bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Machine learning and numerical investigation on drag coefficient of arbitrary polygonal particles
Authors: Xiang Haonan , Cheng Cheng , Zhang Pei , Jiang Genghui
Published: August 2024

The drag coefficient, as the most important parameter that characterizes particle dynamics in flows, has been the focus of a large number of investigations. Although good predictability is achieved for simple shapes, it is still challenging to accurately predict drag coefficient of complex‐shaped particles even under moderate Reynolds number (Re). The problem is that the small‐scale shape details of particles can still have considerable impact on the drag coefficient, but these geometrical details cannot be described by single shape factor. To address this challenge, we leverage modern deep‐learning method's ability for pattern recognition, take multiple shape factors as input to better characterize particle‐shape details, and use the drag coefficient as output. To obtain a high‐precision data set, the discrete element method coupled with an improved velocity interpolation scheme of the lattice Boltzmann method is used to simulate and analyze the sedimentation dynamics of polygonal particles. Four different machine‐learning models for predicting the drag coefficient are developed and compared. The results show that our model can well predict the drag coefficient with an average error of less than 5% for particles. These findings suggest that data‐driven models can be an attractive option for the drag‐coefficient prediction for particles with complex shapes.
Double‐sided queues and their applications to vaccine inventory management
Authors: Wu Haoran , He Qi‐Ming , Erenay Fatih Safa
Published: August 2024

We consider a double‐sided queueing model with batch Markovian arrival processes (BMAPs) and finite discrete abandonment times, which arises in various stochastic systems such as perishable inventory systems and financial markets. Customers arrive at the system with a batch of orders to be matched by counterparts. While waiting to be matched, customers become impatient and may abandon the system without service. The abandonment time of a customer depends on its batch size and its position in the queue. First, we propose an approach to obtain the stationary joint distribution of age processes via the stationary analysis of a multi‐layer Markov modulated fluid flow process. Second, using the stationary joint distribution of the age processes, we derive a number of queueing quantities related to matching rates, fill rates, sojourn times and queue length for both sides of the system. Last, we apply our model to analyze a vaccine inventory system and gain insight into the effect of uncertainty in supply and demand processes on the performance of the inventory system. It is observed that BMAPs are better choices for modeling the supply/demand process in systems with high uncertainty for more accurate performance quantities.
Association of epicardial adipose tissue on magnetic resonance imaging with cardiovascular outcomes: Quality over quantity?
Authors: Duca Franz , Mascherbauer Katharina , Donà Carolina , Koschutnik Matthias , Binder Christina , Nitsche Christian , Halavina Kseniya , Beitzke Dietrich , Loewe Christian , Bartko Philipp , Waldmann Elisabeth , Mascherbauer Julia , Hengstenberg Christian , Kammerlander Andreas
Published: August 2024

Objective

Epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) quantity is associated with poor cardiovascular outcomes. However, the quality of EAT may be of incremental prognostic value. Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) is the gold standard for tissue characterization but has never been applied for EAT quality assessment. We aimed to investigate EAT quality measured on CMR T1 mapping as a predictor of poor outcomes in an all‐comer cohort.

Methods

We investigated the association of EAT area and EAT T1 times (EAT‐T1) with a composite endpoint of nonfatal myocardial infarction, heart failure hospitalization, and all‐cause death.

Results

A total of 966 participants were included (47.2% female; mean age: 58.4 years) in this prospective observational CMR registry. Mean EAT area and EAT‐T1 were 7.3 cm2 and 268 ms, respectively. On linear regression, EAT‐T1 was not associated with markers of obesity, dyslipidemia, or comorbidities such as diabetes (p > 0.05 for all). During a follow‐up of 57.7 months, a total of 280 (29.0%) events occurred. EAT‐T1 was independently associated (adjusted hazard ratio per SD: 1.202; 95% CI: 1.022–1.413; p = 0.026) with the composite endpoint when adjusted for established clinical risk.

Conclusions

EAT quality (as assessed via CMR T1 times), but not EAT quantity, is independently associated with a composite endpoint of nonfatal myocardial infarction, heart failure hospitalization, and all‐cause death.

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Skull Base Osteomyelitis: A 5‐Year Review and Prognostic Outcome in a Single Tertiary Institution
Authors: Yew Toong Liew , Ghauth Sakina , Yin Xuan Ng
Published: August 2024

Objective

The primary objective of this study is to review the clinical parameters associated with skull base osteomyelitis (SBO), with a secondary aim of studying their association with patient outcomes 1 and 6 months after treatment initiation.

Study Design

This is a single‐center restrospective observational study.

Setting

The study was conducted from January 2018 to December 2022 at the University Malaya Medical Center in Kuala Lumpur.

Methods

Patients aged over 15 years with a diagnosis of SBO were included in the study. Clinical parameters, investigations, and follow‐up records were recorded. The disease outcomes were analyzed at 1 and 6 months after treatment initiation using multivariable analyses.

