bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Uniqueness of Nonlinear Inverse Problem for Sturm–Liouville Operator with Multiple Delays
Authors: Gao Chenghua , Du Gaofeng
Published: March 2024

The inverse problem concerns how to reconstruct the operator from given spectral data. The main goal of this paper is to address nonlinear inverse Sturm–Liouville problem with multiple delays. By using a new technique and method: zero function extension, we establish the uniqueness result and practical method for recovering the nonlinear inverse problem from two spectra.
The acceptability of behavioural interventions in financial decision-making
Authors: de Jonge Patricia , Ungureanu Olga , Zeelenberg Marcel , Verlegh Peeter W. J.
Published: March 2024

Financial policymakers increasingly rely on behavioural insights to protect the interests of consumers. However, little is known about how citizens feel about interventions designed to nudge their financial behaviour. Most literature on the acceptability of behavioural interventions focuses on the health domain. To address this gap, we present the results of an experiment on the acceptability of seven financial behavioural interventions (N = 684, members of a panel of the Dutch Authority for the Financial Markets). We investigate the role of the agent implementing the intervention (policymaker versus financial company) and perceived effectiveness in relation to the acceptability of these interventions. The acceptability of behavioural interventions in financial decision-making appears to be lower than the acceptability levels found in previous studies. We find no effect of the agent on acceptability. Perceived effectiveness is strongly correlated with acceptability, but only perceived effectiveness in influencing one's own decisions has a consistently positive relationship with acceptability. Perceived effectiveness in influencing others' decisions has either no, a positive, or a negative relationship with acceptability. These results highlight that acceptability appears to be at least partly domain-specific and show that we have only just begun understanding the acceptability of behavioural interventions and its drivers.
Medical-Legal Partnerships Reinvigorate Systems Lawyering Using an Upstream Approach
Authors: Mitchell L. Kate , Chopp Debra
Published: March 2024

The upstream framework presented in public health and medicine considers health problems from a preventive perspective, seeking to understand and address the root causes of poor health. Medical-legal partnerships (MLPs) have demonstrated the value of this upstream framework in the practice of law and engage in upstream lawyering by utilizing systemic advocacy to address root causes of injustices and health inequities. This article explores upstreaming and its use by MLPs in reframing legal practice.
The Constitutionality of Medicare Drug-Price Negotiation under the Takings Clause
Authors: Bhargava Raj , Brown Nathan , Kapczynski Amy , Kesselheim Aaron S. , Lim Stephanie Y. , Morten Christopher J.
Published: March 2024

In recent months, pharmaceutical manufacturers have brought legal challenges to a provision of the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) empowering the federal government to negotiate the prices Medicare pays for certain prescription medications. One key argument made in these filings is that price negotiation is a “taking” of property and violates the Takings Clause of the US Constitution. Through original case law and health policy analysis, we show that government price negotiation and even price regulation of goods and services, including patented goods, are constitutional under the Takings Clause. Finding that the IRA violates the Takings Clause would radically upend settled constitutional law and jeopardize the US’s most important state and federal health care programs.
Shaping Global Health Law through United Nations Governance: The UN High-Level Meeting on Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness and Response
Authors: Meier Benjamin Mason , Finch Alexandra , Schwalbe Nina
Published: March 2024

The United Nations (UN) General Assembly High-Level Meeting (HLM) on pandemic prevention, preparedness and response (PPPR) was a missed opportunity to bring high-level commitment and momentum to the global governance of health emergencies. Intended to bring much-needed attention to a policy issue that is rapidly slipping down the international agenda, the fraught diplomacy among member states, lack of consensus on key issues, and weak UN Political Declaration in New York foreshadow a difficult road ahead for upcoming negotiations under the World Health Organization (WHO) in Geneva. This column chronicles the evolving engagement of the UN in global health governance, examines the diplomatic process leading to the UN HLM on PPPR, and assesses the contributions and missed opportunities of its resulting Political Declaration.
Taking the Long Way Around: Towards A Depathologized Ethical Framework of Gender-Affirming Care for Trans Youth
Authors: Kariyawasam Navin , Rai Nanky
Published: March 2024

Political debate regarding trans youth’s access to gender-affirming care (GAC) has pushed many to advocate for GAC by pointing to tragic, pathological outcomes of non-treatment, namely suicide. However, these pathologized arguments are a harmful ethical “shortcut” which should be replaced by a meaningful engagement with the ethics of providing GAC to youth.
Cognition in trichotillomania: a meta-analysis
Authors: Ali Aliza , Ioannidis Konstantinos , Grant Jon E. , Chamberlain Samuel R.
Published: March 2024

Objective

Trichotillomania (TTM) is a mental health disorder characterized by repetitive urges to pull out one’s hair. Cognitive deficits have been reported in people with TTM compared to controls; however, the current literature is sparse and inconclusive about affected domains. We aimed to synthesize research on cognitive functioning in TTM and investigate which cognitive domains are impaired.

Methods

After preregistration on the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO), we conducted a comprehensive literature search for papers examining cognition in people with TTM versus controls using validated tests. A total of 793 papers were screened using preestablished inclusion/exclusion criteria, yielding 15 eligible studies. Random-effects meta-analysis was conducted for 12 cognitive domains.

