bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Micromechanical properties of Al2O3–C refractories with aggregate/matrix interfacial layer by nanoindentation
Authors: Luo Jiyuan , Ding Donghai , Xiao Guoqing
Published: August 2024

The mechanical properties at microlevels are of important meaning for refractories while determining these values is of great challenges. In this contribution, a tailored grid nanoindentation test was employed to determine the micromechanical properties of low‐carbon Al2O3–C refractories featuring reduced brittleness with in situ magnesium aluminate spinel/carbon nanotubes (MgAl2O4/CNTs) compound interfacial layer between the aggregate and matrix. The micromechanical properties, especially Young's modulus (E) and specific fracture energy (Gc) of the aggregate, matrix, and aggregate/matrix interface area of the refractories, were determined and compared. Statistical analysis on the nanoindentation results of the aggregate and matrix in the reference sample and the sample with interfacial layer shows high consistency, which reveals the high feasibility of the method. The median microspecific fracture energy of the aggregate/matrix interface increases from 63.67 J m−2 of the reference group to 132.90 J m−2 of the sample with the compound interfacial layer, which means that higher energy is needed for the initiation and propagation of microcracks within the interfacial layer, accounting for the brittleness reduction of the refractories. Consistent conclusions were drawn from the nanoindentation test at microlevels along with the macrolevel thermal shock test and wedge splitting test.
Modelling heat stress effects on milk production traits in Tunisian Holsteins using a random regression approach
Authors: Soumri Nabil , Carabaño Maria Jesus , González‐Recio Oscar , Bedhiaf‐Romdhani Sonia
Published: August 2024

This study investigated the impact of temperature and humidity on milk production traits in Tunisian dairy cows, analysing population‐level trends and individual cow responses using various modelling techniques and heat stress (HS) indices. Two distinct datasets were used for this purpose: the first included 551,139; 331,654 and 302,396 test‐day records for milk, fat and protein yields, respectively. The second supplemented the production information with daily average (THIavg) and maximum (THImax) temperature‐humidity index (THI) data. Three main parts of analyses were conducted simultaneously: classical least squares, identification of HS thresholds and associated production losses and assessment of individual cow responses using random regression models (RRM) fitting various continuous functions that include/exclude individual effects. The best model, determined by goodness‐of‐fit measurements, was a cubic polynomial function that accounted for individual variation and THIavg as a heat load measure. HS thresholds were established at THIavg/THImax of 70/74 for milk yield, 50/55 for fat percentage, 59/66 for protein percentage, 54/63 for fat yield and 56/66 for protein yield. According to the fitted polynomial models, daily milk production traits showed a curvilinear decline with accelerated loss rates beyond the established thermal thresholds. However, for all models and thermal indices, maximum daily production losses remained below 164 g/day, 4.4 g/day and 6.1 g/day for milk, fat and protein yields, respectively. Despite these losses, the relatively high thermal thresholds and lower associated production losses suggest that Tunisian dairy cows can tolerate high heat loads. Moreover, observed variations in response patterns indicate potential for selecting heat‐tolerant individuals within this population.
Global patterns and determinants of phylogenetic beta diversity among liverwort floras
Authors: Qian Hong , Qian Shenhua , Wang Jian , Kessler Michael
Published: August 2024

Aim

Investigating phylogenetic beta diversity, and its turnover and nestedness components, can shed light on the evolutionary causes shaping the similarity (or dissimilarity) in composition between biological assemblages. Liverworts are important constituents of most terrestrial ecosystems worldwide but studies on phylogenetic beta diversity in liverworts are scarce. Here, we explore geographic patterns of phylogenetic beta diversity and its two components in liverworts across the world and evaluate the relative importance of dispersal limitation and environmental filtering processes in shaping beta diversity patterns at different spatial extents by relating phylogenetic beta diversity or phylogenetic turnover to geographic and climatic distances.

Location

Global.

Taxon

Liverworts.

Methods

We conducted correlation and regression analyses to relate phylogenetic beta diversity and its two components (turnover and nestedness) to six variables representing current climate conditions and two variables representing historical (Quaternary) climate change, and to geographic and climatic distances at different spatial extents (global, continental, and regional).

Results

We found that of the eight variables of current and historical climates considered, precipitation seasonality was the strongest determinant of phylogenetic beta diversity in liverworts. At the global extent, geographic and climatic distances explained similar amounts of the variation in phylogenetic turnover, whereas at the continental extent, climatic distance explained more variation than geographic distance in five of the seven continents, and at a regional extent (roughly a circle of 4000 km in diameter), geographic distances generally had a greater effect than climatic distance on phylogenetic turnover.

Main Conclusions

We conclude that both dispersal limitation and environmental filtering played an important role in shaping phylogenetic structure of liverwort floras, but their relative importance varies at different spatial scales and among geographic regions.
Dynamic degree centrality in stroke‐induced Broca's aphasia varies based on first language: A functional MRI study
Authors: Linazi Gu , Li Sijing , Qu Mei , Xi Yanling
Published: August 2024

Background and Purpose

This study sought to explore dynamic degree centrality (DC) variability in particular regions of the brain in patients with poststroke Broca aphasia (BA) using a resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs‐fMRI) approach, comparing differences between Uyghur and Chinese BA patients.

