bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The IGCP 714 Project “3GEO – Geoclimbing & Geotrekking in Geoparks” – Selection of Geodiversity Sites Equipped for Climbing for Combining Outdoor and Multimedia Activities
Authors: Bollati Irene Maria , Masseroli Anna , Al Kindi Mohammed , Cezar Lucas , Chrobak-Žuffová Anna , Dongre Ashish , Fassoulas Charalampos , Fazio Eugenio , Garcia-Rodríguez Manuel , Knight Jasper , Matthews Jack J. , de Araújo Pereira Ricardo Galeno Fraga , Viani Cristina , Williams Mark , Amato Giuseppe M. , Apuani Tiziana , de Castro Emanuel , Fernández-Escalante Enrique , Fernandes Magda , Forzese Martina , Gianotti Franco , Goyanes Gabriel , Loureiro Fabio , Kandekar Avinash , Koleandrianou Maria , Maniscalco Rosanna , Nikolakakis Emmanouel , Palomba Mauro , Pelfini Manuela , Tronti Gianluca , Zanoletti Enrico , Zerboni Andrea , Zucali Michele
Published: July 2024

The IGCP 714 project “3GEO – Geoclimbing & Geotrekking in Geoparks” is financed by the International Geoscience Programme (IGCP) and supported by the International Union of Geological Sciences (IUGS). In this paper, we report on the results of the first phase of the project focused on the criteria to be adopted to select geodiversity sites equipped for climbing or trekking. The selection of geoclimbing sites and geotrekking routes is aimed at combining multimedia tools and outdoor activities for Geosciences promotion and conservation in UNESCO Global Geoparks, aspiring geoparks or geoparks project, and also in protected areas featuring geoheritage sites. Indeed, both outdoor activities and multimedia tools favour the pursuing of many of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (e.g., 3, 4, 8, 11). An international consortium of geoscientists from 12 different countries selected, through the proposed procedure, 22 geoclimbing sites, and then they also detected 30 geotrekking routes mirroring Earth geodiversity. At some test sites (geoclimbing and geotrekking) multimedia tools and digital outcrop models have been developed through different methodological approaches (e.g., Structure from Motion and Multi-View Stereo photogrammetry), to open the way to the second part of the project still in progress. These sites and the relative virtual models are herein also shown. The final aim of the IGCP 714 project is indeed to create an open data repository (digital outcrop models, videos, virtual tours, photos, scientific information, and interpretations) to upload data of the selected sites to mirror Earth geodiversity for different users including tourists and school groups.
Formulating facial mesh tracking as a differentiable optimization problem: a backpropagation-based solution
Authors: Peng Siran , Zhu Xiangyu , Yi Dong , Qian Chen , Lei Zhen
Published: July 2024

Facial mesh tracking enables the production of topologically consistent 3D facial meshes from stereo video input captured by calibrated cameras. This technology is an integral part of many digital human applications, such as personalized avatar creation, audio-driven 3D facial animation, and talking face video generation. Currently, most facial mesh tracking methods are built on computer graphics techniques, which involve complex procedures and often necessitate human annotation within pipelines. As a result, these approaches are difficult to implement and hard to generalize across various scenarios. We propose a backpropagation-based solution that formulates facial mesh tracking as a differentiable optimization problem called the BPMT. Our solution leverages visual clues extracted from the stereo input to estimate vertex-wise geometry and texture information. The BPMT is composed of two steps: automatic face analysis and mesh tracking. In the first step, a range of visual clues are automatically extracted from the input, including facial point clouds, multi-view 2D landmarks, 3D landmarks in the world coordinate system, motion fields, and image masks. The second step can be viewed as a differentiable optimization problem, with constraints comprising stereo video input and facial clues. The primary objective is to achieve topologically consistent 3D facial meshes across frames. Additionally, the parameters to be optimized encompass the positions of free-form deformed vertices and a shared texture UV map. Furthermore, the 3D morphable model (3DMM) is introduced as a form of regularization to enhance the convergence of the optimization process. Leveraging the fully developed backpropagation software, we progressively register the facial meshes to the recorded object, generating high-quality 3D faces with consistent topologies. The BPMT requires no manual labeling within the pipeline, making it suitable for producing large-scale stereo facial data. Moreover, our method exhibits a high degree of flexibility and extensibility, positioning it as a promising platform for future research in the community.
Influence of spawning year and size on reproductive parameters in adult European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax)
Authors: Fath El-Bab Ahmed F. , El-Saiegh Samah S. , Abd-Elghany Mohamed F. , Khalifa Gomaa A. , Naiel Mohammed A. E.
Published: July 2024

The current study sought to investigate the impact of the spawning year (SY) and mature female brooder weights (FBW) on the reproductive performance of Dicentrarchus labrax. In three fiberglass circular tanks, a total of 60 mature female brooders of Dicentrarchus labrax were allocated into three equal weight classes; < 1500, > 1500–< 2000 and > 2000–< 2500 g, respectively. The findings showed that the SY and FBW considerably affected on the final egg biomass per each female (EW/F) and diameter of spawned eggs (ED). For the two studied years, the averages of absolute and relative fecundity values that were significantly (P < 0.001) influenced by the SY are 71,924.16 and 51,168.24, and 43.01 and 43.21. Also, absolute fecundity increased noticeably with the maximal FBW. The hatchability % was strongly affected by SY and FBW. The average number of produced larvae per fish increased significantly (P < 0.001) with SY and highest FBW. The findings implied that FBW in correlation to SY can predict the production of a higher number of progenies from mature sea bass female fish, from which to develop novel approaches for selecting brooders during the spawning season.
Validation of the German Version of the Moral Disengagement in Doping Scale
Authors: Manges Theresa , Walter Nadja , Elbe Anne-Marie
Published: July 2024

