bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Three-dimensional elastoplastic finite element model for residual stresses in the shot peening process
Authors: ElTobgy M S , Ng E , Elbestawi M A
Published: November 2004

The fatigue life of mechanical components subjected to variable loading conditions is a crucial parameter in the design of automotive and aerospace mechanical components. The fatigue strength of the component can be improved by inducing compressive residual stress in the surface and subsurface layers by the shot peening process. This increases the failure strain magnitude for crack nucleation and propagation. Extensive experimental results have been published on the effect of shot peening process parameters on residual stress distributions and subsequently on fatigue performance. Numerical simulation of residual stres induced by the shot peening process is important for understanding and optimization of the process in terms of the residual stress profile and maximum shot coverage in the shortest time. In this paper, an elastoplastic finite element (FE) model will be presented to simulate the shot peening process in three-dimensional configuration. The FE model takes into account numerical and material damping, thermal elastic—plastic material behaviour, a rigid or deformable body for the shot and the effects of multiple shot impacts. The workpiece material modelled was AISI 4340 steel at HRC 52 ± 2. The effects of strain hardening, strain rate and temperature were considered in the non-linear material model. Results show that the predicted residual stress profile agreed well with that acquired from published experimental results provided the shot was modelled as a deformable body and material damping was considered.
Evaluation system for the cutting properties of grinding wheels
Authors: Urbaniak M
Published: November 2004

The article presents fundamentals and implementation of a multi-unit system for evaluation of a grinding wheel. The system includes a complex set of prognoses that are formulated using artificial neural network modeling. The system was designed with the aid of experimental data, which was obtained from the measurement of grinding wheel cutting surface, using the stylus method. The prognostics model of grinding wheel topography, models of potential cutting properties and operational properties of grinding wheel were developed.
The adoption of STEP-NC for the manufacture of asymmetric rotational components
Authors: Rosso R S U , Newman S T , Rahimifard S
Published: November 2004

This paper reports ongoing research on the use of the evolving ISO 14649 standard, informally termed STEP-NC, which represents a new data model for the next generation of computer numerical controllers. The paper presents the major challenges in implementing STEP-compliant CAD/CAM (computer-aided design/manufacture) systems for manufacturing asymmetric rotational parts. It also discusses the need for a new ISO 14649 schema specific for asymmetric rotational parts and outlines a feasible solution to use the ISO 14649 data model for turn/mill machining.
Monotonicity conjecture for multi-party entanglement. Part I
Authors: Gadde Abhijit , Jain Shraiyance , Krishna Vineeth , Kulkarni Harshal , Sharma Trakshu
Published: February 2024

Abstract

In this paper, we conjecture a monotonicity property that we call monotonicity under coarse-graining for a class of multi-partite entanglement measures. We check these properties by computing the measures for various types of states using different methods.
Direct bounds on Left-Right gauge boson masses at LHC Run 2
Authors: Solera Sergio Ferrando , Pich Antonio , Silva Luiz Vale
Published: February 2024

Abstract

While the third run of the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) is ongoing, the underlying theory that extends the Standard Model remains so far unknown. Left-Right Models (LRMs) introduce a new gauge sector, and can restore parity symmetry at high enough energies. If LRMs are indeed realized in nature, the mediators of the new weak force can be searched for in colliders via their direct production. We recast existing experimental limits from the LHC Run 2 and derive generic bounds on the masses of the heavy LRM gauge bosons. As a novelty, we discuss the dependence of the WR and ZR total width on the LRM scalar content, obtaining model-independent bounds within the specific realizations of the LRM scalar sectors analysed here. These bounds avoid the need to detail the spectrum of the scalar sector, and apply in the general case where no discrete symmetry is enforced. Moreover, we emphasize the impact on the WR production at LHC of general textures of the right-handed quark mixing matrix without manifest left-right symmetry. We find that the WR and ZR masses are constrained to lie above 2 TeV and 4 TeV, respectively.
Gradient Decay in the Boltzmann Theory of Non-isothermal Boundary
Authors: Chen Hongxu , Kim Chanwoo
Published: February 2024

We consider the Boltzmann equation in a convex domain with a non-isothermal boundary of diffuse reflection. For both unsteady/steady problems, we construct solutions belonging to $$W^{1,p}_x$$

W
x

1
,
p

for any $$p<3$$

p
<
3

. We prove that the unsteady solution converges to the steady solution in the same Sobolev space exponentially quickly as $$t \rightarrow \infty $$

t
→
∞

.
Zeta functions in higher Teichmüller theory
Authors: Pollicott Mark , Sharp Richard
Published: February 2024

In this note we introduce zeta functions and L-functions for discrete and faithful representations of surface groups in $$\textrm{PSL}(d, \mathbb R)$$

PSL
(
d
,
R
)

, for $$d \ge 3$$

d
≥
3

. These are natural generalizations of the well known classical Selberg zeta function and L-function for Fuchsian groups, corresponding to the case $$d=2$$

d
=
2

. We show that these complex functions have meromorphic extensions to the entire complex plane $$\mathbb C$$
C
.
The therapeutic value of Myrtus communis L.: an updated review
Authors: Al-Snafi Ali Esmail , Teibo John Oluwafemi , Shaheen Hazem M. , Akinfe Opeyemi Abigail , Teibo Titilade Kehinde Ayandeyi , Emieseimokumo Numonde , Elfiky Mohamed M. , Al-kuraishy Hayder M. , Al-Garbeeb Ali I. , Alexiou Athanasios , Papadakis Marios , Mahana Hitham Alaa Mohammed , Younes Ahmed Maher , Elbanna Osama Ashraf , Qasem Abd-elrahman Ali Radwan , Shahin Ibrahim Yasser Ibrahim , Batiha Gaber El-Saber
Published: February 2024

