bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Québec-U.S. Relations: “It’s the Economy Stupid!”
Authors: Paquin Stéphane , Millette Alexandre
Published: January 2025

This chapter explores the evolving relationship between Québec and the United States through distinctive periods from the confederation of Canada in 1867–2023. Through this historical analysis, we define shifts in diplomatic approaches and economic strategies. Building on previous work, which established five distinctive periods, we believe Québec-U.S. relations entered a sixth period, in 2014, marked by a significant focus on economic policies under the administrations of Philippe Couillard and François Legault. This chapter emphasizes Legault’s government actions addressing economic issues, such as the Investissement Québec reform and the publication of Québec’s International Vision and Territorial Strategy for the United States. Nonetheless, Québec’s economic-centric approach is positioned against the renewal of protectionism in the United States. While Québec’s government tries to leverage the post-pandemic economic recovery to stimulate global exports, mainly within the strategic perimeter of the United States, protectionism and high inflation looms over the province. The chapter concludes by prompting a reflection on the sustainability of Québec’s one-track economic-focused approach by wondering if a more balanced strategy might be needed in the future.
Between Charm Offensives and Confrontations: A Brief Portrait of the Defense of Québec’s Commercial Interests Before American Authorities
Authors: McSweeney Patrick , Ouellet Richard
Published: January 2025

The essential question examined in this chapter is: what does Québec do to protect its trade interests in the U.S.? After briefly explaining why Québec is directly involved in the protection of its trade with the U.S., this paper presents the legal basis for Québec’s engagement in international trade and the importance of the commercial partnership between Québec and the U.S. Then, three different situations are examined: when the sun is shining and Québec can promote its interests by its network of “economic diplomacy”; when clouds are gathering and advocacy efforts must become more focused between Québec and U.S. officials; and, when the storm begins, the dispute gets formal and the lawyers are at the front lines, before courts or arbitral panels.
Adapting to Distinct Societies: Québec Policy and Paradiplomacy in Migration
Authors: Carter Neal
Published: January 2025

Québec faces a key policy dilemma as it tries to maintain its distinct society, enhance its economic future, and maintain its demographic power in Canada. While Québec has some limited powers over immigration granted in the Canadian constitution, it uses cooperation with the Canadian government and paradiplomacy to enhance its powers. The recent refugee crisis of Roxham Road challenged Canada, Québec, and the United States to alter their policy. This chapter places the crisis in the context of paradiplomacy, the history of migration, and Québec’s attempt to maintain its distinct society. While the revision of the Safe Third Country Agreement mitigated the crisis, it did little to address the underlying concerns.
Pair Crossing Number, Cutwidth, and Good Drawings on Arbitrary Point Sets
Authors: Pi Oriol Solé
Published: January 2025

Determining whether there exists a graph such that its crossing number and pair crossing number are distinct is an important open problem in geometric graph theory. We show that

$$\textit{cr}(G)=O(\mathop {\textrm{pcr}}(G)^{3/2})$$

cr

(
G
)

=
O
(
pcr

(
G
)

3
/
2

)

for every graph G, improving the previous best bound by a logarithmic factor. Answering a question of Pach and Tóth, we prove that the bisection width (and, in fact, the cutwidth as well) of a graph G with degree sequence

$$d_1,d_2,\dots ,d_n$$

d
1

,

d
2

,
⋯
,

d
n

satisfies

$$\mathop {\textrm{bw}}(G)=O\big (\sqrt{\mathop {\textrm{pcr}}(G)+\sum _{k=1}^n d_k^2}\big )$$

bw

(
G
)

=
O

(

pcr

(
G
)

+

∑

k
=
1

n

d
k
2

)

. Then we show that there is a constant

$$C\ge 1$$

C
≥
1

such that the following holds: For any graph G of order n and any set S of at least

$$n^C$$

n
C

points in general position on the plane, G admits a straight-line drawing which maps the vertices to points of S and has no more than

$$O\left( \log n\cdot \left( \mathop {\textrm{pcr}}(G)+\sum _{k=1}^n d_k^2\right) \right) $$

O

log
n
·

pcr

(
G
)

+

∑

k
=
1

n

d
k
2

crossings. Our proofs rely on a slightly modified version of a separator theorem for string graphs by Lee, which might be of independent interest.
The AGM of Gauss, Ramanujan’s corresponding theory, and spectral bounds of self-adjoint operators
Authors: Faulhuber Markus , Gumber Anupam , Shafkulovska Irina
Published: January 2025

We study the spectral bounds of self-adjoint operators on the Hilbert space of square-integrable functions, arising from the representation theory of the Heisenberg group. Interestingly, starting either with the von Neumann lattice or the hexagonal lattice of density 2, the spectral bounds obey well-known arithmetic–geometric mean iterations. This follows from connections to Jacobi theta functions and Ramanujan’s corresponding theories. As a consequence, we rediscover that these operators resemble the identity operator as the density of the lattice grows. We also prove that the conjectural value of Landau’s constant is obtained as half the cubic arithmetic–geometric mean of

$$\root 3 \of {2}$$

2
3

and 1, which we believe to be a new result.
A practical and online trajectory planner for autonomous ships’ berthing, incorporating speed control
Authors: Mwange Agnes N. , Rachman Dimas M. , Suyama Rin , Maki Atsuo
Published: January 2025

