bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improving Reuse During the Development Process for Web Systems
Authors: El-Halawany Ahmed M. , Elminir Hamdy K. , El-Bakry Hazem
Published: August 2024

Software reuse has emerged as a crucial practice in the software industry, offering significant benefits in time-to-market and resources management. This is particularly pertinent in web systems development, where the integration of diverse technologies and the varied backgrounds of technical teams pose substantial challenges. The rapid expansion of web systems underscores the urgent need to adopt best practices and methodologies for web system reuse to streamline the development process, reducing effort, cost, and time. The objective of this paper is to identify the key challenges of web system reuse in the context of small and medium-sized software companies in Egypt and Saudi Arabia. Using qualitative research methods, including interviews, focus groups, and participant observations, we conducted an empirical study to examine current reuse practices, identify, and understand the root causes of common challenges. According to the results of the empirical study, we have developed a systematic approach to enhance web system reuse during the development process in the context of small and medium-sized software companies in Egypt and Saudi Arabia. Our proposed approach fills critical gaps in current practices, offering practical guides to improve efficiency, reduce development time, and enhance overall software quality. This research contributes to the broader discourse on software reuse by providing context-specific insights and adaptable solutions that are relevant to similar markets worldwide.
Benzo[a]pyrene induces pyroptotic colon damage and gut dysbacteriosis by activating Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor
Authors: Jia Yingyu , Meng Yao , Wang Zhulin , Li Hao , Li Jianke , Yuan Li
Published: August 2024

Benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) is a kind of carcinogenic, teratogenic, and immunotoxic injurant in high-temperature processed foods. Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) is widely expressed in various cell types throughout the body and initiates cell death through beginning with ligand binding. AHR plays a crucial role in BaP metabolism. In this study, AHR antagonist CH223191 was used to investigate the toxic effects of BaP on colon tissues in mice by activating AHR. The study revealed that BaP led to an increase in the mRNA expression of inflammatory cytokines (TNF- α, IL-1 β, IL-6, and IL-10) and pyroptosis markers (NF-κB, NLRP3, Caspase-1, and GSDMD) in mouse colon tissues by activating AHR. Similarly, BaP caused a decrease in the levels of ZO-1, MUC2, and Occludi. Furthermore, CH223191 showed promise in mitigating the pyroptotic damage to the colon induced by BaP. Notably, BaP altered the gut microbiota by activating AHR, resulting in a reduction in the abundance of several beneficial bacteria genera, such as Lactobacillus, Bacteroides, Alistipes, and Rikenella, following BaP exposure. However, CH223191 was able to effectively reverse this adverse change. In summary, BaP damaged the intestinal barrier, caused pyroptotic colon damage in mice, and altered the gut microbiota by binding to and activating AHR.
Anti-disturbance Control of Tethered Towed Vehicle with Unknown Time-varying Aerodynamic Parameters and Complex Disturbance
Authors: Bai Jinxin , Meng Zhongjie
Published: August 2024

Due to wind disturbances and various uncertainties, maintaining the stability of a tethered towed flight system is extremely challenging.
This study proposes an anti-disturbance cooperative control scheme for a towed vehicle equipped with a flexible canopy.
The proposed scheme effectively mitigates the impact of time-varying external disturbances, model uncertainties, and state and output constraints.
Unlike existing studies, this paper addresses the unknown time-varying aerodynamic parameters of a tethered towed vehicle for the first time.
Additionally, by integrating an adaptive neural network with a disturbance observer, a composite estimator is developed to tackle the effects of
model uncertainties and time-varying disturbances. The state-constrained problem is addressed using an anti-saturation method based on auxiliary systems.
The uniform boundedness of the controller signal is proven using the Lyapunov method.
Numerical simulations validate the effectiveness of the proposed method in terms of disturbance rejection.
Molecular epidemiolgy of ovine herpesvirus-2 in small ruminants, Sistan region, Iran
Authors: Abdollahi Arya , Saadati Dariush , Rasekh Mehdi , Najimi Mohsen , Sargazi Dariush
Published: August 2024

Malignant catarrhal fever (MCF) is a systemic, sporadic, and fatal viral disease affecting susceptible hosts such as cattle, buffalo, deer, etc. Ovine herpesvirus-2 (OvHV-2) is the main cause of MCF in livestock. OvHV-2 infects sheep and goats asymptomatically, playing a significant role in the virus circulation. in this study the prevalence of OvHV-2 in sheep (n:42) and goats(n:52) through molecular tests conducted in the Sistan region located in the north of Sistan&- Baluchestan province, Iran. OvHV-2 POL and ORF75 Tegument Protein genes were detected in 15/100 samples through Hemi-Nested PCR (15%). BLAST results show 100% identity to the isolations reports from Pakistan (MK852172), Brazil (OP121121), Turkey (MN419921), Egypt (ON952534) and India (OR762746). There was no significant relationship between the virus prevalence and independent variables, including species, age and gender of the animal, clinical symptoms, herd size and location of livestock. These findings indicate that OvHV-2 is circulating in the Sistan region, causing MCF. Since traditional livestock farming is common in the region, carrier species and susceptible hosts are kept together, which is a risk factor for virus transmission to susceptible hosts like cattle. To control and prevent the disease, it is essential to consider separating different livestock species in the region.
The influence of peritumoral parenchyma on local tumor progression of hepatocellular carcinoma after thermal ablation
Authors: Ding Wenzhen , Bi Mingsen , Gao Yongyan , Zheng Lin , Chen JiYe , Liu Fangyi , Yu Jie , Liang Ping
Published: August 2024

