bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RASPBERRY PI TABANLI GİTAR AKORT CİHAZI
Authors: ACAR Ömer Faruk , YARKAN Serhan
Published: January 2023

Akort, müzik aletlerinin çalındığında istenilen notayı vermesi için müzik aletlerinin ayarlanması işlemidir. Doğru notayı çalabilmek istenilen müziği elde edebilmek için önemli bir adımdır. Müzik aletlerinin akort edilebilmesi için çeşitli yöntemler bulunmaktadır. Bu çalışmada; gitar akort sisteminin oluşturulması, sanatçıların gitar ses kayıtları ile çalınan müziğin kıyaslanması ve gerçeklemesi ele alınmıştır. Donanım için Raspberry Pi, yazılım için Python programlama dili kullanılmıştır. Gerçekleştirilen sistemde, Raspberry Pi mikrofon ile kullanıcılardan alınan gitar seslerini okur ve verilen girdi yazılıma gönderilir. Uygulama ile kullanıcıdan alınan sesler yazı formatına dönüştürülerek sanatçılardan alınan gitar sesleri ile kıyaslanabilir hale gelmesi sağlanmaktadır. Yapılan kıyaslama ile kullanıcılar ve sanatçılar arasındaki nota farklılıkları gözlemlenebilir hale gelmiştir.
New method of sterilization and disinfection of objects infected with COVID 19 and prototype test
Authors:   ", STARETU IONEL ,   Transilvania University of Brasov, 29 Eroilor Bd., Brasov, Romania Technical Sciences Academy of Romania, 26 Dacia Bd., Bucharest, Romania", VOICU ION ,   SC ECSA SRL, 20 Toamnei, Brasov 500223, Romania
Published: January 2023

This paper addresses an issue of utmost importance at present, namely the sterilization/disinfection of objects infected with SARS CoV 2 virus (COVID 19), using an original technical solution. First, general data on COVID 19 virus are presented. The main regulations and technical solutions for sterilization and disinfection are then presented in order to highlight as much as possible the importance of the problem addressed and the degree of innovation of the proposed solution. Next, the proposed technical solution for sterilization and disinfection with the use of infrared radiant panels is presented, a better solution compared to the currently known solutions. The principle concept is presented, then the technical prototype made and the results of experiments performed to establish the characteristics of operation and use of the equipment obtained. The equipment is made using high - performance components and has the possibility of programming according to several operating situations, being equipped with an electronic control unit. The possibilities of completion in several types and dimensions are shown, for several types of objects subjected to sterilization and disinfection.
A MATLAB toolbox for analysis of the environmental matrix in open seas and coastal areas
Authors:   Faculty of Engineering, “Dunarea de Jos” University of Galați 47 Domneasca St., Galati, Romania, RUSU LILIANA
Published: January 2023

Given the climate changes that are becoming more evident in recent years, the assessment of their impact on the dynamics of the environment matrix over extended periods is needed. In this paper, the results obtained using a Matlab toolbox developed to provide numerical and graphical outputs for a quick assessment of the present and future wave and wind climate are presented. Based on the wave and wind simulation data, quick information about the sea states or wind conditions over an area or in selected points are provided as output. These include annual, seasonal and monthly statistics, trends, bivariate distribution of the wave parameters, wind speed magnitude, average wave and wind energy, analyses of the extreme events, etc., Such results are of interest for various applications in the marine environment.
A possible way to unify the electrostatic (Coulomb) and nuclear (Yukawa) interactions by using a hydrodynamic analogy
Authors:   “Politehnica” University of Bucharest, Faculty of Aerospace Engineering, 011061 Bucharest, Romania, BERBENTE CORNELIU , BERBENTE SORIN ,   Politehnica” University of Bucharest, Faculty of Aerospace Engineering, 011061 Bucharest, Romania INCAS – National Institute for Aerospace Research “Elie Carafoli”, B-dul Iuliu Maniu 220, 061126 Bucharest, Romania", BREBENEL MARIUS ,   INCAS – National Institute for Aerospace Research “Elie Carafoli”, B-dul Iuliu Maniu 220, 061126 Bucharest, Romania
Published: January 2023

In a previous paper [3] we have used the hydrodynamic analogy to give a model for gravity. A carrying particle named HD-graviton was introduced. In another paper [8], a hydrodynamic analog permitted to unify the theory to include the Coulomb force using so called “vortex masses” having as hydrodynamical correspondent the vortices. In this paper we will give a hydrodynamic interpretation to the YUKAWA (nuclear) interaction. We remember that the hydrodynamical analog for the electrical charges are the vortices.
Effects of the height of supply outlet of façade-mounted hybrid downdraft evaporative cooler on the indoor air quality of an office building
Authors:   Department of Mechanical Engineering, Federal Polytechnic Mubi, P.M.B 35, Mubi, Adamawa State, Nigeria, HARUNA IBRAHIM USMAN , RUFAI IBRAHIM AHMAD ,   Department of Mechanical Engineering, Bayero University Kano, Kano State, Nigeria, YAYAYA DALHATU BALARABE ,   Department of Mechanical Engineering, Bayero University Kano, Kano State, Nigeria
Published: January 2023

