bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on Improving Crack Resistance of Concrete by Waste Rubber Powder and Its Mechanism
Authors: Meng Yunfang , Ma Xiaoping , Han Li , Huang Yanzhu , Wan Zhiqing
Published: July 2024

In this study, we explore the use of an innovative mixture incorporating compound ecological fiber, waste rubber powder, fly ash, and single ore to enhance the cracking resistance of concrete. Through experimental analysis, we investigated the mechanical properties and underlying mechanisms associated with this composite material. The findings indicate that while the inclusion of mixed fiber and waste rubber powder does not significantly impact the compressive strength of concrete, these components notably enhance its toughness and early crack resistance. Specifically, the addition of these materials, along with single ore and fly ash, effectively reduces the brittleness coefficient of concrete, thereby markedly improving its resistance to cracking. This synergy between the materials demonstrates that the crack resistance of concrete can be significantly optimized through their combination.
Key Construction Techniques for Cable Hoisting of Long-Span Steel Pipe Concrete Arch Bridge
Authors: Yang Yan
Published: July 2024

Large span steel tube concrete arch bridges with the characteristics of high construction risk and high technical difficulty are usually constructed by cable hoisting technology. In this parper, the self-balance of the load-bearing main cable and optimized scheme for the main tower and anchor were proposed by conducting an iterative theoretical design calculation on the main cable. The design and key technology of the cable lifting system for large-span concretes filled steel tube arch bridge were investigated. Moreover, the “inverted loading method” was used for simulation analysis, which provides a scientific basis for the construction stage. The engineering practice results show that the optimization and innovation of the cable hoisting system can greatly improve design efficiency, enhance the safety of the cable system, and obtain good economic value.
Key Construction Technologies for Steel Truss Bridges in High Water Level and High Flow Velocity Conditions: A Case Study for Shoupanyan Bridge
Authors: Liu Haiyong , Li Ming , Dai Yuelong , Ou Mintao
Published: July 2024

Temporary steel truss bridges are increasingly used in engineering projects due to the large-scale construction and development of sea-crossing bridges. However, the construction of these bridges is greatly affected by environmental factors and can face significant challenges when dealing with complex conditions such as fast currents, water depth, and large fluctuations in water level. Therefore, advanced construction techniques are necessary to overcome these challenges. This paper discusses the design, analysis, and construction of a steel truss bridge over water under high water level and rapid flow conditions, using the Shupan Yan Bridge construction project as an example. The paper proposes novel techniques for drilled piles, lateral support, and bridge deck structure. Additionally, a detailed finite element model is established. The results of the finite element analysis demonstrate the suitability and practicality of the novel technology design proposed in this study for constructing steel truss bridges in complex water environments. The technology improves safety during construction. The research findings can provide guidance for similar projects.
XFEM Composite Failure Criterion and Slope Failure Simulation Based on ABAQUS
Authors: Li Zhiluo , Cheng Shijie , Yu Peng
Published: July 2024

Conventional numerical methods face major challenges in simulating the complex failure process of soil slopes effectively and accurately. This paper introduces a tension-shear composite failure criterion that elucidates the compound failure mechanisms of soil slopes, realized in the ABAQUS software through the secondary development of a user subroutine and simulated via the extended finite element method (XFEM) module. This method is utilized to simulate the process of soil slope failure under conditions that include heaping load at the crest and excavation at the toe, accompanied by analyses of the failure patterns. The methodology's validity and accuracy are substantiated through comparison with experimental data. The proposed approach adeptly captures the initiation, propagation, and ultimate penetration of cracks during the slope failure process, offering an effective method for simulating the entire slope failure.
Numerical Analysis of Large-Diameter Shield Tunneling Disturbance Considering Stratum Strength Anisotropy
Authors: Jiang Hao , Liu Wu , Cheng Jin , Yao Huayan , Li Renjie , Shang Jinhang
Published: July 2024

The anisotropic characteristics of natural strata could have a significant effect on the tunneling disturbance of shield tunnels. A shield tunneling disturbance simulation method considering the effect of stratum strength anisotropy is proposed in this study. The proposed method adopts the microstructure tensor theory to characterize the anisotropy effects of the stratum material cohesion c and the internal friction angle φ, and finely simulates the shield tunneling processes, including the shield shell advancement, the lining installation, and the shield tail grouting. The shield tunneling refined simulation method is validated by simulating the tunneling process in a certain section of a super-large-diameter shield tunnel in Wuhu City, Anhui Province, China, with good agreement between the simulated surface settlements on the axial and transverse profiles of the excavated tunnel after tunneling to different lining-ring numbers and the monitoring data. On this basis, according to the anisotropic compression strength property of the layered stratum in other sections, the effect of the stratum shear strength anisotropy on the shield tunneling disturbance is analyzed. The shield tunneling-induced surface settlement under the case considering stratum shear strength parameters anisotropy is obviously greater than that without accounting for the anisotropy, demonstrating the importance of considering strata anisotropy caused by geological structures during shield tunneling disturbance modeling.
Flow Test and Simulation of Underground Drainage Pipeline in Substation
Authors: Fang Xuezhi , Xiao Jianhua , Liu Rongwei , Chen Xiao , Yang Hanbo , Yu Jiangshun , Cai Yun
Published: July 2024