Myrtus communis L. (Family: Myrtaceae) is naturally found in the western part of Asia, Southern Europe, and North Africa. It has been reportedly applied in pharmaceutical industry, traditional medicine, cosmetics, spices, and food. Pubmed, Google scholar, Web of Science, and Scopus were utilized to seek out relevant content concerning the therapeutic potential of M. communis. Subsequently, we conducted a review to identity noteworthy updates pertaining to M. communis. Myrtle berries, leaves, seeds, and essential oils are natural sources of several nutrients and bioactive compounds with marked health effects. The chemical analysis showed that M. communis contained oils, alkaloids, flavonoids, phenolics, coumarins, saponosides, tannins, quinines, and anthraquinones. A pharmacological investigation revealed that M. communis possessed anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antimicrobial, antiparasitic, antioxidant, antidiabetic, anticancer, antimutagenic, immunomodulatory, dermatological, cardiovascular, central nervous system, and gastrointestinal protective effects, among numerous other biological effects. This current review focused on the biochemical, pharmacological, therapeutic effects, and various biological activities of different parts of M. communis. It signifies that M. communis is a therapeutic plant with numerous applications in medicine and could be used as a drug isolate based on its safety and effectiveness.
Black-and-white pelage as visually protective coloration in colobus monkeys
Authors: Nokelainen Ossi , Winters Sandra , Rowe Zeke , Campos Fernando A. , Wikberg Eva C. , Howell Natasha , Caro Tim
Published: February 2024

Conspicuous coloration is often seen as the evolutionary consequence of either sexual selection or warning predators visually about prey defences, although not all conspicuous species fit this paradigm. Exceptions include several species of colobus monkeys whose black-and-white coloration, characteristic of larger colobines, has never been explained. Here, using photographs of black-and-white colobus (Colobus vellerosus) taken in the wild, quantitative image analysis, and vision modelling (acuity-corrected feline, chimpanzee, and raptor vision), we provide evidence that their coloration provides distance-dependent camouflage in natural forest environments. At all viewing distances, black-and-white colobus monkeys blend into their environment because of their high chromatic overlap with the background when viewed by ecologically relevant predator vision models which have low visual acuities. Additionally, for chimpanzee and felid vision, there was evidence of edge disruption at longer viewing distances. Our comparative analyses of different species of colobines do not support an association between black-and-white coloration and larger body mass or group size, but this may simply be due to the limited number of species within the family. We reason that black-and-white colobines gain visually protective coloration through background matching against felids, and also benefit through disruptive coloration against felids and chimpanzees but rely on these protective coloration mechanisms less against raptors.

Significance statement

Conspicuous black-and-white coloration in colobus monkeys has long eluded an evolutionary explanation. Our research, employing photographs of colobus monkeys, image analysis, and vision modelling, unveils a novel approach to this coloration. We show that in their natural forest habitats, black-and-white colobus monkeys employ distance-dependent camouflage against ecologically relevant predators with low visual acuity, blending in with the background at increasing viewing distances. In summary, the evolution of black-and-white colobus coloration appears to be related to background matching against felids, with added benefits of disruptive camouflage against felids and chimpanzees, less so to raptors, offering fresh insights into the complex interplay of coloration and survival strategies in mammals.
Effect of no-till followed by crop diversification on the soil microbiome in a boreal short cereal rotation
Authors: Fritze Hannu , Tuomivirta Tero , Orrù Luigi , Canfora Loredana , Cuartero Jessica , Ros Margarita , Pascual Jose Antonio , Zornosa Raúl , Egea-Cortines Marcos , Lång Kristiina , Kaseva Janne , Peltoniemi Krista
Published: February 2024

Diversification of agricultural practices, including changes in crop rotation, intercropping or cover cropping, influence the soil microbiome. Here the impact of tillage and crop diversification on the soil microbiome is reported, being one of the few boreal studies. The field experiment consisted of four treatments with four replications all having a short cereal rotation practice namely an oat (Avena sativa) – spring barley (Hordeum vulgare) – wheat (Triticum aestivum) rotation for the past 10 years until spring 2018. During that period two of the treatments were conventionally tilled with moldboard ploughing whereas the other two were no-tillage treatments. From the growing season 2018 until fall 2020 the main crop in all treatments was spring barley. The first conventional tillage treatment was diversified with English ryegrass (Lolium perenne) as an undersown cover crop for the next three growing seasons. The first no-tillage treatment continued with spring barley only. The second conventional tillage and no-tillage treatment had winter rapeseed in rotation in 2019. Bulk soils were sampled in May 2018 before diversification and then in October 2018, 2019, and 2020. The results showed a clear effect of tillage on the beta-diversity of the soil microbiome and an increase in fungal richness. Barley monoculture interrupted with winter rapeseed resulted in a minor change of the fungal and bacterial community composition. Other fungal and bacterial alpha diversity measures did not react to tillage or diversification nor did the gene copy abundances involved in the N cycle. In conclusion tillage had a profound effect on the soil microbiome hindering impact of the diversification.
Transmembrane protein 97 is a potential synaptic amyloid beta receptor in human Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Colom-Cadena Martí , Toombs Jamie , Simzer Elizabeth , Holt Kristjan , McGeachan Robert , Tulloch Jane , Jackson Rosemary J. , Catterson James H. , Spires-Jones Maxwell P. , Rose Jamie , Waybright Lora , Caggiano Anthony O. , King Declan , Gobbo Francesco , Davies Caitlin , Hooley Monique , Dunnett Sophie , Tempelaar Robert , Meftah Soraya , Tzioras Makis , Hamby Mary E. , Izzo Nicholas J. , Catalano Susan M. , Durrant Claire S. , Smith Colin , Dando Owen , Spires-Jones Tara L.
Published: February 2024