Results

The study identified 31 patients with SBO, the majority of whom were elderly males with comorbidities such as diabetes and hypertension. Otalgia and otorrhea were the most common symptoms, and computed tomography scans were used for diagnosis. Pseudomonas aeruginosa was the most commonly identified pathogen, and intravenous broad‐spectrum antimicrobials were used to treat all patients. Surgical intervention was required for 25% of patients, and underlying ischemic heart disease, anemia, and single nerve palsy were significantly associated with an unfavorable prognosis. Patients with higher body mass index and elevated C‐reactive protein showed poorer outcomes after 1 and 6 months of treatment, respectively.

Conclusion

Early recognition, prompt treatment, better control of comorbidities, nutrition, and monitoring can improve SBO outcomes and reduce complications. Therefore, as the prevalence of SBO increases, diagnostic criteria or management guidelines should be established to guide the best clinical practice.
Insights Into Benzothiazolyl‐Coupled Azetidinone Moieties Toward EGFR Binding and Stability Analysis—Evidence From Molecular Docking and Dynamics Simulation
Authors: Rajesh Gupta Dheeraj , Dwivedi Prarambh S. R. , Koshy Abel John , S Anusha , A Ranjitha , Rehman Niyas , Kumar Pankaj
Published: August 2024

Breast cancer, a formidable threat to women's health, mainly manifests in the HER2 subtype, affecting approximately one in five women. Thus, this study endeavors to pioneer novel approaches by exploring the efficacy of benzothiazole‐coupled azetidinone derivatives against EGFR. We aimed to elucidate their potential by employing a comprehensive array of in silico methodologies, including molecular docking, pharmacokinetics profiling, pharmacophore mapping, molecular dynamic simulations, and MMPBSA analysis. Remarkably, our results demonstrate that our designed molecules adhere to Lipinski's rule and comply with essential physiochemical and druggable properties, affirming the promise of these compounds. Ligand MS60 emerges as a lead, showcasing the most substantial interaction with the EGFR receptor, underscored by its impressive docking score of −8.199 kcal/mol. Furthermore, molecular dynamics simulations conducted via GROMACS corroborate the stability of the MS60‐EGFR complex, portraying minimal fluctuations. This assertion is further validated through MMPBSA, PCA analysis, DCCM, and FEL studies, underscoring the robustness of our findings. We have designed the pharmacophore model to unravel critical steric and electronic attributes essential for effective supramolecular interactions with the EGFR receptor. Notably, the presence of the R10, R11, and A4 groups within the ligands underscores their pivotal role in eliciting pharmacological activity, offering valuable insights for further exploration and development.
ZnMn2O4‐BiVO4 as Photocatalyst for Degradation of Gaseous HCHO Using Daylight
Authors: Wua Peiying , Attarde Sanjay , Lu Chia‐Chen , Wu Ren‐Jang , Fegade Umesh , Kolate Sachin , Patil Nilima , Altalhi Tariq
Published: August 2024

Formaldehyde (HCHO) is a common indoor air pollutant. Due to its proven carcinogenicity, reducing indoor HCHO levels is a significant issue. In this study, a composite material consisting of zinc manganese oxide and BiVO4 was used as a photocatalyst for HCHO degradation. ZnMn2O4‐BiVO4 has efficient photocatalytic performance, wide application areas, high stability, and low‐cost advantages, making the substance a potentially useful photocatalyst that can be applied in fields such as energy conversion and environmental protection. BiVO4 was prepared by a hydrothermal method. It was further compounded with zinc manganese oxide to form composite as catalysts of different wt % ratios for photodegradation of HCHO using a fluorescent lamp as light source. The samples were characterized by using XRD, UV‐visible spectrometer, TEM, SEM, and photoluminescence spectrometry. The experimental data showed that 5.0 wt % zinc manganese oxide‐BiVO4 as catalyst had the highest HCHO degradation rate. The release of carbon dioxide and water increased the irradiation time. The degradation rate of HCHO was higher than that achieved with commercially available titanium oxide. The highest HCHO degradation rate was 66 % within 4 h.
Recent Developments in Fullerene‐Based Materials for Photocatalytic Applications in Wastewater Treatment and Water Splitting
Authors: Ishaq Tehmeena , Kanwal Aqeela , Sattar Rabia
Published: August 2024

The use of semiconductor‐based photocatalytic methods has been widespread for a range of applications, including pollution control and energy generation. However, certain analytical concerns limit the effectiveness of these photocatalysts, such as their limited light absorption capacity, physicochemical instability, and large energy band gap. To address these issues, scientists have been exploring integrating carbonaceous materials into photocatalytic systems to enhance their activity. This review focuses specifically on fullerene photocatalysts, a type of carbonaceous photocatalyst that has shown great promise in recent research. Fullerenes, which include C60 and C70, have unique properties that make them ideal for use as photocatalyst amplifiers in combination with other semiconductors or non‐semiconductors. This review summarizes recent research into the use of fullerene‐based materials for a variety of photocatalytic applications, including pollutant degradation, and hydrogen energy production. The efficacy of fullerene‐based photocatalysts is also discussed in recent breakthroughs in photocatalytic mechanisms and synthesis methods, focusing on pollution removal and hydrogen generation. Finally, the review addresses ongoing challenges and opportunities for fullerene‐based photocatalysts. The goal is to contribute to advancements in environmental protection and energy generation.
Novel Closed‐Form Point Estimators for a Weighted Exponential Family Derived From Likelihood Equations
Authors: Vila Roberto , Nakano Eduardo , Saulo Helton
Published: August 2024

