bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhancing Privacy-Preserving of Heterogeneous Federated Learning Algorithms Using Data-Free Knowledge Distillation
Authors: najafi mohammadreza
Published: October 2024

Federated learning (FL) is a decentralized machine learning paradigm that allows multiple local clients to collaboratively train a global model by sharing their model parameters instead of private data, thereby mitigating privacy leakage. However, recent studies have shown that gradient-based data reconstruction attacks (DRA) can still expose private information by exploiting model parameters from local clients. Existing privacy-preserving FL strategies provide some defence against these attacks but at the cost of significantly reduced model accuracy. Moreover, the issue of client heterogeneity further exacerbates these FL methods, resulting in drifted global models, slower convergence, and decreased performance. This study aims to address the two main challenges of FL: data heterogeneity, particularly in Non-Identical and Independent Distributions (Non-IID) clients, and client privacy through DRA. By leveraging the Lagrange duality approach and employing a generator model to facilitate knowledge distillation (KD) between clients, thereby enhancing local model performance, this method aims to concurrently address the primary challenges encountered by FL in real-world applications.
Automating the Creation of Ship Hull & Lines Plan from Offset Table Using Grasshopper
Authors: Hasan MD. Rokibul
Published: October 2024

Designing a ship hull is a complex procedure that involves constructing the basic hull using predetermined criteria or specified lines. Grasshopper, a visual programming environment for Rhinoceros 3D (CAD software), has a parametric modeling and analysis tool that automates the generation of ship hull and line plans using offset tables. This strategy reduces the necessity of manual design while enhancing efficiency and precision. Grasshopper is widely used for generating designs, enabling designers to visually create intricate algorithms by connecting components instead of writing code. This paper proposes a novel technique to automate the construction of ship hull and line plans with Grasshopper, leveraging its parametric capabilities to produce hull shapes and plan lines readily from offset table data. Future advancements may involve combining hydrostatic and hydrodynamic evaluations, improving hull performance, and automating the fairing process. A user-friendly interface and real-time collaboration tools can boost accessibility and design flexibility.
Mathematical Modeling of Load Capacity and Durability of Metal-Polymeric Bearings with a Composite Bushing Based on Polyamides, Polytetrafluoroethylenes, Polyetheretherketones, or Polyethylene Terephthalates
Authors: Czerniec Myron , Czerniec Jerzy , Zubrzycki Jarosław
Published: October 2024

(1) Predictive assessment of the performance characteristics of metal-polymer (MP) plain bearings at the design stage is necessary and important for engineering practice. They include bearing capacity, linear wear of the bushing, and bearing life. However, no method for their calculation has been developed. (2) The authors have created a generalized analytical method for the mathematical modeling of MP sliding bearings as a classical science-based method of contact mechanics of conformal cylindrical bodies with consideration of polymer bushing wear. (3) Contact problem of the theory of elasticity takes into account the significant difference in the elasticity characteristics of polymeric materials from those of steel: Young's modulus is 60...250 times smaller, Poisson's ratio is 1.27...1.37 times larger. The method has been used to study MP bearings with several common groups of tribopolymers used for bushings: PA, PTFE, PET, and PEEK. The maximum contact pressures and durability of dry friction bearings have been calculated taking into account the load, radial clearance, bushing thickness, elasticity characteristics of tribopolymers, their wear resistance, sliding friction coefficient, and type of tribopolymer materials. (4) The paper establishes quantitative and qualitative regularities of the influence of these factors on the maximum contact pressures and bearing durability.
Effects of Marine-Derived Components on Cardiovascular Diseases Risk Factors and Gut Microbiota Diversity
Authors: Lamminpaa Ingrid , Amedei Amedeo , Parolini Cinzia
Published: October 2024

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), which comprise coronary heart disease, hypertension and stroke, collectively represent the number one cause of death globally. Atherosclerosis is the dominant cause of CVDs; and its risk factors are elevated levels of low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol and triglycerides, hypertension, cigarette smoking, obesity and diabetes mellitus. In addition, diverse evidence highlighted the role played by inflammation and clonal haematopoiesis, eventually leading to the immunity involvement. The human microbiota project and subsequent studies using next-generation sequencing technology have highlighted that thousands of different microbial species are present in the human gut. The disturbances in the gut microbiota (GM) composition, i.e., gut dysbiosis, have been associated with diseases ranging from localized gastrointestinal disorders to metabolic and cardiovascular illnesses. Of note, experimental studies suggested that GM, host immune cells and marine-derived ingredients work together to ensure the intestinal wall integrity. This review discusses current evidence concerning the links among GM, marine-derived ingredients and human inflammatory disease. In detail, we summarize the impact of fish-derived proteins and algae components, on CVDs risk factors and gut microbiome. Furthermore, we describe the interplay among these dietary components, probiotics/prebiotics and CVDs.
Deep Generative Models for 3D Content Creation: A Comprehensive Survey of Architectures, Challenges, and Emerging Trends
Authors: Chen Kaiqi , Ramsey Libby
Published: October 2024

