bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Zebrafish Models for Skeletal and Extraskeletal Osteogenesis Imperfecta Features: Unveiling Pathophysiology and Paving the Way for Drug Discovery
Authors: Masiero Cecilia , Aresi Carla , Forlino Antonella , Tonelli Francesca
Published: September 2024

In the last decades, the easy genetic manipulation, the external fertilization, the high percentage of homology with human genes and the reduced husbandry costs compared to rodents, made zebrafish a valid model for studying human diseases and for developing new therapeutical strategies. Since zebrafish shares with mammals the same bone cells and ossification types, it became widely used to dissect mechanisms and possible new therapeutic approaches in the field of common and rare bone diseases, such as osteoporosis and osteogenesis imperfecta (OI), respectively. OI is a heritable skeletal disorder caused by defects in gene encoding collagen I or proteins/enzymes necessary for collagen I synthesis and secretion. Nevertheless, OI patients can be also characterized by extraskeletal manifestations such as dentinogenesis imperfecta, muscle weakness, cardiac valve and pulmonary abnormalities and skin laxity. In this review, we provide an overview of the available zebrafish models for both dominant and recessive forms of OI. An updated description of all the main similarities and differences between zebrafish and mammal skeleton, muscle, heart and skin, will be also discussed. Finally, a list of high- and low-throughput techniques available to exploit both larvae and adult OI zebrafish models as unique tools for the discovery of new therapeutic approaches will be presented.
High patient satisfaction with Customized Total Knee Arthroplasty at five year follow-up
Authors: Schippers Philipp , Wunderlich Felix , Afghanyar Yama , Buschmann Victoria , Klonschinski Thomas , Drees Philipp , Eckhard Lukas
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Despite numerous studies demonstrating promising short-term outcomes of Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA) with Customized Individually Made (CIM) implants, there is a significant lack of data on their mid-term effectiveness. Given the increasing number of TKAs performed annually, the rising demand for CIM implants, and the associated burden of revision surgeries, understanding the mid-term performance of CIM implants is crucial. Therefore, this study aims to report on the mid-term (minimum 5 years) outcomes of TKA using a CIM implant.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study included a consecutive series of 116 patients who received the ConforMIS® iTotal CR implant between 2015 and 2018. Inclusion criteria were end-stage knee osteoarthritis with coronal deformities below 10° and absence of ligamentous instability. Exclusion criteria included simultaneous bilateral TKA. Patients were followed up at a minimum of five years post-surgery. They completed a questionnaire reporting on satisfaction, pain levels using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), current weight, the Oxford Knee Score (OKS), and the Forgotten Joint Score for the knee (FJS-knee). Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics for demographic and clinical variables, and outcomes were reported as means with ranges.

Results

The mean follow-up duration was 5.9 ± 0.8 years (range 5–7.4 years). 90% of patients stated they would undergo the same operation again, and 93% were either satisfied or very satisfied. The mean VAS for pain at rest was 2 ± 1.5 (range 0–6) and during exercise was 3 ± 2 (range 0–8). 58 patients (53%) managed to lose weight. The mean OKS was 41 ± 9 points (range 15–48), and the mean FJS-knee was 67 ± 23 points (range 4–100). No severe complications occurred.

Conclusion

CIM TKA using the ConforMIS® iTotal CR implant can achieve excellent results with 93% of patients being satisfied or very satisfied at mid-term follow-up of five years. Prospective, randomized, and patient-blinded trials comparing off-the-shelf (OTS) TKAs with CIM implants are necessary to evaluate whether these implants are superior or not.
Interannual variability in potential impacts of upper ocean salinity on sea surface cooling induced by tropical cyclones in the northwestern Pacific
Authors: Miyagi Rintaro , Tozuka Tomoki
Published: September 2024

Using a new measure that relates tropical cyclone (TC)-induced sea surface cooling with the strength of TCs, interannual variations in potential impacts of the upper ocean stratification on TC-induced sea surface cooling associated with the evolution of El Niño/Southern Oscillation (ENSO) are investigated in the northwestern Pacific using an ocean reanalysis product, with a special focus on haline effects. It is found that the haline stratification could suppress the sea surface cooling by as much as 20% to the south of 20°N in the peak typhoon season (July-October), and this contribution is different between their developing years (September-October) and decaying years (July-August). More specifically, the haline effects may vary up to 25% (40%) during the decaying years of El Niño (La Niña). Due to anomalous haline effects, the region to the west of 160°E is susceptible to the sea surface cooling during the developing and decaying years of El Niño, while the cooling could be suppressed in this region during the decaying years of La Niña. Although the effects of haline stratification have been found less important than those of thermal stratification, potential impacts of the upper ocean salinity on TC-induced sea surface cooling associated with the ENSO have been quantitatively estimated for the first time. Since the main focus of this paper is to present the new measure and discuss potential impacts of the upper ocean salinity stratification, further verifications need to be conducted once more observational data is accumulated or through numerical simulations.
Environmental study and stress-related biomarkers modifications in a crew during analog astronaut mission EMMPOL 6
Authors: Giacon T. A. , Mrakic-Sposta Simona , Bosco G. , Vezzoli A. , Dellanoce Cinzia , Campisi M. , Narici M. , Paganini M. , Foing B. , Kołodziejczyk A. , Martinelli M. , Pavanello S.
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Human presence in space is increasingly frequent, but we must not forget that it is a hostile environment. We aimed to study the characteristics of experimental scenarios, to obtain data on human response to isolation, disruption of circadian rhythm and high levels of psychophysical stress.

