bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Optimization of Waterproof and Drainage Design and an Evaluation of the Structural Safety of Tunnels in Weak Watery Strata
Authors: Zhou Zelin , Zhu Xingyu , Zheng Chuantian , Zhang Zhiqiang , Zhang Heng
Published: October 2023

The surrounding rock and high water pressure in weak watery strata have adverse effects on the mechanical properties of tunnel support structures. In order to optimize the anti-drainage design of tunnels in weak watery strata and evaluate their structural safety, this paper relies on the Taidacun Tunnel of the China–Laos Railway to carry out field monitoring research. A dual-field fluid–solid coupling calculation model is established to optimize the tunnel’s waterproof and drainage design, combined with a bending moment curvature model to evaluate structural safety. The main conclusions are as follows: Under the action of high water and soil pressure, the structural safety margin of the water-rich fine sand section of the Taidacun Tunnel is small, and waterproof and drainage design optimization is required. Combined with the proposed average pressure reduction coefficient, the influence of the water level and annular blind pipe spacing on the water pressure of the lining is proved, and then the optimal annular blind pipe spacing in the water-rich area of the tunnel is determined. A structural safety evaluation method based on the bending moment curvature model is proposed. Two models of elastic beam and moment–curvature beam are used to analyze the mechanical characteristics and optimization effects of the structure under optimal annular blind pipe spacing.
Hydrogen Production via Methanol Steam Reforming over CuO/ZnO/Al2O3 Catalysts Prepared via Oxalate-Precursor Synthesis
Authors: Wang Haiguang , Liu Yongfeng , Zhang Jun
Published: October 2023

CuO/ZnO/Al2O3 catalysts are commonly used for the methanol steam reforming reaction. The oxalate precursor of CuO/ZnO/Al2O3 catalysts were prepared via the co-precipitation method using oxalic acid as the precipitator, deionized water and ethanol as the solvent, and microwave radiation and water baths as aging heating methods, respectively. This suggests that ethanol selects the crystalline phase composition of oxalate precursors and limits their growth. Microwave irradiation prompted the isomorphous substitution between Cu2+ of CuC2O4 and Zn2+ of ZnC2O4 in the mother liquid; Zn2+ in ZnC2O4·xH2O was substituted with Cu2+ in CuC2O4, forming the master phase (Cu,Zn)C2O4 in the precursor. Moreover, the solid solution Cu-O-Zn formed after calcination, which exhibited nano-fibriform morphology. It has the characteristics of small CuO grains, a large surface area, and strong synergistic effects between CuO and ZnO, which is conducive to improving the catalytic performance of methanol steam reforming. The conversion rate of methanol reached 91.2%, the space time yield of H2 reached 516.7 mL·g−1·h−1, and the selectivity of CO was only 0.29%.
Non-Psychoactive Phytocannabinoids Inhibit Inflammation-Related Changes of Human Coronary Artery Smooth Muscle and Endothelial Cells
Authors: Teichmann Elisa , Blessing Elane , Hinz Burkhard
Published: October 2023

Atherosclerosis is associated with vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation, chronic vascular inflammation, and leukocyte adhesion. In view of the cardioprotective effects of cannabinoids described in recent years, the present study investigated the impact of the non-psychoactive phytocannabinoids cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) on proliferation and migration of human coronary artery smooth muscle cells (HCASMC) and on inflammatory markers in human coronary artery endothelial cells (HCAEC). In HCASMC, CBD and THCV at nontoxic concentrations exhibited inhibitory effects on platelet-derived growth factor-triggered proliferation (CBD) and migration (CBD, THCV). When interleukin (IL)-1β- and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated HCAEC were examined, both cannabinoids showed a concentration-dependent decrease in the expression of vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), which was mediated independently of classical cannabinoid receptors and was not accompanied by a comparable inhibition of intercellular adhesion molecule-1. Further inhibitor experiments demonstrated that reactive oxygen species, p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase activation, histone deacetylase, and nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) underlie IL-1β- and LPS-induced expression of VCAM-1. In this context, CBD and THCV were shown to inhibit phosphorylation of NF-κB regulators in LPS- but not IL-1β-stimulated HCAEC. Stimulation of HCAEC with IL-1β and LPS was associated with increased adhesion of monocytes, which, however, could not be significantly abolished by CBD and THCV. In summary, the results highlight the potential of the non-psychoactive cannabinoids CBD and THCV to regulate inflammation-related changes in HCASMC and HCAEC. Considering their effect on both cell types studied, further preclinical studies could address the use of CBD and THCV in drug-eluting stents for coronary interventions.
Linking Mechanisms of Vitamin D Signaling with Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Carlberg Carsten , Mycko Marcin P.
Published: October 2023

