bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Manipulation of a Complex Object Using Dual-Arm Robot with Mask R-CNN and Grasping Strategy
Authors: Kijdech Dumrongsak , Vongbunyong Supachai
Published: July 2024

Hot forging is one of the common manufacturing processes for producing brass workpieces. However forging produces flash which is a thin metal part around the desired part formed with an excessive material. Using robots with vision system to manipulate this workpiece has encountered several challenging issues, e.g. the uncertain shape of flash, color, reflection of brass surface, different lighting condition, and the uncertainty surrounding the position and orientation of the workpiece. In this research, Mask region-based convolutional neural network together with image processing is used to resolve these issues. The depth camera can provide images for visual detection. Machine learning Mask region-based convolutional neural network model was trained with color images and the position of the object is determined by the depth image. A dual arm 7 degree of freedom collaborative robot with proposed grasping strategy is used to grasp the workpiece that can be in inappropriate position and pose. Eventually, experiments were conducted to assess the visual detection process and the grasp planning of the robot.
Nutritional status and growth performance of Fijian non-descript local chickens and their crosses with broilers under different production systems
Authors: Berukilukilu Lorenzo T. , Bakare Archibold G. , Iji Paul A. , Zindove Titus J.
Published: July 2024

The study compared nutrient intake and growth performance of local chickens to that of local x broiler crossbreds under scavenging and indoor conventional systems. A total of 48 male and 48 female chickens for each of the two chicken types were allocated to four outdoor free-range pens. The chickens were allowed to scavenge whilst being supplemented with sorghum plus kitchen waste and broiler growers from week 5 to week 13 of age. The same design was repeated using the indoor conventional system. Local chickens and their crosses with broilers had higher growth rates under the scavenging system than the indoor production system (P < 0.05). Local chickens and their crosses with broilers had the same growth rates when fed the same diet (P > 0.05). Crop and gizzard contents from local chickens had the same crude protein as their crosses with broilers under both systems (P > 0.05). The crude protein values of crop and gizzard contents ranged from 25.4 to 30.4%. Crop and gizzard contents from scavenging chickens had energy content ranging from 16.2 to 17.1 MJ/Kg which was lower (P < 0.05) than that from chickens under the indoor conventional system (20.3 to 25.8 kJ/Kg). Iron content ranged from 655.7 to 1619.4 mg/Kg in scavenging chickens and 156.1 to 621.4 mg/Kg in enclosed chickens. Chickens of the same type had higher iron content in their crop and gizzard contents under the scavenging system than the conventional system (P < 0.05). Crossbreds between local chickens and broilers matches the scavenging abilities of the local chickens but have lower growth rates under the scavenging system.
Dietary supplementing South African indigenous rams with flaxseed oil and ascorbic acid improves cryopreserved semen quality and in vitro fertility
Authors: Ngcobo Jabulani Nkululeko , Nedambale Tshimangadzo Lucky , Nephawe Khathutshelo Agree , Sithole Sindisiwe Mbali , Chokoe Tlou Caswell , Ramukhithi Fhulufhelo Vincent
Published: July 2024

The purpose of this study was to evaluate how ascorbic acid with dietary flaxseed oil affects the quality and fertility of cryopreserved ram sperm in South African indigenous rams. Treatment diets were supplemented 60 days before semen collection to afford proper spermatogenesis, adaptation to the feed formulated and fed throughout the study. Semen was collected with the use of artificial vagina following dietary supplementation with five treatment diets (neg. cont. – negative control, pos. cont. – positive control, FLO – 5% Flaxseed oil, ASA – 4% Ascorbic acid, and FLO + ASA). Semen was then extended using tris-based extender and cryopreserved using the programmable freezer (CBS Freezer 2100 series, Laboratory consumables & chemical suppliers, America). Ovaries were collected from a neighbouring slaughter house and conveyed to the lab in 0.9% saline at 37 °C. Data (sperm parameters and in vitro fertility) was then exposed to the GLM (General Linear Model) in Minitab 17. Pearson’s correlation coefficient was utilized to investigate the relationship between cryopreserved sperm quality and in vitro fertility. The student Least Significant Difference Test was used to separate the treatment means, and differences were accepted when the p-value was less than 0.05. The FLO + ASA group had higher (p < 0.05) progressive (36.33 ± 1.87), total (88.24 ± 2.24), rapid motility (27.52 ± 1.74), intact plasma membrane (75.67 ± 2.08), total fertilization (65.98 ± 7.39), and total cleavage (66.19 ± 6.50) when compared to other treatment groups. Total fertilization rate had a medium significant (p < 0.001) medium correlation with the progressive motility (r2 = 0.435), total motility (r2 = 0.447) and rapid motility (r2 = 0.409). In conclusion, dietary flaxseed and ascorbic acid (FLO + ASA) improves cryopreserved semen quality, in vitro fertilization rate, and the total cleavage rate. Noteworthy, the progressive, total and rapid motility play a crucial in the in vitro fertilization rate.
Sono-assisted Adsorption of Methyl Violet 2B Using a Magnetic Kaolin/TiO2/γ-Fe2O3 Nano Composite
Authors: Fındık Serap
Published: July 2024

