bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Local and non-local chemical potential and hardness: A grand canonical ensemble approach
Authors: Zerón Paulino , Pantoja-Hernández Maurizio A. , Franco-Pérez Marco , Gázquez José L. 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Context
The formulation of conceptual density functional theory in the grand canonical ensemble provides a theoretical framework that allows one to establish additional insights about the response functions that characterize this approach. In particular, through this procedure one can establish the local counterpart of the chemical potential which, when integrated over all the space, leads to the global quantity, and the local counterpart of the hardness that not only provides a function free of ambiguities, but also generates through its integration over all the space the well-defined value of the global quantity given by the difference of the vertical first ionization potential and electron affinity. In the present work the non-local counterpart of these local reactivity descriptors are derived making use of the Fukui kernel descriptor previously developed by us. Then, the local and non-local chemical potential and hardness thus obtained, are applied to study site and bond reactivities of several systems, to rationalize the behavior of kinetic and thermodynamic properties, through the chemical information that these indexes provide.
Methods
The electronic structure calculations required to evaluate the reactivity indexes analyzed in this work were done with the PBE0 exchange-correlation energy functional. The geometry optimization was done in all cases in a modified version of the NWChem program, while the Hirshfeld population analysis was done in a modified version of the demon2k program. For the electrophilic addition of hydrogen halides (HX) to several substituted ethenes and the hydration reaction of aldehydes and ketones the 6-311G** basis set was used, while for the bond enthalpies of chemical reactions where there is a homolytic bond break, and the trans influence in which the lability of the leaving ligand is modified by the ligand opposite to it, the Def2-TZVP was used.
Perception, travel satisfaction associated with the use of electric moped scooters: Evidence from Suzhou, China
Authors: Liu Jiayi , Guo Jia , Li Ruoning , Xu Jue 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Electric moped scooters have rapidly emerged as the preferred mode of transportation for short-duration travelers, owing to their compact size, reliability, convenience, and cost-effective. As one of the most popular short-duration transport modes in China, however, only very few studies have explored the relationship between commuting satisfaction, users perception, socio-demographics, and usage of the e-moped scooter. What is more, there is a dearth of research on the usage frequency of e-moped scooter for various travel purposes. In practice, individuals often consider their travel needs and objectives when selecting a mode of transport. Thus, to investigate the factors influencing the usage of e-moped scooter, a survey was conducted in Suzhou, China. Generalized ordered logit models were employed for the analysis. The findings suggest that the satisfaction with reliability and driving speed significantly influences the usage of e-moped scooter for commute among frequent users. However, the perception of time-saving has a negative impact on the usage frequency in frequent electric moped scooter users for commute. Moreover, no significant effect of the satisfaction with reliability and driving speed, and the perception of time-saving are found on the use frequency of e-moped scooters for both shopping and recreational activities. By examining the determining factors that influence the utilization of electric moped scooters for various travel purposes, we can enhance individuals' acceptance of this transport mode and promote the development of e-moped scooters in China, and targeted practical implications were given in this study.
Dehydration of Cloudy-diesel Using Poly(Acrylamide-co-sodium Polyacrylate) Hydrogel Grafted Onto Cellulose
Authors: Perez Isadora Dias , Estevam Bianca Ramos , Soares João B.P. , Vieira Melissa Gurgel Adeodato , Fregolente Leonardo Vasconcelos 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

This article discusses the synthesis and application of a novel hydrogel to remove water from diesel. The poly(sodium acrylate-co-acrylamide) grafted onto cellulose hydrogel combines natural and synthetic polymers in a single novel formulation. The synthesized of the hydrogel was evaluated using a 23 full factorial design with two initiation methods (redox or thermal), two cellulose types (cellulose nanocrystal - CNC or hydroxyethyl cellulose - HEC) and two cellulose loadings (4 or 10%) as independent factors. The hydrogel swelling degree and final water concentration on diesel were used as responses. The best performing hydrogel was made with CNC using the redox initiation system. This hydrogel was further analyzed for its kinetic of water uptake from diesel and compared with ungrafted poly(sodium acrylate-co-acrylamide) hydrogels for their maximum swelling degree and water removal from diesel. The cellulose loading on the hydrogel was not found to be significant for the analyzed conditions. The cellulose-grafted hydrogel made with 4% CNC using the redox system achieved a swelling degree of around 139 g.g− 1 and reduced the water content in diesel from 5,000 to 150 mg.kg− 1. Compared to pure ungrafted hydrogel, the cellulose grafted hydrogel swelled less but removed more water from diesel. The hydrogel treatment also reduced the fuel turbidity and made it more compatible with standard requirements. This work demonstrates the successful synthesis of hydrogels of poly(SA-co-AAm) grafted onto cellulose and proves that these novel hybrid compounds can be used as fuel desiccants.
