bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimization of Nutrition after Brain Injury: Mechanistic and Therapeutic Considerations
Authors: Poblete Roy A. , Yaceczko Shelby , Aliakbar Raya , Saini Pravesh , Hazany Saman , Breit Hannah , Louie Stan G. , Lyden Patrick D. , Partikian Arthur
Published: September 2023

Emerging science continues to establish the detrimental effects of malnutrition in acute neurological diseases such as traumatic brain injury, stroke, status epilepticus and anoxic brain injury. The primary pathological pathways responsible for secondary brain injury include neuroinflammation, catabolism, immune suppression and metabolic failure, and these are exacerbated by malnutrition. Given this, there is growing interest in novel nutritional interventions to promote neurological recovery after acute brain injury. In this review, we will describe how malnutrition impacts the biomolecular mechanisms of secondary brain injury in acute neurological disorders, and how nutritional status can be optimized in both pediatric and adult populations. We will further highlight emerging therapeutic approaches, including specialized diets that aim to resolve neuroinflammation, immunodeficiency and metabolic crisis, by providing pre-clinical and clinical evidence that their use promotes neurologic recovery. Using nutrition as a targeted treatment is appealing for several reasons that will be discussed. Given the high mortality and both short- and long-term morbidity associated with acute brain injuries, novel translational and clinical approaches are needed.
An Enhanced Hunger Games Search Optimization with Application to Constrained Engineering Optimization Problems
Authors: Lin Yaoyao , Heidari Ali Asghar , Wang Shuihua , Chen Huiling , Zhang Yudong
Published: September 2023

The Hunger Games Search (HGS) is an innovative optimizer that operates without relying on gradients and utilizes a population-based approach. It draws inspiration from the collaborative foraging activities observed in social animals in their natural habitats. However, despite its notable strengths, HGS is subject to limitations, including inadequate diversity, premature convergence, and susceptibility to local optima. To overcome these challenges, this study introduces two adjusted strategies to enhance the original HGS algorithm. The first adaptive strategy combines the Logarithmic Spiral (LS) technique with Opposition-based Learning (OBL), resulting in the LS-OBL approach. This strategy plays a pivotal role in reducing the search space and maintaining population diversity within HGS, effectively augmenting the algorithm’s exploration capabilities. The second adaptive strategy, the dynamic Rosenbrock Method (RM), contributes to HGS by adjusting the search direction and step size. This adjustment enables HGS to escape from suboptimal solutions and enhances its convergence accuracy. Combined, these two strategies form the improved algorithm proposed in this study, referred to as RLHGS. To assess the efficacy of the introduced strategies, specific experiments are designed to evaluate the impact of LS-OBL and RM on enhancing HGS performance. The experimental results unequivocally demonstrate that integrating these two strategies significantly enhances the capabilities of HGS. Furthermore, RLHGS is compared against eight state-of-the-art algorithms using 23 well-established benchmark functions and the CEC2020 test suite. The experimental results consistently indicate that RLHGS outperforms the other algorithms, securing the top rank in both test suites. This compelling evidence substantiates the superior functionality and performance of RLHGS compared to its counterparts. Moreover, RLHGS is applied to address four constrained real-world engineering optimization problems. The final results underscore the effectiveness of RLHGS in tackling such problems, further supporting its value as an efficient optimization method.
Antibacterial Calcium Phosphate Coatings for Biomedical Applications Fabricated via Micro-Arc Oxidation
Authors: Kozelskaya Anna I. , Verzunova Ksenia N. , Akimchenko Igor O. , Frueh Johannes , Petrov Vsevolod I. , Slepchenko Galina B. , Bakina Olga V. , Lerner Marat I. , Brizhan Leonid K. , Davydov Denis V. , Kerimov Artur A. , Cherempey Elena G. , Krylov Sergey E. , Rutkowski Sven , Tverdokhlebov Sergei I.
Published: September 2023

A promising method for improving the functional properties of calcium-phosphate coatings is the incorporation of various antibacterial additives into their structure. The microbial contamination of a superficial wound is inevitable, even if the rules of asepsis and antisepsis are optimally applied. One of the main problems is that bacteria often become resistant to antibiotics over time. However, this does not apply to certain elements, chemical compounds and drugs with antimicrobial properties. In this study, the fabrication and properties of zinc-containing calcium-phosphate coatings that were formed via micro-arc oxidation from three different electrolyte solutions are investigated. The first electrolyte is based on calcium oxide, the second on hydroxyapatite and the third on calcium acetate. By adding zinc oxide to the three electrolyte solutions, antibacterial properties of the coatings are achieved. Although the same amount of zinc oxide has been added to each electrolyte solution, the zinc concentration in the coatings obtained vary greatly. Furthermore, this study investigates the morphology, structure and chemical composition of the coatings. The antibacterial properties of the zinc-containing coatings were tested toward three strains of bacteria—Staphylococcus aureus, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Coatings of calcium acetate and zinc oxide contained the highest amount of zinc and displayed the highest zinc release. Moreover, coatings containing hydroxyapatite and zinc oxide show the highest antibacterial activity toward Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and coatings containing calcium acetate and zinc oxide show the highest antibacterial activities toward Staphylococcus aureus and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) on the Precuneus in Alzheimer’s Disease: A Literature Review
Authors: Millet Bruno , Mouchabac Stéphane , Robert Gabriel , Maatoug Redwan , Dondaine Thibaut , Ferreri Florian , Bourla Alexis
Published: September 2023