In this study, the efficacy of sono-assisted adsorption for the removal of methyl violet 2B (MV-2B) was investigated. A magnetic adsorbent was synthesized using kaolin and TiO2, designated as KTF. Various analyses including scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM–EDS), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), Zeta potential and vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) were conducted to characterize the structure of KTF. The BET surface area and pore volume of KTF were determined to be 65.279 m2/g and 0.072 cm3/g, respectively. VSM analysis confirmed the superparamagnetic property of KTF. The effect of contact time, initial MV-2B concentration, KTF amount, temperature, ionic strength and initial pH of the solution on the sono-assisted adsorption of MV-2B was investigated. Sono-assisted removal of MV-2B was achieved at a rate of 85.6% under optimal conditions: original pH, KTF amount of 0.2 g/100 mL, initial MV-2B concentration of 20 mg/L, contact time of 15 min, and temperature of 22 °C. Conversely, lower removal efficiencies were observed with conventional adsorption methods employing shaking (37%) and stirring (60.5%). The kinetics of sono-assisted MV-2B removal followed a pseudo-second order model, while the Freundlich isotherm model exhibited a superior fit (R2 = 0.985) in describing the equilibrium behavior compared to Langmuir and Temkin models.
Compost amendment in urban gardens: elemental and isotopic analysis of soils and vegetable tissues
Authors: Trimmel Simone , Wagner Stefan , Feiner Laura , Feiner Maria , Haluza Daniela , Hood-Nowotny Rebecca , Pitha Ulrike , Prohaska Thomas , Puschenreiter Markus , Spörl Philipp , Watzinger Andrea , Ziss Elisabeth , Irrgeher Johanna
Published: July 2024

Urban horticulture poses a sustainable form of food production, fosters community engagement and mitigates the impacts of climate change on cities. Yet, it can also be tied to health challenges related to soil contamination. This work builds on a previous study conducted on eleven urban gardens in the city of Vienna, Austria. Following the findings of elevated Pb levels in some soil and plant samples within that project, the present study investigates the elemental composition of soil and plants from two affected gardens 1 year after compost amendment. Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) analysis of skin, pulp and seeds of tomato fruits revealed minor variations in elemental composition which are unlikely to have an impact on food safety. In turn, a tendency of contaminant accumulation in root tips and leaves of radishes was found. Washing of lettuce led to a significant reduction in the contents of potentially toxic elements such as Be, Al, V, Ni, Ga and Tl, underscoring the significance of washing garden products before consumption. Furthermore, compost amendments led to promising results, with reduced Zn, Cd and Pb levels in radish bulbs. Pb isotope ratios in soil and spinach leaf samples taken in the previous study were assessed by multi-collector (MC-) ICP-MS to trace Pb uptake from soils into food. A direct linkage between the Pb isotopic signatures in soil and those in spinach leaves was observed, underscoring their effectiveness as tracers of Pb sources in the environment.

Graphical Abstract
Social risks assessment of the supply chain of an aluminium semi-finished profile for window
Authors: Di Giorgio Paolo , D’Eusanio Manuela , Serreli Monica , Petti Luigia
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Aluminium is among the most energy-intensive industries in the world and is produced from mining operations in bauxite mines. The effects on the environment of the entire aluminium supply chain, especially mining, also entail social risks. This article aims to understand the potential social risks along the supply chain of aluminium by focusing on a semi-finished frame for windows through the use of the Product Social Impact Life Cycle Assessment (PSILCA) database.

Method

Social Life Cycle Assessment (S-LCA) was implemented by following the Social Life Cycle Assessment of Products And Organizations 2020, to analyse the potential social risks and opportunities associated with the aluminium sector. Specifically, the PSILCA database, designed for S-LCA, was used to evaluate the background processes of the aluminium supply chain of an Italian company specialized in surface treatment of aluminium semi-finished products used in the production of doors and windows.

Results

The primary social risks manifest in the background processes. Comparing these findings with the literature review, it is straightforward to attribute them to the mining phase of bauxite, which constitutes the initial stage in aluminium production and occurs in various regions globally. Specifically, the highest social risk is associated with “Corruption in the public sector”, likely linked to Italy. Additionally, the study reveals a positive impact in terms of “Contribution to economic development” as also revealed by the literature review.

Conclusions

An analysis of the potential social risks within the aluminium supply chain was provided, addressing the research gap between the utilization of S-LCA methodology and its application within the sector. Additionally, the PSILCA database was employed for investigating the background processes in the case study. However, a social performance assessment using primary data would be required to enhance the representation of the evaluated production system.
Social life cycle assessment in current and future Norwegian livestock production
Authors: Møller Hanne , Rydhmer Lotta , Christensen Tove , Poulsen Lasse Krogh , Olsen Hanne Fjerdingby
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study is a social life cycle assessment (S-LCA) of per capita consumption of animal protein in Norway in 2019. The animal protein consisted of milk, beef, pork, poultry and egg. Based on the 2019 results, two scenarios, TrendProd and ChangeProd, were qualitatively assessed. The TrendProd scenario is a continuation of the current trend towards highly efficient livestock production, whilst ChangeProd focuses on using livestock feed based on bioresources that are unsuitable for human consumption.

