bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Green banks versus non‐green banks: A financial stability comparative analysis in terms of CAMEL ratios
Authors: Malandrakis Ioannis , Drakos Konstantinos
Published: August 2024

This study examines green and non‐green‐banks from a financial stability point of view and specifically whether there are any discernible performance differences between the two groups. Using the supervisory ratios namely CAMEL variables, and employing panel data techniques (random effects model) and a global panel data set of 165 banks from 38 countries for the period 1999 to 2021, we adopt the Differences‐In‐Differences approach to examine whether green (“treatment” group) and non‐green (“control” group) banks exhibit differential behaviour, using the outbreak of the financial crisis (2008) as the time of intervention. Our results mainly show that green banks differ (and specifically perform better than their non‐green counterparts) only in terms of Total Capital, Tier 1 Capital, and NPLs/Reserve for Loan Losses ratios during and after the financial crisis. As for the rest of the CAMEL factors, it seems that both groups exhibit the same behaviour, especially in the post‐crisis period. Thus, green banks are not stronger in total than their non‐green counterparts in terms of financial stability. We also find that the financial crisis had either a positive or a negative effect on most of the CAMEL factors of both bank types, except for the Leverage Ratio (a capital adequacy proxy) and Operational Expenses/Operational Income ratios (a management quality proxy), which proved crisis‐insensitive.
The effect of olive pomace biochar on some characteristics of Vertisols
Authors: İlay Remzi , Bodur Seda Özer , Eren S. Tuğçe , Kavdır Yasemin , Ekinci Hüseyin
Published: August 2024

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of olive pomace biochar (OB) application on the mechanical, physical and chemical properties of Vertisols. For this study, soil samples classified as Vertisol in Çanakkale, where internal drainage and surface ponding are major problems, were used. The OB was produced at 450°C and then mixed with 0% (control), 3%, 6% and 9% of the soil by weight. Various soil parameters, including the Atterberg limits (liquid limit [LL], plastic limit [PL], plasticity index [PI], shrinkage limit [SL]), saturated hydraulic conductivity (Ksat), field capacity (FC), total carbon (TC) and total nitrogen (TN), were determined. The values of all the soil parameters increased, except for the PI. Moreover, the Ksat value increased by 127% and 136% with 6% and 9% OB application, respectively, compared to that of the control. Additionally, the FC, TN and TC levels in the soils increased in response to biochar application. In conclusion, OB application has a positive effect on the specific properties of Vertisol and can improve its physical properties.
Trend analysis of water quality in the irrigation districts of southern Alberta, Canada
Authors: Villeneuve Janelle , Kohn Jacqueline , Seitz Vermeer Nicole , Kobryn Madison
Published: August 2024

Irrigation is essential for high agricultural production and crop diversity in semi‐arid regions such as southern Alberta, Canada. Nearly 75% of Canada's irrigation takes place in Alberta's irrigation districts, making the management and maintenance of irrigation water quality highly important in this region. In this study, temporal water quality trend analysis was conducted on southern Alberta irrigation water from 2006 to 2023. The trends of 19 water quality parameters, including nutrients, salinity, physical characteristics, Escherichia coli, and pesticides, were evaluated at 74 sites. Of the total number of parameter‐by‐site tests (902) conducted, 36.5% had statistically significant decreasing trends, 1.3% had statistically significant increasing trends, and 62.2% had no trend. This indicates stability and improvement in water quality during the study period at the resolution of individual sites. Regional trend analysis revealed trends in 11 out of the 19 parameters tested: 9 decreased, 2 increased, and 8 exhibited no trend, which also indicated stable and improving water quality. Continued monitoring is important for areas and parameters showing increasing trends to guide mitigation action. This information can be used to focus water and land management decisions and direct resources to priority areas and parameters to ensure excellent quality irrigation water for all users.
Irisin alleviates the pyroptosis of β cells in T2DM by inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome through regulating miR‐19b‐3p/SOCS3/STAT3 axis mediated autophagy
Authors: Yang Jingjing , Tan Anjun , Li Tianrong , Chen Hewen
Published: August 2024

The purpose of this study was to analyze the mechanism by which irisin affects β‐cell pyroptosis in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The in vivo T2DM model was established by raised with high‐fat diet and intraperitoneally injection of streptozocin. Min6 cells were divided into four groups: negative control (NC), high glucose (HG), HG + irisin, and HG + irisin+3‐MA. The cell viability was determined by CCK‐8 assay. Dual‐luciferase gene reporter assay was conducted to confirm the binding between miR‐19b‐3p and SOCS3. The expression level of FNDC5 and GSDMD was visualized using the immunofluorescence assay. The protein level of FNDC5, Beclin1, LC3II/I, NLRP3, cleaved‐caspase‐1, GSDMD‐N, STAT3, p‐STAT3, and SOCS3 was determined by Western blotting. The secretion of irisin, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and insulin was checked by ELISA. In vivo results showed that pathological changes in islet tissues with declined number of β cells, elevated FBG value, decreased FIN and HOMA‐β value, elevated autophagy‐associated proteins expressions, and activated NLRP3 signaling in T2DM mice, which were dramatically reversed by FNDC5 overexpression. Furthermore, the declined level of miR‐19b‐3p and p‐STAT3, as well as the upregulation of SOCS3, was greatly rescued by FNDC5 overexpression. The in vitro data confirmed the binding site between SOCS3 and miR‐19b‐3p. SOCS3 was downregulated and p‐STAT3 was upregulated in miR‐19b‐3p mimic‐treated Min6 cells. In HG‐stimulated Min6 cells, the elevated cell viability, increased production of insulin, decreased release of LDH, and inactivated NLRP3 signaling induced by irisin were abolished by miR‐19b‐3p inhibitor and STAT3 inhibitor. The increased level of autophagy‐related proteins and activated SOCS3/STAT3 axis induced by irisin in HG‐stimulated Min6 cells were abolished by miR‐19b‐3p inhibitor. The inhibitory effect of irisin against NLRP3 signaling in HG‐stimulated Min6 cells was abrogated by 3‐MA. In conclusion, irisin alleviated the pyroptosis of β cells in T2DM by inhibiting NLRP3 signaling through miR‐19b‐3p/SOCS3/STAT3 axis mediated autophagy.
An accurate paradigm for denoising degraded ultrasound images based on artificial intelligence systems
Authors: Al‐Tahhan F. E. , Fares M. E.
Published: August 2024

