bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transcriptome and metabolome analyses of Rosa chinensis identify heat stress response genes and metabolite pathways
Authors: Wang Hua , Xu Wanting , Zhang Xiaojuan , Wang Lian , Jia Suqi , Zhao Shuwei , Li Wan , Lu Rongqianyi , Ren Aihua , Zhang Shuiming
Published: May 2024

Background
Global warming has made high–temperature stress one of the most important factors causing crop yield reduction and death. In the rose flower industry, high-temperature stress leads to bud dormancy or even death, reducing ornamental value and incurring in economic loss. Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying the response and resistance of roses to high-temperature stress can serve as an important reference for the cultivation of high-temperature-stress-resistant roses.
Results
To evaluate the impact of high temperature on rose plants, we initially measured physiological indices in rose leaves after heat stress. We observed a significant decrease in protein and chlorophyll content, while proline and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, as well as peroxidase (POD) activity, increased. Subsequently, transcriptomics and metabolomics analyses were conducted to detect changes in gene expression and metabolite content after high-temperature stress. Compared to the untreated control (T0), the number of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and differentially abundant metabolites (DAMs) in rose plants subjected to heat peaked at time points T6-T9. This trend closely aligned with the observed physiological changes. Enrichment analysis showed that most DEGs and DAMs primarily involved in the mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) signaling pathway, plant hormone signal transduction, alpha-linolenic acid metabolism, phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, flavonoid biosynthesis, etc.
After heat stress, the DEGs and DAMs combined analysis revealed a predominant downregulation of genes and metabolites related to the flavonoid biosynthesis pathway. Similarly, genes involved in the jasmonic acid pathway within the MAPK signaling pathway exhibited decreased expression, but genes associated with the ethylene pathway were mostly upregulated, suggesting a role in roses’ heat stress responses. Furthermore, heterologous overexpression of the heat stress-responsive gene RcHP70 in Arabidopsis thaliana increased resistance against heat stress.
Conclusion
The present study provides new insights on the genes and metabolites induced in roses in response to high temperature; the present results provide a reference for analyzing the molecular mechanism underlying resistance to heat stress in roses. The obtained candidate genes and metabolites could be valuable resources for breeding of heat stress resistant roses.
The study of pH effects on contaminated fungal growth dynamics of date palm tissue culture
Authors: Alasadi Ramiz , Ahmed Alaa Naser , Tuaimah Mohammed Hadi , Alnaqeb Haitham
Published: May 2024

Date palm, a dynamic tree in arid and semi-arid areas, subjects tissue culture for reproduction, facing challenges like fungal contamination. The impact of various pH levels on contaminated fungal growth and explants in vitro was investigated in this research. Through morphological and molecular analyses, three fungi, Alternaria alternata, Chaetomium globosum, and Nigrospora osmanthi, were identified within the tissue culture, with A. alternata being the most prevalent. Significant differences in radial growth and dry weight of these fungi were observed across different pH levels, whereas shoot growth in date palm tissue culture remained unaffected. This study includes understanding the interactions between pH levels and fungi, highlights the importance of understanding the conditions of date palm tissue culture, by illuminating the behavior of fungi in plant tissue cultures, this study contributes to the extensive understanding of cultivation practices in agricultural settings.
Health workforce in governmental hospitals Hajjah Governorate -Yemen 2022
Authors: Badr Abdulnaser , Abol-Ghaith Fawz Mohammed
Published: May 2024

Backgound
White Army, "They are doctors and nurses and all health care workers in the world." They are crucial for human lives and well-being over the world. Health worker are diverse and has standards regarding loud, demographical characteristics and distribution. Therefore, this paper aimed to identify the size and distribution of the health workforce in governmental hospitals in Hajjah governorate of Yemen.
Method
The descriptive approach was used for the health workforce data set in governmental hospitals in Hajjah Governorate, Yemen. The data was obtained from the Human Resources Department of the Public Health and Population Office. The data was used to determine the workforce size, distribution and most prominent demographic characteristics (hospital, district, qualification, specialization and gender).
Results
The study showed that the total health workforce in governmental hospitals in Hajjah governorate are 431 employees, including 29 doctors and specialists, 15 dentists, 81 nurses, 61 midwives, and 245 medical and health service providers. In percentage (0.07, 0.03, 0.19, 0.14, 0.57), respectively.
The study showed that the majority of health workforce are male, with 294 (68%) male health workers, and with 137 (32%) female health workers.
Most of them have a health diploma above secondary or intermediate, which reached 365 with an average of 85% at the expense of bachelors and specialists, and they are concentrated in central hospitals with 73%, especially in urban areas 63%.
It also reveals the gap in specialists, doctors, midwives and nurses (90%, 38%, 39, 58), respectively. Not to mention the others. This confirms the existence of shortage of health manpower in governmental hospitals in Hajjah Governorate in most specialties, especially women's cadres.
Conclusion
The results showed that the level of the gap in the health workforce in governmental hospitals in Hajjah Governorate was high, and the largest percentage was among females. Therefore, Ministry of Health is recommended to develop a plan to qualify and attract the health workforce, including women, to reduce this gap, especially in rural hospitals.
ParaVerse: Co-design of a Parachute Rehearsal and Training Virtual-reality Enhanced Simulator for the Australian Defence Force: Combining a Generative Co-design Framework and an Agile Approach to Development
Authors: Mills Brennen , Masek Martin , Boston Julie , DeSouza Wyatt , Snell Jake , Bender Stuart , Thompson Matthew , Sung Billy , Hansen Sara
Published: May 2024

