bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tighter Constraints of Multi-Qubit Entanglement in Terms of Nonconvex Entanglement Measures LCREN and LCRENoA
Authors: Shen Zhongxi , Xuan Dongping , Zhou Wen , Wang Zhixi , Fei Shao-Ming
Published: January 2024

The monogamy property of entanglement is an intriguing feature of multipartite quantum entanglement. Most entanglement measures satisfying the monogamy inequality have turned out to be convex. Whether nonconvex entanglement measures obey the monogamy inequalities remains less known at present. As a well-known measure of entanglement, the logarithmic negativity is not convex. We elucidate the constraints of multi-qubit entanglement based on the logarithmic convex-roof extended negativity (LCREN) and the logarithmic convex-roof extended negativity of assistance (LCRENoA). Using the Hamming weight derived from the binary vector associated with the distribution of subsystems, we establish monogamy inequalities for multi-qubit entanglement in terms of the αth-power (α≥4ln2) of LCREN, and polygamy inequalities utilizing the αth-power (0≤α≤2) of LCRENoA. We demonstrate that these inequalities give rise to tighter constraints than the existing ones. Furthermore, our monogamy inequalities are shown to remain valid for the high-dimensional states that violate the CKW monogamy inequality. Detailed examples are presented to illustrate the effectiveness of our results in characterizing the multipartite entanglement distributions.
Deep Individual Active Learning: Safeguarding against Out-of-Distribution Challenges in Neural Networks
Authors: Shayovitz Shachar , Bibas Koby , Feder Meir
Published: January 2024

Active learning (AL) is a paradigm focused on purposefully selecting training data to enhance a model’s performance by minimizing the need for annotated samples. Typically, strategies assume that the training pool shares the same distribution as the test set, which is not always valid in privacy-sensitive applications where annotating user data is challenging. In this study, we operate within an individual setting and leverage an active learning criterion which selects data points for labeling based on minimizing the min-max regret on a small unlabeled test set sample. Our key contribution lies in the development of an efficient algorithm, addressing the challenging computational complexity associated with approximating this criterion for neural networks. Notably, our results show that, especially in the presence of out-of-distribution data, the proposed algorithm substantially reduces the required training set size by up to 15.4%, 11%, and 35.1% for CIFAR10, EMNIST, and MNIST datasets, respectively.
Lightweight Cross-Modal Information Mutual Reinforcement Network for RGB-T Salient Object Detection
Authors: Lv Chengtao , Wan Bin , Zhou Xiaofei , Sun Yaoqi , Zhang Jiyong , Yan Chenggang
Published: January 2024

RGB-T salient object detection (SOD) has made significant progress in recent years. However, most existing works are based on heavy models, which are not applicable to mobile devices. Additionally, there is still room for improvement in the design of cross-modal feature fusion and cross-level feature fusion. To address these issues, we propose a lightweight cross-modal information mutual reinforcement network for RGB-T SOD. Our network consists of a lightweight encoder, the cross-modal information mutual reinforcement (CMIMR) module, and the semantic-information-guided fusion (SIGF) module. To reduce the computational cost and the number of parameters, we employ the lightweight module in both the encoder and decoder. Furthermore, to fuse the complementary information between two-modal features, we design the CMIMR module to enhance the two-modal features. This module effectively refines the two-modal features by absorbing previous-level semantic information and inter-modal complementary information. In addition, to fuse the cross-level feature and detect multiscale salient objects, we design the SIGF module, which effectively suppresses the background noisy information in low-level features and extracts multiscale information. We conduct extensive experiments on three RGB-T datasets, and our method achieves competitive performance compared to the other 15 state-of-the-art methods.
Ensemble Transductive Propagation Network for Semi-Supervised Few-Shot Learning
Authors: Pan Xueling , Li Guohe , Zheng Yifeng
Published: January 2024

Few-shot learning aims to solve the difficulty in obtaining training samples, leading to high variance, high bias, and over-fitting. Recently, graph-based transductive few-shot learning approaches supplement the deficiency of label information via unlabeled data to make a joint prediction, which has become a new research hotspot. Therefore, in this paper, we propose a novel ensemble semi-supervised few-shot learning strategy via transductive network and Dempster–Shafer (D-S) evidence fusion, named ensemble transductive propagation networks (ETPN). First, we present homogeneity and heterogeneity ensemble transductive propagation networks to better use the unlabeled data, which introduce a preset weight coefficient and provide the process of iterative inferences during transductive propagation learning. Then, we combine the information entropy to improve the D-S evidence fusion method, which improves the stability of multi-model results fusion from the pre-processing of the evidence source. Third, we combine the L2 norm to improve an ensemble pruning approach to select individual learners with higher accuracy to participate in the integration of the few-shot model results. Moreover, interference sets are introduced to semi-supervised training to improve the anti-disturbance ability of the mode. Eventually, experiments indicate that the proposed approaches outperform the state-of-the-art few-shot model. The best accuracy of ETPN increases by 0.3% and 0.28% in the 5-way 5-shot, and by 3.43% and 7.6% in the 5-way 1-shot on miniImagNet and tieredImageNet, respectively.
Gifted Students’ Actualization of a Rich Task’s Mathematical Potential When Working in Small Groups
Authors: Simensen Anita Movik , Olsen Mirjam Harkestad
Published: January 2024

