bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Emergence of ferromagnetism at the onset of moiré Kondo breakdown
Authors: Mak Kin Fai , Zhao Wenjin , Shen Bowen , Tao Zui , Kim Sunghoon , Knuppel Patrick , Han Zhongdong , Zhang Yichi , Chowdhury Debanjan , Shan Jie , Watanabe Kenji , Taniguchi Takashi
Published: October 2023

The interaction of a lattice of localized magnetic moments with a sea of conduction electrons in Kondo lattice models induces rich quantum phases of matter, such as Fermi liquids with heavily renormalized electronic quasiparticles, quantum critical non-Fermi liquid metals and unconventional superconductors, among others 1–4. The recent demonstration of moiré Kondo lattices has opened the door to investigate the Kondo problem with continuously tunable parameters 5–10. Although a heavy Fermi liquid phase has been identified in moiré Kondo lattices, the magnetic phases and Kondo breakdown transitions remain unexplored. Here we report a density-tuned Kondo destruction in AB-stacked MoTe2/WSe2 moiré bilayers by combining magneto transport and optical studies. As the itinerant carrier density decreases, the Kondo temperature decreases. At a critical density, we observe a heavy Fermi liquid to insulator transition, and a nearly concomitant emergence of ferromagnetic order. The observation is consistent with the scenario of a ferromagnetic Anderson insulator and suppression of the Kondo screening effect. Our results pave the path for inducing other exotic quantum phase transitions in moiré Kondo lattices 6–15.
Mechanism of a deterministic compliant figuring process (CFP) in Ni-P surface formation considering the robustness of the tool influence function: modeling and experimental investigation
Authors: Li Yuhao , Li Guo , Xue Jiadai , Ding Fei , Wang Bo
Published: October 2023

Deterministic small-tool polishing is paramount to fabricating ultra-precise aspheric X-ray optical components with the precise dwell time algorithm employed to remove the surface material in this procedure. However, the sub-aperture polishing removal function introduces surface ripple characteristics and degrades optical performance due to its narrower full width at half maximum, reducing the volume removal rate and inducing the surface high-spatial frequency and mid-spatial frequency error. It is urgent to insert flexibility control into deterministic small-tool polishing to enhance the adaptive capacity of tools to curvature variations and to obtain stable Gaussian-like tool influence functions. This paper explored the surface finishing removal mechanism based on a compliant figuring process, which verified the robustness and removal efficiency of the tool influence function for the planar and various curvatures of the Ni-P surface. Initially, a flexible head with in-situ correction of high slurry absorption and retention capacity on a self-developed six-axis ultra-precision figuring machine was selected as the figuring tool. Based on the compliant figuring process removal mechanism with three removal regimes, the relative velocity and contact pressure model were established. Meanwhile, an orthogonal experiment utilizing the compliant tool to figuring the planar specimen surface was carried out on the figuring testing machine, analyzing the impact of the removal function on the surface roughness and the form accuracy, and a pre-experiment was conducted to confirm the validity of the model. Furthermore, the orthogonal analysis of the variance approach was implemented to analyze the weight of the influencing factors of the compliant figuring process and to obtain the optimal process parameters for a stable Gaussian-like distribution removal function. As a result, the material removal kernel was sensitive to the offset accounting for 40%, and the error was 8% in the predicted value of the volume removal rate under the optimal parameter conditions. The magnitude trend of the mid-frequency error was suppressed, and the frequency error was converted to facilitate the subsequent processing in the curve of 1-power spectral density. Finally, the stability of figuring variable curvature large optics was delved into, the effect on the form accuracy and the optical performance with the variation of the residence time distribution, including the matching relationship between the full-width at the half of the maximum and spatial wavelength. From the perspective of optical performance, the mid-frequency ripple of the optics element is effectively enhanced from 2.4nm PV to 1.8nm PV following the second iteration and the half-power diameter of the multilayer film optics is promoted from 54.26 arcsec to 41.77 arcsec via the star-point approach and the visible light observation approach.
Breastfeeding Support among Healthcare Workers in Nigeria
Authors: Alao Michael Abel , Ibrahim Olayinka Rasheed , Briggs Christopher Datonye , Yekini Sakiru Abiodun , Nri-Ezedi Chisom Adaobi , Sotimehin Sikirat Adetoun , Olasinde Yetunde Toyin , Aliu Rasaki , Borokinni Ayodeji Mathew , Elo-Ilo Jacinta Chinyere , Bello Oyeronke Olubunmi , Diala Michael Udochukwu , Olaniyi-George Joyce Foluke , Oluwatoyosi Temilade , Usman Hadiza Ashiru , Tongo Oluwakemi Oluwatoyin
Published: October 2023

