bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical analysis of the local damage of RC beams under close‐in explosions based on the calibrated Karagozian & Case (K&C) concrete model
Authors: Xu Yingliang , Liu Yan , Huang Fenglei , Yan Junbo , Bai Fan , Si Peng , Li Xu
Published: April 2024

Limited research has been carried out to investigate the local damage features of reinforced concrete (RC) beams under close‐in explosions. To better capture the local damage features of rectangular cross‐sectional RC beams, a numerical study on the RC beams subjected to close‐in explosions based on the calibrated Karagozian & Case (K&C) concrete model was conducted in LSDYNA. First, a systematic calibration of the K&C model for concrete was performed in the single‐element numerical analysis. Calibration of the K&C model consists of parameter determination for the new strength surfaces, modification of the damage function to better feature the tensile behavior of concrete, elimination of the element size effect by introducing an element size factor and determination of the scaled damage factors. The new strength surfaces are verified and determined through both the approximation calculation method and the parameter fitting method. And the damage function was modified by reducing the termination of λ to better characterize the brittleness of concrete and feature the tensile failure. A comparison between the numerical results and the corresponding experimental results demonstrates that the calibrated K&C model and established FEM model of RC beams subjected to close‐in explosions can well characterize the local damage features of RC beams. On this basis, a further parameter analysis on the factors influencing the local damage response of RC beams was conducted by considering reinforcement details (stirrup spacing and longitudinal reinforcement diameter) and charge details (charge mass and aspect ratio). Results show that the close‐in explosions destroyed the concrete corners in the blast surface with shear stress first and the side shear failure of concrete corners weakens the concrete core strength and contributes to the greater loss of concrete core. Rear spalling damage was initially caused by the bond failure between the tensile longitudinal reinforcement and the surrounding concrete. Furthermore, increasing stirrup spacing, tensile longitudinal reinforcement diameter, and charge mass contribute to the increase in local damage sizes.
Using functional decomposition to bridge the design gap between desired emergent multi‐agent‐system resilience and individual agent design
Authors: Hernandez Isabella , Watson Bryan C. , Weissburg Marc J. , Bras Bert
Published: April 2024

Increasing the resilience of modern infrastructure systems is recognized as a priority by both the International Council on Systems Engineering and the National Academy of Engineering. Resilience answers the key stakeholder need for a stable and predictable system by withstanding, adapting to, and recovering from unexpected faults. Increasing resilience in multi‐agent systems is especially challenging because resilience is an emergent system‐level property rather than the sum of individual agent functions. This paper uses biological systems as a source of inspiration for resilient functions, examining the central question How can biologically inspired design be used to increase the emergent property of resilience in multi‐agent systems? The paper uses functional decomposition to break down the individual functions that result in resilience and transfer the properties to generalized systems. Accordingly, the central hypothesis examined in this article is If functional decomposition is performed on eusocial insect colonies, then generalizable approaches to increase the emergent property of multi‐agent system resilience can be identified. The results provide two contributions. The first contribution is the identification of six general functions based on eusocial insect behavior that influence resilience. The second contribution is a description of the process of identifying and transferring insect behaviors into generalized design‐for‐resilience guidance. To support these contributions, a case study applies biologically inspired functions to an emergency power service system and proposes tactics for the power system to improve its resilience. Thus, this article provides a key step towards our goal of using biologically inspired design to influence the emergent property of resilience in multi‐agent systems.
Globally deployed sorghum aphid resistance gene RMES1 is vulnerable to biotype shifts but is bolstered by RMES2
Authors: VanGessel Carl , Rice Brian , Felderhoff Terry J. , Charles Jean Rigaud , Pressoir Gael , Nalam Vamsi , Morris Geoffrey P.
Published: April 2024

Durable host plant resistance (HPR) to insect pests is critical for sustainable agriculture. Natural variation exists for aphid HPR in sorghum (Sorghum bicolor), but the genetic architecture and phenotype have not been clarified and characterized for most sources. In order to assess the current threat of a sorghum aphid (Melanaphis sorghi) biotype shift, we characterized the phenotype of Resistance to Melanaphis sorghi 1 (RMES1) and additional HPR architecture in globally admixed populations selected under severe sorghum aphid infestation in Haiti. We found RMES1 reduces sorghum aphid fecundity but not bird cherry‐oat aphid (Rhopalosiphum padi) fecundity, suggesting a discriminant HPR response typical of gene‐for‐gene interaction. A second resistant gene, Resistance to Melanaphis sorghi 2 (RMES2), was more frequent than RMES1 resistant alleles in landraces and historic breeding lines. RMES2 contributes early and mid‐season aphid resistance in a segregating F2 population; however, RMES1 was only significant with mid‐season fitness. In a fixed population with high sorghum aphid resistance, RMES1 and RMES2 were selected for demonstrating a lack of severe antagonistic pleiotropy. Associations with resistance colocated with cyanogenic glucoside biosynthesis genes support additional HPR sources. Globally, therefore, an HPR source vulnerable to biotype shift via selection pressure (RMES1) is bolstered by a second common source of resistance in breeding programs (RMES2), which may be staving off a biotype shift and is critical for sustainable sorghum production.
Research to develop the ability to remove As(III) ions in water of an environmentally friendly hybrid material based on bacterial cellulose and graphene oxide
Authors: Nguyen Tuan Anh , Oanh Doan Thi Yen , Nguyen Manh Ha , Nguyen The Huu , Nguyen Thi Thu Phuong , Le Thi Hong Nhung , Nguyen Minh Viet , Pham Thi Mai Huong , Nguyen Quang Tung
Published: April 2024

