bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel application of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells combined with hepatocyte growth factor on subacute vocal fold wound healing
Authors: Xu En‐Hong , Meng Xin‐Jun , Wang Tian‐Yu , Wu Shun‐Yu , Liu Huan‐Hai , Lang Jun‐Tian
Published: September 2024

Objectives

Vocal fold (VF) scar causes solemn vocal problems for patients with previous surgery or laryngeal injury. It is also a difficult management problem for clinicians since rare superior management methods are available at present. Previous research usually focuses on the acute period of VF wound repairing, with little attention on subacute period intervention. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSCs) and hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) combinations that are applied to treat VF wounds are rarely reported. The current study investigated the effects of BMMSCs‐HGF application on the regeneration of the VF mucosa during the subacute period.

Methods

A bilateral wound was generated by forceps in the VF of each New Zealand White rabbit. BMMSCs are based on the acellular dermal matrix as cell carriers. Various compounds (BMMSCs‐AMD complex with or without HGF) was injected into the wounded VF at 2‐ or 4‐weeks following injury. Animals were killed at 60 days postinjection. Imaging of excised larynges was performed with the transmission electron microscope (TEM), and Immunohistochemical (IHC) analysis was also conducted.

Results

Collectively, 18 rabbits accepted injury modeling, with two of them died before repairing intervention. IHC results indicated that type‐I collagen was significantly devalued in the cluster injected with BMMSCs‐HGF than simple application of BMMSCs. The results of TEM suggested that the BMMSCs‐HGF injection can significantly reduce the collagen score.

Conclusion

Our preliminary study suggests opening regenerative effects of intervention for VF subacute scaring, with BMMSCs‐HGF.
Enhanced slit methodology for characterization of x‐ray focal properties
Authors: Dazheng Wang , Mingzhang Chu , Li Han
Published: September 2024

The measurement of focal spot sizes in industrial x‐ray tubes using conventional edge and slit methods typically requires complex slit diaphragms and auxiliary testing equipment. Additionally, stringent spatial‐positioning requirements are imposed on the x‐ray tube, auxiliary testing equipment, and detector, making the machining of auxiliary testing equipment and meeting test conditions challenging. This study optimized and improved the auxiliary testing equipment and computations in the slit method based on the principles of the edge method. An experimental setup capable of self‐calibrating the spatial positions was designed, avoiding measurement errors during focal‐spot‐size measurements. We derived a formula for the focal spot size for this experimental setup, allowing measurements using slits of various sizes. Furthermore, we proposed a method for determining the focal spot size through linear fitting of multiple sets of slit dimensions and projected widths of the focal spot on the detector. This approach filters out random noise and errors during data collection, significantly enhancing measurement precision. By adjusting the slit and detector angles, we could measure the focal spot sizes at various angles and draw contour maps of the focal spot shape. This method was applied to measure the focal spot size and shape of a side‐window x‐ray tube under different voltage conditions. The overall measurement error was less than 6%, reflecting the reliability, accuracy, and consistency of the results obtained using the proposed method. Thus, the proposed method supports the inspection, verification, and maintenance of x‐ray sources.
Diversity Accommodation and Fiscal Federalism: Relevance of the Topic and Rationale for Case Selection
Authors: Romero Caro Francisco Javier , Valdesalici Alice
Published: September 2024

The accommodation of diversity is one of the greatest challenges that modern societies must face. In addition, today, many federal systems encounter a loss of solidarity and an upsurge of interregional disparities. These have exacerbated dormant tensions and intergovernmental conflicts that, in certain cases, could even give rise to secessionist movements. Multilevel government (either in federal or regional form) plays a key role in managing diversity and reducing the risk of secession. This has led to decentralization being presented by some scholars as the antidote for secessionist/nationalist movements. However, contrasting views also spice up the debate. Moreover, history has not proven any one of these theories. Although conflicts and secessionism arise from multiple factors, traditionally, the literature on diversity accommodation has predominantly focused on differences from ethnonational, cultural, linguistic, or religious diversity and not on the economic driver for autonomy or national recognition. The study of fiscal instruments and financial relations (i.e., fiscal federalism) has, for the most part, been left aside, even though the latter has a critical role in this respect. Although the financial dimension is a vital component of any system of shared government, as the lack of resources to finance constitutionally assigned competences would render these inoperable, reducing autonomy to an empty vessel, the nexus between diversity accommodation and fiscal federalism remains to a large extent understudied. In addition, the financial dimension is almost never mentioned in the literature on diversity accommodation. Along the same line, fiscal federalism has been analyzed from other angles, paying attention to matters such as the allocation of financial resources and the powers thereof, as well as the functioning of financial relations among different levels of government, but without drawing much interest from the literature on nationalism and minority accommodation and to the contribution the first could give to the latter (and vice versa) in terms of research advancements.
The United Kingdom’s Territorial Funding Arrangement: A Holding Together Tool?
Authors: Romero Caro Francisco Javier
Published: September 2024

