bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Scanning Strategy on Surface Roughness of Directed Energy Deposited Inconel 718 Alloy
Authors: Maurya Ajay Kumar , Kumar Amit , Saini Surendra Kumar , Gupta Ravi Kumar
Published: March 2024

The additive manufacturing method based on powder feed type laser Directed Energy Deposition (DED) is projected to be able to create objects with intricate structures. The intricate thermal history that occurs during DED causes variations in the top surface roughness, which is an important quality index for DED and has a significant impact on the lifespan of the samples. Surface quality is always desirable, mostly in the case of dynamic loading applications. This article presents a methodical investigation into the top surface roughness of the Inconel 718 alloy during various scanning strategies in the DED. This alloy is utilized extensively in the aerospace, automotive, and military industries. Multilayer cuboid samples are fabricated using four scanning strategies. Using different scan strategy, no significant changes in pore size and amount of porosity was observed, but significant changes were observed for the surface quality of printed Inconel alloy.
A Numerical Study on Droplet Evaporation using Mass and Heat Transfer Approach
Authors: K. Hima Teja  , Pal Manas Kumar
Published: March 2024

Liquid fuel is injected into many combustion devices like engines, boilers, and gas turbines where it evaporates, mixes with air, and finally burns. The combustion process influences by evaporation and corresponding air-fuel mixing. Hence, the evaporation study of the fuel droplets is important in different thermodynamic conditions. In the present paper, fuel droplet evaporation has been numerically studied by two different approaches i.e., mass transfer and heat transfer. Multiple case studies have been conducted by varying the droplet surface temperature, its initial diameter, and the temperature of ambiance to understand the influence of each parameter on the evaporation process by the two different concepts. Transfer numbers (B), evaporation constants (K), and droplet lifetime are obtained through both heat and mass transfer models. These observations are highly helpful to understand the droplet evaporation process and comparing the two different approaches to droplet evaporation modeling.
Response Surface Methodology-based Optimization of Variable Compression Ratio Diesel Engine Characteristics with Jatropha Biodiesel
Authors: Padmanabha H. S. Anantha , Mohanty Dillip Kumar
Published: March 2024

The use of biodiesels as a potential alternative to fossil fuels has significantly increased in the past few decades owing to their clean and renewable nature. The present work has considered jatropha oil as the feedstock for biodiesel due to its properties similar to that of petroleum diesel, large-scale availability, and improved engine characteristics. The brake thermal efficiency and brake-specific fuel consumption have been analyzed for estimating the engine performance while the emissions of hydrocarbon, carbon monoxide, and oxides of nitrogen have been considered for the exhaust emission. Further, the response surface methodology has been adopted for the optimization of the different engine characteristics. The response surface methodology has identified optimal engine characteristics of a variable ratio compression ignition engine for biodiesel with 10% jatropha oil methyl ester at 18:1 compression ratio and 50% engine load. The desired factor of 0.615 and inaccuracy less than 5% of the present analysis can be considered as suitable and acceptable for the optimal parameters.
Application of Metal Oxide in Litho-Vanadium Glasses Containing Non-Magnetic Metal Ions: Physical and Optical Properties Analysis
Authors: . Basappa , Madhavi Karanam , Gowda V. C. Veeranna , Hanumantharaju N.
Published: March 2024

Sodium-modified litho-vanadium glasses containing non-magnetic Aluminium ions of composition 50Li2CO3 - (30-X) Na2 CO3- 20V2O5 -xAl2O3 (30 ≤ x ≥ 5) (LNVA) glasses were prepared by melt quenching technique. The density of the glass samples was measured and found to increase with the Aluminium content of the glass matrix. The measured values of refractive index and polaron radius of the glass network show opposite behaviour with an increase of Aluminium content. Through band gap energy and refractive index, Oxide ion polarizability and electronic polarizability were determined by using the Lorentz-Lorenz equation. The value of Oxide ion polarizability and electronic polarizability is found to be decreased with decreasing band gap energy and increasing refractive index. The value of optical basicity was measured using electronic polarizability and is found to be decreased with decreasing inter-nuclear distance. The band gap energy values of the glass network were found to decrease from 3.241 to 2.134 eV. The metallisation criterion of the glass material was calculated and found to decrease with Aluminium content.
The Development of Ackerman Steering System For 1/10th Scale Autonomous Mining Shuttle Design
Authors: Hegde Seema B. , Akash B. U. , Skanda M. P. , Makam Vishwa , Veerabhadraiah H. M.
Published: March 2024

The usage of Autonomous mining vehicles at mining sites leads to remarkable improvement in the mining industry with efficient truck hauling, safety, and driving assistance. The steering mechanism is one major component of mining shuttle anatomy design. A significant share of failure in safety measures of the mining shuttle is due to steering imbalance. Steering stability is one of the key components of any mining truck design specifically in the recent emerging technology of intelligent transportation systems such as autonomous truck haul. The earlier steering mechanisms for the heavy truck such as the Davis steering mechanism and other steering mechanisms available in both sliding and turning pairs will be present in the front wheel axle which has less stability of tires in a curved path. To overcome the problem, this paper proposes the design of an enhanced Ackermann steering system to meet the stability, control, and other steering capability of mining trucks by turning the front wheels at different angles. This paper also discusses the methodology to implement the designed principles using 1/10th scale of an original vehicle prototype built using STM 32 microcontroller by 3D printing, whose movement is controlled with Remote Control (RC). Hence the designed prototype model prototype with its innovative gear system provides mobility to the mining shuttle without loss in energy due to friction leading to fuel efficient, safe, stable intelligent transport system with green technology.
Application and Challenges of Machine Learning Techniques in Mining Engineering and Material Science
Authors: Shetty Vidyasagar , Shabari Shedthi B. , Shashishekar C.
Published: March 2024

