bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparing the thermal infrared signatures of shallow buried objects and disturbed soil
Authors: Bishop Megan , Truong Vuong , Bragdon Sophia , Clausen Jay
Published: September 2024

The alteration of physical and thermal properties of native soil during object burial produces a signature that can be detected using thermal infrared (IR) imagery. This study explores the thermal signature of disturbed soil compared to buried objects of different compositions (e.g., metal and plastic) buried 5 cm below ground surface (bgs) to better understand the mechanisms by which soil disturbance can impact the performance of aided target detection and recognition (AiTD/R). IR imagery recorded every five minutes were coupled with meteorological data recorded on 15-minute intervals from 1 July to 31 October 2022 to compare the diurnal and long-term fluctuations in raw radiance within a 25 × 25 pixel area of interest (AOI) above each target. This study examined the diurnal pattern of the thermal signature under several varying environmental conditions. Results showed that surface effects from soil disturbance increased the raw radiance of the AOI, strengthening the contrast between the object and background soil for several weeks after object burial. Enhancement of the thermal signature may lead to expanded windows of object visibility. Target age was identified as an important element in the development of training data sets for machine learning (ML) classification algorithms.
Standar Pengelolaan Penilaian Peserta Didik di Madarasah Aliyah Ma’arif Balong
Authors: Diantoro Fery , Ristyana Amalia Fitri , Aprilia Eka , Anshori Fahira Alhamdila
Published: September 2024

Assessment is an activity or process of collecting and processing information so that student learning outcomes can be measured and reviewed. Management of student assessment has standards that must be met by teachers or educators so that the assessment results are objective to measure the level of development and achievement of learning. MA Ma'arif Balong applies standards for managing student assessment with an assessment model that is expected to improve the quality and quality of education. This study was conducted using a descriptive qualitative method, because this study was conducted directly and requires real objects to search for, find and select new knowledge based on several structured theories and principles that are carried out seriously. The purpose of this study is to describe the management model, techniques and factors that influence the assessment. Management of assessment at MA Ma'arif Balong is carried out according to educational assessment standards that are sourced from government regulations on student assessment which are developed and adjusted to the needs of the madrasah. The student assessment model at MA Ma'arif Balong uses authentic assessment, daily test assessment, mid-semester assessment, and final semester assessment. The student assessment technique uses attitude assessment, knowledge assessment and skills assessment. The management of student assessment at MA Ma'arif Balong is influenced by two factors, namely factors from within the test which include test directions or instructions, choice of words on the test instrument, level of test difficulty, inappropriate time and number of questions, and factors from students which consist of the level of student motivation and differences in learning and understanding test.
Welding consumable selection for 304B4 borated stainless steel
Authors: M Divya , Das C.R. , M Vasudevan
Published: September 2024

304B4 borated stainless steel is used for neutron shielding in intermediate heat exchangers of Indian prototype fast breeder reactor. The weldability of this stainless steel is poor and there is no standard consumable available for welding this steel. Hence, selection of a proper consumable and welding of this steel poses severe challenge during fabrication of components. In this study, weldability of 304B4 SS weld joint prepared using E308 is evaluated using spot Varestraint test technique. The weldability of this consumable is compared with other consumables like E309 and boron added E308BRN. E308 consumable shows better weldability than E309 consumable while joining 304B4 SS after buttering. Mechanical properties of the weldments prepared using E308 and 304B4 filler wire were evaluated and compared with the properties of weldments prepared using E309 and E308BRN. E308 consumable shows tensile properties on par with E309 weldment and also, better impact toughness than E309 weld metal. Whereas, the 304B4 SS filler wire shows better tensile strength and weldability than E308 or E309 weld joints but poor weld metal impact toughness. The study gives a clear guidance on selection of appropriate consumable for welding borated stainless steels based on the intended function of the fabricated component.
SPH Analysis of Wind-Sand Transport on Embankments with Varying Slopes
Authors: Gao Wenxiu , Jin Afang , Yan Ming
Published: September 2024

This study aims to use the Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics (SPH) method to simulate the movement of wind-sand flow on small-scale embankments with different slope ratios. Traditional numerical methods based on grids are not well-suited for small-scale models due to their sensitivity to large grid deformations and distortions. In contrast, the SPH method represents the solution domain through discretized independent particles, allowing it to effectively resolve various issues stemming from large grid deformations or distortions. Therefore, this study uses the SPH method to construct an embankment model with virtual particles, establish a two-phase flow model of wind-sand flow on the embankment, develop an SPH program for simulating wind-sand flow on embankments using the C programming language, and analyze the wind-sand flow field on embankments with different slope ratios. The results show that the variation in embankment slope ratios has a significant impact on the wind-sand flow field. As the slope ratio decreases continuously, the embankment gradually slows down, and the weakened wind speed zones on both sides of the embankment gradually decrease. Consequently, the area of sand accumulation diminishes progressively, making it less prone to sand accumulation.
A Bayesian life-course linear structural equations model (BLSEM) to explore the development of body mass index (BMI) from the prenatal stage until middle age.
Authors: Jarvelin Marjo-Riitta , Tzala Evangelia , Banterle Marco , Karhunen Ville , Bond Tom , Tolvanen Mimmi , Kaakinen Marika , Sebert Sylvain , Lewin Alexandra
Published: September 2024

