bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Can the Spontaneous Electroencephalography Theta/Beta Power Ratio and Alpha Oscillation Measure Individuals’ Attentional Control?
Authors: Wei Hua , Chen Lele , Zhao Lijun
Published: March 2024

Past studies have shown that spontaneous electroencephalography indicators—namely, the theta/beta power ratio and alpha oscillation—may measure individuals’ attentional control processes. However, there is lack of research distinguishing these differences. This study investigated whether the theta/beta power ratio and alpha oscillation were separately related to the objective and subjective criteria of attentional control in eyes-open and eyes-closed conditions. The results showed two main findings: (1) In the eyes-open condition, the theta/beta power ratio at the Fz and Pz electrode sites were significantly negatively correlated with the attentional control scale score; the alpha power at the Pz electrode site was significantly negatively correlated with flanker RT interference effect; (2) In the eyes-closed condition, the alpha power at the Cz and Pz electrode sites were significantly positively correlated with flanker P3d. In summary, this study showed that the eyes-open spontaneous theta/beta power ratio may reflect individuals’ beliefs in their attentional control ability, and the alpha oscillation may be related to individuals’ attentional control ability.
Research on Bridge Integrity Assessment and Early Warning Monitoring Methods Based on Bearing Reaction Force
Authors: Li Shu , Gan Luyi , Zhao Ruinan , Wang Shenao , Zhou Yu
Published: March 2024

Traditional bridge monitoring and damage identification techniques typically rely on full-bridge coverage of sensors, such as displacement or strain sensors. However, this approach proves economically unfeasible for the vast numbers of small- and medium-span continuous beam bridges. In response to the need for rapid damage identification and integrity assessment of continuous beam bridges, a novel bridge safety monitoring method relying solely on bearing reaction forces is proposed. Firstly, the analytical expressions for the bearing reaction influence lines of a three-span continuous beam bridge under damage conditions were derived. Secondly, a rapid structural damage localization method based on the bearing reaction influence lines was proposed. Finally, feasibility and applicability were confirmed through numerical simulations and experimental validation. Additionally, the discussion includes the implementation of the warning classification and threshold setting using data from bearing force monitoring. The research demonstrates that utilizing a limited amount of bearing reaction force information can not only identify damage areas in a “non-full-coverage” manner, but also facilitates early warning and the integrity assessment of bridges. In the future, there is potential for large-scale application in medium- and small-span continuous beam bridges.
Gender Equality in Architecture and Construction: An Assessment Framework at the Institutional and Sectoral Levels in Jordan
Authors: Sharif Ahlam Ammar , Alshdiefat Alaa Saleh , Lee Angela , Rana Muhammad Qasim , Abu Ghunmi Noor-Alhuda Mohammad
Published: March 2024

The issue of gender equality demands attention from governments, policymakers, and the community at large. It requires continuous redefinition due to its complex technical, professional, economic, and social dimensions, all aimed at empowering women to claim their position within society. Jordan is no exception to this, as women encounter numerous hurdles in accessing equal opportunities in the professional sphere despite their increasing levels of education. This underscores the necessity for a thorough examination of the factors influencing this discussion. This research is targeted at identifying and categorising relevant gender equality indicators within the architectural practice in Jordan, as part of the construction sector. This research adopts a quantitative approach, utilising the Delphi Technique and Analytical Hierarchy Process through engagement with experts from academia and practice to ensure appropriate sourcing, filtration, and rating of the most relevant indicators. It concludes with the identification of fifty-nine indicators grouped into the categories of Education, Employability, Enablement, Inclusion, Professionalism, Facilitation, and Support. This research reveals a higher emphasis on the practical aspects of gender equality by the participants, prioritising particular categories and indicators. The findings offer essential insights to effectively address such an important issue across the policy, economic, social, and professional levels.
Optimizing Windcatcher Designs for Effective Passive Cooling Strategies in Vienna’s Urban Environment
Authors: Shayegani Aida , Joklova Viera , Illes Juraj
Published: March 2024

Urban overheating, intensified by climate change, poses a critical challenge in Central European cities, witnessing a rise in tropical days. Conventional mechanical cooling systems in buildings significantly contribute to carbon dioxide emissions, exacerbating global warming. In response, windcatchers—traditional Iranian natural cooling systems—emerge as a promising sustainable solution for contemporary architecture, even in non-arid climates. This research aims to evaluate windcatchers’ efficacy in improving building thermal comfort in Central European climates, focusing on Vienna’s urban environment. This study identifies optimal windcatcher designs by analyzing key variables: height variation, inlet dimensions, urban exposure, Building Management System (BMS) temperature thresholds, and integration with an earth tube system using Design Builder simulation software version 6. The findings reveal that a windcatcher standing at 2.5 m tall, with inlet dimensions of 0.9 m by 1.4 m, in an open, less densely populated urban setting, and with open valves when indoor temperatures surpass 22 °C, demonstrates the most effective reduction in cooling load. Moreover, both one-sided and two-sided windcatchers outperform conventional ventilation through openings. Additionally, combining a one-sided windcatcher with an earth tube system ensures efficient cooling even when exterior temperatures exceed 25 degrees Celsius. When augmented by a heat pump, this integrated system can provide heated ventilation.
Determination of the Prevalence of Microsatellite Instability, BRAF and KRAS/NRAS Mutation Status in Patients with Colorectal Cancer in Slovakia
Authors: Rendek Tomas , Saade Rami , Pos Ondrej , Kolnikova Georgina , Urbanova Monika , Budis Jaroslav , Mihok Luboslav , Tomas Miroslav , Szemes Tomas , Repiska Vanda
Published: March 2024