The ultimate objective of modern engineering applications in mining and material science is to develop good quality novel materials with desirable qualities. Machine Learning (ML) is used in the mining industry to provide solutions to complex problems of the mining industry and improve the efficiency of the overall system. ML methods are increasingly being used by materials scientists to uncover hidden trends in data and generate predictions. Furthermore, data centric techniques can provide useful insights into the basic processes that influence material behaviour while simultaneously reducing human labour in large data processing. The ability of persons to find new materials and infer complex relationships is important for the development of new materials. Large amounts of machine-readable data must be available to use statistical methodologies to speed materials research. In mining engineering, ML can be used for analyzing geographical data, assessing the risk of rock fall, predicting equipment failures and impact of mining activities on the environment etc. Material science data may be used in a variety of ways, including property prediction, the search for new materials and discovering synthesis methods. Selecting proper machine learning techniques to provide solutions is very important and that is discussed here. The purposes of this paper are to provide a comprehensive list of different ML techniques which are applied for the mining and material science domain.
Characterization of Polymer Composite Reinforced With Desmostachya Bipinnata Natural Fibers of 600 Micron Size
Authors: Nachiketh Raj M. , Nithish G. L. , Dhanush Bharadwaj B. A. , Kiran Aithal S. , Chethan K. S. , Ramesh Babu N. , Manjunath H. N. , Jagadeeswaran N.
Published: March 2024

Desmostachya bipinnata (Dharbe grass) has been used as a sacred plant in many of the rituals in India. A composite was prepared using hand layup using Desmostachya bipinnata particle with mesh size of 600microns. The specimens were evaluated for tensile, electromagnetic shielding effectiveness. The specimens were also investigated using scanning electron microscope. It is observed that the composite yielded better results in terms of tensile strength, but the results obtained for electromagnetic shielding effectiveness were not encouraging. The insufficient electromagnetic shielding effectiveness might be attributed to the size, shape, or distribution of the Desmostachya bipinnata particles within the composite.
Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma of The Tonsil: Clinical Features, Treatment Response and Prognosis
Authors: KÖSEOĞLU Fatoş Dilan , DEMİR Derya , ÇINAR Ezgi , SOYER Nur , VURAL Filiz , TÖBÜ Mahmut , ŞAHİN Fahri , ÖZSAN Nazan , HEKİMGİL Mine , SAYDAM Güray
Published: March 2024

Aim: Tonsillar lymphomas, specifically non-Hodgkin lymphomas in extranodal regions, are a significant subset of malignancies in the head and neck. Understanding the clinical and radiological characteristics of these lymphomas is pivotal for augmenting current knowledge and refining treatment approaches, particularly considering the notable incidence and distinctive pathophysiology of these malignancies.
Materials and Methods: A retrospective study encompassing 45 patients diagnosed with tonsillar lymphoma across two university hospitals was undertaken. Comprehensive data, including demographics, symptoms, clinical and pathological findings, and treatment details, were analyzed. Various statistical tests explored factors influencing treatment responses and prognosis.
Results: Patients predominantly presented with dysphonia, dysphagia, and dyspnea, alongside a notable prevalence of comorbidities such as hypertension and diabetes mellitus. Diagnosis largely leaned on excisional biopsy, revealing diffuse large B-cell lymphoma as the most common subtype. Treatment was majorly initiated with R-CHOP, witnessing an encouraging initial response. A mean time to progression was 13 months, with a median progression-free survival of 10 months and median overall survival of 55.8 months. Variables such as age, Ann Arbor stage, lymphoma subtype, R-IPI scores, double expression status, and presence of objective response to first line treatment status evidently influenced progression-free survival and overall survival, albeit none was an independent factor in multivariate analysis.
Conclusion: The findings underscore the importance of comprehensive multi-faceted analyses in understanding tonsillar lymphomas. Although there was no independent risk factor for survival analyses, variables such as age, Ann Arbor stage, lymphoma subtype, R-IPI scores, double expression status, and presence of objective response to first line treatment were instrumental in influencing progression-free survival and overall survival, offering valuable insights for future research and potential tailoring of treatment approaches.
İzmir Polen Alerji Bülteni Karar Destek Sisteminin Kullanıcılar Üzerindeki Etkisinin Değerlendirilmesi
Authors: ÖZGÜR Su , YÖNYÜL Burak , UĞUZ Ulaş , GÜVENSEN Aykut , GÖKSEL Tuncay , ÖZLEM Göksel
Published: March 2024