Recurrence Rate of Diabetic Ketoacidosis in A Year and Its Predictors among Diabetes Millets Patients Who are on Follow-Up at Public Hospitals in Bahir Dar City, Bahir Dare, Northwest Ethiopia, 2024, A Retrospective Follow up Study
Authors: Tadlo Asnaku , Wudie Gebiyaw , Gezachew Beselam , Habitamu Desyalew , Lidetu Tadios 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background: Diabetic ketoacidosis is an acute life-threatening complication of diabetes mellitus. Different literature showed that many diabetes mellitus patients develop diabetic ketoacidosis frequently. However, there is scarcity of updating data on the recurrence of diabetic ketoacidosis and its predictors among diabetes mellitus patients in Amhara Regional State, Ethiopia.
Methods and Materials: An institution based retrospective follow up study design was conducted and 378 charts of diabetic patients were selected through a systematic random sampling technique. Data were entered using Epi Data version 4.4.6 and then exported to STATA for the final analysis. Negative binomial regression model was used at a 95% confidence level. Statistical significance of the predictor on outcome variables was declared at P-value less than five percent (< 0.05).
Results: In this study, 378 charts reviewed. The mean recurrence of diabetic ketoacidosis was 0.63. This study found that being female (AIRR = 1.57, 95% CI 1.18- 2.07), type one diabetes mellitus (AIRR = 0.37, 95% CI 0.23- 0.57), longer duration of diabetes mellitus (AIRR = 2.36, 95% CI 1.27- 2.91), acute infection (AIRR = 4.33, 95% CI 2.75- 6.83), comorbidity (AIRR = 1.58, 95% CI 1.18- 2.09), injection type of treatment (AIRR = 0.65, 95% CI 0.44- 0.96) and mixed type of treatment (AIRR = 2.04, 95% CI 1.30- 3.2) were risk factors and medication compliance (AIRR = 0.23, 95% CI 0.17- 0.31) was preventive factor for recurrence of diabetic ketoacidosis.
Conclusion and recommendation: diabetic ketoacidosis leads patients to frequent hospital admission and increases hospital mortality. As a result, health care professionals need to pay more attention to and apply more clinical treatment for patient with type one diabetes mellitus, acute infection, comorbidity, oral type of treatment, and poor medication compliance
Gradient-Guided Swin Transformer with Edge-Aware Fusion for Enhanced Image Super-Resolution
Authors: Qian Chentao , Liu Bailin 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Existing methods still suffer from undesirable structural distortions.To address this issue, we propose incorporating gradients as high-frequency information to enhance structural preservation. Building on this idea, we introduce the Gradient-Guided Swin Transformer-based (SwinGSR), a novel dual-branch transformer for image SR.Specifically, successive Residual Swin Transformer Blocks (RSTBs) are used to extract deep features from the SR branch (SRB) and gradient branche (GB).SwinGSR leverages high-frequency information to prevent edge structure loss and improve image reconstruction with gradient guidance.Furthermore, we propose a Edge-Aware Fusion Module (EAFM), which incorporates several Channel Shuffle Residual Blocks (CSRBs) as its basic blocks and a Multi-Dconv Head Transposed Attention Block (MDTAB) to integrate features from both branches. This approach addresses the Swin Transformer's limited receptive field and improves feature fusion.The CSRBs enhance generalization by applying channel shuffling.Meanwhile, the MDTAB fully utilizes edge feature information.Extensive experiments demonstrate that SwinGSR outperforms previous methods.