OBJECTIVE AND METHODS: We have developed a novel Bayesian Linear Structural Equations Model (BLSEM) with variable selection priors (available as an R package) to build directed acyclic graphs to delineate complex variable associations and pathways to BMI development. Conditional on standard assumptions used in causal inference, the model provides interpretable estimates with uncertainty for natural direct and indirect (mediated) effects.
RESULTS: We showcase our method using data on 4 119 offspring followed from the pre-pregnancy period to age 46 years(y) in a Finnish population-based birth cohort. The BLSEM enabled efficiently to analyse all available data over the long-time span, identifying factors to distil potential causal pathways contributing to adult BMI development. All of the associations between early childhood and adolescence variables with adult BMI at 46y (BMI46) were indirect via multiple paths. For example, maternal prepregnancy BMI, smoking and socioeconomic position associated with BMI46 through 35, 31 and 26 paths. Another notable feature was that the contribution of very early life factors, particularly prenatal, was captured by growth patterns along the childhood which were the strongest early predictors of middle age BMI46 (the age at adiposity rebound (AgeAR), early growth parameters between the AgeAR to 11y). BMI and blood pressure measured 15y earlier also predicted BMI46, all other factors held constant. Genetic predisposition by the polygenic risk score for BMI, showed an indirect effect that became apparent at AgeAR and thereafter.
CONCLUSIONS: The Bayesian approach we present and BLSEM software developed advances methodologies for the analysis of complex, multifaceted life-course data prior to the estimation of potential causal pathways. Our results, although exploratory in nature, suggest that the effective interventions to tackle adverse BMI development could be designed throughout childhood though period by AgeAR maybe paramount. We feature the importance of integrated life-course analyses that help to understand the contribution of life-stage factors of development.
Wind Speed Interannual Variability with Measured Data Validations and its Impact on Energy Yield in the Southwest Sea of Korea
Authors: Ryu Geonhwa , Sargin Okan , Kim Hyojeong , Lee Dohee , Pulo Anna , Kim Hyun-Goo , Kim Chang Ki , Moon Chae-Joo , Kim Jin-Young
Published: September 2024

The Republic of Korea (ROK) has set an ambitious goal of 40.7 GW of onshore and offshore wind farms by 2038, as outlined in the "11th Basic Plan for Electricity Supply and Demand" in May 2024. To achieve this target, both wind farm developers and the government are crafting policies for "Project Site Planning" and "Offshore Wind Farm Clusters." A major concern for stakeholders is the variability in annual wind resource driven by climate phenomena and climate change, which can lead to increased uncertainty in energy yield predictions. This study investigates the interannual wind speed variability (IAV) of wind speed in the Southwest Sea of Korea, a critical factor influencing energy yield predictions and the Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE) for offshore wind farms. To achieve this, we used reanalysis datasets, validated against measurement data, to calculate a ROK-specific IAV. Our findings indicate a possibility of reduction in LCOE by accurately accounting for regional IAV, particularly in Jeonnam, where 14 GW of offshore wind capacity is projected. This research provides essential data for improving energy yield predictions, thereby enhancing financial confidence and supporting the development of expertise in ROK’s growing wind energy sector.
A Multiscale-Information-Embedded Universal Toxicity Prediction Framework
Authors: He Song , Wu Lianlian , Wang Fanmeng , Zhang Yixin , Li Ruijiang , Zhao Yanpeng , Xu Hongteng , Gao Zhifeng , Bo Xiaochen
Published: September 2024

The inherent toxicity of compounds poses a significant threat to human health and the environment throughout their entire lifecycle, encompassing production, use, storage, and disposal. Compound-induced toxicity evaluation is a critical concern across various fields, including drug discovery and environmental studies. Recent advances in deep learning hold promise for predicting compound-induced toxicities. However, existing works often exhibit poor predictive accuracy and generalizability, especially for rare toxicities with limited data. Most works fail to capture the three-dimensional (3D) spatial arrangement and stereochemical properties of compounds, which are crucial for understanding their toxicological profiles. And the interrelated nature of various toxicities has often been overlooked. Here we propose ToxScan, a novel SE(3)-equivariant multiscale model, as a universal toxicity prediction framework to address these issues. A two-level representation learning protocol, encompassing molecular- and atomic-level information, is introduced to better incorporate the geometry information of 3D conformation. A parallel multiscale modelling and a multi-task learning scheme is applied to learn the universal toxicological characteristics of multiple toxicity categories. Through comprehensive analysis in multiple scenarios such as multi-task toxicity prediction, module effectiveness testing, generalization testing on new small-scale endpoints, distinguishing ability on structurally similar compounds with opposing toxicities, in vitro experimental validation of new predictions, and testing on practical application data, ToxScan demonstrates convincing predictive capability and generalizability, surpassing the state-of-the-art by a remarkable 7.8–37.6% performance boost on four metrics for medium- and small-scale endpoints. Typical case studies demonstrate that ToxScan can identify subtle structural variations by capturing molecular structural features at multiple levels. To facilitate user accessibility, we have integrated the trained ToxScan and developed a user-friendly online prediction platform (https://app.bohrium.dp.tech/toxscan), allowing researchers to obtain multiple toxicity endpoint predictions for new compounds quickly and conveniently. We envision ToxScan as a valuable tool for compound-induced toxicity evaluation, effectively reducing analysis cycles and costs while providing practical utility for researchers in drug discovery, toxicology and environmental studies.
Remote Monitoring and Management of Water Quality in the Indian River Ganga: Regression Modelling Approach
Authors: Shakhari Swapan , Banerjee Indrajit
Published: September 2024

