bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Globally asymptotic stability analysis for memristor‐based competitive systems of reaction–diffusion delayed neural networks
Authors: Gholami Yousef
Published: June 2023

The main aim of this investigation is to present a mathematical criterion that guarantees the global asymptotic stability of special class of nonlinear neural systems. Indeed, a memristor‐based competitive nonlinear reaction–diffusion Cohen–Grossberg neural network system is chosen to be investigated. Chasing the accuracy and comprehensiveness, our model has to be improved with the following elements: neutrality of the nonlinear part and being effected under time delays in the both of straight and neutral parts of the nonlinearity. Since the proposed neural network is novel, so we need to make use of a novel Lyapunov functional correspondingly to globally asymptotic stabilization of the neural network under investigation. Prior to this process, it is necessary to present a uniqueness criterion for solutions of the proposed neural network. To this aim, the well‐known M‐matrix technique of the linear algebra is applied that guarantees existence of a unique equilibrium point of the considered Cohen–Grossberg neural network. Numerical perspective of this investigation leads us to some numerical prototypes that justify our stability criterion is applicable. This investigation will be finalized with interesting discussion on the nature of time delays that are characterized as fundamental elements in modeling of the neural networks.
Technical note: Accuracy and precision of T2 and T2* with a gradient‐echo spin‐echo (GESE) sequence for cardiac imaging
Authors: Huang Qi , Mendes Jason , Adluru Ganesh , DiBella Edward
Published: June 2023

Background

The use of a gradient echo spin echo (GESE) method to obtain rapid T2 and T2* estimation in the heart has been proposed. The effect of acquisition parameter settings on T2 and T2* bias and precision have not been investigated in depth.

Purpose

To understand factors impacting the quantification of T2 and T2* values with a gradient echo spin echo (GESE) method using echo planar imaging (EPI) readouts in a reduced field of view acquisition.

Methods

The GESE method is implemented with a reduced field‐of‐view using an outer volume suppression (OVS) technique to minimize the time for multi‐echo EPI readouts. The number of EPI readouts (images) for the GESE is optimized using Cramer‐Rao Lower Bound (CRLB) and Monte Carlo simulations with a nonlinear least‐square (NLLS) estimator. The SNR requirements were studied using the latter simulation method for a selected range of T2 and T2* values and T2/T2* ratios. Two healthy control subjects were imaged with the proposed GESE sequence and evaluated with the NLLS estimation method. In addition, the proposed OVS method was compared with a saturation bands OVS method in one subject. Clinical T2 and T2* mappings were used as the reference.

Results

The optimal number of EPI readouts is five and the performance is slightly better when the refocusing pulse is placed between the 2nd and 3rd readouts. The SNR requirement for achieving a target bias < 1 ms and standard deviation (SD) < 5 ms is more demanding when T2/T2* ratio increases. The minimum SNR requirement in the GESE acquisition should vary from 6 to 20 depending on specific myocardial T2 and T2* values at 3T. The T2 and T2* estimates using the proposed OVS method and the saturation bands OVS method are both similar to the reference.

Conclusion

The GESE sequence with five EPI readouts is a feasible and efficient technique that can estimate T2 and T2* values in the septal myocardium within a heartbeat when the SNR requirement can be satisfied.
Thinking and exploration of the teaching mode of empirical accounting course based on the Internet of Things and deep learning
Authors: Yang Shengyi , Zhu Shaoying
Published: June 2023

Empirical accounting is a relatively new course. It was first produced in the United States in the 1960s. After years of research and development, a relatively complete theoretical system has been formed. Empirical accounting teaching is a new content of accounting higher education in our country, which plays an important role in popularizing and improving the empirical study of accounting in our country. After investigating and analysing the empirical accounting teaching in most colleges in my country, this paper summarizes and analyzes the current status of empirical accounting teaching and discusses the optimization measures of its empirical accounting teaching mode based on the Internet of Things and deep learning. The experimental results show that this method can effectively improve students' learning efficiency and teachers' teaching satisfaction.
Fluid flow and mass transport in fractured media with curved fractures and varying apertures: A 3D modeling approach
Authors: Wang Luyu , Yin Zhen‐Yu
Published: June 2023

Fractured media have been extensively studied due to their significant impact on hydraulic properties of subsurface systems. However, accurately modeling and simulating flow and transport in complex 3D fractured media still remains a challenge. For this purpose, this work aims to develop a new 3D modeling approach and investigate flow and mass transport in fractured media. First, a modeling approach is presented for generating 3D complex structures and high quality finite element grids. This approach allows for the presence of a range of complex geometries, including curved fracture, multiple fractures and the coexistence of fracture‐inclusions. The resulting models and grids are of high quality, enabling accurate simulation and analysis of complex systems. Furthermore, stress‐dependent aperture and roughness are integrated in the computational scheme using Barton–Bandis law. The Galerkin finite element method is used for numerical discretization, then pressure and concentration are calculated in a unified formulation. Later, numerical tests are performed to analyze the role of 3D fractures in flow and mass transport. Simulation results show that fractures have a larger impact on pressure distribution and flow rate compared to inclusions. Fracture roughness increases the aperture then the effective conductivity is improved as well. Curved fractures may reduce flow rate more than planar fractures due to the tortuosity effect. The variation of equivalent permeability tensor is analyzed with varying orientation, roughness, and number of fractures. The impact of stress and fracture roughness causes a variation of fracture permeability and a high pressure gradient on the fracture‐matrix interface, resulting in different patterns of concentration evolution. Overall, this investigation provides insights into the role of 3D fractures in subsurface flow and transport, with implications for various applications.
Optimal convergence rate of the explicit Euler method for convection–diffusion equations II: High dimensional cases
Authors: Zhang Qifeng , Zhang Jiyuan , Sun Zhi‐zhong
Published: June 2023

