bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effects of 15 days of dosing with placebo, sufotidine 600 mg nocte or sufotidine 600 mg twice daily upon 24‐hour intragastric acidity and 24‐hour plasma gastrin
Authors: Rogers M. J. , Holmfield J. H. M. , Primrose J. N. , Johnston D.
Published: December 2024

The acid inhibitory effect of sufotidine, a potent, long‐lasting, competitive H2‐receptor antagonist, was studied in 12 healthy males in a double‐blind, randomized, three‐way cross‐over study of the effect of placebo, sufotidine 600 mg node and sufotidine 600 mg b.d. given over 15 days.

On day 1 and 15 of dosing with each regimen, each subject's 24‐h ambulatory intragastric acidity was measured by radiotelemetry and 24‐h plasma gastrin profiles were derived from hourly venous blood samples.

Acid suppression was calculated as the decrease in the area under the curve of hydrogen ion activity vs time from that observed on placebo, and 24‐h plasma gastrin calculated as the area under the curve of plasma gastrin concentration vs time.

Twenty‐four hour intragastric acidity during the fifteenth day of dosing with sufotidine 600 mg node and sufotidine 600 mg b.d. did not differ significantly, but on the first and fifteenth day of dosing nocturnal acidity was decreased to a greater extent by sufotidine 600 mg nocte than sufotidine 600 mg b.d. (P < 0.005). After 15 days, the acid suppression afforded by sufotidine 600 mg b.d. was significantly attenuated (P < 0.0005); this was associated with a rise in 24‐h plasma gastrin (P < 0.001).

Thus, tolerance to the acid inhibitory effect of H2‐receptor antagonists exists and is of rapid onset. We suggest that tolerance is mediated by the temporally associated rise in 24‐h plasma gastrin, but we cannot exclude the possibility that other mechanisms, such as up‐regulation of H2‐receptors, also play a part.
3D‐printed porous mullite lattice structures by hybrid direct ink writing of silicone suspension‐emulsions
Authors: Diamanti Valeria , Elsayed Hamada , Bernardo Enrico
Published: December 2024

Silicones added with nano‐sized alumina particles are already known as starting materials for phase pure mullite ceramics, synthesized at quite low temperatures. The present paper deals with a fundamental upgrade, based on a novel suspension‐emulsion concept, for the easy fabrication of highly porous lattice structures. An aqueous suspension of γ‐Al2O3 nanoparticles in water was first distributed as emulsion within an “oily phase,” consisting of a silicone/acrylates blend, with the help of a surfactant. The mixture was later employed to fabricate highly porous structures (∼80% open porosity), by direct ink writing, that is, an extrusion‐based 3D printing technology requiring specific rheological behavior of the feedstock ink. Finally, the structures were rapidly stabilized through a photo‐polymerization step (configuring a form of “hybrid” direct ink writing). The presence of water also allowed the application of a freeze‐curing procedure, for a second series of samples. The abundant water vapor release from the starting mixtures, upon firing (up to 1300°C), led to structures with enhanced pore interconnectivity. The freeze‐curing protocol proved beneficial to the homogeneity of pore distribution and to the achievement of high strength‐to‐density ratios.
A Zero Serial Cross‐Correlation Test Before Fitting Heteroscedasticity
Authors: Ma Yaolan , Chen Xiaohong , Peng Liang , Zhang Rongmao
Published: December 2024

Many statistical inferences for a multivariate innovation‐based copula time series model rely on the serial independence of innovation vectors after filtering the conditional means and conditional covariance. Zero (respectively nonzero) serial cross‐correlations for the heteroscedastic noises before filtering the conditional covariance may suggest the use of univariate (respectively multivariate) GARCH models. This paper develops a zero serial cross‐correlation test for the heteroscedastic noises with heavy tails before fitting a multivariate heteroscedasticity model. Applications to exchange rates and mutual fund returns show that this critical assumption could be problematic sometimes and conducting such a test is necessary before building and using a multivariate innovation‐based copula time series model.
Varieties of anti‐imperialism in modern China, 1890s–1920s
Authors: Jiaying Zhou
Published: December 2024