Methods

The assessment of current livestock production followed the updated version of the social LCA guidelines by UNEP (2020). A survey amongst stakeholders was conducted for the selection of subcategories. The product system was divided into the following steps: imported feed, domestic off-farm feed, livestock production, manufacturing, distribution and use. A total of 25 subcategories across six stakeholder groups (i.e. workers, local community, society, value chain actors, consumers and children) were included in the assessment. A reference scale approach was used with a scale from 1 to 4. The assessment included quantitative and qualitative data from statistics, indices, surveys, etc. The social performance of the scenarios was assessed by the authors’ expert evaluation using the Delphi approach, comparing performance of indicators relative to the current production.

Results and discussion

The life cycle for the current Norwegian livestock production had an acceptable or high social performance for 17 of the selected subcategories. Five subcategories had a low performance (fair salary, equal opportunities, animal welfare, food security, promoting social responsibility) and three had a very low performance (health and safety, cultural heritage, fair competition). The assessment of the scenarios indicated that anticipated improvements in skills and technology were key drivers for maintaining or enhancing social performance in certain subcategories. The use of activity variables for measuring the relative importance of each unit process is recommended as it reflects actual distribution and is consistent with the method of environmental LCA.

Conclusions

Overall, the social life cycle assessment of current livestock production demonstrated high social performance. A stakeholders’ survey resulted in a new subcategory, ‘food security’, which served to include societal concern for self-sufficiency and food security in social LCA. Limitations and uncertainties of the study have also been identified, some relating to data and choice of indicators and others to the application of method, e.g. activity variables, development of reference scale and aggregation of results.
Looking Toward the Future of Integrated Care: History, Developments, and Opportunities
Authors: Manderscheid Ronald W. , Ward Amy
Published: July 2024

For almost five decades, the development and implementation of integrated care—the simultaneous combination of primary care with mental health and substance use care—has been a major challenge for the behavioral health care field. Integrated care is exceptionally important because many people with behavioral health conditions also have chronic physical health conditions. Early research findings in the mid-1980s showed that persons with mental illness are likely to develop chronic physical conditions earlier and more severely than other people. These findings precipitated efforts to understand this problem and to develop further appropriate integrated care solutions. Subsequently, the US Surgeon General made care integration a major focus of his landmark 1999 Report on Mental Health, as did the 2008 Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act and the 2010 Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. However, it was not until 2014, and later, that integrated care actually began to be implemented more broadly. This article reviews these major developmental milestones, examines current activities, and explores likely developments over the next several years. Major current issues include the response to the COVID-19 pandemic, adjusting to its effects on the behavioral health care workforce, and the growing realization that behavioral health care must address the social determinants of life. Likely developments over the next several years will include devising ways to address our workforce crisis, developing effective community interventions, and implementing population health management strategies; implementing the CMS Innovation in Behavioral Health Model; improving reimbursement practices; and exploring the potential of AI for integrated care. Implications for future service organization and training of behavioral health care providers also are discussed. Granted the severity of the current workforce crisis in behavioral health care, urgent efforts are needed to advance the deployment of integrated care in the short-term future.
Informationssuchverhalten und digitale Gesundheitskompetenz von Schüler*innen in Deutschland während der Coronapandemie
Authors: László Emese , Sendatzki Saskia , Rathmann Katharina
Published: July 2024

Hintergrund

Während der Coronapandemie waren Schüler*innen mit einer Flut von Informationen zur Gesundheit und zur Coronapandemie konfrontiert. Der adäquate Umgang mit Gesundheitsinformationen setzt (digitale) Gesundheitskompetenz voraus. Ziel des Beitrags ist daher, das Informationssuchverhalten und das Ausmaß der digitalen Gesundheitskompetenz (dGK) von Schüler*innen in Deutschland während der Coronapandemie unter Berücksichtigung ihres sozialen Hintergrunds zu analysieren.

Material und Methoden

Die Online-Befragung wurde während des dritten Lockdowns, von März bis Juli 2021, in Hessen und anderen Bundesländern durchgeführt. Der Feldzugang erfolgte in weiterführenden Schulen, Verbänden und Sportvereinen. Der Online-Fragebogen wurde von N = 1096 Schüler*innen der Klassenstufe 6 bis 13 aufgerufen und n = 361 Schüler*innen vollständig ausgefüllt. Es wurden das gesundheitsbezogene Informationssuchverhalten (internetbasierte Quellen für Gesundheitsinformationen, [digitale] Quellen für Informationen zur Coronapandemie), die dGK (Digital Health Literacy Instrument [DHLI]) sowie soziodemografische und -ökonomische Hintergrundmerkmale (Geschlecht, Alter, zuhause gesprochene Sprache, Schulform, subjektiver Sozialstatus) erfasst und mittels uni-, bi- und multivariater Analysen mit SPSS ausgewertet.