The nanocomposite material bacterial cellulose/graphene oxide (BC/GO) is fabricated using bacterial cellulose derived from coconut husk biomass. The nano cellulose fibers retain their natural structure and intertwine with graphene oxide. The SEM method confirms the interwoven structure between the nanocellulose fibers and graphene oxide. As the proportion of graphene oxide increases, the tensile strength of the material improves, peaking at 95.68 MPa with a BC:GO ratio of 1:7. Additionally, the Young's modulus measures at 12.87 GPa. Post‐fabrication, the BC/GO membrane undergoes structural and mechanical property evaluations and is tested for its ability to remove As(III) ions from water. Parameters like adsorption capacity, contact time, adsorbent mass, pH values, and stirring rate are assessed for their influence on the adsorption efficiency. Results indicate that the BC/GO‐3 material (BC/GO volume ratio of 1:7) exhibits the most promising performance, achieving a maximum adsorption capacity of 18.69 mg g−1 at pH = 6, 40 °C (313 K), an optimum adsorption time of 160 min, a stirring rate of 150 rpm, and an appropriate adsorbent mass of 0.10 g. The Freundlich and Langmuir isotherm models are found to fit well with the adsorption process based on regression coefficients, suggesting their suitability in describing the adsorption behavior. Additionally, GO/BC demonstrates high efficiency in the regeneration and recovery of As(III) metal ions, as well as a high adsorption capacity.
Canine and feline foetal fluids: Volume, hormonal and biochemical characterization during pregnancy
Authors: Sahraei Hossein , Mogheiseh Asghar , Nazifi Saeed , Divar Mohammad‐Reza , Iraji Fatemeh
Published: April 2024

Background and objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the volume, the concentration of steroid hormones, and biochemical composition of the foetal fluids at different gestational ages in dogs and cats.

Methods

Following the ovariohysterectomy, the allantoic and amniotic fluid samples were collected from pregnant bitches and queens and were assigned to different groups according to their gestational age.

Results

The canine and feline allantoic fluid volume increased during pregnancy, reached its maximum values on days 40–49 and then decreased. The canine and feline amniotic fluid volume increased steadily by the last days of pregnancy. In spite of significant changes of sex hormones in the foetal fluids, their concentration and ratios were not significantly different between male and female fetuses. The canine amniotic cortisol concentration increased until days 40–49 and decreased significantly afterwards. The maximum cortisol concentrations in the feline allantoic and amniotic fluids were observed on days 50–60 and 40–49, respectively. During the canine pregnancy, the concentrations of calcium, phosphorus, chloride, sodium, triglyceride, cholesterol, total protein, albumin and the activities of aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), amylase and gamma‐glutamyl transferase (GGT) in the amniotic fluid were higher than the allantoic fluid. The magnesium, potassium, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity, creatine and lipase were higher in the allantoic fluid. In the feline allantoic fluid, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, creatinine, albumin and glucose concentrations and the activities of creatine kinase (CK), GGT, LDH and lipase were higher. The ALP, AST activities, sodium and calcium concentrations were higher in the amniotic fluid (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Volume of foetal fluids was determined in dogs and cats. Concentration of sex hormones did not different between male and female fetuses.
Relative biological efficacy of methionine hydroxy analogue‐free acid compared to dl‐methionine in the broiler chickens
Authors: Zarghi Heydar , Ghavi Saeed
Published: April 2024

Background

In the broiler's diets based on corn–soya bean meal, methionine (Met) and cystine (Cys), known as sulphur amino acids (SAAs), are the first limiting indispensable amino acids because of their limited presence, which are supplemented with different synthetic sources. Evaluation of the biological effectiveness of these sources can be important in their correct replacement, especially in the starter and growth diets.

Objectives

The current study was done to assess the relative biological efficacy (RBE) of liquid Met hydroxy analogue‐free acid (MHA‐FA) in comparison with dl‐Met (dl‐Met) based on broiler performance traits at different levels of digestible SAA in the 1–11 (starter) and 11–25 (grower) days of age periods.

Methods

Two experiments were developed with treatments consisting of a basal diet without Met addition that met the nutrient and energy requirements of broilers with the exception of SAAs (Met + Cys) and five increasing Met doses for both sources (dl‐Met and/or MHA‐FA), resulting in digestible SAA concentrations from 0.62% to 1.02% of diet in the starter period (Trial 1) and 0.59% to 0.94% of diet in the grower period (Trial 2). The multi‐linear regression model and slope ratio method were employed to calculate the RBE of MHA‐FA compared with dl‐Met for measured variables.

Results

In both experiments, the results obtained during the starter and grower periods with the different Met supplementations show significant growth responses to digestible SAAs levels. By increasing dietary dl‐Met and/or MHA‐FA levels, the growth performance traits and immune responses were improved (quadratic; p < 0.05). The RBE of MHA‐FA compared to dl‐Met on an equimolar basis was estimated 66%–89% (59%–79% on a weight‐to‐weight basis).