Results

Meta-analysis demonstrated significant deficits in motor inhibition and extradimensional (ED) shifting in people with TTM versus controls as measured by the stop-signal task (SST) (Hedge’s g = 0.45, [CI: 0.14, 0.75], p = .004) and ED set-shift task (g = 0.38, [CI: 0.13, 0.62], p = .003), respectively. There were no significant between-group differences in the other cognitive domains tested: verbal learning, intradimensional (ID) shifting, road map spatial ability, pattern recognition, nonverbal memory, executive planning, spatial span length, Stroop inhibition, Wisconsin card sorting, and visuospatial functioning. Findings were not significantly moderated by study quality scores.

Conclusions

Motor inhibition and ED set-shifting appear impaired in TTM. However, a cautious interpretation of results is necessary as samples were relatively small and frequently included comorbidities. Treatment interventions seeking to improve inhibitory control and cognitive flexibility merit exploration for TTM.
The association between dairy intake in adolescents on inflammation and risk markers of type 2 diabetes during young adulthood: results of the DONALD study
Authors: Hohoff Eva , Jankovic Nicole , Perrar Ines , Schnermann Maike , Herder Christian , Nöthlings Ute , Libuda Lars , Alexy Ute
Published: March 2024

Objective:

The aim of this analysis was to investigate whether habitual intake of total dairy (TD) or different dairy types (liquid, solid, fermented, non-fermented, low-fat, high-fat, low-sugar and high-sugar dairy) during adolescence is associated with biomarkers of low-grade inflammation as well as risk factors of type 2 diabetes in young adulthood.

Design:

Multivariable linear regression analyses were used to investigate prospective associations between estimated TD intake as well as intake of different types of dairy and a pro-inflammatory score, based on high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, IL-6, IL-18, leptin and adiponectin, and insulin resistance assessed as Homeostasis Model Assessment Insulin Resistance in an open-cohort study.

Setting:

Dortmund, Germany.

Participants:

Data from participants (n 375) of the DOrtmund Nutritional and Anthropometric Longitudinally Designed (DONALD) study were included, for whom at least two 3-d weighed dietary records during adolescence (median age: 11 years) and one blood sample in young adulthood (>18 years) were available.

Results:

There was no statistically significant association between TD intake or intake of any dairy type and the pro-inflammatory score (all P > 0·05). TD intake as well as each dairy type intake and insulin resistance also showed no association (all P > 0·05).

Conclusions:

The habitual intake of dairy or individual types of dairy during adolescence does not seem to have a major impact on low-grade systemic inflammation and insulin resistance in the long term. There was no indication regarding a restriction of dairy intake for healthy children and adolescents in terms of diabetes risk reduction.
Mobilizing William Godwin, the “Father of British Anarchism”: History, Strategy, and the Intellectual Cultures of Post-war British Anarchism
Authors: Adams Matthew S. , Hansson John-Erik
Published: March 2024

This article examines the reconfigurations of British anarchist politics and culture, focusing on the reception of William Godwin by three influential anarchist writers and activists: George Woodcock, Colin Ward, and Albert Meltzer. It argues that mobilizing Godwin was an important part of their efforts to define, and then defend, a particular version of anarchist intellectual culture in Britain, each with its own unique history and strategic perspectives regarding social and political change. These competing conceptualizations of Godwin's legacy and significance therefore reflected both their independent political and intellectual concerns and developing rifts in the broader anarchist movement, especially between proponents of gradualism and those of more militant forms of anarchism. Ultimately, for all three, Godwin became a cipher for internal ideological struggles in anarchist politics, as his pliable ideas were mobilized in the battle for the meaning of British anarchism.
“We Feel Sad for the Baby Because the Mother Is Bad” – A Positioning Analysis of Filipino Ob-Gyns on Women Who Have Undergone Abortion
Authors: Lee Mara Teresina D. , Canalita Raphael F. , Tong Janelle Angelica A. , Macapagal Ma. Elizabeth J.
Published: March 2024

Abstract: The criminalization of abortion has limited the access of women who seek to undergo abortion, resulting in women seeking unsafe means to acquire abortions. As experts on women’s reproductive health, obstetrician-gynecologists (ob-gyns) have the ability to influence the trajectory of abortion in the Philippines. Our research aimed to discover how Filipino ob-gyns position women who have undergone abortion, how they position themselves in relation to these women, and the rights and duties they ascribe to both themselves and these women. We conducted one-on-one in-depth, semistructured interviews with seven ob-gyns who are currently practicing across different institutions in Metro Manila. The analysis revealed reflexive and interactive positions, along with respective rights and duties of ob-gyns on women who have undergone abortion. The ob-gyns viewed themselves as protectors of religion, informed, moral enforcers, and sympathetic, while women who have undergone abortion were seen as religious transgressors, misinformed, having loose consciences, and selfish. These results imply that, should abortion be decriminalized, ob-gyns in the Philippines may still conscientiously object to performing the procedure for moral and religious reasons.
Dynamics and Controls of Methane Oxidation in the Aerobic Waters of Eastern China Marginal Seas
Authors: Liu Qiao , Du Guanxiang , Li Xiao‐Jun , Liu Jiarui , Meng Ni , Li Chun‐Yang , Liu Xiting , Zhang Guiling , Yang Gui‐Peng , Joye Samantha , Zhuang Guang‐Chao
Published: March 2024

