bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental and Numerical Investigation of Hydrogen Combustion in a Dual-Swirl Burner for Aero-Engine Applications
Authors: Gövert Simon , Berger Johannes , Lipkowicz Jonathan Timo , Soworka Thomas , Hassa Christoph , Behrendt Thomas , Janus Bertram
Published: July 2024

Green hydrogen produced by electrolysis offers a high potential for reducing CO2 emissions and thus represents a promising approach for the decarbonization of aviation. However, propulsion systems based on direct hydrogen combustion require modified fuel injectors and combustion chambers to account for the particular combustion characteristics of hydrogen. Engineering those modifications requires the acquisition of experimental and numerical tools especially suited for this task and in the end validating them in a suitable environment. In this context, hydrogen combustion and its numerical simulation are presented with a dual-swirl burner in an optically accessible atmospheric combustor as an intermediate step. To ensure safe operation and to reduce the risk of flashback, fuel and air are injected nonpremixed. Good flame stability and mixing, which leads to potentially low NOx values, is achieved by introducing a swirling motion into the flows. In this study, the combustor is operated under atmospheric pressure at a globally lean equivalence ratio. Measurements of OH* radical chemiluminescence as well as infrared (IR) radiation as marker of the hot water vapor distribution have been carried out to identify the flame location and shape. The configuration is further analyzed by means of reacting large-eddy-simulations (LES). The comparison of the simulation results with the experimental reference data shows that the flame lift of height and global flame spread are correctly predicted by the simulation for both operating conditions. However, the combustion model does not precisely capture the flame stabilization mechanism, leading to a radial offset of the flame front.
A Generative Approach to Testing the Performance of Physiological Control Algorithms
Authors: Tivay Ali , Bighamian Ramin , Hahn Jin-Oh , Scully Christopher G.
Published: July 2024

Physiological closed-loop control algorithms play an important role in the development of autonomous medical care systems, a promising area of research that has the potential to deliver healthcare therapies meeting each patient's specific needs. Computational approaches can support the evaluation of physiological closed-loop control algorithms considering various sources of patient variability that they may be presented with. In this article, we present a generative approach to testing the performance of physiological closed-loop control algorithms. This approach exploits a generative physiological model (which consists of stochastic and dynamic components that represent diverse physiological behaviors across a patient population) to generate a select group of virtual subjects. By testing a physiological closed-loop control algorithm against this select group, the approach estimates the distribution of relevant performance metrics in the represented population. We illustrate the promise of this approach by applying it to a practical case study on testing a closed-loop fluid resuscitation control algorithm designed for hemodynamic management. In this context, we show that the proposed approach can test the algorithm against virtual subjects equipped with a wide range of plausible physiological characteristics and behavior and that the test results can be used to estimate the distribution of relevant performance metrics in the represented population. In sum, the generative testing approach may offer a practical, efficient solution for conducting preclinical tests on physiological closed-loop control algorithms.
Vision-Inertial Fusion for Enhanced Relative Navigation: Application of MEKF and Refined Template Matching for Target Identification
Authors: Sung Kookjin , Peck Caleb , Majji Manoranjan
Published: July 2024

This paper presents a formulation and methodologies for a vision-aided inertial navigation system designed for autonomous landing or proximity operation. Measurements from a monocular camera are integrated with inertial measurements to enable sensor fusion, leveraging the strengths of both visual and inertial sensing modalities. A multiplicative extended Kalman filter (MEKF) is used to estimate the relative pose to a target space as well as bias variances. The estimator maintains a multiplicative approach to parameterizing the error quaternion and the attitude kinematics throughout filtering. We adapt the histogram-of-oriented gradients (HOGs) algorithm and apply a series of template images for feature extraction in our vision algorithm, thereby improving its rotation variance property. A measurement model is formulated through an auxiliary optimizing process of geometric data to estimate feature locations with uncertainty. The utility of the proposed navigation system and its framework is demonstrated by experimental analysis using the sensor module and the designated helipad target.
Roughness-generation mechanism of Ru etching using Cl2/O2-based plasma for advanced interconnect
Authors: Matsui Miyako , Ishii Yohei , Kovatch Lucas , Maier Kathryn , Imai Masaya , Miura Makoto , Kuwahara Kenichi
Published: July 2024

We investigated the Ru-etching mechanism using a Cl2/O2-based plasma generated by a microwave electron cyclotron resonance etching system. When 20% of Cl2 gas was added to an O2 plasma, the Ru etch rate was the highest and a smooth surface was obtained by forming volatile RuO4 and RuClxOy. However, when Ru was etched using an O2-rich plasma with less than 10% Cl2 gas added, nonvolatile RuO2 was also formed, which caused surface roughness. When using Cl2-rich plasma, the formation of nonvolatile RuClx caused surface roughness by forming micro masks. We also evaluated line-and-space Ru patterns with 32 nm pitch and 95 nm pitch using Cl2/O2-based plasma. Selectivity over the Si3N4 mask was the highest when 20% of Cl2 gas was added to an O2 plasma due to the high etch rate of Ru. The Ru-sidewall profile and roughness depended on the duty cycle of wafer-bias power. When wafer bias was applied continuously, the Ru sidewall was tapered because the Si3N4 mask widened due to the deposition of by-products. When the ion flux decreased by reducing the duty cycle of the wafer-bias power, the Ru pattern was vertically etched, but larger sidewall roughness was generated. The sidewall roughness was thought to be caused by nonvolatile RuOx and RuCly formed on the sidewalls. The sidewall Ru was etched by O and Cl radicals during the off period of the wafer-bias power. To reduce the sidewall roughness, we suggested a C-coating that uniformly protects the sidewall from being etched by adding passivation gas to the Cl2/O2 plasma.
Orally administrated liquid metal agents for inflammation-targeted alleviation of inflammatory bowel diseases
Authors: Liu Miaodeng , Zou Jinhui , Li Heli , Zhou Yunfan , Lv Qiying , Cheng Qian , Liu Jia , Wang Lin , Wang Zheng
Published: July 2024

