bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Synchronization and Random Attractors in Reaction Jump Processes
Authors: Engel Maximilian , Olicón-Méndez Guillermo , Wehlitz Nathalie , Winkelmann Stefanie 
Published: February 2024

AbstractThis work explores a synchronization-like phenomenon induced by common noise for continuous-time Markov jump processes given by chemical reaction networks. Based on Gillespie’s stochastic simulation algorithm, a corresponding random dynamical system is formulated in a two-step procedure, at first for the states of the embedded discrete-time Markov chain and then for the augmented Markov chain including random jump times. We uncover a time-shifted synchronization in the sense that—after some initial waiting time—one trajectory exactly replicates another one with a certain time delay. Whether or not such a synchronization behavior occurs depends on the combination of the initial states. We prove this partial time-shifted synchronization for the special setting of a birth-death process by analyzing the corresponding two-point motion of the embedded Markov chain and determine the structure of the associated random attractor. In this context, we also provide general results on existence and form of random attractors for discrete-time, discrete-space random dynamical systems.
A Hitchhiker’s Ride: The Honey Bee Louse Braula Coeca (Diptera: Braulidae) Selects its Host by Eavesdropping
Authors: Yusuf Abdullahi , Pirk Christian , Crewe Robin 
Published: February 2024

AbstractThe bee louse Braula spp. had until recently a distribution coincident with its host the honey bee. The adult fly usually attaches to a worker honey bee and steals food from its mouth. However, not all worker bees carry Braula spp. and the mechanism used by Braula spp. to select hosts is not well understood. Using choice remounting bioassays and chemical analyses, we determined host selection and the cues used by B. coeca, a species associated with the African honey bee Apis mellifera scutellata. Braula coeca successfully remounted bees from which they were initially removed and preferred their mandibular gland pheromones (MDG) over those of bees not carrying them. The bee lice did not show any preference for the cuticular hydrocarbons of both types of workers. Chemical analyses of the MDG extracts, revealed quantitative differences between the two categories of workers, with workers carrying B. coeca having more of the queen substance (9-oxo-2(E)-decenoic acid) and worker substance (10-hydroxy-2(E)-decenoic). Braula coeca showed a dose response to the queen substance, indicating its ability to use host derived kairomones as cues that allowed it to benefit from trophallactic dominance by individuals that have a higher probability of being fed by other workers.
Exploring the Self-Reported Physical and Psychological Effects in a Population Exposed to a Regional Conflict
Authors: Shamir-Stein Naama , Feldblum Ilana , Rotman Eran , Cohen Shir , Brand Einat , Kivity Sara , Saban Mor 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background
Conflict profoundly impacts community health and well-being. While post-conflict research exists, little is known about initial effects during active hostilities.

Objective
To assess self-reported changes in health behaviors, distress, and care access within one month of regional warfare onset in a conflict-affected community.

Methods
An online survey was conducted in November 2023 among 501 residents (mean age 40.5 years) of a community where war began October 7th. Measures evaluated physical health, mental health, diet, substance use, sleep, weight changes, and healthcare access before and after the declaration of war.

Results
Relative to pre-war, respondents reported significantly increased rates of tobacco (56%) and alcohol (15%) consumption, worsening sleep quality (63%), elevated distress (18% sought help; 14% needed but didn’t receive it), and postponed medical care (36%). Over a third reported weight changes. Distress was higher among females and those endorsing maladaptive coping.

Conclusion
Within one month, substantial impacts on community psychosocial and behavioral health emerged. Unmet mental health needs and risk-taking behaviors were early indicators of conflict’s health consequences. Continuous monitoring of conflict-affected communities is needed to inform tailored interventions promoting resilience and prevent entrenchment of harms over time.
Stability Analysis of Deep Belief Network: Based SD-AR Model for Nonlinear Time Series
Authors: Xu Wenquan , Hu Hui 
Published: February 2024

