bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Computational modelling of the semi-classical quantum vacuum in 3D
Authors: Zhang Zixin , Aboushelbaya Ramy , Torres Rui , Grismayer Thomas , Ouatu Iustin , Denis Elliott , James Abigail , Timmis Robin , Leyen Marko von der , Norreys Peter , Silva Luis 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

The commissioning of multi-Petawatt laser systems is gathering pace around the world, promising unparalleled access to ultra-high electromagnetic fields for fundamental Physics studies. Here, we present the first three-dimensional simulation results of two quantum vacuum effects using a semi-classical numerical solver for the Heisenberg-Euler Lagrangian. The simulation model is benchmarked against vacuum birefringence analytical results using counter-propagating probe and pump pulses. Simulations of both plane-wave and Gaussian pulses show results consistent with theoretical predictions. The solver is then applied to four-wave mixing using three realistic Gaussian pulses for the first time. First results of the polarisation and power of the output pulse and the number of photons obtained from the interaction are obtained and compared with theory. The output power and polarisation dependence on input polarisation is also investigated, and found to be consistent with the theoretical predictions.
Evolution of the charophyte meadows in an Early Cretaceous karstic lake (La Pedrera de Meià Konservat-Lagerstätte, Southern Pyrenees): integration of charophyte paleoecology and geochemical proxies
Authors: Cano Jordi Pérez , Gil-Delgado Alejandro , Oms Oriol , Mercedes-Martí Ramon 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

The combined taxonomic and palaeoecological analysis of charophyte-rich carbonate microfacies is proven to be a useful methodology for the palaeoenvironmental reconstruction of continental settings. However, the integration of these charophyte assemblages with geochemical proxies has not been explored, yet. In the present work, the charophyte-rich muddy carbonates of the Barremian La Pedrera de Meià Konservat-Lagerstätte (Southern Pyrenees, Spain) were studied from a taxonomic, taphonomic, and palaeoecological viewpoint, and the results were later compared with previously published paleoenvironmental proxies (δ13C, δ18O, and elemental geochemistry). In the studied locality, monospecific Echinochara cf. lazarii-Charaxis spicatus meadows are only found in the ephemeral lakes recorded in the lower stages of lake infilling. The high Al, K, Fe and Ti concentrations and δ18O values previously described in these carbonates indicate meteoric infilling followed by evaporation periods. Freshwater and brackish communities are found in the upper stage of lake infilling. Freshwater settings had mixed meadows with Atopochara-Clavatoraxis, Clavatoroid-Clavatoraxis, and Ascidiella-Favargerella plants, while the brackish environments, that occurred laterally to freshwater, contain meadows dominated by Porochara? – Charaxis sp., and Echinochara cf. lazarii-Charaxis spicatus plants. Miliolids and broken dasycladaceans also occur in these facies. Sr/Ba ratios, REE + Y concentrations, and δ13C and δ18O values previously described in the carbonates of this part of the section indicates prevalence of freshwater environments with occasional marine influence, which agrees with the occurrence of distinct brackish and freshwater charophyte assemblage and marine-affinity organisms, suggesting that during the last stage of evolution, the lake was part of a coastal wetland. This work demonstrates that the integration of geochemical, palaeontological and palaeoecological datasets improves the understanding of the fossil continental settings and their evolution.
Explainable machine learning for groundwater contamination by arsenic remobilization from a vadose zone
Authors: Tran Tho Huu Huynh , Kim Sang Hyun , Nguyen Quynh Hoang Ngan , Kwon Man Jae , Chung Jaeshik , Lee Seunghak 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

The vadose zone serves as a barrier retaining arsenic (As) from reaching groundwater. However, previous studies revealed that retained As can be remobilized from vadose zone under wet–dry cycles, increasing contamination risks. This study quantified As remobilization and developed a predictive model using soil properties. Twenty-two unsaturated soil columns with varying characteristics underwent wet-dry cycles after As retention, resulting in remobilization of 13.9–150.6 mg/kg of As (37.0–74.6% of retained As). A random forest model was established to predict As remobilization using soil properties, including organic matter (OM) content, iron (Fe) content, uniformity coefficient, D30 (particle diameter at which 30% by weight of soil is finer), and bulk density. Shapley additive explanation (SHAP) analyses revealed that D30, inter-related with Fe content, exhibited the highest contribution to As remobilization, followed by OM content, partially mediated by bulk density, offering insights into groundwater contamination risks under fluctuating meteorological conditions.
