bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Degeneration of 7-Dimensional Minimal Hypersurfaces Which are Stable or Have a Bounded Index
Authors: Edelen Nick
Published: July 2024

A 7-dimensional area-minimizing embedded hypersurface $$M^7$$

M
7

will in general have a discrete singular set, and the same is true if M is locally stable provided $${\mathcal {H}}^6(\textrm{sing}M) = 0$$

H

6

(
sing
M
)

=
0

. We show that if $$M_i^7$$

M
i
7

is a sequence of 7D minimal hypersurfaces which are minimizing, stable, or have bounded index, then $$M_i \rightarrow M$$

M
i

→
M

can limit to a singular $$M^7$$

M
7

with only very controlled geometry, topology, and singular set. We show that one can always “parameterize” a subsequence $$i'$$

i
′

with controlled bi-Lipschitz maps $$\phi _{i'}$$

ϕ

i
′

taking $$\phi _{i'}(M_{1'}) = M_{i'}$$

ϕ

i
′

(

M

1
′

)

=

M

i
′

. As a consequence, we prove the space of smooth, closed, embedded minimal hypersurfaces M in a closed Riemannian 8-manifold $$(N^8, g)$$

(

N
8

,
g
)

with a priori bounds $${\mathcal {H}}^7(M) \leqq \Lambda $$

H

7

(
M
)

≦
Λ

and $$\textrm{index}(M) \leqq I$$

index
(
M
)
≦
I

divides into finitely-many diffeomorphism types, and this finiteness continues to hold if one allows the metric g to vary, or M to be singular.
Spatial and Temporal Shifts of Endophytic Bacteria in Conifer Seedlings of Abies religiosa (Kunth) Schltdl. & Cham.
Authors: Dendooven Luc , Pérez-Hernández Valentín , Navarro-Pérez Gabriel , Tlalmis-Corona Juanita , Navarro-Noya Yendi E.
Published: July 2024

Endophytes play an important role in plant development, survival, and establishment, but their temporal dynamics in young conifer plants are still largely unknown. In this study, the bacterial community was determined by metabarcoding of the 16S rRNA gene in the rhizoplane, roots, and aerial parts of 1- and 5-month-old seedlings of natural populations of Abies religiosa (Kunth) Schltdl. & Cham. In 1-month-old seedlings, Pseudomonas dominated aerial parts (relative abundance 71.6%) and roots (37.9%). However, the roots exhibited significantly higher bacterial species richness than the aerial parts, with the dissimilarity between these plant sections mostly explained by the loss of bacterial amplification sequence variants. After 5 months, Mucilaginibacter dominated in the rhizoplane (9.0%), Streptomyces in the roots (12.2%), and Pseudomonas in the aerial parts (18.1%). The bacterial richness and community structure differed significantly between the plant sections, and these variations were explained mostly by 1-for-1 substitution. The relative abundance of putative metabolic pathways significantly differed between the plant sections at both 1 and 5 months. All the dominant bacterial genera (e.g., Pseudomonas and Burkholderia-Caballeronia-Paraburkholderia) have been reported to have plant growth-promoting capacities and/or antagonism against pathogens, but what defines their role for plant development has still to be determined. This investigation improves our understanding of the early plant-bacteria interactions essential for natural regeneration of A. religiosa forest.
Identifying antibiotic-resistant strains via cell sorting and elastic-light-scatter phenotyping
Authors: Narayana Iyengar Sharath , Dowden Brianna , Ragheb Kathy , Patsekin Valery , Rajwa Bartek , Bae Euiwon , Robinson J. Paul
Published: July 2024

The proliferation and dissemination of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria is an increasingly global challenge and is attributed mainly to the excessive or improper use of antibiotics. Currently, the gold-standard phenotypic methodology for detecting resistant strains is agar plating, which is a time-consuming process that involves multiple subculturing steps. Genotypic analysis techniques are fast, but they require pure starting samples and cannot differentiate between viable and non-viable organisms. Thus, there is a need to develop a better method to identify and prevent the spread of antimicrobial resistance. This work presents a novel method for detecting and identifying antibiotic-resistant strains by combining a cell sorter for bacterial detection and an elastic-light-scattering method for bacterial classification. The cell sorter was equipped with safety mechanisms for handling pathogenic organisms and enabled precise placement of individual bacteria onto an agar plate. The patterning was performed on an antibiotic-gradient plate, where the growth of colonies in sections with high antibiotic concentrations confirmed the presence of a resistant strain. The antibiotic-gradient plate was also tested with an elastic-light-scattering device where each colony’s unique colony scatter pattern was recorded and classified using machine learning for rapid identification of bacteria. Sorting and patterning bacteria on an antibiotic-gradient plate using a cell sorter reduced the number of subculturing steps and allowed direct qualitative binary detection of resistant strains. Elastic-light-scattering technology is a rapid, label-free, and non-destructive method that permits instantaneous classification of pathogenic strains based on the unique bacterial colony scatter pattern.