There is a critical issue of water quality degradation in the River Ganga that threatens the health and welfare of millions of Indians. The River Ganga's water quality may be monitored and managed with the help of remote location water quality prediction. The goal of this work is to create and assess regression models and error analysis methods for predicting River Ganga water quality at remote locations. The data set used in the study comprises of water quality measurements taken at several sites throughout the River Ganga Basin. These measures include temperature, dissolved oxygen, pH, conductivity, biochemical oxygen demand, nitrate levels. The association between the independent factors (distance and temperature) and the dependent variables (water quality indicators) is established using a linear regression model. The water quality characteristics for unmonitored areas along the river are then predicted using the trained model. These findings enable preemptive actions to be made to reduce water pollution and guarantee the sustainability of the River Ganga ecosystem. They also shed light on the correlations between distance, temperature, and water quality indicators. The findings have consequences for human health, ecosystems, and economies reliant on the Ganga River, and they help build effective water quality monitoring and management measures.
Effect of combining Gold Nanoparticles with Diode or Er. Cr:YSGG Laser on the Bond Strength of Etch- and- Rinse Adhesive to Dentin Surface
Authors: Sadony Doaa Mohamed , Sabry Mona Abdallah , Samier Haitham , Hassan Shahinaz , El-Shahawi Amal
Published: September 2024

Background
The aim of this work is to study the effect of different types of laser and gold nanoparticles on the bond strength of etched and adhesive dentin surface.
Methods
Sixty human molars were collected; the crowns were removed and a cavity (2x3 mm) was prepared on the buccal and lingual surfaces. Then, the teeth were sectioned perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis. The samples were divided according to the adhesive technique used and the hardness was tested by Vickers hardness tester, the roughness was tested by using universal testing machine and the depth of penetration was tested by Scanning electric microscope.
Results
Compared with those in the control group, the hardness in the groups treated with the laser was significantly greater. Moreover, for roughness, group C1 exhibited greater roughness than did the other groups. With respect to the depth of penetration, Group A0 and Group C0 demonstrated the greatest depth of penetration, while Group B0 and Group D0 demonstrated the lowest depth of penetration.
Conclusions
After applying the adhesive, the laser beam improved the diffusion of the material into the dentinal tubules in the presence of gold nanoparticles and increased the hardness and roughness of the dental structure.
Hydroxyethylamine-based analog targets microtubule assembly: An in silico study for anti-cancerous drug development
Authors: Kumar Pawan , Khan Rajni , Singh Basant Narain , Kumari Anisha , Rai Ankit , Singh Anil Kumar , Prakash Amresh , Ray Shashikant
Published: September 2024

Microtubules are dynamic cytoskeletal structures essential for cell architecture, cellular transport, cell motility, and cell division. Due to their dynamic nature, known as dynamic instability, microtubules can spontaneously switch between phases of growth (growth phase) and shortening (shortening phase). Disruptions in microtubule functions have been implicated in several diseases, including cancer, neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease, and birth defects. The critical role of microtubules during various phases of the cell cycle, particularly in cell division, makes them attractive targets for drug development. Several clinically successful drugs currently on the market are designed to target microtubules. However, the presence of cellular toxicity and the development of multidrug resistance necessitate the search for new microtubule-targeting drugs. In this study, we employed in silico methods to screen a library of 106 hydroxyethylamine (HEA) based analogs to identify potent inhibitors of microtubule assembly. We identified three inhibitors BKS3031A (2S, 2’S,3R,3’R)-1,1’-(piperazine-1,4-diyl)bis(3-amino-4-phenylbutan-2-ol), BKS3045A (S)-2-amino-N-((2R,3S)-4-(4-(4-bromobenzyl)piperazin-1-yl)-3-hydroxy-1-phenylbutan-2-yl)-3-phenylpropanamide) and BKS3046A (S)-2-amino-N-((2R,3S)-4-(4-(4-bromobenzyl)piperazin-1-yl)-3-hydroxy-1-phenylbutan-2-yl)-3-methylbutanamide) that bind at the same site as the well-known microtubule-targeting agent colchicine. These inhibitors were simulated for 100 ns with tubulin complexes, and the results indicated that they remain stable within the binding pocket of α-β tubulin complexes. Our findings suggest that these novel modified inhibitors have the potential to bind to and perturb the microtubule network, positioning them as promising microtubule-targeting agents. Moreover, in vivo and in vitro studies will further validate the potential of these inhibitors as suitable drug candidates against cancer.
Are “Global Measures” of Psychological Intimate Partner Violence Against Women Really Comparable? A Measurement Invariance Analysis of Controlling Behaviors in 19 Low- and Middle- Income Countries
Authors: Yount Kathryn M. , Johnson Erin , Kaslow Nadine , Cheong Yuk Fai
Published: September 2024