Slovakia has one of the highest rates of colorectal cancer among the developed countries, ranking as the second highest in the incidence of this disease for men worldwide. Despite the significant burden on both quality of life and the healthcare system this disease imposes, data on molecular analysis of biomarkers in CRC-diagnosed patients is scarce. In our study, we analyzed confirmed CRC patients from the database of the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and evaluated the presence of 4 biomarkers in tumor tissues. Altogether, 83 FFPE tumor tissues from CRC patients listed in the NCI database were analyzed for microsatellite instability status, presence of BRAF and KRAS/NRAS mutations, and neoplastic cell percentage in tissue samples. We identified 4 MSI-high samples, 39 KRAS/NRAS mutations, and 5 BRAF p.V600E mutations, with one case of coexistence of all three markers in a single tumor sample. We also evaluated possible relationships between biomarkers, their coexistence, and the age and sex of the studied population.
Air-Stable and Highly Active Transition Metal Phosphide Catalysts for Reductive Molecular Transformations
Authors: Mitsudome Takato
Published: March 2024

This review introduces transition metal phosphide nanoparticle catalysts as highly efficient and reusable heterogeneous catalysts for various reductive molecular transformations. These transformations include the hydrogenation of nitriles to primary amines, reductive amination of carbonyl compounds, and biomass conversion, specifically, the aqueous hydrogenation reaction of mono- and disaccharides to sugar alcohols. Unlike traditional air-unstable non-precious metal catalysts, these are stable in air, eliminating the need for strict anaerobic conditions or pre-reduction. Moreover, when combined with supports, metal phosphides exhibit significantly enhanced activity, demonstrating high activity, selectivity, and durability in these hydrogenation reactions.
Drosophila Importin Alpha 1 (Dα1) Is Required to Maintain Germline Stem Cells in the Testis Niche
Authors: Heaney James , Zhao Jiamin , Casagranda Franca , Loveland Kate L. , Siddall Nicole A. , Hime Gary R.
Published: March 2024

Stem cell maintenance and differentiation can be regulated via the differential activity of transcription factors within stem cells and their progeny. For these factors to be active, they need to be transported from their site of synthesis in the cytoplasm into the nucleus. A tissue-specific requirement for factors involved in nuclear importation is a potential mechanism to regulate stem cell differentiation. We have undertaken a characterization of male sterile importin alpha 1 (Dα1) null alleles in Drosophila and found that Dα1 is required for maintaining germline stem cells (GSCs) in the testis niche. The loss of GSCs can be rescued by ectopic expression of Dα1 within the germline but the animals are still infertile, indicating a second role for Dα1 in spermatogenesis. Expression of a Dα1 dominant negative transgene in GSCs confirmed a functional requirement for Dα1 in GSC maintenance but expression of the transgene in differentiating spermatogonia did not exhibit a phenotype indicating a specific role for Dα1 within GSCs. Our data indicate that Dα1 is utilized as a regulatory protein within GSCs to facilitate nuclear importation of proteins that maintain the stem cell pool.
Antioxidant Glutathione Analogues UPF1 and UPF17 Modulate the Expression of Enzymes Involved in the Pathophysiology of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Oit-Wiscombe Ingrid , Soomets Ursel , Altraja Alan
Published: March 2024

Increased oxidative stress (OS) and systemic inflammation are key players in the pathophysiology of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). We aimed to clarify the effects of synthetic glutathione (GSH) analogue peptides UPF1 and UPF17 on the mRNA levels of enzymes involved in systemic inflammation and GSH metabolism in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from patients with acute exacerbation of COPD (AE-COPD) and stable COPD along with non-obstructive smokers and non-smokers. UPF1 and UPF17 increased the expression of enzymes involved in the formation of the antioxidant capacity: superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) and the catalytic subunit of glutamyl-cysteine ligase (GCLC) in patients with AE-COPD and stable COPD, but also in non-obstructive smokers and non-smokers. Similarly, both UPF1 and UPF17 increased the expression of inflammatory enzymes poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 (PARP-1), dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP4), and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). Both UPF analogues acted in a gender-dependent manner by increasing the expression of certain anti-inflammatory (histone deacetylase 2 (HDAC2)) and GSH metabolism pathway (SOD1 and GSH reductase (GSR))-related enzymes in females and decreasing them in males. UPF1 and UPF17 are able to increase the expression of the enzymes involved in GSH metabolism and could serve as a lead for designing potential COPD therapies against excessive OS.
Numerical Analysis of Textile Reinforced Concrete Shells: Force Interaction and Failure Types
Authors: Vakaliuk Iurii , Scheerer Silke , Curbach Manfred
Published: March 2024

