bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interpolation in Linear Logic and Related Systems
Authors: Fussner Wesley , Santschi Simon
Published: July 2024

We prove that there are continuum-many axiomatic extensions of the full Lambek calculus with exchange that have the deductive interpolation property. Further, we extend this result to both classical and intuitionistic linear logic as well as their multiplicative-additive fragments. None of the logics we exhibit have the Craig interpolation property, but we show that the exhibited extensions of classical and intuitionistic linear logic all enjoy a guarded form of Craig interpolation. We also give continuum-many axiomatic extensions of classical linear logic without the deductive interpolation property.
Data Deduplication Based on Content Locality of Transactions to Enhance Blockchain Scalability
Authors: Yi Chenglong , Liu Jintong , Wan Shenggang , Fang Juntao , Sun Bin , Zhang Liqiang
Published: July 2024

Blockchain is a promising infrastructure for the internet and digital economy, but it has serious scalability problems, that is, long block synchronization time and high storage cost. Conventional coarse-grained data deduplication schemes (block or file level) are proved to be ineffective on improving the scalability of blockchains. Based on comprehensive analysis on typical blockchain workloads, we propose two new locality concepts (economic and argument locality) and a novel fine-grained data deduplication scheme (transaction level) named Alias-Chain. Specifically, Alias-Chain replaces frequently used data, for example, smart contract arguments, with much shorter aliases to reduce the block sizes, which results in both shorter synchronization time and lower storage cost. Furthermore, to solve the potential consistency issue in Alias-Chain, we propose two complementary techniques: one is generating aliases from history blocks with high consistency, and the other is speeding up the generation of aliases via a specific algorithm. Our simulation results show: (1) the average transfer and SC-call transaction (a transaction used to call the smart contracts in the blockchain) sizes can be significantly reduced by up to 11.03% and 79.44% in native Ethereum, and up to 39.29% and 81.84% in Ethereum optimized by state-of-the-art techniques; and (2) the two complementary techniques well address the inconsistency risk with very limited impact on the benefit of Alias-Chain. Prototyping-based experiments are further conducted on a testbed consisting of up to 3200 miners. The results demonstrate the effectiveness and efficiency of Alias-Chain on reducing block synchronization time and storage cost under typical real-world workloads.
Adaptive Cloud VR Gaming Optimized by Gamer QoE Models
Authors: Lee Kuan-Yu , Singla Ashutosh , Cesar Pablo , Hsu Cheng-Hsin
Published: July 2024

Cloud Virtual Reality (VR) gaming offloads computationally-intensive VR games to resourceful data centers. However, ensuring good Quality of Experience (QoE) in cloud VR gaming is inherently challenging as VR gamers demand high visual quality, short response time, and negligible cybersickness. In this article, we study the QoE of cloud VR gaming and build a QoE-optimized system in a few steps. First, we establish a cloud VR gaming testbed capable of emulating various network conditions. Using the testbed, we conduct comprehensive QoE evaluations using a user study to evaluate the influence of diverse factors, such as encoding settings, network conditions, and game genres, on gamer QoE scores. Second, we construct the very first QoE models for cloud VR gaming using our QoE evaluation results. Our QoE models achieve up to 0.93 (

\(\sigma=0.02\)

) in Pearson Linear Correlation Coefficient (PLCC) and 0.92 (

\(\sigma=0.02\)

) in Spearman Rank-Order Correlation Coefficient (SROCC), where

\(\sigma\)

stands for the standard deviation. Last, we leverage our QoE models for dynamically adapting encoding settings in our testbed. Extensive experiments revealed that, compared to the current practice, our adaptive cloud VR gaming system improves: (i) overall quality by 0.87 (

\(\sigma=0.44\)

), (ii) visual quality by 0.61 (

\(\sigma=0.45\)

), and (iii) interaction quality by 1.20 (

\(\sigma=0.48\)

) on average in 5-point Mean Opinion Score (MOS).
AdaGIN: Adaptive Graph Interaction Network for Click-Through Rate Prediction
Authors: Sang Lei , Li Honghao , Zhang Yiwen , Zhang Yi , Yang Yun
Published: July 2024

The goal of click-through rate (CTR) prediction in recommender systems is to effectively work with input features. However, existing CTR prediction models face three main issues. First, many models use a basic approach for feature combinations, leading to noise and reduced accuracy. Second, there is no consideration for the varying importance of features in different interaction orders, affecting model performance. Third, current model architectures struggle to capture different interaction signals from various semantic spaces, leading to sub-optimal performance. To address these issues, we propose the Adaptive Graph Interaction Network (AdaGIN) with the Graph Neural Networks-based Feature Interaction Module (GFIM), the Multi-semantic Feature Interaction Module (MFIM), and the Negative Feedback-based Search (NFS) algorithm. GFIM explicitly aggregates information between features and assesses their importance, while MFIM captures information from different semantic spaces. NFS uses negative feedback to optimize model complexity. Experimental results show AdaGIN outperforms existing models on large-scale public benchmark datasets.
Online and Offline Evaluation in Search Clarification
Authors: Tavakoli Leila , Trippas Johanne R. , Zamani Hamed , Scholer Falk , Sanderson Mark
Published: July 2024

