bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A non-destructive monitoring method for chlorophyll content of potato plants based on feature reconstruction algorithm
Authors: Hu Yaohua , Yang Huanbo , Shi Xiaoyi , Zhang Kaili , Guo Taifeng
Published: April 2024

Using UAV-based multispectral images for quickly and accurately monitoring chlorophyll content is critical for field management and yield estimation. However, the lower model accuracy and the poor robustness of the estimation models are still preventing the widespread application of UAV-based multispectral images. We carried out two field trials at various experimental sites to further enhance the precision and applicability of the model used to estimate the chlorophyll content of potato plants. Firstly, the texture features and vegetation indices derived from multispectral images were screened using the Pearson correlation coefficient method, and Normalized difference red edge (NDRE) performed the best over the two growth periods. Secondly, principal component analysis (PCA) was applied to recombine five bands of multispectral images, and third PCA results (PCA3) was selected to combined with NDRE according to the construction principle of NDRE, and the newly constructed parameter was named improved NDRE (INDRE). Finally, INDRE was used to establish a chlorophyll content estimation model of potato plants, and compared with some traditional parameters. The results demonstrated that the INDRE had the maximum accuracy (R2 = 0.7865, RMSE = 2.1378), and corresponding R2 increased by 0.1481 and RMSE decreased by 1.2994 than NDRE. Additionally, the model was validated using independent data from Experiment 2, and INDRE considerably increased estimation accuracy compared to other factors. In conclusions, the INDRE suggested in this study significantly enhances the accuracy and applicability of the chlorophyll content inversion model and can serve as an additional reference for fertilization management.
Spatial-Temporal Variations of Human Impact on Forest Ecological Functions in the Yellow River Basin from 2004 to 2018
Authors: Zhao Xiaodi , Wu Qingjun , Wang Guangyu , Sharma Ram P. , Feng Linyan , Bai Lang
Published: April 2024

Human activities (e.g., exploitation, utilization, and conservation) exert substantial impact on forest ecological functions (FEF). The human influence on FEF significantly varies across developmental stages, which are attributed to the temporal and spatial in nature. This study evaluates some notable FEF indices (FEFI) in the 448 counties within the Yellow River basin (YRB) using panel data from the Seventh to Ninth National Forest Inventory. Data analysis involves employing the residual trends, geographical and temporal weighted regression. Results indicate that, firstly, the overall forest ecological function in the YRB is moderate to inferior, with superior FEF in counties endowed with more natural forest resources. Afforestation demonstrates a short-term improvement, but its effectiveness diminishes over time. Secondly, the positive spatial correlation is stronger among counties, characterized by both high-high and low-low agglomeration effects. Scattered planting, simple stand structure, and concentrated harvesting of forests at the identical stand ages hinder the formation of complex and large-scale FEF agglomerations. Thirdly, significant spatial-temporal differences exist in the impact of human activities on FEF. In the upper reaches of the basin, increased vegetation coverage through agricultural and forestry production benefited FEF, however, some over-exploitation of forests and grasslands is observed there. In the middle reaches, the economic development, expanding population and the greening activities help to improve FEF effectively, but excessive water using in agricultural production brought more difficulties to FEF improvement. In the lower reaches of the basin, improved wastelands and forest protection positively influence FEF. This study recommends that county governments should prioritize forest management with multi-species and multi-layered complex forests. Each county should define its position in regional development and ecological protection, considering the potential impacts on neighboring regions. This holistic approach promotes more effective integrated regional management.
EVALUATION OF SPORTS INFRASTRUCTURE MANAGEMENT AFTER THE IMPLEMENTATION OF NATIONAL SPORTS WEEK (PON) XX PAPUA 2021
Authors: Hidayat Abdurrahim , Widyaningsih Heni , Wasan Aan
Published: April 2024

Abstract This study evaluates the management of sports infrastructure facilities in this case the venue after the implementation of PON XX Papua seen from 7 aspect (1) Leadership; (2) Facilities Strategic and Operational Planning; (3) Customer Focus; (4) Assessment and Information Analyses; (5) Development and Management Human Resources; (6) Process Management; (7) Performance Result, the research methodology used the Facility Management Evaluation Program model. The population and samples in this study are officials or management staff as well as beneficiaries such as athletes and the community of ex-PON infrastructure facilities with purposive sampling techniques. Data collection techniques in this study by conducting interviews, observations and documentation studies. The results of this study show that the Management of Sports Infrastructure Facilities Management After the Implementation of PON XX carried out by the Youth Sports and Sports Office of Papua Province is very good. The existing policies to support the maintenance of the ex-PON venue have been very good and will continue to be evaluated and improved for more advanced sports in Papua Province.