Key points

• Individual bacteria cells are placed on gradient agar plates by a cell sorter

• Laser-light scatter patterns are used to recognize antibiotic-resistant organisms

• Scatter patterns formed by colonies correspond to AMR-associated phenotypes
Use of a new vertical traction device for early traction-assisted staged closure of congenital abdominal wall defects: a prospective series of 16 patients
Authors: Ziegler Anna-Maria , Svoboda Daniel , Lüken-Darius Britta , Heydweiller Andreas , Kahl Fritz , Falk Sophie Christine , Rolle Udo , Theilen Till-Martin
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Abdominal wall closure in patients with giant omphalocele (GOC) and complicated gastroschisis (GS) remains to be a surgical challenge. To facilitate an early complete abdominal wall closure, we investigated the combination of a staged closure technique with continuous traction to the abdominal wall using a newly designed vertical traction device for newborns.

Methods

Four tertiary pediatric surgery departments participated in the study between 04/2022 and 11/2023. In case primary organ reduction and abdominal wall closure were not amenable, patients underwent a traction-assisted abdominal wall closure applying fasciotens®Pediatric. Outcome parameters were time to closure, surgical complications, infections, and hernia formation.

Results

Ten patients with GOC and 6 patients with GS were included. Complete fascial closure was achieved after a median time of 7 days (range 4–22) in GOC and 5 days (range 4–11) in GS. There were two cases of tear-outs of traction sutures and one skin suture line dehiscence after fascial closure. No surgical site infection or signs of abdominal compartment syndrome were seen. No ventral or umbilical hernia occurred after a median follow-up of 12 months (range 4–22).

Conclusion

Traction-assisted staged closure using fasciotens®Pediatric enabled an early tension-less fascial closure in GOC and GS in the newborn period.
Forensic age estimation of adolescents using computed tomography of the clavicles
Authors: Vamberszky Leonie , Uhl Markus
Published: July 2024

In forensic age estimation, CT imaging of the clavicles is used to determine an age over completed 21 years. If ossification of the medial clavicular epiphysis is complete, young men are assumed to be over 21 years of age. The aim of this study is to check the statistical parameters (specificity, predictive probability) for the characteristic "completed ossification of the medial clavicles". 285 male patients who, for various reasons, received a chest CT at the Medical Center of the University of Freiburg between 1st December 2019 and 6th December 2022 were screened for the study, of whom 203 patients were included in the study. The stage of clavicular ossification was classified as stage 1 – 5 according to Schmeling. While 70 out of 71 patients under 21 years of age were correctly estimated to be under 21 years of age, there was one patient whose ossification on one side was classified as stage 4 and who would therefore have been estimated to be over 21 years of age. If only subjects whose ossification stage was the same on both sides are included, the specificity of the test method is 100% and the positive predictive probability is 100%. If patients for whom only one side is stage 4 are also included, the specificity is 98.6%. Thus, only the complete and symmetrical ossification of both clavicles (stage 4 according to the Schmeling classification) in a standardised thin-layer CT can be classified as a reliable indicator of an age over 21 years in young men. In the case of asymmetric ossification of the medial clavicles (stage 4 is not reached on one side), false positive evaluations and the incorrect assumption of an age over 21 years can occur.
Longitudinal changes in cardiovascular disease–related proteins in welders
Authors: Dauter Ulrike Maria , Gliga Anda Roxana , Albin Maria , Broberg Karin
Published: July 2024

Objective

Occupational exposure to welding fumes is linked to a higher risk of cardiovascular disease; however, the threshold exposure level is unknown. Here, we aimed to identify changes in proteins associated with cardiovascular disease in relation to exposure to welding fumes.

Methods

Data were obtained from two timepoints six years apart for 338 non-smoking men (171 welders, 167 controls); of these, 174 (78 welders, 96 controls) had measurements available at both timepoints. Exposure was measured as personal respirable dust (adjusted for personal protective equipment), welding years, and cumulative exposure. Proximity extension assays were used to measure a panel of 92 proteins involved in cardiovascular processes in serum samples. Linear mixed models were used for longitudinal analysis. The biological functions and diseases related to the identified proteins were explored using the Ingenuity Pathway Analysis software.

Results

At both timepoints, the median respirable dust exposure was 0.7 mg/m3 for the welders. Seven proteins were differentially abundant between the welders and controls and increased incrementally with respirable dust: FGF23, CEACAM8, CD40L, PGF, CXCL1, CD84, and HO1. CD84 was significant after adjusting for multiple comparisons. These proteins have been linked to disorders of blood pressure, damage related to clogged blood vessels, and chronic inflammatory disorders.

Conclusion

Exposure to mild steel welding fumes below current occupational exposure limits for respirable particles and welding fumes in Europe and the US (1–5 mg/m3) was associated with changes in the abundance of proteins related to cardiovascular disease. Further research should evaluate the utility of these proteins as prospective biomarkers of occupational cardiovascular disease.
Autumn Leucojum autumnale and spring L. trichophyllum: the same flower type for different seasons with a different pollination scenario
Authors: Muñoz-Rodríguez Adolfo Francisco , Camino Barón Ignacio , Ortega-Olivencia Ana
Published: July 2024