The accommodation of territorial diversity is one of the biggest challenges that modern societies must face nowadays, especially in a context where secessionist movements are on the rise. Multilevel government plays a key role in managing diversity and reducing the risk of secession. The fiscal dimension is a vital component of any system of shared government as the lack of financial resources to finance constitutionally assigned competences would render them inoperable, reducing autonomy to an empty vessel. However, the use of fiscal instruments to accommodate diversity and reduce the risk of secession has barely been explored. Against this background, this chapter explores, from a legal perspective, the internal architecture of the United Kingdom’s territorial funding arrangement, the Barnett formula, with the aim of investigating its integrative and disintegrative effects in relation to Scotland. This is done on the hypothesis that redistribution mechanisms: raise the cost of secession in subunits that are net receivers of funds; have an integrating function as they promote economic development and cohesion; and tend to enhance a sense of belonging and solidarity among constituent units by fostering national unity. The chapter focuses on all sources of law, including also secondary legislation, with the final aim of evaluating if and to what extent the Barnett formula can be conceived as an instrument of nation building that contributes to reducing territorial tensions and accommodating diversity, in the end reversing disintegrative trends. This is done through the evaluation of the integrative and disintegrative potentials of each of the elements of the internal architecture of equalization mechanisms.
Conditional Concessions and Cessation of Secession: What Role for Fiscal Federalism?—Insights from India
Authors: Sharma Chanchal Kumar
Published: September 2024

Fiscal constitutions play a key role in shaping perceptions that impact secession demands through fiscal autonomy and equalization. This study finds that the absence of fiscal equalization fosters anxiety in low-income states, while excessive equalization demoralizes high-income states. However, secessionist movements are only incited in the presence of an ethnic-economic overlap and the perception of economic deprivation and political disempowerment among minorities. Economic injustice often serves as the initial catalyst, politicizing insecure minorities and propelling them to seek institutional means to express their grievances. Yet, when state systems fail to provide these channels, ethnic or religious minorities may resort to violence. The central government can only negotiate through concessions until military confrontation escalates. Once military suppression begins, it tends to reinforce the very forces it seeks to suppress, and the secessionist crisis enters a vicious cycle of reinforcement. However, when militants surrender—as in Assam’s case—it halts counterinsurgency operations and triggers concessions. Contrastingly, in Punjab, militants unwaveringly demanded independence and refused concessions. Thus, when the military eventually quelled the movement, the central government had no incentive to offer concessions. Finally, if military confrontations are prolonged due to continuous internal and external support for the militants, any previously granted concessions are retracted to undermine the militancy’s support base, as in the cases of Jammu and Kashmir. The region’s special privileges, afforded by Article 370, have been annulled, and its status has been downgraded from a state to a union territory, placing it under direct central administration.
ICP-OES analysis of Lithium in honey, royal jelly, bee bread, propolis, and bees following microwave-assisted sample preparation
Authors: Richter Annemarie , Rüdiger Max , Schumacher David M. , Kürbis Corinna
Published: September 2024

Lithium is a natural, ubiquitously-occurring alkali metal found in varying amounts in foods like honey. Recently, lithium chloride (LiCl) was described to be effective against varroosis, a parasitic disease leading to loss of honey bee colonies with limited therapy options. However, LiCl treatment is not currently authorized for use in honey bee colonies. Such treatment might result in elevated lithium amounts in honey. To address this, a robust method for quantifying lithium in honey was validated using a microwave-assisted digestion technique combined with Inductively Coupled Plasma-Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES), achieving detection levels as low as 0.151 mg/kg. The method was applied to 65 commercially available, randomly chosen honey samples, all of which had lithium levels below the limit of quantitation (LOQ). Furthermore, the method was successfully adapted for use with more complex bee matrices, including royal jelly, bee bread, propolis, and whole bees.
Trochleaplastik mit Vicryl-Fäden
Authors: Runer Armin , Nardelli Paul , Becher Christoph , Liebensteiner Michael
Published: September 2024

Eine hochgradige Trochleadysplasie ist der primäre Risikofaktor einer patellofemoralen Instabilität und wird häufig mittels vertiefender Trochleaplastik (Trochlea-Osteotomie) behandelt. Bei der im deutschen Sprachraum weit verbreiteten „Thin-flap-Technik“ wird der gebildete osteochondrale Lappen mittels Vicryl-Tapes (Ethicon, Cornelia, GA, USA) fixiert und stabilisiert. Durch die Einstellung der Produktion der Vicryl-Tapes bedarf es einer Modifikation der ursprünglichen Technik. Die nachfolgend vorgestellte Operationstechnik beschreibt eine alternative Fixationsmethode mit fünf resorbierbaren Fadenpaaren anstelle der Tapes.
In-process, real-time monitoring of forming forces in rotary draw bending process
Authors: He Xu , Welo Torgeir , Ma Jun
Published: September 2024

Monitoring forming forces in metal forming processes is essential for analyzing process behaviors, mechanisms, and defect detection. This is particularly relevant in aluminum tube bending processes, where the dimensional quality of the formed product is sensitive to multiple upstream and in-process variables. This research presents a method for real-time, in-process monitoring of forming forces in rotary draw bending (RDB). By developing a set of innovative forming tools (clamp die, bend die, pressure die, etc.) with directional force sensors embedded, key forming forces are measured. Through a series of experiments, the measurement method was validated by analyzing both measured forces and calculated moments, demonstrating high measurement consistency. The systematic examination of measurement variations provided insights into the reliability and robustness of the method. Moreover, comparison with FE results supported the accuracy of the measurements. Additionally, laser-based measurements showed a good correlation between the measured springback angle and the calculated moment during bending. These findings lay the groundwork for the industrial implementation of in-process force measurements in RDB, advancing the production of tube components.
Development of a patient-centered app in Germany as a special health and organizational support by surveying patients with cardiovascular diseases
Authors: Oettinger Vera , Zimmermann Julia , von zur Mühlen Constantin , Kaier Klaus , Faber Thomas , Paulus Timo , Heidt Timo , Westermann Dirk , Zehender Manfred
Published: September 2024

Background

A variety of health-related mobile applications (apps) and wearables often encompass a narrow application area. Our study therefore aims to provide the basis for the development of an app that comprehensively assists patients to deal with their disease in the best possible way and that improves the course of the disease in the long term.

