bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pengembangan media pembelajaran berbasis Android dalam keterampilan membaca pada siswa kelas X SMA Fransiskus 2 Jakarta
Authors: Irene Ivon Afiani  , Ratna  , Andika Yunilis
Published: April 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengembangkan media pembelajaran berbasis android keterampilan membaca bahasa Prancis kelas X di SMA. Metode yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah Research and Development (R&D) dengan model penelitian ADDIE yang terdiri dari lima tahap yaitu analysis (analisis), development (pengembangan), implementation (implementasi), dan evaluation (evaluasi). Namun, dalam penelitian ini hanya dibatasi sampai tahap ketiga yaitu tahap development (pengembangan). Media pembelajaran dikembangkan berdasarkan materi keterampilan membaca siswa kelas X. Dari hasil pengembangan tersebut terciptalah sebuah aplikasi android yang dapat diakses melalui smartphone.

Media pembelajaran tersebut dinamakan “Languese” yang terdiri dari menu tujuan dan KD, petunjuk penggunaan, vidéo, leçon, quiz, profil dan références. Media pembelajaraan ini telah melalui validasi oleh ahli media dan materi dengan mendapatkan nilai sebesar 93,75% dan termasuk dalam kriteria sangat layak untuk diterapkan ke dalam pembelajaran dan layak untuk uji coba setelah melalui proses revisi. Hasil penelitian diharapkan dapat dijadikan sebagai media alternatif pembelajaran yang dapat diakses dengan mudah kapan dan dimana saja untuk siswa.
THE INFLUENCE OF JOB SATISFACTION AND WORK DISCIPLINE ON WORK MOTIVATION IN BAPPEDA EMPLOYEES OF JAMBI CITY
Authors: Kartika Yulia Dwi
Published: April 2024

This study examines how job satisfaction and work ethic affect employees of Jambi City Bappeda's motivation to work hard. Using saturated sampling or a census as the sampling method, this study used a quantitative approach with a sample size of 70 participants. Using SPSS software version 25, several linear regression analysis approaches were used to the research data. The findings indicated that the variables of job satisfaction and work discipline both partially and simultaneously had a positive and substantial effect on work motivation, with job satisfaction serving as the most important independent variable in this relationship.
BIG DATA ANALYSIS IN HUMAN RESOURCES DECISION MAKING: OPTIMIZING WORKFORCE MANAGEMENT
Authors: Heliana  , Wahyuni Herpita
Published: April 2024

This research aims to conduct an in-depth analysis of the application of Big Data in human resource decision-making, focusing on optimizing workforce management. By measuring four main variables, namely recruitment efficiency, accuracy of employee selection, employee development, and organizational performance based on HR decision-making—Big Data analysis is expected to provide a deeper understanding of workforce dynamics. The research results show that applying Big Data can build recruitment efficiency, increase the accuracy of employee selection, support more appropriate employee development, and ultimately improve overall organizational performance. Big Data makes organizational performance based on HR decision-making by providing a solid foundation for more effective human resource management strategies. This research uses qualitative methods with the help of the NVivo 12 Plus tool to identify research results. Implementing Big Data in various aspects of human resource management is recognized as a catalyst for positive change in workforce management.
President’s Column: How Members Can Help Improve the Industry’s Public Image
Authors: Palisch Terry
Published: April 2024

Editor’s Note: This is a summary of the April episode of the President’s podcast. We encourage you to listen to the episode to hear the full conversation.

In this podcast episode, I am joined by Paige McCown, senior manager of communication and energy education, to discuss the importance of how SPE engages with external stakeholders to help improve the industry’s public image, particularly through programs like energy4me.

I start the episode by emphasizing how the industry’s public image is a critical concern for our future, and it’s a common question among members about what SPE can do to help.

Although environmental scrutiny of the industry has always been present, it has become more pronounced with the increased focus on climate change and emissions. The energy industry has made many positive impacts across the world, from providing energy for almost everything we do to producing everyday products and conveniences.

I also believe that the industry is best positioned to solve today’s energy challenges. However, two main problems related to our public image hinder our ability to meet these challenges: our ability to attract the best talent, and our ability to attract investments in technology and innovation.

The discussion turns to ways to change public perception. I review some of the topics discussed at the Presidents Panel that I participated in at IPTC 2024. These include how engaging students at a young age and making them aware of the benefits of the industry helps change the narrative at an early age. Also, it is important to engage teachers, guidance counselors, and communities in promoting our positive aspects.

The conversation moves to how SPE is equipping its members to engage in these efforts. I highlight SPE’s energy4me program which provides an exploration and production curriculum and hands-on activities to teach the science behind the industry. To accompany the program, SPE worked with DK Publishing to publish the Oil and Natural Gas book, available in nine languages, which helps convey the importance of the industry and provides talking points for members to use in their communities.

SPE deploys the program through workshops at key events, virtual workshops, and the Energy4me Ambassador program. Sections and chapters across the globe are active in this program, so in 2022 SPE created the Corporate Ambassador program. Companies like ExxonMobil, EOG Resources, and Aramco Americas participated in the program. The program can help some companies meet their corporate responsibility and community outreach goals.