This is the second part of study on the optimal convergence rate of the explicit Euler discretization in time for the convection–diffusion equations [Zhang et al. Appl. Math. Lett. 131 (2022), 108048] which focuses on high‐dimensional linear/nonlinear cases under Dirichlet/Neumann boundary conditions. Several new difference schemes are proposed based on the explicit Euler discretization in temporal derivative and centered difference discretization in spatial derivatives. The priori estimate of the improved difference scheme with application to the constant convection coefficients is performed under the maximum norm and the optimal convergence rate four is achieved when the step‐ratios along each direction equal to . Also we give partial results for the three‐dimensional case. The improved difference schemes have essentially improved the CFL condition and the numerical accuracy comparing with the classical difference schemes. Numerical examples involving two‐/three‐dimensional linear/nonlinear problems under Dirichlet/Neumann boundary conditions such as the Fisher equation, the Chafee–Infante equation and the Burgers' equation substantiate the good properties claimed for the improved difference scheme.
Implementations of an evidence‐based assertive case management intervention for suicide attempters: Post‐ACTION‐J Study (PACS)
Authors: Ishii Takao , Yonemoto Naohiro , Otaka Yasushi , Okamura Kazuya , Tsujii Noa , Otsuka Kotaro , Yoshimura Reiji , Kinoshita Toshihiko , Fujisawa Daisuke , Tachikawa Hirokazu , Yamada Mitsuhiko , Tsuyama Yusuke , Hashimoto Satoshi , Kawanishi Chiaki
Published: June 2023

Aim

An assertive case management intervention program, ACTION‐J, proved effective for preventing suicide attempters from reattempting suicide within 6 months. The ACTION‐J randomized trial was conducted as part of the “National Strategic Research Projects.” The program has been covered by the national medical payment system of Japan since 2016. The aim of the Post‐ACTION‐J Study (PACS) was to examine the current implementation status of assertive case management in a real‐world clinical setting.

Methods

PACS was a prospective, multicenter registry cohort study. The participants were suicide attempters admitted to the emergency departments of 10 participating medical facilities from October 2016 to September 2018. The assertive case management intervention developed by the ACTION‐J Study was offered to all patients, and the primary outcome was the duration and frequency of use of the intervention at 6 months.

Results

A total of 1159 patients were admitted to emergency departments after a suicide attempt during the study period, 144 of whom were included in our analysis. The proportion of participants who received the intervention for 6 months was 72.2% (104/144), and 63.9% (92/144) of the patients completed ≥7 case management interviews within 6 months.

Conclusion

The findings of this study indicate successful implementation of an assertive case management intervention program based on the ACTION‐J Study in a real‐world clinical setting, following its integration with the national medical payment scheme in Japan. The study provided the useful information that could improve the implementation of assertive case management interventions in future.
Observational Constraining Study of New Deceleration Parameters in FRW Universe
Authors: Bouali Amine , Chaudhary Himanshu , Mumtaz Saadia , Mustafa G. , Maurya S. K.
Published: June 2023

In the current paper, a dark energy (DE) model reconstructed from the well‐motivated deceleration parameter (DP) is analyzed. A flat FRW Universe filled with radiation, dark matter (DM), and dark energy fluids is considered. The free parameters are constrained using measurements from Supernovae, Hubble, Gamma Ray Bursts, Quasars, and Baryon acoustic Oscillations. The model under study is found to be very supported by observation with respect to ΛCDM since . Besides, a cosmographic analysis is performed showing that the reconstructed model behaves similarly as ΛCDM does. Finally, a diagnostic analysis is performed reporting that the studied model behaves quintessence type at a late time.
Strong PD‐L1 expression in granulomatous prostatitis
Authors: Dikov Dorian , Koleva Maria , Mollova Angelina , Fakirova Albena
Published: June 2023

Background

The expression of programmed cell death ligand protein (PD‐L1) is weakly investigated in non‐tumoral and inflammatory prostatic pathology. The diagnosis of granulomatous prostatitis (GP) rests on the recognition of localized or diffuse epithelioid granulomatous inflammation in prostatic tissue which is frequently difficult by conventional histological observation alone. PD‐L1 expression in GP is not well studied so far.

Methods

We studied PD‐L1 expression in 17 GP cases (9 nonspecific GP, 5 Bacillus Calmette‐Guérin induced prostatitis, 1 prostatic tuberculosis, and 3 cases of postsurgical prostatic granulomas). The control group included 10 radical prostatectomies of patients with high Gleason score prostate adenocarcinoma (PCa) and National Institutes of Health‐category IV prostatitis (high‐grade histologic prostatitis; HG‐HP).

Results

All of the GP cases showed easily visible strong membranous PD‐L1 expression (high levels of combined positive score) in localized and diffuse epithelioid granulomatous prostatic inflammation. None of the control cases showed the presence of significant PD‐L1 expression in inflammatory infiltrates in HG‐HP, tumor parenchyma, and stroma in PCa.