The effectiveness of clarification question models in engaging users within search systems is currently constrained, casting doubt on their overall usefulness. To improve the performance of these models, it is crucial to employ assessment approaches that encompass both real-time feedback from users (online evaluation) and the characteristics of clarification questions evaluated through human assessment (offline evaluation). However, the relationship between online and offline evaluations has been debated in information retrieval. This study aims to investigate how this discordance holds in search clarification. We use user engagement as ground truth and employ several offline labels to investigate to what extent the offline ranked lists of clarification resemble the ideal ranked lists based on online user engagement. Contrary to the current understanding that offline evaluations fall short of supporting online evaluations, we indicate that when identifying the most engaging clarification questions from the user’s perspective, online and offline evaluations correspond with each other. We show that the query length does not influence the relationship between online and offline evaluations, and reducing uncertainty in online evaluation strengthens this relationship. We illustrate that an engaging clarification needs to excel from multiple perspectives, and SERP quality and characteristics of the clarification are equally important. We also investigate if human labels can enhance the performance of Large Language Models (LLMs) and Learning-to-Rank (LTR) models in identifying the most engaging clarification questions from the user’s perspective by incorporating offline evaluations as input features. Our results indicate that LTR models do not perform better than individual offline labels. However, GPT, an LLM, emerges as the standout performer, surpassing all LTR models and offline labels.
The Case for Hybrid Multi-Objective Optimisation in High-Stakes Machine Learning Applications
Authors: Freitas Alex A.
Published: July 2024

Most classification (supervised learning) algorithms optimise a single objective, typically the predictive performance of the learned classification model. However, in high-stake classification applications, involving e.g. decisions about whether or not an individual should undergo a medical surgery, be granted a loan or be hired for a job, often there is a need to optimise multiple objectives, such as the predictive performance, interpretability or fairness of the learned model. In this context, this position paper discusses the pros and cons of two different multi-objective optimisation approaches (the Pareto and the lexicographic approaches), and proposes a conceptual framework for hybrid multi-objective optimisation, combining those two approaches.
Mass Transfer Process by Diffusion of RE(III) (RE=La, Pr) in Eutectic LiCl-KCl Salt
Authors: Wei Hedi , Li Mei , Cai Yixuan , Wang Yabin , Wang Xudong , Lan Xiaohui , Zhang Meng , Liu Rugeng , Han Wei
Published: July 2024

Mass transfer is an important link in the entire electrode process. To investigate mass transfer process by diffusion of trivalent rare Earth ions in molten LiCl-KCl system, the electroreduction mechanism, mass transfer kinetics and diffusion layer thicknesses of RE(III) (RE = La and Pr) were studied by a series of electrochemical methods. It was found that RE(III) underwent one-step reduction reaction with the exchange of 3-electron and reversible processes. The diffusion coefficients (D) of RE(III) and limiting current densities (j

l
) for RE(III)/RE pair were measured at different temperatures and concentrations by cyclic voltammetry and chronoamperometry, respectively. Based on the results of D and j

l
, the diffusion layer thickness (δ) of RE(III) was calculated using the simplified Nernst-Planck formula. Furthermore, the impacts of temperature and concentration on δ were explored. The results indicated that as the temperature declined and ions concentration increased, δ decreased. Meanwhile, the relationships between δ and temperature and concentration were also obtained.
Synergistic Effects in BFO@NiCoS@CNT//AC Nanocomposite for High-Capacity Energy Storage Systems
Authors: Waris Muhammad Hamza , Mumtaz Muhammad Azhar , Afzal Amir Muhammad , Muzaffar Nimra , Mumtaz Sohail , Iqbal Muhammad Waqas , Alqarni Areej S.
Published: July 2024

Here, we synthesized a nanocomposite electrode material for high-performance asymmetric supercapacitor devices (ASCD) made of bismuth ferrite (BFO) nanocomposite and nickel cobalt sulfide with carbon nanotubes (NiCoS@CNT). To fabricate the BFO@NiCoS@CNT nanocomposite, a simple hydrothermal process was used. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, galvanostatic charge/discharge measurements, and cyclic voltammetry were used to evaluate the electrochemical experiments. At a scan speed of 5 mVs−1, the BFO@NiCoS@CNT nanocomposite exhibited a specific capacitance of 2890 Fg−1, surpassing pure BFO@NiCoS. Furthermore, the nanocomposite displayed excellent cyclic stability, retaining around 87.8% of its capacity retention even after 5000 cycles. Another notable property is its energy density (Ed) of 71 Whkg−1 at the power density (Pd) of 2400 Wkg−1. Based on these promising findings, BFO@NiCoS@CNT nanocomposite might be used to fabricate electrodes for high-performance hybrid supercapacitors. Our research indicates that this is the first report of a BFO@NiCoS@CNT nanocomposite used as an asymmetric supercapacitor.
Visualizing filtration: a hands-on model for understanding Starling forces in glomerular filtration rate
Authors: Bowman Derek E. , Lujan Heidi L. , DiCarlo Stephen E.
Published: July 2024