BackgroundThe exclusive breastfeeding rate in Sub-Saharan Africa is abysmally low, and based on current trends, achieving the World Health Organization's (WHO) global nutrition goal of a 50% exclusive breastfeeding rate by 2025 will require an additional three decades.MethodsThis is a cross-sectional study involving healthcare workers (HCWs) providing direct care to breastfeeding mothers in six geopolitical zones in Nigeria. HCWs were recruited using a stratified random sampling method, with a minimum sample size of 1,537. Data was collected through validated-interviewer-administered-questionnaires.ResultsThe mean age of the 1,294 study respondents is 35.2±10.0 years, with a M: F of 1:3. Although general breastfeeding knowledge was high (91.7%), specific knowledge such as breastfeeding in mothers with breast cancer (13.4%) and hepatitis B (59.4%) was inadequate. Only 18.9% correctly identified the laid-back and cross-cradle breastfeeding positions. Negative attitudes towards breastfeeding support were associated with being a female HCWs [AOR of 1.735 (95% CI: 1.287, 2.698)], and a doctor [AOR of 2.079, 95% CI: 1.085,3.948)]. Suboptimal instructional support practice was associated with lower educational levels [AOR of 4.099 (95% CI 1.276,13.161)], being a doctor [AOR of 3.469 (95% CI 1.531,7.862. Optimal general knowledge of breastfeeding was less associated with having a positive attitude toward breastfeeding support [AOR of 0.685 (95% CI 0.532, 0.881].ConclusionHCWs displayed Optimal overall knowledge of breastfeeding, but specific areas such as breastfeeding in relation to maternal illnesses, and positioning were lagging. A targeted program is necessary to enhance breastfeeding support knowledge and attitudes, particularly among female HCWs and physicians.
PITX2 functions as a transcription factor for GPX4 and protects pancreatic cancer cells from ferroptosis
Authors: Wang Zhiliang Wang , Wu Di , Zhang Yue , Chen Weibo , Yang Yang , Yang Yue , Zu Guangchen , An Yong , Yu Xianjun , Qin Yi , Xu Xiaowu , Chen Xuemin
Published: October 2023

Background
Ferroptosis inhibits tumor progression in pancreatic cancer cells, while PITX2 is known to function as a pro-oncogenic factor in various tumor types, protecting them from ferroptosis and thereby promoting tumor progression. In this study, we sought to investigate the regulatory role of PITX2 in tumor cell ferroptosis within the context of pancreatic cancer.
Methods
We conducted PITX2 knockdown experiments using lentiviral infection in two pancreatic cancer cell lines, namely PANC-1 and BxPC-3. We assessed protein expression through immunoblotting and mRNA expression through RT-PCR. To confirm PITX2 as a transcription factor for GPX4, we employed Chromatin Immunoprecipitation (ChIP) and Dual-luciferase assays. Furthermore, we used flow cytometry to measure reactive oxygen species (ROS), lipid peroxidation, and apoptosis and employed confocal microscopy to assess mitochondrial membrane potential. Additionally, electron microscopy was used to observe mitochondrial structural changes and evaluate PITX2's regulation of ferroptosis in pancreatic cancer cells.
Results
Our findings demonstrated that PITX2, functioning as a transcription factor for GPX4, promoted GPX4 expression, thereby exerting an inhibitory effect on ferroptosis in pancreatic cancer cells and consequently promoting tumor progression. Moreover, PITX2 enhanced the invasive and migratory capabilities of pancreatic cancer cells by activating the WNT signaling pathway. Knockdown of PITX2 increased ferroptosis and inhibited the proliferation of PANC-1 and BxPC-3 cells. Notably, the inhibitory effect on ferroptosis resulting from PITX2 overexpression in these cells could be countered using RSL3, an inhibitor of GPX4.
Conclusion
Overall, our study established PITX2 as a transcriptional regulator of GPX4 that could promote tumor progression in pancreatic cancer by reducing ferroptosis. These findings suggest that PITX2 may serve as a potential therapeutic target for combating ferroptosis in pancreatic cancer.
Thermal comfort of users of a park located in one of the hottest cities in Brazil
Authors: Justi Ana Clara Alves , Nogueira Marta Cristina de Jesus Albuquerque , Santos Fávia Maria de Moura , Zavitoski Érico Vinicius da Silva , de Paulo Sérgio Roberto , Justi Gabriel Henrique
Published: October 2023

Carried out for the first time, this study assessed the microclimate and thermal comfort of users of the Das Águas Park in Cuiabá, which is one of the hottest cities in Brazil. Air temperature, relative humidity, globe temperature, and wind speed were measured using moving transects at 10 points on the park’s walking track for a total of 365 measurements. Mobile transect data were validated using an official weather meteorological station and thermal comfort data were simulated using Rayman software. Regarding the characterization of the microclimate, the air temperature ranged from 17.5 to 34.6°C and the relative humidity from 42.6 to 84.8%, with wind speed ≤ 1.6 m s-1. The park’s walking track also had points without thermal comfort, most of which had strong heat stress and the Universal Thermal Climate Index (UTCI) values ranging from 17.8–38.8°C. The findings of this study reinforce the importance of research that assists the construction of new urban parks in cities with extreme climates, in order to mitigate the effects of urbanization on their microclimate and on the thermal comfort of the park’s human population.
Neuroprotection afforded by an enriched Mediterranean-like diet is modified by exercise in a rat model of cerebral ischemia
Authors: Romaus-Sanjurjo Daniel , Castañón María , López-Arias Esteban , Custodia Antía , Martín Cristina , Ouro Alberto , López-Cancio Elena , Sobrino Tomás
Published: October 2023