Conclusions

It is concluded that the RBE of MHA‐FA in comparison with dl‐Met depends on broiler chicken age and what attribute is being evaluated.
The treatment of oily wastewater by thermo‐responsive calcium alginate capsules immobilized Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Lin Yin‐liang , Zhao Ming‐xin , Yu Ya‐lan , Liu Sheng‐li , Li Min , Jiang A‐li , Deng Min
Published: April 2024

A microfluidic strategy of smart calcium alginate (CA) capsules is presented to immobilize Pseudomonas aeruginosa to treat oil slicks effectively. The capsule wall is embedded with poly (N‐isopropyl acrylamide) sub‐microspheres as thermo‐responsive switches. CA capsules, with a diameter of 3.26 mm and a thin wall thickness about 12.8 μm, have satisfying monodispersity, cavity structure, and dense surface structures. The capsules possess excellent encapsulation of bacteria, which are fixed in a restricted space and become more aggregated. It overcomes the disadvantages of a long fermentation production cycle, easy loss of bacteria, and susceptibility to shear effect. The smart CA capsules immobilized with bacteria treat model wastewater containing soybean oil or diesel and display favorable fermentation ability. The capsules can effectively treat oil slicks with high concentration, and it is an economical way for processing oily wastewater.

Practitioner Points

A thermo‐responsive calcium alginate capsule was prepared by microfluidic strategy.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is environmentally friendly in treating oil slicks.

The capsules, immobilized bacteria, treat oil slicks effectively.

This study provides an economical way for processing different oily water.
Twisted coefficients on coarse spaces and their corona
Authors: Hartmann Elisa
Published: April 2024

To a metric space X we associate a compact topological space $$\nu '({X})$$

ν
′

(
X
)

called the corona of X. Then a coarse map $$f:X\rightarrow Y$$

f
:
X
→
Y

between metric spaces is mapped to a continuous map $$\nu '({f}):\nu '({X})\rightarrow \nu '({Y})$$

ν
′

(
f
)

:

ν
′

(
X
)

→

ν
′

(
Y
)

between coronas. Sheaf cohomology assigned to a coarse metric space is preserved and reflected by the corona functor. This work reveals new tools to analyze the Higson corona.
Associations of 24 h time-use compositions of sitting, standing, physical activity and sleeping with optimal cardiometabolic risk and glycaemic control: The Maastricht Study
Authors: Brakenridge Christian J. , Koster Annemarie , de Galan Bastiaan E. , Carver Alison , Dumuid Dorothea , Dzakpasu Francis Q. S. , Eussen Simone J. P. M. , Savelberg Hans H. C. M. , Bosma Hans , Owen Neville , Schaper Nicolaas C. , Healy Genevieve N. , Dunstan David W.
Published: April 2024

Aims/hypothesis

The associations of sitting, standing, physical activity and sleep with cardiometabolic health and glycaemic control markers are interrelated. We aimed to identify 24 h time-use compositions associated with optimal metabolic and glycaemic control and determine whether these varied by diabetes status.

Methods

Thigh-worn activPAL data from 2388 participants aged 40–75 years (48.7% female; mean age 60.1 [SD = 8.1] years; n=684 with type 2 diabetes) in The Maastricht Study were examined. Compositional isometric log ratios were generated from mean 24 h time use (sitting, standing, light-intensity physical activity [LPA], moderate-to-vigorous physical activity [MVPA] and sleeping) and regressed with outcomes of waist circumference, fasting plasma glucose (FPG), 2 h plasma glucose, HbA1c, the Matsuda index expressed as z scores, and with a clustered cardiometabolic risk score. Overall analyses were adjusted for demographics, smoking, dietary intake and diabetes status, and interaction by diabetes status was examined separately. The estimated difference when substituting 30 min of one behaviour with another was determined with isotemporal substitution. To identify optimal time use, all combinations of 24 h compositions possible within the study footprint (1st–99th percentile of each behaviour) were investigated to determine those cross-sectionally associated with the most-optimal outcome (top 5%) for each outcome measure.

Results

Compositions lower in sitting time and with greater standing time, physical activity and sleeping had the most beneficial associations with outcomes. Associations were stronger in participants with type 2 diabetes (p<0.05 for interactions), with larger estimated benefits for waist circumference, FPG and HbA1c when sitting was replaced by LPA or MVPA in those with type 2 diabetes vs the overall sample. The mean (range) optimal compositions of 24 h time use, considering all outcomes, were 6 h (range 5 h 40 min–7 h 10 min) for sitting, 5 h 10 min (4 h 10 min–6 h 10 min) for standing, 2 h 10 min (2 h–2 h 20 min) for LPA, 2 h 10 min (1 h 40 min–2 h 20 min) for MVPA and 8 h 20 min (7 h 30 min–9 h) for sleeping.

Conclusions/interpretation

Shorter sitting time and more time spent standing, undergoing physical activity and sleeping are associated with preferable cardiometabolic health. The substitutions of behavioural time use were significantly stronger in their associations with glycaemic control in those with type 2 diabetes compared with those with normoglycaemic metabolism, especially when sitting time was balanced with greater physical activity.