Autonomous ships are designed and equipped to perceive their internal and external environments and subsequently take appropriate actions based on predefined objective(s) without human intervention. Consequently, trajectory-planning algorithms for autonomous berthing must consider factors such as system dynamics, ship actuators, environmental disturbances, and operational safety. In this study, trajectory planning for an autonomous ship was modeled as an optimal control problem (OCP), which was transcribed into a nonlinear programming problem (NLP) using direct multiple shooting. To enhance berthing safety, wind disturbances, speed control guidelines, actuator limitations, and collision avoidance features were incorporated as constraints in the NLP, which was then solved using the sequential quadratic programming (SQP) algorithm in MATLAB. Finally, the performance of the proposed planner was evaluated through (i) comparison with an existing method, (ii) trajectory planning for different harbor entry and berth approach scenarios, and (iii) a feasibility study using predefined as well as stochastically generated initial conditions. The simulation results indicate improved berthing safety as well as practical and computational feasibility.
Residual pain and fatigue are affected by disease perception in rheumatoid arthritis in sustained clinical and ultrasound remission
Authors: Perniola Simone , Bruno Dario , Di Mario Clara , Campobasso Denise , Calabretta Martina , Gessi Marco , Petricca Luca , Tolusso Barbara , Alivernini Stefano , Gremese Elisa
Published: January 2025

Objective

Regardless of remission status, residual pain (RP) might persist in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The aim of this study was to characterize RP, its perception, and patient-dependent features and to evaluate its possible association with residual synovitis in patients with RA in remission.

Methods

Ninety-seven patients with RA, including 68 in sustained clinical and ultrasound remission (Rem/RA) and 29 in high/moderate DAS28-CRP disease activity (H-Mo/RA) were enrolled in the study. Thirty patients with fibromyalgia were enrolled as a control group(FIBRO). At study entry, demographic, clinical, ultrasound characteristics, and pain dimension assessment (VAS-pain, FACIT, CSI, GHQ, and RAID) were collected for each patient. RA patients underwent synovial tissue biopsy to evaluate the degree of synovitis using the Krenn synovitis score (KSS).

Results

Forty-eight percent of Rem/RA still declared unacceptable pain (VAS-Pain > 20) compared to 80% of H-Mo/RA patients (p < 0.0001). Furthermore, Rem/RA patients presented comparable levels of pain dimension assessment regardless of KSS. However, classifying Rem/RA group based on RAID score (< 2 as satisfied SAT-Rem/RA and ≥ 2 as unsatisfied UNSAT-Rem/RA), SAT-Rem/RA group presented a lower grade of VAS-Pain (p < 0.0001), lower percentage of patients with an unacceptable pain (p < 0.0001) and lower grade of fatigue(p < 0.0001) compared to the UNSAT-Rem/RA patients. The percentage of SAT-Rem/RA patients who presented a disease flare did not differ from UNSAT-Rem/RA over the 24 months of follow-up. Finally, female Rem/RA patients presented higher VAS-Pain compared to male Rem/RA (p = 0.0119).

Conclusions

Moreover,73% satisfied female Rem/Ra patients presented an acceptable pain compared to 23% unsatisfied female Rem/RA patients (p = 0.001). RP in RA patients in remission can represent the way by which the patients communicate their state of non-acceptance of the disease. It can be useful to treat RP with the appropriate treatments.

Key Points• Rheumatoid arthritis patients still reported unacceptable residual pain despite sustained clinical and ultrasound remission and despite the low grade/absence of histological synovitis.• Only a small rate of rheumatoid arthritis patients in sustained clinical and ultrasound remission showed residual pain as part of a central sensitivity syndrome or psychiatric disorders.• Rheumatoid arthritis patients in sustained clinical and ultrasound remission complained residual pain and fatigue as part of not acceptance of disease and/or dissatisfaction in the disease management.
Evaluating pulmonary stenosis and regurgitation impact on cardiac strain and strain rate in a porcine model via magnetic resonance feature tracking
Authors: Rösel Simon F. , Backhaus Sören J. , Lange Torben , Schulz Alexander , Kowallick Johannes T. , Gowda Kritika , Treiber Julia , Rolf Andreas , Sossalla Samuel T. , Hasenfuß Gerd , Kutty Shelby , Schuster Andreas
Published: January 2025

Background

Pulmonary stenosis (PS) is common in congenital heart disease and an integral finding in Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF). Pulmonary regurgitation (PR) is more commonly found following surgery in repaired TOF. We aimed to evaluate the haemodynamic effects of PS and PR on cardiac physiology in a porcine model using cardiac magnetic resonance-based feature tracking (CMR-FT) deformation imaging.

Methods

CMR-FT was performed in 14 pigs before and 10–12 weeks after surgery. Surgery included either pulmonary artery banding to simulate PS (n = 7), or an incision to the pulmonary valve to simulate PR (n = 7). CMR-FT assessment included left and right ventricular global longitudinal (LV/RV GLS) and LV circumferential (GCS) strain and strain rates (SR) as well as left and right atrial reservoir/conduit/booster pump (LA/RA Es, Ee, Ea) strain and SR.