The current literature review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of rTMS on the precuneus as a potential treatment for Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Although the number of studies specifically targeting the precuneus is limited, the results from this review suggest the potential benefits of this approach. Future studies should focus on exploring the long-term effects of rTMS on the precuneus in Alzheimer’s disease patients, as well as determining the optimal stimulation parameters and protocols for this population. Additionally, investigating the effects of rTMS on the precuneus in combination with other brain regions implicated in AD may provide valuable insights into the development of effective treatment for this debilitating neurodegenerative disorder.
Sleep Health, Individual Characteristics, Lifestyle Factors, and Marathon Completion Time in Marathon Runners: A Retrospective Investigation of the 2016 London Marathon
Authors: Cook Jesse D. , Gratton Matt K. P. , Bender Amy M. , Werthner Penny , Lawson Doug , Pedlar Charles R. , Kipps Courtney , Bastien Celyne H. , Samuels Charles H. , Charest Jonathan
Published: September 2023

Despite sleep health being critically important for athlete performance and well-being, sleep health in marathoners is understudied. This foundational study explored relations between sleep health, individual characteristics, lifestyle factors, and marathon completion time. Data were obtained from the 2016 London Marathon participants. Participants completed the Athlete Sleep Screening Questionnaire (ASSQ) along with a brief survey capturing individual characteristics and lifestyle factors. Sleep health focused on the ASSQ sleep difficulty score (SDS) and its components. Linear regression computed relations among sleep, individual, lifestyle, and marathon variables. The analytic sample (N = 943) was mostly male (64.5%) and young adults (66.5%). A total of 23.5% of the sample reported sleep difficulties (SDS ≥ 8) at a severity warranting follow-up with a trained sleep provider. Middle-aged adults generally reported significantly worse sleep health characteristics, relative to young adults, except young adults reported significantly longer sleep onset latency (SOL). Sleep tracker users reported worse sleep satisfaction. Pre-bedtime electronic device use was associated with longer SOL and longer marathon completion time, while increasing SOL was also associated with longer marathon completion. Our results suggest a deleterious influence of pre-bedtime electronic device use and sleep tracker use on sleep health in marathoners. Orthosomnia may be a relevant factor in the relationship between sleep tracking and sleep health for marathoners.
Visual Function and Neuropsychological Profiling of Idiopathic Infantile Nystagmus
Authors: Morelli Federica , Catalano Guido , Scognamillo Ilaria , Balzarotti Nicolò , Luparia Antonella , Olivier Lucrezia , Bertone Chiara , Gori Monica , Signorini Sabrina
Published: September 2023

Though considered a benign condition, idiopathic infantile nystagmus (IIN) may be associated with decreased visual acuity and oculo-motor abnormalities, resulting in developmental delays and poor academic performance. Nevertheless, the specific visual function profile of IIN and its possible impact on neuropsychological development have been poorly investigated. To fill this gap, we retrospectively collected the clinical data of 60 children presenting with IIN over a 10-year period (43 male; mean age of 7 years, range of 2 months-17 years, 9 months). The majority of the subjects in our cohort presented with reduced visual acuity for far distances and normal visual acuity for near distances, associated with oculo-motor abnormalities. The overall scores of cognitive and visual–cognitive tests were in the normal range, but revealed peculiar cognitive and visual–cognitive profiles, defined by specific frailties in processing speed and visual–motor integration. The same neuropsychological profiles characterize many neurodevelopmental disorders and may express a transnosographic vulnerability of the dorsal stream. As the first study to explore the neuropsychologic competencies in children with IIN, our study unveils the presence of subclinical frailties that need to be addressed to sustain academic and social inclusion.
Mapping Two Decades of AI in Construction Research: A Scientometric Analysis from the Sustainability and Construction Phases Lenses
Authors: Regona Massimo , Yigitcanlar Tan , Hon Carol K. H. , Teo Melissa
Published: September 2023

The construction industry plays a vital role in the urbanization process and global economy, and there is a growing interest in utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to improve sustainability, productivity, and efficiency. However, there is a lack of comprehensive analysis regarding the progression of AI in the construction context, particularly from the sustainability angle. This study aims to fill this gap by conducting a scientometric analysis of AI research in construction by focusing on historical clusters, emerging trends, research clusters, and the correlation between sustainability pillars and key project stages. A Scopus search, between January 2000 and July 2023, was conducted that used 25 construction industry-related keywords, resulting in a total of 9564 publications. After evaluating practical AI applications in construction, 3710 publications were selected for further analysis using VOSviewer for visual diagrams and to further understand connections and patterns between literature. The findings revealed that: (a) Literature on AI in construction has experienced steady growth over the past two decades; (b) Machine learning, deep learning, and big data are seen as the key enabling digital technologies in the construction sector’s performance; (c) Economic and governance pillars of sustainability exhibit the highest potential for AI adoption; (d) Design and construction phases demonstrate substantial advantages for AI adoption; (e) AI technologies have become, despite adoption challenges, a strong driver of construction industry modernization, and; (f) By incorporating AI, the construction industry can advance towards a more sustainable future by consolidating its processes and practices.
Vital Signs in Palliative Care: A Scoping Review
Authors: Power Jenny , Gouldthorpe Craig , Davies Andrew
Published: September 2023