Causal associations between diet and aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage: A Mendelian randomization analysis
Authors: Huang Xinyue , Jiang Xutang , Xiao Yinfeng , Gao Wen , Guo Xiumei , Zheng Hanlin , Pan Zhigang , Zheng Shuni , Ke Chuhan , Hu Weipeng , Ye Lichao , Liu Aihua , Zheng Feng 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Numerous observational studies have demonstrated that specific dietary factors influence aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH). However, whether a causal relationship exists between diet and aSAH remains unknown.
Methods
We used a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) method to characterise the causal associations between 26 different diets extracted from the UK Biobank dataset and aSAH risk. The aSAH data were obtained from a meta-analysis of genome-wide association studies from the International Stroke Genetics Union. The inverse variance-weighted method, weighted median, and MR-Egger methods were employed for the MR analyses. A sensitivity analysis was performed to elucidate the heterogeneity and horizontal pleiotropy.
Results
Our results showed that moderate consumption of red wine was associated with a lower risk of aSAH (odds ratio [OR] = 0.136; 95% confidence interval [CI] (0.052–0.353), p < 0.001), with no heterogeneity or horizontal pleiotropy detected. Suggestive correlations were detected between two dietary intakes and aSAH (beef, OR = 6.063, 95% CI (1.203–30.569), p = 0.029; mutton, OR = 4.375, 95% CI (1.273–15.032), p = 0.019). No significant associations were detected between other diets and aSAH.
Conclusions
These findings provide strong genetic evidence for a causal relationship between red wine consumption and aSAH risk. Moderate consumption of red wine was linked to a reduced risk of aSAH. Further larger genome-wide association studies or randomized controlled trials are warranted to confirm these findings.
Childbirth outcomes in women with pregnancy after rape – a comparative study in the Democratic Republic of Congo
Authors: Berg Urban , Mapatano Emile , Hogenäs Maria , Berg Marie 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background: The knowledge about childbirth outcomes in women pregnant after rape is limited. This study was conducted in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), a context of war and conflict where sexual violence is frequent. The aim was to compare the childbirth outcomes in women whose pregnancies resulted from rape with outcomes in other pregnant women.
Methods: The study included women being cared for in a new birthing room designed to promote person-centredness, in a tertiary hospital in eastern DRC comparing childbirth outcomes in two groups: women with pregnancy resulting from rape (n=159), and other pregnant women (n=302). Only women classified as Robson group 1 were included, that is, being nulliparous at term with one foetus in cephalic presentation and spontaneous onset of labour. Women pregnant after rape had followed a specific care programme to prepare them for childbirth and motherhood, with continuity of perinatal midwifery care including prenatal education and empowerment. Data included obstetric and neonatal outcomes, and self-reported fear of birth and childbirth experience. The group of women pregnant after rape were younger (16.8 vs 22.5 years), had lower height (151.3 vs 154.9 cm), had a lower level of education, were mostly living without a partner (1.3% vs 96.7%), and had to a lesser extent an accompanying person present during labour (9.4% vs 37.4%).
Results: The childbirth outcomes did not differ significantly between the groups. The proportion of vaginal births was 81.8% vs 83.4% with very few instrumental births, and of caesarean section 18.2% vs 16.6%. Apgar score <7 after 5 minutes was 3.8% vs 1.3%. The self-reported fear of birth was 61% vs 56%, and the overall childbirth experience was mainly scored as good (8–10 on the VAS-OCE scale) (80.5% vs 84.8%).
Conclusions: Childbirth outcomes in women classified as Robson 1 with pregnancy resulting from rape were as favourable as in other pregnant women when being cared for in a more personally adapted birthing room and getting continuous perinatal preparation and support according to a specific care programme.
Effect of Solid State Fermented (SSF) Biomass on In Vitro Methanogenesis and Dry Matter Digestibility in Adult Surti Buffaloes
Authors: Mathukiya Gaurang Pravinbhai , Pandya Paresh R. , Sorathiya Kalpesh K. , Vilas Rathod Sunil 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

An in vitro rumen fermentation study was conducted to evaluate the effect of supplementation with solid state fermented biomass (SSF) in total mixed rations (TMRs) on total gas production, methanogenesis and dry matter digestibility by using the rumen liquor of adult Surti buffaloes. SSF biomass was supplemented at 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8% with TMR (65% wheat straw and 35% concentrate) for in vitro gas production trials. The results of the in vitro study revealed significantly (P < 0.05) greater IVDMD (58.43%) and lower CH4 production (3.58 ml CH4/100 mg DDM) at a 3% level of SSF biomass addition in TMR. Based on the overall results of in vitro studies, 3% SSF biomass supplementation was found to be most suitable for further in vivo studies in adult Surti buffaloes.
