bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimization of tensile strength in 3D printed PLA parts via meta-heuristic approaches: a comparative study
Authors: Jatti Vijaykumar S. , Tamboli Shahid , Shaikh Sarfaraj , Solke Nitin S. , Gulia Vikas , Jatti Vinaykumar S. , Khedkar Nitin K. , Salunkhe Sachin , Pagáč Marek , Abouel Nasr Emad S.
Published: January 2024

This research focuses on the relationship between the tensile strength of PLA material and several 3D printing parameters, such as infill density, layer height, print speed, and extrusion temperature, utilizing the Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) method of Additive Manufacturing (AM). Tensile strength of the samples was determined in compliance with ASTM D638 standard, and the experiments were carried out according to a planned arrangement. Six distinct methods were used to optimize the tensile strength: Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO), Teaching Learning Based Optimization (TLBO), Genetic Algorithm (GA), Simulated Annealing (SA), and Cohort Intelligence (CI). Several runs of the optimization methods demonstrated their consistency in producing the same values of tensile strength, indicating their reliability. The optimization results showed that JAYA performed better than the other algorithms, resulting in a material with the maximum tensile strength of 55.475 N/mm2. Validation experiments were carried out to confirm the efficacy of these algorithms. The results showed that the ideal input parameters produced tensile strength values that closely matched the anticipated values with a low percentage error. The benefits of applying these algorithms to improve the tensile strength of PLA materials for 3D printing are demonstrated by this study, which also offers insightful information about how to optimize FDM procedures.
Preferences for childbirth delivery and pain relief methods among pregnant women in Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Tham Thi , Nguyen Long Hoang , Nguyen Ha Thu Thi , Dam Vu Anh Trong , Vu Thuc Minh Thi , Latkin Carl A. , Zhang Melvyn W. B. , Ho Roger C. M. , Ho Cyrus S. H.
Published: January 2024

Background

Understanding childbirth delivery and pain relief method preferences is important as a part of the shared decision-making process between pregnant women and health professionals. This study aimed to examine the preferences for childbirth delivery modes and pain relief methods and factors related to these preferences among pregnant women in Vietnam.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey on pregnant women was conducted in two obstetrics hospitals in Vietnam. Face-to-face interviews using a structured questionnaire were performed to collect information about sociodemographic characteristics, pregnancy characteristics, preferences for different childbirth delivery modes, and pain relief methods. Multivariate logistic regression was employed for determining associated factors with the preferences.

Results

Of 576 pregnant women, 34% of participants preferred cesarean section. Most of the sample did not have any preferences for specific pharmacological pain relief methods (70.1%), while support from partner/relatives was the most preferable non-pharmacological method (61.3%), following by water birth (11.1%) and acupuncture (9.9%). Desire to have another baby, relatives’ experience, selection date of birth, and instrumental social support were major drivers of the cesarean section selection. This preference was an important factor in the preference for pharmacological pain relief. Meanwhile, high levels of informational and emotional support were associated with non-pharmacological method preference.

Conclusion

This study highlighted a high preference rate for cesarean section in urban pregnant women in Vietnam. Holistic approaches from family, health facility, and policy should be performed to diminish the cesarean rate preference and promote the use of non-pharmacological pain relief methods during birth.
Genomic surveillance of extended-spectrum cephalosporin-resistant Escherichia coli isolated from poultry in the UK from 2016 to 2020
Authors: Duggett Nicholas , AbuOun Manal , Stubberfield Emma , Turner Olivia , Randall Luke , Horton Robert , Nunez-Garcia Javier , Gates Daisy , Chanter Jeremy , Teale Chris , Anjum Muna F.
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Surveillance is vital for monitoring the increasing risk of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in bacteria leading to failures in humans and animals to treat infections. In a One Health context, AMR bacteria from livestock and food can transfer through the food chain to humans, and vice versa, which can be characterized in detail through genomics. We investigated the critical aspects of AMR and the dynamics of AMR in poultry in the UK.

Methods

In this study, we performed whole genome sequencing for genomic characterization of 761 extended-spectrum cephalosporinases (ESCs) harboring Escherichia coli isolated from poultry caeca and meat through EU harmonized monitoring of AMR in zoonotic and commensal bacteria from 2016 and 2018 and UK national monitoring in 2020.

Results

The most common ESC in 2016 and 2018 was blaCTX-M-1; however, 2020 had a greater diversity of ESCs with blaCTX-M-55 dominant in chickens and blaCTX-M-15 more prevalent in turkeys. Co-resistance to sulphonamides, tetracycline, and trimethoprim was widespread, and there were several positive correlations between the sequence types (STs) and ESC genes. We identified certain AMR genotypes and STs that were frequent each year but not as successful in subsequent years, e.g., ST350 harboring blaCTX-M-1, sul2, and tetA-v4.Phylogenetic comparison of isolates prevalent in our panel with global ones from the same STs available in public databases showed that isolates from the UK generally clustered together, suggesting greater within-country than between-country transmission.