Ergebnisse

Nach Gesundheitsinformationen zum Coronavirus im Internet suchten regelmäßig 75,6 % der Schüler*innen. Schwierigkeiten beim Umgang mit digitalen Gesundheitsinformationen gaben 52,6 % der Schüler*innen an. 49,8 % der Schüler*innen berichteten von Schwierigkeiten beim Bewerten der Zuverlässigkeit von digitalen Informationen zum Coronavirus. Die bi- und multivariaten Analysen weisen darauf hin, dass sich die dGK nach dem subjektiven Sozialstatus (SSS) dahingehend unterscheidet, dass Schüler*innen mit niedrigem bzw. mittlerem SSS (OR = 2,57, 95 %-KI: 1,30–5,06, p = 0,006) häufiger Schwierigkeiten im Umgang mit digitalen Gesundheitsinformationen zur Coronapandemie aufweisen als Gleichaltrige der Vergleichsgruppen. Die dGK unterscheidet sich nicht signifikant nach soziodemografischen (Geschlecht, Migrationshintergrund) und weiteren sozialen Merkmalen (besuchte Schulform, familiärer Wohlstand).

Schlussfolgerung

Die Förderung der dGK von Schüler*innen auf Schul- und Individualebene stellt ein wichtiges Anliegen der Prävention und Gesundheitsförderung dar. Durch bildungspolitische Maßnahmen (z. B. durch den „Medienkompetenzrahmen“ für die schulischen Medienbildung in den Bundesländern) sollte es den Schulen ermöglicht werden, die (d)GK im Rahmen der Medien- und Gesundheitsbildung in den Unterricht, Curricula und auf allen Ebenen von und bei allen Akteuren in Schulen (bspw. durch die organisationale Gesundheitskompetenz) zu berücksichtigen.
Progress in the Application of Hydrogels in Intervertebral Disc Repair: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Chen Xin , Jing Shaoze , Xue Chenhui , Guan Xiaoming
Published: July 2024

Purpose of Review

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) is a common orthopaedic disease and an important cause of lower back pain, which seriously affects the work and life of patients and causes a large economic burden to society. The traditional treatment of IVDD mainly involves early pain relief and late surgical intervention, but it cannot reverse the pathological course of IVDD. Current studies suggest that IVDD is related to the imbalance between the anabolic and catabolic functions of the extracellular matrix (ECM). Anti-inflammatory drugs, bioactive substances, and stem cells have all been shown to improve ECM, but traditional injection methods face short half-life and leakage problems.

Recent Findings

The good biocompatibility and slow-release function of polymer hydrogels are being noticed and explored to combine with drugs or bioactive substances to treat IVDD.

This paper introduces the pathophysiological mechanism of IVDD, and discusses the advantages, disadvantages and development prospects of hydrogels for the treatment of IVDD, so as to provide guidance for future breakthroughs in the treatment of IVDD.
Oncogenic Gene CNOT7 Promotes Progression and Induces Poor Prognosis of Glioma
Authors: Lu Feng , Jiang Xiulong , Lin Kun , Zheng Pengfeng , Wu Shizhong , Zeng Guangming , Wei De
Published: July 2024

Glioma is the most common malignant brain tumor in the central nervous system with the poor prognosis of patients. The CNOT7 (CCR4-NOT Transcription Complex Subunit 7) is an important functional subunit of CCR4-NOT protein complex that has not been reported in glioma. In this study, we aimed to explore the function of CNOT7 in glioma. The TCGA (The Cancer Genome Atlas) and CGGA (Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas) databases were used for investigating the expression and survival condition of CNOT7 in glioma. The cellular function experiments of qRT-PCR, CCK-8 assays, wound healing assays, and Transwell assays were conducted to verify the function of knockdown CNOT7 in the glioma cell lines DBTRG and U251. Enrichment analysis was used to explore the molecular mechanism of CONT7 in glioma. What is more, the upstream regulation transcription factors of CNOT7 were analyzed based on the ChIP-Atlas and cBioportal (provisional) databases, and verified by the qRT-PCR and luciferase reporter assay. The CNOT7 was highly expressed in glioma and presented the poorer prognosis. The knockdown of CNOT7 inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion of glioma cell line, compared to control group. The enrichment analysis revealed that the CNOT7 participated in the development of glioma via G2M checkpoint, E2F targets, IL6-JAK-STAT3, and TNF-α signaling pathways via NF-κB. Besides, it was found that the HDAC2 (Human histone deacetylase-2) contributes to increased CNOT7 expression in glioma. The high-expressed CNOT7 is an oncogene with poor prognosis and participate the progression of glioma.
Arithmetic properties of l-regular partitions and l-regular bipartitions
Authors: Shruthi  , Kumar B. R. Srivatsa
Published: July 2024

For any positive integer l, let $$b_l(n)$$

b
l

(
n
)

and $$B_l(n)$$

B
l

(
n
)

represent the number of l-regular partitions and l-regular bipartitions respectively. By employing q-identities, we prove new congruences for $$b_{11}(n)$$

b
11

(
n
)

, $$b_{19}(n)$$

b
19

(
n
)

, $$b_{55}(n)$$

b
55

(
n
)

, $$B_{11}(n)$$

B
11

(
n
)

and $$B_{13}(n)$$

B
13

(
n
)

.
Teacher-Rated Mental Health of Siblings of Children with Chronic Disorders
Authors: Prentice Caitlin M. , Orm Stian , Botta Matteo , Vatne Torun M. , Fredriksen Trude , Kirchhofer Solveig , Fjermestad Krister
Published: July 2024