While co-design methods are crucial for developing digital educational interventions that are user-centred, contextually relevant, inclusive, and effective in meeting the diverse needs of learners and educators, little attention has been paid to the potential value of co-design processes for digital application development in the Defence context. This research gauged the efficacy of combining a generative co-design framework making use of agile and iterative co-design principles in an applied research and development project. The project produced an immersive virtual reality based digital solution in collaboration with the Australian Defence Force Special Operations Command (SOCOMD) Army. Specifically, the ParaVerse project sought to develop a solution considering the advanced tactics, techniques and procedures relevant to special operations soldiers for advanced parachute training. A Defence advisory group consisting of a series of subject matter experts was formulated to consult with the research and development team over the course of the co-design process. End-user testing with 35 SOCOMD personnel demonstrated the value of the ParaVerse application for SOCOMD personnel, speaking to the success of the leveraged generative co-design model. End-users rated ParaVerse as having greater capacity to influence education and training practices for SOCOMD and Defence generally in comparison to a pre-existing virtual parachute simulator. ParaVerse was also rated higher for satisfaction and useability and was associated with fewer instances of motion sickness. The Generative Co-Design Framework leveraged for this research provides one roadmap on how to integrate end-users in innovation design, particularly for projects working across the nexus of Defence and academia.
Effects of soil drought on competitiveness of the invasive weed Aegilops tauschii
Authors: Wang Ning
Published: May 2024

Aegilops tauschii, an invasive weed, has a detrimental impact on the winter wheat cultivation areas of China. Understanding how drought influences competitive ability of A. tauschii can help identify traits related to its invasiveness and guide management. Slight, moderate, and severe soil drought stress conditions were established using potted weighing and water control methods. Concurrently, the de Wit replacement experiment was conducted to assess changes in morphological structure, biomass allocation, and physiological characteristics under varying intensities of soil drought stress. Based on observations of alterations in plant height, total leaf area, and total biomass, two-factor variance analysis revealed that soil drought inhibited the growth and development of both A. tauschii and Triticum aestivum L. (‘Xinmai 32’). Furthermore, one-factor variance analysis revealed that A. tauschii and wheat responded to soil drought stress by increasing superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and proline content. However, as drought severity escalated, chlorophyll content in A. tauschii and wheat declined significantly, while relative electrical conductivity (REC) and thiobarbituric acid (TBA) content increased markedly. The results of the fuzzy membership function indicated that A. tauschii exhibited greater drought tolerance compared to the tested wheat variety. Lastly, considering adjustments in the corrected index of relative competition intensity (CRCI), it was observed that soil drought amplified the competitive inhibition of A. tauschii on wheat. In short, A. tauschii was more tolerant of the soil drought stress than wheat through the favorable adjustment of morphology, biomass allocation pattern and physiological features, and soil drought intensified its competitive inhibition on wheat.
Internet Use and Cognitive Ability Among Older Adults in China: Results From a National Household Survey
Authors: Zhang Huai-dong , Zhou Min
Published: May 2024

Background: Age-related cognitive decline poses a significant threat to both individual well-being and public health and can progress to conditions such as Dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. Internet use may contribute to protecting against cognitive decline through leisure engagement.
Methods: This study utilizes data from the Chinese Family Panel Studies (CFPS) conducted in 2016 and 2018. Employing the entropy weight method, a comprehensive evaluation index for cognitive ability is constructed. Additionally, we employ both a multiple linear regression model and a single-step multiple mediation model to explore the relationship and mechanism linking internet use to cognitive ability among the elderly, with leisure engagement serving as a mediating factor.
Results: The empirical findings indicate a positive association between internet use and the cognitive ability of older adults. Endogeneity tests and robustness analyses confirm the consistency of this conclusion. Furthermore, mediation analysis reveals that physical activity, recreational engagement, and learning activities serve as mediators in the relationship between internet use and cognitive performance. However, offline social interactions do not exhibit a significant indirect effect.
Conclusion: This study suggests that internet usage may be linked to a reduced risk of cognitive impairment among older adults. To enhance cognitive abilities, governmental efforts should focus on fostering internet-related skills and promoting increased engagement in leisure activities among this demographic.
Exploring the Influence of Human Activities and COVID-19 Lockdown on Urban Air Quality in Rajasthan, India
Authors: Kumar Porush
Published: May 2024

