bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biosynthesized Ag-SiO2 hybrid nano fluid with cross-linker for augmentation of multifunctional and mechanical properties of cotton fabric
Authors: Aktek Mst. Tania , Ali Mohammad
Published: August 2024

In this research, low cost, eco-friendly hybrid nano particles from agro waste are synthesized. As agro waste, the lemon peel zest is utilized for synthesis of Ag nps and rice husk for SiO2 nps. From these two nano particles, two hybrid nano fluids named Ag-SiO2 and Ag-SiO2-bis are synthesized and incorporated on cotton woven fabric by mechanical thermo fixation method to produce mechanically strong and functional cotton fabric. The produced Ag nps are characterized by UV-visible spectroscopy, Field Emission Electron Microscopy (FESEM) and Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDX), and found the average size as around 30nm with spherical shape. Again, SiO2 nps are characterized by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), FESEM and EDX and obtained results reveal amorphous, spherical shape with the average particle size as around 50nm. The surface morphology of treated fabric is assessed by SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy) and EDX. The antibacterial properties, UV protection ability, dye ability, moisture management property, mechanical properties are assessed and found better than that of untreated fabric. However, due to use of small amount of the above nps in preparation of hybrid nano fluid, UV-protection ability is found not up to the mark. For more durable antibacterial cotton fabric, N,N′ -methylene bis-acrylamide is used as a crosslinking agent which has significant positive contribution to mechanical properties.
Combating HIV/AIDS : Integrating Viral Nature, Technological Advances, and Community Dynamics
Authors: Yousuf Ronika , Zehra Angeleen
Published: August 2024

Acquired Immunodeficiency syndrome remains a global health challenge, with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) leading to compromised immune systems and increased susceptibility to opportunistic infections and cancers. Despite advances in treatment and prevention, gaps in knowledge and awareness persist, influencing the disease’s impact on communities. This study conducts a comprehensive literature review and surveys to assess the current understanding of HIV transmission, prevention, and treatment. It also evaluates community awareness levels through qualitative interviews and questionnaires distributed across diverse demographic groups. The review identifies a significant disparity in the awareness of HIV transmission pathways and preventive measures. It also highlights a lack of access to treatment in certain populations. Community responses indicate varying degrees of knowledge, with misconceptions contributing to stigma and discrimination against individuals living with the virus. The findings suggest that enhancing community awareness is crucial for effective prevention and support. Education programs tailored to local contexts and inclusive health policies can bridge knowledge gaps, reduce stigma, and improve health outcomes.
Chronic circadian disruption alters cardiac function and glucose regulation in mice
Authors: Gearey Jenna E J , Wang Melinda , Antle Michael C
Published: August 2024

Cardiometabolic disease is a leading causes of death worldwide. One factor that may contribute to the risk, onset, and severity of symptoms is disrupted circadian rhythms. Our study uses two strains of mice to further elucidate this relationship: healthy controls, and a mouse model of insulin resistance with short freerunning periods (~ 22.75hrs) and enlarged hearts, raised in either a 24-hour or 22.75-hour LD cycle. Through glucose and insulin tolerance tests, routine electrocardiograms from 1–4 months old, and histology, we reveal worse cardiometabolic health outcomes for mice gestated and housed in a mismatched LD cycle compared to those in an LD cycle that matches their endogenous rhythm. This was characterized by heightened blood glucose levels following a glucose or insulin bolus, altered electrophysiological parameters of the cardiac waveform, and increased cardiomyocyte size. The present study demonstrates that circadian disruption on its own can lead to adverse health outcomes. Circadian disruption due to work/social schedules or circadian-related disorders in people is often confounded with unhealthy lifestyles. The present study demonstrates that circadian disruption on its own can lead to adverse health states.
Characteristics of Physical Activity and Neuromuscular Changes in Middle-aged and Young Men in Republic of Korea
Authors: Kim ByungKwan , Jeong Hwan-Jong , Son Jae-Heon , Lee Sang-Hyun , Park Jun-Sik , Kim Ki-Hong
Published: August 2024

Changes in muscle strength with aging appear before old age and are reported to precede a decrease in muscle mass. However, few studies have examined muscle function and Neuromuscular junctions (NMJ) differences in middle-aged and young populations. The purpose of this study was to compare the differences in physical activity, body composition, isokinetic muscle strength and NMJ according to the life cycle of the population aged 20–59 and to examine the correlation according to age. Physical activity (IPAQ), body composition (BIA), knee extension strength (PT, BW/PT, RTD180, AT), Neuromuscular junctions (CAF, NfL) were examined in young (age = 29.38 ± 3.38 years), middle-aged (50.54 ± 4.772 years) men. Middle-aged men showed lower physical activity (1.54 ± 0.66 and 2.15 ± 0.55), PT (170.55 ± 35.41Nm and 224.72 ± 41.02Nm), BW/PT (234.93 ± 50.05% and 295.48 ± 31.44), and RTD180 (94.86 ± 29.72Nm and 153.60 ± 33.02Nm) values and significantly higher NfL(11.29 ± 5.50pg/mL and 6.44pg/mL) than younger men. All of the above variables were significantly correlated with age. Simple regression analysis between strength and NMJ showed that PT, BW/PT, and RTD180 were negatively correlated with NfL. Our results suggest that changes in physical activity quality, isokinetic strength, and neuromuscular junction are clear from young to middle-aged men, suggesting that intervention techniques should be proposed to maintain muscle function before aging is evident.
Critical Thinking and Clinical Skills by Problem-Based Learning Educational Methods: An Umbrella Systematic Review
Authors: Ge Wei-Li , Zhu Xia-Yin , Lin Jiang-Bo , Jiang Jian-Jun , Li Tao , Lu Yi-Fei , Mi Ya-Fei , Tung Tao-Hsin
Published: August 2024