Graphical Abstract
Immune system inspired smart maintenance framework: tool wear monitoring use case
Authors: Pulikottil Terrin , Martínez-Arellano Giovanna , Barata Jose
Published: April 2024

As the manufacturing industry is moving towards the fourth industrial revolution, there is an increasing need for smart maintenance systems that could provide manufacturers with a competitive advantage by predicting failures. Despite various efforts by researchers, there are still challenges for these systems to work reliably in the industry such as lack of adaptability, resilience, reaction to disturbances, and future-proofing. Bio-inspired frameworks like artificial immune systems provide an alternative approach to satisfying these challenges. But existing immune-based frameworks focus only on adaptive immunity characteristics and ignore innate immunity which is important for quick detection and faster response. There is a need for a holistic view of the immune system in developing an adaptive & resilient maintenance framework. This paper presents a holistic view of the human immune system with a focus on the intelligence & response mechanism of both innate & adaptive immunity. Inspired by this holistic view and considering the emerging computer technologies — Internet of Things, Edge & Cloud Computing, Multi-Agent System, Ontology, Big Data, Digital Twin, Machine Learning, and Augmented Reality — we present a smart maintenance framework. The proposed framework is used for tool condition monitoring to demonstrate its implementation.
ESR Essentials: screening for breast cancer - general recommendations by EUSOBI
Authors: Marcon Magda , Fuchsjäger Michael H. , Clauser Paola , Mann Ritse M.
Published: April 2024

Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in women accounting for about 30% of all new cancer cases and the incidence is constantly increasing. Implementation of mammographic screening has contributed to a reduction in breast cancer mortality of at least 20% over the last 30 years. Screening programs usually include all women irrespective of their risk of developing breast cancer and with age being the only determining factor. This approach has some recognized limitations, including underdiagnosis, false positive cases, and overdiagnosis. Indeed, breast cancer remains a major cause of cancer-related deaths in women undergoing cancer screening. Supplemental imaging modalities, including digital breast tomosynthesis, ultrasound, breast MRI, and, more recently, contrast-enhanced mammography, are available and have already shown potential to further increase the diagnostic performances. Use of breast MRI is recommended in high-risk women and women with extremely dense breasts. Artificial intelligence has also shown promising results to support risk categorization and interval cancer reduction. The implementation of a risk-stratified approach instead of a “one-size-fits-all” approach may help to improve the benefit-to-harm ratio as well as the cost-effectiveness of breast cancer screening.

Key Points

Regular mammography should still be considered the mainstay of the breast cancer screening.

High-risk women and women with extremely dense breast tissue should use MRI for supplemental screening or US if MRI is not available.

Women need to participate actively in the decision to undergo personalized screening.

Key recommendations

Mammography is an effective imaging tool to diagnose breast cancer in an early stage and to reduce breast cancer mortality (evidence level I). Until more evidence is available to move to a personalized approach, regular mammography should be considered the mainstay of the breast cancer screening.

High-risk women should start screening earlier; first with yearly breast MRI which can be supplemented by yearly or biennial mammography starting at 35–40 years old (evidence level I). Breast MRI screening should be also offered to women with extremely dense breasts (evidence level I). If MRI is not available, ultrasound can be performed as an alternative, although the added value of supplemental ultrasound regarding cancer detection remains limited.

Individual screening recommendations should be made through a shared decision-making process between women and physicians.
BTK inhibition limits microglia-perpetuated CNS inflammation and promotes myelin repair
Authors: Geladaris Anastasia , Torke Sebastian , Saberi Darius , Alankus Yasemin B. , Streit Frank , Zechel Sabrina , Stadelmann-Nessler Christine , Fischer Andreas , Boschert Ursula , Häusler Darius , Weber Martin S.
Published: April 2024

In multiple sclerosis (MS), persisting disability can occur independent of relapse activity or development of new central nervous system (CNS) inflammatory lesions, termed chronic progression. This process occurs early and it is mostly driven by cells within the CNS. One promising strategy to control progression of MS is the inhibition of the enzyme Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK), which is centrally involved in the activation of both B cells and myeloid cells, such as macrophages and microglia. The benefit of BTK inhibition by evobrutinib was shown as we observed reduced pro-inflammatory activation of microglia when treating chronic experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) or following the adoptive transfer of activated T cells. Additionally, in a model of toxic demyelination, evobrutinib-mediated BTK inhibition promoted the clearance of myelin debris by microglia, leading to an accelerated remyelination. These findings highlight that BTK inhibition has the potential to counteract underlying chronic progression of MS.
Baroreflex dynamics during the rest to exercise transient in acute normobaric hypoxia in humans
Authors: Taboni Anna , Fagoni Nazzareno , Fontolliet Timothée , Vinetti Giovanni , Ferretti Guido
Published: April 2024

Purpose

We hypothesised that during a rest-to-exercise transient in hypoxia (H), compared to normoxia (N), (i) the initial baroreflex sensitivity (BRS) decrease would be slower and (ii) the fast heart rate (HR) and cardiac output (CO) response would have smaller amplitude (A1) due to lower vagal activity in H than N.

Methods

Ten participants performed three rest-to-50 W exercise transients on a cycle-ergometer in N (ambient air) and three in H (inspired fraction of O2 = 0.11). R-to-R interval (RRi, by electrocardiography) and blood pressure profile (by photo-plethysmography) were recorded non-invasively. Analysis of the latter provided mean arterial pressure (MAP) and stroke volume (SV). CO = HR·SV. BRS was calculated by modified sequence method.