Background:
With the increasing importance of thermal ablation (TA) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) treatment, local tumor progression (LTP) has become a nonignorable recurrence type after ablation.
Purposes:
To analyze the influence of peritumoral liver parenchyma on LTP and to explore the possible reasons for this influence
Methods:
Ablated HCCs with peritumoral parenchymal biopsy and ablation margins greater than 5 mm were included from two hospitals. The grade of necroinflammatory activity (G) and stage of fibrosis (S) of the parenchyma were evaluated by Scheuer staging system. Univariate/multivariate Cox model was used to analyze the possible factors influencing LTP. Peritumoral satellite focus rate, ablation energy, ablation volume after treatment, ablation volume after one-month, and volume reduction rate were collected and analyzed to explore the possible reasons for influence. Propensity score matching (PSM) was used to balance baselines across different groups.
Results:
346 HCCs (64 with LTP, 282 without LTP) were enrolled from January 2013 to June 2022, with a median follow-up of 27 months. Univariate/multivariate analysis showed fibrosis was a protective factor in LTP (HR=0.70, 95%CI: 0.55-0.89). The low-fibrosis group exhibited higher satellite focus rate (15.6% vs. 8.4%, p=0.048), lower ablation energy (22637 ± 9424J vs. 33352 ± 13779J, p<0.001) and higher volume reduction rate (0.33±0.06 vs. 0.25±0.06, p<0.001) than the high-fibrosis group. Therefore, we speculated that the protective effect of fibrosis was due to its blocking of tumor invasion and reduction of sublethal zones.
Conclusion:
Fibrosis of the peritumoral liver parenchyma is a stable protective factor in LTP occurrence.
Riskwatch: A Model for Improved Preoperative Risk Assessment of Anesthesia in Medical Science Using Machine Learning
Authors: Kaur Ekaspreet , Kaur Simrata , Singh Harjot , Kaur Bisman , Pannu HS
Published: August 2024

Anesthesia is a medical breakthrough with certain inherent risk factors. This paper presents a system for preoperative assessment of risks associated with anesthesia. To ensure patient safety, managing these risks is a top priority for anesthesiologists. An ever-increasing ratio of the number of surgeries to the number of doctors can inevitably lead to errors in risk judgment. This paper classifies patient data into four risk categories: due risk, low risk, moderate risk, and high risk based on supervised machine learning (ML) models. The data preprocessing technique of binning is applied to segregate the data. Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) is used to compare various supervised ML methods such as K nearest neighbors (KNN), logistic regression (LR), support vector machine (SVM), gradient boosting (GB), decision tree (DT), random forest (RF), and an ensemble model for multi-class classification. Explainable AI techniques like SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) and Local Interpretable Model-Agnostic Explanations (LIME) offered valuable insights into the model’s decision-making process. The study compares ML models trained separately on raw and binned datasets, showing significant improvements in predictive accuracy with binning. The ensemble model achieved 95% accuracy in classifying the test patients using binned data. Our research introduces a ML-based system that can reduce preoperative risk and help anesthesiologists by providing real-time information, thereby enhancing patient safety, and reducing the likelihood of errors in preoperative risk judgment.
Inhibition of type 3 iodothyronine deiodinase enhances differentiation of human induced pluripotent stem cells to β cells
Authors: Maruoka Azusa , Kimura Azuma , Hattori Fumiyuki , Hitomi Hirofumi , Osafune Kenji , Shiojima Ichiro , Toyoda Nagaoki
Published: August 2024

Intracellular triiodothyronine (T3) level is up-regulated by type 2 iodothyronine deiodinase (Dio2), which converts thyroxine (T4) to T3, or is down-regulated by type 3 iodothyronine deiodinase (Dio3), which converts T3 to diiodothyronine. β cells derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) were examined to investigate the potential roles of deiodinases during differentiation of human pancreatic β cells. hiPSCs were differentiated stepwise over 29 days. The T3 level in the differentiated cells was determined by the T3 supplied to the medium, and the Dio3 in the cells as the differentiation medium contained T3 but not T4. The Dio3 expression significantly changed during the differentiation. Iopanoic acid (IOP), an inhibitor of Dio3 activity, was used to investigate the involvement of Dio3 during differentiation. The proportion of β cells that expressed both C-peptide and NKX6 homeobox 1 that differentiated in the presence of IOP (+IOP) on day (D) 29 (D-29) was significantly higher than that expressed in the absence of IOP (−IOP). The insulin content of differentiated+IOP cells on D-29 was significantly higher than that differentiated−IOP cells. These results suggest that Dio3 inhibition by IOP from D-0 to D-29 enhances the differentiation of hiPSCs to β cells.
Electroantennogram and olfactory behavioral responses of adult Nematus hequensis Xiao to volatiles from Salix alba leaves
Authors: Song Zhenhao , Chen Yiqu , Dong Xiao , Sun Zhaoxu , Guo Xinnan , Yu Kun , Tang Xiaoqin , Zang Jiancheng
Published: August 2024