Ultrasound images are susceptible to various forms of quality degradation that negatively impact diagnosis. Common degradations include speckle noise, Gaussian noise, salt and pepper noise, and blurring. This research proposes an accurate ultrasound image denoising strategy based on firstly detecting the noise type, then, suitable denoising methods can be applied for each corruption. The technique depends on convolutional neural networks to categorize the type of noise affecting an input ultrasound image. Pre‐trained convolutional neural network models including GoogleNet, VGG‐19, AlexNet and AlexNet‐support vector machine (SVM) are developed and trained to perform this classification. A dataset of 782 numerically generated ultrasound images across different diseases and noise types is utilized for model training and evaluation. Results show AlexNet‐SVM achieves the highest accuracy of 99.2% in classifying noise types. The results indicate that, the present technique is considered one of the top‐performing models is then applied to real ultrasound images with different noise corruptions to demonstrate efficacy of the proposed detect‐then‐denoise system.

Research Highlights

Proposes an accurate ultrasound image denoising strategy based on detecting noise type first.

Uses pre‐trained convolutional neural networks to categorize noise type in input images.

Evaluates GoogleNet, VGG‐19, AlexNet, and AlexNet‐support vector machine (SVM) models on a dataset of 782 synthetic ultrasound images.

AlexNet‐SVM achieves highest accuracy of 99.2% in classifying noise types.

Demonstrates efficacy of the proposed detect‐then‐denoise system on real ultrasound images.
High Spatial‐Resolution and Acquisition‐Efficiency Cardiac MR T1 Mapping Based on Radial bSSFP and a Low‐Rank Tensor Constraint
Authors: Gao Juan , Gong Yiwen , Emu Yixin , Chen Zhuo , Chen Haiyang , Yang Fan , Ding Zekang , Hua Sha , Jin Wei , Hu Chenxi
Published: August 2024

Background

Cardiac T1 mapping is valuable for evaluating myocardial fibrosis, yet its resolution and acquisition efficiency are limited, potentially obscuring visualization of small pathologies.

Purpose

To develop a technique for high‐resolution cardiac T1 mapping with a less‐than‐100‐millisecond acquisition window based on radial MOdified Look‐Locker Inversion recovery (MOLLI) and a calibrationless space‐contrast‐coil locally low‐rank tensor (SCC‐LLRT) constrained reconstruction.

Study Type

Prospective.

Subjects/Phantom

Sixteen healthy subjects (age 25 ± 3 years, 44% females) and 12 patients with suspected cardiomyopathy (age 57 ± 15 years, 42% females), NiCl2‐agar phantom.

Field Strength/Sequence

3‐T, standard MOLLI, radial MOLLI, inversion‐recovery spin‐echo, late gadolinium enhancement.

Assessment

SCC‐LLRT was compared to a conventional locally low‐rank (LLR) method through simulations using Normalized Root‐Mean‐Square Error (NRMSE) and Structural Similarity Index Measure (SSIM). Radial MOLLI was compared to standard MOLLI across phantom, healthy subjects, and patients. Three independent readers subjectively evaluated the quality of T1 maps using a 5‐point scale (5 = best).

Statistical Tests

Paired t‐test, Wilcoxon signed‐rank test, intraclass correlation coefficient analysis, linear regression, Bland–Altman analysis. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

In simulations, SCC‐LLRT demonstrated a significant improvement in NRMSE and SSIM compared to LLR. In phantom, both radial MOLLI and standard MOLLI provided consistent T1 estimates across different heart rates. In healthy subjects, radial MOLLI exhibited a significantly lower mean T1 (1115 ± 39 msec vs. 1155 ± 36 msec), similar T1 SD (74 ± 14 msec vs. 67 ± 23 msec, P = 0.20), and similar T1 reproducibility (28 ± 18 msec vs. 22 ± 15 msec, P = 0.34) compared to standard MOLLI. In patients, the proposed method significantly improved the sharpness of myocardial boundaries (4.50 ± 0.65 vs. 3.25 ± 0.43), the conspicuity of papillary muscles and fine structures (4.33 ± 0.74 vs. 3.33 ± 0.47), and artifacts (4.75 ± 0.43 vs. 3.83 ± 0.55). The reconstruction time for a single slice was 5.2 hours.

