bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electron beam powder bed fusion of Ti-6Al-2Sn-4Zr-2Mo lattice structures: morphometrical and mechanical characterisations
Authors: Galati Manuela , Giordano Massimo , Saboori Abdollah , Defanti Silvio
Published: February 2024

Metallic light and complex structures, such as lattice, made by Ti-6Al-2Sn-4Zr-2Mo (Ti6242) have potential applications in many different industries, especially in light and high-temperature-resistant aerospace and aeronautical components. An advantage of the electron beam powder bed fusion (PBF-EB) process over conventional and other additive manufacturing processes is the ability to fabricate lattice structures easily. However, the control of the effect of the manufacturing process for fabricating such small features is central to define the structure’s mechanical properties. This work investigates the effects of PBF-EB parameters on the geometrical quality of Ti6242 lattice structures. The selected cell consists of 12 rhombic areas connected by 24 struts joined in 12 vertices. The structures were produced in two cell sizes and two strut diameters under nine different process sets. X-ray computed tomography and scanning electron microscopy analyses were used to characterise the morphometrical parameters of each as-built cell and the interlayer integrity of the struts. Evolution under compressive loads was used to determine the mechanical properties of the lattice structures and the failure mechanism underlying the influence of process parameters on the mechanical properties. The as-built Ti6242 lattices were well-formed without voids and cracks. The outcomes revealed a significant effect of the considered lattice structure and process setup on the morphometric parameters. Even minor variations of the main processing parameters considerably impacted the mechanical properties of the structure.
Anti-inflammatory activity of benidipine hydrochloride in LPS-activated mammalian macrophages
Authors: Servi Hülya , Korkmaz Tanya Beril , Ayaz Furkan
Published: February 2024

Benidipine hydrochloride (BH), a medication frequently used by the hypertension patients, acts as a calcium channel blocker. However, its effects on the macrophages have not been investigated thus far. Our goal was investigating the effect of the benidipine hydrochloride to modulate the J774.2 murine macrophage cells inflammatory activity. Our results suggest that in the absence of a standard stimulating agent (LPS) BH did not stimulate the macrophages to produce pro-inflammatory IL-12p40, TNF-α, GM-CSF and IL-6 cytokines. However, when BH was administrated to the cells in the presence of LPS as stimulating agent, it reduced the production of these pro-inflammatory cytokines. Therefore, it had anti-inflammatory activity. At the clinical setting this study suggests that BH can be utilized as hypertension drug that can suppress the inflammation associated with it.
Medium-Term Outcomes of Stent Therapy for Aortic Coarctation in Children Under 30 kg with New Generation Low-Profile Stents: A Follow-Up Study of a Single Centre Experience
Authors: Gibb Jack J. C. , Kim Wan Cheol , Barlatay Francisco Gonzalez , Tometzki Andrew , Pateman Alan , Caputo Massimo , Taliotis Demetris
Published: February 2024

We previously reported short-term outcomes for stenting of aortic coarctation (CoA) (native or re-coarctation) with newer generation low-profile stents (Valeo, Formula, and Begraft stents) in children under 30 kg. We present here the medium-term outcomes of this procedure. Retrospective review of patients weighing under 30 kg who had percutaneous stent treatments for coarctation between 2012 and 2021 was performed. Clinical and procedural data were collected; 19 patients were included. The median age at the time of procedure was 5.1 [4.1–6.4] years and median weight 21.0 [17.3–22.3] kg. One patient had a history of re-coarctation. Thirteen (68%) patients were on anti-hypertensives pre-procedure. Different types of stents were used (14 Valeo™, 4 Formula® 535, 1 BeGraft), which can all be dilated to 18 mm or larger. One patient required a 9 F sheath, all others required a 7 F sheath. The narrowest diameter in the aorta increased from a median of 3.5 [3.0–4.5] to 9.4 [8.9–9.8] mm, p < 0.001; there was a reduction in the median pressure gradient across the coarctation from 35.0 [30.0–43.0] to 5.0 [0–10.0] mmHg, p < 0.001. There were no intra-procedural complications. Follow-up was for a median of 56.0 [13.0–65.0] months. Five (26%) of patients underwent re-intervention after a median time frame of 40.0 [39.5–52.0] months; four had balloon dilation, one had repeat stent implantation. Five (26%) patients were on anti-hypertensive agent(s) post-intervention. Our single centre experience demonstrates that percutaneous stenting for coarctation of aorta in children under 30 kg, with low-profile stents, had no significant complications during the median follow-up time of 56 months. This study demonstrated that the procedure is safe and effective for short and medium-term therapy in this group of patients with a 26% re-intervention rate. A quarter of patients remained on anti-hypertensive medication post stenting, emphasizing the importance of long-term follow-up.
Chin Augmentation and Treatment of Chin Retrusion with a Flexible Hyaluronic Acid Filler in Asian Subjects: A Randomized, Controlled, Evaluator-Blinded Study
Authors: Xie Yun , Zhao Hongyi , Wu Wenyu , Xu Jinhua , Li Bi , Wu Sufan , Chen Kevin , Bromée Torun , Li Qingfeng
Published: February 2024

Background

Aesthetic improvement of the chin is increasingly requested by patients, including those of Chinese origin.

