bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Fast Distance Transform Algorithm Based on Parallel Computing for Digital Rock Image Processing
Authors: Shi Xiaoting , Mao Tan , Zha Junyan , Su Qiang , Wang Xin , Cheng Youliang
Published: June 2024

Distance transform (DT) can accurately represent spatial information relationship, and it has been widely used in digital core analysis, such as computer image processing, pattern recognition, and etc. However, for large-resolution 2D/3D images, the existing serial Euclidean distance transform (EDT) algorithm is time-consuming and memory-consuming. This paper proposed a parallel implementation of fast Euclidean distance transform in neighborhood based on data set decomposition, which is called as Parallel Computing EDT (PCEDT). The distance transformation is completed efficiently and accurately by data segmentation, batch calculation, and results combination. Compared with other EDT algorithms, PCEDT algorithm is more efficient and more suitable, especially for 20003 Voxels to 40003 voxels data amount to deal with when applied in practical applications.
Identification of Genetic Variants in Patients with Idiopathic Ventricular Arrhythmia by Taiwan Arrhythmia Gene Panel Implying Underlying Mechanisms
Authors: Chen Jien Jiun , Chang Sheng-Nan , Chiu Fu-Chun , Huang Pang-Shuo , Wu Cho-Kai , Wang Yi-Chih , Hwang Juey-Jen , Tsai Chia-Ti
Published: June 2024

Background
Sudden cardiac death (SCD) due to idiopathic ventricular tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation is a catastrophic disease. Its genetic basis is heterogeneous and has been rarely addressed in Asia. We aim to find variants in an Asian cohort of idiopathic ventricular arrhythmia (IVA).
Methods
Nationwide patients with IVA were consecutively recruited. We designed a SCD gene panel (134 genes) to detect variants by next-generation sequencing (NGS) including most of the channelopathy and cardiomyopathy genes.
Results
A total of 40 IVA patients were included. Thirteen variants with unknown significance (VUS) and 7 pathogenic/likely pathogenic (P/LP) variants were identified in 20 patients (50%). All variants were novel and not found in dbSNP, ExAC and our general population. The identified variants were in genes implicated for long QT or Brugada syndromes (SCN5A, KCNH2, CACNA1C and ANK2), cardiomyopathy (MYH6, DSP and TTN) and catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (RYR2). Patients with P/LP were younger, and more were women than those with VUS.
Conclusions
A high yield rate of genetic test was found in the largest NGS cohort of Asian IVA patients. These patients should be vigorously followed up for possible channelopathy or cardiomyopathy with repeated provocative test and myocardial imaging.
“Well, it’s very doctor-related” – Interprofessional communication and collaboration between general practitioners and nurses: a qualitative study in Southern Germany
Authors: Nordmann Kim , Sauter Stefanie , Redlich Marie-Christin , Möbius-Lerch Patricia , Schaller Michael , Fischer Florian
Published: June 2024

Background: The demographic transition in Germany is leading to an increase in the number of people needing care or nursing services in their own homes. Interprofessional communication and collaboration among healthcare professions providing outpatient care is paramount to ensure effective and high-quality patient-centred care. However, interprofessional communication and collaboration comes with complex prerequisites and rarely works smoothly. Thus, it is necessary to assess the current status quo.
Therefore, the aim is to characterize communication patterns, factors influencing interprofessional communication and collaboration and expectations towards communication and collaboration between home-care nursing services and general practitioner practices in Germany.
Methods:Semi-structured interviews with healthcare professionals in general practitioners’ practices and nurses working in home-care nursing services were conducted in southern Germany. The interviews were analysed using inductive thematic content analysis.
Results: Current communication occurs via fax, telephone or personal contact for various purposes, including the emission or rectification of medical orders and exchanging information about change in a patient’s condition. Key factors influencing interprofessional communication are organizational (e.g., lack of direct communication), profession-related (e.g., hierarchy) and individual (e.g., capacity to provide care). Interprofessional collaboration is scarce. Nurses and general practitioners expect uncomplicated, efficient and quick communication and collaboration through set channels.
Conclusions: Current interaction patterns are deficient and require political, structural and educational changes to establish well-functioning collaboration in the ambulant sector that facilitates patient-centred care. Educational and political reforms should comprise expanding interprofessional education in curricula and the introduction of clear and secure communication channels.
MDIAM: A Multi-Device Identity Authentication Mechanism Based on Blockchain and Fuzzy Extractor
Authors: Wang Liang , Wang Zhipeng , Zuo Lina , Liu Haibo
Published: June 2024