Data Conclusion

The proposed method enables high‐resolution cardiac T1 mapping with a short acquisition window and improved image quality.

Evidence Level

1

Technical Efficacy

Stage 1
Ferumoxytol‐Enhanced 5D Multiphase Steady‐State Imaging Using Rotating Cartesian K‐Space With Low‐Rank Reconstruction for Pediatric Congenital Heart Disease
Authors: Zhao Zixuan , Lee Hsu‐Lei , Ruan Dan , Ming Zhengyang , Han Fei , Bedayat Arash , Christodoulou Anthony G. , Finn J. Paul , Nguyen Kim‐Lien
Published: August 2024

Background

The rotating Cartesian k‐space multiphase steady‐state imaging with contrast (ROCK‐MUSIC) pulse sequence enables acquisition of whole‐heart, cardiac phase‐resolved images in pediatric congenital heart disease (CHD) without reliance on the ventilator gating signal. Multidimensional reconstruction with low rank tensor (LRT) has shown promise for resolving complex cardiorespiratory motion.

Purpose

To enhance ROCK‐MUSIC by resolving cardiorespiratory phases using LRT reconstruction and to enable semi‐automatic hyperparameter tuning by developing an image quality scoring model.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

Thirty patients (45% female, age 2 days to 6.7 years) with CHD.

Field Strength/Sequence

3‐T, four‐dimensional (4D) spoiled gradient recalled echo sequence.

Assessment

Eigenvector‐based iTerative Self‐consistent Parallel Imaging Reconstruction (ESPIRiT) served as the reference comparison for LRT reconstruction. A 4‐point Likert scale was used for cardiac and vascular image quality scoring based on cardiac chamber definition, lumen signal uniformity, vascular margin clarity, and motion artifact. Ejection fraction and ventricular volumes were assessed in 16 patients. Signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR), contrast‐to‐noise ratio (CNR), and edge sharpness were computed.

Statistical Tests

Intraclass correlation coefficients, Wilcoxon signed‐rank test, Bland–Altman. A P‐value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

Relative to ESPIRiT, LRT images received significantly higher cardiac (2.81 ± 0.57 vs. 3.19 ± 0.54) and vascular (2.81 ± 0.60 vs. 3.36 ± 0.53) image quality scores. Image quality scoring with semi‐automated hyperparameter tuning showed strong correlations (R2 = 0.748) among image quality, SNR, and septal sharpness. Comparison of ejection fraction and volumetry derived from ESPIRiT, and LRT showed no significant systematic difference (P = 0.32).

Data Conclusion

Integration of low‐rank reconstruction with ROCK‐MUSIC acquisition may be feasible, and semi‐automatic hyperparameter tuning could be effective for generating cardiorespiratory resolved images.

Level of Evidence

2

Technical Efficacy

Stage 1
Validation of a triple‐color pseudovirion‐based neutralization assay for immunogenicity assessment of a 14‐valent recombinant human papillomavirus vaccine
Authors: Gao Shuman , Zhao Dandan , Feng Caixia , Kou Yajuan , Lu Jianbo , Luo Chunxia , Li Xuefeng , Wang Yang , Xie Liangzhi
Published: August 2024

Validation of bioanalytical methods is crucial, especially in the pharmaceutical industry, to determine their suitability for specific purposes and the accuracy of analytical results. The pseudovirion‐based neutralization assay (PBNA) is considered the gold standard for detecting and quantifying neutralizing antibodies against human papillomavirus in vaccine development for disease prevention. This paper introduces an improved triple‐color PBNA method, capable of simultaneous detection of two or three human papillomavirus (HPV types for use in the development of a 14‐valent HPV vaccine candidate. The primary objective was to comprehensively validate the triple‐color PBNA method for general vaccine immunogenicity assays. Results show that the method has good specificity, accuracy, precision, linearity, robustness, and applicability. This innovative triple‐color PBNA offers an improved approach for large‐scale immunogenicity assessment in vaccine development. This study lays a solid foundation that can serve as a guiding paradigm for assessing vaccine responses in preclinical and clinical phases, providing valuable insights to the field.
High‐precision peaks‐grabbing modified π‐type model in multi‐laps on‐chip spiral inductors using R–L ladder network
Authors: Chen Haidong , He Lei , Huang He , Xue Quan , Che Wenquan
Published: August 2024

Parasitic effects significantly interfere with systematic model‐parameter extraction, making linear fitting of spiral inductors challenging when the number of turns exceeds 6, as seen in existing works. Based on the single‐π model, we propose a parameter‐extraction technique using an additional three ladder R–L ladder network in series to more accurately predict skin and proximity effects. Compared to the latest enhanced π‐circuit model, our proposed model with parameter‐extraction technique in multi‐laps inductors accurately predicts the characteristics of series inductance (Leff) and quality factor (Q) across the self‐resonant frequency, especially at the peak. This model could be used directly for the model of the on‐chip inductor in both academic and industrial fields.
A simple sinusoidal curve‐based one‐dimensional periodic leaky‐wave antenna for high‐gain continuous beam scanning
Authors: Pandey Vishakha , Ahmad Ayaz , Mukherjee Jayanta
Published: August 2024

