bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhancing Malware Detection With Deep Learning Convolutional Neural Networks: Investigating the Impact of Image Size Variations
Authors: Hawana Ahmed , Hassan Emad S. , El‐Shafai Walid , El‐Dolil Sami A.
Published: February 2025

To address the growing challenges posed by cyber threats, anti‐malware organizations have increasingly turned to machine learning (ML), a well‐established field in computer science known for its proficiency in tasks like image recognition and decision‐making. Leveraging ML enables these organizations to enhance their ability to detect and classify malware. However, identifying an optimal method for malware detection remains a critical challenge in cybersecurity. This paper proposes a simplified detection model using deep learning (DL)‐based convolutional neural networks (CNNs) to achieve effective malware classification while maintaining simplicity. The proposed model focuses on employing a minimalistic architecture without compromising detection accuracy, even when working with an imbalanced dataset. The primary objective is to evaluate the impact of varying malware image sizes (32 × 32, 64 × 64, 128 × 128, and 256 × 256) on detection performance. The malware images dataset was divided into 80% for training and 20% for testing. The data were preprocessed to generate image datasets of the specified sizes, which were then fed into a two‐layer CNN model. The model's performance was assessed using key metrics such as accuracy, precision, recall, and F1‐score. Experimental results demonstrate that the size of malware images inversely affects detection performance, with smaller images yielding better results. Specifically, the 32 × 32‐pixel size emerged as the most efficient for malware detection using the proposed model, achieving 99.601% accuracy, 98.942% precision, 98.910% recall, and 98.915% F1‐score. Additionally, the 32 × 32 images required the least training time, highlighting the model's computational efficiency.
Increased Crack Resistance to Enhance Toughness in 20Si2MnCrNi Steel via Isothermal Bainite Formation
Authors: Cai Xinyu , Hou Yuan , Fan Xiufeng , Wu Zhongwang , Gao Zhanyong
Published: February 2025

This work investigates the influence of microstructure of isothermal bainite and as‐tempered martensite in 20Si2MnCrNi steel on the toughness and crack propagation behavior. The results show that the impact absorption energy of the steel with isothermal bainite microstructure (211 J) is nearly double that of as‐tempered martensite (116.3 J), while the crack propagation rate is reduced by ≈15%. The superior toughness of isothermal bainite is largely attributed to the presence of high‐angle grain boundaries, which account for 82.3% of the total, compared to 62.6% in tempered martensite. These boundaries effectively deflect and branch cracks, thereby enhancing crack resistance and material durability.
Sustainable concrete solutions: Evaluating the structural performance of coconut shells as coarse aggregate substitute
Authors: Boakye Kingsley Asare , Tarantsev Dmitrii , Ahmed Mohammed , Bainge Gilbert
Published: February 2025

The increasing demand for concrete in urban development raises significant environmental concerns associated with the extraction of natural aggregates. This study addresses the need for sustainable alternatives by evaluating coconut shells as a substitute for coarse aggregates in concrete. The primary objectives were to assess the impact of varying percentages of coconut shells (5%, 10%, and 15%) on the workability and strength of concrete, as well as to investigate the effects of superplasticizers on these properties. A systematic approach was employed to prepare concrete mix proportions, incorporating coconut shells and superplasticizers. Concrete specimens were cast and subjected to strength tests after curing periods of 7, 14, and 28 days, in accordance with BS EN 12390‐3 standards. The principal results indicated that while the inclusion of coconut shells improved the sustainability of the concrete, it also led to a decrease in workability, particularly as the percentage of coconut shells increased. Additionally, the use of superplasticizers, although intended to enhance flow properties, resulted in diminished workability at higher coconut shell content. Compressive strength tests showed that up to 15% replacement of coarse aggregates with coconut shells did not significantly compromise strength. In conclusion, coconut shells can serve as a viable alternative to traditional aggregates, promoting sustainability in construction. However, careful consideration of superplasticizer use is essential to maintain optimal workability and strength in concrete mixes.
Moral Communities in a Race Status Negotiation: A Dorm Room Urination Case
Authors: Tam Catherine L. , Rafaely Daniella
Published: February 2025

In 2022, at a South African university, a white student was filmed urinating on the belongings of a black student. Although race was invoked as an a priori account for this incident, we demonstrate how race is made visible and relevant by participants in the interaction through an attempted, yet resisted, status degradation ceremony. Utilizing an ethnomethodological conversation‐analytic approach, we explicate how contrasting moral communities characterized by a/symmetrical deontic, epistemic, and affective rights are un/done in situ. We further demonstrate how shared orientations to past and present sociopolitical structures were necessary for intelligible interaction across private and public domains.
The Common Alzheimer's Disease Research Ontology (CADRO) for biomarker categorization
Authors: Leisgang Osse Amanda M. , Kinney Jefferson W. , Cummings Jeffrey L.
Published: February 2025

Biomarkers are vital to Alzheimer's disease (AD) drug development and clinical trials, and will have an increasing role in clinical care. In this narrative review, we demonstrate the use of the National Institutes on Aging/Alzheimer's Association (NIA/AA) Common Alzheimer's Disease Research Ontology (CADRO) system for the categorization of biomarkers based on the primary mechanism on which they report. We show that biomarkers are available (in various levels of validation) for all CADRO processes. Application of the CADRO system demonstrates gaps in the field where novel biomarkers are needed for specific aspects of the disease, and assays to detect and measure biological changes, in individuals with symptomatic or preclinical AD. We demonstrate the CADRO system as a means of categorizing established and candidate AD biomarkers, showing the feasibility and practicality of the system. CADRO can assist with biomarker selection for AD clinical trials and drug development, and may eventually be applied to implementing biomarkers in patient care.

