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Towards all inorganic antimony sulphide semitransparent solar cells

Exploring early Acheulian technological decision-making: A controlled experimental approach to raw material selection for percussive artifacts in Melka Wakena, Ethiopia

The evolution of human behaviour is marked by key decision-making processes reflected in technological variability in the early archaeological record. As part of the technological system, differences in raw material quality directly affect the way that humans produce, design and use stone tools. The selection, procurement and use of various raw materials requires decision-making to evaluate multiple factors such as suitability to produce and design tools, but also the materials’ efficiency and durability in performing a given task. Therefore, characterizing the physical properties of various lithic raw materials is crucial for exploring changes in human interactions with their natural environment through time and space and for understanding their technological behaviour. In this paper, we present the first step in an ongoing program designed to understand the decision-making criteria involved in the use of raw materials by the early Acheulian tool-makers at the Melka Wakena (MW) site-complex, located on the Ethiopian highlands. We present the results of the first experimental step, in which we identified and measured the engineering properties of raw materials in the lithic assemblages. These data serve as an objective, quantifiable baseline for natural experiments as well as archaeological inquiries into the technological decision-making processes of early Pleistocene hominins in Africa.

Unveiling the molecular mechanisms of recurrent miscarriage through endoplasmic reticulum stress related gene expression

Determination of production capacity for open-pit coal mines under uncertainty: A model based on economies of scale

The determination of optimal production capacity for open-pit mines is influenced by various economic and technical factors and is highly susceptible to uncertainties. To effectively address the impact of uncertainty on capacity planning, this study develops a production capacity planning model for open-pit coal mines, based on the theory of economies of scale and incorporating multiple uncertainty constraints. A novel method is proposed to quantify and propagate the uncertainties of key capacity control factors, alongside a comprehensive uncertainty analysis framework for total revenue. Using a large-scale open-pit mine as a case study, the relationships and calculation tables for the uncertainties of key control factors are provided. Based on this, a mathematical expression for total revenue under the influence of multiple uncertainties is formulated, and the optimal capacity range is calculated. The application of the model is demonstrated through this case study, revealing that the uncertainties in production costs and coal prices are (-13.05%, +27.68%) and (-10.79%, +10.79%) respectively. Subsequently, risk-tolerant capacity planning recommendations are proposed, effectively mitigating the impact of uncertainties on production capacity determination.

Escherichia coli growing under antimicrobial gallium nitrate stress reveals new processes of tolerance and toxicity

Topographic changes in macula and its association with visual outcomes in idiopathic epiretinal membrane surgery

Purpose We investigated changes in macular topography and their association with visual acuity and metamorphopsia in the idiopathic epiretinal membrane (iERM). Methods Twenty-four eyes that underwent vitrectomy and ERM removal with internal limiting membrane peeling were included in this study. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and horizontal/vertical metamorphopsia scores (h and vM-scores in the M-chart) were assessed. The distances of fovea-disc (FD) and fovea-vascular arcade (FV), central subfield macular thickness (CSMT), and foveal location were measured using fundus photography, optical coherence tomography (OCT), and OCT angiography, respectively. Results The BCVA (logMAR) and vM-scores (P < 0.001, P = 0.014, respectively) improved after surgery. The distance of the FD decreased (P < 0.001) and FVs increased (P < 0.001, both). The fovea moved horizontally toward the disc (P < 0.001). The change in median total FVs (7.114 mm to 7.369 mm, P = 0.001) correlated with the change in BCVA (P = 0.049, Pearson’s [r] = -0.404). No topographic parameters were associated with an improvement in the vM score. Conclusions The macular topography significantly changed after iERM removal; the fovea moved nasally, and the distance between the superior and inferior vascular arcades increased. Such a change was relevant to the improvement in BCVA, but not metamorphopsia.

Engineering performance and environmental assessment of sustainable concrete incorporating nano silica and metakaolin as cementitious materials

AbstractThe carbon footprint associated with cement production, coupled with depletion of natural resources and climate change, underscores the need for sustainable alternatives. This study explores the effect of metakaolin (MK) and nano-silica (NS) on concrete’s engineering performance and environmental impact. Initially, compressive, tensile, and flexural strength tests, along with durability assessments like water absorption, sorptivity, rapid chloride permeability, and resistance to acid and sulphate attacks, were conducted. Later, X-ray Diffraction spectroscopy and Field-emission scanning electron microscopy were employed for microstructural analysis. Subsequently, the environmental impact of micro and nano materials was assessed using embodied carbon emissions and eco-strength efficiency. The results revealed that the hybrid mixes of 12.50% MK and 2% NS (M7) showed superior performance, demonstrating significant strength enhancements and eco-efficiency, achieving 0.15 MPa/kg CO2/m3 at 28th day. Meanwhile, the MK-only mix (M6) yielded the lowest embodied CO2 emissions at 330 kg CO2/m3. MK and NS effectively reduce porosity and enhance durability against environmental factors while lowering clinker content, contributing to sustainability. Furthermore, the microstructural behaviour showed early hydration, dense microstructure and additional Calcium Silicate Hydrate formation, leading to improved properties. The outcomes reveal that the concrete configuration has altered at micro and nano levels by the inclusion of MK and NS, demonstrating their substantial contribution to producing environmentally friendly, effective, and beneficial concrete.