Plant reproduction may experience distinct evolutionary and ecological dynamics depending on their flowering phenology. Consequently, floral traits might undergo divergence selection to adapt to the difference in the abiotic and the biotic environment, especially if these traits affect intensity of competition plants experience due to pollinators. The present study analyzed the plant floral display, floral rewards, and the pollination and breeding systems of two related species of Leucojum, the autumn-blooming L. autumnale and the spring-blooming L. trichophyllum. The aim of the current study is to compare reproductive aspects of L. autumnale and L. trichophyllum due to differing environmental conditions. Both species needed pollinators to reproduce sexually, with zero (L. trichophyllum) or low values (c. 7.7%; L. autumnale) for fructification after self-pollination vs. over 90% after natural pollination (both species). Their flowers opened in the morning and closed at night, and neither produced nectar, only pollen as reward to pollinators. Plants of the L. autumnale studied population produced 1–4 inflorescences per plant vs. only 1 in L. trichophyllum, and the former presented a greater density of flowers per surface unit. Leucojum autumnale flowers were visited by Hymenoptera and those of L. trichophyllum only by two Coleoptera, which were most abundant at sunrise and sunset, whereas in the middle of the day, they visited Cistaceae flowers. This latter occurrence may represent a temporal niche partitioning rather than competition in relation to visiting hours, as the L. trichophyllum flowers offer a place for insects to spend the night, a period in which the flowers of the Cistaceae species have lost their petals.
Safety of anterior cervical corpectomy and fusion (ACCF) for the treatment of subaxial cervical spine injuries, a single center comparative matched analysis
Authors: El-Hajj Victor Gabriel , Singh Aman , Fletcher-Sandersjöö Alexander , Blixt Simon , Stenimahitis Vasilios , Nilsson Gunnar , Gerdhem Paul , Edström Erik , Elmi-Terander Adrian
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF) and Anterior Cervical Corpectomy and Fusion (ACCF) are both common surgical procedures in the management of pathologies of the subaxial cervical spine. While recent reviews have demonstrated ACCF to provide better decompression results compared to ACDF, the procedure has been associated with increased surgical risks. Nonetheless, the use of ACCF in a traumatic context has been poorly described. The aim of this study was to assess the safety of ACCF as compared to the more commonly performed ACDF.

Methods

All patients undergoing ACCF or ACDF for subaxial cervical spine injuries spanning over 2 disc-spaces and 3 vertebral-levels, between 2006 and 2018, at the study center, were eligible for inclusion. Patients were matched based on age and preoperative ASIA score.

Results

After matching, 60 patients were included in the matched analysis, where 30 underwent ACDF and ACCF, respectively. Vertebral body injury was significantly more common in the ACCF group (p = 0.002), while traumatic disc rupture was more frequent in the ACDF group (p = 0.032). There were no statistically significant differences in the rates of surgical complications, including implant failure, wound infection, dysphagia, CSF leakage between the groups (p ≥ 0.05). The rates of revision surgeries (p > 0.999), mortality (p = 0.222), and long-term ASIA scores (p = 0.081) were also similar.

Conclusion

Results of both unmatched and matched analyses indicate that ACCF has comparable outcomes and no additional risks compared to ACDF. It is thus a safe approach and should be considered for patients with extensive anterior column injury.
Carbon and water vapor exchanges coupling for different irrigated and rainfed conditions on Andean potato agroecosystems
Authors: Martínez-Maldonado Fabio Ernesto , Castaño-Marín Angela María , Góez-Vinasco Gerardo Antonio , Marin Fabio Ricardo
Published: July 2024

The fundamental exchange of water for carbon lays the groundwork for understanding the interplay between carbon and water cycles in terrestrial ecosystems, providing valuable insights into global water and carbon balances and vegetation growth. Inherent water use efficiency (IWUE) was used as a study framework of the diurnal patterns and degree of coupling of carbon and water exchange to investigate the net ecosystem carbon exchange (NEE) responses of three water regime potato cropping systems [full-irrigation (FI), deficit-irrigation (DI), and rainfed (RF)] in Cundinamarca, Colombia. The eddy covariance method was used to determine CO2and water fluxes, surface resistances, and the omega decoupling factor (Ω). Additionally, leaf area index (LAI), and specific leaf area (SLA) were assessed to determine the canopy influence on carbon and water exchange. The highest carbon sink activity (NEE = -311.96 ± 12.82 g C m−2) at FI, is primarily attributed to a larger canopy with high autotrophic activity and low internal resistance. This supported a highly coupled and synchronized exchange between evapotranspiration (ET) and gross primary production (GPP), as reflected in the highest IWUE (4.7 mg C kPa s−1 kg−1H2O). In contrast, the lower sink capacity at DI (NEE =  − 17.3 ± 4.6 g C m−2) and the net carbon source activity from RF (NEE = 187.21 ± 3.84 g C m−2) were related to a smaller leaf area available for water and carbon exchange, resulting in lower IWUE (2.3 and 1.01 mg C kPa s−1 kg−1H2O, respectively) and a decoupled and desynchronized gas exchange caused by unbalanced restrictions on ET and GPP fluxes. These results provide new information on carbon–water interactions in potatoes and improve the understanding of carbon sequestration and drought effects on potato sink activity.
Inflammation as a therapeutic target for osteoarthritis: A literature review of clinical trials
Authors: Zhu Rui , Fang Haonan , Wang Junjie , Ge Liru , Zhang Xiaoyue , Aitken Dawn , Cai Guoqi
Published: July 2024