To investigate how leaf volatiles from Salix alba affect the orientation of Nematus hequensis Xiao adults towards host plant in the China, and to contribute to the development of plant-based attractants for N. hequensis, solid-phase microextraction (SPME) coupled with gas chromatograph-mass spectrometer (GC-MS) was employed. This method was used to extract, identify, and screen leaf volatiles of S.alba aged 10–15 years during the peak eclosion period of N. hequensis. Electroantennogram (EAG) and Y-shaped olfactometry assays were utilized to identify volatiles with relative content > 1% and determine the optimal concentration for attracting 1-day-old unmated female and male healthy adults.As a result,The findings revealed that 15 types of volatiles with relative content exceeding 1% included aldehydes, benzenes, esters, olefins, ethers, alcohols, and alkanes. Among these, three aldehydes ((E)-2-hexenal2, benzaldehyde, and benzaldehyde,2-hydroxy) elicited the strongest EAG response in both adults at a concentration of 100ug/µL, with (E)-2-hexenal2 exhibiting a greater effect than benzaldehyde,2-hydroxy, which in turn was more effective than benzaldehyde. At this concentration, the attractive effects of (E)-2-hexenal2 and benzaldehyde on both adults were also significant. Furthermore, cis-3-hexenyl isovalerate demonstrated a significant repellent effect on female adults at 10µg/µL. Notably, Butanoic acid,3-hexenyl ester, (Z),cis-3-hexenyl isovalerate, and benzaldehyde,2-hydroxy at concentrations of 1µg/µL, 10µg/µL, and 100µg/µL exhibited significant repellent effects on male adults.Unmated adults of N. hequensis exhibited varying degrees of EAG response to 15 volatiles. Remarkably, (E)-2-hexenal2 and benzaldehyde elicited significant EAG responses and attracted behavioral responses both male and female adult Nematus hequensis Xiao at 100 µg/µL.
An improved squirrel search algorithm for a coefficient inversion problem of a singularly perturbed reaction-diffusion equation
Authors: Mai Xiongfa , Bian Wenhe , Liu Li-Bin
Published: August 2024

A novel numerical algorithm is proposed for solving a coefficient inverse problem of a singularly perturbed reaction-diffusion equation with the final time observation data. Firstly, for the discretization scheme of the direct problem, the barycentric form rational spectral approach based on the sinh transformation is used to discretize the space derivative and the Crank-Nicolson finite difference scheme is utilized to approximate the time derivative. For the construction of inverse problem, we design a new fitness function about the reaction coefficient. Then integrating optimal neighborhood search strategy, random opposition based learning strategy and adaptive predator presence probability strategy, an improved squirrel search algorithm named NOISSA is proposed. Finally, 9 benchmark test functions are used to validate the performance of our proposed NOISSA. Moreover, numerical experiments are carried out to illustrate the advantage of our new algorithm in solving the coefficient inverse problems of singularly perturbed reaction-diffusion problems.
Quadcopter-Centric Crack Detection: YAML Algorithm Integration
Authors: Ganduri Krishna Vamshi , Pathri Bhargav Prajwal , Reddy Ruthwik , Thirunathi Murali Krishna , Alimilla AthriNandan , Talasila Siddhartha
Published: August 2024

The primary objective of this project is to design and create a wall crack detecting system that uses the Yet Another Markup Language (YOLO) v81 model and an aerial drone. Wall fissures present serious maintenance and safety issues for power plants, buildings, and infrastructure. The YOLOv3 model, which is renowned for its real-time object detection abilities, is a major component of the project. By incorporating this model into an aerial drone platform, the system's mobility and accessibility are increased, making it possible for it to inspect areas of buildings and structures that are difficult to reach. The general perspective offered by the drone's aerial perspective makes it possible to identify fractures early on that could otherwise go undetected. The training process is guided by the YAML configuration, which includes important parameters for the best model performance, like epochs, batch size, picture size (imgsz), and pretraining. The computing core for onboard deployment is one example of how the system is designed for integration. Important factors to consider are labour assignments, device management, and project-specific information specified in the YAML file. The objective of this project is to address real-time processing and remote monitoring challenges in infrastructure inspection situations and to develop a scalable and reliable system for automated wall crack recognition.
PRIMO-PenEasy Monte Carlo simulation compared with dosimetric results for 6MV photon beams in small fields
Authors: Díaz Nataly , Abaunza Amaia Villa , Muñoz Jorge , Udias Jose Manuel , Ibañez Paula
Published: August 2024