Methods

This study investigated two factors, language and BA status, and divided patients into four groups: Uyghur aphasia patients (UA), Uyghur normal control subjects (UN), Chinese aphasia patients (CA), and Chinese normal subjects (CN) who underwent rs‐fMRI analysis. Two‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to calculate the comprehensive differences in dynamic DC among these four groups. Correlations between DC and language behavior were assessed with partial correlation analyses.

Results

Two‐way ANOVA revealed comparable results for the results of pairwise comparisons of dynamic DC variability among the four groups in the right middle frontal gyrus/orbital part (ORBmid.R), right superior frontal gyrus/dorsolateral, and right precuneus (PCUN.R), with results as follows: UA < UN, CA > CN, UA < CA, and UN > CN (p < .05, with the exception of the p‐values for UA and UN in superior frontal gyrus/dorsolateral). In contrast, the opposite results were observed for the right calcarine fissure and surrounding cortex (CAL.R, p < .05).

Conclusion

The observed enhancement of dynamic DC variability in ORBmid.R and PCUN.R among Chinese BA patients and in CAL.R in Uyghur BA patients may be attributable to language network restructuring. Overall, these results suggest that BA patients who use different language families may exhibit differences in the network mechanisms that characterize observed impairments of language function.
Effects of two dentifrices on the surface properties and staining susceptibility of polymer‐based materials
Authors: Babaier Rua , Alhotan Abdulaziz , Haider Julfikar , Silikas Nick , Watts David C.
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study examined the effect of whitening and abrasive regular dentifrices on the surface characteristics and stain susceptibility of polymer‐based CAD–CAM blocks subjected to artificial toothbrushing abrasion (TB).

Materials and Methods

Two resin composite blocks [CeraSmart (CS) and Grandio Blocs (GB)], one polymer‐infiltrated ceramic [Vita Enamic (VE)], and one direct resin composite [GrandioSO (RC)] were used to produce 60 specimens. The baseline mass, gloss, roughness, Vickers hardness (Hv), and color were measured after 7 days of water storage. The specimens were then separated into three TB treatment groups (n = 5): water control (C), regular daily dentifrice (R), and whitening dentifrice (W). Measurements were repeated post‐TB (20,000 cycles). All specimens were immersed in coffee, and the CIE ΔE00 was measured after 1, 7, and 14 days. Two‐way, one‐way ANOVA, and Tukey's post hoc tests were performed to determine any significant differences between the materials and TB groups. To determine the stain resistance, repeated measures of ANOVA, one‐way ANOVA, and Tukey's post hoc tests were used (α = 0.05).

Results

The R and W mass changes were minimal (−3.77 to 3.16 g%). W reduced the gloss of all the materials by 12.6%–65%. All materials in W were slightly rougher (Ra, 0.107–0.144 μm) than those in R (Ra, 0.049–0.072 μm). The ΔE00 ranged from 0.6 to 1.6 in W and 0.4 to 1.4 in R. VE was the hardest material at baseline (Hv = 362), whereas brushing and staining lowered Hv in all TB groups (282.8–300.6). After brushing in W, VE, and RC were more susceptible to coffee stains than were CS and GB.

Conclusions

The whitening dentifrice roughened CAD–CAM specimens, reducing gloss, yet lightened some materials. Polymer‐infiltrated ceramic and direct resin composite specimens brushed with abrasive regular or whitening dentifrice resulted in more intense staining than the CAD–CAM resin composites.
Resolution of chronic inflammation and cancer
Authors: Tezcan Gulcin , Yakar Nil , Hasturk Hatice , Van Dyke Thomas E. , Kantarci Alpdogan
Published: August 2024

Chronic inflammation poses challenges to effective cancer treatment. Although anti‐inflammatory therapies have shown short‐term benefits, their long‐term implications may be unfavorable because they fail to initiate the necessary inflammatory responses. Recent research underscores the promise of specialized pro‐resolving mediators, which play a role in modulating the cancer microenvironment by promoting the resolution of initiated inflammatory processes and restoring tissue hemostasis. This review addresses current insights into how inflammation contributes to cancer pathogenesis and explores recent strategies to resolve inflammation associated with cancer.
Thermoacoustic Consolidation of Metal Particles for Energy-Efficient Metal Powders Recycling in Metal Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Riyad M. Faisal , Han Pu , Torabnia Shams , Hsu Keng
Published: August 2024

In laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) technology, approximately 20–30% of powder feedstock is stored after multiple cycles of sieving and reclaiming due to the deviation from standard particle geometry and size distribution. At present, there are no feasible ways to recycle these out-of-spec powders and they are being stored. This leads to storage-related issues and increases safety risks in manufacturing facilities. Here, we introduce an energy-efficient method to consolidate this hazardous metal waste into filament feedstock for repurposing without melting. In general, traditional production of wire feedstock is predominantly done using energy-intensive thermal melt-cast processes followed by mechanical drawing. The proposed technology compresses the multi-step process flow into a single-step technique of discrete-phase raw material consolidation and shaping into wire feedstocks using acoustic energy. This can bring about significant energy and cost savings in feedstock production and create a new route for reclaiming and repurposing of discrete-phase metal materials in production processes such as LPBF. In this work, we investigated the feasibility of utilizing low processing temperatures and power ultrasonics to consolidate out-of-spec metal powders. The effect of processing temperature and time on the porosity and microstructure of the consolidated samples has been studied. The results from this study will help us to develop a semi-continuous roll-forming technology to produce wire feedstocks for direct use in other additive manufacturing processes such as direct energy deposition or wire arc additive manufacturing.
A New Planar Overconstrained Mechanism Generated by Merging Two Symmetric Watt’s Six-Bar Linkages that Perform Gear-Like Motion
Authors: Chan Cody Leeheng
Published: August 2024

This article explores the synthesis of a planar overconstrained mechanism potentially for a folding hinge application. Inspired by a folding hinge patent from a phone company, the author analyzes the linkage and discovers a special mechanism generated by merging two symmetric Watt’s six-bar linkages. The synthesis method involves finding a Watt’s six-bar linkage with gear-like input–output motion. The differential evolution optimization algorithm is used to determine the dimensions of the linkage that satisfy the synchronized motion. Numerical results demonstrate the successful synthesis of the overconstrained mechanism with extremely low error, validating its performance. The CAD model and prototyping further confirm its functionality. This article makes three significant contributions: First, it synthesizes a Watt’s six-bar linkage that performs approximate gear-like motion for the first time. Second, it introduces a novel planar overconstrained mechanism and presents a methodology for its synthesis. Finally, it proposes a potential design for synthesizing and implementing overconstrained mechanisms in foldable phone hinges, meeting requirements for compactness and durability.
The Role of the Lead Hip in Collegiate Baseball Pitching: Implications for Ball Velocity and Upper-Extremity Joint Moments
Authors: Solomito Matthew J. , Garibay Erin J. , Cohen Andrew , Nissen Carl W.
Published: August 2024

Hip flexibility is an important biomechanical factor for a baseball pitcher. However, there have been limited investigations into the association between upper-extremity joint stresses and ball velocity and hip flexibility, as assessed via motion patterns during the pitch. The purpose of this study was to provide a detailed kinematic description of the lead hip during the pitch and determine the association between lead hip motion and both ball velocity and the elbow varus moment. This study was a secondary analysis of the kinematic and kinetic data previously collected on 99 collegiate-level baseball pitchers using standard optoelectronic motion capture. Significant associations were noted between lead hip internal rotation and both peak ball velocity and the elbow varus moment. The data indicated that for every 10° increase in internal lead hip rotation, ball velocity increased by 0.6 m/s (P < .001, r2 = .26), and the elbow varus moment increased by 5 N·m (P < .001, r2 = .33). The results of this study suggested that internal hip rotation may be an important means of identifying pitchers that may be at risk for future injury.
Participant Experiences With a Community-Based, “Older Adult” Walking Football Initiative in Australia: A Qualitative Exploration
Authors: Fitzsimons Lauren , Dogramaci Sera , Bennie Andrew , Rossi Tony , Taylor Nicole , McInerny Ashleigh , Young Carmen , White Rhiannon Lee
Published: August 2024

Despite the growing popularity of walking sports, little is known about who is attracted to them, and what skills, motivations, and experiences encourage ongoing participation. The aim of this study was to gain an in-depth understanding of the phenomenon of walking football in Australia. The authors first conducted semistructured interviews with 53 older adults (M = 62.37 years, 30.19% female) participating in walking football in Australia. Next, they conducted thematic analysis to develop themes that represented participant perspectives. Results indicated that walking football led to several physical benefits, but the social and mental benefits seemed to be more closely associated with continued participation. The slower pace of walking football created a valuable option to engage in physical activity among those with injuries or severe health issues, as well as older adults concerned about injuries. The slower pace also shifted the focus of walking football away from fitness and ability, and toward technique and skill development, and this focus, along with the mix in abilities, led to informal coaching and mentoring roles which were highly valued among older participants. Participant views about competition in walking football were diverse, with some expressing a mild concern. Understanding such diverse experiences of walking football helps to better understand how different aspects of the sport influence the perceived benefits and likelihood of continuing for different people. Using these findings to further develop walking sports in Australia could have large impacts on the health and well-being of older people.
Association of Accelerometer-Measured Physical Activity With College Student Success and Retention
Authors: Bloom Myra J. , Chen Gladys Y.X. , Gomes Victor R.C. , Jost Scarlet R. , Lang Andrew S.I.D. , Mankin Nancy V. , Merheb Jonathan A. , Mok Jingee , Nelson Philip P. , Skinstad Deborah A. , Valderrama-Araya Enrique F.
Published: August 2024