Aerobic methane oxidation (MOx) mediated by methanotrophs is a crucial mechanism in controlling methane emissions from the surface ocean to the atmosphere. Coastal waters dominate global oceanic methane emissions, but the dynamics, controls and roles of MOx remain largely unconstrained in the marginal seas around China. Here, we conducted a variety of biogeochemical analyses to investigate the controls of methane cycling and the dynamics of methanotrophic activity in the East China Sea and Yellow Sea. Methane was supersaturated in the surface seawater and the concentrations ranged from 2.8 to 19.8 nM. The distribution of methane was regulated by the sources and sinks, which were influenced largely by hydrological and biogeochemical factors. Methane was turned over rapidly with high rates (k: 5 × 10−4–0.04 d−1), indicating the enzymatic capability of methanotrophic biomass to metabolize methane. Rates of MOx varied significantly between sites (1 × 10−3–0.60 nM d−1) and relatively high MOx rates were observed in shallow waters. MOx exhibited the Michaelis‐Menten kinetics with the V
max of 0.30 nM d−1 and a K
m of 78.3 nM. Methanotrophic activity was impacted by environmental factors such as methane availability, nutrient levels, bacterial production and temperature. Nutrient addition experiments demonstrated that phosphate elevated MOx rates, while the activity was largely inhibited by ammonium probably due to competitive inhibition of the methane monooxygenase by ammonia. Comparing the depth‐integrated MOx rates with the air‐sea fluxes at selected sites showed that methane consumed through microbial oxidation accounted for up to 78.1% of the total methane loss (=sum of MOx rates and air‐sea flux), highlighting the role of MOx as a microbial filter for methane emissions.
TAB182 regulates glycolytic metabolism by controlling LDHA transcription to impact tumor radiosensitivity
Authors: Chen Shi , Xie Da-Fei , Li Saiyu , Luo Jinhua , Han Yang , Guo Hejiang , Gao Shuaining , Huang Xin , Guan Hua , Huang Ruixue , Zhou Ping-Kun
Published: March 2024

Metabolic reprogramming, a hallmark of cancer, is closely associated with tumor development and progression. Changes in glycolysis play a crucial role in conferring radiation resistance to tumor cells. How radiation changes the glycolysis status of cancer cells is still unclear. Here we revealed the role of TAB182 in regulating glycolysis and lactate production in cellular response to ionizing radiation. Irradiation can significantly stimulate the production of TAB182 protein, and inhibiting TAB182 increases cellular radiosensitivity. Proteomic analysis indicated that TAB182 influences several vital biological processes, including multiple metabolic pathways. Knockdown of TAB182 results in decreased lactate production and increased pyruvate and ATP levels in cancer cells. Moreover, knocking down TAB182 reverses radiation-induced metabolic changes, such as radioresistant-related lactate production. TAB182 is necessary for activating LDHA transcription by affecting transcription factors SP1 and c-MYC; its knockdown attenuates the upregulation of LDHA by radiation, subsequently suppressing lactate production. Targeted suppression of TAB182 significantly enhances the sensitivity of murine xenograft tumors to radiotherapy. These findings advance our understanding of glycolytic metabolism regulation in response to ionizing radiation, which may offer significant implications for developing new strategies to overcome tumor radioresistance.
Stabilization of N6 and N8 anionic units and 2D polynitrogen layers in high-pressure scandium polynitrides
Authors: Aslandukov Andrey , Aslandukova Alena , Laniel Dominique , Khandarkhaeva Saiana , Yin Yuqing , Akbar Fariia I. , Chariton Stella , Prakapenka Vitali , Bright Eleanor Lawrence , Giacobbe Carlotta , Wright Jonathan , Comboni Davide , Hanfland Michael , Dubrovinskaia Natalia , Dubrovinsky Leonid
Published: March 2024

Nitrogen catenation under high pressure leads to the formation of polynitrogen compounds with potentially unique properties. The exploration of the entire spectrum of poly- and oligo-nitrogen moieties is still in its earliest stages. Here, we report on four novel scandium nitrides, Sc2N6, Sc2N8, ScN5, and Sc4N3, synthesized by direct reaction between yttrium and nitrogen at 78-125 GPa and 2500 K in laser-heated diamond anvil cells. High-pressure synchrotron single-crystal X-ray diffraction reveals that in the crystal structures of the nitrogen-rich Sc2N6, Sc2N8, and ScN5 phases nitrogen is catenated forming previously unknown N66− and N86− units and $${\!\,}_{\infty }{\!\,}^{2}({{{{{\rm{N}}}}}}_{5}^{3-})$$

∞

2

(

N

5

3
−

)

anionic corrugated 2D-polynitrogen layers consisting of fused N12 rings. Density functional theory calculations, confirming the dynamical stability of the synthesized compounds, show that Sc2N6 and Sc2N8 possess an anion-driven metallicity, while ScN5 is an indirect semiconductor. Sc2N6, Sc2N8, and ScN5 solids are promising high-energy-density materials with calculated volumetric energy density, detonation velocity, and detonation pressure higher than those of TNT.
Non-native ants are breaking down biogeographic boundaries and homogenizing community assemblages
Authors: Aulus-Giacosa Lucie , Ollier Sébastien , Bertelsmeier Cleo
Published: March 2024