Results

Upon exercise onset in N, MAP fell to a minimum (MAPmin) then recovered. BRS decreased immediately from 14.7 ± 3.6 at rest to 7.0 ± 3.0 ms mmHg−1 at 50 W (p < 0.01). The first BRS sequence detected at 50 W was 8.9 ± 4.8 ms mmHg−1 (p < 0.05 vs. rest). In H, MAP showed several oscillations until reaching a new steady state. BRS decreased rapidly from 10.6 ± 2.8 at rest to 2.9 ± 1.5 ms mmHg−1 at 50 W (p < 0.01), as the first BRS sequence at 50 W was 5.8 ± 2.6 ms mmHg−1 (p < 0.01 vs. rest). CO-A1 was 2.96 ± 1.51 and 2.31 ± 0.94 l min−1 in N and H, respectively (p = 0.06). HR-A1 was 7.7 ± 4.6 and 7.1 ± 5.9 min−1 in N and H, respectively (p = 0.81).

Conclusion

The immediate BRS decrease in H, coupled with similar rapid HR and CO responses, is compatible with a withdrawal of residual vagal activity in H associated with increased sympathetic drive.
Analysis of the summer thermal comfort indices in İstanbul
Authors: Yılmaz Merve , Kara Yiğitalp , Toros Hüseyin , İncecik Selahattin
Published: April 2024

Thermal indices and thermal comfort maps have great importance in developing health-minded climate action strategies and livable urban layouts. Especially in cities where vulnerability to heatwaves is high, it is necessary to detect the most appropriate indicators for the regional characteristics and action planning with respect to thermal comfort. The aim of the study is to examine thermal indices as indicators of regional climate characteristics by relating to meteorological parameters and spatial features. Atmospheric variables including air temperature, wind speed, cloud cover, and relative humidity data were obtained from 30 meteorological stations located in districts having different climatic features. Heat stress levels for apparent temperature (AT), heat index (HI), wet bulb globe temperature (WBGT), physiological equivalent temperature (PET), universal thermal climate index (UTCI), and perceived temperature (PT) indices were calculated and associated with meteorological parameters. Thermal comfort maps have been created with the daily mean and maximum values of all indices. As a result, the meteorological parameters with the strongest correlation with all thermal indices are air temperature (Ta) with r = 0.89 ± 0.01 and mean radiant temperature (Tmrt) with r = 0.75 ± 0.16. The differences in thermal stress levels over the city have been distinctively observed in the ATmax, PETmax, and PTmax maps, which are generated by the daily maximum values of the indices. Çatalca, where forests cover large areas compared to highly urbanized districts, has the lowest heat stress defined by all indices.
Behandlungsstrategien bei Patient:innen mit Alkoholkonsumstörung und eingeschränkter Leberfunktion
Authors: Sommer Lea , Weber Sabine , Díaz Luis Antonio , Trojer Armin , Listabarth Stephan , Groemer Magdalena , Arab Juan Pablo , König Daniel
Published: April 2024

Neben psychosozialer und psychotherapeutischer Betreuung stehen in der Behandlung von Alkoholkonsumstörungen auch Psychopharmaka zur Verfügung. Trotz Zulassung und Evidenz über wirksame Unterstützung zur Aufrechterhaltung der Alkoholabstinenz wird diese Behandlungsoption oft erst verspätet, wenn sich bereits Folgeerkrankungen, insbesondere alkoholbedingte Lebererkrankungen (ALE) manifestiert haben, oder teilweise gar nicht angeboten. Die weitere Behandlung der Alkoholkonsumstörungen kann dadurch zusätzlich verkompliziert werden. Als mögliche Ursachen für den verspäteten Einsatz von Psychopharmaka in diesem Zusammenhang werden unter anderem ein mangelhafter Wissensstand und Stigmatisierung innerhalb des medizinischen Personals beschrieben. Die vorliegende Arbeit soll daher einen Überblick über wichtige Teilaspekte der multidisziplinären und integrativen Betreuung bei Alkoholkonsumstörung verschaffen.
Virtual reality reusable e-resources for clinical skills training: a mixed-methods evaluation
Authors: Pears Matthew , Antoniou Panagiotis E. , Schiza Eirini , Ntakakis Georgios , Henderson James , Frangoudes Fotos , Nikolaidou Maria M. , Gkougkoudi Evangelia , Pattichis Constantinos S. , Bamidis Panagiotis D. , Konstantinidis Stathis Th.
Published: April 2024

Virtual reality has long existed, but its wider adoption in education is recent. Studies informed by theoretical underpinned co-creation frameworks and utilization of theoretical informed evaluations are scarce in literature. Thus, this study internationally evaluated the efficacy of three virtual reality reusable e-resources (VRReRs), co-created based on the ASPIRE framework, for teaching clinical skills to university students. The study followed a mixed-methods approach, combining SUS, SUS Presence Questionnaire, TAM, and UTAUT2 with a focus group discussion. Additionally, for one VRReR, a quantitative pre/post evaluation of knowledge and comparison with lecture notes followed. Results demonstrated moderately to highly usability, effectively facilitated a strong sense of presence, confidence while using them, and willingness to continue using VRReRs in the future, while increased knowledge of the learners, highlighted their effectiveness. Although some usability issues were identified, these were considered easy to address. This work evidence, in an international context, that co-created VR resources are highly acceptable and effective, similar to other types of digital or traditional resources developed through participatory inquiry paradigm. By leveraging the benefits of VR technology, VRReRs have the potential to transform and enhance the learning experience in the field of clinical skills, ultimately advancing the digitalization of higher education.
Density functional theory investigation of the contributions of π-π stacking and hydrogen bonding with water to the supramolecular aggregation interactions of model asphaltene heterocyclic compounds
Authors: Lessa Milena D. , Stoyanov Stanislav R. , de Carneiro José Walkimar M. , da Costa Leonardo M.
Published: April 2024