Methods

A randomized, evaluator-blinded, no-treatment controlled study evaluated the effectiveness and safety of a flexible hyaluronic acid (HA) filler, Restylane® DefyneTM (HADEF), in the correction of chin retrusion in a Chinese adult population over 12 months after treatment. On Day 1, subjects were randomized 3:1 into two groups, HADEF or delayed-treatment controls, and those in the HADEF group were administered treatment. An optional touch-up treatment was administered 1 month after treatment to obtain optimal chin augmentation. The initially untreated control group was offered delayed-treatment after 6 months (including 1-month touch-up).

Results

HADEF was superior to no-treatment in improving chin retrusion according to the blinded evaluator at 6 months [Galderma Chin Retrusion Scale (GCRS) responder rate (≥ 1-point improvement from baseline) of 81% vs. 5% for untreated controls; p < 0.001, meeting the primary effectiveness objective. A majority of subjects maintained improvement at 12 months (61% in the HADEF group). All subjects reported satisfaction with results at 6 months after treatment with HADEF and aesthetic improvement rates per the global aesthetic improvement scale (GAIS) were high for 12 months following treatment, with an acceptable safety profile.

Conclusions

These results demonstrated HADEF to be effective and safe for the correction of mild-to-moderate chin retrusion in Chinese subjects, confirming findings previously observed in a western population.

Level of Evidence I

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266.
Low-temperature magnetic behavior of isocubanite from seafloor hydrothermal deposits in the Okinawa Trough
Authors: Kato Chie , Ohno Masao , Hatakeyama Tadahiro , Yamada Yasuhiro , Honda Fuminori , Shimada Kazuhiko , Nagase Toshiro , Totsuka-Shiiki Shuhei , Kuwahara Yoshihiro , Ishibashi Jun-ichiro
Published: February 2024

The characteristic behavior of magnetic remanence correlated with mineralogical textures and composition was observed using low-temperature magnetometry, microscopy, and chemical analysis of three isocubanite samples collected from hydrothermal deposits in the Okinawa Trough and a sample transformed from natural cubanite via heating. Both zero-field remanence acquired at 5 K and field cooling remanence acquired at 300–5 K of all samples sharply decreased with increasing temperature at approximately 100 K. In addition, low-temperature cycling of isothermal remanence at 300 K exhibited a transition at approximately 100 K; remanence increased with decreasing temperature and vice versa. The intensity of remanence at low temperature and sharpness of the transition varied across samples with different compositions and microscopic textures, that is, the presence or absence of chalcopyrite lamellae and their widths. The sample obtained from a hydrothermal chimney, in which the magnetic transition was most clearly observed, was also subjected to X-ray diffraction, Mössbauer spectroscopy, electrical resistivity, and magnetic hysteresis measurements. The obtained results were generally consistent with those reported previously for unnamed mineral CuFe3S4 with an ordered cation arrangement. The low-temperature magnetic behavior of isocubanite possibly depends on the degree of cation ordering and can be regarded as an indicator of chemical composition and cooling history. Therefore, low-temperature magnetometry is useful for the detection of isocubanite and a potentially powerful technique for the prompt estimation of its composition and texture, contributing to our understanding of the formation process of hydrothermal deposits.
Plant biomarkers as early detection tools in stress management in food crops: a review
Authors: Aina Omolola , Bakare Olalekan O. , Fadaka Adewale O. , Keyster Marshall , Klein Ashwil
Published: February 2024

Main conclusion

Plant Biomarkers are objective indicators of a plant’s cellular state in response to abiotic and biotic stress factors. They can be explored in crop breeding and engineering to produce stress-tolerant crop species.

Global food production safely and sustainably remains a top priority to feed the ever-growing human population, expected to reach 10 billion by 2050. However, abiotic and biotic stress factors negatively impact food production systems, causing between 70 and 100% reduction in crop yield. Understanding the plant stress responses is critical for developing novel crops that can adapt better to various adverse environmental conditions. Using plant biomarkers as measurable indicators of a plant’s cellular response to external stimuli could serve as early warning signals to detect stresses before severe damage occurs. Plant biomarkers have received considerable attention in the last decade as pre-stress indicators for various economically important food crops. This review discusses some biomarkers associated with abiotic and biotic stress conditions and highlights their importance in developing stress-resilient crops. In addition, we highlighted some factors influencing the expression of biomarkers in crop plants under stress. The information presented in this review would educate plant researchers, breeders, and agronomists on the significance of plant biomarkers in stress biology research, which is essential for improving plant growth and yield toward sustainable food production.
Detection of the DNA methylation of seven genes contribute to the early diagnosis of lung cancer
Authors: Du Chaoxiang , Tan Lijie , Xiao Xiao , Xin Beibei , Xiong Hui , Zhang Yuying , Ke Zhonghe , Yin Jun
Published: February 2024

Background

Low-dose Computed Tomography (CT) is used for the detection of pulmonary nodules, but the ambiguous risk evaluation causes overdiagnosis. Here, we explored the significance of the DNA methylation of 7 genes including TAC1, CDO1, HOXA9, ZFP42, SOX17, RASSF1A and SHOX2 in the blood cfDNA samples in distinguishing lung cancer from benign nodules and healthy individuals.