Methods

We conducted a multicenter analysis of patients using a questionnaire study at two German clinics and surveyed 100 patients with cardiovascular disease. For the analysis of the interviews, particularly Likert scales were used.

Results

24.0% were female, median age was 62.5 years. Leading causes for hospitalization were coronary artery disease (40.0%) and heart failure (22.0%). The most frequent pre-existing conditions were arterial hypertension (55.0%), atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter (31.0%), and again coronary artery disease (31.0%). Typical disease associated feelings were fear for life (43.0%) and uncertainty (43.0%). When considering future management of the disease, 75.0% felt motivated, 70.0% felt confident, and 68.0% felt hopeful. Of the patients surveyed, 60.0% indicated a willingness to use the app and another 24.0% were potentially willing to do so. Furthermore, significantly more patients < 63 years stated a willingness or potential willingness to use the app (p = 0.029). For those considering an app usage in general, the most favoured features were a document management (81.8%) and a medication management (65.9%). While only 36.4% indicated that the app could at least partially alleviate their worries, 94.3% expected a reduction in organizational effort. With respect to age groups, there was no significant difference (organizational effort: p = 0.239; worries: p = 0.275).

Conclusions

Particularly younger patients < 63 years with cardiovascular disease show a substantial willingness to use an app as a special health support, particularly in terms of document and medication management. They especially hope for a reduction in organizational effort.

Graphical abstract
Kreislauffähigkeit von Kunststoff-Wahlplakaten
Authors: Steiner Paul , Lasslop Nicole , Weller Fabian , Auer Maximilian , Schmidt Jannick , Woidasky Jörg
Published: September 2024

Plakate sind ein wichtiges Medium der Außenwerbung und werden als Papier- oder Kunststoffplakate millionenfach unter anderem regelmäßig zu Wahlkampfzwecken eingesetzt. Die Publikation stellt zentrale kreislaufwirtschaftliche Informationen zu diesem Anwendungsfeld bereit. Die experimentelle Untersuchung gebrauchter Hohlkammer-Wahlplakate aus Polypropylen (PP) umfasst die Schritte Zerkleinern, Waschen, Entschichten, Extrusion und Spritzguss, deren Effekte auf die werkstoffliche Verwertung des Werkstoffs durch Messungen der Schmelzflussrate (MFR), FTIR-Spektroskopie zur Bestimmung des Carbonyl-Index und Zugversuche quantifiziert werden. Die Ergebnisse deuten auf nur geringe thermooxidative Veränderungen während des Recyclings mit geringen Wirkungen auf die Zugfestigkeit des rezyklierten Polypropylens hin. Deutliche Unterschiede wurden jedoch bei der Bruchdehnung gefunden, sodass aus werkstofflicher Sicht der Einsatz von Waschprozessen für die Aufbereitung gebrauchter Wahlplakate empfohlen werden kann. Grundsätzlich sind gebrauchte Wahlplakate gut für die Kreislaufführung geeignet, auch wenn einzelne Ansätze zum Ökodesign noch auf ihre Umsetzung warten.
Completion of the genome sequence of Oidiodendron maius splipalmivirus 1
Authors: Daghino Stefania , Forgia Marco , Turina Massimo
Published: September 2024

Mycoviruses with an unprecedented genome organization, featuring the RNA-directed RNA polymerase (RdRp) palm domain coding sequence being split into two distinct genome segments, have been found recently in a few fungi and oomycetes of different lineages and have been proposed to be named “splipalmiviruses”. One of these, Oidiodendron maius splipalmivirus 1 (OmSPV1), has been detected in the ericoid mycorrhizal fungus Oidiodendron maius, and it has been proposed to be bisegmented. Here, we complete the genome sequence of this virus by describing a third RNA segment, which is 2000 nt long and whose terminal sequences are identical to those of the other two segments of OmSPV1. This segment contains a single open reading frame that codes for a protein with unknown function and has a low level of sequence identity (47%) to the putative protein encoded by the third segment of another splipalmivirus from Magnaporthe oryzae: Magnaporthe oryzae narnavirus virus 1 (MoNV1). Based on these features, we propose the RNA segment to be the third segment of the OmSPV1 genome.
Reconstructing the Spill Propagation of the Aznalcóllar Mine Disaster
Authors: Sanz-Ramos Marcos , Vales-Bravo Juan José , Bladé Ernest , Sánchez-Juny Martí
Published: September 2024