Background
One third of adult women report lifetime psychological intimate partner violence (IPV). Controlling behavior is a common dimension of psychological IPV; however, evidence is mixed on its cross-national and cross-time measurement invariance, limiting its use to monitor Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 5.2.1, to eliminate all forms of violence against women. We explored easier-to-modify survey-design features and harder-to-modify individual-level and national-level characteristics that may account for non-invariance of these controlling-behavior items.
Methods
We analyzed data on five controlling behaviors administered to 373,167 ever-partnered women 15–49 years in 19 low- or middle-income countries in which at least two national Demographic and Health Surveys were administered during 2005–2019. We performed multiple-group confirmatory factor analysis (MGCFA) to test for exact forms of invariance and alignment optimization (AO) to test for approximate invariance across 7–9 survey-design groups, defined by the number of preceding questionnaire modules (to proxy respondent burden) and weeks of interviewer training (to proxy interviewer skills). Adjustment for covariates in the MGCFA assessed whether individual- and national-level characteristics could account for any observed non-invariance across survey-design groups.
Results
In MGCFA without covariates, configural invariance of the controlling-behavior items was observed across survey-design groups. Exact invariance, partial invariance (with 20% of parameter estimates freed), and approximate invariance were not observed across groups. In adjusted MGCFA, neither woman-level covariates (schooling, attitudes about IPV against women) nor national-level covariates (women’s mean schooling, mean attitudes about IPV against women, gender-related legal environment) alone or combined accounted for the non-invariance of controlling-behavior items across survey-design groups.
Conclusions
Comparing estimates for controlling behavior across country, time, and survey design variations warrants caution. Standardizing questionnaire length and interviewer training may improve the invariance of these items. Other characteristics, like ethnicity and language, may account for the non-invariance of controlling-behavior items across survey-design groups and should be tested. Current controlling-behavior items should be refined to enhance their comparability, and new controlling-behavior items should be identified and tested to improve the item set’s content validity. Given current evidence of the high prevalence and health impacts of psychological IPV against women, advancing this research agenda is needed to monitor SDG 5.2.1.
Effect of Ethyl Pyruvate Administration Before and After Acute Colitis on Large intestine
Authors: Yorulmaz Elif , Yorulmaz Hatice , Özkök Elif , Küçük Suat Hayri , Sünger Erdem , Ebrahimi Ayyub , Yılmaz Beyza , Altınay Serdar
Published: September 2024

The effects of Ethyl Pyruvate (EP) before and after colitis in trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS) induced colitis were investigated. Animals were divided to Control, EP, Colitis, Pre-colitis, Post-colitis groups. The matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2), MMP-9, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-17 (IL-17), IL-10, IL-1, Nuclear Factor kappa B (NFƘβ), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in tissue were determined. MMP-9, MMP-2, TNF-α, IL-1, IL-12, IL-17, iNOS, NFκB, high mobility group box 1 protein (HMGB1), and Interferon gamma (IFN-γ) gene expression levels were analyzed. EP treatment decreased macroscopic and microscopic damage scores (p < 0.01) EP treatment decreased most of the inflammatory-related gene expression levels in the pre- and post-colitis compared to the colitis. EP application reduced IL-1 and IL-17, MMP-9, MMP-2, and NFƘβ, especially in the post-colitis group (p < 0.05). The study shown that EP application has a therapeutic effect as well as a protective effect on large intestine in colitis.
High-resolution Microbiome Analysis of Host-Rich Samples Using 2bRAD-M Without Host Depletion
Authors: Jiang Yuesong , Liu Jiang , Zhang Yufeng , Zhou Lisha , Kao Enoch , Hou Shuwen , Niu Qianya , Liu Yongxin , Xu Zhenjiang Zech , Ding Tao , Wang Xiuping , Teng Fei , Huang Shi
Published: September 2024