Amaç: Alerjik hastalıklar hala dünyadaki en çok araştırılan hastalık gruplarındandır. Patogenez, risk faktörleri ve tedavi stratejileri hakkındaki bilgilerimize rağmen, alerjik hastalıkların prevalansının artması önlenememiştir. İnsanların polen ve alerji ilişkisi konularında bilgilenmelerini sağlamak ve alerjik hastalıklara sahip bireylerin günün riskli saatlerinde polene maruziyet etkilenimlerinin azaltılması amacıyla hazırlanan “İzmir Polen Alerji Bülteni Karar Destek Sistemi”nin kullanıcılar üzerindeki etkisini değerlendirmek amaçlanmıştır.
Gereç ve Yöntem: Çalışmamızda Şubat 2021-Ağustos 2023 tarihleri arasında https://polenalerji.ege.edu.tr/ adresindeki İzmir İzmir Polen Alerji Bülteni Anketini dolduran 1261 kişinin sonuçları değerlendirilmiştir. Verilere ait değerlendirmeler sayı, yüzde değerleriyle sunulmuş ve karegorik veriler ki kare analiziyle değerlendirilmiştir.
Bulgular: Bülteni takip eden Bireylerin %49,4’ü anketi yanıtlamıştır. Bu bireylerin %83,8’inin (1057) alerjisi, %82,1’inin (1027) polen alerjisi bulunmaktadır. Ankete katılanların %63,9’u (791) polene maruz kalma riski ile ilgili olarak web sitemizi takip ettiğini bildirmiştir. Bireylerin %59,1’i (791) günlük yaşam faaliyetlerini planlarken “İzmir Polen Alerji Bülteni”ndeki uyarıları dikkate almaktadır. İzmir Polen Alerji Bülteni”ndeki uyarılar bireylerin %49,2’sinin (603) alerji şikâyetlerinizde azalma meydana getirmiştir. İnternet sitemizi çevrenizdekilere tavsiye edeceğini bildiren 1114 (%90,4) birey bulunmaktadır. Katılımcıların %85,7’si (1053) https://polenalerji.ege.edu.tr linki ile ulaşılabilen polen alerji bülteninden memnun olduğunu bildirmiştir.
Sonuç: Astım, alerjik rinit gibi polene maruziyette alevlenmelerin ortaya çıkabildiği hastalıklarda bireylerin kendilerini polen maruziyetinden korumaları önemlidir. Polen maruziyeti arttığında sağlık kurumlarına yapılan başvuruların da pozitif şekilde artması beklenmektedir. İzmir Polen Alerji Bülteni Karar Destek Sistemi çıktıları göz önüne alındığında hastalara ait korunma desteğinin sağlanabileceği ve sağlık sistemine binen yükün azaltılabileceği görülmüştür.
Determinants of Cesarean Section Decision in Indonesia: A Systematic Review
Authors: Devy Shrimarti Rukmini , Diah Indriani  , Budi Prasetyo  , Hari Basuki Notobroto  , Lutfi Agus Salim  , Muhammad Ardian Cahya Laksana  , Nafiatus Sintya Deviatin
Published: March 2024

Background: Cesarean section delivery should be chosen if there are certain medical indications. However, the trend of childbirth by cesarean section shows a high increase in Indonesia. Complications of childbirth after cesarean section are higher compared to normal childbirth, this condition can endanger the health and safety of the mother and baby. Aims: to determine the determinants of cesarean section decisions in Indonesia. Method: this study is a systematic review using PRISMA, a database search via Google Scholar, PubMed, and ScienceDirect, keywords are adjusted to the topic discussed. Results: 13 articles were reviewed that were relevant to the research topic. Determinants of cesarean section decisions are medical indication including age, parity, pregnancy complications (hypertension and pre-eclampsia), history of delivery (cesarean section history), and labor complications (premature rupture of membranes and fetal distress) and by choice (own request) including residence in urban areas and employment. Conclusion: Interventions such as education, counseling, and others using appropriate communication, information, and education media, cooperation, and collaboration with academics and nongovernment organizations are needed in carrying out interventions.
L’agriculture biologique et les produits animaux bio en France : après l’essor, le choc de l’inflation
Authors: CHATELLIER Vincent
Published: March 2024

Basé sur une valorisation de données statistiques issues de différentes organisations compétentes, cet article discute, dans un premier temps, de l’évolution des ventes de produits alimentaires issus de l’agriculture biologique et du poids que celles-ci représentent dans le marché alimentaire global. En représentant 6,3 % du marché alimentaire français en 2021 contre 3,2 % en 2015, les produits bio ont bénéficié d’une forte croissance au cours des années récentes. Depuis 2021, cependant, le marché fait face à de nombreuses difficultés, en raison principalement de l’inflation qui amène les consommateurs à faire de nouveaux arbitrages dans leurs actes d’achat. Dans un second temps, cet article se focalise sur les produits animaux bio français, lesquels représentent un peu moins du quart des achats alimentaires bio en 2021. Les produits animaux bio sont commercialisés pour une grande part par le canal de la grande distribution et sont peu concernés par les échanges extérieurs. Ainsi contrairement à d’autres filières bio (dont les fruits et légumes), la consommation intérieure demeure quasi exclusivement assurée par des produits issus du marché national. Si la consommation de produits animaux bio s’est développée, du moins jusqu’à une période très récente (2021), une forte concurrence existe cependant avec les autres signes et mentions de qualité (Label Rouge, AOP, IGP…). En France, la part du bio dans la production agricole totale (exprimée en tonnage) augmente, mais elle varie selon les filières. Les œufs occupent le premier rang sur ce critère (15,4 % de la production nationale), devant les produits laitiers (5,2 % de la collecte de lait de vache) et, plus loin derrière, les viandes, notamment celles de porc et de volailles (entre 1 et 2 % des abattages).
Hubungan antara Pengambilan Keputusan dengan Perilaku Kontraproduktif Guru SMP Negeri di Kota Bekasi
Authors: Saputra Bella Meilia , Deswary Dwi , Sari Eliana
Published: March 2024