Ischemic stroke is an important cause of mortality and disability worldwide. Given that current treatments do not allow a remarkable better outcome in patients after stroke, it is mandatory to seek new approaches preventing stroke and/or complementing the current treatments or ameliorating the ischemic insult. Multiple preclinical and clinical studies highlighted the potential beneficial roles of exercise and a Mediterranean diet following stroke. Here, we examined whether a Mediterranean-like diet supplemented with hydroxytyrosol with/without physical exercise enhances the good outcome of rats submitted to a transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (tMCAO). We also assessed a potential synergistic effect with physical exercise. We found that an enriched Mediterranean-like diet decreased infarct/edema volumes, delayed acute immune response (modulates cytokines/chemokines levels) and increased acute functional recovery after ischemic injury. Strikingly, although physical exercise did improve cellular and some functional outcomes compared to control animals, it did not synergize with the Mediterranean-like diet but even impaired the positive short-term outcomes. Overall, these data provide the first preclinical evidence that an enriched Mediterranean diet mediates neuroprotection probably by the modulation of cytokines/chemokines levels downwards that eventually has an important role during the acute phase following ischemic damage.
A mixed smoothed finite element limit analysis formulation for static and seismic collapse loads
Authors: Nguyen H. C. , Zhang X. , Nazem M.
Published: October 2023

This paper introduces a novel stress-based upper bound limit analysis formulation based on nodal integrations for calculating static and seismic collapse loads in geotechnical engineering. Unlike the classical upper bound limit analysis, our newly proposed formulation is expressed in terms of the stress fields rather than displacement fields. Additionally, the determination of kinematically admissible displacement fields is achieved through duality theory. We demonstrate the robustness and accuracy of our numerical scheme through benchmark examples involving static and seismic collapse loads, such as bearing capacity and tunnel stability. Furthermore, we incorporate a simple non-associated plasticity scheme into the analyses to assess dilation-dependent collapse loads. The newly proposed numerical scheme is then utilised for assessing the influence of the dilation on the static and seismic collapse loads and its failure mechanism, giving some new valuable insights into the dilation-dependent collapse loads under seismic conditions.
LATCHES – A memory aide for the principles of attachment for effective breastfeeding: Findings of a regional pilot in the Northeast of England and North Cumbria
Authors: Shotton Lynette Harland , Elliot Cheryl , Nunn Roslyn , Lane Kathryn
Published: October 2023

Background
Breastfeeding rates have increased significantly in the last 10 years but more needs to be done to achieve the global target for 70% of mothers to exclusively breastfeed for the first 6 months by 2030 [1]. The UK has some of the lowest rates of breastfeeding, particularly in the Northeast of England, and as such more needs to be done to support mothers to breastfeed for as long as they would like to.
Methods
Key breastfeeding practitioners were brought together to select one of two memory aides for principles of attachment for effective breastfeeding. The selected memory aide was piloted with 57 participants with a key role in promotion and support of breastfeeding in the Northeast of England and North Cumbria.
Findings
Participants reported mixed views about the proposed memory aide with more experienced staff reporting more favourable opinions than student midwives and early years practitioners.
Discussion and outcomes
Findings of the pilot indicate there is a role for a mnemonic to help practitioners understand, recall and retain theory around attachment for effective breastfeeding but the piloted memory aide needs further development.
Conclusion
Using data from the pilot the memory aide was refined and the final version LATCHES agreed for wider dissemination. Future research is needed to understand its wider impact on breastfeeding practice.
Valorization of PES textile waste through glycolysis and aminolysis using bimetallic ZnO and carbon nitride nanocomposites
Authors: Anbarasu Murugan , Vinitha Viswanathan , Preeyangha Mani , Neppolian Bernaurdshaw , Sivamurugan Vajiravelu
Published: October 2023

Polyester (PES) textile fabrics are chemically recycled through aminolysis, and glycolysis catalyzed by nanocomposites composed of Sb (or) In-doped ZnO and g-C3N4 nanocomposites prepared by the wet-impregnation method. The nanocomposites were characterized by XRD, UV‒Vis, FT-IR, and SEM-EDS techniques. X-ray diffraction patterns as well as SEM EDS showed the presence of amorphous g-C3N4 and doped ZnO. The extent of the optical band gaps of ZnO observed in doping with g-C3N4. The optical band gap of 3.31 eV of ZnO was reduced to 2.55 to 2.65 eV after doping with g-C3N4. SEM morphological analysis showed a sheet-like structure along with ZnO nanoparticles adsorbed on the surface of g-C3N4. Glycolysis and aminolysis of colored PES waste produced BHET and BHETA, respectively, as pure monomers in excellent yield (>90%). FT-IR, MS, 1H, and 13C NMR were used to confirm the formation of BHET and BHETA.
Comparison and selection of ground motion prediction equations for the Sichuan-Yunnan area, southwest China
Authors: Liu Jingwei , Douglas John
Published: October 2023

