bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fast algorithms combining threshold-decreasing and greedy methods for maximizing constraint k-submodular functions
Authors: Niu Shuxian , Liu Qian , Zhou Yang , Li Min
Published: July 2024

In recent years, there has been significant research directed toward the maximization of [Formula: see text]-submodular functions, owing to their wide-ranging applications in fields such as social networks, sensor placement, and various other domains. The utilization of the greedy method and randomized techniques is prevalent for the design of algorithms that offer favorable performance guarantees for such problems. However, these approaches adopt a single-item selection strategy at each iteration, leading to high query complexity. The Threshold-Decreasing Algorithm is conceptualized to address this issue by choosing multiple items using a predefined threshold value, and in case no items remain, the threshold is decremented by a specified factor. This approach effectively reduces complexity. In this paper, we merge the principles of the threshold-decreasing and greedy methods to enhance the complexity of constrained [Formula: see text]-submodular maximization problems, thereby achieving near-optimal approximation ratios.
Summary of the 1st International Flaky Test Workshop (FTW 2024)
Authors: Parry Owain , Gruber Martin , Henderson Tim A. D. , McMinn Phil , Fraser Gordon
Published: July 2024

Test flakiness refers to the non-deterministic behavior of software tests. A flaky test may pass or fail without changes to the test case code or the code under test. This leads to decreased developer productivity, expensive and excessive retrying of tests, bugs masked or missed by persistent flakiness, and loss of developer trust in test suites. Despite the problem receiving increasing attention from both practitioners and researchers over the past decade, no workshop dedicated to flakiness had been established.
The Implication Problem for Functional Dependencies and Variants of Marginal Distribution Equivalences
Authors: Hirvonen Minna
Published: July 2024

We study functional dependencies together with two different probabilistic dependency notions: unary marginal identity and unary marginal distribution equivalence. A unary marginal identity states that two variables

\(x\)

and

\(y\)

are identically distributed. A unary marginal distribution equivalence states that the multiset consisting of the marginal probabilities of all the values for variable

\(x\)

is the same as the corresponding multiset for

\(y\)

. We present a sound and complete axiomatization for the class of these dependencies and show that it has Armstrong relations. The axiomatization is infinite, but we show that there can be no finite axiomatization. The implication problem for the subclass that contains only functional dependencies and unary marginal identities can be simulated with functional dependencies and unary inclusion atoms, and therefore the problem is in polynomial-time. This complexity bound also holds in the case of the full class, which we show by constructing a polynomial-time algorithm.
WC-SBERT: Zero-Shot Topic Classification Using SBERT and Light Self-Training on Wikipedia Categories
Authors: Chi Te-Yu , Jang Jyh-Shing Roger
Published: July 2024

In natural language processing (NLP), zero-shot topic classification requires machines to understand the contextual meanings of texts in a downstream task without using the corresponding labeled texts for training, which is highly desirable for various applications. In this article, we propose a novel approach to construct a zero-shot task-specific model called WC-SBERT with satisfactory performance. The proposed approach is highly efficient since it uses light self-training requiring target labels (target class names of downstream tasks) only, which is distinct from other research that uses both the target labels and the unlabeled texts for training. In particular, during the pre-training stage, WC-SBERT uses contrastive learning with multiple negative ranking losses to construct the pre-trained model based on the similarity between Wiki categories. For the self-training stage, online contrastive loss is utilized to reduce the distance between a target label and Wiki categories of similar Wiki pages to the label. Experimental results indicate that compared to existing self-training models, WC-SBERT achieves rapid inference on approximately 6.45 million Wiki text entries by utilizing pre-stored Wikipedia text embeddings, significantly reducing inference time per sample by a factor of 2,746 to 16,746. During the fine-tuning step, the time required for each sample is reduced by a factor of 23–67. Overall, the total training time shows a maximum reduction of 27.5 times across different datasets. Most importantly, our model has achieved state-of-the-art (SOTA) accuracy on two of the three commonly used datasets for evaluating zero-shot classification, namely the AG News (0.84) and Yahoo! Answers (0.64) datasets. The code for WC-SBERT is publicly available on GitHub,

1

and the dataset can also be accessed on Hugging Face.

2
Emerging Designs and Applications for Biomembrane Biosensors
Authors: Selivanovitch Ekaterina , Ostwalt Alexis , Chao Zhongmou , Daniel Susan
Published: July 2024

Nature has inspired the development of biomimetic membrane sensors in which the functionalities of biological molecules, such as proteins and lipids, are harnessed for sensing applications. This review provides an overview of the recent developments for biomembrane sensors compatible with either bulk or planar sensing applications, namely using lipid vesicles or supported lipid bilayers, respectively. We first describe the individual components required for these sensing platforms and the design principles that are considered when constructing them, and we segue into recent applications being implemented across multiple fields. Our goal for this review is to illustrate the versatility of nature's biomembrane toolbox and simultaneously highlight how biosensor platforms can be enhanced by harnessing it.
Methods for Quantifying Interactions Between Groundwater and Surface Water
Authors: Ma Rui , Chen Kewei , Andrews Charles B. , Loheide Steven P. , Sawyer Audrey H. , Jiang Xue , Briggs Martin A. , Cook Peter G. , Gorelick Steven M. , Prommer Henning , Scanlon Bridget R. , Guo Zhilin , Zheng Chunmiao
Published: July 2024

