bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Data Deserts and Black Boxes: The Impact of Socio-Economic Status on Consumer Profiling
Authors: Neumann Nico , Tucker Catherine E. , Kaplan Levi , Mislove Alan , Sapiezynski Piotr
Published: January 2024

Data brokers use black-box methods to profile and segment individuals for ad targeting, often with mixed success. We present evidence from 5 complementary field tests and 15 data brokers that differences in profiling accuracy and coverage for these attributes mainly depend on who is being profiled. Consumers who are better off—for example, those with higher incomes or living in affluent areas—are both more likely to be profiled and more likely to be profiled accurately. Occupational status (white-collar versus blue-collar jobs), race and ethnicity, gender, and household arrangements often affect the accuracy and likelihood of having profile information available, although this varies by country and whether we consider online or offline coverage of profile attributes. Our analyses suggest that successful consumer-background profiling can be linked to the scope of an individual’s digital footprint from how much time they spend online and the number of digital devices they own. Those who come from lower-income backgrounds have a narrower digital footprint, leading to a “data desert” for such individuals. Vendor characteristics, including differences in profiling methods, explain virtually none of the variation in profiling accuracy for our data, but explain variation in the likelihood of who is profiled. Vendor differences due to unique networks and partnerships also affect profiling outcomes indirectly due to differential access to individuals with different backgrounds. We discuss the implications of our findings for policy and marketing practice.

This paper was accepted by David Simchi-Levi, marketing.

Funding: Financial support from the National Science Foundation [CAREER Award 6923256] and an anonymous panel company is gratefully acknowledged.

Supplemental Material: The web appendix and data files are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2023.4979 .
Management of septic arthritis and prosthetic joint infection
Authors: Sharoff Lokesh , Bowditch Mark , Morgan-Jones Rhidian
Published: January 2024

Management of joint infection is an evolving topic. This article reviews the literature on the management of native and prosthetic joint infection and suggests some areas of improvement in short- and long-term management which could lead to better patient outcomes. Surgical management is the mainstay of treatment for native or prosthetic knee infection and aspiration should only be used for diagnostic purposes. A multidisciplinary team approach and compliance with national guidelines, alongside referral networks and pooling of expertise, should be mandatory to improve patient outcomes.
Building resilience of staff in care homes: preliminary findings of an exploratory study
Authors: Martindale Sheelagh , Will Jill , Wells Julia
Published: January 2024

Background/Aims

Careers in the care home sector have seen innumerable challenges, along with sustaining and growing resilience in the workforce. The aim of this study was to understand the experiences of resilience for care home staff working in one health board area in Scotland.

Methods

In this exploratory study, five care homes with scores of 6 (1 being the lowest quality, 6 being excellent) within any category available from the Care Inspectorate reports over the previous 12 months were selected and staff members were invited to participate in interviews.

Results

A total of four staff members from four care homes agreed to participate. Through thematic analysis, three main themes were identified: emotional factors enhancing resilience in staff within care homes; the value of community and the care home family; and encouragement and meaningful interactions from and with others.

Conclusions

Laughter and happiness for both staff and residents were highlighted and resilience was seen not only at an individual level, but was also attributed to effective team working.
Response letter to “Acute cholangitis: Does malignant biliary obstruction vs choledocholithiasis etiology change the outcomes?” with imaging aspects
Authors: Aydin Sonay , Irgul Baris
Published: January 2024

Radiological imaging findings may contribute to the differentiation of malignant biliary obstruction from choledocholithiasis in the etiology of acute cholangitis.
Effect of nursing on postoperative respiratory function and mental health of lung cancer patients
Authors: Yang Xiang , Yin Dan , Chen Shi-Qing
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND

Both pulmonary rehabilitation training and psychological care have been shown to have a positive effect on the postoperative recovery of patients with lung cancer. However, few studies have combined the two to explore their combined effect. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effects of pulmonary rehabilitation training combined with psychological care on postoperative respiratory function and mental health in lung cancer patients.

AIM

To investigate effect of nursing on postoperative respiratory function and mental health of lung cancer patients.

METHODS

122 cases of lung cancer patients who underwent surgical treatment in our hospital and were treated in our department from January 2022 to April 2023 were selected and randomly divided into the control group and observation group. The control group performed the routine care intervention. The observation group was given pulmonary rehabilitation training and psychological care based on conventional nursing interventions. Forced expiratory volume, forced vital capacity. Maximum ventilatory volume (MVV) in one second was measured, and the patient's 6-min walking distance and dyspnoea index scale were used to assess the patient's respiratory condition. The Connor-Davidson resilience scale (CD-RISC), self-rating anxiety scale (SAS), and self-rating depression scale (SDS) were used to evaluate the mental health of the patients.