Intraoperative transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation combined with anesthesia to prevent postoperative cognitive dysfunction: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background Postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) is associated with an increased risk of dementia and may lead to chronic neurodegeneration. The utilization of intraoperative Transcutaneous Electrical Acupoint Stimulation (TEAS) in conjunction with anesthesia is expected to become an effective preventive measure for POCD in clinical practice. Methods We conducted a comprehensive literature review focusing on the use of TEAS in the prevention of POCD during surgical anesthesia. We searched various databases for relevant literature, including PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), and Wanfang Data. The synthesis of data was performed using RevMan version 5.4. Results Our meta-analysis incorporated data from 20 Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) involving 1549 patients. The findings revealed that intraoperative TEAS significantly reduced the incidence of POCD when compared to the control group [Odds Ratio (OR) 0.29, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) 0.22–0.39, p < 0.00001]. Moreover, patients receiving intraoperative TEAS exhibited a significant increase in MMSE scores (MD 1.21, 95% CI 0.53–1.89, p = 0.0005). Additionally, intraoperative TEAS demonstrated efficacy in reducing the contents of perioperative serum S100β protein (S100β), neuron-specific enolase (NSE), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in patients, and the improvement of these indexes may be the potential mechanism of TEAS in preventing POCD. Conclusion Our results suggest that intraoperative TEAS combined with anesthesia prevents cognitive dysfunction in the immediate postoperative period, however we need additional evidence of its utility in preventing long-term cognitive dysfunction. We advocate for the broader promotion and application of this approach in clinical surgical settings. Trial registration PROSPERO (CRD42023457910).

Changes of the ecological environment status in villages under the background of traditional village preservation: a case study in Enshi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture

AbstractThe preservation of Chinese traditional villages plays a crucial role in promoting the sustainable development of rural natural, cultural, and ecological environments. It is also a key strategy for achieving rural revitalization. Current research on traditional villages predominantly focuses on the realm of cultural landscapes, with an emphasis on preserving the cultural ecological value of these communities. In comparison, discussions on the quality of the ecological environment of villages from the perspectives of natural environment, economic environment, and the social organizational environment within regional development are relatively scarce. Our study employed GIS and RS technology and refers to the Technical Criterion for Ecosystem Status Evaluation. Several sub-indices of the ecological environment status, including the biological richness index, vegetation coverage index, water network density index, and land stress index, were selected to construct an ecological environment assessment model. This model was used to analyze the spatial–temporal changes in the ecological environment status of each county, county-level city, and traditional village within the jurisdiction of Enshi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture and its surrounding areas from 2010 to 2020. The study quantitatively evaluated the ecological environment status of each county, county-level city, and village in Enshi before and after the implementation of traditional village preservation policies. Through comparative analysis, the study revealed the impact of these policies on the natural ecological environment of the study area. The results indicated the following: (1) From 2010 to 2020, the ecological index (EI) values in the villages of Enshi Prefecture exhibited a similar trend to the EI values in the respective counties and county-level cities they are located in, although significant differences in magnitude of change were observed. (2) The EI values in the counties, county-level cities, and villages demonstrated greater variation in the latter five years of the decade (2015–2020) compared to the previous five years (2010–2015). (3) In 2020, the EI value of the villages experienced more significant changes compared to 2010, whereas the overall EI value of the counties and county-level cities showed less pronounced changes. The findings of this study suggest that the traditional village preservation policies implemented in Enshi Prefecture have both positive and negative impacts on the ecological environment of the surrounding areas of protected villages, and these impacts become increasingly evident over time. By comparing and analyzing the ecological changes in the surrounding areas of traditional villages in Enshi Prefecture with the overall ecological changes in the respective counties and county-level cities, our study employs quantitative analytical methods to delve into the impact of traditional village conservation policies on the natural ecological environment. It assesses the effects of policy implementation on the natural ecological environment of traditional villages, analyzing both the positive and negative impacts brought about by the execution of these policies, with the aim of effectively guiding the natural ecological conditions of traditional villages towards a more healthy trajectory of development.