Driven by the need for integrated management of groundwater (GW) and surface water (SW), quantification of GW–SW interactions and associated contaminant transport has become increasingly important. This is due to their substantial impact on water quantity and quality. In this review, we provide an overview of the methods developed over the past several decades to investigate GW–SW interactions. These methods include geophysical, hydrometric, and tracer techniques, as well as various modeling approaches. Different methods reveal valuable information on GW–SW interactions at different scales with their respective advantages and limitations. Interpreting data from these techniques can be challenging due to factors like scale effects, heterogeneous hydrogeological conditions, sediment variability, and complex spatiotemporal connections between GW and SW. To facilitate the selection of appropriate methods for specific sites, we discuss the strengths, weaknesses, and challenges of each technique, and we offer perspectives on knowledge gaps in the current science.
Effect of Li Doping on Structural, Optical, and Optoelectrical Characteristics of ZnSnO3 Thin Films Prepared by Nebulizer Spray Pyrolysis
Authors: Alkhamisi Manal M.
Published: July 2024

In this work, ZnSnO3 (ZTO3) and Li-doped ZTO3 thin films were synthesized on glass slides by a cost-effective nebulizer spray pyrolysis procedure. The X-ray diffraction analysis revealed that the ZTO3 and Li-doped ZTO3 thin films possessed a rhombohedral structure. The structural indices (grain size, dislocation density, lattice strain) of the ZTO3 and Li-doped ZTO3 thin films were computed. The morphology characteristics of the ZTO3 and Li-doped ZTO3 thin films were observed by field emission scanning electron microscopy. The inspected films display uniform and homogeneous surfaces. The optical transmittance, T, and reflectance, R, of the ZTO3 and Li-doped ZTO3 thin films were recorded using a double-beam spectrophotometer to investigate the optical characteristics of these layers. The refractive index of the ZTO3 and Li-doped ZTO3 thin films was enhanced via the Li content increase. Moreover, Tauc’s plots demonstrated that the energy gap of the ZTO3 and Li-doped ZTO3 thin films was reduced from 3.85 eV to 3.08 eV by boosting the Li doping content. Moreover, the increase in Li content produces an enhancement in the optoelectrical indices (optical resistivity, optical carrier concentration, optical mobility, plasms frequency, and optical conductivity) of the ZTO3 and Li-doped ZTO3 thin films. The nonlinear optical indices of the ZTO3 and Li-doped ZTO3 thin films were deduced, and it was noted that Li content boosted the nonlinear optical indices of these layers. All the ZTO3 and Li-doped ZTO3 thin films displayed n-type semiconducting properties by the hot probe equipment.
Construction and Validation of an Oxidative Phosphorylation Signature in High‐Grade Glioma and Potential Inhibitors Screening
Authors: Lu Hanwen , Zhao Wenpeng , Zhang Bingchang , Xie Yuanyuan , He Jiawei , Yang Huiying , Wang Zhanxiang
Published: July 2024

Glioma is a devastating type of brain tumor with high morbidity and mortality rates. Despite current treatment options, the prognosis for glioma patients remains poor. Metabolic reprograming has emerged as a crucial aspect of tumorigenesis, and the oxidative phosphorylation pathway has received increasing attention as a promising target for cancer treatment. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of transcriptome data to identify differentially expressed genes related to oxidative phosphorylation in glioma. Based on these findings, we developed the first oxidative phosphorylation‐based prognostic and diagnostic signatures and investigated the methylation level of oxidative phosphorylation‐related genes, constructed miRNA–mRNA regulatory networks, and screened potential oxidative phosphorylation pathway inhibitors. Moreover, we analyzed the immune cell infiltration pattern based on oxidative phosphorylation‐related genes’ expression and found that the high‐oxidative phosphorylation group had more inhibitory immune cell infiltration. Overall, this study provides novel insights into the possible molecular mechanisms of oxidative phosphorylation in glioma progression and identifies potential targets for future glioma therapy.
Problem With Critical Sobolev Exponent and With Potential on SN
Authors: Refai Walid , Yazidi Habib
Published: July 2024

We consider the equation in D’, u = 0 on D′, where D′ is a geodesic ball with radius θ1, centered at the north pole, on , N ≥ 4, and q is a positive continuous function. We prove the existence of solutions that depends only on the behavior of the potential q near its minima.
Analytical Solution and Energy Flow Analysis of a Vertical Vibration‐Controlled System Using the Nonlinear Energy Sink
Authors: Lu Decheng , Chen Peng , Zhou Dingsong
Published: July 2024