The burden of osteoarthritis (OA) is rapidly increasing with population aging, but there are still no approved disease-modifying drugs available. Accumulating evidence has shown that OA is a heterogeneous disease with multiple phenotypes, and it is unlikely to respond to one-size-fits-all treatments. Inflammation is recognized as an important phenotype of OA and is associated with worse pain and joint deterioration. Therefore, it is believed that anti-inflammatory treatments may be more effective for OA with an inflammatory phenotype. In this review, we summarized clinical trials that evaluated anti-inflammatory treatments for OA and discussed whether these treatments are more effective in inflammatory OA phenotypes compared to general OA patients.
Biomarkers to predict efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors in colorectal cancer patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Yu Hang , Liu Qingquan , Wu Keting , Tang Shuang
Published: July 2024

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are approved to treat colorectal cancer (CRC) with mismatch-repair gene deficiency, but the response rate remains low. Value of current biomarkers to predict CRC patients’ response to ICIs is unclear due to heterogeneous study designs and small sample sizes. Here, we aim to assess and quantify the magnitude of multiple biomarkers for predicting the efficacy of ICIs in CRC patients. We systematically searched MEDLINE, Embase, the Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases (to June 2023) for clinical studies examining biomarkers for efficacy of ICIs in CRC patients. Random-effect models were performed for meta-analysis. We pooled odds ratio (OR) and hazard ratio (HR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) for biomarkers predicting response rate and survival. 36 studies with 1867 patients were included in systematic review. We found that a lower pre-treatment blood neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (n=4, HR 0.37, 95%CI 0.21–0.67) predicts good prognosis, higher tumor mutation burden (n=10, OR 4.83, 95%CI 2.16–10.78) predicts response to ICIs, and liver metastasis (n=16, OR 0.32, 95%CI 0.16–0.63) indicates resistance to ICIs, especially when combined with VEGFR inhibitors. But the predictive value of tumor PD-L1 expression (n=9, OR 1.01, 95%CI 0.48–2.14) was insignificant in CRC. Blood neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, tumor mutation burden, and liver metastasis, but not tumor PD-L1 expression, function as significant biomarkers to predict efficacy of ICIs in CRC patients. These findings help stratify CRC patients suitable for ICI treatments, improving efficacy of immunotherapy through precise patient management. (PROSPERO, CRD42022346716).
The multifaceted perspectives on the regulation of lncRNAs in hepatocellular carcinoma ferroptosis: from bench-to-bedside
Authors: Jin Xin , Huang Chun Xia , Tian Yue
Published: July 2024

Despite being characterized by high malignancy, high morbidity, and low survival rates, the underlying mechanism of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has not been fully elucidated. Ferroptosis, a non-apoptotic form of regulated cell death, possesses distinct morphological, biochemical, and genetic characteristics compared to other types of cell death. Dysregulated actions within the molecular network that regulates ferroptosis have been identified as significant contributors to the progression of HCC. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have emerged as influential contributors to diverse cellular processes, regulating gene function and expression through multiple mechanistic pathways. An increasing body of evidence indicates that deregulated lncRNAs are implicated in regulating malignant events such as cell proliferation, growth, invasion, and metabolism by influencing ferroptosis in HCC. Therefore, elucidating the inherent role of ferroptosis and the modulatory functions of lncRNAs on ferroptosis in HCC might promote the development of novel therapeutic interventions for this disease. This review provides a succinct overview of the roles of ferroptosis and ferroptosis-related lncRNAs in HCC progression and treatment, aiming to drive the development of promising therapeutic targets and biomarkers for HCC patients.
Potential prognostic impact of left-ventricular global longitudinal strain in analysis of whole-heart myocardial mechanics in nonischemic dilated cardiomyopathy
Authors: Mėlinytė-Ankudavičė Karolina , Marcinkevičienė Karolina , Galnaitienė Grytė , Bučius Paulius , Lapinskas Tomas , Ereminienė Eglė , Šakalytė Gintarė , Jurkevičius Renaldas
Published: July 2024

Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) feature-tracking (FT) has an important diagnostic role in non-ischemic dilated cardiomyopathy (NIDCM). To date, the relationship between whole-heart myocardial mechanics by CMR and early primary outcomes in NIDCM has not been elucidated. patients with NIDCM were eligible for this study. CMR-FT was used to analyze whole-heart myocardial mechanics. The primary outcomes were a composite of heart failure (HF) death, heart transplantation (HT), and hospitalization for HF worsening (WHF) after 1-year since diagnosis. 98 patients were included. During a 1-year follow-up, a worse prognosis occurred in 32 patients (30 hospitalizations for WHF, 8 deaths, and 3 HT). The left ventricular (LV) global longitudinal systolic strain (GLS), left ventricular global circumferential strain (LV GCS), strains of right ventricle and both atria were significantly reduced in patients with events vs. those without (GLS − 8.0 ± 3.4 vs. − 12.1 ± 4.5, p < 0.001; GCS − 13.0 ± 6.4 vs. − 18.3 ± 7.1, p < 0.001; right ventricular (RV) GLS − 12.1 ± 4.9 vs. − 17.4 ± 6.4, p < 0.001; left atrial longitudinal strain 7.5 ± 3.8 vs. 15.1 ± 12.3, p < 0.001; right atrial longitudinal strain 11.0 ± 6.7 vs. 17.2 ± 8.0, p < 0.001). Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) was significantly higher in patients with better prognosis (22.7 ± 8.7 vs. 33.56 ± 10.4, p < 0.001). Multivariate regression analysis revealed LV GLS as an independent predictor of a worse prognosis (OR 0.787, CI 95% 0.697–0.890, p < 0.001). reduction of LV GLS showed the strongest predictive value for the composite outcome of WHF, HT, and HF death.