Results

RV GLS was significantly reduced following PS compared to PR induction (PS -7.51 vs. PR -23.84, p < 0.001). RV GLS improved after induction of PR (before − 20.50 vs. after − 23.84, p = 0.018) as opposed to PS (before − 11.73 vs. after − 7.51, p = 0.128). Similarly, RA Es (PS 14.22 vs. PR 27.34, p = 0.017) and Ee (PS 8.65 vs. PR 20.51, p = 0.004) were decreased in PS compared to PR with detrimental impact of PS (Es before 23.20 vs. after 14.22, p = 0.018, Ee before 15.04 vs. after 8.65, p = 0.028) but not PR (Es before 31.65 vs. after 27.34, p = 0.176, Ee before 20.63 vs. after 20.51, p = 0.499).

Conclusions

In a porcine model of RV pressure vs. volume overload, increased after- but not preload shows detrimental impact on RV and RA physiology.
Developing a framework system for sustainability performance of cities: a case of Eskisehir city, Türkiye
Authors: Özbayrak Selcan , Özdemir Alp
Published: January 2025

This study aims to facilitates sustainable city assessment, which is extremely useful yet intricate, to evaluate sustainability of cities through the identification of both their strengths and areas that can be further improved. For this purpose, an easy-to-apply assessment framework was established, and a practical tool in MS Excel was developed using the framework. The framework consists of defining objectives, determining indicators, weighting the indicators, collecting indicator data, scaling, and normalizing indicator values, and calculating and evaluating the sustainability performance of cities. In this study, an indicator set was created using forty-five criteria aligned with the triple-bottom-line sustainability categories. The indicator set was weighted through a questionnaire study with experts, followed by a scaling study using minimum–maximum data values for normalization. Subsequently, criteria scores were calculated and aggregated within sub-indicators to assess sustainability performance of cities. A case study was conducted in Eskisehir city and its results were compared to average value from eighty-one cities in Türkiye. The results indicate that Eskisehir’s sustainability performance for indicators- environmental at 68%, social at 74%, and economic at 66% -yields an overall weighted average of approximately 69%, with the best performance in social indicators and the lowest in economic indicators. This study contributes to by developing of a globally applicable framework for city sustainability assessment. It enables individual evaluation of cities based on their sustainability goals and provides a practical tool for assessing urban sustainability performance. The findings provide key insights for guiding investments and policy decisions, supporting evidence-based approaches for researchers, stakeholders, and investors. The tool’s implications for urban development include improving air quality, waste management, economic growth, and social justice, making the study highly relevant for sustainable urban futures.
Horizon-bound objects: Kerr–Vaidya solutions
Authors: Dahal Pravin K. , Maharana Swayamsiddha , Simovic Fil , Terno Daniel R.
Published: January 2025

Kerr–Vaidya metrics are the simplest dynamical axially-symmetric solutions, all of which violate the null energy condition and thus are consistent with the formation of a trapped region in finite time according to distant observers. We examine different classes of Kerr–Vaidya metrics, and find two which possess spherically-symmetric counterparts that are compatible with the finite formation time of a trapped region. These solutions describe evaporating black holes and expanding white holes. We demonstrate a consistent description of accreting black holes based on the ingoing Kerr–Vaidya metric with increasing mass, and show that the model can be extended to cases where the angular momentum to mass ratio varies. For such metrics we describe conditions on their dynamical evolution required to maintain asymptotic flatness.Pathologies are also identified in the evaporating white hole geometry in the form of an intermediate singularity accessible by timelike observers. We also describe a generalization of the equivalence between Rindler and Schwarzschild horizons to Kerr–Vaidya black holes, and describe the relevant geometric constructions.
Understanding Marine Biodiversity Shifts in Southeast Greenland with Indigenous and Local Knowledge
Authors: Rathcke Kamilla , Qatsa Mathane , Burdenski Anna , Jacobsen Rikke Becker
Published: January 2025

We contribute to the identification of marine biodiversity status and changes in the coastal area of Southeast Greenland through consultation with holders of local and Indigenous knowledge (LEK/IK). Through in-depth interviews with coastal fishers and hunters in the Ammassalik area, we explore a range of changes to known and new species in relation to ecosystem dynamics. Key observations include diminishing presence of polar cod (Boreogadus saida), new abundance of known fish species (Gadus morhua, Salvelinus alpinus, Reinhardtius hippoglossoides, Cyclopterus lumpus), inflow of new/rare species of whales, fish, and shellfish (Oncorhynchus gorbuscha, Lamna nasus, Paralithodes camtschaticus, Physeter macrocephalus, Globicephala melas, Megaptera novaeangliae, Phocoena phocoena), and increasing absence in the fjords of some local seal species (Cystophora cristata and Pusa hispida). Observed changes in local abundances are understood with reference to the physical changes in temperature, ocean currents, glacier melt, and snowfall. Changed dynamics in prey-predator relationships are observed to mediate the local presence of target species. Other environmental changes include an influx of new food items in food chains and increased seaweed growth. Our study confirms the relevance and timeliness of systematically incorporating local and Indigenous knowledge to enhance the understanding of coastal marine dynamics in the context of climate change and the geographical ‘opening’ of the East Greenlandic region.
Additively manufactured polyethylene terephthalate-based high-gain multiband-flexible antenna for wireless mobile applications
Authors: Hassan Arshad , Saeed Ahtesham , Ali Shawkat , Cheema Hammad M. , Bermak Amine
Published: January 2025

