bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparing different Machine Learning Algorithms in a stock Market Scenario to check which one has the highest efficiency
Authors: Dave Jayesh , Porwal Sanket , Jain Utsav , Chandore Garima , Jain Anusha
Published: July 2024

Predicting stock market movements using machine learning algorithms is a challenging yet crucial task in financial markets. This study evaluates the efficacy of different machine learning algorithms in predicting stock market trends, utilizing historical stock price data alongside technical indicators as input variables, including Support Vector Machines (SVM), Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM), and Random Forest. The study extends the prediction horizon to ten and 30 days into the future, aiming to assess the performance of these algorithms over various timeframes. Results indicate that despite the sophistication of the machine learning models, a simple strategy of always predicting a stock price increase outperforms them, aligning with the random walk theory. This finding contributes to the ongoing discussion on the efficacy of predictive algorithms in financial markets. The implications of these results for stock market prediction and the challenges in accurately forecasting stock price movements are discussed. Ultimately, this study offers valuable perspective on the relative effectiveness of machine learning algorithms within the context of the stock market, illuminating the inherent intricacies involved in forecasting fluctuations in stock market.
Periosteum-Bone Inspired Hierarchical Scaffold with Endogenous Piezoelectricity for Neuro-Vascularized Bone Regeneration
Authors: Zhao Yao , Cai Yun-Fan , Wang Wen-Kai , Bai Yong-Kang , Liu Ming-Yi , Wang Yan , Niu Wen , Luo Zhi-Xiao , Xia Ling-Yun , Zhu Juan-Fang , Zhao Fei , Tay Franklin R. , Niu Li-Na
Published: July 2024

The development of scaffolds for repairing critical-sized bone defects heavily relies on establishing a neuro-vascularized network for proper penetration of nerves and blood vessels. Despite significant advancements in using artificial bone-like scaffolds infused with various agents, challenges remain. Natural bone tissue consists of a porous bone matrix surrounded by a neuro-vascularized periosteum, with unique piezoelectric properties essential for bone growth. Drawing inspiration from this assembly, we developed a periosteum-bone-mimicking bilayer scaffold with piezoelectric properties for regeneration of critical-sized bone defects. The periosteum-like layer of this scaffold features a double network hydrogel composed of chelated alginate, gelatin methacrylate, and sintered whitlockite nanoparticles, emulating the viscoelastic and piezoelectric properties of the natural periosteum. The bone-like layer is composed of a porous structure of chitosan and bioactive hydroxyapatite created through a biomineralization process. Unlike conventional bone-like scaffolds, this bioinspired bilayer scaffold significantly enhances osteogenesis, angiogenesis, and neurogenesis combined with low-intensity pulsed ultrasound-assisted piezoelectric stimulation. Such a scheme enhances neuro-vascularized bone regeneration in vivo. The results suggest that the bilayer scaffold could serve as an effective self-powered electrical stimulator to expedite bone regeneration under dynamic physical stimulation.
Effects of nitrification inhibitor and maize straw application on N2O and N2 emissions from two agricultural soils: A 15N tracer study
Authors: Zhao Xinghan , Quan Zhi , Gurmesa Geshere Abdisa , Huang Bin , Yu Haoming , Zhu Feifei , Xun Zhifeng , Liu Chang , Liu Dong , Yang Xiusen , Li Jie , Fang Yunting , Lu Caiyan , Chen Xin
Published: July 2024

Background and Aims: The application of nitrification inhibitor (NI) and crop straw with nitrogen (N) fertilizer is a common practice to increase soil N conservation and crop N use in cropping systems. However, their effects on gaseous N emission from soils are less understood, especially for N2.
Methods: We conducted a 60-day soil incubation experiment to study the effects of NI or maize straw application on N2O and N2 emissions from two typical upland soils, namely a Mollisol and an Inceptisol with contrasting pH values, fertilized with 15N-labeled urea.
Results: During the incubation period, cumulative N2O and N2 emissions for urea-only addition treatment in the Mollisol were 0.5 and 12 mg N kg-1 soil, respectively, while they were 15 and 176 mg N kg-1 soil in the Inceptisol. The co-application of NI (dicyandiamide) decreased cumulative N2O emissions by 66%-72% in both soils and decreased N2 emissions by 81% in the Inceptisol. However, it increased N2 emissions by 15% in Mollisol. The co-application of straw also decreased cumulative N2O emission by 60% in the Mollisol and by 4% in the Inceptisol, but increased N2 emission by 75%-96% in both soils. Interestingly, the increased N2 emissions after straw incorporation were mainly soil-derived rather than fertilizer-derived in either soil.
Conclusions: Our findings reveal that the applications of NI or straw have various impacts on N2O and N2 emissions in different soils, and NI application could be a promising measure to reduce the high gaseous N losses in Inceptisol following N fertilization.
Challenges, merits and demerits of curriculum co-creation in a private sector dental college: An interventional phenomenological study from Pakistan
Authors: Zahra Fatima , Khan Rehan Ahmed Khan , Yasmin Raheela
Published: July 2024