The Sichuan-Yunnan area is one of the most seismically active regions in China. As ground-motion models form a key component of seismic hazard analysis, it is important to select (or develop) appropriate models for this area. The increasing number of digital ground-motion records of earthquakes in this area has allowed the development of local ground motion prediction equations (GMPEs). This study compares and, later, recommends appropriate GMPEs for the Sichuan-Yunnan area. We first evaluate the inherent quality of local GMPEs, with respect to their underlying datasets, the variables used and their functional form, to determine a set of candidate GMPEs. Then we investigate how well the predictions from the GMPEs match observations computed from strong-motion records of recent earthquakes in this area. The fit between predictions and observations varies significantly amongst the GMPEs. The results suggest that some recent local GMPEs would lead to biased ground-motion estimates due to limitations of their underlying datasets and functional forms. Based on both evaluations of inherent quality and compatibility with observations, only one local GMPE is recommended. A comparison of the predictions from three widely-used non-local GMPEs indicates that ground motions in the Sichuan-Yunnan area appear more variable than those in other regions but that predictions from these non-local GMPEs are generally unbiased. We recommend use of a mixture of robust local and non-local GMPEs within seismic hazard analyses to capture the epistemic uncertainty in ground-motion prediction for this area.
Comparison of transcriptomic and phenomic profiles for the prediction of drug mechanism
Authors: Baek In Yeop , Go Taewon , Chung Ting Ting , Kim Dongil , Lee Seung Jin
Published: October 2023

Transcriptomic and phenomic profiling assays analyze drug perturbations to provide unbiased information regarding the mechanisms of action (MOAs) of drugs. However, few studies have compared the bioinformatics contents derived from these assays. This study investigated the transcriptomic and phenomic features in terms of diversities and MOA prediction. From publicly available L1000 and Cell Painting datasets, transcriptomic and phenomic features for 274 compounds annotated with 30 MOAs were prepared for analyses. Feature-extraction analyses with tSNE and Isomap algorithms showed that the compound distribution based on transcriptomic features was more dispersed than that based on phenomic features. Pairwise comparison across compounds showed high correlative clusters in phenomic feature heatmap. To explore the predictive potential for the MOA of compounds, transcriptomic and/or phenomic features were used to train machine learning models. XGBoost and Extra Tree models resulted in overfitting, whereas the KNN and Adaboost models yielded a relatively lower performance. Notably, the glucocorticoid receptor agonist was the class of MOA with the highest predictability based on transcriptomic and/or phenomic features. In conclusion, L1000 features were more diverse than the Cell Painting features. Machine learning analysis suggested new similar pairs of compounds and predicted certain classes among MOAs more accurately than others.
Nanoscale friction behavior between montmorillonite and quartz: considering effects of cations, normal load and sliding velocity
Authors: He Zhenyu , Zheng Yuan-Yuan , Yin Zhen-Yu , Wei Pengchang
Published: October 2023

Nanoscale tribology between quartz and montmorillonite interface in soft clay is crucial for comprehending their engineering mechanism, which remains unclear in microscale. In this study, Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulation method was employed to investigate the nanoscale frictional properties between quartz and montmorillonite at dry state, where montmorillonite was set as substrate and quartz as sliding slider. The effects of normal load, interlayer cations, and sliding velocity on the frictional behavior were investigated and discussed. The simulation results indicated that the stick-slip effect during friction process was gradually weakened with increasing sliding velocity or decreasing normal load. The shear stress increased with the increasing normal load, exhibiting an approximately linear relationship. The order of friction coefficients of montmorillonite-quartz with different interlayer cations is Ca2+ > Zn2+ > Ni2+ > Pb2+ > Li+ > Rb+ > Cs+ > K+, illustrating that the friction coefficient of montmorillonite-quartz systems with divalent cations was greater than that with monovalent cations. The friction angle of montmorillonite-quartz with different interlayer cations vary from 6.96° to 17.28°. Moreover, the friction load roses linearly with the rising sliding velocity, indicating that the nanoscale friction is velocity-dependent.
Preparation of Zn-BTC with Different Morphologies of simple synthetic graphene loading and Their Supercapacitor Performance
Authors: tan shangrong , yao zhuo , Liu Zechen , Li Lili
Published: October 2023

The remarkable advantages of supercapacitors, such as high power density, fast charge-discharge rate, and long cycle life, have attracted considerable attention. Metal-organic framework materials (MOFs) have been widely utilized in the field of energy conversion and storage due to their enormous specific surface area and tunable pore structures. However, the poor conductivity of MOFs hinders their satisfactory electrochemical performance when used as electrode materials for supercapacitors. To address this issue, a graphene-supported Zn-BTC metal-organic framework material with different morphologies was successfully synthesized using a simple ultrasonic oscillation method and a one-step solvothermal method. The synthesized one-dimensional rod-shaped Zn-BTC material was uniformly anchored on the wrinkled graphene nanosheet layer, exhibiting excellent capacitance performance with a specific capacitance of 201.3 C g-1 (at 1 A g-1), surpassing that of graphene-supported two-dimensional sheet-like Zn-BTC (152.6 C g-1), graphene-supported three-dimensional spherical Zn-BTC (139.6 C g-1), graphene (108.2 C g-1), and one-dimensional rod-shaped Zn-BTC (63.5 C g-1). By assembling symmetric supercapacitors using graphene-supported one-dimensional rod-shaped Zn-BTC, a maximum energy density of 4.55 Wh kg-1 was achieved at a power density of 104.17 W kg-1, with a specific capacitance retention of 93.26% after 2000 charge-discharge cycles at a current density of 1 A g-1.
Free vibration behaviour of cracked composite sandwich plate: Meta-modelling approach (HOXFEM-ANN)
Authors: Dwivedi Kishan , Raza Ahmed , Pathak Himanshu
Published: October 2023