The nonlinear energy sink (NES) has drawn increasing research attention in recent years. In this study, we investigated a novel disc spring‐based vertical NES device capable of counterbalancing payload gravity and providing a combination of linear and cubic restoring forces. The vertical NES device is used to mitigate vibration responses in vertically flexible structures caused by human or machinery‐induced actions. To simplify the NES controlled system, a two‐degree‐of‐freedom model was used to account for harmonic forces acting on the primary structure. Using the complexification‐averaging (CX‐A) method, we obtained the frequency‐amplitude solution and subsequently derived the force transmissibility (Tf). Parametric comparisons between the NES and traditional tuned mass damper (TMD)‐controlled systems were performed by comparing the Tf curves and numerically verifying the theoretical solutions. Results confirmed the accuracy of the theoretical force transmissibility solutions and affirmed the advantage of the NES system by overcoming the limited operating frequency bandwidth of the traditional TMD system. The inclusion of a linear stiffness term in an NES system has been shown to enhance the vibration control performance within the resonant frequency bandwidth. In addition, the time history energy analysis for the NES and TMD systems was conducted. The energy flow analysis elucidated the broad operating bandwidth of the NES system. This finding suggests that the vibration energy flow to the attachment in the NES system is irreversible, thereby preventing amplification of the response in the primary structure, even when the system is mistuned.
Metadevice for Electromagnetic Cloaking With Monitors in Complex Space
Authors: Shao Junjie , Sang Yuehai , Wang Ren , Xie Jun , Xu Xiaolong , Lang Junjie , Zhou Ziwei , Wang Bing-Zhong
Published: July 2024

Electromagnetic cloaking with monitors within waveguide plays a pivotal role in minimizing the risk of detection while intercepting sensitive information which holds immense potential in both military and communication sectors. However, the integration of electromagnetic cloaking and monitoring is challenging and even more difficult to realize in waveguide. To address these challenges, we propose a metadevice design method based on the internal multiport method (IMPM) for ensuring effective monitoring while maintaining electromagnetic cloaking in the complex environments of waveguide systems. Strategically adjusting the distribution and arrangement of auxiliary scatterers in proximity to the monitoring apparatus can flexibly regulate the behavior of electromagnetic wave propagation to enhance the cloaking performance of metadevice. The cases presented in the paper validate the designed metadevices that are capable of achieving both cloaking and monitoring for monitors within waveguide systems.
Clostridium paraputrificum Bacteremia and Ectopic Ileal Varices in Underlying Chronic Portal and Superior Mesenteric Vein Thrombosis: Report of a Rare Case
Authors: Smanis Grigorios , Avgoustou Eirini , Papadopoulos Ioannis , Papadopoulos Antonios , Athanasakos Athanasios , Athanasiadis Elias , Vassilara Foula
Published: July 2024

Ischemic bowel disease is considered a high‐risk factor for infection from anaerobic bacteria, as the ischemic bowel is the perfect ground for their development. Herein, we present the case of an advance stage colon cancer patient with a rare cause of gastrointestinal bleeding and bacteremia due to Clostridium paraputrificum, a rare anaerobic Gram‐positive bacterium. The patient had presented with several episodes of hematochezia in the context of chronic superior mesenteric‐portal vein tumor thrombosis and rupture of ectopic varices, and the bacteremia was an unexpected complication of the bowel ischemia due to a combination of arterial ischemia and venous congestion.
Supplementary Figure 5 from Stratification to Neoadjuvant Radiotherapy in Rectal Cancer by Regimen and Transcriptional Signatures
Authors: Mahmood Umair , Blake Andrew , Rathee Sanjay , Samuel Leslie , Murray Graeme , Sebag-Montefiore David , Gollins Simon , West Nicholas P. , Begum Rubina , Bach Simon P. , Richman Susan D. , Quirke Phil , Redmond Keara L. , Salto-Tellez Manuel , Koelzer Viktor H. , Leedham Simon J. , Tomlinson Ian , Dunne Philip D. , Buffa Francesca M. , Maughan Tim S. , Domingo Enric
Published: July 2024

Supplementary Figure 5
Supplementary Figure 4 from Stratification to Neoadjuvant Radiotherapy in Rectal Cancer by Regimen and Transcriptional Signatures
Authors: Mahmood Umair , Blake Andrew , Rathee Sanjay , Samuel Leslie , Murray Graeme , Sebag-Montefiore David , Gollins Simon , West Nicholas P. , Begum Rubina , Bach Simon P. , Richman Susan D. , Quirke Phil , Redmond Keara L. , Salto-Tellez Manuel , Koelzer Viktor H. , Leedham Simon J. , Tomlinson Ian , Dunne Philip D. , Buffa Francesca M. , Maughan Tim S. , Domingo Enric
Published: July 2024

Supplementary Figure 4
Stratification to Neoadjuvant Radiotherapy in Rectal Cancer by Regimen and Transcriptional Signatures
Authors: Mahmood Umair , Blake Andrew , Rathee Sanjay , Samuel Leslie , Murray Graeme , Sebag-Montefiore David , Gollins Simon , West Nicholas P. , Begum Rubina , Bach Simon P. , Richman Susan D. , Quirke Phil , Redmond Keara L. , Salto-Tellez Manuel , Koelzer Viktor H. , Leedham Simon J. , Tomlinson Ian , Dunne Philip D. , Buffa Francesca M. ,   S:CORT consortium, Maughan Tim S. , Domingo Enric
Published: July 2024