RESULTS

There was no difference between the two groups regarding age, gender, education level, surgical procedure, type of pathology, and treatment (P > 0.05). After treatment, MVV, 6-min walking distance, toughness, strength, optimism, and total CD-RISC scores were significantly higher in the observation group (P < 0.05), dyspnoea scores, SAS, and SDS scores were substantially lower in the control group compared to the observation group (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Pulmonary rehabilitation training combined with psychological care for patients after lung cancer resection could improve lung function, enhance daily activities, effectively relieve negative emotions such as anxiety and depression, and reduce complications.
Omental fibroma combined with right indirect inguinal hernia masquerades as a scrotal tumor: A case report
Authors: Zhou Ping , Jin Chan-Hui , Shi Ying , Ma Guo-Qing , Wu Wen-Hao , Wang Yu , Cai Kun , Fan Wu-Feng , Wang Tian-Bao
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND

The most common causes of scrotal enlargement in patients include primary tumor of the scrotum, inflammation, hydrocele of the tunica vaginalis, and indirect inguinal hernia; scrotal enlargement caused by external tumors of the scrotum is rare. The patient had both a greater omentum tumor and an inguinal hernia, and the tumor protruded into the scrotum through the hernia sac, which is even rarer. Moreover, omental tumors are mostly metastatic, and primary omental fibroma is rare.

CASE SUMMARY

Here, we report a rare case of a 25-year-old young man with scrotal enlargement and pain for 3 months. Preoperative examination and multidisciplinary discussions considered intra-abdominal tumor displacement and inguinal hernia, and intraoperative exploration confirmed that the greater omentum tumor protruded into the scrotum. Therefore, tumor resection and tension-free inguinal hernia repair were performed. The final diagnosis was benign fibroma of the greater omentum accompanied by an indirect inguinal hernia.

CONCLUSION

This unusual presentation of a common inguinal hernia disease illustrates the necessity of performing detailed history taking, physical examination, and imaging before surgery.
Lumber Supply-Chain Practice in Cross-Laminated Timber Industries in the United States: A Comparison with Austrian Producers
Authors: Adhikari Sailesh , Bond Brian , Quesada Henry , Smith Robert
Published: January 2024

Lumber is the main raw material for cross-laminated timber (CLT) production, accounting for up to 80 percent of the cost. The availability, quality, and price of lumber are critical factors that influence the completion of CLT projects in the United States. Although structural-rated CLTs are made from structural-grade lumber available in the commodities market, CLT mills have additional requirements to process the lumber more efficiently. These requirements increase production costs, affecting the supply chain, delaying production schedules, and increasing project completion times. This study aims to identify the differences in the lumber supply-chain practices for CLT manufacturing in the United States and Austria. The authors used the case-study survey with convenience sampling method to describe how CLT mills work with suppliers, their delivery preferences, quality-control practices, and current critical issues in each country. The study shows significant differences in lumber procurement and quality monitoring between CLT mills in the United States and Austria. Although the quality of lumber supplied to Austrian CLT mills does not require additional preparation, the quality of lumber in the United States significantly affects production efficiency and cost. To address the lumber supply-chain problems in the United States for CLT production, the authors recommend sorting lumber from the current market to meet minimum requirements and introducing a new lumber grade specifically for CLT mills. Furthermore, adopting the Austrian practice of mass-producing blank CLTs can provide a continuous supply of lumber from sawmills or distributors and increase collaboration opportunities with suppliers and producers.
First inventory of Ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) with detection of potential invasive species in National Park of Ehotilés islands, Côte d’Ivoire
Authors: Kouakou Lombart M. M. , Yode Dakélé C-V. , Koneman N’Guessan F. , Ouattara Djeneba , Etimandjore Franck-Ursul , Malan Djah F. , Yeo Kolo , Dekoninck Wouter
Published: January 2024

Estuarine and wetland ecosystems are becoming increasingly altered by the concentration of human population near the coastline. A major threat to biodiversity related to this human footprint is the introduction of invasive alien species, particularly in isolated ecosystems like islands where biological invasion is often harmful. The National Park of Ehotilés Islands is an archipelago of 6 islands and a RAMSAR site subjected to disturbances activities like agriculture, illegal fisheries, and tourism. These factors often act as an accelerator for the introduction of invasive species. However, there is a lack of research conducted on insects, specifically ants on these islands. This study aimed to inventory the present ant fauna and estimate the vulnerability to tramp and potential invasive ant species. Ants were collected using Winkler, pitfall, and funnel traps on five islands. In total, 76 ant species were recorded. These species are distributed into 20 genera and five subfamilies: Dolichoderinae (5 species), Formicinae (11 species), Myrmicinae (49 species), Ponerinae (11 species) and Proceratiinae (1 species). We also detected two tramp and potentially invasive species: the ghost ant Tapinoma melanocephalum and the big-headed ant Pheidole megacephala. Ant communities are dominated by six species, namely Odontomachus troglodytes, Oecophylla longinoda, Nylanderia lepida, Pheidole sp.2, Monomorium invidium, and the invasive ghost ant Tapinoma melanocephalum. This work is the first to inventory ants on the Islands of Ehotilés National Park and may serve as a basis for conservation decisions as it demonstrates that this park is not spared from the introduction of invasive ant species.
Thermal Tolerance of Honeybees (Apis mellifera L.) Changes Across an Elevation Gradient in the Mexican Transition Zone
Authors: Barreiro José Benito , Ratoni Brenda , Baena-Díaz Fernanda , González-Tokman Daniel , Dáttilo Wesley
Published: January 2024