This study aims to determine the relationship between decision making and counterproductive behavior Junior High School teacher in Bekasi. The method used is survey method with the correlational studies and quantitative approaches. Samples were as many as 94 teachers. Sampling using simple random sampling by the formula Slovin and data collection using the questionnaires. From the results of the hypothesis testing, obtained tcount equal to 2,10, which means bigger than ttable 1,986. Thus, the alternative hypothesis (Ha) are accepted positively. Of the coefficient of determination, decisionmaking contributed 4.57% to the counterproductive behavior Junior High School teacher in Bekasi. Based on the results of the survey results revealed that more favorable decision, the lower the level of counterproductive behavior Junior High School teacher in Bekasi.
Pengaruh Kepemimpinan Instruksional dan Keadilan Prosedural Terhadap Citizenship Behavior (CB)
Authors: Maftuhah Aufa , Putrawan I Made , Suryadi Suryadi
Published: March 2024

This study aims to determine the effect of instructional leadership and procedural justice on citizenship behavior. The study was conducted at Lebak vocational high school by using a survey method with path analysis applied in testing hypothesis and 118 samples selected by simple random sampling. The finding of the research are. (1) Instructional leadership has a direct positive effect on procedural justice. (2) Procedural justice has a direct positive effect on citizenship behavior. (3) Instructional leadership has a direct positive effect on citizenship behavior, (4) Instructional leadership has a indirect effect on citizenship behavior through procedural justice. Based on the findings in this study, it could be concluded that the influence of the instructional leadership and procedural justice are the important factors to influence teacher citizenship  behavior.
MENINGKATKAN KARAKTER SELF LEADERSHIP MELALUI PENDEKATAN EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING PESERTA DIDIK KELAS X SMA NEGERI 76 JAKARTA
Authors: Sukarmo Sukarmo
Published: March 2024

The purpose of this research is to increase the character of self leadership through experiential learning approach in students of X SMA Negeri 76 Jakarta. The subjects of the study were students of class X SMA Negeri 76 Jakarta who had the character of a low self leadership category that was taken as many as 30 learners. The research method used is research counseling action. The design and model of the research used are model Kemmis and Mc. Taggart consisting of 3 cycles. The research instruments used are self-leadership character tests, self assessment scales, and observation sheets. The results of the study obtained the data of the test results increased self-leadership between pretests and posttest which measures the level of understanding and application of the character self leadership students before the action is given acquired average score of 54.33 with a percentage of 67.92%, increased after action is administered through a classical tutoring service with experiential learning approach with an average obtained score of 64.10 with a percentage of 80.13%. The results of the self-leadership character questionnaire are known that aspects of self awareness, self-directed aspects, self-management aspects, and self-accomplishment aspects of learners experience A fairly positive improvement. The conclusion of this research is through a guidance service with experiential learning approaches can improve the character self-leadership of the students X grade SMA Negeri 76 Jakarta.
Luminous Chromatics: Unveiling the Synergy of Light and Color in Visual Perception
Authors: E.M Muxamadiyev , X.B Xasanova
Published: March 2024

This scientific inquiry delves into the symbiotic relationship between light and color within the realm of design, elucidating their profound impact on visual perception. Employing a qualitative analysis of the interplay between these fundamental elements, our study reveals the unmistakable vibrancy and ubiquitous presence of light and color across all surfaces. The consistent presence of color not only illuminates but also augments the visibility of surrounding elements, thereby endowing a defining characteristic that facilitates color perception in the presence of light. Our findings underscore the intricate dynamics between light and color, opening avenues for further exploration in the nuanced field of visual aesthetics and design principles.
Highlights:

Harmony in Design: Investigates the interplay between light and color, emphasizing their harmonious integration in design aesthetics.

Vibrant Visual Presence: Examines the unequivocal and vibrant manifestation of light and color across all surfaces, contributing to a visually compelling environment.

Enhanced Visibility: Highlights the role of color in consistently illuminating and enhancing visibility, providing a crucial characteristic for color perception in the presence of light.

Keywords: Light, Color, Design, Visual Perception, Synergy
The Consequence Of Investment Opportunity Set In Strengthening Investment Policy On Profitability In Indonesia
Authors: Pamungkas Wihandaru Sotya
Published: March 2024

This study investigates the empirical impact of investment policy components—investment cash flow, investment opportunity set (IOS), IOS strengthening investment policy, institutional ownership, and firm size—on the profitability of manufacturing companies that went public before 2015. Analyzing audited financial statements from 2015 to 2020, our results indicate that investment cash flows exhibit no significant influence on profitability. Conversely, the IOS demonstrates a positive effect, further strengthened by its interaction with investment cash flow. Institutional ownership emerges as a positive contributor, along with firm size, both positively impacting profitability. This underscores the crucial role of identifying strategic investment opportunities in enhancing corporate profitability. These findings provide valuable insights for firms seeking to optimize their investment policies and augment financial performance.
Highlights:

Strategic Investment Opportunities: Emphasizes the pivotal role of identifying and leveraging investment opportunities to enhance corporate profitability.