Methods

In these experiments, we evaluated stress response in five young healthy subjects inside an earth-based moon-settlement-like habitat during a 1-week long analog astronaut mission. Wearable devices were used to monitor daily step count of the subjects, physical activity, heart rate during physical exercise and at rest, and sleep parameters. From saliva and urine samples collected every day at awakening, we studied oxy-inflammation biomarkers and hormones (stress and appetite) were studied too.

Results

At the end of the week, all subjects revealed an increase in oxidative stress and cortisol levels but no inflammation biomarkers variations, in conjunction with increasing time/daily exercise. Furthermore, a significant decrease in hours of sleep/day, sleep quality, and REM phase of sleep was recorded and correlated with the increase of reactive oxygen species.

Conclusion

Oxidative stress increased in a short period of time and may be attributed to the influence of psychological stress during confinement, as well as increased exercise and decreased amount of sleep. On a long-term basis, this could impact performance.
Biliary drainage in patients with malignant distal biliary obstruction: results of an Italian consensus conference
Authors: Marzioni Marco , Crinò Stefano Francesco , Lisotti Andrea , Fuccio Lorenzo , Vanella Giuseppe , Amato Arnaldo , Bertani Helga , Binda Cecilia , Coluccio Chiara , Forti Edoardo , Fugazza Alessandro , Ligresti Dario , Maida Marcello , Marchegiani Giovanni , Mauro Aurelio , Mirante Vincenzo Giorgio , Ricci Claudio , Rizzo Giacomo Emanuele Maria , Scimeca Daniela , Spadaccini Marco , Arvanitakis Marianna , Anderloni Andrea , Fabbri Carlo , Tarantino Ilaria , Arcidiacono Paolo Giorgio ,   i-EUS Group
Published: September 2024

Background

Malignant Distal Biliary Obstruction (MBDO) is a common event occurring along the natural history of both pancreatic cancer and cholangiocarcinoma. Epidemiological and biological features make MBDO one of the key elements of the clinical management of patients suffering for of pancreatic cancer or cholangiocarcinoma. The development of dedicated biliary lumen-apposing metal stents (LAMS) is changing the clinical work up of patients with MBDO. i-EUS is an Italian network of clinicians and scientists with a special interest in biliopancreatic endoscopy, EUS in particular.

Methods

The scientific methodology was chosen in line with international guidance and in a fashion similar to those applied by broader scientific associations. PICO questions were elaborated and subsequently voted by a broad panel of experts within a simplified Delphi process.

Results and conclusions

The manuscripts describes the results of a consensus conference organized by i-EUS with the aim of providing an evidence based-guidance for the appropriate use of the techniques in patients with MBDO.
Taste alterations after hematopoietic cell transplantation: a scoping review
Authors: Dequae Caroline G. R. , Raber-Durlacher Judith E. , Epstein Joel B. , de Vries Ralph , Laheij Alexa M. G. A.
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This review aimed to evaluate the prevalence and characteristics of dysgeusia after hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT).

Methods

A literature search (in PubMed, Embase.com and Web of Science) for clinical studies evaluating taste before and after HCT was performed up to June 22, 2023, in collaboration with a medical information specialist. After title and abstract review (N = 807) followed by full-text review (N = 61), articles that met the inclusion criteria were summarized in a table and synthesized narratively.

Results

11 articles were analyzed in this review. All studies had a prospective design and patient populations included children (N = 3) and adults (N = 8) undergoing allogeneic or autologous HCT. Taste was assessed objectively (N = 6) and/or subjectively (N = 8) between baseline and 12 months after HCT. Before HCT, the self-reported (0–31%) and objective (2.4–10%) prevalence of dysgeusia was low. During the neutropenic phase, self-reported (20–100%) and objective (21.4%) dysgeusia was highest. In the post-engraftment period, the self-reported (18%) and objective (0–33%) prevalence of dysgeusia decreased. Different taste qualities were assessed in six studies including salt, sour, bitter, sweet, and umami.