In the case of solid slabs made of reinforced concrete that are usually subjected to bending, large areas of the structure are stressed well below their load-bearing capacity. Contrary to this are shell structures, which can bridge large spans with little material if designed according to the force flow. To improve the efficiency of ceiling slabs, we want to utilize the shell load-bearing behavior on a smaller scale by resolving the solid interior accordingly. In order to study a wide range of such constructions virtually, a parametric multi-objective simulation environment is being developed in an ongoing research project. The basic analysis approaches that were implemented are presented in this paper. The basic workflow, the used programs and material models, and their calibration on the tests on textile-reinforced concrete (TRC) samples are described.
Cu–Ethanolamine Nanozymes Promote Urushiol Oxidation of Lacquer
Authors: Zhang Yan , Zhou Ying , Ban Lishou , Tang Tian , Liu Qian , Liu Xijun , He Jia
Published: March 2024

In order to control the production cost of lacquer products, Cu–ethanolamine nanozymes were synthesized to simulate laccase to catalyze the oxidation and polymerization of urushiol. First-principles calculation results indicate that the D-band center of Cu center in the nanozymes was closer to the Fermi level than that of laccase, so Cu–ethanolamine was more conducive to the adsorption of substrate. The activation energy of Cu-ethanolamine catalyzed the oxidation of urushiol was significantly lower than that of laccase. Therefore, we inferred that the synthesized Cu–ethanolamine had a better catalytic effect on urushiol and was more conducive to paint film drying. By comprehensive comparison, the drying characteristics of the Cu–ethanolamine and raw lacquer with a 1:20 ratio are found to be closest to those of the raw lacquer, and the drying time is significantly shortened. The reaction results of the drying process performance test on the sample indicate that the composite lacquer can achieve the market-desired effect and performance requirements of the paint process.
Mechanical Grinding of Hydroxyapatite and Its Interaction with Titanium
Authors: Mamaeva Axaule , Kenzhegulov Aidar , Panichkin Aleksander , Abdulvaliyev Rinat , Kshibekova Balzhan , Arynbayev Talgat
Published: March 2024

The development of promising biocompatible composites based on hydroxyapatite with a metallic component is of great interest to researchers. This article describes the synthesis of hydroxyapatite powder by the hydrolytic method and presents the results of mechanical grinding of hydroxyapatite powder. Additionally, in order to study the interaction between titanium and hydroxyapatite powders, the results of their thermal treatment in the temperature range of 600–900 °C are presented. As a result of the hydrolytic method, a powder consisting of Ca5(PO4)3(OH) and CaO phases with a fraction of 400–600 μm was obtained. According to the results of mechanical grinding, it was determined that with an increase in grinding time from 30 to 120 min, the intensive main diffraction lines corresponding to hydroxyapatite decrease. During the thermal treatment of titanium and hydroxyapatite powders, titanium oxidizes forming suboxides and titanium dioxide (TiO2). At higher temperatures, the hydroxyapatite phase disappears from the mixture, and titanium oxide, calcium phosphate compound, and small amounts of calcium titanate and titanium hydrophosphate are present.
Surface Modification of 42CrMo Steels: A Review from Wear and Corrosion Resistance
Authors: Zhang Zhendong , Wang Di , Liu Guanglei , Qian Yiyi , Xu Yuquan , Xiang Dingding
Published: March 2024

This work reviews surface modification techniques for improving the wear and corrosion resistance of 42CrMo steel. The advantages and disadvantages of various methods, including thermal spraying, deposition, hardfacing, laser cladding, nitriding, and laser surface treatment, are discussed. The review elaborates on the materials commonly employed in laser cladding technology, including iron-based, cobalt-based, nickel-based, and high-entropy alloys and reinforced composite coatings. Furthermore, the mechanisms and methods of improving the wear and corrosion resistance of 42CrMo steel are summarized. Finally, this review presents research shortcomings and future opportunities of surface modification techniques. This review also provides a theoretical guide for the application of 42CrMo steel.
Automatic Spell-Checking System for Spanish Based on the Ar2p Neural Network Model
Authors: Puerto Eduard , Aguilar Jose , Pinto Angel
Published: March 2024

Currently, approaches to correcting misspelled words have problems when the words are complex or massive. This is even more serious in the case of Spanish, where there are very few studies in this regard. So, proposing new approaches to word recognition and correction remains a research topic of interest. In particular, an interesting approach is to computationally simulate the brain process for recognizing misspelled words and their automatic correction. Thus, this article presents an automatic recognition and correction system of misspelled words in Spanish texts, for the detection of misspelled words, and their automatic amendments, based on the systematic theory of pattern recognition of the mind (PRTM). The main innovation of the research is the use of the PRTM theory in this context. Particularly, a corrective system of misspelled words in Spanish based on this theory, called Ar2p-Text, was designed and built. Ar2p-Text carries out a recursive process of analysis of words by a disaggregation/integration mechanism, using specialized hierarchical recognition modules that define formal strategies to determine if a word is well or poorly written. A comparative evaluation shows that the precision and coverage of our Ar2p-Text model are competitive with other spell-checkers. In the experiments, the system achieves better performance than the three other systems. In general, Ar2p-Text obtains an F-measure of 83%, above the 73% achieved by the other spell-checkers. Our hierarchical approach reuses a lot of information, allowing for the improvement of the text analysis processes in both quality and efficiency. Preliminary results show that the above will allow for future developments of technologies for the correction of words inspired by this hierarchical approach.
Traditional Yerba Mate Agroforestry Systems in Araucaria Forest in Southern Brazil Improve the Provisioning of Soil Ecosystem Services
Authors: Parron Lucilia M. , Peixoto Ricardo Trippia dos G. , da Silva Krisle , Brown George G.
Published: March 2024