Abstract: As an athlete’s moral disengagement is one of the strongest predictors for doping intention, the purpose of the present study was to validate a German version of the Moral Disengagement in Doping Scale (MDDS; Kavussanu et al., 2016 ) by examining its psychometric properties. In a sample of 1,038 athletes, confirmatory factor analyses (CFAs) replicated the postulated one-dimensional structure of the scale, and further analyses indicated acceptable internal consistency and retest reliability. Multigroup CFAs confirmed the measurement invariance across different subsamples as well as across male and female participants. Moreover, construct (criterion) validity was established in a subsample of 724 athletes through correlations between the MDDS-D and related constructs such as doping intention and susceptibility, anticipated guilt, and collective moral norms. Taken together, these results suggest that the MDDS-D is a suitable instrument for measuring doping moral disengagement in the German language area, which may be especially beneficial for the evaluation of doping prevention programs focusing on moral variables.
Comparative Analysis of Gravity Wave Characteristics in China and the United States Using High Vertical Resolution Radiosonde Observations
Authors: Chen Qiying , Wu Hongkun , Long Haichuan , Liang Xin‐Zhong
Published: July 2024

The characteristics of gravity waves in China are investigated through an extensive analysis of high vertical resolution radiosonde observations collected over eight years across 120 stations, and are subsequently compared to those in the United States. These characteristics encompass energy density, intrinsic frequencies, horizontal and vertical wavelengths, as well as vertical and horizonal propagation directions. China and the United States, situated in mid‐latitude regions with prominent western topographical features, the Qinghai‐Tibet Plateau and Rocky Mountains respectively, demonstrate striking similarities in the generation and distribution of gravity waves. Both landmasses exhibit the strongest gravity waves during winter and the weakest during summer. And within the troposphere, the maximum energy of gravity waves is generated over and immediately downstream of the topographies. In addition, the energy level is amplified in the lower stratosphere. However, unique regional contrasts in summer are result from the differences of summer monsoon influence and the distinct western topographies. The maximum gravity wave energy in summer troposphere is observed over the north side of the Qinghai‐Tibet Plateau in China, contrasting with its location downstream of the Rockies in the United States.
Volatile Transport on Ariel and Implications for the Origin and Distribution of Carbon Dioxide on Uranian Moons
Authors: Menten Stephanie M. , Sori Michael M. , Bramson Ali M. , Nordheim Tom A. , Cartwright Richard J.
Published: July 2024

The moons of Uranus have only been visited once by Voyager 2 during its 1986 flyby. Earth‐based telescopic observations show a spectral signature of carbon dioxide ice on the Uranian moons Ariel, Umbriel, Titania, and Oberon, with a somewhat higher abundance on their trailing hemispheres. The inner major moon Ariel exhibits the strongest carbon dioxide ice absorption bands, which then decrease in strength with increasing orbital distance from Uranus, with the outer major moon Oberon exhibiting the weakest absorption bands. Previous work has suggested that these hemispherical and radial trends result from radiolytic production of carbon dioxide ice from interactions between the moons' surfaces and charged particles trapped in Uranus' magnetosphere. Here, we use volatile transport modeling to characterize a possible migration cycle of carbon dioxide on Ariel. We find that carbon dioxide is readily mobilized toward Ariel's equator, and that existing topography such as canyons are locations of favorable deposition for carbon dioxide ice. We predict the presence of carbon dioxide ice deposits on the floors of Ariel's canyons. Our work suggests two possible classes of sources of carbon dioxide: an active source, which may be consistent with either radiolytic production from Uranus' magnetosphere or outgassing from Ariel's interior, or an ancient source that produced CO2 that still exists in stable canyon deposits. A future Uranus orbiter could determine which hypothesis is most likely, or if carbon dioxide could be found both in the form of ice deposits on the surface and in a global exosphere.
A Hybrid Machine Learning/Physics‐Based Modeling Framework for 2‐Week Extended Prediction of Tropical Cyclones
Authors: Liu Hao‐Yan , Tan Zhe‐Min , Wang Yuqing , Tang Jianping , Satoh Masaki , Lei Lili , Gu Jian‐Feng , Zhang Yi , Nie Gao‐Zhen , Chen Qi‐Zhi
Published: July 2024