Conclusions

Some patients undergoing HCT experience dysgeusia prior to treatment. During the neutropenic phase, they had highest complaints, with recovery occurring in the post-engraftment period. All basic tastes, except bitter, were affected. Umami and salt were most affected during treatment. These findings have implications for patient management.
Fracturing Processes in Specimens with Internal vs. Throughgoing Flaws: An Experimental Study Using 3D Printed Materials
Authors: Almubarak Majed , Germaine John T. , Einstein Herbert H.
Published: September 2024

The fracturing behavior and associated mechanical characterization of rocks are important for many applications in the fields of civil, mining, geothermal, and petroleum engineering. Laboratory testing of rocks plays a major role in understanding the underlying processes that occur on the larger scale and for predicting rock behavior. Fracturing research requires well-defined and consistent boundary conditions. Consequently, the testing design and setup can greatly influence the results. In this study, a comprehensive experimental program using an artificial material was carried out to systematically evaluate the effects of different parameters in rock testing under uniaxial compression. The parameters include compression platen type, specimen centering, loading control method, boundary constraints, and flaw parameters. The results show that these testing conditions have a significant effect on the mechanical behavior of rocks. Using a fixed compression platen helped reduce bulging of the material. Centering of the specimen played a critical role to avoid buckling and unequal distribution of stress. Slower displacement rates can control the energy being released once failure occurs to prevent the specimen from exploding. Also, the frictional end effects were investigated by comparing friction-reduced and non-friction-reduced end conditions. Very importantly, the study also identified variations in crack initiation and propagation between specimens with internal flaws and specimens with throughgoing flaws. This investigation showed that wing cracks appeared in specimens with throughgoing flaws, while wing cracks with petal cracks were associated with the internal flaws. It also showed that the mechanical properties are influenced by the inclination of the flaws and established that specimens with internal flaws generally exhibit higher strength compared to specimens with throughgoing flaws. The systematic analysis presented in this work sheds light on important considerations that need to be taken into account when conducting fracture research and adds knowledge to the fundamental understanding of how fractures occur in nature.
High-quality reference plastomes in Tillandsia species living at the dry limits
Authors: Kiefer Christiane , Buchmann David , Koch Marcus A.
Published: September 2024

Ongoing climate change has had severe impacts on biota worldwide, including plants and especially those with narrow ecological niches that have adapted to extreme environments for several hundred thousand of years. Several members of the genus Tillandsia are known for their ability to live at the dry limits of life in the Atacama Desert and have potential as bioindicators for climate change at the Pacific Ocean and adjacent ecosystems. However, genomic information on these plants is scarce. In this study, five complete plastid genomes of two Tillandsia species were de novo assembled at very high quality using DNA sequence data from a combination of next-generation short-read and Sanger sequencing. The newly assembled and fully annotated plastid genomes had an average length of 156,319 base-pairs with the typical highly conserved quadripartite circular structures. Gene order and content were highly conserved, with the exception of the variable gene ycf1. The newly assembled plastid genomes were placed into a broader phylogenetic context to check the quality of sequence data obtained from past approaches relying on reference-based assemblies. It is shown that earlier presented Tillandsia plastomes are either not of sufficient quality or lack any metadata. The herein presented reference plastomes will guide future research to study parallel and convergent evolution in a reliable evolutionary framework and will allow the use of plastome data with little genetic variation for population genomics studies in species such as Tillandisa landbeckii with prevailing clonal propagation.
Interactive abstract interpretation: reanalyzing multithreaded C programs for cheap
Authors: Erhard Julian , Saan Simmo , Tilscher Sarah , Schwarz Michael , Holter Karoliine , Vojdani Vesal , Seidl Helmut
Published: September 2024

To put sound program analysis at the fingertips of the software developer, we propose a framework for interactive abstract interpretation of multithreaded C code. Abstract interpretation provides sound analysis results, but can be quite costly in general. To achieve quick response times, we incrementalize the analysis infrastructure, including postprocessing, without necessitating any modifications to the analysis specifications themselves. We rely on the local generic fixpoint engine TD – which we enhance with reluctant destabilization to minimize reanalysis effort. Dedicated further improvements support precise incremental analysis of program properties that include concurrency deficiencies such as data-races. The framework has been implemented in the static analyzer Goblint, and combined with the MagpieBridge framework to relay findings to IDEs. We evaluate our implementation w.r.t. the yard sticks of response time and consistency. We also provide examples of program development highlighting the usability of our approach.
The shift–rotation absolute testing method based on autocollimation
Authors: Li Jianke , Wu Yongqian , Liu Fengwei , Tang Zhan , Quan Haiyang , Chen Xiaojun
Published: September 2024

The shift–rotation method is an absolute testing method that has attracted much attention in recent years, and detection accuracy at the subnanometer level has been achieved. However, for flat absolute calibration, the power aberration cannot be calibrated via the traditional shift–rotation absolute testing method. To solve this problem, we propose a shift–rotation absolute testing method based on autocollimation, which detects the tilt error of the tested mirror caused by the external environment and guides the adjustment of the stage to remove it. Simulations and experiments are conducted to prove this theory. A comparison with liquid experiments shows that the autocollimated shift–rotation method can achieve accurate absolute power aberration and can compensate for the shortcomings of the traditional shift–rotation method.
Multiscale computational analysis of the steady fluid flow through a lymph node
Authors: Girelli Alberto , Giantesio Giulia , Musesti Alessandro , Penta Raimondo
Published: September 2024