The hybrid downdraft evaporative cooler (HDEC) conditions a building by cooling with humidification and hence, inappropriate location of its supply outlet on a building facade has a great impact on the indoor air quality (IAQ) which affect the health, concentration, and productivity of the occupants. This paper investigates the effect of the height of the HDEC supply outlet on the IAQ of an office building equipped with the HDEC system in Bayero University Kano. The building model was created using DesignBuilder software while DesignBuilder CFD was employed for the parametric simulation using air change effectiveness (ACE) as the performance criterion. The height of the HDEC supply outlet was varyfrom 0.1m to 2.4m step 0.1m above the floor level. The results show that higher values of ACE in the occupants’ breathing zone were obtained at lower heights of the HDEC supply outlets with the best ACE of 1.1588 obtained at 0.3m. This information could help engineers to optimally position the HDEC supply outlet on the façade of an office building or any other building with similar characteristics.
Critical materials as key factor providing efficiency in energy engineering
Authors:   ", LUCAN DUMITRA ,   Institute for Nuclear Research, Campului no.1, Mioveni, POB 78, Arges, Romania Technical Sciences Academy of Romania ASTR, Dacia Avenue no.26, Bucharest, Romania ", SAMARINEANU CLAUDIA ,   Institute for Nuclear Research, Campului no.1, Mioveni, POB 78, Arges, Romania, JINESCU GHEORGHIȚA ,   "Technical Sciences Academy of Romania ASTR, Dacia Avenue no.26, Bucharest, Romania Politehnica University of Bucharest, Polizu Street no. 1-7, Bucharest, Romania"
Published: January 2023

"The energy transition should be planned with critical materials in mind to avoid unforeseen delays. This planning relates to both supply and demand aspects. Better public data are needed regarding the capacity to ramp up mining of primary materials in the coming years. Also, the potential of innovation to avoid or minimise use of critical materials needs to be better understood. This paper will assess how the growth of different types of energy (including nuclear) will put critical materials at the centre of the energy transformation at the international level, with the objective of highlighting the criticalities related to the sector and of identifying how technological developments and innovation can positively reduce geopolitical risks. For Europe’s ambition to deliver the Green Deal the access to resources is a strategic security question. The EU’s open strategic autonomy in these sectors will therefore need to continue to be anchored in diversified and undistorted access to global markets for raw materials. The paper also presents a case study of the exploitation of Romania natural resources."
Üniversite Öğrencilerinin Girişimcilik Eğilimlerinin Belirlenmesi: Pamukkale Üniversitesi Örneği
Authors: ÖZTÜRK Ramazan , SERİNKAN Celalettin
Published: January 2023

Bu çalışmada Pamukkale Üniversitesi İktisadi ve İdari Bilimler Fakültesi İşletme bölümü öğrencilerinin girişimcilik eğilimlerinin belirlenmesi amaçlanmıştır. Bu amaçla online anket yöntemi ile 101 öğrenciden veriler toplanıp spss programında analiz edilmiştir. Araştırmanın sonuçlarına göre cinsiyet, yaş, ailenin işletme sahibi olması ve ailenin durumu ile girişimcilik eğilimi arasında anlamlı bir farklılık olmadığı tespit edilmiştir. Ancak ailenin geliri ile girişimcilik eğilimi arasında farklılık olduğu tespit edilmiştir. Öğrencilerin ailelerinin gelir durumu iyi olanların girişimcilik eğilimine daha yatkın olduğu saptanmıştır.
DESARROLLO DE UN SISTEMA OLFATIVO ELECTRÓNICO PARA EL DIAGNÓSTICO PRELIMINAR NO INVASIVO DE LA DIABETES
Authors: Mendoza Montoya Jorge Javier , Ávila Navarro Ernesto
Published: January 2023

El artículo muestra los avances obtenidos para el diagnóstico preliminar de la diabetes por medio de una novedosa técnica no invasiva, utiliza un sistema olfativo electrónico de respuesta rápida y de bajo costo. El diseño de este sistema olfativo electrónico, permite el monitoreo en tiempo real de la diabetes, utiliza sensores de metal óxido capaces de detectar componentes orgánicos volátiles y que configurados adecuadamente, pueden detectar cuerpos cetónicos. El módulo olfativo electrónico consta de 08 sensores de metal óxido de la marca Japonesa Figaro (serie TGS26xx), el sistema de control y adquisición de datos se realizó con un sistema embebido Bluno-Nano que cuenta con un conversor análogo digital de 08 canales a 10 bits. Para el control y procesamiento de datos, se utilizó la plataforma Arduino-IDE y el lenguaje Python. El método empleado es analítico y deductivo, se basa en la adquisición, análisis e interpretación de datos; se realizó 10 pruebas olfativas para tres disoluciones de acetona con proporciones de 17,3 mg/dL, 30,7 mg/dL y 104,0 mg/dL. Los niveles de acetona detectados por el sistema olfativo electrónico entregaron resultados caracterizados como concentraciones de nivel Bajo, Medio y Alto, la precisión depende del tipo de sensor. Los resultados demuestran que el sistema olfativo electrónico propuesto puede ser utilizado para la detección de cuerpos cetónicos en disoluciones acuosas. Las pruebas con muestras de orina se deben de realizar en un hospital para corroborar
Exploring Different Aspects of Nursing Leadership: An Integrative Review of Qualitative Studies
Authors: Aydogdu Ana Luiza Ferreira
Published: January 2023