Background: This study examined the relationship between physical activity (PA) and academic performance and retention among college students using accelerometer data while controlling for sex and socioeconomic background. Methods: Data were collected from 4643 first-year college students at a private university in the south-central United States who began their studies in the Fall semesters between 2015 and 2022. Daily step counts were collected using accelerometers worn as part of the institutions PA requirements. The expected family contribution was calculated based on information provided on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. Grade point average (GPA) and retention data were collected directly from official university databases. Results: Female students generally had lower median age and steps count and a higher median GPA than males. The retention rates from fall to spring and fall to fall were 95.9% and 83.8%, respectively, with no significant difference in retention rates between males and females. GPA was significantly positively correlated with steps, expected family contribution, and age, and negatively correlated with being male and having an expected family contribution of zero. The fall to spring retention rate was significantly positively correlated with steps and GPA. Conclusions: The study’s findings suggest that increasing levels of PA, as measured by daily step counts, may be effective in promoting academic performance and retention, even when controlling for sex and socioeconomic background. The use of device-based measures of PA in this study contributes to the literature on this topic, and policymakers and educational institutions should consider interventions focused on academic performance and physical activity to help students persist.
Whose Helmet? Reconsidering American Football’s Iconic Equipment
Authors: Cohan Noah
Published: August 2024

In this project, I examine the manner in which fans and players of American football understand the plastic safety helmet. My findings are built on a series of qualitative interviews conducted with helmet aficionados and former players. While conventional wisdom would suggest that the protective purpose is the primary function of the helmet, I demonstrate that in practice it is secondary. The foremost service of the helmet is to convey meaning through team, regional, aesthetic, and branding signifiers, which shape how individuals affiliate themselves with the game, form their fan or player identity, and consume football and football equipment. Although they do so in different ways, both groups, players and aficionados, fetishize the object; exemplifying the way in which masculinity and materiality have become intertwined in the game of football, such that the helmet functions as an abstract avatar of heteronormative manliness.
The rise of electrically tunable metasurfaces
Authors: Jung Chunghwan , Lee Eunji , Rho Junsuk
Published: August 2024

Metasurfaces, which offer a diverse range of functionalities in a remarkably compact size, have captured the interest of both scientific and industrial sectors. However, their inherent static nature limits their adaptability for their further applications. Reconfigurable metasurfaces have emerged as a solution to this challenge, expanding the potential for diverse applications. Among the series of tunable devices, electrically controllable devices have garnered particular attention owing to their seamless integration with existing electronic equipment. This review presents recent progress reported with respect to electrically tunable devices, providing an overview of their technological development trajectory and current state of the art. In particular, we analyze the major tuning strategies and discuss the applications in spatial light modulators, tunable optical waveguides, and adaptable emissivity regulators. Furthermore, the challenges and opportunities associated with their implementation are explored, thereby highlighting their potential to bridge the gap between electronics and photonics to enable the development of groundbreaking optical systems.
PPARβ/δ-orchestrated metabolic reprogramming supports the formation and maintenance of memory CD8
+
T cells
Authors: Bevilacqua Alessio , Franco Fabien , Lu Ya-Ting , Rahiman Nabil , Kao Kung-Chi , Chuang Yu-Ming , Zhu Yanan , Held Werner , Xie Xin , Gunsalus Kristin C. , Xiao Zhengtao , Chen Shih-Yu , Ho Ping-Chih
Published: August 2024

The formation of memory T cells is a fundamental feature of adaptative immunity, allowing the establishment of long-term protection against pathogens. Although emerging evidence suggests that metabolic reprogramming is crucial for memory T cell differentiation and survival, the underlying mechanisms that drive metabolic rewiring in memory T cells remain unclear. Here, we found that up-regulation of the nuclear receptor peroxisome proliferator–activated receptor β/δ (PPARβ/δ) instructs the metabolic reprogramming that occurs during the establishment of central memory CD8
+
T cells. PPARβ/δ-regulated changes included suppression of aerobic glycolysis and enhancement of oxidative metabolism and fatty acid oxidation. Mechanistically, exposure to interleukin-15 and expression of T cell factor 1 facilitated activation of the PPARβ/δ pathway, counteracting apoptosis induced by antigen clearance and metabolic stress. Together, our findings indicate that PPARβ/δ is a master metabolic regulator orchestrating a metabolic switch that may be favorable for T cell longevity.
Complete genome sequence of
Bacillus stercoris
BST19, a soil isolate with potential anti-microbial properties using PacBio sequencing
Authors: Ku Hsin-Tzu , Su Marcia Shu-Wei , Yeh Yu-Chia , Coronel Shane Marie , Chen Chi-Chung , Shu Hung-Yu
Published: August 2024

We report the complete genome sequence of
Bacillus stercoris
BST19, an isolate from the allotment soil in Tainan, Taiwan. The genome was obtained using the PacBio Sequel II platform, yielding a circular chromosome of 4,167,147 bp with a 43.9% GC content.
Improved genome assembly of
Candida auris
strain B8441 and annotation of B11205
Authors: Cauldron Nicholas C. , Shea Terrance , Cuomo Christina A.
Published: August 2024

Candida auris
is a fungal pathogen of significant worldwide concern, typically resistant to one or more antifungal drugs. We report a completed genome for clade Ia isolate B8441 and gene annotations of clade Ic isolate B11205. These resources will support public health investigations and population genomic studies of this pathogen.
Genome sequence of bacteriophage GiJojo, isolated using
Streptomyces mirabilis
in Catonsville, Maryland
Authors: Badiola Marie Louise P. , Befano Kaela D. , Berger McKayla L. , Blanco Claudine R. , Ghunney Nhyira , Lee Jaehyun G. , Myat Lin P. , Nguyen James K. , Ober Ellison M. , Press-Porter Karla M. , She Brendan T. , Watkins Justin S. ,   2023 UMBC Phage Hunters, Caruso Steven M.
Published: August 2024