IOS Interaction and Strengthening: Highlights the positive impact of Investment Opportunity Set (IOS) on profitability, further strengthened by its interaction with investment cash flow.

Institutional Ownership and Firm Size Influence: Underscores the positive influences of institutional ownership and firm size on corporate profitability, providing actionable insights for optimizing investment policies.

Keywords: Investment Policy, Opportunity Set, Cash Flow, Institutional Ownership, Firm Size
Urbanization Trends and Challenges: A Case Study in the Asan Watershed of Uttarakhand on Urban Growth Patterns and Sustainable Land Use Planning
Authors: Sharma Ankita , Krishan Radha , Nikam Bhaskar R. , Bagri Dhirendra Singh
Published: March 2024

Historical evidence suggests that urbanization is an inevitable and universal process that outpaces the average population growth rate. The case study focuses on the Asan watershed of Uttarakhand, one of India's highly urbanized states, which exemplifies rapid urban growth. The paper discusses the significance of raising urban diameter, using advanced technologies like RS & GIS based on specific criteria like decadal Census statistics and Land cover dynamics. It highlights the importance of accurate urban mapping and monitoring, which are vital for effective urban planning. It also includes a comparative analysis of population statistics for India and its selective regions. The study requires the creation of decadal LULC maps, areal analysis, accuracy assessment, and the generation of urban growth pattern maps along with the direction of growth expansion. The LULC changes exert substantial impacts on natural resources, socioeconomic factors, and environmental hydrological processes. The analysis identifies a concerning trend of urban expansion in the area quadrupled nearly four decades with dominant direction of urban expansion overtime. Overall, valuable insights are provided into changing landscapes and urbanization patterns, stressing the need for sustainable land use planning and environmental conservation to tackle challenges posed by rapid urban growth and its impact on natural resources.
Prebiotic Asymmetric Synthesis of Ribose by CO2 Reduction in Hydrodynamic Cavitation with Vortex
Authors: Fang Yuxi , Ding Wei , Ying Diwen , Zhang Wendi , Jia Jinping
Published: March 2024

Prebiotic synthesis is a critical aspect in origin of life. Especially, D-ribose plays a fundamental role in the RNA world theory as the exclusive sugar for RNA1-3. CO2 is known to be predominant in the primitive atmosphere4-6. However, prebiotic synthesis of ribose from CO2 has never been reported, leaving origin of D-ribose as an unsolved challenge. Herein, we propose the formation of D-ribose by hydrodynamic cavitation with vortex in the prebiotic world, which was supported by the formation of enantiomeric ribose under the simulated prebiotic condition in the opposite vortices of a Venturi reactor equipped with antipodal oblique blades. Various sugars with total concentration of ~2.46 μM were achieved in the presence of Ca2+, in which ribose is the main component, with an enantiomeric excess (ee) in the range of 30.2-40.2%. Formaldehyde and CH2OH· were formed from free radical species, such as CO·, H· and OH·, generated from CO2 by high temperature and high pressure in hydrodynamic cavitation. Ribose was predicted to be formed via Ca2+ mediated formose autocatalysis driven by the successive addition of CH2OH· free radicals starting from formaldehyde. Vortex is speculated to be initiating symmetry breaking of ribose due to different yield of each enantiomer, induced by geometric coefficient interaction between the chiral intermediate and vortex. Our findings provide a prevalent possibility for the formation of D-ribose by cavitation with specific vortex in the prebiotic ocean, which implies hydrodynamic cavitation would be one of the important driving forces for origin of life.
Could placebo or nocebo effect influence implicit motor learning?
Authors: Avanzino Laura , Cosentino Carola , Mezzarobba Susanna , Bonassi Gaia , Putzolu Martina , Ravizzotti Elisa , Botta Alessandro , Terranova Sara , Cecchella Margherita , Fiorio Mirta , Pelosin Elisa
Published: March 2024

This study investigates the impact of placebo and nocebo effects on implicit motor learning and explores associated neurophysiological changes in the primary motor cortex (M1), using a neuromodulation technique (PAS protocol).
Participants performed a probabilistic Serial Reaction Time Task (SRTT), which involved a numerical sequence created according to statistical regularities (SOC1, probable sequence), interspersed with a confounding sequence (SOC2), under three conditions: control (no manipulation), placebo (believing sham tDCS enhances performance), and nocebo (believing the opposite). Behavioral results show that the magnitude (i.e., ∆ Reaction Time) of implicit learning was greater when nocebo manipulations was applied compared to control and placebo conditions. Neurophysiological measures revealed that only nocebo manipulation that was able to modulate cortical activity by influencing LTP-like plasticity in M1. This paradoxical effect may stem from the suggestion that a negative effect, induced by nocebo manipulation, may have triggered compensatory mechanisms, ultimately improving performance.
The impacts of polycrises on global grain availability and prices
Authors: Verschuur Jasper , Murgatroyd Anna , Vittis Yiorgos , Mosnier Aline , Obersteiner Michael , Godfray Charles , Hall Jim
Published: March 2024