The modern critique of imperialism as a political economical system first emerged in Britian in late 19th century and quickly developed along two major paths: a capitalist critique and Marxian socialist one. Both critiques reached China during this period, but the Marxian socialist interpretation proved especially attractive to Chinese activists and intellectuals in part because of the influence of the Third Communist International (Comintern) but also because of the socialists' ready embrace of the linkage between anti‐imperialism and national and social revolution. This article examines the varieties of anti‐imperialist thought in late Qing and early Republican China to explain the distinctiveness of the Chinese response to the global problem of foreign imperialism in the early twentieth century, stressing the critical role played by the Chinese understandings of the nation in the process and explaining why and how the socialist anti‐imperialist critique proved more persuasive in the Chinese context.
Deodorant Spray‐Induced Cold Burns: A Case of Child Abuse
Authors: Guez Sophie , Tambuzzi Stefano , Barbara Giussy , Micci Laila Giorgia , Marchisio Paola , Somigliana Edgardo , Candia Domenico D. I. , Cattaneo Cristina , Cavalli Riccardo
Published: December 2024

Munchausen syndrome by proxy is extremely difficult to diagnose. A case is presented of a 17‐month‐old girl who repeatedly sustained cold burns caused by a spray deodorant and inflicted by her mother. A comprehensive medical investigation, including blood assessments, skin biopsies and imaging were inconclusive. The pivotal finding for the diagnosis was the detection of aluminum at high concentrations in the skin swab specimens utilizing mass spectrometry.
Successful Kidney Transplantation for Bilateral Renal Hypoplasia With Ebstein Disease
Authors: Kimura Sho , Nagatomo Yusaku , Nishiyama Kei , Nagata Hazumu , Ohga Shouichi
Published: December 2024

Background

Patients with renal hypoplasia are often associated with congenital heart disease (CHD). During the perioperative period of kidney transplantation (KTx), sufficient circulation volume is required to maintain renal blood flow in the donor kidney. However, little is known about the indication and management of KTx in patients with CHD who require precise hemodynamic assessment during transplantation. We report a pediatric case of successful living‐donor KTx for renal hypoplasia with unrepaired Ebstein disease.

Methods

To ensure adequate blood flow to the donor kidney during the perioperative period, the hemodynamic response to rapid administration of saline solution was evaluated in catheterization using the concept of circulatory equilibrium.

Results

The patient received 500 mL/m2 of saline solution in 30 min, resulting in increases in RA pressure from 6 to 10 mmHg and PACW pressure from 10 to 13 mmHg, whereas CI decreased from 5.99 to 5.33 L/min/m2. These findings suggested that the patient was already in a volume overload state and required to shift the output curve upward rather than additional overloading to increase CI. Inotropic agents were used aggressively during the perioperative period of KTx to ensure adequate blood flow to the donor kidney.

Conclusions

Maintaining adequate blood flow to the donor kidney is crucial during the perioperative period of KTx in patients with cardiac issues. Evaluating the response to saline solution administration using the concept of circulatory equilibrium is useful for understanding hemodynamic status and determining how to appropriately increase cardiac output.
Biological amelioration of water stress in rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) by exopolysaccharides‐producing Pseudomonas protegens ML15
Authors: Ajijah Nur , Fiodor Angelika , Dziewit Lukasz , Pranaw Kumar
Published: December 2024

Rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) is a globally significant oilseed crop with high economic value. However, water deficit significantly limits its growth and productivity. Exopolysaccharides (EPS)‐producing bacteria offer a promising strategy to counteract drought stress, leveraging their high water retention capabilities and plant growth‐promoting (PGP) properties. This study was conducted to characterize the PGP traits of selected EPS‐producing bacteria strains and evaluate its efficacy in enhancing rapeseed resilience under drought conditions. Among five EPS‐producing bacteria evaluated, Pseudomonas protegens ML15 was selected for its best performance. This strain demonstrated a range of plant growth‐promoting traits, such as the solubilization of phosphate, potassium, and zinc, alongside the production of ammonia, siderophores, and proline. It also exhibited antioxidant activity and the ability to form biofilms, even under water‐stressed conditions. Inoculation of rapeseed with strain ML15 increased germination percentages and seedling length. Notably, whether rapeseed plants were subjected to drought‐induced stress or maintained under normal conditions, treatment with P. protegens ML15 inoculation consistently improved plant length and overall biomass. Under drought‐stressed conditions, inoculated plants exhibited reduced malondialdehyde levels and increased vegetation indices, chlorophyll, protein, proline, and phenolic content. They also showed enhanced activity of antioxidant enzymes, such as catalase and peroxidase, compared to uninoculated rapeseed plants. These findings underscore the potential of EPS‐producing bacteria like P. protegens ML15 to mitigate water stress in plants, providing ecological and economic benefits that support agricultural sustainability.
Melatonin enhances metal oxide nanoparticles tolerance in rice seedlings through dual regulation of antioxidant defense and photosynthetic efficiency
Authors: Gharib Ahmed , Su Yanze , Zuo Zhihao , Chen Rujia , Wang Hanyao , Tao Tianyun , Chuan Mingli , Bu Qing , Luo Yanmo , Li Yaoqing , Wang Shuting , Hua Yu , Ji Yi , Ding Jianheng , Liu Wei , He Shuihua , Li Pengcheng , Xu Yang , Xu Chenwu , Lu Yue , Yang Zefeng
Published: December 2024

The growing utilization of metal oxide nanoparticles (MONPs) presents novel and potential hazards to plants. However, the impacts of MONPs on plants and the mechanisms underlying their tolerance to MONPs remain unclear. In this study, we demonstrated that both CuO and ZnO nanoparticles hindered plant growth and triggered oxidative damage in rice seedlings. The role of melatonin in rice tolerance to MONPs was elucidated through a comprehensive analysis of OsCOMT mutant and overexpression plants, which showed melatonin deficiency and sufficiency, respectively. Our results revealed that the melatonin‐deficient OsCOMT mutant plants exhibited hypersensitivity to MONPs, while the melatonin‐sufficient OsCOMT overexpression plants showed enhanced MONPs tolerance. Physiological assessments further indicated that melatonin counteracted rice oxidative damage triggered by MONPs by increasing the activities of antioxidative enzymes, including superoxide dismutase, peroxidase, catalase, and glutathione reductase. Moreover, melatonin was found to foster rice growth under MONP stress by positively regulating the maximum photochemical efficiency, reducing non‐photochemical fluorescence quenching, and promoting the biosynthesis of sucrose and starch. These findings not only highlight the hazardous effects of MONPs on plants, but also underscore the pivotal role of melatonin in bolstering plant resilience against MONPs.
Evolving patterns of first blood product use in trauma in the era of hemorrhage control resuscitation
Authors: Asif Maryam , Haider Safee U. , Liu Zhinan , Stansbury Lynn G. , Hess John R.
Published: December 2024

Background

We reviewed trauma blood use at our US regional trauma center 2011–2022—including PROPPR trial participation 2012–2014 and initiation of whole blood availability in 2019—to assess the implementation of early coagulation support in acute trauma care.

Study Design/Methods

We identified all acute trauma patients recorded by our Trauma Registry as arriving at our large US regional Level 1 trauma center from April 6, 2011 (Blood Bank opening) through December 2022. Patient cohort data were then linked directly to Blood Bank final‐product‐issue date/time data to identify patients receiving any blood product in the first 24 h of care and then, specifically, at least one unit of Red Blood Cells (RBC), Plasma, or Whole Blood (WB). Results were binned as: “RBC first,” “Plasma first,” “Both at the same time,” or “WB first.”