Conclusions

The study presents the first attempt to examine PD‐L1 expression in GP. Granulomatous inflammation in GP is easily identified when stained with PD‐L1.
Olfactory behavioral responses of two Drosophila species and their pupal parasitoid to volatiles from bananas
Authors: Bi Yaluan , Zhang Xuan , Chang Xuefei , Li Jiaxin , Xiao Shan , Zhang Bo , Dang Cong , Sun Linlin , Yao Hongwei , Fang Qi , Wang Fang , Ye Gongyin
Published: June 2023

Background

Behavior‐based manipulation is an essential part of Drosophila integrated pest management (IPM). Effective compounds are useful for improving the efficiency of baits and the development of attract‐and‐kill or push–pull strategies to manage Drosophila populations. Here, we investigated the olfactory behavior of two Drosophila species, as well as their pupal parasitoid, to volatiles from bananas, for the identification of effective compounds to control fly populations.

Results

The results showed that overripe bananas were most attractive to both flies, with a higher attraction index (AI) in Drosophila melanogaster than in Drosophila suzukii. The profiles of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from bananas with three different ripening stages were compared, and six VOCs were selected for behavioral tests. D. suzukii showed significantly different responses to isoamyl alcohol with D. melanogaster. The effects of ethyl butyrate and ethyl isovalerate on the two flies were dose‐dependent, with lower concentrations acting as repellent and higher concentrations acting as attractant. Isoamyl acetate, isoamyl butyrate and isoamyl isovalerate (0.005–0.05% v/v) were attractive to both flies. The parasitoid wasp Pachycrepoidus vindemmiae was repelled by isoamyl alcohol and ethyl butyrate, and attracted by ethyl isovalerate, but showed no significant response to isoamyl acetate, isoamyl butyrate and isoamyl isovalerate at the tested concentration.

Conclusion

This study indicated that the behavioral response of Drosophila to the odor of chemical compounds is dose‐dependent. Isoamyl alcohol and isoamyl acetate at certain concentrations could be used as repellents, whereas ethyl isovalerate as an attractant in control strategy design for D. suzukii. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Rational Design of a High‐Loading Polysulfide Cathode and a Thin‐Lithium Anode for Developing Lean‐Electrolyte Lithium–Sulfur Full Cells
Authors: Yu Guan‐Ting , Chung Sheng‐Heng
Published: June 2023

Lithium‐sulfur cells are attractive energy‐storage systems because of their high energy density and the electrochemical utilization rates of the high‐capacity lithium‐metal anode and the low‐cost sulfur cathode. The commercialization of high‐performance lithium–sulfur cells with high discharge capacity and cyclic stability requires the optimization of practical cell‐design parameters. Herein, a carbon structural material composed of a carbon nanotube skeleton entrapping conductive graphene is synthesized as an electrode substrate. The carbon structural material is optimized to develop a high‐loading polysulfide cathode with a high sulfur loading capacity (6–12 mg cm−2), rate performance (C/10–C/2), and cyclic stability for 200 cycles. A thin lithium anode based on the carbon structural material is developed and exhibits long lithium stripping/plating stability for ≈2500 h with a lithium‐ion transference number of 0.68. A lean‐electrolyte lithium–sulfur full cell with a low electrolyte‐to‐sulfur ratio of 6 µL mg−1 is constructed with the designed high‐loading polysulfide cathode and the thin lithium anode. The integration of all the critical cell‐design parameters endows the lithium–sulfur full cell with a low negative‐to‐positive capacity ratio of 2.4, while exhibiting stable cyclability with an initial discharge capacity of 550 mAh g−1 and 60% capacity retention after 200 cycles.
Long but Strong C−C Single Bonds: Challenges for Theory
Authors: Fokin Andrey A.
Published: June 2023

Theoretical challenges in describing molecules with anomalously long single C−C bonds are analyzed in terms of the relative contributions of stabilizing and destabilizing intramolecular interactions. Diamondoid dimers that are stable despite the presence of C−C bonds up to 1.7 Å long, as well as other bulky molecules stabilized due to intramolecular noncovalent interactions (London dispersions) are discussed. The unexpected stability of highly crowded molecules, such as diamondoid dimers and tert‐butyl‐substituted hexaphenylethanes, calls for reconsideration of the “steric effect” traditionally thought to destabilize the molecule. Alternatively, “steric attraction” helps to understand bonding in sterically overloaded molecules, whose structural and energetic analysis requires a proper theoretical description of noncovalent interactions.
Sesamin suppresses angiotensin‐II‐enhanced oxidative stress and hypertrophic markers in H9c2 cells
Authors: Chang Chih‐Chia , Cheng Hui‐Ching , Chou Wan‐Ching , Huang Yu‐Ting , Hsieh Pei‐Ling , Chu Pei‐Ming , Lee Shin‐Da
Published: June 2023