 

Keywords: Management; Sports infrastructure; Program Evaluation
THE INFLUENCE OF SPEED ENDURENCE, LEG LENGTH, AND ACHIEVEMENT MOTIVATION ON THE ACHIEVEMENT OF INDONESIAN JUNIOR TAEKWONDO ATHLETES IN 2023
Authors: Mugiyanto  , Fachrezzy Fahmy , Subandi Oman Unju
Published: April 2024

The purpose of this study was to determine and reveal whether or not there is an influence between speed endurance, leg length, and achievement motivation on the achievement of Indonesian taekwondo junior athletes in 2023. This research was carried out using a quantitative approach using the survey method with path analysis techniques. The population in this study were all Indonesian taekwondo junior athletes. By taking the sample using the total sampling technique where the sample used is all of the population, namely all members of Indonesian junior taekwondo athletes because in the research that will be carried out because the population is considered smaller or less than 100. Based on the results of data analysis and hypothesis testing from research data variable speed endurance, leg length, motivation and achievement results of Indonesian taekwondo junior athletes, the following conclusions can be drawn:   There is an effect of speed endurance on motivation with a direct influence percentage of 49.3%. There is an effect of leg length on motivation with a direct influence percentage of 39.5%. There is an effect of speed endurance on the achievement results of Indonesian junior taekwondo athletes with a direct influence percentage of 21.3%. There is an effect of leg length on the achievement of Indonesian junior taekwondo athletes with a direct influence percentage of 19.9%. There is a motivational influence on the achievement of Indonesian junior taekwondo athletes with a direct influence percentage of 58%. There is an indirect effect between speed endurance on the achievement results of Indonesian junior taekwondo athletes through motivation with a significance value of 0.468. There is an indirect effect between leg length on the achievement of Indonesian junior taekwondo athletes through motivation with a significance value of 0.428.
Legalitas Dan Akuntabilitas Keuangan Lembaga Filantropi Dalam Keuangan Sosial Islam
Authors: Hasanah Nuramalia , Ilham Mochammad Fajar , Muhammad
Published: April 2024

Praktek filantropi Islam yang mengakar dalam tradisi masyarakat Indonesia dalam bentuk zakat, infaq, shadaqoh dan wakaf (ZISWAF) semakin berkembang terutama disebabkan oleh melebarnya kesenjangan masyarakat kaya dan miskin serta berbagai bencana alam yang datang silih berganti. Peran lembaga filantropi Islam dan lembaga amil zakat (LAZ) banyak membantu masyarakat yang membutuhkan pertolongan. Peran lembaga-lembaga filantropi islam dengan adanya pengumpulan dan pengalokasian dana zakat, infaq, shadaqah, dan wakaf (ZISWAF) memberikan manfaat bagi masyarakat luas dalam pengembangan ekonomi umat.

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mendeskripsikan akuntabilitas keuangan untuk pengelolaan dana lembaga filantropi islam dalam pengembangan ekonomi umat. Data yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah data sekunder yang didapatkan dari website lembaga filantropi Indonesia. Sampel sejumlah 5 sampel yang terdaftar di website lembaga filantropi keagamaan Indonesia. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode kuantitatif dengan menggunakan analisis  deskriptif. Hasil yang didapatkan adalah Akuntabilitas 5 lembaga filantropi yang menjadi sampel dalam kategori baik berdasarkan hasil indikator keteraksesan dan ketersediaan laporan keuangan.Penelitian ini berguna untuk pihak akademisi, lembaga filantropi dan pemerintah
The Effect of Operating Cash Flow, Company Size on Tax Avoidance in Consumer Goods Companies Listed on the IDX for the 2019-2021 Period
Authors: Ega Kirana Aryanti  , Handayani Rini
Published: April 2024

Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk menguji arus kas operasi serta ukuran perusahaan terhadap praktik tax avoidance di perusahaan sektor barang konsumsi sub sektor makanan dan minuman yang terdaftar di Bursa Efek Indonesia Periode 2019-2021. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode kuantitatif dengan data sekunder berupa laporan keuangan perusahaan. Adapun jenis penelitian ini yaitu dengan causal explanatory. Populasi penelitian ini terdiri dari 83 perusahaan. Dalam sektor tersebut dipilih melalui teknik purposive sampling sehingga menghasilkan 32 perusahaan. Analisis data dilakukan dengan menggunakan uji regresi berganda. Hasil penelitian menunjukan bahwa arus kas operasi secara signifikan berpengaruh negatif terhadap praktik tax avoidance. Sedangkan, ukuran perusahaan tidak memiliki pengaruh signifikan terhadap praktik tax avoidance.
The Influence of Component Design and Positioning on Soft-Tissue Tensioning and Complications in Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty
Authors: Haase Lucas , Ina Jason , Harlow Ethan , Chen Raymond , Gillespie Robert , Calcei Jacob
Published: April 2024

» Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty was designed to function in the rotator cuff deficient shoulder by adjusting the glenohumeral center of rotation (COR) to maximize deltoid function.

» Adjustments in the COR ultimately lead to changes in resting tension of the deltoid and remaining rotator cuff, which can affect implant stability and risk of stress fracture.

» Soft-tissue balance and complication profiles can be affected by humeral component (version, neck shaft angle, and inlay vs. onlay) and glenoid component (sagittal placement, version, inclination, and lateralization) design and application.