Highlights

The Common Alzheimer's Disease Research Ontology (CADRO) system can be used to categorize biomarkers for drug development.

We demonstrate the use of CADRO with Alzheimer's disease (AD) biomarkers.

We identified AD biomarkers in each of the CADRO categories.

CADRO can be incorporated into current AD drug development and clinical trial systems.
Innate Immunity Toll‐Like Triad TLR6‐1‐10 and Its Diversity in Distinct Horse Breeds
Authors: Stejskalova Karla , Vychodilova Leona , Janova Eva , Oppelt Jan , Horin Petr
Published: February 2025

Toll‐like receptors (TLRs) play important roles in innate immunity and developmental processes. Due to their nature as molecular pattern recognition receptors, their genetic diversity may reflect the effects of various pathogen pressures. Here, the extent of variability in the TLR1‐6‐10 gene cluster in three geographically and historically distinct breeds of horses was analysed. A genetically diverse group of representatives of 14 other horse breeds provided additional information on the variability of this gene cluster in the domestic horse. Altogether, 25 SNPs were identified in the TLR6‐1‐10 gene cluster across the 4 equine breed groups studied, of which 7 were synonymous and 18 non‐synonymous. Twenty‐eight inferred SNPs and 22 in silico translated amino acid haplotypes were identified. A predominant major haplotype present in all breed groups along with several group‐specific haplotypes were identified. Strong linkage disequilibrium was detected for several SNPs, as well as effects of pervasive, site‐specific selection. The existence of a major haplotype suggests it may confer a selective advantage across breeds. Less frequent breed‐specific haplotypes may represent variability required or beneficial for responses to local pathogen pressures. Purifying site‐specific selection was detected in the TIR domain and its vicinity in TLR6, whereas AA sites under diversifying selection were located in LRR domains and/or their surroundings in TLR1. Population structure models based on immune‐related TLR6‐1‐10 markers did not distinguish between breed groups, whereas in models based on neutral microsatellite markers, breed groups clustered separately. This supports the assumption that the diversity of the TLR6‐1‐10 cluster is of adaptive value. The TLR6‐1‐10 alleles and haplotypes identified represent potential candidate markers for disease association studies.
Seasonal variations and correlation analysis of water quality parameters in the Chambal River, Rajasthan, India
Authors: Singh Krishna Pal , Saxena Abhishek
Published: February 2025

The study investigated the water quality of the Chambal River from 2010 to 2022 throughout the year. The measured parameters like pH, EC (Electrical Conductivity), TDS (Total Dissolved Solids), and Total Hardness (TH) fluctuate between 7.70 and 8.35 (with an average of 8), 289 and 484 μS/cm (with an average of 347 μS/cm), 185 and 315 mg/l (with an average of 224 mg/l), and 68 and 120 mg/l (with an average of 93 mg/l), respectively, on the yearly basis. While the turbidity, nitrate levels, ammonia nitrogen, fluoride, and boron dissolved) fluctuate between 0.79 and 8 NTU (with an average of 2 NTU), 0.38 and 2 mg/l (with an average of 0.92 mg/l), 0.06 and 0.61 mg/l (with an average of 0.22 mg/l), 0.24 and 0.94 mg/l (with an average of 0.67 mg/l), and 0.04 and 0.33 mg/l (with an average of 0.16 mg/l), respectively, on the yearly basis. The water Quality Index (WQI) ranges between 10 to 149 with an average of 73 on a yearly basis. However, WQI ranges between 27 to 95 (with an average of 56) in summer, 6 to 294 (with an average of 116) in rainy, 4 to 123 (with an average of 156) in autumn, and 1 to 82 (with an average of 52) in winter. These results indicate a poor overall Water Quality Index (WQI), rendering the Chambal River's water unsuitable for drinking purposes. Furthermore, the principal component analysis and dendrogram analysis were used in this study. The findings highlight the urgent need for stricter pollution control measures to safeguard the river's health.

Practitioner Points

The present study is based on Seasonal Variations and Correlation Analysis of Water Quality Parameters via multiparametric approaches from 2010 to 2022 throughout the year in the Chambal River, Rajasthan, India.

Two types of statistics (Principal Component Analysis and Dendrogram analysis) have been applied here to know the variation and distribution of WQI.

pH fluctuated within the IS standard, with a slight summer alkalinity increase. EC remained stable, higher in summer due to evaporation. Turbidity peaked in the monsoon and reduced in dry periods.

Poor overall Water Quality Index (WQI) was found in the sampling site hence the reader of the discussed journal may take an interest in it. Urgent need to control the river's health from the different pollutants.

