bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Activation of Nrf2 Pathway by 4-Octyl Itaconate Enhances Donor Lung Function in Cold Preservation Settings
Authors: Gao Xinliang , Tang Mingbo , Li Jialin , Ma Jianzun , Liu Zhengrui , Liu Wei 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background: Lung transplantation is the primary treatment for end-stage lung diseases. However, ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) significantly impacts transplant outcomes. 4-Octyl itaconate (4-OI) has shown potential in mitigating organ IRI, although its effects in lung transplantation require further exploration.
Methods: BEAS-2B cells were used to model transplantation, assessing the effects of 4-OI through viability, apoptosis, and ROS assays. qRT-PCR analyzed cytokine transcription post-cold ischemia/reperfusion (CI/R). RNA sequencing and Gene Ontology analysis elucidated 4-OI’s mechanisms of action, confirmed by Western blotting. ALI-airway and lung transplantation organoid models evaluated improvements in bronchial epithelial morphology and function due to 4-OI. ELISA measured IL-6 and IL-8 levels. Rat models of extended cold preservation and non-heart-beating transplantation assessed 4-OI’s impact on lung function, injury, and inflammation.
Results: Our findings indicate that 4-OI (100 μM) during cold preservation effectively maintained cell viability, decreased apoptosis, and reduced ROS production in BEAS-2B cells under CI/R conditions. It also downregulated pro-inflammatory cytokine transcription, including IL1B, IL6, and TNF. Inhibition of Nrf2 partially reversed these protective effects. In cold preservation solutions, 4-OI upregulated Nrf2 target genes such as NQO1, HMOX1, and SLC7A11. In ALI airway models, 4-OI enhanced bronchial epithelial barrier integrity and ciliary beat function after CI/R. Inrat models, 4-OI administration improved lung function and reduced pulmonary edema, tissue injury, apoptosis, and systemic inflammation following extended cold preservation or non-heart-beating lung transplantation.
Conclusions: Incorporating 4-OI into cold preservation solutions appears promising for alleviating CI/R-induced bronchial epithelial injury and enhancing lung transplant outcomes via Nrf2 pathway activation.
Spatial Localisation and Sensing in Two Dimensions via Metamaterials
Authors: Dima Georgiana , Stevens Christopher John 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

In this study, we introduce a two-dimensional metamaterial sensor designed to detect, locate and distinguish between different objects placed into its near field. When an object is placed on the surface of our metamaterial, local changes in one or more of the structure's meta-atoms can be detected. This interaction generally modifies the inductance of the cell, resulting in changes to the overall input impedance of the surface. We derive the properties of the structure and its behaviour in terms of superposition and demonstrate that observing the meta-surface from a single point is sufficient for unambiguous localisation and identification.To model these changes effectively and identify the position of an object, we employ a neural network machine learning algorithm. Our approach enables accurate localisation of all studied objects, with a precision exceeding 98%. Additionally, the distinct signatures of the objects allow for separation between them with an accuracy of over 97%.The potential applications of this platform extend to foreign object detection in metamaterial arrays for wireless power transfer, providing proximity detection for many surfaces such as clothing, car bodies and robotic carapaces. Furthermore, our research suggests the feasibility of implementing a touchscreen type interface requiring only a single waveguide connection.
Next-Generation Superlubric Microvalves for Flexible Robotics: Enhancing Fluid Control with Zero Leakage, Ultralong Life, and Intrinsic Sensing Capability
Authors: Nie Jinhui , An Jie , Jiang Yang , Xiang Xiaojian , Jiang Tao , Wang Kai , Ren Zewei , Tan Zipei 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Valves are critical components in Advanced Fluid Control Systems (AFCS), playing a vital role in applications like soft robotics and medical devices. Traditional mechanical valves usually struggle with issues such as leakage and wear, reducing the efficiency and precision of air-driven systems. This study introduces a superlubricity micro valve (SLMV) that excels in performance and has self-sensing capabilities. The SLMV demonstrated zero helium leakage at pressures over 0.9 MPa and remained defect-free after one million collision and 5000 reciprocating sliding friction testing. Additionally, the valve features self-powered sensing for detecting its open state, enhancing feedback control. The AFCS equipped with SLMVs will significantly enhance the flexibility and functionality of pneumatic flexible robots, and facilitate the development of implantable drug delivery devices that are more durable, compact, safer, and more reliable.
A motivational account of achievement differences in mathematics using TIMSS data: an African focus.
Authors: Olaguro Modiu 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