Method

A total of 149 lung cancer patients [72 mass and 77 ground-glass nodules (GGNs)], 5 benign and 48 healthy individuals were tested and analyzed in this study. The lasso-logistic regression model was built for distinguishing cancer and control/healthy individuals or IA lung cancer and non-IA lung cancer cases.

Results

The positive rates of methylation of 7 genes were higher in the cancer group as compared with the healthy group. We constructed a model using age, sex and the ΔCt value of 7 gene methylation to distinguish lung cancer from benign and healthy individuals. The sensitivity, specificity and AUC (area under the curve) were 86.7%, 81.4% and 0.891, respectively. Also, we assessed the significance of 7 gene methylation together with patients’ age and sex in distinguishing of GGNs type from the mass type. The sensitivity, specificity and AUC were 77.1%, 65.8% and 0.753, respectively. Furthermore, the methylation positive rates of CDO1 and SHOX2 were different between I-IV stages of lung cancer. Specifically, the positive rate of CDO1 methylation was higher in the non-IA group as compared with the IA group.

Conclusion

Collectively, this study reveals that the methylation of 7 genes has a big significance in the diagnosis of lung cancer with high sensitivity and specificity. Also, the 7 genes present with certain significance in distinguishing the GGN type lung cancer, as well as different stages.
Quran reciter identification using NASNetLarge
Authors: Saber Hebat-Allah , Younes Ahmed , Osman Mohamed , Elkabani Islam
Published: February 2024

Speaker identification has significant advantages for the field of human–computer interaction. Recently, many scholars have made contributions in this field and successfully created deep learning models for automatic speaker identification systems. However, most of the speech signal processing work is limited to English-only applications, despite numerous challenges with Arabic speech, particularly with the recitation of the Holy Quran, which is the Islamic holy book. In the light of these considerations, this study proposes a model for identifying the reciter of the Holy Quran using a dataset of 11,000 audio samples extracted from 20 Quran reciters. To enable feeding the audio samples' visual representation to the pre-trained models, the audio samples are converted from their original audio representation to visual representation using the Mel-Frequency Cepstrum Coefficients. Six pre-trained deep learning models are evaluated separately in the proposed model. The results from the test dataset reveal that the NASNetLarge model achieved the highest accuracy rate of 98.50% among the pre-trained models used in this study.
Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) as adjunct for planning laser interstitial thermal therapy (LITT) near eloquent structures
Authors: Rifi Ziad , Harary Maya , Walshaw Patricia D. , Frew Andrew J. , Everson Richard G. , Fallah Aria , Salamon Noriko , Kim Won
Published: February 2024

LITT is a minimally-invasive laser ablation technique used to treat a wide variety of intracranial lesions. Difficulties performing intraoperative mapping have limited its adoption for lesions in/near eloquent regions. In this institutional case series, we demonstrate the utility of fMRI-adjunct planning for LITT near language or motor areas. Six out of 7 patients proceeded with LITT after fMRI-based tractography determined adequate safety margins for ablation. All underwent successful ablation without new or worsening postoperative symptoms requiring adjuvant corticosteroids, including those with preexisting deficits. fMRI is an easily accessible adjunct which may potentially reduce chances of complications in LITT near eloquent structures.
The muscle protein synthetic response following corn protein ingestion does not differ from milk protein in healthy, young adults
Authors: Pinckaers Philippe J. M. , Weijzen Michelle E. G. , Houben Lisanne H. P. , Zorenc Antoine H. , Kouw Imre W. K. , de Groot Lisette C. P. G. M. , Verdijk Lex. B. , Snijders Tim , van Loon Luc J. C.
Published: February 2024

Plant-derived proteins are generally believed to possess lesser anabolic properties when compared with animal-derived proteins. This is, at least partly, attributed to the lower leucine content of most plant-derived proteins. Corn protein has a leucine content that is highest among most plant-derived proteins and it even exceeds the levels observed in animal-derived proteins such as whey protein. Therefore, this study aimed to compare muscle protein synthesis rates following the ingestion of 30 g corn protein and a 30 g blend of corn plus milk protein with 30 g milk protein. In a randomized, double blind, parallel-group design, 36 healthy young males (26 ± 4 y) received primed continuous L-[ring-13C6]-phenylalanine infusions and ingested 30 g corn protein (CORN), 30 g milk protein (MILK), or a 30 g proteinblend with 15 g corn plus 15 g milk protein (CORN + MILK). Blood and muscle biopsies were collected for 5 h following protein ingestion to assess post-prandial plasma amino acid profiles and myofibrillar protein synthesis rates. The results show that Ingestion of protein increased myofibrillar protein synthesis rates from basal post-absorptive values in all treatments(P < 0.001). Post-prandial myofibrillar protein synthesis rates did not differ between CORN vs MILK (0.053 ± 0.013 vs 0.053 ± 0.013%∙h−1, respectively; t-test P = 0.90), or between CORN + MILK vs MILK (0.052 ± 0.024 vs 0.053 ± 0.013%∙h−1, respectively; t-test P = 0.92). Ingestion of 30 g corn protein, 30 g milk protein, or a blend of 15 g corn plus 15 g milk protein robustly increases muscle protein synthesis rates in young males. The muscle protein synthetic response to the ingestion of 30 g corn-derived protein does not differ from the ingestion of an equivalent amount of milk protein in healthy, young males. Clinical Trial Registry number. NTR6548 (registration date: 27–06-2017) https://www.trialregister.nl/.
Post-graduation career pathways: a nationwide survey among dental students in Germany
Authors: Thiem Daniel G. E. , Puladi Behrus , Seifert Lukas , Becker Philipp , Bjelopavlovic Monika , Magennis Patrick , Wiltfang Jörg , Warwas Felix Benjamin
Published: February 2024