This research provides a comprehensive analysis of the intricate relationships between human activities, air quality dynamics, and the impact of the COVID-19 lockdown in seven major cities in Rajasthan, India—Ajmer, Alwar, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Kota, Pali, and Udaipur. This study meticulously examined the fluctuations in the concentrations of key pollutants (PM2.5, PM10, NO2, and SO2) from 2018 to 2022, covering the prelockdown, lockdown, and postlockdown phases. Significant reductions in air pollutant concentrations were observed during the lockdown period, attributed to decreased anthropogenic activities, notably vehicular emissions and industrial operations. However, postlockdown, a rebound effect was observed, indicating challenges in sustaining air quality improvements amid economic resurgence. Notable findings include substantial declines in PM2.5, PM10, NO2, and SO2 levels during the lockdown, followed by increases to varying degrees postlockdown. The cities of Ajmer, Alwar, and Jaipur demonstrated divergent trends in pollutant concentrations, emphasizing the complex interplay between environmental factors and human behavior. This research contributes to the ongoing discourse on air quality management by providing insights into the impacts of temporary interventions, such as lockdowns, on urban air quality dynamics. The findings underscore the need for holistic approaches integrating environmental policies, industrial regulations, and public health initiatives to mitigate the adverse effects of air pollution and safeguard public health and environmental well-being in urban regions.
Flat biofilm of Staphylococcus epidermidis transforms into Spider-web-like thick biofilm in response to collagen, revealed by liquid-phase atmospheric scanning electron microscopy
Authors: Takahashi Chisato , Sato Mari , Sato Chikara
Published: May 2024

Collagen layer moisturized by Staphylococcus epidermidis on the skin, protects our body from external pathogens. Moreover, S. epidermidis is well known to contribute to our innate immune system. However, the relationship between vertebrate collagen and the symbiotic bacterium, has not been studied to date. Here, we observed development of S. epidermidis colonies on collagen substrate using liquid-phase atmospheric scanning electron microscopy (ASEM). Biofilms were formed on thin-film-windowed ASEM specimen holders with or without collagen coating, fixed by aldehyde, and observed in aqueous buffer using ASEM. Amazingly, an intensive spider-web-like biofilm was constructed on collagen-coated film, whereas flat biofilm on non-coated film. During the process, bacterial cells first adhered to the collagen substrate, multiplied rapidly, secreted micro vesicles, formed delicate web-like intercellular fibril connections, and surrounded by extracellular polymeric substance matrix. Their firm attachment to collagen substrate suggests involvement of the hypothesized collagen-binding proteins. The web-like biofilm of S. epidermidis bacteria in response to collagen, could reflect their life from on vertebrate skin, which could be acquired during the symbiosis. The structure seems to be advantageous to moisturize our skin, and could be important to understanding their role for our innate immune system and further pathogenic processes of the related infectious diseases.
Analysis of Host Factor Networks during Hepatitis B Virus Infection in Primary Human Hepatocytes
Authors: Hwangbo Suhyun , Kim Gahee , Choi Yongwook , Park Yong Kwang , Bae Songmee , Ryu Jae Yong , Hur Wonhee
Published: May 2024

Background: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) affects around 250 million people worldwide, causing approximately 887,000 deaths annually, primarily owing to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The current approved treatments for chronic HBV infection, such as interferon and nucleos(t)ide analogs, have certain limitations as they cannot completely eradicate covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA). Considering that HBV replication relies on host transcription factors, focusing on host factors in the HBV genome may provide insights into new therapeutic targets against HBV. Therefore, understanding the mechanisms underlying viral persistence and hepatocyte pathogenesis, along with the associated host factors, is crucial. In this study, we investigated novel therapeutic targets for HBV infection by identifying gene and pathway networks involved in HBV replication in primary human hepatocytes (PHHs). Importantly, our study utilized cultured primary hepatocytes, allowing transcriptomic profiling in a biologically relevant context and enabling the investigation of early HBV-mediated effects.
Methods: PHHs were infected with HBV virion particles derived from HepAD38 cells at 80 HBV genome equivalents per cell (Geq/cell). For transcriptomic sequencing, PHHs were harvested 1, 2-, 3-, 5-, and 7-days post-infection (dpi). After preparing the libraries, clustering and sequencing were conducted to generate RNA-sequencing data. This data was processed using Bioinformatics tools and software to analyze DEGs and obtain statistically significant results. Furthermore, qPCR was performed to validate the RNA-sequencing results, ensuring consistent findings.
Results: We observed significant alterations in the expression patterns of 149 genes from days 1-7 after HBV infection. The top 100 DEGs associated with mRNA metabolism, alternative splicing regulation, and spliceosomes were downregulated during HBV infection. Conversely, among the upregulated genes, significant changes were primarily related to endopeptidase inhibitor and UDP glucuronosyltransferase activity genes. We identified RNA-binding proteins involved in mRNA metabolism and alternative splicing regulation during HBV infection. We found RBM14 and RPL28 to be potential biomarkers for HBV-associated HCC.
Conclusions: Transcriptome analysis of gene expression changes during HBV infection in PHHs provided valuable insights into chronic HBV infection. Additionally, understanding the functional involvement of host factor networks in the molecular mechanisms of HBV replication and transcription may facilitate the development of novel strategies for HBV treatment.
Fibrinogen signalling in human iPSC-derived microglia
Authors: Cosker Katharina , Boorman Emily , Vasilopoulou Foteini , Mallach Anna , Piers Thomas M , Pocock Jennifer M
Published: May 2024

In Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and multiple sclerosis (MS), microglia are exposed to the blood protein fibrinogen (FG), and we showed previously the response of primary-cultured rat microglia to FG. Here, we show human iPSC-derived microglia (iPS-Mg) respond to FG, inducing secretion of a range of cytokines and chemokines and activation of stress pathways. An increased pro-caspase 4/5 (and active caspase-4/5) expression was independent of ER stress. Furthermore, unlike LPS/ATP which led to canonical NLRP3 inflammasome pathway activation including caspase 1 activity and IL-1β secretion, FG, with or without ATP did not activate the classical inflammasome pathway, indicating FG induced cytokine secretion in human iPS-Mg through non-canonical NFκB pathways. We also investigated how the late-onset AD (LOAD) TREM2 risk factor R47H may influence these responses. Soluble TREM2 was not shed with FG, in contrast to LPS stimulation, but the presence of FG reduced Aβ1−42 phagocytosis by iPS-Mg and enhanced oxidative phosphorylation but not glycolysis. Stress pathway proteome analyses indicated FG induced expression of many proteins in TREM2 common variant (Cv) iPS-Mg some of which more highly expressed in the R47H variant. These findings point to discrete activation pathways in iPS-Mg in response to FG and suggest targets for intervention where blood-brain barrier dysfunction may allow parenchymal FG accumulation.
Gene Amplification of Mediator Subunit 30 Redirects the MYC Transcriptional Program and Oncogenesis
Authors: Jin Chunyu , Zhao Linjie , Zhao Guofeng , Liu Yujia , Ma Wubin , Ma Shenghong , Yao Likun , Liu Yuan , Wu Qiulian , Yuan Huairui , Yang Kailin , Ohgi Kenneth , Rich Jeremy N. , Rosenfeld Michael G.
Published: May 2024

Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying tumorigenesis is crucial for developing effective cancer therapies. Here, we investigate the co-amplification of MED30 and MYC across diverse cancer types and its impact on oncogenic transcriptional programs. Transcriptional profiling of MYC and MED30 single or both overexpression/amplification revealed the over amount of MED30 lead MYC to a new transcriptional program that associate with poor prognosis. Mechanistically, MED30 overexpression/amplification recruits other Mediator components and binding of MYC to a small subset of novel genomic regulatory sites, changing the epigenetic marks and inducing the formation of new enhancers, which drive the expression of target genes crucial for cancer progression. In vivo studies in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) further validate the oncogenic potential of MED30, as its overexpression promotes tumor growth and can be attenuated by knockdown of MYC. Using another cancer type as an example, MED30 knockdown reduces tumor growth particularly in MYC high-expressed glioblastoma (GBM) cell lines. Overall, our study elucidates the critical role of MED30 overexpression in orchestrating oncogenic transcriptional programs and highlights its potential as a therapeutic target for MYC-amplified cancer.
Enhancing Radiological Emergency Response through Agent-Based Model Case 2: Time Required for Staff Assemble
Authors: Kim Geon , Park Jinkyun , Heo Gyunyoung
Published: May 2024

As society becomes more complex, the importance of quick and effective emergency response systems gets more emphasized. This paper introduces a way to reduce the time it takes for emergency staff assembly to be handled during radioactive accidents, which is one of significant factors to manage early-stage situations. By using a type of computer modeling called agent-based modeling (ABM) on the NetLogo software, we examine how emergency responses are carried out, focusing on how emergency staff assembly workers are sent out and how they work together in a simulated setting. By integrating traffic and path-finding models, along with real-world GIS (Geographic Information System) data, our methodology allows for more realistic evaluation of response times under various scenarios, including harsh weather conditions (e.g., Heavy snow) and infrastructural disruptions (e.g., Earthquake). The findings reveal significant variability in emergency staff assembly times, underscored by the impact of environmental factors. This research not only contributes to the understanding of emergency response mechanisms but also provides a practical framework for improving the efficacy of disaster management systems, thereby enhancing public safety and resilience against future radiological events.
Enhancing Game Customer Churn Prediction with a Stacked Ensemble Learning Model
Authors: Guo Rui , Xiong Wen , Zhang Yungang , Hu Yanfang
Published: May 2024

With the rapid growth of mobile internet and smart devices, China's mobile game market has become highly competitive. Game companies face increasing costs in promoting games and acquiring new customers. In response, this paper proposes a stack-based model for game customer churn prediction. This model utilizes a comprehensive set of user features, including static, dynamic, and social network data extracted from game logs. To correct the imbalance between positive and negative examples in our dataset, we applied the Neighborhood Cleaning Rule (NCL). We then constructed the model using a stacking approach that integrates multiple machine learning models into a cohesive binary classification framework. This method systematically predicts customer churn by processing these features. Our approach was rigorously tested on a large-scale real-world dataset, comparing it against nine standard baseline methods. The results reveal that the stack-based model significantly outperforms these methods, achieving a prediction accuracy of 94%.
La 3+ -Schiff base Complex for the Degradation of Rhodamine B: Kinetic Studies and Reactive Species Identification
Authors: Yadav Vaishali , Bhardwaj Vimal K.
Published: May 2024