Soils are a source of natural capital that provide and regulate a range of ecosystem services (ES) and play an important role in sustaining human welfare. Nonetheless, the quality and quantity of soil ecosystem services (SES) delivery over the long term depend on the use of sustainable land management practices. In the present study, we assessed seven SES using a set of soil quality indicators in four production systems based on yerba mate (Ilex paraguariensis A. St.-Hil) in the Araucaria Forest biome of Southern Brazil: two sites were under traditional agroecological agroforestry management, one was a silvopastoral system with dairy pasture, and the last one was a monoculture yerba mate production system. The SES measured were soil fertility, carbon sequestration, erosion control, nutrient cycling, plant provision, biodiversity, and health. Soil samples were collected at various depths and analysed for chemical, physical, and biological attributes. A principal component analysis on the dataset showed that the soil quality indicators that best represent the variance between the systems at the 0–10 cm layer were acidity, microbial activity (FDA), total nitrogen, (TN), structural stability index (SSI), cation exchange capacity (CEC), pH, sum of bases (SB), microbial quotient (qMic), density of earthworms (EwD), bulk density (BD), and carbon stocks (Cstock). Soil quality indicators ranging from 0 to 1 were used to graphically represent the set of SES. The indicator-based approach used to explain the differences among the four production systems was able to capture the soil functions and offered a good starting point for quantifying SES provision.
Utility of Flash Glucose Monitoring to Determine Glucose Variation Induced by Different Doughs in Persons with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Taras Maria Antonietta , Cherchi Sara , Campesi Ilaria , Margarita Valentina , Carboni Gavino , Rappelli Paola , Tonolo Giancarlo
Published: March 2024

(1) Background: It has been previously shown that sourdough bread, compared to commercial yeast bread, elicits a lower postprandial glycemic and insulinemic response in patients with impaired glucose tolerance (IGT). Aims: Our aim was to evaluate the following aspects in persons with type 2 diabetes (T2DM): (1) glucose variations induced by three different doughs: X = bread prepared with functional alkaline biocrystal water, Y = sourdough-leavened bread, and W = bakery yeast bread; (2) the utility of flash glucose monitoring (FGM) to measure GL. (2) Methods: Twelve T2DM following diets (six males, diabetes duration 10.9 ± 1.3 years with no complications, Hba1c < 7.0%), after 12 h of fasting, consumed 180 g of the study breads leavened/matured for 48 (X), 8 (Y), and 4 h (W) at room temperature with 200 mL of water, in a random order, in single-blind conditions, on three different days. All patients had FGM running for the entire period of the experiments. Insulin was determined by capillary blood obtained for the basal and peak glucose concentrations. (3) Results: The peak glucose and peak insulin concentrations were significantly (p < 0.05) higher for W versus both X and Y, without significant differences between X and Y. The area under the curve of glucose variations for over 240 min was significantly higher in W than X (p < 0.01) and Y (p < 0.05), without significant differences between X and Y. (4) Conclusions: (1) Bread prepared with biocrystal water has the same lower GL of sourdough bread compared to bakery yeast bread, and it is easier to manage its leavening/maturation period; (2) FGM is a reliable method for determining rapid glucose changes in response to a carbohydrate meal in persons with type 2 diabetes.
A Rapid On-Line Evaluation (ROLE) Protocol in the Diagnostic Performance Improvement in Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Tissue Acquisition for Solid Pancreatic Lesions
Authors: Cai Yunlong , Rao Xiaolong , Zhang Jixin , Liu Guanyi , Zheng Yiling , Yue Taohua , Nian Weidong , Rong Long
Published: March 2024

We assessed the rapid on-line evaluation (ROLE) protocol as a modification to the conventional rapid on-site evaluation (ROSE) in the diagnostic performance improvement in endoscopic ultrasound-guided tissue acquisition (EUS-TA) for solid pancreatic lesions. This single-center, retrospective study involved consecutive patients with solid pancreatic lesions undergoing EUS-TA at Peking University First Hospital between October 2017 and March 2021. Among 137 patients enrolled, 75 were in the ROLE group and 62 were in the non-ROSE group. The diagnostic yield (97.3% vs. 85.5%, p = 0.023), accuracy (94.7% vs. 82.3%, p = 0.027), and sensitivity (95.7% vs. 81.1%, p = 0.011) were significantly higher in the ROLE group compared to the non-ROSE group. However, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and area under the curve (AUC) showed no significant differences (all p-values > 0.05). Additionally, there was a noteworthy reduction in the number of needle passes required in the ROLE group compared to the non-ROSE group (two vs. three, p < 0.001). In a subgroup analysis, fine needle biopsy (FNB) combined with ROLE demonstrated superior diagnostic accuracy compared to FNB with non-ROSE (100% vs. 93.1%, p = 0.025). Compared with the non-ROSE protocol, the ROLE protocol might improve the diagnostic performance of EUS-TA for solid pancreatic lesions, and potentially reduce the number of needle passes requirement.
Existing and Evolving Landscape of Medulloblastoma: Towards Optimization and Personalization
Authors: Gupta Tejpal , Chatterjee Abhishek
Published: March 2024