Environmental triggers often work via signal transduction cascades that modulate the epigenome and transcriptome of cell types involved in the disease process. Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease affecting the central nervous system being characterized by a combination of recurring inflammation, demyelination and progressive loss of axons. The mechanisms of MS onset are not fully understood and genetic variants may explain only some 20% of the disease susceptibility. From the environmental factors being involved in disease development low vitamin D levels have been shown to significantly contribute to MS susceptibility. The pro-hormone vitamin D3 acts via its metabolite 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3) as a high affinity ligand to the transcription factor VDR (vitamin D receptor) and is a potent modulator of the epigenome at thousands of genomic regions and the transcriptome of hundreds of genes. A major target tissue of the effects of 1,25(OH)2D3 and VDR are cells of innate and adaptive immunity, such as monocytes, dendritic cells as well as B and T cells. Vitamin D induces immunological tolerance in T cells and reduces inflammatory reactions of various types of immune cells, all of which are implicated in MS pathogenesis. The immunomodulatory effects of 1,25(OH)2D3 contribute to the prevention of MS. However, the strength of the responses to vitamin D3 supplementation is highly variegated between individuals. This review will relate mechanisms of individual’s vitamin D responsiveness to MS susceptibility and discuss the prospect of vitamin D3 supplementation as a way to extinguish the autoimmunity in MS.
Pulmonary Hypertension in Interstitial Lung Disease: Updates in Disease, Diagnosis, and Therapeutics
Authors: Haynes Zachary A. , Chandel Abhimanyu , King Christopher S.
Published: October 2023

Pulmonary hypertension is a debilitating condition that frequently develops in the setting of interstitial lung disease, likely related to chronic alveolar hypoxemia and pulmonary vascular remodeling. This disease process is likely to be identified more frequently by providers given recent advancements in definitions and diagnostic modalities, and provides practitioners with emerging opportunities to improve patient outcomes and quality of life. Despite years of data suggesting against the efficacy of pulmonary vasodilator therapy in patients with pulmonary hypertension due to interstitial lung disease, new data have emerged identifying promising advancements in therapeutics. The authors present to you a comprehensive review of pulmonary hypertension in interstitial lung disease, reviewing our current understanding of pathophysiology, updates in diagnostic approaches, and highlights of recent clinical trials which provide an effective approach for medical management.
The Complexity of Hearing Aid Fitting: Children with Congenital Hearing Loss and Middle Ear Dysfunction
Authors: Priner Ronit , Brand Devora
Published: October 2023

Background: The early diagnosis of hearing loss (HL) and hearing rehabilitation facilitate language and communication development. Some children exhibit mixed HL due to middle ear effusion (MEE) or acute otitis media (AOM). Mixed HL can affect HL evaluation and hearing aid (HA) fitting. The present study retrospectively evaluated the prevalence of MEE/AOM among children with congenital sensorineural HL (SNHL) who were fitted with HAs and its effect on the HA fitting. Methods: Thirty-six HA fittings carried out between 2017 and 2020 at one rehabilitation center were examined. Medical and audiological information was retrieved for children between 6 and 32 months old. The number of appointments and HA fitting times were recorded. Results: Twenty-eight children were included in the study. Eighteen children, in addition to SNHL, had a conductive component resulting from MEE/AOM. The children with these pathologies required significantly more HA fitting sessions and hearing tests, fewer real ear to coupler difference (RECD) measurements and longer HA fitting periods. Conclusion: The findings indicate that a large number of children fitted with HAs have an additional conductive component that makes the fitting process longer. Since early rehabilitation is necessary for language development, otolaryngologists should be aware of the adverse effects of MEE/AOE on the HA fitting process. It is important to inform parents that when there is a conductive component, the HA fitting process may take longer and that treatment by an otolaryngologist is vital. This study stresses the importance of multidisciplinary cooperation for optimal HA fitting.
Implementing Contralateral Surgical Exploration during Hernia Repair in Children with Unilateral Inguinal Hernia: A Dutch Qualitative Study
Authors: Dreuning Kelly M. A. , Van Nassau Femke , Anema Johannes R. , Van Heurn L. W. Ernest , Derikx Joep P. M.
Published: October 2023

A total of 10–15% of children undergoing unilateral inguinal hernia repair develop a metachronous contralateral inguinal hernia (MCIH) that necessitates second anesthesia and surgery. Contralateral exploration can be performed to prevent MCIH development. This study investigates (1) factors that promote or hinder the adoption and (de-)implementation of contralateral groin exploration in children ≤ 6 months undergoing unilateral hernia repair and (2) strategies to overcome these barriers. A qualitative interview study was conducted using 14 semi-structured interviews and two focus groups involving healthcare professionals, stakeholders involved from a patients’ perspective and stakeholders at the organizational/policy level. The results show that the effectiveness of surgical treatment and stakeholders’ motivation and attitudes towards the intervention were reported as barriers for implementation, whereas patient and family outcomes and experience and strategies to overcome these barriers were identified as facilitating factors for future implementation. This study is unique in its contributions towards insights into facilitators and barriers for (de-)implementation of contralateral groin exploration in children with a unilateral inguinal hernia. In case the HERNIIA trial shows that contralateral exploration is beneficial for specific patient and family outcomes or a subgroup of children, the results of this study can help in the decision-making process as to whether contralateral exploration should be performed or not.
Empowering Students against Ethnic Bullying: Review and Recommendations of Innovative School Programs
Authors: Wu Qiyue , Jia Fanli
Published: October 2023