As geographic distance increases, species assemblages become more distinct, defining global biogeographic realms with abrupt biogeographic boundaries. Yet, it remains largely unknown to what extent these realms may change because of human-mediated dispersal of species. Focusing on the distributions of 309 non-native ant species, we show that historical biogeographic patterns have already broken down into tropical versus non-tropical regions. Importantly, we demonstrate that these profound changes are not limited to the distribution patterns of non-native ants but fundamentally alter biogeographic boundaries of all ant biodiversity (13,774 species). In total, 52% of ant assemblages have become more similar, supporting a global trend of biotic homogenization. Strikingly, this trend was strongest on islands and in the tropics, which harbor some of the most vulnerable ecosystems. Overall, we show that the pervasive anthropogenic impacts on biodiversity override biogeographic patterns resulting from millions of years of evolution, and disproportionally affect particular regions.
Pushing the thinness limit of silver films for flexible optoelectronic devices via ion-beam thinning-back process
Authors: Ma Dongxu , Ji Ming , Yi Hongbo , Wang Qingyu , Fan Fu , Feng Bo , Zheng Mengjie , Chen Yiqin , Duan Huigao
Published: March 2024

Reducing the silver film to 10 nm theoretically allows higher transparency but in practice leads to degraded transparency and electrical conductivity because the ultrathin film tends to be discontinuous. Herein, we developed a thinning-back process to address this dilemma, in which silver film is first deposited to a larger thickness with high continuity and then thinned back to a reduced thickness with an ultrasmooth surface, both implemented by a flood ion beam. Contributed by the shallow implantation of silver atoms into the substrate during deposition, the thinness of silver films down to 4.5 nm can be obtained, thinner than ever before. The atomic-level surface smooth permits excellent visible transparency, electrical conductivity, and the lowest haze among all existing transparent conductors. Moreover, the ultrathin silver film exhibits the unique robustness of mechanical flexibility. Therefore, the ion-beam thinning-back process presents a promising solution towards the excellent transparent conductor for flexible optoelectronic devices.
Distributed neural representations of conditioned threat in the human brain
Authors: Wen Zhenfu , Pace-Schott Edward F. , Lazar Sara W. , Rosén Jörgen , Åhs Fredrik , Phelps Elizabeth A. , LeDoux Joseph E. , Milad Mohammed R.
Published: March 2024

Detecting and responding to threat engages several neural nodes including the amygdala, hippocampus, insular cortex, and medial prefrontal cortices. Recent propositions call for the integration of more distributed neural nodes that process sensory and cognitive facets related to threat. Integrative, sensitive, and reproducible distributed neural decoders for the detection and response to threat and safety have yet to be established. We combine functional MRI data across varying threat conditioning and negative affect paradigms from 1465 participants with multivariate pattern analysis to investigate distributed neural representations of threat and safety. The trained decoders sensitively and specifically distinguish between threat and safety cues across multiple datasets. We further show that many neural nodes dynamically shift representations between threat and safety. Our results establish reproducible decoders that integrate neural circuits, merging the well-characterized ‘threat circuit’ with sensory and cognitive nodes, discriminating threat from safety regardless of experimental designs or data acquisition parameters.
3D printing by stereolithography using thermal initiators
Authors: Kam Doron , Rulf Omri , Reisinger Amir , Lieberman Rama , Magdassi Shlomo
Published: March 2024

Additive manufacturing technologies based on stereolithography rely on initiating spatial photopolymerization by using photoinitiators activated by UV-visible light. Many applications requiring printing in water are limited since water-soluble photoinitiators are scarce, and their price is skyrocketing. On the contrary, thermal initiators are widely used in the chemical industry for polymerization processes due to their low cost and simplicity of initiation by heat at low temperatures. However, such initiators were never used in 3D printing technologies, such as vat photopolymerization stereolithography, since localizing the heat at specific printing voxels is impossible. Here we propose using a thermal initiator for 3D printing for localized polymerization processes by near-infrared and visible light irradiation without conventional photoinitiators. This is enabled by using gold nanorods or silver nanoparticles at very low concentrations as photothermal converters in aqueous and non-aqueous mediums. Our proof of concept demonstrates the fabrication of hydrogel and polymeric objects using stereolithography-based 3D printers, vat photopolymerization, and two-photon printing.
Decomposing cortical activity through neuronal tracing connectome-eigenmodes in marmosets
Authors: Xia Jie , Liu Cirong , Li Jiao , Meng Yao , Yang Siqi , Chen Huafu , Liao Wei
Published: March 2024