Systems analysis of packaging HDPE plastic recycling chain – an informal sector circular economy case in Brazil, Global South: Stakeholder dynamics, material quality, rejects and value appropriation
Authors:   Nathalia Silva de Souza Lima Cano1, Rutkowski Emília Wanda , Velis Costas A. 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

We uncover the systemic complexities of a polymer recycling chain insufficiently investigated, focusing on high-density polyethylene (HDPE) – a core contributor to plastics pollution in the Global South, via mismanaged waste. Rigid blow-moulded HDPE is widely used in retail packaging and fast-moving consumer goods containers; it is also sought-after for the production of ‘secondary’, recycled HDPE (r-HDPE). Starting from a single location (Brazilian town) and a waste picker cooperative (informal recyclers – IRS), we investigate the collection/sorting of municipal solid waste (MSW) recyclables along the downstream value chain of scrap dealing, reprocessing, and manufacturing. The methodological frameworks of technical networks, material flow analysis (MFA), and complex value optimization for resource recovery were used. Results demonstrate an informal to formal spectrum of operations, with clear transition points. The material quality standards required at manufacturing with r-HDPE are poorly applied at the collection stage, indicating a problematic quality management interfacing. Material rejects (losses), allowable contamination level, and monetised value of recyclate are interlinked at each stage. The most substantial value creation and appropriation is accomplished at the initial collection/sorting waste picker stage, followed by the value creation at the final production of the r-HDPE pellet. Reprocessors bear disproportionate material losses, counterbalanced by purchasing pricing. Despite overall rejects of 29% wt.(ar), a high actual recycling rate for rigid HDPE is achieved: 38% wt.(ar), indicative of an effective collection for recycling and refined manual sorting by the partially formalised IRS. These novel insights on informal recycling networks can inform effective interventions to expand circularity and prevent plastic pollution.
BCI-Pacman: A Novel Brain-Computer Interface Driven Entertainment Game with Four Directional Classes for Pacman Movement
Authors: CHOUAG FOUAD 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

This research presents BCI-Pacman, an innovative entertainment game that incorporates a non-invasive Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) to enable the users to control Pacman's movements in four different directions: top, down, left and right. Building upon the classic Pacman paradigm, the game was developed using C++ programming language alongside the SDL library, while BCI capabilities supported by the OPENVIBE platform and EEG signals were acquired using the EMOTIV EPOC device. Empirical evaluations involving four participants showed a satisfactory success rate exceeding 80% in accurately controlling Pacman using the novel four-directional control classes. This improvement represents a previously unexplored advance in the field of BCI-controlled entertainment gaming. User feedback underlines the usability of game, and highlights its potential as an effective and enjoyable interface for interactive gaming experiences.
Unlocking Diversity's Potential: Challenges and Strategies for Human Resource Management in Higher Education, A Case of the University of Botswana
Authors: Oliver Nyamutswa Tapiwa , Lilian Mutseura 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

This study investigates the challenges and benefits of human resource diversity management at the University of Botswana, addressing a significant gap in existing literature concerning human resource practices in Botswana's state universities. Utilizing a descriptive research design, data were collected through a combination of quantitative and qualitative methods, including surveys and interviews with 98 administrative staff members. Findings reveal a diverse workforce characterized by variations in gender, age, race, and religion, which offers opportunities for enhanced innovation and problem-solving. However, challenges such as language barriers, religious differences, and social groupings hinder effective diversity management. The study recommends the implementation of a comprehensive diversity policy prioritizing qualifications and experience, alongside continuous diversity training to foster inclusivity. Additionally, it advocates for policy reforms to attract international talent. The insights gained contribute to the broader understanding of diversity management within higher education contexts in Botswana and beyond.