Results

Over the study period, 73,634 acute trauma patients received care, and 12,927 received at least one unit of a blood product. The proportion receiving plasma or a combination of plasma and RBCs as the initial transfusion increased after 2015 from 33% to 66%, while the proportion receiving packed RBCs alone decreased from 57% to about 18%. Since its introduction in 2019, the use of WB as the first product has grown to 20%.

Conclusions

This retrospective cohort study documents the increasing use of plasma and now WB as initial products issued in trauma resuscitation, reflecting acceptance of coagulation support as the standard of care and the use of hemostatic resuscitation protocols.
Biotinylation of human platelets is compatible with pathogen inactivation treatment and cold storage for clinical studies
Authors: Muret Charlotte , Crettaz David , Martin Agathe , Aliotta Alessandro , Bertaggia Calderara Debora , Alberio Lorenzo , Prudent Michel
Published: December 2024

Background

Production of platelet concentrates (PCs) involves several steps that significantly affect platelet behavior. To gain a deeper understanding of how storage conditions impact donor platelet recirculation and functionality post‐transfusion, ex vivo platelet labeling is a feasible approach. However, before pursuing clinical investigations of platelet recirculation and function in humans, we aimed to determine the effects of pathogen inactivation technology (PIT) and storage conditions (4°C vs. room temperature [RT]) on phenotype and function of biotinylated platelets compared to conventional PIT PCs for transfusion.

Methods

Nine PCs were prepared in 61% additive solution from 45 buffy coats (five buffy coats each). A pool‐and‐split of three units was used to prepare three equivalent PCs: two labeled with biotin and stored at RT or 4°C, and one without labeling and stored at RT. All PCs were then treated by PIT (amotosalen/UVA) and stored for 14 days. Labeling efficiency, platelet concentration, metabolic parameters, aggregation response (ADP, collagen, co‐aggregation with epinephrine), and platelet phenotype (CD42b, CD62‐P, phosphatidylserine) at the basal stage and upon stimulation (ADP or TRAP‐6) were performed.

Results

Labeling efficiency of PIT and 4°C PCs was stable over 14 days of storage. Differences in platelet function and phenotype were mainly due to the storage temperature and not the biotinylation process. Phenotypes at baseline or after stimulation were equivalent in biotin‐positive and biotin‐negative platelets.

Conclusion

Biotin‐labeled platelets can effectively enable investigation of the effects of PIT and storage temperature for clinical studies. This method shows great potential for improving platelet transfusion knowledge.
Computed tomographic findings in 25 cats with ear canal neoplasia
Authors: Wisnoski Megan , Gremillion Christine , Levine Gwendolyn , Coy Cambridge , Veitch Kaylynn , Waller Kenneth , Griffin John F.
Published: December 2024

Computed tomography is commonly used to evaluate feline otic disease; however, published studies characterizing the CT appearance of ear canal neoplasia are limited. The purpose of this multicenter, retrospective, secondary analysis, cross‐sectional study was to describe the CT features of histopathologically confirmed feline ear canal neoplasia. The CT studies of 25 cats with ear canal neoplasia were prospectively scored by consensus of two veterinary radiologists. Recorded parameters were the presence of focal or multifocal tissue enlargement (mass/masses), lesion shape, location of the center of mass, attenuation characteristics, features of contrast enhancement, involvement of otic structures, calvarial and brain changes, changes of nearby structures, and lymphadenopathy. There was a significant overlap of CT findings between cats with malignant ceruminous gland neoplasia, ceruminous gland adenoma, and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Ceruminous gland adenoma was typically homogeneous in attenuation with homogeneous contrast enhancement and no intralesional fluid accumulations (IFAs) or involvement of adjacent structures. In contrast, SCC consistently had heterogeneous attenuation, heterogeneous contrast enhancement, IFAs, and involvement/invasion of adjacent structures. Malignant ceruminous gland neoplasia had variable attenuation and pattern of contrast enhancement with occasional IFAs and occasional involvement/invasion of adjacent structures. Knowledge of these imaging features will inform the creation of prioritized differential diagnosis lists. However, a biopsy is required to confirm the diagnosis.
Lumbosacral transitional vertebrae in small‐breed dogs: Prevalence, classification, and characteristics
Authors: Kim Uhjin , Chang Jinhwa , Yoon Kwangyong , Kim Byungjin , Ban Jiyoung , Hyun Sang‐Hwan , Chang Dongwoo , Lee Namsoon
Published: December 2024