Pearson correlation analysis reveals strong positive correlations between WQI, turbidity, pH, TDS, TH, and EC while negative correlations are observed between these clusters and boron concentration.
Fearfulness of geese and swans on cropland in winter: a multi‐species flight initiation distance approach
Authors: Elmberg Johan , Svensson Elin , Kvarnbäck Elias , Olsson Camilla , Månsson Johan
Published: February 2025

Geese and swans are focal species in conservation and in management aimed at reducing crop damage. In the former disturbance should be minimized, and in the latter it is important to know how different species react to scaring activities. Previous research about trade‐off between predation risk and foraging in birds often uses ‘flight initiation distance' (FID) as a proxy to compare fearfulness under different circumstances and among species. We studied variation in FID in geese and swans by species, flock size and composition, time of day, and body size (408 scaring trials on agricultural land in the winters 2018–2021). In single‐species flocks mean FID decreased in the order: bean goose (171 m) > greylag goose (104 m) > whooper swan (102 m) > Canada goose (92 m) > barnacle goose (77 m). In line with predictions based on body mass, the lightest species (barnacle goose) was the least fearful, but contrary to prediction neither of the two heaviest species (whooper swan, Canada goose) was the most fearful. FID was negatively correlated with flock size in bean goose. Flock size and FID did not correlate in greylag, Canada, and barnacle geese. FID did not differ between morning and afternoon in the four species with a sample of > 20 single‐species trials. When in multi‐species flocks, FID differed less among species, converging in the 108–138 m range. Accordingly, bean goose FID decreased significantly whereas it increased significantly in barnacle and greylag geese. Barnacle goose (protected from hunting by the EU Birds Directive) was less fearful than species with an open hunting season in the EU, implying that exposure to hunting affects species‐specific FID. We show that the level of fearfulness varied among swan and goose species, making it necessary to adopt diverse strategies in conservation as well as crop protection.
Wege für bessere Impfraten
Authors: Floege Jürgen , Schwarz Toralf , Wanner Christoph , Heemann Uwe , Gallwitz Baptist , Witzke Oliver
Published: February 2025

Impfungen stellen eine wichtige Präventionsmaßnahme gegen Viruserkrankungen dar und haben seit ihrer Einführung schon viele Menschenleben gerettet. Heutzutage kann jeder Arzt bzw. jede Ärztin eine Impfung verabreichen. Bei Patienten mit chronischen Erkrankungen sollte eine Indikationsimpfung erfolgen. Generell bietet es sich an, wenn möglich, eine Koadministration vorzunehmen, die in der Regel bei vielen Impfstoffen, insbesondere Totimpfstoffen, problemlos möglich ist. Ein entsprechendes Qualitätsmanagement vermag Komplikationen zu vermeiden. Wichtig ist es auch, die Patienten über Impfungen zu informieren und sie ggf. nach der ersten Impfung an ihren Zweittermin zu erinnern, um die maximale Wirksamkeit zu gewährleisten.
The statistical testing of regularized mathematical models in geodetic data processing
Authors: Fischer Artur , Nowel Krzysztof , Cellmer Slawomir
Published: February 2025

The geodetic community commonly challenges the composite hypotheses in the statistical testing of mathematical models. Since the composite hypotheses are not specified as opposed to their simple counterparts, they require a prior estimation of the model parameters. However, if the mathematical models are ill-conditioned, the regularized estimation is often applied for the parameters of interest. Due to the biased property, the regularized estimation does not rigorously originate in the principle of maximum likelihood (ML) estimation, which was the base for developing the theory of the generalized likelihood ratio (GLR) test. Since the regularized estimator of the parameters of interest is consequently inconsistent with the ML one, one cannot construct the GLR test, which is the uniformly most powerful invariant (UMPI) test. So far, only the bias correction approach has been suggested to solve this problem. In this contribution, an implicit representation of the regularized mathematical model is proposed. It eliminates the complete impact of regularized estimation on a mathematical model and delivers the misclosures analytically free from the influence of regularization. Thus, one can construct the GLR test, which belongs to the UMPI family, and then formulate the test statistic in terms of misclosures.
Sharp bounds on the Nusselt number in Rayleigh-Bénard convection and a bilinear estimate by Coifman-Meyer
Authors: Chanillo Sagun , Malchiodi Andrea
Published: February 2025

We prove a conjecture in fluid dynamics concerning optimal bounds for heat transportation in the infinite Prandtl number limit and for large Rayleigh number

$\mathrm{Ra}$

Ra

, predicted in (Howard in Proceedings of the 11th International Congress of Applied Mathematics on Applied Mechanics, Munich, 1964, p. 1109, Springer, 1966) and (Malkus in Proc. R. Soc. Lond. Ser. A 225:196–212, 1954). Due to a maximum principle property for the temperature exploited by Constantin-Doering and Otto-Seis, this amounts to showing a-priori bounds for horizontally-periodic solutions of a fourth-order equation in a strip of large width. While there have been recent nearly-optimal results up to logarithmic divergences in

$\mathrm{Ra}$

Ra

, we prove here sharp bounds employing Fourier analysis, integral representations, and a bilinear estimate due to Coifman and Meyer which uses the Carleson measure characterization of BMO functions by Fefferman.
Entropy generation in Casson-Williamson-Powell-Eyring hybrid ferrofluid flow in a microchannel: Adomian decomposition and deep neural networks approaches
Authors: Ogunseye Hammed A. , Tijani Yusuf O. , Oloniiju Shina D. , Otegbeye Olumuyiwa , Agbaje Titilayo M.
Published: February 2025