This article examines gifted students’ (ages 13–16) groupwork on a rich task in mathematics. This study was conducted in Norway, which has an inclusive education system that does not allow fixed-ability grouping. The purpose of this study was to better understand how to cultivate mathematical learning opportunities for gifted learners in inclusive education systems. The analysis was conducted from a multimodal perspective, in which students’ coordination of speech, gestures, and artifact use was viewed as part of their learning process. The findings contribute to discussions on gifted students as a heterogeneous group. Moreover, our analysis illustrates how giftedness can be invisible, leading to unrealized potential and low achievement. We suggest that more attention be paid to teaching by adapting to gifted students’ individual needs, particularly if the intention is to provide high-quality learning opportunities for gifted students in inclusive settings.
Assessment of the Risk of the Loss of Supply, the Recycling Rate and the Degree of Substitutability of Elements in the NdFeB Magnets of a Small Wind Farm Generator
Authors: Baron Rafał , Kowol Daniel , Matusiak Piotr , Lutyński Marcin , Nowińska Katarzyna
Published: January 2024

Existing shortages on the market of critical and strategic raw materials and problems with the supply chain of selected raw materials, mainly those from China, indicate the need to develop recycling technologies for devices containing the above-mentioned materials. The aim of this work should be to ensure a sustainable supply of raw materials for industry in the EU. One potential source of raw materials may be small-power wind turbine generators equipped with permanent magnets (NdFeB). This research allowed for the development of a methodology for disassembling a generator containing NdFeB magnets in order to determine the shares of individual elements. Due to the significant shares of critical and strategic elements in permanent magnets, a detailed economic analysis was carried out. Based on the research results, economic benefits resulting from the recovery of valuable elements were indicated. The significant market value of critical and strategic raw materials contained in neodymium magnets was demonstrated. The risk of the loss of supplies, the recycling rate and the possibility of replacing the elements in permanent magnets were assessed.
The Effect of the Vertical Layout on Underground Cable Current Carrying Capacity
Authors: Ozyesil Ahmet , Altun Burak , Demirol Yunus Berat , Alboyaci Bora
Published: January 2024

Underground cable installation in historical areas, natural protected areas, narrow streets, or residential areas with high traffic flows is very difficult due to both legal permits and the conditions of the work sites. The trefoil layout requires a smaller channel than the flat layout. However, the trefoil layout carries some risks, such as damage to the cables together in the event of short circuit faults and reduced ampacity in single-side-bonded systems. This study’s scope examines the current carrying capacities and thermal effects of directly buried underground cables in trefoil and vertical layouts using CYMCAP power cable analysis software. A field investigation was also carried out to verify the analysis results. The performance of the recommended method was evaluated by considering current and temperature measurements from the fieldwork and analysis. According to the studied cable design, the current carrying capacities of the cables in flat and vertical layouts are similar and higher than in the trefoil layout. However, it should be taken into consideration that these results will vary depending on a cable system’s design parameters. As a result, this article emphasizes that a vertical layout can be considered as a layout option in certain areas.
Semi-Analytical Reservoir Modeling of Non-Linear Gas Diffusion with Gas Desorption Applied to the Horn River Basin Shale Gas Play, British Columbia (Canada)
Authors: Yuan Wanju , Chen Zhuoheng , Zhao Gang , Su Chang , Kong Bing
Published: January 2024

Adsorbed gas may account for a significant part of the gas resources in shale gas and coalbed methane plays. Understanding gas sorption behaviors and integrating gas desorption into analytical reservoir modeling and an associated transient performance analysis are important for evaluating a system’s gas desorption ability and further analyzing its CO2 injectability, utilization, and storage capacity. However, gas desorption, along with other pressure-dominated gas properties, increases a system’s non-linearity in theoretical studies. Few studies on analytical modeling have integrated the gas desorption feature into a non-linear system and validated the model’s accuracy. In this study, the desorbed gas due to pressure decay was treated as an additional source/sink term in the source-and-sink function methods. This method was combined with the integral image method in a semi-analytical manner to determine the amount of gas desorption. Fundamental reservoir and gas properties from the Horn River Basin shale gas play were chosen to evaluate the methodology and the performance of the associated production well. The results were compared with the commercial fine-gridding numerical simulation software, and good matches were achieved. The results showed that the desorbed gas released from rock will supply free-gas flow when the pressure significantly decreases due to gas production. The production wellbore pressure can be maintained at a higher level, and the production rate was higher than in cases where gas desorption was not considered, depending on the operating conditions.
Influence of Environmental Conditions on the Electrical Parameters of Side Connectors in Glass–Glass Photovoltaic Modules
Authors: Barbusiński Krzysztof , Kwaśnicki Paweł , Gronba-Chyła Anna , Generowicz Agnieszka , Ciuła Józef , Szeląg Bartosz , Fatone Francesco , Makara Agnieszka , Kowalski Zygmunt
Published: January 2024