With the widespread deployment of Internet of Things (IoT) devices, security issues with identity authentication are becoming increasingly prominent. Traditional methods of identity authentication cannot adequately meet the security requirements for managing multiple devices in IoT contexts. Therefore, we propose an innovative IoT multi-device identity authentication mechanism (MDIAM), which is designed based on fuzzy extractor and blockchain technology. MDIAM enables users to set different identity credentials on multiple IoT devices using just one fingerprint. The MDIAM adopts a novel password generation algorithm based on Chebyshev polynomials. This algorithm cleverly transforms the string-form fingerprint feature into multiple sets of passwords, providing crucial technical support for the mechanism. Additionally,we conducted experimental simulations and security analyses on the mechanism. The experiment simulates the actual operational process of the mechanism and analyzes various potential attacks it may face. Through in-depth security analysis, we comprehensively evaluated the mechanism, and the results showed its ability to resist common attack methods such as brute force attacks and man-in-the-middle attacks. We focused on identifying and addressing potential security vulnerabilities, further proving its security and reliability.
Early Cretaceous Troodontine Troodontid (Dinosauria: Theropoda) from the Ohyamashimo Formation of Japan Reveals the Early Evolution of Troodontinae
Authors: Kubota Katsuhiro , Kobayashi Yoshitsugu , Ikeda Tadahiro
Published: June 2024

A new troodontid dinosaur, Hypnovenator sasayamaensis gen. et sp. nov., is described based on an articulated postcranial skeleton recovered from the fluvial deposits of the Albian Ohyamashimo Formation of the Sasayama Group in Tambasasayama City, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan. Hypnovenator is distinguished from other troodontids by four autapomorphies and a combination of additional features. Our phylogenetic analysis positions Hypnovenator as the oldest and one of the most basal troodontines, forming a monophyletic clade with Gobivenator mongoliensis. The discovery of Hypnovenator suggests that small-bodied maniraptorans with a sleeping posture were common not only in environments with volcanic and eolian events or alluvial systems but also in fluvial systems. Geometric morphometric analysis of manual unguals shows that manual unguals I and III of Hypnovenator exhibit considerable morphological variation but are functionally similar, which differs from those of non-troodontine troodontids, reflecting the transition of manual motion within Troodontinae. Hypnovenator also has mosaic features in the pes related to cursoriality. This study reveals that asymmetrical arctometatarsus occurred by the Albian, and some morphological changes, such as shorter digit IV than digit III and non-ungual phalanges of digits III with roller joints and digit IV with weakly ginglymoid articulation, arose during the early Late Cretaceous.
Enhancing Subgrade Efficiency with Industrial Ash & Geotextile Combinations for Economical Pavement Solutions
Authors: Rusia Saket , Rathi Aanchal , Verma Aniket , Baranwal Ankit , Verma Sandhya
Published: June 2024

The effectiveness of a pavement relies heavily on the characteristics of the soil subgrade, as it works as the foundation for the entire pavement structure. For that reason, subgrade has to hold sufficient stability under adverse climatic and loading conditions. This project mainly focuses on investigating the engineering properties of soil with varying compositions of geotextile sheets, industrial waste rice husk ash, and fly ash to further increase the bearing capacity of soil. The current study was organized in two phases. Initially, the impact of varying proportions of rice husk ash (RHA) (2.5%, 5%, 7.5%, and 10%), similarly for fly ash (5%, 10%, 15%, and 20%), and geotextile layers positioned at varying depths were examined independently to check their individual effects on soil stability. After that, to determine the ideal quantity that can be utilized for soil stabilization and improvement, the rice husk ash and fly ash are mixed along with the geotextile sheets as reinforcement with the soil sample. In our study, the proctor test is carried out on the samples of RHA and fly ash to find out their maximum dry density (MDD) and optimum moisture content (OMC). Then the samples of RHA and fly ash are together compacted to their MDD at the optimum moisture content, with or without reinforcement of geotextile sheets in the CBR mould. The prime focus of the research is to contribute the supporting outcomes to building guidelines for rural roads; thus, soaked and unsoaked CBR with light compaction methodology have been opted for. More than 50 samples have been tested. Geotextile sheets obtained from a reputed industrial outlet that match the size of the CBR mould are laid in separate preparations of different layers at various depths in the CBR mould. After each arrangement, the CBR values are assessed in the lab and compared with the CBR values of unmodified soil samples. At the end of our study, it was concluded that the soaked and unsoaked CBR values increased by up to 73.89% and 60.50%, respectively, when 15% fly ash, 5% RHA, and 80% soil were combined with various layers of geotextile sheets. The characteristics of the soil can be improved, and the thickness of the subgrade layer can be decreased by 25%, by interposing the geotextile sheets between the subgrade layers, resulting in a more affordable pavement. This means that the mixing of these materials with clayey sand soil is capable of improving their engineering properties, such as increasing their bearing capacity, reducing their plasticity, and enhancing their durability. MORTH has suggested wide use of geotextiles, but the need to incorporate their use along with industrial waste on Rural roads while following current MORD guidelines is still a pressing research topic. Research outcomes made it a great way to optimize the performance of clayey-sand soil for construction purposes.
The prognostic risk model of ESCA patients was constructed based on intercellular-related genes
Authors: Cao Wei , Jin Dacheng , Min Weirun , Li Haochi , Wang Rong , Zhang Jinlong , Gou Yunjiu
Published: June 2024