Prediction of tropical cyclones (TCs) beyond a week is challenging but of great importance for disaster prevention and mitigation. We propose a hybrid machine learning (ML)/physics‐based modeling framework to extend TC forecasts to 2 weeks. This framework integrates a recently launched ML‐based global weather prediction model (Pangu) and the high‐resolution physics‐based regional weather research and forecasting (WRF) model. The Pangu model shows promise in enhancing the accuracy of predictions for large‐scale circulation and TC tracks, while the high‐resolution WRF model is capable of capturing the core processes underlying TC evolution. To capitalize on the complementary strengths of both the Pangu and WRF models in predicting TCs, the framework comprises three key components: downscaling the Pangu model using the WRF model, adjusting large‐scale circulation through spectral nudging driven by the Pangu model forecasts, and updating sea surface temperature using an ocean mixed‐layer model. These components also ensure the framework's feasibility for real‐time TC forecasting. The prediction skill of the framework has been demonstrated for five long‐lived TCs across various basins from 2018 to 2023. Results indicate that the hybrid ML/physics‐based modeling framework decreased the 2‐week mean TC track and intensity errors by 59% and 32% compared to the global numerical weather prediction models, by 2% and 59% compared to the ERA5‐driven Pangu model, and by 32% and 23% compared to the ERA5‐driven WRF model, respectively. This implies that the framework has great potential to be used for 2‐week extended prediction of TCs.
Clinical outcomes of short dental implants supporting prostheses in the posterior region
Authors: Hirani Murtaza , Arnantha Hannah , Al-Mossallami Azza , Paolinelis George
Published: July 2024

Aim In clinically challenging scenarios with limited bone height and anatomical restrictions, the use of short implants have been proposed as a potential treatment strategy. The purpose of this retrospective study was to evaluate the clinical outcomes of short implants supporting prostheses in the posterior premolar region of the maxilla and mandible.

Materials and methods A total of 30 patients requiring short 6 mm length implant placement in the posterior premolar region were included. Following a period of osseointegration, the implants were restored with either single crowns, fixed bridges or implant-supported removable overdentures. Implant and prosthetic survival with technical complications were recorded.

Results In total, 45 implants were placed, with four failures reported before loading in two patients, resulting in a patient implant survival rate of 93.3% over the two-year follow-up. There was no statistically significant difference found between implant failure and arch placement. Prosthetic survival was 100% and minor technical complications recorded were low.

Conclusion This study showed that short 6 mm implants could provide a viable treatment option, with high survival rates comparable with alternative bone augmentation procedures. Further research with longer observation periods would be required to validate these current findings.
Whole cervix imaging of collagen, muscle, and cellularity in term and preterm pregnancy
Authors: Wu Wenjie , Sun Zhexian , Gao Hansong , Nan Yuan , Pizzella Stephanie , Xu Haonan , Lau Josephine , Lin Yiqi , Wang Hui , Woodard Pamela K. , Krigman Hannah R. , Wang Qing , Wang Yong
Published: July 2024

Cervical softening and dilation are critical for the successful term delivery of a fetus, with premature changes associated with preterm birth. Traditional clinical measures like transvaginal ultrasound and Bishop scores fall short in predicting preterm births and elucidating the cervix’s complex microstructural changes. Here, we introduce a magnetic resonance diffusion basis spectrum imaging (DBSI) technique for non-invasive, comprehensive imaging of cervical cellularity, collagen, and muscle fibers. This method is validated through ex vivo DBSI and histological analyses of specimens from total hysterectomies. Subsequently, retrospective in vivo DBSI analysis at 32 weeks of gestation in ten term deliveries and seven preterm deliveries with inflammation-related conditions shows distinct microstructural differences between the groups, alongside significant correlations with delivery timing. These results highlight DBSI’s potential to improve understanding of premature cervical remodeling and aid in the evaluation of therapeutic interventions for at-risk pregnancies. Future studies will further assess DBSI’s clinical applicability.
The neurotransmitter calcitonin gene-related peptide shapes an immunosuppressive microenvironment in medullary thyroid cancer
Authors: Hou Yingtong , Lin Bo , Xu Tianyi , Jiang Juan , Luo Shuli , Chen Wanna , Chen Xinwen , Wang Yuanqi , Liao Guanrui , Wang Jianping , Zhang Jiayuan , Li Xuyang , Xiang Xiao , Xie Yubin , Wang Ji , Peng Sui , Lv Weiming , Liu Yihao , Xiao Haipeng
Published: July 2024

Neurotransmitters are key modulators in neuro-immune circuits and have been linked to tumor progression. Medullary thyroid cancer (MTC), an aggressive neuroendocrine tumor, expresses neurotransmitter calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), is insensitive to chemo- and radiotherapies, and the effectiveness of immunotherapies remains unknown. Thus, a comprehensive analysis of the tumor microenvironment would facilitate effective therapies and provide evidence on CGRP’s function outside the nervous system. Here, we compare the single-cell landscape of MTC and papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) and find that expression of CGRP in MTC is associated with dendritic cell (DC) abnormal development characterized by activation of cAMP related pathways and high levels of Kruppel Like Factor 2 (KLF2), correlated with an impaired activity of tumor infiltrating T cells. A CGRP receptor antagonist could offset CGRP detrimental impact on DC development in vitro. Our study provides insights of the MTC immunosuppressive microenvironment, and proposes CGRP receptor as a potential therapeutic target.
Emittance preservation in a plasma-wakefield accelerator
Authors: Lindstrøm C. A. , Beinortaitė J. , Björklund Svensson J. , Boulton L. , Chappell J. , Diederichs S. , Foster B. , Garland J. M. , González Caminal P. , Loisch G. , Peña F. , Schröder S. , Thévenet M. , Wesch S. , Wing M. , Wood J. C. , D’Arcy R. , Osterhoff J.
Published: July 2024