Objectives

Oral and maxillofacial surgery (OMFS) has to compete with other specialties for the best candidates. With the upcoming change of generations (Z and Alpha) and the movement toward gender parity of dentistry, understanding changing preferences and misconceptions is essential.

Material and methods

An online survey was conducted by the German-Association-of-Oral-and-Maxillofacial-Surgery (DGMKG) across German dental schools. The survey collected demographic data, academic background, and career aspirations, with a focus on OMFS. The dental student survey results were compared to a survey given to OMFS Specialists.

Results

637 dental students, mainly female (70%), from 30 German universities participated. 27% had defined career aspirations post-graduation, with self-employment and academia being popular choices. 67% were unsure. Specializations leaned towards restorative dentistry (41%), orthodontics (36%), and prosthodontics (31%). While 73% showed interest in surgical practices, 20% were attracted in specializing in OMFS. Of those averse to OMFS, 78% cited long training duration as the deterrent, 12% were put off by perceived unattractive working hours. Other reasons included negative undergraduate experiences, scarcity of part-time positions, and perceived inadequate earnings.

Conclusion

Accurate data is crucial for career decisions. OMFS societies must proactively share accurate information and guide students. OMFS offers family-friendly hours, and while its training might be longer than dental specialties, it is on par with other surgical professions.

Clinical relevance

Dental students consistently regard OMFS as commendable career path. To guarantee sustained OMFS expertise, it is imperative to nurture this interest through dedicated academic mentorship and innovative education, thereby solidifying their professional direction.
Analysis of healthcare waste and factors affecting the amount of hazardous healthcare waste in a university hospital
Authors: Kaposi Adam , Nagy Attila , Gomori Gabriella , Kocsis Denes
Published: February 2024

The ever-increasing amount of waste produced by the healthcare system is a growing burden worldwide. To effectively reduce waste, it is essential to know exactly what it is and to explore the factors influencing its amount. This study aims to analyze the amount of healthcare waste (HCW) and the change in that amount over time, as well as to explore and quantify the factors that influence hazardous healthcare waste (HHCW) in a university hospital. Descriptive statistical analysis, Spearman’s correlation and robust regression were performed to characterize the data. Our analysis revealed that the amount of HCW has been increased annually by 2.11%, and the generation rate ranges between 2.53 and 2.68 kg/bed/day. The amount of HHCW has increased by 20.19% over the 5-year period studied, with a generation rate varying between 1.13 and 1.31 kg/bed/day. It was found that surgical specialisms, anesthesiology and intensive care, and emergency patient care have higher rates of hazardous waste production. A significant positive correlation was found between the amount of hazardous waste and the incidence of healthcare-associated infections (r = 0.704), and the number of diapers used by adults and children (r = 0.555), whose significant predictive role was also confirmed by the robust regression.
Improving the Reliability of Peer Review Without a Gold Standard
Authors: Äijö Tarmo , Elgort Daniel , Becker Murray , Herzog Richard , Brown Richard K. J. , Odry Benjamin L. , Vianu Ron
Published: February 2024

Peer review plays a crucial role in accreditation and credentialing processes as it can identify outliers and foster a peer learning approach, facilitating error analysis and knowledge sharing. However, traditional peer review methods may fall short in effectively addressing the interpretive variability among reviewing and primary reading radiologists, hindering scalability and effectiveness. Reducing this variability is key to enhancing the reliability of results and instilling confidence in the review process. In this paper, we propose a novel statistical approach called “Bayesian Inter-Reviewer Agreement Rate” (BIRAR) that integrates radiologist variability. By doing so, BIRAR aims to enhance the accuracy and consistency of peer review assessments, providing physicians involved in quality improvement and peer learning programs with valuable and reliable insights. A computer simulation was designed to assign predefined interpretive error rates to hypothetical interpreting and peer-reviewing radiologists. The Monte Carlo simulation then sampled (100 samples per experiment) the data that would be generated by peer reviews. The performances of BIRAR and four other peer review methods for measuring interpretive error rates were then evaluated, including a method that uses a gold standard diagnosis. Application of the BIRAR method resulted in 93% and 79% higher relative accuracy and 43% and 66% lower relative variability, compared to “Single/Standard” and “Majority Panel” peer review methods, respectively. Accuracy was defined by the median difference of Monte Carlo simulations between measured and pre-defined “actual” interpretive error rates. Variability was defined by the 95% CI around the median difference of Monte Carlo simulations between measured and pre-defined “actual” interpretive error rates. BIRAR is a practical and scalable peer review method that produces more accurate and less variable assessments of interpretive quality by accounting for variability within the group’s radiologists, implicitly applying a standard derived from the level of consensus within the group across various types of interpretive findings.
Patterns of variability in the structure of global value chains: a network analysis
Authors: Piccardi Carlo , Tajoli Lucia , Vitali Riccardo
Published: February 2024