Background
Esophageal cancer is a serious malignant tumor disease. Radiotherapy is the standard treatment, but treatment tolerance often leads to failure. Cell-in-cell are observed in a variety of tumors and have been shown to correlate with prognosis. Therefore, it is particularly important to study the prognostic value and regulatory mechanism of intracellular structure-related genes in esophageal cancer.
Methods
TCGA Esophageal Cancer (ESCA) was included in the analysis as the training set. The differentially expressed genes in ESCA samples in the training set were analyzed, and the differentially expressed intercellular-related genes were recorded as CIC-related DEGs. Cox analysis was used to screen prognostic genes. Samples were divided into high-low-risk groups according to the median value of the ESCA sample risk score. Validation was performed in the risk model GSE53624. Morphological mapping, enrichment analysis, immune infiltration analysis, prognostic gene expression verification, molecular docking, and RT-PCR verification were established.
Results
A total of 38 intersection genes were obtained between the disease group and the normal group of ESCA samples. After stepwise multivariate COX analysis, three prognostic genes (AR, CXCL8, EGFR) were selected. The applicability of the risk model was verified in the GSE53624 dataset. The analysis revealed eight significantly different immune-related gene sets. The prognostic gene expression validation found that the prognostic genes reached significant differences between the disease group and the normal group in both datasets. The corresponding proteins of the three prognostic genes all interacted with Gefitinib and osimertinib. The results of PCR confirmed the differential expression of prognostic genes in esophageal cancer tissues.
Conclusions
Three prognostic genes, AR, CXCL8, and EGFR, were obtained in this study, and the molecular docking of prognostic genes with Gefitinib and osimertinib showed that there were interactions between them, which provided a basis for the diagnosis and treatment of ESCA.
Stigmasterol inhibits the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma by modulating the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB signaling pathway
Authors: Yu Chun , Ma Yanhua
Published: June 2024

Purpose
This study employs molecular docking and in vitro experiments to investigate the regulatory mechanism of stigmasterol on the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB signaling pathway in hepatocellular carcinoma.
Methods
Molecular docking with the AutoDock program investigated stigmasterol's binding affinity with TLR4, MyD88, and NF-κB. Its impact on proliferation and migration was assessed via CCK8, wound healing, and Transwell assays, while clonogenicity was determined through clonogenic formation experiments. Apoptosis and cell cycle were examined using flow cytometry. Western blot analysis evaluated TLR4, MyD88, and NF-κB protein expression post-stigmasterol treatment
Results
Molecular docking revealed favorable binding conformations of stigmasterol with TLR4, MyD88, and NF-κB. stigmasterol exhibited inhibitory effects on proliferation, migration, invasion, and clonogenicity of hepatocellular carcinoma cells in vitro. Additionally, it promoted apoptosis, suppressed the cell cycle, and reduced the protein expression of the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB signaling pathway.
Conclusion
stigmasterol suppresses the activity of hepatocellular carcinoma cells by modulating the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB signaling pathway.
Transcriptional analysis of Camellia huana under low-phosphorus-induced stress
Authors: Wu Fan , Xia Lang , Xie Xin , Zhang Yue , Pan Biyin
Published: June 2024

To explore the molecular mechanism underlying the response of Camellia huana to low-phosphorus stress, transcriptome sequencing was carried out, and the genome-wide responses of plants under different durations (0 days, 15 days, and 30 days) of low-phosphorus stress were analyzed. The sequencing results were validated by qRT‒PCR and analyses of related physiological and biochemical parameters. Compared with those in the control group (CK, 0 days), 426/802 and 861/1678 genes were up- and downregulated in the 15 day (15D) and 30 day (30D) groups. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis revealed sugar and energy metabolism, cytomembrane lipid metabolism and hormone metabolism pathways were enriched in most of these differentially expressed genes (DEGs). The expression levels of genes involved in sugar metabolism, except for AGP (ADP pyrophosphorylase) and GBSS (granule-bound starch synthase), generally increased, especially those of β-amylase and SP, indicating that the starch source of Camellia huana under low-phosphorus stress mainly depended on SP-catalyzed G-1-P. The expression of genes involved in the EMP pathway and photosynthesis was generally inhibited. Low-phosphorus-induced stress strongly affected cytomembrane lipid metabolism, resulting in the downregulation of genes involved in phospholipid metabolism and the upregulation of genes involved in sulfur lipid metabolism. Finally, stress induced the expression of genes involved in the ethylene (ETH) synthesis pathway and inhibited the expression of genes involved in auxin, abscisic acid (ABA) and methyl jasmonate (MeJA) synthesis. The qRT‒PCR results were consistent with the transcriptome sequencing results. Physiological and biochemical index analyses revealed that the levels of ATP and soluble sugars decreased gradually, while those of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione S-transferase, catalase (CAT) and plant chlorophyll increased. The levels of ABA and ETH gradually increased, while those of indoleacetic acid (IAA) and MeJA decreased. The physiological and biochemical parameter analysis results were similar to those of RNA-seq and qRT‒PCR. This study investigated the molecular mechanism underlying the response of Camellia huana to low-phosphorus-induced stress and provided a theoretical basis for the subsequent widespread planting of Camellia huana in low-phosphorus soil.
Keywords Camellia huana; Low-phosphorous stress; Transcriptional sequencing; qRT‒PCR; Physiological and biochemical detection
FPGA Implementation of CNN Based DepthEstimation Network: MiDaSNet
Authors: Adiyaman Muhammed Yasin , Baskaya Ismail Faik
Published: June 2024