I also spend time discussing how local sections and chapters are using the program in their communities. We highlight various initiatives including STEM education programs, workshops for teachers and guidance counselors, and outreach events like Family Science Day. The Calgary section YPs organize an annual Family Science Day, aimed at educating students about oil and gas and putting on fun experiments.
Evidence for non-trivial edge modes in binary multilayers formed by normal and magnetic nm-thick metallic films
Authors: Belogolovskii Mikhail , Nevirkovets Ivan
Published: April 2024

Unidirectional and backscatter-free propagation of charge carriers in three-dimensional materials is of fundamental interest in physics and high demand for practical implementations in quantum electronic circuits. Using phase-sensitive Josephson interferometry, we have identified edge-localized and chiral current-carrying modes in binary heterostructures formed by alternating nanometer-thick films of ferromagnetic (F = Ni) and normal (N = Al) metals with an insulating (I = Al/AlOx) interlayer which are coupling two superconducting (S = Nb) electrodes. Instead of conventional Fraunhofer-like patterns, the vertically stacked S(NF)10NI(NF)10NS Josephson junctions exhibit SQUID-like maximum supercurrent versus in-plane magnetic field characteristics with a normal (h/e) rather than superconducting (h/2e) flux quantum periodicity. The subsequent replacement of the I interlayer with a Josephson S'IS' junction (S/ is an ultrathin Nb film), which acts as a “bottleneck” controlling the supercurrent throughout the entire device, revealed the transformation of edge currents upon their contact with the S' plane into hybrid electron-hole modes propagating along it. Possible reasons for the emergence of chiral edge currents in the heterostructures based on conventional and well-studied materials are discussed.
A Mixed-Methods Community Needs Assessment of Santa Maria and Guadalupe, California
Authors: Tseng Marilyn , Rojas Daisy , Hernandez Edgardo , Espinoza-Kulick Mario Alberto Viveros , Gilbert Irebid , Perez Maritza , Gonzalez Elisa , Phelan Suzanne
Published: April 2024

Santa Maria and Guadalupe are neighboring cities in northern Santa Barbara County that have a lower socioeconomic profile than the county overall, are > 75% Latino, and have up to 32,000 residents who identify as Indigenous, primarily Mixtec-speaking people from southern Mexico. We conducted a mixed-methods community needs assessment to identify unique health challenges and barriers that Latinx and Mixtec individuals faced. From January-April 2021, targeted and general recruitment approaches were used to recruit a convenience sample of 159 participants (74% Latinx, 72% female, mean age 41.3 years) to complete modified long- and short-form versions of a community health concerns survey. Fifty-four completed the 40-item form and 102 completed the 19-item form. Of these, 24 individuals who expressed interest in further participation took part in structured, open-ended interviews. Among the key issues raised in surveys and interviews were housing, healthcare, and access to recreational resources. However, perspectives and priorities differed depending on the form of data collection (closed-ended survey vs. open-ended interview). For example, interviews echoed survey respondents’ dissatisfaction regarding lack of safe and affordable housing but added perspective on housing conditions and vulnerability to landlords’ decisions. In interviews, expanding existing resources and mobilizing as a community were noted as potential solutions; existing policies, language, and lack of interest by those in power were raised as significant barriers. Our assessment suggests that Santa Maria and Guadalupe communities face concerns about housing, healthcare, and access to recreational resources. Government, community, and healthcare sectors should focus on addressing these basic health needs.
A randomized prospective comparison of the needleless mini‐sling “hammock” and “U‐shape” configurations for management of stress urinary incontinence: 60 month follow‐up results
Authors: dogan ozan , basbug alper , Eren Ecem , yassa murat
Published: April 2024

Objective: This study aimed to compare the efficacy of needleless mini-slings placed either retropubic (U-shape) or trans-obturator (hammock-shape) for treating stress urinary incontinence.
Setting: A total of 126 women were randomized in a 2:1 ratio to receive either hammock-shaped or U-shaped Contasure-NDL. A reassessment was conducted at the end of the 5th year with lost to follow-ups.
Methods: All surgical procedures were performed by an experienced senior surgeon specializing in anti-incontinence surgery with mesh. The objective outcome included a cough-stress test, while subjective outcomes involved the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire Short Form (ICIQ-SF), Patient Global Impression of Improvement (PGI-I), and a three-item Likert scale to measure satisfaction. Assessments were performed at the 60th month.
Results: At the end of 60 months, no significant differences were found in objective cure rate, subjective cure rate, mesh complications, or the need for reintervention due to incontinence between the U-shape and hammock-shaped groups . However, a significant decrease was observed in objective and subjective cure rates when comparing results at 18 and 60 months in both groups. In the hammock-shaped group, there was a significant difference in ICIQ-SF, Likert scale, and PGI-I scores between 18 and 60 months. In the U-shaped group, a significant difference was observed in ICIQ-SF and PGI-I scores, with no notable change in the Likert scale.
Conclusion: In conclusion, without a significant difference, it is challenging to assert the superiority of needleless mini-slings placed either retropubically (U-shape) or transobturatorly (hammock-shape) for treating stress urinary incontinence (SUI).
Effect of Suture Purchase on Biomechanical Characteristics in Barbed Sutures
Authors: cirdi yigit umut , gunay ali eray , ekici mehmet , sekerci omer tolga , ozturk ramazan ilter , gursoy safa
Published: April 2024