Vital signs are routinely measured in secondary healthcare settings and can be used to detect clinical problems, guide treatment, and monitor response to treatment. Vital signs are less frequently measured in palliative care settings. Reasons for this are unclear. This scoping review aimed to assess the generic use of vital signs in palliative care, and its role in prognostication for adult patients with cancer receiving palliative care. Medline, Embase, and CINAHL were searched for articles involving adult patients with advanced cancer receiving palliative care who had their vital signs measured. Twenty-six articles were identified in which one or a combination of vital signs, with or without other clinical parameters, was used to prognosticate for patients. An additional three articles investigated the generic use of vital signs in patients with advanced cancer. There was significant heterogeneity between identified studies, with some indication that changes in vital signs may indicate that a patient is close to death. However, other studies suggested that patients may maintain normal vital signs until the time of death. Further studies are needed to explore whether abnormal vital signs may be used as a prognostic indicator for patients with cancer receiving palliative care.
Multifaceted Insights into Innovative Approaches to Treating Colorectal Cancer Metastasis: From Emerging Biological Factors to Radiomics
Authors: Ottaiano Alessandro , Circelli Luisa , Santorsola Mariachiara , Caraglia Michele
Published: September 2023

We extend our appreciation to the authors who have made substantial contributions to the Special Issue focusing on “Colorectal Cancer Metastasis” [...]
Hydrolysis–Dehydration of Cellulose: Efficiency of NbZr Catalysts under Batch and Flow Conditions
Authors: Gromov Nikolay V. , Ogorodnikova Olga L. , Medvedeva Tatiana B. , Panchenko Valentina N. , Yakovleva Irina S. , Isupova Lyubov A. , Timofeeva Maria N. , Taran Oxana P. , Aymonier Cyril , Parmon Valentin N.
Published: September 2023

Niobium oxide supported on ZrO2 and mixed oxide of NbOx-ZrO2 was prepared and characterized. Mechanical treatment was followed by the microwave heating procedure of catalysts with more advanced textural parameters. The amount of Lewis (LAS) and Brønsted (BAS) acid sites rose with the increasing Nb content in the catalysts. The catalytic properties of samples of niobia-zirconia (NbZr samples, NbZr catalysts) were studied in a cellulose hydrolysis–dehydration reaction at 453 K under an inert Ar atmosphere in a batch reactor. Glucose and 5-hydroxumethylfurfural (5-HMF) were the major products. The initial reaction rate could be tuned by the density of acid sites on the surface of solid. At a low density of acid sites (0.1–0.3 µmol·m−2), the initial reaction rate had a pronounced inverse correlation. Increasing the LAS/BAS from 0.3 to 2.5 slightly stimulated the formation of the target products. The catalytic properties of NbZr catalysts prepared by microwave treatment were studied in cellulose transformation in a flow set-up. Glucose was found to be the major product. The maximum yield of glucose was observed in the presence of the sample of 17%Nb/ZrO2. Increasing Nb content resulted in the formation of Nb-associated acid centers and, in turn, increasing catalyst acidity and activity.
Impacts of Ni-Loading Method on the Structure and the Catalytic Activity of NiO/SiO2-Al2O3 for Ethylene Oligomerization
Authors: Shimura Katsuya , Yoshida Shigehiro , Oikawa Hiroshi , Fujitani Tadahiro
Published: September 2023

To clarify the Ni species of NiO/SiO2-Al2O3 catalysts that are active for ethylene oligomerization, 18 types of NiO/SiO2-Al2O3 were prepared using three Ni-loading methods (i.e., ion-exchange, impregnation, and homogeneous precipitation), with different Ni-loadings (1–20 wt%), and examined with respect to their structure and catalytic activity for ethylene oligomerization. Characterized by N2 adsorption, powder XRD, FE-SEM, H2-TPR, NH3-TPD, and C2H4-TPD showed that Ni species in the catalysts prepared by ion-exchange were mainly ion-exchanged Ni cations. In contrast, Ni species in the catalysts prepared by impregnation were a mixture of ion-exchanged Ni cations and NiO particles, and those in the catalysts prepared by homogeneous precipitation were all NiSiO3 particles. Catalytic-reaction tests at 300 °C and 0.1 MPa revealed the following: the ion-exchanged Ni cations showed the highest C2H4 conversion rate; the NiSiO3 particles showed a moderate reaction rate; and the NiO particles were not active for ethylene oligomerization. We concluded that the high catalytic activity of the ion-exchanged Ni cations was a result of their high dispersion and medium-strength acidity, which together promoted the adsorption and activation of ethylene on, and the desorption of oligomerization products from, the catalyst.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Synthetic Peptides Based on Glucocorticoid-Induced Leucine Zipper (GILZ) Protein for the Treatment of Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBDs)
Authors: Paglialunga Musetta , Flamini Sara , Contini Raffaele , Febo Marta , Ricci Erika , Ronchetti Simona , Bereshchenko Oxana , Migliorati Graziella , Riccardi Carlo , Bruscoli Stefano
Published: September 2023