This paper presents a novel additively manufactured antenna array on a flexible polymeric substrate for conformal mobile applications. The antenna consists of two identical z-shape patch elements integrated with symmetrical arrangements and right-angle ground assemblies to converge the dispersed radiation pattern for gain improvement. For planar feeding and fabrication, the antenna is fed with a coplanar waveguide and, horizontal defected ground structures are used in the patch to achieve multiband characteristics. The prototype antenna, fabricated with silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using precision piezoelectric inkjet-printing technique, exhibited operation across five different frequency bands: 0.58–0.83 GHz, 1.39–1.58 GHz, 2.40–2.43 GHz, 2.88–3.52 GHz, and 4.93–5.15 GHz, covering mobile radios, GPS, UMTS, Wi-Fi, ISM, Bluetooth, WLAN, WiMAX, and sub-6 GHz 5G applications. Surface morphological studies of deposited conductive pattern of silver nanoparticles are also evaluated to confirm its smooth and uniform deposition. The antenna demonstrates an omnidirectional pattern with a peak gain of 12 dBi at 3.21 GHz and a measured impedance bandwidth of 640 MHz that show a good agreement with the simulation. The prototype antenna is also tested under bent conditions (radius of 3, 4, and 5 cm) and, the measured performance depicts apart from the minor shift in S11, it still performs sufficiently well. Comparison with existing literature reveals a significant improvement in gain, making this antenna superior in performance. The antenna’s robust performance under deformation, combined with its high gain and multiband capabilities, makes it excellent candidate for wearable electronics and conformal wireless mobile communication applications. This work paves the way for future advancements in flexible and high-performance antennas for next-generation wireless technologies.
The influence of annealing temperature on the gas sensing properties of multifunctional hematite (α-Fe2O3) films
Authors: Sarf Fatma , Karaduman Er Irmak , Yakar Emin , Acar Selim
Published: January 2025

In this study, hematite (α-Fe2O3) were prepared using direct solution spin coating and the changes of some physical properties with annealing temperature (400, 500 and 600 °C) for 2 h were investigated. The sensors annealed at 400 °C, 500 °C and 600°C are referred to as F400, F500 and F600 respectively. The X-ray diffraction patterns of the prepared samples confirm the polycrystalline nature of the rhombohedral crystal structure of hematite (α-Fe2O3). The surface roughness parameters (SA-SQ) of the α-Fe2O3 films decreased drastically with increasing annealing temperature from 400 to 600 °C (57.47–68.08/13.63–17.13). The direct optical band gap values were estimated from absorption measurements and ranged from 2.77 to 2.52 eV. The electrical resistivity measurement at room temperature of the samples decreased with increasing annealing temperature from 400 to 600 °C. The response of the CO sensor of F400, F500 and F600 was found at 180 °C. The response to 1 ppm CO gas was calculated to be 1.45%, 8% and 10% for F400, F500 and F600 respectively. The wettability test of the samples showed a water contact angle (WCA) of less than 90°, demonstrating the hydrophilic surface especially for the samples annealed at 500 °C.
Evaluation of TOCSY mixing for sensitivity-enhancement in solid-state NMR and application of 4D experiments for side-chain assignments of the full-length 30 kDa membrane protein GlpG
Authors: Öster Carl , Chevelkov Veniamin , Lange Adam
Published: January 2025

Chemical shift assignments of large membrane proteins by solid-state NMR experiments are challenging. Recent advancements in sensitivity-enhanced pulse sequences, have made it feasible to acquire 1H-detected 4D spectra of these challenging protein samples within reasonable timeframes. However, obtaining unambiguous assignments remains difficult without access to side-chain chemical shifts. Drawing inspiration from sensitivity-enhanced TOCSY experiments in solution NMR, we have explored the potential of 13C- 13C TOCSY mixing as a viable option for triple sensitivity-enhanced 4D experiments aimed at side-chain assignments in solid-state NMR. Through simulations and experimental trials, we have identified optimal conditions to achieve uniform transfer efficiency for both transverse components and to minimize undesired cross-transfers. Our experiments, conducted on the 30 kDa membrane protein GlpG embedded in E. coli liposomes, have demonstrated enhanced sensitivity compared to the most effective dipolar and J-coupling-based 13C- 13C mixing sequences. Notably, a non-uniformly sampled 4D hCXCANH spectrum with exceptionally high sensitivity was obtained in just a few days using a 600 MHz spectrometer equipped with a 1.3 mm probe operating at a magic angle spinning rate of 55 kHz.
Nonconvex Quadratically-Constrained Feasibility Problems: An Inside-Ellipsoids Outside-Sphere Model
Authors: Abolpour Roozbeh , Hesamzadeh Mohammad Reza , Dehghani Maryam
Published: January 2025

