bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
THE IMPORTANCE OF LIGAMENT PROPERTIES IN CERVICAL SPINE KINEMATICS: A FINITE ELEMENT STUDY
Authors: Obaid Numaira , Kwon Brian K. , Sparrey Carolyn J.
Published: December 2024

Rotation of the cervical spine beyond its normal range of motion is a leading cause of fall-related spinal cord injuries (SCIs) in older adults. This rotation is constrained, in part, by the spinal ligaments. The experimentally measured properties of these ligaments are tabulated in literature, including sex-specific properties; however, their influence on the rotation kinematics of the cervical spine has not been compared. We examined how different mechanical properties of spinal ligaments, including sex-specific properties, affected the rotational kinematics of the cervical spine using finite element analysis (FEA). Ligament properties most influenced the rotation of the lower cervical spine, with increased ligament stiffness reducing rotation. Ligament deformation remained mostly in the toe region of their force-displacement curves, emphasizing the need to incorporate non-linear ligament behavior in FEA. Predictions made using one set of experimental properties (Property 1) better-matched experimental kinematic data. Using sex-specific properties had a moderate effect (6% in extension, –3% in flexion) on rotation, with a greater impact on extension. Ligament properties also affected the segmental distribution of rotation, causing a variability of 3–21% at different levels. We emphasized the need to incorporate tailored approaches to FEA to obtain clinically relevant results when modeling flexion/extension rotation.
How to Select Algorithms for Predictive Maintenance: An Economic Decision Model and Real-World Instantiation
Authors: Fabri Lukas , Häckel Björn , Keller Robert , Oberländer Anna Maria
Published: December 2024

Predictive maintenance represents a promising application of Artificial Intelligence in the industrial context. The evaluation and selection of predictive maintenance algorithms primarily rely on statistical measures such as absolute and relative prediction errors. However, a purely statistical approach to algorithm selection may not necessarily lead to the optimal economic outcome, as the two types of prediction errors are negatively correlated, thus, cannot be jointly optimized, and are associated with different costs. As the current literature lacks corresponding guidance, we developed a decision model for industrial full-service providers, applying an economic perspective to selecting predictive maintenance algorithms. The decision model was instantiated and evaluated in a real-world setting with a European machinery company providing full-service solutions in the field of car wash systems. Building on sensor data from 4.9 million car wash cycles, the instantiation demonstrates the applicability and effectiveness of the decision model with fidelity to a real-world phenomenon. In sum, the decision model provides economic insights into the trade-off between the algorithms’ error types and enables users to focus on economic concerns in algorithm selection. Our work contributes to the prescriptive knowledge of algorithm selection and predictive maintenance in line with the consideration of different types of cost.
Antimagic labeling of n-uniform cactus chain graphs
Authors: Joseph Ancy Kandathil , Kureethara Joseph Varghese
Published: December 2024

A graph [Formula: see text] is considered antimagic if it admits antimagic labeling. The antimagic labeling of a finite, simple graph with [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] is a bijective function from the set of edges to the set of integers [Formula: see text] such that the vertex sum of [Formula: see text] vertices is pairwise distinct. The vertex sum of a vertex is obtained by summing the labels of all edges incident to it. Hartsfield and Ringel conjectured that every connected graph different from [Formula: see text] is antimagic. Supporting this conjecture, it was shown that the dense graphs are antimagic. A cactus graph is a connected graph where no edge lies within more than one cycle. A cactus graph in which each block is a cycle of the same size [Formula: see text] is called an n-uniform cactus graph. We proved that Hartsfield and Ringel’s conjecture is true for [Formula: see text]-uniform cactus chain graphs with and without pendant vertices, which are specific cases of sparse graphs.
Modeling herd immunity: Insights from human behavior during COVID-19
Authors: Soubane H. , Nafidi A. , Soubane D.
Published: December 2024

We present a comprehensive [Formula: see text] model incorporating six compartments to examine the progression of COVID-19 and evaluate control strategies. Our findings reveal that implementing partial restrictions with varying levels of stringency delays the infection peak by approximately 160 days, alleviating pressure on healthcare systems. Under a herd immunity approach with an 85% immunity threshold, at least 425 days (14 months) are required for a gradual return to normalcy. Accelerated vaccination significantly shortens this timeline, emphasizing the critical role of immunization in societal reopening. Additionally, we highlight the importance of rigorously assessing post-vaccine side effects to uphold ethical and scientific standards. These insights provide actionable guidance for policymakers to balance public health interventions with economic recovery.
Preparation and microwave dielectric properties of temperature-stable low-dielectric (1−x)Li2MoO4−xBi0.4Ce0.6VO4 ceramics for satellite communication applications
Authors: Wang Zu-Wei , Wei Hong-Bing , Guo Huan-Huan , Huang Yuan-Yuan , Wang Zhong-Wen , Yang Wei , Liu Feng , Li Yue-Ming
Published: December 2024