The research investigates the nature of the La-H2L complex using molar conductivity experiments and UV-visible spectroscopy, subsequently exploring its photocatalytic activity for the degradation of Rhodamine B (RhB) dye. Photocatalytic degradation of RhB was evaluated under UV light, with optimization studies conducted for pH, initial dye concentration, and catalyst dosage. The decay proceeded according to pseudo-first-order kinetics, exhibiting a rate constant of 0.0169 min− 1. Scavenger studies identified hydroxyl radicals as the main reactive species along with holes and superoxide radicals. HRMS spectra revealed intermediate products formed during degradation, elucidating plausible degradation pathways. The La-H2L complex demonstrated high stability and reusability, maintaining significant degradation efficiency over four cycles. XRD and FTIR spectra confirmed the stability of the complex after degradation. These findings highlight the potential of the La-H2L complex as an efficient and stable photocatalyst for environmental remediation applications.
Adipose tissue insulin resistance index was inversely associated with gluteofemoral fat and skeletal muscle mass in Japanese women
Authors: Minato-Inokawa Satomi , Honda Mari , Tsuboi-Kaji Ayaka , Takeuchi Mika , Kitaoka Kaori , Kurata Miki , Wu Bin , Kazumi Tsutomu , Fukuo Keisuke
Published: May 2024

Associations of adipose tissue insulin resistance index (AT-IR, a product of fasting insulin and free fatty acids) with body fat mass and distribution and appendicular skeletal muscle mass (ASM) were compared with results of homeostasis-model assessment-insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) in 284 Japanese female university students and 148 their biological mothers whose BMI averaged <23 kg/m2. Although mothers compared with daughters had higher BMI, body fat percentage and trunk fat to body fat (TF/BF) ratio and lower leg fat to body fat (LF/BF), AT-IR and HOMA-IR did not differ. We had multivariable linear regression analyses which included TF/BF ratio, LF/BF ratio, weight-adjusted ASM (%ASM), height-adjusted ASM index (ASMI), fat mass index (FMI) and body fat percentage. In young women, AT-IR was independently associated with LF/BF ratio (Standardized β [Sβ]: -0.139, p=0.019) and ASMI (Sβ: -0.167, p=0.005). In middle-aged women, LF/BF ratio (Sβ: -0.177, p=0.049) and %ASM (Sβ: -0.205, p=0.02) emerged as independent determinants of AT-IR. HOMA-IR was associated with TF/BF ratio and FMI, a proxy of abdominal and general adiposity, respectively, in both young and middle-aged women. Inverse association of AT-IR with leg fat may support the notion that limited peripheral adipose storage capacity and small skeletal muscle size are important etiological components in insulin-resistant cardiometabolic disease in Japanese women.
Advanced Numerical Algorithm for Non-smoothness Differential Equations: Integrating Fractional Interpolation with Predictive- Corrective Techniques
Authors: Ye L. T. , Chen Y. M. , Liu J. K. , Liu Q. X.
Published: May 2024

In this study, we investigate numerical methods for non-smooth differential equations (NSDEs), which are pivotal in simulating abrupt phenomena in natural and engineering systems. We introduce the fractional interpolation method (FIM), a novel technique that utilizes fractional power functions to approximate solutions at points where derivatives are infinite. This method’s principal innovation is its adept handling of NSDEs' inherent discontinuities, offering a stable and convergent solution framework. Our findings confirm that FIM is both theoretically sound and practically reliable. Through rigorous numerical experiments, we have demonstrated its superior performance compared to conventional high-order numerical methods and MATLAB’s built-in functions. To further affirm FIM’s practicality, we applied it to two distinct non-smooth system types: systems with dry friction and binary wing systems with clearances. These applications substantiate the effectiveness of FIM and highlight its potential to tackle real-world challenges. Furthermore, this research equips scientists and engineers with a robust new tool for addressing NSDEs, setting the stage for further exploration and practical uses, especially in scenarios requiring accurate simulation of abrupt system behaviors. We anticipate the broader application of FIM in analyzing and designing non-smooth systems and are enthusiastic about its role in enhancing our understanding and prediction of complex dynamics across various natural and technical systems.
Spectral Analysis of Cellular Neural Network: Unveiling Network Parameters and Graph Characteristics
Authors: Saravanan Nithya , Ganesan Manju
Published: May 2024