Physical models enhance the understanding of complex physiological concepts. This Illumination introduces a hands-on model using pressurized air and a serological pipette to simulate glomerular filtration rate (GFR), with a ping-pong ball indicating filtration rate. The model demonstrates how Starling forces, glomerular capillary hydrostatic pressure, plasma colloid osmotic pressure, Bowman’s capsule oncotic pressure, and Bowman’s capsule hydrostatic pressure, affect GFR, providing a clear and comprehensive learning experience for students.
Eccentric contraction increases hydrogen peroxide levels and alters gene expression through Nox2 in skeletal muscle of male mice
Authors: Kano Ryotaro , Kusano Tatsuya , Takeda Reo , Shirakawa Hideki , Poole David C. , Kano Yutaka , Hoshino Daisuke
Published: July 2024

This in vivo model successfully characterized the effects of eccentric (ECC) and concentric (CONC) contractions on cytosolic and mitochondrial [H2O2] in mouse skeletal muscle. Compared with CONC, ECC induced higher and more sustained [H2O2]cyto—an effect that was abolished by Nox2 inhibition. ECC-induced [H2O2]cyto elevations were requisite for altered gene expression.
Longitudinal changes in Achilles tendon and triceps surae muscle architecture during a 156-km mountain ultramarathon
Authors: Drigny Joffrey , Remilly Marion , Hingrand Corentin , Mauvieux Benoît
Published: July 2024

Achilles tendon cross-sectional area (AT CSA) demonstrated significant adaptive modifications during a 156 km mountain ultramarathon in trained athletes. Initially, a decrease in AT CSA, especially at higher running speeds, is consecutive to the biomechanical stress on the plantar flexor muscle-tendon unit (MTU). Subsequently, there is a significant increase in AT CSA persisting up to 12 h after the race, which likely corresponds to an adaptive process to limit the compressive and tensile load on the tendon.
Inhibition of muscle sympathetic nerve activity in premenopausal women: responses to sudden sensory stimuli predict responses to mental stress
Authors: Lundblad Linda C. , Eskelin John J. , Karlsson Tomas , Elam Mikael
Published: July 2024

Muscle sympathetic neural responses to sudden sensory stimuli in premenopausal women showed interindividual differences and the distribution of sympathetic responses was similar to that previously found in men. Despite this similarity, the associated differences in transient blood pressure responses seen in men were not found in women. The increased risk of developing hypertension in postmenopausal women warrants an investigation of whether these response patterns are altered after menopause.
Model Forecasting of Hydrogen Yield and Lower Heating Value in Waste Mahua Wood Gasification with Machine Learning
Authors: Paramasivam Prabhu , Alruqi Mansoor , Hanafi H. A. , Sharma P.
Published: July 2024

Biomass is an excellent source of green energy with numerous benefits such as abundant availability, net carbon zero, and renewable nature. However, the conventional methods of biomass combustion are polluting and poor efficiency processes. Biomass gasification overcomes these challenges and provides a sustainable method for the supply of greener fuel in the form of producer gas. The producer gas can be employed as a gaseous fuel in compression ignition engines in dual‐fuel systems. The biomass gasification process is a complex as well as a nonlinear process that is highly dependent on the ambient environment, type of biomass, and biomass composition as well as the gasification medium. This makes the modeling of such systems quite difficult and time‐consuming. Modern machine learning (ML) techniques offer the use of experimental data as a convenient approach to modeling and forecasting such systems. In the present study, two modern and highly efficient ML techniques, random forest (RF) and AdaBoost, were employed for this purpose. The outcomes were employed with results of a baseline method, i.e., linear regression. The RF could forecast the hydrogen yield with R2 as 0.978 during model training and 0.998 during the model test phase. AdaBoost ML was close behind with R2 at 0.948 during model training and 0.842 during the model test phase. The mean squared error was as low as 0.17 and 0.181 during model training and testing, respectively. In the case of the low heating value model, during model testing, the R2 was 0.971 and RF and AdaBoost, respectively, during model training and 0.842 during the model test phase. Both ML techniques provided excellent results compared to linear regression, but RFt was the best among all three.
Potential Neuroprotective Effect of the Endocannabinoid System on Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Urmeneta-Ortíz María Fernanda , Tejeda-Martínez Aldo Rafael , González-Reynoso Orfil , Flores-Soto Mario Eduardo
Published: July 2024

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by alterations in motor capacity resulting from a decrease in the neurotransmitter dopamine due to the selective death of dopaminergic neurons of the nigrostriatal pathway. Unfortunately, conventional pharmacological treatments fail to halt disease progression; therefore, new therapeutic strategies are needed, and currently, some are being investigated. The endocannabinoid system (ECS), highly expressed in the basal ganglia (BG) circuit, undergoes alterations in response to dopaminergic depletion, potentially contributing to motor symptoms and the etiopathogenesis of PD. Substantial evidence supports the neuroprotective role of the ECS through various mechanisms, including anti‐inflammatory, antioxidative, and antiapoptotic effects. Therefore, the ECS emerges as a promising target for PD treatment. This review provides a comprehensive summary of current clinical and preclinical evidence concerning ECS alterations in PD, along with potential pharmacological targets that may exert the protection of dopaminergic neurons.
Beyond Abdominal Pain: Decoding the Mysteries of Nutcracker Syndrome
Authors: Al-Anbagi Usamah , Saad Abdulrahman , Nashwan Abdulqadir J.
Published: July 2024