In this study, a series of ([Formula: see text]x)Li2MoO4[Formula: see text]xBi0.4Ce0.6VO4 [x = 0.25, 0.35, 0.45, 0.55, ([Formula: see text]x)LM–xBCV] microwave dielectric ceramics, capable of being sintered at low temperatures, were synthesized using the solid-phase method. The temperature coefficient of resonance frequency in LM microwave dielectric ceramics was effectively modulated through the incorporation of BCV with tetragonal zirconia phases, resulting in the formation of composite ceramics. This approach led to the development of a low-permittivity ([Formula: see text]r ∼ 12.6) microwave dielectric ceramic material exhibiting a near-zero temperature coefficient (TCF ∼ +0.5 ppm/∘C). The composite, specifically 0.55LM–0.45BCV, achieved ultra-low temperature sintering below [Formula: see text]C and demonstrated excellent performance as low-temperature co-fired ceramic materials, with good co-firing compatibility with metallic silver. Furthermore, the volatilization of lithium and bismuth elements was effectively mitigated through the burying sintering process. Which resulted in a substantial enhancement of the [Formula: see text] (Q and f denote the quality factor and the resonant frequency, respectively) value for the 0.55LM–0.45BCV ceramics, achieving an increase of nearly threefold (Q × f [Formula: see text] [Formula: see text]GHz). To investigate the application potential of 0.55LM–0.45BCV ceramic, particularly in the context of low-orbit communication satellites, a circularly polarized patch antenna was designed utilizing 0.55LM–0.45BCV ceramic as the dielectric substrate material. The antenna demonstrated a high simulated radiation efficiency of 93.8% and a gain of 4.0[Formula: see text]dBi at a center frequency of 1.559[Formula: see text]GHz, indicating its promising applicability in the domain of orbital satellite communication.
Deciphering the structural, morphological, and electrical properties of rare-earth incorporated barium stannate titanate dielectric material
Authors: Kumar Sachin , Pritam Anurag , Shrivastava Vaibhav , Thakur O. P. , Luthra Vandna
Published: December 2024

The primary aim of the current research is to explore the impact of yttrium-doping in barium stannate titanate (Ba[Formula: see text]YxTi[Formula: see text]SnzO3) to investigate the variation in its structural and electrical properties. The specimens were synthesized using a solid-state method, wherein the precursors were heated together until they reacted to form the desired compounds. Subsequently, X-ray diffractometric analysis was employed to confirm the crystallographic phases. Archimedes’ method was used to determine the density of the material. An Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR) study was conducted to examine the nature of defect centers and impurity ions within the synthesized ceramics. Furthermore, the impact of yttrium (Y) substitution on the system’s morphology and grain growth was evaluated through SEM micrographs. Selective compositions were found with enhanced dielectric properties of barium titanate ceramic, exhibiting a dielectric constant of 9816 at the transition point. The highest value among all studied samples had a clear indication of DC conductivity. Piezoelectric coefficient (d[Formula: see text]) and P-E hysteresis loops were also investigated for these samples, indicating potential applications in electronic devices for the modified material’s improved ferroelectric properties.
Enhancing Graph Edit Distance Computation: A Hybrid Method Combining GNN and Graph Structural Features
Authors: Booryaee Roya , Kamandi Ali
Published: December 2024

Graph Edit Distance (GED) computation is a fundamental yet NP-hard problem in graph theory that quantifies the structural dissimilarity between graphs through a series of edit operations. Despite its significance in fields like bioinformatics, cheminformatics, and social network analysis, the computational complexity of exact GED calculation has driven the development of heuristic and approximate methods. This paper proposes a novel approach leveraging Graph Neural Networks to predict GED efficiently. By capturing both local and global graph features through advanced embedding techniques and integrating the Weisfeiler–Lehman graph kernel, our method achieves high accuracy in estimating GED values. Extensive experiments on datasets such as AIDS, Linux, and IMDB demonstrate that our approach outperforms existing methods in terms of mean absolute error (MAE) and computational feasibility. The proposed framework not only enhances the scalability and precision of GED computation, but also provides a robust tool for graph dissimilarity assessments in various application domains.
YOSCA: Confidence Adjustment for Better Object Detection in Aerial Images
Authors: Nguyen Loi , Nguyen Khang
Published: December 2024

Detecting small objects is a significant challenge when evaluating images captured from UAVs. Although YOLO models have been successful in detecting conventional objects, but they still face challenges in detecting small objects in traffic monitoring scenarios. Applying the Slicing-Aided Hyper Inference (SAHI) framework to YOLO models can expand the pixel regions containing small objects, thereby improving the detection of objects with tiny and small sizes. However, this can also lead to the cropping of larger vehicles, which reduces accuracy. This paper proposes a method that combines the results of the YOLO model with an SAHI-enhanced YOLO version, after adjusting the confidence scores of bounding boxes using a Gaussian Mixture Model-based approach, to improve accuracy in detecting small vehicles without compromising the detection of larger objects. This combined approach enhances detection coverage by normalizing the model outputs based on synthesized data, including removing duplicates and score normalization, and then merging the two detection sets. We conduct a thorough evaluation of the proposed method with different versions of YOLO: YOLOv5, YOLOv6, YOLOv7 and YOLOv8. Experimental results on two aerial surveillance datasets, namely, Visdrone and DroneVehicle, demonstrate the increased accuracy of mAP across all tested models.
Iron Oxide and Carbon Thread Integrated Flower Garland-like Acetone Gas Sensor
Authors: Paramaiyappan M. , Davis Jacob I. , Palanivelrajan S.
Published: December 2024