Bacteriophage GiJojo is a myovirus isolated from soil that infects
Streptomyces mirabilis
NRRL B-2400, with a genome length of 115,161 bp containing 180 genes and 29 tRNAs. Of those genes, 59 have been assigned functions. GiJojo is a member of the BS cluster of actinobacteriophages.
They are still children: a scoping review of conditions for positive engagement in elite youth sport
Authors: Wilson Stuart G. , KurtzFavero Mia , Smith Haley H. , Bergeron Michael F , Côté Jean
Published: August 2024

Objective

The objective of this study is to characterise the key factors that influence positive engagement and desirable developmental outcomes in sport among elite youth athletes by summarising the methods, groups and pertinent topical areas examined in the extant published research.

Design

Scoping review.

Data sources

We searched the databases SPORTDiscus, APA PsycINFO, Web of Science and Sports Medicine & Education Index for peer-reviewed, published in English articles that considered the factors influencing positive developmental outcomes for athletes under 18 years competing at a national and/or international level.

Results

The search returned 549 articles, of which 43 met the inclusion criteria. 16 studies used a qualitative approach, 14 collected quantitative data, 2 adopted mixed methods and 11 were reviews. Seven articles involved athletes competing in absolute skill contexts (ie, against the best athletes of any age) while the majority involved athletes competing in relative skill contexts (ie, against the best in a specific age or developmental group). The studies described the characteristics of the athletes, as well as their training, relationships with others, social and physical environments, and/or their overall developmental pathways.

Conclusion

Existing research on positive engagement in elite youth sport aligned with and mapped onto established models of positive development in youth sport more generally. Our findings further support that, while certain youth athletes may demonstrate extraordinary performance capabilities, they are still children who benefit from positive engagement prompted and reinforced by developmentally appropriate and supportive activities, relationships and environments.
High-intensity interval training improves cardiovascular and physical health in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: a multicentre randomised controlled trial
Authors: Bilberg Annelie , Mannerkorpi Kaisa , Borjesson Mats , Svedlund Sara , Sivertsson Jenny , Klingberg Eva , Bjersing Jan
Published: August 2024

Objectives

Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) have substantially elevated risk for cardiovascular diseases, and low cardiorespiratory fitness (VO
2
max) is a major mediator. The aim of this assessor-blinded, two-armed multicentre randomised controlled trial was to evaluate the effects of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and strength exercise on cardiovascular health, physical fitness and overall health in patients with RA.

Methods

In total, 87 patients (86% female; aged 20–60 years) were randomly assigned to an intervention group (IG) or a control group (CG). The IG performed HIIT and strength exercise for 12 weeks. The CG was instructed to be physically active on a moderately intensive level, ≥150 min/week. Primary outcome was change in VO
2
max. Secondary outcomes were changes in anthropometry measures, muscle strength, overall health (Visual Analogue Scale (VAS)-Global), Patient Global Impression of Change (PGIC), pain and disease activity (Disease Activity Score in 28 joints (DAS28)).

Results

There was a significant mean group difference of change on VO
2
max (3.71 mL/kg/min; 95% CI 2.16, 5.25) in favour of the IG. Significant mean group differences of change were also seen for O
2
-pulse (1.38; 95% CI 0.85 to 1.91), waist circumference (−2.6; 95% CI −5.09 to –0.18), 1-minute sit-to-stand (5.0; 95% CI 3.35 to 6.72), handgrip strength (28.5; 95% CI 3.80 to 52.8), overall health (−14.7; 95% CI –23.8 to –5.50) and PGIC (p<0.0001) in favour of the IG. No significant mean group differences of change were found for pain (−4.0; 95% CI −13.07 to 5.06), DAS28 (−0.25; 95% CI −0.60 to 0.10) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (−0.64; 95% CI −3.23 to 1.90).

Conclusion

Supervised HIIT and strength exercise improved cardiovascular health, physical fitness and overall health without a deterioration in pain and disease activity and should be considered in patients with well-controlled RA.

Trial registration number

NCT05768165
.
The long-term effects of water resource development on blood mercury levels and the trophic ecology of Namew (lake sturgeon, Acipenser fulvescens)
Authors: Lescord Gretchen L. , Simard Jennifer , Johnston Thomas A. , Seguin Jacob , Farrell Claire E. , O'Driscoll Nelson J. , O'Connor Constance M.
Published: August 2024