The flow process of underground water drainage pipeline is of great significance to the flood prevention and drainage of substation, and to ensure the demand of power supply. In this paper, the control test and numerical simulation of the flow process of underground drainage pipeline in substation are carried out. Based on the basic equations of water volume (continuity) and momentum of the full flow in pipelines, combined with the Preissmann slit assumption, the governing equations and their discrete forms of one-dimensional full flow are derived, and a one-dimensional full flow model is established. On this basis, the control experiment is carried out by using the flow process of drainage pipe, and the model is verified by the measured results. The results show that the one-dimensional full-flow model based on Preissmann slit hypothesis can effectively simulate the flow process of underground drainage pipes in substations, and provide technical support for flood prevention and waterlogging early warning of substations in humid areas.
Three-Dimensional Geological BIM Modeling Method Based on Shield Construction Simulation
Authors: Chen Ling-pei , Wang Tian-cheng
Published: July 2024

This paper presents a three-dimensional geological Building Information Modeling (BIM) method aimed at addressing safety simulation and rational construction parameter challenges in shield tunneling under varying geological conditions. Incorporating the characteristics of metro shield tunnel modeling, this study utilized both Revit and Dynamo software for modeling. The integration of information on completeness and depth, essential for meeting the requirements of shield tunnel construction, was achieved in the model. This integrated information was then effectively transferred to the finite element simulation model, addressing issues related to communication among participating units and the transmission of information between the BIM model and the finite element model. The research findings demonstrate that the three-dimensional geological BIM model, grounded in shield construction simulation, achieves the automation of shield construction object representation and information updating, thereby enhancing the level of informatization in shield construction.
Health Monitoring and Evaluation Method of Civil Engineering Structure Based on Machine Learning
Authors: Wang Xinyao
Published: July 2024

The health monitoring and assessment of civil engineering structures are important for ensuring structural safety and can Sustainability is critical. Traditional monitoring methods often require a lot of time and resources, and have some limitations in real-time and accuracy. In order to overcome these problems, this paper proposes a method of health monitoring and evaluation of civil engineering structures based on machine learning. This method combines sensor data with machine learning algorithm to realize real-time and accurate monitoring and evaluation of structural health status. By training and learning the data of existing civil engineering structures, the correlation model between structural health and sensor data is established. Through field experiments and simulation verification, the results show that the proposed method can effectively detect structural abnormalities, early warning potential faults of the structure, and provide scientific decision-making basis for engineers, so as to improve the safety and reliability of civil engineering structures.
Sublinear Elliptic Equations with Unbounded Coefficients in Lipschitz Domains
Authors: Hirata Kentaro
Published: July 2024

This paper is concerned with the homogeneous Dirichlet problem for a sublinear elliptic equation with unbounded coefficients in a Lipschitz domain. Bilateral a priori estimates for positive solutions and a priori upper estimates for their gradients are presented as a byproduct of the boundary Harnack principle. These estimates allow us to show the uniqueness of a positive solution of the homogeneous Dirichlet problem under no information about normal derivatives unlike in smooth domains.
Immediate Versus Delayed Low-Stakes Questioning: Encouraging the Testing Effect Through Embedded Video Questions to Support Students’ Knowledge Outcomes, Self-Regulation, and Critical Thinking
Authors: Wong Joseph T. , Richland Lindsey Engle , Hughes Bradley S.
Published: July 2024

In light of the educational challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, there is a growing need to bolster online science teaching and learning by incorporating evidence-based pedagogical principles of Learning Experience Design (LXD). As a response to this, we conducted a quasi-experimental, design-based research study involving nN = 183 undergraduate students enrolled across two online classes in an upper-division course on Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at a large R1 public university. The study extended over a period of 10 weeks, during which half of the students encountered low-stakes questions immediately embedded within the video player, while the remaining half received the same low-stakes questions after viewing all the instructional videos within the unit. Consequently, this study experimentally manipulated the timing of the questions across the two class conditions. These questions functioned as opportunities for low-stakes content practice and retention, designed to encourage learners to experience testing effect and augment the formation of their conceptual understanding. Across both conditions, we assessed potential differences in total weekly quiz grades, page views, and course participation among students who encountered embedded video questions. We also assessed students’ self-report engagement, self-regulation, and critical thinking. On average, the outcomes indicated that learners exposed to immediate low-stakes questioning exhibited notably superior summative quiz scores, increased page views, and enhanced participation in the course. Additionally, those who experienced immediate questioning demonstrated heightened levels of online engagement, self-regulation, and critical thinking. Moreover, our analysis delved into the intricate interplay between treatment conditions, learners’ self-regulation, critical thinking, and quiz grades through a multiple regression model. Notably, the interaction between those in the immediate questioning condition and self-regulation emerged as a significant factor, suggesting that the influence of immediate questioning on quiz grades varies based on learners’ self-regulation abilities. Collectively, these findings highlight the substantial positive effects of immediate questioning of online video lectures on both academic performance and cognitive skills within an online learning context. This discussion delves into the potential implications for institutions to continually refine their approach in order to effectively promote successful online science teaching and learning, drawing from the foundations of pedagogical learning experience design paradigms and the testing effect model.
Bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity in various parts of Morus alba L. Cv. ichinose: a comparative analysis
Authors: Altaf Lubna , Wani Shabir Ahmad , Hussain Peerzada Rashid , Suradkar Prashant , Baqual Mohmmad Farooq , Bhat Aabid Ahmad
Published: July 2024