The hydrothermal method has been successfully employed to grow flower garland-like morphologies of sheet and rod-assembled Fe2O3 on a carbon thread (CT), utilizing Fe[Formula: see text] solution as a precursor. The produced materials underwent characterization through scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). Subsequently, these Fe2O3 garlands were utilized in the construction of gas sensors, which were then tested with various common gases. Operating at room temperature, the sensors exhibited an optimal response value of 50–100[Formula: see text]ppm acetone. Notably, the Fe2O3 garland sensors demonstrated remarkably rapid response and recovery times, measured at 9[Formula: see text]s and 12[Formula: see text]s, respectively. The three-dimensional (3D) porous structure and high surface area were identified as crucial components of the underlying sensing mechanism.
Threat Perception, Vision of Order, and the Logic of Changes in the US–Japan Alliance in the Post-Cold War Era
Authors: Zeng Yiming , Ye Xiaodi
Published: December 2024

To explore the underlying logic behind the evolution of the US–Japan alliance in the post-Cold War era, this research constructs an explanatory framework that analyzes the alliance cohesion in security, economic, and political cooperation through threat perceptions and visions of order. It proposes a typology including four types of alliances: Drifting Alliance, Rules-Maintaining Alliance, Threat-Balancing Alliance, and Comprehensively Collaborative Alliance. In the Drifting Alliance, alliance cohesion is the lowest, as the differing threat perceptions and divergent visions of order between the United States and Japan resulted in deviating objectives and hindering cooperation; In the Rules-Maintaining Alliance, alliance cohesion is semi-strong. Despite differing threat perceptions, the United States and Japan share converging visions of order, allowing the US–Japan alliance to enhance economic and political cooperation, but impeding security cooperation. In the Threat-Balancing Alliance, alliance cohesion is medium. Their consistent threat perceptions and divergent visions of order strengthen imperative security cooperation to balance threats, but fail to reach a consensus on economic cooperation and political cooperation. In the Comprehensively Collaborative Alliance, alliance cohesion is the strongest. The United States and Japan share consistent threat perceptions and converging visions of order, resulting in the strengthening and mutual reinforcement of security, economic, and political cooperation.
Mao Zedong’s Information Sources for Understanding the International Situation: A Preliminary Study (1956–1965)
Authors: Fang Zhang , Lin Guo
Published: December 2024

Between 1956 and 1965, Mao Zedong’s evolving understanding of the international situation and China’s role on the world stage shaped an international outlook with substantial global impact. Research on Mao’s international outlook centers on his acquisition and analysis of information. Mao accessed international information mainly through two sources: reports from PRC and CPC agencies, and information obtained from foreign interactions. Mao’s main focus included information about the Soviet Union, other socialist countries, neighboring and developing nations, internal developments in Western capitalist countries, interstate relations, and global assessments of China. After reviewing international information, Mao issued instructions and forwarded them, along with the information, to relevant parties. His goals were to facilitate specific tasks, unify perspectives on the international situation, and strengthen confidence in China’s development path. Mao’s approach to acquiring and using international information relied on the efficiency of party operations and his personal authority and influence. His international outlook, shaped by this information, also carried a distinct ideological tone.
Characterization of Li-Ion Cathode Materials Directly Recycled via Induction Heating from Production Scraps
Authors: Wagner Michael , Grießl Desiree , Hiller Martin , Kwade Arno
Published: December 2024

The direct recycling of electrode scraps represents an attractive opportunity to reduce costs and CO2 emissions in battery cell production and to make the product life cycle more sustainable. Induction heating as a recycling method offers high energy efficiency, flexible process control and short heating times. Based on previous work in which we recovered cathode materials by induction heating, we analyze the recycled materials and reuse them in new battery cells. The recycled materials show no fundamental change in crystal structure but exhibit progressive LiF formation on the cathode active material surface with increasing recycling temperatures. The LiF deteriorates the electrochemical performance of the recycled cathodes by both, inactively binding parts of the Li inventory and increasing the charge transfer resistance. However, a recycling temperature of 300 °C which already has been proven in our previous work to be favourable in terms of decoating efficiency is still enabling good electrochemical performance. Other challenges for the direct recycling of electrode scraps identified in this work are agglomeration and generally uneven distribution of binder and carbon black in the electrodes produced from recycled cathode powders. This can increase the ionic and the electrical resistance and reduce the adhesion strength of the electrodes.
“The Mystery of the Cell Kingdom”: an online game to improve the learning of thyroid physiology
Authors: Cardinali Camila Aparecida Errerias Fernandes , Martins Yandara Akamine , Prates Rodrigo Pereira , de Araújo Emmanuel Veríssimo , Viana Felipe José Costa , de Sousa Maria Eleticia , Bombardi Eduardo da Cunha , Baldo Marcus Vinicius Chrysóstomo , Nunes Maria Tereza
Published: December 2024

“The Mystery of the Cell Kingdom” is an online game designed as a revision tool of thyroid hormone endocrine physiology. There is a shortage of knights in the Cell Kingdom and you are called as a historian specialist in the Middle Ages to help solve the mystery. Can you help?
Syntaxin 4-enhanced plasma membrane repair is independent of dysferlin in skeletal muscle
Authors: Chen Hsin-Yu , Michele Daniel E.
Published: December 2024