This paper proposes a new approach for solving Quadratically Constrained Feasibility Problems (QCFPs). We introduce an isomorphic mapping (one-to-one and onto correspondence), which equivalently converts the QCFP to an optimization problem called the Inside-Ellipsoids Outside-Sphere Problem (IEOSP). This mapping preserves the convexity of convex constraints, but it converts all non-convex constraints to convex ones. The QCFP is a feasibility problem with non-convex constraints, while the IEOSP is an optimization problem with a convex feasible region and a non-convex objective function. It is shown that the global optimal solution of IEOSP is a feasible solution of the QCFP. Comparing the structures of QCFP and the proposed IEOSP, the second model only has one extra variable compared to the original QCFP because it employs one slack variable for the mapping. Thus, the problem dimension approximately remains unchanged. Due to the convexity of all constraints in IEOSP, it has a well-defined feasible region. Therefore, it can be solved much easier than the original QCFP. This paper proposes a solution algorithm for IEOSP that iteratively solves a convex optimization problem. The algorithm is mathematically shown to reach either a feasible solution of the QCFP or a local solution of the IEOSP. To illustrate our theoretical developments, a comprehensive numerical experiment is performed, and 500 different QCFPs are studied. All these numerical experiments confirm the promising performance and applicability of our theoretical developments in the current paper.
Krasnoselskii–Mann Iterations: Inertia, Perturbations and Approximation
Authors: Cortild Daniel , Peypouquet Juan
Published: January 2025

This paper is concerned with the study of a family of fixed point iterations combining relaxation with different inertial (acceleration) principles. We provide a systematic, unified and insightful analysis of the hypotheses that ensure their weak, strong and linear convergence, either matching or improving previous results obtained by analysing particular cases separately. We also show that these methods are robust with respect to different kinds of perturbations–which may come from computational errors, intentional deviations, as well as regularisation or approximation schemes–under surprisingly weak assumptions. Although we mostly focus on theoretical aspects, numerical illustrations in image inpainting and electricity production markets reveal possible trends in the behaviour of these types of methods.
Estimation of leaf area index in sagebrush steppe with low cost unoccupied aerial systems
Authors: Woodruff Craig D. , Clark Patrick E. , Olsoy Peter J. , Enterkine Josh
Published: January 2025

Context

Leaf area index (LAI) strongly influences the carbon and water cycle in drylands, but accurate estimation of LAI relies on field methods that are expensive and time intensive. Very high-resolution imagery from unoccupied aerial systems (UAS) offers a potential solution for monitoring LAI, but estimation methods derived from cost effective red, green, and blue (RGB) sensors are untested in these semi-arid ecosystems.

Objectives

The objective of our study was to test whether LAI could be estimated with very high resolution UAS collected RGB and canopy height data. Additionally, we sought to validate the model accuracy at the plot (1 m2) scale, test the accuracy at the macroplot (1 ha) scale, and assess the within plot impact of shadows.

Methods

We used a Random Forest machine learning model to estimate LAI in a Wyoming big sagebrush community in the Reynolds Creek Experimental Watershed using high resolution (< 1 cm2) UAS imagery collected in 2021 as predictors and plot scale point intercept (quadrat design) field data as the LAI reference.

Results

Random Forest modeled estimates of LAI were accurate at the plot (r2 = 0.69, MAE = 0.08, RMSE = 0.10), and the macroplot scales (error of 0.065), and mean within plot shadow error was 0.06.

Conclusions

This research demonstrates high resolution UAS data can rapidly and accurately estimate LAI, with a limited number of field measurements, potentially allowing land managers to survey seasonally and spatially heterogeneous LAI 1 hectare at a time over the vast rangelands in the Great Basin and similar ecosystems worldwide.
Joint plant-spraypoint detector with ConvNeXt modules and HistMatch normalization
Authors: Ford Jonathan , Sadgrove Edmund , Paul David
Published: January 2025

Context

Serrated tussock (Nassella trichotoma) is a weed of national significance in Australia which offers little to no nutritional value to livestock, and has the potential to reduce carrying capacity and agricultural return of infested pastures.

Aims

The aim of this study was to adapt existing Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) for plant segmentation and spraypoint detection in the challenging environments of pastures.

Methods

CNNs that were designed for joint plant and stem segmentation in crop fields were repurposed for dual-task applications in pastures. Given the poor performance of these models in complex pasture environments, a new model drawing inspiration from the recently proposed ConvNeXt was developed, tested for its effectiveness on unseen field data, and enhanced with a novel normalization technique, called HistMatch.

Key results

Experimentation demonstrated that unlike pre-existing models, which were designed for the simpler environments encountered in early-stage crop fields, our model was able to generalize well to growing conditions not seen during training, achieving 0.807 mIoU and 0.796 F1-score for the plant and spraypoint tasks respectively. This is in comparison to pre-existing models, which achieved 0.270 - 0.454 mIoU and 0.073 - 0.496 F1-score for the same tasks. These results were further improved to 0.854 mIoU and 0.806 F1-score using HistMatch normalization. In spite of greater model complexity, our model had a inference time of 15.7 ms which was comparable to pre-existing models, and suitable for real-time applications.