Glucocorticoids (GCs) are commonly used to treat autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, but their clinical effects and long-term use can lead to serious side effects. New drugs that can replace GCs are needed. Glucocorticoid-induced leucine zipper (GILZ) is induced by GCs and mediates many of their anti-inflammatory effects, such as inhibiting the pro-inflammatory molecule NF-κB. The GILZ C-terminal domain (PER region) is responsible for GILZ/p65NF-κB interaction and consequent inhibition of its transcriptional activity. A set of five short peptides spanning different parts of the PER region of GILZ protein was designed, and their anti-inflammatory activity was tested, both in vitro and in vivo. We tested the biological activity of GILZ peptides in human lymphocytic and monocytic cell lines to evaluate their inhibitory effect on the NF-κB-dependent expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Among the tested peptides, the peptide named PEP-1 demonstrated the highest efficacy in inhibiting cell activation in vitro. Subsequently, PEP-1 was further evaluated in two in vivo experimental colitis models (chemically induced by DNBS administration and spontaneous colitis induced in IL-10 knock-out (KO) mice (to assess its effectiveness in counteracting inflammation. Results show that PEP-1 reduced disease severity in both colitis models associated with reduced NF-κB pro-inflammatory activity in colon lamina propria lymphocytes. This study explored GILZ-based ‘small peptides’ potential efficacy in decreasing lymphocyte activation and inflammation associated with experimental inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs). Small peptides have several advantages over the entire protein, including higher selectivity, better stability, and bioavailability profile, and are easy to synthesize and cost-effective. Thus, identifying active GILZ peptides could represent a new class of drugs for treating IBD patients.
The Mediating Role of Parenting Style in the Relationship between Parents’ Openness to Different Ways of Thinking and Child Anxiety
Authors: Zeevi-Cousin Adele , Lavenda Osnat
Published: September 2023

The quality of parent–child relationships plays a significant role in the development of child anxiety, especially regarding aspects of parental control, intrusive behavior, and a lack of warmth. Nevertheless, the underlying mechanisms of these parenting behaviors that are associated with the risk of child anxiety have yet to be revealed. The present study aims to examine the contribution of a cognitive aspect of parenting, i.e., openness to different ways of thinking, to the development of child anxiety through its impact on parenting style. A sample of 300 Israeli parents (72% women) over the age of 18 (M = 38.8, SD = 6.2), with at least one child over the age of 6 (M = 13.3, SD = 5.5 of oldest child), was recruited through social media platforms. Participants provided demographic information and filled out self-reported questionnaires dealing with child anxiety (using the Child Behavior Checklist), openness to different ways of thinking (using the Interpersonal Reactivity Index), and parenting style (using the Parental Behavior Inventory). The analysis confirmed the mediation role of hostile/coercive parenting style in the association between parental openness to different ways of thinking and child anxiety. However, the association between supportive/engaged parenting and child anxiety was non-significant. Apparently, openness to different ways of thinking allows for parents to consolidate parenting that does not resort to coercive and hostile behaviors, control, obedience, and severe strictness. As a result, the child develops self-regulation and coping mechanisms that reduce the risk for developing anxiety.
Parental Access to Healthcare following Paediatric Surgery—The Precarious Role of Parents as Providers of Care in the Home
Authors: Nilsson Stefan , Hylén Mia , Kristensson-Hallström Inger , Kristjánsdóttir Gudrún , Stenström Pernilla , Vilhjálmsson Runar
Published: September 2023

Access to healthcare can facilitate parents’ self-management of their children’s care. Healthcare access can be described as consisting of six dimensions: approachability, acceptability, affordability, availability, appropriateness, and aperture. The aim of this study was to analyse these dimensions of healthcare access experienced by parents caring for their children at home following paediatric surgery. The method-directed content analysis, conducted with the six-dimensional framework of access to healthcare as a guide, was used to analyse twenty-two interviews with parents of children treated with paediatric surgery. All six dimensions were represented in the results. Acceptability was the most frequent dimension, followed by appropriateness and approachability. Affordability, availability, and aperture were less represented. Although access to healthcare after paediatric surgery is generally appropriate and approachable, parents may experience insecurity in performing the self-management needed. Complementary forms of information provision, e.g., telemedicine, can be valuable in this regard.
Influence of Bioactive Glass Addition on TC4 Laser Cladding Coatings: Microstructure and Electrochemical Properties
Authors: Meng Yao , Yang Yuyun , Zhang Changlin , Cui Xiufang , Liu Erbao , Jin Guo , Kang Jiajie , She Peng
Published: September 2023