Discussion

We conclude that future genomic surveillance of indicator organisms will be invaluable as it will enable detailed comparisons of AMR between and within neighboring countries, potentially identifying the most successful sequence types, plasmids, or emerging threats.
Introducing Region Based Pooling for handling a varied number of EEG channels for deep learning models
Authors: Tveitstøl Thomas , Tveter Mats , Pérez T. Ana S. , Hatlestad-Hall Christoffer , Yazidi Anis , Hammer Hugo L. , Hebold Haraldsen Ira R. J.
Published: January 2024

Introduction

A challenge when applying an artificial intelligence (AI) deep learning (DL) approach to novel electroencephalography (EEG) data, is the DL architecture's lack of adaptability to changing numbers of EEG channels. That is, the number of channels cannot vary neither in the training data, nor upon deployment. Such highly specific hardware constraints put major limitations on the clinical usability and scalability of the DL models.

Methods

In this work, we propose a technique for handling such varied numbers of EEG channels by splitting the EEG montages into distinct regions and merge the channels within the same region to a region representation. The solution is termed Region Based Pooling (RBP). The procedure of splitting the montage into regions is performed repeatedly with different region configurations, to minimize potential loss of information. As RBP maps a varied number of EEG channels to a fixed number of region representations, both current and future DL architectures may apply RBP with ease. To demonstrate and evaluate the adequacy of RBP to handle a varied number of EEG channels, sex classification based solely on EEG was used as a test example. The DL models were trained on 129 channels, and tested on 32, 65, and 129-channels versions of the data using the same channel positions scheme. The baselines for comparison were zero-filling the missing channels and applying spherical spline interpolation. The performances were estimated using 5-fold cross validation.

Results

For the 32-channel system version, the mean AUC values across the folds were: RBP (93.34%), spherical spline interpolation (93.36%), and zero-filling (76.82%). Similarly, on the 65-channel system version, the performances were: RBP (93.66%), spherical spline interpolation (93.50%), and zero-filling (85.58%). Finally, the 129-channel system version produced the following results: RBP (94.68%), spherical spline interpolation (93.86%), and zero-filling (91.92%).

Conclusion

In conclusion, RBP obtained similar results to spherical spline interpolation, and superior results to zero-filling. We encourage further research and development of DL models in the cross-dataset setting, including the use of methods such as RBP and spherical spline interpolation to handle a varied number of EEG channels.
Development and large-scale production of human milk fat analog by fermentation of microalgae
Authors: Zhou Xiaoying , Zhao Xinhua , Parker Leon , Derkach Paul , Correa Mona , Benites Veronica , Miller Roberta , Athanasiadis Dino , Doherty Bryce , Alnozaili Gawharah , Wittenberg Jon , Gates Daniel , Destaillats Frédéric , Rakitsky Walter , Franklin Scott
Published: January 2024

Background

Human milk contains a complex mixture of triacylglycerols (TAG), making it challenging to recreate using common ingredients.

Objective

The study aimed to develop an innovative fermentation technique to produce essential human milk TAG, effectively tackling a significant hurdle in infant nutrition.

Method

An in-depth analysis of the literature has been conducted to identify the specific TAG to be targeted. We used a microalgal oil production platform and a two-step procedure to modify its fatty acid and TAG composition. The palmitic acid (16:0) content has been increased by classical strain improvement techniques, followed by a step involving the expression of a lysophosphatidic acid acyltransferase (LPAAT) sequence capable of esterifying 16:0 specifically at the internal position (sn-2 palmitate) of TAG. Once the strain was stabilized, the fermentation was scaled up in a 50-L reactor to yield several kilograms of biomass. Subsequently, the oil was extracted and refined using standard oil processing conditions. Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry was employed to monitor the TAG profile and the region specificity of 16:0 at the internal position (sn-2 palmitate) of TAG.

Results

The initial strain had a 16:0 level of 25% of total fatty acids, which was increased to 30% by classical strain improvement. Simultaneously, the oleic acid level decreased from 61% to 57% of total fatty acids. Upon expression of an exogenous LPAAT gene, the level of the 16:0 esterified in the internal position of the TAG (sn-2 palmitate) increased by a factor of 10, to reach 73% of total palmitic acid. Consequently, the concentration of oleic acid in the internal position decreased from 81% to 22% of total fatty acids, with TAG analysis confirming that the primary TAG species in the oil was 1,3-dioleoyl-2-palmitoyl-glycerol (OPO). The 50-L-scale fermentation trial confirmed the strain's ability to produce oil with a yield of >150 g of oil per liter of fermentation broth in a timeframe of 5 days, rendering the process scalable for larger-scale industrialization.

Conclusion

We have demonstrated the feasibility of producing a suitable TAG composition that can be effectively integrated into the formulations of infant nutrition in combination with other fats and oils to meet the infant feeding requirements.
PET/CT-aided biopsy of lung lesions enhances diagnostic efficacy, especially for lesions >3cm
Authors: Liu Wangzheng , Ji Bin , Bai Lin , Gao Shi
Published: January 2024

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to compare the diagnostic efficacy of PET/CT-aided CT-guided and routine CT-guided transthoracic needle biopsy for lung lesions.

Methods

A total of 458 patients with suspicious lung lesions were referred for CT-guided biopsy, with 227 patients assigned to the PET/CT group and 231 patients assigned to the CT group. The clinical characteristics and diagnostic yield were compared between the two groups. Furthermore, conducting subgroup analysis to evaluate the differences of diagnostic success or failure between the two groups.