The objective of this study was to determine the critical thermal minimum [CTmin], critical thermal maximum [CTmax], and thermal tolerance range of A. mellifera at three different elevations located in the Mexican Transition Zone: 11; 1,324, and 3,304 m.a.s.l. In general, we found that the CTmin of A. mellifera was lower at the site with the highest elevation (i.e., they tolerate colder temperatures). At the same time, the CTmax remained constant across the three studied elevations, revealing higher plasticity for cold tolerance rather than heat. Moreover, we did not find evidence that the body mass of the individuals was associated with their thermal tolerance at any of the three sampled elevations. Our findings suggest processes of local adaptation of A. mellifera populations in environmentally contrasting sites, allowing them to expand their range of distribution, which could be useful in predicting responses to future environmental change.
New Species of Grigiotermes (Apicotermitinae, Termitidae) from the Northern Atlantic Forest, Delimited by Morphological and Molecular Data
Authors: Carvalho Antonio , Rocha Mauricio M. , Koroiva Ricardo , Monteiro Sara R. P. , Vasconcellos Alexandre
Published: January 2024

In this paper, we described a new species of Grigiotermes, G. piassava sp. n., from the Brazilian Atlantic Forest. The imago and worker caste are described, including the gut morphology. The inclusion of the new species in Grigiotermes was based on morphological and DNA data. Apparently, the distribution of the species is limited to the northern region of the Atlantic Forest, located above the São Francisco River, which is considered one of the most threatened sectors of the biome.
Comb spectroscopy of CO2 produced from microbial metabolism
Authors: Whitaker-Lockwood Joshua A. , Scholten Sarah K. , Karim Faisal , Luiten André N. , Perrella Christopher
Published: January 2024

We have developed a direct frequency comb spectroscopy instrument, which we have tested on Saccharomyces cerevisiae (baker’s yeast) by measuring its CO2 output and production rate as we varied the environmental conditions, including the amount and type of feed sugar, the temperature, and the amount of yeast. By feeding isotopically-enhanced sugar to the yeast, we demonstrate the capability of our device to differentiate between two isotopologues of CO2, with a concentration measurement precision of 260 ppm for 12C16O2 and 175 ppm for 13C16O2. We also demonstrate the ability of our spectrometer to measure the proportion of carbon in the feed sugar converted to CO2, and estimate the amount incorporated into the yeast biomass.
Photon counting fibre optic distributed temperature sensing with a CMOS SPAD array
Authors: Tye Caitlin S. , Ehrlich Katjana , Green Andrew D. M. , Henderson R. K. , Tanner Michael G.
Published: January 2024

Time-resolved fibre optic Raman distributed temperature sensing (DTS) measurements experience long measurement times due to a weak backscattered Raman signal inside optical fibres or limited detector count rates. Here, improvements to previous work based on individual detectors are demonstrated using a 512 pixel complementary-metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) single-photon avalanche diode (SPAD) line sensor array with integrated (on-chip) timing electronics. Multiplexed single photon counting increases count rate and decreases measurement time for practical applications. This allows temperature to be measured every 0.5 m with 0.7 °C accuracy and a 10 s measurement time using a 13.0 m optical fibre, performance over longer distance is also investigated.
Theoretical study of filtered and amplified PRBS phase modulation for SBS suppression in a 2.5 kW, 10 GHz monolithic fiber amplifier
Authors: Wang He , Yang Yifeng , Ren Yike , Xie Wei , Chen Xiaolong , Liu Kai , Xiong Xiaoqiang , Meng Junqing , He Bing
Published: January 2024

We report a theoretical and experimental study on stimulated Brillouin scattering (SBS) suppression in a monolithic fiber amplifier with filtered and amplified pseudo-random binary sequence (PRBS) phase modulation. Theoretically, we use a time-dependent three-wave coupled nonlinear system considering both active fiber and passive fiber to describe the acoustic phonon, laser, and Stokes characteristics in a fiber amplifier. The SBS threshold power after filtered PRBS phase modulation is numerically evaluated to obtain the optimal parameters, and the time-averaged distributions of the counter-pump power, laser power, and Stokes power at different positions along the fiber length of the fiber system are simulated. Also, we established a four-stage fiber amplifier system to verify our theory. The configuration of the fiber amplifier system includes a filtered and amplified PRBS phase-modulated single-frequency fiber laser, a three-stage pre-amplifier, and a counter-pumping main stage, subsequently. 2.5 kW output power with an FWHM linewidth of 9.63 GHz is accomplished by a domestic ytterbium-doped double-clad fiber with core/cladding diameters of 20.2/400  µm. The reflectivity of the main stage is 0.049‰ at the maximum output power, which indicates the proposed architecture is under the SBS threshold. The experiments verify the accuracy of the theoretical model, which provides a reliable reference for evaluating the SBS suppression capability of the high-power narrow-linewidth fiber amplifier phase modulated by the filtered and amplified PRBS signal.
High-performance laser power converters with resistance to thermal annealing
Authors: Gou Yudan , Mou Zhiqiang , Wang Hao , Chen Yongji , Wang Jun , Yang Huomu , Deng Guoliang
Published: January 2024