In this paper, we propose and investigate closed‐form point estimators for a weighted exponential family. We also develop a bias‐reduced version of these proposed closed‐form estimators through bootstrap methods. Estimators are assessed using a Monte Carlo simulation, revealing favourable results for the proposed bootstrap bias‐reduced estimators. We illustrate the proposed methodology with the use of two real data sets.
Structure of Agriculture
Authors: Hansen Henning Otte
Published: August 2024

Development and trends in agriculture often reflect a changed structure: Fewer, larger and more specialized farms are pervasive trends in agricultural development—at least in high-income countries. The structure of agriculture and not least the structural development are visible signs of a changing industry. Structural development in agriculture can be defined and described in many different ways: the total number and size of the individual farms, specialization, concentration, types of ownership, vertical integration, globalization and farmer demographics. Clear global trends in the structural development of agriculture can generally be observed. However, in certain areas, there are significant differences in the development between low- and high-income countries.
Food Value Chains
Authors: Hansen Henning Otte
Published: August 2024

The food value chain is a vertical axis connecting or coordinating supplying, producing, processing and selling the food from farm to table. This chapter describes the structure and integration in the value chain and the respective position of companies in the value chain and their market power. The concepts of value chain and megatrends are connected. Value chains develop and change—often influenced by or as a consequence of megatrends. The balance of market and bargaining power in the value chain shifts: The forms of integration in the value chain develop and change. Furthermore, global value chains are becoming more important. A significant structural development of the retail industry is taking place in terms of increasing consolidation, concentration and globalization.
Idempotents and homology of diagram algebras
Authors: Boyde Guy
Published: August 2024

This paper provides a systematization of some recent results in homology of algebras. Our main theorem gives criteria under which the homology of a diagram algebra is isomorphic to the homology of the subalgebra on diagrams having the maximum number of left-to-right connections. From this theorem, we deduce the ‘invertible-parameter’ cases of the Temperley–Lieb and Brauer results of Boyd–Hepworth and Boyd–Hepworth–Patzt. We are also able to give a new proof of Sroka’s theorem that the homology of an odd-strand Temperley–Lieb algebra vanishes, as well as an analogous result for Brauer algebras and an interpretation of both results in the even-strand case. Our proofs are relatively elementary: in particular, no auxiliary chain complexes or spectral sequences are required. We briefly discuss the relationship to cellular algebras in the sense of Graham–Lehrer.
Mating Assay: Plating Below a Cell Density Threshold is Required for Unbiased Estimation of Plasmid Conjugation Frequency of RP4 Transfer Between E. coli Strains
Authors: He Zhiming , Smets Barth F. , Dechesne Arnaud
Published: August 2024

Mating assays are common laboratory experiments for measuring the conjugation frequency, i.e. efficiency at which a plasmid transfers from a population of donor cells to a population of recipient cells. Selective plating remains a widely used quantification method to enumerate transconjugants at the end of such assays. However, conjugation frequencies may be inaccurately estimated because plasmid transfer can occur on transconjugant-selective plates rather than only during the intended mating duration. We investigated the influence of cell density on this phenomenon. We conducted mating experiments with IncPα plasmid RP4 harbored in Escherichia coli at a fixed cell density and mating conditions, inoculated a serial dilution of the mating mixture on transconjugant-selective plates or in transconjugant-selective broth, and compared the results to a model of cell-to-cell distance distribution. Our findings suggest that irrespective of the mating mode (liquid vs solid), the enumeration of transconjugants becomes significantly biased if the plated cell density exceeds 28 Colony Forming Unit (CFU)/mm2 (or 1.68•105 CFU/standard 9 cm Petri dish). This threshold is determined with a 95% confidence interval of ± 4 CFU/mm2 (± 2.46•104 CFU/standard 9 cm Petri dish). Liquid mating assays were more sensitive to this bias because the conjugation frequency of RP4 is several orders of magnitude lower in suspension compared to surface mating. Therefore, if selective plating is used, we recommend to plate at this density threshold and that negative controls are performed where donors and recipients are briefly mixed before plating at the same dilutions as for the actual mating assay. As an alternative, a liquid enumeration method can be utilized to increase the signal-to-noise ratio and allow for more accurate enumeration of transconjugants.
MTHFR polymorphisms and vitamin B12 deficiency: correlation between mthfr polymorphisms and clinical and laboratory findings
Authors: Giammarco Sabrina , Chiusolo Patrizia , Maggi Roberto , Rossi Monica , Minnella Gessica , Metafuni Elisabetta , D’Alò Francesco , Sica Simona
Published: August 2024