Context

A complex supramolecular process involving electrostatic and dispersion interactions and asphaltene aggregation is associated with detrimental petroleum deposition and scaling that pose challenges to petroleum recovery, transportation, and upgrading. The homodimers of seven heterocyclic model compounds, representative of moieties commonly found in asphaltene structures, were studied: pyridine, thiophene, furan, isoquinoline, pyrazine, thiazole, and 1,3-oxazole. The contributions of hydrogen bonding involving water bridges spanning between dimers and π-π stacking to the total interaction energy were calculated and analyzed. The distance between the planes of the aromatic rings is correlated with the π-π stacking interaction strength. All the dimerization reactions were exothermic, although not spontaneous. This was mostly modulated by the strength of the hydrogen bond of the water bridge and the π-π stacking interaction. Dimers bridged by two water molecules were more stable than those with additional water molecules or without any water molecule in the bridge. Energy decomposition analysis showed that the electrostatic and polarization components were the main stabilizing terms for the hydrogen bond interaction in the bridge, contributing at least 80% of the interaction energy in all dimers. The non-covalent interaction analysis confirmed the molecular sites that had the strongest (hydrogen bond) and weak (π-π stacking) attractive interactions. They were concentrated in the water bridge and in the plane between the aromatic rings, respectively.

Methods

The density functional ωB97X-D with a dispersion correction and the Def2-SVP basis set were employed to investigate supramolecular aggregates incorporating heterocycles dimers with 0, 1, 2, and 3 water molecules forming a stabilizing bridge connecting the monomers. The non-covalent interactions were analyzed using the NCIplot software and plotted as isosurface maps using Visual Molecular Dynamics.
Stereotactic radiosurgery for intracranial cavernous malformations of the deep-seated locations: systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Tos Salem M. , Mantziaris Georgios , Shaaban Ahmed , Sheehan Jason P.
Published: April 2024

Objective

To determine the outcomes of stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) for deep-seated (brainstem, basal ganglia, thalamus, cerebellar peduncle) intracranial cavernous malformations (ICMs).

Methods

A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed according to PRISMA and MOOSE guidelines. The main outcomes were comparing pre- and post-SRS hemorrhage rates, using the pooled risk ratios (RR) as the measure of effect. Additionally, the study assessed lesion volume changes and radiation-injury incidence.

Results

Data of 850 patients across 14 studies were included in the meta-analysis. The pooled RR of all deep-seated ICMs show a decrease in hemorrhage rate after SRS compared to pre-SRS over the total follow-up period (RR =0.13), initial 2 years (RR =0.22), and after 2 years (RR =0.07). For 9 studies that reported hemorrhage rate of the brainstem only, the pooled RR shows a decrease of hemorrhage rate after SRS compared to pre-SRS over the total follow-up period (RR =0.13), initial 2 years (RR =0.19), and after 2 years (RR =0.07). Volumetric regression was achieved in 44.25% and stability in 56.1%. The pooled incidence of symptomatic and permanent radiation injury was 9% (95% CI, 7–11) and 3% (95% CI, 0–1.9%), respectively.

Conclusion

SRS appears effective in reducing hemorrhage rates for deep-seated ICMs. The risk of symptomatic radiation injury is low. Given the high risk of surgical morbidity, SRS is a reasonable treatment option for patients with deep-seated ICMs with at least one prior hemorrhage.
Modified crayfish optimization algorithm for solving multiple engineering application problems
Authors: Jia Heming , Zhou Xuelian , Zhang Jinrui , Abualigah Laith , Yildiz Ali Riza , Hussien Abdelazim G.
Published: April 2024

Crayfish Optimization Algorithm (COA) is innovative and easy to implement, but the crayfish search efficiency decreases in the later stage of the algorithm, and the algorithm is easy to fall into local optimum. To solve these problems, this paper proposes an modified crayfish optimization algorithm (MCOA). Based on the survival habits of crayfish, MCOA proposes an environmental renewal mechanism that uses water quality factors to guide crayfish to seek a better environment. In addition, integrating a learning strategy based on ghost antagonism into MCOA enhances its ability to evade local optimality. To evaluate the performance of MCOA, tests were performed using the IEEE CEC2020 benchmark function and experiments were conducted using four constraint engineering problems and feature selection problems. For constrained engineering problems, MCOA is improved by 11.16%, 1.46%, 0.08% and 0.24%, respectively, compared with COA. For feature selection problems, the average fitness value and accuracy are improved by 55.23% and 10.85%, respectively. MCOA shows better optimization performance in solving complex spatial and practical application problems. The combination of the environment updating mechanism and the learning strategy based on ghost antagonism significantly improves the performance of MCOA. This discovery has important implications for the development of the field of optimization.