Real-time depth estimation is crucial in many vision-related tasks, including autonomous driving, 3D reconstruction, and SLAM applications. In recent years, many methods have been proposed to solve depth maps from images by utilizing different modality setups like monocular vision, binocular vision, or sensor fusion. However, for real-time deployment on edge devices, complex methods are not suitable due to latency constraints and the limited computation capacity. For edge implementation, the models should be simple, minimal in size, and also hardware-friendly. Considering these factors, we implemented MiDaSNet, which works on the simplest setup of monocular vision and utilizes hardware-friendly CNN-based architecture, for real-time depth estimation on the edge. Besides, since the model is trained on diverse datasets, it shows stable performance across different mediums. For edge implementation, we quantized the model weights down to an 8-bit fixed-point representation. Then, we deployed the quantized model on an inexpensive FPGA card, Kria KV260, utilizing predefined deep-learning processing units embedded in the programmable logic. The results show that our quantized model achieves 82.6% zero-shot accuracy on the NYUv2 dataset with 50.7 fps inference speed on the card.
Digital engagement and telehealth coaching intervention provides physical and mental health improvements for cancer patients: Results from a PROMIS-10 evaluation
Authors: Lewis Joanne , Wang Shen , Atkins Timothy , Irwin Scott A. , Sangar Davinder , Mackenzie Lynette , Ganesh Raghav Murali
Published: June 2024

Purpose: People with cancer have unmet needs during the acute and survivorship phases of treatment and rehabilitation, which negatively impact both their ability to perform everyday tasks and their quality of life. Cancer Coach by Osara Health™️ addresses the holistic needs of people with cancer through telehealth coaching supported by a mobile application and digital participant engagement platform. This study evaluated the impact of the Cancer Coach by Osara Health™️ on the mental and physical health of people with cancer.
Methods: Telephone surveys administered at the start and completion of the program measured global physical, mental and social health, using the Patient Reported Outcome Measurement Information System 10 - Question Short Form - Global Health (PROMIS-10). Pre- and post-scores were compared using Wilcoxon Signed Rank Tests to assess for significant difference between pre and post PROMIS-10 scores.
Results: There were significant improvements in Global Physical Health, z=-4.966, p=<0.001, with more than a moderate effect size of r=0.37 and Global Mental Health, z=-4.533, p<0.01, with more than a moderate effect size of r=0.34 after the intervention. A significant number of participants improved their mental health scores from ‘good’ to ‘very good’ after the program.
Conclusion: Participants demonstrated significant improvements in physical and mental health after participating in the Cancer Coach by Osara Health™️ intervention.
Implications for Cancer Survivors: Digital engagement interventions for people with cancer, supported by health coaching, can improve emotional and mental health as well as physical well-being.
Design of a gold-nanowire embedded PCF for magnetic field and temperature sensing
Authors: Liu Jiayuan , Dong Jie , Hou Shanglin , Liu Qingmin , Xie Caijian , Wu Gang , Yan Zuyong
Published: June 2024

A photonic crystal fiber (PCF) sensor comprises two sensing channels for magnetic field and temperature measurements is proposed. In order to make the SPR detection of magnetic field and temperature effectively, the two sensing channels of the proposed sensor are embedded with gold nanowires and filled with Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and magnetic fluid (MF), respectively. Additionally, this configuration simplifies the fabrication process and eliminate some problems when plasmonic material is deposited in inner or outer surface of PCF. The performance of the sensor is numerically investigated by the finite element method (FEM). The optimal structural parameters have been determined by analyzing the loss curves and energy of the y-polarized code mode ultimately. Furthermore, the sensitivity is not particularly sensitive to the sizes of the cladding air holes, indicating high fault tolerance. The simulation results reveal the maximum magnetic field sensitivity is 238.4 pm/Oe at the magnetic field of 30–300 Oe, and temperature sensitivity is -1043.6 pm/°C at the temperature of -20-40°C. Given its low fabrication complexity and extensive detection range, this PCF-SPR sensor has potential applications in geological exploration, marine environment monitoring and other fields, especially suitable for detection of magnetic signals in low temperature environment.
Caputo-Fabrizio Fractional Order Epidemiological Model of Tuberculosis Transmission along with Imperfect Vaccination, Exogenous Reinfection and Endogenous Reactivation
Authors: Nandi Tanni Rani , Saha Amit Kumar , Roy Sudharonjon
Published: June 2024

This study has been carried out on the dynamics of tuberculosis (TB) transmission considering vaccination, endogenous re-activation of the dormant infection, and exogenous re-infection. We can comprehend the behavior of TB under the influence of vaccination from this article. The theoretical analysis demonstrates that the disease-free equilibrium point is locally asymptotically stable and the fractional order system is Ulam-Hyers type stable. We compute the vaccination reproduction number (R_v) as well as the basic reproduction number (R_0) using the next-generation matrix (NGM) approach. Our findings indicate that vaccinating a limited segment of the population can effectively eradicate the disease. The Adams–Bashforth 3-step method has been used to obtain the numerical solution of our model. The numerical simulations presented at the end of this study show that vaccination can reduce the number of susceptible and infectious individuals in the population. Moreover, the graphical representations illustrate that the number of infected individuals rises due to both exogenous reinfection and endogenous reactivation.
The natural history of ductal carcinoma in situ: development, validation, and estimated outcomes of the SimDCIS model
Authors: Poelhekken Keris , Dorrius Monique D. , Dibden Amanda , Duffy Stephen W. , Vegt Bert van der , de Bock Geertruida H. , Greuter Marcel J.W.
Published: June 2024