Advances in diagnostic imaging, pathology, and molecular biology coupled with improvements in neurosurgical approaches, radiotherapeutic techniques, and systemic therapies over the last two decades have vastly improved survival outcomes for medulloblastoma, the most common childhood malignant tumor [...]
Merging Two Models of One-Dimensional Convolutional Neural Networks to Improve the Differential Diagnosis between Acute Asthma and Bronchitis in Preschool Children
Authors: Salih Waleed , Koyuncu Hakan
Published: March 2024

(1) Background: Acute asthma and bronchitis are common infectious diseases in children that affect lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs), especially in preschool children (below six years). These diseases can be caused by viral or bacterial infections and are considered one of the main reasons for the increase in the number of deaths among children due to the rapid spread of infection, especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). People sometimes confuse acute bronchitis and asthma because there are many overlapping symptoms, such as coughing, runny nose, chills, wheezing, and shortness of breath; therefore, many junior doctors face difficulty differentiating between cases of children in the emergency departments. This study aims to find a solution to improve the differential diagnosis between acute asthma and bronchitis, reducing time, effort, and money. The dataset was generated with 512 prospective cases in Iraq by a consultant pediatrician at Fallujah Teaching Hospital for Women and Children; each case contains 12 clinical features. The data collection period for this study lasted four months, from March 2022 to June 2022. (2) Methods: A novel method is proposed for merging two one-dimensional convolutional neural networks (2-1D-CNNs) and comparing the results with merging one-dimensional neural networks with long short-term memory (1D-CNNs + LSTM). (3) Results: The merged results (2-1D-CNNs) show an accuracy of 99.72% with AUC 1.0, then we merged 1D-CNNs with LSTM models to obtain the accuracy of 99.44% with AUC 99.96%. (4) Conclusions: The merging of 2-1D-CNNs is better because the hyperparameters of both models will be combined; therefore, high accuracy results will be obtained. The 1D-CNNs is the best artificial neural network technique for textual data, especially in healthcare; this study will help enhance junior and practitioner doctors’ capabilities by the rapid detection and differentiation between acute bronchitis and asthma without referring to the consultant pediatrician in the hospitals.
Generalized Labeled Multi-Bernoulli Filter-Based Passive Localization and Tracking of Radiation Sources Carried by Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
Authors: Zhao Jun , Gui Renzhou , Dong Xudong
Published: March 2024

This paper discusses a key technique for passive localization and tracking of radiation sources, which obtains the motion trajectory of radiation sources carried by unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) by continuously or periodically localizing it without the active participation of the radiation sources. However, the existing methods have some limitations in complex signal environments and non-stationary wireless propagation that impact the accuracy of localization and tracking. To address these challenges, this paper extends the δ-generalized labeled multi-Bernoulli (GLMB) filter to the scenario of passive localization and tracking based on the random finite-set (RFS) framework and provides the extended Kalman filter (EKF) and unscented Kalman filter (UKF) implementations of the δ-GLMB filter, which fully take into account the nonlinear motion of the radiation source. By modeling the “obstacle scenario” and the influence of external factors (e.g., weather, terrain), our proposed GLMB filter can accurately track the target and capture its motion trajectory. Simulation results verify the effectiveness of the GLMB filter in target identification and state tracking.
The Visual Science Communication Toolkit: Responding to the Need for Visual Science Communication Training in Undergraduate Life Sciences Education
Authors: Zhang Ke Er , Jenkinson Jodie
Published: March 2024

Visual representations are essential to scientific research and teaching, playing a role in conceptual understanding, knowledge generation, and the communication of discovery and change. Undergraduate students are expected to interpret, use, and create visual representations so they can make their thinking explicit when engaging in discourse with the scientific community. Despite the importance of visualization in the biosciences, students often learn visualization skills in an ad hoc fashion without a clear framework. We used a mixed-methods sequential explanatory study design to explore and assess the pedagogical needs of undergraduate biology students (n = 53), instructors (n = 13), and teaching assistants (n = 8) in visual science communication education. Key themes were identified using inductive grounded theory methods. We found that extrinsic motivations, namely time, financial resources, and grading practices, contribute to a lack of guidance, support, and structure as well as ambiguous expectations and standards perceived by students and instructors. Biology and science visualization instructors cite visual communication assessments as a way of developing and evaluating students’ higher-order thinking skills in addition to their communication competencies. An output of this research, the development of a learning module, the Visual Science Communication Toolkit, is discussed along with design considerations for developing resources for visual science communication education.
Alexithymia as a Risk Factor for an Internet Addiction in Adolescents and Young Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Skotalczyk Magdalena Anna , Dąbrowska Karolina Anna , Smorońska-Rypel Joanna , Wilczyński Krzysztof Maria , Janas-Kozik Małgorzata
Published: March 2024