Present investigation was undertaken to assess the composition of bioactive compounds within various parts of methanolic extracts from mulberry plants utilizing both High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and spectrophotometric methodologies. Furthermore, the antioxidant potential was evaluated through assays including 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP), β-carotene bleaching (BCBA), and Hydroxyl Radical Scavenging Activity (HRSA). This research incorporated the analysis of the fruit, root, shoot, and leaf of the mulberry (Morus alba L.) Cv. Ichinose. Findings from the investigation revealed that levels of total phenols (533.8 ± 15.6 mg/100 g) and flavonoids (232.3 ± 7.1 mg/100 g) were notably higher in fruit compared to root, while total ascorbic acid content (70.9 ± 3.1 mg/100 g) was significantly elevated in the leaf. The fruit exhibited a significantly higher concentration of total anthocyanins (142.5 ± 3.1 mg/100 g), whereas the leaf contained a substantial amount of total carotenoids (5.8 ± 0.3 mg/100 g). Predominant phenolic acids detected in mulberry included ferulic acid, m-coumaric acid, syringic acid, caffeic acid, chlorogenic acid, and gallic acid. Quercetin and isoquercetin were identified as the major flavonoids in mulberry fruits. In terms of anthocyanins, cyanidin-3-rutinoside (25.6 ± 2.3 mg/100 g) and cyanidin-3-glucoside (16.4 ± 2.1 mg/100 g) were the primary anthocyanins present in the fruit. The main carotenoid found in the leaf was beta-carotene, with levels reaching 2.1 ± 0.3 mg/100 g. Fruit displayed the highest antioxidant activity among all parts examined. Comparison of the EC50 values of fruit (EC50 = 174.2 ± 2.2 µg/mL), root (EC50 = 179.6 ± 2.3 µg/mL), and shoot (EC50 = 189.4 ± 2.1) suggested that these segments of the mulberry plant could potentially function as antioxidants and could exhibit a greater hydroxyl radical scavenging effect than standard antioxidants.
Prevalence and characterization of pain in radiation oncology: the PREDORT multicenter cross-sectional study
Authors: Arias Fernando , Zarandona Uxúe , Ibáñez-Beróiz Berta , Ibáñez Reyes , Campo Maider , Cacicedo Jon , García-Rueda Noelia , Baztán Beatriz , Villanueva Raquel , Fresán Marta , Redín Iñaki , Osés Ana T. , Hurtado Victoria , Villafranca Inés , Iancu Vasti , Almeida Pilar , Moreno Nieves , Cadena Soraya , Carruesco Irene , Allegue Marián , González Ana B. ,   PREDORT Collaborative Group
Published: July 2024

Background

Pain in cancer patients has enormous impact on their quality-of-life. Radiation therapy (RT) is a cornerstone in cancer treatment. The objective of the PREDORT study is to estimate the prevalence of pain in patients attending at Radiation Oncology (RO) Services.

Methods

A prospective, multicenter study was designed for patients treated at the RO Services of reference hospitals. Patients were seen in their initial Nursing consultation, during which key data was collected, including demographic and comorbidities data, medical history, and oncological and pain characteristics. The study has received approval from the Ethics Committee of Navarra, and all patients signed the Informed Consent.

Results

Of the 860 participating patients, 306 reported some type of pain, which implies a prevalence of 35.6%. Of them, 213 identified a cause of oncological origin. The proportion of pain was similar among sexes, but the proportion of non-cancer pain was higher among women (p < 0.05). Regarding pain intensity, the magnitude of breakthrough pain in patients with oncological pain is nearly 1 point greater than in patients with non-oncological pain (7.53 vs 6.81; p = 0.064). Cancer pain is more likely to be limiting of normal life than non-cancer pain (59% versus 38%, p < 0.001). Regarding analgesic treatment, only 60/306 patients (19.6%) were receiving strong opioids. There were 68 patients with pain without any treatment (22.2%).

Conclusions

The prevalence of pain in cancer patients referred to RO services is 35.6%, with the prevalence of exclusively oncological pain being 24.8%. Understanding and addressing oncological pain is essential to provide comprehensive care to patients.
A qualitative analysis of male actors in amateur pornography: motivations, implications and challenges
Authors: Yaakobovitch Tal , Bensimon Moshe , Idisis Yael
Published: July 2024