Siblings of children with chronic disorders are at a heightened risk for internalizing and externalizing problems. Studies on sibling mental health typically use parent report, and sometimes sibling self-report, but do not include the perspectives of teachers. We investigated how teachers and parents in Norway rated sibling mental health to gain a more coherent picture of siblings’ well-being and functioning across the home and school contexts. We compared how siblings aged 8–16 years (45% boys, 54% girls) were scored on the strengths and difficulties questionnaire by teachers (n = 125), mothers (n = 115), and fathers (n = 81) with population norms and clinical cutoffs. For boys, the mean teacher scores did not indicate problems for total difficulties or any subscale except hyperactivity–inattention, but mean parent scores were higher for total difficulties and most subscales (d = .44 to .96). For girls, teachers indicated higher than norm scores for total difficulties, emotional problems, hyperactivity–inattention and peer problems (d = .26 to .46), while parents indicated higher total difficulties and problems across most subscales (d = .31 to .54). Prosocial behavior was as a relative strength of siblings across all raters. Siblings may not display the same level of mental health problems in school as at home, and teachers can offer an important perspective on siblings’ mental health and functioning.
Origin–destination matrices from smartphone apps for bus networks
Authors: Barabino Benedetto , Coni Mauro , Di Francesco Massimo , Obino Andrea , Ventura Roberto
Published: July 2024

The knowledge of passenger flows between each origin–destination (OD) pair is a main requirement in public transport for service planning, design, operation, and monitoring, and is represented by OD matrices. Although they can be determined by traditional approaches (e.g., surveys, ride-check counts, and/or smartcard-based methods), the availability of new technologies and the proliferation of portable devices triggers an emerging interest in building OD matrices from the apps of bus operators. This research proposes the first framework for the estimation of OD matrices on transit networks by processing smartphone app call detail records (SACDRs). The framework is experimentally tested on a sample of 30 workdays of an Italian bus operator. The results are represented by easy-to-read control dashboards based on maps, which help quantify and visualise the OD matrices in the metropolitan area of Cagliari (Italy). The experimentation shows that the framework can properly estimate the number of trips for both origin and destination w.r.t. OD matrices built from household surveys: the mean absolute error is on average lower than five movements for 90% of the origins and 85% of the destinations.
New data and insights on the secondary glass workshop of Comacchio (Italy): MgO contents, steatite crucibles and alternatives to recycling
Authors: Gliozzo Elisabetta , Braschi Eleonora , Ferri Margherita
Published: July 2024

This study introduces a collection of 33 glass samples, encompassing production indicators (blocks, fluidity tests, drops, cuts and wastes) and finished products (mainly goblets and probably a lamp) dating to the second half of the 7th century, except for a single more recent specimen (12th-14th). Additionally, a fragment was taken from a crucible bearing a thin layer of glass inside it. This new collection complements the investigation of glass materials from the Comacchio workshop previously analysed by Bertini et al. (2020).

Measurements were performed using scanning electron microscopy, electron microprobe, laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy on all samples and Sr–Nd isotopic analyses on 5 blocks.

The results showed how the entire collection can be classified as natron-based silica-soda-lime glass and that the high MgO contents frequently observed are due to contamination with the steatite crucible. Contextually, the hypothesis of using plant ash-based glass mixed with natron-based glass formulated in the previous literature seems to have run out, along with the use of plant ash-based glass itself, further weakened by the very low representativeness of this latter type of glass on the site.

The technological investigation further elucidated that recycling may not singularly account for the Comacchio glass technology. Discernible correlations may suggest the introduction of different types of metals, indicating a specialised control over the production process. Notably, the preference for green–blue glass emerges as a distinctive hallmark, underscoring the deliberate pursuit of a specific aesthetic taste.

Lastly, the provenance analysis showed that over three-quarters of production was based on semi-finished products from Egypt, while only the remaining quarter came from the Levantine coast.
Evaluative Item-Contrastive Explanations in Rankings
Authors: Castelnovo Alessandro , Crupi Riccardo , Mombelli Nicolò , Nanino Gabriele , Regoli Daniele
Published: July 2024

The remarkable success of Artificial Intelligence in advancing automated decision-making is evident both in academia and industry. Within the plethora of applications, ranking systems hold significant importance in various domains. This paper advocates for the application of a specific form of Explainable AI—namely, contrastive explanations—as particularly well-suited for addressing ranking problems. This approach is especially potent when combined with an Evaluative AI methodology, which conscientiously evaluates both positive and negative aspects influencing a potential ranking. Therefore, the present work introduces Evaluative Item-Contrastive Explanations tailored for ranking systems and illustrates its application and characteristics through an experiment conducted on publicly available data.
Modulation of miR-155-5p signalling via 5-ASA for the prevention of high microsatellite instability: an in vitro study using human epithelial cell lines
Authors: Adamowicz Monika , Abramczyk Joanna , Kilanczyk Ewa , Milkiewicz Piotr , Łaba Alicja , Milkiewicz Malgorzata , Kempinska-Podhorodecka Agnieszka
Published: July 2024