Nutcracker syndrome (NCS), a rare but impactful vascular condition, emerges from the compression of the left renal vein by adjacent major arteries, leading to a diverse array of symptoms such as hematuria, flank pain, and renal challenges. Highlighting the case of a 30‐year‐old male with an atypical presentation of NCS, this report explores the diagnostic complexities arising from its varied presentations and therapeutic options. It emphasizes the critical role of computed tomography (CT) in unveiling the underlying vascular constriction. Through this lens, the case underscores the necessity of considering NCS in the differential diagnosis of abdominal pain, advocating for a prompt and accurate diagnosis to guide effective management strategies, ranging from conservative approaches to surgical intervention. This stresses the importance of heightened awareness and ongoing research for optimizing patient outcomes in the face of this elusive condition.
Innovative Type II Fuzzy‐Based Voltage–Frequency Controller for Isolated Microgrid Considering Load Shedding and Uncertainties
Authors: Zibandeh Hadi , Ghafouri Alireza , Nouri Tohid
Published: July 2024

Isolated power systems face significant challenges in maintaining stable voltage and frequency, particularly under conditions of high variability and uncertainty in power supply and demand. Existing control methods, such as Type I fuzzy logic and P/F and Q/V droop control, often struggle with precision and response speed, leading to issues such as frequency deviation and voltage instability. To address these challenges, this paper proposes a novel, fast voltage–frequency control (VFC) method specifically designed for isolated power systems. The proposed VFC method leverages battery charging control and consists of two main components: a load shedding unit and an interval type II fuzzy logic system. The load shedding unit plays a critical role in maintaining system stability by strategically disconnecting a portion of flexible loads involved in a demand response program (DRP) for brief periods when system parameters approach critical thresholds. This preemptive approach helps prevent destabilizing fluctuations and maintains operational integrity. In parallel, the interval type II fuzzy logic system significantly enhances the precision of voltage and frequency stabilization, especially in the face of uncertain and dynamic conditions. The control mechanism employs a roulette wheel selection process to choose scenarios based on probability density functions (PDFs), which are then optimized using the modified dynamic parameter bald eagle algorithm (MDP‐BES). This ensures robust performance across a wide range of scenarios. Comprehensive simulations were conducted across 20 scenarios in three sections to validate the effectiveness of the proposed method. Comparative analysis with Type I fuzzy logic control and traditional P/F and Q/V droop control methods demonstrated that the new VFC approach offers superior performance. Notably, it achieves higher accuracy and faster response times, with minimal voltage and frequency ripple during stable system operation. Additionally, the simulations revealed that scheduled load shedding within the system leads to a 15% reduction in frequency deviation and a 10% reduction in voltage deviation, highlighting the significant improvements over existing control strategies.
Higgs Information and NMSSM at the Large Hadron Collider
Authors: Gupta Surabhi , Gupta Sudhir Kumar
Published: July 2024

Information theory has proven to be a worthwhile tool for investigating the implications of the Higgs sector in the Next‐to‐Minimal Supersymmetric Standard Model (NMSSM) using Higgs information at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) assessed through the entropy constructed by means of the branching ratios of decay channels of the Higgs boson. The present article focuses on the parameter space of supersymmetric extension with an extra term of singlet in light of various experimental constraints. Our findings show the most preferred values of m0, m1/2, A0, tanβ, λ, μeff, neutralino lightest supersymmetric particle (LSP) , lighter chargino , singlino , and gluino to be around 1.93 TeV, 1.78 TeV, −3.62 TeV, 27.5, 0.012, 665.7 GeV, 740 GeV, 790 GeV, 11.24 TeV, and 3.70 TeV, respectively, that is compatible with the relic density of dark matter.
CDK9 Inhibition by Dinaciclib Is a Therapeutic Vulnerability in Epithelioid Hemangioendothelioma
Authors: Pobbati Ajaybabu V. , Burtscher Ashley , Rajaram Siva Nandini , Hallett Andrea , Romigh Todd , Che Kepeng , Zhao Bin , Coker Jesse A. , Wang Nancy , Stauffer Shaun R. , Rubin Brian P.
Published: July 2024

Purpose:

There are no effective treatment options for patients with aggressive epithelioid hemangioendothelioma (EHE) driven by the TAZ–CAMTA1 (TC) fusion gene. Here, we aimed to understand the regulation of TC using pharmacologic tools and identify vulnerabilities that can potentially be exploited for the treatment of EHE.

Experimental Design:

TC is a transcriptional coregulator; we hypothesized that compounds that reduce TC nuclear levels, either through translocation of TC to the cytoplasm, or through degradation, would render TC less oncogenic. TC localization was monitored using immunofluorescence in an EHE tumor cell line. Two target-selective libraries were used to identify small molecules that reduce TC localization in the nucleus. The ability of the shortlisted hits to affect cell viability, apoptosis, and tumorigenesis was also evaluated.

Results:

Basal TC remained “immobile” in the nucleus; administration of cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) inhibitors such as CGP60474 and dinaciclib (Dina) mobilized TC. “Mobile” TC shuttled between the nucleus and cytoplasm; however, it was eventually degraded through proteasomes. This dramatically suppressed the levels of TC-regulated transcripts and cell viability, promoted apoptosis, and reduced the area of metastatic lesions in the allograft model of EHE. We specifically identified that the inhibition of CDK9, a transcriptional CDK, destabilizes TC.