A novel technique is presented based on a sinusoidal curve‐shaped one‐dimensional periodic leaky‐wave antenna to eliminate open stopband (OSB) and enhance gain. The radiating stub is inspired by a sinusoidal curve showing zero phase constant at a single broadside frequency (9 GHz) and ripple‐free attenuation constant. The technique is first used on a unit cell with half‐cycle sinusoidal‐curved radiating stub to achieve uniform gain and OSB suppression. Subsequently, to further improve the gain, a unit cell with a full‐cycle sinusoidal‐curved radiating stub with an offset introduced at the centerline is applied. Finally, the full‐cycle sinusoidal stub is modified by introducing a pair of inclined “branching” half‐cycle sinusoidal stubs at an angle θ° from the centerline to further enhance the gain. A 4.65 dB gain improvement is observed along with complete OSB elimination for the proposed design.
Submodular batch scheduling on parallel machines
Authors: Sun Tao , Wang Jun‐Qiang , Fan Guo‐Qiang , Liu Zhixin
Published: August 2024

This article studies a submodular batch scheduling problem motivated by the vacuum heat treatment. The batch processing time is formulated by a monotone nondecreasing submodular function characterized by decreasing marginal gain property. The objective is to minimize the makespan. We show the NP‐hardness of the problem on a single machine and of finding a polynomial‐time approximation algorithm with the worst‐case performance ratio strictly less than for the problem on parallel machines. We introduce a bounded interval to model the batch processing time using two parameters, that is, the total curvature and the quantization indicator. Based on the decreasing marginal gain property and the two parameters, we make a systematic analysis of the full batch longest processing time algorithm and the longest processing time greedy algorithm, and propose the instances with the bound of batch capacity for these two algorithms for the submodular batch scheduling problem. Moreover, we prove the submodularity of batch processing time function of the existing batch models including the parallel batch, serial batch, and mixed batch models. We compare the worst‐case performance ratios in the existing batch models with those deduced from our work in the submodular batch model. In most situations, the worst‐case performance ratios deduced from our work are comparable to the best‐known worst‐case performance ratios with tailored examinations.
Operators Need to Know How to Bridge the Gap Between Operations and the Laboratory
Authors: Sullivan Matthew , Adams Hunter , Chapman Vanessa , Ganegoda Sathya , Thomas Dave , Ash Steve , Southard Mark
Published: August 2024

Understanding how the laboratory is integral with the success of plant operations is key for operators to improve treatment processes and expand their knowledge.
Improving Treatment Plant Resilience With Reverse Osmosis
Authors: Sanders Christian , Owen Evan M.
Published: August 2024

When a US Marine Corps training facility decided to add a second aquifer to its existing groundwater supply, it designed a treatment plant that would successfully blend the two source waters and meet strict water quality goals.
Practical diagnosis and treatment of premenstrual syndrome and premenstrual dysphoric disorder by psychiatrists and obstetricians/gynecologists in Japan
Authors: Yoshimi Kana , Inoue Fumi , Odai Tamami , Shirato Nahoko , Watanabe Zen , Otsubo Tempei , Terauchi Masakazu , Takeda Takashi
Published: August 2024

Aim

To investigate and compare the diagnoses and treatment of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) from the perspectives of psychiatrists and obstetricians/gynecologists (OB/GYNs) in Japan.

Methods

Between December 2021 and February 2022, a web‐based survey was conducted among the members of the Japanese Association of Neuro‐Psychiatric Clinics. Data from 262 psychiatrists who responded to the aforementioned survey were compared with data from 409 OB/GYNs from a survey conducted in 2021 among members of the Japanese Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Results

Overall, 79.8% of psychiatrists and 97.3% of OB/GYNs were involved in practicing PMS/PMDD diagnosis and treatment. Most psychiatrists believed that PMS should be treated by OB/GYNs (74.4%) and PMDD by psychiatrists (75.6%). Only vague medical interviews were conducted by 86.6% of psychiatrists, and only 9.7% maintained a two‐cycle symptom diary. Psychiatrists mostly prescribed selective serotonin/serotonin and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor (SSRI/SNRI) continuous dosing (91.1%), followed by Kampo medicines, especially Kamishoyosan (73.3%); only 2.8% chose oral contraceptive pills, unlike OB/GYNs, while SSRI continuous (32.8%) and luteal phase dosing (20.6%) and Kampo medicine (42.1%) were the most common first‐line treatments. Lifestyle guidance was prescribed by 63.6% of psychiatrists, followed by cognitive behavioral therapy (13.8%) and the symptom diary observation method (11.1%), which were similar to OB/GYNs' choices.