High-performance laser power converters are crucial for laser wireless power transmission systems. Through the optimization of the resistive thermal annealing temperature applied to the laser power converter, the conversion efficiency reaches 55.0%. For 830 nm laser irradiation, the conversion efficiency further elevates to 59.3%. The potential for improvement remains substantial, with an anticipated increase to 63.8% achievable through the optimization of current matching at this specific wavelength. Moreover, the reliability of the laser power converter is demonstrated by its ability to 1,000 hours of operation at an elevated temperature of 180°C.
High-resolution self-corrected single-pixel imaging through dynamic and complex scattering media: erratum
Authors: Zhou Lina , Xiao Yin , Chen Wen
Published: January 2024

We correct typographical errors in our paper [Opt. Express 31, 23027 (2023)10.1364/OE.489808]. The corrections have no influence on the results and conclusions of the original paper.
Off-plane quartz-enhanced photoacoustic spectroscopy
Authors: Luo Huijian , Li Junming , Lv Haohua , Xie Jiabao , Wang Chenglong , Lin Haoyang , Zhuang Ruobin , Zhu Wenguo , Zhong Yongchun , Kan Ruifeng , Yu Jianhui , Zheng Huadan
Published: January 2024

In this work, we developed off-plane quartz-enhanced photoacoustic spectroscopy (OP-QEPAS). In the OP-QEPAS the light beam went neither through the prong spacing of the quartz tuning fork (QTF) nor in the QTF plane. The light beam is in parallel with the QTF with an optimal distance, resulting in low background noise. A radial-cavity (RC) resonator was coupled with the QTF to enhance the photoacoustic signal by the radial resonance mode. By offsetting both the QTF and the laser position from the central axis, we enhance the effect of the acoustic radial resonance and prevent the noise generated by direct laser irradiation of the QTF. Compared to IP-QEPAS based on a bare QTF, the developed OP-QEPAS with a RC resonator showed a >10× signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) enhancement. The OP-QEPAS system has great advantages in the use of light emitting devices (LEDs), long-wavelength laser sources such as mid-infrared quantum cascade lasers, and terahertz sources. When employing a LED as the excitation source, the noise level was suppressed by ∼2 orders of magnitude. Furthermore, the radial and longitudinal resonance modes can be combined to further improve the sensor performance.
Realizing high-efficiency third harmonic generation via accidental bound states in the continuum
Authors: Tang Wenjie , Zhao Qiming , Wang Ziyu , Gao Yajun , He Jie , Zhu Yi , Wang Shuxian , Yu Haohai , Peng Ruwen , Wang Mu
Published: January 2024

The bound states in the continuum (BICs) have attracted much attention in designing metasurface due to their high Q-factor and effectiveness in suppressing radiational loss. Here we report on the realization of the third harmonic generation (THG) at a near-ultraviolet wavelength (343 nm) via accidental BICs in a metasurface. The absolute conversion efficiency of the THG reaches 1.13 × 10−5 at a lower peak pump intensity of 0.7 GW/cm2. This approach allows the generation of an unprecedentedly high nonlinear conversion efficiency with simple structures.
Origination of the chiroptical effect in plasmonic nano-structures in the view of quasi-normal mode theory
Authors: Zhou Jie , Huang Shanshan , Peng Jialong , Hou Yidong
Published: January 2024

General chiroptical effects describe all of the interaction differences between light carrying opposite spins and chiral matters, such as circular dichroism, optical activity, and chiral Raman optical activity, and have been proven to hold great promise for extensive applications in physics, chemistry, and biology. However, the underlying physical mechanism is usually explained intangibly by the twisted currents in chiral geometry, where the cross coupling between the electric and magnetic dipoles breaks the degeneracy of the helicity eigenmodes. In this Letter, we construct a clear sight on the origination of the chiroptical effect in the view of the eigenstates of a non-Hermitian system, i.e., quasi-normal modes (QNMs). The intrinsic chiroptical effect comes from the chiral QNMs, which have distinct excitation and emission differences in both phase and intensity for lights carrying opposite spins, while the extrinsic chiroptical effect coming from the achiral QNMs requires specific illumination and observation conditions, where the low symmetrical QNM can generate chiroptical effects in both absorption and scattering, but the highly symmetrical QNMs can only generate chiroptical effects in scattering through the coherent superposition of several QNMs. Our findings offer an in-depth understanding of the chiroptical effect and have the potential to bring broad inspiration to the design and applications of chiroptical effects.
Estimating person-specific neural correlates of mental rotation: A machine learning approach
Authors: Uslu Sinan , Tangermann Michael , Vögele Claus
Published: January 2024