This study explores co-creation practices in a Pakistani dental college to foster quality learner-teacher relationships and promote student empowerment. Co-creation as a model emphasizes shared decision-making and aims to create a more inclusive and equitable learning environment. The study explored the gap in understanding how co-creation can be adapted to the local context of a medical college in Pakistan and explored the challenges, merits, and demerits of this approach and the perceived experiences of teachers and students regarding it. Using a qualitative interventional phenomenological research design, data was collected through interviews and analysed thematically. The results revealed that teachers valued students’ participation and recognized the benefits of co-creation in enhancing student engagement and motivation. However, they faced challenges in balancing creativity with academic rigour and managing time. Students expressed enthusiasm for active involvement in co-creation but experienced hesitancy in expressing opinions in front of faculty members. The study concluded that co-creation has the potential to create a more student-centred and inclusive learning environment, but addressing challenges related to power dynamics, cultural barriers, and time management is essential for successful implementation.
Response Surface Methodology (RSM) Design to Optimize the Cathode of Li-ions Batteries Recycling in Deep Eutectic Solvent and DFT Simulation
Authors: Karimi Saeed , Maftoon-Azad Leila , Behnajady Bahram , Tüzün Burak
Published: July 2024

In this study, the dissolution of a cathode of Li-ion batteries (CLIB) in a deep eutectic solvent (DES) composed of choline chloride (ChCl) and glucose (G) was investigated using the response surface methodology (RSM) experimental design. The temperature ranged from 45 to 105°C, time from 2 to 26 h, agitation from 250 to 850 rpm, and DES/CLIB ratio from 20 to 100 g/g. According to the analysis of variance (ANOVA), temperature had the most significant impact on the dissolution of all elements (Ni, Co, Mn, and Li). In contrast, agitation had no significant effect on metal recoveries. Under optimal conditions, including a temperature of 93°C, a time of 20 h, an agitation of 550 rpm, and a DES/CLIB ratio of 80 g/g, the efficiencies of Ni, Co, Mn, and Li were 85.7%, 90.1%, 89.6%, and 93.2%, respectively, which matched well with the modeling results. This paper presents a comprehensive DFT investigation at the B3LYP/6-31G(d) level of theory on the behavior of transition metal cations in the presence of ChCl and G. Findings elucidate the preference of specific cations for particular ligands, the stability of complex formations, and the crucial role of ligands in electron transfer processes.
Examining Anxiety and Depression among Undergraduate Nursing Students: A Cross- Sectional Study
Authors: Fariha Tazveen , Uddin Jalal , Flatt Jason D.
Published: July 2024

Background
Mental health is a critical aspect of well-being, especially among undergraduate nursing students. Nursing students face unique stressors that can impact their mental health. This study aimed to determine the of anxiety and depression level among undergraduate nursing students at Chattogram, Bangladesh.
Methods
A cross-sectional study design was employed, and data were collected using an online questionnaire (google form) that included the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Convenience sampling was used to select 120 BSc Nursing students aged over 18 years. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 28.
Results
The majority of participants were female (88.3%), and the mean age was 20.58 years, range 18 to 23. The prevalence of anxiety was 66.0%, with 28.0% scoring in the borderline abnormal range and 38.0% in the abnormal range. For depression, 22.4% were in the borderline abnormal range, and 18.4% in the abnormal range. Pearson correlation test showed gender was significantly associated with anxiety (p = 0.004), while no significant associations were found between depression and gender, depression and (academic qualifications, contagious disease status, or close family members' infection status). The logistic regression analysis, revealing that age is significantly associated with depression among nursing students; older students have higher odds of experiencing depression (OR = 1.384, p = 0.037).
Conclusion
This study highlights a significant burden of anxiety among undergraduate nursing students at CINC, with a substantial proportion experiencing abnormal levels of anxiety. The findings underscore the importance of addressing mental health issues among nursing students and implementing strategies to promote their mental well-being.
Nurses' Communication Competence Amidst COVID-19 Epidemic
Authors: Khoramaki Zakieh , Ghahremani Leila , Kaveh Mohammad Hossein , Karimi Masoud , Jamshidi Zahra , Nazari Mahin , Khamisa Natasha
Published: July 2024

Aim
Nurses need a variety of skills, including the ability to communicate effectively, especially in challenging scenarios such as the COVID-19 pandemic. This study was conducted with the aim of evaluating the communication competence of nurses in this crisis. Design: This cross-sectional study is designed to investigate nurses’ communication competence during the COVID-19 pandemic at 16 principal and referral teaching hospitals in Shiraz, Iran.
Methods
Demographic variables and communication competence scale were completed by 1003 nurses with more than two years of experience in the referral teaching hospitals of Shiraz, selected by convenience sampling method. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, independent t-test, ANOVA and Pearson correlation.
Results
The mean score of nurses' communication competence in Covid-19 pandemic was 175.37 ± 17.71 out of a possible score range of 47–235. Participants rated different dimensions of nurse communication in Covid-19 pandemic slightly above the mean value of the answer scale, and the score of social relaxation in Covid-19 pandemic is closer to the mean value of the answer scale than the other dimensions. The results showed that nurses consider factors such as education level, active listening and the use of personal protective equipment to be effective in communication competence during covid-19.
Guar Gum and Ethyl Cellulose Nanoparticles Encapsulating Capecitabine for Targeting of Colorectal Cancer: Formulation and Assessment
Authors: Pasupathy A , Rathore Seema S. , Umadevi S. , Jenita Josephine Leno
Published: July 2024