Amateur Pornography (AP) is a new phenomenon that emerged a few decades ago and is distinctly different from Professional Pornography (PP). Yet, academic literature that focuses on AP hardly exists. This qualitative study focuses on male AP actors’ lived experience, including their motivations, implications and ways of coping with its challenges. Semi-structured interviews with 27 male AP actors revealed five themes: (1)AP as a unique genrethat promotes diverse human body appearance, free choice, and profit as its secondary motive; (2)personal backgroundthat includes sexual abuse during childhood and unmet childhood emotional needs; (3)moral reasons for involvement in AP, including challenging sexual misperceptions, preventing sexual harmfulness, and promoting education for healthy sexuality and gender equality; (4)implications of involvement in AP, including positive implications such as increased self-esteem and gaining admiration and appreciation, as well as negative implications, such as impaired interpersonal relationships, social stigmatization, harassments and persecutions, and physical and psychological work injuries; and (5)ways of coping with sex work’s particular difficulties, such as the AP actors’ emotional reliance on their romantic partners, developing an artistic perspective, hiding one’s involvement in AP, and adopting a “work persona”. This research suggests that the participants’ involvement in AP was based on free choice and motivated by ideological reasons. Their strategies for coping with the negative implications of their involvement in AP reflect their sense of potency which is contrary to victimhood that is associated with impotency and helplessness.
Hydrops regression after vestibular denervation - longitudinal magnetic resonance study in patients with severe Meniere’s disease treated with vestibular neurectomy
Authors: Jasińska-Nowacka Agnieszka , Lachowska Magdalena , Wnuk Emilia , Niemczyk Kazimierz
Published: July 2024

Objectives

The aim was to evaluate endolymphatic hydrops in patients with severe Ménière’s disease (MD) before and after vestibular neurectomy to verify if vestibular denervation results in hydrops regression.

Methods

Magnetic resonance imaging was performed after intravenous gadolinium injection in twenty patients with unilateral definite MD before and after the vestibular neurectomy. Clinical symptoms and audiovestibular tests were evaluated. Follow-up intervals ranged from 18 to 35 months after the surgery.

Results

Endolymphatic hydrops were visualized in all patients in the preoperative scans. After the vestibular neurectomy, all patients presented a complete resolution of vertigo episodes. Regression of the endolymphatic hydrops was observed in 35% and 15% of cases analyzing cochlea and vestibule, respectively. In 71.43% of patients with utricular herniation into the lateral semicircular canal, withdrawal of the hernia was visualized. Asymmetrical contrast enhancement in the cochlea regressed in 17.64% of cases. Analyzing all the parameters collectively, in 60% of patients, partial regression of at least one of the radiological signs was confirmed in the follow-up examination. No progression of the endolymphatic hydrops was visualized after the surgery in either the cochlea or the vestibule.

Conclusions

Vestibular neurectomy is an effective treatment, eliminating vertigo attacks and improving the quality of life in patients with MD. Magnetic resonance imaging of the inner ear allows visualization of changes in endolymphatic hydrops degree after treatment. Regression of the endolymphatic hydrops after vestibular neurectomy suggests that vestibular denervation may effectively halt the progression of the endolymphatic space dilatation and result in hydrops regression.
Emotional Competences in Adolescents Exposed to Colombian Armed Conflict During Their Childhood
Authors: León-Rodríguez Diego Armando , Moncaleano Catalina
Published: July 2024

Objective: Analyse the mediation role of emotional competences on behavior problems in adolescents exposed to Armed-Conflict Childhood Adversities (ACCA). Method: Families with adolescent children who studied in three schools in the municipality of Soacha, Colombia, were invited to participate in the study. One hundred and sixty-one participants were selected and pooled into three groups according to their Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) scores: lower-ACE (LACE), higher-ACE (HACE), and ACCA using the Adverse Childhood Experiences Questionnaire for Adolescents (ACE-QA). The Emotion Recognition Task, the Empathy for Pain Task, and the Child Behavior Checklist assessed teenagers’ emotional functioning. Results: Teenagers exposed to ACCA more frequently experienced childhood adversities such as domestic violence, child abuse, and parental neglect. Moreover, these adolescents were less accurate in discriminating angry faces, reported higher control perception after social stressors, were more rigorous in punishing those who intentionally harmed others, and showed more internalizing behavior problems. In the mediational model, we found that: the control perception after social stress mediated the reduction of depressive symptoms in adolescents with ACCA history. Additionally, inaccuracy in perceiving angry faces and harsh punishment toward behaviors that intentionally harm others mediated the presence of thinking problems, anxiety, and rule-breaking behaviors. Conclusions: Colombian adolescents who experienced ACCA showed specific changes in their emotional competences, which mediate the parental report of behavioral problems. These results indicate the need for more focused interventions aimed at improving the emotional competences and mental health of adolescent victims of armed conflicts.
Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Incidence of Notifiable Infectious Diseases in China Based on SARIMA Models Between 2013 and 2021
Authors: Liu Jingwen , Zeng Wu , Zhuo Chao , Liu Yu , Zhu Lei , Zou Guanyang
Published: July 2024

Background

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Chinese government implemented nationwide public health interventions to control its spread. However, the impact of these measures on other infectious diseases remains unclear.

Methods

The incidence of three types of notifiable infectious diseases in China were analyzed between 2013 and 2021. The seasonal Mann-Kendall test and Mann-Kendall mutation test were employed to examine trends and mutations in the time series. Based on the counterfactual inference, historical incidence rates were employed to construct SARIMA models and predict incidence between January 2020 and December 2021. Differences between reported and predicted incidences during the pandemic were compared using the Mann-Whitney U test.

Results

Between 2013 and 2019, the incidence rate of three types of notifiable infectious diseases fluctuated between 494.05/100,000 and 550.62/100,000. No discernible trend was observed for types A and B infectious diseases (Z = −1.344, P = 0.18). A significant upward trend was observed for type C infectious diseases (Z = 2.56, P = 0.01). In 2020, the overall incidence rate of three types of notifiable infectious diseases decreased to 367.08/100,000. Compared to predicted values, the reported incidence of three types of infectious diseases was, on average, 30.05% lower in 2020 and 16.58% lower in 2021.