Water resource development can alter the movement and ecology of sturgeons. We studied total (THg) and methylmercury concentrations in whole blood sampled non-lethally from namew (Moose Cree L-dialect, lake sturgeon, Acipenser fulvescens), an endangered and culturally important subsistence fish. Namew were sampled from two tributaries within the Moose Cree Homeland: the Lower Mattagami River (an impacted system with four hydroelectric generating stations) and the North French River (a reference system that is free-flowing system with no development). Results indicated namew from the North French River had higher blood [THg] than those from the Mattagami River. Further modeling showed that trophic position was the primary driver of these differences, with North French namew having the highest nitrogen isotope ratios. Based on further isotope modeling, crayfish were major components of namew diet at all sites, while other prey items differed between sites. Specifically, namew with unobstructed access to the lower watershed had notably more enriched isotope values when compared to the freshwater benthic macroinvertebrates sampled, implying that other prey not captured herein may contribute to their diets and [THg]. Overall, we found differences in namew’s trophic ecology but no elevation in blood mercury levels at a site impacted by hydroelectric operations 60+ years post-impoundment.
Referring Image Segmentation with Multi-Modal Feature Interaction and Alignment Based on Convolutional Nonlinear Spiking Neural Membrane Systems
Authors: Sun Siyan , Wang Peng , Peng Hong , Liu Zhicai
Published: August 2024

Referring image segmentation aims to accurately align image pixels and text features for object segmentation based on natural language descriptions. This paper proposes NSNPRIS (convolutional nonlinear spiking neural P systems for referring image segmentation), a novel model based on convolutional nonlinear spiking neural P systems. NSNPRIS features NSNPFusion and Language Gate modules to enhance feature interaction during encoding, along with an NSNPDecoder for feature alignment and decoding. Experimental results on RefCOCO, RefCOCO[Formula: see text], and G-Ref datasets demonstrate that NSNPRIS performs better than mainstream methods. Our contributions include advances in the alignment of pixel and textual features and the improvement of segmentation accuracy.
Effects of double diffusion and Soret effect on MHD braking of liquid metal packed between enclosed rotating cylindrical annulus
Authors: Dash Subas Chandra
Published: August 2024

In this study, the combined effect of Joule heating and Soret number on magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) braking of incompressible stratified liquid metal packed between a confined rotating annulus has been investigated. Both axial sinusoidal temperature and as well as sinusoidal concentration have been imposed in this braking system. However, radial cooling is enforced on the rotating disc of the braking system. The Soret effect on concentration gradient has been observed when the stratified liquid is exposed to a temperature gradient along with an axial magnetic field at different buoyancy ratios.

A significant difference in convection heat and mass flow can be seen. The average shear wood decreased from 8.97 to 2.36 and the average Nusselt number decreased from 8.6 to 2.8 between the outer rotating disk and inner stationary disks at positive buoyancy ratios. This huge difference in heat and mass convection near the inner disk with respect to the outer brake disk confirms the MHD braking effect. Moreover, comparative studies of mass convection with respect to convective heat transfer have been observed based on the average magnitude of Sherwood and Nusselt numbers at both positive and negative buoyancy ratios.
Order parameter conditions from mutual information and symmetry conditions
Authors: Arraut Ivan , Yu Wing Chi
Published: August 2024

The mutual information method has demonstrated to be very useful for deriving the potential order parameter of a system. Although the method suggests some constraints which help to define this quantity, there is still some freedom in the definition. The method then results inefficient for cases where we have order parameters with a large number of constants in the expansion, which happens when we have many degenerate vacuums. Here, we introduce some additional constraints based on the existence of broken symmetries, which help us to reduce the arbitrariness in the definitions of the order parameter in the proposed mutual information method.
NIR emission in Nd3+-doped Li3Ba2La3(WO4)8 phosphor
Authors: Pusdekar Ashvini , Ugemuge Nilesh , Bajaj N. S. , Nafdey Renuka , Moharil Sanjiv
Published: August 2024

New results on NIR emission in Li3Ba2La3(WO[Formula: see text]:Nd[Formula: see text] prepared by the SSR method are reported. Prepared sample is examined by XRD for crystal structure confirmation. This compound crystallizes into the monoclinic crystal system with space group C2/c (No.15) having lattice parameters [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]Å, [Formula: see text], and [Formula: see text]. The photoluminescence recorded with 588[Formula: see text]nm (4I[Formula: see text]F[Formula: see text] excitation shows characteristic line emission in the NIR region, with the most intense emission at 1069[Formula: see text]nm (4F[Formula: see text]I[Formula: see text]). Concentration quenching was observed for Nd[Formula: see text] contents exceeding 2 mol%. The calculated critical distance is 40.16 Å.
Microscopic description of the pygmy and giant dipole resonances in even–even nuclei. Application to the isotopes 150,152,154,156,158,160Gd
Authors: Raduta A. A. , Raduta C. M. , Poenaru R.
Published: August 2024