The mine pond failure of Los Frailes (Aznalcóllar, Spain) was one of the most catastrophic mining-related disasters worldwide. Despite having been analysed from different disciplines, there have been only two attempts to simulate the propagation of the spill. In both cases, the spill was reconstructed using poor or incorrect topographical data, assuming a spilled hydrograph at the breaking point, and considering the fluid as water. In this research, new pre-failure topographical data were obtained combining field data with remote sensing techniques. These data were used to estimate the spilled hydrograph at the breaking point utilising a two-dimensional hydrodynamic numerical tool. Finally, due to the nature of the spilled fluid, two different attempts of reconstructing the spill propagation process of the Aznalcóllar mine disaster were performed. First, the fluid was considered as water with a suspended sediment load (26–660 g/L), i.e. assuming Newtonian fluid flow. Then the fluid was assumed to be mud-like (non-Newtonian fluid flow). These new simulations revealed that using a Newtonian fluid model, such as water with or without sediment, produced the best results in matching observed and simulated data. The non-Newtonian approach (muds) performed poorly. This suggests the spill behaved more like a concentrated sediment-laden flow than a mud-like one, possibly due to changes in fluid behaviour caused by the mine tailings in the pond after the failure.
A survey of video-based human action recognition in team sports
Authors: Yin Hongwei , Sinnott Richard O. , Jayaputera Glenn T.
Published: September 2024

Over the past few decades, numerous studies have focused on identifying and recognizing human actions using machine learning and computer vision techniques. Video-based human action recognition (HAR) aims to detect actions from video sequences automatically. This can cover simple gestures to complex actions involving multiple people interacting with objects. Actions in team sports exhibit a different nature compared to other sports, since they tend to occur at a faster pace and involve more human-human interactions. As a result, research has typically not focused on the challenges of HAR in team sports. This paper comprehensively summarises HAR-related research and applications with specific focus on team sports such as football (soccer), basketball and Australian rules football. Key datasets used for HAR-related team sports research are explored. Finally, common challenges and future work are discussed, and possible research directions identified.
Frank–Wolfe and friends: a journey into projection-free first-order optimization methods
Authors: Bomze Immanuel. M. , Rinaldi Francesco , Zeffiro Damiano
Published: September 2024

Invented some 65 years ago in a seminal paper by Marguerite Straus-Frank and Philip Wolfe, the Frank–Wolfe method recently enjoys a remarkable revival, fuelled by the need of fast and reliable first-order optimization methods in Data Science and other relevant application areas. This review tries to explain the success of this approach by illustrating versatility and applicability in a wide range of contexts, combined with an account on recent progress in variants, both improving on the speed and efficiency of this surprisingly simple principle of first-order optimization.
The Power to Flirt: Power within Romantic Relationships and Its Contribution to Expressions of Extradyadic Desire
Authors: Birnbaum Gurit E. , Kanat-Maymon Yaniv , Zholtack Kobi , Avidan Rafael , Reis Harry T.
Published: September 2024

Power in non-romantic contexts makes people confident in their ability to attract potential partners, increasing their mating motivation and the likelihood of acting on this motivation. Four studies investigated whether perceptions of power within romantic relationships would also activate mating goals, intensifying desires for alternative partners. In Studies 1 and 2, participants underwent power manipulation and then described a sexual fantasy or evaluated photos of attractive strangers. Studies 3 and 4 used face-to-face interaction and daily experiences methods to examine the mechanisms underlying the link between power and extradyadic desires. Overall, high perceived relationship power was associated with increased interest in alternatives. Perceived relative mate value explained this association, suggesting that what determines whether power elicits extradyadic interest is not power perceptions alone but rather the feeling of having a higher mate value than one’s partner that accompanies elevated power and affects whether high-power individuals will prioritize their own needs in ways that may hurt their partners.
Code-based brittle capacity models for seismic assessment of pre-code RC buildings: comparison and consequences on retrofit
Authors: Scala Santa Anna , De Risi Maria Teresa , Verderame Gerardo Mario
Published: September 2024

The existing Reinforced Concrete (RC) buildings stock is often characterized by a significant seismic vulnerability, due to the absence of capacity design principles, even in regions with high seismic hazard, such as Italy. Approximately 67% of existing RC buildings in Italy have been designed without considering seismic actions (GLD), resulting in very low transverse reinforcement amount in beams and, particularly, in columns. Additionally, beam-column joints typically totally lack stirrups. Consequently, shear failures under seismic actions are very likely for this pre-code building typology, often limiting their seismic capacity. However, the assessment of shear failures in beams/columns or joints varies significantly from code to code worldwide. The main goal of this work is to quantify the impact of different code-based brittle capacity models on the seismic capacity assessment and retrofit, focusing on GLD Italian pre-1970 RC buildings. This comparative analysis is carried out by first considering three current codes, emphasizing their, even significant, differences: European (EN 1998-3-1. 2005), Italian (D.M. 2018), and American (ASCE SEI/41 2017) standards. Then, shear capacity models prescribed by the current drafts of the next generation of Eurocodes are implemented and compared to the current models. The assessment includes: (i) a parametric comparison among models; (ii) the evaluation of case-study buildings capacity in their as-built condition and after shear strengthening interventions. The latter is performed on 3D “bare” models, due to the lack of practical guidance in most codes on modelling masonry infills.
Tumor infiltrating lymphocytes and change in tumor load on MRI to assess response and prognosis after neoadjuvant chemotherapy in breast cancer
Authors: Janssen L. M. , de Vries B. B. L. Penning , Janse M. H. A. , van der Wall E. , Elias S. G. , Salgado R. , van Diest P. J. , Gilhuijs K. G. A.
Published: September 2024

Purpose

In this study, we aimed to explore if the combination of tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) and change in tumor load on dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging leads to better assessment of response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) in patients with breast cancer, compared to either alone.