Graphical abstract
Mathematical Knowledge of Early Algebra Exhibited by Pre-Service Early Childhood Education Teachers
Authors: Pincheira Nataly , Alsina Ángel
Published: July 2024

This study analyzes the mathematical knowledge to teach early algebra exhibited by pre-service early childhood education teachers, from the perspective of the Mathematical Knowledge for Teaching (MKT) model. The research adopts a mixed exploratory-descriptive methodological approach, based on the application of the MKT-early algebra questionnaire (3–6), consisting of six open-ended items that place teachers in various teaching situations reflecting the knowledge that characterizes early algebra at this stage of schooling. The analysis of the answers given by the pre-service teachers of early childhood education revealed a level general of insufficient mathematical knowledge, with the common content knowledge exhibiting fewer limitations compared to the other subdomains that comprise the model, and the horizon content knowledge the weakest. We conclude that it is necessary to offer teacher training programs that deepen the didactics of early algebra and provide tools to further the effective teaching of this content block in early childhood education.
Eco-friendly Fluorescent Sensor for Sensitive and Selective Detection of Zn2+ and Fe3+ Ions: Applications in Human Hair Samples
Authors: Kamel Rasha M. , El-Sakka Sahar S. , Abbas Maram M. A. , Soliman M. H. A.
Published: July 2024

A new eco-friendly sensor, 3-((6-((4-chlorobenzylidene)amino)pyridin-2-yl)imino)indolin-2-one (CBAPI) was synthesized and well characterized. The CBAPI sensor was employed for detecting Zn2+ and Fe3+ ions. It exhibited a low limit of detection at pH 6.0, with values of 2.90, for Zn2+ and 3.59 nmol L−1 for Fe3+ ions. The sensor demonstrated high selectivity over other interfering cations. Additionally, the high binding constants reflect the great affinity of sensor towards Zn2+ and Fe3+ ions. To further validate its quantification ability for Zn2+ ions, the synthesized CBAPI sensor was used to determine Zn levels in human hair samples, and the results were confirmed using atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS). The AGREE metric tool was used to assess the method’s environmental impact and practical applicability. These positive outcomes indicated that the new method for detecting Zn2+ and Fe3+ ions is environmentally friendly and safe for humans. The developed CBAPI sensor represents a potential development in metal ion detection, combining sensitivity, selectivity, and rapidity.
Health Related Quality of life Amongst Refugees: A meta Analysis of Studies Using the SF-36
Authors: Essex Ryan , Govintharjah Poonkulali , Issa Rita , Kalocsányiová Erika , Lakika Dostin , Markowski Marianne , Smith James , Thompson Trevor
Published: July 2024

The health of refugees has been widely documented, as has the impact of a range of factors throughout the migration journey from being exposed to violence to the impacts of immigration detention. This study adds to our understanding of health-related quality of life amongst refugees and asylum seekers by evaluating health-related quality of life as measured by the Short-Form 36 (SF-36) Health Survey using meta-analysis. The aims of this study were to (1) provide a summary and overview of health-related quality of life (as measured by the SF-36), including the extent to which this varies and (2) explore the factors that influence health-related quality of life (as measured by the SF-36) amongst refugees and asylum seekers. A search was undertaken of MEDLINE, CINAHL, PSYCINFO and SCOPUS, returning 3965 results. Papers were included if they sampled refugees (or asylum seeker or those with refugee-like experiences) and used the SF-36 (or its variants) as an outcome measure. Mean scores and standard deviations were pooled using a random effects model. The pooled sample size was 18,418. The pooled mean scores for the SF-36 physical summary measures was 54.99 (95% CI 46.01–63.99), while the mental health summary measure was 52.39 (95% CI 43.35–61.43). The pooled mean scores for each of the sub-scales ranged from 49.6 (vitality) to 65.54 (physical functioning). High heterogeneity was found between both summary measures and all sub-scales. In comparison to SF-36 results from general populations in high and middle income countries, these results suggest that refugee quality of life is generally poorer. However, this varied substantially between studies. One issue that is not well clarified by this review are the factors that contributed to health-related quality of life.
Exergy analysis of a gas turbine cycle power plant: a case study of power plant in Egypt
Authors: Elwardany Mohamed , Nassib A. M. , Mohamed Hany A.
Published: July 2024