Rapid drug clearance and off-target effects of therapeutic drugs can induce low bioavailability and systemic side effects and gravely restrict the therapeutic effects of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs). Here, we propose an amplifying targeting strategy based on orally administered gallium (Ga)-based liquid metal (LM) nano-agents to efficiently eliminate reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) and modulate the dysregulated microbiome for remission of IBDs. Taking advantage of the favorable adhesive activity and coordination ability of polyphenol structure, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) is applied to encapsulate LM to construct the formulations (LM-EGCG). After adhering to the inflamed tissue, EGCG not only eliminates RONS but also captures the dissociated Ga to form EGCG-Ga complexes for enhancive accumulation. The detained composites protect the intestinal barrier and modulate gut microbiota for restoring the disordered enteral microenvironment, thereby relieving IBDs. Unexpectedly, LM-EGCG markedly decreases the
Escherichia_Shigella
populations while augmenting the abundance of
Akkermansia
and
Bifidobacterium
, resulting in favorable therapeutic effects against the dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis.
DNA methylation enables recurrent endogenization of giant viruses in an animal relative
Authors: Sarre Luke A. , Kim Iana V. , Ovchinnikov Vladimir , Olivetta Marine , Suga Hiroshi , Dudin Omaya , Sebé-Pedrós Arnau , de Mendoza Alex
Published: July 2024

5-Methylcytosine (5mC) is a widespread silencing mechanism that controls genomic parasites. In eukaryotes, 5mC has gained complex roles in gene regulation beyond parasite control, yet 5mC has also been lost in many lineages. The causes for 5mC retention and its genomic consequences are still poorly understood. Here, we show that the protist closely related to animals
Amoebidium appalachense
features both transposon and gene body methylation, a pattern reminiscent of invertebrates and plants. Unexpectedly, hypermethylated genomic regions in
Amoebidium
derive from viral insertions, including hundreds of endogenized giant viruses, contributing 14% of the proteome. Using a combination of inhibitors and genomic assays, we demonstrate that 5mC silences these giant virus insertions. Moreover, alternative
Amoebidium
isolates show polymorphic giant virus insertions, highlighting a dynamic process of infection, endogenization, and purging. Our results indicate that 5mC is critical for the controlled coexistence of newly acquired viral DNA into eukaryotic genomes, making
Amoebidium
a unique model to understand the hybrid origins of eukaryotic DNA.
Hardware implementation of backpropagation using progressive gradient descent for in situ training of multilayer neural networks
Authors: van Doremaele Eveline R. W. , Stevens Tim , Ringeling Stijn , Spolaor Simone , Fattori Marco , van de Burgt Yoeri
Published: July 2024

Neural network training can be slow and energy-expensive due to the frequent transfer of weight data between digital memory and processing units. Neuromorphic systems can accelerate neural networks by performing multiply-accumulate operations in parallel using nonvolatile analog memory. However, executing the widely used backpropagation training algorithm in multilayer neural networks requires information—and therefore storage—of the partial derivatives of the weight values preventing suitable and scalable implementation in hardware. Here, we propose a hardware implementation of the backpropagation algorithm that progressively updates each layer using in situ stochastic gradient descent, avoiding this storage requirement. We experimentally demonstrate the in situ error calculation and the proposed progressive backpropagation method in a multilayer hardware-implemented neural network. We confirm identical learning characteristics and classification performance compared to conventional backpropagation in software. We show that our approach can be scaled to large and deep neural networks, enabling highly efficient training of advanced artificial intelligence computing systems.
Infection and chronic disease activate a systemic brain-muscle signaling axis
Authors: Yang Shuo , Tian Meijie , Dai Yulong , Wang Rong , Yamada Shigehiro , Feng Shengyong , Wang Yunyun , Chhangani Deepak , Ou Tiffany , Li Wenle , Guo Xuan , McAdow Jennifer , Rincon-Limas Diego E. , Yin Xin , Tai Wanbo , Cheng Gong , Johnson Aaron
Published: July 2024