Lymph Nodes (LNs) are crucial to the immune and lymphatic systems, filtering harmful substances and regulating lymph transport. LNs consist of a lymphoid compartment (LC) that forms a porous bulk region, and a subcapsular sinus (SCS), which is a free-fluid region. Mathematical and mechanical challenges arise in understanding lymph flow dynamics. The highly vascularized lymph node connects the lymphatic and blood systems, emphasizing its essential role in maintaining the fluid balance in the body. In this work, we describe a mathematical model in a steady setting to describe the lymph transport in a lymph node. We couple the fluid flow in the SCS governed by an incompressible Stokes equation with the fluid flow in LC, described by a model obtained by means of asymptotic homogenisation technique, taking into account the multiscale nature of the node and the fluid exchange with the blood vessels inside it. We solve this model using numerical simulations and we analyze the lymph transport inside the node to elucidate its regulatory mechanisms and significance. Our results highlight the crucial role of the microstructure of the lymph node in regularising its fluid balance. These results can pave the way to a better understanding of the mechanisms underlying the lymph node’s multiscale functionalities which can be significantly affected by specific physiological and pathological conditions, such as those characterising malignant tissues.
A Large Language Model to Detect Negated Expressions in Radiology Reports
Authors: Su Yvonne , Babore Yonatan B. , Kahn Charles E.
Published: September 2024

Natural language processing (NLP) is crucial to extract information accurately from unstructured text to provide insights for clinical decision-making, quality improvement, and medical research. This study compared the performance of a rule-based NLP system and a medical-domain transformer-based model to detect negated concepts in radiology reports. Using a corpus of 984 de-identified radiology reports from a large U.S.-based academic health system (1000 consecutive reports, excluding 16 duplicates), the investigators compared the rule-based medspaCy system and the Clinical Assertion and Negation Classification Bidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformers (CAN-BERT) system to detect negated expressions of terms from RadLex, the Unified Medical Language System Metathesaurus, and the Radiology Gamuts Ontology. Power analysis determined a sample size of 382 terms to achieve α = 0.05 and β = 0.8 for McNemar’s test; based on an estimate of 15% negated terms, 2800 randomly selected terms were annotated manually as negated or not negated. Precision, recall, and F1 of the two models were compared using McNemar’s test. Of the 2800 terms, 387 (13.8%) were negated. For negation detection, medspaCy attained a recall of 0.795, precision of 0.356, and F1 of 0.492. CAN-BERT achieved a recall of 0.785, precision of 0.768, and F1 of 0.777. Although recall was not significantly different, CAN-BERT had significantly better precision (χ2 = 304.64; p < 0.001). The transformer-based CAN-BERT model detected negated terms in radiology reports with high precision and recall; its precision significantly exceeded that of the rule-based medspaCy system. Use of this system will improve data extraction from textual reports to support information retrieval, AI model training, and discovery of causal relationships.
Optimizing the economic dispatch of weakly-connected mini-grids under uncertainty using joint chance constraints
Authors: Ouanes Nesrine , Grandón Tatiana González , Heitsch Holger , Henrion René
Published: September 2024

In this paper, we deal with a renewable-powered mini-grid, connected to an unreliable main grid, in a Joint Chance Constrained (JCC) programming setting. In several rural areas in Africa with low energy access rates, grid-connected mini-grid system operators contend with four different types of uncertainties: forecasting errors of solar power and load; frequency and outages duration from the main-grid. These uncertainties pose new challenges to the classical power system’s operation tasks. Three alternatives to the JCC problem are presented. In particular, we present an Individual Chance Constraint (ICC), Expected-Value Model (EVM) and a so called regular model that ignores outages and forecasting uncertainties. The JCC model has the capability to guarantee a high probability of meeting the local demand throughout an outage event by keeping appropriate reserves for Diesel generation and battery discharge. In contrast, the easier to handle ICC model guarantees such probability only individually for different time steps, resulting in a much less robust dispatch. The even simpler EVM focuses solely on average values of random variables. We illustrate the four models through a comparison of outcomes attained from a real mini-grid in Lake Victoria, Tanzania. The results show the dispatch modifications for battery and Diesel reserve planning, with the JCC model providing the most robust results, albeit with a small increase in costs.
“Somebody has to be crazy about that kid”: Speculating on the transformative recordkeeping potential of the caring corporate parent
Authors: Ballin Mya
Published: September 2024

Just as archival scholarship has increasingly engaged in conversations around care and holistic considerations of the agency of records subjects, the child welfare systems of the modern Western world have been moving towards conversations that aim to centre and celebrate the voice of the child in new and important ways. However, too often are these conversations held back by the enormity of the issue and the overhaul that would have to take place for philosophy to match with practice. In this paper, I suggest that part of the problem is that we have been trying to make these changes philosophy first, placing a new way of thinking on top of an old way of doing—an approach that will never generate change. Leaning in to using speculation to imagine what the new recordkeeping of a caring system might look like, I propose that the act of recordkeeping is the fulcrum that could make caring child welfare a reality and illustrate some of the avenues through which we might pursue instigating the systemic changes needed if we are to see the agency and perspectives of children prioritised in child welfare and protection practices.
ACE2 alleviates sepsis-induced cardiomyopathy through inhibiting M1 macrophage via NF-κB/STAT1 signals
Authors: Xiao Xue , Li Jia-Xin , Li Hui-Hua , Teng Fei
Published: September 2024

Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), a crucial element of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS), metabolizes angiotensin II into Ang (1–7), which then combines with the Mas receptor (MasR) to fulfill its protective role in various diseases. Nevertheless, the involvement of ACE2 in sepsis-induced cardiomyopathy (SIC) is still unexplored. In this study, our results revealed that CLP surgery dramatically impaired cardiac function accompanied with disruption of the balance between ACE2-Ang (1–7) and ACE-Ang II axis in septic heart tissues. Moreover, ACE2 knockin markedly alleviated sepsis induced RAS disorder, cardiac dysfunction and improved survival rate in mice, while ACE2 knockout significantly exacerbates these outcomes. Adoptive transfer of bone marrow cells and in vitro experiments showed the positive role of myeloid ACE2 by mitigating oxidative stress, inflammatory response, macrophage polarization and cardiomyocyte apoptosis by blocking NF-κB and STAT1 signals. However, the beneficial impacts were nullified by MasR antagonist A779. Collectively, these findings showed that ACE2 alleviated SIC by inhibiting M1 macrophage via activating the Ang (1–7)-MasR axis, highlight that ACE2 might be a promising target for the management of sepsis and SIC patients.
Single- and Multilevel Perspectives on Covariate Selection in Randomized Intervention Studies on Student Achievement
Authors: Stallasch Sophie E. , Lüdtke Oliver , Artelt Cordula , Hedges Larry V. , Brunner Martin
Published: September 2024

Well-chosen covariates boost the design sensitivity of individually and cluster-randomized trials. We provide guidance on covariate selection generating an extensive compilation of single- and multilevel design parameters on student achievement. Embedded in psychometric heuristics, we analyzed (a) covariate types of varying bandwidth-fidelity, namely domain-identical (IP), cross-domain (CP), and fluid intelligence (Gf) pretests, as well as sociodemographic characteristics (SC); (b) covariate combinations quantifying incremental validities of CP, Gf, and/or SC beyond IP; and (c) covariate time lags of 1–7 years, testing validity degradation in IP, CP, and Gf. Estimates from six German samples (1868 ≤ N ≤ 10,543) covering various outcome domains across grades 1–12 were meta-analyzed and included in precision simulations. Results varied widely by grade level, domain, and hierarchical level. In general, IP outperformed CP, which slightly outperformed Gf and SC. Benefits from coupling IP with CP, Gf, and/or SC were small. IP appeared most affected by temporal validity decay. Findings are applied in illustrative scenarios of study planning and enriched by comprehensive Online Supplemental Material (OSM) accessible via the Open Science Framework (OSF; https://osf.io/nhx4w).
De-Hydration and Remodeling of Biological Materials: Swelling Theory for Multi-Domain Bodies
Authors: Curatolo Michele , van der Sman R. G. M. , Teresi Luciano
Published: September 2024

Biological materials always exhibit heterogeneous physical properties, both mechanical and chemical, which give them a rich phenomenology that poses significant challenges in the developing of effective models. The Flory–Rehner theory revolutionized our understanding of the dynamics of the liquid-polymers coupling in soft swollen gels, recognizing polymers as elastic networks stretched by the presence of liquid. Despite its foundational role, applying this theory to bodies with non uniform physical properties requires further improvements. This article proposes a unified approach to address mechano-diffusion challenges in multi-domain bodies, that is in material bodies made of regions having different chemo-mechanical properties, and focuses on the dehydration and remodeling of biological-like materials. Drawing inspiration from natural systems, we integrate principles from nonlinear mechanics and swelling theories; in particular, what is specifically new is the idea of applying the notion of the multiplicative decomposition of the strain–developed for plasticity–to model the swelling properties of a body made of two or more materials. The article gives a systematic presentation of the subject, and guides readers through key concepts and practical insights, aiming to provide a robust framework for modeling chemo-mechanical interactions. Moreover, it paves the way for the modeling of heterogenous bodies having spatially-varying properties.
Comparative Analysis of Foundation Systems in Expansive Soil: A Three-Dimensional Model Approach to Moisture Diffusion and Volume Changes
Authors: Alnmr Ammar , Ray Richard , Alzawi Mounzer Omran
Published: September 2024