Context: Leadership is the process of influencing people to achieve common goals. In all nurses' roles, leadership is emphasized since nurse leaders' attitudes influence nurses’ job satisfaction and retention and, consequently, the quality of care. Objective: This study aimed to explore the scientific literature concerning different aspects of leadership in nursing. Methods: This is an integrative review of qualitative studies in which four electronic databases (Medline, PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar) were searched. Articles published in the last ten years (2013 - 2022) were searched by titles using the descriptors "qualitative," "leadership," and "nursing" linked by the Boolean Operator AND. The search carried out in July 2022 was not limited by the publication language. A total of 63 studies were identified, and 11 original primary research articles were included. The quality of articles was assessed using the Critical Appraisal Skills Program (CASP). Qualitative content analysis was performed to analyze the obtained data. Results: The results were organized into three categories: (1) the importance of nursing leadership and leaders' roles; (2) ethical leadership; and (3) nursing leadership education. Personal characteristics of nurse leaders and leadership skills were indicated as factors influencing staff nurses’ attitudes and reflecting on the quality of care. Training in nursing leadership since the early years of nursing education is essential for future nursing leaders. Conclusions: Nurse leaders influence other team members and patients; consequently, nursing leadership impacts the quality of care. Therefore, training on leadership should be addressed in nursing schools in undergraduate and postgraduate courses and health institutions through continuing education.
New species of Polycystididae (Platyhelminthes: Kalyptorhynchia) from Cuba and the Pacific coast of Panama
Authors: Diez Yander L. , Sanjuan Claudia , Monnens Marlies , Artois Tom
Published: January 2023

Four new species of marine polycystidid microturbellarians (Platyhelminthes, Kalyptorhynchia) are described from Cuba and Panama. These species are Brachyrhynchoides ortizi sp. nov., Djeziraia adriani sp. nov., Phonorhynchoides lalanai sp. nov., and Sabulirhynchus ibarrae sp. nov. All species occur in Cuba, and P. lalanai sp. nov. was also retrieved from the Pacific coast of Panama. From the latter locality, we also report Sabulirhynchus axi Artois & Schockaert, 2000. All species are readily distinguished from their congeners by the morphology of the sclerotised structures of the male genital system. The prostatic stylet of B. ortizi sp. nov. is the shortest and widest known for Brachyrhynchoides. Djeziraia adriani sp. nov. can be recognized by its paired seminal vesicles and S-shaped prostate stylet. The prostatic stylet of P. lalanai sp. nov. is proximally twisted and the length proportion between its accessory and prostatic stylet is the largest among all known species of Phonorhynchoides. Sabulirhynchus axi and Sabulirhynchus ibarrae sp. nov. are morphologically similar, yet the latter species is unique due to the characteristic ridge in the middle of the proximally tubular prostatic stylet. With the data available today, a possible explanation of rhabdocoel biogeographic patterns across the Isthmus of Panama remains largely speculative.
Staying Online in Uncertain Times: A Nationwide Canadian Survey of Pathology Resident Uses of and Adaptations to Online Learning During COVID-19
Authors: Baranova Katherina , Driman David K.
Published: January 2023

Context.—

Because of restrictions as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, medical educators rapidly transitioned to an online curriculum for pathology resident education. The benefits and challenges of the shift to online learning, as well as strategies to maximize learning, are yet to be fully elucidated.

Objective.—

To assess learner perception and satisfaction with the move to online learning. Understanding the benefits of online learning will allow future curricular changes to most effectively incorporate online learning. Understanding the common challenges will allow our current learning strategies to rapidly adapt and ideally mitigate these challenges as online learning is incorporated into medical education.

Design.—

This was a survey-based study distributed by email to pathology residents nationwide in Canada in anatomic pathology, general pathology, neuropathology, and hematopathology. Thirty residents participated, from anatomic pathology (n = 23; 76%), from general pathology (n = 5; 16%), and 1 participant each from hematopathology and neuropathology.

Results.—

All participants indicated that their program had transitioned to online learning at least in part. The majority of participants (n = 16; 53%) did not feel their pathology education was negatively affected by the transition to online learning; however, a significant minority (n = 6; 20%) felt their education had been negatively affected. Convenience and less intimidation were rated as benefits of online learning. Negative effects included technical issues and decreased engagement; we identified a number of strategies used by programs and pathology residents to mitigate these negative effects.

Conclusions.—

Our survey points to a need to use adaptations and best-practice recommendations to maximize the benefits of online learning moving forward.
Occupational accidents related to gender in the village of La Xuyen wood handicraft
Authors: Truong Thi Ly
Published: January 2023

One of the main craft groups in Vietnam is carpentry. According to research conducted in the La Xuyen wood handicraft village, accidents at work—from minor mishaps to serious and serious accidents—are quite common in the wood industry. Fatal workplace incident According to research, there are numerous hazards that could result in work accidents for both male and female employees in La Xuyen craft village. Men and women differ in that men experience more workplace accidents, and men also experience a higher rate of occupational accidents than women. This is because men frequently take on heavier tasks and use potentially flimsy machinery. Whereas women frequently take on simple, creative jobs that call for ingenuity and use few machines.
Masculinity and men’s resistance to meat reduction
Authors: Rosenfeld Daniel L.
Published: January 2023