Conclusion

The public health interventions implemented during the pandemic had a positive consequence on the prevention and control of other infectious diseases, with a particularly notable effect on type C infectious diseases. Among the diseases with different transmission routes, respiratory diseases and gastrointestinal or enteroviral diseases decreased significantly.
High-strength fiber-reinforced concrete: assessing the impact of polyvinyl alcohol, glass, and polypropylene fibers on structural integrity and cost efficiency
Authors: Labaran Yahaya Hassan , Atmaca Nihat , Tan Mehmet , Atmaca Kemal
Published: July 2024

This study delves into the realm of high-strength fibre reinforced concrete (HSFRC), a pivotal material in contemporary construction, with a focus on elucidating its mechanical robustness and durability enhancements facilitated by fibre reinforcement. Previous research on HSFRC has provided mixed results and often neglected the cost implications. However, this study incorporates an array of fibres, encompassing steel, polypropylene, and polyvinyl alcohol, in varied proportions as well as their cost implications to provide a comprehensive evaluation of their impact. Through standardized tests such as compression strength, splitting-tensile strength, flexure strength, water permeability, and ultrasonic pulse velocity tests, alongside an exhaustive cost–benefit analysis, the study uncovers the substantial influence of fiber type and proportion on HSFRC 's properties. Noteworthy findings indicate that both fiber type and fiber ratio can change the strength and durability properties of concrete considerably, however, the use of 1.5% glass fiber gives the best results, in improving the properties of HSC. Moreover, despite the initial higher costs associated with HSFRC production, its protracted durability and diminished maintenance requisites yield substantial long-term economic advantages. Consequently, it is inferred that judicious selection of fiber types and proportions plays a pivotal role in maximizing the performance and cost-effectiveness of HSFRC, thereby advocating for its broader integration within the construction sector. Subsequent research endeavours should concentrate on fine tuning fiber content and types to further elevate HSFRC 's properties.
Experimental Constraints on the Origin of the Lunar High‐Ti Basalts
Authors: Haupt C. P. , Renggli C. J. , Rohrbach A. , Berndt J. , Klemme S.
Published: July 2024

High‐pressure and high‐temperature experiments were conducted to simulate melting of a hybrid cumulate lunar mantle. The experimental results show that intermediate to high‐Ti lunar pyroclastic glasses (>6 wt% TiO2) can be produced by partial melting of lunar cumulates. High‐Ti basalts are generated when the ilmenite/clinopyroxene ratios in the lunar mantle cumulates are between 1/1 and 4/1, depending on the degree of melting. The presence of an urKREEP component in the mantle cumulate strongly influences Al2O3/CaO of the melts. The experiments provide strong evidence for the model that the compositional diversity of lunar basalts is a consequence of a gravitational overturn of the lunar interior after the lunar magma ocean had solidified. Ilmenite/clinopyroxene in the cumulate mantle, which generates high‐Ti melts at partial melting, do not comprise the ratios in ilmenite‐bearing cumulates (IBC), which crystallized after ∼90% solidification of the lunar magma ocean and indicate local accumulation of ilmenite in the overturned lunar mantle. However, to fully match the natural composition of the most primitive lunar samples, secondary processes such as assimilation are still required.
Impact of Warming Trend in Western Equatorial Pacific on Modulating the Triple‐Dip La Niña and Its Associated Teleconnection in 2020–2022
Authors: Kao Pei‐ken , Huang An‐Yi , Hong Chi‐Cherng , Chiang Jun , Chang Chih‐Chun
Published: July 2024

In this study, we investigated the triple‐dip La Niña during 2020–2022 by comparing it with the previous (1973–1975 and 1998–2000) La Niña events. We found that the cold sea surface temperature (SST) in the eastern equatorial Pacific was moderate during the study period; however, the accompanying near‐surface easterly wind anomaly was unusually stronger during its lifecycle than during the previous two events. The maintenance of 2020–2022 La Niña appeared to be attributable to the strong zonal SST gradient. The strong zonal SST gradient resulted from the La‐Niña‐associated interannual SST anomaly, which was further enhanced by a warming trend in the western equatorial Pacific (165°E−160°W, 5°S–5°N) and the interdecadal oscillation of the Pacific‐Decadal‐Oscillation‐associated cold SST in the eastern tropical Pacific. The warming trend in the western equatorial Pacific, with a faster warming speed than global warming, also modified the La‐Niña‐associated Pacific–North American teleconnection to shifted eastward.
Incidence risk of hepatobiliary malignant neoplasms in the cohort of workers chronically exposed to ionizing radiation
Authors: Zhuntova Galina , Bannikova Maria , Azizova Tamara
Published: July 2024