Cellular Neural Network (CNN) finds application in a wide array of parallel processing tasks, such as image processing, non-linear operations, generating geometric maps, and high-speed computations. Functioning as an analogue paradigm, CNN comprises an array of cells interconnected at a local level. These cells can be arranged in an array of $m \times n$ identical cells in a rectangular grid. Graphical representation is achieved by representing cells as vertices and their connections as edges, denoted as $\Gamma_{m,n}$. This paper aims to compute spectrum based results for the CNN. To accomplish this, we determine the Laplacian and the signless Laplacian eigenvalues of $\Gamma_{m,n}$. Utilising these results, we derive a comprehensive set of network-related parameters, including the Kirchhoff index, average path length, mean first passage time, the number of spanning trees, the Estrada index, and the resolvent Estrada index. Furthermore, we delve into graph-related parameters encompassing graph energy and spectral radius to gain deeper insights into the characteristics of $\Gamma_{m,n}$. To streamline our analysis, we design an algorithm to calculate the network-related parameters, as mentioned earlier. Moreover, results are enhanced by the inclusion of numerical tables and vibrant 3D plots that visually depict Laplacian and signless Laplacian energies for specific configurations. Finally, we underscore the application of energy for image segmentation by selecting suitable CNN sizes based on energy, which provides precise results that reduce evaluation time and significantly enhance diagnostic accuracy in image processing.
2020 Mathematics Subject Classification. 05C50, 05C76, 05C90, 68R10, 94C15.
Optimization of the extraction process of bioactive compounds from red fruits of Stenocereus stellatus: Response Surface Methodology (RSM)
Authors: Cervantes-Arista Clara , García-Jiménez Abraham , Trujillo-Ramírez Daniel , León-Sánchez Fernando Díaz , Mendoza-Espinoza José Alberto , Román-Guerrero Angélica , Martínez-Velasco Alejandro
Published: May 2024

Stenocereus stellatus is one of the top 10 most important cactus species in Mexico. Its fruits contain bioactive components like betalains and phenolic compounds. In this study, the extraction conditions were optimized through response surface methodology to maximize the concentration of betalains (betacyanins and betaxanthins), total phenolic compounds (TPC), as well as antioxidant capacity (AC). Various factors were assessed to optimize the extraction of betalains, including pH (W), extraction temperature (X), extraction time (Y), and water: ethanol solvent ratio (Z). TPC and AC were also evaluated using the same factors, except for Z. All these factors had an impact on the concentration of betalains. After evaluating these factors, the optimal extraction conditions were found to be pH 4.2, extraction temperature of 10°C, extraction time of 60 minutes, and a water: ethanol solvent ratio of 55%. Under these conditions, 0.51 mg per g total betalains (BT) were obtained, of which 0.25 mg per g corresponded to BC and 0.26 mg per g to BX. In evaluating TPC and AC, only pH and temperature affected these determinations. The optimal conditions for both variables were pH of 4 and extraction temperature of 60°C, under these conditions 2.34 mg of gallic acid equivalents per g and 18.60 µmol of Trolox equivalents per g were obtained. The results suggest that Stenocereus stellatus could be a promising source for these compounds, which have potential applications in the food and pharmaceutical industries due to their excellent stability under these conditions.
Future cardiovascular events prediction from invasive coronary angiography: A graph representation learning perspective
Authors: Sun Xiaowu , Belmpas Theofilos , Senouf Ortal , Abbé Emmanuel , Frossard Pascal , De Bruyne Bernard , Auberson Denise , Müller Olivier , Fournier Stephane , Mahendiran Thabo , Thanou Dorina
Published: May 2024

Improving risk stratification for coronary artery disease, the leading cause of death worldwide, continues to present a daily challenge in clinical practice, highlighting the urgent need for innovative approaches to early prediction of future cardiovascular events. In this work, we propose AngioGraphCAD, a deep learning based framework that employs graph neural networks to leverage geometry features and a masked attention to fuse geometry features from multiple coronary stenoses for future events prediction at both lesion and patient level from invasive coronary angiography. AngioGraphCAD is evaluated across two clinical cohorts at the lesion level and one datatset at the patient level, achieving superior performance compared to clinical measures. This is the first study that highlights the importance of geometry information in advancing future events prediction from invasive coronary angiography. Given the significance of the clinical question and the innovative nature of the proposed methodology, this work could pave the way for the development of an AI framework fueled by patient-specific data in cardiology, potentially revolutionizing personalized decision-making in managing coronary artery diseases for individual patients.
Estimating risk attitude impact on allocative efficiency under different plantain-based cropping systems: A latent factor model with instrumental variables
Authors: ABIOLA Adikath , ADEGBOLA Ygué Patrice , ZANDJANAKOU-TACHIN Martine , ZOSSOU Roch , BIAOU Gauthier
Published: May 2024