There is a growing interest in enhancing the bioactivity of TC4-based metallic biomaterials, which are known for their excellent biocompatibility. Bioactive glass (BG) has been recognized for its high potential in promoting bioactivity, particularly in osteo tissue engineering. This study focuses on investigating the influence of BG addition on the microstructure and electrochemical properties of TC4 coatings. The TC4/BG composite coatings were fabricated through laser cladding, and their microstructure was characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The electrochemical properties of the coatings were assessed through electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and potentiodynamic polarization tests in three different solutions. The results revealed that the incorporation of BG had a significant impact on the microstructure of the TC4 coatings, leading to the formation of a well-defined interface between the TC4 matrix and the BG aggregates. The distribution of BG aggregates within the TC4 matrix coating was found to be random and unrelated to the specific regions of the coating. The metallographic microstructure variations were attributed to different heat dissipation conditions during the laser cladding process. Furthermore, the electrochemical corrosion behavior of TC4/BG composite coatings reveals that they exhibit stability similar to that of passive films and good resistance against media corrosion compared to TC4, while also showing enhanced corrosion resistance in 3.5 wt% NaCl and Dulbecco’s modified Eagle medium (DMEM) solutions, indicating their potential for biomedical applications; however, the corrosion resistance decreases gradually in all solutions, potentially due to the elevated Cl− concentration. Further research can explore bioactivity enhancement of TC4/BG composite coatings and investigate the long-term stability and biological response of these coatings in diverse physiological environments.
Influence of Magnetic Particles and Magnetic Field on Gloss in UV Coating
Authors: Davoudi Sorour , Multigner Marta , Calvez Ingrid , Hermann Aurélien , Landry Véronic
Published: September 2023

UV-curable coatings possess numerous advantages, including high production rate, low environmental impact, and customizability, making them highly appealing for a wide range of applications. However, one of the greatest challenges in UV-curable coating is achieving an optimal low-gloss surface by adding matting agents to the coating formulation. Therefore, it is essential to find a suitable matting agent type and an efficient roughness creation method to tailor the surface gloss and generate a controlled low-gloss surface. In this study, modified magnetic particles were added to the coating formulation as matting agents, and the UV curing process was conducted under a magnetic field of 10 to 100 mT. The combined effect of adding magnetic particles and magnetic field during UV curing on the coatings’ surface gloss was investigated. The impact of modification, dispersion, and concentration of magnetic particles and the effect of magnetic field force on the final surface gloss and roughness were assessed. Moreover, the effect of the dispersion and concentration of magnetic particles on the photopolymerization of the coating was evaluated. The result indicated that both the magnetic field force and modification of the magnetic particles impact the surface roughness. A CI-APTES 5% wt. sample cured under a 60 mT magnetic field led to the highest decrease in 20° gloss.
Initial Multidisciplinary Study of Oxidized Chromium-Coated Zirconium Alloy for Fuel Cladding of SCW-SMR Concept: Weight-Gain and Thermal Conductivity Measurements and Coating Cost Evaluation
Authors: Khumsa-Ang Kittima , Mendoza Alberto , Nava-Dominguez Armando , Azih Chukwudi , Zahlan Hussam
Published: September 2023

One of the challenges of small modular reactors (SMRs) in comparison with large reactors is the greater difficulty in achieving high burnups in smaller cores. With greater neutron leakage through the periphery, a key factor is the neutron economy of the fuel cladding. However, all large supercritical water-cooled reactor (SCWR) concepts have employed neutron-absorbing stainless steels and nickel-based alloys in order to meet all the requirements in terms of corrosion and thermalhydraulics. In order to achieve higher burnups and extend the time between refueling in a SCW-SMR, the use of chromium-coated zirconium alloy as a potential fuel cladding candidate has been explored. Chromium coatings up to a few micrometers thick have shown improved oxidation resistance of zirconium-based claddings under operating conditions relevant to SCWR concepts. In this study, Zr-2.5Nb alloy (UNS R60904) from pressure tube samples was coated using a physical vapor-deposition (PVD) method. Oxidation tests were performed on coated samples at 500 °C and approximately 25 MPa in a refreshed autoclave. The effects of the oxide on heat transfer and hydraulic resistance are also discussed in this study. Last, but not least, this study evaluates the coating cost of the fuel cladding with chromium in a vacuum plasma spray process.
Interface Splitting Algorithm: A Parallel Solution to Diagonally Dominant Tridiagonal Systems
Authors: Hokpunna Arpiruk
Published: September 2023

We present an interface-splitting algorithm (ITS) for solving diagonally dominant tridiagonal systems in parallel. The construction of the ITS algorithm profits from bidirectional links in modern networks, and it only needs one synchronization step to solve the system. The algorithm trades some necessary accuracy for better parallel performance. The accuracy and the performance of the ITS algorithm are evaluated on four different parallel machines of up to 2048 processors. The proposed algorithm scales very well, and it is significantly faster than the algorithm used in ScaLAPACK. The applicability of the algorithm is demonstrated in the three-dimensional simulations of turbulent channel flow at Reynolds number 41,430.
Sustainability by Reduced Energy Consumption during Manufacturing: The Case of Cosmetic Emulsions
Authors: Tamburic Slobodanka , Fröhlich Jana , Mistry Shivani , Fischer Ludger Josef , Barbary Tim , Bunyan Sylvie , Dufton Elisabeth
Published: September 2023