Radio-frequency particle accelerators are engines of discovery, powering high-energy physics and photon science, but are also large and expensive due to their limited accelerating fields. Plasma-wakefield accelerators (PWFAs) provide orders-of-magnitude stronger fields in the charge-density wave behind a particle bunch travelling in a plasma, promising particle accelerators of greatly reduced size and cost. However, PWFAs can easily degrade the beam quality of the bunches they accelerate. Emittance, which determines how tightly beams can be focused, is a critical beam quality in for instance colliders and free-electron lasers, but is particularly prone to degradation. We demonstrate, for the first time, emittance preservation in a high-gradient and high-efficiency PWFA while simultaneously preserving charge and energy spread. This establishes that PWFAs can accelerate without degradation—an essential step toward energy boosters in photon science and multistage facilities for compact high-energy particle colliders.
A single-particle mechanofluorescent sensor
Authors: Ahmadi Narges , Lee Jieun , Godiya Chirag Batukbhai , Kim Jong-Man , Park Bum Jun
Published: July 2024

Monitoring mechanical stresses in microchannels is challenging. Herein, we report the development of a mechanofluorescence sensor system featuring a fluorogenic single polydiacetylene (PDA) particle, fabricated using a co-flow microfluidic method. We construct a stenotic vessel-mimicking capillary channel, in which the hydrodynamically captured PDA particle is subjected to controlled fluid flows. Fluorescence responses of the PDA particle are directly monitored in real time using fluorescent microscopy. The PDA particle displays significant nonlinear fluorescence emissions influenced by fluid viscosity and the presence of nanoparticles and biomolecules in the fluid. This nonlinear response is likely attributed to the torsion energy along the PDA’s main chain backbone. Computational fluid dynamic simulations indicate that the complete blue-to-red transition necessitates ~307 μJ, aligning with prior research. We believe this study offers a unique advantage for simulating specific problematic regions of the human body in an in vitro environment, potentially paving the way for future exploration of difficult-to-access areas within the body.
Global patterns and drivers of fish reproductive potential on coral reefs
Authors: Hadj-Hammou Jeneen , Cinner Joshua E. , Barneche Diego R. , Caldwell Iain R. , Mouillot David , Robinson James P. W. , Schiettekatte Nina M. D. , Siqueira Alexandre C. , Taylor Brett M. , Graham Nicholas A. J.
Published: July 2024

Fish fecundity scales hyperallometrically with body mass, meaning larger females produce disproportionately more eggs than smaller ones. We explore this relationship beyond the species-level to estimate the “reproductive potential” of 1633 coral reef sites distributed globally. We find that, at the site-level, reproductive potential scales hyperallometrically with assemblage biomass, but with a smaller median exponent than at the species-level. Across all families, modelled reproductive potential is greater in fully protected sites versus fished sites. This difference is most pronounced for the important fisheries family, Serranidae. When comparing a scenario where 30% of sites are randomly fully protected to a current protection scenario, we estimate an increase in the reproductive potential of all families, and particularly for Serranidae. Such results point to the possible ecological benefits of the 30 × 30 global conservation target and showcase management options to promote the sustainability of population replenishment.
Ferroelectric polarization and magnetic structure at domain walls in a multiferroic film
Authors: Tao Ang , Jiang Yixiao , Chen Shanshan , Zhang Yuqiao , Cao Yi , Yao Tingting , Chen Chunlin , Ye Hengqiang , Ma Xiu-Liang
Published: July 2024

Domain walls affect significantly ferroelectric and magnetic properties of magnetoelectric multiferroics. The stereotype is that the ferroelectric polarization will reduce at the domain walls due to the incomplete shielding of depolarization field or the effects of gradient energy. By combining transmission electron microscopy and first-principles calculations, we demonstrate that the ferroelectric polarization of tail-to-tail 180° domain walls in ε-Fe2O3is regulated by the bound charge density. A huge enhancement (43%) of ferroelectric polarization is observed in the type I domain wall with a low bound charge density, while the ferroelectric polarization is reduced to almost zero at the type II domain wall with a high bound charge density. The magnetic coupling across the type I and type II ferroelectric domain walls are antiferromagnetic and ferromagnetic, respectively. Revealing mechanisms for enhancing ferroelectric polarization and magnetic behaviors at ferroelectric domain walls may promote the fundamental research and potential applications of magnetoelectric multiferroics.
Self-consistent signal transduction analysis for modeling context-specific signaling cascades and perturbations
Authors: Cole John
Published: July 2024

Biological signal transduction networks are central to information processing and regulation of gene expression across all domains of life. Dysregulation is known to cause a wide array of diseases, including cancers. Here I introduce self-consistent signal transduction analysis, which utilizes genome-scale -omics data (specifically transcriptomics and/or proteomics) in order to predict the flow of information through these networks in an individualized manner. I apply the method to the study of endocrine therapy in breast cancer patients, and show that drugs that inhibit estrogen receptor α elicit a wide array of antitumoral effects, and that their most clinically-impactful ones are through the modulation of proliferative signals that control the genes GREB1, HK1, AKT1, MAPK1, AKT2, and NQO1. This method offers researchers a valuable tool in understanding how and why dysregulation occurs, and how perturbations to the network (such as targeted therapies) effect the network itself, and ultimately patient outcomes.
Lysine l-lactylation is the dominant lactylation isomer induced by glycolysis
Authors: Zhang Di , Gao Jinjun , Zhu Zhijun , Mao Qianying , Xu Zhiqiang , Singh Pankaj K. , Rimayi Cornelius C. , Moreno-Yruela Carlos , Xu Shuling , Li Gongyu , Sin Yi-Cheng , Chen Yue , Olsen Christian A. , Snyder Nathaniel W. , Dai Lunzhi , Li Lingjun , Zhao Yingming
Published: July 2024