Myocardial hypertrophy plays a crucial role in cardiovascular disease (CVD) development. Myocardial hypertrophy is an adaptive response by myocardial cells to stress after cardiac injury to maintain cardiac output and function. Angiotensin II (Ang‐II) regulates CVD through the renin‐angiotensin‐aldosterone system, and its signaling in cardiac myocytes leads to excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, oxidative stress, and inflammation. Sesamin (SA), a natural compound in sesame seeds, has anti‐inflammatory and anti‐apoptotic effects. This study investigated whether SA could attenuate hypertrophic damage and oxidative injuries in H9c2 cells under Ang‐II stimulation. We found that SA decreased the cell surface area. Furthermore, Ang‐II treatment reduced Ang‐II‐increased ANP, BNP, and β‐MHC expression. Ang‐II enhanced NADPH oxidase activity, ROS formation, and decreased Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) activity. SA treatment reduces Ang‐II‐caused oxidative injuries. We also found that SA mitigates Ang‐II‐induced apoptosis and pro‐inflammatory responses. In conclusion, SA could attenuate Ang‐II‐induced cardiac hypertrophic injuries by inhibiting oxidative stress, apoptosis, and inflammation in H9c2 cells. Therefore, SA might be a potential supplement for CVD management.
Bisphenol S stimulates Leydig cell proliferation but inhibits differentiation in pubertal male rats through multiple mechanisms
Authors: Pan Peipei , Wen Zina , Ma Feifei , Lei Zhen , Pan Chengshuang , Fei Qianjin , Tian Erpo , Wang Yiyan , Zhu Qiqi , Li Huitao , Li Xiaoheng , Zhong Ying , Ge Ren‐Shan , Xu Ren‐ai
Published: June 2023

Bisphenol S (BPS) is a novel bisphenol A (BPA) analogue, a ubiquitous environmental pollutant that disrupts male reproductive system. Whether BPS affects Leydig cell maturation in male puberty remains unclear. Male Sprague–Dawley rats (age of 35 days) were daily gavaged to 0, 1, 10, 100, and 200 mg/kg/day from postnatal days 35–56. BPS at 1–10 mg/kg/day and higher doses markedly reduced serum testosterone and progesterone levels but it at 200 mg/kg/day significantly increased estradiol level. BPS at 100 and 200 mg/kg/day significantly elevated serum luteinizing hormone (LH) levels. BPS at 1–10 mg/kg/day and higher doses significantly reduced inhibin A and inhibin B levels. BPS at 100 and 200 mg/kg/day markedly increased CYP11A1+ Leydig cell number, but did not affect HSD11B1+ (a mature Leydig cell marker) cell number. BPS at 10 mg/kg/day and higher doses significantly downregulated the expression of Cyp11a1 and at 100 and 200 mg/kg/d significantly lowered Cyp17a1, Hsd11b1, and Nr5a1 in the testes. BPS at 100 and/or 200 mg/kg/day significantly elevated Lhb in the pituitary. BPS at 100 and 200 mg/kg/day significantly increased the phosphorylation of AKT1, AKT2, and CREB without affecting total AKT1, AKT2, and CREB levels. BPS at 1–100 μM significantly suppressed testosterone production and induced proliferation of primary immature Leydig cells after 24 h of treatment and these actions were reversed by estrogen receptor α antagonist, ICI 182780, and partially reversed by vitamin E. BPS at 0.1–10 μM significantly increased oxidative stress of Leydig cells in vitro. BPS also directly inhibited 17β‐hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 3 activity at 10–100 μM. In conclusion, BPS causes hypergonadotropic androgen deficiency in male rats during pubertal exposure via activating ESR1 and inducing ROS in immature Leydig cells and directly inhibiting 17β‐hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 3 activity.
Hematological, biochemical, genotoxic, and histopathological changes induced by pyridaben
Authors: Ali Marwa F. , Mohamed Wafaa H.
Published: June 2023

The current work examined the genotoxic effects of pyridaben (PDB) in male Sprague Dawley rats. Twenty Sprague Dawley rats were divided into four equal groups; the first group was used as a control group; the other three groups were exposed to 19, 28.5, and 57 mg/kg b.w PDB by oral gavage for 4 weeks. Blood samples were collected for hematological and biochemical parameters; femoral bone marrow was flushed for chromosomal aberrations (CA) assay and liver samples were used for the analysis of gene expression of IL‐6 and Casp‐3 as well as histopathological and immunhistochemical investigation for Casp‐3. The results showed that PDB exposure lead to non‐significant changes in hematological parameters in all PDB administrated groups while malondialdehyde, glutathione peroxidase, aspartate aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase were significantly increased in 19 and 57 mg/kg PDB doses groups Also, gene expression of IL‐6 and Casp‐3 revealed a significant increase in 28.5 and 57 mg/kg PDB doses groups as compared with the control. However, there was no significant change in the percentage of CAs in bone marrow cells in all PDB‐exposed groups. The histopathological and immunhistochemical examination showed focal areas of inflammatory cellular infiltration with fibrosis in 57 mg/kg b.w PDB dose group accompanied by the severe positive reaction of caspase3 in the liver.
Veterinary drugs in groundwater in a dairy region of central Argentina and risk assessment for human health
Authors: Borello Julieta Soledad , Giannini‐Kurina Franca , Grassi Diego Alejandro , Tentor Gonzalo , Cañas Ana Irene , Nassetta Mirtha Maria , Lepori Edda Cristina Villaamil
Published: June 2023