This paper deals with a microscopic approach for the description of the pygmy dipole resonance (PDR) as well as of the giant dipole resonance (GDR). The formalism is based on a Hamiltonian which is summing a mean field term, the pairing for alike nucleons and the dipole–dipole interaction. Two features are specific for our description: (a) The use of a projected spherical single particle basis and (b) the involved dipole operator is a Schif-like operator including a corrective term which is cubic in the radial coordinate. The dipole strength distribution with energy is plotted for the PDR region, i.e., [0,10] MeV. The dominant transitions have an isovector character for three isotopes and isoscalar for another three. The PDR states carry only 0.4–1.8[Formula: see text] of the total EWSR. The dependence of the dipole strength on nuclear deformation is evidenced. For the whole interval of [0,20] MeV the dipole strength was first folded by Lorentzian of 1[Formula: see text]MeV width and then plotted as function of the QRPA energies. The peaks belonging to each of the two ranges are analyzed in detail and their nature, isovector/isoscalar, was pointed out. The r-cubic term and the nuclear deformation have opposite effects on the dipole strength. The famous Thomas–Reiche–Kuhn sum rule formula is generalized to the case of the Schiff dipole momentum. The new EWSR is very well satisfied. The photoabsorbtion cross-section is calculated and compared with experimental data in a figure showing its dependence on energy. The total cross-section, [Formula: see text], the moments of the integrated cross-sections, [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], the dipole polarizability and the thickness of the neutron crust are also calculated. The main features of PDR and GDR are realistically described.
STUDY ON CHAOS CONTROL OF FRACTIONAL-ORDER UNIFIED CHAOTIC SYSTEM
Authors: YIN CHUNTAO , ZHAO YUFEI , SHEN YONGJUN , LI XIANGHONG , FANG JINGZHAO
Published: August 2024

This paper focuses on synchronization control of the fractional-order unified chaotic system. First, the stability of equilibria is analyzed by the Routh–Hurwitz criteria. Then, three different controllers are designed to achieve chaos synchronization of the drive-response unified system. Further, the impact of the fractional order on the synchronization performance is illustrated. Numerical simulations are carried out to verify the feasibility of theoretical analysis.
Quasi-invariant states
Authors: Accardi Luigi , Dhahri Ameur
Published: August 2024

In this paper, we develop the theory of quasi-invariant (respectively, strongly quasi-invariant) states under the action of a group [Formula: see text] of normal ∗-automorphisms of a ∗-algebra (or von Neumann algebra) [Formula: see text]. We prove that these states are naturally associated to left-[Formula: see text]-[Formula: see text]-cocycles. If [Formula: see text] is compact, the structure of strongly [Formula: see text]-quasi-invariant states is determined. For any [Formula: see text]-strongly quasi-invariant state [Formula: see text], we construct a unitary representation associated to the triple [Formula: see text]. We prove, under some conditions, that any quantum Markov chain with commuting, invertible and Hermitian conditional density amplitudes on a countable tensor product of type I factors is strongly quasi-invariant with respect to the natural action of the group [Formula: see text] of local permutations and we give the explicit form of the associated cocycle. This provides a family of nontrivial examples of strongly quasi-invariant states for locally compact groups obtained as inductive limit of an increasing sequence of compact groups.
Learning Coordination Through New Actions
Authors: Castro Sofia B. S. D.
Published: August 2024

In this paper, we provide a novel approach to achieving a desired outcome in a coordination game: the original [Formula: see text] game is embedded in a [Formula: see text] game where one of the players may use a third action. For a large set of payoff values, only one of the Nash equilibria of the original [Formula: see text] game is stable under replicator dynamics. We show that this Nash equilibrium attracts all initial conditions in the interior of the state space for the modified [Formula: see text] game. Thus, the existence of a third action for one of the players, although not used, allows both players to coordinate on one Nash equilibrium.

This Nash equilibrium is the one preferred by, at least, the player with access to the new action. This approach deals with both coordination failure (players choose the payoff-dominant Nash equilibrium, if such a Nash equilibrium exists) and miscoordination (players do not use mixed strategies).
A Blockchain-Based Hybrid Hunger Game Search Archimedes Optimization Enabled Deep Learning for Multiclass Plant Disease Detection Using Leaf Images
Authors: Gajmal Yogesh Manohar , Jagtap Arvind M. , Kale Kiran Dhanaji , Gawade Jawahar Sambhaji , More Pranav
Published: August 2024

Plants are susceptible to a wide range of diseases when they are growing. One of the crucial difficulties in agriculture is the earlier finding of plant diseases. If the diseases are not detected at the beginning, it may have an undesirable effect on the entire production. To avoid these issues, a blockchain-based hybrid optimized deep learning (DL) approach is devised in this work. The plant leaf images are stored in the blockchain network and the noise level of the images is minimized by the Kalman filter. In image segmentation, the Deep Joint segmentation technique is employed to segment the disease-affected portion of the image. The position and color augmentation are carried out to enhance the size and clarity of the image. Moreover, the statistical and speeded-up robust features (SURF) are extracted in the feature extraction stage. In the first level classification process, the developed hunger game search Archimedes optimization (HGSAO) enabled SpinalNet is employed for classifying the plant type and the second level classification is carried out for multiclass disease identification using the proposed HGSAO optimized SpinalNet. Moreover, the proposed HGSAO with SpinalNet outperformed the accuracy of 0.972, True positive rate (TPR) of 0.963, true negative rate (TNR) of 0.951, false negative rate (FNR) of 0.936 and false positive rate (FPR) of 0. 942.
Supertropical Monoids III: Factorization and splitting covers
Authors: Izhakian Zur , Knebusch Manfred
Published: August 2024