Currently, most nanotechnology-mediated drug delivery systems are targeted towards cancer therapy. The guar gum and ethyl cellulose nanoparticle-based delivery system developed in this study demonstrates the potential of nanotechnology-mediated approaches for the targeted and sustained delivery of capecitabine in managing colorectal cancer. Guar gum and Ethyl cellulose have been selected as polymers to formulate nanoparticles for colon targeting. Different batches of drug-loaded GG-EC nanoparticles were prepared by the emulsion solvent diffusion method. The optimal batch exhibited a particle dimension of 235.6 ± 4.28 nm with a polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.153 and a zeta potential of -23.4 ± 3.12 millivolts. The in vitro drug release pattern demonstrated that the liberation of capecitabine was sustained for 24 hours. The mechanism of drug release from formulated nanoparticles was followed with Non-Fickian mediated with diffusion-controlled. Animal studies determined the targeting efficiency of the ideal formulation. Results indicated that the concentration of capecitabine was higher than the standard drug. The distinctive characteristics of the polymers employed in the nanoparticle formulation facilitate specific drug discharge in the colon, diminishing systemic contact and amplifying remedial effectiveness.
Inverse melting and re-entrant transformations of the vortex lattice in amorphous Re6Zr thin film
Authors: Raychaudhuri Pratap , Duhan Rishabh , Sengupta Subhamita , Jesudasan John , Basistha Somak
Published: July 2024

Melting of a solid is one of the most ubiquitous phenomena observed in nature. Most solids, when heated, melt from a crystalline state to an isotropic liquid at a characteristic temperature. There are however situations where increase in temperature can induce a transition to a more ordered state1. Broadly termed as “inverse melting”, experimental realisations of such situations are rare2,3,4. Here, we report such a phenomenon in the 2-dimensional vortex liquid that forms in a moderately pinned amorphous Re6Zr (a-ReZr) thin film, from direct imaging of the vortex lattice using a scanning tunnelling microscope. At low temperature and magnetic fields, we find that the vortices form a “pinned liquid”, that is characterised by a low mobility of the vortices and vortex density that is spatially inhomogeneous. As the temperature or magnetic field is increased the vortices become more ordered, eventually forming a nearly perfectly ordered vortex lattice. Above this temperature/magnetic field, the ordered vortex lattice melts again into a vortex liquid. This re-entrant transformation from a liquid to solid-like state and then back to a liquid also leaves distinct signature in the magnetotransport properties of the superconductor.
Nano-priming of Phaseolus vulgaris OTI cultivar with cobalt ferrite nanoparticles enhances the mineral composition of progeny seeds
Authors: Perea-Vélez Yazmín Stefani , Carrillo-González Rogelio , González-Chávez Ma. Carmen A. , Vangronsveld Jaco , Tapia-Maruri Daniel , López-Luna Jaime
Published: July 2024

Nano-priming is an emerging application of nanotechnology in agriculture intending to increase crop yield and nutritional quality, while reducing fertilizer applications. This study aimed to investigate the effects of seed priming with citrate-coated CoFe2O4 nanoparticles (NPs) suspensions (10, 20, and 40 mg NPs L− 1) on the life cycle of the Phaseolus vulgaris L. OTI cultivar and evaluate the technology costs. The effect of nano-priming was assessed in the germination, flowering, and harvest stages. Unprimed and hydro-primed seeds were negative and positive controls, respectively. Nano-priming with CoFe2O4 NPs had no effect neither on the germination nor on plant nutrition (in the flowering stage) of OTI beans compared to unprimed and hydro-primed seeds. In contrast, nitrogenase activity (343.3 ± 1.1 µmol h− 1 plant− 1 of C2H4 ) was detected in the plants from the 40 mg kg− 1 nano-primed seeds. The K concentration of progeny seeds from nano-priming with 10, 20, and 40 mg NPs L− 1 increased significantly by 3%, 16%, and 13% compared to the control seeds. The Zn concentration in the seeds from nano-priming with 10 mg NPs L− 1 was 27% higher than in the control and 28% higher than in the hydro-primed seeds. When nano-priming with 40 mg NPs L− 1, the Zn concentration was 5% and 6% higher than the control and hydro-primed seeds. The calculated cost of nano-priming seeds per ha ranged from 121 to 143 USD. In this regard, nano-priming of bean seeds with citrate-coated CoFe2O4 NPs could be a low-cost approach to achieve nutritional security and agricultural sustainability.
Enhancing prediction accuracy and data handling for environmental applications in innovative modeling of underground water level fluctuations based on tree ensembles technique
Authors: Chi Duong Thi Kim , Thiem Do Dac , Quynh Trinh Thi Nhu , Nguyen Thanh Q.
Published: July 2024