This research presents an exergy analysis of a gas turbine power plant situated in Assiut, Egypt, operating under high-temperature conditions. The aim of the study is to assess the performance of the simple gas turbine cycle and identify the sources of thermodynamic inefficiencies using the second law of thermodynamics as a basis for analysis. To accomplish this, a model was developed in EES software utilizing real operational data obtained from the plant's control system. The investigation focused on the impact of varying ambient temperature on the exergy efficiency, exergy destruction, and net power output of the cycle. The results revealed that the combustion chamber accounted for the highest exergy destruction, amounting to 85.22%. This was followed by the compressor at 8.42% and the turbine at 6.36%. The overall energy and exergy efficiencies of the system were determined to be 28.8% and 27.17%, respectively. Furthermore, the study examined the effects of increasing ambient temperature from 0 to 45°C on the system's performance. It was observed that as the temperature rose, the overall exergy efficiency decreased from 27.91 to 26.63%. Simultaneously, the total exergy destruction increased from 126,407 to 138,135 kW. Additionally, the net power output exhibited a decline from 88,084 to 84,051 kW across the same ambient temperature range. These findings highlight the significant influence of ambient temperature on the thermodynamic performance of gas turbine power plants. As temperature rises, a greater amount of exergy is lost, resulting in reduced efficiency and diminished net power output. Therefore, optimizing the design of the combustion chamber is crucial for mitigating the adverse effects of hot weather conditions. The insights obtained from this study can be utilized to enhance the design and operation of gas turbine plants operating in hot climates.
Chemical characterization of green liquor dregs from 16 Swedish pulp and paper mills between 2017 and 2019
Authors: Stahre Nanna , Sartz Lotta , Bäckström Mattias
Published: July 2024

Green liquor dregs (GLD) is an alkaline by-product from the pulp and paper industry with a pH between 10 and 14. Today most of the produced GLD in Sweden is landfilled. As a fine-grained alkaline material, it might be possible to use it for acid-generating mining waste remediation. To increase the utilization, quality characteristics and environmental performance need to be determined. In this study samples were collected 5 times from 16 mills during a period of 2.5 years, and were characterized by analyzing dry matter content, loss on ignition (LOI) 550 °C and LOI 950 °C, elemental analysis, pH, electrical conductivity, and calorific value. The results were then evaluated using multivariate statistics (PCA) as well as being compared to other studies and Swedish till. The results show that even if GLD is heterogenous (both within a mill and between different mills) trends can be seen for samples from most mills. When samples do stand out, it is predominately related to the same four mills. Most of the studied parameters showed characteristics favorable for use as a remediant; however, TOC, sulfur, and some of the elements require further study. In general, this study concludes that GLD can be a viable option for the remediation of small orphaned sulfidic mining sites and thus worthy of further studies on the interaction between GLD and acidic mining waste.

Overall, GLD can be a good alternative for cost-effective remediation of smaller orphaned mining sites. It is readily available in large quantities, has the qualities needed for remediation of many orphaned acidic mining sites, and can often be locally sourced near the mining site. The use of GLD for mining site remediation is likely also a more sustainable method compared to traditional remediation methods.
On the value of a time-inconsistent mean-field zero-sum Dynkin game
Authors: Djehiche Boualem
Published: July 2024

We study a mean-field zero-sum Dynkin game (MF-ZSDG) with time-inconsistent performance functionals adapted to the Brownian filtration. Despite the time-inconsistency of the MF-ZSDG, we show that it admits a value and that the pair of first times the value process hits the upper and lower obstacles, respectively, is a saddle point for the game. We solve the problem by approximating the associated lower and upper value processes with a sequence of value processes of interacting time-consistent zero-sum Dynkin games for which the saddle point of each of the value processes is the pair of first times each of those value processes hits the associated upper and lower obstacles, respectively. Under mild assumptions, we show that this sequence of saddle points converges in probability to the pair of first hitting times of the value process of the upper and lower obstacles, respectively, and that the limit is a saddle point for the time-inconsistent MF-ZSDG.
Soil chemical quality indicators for agricultural life cycle assessment: a case of study in Brazil
Authors: Lucas K. R. G. , Ventura M. U. , Debiasi H. , Ralisch R. , Dos Santos J. C. F. , Folegatti-Matssura M. I. S.
Published: July 2024

Modern agriculture has had to face complex environmental issues, many of which result from land use, which includes the degradation of its fertility properties. Soil quality is fundamental to the sustainability of the planet, as it also affects other natural resources. Therefore, it must be seen as a fundamental action for the sustainability of the planet and be evaluated using methodologies capable of holistically relating the environmental impacts of production systems, as does the Life cycle assessment (LCA) methodology. However, due to the lack of suitable models, LCA is still ineffective in assessing soil quality. Therefore, our objective was to evaluate the use of chemical soil quality indicators in the context of LCA, contributing new information to the debate. To this end, a set of soil quality indicators from the APOIA-NovoRural method were applied in some agricultural production systems in southern Brazil. Thus, the LCA results confirmed soil quality maintenance activities as those that most contribute to impacts, particularly in the categories of climate change, (eco)toxicities and land use. However, the indicators efficiently contributed direct information about the agricultural environment, relating them to the impacts estimated by the LCA. Therefore, the use of indicators makes it possible to improve soil management by adjusting chemical parameters, accurately contextualizing activities, and use of inputs to the real conditions of the area assessed. Thus, we demonstrate that indicators can be useful in providing information for agricultural environmental management in interrelation with LCA, whose application alone is not yet capable of achieving such results.
Modeling and mitigation of vortex formation in ejector deep hole drilling with smoothed particle hydrodynamics
Authors: Baumann Andreas , Gerken Julian Frederic , Sollich Daniel , Rupasinghe Nuwan , Biermann Dirk , Eberhard Peter
Published: July 2024

