bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis of Large Ultra-wideband Sparse Circular Planar Arrays Based on Rotationally Symmetric Structure
Authors: Liu Foxiang , Wen Pin , Zhang Chaoqun , Wang Lei , Xu Kaida
Published: November 2023

This article aims to improve the synthesis efficiency and radiation performance of large ultra-wideband (UWB) rotationally symmetric sparse circular planar arrays by using a modified differential evolution algorithm (MDEA). In the proposed MDEA, we adopt a new encoding mechanism in which an individual represents an element position expressed in polar coordinates. Importantly, such an encoding mechanism can facilitate the multiplication calculation for the array factor in the individual being updated while making it easier to meet the given minimum element spacing constraint. Moreover, to cater to the new encoding mechanism, some low-dimensional evolution operators are introduced to avoid the prematurity. In particular, the UWB rotationally symmetric sparse planar array synthesis problem is transformed into the sidelobe suppression problem of the array pattern at the highest frequency under the given array aperture, and the minimum spacing constraints is used to guarantee enough space to place physical UWB antenna elements. Two synthesis examples of UWB sparse planar arrays based on rotationally symmetric structures are presented. The results show that the peak sidelobe level (PSL) obtained by the proposed MDEA is significantly lower than the results obtained by some existing algorithms in an acceptable CPU time, which proves the effectiveness and superiority of the proposed MDEA.
Design Methodology and Metrics for Robust and Highly Qualified Security Modules in Trusted Environments
Authors: Crocetti Luca , Nannipieri Pietro , Di Matteo Stefano , Saponara Sergio
Published: November 2023

Cyberattacks and cybercriminal activities constitute one of the biggest threats in the modern digital era, and the frequency, efficiency, and severity of attacks have grown over the years. Designers and producers of digital systems try to counteract such issues by exploiting increasingly robust and advanced security mechanisms to provide secure execution environments aimed at preventing cyberattacks or, in the worst case, at containing intrusions by isolation. One of the most significative examples comes from General Purpose Processor (GPP) manufacturers such as Intel, AMD, and ARM, which in the last years adopted the integration of dedicated resources to provide Trusted Execution Environments (TEEs) or secure zones. TEEs are built layer by layer on top of an implicitly trusted component, the Root-of-Trust (RoT). Since each security chain is only as strong as its weakest link, each element involved in the construction of a TEE starting from the RoT must be bulletproof as much as possible. In this work, we revise and propose a design methodology to implement in both hardware (HW) and software (SW) highly featured and robust security blocks by highlighting the key points that designers should take care of, and the key metrics that should be used to evaluate the security level of the developed modules. We also include an analysis of the state of the art concerning RoT-based TEEs, and we illustrate a case study that documents the implementation of a cryptographic coprocessor for the secure subsystem of the Rhea GPP from the European Processor Initiative (EPI) project, according to the presented methodology. This work can be used by HW/SW security module designers as a cutting-edge guideline.
Model-Free Predictive Current Control of Five-Phase PMSM Drives
Authors: Huang Wentao , Huang Yijia , Xu Dezhi
Published: November 2023

Model predictive control is highly dependent on accurate models and the parameters of electric motor drives. Multiphase permanent magnet synchronous motors (PMSMs) contain nonlinear parameters and mutual cross-coupling dynamics, resulting in challenges in modeling and parameter acquisition. To lessen the parameter dependence of current predictions, a model-free predictive current control (MFPCC) strategy based on an ultra-local model and motor outputs is proposed for five-phase PMSM drives. The ultra-local model is constructed according to the differential equation of current. The inherent relation between the parameters in the predictive current model and the ultra-local model is analyzed in detail. The unknowns of the ultra-local model are estimated using the motor current and voltage at different time instants without requiring motor parameters or observers. Moreover, space vector modulation technology is employed to minimize the voltage tracking error. Finally, simulations and experiments are conducted to verify the effectiveness of the MFPCC with space vector modulation. The results confirm that the proposed method can effectively eliminate the impact of motor parameters and improve steady-state performance. Moreover, this control strategy demonstrates good robustness against load variations.
Influence of JFET Width on Short-Circuit Robustness of 1200 V SiC Power MOSFETs
Authors: Xu Hongyi , Wang Baozhu , Ren Na , Long Hu , Huang Kai , Sheng Kuang
Published: November 2023

This paper investigates and compares the static performance and short-circuit (SC) robustness of 1200 V SiC MOSFETs with varying JFET widths (WJFET = 2.0–5.0 μm). Short-circuit measurements as well as electrical-thermal simulations are used to identify thermal distribution and maximum electrical field, providing valuable insights into the design limits. The devices under test (DUTs) with narrow and wide WJFET exhibit different failure mechanisms under SC stress. After the short-circuit failure, interlayer dielectric (ILD) cracks are observed in DUTs with narrow JFET width (WJFET < 3 μm). In contrast, it is discovered that the burn mark is located in the channel region of the device with a wide JFET width. Moreover, the short-circuit withstand time (SCWT) of DUTs with narrow and wide WJFET exhibits varying trends under high temperature conditions (100 °C). These results can help verify the different failure mechanisms and determine an optimal JFET design to improve the trade-off between the static performance and SC ruggedness of the SiC MOSFETs.
Voice-Controlled Intelligent Personal Assistant for Call-Center Automation in the Uzbek Language
Authors: Mukhamadiyev Abdinabi , Khujayarov Ilyos , Cho Jinsoo
Published: November 2023