This work focused on the verification of the electrical parameters and the durability of side connectors installed in glass–glass photovoltaic modules. Ensuring the safe use of photovoltaic modules is achieved, among others, by using electrical connectors connecting the PV cell circuit inside the laminate with an external electric cable. In most of the cases for standard PV modules, the electrical connector in the form of a junction box is attached from the back side of the PV module. The junction box is glued to the module surface with silicone where the busbars were previously brought out of the laminate through specially prepared holes. An alternative method is to place connectors on the edge of the module, laminating part of it. In such a case, the specially prepared “wings” of the connector are tightly and permanently connected using laminating foil, between two glass panes protecting against an electrical breakdown. Additionally, this approach eliminates the process of preparing holes on the back side of the module, which is especially complicated and time-consuming in the case of glass–glass modules. Moreover, side connectors are desirable in BIPV applications because they allow for a more flexible design of installations on façades and walls of buildings. A series of samples were prepared in the form of PV G-G modules with side connectors, which were then subjected to testing the connectors for the influence of environmental conditions. All samples were characterized before and after the effect of environmental conditions according to PN-EN-61215-2 standards. Insulation resistance tests were performed in dry and wet conditions, ensuring full contact of the tested sample with water. For all modules, before being placed in the climatic chamber, the resistance values were far above the minimum value required by the standards, allowing the module to be safely used. For the dry tests, the resistance values were in the range of GΩ, while for the wet tests, the obtained values were in the range of MΩ. In further work, the modules were subjected to environmental influences in accordance with MQT-11, MQT-12, and MQT-13 and then subjected to electrical measurements again. A simulation of the impact of changing climatic conditions on the module test showed that the insulation resistance value is reduced by an order of magnitude for both the dry and wet tests. Additionally, one can observe visual changes where the lamination foil is in contact with the connector. The measurements carried out in this work show the potential of side connectors and their advantage over rear junction boxes, but also the technological challenges that need to be overcome.
Optimizing the View Percentage, Daylight Autonomy, Sunlight Exposure, and Energy Use: Data-Driven-Based Approach for Maximum Space Utilization in Residential Building Stock in Hot Climates
Authors: Kamel Tarek M. , Khalil Amany , Lakousha Mohammed M. , Khalil Randa , Hamdy Mohamed
Published: January 2024

This paper introduces a comprehensive methodology for creating diverse layout generation configurations, aiming to address limitations in existing building optimization studies that rely on simplistic hypothetical buildings. This study’s objective was to achieve an optimal balance between minimizing the energy use intensity (EUI) in kWh/m2, maximizing the views percentages to the outdoor (VPO), achieving spatial daylight autonomy (sDA), and minimizing annual sunlight exposure (ASE). To ensure the accuracy and reliability of the simulation, the research included calibration and validation processes using the Ladybug and Honeybee plugins, integrated into the Grasshopper platform. These processes involved comparing the model’s performance against an existing real-world case. Through more than 1500 iterations, the study extracted three multi-regression equations that enabled the calculation of EUI in kWh/m2. These equations demonstrated the significant influence of the window-to-wall ratio (WWR) and space proportions (SP) on the EUI. By utilizing these multi-regression equations, we were able to fine-tune the design process, pinpoint the optimal configurations, and make informed decisions to minimize energy consumption and enhance the sustainability of residential buildings in hot arid climates. The findings indicated that 61% of the variability in energy consumption can be attributed to changes in the WWR, as highlighted in the first equation. Meanwhile, the second equation suggested that around 27% of the variability in energy consumption can be explained by alterations in space proportions, indicating a moderate correlation. Lastly, the third equation indicated that approximately 89% of the variability in energy consumption was associated with changes in the SP and WWR, pointing to a strong correlation between SP, WWR, and energy consumption. The proposed method is flexible to include new objectives and variables in future applications.
The Influence of the Addition of Cement and Zeolite on the Increase in the Efficiency of Sewage Sludge Dewatering in the Pressure Filtration Process
Authors: Kowalczyk Mariusz
Published: January 2024