Dosimetric validation of clinically prescribed plans for small fields requires adapted instrumentation that ensures high accuracy and spatial resolution. The objective of this study is to propose a solution by employing PRIMO-penEasy MC simulation for scenarios where obtaining direct measurements is impractical, poses challenges, or leads to inconsistencies in measurements from various detectors when assessing treatments involving small fields. This study presents the application of three distinct tools: the Semiflex ionization chamber PTW, model 31010, placed in an acrylic tank filled with water; EBT3 radiochromic films positioned between layers of a solid water phantom; and PRIMO-PenEasy Monte Carlo (MC) simulations for small photon beams. The experimental dosimetric outcomes were acquired at San Ignacio University Hospital in Bogota, Colombia, involving two small fields and one conventional field. These fields were generated using an Axesse-type linear accelerator.
Radiochromic film show better agreement with MC simulation compared to the semiflex ionization chamber data, due to the fact that measurements with the 1 ionization chamber involve averaging the dose across the detection volume. Additionally, variations in off-axis ratios are observed in both crossplane and inplane directions. This difference is more evident in the case of two small fields compared to a conventional field. This observation can be attributed to the specific opening direction of the multi-blade collimation system and XY-jaws.
Our study demonstrated that PRIMO-PenEasy MC simulation provides precise dose distributions and can be used as an alternative computational method to obtain the characteristics of small photon beams from an Axesse-type linear accelerator. The simulation results offer a means to reconcile disparities observed in values measured with different detectors. The values computed by PRIMO-PenEasy Monte Carlo (MC) can serve as a reliable indicator of accuracy and, consequently, be employed for dosimetric validation of prescribed clinical plans.
Preparation of nickel sulfide electrode material by starch assisted hydrothermal process and its electrochemical properties
Authors: Wang Yili , Yang Pan , Wei Kang , Sheng Zizhi , Huang Ruonan , Huang Wendeng , Deng Jianping
Published: August 2024

As a novel form of energy storage apparatus, the supercapacitor has garnered substantial attention in academic research due to its superior energy density compared to dielectric capacitors, as well as its enhanced power density and cycle life in comparison to batteries. The electrode material, which a critical component of supercapacitors, plays a significant role in shaping their overall performance. In this work, nanometer nickel sulfide electrode materials with uniform particles were prepared by soluble starch assisted hydrothermal method and assembled into supercapacitors. Through electrochemical testing, the specific capacity of the prepared NiS electrode can reach 1979.2F·g-1 at the current density of 1A·g-1, and the capacity retention rate of the device is 52.8% after 10000 constant current charge and discharge at the current density of 3A·g-1, indicating that the device has good cycle stability. This study provides a practical basis for the development of high efficiency and low cost energy conversion with storage technology.
Meta-HGNet: Meta-Heterogeneous Generalized Network for Visible Infrared Person Re-identification
Authors: Jiale Zhang , Baohua Zhang , Dongyang Wu , Yu Gu , Jianjun Li , Jingyu Wang
Published: August 2024

Visible infrared person re-identification plays an important role in heterogeneous modality image person identity matching, however, significant modality differences increase cross modality image matching errors. The existing cross-modality re-identification person re-identification methods only utilize modality homogeneous shared features, ignoring specific representations of modality heterogeneity, which prevents fast fitting convergence and reduces cross-modality re-identification accuracy. To address the above problems, this paper proposes a novel Meta-heterogeneous generalized network (Meta-HGNet), which introduces a meta-learning strategy to simulate the training and testing process in order to improve the heterogeneous generalization ability of the network. The Meta-HGNet consists of two modules: the Meta-Optimization Feature Module (MOF) and the Meta-Feature Coupling module (MFC). To enhance the discriminative properties of homogeneous and heterogeneous modality features, the MOF is used to extract homogeneous shared features, separate heterogeneous specific representations and learn their contextual relationships. Then, the MFC reduces the discrepancy between meta-sample features and shared discriminative features by extracting meta-sample features, fusing them with modality shared discriminative features, and the feature fusion weights are adjusted by using the dual constraints of meta-sample testing loss (MTloss) and meta-sample coupling loss (MSCloss). As a result, the proposed model adaptively adjusts the weighting parameters without introducing additional network parameters for fast fitting convergence, which further improves the generalization of visible-infrared person re-identification, and the effectiveness and superiority of the proposed method is verified through experiments on three cross-modality re-identification datasets.
Investigating Elbow Dislocation and Instability: A 3D Finite Element Analysis Approach
Authors: Kork Samer Al , Youssef Karim , Said Sherif , ElSayed Fahmi , Karar Abdullah , Al-Barakeh Zaher , Abraham Edward , Amirouche Farid , Beyrouthy Taha
Published: August 2024