Conclusion

Models with greater complexity are required for the relatively complex environments encountered in pastures, but this greater complexity need not come at the expense of real time capability. HistMatch normalization can improve model accuracy, and is particularly effective in cases where models are struggling to generalize well to testing conditions that vary significantly from those seen during training.

Implications and impacts

The successful adaptation and improvement of CNNs for weed management in pastures could significantly reduce the reliance on blanket herbicide application. HistMatch normalization could also be considered for other agricultural applications, including weed management and disease detection in crop fields and orchards.
Dynamics of particle segregation and its impact on mechanical properties
Authors: Dai Shaoheng , Gao Feng , Niu Gang , He Xuzhen , Zhang Sheng , Sheng Daichao
Published: January 2025

Particle segregation is a widespread phenomenon in nature. Vertical vibration systems have been a focal point in studying particle segregation, providing valuable insights into the mechanisms and patterns that influence this process. However, despite extensive research on the mechanisms and patterns of particle separation, the consequences, particularly the mechanical properties of samples resulting from particle segregation, remain less understood. This study aims to investigate the segregation process of a binary mixture under vertical vibration and examine the consequences through monotonic and cyclic triaxial drained tests. The results reveal that large and small particles segregate nearly simultaneously, with more thorough separation observed for large particles. The segregation index, D

s
, effectively describes this evolution process, offering a quantitative metric for both mixing and segregation. Granular temperature analysis unveils three distinct states during segregation: solid-like, fluid-like, and solid–liquid transitional phase, corresponding to varying activity levels of particle segregation. Drained triaxial shear tests demonstrate the sensitivity of stress–strain relationships to the degree of segregation. Interestingly, ultimate strength is found to be essentially unrelated to the degree of segregation. When the segregation index approaches zero, signifying particles approaching a uniform distribution, the granular system reaches a harmonic state. This state exhibits optimal mechanical performance characterised by maximum peak stress, friction angle, and the highest elastic modulus. These findings underscore the potential impact of segregation on the mechanical response of granular mixtures and emphasise the necessity of a comprehensive understanding of particle segregation in soil mechanics.
Echocardiographic Updates in the Assessment of Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Liu Baoqiong , Suthar Kandarp , Gerula Christine M.
Published: January 2025

Purpose of Review

This review aims to provide an updated overview of the role of echocardiography in the assessment of cardiomyopathies, highlighting recent findings and technological advancements.

Recent Findings

Over the past few years, significant advancements in echocardiographic techniques have improved diagnostic accuracy and provided important prognostic value in the assessment of cardiomyopathies.

Cardiomyopathy is a group of diseases affecting the heart muscle. Echocardiography, a non-invasive imaging modality provides crucial information on cardiac structure, function, and hemodynamics. Recent advancements, including strain imaging, speckle-tracking, and 3D echocardiography enhance the precision of structural and functional assessments, while artificial intelligence integration improves diagnostic accuracy and workflow efficiency. These advancements not only refine diagnostic capabilities but also provide prognostic insights and facilitate better patient outcomes.
Witchcraft, Envy, and Norm Enforcement in Mauritius
Authors: Willard Aiyana K. , Rosun Nachita , Lesage Kirsten , Horský Jan , Xygalatas Dimitris
Published: January 2025

Recent research has shown that an array of religious beliefs can be used to enforce socially normative behaviour, but the application of these theories to other supernatural beliefs, including witchcraft, is still nascent. Across two pre-registered studies in Mauritius, we examine how witchcraft is believed to be caused by envy and how this belief can create and enforce social norms around not causing envy. Data was collected in-person in Mauritius. In study 1 (N = 445), we found that both practicing witchcraft and being motivated by envy or self-interest increase perceptions of harm. These motivations also increase the rate with which people suggest a person was doing witchcraft, with envy having the stronger effect. Belief that someone was doing witchcraft increases the negativity with which one views that person and damages their reputation. In study 2 (N = 292), we found that when a person breaks a norm around causing envy, participants believe that a subsequent misfortune is cause by witchcraft, but not by God. When someone acts selfishly towards others a subsequent misfortune is believed to be caused by God but not witchcraft. This suggests that witchcraft beliefs, but not religious ones, are enforcing norms around preventing envy. Together, these studies suggest that witchcraft beliefs can support locally specific social norms, and that these norms might be different than those supported by religion.
Sex dimorphic associations of Prader–Willi imprinted gene expressions in umbilical cord with prenatal and postnatal growth in healthy infants
Authors: Mas-Parés Berta , Carreras-Badosa Gemma , Gómez-Vilarrubla Ariadna , De Arriba-Muñoz Antonio , Lafalla-Bernard Olivia , Prats-Puig Anna , De Zegher Francis , Ibañez Lourdes , Haqq Andrea M. , Bassols Judit , Lopez-Bermejo Abel
Published: January 2025

Background

The impact of Prader–Willi syndrome (PWS) domain gene expression on the growth of healthy children is not well understood. This study investigated associations between PWS domain gene expression in umbilical cord tissue and prenatal and postnatal growth, considering potential sex differences.

Methods

Relative gene expression of paternally expressed MAGEL2, NDN, and SNURF-SNRPN, and the small nucleolar RNAs SNORD116 and SNORD115 were determined by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction in umbilical cord tissue from 122 healthy newborns (59 girls and 63 boys). Gene expression levels were correlated with auxological measures at birth, infancy, and childhood (ages 2, 4, and 6 years).