The aim of the study is to investigate the association of alexithymia with Internet addiction and autism spectrum disorders among adolescents and young adults. The links between alexithymia, ASD and other mental disorders are still a largely unexplored topic in psychiatry. An intriguing question is to what extent alexithymia can be a component of the clinical picture of ASD, and to what extent it is an independent phenomenon often co-occurring with ASD. The study group consisted of young Poles aged 11 to 35 (n = 229), including women (n = 167; 73%), men (n = 53; 23%) and non-binary people (n = 9; 4%). The following questionnaires were used in the Polish validated version as screening tools and shared online: AQ (Autism Quotient), TAS-20 (Toronto Alexithymia Scale), IAT (Internet Addiction Test). Among the subjects, 15 people admitted that they had received an official diagnosis of ASD, while 26 people showed a significantly increased severity of autistic traits on the AQ questionnaire. People with ASD who also exhibit alexithymia features are certainly more prone to problematic use of the Internet. In contrast, such a risk in people with ASD without alexithymia is comparable to the general population.
Enhancing Computational Efficiency in Event-Based Optical Camera Communication Using N-Pulse Modulation
Authors: Aranda Jaime , Guerra Victor , Rabadan Jose , Perez-Jimenez Rafael
Published: March 2024

Event cameras are bio-inspired devices that have revolutionized the acquisition of visual information by mimicking the neural architecture of the eye. These cameras respond asynchronously to changes in scene illumination at the pixel level, providing high-precision time information with low latency, typically in the order of microseconds. In this work, we experimentally evaluate an optical camera communication (OCC) link using an LED-based transmitter and an event camera as the receiver. We propose n-pulse modulation to encode data, adapting the system to the specific characteristics and operational principles of event cameras. The proposed scheme significantly reduces the demodulation complexity compared to other alternatives found in the literature. Furthermore, a set of experiments considering different camera bias sensitivities, encoding duty cycles, and LED radiant fluxes were carried out. The results showed that the BER performance was strongly dependent on the received optical power and the bias sensitivity. In addition, duty cycles between 0.3 and 0.7 at a 200 Hz transmission frequency presented the best performance, with a BER below 1.25×10−4, which is under the forward error correction (FEC) limit. This work showcases the cutting-edge capabilities of event-camera-based OCC technology and contributes to the ongoing revolution in optical wireless communication (OWC).
The Impact of Computational Accuracy on the Quality of Direct Drive Control
Authors: Góra Grzegorz , Petko Maciej , Gac Konrad , Górski Jakub , Iwaniec Joanna , Mańka Michał , Zabierowski Wojciech
Published: March 2024

One of the main aspects of the control system development process for direct drives is the selection of the required computational accuracy while establishing its impact on the quality of the control. Understanding this relationship allows designers to consciously determine the system structure at the early stages of controller development, which enables the optimal usage of hardware resources. This paper analyzes the results of experimental research on the influence of computational accuracy on the quality of control of direct drives. During the carried-out research, several vector controllers with different computational precision were implemented using Field-Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs). The experiments were carried out on a dedicated research stand for testing direct drives. Test scenarios included position and trajectory monitoring under various torque loads. To assess the control quality, the measures based on the deviations from the value set by the controller were proposed. In this paper, the results of experiments have been presented in the form of values of the measures in relation to the computational accuracy. The obtained results proved that satisfactory drive operation parameters can be obtained despite the relatively low accuracy of calculations in the control algorithm.
UAV Swarm Centroid Tracking for Edge Computing Applications Using GRU-Assisted Multi-Model Filtering
Authors: Chen Yudi , Liu Xiangyu , Li Changqing , Zhu Jiao , Wu Min , Su Xiang
Published: March 2024

When an unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) swarm is used for edge computing, and high-speed data transmission is required, accurate tracking of the UAV swarm’s centroid is of great significance for the acquisition and synchronization of signal demodulation. Accurate centroid tracking can also be applied to accurate communication beamforming and angle tracking, bringing about a reception gain. Group target tracking (GTT) offers a suitable framework for tracking the centroids of UAV swarms. GTT typically involves accurate modeling of target maneuvering behavior and effective state filtering. However, conventional coordinate-uncoupled maneuver models and multi-model filtering methods encounter difficulties in accurately tracking highly maneuverable UAVs. To address this, an innovative approach known as 3DCDM-based GRU-MM is introduced for tracking the maneuvering centroid of a UAV swarm. This method employs a multi-model filtering technique assisted by a gated recurrent unit (GRU) network based on a suitable 3D coordinate-coupled dynamic model. The proposed dynamic model represents the centroid’s tangential load, normal load, and roll angle as random processes, from which a nine-dimensional unscented Kalman filter is derived. A GRU is utilized to update the model weights of the multi-model filtering. Additionally, a smoothing-differencing module is presented to extract the maneuvering features from position observations affected by measurement noise. The resulting GRU-MM method achieved a classification accuracy of 99.73%, surpassing that of the traditional IMM algorithm based on the same model. Furthermore, our proposed 3DCDM-based GRU-MM method outperformed the Singer-KF and 3DCDM-based IMM-EKF in terms of the RMSE for position estimation, which provides a basis for further edge computing.
Phenomenon and Mechanisms of Sonneratia apetala Introduction and Spread Promoting Excessive Growth of Derris trifoliata
Authors: Liu Wenai , Li Lifeng , Xue Yunhong , Liang Qiuxia , Tao Yancheng , Wu Huiying , Jiang Weiguo
Published: March 2024