5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA) is a first-line treatment for maintaining colitis remission. It is a highly effective, safe, and well-tolerated drug with anti-inflammatory and chemo-preventive properties. While patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) with concomitant ulcerative colitis are treated with 5-ASA, the molecular mechanisms underlying the drug’s chemo-preventive effects are not entirely understood. We previously reported that bile acids and lipopolysaccharide-induced miR-155 expression was associated with downregulating mismatch repair (MMR) proteins in CACO-2 cell lines. Therefore, in this investigation, a set of in vitro functional studies was performed to show the possible mechanisms behind the epigenetic relationship between miR-155 and 5-ASA’s prevention of high microsatellite instability (MSI-H). In transient transfection with miR-155Mimic, which behaves like endogenous miRNA, we confirmed the relationships between miR-155 and its target MMR in three human intestinal epithelial cell lines: CACO-2, NCM460D and HT-29. We have shown, for the first time, that 5-ASA modulates MLH1, MSH2, MSH6 in miR-155 transfected cells. These findings underline that chemoprotective 5-ASA therapy can effectively attenuate the expression of miR-155 and potentially prevent a development of MSI-H in a subset of colorectal cancers associated with PSC.
The Experience of Sexual Desire Among Male Adolescents in Malaysia Detained for Sexual Intercourse with an Underage Partner: An Exploration Using the Incentive Theory of Sexual Motivations
Authors: Mohammad Taufik , Barroso Ricardo
Published: July 2024

Introduction

In Malaysia, statutory rape laws are used to charge male individuals who engage in sexual intercourse with underage females, including on male adolescents who engage in sex with their female peers who are of similar age, but underage. This view that criminalizes sexual behavior among male adolescents raises the question if their sexual behavior should be considered sexually deviant.

Methods

To explore this question, this qualitative study conducted in-depth interviews with 19 adolescents who were detained for sexual intercourse with their underage partner, guided by the Incentive Theory of Sexual Motivations. Interviews were carried out between April and July 2023.

Results

Thematic analysis demonstrated that various parts of the adolescents’ experience in sexual desire and excitement seemed to be normative, although a few respondents exhibited deviance in terms of age interests, the use of substance in enhancing sexual experience, and the propensity of aggression.

Conclusions

The findings of this study highlighted the nuances of sexual behavior among male adolescents, particularly with similar-aged partners who happen to be underage.

Policy Implications

This study highlights that sexual relationships between adolescents who happen to be underage should not automatically be regarded as deviant. This has important policy implications, particularly concerning the enforcement of statutory rape laws on male adolescents, which effectively criminalizes their sexual behavior.
Real-World Patients’ Diagnosis-to-Treatment Journey with Nontuberculous Mycobacterial Pulmonary Disease: A Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Morimoto Kozo , Gallagher Jack R. , Wagner Dirk , Griffith David E. , van Ingen Jakko
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The incidence and prevalence of nontuberculous mycobacterial pulmonary disease (NTM-PD) are increasing globally. Approximately 80% of NTM-PD cases in Japan and five countries within Europe (Eur5; France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the UK) are caused by Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC). This study describes the clinical decision-making process associated with the management of patients with NTM-PD in Japan and the Eur5.

Methods

We analyzed data from a survey conducted between July 2013 and October 2013 among physicians treating patients with NTM-PD in clinical practice to compare the healthcare settings, clinical presentation, and patient management in Japan and the Eur5.

Results

Overall, 619 physicians (Japan, 173; Eur5, 446) participated in the survey. Most patients in Japan (85%) and the Eur5 (79%) were diagnosed with MAC-PD. Patients were managed generally in hospital-based outpatient clinics (117/173, 68%) in Japan and research/teaching hospitals affiliated with medical schools (140/446, 31%) in the Eur5. The most common reason for delaying treatment was the patient’s symptoms not being considered serious enough for treatment (55/128, 43%) in Japan and awaiting results of antimicrobial susceptibility testing (44/151, 29%) in the Eur5. Culture negativity was less commonly achieved after treatment in patients in Japan versus those in the Eur5 (31% [73/238] vs. 70% [300/426], p < 0.0001). In treatment phases that were either completed or discontinued, the primary goal was symptomatic improvement, followed by achieving culture conversion, in both Japan and the Eur5. Overall, 19% (16/85) of physicians in Japan and 43% (220/511) in the Eur5 were “entirely satisfied” with their patients’ treatment outcomes.

Conclusions

Similarities and differences exist in the healthcare settings, clinical presentation, and management of patients with NTM-PD in Japan and the Eur5. Insufficient consideration of culture status by physicians, delayed treatment initiation, and symptom-based cessation emphasize the need for educational efforts on the guideline-based strategies.
Mechanical responses and fracturing behaviors of coal under complex normal and shear stresses, Part II: Numerical study using DEM
Authors: Song Z. Y. , Amann F. , Dang W. G. , Yang Z.
Published: July 2024

This work presents particle-based numerical simulations on coal pillars in a coal mine based underground water reservoir (CMUWR). We aim to replicate the stress–strain characteristics and present the acoustic emission behavior of the coal under complex dynamic stress paths. The study reveals failure characteristics of coal exposed to monotonic/cyclic shear load under constant/cyclic normal loads. Based on the evolution of stress-time-dependent bond diameter implemented in particle model, different damage paths are established for dry and water-immersed samples under two loading frequencies. Furthermore, the numerical Gutenberg–Richter’s b-value was calculated from the released energy emanating from bond failure, and this work presents the evolution of numerical Gutenberg–Richter’s b-value. The numerical simulation contributes to a micromechanical understanding of the failure mechanisms of coal under water-immersion and cyclic stress, providing valuable insights for strength prediction of CMUWR.
Assessment of factors and mechanism contributing to groundwater depressurisation due to longwall mining
Authors: Chen M. , Zhang C. , Canbulat I. , Saydam S. , Fan G. , Zhang D.
Published: July 2024