A universal pathway for solar flare eruptions
Authors: Cheng Rui , Wang Zhao , Jin Xuejian , chen Yanhong , Shi Lulin , Wang Guodong , Zhou Zexian , Zhang Jinfu , Wu Xiaoxia , Lei Yu , Wang Yuyu , Zhang Yanshi , Chen Liangwen , Liu Shuai , Zhu Bingli , Zhao Yongtao , Yang Jie , Ma Xinwen 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Solar flares are driven by a rapid release of magnetic energy accumulated quasi-statically in the solar corona. This energy accumulation, driven by magnetohydrodynamics processes, occurs in macroscale systems, while its release is governed by kinetic effects at microscale. The vast separation in system scales hinders the understanding of cross-scale energy cascades, leaving the question of how flare eruptions are initiated unresolved. Here, we report laboratory experiments that replicate the complete evolution of coronal magnetic energy from quasi-static accumulation to abrupt release and subsequent eruption. The experiments adopt the most common bipolar field in solar active regions, and drive magnetic energy accumulation with the most prevalent quasi-static stress. We show that the accumulated energy is stored in a magnetohydrodynamics-governed current sheet located at the polarity inversion line of the bipolar field. The current density and thickness of the current sheet continuously vary with energy storage, ultimately falls into kinetic regimes. We found that the current sheet, governed by kinetic effects, rapidly undergoes unstable fragmentation. Concurrently, plasmoid-mediated magnetic reconnection is triggered, initiating magnetic eruptions. Our results demonstrate a universal pathway for flare eruptions and how the current sheet and plasmoid-mediated reconnection function in this process, placing critical constraints on solar eruptions.
A Novel Approach Data Security in Cloud Using Authenticationwith Blockchain Authorization
Authors: Tiwari Chandra Sekhar , Jha Vijay Kumar 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Biometric Authentication (BA) is frequently used for authentication owing to its high recognition rate. The existing biometric hiding algorithms execute data embedding on areas that do not encompass key features of the biometric. Moreover, these techniques lacked authorization. Thus, a Secure Data Transfer model with BA and Blockchain (BC)-based authorization is proposed. Primarily, the data owner registers their details and the registered face and palm image undergoes pre-processing. By employing Pruned Residual Network 50 (PRESNET 50), the facial landmarks are extracted from the pre-processed face image. Next, Digit Folding based Log Facial Jaw Points Curve Cryptographic (DF-LFJPCC) is executed based on the jaw points to generate a secret key. Then, the Tan Sigmoid-based Convolutional Neural Network (TS-CNN) classifier is trained with the features of the pre-processed images and facial landmarks. After registration, the user logins, and their processed face and palm features are given to the trained TS-CNN for authenticating the user. The secret is also used to improve the authentication process. After successful login, the file to be uploaded is converted into cipher, which is then encrypted using Log Facial Jaw Points Curve Cryptographic (LFJPCC) and uploaded to the cloud server. In the end, authorization is performed in the BC based on the hashcode generated using Faro shuffle -Tiger (FS-Tiger) when a user requests data. As per the experimental analysis, the proposed technique outperforms prevailing models.
Exploring Barriers and Facilitators for the Potential Implementation of the Decision Tool-Functional Independence in Primary Care
Authors: Molenaar E. A.L.M. , Barten J. A. , Bleijenberg N. , Wit de N. J. , Veenhof C. 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
The aging population presents challenges for healthcare, particularly in maintaining the functional independence of older adults. The Decision Support Tool for Functional Independence was developed to identify declines in functional independence and promote collaboration between healthcare professionals. This study examines the barriers and facilitators to implementing the tool in primary care.
Methods
Thirteen healthcare professionals and two focus groups with older adults participated in this study, which was guided by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research. Thematic analysis, both deductive and inductive, was used to identify and analyze the barriers and facilitators to implementation.
Results
Key facilitators included the tool’s potential to enhance collaboration, support informed decision-making, and address societal pressures related to aging. However, four main barriers emerged: limited applicability in certain contexts, time constraints, issues of ownership among stakeholders, and challenges in preventive outreach.
Conclusions
The diversity and complexity of factors influencing the implementation of the Decision Support Tool for Functional Independence highlight the need for multifaceted, tailored strategies. Future research should focus on developing customized approaches to overcome identified barriers, exploring adaptations for a broader audience, and determining the appropriate healthcare professionals for the tool’s practical application. The potential of the tool to foster professional collaboration and alleviate societal challenges emphasizes its relevance in primary care.
Brazil’s experiment to expand its medical workforce through private and public schools. Impacts and consequences of the balance of regulatory and market forces in resource- scarce settings
Authors: Scheffer Mário , Mosquera Paola , Cassenote Alex , McPake Barbara , Russo Giuliano 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background. There is a global shortage of doctors, and governments worldwide are concerned with expanding national medical workforces to improve services. Since 2013 the Government of Brazil has introduced legislation to liberalise the medical education market and implement quotas to improve its supply of physicians – the Mais Médicos (More Doctors) Legislation (MML). Such experience provides an insight for the global debate on the role of the private sector in medical education.