Synapse loss correlates with cognitive decline in Alzheimer’s disease, and soluble oligomeric amyloid beta (Aβ) is implicated in synaptic dysfunction and loss. An important knowledge gap is the lack of understanding of how Aβ leads to synapse degeneration. In particular, there has been difficulty in determining whether there is a synaptic receptor that binds Aβ and mediates toxicity. While many candidates have been observed in model systems, their relevance to human AD brain remains unknown. This is in part due to methodological limitations preventing visualization of Aβ binding at individual synapses. To overcome this limitation, we combined two high resolution microscopy techniques: array tomography and Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) to image over 1 million individual synaptic terminals in temporal cortex from AD (n = 11) and control cases (n = 9). Within presynapses and post-synaptic densities, oligomeric Aβ generates a FRET signal with transmembrane protein 97. Further, Aβ generates a FRET signal with cellular prion protein, and post-synaptic density 95 within post synapses. Transmembrane protein 97 is also present in a higher proportion of post synapses in Alzheimer’s brain compared to controls. We inhibited Aβ/transmembrane protein 97 interaction in a mouse model of amyloidopathy by treating with the allosteric modulator CT1812. CT1812 drug concentration correlated negatively with synaptic FRET signal between transmembrane protein 97 and Aβ. In human-induced pluripotent stem cell derived neurons, transmembrane protein 97 is present in synapses and colocalizes with Aβ when neurons are challenged with human Alzheimer’s brain homogenate. Transcriptional changes are induced by Aβ including changes in genes involved in neurodegeneration and neuroinflammation. CT1812 treatment of these neurons caused changes in gene sets involved in synaptic function. These data support a role for transmembrane protein 97 in the synaptic binding of Aβ in human Alzheimer’s disease brain where it may mediate synaptotoxicity.
Assessment of immunoprecipitation with subsequent immunoassays for the blood-based diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Morgado Barbara , Klafki Hans-Wolfgang , Bauer Chris , Waniek Katharina , Esselmann Hermann , Wirths Oliver , Hansen Niels , Lachmann Ingolf , Osterloh Dirk , Schuchhardt Johannes , Wiltfang Jens
Published: February 2024

The Aβ42/40 ratio and the concentration of phosphorylated Tau181 in blood plasma represent attractive biomarkers for Alzheimer's disease. As a means for reducing potential matrix effects, which may interfere with plasma immunoassays, we have previously developed a pre-analytical sample workup by semi-automated immunoprecipitation. Here we test the compatibility of pre-analytical immunoprecipitations with automated Aβ1-40, Aβ1-42 and phosphorylated Tau181 immunoassays on the Lumipulse platform and compare the diagnostic performance of the respective immunoprecipitation immunoassay approaches with direct plasma measurements. 71 participants were dichotomized according to their Aβ42/40 ratios in cerebrospinal fluid into the diagnostic groups amyloid-positive (n = 32) and amyloid-negative (n = 39). The plasma Aβ1-42/1-40 ratio and phosphorylated Tau181 levels were determined on the Lumipulse G600II platform (Fujirebio) by direct measurements in EDTA–plasma or after Aβ- or Tau-immunoprecipitation, respectively. Pre-analytical immunoprecipitation of Aβ turned out to be compatible with the Lumipulse Aβ assays and resulted in a numerical, yet statistically not significant increase in the area under the ROC curve for plasma Aβ1-42/1-40. Additionally, we observed a significant increase in the standardised effect size (Cohen’s D). Pre-analytical immunoprecipitation of Tau resulted in increased differences between the diagnostic groups in terms of median and mean phosphorylated Tau 181 levels. Furthermore, we observed a greater Cohen’s d (p < 0.001) and a larger area under the ROC curve (p = 0.038) after Tau-IP. Our preliminary findings in a small, preselected sample indicate that pre-analytical immunoprecipitation may have the potential to improve the diagnostic performance of plasma biomarker immunoassays for Aβ1-42/1-40 and phosphorylated Tau181 to predict brain amyloid deposition.
Molecular pathological classification of colorectal cancer—an update
Authors: Dunne Philip D. , Arends Mark J.
Published: February 2024