Sandwich plates are commonly subjected to transverse shear force during their service and exhibit vibration phenomena. The presence of geometrical discontinuities or fabrication defects like cracks, pores, and holes in the sandwich structure can significantly reduce its stiffness and influence the natural frequency of the plate. This paper proposed a meta-modeling approach based on the higher-order extended finite element method (HOXFEM) and artificial neural network (ANN) to predict natural frequency response of a cracked sandwich plate. A higher-order shear deformation theory (HSDT) is employed for laminated sandwich plates. In the presented HOXFEM method, crack tip enrichment functions are revised for better computational accuracy and computational time. Only four crack tip enrichment functions are proposed in HOXFEM, instead of the eight enrichment functions used in classical XFEM approach. These four enrichment functions consist of two enrichment functions for displacement degrees of freedom and two enrichment functions for rotational degrees of freedom. Further, optimized neural network architecture (4-10-10-10-1) is constructed with data obtained from HOXFEM simulation. The efficacy of the proposed methodology is established through the application of various numerical examples. These examples include different crack sizes and various small cracks/holes configurations within the sandwich plate under different boundary conditions.
Prediction and validation of hub-genes related to major depressive disorder based on co-expression network analysis
Authors: Jalili Shirin , Shirzad Hadi , Nezhad Seyed Amin Mousavi
Published: October 2023

Background
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is generally among the most prevalent psychiatric illnesses. Significant advances have occurred in comprehension of the MDD biology. However, it is still essential to recognize new biomarkers for potential targeted treatment of patients with MDD.
Methods and Results
The present work deals with in-depth comparative computational analyses to obtain new insights, such as gene ontology and pathway enrichment analyses and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) through gene expression dataset. The expression of selected hub-genes was validated in MDD patients using quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR). We found that MDD progression includes the turquoise module genes (p-value = 1e-18, r = 0.97). According to gene enrichment analysis, the cytokine-mediated signaling pathway mostly involves genes in this module. By selection of four candidate hub-genes (IL6, NRG1, TNF, and BDNF), RT-qPCR validation was performed. A significant NRG1 downregulation was revealed by the RT-qPCR outcomes in MDD. In MDD patients, TNF and IL6 expression were considerably higher, and no considerable differences were found in the BDNF expression. Ultimately, based on ROC analyses, IL6, NRG1, and TNF had a higher MDD diagnostic performance.
Conclusions
Therefore, our study presents information on the intricate association between MDD development and cytokine-mediated signaling thus providing new rationales to develop new therapeutic approaches.
Association between Doppler ultrasound of the superior mesenteric artery and different types of shock in critically ill patients
Authors: Pu Hao , Li Wen , Wang Gui , Zhou Shu-Jun
Published: October 2023

Background
Reduced effective circulating blood volume and impaired peripheral perfusion are significant factors in the development of shock. we investigated the differences in superior mesenteric artery (SMA) Doppler ultrasound parameters among different types of shock. Additionally, we evaluated Whether SMA Doppler ultrasound is associated with lactate levels and the ability to predict hyperlactatemia in patients with shock.
Methods
This prospective observational study was conducted at a tertiary general and teaching hospital in China. From January 2023 to August 2023, we included patients who were diagnosed with shock upon admission or developed shock during their hospital stay. At the same time, patients with stable hemodynamics, no use of vasoactive drugs and normal lactate levels were used as a control group. We collected SMA Doppler ultrasound parameters, including Peak Systolic Velocity (PSV), End Diastolic Velocity (EDV), Resistance Index (RI), pulsatility index (PI), Time-Averaged Mean Velocity (TAMV), and Blood Flow (BF).
Results
We evaluated a total of 85 patients, including 63 patients with different types of shock and 22 in the control group. In the cardiogenic shock group, SMA PSV, TAMV, and BF were lower compared to the other groups. There was no significant difference in SMA RI and PI between the different types of shock groups, but both were significantly lower than the control group. Lactate levels was correlation with SMA RI and PI. Based on the lactate level at the time of measurement, we divided the patients into the normal and hyperlactatemia groups. The hyperlactatemia group had lower SMA RI (0.72 ± 0.09 vs. 0.81 ± 0.05, P < 0.0001) and SMA PI (1.60 ± 0.48 vs. 2.22 ± 0.49, P < 0.0001) compared to the lactate normal group. The cut-off value of SMA RI for predicting hyperlactatemia was ≤ 0.78 with a sensitivity of 0.81 and a specificity of 0.79. Similarly, the cut-off value of SMA PI for predicting hyperlactatemia was ≤ 1.79 with a sensitivity of 0.87 and a specificity of 0.74.
Conclusions
SMA Doppler ultrasound plays a significant role in identifying various types of shock, particularly cardiogenic shock. The measurements of SMA RI and PI are correlated with lactate levels, have a positive predictive value for hyperlactatemia and provide guidance for fluid resuscitation in patients with shock in the future.
Online Learning in Supporting Students' Procedural Abilities Viewed from a Constructivist Approach
Authors: Asmara Jimi
Published: October 2023