Methods. We draw from the analysis of unique medical demography datasets to assess the impact of those policies on number and distribution of doctors and medical students, composition of the workforce, and quality of training. To analyze the increasing trend of students and physicians, interrupted time-series analysis was conducted using segmented linear regression, comparing two time periods considering the MML as the start of the intervention.
Findings. Within the context of Brazil’s population and economic growth over the last decades, we find that since 2003 Brazil has almost doubled its medical workforce to 2.77 per 1,000 population, with the largest increase recorded after the 2013 legislation. Our analysis shows such growth has benefited poorer, remote states, although the bulk of new doctors and students are still located in the country’s richer regions. The diversity of medical students increased significantly since the More Doctors Legislation, with more female (61.4% in 2023 as opposed to 55.5% in 2013), and mixed-race enrolments (25.5% and 19.4%). However, medical students are still predominantly white (68.7% and 71.6%), and from fee-paying secondary schools (68.1% and 75.8%).
Conclusions. We conclude that Brazil’s policy approach has delivered a substantial overhaul of its medical workforce through a combination of public and private sector policies and discuss the implications for similar countries. Private schools can be critical for expansion; but the data from Brazil suggest the private sector does little to address inequalities and cast doubt on the quality of the training offered.
Hip Abduction Angle and the Risk of Avascular Necrosis (AVN) After Closed Reduction (CR) in Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH)
Authors: Yasin Mohamad Samih , Abukhalaf Bashar , Khateeb Dana Q. , Badayneh Reham , Mufleh Nadine , Twal Basil , AlSamhori Jehad Feras , Aldowekat Osama , Samarah Omar Q. , AbuHassan Freih O. 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Objectives
Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) is a prevalent pediatric orthopedic condition with a prevalence of 5–13 per 1000 live births worldwide. Early detection and management are paramount to mitigate long-term complications such as osteoarthritis and avascular necrosis of the hip (AVN). While various interventions exist, closed reduction (CR) and spica casting play pivotal roles in restoring normal hip anatomy. Given that AVN is a significant concern after CR, we aimed to investigate the correlation between the hip abduction angle in the spica and the risk of AVN.
Methods
This retrospective cohort study was conducted at Jordan University Hospital from 2016–2022. A total of 74 patients, aged up to 20 months, underwent CR, which was followed by CT scans with a minimum 12-month follow-up. CT scans were used for calculating the hip abduction angle, and X-rays were used for determining the Salter classification of AVN.
Results
The mean age at the time of CR was 7.29 ± 2.71 months. Fifty-one percent of the patients had bilateral DDH, and 7.6% had a positive personal or family history of DDH. The mean right and left abduction angles were 60.37° ± 8.03° and 59.53° ± 7.12°, respectively. The mean right and left International Hip Dysplasia Institute (IHDI) scores were 3.13 ± 0.7 and 3.38 ± 0.67, respectively. The mean right and left Salter AVN indices were 0.48 ± 1.13 and 0.55 ± 1.29, respectively. There were statistically significant relationships between right and left Salter (r = 0.793, p < 0.001), between right and left abduction angles (r = 0.335, p = 0.043), between right and left IHDI grades (r = 0.336, p = 0.039), between left IHDI grades and left Salter (r = 0.261, p = 0.047), and between left Salter and age (r = 0.264, p = 0.047). Neither the right nor the left abduction angle was associated with increased right or left Salter AVN grade, as indicated by the p values.
Conclusions
If a patient develops AVN on one side, the other side is also likely to be affected; however, the degree of abduction in CR does not correlate with the AVN rate. There was a correlation between the degree of abduction and the degree of subluxation/dislocation. Additionally, age at reduction is correlated with the risk of AVN.
Computational Approaches to Identification and Characterization of Masitinib as Potential Treatment for Alzheimer's Disease through Molecular Docking and Two-sample Mendelian Randomization
Authors: Li Xindi , Liu Tingwei , Cammann Davis , Cummings Jeffrey L. , Xu Lingyun , Chen Jingchun 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by declines in cognitive and functional abilities. Masitinib has demonstrated potential in AD clinical trials, but its precise mechanism of action in the context of AD remains unclear. Advancing computational techniques is one approach to identifying novel and repurposable agents that may be treatment candidates for AD.
Methods
In this study, we first collected disease-target genes for AD and drug-target genes for masitinib from extensive studies and databases. We identified overlapping genes as candidates and performed molecular docking to determine their binding affinity with masitinib. Following this, two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) was used to evaluate the causal relationship between the brain expression of candidate genes, and AD or cognitive function (CF) in European ancestry (EUR). Genetic colocalization was then used to test for the presence of shared causal variants.