The increased risk of liver malignancies was found in workers of the first Russian nuclear production facility, Mayak Production Association, who had been chronically exposed to gamma rays externally and to alpha particles internally due to plutonium inhalation. In the present study, we updated the radiogenic risk estimates of the hepatobiliary malignancies using the extended follow-up period (1948–2018) of the Mayak worker cohort and the improved «Mayak worker dosimetry system–2013». The cohort comprised 22,377 workers hired at the Mayak PA between 1948 and 1982. The analysis considered 62 liver malignancies (32 hepatocellular carcinomas, 13 intrahepatic cholangiocarcinomas, 16 angiosarcomas, and 1 anaplastic cancer) and 33 gallbladder adenocarcinomas. The analysis proved the positive significant association of the liver malignancy risk (the total of histological types, hepatocellular carcinoma) with the liver absorbed alpha dose from internal exposure. The excess relative risk per Gy (95% confidence interval) of alpha dose (the linear model) was 7.56 (3.44; 17.63) for the total of histological types and 3.85 (0.95; 13.30) for hepatocellular carcinoma. Indications of non-linearity were observed in the dose–response for internal exposure to alpha radiation. No impact of external gamma-ray exposure on the liver malignancy incidence was found. In the study cohort, the number of angiosarcomas among various types of liver malignancies was very high (25.8%), and most of these tumors (73.3%) were registered in individuals internally exposed to alpha radiation at doses ranging between 6.0 and 21.0 Gy. No association with chronic occupational radiation exposure was observed for the incidence of gallbladder malignancies.
Magnon gap excitations in van der Waals antiferromagnet MnPSe3
Authors: Jana Dipankar , Vaclavkova D. , Mohelsky I. , Kapuscinski P. , Cho C. W. , Breslavetz I. , Białek M. , Ansermet J.-Ph. , Piot B. A. , Orlita M. , Faugeras C. , Potemski M.
Published: July 2024

Magneto-spectroscopy methods have been employed to study the zero-wavevector magnon excitations in MnPSe3. Experiments carried out as a function of temperature and the applied magnetic field show that two low-energy magnon branches of MnPSe3 in its antiferromagnetic phase are gapped. The observation of two low-energy magnon gaps (at 1.70 ± 0.05 meV and 0.09 ± 0.01 meV) implies that MnPSe3 is a biaxial antiferromagnet. A relatively strong out-of-plane anisotropy imposes the spin alignment to be in-plane whereas the spin directionality within the plane is governed by a factor of 2.5 × 10−3 weaker in-plane anisotropy.
Optimizing growth and yield of striped catfish (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus) and quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa) in a biosaline integrated aquaculture–agriculture systems
Authors: Kimera Fahad , Mugwanya Muziri , Ahmed Walaa , Dawood Mahmoud A. O. , Sewilam Hani
Published: July 2024

Soil salinity and freshwater scarcity are among the major global threats to sustainable development owing to their adverse impacts on agricultural productivity especially in arid and semi-arid regions. There is a need to find sustainable alternatives such as salt-tolerant crops and fish to improve people’s livelihoods in marginal areas. This study aimed to maximize the growth and yield of striped catfish (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus) and quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa) cultivated under a biosaline integrated aquaculture–agriculture system. The study was laid in a randomized completely block design of three saline effluent treatments under three replicates: 5000 ppm (T1), 10,000 ppm (T2), 15,000 ppm (T3), and control (T0). Agro-morphological and physiological attributes of quinoa were measured. The crop yield in biomass and mineral element composition was also studied. Additionally, fish growth performance parameters such as feed intake and efficiency, growth, and survival rate were also calculated. Our results indicated that irrigating quinoa with saline aquaculture effluents above 10,000 ppm enhanced the plant growth, yield, and nutrient content of seeds. Furthermore, rearing striped catfish in saline water reaching up to 15,000 ppm did not have adverse impacts on the growth and survival of fish. Overall, integrating catfish and quinoa production under a salinity regime of 10,000 ppm could be a potential solution to ensuring alternative food sources in marginal areas.
Steady nutrient upwelling around a biological hotspot of the confluence between the quasi-stationary jet and the Oyashio in the western North Pacific
Authors: Yabe Itsuka , Ito Shin-ichi , Kakehi Shigeho , Nagai Takeyoshi , Nishioka Jun
Published: July 2024

The quasi-stationary jet, a branch of the Kuroshio Extension, transports warm saline water in the mixed water region of the western North Pacific. Around the subarctic front between the quasi-stationary jet and Oyashio and its downstream area is a biologically productive area including small pelagic fishes. However, how nutrient is supplied to the euphotic zone in this region remains elusive, especially into the quasi-stationary jet. Using high-resolution hydrography sections across the jet, we showed that Oyashio water isopycnally intrudes under the jet around 26.5–26.8 σθ and forms nutrient-rich intermediate water. Upwelling associated with ageostrophic secondary circulation across the front, caused by confluence, uplifts the intermediate water. A local nitrate maximum was also identified inside the jet by the hydrographic observation. Upwelling has been suggested as a precondition for nutrient supply from nutrient-rich intermediate water to the jet through water mixing which potentially sustains high biological production in the downstream.
The metabolites mainly composed of lipids in tongue coating are non-invasive potential biomarkers for chronic gastritis
Authors: You Zhiyuan , Lu Junhong , Xu Yifeng , Zhang Renling , Zhu Zhujing , Wang Yiqin , Hao Yiming
Published: July 2024