Global Value Chains (GVCs) are a feature of the organization of production in many sectors and countries and they deeply affect international trade patterns. How far the separation of production stages—generating increasingly widespread GVCs—can go, is currently a matter of debate. The main focus of this paper is to investigate GVCs at the country-industry level by modelling them through the construction of a specific network and using network analysis tools. In particular, the aim is to propose a network-based measure of GVCs length to assess whether the structure of GVCs has stretched or shrank over time. Analyzing the evolution of these structures is important to better understand the role played by countries in the production chain, with implications also for their fragility or resilience in presence of external shocks. Our measure allows to consider differently shaped GVCs, and the results show that there are relevant differences among sectors and countries in terms of the evolution of GVCs, especially considering direct or indirect links. Overall, we find a general stability over time of GVCs, confirming the importance of the “relational approach” in GVCs. But the shifts in the geographical patterns of the connections also support the view that firms organizing this complex form of production are ready to grasp better opportunities when they appear in the global markets.
Relationship between GIX, SIDX, and ROTI ionospheric indices and GNSS precise positioning results under geomagnetic storms
Authors: Nykiel Grzegorz , Cahuasquí Juan Andrés , Hoque Mohammed Mainul , Jakowski Norbert
Published: February 2024

Ionospheric indices give information about ionospheric perturbations, which may cause absorption, diffraction, refraction, and scattering of radio signals, including those from global navigation satellite systems (GNSS). Therefore, there may be a relationship between index values and GNSS positioning results. A thorough understanding of ionospheric indices and their relationship to positioning results can help monitor and forecast the reliability and accuracy of GNSS positioning and support the precision and safety of life applications. In this study, we present the relationship between three indices: Gradient Ionosphere indeX (GIX), Sudden Ionospheric Disturbance indeX (SIDX), and Rate of Total electron content Index (ROTI) in relation to precise positioning results. We used two approaches: precise point positioning (PPP) and relative positioning for long baselines. We focus on GNSS stations located in Europe for two selected geomagnetic storms: March 17, 2015, and May 22, 2015. Our results show that in the case of PPP, positioning degradation occurred mainly at high latitudes and was mostly caused by rapid small-scale changes in ionospheric electron content represented by SIDX and ROTI. We also showed a significant correlation between cycle slips of GNSS signals and ROTI (0.88). The most significant degradations for relative positioning for low and medium latitudes were associated with large spatial gradients reflected by the GIX.
Plant–herbivore–natural enemy trophic webs in date palm agro-ecosystems
Authors: Shameer K. S. , Almandhari Tarik , Hardy Ian C. W.
Published: February 2024

Understanding the composition and dynamics of ecological communities is challenging because of the large number of organisms present and their numerous interactions. Among agricultural systems, intercropping considerably increases the complexity of communities compared to monocultures and alternative host plants can influence insect pest damage. Using literature records, we construct and analyse connectance trophic webs of date palm (Phoenix dactylifera) agro-ecosystems, including and excluding intercrops. Estimates of connectance (community complexity) are relatively low and little affected by consideration of intercrops. Plant–herbivore overlap is relatively high, suggesting that herbivores are typically not specialists. Herbivore–natural enemy overlap is greater when intercrops are considered, suggesting that diffuse apparent competition regulates pest populations. We pay particular attention to how trophic web structure might affect Batrachedra amydraula (Lesser date moth), an important economic pest. Records indicate it having 15 species of natural enemies and sharing 9 of these with other herbivores; these may maintain populations of natural enemies when the moth is seasonally rare, contributing to pest suppression. The estimated potential for apparent competition between the lesser date moth and other herbivores is higher when intercrops are considered. The consequent expectation of less severe infestations in plantations that are intercropped compared to monocultures matches empirically derived reports. Further, comparing results obtained from the literature on one country (Oman) and from 15 Middle Eastern countries, we find that community metric estimates are relatively little affected by the geographical scale considered. Overall, our results suggest that literature-based trophic web construction can provide an efficient and robust alternative, or in addition, to direct empirical methodologies and that the presence of intercrops will contribute to major pest suppression via indirect apparent competition.
Semi-Lagrangian finite element exterior calculus for incompressible flows
Authors: Tonnon Wouter , Hiptmair Ralf
Published: February 2024