Colorectal cancer (CRC) has a broad range of molecular alterations with two major mechanisms of genomic instability (chromosomal instability and microsatellite instability) and has been subclassified into 4 consensus molecular subtypes (CMS) based on bulk RNA sequence data. Here, we update the molecular pathological classification of CRC with an overview of more recent bulk and single-cell RNA data analysis for development of transcriptional classifiers and risk stratification methods, taking into account the marked inter-tumoural and intra-tumoural heterogeneity of CRC. The importance of the stromal and immune components or tumour microenvironment (TME) to prognosis has emerged from these analyses. Attempts to remove the contribution of the tumour microenvironment and reveal neoplastic-specific transcriptional traits involved identification of the CRC intrinsic subtypes (CRIS). The use of immunohistochemistry and digital pathology to implement classification systems are evolving fields. Conventional adenoma versus serrated polyp pathway transcriptomic analysis and characterisation of canonical LGR5+ crypt base columnar stem cell versus ANXA1+ regenerative stem cell phenotypes emerged as key properties for improved understanding of transcriptional signals involved in molecular subclassification of colorectal cancers. Recently, classification by three pathway-derived subtypes (PDS1-3) has been developed, revealing a continuum of intrinsic biology associated with biological, stem cell, histopathological, and clinical attributes.
Approved immune checkpoint inhibitors in hepatocellular carcinoma: a large-scale meta-analysis and systematic review
Authors: Zhang Ruyi , Wang Fang , You Zhiyu , Deng Dongyang , He Jiangyan , Yan Wentao , Quan Jian , Wang Jing , Yan Shujuan
Published: February 2024

A meta-analysis was performed to assess the benefits and safety profile of approved immune checkpoint inhibitors in hepatocellular carcinoma patients. Eligible studies were searched from Cochrane, Embase, and PubMed databases based on a well-established strategy. Following the exclusion of ineligible studies, 12 studies were included in this meta-analysis. Compared with control group, immune checkpoint inhibitors were associated with improved ORR (OR 3.03, 95% CI 2.26–4.05, P < 0.00001), SD (OR 0.77, 95% CI 0.62–0.95, P = 0.02), OS (HR 0.75, 95% CI 0.68–0.83, P < 0.00001), and PFS (HR 0.74, 95% CI 0.63–0.87, P < 0.0003). However, no significant differences were observed in DCR (OR 1.33, 95% CI 0.97–1.81, P = 0.07), PD (OR 0.90, 95% CI 0.67–1.21, P = 0.48), and all caused any-grade adverse events (OR 1.22, 95% CI 0.62–2.39, P = 0. 57), all caused ≥ grade 3 adverse events (OR 1.10, 95% CI 0.97–1.25, P = 0.14), treatment-related any-grade adverse events (OR 1.13, 95% CI 0.55–2.32, P = 0.73), and treatment-related ≥ grade 3 events (OR 0.82, 95% CI 0.34–1.97, P = 0.65) between the two groups. After subgroup analysis conducted, patients in the immune checkpoint inhibitor group compared with targeted drug group showed significant improvements in OS (HR 0.74, 95% CI 0.66–0.84, P < 0.00001) and PFS (HR 0.75, 95% CI 0.61–0.91, P = 0.004). Immune checkpoint inhibitors have demonstrated peculiar benefits in the treatment of HCC with an acceptable safety profile. Compared to targeted drugs, immune checkpoint inhibitors still offer advantages in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma. However, there is still considerable room for further improvement.
Evaluierung der Unterschiede zwischen sequenzieller chemischer und elektrolytischer Extraktion anhand von Seltene Erden (SE)-haltigen Einschlüssen
Authors: Schickbichler M. , Thiele K. , Michelic S. K.
Published: February 2024

In metallurgischen Anwendungen nimmt der Einsatz von Seltenen Erden (SE) eine zunehmend größere Rolle ein. Diese werden in modernen Herstellungsprozessen nicht nur als Kornfeinungsmittel eingesetzt, sondern auch zur Markierung von Desoxidationsprodukten. Durch das Tracen der Einschlüsse (NME) ist es möglich, die Modifikation von beispielsweise Aluminiumoxiden über den Prozess zu verfolgen und zu erforschen. Aufgrund der teilweisen Reduktion der bestehenden NME kommt es zur Veränderung dieser hinsichtlich der chemischen und physikalischen Eigenschaften, sowie ihrer Morphologie.

Die Modifikation der Einschlüsse mittels SE kann ebenfalls ihre Löslichkeit in verschiedenen Chemikalien beeinflussen. Daher liegt ein Fokus der durchgeführten Studie darauf, die Stabilität der gebildeten komplexen mehrphasigen SE-Al-Oxide mithilfe häufig angewandter Extraktionsmethoden zu untersuchen.

Dabei kommt es zur Evaluierung der Anwendbarkeit von elektrolytischer und sequenzieller chemischer Extraktionstechnik für SE-haltige Einschlüsse. Bei den Proben für diese Studie handelt es sich um Ultra-Low Carbon (ULC)-Stähle, die durch Ce modifizierte Aluminiumoxide beinhalten. Ziel ist es, zusätzlich zur Überprüfung der Stabilität dieser mehrphasigen Einschlüsse bei verschiedenen Extraktionsmethoden auch die Anzahl an Einschlüssen pro Volumen zu prognostizieren. Dazu findet eine Berechnung der NME-Konzentration mittels des Modells nach Woodhead statt und anschließend werden die Ergebnisse dieser Modellrechnung mit der gemessenen Anzahl an NME pro Volumen verglichen.
A systematic review on the qualitative experiences of people living with lung cancer in rural areas
Authors: Ali Nabilah , Nelson David , McInnerney Daisy , Quaife Samantha L. , Laparidou Despina , Selby Peter , Kane Ros , Civello Sarah , Skinner Dawn , Pogson Zara , Peake Michael D. , Harding-Bell Ava , Cooke Samuel
Published: February 2024

Purpose

To synthesize the qualitative literature exploring the experiences of people living with lung cancer in rural areas.