Ejector deep hole drilling achieves high-quality boreholes in production processes. High feed rates are applied to ensure a high productivity level, requiring reliable chip removal from the cutting zone for a stable process. Therefore, a constant metalworking fluid flow under high volume flow rates or high pressure is required. Experimental results show a vortex formation at the outer cutting edge. This vortex can lead to delayed chip removal from the cutting zone, and ultimately, it can lead to chip clogging and result in drill breakage due to increased torque. This paper investigates modified drill head designs using the smoothed particle hydrodynamics method. The investigated modifications include various designs of the chip mouth covering. Besides graphical analysis based on flow visualizations, flow meters are placed at the tool’s head to evaluate the impact of the modifications on the flow rate and possible increased resistance and relocation of the fluid flow from the outer cutting edge to other parts of the tool. The simulation results for the reference design show the experimentally observed vortex formation, validating the simulation model. By adding the tool’s rotation in the SPH simulation, which is not included in the experiments for observation reasons, the vortex formation is positively influenced. In addition, some designs show promising results to further mitigate the vortex formation while maintaining a sufficient fluid flow around the cutting edges.
Financial Literacy and Risk Protection During the Covid-19 Pandemic
Authors: Bertola Giuseppe , Lo Prete Anna
Published: July 2024

This study documents that competent access to financial markets can smooth consumption in the face of idiosyncratic income shocks. Using household-level data on financial literacy and financial resilience in Italy during the first phase of the Covid-19 pandemic, we find that financial literacy and financial asset ownership both influenced consumption changes in theoretically sensible ways. The results are robust in specifications controlling for several socio-demographic characteristics, saving choices, public transfers, and to different estimation methods.
Fuzzy rule–based control of multireservoir operation system for flood and drought mitigation in the Upper Mun River Basin
Authors: Phankamolsil Yutthana , Rittima Areeya , Sawangphol Wudhichart , Kraisangka Jidapa , Tabucanon Allan Sriratana , Talaluxmana Yutthana , Vudhivanich Varawoot
Published: July 2024

Strategic reservoir operation, a primary water management measures, plays a significant role in mitigating floods and droughts. Since the reservoir operation involves making complicated decisions on uncertain hydrological variables driven by climate variability, therefore, constructive tool for decision making like fuzzy logic is essential to optimize reservoir management and ensure water security. This study demonstrated fuzzy logic application to multiple reservoir operation in tropical region like Thailand. A Fuzzy Rule–Based Model (FRBM) exploiting FL approach was developed to control the upstream reservoir operation in the Upper Mun River Basin (UMRB) using the data from 2008 to 2021. Implementing FRBM for UMRB was conducted by identifying two key variables; available water storage and 7–day ahead predicted inflow, as fuzzy inputs. The fuzzy output of the system is the release fraction determined by three operational condition modules; flood, neutral, and drought. For flood module, fuzzy release is primarily determined by the predicted inflow. However, the determination of reservoir release for drought and neutral modules is influenced by the targeted water demand. The results of base case illustrate the capability of FRBM in increasing reservoir storages at the start of dry season by 123.56 MCM/yr in UMRB due to the new daily release schemes generated. This allows supplying water closer to the theoretical agricultural needs and gross irrigation water requirement potentially reducing the risk of water shortfall during consecutive dry years. Whereas, the maximum fuzzy release is constrained corresponding to safe channel capacity of tributaries and Upper Mun river, therefore, downstream flooding is accordingly prevented.
Origami-inspired microfluidic paper-based analytical device (μPAD) for microorganism detection
Authors: Sözmen A. Baran , Bayraktar A. Ezgi , Arslan-Yildiz Ahu
Published: July 2024

Pathogenic microorganisms impose great risk especially in resource-limited settings due to inaccessibility of diagnostic tools and monitoring devices. This is mainly caused by current methods often being economically demanding and complex in practice; while these methods are sensitive and accurate, they rarely follow Point-of-care (POC) approaches, which is essential for rapid detection and intervention. Incorporating origami into paper-based analytical devices (μPAD) presents an innovative alternative, offering affordability, portability, and ease of disposal. Herein, a colorimetric origami μPAD that is suitable for use in POC applications was developed. The μPAD was fabricated via laser ablation utilizing PVDF and cellulose membranes. In order to develop the biosensor platform, fabrication parameters were optimized and hydrophilicity of PVDF membranes was improved using various solvents. The PVDF membranes were characterized through light microscopy imaging, protein adsorption assay and contact angle measurements. Then, optimization of the assay parameters was carried out in order to improve sensitivity and resolution of the μPAD, utilizing Box-Behnken experimental design. The responses generated by the origami μPAD in form of visible color development were then analyzed using image processing. After optimization is concluded, E. coli detection was carried out as a model system. Resulting calculations showed a limit of detection (LoD) of 2 CFU/mL and a dynamic working range up to 106 CFU/mL for E. coli. Overall, developed origami μPAD promises an economic advantage compared to conventional methods, and provides rapid and sensitive results without the requirement of expertise or complex equipment.
Assessing the potential impacts of public transport-based crowdshipping: A case study in a central district of Copenhagen
Authors: Cheng Rong , Fessler Andreas , Nielsen Otto Anker , Larsen Allan , Jiang Yu
Published: July 2024