Entropy generation is a fundamental concept in thermodynamics that measures the irreversibility of a process. Understanding the principles of entropy generation is crucial for optimizing thermal management and improving the efficiency of any thermal system. Its applications span a wide range, including heat exchangers, turbomachinery, chemical reactors, microfluidic devices, and many others. This study investigates the fluid flow and energy loss in the flow of three non-Newtonian fluids in a microchannel. The dynamical model incorporates the rheological behaviour of the three distinct fluids without the need for separate, independent mathematical models. These fluids Casson, Williamson, and Powell-Eyring are hybridized with a nanoparticle ferrofluid. The homogenization process is achieved using the Tiwari-Das model. Due to the magnetic body forces in the conservation of energy equation, the generation of entropy is taken into account from three sources: heat loss due to heat transfer, heat loss due to magnetic flow, and heat loss due to viscous dissipation. The solutions of the model equations are approximated using two solution techniques: the Adomian decomposition and deep neural network methods, and the results are compared with Maplesoft’s fourth-order Runge–Kutta (RK4). The solutions of these three methodologies serve as benchmarks for each other. The solutions obtained from each method agree, thus validating the accuracy of the results. The study indicates that the Williamson fluid is the most sensitive to flow changes with varying Reynolds numbers. Although increasing the Reynolds number reduces flow rates near the wall to zero for all fluids, there is a transition near the upper region where higher Reynolds numbers enhance the flow rates of all fluids. Increasing the Brinkman number raises the entropy generation rate for all fluids while inversely affecting the Bejan number across all fluids. Adding more nanoparticles will impede fluid flow and enhance fluid heat transfer.

Graphical abstract

Flow chart of the study structure
Cluster sets and traditional sets elicit similar muscular hypertrophy: a volume and effort-matched study in resistance-trained individuals
Authors: Vargas-Molina Salvador , García-Sillero Manuel , Maroto-Izquierdo Sergio , Baz-Valle Eneko , Bautista-Mayorga Borja , Murri Mora , Schoenfeld Brad J. , Benítez-Porres Javier
Published: February 2025

Background and Objective

Previous studies examining the effects of cluster sets (CS) compared to traditional sets (TS) protocols on muscle hypertrophy have primarily equated to volume load. This inevitably has resulted in a lower number of repetitions performed in TS compared to CS, thereby leading to a suboptimal hypertrophic stimulus. The present study aimed to compare the impact of CS and TS protocols, both performed with the same number of sets and repetitions, but with loads adjusted to the same range of repetitions in reserve (RIR) on muscle hypertrophy.

Methods

Ten resistance-trained volunteers (7 men and 3 women, 21.0 ± 1.5 years, 64.3 ± 6.9 kg, and 169.3 ± 6.2 cm) participated in this study. Participants performed two training protocols over an 8-week period, with two weekly sessions consisting of 5 sets of 12 repetitions of the leg press and leg extension exercises. The study employed a within-participant, unilateral design where one limb performed a TS protocol and the contralateral limb performed 3 clusters of 4 repetitions with a 20-s intra-set rest period of the same exercises (CS). Muscle thickness was assessed via ultrasound and thigh lean tissue mass was assessed by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry pre- and post-study.

Results

Results showed similar increases in muscle thickness (p < 0.001, ES = 0.56, and p = 0.012, ES = 0.42, respectively) and lean tissue mass (p = 0.002, ES = 0.11, and p < 0.001, ES = 0.13, respectively) in both CS and TS conditions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when sets, repetitions, and load adjustments were equalized based on RIR, a CS protocol elicits similar increases in muscle thickness and lean mass compared to a TS protocol.
An Alternative Proof for an Aperiodic Monotile
Authors: Akiyama Shigeki , Araki Yoshiaki
Published: February 2025

We give a simple alternative proof that the monotile introduced by [14] is aperiodic.
Protein misfolding: understanding biology to classify and treat synucleinopathies
Authors: Outeiro Tiago Fleming , Höglinger Günter , Lang Anthony E. , Vieira Tuane C. R. G.
Published: February 2025

Protein misfolding and aggregation is a major pathological hallmark in a variety of human conditions, including cancer, diabetes, and neurodegeneration. However, we still do not fully understand the role of protein accumulation in disease. Interestingly, recent breakthroughs in artificial intelligence (AI) are having a tremendous impact on our ability to predict three-dimensional protein structures and understand the molecular rules governing protein folding/misfolding. This progress will enable us to understand how intrinsic and extrinsic factors trigger protein misfolding, thereby changing protein function. These changes, in some cases, are related to normal biological responses and, in other cases, associated with pathological alterations, such as those found in many neurodegenerative disorders. Here, we provide a brief historical perspective of how findings in the field of prion diseases and prion biology have enabled tremendous advances that are now forming the basis for our understanding of disease processes and discuss how this knowledge is now emerging as central for our ability to classify, diagnose, and treat devastating neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases.
Investigation into the design of a novel conical plain bearing concept with enhanced serviceability
Authors: Euler Jan , Jacobs Georg , Zweiffel Urs , Jakobs Timm , Decker Thomas , Röder Julian
Published: February 2025

Wind power constitutes a significant share in the German energy mix, and future increase is forecast. About 20% of the levelized cost of electricity for wind power stem from maintenance and repair efforts. Wind turbine main bearings are a component especially prone to failure with a failure probability of up to 30% over the wind turbine design lifetime. The current commercially available generation of wind turbines exclusively use rolling element bearings as main bearings. Their exchange or repair is very elaborate as they require a dismantling of the rotor.