This article conceptualizes meat reduction as a masculinity threat for men and presents strategies for making men more receptive to meat reduction. Meat consumption is stereotypically associated with traditional masculinity. Compared to women, men tend to eat more meat and to be more resistant to vegetarianism. Eschewing meat has potential to undermine feelings of and portrayals of manhood, whereas eating meat may provide men with a sense and image of traditional masculinity. Efforts to frame meat reduction as a masculine act may be useful for promoting behavior change among men. Three strategies are proposed for aligning meat reduction with masculinity, ripe for testing in future research. These strategies include emphasizing new forms of masculinity, masculine branding of meat reduction, and touting athletic/sexual performance benefits of meat reduction. Efforts that target beliefs about masculinity have promise for reducing meat consumption among men.
Waqf Sukuk as Instruments of Sustainable Development and Challenges of Issuing Them A Field Study in Malaysia
Authors:   Ibn Haldun University Ulubatlı Hasan Caddesi No: 2, 34494 İstanbul, Turkey, Kachkar Omar , Alfares Marwa ,   Department of Shariah and Management Academy of Islamic Studies, University Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Published: January 2023

Sustainable development has recently emerged as one of the hottest issues in the field of socioeconomic development. Throughout the Islamic history, waqf has played an essential role in supporting the sustainable development of Muslim communities. This paper attempts to provide a state-of-the-art review of waqf sukuk with special focus on the Malaysian context. Qualitative method has been utilised to collect data. Six semi-structured interviews have been conducted with waqf and sukuk experts in Malaysia. Research has found that so far there has not been any issuance of waqf sukuk in Malaysia. Interviewed experts have rightly pointed out a number of Shariah, legal, regulatory and operational challenges facing the issuance of waqf sukuk in Malaysia. Challenges include the lack of awareness on the importance of waqf sukuk, besides the serious lack of skilled and competent human resources and staff working in waqf administration and governance.
Discerner les trois types de voix saturées du genre musical métal : les implications sur la recherche
Authors: Cardinal Corinne
Published: January 2023

Les travaux sur les techniques vocales de chant guttural pratiquées dans la musique métal ne font que depuis peu l’objet de publications. À ce retard s’ajoute un manque de cohésion évident dans la littérature secondaire. En l’absence d’une terminologie efficace, les études tendent à se contredire l’une l’autre. Cet imbroglio obscurcit la connaissance, nécessaire afin de baliser la pratique et d’assurer une maîtrise adéquate de ces techniques vocales. Sans quoi, les apprenti·e·s chanteur·se·s encourent des risques de blessures.

Cet article pose les fondements des trois principales techniques de la voix saturée situées au coeur de la musique métal, soit le growl, le fry scream et le harsh vocal. La compréhension de leurs dissemblances invite à une classification rigoureuse et à une meilleure compréhension de l’instrument vocal.
Course Organization, Faculty-Student Interaction, and Student Involvement and Their Influence to Students' Course Outcomes
Authors: Xhomara Nazmi , Gusho Leticja , Muçaj Arjana
Published: January 2023

The purpose of the study is to investigate the influence of course organization, faculty- student interaction, and student involvement in course outcomes at university level. A correlational research design, a structured questionnaire, and a random cluster sample of the students (N=371) were used in the study. The study showed a significant difference somewhere among the mean scores of the course outcomes for the four groups of course organization. It also found a significant difference somewhere among the mean scores of the course outcomes for the five groups of faculty-student interaction, as well as a significant difference somewhere among the mean scores of the course outcomes for the five groups of student involvement. At the same time, the study showed that 32.6% of the variance in course outcomes is explained by course organization, 16.6% of the variance is explained by faculty-student interaction, and 28.4% of the variance is explained by student involvement. The findings of this study enhanced Astin’ s theory of student development, as course organization, faculty-student interaction, and student involvement are important variables that predict course outcomes.
STAT3 promotes RNA polymerase III-directed transcription by controlling the miR-106a-5p/TP73 axis
Authors: Zhang Cheng , Zhao Shasha , Deng Huan , Zhang Shihua , Wang Juan , Song Xiaoye , Yu Deen , Zhang Yue , Deng Wensheng
Published: January 2023

Deregulation of Pol III products causes a range of diseases, including neural diseases and cancers. However, the factors and mechanisms that modulate Pol III-directed transcription remain to be found, although massive advances have been achieved. Here, we show that STAT3 positively regulates the activities of Pol III-dependent transcription and cancer cell growth. RNA-seq analysis revealed that STAT3 inhibits the expression of TP73, a member of the p53 family. We found that TP73 is not only required for the regulation of Pol III-directed transcription mediated by STAT3 but also independently suppresses the synthesis of Pol III products. Mechanistically, TP73 can disrupt the assembly of TFIIIB subunits and inhibit their occupancies at Pol III target loci by interacting with TFIIIB subunit TBP. MiR-106a-5p can activate Pol III-directed transcription by targeting the TP73 mRNA 3’ UTR to reduce TP 73 expression. We show that STAT3 activates the expression of miR-106a-5p by binding to the miRNA promoter, indicating that the miR-106a-5p links STAT3 with TP73 to regulate Pol III-directed transcription. Collectively, these findings indicate that STAT3 functions as a positive regulator in Pol III-directed transcription by controlling the miR-106a-5p/TP73 axis.
Scleraxis-lineage cells are required for tendon homeostasis and their depletion induces an accelerated extracellular matrix aging phenotype
Authors: Korcari Antonion , Nichols Anne EC , Buckley Mark R , Loiselle Alayna E
Published: January 2023