Elbow dislocation and instability present significant clinical challenges, necessitating a thorough understanding of the underlyingbio-mechanical mechanisms. In this study, a quasi-static three-dimensional finite element model of the human elbow joint isdeveloped to investigate stress distribution and stages of dislocation in the human elbow under various loading conditions. Themodel simulates the elbow joint in different degrees of flexion (30°, 45°, 60°, and 90°) and forearm positions (pronation andsupination), providing detailed insights into the progression of dislocation. Significant findings include the identification of highstress concentrations on the humerus at 90° flexion and on the radial and coronoid processes at 30°, 45°, and 60° flexion.Three reproducible stages of dislocation were observed, particularly in flexed positions with forearm pronation or supination.These stages align with experimental observations1 and highlight the initial occurrence of bony failures, such as radial headand ulnar coronoid fractures, preceding soft tissue tears. Clinically, the study underscores that early-stage low-impact posteriorelbow dislocations retain enough stability to be managed with closed reduction and early mobilization. However, as dislocationsprogress, significant damage to the medial and lateral collateral ligaments is expected, necessitating more invasive treatments.This research provides valuable bio-mechanical insights into elbow dislocation, aiding in the development of improved treatmentstrategies and enhancing patient outcomes through precise and timely clinical interventions. The validated FEM serves as apowerful tool for pre-surgical planning offering a comprehensive understanding of elbow joint mechanics
Persistent macroeconomic damages raise social cost of carbon
Authors: Wenz Leonie , Kotz Maximilian , Callahan Christopher , Stechemesser Annika
Published: August 2024

The social cost of carbon (SCC) is a central tool for climate policy-making. Estimates of the SCC depend crucially on their representation of climate damages. Recent developments in climate econometrics have increased the level of spatial detail, constrained the persistence, and widened the scope of climatic drivers of impacts on macroeconomic growth, but their implications for the SCC remain unexplored. Here we integrate a reduced form representation of such empirical damages in the state-of-the-art Integrated Assessment Model GIVE. At a near-term discount rate of 2%, damages imply a SCC of $2520 with a likely range of $1330-4250 based on uncertainty in the econometric, climate and integrated assessment models, an order of magnitude greater than recent sector-specific calibrations. Accounting for the variability of temperature and the variability and extremes of precipitation increases estimates of the SCC by over 80% compared to damages from average temperature alone. Constraining the persistence of impacts on growth alters the SCC by orders of magnitude, increasing over forty-fold compared to empirical specifications which assume no persistence and decreasing four-fold compared to those which assume infinite persistence. Exploring the potential of adaptation to reduce damages, we find that halving economic vulnerability to impacts within the next 23 years would be necessary to bring the SCC below 1000$.
Filming nanodroplet running and jetting mediated by nanoscale solid-gas and solid-liquid interface
Authors: Chen Bin , Xu Linfeng , Cao Zetan , Liu Zhiwen , Zheng Cheng , Peng Simin , Lu Yong
Published: August 2024

Nanodroplets at multiphase interfaces are ubiquitous in nature with implications ranging from fundamental interfacial science to industrial applications including catalytic, environmental, biological and medical processes. Direct observation of the full dynamic evolutions of liquid metal nanodroplets at nanoscale multiphase interfaces offers indispensable insights, however, remains challenging and unclear at the moment. Here, we have fabricated massive ready-to-use gas and liquid cells containing HgS nanocrystals through electrospinning and achieved the statistical investigations of full picture of Hg nanodroplets evolving at solid-gas and solid-liquid interfaces by in-situ transmission electron microscopy. Upon the electron-beam excitation of HgS in the gas cells, the voids nucleated, grew and then coalesced into the crack-like feature preferentially along the < 001 > direction through the bridges. Meanwhile, the Hg nanodroplets formed, moved rapidly on the ratchet surface with the velocity of several tens of nm/s and were finally evolved into bigger ones through the nanobridges with the relatively large gap of ~ 6 nm. Distinctly and surprisingly, mediated by the solid-liquid interface at nanoscale, the liquid Hg with the ink-like feature jetted in the liquid cells. Such ink-jetting behavior would occur multiple times with the intervals from several to several tens of seconds, which was modulated through the competition between the reductive electrons and the oxidative species derived from the radiolysis of liquid by the electron-beam. In-depth understanding of distinct nanodroplets dynamics at nanoscale solid-gas and solid-liquid interfaces offers a feasible approach of designing liquid metal-based nanocomplexes with regulatory interfacial, morphological and rheological functionalities.
Women at Work: Unveiling the Impact of FLFPR and Adolescent Fertility on India's Economic Landscape
Authors: Sharma P.K. , Chandauriya Mahima
Published: August 2024

This paper explores the relationship between female labour force participation (FLFPR), adolescent fertility rates, and economic development in India from 2012 to 2022. Drawing on regression analysis and secondary data sources, including the World Bank and the International Labour Organisation, the study investigates the impact of FLFPR, normalised weight (FGERSE), and adolescent fertility rates on GDP per capita. Results indicate a strong positive correlation between FLFPR and GDP per capita, highlighting the significant role of women in driving economic growth. Conversely, adolescent fertility rates exhibit a negative correlation with GDP per capita, emphasising the need for policies to address reproductive health outcomes. The findings underscore the importance of promoting gender inclusivity education to foster sustainable economic development and gender equality in India.
Green solid-state synthesis of Cu4O3/biochar composites with high antimicrobial activity
Authors: Sun Ke , Yang Wenyi , Shen Yiheng , Wang Zihan , Wang Yindian , Chen Hongxia , Liu Yi
Published: August 2024