The aim of the research is to explain the perspective of online learning in supporting students' procedural abilities from a constructivist perspective. This research uses a literature review methodology to describe topics about online learning, procedural abilities and constructivist theory. Scopus article search engines such as Springer Nature, SAGE, Taylor & Francis and Google Scholar provide the collected literature. There are 350 articles covering the search topic. There were 78 additional articles that met the research variables. Selected articles were evaluated together with 47 references. Online learning has features that conform to the fundamental principles of constructivism. The philosophy of constructivism encourages a learning process that places students as the source of the process through concrete empirical and systematic procedural activities. Meanwhile, online learning provides a new model for how the learning process can be carried out without face to face, and can increase students' abilities, especially in terms of practicums which require procedural abilities in each learning process.
PAPSS2 inhibits proliferation and metastasis of papillary thyroid cancer cells by mediating ferroptosis and disulfidptosis through the AKT signaling pathway
Authors: Li Han , Zhang Fuxing , Huang Caoxin , Liu Qiuhong , Li Jia , He Weiwei , Zhang Xiaofang , Gao Jing , Li Ganfeng , Li Xuejun
Published: October 2023

Papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) is the most common type of thyroid cancer(Derwich, Sykutera et al. 2023). Unfortunately, lymph node metastasis often occur in early stage of PTC, while the specific mechanism is still unclear(Wei, Wei et al. 2023). Previous in vivo study showed that PAPSS2 is a rate-limiting enzyme of the sulfation pathway. Interestingly, it has been known that the expression of PAPSS2 in PTC biopsy samples was significantly lower than that in paracancerous tissues. Bioinformatics analysis and preliminary study suggested that PAPSS2 might affect the metabolism of glycosaminoglycan sulfation and damage the extracellular matrix barrier by inhibiting the sulfation pathway, thus providing a suitable microenvironment for tumor metastasis. Our study showed that PAPSS2 could regulate ferroptosis and disulfidptosis of thyroid cancer cells through regulating the AKT signaling pathway and thereby induce cytoskeletal changes and lymph node metastasis. Our findings not only identified a novel therapeutic target but also shed light upon a better understanding of the pathogenesis of PTC.
Pediatric perioperative mortality in Southeastern Nigeria—a multicenter, prospective study
Authors: Nwankwo Elochukwu P , Onyejesi Daniel C , Chukwu Isaac S , Modekwe Victor I , Nwangwu Emmanuel I , Ezomike Uchechukwu O , Omebe Sunday E , Ekenze Sebastian O , Aniwada Elias C
Published: October 2023

Background
The perioperative mortality rate is a key indicator of the quality of surgical services in low and middle-income countries. (LMIC).
Objective
To determine the perioperative mortality rate of pediatric surgical conditions and the predictive factors in Southeastern Nigeria.
Methodology
A prospective, multicenter study of peri-operative mortalities occurring in children under 18 years in five tertiary hospitals in Southeastern Nigeria over nine months was conducted. All-cause and case-specific in-hospital peri-operative mortality rates, and predictive factors were identified. The mortality rate was expressed as percentages with a 95% confidence interval. The data were analyzed using SPSS 26.
Results
A total of 775 patients underwent anesthesia or surgery, with 28 deaths. The perioperative mortality rates within 24 hours and 30 days after the procedure were 1.94% (95% CI = 1.09–3.17) and 1.17% (95% CI = 0.91–2.91) respectively. The mortality rates was 100% for Gastroschisis and ruptured omphalocele with overwhelming sepsis being the major cause of death (53.6%). Significant determinants of mortality were a higher ASA status (AOR) = 13.944, 95% CI = 1.509-128.851, p = 0.020], sedation without ventilatory support (AOR) = 15.295, 95% CI = 3.304–70.800, p = 0.001] and associated comorbidities (AOR) = 65.448, 95% CI = 11.244-380.962, p = 0.001].
Conclusion
The pediatric peri-operative mortality rate in Southeastern Nigeria is high for Gastroschisis. Associated comorbidities, higher ASA status, and sedation without ventilatory support were significant predictors of mortality.
An Intracortical Microprobe with Adaptive Stiffness
Authors: Sharafkhani Naser , Long John M. , Adams Scott D. , Kouzani Abbas Z.
Published: October 2023