Methods

Searches were performed in MEDLINE, CINAHL, and PsycINFO. Articles were screened independently by two reviewers against pre-determined eligibility criteria. Data were synthesized using Thomas and Harden’s framework for the thematic synthesis of qualitative research. The CASP qualitative checklist was used for quality assessment and the review was reported in accordance with the ENTREQ and PRISMA checklists.

Results

Nine articles were included, from which five themes were identified: (1) diagnosis and treatment pathways, (2) travel and financial burden, (3) communication and information, (4) experiences of interacting with healthcare professionals, (5) symptoms and health-seeking behaviors. Lung cancer diagnosis was unexpected for some with several reporting treatment delays and long wait times regarding diagnosis and treatment. Accessing treatment was perceived as challenging and time-consuming due to distance and financial stress. Inadequate communication of information from healthcare professionals was a common concern expressed by rural people living with lung cancer who also conveyed dissatisfaction with their healthcare professionals. Some were reluctant to seek help due to geographical distance and sociocultural factors whilst others found it challenging to identify symptoms due to comorbidities.

Conclusions

This review provides a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by people with lung cancer in rural settings, through which future researchers can begin to develop tailored support to address the existing disparities that affect this population.
Solving the SAT problem with the string multiset rewriting calculus
Authors: Battyányi Péter
Published: February 2024

In this paper, we develop computing machinery within the framework of the String Multiset Rewriting calculus (SMSR), as defined by Barbuti et al. [4], to solve the SAT problem in linear time regarding the number of variables of a given conjunctive normal form. This shows that SMSR can be considered a computational model capable of significantly reducing the time requirement of classical decision problems.
Parental Expressed Emotion and Behavioural Outcomes in Autistic Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review
Authors: Marshall Corinne , Hoshi Rosa , Gregory James
Published: February 2024

Growing interest in the links between parent–child relationships and child behavioural presentations in families of autistic children has led to an increased use of the Five Minute Speech Sample (FMSS) measure of parental expressed emotion (EE) in autism research. This review focuses on studies exploring the relationships between parental EE and behavioural outcomes in autistic children. Electronic searches of six databases and grey literature wielded eight studies that met eligibility criteria. Study designs were a mixture of cross-sectional and longitudinal and quality of studies was variable. Parental criticism was largely positively related to, and showed some predictive value for, child behaviour problems. Warmth was mostly negatively related to, and showed some predictive value for, child behaviour problems. Preliminary evidence from one study showed paternal warmth to be significantly related to child behaviours, whilst child behaviours were also significantly related to paternal warmth, suggesting a bidirectional relationship. Analysis of additional EE components produced variable results, however parental stress and depressive symptoms were consistently related to child behaviour, and preliminary evidence suggests a possible role of maternal education level and family cohesion. Outcomes were variable across FMSS coding systems and greater consistency in their application is needed in future research. The current findings suggest that parental EE has an important relationship with child behaviour and future intervention efforts may benefit from aiming to reduced EE in order to improve child outcomes.
Enhancing Semi Supervised Semantic Segmentation Through Cycle-Consistent Label Propagation in Video
Authors: Addanki Veerababu , Yerramreddy Dhanvanth Reddy , Durgapu Sathvik , Boddu Sasi Sai Nadh , Durgapu Vyshnav
Published: February 2024

To perform semantic image segmentation using deep learning models, a significant quantity of data and meticulous manual annotation is necessary (Mani in: Research anthology on improving medical imaging techniques for analysis and intervention. IGI Global, pp. 107–125, 2023), and the process consumes a lot of resources, including time and money. To resolve such issues, we introduce a unique label propagation method (Qin et al. in IEEE/CAA J Autom Sinica 10(5):1192–1208, 2023) that utilizes cycle consistency across time to propagate labels over longer time horizons with higher accuracy. Additionally, we acknowledge that dense pixel annotation is a noisy process (Das et al. in: Proceedings of the IEEE/CVF winter conference on applications of computer vision, pp. 5978–5987, 2023), whether performed manually or automatically. To address this, we present a principled approach that accounts for label uncertainty when training with labels from multiple noisy labeling processes. We introduce two new approaches; Warp-Refine Propagation and Uncertainty-Aware Training, for improving label propagation and handling noisy labels, respectively, and support the process with quantitative and qualitative evaluations and theoretical justification. Our contributions are validated on the Cityscapes and ApolloScape datasets, where we achieve encouraging results. In later endeavors, the aim should be to expand such approaches to include other noisy augmentation processes like image-based rendering methods (Laraqui et al. in Int J Comput Aid Eng Technol 18(5):141–151, 2023), thanks to the noisy label learning approach.
Boosted Electrocatalytic Glucose Oxidation Reaction on Noble-Metal-Free MoO3-Decorated Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Men Yu-Long , Dou Ning , Zhao Yiyi , Huang Yan , Zhang Lei , Liu Peng
Published: February 2024