Background
Characterizing human microbiota in samples is crucial for understanding host-microbe interactions but remains challenged by high host DNA contamination. Current depletion strategies are limited by DNA loss and require immediate processing. In this paper, we introduce 2bRAD-M, a reduced metagenomic sequencing method that offers an efficient and integrated analysis of the host-microbe ecosystem, overcoming issues of high host contamination.
Results
Validated on mock samples with > 90% human DNA, 2bRAD-M achieved over 93% in AUPR and L2 similarity metrics. In real saliva samples, it captured diurnal and host-specific microbiome patterns which matched whole metagenome sequencing (WMS) with only 5–10% sequencing effort. In an early childhood caries (ECC) study, 2bRAD-M identified key bacterial indicators and distinguished ECC from healthy subjects with an AUC of 0.92, demonstrating its utility in high host DNA contexts.
Conclusions
2bRAD-M represents a significant technical advancement in microbiome research, particularly in tackling high host DNA contamination. Its ability to provide high-resolution microbial profiles without the need for immediate host depletion processing offers a practical and efficient alternative to existing methods.
Determinants of puerperal sepsis among mothers who give birth at Jigjiga public hospitals, Somali Regional State, Eastern Ethiopia
Authors: Ali Hassan Nur , Tahlil Abdullahi Ahmed , Mohamud Mahad Ali , Daud Fuad Ismail , Gobena Tesfaye , Umeokonkwo Chukwuma David , Ibrahim Ahmed Mohammed
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Puerperal sepsis is a significant public health concern in low-resource settings, including Ethiopia, where it is a major contributor to maternal mortality, accounting for 13% of maternal deaths. We investigated the determinants of puerperal sepsis among mothers who give birth at Jigjiga Public Hospitals, Somali Regional State, Eastern Ethiopia.
Methods:A facility-based unmatched case-control design was employed, with a sample size of 227 (76 cases and 151 controls). The study was conducted at two public hospitals in Jigjiga, Eastern Ethiopia, from January 2022 to December 2022. Data was collected using a standardized structured questionnaire and medical record review. Data were analyzed using SPSS software version 26. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to identify the determinants of puerperal sepsis. The level of significance was set at 0.05.
Results: The mean age of the mothers was 30.2±10.2 years for cases and 31.5±6.7 years for controls. The results showed that not attending antenatal care regularly (aOR: 3.2, 95% CI: 1.483-6.940), having fewer antenatal care follow-ups (aOR: 3.3, 95% CI: 1.608-6.589), membranes rupturing for less than 24 hours (aOR: 4.6, 95% CI: 1.933-11.028), and having fewer pelvic examinations (aOR: 12.1, 95% CI: 2.873-19.131) were determinants of puerperal sepsis.
Conclusion: The study found that several factors were associated with puerperal sepsis, including irregular antenatal care attendance, fewer antenatal follow-ups, delayed membrane rupture, and fewer pelvic examinations. To address this issue, healthcare providers and policymakers should prioritize improving access to quality antenatal care, empowering mothers through education and enhancing maternal education, and implementing evidence-based guidelines for managing obstetric complications.
Dimensional synthesis of 6-DOF parallel robot for Intra-Operative Radiation Therapy
Authors: Peng Baoying , Zhu Yushuo , Niu Chuanmeng
Published: September 2024

In order to meet the kinematic requirements of large range of motion, payload, and stiffness of Intra-Operative Radiation Therapy robots, a 6-degree-of-freedom (DOF) parallel platform is introduced and a dimensional synthesis study is carried out. The kinematic and static stiffness models of the 6-DOF parallel robot for Intra-Operative Radiation Therapy are derived around a virtual isocentric control point. Under the premise of ensuring the positional accuracy, the optimal dimensions of the initial rod length, the radius of the upper and lower platforms, and the circumferential angle of the 6-DOF parallel platform are obtained by using the multi-objective optimization method combining the non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm and the global 4criterion with the working space, stiffness, and load as the optimization objectives.. A full-size prototype was built, and experiments on payload, range of motion, modality, and harmonic response were carried out. The results show that the theoretical stiffness model has high accuracy, and the dimensional synthesized 6-DOF parallel platform can meet the clinical requirements of Intra-Operative Radiation Therapy in terms of workspace, stiffness and payload, as well as position accuracy.
Self-powered visible-blind ultraviolet photodetectors based on SnO2 nanowire cotton synthesized using thermal chemical vapor deposition
Authors: Park Mijin , Kang Hyon Chol
Published: September 2024

We report a simple method for fabricating a SnO2 nanowire (NW) cotton-based ultraviolet (UV) photodetector. SnO2 NW cotton was synthesized by thermal chemical vapor deposition with SnO powder. Ag paste was coated onto the surface of the SnO2 NW cotton to serve as the electrode. The performance of the photodetector was evaluated upon UV light exposure at a wavelength of 254 nm, with a photo-to-dark-current ratio of 7.9 × 105, photoresponsivity of 1.141 × 103 A/W, and specific detectivity of 9.0 × 1015 Jones. The spectral photoresponsivity was also determined in the 200–600 nm wavelength range. The results showed a maximum responsivity at 270 nm and a cut-off edge wavelength of 360 nm, exhibiting the characteristics of a visible-blind UV photodetector. In addition, self-powered capability with a photocurrent of 2.3 nA was demonstrated at a nominal zero bias.
Cost-effectiveness and benefit-risk of rotavirus vaccination in Afghanistan: a modelling analysis informed by post-licensure surveillance
Authors: Anwari Palwasha , Debellut Frédéric , Parwiz Sardar , Pecenka Clint , Clark Andrew
Published: September 2024