AbstractAs for nonlinear time series prediction, many different kinds of varying-coefficient models have been proposed and analysised in recent years. A kind of varying functional-coefficient autoregressive model, called the deep belief network-based state-dependent autoregressive (DBN-AR) model is considered in this paper. The stability conditions and existing conditions of limit cycle of the DBN-AR model are also studied. An especial designed parameter estimation method is used to identify the DBN-AR model. The DBN-AR model is used to predict the famous Canadian lynx data and Henon chaotic series, the prediction capability of the DBN-AR model is compared with other prediction models, the experimental results show that the DBN-AR model obtains better prediction accuracy.
Plasma-induced Polymerization and Grafting of Acrylic Acid on the Polypropylene Nonwoven Fabric Using Pulsed Underwater Diaphragm Electrical Discharge
Authors: Kováčik Dušan , Šrámková Petra , Multáňová Patrícia , Stupavská Monika , Siadati Seyedehneda , Ďurina Pavol , Zahoranová Anna 
Published: February 2024

AbstractPolypropylene (PP) nonwovens are used in many hygiene, healthcare and medical products due to their low cost, high chemical resistance and inertness. From an economic point of view, PP textiles would be used as an excellent support material in regenerative medicine or tissue engineering, but here surface functionalization is necessary to ensure cell adhesion and proliferation. Acrylic acid (AAc) is an excellent source of carboxylic-rich (-COOH) coatings suitable for this purpose, but their multistep preparation is time-consuming. Plasma polymerization provides an excellent solution to this demanding procedure since the process of polymerization and grafting to the substrate takes place simultaneously. Here, we propose a relatively fast and effective method for AAc plasma polymerization by using a pulsed underwater diaphragm electrical discharge operated in an aqueous solution consisting of AAc. AAc layers are successfully grafted onto PP nonwovens, which are continuously rewound through the slit where the plasma is generated. The presence of plasma polymerized AAc layer in the fibrous structure of PP nonwoven was monitored by SEM, FTIR and XPS measurements. Additionally, the improved wettability and adhesion characteristics were investigated by the critical wetting surface tension (CWST) method, the standard method of strike-through time (STT) and „tape-peel“ test. Resulting AAc modified PP nonwoven possesses hydrophilic character, enhanced adhesion and a considerable amount of -COOH groups on the surface. Although after the washing test the FTIR and XPS results indicated a lower concentration of the carboxylic groups, the CWST and STT measurements confirmed the stable hydrophilic character of the PP nonwovens surface.
Epistemic Insights as Design Principles for a Teaching-Learning Module on Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Barelli Eleonora , Lodi Michael , Branchetti Laura , Levrini Olivia 
Published: February 2024

AbstractIn a historical moment in which Artificial Intelligence and machine learning have become within everyone’s reach, science education needs to find new ways to foster “AI literacy.” Since the AI revolution is not only a matter of having introduced extremely performant tools but has been determining a radical change in how we conceive and produce knowledge, not only technical skills are needed but instruments to engage, cognitively, and culturally, with the epistemological challenges that this revolution poses. In this paper, we argue that epistemic insights can be introduced in AI teaching to highlight the differences between three paradigms: the imperative procedural, the declarative logic, and the machine learning based on neural networks (in particular, deep learning). To do this, we analyze a teaching-learning activity designed and implemented within a module on AI for upper secondary school students in which the game of tic-tac-toe is addressed from these three alternative perspectives. We show how the epistemic issues of opacity, uncertainty, and emergence, which the philosophical literature highlights as characterizing the novelty of deep learning with respect to other approaches, allow us to build the scaffolding for establishing a dialogue between the three different paradigms.
Impact of hemodialysis on efficacies of the antiplatelet agents in coronary artery disease patients complicated with end-stage renal disease
Authors: Ye Zekang , Wang Qin , Ullah Inam , Lin Qingxia , Wu Tianyu , Yang Mingwen , Fan Yuansheng , Dong Zhou , Wang Tong , Teng Jianzhen , Hua Rui , Tang Yingdan , Li Yule , Gong Xiaoxuan , Yuan Liang , Tao Zhengxian , Li Chunjian 
Published: February 2024