At present there are efforts within industry and science to explore plain bearings as a possible alternative to rolling element bearings as wind turbine main bearings. Segmented plain bearings promise reduced repair costs as their segments can be exchanged individually in case of damage or failure without dismantling of the rotor. Three such plain bearing concepts (HydroLa, FlexPad and Z‑Pad) were developed. FlexPad features stationary sliding segments with a flexible support structure. The FlexPad however, demonstrated challenges for upscaling towards multi-megawatt turbines regarding e.g. its maintenance. To address the maintenance challenge, the Z‑Pad was developed. Z‑Pad features its sliding segments on the rotating shaft. Thus, allowing for easier access of the sliding segments. As with the FlexPad bearing no standardised design process exists. However, a process can be developed analogues to the FlexPad design approach. The proposed design process follows the following steps parameter space definition, sampling, elasto-hydrodynamic simulations, surrogate model creation and lastly mathematical optimisation. This study aims to evaluate the underlying parameter set for the future design process. Results from a systematic sensitivity analysis are explored, highlighting the design influence of individual parameters. The study shows, that during design the global design parameters can no longer be considered concurrently with the parameters governing the bearings flexibility. Moreover, unnecessary design features are identified and removed.
Optimization of corn starch/glycerol, acetic acid, and cellulose fibers ratio on biodegradable plastic synthesis by Box–Behnken design (BBD)
Authors: Abdel Hamid Eman M. , Mohamed Ahmed E. , Mohamed Ahmed A. , Galal Abdallah A. , Mekhemr Abdelrahman A. , Saleh Eslam S. , Hassan Mohamed I. , Ahmed Mohamed H. , Elgendy Shehab K.
Published: February 2025

Biodegradable plastic is the preferred alternative to traditional plastic products due to its high degradability, decreased dependence on fossil sources, and decreased global pollution according to the accumulation of traditional plastic. In the current study, the optimization of biodegradable plastic synthesis was studied using biomass reinforcement materials. The reinforcement material is cellulose extracted from sawdust to prepare biodegradable plastic using the casting method. Response surface methodology using Box–Behnken Design is used to optimize the main parameters affecting the tensile strength and elongation at the break of the biodegradable plastic. These parameters are cellulose fiber addition, acetic acid addition, and the mass ratio of glycerol to starch. The maximum tensile strength and elongation were obtained at 4.45 MPa and 5.24%, respectively, using 5% cellulose fiber addition and 11.24% acetic acid addition with a 0.266 w/w glycerol to starch mass ratio. Various analyses were performed on the produced biodegradable plastic, including FTIR, SEM, and thermal stability. The biodegradability of the produced biodegradable plastic after immersing the soil for 10 days was about 90% higher than the traditional plastics. The produced biodegradable plastic has a moisture content of 4.41%, water absorption of 81.5%, water solubility of 24.6%, and alcohol solubility of 0%. According to these properties, the produced biodegradable plastic can be used in different industries as a good alternative to traditional plastics.

Graphical Abstract
Association between hemoglobin level and mortality in patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis: a nationwide dialysis registry in Japan
Authors: Kosugi Takaaki , Hasegawa Takeshi , Imaizumi Takahiro , Nishiwaki Hiroki , Honda Hirokazu , Ito Yasuhiko , Tsuruya Kazuhiko , Abe Masanori , Hanafusa Norio , Kuragano Takahiro
Published: February 2025

Background

The optimal hemoglobin (Hb) range in patients undergoing hemodialysis remains controversial. We aimed to investigate the association between Hb levels and mortality in patients undergoing hemodialysis and explore the potential factors modifying this association.

Methods

This observational study utilized a nationwide database from the Japanese Renal Data Registry spanning from 2019 to 2021. This study included 265,779 patients undergoing hemodialysis thrice a week. The association between Hb levels and all-cause and cause-specific mortality was investigated using Cox regression analysis. The nonlinear relationship between Hb levels and outcomes was investigated using restricted cubic spline analysis.

Results

During a median follow-up period of 24 months, 45,734 patients died. Compared to the reference Hb category of 10–10.9 g/dL, the risk of all-cause mortality was higher in the Hb categories of < 9.0, 9.0–9.9, and ≥ 13 g/dL with adjusted hazard ratios (95% confidence intervals) of 1.24 (1.20–1.29), 1.09 (1.06–1.12), and 1.19 (1.14–1.25), respectively. Restricted cubic spline analysis also showed a U-shaped relationship between Hb level and mortality. The subgroup analysis indicated that the Hb category of 12.0–12.9 g/dL was associated with increased mortality risk in patients with a dialysis vintage of ≥ 10 years and those with a history of cerebral infarction.