Methods

In 190 NAC treated patients, MRI scans were performed before and at the end of treatment. The percentage of stromal TILs (%TILs) was assessed in pre-NAC biopsies according to established criteria. Prediction models were developed with linear regression by least absolute shrinkage and selection operator and cross validation (CV), with residual cancer burden as the dependent variable. Discrimination for pathological complete response (pCR) was evaluated using area under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUC). We used Cox regression analysis for exploring the association between %TILs and recurrence-free survival (RFS).

Results

Fifty-one patients reached pCR. In all patients, the %TILs model and change in MRI tumor load model had an estimated CV AUC of 0.69 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.53–0.78) and 0.69 (95% CI 0.61–0.79), respectively, whereas a model combining the variables resulted in an estimated CV AUC of 0.75 (95% CI 0.66–0.83). In the group with tumors that were ER positive and HER2 negative (ER+/HER2−) and in the group with tumors that were either triple negative or HER2 positive (TN&HER2+) separately, the combined model reached an estimated CV AUC of 0.72 (95% CI 0.60–0.88) and 0.70(95% CI 0.59–0.82), respectively. A significant association was observed between pre-treatment %TILS and RFS (hazard ratio (HR) 0.72 (95% CI 0.53–0.98), for every standard deviation increase in %TILS, p = 0.038).

Conclusion

The combination of TILs and MRI is informative of response to NAC in patients with both ER+/HER2− and TN&HER2+ tumors.
Comparative Study Between the Effects of High Doses of Rosuvastatin and Atorvastatin on Ventricular Remodeling in Patients with ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Elhadad Zeinab M. , Kassem Amira B. , Amrawy Ahmed Mahmoud El , Salahuddin Ahmad , El-Bassiouny Noha A.
Published: September 2024

Background

Most studies reported that treating ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI) patients with high doses of rosuvastatin or atorvastatin could improve left ventricular remodeling and cardiac function.

Purpose

The current study compared the impact of high doses of rosuvastatin and atorvastatin on hypertrophy, fibrosis markers, serum inflammatory markers, and left ventricular function in STEMI patients after primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Method

After primary PCI, eighty STEMI patients were randomized to receive either 20 mg of rosuvastatin (n = 40) or 40 mg of atorvastatin (n = 40) once daily for 3 months. Soluble Suppression of Tumorigenicity-2 (sST2), Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 (MMP9), C-Reactive Protein (CRP), lipid parameters, liver enzymes, and echocardiographic parameters were assessed for the two groups at baseline and after 3 months.

Results

After 3 months of treatment, a statistically significant reduction was observed in the rosuvastatin group regarding the levels of CRP (16 ± 6 vs. 20 ± 10 mg/L,P = 0.024) and MMP9 (104 ± 33 vs. 130 ± 42 ng/L,P = 0.003) compared with the atorvastatin group. The median percentage decrease in sST2 level in the rosuvastatin group was higher (6.1%) than in the atorvastatin group (2.3%) after 3 months of treatment. Also, in the rosuvastatin group, LVEF was significantly increased (48.5 ± 9 vs. 43.5 ± 11%,P = 0.029), while LVEDV and LVESV were significantly decreased compared to those of the atorvastatin group (101 [81/135] vs. 134 [100/150] ml,P = 0.041) (53 [37/75] vs. 73 [52/92] ml,P = 0.033), respectively.

Conclusion

High-intensity rosuvastatin was superior to high-intensity atorvastatin in reducing the inflammatory response and myocardial fibrosis, thus improving ventricular remodeling and cardiac function better in STEMI patients.

Trial Registration

This randomized controlled trial was registered on October 11, 2022, on ClinicalTrials.gov under registration number: NCT05895123 “retrospectively registered”.
Electronic Surveillance in Immigration Court: Evidence from the CalGang Database
Authors: Muñiz Ana , Owens Emily
Published: September 2024

Through a mixed-methods approach that draws on over 4000 pages of organizational documents and two quantitative data sets from federal and state entities, the authors ask, has the growth of electronic surveillance by local criminal justice agencies, with corresponding database interoperability and information sharing, changed how federal agencies—specifically immigration agencies—operate? We focus on the CalGang Database, California’s statewide gang intelligence database, to document how, since its inception in 1998, CalGang has grown both in the number of individuals under surveillance and the number of what we call adjacent users, which we define as people who can access CalGang data but were not initially intended as users and who, in pre-digital surveillance eras, would have a much more difficult time obtaining the information. In this paper we focus specifically on adjacent users in the immigration system who determine the detention and deportation of noncitizens by leveraging an information sharing agreement that gave U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) access to Calgang between January 2006 and October 2016. Using a two-way “difference in differences” approach, we estimate the impact of CalGang interoperability on federal adjacent users by comparing outcomes across immigration cases that began before or after the data sharing agreement ended. Our qualitative and quantitative analyses both demonstrate that immigration adjudicators’ access to local electronic surveillance information is associated with an increase in the number of immigrants facing criminal immigration charges that do not necessarily require a formal criminal conviction in state court, and that deportation rates are higher when ICE has access to local electronic surveillance.
Flame Retarded Adhesive Tapes and Their Influence on the Fire Behavior of Bonded Parts
Authors: Hupp Vitus , Schartel Bernhard , Flothmeier Kerstin , Hartwig Andreas
Published: September 2024