This study developed a model to evaluate and predict underground water level fluctuations based on various factors that affect water reserves. The process of calculating input data features was performed to improve forecast quality. The paper emphasizes the automatic handling of missing and noisy data before incorporating them into the training dataset. Subsequently, the Tree Ensembles learning method was applied to construct the underground water level prediction model. The results indicate that the model can accurately predict the trend of changes in water level in water storage areas such as aquifers and lakes. In particular, this method demonstrated flexibility in handling various input variables, including erroneous, missing, and noisy data, without requiring overly complex preprocessing. This opens up the potential for applying underground water level prediction models in real-world scenarios, where data is often highly diverse and complex. In conclusion, this study not only provides an effective method to predict fluctuations in the level of underground water at storage points, but also suggests significant potential for the development of evaluation and prediction models in the environmental field in the future.
Transcriptional reprogramming in the entomopathogenic fungus Metarhizium brunneum and its aphid host Myzus persicae during the switch between saprophytic and parasitic lifestyles
Authors: Reingold Victoria , Faigenboim Adi , Matveev Sabina , Haviv Sabrina , Belausov Eduard , Vilcinskas Andreas , Ment Dana
Published: July 2024

Background
The fungus Metarhizium brunneum has evolved a remarkable ability to switch between different lifestyles. It develops as a saprophyte, an endophyte establishing mutualistic relationships with plants, or a parasite, enabling its use for the control of insect pests such as the aphid Myzus persicae. We tested our hypothesis that switches between lifestyles must be accompanied by fundamental transcriptional reprogramming, reflecting adaptations to different environmental settings.
Results
We combined high throughput RNA sequencing of M. brunneum in vitro and at different stages of pathogenesis to validate the modulation of genes in the fungus and its host during early infection. In agreement with our hypothesis, we observed transcriptional reprogramming in M. brunneum following conidial attachment, germination on the cuticle, and early-stage growth within the host. This involved the upregulation of genes encoding degrading enzymes and gene clusters involved in synthesis of secondary metabolites that act as virulence factors. The transcriptional response of the aphid host included the upregulation of genes potentially involved in antifungal activity, but antifungal peptides were not induced. We also observed the induction of a host flightin gene, which may be involved in wing formation and flight muscle development.
Conclusions
The switch from saprophytic to parasitic development in M. brunneum is accompanied by fundamental transcriptional reprogramming during the early phases of infection. The aphid host responds to fungal infection with its own transcriptional reprogramming, reflecting its inability to express antifungal peptides but featuring the induction of genes involved in winged morphs that may enable offspring to avoid the contaminated environment.
Ternary RGO/PANI/UCNT nanohybrid for high performance electrochemical supercapacitors
Authors: Soleimani Amirhosein , Taleghani Hamidreza Ghafouri , Lashkenari Mohammad Soleimani
Published: July 2024

In this work, Ternary reduced graphene oxide/ polyaniline/unzipped carbon nanotube nanocomposite namely RGO/PANI/UCNT was prepared for supercapacitor applications. To confirm the synthesis of nanocomposites, the prepared materials were examined by different analytical methods such as FT-IR, XRD, FE-SEM and BET. Results shows that exist a porous and layered structure of RGO, and proper distribution of UCNT into nanocomposite with unzipping. Also, RGO/PANI/UCNT have an active surface area of 84.70 m2 g− 1. Electrochemical properties of the nanocomposite were investigated through cyclic voltammetry (CV), galvanostatic charge-discharge (GCD), and impedance spectroscopy (EIS) tests. Results of the GCD test revealed a capacity of 640 F g− 1 at a current density of 1 A g− 1, which is higher than that of other electrodes. Furthermore, the synthesized nanocomposite displays excellent stability by maintaining 85% of its initial capacity after 1000 charge-discharge cycles. The results indicated that unzipping of carbon nanotubes leads to increased surface area and improved conductivity, contributing to the enhanced capacitance. This underscores the pivotal role of UCNT in optimizing the energy storage capacity of the nanocomposite, further affirming its potential as a promising electrode material for advanced energy storage devices.
Enhanced by Visual and Semantic Consistency for Continuous Sign Language Recognition
Authors: Xiong Sije , Zou Chunlong , Yun Juntong , Jiang Du , Huang Li , Liu Ying , Li Gongfa , Xie Yuanmin
Published: July 2024

Camera-based interface enables simple human-computer interaction with intuitive sign language for hearing-impaired users. Sign language, as a visual language, utilizes changes in hand shape, body movements, and facial expressions to collaboratively convey information. Most of the current continuous sign language recognition (CSLR) models focus their attention on the extraction of information from each frame of the image and ignore the dynamically changing characteristics of the signer across multiple frames. The contrasts with the essence of sign language recognition: which aims to learn the most essential feature representations of changes in the hand-controlled part and the non-hand-controlled part, and convert them into language. In this paper, we first use the feature alignment method to explicitly capture the spatial position offset and motion direction information between neighboring frames, direct a dynamic attention mechanism to focus on the subtle change region, enhance visual representation extraction. And we propose a dynamic decoding method based on maximum backtracking probability to decode word-level features and achieve word consistency constraints without increasing computational resources, enhance semantic consistency. We propose a comprehensive CSLR model utilizing a Dynamic Attention Mechanism and Maximum Backtracking Probability Dynamic Decoding (DAM-MCD), enhancing the model's inference capability and robustness. Experiments were conducted on two publicly accessible datasets, PHOENIX14 (Koller et al. Comput Vis Image Underst 141:108–125, 2015), PHOENIX14-T (Camgoz et al., in: Proceedings of the IEEE conference on computer vision and pattern recognition, pp 7784–7793, 2018), demonstrating that the DAM-MCD model achieves higher accuracy compared to methods employing multi-cue input. The results further show that the DAM-MCD model effectively captures sign language motion information in videos. Models will be made public on: https://github.com/smellno/Continuous-Sign-Language-Recognition-.
Co-producing and co-assessing a new service solution for enhancing health and social care integration: a participatory research protocol
Authors: Gheduzzi Eleonora , Savarese Mariarosaria , Mangini Alberto , Mitidieri Silvia , Paleologo Michele , Masella Cristina , Graffigna Guendalina
Published: July 2024