Despite research on anti-bullying interventions, there is no systemic approach or resources for teachers to address ethnic and race-related bullying in schools. In this article, we selectively reviewed theories and programs to help teachers identify and address ethnic bullying in their classrooms. We provide recommendations for workshops (e.g., cultural awareness training, empathy-building activities, bystander intervention, and stigma-based intervention). These anti-ethnic bullying workshops should promote understanding of different cultures, strengthen empathy for those who are different, encourage bystanders to take action, and reduce stigma and stereotypes. Through the sharing of diverse perspectives, expertise, and experiences, we hope this article can cultivate interactive dialogues and collaborations between educators and researchers to effectively address ethnic and race-related bullying.
Lactation Support as a Proxy Measure of Family-Centered Care Quality in Neonates with Life-Limiting Conditions—A Comparative Study
Authors: Brito Suneeta , Williams Allison , Fox Jenny , Mohammed Tazuddin , Chahin Nayef , McCarthy Kaitlin , Nubayaat Lamisa , Nunlist Shirley , Brannon Mason , Xu Jie , Hendricks-Muñoz Karen D.
Published: October 2023

Background: Lactation support is an important measure of Family-Centered Care (FCC) in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Life-limiting conditions (LLCs) raise complex ethical care issues for providers and parents in the NICU and represent a key and often overlooked population for whom FCC is particularly important. We investigated healthcare disparities in FCC lactation support quality in infants with LLCs. Methods: A retrospective cohort of inborn infants with or without LLCs admitted to the NICU between 2015–2023 included 395 infants with 219 LLC infants and 176 matched non-LLC infants and were compared on LLC supports. Results: The LLC cohort experienced greater skin-to-skin support, but less lactation specialist visits, breast pumps provided, and human milk oral care use. LLC infants also experienced less maternal visitation, use of donor milk (LLC: 15.5%, non-LLC: 33.5%), and breastfeeds (LLC: 24.2%, non-LLC: 43.2%), with lower mean human milk provision (LLC: 36.6%, non-LLC: 67.1%). LLC infants who survived to discharge had similar human milk use as non-LLC infants (LLC: 49.8%, non-LLC: 50.6%). Conclusion: Lactation support was significantly absent for families and infants who presented with LLCs in the NICU, suggesting that policies can be altered to increase lactation support FCC quality for this population.
A Pilot Feasibility Study Assessing the Combined Effects of Early Behavioral Intervention and Propranolol on Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Authors: Hirst Kathy , Zamzow Rachel M. , Stichter Janine P. , Beversdorf David Q.
Published: October 2023

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a neurodevelopmental disorder typified by differences in social communication as well as restricted and repetitive behaviors, is often responsive to early behavioral intervention. However, there is limited information on whether such intervention can be augmented with pharmacological approaches. We conducted a double-blinded, placebo-controlled feasibility trial to examine the effects of the β-adrenergic antagonist propranolol combined with early intensive behavioral intervention (EIBI) for children with ASD. Nine participants with ASD, ages three to ten, undergoing EIBI were enrolled and randomized to a 12-week course of propranolol or placebo. Blinded assessments were conducted at baseline, 6 weeks, and 12 weeks. The primary outcome measures focusing on social interaction were the General Social Outcome Measure-2 (GSOM-2) and Social Responsiveness Scale—Second Edition (SRS-2). Five participants completed the 12-week visit. The sample size was insufficient to evaluate the treatment efficacy. However, side effects were infrequent, and participants were largely able to fully participate in the procedures. Conducting a larger clinical trial to investigate propranolol’s effects on core ASD features within the context of behavioral therapy will be beneficial, as this will advance and individualize combined therapeutic approaches to ASD intervention. This initial study helps to understand feasibility constraints on performing such a study.
Contingent Mother’s Voice Intervention Targeting Feeding in Hospitalized Infants with Critical Congenital Heart Defects
Authors: Kjeldsen Caitlin P. , Emery Lelia , Simsic Janet , He Zhulin , Stark Ann R. , Neel Mary Lauren , Maitre Nathalie L.
Published: October 2023

Infants with critical congenital heart defects (CCHD) are at high risk for feeding challenges and neurodevelopmental delays; however, few interventions promoting the neurodevelopmental progression of feeding have been studied with this population. Contingent mother’s voice has been successfully used as positive reinforcement for non-nutritive suck (NNS) in studies with preterm infants, leading to improved weight gain and more rapid cessation of tube feedings; however, this type of intervention has not been studied in infants with CCHD. This study aimed to determine whether an NNS-training protocol using the mother’s voice as positive reinforcement and validated in preterm infants could improve oral feeding outcomes in hospitalized infants with CCHD undergoing cardiac surgical procedures. Infants were randomized to receive the contingent mother’s voice intervention before or after cardiac surgery, with a control comparison group receiving passive exposure to the mother’s voice after surgery. There were no significant differences in discharge weight, PO intake, length of stay, time to full feeds, or feeding status at 1-month post-discharge between infants who received contingent mother’s voice compared to those who did not. There were significant differences in PO intake and time to full feeds following surgery based on infants’ pre-enrollment PO status and severity of illness. At 1-month post-discharge, parents of infants in the intervention group expressed a higher rate of positive feelings and fewer concerns regarding their infant’s feeding compared to parents of infants in the control group. While the current protocol of 5 sessions was not associated with improved feeding outcomes in infants with CCHD, it empowered parents to contribute to their infant’s care and demonstrated the feasibility of using the mother’s voice as positive reinforcement for infants with CCHD. Further study of timing, intensity, and duration of interventions leveraging the mother’s voice in this population is needed. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03035552.
TiO2 Microparticles Incorporation in Coatings Produced by Plasma Electrolytic Oxidation (PEO) on Titanium
Authors: Ceriani Federica , Casanova Luca , Massimini Luca , Brenna Andrea , Ormellese Marco
Published: October 2023