Aged tendons have disrupted homeostasis, increased injury risk, and impaired healing capacity. Understanding mechanisms of homeostatic disruption is crucial for developing therapeutics to retain tendon health through the lifespan. Here, we developed a novel model of accelerated tendon extracellular matrix (ECM) aging via depletion of Scleraxis-lineage cells in young mice (Scx-DTR). Scx-DTR recapitulates many aspects of tendon aging including comparable declines in cellularity, alterations in ECM structure, organization, and composition. Single-cell RNA sequencing demonstrated a conserved decline in tenocytes associated with ECM biosynthesis in aged and Scx-DTR tendons, identifying the requirement for Scleraxis-lineage cells during homeostasis. However, the remaining cells in aged and Scx-DTR tendons demonstrate functional divergence. Aged tenocytes become pro-inflammatory and lose proteostasis. In contrast, tenocytes from Scx-DTR tendons demonstrate enhanced remodeling capacity. Collectively, this study defines Scx-DTR as a novel model of accelerated tendon ECM aging and identifies novel biological intervention points to maintain tendon function through the lifespan.
Challenges for corporate social responsibility practices
Authors: Rodrigues António Augusto Baptista , Kurnaz Salim
Published: January 2023

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) is an expression used by companies to show that they are aware that their role in society or in the community in which they operate is not just to seek profit.According to the European Commission (2011), corporate social responsibility is defined as "the responsibility of companies for the impact they have on society.The pandemic has challenged many companies and economies and affected millions of people, emphasizing the need for collaboration and alignment between economic activity and human needs. It is time for all companies to put into practice actions that honor the purpose and organizational values that are intrinsic to their “personality” and that reflect the willingness to work with others to solve the great problems of our world, simultaneously building and building trust. much needed in our society.To analyze the challenges facing social responsibility practices, a qualitative methodology was used, through the literature review method, using various sources: scientific articles, legislation and other technical-scientific documentation.This descriptive article contributed to the debate in which CSR is a matter of attitude, apart from the fact that each company does what it can according to its resources; because it is not a matter of social action, but of social responsibility. The social responsibility is a more global and larger concept than social action.The main conclusion suggests that the actions that business leaders take today will be decisive so that, in the near future, they can look back and feel proud and satisfied with what they have done. What is done today, in terms of social responsibility, will define the value and reputation of the company, strengthening its purpose and values. It is therefore an investment worth betting on.The Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) are also an opportunity for companies to expand Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), an initiative that constitutes one of the global efforts to translate sustainable development into something concrete and measurable.
Aspectos jurídicos de Compliance e proteção ambiental
Authors: Serotini André
Published: January 2023

Em razão da entrada em vigência da lei que dispõe sobre a responsabilização administrativa e civil de pessoas jurídicas pela prática de atos contra a administração pública, nacional ou estrangeira, em agosto de 2013, popularmente denominada de Lei Anticorrupção (Lei 12.846/2013), o instituto do compliance, já consolidado no sistema jurídico americano e europeu, ganhou relevância nacional, em especial para as organizações que mantém relação com a administração pública. Desta forma, este artigo tem como objetivo apresentar os principais aspectos jurídicos do compliance no Brasil o considerando como importante instrumento de gestão ambiental, trazendo vantagens estratégicas para as organizações nacionais diminuindo riscos, aumentando a eficiência de processos produtivos e, colaborando, em última instância para a prevenção de riscos ao meio ambiente, desenhando, desta forma, o conceito de compliance ambiental. Adota-se para a realização desta pesquisa o método de abordagem teórica lógico-dedutivo, baseado no necessário levantamento bibliográfico partindo do referencial teórico apresentado por Coimbra e Manzi (2010).
Development of a Clinically Viable Strategy for Nanoparticle‐Based Photodynamic Therapy of Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Guidolin Keegan , Ding Lili , Chen Juan , Zheng Gang
Published: January 2023

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an anticancer treatment modality that is poorly adopted into clinical practice for a variety of factors. Though fundamental studies supporting its utility abound, few clinical trials are performed on its use. This may be due to failures in the translation of treatment protocols used in fundamental studies into clinically viable protocols. This study seeks to develop a clinically viable protocol for the treatment of colorectal cancer using nanoparticle‐based PDT by using three complementary animal models. Using the porphysome nanoparticle as a model photosensitizer, several theoretical and practical challenges to the clinical delivery of PDT are addressed including the required drug‐light interval (DLI), the route of administration, and the method of light irradiation delivery. This study finds that nanoparticle‐based PDT can effectively ablate colorectal cancer tumors, that PDT can be effectively delivered after a relatively short DLI, and that safety concerns related to off‐target effects can be mitigated through the peritumoral administration of the photosensitizer and the transanal intraluminal placement of light irradiation. These findings lay the framework for future clinical trials investigating the use of PDT as a component of the multi‐modal approach to the treatment of colorectal cancer.
Multiple model averaging methods for predicting regional rice yield
Authors: Yu Jin , Tan Shuang , Zhan Jungang
Published: January 2023