Conclusion

Hb levels of < 10.0 and ≥ 13.0 g/dL were significantly associated with an increased mortality risk compared to an Hb level of 10.0–10.9 g/dL in patients undergoing hemodialysis.
Age, morbidity, and time to death: End-of-life expenditures on health care for the young-old population
Authors: Torrini Irene , Lucifora Claudio , Russo Antonio Giampiero
Published: February 2025

In this paper, we analyze resource allocation and explore the life-cycle evolution of health care expenditures (HCE) by investigating the effect of age, morbidity and time to death (TTD) on HCE for the young-old population. Using a rich 10-year population-level panel, we estimate a fixed-effects model to analyze HCE patterns for different health care services and by primary disease. Our main findings indicate that the effect of age on total HCE is lower when morbidity is controlled for while it increases when we also condition on TTD. This indicates that, compared to those incurred at older ages, earlier deaths are associated with higher HCE. At younger ages, increased expenditures are also observed as the severity of the health condition deteriorates. We also show that expenses for out-of-hospital services mainly drive the evolution of total HCE by age, while inpatient expenses are primarily determined by morbidity and TTD. In the end-of-life period, hospital costs continue to rise, whereas expenses incurred for all other services fall sharply in the year of death. We prove that expenses for long-lasting conditions start to increase long before death, while those for acute conditions grow exponentially only in the last two years of life. Our work contributes to informing cost-containment policies through a better understanding of HCE evolution during the life cycle and in the last years of life.
Estimates for approximately Jensen convex functions
Authors: Molnár G. M. , Páles Zs.
Published: February 2025

In this paper functions

$$f \colon D \to\mathbb{R}$$

f
:
D
→
R

satisfying the inequality

$$
f\big(\frac{x+y}{2}\big)\leq\frac12f(x)+\frac12f(y)
+\varphi\big(\frac{x-y}{2}\big) \quad(x,y\in D)$$

f

(

x
+
y

2

)

≤

1
2

f

(
x
)

+

1
2

f

(
y
)

+
φ

(

x
-
y

2

)

(
x
,
y
∈
D
)

are studied, where

$$D$$

D

is a nonempty convex subset of a real linear space

$$X$$

X

and

$$\varphi \colon \{\frac12(x-y) : x,y \in D\}\to\mathbb{R}$$

φ
:
{

1
2

(
x
-
y
)

:
x
,
y
∈
D
}
→
R

is a so-called error function. In this situation

$$f$$

f

is said to be

$$\varphi$$

φ

-Jensen convex. The main results show that for all

$$\varphi$$

φ

-Jensen convex function

$$f \colon D \to\mathbb{R}$$

f
:
D
→
R

, for all rational

$$\lambda\in[0,1]$$

λ
∈
[
0
,
1
]

and

$$x,y\in D$$

x
,
y
∈
D

, the following inequality holds

$$
f(\lambda x+(1-\lambda)y)
\leq \lambda f(x)+(1-\lambda)f(y)+\sum_{k=0}^\infty
\frac{1}{2^k}\varphi((2^k\lambda,\mathbb{Z})\cdot(x-y)).
$$

f

(
λ
x
+

(
1
-
λ
)

y
)

≤
λ
f

(
x
)

+

(
1
-
λ
)

f

(
y
)

+

∑

k
=
0

∞

1

2
k

φ

(

(

2
k

λ
,
Z
)

·

(
x
-
y
)

)

.

The infinite series on the right hand side is always convergent, moreover, for all rational

$$\lambda\in[0,1]$$

λ
∈
[
0
,
1
]

, it can be evaluated as a finite sum.
Dual-functionality of Hibiscus sabdariffa-CuO nanoparticles in chemotherapy and textile screen-printing on cellulose-based textiles
Authors: Tüzün Elif , Erol Ayşe , Kalındemirtaş Ferdane Danışman , Özbaş Fatih , Sert Esra , Soomro Razium Ali , Nafady Ayman , Karakuş Selcan
Published: February 2025

The dual-functional nanostructures show great promise for biomedical applications, exhibiting selective cytotoxicity against cancer cells while also serving as a crucial component in textile screen-printing for smart materials. In this study, we successfully synthesized polyethylene glycol-hibiscus extract copper (II) oxide nanoparticles (PEG/HS/CuO NPs) using a simple one-step sonosynthesis method that leverages ultrasonic irradiation. Comprehensive characterization of the synthesized PEG/HS/CuO NPs was performed using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The incorporation of PEG/HS/CuO NPs into guar gum photochromic solution (GP) caused a significant color change after 6 ± 1 min of UV light exposure and resulted in visible coloration on cellulose-based textiles after screen printing, providing an alternative strategy for smart fabrics. Moreover, cytotoxicity experiments demonstrated the selective toxicity of green PEG/HS/CuO NPs against cancer cells. In this study, the human colon cancer cell line HCT116, breast cancer cell line MCF-7, and normal HUVEC cells were examined. PEG/HS/CuO NPs NPs induced apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, and down-regulation of CD44 antibody expression in MCF-7 cells, highlighting their potential as effective chemotherapy agents.
A Preliminary Examination of the Associations Between Sleep Quality and Body Dysmorphia Symptoms Among Two Separate Samples of Adolescents
Authors: Bilsky Sarah A. , Sachner Leila C. , Embry Racheal A. , Hopper Kayce M.
Published: February 2025