This research describes the influence of two types of particles, namely rutile and anatase microparticles (average d < 5 µm), on the morphology, structure, and anticorrosive properties of PEO coatings on titanium produced in an alkaline solution based on NaOH and sodium metasilicates. The paper reports the experimental results relating to the study of the influence of the electrical regime and working frequency of the anodizing treatment on the interaction between the particles, the substrate, and the oxide to determine the optimal conditions that favour the incorporation of the particles and the production of a thick oxide. PEO coatings are characterized by using a scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) analysis, and X-ray diffraction (XRD) testing. The electrochemical behaviour is evaluated by free corrosion potential monitoring and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy analysis (EIS) performed in a sulphuric acid solution. The particles are successfully incorporated into the coating under any electrical condition and at any frequency. However, only treatments carried out at 1000 Hz allow the production of coatings that combine a large thickness (up to 50 µm) and improved anticorrosion behaviour. In contrast, oxide layers produced at 20 Hz and in DC show a quite damaged structure, affecting their anticorrosion behaviour and resulting in lower corrosion potential and impedance values.
Effect of Al Content on the Long-Term Corrosion Behavior of Arc-Sprayed ZnAl Alloy Coatings
Authors: Ding Yujie , Zhang Fanxing , Zhou Huan , Cheng Shunyao , Xu Kangwei , Wang Zhe , Xie Shufeng , Tian Jiajia
Published: October 2023

The corrosion of steel structures in aggressive marine environments is a vital issue that induces significant degradation of their performance and lifespan. Herein, three arc-sprayed ZnAl coatings with varied Al contents of 0 wt.%, 15 wt.%, and 50 wt.% were deposited onto a hull steel substrate. The effect of Al content on the long-term corrosion protection performance of ZnAl coatings left in a chloride-containing solution for 840 h was systematically investigated. The evolutions of open-circuit potential, polarization curves, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy of different ZnAl coatings during the long-term immersion test were examined. The morphologies and phase constitutions of the corrosion products were characterized. The results indicated that the corrosion rate of ZnAl coatings decreased as the Al content increased, and the ZnAl50 coating exhibited the most superior long-term corrosion protection performance. Moreover, for the three ZnAl coatings with an Al contents varying from 0 to 50%, their corrosion rate increased with immersion time in the initial 360 h due to the formation of the unstable and porous corrosion product ZnO; after 360 h immersion, their corrosion rate decreased with the prolonging of immersion time. This was revealed to be related to the formation of different corrosion products. ZnO and stable Al2O3 were the main corrosion products for the pure Zn coating and ZnAl15 coating, respectively. Al2O3 and powerful layered double hydroxide Zn6Al2(OH)16CO3·4H2O were found to be the dominant corrosion products of the ZnAl50 coating, which was responsible for its remarkable long-term corrosion protection performance.
Fuzzy Transform Image Compression in the YUV Space
Authors: Cardone Barbara , Di Martino Ferdinando , Sessa Salvatore
Published: October 2023

This research proposes a new image compression method based on the F1-transform which improves the quality of the reconstructed image without increasing the coding/decoding CPU time. The advantage of compressing color images in the YUV space is due to the fact that while the three bands Red, Green and Blue are equally perceived by the human eye, in YUV space most of the image information perceived by the human eye is contained in the Y band, as opposed to the U and V bands. Using this advantage, we construct a new color image compression algorithm based on F1-transform in which the image compression is accomplished in the YUV space, so that better-quality compressed images can be obtained without increasing the execution time. The results of tests performed on a set of color images show that our color image compression method improves the quality of the decoded images with respect to the image compression algorithms JPEG, F1-transform on the RGB color space and F-transform on the YUV color space, regardless of the selected compression rate and with comparable CPU times.
Crack-Free High-Composition (>35%) Thick-Barrier (>30 nm) AlGaN/AlN/GaN High-Electron-Mobility Transistor on Sapphire with Low Sheet Resistance (<250 Ω/□)
Authors: Mukhopadhyay Swarnav , Liu Cheng , Chen Jiahao , Tahmidul Alam Md , Sanyal Surjava , Bai Ruixin , Wang Guangying , Gupta Chirag , Pasayat Shubhra S.
Published: October 2023