Utilising a flexible intracortical microprobe to record/stimulate neurons minimises the incompatibility between the implanted microprobe and the brain, reducing tissue damage due to the brain micromotion. Applying bio-dissolvable coating materials temporarily makes a flexible microprobe stiff to tolerate the penetration force during insertion. However, the inability to adjust the dissolving time after the microprobe contact with the cerebrospinal fluid may lead to inaccuracy in the microprobe positioning. Furthermore, since the dissolving process is irreversible, any subsequent positioning error cannot be corrected by re-stiffening the microprobe. This study proposes a compliant intracortical microprobe whose equivalent elastic modulus increases because of the axial force applied by an inserter. Thus, instant switching between stiff and soft modes can be accomplished as many times as necessary to ensure high-accuracy positioning while causing minimal tissue damage. The equivalent elastic modulus of the microprobe during operation is ≈ 23 kPa, which is ≈ 42% less than the existing counterpart, resulting in ≈ 46% less maximum strain generated on the surrounding tissue under brain longitudinal motion. The microprobe with adaptive stiffness and surrounding neural tissue are simulated during insertion and operation to confirm the efficiency of the design. Two-photon polymerisation technology is utilised to 3D print the proposed microprobe, which is inserted into a lamb’s brain without buckling.
Topography of Black Detective Fiction: Focusing on Himes’ Harlem Cycle
Authors:   British And American Language And Literature Association Of Korea, Gye Joengmeen
Published: October 2023

Chester Himes’ Harlem Cycle, the series of black detective fiction comprising nine novels, made him one of the most prominent black detective fiction writers in the U. S. His representation of Harlem in the series, however, has been criticized as a sensational and unreal geography distorted for a popular market. This paper intends to verify the validity of the criticism regarding Himes’s representation of Harlem. Examining the history of residential segregation by race in the U. S. cities and the resulting condition of Black residential areas, this paper proves that his representation of Harlem does not create a landscape of imaginary Harlem but provides a realistic record of Harlem. It further argues that Harlem Cycle is not written for commercial purpose but for exposing the racism in the housing policies of the U. S. government and accusing the greed of white capitalists in the urban renewal projects. In the later novels of Harlem Cycle, Himes’ representation of Harlem transforms from an internal colony of whites to the site of Black riots. Sick and tired of racial segregation and exploitative redevelopment, Black people in Harlem begin a fierce struggle. Moving from an area of poverty and crime to a war zone in representing Harlem, Himes warns against the possible future of the violent clash between Blacks and the ruling whites.
Comparing ‘good English classes’ by Korean university students in face-to-face, real-time online, and recorded online classes
Authors:   British And American Language And Literature Association Of Korea, Yi Jong-il
Published: October 2023

The Covid-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on education, resulting in a transition from traditional face-to-face classes to online classes. This present study investigated learners' class preferences based on their learning styles, comparing face-to-face, real-time online, and recorded online classes. Furthermore, the interviews were conducted to collect the perceived qualities of a “quality class” based on classroonm features as experienced by students. The participants' learning styles were assessed using Felder and Solomon's Index of Learning Styles Questionnaire and Among the 12 female participants, 10 different learning styles were identified. All participants expressed a preference for face-to-face classes mainly due to the opportunities for mutual interaction. In particular, Reflective, Sensing, and Visual learning styles were more frequently observed. Participants with strong sensing-style preferred the way the instructors used examples of language use, while visual-style learners showed a preference for visual aids such as PowerPoint materials. However, some learners found that their preferred styles did not always align with the class format. Most learners favored receiving detailed assessment rubrics and feedback in class and instructors who shared their experiences. Further research on a larger scale is needed to explore the relationships between learning styles, gender, major, and subject. This research could contribute to the development of more learner-centered class designs.
Renaissance Perspectives on Madness in Ben Jonson’s Bartholomew Fair
Authors:   British And American Language And Literature Association Of Korea, Lee Jungyoung
Published: October 2023

This paper aims to explore Renaissance perspectives on madness in Ben Jonson’s Bartholomew Fair. As Carol Thomas Neely indicated, Renaissance England was fascinated with madness, and this play also reflects an interest in madness. It should be noted that the meaning of madness in the context of the Renaissance was mixed with folly, which implies the characters in Bartholomew Fair were described as fools and madmen. Moreover, the act of these characters heading to the fair is compared to a “voyage”, which reminds us of the “ship of fools” that separated madmen from society during the Renaissance period. This suggests that the Batholomew fair is a place that separates madmen from society, just like the ship of fools. The characters commit “enormity”, which implies folly and madness in the play. The acts of the characters that convey folly and madness are described as evil. This is related to the negative perception of madness in the Middle Ages. But it is worth noting that madness in the Renaissance period was not treated negatively only, and there were positive aspects associated with it as well. Michel Foucault emphasizes the positive aspects of madness, noting that madness is closer to truth and happiness than reason. Erasmus also argues that there is wisdom in the nature of folly. The positive aspects of madness are further highlighted through the voyage of the ship of fools. This is because the madmen on board monopolize the ship, which then becomes a place where madmen enjoy as much freedom as they please. Similarly, the Bartholomew fair is also a place where characters can express folly and madness and enjoy freedom.
Local operator entanglement in spin chains
Authors: Mascot Eric , Nozaki Masahiro , Tezuka Masaki
Published: October 2023