Results

The sensitivity and diagnostic accuracy rate differed significantly (P = 0.035, P = 0.048). In the PET/CT group, the values were 95.7% and 96.3%, respectively, while in the CT group, they were 90.1% and 91.9%. When considering non-diagnostic cases, the overall diagnostic success rate increased markedly in PET/CT group (93.0% vs. 83.1%, P = 0.001). In our subgroup analysis, the PET/CT group demonstrated superiority in detecting lesions larger than 3 cm (OR, 4.81; 95CI%, 2.03 - 11.36), while showing a moderate effect in lesions smaller than 3 cm (OR, 1.09; 95CI%, 0.42 - 2.81). Significant effect modification was observed in large lesions in the PET/CT group (P for interaction = 0.023).

Conclusions

18F-FDG-PET/CT enhances the diagnostic efficacy of CT-guided transthoracic needle biopsy for lung lesions, and the incremental value can be modified by lesion size, particularly when the diameter is larger than 3 cm.
Simplified panicle fertilization is applicable to japonica cultivars, but splits are preferred in indica rice for a higher paddy yield under wheat straw return
Authors: Shu Xiaowei , Zhang Xiaoxiang , Wang Shushen , Fu Tong , Ding Zhouyu , Yang Ying , Wang Zihan , Zhao Shiru , Xu Jiejiao , Zhou Juan , Ju Jing , Huang Jianye , Yao Youli , Wang Yulong , Dong Guichun
Published: January 2024

Introduction

The panicle fertilization strategy for japonica and indica rice under wheat straw return (SR) has not been updated, especially on the elaboration of their impacts on spikelet differentiation and degeneration. This study aimed to verify the hypothesis that SR increases spikelet number by reducing spikelet degeneration and to explore the possibility of simplifying panicle fertilization.

Methods

In three consecutive years, four varieties of japonica and indica rice were field-grown in Yangzhou, Jiangsu Province, China. Six panicle fertilization rates and split treatments were applied to SR and no straw return (NR) conditions.

Results

The results showed that SR promoted rice yield significantly by 3.77%, and the highest yields were obtained under the T2 (split panicle fertilization at the panicle initiation (PI) and spikelet primordium differentiation (SPD) stages) and T1 (panicle fertilization only at the PI stage) treatments, for indica and japonica rice, respectively. Correlation and path analysis revealed that the number of spikelets per panicle was the most attributable to yield variation. SR significantly increased the concentration of alkali hydrolyzable N in the soil 40 days after rice transplantation, significantly increased the nitrogen accumulation per stem (NA) during the SPD-pollen mother cell meiosis (PMC) stage, and increased the brassinosteroids level in the young panicles at the PMC stage. SR also reduced the degeneration rate of spikelets (DRS) and increased the number of surviving spikelets (NSS). The dry matter accumulation per stem was more important to increasing the NA in japonica rice at the PMC stage, whereas NA was more affected by the N content than the dry matter accumulation in indica rice. In japonica rice, panicle N application once only at the PI stage combined with the N released from SR was enough to improve the plant N content, reduce the DRS, and increase the NSS. For indica rice, split application of N panicle fertilization at both the PI and SPD stages was still necessary to achieve a maximum NSS.

Discussion

In conclusion, under wheat SR practice, panicle fertilization could be simplified to once in japonica rice with a significant yield increase, whereas equal splits might still be optimal for indica rice.
Multiple phonological activation in writing: evidence for cascadedness in Chinese written verb production
Authors: Zhu Xuebing
Published: January 2024

The dynamics of information transmission through the lexical system during written word production remain underspecified. Existing studies largely come from noun production, relatively less work has explored verb production. Verbs, representing actions or states, are considered more abstract and are found to be more challenging to be produced. The present study investigated phonological involvement and the principles governing information flow during Chinese written verb production. Participants wrote down single verbs and verb phrases while ignoring phonologically related, or unrelated distractor pictures. Results revealed phonological facilitation effects on writing latencies from phonologically related distractors in the verb phrase generation. Findings provide novel chronometric evidence that information transmission during written production involves cascaded activation allowing multiple phonological codes to be activated prior to written output. This phonological facilitation effect signifies the influence of phonology, especially lexical phonology, has been underestimated in writing.
Vagus nerve stimulation allows to cease maintenance electroconvulsive therapy in treatment-resistant depression: a retrospective monocentric case series
Authors: Aboubakr Oumaima , Domenech Philippe , Heurtebise Isabelle , Gaillard Raphaël , Guy-Rubin Aurore , Carron Romain , Duriez Philibert , Gorwood Philip , Vinckier Fabien , Pallud Johan , Zanello Marc
Published: January 2024

Context

The use of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) to reduce or stop electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) in treatment-resistant depression seems promising. The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of VNS on the reduction of ECT sessions and mood stabilization.

Methods

We conducted a monocentric retrospective case series of patients who suffered from treatment-resistant depression, treated with ECT and referred to our center for VNS. We investigated the number and the frequency of ECT sessions before and after VNS implantation. Secondary criteria consisted in the Montgomery Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) score, number of medical treatments, dosage of the main treatment and length of hospital stays before and after VNS. Additionally, we sent an anonymous survey to psychiatrists and other physicians in our institution to investigate their knowledge and perception of VNS therapy to treat treatment-resistant depression.