Graphical Abstract
A review of nature-inspired algorithms on single-objective optimization problems from 2019 to 2023
Authors: Rani Rekha , Jain Sarika , Garg Harish
Published: April 2024

The field of nature inspired algorithm (NIA) is a vital area of research that consistently aids in solving optimization problems. One of the metaheuristic algorithm classifications that has drawn attention from researchers in recent decades is NIA. It makes a significant contribution by addressing numerous large-scale problems and achieving the best results. This research aims to identify the optimal NIA for solving single-objective optimization problems. The NIA discovered between 2019 and 2023 is presented in this study with a brief description. About 83 distinct NIAs have been studied in this study in order to address the optimization issues. In order to accomplish this goal, we have taken into consideration eight real-world single-objective optimization problems: the 3-bar truss design problem, the rolling element bearing, the pressure vessel, the cantilever beam, the I beam, the design of a welded beam, and the design of a spring. Based on a comparative study and bibliographic analysis, we have determined that two algorithms—the flow direction algorithm, and prairie dog optimization—give us the best results and optimal solutions for all eight of the engineering problems listed. Lastly, some perspectives on the limitations, difficulties, and future course are provided. In addition to providing future research guidelines, this will assist the novice and emerging researcher in providing a more comprehensive perspective on advanced NIA.
Improving transfer learning for software cross-project defect prediction
Authors: Omondiagbe Osayande P. , Licorish Sherlock A. , MacDonell Stephen G.
Published: April 2024

Software cross-project defect prediction (CPDP) makes use of cross-project (CP) data to overcome the lack of data necessary to train well-performing software defect prediction (SDP) classifiers in the early stage of new software projects. Since the CP data (known as the source) may be different from the new project’s data (known as the target), this makes it difficult for CPDP classifiers to perform well. In particular, it is a mismatch of data distributions between source and target that creates this difficulty. Transfer learning-based CPDP classifiers are designed to minimize these distribution differences. The first Transfer learning-based CPDP classifiers treated these differences equally, thereby degrading prediction performance. To this end, recent research has the Weighted Balanced Distribution Adaptation (W-BDA) method to leverage the importance of both distribution differences to improve classification performance. Although W-BDA has been shown to improve model performance in CPDP and tackle the class imbalance by balancing the class proportion of each domain, research to date has failed to consider model performance in light of increasing target data. We provide the first investigation studying the effects of increasing the target data when leveraging the importance of both distribution differences. We extend the initial W-BDA method and call this extension the W-BDA$$\mathbf {^{+}}$$

+

method. To evaluate the effectiveness of W-BDA$$\mathbf {^{+}}$$

+

for improving CPDP performance, we conduct eight experiments on 18 projects from four datasets, where data sampling was performed with different sampling methods. Data sampling was only performed on the baseline methods and not on our proposed W-BDA$$\mathbf {^{+}}$$

+

and the original W-BDA because data sampling issues do not exist for these two methods. We evaluate our method using four complementary indicators (i.e., Balanced Accuracy, AUC, F-measure and G-Measure). Our findings reveal an average improvement of 6%, 7.5%, 10% and 12% for these four indicators when W-BDA$$\mathbf {^{+}}$$

+

is compared to the original W-BDA and five other baseline methods (for all four of the sampling methods used). Also, as the target to source ratio is increased with different sampling methods, we observe a decrease in performance for the original W-BDA, with our W-BDA$$\mathbf {^{+}}$$

+

approach outperforming the original W-BDA in most cases. Our results highlight the importance of having an awareness of the effect of the increasing availability of target data in CPDP scenarios when using a method that can handle the class imbalance problem.
Social Systems as Moral Agents: A Systems Approach to Moral Agency in Business
Authors: de Pedro J. M. L.
Published: April 2024

In the context of business, interactions between individuals generate social systems that emerge anywhere within a corporation or in its relations with external agents. These systems influence the behaviors of individuals and, as a result, the collective actions we usually attribute to corporations. Social systems thus make a difference in processes of action that are often morally evaluated by internal and external agents to the firm. Despite this relevance, social systems have not yet been the object of specific attention in the literature on moral agency in business. To fill this gap, I construct a theoretical framework based on Luhmann’s ideas on social systems and morality. In particular, I argue that morality is a phenomenon that occurs in communication, and an agent can engage in morality in three different ways (as a moral factor, an expressive moral agent, or a reflective moral agent) depending on the functions it plays in communicative interactions. Based on this framework, I argue that social systems in business can be considered moral agents of those types.
Association of Cadherin-Related Family Member 1 with Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Jiang Yong’An , Chen Peng , Zhao YangYang , Zhang Yan
Published: April 2024