The lumbosacral transitional vertebra (LTV) is an abnormally formed vertebra that can be associated with cauda equina syndrome, lumbosacral (LS) degeneration, and pelvic rotation. However, there is little information on LTV in small‐breed dogs, and no studies have investigated the association between LTV and LS diseases or degenerative changes in the coxofemoral joints. The purpose of this multicenter, retrospective, and cross‐sectional study was to determine the prevalence of LTV in small‐breed dogs (<10 kg), classify the type of LTV, and identify its association with degenerative changes in the LS and coxofemoral joints using CT images. Lumbosacral transitional vertebrae were divided into four types based on their morphological characteristics. Lumbosacral transitional vertebrae were detected in 127 of 812 dogs (15.6 %). The prevalence of LTV was higher in French bulldogs (33.3%), Schnauzers (33.3%), and Dachshunds (25%) than in other breeds. Type 2 was the most common, with morphological variations in the transverse processes, and 36.2% of the LTV group showed multiple types of LTV. Dogs with LTV tended to have LS spondylosis deformans (OR, 2.8) and pelvic rotation (OR, 6.4) compared with dogs without LTV. Type 4 LTV was significantly associated with pelvic rotation (p < 0.0001). This is the first study to investigate the prevalence, characteristics, and characteristics of LTV in small‐breed dogs using CT images. The results of this study may contribute to a better understanding of this congenital anomaly in small‐breed dogs. CT can evaluate LTV, which could predispose a dog to LS spondylosis deformans or pelvic rotation.
On Fuchs' problem for finitely generated abelian groups: The small torsion case
Authors: Del Corso I. , Stefanello L.
Published: December 2024

A classical problem, raised by Fuchs in 1960, asks to classify the abelian groups which are groups of units of some rings. In this paper, we consider the case of finitely generated abelian groups, solving Fuchs' problem for such groups with the additional assumption that the torsion subgroups are small, for a suitable notion of small related to the Prüfer rank. As a concrete instance, we classify for each the realisable groups of the form . Our tools require an investigation of the adjoint group of suitable radical rings of odd prime power order appearing in the picture, giving conditions under which the additive and adjoint groups are isomorphic. In the last section, we also deal with some groups of order a power of 2, proving that the groups of the form are realisable if and only if or is a Fermat prime.
Single-dose tolerability and pharmacokinetics of leritrelvir in Chinese patients with hepatic impairment and healthy matched controls
Authors: Li Cuiyun , Mai Jiajia , Wu Min , Zhang Hong , Li Xiaojiao , Li Haijun , Li Youyun , Ding Yanhua
Published: December 2024

This study evaluated the safety and pharmacokinetics (PK) of a single dose of leritrelvir, a novel inhibitor of 3-chymotrypsin-like cysteine protease (3CLpro), in patients with hepatic impairment versus healthy participants with normal hepatic function. Eight participants with mild (Child–Pugh A) hepatic impairment, eight with moderate (Child–Pugh B) hepatic impairment, and eight healthy matched control participants were enrolled in this open-label, parallel clinical trial. After administration of leritrelvir of 400 mg, PK parameters were calculated and compared across groups. In total, 24 participants were enrolled and completed the study. Leritrelvir was generally well tolerated, with no serious adverse events or deaths reported during the study. Compared to the group with normal hepatic function, the geometric least-squares mean ratios (90% confidence intervals) for
C
max
, AUC