The effects of the purchase length on the maximum tensile strength (MTS) and 2mm gap resistance (2 mmGR) of barbed and polypropylene (PP) sutures were investigated. A total of 24 sheep flexor tendons were divided into four groups. Increasing the suture purchase from 1 cm to 2 cm resulted in 58.3% vs. 157.5% increase in 2mmGR for PP and barbed sutures, respectively. While the repair with a 1cm suture purchase using barbed sutures is weaker than the PP group (8.1N vs. 12.1N)(p=0.445), when the suture purchase is increased to 2 cm, a comparable tensile strength is obtained in terms of 2 mmGR (20.7N vs. 19.9N) (p = 0.971). Compared to PP sutures, the tensile force achieved with barbed sutures grows exponentially as the distance traveled through the tendon increases. Consequently, barbed sutures provide comparable tensile force for flexor tendon repair when suture purchase is increased.
Level of evidence: V
Ultrasensitive Detection of Uveal Melanoma Using [18F]AlF-NOTA-PRGD2 PET Imaging
Authors: Wang Ling , Zhu Xue , Xue Yan , Huang Zhihong , Zou Wenjun , Zhang Zhengwei , Yu Mengxi , Pan Donghui , Wang Ke
Published: April 2024

Background: Uveal melanoma (UM) is the most common primary intraocular tumor in adults, and early detection is critical to improve the clinical outcome of this disease. In this study, the diagnostic effectiveness of [18F]AlF-NOTA-PRGD2 (an investigational medicinal product) positron emission tomography (PET) imaging in UM xenografts and UM patients were evaluated. The cell uptake, cell binding ability and in vitro stability of [18F]AlF-NOTA-PRGD2 were evaluated in 92-1 UM cell line. MicroPET imaging and biodistribution study of [18F]AlF-NOTA-PRGD2 were conducted in 92-1 UM xenografts. Then, UM patients were further recruited for evaluating the diagnostic effectiveness of [18F]AlF-NOTA-PRGD2 PET imaging (approval no.NCT02441972 in clinicaltrials.gov). In addition, comparison of [18F]AlF-NOTA-PRGD2 and 18F-labelled fluorodeoxyglucose ([18F]FDG) PET imaging in UM xenografts and UM patients were conducted.
Results: The in vitro data showed that [18F]AlF-NOTA-PRGD2 had a high cell uptake, cell binding ability and in vitro stability in 92-1 UM cell line. The in vivo data indicated that 92-1 UM tumors were clearly visualized with the [18F]AlF-NOTA-PRGD2 tracer in the subcutaneous and ocular primary UM xenografts model at 60 min post-injection. And the tumor uptake of the tracer was 2.55±0.44%ID/g and 1.73±0.15%ID/g at these two tissue locations respectively, at 7 days after animal model construction. The clinical data showed that tumors in UM patients were clearly visualized with the [18F]AlF-NOTA-PRGD2 tracer at 60 min post-injection. In addition, [18F]AlF-NOTA-PRGD2 tracer showed higher sensitivity and specificity for PET imaging in UM xenografts and UM patients compared to [18F]FDG tracer.
Conclusion: [18F]AlF-NOTA-PRGD2 PET imaging may be a more preferred approach in the diagnosis of UM compared to [18F]FDG PET imaging.
Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02441972, Registered 1 January 2012, https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT02441972
Generative Artificial Intelligence, Python, and Gathering Grey Literature for a Systematic Literature Review with Google’s Programmable Search Engine.
Authors: Atkinson Cameron Frederick
Published: March 2024

Systematically gathering grey literature for use in a systematic literature review (SLR) is a challenging task, given the decentralised nature of online resources. Researchers, particularly those in the social sciences, often find themselves navigating government or non-government organisation websites, manually scouring repositories for documents relevant to their SLRs. This important stage is expensive in terms of time and resources required and, in many instances, difficult to repeat. This article introduces an innovative methodology to address these challenges, providing social science researchers with a systematic approach to gather grey literature for inclusion in SLRs. Utilising the computer programming language Python, this articles leverages Google’s API to create a programmable search engine, facilitating a systematic search for grey literature intended for inclusion in a SLR. A case study is presented to demonstrate the efficiency of this method in locating PDF documents, within which two examples are provided. In the first example, documents from Australian government websites ending in “gov.au” related to the topic of (“energy infrastructure” AND resilience) are sought. Secondly, “un.org” is added to illustrate how multiple websites can be searched. Highlighting the effectiveness of this approach, the study successfully locates 100 documents in just 7.5 seconds, automatically saving them into an Excel CSV file for further analysis. To the authors knowledge, this method represents an original approach in the systematic gathering of grey literature for SLRs and highlights the contribution of generative artificial intelligence systems such as ChatGPT 3.5 in assisting to script the necessary code for new SLR tools.
Face Image De-identification Based on Feature Embedding
Authors: Hanawa Goki , Ito Koichi , Aoki Takafumi
Published: April 2024

A large number of images are available on the Internet with the growth of social networking services, and many of them are face photos or contain faces. It is necessary to protect the privacy of face images to prevent their malicious use by face image de-identification techniques that make face recognition difficult, which prevent the collection of specific face images using face recognition. In this paper, we propose a face image de-identification method that generates a de-identified image from an input face image by embedding facial features extracted from that of another person into the input face image. We develop the novel framework for embedding facial features into a face image and loss functions based on images and features to de-identify a face image preserving its appearance. Through a set of experiments using public face image datasets, we demonstrate that the proposed method exhibits higher de-identification performance against unknown face recognition models than conventional methods while preserving the appearance of the input face images.
Wheat Performance Affected by Green-Synthesized T-ZnO-NPs: A Comprehensive Study on Soil, Foliar, and Hydrogel Applications
Authors: Doğaroğlu Zeynep Görkem , Uysal Yağmur , Çaylalı Zehranur , Karakoç Gökçen
Published: March 2024