Introduction
Afghanistan added ROTARIX to the routine national immunization programme in 2018. We aimed to estimate the cost-effectiveness and benefit-risk of ROTARIX and compare its continued use with other rotavirus vaccines that could be used in the future.
Methods
We used a static cohort model with a finely disaggregated age structure (weeks of age < 5 years) to assess the use of ROTARIX (1-dose vial) over a seven-year period (2018–2024) in Afghanistan. The primary outcome measure was the discounted cost (2022 US$) per Disability Adjusted Life Year (DALY) averted (from government and societal perspectives) compared to no vaccination. We also calculated the benefit-risk ratio i.e., the number of RVGE deaths prevented per one excess intussusception death. Model inputs were informed by pre- and post-licensure surveillance data, new analyses of household survey data, and updated estimates from the international literature. We ran a separate analysis to compare the potential cost-effectiveness and benefit-risk of ROTARIX (1-dose vial), ROTASIIL (1-dose vial), ROTASIIL (2-dose vial), and ROTAVAC (5-dose vial) over a ten-year period (2025–2034). Each product was compared to no rotavirus vaccination and each other. We ran deterministic and probabilistic uncertainty analyses and interpreted our results over a range of cost-effectiveness thresholds.
Findings
We estimated that routine use of ROTARIX between 2018 and 2024 has prevented 4,600 RVGE deaths (a 41% reduction), 86,400 hospital admissions, and 1.72 million outpatient visits. For every 1,493 RVGE deaths prevented by the vaccine, we estimated one potential excess intussusception death. With a heavily reduced vaccine dose cost (Gavi’s support) the net cost to the Afghanistan government vaccine programme was estimated to be US$ 4.4 million per year. The cost per DALY averted was US$ 125 (0.25 times the national GDP per capita) when using a Gavi-subsidised vaccine cost and including household costs averted by vaccination. This increased to US$ 471 (0.94 times the national GDP per capita) when incorporating the full vaccine price without Gavi's subsidy and excluding household costs averted by vaccination. When assuming continued Gavi support over the period 2025–2034, the dominant product would be ROTARIX. Without Gavi support, ROTASIIL (2-dose vial) dominates.
Conclusion
Our study supports the sustained use of rotavirus vaccination in Afghanistan. The rotavirus vaccine is cost-effective and is health benefits greatly exceed its potential health risks.
Unveiling Hidden Vulnerabilities in Quantum Systems by Expanding Attack Vectors through Heisenberg’s Uncertainty Principle
Authors: Bustos Jose Rosas , Thé Jesse Van Griensven , Frayser Roydon
Published: September 2024

This study uncovers novel vulnerabilities within Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) protocols that extend beyond traditional implementation flaws, such as loopholes. These newly identified vulnerabilities arise from the complex interaction between Bell Inequalities (BIs) and Hidden Variable Theories (HVTs), further exacerbated by the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle (HUP). Through a combination of theoretical analysis, simulations, and quantum experiments, we reveal critical security weaknesses that challenge the core assumptions of today's quantum cryptography. While these vulnerabilities differ from known loopholes, when considered alongside them and traditional cyberattacks, they present a significant threat to the robustness of QKD and quantum integrity systems. These results provide a new perspective to rethink current quantum security frameworks to ensure the robustness of future quantum cryptographic and quantum integrity protocols.
Weakened effectiveness of short-term emission controls for major events in Chinese cities
Authors: Zhao Yu , WANG YING , He Qin , Kong Hao , Qin Kai , Zheng Bo , Lin Jintai
Published: September 2024

Short-term measures on air quality improvement have been commonly conducted for major events held in China, while their effectiveness was insufficiently analyzed due to deficient capability of tracking the fast-changing emissions of cities. Here we combined a machine learning algorithm, multiple satellite measurements, and an air quality model, and deduced 7-day moving averages of NOX emissions for host and neighboring cities of 11 events held from 2010 to 2023 in Yangtze River Delta (YRD). We find the benefits of short-term controls on emissions for these events have been weakened over time, due to the gradually tightened long-term controls and to a more cautious strategy of air quality improvement for recent events. The main sector of emission abatement for events shifted from power to industry and transportation, reflecting the diverse progresses of regular controls for different sectors. As a legacy, short-term controls supported better design of long-term air quality policies.
The novel target, mechanism and agonist of α-Ketoglutaric acid in delaying mesenchymal stem cell senescence
Authors: Chen Peng , Cui Zhao , Li Caifeng , Deng Shiwen , Liu Wei , Li Jiameng , Lei Tong , Cao Junxian , Wang Ziyi , wang xiaowu , Ma Shuhua , Yang Hongjun
Published: September 2024

α-Ketoglutaric acid (aKG) participates in the tricarboxylic acid cycle in the process of cell aerobic metabolism and is of significant physiological importance. Although aKG is genetically associated with human longevity and decreased fertility, its anti-aging mechanism remain largely unknown. Here, we used interdisciplinary techniques such as metabolomics, chemical biology, and organoid microfluidic devices to explore the regulatory effect of aKG on senescence in a mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) model. We found that the expression of isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 (IDH1) in MSCs decreased after senescence, leading to reduced production of the active product aKG. Increasing intracellular aKG by supplementation with exogenous aKG or overexpression of IDH1 can promote MSC proliferation and delay MSC senescence, while inhibiting aKG production by knocking down IDH1 can induce premature MSC senescence. Specifically, aKG facilitates the interaction of ribosomal protein S23 (RPS23) with 2-oxoglutarate and Fe(II)-dependent oxygenase domain containing protein 1 (OGFOD1), and subsequently enhancing the hydroxylation of RPS23. This modulation of the RPS23–OGFOD1 complex contributes to the augmentation of protein translational fidelity. Finally, we attempted to activate IDH1 as a new anti-aging strategy. IDH1 is activated by the natural active molecule scutellarin (Scu), which not only increases the production of aKG but also delays the senescence of MSCs and ameliorates the aging phenotype of aged mouse. In summary, our study elucidates the effect of aKG on protein translation accuracy during MSC senescence and provides a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of aging-related diseases.
Subglacial Water Amplifies Antarctic Contributions to Sea-Level Rise
Authors: Zhao Chen , Gladstone Rupert , Zwinger Thomas , Gillet-Chaulet Fabien , Wang Yu , Caillet Justine , Mathiot Pierre , Saraste Leopekka , Jager Eliot , Galton-Fenzi Benjamin , Christoffersen Poul , King Matt
Published: September 2024