In this article, a high-composition (>35%) thick-barrier (>30 nm) AlGaN/AlN/GaN high-electron-mobility transistor (HEMT) structure grown on a sapphire substrate with ultra-low sheet resistivity (<250 Ω/□) is reported. The optimization of growth conditions, such as reduced deposition rate, and the thickness optimization of different epitaxial layers allowed us to deposit a crack-free high-composition and thick AlGaN barrier layer HEMT structure. A significantly high two-dimensional electron gas (2DEG) density of 1.46 × 1013 cm−2 with a room-temperature mobility of 1710 cm2/V·s was obtained via Hall measurement using the Van der Pauw method. These state-of-the-art results show great potential for high-power Ga-polar HEMT design on sapphire substrates.
Diversity of Zooplankton in the Rice Fields in Suphan Buri Province, Thailand, with a New Record of Cyclopoid Copepod
Authors: Maiphae Supiyanit , Saetang Thanida , Jantawong Natthida , Wongkamhaeng Koraon , Piyasaengthong Narisara
Published: October 2023

Rice fields are dynamic ecosystems with complex niche structures for organisms, and they have been hypothesised to have high biodiversity. Accordingly, in this study, the diversity of zooplankton in rice fields in Suphan Buri Province, a large area of rice plantations in the central region of Thailand, was examined. A total of 100 species, including 52 rotifers, 18 cladocerans, and 30 copepods, were recorded, including Mesocyclops kayi, which was a new record in Thailand. A high Simpson’s diversity index (0.63) and a low Pielou’s species evenness index (0.02) confirmed various potential niches for zooplankton in this ecosystem, leading to a low Jaccard similarity index both among the current rice fields and those in other regions. Moreover, the species richness estimators suggested that more species are expected to be discovered in the rice fields. Rotifer and copepod communities are influenced by local environmental variables, including dissolved oxygen, salinity, conductivity, and chlorophyll a. The results of this study fill a gap in the knowledge regarding the diversity and ecology of zooplankton in rice fields. However, further research is needed to fully comprehend the function of this ecosystem and the actual diversity in Thailand.
Conventional and Switched Capacitor Boost Converters for Solar PV Integration: Dynamic MPPT Enhancement and Performance Evaluation
Authors: Hawsawi Mansour , Habbi Hanan Mikhael D. , Alhawsawi Edrees , Yahya Mohammed , Zohdy Mohamed A.
Published: October 2023

This paper designs two DC-DC converter configurations integrated with solar PV renewable energy resource. Its focuses on comparing two converter topologies: the conventional boost converter and the switched capacitor boost converter. The Perturb and Observe (P&O), Incremental Conductance (INC), Genetic Algorithm (GA), and Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) algorithms are employed to dynamically enhance the Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) performance for both converters. The simulation results demonstrate that both converter topologies, when integrated with appropriate MPPT algorithms, can effectively harvest maximum power from the solar PV. However, the switched capacitor topology converter exhibits advantages in terms of current capabilities and voltage performance. In addition, combing the switched capacitor boost converter with the GA-MPPT algorithm improved the output voltage profile. The switched capacitor topology demonstrates distinct advantages by exhibiting enhanced current control, enabling improved handling of dynamic load changes and varying irradiance conditions. It shows voltage regulation, resulting in reduced output voltage fluctuations and enhanced stability, thereby optimizing energy extraction. The GA-MPPT simulation demonstrates a substantial increase in maximized output current for the switched capacitor boost configuration (70 A) when compared to the conventional type (10 A). The validation and implementation of the system models are carried out using MATLAB/Simulink.
Optimizing Clinical Diabetes Diagnosis through Generative Adversarial Networks: Evaluation and Validation
Authors: García-Domínguez Antonio , Galván-Tejada Carlos E. , Magallanes-Quintanar Rafael , Cruz Miguel , Gonzalez-Curiel Irma , Delgado-Contreras J. Rubén , Soto-Murillo Manuel A. , Celaya-Padilla José M. , Galván-Tejada Jorge I.
Published: October 2023

The escalating prevalence of Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) represents a substantial burden on global healthcare systems, especially in regions such as Mexico. Existing diagnostic techniques, although effective, often require invasive procedures and labor-intensive efforts. The promise of artificial intelligence and data science for streamlining and enhancing T2D diagnosis is well-recognized; however, these advancements are frequently constrained by the limited availability of comprehensive patient datasets. To mitigate this challenge, the present study investigated the efficacy of Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) for augmenting existing T2D patient data, with a focus on a Mexican cohort. The researchers utilized a dataset of 1019 Mexican nationals, divided into 499 non-diabetic controls and 520 diabetic cases. GANs were applied to create synthetic patient profiles, which were subsequently used to train a Random Forest (RF) classification model. The study’s findings revealed a notable improvement in the model’s diagnostic accuracy, validating the utility of GAN-based data augmentation in a clinical context. The results bear significant implications for enhancing the robustness and reliability of Machine Learning tools in T2D diagnosis and management, offering a pathway toward more timely and effective patient care.
Contrarian Majority Rule Model with External Oscillating Propaganda and Individual Inertias
Authors: Gimenez Maria Cecilia , Reinaudi Luis , Galam Serge , Vazquez Federico
Published: October 2023