Zinc oxide nanoparticles (T-ZnO-NPs) synthesized with Thymus vulgaris (thyme) extract have gained attention for their potential impact on plant growth. Previous studies have shown that nanoparticles, especially those derived from plant extracts, can influence germination, root and shoot development, and chlorophyll content in various plant species. Thyme extract, known for its bioactive compounds, presents an intriguing source for nanoparticle synthesis. In this context, our study aims to explore the effects of T-ZnO-NPs on wheat plants and provide insights into their role in enhancing growth performance. The T-ZnO-NPs were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). SEM and FTIR analyses provided detailed information about the morphology and functional groups of the nanoparticles, while XRD revealed an average size of 19.72 nm. The synthesized nanoparticles were then applied to wheat plants through soil applications, foliar spray, and hydrogel formulations. Germination tests were conducted to assess the impact on wheat germination percentage, and pot experiments were set up to evaluate the growth parameters and chlorophyll content under different concentrations of T-ZnO-NPs. The germination tests demonstrated a positive influence of T-ZnO-NPs suspension on wheat germination percentage. Furthermore, hydrogel applications of T-ZnO-NPs showed significant improvements in root and shoot lengths of wheat seedlings. Pot experiments revealed an increase in the dry/fresh weight ratios of plants subjected to various T-ZnO-NPs concentrations in hydrogels, indicating enhanced biomass production. The chlorophyll content of plants exhibited a dose-dependent response, with a notable increase at low concentrations (250 and 500 mg/L) for both soil and foliar applications. However, concentrations of 4000 mg/L and above did not result in a significant increase in chlorophyll content. In conclusion, our study demonstrates the positive influence of T-ZnO-NPs, synthesized using thyme extract, on the growth and development of wheat plants. The dose-dependent effects observed in germination percentage, root and shoot lengths, biomass production, and chlorophyll content highlight the importance of optimizing nanoparticle concentrations for maximum benefits. These findings contribute to the growing body of knowledge on the potential of plant-synthesized nanoparticles in agriculture and emphasize the need for further research to elucidate underlying mechanisms and optimize application protocols.
Numerical modeling of two-dimensional hydrodynamics in an artificial chute cutoff under different hydrologic conditions
Authors: Qiao Qiao , Yang Cheng , Hao Xuqing , Huang Lingxiao
Published: April 2024

Chute cutoff represents a significant geomorphic event in the evolution of meandering rivers. Following the chute cutoff, channel adjustments occur rapidly. Therefore, investigating the interaction between the flow dynamics and channel morphology is relatively challenging. However, numerical simulations provide enhanced insights into the hydrodynamic characteristics of artificial chute cutoff. In the initial year of an artificial chute cutoff evolution in the Ningxia section of the Yellow River, we collected data on the channel topography and three-dimensional flow velocity. These measurements were utilized to calibrate the established two dimensional mathematical model and explore the impacts of different hydrological conditions on the hydrodynamics of the chute channel after the artificial cutoff. The simulation results revealed the complexity of the two-dimensional flow field within the artificial chute cutoff characterized by several regions of flow separation and recirculation zones, which was related to chute channel topography and boundary conditions. These recirculation zones varied with the inlet flow. Across the three discharges, most of the flow remained concentrated in the main channel. At higher discharges increasing the water levels, the floodplain became inundated, and a shear layer between the main channel and floodplain emerged. This study presented a detailed depiction of the flow structure within artificial chute cutoff under diverse river geomorphological and hydrological conditions. This research can bridge knowledge gaps regarding chute cutoffs in the upper reaches of the Yellow River, contributing to the improvement of conceptual models concerning chute cutoff phenomena.
Resource Allocation Optimization in Heterogeneous 5G Networks Using DUDe
Authors: Konstantinos Tsachrelias , Katsigiannis Chrysostomos-Athanasios , Kokkinos Vasileios , Gkamas Apostolos , Bouras Christos , Pouyioutas Philippos
Published: April 2024

The advent of 5G networks has resulted in an increased need for faster data rates and enhanced network performance. Heterogeneous Networks (HetNets) have emerged as a promising solution to address coverage and capacity enhancements for 5G networks. However, efficient bandwidth allocation remains a significant challenge in HetNets, with traditional resource allocation techniques falling short in meeting the requirements of 5G networks. To tackle this challenge, a novel technology called Downlink/Uplink Decoupling (DUDe) has been proposed. DUDe dynamically adjusts the allocation of network resources based on user demand and network conditions, aiming to optimize bandwidth allocation in HetNets. This paper aims to emphasize the importance of DUDe technology specifically in Macro Cell offloading within 5G HetNets. It evaluates the performance of DUDe in comparison to traditional resource allocation techniques, shedding light on the key factors influencing its effectiveness. Furthermore, the paper presents a comprehensive analysis of simulation results and offers recommendations for future research. The findings of this study have practical implications for network operators and researchers, providing insights to develop more efficient and effective resource allocation strategies for 5G networks.
Green bands as markers of deep ocean ventilation in marine sediments
Authors: Babin Daniel , Hall Ian , Hemming Sidney
Published: April 2024