Infectious diseases caused by pathogenic microorganisms have inflicted significant calamities upon human society. The Cu4O3/biochar composites with high efficacy of antimicrobial properties are developed for the first time via a green solid synthesis strategy of ball milling and sintering processes in this work. The mechanistic investigation revealed that the biochar, e.g. corn stover, plays multiple physiochemical roles as a support carrier, dispersant, and reducing agent, regulating elegantly the stoichiometric ratio of Cu2O and CuO. The potent antimicrobial activities of the Cu4O3/biochar composite were confirmed against E. coli, S. aureus, and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus MRSA through minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) testing, exhibiting extremely low MIC values against the Gram-positive strains S. aureus and MRSA. Furthermore, the antibacterial mechanisms of the Cu4O3/biochar composite were studied through the experiments and quantum mechanical computations, showing the enhanced effects between the successive release of Cu(I)/Cu(II) ions and the generation of reactive oxygen species. This work reports the first solid-state symproportionation reactions of CuOx to prepare high-purity Cu4O3, stabilized by biochar with the advantages of simplicity, low cost, brevity, mild reaction conditions, and eco-friendliness. The Cu4O3/biochar composite can be applied as additives in anti-bacterial materials to protect against harmful microbial infections including superbugs.
Hydrodynamic fluctuations and topological susceptibility in chiral magnetohydrodynamics
Authors: Das Arpit , Iqbal Nabil , Poovuttikul Napat
Published: August 2024

Chiral magnetohydrodynamics is devoted to understanding the late-time and long-distance behavior of a system with an Adler-Bell-Jackiw anomaly at finite temperatures. The non-conservation of the axial charge is determined by the topological density \vec{E} \cdot \vec{B}E→⋅B→; in a classical hydrodynamic description this decay rate can be suppressed by tuning the background magnetic field to zero. However it is in principle possible for thermal fluctuations of \vec{E} \cdot \vec{B}E→⋅B→ to result in a non-conservation of the charge even at vanishing BB-field; this would invalidate the classical hydrodynamic effective theory. We investigate this by computing the real-time susceptibility of the topological density at one-loop level in magnetohydrodynamic fluctuations, relating its low-frequency limit to the decay rate of the axial charge. We find that the frequency-dependence of this susceptibility is sufficiently soft as to leave the axial decay rate unaffected, validating the classical hydrodynamic description. We show that the susceptibility contains non-analytic frequency-dependence which is universally determined by hydrodynamic data. We comment briefly on possible connections to the recent formulation of the ABJ anomaly in terms of non-invertible symmetry.
Precision magnetometry exploiting excited state quantum phase transitions
Authors: Qian Wang , Marzolino Ugo
Published: August 2024

Critical behaviour in phase transitions is a resource for enhanced precision metrology. The reason is that the function, known as Fisher information, is superextensive at critical points, and, at the same time, quantifies performances of metrological protocols. Therefore, preparing metrological probes at phase transitions provides enhanced precision in measuring the transition control parameter. We focus on the Lipkin-Meshkov-Glick model that exhibits excited state quantum phase transitions at different magnetic fields. Resting on the model spectral properties, we show broad peaks of the Fisher information, and propose efficient schemes for precision magnetometry. The Lipkin-Meshkov-Glick model was first introduced for superconductivity and for nuclear systems, and recently realised in several condensed matter platforms. The above metrological schemes can be also exploited to measure microscopic properties of systems able to simulate the Lipkin-Meshkov-Glick model.
Synthesis of Heterocyclic Compounds Using Hydrotalcite
Authors: Versha Bentham Science Publisher , Rana Ravi Kumar , Bendi Anjaneyulu
Published: August 2024

Today, a promising technique for creating various biologically active
organic compounds is the one-pot synthesis employing materials based on hydrotalcite.
One-pot synthesis is an effective method for creating complex organic compounds
because it includes the simultaneous production of many bonds and functional groups
in a single reaction vessel. Layered double hydroxides (LDHs) called hydrotalcites
have a special structural makeup that makes them suitable for usage as catalyst
supports. The one-pot synthesis method using HT-based materials has a number of
benefits, including shorter reaction times, increased product yields, and simpler
reaction procedures. Utilising HT-based materials is also economical and friendly to
the environment. The chapter describes a variety of one-pot methods for the creation of
different heterocycles using hydrotalcites as effective catalysts.
Recent Trends in the Application of Hydrotalcitebased Materials in Organic Synthesis
Authors: Patel Monika , Gangadharan Arya , Verma Akhilesh K
Published: August 2024