We study the Galam majority rule dynamics with contrarian behavior and an oscillating external propaganda in a population of agents that can adopt one of two possible opinions. In an iteration step, a random agent interacts with three other random agents and takes the majority opinion among the agents with probability p(t) (majority behavior) or the opposite opinion with probability 1−p(t) (contrarian behavior). The probability of following the majority rule p(t) varies with the temperature T and is coupled to a time-dependent oscillating field that mimics a mass media propaganda, in a way that agents are more likely to adopt the majority opinion when it is aligned with the sign of the field. We investigate the dynamics of this model on a complete graph and find various regimes as T is varied. A transition temperature Tc separates a bimodal oscillatory regime for TTc in which m oscillates around zero. These regimes are characterized by the distribution of residence times that exhibit a unique peak for a resonance temperature T*, where the response of the system is maximum. An insight into these results is given by a mean-field approach, which also shows that T* and Tc are closely related.
Distance-Metric Learning for Personalized Survival Analysis
Authors: Galetzka Wolfgang , Kowall Bernd , Jusi Cynthia , Huessler Eva-Maria , Stang Andreas
Published: October 2023

Personalized time-to-event or survival prediction with right-censored outcomes is a pervasive challenge in healthcare research. Although various supervised machine learning methods, such as random survival forests or neural networks, have been adapted to handle such outcomes effectively, they do not provide explanations for their predictions, lacking interpretability. In this paper, an alternative method for survival prediction by weighted nearest neighbors is proposed. Fitting this model to data entails optimizing the weights by learning a metric. An individual prediction of this method can be explained by providing the user with the most influential data points for this prediction, i.e., the closest data points and their weights. The strengths and weaknesses in terms of predictive performance are highlighted on simulated data and an application of the method on two different real-world datasets of breast cancer patients shows its competitiveness with established methods.
Pre-Configured Error Pattern Ordered Statistics Decoding for CRC-Polar Codes
Authors: Li Xuanyu , Niu Kai , Han Yuxin , Dai Jincheng , Tan Zhiyuan , Guo Zhiheng
Published: October 2023

In this paper, we propose a pre-configured error pattern ordered statistics decoding (PEPOSD) algorithm and discuss its application to short cyclic redundancy check (CRC)-polar codes. Unlike the traditional OSD that changes the most reliable independent symbols, we regard the decoding process as testing the error patterns, like guessing random additive noise decoding (GRAND). Also, the pre-configurator referred from ordered reliability bits (ORB) GRAND can better control the range and testing order of EPs. An offline–online structure can accelerate the decoding process. Additionally, we also introduce two orders to optimize the search order for testing EPs. Compared with CRC-aided OSD and list decoding, PEPOSD can achieve a better trade-off between accuracy and complexity.
Probabilistic Learning and Psychological Similarity
Authors: Poth Nina
Published: October 2023

The notions of psychological similarity and probabilistic learning are key posits in cognitive, computational, and developmental psychology and in machine learning. However, their explanatory relationship is rarely made explicit within and across these research fields. This opinionated review critically evaluates how these notions can mutually inform each other within computational cognitive science. Using probabilistic models of concept learning as a case study, I argue that two notions of psychological similarity offer important normative constraints to guide modelers’ interpretations of representational primitives. In particular, the two notions furnish probabilistic models of cognition with meaningful interpretations of what the associated subjective probabilities in the model represent and how they attach to experiences from which the agent learns. Similarity representations thereby provide probabilistic models with cognitive, as opposed to purely mathematical, content.
Practical Real-Time Phase Drift Compensation Scheme for Quantum Communication Systems
Authors: Song Xiaotian , Zhang Chunsheng , Pan Dong , Wang Min , Guo Jianxing , Zhang Feihao , Long Guilu
Published: October 2023

Quantum communication systems are susceptible to various perturbations and drifts arising from the operational environment, with phase drift being a crucial challenge. In this paper, we propose an efficient real-time phase drift compensation scheme in which only existing data from the quantum communication process is used to establish a stable closed-loop control subsystem for phase tracking. This scheme ensures the continuous operation of transmission by tracking and compensating for phase drift in the phase-encoding quantum communication system. The experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness and feasibility of the proposed scheme with an average quantum bit error rate of 1.60% and a standard deviation of 0.0583% for 16 h of continuous operation.
A Comparative Analysis of the Determinants of Foreign Direct Investment: The Case of Top Ten Recipients of Foreign Direct Investment in Africa
Authors: Adelakun Johnson , Ogujiuba Kanayo
Published: October 2023