Energy input in emulsion manufacturing comprises thermal and mechanical energy, with thermal energy being predominant. In terms of raw material selection, there is a widely accepted belief that natural formulations are more “eco-friendly” than their standard (not natural) counterparts. The aim of this study was to compare the energy consumption and subsequent carbon footprint resulting from the production of two main emulsion types, each represented by its standard and natural variant and made by using different manufacturing processes (hot, hot-cold and cold). This resulted in six samples of oil-in-water (O/W) and water-in-oil (W/O) emulsion types, respectively. Scale-down calculations were used to establish the required homogenisation time and speed of the laboratory homogeniser, necessary to achieve the same shear rates as the chosen industrial vessel. The resulting emulsions were characterised using rheological and textural analysis. The six emulsions within each emulsion type have exhibited sufficiently similar characteristics for the purpose of carbon footprint comparisons. Calculations were conducted to quantify the energy input of hot and hot-cold procedures, followed by cradle-to-gate life cycle analysis (LCA). Energy calculations demonstrated that the hot-cold manufacturing process saved approximately 82% (for O/W) and 86% (for W/O) of thermal energy in comparison to the hot process. LCA has shown that the effects of using natural instead of standard ingredients were negative, i.e., it led to a higher carbon footprint. However, it was dwarfed by the effect of the energy used, specifically thermal energy during manufacturing. This strongly indicates that the most efficient way for companies to reduce their carbon footprint is to use the hot-cold emulsification process.
Impact of Hydrogen Plasma on Electrical Properties and Deep Trap Spectra in Ga2O3 Polymorphs
Authors: Polyakov Alexander Y. , Yakimov Eugene B. , Nikolaev Vladimir I. , Pechnikov Alexei I. , Miakonkikh Andrej V. , Azarov Alexander , Lee In-Hwan , Vasilev Anton A. , Kochkova Anastasiia I. , Shchemerov Ivan V. , Kuznetsov Andrej , Pearton Stephen J.
Published: September 2023

In this study, the results of hydrogen plasma treatments of β-Ga2O3, α-Ga2O3, κ-Ga2O3 and γ-Ga2O3 polymorphs are analyzed. For all polymorphs, the results strongly suggest an interplay between donor-like hydrogen configurations and acceptor complexes formed by hydrogen with gallium vacancies. A strong anisotropy of hydrogen plasma effects in the most thermodynamically stable β-Ga2O3 are explained by its low-symmetry monoclinic crystal structure. For the metastable, α-, κ- and γ-polymorphs, it is shown that the net result of hydrogenation is often a strong increase in the density of centers supplying electrons in the near-surface regions. These centers are responsible for prominent, persistent photocapacitance and photocurrent effects.
Fractionated Stereotactic Radiation for Central Nervous System Lymphoma: Retrospective Analysis of Initial Cases
Authors: Schep Daniel G. , Mir Taskia , Fraser Graeme A. M. , Greenspoon Jeffrey N.
Published: September 2023

Primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) is primarily treated with combination chemotherapy, while whole-brain radiotherapy (WBRT) can be used as consolidative treatment or as a salvage option for central nervous system (CNS) relapse. We investigated whether fractionated stereotactic radiosurgery (fSRS) could replace WBRT in cases where patients had poor performance status or minimal disease at the time of consolidation, to spare patients the adverse effects of WBRT. We retrospectively identified 10 patients who completed 14 courses of fSRS for PCNSL or for CNS relapse of systemic lymphoma. Of 14 fSRS treatments, there were 10 distant brain recurrences among 6 patients, occurring on average 13.6 months after fSRS. A total of 4 of the 10 recurrences were treated with further fSRS, and 4 were treated with WBRT. There was one late in-field recurrence after both fSRS and WBRT, which occurred 27 months after fSRS. The median survival after fSRS was 36 months, and side effects after fSRS were minimal. This case series represents a potential treatment option for patients with CNS lymphoma, for whom WBRT is indicated but where the toxic effects of this treatment would be prohibitive.
Branching Lithophyllum Coralline Algae: Dominant Reef Builders on Herbivory-Depressed Tropical Reefs after High Coral Mortality
Authors: Schils Tom
Published: September 2023