The demand for customer support call centers has surged across various sectors due to the pandemic. Yet, the constraints of round-the-clock human services and fluctuating wait times pose challenges in fully meeting customer needs. In response, there’s a growing need for automated customer service systems that can provide responses tailored to specific domains and in the native languages of customers, particularly in developing nations like Uzbekistan where call center usage is on the rise. Our system, “UzAssistant,” is designed to recognize user voices and accurately present customer issues in standardized Uzbek, as well as vocalize the responses to voice queries. It employs feature extraction and recurrent neural network (RNN)-based models for effective automatic speech recognition, achieving an impressive 96.4% accuracy in real-time tests with 56 participants. Additionally, the system incorporates a sentence similarity assessment method and a text-to-speech (TTS) synthesis feature specifically for the Uzbek language. The TTS component utilizes the WaveNet architecture to convert text into speech in Uzbek.
From Vibrations to Visions: Raman Spectroscopy’s Impact on Skin Cancer Diagnostics
Authors: Delrue Charlotte , Speeckaert Reinhart , Oyaert Matthijs , De Bruyne Sander , Speeckaert Marijn M.
Published: November 2023

Raman spectroscopy, a non-invasive diagnostic technique capturing molecular vibrations, offers significant advancements in skin cancer diagnostics. This review delineates the ascent of Raman spectroscopy from classical methodologies to the forefront of modern technology, emphasizing its precision in differentiating between malignant and benign skin tissues. Our study offers a detailed examination of distinct Raman spectroscopic signatures found in skin cancer, concentrating specifically on squamous cell carcinoma, basal cell carcinoma, and melanoma, across both in vitro and in vivo research. The discussion extends to future possibilities, spotlighting enhancements in portable Raman instruments, the adoption of machine learning for spectral data refinement, and the merging of Raman imaging with other diagnostic techniques. The review culminates by contemplating the broader implications of these advancements, suggesting a trajectory that may significantly optimize the accuracy and efficiency of skin cancer diagnostics.
Clinical Implication of Supra-Normal Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction in Patients Undergoing Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement
Authors: Imamura Teruhiko , Hida Yuki , Ueno Hiroshi , Kinugawa Koichiro , Yashima Fumiaki , Tada Norio , Yamawaki Masahiro , Shirai Shinichi , Naganuma Toru , Yamanaka Futoshi , Noguchi Masahiko , Mizutani Kazuki , Takagi Kensuke , Watanabe Yusuke , Yamamoto Masanori , Asami Masahiko , Izumo Masaki , Ohno Yohei , Nishida Hidetaka , Hayashida Kentaro ,   on behalf of the OCEAN-TAVI Investigators
Published: November 2023

Background: Individuals with heart failure displaying supra-normal left ventricular ejection fraction (snLVEF) may exhibit less favorable clinical outcomes in contrast to their counterparts with normal left ventricular ejection fraction (nLVEF). The distinctive characteristics and mid-term prognosis of individuals with severe aortic stenosis and snLVEF following transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) remain enigmatic. Methods: Among 7393 patients diagnosed with severe aortic stenosis who underwent TAVR between 2013 and 2019 and were enlisted in the optimized transcatheter valvular intervention (OCEAN-TAVI) multicenter registry (UMIN000020423), we selected patients with left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≥ 50%. snLVEF was defined as LVEF exceeding 65%. We compared the baseline characteristics and assessed three-year post-TAVR mortality and heart failure readmission rates between the snLVEF (LVEF > 65%) and nLVEF cohorts (LVER 50–65%). Results: Our study cohort comprised 5989 patients (mean age 84.4 ± 5.1 years and 1783 males). Among these, 2819 patients were categorized within the snLVEF cohort, while the remaining 3170 were allocated to the nLVEF group. Individuals within the snLVEF cohort were more likely to be female and displayed lower levels of natriuretic peptides, as well as smaller left ventricular dimensions in comparison to their nLVEF counterparts (p < 0.05 for all). The presence of snLVEF emerged as an independent predictor of the three-year composite endpoint relative to nLVEF, with an adjusted hazard ratio of 1.16 (95% confidence interval 1.02–1.31, p = 0.023) after accounting for several potential confounding factors. Conclusions: snLVEF was relatively common among candidates for TAVR with preserved ejection fraction. Patients harboring snLVEF appear to manifest a distinctive clinical profile and encounter less favorable clinical outcomes following TAVR in contrast to those characterized by nLVEF.
The Psychological, Social and Behavioral Impact of Intravitreal Anti-VEGF Therapy: An Analysis from the ALBATROS Data
Authors: Wolfram Christian , Pfeiffer Norbert , Hudde Tobias , Klatt Alexander , Schnegelsberg Birthe , Ross Mike , Ziemssen Focke , Schuster Alexander K.
Published: November 2023