Response to neoadjuvant radiotherapy (RT) in rectal cancer has been associated with immune and stromal features that are captured by transcriptional signatures. However, how such associations perform across different chemoradiotherapy regimens and within individual consensus molecular subtypes (CMS) and how they affect survival remain unclear. In this study, gene expression and clinical data of pretreatment biopsies from nine cohorts of primary rectal tumors were combined (N = 826). Exploratory analyses were done with transcriptomic signatures for the endpoint of pathologic complete response (pCR), considering treatment regimen or CMS subtype. Relevant findings were tested for overall survival and recurrence-free survival. Immune and stromal signatures were strongly associated with pCR and lack of pCR, respectively, in RT and capecitabine (Cap)/5-fluorouracil (5FU)–treated patients (N = 387), in which the radiosensitivity signature (RSS) showed the strongest association. Upon addition of oxaliplatin (Ox; N = 123), stromal signatures switched direction and showed higher chances to achieve pCR than without Ox (p for interaction 0.02). Among Cap/5FU patients, most signatures performed similarly across CMS subtypes, except cytotoxic lymphocytes that were associated with pCR in CMS1 and CMS4 cases compared with other CMS subtypes (p for interaction 0.04). The only variables associated with survival were pCR and RSS. Although the frequency of pCR across different chemoradiation regimens is relatively similar, our data suggest that response rates may differ depending on the biological landscape of rectal cancer. Response to neoadjuvant RT in stroma-rich tumors may potentially be improved by the addition of Ox. RSS in preoperative biopsies provides predictive information for response specifically to neoadjuvant RT with 5FU.

Significance:

Rectal cancers with stromal features may respond better to RT and 5FU/Cap with the addition of Ox. Within patients not treated with Ox, high levels of cytotoxic lymphocytes associate with response only in immune and stromal tumors. Our analyses provide biological insights about the outcome by different radiotherapy regimens in rectal cancer.
Overview Green Banking at The Islamic Bank of Indonesia: Green Practicess, Green Percieved Value, Green Trust And Green Satisfaction Booster Loyality And Profitability
Authors: Hajar Elvira Sitna
Published: July 2024

In the midst of global warming issues, environmental damage also involves economic and social issues, the banking world, especially Islamic banking, can be one of the contributors in encouraging environmentally friendly practices. One of them is by integrating green values in lending practices, investment and green technology called Green Banking. By using a literature review, it can be seen that green banking practices, especially in Islamic banking, have been carried out even though they have not been maximized. Green banking practices in Islamic banking can be a booster in increasing customer loyalty which leads to increased profitability of Islamic banks. By using several green banking indicators, it is possible to measure the extent of the achievement achieved by Islamic banking.
Grading of Aortic Valve Calcification Severity and Risk Stratification in Aortic Stenosis
Authors: Tastet Lionel , Ali Mulham , Pibarot Philippe , Capoulade Romain , Øvrehus Kristian Altern , Arsenault Marie , Haujir Amal , Bédard Élisabeth , Diederichsen Axel Cosmus Pyndt , Dahl Jordi S. , Clavel Marie‐Annick
Published: July 2024

Background

Thresholds of aortic valve calcification (AVC) to define hemodynamically moderate aortic stenosis (AS) from mild are lacking. We aimed to establish a novel grading classification of AVC as quantified by computed tomography and determine its prognostic value.

Methods and Results

This study included 915 patients with at least mild AS (mean age 70±12 years, 30% women) from a multicenter prospective registry. All patients underwent Doppler‐echocardiography and noncontrast computed tomography within 3 months. Primary end point was the occurrence of all‐cause death. Receiver operating characteristic curves analyses were used to determine the sensitivity and specificity of sex‐specific thresholds of AVC to identify hemodynamically moderate AS. Optimal thresholds (ie, with best sensitivity/specificity) of AVC to distinguish moderate (aortic valve area 1.0–1.5 cm
2
and mean gradient 20–39 mm Hg) from mild AS (aortic valve area >1.5 cm
2
and mean gradient <20 mm Hg) were AVC ≥360 arbitrary units in women and ≥1037 arbitrary units in men. Based on the guidelines' thresholds for severe AS and the new thresholds in our study for moderate AS, 312 (34%) patients had mild, 253 (28%) moderate, and 350 (38%) severe AVC. During a mean follow‐up of 5.6±3.9 years, 183 (27%) deaths occurred. In Cox multivariable models, AVC remained associated with an increased risk of death (adjusted hazard ratio per grade increase, 1.94 [95% CI, 1.53–2.56];
P
<0.001).

Conclusions

A novel grading classification of anatomic AS severity based on sex‐specific thresholds of AVC provides significant prognostic value for predicting mortality. These findings support the complementarity of computed tomography‐calcium scoring to Doppler‐echocardiography to corroborate AS severity and enhance risk stratification in patients with AS.
Inositol 1,4,5‐Trisphosphate Receptors Regulate Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Proliferation and Neointima Formation in Mice
Authors: Huang Fang , Zhang Fei , Huang Lei , Zhu Xiangbin , Huang Can , Li Na , Da Qingen , Huang Yu , Yang Huihua , Wang Hong , Zhao Lingyun , Lin Qingsong , Chen Zee , Xu Junjie , Liu Jie , Ren Mingming , Wang Yan , Han Zhen , Ouyang Kunfu
Published: July 2024

Background

Vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) proliferation is involved in many types of arterial diseases, including neointima hyperplasia, in which Ca
2+
has been recognized as a key player. However, the physiological role of Ca
2+
release via inositol 1,4,5‐trisphosphate receptors (IP
3
Rs) from endoplasmic reticulum in regulating VSMC proliferation has not been well determined.