The process of removing water from sewage sludge is particularly important due to its high content in the raw sludge. This translates into problems with the transport and storage of sediments. Additionally, high water content reduces the calorific value of the sludge. The methods for selecting the appropriate parameters for sewage sludge conditioning and filtration, based on the experimental data presented in this work, may allow for the optimization of sludge dewatering lines in small and large sewage treatment plants. The optimization of the dewatering process has a significant impact on the environmental and economic benefits, which consequently results in a decrease in the power costs of the devices used, flocculants, and sludge processing, and, above all, it contributes to the reduction in the negative impact on the environment. The use of mineral substances in the preparation of sewage sludge improves the effects of its dewatering in the pressure filtration process, as expressed in the obtained values of the final hydration and process efficiency. The use of polyelectrolytes alone significantly improves the effects of sewage sludge dewatering. In this work, the polyelectrolytes were supported by the addition of cement or zeolite. The conditioning of sewage sludge in combined methods using C-494 polyelectrolyte and minerals made it possible to reduce the compressibility coefficient to the range of 0.24–0.47 and, at the same time, to achieve the best results of sludge dewatering in the filtration process. The lowest hydration of 74.9% was achieved when polyelectrolyte and cement were added to the sludge, and this hydration was 6.5 percentage points lower compared to that of the non-filtered sludge.
Landlord–Tenant Dilemma: How Does the Conflict Affect the Design of Building Energy Systems?
Authors: Kühn Larissa , Fuchs Nico , Braun Lars , Maier Laura , Müller Dirk
Published: January 2024

To achieve climate goals, the European Union needs to increase building renovation rates. In owner-occupied buildings, energy cost savings provide financial incentives for renovation. However, 30% of all Europeans live in rented property, where conflicting stakeholder interests arise. Landlords are responsible for renovation decisions (building envelope and energy system) and the corresponding investments. Tenants face rising rents and only slightly benefit from falling energy costs. The literature calls this conflict the landlord–tenant dilemma. However, publications lack a quantification, leaving gaps in understanding its impact on technology choices and the heat transition. To address this, we incorporate the perspectives of landlords and tenants in a model-based approach for optimized technology choice (mixed-integer linear program). We compare optimal individual technology choices with the total cost optimum (including costs for landlords and tenants) for renovation decisions. Additionally, we examine how changes in the regulatory framework affect the economically driven landlord’s technology choice. Our study reveals that total costs and emissions are up to 60% and 283% higher for landlords deciding for rented houses compared to owner-occupied properties. Current approaches to solve the dilemma partly favor the development of climate-friendly energy systems. However, the renovation of the building envelope and operation costs are mostly disregarded in the decisions of landlords.
Numerical Simulation of the Heat Transfer Inside a Shell and Tube Heat Exchanger Considering Different Variations in the Geometric Parameters of the Design
Authors: Estupiñán-Campos José , Quitiaquez William , Nieto-Londoño César , Quitiaquez Patricio
Published: January 2024

The present study aims to analyze the heat transfer variations in different models of shell and tube heat exchangers considering geometric variations in the baffle angles and in the tube’s profiles. Each baffle configuration and geometric variation in the profiles were tested under different mass flow rates (0.25, 0.5, 0.75, and 1 kg·s−1) in the shell to study the heat transfer improvement. The models were simulated using a CFD simulation software ANSYS Fluent including an experimental geometry which was used to validate the simulation process. The experiment results are in good agreement with the CFD results. The analysis of the results shows that an angle of 60° in the baffles generated the highest heat flow (more than 40 kW) with an inclination to the cold flow inlet and a mixed distribution considering a mass flow rate of 1 kg·s−1 in the shell. In addition, the horizontal elliptic profile achieved a heat flow higher than 29 kW with a mass flow rate of 0.5 kg·s−1 in the shell.
Finite Element Analysis and Validation of Wind Turbine Bearings
Authors: Kim Seung-Woo , Song Jung-Woo , Hong Jun-Pyo , Kim Hyun-Jong , Kang Jong-Hun
Published: January 2024

The present study was conducted to evaluate the analytical precision of finite element analysis models of wind turbine bearings. In the finite element analysis models, balls were modeled as finite element meshes as a solid model or replaced by nonlinear springs as two kinds of spring models. In addition, test bench modeling was performed to calculate the displacement following the application of a turnover moment by means of a global model analysis and to calculate the contact stress by means of a sub-model analysis. The comparison of the results of the finite element analyses with the results of the bearing bench test showed that the analytical precision was 17% in the single-spring model, 9% in the Daidie spring model, and 3% in the finite element mesh ball model, indicating that the finite element mesh ball model exhibited the highest precision.
An Experimental Study on the Effect of Distance and Sheltering Area of a Group of Linearly Arranged Sacrificial Piles on Reducing Local Scour around a Circular Bridge Pier under Clear-Water Conditions
Authors: Guragain Subodh , Tanaka Norio
Published: January 2024