Infections and neurodegenerative diseases induce neuroinflammation, but affected individuals often show nonneural symptoms including muscle pain and muscle fatigue. The molecular pathways by which neuroinflammation causes pathologies outside the central nervous system (CNS) are poorly understood. We developed multiple models to investigate the impact of CNS stressors on motor function and found that
Escherichia coli
infections and SARS-CoV-2 protein expression caused reactive oxygen species (ROS) to accumulate in the brain. ROS induced expression of the cytokine Unpaired 3 (Upd3) in
Drosophila
and its ortholog, IL-6, in mice. CNS-derived Upd3/IL-6 activated the JAK-STAT pathway in skeletal muscle, which caused muscle mitochondrial dysfunction and impaired motor function. We observed similar phenotypes after expressing toxic amyloid-β (Aβ42) in the CNS. Infection and chronic disease therefore activate a systemic brain-muscle signaling axis in which CNS-derived cytokines bypass the connectome and directly regulate muscle physiology, highlighting IL-6 as a therapeutic target to treat disease-associated muscle dysfunction.
MHC heterozygosity limits T cell receptor variability in CD4 T cells
Authors: Brown Alexander J. , White Janice , Shaw Laura , Gross Jimmy , Slabodkin Andrei , Kushner Ella , Greiff Victor , Matsuda Jennifer , Gapin Laurent , Scott-Browne James , Kappler John , Marrack Philippa
Published: July 2024

αβ T cell receptor (TCR) V(D)J genes code for billions of TCR combinations. However, only some appear on peripheral T cells in any individual because, to mature, thymocytes must react with low affinity but not high affinity with thymus expressed major histocompatibility (MHC)/peptides. MHC proteins are very polymorphic. Different alleles bind different peptides. Therefore, any individual might express many different MHC alleles to ensure that some peptides from an invader are bound to MHC and activate T cells. However, most individuals express limited numbers of MHC alleles. To explore this, we compared the TCR repertoires of naïve CD4 T cells in mice expressing one or two MHC alleles. Unexpectedly, the TCRs in heterozygotes were less diverse that those in the sum of their MHC homozygous relatives. Our results suggest that thymus negative selection cancels out the advantages of increased thymic positive selection in the MHC heterozygotes.
Safety of rezafungin as a long-term treatment option in two patients with complicated fungal infections: two cases from Lecco Hospital (Italy)
Authors: Ponta Giacomo , Morena Valentina , Strano Martina , Molteni Chiara , Pontiggia Silvia , Cavalli Erica Michela , Grancini Anna , Mauri Carola , Castagna Antonella , Galanti Andrea , Piconi Stefania
Published: July 2024

Rezafungin is an echinocandin characterized by a long elimination half-life which allows for weekly administration. It has been recently approved for the treatment of candidemia. Few data are available about the long-term use of rezafungin and its use for deep infections like endocarditis and osteomyelitis. We describe our experience with its prolonged use in two azole-resistant
Candida
infections: a case of sacral osteomyelitis and a prosthetic valve endocarditis also involving a thoracic endovascular aneurysm repair.
Seeing the unseen: illuminating
Toxoplasma gondii’s
metabolic manipulation
Authors: Huet Diego , Jeffers Victoria
Published: July 2024

Intracellular infection by a pathogen induces significant rewiring of host cell signaling and biological processes. Understanding how an intracellular pathogen such as
Toxoplasma gondii
modulates host cell metabolism with single-cell resolution has been challenged by the variability of infection within cultures and difficulties in separating host and parasite metabolic processes. A new study from Gallego-Lopez and colleagues (G. M. Gallego-López, E. C. Guzman, D. E. Desa, L. J. Knoll, M. C. Skala, mBio e00727-24, 2024,
https://doi.org/10.1128/mbio.00727-24
) applies a quantitative imaging approach to evaluate the host cell metabolism during intracellular infection with
Toxoplasma
. This study provides important insights into host metabolic responses to
Toxoplasma
infection and offers a valuable tool to dissect the mechanisms underlying parasite infection and pathophysiology.
Reconstructing paleoenvironments of the Late Cretaceous Western Interior Seaway, USA, using paired triple oxygen and carbonate clumped isotope measurements
Authors: Wostbrock Jordan A.G. , Witts James D. , Gao Yang , Peshek Catherine , Myers Corinne E. , Henkes Gregory , Sharp Zachary D.
Published: July 2024

Fossiliferous carbonate concretions are commonly found in sediments deposited in the Late Cretaceous Western Interior Seaway. Although concretions are diagenetic features, well-preserved fossils from within them have been instrumental in reconstructing the temperature and δ18O value of Western Interior Seaway seawater, which is essential for accurate reconstruction of Late Cretaceous climate. Here, we constrain formation conditions of Late Campanian and early Maastrichtian carbonate concretions by combining triple oxygen isotope measurements with carbonate clumped isotope paleothermometry on different carbonate phases within the concretions. We measured both fossil skeletal aragonite and sparry calcite infill from cracks and within macrofossil voids to evaluate differences between “primary” and “altered” geochemical signals. Based on the two temperature-sensitive isotope systems of the primary fossil shell aragonite, the temperature of the Western Interior Seaway was between 20 °C and 40 °C and was likely thermally stratified during the Campanian. The reconstructed δ18Oseawater values of ~−1‰ for Campanian Western Interior Seaway waters are similar to those expected for the open ocean during greenhouse climates, while the Maastrichtian Western Interior Seaway may have been more restricted, with a δ18Oseawater value of ~2‰, which reflects more evaporative conditions. We reconstructed the diagenetic history of the sparry infill and altered fossils using a fluid-rock mixing model. Alteration temperature, alteration fluid δ18O value, and the initial formation temperature were calculated by applying the fluid-rock mixing model to a particle swarm optimization algorithm. We found a different range of initial formation temperatures between the Campanian (25–38 °C) and Maastrichtian (9–28 °C). We also found that alteration in the presence of light meteoric fluids (δ18O ≈ −10‰) is required to explain both the sparry infill and the altered fossil isotopic values. Based on our results, both lithification and alteration of the carbonates occurred soon after burial, and light meteoric fluids support prior findings that high-topographic relief existed on the western margin of the Western Interior Seaway during the Late Cretaceous. As one of the first studies to apply these techniques in concert and across multiple mineralogical phases within samples, our results provide important constraints on paleoenvironmental conditions in an enigmatic ocean system and will improve interpretations of the overall health of ecosystems leading into the end-Cretaceous mass extinction.
Dynamic redox conditions in Mesoproterozoic shallow seawater: Constraints from carbonate fabrics and geochemistry
Authors: Sun Longfei , Shi Xiaoying , Zhou Xiqiang , Zhou Limin , Huang Kangjun , Xu Lei , Xie Baozeng , Wang Xinqiang , Tang Dongjie
Published: July 2024