Pressure-sensitive adhesive tapes are used in automotives, railway vehicles and construction, where flame retardancy is of major importance. This is why industrial applicants often buy, and industrial tape manufacturers often produce, flame-retardant adhesive tapes, advertised for their good flammability characteristics. Yet, how flame-retardant tapes influence the fire behavior of bonded materials is a rather open question. To investigate this issue, three different substrates were bonded, using eight double-sided adhesive tapes containing two different carriers and two different flame retardants. The bonded substrates were compared to their monolithic counterparts in terms of flammability, fire behavior and fire stability. The fire behavior of adhesive tape bonded materials differed significantly from the monolithic substrates. The usage of different adhesive tapes let to different burning behavior of the bonded materials mainly due to different carrier systems. In contrast, the implementation of flame retardant into the adhesive had rather minor or no effect on the burning behavior of the bonded substrates despite their positive effect on the flammability of the free-standing tape. The carrier changed the HRR curve in the cone calorimeter and was able to both, reduce and increase fire hazards. Using the carrier with the better fire performance can lower the fire growth rate by 20%, the peak of heat release rate by 27%, and the maximum average rate of heat emission by 30% in cone calorimeter tests. Overall, the fire behavior of bonded materials is a complex interaction between substrate, adhesive, and carrier, and depends on the fire scenario the materials are exposed to.
Successful Haematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation for LRBA Deficiency with Fludarabine, Treosulfan, and Thiotepa-Based Conditioning
Authors: Shadur Bella , NasserEddin Adeeb , Zaidman Irina , Schejter Yael Dinur , Even-Or Ehud , Berkun Yackov , Meyts Isabelle , Hmedat Hatem , Sulaiman Ashraf , Tangye Stuart G. , Stepensky Polina
Published: September 2024

LRBA deficiency is an inborn error of immunity defined by autoimmunity, lymphoproliferation, recurrent infections, cytopenia, and inflammatory bowel disease. Despite recent advances in managing this disease with targeted biologic therapy, haematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) remains the only cure. However, great variability exists between protocols used to transplant patients with LRBA deficiency. We describe a cohort of seven patients with LRBA deficiency who underwent HSCT using a myeloablative, reduced toxicity regime of fludarabine, treosulfan, and thiotepa at two transplantation centres from 2016 to 2019. Data were collected both retrospectively and prospectively, measuring time to engraftment, infectious complications, incidence of graft versus host disease, and post-transplantation chimerism. Six of seven patients survived transplantation, and four of six surviving patients achieving treatment-free survival. We thus recommend that HSCT with fludarabine, treosulfan, and thiotepa-based conditioning be considered in patients with LRBA deficiency.
Surfaces with Central Configuration and Dulac’s Problem for a Three Dimensional Isolated Hopf Singularity
Authors: Corral Nuria , Martín-Vega María , Sanz Sánchez Fernando
Published: September 2024

Let $$\xi $$
ξ
be a real analytic vector field with an elementary isolated singularity at $$0\in \mathbb {R}^3$$

0
∈

R

3

and eigenvalues $$\pm bi,c$$

±
b
i
,
c

with $$b,c\in \mathbb {R}$$

b
,
c
∈
R

and $$b\ne 0$$

b
≠
0

. We prove that all cycles of $$\xi $$
ξ
in a sufficiently small neighborhood of 0, if they exist, are contained in the union of finitely many subanalytic invariant surfaces, each one entirely composed of a continuum of cycles. In particular, we solve Dulac’s problem for such vector fields, i.e., finiteness of limit cycles.
Antibacterial and Healing Potential of Zn-Al LDHs/Cellulose Acetate Nanocomposite in Burns and Wounds: A Study on Earthworms as a Human Skin Model
Authors: Abd El-Aziz Fatma El-Zahraa A. , Hetta Helal F , Abd Ellah Noura H , Abd El-Aal Mohamed
Published: September 2024