AbstractIt is controversial whether hemodialysis affects the efficacy of the antiplatelet agents. We aimed to investigate the impact of hemodialysis on efficacies of the antiplatelet agents in coronary artery disease (CAD) patients complicated with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). 86 CAD patients complicated with ESRD requiring hemodialysis were consecutively enrolled. After 5-day treatment with aspirin and clopidogrel or ticagrelor, the platelet aggregations induced by arachidonic acid (PLAA) or adenosine diphosphate (PLADP), and the P2Y12 reaction unit (PRU) were measured before and after hemodialysis. The propensity matching score method was adopted to generate a control group with normal renal function from 2439 CAD patients. In patients taking aspirin, the PLAA remained unchanged after hemodialysis. In patients taking clopidogrel, the PLADP (37.26 ± 17.04 vs. 31.77 ± 16.09, p = 0.029) and corresponding clopidogrel resistance (CR) rate (23 [48.9%] vs. 14 [29.8%], p = 0.022) significantly decreased after hemodialysis, though PRU remained unchanged. Subgroup analysis indicated that PLADP significantly decreased while using polysulfone membrane (36.8 ± 17.9 vs. 31.1 ± 14.5, p = 0.024). In patients taking ticagrelor, PLADP, and PRU remained unchanged after hemodialysis. ESRD patients had higher incidences of aspirin resistance (AR) and CR compared to those with normal renal function (AR: 16.1% vs. 0%, p = 0.001; CR: 48.4% vs. 24.8%, p = 0.024). Hemodialysis does not have negative effect on the efficacies of aspirin, clopidogrel and ticagrelor in ESRD patients with CAD. ESRD patients have higher incidences of AR and CR compared with those with normal renal function.Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03330223, first registered January 4, 2018.
A Simulation–Optimization System to Assess Dam Construction with a Focus on Environmental Degradation at Downstream
Authors: Sedighkia Mahdi , Abdoli Asghar 
Published: February 2024

AbstractThe present study proposes and evaluates an integrated framework to assess dam construction and removal, encompassing the simulation of downstream river habitats and reservoir operation in three distinct statuses: conventional reservoir operation optimization, optimal release considering environmental aspects within the optimization model, and natural flow conditions. Fuzzy physical habitat simulation was employed to assess physical habitats, while an ANFIS-based model was utilized to simulate thermal tension and dissolved oxygen tension at downstream habitats. Particle swarm optimization was applied in the optimization models. To evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed framework, results from the optimization system as well as habitat suitability models in the natural flow and current condition were compared using various measurement indices, including the reliability index, vulnerability index, the Nash–Sutcliffe model efficiency coefficient (NSE), and root mean square error (RMSE). The case study results suggest that the reliability of water supply may be diminished under optimal release for environmental and demand considerations. Additionally, optimal release for the environment may not adequately protect downstream aquatic habitats. Therefore, in cases where the preservation of downstream habitats is a priority, dam removal may be a logical solution. Moreover, it is essential to acknowledge that the main limitation of the proposed method is its high computational complexity.
Toxicometabolomics-based cardiotoxicity evaluation of Thiazolidinedione exposure in human-derived cardiomyocytes
Authors: Al Sultan Abdullah , Rattray Zahra , Rattray Nicholas J. W. 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Introduction
Thiazolidinediones (TZDs), represented by pioglitazone and rosiglitazone, are a class of cost-effective oral antidiabetic agents posing a marginal hypoglycaemia risk. Nevertheless, observations of heart failure have hindered the clinical use of both therapies.

Objective
Since the mechanism of TZD-induced heart failure remains largely uncharacterised, this study aimed to explore the as-yet-unidentified mechanisms underpinning TZD cardiotoxicity using a toxicometabolomics approach.

Methods
The present investigation included an untargeted liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry-based toxicometabolomics pipeline, followed by multivariate statistics and pathway analyses to elucidate the mechanism(s)of TZD-induced cardiotoxicity using AC16 human cardiomyocytes as a model, and to identify the prognostic features associated with such effects.