Introduction: Problem-based learning (PBL), based on self-directed learning, is an instructional strategy that shifts the approach from the instructor to the student (student-centered). Notwithstanding its adoption in undergraduate and graduate medical education, its usefulness remains a topic of debate. This study aims to review current worldwide data on the efficacy and utility of critical thinking and clinical skills using problem-based learning educational methods in undergraduate medical teaching programs.
Methods: The search was conducted in June 2024 in PubMed, Cochrane, Embase, and Web of Science and included all publications regardless of the publication date, study design, or country of origin.
Results: Thirteen meta-analyses and systematic reviews were compiled through database screening. The results showed that PBL effectively enhanced students' clinical skills and critical thinking abilities; nevertheless, further evidence is needed to confirm this finding.
Discussion: PBL is a successful and an effective medical education system. Medical students can learn skills and acquire competencies useful for their medical professionalism through PBL in addition to their existing knowledge.
Ant Foraging: Optimizing Self-Organization as a Solution to a Travelling Salesman Problem.
Authors: Paago Natasha , Zheng Wilson , Nonacs Peter
Published: August 2024

Foraging ant colonies often face the challenge that food items may appear unpredictably somewhere within their territory. This is analogous to Travelling Salesman/Salesperson problems (TSP), wherein solutions seek the least costly and most effective route to visit multiple possibly-rewarding sites. However for ants, TSP solutions are likely also constrained by cognitive limitations. Rather than envisioning entire routes, ants more likely determine their paths by individual-level responses to immediate stimuli, such as presence of other foragers or avoiding revisiting an already explored path. Thus, simple individual-level movement rules could self-organize complex group-level search patterns. Here we derive solutions through agent-based models that optimize net foraging gain for groups of eight agents with ant-like cognitive abilities in searching three different spatial networks of sites. We then compare the patterns from the evolutionary simulations to observed foraging in Argentine ants (Linepithema humile) in identical spatial networks. The simulations and ant data show that foraging patterns are sensitive to both network arrangement and predictability in food appearance. The modeling results are consistent in multiple ways with observed ant behavior, particularly in how network arrangements affect foraging effort, food encounters, and general searching distributions. In some distributions, however, ants are more successful at finding food than the simulated agents. This may reflect a greater premium on encountering food in ants versus in simulations increasing exploitation rate of found food. Overall, the results are encouraging that evolutionary optimization models incorporating relevant ant biology can successfully predict the expression of complex group-level behavior.
A Taxonomy of Virtual Reality Sports Applications
Authors: Elsholz Sophia , Pham Kevin , Zarnekow Rüdiger
Published: August 2024

Although physical fitness is one of the most important factors regarding an individual’s health, many people perceive a lack of motivation. One promising solution is the usage of Virtual Reality (VR) sports applications. Studies showed that VR sport offers several advantages, ranging from a high enjoyment, the improvement of skill quality and motivation, to effectiveness in rehabilitation. The goal of this study is to obtain an overview of research VR sport applications through a systematic literature review and build a taxonomy based on this body of knowledge through an analysis of applications on the market. A comparison of both theory and practice reveals that while research applications often include specific sports movements for a well-defined target group, most market applications are designed for a wider audience and emphasize gamification. Further, market applications often include social experiences and competition that can motivate users significantly. Additionally, we identified whether current VR sports applications align with established learning theories and if their design can thereby facilitate sport skill learning. Our taxonomy offers valuable insights for both researchers and practitioners in the dynamic landscape of VR sports through describing trends and deriving gaps for future research.
The Effects of Negative News Exposure on Risk and Ambiguity Aversion
Authors: Campos Luis S. Garcia , Lempert Karolina M.
Published: August 2024

Uncertain decisions can be risky (with known probabilities) or ambiguous (with unknown probabilities). Previous studies have found that negative affect can increase risk and ambiguity aversion, but it is unknown if these effects generalize to more realistic negative stimuli. In real life, negative affect is frequently induced by exposure to news reports. Here, in two pre-registered studies, we examined how watching a negative news video influenced risk and ambiguity aversion. Study 1 was conducted online in a sample of university students (n = 84), whereas Study 2 was done by a sample on Prolific (n = 229). Participants were randomly assigned to one of two groups. The negative news group viewed a news video about a car crash, while the control group watched a news video about train schedules. Then, all participants did a task in which, on each trial, they chose between a certain $5 reward or a gamble option. Half the gambles were risky (e.g., 50% chance of $10; 50% chance of $0), and half were ambiguous, so that the probabilities of the outcomes were not fully known. Although participants who watched negative news reported a significant increase in negative affect, they did not differ from the neutral news group in their risk or ambiguity preferences. These findings, when considered alongside other similar null findings in the literature, suggest that incidental negative affect might have no effect on decisions under uncertainty, unless the affect is misattributed to the choice itself.
Joint Trajectories of Peer Aggression and Peer Victimization in Chinese Early Adolescents: Relations to Internalization Problems and Suicidal Ideation
Authors: Dang Kaili , Zou Fan , Zheng Xueting , Gong Xue , Zhou Jianhua
Published: August 2024