Veterinary drugs used in dairy production are potential contaminants of surface or groundwater sources, being able to affect human and environmental health. It is known that chronic exposure to antibiotics in low concentrations present in water can generate microbial resistance. This study aimed to evaluate the presence of veterinary drugs in 53 groundwater samples used for animal and human consumption, collected in dairy milking parlors, in an important milk‐producing area of central Argentina, and to assess the risk to human health when they are used as drinking water. In 75% of the total samples analyzed, at least one veterinary drug was detected. The most frequently found drugs in water samples were the antibiotics tetracycline in 58.5% and oxytetracycline in 56.6%, and an anti‐inflammatory, flunixin in 39.6%. In the water samples, the tetracycline and oxytetracycline concentrations were between 0.1 and 5.3 μg/L and flunixin concentrations were between 0.01 and 2.1 μg/L. The frequency of appearance and the concentration levels of the substances found in the water samples were evaluated according to the productivity, size, and production system (confined or pasture) of the dairy farms. Higher concentrations and proportions of water samples containing antibiotics were observed when the number of animals per dairy farm was >182 and when the productivity was high (>25 liters per animal per day). In the case of flunixin, the percentage of detection was similar in all evaluated categories. The risk assessment for children and adults, considering the intake of drinking water containing residues of these drugs, did not indicate a significant health risk. It would be advisable to evaluate other sources of drinking water, both surface and underground, in other regions of the country, to provide data to assess the impact of these substances and the other contaminants on environmental and human health.
Singing in Preschool Promotes Literacy Development
Authors: Galeza Abbey , Rasinski Timothy
Published: June 2023

Concepts of print are essential, foundational literacy understandings about words in their written, or print form. Concepts include discerning pictures from written words, reading print from top to bottom and left to right with one‐to‐one correspondence between words read and words in print. Reading aloud from a big book is widely accepted and implemented to teach the concepts of print. We present the repeated singing of a shared text as an alternative or complementary instructional method for teaching concepts of print in the preschool classroom. This article reports major findings that showed substantial developments in preschool student's understanding of print concepts after just 2 weeks of singing a shared text. Additionally, we comment on the joyfulness that song can bring into the early childhood classroom. Based on these findings, we suggest engaging students in repeated singing of a shared text as an instructional approach for teaching concepts of print to preschool students.
Studying the photodecomposition rate constant and morphology properties of modified poly(vinyl chloride) with novel Schiff's bases
Authors: Kadhom Mohammed , Mohammed Alaa , Ghani Hassan , Hasan Amer Adnan , Mousa Omar G. , Abdulla Roaa T. , Al‐Dahhan Wedad H. , Al‐Mashhadani Mohammed H. , Yusop Rahimi M. , Yousif Emad
Published: June 2023

The photodegradation of a poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) film filled with Schiff bases in its structure was investigated and studied by comparing it with a blank PVC film. A PVC film containing novel Schiff's bases was synthesized and used as a photostabilizer for PVC. PVC was exposed to ultraviolet light and underwent harmful changes, where the photostabilization effect differed before and after filling aromatic Schiff bases within the structure. After 300 h of UV irradiation, the photodecomposition rate constants were calculated to identify the impact of Schiff bases on PVC films. In order to evaluate the impact of adding Schiff bases as photo‐stabilizers, the evolution of different functional groups during irradiation was monitored using FTIR spectra. Also, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) were exploited to examine the surface morphology of produced polymers. These investigations showed that filling novel Schiff bases inside the polymers performed much better photostabilization than plain PVC. Hence, the photodecomposition rate constant, on the other hand, was calculated alongside the irradiation time.
Automated layer identification and segmentation of x‐ray computer tomography imaged PCBs
Authors: Yun Xiangyu , Zhang Xiaomei , Wang Yanfang , Li Mohan , Liu Shuangquan , Wang Zhe , Wang Mian , Wei Cunfeng
Published: June 2023

The non‐destructive inspection of Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) through r‐ray Computer Tomography (CT) is a recently developed method that offers several advantages over traditional inspection techniques. This method is non‐invasive, quick, and offers high resolution, leading to significant improvements in inspection and repair efficiency. Post‐image analysis is an important step in PCB inspection and has important practical significance for automatic positioning and determining the location of faults. Usually, the results of image segmentation are an important basis for PCB defect detection, and accurate segmentation results can effectively improve the efficiency and accuracy of PCB inspection and increase the level of automation. This paper discusses two innovative improvements for the automatic segmentation process: firstly determining which slices of an x‐ray CT 3D PCB stack belong to which layer on a physical PCB in an automatic, generic and completely unsupervised way, which is verified on a 4‐layer PCB; secondly proposing a level set‐based image segmentation algorithm for the problem of gray scale inhomogeneity present in PCB CT. Experimental results on real PCB CT images with high aliasing and artifacts show that the proposed model can obtain better performance than the popular active contour models.
[Zr6(μ3‐O)4(μ3‐OH)4](1‐adamantanecarboxylate)12]: a model for extrinsic “defect‐engineerable” porosity
Authors: Gvilava Vasily , Vieten Maximilian , Heinen Tobias , Oestreich Robert , Boldog Ishtvan , Janiak Christoph
Published: June 2023