The field of 3D model generation has become essential across various industries, including gaming, virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR), architecture, and medical imaging. Traditionally reliant on manual efforts, 3D content creation is now being transformed by deep generative models, enabling more efficient, scalable, and dynamic generation of complex shapes and environments. This survey provides a comprehensive review of key backbone architectures used for 3D generation, including autoencoders, variational autoencoders (VAEs), generative adversarial networks (GANs), autoregressive models, diffusion models, normalizing flows, attention-based models, CLIP-guided models, and procedural generation techniques. We explore each model’s role in 3D generation, highlighting their strengths—such as the precision of VAEs, the realism of GANs, the stability of diffusion models, and the scalability of procedural methods—alongside their limitations, such as training instability, high computational costs, and the difficulty in handling multi-modal data. Additionally, we discuss the increasing relevance of attention-enhanced models and the integration of text-based CLIP supervision for improved semantic alignment in 3D outputs. The survey concludes with an analysis of open challenges, including balancing efficiency with expressiveness, managing training complexity, and addressing dataset limitations. It also identifies future research directions, such as few-shot learning, hybrid architectures, and neural-symbolic approaches, which promise to advance the field by improving the generalization and versatility of 3D generation models. This paper aims to guide researchers and practitioners in navigating the evolving landscape of 3D generative methods and inspire new innovations in the creation of realistic, high-quality 3D content.
Smart Agriculture Practices for Climate Change Relief: Insights from Smallholder Farmers in Bushbuckridge, South Africa
Authors: Agholor Isaac Azikiwe , Sithole Moses Zakhele , Morepje Mishal Trevor , Ndlovu Shalia Matilda , Msweli Nomzamo Sharon , Thabane Variety Nkateko , Mgwenya Lethu Inneth
Published: October 2024

Climate Smart Agriculture (CSA) summarizes an expansion of existing sustainable agricultural intensification approach tailored appropriately to reduce the enduring constraints posed by climatic change. Notwithstanding the importance of CSA, the conceptual underpinnings are often left uncertain leading to disbelief as to practical realization and operationalization of the concept of CSA in South Africa. The study examined smart practices for climate mitigation and drew insights from smallholder farmers in Bushbuckridge, South Africa. The objectives of the study were: i) to investigate the determinants of adopting local CSA resilience strategies and ii) identify constraints of adoption of CSA. Structured and semi-structured questionnaires were used to collect data from the respondents. The sample size of 255 was obtained from the population of 750 farmers involved in crops and livestock production in the area. One way ANOVA was employed to determine the mean variance of sampled population. The study used logistic regression to model the determinants of decision making. Results show that the following variables influenced adoption decisions making process: gender (p-value = 0.003); age (p-value = 0.039); farm size (p-value = 0.000); household size (p-value = 0.001); marital status (p-value = 0.008); level of education (P-value = 0.000); support received (p-value = 0.041) and extension services (p-value = 0.001). Insights into the challenges of smallholder farmers in accepting climate smart resilience strategies were highlighted. The paper concluded that smallholder farmers require support to improve farming constraints. It was also recommended that the government should give support by encouraging farmers and investing in farm infrastructures correlated to CSA practice. A favourable policy discourse to encourage the use of CSA must be considered by the government.
The Role Of Psychological Variables In Predicting Rehabilitation Outcomes After Spinal Cord Injury: An Artificial Neural Networks Study
Authors: Mascanzoni Marta , Luciani Alessia , Tamburella Federica , Iosa Marco , Lena Emanuela , Di Fonzo Sergio , Pisani Valerio , Di Lucente Lina , Caretti Vincenzo , Sideli Lucia , Cuzzocrea Gaia , Scivoletto Giorgio
Published: October 2024

Background: Accurate prediction of neurorehabilitation outcomes following Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) is crucial for optimizing healthcare resource allocation and improving rehabilitation strategies. Artificial neural networks (ANNs) may identify complex prognostic factors in patients with SCI. However, psychological variables’ influence on rehabilitation outcomes remains underexplored, despite their potential impact on re-covery success.
Materials and Methods: A cohort of 303 patients with SCI was analyzed with an ANN model that employed 17 input variables, structured into two hidden layers and a single output node. Clinical and psychological data were integrated to predict functional outcomes, measured by the Spinal Cord Independence Measure (SCIM) at discharge. Paired Wilcoxon tests evaluated pre-post differences, and linear regression assessed correlation, with Pearson’s coefficient and Root Mean Square Error calculated.
Results: Significant improvements in SCIM scores were observed (21.8 ± 15.8 at admission vs. 57.4 ± 22.5 at discharge, p < 0.001). The model assigned the highest predictive weight to SCIM at admission (10.3%), while psychological factors accounted for 36.3%, increasing to 40.9% in traumatic SCI cases. Anxiety and de-pression were the most influential psychological predictors. Correlation between predicted and actual SCIM scores was R=0.794 for the entire sample and R=0.940 for traumatic cases.
Conclusion: ANN model demonstrated strong impact, especially for traumatic SCI, of psychological factors on functional outcomes. Anxiety and depression emerged as dominant negative predictors, conversely self-esteem and emotional regulation functioned as protective factors increasing functional outcomes. These findings support the integration of psychological assessments into predictive models to enhance accuracy in SCI rehabilitation outcomes.
Genetic Blueprints in Lung Cancer: Foundations for Targeted Therapies
Authors: Dan Andra , Burtavel Livia-Malina , Coman Madalin-Codrut , Focsa Ina Ofelia , Duta-Ion Simona , Juganaru Ioana-Ruxandra , Zaruha Andra-Giorgiana , Strugari Irina-Maria , Hotinceanu Iulian Andrei , Codreanu Patricia-Christina , Bohiltea Laurentiu-Camil , Rădoi Viorica Elena
Published: October 2024