Hydrotalcites (HT) and hydrotalcite-based materials are viewed as attractive
and feasible choices among heterogeneous catalysts, particularly in organic catalytic
transformations. These catalysts have been widely researched as promising candidates
in one-pot organic synthesis. They are synthesised via the standard co-precipitation
method and can be used as support for transition metals and nanomaterials. Compared
to the corrosive, hard to reutilise and, detrimental to the environment homogenous
catalysts, HTs are high-functioning alternatives that deliver several benefits like
profitable yields, recyclability and excellent selectivity. They are being studied today as
precursors for a variety of scientific purposes such as in the production of renewable
fuels, polymers, olefins and pharmaceuticals. Such processes involve essential organic
reactions like isomerisation, oxidation, hydrogenation, methanation, nucleophilic
additions, transesterification, and many more. In this chapter, examples of such organic
reactions where hydrotalcite-based materials posed as an optimal catalyst are discussed.
Current Therapy Strategies for Vertebral Endplates
Authors: Dowling Alvaro , Molina Marcelo
Published: August 2024

The vertebral endplate is a critical component of the intervertebral disc, and
its dysfunction can lead to various spinal disorders and chronic back pain. The structure
and function of the vertebral endplate play an important role in disc nutrition,
biomechanical support, and waste removal. Endplate-related conditions and their
respective pathophysiologies may play a role in painful degeneration, fractures, and
Modic changes. This chapter summarizes current concepts of therapeutic strategies
with an emphasis on regenerative medicine application. It discusses using
mesenchymal stem cells, platelet-rich plasma, growth factors, and tissue engineering
approaches for endplate regeneration and repair. Diagnostic strategies for assessing
vertebral endplate disorders and palliative as well as regenerative treatment strategies
are discussed. The current evidence, ongoing research, and prospects in endplate-based
therapies are highlighted.
Sustainable Concrete with Zero Carbon Footprint
Authors: Alawais Ahmed , West Roger P
Published: August 2024

This paper describes a method to use solely recycled and by-product materials as constituents to form concrete that can be used in buildings structural applications. As concrete is one of the most important materials in human civilization, where it is used widely in construction, cement and aggregate the main components of concrete cause an emission of large amounts of carbon dioxide, which is the main cause of global warming. The production of one tonne of cement, for example, causes the emission of about 800 kg of this CO2. The growing demand for concrete constitutes a threat to the environment and its resources into the future. According to a market study by The Freedonia Group, in 2019 the world demand for cement was 5.1 billion tonnes which means that more than 2.5 billion tonnes of water and more than 11 billion tonnes of aggregates, both of which are scarce resources, will also be consumed. The goal of this Paper is to describe a 100% substitution of concretes normal constituents to form a sustainable concrete with zero carbon footprint and without compromising concrete mechanical properties. This will demand a pre-treatment of the recycled and by-products components to compensate for the natural strength loss due to their inclusion. Therefore, an innovative novel treatment method is selected for recycled concrete aggregates and chipped rubber to be separately treated and tested to mitigate the loss of strength in proposing a novel recycled activator for GGBS and silica fume. Then these waste recyclable materials are combined in a concrete mix that is 100% recycled and, therefore, significantly more sustainable.
Análisis de inteligencia científica del enfoque estratégico de agricultura climáticamente inteligente
Authors: Morales Castañeda Alexis , Contreras Pedraza Carlos Alberto , Flórez Martínez Diego Hernando
Published: August 2024

En el presente análisis se identifican y analizan las principales tendencias de investigación vinculadas con el tema de agricultura climáticamente inteligente utilizando herramientas de vigilancia tecnológica, tomando como como base, información y datos relacionados con los tres pilares anteriormente mencionados: productividad, adaptación y mitigación. Estas tendencias se analizarán bajo cuatro temáticas principales: 1) Seguridad alimentaria; 2) Cambio climático, adaptación y mitigación 3) Reducción Gases efecto invernadero y 4) Agricultura 4.0 y CSA
Liver Cancer Mortality Disparities at a Fine Scale Among Subpopulations in China: Nationwide Analysis of Spatial and Temporal Trends
Authors: Gan Ting , Liu Yunning , Bambrick Hilary , Zhou Maigeng , Hu Wenbiao
Published: August 2024

Background

China has the highest number of liver cancers worldwide, and liver cancer is at the forefront of all cancers in China. However, current research on liver cancer in China primarily relies on extrapolated data or relatively lagging data, with limited focus on subregions and specific population groups.

Objective

The purpose of this study is to identify geographic disparities in liver cancer by exploring the spatial and temporal trends of liver cancer mortality and the years of life lost (YLL) caused by it within distinct geographical regions, climate zones, and population groups in China.

Methods

Data from the National Death Surveillance System between 2013 and 2020 were used to calculate the age-standardized mortality rate of liver cancer (LASMR) and YLL from liver cancer in China. The spatial distribution and temporal trends of liver cancer were analyzed in subgroups by sex, age, region, and climate classification. Estimated annual percentage change was used to describe liver cancer trends in various regions, and partial correlation was applied to explore associations between LASMR and latitude.