Obsessive compulsive and related disorders have been linked to sleep disturbances. Given that adolescence is a core risk period for body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), and sleep difficulties are particularly prevalent during adolescence, the current study aims to examine associations between sleep quality and BDD symptoms among two separate samples of adolescents. It was hypothesized that lower reported sleep quality would be associated with higher reported BDD symptoms, even after controlling for anxiety and depression. Study 1 included 325 adolescents aged 11–18 years who completed an online survey via social media recruitment. The survey included questionnaires on BDD symptoms, sleep quality, and anxiety and depressive disorder symptoms. Study 2 included 396 adolescents who completed the same online survey. In study 1, a significant omnibus regression model accounted for 20.0% of the variance in adolescent BDD symptoms. After controlling for anxiety and depressive symptoms, adolescent sleep quality was significantly associated with BDD symptoms, with a small effect size (sr

2
 = 0.02). Study 2 yielded similar results, with a significant omnibus regression model accounting for 26.5% of the variance in adolescent BDD symptoms, and significant associations between adolescent sleep quality and BDD symptoms yielding a small effect size (sr

2
 = 0.01). Exploratory analyses in both studies demonstrated associations between difficulty returning to wakefulness and BDD symptoms. Adolescent sleep quality and BDD symptoms were linked, such that adolescents who reported lower quality sleep also reported higher levels of BDD symptoms. Future research can aim to replicate and extend these results using more rigorous (e.g., longitudinal, experimental) methods.
Conceptual Engineering Should be Empirical
Authors: Landes Ethan
Published: February 2025

Conceptual engineering is a philosophical method that aims to design and spread conceptual and linguistic devices to cause meaningful changes in the world. So far, however, conceptual engineers have struggled to successfully spread the conceptual and linguistic entities they have designed to their target communities. This paper argues that conceptual engineering is far more likely to succeed if it incorporates empirical data and empirical methods. Because the causal factors influencing the successful propagation of linguistic or conceptual devices are as complicated and interwoven as they are, proper empirical research will greatly boost the likelihood that propagation is successful. In arguing for the superiority of empirical conceptual engineering over armchair-based conceptual engineering, this paper proposes a framework for understanding the causal forces at play in propagation. This is a three-part framework between the label of a lexical item, the psychological states associated with the lexical item, and the worldly things associated with the lexical item. By understanding the way causal forces affecting propagation play out at these three levels, conceptual engineers can better conceptualize, study, and harness the different causal forces affecting the success of their conceptual engineering projects.
Bio-agronomic and genetic variability of local lemon cultivars from Southern Italy
Authors: Smimmo Roberta , Cirillo Aurora , Di Serio Ermanno , Garramone Raffaele , Villano Clizia , Aversano Riccardo , Carputo Domenico , Di Vaio Claudio
Published: February 2025

In Italy, lemon is a crucial economic cultivation, primarily grown in southern regions like Sicily, Calabria, Apulia and Campania. Despite its importance, the number of cultivars is limited and efforts are being made to both exploit and preserve local cultivars. Bio-agronomic and genetic characterization are essential steps towards achieving these goals. Our study explores the phenotypic and genetic diversity of four local cultivars from Campania region, ‘Ovale di Sorrento’, ‘Sfusato Amalfitano’, ‘Procida’ and ‘San Francesco’, over two years (2021 and 2022). We evaluated agronomic parameters of the entire plant, fruits and seeds, and conducted biochemical analyses of lemon juice. Furthermore, we addressed the challenges posed by low interspecific genetic variation through simple sequence repeat (SSR) and single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) marker analysis. Field data revealed significant differences in production between the two years and among the cultivars, with ‘Ovale di Sorrento’ and ‘Sfusato Amalfitano’ being the most productive, and ‘Procida’ recording the lowest values of soluble solids and acidity. Genotyping data from 19 SSR markers confirmed low variability, while ddRADSeq-based SNP analysis revealed clear structuration into three distinct groups: the first group comprised ‘Ovale di Sorrento’ and ‘San Francesco,’ differentiated from ‘Procida’ and ‘Sfusato Amalfitano’. Additionally, 29 high-effect variants provided valuable insights into the genetic distinctions and functional variations among the four lemon cultivars. In particular, the presence of variants in genes associated with mobile elements confirmed their significant contribution to the genetic diversity of plants. This study underscores the importance of combining phenotypic and genotypic analyses for better varietal characterization and valorization.
Unveiling the therapeutic potential of aromadendrin (AMD): a promising anti-inflammatory agent in the prevention of chronic diseases
Authors: El-Shiekh Riham A. , Radi Mai Hussin , Abdel-Sattar Essam
Published: February 2025

In the dynamic realm of scientific inquiry, the identification and characterization of biologically active compounds derived from plant extracts have become of utmost significance. A particularly noteworthy flavonoid in this regard is aromadendrin (AMD), which can be found in a diverse range of foods, fruits, plants, and natural sources. The versatility of this compound is evident through its wide array of biological properties, including its well-documented anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antidiabetic, neuroprotective, immunomodulatory, cardioprotective, and hepatoprotective effects. These diverse actions validate its potential utilization in addressing drug-related side effects, adverse reactions, neoplasms, ulcers, jaundice, diabetes mellitus, dermatitis, neurodegenerative diseases, cognitive disorders, polyploidy, carcinomas, common colds, and cumulative trauma disorders. This review aims to unlock the full potential of AMD and pave the way for groundbreaking advancements in the fields of medicine and nutrition. Prepare to embark on an enthralling journey as we unveil the hidden treasures and extraordinary prospects associated with AMD.
Becoming Similar, but Drifting Apart: Partnerships Between Universities and Public Research Organizations
Authors: Thune Taran , Borlaug Siri Brorstad
Published: February 2025