This article provides a comprehensive overview of lung cancer from a genetic perspective, emphasizing the molecular pathways involved in its pathogenesis. This review presents the genetic syndromes and key genomic variations, including alterations and instabilities, that contribute to tumor development and progression. Furthermore, advancements in genomic testing, such as liquid biopsy, are explored, highlighting their utility in early diagnosis, prognostic evaluation, and personalized treatment strategies. The role of biomarkers in informing therapeutic decisions and optimizing patient outcomes is also examined, offering insights into their potential to refine clinical interventions. This review aims to enrich the understanding of the genetic landscape of lung cancer, providing insights that may lead to improved diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.
Guardians of the Genome: Iron-Sulfur Proteins in the Nucleus
Authors: Novoa-Aponte Lorena , Leon-Torres Andres , Philpott Caroline C.
Published: October 2024

Iron-sulfur (Fe-S) clusters are essential cofactors found in many proteins in the mitochondria, cytosol, and nucleus of the cell. These versatile cofactors may undergo reversible oxidation-reduction reactions to enable electron transfers; they may be structural and confer stability to a folded protein; they may be regulatory and transduce an iron signal that alters the function or stability of a recipient protein. Of the nearly 70 proteins described in mammalian cells that bind Fe-S clusters, about half localize exclusively or partially to the nucleus, where they are required for DNA replication and repair, telomere maintenance, transcription, mitosis, and cell cycle control. Most nuclear Fe-S cluster proteins interact with DNA, including DNA polymerases, primase, helicases, and glycosylases. However, the specific roles of the clusters in the enzymatic activities of these proteins and their interplay with DNA remain a matter of debate. Defects in the metallation of nuclear Fe-S proteins cause genome instability and alter the regulation of cell division and proliferation, which are hallmarks of various genetic diseases and cancers. Here, we provide an inventory of the nuclear Fe-S cluster binding proteins and discuss cluster types, binding sites, the process of cluster acquisition, and potential roles of the cluster in the function of the proteins. However, many questions remain unresolved. We highlight critical gaps in our understanding of cluster delivery to nuclear client proteins, the potential for cluster repair, and the mechanistic roles that clusters play in these enzymes. Taken together, this review brings the focus to the nucleus of the human cell as a hotspot for Fe-S cluster proteins and aims to inspire new research in the roles of iron in DNA metabolism and the maintenance of genome integrity.
To the theory of turbulent dynamo in magnetised weakly compressible astro-geophysical objects
Authors: Kolesnichenko Aleksandr Vladimirovich
Published: October 2024

We discuss a phenomenological self-consistent model of a turbulent magnetized conducting fluid for mean flow and magnetic field in geophysical and astrophysical contexts. This model is designed to study spirality and dynamo effect in the study of astro-geophysical magnetic fields. It is believed that the very existence of cosmic magnetic fields is largely explained by the chirality of background turbulence, the simplest measure of which is the non-vanishing helicity of small-scale turbulence. The mean velocity and magnetic fields are modelled using averaged MHD -equations and phenomenological differential equations for the four bulk turbulence quantities (hydro magnetic turbulent energy, magnetic and cross helicity and residual helicity). These model equations, combined with the mean-field equations, allow the most complete construction of a self-consistent model of the turbulent dynamo. These problems and open questions are considered, especially those concerning the model transport equations for the determination of the alpha effect in astrophysical magnetic fields.
The presented work is mainly aimed at modelling rotation effects in hydro magnetic turbulent flows of spiral space and thermonuclear plasma.
Transforming learning outcomes: Impact of project-based learning on digestive system mastery
Authors: Anwar Yenny , Meilinda M , Rosfa Asti Zuhana
Published: October 2024

One of the learning models that is currently strongly advised to be used in the learning process is Project Based Learning (PJBL). The purpose of this study is to ascertain how PJBL affects students' learning outcomes in the digestive system.  Students (n=61) from Muara Enim, Indonesia's class XI Science public senior high school served as the research subjects. A quasi-experimental design with a non-equivalent control group is the study methodology employed. Project assignments, surveys, and observation sheets served as the tools. The independent sample t-test in the statistical program for social science 28 (SPSS version 28) was used to assess learning outcomes data. With a gain of 33.6 and n-gain of 0.63, the study's findings show that using the PjBL learning paradigm enhances students' learning outcomes. PjBl can increase motivation, and as it uses real-world challenges, strong curiosity will impact learning outcomes.
Enhancing high school human evolution education: Harnessing “sapiens: a brief history of humankind” as an effective learning resource
Authors: Handziko Rio Christy , Widiatmika Dippya Kharisma
Published: October 2024