Antarctica's contribution to global sea-level rise (SLR) is deeply uncertain, with subglacial water suspected to play a critical role, yet its impact remains unclear. We demonstrate that water at the base of ice sheets influences sliding behavior and that its exclusion from models can underestimate SLR projections and delay the predicted onset of tipping points. Here we use the Antarctic Ice Sheet model (Elmer/Ice) to explore how different pressure determination methods at the ice base, with subglacial water present, affect SLR projections from 2015 to 2300. Our results indicate that incorporating subglacial water can amplify ice discharge across the Antarctic Ice Sheet by up to threefold above the standard approach, potentially contributing an additional $~$2.2 metres to SLR by 2300. Basin-specific responses vary significantly, with some scenarios advancing tipping points by up to 40 years. These findings underscore the critical need for integrating evolving subglacial hydrology into ice sheet models.
Systematic identification of cancer-type specific drugs based on essential genes and validations in lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Lian Xiang , Kuang Xia , Zhang Dong-Dong , Xu Qian , Ye Anqiang , Wang Cheng-Yu , Cui Hong-Tu , Guo Hai-Xia , Zhang Ji-Yun , Liu Yuan , Deng Zi-Xin , Cheng Zhenshun , Guo Feng-Biao
Published: September 2024

Background Depicting a global landscape of essential gene-targeting drugs would provide more opportunities for cancer therapy. Essential genes have been determined in many cancer cell lines. However, systematic investigation on drugs targeting essential genes still has not been reported.
Methods We suppose that drugs targeting cancer-type specific essential genes would generally have less toxicity than those targeting pan-caner essential genes. A scoring function-based strategy was developed to identify cancer-type specific targets and drugs. The EssentialitySpecificityScore ranked the essential genes in 19 cancer types, and 1151 top genes were identified as cancer-type specific targets. Combining target-drug interaction database records with drug research/marketing status, 370 cancer-type specific drugs were identified, bound to 100 out of all identified targets. Cell-inhibiting experiments evaluated the seven chosen drugs’ toxicity on normal and cancer cells. Student’s t-test was used to compare the difference in inhibiting rates. Pearson’s correlation analysis measures the association of targets’ pan-cancer essentialities and drugs’ inhibiting rates on normal cells.
Results Profiles of applied cancer types of identified targets and drugs illustrate the effectiveness of the scoring strategy and most of them apply to cancer types less than 10. Seven drugs with no previous anti-cancer evidence were validated in 11 lung adenocarcinoma cell lines, and lower inhibition rates (from 9.4% to 44.0%) were observed in 10 normal cell lines. This difference is statistically significant (Student’s t-test, p = 0.0001). We also found that the aggregative essentiality values of potentially bound targets are correlated (Pearson's correlation analysis, p = 0.062) with the inhibiting rate of seven tested drugs on normal cells, further confirming the rationality of our supposition.
Conclusions Our work, for the first time, systematically identified drugs targeting cancer-type-specific essential genes and validated the safety of such drugs to normal cells compared to lung adenocarcinoma cells. The EGKG forms a computational basis to uncover essential gene targets and drugs for specific cancer types. Also, our cell experimental result suggests that combining drugs with orthogonal essentiality may be an alternative way to improve anti-cancer effects while maintaining biocompatibility.
Structural insights into the opening mechanism of human Cx43/GJA1 gap junction channel
Authors: Woo Jae-Sung , Lee Hyuk-Joon , Oh Jeong-Seok , Cha Hyung Jin
Published: September 2024

Gating of the gap junction intercellular channel (GJCh) is tightly regulated by several cellular factors; however, the underlying mechanism is poorly understood. A cryo-EM study of human Cx43 GJCh revealed detailed structural changes induced by PIP2. Cx43 protomers in a phospholipid environment show dynamic equilibrium among several N-terminal helix (NTH) conformations, including gate-covering NTH (GCN) and pore-lining NTH (PLN). Upon treatment with a water-soluble PIP2 analog, the conformational equilibrium shifted from GCN to PLN in a dose-dependent manner, resulting in a decrease in the pore-occluding density and an increase in the open probability. The PIP2 head interacts closely with basic residues in the membrane opening between neighboring protomers and the cytoplasmic loop (CL). These ionic interactions strengthen the binding of CL to a transmembrane helix, which consequently inhibits the GCN conformation through steric hindrance. This study provides structural insights into the mechanisms underlying the opening of Cx43 GJCh.
ICTs and Industrial Efficiency under Borrowing Constraints in South Africa
Authors: Mazorodze Brian
Published: September 2024