Methods and Results

Both in vitro cell culture models and in vivo mouse models were generated to investigate the role of IP
3
Rs in regulating VSMC proliferation. Expression of all 3 IP
3
R subtypes was increased in cultured VSMCs upon platelet‐derived growth factor‐BB and FBS stimulation as well as in the left carotid artery undergoing intimal thickening after vascular occlusion. Genetic ablation of all 3 IP
3
R subtypes abolished endoplasmic reticulum Ca
2+
release in cultured VSMCs, significantly reduced cell proliferation induced by platelet‐derived growth factor‐BB and FBS stimulation, and also decreased cell migration of VSMCs. Furthermore, smooth muscle–specific deletion of all IP
3
R subtypes in adult mice dramatically attenuated neointima formation induced by left carotid artery ligation, accompanied by significant decreases in cell proliferation and matrix metalloproteinase‐9 expression in injured vessels. Mechanistically, IP
3
R‐mediated Ca
2+
release may activate cAMP response element–binding protein, a key player in controlling VSMC proliferation, via Ca
2+
/calmodulin‐dependent protein kinase II and Akt. Loss of IP
3
Rs suppressed cAMP response element–binding protein phosphorylation at Ser133 in both cultured VSMCs and injured vessels, whereas application of Ca
2+
permeable ionophore, ionomycin, can reverse cAMP response element–binding protein phosphorylation in IP
3
R triple knockout VSMCs.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrated an essential role of IP
3
R‐mediated Ca
2+
release from endoplasmic reticulum in regulating cAMP response element–binding protein activation, VSMC proliferation, and neointima formation in mouse arteries.
Psychological Aspects of Pedagogical Practice. To the 100th Anniversary of Nina F. Talyzina
Authors: Stepanova Marina A.
Published: July 2024

Background. The article is dedicated to the 100th anniversary of the birth of Nina Fedorovna Talyzina (1923–2018) — a famous Russian (Soviet) psychologist, specialist in the field of didactics and psychology of teaching and learning, one of the students and followers of P.Y. Galperin, author of the activity theory of learning, creator of the Department of Pedagogy and Educational Psychology at the Faculty of Psychology of Lomonosov Moscow State University Objectives. The focus of the article is on the restoration of the scientific biography of N.F. Talyzina as well as on the identification of the main directions of research carried out under her leadership and with her direct participation. Methods. In this historical and psychological research, the oral and written speeches of N.F. Talyzina, as well as biographical and archival materials were analysed. Results. The article presents the main stages of the scientific biography of N.F. Talyzina. N.F. Talyzina completed her Cand. Sci. (Psychology) thesis on the topic “Inferences in solving geometric problems” under the supervision of P.A. Shevarev at the graduate school of the Research Institute of Psychology of the Academy of Pedagogical Sciences of the RSFSR (now PI RAO). After defending the thesis in 1950 she began working at Moscow University. At Lomonosov Moscow State University N.F. Talyzina made her way from assistant (1950-1952), senior lecturer (1952–1960), associate professor (1960–1963) of the Department of Psychology of the Faculty of Philosophy to the head of the Department of Pedagogy of Humanities Faculties (1963–1966), and then head of the Department of Pedagogy and Educational Psychology (1966–1995) of the Faculty of Psychology created in 1966. In 1970, N.F. Talyzina defended her doctoral dissertation on the topic “Psychological foundations of managing knowledge acquisition.” In 1989, on the initiative of N.F. Talyzina a Training Center for retraining university employees in the field of psychological and pedagogical foundations of the educational process in higher education at the Faculty of Psychology of Lomonosov Moscow State University was created. In 1995 N.F. Talyzina left the post of the head of the department and for 20 years until 2015 she remained a professor at the above-mentioned Training Center. From 2015 until the end of her life N.F. Talyzina was a leading researcher at the Laboratory of Educational Psychology at the Department of Psychology of Education and Pedagogy. Conclusions. The ideas about the controlled formation of concepts developed by N.F. Talyzina not only received experimental testing, but were also used in organizing school and vocational instruction.
Ophiocordyceps taiwanensis sp. nov. (Ophiocordycipitaceae, Hypocreales) on Odontotermes formosanus (Termitidae, Blattodea)
Authors: SAMARAKOON MILAN C. , HSU KUN-CHIN , CHIU CHUN I , CHEN CHI-YU , LI HOU-FENG , HAITUK SUKANYA
Published: July 2024

Ophiocordyceps species are found worldwide, with their greatest diversity occurring in tropical and subtropical regions, particularly in Southeast Asia. In June 2020, during a study conducted in Taiwan, stromata associated with dead termite alates (or winged termites) (Odontotermes formosanus) were collected and characterized. This study identified a unique sexual morph, Ophiocordyceps taiwanensis sp. nov., distinguished by its asci and ascospore morphology compared to the majority of Ophiocordyceps species. Our new collection exhibits similarities to O. bispora (≡ Cordycepioideus bisporus), particularly in having asci with two ascospores. However, it differs in the shape of its perithecia, which are subglobose to ovoid, and in possessing smaller, aseptate ascospores. Phylogenetic analysis using various gene combinations in both preliminary and final LSU-ITS-SSU-TEF1-RPB2 sequence alignments revealed that our new isolates form a clade closely related to O. bispora KVL 606, supported by 88% MP/100% ML/1.00 PP BI statistical support. Based on its distinct morphology and phylogenetic placement, we propose O. taiwanensis as a new species, representing the first recorded instance of an Ophiocordyceps species associated with termites in Taiwan.
Clematis serrana (Ranunculaceae), a new endemic species to the Atlantic Forest highlands in Southern Brazil
Authors: PIOVESANI WILLIAN SOUZA , FERREIRA PRISCILA PORTO ALEGRE , SEGER GUILHERME DUBAL DOS SANTOS
Published: July 2024