Deciphering the complex relationship between neuroanatomical connections and functional activity in primate brains remains a daunting task, especially regarding the influence of monosynaptic connectivity on cortical activity. Here, we investigate the anatomical-functional relationship and decompose the neuronal-tracing connectome of marmoset brains into a series of eigenmodes using graph signal processing. These cellular connectome eigenmodes effectively constrain the cortical activity derived from resting-state functional MRI, and uncover a patterned cellular-functional decoupling. This pattern reveals a spatial gradient from coupled dorsal-posterior to decoupled ventral-anterior cortices, and recapitulates micro-structural profiles and macro-scale hierarchical cortical organization. Notably, these marmoset-derived eigenmodes may facilitate the inference of spontaneous cortical activity and functional connectivity of homologous areas in humans, highlighting the potential generalizing of the connectomic constraints across species. Collectively, our findings illuminate how neuronal-tracing connectome eigenmodes constrain cortical activity and improve our understanding of the brain’s anatomical-functional relationship.
Water surface garbage detection based on lightweight YOLOv5
Authors: Chen Luya , Zhu Jianping
Published: March 2024

With the development of deep learning technology, researchers are increasingly paying attention to how to efficiently salvage surface garbage. Since the 1980s, the development of plastic products and economic growth has led to the accumulation of a large amount of garbage in rivers. Due to the large amount of garbage and the high risk of surface operations, the efficiency of manual garbage retrieval will be greatly reduced. Among existing methods, using YOLO algorithm to detect target objects is the most popular. Compared to traditional detection algorithms, YOLO algorithm not only has higher accuracy, but also is more lightweight. This article presents a lightweight YOLOv5 water surface garbage detection algorithm suitable for deployment on unmanned ships. This article has been validated on the Orca dataset, experimental results showed that the detection speed of the improved YOLOv5 increased by 4.3%, mAP value reached 84.9%, precision reached 88.7%, the parameter quantity only accounts for 12% of the original data. Compared with the original algorithm, the improved algorithm not only has higher accuracy, but also can be applied to more hardware devices due to its lighter weight.
Belief-consistent information is most shared despite being the least surprising
Authors: Goebel Jacob T. , Susmann Mark W. , Parthasarathy Srinivasan , El Gamal Hesham , Garrett R. Kelly , Wegener Duane T.
Published: March 2024

In the classical information theoretic framework, information “value” is proportional to how novel/surprising the information is. Recent work building on such notions claimed that false news spreads faster than truth online because false news is more novel and therefore surprising. However, another determinant of surprise, semantic meaning (e.g., information’s consistency or inconsistency with prior beliefs), should also influence value and sharing. Examining sharing behavior on Twitter, we observed separate relations of novelty and belief consistency with sharing. Though surprise could not be assessed in those studies, belief consistency should relate to less surprise, suggesting the relevance of semantic meaning beyond novelty. In two controlled experiments, belief-consistent (vs. belief-inconsistent) information was shared more despite consistent information being the least surprising. Manipulated novelty did not predict sharing or surprise. Thus, classical information theoretic predictions regarding perceived value and sharing would benefit from considering semantic meaning in contexts where people hold pre-existing beliefs.
Computational prediction of workability and mechanical properties of bentonite plastic concrete using multi-expression programming
Authors: Khan Majid , Ali Mujahid , Najeh Taoufik , Gamil Yaser
Published: March 2024

Bentonite plastic concrete (BPC) demonstrated promising potential for remedial cut-off wall construction to mitigate dam seepage, as it fulfills essential criteria for strength, stiffness, and permeability. High workability and consistency are essential attributes for BPC because it is poured into trenches using a tremie pipe, emphasizing the importance of accurately predicting the slump of BPC. In addition, prediction models offer valuable tools to estimate various strength parameters, enabling adjustments to BPC mixing designs to optimize project construction, leading to cost and time savings. Therefore, this study explores the multi-expression programming (MEP) technique to predict the key characteristics of BPC, such as slump, compressive strength (fc), and elastic modulus (Ec). In the present study, 158, 169, and 111 data points were collected from the experimental studies for the slump, fc, and Ec, respectively. The dataset was divided into three sets: 70% for training, 15% for testing, and another 15% for model validation. The MEP models exhibited excellent accuracy with a correlation coefficient (R) of 0.9999 for slump, 0.9831 for fc, and 0.9300 for Ec. Furthermore, the comparative analysis between MEP models and conventional linear and non-linear regression models revealed remarkable precision in the predictions of the proposed MEP models, surpassing the accuracy of traditional regression methods. SHapley Additive exPlanation analysis indicated that water, cement, and bentonite exert significant influence on slump, with water having the greatest impact on compressive strength, while curing time and cement exhibit a higher influence on elastic modulus. In summary, the application of machine learning algorithms offers the capability to deliver prompt and precise early estimates of BPC properties, thus optimizing the efficiency of construction and design processes.
Inorganic–organic modular silicon and dye-sensitized solar cells and predicted role of artificial intelligence towards efficient and stable solar chargers based on supercapacitors
Authors: Plebankiewicz Ireneusz , Bogdanowicz Krzysztof A. , Kwaśnicki Pawel , Przybył Wojciech , Skunik-Nuckowska Magdalena , Kulesza Pawel J. , Iwan Agnieszka
Published: March 2024