Plantain production is subject to risk, emerging from diverse sources. Consequently, risk modifies farmers behavior, affecting their decision making and thereby their future results. These choices are not only related to investments, crop to produce, and technology use but also to resource allocation. The objective of this study is to analyze the impact of farmers’ risk attitude on allocative efficiency in plantain production. Primary data from 584 farmers, operating on 707 plots, selected through a four-level stratified random sampling was used. The study used the Latent factor models with instrumental variables to account for endogeneity and selection bias. We apply the causal inference methods to assess the impact of risk attitude on allocative efficiency. The result highlights a negative impact of risk attitude on the allocative efficiency. Compared to non-averse farmers, risk-averse farmers are less efficient. Also, as the level of risk aversion increases, the negative impact of risk aversion is more pronounced (-49.1% for extreme risk aversion). Furthermore, stronger impact of risk attitude regardless the level of risk aversion is found for the type 3 which stands for the intensive cropping system. The study provides empirical evidence of the extent of the impact of risk attitude on the allocative efficiency and confirms the heterogeneity of impact assumption. It also provides a useful insight into the key role risk attitude plays in productivity and efficiency in agriculture. These findings have critical policy implications and can help policymakers and practitioners make informed decisions and devise interventions to improve farmers allocative efficiency.
An ecological study of the association between childhood stunting, water, sanitation, and protein access, 2001-20
Authors: Wang Yongsheng , Olukunle Jurido , Wallach Thomas , Rosenbaum Janet
Published: May 2024

Background
Adequate height attainment during early childhood foreshadows lifelong health. Stunting may be caused by environmental enteropathy (EE), but EE has persisted after improvements in water and sanitation access. Recent studies suggest tryptophan and other amino improve height attainment.
Methods
This study used ecological data from 94 countries over 21 years (2001-20) (n = 1836) to evaluate the association between stunting and environmental variables: the percentage with access to adequate water and sanitation, country-level supply of animal protein and fish protein access, and per capita real gross domestic product. We used mixed effects linear models with varying intercepts by country after verifying residuals were uncorrelated and had uniform variance.
Results
Water/sanitation access and animal protein supply are associated with lower stunting: each 1 standard deviation change in water/sanitation was associated with 1 lower standard deviation of stunting, and each 1 standard deviation change in animal protein supply was associated with 0.2 lower standard deviations of stunting. Controlling for year, each 1 standard deviation change in water/sanitation was associated with 0.8 lower standard deviation of stunting, and each 1 standard deviation change in animal protein supply was associated with 0.1 lower standard deviations of stunting.
Conclusions
Improvements in water/sanitation infrastructure and animal protein access are both important interventions to reduce childhood stunting. These findings complement the 2023 FAO report conclusions regarding the importance of land animal protein to childhood growth.
Chinese ponds exhibit larger carbon sequestration but smaller carbon emissions than lakes and reservoirs
Authors: Lv Mingquan , Lv Mingquan , Yang Hong , Yang Hong , Thompson Julian R. , Thompson Julian R. , Huang Ping , Huang Ping , Gao Xin , Gao Xin , Chen Jilong , Chen Jilong , Wu Shengjun , Wu Shengjun
Published: May 2024

China's ponds, which have proliferated in number due to agricultural expansion and population growth, serve as both carbon sinks and sources due to large nutrient influxes. Despite their significance, the role of ponds in the carbon cycle has remained largely unknown, owing to their small size, vast number and widespread distribution. This study integrates carbon emissions and burial across 14.6 million Chinese ponds, revealing their substantial carbon sequestration potential. Ponds emit 5.29 Tg CO2-C yr-1 and 0.86 Tg CH4-C yr-1 but sequester 6.49 Tg C yr-1 of which 82% is organic carbon (OC). In contrast, lakes and reservoirs sequester fluxes of 1.77 Tg C yr-1 and 4.64 Tg C yr-1 of OC, respectively. Considering the high OC-burial/C-emissions ratio (0.86), China’s ponds are more effective as C sinks than lakes and reservoirs. Our results offer a more comprehensive estimate of the C budgets of China's ponds and enhance understanding of their contribution to the global C cycle.
Out-diffusion and uphill-diffusion of Mg in Czochralski-grown (100) β-Ga2O3 under high-temperature annealing and its influence on lateral MOSFET devices
Authors: Chou Ta-Shun , Tran Thi Thuy Vi , Peelaers Hartwin , Tetzner Kornelius , Hilt Oliver , Rehm Jana , Anooz Saud Bin , Fiedler Andreas , Galazka Zbigniew , Albrecht Martin , Popp Andreas
Published: May 2024

In this work, we report the out-diffusion and uphill-diffusion of Mg inside the (100) β-Ga2O3 epilayer and substrate. The Mg accumulates towards the (100) surface upon annealing under an oxidizing environment, whereas the concentration profile changes with annealing temperature and time. Furthermore, the out-diffusion of Mg from the substrate into the epilayer is observed at temperatures above 800 ℃, which continues during the film growth. The substitutional-interstitial-diffusion (SID) mechanism is suggested to be the driving mechanism for the former, and the latter is related to the diffusion of mobile Mg interstitials. The accumulation profile of Mg can be used to identify the interface between the epilayer and the substrate, which shows that the commonly observed interfacial Si peak might be a heavily doped layer at the beginning of the epitaxy process. Furthermore, significant differences in device performance are observed for power transistors fabricated on annealed and non-annealed epitaxial β-Ga2O3 wafers. Increased breakdown voltages of annealed samples are attributed to the Mg diffusion into the first few nanometers of the epitaxial layer close to the interface to the semi-insulating substrate, leading to a thorough compensation of residual dopants in that region.
WITHDRAWN: Phosphate-Driven Interfacial Self-Assembly of Silk Fibroin for Continuous Non-Covalent Growth of Nanothin Defect-Free Coatings
Authors: Wigham Caleb , Fink Tanner D. , Sorci Mirco , O'Reilly Padraic , Park Sung , Kim Jeongae , Zha R. Helen
Published: May 2024