Understanding human evolution can be challenging for students and may lead to misconceptions, often stemming from the learning materials employed. Current learning resources commonly include textbooks, images, and the internet. The popular science book "Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind" offers potential as an educational tool for teaching human evolution. This study aims to assess the suitability of "Sapiens" for high school Biology education and its potential as a resource for teaching human evolution in senior high school. Employing a qualitative descriptive method with a content analysis approach, data is gathered through documentation techniques. Primary data is derived from the documentation and content analysis of "Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind." Data analysis follows the model proposed by Miles and Huberman (1983), encompassing data reduction, presentation, and conclusion drawing. The findings indicate that the book effectively addresses 7 out of 9 (77.78%) sub-topics of human evolution commonly taught in high school Biology. Importantly, the book replaces outdated terms like Pithecantropus and Megantropus paleojavanicus, found in traditional textbooks. Moreover, the book fulfills the five criteria for selecting learning resources as outlined by Djohar (1987). Consequently, "Sapiens" can serve as a valuable learning resource for high school Biology, particularly regarding the study of human evolution.
The development of elema 2.0 for the invertebrate zoology course on the phylum arthropoda topic
Authors: Adam Chaidir , Haryono Agus , Araina Elga , Savitri Shanty
Published: October 2024

Currently, technology has become an inseparable part of education and learning. Various digital learning tools have been developed and widely used in the classroom. eLEMA (electronic learning materials) was developed as a mobile application that supports learning in the Invertebrate Zoology courses at the Biology Education Program, University of Palangka Raya. At that time, eLEMA was developed to meet the need for electronic learning materials for online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. Along with the rapid development of technology in recent years, eLEMA needs to be developed further for updates. This research aims to develop eLEMA 2.0 for the Invertebrate Zoology course. This study is a research and development (R & D) using Hannafin & Peck development model to develop eLEMA 2.0 for the Invertebrate Zoology course on the Phylum Arthropoda topic. The development product is the eLEMA 2.0 application for lectures on the Phylum Arthropoda topic in the Invertebrate Zoology course with improvements to the user interface and additional features that support participatory learning and student-centered learning. The results of trials and validation show that all pages and content in this application were successfully opened without any disturbing errors. These results indicate that the development product is feasible to be implemented in the classroom.
The correlation between self-efficacy, self-confidence, and metacognitive skills on biology learning outcomes of student’s high school
Authors: Rahmawati  , Daud Firdaus , Bahri Arsad
Published: October 2024

metacognitive skills and learning outcomes of class . This research is an ex-post facto type of quantitative research with data collection carried out using self-efficacy, self-confidence and metacognitive skills questionnaires, as well as first semester Biology cognitive learning scores. The sample determination method used is the Area Proportional Random Sampling technique, so the research sample a total of 301 students and the research population was all class XI students of SMAN Polewali Mandar Regency for the 2023/2024 academic year. The data was analyzed descriptively and inferentially. The results of the research show that the self-efficacy, metacognitive skills and learning outcomes of students are in the medium category, and the self-confidence of students is in the high category, and there is a fairly strong relationship between self-efficacy and student learning outcomes, a very strong relationship between self-confidence and learning outcomes, a strong relationship between metacognitive skills and learning outcomes, and a very strong relationship between self-efficacy, self-confidence, and metacognitive skills and student learning outcomes. As for future researchers, it is hoped that they will use more variables and the results of this study are not in accordance with Bandura's theory that self-efficacy is always directly proportional to self-confidence, so it is necessary to study further the factors that influence students' self-confidence.
Practicality and effectivity of figma-ctllm on poaceae diversity topic in developing critical thinking skills
Authors: Yudhistian  , Cintamulya Imas
Published: October 2024

Creating creative, innovative, and effective learning to improve critical thinking skills along with the rapid development of ICT is a challenge for educators. Therefore, Figma CTL Learning Media (Figma-CTLLM) is a solution to the problem of answering the importance of developing learning media integrated with ICT while developing students' critical thinking skills. This study aims to describe the practicality of Figma-CTLLM on Poaceae diversity in developing critical thinking skills and to describe the effectiveness of Figma-CTLLM on the topic of Poaceae diversity seen from critical thinking skills and student responses. This type of research is Research and Development (R&D) research using the 4D model method (Define, Design, Develop and Disseminate). The research subjects consisted of 26 students. The research instruments were observation sheets to measure the implementation of Figma-CTLLM, CTS test questions sheets and questionnaires to determine student responses. The data analysis technique was quantitatively descriptive by calculating the percentage to describe the practicality and effectiveness of Figma-CTLLM implementation in developing CTS. The results of the analysis of the practicality test of Figma-CTLLM implementation in learning are in the category of very practical. The effectiveness test results were declared very effective by acquiring the average CTS measurement and the average student response assessment. Based on the study's results, the implementation of Figma-CTLLM in learning the diversity of Poaceae has met the criteria of practicality and effectiveness.
Exploring the impact of intelligence quotient on mastery of biodiversity through e-modules
Authors: Oktaviani Listiawati , Adisyahputra  , Isfaeni Hanum
Published: October 2024