Results
Two candidate genes, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and tyrosine-protein kinase FYN (FYN), were identified as potential drug targets, showing strong binding affinities with masitinib (EGFR: -12.4 kcal/mol; FYN: -7.8 kcal/mol). MR analysis found that higher EGFR expression in the cortex had a significant causal effect on AD liability [P = 1.56 × 10−8, odds ratio (OR) = 1.09] and cognitive function [P = 1.34 × 10−3, OR = 0.98]. We replicated this observation in an independent Finnish population AD cohort [P = 0.018, OR = 1.05]. Sensitivity analyses did not show evidence of heterogeneity or horizontal pleiotropy. Colocalization analysis identified a known AD-risk variant in the EGFR gene, rs74504435, as the shared causal variant.
Conclusion
Our findings demonstrate that the therapeutic effects of masitinib on AD are closely associated with its inhibition of EGFR expression in the brain.
Predictors of physical fitness in rural and urban elderly in West Sumatra during the pandemic mobility restriction period
Authors: Syandra Dwita Ghina , Ilmiawati Cimi , Afriwardi Afriwardi 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Objective
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Indonesian government implemented large-scale mobility restrictions, which may have affected sunlight exposure and physical fitness levels in the elderly. Given that macro- and micronutrients are well-established determinants of physical fitness, this study aimed to investigate the predictors of physical fitness among elderly individuals residing in both rural and urban areas.
Methods
This study employed a cross-sectional design, recruiting elderly participants from both rural (n = 35) and urban (n = 35) areas in West Sumatra, Indonesia. Nutritional intake was estimated using a Food Frequency Questionnaire, while serum 25(OH)D levels were measured via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Physical activity was assessed using the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire, and physical fitness was evaluated through the six-minute walk test. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify predictors of physical fitness.
Results
The physical fitness level of elderly living in the rural area was mostly good (21/35), while in the urban area was mostly poor (24/35). Predictors of physical fitness for the rural elderly were protein intake (OR = 1.25; CI = 1.02–1.53; p = 0.035) and serum 25(OH)D level (OR = 1.12; CI = 1.00-1.26; p = 0.048), while the predictors in urban elderly were fat (OR = 1.31; CI = 1.01–1.69; p = 0.044) and vitamin C (OR = 1.09; CI = 1.01–1.17; p = 0.028) intake.
Conclusion
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the physical fitness levels in elderly living in rural and urban areas are different and predicted by serum 25(OH)D levels and distinct nutritional factors.
Analyzing the Upper Mass Boundary of Main Sequence Stars
Authors: Gonfa Diriba 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

This study analyzes the upper mass boundary of stars on the main sequence, examining the various factors that influence their formation and evolution. The maximum mass of a star is not a fixed value; it fluctuates based on conditions such as stellar winds, metallicity, and the characteristics of the molecular cloud from which the star originates. For decades, the astrophysical community has debated the existence of a maximum mass limit, with estimates typically ranging from 120 to 300 solar masses, contingent upon environmental factors and initial conditions. The formation of massive stars initiates with the gravitational collapse of gas clumps in giant molecular clouds, leading to protostar formation. This phase is characterized by non-homologous collapse, significantly influenced by magnetic fields and accretion dynamics. As material accretes onto the protostar, radiation-driven winds sculpt the surrounding environment, culminating in supernova events. This research reviews several formation mechanisms, including monolithic collapse, competitive accretion, and stellar mergers, each dependent on the initial properties of the interstellar medium (ISM). By analyzing recent simulations and observational data, this work aims to enhance our understanding of the parameters governing massive star formation and their implications for the initial mass function (IMF). Ultimately, this study highlights the complexities of high-mass stars and their vital role in the evolution of the universe.
Dating of mortars from Kastelli hill, Chania based on their physicochemical analyses
Authors: MARAVELAKİ PAGONA-NONİ , Andreadaki-Vlazaki Maria 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

The study of mortars plays a crucial role in determining the chronology of construction phases. According to the database of mortars analysed from historical monuments in Crete and other areas of Greece, significant differences in mortar composition are observed across historical periods. In the present study, 14 mortars from Kastelli Hill and Katre Street in Chania, originating from the fortified wall and neighboring buildings, are analysed. The physico-chemical and mineralogical analysis aims at clarifying the nature of mortars, their manufacturing technology, and, in particular, to compare different construction phases. In addition, comparing historically identified mortars with those under study reveals similarities and differences across construction phases. The indicators considered include the trace elements of aggregates and binder, the characteristics of aggregate grain size, the type of binder (hydraulic or aerial), and the presence of pozzolanic additives. The comparisons indicated that the mortars from the wall were manufactured during the early Roman period, since they are successfully compared with the mortars of buildings identified at that time.