Appropriate and rational management of the energy produced by renewable energy sources is one of the most urgent challenges for the global energy sector. This paper is devoted to the systematic experimental and theoretical studies of a modular solar charger based on silicon and dye-sensitized solar cells as an energy source, and supercapacitor as an energy bank. Using the MathCAD program, I–V characteristics were plotted for both a single cell and a photovoltaic module based on various series-to-parallel connections. To assess the surface quality of the modules, additional tests using a thermal imaging camera were carried out as well. The charging characteristics of the supercapacitor (two series-connected cells with a capacity of 300 F), were determined depending on the parameters of the photovoltaic module as well as considering the influence of the voltage balancing system and control system. The charge, discharge, and recharge characteristics were carefully analyzed to optimize the operating conditions, i.e. the number of photovoltaic cells. To evaluate the stability of parameters with operation time, and their temperature dependence (17–65 °C), solar modules were tested for ten days under Central European weather conditions. Importantly, a comparative analysis of solar chargers based on different configurations of photovoltaic cells showed an increase in electrical parameters for the proposed modular inorganic–organic concept compared to dye-sensitized solar cells produced alone on a rigid substrate. Finally, preliminary assumptions (requirements) were developed regarding the electrical and optical parameters for new dye-sensitized solar cells that could be used in the innovative solar charger instead of silicon cells along with a predicted role of artificial intelligence (AI) in these devices.
Urban visual pollution: comparison of two ways of evaluation—a case study from Europe
Authors: Borowiak Klaudia , Budka Anna , Lisiak-Zielińska Marta , Robaszkiewicz Kinga , Cakaj Arlinda , Agaj Tropikë
Published: March 2024

Visual pollution by outdoor advertisements (OAs) of the urban landscape in the old town of Gniezno city (Poland) was the main aim of the presented work. For this purpose, the part of Warszawska Street located near the old market was selected. The detailed objective of the work was to evaluate the effect of OA on the building perception and compare two different methods to check the possibility of their interchangeably potential. The city audit and public opinion about selected buildings were performed. The photographs with and without OAs were also analyzed. The statistical analysis was performed to find the significant differences between these two methods and define differences between groups of respondents. In general, the results revealed the strong effect of the building quality (condition and appearance of the building) on the final score of the building perception. This was valid for both evaluation methods. The significant differences between building perception with and without OAs and groups of respondents were found only for the building with good facade quality. While, in the case of low-quality buildings the perception of the urban landscape was low regardless of the presence of OAs. Moreover, we can primarily conclude that city audit and survey of public opinion can be used interchangeably.
Verification of a novel stress path method by true-triaxial test
Authors: Ma Zhigang , Li Xuefeng , Lv Longlong
Published: March 2024

To verify the novel method of achieving a true-triaxial stress path with the pseudo-triaxial apparatus, a series of drained and undrained tests were carried out for the identical scheme with pseudo-triaxial apparatus and true-triaxial apparatus respectively. The differences between the two types of tests were quantified. The results show that the novel method effectively achieved the true-triaxial stress path by controlling the loading ratio of the pseudo-triaxial apparatus. The relationships of q − ε1 and η − εs measured by the two apparatuses had a higher similarity which decreases slightly with the b increase. When 0 ≤ b < 0.5, the slope of the critical state line measured by both apparatuses was almost identical. When 0.5 ≤ b ≤ 1, the slope of the critical state line measured by the novel method was slightly lower, but the biggest change was within 10% compared with the two Mohr–Coulomb criteria, the peak strength measured by the two apparatuses was distributed near the criteria, indicating the feasibility and rationality of the novel method. The tests show that the novel method greatly enriches the test range of pseudo-triaxial apparatus, which not only simplifies the process of soil 3D testing but also reduces the test cost.
Association between alanine aminotransferase to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: a retrospective cohort study in lean Chinese individuals
Authors: Cao Changchun , Mo Zihe , Han Yong , Luo Jiao , Hu Haofei , Yang Dehua , He Yongcheng
Published: March 2024

There is limited research on the association between the alanine aminotransferase to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio (ALT/HDL-C) ratio and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The purpose of the current research was to look into the connection between the ALT/HDL-C ratio and the risk of NAFLD in lean Chinese individuals. Between January 2010 and December 2014, 11,975 non-obese people participated in this prospective cohort research. The relationship between the ALT/HDL-C ratio and the risk of developing NAFLD was assessed using the Cox proportional-hazards regression model, Cox proportional hazards regression with cubic spline functions and smooth curve fitting, sensitivity analysis, and subgroup analyses. The ALT/HDL-C ratio’s potential value as a NAFLD prognostic marker was to be evaluated using the receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. A total of 5419 (45.253%) women comprised the research's participant population, and the research participants’ average age was 43.278 ± 14.941 years. The ALT/HDL-C ratio was 11.607 (7.973–17.422) at the median (interquartile ranges). 2087 (17.428%) patients had NAFLD diagnoses throughout a median follow-up of 24.967 months. The study's findings demonstrated a positive connection between the ALT/AHDL-C ratio and the incident NAFLD (HR = 1.037, 95% CI: 1.031–1.042) when adjusting for relevant factors. The ALT/HDL-C ratio and NAFLD risk had a nonlinear connection, with 12.963 as the ratio's inflection point. Effect sizes (HR) were 1.023 (95% CI: 1.017–1.029) and 1.204 (95% CI: 1.171–1.237), respectively, on the right and left sides of the inflection point. The sensitivity analysis also showed how reliable our findings were. According to subgroup analysis, those with BMI < 24 kg/m2 and DBP < 90 mmHg had a stronger correlation between the ALT/HDL-C ratio and NAFLD risk. The current study shows a positive and non-linear connection between the ALT/HDL-C ratio and NAFLD risk in lean Chinese individuals. When the ALT/HDL-C ratio is less than 12.963, it is significantly linked to NAFLD. Therefore, from a therapy standpoint, it is advised to keep the ALT/HDL-C ratio less than the inflection point.
Preoperative DLco and FEV1 are correlated with postoperative pulmonary complications in patients after esophagectomy
Authors: Kim Taeyun , Jeon Yeong Jeong , Lee Hyun , Kim Tae Ho , Park Seong Yong , Kang Danbee , Hong Yun Soo , Lee Genehee , Lee Junghee , Shin Sumin , Cho Jong Ho , Choi Yong Soo , Kim Jhingook , Cho Juhee , Zo Jae Ill , Shim Young Mog , Kim Hong Kwan , Park Hye Yun
Published: March 2024