Understanding how and whether local perturbations can affect the entire quantum system is a fundamental step in understanding non-equilibrium phenomena such as thermalization. This knowledge of non-equilibrium phenomena is applicable for quantum computation, as many quantum computers employ non-equilibrium processes for computations. In this paper, we investigate the evolution of bi- and tripartite operator mutual information of the time-evolution operator and the Pauli spin operators in the one-dimensional Ising model with magnetic field and the disordered Heisenberg model to study the properties of quantum circuits. In the Ising model, the early-time evolution qualitatively follows an effective light cone picture, and the late-time value is well described by Page’s value for a random pure state. In the Heisenberg model with strong disorder, we find that many-body localization prevents the information from propagating and being delocalized. We also find an effective Ising Hamiltonian that describes the time evolution of bi- and tripartite operator mutual information for the Heisenberg model in the large disorder regime.
AUDIT COMMITTEE CHARACTERISTICS AND FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE OF MANUFACTURING COMPANIES IN CAMEROON
Authors:   Department of Accounting, Faculty of Social and Management Sciences, University of Buea, P. O. Box 63, Buea, South West Region - Cameroon., Tiesieh Tapang Arzizeh
Published: October 2023

This study examines audit committee characteristics and financial performance of manufacturing companies in Cameroon. The study adopted ex-post facto research design. The population consisted of the 133 manufacturing companies in Cameroon. A sample of 20 companies was used and data collected from secondary sources within the period 2013 to 2022. The data were analysed with the aid of a panel regression analysis. The results showed that audit committee size, expertise, and independence all positively affect financial performance proxy by return on assets, net profit margin and Tobins Q. the study recommends that manufacturing companies should make an effort to add an audit committee that is more educationally diverse and inclusive. This opens up the possibility of doing more risk assessments because audit committee members who are also knowledgeable in accounting have established precedents for better risk assessment and asset management for improved operational performance. Manufacturing firms should strictly abide by the corporate governance guidelines promoted regarding the number of audit committee members, as it has been demonstrated that the more members, the more effective resources in terms of independence and expertise to facilitate an effective audit function disposition for efficient business decisions that will favorably affect financial performance. In maintaining the required number of audit members, manufacturing businesses should always include an equal number of shareholders and managements representatives. This will lead to the formation of an unbiased audit committee that is fair and free from outside interference.
ANALYSIS OF FAN COOLING SPEED, PRINTING SPEED AND LAYER HEIGHT ON PRODUCT GEOMETRY ACCURACY IN 3D PRINTING
Authors:   Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Jember University Jalan Kalimantan No. 37 Jember 68121. Indonesia., Wibowo R. K.K. , Fauzi A. ,   Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Jember University Jalan Kalimantan No. 37 Jember 68121. Indonesia., a Sumarji ,   Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Jember University Jalan Kalimantan No. 37 Jember 68121. Indonesia.
Published: October 2023

Additive manufacturing is a technology that works by making a product from scratch, layer by layer until it becomes a complete product. An example of additive manufacturing is a 3D printer machine. The process sequence on a 3D Printer machine is the initial stage of creating design drawings in computer-aided design (CAD). Next, materialize the design image into a 3D printing machine. To get the best performance on a 3D printing machine, several parameters are set such as setting the product location during the printing process, setting parameters such as bed temperature and nozzle temperature. Polylactic Acid (PLA) is a filament that is widely used because it is easily decomposed so it is more environmentally friendly, because PLA is made from natural materials such as starch which is used for polymerization. The aim of this research is to determine the effect of variations in fan cooling speed, printing speed and layer height on the accuracy of product geometry in 3D printing using PLA material as well as parameter selection to obtain the most optimal results. The results of this research contained 2 significant factors, namely cooling fan speed and layer height and 1 factor that was not significant, namely printing speed. The percentage contribution of fan cooling speed is 39.52%, printing speed 2.99%, and layer height 11.98%. The optimal variables in this research are level 2 fan cooling speed, namely 100%, level 2 printing speed, namely 70 mm/s, and level 1 layer height, namely 0.1 mm.
Enhancing portfolio resilience during crisis periods: Lessons from BRICS indices and multi asset strategies
Authors: Gupta Nupur , Mitra Pradip , Supra Bharath
Published: October 2023

This paper uses Markowitz’s mean-variance model to construct an investment portfolio incorporating multiple assets – BRICS equity indices, Gold, crude oil, bonds, and cryptocurrencies. The optimally created risky portfolios outperform alternative portfolio optimization methods – the naive portfolio and the equal risk contribution portfolio; and established indices – the S&P 500 and the MSCI Emerging Equity Index in terms of metrics – adjusted Sharpe ratio, modified Sharpe ratio, and the modified Value at Risk. The findings are validated across different periods, including the COVID-19 period and the Russian invasion of Ukraine, including various in and out of sample periods. The findings highlight the benefits of portfolio diversity, mainly using BRICS indices, Gold, and Brent Crude oil, and challenge the notion of limited diversification benefits in BRICS indices found in previous studies. This paper further suggests the potential of emerging market bonds ETF as a diversification option during turbulent economic periods and highlights the limitations of cryptocurrencies in optimizing multi asset portfolios. By adopting the recommended multi asset portfolios, investors can enhance their risk-return trade-offs and achieve superior performance compared to the S&P500 and MSCI emerging indices. Lastly, the paper recommends future research opportunities in measuring portfolio performance and hedging strategies considering risk-adjusted return measurements, transaction expenses, and dynamic rebalancing techniques.