» A good understanding of the effects on soft-tissue balance and complication profile is critical for surgeons to best provide optimal patient outcomes.
Use of sediment tracers to evaluate sediment plume at Beaufort Inlet and Adjacent Beaches, North Carolina
Authors: Li Honghai , Rucker Carter , Lin Lihwa , Conner Kevin
Published: April 2024

This report documents a numerical modeling investigation on the transport of sediment material placed on designated disposal sites adjacent to Beaufort Inlet, North Carolina. Historical and newly collected wave and hydrodynamic data around the inlet are assembled and analyzed. The data sets are used to calibrate and validate a coastal wave, hydrodynamic and sediment transport model, the Coastal Modeling System. Model alternatives are developed corresponding to different material placement sites. Sediment transport and sediment plume distribution are evaluated within and around the immediate vicinity of the Beaufort Inlet estuarine system for a representative summer and winter month. Results of model simulations show that high flows occur along navigation channels and low flows occur outside the inlet in open ocean area. Sand materials placed in nearshore sites tend to be trapped in and move along navigation channels entering the inlet. In offshore placement sites the sediment plume shows slow spreading and no significant sand migration from its release locations. Simulations for the summer and winter month present similar distribution patterns of sediments originating from placement sites.
Win-Win-Win: Drop-in Mathematics Support for Secondary School Students
Authors: Mac an Bhaird Ciarán , McGlinchey Aisling , Mulligan Peter
Published: April 2024

Mathematics Learning Support (MLS), which is available in the majority of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in Ireland and the UK, is traditionally available only to students of those institutions. In this paper, we describe a drop-in model of MLS at Maynooth University (MU) which has been available for secondary school students since 2009. This service is mainly staffed by volunteer undergraduate trainee teachers. Their feedback, the main focus of this paper, which has been collected over ten years, indicates that this experience has had a positive impact on their teaching practice. School students are also very positive about the support and MU enthusiastically endorses the service. We conclude that there are no obvious downsides to the provision of this type of support and we believe that more institutions should consider making it available.
Use of esketamine for tracheoscopic drug injection: a clinical study
Authors: Zhao Xiaoming , Zhou Zhendong , Li Zhenhua , Yu Yuanyuan
Published: April 2024

Background
To assess the feasibility and safety of ketamine for tracheoscopic drug injection and identify an effective and safe anesthetic method.
Methods
This study included 100 patients who required painless bronchoscopy and endoscopic drug injection at our hospital from January 2020 to March 2021. Patients were randomly divided into two groups (n = 50 each): Group A received esketamine and Group B received sufentanil. During anesthesia induction, propofol and atracurium at mg/kg and 0.4 mg/kg doses were intravenously administered. Groups A and B received intravenous esketamine and sufentanil at mg/kg and 0.2 µg/kg doses, respectively. A laryngeal mask was inserted and connected to the anesthesia machine for mechanical ventilation. Anesthesia was maintained by continuous intravenous infusion of propofol at 3 mg/kg. Changes in oxygen saturation, blood pressure, surgical duration, and awake time were assessed and recorded in all patients before and after anesthesia induction.
Results
The anesthetic effect in Group A was significantly better than that in Group B (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference concerning respiration inhibition between Groups A and B (P > 0.05). The awake time of Group A was significantly earlier than that of Group B (P < 0.05). The effect of anesthesia on blood pressure and heart rate in Group A was lesser than that in Group B (P < 0.05).
Conclusion
The anesthetic effect of ketamine combined with propofol in painless bronchoscopy injection for diagnosis and treatment is good. In clinical practice, the appropriate compatible drug can be selected based on the patient’s vital signs. Hence, the patients can undergo a smooth and comfortable surgery.
Trial registration
Chinese Clinical Trial Registry
Name of Registration: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry
The registration number is：ChiCTR2000039902
Date of Registration: 22/12/2020
High-fidelity TM020 Mode HOM-damped accelerating cavity: Overcoming electromagnetic field leakage to increase operating voltage tolerance
Authors: Hao Xuerui , Zhu Junyu , Li Xiao , Yu Jiebing , Huang Leyao , Lu Zhijun , Zhang Chunlin , Long Wei , Chen Shengyi , Liu Yang , Liu Shenghua , Wu Bin , Li Xiang , Wu Jian
Published: April 2024

Radiofrequency cavities play a crucial role in synchrotron light sources by replenishing beam energy and providing sufficient accelerating voltage. Compared to traditional TM010 cavities, TM020 cavities offer advantages such as higher quality factor, higher accelerating voltage, and lower characteristic impedance. Additionally, their unique field distribution allows strategic placement of dampers at radial nodes, effectively suppressing higher-order modes within a compact structure. However, the radiofrequency performance of cavity is highly sensitive to the placement of the higher-order modes coupling slot and the Electromagnetic(EM) field symmetry. These factors can easily lead to leakage of the accelerating mode, with the leaked energy absorbed by the absorber, whose power handling capacity is limited. Consequently, the leakage rate of the TM020 mode damping cavity becomes critical in limiting the achievable accelerating cavity voltage. This paper proposes a novel extraction scheme utilizing a circular waveguide structure and a waveguide-coaxial input coupler to significantly reduce accelerating field leakage, thereby achieving a high-fidelity TM020 cavity. A detailed design of a 500 MHz TM020 HOM-damped cavity is presented. Simulation results demonstrate that the energy leakage of the accelerating mode can be suppressed below 1% during operation.
Per-Residue Footprints Guided Pharmacophore Model and Pharmacokinetic Profiles for the Discovery of Potential METTL3 Inhibitors Against Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Mncube Samukelisiwe Minenhle , Issahaku Abdul Rashid , Soliman Mahmoud E. S.
Published: April 2024