Limited information is available regarding the association between preoperative lung function and postoperative pulmonary complications (PPCs) in patients with esophageal cancer who undergo esophagectomy. This is a retrospective cohort study. Patients were classified into low and high lung function groups by the cutoff of the lowest fifth quintile of forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) %predicted (%pred) and diffusing capacity of the carbon monoxide (DLco) %pred. The PPCs compromised of atelectasis requiring bronchoscopic intervention, pneumonia, and acute lung injury/acute respiratory distress syndrome. Modified multivariable-adjusted Poisson regression model using robust error variances and inverse probability treatment weighting (IPTW) were used to assess the relative risk (RR) for the PPCs. A joint effect model considered FEV1%pred and DLco %pred together for the estimation of RR for the PPCs. Of 810 patients with esophageal cancer who underwent esophagectomy, 159 (19.6%) developed PPCs. The adjusted RR for PPCs in the low FEV1 group relative to high FEV1 group was 1.48 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.09–2.00) and 1.98 (95% CI = 1.46–2.68) in the low DLco group relative to the high DLco group. A joint effect model showed adjusted RR of PPCs was highest in patients with low DLco and low FEV1 followed by low DLco and high FEV1, high DLco and low FEV1, and high DLco and high FEV1 (Reference). Results were consistent with the IPTW. Reduced preoperative lung function (FEV1 and DLco) is associated with post-esophagectomy PPCs. The risk was further strengthened when both values decreased together.
Observational study on the non-linear response of dolphins to the presence of vessels
Authors: Diamant Roee , Testolin Alberto , Shachar Ilan , Galili Ori , Scheinin Aviad
Published: March 2024

With the large increase in human marine activity, our seas have become populated with vessels that can be overheard from distances of even 20 km. Prior investigations showed that such a dense presence of vessels impacts the behaviour of marine animals, and in particular dolphins. While previous explorations were based on a linear observation for changes in the features of dolphin whistles, in this work we examine non-linear responses of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops Truncatus) to the presence of vessels. We explored the response of dolphins to vessels by continuously recording acoustic data using two long-term acoustic recorders deployed near a shipping lane and a dolphin habitat in Eilat, Israel. Using deep learning methods we detected a large number of 50,000 whistles, which were clustered to associate whistle traces and to characterize their features to discriminate vocalizations of dolphins: both structure and quantities. Using a non-linear classifier, the whistles were categorized into two classes representing the presence or absence of a nearby vessel. Although our database does not show linear observable change in the features of the whistles, we obtained true positive and true negative rates exceeding 90% accuracy on separate, left-out test sets. We argue that this success in classification serves as a statistical proof for a non-linear response of dolphins to the presence of vessels.
Machine learning-based fracturing parameter optimization for horizontal wells in Panke field shale oil
Authors: Li Weirong , Zhang Tianyang , Liu Xinju , Dong Zhenzhen , Dong Guoqing , Qian Shihao , Yang Zhanrong , Zou Lu , Lin Keze , Zhang Tao
Published: March 2024

In the process of developing tight oil and gas reservoirs, multistage fractured horizontal wells (NFHWs) can greatly increase the production rate, and the optimal design of its fracturing parameters is also an important means to further increase the production rate. Accurate production prediction is essential for the formulation of effective development strategies and development plans before and during project execution. In this study, a novel workflow incorporating machine learning (ML) and particle swarm optimization algorithms (PSO) is proposed to predict the production rate of multi-stage fractured horizontal wells in tight reservoirs and optimize the fracturing parameters. The researchers conducted 10,000 numerical simulation experiments to build a complete training and validation dataset, based on which five machine learning production prediction models were developed. As input variables for yield prediction, eight key factors affecting yield were selected. The results of the study show that among the five models, the random forest (RF) model best establishes the mapping relationship between feature variables and yield. After verifying the validity of the Random Forest-based yield prediction model, the researchers combined it with the particle swarm optimization algorithm to determine the optimal combination of fracturing parameters under the condition of maximizing the net present value. A hybrid model, called ML-PSO, is proposed to overcome the limitations of current production forecasting studies, which are difficult to maximize economic returns and optimize the fracturing scheme based on operator preferences (e.g., target NPV). The designed workflow can not only accurately and efficiently predict the production of multi-stage fractured horizontal wells in real-time, but also be used as a parameter selection tool to optimize the fracture design. This study promotes data-driven decision-making for oil and gas development, and its tight reservoir production forecasts provide the basis for accurate forecasting models for the oil and gas industry.
Evaluation metrics and statistical tests for machine learning
Authors: Rainio Oona , Teuho Jarmo , Klén Riku
Published: March 2024