The expansion of e-commerce and the sharing economy has paved the way for crowdshipping as an innovative approach to addressing last-mile delivery challenges. Previous studies and implementations have predominantly concentrated on private vehicle-based crowdshipping, which may lead to increased traffic congestion and emissions due to additional trips made specifically for deliveries. To circumvent these possible adverse effects, this paper explores a public transport (PT)-based crowdshipping concept as a complementary solution to the traditional parcel delivery systems. In this model, PT users leverage their routine journeys to perform delivery tasks. We propose a methodology that includes a parcel locker location model and a vehicle routing model to analyze the effect of PT-based crowdshipping. Notably, the parcel locker location model aids in planning a PT-based crowdshipping network and identifying obstacles to its development. A case study conducted in the central district of Copenhagen utilizing real-world data assesses the effects of PT-based crowdshipping. The findings suggest that PT-based crowdshipping can decrease the total kilometers traveled by vehicles, the overall working hours of drivers, and the number of vans required for last-mile deliveries, thereby alleviating urban traffic congestion and environmental pollution. Nevertheless, the growth of PT-based crowdshipping may be limited by the availability of crowdshippers, indicating that initiatives to increase the number of crowdshippers are essential.
Slum dynamics: the interplay of remittances, waste disposal and health outcomes
Authors: Bari Md Abdul , Khuram Mohammad Ajmal , Khan Ghulam Dastgir , Yoshida Yuichiro
Published: July 2024

Slum dwellers often fail to expend enough on waste disposal to have a healthy life, and remittances provide funds for a household to expend on the betterment of life conditions. This paper examines the impact of remittances on total monthly waste disposal expenditures and the impact of better waste disposal on monthly health expenditures among slum households in Bangladesh. Propensity score matching was adopted as an identification strategy to reduce selection bias. In this study, remittance includes both remittances received from within and outside Bangladesh. Remittance receipt equals 1 if a household receives remittances from within and/or outside of Bangladesh. Our results show that remittances increase expenditures on waste disposal by 28.77% to 32.74% among slum households in Bangladesh. Waste disposal expenditure is considered as an indicator of better waste disposal. Furthermore, we find that better waste disposal reduces total outpatient expenditures. A reduction in outpatient expenditure indicates that waste disposal results in better health conditions for slum dwellers. The findings of this study can be connected to Sustainable Development Goal 11, which targets sustainable cities and communities and suggests that remittances are a bottom-up financial mechanism for improving waste disposal at the micro level to improve health status.

Graphical abstract
Retrospective Study of Multimodality Imaging Features of Chondroblastoma
Authors: Karbhari Aashna , Vijan Antariksh , Janu Amit Kumar , Gulia Ashish , Kulkarni Suyash , Shetty Nitin , Gala Kunal , Panjwani Poonam
Published: July 2024

Purpose

To evaluate the multimodality imaging features of chondroblastoma.

Materials and Methods

Retrospective analysis of imaging features of 52 cases of histopathologically proven chondroblastoma from 2010 to 2022 was performed. Radiographs were evaluated for lesion site, location, morphology, margins, matrix mineralization, cortical breach, periosteal reaction, eccentricity, and subarticular extension. Appearance on T1, T2 weighted and post-contrast T1 was evaluated on MRI, with analysis of peritumoral edema and joint effusion.

Results

Mean patient age was 18 years (10–57 years) with male preponderance (M = 39; F = 13). 75% (n = 39) cases involved an unfused skeleton and 25% (n = 13) affected a mature skeleton. Appendicular skeleton was involved in 88.5% (n = 46) cases and axial skeleton was involved in 11.5% (n = 6) cases with all cases involving epiphysis/epiphyseal equivalent. Radiographically, all cases were well-defined geographic osteolytic lesions with a narrow zone of transition, thin sclerotic rim and lobulated [56% (n = 29)] or smooth [44% (n = 23)] margins. Matrix calcification appreciable in 62% (n = 32) cases was ‘fluffy/smudgy’. Chondroblastoma appeared isointense (83%, n = 43) on T1 MRI with characteristically low signal and hyperintense foci within (67%, n = 35) on T2-weighted images and post-contrast enhancement [heterogeneous lobular (88%, n = 46) or septal pattern (12%, n = 6)] with all barring three lesions showing perilesional edema. None of the cases of chondroblastoma in our study developed metastasis till last follow-up (mean: 71 months).

Conclusion

Chondroblastoma has distinctive imaging appearance and is often unlike majority other cartilaginous benign lesions due to characteristic low T2 signal on MRI and associated exuberant perilesional edema.
Education for sustainable development: comparative analysis and prospects at universities in Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan
Authors: Sergey Bespalyy , Alfiya Akhrorova , Gulmira Alnazarova , Ainura Adieva , Alexandr Petrenko
Published: July 2024

The study, conducted in higher education institutions in Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan, highlights ongoing changes in approaches to education for sustainable development (ESD) in Central Asian countries. This region, exposed to various challenges such as climate change and environmental problems, has recognized the importance and role of education in achieving sustainable development. The study aims to identify the current level of awareness of students and teachers about the Sustainable Development Goals, as well as to understand how universities in the region are integrating ESD principles into their educational programs.

The results show that students generally have limited knowledge about the global sustainable development goals, while teachers have a higher level of awareness. Most students receive information about the sustainable development goals (SDGs) through social media and the Internet, while it is less reflected in the curriculum. However, there is a trend towards changing this situation, in particular in Tajikistan, where curricula are becoming more focused on environmental education.

Finally, recommendations for universities include integrating ESD principles into teacher development, developing teaching methods and materials, and strengthening collaboration at the regional and international levels to promote sustainable development goals.