E-modules can facilitate student understanding of complex biological concepts, including biodiversity, but their effectiveness also depends on individual student abilities. One significant factor influencing this success is the students' intelligence quotient, which affects how they process and comprehend complex information. This research aims to determine the relationship between intelligence quotient with mastery of biodiversity material using e-modules. The method used in this research is a quantitative descriptive method with correlation studies. The sample was taken from as many as 177 students from SMAN in Tangerang City was collected using multistage random sampling technique. To assess these skills, a test instrument in the form of multiple-choice questions is used. The prerequisite test shows that the data is normally distributed, the data is homogeneous, the data is linear, the data is free from symptoms of heteroscedasticity, the data is not multicollinearity, and the data is free from symptoms of autocorrelation. Through testing the hypothesis, the equation Ŷ = 41.268 + 0.580X1 is obtained. The correlation coefficient obtained was 0.881, which means there is a very strong relationship. . Based on this research, it can be concluded that there is a positive relationship between intelligence quotient, reading comprehension ability, and mastery of biodiversity material using e-modules.
Distal Radioulnar Synostosis Following Greenstick Fracture of the Ulnar Diaphysis
Authors: Kell David M. , Chang Benjamin , Shah Apurva S. , Williams Brendan A.
Published: October 2024

Case:

We discuss a 16-year-old adolescent boy presenting with a minimally displaced greenstick fracture of the distal third ulnar diaphysis sustained during a fall playing football. Initial treatment consisted of in situ casting followed by removable forearm splinting. The patient returned 3 months postinjury with complete forearm motion loss. Imaging demonstrated a post-traumatic radioulnar synostosis. Surgical management of the synostosis restored forearm motion without recurrence.

Conclusion:

Clinicians should be aware of this atypical presentation of a radioulnar synostosis when evaluating stiffness in the post-treatment setting even for fractures that are minimally displaced and do not require reduction or surgery.
Relationship Between Sport Specialization and Quality of Life in Young Female Dancers
Authors: Sugimoto Dai , Gearhart Martha G , Quinn Bridget J , Griffith Kelsey L , Stracciolini Andrea
Published: October 2024

OBJECTIVE: To compare quality of life (QoL) between specialized and non-specialized young female dancers. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey design was used. Young female dancers between the ages of 8–17 years completed the validated pediatric QoL inventory (PedsQL 4.0) and answered
the following sport specialization questions: 1) Do you solely perform dance?, 2) Did you quit other sports to focus on dance?, and 3) Do you participate in dance more than 8 months per year? Dancers who responded “yes” to all 3 questions were classified as specialized, while dancers
who answered “no” to any of the 3 questions were classified as non-specialized. PedsQL 4.0 subscales (physical, psychosocial, emotional, social, and school) and total scores were compared between specialized and non-specialized dancers using the Mann-Whitney U test with p<0.05
considered statistically significant. As subgroup analyses, the comparisons were repeated with dancers under 12 years (≤12 years) and over 13 years (≥13 years) old. RESULTS: A total of 72 young female dancers were included in the final analysis. The mean age was 12.5 (SD 2.5) years.
No QoL differences were found in any subscale or total scores when comparing specialized and non-specialized dancers. However, differences were detected in subgroup analyses. In the dancers ≤12 years, psychosocial and total scores were higher in specialized dancers (57.9%, n=22) compared
to non-specialized dancers (42.1%, n=16) (psychosocial p=0.045; total p=0.035). Conversely, in the dancers ≥13 years, psychosocial, emotional, and total scores were lower for specialized dancers (88.2%, n=30) compared to non-specialized dancers (11.8%, n=4) (psychosocial p=0.024; emotional
p=0.049; total p=0.024). CONCLUSION: Our study found that QoL did not differ by sport specialization status when the entire sample was analyzed. However, in subgroup analysis, QoL was higher in specialized dancers in the ≤12 years than non-specialized dancers. Conversely, specialized dancers
≥13 years showed lower QoL than non-specialized dancers. Further studies are necessary to further investigate the difference in QoL when comparing younger to relatively older adolescent female dancers.
Expandable Versus Static Cages for Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion in Degenerative Lumbar Spondylosis
Authors: Wu Meng-Ting
Published: October 2024