The delayed eukaryote evolution during the mid-Proterozoic may have been linked to prolonged low oxygen levels during this period. Two short oxygenation events have recently been identified at ca. 1.57 Ga and ca. 1.4 Ga, but the redox conditions during the intervening interval remain poorly constrained. In this study, we conducted mineralogical and geochemical investigations on three sections of the Wumishan Formation (ca. 1.52–1.47 Ga) that were deposited between the two oxygenation events in the Yanliao basin. The results revealed two distinct changes in carbonate mineralogy and precipitation style associated with concurrent changes in carbonate I/(Ca + Mg): a transition from intervals with positive I/(Ca + Mg) anomalies and abundant water-column carbonate mud to intervals with no I/(Ca + Mg) anomalies and abundant seafloor precipitates, suggesting a shift from suboxic to anoxic conditions in shallow seawater. In both of the suboxic intervals, I/(Ca + Mg) values reached 0.5–2.6 μmol/mol, with negative Ce anomalies (Ce/Ce*(SN) = 0.69; data from literature) occurring in the later interval (ca. 1.48 Ga). The results suggest significant redox fluctuations in the shallow seawater during the Mesoproterozoic. However, these pulsed oxygenation episodes may not have been sufficient to sustain the continuous evolution of early eukaryotes.
Diagnostic accuracy of dipsticks for urinary tract infections in acutely hospitalised patients: a prospective population-based observational cohort study
Authors: Kristensen Laura Hauge , Winther Rannva , Colding-Jørgensen Josefine Tvede , Pottegård Anton , Nielsen Henrik , Bodilsen Jacob
Published: July 2024

Objective

To determine the added diagnostic value of dipsticks for urinary tract infections (UTI) in acutely hospitalised individuals.

Design

Prospective population-based cohort study.

Setting

North Denmark.

Participants

All adults (≥18 years) examined with dipsticks at emergency departments in North Denmark Region from September 20 through 23 October 2021.

Main outcome measures

UTI was defined as ≥1 symptom of new-onset frequency, dysuria or suprapubic tenderness combined with a positive urine culture. Positive dipsticks were defined as any reaction for leucocyte esterase and/or nitrite.

Results

Dipsticks were used in 1052/2495 (42%) of acutely hospitalised patients with a median age of 73 years (IQR 57–82) and 540 (51%) were female. Overall, 89/1052 (8%) fulfilled the UTI criteria and urine cultures were done in 607/1052 (58%) patients. Among patients examined with both dipstick and urine culture, sensitivity and specificity for UTI were 87% (95% CI 78% to 93%) and 45% (95% CI 41% to 50%). Positive and negative predictive values were 21% (95% CI 17% to 26%) and 95% (95% CI 92% to 98%), whereas positive and negative likelihood ratios were 1.58 (95% CI 1.41 to 1.77) and 0.30 (95% CI 0.18 to 0.51). Pretest probabilities of UTI ranged from 29% to 60% in participants with specific UTI symptoms with corresponding post-test probabilities of 35–69% if dipsticks were positive and 12–27% if dipsticks were negative. Results remained comparable if final clinical diagnosis was used as outcome among all patients examined with dipsticks. Modified Poisson regression yielded an adjusted relative risk of 4.41 (95% CI 2.40 to 8.11) for empirical antibiotics for UTI in participants without specific UTI symptoms and a positive dipstick.

Conclusions

Dipsticks yielded limited clinical decision support compared with a symptom-driven approach in this study and were independently associated with excess antibiotics for UTI.
Modulation of brain activity in brain-injured patients with a disorder of consciousness in intensive care with repeated 10-Hz transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS): a randomised controlled trial protocol
Authors: De Koninck Béatrice P , Brazeau Daphnee , Deshaies Amelie A , Briand Marie-Michele , Maschke Charlotte , Williams Virginie , Arbour Caroline , Williamson David , Duclos Catherine , Bernard Francis , Blain-Moraes Stefanie , De Beaumont Louis
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Therapeutic interventions for disorders of consciousness lack consistency; evidence supports non-invasive brain stimulation, but few studies assess neuromodulation in acute-to-subacute brain-injured patients. This study aims to validate the feasibility and assess the effect of a multi-session transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) intervention in subacute brain-injured patients on recovery of consciousness, related brain oscillations and brain network dynamics.