Ocean ventilation of "young" surface waters, which have recently been in contact with the atmosphere, in the high-latitude North Atlantic Ocean, serves as a major source of oxygen-rich deep waters (> 2.5 km) to the world's oceans 1,2. Both models and observations suggest deep water production and the oxygenation of deep water are declining, threatening valuable marine ecosystems and the crucial role the ocean plays in carbon storage 3–6. Widely observed diagenetic banding in marine sediments is believed to be connected to the availability of oxygen in pore waters and the remineralization of buried organic matter. This study combines a comprehensive spatial survey of distinctive green banding in near-surface sediments with an analysis of the temporal variability in banding at International Ocean Discovery Program (IODP) Sites U1313 and U1474 to document fluctuations in bottom water oxygen across the mid-late Pleistocene (1 million years to present). The survey of near surface sediments (core-tops) indicates that the green bands have their origin in the post-glacial resurgence in the production of oxygen-rich North Atlantic Deep Water (NADW). The stratigraphic survey shows the synchronous development of banding numerous times during the glacial marine isotope stages (MIS) of the Pleistocene, indicating the timing of regional deoxygenation events as a consequence of Northern Component Water (NCW; the glacial equivalent of NADW) slowdowns. This glacial-interglacial pattern in band abundance is superimposed on a lower-frequency cycle corresponding to the 400-thousand-year (ka) band in orbital eccentricity and a globally prevailing pattern in benthic carbon isotopes. We link green band formation and benthic carbon isotopes to sapropel barren intervals from the Mediterranean Sea and productivity records from the Southern Ocean and propose that long eccentricity cycles influenced bottom water oxygen across the Late Pleistocene.
The Microbiome After Bail-out: Testing Individual Polyps from Pocillopora verrucosa as Models for Coral Microbiology Studies
Authors: CARDOSO PEDRO , VILLELA HELENA , DÍAZ-RÚA RUBEN , BARNO ADAM , PEIXOTO RAQUEL
Published: April 2024

Micro-scale in vitro models are essential for the study of model organisms in highly reproducible and controlled environments. Coral research grapples with a substantial knowledge gap on micro-scale processes underlying symbiotic interactions and holobiont health, which could be addressed through the use of models adapted to microscopic studies. Individual coral polyps separated from their colonies through an acute stress-induced bail-out process have been suggested in the past as miniaturized models to study the coral holobiont. However, changes in the microbiome associated with these polyps after bail-out are still not completely understood. An aquarium experiment was therefore performed to monitor the diversity and composition of microbes of bailed-out polyps of Pocillopora verrucosa alongside their parental fragments over time. Our findings revealed no significant microbiome differences immediately following bail-out, with 80% of microbial members persisting for up to two weeks, decreasing slightly to 60% in the third week. Notably, despite a reduction in shared Amplicon Sequence Variants (ASVs), the dominant bacterial taxa's relative abundance stayed consistent across both the source fragments and bailed-out polyps for up to three weeks. This consistency underscores the potential of using micropropagates as valuable tools for microbiological research in corals. Further enhancements in polyp settlement techniques may refine these models, bolstering our capacity for comprehensive coral microbiome studies.
Design and experiment of automatic grasping manipulator for side-mounted garbage truck
Authors: Meng Xiangyan , Sun Qun , Liu Mingxian , He Shisheng , Ren Fuguo , Liu Qianglin
Published: April 2024

At present, for the garbage collection, high labor intensity, mechanization, automation and low level of intelligence, for the existing garbage collection mode, garbage collection and transportation facilities and technologies have been unable to quickly and timely meet the increasing demand for garbage. Aiming at the problems of unstable structure, garbage leakage and trash can destruction in the current garbage truck manipulator, this paper designs a hydraulic lever tandem drive clean and jerk type turning mechanism. To solve the problem of destroying the trash can, this paper installs a spoke-type pressure sensor on the clamp mechanism, and uses the pressure sensor to accurately measure the shrinkage of the clamp hydraulic rod, so as to effectively reduce the damage to the trash can.
Reliability of High-Performance Monolayer MoS2 Transistors on Scaled High-κ HfO2
Authors: Chen Zhihong , Lan Hao-Yu , Yang Shao-Heng , Tripathi Rahul , Appenzeller Joerg
Published: April 2024

The successful integration of ultrathin high-κ insulators is essential for the advancement of ultra-scaled field-effect transistors (FETs) based on two-dimensional (2D) semiconductors in future technology nodes. However, defects within the high-κ stack or at the interfaces can significantly degrade the performance of these “interface-only” devices, raising questions regarding their long-term reliability. Here, we study the reliability of monolayer MoS2 FETs on ultra-thin high-κ HfO2. Interestingly, we observe a two-stage threshold voltage shift (ΔVTH) under positive bias temperature stress (PBTS) and hot carrier degradation (HCD), attributed to electron trapping in preexisting traps and the generation of hydrogen-assisted donor traps within the gate oxide. In contrast, devices fabricated on exfoliated hBN lack this two-stage ΔVTH, implying such donor trap generation is induced by atomic-layer-deposition (ALD) processes used in HfO2-based devices. Refining the ALD process emerges as a key strategy for enhancing the stability of 2D FETs to meet silicon CMOS standards.
The preoperative prognostic nutritional index is a prognostic indicator of postoperative pulmonary complications in patients with gynecological cancer
Authors: Jo Woo-Young , Seo Jeong-Hwa , Choi Seungeun , Kim Hee-Soo , Kim Yoon Jung
Published: April 2024