We develop a semi-Lagrangian discretization of the time-dependent incompressible Navier-Stokes equations with free boundary conditions on arbitrary simplicial meshes. We recast the equations as a nonlinear transport problem for a momentum 1-form and discretize in space using methods from finite element exterior calculus. Numerical experiments show that the linearly implicit fully discrete version of the scheme enjoys excellent stability properties in the vanishing viscosity limit and is applicable to inviscid incompressible Euler flows. We obtain second-order convergence and conservation of energy is achieved through a Lagrange multiplier.
Intelligent deep learning techniques for energy consumption forecasting in smart buildings: a review
Authors: Mathumitha R. , Rathika P. , Manimala K.
Published: February 2024

Urbanization increases electricity demand due to population growth and economic activity. To meet consumer’s demands at all times, it is necessary to predict the future building energy consumption. Power Engineers could exploit the enormous amount of energy-related data from smart meters to plan power sector expansion. Researchers have made many experiments to address the supply and demand imbalance by accurately predicting the energy consumption. This paper presents a comprehensive literature review of forecasting methodologies used by researchers for energy consumption in smart buildings to meet future energy requirements. Different forecasting methods are being explored in both residential and non-residential buildings. The literature is further analyzed based on the dataset, types of load, prediction accuracy, and the evaluation metrics used. This work also focuses on the main challenges in energy forecasting due to load fluctuation, variability in weather, occupant behavior, and grid planning. The identified research gaps and the suitable methodology for prediction addressing the current issues are presented with reference to the available literature. The multivariate analysis in the suggested hybrid model ensures the learning of repeating patterns and features in the data to enhance the prediction accuracy.
Should I Stay or Should I Go? Auditor Ethical Conflict and Turnover Intention
Authors: Tormo-Carbó Guillermina , Mardawi Zeena , Seguí-Mas Elies
Published: February 2024

Ethical conflicts (ECs), dilemmas auditors face when personal values or professional obligations clash with their actions, pose significant challenges to the auditing profession, potentially influencing turnover intention (TI). This study addresses a knowledge gap in the related research by focusing on two critical EC triggers: workload (WL) and perceived auditor ethical failure (PAEF: ethical sensitivity), which refers to auditors’ perceptions of ethical violations within their profession. Grounded in role theory and ethical climate theory, our study investigates the impact of WL and PAEF on ECs and explores how these conflicts mediate the relationship between PAEF/WL and TI. Additionally, we examine the moderating role of organisational ethical climate (EtC) in these relationships. Using a survey of auditors and employing partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM), our results reveal that both WL and PAEF increase ECs, thus escalating TI. The findings suggest that a firm’s perceived EtC can negatively moderate the relationship between PAEF and ECs. The study underlines the importance of fostering a strong EtC to manage ECs effectively and provides valuable implications for professionals, regulators, and academics seeking to improve ethical practices within auditing firms and to reduce auditor turnover.
Neonatal IL-4 Over-Exposure is Accompanied by Macrophage Accumulation in Dura Mater After Instant Anti-inflammatory Cytokine Response in CSF
Authors: Wang Ling , Sha Haoran , He Xiaoyi , Xie Yinyin , Deng Jiapeng , Chen Jiexuan , Li Guoying , Yang Junhua
Published: February 2024

Multiple studies have shown that clinical events resulting into neonatal IL-4 over-exposure, such as asthma in early life and food allergy, were associated with brain damage and that the neuroinflammation induced by them might lead to cognitive impairments, anxiety-/depressive-like behaviors. IL-4 is the most major elevated cytokine in periphery when these clinical events occur and peripheral IL-4 level positively correlates with the severity of those events. Our previous studies have verified that neonatal IL-4 over-exposure induced a delayed neuroinflammatory damage in rodents, which might have adverse implications for brain development and cognition. Neuroinflammation in brain parenchyma is often accompanied by changes in CSF cytokines levels. However, whether the cytokines levels in CSF change after neonatal IL-4 over-exposure is unknown. Here, we found a delayed pro-inflammatory cytokines response (higher IL-6, IL-1β and, TNF levels) in both hippocampus and CSF after an instant anti-inflammatory cytokine response in IL-4 over-exposed rats. Moreover, the pro-inflammatory cytokines response appeared earlier in CSF than in hippocampus. The level of each of the pro-inflammatory cytokines in CSF positively correlated with that in hippocampus at the age of postnatal day 42. More microglia numbers/activation and higher M-CSF level in the hippocampus in IL-4 over-exposed rats were also observed. Furthermore, there were more macrophages with inflammatory activation in dural mater of IL-4 over-exposed rats. In sum, neonatal IL-4 over-exposure in rats induces delayed inflammation in CSF, suggesting CSF examination may serve as a potential method in predicting delayed neuroinflammation in brain following neonatal IL-4 over-exposure.