Dysferlin, a crucial Ca2+-binding protein in plasma membrane repair (PMR), shares homology with synaptotagmin, which binds Ca2+ and regulates SNARE-mediated vesicle fusion in neurons. Dysferlin was thus hypothesized to function as synaptotagmin in PMR. We demonstrate here that the activity of SNAREs is important for PMR, and overexpression of STX4 enhances PMR in both intact and dysferlin-deficient skeletal muscle. These data suggest that SNARE-mediated PMR may be independent of dysferlin in skeletal muscle.
Senescent myoblasts exhibit an altered exometabolome that is linked to senescence-associated secretory phenotype signaling
Authors: Kamal Michael , Shanmuganathan Meera , Kroezen Zachery , Joanisse Sophie , Britz-McKibbin Philip , Parise Gianni
Published: December 2024

Cellular senescence and its accompanying secretory phenotype [i.e., the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP)] have been linked to the aging-associated dysfunction of skeletal muscle, yet little is known about this phenomenon in satellite cells. We report that senescent myoblasts experience a significantly altered extracellular metabolome primarily characterized by the substantial release of nonesterified fatty acids. Targeted evaluation of several extracellular senescence-associated metabolites reveals a potential epigenetic role for long-chain fatty acids, particularly oleic acid, in regulating SASP-related gene expression.
Dilatory responsiveness of the internal carotid artery to shear stimulus is constant under different levels of transient hypercapnia
Authors: Sakamoto Rintaro , Kamoda Tatsuki , Ogoh Shigehiko , Sato Kohei , Katayose Masaki , Neki Toru , Iwamoto Erika
Published: December 2024

This study demonstrated that shear-mediated dilation of the internal carotid artery (ICA), an index of cerebrovascular endothelial function, increased with the increase of shear stimulus induced by different degrees of transient hypercapnia. However, when ICA dilation was normalized to the total increased shear stimulus above baseline, the vasodilation became comparable across different hypercapnia levels. Thus, normalizing ICA dilation to the total shear stimulus increased from baseline may enhance the validity of assessing cerebrovascular endothelial function.
Urban Traffic Flow Forecasting Based on Graph Structure Learning
Authors: Huo Guangyu , Zhang Yong , Lv Yimei , Ren Hao , Yin Baocai
Published: December 2024

The transportation system is a complex dynamic giant system which integrates and intertwines the elements of people, vehicles, roads, and the environment. The city‐level traffic flow forecasting can effectively reflect the flow changes of the traffic system and provide practical guidance for the formulation of traffic rules. Recent city‐level traffic flow forecasting works rely on accurate prior knowledge of graphs (i.e., the spatial relationships between roads), which hinders their effectiveness and application in the real world. We propose a novel framework for urban traffic flow forecasting, which simultaneously infers and utilizes the relationship between time series. In our model, the graph structure learning module dynamically captures the correlation and causation between the different time series and infers a potentially fully connected graph. At the same time, the temporal convolution network captures the temporal correlation between a single time series. The graph neural network uses the graph for forecasting. Our model no longer relies on accurate graph priors and achieves better forecasting results than previous work. Experiments on two public datasets verify that the proposed model is very competitive.
The Hemodynamic Management and Postoperative Outcomes After Cytoreductive Surgery and Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy: A Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Solanki Sohan Lal , Agarwal Vandana , Ambulkar Reshma P. , Joshi Malini P. , Chawathey Shreyas , Rudrappa Shivacharan Patel , Bhandare Manish , Saklani Avanish P.
Published: December 2024

Background: Cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (CRS‐HIPEC) has become standard treatment for peritoneal cancers and metastases, significantly enhancing survival rates. This study evaluated the relationship between tumor burden, hemodynamic management, and postoperative outcomes after CRS‐HIPEC.

Methodology: This study included 203 patients undergoing CRS‐HIPEC. The study was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02754115). Routine and advanced hemodynamic monitoring was performed. Data on fluid and blood transfusions, coagulation management, body temperature, blood gases, Peritoneal Carcinomatosis Index (PCI), and chemotherapeutic agents used were collected. Postoperatively, complications using the Clavien–Dindo classification were employed. Primary outcomes assessed PCI’s impact on hemodynamic parameters and fluid management, with secondary outcomes including postoperative complications, mortality, and length of ICU and hospital stays.

Results: Patients with PCI > 20 experienced significantly longer surgeries (796.2 ± 158.3 min) as compared with patients with PCI 0–10 (551 ± 127 min) and patients with PCI between 11 and 20 (661.78 ± 137.7 min) (p ≤ 0.01). Patients with PCI > 20 received higher fluid requirements (mean: 5497.7 ± 2401.9 mL) as compared with PCI 0–10 (2631.2 ± 1459.9 mL) and PCI 10–20 (3964.65 ± 2044.6 mL) (p ≤ 0.01). Patients with PCI > 20 also had a prolonged ICU stays (median: 4 days) as compared with PCI 0–20 (median: 3 days). However, these differences were not significant in patients with PCI between 10 and 20. Significant differences in CI and SVI were observed among PCI groups during and after HIPEC. Significant differences were also observed among PCI groups for postoperative complications. Although 30‐day survival rates varied clinically, they did not reach statistical significance.