Lysine l-lactylation (Kl-la) is a novel protein posttranslational modification (PTM) driven by l-lactate. This PTM has three isomers: Kl-la, N-ε-(carboxyethyl)-lysine (Kce) and d-lactyl-lysine (Kd-la), which are often confused in the context of the Warburg effect and nuclear presence. Here we introduce two methods to differentiate these isomers: a chemical derivatization and high-performance liquid chromatography analysis for efficient separation, and isomer-specific antibodies for high-selectivity identification. We demonstrated that Kl-la is the primary lactylation isomer on histones and dynamically regulated by glycolysis, not Kd-la or Kce, which are observed when the glyoxalase system was incomplete. The study also reveals that lactyl-coenzyme A, a precursor in l-lactylation, correlates positively with Kl-la levels. This work not only provides a methodology for distinguishing other PTM isomers, but also highlights Kl-la as the primary responder to glycolysis and the Warburg effect.
The asymptotic solutions for the motion of a charged symmetric gyrostat in the irrational frequency case
Authors: Amer T. S. , Abady I. M. , Abdo H. A. , El-Kafly H. F.
Published: July 2024

The primary objective of this study is to explore the spatial rotary movements of a symmetrically charged rigid body (RB) that is rotating around a fixed point, akin to Lagrange’s scenario as a novel scenario where its center of mass experiences a slight displacement from the symmetry dynamic axis. The body’s movement is presumed to be affected by a gyrostatic moment and a force from an electromagnetic field, attributed to the presence of a located point charge on this axis. The regulating equations of motion that are pertaining to the equations Euler–Poisson are solved through the utilization of Poincaré’s small parameter method along with its adaptations when the scenario of irrational frequencies is considered. The three angles of Euler are derived and graphed to ascertain the body’s position at any point throughout the motion. The temporal evolutions of the achieved outcomes are drawn to showcase the significant impact of the selected parameters on the motion. The phase plane diagrams have been generated to illustrate the stability of the body during the motion. The novelty of studying the rotatory motion of a charged RB under these specific conditions lies in the intricate interplay of gyrostatic effects, magnetic interactions, and nonlinear dynamics. This research can push the boundaries of theoretical mechanics and provide valuable insights and tools for both theoretical advancements and practical applications. Moreover, the achieved results from this analysis can be utilized to improve the dynamic performance of diverse engineering applications, particularly those dependent on gyroscopic theory. This includes enhancing the functionality of satellites, compasses, submarines, and automatic pilots used in aircraft. Essentially, the findings have practical implications for optimizing the performance and stability of these systems.
Machine learning and interactive GUI for concrete compressive strength prediction
Authors: Elshaarawy Mohamed Kamel , Alsaadawi Mostafa M. , Hamed Abdelrahman Kamal
Published: July 2024

Concrete compressive strength (CS) is a crucial performance parameter in concrete structure design. Reliable strength prediction reduces costs and time in design and prevents material waste from extensive mixture trials. Machine learning techniques solve structural engineering challenges such as CS prediction. This study used Machine Learning (ML) models to enhance the prediction of CS, analyzing 1030 experimental CS data ranging from 2.33 to 82.60 MPa from previous research databases. The ML models included both non-ensemble and ensemble types. The non-ensemble models were regression-based, evolutionary, neural network, and fuzzy-inference-system. Meanwhile, the ensemble models consisted of adaptive boosting, random forest, and gradient boosting. There were eight input parameters: cement, blast-furnace-slag, aggregates (coarse and fine), fly ash, water, superplasticizer, and curing days, with the CS as the output. Comprehensive performance evaluations include visual and quantitative methods and k-fold cross-validation to assess the study’s reliability and accuracy. A sensitivity analysis using Shapley-Additive-exPlanations (SHAP) was conducted to understand better how each input variable affects CS. The findings showed that the Categorical-Gradient-Boosting (CatBoost) model was the most accurate prediction during the testing stage. It had the highest determination-coefficient (R2) of 0.966 and the lowest Root-Mean-Square-Error (RMSE) of 3.06 MPa. The SHAP analysis showed that the age of the concrete was the most critical factor in the predictive accuracy. Finally, a Graphical User Interface (GUI) was offered for designers to predict concrete CS quickly and economically instead of costly computational or experimental tests.
Targeted co-expression networks for the study of traits
Authors: Gómez-Pascual A. , Rocamora-Pérez G. , Ibanez L. , Botía J. A.
Published: July 2024

Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA) is a widely used approach for the generation of gene co-expression networks. However, networks generated with this tool usually create large modules with a large set of functional annotations hard to decipher. We have developed TGCN, a new method to create Targeted Gene Co-expression Networks. This method identifies the transcripts that best predict the trait of interest based on gene expression using a refinement of the LASSO regression. Then, it builds the co-expression modules around those transcripts. Algorithm properties were characterized using the expression of 13 brain regions from the Genotype-Tissue Expression project. When comparing our method with WGCNA, TGCN networks lead to more precise modules that have more specific and yet rich biological meaning. Then, we illustrate its applicability by creating an APP-TGCN on The Religious Orders Study and Memory and Aging Project dataset, aiming to identify the molecular pathways specifically associated with APP role in Alzheimer’s disease. Main biological findings were further validated in two independent cohorts. In conclusion, we provide a new framework that serves to create targeted networks that are smaller, biologically relevant and useful in high throughput hypothesis driven research. The TGCN R package is available on Github: https://github.com/aliciagp/TGCN.
Higher processing repeatability of myocardial flow reserve calculated using net retention model compared to one compartment model in SPECT studies
Authors: Cichocki Pawel , Plachcinska Anna , Blaszczyk Michal , Adamczewski Zbigniew
Published: July 2024

Dynamic assessment of myocardial blood flow (MBF) and myocardial flow reserve (MFR) provides additional information that can improve diagnostic accuracy of radionuclide myocardial perfusion imaging in some clinical situations. This study assessed processing repeatability of these parameters calculated using two models—net retention (RET) and one compartment (1CM) in dynamic SPECT studies, using the latest version of Corridor 4DM software (v2024). Data of 107 patients were analyzed retrospectively (57 of whom were assessed in our previous study using 4DM v2015). Dynamic SPECT studies were carried out using a routine two-day rest-dipyridamole protocol. Data was processed in 4DM v2024 twice by one operator and once by another operator. Automatic heart image positioning during post-processing in 4DM v2024 was significantly improved compared to v2015, reducing the number of studies requiring extensive manual corrections from 41 to 12%. This significantly improved interobserver processing repeatability of MFR values in RCA territory compared to our previous study using v2015—from r = 0.67 to 0.85 (p = 0.0034). Interobserver processing repeatability of MBF and MFR in all 107 patients was significantly better in RET model compared to 1CM model. In conclusion, RET model is more reliable for calculating MBF and MFR values based on dynamic SPECT studies.
Injectable Smart Nanocomposite Hydrogels for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Zeinali R. , Tzanov T.
Published: July 2024

Due to numerous beneficial features, injectable smart NC hydrogels are attractive alternatives for many biomedical applications. Their soft hydrated three-dimensional (3D) porous structure and excellent biocompatibility account for the broad application of these biomaterials for the delivery of cells, signaling and bioactive molecules, and also pharmaceuticals. Moreover, injectable hydrogels provide minimally-invasive delivery to the patient’s body and their stimuli-responsiveness allows for on-demand and site-specific release of the active load with controllable kinetics. Nanomaterials as both structural and functional elements in the hydrogels endow them with enhanced properties and advanced functionalities, improving their efficacy for specific biomedical uses. Tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, drug delivery systems, cancer therapy and wound healing are the most frequently explored and reported applications of this class of biomaterials in the biomedical sector that have been specifically addressed in this chapter.
Injectable Smart Hydrogels for Wound Management
Authors: AlAnsari Renad , Thadhani Jainisha , Hasan Bushra , Henari Fryad , Torsten Uwe , Deen G. Roshan
Published: July 2024

Injectable smart hydrogels offer unique and valuable properties and are ideal candidates for targeted biomedical applications. Among the numerous advantages, injectable and stimuli-responsive properties are the most important factors that determine the therapeutic efficiency of these materials in tissue engineering and wound healing applications. These biomaterials are an attractive option for chronic wounds due to their inherent ability to fill wound defects of any geometry, provide a scaffold for regeneration of the extracellular matrix and accelerate the wound healing process. This chapter briefly summarizes the important criteria that need to be considered in the development of smart injectable hydrogels for wound healing applications. The process of wound healing and applications of various smart injectable hydrogels in cellular therapies and wound management are also discussed in this chapter.
Effects of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum CCFM1214 and Ligilactobacillus salivarius CCFM1215 on halitosis: a double-blind, randomized controlled trial
Authors: Ding Lijiang , Wang Yueyan , Jiang Zhentao , Tang Xin , Mao Bingyong , Zhao Jianxin , Chen Wei , Zhang Qiuxiang , Cui Shumao
Published: July 2024

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of known probiotic species Lactiplantibacillus plantarum CCFM1214 and Ligilactobacillus salivarius CCFM1215 on halitosis, the oral status, and the oral microbiome.
Thermal behavior of the dielectric response of composites based on poly(vinylidene fluoride) filled with two-dimensional V2CTx MXenes
Authors: Tsyganov Alexey , Vikulova Maria , Zotov Ilya , Grapenko Olga , Vlasenko Valery , Bainyashev Alexey , Gorokhovsky Alexander , Gorshkov Nikolay
Published: July 2024

In this study, two-dimensional V2CTx MXenes were prepared by an accessible and rapid method, which involved aluminothermic combustion synthesis of the V2AlC MAX phase and its further processing in an HCl/LiF mixture under hydrothermal conditions.
Copper(ii)-catalyzed, site-selective C(sp)2–H amination using 8-aminoimidazo[1,2-a]pyridine (8-AIP) as a directing group
Authors: Hajra Arun Kumar , Ghosh Prasanjit , Roy Chandrayee , Kundu Mrinalkanti , Ghosh Shibaji , Das Sajal
Published: July 2024

