playing the game, indicating that the Tetris effect is strong in VR-horror games. Overall, the empirical evidence in existing gaming literature show that emotional responses are greater in VR than in non-VR video games. The literature also explores the appeal of horror games, and their mechanisms are reviewed. By understanding the fear responses of audiences in video games and VR, researchers and the industry can design effective intervention and training materials.

Media-elicited fear, mediated fright, is reviewed, followed by the appeal of horror games. Game elements from the design perspective to discuss various elements in horror games that may elicit fear are also reviewed. Fear reactions, negative emotions experienced in horror games and other game-related elements such as music and soundtrack, virtual environment, game characters’ appearance, and their facial expressions, all contributed to the fear emotion among players. The discussion of unique affordances and traits of VR and its implications conclude the article.
Mass Shootings as a Global Phenomenon
Authors: Silva Jason R.
Published: November 2023

There has been extensive media coverage, public concern, and calls for action surrounding mass shootings in the United States at the turn of the 21st century. To address this concern, there is a growing body of research aimed at understanding and remedying this problem in America. However, recent attacks around the world—like the Kerch Polytechnic College shooting in Ukraine, the Christchurch Mosque shooting in New Zealand, and the Suzano School shooting in Brazil—illustrate that mass shootings are a global phenomenon. To this end, it is critical for research to shed light on this troubling and complex issue and contribute to a more informed public and scholarly discourse on mass shootings and their impact around the world. To understand the global problem, it is necessary to evaluate the prevalence of incidents across countries, mass shooter backgrounds and profiles, and common locations targeted during these attacks. To address this phenomenon, it is important to consider strategies for prevention and harm mitigation, including instituting responsible gun legislation, addressing warning signs and leakage, implementing situational crime prevention measures, and advancing law enforcement responses.