Recent climatic events and conflict have heightened concern about the vulnerability of the global food system to systemic shocks. Yet it remains unclear what shocks are most pressing for a country’s food supply, and whether trade can mediate or amplify negative impacts. Here, using a newly developed global bilateral trade model for 177 countries and four major staple crops (maize, wheat, rice, soybean), we simulate the demand, price and trade impacts of the (i) Ukraine war, (ii) an energy price shock, (iii) imposed trade bans, and (iv) a compound (polycrisis) shock, on top of 54 years of crop production variability. The compound shock results in a 23 – 52% increase in consumer prices and, consequently, 7.3 – 16.5% loss to consumers. While the energy price shock is found to be the most important driver of the compound food shock across most regions and crops, the Ukraine war dominates impacts in Eastern Europe and Central Asia. Trade bans can affect certain regions disproportionately, particularly for Sub-Saharan Africa (rice) and Central Asia (rice, wheat). We find that, in many instances, trade adjustments can help cope with both supply and price shocks, although limits to the reliance on trade are found for tail risk events. In the compound shock event, the total negative consumer losses can be over USD 600 million for a single year, affecting virtually all countries simultaneously. Managing the risks of such shocks requires a reformed and better coordinated mix of national agricultural and fiscal policies as well as international trade regulations.
Proteome profiling of intestinal cultures treated with Bacteroides fragilis vesicles revealed new mechanisms of anti-inflammatory response
Authors: Shagaleeva Olga , Pobeguts Olga , Kashatnikova Daria , Kardonsky Dmitry , Vorobeva Elizaveta , Silantiev Artemiy , Efimov Boris , Matyushkina Daria , Vanyushkina Anna , Zakharzhevskaya Natalya
Published: March 2024

The gut is under complex attack by a large number of biologically active molecules, including bacterial enzymes, metabolites, nucleic acids and immuno-active compounds. Most of these components are presented in outer membrane vesicles (OMVs), which are actively produced by all bacterial types. Bacteroides fragilis, as a member of the gut microbiota, has unique OMV’s components that are known to have both pathogenic and positive immunomodulatory properties. Bacteroides fragilis OMVs are well characterized by proteomic and metabolomic methods and therefore represent a suitable comprehensive framework for assessing the overall molecular impact of bacterial OMVs on intestinal cultures. We studied proteomic changes in colon (HT-29) and rectal (SW837) adenocarcinoma cell lines treated with OMVs isolated from enterotoxigenic Bacteroides fragilis BOB25 strain (ETBF) and non-toxigenic Bacteroides fragilis JIM10 strain (NTBF). Cell lines were incubated with ETBF and NTBF OMVs for three and five hours and then the total proteome of the cell lines was isolated and annotated using 2D electrophoresis with the following mass spectrometric identification of proteomic differences. As a result, the SW837 cell line showed a more significant range of proteome differences than the HT-29 cell line, including not only up and down regulated proteins involved in cytoskeletal reorganization and cell adhesion, but also proteins involved in cell proliferation and pro-inflammatory response. We found that the SW837 cell line treated with NTBF OMVs secrete IL18, that plays a profound role in the initiation phase of an immune response by recruiting dendritic cells (DCs). ETBF OMVs demonstrated the simultaneous coexistence of cell proliferation and apoptosis promoting factors. We hypothesize that both types of OMVs may contribute to the anti-inflammatory effects, as the same proteins were found to be affected in cell lines treated with ETBF and NTBF OMVs. However, the presence of a toxin in ETBF OMV may delay anti-inflammatory activity until the cell has fully repaired the damaged cytoskeleton.
Analysis of Prognostic Factors and Establishment of a Nomogram to Predict Risk for COVID-19 Convalescent Patients Based on Metabolomic and Lipidomic
Authors: Wang Anzhu , Yang Yingying , Peng Miao , Tian Chuanxi , Lv Yi , Huang Jingjing , Ke Jingwen , Ouyang Kani , Wang Jingzhi , Shao Zuoyu , Xiao Mingzhong , Li Xiaodong , Zhang Qing , Zhao Linhua , Tong Xiaolin
Published: March 2024

Ethnopharmacological relevance:
Qimai Feiluoping Mixture (QM) is a traditional Chinese herbal formulation that has demonstrated efficacy in improving both clinical symptoms and radiological indications of pulmonary fibrosis in patients convalescing from Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19).
Aim of the study:
To analyze factors associated with the prognosis of COVID-19 patients. It seeks to develop and validate a nomogram based on metabolomic and lipidomic for predicting improvements in lung imaging in COVID-19 patients. Additionally, the study evaluates the clinical application value of this nomogram.
Methods and materials:
A retrospective analysis was conducted on the clinical data of COVID-19 recovery patients from January 2020 to April 2022. Non-targeted metabolomic and lipidomic plasma analysis of the patients were performed using LC-MS and normal phase (NP)-HPLC coupled with mass spectrometry. Patients were divided into training and validation sets in a 7:3 ratio based on their omics data. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify independent risk factors associated with the recovery of lung imaging. Based on these factors, a nomogram prediction model was developed. The efficacy of the model was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and calibration curves. In addition, decision curve analysis (DCA) was performed to assess the performance of the predictive model in clinical applications.
Results
The use of QM was found to be associated with the recovery of lung imaging in COVID-19 patients (P < 0.05). Among the 75 metabolites detected in the metabolomic test and 32 lipids identified in the lipidomic test, Pro Ser Ser Val, PC36:1(18:0_18:1), and BMP36:3(18:2_18:1) were utilized for constructing the predictive model. The model demonstrated good discriminative ability, with an Area Under the Curve (AUC) of 0.821 (95% CI: 0.718–0.924) in the training set and 0.808 (95% CI: 0.627–0.989) in the validation set. The calibration curves indicated good agreement between predicted probabilities and actual probabilities in both the training and validation sets. Finally, the DCA curve suggested that the model has good clinical utility.
Conclusion
The utilization of QM may beneficially influence the recovery of lung imaging in patients with COVID-19. A straightforward nomogram, developed based on metabolomic and lipidomic, could be a valuable tool for clinicians to predict the likelihood of lung imaging recovery in COVID-19 patients.
Deep learning models for predicting the survival of patients with medulloblastoma based on a surveillance, epidemiology, and end results analysis
Authors: Sun Meng , Sun Jikui , Li Meng
Published: March 2024