Background: Retinal diseases such as neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD), diabetic macular edema (DME), or branch/central retinal vein occlusion (B/CRVO) have significant implications for patients’ social and psychological well-being. The ALBATROS study aimed to assess the care situation of patients who received anti-VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) treatment. To gain a comprehensive understanding of patients’ backgrounds and attitudes, we developed an exploratory, structured questionnaire, the Basic Care and Patient Satisfaction Questionnaire (BPZ-9). Methods: The data collection took place at the beginning and after twelve months of anti-VEGF therapy. The BPZ-9 questionnaire comprises nine questions to evaluate patients’ psychological and social situation and satisfaction with treatment. Results: Data were collected from 1478 nAMD (mean 78 years), 445 DME (67 years), 233 BRVO (70 years), and 144 CRVO (71 years) patients at 102 study centers throughout Germany. One in four patients had difficulties walking, and one in five needed an accompanying person for treatment. Anxiety about losing vision was present in three out of four patients at the beginning, and it slightly decreased to two out of three patients over the 12-month treatment period. The distress of having a retinal disease was generally higher than the distress related to the treatment. Most patients reported high treatment satisfaction (73%) and felt well-informed (81%). Conclusions: There is a relevant social and psychological impact related to anti-VEGF treatment. The patients’ perception, attitudes, and commitment need further investigation.
The Process of Plaque Rupture: The Role of Vasa Vasorum and Medial Smooth Muscle Contraction Monitored by the Cardio-Ankle Vascular Index
Authors: Shirai Kohji , Hitsumoto Takashi , Sato Shuji , Takahashi Mao , Saiki Atsuhito , Nagayama Daiji , Ohira Masahiro , Takahara Akira , Shimizu Kazuhiro
Published: November 2023

A warning sign for impending cardiovascular events is not fully established. In the process of plaque rupture, the formation of vulnerable plaque is important, and oxidized cholesterols play an important role in its progression. Furthermore, the significance of vasa vasorum penetrating the medial smooth muscle layer and being rich in atheromatous lesions should be noted. The cardio-ankle vascular index (CAVI) is a new arterial stiffness index of the arterial tree from the origin of the aorta to the ankle. The CAVI reflects functional stiffness, in addition to structural stiffness. The rapid rise in the CAVI means medial smooth muscle cell contraction and strangling vasa vasorum. A rapid rise in the CAVI in people after a big earthquake, following a high frequency of cardiovascular events has been reported. There are several cases that showed a rapid rise in the CAVI a few weeks or months before suffering cardiovascular events. To explain these sequences of events, we proposed a hypothesis: a rapid rise in the CAVI means medial smooth muscle contraction, strangling vasa vasorum, leading to ischemia and the necrosis of vulnerable plaque, and then the plaque ruptures. In individuals having a high CAVI, further rapid rise in the CAVI might be a warning sign for impending cardiovascular events. In such cases, treatments to decrease the CAVI better be taken soon.
Health-Related Quality of Life after Pediatric Traumatic Brain Injury: A Quantitative Comparison between Children’s and Parents’ Perspectives of the QOLIBRI-KID/ADO Questionnaire
Authors: Cunitz Katrin , Holloway Ivana , Harzendorf Anne , Greving Sven , Zeldovich Marina , Krenz Ugne , Timmermann Dagmar , Koerte Inga K. , Bonfert Michaela Veronika , Berweck Steffen , Kieslich Matthias , Brockmann Knut , Roediger Maike , Buchheim Anna , Andelic Nada , Lendt Michael , Staebler Michael , Muehlan Holger , von Steinbuechel Nicole
Published: November 2023

Pediatric health-related quality of life (HRQoL) as a measure of subjective wellbeing and functioning has received increasing attention over the past decade. HRQoL in children and adolescents following pediatric traumatic brain injury (pTBI) has been poorly studied, and performing adequate measurements in this population is challenging. This study compares child/adolescent and parent reports of HRQoL following pTBI using the newly developed Quality of Life after Brain Injury in Children and Adolescents (QOLIBRI-KID/ADO) questionnaire. Three hundred dyads of 8–17-year-old children/adolescents and their parents were included in the study. The parent–child agreement, estimated using intraclass correlation coefficients and Cohen’s κ, displayed poor to moderate concordance. Approximately two-fifths of parents (39.3%) tended to report lower HRQoL for their children/adolescents on the total QOLIBRI-KID/ADO score. At the same time, about one-fifth (21.3%) reported higher HRQoL Total scores for their children/adolescents. The best agreement for parents rating adolescents (aged 13–17 years) was found in terms of the Total score and the Cognition and Self scale scores. To date, parent-reported HRQoL has been the preferred choice in pediatric research after TBI. However, with a parent–child disagreement of approximately 60%, our results highlight the importance of considering self-reports for children/adolescents capable of answering or completing the HRQoL measures.
Public Policies Shaping Mexican Small Farmer Practices and Environmental Conservation: The Impacts of 28 Years of PROCAMPO (1994–2022) in the Yucatán Peninsula
Authors: Ramírez Lesly-Paola , Schmook Birgit , Mier y Terán Giménez Cacho Mateo , Calmé Sophie , Mendez-Medina Crisol
Published: November 2023