This study examined heterogeneous co-developmental trajectories of physical and relational aggression and victimization during early adolescence, as well as the relations between these identifiably distinct trajectories and adolescent internalizing problems and suicidal ideation. Using an accelerated longitudinal design, 4731 Chinese early adolescents (44.9% girls; Mage = 10.91 years, SD = 0.72) in two cohorts (grades 4 and 5) were included, and four measures were completed over a 2-year period. Parallel process latent category growth models revealed four distinct groups: low aggression-high victimization (9.6%); High drop relational aggression and victimization but recovering physical aggression (5.0%); low aggression-low victimization (79.9%); stabilizing aggression-victimization (5.5%); all of which were associated with indicators of children's internalization problems and suicidal ideation. Adolescents with low aggression-high victimization and stabilizing aggression-victimization were more likely to experience more internalizing problems and suicidal ideation. Understanding these dynamics can aid in designing targeted interventions to address both relational and physical aggression and victimization, thereby promoting healthier social interactions and mental well-being among adolescents.
Research on Concrete Crack Detection based on Fourier Image Enhancement and Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Sun Xiaoli , Yang Jun , Huang Wei , Teng Shuai
Published: August 2024

This paper proposes a novel crack detection method for concrete structures based on Fourier image enhancement and convolutional neural network (CNN). Cracking is regarded as an important indication for structure aging and durability decline, so the detection of cracks becomes more and more important. The CNN is used to detect the existence of cracks automatically. The original crack images may be disturbed by many factors, such as image blur, distortion and so on. In order to improve crack detection accuracy, it is necessary to pre-process the original images. This paper introduces a frequency-domain enhancement algorithm based on the Fourier transform, which is effective for crack detection from low-quality crack images (such as images with blurs and distortion). The results show that the testing accuracy of the crack images after Fourier enhancement reaches 100%. In this paper, a control experiment is designed to illustrate the effectiveness of this method, in which the crack images are not pre-processed and the testing accuracy is only 87.5%, and when the crack image is processed by median filter, and the testing accuracy is only 91.67%. The experimental results show that Fourier enhanced crack images can effectively improve the accuracy of crack detection and make the CNN training faster.
Blastocystis occurrence and subtype diversity in European wild boar (Sus scrofa) from the Iberian Peninsula
Authors: Köster Pamela C. , Figueiredo Ana M. , Maloney Jenny G. , Dashti Alejandro , Bailo Begoña , Torres Rita T. , Fonseca Carlos , Mysterud Atle , Habela Miguel Á. , Rivero-Juarez Antonio , Vicente Joaquín , Serrano Emmanuel , Arnal Maria C. , de Luco Daniel Fernández , Armenteros José A. , Balseiro Ana , Cardona Guillermo A. , Carvalho João , Hipólito Dário , Fernandes Joana , Palmeira Josman D. , Calero-Bernal Rafael , González-Barrio David , Santin Monica , Carmena David
Published: August 2024

The ongoing increase of wild boar populations across Europe has fostered human-wildlife conflicts, including the transmission of emerging pathogens with zoonotic importance. Blastocystis is a ubiquitous, faecal-oral transmitted protist that can cause gastrointestinal illnesses and is observed in humans and animals worldwide. The role of wildlife in the epidemiology of Blastocystis is insufficiently understood. Thus, we have investigated the occurrence and subtype diversity of Blastocystis in free-ranging wild boars from the Iberian Peninsula using conventional PCR and next-generation amplicon sequencing of a fragment of the ssu RNA gene. A total of 459 wild boar faecal samples were collected across Spain (n = 360) and Portugal (n = 99) between 2014 and 2021. Blastocystis was present in 15.3% (70/459; 95% CI: 12.1–18.9) of the wild boars analysed, and its occurrence was significantly higher in Portugal (34.3%, 34/99; 95% CI: 25.1–44.6) than in Spain (10.0%, 36/360; 95% CI: 7.1–13.6). Seven Blastocystis subtypes (ST5, ST10b, ST13–15, ST24b, and ST43) were detected among the surveyed wild boar populations, with greater variability detected in Portuguese samples. ST5 was identified in all Blastocystis-positive animals, whereas 11.4% of them harboured ST mixed infections. Our results demonstrate that Blastocystis ST5 is particularly adapted to infect wild boars. The additional finding of zoonotic STs reinforces the role of wild boars as spreaders of zoonotic infections with a public health significance.
FlavorMiner: A Machine Learning Platform for Extracting Molecular Flavor Profiles from Structural Data
Authors: Herrera-Rocha Fabio , Fernández-Niño Miguel , Duitama Jorge , Cala Mónica P. , Chica María José , Wessjohann Ludger A. , Davari Mehdi D. , Barrios Andres Fernando González
Published: August 2024