The impact of the protein METTL3 on tumorigenesis is well-established in cancer research. It promotes cell growth, invasion, migration, and drug resistance. METTL3 is also involved in the modulation of hematopoietic stem cell differentiation. Inhibiting METTL3 presents a potential therapeutic strategy for myeloid leukemia. This study aimed to identify METTL3 inhibitors through a structure-based virtual screening approach, utilizing an in-house per-residue decomposition virtual screening protocol. We mapped the binding interaction profile of V22, a recognized METTL3 inhibitor, to construct a pharmacophore model for the systematic exploration of potential inhibitors within a chemical database. Four out of nine hit compounds retrieved from ZINC compounds database, showed promising results, and were further investigated. A comprehensive evaluation of the ADMET properties and physicochemical characteristics of these compounds revealed superior qualities compared to V22. Molecular dynamics (MD) trajectory analysis unveiled substantial structural conformational changes induced by these compounds within the METTL3 protein, offering potential insights into therapeutic inhibition. After mapping per-residue interaction footprints and examining toxicity profiles, we successfully identified the critical residues essential for activity and selectivity, informing our inhibitor design. Furthermore, the four compounds exhibited total binding energies of − 45.3 ± 3.3, − 40.1 ± 4.2, − 56.9 ± 3.3, and − 50.1 ± 4.1 kcal/mol for ZINC67367742, ZINC76585975, ZINC76603049, and ZINC76600653, respectively. The structural changes observed in proteins upon binding to specific compounds have important therapeutic implications. These alterations include increased stability, improved structural alignment, reduced flexibility, and greater compactness. These changes make these compounds promising candidates for developing more effective therapeutic inhibitors in the treatment of myeloid leukemia.
Effect of Ecoliteracy on Farmers’ Participation in Pesticide Packaging Waste Governance Behavior: Evidence from Rural North China
Authors: Song Yang , Cui Haixia , Zong Yixiang , Yin Shi
Published: April 2024

Farmers’ participation in pesticide packaging waste (PPW) governance is important for improving agricultural pollution and achieving sustainable agricultural development. This study investigates how ecoliteracy affects farmers’ participation in PPW governance and explores the mediating effect of farmers’ willingness to participate (WTP) in PPW governance. We use structural equation modeling to analyze data collected from a questionnaire survey including 1, 118 samples of Chinese farmers. The results show that (1) Ecoliteracy significantly affects farmers’ WTP in PPW governance. Ecological cognition, emotion, values, and knowledge and skills positively affect WTP in PPW governance, while ecological cognition and ecological knowledge and skills significantly affect participation in PPW governance behavior. (2) Farmers’ WTP in PPW governance mediates ecoliteracy and governance participation behavior. (3) Heterogeneity analysis reveals that different planting scales, different planting categories, and receiving/not receiving government project support have different effects on farmers’ participation in governance behavior. Farmers in the large-scale group are more likely to participate in governance than those in the medium- and small-scale groups, and farmers in the mixed grain and economic category are more likely to participate in governance than those in the economic and grain categories. Furthermore, farmers who receive government support are more likely to participate in governance than those who do not. Our results can serve as a policymaking reference for promoting PPW governance in various regions.
Revisiting Resilience: Case of Syrian Children in Turkish Education Ecosystem
Authors: çalhan merve
Published: April 2024

Resilience is studied by researchers from various disciplines such as psychology, psychiatry and biological disciplines. Though the resiliency literature has expanded to a considerable extent, only a few studies have examined the resiliency patterns in child asylum-seekers/refugees. Using the constructivist perspective, the aim of the research to identify whether Syrian asylum-seeker children are able to develop resilience in Turkish education system. The date for this research were collected through a comprehensive field work based on interviews with a total of 100 Syrian children who are in the Turkish education system aged 13–18 living in Turkey, Kocaeli province. In the study, participants identified eight resilience strategies to deal with current traumatic stress generators and five education resilience parameters. These strategies positively influenced Syrian children to strengthen their sense of belonging, self-confidence and self-esteem. Based on the results, %64,4 of the participants believed that education is a significant tool to deal with struggles in host society; %60,6 stated education enabled them to find out their abilities; %81,6 emphasized if they did not join a class, they could feel more anxious and depressed; %82,2 reported that they have a fulfilling relationship with their teachers, %88,9 stated that they feel safe at school environment.
Operational and Environmental Tests of Nanomembrane-Produced Rapeseed Biodiesel at a Small Biomass-Fuelled Power Plant
Authors: Ashikhmin Alexander , Verkhodanov Danila , Piskunov Maxim , Strizhak Pavel
Published: April 2024