Conclusions:

The CDK inhibitor Dina exhibited antitumorigenic properties both in vitro and in vivo in EHE models. Dina has been rigorously tested in clinical trials and displayed an acceptable toxicity profile. Therefore, there is a potential therapeutic window for repurposing Dina for the treatment of EHE.
Machine Learning–Directed Conversion of Glioblastoma Cells to Dendritic Cell–Like Antigen-Presenting Cells as Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Liu Tianyi , Jin Dan , Le Son B. , Chen Dongjiang , Sebastian Mathew , Riva Alberto , Liu Ruixuan , Tran David D.
Published: July 2024

Immunotherapy has limited efficacy in glioblastoma (GBM) due to the blood–brain barrier and the immunosuppressed or “cold” tumor microenvironment (TME) of GBM, which is dominated by immune-inhibitory cells and depleted of CTL and dendritic cells (DC). Here, we report the development and application of a machine learning precision method to identify cell fate determinants (CFD) that specifically reprogram GBM cells into induced antigen-presenting cells with DC-like functions (iDC-APC). In murine GBM models, iDC-APCs acquired DC-like morphology, regulatory gene expression profile, and functions comparable to natural DCs. Among these acquired functions were phagocytosis, direct presentation of endogenous antigens, and cross-presentation of exogenous antigens. The latter endowed the iDC-APCs with the ability to prime naïve CD8+ CTLs, a hallmark DC function critical for antitumor immunity. Intratumor iDC-APCs reduced tumor growth and improved survival only in immunocompetent animals, which coincided with extensive infiltration of CD4+ T cells and activated CD8+ CTLs in the TME. The reactivated TME synergized with an intratumor soluble PD1 decoy immunotherapy and a DC-based GBM vaccine, resulting in robust killing of highly resistant GBM cells by tumor-specific CD8+ CTLs and significantly extended survival. Lastly, we defined a unique CFD combination specifically for the human GBM to iDC-APC conversion of both glioma stem-like cells and non–stem-like cell GBM cells, confirming the clinical utility of a computationally directed, tumor-specific conversion immunotherapy for GBM and potentially other solid tumors.
Figure 6 from N-Myristoytransferase Inhibition Causes Mitochondrial Iron Overload and Parthanatos in TIM17A-Dependent Aggressive Lung Carcinoma
Authors: Geroyska Sofia , Mejia Isabel , Chan Alfred A. , Navarrete Marian , Pandey Vijaya , Kharpatin Samuel , Noguti Juliana , Wang Feng , Srole Daniel , Chou Tsui-Fen , Wohlschlegel James , Nemeth Elizabeta , Damoiseaux Robert , Shackelford David B. , Lee Delphine J. , Díaz Begoña
Published: July 2024

Mitochondria are a key target of NMT inhibition in (KL/K)MUT lung carcinoma cells. A, Ultrastructure of mitochondria from (KL/K)MUT H1792 lung carcinoma cells treated with control or 1 μmol/L DDD85646 (NMTi) for the indicated times. Arrowheads, mitochondria cristae. Bar, 50 nm. B, Volcano plot of mitochondrial membrane-associated proteins whose abundance was altered by NMTi treatment. Blue lines indicate thresholds for a fold-change of two or a P value of 0.05 by moderated t test. C, Diagram of the main mitochondrial import complexes: TOM, in the outer mitochondrial membrane, and TIM23, in the inner mitochondrial membrane (IMM). TIM17A or TIM17B bind TIM23 to form the main TIM23 complex channel in the IMM. D, Kaplan–Meier curve shows percent surviving (overall survival, y-axis) over time (years, x-axis) for TCGA-LUAD (n = 501, n-event = 181). High TIM17A (Red, ≥50th percentile) were compared with low TIM17A (Blue, <50th percentile; log-rank test, P = 0.014, median OS was 3.72 years in TIM17A High vs. 4.93 in TIM17A Low). Colored shading: 95% confidence interval. E, Immunoblotting for TIM17A and TIM17B in samples from (KL/K)MUT H460 cells treated with 1 μmol/L PCLX-001 (NMTi) or vehicle control for the indicated times. Numbers, band intensity normalized to actin control. F, Immunoblotting for HSP60 and TOM20 in samples from (KL/K)MUT H460 cells treated with 1 μmol/L PCLX-001 (NMTi) or vehicle control for the indicated times. Numbers, band intensity normalized to actin.
Evaluation of Ablation Parameters to Predict Irreversible Lesion Size During Pulsed Field Ablation
Authors: Nakagawa Hiroshi , Farshchi-Heydari Salman , Maffre Jennifer , Sharma Tushar , Govari Assaf , Beeckler Christopher T. , Altmann Andres , Ikeda Atsushi , Sugawara Masafumi , Jackman Warren M. , Hussein Ayman A. , Nakhla Shady , Santangeli Pasquale , Saliba Walid I. , Wazni Oussama M.
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND:

During pulsed field ablation (PFA), relationships between ablation parameters (contact force [CF], number of burst pulses, impedance decrease, and electrode temperature) and lesion size in beating hearts have not been well validated.