Flavor is the main factor driving consumers acceptance of food products. However, tracking the biochemistry of flavor is a formidable challenge due to the complexity of food composition. Current methodologies for linking individual molecules to flavor in foods and beverages are expensive and time-consuming. Predictive models based on machine learning (ML) are emerging as an alternative to speed up this process. Nonetheless, the optimal approach to predict flavor features of molecules remains elusive. In this work we present FlavorMiner, an ML-based multilabel flavor predictor. FlavorMiner seamlessly integrates different combinations of algorithms and mathematical representations, augmented with class balance strategies to address the inherent class of the input dataset. Notably, Random Forest and K-Nearest Neighbors combined with Extended Connectivity Fingerprint and RDKit molecular descriptors consistently outperform other combinations in most cases. Resampling strategies surpass weight balance methods in mitigating bias associated with class imbalance. FlavorMiner exhibits remarkable accuracy, with an average ROC AUC score of 0.88. This algorithm was used to analyze cocoa metabolomics data, unveiling its profound potential to help extract valuable insights from intricate food metabolomics data. FlavorMiner can be used for flavor mining in any food product, drawing from a diverse training dataset that spans over 934 distinct food products.
Examining the interplay between air pollution, vegetation greenness, and stroke prevalence in East Africa: An ecological perspective
Authors: Baharane Valérien , Shatalov Andrey Borisovich , Igwe Emmanuel
Published: August 2024

This study examines the impact of PM2.5, SO2, O3, CO, and surface greenness on stroke-related mortality rates in East Africa. Results showed a positive correlation between PM2.5 and SO2, and a negative association between Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI) and stroke fatality prevalence. The linear regression model showed that the increase of 1 index in EVI could lead to the reduction of stroke-related deaths by 845.57 ± 295.96 deaths per 100,000 persons. Also, a 1 µg/m3 increase of PM2.5 and SO2 concentrations predicted a corresponding increase of stroke-related death by 3.06 ± 1.25 and 139.28 ± 64.33 deaths per 100,000 persons, respectively. Furthermore, the analysis of the influence of these environmental variables on the prevalence of mortality attributable to stroke by age group showed its rise with age, both in intensity and statistical significance. For instance, a rise of 1 unit in EVI predicted the reduction of the stroke-related death rate by 9.18 ± 6.45 and 2133.93 ± 701.07 deaths per 100,000 persons in the age groups of 20–29 and 70–79 years old, respectively. A rise in 1 µg/m3 of PM2.5 and SO2 is expected to trigger the mortality incident rise from 0.05 ± 0.03 to 7.77 ± 3.01 and 4.28 ± 1.40 to 426.21 ± 152.38 deaths per 100,000 persons in respective age groups of 20–29 and 70–79 years. The exposure to CO and O3 did not demonstrate a significant effect on the stroke-related death rate in the region for the period of the study.
Crosstalk between abscisic acid (ABA) and brassinosteroid (BR) signaling pathways is revealed by competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network in Brassica napus
Authors: Chen Yaqian , Wu Jinfeng , Ma Changrui , Zeng Yuqing , Zhang Dawei , Zhou Dinggang , Zhang Jihong , Liu Lili , Li Mei , Yan Mingli
Published: August 2024

The antagonistic and synergistic effects between phytohormone abscisic acid (ABA) and brassinosteroid (BR) have been reported in some plants. However, the underlying mechanisms of action in rapeseed have not well characterized. To understand the crosstalk between ABA and BR signaling transduction pathways, we performed the whole transcriptome which was including mRNA-seq, lncRNA-seq and miRNA-seq in rapeseed. Then we further explored differentially expressed lncRNA (DE lncRNA) and differentially expressed miRNA (DE miRNA) in mock/ABA-treated and mock/BR-treated combinations. To explore the functions of lncRNAs and miRNAs, we predicted the target genes of DE lncRNA and DE miRNA. We found that trans regulation was the main way in which lncRNAs regulated gene expression. Compared with BR treatment, ABA treatment could regulate a wide range of gene expression at the lncRNA level. The gene ontology (GO) enrichment analyses suggested that the water deprivation pathway and auxin related pathways were the most important pathways for non-coding RNA (ncRNA) to regulate gene expression during early seedling development under ABA or BR treatment, respectively. Interestingly, we found that the ABA and BR responsive pathways were not completely independent. Through competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network analyses, we uncovered that there was a local regulatory network co-expressed under ABA and BR signals. Similarly, the four transcription factors (TF) (MYB, ERF, NAC and bZIP) families associated with plant growth and stress responses also shared similarities both under ABA and BR treatment. Our findings provided insights into the molecular mechanism of phytohormone balance and environmental adaptation at the early seedling development stage in rapeseed.
Spatial evolution characteristics and influencing factors of sports resources: evidence from Chinese national sports industry bases
Authors: Zhong Xuesi , Wang Jingling , Zhong Zejun
Published: August 2024