This study compares the performance of various foundation systems in expansive soils, such as mats, granular anchor piles, and concrete piles. Expansive soils experience volumetric changes due to moisture fluctuations, which can lead to structural damage. Abaqus software, in conjunction with the SCV approach, is used to analyze soil-foundation interactions. A custom subroutine enhances simulation accuracy by incorporating empirical data on unsaturated clay behavior, matric suction, and variations in effective stress. The method’s accuracy is validated by comparing simulation results to field and laboratory experiments. The findings indicate that increasing the applied load on mats decreases overall heave but increases the differential heave. Additionally, higher soil permeability dereases the differential heave of mats. Granular anchor piles outperform concrete piles by more than 50% in highly expansive soils, suggesting a preference for these foundations. This study provides insights into the behavior of expansive soils, which will assist engineers in designing resilient foundation systems for structures.
A DLTS analysis of alpha particle irradiated commercial 4H-SiC Schottky barrier diodes
Authors: Ahmed Mustafa A. M. , Auret F. D. , Nel J. M. , Venter Andrè
Published: September 2024

4H-SiC Schottky barrier diodes (SBDs) were exposed to 5.4 MeV alpha particles with fluences of 2.55× 1011 cm−2, 5.11 × 1011 cm−2 and 7.67 × 1011 cm−2, respectively. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) was used to determine the structure and cross-sectional elemental composition of the device, while current–voltage and capacitance–voltage profiling were used to determine the primary electrical device-characteristics before and after irradiation. EDS revealed the presence of a <1 μm Ti layer, covered by 5 μm Al layer, in intimate contact with the SiC. Deep level transient spectroscopy (DLTS), performed in the temperature range 15–310 K, revealed one dominant peak around 50 K (Ec - 0.07 eV) in the unirradiated samples. This peak showed asymmetry suggesting that it may consist of more than one defect. Notably, Z1/2, the carbon vacancy-related (Vc) defect commonly observed in as-grown n-type 4H-SiC, was not detected in the unirradiated reference sample. After irradiation, a broad peak emerged around 280 K (at 80 Hz), most likely Z1/2, having a shoulder around 180 K, was detected. Increasing the fluence resulted in a corresponding decrease in the concentration of the electron trap observed around 50 K (Ec - 0.07 eV), while the concentration increases for the defect detected around 280 K. Notably, the concentration of Z1/2 was found to be strongly fluence dependent and linked to what we believe is a related to a silicon vacancy transition, labelled S1/2 in literature. Laplace DLTS confirmed that the peak observed around 50 K is composed of multiple defects.
Longitudinal Associations of (Un)popularity with Weight Perceptions and Dieting in Adolescence
Authors: Swinkels Aafke , van den Broek Nina , Cillessen Antonius H. N.
Published: September 2024

Little is known about the unique effects of (un)popularity on body image and the characteristics influencing these effects. The goals of this study were to examine (1) the longitudinal associations of adolescents’ (un)popularity with weight perception and dieting, (2) whether (dis)liking, self-esteem, and gender moderated these associations. Participants were 1697 Dutch adolescents (M
age = 14.18 years, SD = 1.29; 51% female), from a middle-class population. Participants completed peer nominations and self-reports in three consecutive school years. Mixed-effects models showed that (un)popularity did not predict weight perception and dieting over time. Concurrently, when liking was low, popularity predicted positive weight perception. Higher popularity predicted more dieting in females. This study highlighted that adolescents’ body image varied in subgroups of social status.
The Inherent Normativity of Concepts
Authors: So Wing Yi , Friston Karl J. , Neacsu Victorita
Published: September 2024

Concept normativity is a prominent subject of inquiry in the philosophical literature on the nature of concepts. Concepts are said to be normative, in that the use of concepts to categorise is associated with an evaluation of the appropriateness of such categorisation measured against some objective external standard. Two broad groups of views have emerged in accounting for the normativity of concepts: a weaker view traces such normativity to the social practice in which the agent using the concept is embedded, while a stronger view traces such normativity to a first-person capacity of reflection. However, both views have drawbacks: the weaker view seems not to do justice to the basic sense of normativity associated with an individual agent using a concept, while the stronger view ties such normativity with the first-person conscious evaluation, which appears to be too strong. Here, we propose a different view of concepts using principles from the Active Inference framework. We reconceive concepts, defining them as Bayesian beliefs—that is, conditional probability distributions—that represent causes and contingencies in the world, their form grounded in the exchange between the agent and its environment. This allows us to present a different view on the source of normativity, with an emphasis on the structure of the agent itself as well as its interaction with the environment. On the Active Inference view, concepts are normative in that they are intrinsically connected to the self-evidencing nature of an agent, whose very structure implies an evaluation of the concepts it employs.
Real or virtual: a video conferencing background manipulation-detection system
Authors: Nowroozi Ehsan , Mekdad Yassine , Conti Mauro , Milani Simone , Uluagac Selcuk
Published: September 2024