Electrocatalytic glucose oxidation reaction (GOR) has attracted much attention owing to its crucial role in biofuel cell fabrication. Herein, we load MoO3 nanoparticles on carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and use a discharge process to prepare a noble-metal-free MC-60 catalyst containing MoO3, Mo2C, and a Mo2C–MoO3 interface. In the GOR, MC-60 shows activity as high as 745 µA/(mmol/L cm2), considerably higher than those of the Pt/CNT (270 µA/(mmol/L cm2)) and Au/CNT catalysts (110 µA/(mmol/L cm2)). In the GOR, the response minimum on MC-60 is as low as 8 µmol/L, with a steady-state response time of only 3 s. Moreover, MC-60 has superior stability and anti-interference ability to impurities in the GOR. The better performance of MC-60 in the GOR is attributed to the abundant Mo sites bonding to C and O atoms at the MoO3–Mo2C interface. These Mo sites create active sites for promoting glucose adsorption and oxidation, enhancing MC-60 performance in the GOR. Thus, these results help to fabricate more efficient noble-metal-free catalysts for the fabrication of glucose-based biofuel cells.

Graphical abstract
A Modified Delphi Study to Establish Essential Clinical Pharmacology Competencies
Authors: Johnson-Williams Bernadette , Reynolds Kellie , Gobburu Joga , Rundio Albert
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Competency-based education has been commonly used to enhance the healthcare workforce for some time. A translational discipline that is integral to drug development and impactful on healthcare and public health is clinical pharmacology. With such contribution, it is essential that the clinical pharmacology workforce is adequately equipped to address the demands of emerging trends of drug development.

Objectives

The primary objective of this study was to determine the most significant competencies needed for a clinical pharmacologist in the regulatory environment.

Methods

A two round modified Delphi technique was administered to 29 clinical pharmacologists within the Office of Clinical Pharmacology (OCP) between November 2021–January 2022.

A questionnaire consisting of core and technical competencies was administered electronically using SurveyMonkey ® to gain consensus about essential clinical pharmacology competencies. Participants used a Likert scale to rank importance of competencies from strongly agree (1), agree (2), neutral (3), disagree (4), strongly disagree (5). Participants also suggested topics to be included in the next round. Consensus was set at 60%. The competencies receiving the most consensus at 60% in round one and the new topics proceeded to the second round. In the second and final round, participants ranked the suggested competencies. Descriptive statistics and a McNemar change test were utilized to analyze data. Only data from the participants who completed both rounds was used in the study.

Results

In round one participants ranked all fifty-six core and technical competencies as essential with consensus of at least 60%. In round two, participants ranked sixty-two competencies as essential with consensus of at least 60%. A McNemar change test demonstrated stability of ranking between rounds.

Conclusion

Essential core and technical competencies can build education programs to sustain the emerging clinical pharmacology workforce in the Office of Clinical Pharmacology. The Delphi technique is a suitable approach to determine essential competencies because it cultivates consensus and gains insight from experts in the forefront of drug development.
Mental healthcare access among resettled Syrian refugees in Leipzig, Germany
Authors: Schoenberger Samantha F. , Schönenberg Kim , Fuhr Daniela C. , Nesterko Yuriy , Glaesmer Heide , Sondorp Egbert , Woodward Aniek , Sijbrandij Marit , Cuijpers Pim , Massazza Alessandro , McKee Martin , Roberts Bayard
Published: February 2024

Our aim was to examine mental health needs and access to mental healthcare services among Syrian refugees in the city of Leipzig, Germany. We conducted a cross-sectional survey with Syrian refugee adults in Leipzig, Germany in 2021/2022. Outcomes included PTSD (PCL-5), depression (PHQ-9), anxiety (GAD-7) and somatic symptom (SSS-8). Descriptive, regression and effect modification analyses assessed associations between selected predictor variables and mental health service access. The sampling strategy means findings are applicable only to Syrian refugees in Leipzig. Of the 513 respondents, 18.3% had moderate/severe anxiety symptoms, 28.7% had moderate/severe depression symptoms, and 25.3% had PTSD symptoms. A total of 52.8% reported past year mental health problems, and 48.9% of those participants sought care for these problems. The most common reasons for not accessing mental healthcare services were wanting to handle the problem themselves and uncertainty about where to access services. Adjusted Poisson regression models (n = 259) found significant associations between current mental health symptoms and mental healthcare service access (RR: 1.47, 95% CI: 1.02–2.15, p = 0.041) but significance levels were not reached between somatization and trust in physicians with mental healthcare service access. Syrian refugees in Leipzig likely experience high unmet mental health needs. Community-based interventions for refugee mental health and de-stigmatization activities are needed to address these unmet needs in Leipzig.
Non-human contributions to personality neuroscience: From fish through primates – a concluding editorial overview
Authors: McNaughton N. , Lages Y. V.
Published: February 2024