The sports industry plays an important role in promoting regional economic construction, citizens' health and quality of life, and has good development resilience and development prospects. However, the existing sports industry research has the shortcoming of paying insufficient attention to the characteristics of the spatial evolution of sports resources and the influencing factors. This paper applies the nearest neighbor index, kernel density analysis, standard deviation ellipse analysis, GeoDetector and other methods to study the spatial evolution characteristics of national sports industry bases in Chinese urban agglomerations and their influencing mechanisms from the perspectives of distribution type, distribution density and distribution orientation. The results show that, firstly, at the early stage of sports resources development in Chinese urban agglomerations, the national sports industry bases were discretely and randomly distributed; later on, as the accumulation of resources became more and more abundant, the tendency of agglomeration of the national sports industry bases began to be emphasized. Secondly, the sports resources of Chinese urban agglomerations as a whole show a tendency from a scattered structure to a cluster structure, and the spatial distribution is extremely uneven. Thirdly, the spatial center of gravity of the national sports industry bases shows the dynamic migration development trend of "northwest-northeast-southwest", and the development gap between east and west, south and north is gradually narrowing. Fourthly, the economic base, potential market and policy environment play an important role in interacting with other factors and then empowering the cultivation of sports resources, but there is no empirical evidence to confirm the specific conduction path of this empowering effect.
Bilateral purtscher-like retinopathy associated with DRESS syndrome: a case report
Authors: Yuan Langxuan , Li Yuchen , Zhang Hanze , Hou Yucen , Kang Qianyan , Lei Jianqin
Published: August 2024

Background: To report a case of Bilateral Purtscher-like retinopathy associated with DRESS syndrome managed with ocular and systemic treatments.
Case presentation: A 29-year-old healthy female developed multi-organ (cutaneous, hematologic, renal and hepatic) disfunction and profound vision loss 1 month after Human papillomavirus vaccine injection. At the first presentation, her visual acuity was counting fingers in both eyes. Fundus exam showed remarkable cotton-wool spots, retinal hemorrhages and macular edema. She was diagnosed DRESS syndrome and Purtscher-like retinopathy and treated with intravitreal injection of ranibizumab, systemic steroids anticoagulants, and plasma exchange. The patient finally recovered from this life-threatening condition but left with permanent visual damage.
Conclusion: Purtscher-like retinopathy could be complicated by DRESS syndrome which is usually considered a type Ⅳ hypersensitivity reaction.
More convenience or more stress? The study of teachers’ work-related use of apps beyond work hours and job burnout
Authors: Li Yucen , Zhou Min
Published: August 2024

Background
This study exploring the impact of teachers' use of instant messaging software after work on job burnout, as well as whether this use influences job burnout through the mediating effect of work stress. Furthermore, the study examines whether teacher work values can moderate the relationship between the use of instant messaging software after work and work stress.
Methods
This study focuses on physical education teachers from elementary to high school levels in Sichuan of China as the study subjects, and stratified random sampling was used to conduct a questionnaire survey. A total of 1000 questionnaires were distributed, and 936 were collected. After screening the collected questionnaires, a total of 887 valid questionnaires were obtained.
Results
The result as following: (1) There is a positive relationship between teachers' use of instant messaging software after work and work stress. (2) Work stress plays a mediating role between the use of instant messaging software after work and job burnout. (3) Teacher work values positively moderate the relationship between the use of instant messaging software for official purposes after work and work stress. (4) Teacher work values positively moderate the mediating effect of work stress between the use of instant messaging software after work and job burnout.
Conclusions
At present, the causes of teacher job burnout are a topic worthy of attention in academic and practice. The results of this study can serve as a reference for future research on the use of instant messaging software after work, work stress, job burnout, and teacher work values. In addition, future studies can investigate other moderating or mediating variables that affect teacher job burnout.
Comparative Study of Electron Temperature and Ion Energy in Two Different Magnetic Nozzle Thruster Designs
Authors: Schaefer Clara Elisabeth , Schmidt Jens , Plettenberg Felix , Chan Yung-An , Grabe Martin , Martinez-Schramm Jan , Holste Kristof , Klar Peter
Published: August 2024

Conventional ion thruster technologies face challenges such as electrode and grid erosion and the need for additional neutralizer devices. In this article, we discuss two thruster concepts that achieve plasma acceleration by means of a magnetic nozzle, and thus avoid the need of a neutralizer device. The concept of a magnetic nozzle converting the thermal energy available in the electrons to ion kinetic energy is a well accepted model in the community. We discuss a thruster concept based on electrode-less electron cyclotron resonance plasma generation via a slot antenna design. The geometry of this thruster concept results in a converging-diverging character of the magnetic field topology along the plume direction. To this date it is not known in which way this electrode-less coupling of the microwave influences the electron dynamics and thus the ion energy. To understand the correlation between ion energy and electron temperature of this thruster system, it is compared with a well-known thruster prototype operating on similar principles, however, realizing microwave coupling in a different way. Both thruster designs operate within comparable power, frequency, and volume flow ranges. Maximum ion energy is measured for both thrusters using a retarding potential analyzer under the same surrounding conditions. Additionally, the electron temperature is measured with a Langmuir probe for various operation points, such as variable input power, volume flow, set frequency, and argon and xenon as propellant.
Effectiveness of air purifier in reducing the viral load in atmospheric air of room of COVID-19 patients
Authors: Irungbam Monica , Shrivastava Ritika , Prasad Jitender , Mudgal Ashish , Dubey Abhishek , Singh Vijay Kumar , Sonkar Subash Chandra , Anubhuti anubhuti , Malhotra Vikas , Kumar Suresh , Saxena Sonal , Manchanda Vikas , Koner Bidhan Chandra , Goswami. Binita
Published: August 2024