Through mechanisms including knowledge transfer and productivity spillovers, foreign direct investment (FDI) is viewed as a critical driver of growth in developing economies. However, the majority of African nations require capital inflows, particularly foreign direct investment (FDI), as a result of insufficient capital accumulation. The capacity of African governments to deliver top-notch infrastructure and social services has been diminished as a result. However, there has not been any independent research on how FDI inflows have affected Africa’s top 10 nations between 1970 and 2021. Most studies on the subject overlooked the impact of institutional quality on FDI inflows and omitted pertinent indicators of infrastructure development. The purpose of this article is to present a comparative analysis of the factors influencing the top ten beneficiaries of FDI in Africa. The ARDL bound test was employed to confirm the co-integration of the variables over the long term. The major goal is to confirm the relationship between the short- and long-term determinants of foreign direct investment in the top ten African recipients. This estimation was performed based on the unique characteristics of each country to make comparisons and inferences easier. The results of the limit test demonstrated the existence of a long-term connection between the examined determinants. The study found that infrastructure gaps, poor domestic savings, and price inflation were some of the mitigating factors preventing FDI from entering these countries. Additionally, the study found poor governance, which may impede the growth of effective institutions and capital inflows. It is crucial that these nations undertake both fiscal and monetary policies in order to address these issues, draw in private investments that allow for significant economic activity, and boost their economies’ prosperity.
Learning Organization Practices in Latvian Schools: Perspectives from School Staff, Students, and Parents
Authors: Lūsēna-Ezera Inese , Siliņa-Jasjukeviča Gunta , Lastovska Agnese , Surikova Svetlana , Kaulēns Oskars , Linde Inga
Published: October 2023

The aim of this study is to analyze the current practice of implementing an approach to the school as a learning organzsation (SLO) in general and vocational education in Latvia. The OECD integrated SLO model was used to find out whether there were differences between the opinions of school staff, students, and parents on the current practice of implementing the SLO approach in schools. A concurrent triangulation design was implemented, in which qualitative (school staff, n = 38) and quantitative (students, n = 990; parents, n = 620) data were collected concurrently, followed by a separate data analysis, after which the results of the studies were merged and triangulated. One of the key prerequisites for a school to become a learning organization is leadership, which is implemented on a daily basis by the school principal or an extended school management team. The results of the study indicate that, based on the analysis of students’ and parents’ opinions, learning leadership is one of the weakest dimensions of the SLO. The study also concludes that students’ and parents’ views on learning with and from the external environment and the wider system in their educational institution are not so positive, and that there is a need to raise the awareness of the school staff of the importance of collaboration in the current implementation practice of the SLO approach. It is necessary to ensure that purposeful cooperation and joint action are implemented at the school level to achieve the common goals of the school.
Teachers’ Self-Efficacy and Attitudes towards the Use of Information Technology in Classrooms
Authors: Clipa Otilia , Delibas Clapona-Simona , Mâță Liliana
Published: October 2023

This research aims to measure the level of integration of ICT in teaching, learning, and assessment practices during the COVID-19 pandemic. We propose measuring teachers’ attitude, self-efficacy, and skills in using technology because the quality of education during the pandemic was influenced by these factors. An online questionnaire was distributed amongst 189 teachers from all levels of education, from kindergarten to high school, and the sample was described using the means, distribution, and number of years of experience in education. The statistical analyses employed for the quantitative data included correlational study and mediation analysis. We found a correlation between gender, environment, barrier level and teachers’ attitude, self-efficacy, and skills. Also, the teachers’ attitude mediates the association between ICT skills and ICT integration in the educational process. The results reveal high positive scores in terms of ICT integration in teaching practices, teachers’ attitude, self-efficacy, and ICT skills. The novelty of this research is that this is the first time a questionnaire based on attitude, self-efficacy, ICT skills, and ICT integration in the classroom has been applied in the northern Moldavian region of Romania, and the results underline the educational implications for in-service teacher training.
The ErbB Signaling Network and Its Potential Role in Endometrial Cancer
Authors: Androutsopoulos Georgios , Styliara Ioanna , Zarogianni Evgenia , Lazurko Nadia , Valasoulis George , Michail Georgios , Adonakis Georgios
Published: October 2023

Endometrial cancer (EC) is the second most common malignancy of the female reproductive system worldwide. The updated EC classification emphasizes the significant role of various signaling pathways such as PIK3CA-PIK3R1-PTEN and RTK/RAS/β-catenin in EC pathogenesis. Some of these pathways are part of the EGF system signaling network, which becomes hyperactivated by various mechanisms and participates in cancer pathogenesis. In EC, the expression of ErbB receptors is significantly different, compared with the premenopausal and postmenopausal endometrium, mainly because of the increased transcriptional activity of ErbB encoding genes in EC cells. Moreover, there are some differences in ErbB-2 receptor profile among EC subgroups that could be explained by the alterations in pathophysiology and clinical behavior of various EC histologic subtypes. The fact that ErbB-2 receptor expression is more common in aggressive EC histologic subtypes (papillary serous and clear cell) could indicate a future role of ErbB-targeted therapies in well-defined EC subgroups with overexpression of ErbB receptors.
A Walk through AGN Country—For the Somewhat Initiated!
Authors: Antonucci Robert R. J.
Published: October 2023