A unique shift in benthic community composition, where scleractinian corals are replaced by coralline algae, has been observed on coral reefs in Guam in the western Pacific. Guam’s reefs have been subjected to intense fishing pressure and impaired water quality for decades. Since 2013, heat stress has emerged as an additional major threat to the island’s coral reefs. After a severe coral bleaching and mortality event in 2017, branching coralline algae of the genus Lithophyllum rapidly overgrew dead coral skeletons of the ecosystem engineer Acropora abrotanoides and have since become major components of forereef communities over a broad depth range. By now, the persistence of increased Lithophyllum cover meets the temporal criterium of phase shifts, but accurate estimates on the degree of dominance over appropriate spatial scales are lacking due to the absence of reliable baseline data. The ecological impacts of coral reef transitions towards increased coralline cover are unclear. Whereas carbonate budgets and reef growth could remain positive in the long term, the downstream effect of changes in structural complexity, (micro)habitat diversity, and benthic community composition on ecological processes and reef-associated faunal assemblages is unknown.
Potential Range Map Dataset of Indian Birds
Authors: Deomurari Arpit , Sharma Ajay , Ghose Dipankar , Singh Randeep
Published: September 2023

Conservation management heavily relies on accurate species distribution data. However, distributional information for most species is limited to distributional range maps, which could not have enough resolution to take conservation action and know current distribution status. In many cases, distribution maps are difficult to access in proper data formats for analysis and conservation planning of species. In this study, we addressed this issue by developing Species Distribution Models (SDMs) that integrate species presence data from various citizen science initiatives. This allowed us to systematically construct current distribution maps for 1091 bird species across India. To create these SDMs, we used MaxEnt 3.4.4 (Maximum Entropy) as the base for species distribution modelling and combined it with multiple citizen science datasets containing information on species occurrence and 29 environmental variables. Using this method, we were able to estimate species distribution maps at both a national scale and a high spatial resolution of 1 km2. Thus, the results of our study provide species current species distribution maps for 968 bird species found in India. These maps significantly improve our knowledge of the geographic distribution of about 75% of India’s bird species and are essential for addressing spatial knowledge gaps for conservation issues. Additionally, by superimposing the distribution maps of different species, we can locate hotspots for bird diversity and align conservation action.
Extraction-Free Detection of SARS-CoV-2 Viral RNA Using LumiraDx’s RNA Star Complete Assay from Clinical Nasal Swabs Stored in a Novel Collection and Transport Medium
Authors: Daum Luke T. , Rodriguez John D. , Ward Susan R. , Chambers James P.
Published: September 2023

Background: The rapid detection of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) is vital for patient care. The LumiraDx™ SARS-CoV-2 RNA Star Complete (RSC) is an Emergency Use Authorization-recognized molecular test using nasal/nasopharyngeal swabs immersed in a viral/universal transport medium (VTM/UTM). However, there is a critical need for an alternative medium for point-of-care testing (POCT). This study aimed to investigate Xtract-Free (XF), a novel collection medium for transport and direct (extraction-free) use with nucleic acid tests. Methods: Using serially diluted SARS-CoV-2 viral RNA (vRNA) in a routine UTM and XF, a limit of detection (LOD) was established via an RSC test and a quantitative reverse transcription PCR (RT-qPCR). Additionally, the results obtained from a panel of 108 clinical “car-side” nasal swabs collected in XF during the coronavirus pandemic and assessed using the ”gold-standard” RT-qPCR assay were compared to Lumira’s RSC assay. Results: The average replicate RT-qPCR cycle threshold (CT) values for vRNA in XF and UTM were observed to be equivalent. An LOD for which five out of five replicates were detected using XF or VTM was approximately 2000 copies/mL. The nasal swabs collected in XF exhibited 93.9% positive percent agreement (sensitivity) and 100% negative percent agreement (specificity) compared to the RT-qPCR. Three specimens tested positive via an RT-qPCR were negative when tested via RSC; however, all three samples had CT values ≥ 36.4. Conclusions: XF is equivalent to VTM/UTM and is compatible for use with the RSC test. Furthermore, XF can be used directly with RT-qPCRs and rapid antigen testing without the requirement for separate nucleic acid extraction (an extraction-free process), making it ideal for cost-effective high-throughput and decentralized respiratory testing. Impact Statement: This study is the first to evaluate LumiraDx’s SARS-CoV-2 RNA Star Complete assay in concert with Xtract-Free (XF), a novel collection medium containing a proprietary RNase-inactivating technology for the rapid, ”extraction-free” detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNA from clinical nasal swabs. Specimens collected in XF combined with rapid LumiraDx detection provide a safe and sensitive alternative to VTM/UTM, and Molecular Transport medium (MTM) for high throughput, “extraction-free” molecular detection.
The Role of Bacterial, Dentinal, Salivary, and Neutrophil Degradative Activity in Caries Pathogenesis
Authors: Peled Yuval , Stewart Cameron A. , Glogauer Michael , Finer Yoav
Published: September 2023

Until recently, it was widely accepted that bacteria participate in caries pathogenesis mainly through carbohydrate fermentation and acid production, which promote the dissolution of tooth components. Neutrophils, on the other hand, were considered white blood cells with no role in caries pathogenesis. Nevertheless, current literature suggests that both bacteria and neutrophils, among other factors, possess direct degradative activity towards both dentinal collagen type-1 and/or methacrylate resin-based restoratives and adhesives, the most common dental restoratives. Neutrophils are abundant leukocytes in the gingival sulcus, where they can readily reach adjacent tooth roots or gingival and cervical restorations and execute their degradative activity. In this review, we present the latest literature evidence for bacterial, dentinal, salivary, and neutrophil degradative action that may induce primary caries, secondary caries, and restoration failure.
A Novel Clustering Method Based on Adjacent Grids Searching
Authors: Li Zhimeng , Zhong Wen , Liao Weiwen , Zhao Jian , Yu Ming , He Gaiyun
Published: September 2023