Sonneratia apetala Buch., an alien species with strong growth and adaptability, has been introduced and cultivated in Southeastern China. Meanwhile, Derris trifoliata Lour., native to coastal and riparian areas in Guangdong, Guangxi, and Fujian provinces, has experienced a rapid surge in population, impacting the health of mangrove ecosystems. Our research focuses on understanding the interactions between Oriental mangroves and D. trifoliata, particularly their proliferation and long-term symbiotic relationships. We investigated how Oriental mangrove proliferation promotes excessive D. trifoliata growth and explored the underlying mechanisms. In Leizhou Bay, Guangxi, the annual growth rate surged from 12.03% (2005–2015) to 55.36% (2015–2019), indicating a significant acceleration post-2015 and a concerning trend towards overgrowth. D. trifoliata failed to produce seeds on sea rockets or bulrushes, instead yielding 10.5 and 97.43 seeds/m2 on native red mangroves and Oriental mangroves, respectively. Along riverbanks, 68% of Oriental mangroves hosted D. trifoliata, and the suitable regions for these species overlapped significantly. Oriental mangroves reach 15 m tall with 10 × 10 m crown diameters, providing ample vine space, optimal photosynthesis conditions, sturdy support, and convenient dispersal routes. This study offers insights into introduced–native species interactions in mangrove ecosystems, with significance for management and preservation.
Numerical Simulation of Soliton Propagation Behavior for the Fractional-in-Space NLSE with Variable Coefficients on Unbounded Domain
Authors: Tian Fengzhou , Wang Yulan , Li Zhiyuan
Published: March 2024

The soliton propagation of the fractional-in-space nonlinear Schrodinger equation (NLSE) is much more complicated than that of the corresponding integer NLSE. The aim of this paper is to discover some novel fractal soliton propagation behaviors (FSPBs) of this fractional-in-space NLSE. Firstly, the exact solution is compared with the present numerical solution, and the validity and accuracy of the present numerical method are verified. Secondly, the effect of fractional derivatives on soliton propagation is explored through the present numerical simulation results. At the same time, the present method is extended to the three-dimensional fractional-order NLSE. Finally, some novel FSPBs of the fractional-in-space NLSE are given.
EncephalApp Stroop Test as a Screening Tool for the Detection of Minimal Hepatic Encephalopathy in Patients with Cirrhosis—Single-Center Experience
Authors: Vojnovic Marko , Pantic Ivana , Jankovic Goran , Stulic Milos , Lalosevic Milica Stojkovic , Pejic Nina , Milovanovic Tamara
Published: March 2024

Background: Minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE) is the mildest form of hepatic encephalopathy. One of the neuropsychological tests that detects MHE is the Stroop test (via EncephalApp). The aim was to evaluate the Stroop test for the screening and diagnosis of MHE. Methods: This prospective case–control study was performed at the Clinic for Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Clinical Center of Serbia, and included patients with cirrhosis and MHE and healthy controls. In all patients, the presence of MHE was confirmed using the animal naming test. The Stroop test was performed on each participant, and the results were compared between the two groups. The test has two components, the “OFF” and “ON” states. Results: A total of 111 participants were included. The median OFF time did not differ between the two groups, 106.3 and 91.4, p > 0.05. However, in patients with MHE, the median values of ON time and total time were significantly higher, with 122.3 vs. 105.3 and 228.0 vs. 195.6, respectively, p < 0.05. Statistical significance between patients and controls in examined parameters was detected in younger participants and the group with higher educational levels. Conclusions: The Stroop test displayed limited sensitivity in Serbian patients. Age and education affect time measurements and test performance.
Genome-Wide DNA Methylation Analysis and Functional Validation of Litter Size Traits in Jining Grey Goats
Authors: Yang Cunming , He Junmin , Mao Jingyi , Ren Yifan , Liu Guifen , Wei Chen , Zhang Guoping , Tian Kechuan , Huang Xixia
Published: March 2024