Protection against microbial invasion has gained much attention to accelerate wound healing. Layered double hydroxides (LDHs) have antimicrobial properties due to their partial release of metallic ions. In this study, Zn-Al LDHs was chemically prepared and then supported on cellulose acetate (CA) in the form of nanocomposite. This novel Zn-Al LDHs/CA nanocomposite was in vitro characterized, and its antibacterial efficacy was determined using the agar well diffusion method. Moreover, healing capabilities of the nanocomposite were evaluated via topical application on wounds and burns induced in earthworms as a model of human skin like. The average crystallite sizes of Zn-Al LDHs and 50% Zn-Al/CA nanocomposite were 18.4 nm and 14.8 nm, respectively. TEM micrographs revealed that pure CA, pure Zn-Al LDHs, and 50% Zn-Al LDHs/CA nanocomposites had an average particle size of 27.7 ± 13.5, 296.2 ± 123, and 223.2 ± 83.4 nm, respectively. Pure Zn-Al LDHs showed antibacterial activity against different bacterial strains (Inhibition zone: 15 ± 2 to 20 ± 4 mm). However, when 50% Zn-Al LDHs was supported on CA, the inhibition zone was significantly higher (20 ± 3 to 26 ± 2 mm). Visual inspection, scanning electron microscopy and histological studies of earthworm skin revealed better morphology and shorter healing duration with Zn-Al LDHs/CA nanosystem (66 h for wounds and 144 h for burns) when compared with untreated control (> 400 h). In conclusion, these findings reveal that Zn-Al LDHs/CA nanocomposite is a promising promoter for wound and burn healing due to its biocompatibility and antibacterial activity.
The MISTRAL Instrument and the Characterization of Its Detector Array
Authors: Paiella A. , Cacciotti F. , Isopi G. , Barbavara E. , Battistelli E. S. , de Bernardis P. , Capalbo V. , Carbone A. , Carretti E. , Ciccalotti E. , Columbro F. , Coppolecchia A. , Cruciani A. , D’Alessandro G. , De Petris M. , Govoni F. , Lamagna L. , Levati E. , Marongiu P. , Mascia A. , Masi S. , Molinari E. , Murgia M. , Navarrini A. , Novelli A. , Occhiuzzi A. , Orlati A. , Pappalardo E. , Pettinari G. , Piacentini F. , Pisanu T. , Poppi S. , Porceddu I. , Ritacco A. , Schirru M. R. , Vargiu G.
Published: September 2024

The MIllimeter Sardinia radio Telescope Receiver based on Array of Lumped elements KIDs, MISTRAL, is a cryogenic LEKID camera, operating in the W band ($${77}{-}{103\,\textrm{GHz}}$$

77
-

103

GHz

) from the Gregorian focus of the 64-m aperture Sardinia Radio Telescope (SRT), in Italy. This instrument features a high angular resolution ($$\sim {12\,\textrm{arcsec}}$$

∼

12

arcsec

) and a wide instantaneous field of view ($$\sim {4\,\textrm{arcmin}}$$

∼

4

arcmin

), allowing continuum surveys of the mm-wave sky with many scientific targets, including observations of galaxy clusters via the Sunyaev–Zel’dovich effect. In May 2023, MISTRAL has been installed at SRT for the technical commissioning. In this contribution, we will describe the MISTRAL instrument focusing on the laboratory characterization of its focal plane: a $$\sim {400}$$

∼
400

-pixel LEKID array. We will show the optical performance of the detectors highlighting the procedure for the identification of the pixels on the focal plane, the measurements of the optical responsivity and NEP, and the estimation of the optical efficiency.
Antenna-Coupled Magnetic Microbolometers for CMB Polarization Surveys
Authors: Geria Juan , Almela Alejandro , Bonaparte Juan , Bonilla-Neira Jesús , Ferreyro Luciano , Fuster Alan , García Redondo Manuel , Hampel Matías , Müller Nahuel , Platino Manuel , Salum Juan , Kempf Sebastian , Weber Marc , Etchegoyen Alberto
Published: September 2024

In this work, we propose a magnetic bolometer to be employed in the search of primordial B-modes in the CMB. These magnetic bolometers are an adaptation of the well-known metallic magnetic calorimeters used in particle physics. They rely on the magnetization dependence on temperature of alloys such as Au:Er and Ag:Er. In addition to the low intrinsic noise a magnetic bolometer of this nature offers, the broad and smooth temperature-dependent magnetization of metallic magnetic sensors ultimately translates to a high dynamic range and straightforward calibration. Their intrinsic noise equivalent power (NEP) is estimated to be in the range of 10–100 aW/$$\sqrt{(}\text {Hz})$$

(

Hz
)

. We outline here a workable design for such a detector utilizing an antenna-coupled approach and present the simulated power transfer ratio that was attained; the detector’s performance is discussed by combining this result with its responsivity.
Exploring the potentialities of thermal asymmetries in composite wind turbine blade structures via numerical and thermographic methods: a thermophysical perspective
Authors: Figueiredo A. A. A. , D’Alessandro G. , Perilli S. , Sfarra S. , Fernandes H.
Published: September 2024

Using composite materials in turbine blades has become common in the wind power industry due to their mechanical properties and low mass. This work aims to investigate the effectiveness of the active infrared thermography technique as a non-destructive inspection tool to identify defects in composite material structures of turbine blades. Experiments were carried out by heating the sample and capturing thermographic images using a thermal camera in four different scenarios, changing the heating strategy. Such a preliminary experiments are prodromic to build, in future, the so-called optimal experiment design for thermal property estimation. The experimental results using two heaters arranged symmetrically on the sample detected the presence of the defect through temperature curves extracted from thermal images, where temperature asymmetries of 25% between the regions with and without defect occurred. Moreover, when only a larger heater was used in transmission mode, the defect was detected based on differences between normalized excess temperatures on the side with and without the defect in the order of 20%. Additionally, numerical simulations were carried out to present solutions for improving defect detection. It was demonstrated that active infrared thermography is an efficient technique for detecting flaws in composite material structures of turbine blades. This research contributes to advancing knowledge in inspecting composite materials.
The Barren Berry phenotype: untangling cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon Ait.) genetic contamination in central Wisconsin and beyond
Authors: Lazar F. , Lopez-Moreno H. , Wiesman E. , de la Torre F. , Verhulst P. , Sojka J. , Maureira I. , Millar David , Kennedy C. , Mura J. , Zalapa J.
Published: September 2024