Using multiple crop models in an ensemble can generate more accurate crop growth predictions than only using an individual crop model. However, few studies have investigated the performances of individual crop models and multiple model averaging (MMA) methods for predicting regional rice (Oryza sativa L.) yield with limited inputs and observations. This study assessed the performances of three individual crop models, that is, AquaCrop, WOFOST, and Oryza version 3 (OryzaV3), and five MMA methods for predicting regional rice yield. Results showed that the AquaCrop model achieved better performances than the WOFOST and OryzaV3 models for predicting regional rice yield, especially for the early‐season rice yield, which implied that a crop model with a simple structure was powerful for making accurate regional rice yield predictions. The MMA methods achieved better performances than the AquaCrop model for predicting the late‐season rice yield; however, the AquaCrop model and three information criterion (IC) methods, that is, Akaike IC (AIC), Bayesian IC (BIC), and AICc (bias‐corrected), achieved more acceptable prediction accuracies of the early‐season rice yield than the other MMA methods. Overall, not all the MMA methods could necessarily produce more accurate regional rice yield prediction than individual crop models. This study suggested using the simple‐structure crop models and the AIC, AICc, and BIC methods for making accurate regional crop yield prediction when limited data are available for model parameters calibration.
Accelerating Analysis for Structure Design via Deep Learning Surrogate Models
Authors: Shao Minqi , Chen Jiahui , Wang Tian , Tao Fei , Du Juan , Zhang Dashun , Wang Xueqian , Tang Xingling
Published: January 2023

Using computer simulation tools such as finite element analysis (FEA) to perform material stress analysis is a common design method in engineering practice. In order to model more realistic real‐world systems, simulation models have become more complex, and calculation becomes more expensive as a result. The rise of artificial intelligence technologies has made it possible to integrate deep learning methods and material stress analysis. Herein, FEA software is employed to obtain a large number of analysis cases as training samples and uses a fully connected neural network and long‐short‐term memory neural network as surrogate models, which can predict the stress distribution and stress sequence in the process of the bullet impacting target plates with different materials. These models can give results similar to FEA with 92.19% and 92.41% accuracy, respectively. The experimental results show that the deep learning surrogate models have great potential in material stress analysis.
Active Traffic Signal Decisions Using Vector‐Matrix Multiplication
Authors: Jang Jingon , Jeon Takgyeong , Wang Gunuk
Published: January 2023

A novel methodology in the manner of vector‐matrix multiplication (VMM) architecture is suggested for intelligently determining traffic signal changes to enhance the flow of urban traffic. Unlike the conventional prediction‐based traffic model, a real‐time decision model considering the traffic density at each transport section is established, which simplifies the traffic signal decision process as a convolutional transformation. Compared with a periodically repetitive signal changing system, the suggested VMM system actively optimizes the signal configuration in an irregular shape according to the traffic density distribution, resulting in reduction in the time cost with highly improved decision efficiency. With this system based on particle dynamics, the travel time is reduced by ≈10% at the same pass ratio for different road structures (one‐way, bidirectional, and intersectional transport). The pass ratio and resulting flow dynamics can be controllable using the different transformation matrix selections according to the traffic conditions. In addition, the analog conductance of the memristor device to the transformation matrix elements is applied, maintaining its reduction rate with a deviation tolerance of the VMM process up to ≈50%. It is believed that VMM‐based signal decision platform can lead to great progress for fast and efficient transport in complex urban traffic networks.
Humidity‐Driven High‐Performance Electrothermal Actuation of Vertically Stacked 2D PtTe2 Layers/Cellulose Nanofibers
Authors: Yoo Changhyeon , Han Sang Sub , Okogbue Emmanuel , Bae Tae-Sung , Jang Jae Hyuck , Cao Justin , Chung Hee-Suk , Jung Yeonwoong
Published: January 2023

A new type of soft actuators based on a vertical stack of nanoporous 2,2,6,6‐tetramethylpiperidine‐1‐oxyl‐oxidized cellulose nanofibers (TOCNs) and atomically thin 2D platinum ditelluride (PtTe2) layers is reported. The actuation of TOCNs is driven by the interfacing 2D PtTe2 layers whose electrothermal proficiency precisely controls their hydration/dehydration states sensitive to mechanical deformation. These vertically stacked TOCN/2D PtTe2 actuators present excellent actuation characteristics such as high linearity of bending curvature versus applied voltage and well‐preserved reversibility during cyclic operations. Most notably, they exhibit an extremely large weight‐lifting ratio, i.e., ≈1000 times the mass of the TOCN layers, confirming superior mechanical robustness. Furthermore, complicated actuations such as twisting in a 3D manner are demonstrated by judiciously controlling the surface wettability of TOCN layers. This study unveils opportunities for CNFs and 2D materials for actuator applications, as well as suggests new design strategies broadly applicable to soft robotics and biomimetic devices.
A Signal Segmentation‐Free Model for Electrocardiogram‐Based Obstructive Sleep Apnea Severity Classification
Authors: Chen Jeng-Wen , Lin Shih-Tsang , Wang Cheng-Yi , Lin Chun-Cheng , Hsu Kuan-Chun , Yeh Cheng-Yu , Hwang Shaw-Hwa
Published: January 2023

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) has been a common sleep disorder for years, and polysomnography (PSG) remains the gold standard for diagnosing OSA. Nevertheless, PSG is a time and money consuming test, and patients have to wait long for arranging a PSG test in a hospital. In light of this, portable and wearable tools for OSA classification have been developed recently as a low‐cost and easy‐to‐use screening method before undergoing PSG. Using unsegmented electrocardiogram (ECG) signals, a deep neural network (DNN)‐based model is developed here to categorize OSA severity with the following features. First, the model takes unsegmented ECG signals recorded overnight as input, and then generates a four‐level scale as output. Since all the input ECG signals are unsegmented, the tremendous amount of effort spent on signal annotation can be fully saved. Second, the largest amount of data is used to test the model and consequently provide a high generalization ability, as compared with others in the literature. The overall outperformance of this work is highlighted at the end of this article, and this work is validated as an easy‐to‐use and effective screening tool for OSA accordingly.
Linking the proximal tibiofibular joint to hominid locomotion: A morphometric study of extant species
Authors: Pietrobelli Annalisa , Sorrentino Rita , Benazzi Stefano , Belcastro Maria Giovanna , Marchi Damiano
Published: January 2023

Objectives

We perform a comparative assessment of shape variation of the proximal fibula in extant humans and great apes, intending to investigate the possible link between proximal fibular shape and locomotor patterns.