Vitamin B12 deficiency is a common condition that causes a variety of disorders ranging from the development of megaloblastic anemia to the building up of neurological damage. Historically one of the leading causes of B12 deficiency appears to be secondary to malabsorption in part caused by the development of atrophic gastritis in pernicious anemia. More recently B12 deficiency could also depend on dietary restrictions. Cobalamin deficiency also appears to be closely related to folate metabolism, causing a reduction in methionine synthase activity. This results in the accumulation of 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF) and defective DNA synthesis. It has been hypothesized that reduced activity of the enzyme methylene-tetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) could reduce the production of 5-MTHF, thereby shifting folate metabolism to thymidylate synthesis and promoting proper DNA synthesis. Our aim was to investigate the role of the C677T and A1298C MTHFR gene polymorphisms, which are associated with reduced enzyme activity, in predisposing to the development of anemia, neurological symptoms, and atrophic gastritis in a population of 105 consecutive Italian patients with cobalamin deficiency. We found statistically significant correlations between the degree of anemia and thrombocytopenia and the C677T MTHFR polymorphism, while hemoglobin levels alone significantly correlated with A1298C polymorphism, contradicting the potential protective role of these polymorphisms. Furthermore, in patients with atrophic gastritis, we found an association between the absence of parietal cell antibodies and the presence of the C677T polymorphism in homozygosity. Our results suggest a role for MTHFR enzyme activity in the severity of hematologic manifestations of vitamin B12 deficiency and as an independent mechanism of predisposition to the development of atrophic gastritis.
Superior osmotic stress tolerance in oilseed rape transformed with wild-type Rhizobium rhizogenes
Authors: Chen Xuefei , Lütken Henrik , Liang Kehao , Liu Fulai , Favero Bruno Trevenzoli
Published: August 2024

Key message

Natural transformation with R. rhizogenes enhances osmotic stress tolerance in oilseed rape through increasing osmoregulation capacity, enhancing maintenance of hydraulic integrity and total antioxidant capacity.

Transformation of plants using wild strains of agrobacteria is termed natural transformation and is not covered by GMO legislation in, e.g., European Union and Japan. In this study, offspring lines of Rhizobium rhizogenes naturally transformed oilseed rape (Brassica napus), i.e., A11 and B3 (termed root-inducing (Ri) lines), were investigated for osmotic stress resilience. Under polyethylene glycol 6000 (PEG) 10% (w/v)-induced osmotic stress, the Ri lines, particularly A11, had less severe leaf wilting, higher stomatal conductance (8.2 times more than WT), and a stable leaf transpiration rate (about 2.9 mmol m−2 s−1). Although the leaf relative water content and leaf water potential responded similarly to PEG treatment between the Ri lines and WT, a significant reduction of the turgid weight to dry weight ratio in A11 and B3 indicated a greater capacity of osmoregulation in the Ri lines. Moreover, the upregulation of plasma membrane intrinsic proteins genes (PIPs) in roots and downregulation of these genes in leaves of the Ri lines implied a better maintenance of hydraulic integrity in relation to the WT. Furthermore, the Ri lines had greater total antioxidant capacity (TAC) than the WT under PEG stress. Collectively, the enhanced tolerance of the Ri lines to PEG-induced osmotic stress could be attributed to the greater osmoregulation capacity, better maintenance of hydraulic integrity, and greater TAC than the WT. In addition, Ri-genes (particularly rolA and rolD) play roles in response to osmotic stress in Ri oilseed rape. This study reveals the potential of R. rhizogenes transformation for application in plant drought resilience.
Physical modeling of conjugate heat transfer for multiregion and multiphase systems with the Volume-of-Fluid method
Authors: Kind Johannes , Sielaff Axel , Stephan Peter
Published: August 2024

The Volume-of-Fluid (VOF) method is commonly used for numerical simulations of phase change phenomena, such as nucleate boiling or droplet evaporation. A key issue with the standard VOF method is the averaging of the liquid and vapor properties in interface cells, which causes non-physical conjugate heat transfer with a solid wall. Therefore, we aim at a physical model for conjugate heat transfer between a solid and a multiphase fluid. The first measure for higher quality simulations is the splitting of the single temperature field in the fluid region into separate liquid and vapor temperature fields. The second measure is the development of a new, more physical temperature boundary condition for conjugate heat transfer between a solid region and a multiphase fluid, based on experimental results, theoretical models and theoretical considerations. In interface cells, the vapor phase is excluded from the conjugate heat transfer because only heat transfer to the liquid phase occurs resp. dominates. Additionally, the conjugate heat transfer between solid and liquid in the interface cells is performed with virtual subcells, depending on the respective volume fraction of the liquid phase. This new approach (we name it distinctive approach) is successfully validated for energy conservation, and stability issues are discussed for the first time. Significant differences to simulations with averaged properties are observed due to the (now) physically correct modeling of conjugate heat transfer. In our boiling cases, the more accurate numerical simulations lead to considerably larger bubble growth rates. Higher quality simulations are also expected for nearly all applications, where there is a three-phase contact line, be it vapor bubbles in nucleate boiling or droplets impacting on a heated surface.
Impact of Frailty on Post-Treatment Dysphagia in Patients with Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Hurtado-Oliva Javier , van der Laan Hans Paul , de Vries Julius , Steenbakkers Roel J. H. M. , Halmos Gyorgy B. , Wegner Inge
Published: August 2024