Assessment of mining impact on groundwater is one of critical considerations for longwall extension and sustainability, however usually constrained by limited data availability, hydrogeological variation, and the complex coupled hydro-mechanical behaviour. This paper aims to determine the factors and mechanism of groundwater depressurisation and identify knowledge gaps and methodological limitations for improving groundwater impact assessment. Analysis of dewatering cases in Australian, Chinese, and US coalfields demonstrates that piezometric drawdown can further lead to surface hydrology degradation, while the hydraulic responses vary with longwall parameters and geological conditions. Statistical interpretation of 422 height of fracturing datasets indicates that the groundwater impact positively correlates to panel geometry and depth of cover, and more pronounced in panel interaction and top coal caving cases. In situ stress, rock competency, clay mineral infillings, fault, valley topography, and surface–subsurface water interaction are geological and hydrogeological factors influencing groundwater hydraulics and long-term recovery. The dewatering mechanism involves permeability enhancement and extensive flow through fracture networks, where interconnected fractures provide steep hydraulic gradients and smooth flow pathways draining the overlying water to goaf of lower heads. Future research should improve fracture network identification and interconnectivity quantification, accompanied by description of fluid flow dynamics in the high fracture frequency and large fracture aperture context. The paper recommends a research framework to address the knowledge gaps with continuous data collection and field-scale numerical modelling as key technical support. The paper consolidates the understanding of longwall mining impacting mine hydrology and provides viewpoints that facilitate an improved assessment of groundwater depressurisation.
Ultrafast Response and Threshold Adjustable Intelligent Thermoelectric Systems for Next-Generation Self-Powered Remote IoT Fire Warning
Authors: Ding Zhaofu , Li Gang , Wang Yejun , Du Chunyu , Ye Zhenqiang , Liang Lirong , Tang Long-Cheng , Chen Guangming
Published: July 2024

Fire warning is vital to human life, economy and ecology. However, the development of effective warning systems faces great challenges of fast response, adjustable threshold and remote detecting. Here, we propose an intelligent self-powered remote IoT fire warning system, by employing single-walled carbon nanotube/titanium carbide thermoelectric composite films. The flexible films, prepared by a convenient solution mixing, display p-type characteristic with excellent high-temperature stability, flame retardancy and TE (power factor of 239.7 ± 15.8 μW m−1 K−2) performances. The comprehensive morphology and structural analyses shed light on the underlying mechanisms. And the assembled TE devices (TEDs) exhibit fast fire warning with adjustable warning threshold voltages (1–10 mV). Excitingly, an ultrafast fire warning response time of ~ 0.1 s at 1 mV threshold voltage is achieved, rivaling many state-of-the-art systems. Furthermore, TE fire warning systems reveal outstanding stability after 50 repeated cycles and desired durability even undergoing 180 days of air exposure. Finally, a TED-based wireless intelligent fire warning system has been developed by coupling an amplifier, analog-to-digital converter and Bluetooth module. By combining TE characteristics, high-temperature stability and flame retardancy with wireless IoT signal transmission, TE-based hybrid system developed here is promising for next-generation self-powered remote IoT fire warning applications.
A generalized uniform placement of alters on spherical surface (U-PASS) for visualizing general weighted networks
Authors: Huang Emily Chao-Hui , Phoa Frederick Kin Hing , Chen Yan-Hong
Published: July 2024

Network visualization is an important tool for extracting information from the structure and configuration of a network, especially when the network includes weighted edges and nodes with attribute information. Previous studies have demonstrated an effective visualization method that projects the network onto a spherical surface. In this work, we extend this method, known as Uniform Placement of Alters on Spherical Surface (U-PASS), to general weighted networks. This extension enables the uniform distribution of network nodes across multiple layers of concentric spheres. In addition, we discuss the lower bound of a criterion called generalized spherical cap discrepancy, which is used to evaluate the uniformity of node distribution on a collapsed spherical surface.
Signal processing implementation of low-cost target speed detection of CW radar using FPGA
Authors: Salem Sameh G. , Hosseny Mohamed El
Published: July 2024

The low-cost Continuous Wave (CW) radar architecture for object speed detection is presented in this research. An FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) processor is utilized to implement the CW radar dependably and optimally. The suggested approach uses a bank of filters made expressly to extract velocity information from radar signals to compute the target velocity. Depending on the needs of the particular application, the acquired data has either undergone additional processing or been presented in an approachable manner. The implemented design is checked in real-time with a chip scope, functionally simulated, and then inspected with lab instruments to compare all simulated and implemented outcomes. Numerous applications, such as industrial automation, surveillance, and automotive systems, where accurate velocity detection is crucial and low-cost design is required, could benefit from this concept.
Bipolar Neutrosophic Dombi-Based Heronian Mean Operators and Their Application in Multi-criteria Decision-Making Problems
Authors: Yaacob Siti Nurhidayah , Hashim Hazwani , Awang Noor Azzah , Sulaiman Nor Hashimah , Al-Quran Ashraf , Abdullah Lazim
Published: July 2024