Methods

Our sample includes 94 fibulae of 37 Homo sapiens, 15 Gorilla, 17 Pongo, and 25 Pan. Fibular morphology was investigated through three‐dimensional (semi)landmark‐based geometric morphometric methods.

Results

We found unique features of the human fibular head compared to that of great apes (i.e., oblique articular surface, the presence of the styloid process, specific morphology of muscle attachment sites), supporting the functional role of this bone in relation to human obligate bipedalism. Great apes also showed distinctive traits in their proximal fibula morphology, in agreement with differences in locomotor behavior.

Conclusion

The morphology of the proximal fibula in extant humans and great apes is indicative of locomotor behavior, offering the potential for the comparative analysis of fossil hominin remains.
Anatomical distribution of endometriosis: A cross‐sectional analysis of transvaginal ultrasound in symptomatic patients
Authors: Manieri Rocha Rodrigo , Leonardi Mathew , Eathorne Allie , Armour Mike , Condous George
Published: January 2023

Purpose

The anatomical distribution of deep endometriosis (DE) is essential in treating patients with symptoms associated with the disease. There is an evidence gap in correlating clinical features and symptoms with disease patterns. The study aimed at determining DE anatomic distribution based on advanced transvaginal ultrasound and describe the relationship with symptoms obtained with the World Endometriosis Foundation Questionnaire.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study included 549 ultrasound results and 370 questionnaire responses between July 2018 and January 2021. Descriptive statistics are presented. Continuous variables were compared by a simple t‐test and ANOVA and categorical variables by the chi‐squared test. Logistic regression and R2 values summarised the relationship between positive ultrasound and possible predictor variables (software SAS version 9.4).

Results

The anatomical locations with signs of endometriosis on ultrasound were the right uterosacral ligament (USL) 23.3% (n = 128), left USL 21.3% (n = 117) and bowel 19.1% (n = 105). Endometriomas in the right and left ovaries (14%, n = 77, and 14.7%, n = 81 respectively), superficial endometriosis in 15.5% (n = 85), torus uterinus in 11.7% (n = 64), Pouch of Douglas (POD) in 9.7% (n = 53), rectovaginal septum in 4.2% (n = 23), vaginal fornix in 3.5% (n = 19). A negative ‘sliding‐sign’ was noted in 25.3% (n = 139), and ovarian medial immobility was noted frequently (left 20.2%, n = 111 and right 16.9%, n = 93). Dyspareunia, dysmenorrhoea, infertility and family history were associated with endometriosis lesions (P < 0.05). Prediction models based on symptomatology presented low discriminatory power.

Discussion

This large real‐life cohort associating the description of the anatomical distribution of endometriosis as seen on advanced TVS in symptomatic patients confirmed that uterosacral ligaments, torus uterinus, ovaries and bowel represent the most common anatomical sites of endometriosis. Also, the dynamic abnormalities elicited via ultrasound, such as the uterus ‘sliding‐sign’ and ovarian mobility, remain common. The knowledge of the general locations of identifiable endometriosis on ultrasound and the dynamic abnormalities is essential to sonologists and sonographers in implementing advanced TVS protocols to detect endometriosis. In addition, the different presentations of dyspareunia can be associated with USL and bowel endometriosis. Subfertility might also be associated with USL, ovarian and bowel endometriosis. Nevertheless, prediction models showed suboptimal results.

Conclusions

Endometriosis is mainly distributed in USLs, bowel and ovaries. POD obliteration is frequent. Symptoms can be associated with anatomic locations; however, prediction models showed low clinical applicability.
Synthesis of a novel biodegradable curing agent modified by castor oil for polyacrylate adhesive applications
Authors: Cai Yangben , Chen Guofei , Yu Zhujun , Lu Jianxian , Fang Xingzhong
Published: January 2023

A novel functional carbamate oligomer with high curing activity was prepared by addition polymerization using diisocyanate and castor oil (CO) and used as curing agent for polyacrylate adhesive. The influence factors of such modified castor oil (mCO) preparation, including monomer type, NCO/OH group mole ratio, reaction temperature and time, were explored. When the CO was reacted with hexamethylene diisocyanate among the NCO/OH group mole ratio of 0.56–0.75 at 75°C for 4 h, the NCO value of mCO could be in the range between 0.10 and 0.20 mmol/g. At this point, the peel adhesion and the tack of the adhesive with mCO in the mass ratio of 1/1 can be above 2.3 N/cm and 23#, respectively. In addition, the influence of rosin resin content, polyacrylate content, and the active equivalent of mCO on the properties of adhesive tape was studied in detail. When the pressure sensitive adhesive is prepared by 50% polyacrylate, 25% mCO and 25% rosin resin, the peel adhesion and the tack can reach 4.63 N/cm and 23#. The relative biodegradation rate of cured adhesive with 25% of mCO and 25% of rosin resin is 47.56% after 45 days, with an increase of 80.95% compared to that of pure adhesive. The highly biodegradable mCO endows the adhesive tape with better mechanical property and biodegradability, thus making it a promising adhesive tape for packing applications.
Double valve replacement in a case of Hedinger syndrome
Authors: Pathare Presheet , Weyand Michael , Heim Christian
Published: January 2023