Objective: Expandable cages have been used in lumbar interbody fusion in recent years. These cages allow a customizable fit within the intervertebral space, enabling surgeons to restore alignment and disc height. Various types of expandable cages are currently available. However, the benefits of expandable titanium cages remain unclear, with limited evidence.Methods: This prospective, single-center cohort study enrolled patients undergoing transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion with expandable or static cages by a single surgeon. Titanium expandable cages were used in the intervention group, while polyetheretherketone static cages were applied in the control group. The clinical and radiological outcomes were evaluated preoperatively and at 1, 3, and 6 months postoperatively. The fusion rate assessed by dynamic radiography was significantly higher for the expandable cage group than in the static cage group at a 6-month follow-up (95% vs. 65%). The radiological outcomes, including disc height index, segmental lordosis, and lumbar lordosis, were similar in the 2 groups. There was no significant difference in the subsidence rate.Results: There were 20 patients in each group, with similar patient characteristics. The visual analogue scales for back and leg pain significantly improved in both groups. There were no significant differences between the groups in clinical outcomes.Conclusion: The expanded cages led to comparable outcomes. The subsidence rate of the titanium expandable cages was similar to that of the static cages. The newly designed expandable cage may accelerate fusion by reducing iatrogenic injuries to the endplate.
Posterior Endoscopic Cervical Discectomy
Authors: Kim Hyeun Sung , Hwang Yoon Ha
Published: October 2024

Cervical radiculopathy is a prevalent disorder of the cervical spine. With advances in minimally invasive surgery, posterior cervical foraminotomy (PCF) has been conducted using an endoscopic system, demonstrating favorable clinical outcomes. Posterior endoscopic cervical foraminotomy or posterior endoscopic cervical discectomy could reduce blood loss, operating time, and hospital stay compared to conventional open PCF. We performed a full-endoscopic cervical approach employing one portal with integrated working and viewing channels. When conducting foraminotomy and discectomy, we simultaneously applied a partial pediculotomy, partial vertebrotomy approach to minimize neural retraction and ensure sufficient decompression of osseous structures. The authors illustrate the surgical technique of posterior endoscopic cervical foraminotomy with discectomy.
Biportal Endoscopic Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion: The Double-Cage Technique
Authors: Pao Jwo-Luen
Published: October 2024

Biportal endoscopic transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (BETLIF) is a novel spinal fusion procedure using the unilateral biportal endoscopic technique. The hydrostatic pressure of saline irrigation suppresses bleeding, enabling us to perform delicate surgery in a crystal-clear and magnified surgical field with almost no bleeding. Adequate neural decompression, disc space preparation, and bony endplate preservation can be achieved safely. The sturdy endplate reduces the incidence of cage subsidence and provides good initial stability. We use 2 interbody fusion cages and a large amount of bone graft to promote fusion. Reduction of the spondylolisthesis can also be achieved using a modern pedicle screw system. This article presents a step-by-step demonstration of the BETLIF technique in a 68-year-old patient with degenerative scoliosis and spondylolisthesis at L4-5, including his clinical presentation and treatment results. BETLIF is a safe, effective, and revolutionary minimally invasive solution for spinal fusion. Its advantages include a magnificent surgical field, direct decompression, minimum blood loss, radical discectomy, meticulous endplate preparation, cage insertion under direct visual control, and excellent treatment results with a high fusion rate and few complications.
Investigating Gene Expression Patterns in Dementia Patients:
A Potential Early Biomarker for Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Phetchrungruengphol Ydathip
Published: October 2024

Dementia is a severe neurodegenerative disorder commonly found in adults over 70 years of age. Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most prevalent type of dementia and currently has no therapeutic pathway able to effectively slow down or reverse progression of the disease. The insidious onset of AD manifests over 15 years and often, AD is left undiagnosed until the very end. This research aims to search for combinations of RNA-sequencing (RNAseq) gene expression patterns that can act as early biomarkers for AD. Provided by the Allen Brain Institute, this paper uses RNAseq expression values of 14 genes collected from 107 post-mortem brains in the hippocampus (HIP) and the forebrain white matter (FWM). Grouped according to dementia status, values were correlated and graphed against age, CERAD, NIA-Reagan scores and Braak stages. Qualitative deductions were initially made from bar graphs, in which, if concluded worthy of investigation, quantitative data analyses using Pearson’s correlation coefficient and T-tests were then conducted. From the obtained information, aging, dementia and brain area effects were taken and analyzed. Unexpectedly, genes with neuroprotective roles or are involved in growth of cells exhibited higher expression as age increases in dementia patients. The implications of overexpression of genes in dementia and AD may be a new topic worthy of further research for better understanding of such disorders. Additionally, majority of the notable trends were found in the FWM, the area of the brain often overlooked in research involving neurodegenerative diseases. Identification and analyses of these patterns offer means to investigate the subject from new angles. By using obtained information on potential early biomarkers to form parameters for larger and more advanced studies in this field, developing a full-fledged clinical practice for early diagnosis of AD seems attainable.
Outputs from a model of co-research with older care-experienced people in Sweden to advance eldercare services
Authors: Wallcook Sarah , Dohrn Ing-Mari , Dahlkvist Ulla , Domeij Yvonne , Green Kerstin , Isaksson Gigi , Goliath Ida
Published: October 2024