Simple gangliosides co-localize with amyloid plaques and increase with age in a transgenic mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Wang Wenxuan , Myers Sarah J. , Ollen-Bittle Nikita , Whitehead Shawn N. 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease accounting for two-thirds of all dementia cases, and age is the strongest risk factor. Beyond the amyloid hypothesis, lipid dysregulation is now recognized as a core component of AD pathology. Gangliosides are a class of membrane lipids of the glycosphingolipid family and are enriched in the central nervous system (CNS). Ganglioside dysregulation has been implicated in various neurodegenerative diseases, including AD, but the spatial distribution with respect to amyloid-beta (Aβ) deposition is not well understood. To address this gap, matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) was employed to investigate the age-dependent expression profile of A-series ganglioside species GD1a, GM1, GM2, and GM3 in the APP/PS1 transgenic mouse model of AD that develops age-dependent amyloid-beta (Aβ) plaques. This study utilized a dual resolution approach combining whole brain imaging for comprehensive detection of ganglioside expression across neuroanatomical regions with high-resolution imaging of the cerebral cortex and hippocampus to interrogate plaque-associated ganglioside alterations. Results showed age-dependent changes in the complex gangliosides GM1 and GD1a across white and grey matter regions in both wildtype and APP/PS1 mice. Significantly higher levels of simple gangliosides GM2 and GM3 were observed in transgenic mice at 12 and 18 months compared to age-matched controls in the cortex and dentate gyrus of the hippocampus. Accumulation of GM3 co-localized with Aβ plaques in the aged APP/PS1 mice, and correlated with Hexa gene expression supporting ganglioside degradation as a mechanism for the accumulation of GM3 This work is the first to demonstrate that age-related ganglioside dysregulation is spatiotemporally associated with Aβ plaques using sophisticated MSI and reveals novel mechanistic insights underlying lipid regulation in AD.
GNA15 signaling facilitates the initial phases of pancreas cell transformation and is associated with the basal-like/squamous subtype
Authors: Zolghadri Yalda , Wilkie Thomas M. , Venturini Elisa , Malpeli Giorgio , Zanotto Marco , Mirzaei Farnoosh , Valenti Maria Teresa , Choudhuri Shreoshi Pal , Salvia Roberto , Paiella Salvatore , Pea Antonio , Giacomello Luca , Bassi Claudio , Innamorati Giulio 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Curative intervention of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remains substantially precluded because cancer cells typically spread asymptomatically before diagnosis.
We previously described GNA15 ectopic expression in neoplastic and pre-neoplastic PDAC lesions. Here, we show that GNA15deletion in a mouse model of Kras-dependent PDAC reduced pancreatic neoplastic lesions. Several studies stratified PDAC patients in the “classical/progenitor” and the “basal-like/squamous” molecular subtypes. We find GNA15 expression strongly associated with the “basal-like/squamous” subtype. Bioinformatic data and experimental results from PDAC cell lines and PDX revealed a gene signature implicated in cell-cell or cell-matrix interactions and invasiveness. GNA15 loss-of-function in PDAC cell lines promoted aggregation and reduced the expression of genes supporting cell invasion, such as PLAUR and FN1. Recently, the observation that cells belonging to both subtypes co-exist in the same patient was interpreted as the clonal evolution of the disease from the “classical/progenitor” to “basal-like/squamous”. The simultaneous association of GNA15 with early PDAC stages and the “basal-like/squamous” phenotype challenges this sequential progression while supporting a role for GNA15 in the early asymptomatic dissemination of the disease. The GNA15 signature could contribute a highly specific combination of bio markers and therapeutic targets to trace and eradicate the cellular component responsible for PDAC lethality.
The relationship between diabetes and the severity of pneumonia, a research article
Authors: Yousef Haidar , Al-Ghofary Amjad , Aldawud Abdalaziz , Al-Bardan Hussam 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

This article aimed to evaluate the relation between diabetes and the severity of pneumonia by determining the proportion of diabetes type 2 in patients with pneumonia, identifying characteristics of diabetes such as duration of infection and complications associated with the disease, and identifying poor outcomes of pneumonia such as the admission in the intensive care unit indication and the need for ventilation, and finally to determine the relation between the severity of pneumonia, poor outcomes and diabetes.