This special issue attempts to integrate personality, psychopathology, and neuroscience as means to improve understanding of specific traits and trait structures in humans. The key strategy is to dive into comparative research using a range of species to provide simple models. This strategy has, as its foundation, the fact that the most basic functions, and their supporting neural systems, are highly conserved in evolution. The papers collected in the issue show that, from fish, through rats, to primates, the homologies in brain systems and underlying functions (despite species-specific forms of expression) allow simpler cases to provide insights into the neurobiology behind more complex ones including human. Our introductory editorial paper to this special issue took a bottom-up approach, starting with the genetics of conserved brain systems and working up to cognition. Here, we deconstruct the different aspects of personality, progressing from more complex ones in primates to least complex in fish. With the primate section, we summarize papers that discuss the factors that contribute to sociability in primates and how they apply to healthy and pathological human personality traits. In the rat section, the focus is driven by psychopathology and the way that “high” strains selected for extreme behaviors can illuminate the neurobiology of motivated responses to environmental cues. The section on fish summarizes papers that look into the most fundamental emotional reactions to the environment that are governed by primitive and conserved brain structures. This raises metatheoretical questions on the nature of traits and to a section that asks “which animals have personalities.” We believe that the issue as a whole provides a nuanced answer to this question and shines a new, comparative, light on the interpretation of personality structure and the effects on it of evolution.
Evaluating the performance of automated external contouring tool on dose calculation of treatment planning system
Authors: Banaee Nooshin , Aeini Mina , Barough Mehdi Salehi
Published: February 2024

Introduction

The main goal of radiation therapy is to eradicate all cancer cells and minimize the damage to healthy tissues around the tumour. Treatment planning systems are used to predict the outcome of the treatment in terms of dose distribution prior to the treatment. One of the most reliable dose calculation algorithms is Monte Carlo. The aim of this study is to evaluate the performance of automated external contouring tool on dose calculation using Monte Carlo algorithm.

Materials and methods

The external contour of thorax phantom was created by automated tools of Monaco treatment planning system, and then, the IAEA-TECDOC-1583 quality assurance tests were created. Then, the treatment plans were delivered to the phantom, and the dose was measured by the Farmer ionization chamber at specific points. The external contour was corrected according to the source surface distances (SSD) which are mentioned in TECDOC-1583, and the dose was re-calculated. Finally, a comparison was made between the results.

Results

Dosimetric tests of TECDOC-1583 showed the errors ranged from −2·8% to +2·5%. In case of editing external contour and omitting fluctuations, the errors were decreased. The comparisons indicated that the most significant variation occurred in test 4 and the least changes were related to the tests 1 and 3.

Conclusions

The results of the study showed that the fluctuations of the external contour affect the calculated volume of the phantom and thus the dose. In order to obtain correct results, automated external contouring tools should be used with the correct instructions and re-checked before treatment planning.
Methiozolin rate and application frequency influence goosegrass (Eleusine indica) and smooth crabgrass (Digitaria ischaemum) control in turf
Authors: Peppers John M. , McElroy J. Scott , Orlinski Pawel M. , Baird James , Petelewicz Pawel , Joseph Mikerly M. , Sierra-Augustinus I. Alejandra , Schiavon Marco , Askew Shawn D.
Published: February 2024

Methiozolin is labeled for goosegrass and smooth crabgrass control in golf course putting greens, but no peer-reviewed literature exists regarding this use. Greenhouse experiments were conducted evaluating goosegrass and smooth crabgrass response to increasing rates of methiozolin as affected by weed growth stage. In general, as weed growth stage increased, the methiozolin rate required to reduce weed biomass 90% (WR90) increased. Goosegrass was more sensitive to preemergence-applied methiozolin than smooth crabgrass, and the WR90 was 30.4 and 118 g ai ha–1 for goosegrass and smooth crabgrass, respectively. However, smooth crabgrass was generally more sensitive to postemergence-applied methiozolin than goosegrass. Subsequent field studies were conducted to evaluate goosegrass and smooth crabgrass control with methiozolin applied singularly or sequentially at standard preemergence timings. Results indicated methiozolin applied singularly or sequentially at the label-recommended rate (500 g ha–1) is not persistent enough to provide season-long control of goosegrass and smooth crabgrass. Ten field studies were conducted in Alabama, California, Florida, and Virginia to evaluate frequent methiozolin application programs with the objective of providing selective, season-long goosegrass and smooth crabgrass control. Results from these studies indicate methiozolin can be safely applied to hybrid bermudagrass and creeping bentgrass putting greens despite exceeding the yearly maximum use rate for putting greens (2,500 g ha–1) with some treatments. Methiozolin effectively controlled smooth crabgrass throughout the growing season in California and Virginia when 10 biweekly applications were applied at 250 g ha–1 or higher. In Florida, methiozolin did not acceptably (80%) control goosegrass regardless of application rate. In Virginia, methiozolin acceptably controlled goosegrass only when applied at rates and frequencies that exceeded the maximum yearly methiozolin usage rate. These data indicate that methiozolin has the potential to control smooth crabgrass preemergence when applied frequently, but does not provide acceptable goosegrass control at labeled rates.
The Role of Social Capital in Depression During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Matsunaga Lucas Heiki , P. Aldrich Daniel , Faiad Cristiane , Aoki Toshiaki , Tseng Po-Hsing , Aida Jun
Published: February 2024