Background: Within the contemporary policy turn towards co-production and co-research in Sweden, older people, practitioners and researchers alike have expressed uncertainty about how to undertake co-research. Moreover, scepticism persists about the merits and contributions of co-research and co-production to research and service development. In this paper, we aim to describe a co-research model developed with older care-experienced lay co-researchers and explore the utility of our model’s outcomes to social care research and practice.
Method: In a Participatory Action Research project we established a team of three co-researchers by professional experience and eight lay co-researchers by lived experience who were over age 75. Our team undertook a complete study cycle from inception and funding through to knowledge exchange and dissemination. Our process lasted one year and comprised three phases: the group alone establishing collective knowledge, testing knowledge in peer interviews with acquaintances, exchanging knowledge in events with multi-sector actors. We generated and analysed data concurrently in fortnightly workshops and round-table meetings using procedures inspired by framework analysis to produce themes illustrated by vignettes.
Findings: We highlight our co-research model’s utility to social research, policy and practice under three themes. Expressly, how our approach 1) reaches and engages older people who are isolated at home, 2) generates out-of-the box thinking and innovative solutions for service development and research, 3) recognizes and benefits from older people’s authentic experience and knowledge. We critically reflect upon these three themes and the conditions that lead towards or away from the adoption of key co-creation principles.
Conclusions: Public services and research and development units working in the interests of older people can take inspiration from our co-research model when seeking to meet the challenges brought by new reforms towards closer community involvement. Despite messiness in the process, integrating and embedding principled co-research and co-production can bring clarity and structure to the issues that matter most to older people, and draw organisations closer to the communities they serve.
Junior Doctors’ Perception of Their Teaching Role and Responsibilities as Medical Teachers of Medical Students
Authors: Uprety Bandana
Published: October 2024

Background:
Junior doctors play a pivotal role in the education of medical students. This study aims to explore junior doctors' perceptions of their teaching responsibilities and experiences in delivering medical education.
Methods
A total of ten junior doctors, from Foundation Year 1 (FY1) to Core Medical Trainee 2 (CT2), were recruited from a teaching hospital in Southeast London. Semi-structured, face-to-face interviews were conducted, allowing participants to discuss specific aspects of their teaching roles. Interviews were audio-recorded with consent, transcribed, coded, and analysed thematically. The study received ethical approval from the Research Ethics Committee of King’s College Hospital, London, and Health Authority Approval. Participation was voluntary, following an invitation via email with an attached Participant Information Sheet. Potential participants were given the opportunity to ask questions directly or via email, and those who chose to participate provided written informed consent. Data confidentiality and participant anonymity were strictly maintained.
Result
Junior doctors perceive their teaching roles in three main capacities: as Information Providers, Student Assessors, and Leaders/Managers. An analysis based on five dimensions of teaching—planning, presentation, environment, evaluation, and pedagogy—highlights a critical need for faculty development, designated teaching time, and institutional support. Although junior doctors express a strong commitment to teaching, they encounter substantial barriers, including heavy clinical workloads and insufficient support, often relying on personal experience and observation to develop their teaching skills.
Conclusion
While the General Medical Council (GMC) expects junior doctors to engage in teaching medical students, this study reveals considerable variability in their perceptions and understanding of this role. These variations are predominantly influenced by the level of organizational support and the amount of teacher training provided. Despite the GMC’s recommendations, ongoing challenges continue to impede the delivery of high-quality teaching. The findings raise concerns regarding the practicality and attainability of the GMC's standards. The study further questions whether the responsibility for preparing junior doctors for their teaching roles should rest with NHS Trusts or Medical Colleges, emphasizing the need for clearer guidelines and enhanced support systems to improve teaching effectiveness.
Green synthesis of multifunctional from cinnamon (cinnamomum verum) extract-functionalised CdS nanoparticles for In-vitro biomedical, photocatalytic degradation and photoelectrochemical applications
Authors: Jarhad Komal V. R. , Pawanoji Aniket A. , Parab Pranali S. S. , Pawar Amol S.
Published: October 2024

Cadmium sulphide nanoparticles (CdS NPs), renowned for their tuneable bandgap, exhibit significant potential for photochemical applications. A simple, green, and cost-effective synthesis approach is quite desirable to harness their full potential. With this prospect, we present the green synthesis of CdS NPs using cinnamon extract which is rich in polyphenols and flavonoids, as a reducing and stabilizing agent. The as-synthesized NPs were characterized with the aid of diverse characterization techniques. The study also attempts to understand the role of CdS NPs as photocatalytic material for methylene blue (MB) dye degradation in both UV irradiation and natural sunlight. Notably, 91% degradation was achieved within 90 minutes under UV light in a self-fabricated photoreactor setup, and 70 minutes under direct sunlight. Tauc plot also revealed that the catalyst promoted an indirect electron transfer pathway. Further, the semiconductor properties were evaluated using photoelectrochemical (PEC) studies, demonstrating charge transport dynamics. Additionally, the cytotoxicity of the NPs was also explored using in vitro investigations on human breast cancer cell line, revealing promising anticancer properties. Biocompatibility test on normal cells, and antibacterial assays were also studies. This comprehensive investigation underscores the applicability of green-synthesised CdS NPs in diverse field.
Error Analysis Study for Electron Linear Accelerator Optimized Using Multi Objective Genetic Algorithm
Authors: kim Chanmi , Min Chang-Ki , Byeon Woo Jun , Kim Eun-San , Park Seong Hee , Park Chong Shik
Published: October 2024