A new species of Clematis (Ranunculaceae) from the Southern Brazilian Plateau is described here. The species shares similarities with C. denticulata and C. ulbrichiana, but can be distinguished mainly by the staminate partial inflorescences in compressed cymes (false whorls), pyriform staminate flower buds, and fewer carpels. Along with the description, we provide a preliminary extinction risk assessment and photographic plates for the new species. Identification keys for the species in the Atlantic Forest Biome are also presented.
A new coral reef mantis shrimp from the northwestern Indian Ocean, Gonodactylellus celosinus sp. nov. (Crustacea: Stomatopoda: Gonodactylidae)
Authors: AHYONG SHANE T.
Published: July 2024

The Indian Ocean coral reef mantis shrimp, Gonodactylellus demanii (Henderson, 1893), described from the Gulf of Mannar, southeastern India, was thought to range widely, from the northwestern Indian Ocean to the eastern Bay of Bengal, Burma. Reevaluation of G. demanii from throughout its purported range revealed that what was thought to be that species in the northwestern Indian Ocean represents a new species, formally named herein, Gonodactylellus celosinus sp. nov. Gonodactylellus demanii sensu stricto is now known only from the Bay of Bengal (southeastern India to Burma). The taxonomic issues within G. demanii have gone unnoticed until now because the original account was inadequate for recognition of the species and subsequent revisions did not revisit the type or topotypic material. Gonodactylellus demanii is figured alongside G. celosinus sp. nov. to facilitate their recognition.
A new Malthinus (Coleoptera: Cantharidae: Malthininae) adds to the unrivaled diversity of arthropods found in Eocene Baltic amber
Authors: PANKOWSKI MADELINE V.
Published: July 2024

A new species of soldier beetle (Cantharidae) from Eocene Baltic amber, Malthinus fabriziofantii sp. nov., is described and illustrated. This is yet one more species of Cantharidae documented from the Baltic deposit, a rich accumulation of amber that provides an unparalleled view of Eocene arthropods with more than 3,000 species discovered to date. Creating this remarkable deposit was a favorable blend of environmental elements that included a humid, warm climate; an assortment of different habitats; and conifer trees exuding profuse amounts of resin that trapped hundreds of thousands of insects, arachnids, and other small organisms that would become amber inclusions.
The genus Euhybus Coquillett (Diptera: Hybotinae) from China, with descriptions of five new species
Authors: LI MEILIN , WANG JINGYU , YANG DING
Published: July 2024

Twelve species of the genus Euhybus are now known from Chine, including five species described as new to science: Euhybus basiflavus sp. nov., E. furcatus sp. nov., E. tenuifemur sp. nov., E. wuyishananus sp. nov. and E. yunnanensis sp. nov. All species are provided with diagnoses and distributions. Five new species are also provided with detailed descriptions and color illustrations. A distribution map and an identification key to all Chinese species of Euhybus are also provided.
The two southernmost species of the Andean genus Acrographinotus Holmgren (Arachnida, Opiliones, Gonyleptidae) described from Bolivia and Argentina
Authors: ACOSTA LUIS E.
Published: July 2024

Two new species of the genus Acrographinotus (Opiliones, Laniatores, Gonyleptidae) are described from protected areas placed on sub-Andean ranges: Acrographinotus tariquiae sp. nov. from Tariquía National Reserve, southern Bolivia, and A. calilegua sp. nov. from Calilegua National Park, northwestern Argentina. They represent the southernmost representatives, and in the case of A. calilegua sp. nov., the lowest altitudinal record of this wide-ranged Andean genus. Acrographinotus tariquiae sp. nov. is compared with its most similar congeners, A. erectispina (type species) and A. niawpaq, from which it differs by the armature of trochanter IV, femur IV and ventral anal plate of the male. Differences between A. calilegua sp. nov. and A. tariquiae sp. nov., especially considering small-sized and β-type males of the latter, are detailed. The genus diagnosis is updated. A key to identify males of the nine confirmed nominal Acrographinotus species is provided for the first time.
Comparism of Response Surface Methodology (RSM) and Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference Systems (ANFIS) in Optimisation of Soybean Soapstock Biodiesel Production
Authors: Mbah Chinedu , Nwafulugo Francisca , Ezetoha Njideka
Published: July 2024