The changes in tongue coating metabolites in patients with chronic gastritis (CG) under different gastroscopy indicators were analyzed, and these metabolites were screened for potential non-invasive biomarkers to assist in the diagnosis of chronic gastritis. The technology of gas chromatography and liquid chromatography combined with mass spectrometry has been used to more comprehensively detect tongue coating metabolites of 350 CG patients. Spearman correlation analysis and random forest algorithm were used to screen metabolites that can serve as potential biomarkers. Compared with healthy individuals, CG group showed significant changes in the content of 101 metabolites, with an increase in the content of 54 metabolites and a decrease in the content of 47 metabolites. These differential metabolites are mainly composed of 47 lipids and lipid like substances. 1 metabolite was associated with bile reflux, 1 metabolite was associated with gastric mucosal erosion, 10 metabolites were associated with atrophy, 10 metabolites were associated with intestinal metaplasia, and 3 metabolites were associated with Helicobacter pylori infection. The ROC model composed of 5 metabolites can distinguish between CG group and healthy individuals, with an accuracy of 95.4%. The ROC model composed of 5,6-Dihydroxyindole can distinguish between chronic superficial gastritis group and chronic atrophic gastritis group, with an accuracy of 75.3%. The lipids and lipid like metabolites were the main abnormal metabolites in patients with chronic gastritis. It was worth noting that the content of Sphinganine 1-phase, 4-Ipomenol, and Nervonic acid in tongue coating increased, and the content of 1-Methyladenosine and 3-Hydroxycapric acid decreased, which helped to identify CG patients. The decrease in the content of 5,6-dihydroxyindole reminded patients that the development trend of CG was shifting from superficial to atrophic or even intestinal metaplasia. The detection of these metabolic markers of tongue coating was expected to be developed as a non-invasive and convenient technology in the future to assist us in monitoring and diagnosing the occurrence and development of CG.
Choroidal thinning in myopia is associated with axial elongation and severity of myopic maculopathy
Authors: Midorikawa Momoka , Mori Kiwako , Torii Hidemasa , Tomita Yohei , Zhang Yan , Tsubota Kazuo , Kurihara Toshihide , Negishi Kazuno
Published: July 2024

High myopia can lead to pathologic myopia and visual impairment, whereas its causes are unclear. We retrospectively researched high myopia cases from patient records to investigate the association between axial elongation and myopic maculopathy. Sixty-four eyes were examined in patients who visited the department between July 2017 and June 2018, had an axial length of 26 mm or more, underwent fundus photography, and had their axial length measured twice or more. The average axial length was 28.29 ± 1.69 mm (mean ± standard deviation). The average age was 58.3 ± 14.4 years old. Myopic maculopathy was categorized as mild (grades 0 and 1) and severe (grades 2, 3, and 4). The severe group had longer axial lengths than the mild group (P < 0.05). Moreover, the severe group exhibited thinner choroidal thickness than the mild group (P < 0.05). When subjects were grouped by axial elongation over median value within a year, the elongation group showed thinner central choroidal thickness than the non-elongation group (142.1 ± 91.9 vs. 82.9 ± 69.8, P < 0.05). In conclusion, in patients with high myopia, the severity of maculopathy correlated with choroidal thickness and axial length. Thinner choroidal thickness was associated with axial elongation based on the baseline axial length.
Early risk predictors of acute kidney injury and short-term survival during Impella support in cardiogenic shock
Authors: Patsalis Nikolaos , Kreutz Julian , Chatzis Giorgos , Syntila Styliani , Choukeir Maryana , Schieffer Bernhard , Markus Birgit
Published: July 2024

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is one of the most frequent and prognostic-relevant complications of cardiogenic shock (CS) complicating myocardial infarction (MI). Mechanical circulatory assist devices (MCS) like left ventricular Impella microaxial pump have increasingly been used in the last decade for stabilization of hemodynamics in those patients. Moreover, a protective effect of Impella on renal organ perfusion could recently be demonstrated. However, data identifying early risk predictors for developing AKI during Impella support in CS are rare. Data of hemodynamics and renal function from 50 Impella patients (January 2020 and February 2022) with MI-related CS (SCAI stage C), were retrospectively analyzed using e.g. multivariate logistic regression analysis as well as Kaplan–Meier curves and Cox regression analysis. 30 patients (60%) developed AKI. Central venous pressure as an indicator for venous congestion (OR 1.216, p = 0.02), GFR at admission indicating existing renal damage (OR 0.928, p = 0.002), and reduced central venous oxygen saturation (SvO2) as a marker for decreased tissue perfusion (OR 0.930, p = 0.029) were independently associated with developing an AKI. The 30-day mortality rate was significantly higher in patients with AKI stage 3 (Stage 1: 0%, Stage 2: 0%, Stage 3; 41.6%, p = 0.014) while AKI stage 3 (HR 0.095, p = 0.026) and norepinephrine dosage (HR 1.027, p = 0.008) were independent predictors for 30-day mortality. AKI as a complication of MI-related CS occurs frequently with a major impact on prognosis. Venous congestion, reduced tissue perfusion, and an already impaired renal function are independent predictors of AKI. Thus, timely diagnostics and a focused treatment of the identified factors could improve prognosis and outcome.
Operando Fe dissolution in Fe–N–C electrocatalysts during acidic oxygen reduction: impact of local pH change
Authors: Pedersen Angus , Kumar Kavita , Ku Yu-Ping , Martin Vincent , Dubau Laetitia , Santos Keyla Teixeira , Barrio Jesús , Saveleva Viktoriia A. , Glatzel Pieter , Paidi Vinod K. , Li Xiaoyan , Hutzler Andreas , Titirici Maria-Magdalena , Bonnefont Antoine , Cherevko Serhiy , Stephens Ifan E. L. , Maillard Frédéric
Published: July 2024