Results

MAGEL2, NDN, SNORD116, and SNORD115 expression in the umbilical cord was negatively associated with birth weight, length, and placental weight (P < 0.001). Postnatally, these genes were positively associated with weight and length at 3 months (P < 0.001) and weight gain from birth to ages 1, 2, and 4 years (P < 0.01). Negative associations at birth were stronger in girls (P < 0.001), while positive associations during infancy and childhood were stronger in boys (P < 0.001). MAGEL2, SNORD116, and SNORD115 expression predicted early-postnatal growth, explaining the higher growth rate in boys compared to girls and accounting for sex differences up to 1.5 kg in weight and 3 cm in height during infancy.

Conclusions

Paternally expressed PWS domain gene expression in the umbilical cord was negatively associated with prenatal growth and positively with early-postnatal growth in healthy infants. This gene expression may predict early human postnatal growth and promote the well-known sex dimorphism in growth. These results can also help in understanding the etiology of PWS, which remains unclear.

Graphical abstract
Significance of Avicennia Marina in the Arabian Gulf Environment: A Review
Authors: Haseeba Kaiprath Puthiyapurayil , Aboobacker Valliyil Mohammed , Vethamony Ponnumony , Al-Khayat Jassim Abdulla
Published: January 2025

Mangroves are ecologically important and highly productive intertidal plants that thrive in saline to brackish environments in tropical and subtropical shallow-water habitats. Avicennia marina is the only mangrove species found in the Arabian Gulf (hereafter the ‘Gulf’) coastal region, marking the northernmost boundary of mangroves in the Indo-Pacific region. This species predominantly inhabits sandy substrate with low organic content and is recognized for its high tolerance to extreme temperature and salinity variations. It has also proved its resilience to the impact of the Gulf War oil spill. Despite these challenges, mangrove ecosystems in this region continue to provide critical ecosystem services, sustaining biodiversity, livelihood support, climate change mitigation, and recreational opportunities. However, in the past two decades Gulf mangroves have been facing significant threats, including extensive coastal development, shoreline modification by establishing marinas and ports, and climate change-associated impacts such as sea-level rise and altered precipitation patterns, which pose significant risks to this fragile ecosystem. These challenges endanger mangrove ecosystems’ structure and productivity and present immediate and long-term risks to associated species and ecosystem services. However, recent years have witnessed successful mangrove restoration projects, leading to expansion and notable ecological advantages, including increased biodiversity and improved shoreline protection. This review addresses the current knowledge gap by providing an overview of Avicennia marina distribution in the Gulf, exploring the significance of its ecosystem services, analyzing the impacts of stressors, and examining conservation and restoration efforts, with attention to nature-based and biotechnological approaches for promoting mangrove growth and conservation in the Gulf.
Sequence-variable attention temporal convolutional network for volcanic lithology identification based on well logs
Authors: Feng Hanlin , Zhang Zitong , Zhang Chunlei , Zhong Chengcheng , Ma Qiaoyu
Published: January 2025

A Sequence-Variable Attention Temporal Convolutional Network (SVA-TCN) is proposed for lithology classification based on well log data. This study aims to address the issue that native TCN pays insufficient attention to crucial logging variables and sequence structural features in well log tasks. A novel Sequence-Variable Attention Mechanism module is designed to effectively extract features by adding the bidirectional attention mechanism, which comprises the sequence attention mechanism and the variable attention mechanism. The sequence attention mechanism, acting along the depth dimension, focuses on modeling the multiscale sequence features. The variable attention mechanism, working along the logging variable dimension, contributes to learning the importance of different logging variables and exploring the internal correlations among them. To verify the validity of the model, experiments are conducted in the volcanic reservoir of the Yingcheng Formation in the Xujiaweizi Depression of the Songliao Basin. Seven logging variables sensitive to lithological changes are selected, including compressional wave slowness, density, and compensated neutron logging, etc., to construct a lithology identification model using SVA-TCN. Compared with machine learning and deep learning methods, the SVA-TCN demonstrates a remarkable accuracy of 99.00%, surpassing the accuracy of the comparison methods by 0.37–17.69%. The findings of this study indicate that the SVA-TCN model is well-suited for lithology identification in volcanic reservoirs. It provides more reliable prediction results and exhibits good stability and generalization, offering a new avenue to volcanic lithology identification.
A variable transformation to box constraints for solving variational inequalities
Authors: Banz Lothar , Schröder Andreas
Published: January 2025

For a class of linear variational inequalities resulting, e.g., from Signorini contact problems, a simple variable transformation (or synonymously a basis transformation) can be used to convert the linear inequality constraints into simple box constraints. This enables the use of efficient, stable and simple to implement iterative solvers. This manuscript shows how this variable transformation can be implicitly incorporated within an accelerated projected SOR scheme (APSOR) as well as the primal-dual active set method. In particular, some possible acceleration steps are proposed and the global convergence of the APSOR scheme is proven. Moreover, some implementational aspects are discussed and it is demonstrated that the accelerated projected symmetric SOR scheme is competitive to the locally quadratic converging primal-dual active set method.
The role of green networks for environmental innovation in European regions
Authors: Fabrizi Andrea , Fiorelli Cristiana , Meliciani Valentina
Published: January 2025