One of the major problems associated with bridge piers is ensuring their safety against local scouring caused by the erosive action of flow. Numerous countermeasures have been developed and tested to solve this problem, among which sacrificial piles are highly recognized due to their high performance, economy, durability, and ease of construction. Several factors affect the performance of sacrificial piles, such as their number, size, degree of submergence, and geometric arrangement parameters. In this study, the performance of a group of linearly arranged cylindrical sacrificial piles in reducing local scour around a circular bridge pier was investigated by varying the number of piles (or sheltering area) and distance between piles and the pier under clear-water conditions. Three values of distance between piles and the pier and three values of sheltering area (or number of piles) were tested. The efficiencies of sacrificial piles in different configurations were presented in terms of the percentage reduction in maximum scour depth at an unprotected pier under the same hydraulic conditions. The results of this experiment show that when linearly arranged sacrificial piles are placed close to the pier (at distance D; D is the pier diameter), an increase in the number of piles (or sheltered area) results in an increased scour depth, and when placed far from the pier (2D and 3D), an increase in the number of piles results in a decrease in scour depth around the pier. In addition, for 40% and 60% sheltering conditions, scour depth increased with an increase in the spacing between piles and the pier, while for 80% sheltering conditions, optimum protection was observed at a distance of 2D. Overall, two piles placed at distance D provided optimum protection with a scour depth reduction of 41.6%, while minimum protection was recorded when the same were placed at a spacing of 3D from the pier (25.5%).
The Potential Use of Near Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS) to Determine the Heavy Metals and the Percentage of Blends in Tea
Authors: Revilla Isabel , Hernández Jiménez Miriam , Martínez-Martín Iván , Valderrama Patricia , Rodríguez-Fernández Marta , Vivar-Quintana Ana M.
Published: January 2024

The following study analyzed the potential of Near Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS) to predict the metal composition (Al, Pb, As, Hg and Cu) of tea and for establishing discriminant models for pure teas (green, red, and black) and their different blends. A total of 322 samples of pure black, red, and green teas and binary blends were analyzed. The results showed that pure red teas had the highest content of As and Pb, green teas were the only ones containing Hg, and black teas showed higher levels of Cu. NIRS allowed to predict the content of Al, Pb, As, Hg, and Cu with ratio performance deviation values > 3 for all of them. Additionally, it was possible to discriminate pure samples from their respective blends with an accuracy of 98.3% in calibration and 92.3% in validation. However, when the samples were discriminated according to the percentage of blending (>95%, 95–85%, 85–75%, or 75–50% of pure tea) 100% of the samples of 10 out of 12 groups were correctly classified in calibration, but only the groups with a level of pure tea of >95% showed 100% of the samples as being correctly classified as to validation.
Approximating Partial Differential Equations with Physics-Informed Legendre Multiwavelets CNN
Authors: Wang Yahong , Wang Wenmin , Yu Cheng , Sun Hongbo , Zhang Ruimin
Published: January 2024

The purpose of this paper is to leverage the advantages of physics-informed neural network (PINN) and convolutional neural network (CNN) by using Legendre multiwavelets (LMWs) as basis functions to approximate partial differential equations (PDEs). We call this method Physics-Informed Legendre Multiwavelets CNN (PiLMWs-CNN), which can continuously approximate a grid-based state representation that can be handled by a CNN. PiLMWs-CNN enable us to train our models using only physics-informed loss functions without any precomputed training data, simultaneously providing fast and continuous solutions that generalize to previously unknown domains. In particular, the LMWs can simultaneously possess compact support, orthogonality, symmetry, high smoothness, and high approximation order. Compared to orthonormal polynomial (OP) bases, the approximation accuracy can be greatly increased and computation costs can be significantly reduced by using LMWs. We applied PiLMWs-CNN to approximate the damped wave equation, the incompressible Navier–Stokes (N-S) equation, and the two-dimensional heat conduction equation. The experimental results show that this method provides more accurate, efficient, and fast convergence with better stability when approximating the solution of PDEs.
Differential Diagnoses and Management Approaches for Gastric Polyposis
Authors: Iwamuro Masaya , Kawano Seiji , Otsuka Motoyuki
Published: January 2024

Multiple gastric polyps are observed in various polyposis syndromes and conditions associated with polypoid lesion development in the stomach. Polyposis syndromes often occur concurrently with specific malignant tumors and can manifest at any point in an individual’s lifespan, thus explaining the diversity in surveillance methods. Furthermore, genetic counseling and surveillance are essential not only for the patients themselves but also for their blood relatives. Therefore, the accurate diagnosis and appropriate surveillance of multiple gastric polyps are crucial for improving patient outcomes. This review aims to provide essential information on such lesions along with representative endoscopic images of familial adenomatous polyposis, Peutz-Jeghers syndrome, Cowden syndrome, Cronkhite-Canada syndrome, juvenile polyposis syndrome, gastric adenocarcinoma and proximal polyposis of the stomach, neuroendocrine tumors in autoimmune gastritis, proton pump inhibitor-related gastric mucosal changes, and multiple submucosal heterotopic glands. We wish for this review to serve as a valuable resource for endoscopists seeking to deepen their comprehension of gastric polyposis.
A New Tool for Probabilistic Assessment of MPS Data Associated with mtDNA Mixtures
Authors: McElhoe Jennifer A , Addesso Alyssa , Young Brian , Holland Mitchell M
Published: January 2024