The article accounts for achievement differences of eighth graders in three African countries, Egypt, Morocco, and South Africa. Using data from the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS, 2015), I found that African students struggle to attain the lowest international benchmark across the three countries. Consequently, efforts were made to explain this phenomenon primarily through the motivational factors of self-concept, interest, and usefulness of mathematics. Findings from single-level and multi-level analyses extended common findings especially the synergy between self-concept and achievement and the eroding gender gap. Interesting findings emanated from the multi-level analyses, especially the inverse relationship between achievement and interest of mathematics at the student and school levels respectively. Amidst the poor achievement of students on the continent, the article extends previous findings on the need for African countries to be more attentive to educating its young ones if it is to develop their untapped potential.
Passive cooling options in combination with vector proofing for indoor heat reduction and mosquito control: a pilot study in rural western Kenya
Authors: Abong'o Bernard , Bange Teresa , Moshi Vincent , Simwero Jacob , Otima Jane , Kwaro Daniel , Maggioni Martina , Ochomo Eric 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
The rapid increase in global temperatures coupled with persistent malaria transmission has significant public health ramifications, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa. Indoor thermal comfort and malaria transmission depend on building designs and structural properties of houses. This study assessed the impact of housing modification, combining passive cooling options with vector proofing for indoor temperature reduction and mosquito control.
Methods
Forty houses were randomly allocated to one of four arms: reflective roof, cross ventilation, mat ceiling or control. Additionally, doors, windows and eaves of the intervention houses were screened for vector proofing. Indoor temperatures and humidity were monitored daily whereas, mosquito numbers were assessed monthly. Community knowledge, attitude, and perception were assessed using structured questionnaires.
Findings
Female An. funestus were 67% lower in screened compared to unscreened houses after modification and 6-fold higher before compared to after screening. Houses with reflective roofs and mat ceilings had significantly lower mean day temperature compared to the control, RR=0.08: 95%CI (0.04-0.17) and RR=0.35: 95%CI (0.17-0.74) respectively. At night, houses with cross ventilation and mat ceiling had significantly higher temperatures compared to the control, RR=2.35:95%CI (1.45-3.84) and RR=6.66: 95%CI (4.09-10.85) respectively. Up to 85% of the households expressed willingness to use their resources to modify their houses.
Interpretation
The combinations of cool roofs and vector proofing are effective for the reduction of indoor temperatures and mosquito control in rural African houses. Cross ventilation is prone to user bias as it relies on household members keeping their doors and windows open for air circulation and cooling whereas mat ceilings are effective in keeping indoor temperature low during the day but are relatively warm at night.
Funding
Funded by SeaFright Labs through Habitat for Humanity International.
Mathematical modeling of CO2 emission reduction of line 107 of bus rapid transit in Tehran (BRT Tajrish Square - Railway Square)
Authors: Rahimi Farid 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