Hedinger Syndrome or carcinoid heart disease is a rare cardiac complication of neuroendocrine tumors (NET) affecting the tricuspid and pulmonary valves. Following is a case description of a patient undergoing treatment for a neuroendocrine tumor with liver metastasis, referred with symptomatic tricuspid valve regurgitation and pulmonary valve stenosis for surgical valve replacement. Planned surgical valve replacement was successfully performed before the onset of severe right ventricular failure or pulmonary hypertension in this case of carcinoid heart disease. An interdisciplinary approach and regular follow up is recommended in such cases.
Landscape of DNA damage response gene alterations in breast cancer: A comprehensive investigation
Authors: Jin Juan , Cao Jianing , Li Bin , Li Ting , Zhang Jian , Cao Jun , Zhao Mingchun , Wang Leiping , Wang Biyun , Tao Zhonghua , Hu Xichun
Published: January 2023

Background

DNA damage response (DDR) gene alterations are prevalent in breast cancer (BC) and important for treatment decisions. Intensive studies on DDR alterations in BC are still needed.

Methods

The authors included 438 patients with metastatic breast cancer from their next‐generation sequencing database and 1091 patients with early‐stage breast cancer from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database in the analysis to characterize molecular alterations in the DDR pathway.

Results

Germline DDR mutations were more prevalent in younger patients and those with HER2‐negative cancers. Tumors with germline DDR mutations more commonly had somatic DDR mutations, especially those with germline Fanconi anemia (FA) pathway mutations. Notably, 66.67% (four of six) of patients with germline PALB2 mutations had tumors that harbored somatic PALB2 mutations. No differences in prognosis were observed in patients with germline or tumor somatic DDR mutations compared to patients and tumors that were wild‐type. Compared to early BC, the frequency of somatic DDR mutations in metastatic cancers was significantly higher (24.89% vs. 16.02%, p < .001). Higher tumor mutation burdens were observed in cancers with somatic DDR mutations, but not in cancers with germline DDR mutations. Furthermore, tumors with somatic DDR mutations showed an abundance of anticancer immunological phenotypes. Somatic FA and mismatch repair pathway mutations were associated with increased expression of immune checkpoint molecules. Although most DDR genes were significantly positively associated with expression of proliferation‐related genes, PARP3 expression was negatively correlated with MKI67 expression. Lower PARP3 expression was associated with a worse prognosis in TCGA database by multivariate Cox analysis.

Conclusions

Patients with germline FA mutations more frequently have tumors with somatic DDR mutations. Somatic DDR mutations lead to anticancer immunological phenotypes in BC. No differences in prognosis according to germline or somatic DDR mutations were found.
A deep and wide neural network to predict summer monsoon rainfall using time series data
Authors: Bajpai Vikas , Bansal Anukriti , Dash Subrat
Published: January 2023

The importance of monsoon rainfall cannot be ignored as it affects round‐the‐year activities ranging from agricultural to industrial. Due to the nonlinear and dynamic nature of monsoon rainfall, its accurate forecast becomes a challenging task. In this paper, we propose a novel deep and wide neural network model to predict summer monsoon rainfall using historical time‐series data of 118 years. We have considered Rajasthan as our area of study, which is the largest state of India with varying atmospheric regions. Two different types of datasets are used: gridded rainfall dataset from the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) and station rainfall data from Water Resources Department (WRD). Results obtained on both the datasets demonstrate that a single model works well in efficiently predicting summer monsoon rainfall in different geographical regions of Rajasthan, ranging from plains and plateaus to deserts and hills. We compare the results with various advanced deep learning algorithms such as 1‐dimensional convolutional neural network, long short term memory, and multilayer perceptron. The comparison results show that the proposed method clearly outperforms these algorithms in terms of its forecasting ability, which is evaluated using root mean square error and mean absolute error.
Estimating neural activity from visual areas using functionally defined EEG templates
Authors: Poncet Marlene , Ales Justin M.
Published: January 2023

Electroencephalography (EEG) is a common and inexpensive method to record neural activity in humans. However, it lacks spatial resolution making it difficult to determine which areas of the brain are responsible for the observed EEG response. Here we present a new easy‐to‐use method that relies on EEG topographical templates. Using MRI and fMRI scans of 50 participants, we simulated how the activity in each visual area appears on the scalp and averaged this signal to produce functionally defined EEG templates. Once created, these templates can be used to estimate how much each visual area contributes to the observed EEG activity. We tested this method on extensive simulations and on real data. The proposed procedure is as good as bespoke individual source localization methods, robust to a wide range of factors, and has several strengths. First, because it does not rely on individual brain scans, it is inexpensive and can be used on any EEG data set, past or present. Second, the results are readily interpretable in terms of functional brain regions and can be compared across neuroimaging techniques. Finally, this method is easy to understand, simple to use and expandable to other brain sources.