This study evaluates the effectiveness of air purifiers in reducing the viral load of SARS-CoV-2 in the atmospheric air of rooms housing COVID-19 patients. Air samples were collected using an air sampler before and after the implementation of air purifiers equipped with high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters. Additionally, swab samples were collected from various filters within the air purifiers to assess viral RNA presence. The results demonstrate the detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in particulate matter samples collected before air purification, indicating viral presence in the atmospheric air. Moreover, viral load was inversely correlated with the flow rate of the air sampler, with higher flow rates associated with increased viral load. Swab samples from air purifier filters revealed positive RT-PCR results for both the E-gene and RdRp gene of SARS-CoV-2, highlighting viral retention within the filtration system. Notably, the photo-catalyst oxidation filter demonstrated a reduction in viral RNA presence over time. Following air purification, SARS-CoV-2 RNA was undetectable in samples collected from the PVDF membrane filter at lower flow rates, while positive results were obtained at higher flow rates. These findings underscore the potential of air purifiers in reducing viral load and mitigating airborne transmission within healthcare settings. Further research is warranted to optimize air purification strategies and assess long-term efficacy in controlling viral dissemination.
Hybrid E-Glass/Basalt (H-BE) Composites Confinement for Reinforced Concrete Square Columns and Development of Stress-Strain Models
Authors: Thansirichaisree Phromphat , Mohamad Hisham , Ejaz Ali , Saingam Panumas , Hussain Qudeer
Published: August 2024

This study performs an experimental and analytical framework to explore the compressive response of concrete confined with hybridized chopped glass and Basalt (H-BE) layers. The research variables comprised the strength of unconfined concrete and the quantity of H-BE layers. Results showed significant improvements in ultimate strength, ultimate strain, and ductility with H-BE confinement, up to 161% and 269% enhancement, respectively. Unconfined concrete strength inversely affected the efficiency of confinement, while the magnitude of H-BE layers had a positive influence. The maximum enhancement in ultimate strain for low, medium, and high unconfined strength types was 219%, 146%, and 111%, respectively. An analogous trend in ultimate strength was noted, demonstrating 161%, 83%, and 33% increase for low, medium, and high unconfined strength, respectively. The elastic modulus increased with the magnitude of H-BE confinement and unconfined concrete strength. The stress vs. strain response of H-BE-strengthened concrete was characterized by an initial parabolic part, which was succeeded by a linear branch with a gentler slope. Based on regression analysis, specific expressions were presented for different key points on the curve, and their efficiency was evaluated with the coefficient of determination (𝑅2) valuesexceeding 0.90. Moreover, a methodology was presented to precisely predict the complete stress vs. strain response of concrete under H-BE confinement based on the proposed expressions. The comparison between predicted and experimental curves demonstrated close agreement, validating the proposed approach.
Labour productivity disparities in European regions: the impact of agglomeration effects
Authors: Gómez-Tello Alicia , Murgui-García María-José , Sanchis-Llopis María-Teresa
Published: August 2024

Disparities in regional productivity in Europe have increased since 2000, and the rapid progress of the richest regions is considered to be one of the main forces behind this change. In this paper we estimate a production function, taking into account spatial dependence where labour productivity depends on regional capital intensity, knowledge-related variables (human capital and patent intensity) and the presence of agglomeration economies. The data covers a set of 121 NUTS-2 regions belonging to nine European countries over the period 2000–2014. Our econometric analysis throws up new and robust evidence pointing to the positive total impact of agglomeration on regional levels of labour productivity. We find that the positive externalities deriving from agglomeration are significant only in the region itself (direct impact), while the physical and human capital exhibit direct positive effects that are partially counterbalanced by the presence of negative spatial spillovers. But, while physical capital per worker preserves a significant positive total effect, the human capital does not. Finally, we find that knowledge generation impacts directly in local labour productively and spread out significantly to other regions. These results are used to propose a more balanced use of regional policies to propel territorial resources in order to compensate the dominance of agglomeration economies.
JEL classification: R10; R11; R12.
Destabilisation of Alzheimer’s Amyloid-β Protofibrils by Baicalein: Mechanistic Insights from All-atom Molecular Dynamics Simulations
Authors: Choudhury Sadika , Dasmahapatra Ashok Kumar
Published: August 2024