Conclusion: A higher PCI score was significantly associated with increased duration of surgery, fluid requirements, the need for invasive hemodynamic monitoring, postoperative complications, and longer ICU stays. Tailoring perioperative strategies based on PCI scores has the potential to optimize these outcomes.

Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02754115.
Essential Oils as Natural Food Preservatives: Special Emphasis on Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Activities
Authors: Noshirvani Nooshin
Published: December 2024

Microbial contamination, chemical reactions like auto‐oxidation, and physical damages are the main factors that can restrict the shelf life of food products. Using chemical additives is a common way to control these reactions; however, some of them are carcinogenic and consumers demand natural agents. These drawbacks prompt manufacturers to seek healthier alternatives to chemical preservatives. Essential oils (EOs) are secondary aromatic metabolites of plants that are familiar as ethereal or volatile oils and contain various chemical components. They are extracted from plants through hydrodistillation and possess excellent antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, making them ideal natural preservatives for food products. EOs and their components have exhibited high antimicrobial properties toward different pathogenic and spoilage microorganisms containing Gram‐negative and Gram‐positive species, mycobacteria, yeasts, and molds. Research has explored using of EOs in various food products, as well as their application in packaging. The use of EOs as preservatives in food products is indeed promising due to their natural antimicrobial properties. However, their application is often hindered by the strong flavor and aroma profiles associated with these oils, which may not be suitable for all food products. This flavor intensity can be particularly challenging, especially for products that need to maintain a subtle or specific taste profile. By using encapsulation, active packaging, hurdle technology, etc., the applied dose is reduced which can further reduce the negative effects of EOs on sensorial properties. This review aims to highlight EOs as superior antimicrobial and antioxidant agents for increasing the quality and safety of different food products.
Assessing Critical Care Nurse’s Knowledge and Adherence to Evidence‐Base Guidelines for Ventilator‐Associated Pneumonia Prevention in Palestinian Hospitals
Authors: Ahmad Al-Nawaja’a Ismael , Salameh Basma , Toqan Dalia , Hammad Bahaaeddin M. , Fashafsheh Imad
Published: December 2024

Background: Patients in critical care units who are connected to mechanical ventilators (MV) often face the risk of ventilator‐associated pneumonia (VAP). Therefore, the aim of current study is to describe critical care nurses’ knowledge and adherence to evidence‐base guidelines (EBGs) for preventing the occurrence of VAP.

Methodology: A cross‐sectional study was applied. Data were collected through a self‐administered questionnaire completed by all critical care nurses (n = 213) working at Palestinian hospitals. Descriptive and inferential statistic was utilized to describe ICU nurse’s knowledge and adherence to VAP prevention EBGs.

Results: The study revealed that the mean knowledge score for critical care nurses was (50.8%). Overall, the findings indicated that nurses’ knowledge of VAP guidelines was at an average level. A statistically significant difference (p value = 0.049) in the knowledge level was observed based on nurses’ qualifications. On the other hand, the study found that nurses’ adherence to EBGs was an acceptable (mean = 8.3, 69.2%). No substantial differences in adherence level were identified based on respondents’ characteristics.

Conclusion: Critical care nurses possess an average level of knowledge regarding EBGs for preventing VAP, alongside demonstrating an acceptable level of adherence to these guidelines.
Resilience in Solitude: A Review of Loneliness and Its Impact on Nurses’ Wellbeing
Authors: Nashwan Abdulqadir J. , Alsalamah Yasir S. , Abu-Mahfouz Mohammad S. , Palanivelu Prakash , Masoud Ahmed , Baker Rasha Abu , Fradelos Evangelos C.
Published: December 2024

The issue of loneliness among nurses is of considerable importance, with potential ramifications extending beyond the well‐being of the individuals involved to the quality of patient care delivered. This review explores the topic in‐depth, guided by the recognition that the considerable influence of loneliness on nurses’ welfare warrants extensive examination and evaluation. The rationale for undertaking this review is to understand and communicate the wide‐reaching implications of loneliness within the nursing profession. In this narrative review, we tried to elucidate the prevalence, causes, and impacts of loneliness among nurses globally. We explored various theoretical frameworks and empirical studies to illuminate the factors contributing to loneliness within this population and analyzed the prevalence rates with other professions. The review further discussed the consequences of loneliness on nurses’ physical and mental health, job performance, and financial and systemic implications for healthcare institutions. It evaluates the role of the workplace environment. It explores various coping strategies and interventions to manage loneliness, including self‐help techniques, formal support structures, workplace programs, and technology‐based solutions. The review revealed that factors influencing loneliness include social, environmental, and cultural elements. Studies highlight that being widowed, divorced, older, male, or from an immigrant background, low physical activity, unemployment, low income, and poor‐quality relationships are significant predictors of loneliness. Physical health issues like chronic illnesses and mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety also contribute to feelings of loneliness among nurses. We also forward recommendations for healthcare institutions, policy changes, and future research needs, ultimately underscoring the importance of addressing loneliness among nurses. The review concludes with a call to action for all stakeholders to prioritize the emotional well‐being of nurses, fostering a healthcare environment that nurtures resilience and thereby enhances the quality of patient care.
Multivariate Analysis of Genetic Diversity Among Sugarcane Clones (Saccharum spp.)
Authors: Tesfa Melaku , Tena Esayas , Kebede Mulugeta
Published: December 2024