Background: To develop a novel simulation model for ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), fully validate it, and provide new estimates for DCIS in the setting of population-based biennial screening.
Methods: A micro-simulation Markov model for DCIS (SimDCIS) was developed. Input parameters were independently derived from literature and transition parameters were age- and grade-dependent. The model was applied to the Dutch biennial screening program. SimDCIS was internally, cross, and externally validated by comparison of the model output to data from the Netherlands Cancer Registry, a previously published modelling study on the United Kingdom (UK) Frequency Trial, and the UK screening program, respectively. Univariate and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were performed to estimate uncertainty. DCIS regression, progression to invasive breast cancer (IBC), clinical detection, and screen-detection were estimated in the Dutch screening setting.
Results: SimDCIS excellently matched observed data in internal, external, and cross validation. The model was most sensitive to changes in DCIS onset probability, and the maximum variation in the screen-detection rate was 11%. In the Dutch screening setting, DCIS regression, progression to IBC, clinical detection, and screen-detection was estimated at 7% (0-14%), 19% (15-24%), 7% (0-14%), and 63% (58-68%), respectively. Grade distribution was 20% grade 1, 38% grade 2, and 42% grade 3.
Conclusion: SimDCIS provides strong predictive accuracy across validation methods and is particularly sensitive to changes in DCIS onset probability. Most DCIS will be found through screening, of which less than 50% of DCIS will be grade 3, less than 1 in 10 will regress, and only 1 out of 5 DCIS will progress to IBC in the setting of biennial screening.
Prevalence and predictors of hypertension in children and adolescents: Results of National Survey of Iranian Children and Adolescents
Authors: Ahmadi Nastaran , Mirzaei Masoud , Hosseini Seyed Mostafa Seyed , Bafghi Seyed Mahmood Sadr , Askari Maryam , Mehrparvar Amir Houshang
Published: June 2024

Hypertension (HTN) is a silent killer and preventable non-communicable diseases. The aim of this study was to investigating prevalence and predictors of HTN in children and adolescents. This cross sectional study was conducted on 1035 children and adults aged 6 to 18 years old who lived in Yazd in Iran.Data was analyzed using SPSS 20 software, Microsoft excel 2013 and STATA version 14. Chi-square test was used to calculating the prevalence of HTN and binary logistic regression (BLR) was used to modeling. The results of our study showed that; the prevalence of HTN was 17.4% (15.87–20.79) in total participants, 16.9(13.56 ± 20.64) in boys and 17.8(14.75–21.15) in girls. HTN was significantly associated with age 10–14 years (OR = 1.61 (95% CI:1.02–2.55)), age 15–18 years (0.54(0.29–0.99)) diabetes (8.87(1.02–76.66)), LDL (1.89(1.01–3.52)), father education (Grad. Diploma) (2.16 (95% CI:1.06–4.41)) and mother Education (high school Diploma) (0.33(0.17–0.62)). Our study showed that the prevalence of hypertension was high in students 5–6 years old. HTN was significantly associated with age, diabetes, LDL, parental education level.
Motivational factors influencing participation in mass running events: a comparative study of females and males runners with disabilities
Authors: Koper Magdalena , Rozmiarek Mateusz , Poczta Joanna , Malchrowicz-Mośko Ewa , Tasiemski Tomasz
Published: June 2024

Background
While the motivations of individuals without impairments for participating in mass running events are well-documented, there is a lack of current research exploring why people with physical disabilities engage in these events. This study aims to identify the motives for participation among people with physical disabilities, taking into account factors such as sex, age (emerging adults vs. middle-aged adults), time since injury or illness, and type of movement during a mass running events (wheelchair vs. standing).
Methods
In total, 119 runners (51.3% male; mean age of 36 years) completed the Polish version of the Motivations of Marathoners Scale questionnaire. The study was carried out using the diagnostic survey method. Online survey forms were sent to 31 organizations from the Greater Poland region, including sports clubs for individuals with disabilities and runners’ clubs open to both individuals with and without disabilities.
Results
This study uncovered distinct motivational differences based on age and category of runner. For participants aged under 35 compared to those over 35, significant differences were noted in the motives of recognition (Z = − 2.834, p = 0.005) and affiliation (Z = − 2.534, p = 0.011). Similarly, when comparing wheelchair users with standing runners, notable disparities were observed in motives related to weight (Z = − 5.109, p = < 0.001) and personal goal achievement (Z = − 2.613, p = 0.009). There was also a significant positive relationship between the time since injury or illness and five out of nine subscales of the Motivations of Marathoners Scale (i.e. affiliation: r = 0.256, p = 0.007; recognition: r = 0.239, p = 0.011). The study found no correlation between gender and the motivations of people with physical disabilities for participating in mass running events.
Conclusions
When organizing and promoting running events for people with physical disabilities, it is important to consider factors such as the age of runners, time since injury, severity of disability, and mode of mobility. Additionally, it should be noted that no significant differences are found based on gender, indicating that both male and female participants are driven by similar motivations when it comes to participating in these events.
Rapid rise in the global ocean carbon sink determined from atmospheric oxygen observations
Authors: Kozlova Elena , Manning Andrew , Keeling Ralph , Heimann Martin , Tohjima Yasunori , Zaehle Sönke , Watson Andrew
Published: June 2024