In theory, borrowing constraints improve long run industrial efficiency through driving out inefficient firms and retaining efficient ones. The short run explanation is unclear at best since the exiting of inefficient firms can be matched by the entrance of similarly inefficient ones. How do borrowing constraints relate with industrial efficiency under these circumstances? This paper proposes that borrowing constraints can enhance industrial efficiency in the short run through encouraging the use of ICTs to improve labour productivity. Results from 42 manufacturing industries observed between 2009 and 2022 in South Africa support this proposition. ICTs increase the efficiency of inefficient and credit constrained industries. The effect increases with labour productivity, underscoring the importance of intensifying the use of ICTs in credit constrained, labour intensive and low performing industries facing binding borrowing constraints. Credit-constrained industries that stand to benefit more from ICTs are mostly labour-intensive, and they include textiles, paper and paper products, plastic products, meat and grain mill products. These results not only inform industrial policy, given the currently small share of ICT stock, but also set the groundwork for future research exploring the underlying mechanisms through which ICTs affect industrial efficiency in the short run under credit market rigidities.
JEL Codes: G14, G20, L16, L52, O3
Fish waste valorization: protein hydrolysate as sustainable nitrogen and nutrients for production of carotenogenic yeasts biomass.
Authors: Palma Andres Arruebarrena Di , Turina Yanina , Naveira Rocío Isla , Kulisz Neonila , Pereyra Cintia Mariana , Casalongué Claudia Anahí , Massa Agueda Elena
Published: September 2024

Global fisheries and aquaculture production reached a record of 178 Mt in 2020. It is forecast that production will rise to 200 Mt by 2029, representing an increase of 25 Mt (14%). However, challenges arise with this increase like fish waste that comprising about two-thirds of total fish production and leading to economic and environmental concerns. The emergence of the bio-based circular economy is explored as a solution to manage fish wastes sustainably and biorefinery approach plays a central role in transforming industrial by-products into value-added products. An alternative to managing fish wastes is the production of fish protein hydrolysates, which contain proteins, oligopeptides and free amino acid, among other nutritional and functional compounds, with many technological applications. The species utilized in this study to produce fish protein hydrolysates was the chondrichthyan Mustelus schmitti, a specie caught by both artisanal and commercial fisheries in Argentina and Uruguay but in vulnerable exploitation due to its life cycle which compromised its fishery sustainability. In this scenario, complete biomass utilization of the already harvested individuals has been proposed encouraging maximal and sustainable use of M. schmitti fishing resources. Fish protein hydrolysates supplemented with dextrose was used as the sole nutrition source for the growth of a carotenogenic red yeast Rhodotorula glutinis capable of producing carotenoids tolurene and torularhodin. Our results indicate that fish protein hydrolysates from M. schmitti is able to support the growth of R. glutinis as the sole nutritional source and enhance carotenoid production compared with laboratory reference culture media.
Phylogeny, historical biogeography and climate niche differentiation in extant species of Ceratophryidae (Anura, Hyloidea) frogs in South America
Authors: van der Kamp Arjen A. W. , Ortega-Andrade H. Mauricio
Published: September 2024

Ceratophryidae
is a family of frogs containing twelve extant species distributed in South America. Several studies have been carried out concerning the systematics, morphology, karyotypes, and behaviour within this monophyletic family. However, little is known about the historical biogeography and the divergence in time of this group. Here, we present an updated phylogeny, along with a calibrated chronogram, to analyse the historical biogeographical pattern and climate niche differentiation among extant species of Ceratophryidae (Anura: Hyloidea) frogs in South America. A phylogeny based on morphological and genetic data was obtained from 256 morphological characters, six mitochondrial and eight nuclear genes for up to a total of 8428 characters in the homological matrix. Our results indicate that the genus Ceratophrys is sister to the clade Chacophrys + Lepidobatrachus. The divergence of the crown group of Ceratophryidae is estimated to have occurred 19.2 Ma at the beginning of the Miocene, with recent cladogenetic events related to the late Miocene (10.18–13.70 Ma) and the Pliocene (~5.3–2.6 Ma). Moreover, the Cerrado region is estimated to be the ancestral area of the family, as well for the genera Chacophrys and Lepidobatrachus. In addition, temperature seasonality and annual precipitation play a major role in the niche differentiation of extant species within Ceratophryidae. In conclusion, our data suggest multiple dispersal and vicariance events originating from the Cerrado region in the early Miocene, and recognize the role of the environment in the differentiation of the ecological niches among extant species of this family in South America.

Ceratophryidae
is hypothesized to have originated in the semi-arid Cerrado region in the early Miocene (~19.2 million years ago), from where species have diversified by independent dispersal and vicariance events across other South American regions.

Ceratophrys
frogs are phylogenetically recovered as the sister taxon to the clade comprising Chacophrys and Lepidobatrachus.

Three lineages of Lepidobatrachus and four lineages from Ceratophrys diverged in the Pliocene, around 5.3 to 2.6 million years ago.

Niche differentiation among extant species of Ceratophryidae appears to reflect roles for temperature seasonality and annual precipitation.