Dombi operations based on the Dombi t-norm (TN) and t-conorm (TCN) have the advantage in terms of operational parameter flexibility in dealing with varying degrees of uncertainty and aggregation requirements. Meanwhile, Heronian mean (HM) operator is an effective technique for capturing the interrelationship between any number of inputs. Bipolar neutrosophic set (BNS) offers the ability to represent both positive and negative information as well as indeterminate information. It is beneficial in cases where there is uncertainty or insufficient information. However, the existing Dombi operator under BNS do not take into account the interrelationship between input arguments. To overcome this limitation, this study incorporates Dombi operator into HM and propose the bipolar neutrosophic Dombi Heronian mean aggregation operator. This paper introduces two type of aggregation operators namely bipolar neutrosophic Dombi-based generalized weighted Heronian mean (BND-GWHM), and bipolar neutrosophic Dombi-based improved generalized weighted Heronian mean (BND-IGWHM). The proposed operators are integrated into MCDM procedure. The influence of different parameter values on decision-making results is discussed. Finally, a comparison analysis with existing methods is also provided.
Understanding pedestrian movement using urban sensing technologies: the promise of audio-based sensors
Authors: Han Chaeyeon , Seshadri Pavan , Ding Yiwei , Posner Noah , Koo Bon Woo , Agrawal Animesh , Lerch Alexander , Guhathakurta Subhrajit
Published: July 2024

While various sensors have been deployed to monitor vehicular flows, sensing pedestrian movement is still nascent. Yet walking is a significant mode of travel in many cities, especially those in Europe, Africa, and Asia. Understanding pedestrian volumes and flows is essential for designing safer and more attractive pedestrian infrastructure and for controlling periodic overcrowding. This study discusses a new approach to scale up urban sensing of people with the help of novel audio-based technology. It assesses the benefits and limitations of microphone-based sensors as compared to other forms of pedestrian sensing. A large-scale dataset called ASPED is presented, which includes high-quality audio recordings along with video recordings used for labeling the pedestrian count data. The baseline analyses highlight the promise of using audio sensors for pedestrian tracking, although algorithmic and technological improvements to make the sensors practically usable continue. This study also demonstrates how the data can be leveraged to predict pedestrian trajectories. Finally, it discusses the use cases and scenarios where audio-based pedestrian sensing can support better urban and transportation planning.
Stabilization of the stainless-steel interface using sequentially deposited Al2O3 nano films using atomic layer deposition (ALD) technique
Authors: Sharma Abhishek , Manna Sudipa , Mishra Prem Kumar , Singh Surendra , Satpati Ashis Kumar
Published: July 2024

Atomic layer deposition (ALD) has been an important surface processing technique of materials of important applications. In the present investigation aluminum oxide thin films are generated using ALD technique (ALD-Al2O3). The ALD-Al2O3 films are formed over SS304 substrates with thicknesses of 20, 75 and 100 nm and the corrosion investigations are carried out using polarization and impedance measurements. The neutron reflectivity measurements are carried out to measure the thickness and surface roughness of the film. The corrosion property of SS304 observed to be reduced on ALD deposition which has been evident from the polarization measurements and supported by the electrochemical impedance measurements. The ennoblement in the corrosion potential has been observed due to the ALD-Al2O3 film formation over the SS304 surface. The polarization resistance remained high even at high applied anodic potential of 0.7 V, the protection remained stable even at an elevated temperature of 60οC.The investigation supports the primary objective of the important role of the protection of material through thin ALD-Al2O3 protective films.
SlTDC modulates photosynthesis of senescent leaves in tomato
Authors: Wang Yanan , Jing Tongtong , Liu Xutao , Ai Xizhen , Bi Huangai
Published: July 2024

Melatonin (MT) is a key regulator in plants’ response to leaf senescence induced by aging or various abiotic stresses. Here, we demonstrated that darkness and leaf aging enhance endogenous MT levels by upregulating key genes involved in MT synthesis. Additionally, exogenous MT application significantly mitigated leaf senescence induced by darkness and leaf aging in tomato plants, leading to higher chlorophyll content and maximum photochemical efficiency (Fv/Fm) compared to the control. Using Solanum lycopersicum L. tryptophan decarboxylase (SlTDC)-overexpressed and -knockout transgenic tomato seedlings, we found that SlTDC overexpression increased endogenous MT content and suppressed mRNA levels of chlorophyll degradation-related genes: pheophorbide a oxygenase (PAO), pheophytinase (PPH), and non-yellow coloring1 like (NOL). Furthermore, SlTDC overexpression alleviated photosystem II complex (PSII) photoinhibition, increased ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase (Rubisco) and Rubisco activase (RCA) activities and mRNA levels, and maintained higher photosynthetic efficiency in leaves under darkness and in leaves aged over 35 d compared to wild-type plants. Conversely, SlTDC knockout accelerated darkness- or leaf aging-induced leaf senescence in tomatoes. Our findings suggest that MT application or SlTDC overexpression can effectively alleviate leaf senescence by regulating photosynthesis in tomato plants.