In this paper, we examine the possibility of diminishing carbon dioxide (CO2) discharges from the Tajrish Square - Railway Square rapid bus system (Tehran BRT line 107) by eliminating the Tajrish terminal and substituting it with a conventional station. Decreasing the generation and release of CO2 is a crucial goal of urban administration and environmental preservation. Rapid buses, being one of the most utilized modes of public transportation in Tehran, generate a significant quantity of CO2. Consequently, it is crucial to explore measures that can decrease the production and emission of CO2 from this system. In this research, the main question is what impact removing one of the terminals of Tehran BRT line 107 and replacing it with a regular station will have on reducing the production and emission of CO2 of this system. Also, this hypothesis is raised that based on it, this action will result in a noticeable reduction in the production and emission of CO2 of this system. The results of mathematical modeling show that this action leads to a significant reduction in time, fuel and CO2. By doing this, 2370 minutes in time, 59.25 liters in fuel and 154.168 kilograms of CO2 emissions will be reduced. Eliminating the Tajrish terminal can lead to improving the performance and reducing the pollution of the Tajrish Sq. - Railway Sq. rapid bus system. By eliminating this terminal, the duration of trips will decrease by 12.56% (one-eighth), diesel consumption by 2.71%, and CO2 production by 2.71%. This improvement means increasing efficiency, reducing costs and reducing environmental damages. Therefore, it is recommended that this action be performed as soon as possible and its results be investigated on other bus lines.
Assessment of technological properties of thawing soils under load from a forest machine and a skidding system on slopes
Authors: Каляшов В. А. , Шапиро В. Я. , Григорьев И. В. , Куницкая О. A. , Григорьева О. И. 
Published: August 2024

В Российской Федерации значительная часть территории лесного фонда расположена на вечной мерзлоте. К таким территориям относятся: Республика Саха (Якутия), Республика Коми, Магаданская область, Ямало-Ненецкий автономный округ, Чукотский автономный округ, Мурманская область, значительные территории Сибири и Дальнего Востока. Многие перечисленные регионы обладают большими запасами спелых и перестойных эксплуатационных лесов, причем значительная часть этих запасов расположена в труднодоступных местах, не только по отношению к развитости дорожной сети, но и по рельефу местности. В настоящее время подавляющий объем заготовок древесины в России производится при помощи современных машинных комплексов, в основном, на базе колесных лесных машин. В статье представлена оценка технологических свойств оттаивающих почвогрунтов под нагрузкой от движителя лесной машины, позволяющая произвести обоснованную оценку одного из совокупности технологических свойств различных участков массивов оттаивающих почвогрунтов - их прочности на одноосное сжатие - под нагрузкой от действия лесной машины или трелевочной системы на ее базе на склонах вблизи с границей зоны вечной мерзлоты. Эффективный учет выявленных закономерностей возможен на базе сбора и обработки данных геологических, в первую очередь, гидрогеологических исследований физико-механических свойств и состояний почвогрунтов, слагающих краевую часть поверхности склона.
In the Russian Federation, a significant part of the territory of the forest fund is located on permafrost. Such territories include: the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia), the Komi Republic, the Magadan Region, the Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous Okrug, the Chukotka Autonomous Okrug, the Murmansk Region, significant territories of Siberia and the Far East. Many of the listed regions have large reserves of ripe and over-mature operational forests, and a significant part of these reserves are located in hard-to-reach places, not only in relation to the development of the road network, but also in terms of the terrain of the local area. Currently, the overwhelming volume of wood harvesting in Russia is produced with the help of modern machine complexes, mainly on the basis of wheeled forest machines. The article presents an assessment of the technological properties of thawing soils under load from the propulsion of a forest machine, which allows a reasonable assessment of one of the aggregate technological properties of various sections of thawing soil arrays - their uniaxial compression strength - under load from the action of a forest machine or a skidding system based on it on slopes near the boundary of the permafrost zone-lots. Effective accounting of the revealed patterns is possible on the basis of the collection and processing of geological data, primarily hydrogeological studies of the physical and mechanical properties and conditions of soils composing the marginal part of the slope surface.
Climate change and watershed hydrology: assessing variability in water balance components and groundwater flow patterns
Authors: Abdissa Abera Gonfa , Chuko Fikadu Warku 
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACT

This study aimed to quantify the effect of climate change on water balance and groundwater flow systems over the Walga–Darge watersheds. In this paper, Water and Energy Transfer between Soil, Plants, and Atmosphere under quasi-Steady State and MODFLOW were used to assess the hydrological impact of climate change. The Mann–Kendall test and Sen's slope estimator were used to analyze climate change. The mean annual temperature shows increasing trends, whereas the mean annual precipitation indicates decreasing trends. The simulated annual mean surface runoff is projected to decrease by 17.18, 22.04, and 31.37 for 2040, 2060, and 2080, respectively, compared to the 1980s. The model also indicates a reduction in precipitation and increased temperature causes a relative change in recharge, ranging from a decrease of 2.65, 38.82, 50.91, 61.57, and 75.49 in the 2000s, 2010s, 2040s, 2060s, and 2080s, respectively. The MODFLOW outputs furthermore show that annual groundwater discharge to the stream has decreased by −26.46% from 1985 to 2020 and is expected to decrease by −34.02% by 2080 due to climate change. The results of the study indicate that the increasing trends in temperature and decreasing rainfall amounts pose a significant threat to the sustainable use of water resources.
Performance evaluation of a nonstandard Parshall flume and comparison of experimental techniques for its verification in a drinking water treatment plant
Authors: León José Gabriel , Díaz Lozada José Manuel , Heredia Ligorria Ana Inés , Muchiut Adriana Beatriz , Sentlinger Gabriel , Catalini Carlos Gastón , García Carlos Marcelo , Ragessi Iván Matías 
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACT

This article investigates a nonstandard Parshall flume (Pf) to assess the impact of engineering deficiencies on flow rate (Q) estimation and compare experimental techniques for evaluating its performance in Q quantification and velocity gradient (G) appraisal during rapid mixing. Considering construction and instrumentation issues in the studied Pf, Q estimates were 10% lower than those derived from the standard rating curve (SRC), with 9% of this discrepancy attributable to the high placement of the stilling well scale and 1% to the position of the connecting pipe to the gauging section. When contrasting Q estimates from the SRC to the current rating curve in use and a set of rating curves fitted using salt dilution gauging (SDG), acoustic Doppler velocimetry (ADV), and numerical modeling (CFD), the average differences were −10.2, −8.3, −2.2, and 0.2%, respectively, for the current rating curve in use and those fitted to ADV, SDG, and CFD data. Considering only the instrumental measuring techniques, the SDG exhibited superior fittings (R2 = 0.99), followed by ADV (R2 = 0.95). Calculations of G aligned (9.3%) with CFD estimates support these methods as reliable tools for evaluating and verifying nonstandard Pf performance.
Information and Communications Technology–Based Monitoring Service for Tailored Chronic Disease Management in Primary Care: Cost-Effectiveness Analysis Based on ICT-CM Trial Results
Authors: Oh Sung-Hee , Kang Jae-Heon , Kwon Jin-Won 
Published: August 2024

Background
Information and communications technology–based tailored management (TM) intervention is a novel automatic system in which a smartphone app for the management of patients with hypertension and diabetes, the provider web, and Bluetooth devices are linked. However, little evidence exists regarding the cost-effectiveness of the interventions using mobile apps.

Objective
This study aimed to assess the cost-effectiveness of TM intervention for adult patients with hypertension or diabetes in primary care compared with usual care (UC).

Methods
Cost-effectiveness analysis using a Markov model was conducted from the Korean health care system perspective. Based on 6-month outcome data from an information and communications technology–based tailored chronic disease management (ICT-CM) trial, effectiveness over a lifetime beyond the trial periods was extrapolated using a cardiovascular disease risk prediction model. Costs were estimated using ICT-CM trial data and national health insurance claims data. Health utility weights were obtained from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.

Results
In the base-case analysis, compared with UC, TM was more costly (US $23,157 for TM vs US $22,391 for UC) and more effective (12.006 quality-adjusted life-years [QALYs] for TM vs 11.868 QALYs for UC). The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio was US $5556 per QALY gained. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis showed that the probability of TM being cost-effective compared with UC was approximately 97% at an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio threshold of US $26,515 (KRW 35 million) per QALY gained.