In the past few years, the popularity and wide use of video conferencing software enjoyed exponential growth in market size. This technology enables participants in different geographic regions to have a virtual face-to-face meeting. Additionally, it allows participants to utilize virtual backgrounds to hide their real environment with privacy concerns or to reduce distractions, particularly in professional settings. In scenarios where the users should not hide their actual locations, they may mislead other participants into assuming that the displayed virtual backgrounds are real. In this paper, we propose a new publicly-available dataset of virtual and real backgrounds in video conferencing software (e.g., Zoom, Google Meet, Microsoft Teams). The presented archive was evaluated by an exhaustive series of tests and scenarios using two well-known features extraction methods: CRSPAM1372 and six co-mat. The first verification scenario considers the case where the detector is unaware of manipulated frames (i.e., the forensically-edited frames are not part of the training set). A model trained on zoom frames that were tested with Google Meet frames can detect real background images from virtual ones in video conferencing software with 99.80% detection accuracy. Furthermore, it is possible to distinguish virtual from real backgrounds in videos created for videoconferencing software at a high detection rate of approximately 99.80%. According to our conclusions, the proposed method greatly enhanced the detection accuracy and resistance against diverse adversarial conditions, making it a reliable technique for classifying actual as opposed to virtual backgrounds in video communications. Given the described dataset provided and some preliminary experiments that we performed, we expect that it will lead to more future research in this domain.
Group Consciousness, Organizational Membership, and District Choice: Evidence from the Afro-Colombian Reserved Seats
Authors: Villamizar-Chaparro Mateo , Echeverri-Pineda Cristina
Published: September 2024

Numerous countries around the globe have undertaken efforts aimed at enhancing political representation. One of these efforts has taken the institutional form of reserved seats or ethnic districts where individuals must choose where to deposit their votes. In this paper, we ask if group consciousness and organizational membership affect the choice to vote on these types of districts. Using a mixed-methods approach by combining semi-structured interviews with elites and a subgroup analysis of a conjoint experiment in a sample of Afro-Colombians, we find evidence that group consciousness affects the preferences for ethnic districts over territorial ones. Contrary to initial expectations, we observe that membership in ethnic organizations does not significantly alter preferences for ethnic districts among surveyed individuals. These findings indicate that individuals with high levels of group consciousness tend to choose to participate more in mechanisms and institutions that can enhance the group’s political representation.
Phases of Progression: Students’ meaning-making of Epigenetic Visual Representations within and between Levels of Organization
Authors: Thyberg Annika , Schönborn Konrad , Gericke Niklas
Published: September 2024

This study investigates the progression of students’ meaning-making of epigenetic phenomena while discussing multiple visual representations depicted at different levels of biological organization. Semi-structured focus group sessions involving ninth-grade students (aged 15-16) from a Swedish lower secondary school were video recorded. Students’ meaning-making with regard to form, function and transfer of scientific ideas was explored by analyzing students’ physical pointing and verbal utterances while interacting with and discussing the epigenetic visual representations. The study uncovered four phases of progression in students’ meaning-making. In phase 1, students’ focus is on unpacking scientific ideas within a single representation. In phase 2, students apply and transfer scientific ideas between different visual representations at the same organizational level. In phase 3, their meaning-making develops into linking between various levels of organization. Here, downward linking, from higher to lower levels, relies on form descriptions that limit the transfer of scientific ideas. In contrast, upward linking, from lower to higher organizational levels, relies on both descriptions of form and functional explanations, which facilitates the transfer of scientific ideas. Finally, in Phase 4, and manifested as “yo-yo reasoning”, students engage in a dynamic and repeated process of downward and upward linking that expresses a coherent understanding of epigenetics. The study findings underscore the significance of recognizing progression phases in facilitating students’ meaning-making of multiple representations of epigenetic phenomena. Future research could expand on these insights by investigating students’ meaning-making across other science education domains.
Latitudinal Dependence of Variations in the Frequencies of Solar Oscillations Above the Acoustic Cut-Off
Authors: Millson Laura Jade , Broomhall Anne-Marie , Mehta Tishtrya
Published: September 2024

At high frequencies beyond the acoustic cut-off, a peak-like structure is visible in the solar power spectrum. Known as the pseudo-modes, their frequencies have been shown to vary in anti-phase with solar magnetic activity. In this work, we determined temporal variations in these frequencies across the solar disc, with the aim of identifying any potential latitudinal dependence of pseudo-mode frequency shifts. We utilised nearly 22 years of spatially resolved GONG data for all azimuthal orders, $\textit{m}$
m
, for harmonic degrees $0\leq l\leq 200$
0
≤
l
≤
200
, and determined shifts using the resampled periodogram method. Periodogram realisations were created from overlapping, successive 216 day-long segments in time, and cropped to 5600 – 6800 μHz. Cross-correlation functions were then repeatedly generated between these realisations to identify any variation in frequency and the uncertainty. We categorised each mode by its latitudinal sensitivity and used this categorisation to produce average frequency shifts for different latitude bands (15∘ and 5∘ in size) which were compared to magnetic proxies, the $F_{\mathrm{10.7}}$

F
10.7

index and GONG synoptic maps. Morphological differences in the pseudo-mode shifts between different latitudes were found, which were most pronounced during the rise to solar maximum where shifts reach their minimum values. At all latitudes, shift behaviour was strongly in anti-correlation with the activity proxy. Additionally, periodicities shorter than the 11-year cycle were observed. Wavelet analysis was used to identify a periodicity of four years at all latitudes.
Developing a Risk Management Framework for Agricultural Water Systems Using Fuzzy Dynamic Bayesian Networks and Decision-Making Models
Authors: Bozorgi Atiyeh , Roozbahani Abbas , Hashemy Shahdany Seied Mehdy , Abbassi Rouzbeh
Published: September 2024