DNA methylation (DNAm) is associated with the reproductive system. However, the genetic mechanism through which DNAm regulates gene expression and thus affects litter size in goats is unclear. Therefore, in the present work, genome-wide DNAm profiles of HP and LP Jining Grey goat ovary tissues were comprehensively analyzed via WGBS, and RNA-Seq data were combined to identify candidate genes associated with litter size traits in the Jining Grey goat. Finally, BSP and RT-qPCR were used to verify the sequencing results of the key genes. Notably, the DNMT genes were downregulated at the expression level in the HP group. Both groups exhibited comparable levels of methylation. A total of 976 differentially methylated regions (DMRs) (973 DMRs for CG and 3 DMRs for CHG) and 310 differentially methylated genes (DMGs) were identified in this study. Through integration of WGBS and RNA-Seq data, we identified 59 differentially methylated and differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and ultimately screened 8 key DMGs (9 DMRS) associated with litter size traits in Jining Grey goats (SERPINB2: chr24_62258801_62259000, NDRG4: chr18_27599201_27599400, CFAP43: chr26_27046601_27046800, LRP1B. chr2_79720201_79720400, EPHA6: chr1_40088601_40088800, TTC29: chr17_59385801_59386000, PDE11A: chr2_117418601_117418800 and PGF: chr10_ 16913801_16914000 and chr10_16916401_16916600). In summary, our research comprehensively analyzed the genome-wide DNAm profiles of HP and LP Jining Grey goat ovary tissues. The data findings suggest that DNAm in goat ovaries may play an important role in determining litter size.
Beyond Heritage Science: A Review
Authors: Kennedy Craig J. , Penman Michael , Watkinson David , Emmerson Nicola , Thickett David , Bosché Frédéric , Forster Alan M. , Grau-Bové Josep , Cassar May
Published: March 2024

Heritage science is an established and thriving field of enquiry. Initially considered as inherently cross-disciplinary, encompassing both the needs of conservators and practitioners and the high-quality evidence produced by scientists, heritage science has, through its expansion in recent years, formed a discipline in its own right. Here, we examine how heritage science can, and to an extent has, moved beyond the straightforward scientific analysis of historical materials and artefacts through an exploration of heritage science’s interactions with four key themes: (i) historical and archival research, (ii) conservation practice, (iii) policy at governmental, organisational and institutional levels, and (iv) a view to how new technologies, such as machine learning and artificial intelligence, can shape the future of heritage science. Much of the review narrative is framed via the analysis of UK-based case studies; however, they deal with issues that are international in nature (universal) and therefore transcend the UK context. Taken together, we demonstrate that heritage science as a discipline is capable of directly instigating or (re-)framing new areas or avenues of research, as well as enhancing and feeding into existing research questions, and has adapted and evolved along with emerging technologies and funding opportunities.
Impact of Stress during COVID-19 Pandemic in Italy: A Study on Dispositional and Behavioral Dimensions for Supporting Evidence-Based Targeted Strategies
Authors: Platania Giuseppe Alessio , Varrasi Simone , Guerrera Claudia Savia , Boccaccio Francesco Maria , Torre Vittoria , Vezzosi Venera Francesca , Pirrone Concetta , Castellano Sabrina
Published: March 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic caused critical mental health issues and lifestyle disruptions. The aim of this study was to explore, during the lockdown of second-wave contagions in Italy, how stress was affected by dispositional (personality factors and intolerance to uncertainty) and behavioral (coping strategies) dimensions, how these variables differed among sex, age, educational, professional, and health groups, and how the various changes in work and daily routine intervened in the psychological impact of the emergency. Our results highlight that women, the youngs, students/trainees, those with chronic diseases, those who stopped their jobs due to restrictions, and those who left home less than twice a week were more stressed, while health professionals showed lower levels of the same construct. Those with higher levels of stress used more coping strategies based on avoidance, which positively correlated with age, agreeableness, conscientiousness, and intolerance to uncertainty, and negatively with openness. Stress levels also positively correlated with agreeableness, conscientiousness, intolerance to uncertainty, and seeking of social support, and negatively with openness, a positive attitude, and a transcendent orientation. Finally, stress was predicted mainly by behavioral dimensions. Our results are discussed and framed within the literature, as important insights for targeted intervention strategies to promote health even in emergencies.
Exploring Factors Influencing COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy and Refusal: A Study in Italy during the Vaccine Rollout
Authors: Barazzetti Arianna , Milesi Stefano , Negri Attà
Published: March 2024

The availability of an effective vaccine against COVID-19 virus marked a crucial moment in the fight against its pandemic spread. Although distribution of the vaccine began in December 2020, high acceptance rates and repeated administrations are needed to achieve widespread immunization, but hesitation toward the vaccine persists to this day. To identify psychological variables and other factors associated with vaccine hesitancy, we conducted a study from August 2021 to October 2022. An Internet-based survey gathered data from 137 Italian adults, exploring attitudes, sociodemographic characteristics, psychological variables, and immunization behavior. The results analysis showed that gender (69.2% of vaccine-adverse people were males), education (years of education was negatively correlated with vaccine hesitancy), and religion (not declaring oneself religious or atheist was more likely to be associated with hesitancy toward the vaccine) were the variables influencing attitudes toward the vaccine. Other psychological variables differentiated people with opposite attitudes toward the vaccine: high scores on the Conspiracy Mentality Questionnaire (CMQ) and Core Belief Inventory (CBI) were positively correlated with vaccine hesitancy, indicating that individuals with more pronounced core belief violation, due to the pandemic, tend to express higher levels of vaccine hesitancy. Finally, a linear regression analysis confirmed the role of participants’ conspiracy mentality as a valid predictor for vaccine hesitancy.