In the rising and frail head and neck cancer (HNC) population, geriatric assessments are crucial. Frail HNC patients often experience dysphagia. The coexistence of dysphagia and frailty presents complex health challenges, however, there is limited evidence on the prognostic value of frailty on post-treatment dysphagia. This study explores the relationship between pre-treatment frailty status and post-treatment dysphagia in HNC patients. A retrospective data analysis from the OncoLifeS data-biobank at the University Medical Center Groningen of 242 patients diagnosed with HNC between 2014 and 2016. The study involved several physical, functional and psychological pre-treatment geriatric assessments, and frailty screening using the Groningen Frailty Indicator (GFI) and the Geriatric-8 screening tool (G8). Outcome measures were swallowing-related quality of life (HNSW-QoL) and toxicity-related dysphagia evaluations (CTCAE-D) at 3, 6, 12 and 24 months. Linear mixed-effects models assessed factors associated with HNSW-QoL and CTCAE-D. Frail patients consistently reported worse HNSW-QoL and CTCAE-D than non-frail patients over time, with symptoms increasing at 3 months, but gradually decreasing by 24 months. Frailty status (G8 or GFI) was a significant predictor for lower HNSW-QoL (β = 11.770 and 10.936, both p < 0.001), and lower CTCAE-D (β = 0.245, p = 0.058; β = 0.331, p = 0.019), respectively. In this study, frailty was found to be associated with a worse of swallowing-related quality of life, and with increased toxicity-related dysphagia. These findings provide insights for the identification of HNC patients at higher risk of post-treatment swallowing-related issues, and offer opportunities for optimizing their post-treatment swallowing outcomes.
Assessing the impact of climate change and reservoir operation on the thermal and ice regime of mountain rivers using the XGBoost model and wavelet analysis
Authors: Fukś Maksymilian , Kędra Mariola , Wiejaczka Łukasz
Published: August 2024

This study presents an analysis of the influence of climatic conditions and the operation of a dam reservoir on the occurrence of ice cover and water temperature in two rivers (natural and transformed by reservoir operations) located in the Carpathian Mountains (central Europe). The analyses are based on data obtained from four hydrological and two climatological stations. The Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) machine learning model was used to quantitatively separate the effects of climate change from the effects arising from the operation of the dam reservoir. An analysis of the effects of reservoir operation on the phase synchronization between air and river water temperatures based on a continuous wavelet transform was also conducted. The analyses showed that there has been an increase in the average air temperature of the study area in November by 1.2 °C per decade (over the period 1984–2016), accompanied by an increase in winter water temperature of 0.3 °C per decade over the same period. As water and air temperatures associated with the river not influenced by the reservoir increased, there was a simultaneous reduction in the duration of ice cover, reaching nine days per decade. The river influenced by the dam reservoir showed a 1.05 °C increase in winter water temperature from the period 1994–2007 to the period 1981–1994, for which the operation of the reservoir was 65% responsible and climatic conditions were 35% responsible. As a result of the reservoir operation, the synchronization of air and water temperatures was disrupted. Increasing water temperatures resulted in a reduction in the average annual number of days with ice cover (by 27.3 days), for which the operation of the dam reservoir was 77.5% responsible, while climatic conditions were 22.5% responsible.
Spontaneous spinal hematomas: A case series
Authors: Albrecht Carolin , Boeckh-Behrens Tobias , Schwarting Julian , Wostrack Maria , Meyer Bernhard , Joerger Ann-Kathrin
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Spontaneous spinal hematoma (SSH), a rare neurological disorder, demands immediate diagnostic evaluation and intervention to prevent lasting deficits. This case series analyzes instances, particularly highlighting cases where vascular causes were identified despite inconclusive initial imaging.

Methods

In a retrospective study of 20 patients treated for SSH at a Level I spine center from 01/01/2017 to 11/15/2023, we examined demographics, clinical presentation, imaging, and treatment details. Excluding traumatic cases, we present 4 instances of SSH associated with diverse vascular pathologies.

Results

Patient ages ranged from 39 to 85 years, with a median age of 66 years. 45% were male, and 55% were female. Among 20 cases, 14 were epidural hematomas, 4 subdural, 1 combined epidural and subdural, and 1 subarachnoid hemorrhage. 85% presented with neurological deficits, while 3 solely had pain-related symptoms. 55% were under anticoagulant medication, and vascular anomalies were found in 25% of cases. The cause of SSH remained unclear in 20% of cases. MRI was performed for all patients, and DSA was conducted in 25% of cases. The 4 highlighted cases involved individuals with distinct vascular pathologies managed surgically.