The category [Formula: see text] of supertropical monoids, whose morphisms are transmissions, has the full-reflective subcategory [Formula: see text] of commutative semirings. In this setup, quotients are determined directly by equivalence relations, as ideals are not applicable for monoids, leading to a new approach to factorization theory. To this end, tangible factorization into irreducibles is obtained through fiber contractions and their hierarchy. Fiber contractions also provide different quotient structures, associated with covers and types of splitting covers.
On generalized graded rings
Authors: Kim Dong Kyu , Lim Jung Wook
Published: August 2024

In this paper, we define the concept of generalized graded rings and investigate to study some properties. The class of generalized graded rings contains those of graded rings and power series rings. To study generalized graded rings, we define three kinds of homogeneous type ideals and study some properties.
A Kriging-Based Uncertainty Quantification for Fracture Assessment
Authors: Nguyen Tran C. H. , Vu-Bac N. , Budarapu P. R.
Published: August 2024

We present here an uncertainty quantification methodology assisting fracture/damage detection that accounts for different sources of uncertainty involving in real-time damage identification. The relationship between structural responses (i.e., the natural frequencies) and the uncertain crack locations and lengths in mechanical systems is quantitatively assessed using variance-based sensitivity analysis. Sparse variational Gaussian process is employed to replace the computationally expensive finite element model. Dynamic behaviors of two mechanical systems which are (1) aluminum frame with adjustable masses and (2) cracked car suspension arm are analyzed through experimental and numerical data. The results demonstrate the effectiveness and robustness of combining these methods for structural assessments, providing precise and reliable insights applicable to complex mechanical models. We believe that this study enhances the understanding of vibration-induced fracture/damage and highlights the potential of this framework for advancing structural reliability analysis and dynamic system optimization.
On q-Hermite–Hadamard–Mercer and midpoint-Mercer inequalities for general convex functions with their computational analysis
Authors: Toseef Muhammad , Zhang Zhiyue , Aamir Ali Muhammad
Published: August 2024

This paper establishes some new inequalities of Hermite–Hadamard–Mercer type for [Formula: see text]-convex functions in the framework of [Formula: see text]-calculus and classical calculus. Some new [Formula: see text]-midpoint-Mercer type inequalities for the [Formula: see text]-differentiable [Formula: see text]-convex functions are also proved. Moreover, the computational analysis of newly established inequalities for convex and [Formula: see text]-convex functions are given to prove that the bounds of this paper are better than those of the existing ones. It is also shown with mathematical examples that the newly established inequalities are valid for [Formula: see text]-convex functions in [Formula: see text]-calculus.
Tunable Electroelastic Waves in Soft Dielectric Elastomer Phononic Crystals: Exploring the Effect of Polymer Chain Network Architecture
Authors: Sharma Atul Kumar
Published: August 2024

The polymer chain network within the dielectric elastomers (DEs) contains numerous entanglements, crosslinks and finite extensibility, all of which play a substantial role in the nonlinear finite deformation behavior of the DE-based phononic crystals. In this study, a theoretical model is proposed to investigate the intricate interplay between internal polymer chain entanglements, crosslinks and finite extensibility, and their influence on the tunable band gap properties of soft dielectric elastomer phononic crystals. To capture the inherent characteristics of the polymer chain network, a physics-based nonaffine material model is employed. By incorporating nonlinear electro-elasticity theory and the linearized incremental theory, the equations governing the voltage-induced finite deformation and superimposed incremental anti-plane shear waves are formulated. Employing the finite element method and Bloch’s theorem, the band structure of an infinite periodic DE phononic crystal is extracted. The numerical results reveal that under higher electric fields, the intrinsic properties of the polymer network significantly impact the band gap characteristics of DE phononic crystals. The outcomes of the numerical simulations and the insights derived from this study offer valuable guidance for the design and manufacturing of soft electro-statically tunable phononic structures.
A predictor–corrector approach to investigate and predict the dynamic of cytokine levels and human immune cell activation to Staphylococcus Aureus
Authors: Ngondiep Eric , Njomou Ariane Ndantouo , Mondinde George Ikomey
Published: August 2024

This paper develops a second-order explicit predictor–corrector numerical approach for solving a mathematical model on the dynamics of cytokine expressions and human immune cell activation in response to the bacterium staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus). The proposed algorithm is at least zero-stable and second-order accurate. Mathematical modeling works that analyze the human body in response to some antigens have predicted concentrations of a broad range of cells and cytokines. This study deals with a coupled cellular-cytokine model which predicts cytokine expressions in response to gram-positive bacteria S. aureus. Tumor necrosis factor alpha, interleukin 6, interleukin 8 and interleukin 10 are included to assess the relationship between cytokine release from macrophages and the concentration of the S. aureus antigen. Ordinary differential equations are used to model cytokine levels while the cellular responses are modeled by partial differential equations. Interactions between both components provide a more robust and complete systems of immune activation. In the numerical simulations, a low concentration of S. aureus is used to measure cellular activation and cytokine expressions. Numerical experiments indicate how the human immune system responds to infections from different pathogens. Furthermore, numerical examples suggest that the new technique is faster and more efficient than a large class of statistical and numerical schemes discussed in the literature for systems of nonlinear equations and can serve as a robust tool for the integration of general systems of initial-boundary value problems.