The molecular zirconium‐oxo cluster with 1‐adamantanecarboxylate of ideal formula [Zr6O4(OH)4(AdCA)12] (AdCA=1‐adamantanecarboxylate) has a near spherical shape with a hydrophobic “shell” of bulky rigid adamantyl groups. The use of formic acid as a modulator and a large excess of the HAdCA were found to be crucial for its reproducible synthesis and the formation of ~100‐150 μm well‐formed rhombohedral single crystals. Crystallization in the presence of formic acid leads, however, to ligand‐substitution defects (1‐2 out of 12) which were quantified by thermogravimetry and NMR. A defect‐engineering with a higher defect ratio in such oxo clusters is a promising approach aiming at extrinsic porosity.
Multi-Stakeholder Networks in a Circular Economy Transition: A Typology of Stakeholder Relationships
Authors: Blomberg Annika , Kujala Johanna , Heikkinen Anna
Published: June 2023

This chapter examines relationships among stakeholders seeking to promote the transition to a circular economy. We ask what kinds of relationships there are among circular economy stakeholders and how the transition to a circular economy is accelerated through these relationships. Our empirical material consists of 35 semi-structured interviews with circular economy stakeholders from private, public and third-sector organisations at local, regional and national levels in Finland, a country that has set the goal of becoming a global circular economy leader by 2025. Our inductive analysis identifies four prevalent types of relationships in the multi-stakeholder network: (1) directive relationships, (2) mediative relationships, (3) collaborative relationships and (4) competitive relationships. We show that directive relationships provide the foundation for the circular economy and mediative relationships enable the broadening and deepening of network activities. Together, directive and mediative relationships enable and form a basis for the collaborative and competitive relationships central to the implementation of a circular economy. We conclude that all relationship types are necessary to enabling the circular economy transition.
Developing a Participatory Approach to Support Decision-Making in Waste Management
Authors: Kujanpää Lauri , Pihkola Hanna
Published: June 2023

Transition towards a circular economy and reaching the tightening recycling targets in the European Union require multilateral and joint efforts of multiple stakeholders. We arranged workshops with European experts in waste management to gather insights from typical decision processes, stakeholder groups involved, and challenges faced when improving the collection of recyclable waste fractions. Furthermore, we experimented with a method to facilitate the stakeholder interaction during one of the workshops. Based on the experiences gained, we propose the use of multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) to support the management of interactive decision-making processes in waste management value chains. We analysed the findings from our practice-oriented, empiric decision-making exercise in light of selected literature from the fields of stakeholder theory and stakeholder engagement. Our claim is that the formal procedure of MCDM can help to provide a structure for the assessment of complex decision problems in situations where interdependencies between the actors and their conflicting interests affect the outcome. Furthermore, the proposed MCDM approach provides concrete results in the form of priorities between alternative actions. Although we have experimented with the approach in the context of waste management, the approach should also be applicable for creating shared understanding and legitimate decisions in multi-stakeholder networks in other contexts.
Conformal bootstrap in momentum space at finite volume
Authors: Nishikawa Kanade
Published: June 2023

Abstract

In this paper, we Fourier transform the Wightman function concerning energy and angular momentum on the SD−1 spatial slice in radial quantization in D = 2, 3 dimensions. In each case, we use the conformal Ward Identities to solve systematically for the Fourier components. We then use these Fourier components to build conformal blocks for the four-point function in momentum space, giving a finite-volume version of the momentum-space conformal blocks. We check that this construction is consistent with the known result in infinite volume. Our construction may help to find bootstrap equations that can give nontrivial constraints that do not appear in analysis in infinite volume. We show some examples of bootstrap equations and their nontriviality.
Level crossings, attractor points and complex multiplication
Authors: Ahmed Hamza , Ruehle Fabian
Published: June 2023

Abstract

We study the complex structure moduli dependence of the scalar Laplacian eigenmodes for one-parameter families of Calabi-Yau n-folds in ℙn+1. It was previously observed that some eigenmodes get lighter while others get heavier as a function of these moduli, which leads to eigenvalue crossing. We identify the cause for this behavior for the torus. We then show that at points in a sublocus of complex structure moduli space where Laplacian eigenmodes cross, the torus has complex multiplication. We speculate that the generalization to arbitrary Calabi-Yau manifolds could be that level crossing is related to rank one attractor points. To test this, we compute the eigenmodes numerically for the quartic K3 and the quintic threefold, and match crossings to CM and attractor points in these varieties. To quantify the error of our numerical methods, we also study the dependence of the numerical spectrum on the quality of the Calabi-Yau metric approximation, the number of points sampled from the Calabi-Yau variety, the truncation of the eigenbasis, and the distance from degeneration points in complex structure moduli space.
Chirality changing RG flows: dynamics and models
Authors: Shirman Yuri , Shukla Shreya , Waterbury Michael
Published: June 2023

Abstract

Chirality plays an important role in understanding the dynamics of quantum field theories. In this paper, we study the dynamics of models where renormalization group flows change the chiral structure of the theory. We introduce model building tools and construct models with a variety of chirality flows: from the appearance of new massless composite matter, to the development of mass gaps to completely general changes in the chiral matter content. The stability of chirally symmetric vacua is sensitive to the interplay between non-perturbative dynamics and deformations necessary to generate chirality flows. In particular, we show that chirality flows can be easily induced by deformations of s-confining models. On the other hand, in the absence of true s-confinement, the required deformations destabilize chirally symmetric ground states.
Functional outcome and athletic level after arthroscopic repair followed by triple pelvic osteotomy in patients with labral tears resulting from acetabular dysplasia
Authors: Jaber Ayham , Bangert Yannic , Gather Katharina , Hagmann Sébastien , Renkawitz Tobias , Barié Alexander
Published: June 2023

Background

Patients with acetabular dysplasia are at a higher risk of developing symptomatic labral tears. Isolated treatments that address these pathologies are well established. Combined treatment with hip reorientation osteotomy using Bernese periacetabular osteotomy in addition to arthroscopic labral repair show good results. Studies that report the outcome in patients who received both arthroscopic labral repair and a triple pelvic osteotomy (TPO) are lacking. The aim of this study is to investigate the short to midterm functional outcome and activity level in these patients.