The injector system of 4th generation synchrotron radiation accelerators should be optimally designed to produce a good quality beam. In the previous study, we used Multi-Objective Genetic Algorithm (MOGA) to optimize the injector system parameters to meet the beam requirements. To ensure that the injector operation parameters optimized by MOGA fall within practical ranges, we conducted an error analysis. The injector, composed of RF cavities and magnets, includes an analysis of potential errors in RF cavity phase and gradient, and magnet strengths across three distinct steps. First, we considered errors that could occur during operation, such as input phases of RF cavities and strengths of cavities and magnets. Second, we considered installation errors, including rotation errors of devices. Lastly, we simulated scenarios where all errors occur simultaneously. The simulation results showed that even when errors occurred, the beam quality remained within our acceptable range. Through this error analysis, we confirmed that the linac operation parameters optimized by MOGA are indeed practical and usable.
Precise Masses Reveal that TOI-700 c is Low Density and TOI-700 d is Rocky
Authors: Gilbert Emily , Burt Jennifer , Barragán Oscar , Siegel Jared , Mascareño Alejandro Suárez , Silva André , Luque Rafael , Rogers James , Lee Eve , Lopez Eric , Vanderburg Andrew , Clement Matthew , Youngblood Allison , Mamajek Eric , Sousa Sergio , Cameron Andrew Collier , Rodriguez Joey , Martin David , Arney Giada , Barclay Thomas , Becker Juliette , Colon Knicole , Eisner Nora , Halverson Samuel , Hord Benjamin , Kane Stephen , Kreidberg L. , Morley Caroline , Mortier Annelies , Nielsen Louise , Quintana Elisa , Schlieder Joshua , Suissa Gabrielle , Triaud Amaury , Trifonov Trifon , Eylen V Van
Published: October 2024

The search for life in the Universe has a significant focus on M dwarf stars, as they are the most common stellar type, and their small sizes and low masses make it easier to detect and characterize small, temperate planets. However, M dwarfs, especially those with the lowest masses, emit frequent flares for long portions of their lifetimes that may erode planetary atmospheres. Demographic studies have shown that planets the size of Earth in the Habitable Zone — the region where liquid water could likely exist on planetary surfaces — are common. But only a handful of such worlds have been measured to be rocky, and all of them orbit active, lower-mass M-dwarfs, so the survival of their atmospheres is questionable. Here, we report new exoplanet mass measurements from radial velocity observations with the VLT/ESPRESSO spectrograph of TOI-700, a relatively quiet, early M dwarf star that hosts 4 small planets, including 2 in the star's Habitable Zone. We find that TOI-700 c (2.65 R_Earth) is a low-mass (2.5 M_Earth) planet, which must have a hydrogen/helium dominated atmosphere given its low bulk density (0.73 g/cc). Furthermore, the small (1.16 R_Earth), Habitable Zone planet, TOI-700 d, has a mass of 2.4 M_Earth, implying a rocky composition. Given that TOI-700 c and d have similar masses, the presence of TOI-700 c, a puffy sub-Neptune, orbiting interior to the Habitable Zone planets, implies that d might be able to maintain a heavier, secondary atmosphere as these planets were subjected to the same stellar history.
The Fireweed Project: Recommendations for Improving Abortion Access and Experiences by and for Indigenous Peoples in Canada
Authors: Monchalin Renée , Hardy Shannon , Paul Willow , Wells Madison , Antoine-Allan Emma , Pruder Harlie , Crane Piyêsiw , Ferguson Créa , Jubinville Danette , Logie Carmen H. , Munro Sarah , Pruder Emily , Piñán Astrid V. Pérez
Published: October 2024

Background
Indigenous Peoples in Canada face significant barriers to accessing abortion services, attributed to colonial policies, systemic racism, and geographic isolation. Despite the presence of intergenerational reproductive knowledge, barriers persist. The Fireweed Project seeks to address barriers by gathering recommendations from Indigenous abortion seekers to improve access and experiences.
Methods
Forty-one-on-one conversations were conducted with Indigenous abortion seekers across Canada. Data was analyzed using the DEPICT participatory qualitative analysis model, ensuring that the voices of Indigenous communities were central to the process. The Indigenous Gender-Based Analysis Plus (IGBA+) framework further informed analysis, considering intersections of race, gender, and socio-economic status.
Results
Six key themes emerged from the data, including the need for Indigenous-led reproductive health services, ongoing cultural safety training for healthcare providers, enhanced follow-up and support services, and dismantling abortion stigma within Indigenous communities. Participants also recommended expanding abortion education in schools and improving maternal-child health supports through policy change.
Conclusion
This study highlights the importance of centering Indigenous voices in the improvement of abortion services. Implementing the recommendations from Indigenous abortion seekers can help dismantle systemic barriers and improve cultural safety and accessibility of care. These findings contribute to ongoing efforts to ensure equitable reproductive health services for Indigenous communities in Canada.