This paper investigates the role of green research networks in green innovation capabilities (proxied by green patents) in European regions. Our hypothesis is based on the idea that cross-border collaboration facilitates the diffusion of knowledge, thereby favouring the green innovation of the regions belonging to the network. We exploit information contained in the European Framework Programmes by looking at the role of intra and extra-regional collaborations and at the diversity of institutional partners. We find that both intra and extra regional collaborations matter for green innovation, although external knowledge appears to be more relevant. We also find a positive effect of firms in the network, of projects involving both firms and universities and a non-linear effect of network heterogeneity. We discuss the implications of the results for green innovation policies.
App Assisted Depression Self-Management in Integrated Primary Care: A Pilot Study Exploring Patient and Provider Experiences
Authors: Johnson David J. , Emerson Margaret R. , Dinkel Danae , Thomas Robbin , Watanabe-Galloway Shinobu , Mickles Maria S. , Culjat Carli
Published: January 2025

The integrated primary care (IPC) setting is currently the de facto institution for accessing mental healthcare among underserved populations. However, many barriers exist for these populations when seeking regular and adequate mental healthcare, including provider availability and transportation challenges. This study piloted the incorporation of mindLAMP, a mHealth app, into IPC treatment to offer a low-resource intervention designed to improve and expand access to mental healthcare for underserved patients between face-to-face visits. This study gathered data from a sample of both behavioral health providers and patients (N = 6) in IPC settings to pilot the use of the mindLAMP app among traditionally underserved patients with depression. The Patient Activation Measure and Patient Health Questionnaire were used to assess patient outcomes in addition to conducting a directed content analysis on qualitative data obtained with interviews of both patients and providers. Results from the mixed methods study design indicate that implementing this digital intervention in the IPC setting is feasible and positively experienced by both patients and providers. Perceived positive outcomes were reported by both patients and providers after incorporating the mHealth app into their mental healthcare. However, both patients and providers discussed barriers to mHealth app use that need to be addressed in order to accommodate more widespread use. Further, constraints and barriers at the provider, patient, and healthcare system levels were discussed and need to be examined further to increase the implementation of this multilevel digital intervention.
Bivalve shell beds in the Triassic of the Sierra De Gádor (Alpujárride complex, Betic Cordillera, SE Spain)
Authors: Ros-Franch Sonia , Sola Fernando , Braga Juan C. , Márquez-Aliaga Ana
Published: January 2025

The Peñón the Bernal section in the Sierra de Gádor comprises a succession of limestones, marly limestones and marls in the upper part of the Gádor unit, which belongs to the Alpujárride Complex in the Internal Zones of the Betic Cordillera. Several shell beds in this section and the locality of La Zarba in the same unit include relatively well-preserved macroinvertebrate assemblages. These beds reflect shell concentrations caused by storms and later colonised by epifaunal communities of cemented, epibyssate and endobyssate bivalves. Sedimentary features, fossil traces, and composition of bivalve assemblages indicate that the succession accumulated in a peritidal environment in a restricted carbonate platform with cyclic changes in water depth. The identified bivalve and ammonoid taxa suggest a Ladinian (Middle Triassic) age for the limestones, marly limestones and marls culminating the Gádor unit, so far considered as Upper Triassic in age. Like in other domains in the Betic Cordillera, the macroinvertebrate fauna has strong affinities with the Sephardic bioprovince.
Dysfunctional Social Support: Delivering Social Support at Work in an Unappreciative Way
Authors: Semmer Norbert K. , Kälin Wolfgang , Amstad Fabienne T. , Tschan Franziska , Jacobshagen Nicola , Beehr Terry A. , Lehmann Mara , Elfering Achim
Published: January 2025

Self-esteem, both personal and social, constitutes a core concern for many people. Accordingly, Stress-as-Offense-to-Self theory focuses on threats, as well as boosts, to the self as important topics in occupational health science. Workplace social support is well established as a resource that signals acceptance and appreciation. At the same time, however, social support, notably support actually received, as opposed to perceived support availability, has been shown to have the potential to “backfire” and act as a stressor rather than a resource. The current study emphasizes the potential of social support to constitute a threat to the self if not delivered appropriately, that is, if it contains derogatory messages, even minor ones. The “Bern
Dysfunctional Social Support Scale” (BDSSS) focuses on such threats entailed in supportive attempts, focusing on provider behavior rather than recipient reactions and covering a broader range of (mostly subtle) derogatory behaviors than previously existing measures. In a cross-sectional study of 468 Swiss employees, it was associated with strain and attitudes in a way that characterizes it as a stressor. Effects were not strong, but dysfunctional support explained variance over and above demographic characteristics, neuroticism, classical social stressors, task stressors, and functional social support, as well as the outcome variables from a previous wave of measurement. The BDSSS therefore constitutes a valuable complement to existing measures. Although further research on this issue is needed, results underscore the need to sensitize employees and supervisors about pitfalls of support that is well intended but delivered in a potentially offending way.