A ubiquitous copper(ii)-catalyzed regioselective ortho C(sp2)–H amination of arenes/heteroarenes has been revealed with the assistance of 8-AIP (8-aminoimidazo[1,2-a]pyridine) as an efficacious 6,5-fused bicyclic removable chelating auxiliary.
Theory-driven design of cadmium mineralizing layered double hydroxides for environmental remediation
Authors: Li Zixian , Xu Nuo , Ren Jing , Hao Haigang , Gao Rui , Kong Xianggui , Yan Hong , Hua Xiao , Peng Yung-Kang , Ma Shulan , O'Hare Dermot , Zhao Yufei
Published: July 2024

The environmental concern posed by toxic heavy metal pollution in soil and water has grown.
Atomically precise metal nanoclusters combine with MXene towards solar CO2 conversion
Authors: Cai Yu-Shan , Chen Jia-Qi , Su Peng , Yan Xian , Chen Qing , Wu Yue , Xiao Fang-Xing
Published: July 2024

Transition metal chalcogenides (TMCs) are integrated with MXene and metal nanoclusters (NCs) to construct the TMCs/MXene/metal NCs heterostructure, forming the cascade charge transfer pathway and boosting photocatalytic CO2 reduction performances.
Specific emitter identification under extremely small sample conditions via chaotic integration
Authors: Zhang Haotian , Jiang Yuan , Zhao Lei , Peng Bo
Published: July 2024

As a potential solution to improve wireless security, specific emitter identification is a lightweight access authentication technology. However, the existed deep learning‐based specific emitter identification methods are highly dependent on the training sample size, leading to serious overfitting problem when the training samples are inadequate, which obstructs their practical applications. To address this issue, an innovative data augmentation method to effectively expand the sample size is proposed. In this design, after data preprocessing, a random integration based data augmentation is applied to integrate several initial samples and generate new samples. Furthermore, compared with the existed methods, chaotic sequences are utilized to randomly set the integration weight of each initial sample, and thus enhancing the diversity of augmented samples. The superiority of the proposed chaotic integration‐based data augmentation method in accuracy, generalization ability and robustness is validated by the hardware implementation on digital mobile radio portable radios.
La desloréline
Authors: Tissier Renaud , Kohlhauer Matthias
Published: July 2024

L’acétate de desloréline est un nonapeptide de synthèse commercialisé sous forme d’implant à administration sous-cutanée chez le chien (implants de 4,7 mg) ou le chien et le furet (implants de 9,4 mg). La desloréline agit comme agoniste des récepteurs de l’hormone de libération des gonadotrophines (GnRH), aboutissant à une suppression de la fonction de l’axe gonado-hypophysaire et à une infertilité temporaire.

Au début du traitement, une augmentation transitoire de la sécrétion de l’hormone folliculo-stimulante (FSH) et de l’hormone lutéinisante (LH) peut être observée.

Chez le mâle, les concentrations plasmatiques en testostérone sont ainsi réduites après 4 à 6 semaines après l’implantation.

D’après le Résumé des Caractéristiques du Produit, l’acétate de desloréline est utilisé pour induire une infertilité temporaire chez les chiens ou les furets mâles arrivés à maturité sexuelle, non castrés et en bonne santé.

La durée d’action est respectivement de 6 à 12 mois pour les implants de 4,7 et de 9,4 mg, quelle que soit la taille de l’animal traité. Cette substance est aussi proposée hors RCP pour d’autres utilisations chez le chien, le furet ou le chat, telles que l’induction d’un retard de puberté chez le mâle jeune, l’induction d’un œstrus par hyperstimulation hormonale initiale et retrait secondaire de l’implant après ovulation chez la femelle, ou l’induction d’une infertilité temporaire chez la femelle, si l’implant n’est pas retiré et que l’objectif n’était pas l’induction d’une ovulation.
The influence of zirconium dioxide nanoadditives on the properties of mullite-corundum
Authors: Nerubatskyi V. P. , Hevorkian E. S. , Vovk R. V. , Krzysiak Z. , Komarova H. L.
Published: July 2024

The paper analyzes the effect of nanoadditives of zirconium dioxide, partially stabilized by Y2O3, on the Al2O3–SiO2 matrix during hot pressing by the electroconsolidation method. The microstructure obtained at different compositions and sintering modes is studied. It was established that the introduction of nanopowder ZrO2–3 mol % Y2O3 increases the crack resistance of sintered samples not only due to the transformation of the tetragonal phase to the monoclinic phase, but also due to the formation of a solid solution with aluminum oxide at the interphase boundaries. Starting from a temperature of 1400 °C, complete densification occurs with the formation of nonporous composites while preserving the nanostructure. At this temperature, the formation of mullite with cristobalite phases also begins. The high value of thermocycles makes it possible to use this composite material as a cryogenic one. The fabrication of mullite-corundum composites with additions of ZrO2–3 mol % Y2O3 nanopowders via the method of electrosolidification has enabled the attainment of high fracture toughness, K1C = 14.5 MPa⋅m1/2, and hardness HV10 = 14 GPa. These results evidence excellent mechanical properties, thereby expanding the potential applications of this material.
Quantum continuity equations and quantum evolution systems for white noise operators
Authors: Ji Un Cig
Published: July 2024