Methods and analyses

The study is comprised of two phases: a validation phase (n=12) and a randomised controlled trial (n=138). Both phases will be conducted in medically stable brain-injured adult patients (traumatic brain injury and hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy), with a Glasgow Coma Scale score ≤12 after continuous sedation withdrawal. Recruitment will occur at the intensive care unit of a Level 1 Trauma Centre in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. The intervention includes a 20 min 10 Hz tACS at 1 mA intensity or a sham session over parieto-occipital cortical sites, repeated over five consecutive days. The current’s frequency targets alpha brain oscillations (8–13 Hz), known to be associated with consciousness. Resting-state electroencephalogram (EEG) will be recorded four times daily for five consecutive days: pre and post-intervention, at 60 and 120 min post-tACS. Two additional recordings will be included: 24 hours and 1-week post-protocol. Multimodal measures (blood samples, pupillometry, behavioural consciousness assessments (Coma Recovery Scale-revised), actigraphy measures) will be acquired from baseline up to 1 week after the stimulation. EEG signal analysis will focus on the alpha bandwidth (8–13 Hz) using spectral and functional network analyses. Phone assessments at 3, 6 and 12 months post-tACS, will measure long-term functional recovery, quality of life and caregivers’ burden.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval for this study has been granted by the Research Ethics Board of the CIUSSS du Nord-de-l’Île-de-Montréal (Project ID 2021–2279). The findings of this two-phase study will be submitted for publication in a peer-reviewed academic journal and submitted for presentation at conferences. The trial’s results will be published on a public trial registry database (ClinicalTrials.gov).

Trial registration number

NCT05833568.
Protocol for a hybrid effectiveness-implementation clinical trial evaluating video-assisted electronic consent vs standard consent for patients initiating and continuing haemodialysis in Australia (eConsent HD)
Authors: Franca Gois Pedro Henrique , Saunderson Rebecca B , Wainstein Marina , Li Chenlei Kelly , Damasiewicz Matthew J , Miao Vera Y , Wolley Martin , Hepburn Kirsten , Mutatiri Clyson , Chacko Bobby , Bonner Ann , Healy Helen
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Communicating complex information about haemodialysis (HD) and ensuring it is well understood remains a challenge for clinicians. Informed consent is a high-impact checkpoint in augmenting patients’ decision awareness and engagement prior to HD. The aims of this study are to (1) develop a digital information interface to better equip patients in the decision-making process to undergo HD; (2) evaluate the effectiveness of the co-designed digital information interface to improve patient outcomes; and (3) evaluate an implementation strategy.

Methods and analysis

First, a co-design process involving consumers and clinicians to develop audio-visual content for an innovative digital platform. Next a two-armed, open-label, multicentre, randomised controlled trial will compare the digital interface to the current informed consent practice among adult HD patients (n=244). Participants will be randomly assigned to either the intervention or control group. Intervention group: Participants will be coached to an online platform that delivers a simple-to-understand animation and knowledge test questions prior to signing an electronic consent form. Control group: Participants will be consented conventionally by a clinician and sign a paper consent form. Primary outcome is decision regret, with secondary outcomes including patient-reported experience, comprehension, anxiety, satisfaction, adherence to renal care, dialysis withdrawal, consent time and qualitative feedback. Implementation of eConsent for HD will be evaluated concurrently using the Consolidation Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) methodology. Analysis: For the randomised controlled trial, data will be analysed using intention-to-treat statistical methods. Descriptive statistics and CFIR-based analyses will inform implementation evaluation.

Ethics and dissemination

Human Research Ethics approval has been secured (Metro North Health Human Research Ethics Committee B, HREC/2022/MNHB/86890), and Dissemination will occur through partnerships with stakeholder and consumer groups, scientific meetings, publications and social media releases.

Trial registration number

Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12622001354774).
Determinants of prenatal breastfeeding knowledge, attitudes and self-efficacy among Burmese migrant pregnant mothers in Samut Sakhon Province, Thailand: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Lynn Zayar , Chuemchit Montakarn
Published: July 2024

Objective

The study aimed to explore the determinants of prenatal breastfeeding knowledge, attitudes and self-efficacy among Burmese migrant pregnant mothers in Samut Sakhon Province, Thailand.

Design

The data were collected as part of a baseline survey of a randomised controlled trial.

Setting and participants

A total of 198 Burmese migrant mothers between 28th and 34th weeks of gestation were recruited from the antenatal care clinic of Samut Sakhon Hospital.

Primary outcome measures

Breastfeeding knowledge, attitudes and self-efficacy

Results

The prevalence of good breastfeeding knowledge was 65.7% (n=130), positive attitudes towards breast feeding were 55.1% (n=109) and high breastfeeding self-efficacy was 70.7% (n=140). Multivariate logistic regression models revealed that mothers aged above 25 years (adjusted OR, AOR 3.1, 95% CI 1.2 to 7.9), being Bamar (AOR 2.3, 95% CI 1.2 to 4.4), having support from husband (AOR 2.3, 95% CI 1.2 to 4.6) and having previous childbirth experience (AOR 2.5, 95% CI 1.3 to 4.8) were the main determinants of good breastfeeding knowledge. Similarly, being Bamar (AOR 2.8, 95% CI 1.5 to 5.3), having high school education (AOR 4.3, 95% CI 1.8 to 10.1) and having access to workplace breastfeeding support (AOR 5.3, 95% CI 1.4 to 20.1) were found to be significant predictors of positive attitudes towards breast feeding. Moreover, mothers aged above 25 years (AOR 2.9, 95% CI 1.1 to 7.8), being Bamar (AOR 2.4, 95% CI 1.2 to 5.1), being unemployed (AOR 7.8, 95% CI 1.9 to 31.9), having support of husband (AOR 3.2, 95% CI 1.5 to 7.0), having previous breastfeeding experience for 6 months or more (AOR 5.0, 95% CI 2.1 to 11.7) and having intention to exclusively breastfeed (AOR 2.7, 95% CI 1.3 to 5.8) had significant associations with high breastfeeding self-efficacy.