Conclusions
Compared with UC, TM intervention is a cost-effective option for patients with hypertension or diabetes in primary care settings. The study results can assist policy makers in making evidence-based decisions when implementing accessible chronic disease management services.
Claims-Based Algorithm to Identify Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Indications for Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate and Emtricitabine Prescriptions (2012-2014): Validation Study
Authors: Sullivan Patrick Sean , Mera-Giler Robertino M , Bush Staci , Shvachko Valentina , Sarkodie Eleanor , O'Farrell Daniel , Dubose Stephanie , Magnuson David 
Published: August 2024

Background
To monitor the use of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate and emtricitabine (TDF/FTC) and related medicines for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) as HIV prevention using commercial pharmacy data, it is necessary to determine whether TDF/FTC prescriptions are used for PrEP or for some other clinical indication.

Objective
This study aimed to validate an algorithm to distinguish the use of TDF/FTC for HIV prevention or infectious disease treatment.

Methods
An algorithm was developed to identify whether TDF/FTC prescriptions were for PrEP or for other indications from large-scale administrative databases. The algorithm identifies TDF/FTC prescriptions and then excludes patients with International Classification of Diseases (ICD)–9 diagnostic codes, medications, or procedures that suggest indications other than for PrEP (eg, documentation of HIV infection, chronic hepatitis B, or use of TDF/FTC for postexposure prophylaxis). For evaluation, we collected data by clinician assessment of medical records for patients with TDF/FTC prescriptions and compared the assessed indication identified by the clinician review with the assessed indication identified by the algorithm. The algorithm was then applied and evaluated in a large, urban, community-based sexual health clinic.

Results
The PrEP algorithm demonstrated high sensitivity and moderate specificity (99.6% and 49.6%) in the electronic medical record database and high sensitivity and specificity (99% and 87%) in data from the urban community health clinic.

Conclusions
The PrEP algorithm classified the indication for PrEP in most patients treated with TDF/FTC with sufficient accuracy to be useful for surveillance purposes. The methods described can serve as a basis for developing a robust and evolving case definition for antiretroviral prescriptions for HIV prevention purposes.
The Rutgers Omnibus Study: Protocol for Quarterly Web-Based Surveys to Promote Rapid Tobacco Research
Authors: Bover Manderski Michelle T , Young William J , Ganz Ollie , Delnevo Cristine D 
Published: August 2024

Background
Rapid and flexible data collection efforts are necessary for effective monitoring and research on tobacco and nicotine product use in a constantly evolving marketplace. The Rutgers Omnibus Survey (1) provides timely data on awareness and use of new and emerging tobacco products among adults in a rapid manner, (2) provides a platform for measurement experiments to help develop and refine measures of tobacco use that reflect the current marketplace, and (3) generates pilot data for grant applications and scientific manuscripts.

Objective
This study aims to document the first 2 years of the Rutgers Omnibus Study through the reporting of methodology, fielding summaries, and sample characteristics.

Methods
Launched in February 2022 and fielded quarterly thereafter, we survey convenience samples of 2000 to 3000 US adults aged 18-45 years recruited from Amazon Mechanical Turk (MTurk) using the MTurk Toolkit by CloudResearch. The questionnaire includes core and rotating modules and is designed to take approximately 10 minutes to complete through Qualtrics. The fielding duration is approximately 10 days per wave. Each wave includes both unique and repeating participants, and responses can be linked across waves by an anonymous ID.

Results
Sample sizes ranged from 2082 (wave 8, December 2023) to 2989 (wave 1, February 2022), and the 8-wave longitudinal dataset included 10,334 participants, of whom 2477 had 3 or more data points. The cost per complete at each wave was low, ranging from US $2.46 to US $3.27 across waves. Key demographics were consistent across waves and similar to that of the general population, while tobacco product trial and past–30-day use were generally higher.

Conclusions
The Rutgers Omnibus Study is a quarterly survey that is effective for rapidly assessing the use of emerging tobacco and nicotine products and can also be leveraged to conduct survey experiments, generate pilot data, and address both cross-sectional and longitudinal research questions.

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)
RR1-10.2196/58203