Soybean soapstock (SS), a lipid rich by-product of soybean oil production is a promising feedstock for the production ofbiodiesel due to its availability and affordability. In the esterification and transesterification reactions involving soyabeansoapstock, sodium hydroxide, methanol and n-hexane were used as catalyst, solvent and co-solvent respectively. The physico-chemical properties of the biodiesel obtained were determinedusing the Association of Analytical Chemist (AOAC) and American Society of Testing Materials (ASTM) methods. The esterification and transesterification reactions were optimised using both response surface methodology (RSM) under design expert 7.0 platform and Particle swarm technique in ANFIS (ANFIS-PSO) using the MATLAB software. The optimized acid value from the esterification reaction using RSM and ANFIS-PSO were 4.956 and 1.488 while the yield obtained were 97.29% and 99.91%respectively with ANFIS-PSO proving to be the better optimization technique in both cases. Comparison plots made for both reactions shows the ANFIS-PSO curve mirroring the experimental and thus signifying a closer trend when compared to the RSM curve. The suitability of the ANFIS-PSO prediction was further highlighted by the error analysis carried out on both techniques. The Residual sum of squares (RSS), Mean absolute error (MAE), Root mean square error (RMSE), Correlation coefficient (R), Coefficient of determination (R2), Adjusted R2, Absolute average deviation (AAD) and Mean absolute percent error (MAPE) values for the ANFIS-PSO predictions in both reactions were better than the RSM predictions. It can thus be concluded that soybean soapstock is a viable feedstock for biodiesel production and ANFIS-PSO is a more efficient optimization technique when compared with RSM in esterification and transesterification of soybean soapstock.
Organic Manure as Rearing Substrates for Red Worms (Eisenia fetida): Effects on Chemical Composition and Growth Performance
Authors: Zephania Maziku , Munubi Renalda , Mwandya Augustine
Published: July 2024

Red worms (Eisenia fetida) can convert biowaste and by-products into body mass and become high in protein and lipid content. However, the type of growth media used affects both larval body composition and growth performance. Using recycled organic materials from chicken manure (CM), cow dung manure (CDM) and rabbit manure (RM), the present study evaluated the production of red worms that could be used as a substitute protein source for fish meals. Two experiments were conducted, the first experiment tested the compatibility of each organic manure when mixed with soil separately, whereas the second experiment combined the three organic manures with a fixed amount of soil. The study was conducted for 60 days. The findings showed that red worms reared on 100 % CM had a significantly higher body weight (19.27 ± 0.9 g) followed by those reared on 100 % CDM and 75% RM, whereas red worms reared on 100 % RM had the lowest body weight (4.9 ± 0.1 g). A combination of 20% CM + 40% CDM + 20% RM + 20% Soil supported significantly higher body weight of red worms (24.9 ± 1.1 g), while the lowest value of body weight (5.1 ± 0.2 g) was in a combination of 20% CM + 0% CDM + 60% RM + 20% Soil). Furthermore, the results revealed that red worms reared on 100 % CDM without soil as waste substrate had the highest crude protein (73.28% DM) compared to red worms reared on other types of substrates. The study suggests the potential of reusing organic manure such as chicken and cow dung manure at different inclusion levels in the production of red worms.
Empowering Smallholder Sorghum Farmers for Resilience: Lessons from a Community-Based Seed Multiplication Scheme in West Hararghe, Ethiopia
Authors: Altaye Solomon , Nida Habte , Sori Derara , Begna Temesgen , Teressa Temesgen , Gichile Hailu , Getahun Ashenafi , Mohammed Muktar
Published: July 2024

Sorghum is a vital crop for food security in Ethiopia. Sorghum landraces are particularly crucial in crop-livestock mixed farming, however, the extended growing periods (6-8 months) required for these landraces make the crop vulnerable to recurrent drought events associated with delayed rain, dry spells, and drought during critical stages. The landraces are usually planted in March or April depending on the onset of rainfall and harvested around November but often fail due to drought. In such situations, early-maturing improved varieties are an option for farmers but access to seeds of these improved varieties is a challenge. Unlike the landraces, the improved early maturing varieties are planted around the first weeks of July and harvested in November. The formal seed system multiplies only a limited amount of improved sorghum seed, which is rarely available to smallholder sorghum growers, mostly as part of a government package for targeted programs. Therefore, a community-based seed multiplication (CBSM) scheme was introduced to address seed shortages among smallholder sorghum farmers. After a successful experiment in 2015 aimed at enhancing seed multiplication by smallholder sorghum farmers, the process was further implemented on a larger scale using the CBSM scheme. Between 2016 and 2017, three CBSM farmer groups consisting of a total of 56 participants were established in three districts of West Hararghe, Ethiopia. Seeds of two early-maturing and drought-tolerant improved sorghum varieties (Dekeba and Melkam) were multiplied on a total area of 49.58 hectares, resulting in 215.6 tons of certified seeds. The study's findings indicate that the CBSM scheme enhanced smallholder farmers' sorghum yields, incomes, and climate resilience by providing high-quality seeds, expanding access to improved seeds, improving crop quality, and empowering communities to manage seed distribution. Partnerships with local organizations and government agencies were vital for success, allowing the scheme to reach more farmers in different regions. The scheme proved successful for smallholder sorghum growers in Ethiopia's dry lowlands, offering lessons applicable to similar challenges elsewhere, and promoting sustainable solutions for smallholder farmers.
Assessment of Soil Structural Quality Under Area Closure and Open Grazing Land in Hidabu Abote District, North Shewa Zone, Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia
Authors: Bedada Endale , Esimo Feto
Published: July 2024