METHODS:

A 7.5F-catheter with a 3.5-mm ablation electrode and CF sensor (ThermoCool SmartTouch SF-Dual-Energy, Biosense Webster, Inc, Irwindale, CA) was connected to a PFA system (TRUPULSE2, Biosense Webster, Inc). In 11 closed-chest swine, biphasic PFA current was delivered between the ablation electrode and the skin patch at 219 sites in left ventricle and right ventricle using 12, 18, and 24 burst pulses with 4 different levels of CF: (1) low (n=57; CF, 4–15
g
; median, 10
g
); (2) moderate (n=60; CF, 16–30
g
; median, 22.5
g
); (3) high (n=68; CF, 32–65
g
; median, 40
g
); and (4) no electrode contact (n=34), 2 mm away from the endocardium. Swine were euthanized 2 hours after ablation, and lesion size was measured using triphenyl tetrazolium chloride staining.

RESULTS:

All PFA lesions with electrode-myocardium contact were well demarcated with triphenyl tetrazolium chloride staining, demonstrating (1) pale central zone (contraction band necrosis with minimal coagulation necrosis), (2) dark brown zone (contraction band necrosis with hemorrhage), and (3) hyperstained red zone by triphenyl tetrazolium chloride (unaffected normal myocardium with preserved mitochondrial activity, consistent with reversible zone). Lesion depth increased significantly with increasing CF and the number of PFA burst pulses. An exponential/logarithmic formula combined with CF and the number of PFA burst pulses correlated lesion depth with high accuracy: R=0.809,
P
<0.0001, ±1.0-mm accuracy in 128 of 163 (79%) lesions, and ±1.5-mm accuracy in 153 of 163 (94%) lesions. Impedance decrease and electrode temperature were poor predictors of lesion size. There were no detectable lesions resulting from ablation without electrode contact.

CONCLUSIONS:

Acute PFA ventricular lesions demonstrate irreversible and reversible lesion boundaries. Electrode-tissue contact is required for effective lesion formation. Lesion depth increases significantly with increasing CF and PFA burst pulses. A new exponential/logarithmic formula combined with CF and the number of PFA burst pulses correlates lesion depth with high accuracy.
An annotated catalogue of mites and ticks (Acari) in Fiji
Authors: FAN QING-HAI
Published: July 2024

Comprehending the diversity of mites and ticks is essential for gaining insight into micro-arthropod ecosystems, assisting in pest control, and maximizing utilization of beneficial mite resources. To lay a groundwork for future research endeavours, this study was prepared to provide an overview of the research chronicle and conduct an analysis of the diversity of mites and ticks recorded in Fiji. An annotated catalogue was assembled, encompassing data on the taxonomy, host/habitat, and geographical distribution of 251 species and subspecies, across 169 genera, 93 families, and four orders.
Description of a new species of Haemaphysalis Koch, 1844 (Acari: Ixodidae), a parasite of hares and rabbits (Lagomorpha: Leporidae) in Texas, Oklahoma and Colorado (USA), that was misidentified as H. leporispalustris (Packard, 1869) for more than a century
Authors: APANASKEVICH DMITRY A.
Published: July 2024

Haemaphysalis (Gonixodes) mariae n. sp. (Acari: Ixodidae) is described based on males and females that were collected from leporids in the United States (Colorado, Oklahoma and Texas). Adults of this new species are similar to those of H. leporispalustris (Packard, 1869), but can be distinguished from them by the punctation pattern of the conscutum and scutum, length of the lateral grooves, length of the lateral salience of palpal segment II, shape of palpal segment III, shape and length of spur on palpal segment III, and on coxa I, as well as by measurements and their ratios.
Research on Quality Control Method of Surface Temperature Observations for Complex Physical Geography
Authors: Xiong Xiong , Zhongbao Jiang , Hongsheng Tang , Ran An , Yuzhu Liu , Xiaoling Ye
Published: July 2024

This article aims to improve the quality control (QC) of surface daily temperature observations over complex physical geography. A new QC method based on multiverse optimization algorithm, variational mode decomposition, and kernel extreme learning machine (MVO–VMD–KELM) was eomployed to identify potential outliers. For the selected six regions with complex physical geography, the inverse distance weighting (IDW), the spatial regression test (SRT), KELM, and the empirical mode decomposition improved KELM (EMD–KELM) methods were employed to test the proposed method. The results indicate that the MVO–VMD–KELM method outperformed other methods in all the cases. The MVO–VMD–KELM method yielded better mean absolute error (MAE), root-mean-square error (RMSE), index of agreement (IOA), and Nash–Sutcliffe model efficiency coefficient (NSC) values than others via the analysis of evaluation metrics for different cases. The comparison results led to the recommendation that the proposed method is an effective quality control method in identifying the seeded errors for the surface daily temperature observations.
‘. . . You are a Muslim, and our village disapproves of this’: The objections of indigenous minority communities in Israel to women’s employment in the police on grounds of gender, nationality and crime
Authors: Meler Tal , Benjamin Orly
Published: July 2024