Silk fibroin is a fiber-forming protein derived from the thread of Bombyx mori silkworm cocoons. This biocompatible protein, under the kosmotropic influence of potassium phosphate, can undergo supramolecular self-assembly driven by a random coil to β-sheet secondary structure transition. By leveraging concurrent non-specific adsorption and self-assembly of silk fibroin, we demonstrate an interfacial phenomenon that yields adherent, defect-free nano-thin protein coatings that grow continuously in time, without observable saturation in mass deposition. This non-covalent growth of silk fibroin coatings is a departure from traditionally studied protein adsorption phenomena, which generally yield adsorbed layers that saturate in mass with time and often do not completely cover the surface. Here, we explore the fundamental mechanisms of coating growth by examining the effects of coating solution parameters that promote or inhibit silk fibroin self-assembly. Results show a strong dependence of coating kinetics and structure on solution pH, salt species, and salt concentration. Moreover, coating growth was observed to occur in two stages: an early stage driven by protein-surface interactions and a late stage driven by protein-protein interactions. To describe this phenomenon, we developed a kinetic adsorption model with Langmuir-like behavior at early times and a constant steady-state growth rate at later times. Structural analysis by FTIR and photo-induced force microscopy show that small β-sheet-rich structures serve as anchoring sites for absorbing protein nanoaggregates, which is critical for coating formation. Additionally, β-sheets are preferentially located at the interface between protein nanoaggregates in the coating, suggesting their role in forming stable, robust coatings.
The Art of Seeing: A Computer Vision Journey into Object Detection
Authors: Khan Mohammad Salman , Imran Ayesha
Published: May 2024

Object detection is a fundamental task in computer vision with numerous applications ranging from surveillance and autonomous driving to medical imaging and augmented reality. In recent years, deep learning approaches have significantly advanced the state-of-the-art in object detection, enabling remarkable progress in accuracy, robustness, and efficiency. This paper presents a comprehensive review of recent research developments in computer vision and object detection. We discuss key concepts, methodologies, and challenges in object detection, focusing on deep learning-based approaches. Additionally, we explore emerging trends such as instance segmentation, few-shot learning, and privacy-preserving techniques in object detection. Furthermore, we discuss benchmark datasets, evaluation metrics, and open research challenges in the field. By providing an overview of the current landscape of object detection research, this paper aims to guide researchers, practitioners, and enthusiasts towards understanding the latest advancements and future directions in this exciting area of computer vision. We discuss key topics such as image classification, object detection, image segmentation, and scene understanding. The rapid progress in deep learning has revolutionized computer vision, enabling models to learn hierarchical representations directly from data. We review prominent deep learning architectures such as convolutional neural networks (CNNs), recurrent neural networks (RNNs), and generative adversarial networks (GANs), and their applications in various computer vision tasks. Furthermore, we explore recent developments in multi-modal and cross-modal learning, domain adaptation, and interpretability in computer vision models. Additionally, we discuss challenges such as data bias, ethical considerations, and scalability issues faced by the field. By providing a comprehensive overview, this paper aims to inspire further research and innovation in computer vision, advancing its capabilities and broadening its impact on society.
Accessibility, Usage Patterns of Forest Parks, and Their Relation to Residents' Behaviors based on the Theory of Planned Behavior - Evidence from Suqian, China
Authors: Aziz Faziawati Abdul
Published: May 2024

As urbanization accelerates, there is an increasing desire for access to green spaces to promote human health; however, there is a scarcity of evidence documenting the characteristics that green spaces must have to provide genuine benefits. This research investigates the connection between greenery in public places and residents' health, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic, which has boosted the need for such spaces. The focus is on understanding how forest parks are utilized and perceived by people in their daily activities, within the cultural context of China, with a specific emphasis on the constraints faced in China. The study examines the attributes of green spaces and the ecological characteristics of forest parks as accessible urban greenery, as well as their impact on the behavior of visitors. A survey of 338 residents visiting 5 forest parks from Suqian was conducted, utilizing a random sampling method for respondent selection. The results indicate that respondents use urban forest parks for relaxation, stress reduction, and enjoyable activities with family and friends. The research also reveals a strong connection between visitor usage patterns and forest park characteristics, including factors such as distance, safety, playground quality, natural elements, and quietness. Primary constraints that hinder the utilization of urban forest parks in Suqian were identified as the lack of time and long distances. Respondents expressed a higher interest in visiting forest parks more frequently if safety and accessibility were improved, along with the addition of extra amenities. These findings provide valuable insights into accessibility patterns and constraints related to the utilization of urban forest parks by Suqian residents. The research also offers suggestions for addressing public security and safety concerns based on residents' visiting habits. The outcomes of this research will be beneficial for future park development, design, and management.