A novel framework for increasing research transparency: Exploring the connection between diversity and innovation

A split sample/dual method research protocol is demonstrated to increase transparency while reducing the probability of false discovery. We apply the protocol to examine whether diversity in ownership teams increases or decreases the likelihood of a firm reporting a novel innovation using data from the 2018 United States Census Bureau’s Annual Business Survey. Transparency is increased in three ways: 1) all specification testing and identifying potentially productive models is done in an exploratory subsample that 2) preserves the validity of hypothesis test statistics from de novo estimation in the holdout confirmatory sample with 3) all findings publicly documented in an earlier registered report and in this journal publication. Bayesian estimation procedures that leverage information from the exploratory stage included in the confirmatory stage estimation replace traditional frequentist null hypothesis significance testing. In addition to increasing statistical power by using information from the full sample, Bayesian methods directly estimate a probability distribution for the magnitude of an effect, allowing much richer inference. Estimated magnitudes of diversity along academic discipline, race, ethnicity, and foreign-born status dimensions are positively associated with innovation. A maximally diverse ownership team on these dimensions would be roughly six times more likely to report new-to-market innovation than a homophilic team.

Determinants of physical activity among female students based on the transtheoretical model

Increased consumption of ultra-processed foods and worse diet quality in colorectal cancer patients after colostomy: A prospective study

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is commonly treated with intestinal resections that lead to colostomy, which can influence changes in eating habits. This study aimed to analyze energy and nutrient intake, diet quality, and food consumption based on the processing level in CRC patients after colostomy. A prospective study was carried out at three time points (T0–recent colostomy, T1–3 months after colostomy, and T2-6 months after colostomy). Food intake was assessed by 24-hour dietary recall. Macro-micronutrient consumption, the Brazilian Healthy Eating Index-Revised (BHEI-R), and food consumption according to processing level by NOVA classification (raw or minimally processed, processed, and ultra-processed foods) were estimated. Generalized estimating equations were used to compare the food intake variables with time points. Of the 46 patients, 52.2% were women, and the mean age was 60.6±12.2 years old. There was a change in food consumption over time, with an increase in energy consumption (kcal and kcal/kg), lipids, and sodium, in addition to a reduction in some nutrients such as protein (g and g/kg), fiber, vitamin B1 and C and phosphorus. Regarding the key outcomes, BHEI-R and NOVA classification showed a poor diet quality with a reduction in total index (p = 0.022), raw food (p = 0.001), total fruits, and whole fruit consumption (p = 0.001), and an increase in sodium (p = 0.001) at 3 and/or 6 months after colostomy concomitant an increase in ultra-processed food (p = 0.015). Nutritional counseling is essential in care, effective eating changes habits improvement of symptoms and nutritional status, besides avoiding potential cancer recurrence.

Prediction of the toughness of date palm fruit

AbstractThis study aimed to predict the toughness of date palm fruit (Barhi, Saqie, and Khodry varieties) at different ripening stages (Khalal, Rutab, and Tamar) using Hertz Theory by evaluating the physical and mechanical characteristics of the fruits. Physical measurements revealed that high moisture content in the Khalal stage led to larger dimensions and mass across all varieties, with Barhi dates showing a moisture content of 63.31%, which decreased to 32.60% at Rutab as the fruit dehydrated. This moisture reduction also impacted other characteristics, such as bulk density, volume, and flesh thickness, resulting in a concentrated, denser structure in the Tamar stage. Mechanical analysis demonstrated significant softening in all varieties as they transitioned from Khalal to Rutab stages, with Barhi dates’ modulus of elasticity dropping from 548.83 to 16.72 kPa. Similarly, bioyield and rupture stress decreased, highlighting the influence of moisture loss on textural characteristics. Saqie and Khodry varieties followed similar trends, with initial softening from Khalal to Rutab, and a slight firmness increase at Tamar due to dehydration. The force-deformation curves and toughness measurements confirmed these findings, showing significant reductions in toughness from Khalal to Rutab, with a slight increase in Tamar. These results underscore the pronounced textural and structural changes as dates ripen, influencing their suitability for different applications. Also, the measured toughness (τm) closely aligned with predicted toughness (τp), with significant textural differences observed across varieties and ripening stages. For all varieties, the τp is approximately 0.00–9.24% lower than the τm. Finally, the derived equation can be used with enough confidence to theoretically predict the toughness of date palm fruit.