The research tests an environmentally sustainable rapeseed biodiesel produced by transesterification in an electrospinning-manufactured nanomembrane reactor from polyvinylidene fluoride and a copolymer of vinylidene fluoride with tetrafluoroethylene. The Kalman filter analyzed the following hydrodynamic and kinematic characteristics of the atomized flow of diesel fuel, fatty acid methyl esters (FAME) of rapeseed oil and their mixtures B6 and B12: droplet mean diameter and number, their absolute velocity and the distributions of their velocity and trajectories in streamlined and forced swirling gas-liquid flows. Fuel combustion tests took place in a test rig equipped with a swirl burner while maintaining the equivalence ratio equal to 1 and the air/liquid ratio – 14.5. They determine effects of injection pressure, FAME content, and gas-liquid flow swirling on the flame structure and temperature, the fuel ignition delay. The emissions of CO, CO2, and NOx from burning biodiesels B6 and B12, FAME, and diesel fuel are compared. The effect of exhaust gas recirculation on concentrations of the main combustion gases (O2, CO, CO2, NOx) is estimated. The findings treated by the weighted sum method made it possible to suggest the optimal biofuel blend. An affordable green energy technology for small-scale power generation is proposed.
Landscape of the Immune Infiltration and Identification of Molecular Diagnostic Markers Associated With Immune Cells in Patients With Kidney Transplantation
Authors: Xu Zhangxiao , Sun Xun , Ma Xiaobo , Tao Bo , Wu Jian , He Yunpeng , Zhao Yuan , Mao Hexiang , Yang Jie , Jiang Dehui , Song Chao , Wang Lijun
Published: April 2024

Rejection seriously affects the success of kidney transplantation. However, the molecular mechanism of the occurrence of rejection remains unclear. Firstly, GSE21374 and GSE36059 dataset were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Next, Cell-type Identification by Estimating Relative Subsets of RNA Transcripts (CIBERSORT) algorithm was selected to infer the proportions of 22 immune cells. Moreover, infiltrating immune cells-related genes were identified by weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), and enrichment analysis was conducted to observe their biological function. Furthermore, Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) and Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) logistic regression algorithm was selected to screen hub genes. Ultimately, quantitative real-time-PCR were conducted to verify the numbers of immune cells and the expressions of hub genes. Down-regulated B cells memory, Plasma cells, and Mast cell and up-regulated T cells follicular helper, T CD8 cells, Macrophages M1, T Cells CD4 memory activated, and T cells gamma delta were up-regulated were observed in rejections. Subsequently, ARS, CD8A, CRTAM, GBP2 and VAMP5 were screened as hub genes by XGBoost and LASSO algorithm, and might be used to the diagnostic biomarkers. Finally, differential analysis and quantitative real-time-PCR suggested that ARS, CD8A, CRTAM, GBP2 and VAMP5 were up-regulated in rejection samples compared to non-rejection samples. The present study identified 5 key infiltrating immune cells-related genes (ARS, CD8A, CRTAM, GBP2 and VAMP5) in rejection of kidney transplantation, which may contribute to explain the molecular mechanism of rejection in kidney transplantation development.
Survival of Lung Cancer Patients Considering Criteria for Lung Cancer Screening: Analysis of the Korean Lung Cancer Registry, 2014-2016
Authors: Lee Sangwon , Park Eun Hye , Jang Bo Yun , Kang Ye Ji , Jung Kyu-Won , Cha Hyo Soung , Choi Kui Son
Published: April 2024

Background: This study compared survival between lung cancer patients meeting criteria for the National Lung Cancer Screening Program in Korea launched in 2019 and expanded US Preventive Service Task Force (USPSTF) recommendations.
Methods: We assessed all-cause mortality based on the Korean Lung Cancer Registry (KLCR), including lung cancer patients diagnosed in 2014–2016. We compared survival among lung cancer patients eligible for extended USPSTF criteria (age 50–80 years and ≥20 pack-years) and those meeting current criteria (age 54–74 years and ≥30 pack-years, current or within the past 15 years). The nearest neighbor propensity-score matching was performed to generate a matched set. Kaplan–Meier curves were generated to compare survival among groups; differences in survival were analyzed using the stratified log-rank test. The mortality risk was estimated based on a Cox proportional hazards regression model and the robust standard error was calculated.
Results: Of 8110 patients, 40·4% and 25·4% met the extended USPSTF eligibility criteria and National Lung Cancer Screening Program (NLCSP) criteria, respectively. Overall mortality risk was not significantly different between the extended younger age group and the NLCSP group (hazard ratio [HR] [95% confidence interval (CI)]: 0·96 [0·72–1·28]). The extended older age group had a significantly higher mortality risk (HR [95% CI]: 1·38 [1·24–1·54]). Mortality risk was not significantly different between patients who smoked 20–29 pack-years and those who smoked ≥30 pack-years (HR [95% CI]: 0·90 [0·79–1·02]).
Conclusion: Lung cancer patients aged 50–53 years and those with a 20–29 pack-years smoking history exhibited similar mortality risk to individuals meeting current criteria, while patients aged 75–80 years were at a higher risk of death. Although we verified similar or higher mortality risks in extended subgroups, a careful assessment of the benefits and harms of the screening tests is necessary when contemplating the extension of criteria.
Beyond Predictions: An Interpretable Machine Learning Approach for Battery Performance Forecasting
Authors: Kim Jieun , Choi Injun , Kim Ju Seong , Hwang Hyokkee , Park Inchul
Published: April 2024