Background This paper describes a study protocol for co-producing and co-assessing a new sustainable and scalable service solution that enhances health and social integration by involving providers and volunteers delivering services for elderly people in the province of Cremona (Italy), where the elderly population will reach 27% in 2023.Methods This upcoming study involves mixed-method participatory research and is structured in three study phases and related objectives. First, it will co-produce a new, accessible and sustainable service solution using an iterative design and management method, Plan-Do-Check-Act by involving professionals and volunteers of a heterogeneous group of health, social and third sector organizations located in the city of Cremona (Italy). Second, the study protocol will co-assess the outcomes of the new service solution using a mixed-method approach for measuring the outcomes on: professionals and volunteers (micro level) and their health, social and third sector organizations (meso level). Third, this study will co-investigate the scalability of the new solution promoting health and social integration in other similar urban areas of the Province of Cremona via the Intervention Scalability Assessment Tool (macro level). The data will be collected through the analysis of official documents, websites, policies and participatory workshops.Discussion This protocol proposes an innovative intervention, a novel participatory approach, and an unexplored scalability assessment tool in the context of health and social care integration. This study aims to support professionals from health and social care service providers and volunteers from third-sector organizations to collaborate and integrate each other’s resources. In doing so, the participatory approach will facilitate the co-creation of an effective response to the need of health and social integration, and the development of trustful relationships between health and social care service providers. Moreover, the adoption of Plan-Do-Check-Act and Intervention Scalability Assessment Tool will ensure the quality, scalability and sustainability of the new service solution in other settings.
A Modified Genetic-Based solution for Power-Aware Placement of Virtual Machines
Authors: Panwar Suraj Singh , Rauthan M. M.S. , Barthwal Varun
Published: July 2024

Cloud computing has developed as a ubiquitous technology for delivering services like storage, computing, etc. via the Internet. With the rising demand by customers for cloud computation and associated services, cloud service providers are developing various approaches that enhance the performance, reliability, and availability of cloud systems. Cloud computing uses virtualization to optimise resource usage and minimise power utilisation in data centers (DC). Efficient virtual machine (VM) placement strategies are crucial, especially when using advanced genetic techniques. This research paper introduces the use of a genetic meta-heuristic approach, named PowerGA, to optimise the integration of virtual machines (VM) onto the least number of physical machines (PMs) in cloud DCs. PowerGA optimises VM deployment in cloud DCs to minimise energy utilisation and Service Level Agreement (SLA) breaches, considering factors such as VM migration, host shutdown, overload count, and active physical machines. Extensive simulations using real workload data showed significant improvements over traditional strategies like PABFD, with PowerGA achieving a 25% reduction in energy consumption (EC), 43% fewer VM migrations, a 58% improvement in SLA violations, and a 72% reduction in host shutdowns over ten days of data from PlanetLab. These results highlight PowerGA's effectiveness in energy management and SLA enhancement, demonstrating the benefits of a meta-heuristic genetic algorithm in optimising VM placement for cloud computing efficiency.
Influence of Helical Spring Diameter on the Mechanical Response of Spiral Reinforcement Columns: A Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Karmaker Rajib , Deb Ujjwal Kumar
Published: July 2024

This research examines the behavior of Spiral Reinforcement Columns (SRCs), an innovative structural system consisting of concrete-filled steel tubes augmented with spiral springs, under diverse loading scenarios. Utilizing Finite Element Analysis (FEA), the study evaluates the impact of varying spiral spring diameters on the SRCs' performance. The findings reveal that springs with an 84 mm diameter significantly improve suspension efficiency over those with diameters of 64 mm and 80 mm. Springs with larger diameters demonstrate enhanced resistance to deformation, diminished bending, and lower stress levels. As a result, SRCs equipped with larger diameter springs exhibit superior stiffness, strength, ductility, and energy absorption capabilities compared to their counterparts with smaller diameters. The outcomes support the potential of SRCs with spiral springs as an effective seismic-resistant structural alternative.
Effects of Yacon (Smallanthus sonchifolius) Syrup on the Glycemic Metabolism, and Intestinal Microbiota of Rats on a High-Fat Diet
Authors: Andrade Bruna Kelly Medeiros , Danziato-Neto Milton Alves , de Oliveira Ariclécio Cunha , de Freitas Paula Alexandre , Melo Vânia Maria Maciel , Quintela Bárbara Cibelle Soares Farias , Oliveira Francisca Andréa Silva , Monteiro-Moreira Ana Cristina Oliveira , Dionísio Ana Paula , Adriano Lia Silveira , Costa Matheus Augusto Ferreira , Almeida Izaak Ferreira , Carioca Antonio Augusto Ferreira
Published: July 2024