Results

Seven patients benefited from VNS: six (86%) were female (mean age of 51.7 +/− 16.0 years at surgery), and five (71%) suffered from bipolar depression (three type I and two type II). All patients were followed up at least 2 years post-implantation (range: 27–68 months). Prior to VNS, six patients were treated by maintenance ECT. After VNS, three (43%) patients did not require maintenance ECT anymore, and three (43%) patients required less frequent ECT session with a mean 14.7 +/− 9.8 weeks between sessions after VNS vs. 2.9 +/− 0.8 weeks before VNS. At last follow-up, 4 (57%) patients had stopped ECT. Five (71%) patients implanted with VNS were good responders (50% decrease relative to baseline MADRS). According to the survey, psychiatrists had a significantly better perception and knowledge of ECT, but a worse perception and knowledge of VNS compared to other physicians.

Conclusion

VNS is a good option for treatment-resistant depression requiring maintenance ECT dependence. Larger on-going studies will help broaden the implanted patients while strengthening psychiatrists’ knowledge on this therapy.
Carbon risk and green transition: evidence from China
Authors: Li Junfu , Xie Yanxiang , Gao Xiang , Wei Qian
Published: January 2024

Carbon risk may have potential influences on the green transition of enterprises. This paper thoroughly investigates the effect and mechanism of carbon risk on the transition towards sustainability. We use quantitative regression models and a panel of Chinese manufactural listed companies from 2011-2020. There is strong evidence manifesting that the effect of carbon risk on corporate green transition is positive and statistically significant. The green transition is marked by the overall encouragement of exploratory, exploitable, autonomous, and collaborative green innovation. The mechanism test indicates that the enhancement of internal R&D transformation and the pressure of external stakeholders are two fundamental pathways by which carbon risk influences the green transition. Additional examination reveals that the beneficial impact is particularly noticeable for companies that have limited capital intensity, minimal governmental assistance, reduced financial limitations, and are state-owned enterprises. These results are robust to resolve the problem of endogeneity by means of instrumental variables, Heckman two-step, placebo test, propensity score matching and difference-in-difference ways. Against the background of carbon neutrality, it is of great significance to examine the relationship between carbon risk and corporate green transition. The conclusion complements the knowledge of carbon risk and green transition, as well as provides theoretical insights and practical enlightenment for the green transition of manufacturing enterprises in emerging economies.
The influence of different sources of anticipated instrumental support on depressive symptoms in older adults
Authors: Fu Duanduan , Wang Fang , Gao Baizhi , Bai Qin , Liu Guilin , Zhu Jinghui
Published: January 2024

Objective

This study investigated how anticipated instrumental support sources and intergenerational support influence depressive symptoms in older Chinese adults.

Methods

We employed binary logistic regression on data from 7,117 adults aged ≥60 in the 2018 China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study, controlling for gender, marital status, and self-rated health.

Results

38.89% of respondents exhibited depressive symptoms. Anticipated support from spouse and children, spouse only, children only, or other sources showed 52, 25, 46, and 40% lower odds of depression, respectively, compared with no anticipated support. Those providing financial support had 36% higher odds of depression than those without exchanges. However, those receiving financial support, receiving instrumental support, and receiving and providing financial and emotional support had 19, 14, 23, and 24% lower odds of depression.

Conclusion

Different anticipated instrumental support sources and intergenerational support influenced depression odds in older adults, suggesting potential benefits in promoting such support systems.
Nutritional knowledge, attitudes, and practices among residents in the Northeast areas of China during the COVID-19 epidemic
Authors: Hou Liyan , Xia Xueyan , Du Ying , Zhang Yu , Li Shuangshuang , Liu Wen , Zhao Jie , Wang Ke , Zhang Lei , Wang Qingshan
Published: January 2024

Background

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) due to SARS-CoV-2 infection continues to affect the daily life of communities worldwide. Nutrition is a vital determinant of overall health. Given the lack of specific drugs for COVID-19 and incomplete vaccination coverage, optimizing nutrition appears to be one of the most cost-effective means of enhancing immunity. Therefore, this study was designed to evaluate nutrition-related knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) to offer insights into the personal determinants of dietary behavior during COVID-19 pandemic in four major cities within the Northeast region.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted between January and December 2022 using a self-administered questionnaire. The data were entered in EpiData V-3.02 and analyzed using SPSS version 26. Binary logistic regression analysis was also employed to examine the association between dependent and independent variables.