Conclusions

Many Japanese psychiatrists and OB/GYNs do not base PMS/PMDD diagnoses on prospective monitoring methods using specific diagnostic criteria and therefore do not provide evidence‐based treatment. Moreover, a tendency of being biased toward treatments in which the department specialized was observed.
Synthesis of acrylate copolymer‐based super oil adsorption resins and their performances
Authors: Zhou Feng , Song Yu , Li Yu , Ren Xianyan
Published: August 2024

In this paper, an acrylate copolymer‐based oil adsorption resin was designed and synthesized by a suspension polymerization with octadecyl acrylate (SA) and butyl acrylate (BA) as monomers, divinylbenzene (DVB) as a cross‐linking agent, and toluene as a pore‐forming agent. By studying the synthesis conditions, the copolymer “SA‐BA‐DVB” (PSBA) with the best adsorption capacity was obtained, when the molar ratio between SA and BA was about 0.9, the content of the DVB and PVA 1788 was about 0.107 wt% and 1.0 wt%, respectively, accounting for the total mass amount of the monomers. Furthermore, by introducing 2% reactive silica nanoparticles (R‐SiO2), the performances of the PSBA were improved due to its increased hydrophobicity and activity space. The equilibrium adsorption capacity of the resulted R‐SiO2/PSBA to kerosene, diesel oil, benzene, and p‐xylene was 31.90, 34.13, 39.44, and 41.81 mL/g, respectively, which is about 1.12 to 1.21 times higher than that of the PSBA. Also, the R‐SiO2/PSBA show brilliant oil retention rate of about 99% after centrifugation at 3000 rpm for 5 min and recycling ability which can be reusable for at least 10 absorption‐desorption cycles without capacity change, demonstrating that the obtained R‐SiO2/PSBA resin can be used as oil removing agents in the field of oil spill applications.

Highlights

R‐SiO2 modified acrylate copolymer as an oil adsorption resin was designed and synthesized.

The influence of the monomers, cross‐linking agent, and others on the adsorption resin was systematically studied.

The adsorption kinetics and performances of the adsorption resin were studied.
Generation of state‐dependent ensemble perturbations based on time‐varying seawater density for GloSea5 initialization
Authors: Lee Jeong‐Gil , Ham Yoo‐Geun , Kim Ji‐Gwang , Chang Pil‐Hun
Published: August 2024

In this study, we developed a flow‐dependent oceanic initialization system for initializing the oceanic temperature and salinity in the Global Seasonal forecast system version 5 (GloSea5). Our algorithm overcomes the limitation of stationary perturbations for Ensemble Optimal Interpolation (EnOI) by spreading observed information along isopycnal lines to create three‐dimensional snapshot density states. The proposed algorithm, which we call state‐dependent ensemble‐based EnOI (SD‐EnOI), takes into account changes in the background error covariance over time without relying on ensemble model simulations. To evaluate the quality of the oceanic initial conditions (ICs) produced by SD‐EnOI, we compared them with those generated by the Global Ocean Data Assimilation and Prediction System version 1 (GODAPS1) operated by the Korea Meteorological Agency (KMA) throughout January 2017 to December 2017. Our findings show that the thermal construction of the SD‐EnOI ICs is more realistic than that of GODAPS1, particularly in the tropical Pacific region. The strong warm bias in sea surface temperature (SST) and the shallow mixed‐layer depth bias observed in the GODAPS1 ICs are not shown in SD‐EnOI. Due to the more realistic oceanic thermal structure present in the SD‐EnOI ICs, their use in retrospective forecast experiments resulted in a systematic reduction in climatological SST drift in the central‐eastern Pacific for forecasts up to four lead months compared to using GODAPS1 ICs. This demonstrates the significant impact of the initialization process on the quality of dynamical seasonal forecasts.
Data‐driven adaptive resilient funnel consensus tracking of multiagent systems under jamming attacks
Authors: Sun Shan‐Shan , Li Yuan‐Xin
Published: August 2024

In this article, we investigate a model‐free adaptive funnel control framework for nonlinear multiagent systems under jamming attacks. An equivalent time‐varying linear data model is built for agents by utilizing the dynamic linearization approach. Then, a predefined funnel function is presented such that the tracking errors are expected to evolve within a predetermined range. The transient and steady‐state behaviors of the tracking error can be improved by adjusting the parameter values of the funnel function. Moreover, the Stackelberg game is employed to determine the optimal transmission power between the transmitters and jammers considering the state of the transmission channel, which influences the jamming attack rate. Based on funnel control, a model‐free adaptive funnel control scheme is presented to guarantee that the tracking error remains within a funnel boundary (even in the presence of jamming attacks) and the transient and steady‐state performances are improved. The effectiveness of the proposed algorithm is further demonstrated through simulations.
An advanced robust integral reinforcement learning scheme with the fuzzy inference system
Authors: Liu Ao , Wang Ding , Qiao Junfei
Published: August 2024

In this paper, the model‐free robust control problem is investigated for nonlinear systems with a relaxed condition of initial admissible control. An advanced integral reinforcement learning method is developed, which merges the adaptive network‐based fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) and pre‐training of the initial weights. To loose the condition for choosing the initial control law, pre‐training of initial weights is established by utilizing the ANFIS to provide the information corresponding to the system model, which is applicable to the model‐free issue. Based on the actor‐critic structure, the approximate optimal control law is obtained by employing adaptive dynamic programming. Redesigning the obtained control law, the robust controller can be derived to stabilize the system with the uncertain term. Eventually, two examples are utilized to verify the effectiveness of the constructed algorithm.
Acute Generalised Exanthematous Pustulosis Associated with Upadacitinib Treatment
Authors: Banda Thandiwe , Butt Sanaa , Maheshwari Madhavi , Chattopadhyay Moumita
Published: August 2024