Conditional cash transfer (CCT) programs, generally viewed as policies to modernize and increase agricultural production and commercialization, also have social and environmental impacts. Among the first Mexican CCT programs, PROCAMPO is directed toward traditional agriculture and pays farmers for permanent cultivation, ignoring traditional fallow systems. It was implemented nationally in 1994 to counteract the effects of trade liberalization. Its objectives encompassed modernizing and improving agricultural competitiveness and environmental conservation. Here, we analyze PROCAMPO from the perspective of environmental conservation to understand its effects on agricultural practices and forest cover, specifically in the Yucatán Peninsula, where agriculture sustainability was previously achieved via an alternating cycle of multi-crop system (milpa) and forest. We performed an in-depth program analysis, reviewing 51 documents, including scientific literature, technical evaluations, and official records. Research consistently showed direct effects of PROCAMPO on agricultural practices resulting in extensive land use change, including a reduction in crop diversity and the elimination of traditional milpas and fallow. PROCAMPO has impacted conservation by causing high rates of deforestation. Our findings show the need to reorient the design and implementation of agricultural policy to increase agroecosystem resilience and ecological service provision to face climate change.
Antinociceptive Effect of Dendrobii caulis in Paclitaxel-Induced Neuropathic Pain in Mice
Authors: Park Keun Tae , Jeon Yong Jae , Kim Hyo In , Kim Woojin
Published: November 2023

Paclitaxel-induced neuropathic pain (PINP) is a serious adverse effect of chemotherapy. Dendrobii caulis (D. caulis) is a new food source used as herbal medicine in east Asia. We examined the antinociceptive effects of D. caulis extract on PINP and clarified the mechanism of action of transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 receptor (TRPV1) in the spinal cord. PINP was induced in male mice using multiple intraperitoneal injections of paclitaxel (total dose, 8 mg/kg). PINP was maintained from D10 to D21 when assessed for cold and mechanical allodynia. Oral administration of 300 and 500 mg/kg D. caulis relieved cold and mechanical allodynia. In addition, TRPV1 in the paclitaxel group showed increased gene and protein expression, whereas the D. caulis 300 and 500 mg/kg groups showed a significant decrease. Among various substances in D. caulis, vicenin-2 was quantified by high-performance liquid chromatography, and its administration (10 mg/kg, i.p.) showed antinociceptive effects similar to those of D. caulis 500 mg/kg. Administration of the TRPV1 antagonist capsazepine also showed antinociceptive effects similar to those of D. caulis, and D. caulis is thought to exhibit antinociceptive effects on PINP by modulating the spinal TRPV1.
Two Contributions to Rolling Contact Fatigue Testing Considering Different Diameters of Rail and Wheel Discs
Authors: Šmach Jiří , Halama Radim , Marek Martin , Šofer Michal , Kovář Libor , Matušek Petr
Published: November 2023

Scaled rolling contact fatigue tests, used to practically simulate the wear of the wheel and rail material under laboratory conditions, are typically classified into two categories. Tests in the first category use twin-disc stands, while the second group of test rigs use two discs of different diameters considering the rail disc as the larger one. The latter setup is closer to the real situation, but problems can occur with high contact pressures and tractions. The focus of this paper is on two main contributions. Firstly, a case study based on finite element analysis is presented, allowing the optimization of the specimen geometry for high contact pressures. Accumulated plastic deformation caused by cycling is responsible for abrupt lateral deformation, which requires the use of an appropriate cyclic plasticity model in the finite element analysis. In the second part of the study, two laser profilers are used to measure the dimensions of the specimen in real time during the rolling contact fatigue test. The proposed technique allows the changes in the specimen dimensions to be characterized during the test itself, and therefore does not require the test to be interrupted. By using real-time values of the specimen’s dimensional contours, it is possible to calculate an instantaneous value of the slip ratio or the contact path width.
A Comprehensive Investigation of BN and VC Reinforcements on the Properties of FSP AA6061 Composites
Authors: Moustafa Essam B. , Djouider Fathi , Alhawsawi Abdulsalam , Elmoujarkach Ezzat , Banoqitah Essam , Mohamed Samah S.
Published: November 2023

This present study investigated the impact of incorporating boron nitride (BN) and vanadium carbide (VC) reinforcements on various properties of friction stir processed (FSP) AA6061 alloy composites, focusing specifically on grain structure, thermal conductivity, electrical conductivity, and compressive strength. The findings indicate that VC more effectively refines the grain structure of the AA6061 alloy during FSP compared to BN. The inclusion of BN particles in the metal matrix composites resulted in a decrease in both thermal and electrical conductivity. In contrast, the addition of VC particles led to an increase in both thermal and electrical conductivity. The AA6061/VC composite material exhibited the highest thermal conductivity among all composites tested. The electrical conductivity of the hybrid-composite AA6061/30%BN+70%VC showed a slight reduction, measuring only 2.8% lower than the base alloy AA6061. The mono-composite AA6061/VC exhibited a marginal decrease in thermal conductivity, with a measured value only 7.5% lower than the conventional alloy AA6061. However, the mono-composite AA6061/BN displayed a more significant decline, exhibiting a loss of 14.7% and 13.9% in electrical and thermal conductivity, respectively. The composite material comprising 30% BN and 70% VC reinforcement demonstrated the highest compressive strength compared to all other tested composites. The observed percentage enhancement in the mechanical properties of mono and hybrid composites, compared to the parent AA6061 alloy, ranged from 17.1% to 31.5%.
Current Trends in Orthognathic Surgery
Authors: Zammit Domenick , Ettinger Russell E. , Sanati-Mehrizy Paymon , Susarla Srinivas M.
Published: November 2023