Using neurophysiological measures to model how the brain performs complex cognitive tasks such as mental rotation is a promising way towards precise predictions of behavioural responses. The mental rotation task requires objects to be mentally rotated in space. It has been used to monitor progressive neurological disorders. Up until now, research on neural correlates of mental rotation have largely focused on group analyses yielding models with features common across individuals. Here, we propose an individually tailored machine learning approach to identify person-specific patterns of neural activity during mental rotation. We trained ridge regressions to predict the reaction time of correct responses in a mental rotation task using task-related, electroencephalographic (EEG) activity of the same person. When tested on independent data of the same person, the regression model predicted the reaction times significantly more accurately than when only the average reaction time was used for prediction (bootstrap mean difference of 0.02, 95% CI: 0.01–0.03, p < .001). When tested on another person’s data, the predictions were significantly less accurate compared to within-person predictions. Further analyses revealed that considering person-specific reaction times and topographical activity patterns substantially improved a model’s generalizability. Our results indicate that a more individualized approach towards neural correlates can improve their predictive performance of behavioural responses, particularly when combined with machine learning.
Vitamin D status in post-medieval Northern England: Insights from dental histology and enamel peptide analysis at Coach Lane, North Shields (AD 1711–1857)
Authors: Snoddy Anne Marie E. , Shaw Heidi , Newman Sophie , Miszkiewicz Justyna J. , Stewart Nicolas A. , Jakob Tina , Buckley Hallie , Caffell Anwen , Gowland Rebecca
Published: January 2024

Objectives

The post-medieval period in Europe saw a dramatic increase in metabolic bone disease related to vitamin D deficiency (VDD). Recent paleopathological work has utilized interglobular dentin (IGD) as a proxy for poor vitamin D status during development, while enamel peptide analysis allows the identification of chromosomal sex in non-adult remains. Here we explore the relationship between sex, the presence of IGD, and macroscopic markers of VDD in an industrial era assemblage from Northeast England.

Materials and methods

25 individuals (9 females, 9 males, 9 unknown sex) from the cemetery site at Coach Lane, North Shields (1711–1857) were selected for paleopathological analysis, histological assessment of IGD, and enamel peptide determination of chromosomal sex.

Results

Ground tooth sections from 21 individuals were of suitable quality for detection of IGD, and enamel peptide analysis confirmed the chromosomal sex of ten individuals. Sixteen individuals (76.1%) exhibited ≥1 episode of IGD. Nine of these (42.8%) exhibited >1 episode and four (19%) exhibited ≥4 episodes in regular intervals. Male sex was significantly associated with the presence of IGD (p= 0.0351; 100% males vs. 54.5% females). Females were more likely to exhibit macroscopic evidence of VDD (45.5% females vs 30% males) but this was not statistically significant.

Discussion and conclusions

Periods of poor mineral metabolism during childhood appear much more prevalent at Coach Lane than macroscopic evidence suggests. Evidence of seasonal IGD episodes indicates that northern latitude played a major role in poor VD status in the Northeast of England. The significant association of IGD with male sex may be due to sex-related differences in dentinal mineralization or a higher risk of poor VD status in males aged <5 years. More work is needed to establish an evidence-based threshold for pathological levels of IGD before the presence of this feature can confidently be used as a biomarker for poor VD status.
Numerical simulation and investigation of soliton solutions and chaotic behavior to a stochastic nonlinear Schrödinger model with a random potential
Authors: Ali Asghar , Ahmad Jamshad , Javed Sara , Hussain Rashida , Alaoui Mohammed Kbiri
Published: January 2024

The stochastic nonlinear Schrödinger model (SNLSM) in (1+1)-dimension with random potential is examined in this paper. The analysis of the evolution of nonlinear dispersive waves in a totally disordered medium depends heavily on the model under investigation. This study has three main objectives. Firstly, for the SNLSM, derive stochastic precise solutions by using the modified Sardar sub-equation technique. This technique is efficient and intuitive for solving such models, as shown by the generated solutions, which can be described as trigonometric, hyperbolic, bright, single and dark. Secondly, for obtaining numerical solutions to the SNLSM, the algorithms described here offer an accurate and efficient technique. Lastly, investigate the phase plane analysis of the perturbed and unperturbed dynamical system and the time series analysis of the governing model. The results show that the numerical and analytical techniques can be extended to solve other nonlinear partial differential equations in physics and engineering. The results of this study have a significant impact on how well we comprehend how solitons behave in physical systems. Additionally, they may serve as a foundation for the development of improved numerical techniques for handling challenging nonlinear partial differential equations.
Land reclamation and its consequences: A 40-year analysis of water residence time in Doha Bay, Qatar
Authors: Lecart Mathieu , Dobbelaere Thomas , Alaerts Lauranne , Randresihaja Ny Riana , Mohammed Aboobacker Valliyil , Vethamony Ponnumony , Hanert Emmanuel
Published: January 2024