Comprehensive information about genetic diversity in germplasm collection is crucial to efficiently using genetic resources in crop improvement programs. This study used multivariate analysis to assess the genetic diversity of 144 sugarcane genotypes in quantitative traits. The experiment was conducted using a partially balanced lattice design with two replications. Sixteen quantitative traits were measured, including sprouting percentage, tiller count, stalk count, stalk height, stalk diameter, number of internodes, single cane weight, cane yield, sugar yield, Brix%, Pol%, Purity%, Sucrose%, leaf area, leaf width, and leaf length. The data were subjected to univariate and multivariate analyses using SAS and R software, respectively. The analysis of variance depicted significant differences between genotypes in all traits considered. The first four main components contributed 81.44% of the overall variation. PC1 reflected the yield potential of each genotype, whereas PC2 revealed the quality potential of each genotype. The cluster analysis divided the total of 144 genotypes into five distinct clusters regardless of their geographic origin, suggesting the exchange of germplasm between countries that grow sugarcane. Cluster I expressed the highest mean value for stalk height and sugar yield traits; cluster II for sprouting, tiller count, stalk count, single cane weight, number of internodes, and cane yield; cluster III for Pol%, Sucrose%, and Brix%; cluster IV for purity; and cluster V for stalk diameter, leaf width, and leaf area. These findings indicated the existence of significant phenotypic variation between the tested genotypes, and the selection of diverse parents from these clusters could enhance breeding programs by using the maximum heterotic potential and broadening the genetic base through variability in segregant progeny. In conclusion, multivariate analyses successfully revealed the genetic variation among the sugarcane genotypes studied.
Table 2 from Identification of ncRNA Biomarkers in Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer to Address Racial Disparities
Authors: Gao Lu , Dhilipkannah Pushpa , Jiang Feng
Published: December 2024

Characteristics of a validation set of patients with NSCLC and cancer-free smokers
Supplementary Table 2 from Identification of ncRNA Biomarkers in Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer to Address Racial Disparities
Authors: Gao Lu , Dhilipkannah Pushpa , Jiang Feng
Published: December 2024

Supplementary Table 2. Among lung cancer patients and cancer-free smokers, 33 ncRNAs showed significantly differential expression in plasma or sputum, irrespective of racial background, as analyzed by the Mann-Whitney U test, with a False Discovery Rate (FDR)-adjusted p-value of less than 0.05.
The Role of Financial Performance in Moderating the Influence of Corporate Governance on Company Value
Authors: Tilofa Livia , Nidia Anggreni Das  , Rita Dwi Putri
Published: December 2024

This study aims to explore and assess how Financial Performance moderates the impact of Corporate Governance on Company Value. Corporate governance is represented by managerial ownership, institutional ownership, and the remuneration committee. The study focuses on manufacturing companies in the basic industrial and chemical sectors listed on the IDX between 2018 and 2022. A purposive sampling technique was employed to select 140 samples for analysis. Structural Equation Modeling-Partial Least Square (SEM-PLS) through SmartPLS 3.0 software was utilized for data analysis. The findings indicate that Managerial Ownership and Institutional Ownership do not have a significant partial effect on Company Value, while the Remuneration Committee does influence Company Value. Interestingly, Managerial Ownership and Institutional Ownership do not directly impact Company Value, even when moderated by Financial Performance.
Clinical Correlates of Efficacy of Pyridostigmine in the Treatment of Orthostatic Hypotension
Authors: Okamoto Luis E. , Walsh Emily , Diedrich Andre , Shibao Cyndya A. , Gamboa Alfredo , Black Bonnie K. , Paranjape Sachin Y. , Muldowney James A. , Habermann Ralf , Peltier Amanda , Tarpara Kishan , Biaggioni Italo
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND:

The cholinesterase inhibitor pyridostigmine is used to treat orthostatic hypotension by facilitating cholinergic neurotransmission in autonomic ganglia, thereby harnessing residual sympathetic tone to increase blood pressure (BP) preferentially in the upright posture. We hypothesized that less severe autonomic impairment was associated with greater pressor responses to pyridostigmine.

METHODS:

To identify predictors of pressor response, linear regression analyses between the effect of pyridostigmine on upright BP and markers of autonomic impairment were retrospectively conducted on 38 patients who had a medication trial with pyridostigmine (60 mg single dose).

RESULTS:

Pyridostigmine increased upright BP by 4±2/3±2 mm Hg but with a wide range of responses (−20/−15 to 29/27 mm Hg; interquartile range, −6/−4 to 11/8 mm Hg). No differences were found between multiple system atrophy (n=14) and patients with pure autonomic failure (n=24). The upright BP response to pyridostigmine was negatively correlated with supine BP and with the pressure recovery time of the Valsalva maneuver, an index of severity of autonomic impairment. In patients with multiple system atrophy, the systolic blood pressure pressor response to pyridostigmine was also positively correlated with the increase in upright heart rate divided by the fall in systolic blood pressure (∆ heart rate/∆ systolic blood pressure) and with upright plasma norepinephrine, both surrogates of residual autonomic function.