Orthognathic surgery has evolved significantly over the past century. Osteotomies of the midface and mandible are contemporaneously used to perform independent or coordinated movements to address functional and aesthetic problems. Specific advances in the past twenty years include increasing fidelity with computer-assisted planning, the use of patient-specific fixation, expanding indications for management of upper airway obstruction, and shifts in orthodontic-surgical paradigms. This review article serves to highlight the contemporary practice of orthognathic surgery.
Mycobacterium tuberculosis Resides in Macrophages in Laryngeal Tuberculosis: A Case Report
Authors: Achache Wafaa , Boualam Mahmoud A. , Cassir Nadim , Mimari Clémence , Poitrenaud Delphine , Mezouar Soraya , Mège Jean Louis , Drancourt Michel , Lepidi Hubert
Published: November 2023

Laryngeal tuberculosis is a rare form of extrapulmonary tuberculosis that questions the natural history of this infection. We report one such case in which a pathological examination of a laryngeal biopsy revealed granulomatous inflammation with caseous necrosis. Further investigations combining immunofluorescence detection of macrophages and in situ hybridization of Mycobacterium tuberculosis indicated the presence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tuberculosis) in laryngeal granulomatous inflammatory lesions. This observation suggests that the natural history of laryngeal tuberculosis does not differ from that of other forms, guiding early diagnosis in patients with laryngeal lesions to ensure appropriate check-ups and treatment.
Mini-Batch Alignment: A Deep-Learning Model for Domain Factor-Independent Feature Extraction for Wi-Fi–CSI Data
Authors: van Berlo Bram , Oerlemans Camiel , Marogna Francesca Luigia , Ozcelebi Tanir , Meratnia Nirvana
Published: November 2023

Unobtrusive sensing (device-free sensing) aims to embed sensing into our daily lives. This is achievable by re-purposing communication technologies already used in our environments. Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi) sensing, using Channel State Information (CSI) measurement data, seems to be a perfect fit for this purpose since Wi-Fi networks are already omnipresent. However, a big challenge in this regard is CSI data being sensitive to ‘domain factors’ such as the position and orientation of a subject performing an activity or gesture. Due to these factors, CSI signal disturbances vary, causing domain shifts. Shifts lead to the lack of inference generalization, i.e., the model does not always perform well on unseen data during testing. We present a domain factor-independent feature-extraction pipeline called ‘mini-batch alignment’. Mini-batch alignment steers a feature-extraction model’s training process such that it is unable to separate intermediate feature-probability density functions of input data batches seen previously from the current input data batch. By means of this steering technique, we hypothesize that mini-batch alignment (i) absolves the need for providing a domain label, (ii) reduces pipeline re-building and re-training likelihood when encountering latent domain factors, and (iii) absolves the need for extra model storage and training time. We test this hypothesis via a vast number of performance-evaluation experiments. The experiments involve both one- and two-domain-factor leave-out cross-validation, two open-source gesture-recognition datasets called SignFi and Widar3, two pre-processed input types called Doppler Frequency Spectrum (DFS) and Gramian Angular Difference Field (GADF), and several existing domain-shift mitigation techniques. We show that mini-batch alignment performs on a par with other domain-shift mitigation techniques in both position and orientation one-domain leave-out cross-validation using the Widar3 dataset and DFS as input type. When considering a memory-complexity-reduced version of the GADF as input type, mini-batch alignment shows hints of recuperating performance regarding a standard baseline model to the extent that no additional performance due to weight steering is lost in both one-domain-factor leave-out and two-orientation-domain-factor leave-out cross-validation scenarios. However, this is not enough evidence that the mini-batch alignment hypothesis is valid. We identified pitfalls leading up to the hypothesis invalidation: (i) lack of good-quality benchmark datasets, (ii) invalid probability distribution assumptions, and (iii) non-linear distribution scaling issues.
A Study of Current Socio-Technical Design Practices in the Industry 4.0 Context among Small, Medium, and Large Manufacturers in Minnesota and North Dakota
Authors: Roth Katherine , Farahmand Kambiz
Published: November 2023

The implementation of flexible work arrangements in the modern work environment has increased in recent years. Jointly optimizing social and technical factors within an organization is necessary for the development of hybrid work environments. This study describes insights gleaned from a survey issued to SMEs and large manufacturers in Minnesota and North Dakota. The survey design focused on socio-technical theory, digital maturity, organizational learning, responsible autonomy, leadership, communication strategies, and reduced work week schedules. Insights were provided as to how these critical factors support sustainability initiatives, such as reduced work week schedules. The research assesses strengths and weaknesses in the current socio-technical design of manufacturing organizations in Minnesota and North Dakota that work towards and against implementing reduced daily work hour goals.
Immunogenicity, Efficacy, and Safety of a Novel Synthetic Microparticle Pre-Erythrocytic Malaria Vaccine in Multiple Host Species
Authors: Powell Thomas , Tang Jie , Mitchell Robert , DeRome Mary , Jacobs Andrea , Palath Naveen , Cardenas Edwin , Yorke Michelle , Boyd James , Kaba Stephen , Nardin Elizabeth
Published: November 2023