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia and the fifth leading cause of death globally. Aggregation and deposition of neurotoxic Aβ fibrils in the neural tissues of the brain is a key hallmark in AD pathogenesis. Destabilisation studies of the amyloid-peptide by various natural molecules are highly relevant due to their neuroprotective and therapeutic potential for AD. We performed molecular dynamics (MD) simulation to investigate the destabilisation mechanism of amyloidogenic protofilament intermediate by Baicalein (BCL), a naturally occurring flavonoid. We found that the BCL molecule formed strong hydrophobic contacts with non-polar residues, specifically F19, A21, V24, and I32 of Chain A and B of the pentameric protofibril. Upon binding, it competed with the native hydrophobic contacts of the Aβ protein. BCL loosened the tight packing of the hydrophobic core by disrupting the hydrogen bonds and the prominent D23-K28 inter-chain salt bridges of the protofibril. The decrease in the structural stability of Aβ protofibrils was confirmed by the increased RMSD, radius of gyration, solvent accessible surface area (SASA), and reduced β-sheet content. PCA indicated that the presence of the BCL molecule intensified protofibril motions, particularly affecting residues in Chain A and B regions. Our findings propose that BCL would be a potent destabiliser of Aβ protofilament, and may be considered as a therapeutic agent in treating AD.
Evidential Deep Learning for Interatomic Potentials
Authors: Su Mao , Xu Han , Cui Taoyong , Tang Chenyu , Zhou Dongzhan , Li Yuqiang , Gao Xiang , Gong Xin-Gao , Ouyang Wanli , Zhang Shufei
Published: August 2024

Machine learning interatomic potentials (MLIPs) have been widely used to facilitate large scale molecular simulations with ab initio level accuracy. However, MLIP-based molecular simulations frequently encounter the issue of collapse due to decreased prediction accuracy for out-of-distribution (OOD) data. To mitigate this issue, it is crucial to enrich the training set with active learning, where uncertainty estimation serves as an effective method for identifying and collecting OOD data. Therefore, a feasible method for uncertainty estimation in MLIPs is desired. The existing methods either require expensive computations or compromise prediction accuracy. In this work, we introduce evidential deep learning for interatomic potentials (eIP) with a physics-inspired design. Our experiments demonstrate that eIP consistently generates reliable uncertainties without incurring notable additional computational costs, while the prediction accuracy remains unchanged. Furthermore, we present an eIP-based active learning workflow, where eIP is used not only to estimate the uncertainty of molecular data but also to perform uncertainty-driven dynamics simulations. Our findings show that eIP enables efficient sampling for a more diverse dataset, thereby advancing the feasibility of MLIP-based molecular simulations.
Simultaneous accelerated stress testing of the proton exchange membrane, catalyst layer, and gas diffusion layer in polymer electrolyte fuel cells
Authors: Yoshimune Wataru , Kato Akihiko , Hayakawa Tetsuichiro , Yamaguchi Satoshi , Kato Satoru
Published: August 2024

The durability of polymer electrolyte fuel cells (PEFCs) in fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) is important for the shift from passenger cars to heavy-duty vehicles. The components of a PEFC, namely the proton exchange membrane (PEM), catalyst layer (CL), and gas diffusion layer (GDL), contribute to the degradation of the fuel cell performance. These degradation studies were conducted independently and focused on PEMs and CLs. The degraded fuel cell stack in FCEVs is completely replaced. Therefore, it is necessary to counteract rapid material degradation in PEFCs. In this paper, we propose a method for simultaneously evaluating the degradation rates of these components by combining electrochemical characterization with operando synchrotron X-ray radiography. The open-circuit voltage, electrochemically active surface area, and water saturation were used as the degradation indicators for the PEMs, CLs, and GDLs, respectively. The results of two accelerated stress tests (loading and start-stop cycles) showed that the increase in water saturation owing to the loss of hydrophobicity due to carbon corrosion in the cathode GDL occurred on the same time scale as the degradation in the PEM and cathode CL. This suggests that more efforts should be devoted to studies on the durability of GDLs for heavy-duty applications.
Title: Qualitative Assessment of a Novel Results-Based Partnership between National Wastewater Surveillance Centers of Excellence and Utility Companies, Houston (Texas), Colorado, Wisconsin, and California, 2023.
Authors: Turner Hannah , Horter Libby , Welton Michael , Martinez Cristina , Soelaeman Rieza , Tatti Kathleen , Louis Souci , Santibanez Scott , Kirby Amy , Fehernbach Nicole , Person John , Valencia Diana
Published: August 2024

Background
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) initiated the National Wastewater Surveillance System (NWSS) in September 2020. Four Centers of Excellence (COEs) were established between 2021–2023 in Houston (Texas), Colorado, Wisconsin, and California to guide wastewater surveillance efforts for public health. Our objective was to increase understanding of factors that facilitated implementation of wastewater surveillance from the perspectives and experiences shared by health department COEs and wastewater utility partners.
Methods
We used a purposive sampling strategy to select eight key respondents from the four NWSS COEs and four respective wastewater utility partners. We conducted in-depth interviews related to the implementation of wastewater surveillance and identified common experiences and key points from interview transcription files. Insights on WWS implementation from COEs and wastewater utility partners were distilled from the responses into lessons learned.
Results
Three primary themes emerged after we analyzed the interview responses: perceived community benefits from wastewater surveillance, collaboration and trust building among partners that helped program advancement, and sustainability strategies and considerations.
Conclusion
This analysis has highlighted the importance of partnerships and collaborations.
Complete resolution of acute abamectin toxicity; a deep dive into the pathophysiology leading to appropriate management: A case report
Authors: Sadiq Rizwan , Anjum Muhammad Mehwar , Mian Muhammad Umar , Rizwan Muhammad , Butt Aqsa Aamir
Published: August 2024