Wisconsin is the world’s leading producer of cranberries (Vaccinium macrocarpon Ait.; 2n = 2x = 24). The state produces over twenty-thousand acres that contribute to more than 50% of the global total production, with more than one billion dollars in value. Cranberry growers in the “central sands” of Wisconsin have been experiencing yield decline due to vegetative unproductive genotypes, popularly known as “Barren Berry’’, which consistently remain vegetative and produce no fruit. The purpose of this study was to compare visual inspection in the field to DNA fingerprinting for the early detection of unproductive/barren genotypes. Additionally, the study served as a survey of unproductive genotypes in central Wisconsin, the largest growing region in the world. A total of 839 cranberry leaf samples, from 14 growers representing plantings to four cultivated varieties, were submitted for DNA testing of two visually determined phenotypes: unproductive or barren (n = 646; those that produced little to no fruit), versus productive or fruiting (n = 193). We conducted genetic fingerprinting on the leaf tissue using nine microsatellite markers previously shown to differentiate cranberry genotypes. This study identified a barren berry genotype unique to central Wisconsin, which we denoted “Barren Berry 1”. This genotype accounted for 43% of samples submitted as the barren berry phenotype. Genetic fingerprinting revealed sixty-five different genotypes in beds which were thought to be monocultures of just four cultivated genotypes. Early detection of genetic contamination through visual inspection, genetic testing, and responsible propagation can drastically aid in the management and longevity of cranberry beds, and in turn save time and money to the growers.
“Once upon a time… a beach sand grain”: a bed-time story and scientific outreach activity for young children to increase sediment literacy
Authors: Ponte Lira Cristina , Valverde Fátima , Matias Ana
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Learning science in early years can cultivate children’s curiosity and enjoyment in exploring the world around them, laying the foundation for the progression of science learning and ultimately increasing science literacy. Here, we present an example of a tailored preschool scientific activity designed to enhance literacy about sediments and illustrate their importance to both humans and nature.

Methods

The activity centres around a captivating story detailing the journey of a sand grain from the mountains to the sea. This storytelling experience is enriched with hands-on observation of various sand grains, informative cards on key topics, and culminates in a creative colouring activity.

Results

To date, the activity has been repeated five times, engaging 110 children (from 2 to 10 years). It has yielded positive outcomes with both preschool and primary school students, as they were actively engaged in the story and delighted in handling and observing the magnified sand grains.

Conclusions

The activity was successfully implemented for preschool and primary school students, fostering engagement with the story and the sand samples. However, while the immediate engagement was evident, the impact on sediment literacy remains to be measured. Future structured evaluations are needed to assess the long-term effectiveness of such initiatives in enhancing sediment literacy among young learners.
A Scoping Review of the Utilization of Opioid Use Treatment, Harm Reduction, and Culturally Tailored Interventions Among Racial/Ethnic Minorities in the United States
Authors: Ezell Jerel M. , Simek Elinor , Shetty Netra , Pho Mai T. , Bluthenthal Ricky N. , Goddard-Eckrich Dawn A. , Choi Sugy
Published: September 2024

As part of a multilayered scoping review, we assessed literature on prevention and management interventions for racial/ethnic minorities in the United States (US) who non-medically use prescription opioids and/or who use illicit opioids such as heroin. The review specifically focused on access to and uptake of medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) and harm reduction resources. We conducted a scoping review of peer-reviewed literature and governmental reports published between January 2000 and August 2024 on patterns of access to, and acceptability and utilization of, overdose prevention and opioid use management resources among racial/ethnic minorities in the US. Searches were conducted on Cochrane, PubMed, Embase, and Google Scholar, with us examining studies on the uptake of MOUD, such as buprenorphine and methadone, syringe services programs (SSPs), safe consumption sites, and harm reduction resources like naloxone (used to reverse overdoses) and fentanyl test strips (used to test for the presence of fentanyl in drug supplies). Additionally, we sought to identify and describe existing interventions for opioid use prevention and management that have expressly incorporated cultural adaptations related to racial/ethnic minorities’ specific needs and preferences in an effort to improve participants' sense of salience and acceptability and thus enhance utilization. We further endeavored to leverage this scoping review towards the development of research and intervention guidelines contoured to improve future scholarship and programming with these populations. The existing evidence suggests that racial/ethnic minorities in the US, specifically Black individuals, have diminished access to and/or utilization of preventive and management resources and amenities such as buprenorphine and naloxone, owing to structural deficits, provider bias, socioeconomic obstacles, geographic barriers, and communal stigma and distrust. Black individuals, relative to White individuals, also appear less likely to report using SSPs to obtain syringes and related resources, but across racial groups, those who used SSPs were more likely to be trained in, possess, and/or use naloxone. Further, there have been very few culturally tailored interventions for harm reduction or MOUD; there were limited data across the reviewed works on Native American/Indigenous or Asian populations; and the broader body of literature lacks methodological rigor. We close by proposing a cultural humility-focused model for better meeting the complex needs of these populations through research and primary and secondary intervention.