The prognostic nutritional index (PNI) reflects systemic inflammation and nutritional status. This study aimed to evaluate the predicting ability of the preoperative PNI regarding postoperative pulmonary complications (PPCs) in patients with gynecological cancer. Demographic, laboratory, and clinical data were retrospectively collected from 4887 patients who underwent gynecological cancer surgery. Preoperative PNIs were calculated from serum albumin levels and total lymphocyte counts. Primary outcome was PPCs, a composite outcome including acute respiratory distress syndrome, pneumonia, atelectasis, pleural effusion, and pneumothorax within postoperative day 15. An optimal cut-off value of 49.4 for the PNI score was determined using the receiver operating characteristic curve. The study used the stabilized inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) method to reduce bias and compare between the high (n = 2898.5) and low PNI groups (n = 1290.4). The incidence of PPCs is significantly higher in the low PNI group than in the high PNI group (8.9% vs 17.0%, p < 0.001). In the multivariate logistic regression model after IPTW adjustment, a low preoperative PNI was an independent predictor of PPCs (odds ratio [95% confidence interval] 1.93 [1.53, 2.43], p < 0.001). Low preoperative PNIs are associated with PPCs in patients undergoing surgery for gynecologic cancer.
Femtosecond laser multiple pulse-induced thermochemical copper precipitation from glyoxylic acid copper complex ink with surfactant
Authors: Ha Nam Phuong , Ohishi Tomoji , Mizoshiri Mizue
Published: March 2024

This paper presents copper (Cu) precipitation from a surfactant-added glyoxylic acid copper (GACu) complex ink through femtosecond laser multiple pulse-induced thermochemical precipitation to realize high resolution Cu direct writing. The influence of the surfactant (n-decanoylsarcosine sodium, NDSS) on the nonlinear absorption properties of GACu complex ink was explored. NDSS addition did not affect the molecule binding and single-photon absorption properties of GACu complex ink. However, nonlinear optical absorptions evaluated via the open aperture z-scan method revealed differences between the NDSS-added and non-added GACu complex inks upon femtosecond laser pulse irradiation. These findings imply that Cu nanoparticles were produced from the GACu complex ink through nucleation and surfactant-mediated growth, and these nanoparticles within the ink led to the saturable absorption of the subsequently irradiated pulses. Furthermore, by irradiating the pulses at repetition frequency of 5 MHz and a pulse number of 2×104, a minimum dot diameter of 1.6 µm was attained with NDSS-added ink, matching the laser spot diameter, without excessive precipitation due to thermal diffusion. This fundamental comprehension of the effects of the surfactant NDSS and pulse numbers on the Cu precipitation process can be applied to the direct writing of various materials.
Fluoride impairs vascular smooth muscle cells via disrupting amino acids metabolism
Authors: Li Yan , Yang Ru-Ru , Li Xin-Ying , Liu Wei-Wei , Zhao Yi-Ming , Zu Ming-Man , Gao Yi-Hong , Huo Min-Qi , Jiang Yu-Ting , Li Bingyun
Published: April 2024

Given the insidious and high-fatality nature of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), the emergence of fluoride as a newly identified risk factor demands serious consideration alongside traditional risk factors. While vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) play a pivotal role in the progression of CVDs, the toxicological impact of fluoride on VSMCs remains largely uncharted. In this study, fluoride aggravated the pathological damage of rat aorta in vivo. Then rat VSMC lines (A7R5) were exposed to fluoride with concentration ranging from 0 to 1200 μmol/L over a 24-hour period, revealing a dose-dependent inhibition of cell proliferation and migration. The further metabolomic analysis showed alterations in metabolite profiles induced by fluoride exposure, notably decreasing organic acids and lipid molecules level. Additionally, gene network analysis underscored the frequency of fluoride's interference with amino acids metabolism, potentially impacting the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle. Our results also highlighted the ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters pathway as a central element in VSMC impairment. Moreover, we observed a dose-dependent increase in osteopontin (OPN) and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) mRNA level and a dose-dependent decrease in ABC subfamily C member 1 (ABCC1) and bestrophin 1 (BEST1) mRNA level. These findings advance our understanding of fluoride as a CVD risk factor and its influence on VSMCs and metabolic pathways, warranting further investigation into this emerging risk factor.
Single- Versus Multi-Fraction Spine Stereotactic Radiosurgery (ALL-STAR) for Patients with Spinal Metastases: a Randomized Phase III Trial
Authors: Pratapneni Aniket , Klebaner Daniella , Soltys Scott Gerard , Rahimy Elham , Gibbs Iris Catrice , Chang Steven Daniel , Li Gordon , Gephart Melanie Hayden , Veeravagu Anand , Szalkowski Gregory Arthur , Gu Xuejun , Wang Lei , Chuang Cynthia , Liu Lianli , Jackson Scott , Skerchak Jillian Adele , Huang Kelly Zhe , Wong Samantha , Brown Eleanor , Pollom Erqi Liu
Published: April 2024