The experiment was conducted at Sire Morise kebele, Hidabu Abote district, to assess soil structural quality of different land management system (area closure and open grazing land). In this study, area closure land management practice was compared with open grazing land management practice in similar slope positions for soil structural quality build up. Soil samples were collected from both land management system at three slope position with three times replication. Totally 36 undisturbed soil blocks were collected from both land management system at 10 and 20 cm sampling depths. The finding of the study showed that the average value of volumetric moisture content and saturated hydraulic conductivity of soil were greater at area closure than open grazing land management system and also higher at bottom slope position than middle and upper slope position. The mean value of air-filled porosity and bulk density were lower at both area closure management practices and bottom slope position. Bulk density, volumetric soil moisture content and saturated hydraulic conductivity at 20 cm sampling depth were shows significantly different with respect to management practices. According to visual assessment in the field, soil physical quality was unfavourable in open grazing land management system and upper part of landscape position soils and the visual assessment scores showed that the soils under area closure had a good soil structural quality. There were strong relations among the three visual field assessment methods and also between visual assessment methods and laboratory determined soil properties of both land management system. In general, the result of the study showed that physical and structural quality of soil in area closure was improved due to good land management system. Based on the result of study it can be conclude that area closure improves soil physical and soil structural qualities and from the technical point of view, open grazing lands in hilly area should be changed to area closure before soil properties and soil nutrient contents are exhausted more.
Performance of Simplified Damage-Based Concrete Models in Seismic Applications
Authors: Lopez Jesus , Ramirez Bernardo , Pettit Clayton , Cruz-Noguez Carlos
Published: July 2024

Significant progress in the finite-element (FE) modeling at the member-level of reinforced-concrete (RC) structures under seismic excitation has been achieved in the past decades; however, reliable and accurate analysis models for full-scale 3D system-level RC structures validated with experimental data are scarce. As the development of a complete nonlinear model is expensive and time consuming, simpler models, typically elastic or lumped-plastic in nature, are employed in practice with additional provisions prescribed to account for nonlinear behavior. Depending on the assumptions made by the analyst, there may be substantial uncertainties related to the response of a complete structure. Capturing global failure modes is challenging, and the assessment of strength and ductility capacities may be inaccurate, resulting in potentially unsafe designs. The objective of this research is to assess the performance of simplified damage-based concrete biaxial models in analyzing and capturing the structural behavior of full-scale RC systems. Damage-based models for concrete require minor input from the analyst, facilitating their use in a design setting, while their explicit, non-conditional convergence formulations allow for non-iterative solutions. This results in damage-based models featuring efficient computational analysis while accounting for complex phenomena such as the capacity to account for stiffness recovery in reversal loading (crack closing) and permanent strains in the concrete. A comparison between analytical and experimental data at both the element- and system-levels is conducted, and a viable damage-based model is proposed for a full-scale structure analysis. The results of the study show that damage-based models are a viable alternative to developing efficient analysis models for elements and whole structures.
Challenges and Opportunities of 5G Network: A Review of Research and Development
Authors: Sahu Vinay , Sahu Neetu , Sahu Rani
Published: July 2024

The advent of the fifth generation of wireless technology, commonly referred to as 5G, heralds a transformative era in communication and technology interaction. With its promise of high-speed connectivity, minimal latency, and support for massive machine-type communications, 5G networks are poised to enable a wide array of applications across various domains such as the Internet of Things (IoT), smart cities, virtual and augmented reality, Industry 4.0, and edge computing. However, the deployment of 5G networks presents numerous challenges, including infrastructure requirements, limited availability of high-frequency spectrum, security vulnerabilities, high deployment costs, and interoperability issues with existing networks. This paper meticulously examines the challenges, opportunities, and applications of 5G networks. It delves into the potential of 5G networks to offer rapid connectivity, facilitate novel applications, and revolutionize industries. Moreover, the paper scrutinizes the hurdles associated with deploying and sustaining 5G networks, underscoring the imperative need for further research in this domain to ensure the seamless adoption and integration of 5G technology. As 5G networks continue to evolve, addressing these challenges will be crucial for unlocking the full potential of this transformative technology and realizing its societal and economic benefits on a global scale. Additionally, collaboration between stakeholders including governments, telecommunications companies, technology providers, and regulatory bodies will play a pivotal role in overcoming these challenges and driving the successful deployment and adoption of 5G networks worldwide.
Witch Weeds (Striga spp.) Dissemination and Infestation in Ethiopian: Review Article
Authors: Teressa Temesgen
Published: July 2024

The endemic parasitic witch weeds (Striga spp.), which are found throughout sub-Saharan Africa, including Ethiopia, are progressively expanding their geographic range and degree of infection, which is significantly decreasing crop productivity. They are currently regarded as a widespread blight. The fight for economic expansion and food security is weakened by the Striga issue. Countries where Striga was only beginning to spread 25 years ago are now seeing significant annual losses in agricultural productivity. The projected yearly loss of sorghum in SSA due to Striga is 22–27%, and in Ethiopia, it is 25%. In SSA, Striga causes an annual loss of \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\$7 billion in grains, of which \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\$75 million is Ethiopia's portion. A significant biotic limitation and substantial danger to the production of food for subsistence in Ethiopia is Striga. The predominant species is Striga hermonthica, which is most severe in severely degraded regions of the country's north, northwest, and east, including Tigray, Wollo, Gonder, Gojjem, North Shewa, and Eastern Hararghe. Because of its wide geographic distribution and devastating effects on millions of people's livelihoods, Striga is quickly growing into a pandemic of significant proportions in the nation. Diverse sorghum germplasm may be found in Ethiopia, where there is also a chance to create Striga-resistant cultivars.