Qatar’s rapid industrialization, notably in its capital city Doha, has spurred a surge in land reclamation projects, leading to a constriction of the entrance to Doha Bay. By reducing and deflecting the ocean circulation, land reclamation projects have reduced the effective dispersion of wastewater introduced into the bay and hence degraded the water quality. Here, we assess fluctuations in water residence time across three distinct eras (1980, 2000, and 2020) to gauge the impact of successive land reclamation developments. To do this, we couple the multi-scale ocean model SLIM with a Lagrangian model for water residence time within Doha’s coastal area. We consider three different topographies of Doha’s shoreline to identify which artificial structures contributed the most to increase water residence time. Our findings reveal that the residual ocean circulation in Doha Bay was predominantly impacted by northern developments post-2000. Between 1980 and 2000, the bay’s residence time saw a modest rise, of about one day on average. However, this was followed by a substantial surge, of three to six days on average, between 2000 and 2020, which is mostly attributable to The Pearl mega artificial island development. Certain regions of the bay witnessed a tripling of water residence time. Given the ongoing population expansion along the coast, it is anticipated that the growth of artificial structures and coastal reclamation will persist, thereby exacerbating the accumulation of pollutants in the bay. Our findings suggest that artificial offshore structures can exert far-reaching, non-local impacts on water quality, which need to be properly assessed during the planning stages of such developments.
Transcriptome and machine learning analysis of the impact of COVID-19 on mitochondria and multiorgan damage
Authors: Chang Yu-Yu , Wei An-Chi
Published: January 2024

The effects of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) primarily concern the respiratory tract and lungs; however, studies have shown that all organs are susceptible to infection by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). COVID-19 may involve multiorgan damage from direct viral invasion through angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), through inflammatory cytokine storms, or through other secondary pathways. This study involved the analysis of publicly accessible transcriptome data from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database for identifying significant differentially expressed genes related to COVID-19 and an investigation relating to the pathways associated with mitochondrial, cardiac, hepatic, and renal toxicity in COVID-19. Significant differentially expressed genes were identified and ranked by statistical approaches, and the genes derived by biological meaning were ranked by feature importance; both were utilized as machine learning features for verification. Sample set selection for machine learning was based on the performance, sample size, imbalanced data state, and overfitting assessment. Machine learning served as a verification tool by facilitating the testing of biological hypotheses by incorporating gene list adjustment. A subsequent in-depth study for gene and pathway network analysis was conducted to explore whether COVID-19 is associated with cardiac, hepatic, and renal impairments via mitochondrial infection. The analysis showed that potential cardiac, hepatic, and renal impairments in COVID-19 are associated with ACE2, inflammatory cytokine storms, and mitochondrial pathways, suggesting potential medical interventions for COVID-19-induced multiorgan damage.
Characterization and comparison of human and mouse milk cells
Authors: Doerfler Rose , Yerneni Saigopalakrishna , Newby Alexandra , Chaudhary Namit , Shu Ashley , Fein Katherine , Hofstatter Azambuja Juliana , Whitehead Kathryn A.
Published: January 2024

Recent data has characterized human milk cells with unprecedented detail and provided insight into cell populations. While such analysis of freshly expressed human milk has been possible, studies of cell functionality within the infant have been limited to animal models. One commonly used animal model for milk research is the mouse; however, limited data are available describing the composition of mouse milk. In particular, the maternal cells of mouse milk have not been previously characterized in detail, in part due to the difficulty in collecting sufficient volumes of mouse milk. In this study, we have established a method to collect high volumes of mouse milk, isolate cells, and compare the cell counts and types to human milk. Surprisingly, we found that mouse milk cell density is three orders of magnitude higher than human milk. The cell types present in the milk of mice and humans are similar, broadly consisting of mammary epithelial cells and immune cells. These results provide a basis of comparison for mouse and human milk cells and will inform the most appropriate uses of mouse models for the study of human phenomena.
Impact of climate and demographic changes on the vegetation of the M’goun Geopark UNESCO of Morocco (1984-2021)
Authors: Youssef Gharnit , Abdelaziz Moujane , Aboubakre Outourakht , Hasib Aziz , Boulli Abdelali
Published: January 2024

The primary goal of this study is to identify changes in the vegetation cover of the geopark M’goun region of Morocco, as a sample area to track the Moroccan vegetation status, and the crucial factors that influenced its evolution between 1984 and 2021. The NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index) method has been used, combined with supervised classification manipulated with the Google Earth Engine and through statistical analysis using R, together with field trips and Google Earth records for supervised classification. The percentage of vegetation density, made up of oak groves, Matorrals, red juniper, and thuja, in addition to a highly biodiverse cover, displays a declining trend. Medium-cover vegetation decreased by 29.5%, dense vegetation decreased considerably by 70.9%, and low-cover vegetation saw a minimal decline of 0.02%. As a result, dense and medium vegetation are being replaced by bare lands or poor-quality cover formed by sparse plants and solitary trees. In addition, precipitation increased slightly, showing an irregular trend, with average minimum and maximum temperatures rising by +1.7°C and +1.4°C, respectively. Furthermore, the population increased by 84.47%. Statistical analysis showed that the most important parameters affecting medium and dense vegetation cover are temperatures (Tmin and Tmax) and population density, as evidenced by the strong correlation between them. In contrast, sparse vegetation cover showed less correlation due to its heterogeneity. However, precipitation played a minimal role in vegetation evolution. Change detection maps revealed a significant negative impact on vegetation cover. This degradation was localized in the southern part of the area of study, where, according to the demographic density map, the majority of the population resides. Deforestation continues due to the lifestyle and economic activities of the local population. These factors, combined with climate change, are exerting large-scale pressure on the forest throughout the geopark.
3D Flower-like Composites in Energy Storage and Photocatalytic Applications: A Review
Authors: Suresh Selvaraj , Kumar Astakala Anil , Deshmukh Shubham Avinash , Ravichandran S. , Rafi Shaik , Prasad P. Hanuman
Published: January 2024