Background: For patients with spine metastases, stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) provides excellent local control and pain response. Despite increasing use of this treatment modality, there is no consensus on the optimal dose and fractionation of spine SRS for efficacy and toxicity. We have initiated a phase III randomized trial that compares two dose regimens with similar biological equivalent dose (BED) to determine the isolated effect of SRS fractionation on local control.
Methods: Patients with one to three cervical, thoracic, or lumbar spine metastases spanning no more than two contiguous vertebral levels in need of radiation will be eligible for enrollment. Patients will be assigned 1:1 to receive either 22 Gy in 1 fraction or 28 Gy in 2 fractions. Biased coin randomization will be used to minimize the size difference between arms, and randomization will incorporate the following strata: gastrointestinal histology (yes/no), paraspinal tissue extension (yes/no), epidural compression (low-/high-grade), and number of sites treated (one to three).
The primary endpoint is one-year local control, defined per Spine Response Assessment in Neuro-Oncology (SPINO) criteria. The secondary endpoints include patient-reported health-related quality of life (HRQOL), pain associated with the treated site, vertebral compression fracture (VCF), and two-year local control. Patients will be followed for these outcomes at one to two weeks, one month, three months, and six months after treatment, and every six months thereafter until 24 months after treatment.
Discussion: The studies published thus far comparing the single- and multi-fraction SRS are lacking long-term local control outcomes and are limited by selection bias as well as single-fraction arms with higher BED, which is correlated with improved local control. Our study will compare one-year local control in patients treated with 28 Gy in 2 fractions and the biologically equivalent single-fraction dose of 22 Gy. We will additionally compare the two arms with respect to two-year local control, pain response, adverse events, VCF, and HRQOL.
Machine Learning Models for Point-of-Care Diagnostics of Acute Kidney Injury
Authors: Chen Chun-You , Chang Te-I , Chen Cheng-Hsien , Hsu Shih-Chang , Chu Yen-Ling , Huang Nai-Jen , Sue Yuh-Mou , Chen Tso-Hsiao , Lin Feng-Yen , Shih Chun-Ming , Huang Po-Hsun , Hsieh Hui-Ling , Liu Chung-Te
Published: April 2024

Background
Computerized diagnostic algorithms could achieve early detection of acute kidney injury (AKI) only with available baseline serum creatinine (SCr). To tackle with this weakness, we tried to construct a machine learning model for AKI diagnosis based on point-of-care clinical features regardless of baseline SCr.
Methods
Patients with SCr > 1.3 mg/dL were recruited retrospectively from Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei. A Dataset A (n = 2,846) was used as the training dataset and a Dataset B (n = 1,331) was used as the testing dataset. Point-of-care features, including laboratory data and physical readings, were inputted into machine learning models. The repeated machine learning models randomly used 70% and 30% of Dataset A as training dataset and testing dataset for 1,000 rounds, respectively. The single machine learning models used Dataset A as training dataset and Dataset B as testing dataset. A computerized algorithm for AKI diagnosis based on 1.5x increase in SCr and clinician’s AKI diagnosis compared to machine learning models.
Results
The repeated machine learning models showed accuracy of 0.65 to 0.69. The single machine learning models showed accuracy of 0.53 to 0.74. The computerized algorithm show accuracy of 0.86 to 0.95. Clinician’s diagnosis showed accuracy of 0.52 to 0.57. The clinical features with leading impact on model output included blood lymphocyte, white blood cell, platelet, SCr, aspartate aminotransferase, systolic blood pressure, and pulse rate.
Conclusions
The machine learning models were able to diagnose AKI in the context of absent baseline SCr and showed superior accuracy than clinicians have.
Deep Neural Networks Hydrologic and Hydraulic Modeling in Flood Hazard Analysis
Authors: Hawamdeh Alaa , Tarawneh Anwar , Sharrab Yousef , Al-Fraihat Dimah
Published: April 2024

Natural disasters can be devastating to the environment and natural resources. Flood inundation mapping and hydraulic modeling are essential to forecast critical flood information, including flood depth and water surface height. In this research, several factors that influence floods were studied. These factors include the intensity of the rainstorm, the depth of precipitation, soil types, geologic settings, and topographic features. Furthermore, the research carried out hydraulic modeling of storm flows for 50- and 100-Year return periods and estimated that the water depth in Wadi Al Wala could reach 15m at 50 years of storm and 25m at 100 return years of storms. A DNN model is developed with good accuracy to predict flood flow based on historical records from 1980 to 2018 meteorological data. The goal of this research is to improve flood prediction, and risk assessment with the use of DNN integrated with hydrological and hydraulic models.
Security & Driver Assistance In VANET Using Edge Computing
Authors: Managuli Manjunath , Managuli Sangamesh
Published: April 2024