Graphical Abstract
A qualitative inquiry: management of recidivism in South Africa
Authors: Samuels Jerome A. , Roman Nicolette V. , Schoeman Marelize
Published: February 2024

At a high cost to the community and taxpayers, offenders frequently return to correctional facilities shortly after being released. In South Africa, the management of recidivism has not been researched extensively, and recidivism as a phenomenon has received scant attention. This study explores how the Department of Correctional Services in South Africa manages recidivism using the perspectives of staff and external stakeholders. A qualitative study was conducted with 19 Department of Correctional Services employees and ten external stakeholders. The findings postulate that South Africa’s Department of Correctional Services (1) lacks defined policy guidelines, processes, or structure for addressing recidivism; (2) suggests a gap in the system as departments work independently within the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security Cluster (JCPS), which includes, among others, the Departments of Police, Home Affairs, Justice and Correctional Services; (3) recommends that the computer systems of the JCPS be integrated to manage recidivism, and the use of a criminal record number for the detection of recidivists; (4) identifies a need for the development of policy, policy procedures, and guidelines for managing repeat offending; and (5) a need for coherent research on the management of recidivism of offenders within the Department of Correctional Services in South Africa.
Unmasking academic cheating behavior in the artificial intelligence era: Evidence from Vietnamese undergraduates
Authors: Nguyen Hung Manh , Goto Daisaku
Published: February 2024

The proliferation of artificial intelligence (AI) technology has brought both innovative opportunities and unprecedented challenges to the education sector. Although AI makes education more accessible and efficient, the intentional misuse of AI chatbots in facilitating academic cheating has become a growing concern. By using the indirect questioning technique via a list experiment to minimize social desirability bias, this research contributes to the ongoing dialog on academic integrity in the era of AI. Our findings reveal that students conceal AI-powered academic cheating behaviors when directly questioned, as the prevalence of cheaters observed via list experiments is almost threefold the prevalence of cheaters observed via the basic direct questioning approach. Interestingly, our subsample analysis shows that AI-powered academic cheating behaviors differ significantly across genders and grades, as higher-grade female students are more likely to cheat than newly enrolled female students. Conversely, male students consistently engage in academic cheating throughout all grades. Furthermore, we discuss potential reasons for the heterogeneous effects in academic cheating behavior among students such as gender disparity, academic-related pressure, and peer effects. Implications are also suggested for educational institutions to promote innovative approaches that harness the benefits of AI technologies while safeguarding academic integrity.
Forecasting monthly rainfall using hybrid time-series models and Monte Carlo simulation amidst security challenges: a case study of five districts from northern Nigeria
Authors: Danbatta Salim Jibrin , Muhammad Ahmad , Varol Asaf , Abdurrahaman Daha Tijjani
Published: February 2024

Nigeria’s agricultural sector relies heavily on rainfall, but insecurity in various regions poses significant challenges. This study aims to address this issue by identifying secure, rain-rich areas in northern Nigeria to support sustainable agriculture. Two models, one integrating classical statistical methods (polynomial and Fourier series fittings) and another using a hybrid approach (artificial neural networks, polynomial, and Fourier series fittings), were employed to analyze historical rainfall data from 1981 to 2021 in the selected districts (Kano, Zaria, Bida, Nguru, and Yelwa) known for their rainfall levels and security stability. The study demonstrates that the machine learning-classical hybrid model outperforms existing models, including the classical-classical hybrid and benchmark models like Iwok’s (2016) model, Fourier series, and SARIMA models. Multi-step ahead forecasting with this hybrid model reveals potential changes in rainfall patterns. Notably, Kano, Zaria, Bida, and Yelwa are expected to experience increased rainfall from 2022 to 2026, while Nguru may initially witness decreased rainfall, with improvement in the final year (2026). In conclusion, this study introduces an effective approach for rainfall modeling and forecasting, facilitating the identification of secure agricultural regions in northern Nigeria. These findings carry implications for crop production and agricultural development, contributing to climate resilience efforts and assisting stakeholders in strategic decision-making for regional agricultural investments.
Heatwave predicts a shady future for insects: impacts of an extreme weather event on a chalk grassland in Bedfordshire, UK
Authors: Hayes Matthew P. , Ashe-Jepson Esme , Hitchcock Gwen E. , Clark Ryan , Hellon Josh , Knock Richard I. , Bladon Andrew J. , Turner Edgar C.
Published: February 2024

Climate change is set to become one of the leading causes of biodiversity loss worldwide, with extreme weather events projected to increase in frequency. Ectothermic animals such as insects are at particular risk, especially when they are isolated and unable to move through the landscape to track suitable climate. To protect such taxa, it is important to understand how they are impacted by extreme weather events and whether management could provide effective microclimate refuges. However, potential management interventions remain untested for many species. Here, we show that the extreme high temperatures experienced in the UK on 19th July 2022 resulted in a community of butterflies becoming inactive, but that shaded areas, including artificial slopes created as part of conservation management for climate change, provided a refuge during this period. Our results indicate that future high temperatures could force butterflies to shelter in the shade, potentially being unable to fly, feed or mate during these periods, with possible long-term impacts, particularly if multiple consecutive high temperature days are experienced.
Development of collagenous scaffolds for wound healing: characterization and in vivo analysis
Authors: Rodrigues Jéssica Peixoto , da Costa Silva Jéssica Regina , Ferreira Bruno Antônio , Veloso Lucas Ian , Quirino Ludmila Sousa , Rosa Roberta Rezende , Barbosa Matheus Carvalho , Rodrigues Cláudia Mendonça , Gaspari Paula Batista Fernandes , Beletti Marcelo Emílio , Goulart Luiz Ricardo , Corrêa Natássia Caroline Resende
Published: February 2024