The cadherin family plays a pivotal role in orchestrating synapse formation in the central nervous system. Cadherin-related family member 1 (CDHR1) is a photoreceptor-specific calmodulin belonging to the expansive cadherin superfamily. However, its role in traumatic brain injury (TBI) remains largely unknown. CDHR1 expression across various brain tissue sites was analyzed using the GSE104687 dataset. Employing a summary-data-based Mendelian Randomization (SMR) approach, integrated analyses were performed by amalgamating genome-wide association study abstracts from TBI with public data on expressed quantitative trait loci and DNA methylation QTL from both blood and diverse brain tissues. CDHR1 expression and localization in different brain tissues were meticulously delineated using western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. CDHR1 expression was consistently elevated in the TBI group compared to that in the sham group across multiple tissues. The inflammatory response emerged as a crucial biological mechanism, and pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory factors were not expressed in either group. Integrated SMR analyses encompassing both blood and brain tissues substantiated the heightened CDHR1 expression profiles, with methylation modifications emerging as potential contributing factors for increased TBI risk. This was corroborated by western blotting and immunohistochemistry, confirming augmented CDHR1 expression following TBI. This multi-omics-based genetic association study highlights the elevated TBI risk associated with CDHR1 expression coupled with putative methylation modifications. These findings provide compelling evidence for future targeted investigations and offer promising avenues for developing interventional therapies for TBI.

Graphical Abstract

Cadherin-related family member 1 as a potential risk factor for traumatic brain injury.
A multi-feedback system integrated simulation-based teacher training to scaffold pre-service teachers’ teaching skills: A phenomenological approach
Authors: Kelleci Alkan Özge , Aksoy Nuri Can , Kulaksız Taibe , Kaplan Hatice Aydan , Durmaz Büşra Nur , Özcan Mihriban , Kalkavan Bilge
Published: April 2024

Before taking full responsibility for a real classroom, pre-service teachers (PTs) can safely experience a rich learning atmosphere in a simulated virtual classroom environment and receive feedback on their lesson planning and teaching performance. This research aims to support and examine the process of structuring PTs’ teaching skills with a multi-source feedback system integrated with simulation-based teacher training (SimInTeach-FBS). A phenomenological approach was employed in order to understand the nature of PT’s experiences from a feedback system focusing on teaching skills. Seventy PTs, twelve mentor teachers (MTs), and six teacher educators (TEs) participated in the study. Various data collection tools were used to gain a deeper understanding of the participants' experiences: reflective journals, open-ended feedback forms, and observation notes. The results of the content analysis showed that teaching experience with SimInTeach-FBS raises self-awareness and improves PTs’ teaching skills. It was revealed that teaching skills were mutually structured, feedback given to the PTs multiplied the effect of the development process, and teaching experience facilitated the transfer of acquired teaching skills to real life.
Tracing the Ontological Beliefs of Norwegian Educators Concerning Technology use in Early Childhood Education and Care
Authors: Undheim Marianne , Kucirkova Natalia , Unstad Torstein , Dardanou Maria
Published: April 2024

Nested in the socio-cultural theory and the related concepts of dialogue in thinking (Mercer & Littleton, 2007) and dialogic teaching in classrooms (Mercer & Howe, 2012), this study explored knowledge and technology as dynamic meaning-making processes in Norwegian early childhood education and care (ECEC) settings. Group-reflections from thirteen Norwegian early childhood educators and their ontological beliefs concerning digital technology in ECEC were analysed with a theory-driven thematic analysis. The analysis highlights two tensions between individual and collective reasons for using digital technology in ECEC: a tension between the educators’ ontological beliefs about the need for children’s collective experiences and children’s individual use of digital technology, and another tension related to the educators’ own individual learning and collective knowledge construction about technology. We derive time as the key reason for the individual-collective tensions. Educators need time to develop good experiences with digital technology for all children, and they need time to develop their own learning, individually and collectively. Given the urgent demand to support technology use in Norwegian ECEC for young children, we underscore time constraints as a key factor influencing individual-collective tensions, impacting educators’ capacity for effective implementation and professional development.
Expressive Power and Intensional Operators
Authors: Cubides Kovacsics Pablo , Rey David
Published: April 2024

In Entities and Indices, M. J. Cresswell argued that a first-order modal language can reach the expressive power of natural-language modal discourse only if we give to the formal language a semantics with indices containing infinite possible worlds and we add to it an infinite collection of operators $${{\varvec{actually}}}_n$$

actually

n

and $$ Ref _n$$

R
e

f
n

which store and retrieve worlds. In the fourth chapter of the book, Cresswell gave a proof that the resulting intensional language, which he called $${\mathscr {L}}^*$$

L

∗

, is as expressive as an extensional variant of it, called $${\mathscr {L}}$$
L
, which has full quantification over worlds. In both linguistics and philosophy, Cresswell’s book has been viewed as offering a compelling argument for preferring extensional systems in the study of natural language. In this paper, after providing a model-theoretic definition of the relation being as expressive as that can be applied to Cresswell’s languages $${\mathscr {L}}$$
L
and $${\mathscr {L}}^*$$

L

∗

, we show that the intensional language $${\mathscr {L}}^*$$

L

∗

is not as expressive as the extensional language $${\mathscr {L}}$$
L
. This result, we claim, undermines Cresswell’s argument to the effect that English modal discourse has the power of explicit quantification over worlds. Additionally, we show that $${\mathscr {L}}^*$$

L

∗

does become as expressive as $${\mathscr {L}}$$
L
when we add Cresswell’s operator of universal modality $$\square $$
□
to $${\mathscr {L}}^*$$

L

∗

, which provides an extra amount of expressive power. Recently, I. Yanovich has advocated a view that is similar to ours in important respects. At the end of the paper we offer a short discussion of his formalism.