Methods

This case series retrospectively included 8 patients (2 male, 6 female) with acetabular dysplasia (lateral center-edge angle [LCEA] ≤ 25°) and a labral tear on magnetic resonance arthrography (MRA). All patients underwent arthroscopic labral repair followed by TPO after an average period of 3 months (range 2–6). Average age at the time of surgery was 25 years (range 15–37). Patients were followed up and the following main parameters were assessed: LCEA, modified Harris hip score (mHSS), Tegner score, UCLA score, patient satisfaction on a scale of 1–4.

Results

The mean follow-up was 19 months (range 15–25). The mean LCEA increased from 18° to 37° (p < 0.0001). The mHSS improved from a mean of 79 to 94 on final follow-up (p = 0.00123). The Tegner and UCLA scores had a median of 4 and 5, respectively. The mean LCEA increased from 18° to 37° (p < 0.0001). The mean patient satisfaction was 3.6.

Conclusion

Patients with evidence of a labral tear resulting from acetabular dysplasia benefit from arthroscopic repair followed by a TPO. The literature still lacks evidence that labral repair and reorientation osteotomy produce superior outcome compared to osteotomy alone. Treatment should consider clinical presentation in addition to radiological findings with emphasis on MRA.
Positive Lyapunov Exponent in the Hopf Normal Form with Additive Noise
Authors: Chemnitz Dennis , Engel Maximilian
Published: June 2023

We prove the positivity of Lyapunov exponents for the normal form of a Hopf bifurcation, perturbed by additive white noise, under sufficiently strong shear strength. This completes a series of related results for simplified situations which we can exploit by studying suitable limits of the shear and noise parameters. The crucial technical ingredient for making this approach rigorous is a result on the continuity of Lyapunov exponents via Furstenberg–Khasminskii formulas.
Clinical outcomes of vacuum-dehydrated amniotic membrane (Omnigen) mounted on contact lens (Omnilenz) in eyes with acute chemical eye injuries
Authors: Lotfy Nancy M. , Al Rashidi Salah , Hagras Sherein M.
Published: June 2023

Background

Omnigen is a vacuum-dehydrated amniotic membrane transplant. It can be delivered to the eye pre-mounted on a special bandage contact lens (Omnilenz) that enables its application without the need for sutures or glue; the aim of this study is to evaluate the short-term clinical outcomes of Omnilenz-Omnigen complex in eyes with acute chemical injury (CEI).

Methods

A prospective interventional study included patients with different grades of acute CEI attending the casualty between July 2021 and November 2022. All patients received first aid measures followed by the application of Omnilenz-Omnigen within the first 2 days. Patients were followed up for at least 1 month. Primary outcomes include epithelial defect and limbal ischemia. Secondary outcomes include best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and tolerability.

Results

The study included 23 eyes of 21 patients with acute CEI mostly due to alcohol (34.8%). After the 1st application, the size of the epithelial defect showed a statistically significant reduction (p = 0.016) with improvement in BCVA (p < 0.001). Restoration of the limbal vascularity was obtained in 56.5% of the eyes. Repeated application of Omnilenz was required in 5 eyes (21.7%). The size of the epithelial defect was reduced after the second application (p = 0.504) with improved BCVA (p = 0.185). After 1st month, complete epithelial healing was achieved in all the eyes. Mild limbal ischemia persists in 3 (13%) of the eyes. Final BCVA showed statistically significant improvement (p < 0.001). None of the patients develops any serious complications.

Conclusion

Omnilenz proved to be easy to apply and well tolerated by patients, with promising clinical outcomes.
Mixed methodology in human brain research: integrating MRI and histology
Authors: Alkemade Anneke , Großmann Rosa , Bazin Pierre-Louis , Forstmann Birte U.
Published: June 2023

Postmortem magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can provide a bridge between histological observations and the in vivo anatomy of the human brain. Approaches aimed at the co-registration of data derived from the two techniques are gaining interest. Optimal integration of the two research fields requires detailed knowledge of the tissue property requirements for individual research techniques, as well as a detailed understanding of the consequences of tissue fixation steps on the imaging quality outcomes for both MRI and histology. Here, we provide an overview of existing studies that bridge between state-of-the-art imaging modalities, and discuss the background knowledge incorporated into the design, execution and interpretation of postmortem studies. A subset of the discussed challenges transfer to animal studies as well. This insight can contribute to furthering our understanding of the normal and diseased human brain, and to facilitate discussions between researchers from the individual disciplines.
Impulse für eine nachhaltige Stahlproduktion – Aufbereitungstechnische Charakterisierung von Reststoffen der Stahlwerksindustrie
Authors: Marousek Lukas , Flachberger Helmut , Sorger Christoph , Griessacher Thomas
Published: June 2023