High-fat diets adversely affect both glycemic control and the composition of the intestinal microbiota. Yacon syrup, which is rich in fructooligosaccharides (FOS) and antioxidants, offers a promising nutritional solution. This study aimed to investigate the impact of Yacon syrup consumption on the intestinal microbiota profile, body weight, food consumption, and glycemic control in rats exposed to a high-fat diet (HFD). Our experimental design involved placing the animals into four distinct groups:1. Rats maintained on a standard diet throughout the experimental protocol, 2. Rats consistently fed a high-fat diet, 3. Rats exposed to an initial phase of HFD followed by HFD supplemented with 1% FOS in the second phase, and 4. Rats following a similar two-phase HFD regimen but with 2% FOS supplementation. We carefully monitored dietary intake and conducted glucose tolerance tests. After the treatment, we performed a 16S rRNA gene analysis of the intestinal microbiota. Our findings revealed a notable increase in the glycemic peak within the first 15 minutes of high-fat consumption when compared to the supplemented groups. Further, we observed a significant increase in specific pathogenic phyla (notably Proteobacteria and Firmicutes) in the group with rats consistently consuming a high-fat diet. There were no statistically significant differences in food intake between the experimental groups. The administration of Yacon syrup effectively mitigated the adverse effects of the high-fat diet on glycemic control and the composition of the intestinal microbiota. This underscores the prebiotic potential of Yacon syrup and its promise as a valuable dietary intervention in the context of high-fat diets.
Glomerulonephritis associated with Takayasu arteritis
Authors: Kardaş Rıza Can , Yıldırım Derya , Kaya Burcugül , Vasi İbrahim , Duran Rahime , Erden Abdulsamet , Küçük Hamit , Göker Berna , Öztürk M. Akif
Published: July 2024

Purpose: Takayasu arteritis (TAK) is a large vessel granulomatous vasculitis usually seen before 50 years of age. While TAK may involve renal artery and its branches, its association with glomerulonephritis is rare. Main objective of this study is to introduce three new cases of TAK-associated glomerulonephritis with a review of literature.
Methods: TAK cases followed in Gazi University rheumatology clinic were retrospectively analyzed using chart review. Cases associated with glomerulonephritis were selected. Demographic, clinical, laboratory, radiological and pathological data were extracted from patient charts. Literature review was conducted using keywords “Takayasu” and “glomerulonephritis” via PubMed. Cases with patients younger than 16 years of age and potential confounding co-morbidities such as presence of SLE or ANCA positivity were excluded.
Results: Three cases of glomerulonephritis were found among 72 TAK cases (4%). All cases of glomerulonephritis were diagnosed after the diagnosis of TAK. Two of the cases were mesangioproliferative glomerulonephritis and one case was focal segmental glomerulosclerosis.
The literature review identified 28 cases of TAK-associated glomerulonephritis. Median duration of disease was 9 years. Majority of TAK cases were Numano type V or I, with about 22% of cases involving renal artery. Most common type of glomerulonephritis associated with TAK was mesangial glomerulonephritis, followed by membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis.
Conclusions: Glomerulonephritis is rarely associated with TAK. However, it should be considered when evaluating a TAK patient with clinical features indicative of glomerulonephritis, such as new-onset proteinuria that cannot be explained otherwise
Interactions between eagles and semi-domestic reindeer – lessons learned from field surveys and deterrents
Authors: Meiden Aemilius Johannes , López-Peinado Andrés , Sunesson Peter , Emilsson Christian , Singh Navinder J
Published: July 2024

1) Predation by eagles on semi-domesticated reindeer (Rangifer tarandus) is an emerging human wildlife conflict in Fennoscandia. Both the Golden (Aquila chrysaetos) and the White-tailed eagle (Haliaeetus albicilla) are believed by herders to predate on reindeer, however, there is a considerable knowledge gap regarding extent of predation and scavenging by each species, and their distribution and behaviour within the reindeer herding areas. Currently, the compensation for Golden eagle predation to herders is based on the herd size, and reindeer herders claim that the predation levels are much higher than assumed and hence the compensations are insufficient. Lethal and non-lethal methods have been suggested to reduce this conflict with eagles. 2) We developed this pilot project to fill the existing knowledge gaps by investigating the patterns of eagle abundance before, during, and after reindeer calving in a reindeer herding district in northern Sweden, and testing the effect of two potential deterrents (air ventilators and rotating prisms) in diverting eagles away from reindeer calving areas. 3) During the single study period, we made 12, 47, and 17 eagle observations before, during, and after calving respectively. Out of these observations, 34 were of Golden eagles, 33 of White-tailed eagles, and for 9 observations the species could not be confirmed. Eagle abundance increased during calving and decreased again after calving ended. No attacks by eagles on calves were observed. Two dead calves were found, but the cause of death could not be assigned to any eagle species. Most eagle observations were made in the control area, with significantly higher odds of observing eagles in the control area compared to areas with deterrents. 4) We show that the eagle abundance clearly increased during the calving period and declined afterwards, more sub-adults were observed during calving, and both species were present in the area. The extent of predation was difficult to infer using direct observations and deterrents seem to show promise in diverting eagles away from calving grounds. These studies should be replicated to get a general picture of the issue and testing the efficiency of deterrents in diverting eagles away from reindeer across reindeer herding districts.
The Hierarchical Stochastic Block Model for Multiple Networks
Authors: Battiston Marco , Lee Clement
Published: July 2024