Conclusion

The prenatal breastfeeding knowledge, attitudes and self-efficacy among Burmese migrant mothers were influenced by many factors. A comprehensive understanding of these factors will enable policy-makers and healthcare providers to develop context-specific interventions for the promotion of exclusive breast feeding among Burmese migrant mothers in Thailand.

Trial registration number

TCTR20230310004.
Lived experiences of people impacted by gun violence: qualitative analysis of the prescriptions for repair project
Authors: Rice Henry E , Owen Marcia , Johnson Azmen , Swandell Jordan , Nicholson C Phifer , Provencher Sarah , Horne Elizabeth , Solomon Christopher , Ratliff William , Knechtle Will , Campbell Dwayne , Smith Ryan , Graves Lorraine
Published: July 2024

Background

Restorative justice interventions can help address the harm created by gun violence, although few restorative justice programs focus solely on survivors or loved ones of victims of gun violence. Our aim was to assess how gun violence impacts those injured by firearms through qualitative analysis of their lived experiences.

Methods

From August 2022 to October 2023, we operated a program entitled Prescriptions for Repair in Durham, North Carolina, USA, which was supported by community groups, public government, and academia. Through a series of structured listening sessions using a restorative justice framework, trained community-based facilitators helped 30 participants (11 survivors of gun violence and 19 loved ones of victims of gun violence) tell their stories through a non-judgmental narrative process. We conducted a qualitative thematic analysis of the listening sessions from 19 participants to define the major lessons learned from survivors of gun violence. We summarized participant responses into individual-level and community-level views on how to ‘make things as right as possible’.

Results

The lived experiences of gun violence survivors and their loved ones confirmed the inherent value of structured listening programs, how poverty, race and racism impact gun violence, and the need to focus resources on children and youth.

Conclusions

Listening to the survivors of gun violence through restorative justice programs can help address the personal and community harm resulting from gun violence.

Level of evidence

Level IV, prospective observational study.
Identification of full-length genes involved in the biosynthesis of β-caryophyllene and lupeol from the leaf transcriptome of Ayapana triplinervis
Authors: Tanuja  , Parani Madasamy
Published: July 2024

β-Caryophyllene possesses potential anticancer properties against various cancers, including breast, colon, and lung cancer. Therefore, the essential oil of Ayapana triplinervis, which is rich in β-caryophyllene, can be a potential herbal remedy for treating cancer. However, molecular and genomic studies on A. triplinervis are still sparse . In this study, we obtained 14.7 Gb of RNA-Seq data from A. triplinervis leaf RNA and assembled 137 554 transcripts with an N50 value of 1437 bp. We annotated 72 436 (52.7%) transcripts and mapped 10 640 transcripts to 156 biochemical pathways. Among them, 218 were related to terpenoid backbone biosynthesis, while 27 were linked to sesquiterpenoid and triterpenoid pathways. Ninety-four transcripts were annotated in the β-caryophyllene and lupeol pathways. From these transcripts, for the first time, we identified 25 full-length genes encoding all the 17 enzymes involved in β-caryophyllene biosynthesis and an additional five genes involved in lupeol biosynthesis. These genes will be useful for the metabolic engineering of β-caryophyllene and lupeol biosynthesis, not just in A. triplinervis but also in other species.
Dynamic characteristics of electromechanical coupling of body-suspended drive system for high-speed trains under wheel polygonal wear
Authors: Wang Xuan , Wang Jinhai , Yang Jianwei , Yao Dechen , Zhao Yue , Chen Bo
Published: July 2024

Wheel polygonal wear can trigger intense wheel–rail interactions in railway vehicles, posing a significant threat to traffic safety. However, the mechanism and interaction of the influence of wheel polygonal wear on the electromechanical coupling characteristics of high-speed trains remain unclear. Therefore, this paper proposes a joint simulation modelling method that takes into account the integration of the electrical subsystem with the complete mechanical subsystem. A comprehensive analysis is conducted on the dynamic response of the high-speed train’s body-suspended drive system under a wide range of frequency excitations arising from harmonic torque, gear meshing, and wheel polygon wear. The results indicate that the electrical system generates a substantial amount of harmonic frequency components, resulting in a significant increase in the vibration of the train. The wheel polygon wear causes a broadening of the low-frequency resonance band, revealing a relatively prominent observation interval for the dynamic characteristics. Concurrently, it is discovered that the 23rd-order wheel polygon wear excites the system’s resonance frequency, and as the wavelength of the wheel polygon increases, the acceleration vibrations intensify progressively. Research reveals first the interaction of electrical system and mechanical system under wheel polygon wear, especially in the resonance gain characteristics under polygons and harmonic torques.
Trade Openness and the Growth–Poverty Nexus: A Reappraisal with a New Openness Indicator
Authors: DURONGKAVEROJ WANNAPHONG
Published: July 2024