Mitochondrial (mt) DNA plays an important role in the fields of forensic and clinical genetics, molecular anthropology, and population genetics, with mixture interpretation being of particular interest in medical and forensic genetics. The high copy number, haploid state (only a single haplotype contributed per individual), high mutation rate, and well-known phylogeny of mtDNA, makes it an attractive marker for mixture deconvolution in damaged and low quantity samples of all types. Given the desire to deconvolute mtDNA mixtures, the goals of this study were to (1) create a new software, MixtureAceMT™, to deconvolute mtDNA mixtures by assessing and combining two existing software tools, MixtureAce™ and Mixemt, (2) create a dataset of in-silico MPS mixtures from whole mitogenome haplotypes representing a diverse set of population groups, and consisting of two and three contributors at different dilution ratios, and (3) since amplicon targeted sequencing is desirable, and is a commonly used approach in forensic laboratories, create biological mixture data associated with two amplification kits: PowerSeq™ Whole Genome Mito (Promega™, Madison, WI, USA) and Precision ID mtDNA Whole Genome Panel (Thermo Fisher Scientific by AB™, Waltham, MA, USA) to further validate the software for use in forensic laboratories. MixtureAceMT™ provides a user-friendly interface while reducing confounding features such as NUMTs and noise, reducing traditionally prohibitive processing times. The new software was able to detect the correct contributing haplogroups and closely estimate contributor proportions in sequencing data generated from small amplicons for mixtures with minor contributions of ≥5%. A challenge of mixture deconvolution using small amplicon sequencing is the potential generation of spurious haplogroups resulting from private mutations that differ from Phylotree. MixtureAceMT™ was able to resolve these additional haplogroups by including known haplotype/s in the evaluation. In addition, for some samples, the inclusion of known haplotypes was also able to resolve trace contributors (minor contribution 1–2%), which remain challenging to resolve even with deep sequencing.
Korean Nationwide Exploration of Sarcopenia Prevalence and Risk Factors in Late Middle-Aged Women
Authors: Hwang Jongseok , Park Soonjee
Published: January 2024

This study examined specific clinical risk factors for age-related loss of skeletal muscle mass in late middle-aged women with sarcopenia. This Korean nationwide cross-sectional study analyzed data from 2814 community-dwelling women aged from 50 to 64 years old and screened them for sarcopenia. This study examined various risk factors such as age; height; weight; body mass index; waist circumference; skeletal muscle mass index; systolic and diastolic blood pressure; smoking and drinking habits; fasting glucose levels; triglyceride; and cholesterol levels. Complex sampling analysis was used for the data set. Prevalence of sarcopenia with a weighted prevalence of 13.43% (95% confidence interval: 2.15–15.78). The risk factors for sarcopenia were height, body mass index, waist circumference, skeletal muscle mass index, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, triglyceride level, and total cholesterol level (p < 0.05). Weight, fasting glucose level, drinking status, and smoking status were not significant (p > 0.05). These results are expected to contribute to the existing literature on sarcopenia and identify potential risk factors associated with the development of sarcopenia in late middle-aged females. By acknowledging prevalence and recognized risk factors, healthcare professionals may augment their proficiency in recognizing and discerning potential instances of sarcopenia in female patients.
Improved Evaluation Metrics for Sentence Suggestions in Nursing and Elderly Care Record Applications
Authors: Hamdhana Defry , Kaneko Haru , Victorino John Noel , Inoue Sozo
Published: January 2024

This paper presents a new approach called EmbedHDP, which aims to enhance the evaluation models utilized for assessing sentence suggestions in nursing care record applications. The primary objective is to determine the alignment of the proposed evaluation metric with human evaluators who are caregivers. It is crucial due to the direct relevance of the provided provided to the health or condition of the elderly. The motivation for this proposal arises from challenges observed in previous models. Our analysis examines the mechanisms of current evaluation metrics such as BERTScore, cosine similarity, ROUGE, and BLEU to achieve reliable metrics evaluation. Several limitations were identified. In some cases, BERTScore encountered difficulties in effectively evaluating the nursing care record domain and consistently providing quality assessments of generated sentence suggestions above 60%. Cosine similarity is a widely used method, but it has limitations regarding word order. This can lead to potential misjudgments of semantic differences within similar word sets. Another technique, ROUGE, relies on lexical overlap but tends to ignore semantic accuracy. Additionally, while BLEU is helpful, it may not fully capture semantic coherence in its evaluations. After calculating the correlation coefficient, it was found that EmbedHDP is effective in evaluating nurse care records due to its ability to handle a variety of sentence structures and medical terminology, providing differentiated and contextually relevant assessments. Additionally, this research used a dataset comprising 320 pairs of sentences with correspondingly equivalent lengths. The results revealed that EmbedHDP outperformed other evaluation models, achieving a coefficient score of 61%, followed by cosine similarity, with a score of 59%, and BERTScore, with 58%. This shows the effectiveness of our proposed approach in improving the evaluation of sentence suggestions in nursing care record applications.
The Subcutaneous Administration of Beta-Lactams: A Case Report and Literary Review—To Do Small Things in a Great Way
Authors: Leanza Gabriele Maria , Liguoro Beatrice , Giuliano Simone , Moreal Chiara , Montanari Luca , Angelini Jacopo , Cai Tommaso , Murri Rita , Tascini Carlo
Published: January 2024