In many research fields, there is an increased availability of network data arising as multiple networks. However, most statistical models for network data in the literature are designed for a single network. Among these, the Stochastic Block Model is arguably the most popular model to perform vertex clustering and community detection. We propose the Hierarchical Stochastic Block Model, a generalization of the SBM to the setting of multiple networks. This model uses a Hierarchical Pitman-Yor prior for the block allocation vector of each graph. The proposed model has two main advantages: 1) it allows different networks to share the same latent blocks and the level of sharing is learnt from the data; 2) the number of blocks in each graph and the overall number of blocks are learnt from the data too, hence avoiding complicated model selection procedures. We derive both MCMC and Variational Inference algorithms. The former targets the correct posterior and is tuning-free, while the latter relies on an approximation of the posterior distribution, but is potentially more scalable than MCMC. We apply the HSBM to a co-authorship network and a brain connectomic network, to illustrate how the model is able to capture different levels of block sharing.
Rainfall Projections for the Brazilian Legal Amazon using Recurrent Neural Networks
Authors: Monteiro Luiz Augusto Ferreira , Oliveira-Júnior José Francisco , Nunes Dorisvalder Dias , Mendes David , Gois Givanildo , Sanches Fabio Oliveira , Wollmann Cassio Arthur , Watanabe Michel , Gobo João Paulo Assis
Published: July 2024

Rainfall in the Brazilian Legal Amazon (BLA) is vital for climate and water resource management. This research uses spatial downscaling and validated rainfall data from the National Water and Sanitation Agency (ANA) to ensure accurate rain projections with artificial intelligence. Recurrent Neural Networks (RNN) with Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) were employed to forecast rainfall from 2012 to 2020. The RNN model showed strong alignment with observed patterns, accurately predicting rainfall seasonality. However, median comparisons revealed fair approximations with discrepancies. The Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) ranged from 6.7mm to 11.2mm, and the coefficient of determination (R²) was low in some series. Extensive analyses showed low Wilmott agreement and high Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE), highlighting limitations in projecting anomalies and days without rain. Despite challenges, the study lays a foundation for future advancements in climate modeling and water resource management in the BLA.
A novel deep learning approach for facial emotion recognition: application to detecting emotional responses in elderly individuals with Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Bohi Amine , Boudouri Yassine El , Sfeir Imad
Published: July 2024

Facial expressions play a critical role in human communication by effectively conveying a wide range of emotions. Recent advancements in artificial intelligence and computer vision have made deep neural networks powerful tools for recognizing facial emotions. In a prior study, we introduced EmoNeXt, an innovative deep learning framework for facial expression recognition based on a modified ConvNeXt architecture, incorporating several significant enhancements. Initially, we evaluated its performance on the FER2013 dataset. This paper extends the evaluation of EmoNeXt to additional well-known benchmark datasets, including AffectNet and CK+, to further validate its robustness and generalizability. EmoNeXt integrates enhancements such as Spatial Transformer Networks, which help the model focus on areas of the face rich in expressive features, Squeeze-and-Excitation blocks, which improve the model’s ability to understand dependencies between different channels, and a self-attention regularization term that encourages the model to produce compact and effective feature vectors. Furthermore, this paper presents an extensive ablation study conducted on the three datasets, analyzing and confirming the contribution of each added module of our EmoNeXt model. Finally, we explore EmoNeXt’s application in recognizing emotions in elderly individuals with Alzheimer’s disease, addressing the urgent need for accurate emotion recognition to improve patient care.
Understanding Misinformation Dynamics in Social Networks: The Uninformed-Spreaders-Debunkers (USD)
Authors: Yang Xiujia , Yang Junghwan
Published: July 2024

This research proposes the Uninformed-Spreaders-Debunkers (USD) model, an innovative adaptation of the classical epidemiological Susceptible-Infected-Recovered (SIR) framework, tailored to examine the spread of misinformation within social networks. The USD model distinguishes individual roles into three categories – uninformed (U), spreaders (S), and debunkers (D) – and combines network features with user characteristics to provide a holistic understanding of the mechanics of misinformation dissemination. We argue that the composition of uninformed, spreaders, and debunkers in the network can affect the patterns of misinformation propagation. To test this idea, this study uses a novel agent-based modeling based on real-world datasets to simulate the intricate propagation pathways of misinformation. The USD model addresses a critical research gap by considering both the networked aspects of social media and the multifaceted user interactions within these platforms. Results suggest that misinformation spreads differently across network types and that debunking styles, the initialized ratio of debunkers, and user interactions significantly affect the reach and control of misinformation in a large social network. These findings provide theoretical and practical insights into designing effective strategies to combat misinformation online.
Computational Study of Precipitation Hardening Process Effects on Mechanical Performance of Al-Zn-Mg Alloy: Molecular Dynamics Simulation
Authors: Sabetvand Roozbeh
Published: July 2024