Stahlwerke, die einen LD-Konverter oder Elektrolichtbogenofen betreiben, leisten einen maßgebenden Beitrag, die in Schrotten enthaltenen Wertmetalle wieder verfügbar zu machen und damit dem Stoffkreislauf abermals zuzuführen. Für gleichmäßige Stahlproduktqualitäten werden nur ausgewählte Schrotte eingesetzt, welche wiederum gewisse Qualitätskriterien aufweisen müssen. Trotz hoher Schrottqualitäten unterliegen Schrotte gewissen inhaltlichen Schwankungen, je nach Sorte, Lieferant, Herkunft oder Jahreszeit. Um diese Schwankungen so gering wie möglich zu halten, wird vor dem Schrotteinsatz eine so genannte Störstoffentfrachtung durchgeführt, wobei z. B. mittels Magnetscheidung die eingesetzte Qualität der zum Einsatz gelangenden Schrotte verbessert wird.

Die Stahl- und Walzwerk Marienhütte GmbH plant zu diesem Zweck eine Investition in eine neue Aufbereitungsanlage. Das Stahlwerk erhofft sich so verbesserte Prozessbedingungen, beispielsweise ein verbessertes metallisches Ausbringen, eine verringerte Hüttenschottermenge und eine Reduktion unerwünschter Metalle wie Kupfer oder Aluminium. Aufbereitungstechnische Untersuchungen vom Labor- bis zum Pilotmaßstab zeigten zudem das hohe Potenzial für eine weitere Verwendung der unmagnetischen Schrottstoffströme auf.
COMET Module FuLIBatteR – Auf der Suche nach der besten Lösung für das Recycling von Lithium-Ionen-Batterien der Zukunft
Authors: Rutrecht Bettina , Rieger Johannes , Nigl Thomas
Published: June 2023

FuLIBatteR, ein Modul (bestehend aus drei Sub-Projekten) koordiniert vom metallurgischen Kompetenzzentrum K1-MET GmbH, und gefördert im Rahmen des österreichischen Kompetenzzentrums COMET der Österreichischen Forschungsförderungsgesellschaft (FFG), untersucht in Zusammenarbeit mit internationalen Partnern aus Industrie und Wirtschaft die Steigerung der Recyclingfähigkeit von Lithium-Ionen-Batterien (LIB). Im Fokus steht dabei die Rückgewinnung von Wertmetallen wie Aluminium, Kupfer, Kobalt, Mangan und Nickel und der kritischen Rohstoffe Lithium, Phosphor, Silizium und Graphit. Am Ende des Moduls mit einer Laufzeit von vier Jahren wird die Weiterentwicklung und Kombination bestehender LIB-Behandlungsverfahren aus den Bereichen Pyrometallurgie, (Bio‑)Hydrometallurgie und mechanisch-physikalischer Aufbereitung erwartet, welche zu einer Best-Practice-Behandlungsroute führen kann. Diese optimierte Route wird am Ende der Projektzeit einer ökologischen Bewertung im Vergleich zum bestehenden Referenzverfahren (LIBRES/REDUX) unterzogen, um Maßnahmen brach liegender Verbesserungspotentiale für das LIB-Recycling aufzuzeigen. Stoffkreisläufe kritischer Rohstoffe werden geschlossen und die Versorgungssicherheit der darauf angewiesenen Industriezweige verbessert. Durch die Bewertung ökologischer Auswirkungen werden Daten generiert, die bisher nicht oder kaum öffentlich zugänglich waren. Das ermöglicht die Diskussion über ökologisch sinnvolles LIB-Recycling im Sinne einer nachhaltigen Produktion.
Standardization of rectal cancer surgery and bowel preparation in Austria
Authors: Widmann Kerstin M. , Dawoud Christopher , Harpain Felix , Aigner Felix , Presl Jaroslav , Rosen Harald , Zitt Matthias , Schoppmann Sebastian F. , Emmanuel Klaus , Riss Stefan
Published: June 2023

Background

Standardized management of colorectal cancer is crucial for achieving an optimal clinical and oncological outcome. The present nationwide survey was designed to provide data about the surgical management of rectal cancer patients. In addition, we evaluated the standard approach for bowel preparation in all centers in Austria performing elective colorectal surgery.

Methods

The Austrian Society of Surgical Oncology (ACO[“Arbeitsgemeinschaft für chirurgische Onkonlogie”]-ASSO) conducted a multicenter questionnaire-based study comprising 64 hospitals between October 2020 and March 2021.

Results

The median number of low anterior resections performed annually per department was 20 (range 0–73). The highest number was found in Vienna, with a median of 27 operations, whereas Vorarlberg was the state with the lowest median number of 13 resections per year. The laparoscopic approach was the standard technique in 46 (72%) departments, followed by the open approach in 30 (47%), transanal total mesorectal excision (TaTME) in 10 (16%) and robotic surgery in 6 hospitals (9%). Out of 64 hospitals 51 (80%) named a standard for bowel preparation before colorectal resections. No preparation was commonly used for the right colon (33%).

Conclusion

Considering the low number of low anterior resections performed in each hospital per year in Austria, defined centers for rectal cancer surgery are still scarce. Many hospitals did not transfer recommended bowel preparation guidelines into clinical practice.