Key issues in AGN and galaxy formation are discussed. Very successful Unified Models explain much of the variety of AGN with orientation effects; the ingredients are shadowing by a dusty “torus” and relativistic beaming. A spinoff result is described which is important for the formation of massive elliptical galaxies, the most spectacular and unequivocal AGN feedback phenomenon known. This is the so-called “alignment effect” in powerful radio galaxies at z∼>1. One of them is a BAL radio galaxy! Next, I explain a very robust derivation of the reddening law for nuclear dust, which reveals a dearth of small grains on parsec scales. Then, the quasistatic thin accretion disk model, thought by many to explain the energetically dominant optical/UV continuum, is thoroughly debunked. Much of this was known when the model was proposed 35 years ago. A new argument is provided that trivially falsifies a huge superset of such models. I then show that it is possible to see the central engine spectrum with the atomic and dust emission surgically removed! Few have noticed this breakthrough work. Finally, the far IR dust emission in Cygnus A is 10% polarized; to date, high nuclear dust polarization has been seen in all radio loud objects and no radio quiet ones.
The Sustainable Bioactive Dyeing of Textiles: A Novel Strategy Using Bacterial Pigments, Natural Antibacterial Ingredients, and Deep Eutectic Solvents
Authors: Mouro Cláudia , Gomes Ana P. , Costa Rita V. , Moghtader Farzaneh , Gouveia Isabel C.
Published: October 2023

The textile industry stands as a prominent contributor to global environmental pollution, primarily attributable to its extensive reliance on synthetic dyes, hazardous components, and solvents throughout the textile dyeing and treatment processes. Consequently, the pursuit of sustainable textile solutions becomes imperative, aimed at replacing these environmentally unfriendly constituents with biobased and bioactive pigments, antibacterial agents, and, notably, natural solvents. Achieving this goal is a formidable yet indispensable challenge. In this study, the dyeing ability of the crude gel prodigiosin, produced by non-pathogenic bacteria Serratia plymuthica, was investigated on various multifiber fabrics at different conditions (temperature and pH) and by using salts and alternative mordants (the conventional Ferrous Sulphate (FeSO4) and a new bio-mordant, L-Cysteine (L-Cys)). Additionally, a novel gel-based Choline chloride (ChCl)/Lactic acid (LA) (1:2) deep eutectic solvent (DES) dyeing medium was studied to replace the organic solvents. Nylon fabrics dyed with 3.0% over the weight of the fiber (owf) L-Cys at pH = 8.3 had improved color fastness to washing, while the gel-based ChCl/LA (1:2) DES dyebath provided a better color fastness to light. Moreover, nylon fabrics under these conditions exhibited remarkable antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa). In conclusion, the utilization of the crude gel-based prodigiosin pigment demonstrates a distinct advantage in dyeing textile materials, aligning with the growing consumer demand for more eco-friendly and sustainable products. Additionally, the application of the natural reducing agent L-Cys, previously untested as a bio-mordant, in conjunction with the use of gel-based DES as a dyeing medium, has showcased improved colorimetric and antibacterial properties when applied to nylon that is dyed with the crude gel prodigiosin pigment.
Influence of Different Evolutive Forces on GDF5 Gene Variability
Authors: Flore Laura , Francalacci Paolo , Massidda Myosotis , Robledo Renato , Calò Carla Maria
Published: October 2023

The GDF5 gene is involved in the development of skeletal elements, synovial joint formation, tendons, ligaments, and cartilage. Several polymorphisms are present within the gene, and two of them, rs143384 and 143383, were reported to be correlated with osteoarticular disease or muscle flexibility. The aim of this research is to verify if the worldwide distribution of the rs143384 polymorphism among human populations was shaped by selective pressure, or if it was the result of random genetic drift events. Ninety-four individuals of both the male and female sexes, 18–28 years old, from Sardinia were analyzed. We observed the following genotype frequencies: 28.72% of AA homozygotes, 13.83% of GG homozygotes, and 57.45% of AG heterozygotes. The allele frequencies were 0.574 for allele A and 0.426 for allele G. The relationships between the populations were verified via Multidimensional Scaling (MDS). Our data show (i) a clear heterogeneity within the African populations; (ii) a strong differentiation between the African populations and the other populations; and that (iii) the Sardinian population is placed within the European cluster. To reveal possible traces of selective pressure, the Population Branch Statistic (PBS) was calculated; both the rs143384 and 143383 SNPs have low PBS values, suggesting that there are no signals of selective pressure in those areas of the gene.
Role of RNA Alternative Splicing in T Cell Function and Disease
Authors: Banerjee Shefali , Galarza-Muñoz Gaddiel , Garcia-Blanco Mariano A.
Published: October 2023

Alternative RNA splicing, a ubiquitous mechanism of gene regulation in eukaryotes, expands genome coding capacity and proteomic diversity. It has essential roles in all aspects of human physiology, including immunity. This review highlights the importance of RNA alternative splicing in regulating immune T cell function. We discuss how mutations that affect the alternative splicing of T cell factors can contribute to abnormal T cell function and ultimately lead to autoimmune diseases. We also explore the potential applications of strategies that target the alternative splicing changes of T cell factors. These strategies could help design therapeutic approaches to treat autoimmune disorders and improve immunotherapy.