Research on different machine learning (ML) has become incredibly popular during the past few decades. However, for some researchers not familiar with statistics, it might be difficult to understand how to evaluate the performance of ML models and compare them with each other. Here, we introduce the most common evaluation metrics used for the typical supervised ML tasks including binary, multi-class, and multi-label classification, regression, image segmentation, object detection, and information retrieval. We explain how to choose a suitable statistical test for comparing models, how to obtain enough values of the metric for testing, and how to perform the test and interpret its results. We also present a few practical examples about comparing convolutional neural networks used to classify X-rays with different lung infections and detect cancer tumors in positron emission tomography images.
Preparation and Physicochemical Characterization of Hyaluronic Acid-Lysine Nanogels Containing Serratiopeptidase to Control Biofilm Formation
Authors: Mahdiani Hanieh , Yazdani Faegheh , Khoramipour Mahsa , Valizadeh Vahideh , Bakhshandeh Haleh , Dinarvand Rassoul
Published: March 2024

Remarkable resistance of bacterial biofilms to high doses of antimicrobials and antibiotics is one of their main challenges. Encapsulation of proteolytic enzymes is one of the suggested strategies to tackle this problem. In this regard, the antibacterial and anti-biofilm activity of biocompatible hyaluronic acid- Lysine nanogels containing serratiopeptidase (SRP-loaded HA-Lys nanogel) was assessed against P. aeruginosa and S. aureus strains. SRP-loaded HA-Lys nanogel was prepared using dropping method and optimized by Box-Behnken experimental design. These formulations were studied for physical characterization, release profile, stability, bioactivity, and anti-biofilm effects. The particle size, polydispersity index (PDI), and surface charge were measured by Zetasizer Nano ZS. The average particle size and zeta potential of the optimum sample were 156 nm and -14.1 mV, respectively. SRP release showed an initial burst followed by sustained release and the highest release was around 77%. Enzyme biological activity data revealed the higher efficiency of free SRP compared to SRP-loaded HA-Lys nanogel. The time-kill assay showed that both forms of SRP-loaded HA-Lys nanogel and blank HA-Lys nanogel showed significant antimicrobial activity against examined bacteria in comparison to the free enzyme. The obtained results demonstrated improved anti-biofilm efficacy and down regulation of tested biofilm genes for both SRP-loaded HA-Lys nanogel 100% and blank HA-Lys nanogel 100% compared to SRP 100%.
Association between sarcopenia and hearing impairment in middle-aged and elderly people in China: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Zhang Zeqi
Published: March 2024

This study used longitudinal data from CHARLS 2011–2018 for cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses to investigate the relationship between sarcopenia and hearing impairment in middle-aged and elderly adults in China. The study selected 9723 participants aged 45 years and older from CHARLS 2011 and followed up in 2015 and 2018. Binary logistic regression and cox proportional risk regression models were used for testing. The results of the study showed that in the cross-sectional analysis, probable sarcopenia was significantly associated with hearing impairment compared with the group without sarcopenia [OR (95% CI) 0.342 (1.187, 1.669), p < 0.001], but sarcopenia was not significantly associated with hearing impairment. In the longitudinal analysis, middle-aged and elderly adults with sarcopenia [HR (95% CI) 0.354 (1.043, 1.945), p < 0.01] were more likely to have hearing impairment than those with probable sarcopenia and without sarcopenia. Probable sarcopenia was strongly associated with hearing impairment in middle-aged and elderly adults, whereas sarcopenia was a strong predictor of hearing impairment over the next 7 years. The results of this study emphasize the urgent need for measures to address sarcopenia in order to prevent and delay the decline in hearing function.
Prevalence of urgent hospitalizations caused by adverse drug reactions: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Komagamine Junpei
Published: March 2024

Adverse drug reactions account for a substantial portion of emergency hospital admissions. However, in the last decade, few studies have been conducted to determine the prevalence of hospitalization due to adverse drug reactions. Therefore, this cross-sectional study was conducted to determine the proportion of adverse drug reactions leading to emergency hospital admission and to evaluate the risk factors for these reactions. A total of 5707 consecutive patients aged > 18 years who were emergently hospitalized due to acute medical illnesses between June 2018 and May 2021 were included. Causality assessment for adverse drug reactions was performed by using the World Health Organization-Uppsala Monitoring Centre criteria. The median patient age was 78 years (IQR 63–87), and the proportion of women was 47.9%. Among all the hospitalizations, 287 (5.0%; 95% confidence interval (CI) 4.5–5.6%) were caused by 368 adverse drug reactions. The risk factors independently associated with hospitalization due to adverse drug reactions were polypharmacy (OR 2.66), age ≥ 65 years (OR 2.00), and ambulance use (OR 1.41). Given that the population is rapidly aging worldwide, further efforts are needed to minimize hospitalizations caused by adverse drug reactions.