This extant review looks at the energy storage and photocatalytic degradation efficiency of various three-dimensional flower-like composites. Cobalt/nickel composites with porous structure and high surface area were efficient in energy storage applications. Graphene in 3D flower-like  compounds with cobalt/nickel compounds improves the electrochemical performance. Photocatalytic degradation of bismuth compounds/silver  compounds containing 3D flower-like composites was effective. 3D Flower-like graphene composites have excellent energy storage and photocatalytic  properties. This review will generate interest among researchers to develop new 3D flower-like composites with unique properties in energy storage and photocatalysis. This study could lead to more innovative methods of creating novel 3D flower-like composites with high potential for future applications.
Mechanical Properties, Morphological Characterization and Melt Dripping Studies of Polypropylene (PP) + High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) + Polystyrene (PS) Ternary Polymer Blends: Non-Isothermal Degradation Kinetics of Compatibilized and Uncompatibilized Blends
Authors: Rajan C. Surej , Varghese Lity Alen , Joseph Shiny , George Soney C.
Published: January 2024

Polymer composites have been widely used due to its light weight, performance with good mechanical properties, corrosion resistant, solvent resistance and it becomes an important part of the industries. Polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS) and high-density  polyethylene (HDPE) are applied to various commercial as well as automobile spare parts. In this study PP, PS and HDPE were melt  mixed together to form a ternary polymer blend and mechanical, morphological, thermogravimetric analysis were conducted to  determine its potential applications. The compatibilization of the blend was achieved by the combination of ethylene-propylenediene- monomer (EPDM) and styrene-ethylene-butylene-styrene (SEBS). Model free methods like Flynn Wall Ozawa (FWO), Kissinger-Akahira- Sunose equation (KAS) and Friedman methods were applied to estimate the activation energy values at different heating rates of 5, 10  and 15 ºC/min. The compatibilized blend of 80PP/5PS/15HDPE with 5% SEBS/EPDM showed better tensile strength compared to  uncompatibilized. Freidman method produced a higher value of average activation energy as 203.4 kJ/mol. The melt dripping  characteristics was also analyzed were the time to ignition and time for first drip was found to be in the range of 6 to 9 s and 14-16 s.  Pure and compatibilized blends showed a very low limiting oxygen index (LOI) values as in the range of 18.7 to 18.9.  Elastomeric/rubber blend compatibilization was achieved and the material can be applied to light weight automobile applications.  From morphological characterization, it was understood that compatibilized blends are more durable and easily transfer the stress  uniformly through the interface. This compatibilized blend can also be used in low temperature regions.
A Green Method of Reducing Graphene Oxide by Tangerine Peel Extract
Authors: Hamid Raghad Ali , Zawawi Ruzniza Mohd
Published: January 2024

This work introduces a simple and environmental friendly approach for synthesizing reduced graphene oxide using tangerine peel extract as a non-toxic alternative to toxic compounds. Various microscopic and spectroscopic techniques were used to characterize the synthesized reduced graphene oxide. The UV-visible spectra of reduced graphene oxide (287 nm) at specific wavelengths and the FTIR analysis showed that the oxygen groups in reduced graphene oxide were reduced. Raman analysis confirmed a small increase in the intensity ratio of the D-band to the G-band. The X-ray diffraction spectra showed the presence of reduced graphene oxide in the 2θ angle, at 28.36º peak with a d-spacing value of 2.12 nm. The wettability and morphology of reduced graphene oxide were also investigated. The carbon-to-oxygen ratio of reduced graphene oxide was increased compared to graphene oxide in addition, the cyclic voltammetry was used to evaluate the electrochemical behaviour of the reduced graphene oxide.
A Study of Serial Shearwave Sonoelastography (SWE) Using Supersonic Imaging in Early Renal Post - Transplant Period
Authors: Ashbina K.  , K. G. Ramakrishnan  , Sujith Janardhanan  , Sajith Narayanan  , Feroz Aziz
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND

Ultrasound elastography is a novel technique in ultrasound that quantifies the tissue stiffness in organs and recently has emerged as a tool in complementing the evaluation of renal allograft function. The pathological processes underlying the graft dysfunction cause the changes in elasticity of the graft tissue. This change in elasticity is detected and imaged using elastography. US-based elastography is now a noninvasive complementary tool in addition to the existing laboratory and Doppler-based parameters in the evaluation of renal allograft dysfunction.

METHODS

The present prospective cohort study was conducted in the Department of Radiology, Malabar Institute of Medical sciences, Kerala, India from January 2019 to June 2020.