Developing countries have greatly benefited from globalization, coinciding with economic growth and structural transformation. The standard trade theory postulates that trade openness contributes to poverty alleviation directly by changing factor proportions of production and indirectly through the trickle-down effect of growth. Existing multicountry studies using the trade-to-gross-domestic-product ratio to measure openness often fail to find a direct effect of openness on poverty over and above the growth–poverty nexus. This paper is motivated by the concern that the failure of these studies to detect the effectiveness of the factor proportion channel may be due to limitations of the commonly used measure of trade openness: the trade-to-gross-domestic-product ratio. Using a newly constructed index of trade openness, which I dub “the price convergence index,” I find a significant direct effect of openness on poverty reduction. The results also suggest that the impact of growth on poverty is greater for economies with more open trade regimes.
Minimum Wage and Educational Pathways in Indonesia: General or Vocational Tracks?
Authors: PRITADRAJATI DYAH , MERDIKAWATI NURINA , SAXENA SWETA C. , TJAHJADI ALEXANDER M.
Published: July 2024

This study investigates the relationship between minimum wage policies and educational choices, specifically the decision between vocational and general school enrollment. While higher minimum wages often attract students to vocational education as a faster route to employment, our analysis of Indonesia Family Life Survey data finds little evidence of increased enrollment in vocational education. This suggests that hikes in the minimum wage are unlikely to divert students away from general education. Our findings reveal notable heterogeneity, showing that an increase in the minimum wage is associated with a statistically significant reduction in the likelihood of men and individuals in rural areas to opt for vocational education. These findings underscore the critical need for Indonesia to revitalize its vocational education system, striking a balance between general and vocational pathways to equip its workforce with the skills required for a rapidly changing environment.
Invariants of almost complex and almost Kähler manifolds
Authors: Holt Tom , Piovani Riccardo , Tomassini Adriano
Published: July 2024

Given a compact almost complex manifold [Formula: see text], the almost complex invariant [Formula: see text] is defined as the complex dimension of the cohomology space [Formula: see text]. Its properties have been studied mainly when [Formula: see text]. If we endow [Formula: see text] with an almost Hermitian metric [Formula: see text], then the number [Formula: see text], i.e. the complex dimension of the space of Hodge–de Rham harmonic [Formula: see text]-forms, does not depend on the choice of almost Kähler metrics when [Formula: see text]. In this paper, we study the relationship between [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] in dimension [Formula: see text]. We prove [Formula: see text] if [Formula: see text] is non-integrable and observe that [Formula: see text] if the metric is almost Kähler. If [Formula: see text] is a compact quotient of a completely solvable Lie group and [Formula: see text] is a left-invariant almost Kähler structure on [Formula: see text], we prove [Formula: see text]. Finally, we study the [Formula: see text]-pure and [Formula: see text]-full properties of [Formula: see text] on [Formula: see text]-forms for the special dimension [Formula: see text].
Second-Order Optimality Conditions for Interval-Valued Optimization Problem
Authors: Rastogi Sachin , Iqbal Akhlad
Published: July 2024

In this paper, we discuss the second-order KKT-type optimality conditions for interval-valued optimization problem. To derive second-order necessary and sufficient conditions, we use two different methodologies: square slack variable method and the theory of geometric cone optimality conditions for interval-valued objective functions. Furthermore, we discuss two types of order relations LU and center–radius (C–R). To show the validity of our results, we have demonstrated some nontriv ial examples.
A Novel Switching-Type Capacitor Charger with Operation at the CCM/DCM Boundary for Energy Harnessing Applications
Authors: Amraee Meysam , Mazloum Jalil , Siahkalmahalle Behrang Hadian , Mighani Mojtaba
Published: July 2024

This paper presents a new capacitor charger for energy-harnessing applications such as energy transfer from a low-power battery to a load capacitor. The proposed structure uses a switching technique for step-by-step charging of the load capacitor. It comprises a control section, output stage metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistors, and an external inductor. In order to improve the circuit efficiency under different power transfer scenarios, the switching capacitor charger operates at the boundary of continuous conduction mode and discontinuous conduction mode. Two blocks of peak current controller and zero current detector have been employed in a feedback loop to control the inductor current, which resulted in conduction power dissipation reduction. Also, the circuit with switching at low frequencies significantly reduces the switching loss. The performance of the proposed circuit is demonstrated using theoretical elaborations. In addition, the proposed structure is evaluated and simulated in a 0.18[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m standard complementary metal-oxide semiconductor technology. Based on the obtained results, the efficiency of the presented circuit at 15.62[Formula: see text]mW input power is 96%, and the charging time is about 0.54[Formula: see text]ms, which is suitable for low-power applications.
Using Peer Assessment Leveraging Large Language Models in Software Engineering Education
Authors: Fiore Marco , Mongiello Marina
Published: July 2024