The rate of increase of atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) in recent decades is only about half that expected if all anthropogenic emissions had stayed airborne. The “missing” CO2 is absorbed by the oceans and land vegetation1. Of these two sinks for CO2, the ocean sink is considered to be the better constrained2-4. Nevertheless, estimates of ocean uptake, using data products that integrate surface ocean observations5-9, suggest a sink that is larger, and increasing more rapidly since about 2000, than do global ocean models, so that they now disagree substantially1. Here we examine the recent history of the CO2 sinks using atmospheric observations of CO2 and oxygen/nitrogen ratios from globally distributed measurement locations10-12. These provide a robust and independent separation of the ocean and land contributions. This method indicates that the ocean sink increased rapidly through the years 2000-2015, to values consistent with, though generally larger than, the surface-ocean based data products, but inconsistent with models. Since 2015, our results suggest this increase has stalled, but it remains 50% higher than most models predict.
A Two-Dimensional Multibeam Scanning Leakage Antenna Design Based on Amplitude Weighting
Authors: Hou Shunhu , Fang Shengliang , Dong Yaoyao , Tian Jinlong , Wang Yuxin , Xu Zhaojing , Li Jinxuan
Published: June 2024

This article designs a 20*20 beam-scanning leakage antenna square array operating at 32.1 GHz based on the amplitude weighting technique with the holographic antenna principle. We propose the microstrip line antenna cell with etched complementary split ring resonator (CSRR), use the liquid crystal(LC) material to realize the switching of the antenna cell state, and analyze the cell resonance characteristics. By arranging the units in a two-dimensional (2D) periodic manner and using amplitude weighting technology to control the state of each unit, beam scanning of the 2D antenna can be achieved. In the experimental process, we solve the problem of beam center depression due to the phase cancellation of front and back radiating waves, while a Python-HFSS (PH) control coding method is proposed to improve the coding efficiency during the design process. Simulation experiments show that the 2D antenna array can realize single-beam switching with its beam azimuth angle φ from − 36° to 40° and pitch angle θ from − 60° to 38°. After realizing the single-beam scanning, this paper establishes the theoretical system of multibeam scanning of 2D leakage antenna arrays based on amplitude weighting for the first time. After experimental verification, the antenna array can realize its dual/triple beam scanning with beam azimuth φ from − 30° to 30° and pitch angle θ from − 60° to 30°, which indicates that the theoretical system can be well applied to the design and application of 2D beam-scanning leakage antenna arrays.
AHP Celebrity Recommendation Based On Luscher Color Theory: Twitter Use Case
Authors: Tajbakhsh Mir Saman , Solouk Vahid
Published: June 2024

Social Networks are among the emerging services in the current virtual world which are used as a connecting medium between users over the Internet. Users generally connect to social networks to interact with their family members, coworkers, or even for commercial goals. Hence, the key for the success of every social network provider lies on satisfying user interest and thereby, expanding the network. Accordingly, one way to increase users' interest toward a social network is introducing them to other users with the similar characteristics using recommender systems. The current article introduces a recommender system based on AHP method and semantic similarities as well as color psychology between users in an online social network. To evaluate the proposed system, we used 5705 real Twitter celebrity profiles as alternative for recommendation, together with 100 virtual profiles as ordinary users. The experimental results indicate maximum recommendations error rate as low as 12.5.
1H, 13C, and 15N resonance assignments of a the amyloidogenic peptide SEM2(49-107) by NMR spectroscopy
Authors: Troshkina Anastasia , Klochkov Vladimir , Bikmullin Aydar , Klochkova Evelina , Blokhin Dmitriy
Published: June 2024

It has been shown that human seminal fluid is a major factor in enhancing HIV activity. The SEM2(49–107) peptide is a product of cleavage after ejaculation by internal prostheses of the semenogelin 2 protein, expressed in seminal vesicles. It is established that the peptide SEM2(49–107) forms amyloid fibrils, which increase probability of contracting HIV infection. In this nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) study, we present almost complete (86%) resonance distributions for the 1H, 15N and 13C atoms of the backbone and side-chain of the SEM2peptide (49–107) (BioMagResBank accession number 52356). The secondary structure of SEM2(49–107) peptide was estimated by using two approaches, secondary chemical shifts analysis (CSI) and TALOS-N prediction. Analysis of the secondary structure of the SEM2(49–107) peptide using both methods revealed that the peptide contains helical segments at the C-terminal. Also in this work, we used phase-sensitive 2D HSQC 1H-15N experiments measuring longitudinal T1 and transverse T2 NMR relaxation times to report predicted secondary structure and backbone dynamics of the SEM2(49–107) peptide. This resonance assignment will form the basis of future NMR research, contributing to a better understanding of the peptide structure and internal dynamics of molecule.
Development, validation, and cut-off points for a questionnaire to measure Sources of Stress in Veterinary Medicine (SOS-Vetmed)
Authors: Osca A. , Millán L. , Vela L. , Barrado J.
Published: June 2024