Given the various natural and human-caused hazards that threaten the agricultural water distribution process from the main source to farms, establishing a framework to analyze these risks is crucial. This study aims to develop an intelligent risk management framework to help stakeholders devise long-term and sustainable solutions for managing agricultural water systems. First, we developed a Fuzzy Dynamic Bayesian Network (FDBN) model for multi-hazard risk assessment, taking into account the temporal causal interactions between parameters and incorporating fuzzy theory. Next, we defined several risk management scenarios across structural, non-structural, automated control, and integrated methods. These scenarios were implemented in the FDBN model to mitigate the risks associated with the system. Various economic, social, environmental, and technical criteria were considered, and scenarios were ranked using the WASPAS, TOPSIS, and MultiMoora methods. The Copeland approach was used to combine the ranking results. The results showed that automated scenarios, specifically Model Predictive Control (MPC) and Proportional-Integral (PI) controllers, could reduce the system's risk by 11.4% and 9.8%, respectively, and were ranked the highest. The findings of this study and the proposed framework can assist operators in the sustainable planning and management of water systems in light of anticipated threats.
Advancing Reservoir Water Level Predictions: Evaluating Conventional, Ensemble and Integrated Swarm Machine Learning Approaches
Authors: Rehamnia Issam , Mahdavi-Meymand Amin
Published: September 2024

Accurate estimation of reservoir water level fluctuation (WLF) is crucial for effective dam operation and environmental management. In this study, seven machine learning (ML) models, including conventional, integrated swarm, and ensemble learning methods, were employed to estimate daily reservoir WLF. The models comprise multi-linear regression (MLR), shallow neural network (SNN), deep neural network (DNN), support vector regression (SVR) integrated with homonuclear molecules optimization (HMO) and particle swarm optimization (PSO) meta-heuristic algorithms, classification and regression tree (CART), and random forest (RF). These models were trained and evaluated using in situ data from three embankment dams in Algeria: the Kramis dam, the Bougous dam, and the Fontaine Gazelles dam. Performance evaluation was conducted using statistical indices, scatter plots, violin plots, and Taylor diagrams. The results revealed superior prediction accuracy for the Fontaine Gazelles dam compared to Kramis and Bougous dams. Particularly, the RF, DNN, and SVR-HMO models exhibited consistent and excellent predictive performance for WLF at the Fontaine Gazelles dam with RMSE values of 0.502 m, 0.536 m, and 0.57 m, respectively. The RF model demonstrates remarkable accuracy across all three case studies. This can be attributed to the ensemble structure of RF, as evidenced by the results. This study underscores the significance of considering factors such as seepage flow intensity in understanding WLF variability. Furthermore, the proposed ML models offer promising capabilities in WLF prediction, highlighting their potential utility in enhancing reservoir management practices and addressing the limitations of traditional regression models. Keys words. Embankment dam, Water level fluctuations, Seepage, Artificial neural network, meta-heuristic algorithm.
Synthesis and Characterization of Low-Cost Zirconium Nanocomposites as Novel Adsorbents for Arsenazo III Pollutant
Authors: Eliwa Ahmed A. , Abdel-Razik Ahmed M. , Hagag Mohamed S. , Ismail Ahmed M. , Mubark Amal E.
Published: September 2024

Removing contaminated Arsenazo III dye from contaminated effluent is a challenge and of great interest due to its hazard and environmental impact. Therefore, the biggest challenge was producing highly efficient, easy to recycle, and economically inexpensive adsorbent materials for the contaminated dye. Three chemically stable zirconium nanocomposites with unique properties were synthesized by gel-precipitation technology. The composition, chemical, and physical properties of zirconium molybdate, tungstate, and silicate nanocomposites have been extensively proven using many different and appropriate devices such as XRD, SEM–EDX, TEM, FT-IR, BET, DLS, TGA-DTA, and zeta potential. By utilizing the most effective adsorption techniques, Azo-dye was successfully bound to ZrMo-NPs, ZrW-NPs, and ZrSi-NPs composites. The uptake capacities for these composites were measured at 0.29, 0.79, and 1.61 mmol.g−1, respectively. The sorption parameters were optimized as follows: a feed solution pH of 3 for ZrMo-NPs, a pH of 2.3 for ZrW-NPs, and a pH of 2.3 for ZrSi-NPs. The stirring time was set at 30 min, the metal ion concentration was 1.64 mmol L−1, and the sorbent dose was 7.5 mg. The adsorption results agreed well with the Langmuir isotherm and the pseudo-second-order reaction models and demonstrated the endothermic nature and kinetic improvement by increasing temperatures. The three nanocomposites effectively eliminated tainted dye from lab wastewater, offering promise for their potential applications in the future.

Graphical Abstract