Results
Acute administration of either TZD agent resulted in a significant modulation in carnitine content, reflecting potential disruption of the mitochondrial carnitine shuttle. Furthermore, perturbations were noted in purine metabolism and amino acid fingerprints, strongly conveying aberrations in cardiac energetics associated with TZD usage. Analysis of our findings also highlighted alterations in polyamine (spermine and spermidine) and amino acid (L-tyrosine and valine) metabolism, known modulators of cardiac hypertrophy, suggesting a potential link to TZD cardiotoxicity that necessitates further research. In addition, this comprehensive study identified two groupings – (i) valine and creatine, and (ii) L-tryptophan and L-methionine – that were significantly enriched in the above-mentioned mechanisms, emerging as potential fingerprint biomarkers for pioglitazone and rosiglitazone cardiotoxicity, respectively.

Conclusion
These findings demonstrate the utility of toxicometabolomics in elaborating on mechanisms of drug toxicity and identifying potential biomarkers, thus encouraging its application in the toxicological sciences. (245 words)
Bio-mordants: a review
Authors: Benli Hüseyin 
Published: February 2024

AbstractDue to the increasing pressure on environmentally friendly approaches and sustainable production processes, the textile dyeing industry has focused on natural colorants. Thus, the use of bio-mordants, which are biological materials, has become widespread as an alternative to metal salts, most of which are non-ecological, used in the application processes of natural colorants. In natural dyeing, dyers want to use mordant substances in the dyeing processes in order to both expand the color spectrum and improve the fastness properties. Conventional metal salts used in natural dyeing are made up of metallic ions, which, when released into the environment as wastewater effluent at the end of the dyeing process, cause major damage to the ecosystem. Many researchers have thought about using mordants derived from natural sources to address the environmental problem. This article is a review of the investigation of natural mordants used instead of metallic mordants in the process of coloring various textile materials with natural dyestuff sources. It has been determined that many substances, most of them herbal materials, are used as mordants. In this review, mordants, except for conventional metal salts, are examined under three main groups for a better understanding. These groups are as follows: (i) natural or bio-mordants, (ii) oil mordants, and (iii) new-generation and non-vegetable-based mordants. Here, researchers will find an overview of the most recent developments in green mordants as well as application techniques for a variety of mordants.
Substance-Related Acute Toxicity Deaths by Area-Based Characteristics: A Descriptive Analysis of a National Chart Review Study of Coroner and Medical Examiner Data
Authors: Baddeliyanage Richelle , Enns Aganeta , Vansteelandt Amanda , Abele Brandi , Kouyoumdjian Fiona , Schleihauf Emily , Pan Sai Yi , Steensma Colin , Rotondo Jenny 
Published: February 2024

AbstractOver the last decade, Canada has experienced a substantial increase in people dying from substance-related acute toxicity. Examining mortality rates by area-level characteristics can identify disproportionately affected populations and inform strategies to reduce substance-related acute toxicity deaths (ATDs). Using area-based methods, this study sought to examine substance-related acute toxicity mortality rates for varying community population sizes, levels of community remoteness, and indicators of deprivation in Canada from 2016 to 2017. Age-standardized mortality rates and rate ratios were calculated and disaggregated by sex. Mortality rates were highest in mid-sized urban communities with populations of 100,000 to 499,999 residents (15.9 per 100,000 population), followed by larger cities of 500,000 to 1,499,999 (15.1 per 100,000 population). The distribution of people who died also varied by community remoteness, with the highest mortality rates observed in accessible areas (14.9 per 100,000 population), followed by very remote areas (14.7 per 100,000 population). Neighbourhoods with the highest levels of deprivation, including high residential instability, economic dependency, and situational vulnerability, experienced 1.5 to 3.2 times more ATDs compared to neighbourhoods with the lowest levels of deprivation. Reported trends were similar among males and females, with higher mortality rates for males across all area-level characteristics. This study provides novel evidence on the context surrounding deaths to inform responses to reduce ATDs in Canada and serves as an important baseline that can be used to measure future progress.
The multilocality of sense of place in ecosystem services discourse
Authors: Ghorbanzadeh Sakineh , Nordberg Kenneth 
Published: February 2024