Abamectin toxicity in humans is an uncommon but potentially fatal cause of pesticide poisoning. In this case report, a 14-year-old boy drank almost 50 ml of 1.8% Abamectin pesticide spray. Based on the history given by his brother, the patient initially got irritable with a strong smell of poison and froth coming out of his mouth. At the time of presentation in the Emergency Department (ED), the patient was vomiting and then gradually developed altered mental status with hypotension, tachycardia, hyperaemic conjunctiva, and dermal erythema. He was treated symptomatically with antihistamines, steroids, fluids, and vaso-active agents. His vitals stabilised within 24 hours of the intake and after 3 days of hospital stay including 2 days of observation, he was discharged in good condition with complete recovery. Although abamectin intoxication has a higher threshold for toxicity in humans, there are still an increasing number of cases of it. Consumption of substantial amounts can still prove to be fatal. There is a lack of literature and research on its mechanism of toxicity, pathophysiology, or management guidelines. Yet cases like this are managed based on supportive principles with complete recovery and no sequelae.
Non-muscle Myosin Ii Inhibition at the Site of Axon Injury Increases Axon Regeneration
Authors: Woolf Clifford , Heo Keunjung , Ho Tammy , Zeng Xiangsunze , Turnes Bruna , Arab Maryam , Jayakar Selwyn , Chen Kuchuan , Kimourtzis Georgios , Condro Michael , Fazzari Elisa , Song Xuan , Hees J. Tabitha , Xu Zhuqiu , Chen Xirui , Barrett Lee , Perrault Laura , Pandey Roshan , Zhang Kathleen , Bhaduri Aparna , He Zhigang , Kornblum Harley , Hubbs Jed
Published: August 2024

Motor axon regeneration following peripheral nerve injury is critical for motor recovery but therapeutic interventions enhancing this are not available. We conducted a phenotypic screen on human motor neurons and identified blebbistatin, a non-muscle myosin II inhibitor, as the most effective neurite outgrowth promotor. Despite its efficacy in vitro, its poor bioavailability limits in vivo application. We, therefore, utilized a blebbistatin analog, NMIIi2, to explore its therapeutic potential for promoting axon regeneration. Local NMIIi2 application directly to injured axons enhanced regeneration in human and mouse motor neurons in vitro. Furthermore, following a sciatic nerve crush injury in mice, local NMIIi2 administration to the axonal injury site facilitated motor axon outgrowth, muscle reinnervation, and functional recovery. NMIIi2 also promoted axon regeneration in sensory, cortical, and retinal ganglion neurons. These findings highlight the therapeutic potential of topical NMII inhibition for treating axon damage.
Menstrual Blood Biomarkers for the Noninvasive Diagnosis of Endometriosis: A Review
Authors: Amanda Clara Riski , Hestiantoro Andon , Asmarinah
Published: August 2024

Diagnosis of endometriosis remains challenging, as the diagnostic delay is still encountered. This phenomenon is in accordance with the reported cases, in which the definitive diagnosis is approximately issued by 7—12 years delayed onset of symptoms. Many findings have reported several putative biomarkers from various resources, but no single biomarker displayed enough accuracy to be used outside the research setting. As the primary source of retrograde menstruation, identifying the constituents of menstrual blood may provide critical information on the pathogenicity and dysregulation occurring in the endometrium milieu. Indeed, the recent findings on menstrual biomarkers have demonstrated significant progress in the quest for new alternative sources to diagnose endometriosis. Further research with a combination of different approaches and integrated panel biomarkers is needed to bring the menstrual blood biomarkers step forward to clinical application. Here, we reviewed the menstrual biomarkers that have been reported to date, unlocking the potential utility of menstrual blood to develop an early, noninvasive diagnosis of endometriosis.
Investigating experiences of stigma and its impact on substance use recovery among residents of recovery residences in the United States: A scoping review protocol. BSGH 020
Authors: Ba’are Gamji Rabiu Ba’are , Hogarty Sahil , Shamrock Osman Wumpini , Russell Holly , Manchisi Kate , Smtih Van , Mericle Amy
Published: August 2024

The objective of this scoping review is to systematically review the literature on stigma experienced by residents in recovery residences and its impact on substance use recovery outcomes. The review will use the PRISMA-ScR framework to identify studies focused on stigma and recovery in recovery residences published in English within the United States since 2000, including qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods studies. Data will be extracted and analyzed thematically to identify gaps in the literature and inform future research and policy development. Preliminary findings suggest that stigma, including labeling and discrimination, significantly hinders recovery by promoting secrecy and withdrawal among residents. Proximity to recovery residences has been shown to reduce community stigma, indicating the potential for better integration and acceptance. This study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of stigma in recovery residences, its effects on substance use recovery, and recommendations for creating supportive recovery environments. The significance of this study lies in its potential to inform policy, practice, and research, highlighting the need for stigma reduction to improve recovery outcomes in recovery residences. By addressing gaps in the literature, the findings will contribute to developing more effective interventions and supportive environments for individuals recovering from substance use.