We introduce and discuss the concept of community objection against the backdrop of the dominant scholarly tendency to attribute a shared viewpoint to residential communities. The notion of community objection arises from two dimensions of diversification among members of minority residential communities: vision of their relationship with the majority and vision of appropriate sexual behavior. We offer an analysis of the experience of Arab women who are citizens serving in the Israeli Police, who face community objection from members of their communities who endeavor to exert social control by questioning their loyalty and their sexuality. We asked which patterns of community objection are perceived as threatening by Arab policewomen, and how women explain their community’s objection to their employment. We conducted a qualitative study based on semi-structured interviews with 27 Arab policewomen employed by the Israeli Police. Grounded theory was applied, bringing to light gender-based, nationality-based and crime-based community objection. The analysis furthermore revealed that Arab policewomen could hold on to their jobs by rejecting the viewpoints manifested by those three types of objections. In fact, they thwarted the gender-based one as a conservative attempt to stop their work in the area of violence against women; and the nationality-based objection as an often crime-based one in disguise. Their perceptions allowed us to elaborate on previous discussions, underscoring the significance of inner disagreement on minority-majority relations for conceptualizing ‘community’.
Evaluating The Predictive Reliability of Neural Networks in Psychological Research With Random Datasets
Authors: Cheng Yongtian , Petrides K. V.
Published: July 2024

Psychologists are emphasizing the importance of predictive conclusions. Machine learning methods, such as supervised neural networks, have been used in psychological studies as they naturally fit prediction tasks. However, we are concerned about whether neural networks fitted with random datasets (i.e., datasets where there is no relationship between ordinal independent variables and continuous or binary-dependent variables) can provide an acceptable level of predictive performance from a psychologist’s perspective. Through a Monte Carlo simulation study, we found that this kind of erroneous conclusion is not likely to be drawn as long as the sample size is larger than 50 with continuous-dependent variables. However, when the dependent variable is binary, the minimum sample size is 500 when the criteria are balanced accuracy ≥ .6 or balanced accuracy ≥ .65, and the minimum sample size is 200 when the criterion is balanced accuracy ≥ .7 for a decision error less than .05. In the case where area under the curve (AUC) is used as a metric, a sample size of 100, 200, and 500 is necessary when the minimum acceptable performance level is set at AUC ≥ .7, AUC ≥ .65, and AUC ≥ .6, respectively. The results found by this study can be used for sample size planning for psychologists who wish to apply neural networks for a qualitatively reliable conclusion. Further directions and limitations of the study are also discussed.
“For Whom” and “Under What Conditions” Is MSBI Effective? A Conceptual Replication With High School Students With Autism
Authors: Cox Sarah K. , Root Jenny R. , McConomy Addie , Davis Kathryn
Published: July 2024

Replications provide credibility by demonstrating under what conditions experimental findings can be repeated, the premise behind evidence-based practices. Replications in single-case research also investigate generalization of findings across groups. For groups with high variability, such as individuals with autism, assumptions of generalizability should be based on learners who are similar in critical ways. The purpose of this study was to use Coyne et al.'s framework for replication and the next generation guidelines for single-case research to extend understanding of “for whom” and “under what conditions” modified schema-based instruction (an established evidence-based practice for individuals with autism) is effective. In this distal conceptual replication of Root et al., contextual and instructional variables of theoretical and practical importance were intentionally manipulated or maintained and reported to model transparency and support replicability. Four high school students receiving special education under the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act category of autism were taught mathematical and social problem-solving behaviors within the context of percentage-of-change word problems. Researchers used modified schema-based instruction and augmented reality in a one-on-one setting and assessed generalization to purchasing in the food court of a mall biweekly. We frame our discussion around the recommendations for replication research from Coyne et al. and recommendations for single-case research from Ledford et al., concluding with suggestions for future replications that use single-case research designs.
How culture affects the way in which psychopathologies manifest in behavior: The case of Confucianism in China
Authors: Colzato Lorenza , Zhang Liang , Zhang Wenxin , Beste Christian , Hommel Bernhard , Roessner Veit
Published: July 2024

Background:

Internalizing disorders in children and adolescents are about as frequent as externalizing disorders in the US, but three times more prevalent than externalizing disorders in China.

Aims:

To examine why and how mental predispositions and stress lead to psychopathology in general and manifest as internalizing or externalizing problems in particular, and which role intercultural differences may play in understanding this.

Method:

A review of the literature.

Results/conclusions:

The interplay of personal freedom and societal duties in an individual’s development crucially influences whether psychopathologies appear as externalizing or internalizing issues. Eastern and especially Chinese cultures have long favored societal obligations over individual autonomy, guided by Confucian principles, promoting internalization over externalization. Understanding culture’s role in behavior can improve mental healthcare by fostering tailored, culturally informed interventions for children and adolescents.
Resilience, avoidant coping and post-traumatic stress symptoms among female Ukrainian refugees and internally displaced people
Authors: Khailenko Olena , Bacon Alison M
Published: July 2024

Background:

Since the Russian full-scale invasion of Ukraine, over 10 million Ukrainians have been displaced from their homes. This has contributed to an increase in post-traumatic stress (PTS) symptoms in both refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs). Previous research has suggested that refugees may experience higher levels of PTS due to additional stressors inherent in migration to a new country, language barriers and separation from family and social support. PTS symptoms may also be exacerbated by avoidant coping which we proposed would be more prevalent amongst refugees because of the isolating effects of migration-related stressors.

Aims:

The present study aimed to investigate the relationship between PTS symptoms, resilience and avoidant coping in refugees and IDPs. We predicted that refugees would report higher levels of PTS symptoms and use of avoidant coping strategies, and that avoidant coping would mediate the effect of resilience on PTS symptoms. We tested a moderated mediation model to examine whether this effect differed between IDPs and refugees.