We previously reported a protective antibody response in mice immunized with synthetic microparticle vaccines made using layer-by-layer fabrication (LbL-MP) and containing the conserved T1BT* epitopes from the P. falciparum circumsporozoite protein. To further optimize the vaccine candidate, a benchtop tangential flow filtration method (LbL-by-TFF) was developed and utilized to produce vaccine candidates that differed in the status of base layer crosslinking, inclusion of a TLR2 ligand in the antigenic peptide, and substitution of serine or alanine for an unpaired cysteine residue in the T* epitope. Studies in mice revealed consistent superiority of the Pam3Cys-modified candidates and a modest benefit of base layer crosslinking, as evidenced by higher and more persistent antibody titers (up to 18 months post-immunization), a qualitative improvement of T-cell responses toward a Th1 phenotype, and greater protection from live parasite challenges compared to the unmodified prototype candidate. Immunogenicity was also tested in a non-human primate model, the rhesus macaque. Base layer-crosslinked LbL-MP loaded with T1BT* peptide with or without covalently linked Pam3Cys elicited T1B-specific antibody responses and T1BT*-specific T-cell responses dominated by IFNγ secretion with lower levels of IL-5 secretion. The Pam3Cys-modified construct was more potent, generating antibody responses that neutralized wild-type P. falciparum in an in vitro hepatocyte invasion assay. IgG purified from individual macaques immunized with Pam3Cys.T1BT* LbL-MP protected naïve mice from challenges with transgenic P. berghei sporozoites that expressed the full-length PfCS protein, with 50–88% of passively immunized mice parasite-free for ≥15 days. Substitution of serine for an unpaired cysteine in the T* region of the T1BT* subunit did not adversely impact immune potency in the mouse while simplifying the manufacture of the antigenic peptide. In a Good Laboratory Practices compliant rabbit toxicology study, the base layer-crosslinked, Pam3Cys-modified, serine-substituted candidate was shown to be safe and immunogenic, eliciting parasite-neutralizing antibody responses and establishing the dose/route/regimen for a clinical evaluation of this novel synthetic microparticle pre-erythrocytic malaria vaccine candidate.
Analysis of approaches to measuring the efficiency of public finance in part of government expenditures
Authors: Tkachenko L. I.
Published: November 2023

The article presents reasoned evidence of the growth of public spending in the world over the past twenty years. Using the example of the government performance index, economic growth (GDP growth rate) and GDP per capita, the absence of a rigid relationship between the amount of government spending and management efficiency is shown. The category of efficiency in public finance is analyzed. The complexity and dubitability of this category is noted. Various approaches to efficiency analysis in economics are outlined. Cost-based, targeted and effective approaches to measuring and analyzing efficiency in public finance in terms of government spending are analyzed. The author's view on approaches to increasing the efficiency of government spending is presented.
The ecosystem of financial inclusion and its regulation
Authors: Lazareva I. E.
Published: November 2023

The article examines the essence of the concept of financial inclusion from the perspective of the formation of an ecosystem of interdependent determinants of its provision, substantiates the role of regulation as an important prerequisite for ensuring financial inclusion. Proved that for the effective formation and development of the financial inclusion ecosystem, it is necessary to create and support an adaptive regulatory environment capable of ensuring full-fledged legislative protection of creditors' and depositors' rights, protection of property rights of financial services market participants, and information security. Identified a set of regulatory measures necessary to ensure a high level of financial inclusion in the country.
Disruption as a Way Forward: Resilience and Adaptation to Prepare Bakery Students for the Future
Authors: Remacle Noel
Published: November 2023

Ever since the first humans accidently mixed grains with water to ferment dough, the bakery profession has embraced social, cultural and political disruptions to advance its understanding and practices. During the last five years, the Level 5 Bakery Programme at Toi Ohomai has employed project-based learning (PBL) pedagogies to create real-world learning environments and provide baking students with 21st-century skills. In March 2020, Covid-19 created significant disruptions to this learning environment, with the programme and its learners being forced to quickly pivot their traditional practices to ensure contemporary and pedagogically responsive learning continued. Here, I discuss anecdotal findings around PBL and the work-ready preparedness of bakery students in a post-Covid landscape, with broader implications for PBL environments and responsive pedagogy.
School-Based Learning in Initial Teacher Education: An Authentic Partnership
Authors: McMinn Melissa , Maksimov Igor , Mepham Paora , Price Kirsten , Madhar Vanessa , Brice Lynne
Published: November 2023

While practicum experiences are a part of most initial teacher education programmes, Open Polytechnic | Te Pūkenga recognises successful entry into the profession lies in authentic partnerships between the initial teacher education provider and schools. Our programmes enable partner schools to contribute to the delivery of initial teacher education through school-based learning experiences, while enabling pre-service teachers to contribute to their school community. This partnership model is responsive to a strong sector drive to ensure beginning teachers enter the profession ‘work-ready’ with extensive practical experience alongside theoretical knowledge, and offers benefits to pre-service teachers and schools. This practice paper describes an authentic partner-driven co-construction of the development and delivery of a fundamental element of the new programmes. School-based learning experiences provide opportunities to observe and critique theoretical knowledge in authentic and situated practice.
Understanding the Development of Dynamic Informal Capabilities in Enhancing Project-Based Assessments and Facilitating Programme Development
Authors: Zhukov Yury , Dai Bing
Published: November 2023