Results

A total of 4,092 respondents were included in the study. Most of the respondents demonstrated had inadequate nutrition knowledge, 26% of them provided ≥60% of correct answers. About one-third of the respondents were knowledgeable about the daily levels of oil, salt, milk, water, vegetables and fruits for adults. Furthermore, our results showed that 60.6% of participants held positive attitudes toward healthy eating. Additionally, only 54.6% of the participants have heathy dietary practices during COVID-19 pandemic. Binary logistic regression analysis showed that the following characteristics were associated with displaying unhealthy dietary behaviors: being men, having a lower education level, having a family income of 10,000–19,999 and more than 20,000, being resided in Harbin, Shenyang, and Changchun. Importantly, the strongest associations were observed between poor dietary knowledge and unhealthy eating behaviors. Similarly, dietary attitudes were strongly associated with healthy dietary behaviors when the effects of other factors were excluded; responders with negative attitudes were more likely to exhibit unhealthy eating behaviors.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that residents in the Northeast China possessed a relatively low level of nutritional knowledge, which directly influenced their dietary practices during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study provides valuable insights into the cross-sectional description and key factors related to nutrition-related KAP, serving as a basis for future policymaking to respond more effectively to health crises.
Accounting for 3D radiative effects in MODIS aerosol retrievals near clouds using CALIPSO observations
Authors: Wen Guoyong , Marshak Alexander , Levy Robert , Schuster Gregory
Published: January 2024

Retrieval of aerosol properties near clouds from passive remote sensing is challenging. Sunlight scattered by clouds into nearby clear regions can effectively enhance the clear area reflectance. These cloud 3D radiative effects may lead to large biases in aerosol retrievals if uncorrected, risking the incorrect interpretation of satellite observations for aerosol–cloud interaction in a cloudy atmosphere. In earlier studies, we developed a simple two-layer model (2LM) to estimate the cloud-induced clear-sky radiance enhancements in cloud fields. In this study, we take advantage of CALIPSO lidar observations, which should not be affected by the 3D radiative effect, to study passive aerosol retrievals in cloud fields in the Amazon region, specifically those produced by the operational Dark Target algorithm applied to Aqua-MODIS. From 2 years’ worth of co-located CALIPSO/MODIS aerosol retrievals, we find a larger increase in operationally retrieved MODIS AOD from clear to cloudy regions (∼0.075 or ∼40%) than for the CALIPSO AOD (∼0.021 or ∼20%). The much larger increase in MODIS AOD is mainly due to the 3D radiative effects. After using the 2LM model to account for cloud 3D radiative effects, the clear to cloudy increase in MODIS AOD was reduced to ∼0.043 (∼23%), which is much closer to CALIPSO observations. The 3D corrected average MODIS AOD for cloudy conditions is significantly larger than AOD for clear conditions, even for cloud fraction (CF) less than 0.1, suggesting aerosols in cloudy conditions are characteristically different from aerosols in clear conditions. Furthermore, the 3D correction of AOD (i.e., τ1D−τ3D) increases linearly with CF for a large range of CF. We have also examined the impact of the 3D effect on aerosol Ångström Exponent (AE) and fine model fraction (FMF) of AOD. We found that the uncorrected average AE and FMF depend strongly on CF, ∼25% increase in AE (decrease in particle size) and ∼60% increase in FMF as CF increases from 0.05 to 0.45. The 3D correction leads to smaller average AE (bigger particle size) and FMF that are almost independent of CF. Thus, the 3D corrected aerosol properties are expected to provide more accurate information for better understanding aerosol–cloud interactions.
What consumers want in a sustainability food label: Results from online co-creation workshops in the United Kingdom, Ireland and Denmark
Authors: Pedersen Susanne , Benson Tony , Tsalis George , Futtrup Rebecca , Dean Moira , Aschemann-Witzel Jessica
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Changes in consumers’ decision-making relating to food play an important role in the sustainable transition of the food system. However, assessing sustainability across choice alternatives is complex. A holistic or multi-dimensional ‘summary’ sustainability label for food could help consumers make more informed choices, but it is important that such a label is developed taking consumers’ perception and understanding of sustainability into consideration. Hence, it is necessary to understand consumers’ needs and wants in a sustainability food label. The objective of this study is therefore to explore in-depth consumer perceptions and preferences for sustainability as a concept in food production as well as for a sustainability label for food.

Method

A total of six online co-creation workshops were carried out in the UK and Ireland (3 groups, n = 24) and Denmark (3 groups, n = 21) using an interactive platform, where participants over the course of two weeks discussed and engaged in creative tasks related to food and sustainability.

Results

Results show that consumers in lack information about the sustainability of food products. There were differences with regards to which of 10 pre-tested indicators of sustainability (nature preservation, climate change, animal welfare, fair wages, biodiversity, pollution, health, equality, economic growth and culture) were perceived as most important. The information participants discussed as relevant for a sustainability label included transportation, the degree of processing, and packaging, with some country differences. Consumers acknowledged the complexity of designing and understanding a sustainability food label and existing nutrition labels served as inspiration for creating a sustainability label. Consumers recommended more responsibility to be taken by retailers and food producers through public information campaigns to create awareness.