CONCLUSIONS:

Patients with less severe autonomic impairment are more likely to have a positive pressor response to pyridostigmine. Importantly, in this cohort of patients with severe autonomic failure, pyridostigmine was not effective in those with supine hypertension who would benefit the most from the preferential pressor effect of the drug on upright BP.

REGISTRATION:

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT00223691.
Inflammatory Markers and Measures of Cardiovascular Autonomic Neuropathy in Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Ang Lynn , Gunaratnam Sejal , Huang Yiyuan , Dillon Brendan R. , Martin Catherine L. , Burant Aaron , Reiss Jacob , Blakely Pennelope , Vasbinder Alexi , Zhao Lili , Mizokami‐Stout Kara , Tang Yaling , Feldman Eva L. , Doria Alessandro , Spino Cathie , Banerjee Mousumi , Hayek Salim S. , Pop‐Busui Rodica
Published: December 2024

Background

Cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy (CAN) and inflammation predict more severe outcomes in type 1 diabetes (T1D). However, the link between CAN and inflammation in T1D remains unclear. We examined associations between CAN measures and inflammatory biomarkers in individuals with T1D.

Methods and Results

In a cross‐sectional study, we measured cardiovascular autonomic reflex tests and heart rate variability (established CAN measures) and a panel of 39 inflammatory biomarkers, including soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (suPAR), in T1D participants of the TINSAL‐T1DN (Targeting Inflammation with Salsalate in Individuals with T1D Neuropathy) trial (n=57, discovery), and the PERL (Preventing Early Renal Loss in Diabetes) trial (n=468, validation). Amongst 39 inflammatory biomarkers measured in TINSAL‐T1DN, suPAR levels had the strongest negative correlations with CAN measures: expiration/inspiration (
r
=−0.48), Valsalva (
r
=−0.28), 30:15 (
r
=−0.37), SD of the normal RR interval (
r
=−0.37), and root mean square of differences of successive RR intervals (
r
=−0.31) (all
P
<0.05). Findings were validated in PERL. In unadjusted analyses, median suPAR levels significantly differed between the lowest and highest SD of the normal RR interval tertiles (3.79 versus 3.12 ng/mL,
P
<0.001) and root mean square of differences of successive RR intervals (3.76 versus 3.17 ng/mL,
P
<0.001). After adjusting for covariates (age, sex, hemoglobin A1c, and estimated glomerular filtration rate), median suPAR values remained significantly elevated in the lowest tertiles of SD of the normal RR interval (
P
=0.004) and root mean square of differences of successive RR intervals (
P
=0.006).

Conclusions

Amongst several inflammatory biomarkers, suPAR, an immune‐mediated glycoprotein, has a singular association with CAN measures. The potential of targeting suPAR as a disease‐modifying approach for CAN in T1D warrants further exploration.

Registration

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifiers: NCT02936843, NCT02017171.
Tropical High Cloud Feedback Relationships to Climate Sensitivity
Authors: Dawson Emma , Schiro Kathleen A.
Published: December 2024

Clouds constitute a large portion of uncertainty in predictions of equilibrium climate sensitivity (ECS). While low cloud feedbacks have been the focus of intermodel studies due to their high variability among global climate models, tropical high cloud feedbacks also exhibit considerable uncertainty. Here, we apply the cloud radiative kernel technique of Zelinka et al. to 22 models across the CMIP5 and CMIP6 ensembles to survey tropical high cloud feedbacks and analyze their relationship to ECS. We find that the net high cloud feedback and its altitude and optical depth feedback components are significantly positively correlated with ECS in the tropical mean. On the other hand, the tropical mean high cloud amount feedback is not correlated with ECS. These relationships are most pronounced outside of areas of strong climatological ascent, suggesting the importance of thin cirrus feedbacks. Finally, we explore connections between high cloud feedbacks, climate sensitivity, and mean state high cloud properties. In general, high ECS models are cloudier in the upper troposphere but have a thinner high cloud population. Moreover, we find that having more thin cirrus in the mean state relates to more positive high cloud altitude and optical depth feedbacks, and it either amplifies or dampens the high cloud amount feedback depending on the large-scale dynamical regime (amplifying in descent and dampening in ascent). In summary, our analysis highlights the importance of tropical high cloud feedbacks for driving intermodel spread in ECS and suggests that mean state high cloud characteristics might provide a unique opportunity for observationally constraining high cloud feedbacks.