Background
Occupational stress is a serious problem in veterinary medicine; however, validated instruments to measure this problem are lacking. The aim of the current study was to address this literature gap by designing and validating a questionnaire and establishing the cut-off points for identifying veterinarians with high and low levels of stress.
Methods
The study involved two sub-studies with two Spanish samples. The first study (N = 30 veterinarians; 66.7% women; 63.33% from small animal clinics) investigated the factors related to the work environment that caused the most stress; the results were analyzed using thematic content analysis. The second study (N = 1082; 70.8% women; 71.4% from small animal clinics) involved designing and validating a questionnaire to measure sources of stress in veterinary medicine, as well as establishing the cut-off points for interpreting the results using receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve analysis.
Results
The first study showed the main sources of stress and allowed items to be defined for the questionnaire. The second study validated the Sources of Stress in Veterinarian Medicine (SOS-VetMed) questionnaire and confirmed five sources of stress with adequate reliability and validity indices: “work overload,” “work–family conflict,” “emotional burden of work,” “organizational factors,” and “emergency problems.” The confirmatory factor analysis verified their structure with χ2(265) = 1967.23, χ 2/degree of freedom = 7.42, comparative fit index = 0.89, and standardized root mean square residual = 0.073. The five subscales of the SOS-VetMed questionnaire were positively correlated with two indicators of distress: “psychological complaints” and “psychosomatic complaints.” The cut-off points indicated that 45.83% and 19.95% of the veterinarians surveyed had high and low levels of stress, respectively.
Conclusions
The results confirmed that the SOS-VetMed questionnaire could be used to determine the stress levels of veterinarians and to design intervention programs to improve their workplace health.
Contamination and Sources of Surface Water in Korba Coal Basin, Chhattisgarh, India
Authors: Patel Khageshwar Singh , Pandey Piyush Kumar , Sahu Bharat Lal , Ramteke Shobhana , Wysocka Irena , Yurdakul Sema , Jhariya Dalchand , Martín-Ramos Pablo , Rahman Mohammad Mahmudur
Published: June 2024

In India, surface water reservoirs are widely harnessed to meet a variety of needs, including domestic, agricultural, and industrial applications. The quality of these resources, particularly in coal mine regions, undergoes substantial deterioration due to the discharge of various wastes (industrial, municipal, and runoff water) and coal ash deposition. The Korba basin, shaped by mining activities, shallow groundwater levels, and the flow of the expansive Hasedo River, features numerous ponds, pit lakes, and canals. A significant health concern in this area is the prevalence of fluorosis disease among the local population. The main aim of this study was to evaluate the water quality of reservoirs, including ponds, pit lakes, canals, and rivers, with a focus on identifying contaminant levels and tracing the sources of chemical species such as carbonate and organic carbons, anions, and metals. During the period from 2012 to 2017, elevated carbon contents (varying from 1010 to 4420 mg·L− 1) markedly contributed to increased total dissolved solids (TDS), with values ranging between 2865 and 5540 mg·L− 1. fluoride (F−), aluminum (Al), iron (Fe), and manganese (Mn) concentrations in all surface water bodies exhibited variations within the ranges of 1.8–4.4, 0.42–1.91, 0.3–1.22, and 1.0–2.1 mg·L− 1, respectively. This study delves into the temporal and seasonal variations, water quality indices, and toxicities associated with the identified contaminants.
Quantifying Water Footprint: A Study on the Academic and Administrative Personel at Konya Technical University
Authors: Mesutoğlu Özgül Çimen
Published: June 2024

This study endeavours to quantify the water footprint of academic and administrative personnel at Konya Technical University. Water footprint assessment, a critical metric for evaluating human impact on water resources, is increasingly recognized as a vital aspect of sustainable resource management. The research involves surveying participants on their water consumption habits, particularly focusing on preferences related to food and sugar intake. Preliminary findings indicate diverse responses in terms of food preference, with a majority favouring low intake. Likewise, the survey reveals varying patterns in sugar and sweets consumption, shedding light on the frequency and extent of such practices. By systematically analysing the water footprint within the university community, this study contributes to a broader understanding of water resource utilization and offers insights for sustainable practices in academic and administrative settings. The study aimed to determine the water footprint of the campus in relation to personal consumption behaviours by asking the questions in the "Water Footprint Network (WFN)" to a total of 476 people at the campus, including both the academic and administrative staff. According to the WFN, the average water footprint of the staff was determined as 1694 m3/year.
Analysis of the Seismic Impact of the Atrium Steel Suspension Bridge System on a Museum
Authors: Zheng Zhitao , Shen Wenbing , Li Sheng , Li Chuang
Published: June 2024