Conclusion

Urgent attention is crucial for SSH due to possible lasting neurological consequences. The study emphasizes comprehensive diagnostics and surgical exploration, especially in cases with unclear etiology, to identify and address vascular causes, preventing hematoma progression or recurrence. Despite their rarity, vascular malformations contributing to spinal hematomas warrant particular attention.
Laser-patterning bacterial nanocellulose for cell-controlled interaction
Authors: Costa Lígia , Carvalho Alexandre F. , Silva-Carvalho Ricardo , Rodrigues Ana Cristina , Dourado Fernando , Deuermeier Jonas , Neto Miguel A. , Fernandes António J. S. , Gama Miguel , Costa Florinda M.
Published: August 2024

The interfacial topography of biomaterials has been identified as a major biophysical regulator of cell behavior and function, a role played through the interplay with biochemical cues. In this work, we demonstrate the potential of laser as a versatile technology for the direct fine-tuning of the topography of Bacterial nanocellulose (BNC) with bioinspired topographies and micropatterns on a cell size scale. Two lasers were used, with different wavelengths—IR (CO2, 10600 nm) and UV (tripled Nd: YVO4, 355 nm) —attempting to reproduce the Pitcher-plant topography and to create cell-contact guidance patterns, respectively. Different topographies with parallel grooves featuring a 20–300 μm period were generated on the BNC surface with high fidelity and reliability of the generated microstructures, as demonstrated by 3D optical profilometry and scanning electron microscopy. Moreover, it was demonstrated by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy that laser processing does not result in detectable chemical modification of BNC. The developed anisotropic microstructures can control cell behavior, particularly regarding morphology, alignment, and spatial distribution. Thus, this proof-of-concept study on the high-resolution laser patterning of BNC opens new perspectives for the development of cell-modulating laser-engineered BNC interfaces, scaffolds, and other advanced medical devices, which can potentially broaden the application of BNC in the biomedical field.
Electromagnetic Subsurface Imaging in the Presence of Metallic Structures: A Review of Numerical Strategies
Authors: Castillo-Reyes Octavio , Queralt Pilar , Piñas-Varas Perla , Ledo Juanjo , Rojas Otilio
Published: August 2024

Electromagnetic (EM) imaging aims to produce large-scale, high-resolution soil conductivity maps that provide essential information for Earth subsurface exploration. To rigorously generate EM subsurface models, one must address both the forward problem and the inverse problem. From these subsurface resistivity maps, also referred to as volumes of resistivity distribution, it is possible to extract useful information (lithology, temperature, porosity, permeability, among others) to improve our knowledge about geo-resources on which modern society depends (e.g., energy, groundwater, and raw materials, among others). However, this ability to detect electrical resistivity contrasts also makes EM imaging techniques sensitive to metallic structures whose EM footprint often exceeds their diminutive stature compared to surrounding materials. Depending on target applications, this behavior can be advantageous or disadvantageous. In this work, we review EM modeling and inverse solutions in the presence of metallic structures, emphasizing how these structures affect EM data acquisition and interpretation. By addressing the challenges posed by metallic structures, our aim is to enhance the accuracy and reliability of subsurface EM characterization, ultimately leading to improved management of geo-resources and environmental monitoring. Here, we consider the latter through the lens of a triple helix approach: physics behind metallic structures in EM modeling and imaging, development of computational tools (conventional strategies and artificial intelligence schemes), and configurations and applications. The literature review shows that, despite recent scientific advancements, EM imaging techniques are still being developed, as are software-based data processing and interpretation tools. Such progress must address geological complexities and metallic casing measurements integrity in increasing detail setups. We hope this review will provide inspiration for researchers to study the fascinating EM problem, as well as establishing a robust technological ecosystem to those interested in studying EM fields affected by metallic artifacts.
Combined Effects of Social Exclusion and Social Rank Feedback on Risky Decision-Making Across Adolescence
Authors: Lorenz Corinna , Ferdinand Nicola K.
Published: August 2024

Adolescents’ need to belong and concerns about social status are thought to increase risk-taking, however, not much is known about how feedback about social rank and the effects of social exclusion moderate risky decision-making. To this end, the present study examined how social rank feedback moderates the effects of social exclusion on risky decisions during adolescence. The experimental study included a total of 122 participants (11–19 years; 44% female). Participants were randomly assigned to receive either individual or social rank feedback in the Columbia Card Task after social inclusion and exclusion via the Cyberball paradigm. Contrary to expectations, social exclusion led to more cautious decision-making. Mid-adolescents were most influenced by the combination of social exclusion and social rank feedback, while late adolescents became more cautious with individual feedback. These findings suggest that peer influences also have adaptive effects, increasing sensitivity to risk information, with developmental differences in the role of social rank.
The Influence of Descriptive Representation on Support for Judicial Nominees and the US Supreme Court
Authors: Armaly Miles T. , Krewson Christopher N. , Lane Elizabeth A.
Published: August 2024

We argue that characteristics of unelected officials directly influence individuals’ perceptions and evaluations of them. These evaluations then have indirect, downstream consequences on evaluations of the institution. To test this, we fielded a unique survey with an oversample of Black Americans after the nomination of Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson to the Supreme Court. Using a conjoint experimental design to randomize nominee race, we find that increased racial descriptive representation elicits more favorable views of the nominee and Court among Black respondents. Causal mediation analysis confirms our theoretical expectation that descriptive representation indirectly influences views of the Court through its effects on views of nominees. The effects we uncover are not confined to co-partisan nominees, indicating that descriptive representation may matter for more than policy reasons alone. Finally, our external validity test suggests these effects generalize beyond our experimental setting, with Black (but not white) respondents equally as supportive of an anonymous profile matching Justice Jackson’s characteristics as they are of Jackson herself.
Long-term (10-year) monitoring of transposon-mediated transgenic cattle
Authors: Yum Soo-Young , Choi Bae Young , Gim Gyeong-Min , Eom Kyeong-Hyeon , Lee Seong-Beom , Kim Daehyun , Lim Euntaek , Kim Do-Yoon , Heo Seong-Eun , Shim Donghwan , Jang Goo
Published: August 2024