The development of wound dressings from biomaterials has been the subject of research due to their unique structural and functional characteristics. Proteins from animal origin, such as collagen and chitosan, act as promising materials for applications in injuries and chronic wounds, functioning as a repairing agent. This study aims to evaluate in vitro effects of scaffolds with different formulations containing bioactive compounds such as collagen, chitosan, N-acetylcysteine (NAC) and ε-poly-lysine (ε-PL). We manufactured a scaffold made of a collagen hydrogel bioconjugated with chitosan by crosslinking and addition of NAC and ε-PL. Cell viability was verified by resazurin and live/dead assays and the ultrastructure of biomaterials was evaluated by SEM. Antimicrobial sensitivity was assessed by antibiogram. The healing potential of the biomaterial was evaluated in vivo, in a model of healing of excisional wounds in mice. On the 7th day after the injury, the wounds and surrounding skin were processed for evaluation of biochemical and histological parameters associated with the inflammatory process. The results showed great cell viability and increase in porosity after crosslinking while antimicrobial action was observed in scaffolds containing NAC and ε-PL. Chitosan scaffolds bioconjugated with NAC/ε-PL showed improvement in tissue healing, with reduced lesion size and reduced inflammation. It is concluded that scaffolds crosslinked with chitosan-NAC-ε-PL have the desirable characteristics for tissue repair at low cost and could be considered promising biomaterials in the practice of regenerative medicine.

Graphical Abstract
Invasion of Pieris mannii butterflies across Central Europe facilitated by urbanization
Authors: Ruffener Simona C. , Matthey-de-l’Endroit Nathalie , Berner Daniel
Published: February 2024

Urbanization progresses world-wide and the frequency of biological invasions increases. Understanding to what extent urban environments facilitate biological invasions and how this affects ecosystems within and outside urbanized areas thus becomes crucial. We here examine the role of urban environments in the invasion of the butterfly Pieris mannii that expanded across Central Europe within the last two decades. Using standardized butterfly captures at paired urban and (semi)natural field sites within the invaded range in Switzerland, we demonstrate that P. mannii is strongly associated with cities and towns. At least in some urban localities, this species is now the most common butterfly, and densities tend to be particularly high where urban areas are large. Because urban habitats commonly provide non-native host plants and perhaps also the physical structure and microclimate suitable to this butterfly, urbanization has clearly promoted the species’ rapid invasion. Studying phenology over an entire season, we further infer that P. mannii has up to six generations per year, which may allow the species to adjust its life cycle to changing season length during northward expansion. Overall, our study demonstrates how preadaptation to urbanized environments in a relatively specialized insect increases urban biodiversity on a large geographic scale.
Design principles for sustainable community currency projects
Authors: Diniz Eduardo H. , de Araujo Marcelo Henrique , Alves Mario Aquino , Gonzalez Lauro
Published: February 2024

Community currencies (CCs) are alternative forms of money usually issued and managed by citizens, NGOs and companies as well as local public administrations. Used to trade goods and services in limited territories or among a certain community, CCs are composed of symbolic, cultural, and social dimensions and fully immersed in particular economic and institutional contexts. Despite the increasing adoption of CCs, the discussion on guiding principles and values to address their purposes, particularly in relation to environmental sustainability issues is still scarce in the literature. Given this gap, this paper relies on the following research question: what are the design principles to be considered for community currency projects oriented to sustainable development goals? We follow the design science research paradigms to describe the design principles of a CC project. We analyze the institutional and economic context in which they are implemented, the goals for what they were created, the processes and mechanisms to rely upon their operation, and how they are evaluated according to their specific goals and to their implications to the sustainable development goals. It is important to emphasize that in this article we focus on improving the understanding of CC projects and what should be considered in their evaluation, however not to the extent on how they should be implemented. The design principles framework presented in this paper specifies guidelines to discuss principles to be considered within a range of different possibilities of diversified CC implementation strategies.
Mitigation of Residual Stress and Distortion of AlSi10Mg Parts Produced by Laser Powder Bed Fusion through a Proper Selection of Support Geometry
Authors: Piscopo Gabriele , Atzeni Eleonora , Salmi Alessandro
Published: February 2024

Laser beam powder bed fusion (LB-PBF) is an edge additive manufacturing technology that allows complex near-net shape components to be produced. The freedom of design of the LB-PBF process makes it possible to produce optimized geometries, driving the application of this process in sectors in which high performance is fundamental such as aerospace and automotive. However, the building process inherently generates residual stresses in the part and the use of support structures become essential to anchor the part to the building platform and avoid problems in the downfacing surfaces that may warp or collapse during the production process. In this paper, different support densities obtained using different geometries of support structures are investigated to evaluate how they affect the residual stress distribution in the supported part. Two families of support structures were considered, linear-type and volumetric-type, including also a hybrid support structure that combined a massive volume topped by a linear support structure. Results highlighted that the combined choice of support density and geometry influences the magnitude and the distribution of sub-superficial residual stresses near the support-part interface and that appropriate design is essential to prevent excessive distortion or failure.