The structure of a large museum is novel, with a zigzag-shaped steel suspension bridge system in the atrium. To study the impact of this system on the overall seismic performance of the museum, ABAQUS software was used to create two 3D models: Model I without the system and Model II with the system. An in-depth analysis was conducted on the time-history response laws of maximum roof displacement, inter-story drift angle, and roof acceleration under frequently and rarely occurring earthquake conditions, providing a comprehensive study of the seismic performance. The study found that the maximum roof displacement and acceleration increased with the floor height in both models. Model II showed an average reduction of over 44.85% in roof displacement response and 35.77% in acceleration response compared to Model I. The inter-story drift angle in both models initially increased and then decreased with floor height, reaching a maximum on the second floor. Model II exhibited an average reduction of over 33.07% in inter-story drift angle compared to Model I. The inter-story shear force decreased with floor height, with an average reduction of over 40.03% in Model II compared to Model I. The results indicate that the suspension bridge system constrains the displacement of the museum's outer frame structure, thereby reducing the overall structural displacement, inter-story drift angle, and significantly enhancing the overall structural stiffness and seismic performance.
Adaptive Hip Exoskeleton Control using Heart Rate Feedback Reduces Oxygen Cost during Ecological Locomotion
Authors: Manzoori Ali Reza , Malatesta Davide , Mortier Alexandre , Garcia Johan , Ijspeert Auke , Bouri Mohamed
Published: June 2024

Despite their potential, exoskeletons have not reached widespread adoption in daily life, partly due to the challenge of seamlessly adapting assistance across various tasks and environments. Task-specific designs, reliance on complex sensing and extensive data-driven training often limit the practicality of the existing control strategies. To address this challenge, we introduce an adaptive control strategy for hip exoskeletons, emphasizing minimal sensing and rapid deployability. Using only insole pressure and heart rate (HR) sensing, the controller modulates assistance across various locomotion tasks. We evaluated this strategy with twelve able-bodied participants in a real-world scenario including level walking, stairs, and inclines. The controller successfully adapted assistance timing and amplitude to different activities. This resulted in effort intensity reductions (measured by oxygen uptake) of up to 12.6\% compared to normal walking, and up to 25.5\% compared to walking with the passive exoskeleton. Cardiodynamic response of HR, although delayed, proved sufficient for adaptation in most tasks, and delay-induced limitations primarily affected brief bouts of abrupt change in intensity. However, we found discernible patterns in HR shortly after the onset of such changes that can be exploited to improve responsiveness. Our findings underscore the potential of HR as a promising measure of user effort intensity, encouraging future research to explore its integration into advanced adaptive algorithms.
Variational Quantum Kolmogorov-Arnold Network
Authors: Wakaura Hikaru , Suksmono Andriyan B.
Published: June 2024

We implemented a quantum version of the Kolmogorov-Arnold Network (KAN) on a quantum circuit. It optimizes the weight of each synaptic connection to enhance the overall performance of the neurons. This approach offers a significant boost in efficiency over traditional neural networks, as it can be optimized more accurately and requires only a few neurons to solve complex problems. The KAN is a multi-layer network, similar to a traditional neural network, with each layer represented as a matrix containing parameters and feedback. This structure is linear and mirrors the form of Variational Quantum Algorithms. Thus, we propose the Variational Quantum Kolmogorov-Arnold Network (VQKAN) as a quantum version of the Kolmogorov-Arnold Network. We demonstrated the optimization of VQKAN for the fitting of the given function in various ways, such as by using ansatzes and comparisons.
Photocatalytic and Adsorption Performance of Averrhoa carambola Leaf mediated AC@ZnO Nanomaterial: A green approach
Authors: B Jebanisha , Devi V N Meena , Ani M
Published: June 2024

Averrhoa carambola L. leaf extract was used in this study to synthesis zinc oxide nanoparticles and activated carbon loaded zinc oxide. The prepared nanomaterial was used as a photocatalytic degradation and biosorbent to remove the cationic dye, Methylene Blue (MB) from aqueous solutions. UV-visible spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and FTIR were used to confirm the formation of zinc oxide nanoparticles and AC@ZnO. The experimental procedure involved a batch adsorption process, wherein several key parameters such as contact time, biosorbent dosage, dye concentration, and pH were systematically varied to investigate their impact on both photocatalytic and adsorption capacities. The MB may bond more successfully in an alkaline pH environment. When tested the Boyd, intra particle diffusion, and pseudo-second order kinetic models accurately represented the adsorption kinetics. The equilibrium data were modelled with the Harkins-Jura, Freundlich, D-R, and Langmuir isotherms. In comparison to ZnO NPs, the AC@ZnO sample has higher photocatalytic activity, as evidenced by the photocatalytic degradation of MB dye and the results. AC@ZnO out performed ZnO in terms of both adsorption and photocatalytic degradation. These findings show the cooperative action of ZnO (photocatalysts) and AC (adsorption) in the synthesis of the AC@ZnO sample. The results provide conclusive proof that AC@ZnONps is an effective material for removing MB dye from waste water.