Lithium-rich layered oxide (LRLO) hold great promise as cathode materials for lithium-ion batteries, but they face challenges due to their complex electrochemical behavior and structural instability. This study proposes an analysis framework using unsupervised learning via Principal Component Analysis (PCA) to improve the predictability and reliability of these materials. By applying PCA, we have identified key factors affecting their electrochemical performance and degradation mechanisms. This has enabled us to easily separate and elucidate oxygen and manganese redox reactions in the low-voltage range, thereby improving our understanding of how the evolution of these reactions affects the degradation of LRLO materials. The PCA-based approach proves to be highly effective in predicting performance and identifying degradation pathways, making a significant advance in the understanding and optimization of these cathodes. These findings represent a step forward in quantifying the mechanisms of electrode materials, which requires the development of models that integrate domain knowledge with data.
A Low-Profile Patch-Loaded Ring Antenna with Wide Frequency Tuning Capability for Dual-Band Metal-Mountable Tag Design
Authors: Murugesh Muthukannan , Rahim Sharul Kamal Abdul , Lim Eng-Hock , Chee Pei-Song
Published: April 2024

A low-profile ring antenna (39 mm × 39 mm × 1.38 mm), which is loaded with a circular patch at the central region for frequency tuning purposes, has been proposed for anti-metal applications that operate in the Lower European (LEu) and the North American (NA) UHF-RFID passbands. The antenna itself consists of a square ring as well as a hexagonal ring, all of which can be fully made on a single-layer substrate, and they are concentrically stacked for generating a stable broadside radiation pattern on metal surface. The dimensions of the rings can be adjusted to achieve efficient frequency tuning capability, with conjugate impedance matching over the two operating frequencies. The proposed tag antenna is simple and it does not require the use of other complex tuning mechanisms. Independent frequency tuning is possible in the two passbands. With 4W Effective Isotropic Radiated Power (EIRP), it can achieve long read ranges of 8 m and 9 m, respectively, over the LEu and NA UHF-RFID passbands. A detailed analysis was conducted to understand the resonance characteristics, and a Transmission Line (TL) model was constructed to facilitate the design of the tag antenna. It is important to highlight that the two tag resonant frequencies are stable and not much affected by the presence of the backing metallic object.
Snail hosts abundance mediates the effects of antagonist interactions between trematodes on the transmission of human schistosomes.
Authors: Douchet Philippe , Haegeman Bart , Allienne Jean-François , Boissier Jérôme , Senghor Bruno , Rey Olivier
Published: April 2024

Background: Combating infectious diseases and halting biodiversity loss are intertwined challenges crucial to ensure global health. Biodiversity can constrain the spread of vector-borne pathogens circulation, necessitating a deeper understanding of ecological mechanisms underlying this pattern. Our study evaluates the relative importance of biodiversity and the abundance of Bulinus truncatus, a major intermediate host for the trematode Schistosoma haematobium on the circulation of this human pathogen at aquatic transmission sites.
Methods: We combined mathematical modelling and a molecular based empirical study to specifically assess the effect of co-infections between S. haematobium and other trematodes within their B. truncatus snail hosts; and B. truncatus abundance at transmission sites, on the production of S. haematobium infective cercariae stages released into the aquatic environment.
Results: Our modelling approach shows that more competitive trematode species exploiting B. truncatus as an intermediate host at the transmission site level leads to higher co-infection rates within snail hosts, subsequently reducing the production of S. haematobium cercariae. Conversely, an increase in B. truncatus abundance results in lower co-infection rates, and a higher proportion of S. haematobium cercariae released into the environment. Our empirical data from the field support these findings, indicating a significant negative effect of local trematode species richness and co-infection rates on the dominance of S. haematobium, while B. truncatus abundance positively influences S. haematobium dominance.
Conclusions: Our study highlights the importance of biodiversity in influencing the transmission of S. haematobium through the effect of antagonistic interactions between trematodes within bulinid snail hosts. This effect intensifies when B. truncatus populations are low, promoting co-infections within snails. In line with the need for concrete applications of the One Health concept, we advocate for maintaining high global freshwater biodiversity to sustain global trematode diversity at transmission sites, offering a cost-effective means to significantly reduce schistosome prevalence and intensity while preserving aquatic ecosystem services.
Significant role of secondary electrons in the formation of a multi-body chemical species spur produced by water radiolysis
Authors: Kai Takeshi , Toigawa Tomohiro , Matsuya Yusuke , Hirata Yuho , Tezuka Tomoya , Tsuchida Hidetsugu , Yokoya Akinari
Published: April 2024