This paper explores the integration of generative AI and large language models into the realm of software engineering education and training, with a specific focus on the transformation of traditional peer assessment methodologies. The motivation stems from the growing demand for innovative educational techniques that can effectively engage and empower learners in mastering Software Engineering principles. The proposed approach involves presenting students with modeling exercises solved by ChatGPT, prompting them to critically evaluate and provide constructive feedback on the generated solutions. By engaging students in a dialogue with the AI model, we aim to foster a dynamic learning environment where learners can articulate their considerations and insights, thereby enhancing their comprehension of software engineering principles, critical thinking and self evaluation skills. Preliminary results from pilot implementations indicate promising outcomes, suggesting that this approach not only enhances the quality of peer feedback but also contributes to a more interactive and engaging educational experience.
COMPLEXITY-BASED ANALYSIS IN BIOMEDICAL IMAGE ANALYSIS: A REVIEW
Authors: PAKNIYAT NAJMEH , ABDULLAH JAMALUDDIN , KREJCAR ONDREJ , NAMAZI HAMIDREZA
Published: July 2024

This review paper provides an overview of complexity-based analysis techniques in biomedical image analysis, examining their theoretical foundations, computational methodologies, and practical applications across various medical imaging modalities. Through a synthesis of relevant literature, we explore the utility of complexity-based metrics such as fractal dimension, entropy measures, and network analysis in characterizing the complexity of biomedical images (e.g. magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT) scans, X-ray images). Additionally, we discuss the clinical implications of complexity-based analysis in areas such as cancer detection, neuroimaging, and cardiovascular imaging, highlighting its potential to improve diagnostic accuracy, prognostic assessment, and treatment outcomes. The review concludes that complexity-based analysis significantly enhances the interpretability and diagnostic power of biomedical imaging, paving the way for more personalized and precise medical care. By elucidating the role of complexity-based analysis in biomedical image analysis, this review aims to provide insights into current trends, challenges, and future directions in this rapidly evolving field.
A NOVEL DOUBLE-SIDE LASER WELDED THICK PLATE: MICROSTRUCTURE AND NUMERICAL PREDICTION OF TENSILE TEST
Authors: VEEMAN DHINAKARAN , VELLAISAMY MURUGAN , THANIGAINATHAN SARANKUMAR , BROWNE MICHEAL AGNELO , SUBRAMANIYAN MOHAN KUMAR
Published: July 2024

The study aims to provide firsthand knowledge on finite element simulation (FES) of double-side laser welded (LW) stainless steel 304 (SS-304) thick plates used for automobile application. Double-side welding technique is an idea of achieving complete penetration with minimal heat input. The microstructural evaluation revealed the presence of dendritic growth that results in the enhancement of tensile strength (TS) for the welded sample. There is a slight increase in the delta ferrite content in weldment. The change in microstructure is due to thermal history during solidification. The TS of base metal (BM) was [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]MPa whereas the welded sample exhibited strength of [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]MPa. FES was successfully employed to simulate TS with error percentage less than 1.
Overturning Resistance of Structure Base-Isolated by Laminated Rubber Bearing Considering Pounding Against the Moat Wall
Authors: Zhang Jingcai , Li Wangjingyi , Yang Hao , Ji Xin , Gu Lingxi , Wang Bo , Han Xinyi , Han Dong , Xu Jianhui , Li Yingna , Cheng Liang , Zhang Chunwei
Published: July 2024

The overturning resistance of structures base-isolated using laminated rubber bearings (LRBs) is crucial to the stability of the structure due to the poor tensile performance of LRBs. Pounding occurs between the structure and moat wall, which can result in a reduction of the overturning resistance of the structure. This study aims to investigate the overturning resistance of a structure base-isolated by LRBs considering pounding against the moat wall based on numerical simulations. The influence of the gap size, pounding stiffness, and the horizontal stiffness of the isolation storey on the overturning resistance of the isolated structure was evaluated through parameter studies. The results indicate that poundings between the structure and moat wall result in short but large pounding forces. Pounding forces would amplify acceleration, inter-storey drifts of the isolated structure, and significantly increase the risk of overturning of the isolated structure. Increasing the gap ratio can improve the seismic performance of the structure. Larger pounding stiffness leads to greater pounding forces generated by the structure, and the risk of overturning of the structure increases. The coefficient of overturning resistance initially decreases, and then increases, as the stiffness of the isolation storey increases.
Experimental Analysis and Hybrid-Optimization of Micro-ECDM Process Parameters to Enhance Micro-Machining Performances of Silica by Gaussian-Quantum-PSO
Authors: Mondal Krishnendu , Mallick Bijan , Hameed Azzam Sabah , Sarkar Anindya , Mahato Jayanta , Dutta Pijush , Bose Bidesh
Published: July 2024

Nowadays, hybridization of different algorithms for the optimization of non-conventional machining processes tries to accomplish better results. The paper consists of experimental evolutionary-particle Swarm Optimization (PSO), Quantum-PSO and Gaussian Quantum Particle Swarm Optimization (G-QPSO)-based ANN modeling and comparative investigation on performances such as material removal rate (MRR), machining depth (MD), roughness of surface and overcut (OC) for machining of silica by ECDM process using mixed electrolyte. The paper also shows the co-efficient of NN models for different machining criteria and G-QPSO and also the comparative study of MD, roughness (SR), overcut (OC) as well as MRR using different algorithms and convergence test for fitness of experimental results also propounded to achieve cross-validation of models and multi-response optimal results for micro-machining of Silica by ECDM using PSO, QPSO and GQPSO. It is found that Gaussian Quantum Particle Swarm Optimization (G-QPSO)-ANN is more efficient for ECDM and achieves optimal results at 55-volt, pulse on time 52.3 s, inter-electrode gap (IEG) 30 mm, duty ratio 0.475 and electrolytic concentration 30 (wt.%).