Abstract: Depression remains a major concern during the COVID-19 pandemic. Social capital provides support for those struggling with this condition. However, we know little about its multidimensional role as a correlate of mental health. We collected data from 896 participants in three major cities in the United States, Brazil, and Japan between December 31, 2020, and March 3, 2021. Using these data, we conducted a multiple linear regression for correlates with depression measured with the PHQ-4 using social cohesion and controls for demographic factors, such as age and gender. Bonding social capital strongly correlated with depression across the three cultures, while other factors varied according to the location. In Brazil and the United States, a substantial correlate was age. To manage the high prevalence of depression, policymakers should encourage strong social ties within communities.
Cross-Cultural Collaborative Translation/Adaptation of Assessments Via International Working Groups
Authors: Young Stephanie Ruth , Freer Caroline , Gefen Naomi , Gonzalez Isabel , Kemps Rachèl , Partanen Marita , Colbert Alison
Published: February 2024

Abstract: Most neuropsychological assessments are developed in English, yet nearly 95% of the global population are not native English speakers. To further compound this problem, translating and adapting assessments is a complex, expensive, and time-consuming process that few individual psychologists can undertake on their own. To overcome these obstacles, we formed an international consulting group of bilingual pediatric rehabilitation/hospital clinicians to translate and adapt a common assessment of cognitive recovery, the Cognitive and Linguistic Scale (CALS), for use with youth in three linguistic/cultural groups: Spanish-speaking youth residing in the United States, Dutch-speaking youth residing in the Netherlands, and Hebrew-speaking youth residing in Israel. We describe the collaborative process of translating and adapting the CALS for the respective populations following the first two stages of the International Test Committee guidelines (Precondition and Test Development). We also present new, more culturally accessible versions of visual stimuli that can be used across many linguistic/cultural groups in the Western world. Initial examination of responses from a preliminary pilot sample of US youth ( N = 11) supported the acceptability of the Spanish translation and new visual stimuli. Next steps for each translated/adapted version of the CALS are discussed, including plans for validation in each respective population. We hope this overview will serve as a model for other groups to help decrease the translation burden on individual clinicians and promote higher-quality translated/adapted assessments that better serve diverse and often underserved patient populations.
Dependence of human cell survival and proliferation on the CASP3 prodomain
Authors: Eskandari Ebrahim , Negri Gian Luca , Tan Susanna , MacAldaz Margarita E. , Ding Shengsen , Long Justin , Nielsen Karina , Spencer Sandra E. , Morin Gregg B. , Eaves Connie J.
Published: February 2024

Mechanisms that regulate cell survival and proliferation are important for both the development and homeostasis of normal tissue, and as well as for the emergence and expansion of malignant cell populations. Caspase-3 (CASP3) has long been recognized for its proteolytic role in orchestrating cell death-initiated pathways and related processes; however, whether CASP3 has other functions in mammalian cells that do not depend on its known catalytic activity have remained unknown. To investigate this possibility, we examined the biological and molecular consequences of reducing CASP3 levels in normal and transformed human cells using lentiviral-mediated short hairpin-based knockdown experiments in combination with approaches designed to test the potential rescue capability of different components of the CASP3 protein. The results showed that a ≥50% reduction in CASP3 levels rapidly and consistently arrested cell cycle progression and survival in all cell types tested. Mass spectrometry-based proteomic analyses and more specific flow cytometric measurements strongly implicated CASP3 as playing an essential role in regulating intracellular protein aggregate clearance. Intriguingly, the rescue experiments utilizing different forms of the CASP3 protein showed its prosurvival function and effective removal of protein aggregates did not require its well-known catalytic capability, and pinpointed the N-terminal prodomain of CASP3 as the exclusive component needed in a diversity of human cell types. These findings identify a new mechanism that regulates human cell survival and proliferation and thus expands the complexity of how these processes can be controlled.
Sulbactam protects neurons against double neurotoxicity of amyloid beta and glutamate load by upregulating glial glutamate transporter 1
Authors: Li Li , Li Wenbin , Jiang Wei , Xu Renhao
Published: February 2024

Amyloid beta (Abeta) synergistically enhances excitotoxicity of glutamate load by impairing glutamate transporter 1 (GLT1) expression and function, which exacerbates the development of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Our previous studies suggested that sulbactam can upregulate the expression levels and capacity of GLT1. Therefore, this study aims to investigate whether sulbactam improves neuronal tolerance against neurotoxicity of Abeta and glutamate load by up-regulating GLT1 in primary neuron-astrocyte co-cultures. Early postnatal P0–P1 Wistar rat pups’ cortices were collected for primary neuron–astrocyte cultures. Hoechst–propidium iodide (HO–PI) stain and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assays were used to analyze neuronal death. Cell counting kit 8 (CCK8) was applied to determine cell viability. Immunofluorescence staining and western blotting were used to assess protein expressions including GLT1, B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCL2), BCL2 associated X (BAX), and cleaved caspase 3 (CCP3). Under the double effect of Abeta and glutamate load, more neurons were lost than that induced by Abeta or glutamate alone, shown as decreased cell viability, increased LDH concentration in the cultural medium, HO–PI positive stains, high CCP3 expression, and high BAX/BCL2 ratio resulting from increased BAX and decreased BCL2 expressions. Notably, pre-incubation with sulbactam significantly attenuated the neuronal loss and activation of apoptosis induced by both Abeta and glutamate in a dose-dependent manner. Simultaneously, both astrocytic and neuronal GLT1 expressions were upregulated after sulbactam incubation. Taken together, it could be concluded that sulbactam protected neurons against double neurotoxicity of Abeta and glutamate load by upregulating GLT1 expression. The conclusion provides evidence for potential intervention using sulbactam in AD research.