Within the tertiary education system of Aotearoa New Zealand, polytechnics are positioned as institutions with a focus on applied, experiential and employment-oriented learning. Considering the pace of change in the workplace, it is highly unlikely that educational programmes that develop and capture only formal learning outcomes can effectively prepare work-ready graduates. Capitalising on informal achievement and recognising competencies outside of the learning outcomes or the graduate outcomes is critical. The goal of this research is to explore the transitioning of emergent spontaneous demonstrations of competencies into facilitated competencies to enhance the consistency of informal achievement across different courses and use them as a mechanism for versatile adaptation to the job-market needs. In this case, spontaneous informal achievements are defined as capabilities demonstrated by students that had not been planned for or expected in the formal programme documents, whereas the facilitated informal achievements are planned through course design, yet not recognised in the learning outcomes for the programme (hence, informal). The data collected for the case study includes multiple data sets from ten practical student-team projects, which were implemented in two study blocks in 2020 as part of Leadership in Action, an undergraduate course in the Applied Management programme of studies at Otago Polytechnic Auckland International Campus (OPAIC). The analysis found that across all ten projects the students demonstrated a total of 36 different competencies, with 17 formal competencies, 13 informal facilitated competencies, and six informal spontaneous competencies. The research explored the key competency areas and suggested a workflow model to implement a culture of recognising informal achievements in vocational education organisations. The implementation of the workflow model is expected to increase levels of student engagement and satisfaction with project work, and allow them to develop skills and competencies that would otherwise be overlooked in their formal programme of studies.
The Nexus Between ESG Disclosures, Firm Performance and Covid-19: An Aotearoa New Zealand Perspective
Authors: Puri Swati Kumaria
Published: November 2023

This paper investigates the impact of environmental, social and governance disclosures (ESGD) on the corporate performance of Aotearoa New Zealand companies during the Covid-19 pandemic. The study sample consists of quarterly data for publicly listed New Zealand companies from 2017 to 2021, with 2017–2019 as the pre-Covid-19 period and 2020–2021 as the Covid-19 period. Correlation analysis and panel regression models are used to test hypotheses and assess objectives. The findings show that during Covid-19, there was no significant relationship between ESG scores (ESGS) and financial performance. However, after adding financial slack as a moderating variable, the relationship between ESGS and financial performance became significant, which suggests that when companies have surplus funds, they invest in ESG-related activities, which enhances both their performance and reputation. This study is helpful to academics, firms and policymakers interested in understanding the impact of sustainable practices on businesses. Furthermore, the findings provide insight into initiatives that regulatory authorities might take to improve ESGD and reporting among New Zealand companies for long-term value creation.
El buey. O el archivo latente de Mansilla
Authors: Contreras Sandra
Published: November 2023

La profusión y dispersión de las publicaciones de Lucio V. Mansilla en la prensa alimentaron la idea (consolidada entre historiadores y críticos en el temprano siglo XX y de algún modo reforzada por la periódica pérdida de materiales por parte del autor) de que la reunión de su obra completa era imposible, si no también innecesaria. La pulsión de archivo, sin embargo, atraviesa la obra de Mansilla: materialmente, en la práctica de edición y en la práctica de la escritura como anotación; imaginariamente, en la intuición de la escritura como tecnología de archivación; idealmente, en la concepción de sus causeries como “monumento arqueológico”. Propongo aquí una lectura de estas tres dimensiones del archivo en la escritura de Mansilla. El marco de la lectura está dado por la tardía e irónica reflexión del propio Mansilla sobre las posibilidades de edición de sus obras completas y por nuestra interrogación sobre su archivo como fuerza latente.
The effect of macroeconomy towards the infrastructure, utilities, and transportation sector’s stock return in the Indonesian Stock Exchange
Authors: Simatupang Frido Saritua
Published: November 2023

This study aims to identify the effect of macroeconomic variables on stock returns, where macroeconomic fluctuations can affect stock prices and have an impact on stock returns. The macroeconomic variables used in this study are inflation, interest rates (BI rate), and the Rupiah exchange rate against the US Dollar. The population used by researchers is the Infrastructure, Utilities, and Transportation sector in the Indonesian Stock Exchange with a population of 60 companies. The sampling technique used was purposive sampling in order to obtain 37 sample companies. The data processing technique that is used is panel data. The results showed that simultaneously there was a macroeconomic influence on stock returns, and partially there was a significant negative effect between inflation and exchange rates on stock returns, while the interest rate (BI rate) had no effect on stock returns.
Implicações clínicas e tratamento odontológico para pacientes portadores de Anemia Falciforme
Authors: Silva Mayara Cavalcante , Cabral Maria Cecília de Macedo , Medeiros Michelle Leão Bittencourt Brandão , Batista Luiz Henrique Carvalho
Published: November 2023

Este trabalho tem por objetivo avaliar as implicações clínicas no atendimento odontológico em pacientes portadores de anemia falciforme. A literatura apontou que intervenção odontológica para pacientes portadores de anemia falciforme deve ser evitada durante a fase aguda da doença, a não ser procedimentos paliativos e emergenciais, com o intuito de diminuir o risco de dor e infecção para o tratamento. Para consultas odontológicas ambulatoriais recomenda-se que sejam realizados procedimentos de curta duração, preferencialmente no período da manhã. Logo, as evidências apontaram que há uma proporção bastante prevalente de pessoas com anemia falciforme no Brasil e no mundo, ainda não existe um tratamento específico no âmbito odontológico para a patologia, tornando necessária a inclusão de planos preventivos, a fim de diminuir intercorrências clínicas no atendimento desse paciente.
AAV for Gene Therapy in Ocular Diseases: Progress and Prospects
Authors: He Xiaoyu , Fu Yidian , Ma Liang , Yao Yizheng , Ge Shengfang , Yang Zhi , Fan Xianqun
Published: November 2023