Fe cations produced during the reduction of O2 on Fe–N–C materials transform into Fe-oxides due to a local increase in pH.
Molecular characteristics of organic matter derived from sulfonated biochar
Authors: Jiang Zhengfeng , He Chen , Gao Fei , Shi Quan , Chen Yang , Yu Haimeng , Zhou Zhimao , Wang Ruoxin
Published: July 2024

The CHOS- and CHONS-containing formulae are predominant in SBC-DOM, while DOMs from RH, PYC, and HYC are dominated by CHO-containing formulae.
Structural and optical properties of phosphorous doped nanocrystalline silicon deposited using a VHF PECVD process for silicon heterojunction solar cells and optimization of a simple p–n junction cell using SCAP-1D tool
Authors: Gill Vijay Kumar , Juneja Sucheta , Dixit Shiv Kumar , Vashist Shruti , Kumar Sushil
Published: July 2024

n-Type silicon (Si) films have been synthesized using a PECVD method and the effect of phosphorus doping on the optical properties is analyzed.
Unveiling the potential of novel indol-3-yl-phenyl allylidene hydrazine carboximidamide derivatives as AChE/BACE 1 dual inhibitors: a combined in silico, synthesis and in vitro study
Authors: Sharma Amit , Rudrawar Santosh , Sharma Ankita , Bharate Sandip B. , Jadhav Hemant R.
Published: July 2024

Considering the failure of many enzyme inhibitors for Alzheimer's disease (AD), research is now focused on multi-target directed drug discovery.
Molecular dynamics simulation and experimental verification of the effects of vinyl silicone oil viscosity on the mechanical properties of silicone rubber foam
Authors: He Hongyu , Li Lulu , Ya Ruhan , Liu Hong , Luo Bin , Li Zhipeng , Tian Wenhuai
Published: July 2024

The molecular motion trajectories of silicone rubber foam (SRF) at various vinyl silicone oil viscosities were studied via molecular dynamics (MD) simulation from the perspective of all atomic molecules.
Recent advances of ruthenium-based materials for acidic oxygen evolution reaction: from catalyst design to proton exchange membrane water electrolysers
Authors: Wang Lin-Lin , Yu Zi-You , Lu Tong-Bu
Published: July 2024

In this review paper, we emphatically summarize the improvement strategies of Ru-based acidic OER catalysts and their application in PEMWEs. Further challenges and directions in the development of Ru-based catalysts are also speculated.
Direct construction of interconnected Si3N4 nanowire networks for enhancing the thermal conductivity and mechanical performance of flexible composite films
Authors: Li Mengyi , Wang Baokai , Yu Chang , Niu Mengyang , Yuan Kunjie , Xuan Weiwei , Yue Ming , Zhu Lifeng , Chen Kexin , Wang Qi
Published: July 2024

An innovative strategy for the direct construction of continuous thermally conductive networks composed of ultra-long Si3N4NWs is proposed.
Dissolution of the Ti porous transport layer in proton exchange membrane water electrolyzers
Authors: Cho Junsic , Kim Dong Hyun , Noh Min Wook , Kim Haesol , Oh Hong-Gyun , Lee Pilyoung , Yoon Soobin , Won Wangyun , Park Young-June , Lee Ung , Choi Chang Hyuck
Published: July 2024

Online monitoring of titanium dissolution during operation to understand the degradation pathway of the porous transport layer in water electrolyzers.
Bulk-independent surface oxide composition controls the electrochemical performance of high-entropy alloys
Authors: Kogler Matthias , Olgiati Matteo , Ostermann Markus , Rachle Philipp , Gahlawat Soniya , Valtiner Markus , Pichler Christian M.
Published: July 2024

Low-energy ion scattering revealed the true reactive surface composition of high-entropy alloys, differing significantly from the bulk. No significant enhancement in OER performance was observed with high-entropy alloying compared to simpler alloys.
Sustainable, aqueous exfoliation of MoS2via bio-inspired avenues
Authors: Pham Le Nhan , Perdomo Yuliana , Slocik Joseph M. , Rao Rahul , Walsh Tiffany R. , Knecht Marc R.
Published: July 2024

Two dimensional (2D) nanosheets of MoS2 were succesfully produced by an exfoliation process in aqueous media with the support from peptides and sonication.
Tunable ratiometric temperature sensors based on a Zn-MOF material incorporating luminescent polyoxometalates and carbon dots
Authors: Viravaux Cédric , Mialane Pierre , Dolbecq Anne , Ramsahye Naseem , Mellot-Draznieks Caroline , Serier-Brault Hélène , Oms Olivier
Published: July 2024

Incorporation of Eu polyoxometalates and carbon dots into a Zn-MOF matrix represents an efficient strategy to build luminescent ratiometric thermometers.