Results

In China, the average LASMR decreased from 28.79 in 2013 to 26.38 per 100,000 in 2020 among men and 11.09 to 9.83 per 100,000 among women. This decline in mortality was consistent across all age groups. Geographically, Guangxi had the highest LASMR for men in China, with a rate of 50.15 per 100,000, while for women, it was Heilongjiang, with a rate of 16.64 per 100,000. Within these regions, the LASMR among men in most parts of Guangxi ranged from 32.32 to 74.98 per 100,000, whereas the LASMR among women in the majority of Heilongjiang ranged from 13.72 to 21.86 per 100,000. The trend of LASMR varied among regions. For both men and women, Guizhou showed an increasing trend in LASMR from 2013 to 2020, with estimated annual percentage changes ranging from 10.05% to 29.07% and from 10.09% to 21.71%, respectively. Both men and women observed an increase in LASMR with increasing latitude below the 40th parallel. However, overall, LASMR in men was positively correlated with latitude (R=0.225; P<.001), while in women, it showed a negative correlation (R=0.083; P=.04). High LASMR areas among men aligned with subtropical zones, like Cwa and Cfa. The age group 65 years and older, the southern region, and the Cwa climate zone had the highest YLL rates at 4850.50, 495.50, and 440.17 per 100,000, respectively. However, the overall trends in these groups showed a decline over the period.

Conclusions

Despite the declining overall trend of liver cancer in China, there are still marked disparities between regions and populations. Future prevention and control should focus on high-risk regions and populations to further reduce the burden of liver cancer in China.
Development of an Integrated Surveillance System to Improve Preparedness for Arbovirus Outbreaks in a Dengue Endemic Setting: Descriptive Study
Authors: Leandro André , Maciel-de-Freitas Rafael
Published: August 2024

Background

Dengue fever, transmitted by Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes, poses a significant public health challenge in tropical and subtropical regions. Dengue surveillance involves monitoring the incidence, distribution, and trends of infections through systematic data collection, analysis, interpretation, and dissemination. It supports public health decision-making, guiding interventions like vector control, vaccination campaigns, and public education.

Objective

Herein, we report the development of a surveillance system already in use to support public health managers against dengue transmission in Foz do Iguaçu, a dengue-endemic Brazilian city located in the Triple Border with Argentina and Paraguay.

Methods

We present data encompassing the fieldwork organization of more than 100 health agents; epidemiological and entomological data were gathered from November 2022 to April 2024, totalizing 18 months of data collection.

Results

By registering health agents, we were able to provide support for those facing issues to fill their daily milestone of inspecting 16 traps per working day. We filtered dengue transmission in the city by patient age, gender, and reporting units, as well as according to dengue virus serotype. The entomological indices presented a strong seasonal pattern, as expected. Several longtime established routines in Foz do Iguaçu have been directly impacted by the adoption of Vigilância Integrada com Tecnologia (VITEC).

Conclusions

The implementation of VITEC has enabled more efficient and accurate diagnostics of local transmission risk, leading to a better understanding of operational activity patterns and risks. Lately, local public health managers can easily identify hot spots of dengue transmission and optimize interventions toward those highly sensitive areas.
Differences in Fear and Negativity Levels Between Formal and Informal Health-Related Websites: Analysis of Sentiments and Emotions (Preprint)
Authors: Paradise Vit Abigail , Magid Avi
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND

Searching for web-based health-related information is frequently performed by the public and may affect public behavior regarding health decision-making. Particularly, it may result in anxiety, erroneous, and harmful self-diagnosis. Most searched health-related topics are cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and infectious diseases. A health-related web-based search may result in either formal or informal medical website, both of which may evoke feelings of fear and negativity.

OBJECTIVE

Our study aimed to assess whether there is a difference in fear and negativity levels between information appearing on formal and informal health-related websites.

METHODS

A web search was performed to retrieve the contents of websites containing symptoms of selected diseases, using selected common symptoms. Retrieved websites were classified into formal and informal websites. Fear and negativity of each content were evaluated using 3 transformer models. A fourth transformer model was fine-tuned using an existing emotion data set obtained from a web-based health community. For formal and informal websites, fear and negativity levels were aggregated. t tests were conducted to evaluate the differences in fear and negativity levels between formal and informal websites.

RESULTS

In this study, unique websites (N=1448) were collected, of which 534 were considered formal and 914 were considered informal. There were 1820 result pages from formal websites and 1494 result pages from informal websites. According to our findings, fear levels were statistically higher (t2753=3.331; P<.001) on formal websites (mean 0.388, SD 0.177) than on informal websites (mean 0.366, SD 0.168). The results also show that the level of negativity was statistically higher (t2753=2.726; P=.006) on formal websites (mean 0.657, SD 0.211) than on informal websites (mean 0.636, SD 0.201).

CONCLUSIONS

Positive texts may increase the credibility of formal health websites and increase their usage by the general public and the public’s compliance to the recommendations. Increasing the usage of natural language processing tools before publishing health-related information to achieve a more positive and less stressful text to be disseminated to the public is recommended.