Owing to the promising therapeutic effect and one-time treatment advantage, gene therapy may completely change the management of eye diseases, especially retinal diseases. Adeno-associated virus (AAV) is considered one of the most promising viral gene delivery tools because it can infect various types of tissues and is considered as a relatively safe gene delivery vector. The eye is one of the most popular organs for gene therapy, since its limited volume is suitable for small doses of AAV stably transduction. Recently, an increasing number of clinical trials of AAV-mediated gene therapy are underway. This review summarizes the biological functions of AAV and its application in the treatment of various ocular diseases, as well as the characteristics of different AAV delivery routes in clinical applications. Here, the latest research progresses in AAV-mediated gene editing and silencing strategies to modify that the genetic ocular diseases are systematically outlined, especially by base editing and prime editing. We discuss the progress of AAV in ocular optogenetic therapy. We also summarize the application of AAV-mediated gene therapy in animal models and the difficulties in its clinical transformation.
Phase-Matched High-Harmonic Generation under Nonadiabatic Conditions: Model and Experiment
Authors: Chen Yudong , Fu Zongyuan , Li Baochang , Peng Sainan , Zhu Bingbing , Fan Guangyu , Liu Yi , Ding Chengyuan , Jin Cheng , Tao Zhensheng
Published: November 2023

Nonadiabatic phase matching of high-harmonic generation (HHG) driven by few-cycle laser pulses is essential for extending harmonic energy and generating isolated attosecond pulses. However, understanding nonadiabatic HHG is challenging due to the complex interplay of various optical phases driven by temporally and spatially varying laser fields. Theoretical calculations typically rely on computationally demanding 3-dimensional simulations, which can make it difficult to extract the essential features of nonadiabatic HHG. In this work, we develop a computationally efficient 2-dimensional model that directly considers various phase contributions of HHG. Our model can well explain the experimentally observed pressure- and intensity-dependent behaviors of different harmonic orders. By appropriately parameterizing the single-atom response, our model can also estimate the variation of HHG spectra under different driving conditions. Our model can provide an efficient tool for the design and optimization of HHG-based applications.
The Convergence of Some Spectral Characteristics on the Convergent Series
Authors: OTKUN ÇEVİK Elif
Published: November 2023

In this study, convergence properties of spectral, numerical and Crawford gap functions via convergences of Hilbert space operator series in difference and ratio cases are investigated. Obtained results have been applied to some classes continuous functions of the operators.
Analisis Faktor Indeks Harga Konsumen (IHK) Menurut Kelompok Pengeluaran yang Mempengaruhi Laju Inflasi Provinsi Lampung Tahun 2020
Authors: Aprianti Ayu , Edriani Tiara Shofi
Published: November 2023

The Consumer Price Index (CPI) is used as the basis for calculating regional inflation rates. The balance of the CPI variable by Expenditure Group (CPI-EG) needs to be considered so that it does not have a major impact on the inflation rate. The purpose of this study is to determine the CPI-EG variable that affects the inflation rate in Lampung Province using the factor analysis method through the extraction technique of Principal Component Analysis. Factor analysis aims to reduce the CPI-EG variable into a factor with a smaller number. Based on the result of factor analysis there are 3 CPI-EG variables that were reduced because they did not meet the feasibility test and 8 CPI-EG variables that could be analyzed further. These variables form 1 factor which is named the Community Supporting Needs Factor. These factors can explain 79,304% of the total variance. Of the 8 CPI-EG variables, the Health Variable is the most dominant effect on the inflation rate in Lampung Province with a strong correlation of 0,980. This inflation rate is due to public health needs due to the increase in Covid-19 cases in Lampung Province in 2020.
Bilangan Dominasi-Lokasi pada Graf Hasil Kali Operasi Comb Graf Lintasan dan Graf Siklus
Authors: Pribadi Aswan Anggun , Dhani Muhammad , Prestanti Anastasia Lia Dwi
Published: November 2023

Dominating set of graph G is subset D⊆V(G) which for every vertex v∈V(G)\D those vertices has neighbour in D. If for every pairs of vertice x and y their neighbour set different than we called D locating-dominating set. As for the minimum cardinality of possible dominating set of G is called the locating-dominating number of G. We determine the value of the locating-dominating number for comb product path (Pn) and cycle (Cn) graph.
Penerapan Algoritma Batchelor-Wilkins dalam Pengklasteran Graf
Authors: Nadeak Christyan Tamaro
Published: November 2023

Batchelor-Wilkins Algorithm is a simple and heuristic clustering algorithm used when the number of classes is unknown. In this paper we will use Batchelor-Wilkins algorithm in graph clustering, specifically a Banana Tree Graph B(n,k), a graph obtained by connecting one leaf of each of n copies of a complete bipartite graph K_{1,k-1} to a single root vertex.