Discussion

Pros and cons of co-creating a sustainability label with consumers online are discussed as well as the implications for consumers, the food industry and policy makers.
Moving Hybrid Zones; When Two Species Meet, Mate, and Compete
Authors: Prins Nienke , Wielstra Ben
Published: January 2024

When parents of two different species have babies together, those babies are called hybrids. In nature, hybrids are often born in the region where the ranges of their parent species meet. This region is called a hybrid zone. We know that species change their ranges all the time, and we also know that some species compete with each other for food or living space. This means that, if one of the two parent species manages to expand its range, the other species may be forced to retreat. If that were to happen, the hybrid zone between the two species’ ranges should move, right? Even though researchers used to think that hybrid zone movement was rare, recent studies suggest otherwise. In this article, we will tell you what hybrid zones are, how they form, why their position may shift over time, and what we can learn from this movement.
Adjuvants influence the immune cell populations present at the injection site granuloma induced by whole-cell inactivated paratuberculosis vaccines in sheep
Authors: Criado Miguel , Reyes Luis E. , Marín Juan F. García , Gutiérrez-Expósito Daniel , Zapico David , Espinosa José , Pérez Valentín
Published: January 2024

Vaccination is the most effective tool for paratuberculosis control. Currently, available vaccines prevent the progression of clinical disease in most animals but do not fully protect them against infection and induce the formation of an injection site granuloma. The precise mechanisms that operate in response to vaccination and granuloma development, as well as the effect that adjuvants could trigger, have not been fully investigated. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the injection site granulomas induced by two inactivated paratuberculosis vaccines, which differ in the adjuvant employed. Two groups of 45-day-old lambs were immunized with two commercially available vaccines—one (n = 4) with Gudair® and the other (n = 4) with Silirum®. A third group (n = 4) was not vaccinated and served as control. The peripheral humoral response was assessed throughout the study by a commercial anti-Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (Map) antibody indirect ELISA, and the cellular immune response was assessed similarly by the IFN-γ release and comparative intradermal tests. The injection site granulomas were measured during the experiment and sampled at 75 days post-vaccination (dpv) when the animals were euthanized. The tissue damage, antigen and adjuvant distribution, and the presence and amount of immune cells were then determined and assessed by immunohistochemical methods. Antibodies against Map antigens; a general macrophage marker (Iba1), M1 (iNOS), and M2 (CD204) macrophages; T (CD3), B (CD20), and γδ T lymphocytes, proteins MHC-II and NRAMP1, and cytokines IL-4, IL-10, TNF, and IFN-γ were employed. Silirum® elicited a stronger peripheral cellular immune response than Gudair®, while the latter induced larger granulomas and more tissue damage at the site of injection. Additionally, adjuvant and Map antigen distribution throughout the granulomatous inflammatory infiltrate, as well as the NRAMP1 cell expression, which is linked to antigen phagocytosis, were highly irregular. In Silirum® induced granulomas, a higher number of MHC-II and TNF-expressing cells and a lower number of M2 macrophages suggested an improved antigen presentation, which could be due to the better antigen distribution and reduced tissue damage induced by this vaccine.
Transformation Properties of a Class of Variable Coefficient Boiti–Leon–Manna–Pempinelli Equations
Authors: Sophocleous Christodoulos
Published: January 2024

We derive the enhanced Lie group classification for a general class of variable coefficient Boiti–Leon–Manna–Pempinelli equations. This task is achieved with the use of the equivalence group admitted by the class. Using the admitted equivalence group, we transform the general class into a much simpler class of equations. Additionally, examples of non-Lie reduction operators are presented.
A Ten-Year before–after Study on the Impact of the Affordable Care Act Health Insurance Expansion on Emergency Department Visits in California, U.S.
Authors: Chan Theodore C. , Brennan Jesse J. , Castillo Edward M.
Published: January 2024

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) implemented in the U.S. aimed to improve healthcare access by expanding insurance coverage. To study the impact of ACA on Emergency Departments (Eds), we conducted a multi-center observational retrospective study of ED visits from all nonfederal acute care hospitals in California over a 10-year period (2009 and 2018), 5 years before and after ACA implementation. Primary outcome measures included total ED visits, health insurance, disposition, and diagnoses, including ambulatory-care-sensitive conditions (ACSCs), and were analyzed each year to assess for trends during the 10-year study period. Overall, ED visits increased from 8,475,330 (30,791/100,000 population) in 2009 to 11,389,384 in 2018 (37,255/100,000 population), an increase of 21.0%, with the largest increase in 2014, the first year of ACA. The payer mix also dramatically changed, with a significant drop in uninsured patient visits (21.5% to 7.8%) and an increase in government-funded Medicaid visits (18.9% to 35.7%). There was a slight decrease in visits resulting in hospitalization or transfer (21.2% to 18.1% of all D visits) and ASCS visits (173.2 to 144.3 per 1000 ED visits). In conclusion, ED visits increased significantly in California following ACA, with a decrease in uninsured patients and small decreases in both hospitalizations/transfers.
Tracking the Carbon Emissions Using Electricity Big Data: A Case Study of the Metal Smelting Industry
Authors: Zhou Chunli , Tang Yuze , Zhu Deyan , Cui Zhiwei
Published: January 2024