Significance Statement

Clouds play an important role in modulating the effects of climate change through feedback processes involving changes to their amount, altitude, and opacity. In this study, we seek to understand how changes to tropical high clouds under warming are related to the magnitude of warming that global climate models simulate. We find that tropical high cloud feedbacks robustly relate to the amount of warming a model predicts and that warmer models tend to have a thinner tropical high cloud climatology. Our results highlight a potential opportunity to form a new constraint using these relationships in order to narrow the spread of warming estimates among global climate models.
Synoptic Cross-Shore Movements of Outer Salinity Fronts in China’s Changjiang River Plume
Authors: Ma Yameng , Yin Wenbin , Huang Daji , Xuan Jiliang , He Yuqing , Meng Qicheng , Wei Yi , Zhou Feng , Chen Jianfang
Published: December 2024

Remote sensing observations reveal strong differences in winter cross-shore movements of the outer salinity fronts between the midfield and far-field regions outside China’s Changjiang River plume. However, the characteristics, mechanisms, and associated water exchanges of these outer fronts remain unclear. Based on 7-yr buoy salinity observations and a high-resolution model, we investigate periods of synoptic (∼9–13 days) variation and the spring–neap tidal cycle for outer fronts in the midfield and far field. Their cross-shore movements manifest as oscillations in the midfield and an alternation of single and double fronts in the far field. In the midfield, the cross-shore frontal oscillations occur with in-phase salinity variations on opposite sides of the front, indicating a balance between brackish plume water and offshore saline water. The replenishment of low-salinity water from the near field to this region induces significant stratification of seawater, making the entire surface layer highly buoyant and susceptible to modulation by tidal and wind-driven advection. In the far field, the alternations of single and double fronts are accompanied by antiphase salinity variations on opposite sides of the front. During strong downwelling winds, a single front occurs when coastal salinity decreases due to the southward expansion of plume, and offshore salinity increases due to wind-driven onshore transport. During weak downwelling winds, a double front is generated by the combined action of advection and vertical mixing. The salinity in the coastal branch of the double front increases at this time, providing evidence that saline Taiwan warm water can intrude into the coastal area when the offshore branch spreads further offshore.

Significance Statement

The Changjiang River plume extends to the whole coastal area of the East China Sea due to the wintertime downwelling wind, resulting in a widespread outer salinity front zone of more than 300 km from the midfield to far field. Such outer fronts’ natural movements and synoptical variation in their locations signal the transport of water masses and nutrients, which is crucial for shelf ecology. In this study, buoy data and a high-resolution model show that midfield and far-field regions differ strongly in the characteristics and mechanisms of front movement, as well as the associated water exchanges. Accordingly, we divide the outer fronts into an advective front in midfield mainly driven by advection and a mixing front in the far field additionally driven by mixing.
Posteruptive Loss of Proteins in Porcine Enamel
Authors: Karaaslan H. , Walker A.R. , Gil-Bona A. , Depalle B. , Bidlack F.B.
Published: December 2024

Tooth enamel maturation requires the removal of proteins from the mineralizing enamel matrix to allow for crystallite growth until full hardness is reached to meet the mechanical needs of mastication. While this process takes up to several years in humans before the tooth erupts, it is greatly accelerated in the faster-developing pigs. Pig teeth erupt with softer, protein-rich enamel that is similar to hypomineralized human enamel but continues to harden quickly after eruption. Proteins that bind to enamel crystals and prevent crystal growth and enamel hardening (e.g., albumin) have been suggested as a cause for hypomineralized human enamel. It is unclear whether fast posteruptive enamel hardening in pigs occurs despite the high protein content or requires facilitated protein loss for crystal growth. This study asked how the protein content in porcine enamel changes after eruption in relation to saliva. Given previous evidence of high albumin content in erupted porcine enamel, we hypothesized that enamel- and saliva-derived enzymes facilitate protein removal from porcine enamel after eruption. To test this, we analyzed the enamel of fourth primary premolars and the saliva proteome at 3 critical time points: at the time of tooth eruption and 2 and 6 weeks after eruption. We found a decrease in the number of proteins and their abundancy in enamel with posteruptive time, including a decrease in serum albumin within enamel. The rapid decrease within 2 weeks posteruption is consistent with the previously reported rapid increase in mineral density of porcine enamel after eruption. In addition to enamel proteases KLK-4 and MMP-20, we identified other serine-, cysteine-, aspartic-, and metalloproteases in enamel that are found in the porcine saliva. Our findings suggest that the fast posteruptive enamel maturation in the porcine model coincides with saliva exchange and influx of saliva enzymes into porous enamel.
The boundary-work of volunteering and the value of unwaged work in the dual crisis of care
Authors: Dowling Emma
Published: December 2024

Based on qualitative research into formal volunteering in semi-rural towns in the north-east and south-west of Germany, this article analyses the consequences of a turn to volunteering in the German welfare regime. The article explores the meaning and function of volunteering for volunteers, organisations and the welfare regime, and identifies a series of conflicting goals. While fiscal pressures and staff shortages may lead to an instrumental resort to volunteering, its value is repeatedly constituted by the fact that it is not waged or professionalised work. Individuals often seek out volunteering opportunities to (re)claim their autonomy or assert the value of care, in some cases to compensate for the frustrations of the neoliberal restructuring of care work. However, volunteers also provide components of caring squeezed out of waged care work due to this restructuring. Moreover, volunteers do not always substitute components of waged work, they also step in where previously there might have been a family member to help someone. The article discusses the value of practices of volunteering through the subjective interpretations of volunteers and coordinators to show how these conflicting goals provoke three types of boundary-work that define the remit of volunteering: (1) claims to volunteering as unique; (2) volunteering as compensatory activity; (3) the defence of volunteering through closure and resignification. The article suggests that volunteering in part stabilises a dual crisis of care, understood as a crisis of waged care work and of social reproduction, without offering a sustainable solution.