Background
Medulloblastoma is a malignant neuroepithelial tumor of the central nervous system. Accurate prediction of prognosis is essential for therapeutic decisions in medulloblastoma patients. Several prognostic models have been developed using multivariate Cox regression to predict the1-, 3- and 5-year survival of medulloblastoma patients, but few studies have investigated the results of integrating deep learning algorithms. Compared to simplifying predictions into binary classification tasks, modelling the probability of an event as a function of time by combining it with deep learning may provide greater accuracy and flexibility.
Methods
Patients diagnosed with medulloblastoma between 2000 and 2019 were extracted from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) registry. Three models—one based on neural networks (DeepSurv), one based on ensemble learning (random survival forest [RSF]), and a typical Cox proportional-hazards (CoxPH) model—were selected for training. The dataset was randomly divided into training and testing datasets in a 7:3 ratio. The model performance was evaluated utilizing the concordance index (C-index), Brier score and integrated Brier score (IBS). The accuracy of predicting 1-, 3- and 5- year survival was assessed using receiver operating characteristic curves (ROC), and the area under the ROC curves (AUC).
Results
The 2,322 patients with medulloblastoma enrolled in the study were randomly divided into the training cohort (70%, n = 1,625) and the test cohort (30%, n = 697). There was no statistically significant difference in clinical characteristics between the two cohorts (p > 0.05). We performed Cox proportional hazards regression on the data from the training cohort, which illustrated that age, race, tumour size, histological type, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy were significant factors influencing survival (p < 0.05). The Deepsurv outperformed the RSF and classic CoxPH models with C-indexes of 0.763 and 0.751 for the training and test datasets. The DeepSurv model showed better accuracy in predicting 1-, 3- and 5-year survival (AUC: 0.805–0.838).
Conclusion
The predictive model based on a deep learning algorithm that we have developed can exactly predict the survival rate and duration of medulloblastoma.
Improvements in well-being following naturalistic psychedelic use and underlying mechanisms of change in older adults: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Kettner Hannes , Roseman Leor , Gazzaley Adam , Carhart-Harris Robin , Pasquini Lorenzo
Published: March 2024

Affective symptoms such as anxiety, low mood, and loneliness are prevalent and highly debilitating symptoms among older adults (OA). Serotonergic psychedelics are novel experimental interventions for affective disorders, yet little is known regarding their effects in OA. Using a prospective cohort design, we identified 62 OA (age ≥ 60 years) and 62 matched younger adults (YA) who completed surveys two weeks before, and one day, two weeks, four weeks, and six months after a guided psychedelic group session in a retreat setting. Mixed linear regression analyses revealed significant well-being improvements in OA and YA, amplified in OA with a history of a psychiatric diagnosis. Compared to YA, acute subjective psychedelic effects were attenuated in OA and did not significantly predict well-being changes. However, a psychosocial measure ofCommunitasemerged as a predictor in OA, suggesting that the relational components in psychedelic group settings may hold particular value for OA.
Targeted piperine-coated zinc oxide nanoparticle induces the biofilm inhibition of dental pathogens and apoptosis of oral cancer through the BCL-2/BAX/P53 signaling pathway
Authors: Shaik Mohammed Rafi , Kandaswamy Karthikeyan , Guru Ajay , Khan Haroon , Giri Jayant , Mallik Saurav , Shah Mohd Asif , Arockiaraj Jesu
Published: March 2024