Acute generalised exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP) is a rare drug-induced pustular eruption characterised by the rapid onset of superficial pinhead pustules. We discuss the case of a 27-year-old man who presented with a generalised pustular eruption on the neck, trunk and limbs. He commenced upadacitinib for the treatment of atopic dermatitis (AD) 6 months before developing the rash, and the dose was increased from 15 to 30 mg daily, 3 months prior. His only other medication was oral terbinafine, for suspected tinea corporis, which was initiated 1 month before developing the pustular eruption. Laboratory investigations showed a mildly raised CRP 25 mg/L, neutrophilia 8.22 10 × 9/L, and a mildly raised ALT 46 U/L. A skin biopsy showed subcorneal pustules and a few scattered keratinocytes. Upadacitinib and terbinafine were suspended and the pustular eruption resolved. Updacitinib was reintroduced 3 weeks later as the rash was thought to be due to terbinafine and the rash recurred. He was diagnosed with AGEP secondary to upadacitinib. Upadacitinib is a selective JAK inhibitor that is increasingly used for the management of AD and clinicians should be aware that AGEP is a rare but severe adverse effect.
An analytical solution for shear bearing capacity of circumferential joints of precast concrete segmental tunnel linings considering dowel action
Authors: Amjad Rizwan , Zhang Yumeng , Liu Xian
Published: August 2024

The capacity of the circumferential joint of the precast concrete segmental tunnel lining (PCTL) structure in terms of shear performance principally includes the dowel action by connector/bolt as well as friction force, and it is a vital parameter to assess the mechanical response of the circumferential joint. Further, as there was no analytical model available for precise estimation of a circumferential joint in terms of the shear‐bearing capacity considering the dowel action of the bolt in the presence of axial/normal force, therefore in this investigation, an analytical model has been proposed to estimate the shear‐bearing capacity of the circumferential joint. Furthermore, the analytical model's precision and accuracy were validated via large‐scale experimental investigation on a circumferential joint of PCTL. Upon comparing analytical model outcomes with experimental results, absolute error varied between +5% and −9%, with an average value of the coefficient of friction at the yield point of the bolt. Moreover, the formation of hinges on the side of the bolt within the segment was considered a failure of the circumferential joint. Additionally, the parametric investigation revealed that with just a 1% change in axial force, the diameter, pre‐tightening, and yield strength of the bolt and concrete strength improved by 2.85%, 1%, 0.27%, 0.26% and 0.17% shear‐bearing capacity of the circumferential joint respectively. Axial force variation greatly influences the shear‐bearing capacity of circumferential joint followed by diameter, pre‐tightening, yield strength of the bolt, and concrete strength. Conclusively, with analysis of axial force distribution around the ring for the tunnel, the proposed model has been applied to a full ring to estimate shear bearing capacity.
Structure Design of a Four‐Pillar Magnetically Integrated Fractional‐Turn Planar Transformer and its Loss Analysis
Authors: Wang Pengxiang , Cao Haichuan , Xiao Jian
Published: August 2024

In the field of high‐frequency transformers, winding losses and core losses constrain the improvement of the power density of planar transformers. Reducing losses on the AC resistor and losses on the core is the key to improving the energy transfer efficiency of planar transformers. Aiming at the half‐bridge LLC resonant converter, this paper proposes a novel structure of a four‐pillar magnetically integrated fractional‐turn planar transformer. In terms of the core structure, according to the principle of magnetic integration, integrate four discrete magnetic cores into a single core, effectively reducing the core volume, so reduces core losses. In the winding, the secondary winding for half‐turn structure, compared with the traditional planar transformer, the primary winding and the secondary winding turns ratio from n:1 to 0.5n:0.5, the primary winding and secondary winding loss reduced to the original 1 of 2. The secondary side windings are combined with the windings of the same current direction by suitable arrangement. By increasing the current path, effectively reduces the problem of uneven distribution of current density in the winding and reduces the AC losses on the winding. © 2024 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan and Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Constraining Asymmetric Dark Matter using colliders and direct detection
Authors: Roy Arnab , Dasgupta Basudeb , Guchait Monoranjan
Published: August 2024

Abstract

We reappraise the viability of asymmetric dark matter (ADM) realized as a Dirac fermion coupling dominantly to the Standard Model fermions. Treating the interactions of such a DM particle with quarks/leptons in an effective-interactions framework, we derive updated constraints using mono-jet searches from the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) and mono-photon searches at the Large Electron-Positron (LEP) collider. We carefully model the detectors used in these experiments, which is found to have significant impact. The constraint of efficient annihilation of the symmetric part of the ADM, as well as other observational constraints are synthesized to produce a global picture. Consistent with previous work, we find that ADM with mass in the range 1–100 GeV is strongly constrained, thus ruling out its best motivated mass range. However, we find that leptophilic ADM remains allowed for ≳ 10 GeV DM, including bounds from colliders, direct detection, and stellar heating. We forecast that the Future Circular Collider for electron-positron collisions (FCC-ee) will improve sensitivity to DM-lepton interactions by almost an order of magnitude.
Lorentz violating backgrounds from quadratic, shift-symmetric, ultralight dark matter
Authors: Jiang Minyuan , Pecjak Benjamin D. , Perez Gilad , Sankaranarayanan Somasundaram
Published: August 2024