The production of transgenic animals using non-viral methods has raised questions regarding their long-term health and genomic stability. In this study, we evaluated these aspects in transgenic cattle over ten years, using transposon-mediated gene transfer. Our longitudinal analysis included a comprehensive health assessment and whole-genome DNA resequencing. We found no significant alterations in physiological parameters or health complications in transposon-mediated transgenic cattle that exceeded 10 years of age. Genomic analysis revealed that the rates of somatic mutations and copy number variations in transgenic cattle were comparable to those in non-transgenic cattle. Furthermore, structural variants were infrequent, suggesting that transposon-mediated gene insertion did not compromise genomic integrity. These findings highlight the viability of transposon systems for generating transgenic livestock, potentially expanding their applications in agriculture and biotechnology. This study contributes significantly to our understanding of the long-term implications of transgenesis in large animals and supports the safety and stability of this method.
Accuracy is not enough: a heterogeneous ensemble model versus FGSM attack
Authors: Elsheikh Reham A. , Mohamed M. A. , Abou-Taleb Ahmed Mohamed , Ata Mohamed Maher
Published: August 2024

In this paper, based on facial landmark approaches, the possible vulnerability of ensemble algorithms to the FGSM attack has been assessed using three commonly used models: convolutional neural network-based antialiasing (A_CNN), Xc_Deep2-based DeepLab v2, and SqueezeNet (Squ_Net)-based Fire modules. Firstly, the three individual deep learning classifier-based Facial Emotion Recognition (FER) classifications have been developed; the predictions from all three classifiers are then merged using majority voting to develop the HEM_Net-based ensemble model. Following that, an in-depth investigation of their performance in the case of attack-free has been carried out in terms of the Jaccard coefficient, accuracy, precision, recall, F1 score, and specificity. When applied to three benchmark datasets, the ensemble-based method (HEM_Net) significantly outperforms in terms of precision and reliability while also decreasing the dimensionality of the input data, with an accuracy of 99.3%, 87%, and 99% for the Extended Cohn-Kanade (CK+), Real-world Affective Face (RafD), and Japanese female facial expressions (Jaffee) data, respectively. Further, a comprehensive analysis of the drop in performance of every model affected by the FGSM attack is carried out over a range of epsilon values (the perturbation parameter). The results from the experiments show that the advised HEM_Net model accuracy declined drastically by 59.72% for CK + data, 42.53% for RafD images, and 48.49% for the Jaffee dataset when the perturbation increased from A to E (attack levels). This demonstrated that a successful Fast Gradient Sign Method (FGSM) can significantly reduce the prediction performance of all individual classifiers with an increase in attack levels. However, due to the majority voting, the proposed HEM_Net model could improve its robustness against FGSM attacks, indicating that the ensemble can lessen deception by FGSM adversarial instances. This generally holds even as the perturbation level of the FGSM attack increases.
SIR epidemics in interconnected networks: threshold curve and phase transition
Authors: Das Saswata , Samaei Mohammad Hossein , Scoglio Caterina
Published: August 2024

For simplicity of mathematical modeling of epidemic spreading, the assumption is that hosts have identical rates of disease-causing contacts. However, in the real world, the scenario is different. The network-based framework allows us to capture the complex interdependencies and structural heterogeneity present in real-world systems. We examine two distinct scenarios involving the dynamics of susceptible-infected-recovered (SIR) in interconnected networks. In the first part, we show how the epidemic threshold of a contact network changes as a result of being coupled with another network for a fixed infection strength. The model employed in this work considers both the contact networks and interconnections as generic. We have depicted the epidemic threshold curve for interconnected networks, considering the assumption that the infection could be initially present in either one or both of the networks. If the normalized infection strengths are above the threshold curve, the infection spreads, whereas if the normalized infection strengths are below the threshold curve, the disease does not spread. This is true for any level of interconnection. In the second part, we investigate the spillover phenomenon, where the disease in a novel host population network comes from a reservoir network. We have observed a clear phase transition when the number of links or the inter-network infection rate exceeds a certain threshold, keeping all other parameters constant. We observe two regimes for spillover: a major spillover region and a minor spillover region based on interpopulation links (fraction of links between two networks) and inter-network infection strength (infection rate between reservoir and host network). If the interpopulation links and inter-network infection strength are in the major spillover region, the spillover probability is high, while if the former parameters are in the minor spillover region, the spillover probability is low. When the number of infected individuals within a reservoir network is nearly equal, and the inter-network infection strength remains constant, the threshold number of links required to achieve the spillover threshold condition varies based on the network topology. Overall, this work contributes to the understanding of SIR dynamics in interconnected networks and sheds light on the behavior of epidemics in complex systems.
Exploring the Landscape of Home-Based Teleradiology in Japan: A Qualitative Analysis of Radiologists’ and Neurosurgeons’ Experiences to Elucidate Advantages, Challenges, and Future Directions
Authors: Ueki Shinya , Kaneda Yudai , Ozaki Akihiko , Kotera Yasuhiro , Tanimoto Tetsuya , Omoto Yuka , Kurosaki Kana , Yamazaki Hiroki , Yoshida Takahito , Mizoue Nozomi , Yoshimura Hiroki , Hayashi Yuka , Shimamura Yasuteru
Published: August 2024