The subcutaneous (s.c.) route is a commonly used method for delivering various drugs, although its application in the administration of antibiotics is relatively uncommon. In this case, we report a successful treatment of nosocomial pneumonia using piperacillin/tazobactam via continuous subcutaneous administration. Furthermore, this article provides an overview of the current literature regarding the s.c. administration of beta-lactam antibiotics. Based on our analysis, we identified only 15 studies that described the s.c. use of beta-lactam antibiotics in human subjects. Among these studies, cephalosporins were the most extensively investigated antibiotic class, with 10 available studies. According to the study findings, all three antibiotic classes (cephalosporins, penicillins, and carbapenems) demonstrated a similar pharmacokinetic profile when administered via the subcutaneous route. The subcutaneous route appears to be associated with a lower peak serum concentration (Cmax) but a comparable minimum blood concentration (Cmin) and an extended half-life (t1/2) when compared to conventional routes of antibiotic administration. Further research is necessary to determine whether subcutaneously administered beta-lactam antibiotics in human subjects achieve pharmacodynamic targets and demonstrate clinical efficacy.
Reply to Sergent et al. Comment on “Balwierz et al. Potential Carcinogens in Makeup Cosmetics. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20, 4780”
Authors: Balwierz Radosław , Biernat Paweł , Jasińska-Balwierz Agata , Siodłak Dawid , Kusakiewicz-Dawid Anna , Kurek-Górecka Anna , Olczyk Paweł , Ochędzan-Siodłak Wioletta
Published: January 2024

Comments by Sergent et al. (2023) [...]
Optimizing and Implementing a Community-Based Group Fall Prevention Program: A Mixed Methods Study
Authors: van Gameren Maaike , Voorn Paul B. , Bosmans Judith E. , Visser Bart , Frazer Sanne W. T. , Pijnappels Mirjam , Bossen Daniël
Published: January 2024

Falls and fall-related injuries among older adults are associated with decreased health. Therefore, fall prevention programs (FPPs) are increasingly important. However, the translation of such complex programs into clinical practice lacks insight into factors that influence implementation. Therefore, the aim of this study was to identify how to optimize and further implement a widely used group-based FPP in the Netherlands among participants, therapists and stakeholders using a mixed methods study. FPP participants and therapists filled out a questionnaire about their experiences with the FPP. Moreover, three focus groups were conducted with FPP participants, one with therapists and one with other stakeholders. Data were analysed according to the thematic analysis approach of Braun and Clarke. Overall, 93% of the 104 FPP participants were satisfied with the FPP and 86% (n = 12) of the therapists would recommend the FPP to older adults with balance or mobility difficulties. Moreover, six themes were identified regarding further implementation: (1) recruiting and motivating older adults to participate; (2) structure and content of the program; (3) awareness, confidence and physical effects; (4) training with peers; (5) funding and costs; and (6) long-term continuation. This study resulted in practical recommendations for optimizing and further implementing FPPs in practice.
LeafArea Package: A Tool for Estimating Leaf Area in Andean Fruit Species
Authors: Velasquez-Vasconez Pedro Alexander , Andrade Díaz Danita
Published: January 2024

The LeafArea package is an innovative tool for estimating leaf area in six Andean fruit species, utilizing leaf length and width along with species type for accurate predictions. This research highlights the package’s integration of advanced machine learning algorithms, including GLM, GLMM, Random Forest, and XGBoost, which excels in predictive accuracy. XGBoost’s superior performance is evident in its low prediction errors and high R2 value, showcasing the effectiveness of machine learning in leaf area estimation. The LeafArea package, thus, offers significant contributions to the study of plant growth dynamics, providing researchers with a robust and precise tool for informed decision making in resource allocation and crop management.
Real-Time Digital Twin of Ship Structure Deformation Field Based on the Inverse Finite Element Method
Authors: Wei Pengyu , Li Chuntong , Jiang Ze , Wang Deyu
Published: January 2024

Digital twins, an innovative technology propelled by data and models, play a seminal role in the digital transformation and intelligent upgrade of ships. This study introduces a digital twin methodology for the real-time monitoring of ship structure deformation fields, based on finite discrete strain data, and a visualization tool framework is developed using virtual reality technology. First, the inverse Finite Element Method (iFEM) is employed to derive the deformation field of the ship structure in real time using sensor strain data. Secondly, the deformation field data obtained based on the iFEM algorithm is converted into general visualization data conducive to interpretation within virtual reality (VR) applications. Lastly, a digital twin software tool is built to enable synchronous responses and interactions between the virtual scene and the physical scene, directly superposing particular virtual objects (data acquired by sensors, computer-aided design (CAD) virtual models, and deformation field cloud images) onto the physical scene in real time. The digital twin tool embodies a virtual reality visualization system framework integrating the physical data measurement, reconstruction, analysis, expression, storage, rendering, and interaction of deformation field data. Through practical application, the flexibility, effectiveness, and compatibility of the developed prototype tool are verified. According to the results, the system can enhance the efficiency of scientific communication, model validation, and interdisciplinary sharing during the analysis and evaluation of the mechanical properties of ship structures.
Zinc Starvation Induces Cell Wall Remodeling and Activates the Antioxidant Defense System in Fonsecaea pedrosoi
Authors: Santos Tayná Aparecida de Oliveira , Soares Lucas Weba , Oliveira Lucas Nojosa , Moraes Dayane , Mendes Millena Silva , Soares Célia Maria de Almeida , Bailão Alexandre Melo , Bailão Mirelle Garcia Silva
Published: January 2024