Methods:

A total of 229 women (108 IDPs and 121 refugees), who were displaced after the full-scale invasion, were recruited using online platforms and volunteering centres. They completed an online questionnaire comprising measures of PTS, resilience and coping.

Results:

We found no significant differences in resilience, PTS symptoms or reported use of avoidance coping strategies between refugees and IDPs. As expected, avoidance coping mediated the negative association between resilience and PTS symptoms, but no group differences in this effect were observed.

Conclusions:

Contrary to previous research, our findings indicate that PTS symptoms may be similarly problematic for refugees and IDPs. This may be due to increased time since the invasion as many refugees may have had time to adjust. Use of avoidant coping strategies may exacerbate PTS symptoms and our study highlights the need for mental health interventions aimed at reducing PTS symptoms in Ukrainian IDPs and refugees through fostering resilience and adaptive coping strategies.
Board gender diversity in municipally owned corporations: A resource dependence perspective
Authors: Andrews Rhys
Published: July 2024

The increasing use of municipally owned corporations (MOCs) to provide vital public services has drawn attention to the representation of women on MOC boards of directors. Resource dependency theory suggests that board composition is likely to be shaped by linkages to critical resources within an organization's environment. This paper presents an analysis of the organizational determinants of board gender diversity in 802 MOCs in England and Wales for the period 2009–2019. The findings suggest that public ownership, nonprofit legal form, board size and a human services focus are positively related to board gender diversity, but that inter-municipal ownership and a technical services focus are all negatively related to such diversity. The findings highlight the impact that organizational characteristics associated with critical resource dependencies can have on gender equality (GE) in corporatized public services.

Points for practitioners

Evidence on the determinants of gender board diversity in MOCs can help policy-makers to understand the role that organizational characteristics play in shaping GE within corporatized public services. This paper highlights that the ownership structure, board size and legal form of MOCs all affect the prevalence of women directors on MOC boards. It is also important to recognize how service area can influence GE on MOC boards.
The Race-Gender-Equity-Leadership Matrix: Intersectionality and Its Application in Higher Education Literature
Authors: Johnson Natasha N. , Johnson Thaddeus L.
Published: July 2024

Intersectionality is a proven theoretical framework, offering a lens to explore how multiple identities and interlocking systems of power influence equity for historically underserved groups. This paper, with its unique focus on Black/African American women as a unilateral demographic, applies the multi-level intersectionality model to elucidate how race and gender converge to impact the educational and leadership experiences of Black/African Diasporan women. By illustrating the model’s utility in research, policy, and practice, it not only sheds light on how systems of privilege shape opportunities and (in)equities for underrepresented groups, particularly within the context of higher education and leadership, but also provides actionable insights that empower policymakers and practitioners to make a difference. Framed within the context of higher education in the United States, this research underscores the need for more attention to race-gender diversity in higher education, as education and leadership are, in many ways, a manifestation of attainment and self-actualization. These insights can guide the development of effective policies and practices that promote equity and diversity in higher education, offering tangible solutions to the persistent challenges faced by Black/African American women in these spheres.
Metformin exposure and the incidence of lactic acidosis in critically ill patients with T2DM: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Tong Jingkai , Li Xin , Liu Tong , Liu Ming
Published: July 2024

Objective:

The objective of this study was to investigate the correlation between metformin exposure and the incidence of lactic acidosis in critically ill patients.

Methods:

The patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) were included from Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care IV database (MIMIC-IV). The primary outcome was the incidence of lactic acidosis. The secondary outcomes were lactate level and in-hospital mortality. Propensity score matching (PSM) method was adopted to reduce bias of the confounders. The multivariate logistic regression was used to explore the correlation between metformin exposure and the incidence of lactic acidosis. Subgroup analysis and sensitivity analysis were used to test the stability of the conclusion.

Results:

We included 4939 patients. There were 2070 patients in the metformin group, and 2869 patients in the nonmetformin group. The frequency of lactic acidosis was 5.7% (118/2070) in the metformin group and it was 4.3% (122/2869) in the nonmetformin group. There was a statistically significant difference between the two groups ( P < 0.05). The lactate level in the metformin group was higher than in the nonmetformin group (2.78 ± 2.23 vs. 2.45 ± 2.24, P < 0.001). After PSM, the frequency of lactic acidosis (6.3% vs. 3.7%, P < 0.001) and lactate level (2.85 ± 2.38 vs. 2.40 ± 2.14, P < 0.001) were significantly higher in the metformin group compared with the nonmetformin group. In multivariate logistic models, the frequency of lactic acidosis was obviously increased in metformin group, and the adjusted odds ratio ( OR) of metformin exposure was 1.852 ( 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.298–2.643, P < 0.001). The results were consistent with subgroup analysis except for respiratory failure subgroup. Metformin exposure increased lactate level but did not affect the frequency of lactic acidosis in patients of respiratory failure with hypercapnia. However, the in-hospital mortality between metformin and nonmetformin group had no obvious difference ( P = 0.215). In sensitivity analysis, metformin exposure showed similar effect as the original cohort.

Conclusions:

In critically ill patients with T2DM, metformin exposure elevated the incidence of lactic acidosis except for patients of respiratory failure with hypercapnia, but did not affect the in-hospital mortality.