AbstractThis paper focuses on sense of place as a cultural ecosystem service and a mediatory experience in grasping a collection of ecosystem benefits. Through phenomenological and social constructionism/relational approaches, we focus on sense of place as a relational entity at both the individual and collective levels. Using content analysis of 32 in-depth interviews with (a) environmental officials and (b) local inhabitants in the region of Ostrobothnia, Finland, the study finds that sense of place is shaped via the interactions of environmental settings and cultural practices. Here, we argue that material and non-material interactions contribute to sense of place. With a phenomenological approach, the study presents the qualities associated with places, such as tranquility, beauty, and uniqueness that are important for achieving both material and non-material ecosystem benefits, while social constructionism/relational approaches indicate that the social dimension of sense of place contributes to ecosystem service benefits through traditional cultural practices. The study also shows a shift in cultural practices from provisioning to recreation in creating meaningful places. The results highlight a multilocal dimension of senses of places, particularly in contemporary lifestyles and increased mobilities.
Separation of Li and Co From LiCoO2 Cathode Material Through Aluminothermic Reduction: Investigation of the Thermite Reaction
Authors: Nababan D. C. , Mukhlis R. , Durandet Y. , Prentice L. H. , Rhamdhani M. A. 
Published: February 2024

AbstractAluminum can be used as a reductant for metal oxide reduction processes. This study investigates the reaction between Al with LiCoO2 in the context of recycling and separation of Li and Co from end-of-life battery cathode material. Specifically, this work attempts to investigate the initiation of the ignition of the thermite reaction. Both thermodynamic assessments and experimental work were carried out on the LiCoO2-Al system in the range of 750 °C to 1020 °C with three different amounts of Al additions in the sample, i.e., 11 wt pct, 20 wt pct, and 28 wt pct. It was found that the amount of Al (composition of the sample), the sample weight, and the initial heating temperature affect the occurrence of spontaneous ignition of the thermite reaction in the system leading to the partial/full melting of the sample. A function of Biot number and temperature was utilized to construct maps showing the onset of ignition where it was found that samples with large Biot numbers tend to ignite. In addition, higher Al addition, sample mass, and temperature were likely to generate ignition. The ignition was found to govern the type of end products of Li and Co; for example, the Li was distributed to gas as Li(g) and slag as LiAlO2 while Co could be extracted as Co metal or Co-Al alloy. The 11 wt pct and 20 wt pct Al addition to the samples resulted in a pure metallic cobalt product, whereas 28 wt pct Al addition resulted in CoAl alloy with a composition of 86.1 wt pct Co and 13.9 wt pct Al. The final product of the vaporized Li was in the form of Li(OH) due to the exposure to water vapor in the atmosphere upon collection. This aluminothermic approach is considered as a promising method to recover Li and Co from waste LiCoO2.
Convincing 10-Year Follow-up Results of the Banded Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass
Authors: Jense Marijn T. F. , Meuwissen Nina , Galal Abdelrahman M. , De Witte Evelien , Fransen Sofie , Broos Pieter P. H. L. , Greve Jan Willem M. , Boerma Evert-Jan G. 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Introduction
Several studies have shown the positive effect on weight loss of the banded Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (BRYGB). Thus far, studies describing the 10-year post-operative results are scarce. Therefore, the aim of this study was to describe the weight loss results, effect on associated medical problems, and complication rates during 10 years of follow-up after BRYGB.

Method
Data were collected from patients who underwent laparoscopic BRYGB with a non-adjustable silicone gastric ring between January 2011 and March 2013. All patients were included when found to be eligible according to the IFSO criteria.

Results
One hundred forty-nine patients were included, 110 received a primary BRYGB and 39 received a conversional BRYGB. The primary BRYGB group consisted of 68% female patients with a mean BMI of 44.5 kg/m2 and a mean age of 46 years old. The conversional group consisted of 77% females and had a mean BMI of 34.8 kg/m2 and a mean age of 48 years. At 10-year follow-up, 67.1% of the data was available. Ten-year post-operative 30% total weight loss was seen in the primary group, and 7% in the conversional group. In 10 years, 23% of the patients had complications of which half were ring-related.

Conclusion
The addition of a silicon ring to the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass may result in substantial and stable weight loss maintenance 10 years post-operative. Furthermore, the number of patients with long-term complications was low and the number of associated medical problems was significantly reduced.

Graphical Abstract