The gut microbiota-SCFA-inflammation axis in patients with AECOPD

Objectives The aim of the study was to explore the alteration of microbiota and SCFA in gut and inflammation in acute exacerbation chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) patients, and to test the hypothesis that a disorder of gut microbiota will lead to the alteration of SCFA, which will aggravate inflammation in AECOPD patients. Methods and results 24 patients with AECOPD and 18 healthy volunteers were included in the study. Gut microbiota were analyzed by 16S rDNA and serum was used to detect levels of inflammatory factors by ELISA. Fatty acid concentrations were determined in lumen via gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The richness and diversity of gut microbiota were decreased in AECOPD patients. β-diversity analysis revealed differences between AECOPD patients and healthy controls. p_Bacteroidetes, g_Paraprevotella, g_Ruminococcus2, g_Parasutterella, o_Rhodospirillales, and g_Romboutsia in the healthy controls and p_Firmicutes, o_Actinomycetales, f_Actinomycetadeae, g_Actinomyces, g_Mogibacterium, f_Veillonellaceae, f_Enterococcaceae, and g_Enterococcus in AECOPD patients were the most abundant microbiota. SCFA levels were decreased in patients with AECOPD. In addition, the results demonstrated that except for a reduction in IL-6, there was no change in inflammatory markers in AECOPD patients. Conclusion In AECOPD patients, the gut microbiota-SCFA-inflammation axis is augmented, with decreased diversity and abundance of gut microbiota, leading to a reduction in SCFA and an imbalance of inflammation.

Tyrosine phosphatase SHP2 accelerated ovarian cancer via modulating integrin/ E-Cadherin/ ZEB1 induced EMT

Effect of individual variations in genes related to dopamine brain transmission on performance with and without rewards during motor sequence and probabilistic learning tasks in children and young adults with and without cerebral palsy

Children with cerebral palsy (CP) often participate in training to improve mobility, hand function and other motor abilities. However, responses to these interventions vary considerably across individuals even those with similar brain injuries, ages and functional levels. Dopamine is a neurotrasmitter known to affect motor skill acquistion in animals and humans and may be influenced by individual variations in genes related to brain transmission of dopamine. To evaluate potential genetic influences on learning in young people with and without CP, we calculated individual dopamine-related gene scores and compared these to the ability to learn two different tasks, an implicit sequence learning task and a probablistic classification task. Each task was also administered in an unrewarded condition and a rewarded one known to increase circulating levels of dopamine. The main finding was an interaction between gene score and condition for the sequence task such that those with low gene scores were poorer learners without rewards but responded positively to rewards whereas the converse was true for those with high gene scores. This is the first prospective study in CP suggesting that genetic variability may influence neurorehabilitation outcomes and could potentially be modulated using rewards or medications for those with poorer learning at baseline, thus promoting more personalized approaches to enhancing motor training in CP and other neurological conditions.

Trends in global and regional incidence and prevalence of hypertensive disordersin pregnancy (1990–2021): an age-period-cohort analysis

Establishment of a physical exercise evaluation index system for school-age children with asthma

Objective To construct a comprehensive physical exercise evaluation index system for asthmatic children aged 6–12 years. Design Based on knowledge-attitude-practice(KAP) theory, we constructed an item pool for a physical exercise evaluation index system using a literature review and semistructured interviews and refined the index system through two questionnaire cycles with Delphi experts. Results For the two questionnaire rounds, the recovery rate was 100%, the experts’ authority coefficients were 0.850 and 0.836, and the coordinated coefficients were 0.167 and 0.202 (P<0.001). Finally, four first-level indicators, namely, disease factors, exercise environment, exercise practice, and exercise psychology; 11 second-level indicators; and 50 third-level indicators were developed as a physical exercise evaluation index system for asthmatic children. Conclusion A physical exercise evaluation index system built using a literature review, qualitative interviews, and Delphi technique can provide scientific guidance for children with asthma, caregivers and health professionals to comprehensively assess the children’s physical exercise.

Derivation and validation of a prediction model for inadequate bowel preparation in Chinese outpatients

Validation of polymorphic Gompertzian model of cancer through in vitro and in vivo data

Mathematical modeling plays an important role in our understanding and targeting therapy resistance mechanisms in cancer. The polymorphic Gompertzian model, analyzed theoretically and numerically by Viossat and Noble to demonstrate the benefits of adaptive therapy in metastatic cancer, describes a heterogeneous cancer population consisting of therapy-sensitive and therapy-resistant cells. In this study, we demonstrate that the polymorphic Gompertzian model successfully captures trends in both in vitro and in vivo data on non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) dynamics under treatment. Additionally, for the in vivo data of tumor dynamics in patients undergoing treatment, we compare the goodness of fit of the polymorphic Gompertzian model to that of the classical oncologic models, which were previously identified as the models that fit this data best. We show that the polymorphic Gompertzian model can successfully capture the U-shape trend in tumor size during cancer relapse, which can not be fitted with the classical oncologic models. In general, the polymorphic Gompertzian model corresponds well to both in vitro and in vivo real-world data, suggesting it as a candidate for improving the efficacy of cancer therapy, for example, through evolutionary/adaptive therapies.