Background
Dental pathogens, encompassing bacteria, viruses, and fungi, are pivotal in the development of oral health issues such as tooth decay, gum disease, and oral infections. Interestingly, recent research suggests a potential interconnection between dental pathogens and oral cancer, with evidence implicating certain oral pathogens in the initiation and progression of oral malignancies. Given the rising concern of antibiotic resistance and the limitations of conventional treatments, there is a compelling need for innovative therapeutic approaches.
Methods
The research involved the synthesis and analysis of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) facilitated by piperine (PIP). Various techniques including UV spectroscopy, SEM, XRD, FTIR, and EDAX were employed to confirm their chemical composition and structural characteristics. Evaluations were conducted on the antioxidant and antimicrobial effectiveness of ZnO-PIP NPs through DPPH, ABTS, and MIC assays. Furthermore, cell viability and regulation of apoptotic gene expression on KB oral squamous carcinoma cells after the treatment were assessed to identify the potential anticancer properties of the ZnO-PIP NPs
Results
ZnO-PIP NPs showed significant antioxidant activity in both DPPH and ABTS assays, indicating their potential as potent scavengers of free radicals. The identified MIC of 50 μg/mL against dental pathogens highlighted the strong antimicrobial properties of ZnO-PIP NPs. Moreover, interaction analysis revealed the high binding affinity and complex amino acid interactions between ZnO-PIP NPs and receptors on dental pathogens. Additionally, in terms of anticancer activity, ZnO-PIP NPs exhibited a dose-dependent response against Human Oral Epidermal Carcinoma KB cells at concentrations ranging from 5 μg/mL to 100 μg/mL. Furthermore, ZnO-PIP NPs treatment increased the upregulation of crucial apoptotic genes, including BCL2, BAX, and P53, within the KB cells, unraveling the intricate mechanism of apoptotic activity.
Conclusions
This approach offers a multifaceted solution to combatting both oral infections and cancer, showcasing their potential for significant advancement in oral healthcare.
Obstetric outcomes of patients with inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Tondreau Ambre , Breuval Coraline , Gondry Jean , Fumery Mathurin , Foulon Arthur
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) are frequently diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 40, i.e. the most fertile period for women. The potential impact of IBD on pregnancy is therefore a frequent issue.
Study objective: To determine the impact of disease activity during pregnancy on the obstetric prognosis of women with IBD.
Methods: Gastroenterological and obstetric data were collected for patients for all consecutive patients with IBD and pregnancy followed up at Amiens University Hospital (Amiens, France) between 2007 and 2021. Obstetrics outcome of patients with and without active disease were compared.
Results: One hundred patients were included (81 with Crohn’s Disease for 198 pregnancies, 19 with Ulcerative Colitis for 37 pregnancies). Patients with active IBD (21 patients, 24 pregnancies) were more likely to be admitted to hospital during pregnancy (66.6%, vs. 5.2% in the inactive IBD group; p<0.001), to give birth prematurely (mean term: 36.77 weeks of amenorrhoea (WA) vs. 38.7 WA, respectively; p=0.02) and to experience very premature delivery (before 32 WA: 12.5% vs. 1.4%, respectively; p=0.02). Patients with active disease had a shorter term at birth (38.4 WA, vs. 39.8 WA in the inactive disease group; p<0.0001), a lower birth weight (2707 g vs. 3129 g, respectively; p=0.01) and higher caesarean section rate (54.2% vs. 16.9%, respectively; p=0.03).
Conclusion: Women with IBD patients are at risk of pregnancy related complications, especially when IBD is active. Controlling disease activity at conception and close monitoring of the pregnancy is essential to improve both gastroenterological and obstetric outcome.
Generalization of Chapman-Kolmogorov equation to two coupled processes
Authors: Motahari H. , Noudehi M. Ghanbarzadeh , Jamali T. , Jafari G. R.
Published: March 2024

Real-world processes often display a prolonged memory, which extends beyond the single-step dependency characteristic of Markov processes. In addition, the current state of an empirical process is often not only influenced by its own past but also by the past states of other dependent processes. This study introduces the generalized version of the Chapman-Kolmogorov equation (CKE) to estimate the memory size in such scenarios. To assess the applicability of our approach, we generate coupled time series with predetermined memory lengths using the autoregressive model. The results show a high degree of accuracy in measuring memory lengths. Subsequently, we employ the generalized CKE to analyze cryptocurrency data as a real-world case study. Our results indicate that the past dynamics of cryptocurrencies significantly impact their current states, thereby highlighting interdependencies among them. The method proposed in this study can be also utilized in forecasting coupled time series.
Continuity and Volume of Bone Cement and Anti Osteoporosis Treatment were Guarantee of Good Clinical Outcomes for Percutaneous Vertebroplasty: a Multicentre Study
Authors: Cheng Zhen , Ren Guangzong , Li Ziyi , Gao Xianda , Zhang Di , Chen Guiyue
Published: March 2024

Background:
As the most prevalent fragility fracture caused by osteoporosis, increasing attention was paid to vertebral compression fractures (VCF) day by day. Percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP) had unique advantages in treatment of VCF and was used widely. Researching how to improving surgical efficacy and decreasing postoperative residual was able to benefit more patients. The purpose of our study was to seek for those associated factors with good clinical outcomes after PVP and provide evidence for improving surgical efficacy.
Material and Methods:
186 patients who underwent PVP from January 2021 to January 2023 were reviewed retrospectively in the study. The patients were divided into two groups according to clinical outcomes. Preoperative general data and surgical data were collected for statistical analysis. Multivariate logistic regression analysis and the receiver operating characteristic curve were used to identify the associated factors with good clinical outcomes.
Results:
There were statistically significant differences between two groups in volume of bone cement (p=0.012), standardized treatment for osteoporosis (p=0.004)and bone cement continuity (p=0.006). The associated factors with good clinical outcomes after PVP were continuous bone cement (OR=2.237, 95% CI=1.191-4.201, p=0.012), standardized treatment for osteoporosis (OR=2.105, 95% CI=1.089-4.068, p=0.027) and volume of bone cement >5.5ml (OR=1.271, 95% CI=1.023-1.579, p=0.030).
Conclusion:
PVP effectively released the back pain of patients and was worthy of promotion. However, postoperative residual pain was an important factor that reduced the clinical outcomes. Continuous bone cement, Injected bone cement >5.5ml and tandardized treatment for osteoporosis were guarantee of good clinical outcomes for PVP