The precipitation hardening is a heat treatment process used to increase the strength and hardness of certain alloys. The atomic analysis of this procedure can be presented valuable hints in actual applications. In current research, we used molecular dynamics (MD) method to introduce the temperature of precipitation hardening process effects on mechanical performance of Al-Zn-Mg alloy. Our MD research done in 2 main steps. Firstly, the equilibrium phase of modeled alloy reported by temperature and total energy convergence. After equilibrium phase detection, the mechanical properties of samples introduced by structural expansion process. MD results indicated the mechanical performance of Al-Zn-Mg alloy improved appreciably by using precipitation hardening process rather to pure aluminum sample. Furthermore, simulations outputs predicted the 473 K is appropriate temperature in precipitation hardening process of designed alloy. The ultimate strength and Young’s modulus of Al-Zn-Mg alloy increased to 348.98 MPa and 69.46 GPa (respectively) in optimum condition which should be supposed in mechanical applications.
A Novel RSA Attack Leveraging Christoffel and Stern-Brocot Tree Properties
Authors: Krishnamoorthy Abhishek , Thamburaj Robinson
Published: July 2024

This research paper explores the properties of ChristoffelWords, which are formed using a binary alphabet. These words have been extensively studied by Jean Berstel, Christophe Reutenauer, and others, due to their intriguing combinatorial and geometrical characteristics. We have established specific combinatorial properties of the Christoffel and Stern-Brocot trees, which in certain cases can be effectively utilized to compute the modulo multiplicative inverse of a natural number and have also presented a novel algorithm to attack the RSA cryptosystem using this application.
Tunnel wash water in a cold climate: characteristics, ecotoxicological risk, and effect of sedimentation
Authors: Sosalla Nadine , Uhl Wolfgang , Vistnes Hanne , Rathnawe Subhash Srikantha , Vik Eilen Arctander , Meyn Thomas
Published: July 2024

The characterization of tunnel wash water (TWW) from 12 Norwegian tunnels showed very high concentrations of total suspended solids (TSS), metals, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). The particulate matter is dominated by iron, aluminium, manganese, and zinc, where iron and aluminium hydroxides account for about 40% of the TSS. But the concentrations of metals such as copper, zinc, and cadmium cause the TWWs studied to be classified as having poor water quality, using environmental quality standards. Metals in the particulate fraction are removed effectively by sedimentation. However, those responsible for the classification of bad water quality seem to be present to a greater extent in small particles or colloids and are removed to a lesser extent from the particulate fraction. No removal of metals from the dissolved fraction by sedimentation was found. However, PAHs were removed more significantly from the dissolved phase than from the particulate phase. It is evident from the results that PAHs with four to six aromatic rings preferentially adsorb to particles during the sedimentation process, while smaller PAHs, with fewer rings, stay in the dissolved phase. Finally, a closer evaluation of secondary treatment of TWW, regarding effectivity and economic efficiency, is recommended.
FOURNIER'S GANGRENE: A CASE REPORT
Authors: Morozov Serhiy , Matvieienko Mariia , Kozlova Tetiana
Published: July 2024

An increase in the share of patients with purulent-septic processes of soft tissues in surgical hospitals was indicated by statistical and epidemiological data. Currently, it amounts to 28.5%. Over the last decade, the frequency of Fournier's gangrene has increased by 2.2–6.4. This is due to the increase in the number of patients with weakened immunity in the population.
Objective. To study the features of the clinical course, diagnosis and treatment of necrotizing fasciitis with progressive tissue necrosis of the genital organs and perineum based on clinical cases.
Materials and methods. Three clinical cases of rapidly progressive Fournier's gangrene are described, one of which had a fatal outcome.
Results. As a result of complex treatment, which included staged surgical correction, antibacterial therapy, detoxification measures, correction of homeostasis, functions of organs and systems, the condition of patients gradually stabilized: we managed to stop the phenomena of systemic inflammatory reaction, localize the purulent-necrotic process within the affected areas, provide stimulation of reparative processes in the wound. Due to the presence of large tissue defects of the scrotum, two patients underwent surgery. By exposing the testicles and spermatic cords, after cleaning the wounds, the scrotum was reconstructed with the closure of the eviscerated organs with mobilized local tissues, autodermal plastic, secondary sutures for the wound defects of the side wall of the abdomen, inguinal areas, and right thigh. One of the three patients, a 74-year-old man, despite receiving conservative and non-surgical treatment, died on the 9th day as a result of the spread of the purulent-necrotic process and the progression of multiple organ failure.
Conclusion. The presented experience of treatment of Fournier's gangrene demonstrates the importance of timely intensive treatment of this severe infectious process, which is accompanied by the rapid destruction of perineal tissues and the spread of the process beyond the affected anatomical area and the development of sepsis with a high probability of death.