Abstract

We consider an effective theory for a shift-symmetric, quadratically-coupled, ultralight spin-0 field. The leading CP conserving interactions with Standard Model fields in the effective theory arise at dimension 8. We discuss the renormalization group evolution and positivity bounds on these operators, as well as their possible UV origins. Assuming that the spin-0 field is associated with an ultralight dark matter candidate, we discuss the effects of the dimension-8 operators on experiments searching for the oscillation of fundamental constants and Lorentz violation. We find that the direct bounds on these two effects are of similar strength but rather weak, corresponding to a UV cutoff scale of keV order, as they are mediated by dimension-8 operators.
Mineralogy, mineral chemistry, and genesis of Cu-Ni-As-rich ores at Lisheen, Ireland
Authors: Frenzel Max , Röhner Markus , Cook Nigel J. , Gilbert Sarah , Ciobanu Cristiana L. , Güven John F.
Published: August 2024

The Irish Orefield is characterised by the presence of both Zn-Pb- and Cu-Ni-As-rich deposits, prospects, and orebodies in similar structural and stratigraphic positions. However, the genetic relationships between these mineralisation types are still debated. In this article, we present new mineralogical, paragenetic, and mineral-chemical observations from the Cu-Ni-As-rich ores at the classic Lisheen deposit, County Tipperary. These observations indicate the intimate association and cogenetic nature of these ores with the more abundant Zn-Pb-rich mineralisation. Specifically, both mineralisation types appear to have formed at the same time, under similar physicochemical conditions, and from the same ore fluids. In addition, both types of mineralisation contain elevated Ge contents. The cogenetic nature of the two mineralisation types, the relative absence of Cu-Ni-As-rich ores from most of the larger Irish-type Zn-Pb deposits compared to expectations derived from probable ore fluid compositions, and finally, the known geological characteristics of larger Cu-Ni-As-rich ore bodies, like Gortdrum, indicate that significant Cu-Ni-As-rich mineralisation could be present at lower stratigraphic levels across the Irish Orefield. Areas with extensive known Zn-Pb mineralisation are expected to be particularly prospective for such ores, which may occur at stratigraphic levels as deep as the Old Red Sandstone. This may have additional implications beyond Ireland, and could point to the potential for undiscovered Cu-rich ores in low-temperature carbonate-hosted Zn-Pb districts elsewhere.
Standardized template for clinical reporting of PSMA PET/CT scans
Authors: Esfahani Shadi A. , Morris Michael J. , Sartor Oliver , Frydenberg Mark , Fanti Stefano , Calais Jeremie , Vapiwala Neha
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Accurate diagnosis and staging of prostate cancer are crucial to improving patient care. Prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA)-targeted positron emission tomography with computed tomography (PET/CT) imaging has demonstrated superiority for initial staging and restaging in patients with prostate cancer. Referring physicians and PET/CT readers must agree on a consistent communication method and application of information derived from this imaging modality. While several guidelines have been published, a single PSMA PET/CT reporting template has yet to be widely adopted. Based on the consensus from community and academic physicians, we developed a standardized PSMA PET/CT reporting template for radiologists and nuclear medicine physicians to report and relay key imaging findings to referring physicians. The aim was to improve the quality, clarity, and utility of imaging results reporting to facilitate patient management decisions.

Methods

Based on community and expert consensus, we developed a standardized PSMA PET/CT reporting template to deliver key imaging findings to referring clinicians.

Results

Core category components proposed include a summary of any prior treatment history; presence, location, and degree of PSMA radiopharmaceutical uptake in primary and/or metastatic tumor(s), lesions with no uptake, and incidentally found lesions with positive uptake on PET/CT.

Conclusions

This article provides recommendations on best practices for standardized reporting of PSMA PET/CT imaging. The generated reporting template is a proposed supplement designed to educate and improve data communication between imaging experts and referring physicians.
Role of surgery in the treatment of pediatric low-grade glioma with various degrees of brain stem involvement
Authors: Lorincz Katalin Nora , Gorodezki David , Schittenhelm Jens , Zipfel Julian , Tellermann Jonas , Tatagiba Marcos , Ebinger Martin , Schuhmann Martin Ulrich
Published: August 2024

Objective

Posterior fossa pediatric low-grade glioma involving the brainstem and cerebellar peduncles (BS-pLGG) are a subgroup with higher risks at surgery. We retrospectively analyzed the role of surgery in the interdisciplinary armamentarium of treatment options in our institutional series of BS-pLGG with various degrees of brainstem involvement.

Material and methods

We analyzed data of 52 children with BS-pLGG after surgical intervention for clinical/molecular characteristics, neurological outcome, factors influencing recurrence/progression pattern, and tumor volumetric analysis of exclusively surgically treated patients to calculate tumor growth velocity (TGV). Tumors were stratified according to primary tumor origin in four groups: (1) cerebellar peduncle, (2) 4th ventricle, (3) pons, (4) medulla oblongata.

Results

The mean FU was 6.44 years. Overall survival was 98%. The mean PFS was 34.07 months. Two patients had biopsies only. Fifty-two percent of patients underwent remission or remained in stable disease (SD) after initial surgery. Patients with progression underwent further 23 resections, 15 chemotherapies, 4 targeted treatments, and 2 proton radiations. TGV decreased after the 2nd surgery compared to TGV after the 1st surgery (p < 0.05). The resection rates were significantly higher in Groups 1 and 2 and lowest in medulla oblongata tumors (Group 4) (p < 0.05). More extended resections were achieved in tumors with KIAA1549::BRAF fusion (p = 0.021), which mostly occurred in favorable locations (Groups 1 and 2). Thirty-one patients showed postoperatively new neurological deficits. A total of 27/31 improved within 12 months. At the end of FU, 6% had moderate deficits, 52% had mild deficits not affecting activities, and 36% had none. Fifty percent of patients were free of disease or showed remission, 38% were in SD, and 10% showed progression.