Scientific insights into water photolysis and radiolysis are essential for estimating the direct and indirect effects of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) damage. Secondary electrons from radiolysis intricately associated with both effects. Herein, we simulate the femtosecond (1 × 10− 15 s) dynamics of secondary electrons ejected by energy depositions of 20−30 eV into water via high-energy electron transport using a time-dependent first-principles simulation code. The simulation results present the earliest formation mechanism of an unclear multi-body chemical species spur when secondary electrons induce further ionisations or electronic excitations. The formation involves electron–water collisions, i.e. ionisation, electronic excitation, molecular excitation and elastic scattering. Our simulation results indicate that (1) most secondary electrons delocalise to ~ 12 nm, and multiple collisions are sometimes induced in a water molecule at 22 eV deposition energy. (2) The secondary electrons begin to induce diffuse band excitation of water around a few nm from the initial energy deposition site and delocalise to ~ 8 nm at deposition energies ~ 25 eV. (3) The secondary electron can cause one additional ionisation or electronic excitation at deposition energies > 30 eV, forming a multi-body chemical species spur. Thus, we propose that the type and density of chemical species produced by water radiolysis strongly depend on the deposition energy. These findings provide significant chemical and biological insights into the formation of multiple DNA damage, believed to induce the latter biological effects, such as cell death, mutation or carcinogenesis.
Evaluating Water Quality, Mineralization Mechanisms, and Potential Health Risks of Nitrate Contamination in the Continental Intercalaire Aquifer of Reggane, Algeria
Authors: Bouselsal Boualem , Satouh Adel , Egbueri Johnbosco C.
Published: April 2024

In the Reggane arid region, the Continental Intercalaire (CI) aquifer plays a critical role as a water source, meeting daily water needs such as drinking, domestic use, and agricultural usage. This study assessed the hydrogeochemical characteristics influencing water mineralization, the overall quality of the groundwater in the CI aquifer for consumption and irrigation usage, and identifies possible chronic health risks for different age groups. To this end, groundwater samples were collected and analyzed for various physicochemical parameters. The assessment tools used include graphical plots, statistical analyses, groundwater pollution index (GPI), nitrate pollution index (NPI), health risk assessment (HRA) model, and irrigation water quality index (IWQI). GPI analysis reveals that 16%, 40%, and 44% of CI aquifer samples are classified with moderate, high, and extremely high pollution, respectively. The NPI method indicates that nitrate pollution levels fall into three categories: moderate (12%), significant (36%), and very significant (49%). HRA results showed that human health risks varied between 3.13 and 10.46 for children, 2.47 and 8.27 for teenagers, and 1.61 and 5.38 for adults, signifying an high risk that spanned all age demographics in the region. Regarding agricultural use, IWQI indicates that water from all studied wells is highly unsuitable for irrigation, potentially harming both soils and plant growth. Hydrochemical analysis by Piper diagram suggested a water type evolution from Na-Cl upstream to Ca-Mg-Cl downstream. Other analytical tools, like Gibbs diagrams, scatter plots, chloro-alkaline indices, saturation indices and multivariate statistical tools, indicated that the hydrochemistry is mainly influenced by interactions with aquifer materials, notably silicate weathering, halite and gypsum dissolution, and cation exchange processes. The study also revealed that the presence of nitrates is primarily attributable to domestic effluents from residential areas.
WTAP accelerates esophageal squamous cell carcinoma progression by regulating CCND1 through MAPK signaling pathway
Authors: Zhang Hong , Zhang Xiaojing , Zhang Yan , Wu Jianhua , Li Jiali , Shan Baoen
Published: April 2024

N6-methyladenosine (m6A) methylation, as a new regulatory mechanism, has been reported to be involved in diverse biological processes in recent years. Wilms tumor 1-associated protein (WTAP), as the key member of m6A methylation, has been proved to participate in the tumorigenesis. Here, we studied the expression of WTAP and its potential mechanism involved in the development of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). We detected the expression of WTAP and its correlation with clinicopathological features, and we determined the function of WTAP on ESCC cells by MTS assay, colony formation, scratch wound healing assay, transwell assays and subcutaneous xenograft assay. We used mRNA sequencing technology to screen candidate downstream targets for WTAP, and investigated the underlying mechanism of CCND1 in ESCC promotion through a series of rescue assays. An elevated expression of WTAP in ESCC malignancy indicated a worse prognosis. WTAP promoted proliferation and metastasis of ESCC cells and CCND1 was identified as the potential downstream effecter of WTAP. Moreover, WTAP modulated ESCC progression through MAPK pathway-dependent pattern. Our research suggested that WTAP promoted both proliferation and metastasis of ESCC by accelerating the expression of CCND1 via MAPK signaling pathway, indicating that WTAP may be a candidate prognostic biomarker for ESCC and also will be a promising strategy for ESCC cancer therapy.
A novel long non-coding RNA WASIR2 regulates MEX3A expression by sponging miR-374b-5p and promotes lung adenocarcinoma progression
Authors: Fang Xisheng , Liu Xia , Wang Lina , Weng Chengyin , Xu Lin , Wu Yong , Li Baoxiu , Mao Haibo , Lu Lin , Liu Guolong
Published: April 2024