Many national research and innovation systems include higher education institutions and public research organizations (PRO) with different mandates and tasks. This paper investigates what happens to the relationship between a university and a PRO when they are increasingly pushed towards fulfilling similar tasks and functions. We investigate this through a historical case study of the relationship between a university and a PRO within the field of science and technology and draw on concepts from the institutional logics and institutional complexity literatures to frame the study. We find that in the early phase of the relationship, institutional complexity was handled through a strategy of “structural differentiation” where the university outsourced the commercial logic to the PRO, but in practice the two operated as integrated organizations. In the later phases, growing external demands and internal developments led to a “blending” strategy where the university reincorporated the commercial science logic. This had a fundamental impact on the relationship between the two organizations in terms of increased competition and blurring of roles, which led to increased structural and operational separation. Our study underlines the importance of considering wider, and often unintended, ramifications of policies on the research and innovation system as a whole.
An automated approach for difference detection in cultural heritage applications
Authors: Saiti Evdokia , Saha Sunita , Bunsch Eryk , Sitnik Robert , Theoharis Theoharis
Published: February 2025

This paper presents the application of two key stages in Cultural Heritage (CH) analysis: cross-time registration and change detection, aimed at automatically identifying subtle geometric variations in CH objects. The proposed method addresses the challenge of manually aligning and detecting differences among large collections of 3D-digitized objects, which is both time-consuming and error-prone. The method combines CrossTimeReg deep learning technique for automatic registration and the Change-Based-Segmentation method for identifying differences and segmented changes. We applied this method to two ceramic sculptures, titled Zephyr and Flora, from the Museum of King Jan III’s Palace at Wilanów, Poland, and validated the results with the CH scientific experts of the museum. The results demonstrated that our method effectively detected geometric variations resulting from potential alterations or restorations, which are crucial for verifying the authenticity of artifacts. Additionally, the method facilitated comparative analysis, enabling researchers to examine similar objects and establish connections, origins, and historical significance. The technique also proved useful in analyzing changes in the geometry of the same object over time due to destructive factors.
Good enough? A comparison of different harmonization procedures and their substantive consequences using the example of life satisfaction
Authors: Heizmann Boris
Published: February 2025

Survey data harmonization can greatly improve the analytical potentials of survey data by making divergent measurements of the same construct comparable. While there may often be ideas on what is the optimal harmonization strategy (e.g. imputation or equipercentile equating), these approaches are not always feasible e.g. due to data-based restrictions or the lack of a suitable reference sample. Therefore, sometimes there is only a set of second-best strategies, such as linear equating or linear stretching, with no clear idea which of these should be given preference. The present paper takes this situation as a starting point and investigates the substantive consequences of different alternatives for a typical harmonization scenario using real-world survey data. Divergent substantive consequences are understood as differences in obtained analytical result patterns. Do the actual scientific conclusions differ when different harmonization approaches are employed? Results based on a variety of regression scenarios indicate that most substantive conclusions are obtained regardless of the harmonization approach chosen, but that harmonization procedures entailing an information loss due to recoding variables into smaller sets of categories should be avoided. Overall, this suggests that research based on sub-optimally harmonized scales can also yield valid scientific insights.
Writing and iconicity in The Idiot: towards Dostoevsky’ s graphopoetics
Authors: Horváth Géza
Published: February 2025

Dostoevsky’s discourse in The Idiot is aimed—and this is his main artistic task—at developing the artistic language of a previously unknown world, of the singular human experience unfolding within the novel, rather than at conveying a finished, completed plot. The focus of this paper is on the process of constructing this new symbolic language of self-understanding, which can be approached through an analysis of the unique interplay of textuality, visuality and corporeality in this novel and in the genre of the modern novel. This paper shall examine the crucial role played by Dostoevsky’s drawings and calligraphy in the poetics of The Idiot in the context of the genesis of this novel, in order to show that the “ideograms” that appear in sketches and drafts are saturated with metaphorical meaning and thus become text- and plot-forming motifs and discursive signs. This new discourse of the novel incorporates several other literary works at the level of intertextuality (specifically Cervantes’ Don Quixote and Victor Hugo’s novel The Last Day of the Condemned Man), and in this way recalls the genre specificity of the modern novel and the creative processes of text and plot creation.
Under pressure? Exploring the moderating and mediating role of principal–teacher relationships in primary and secondary school teachers’ burnout symptoms
Authors: Dehne Mathias , Roorda Debora L. , Koomen Helma M. Y. , Zee Marjolein
Published: February 2025

Identifying protective factors against increased work pressure is crucial to prevent teachers from experiencing burnout complaints. Two studies with 363 primary (Study 1; 95.0% female) and 419 secondary school teachers (Study 2; 80.4% female) tested whether dyad-level principal–teacher relationships (closeness, conflict) moderated or mediated the associations between work pressure and burnout symptoms. In both studies, closeness and conflict partially mediated the association of work pressure with emotional exhaustion and depersonalization. Closeness fully (Study 1) or partially (Study 2) mediated the association with personal accomplishment. However, no evidence for a moderating role was found. To conclude, principal–teacher relationships seem to be a potential mechanism underlying the association between work pressure and burnout.