Clustering is used to analyze the intrinsic structure of a dataset based on the similarity of datapoints. Its widespread use, from image segmentation to object recognition and information retrieval, requires great robustness in the clustering process. In this paper, a novel clustering method based on adjacent grid searching (CAGS) is proposed. The CAGS consists of two steps: a strategy based on adaptive grid-space construction and a clustering strategy based on adjacent grid searching. In the first step, a multidimensional grid space is constructed to provide a quantization structure of the input dataset. The noise and cluster halo are automatically distinguished according to grid density. Moreover, the adaptive grid generating process solves the common problem of grid clustering, in which the number of cells increases sharply with the dimension. In the second step, a two-stage traversal process is conducted to accomplish the cluster recognition. The cluster cores with arbitrary shapes can be found by concealing the halo points. As a result, the number of clusters will be easily identified by CAGS. Therefore, CAGS has the potential to be widely used for clustering datasets with different characteristics. We test the clustering performance of CAGS through six different types of datasets: dataset with noise, large-scale dataset, high-dimensional dataset, dataset with arbitrary shapes, dataset with large differences in density between classes, and dataset with high overlap between classes. Experimental results show that CAGS, which performed best on 10 out of 11 tests, outperforms the state-of-the-art clustering methods in all the above datasets.
Bounds on the Probability of Undetected Error for q-Ary Codes
Authors: Wang Xuan , Liu Huizhou , Solé Patrick
Published: September 2023

We study the probability of an undetected error for general q-ary codes. We give upper and lower bounds on this quantity, by the Linear Programming and the Polynomial methods, as a function of the length, size, and minimum distance. Sharper bounds are obtained in the important special case of binary Hamming codes. Finally, several examples are given to illustrate the results of this paper.
FBANet: Transfer Learning for Depression Recognition Using a Feature-Enhanced Bi-Level Attention Network
Authors: Wang Huayi , Zhang Jie , Huang Yaocheng , Cai Bo
Published: September 2023

The House-Tree-Person (HTP) sketch test is a psychological analysis technique designed to assess the mental health status of test subjects. Nowadays, there are mature methods for the recognition of depression using the HTP sketch test. However, existing works primarily rely on manual analysis of drawing features, which has the drawbacks of strong subjectivity and low automation. Only a small number of works automatically recognize depression using machine learning and deep learning methods, but their complex data preprocessing pipelines and multi-stage computational processes indicate a relatively low level of automation. To overcome the above issues, we present a novel deep learning-based one-stage approach for depression recognition in HTP sketches, which has a simple data preprocessing pipeline and calculation process with a high accuracy rate. In terms of data, we use a hand-drawn HTP sketch dataset, which contains drawings of normal people and patients with depression. In the model aspect, we design a novel network called Feature-Enhanced Bi-Level Attention Network (FBANet), which contains feature enhancement and bi-level attention modules. Due to the limited size of the collected data, transfer learning is employed, where the model is pre-trained on a large-scale sketch dataset and fine-tuned on the HTP sketch dataset. On the HTP sketch dataset, utilizing cross-validation, FBANet achieves a maximum accuracy of 99.07% on the validation dataset, with an average accuracy of 97.71%, outperforming traditional classification models and previous works. In summary, the proposed FBANet, after pre-training, demonstrates superior performance on the HTP sketch dataset and is expected to be a method for the auxiliary diagnosis of depression.
A Quantum Model of Trust Calibration in Human–AI Interactions
Authors: Roeder Luisa , Hoyte Pamela , van der Meer Johan , Fell Lauren , Johnston Patrick , Kerr Graham , Bruza Peter
Published: September 2023

This exploratory study investigates a human agent’s evolving judgements of reliability when interacting with an AI system. Two aims drove this investigation: (1) compare the predictive performance of quantum vs. Markov random walk models regarding human reliability judgements of an AI system and (2) identify a neural correlate of the perturbation of a human agent’s judgement of the AI’s reliability. As AI becomes more prevalent, it is important to understand how humans trust these technologies and how trust evolves when interacting with them. A mixed-methods experiment was developed for exploring reliability calibration in human–AI interactions. The behavioural data collected were used as a baseline to assess the predictive performance of the quantum and Markov models. We found the quantum model to better predict the evolving reliability ratings than the Markov model. This may be due to the quantum model being more amenable to represent the sometimes pronounced within-subject variability of reliability ratings. Additionally, a clear event-related potential response was found in the electroencephalographic (EEG) data, which is attributed to the expectations of reliability being perturbed. The identification of a trust-related EEG-based measure opens the door to explore how it could be used to adapt the parameters of the quantum model in real time.