The research introduces a priority-based fog computing model designed to mitigate delay and latency challenges in connected vehicles within smart cities. This model utilizes VANET (Vehicular Ad-hoc Networks) and fog computing as intermediaries between vehicles and the cloud, providing processing, storage, and networking capabilities. The goal is to establish a smart and autonomous transportation system, leveraging Cellular Vehicle-to-Everything (C-V2X) connectivity and roadside units (RSUs) for various vehicular applications. To enhance task processing efficiency, the research proposes an efficacy utility and a knapsack-based task scheduling algorithm for fog servers located near RSUs. The results indicate that the 0/1 Knapsack algorithm is the most effective of the four algorithms considered, as it maximizes total priority while considering both the priority and size of tasks. Overall, this research contributes to the advancement of a smart and autonomous transportation system by addressing the experiments related to delay and latency in fog adding and VANET.
Foot Pressure Classification and Feature Extraction Based on Multiple Fusion Algorithms
Authors: Bai Xiaotian , Hou Xiao , Song Yiling , Tang Zhengyan , Huo Hongfeng , Liu Jingmin
Published: April 2024

Objective
Using multiple fusion algorithms to optimize the classification and feature extraction of foot pressure during walking stance phase in healthy people, and explore the diversity of foot pressure distribution.
Methods
243 healthy young male individuals was studied to collect data on plantar impulse and maximum pressure indices from ten distinct regions of the foot during walking. Principal component analysis was utilized to reduce the dimensionality of the data. Optimized clustering and feature extraction algorithms categorized the foot pressure characteristics and extracted key indicators. Classification discriminant functions were developed using linear discriminant analysis. Analysis of variance compared the differences in features between various foot pressure distribution patterns.
Results
Three types of foot pressure distribution were identified by multiple fusion algorithms, and four indicators were extracted, including impulses of Toe1, Meta1, Meta5 and Midfoot. The average accuracy rates of original data and cross-validation were 89.70% and 88.50%. Based on one-way analysis of variance, the distribution types were ultimately determined as Thumb Extension Type, Midfoot-Lateral Forefoot Push-off Type, and Normal Type.
Conclusion
Foot pressure distribution during walking in healthy people can be categorized into Thumb Extension Type, Midfoot-Lateral Forefoot Push-off Type, and Normal Type. Among them, the impulses around the first metatarsophalangeal joint region, fifth metatarsal bone region and midfoot region showed better classification performance. It is recommended that future studies combine the current findings and use prospective studies to further analyze the relationship between gait characteristics and sports injuries.
High-order accuracy identification framework for stochastic differential equation with Gaussian white noise
Authors: Wang Bochen , Wang Liang , Peng Jiahui , Dong Shuangqi , Xu Wei
Published: April 2024

This paper presents a high-order accuracy data-driven identification framework for stochastic differential equation (SDE) with the Gaussian white noise. The framework improves the accuracy in discovering SDE from the data collected at low frequencies. It first approximates the increment of data as a one-step mapping. The truncated terms of the approximation are the higher order terms of the time step of the collected data. Therefore, the mapping can approximate the data collected with large time steps, i.e., low frequencies with high-order accuracy. Then, the framework approximates the mapping as the Fourier series with a high rate of convergence, which is called the double-even extended series. In this way, we can approximate the average change of SDE with high accuracy and do not need knowledge about the change. After determining the coefficients of the Fourier series from data, the new framework finds an accurate approximation of the SDE. We apply the new framework to achieve the identification of an SD oscillator and a glycolytic oscillation. The new framework accurately discovers the SDEs from data collected at low frequencies, e.g., 4 HZ and 2.5 HZ. Identified SDEs can accurately predict stochastic responses. To the best of the authors' knowledge, the frequency is much lower than existing SDE identification methods.
A diffusion-reaction synergism model for concrete carbonation: Combined effects of calcium leaching and temperature
Authors: Mo Rui , Wang Jing-xiang , Wu Ling-jun
Published: March 2024

The deterioration behavior caused by carbonization can reduce the durability of concrete structures. This study established a diffusion-reaction synergism model of concrete carbonation depth considering calcium leaching and temperature field, and predicted the influence of calcium leaching process and temperature on the carbonation resistance of concrete. Specifically, calcium leaching is described using solid-liquid equilibrium curves. The model was validated using published experimental data. The effects of calcium leaching, temperature, and concrete water saturation on carbonation are analyzed. The results show that the calcium leaching effect has a strong influence on the carbonation of concrete, so future models need to include it.
Pregnancy Entails a U-Shaped Trajectory in Human Brain Structure Linked to Hormones and Maternal Attachment
Authors: Servin-Barthet Camila , Martínez-García Magdalena , Paternina-Die María , Marcos-Vidal Luis , de Blas Daniel Martín , Soler Anna , Khymenets Olha , Bergé Daniel , Casals Gemma , Prats Pilar , Pozo Óscar , Pretus Clara , Carmona Susana , Vilarroya Oscar
Published: March 2024

Growing evidence places the gestational period as a unique moment of heightened neuroplasticity in adult life. In this longitudinal study, we unveiled a U-shaped trajectory in gray matter (GM) volume, which dips in late pregnancy and partially recovers during postpartum. These changes were most prominent in brain regions associated with the Default Mode and Frontoparietal Network, which also showed an increased global efficiency and density connectivity. The U-shaped trajectory was predominantly linked to gestational factors, as it was only present in gestational mothers and correlated with fluctuations in estrogens over time. Finally, the mother’s mental health status mediated the relationship between postpartum GM volume recovery and maternal attachment at six months postpartum. This research sheds light on the complex interplay between hormones, brain development, and behavior during the transition to motherhood. It addresses a significant knowledge gap in the neuroscience of human pregnancy and opens new possibilities for interventions aimed at enhancing maternal health and well-being.