RESULTS

Renal allograft parenchymal stiffness by shearwave sonoelastography correlated positively with S. creatinine (p <0.001) and RI (p <0.001) and inversely correlated with eGFR (p<0.001). There was no correlation between the SWE values and BMI of the recipient. There was no correlation between the SWE values and age of the donor and between the SWE values and age of the patient.

CONCLUSIONS

The renal parenchymal stiffness by shearwave elastography showed positive correlation with serum creatinine and RI values and inverse correlation with eGFR which reflected the functional status of the renal allograft. The renal allografts with graft dysfunction were found to have higher SWE values than the stable renal allografts. The renal parenchymal stiffness can help to differentiate stable allografts and graft with allograft dysfunction, hence may be used as a reliable tool in addition to the existing laboratorical and Doppler based parameters in predicting allograft dysfunction. The cut-off value for differentiating stable renal allografts and renal allografts with dysfunction was found to be 14.32 kpa. There was no correlation between shear wave elastography values with the BMI of the recipient and age of the donor.
Rubber Band Syndrome - An Invisible Syndrome
Authors: Pavan Banavathi Sanjeevappa  , Anugrah Suresh
Published: January 2024

Rubber band Syndrome or Dhaga syndrome is a clinical entity still prevalent in developing countries with strong religious practices which involves the use of elastic bands or threads tied commonly around the arms or legs especially in children as part of religious previews. Here we wanted to diagnose and describe the imaging findings in a case of Rubber Band Syndrome. A three-year-old female patient presented to the surgical out-patient department with complaints of pain, swelling and discoloration of the left wrist. Her mother gave a history of religious thread being tied to the left wrist of the patient two years back. The patient was referred to the Department of Radio-diagnosis for Imaging. Plain radiograph of the left wrist with forearm (AP and Lateral views) revealed a smooth bony defect over the outer aspect of the distal radius and ulna. This syndrome is an invisible syndrome as the patients themselves would not remember tying a religious thread or rubber band over the arm or leg as it is worn for years together due to religious beliefs. Hence, it is important to have knowledge of the condition and the imaging features to make an accurate diagnosis.

Rubber Band Syndrome (A.K.A Dhaga Syndrome) is a rare disorder which is caused by elastic bracelets or rubber bands or ceremonial threads worn for decorative or religious reasons and constricting mainly the wrist. [1] All the cases were reported in children especially chubby children. [2]

The rubber band/ thread remains unnoticed on the child’s arm which slowly burrows through the skin progressing deeper and becomes invisible during physical examination. In severe cases, the constriction worsens and results in neurovascular deficits.

Timely diagnosis by imaging is required in such cases as the physical examination may not reveal any foreign body and prevent lifelong morbidity to the child.
Fracasso, malícia e de_colon_isation
Authors: Marques Duarte Sarah , De Souza Patrícia Teles Sobreira
Published: January 2024

O texto apresenta a transcrição da entrevista realizada com Pêdra Costa, em 2022, que atravessa temáticas relativas à sua trajetória de arte-vida, como: a relação com as instituições artísticas e universitárias; as experimentações corporais sexodissidentes; a exploração do “cu” como tática disruptiva desde a proposta da “Cuceta”; o fracasso como condição de possibilidade de existir e resistir; a malícia como estratégia de sobrevivência; a condição imigrante, entre outras. A artista reflete sobre a descolonização da universidade, sobre a prática de uma intelectualidade reversa, nascida do quadril, da bunda, do “cu”, o sul do corpo como lugar de potência para o desenvolvimento de uma intelectualidade outra, nascida da relação de corpo-a-corpo com o mundo.
Transformações culturais e arte no currículo escolar
Authors: Esmeris Sabrina
Published: January 2024

O presente artigo trata de um recorte de minha dissertação de mestrado que tem como objetivo principal reconsiderar a presença do conceito de belo na escola por meio de um olhar atualizado. Para este trabalho, faz-se uma seleção e rearticulação de dados oriundos do estudo anterior para dar uma atenção maior às transformações culturais que alteram conceitos, modos de fazer e pensar arte e, também, práticas de ensino. Para isso, faz-se necessário revisitar outros períodos históricos e informações atuais coletadas em escolas para compreender aspectos que circundam o conceito de arte e a arte como disciplina de currículo e, assim, refletir sobre seu atual papel na educação. A pesquisa conclui que a disciplina de arte tem autonomia para trabalhar com um conhecimento específico em sala de aula e tem o potencial de atuar na formação de sujeitos mais empáticos, criativos, críticos e conscientes do nosso tempo.
The Effect of Corporate Digitalization on the Value of Firm
Authors: Santosa Yolanda Elin , Salma Dini Kamilia
Published: January 2024

Information digitalization provides convenience for various parties. In the business world, companies provide digital information to investors for creating signals of development or growth in their business. In this study, the researchers seek to determine the effect of digitizing information on firm value. This quantitative research method uses a sample of all companies listed on the IDX in 2020. The results show that information digitalization does not affect the firm value. Based on this evidence, it implies that this research can provide provide insight for the company. This can be due to the consideration of the large number of internet users, in which the companies can provide company information such as company performance, and general notifications regarding the company through other media such as social media.