Conclusion

The first surgical intervention in BS-pLGG can control disease alone in overall 50% of cases, with rates differing greatly according to location (Groups 1 > 2 > 3 > 4), with acceptable low morbidity. The second look surgery is warranted except in medullary tumors. With multimodality treatments almost 90% of patients can obtain remission or stable disease after > 5 years of follow-up. An integrated multimodal and multidisciplinary approach aiming at minimal safe residual disease, combining surgery, chemo-, targeted therapy, and, as an exception, radiation therapy, is mandatory.
Social and emotional impact of anterior drooling in school-age children and young people with neurodevelopmental disabilities
Authors: Orriëns Lynn B. , van Aarle Lieke G. J. M. , Erasmus Corrie E. , van Hulst Karen , van der Burg Jan J. W.
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Anterior drooling is a common comorbidity in children and young people (CYP) with neurodevelopmental disabilities. This study aimed to assess the social and emotional impact of drooling in CYP with a developmental age (DA) of 6 years and older, in whom this impact may differ from those with a lower DA due to their developing sense of self and awareness of their position within social groups.

Methods

Questionnaire data collected for routine clinical care were used to assess parental perceptions of the impact of drooling on (1) social interaction; (2) satisfaction with social interaction, appearance, family relations and life in general and (3) the way CYP expressed feelings on appearance, acceptance by peers and acceptance by adults. Fisher’s exact tests and Mann–Whitney U tests were applied to identify associations between clinical characteristics and the social and emotional impact of drooling.

Results

Seventy-nine CYP with an estimated DA ≥ 6 years were included. The majority experienced frequent to constant (83%) and profuse (61%) drooling. Drooling frequently compromised social interaction with peers (49%) and adults (28%), and cognitive abilities were underestimated in 40%. Dissatisfaction with physical appearance (25%) related to drooling was noted. One-fifth of CYP reportedly expressed negative feelings on acceptance by peers related to drooling.

Conclusions: These findings underscore the substantial impact of drooling on CYP with a DA of 6 years and older, primarily through avoidance by peers and underestimated cognitive abilities, emphasizing that recognizing and addressing these social-emotional consequences should be integral to clinical care.

What is Known:• Anterior drooling is common among children and youth with neurodevelopmental disabilities.

What is New:• There seems to be a heightened prevalence of impaired social interaction with peers and underestimation of cognitive abilities due to drooling among children with a developmental age of at least 6 years compared to previous studies with more heterogeneous populations.• The impact of drooling can extend to domains that affect self-esteem, although this may not be fully captured with standardized questions, requiring clinicians to address these consequences in a way that is tailored to the child’s experiences.
Unravelling the evolution of a continental rift by a multi-proxy provenance study (Albertine Rift, Uganda)
Authors: Hinderer M. , Schneider S. , Stutenbecker L.
Published: August 2024

Sedimentary provenance analysis has rarely been applied to continental rifts, because source-rock terrains are assumed to be uniform and supply systems stable and closely connected to the formation of graben shoulders. Here, we test the suitability of multi-proxy sedimentary provenance analysis to unravel the evolution of a segment of the East African Rift System from its sedimentary record, where an extreme relief has been created and a continent-wide drainage system has been affected. Multi-proxy techniques include petrographic-mineralogical analysis (framework, heavy mineral spectra, zircon morphology, and colour), as well as single-grain garnet geochemistry, Zr-in-rutile thermometry, and geochronological methods (detrital zircon U–Pb ages). Published data are compiled and complemented by new U–Pb detrital zircon data of rift sediments. Because a comprehensive database of basement source-rock compositions from East Africa is missing, published modern river sand compositions have been added to provide endmember source fingerprints. The selected Albertine Rift is surrounded by four main source terrains within the East African Basement, which cannot be separated clearly by individual provenance indicators. Most useful were heavy mineral spectra, garnet composition, and with limitation Zr-in-rutile thermometry showing different metamorphic overprint. U–Pb detrital zircon spectra assisted well in detecting juvenile magmatism of different orogenic events, but repeated inheritance in younger units prevented a strict allocation. Petrographic maturity turned out to be more dependent on multi-cycle detritus as on climate shift. Applying endmember composition to rift sediments, three evolutionary stages of the Albertine Rift could be identified which coincide with basin-scale unconformities. Moreover, we could prove a large, southwest trending drainage network in East Africa during the Miocene, which was destructed step-wise by ongoing rifting. Extreme uplift of the Rwenzori Mountains up to 5109 m could be documented by a specific set of provenance indicators justified by modern river sand. Three main lessons can be drawn from this study: (1) basement units can be only reliably characterized by a combination of provenance-sensitive parameters, and here, the frequently used U–Pb detrital zircon ages are not sufficient; (2) it is possible to define subunits, e.g., individual fault-blocks within the rift; and (3) chemical weathering is unproblematic when applying a multi-parameter approach even in a tropical setting.

Graphical abstract