Main purpose of this paper is to formulate canonical quantum continuity equations for white noise operators and to find their explicit unique solutions. By applying the continuity equations for white noise functionals and canonical topological isomorphisms between the spaces of white noise operators and the spaces of two-variable white noise functionals, we formulate canonical quantum continuity equations for white noise operators, and then we induce time dependent quantum evolution systems which are equivalent to the quantum continuity equations. Then we find explicit forms, in terms of the quantum analogues of generalized Fourier-Mehler transforms, of the unique solutions of the quantum continuity equations by solving the quantum evolution systems for white noise operators.
Phase holonomy underlies puzzling temporal patterns in Kuramoto models with two sub-populations
Authors: Crnkić Aladin , Jaćimović Vladimir
Published: July 2024

We present a geometric investigation of curious dynamical behaviors previously reported in Kuramoto models with two sub-populations. Our study demonstrates that chimeras and traveling waves in such models are associated with the birth of geometric phase. Although manifestations of geometric phase are frequent in various fields of physics, this is the first time (to our best knowledge) that such a phenomenon is exposed in ensembles of Kuramoto oscillators or, more broadly, in complex systems.
Upper-hybrid oscillations of high current relativistic electron beam under conditions of magnetic self-insulation
Authors: Ilyenko K. , Yatsenko T. , Vekslerchik V. , Opanasenko A. , Portillo S.
Published: July 2024

Upper-hybrid oscillations have appeared in a number of theoretical and experimental investigations of quasi-static neutral plasmas immersed in an external strong magnetic field. We theoretically demonstrate the existence of upper-hybrid oscillations (UHOs) on high current relativistic electron beam (non-neutral plasma) of Magnetically (self-)Insulated transmission Line Oscillator (MILO), which is a promising source of gigahertz-frequency, high power microwave radiation under development in a number of research laboratories. We study the non-linear autonomous system of equations governing MILO high current beam dynamics, build a first integral, which is the total relativistic energy of the non-linear perturbations of charged-particle beam in motion, and derive an explicit solution for this system in terms of elliptic integrals and Jacobi elliptic functions. The period of non-linear UHOs in a non-equilibrium relativistic plasma is derived in a closed analytical form.
A comprehensive study of the impact pressure induced by a single cavitation bubble collapsing near a solid wall
Authors: Zhao Di , Zhang Lingxin , Deng Fuqiang , Li Yang , Shao Xueming
Published: July 2024

We conduct a comprehensive investigation into the wall impacts induced by a single cavitation bubble collapsing near a solid wall, combining numerical simulations with theoretical analysis. We classify the modes of wall impact into three categories based on the standoff distance, γ: pressure wave impact, jet stagnation impact, and water hammer pressure impact. Our findings reveal that the pressure wave impact remains unaffected by the initial radius R0 of the bubble, exhibits a proportional relationship with the square root of the driving pressure Δp, and inversely correlates with γ. We then derive a theoretical expression for the pressure wave impact by drawing insights from energy conversion principles. The jet stagnation impact, on the other hand, is directly proportional to Δp as well as the square of a polynomial involving γ. By quantifying the velocity of the jet impact based on its formation mechanism, we obtain theoretical expressions for both the jet stagnation and water hammer pressure impacts. In accordance with the specific ranges of occurrence and magnitude distribution for each type of impact, we propose the ultimate impact prediction model. When γ>1.97, the predominant source of maximum impact pressure on the wall is attributed to the pressure wave impact, reaching magnitudes of 106 Pa. For γ values ranging from 1.73 to 1.97, the principal contributor to the maximum impact pressure on the wall shifts to the jet stagnation impact, reaching levels of 107 Pa. Conversely, when γ≤1.73, the predominant cause of maximum impact pressure on the wall is the water hammer effect, with magnitudes reaching 108 Pa. This study provides a novel perspective on analyzing the mechanics of wall impacts during the collapse of a cavitation bubble near a solid surface, and the developed models offer valuable insights for predicting and mitigating cavitation erosion.
On the influence of porous coating on vibration response and noise reduction of cylinders at high Reynolds numbers
Authors: Ansari Mahsa , Naeeni Seyed Taghi Omid
Published: July 2024

In the present study, the flow simulation based on a two-dimensional finite volume method is coupled with Ffowcs Williams–Hawkings acoustic analogy to investigate the flow noise around a vibrating circular cylinder coated with different models of porous layers over a range of Reynolds numbers, 1700≤Re≤10 270. The flow is incompressible, and the properties of the porous layer are constant (Da=10, ε=0.99). The mass and damping ratios are m*=2.4 and ξ=0, respectively. The effects of the porous models on the vorticity and pressure contours, hydrodynamic coefficients, vibration response, sound pressure level (SPL), and pressure coefficients (Cp) of an elastically mounted cylinder are examined at 2≤Ur≤12. According to the results, the vibration amplitude decreases by more than 60% in model 3 at the initial branch (2≤Ur≤6), while model 2 shows a maximum reduction of 90% at the lower branch (6≤Ur≤12). Compared to the bare cylinder, CD max decreases by more than 50% in model 3. The best CL max reduction is also contributed by model 3 at Ur<6 and model 2 at Ur>6. Moreover, model 2 shows the highest reduction in the overall sound pressure level for all Reynolds numbers and shows up to 6 dB noise reduction at Re=6847. Models 4, 5, and 6 show the highest peak values of SPL, while models 1 and 2 exhibit the best noise reduction effects with minimum peak values in all Reynolds numbers. Therefore, model 2 is the most efficient structural design for noise reduction and suppression of vortex-induced vibration.