Background
Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been reported to play important roles in the progression of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). However, the expressions and function of lncRNA WASIR2 remain largely unknown in LUAD.
Methods
Differential expression of WASIR2, miR-374b-5p and MEX3A between LUAD tumor tissues and normal tissues were analyzed according to The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database, GEPIA online tool and our own clinical specimens. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was performed to investigate their prognostic value in LUAD. CCK8 assay was performed to evaluate the cell proliferation ability. Transwell assay was used to evaluate cell migration and invasion. Furthermore, a luciferase reporter assay was performed to explore the target of WASIR2.
Results
WASIR2 expression was significantly upregulated in LUAD tumor tissues. Upregulated expression of WASIR2 was correlated with poor overall survival. Gain-of and loss-of function assays showed that overexpression of WASIR2 promoted tumor cell proliferation, migration and invasion, while silencing of WASIR2 inhibited these effects. Mechanistically, WASIR2 upregulated the expression of MEX3A by directly binding to miR-374b-5p. Rescue assays showed that miR-374b-5p could reverse the effects of WASIR2 on cell proliferation, migration and invasion.
Conclusion
Together, our study demonstrated that WASIR2 could promote the progression of lung adenocarcinoma through upregulating MEX3A expression by sponging miR-374b-5p. This study provides novel evidence that WASIR2 could be viewed as a prognostic factor and therapeutic target in LUAD.
Potential of different governance mechanisms for achieving Global Biodiversity Framework goals
Authors: Negret Pablo Jose , Rincon Victor , Novoa Sidney , Quispe Marvin , Valdés-Velásquez Armando , Forero-Medina German , Amano Tatsuya , Saravia Miguel , Schleicher Judith , Zaehringer Julie Gwendolin
Published: April 2024

The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework includes a target of 30% of land protected by 2030 and refers to other effective area based conservation measures (OECMs) as complementary to PAs, but robust evaluations of the effectiveness of governance mechanisms that could act as OECMs in preventing forest loss and carbon emissions remain sparse. Here we assessed the impact of PAs and two potential OECMS: Indigenous Lands (ILs), and Non-Timber Forest products Concessions (NTCs) on forest loss and its associated carbon emissions in the Peruvian Amazon from 2000 to 2021. We also assessed two governance mechanisms with a commercial extractive use, Logging (LCs) and Mining Concessions (MCs). We used a robust before–after control intervention study design, with statistical matching, to account for the non-random spatial distribution of deforestation pressure and the governance mechanisms analysed. PAs were the most effective, having avoided 88% of the expected forest loss, followed by NTCs (64%) and ILs (44%). LCs also reduced expected forest loss by 29%, while MCs increased expected forest loss by 24%, showing that extractive governance mechanisms can have marked differences in their impact to forest cover. Our study provides evidence of long-term positive impacts of potential OECMs and other mechanisms at preventing forest loss and reducing carbon emission. This information is key to more effectively achieve targets from the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change.
Surgical management of injuries to the abdomen in patients with multiple and/or severe trauma – A systematic review and clinical practice guideline update
Authors: Güsgen Christoph , Breuing Jessica , Prediger Barbara , Schwab Robert
Published: April 2024

Purpose
Our aim was to update evidence-based and consensus-based recommendations for the surgical management of abdominal injuries in patients with multiple and/or severe injuries based on current evidence. This guideline topic is part of the 2022 update of the German Guideline on the Treatment of Patients with Multiple and/or Severe Injuries.
Methods
MEDLINE and Embase were systematically searched to May 2021. Further literature reports were obtained from clinical experts. Randomised controlled trials, prospective cohort studies, cross-sectional studies and comparative registry studies were included if they compared interventions for the surgical management of abdominal injuries in patients with multiple and/or severe injuries. We considered patient-relevant clinical outcomes such as mortality, length of stay, and diagnostic test accuracy. Risk of bias was assessed using NICE 2012 checklists. The evidence was synthesised narratively, and expert consensus was used to develop recommendations and determine their strength.
Results
Three studies were identified. The topics of these studies were nonoperative management in haemodynamically stable patients with isolated blunt hepatic (n = 1) or splenic injuries (n = 1) and selective angioembolisation (n = 1). None of the recommendations were modified, one new recommendation was developed, and one was deleted based on the updated evidence and expert consensus. All recommendations achieved strong consensus.
Conclusion
The following recommendations are made. All but one of the previous guideline recommendations were confirmed. The recommendation to perform diagnostic peritoneal lavage in exceptional cases was completely deleted. An additional recommendation was made and states that diagnostic laparoscopy be performed in haemodynamically stable patients with penetrating trauma when there is therapeutic uncertainty.