This study aimed to investigate the advantages, disadvantages, working methods, and support needs of physicians practicing teleradiology from home in Japan, as well as to explore challenges related to the COVID-19 pandemic. We conducted semi-structured interviews with 15 physicians (12 radiologists and 3 neurosurgeons) engaged in teleradiology services. Participants were recruited through purposive sampling to ensure diversity in age, gender, and experience. Data were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis following Braun and Clarke’s six-step approach. Five main themes were generated: (1) the ability to work from home according to one’s lifestyle, allowing for better work-life balance; (2) reduced quality and efficiency of reading work, due to limited patient information and lack of immediate consultation; (3) self-management and reliance on available resources, including literature searches and networking with colleagues; (4) need for comfortable infrastructure facilities, such as high-quality monitors and stable internet connections; and (5) provision of resources to resolve questions and concerns, including platforms for peer discussions. Interestingly, no specific themes related to the COVID-19 pandemic were identified, suggesting that the challenges of teleradiology were not uniquely affected by the pandemic. While home-based teleradiology offers lifestyle flexibility, it presents challenges in maintaining work quality and efficiency. Physicians employ self-management strategies and rely on available resources to mitigate these challenges. The findings highlight the need for improved infrastructure and support systems to enhance the practice of home-based teleradiology in Japan. This study contributes to the growing body of literature on remote healthcare delivery and may inform policy decisions and best practices in diagnostic radiology both in Japan and internationally.
Multiple Sliding Modes Enlarge Basins of Attraction in Switched Control Systems
Authors: Erazo Ordonez Christian , Díaz Nelson L. , Jutinico Andres
Published: August 2024

This paper investigates the role of hidden dynamics in influencing the stability of sliding solutions within control-switched systems. By employing cell-mapping methods, we provide numerical evidence that incorporating hidden dynamics on the switching manifold can extend the sliding dynamics, resulting in a significant expansion of the system’s region of attraction. As representative examples, we considered control systems with stable and unstable dynamics converging around multiple equilibrium points.
Implications of public policies performance on social inequality worldwide
Authors: Qandeel Mahmoud Salameh
Published: August 2024

This study probes the linkage between public policy (represented by GDP growth, inflation, CO2 emissions, and unemployment factors) and social inequality indicators, paying attention to economic, environmental, and social elements. The study questions the impact of these policies on overall social inequality as one measure and its separate dimensions, which are gender, income, education, and life expectancy, whereas data was gathered between 2010 and 2021 from the World Bank and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) for 139 countries. The linear regression revealed a significant relationship that explained 51% of the variance in overall social inequality, except for unemployment. Regarding separate dimensions of social inequality, the findings point out that GDP growth and inflation both affect life and gender inequality, whereas unemployment only affects income inequality; on the other hand, the CO2 emissions factor has an inverse effect on all dimensions of inequality (income, life expectancy, education, and gender inequalities). Considering the implications, increased CO2 emissions would reduce income inequality by boosting job creation, but they also pose environmental and health hazards, necessitating sustainable development strategies. Rising unemployment exacerbates income distribution, demonstrating the need for policies that enhance job stability and reduce inequality. Additionally, it necessitates investing in healthcare and education, eradicating gender inequality, and implementing sustainable strategies to foster economic growth while considering the consequences of inflation on life and gender justice. Thus, realizing these principles would build a sustainable and equitable society that balances economic enhancement with environmental protection and achieves equal opportunity.
A compact combination of second-kind Chebyshev polynomials for Robin boundary value problems and Bratu-type equations
Authors: Sayed S. M. , Mohamed A. S. , Abo-Eldahab E. M. , Youssri Y. H.
Published: August 2024

This paper presents a new algorithm for resolving linear and non-linear second-order Robin boundary value problems (BVPS) and the Bratu-type equations in one and two dimensions using spectral approaches. Basis functions according to second-kind shifted and modified shifted Chebyshev polynomials that comply with the Robin conditions are created. It has produced operational matrices for its derivatives. The provided solutions are the result of applying the collocation and tau approaches. These methods convert the problem dictated by its boundary conditions into a system of linear or non-linear algebraic equations that may be solved using any suitable numerical solver. Convergence analysis has been provided and it accords with the numerical results. Six numerical problems are provided to investigate and demonstrate the practical utility of the suggested method. The current results show that our method outperforms the previous methods in terms of accuracy which are presented in tables and figures.