Implementing real-time carbon emissions monitoring at the enterprise level enables the detailed breakdown of carbon neutrality goals for microcosmic enterprises, which is of paramount significance in ensuring the precision of policy formulations. Grounded in China’s historical electricity consumption and carbon emissions data, this study utilizes the network approach and input–output methods to compute and predict direct and indirect transmission coefficients of electricity consumption and carbon emissions in each province. We establish a methodology that enables the monitoring of real-time carbon emissions of enterprises based on corporate electricity consumption data. Using the metal smelting industry in Guangxi as an example, our findings are as follows: First, in 2020, the comprehensive carbon emissions of the ferrous metal smelting industry in Guangxi reached 58.84 million tons, marking a notable increase of 42.78% compared to emissions in 2014, indicating that emissions reductions are imperative. Second, significant regional variations in emission coefficients are observed, with values ranging from 14 g CO2/KWh to 940 g CO2/KWh among provinces. Meanwhile, the trends of direct carbon emissions and indirect carbon emissions are totally different, underscoring the importance of comprehensive carbon accounting in informing policy decisions. Third, through the carbon emissions real-time monitoring of 75 metal smelting industry enterprises using electricity big data, we identified that the distribution of emissions across industries, time periods, and regions is uneven. Overall, this method can optimize carbon emission measurement techniques to a higher spatiotemporal resolution and more microscopic monitoring subjects, providing essential numerical foundations for promoting carbon emissions reduction and sustainable development.
(New) Histories of Science, in and beyond Modern Europe: Introduction
Authors: Achermann Dania , Link Fabian , Remmert Volker , Stehrenberger Cécile
Published: January 2024

Over the past few decades, history of science has changed enormously and developed into a very dynamic and diversified field of historical research [...]
Comparison of Ultrasound and MRI with Intraoperative Findings in the Diagnosis of Peroneal Tendinopathy, Tears, and Subluxation
Authors: Melville David M. , Taljanovic Mihra S. , Gimber Lana H. , Miller Matthew , Ahmad Aamir , Sepich Dustin , Latt L. Daniel
Published: January 2024

Suspected peroneal tendinopathy, tears, and subluxation are often confirmed preoperatively using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or diagnostic ultrasound (US). No study has directly compared the accuracy of these tests for the diagnosis of peroneal tendon pathology. The purpose of this study is to directly compare MRI and US to intraoperative findings in patients who underwent surgery for suspected peroneal pathology to determine the imaging diagnostic accuracy. Operative records and diagnostic images for 21 consecutive patients who had both MRI and US prior to surgery for suspected peroneal tendinopathy, tears, or subluxation were retrospectively reviewed. The results of this review are compared with the intraoperative findings to yield the sensitivity and specificity for each imaging modality. For the diagnosis of peroneal tendon tears, US was found to have a sensitivity of 88% and specificity of 100%, compared to 100% sensitivity and specificity for MRI. In the diagnosis of peroneal tendinopathy, both US and MRI had a sensitivity and specificity of 100%. In diagnosing peroneal subluxation, US was 100% sensitive compared to 66% for MRI, and both were 100% specific. In conclusion, US was found to be more effective in diagnosing peroneal subluxation and MRI was slightly more accurate in the diagnosis of peroneal tendon tears.
The Unstable Fracture of Multifilament Tows
Authors: Lamon Jacques
Published: January 2024

The present paper investigates the unexpected unstable failure observed commonly on fiber tows tensile-tested under strain-controlled loading, although the force on the fibers should theoretically be relaxed under controlled strain. A model of the reaction of the load train when the fibers break under strain-controlled conditions is proposed. The criterion for instability is based on the comparison of the filament strength gradient and the overstress induced by the reaction of the load train when the fibers fail. The contribution of multiplet filament failures attributed to the fiber inter-friction and stress waves was taken into account. The compliance of the load train for the test results considered in the present paper was measured. It is shown that, depending on the number of filaments sharing the overload, the values of the structural parameters, and the fiber characteristics, the condition of unstable failure may have been fulfilled by the SiC fiber tows that were tested in house, as discussed in the present paper. The critical parameters that were identified and quantified include the load train compliance, gauge length, fiber stiffness, and bonding of the tow ends. This should allow the proper conditions for stable failure. Important implications for the validity and an analysis of the strengths derived from the unstable fracture of the tows are discussed.
Study on the Constitutive Modeling of (2.5 vol%TiB + 2.5 vol%TiC)/TC4 Composites under Hot Compression Conditions
Authors: Qiang Kehao , Wang Shisong , Wang Haowen , Zeng Zhulin , Qi Liangzhao
Published: January 2024

The hot deformation behavior of titanium matrix composites plays a crucial role in determining the performance of the formed components. Therefore, it is significant to establish an accurate constitutive relationship between material deformation parameters and flow stress. In this study, hot compression experiments were conducted on a (2.5 vol%TiB + 2.5 vol%TiC)/TC4. The experiments were performed under temperatures ranging from 1013.15 to 1133.15 K and strain rates ranging from 0.001 to 0.1 s−1. Based on the stress–strain data obtained from the experiment, the constitutive models were established by using the Arrhenius model and the BP neural network algorithm, respectively. Considering the relationship between strain rate, hot working temperature, and flow stress, a comparative analysis was conducted to evaluate the prediction accuracy of two different constitutive models. The research results indicate that the flow stress of (2.5 vol%TiB + 2.5 vol%TiC)/TC4 increases with decreasing temperature and increasing strain rate, and the stress–strain curve shows obvious work hardening and softening behaviors. Both the Arrhenius model and the BP neural network algorithm are effective in predicting the hot compression flow stress of (2.5 vol%TiB + 2.5 vol%TiC)/TC4, but the average relative error and root mean square error of the BP neural network algorithm are smaller and the correlation coefficient is higher, thus possessing higher accuracy and reliability.
Time and Change in Advaita—Gauḍapāda in Dialogue with Vasiṣṭha and Nāgārjuna
Authors: Timalsina Sthaneshwar
Published: January 2024