The survival of pathogenic fungi in the host after invasion depends on their ability to obtain nutrients, which include the transition metal zinc. This essential micronutrient is required to maintain the structure and function of various proteins and, therefore, plays a critical role in various biological processes. The host’s nutritional immunity limits the availability of zinc to pathogenic fungi mainly by the action of calprotectin, a component of neutrophil extracellular traps. Here we investigated the adaptive responses of Fonsecaea pedrosoi to zinc-limiting conditions. This black fungus is the main etiological agent of chromoblastomycosis, a chronic neglected tropical disease that affects subcutaneous tissues. Following exposure to a zinc-limited environment, F. pedrosoi induces a high-affinity zinc uptake machinery, composed of zinc transporters and the zincophore Pra1. A proteomic approach was used to define proteins regulated by zinc deprivation. Cell wall remodeling, changes in neutral lipids homeostasis, and activation of the antioxidant system were the main strategies for survival in the hostile environment. Furthermore, the downregulation of enzymes required for sulfate assimilation was evident. Together, the adaptive responses allow fungal growth and development and reveals molecules that may be related to fungal persistence in the host.
Identification and Characterization of a Plant Endophytic Fungus Paraphaosphaeria sp. JRF11 and Its Growth-Promoting Effects
Authors: Shan Jie , Peng Fangren , Yu Jinping , Li Qi
Published: January 2024

Endophytic fungi establish mutualistic relationships with host plants and can promote the growth and development of plants. In this study, the endophytic fungus JRF11 was isolated from Carya illinoinensis. Sequence analysis of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region and 18S rRNA gene combined with colonial and conidial morphology identified JRF11 as a Paraphaosphaeria strain. Plant–fungus interaction assays revealed that JRF11 showed significant growth-promoting effects on plants. In particular, JRF11 significantly increased the root biomass and soluble sugar content of plants. Furthermore, transcriptome analysis demonstrated that JRF11 treatment reprogrammed a variety of genes involved in plant mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling and starch and sucrose metabolism pathways through Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis. Our research indicates that beneficial endophytic fungi are able to interact with plants and exhibit outstanding plant growth-promoting activities.
Credit Risk Management and US Bank-Holding Companies: An Empirical Investigation
Authors: Topyan Kudret , Wang Chia-Jane , Boliari Natalia , Elias Carlos
Published: January 2024

This paper empirically evaluates the impact of ownership structure on the cost of credit in US banks. It does so by comparing their grouped option-adjusted credit spreads on the outstanding debt issues. As the overall risk of the creditors is reflected in the yield spread of the firms’ outstanding bonds, separately classifying bank-holding companies and stand-alone banks and controlling risk ratings, maturities, and issue sizes enables us to compare the yield spreads tied to ownership structure. After computing the option-adjusted yield spreads of outstanding operating and holding company bonds, we used these values in a master regression equation to test the statistical and economic significance of the binary variable separating the option-adjusted spreads of the two sets. Our work finds that when the S&P ranks and maturities are controlled, US bank-holding companies finances with higher cost of credit compared with stand-alone banks, although holding companies add a layer of liability protection due to the legal separation between the assets and the owners. This suggests that certain characteristics of US bank-holding companies, such as higher leverage and higher systematic risk levels, make them riskier compared with traditional stand-alone banks, offsetting the benefits of forming a holding company.
Demystifying the Combined Effect of Consistency and Seamlessness on the Omnichannel Customer Experience: A Polynomial Regression Analysis
Authors: Gao Wei , Jiang Ning
Published: January 2024

Although channel consistency and seamlessness have been regarded as two critical factors in conducting omnichannel business, their combined effect has yet to be revealed. By employing a polynomial regression, this study disentangles the combined effect of channel consistency and seamlessness on customer experience in the omnichannel context. The results indicate that enhancing channel consistency and seamlessness simultaneously can improve the omnichannel customer experience. The combined effect of a high (low) level of channel consistency and a low (high) level of channel seamlessness on the omnichannel customer experience is also positive. Data vulnerability can strengthen the combined effect of channel consistency and seamlessness on customer experience in the omnichannel context. This study not only uncovers the complex influences of different combinations of channel consistency and seamlessness but also provides new insights into conducting omnichannel retail for practitioners.