In the classical philosophical landscape of India, the Advaita of Śaṅkara occupies central stage. Besides the Upaniṣadic literature, the Gauḍapāda-kārikā (GK) of Gauḍapāda is the primary text in this school. Relying primarily on the GK, this essay explores the ways the issue of change can be addressed within the Advaita paradigm. For Advaitins, there exists only the singular reality of Brahman, of the character of non-differentiated consciousness. In this paradigm, the attributes of both being and blissfulness never change. Furthermore, the central teaching of Gauḍapāda is the doctrine of ‘non-origination’ (ajāti), that nothing is ever originated. For Advaita, change or deviation is possible only under the spell of illusion, as the absolute is changeless. By comparing the position of Gauḍapāda with other classical, non-dual philosophies, this paper explores arguments for and against change in the classical philosophical school of Advaita.
Eschatological Technophobia: Cinematic Anticipations of the Singularity
Authors: Conway Daniel
Published: January 2024

My aim in this essay is to isolate and describe the eschatological technophobia that is expressed by many popular films in the genre of science fiction. What I have in mind by this designation is the (irrational) fear of advanced technologies with respect to the conjectured likelihood that autonomous systems and programs will inevitably deliver a negative judgment of humankind. In expressing and/or cultivating this fear, I offer, directors in the genre tend to help themselves to the language and imagery of the Biblical Day of Judgment, especially as it is prophesied and characterized in the Abrahamic religions of the global West. This fear, I maintain, is itself an expression of a deeper anxiety pertaining to the possibility (or likelihood) that the achievements of humankind matter very little, if at all, especially when evaluated on a cosmic scale. Following my critique of several films that rely, uncreatively, on the trope of eschatological technophobia, I turn to a consideration of two relatively recent films in the genre: Christopher Nolan’s Interstellar (2014) and Denis Villeneuve’s Arrival (2016). From these directors, I suggest, we receive subtler and more thoughtful treatments of the judgments of humankind that superior intelligences are likely to pronounce. What emerges in these two films is the exploratory expression of a religiosity or spirituality that I associate with an updated, epoch-appropriate version of humanism.
A Fork in the Road
Authors: Black Peter C.
Published: January 2024

The SIU Journal was launched in 2020 based on a recognized need for a truly international journal that publishes the highest quality articles and is freely accessible to readers and authors worldwide [...]
Los instrumentos de evaluación creativa y su aporte en el aprendizaje del estudiantado en Educación General Básica
Authors: Arteaga Tubay Gisela Marilena , Mendoza Moreira Francisco Samuel
Published: January 2024

El presente artículo tiene como objetivo analizar el impacto de la Evaluación Creativa en el aprendizaje de los estudiantes de Educación General Básica de la Unidad Educativa Carlos Polit Ortiz en Manta, Ecuador. La investigación es de tipo descriptiva exploratoria con enfoque cuantitativo, utilizando encuestas aplicadas a docentes y padres de familia. Entre los resultados más importantes logrados a través de la muestra se establece que la evaluación es un componente indispensable en el proceso de enseñanza-aprendizaje, sin embargo, las condiciones estáticas y estandarizadas a las que se someten los instrumentos de evaluación terminan por disponer resultados que no muestran de manera real las habilidades y contenidos desarrollados, por lo tanto, la retroalimentación y planes de mejora se ven comprometidos en un escenario que cumple de manera parcial el objetivo fundamental de la evaluación. Bajo este contexto el estudio propone como una alternativa viable el uso y promoción de las evaluaciones creativas, mismas que a modo de conclusión garantizan de manera individual y colectiva el desarrollo de habilidades, obteniendo un aprendizaje significativo en el alumnado disponiendo de mejor manera de los contenidos curriculares en un contexto motivador y libre de estrés.
PALABRAS CLAVE: Evaluación; Creatividad; Aprendizaje; Innovación; Instrumentos.
The instruments of creative evaluation and their contribution to the learning of students in Basic General Education
ABSTRACT
The aim of this article is to analyze the impact of Creative Assessment on the learning of students in Basic General Education at the Carlos Polit Ortiz Educational Unit in Manta, Ecuador. The research is exploratory-descriptive in nature with a quantitative approach, using surveys applied to teachers and parents. Among the most important results achieved through the sample, it is set up that assessment is an indispensable part in the teaching-learning process. However, the static and standardized conditions to which assessment instruments are subjected end up yielding results that do not show the skills and content developed in a truthful way. Therefore, feedback and improvement plans are compromised in a scenario that partially fulfills the fundamental aim of assessment. Under this context, the study proposes the use and promotion of creative assessments as a workable alternative, which guarantee the individual and collective development of skills and significant learning in students, enabling better access to curricular content in a motivating and stress-free context.
KEYWORDS: Assessment; Creativity; Learning; Innovation; Instruments.