0-
t

, and AUC
0-∞
of leritrelvir in participants with mild hepatic impairment were 96.9% (69.3%, 135%), 92.2% (69.6%, 122%), and 92.1% (69.7%, 122%), respectively. For moderate hepatic impairment, the corresponding ratios were 91.6% (61.7%, 136%), 113% (80.0%, 160%), and 113% (80.0%, 159%). Leritrelvir exposures were comparable among the three groups. Overall, there was no clinically relevant difference in leritrelvir exposure in participants with hepatic impairment compared to normal controls. No dose adjustment is required for leritrelvir in patients with mild or moderate hepatic impairment.

CLINICAL TRIALS

This study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov as
NCT06161259
.
The transcriptional regulator Lrp activates the expression of genes involved in the biosynthesis of tilimycin and tilivalline enterotoxins in
Klebsiella oxytoca
Authors: De la Cruz Miguel A. , Valdez-Salazar Hilda A. , Rodríguez-Valverde Diana , Mejia-Ventura Santa , Robles-Leyva Nayely , Siqueiros-Cendón Tania , Rascón-Cruz Quintín , León-Montes Nancy , Soria-Bustos Jorge , Chimal-Cázares Fernando , Rosales-Reyes Roberto , Cedillo María L. , Yañez-Santos Jorge A. , Ibarra J. Antonio , Torres Javier , Girón Jorge A. , Fox James G. , Ares Miguel A.
Published: December 2024

The toxigenic
Klebsiella oxytoca
strains secrete tilymicin and tilivalline enterotoxins, which cause antibiotic-associated hemorrhagic colitis. Both enterotoxins are non-ribosomal peptides synthesized by enzymes encoded in two divergent operons clustered in a pathogenicity island. The transcriptional regulator Lrp (

l

eucine-responsive

r

egulatory

p

rotein) controls the expression of several bacterial genes involved in virulence. In this work, we have uncovered novel findings that have significant implications. We determined the transcriptional expression of
aroX
and
npsA
, the first genes of each tilimycin (TM)/tilivalline (TV) biosynthetic operon in
K. oxytoca
MIT 09-7231 wild-type and its derivatives Δ
lrp
mutant and complemented strains. Our results suggest that Lrp directly activates the transcription of both
aroX
and
npsA
genes by binding to the intergenic regulatory region in a leucine-dependent manner. Furthermore, the lack of Lrp significantly diminished the cytotoxicity of
K. oxytoca
on HeLa cells due to reduced production of TM and TV. Altogether, our data present a new perspective on the role of Lrp as a regulator in cytotoxin-producing
K. oxytoca
strains and how it controls the expression of genes involved in the biosynthesis of their main virulence factors.

IMPORTANCE

Tilimycin (TM) and tilivalline (TV) are enterotoxins that are a hallmark for the cytotoxin-producing
Klebsiella oxytoca
strains, which cause antibiotic-associated hemorrhagic colitis. The biosynthesis of TM and TV is driven by enzymes encoded by the
aroX
- and NRPS-operons. In this study, we discovered that the transcriptional regulator Lrp plays a crucial role in activating the expression of the
aroX
- and NRPS-operons, thereby initiating TM and TV biosynthesis. Our results underscore a molecular mechanism by which TM and TV production by toxigenic
K. oxytoca
strains is regulated and shed further light on developing strategies to prevent the intestinal illness caused by this enteric pathogen.
Supplemental Material: Neoproterozoic–early Paleozoic evolution of the southern Central Asian Orogenic Belt: Constraints from eclogites in the Beishan Orogenic Belt (NW China)
Authors: Wang Tingyi , Zhao Guochun , al. et
Published: December 2024

Table S1: Zircon U-Pb isotope data for the studied samples. Table S2: U-Pb isotope data for accessory minerals for the studied samples. Table S3: Whole-rock major and trace element contents of the Gubaoquan eclogite sample. Table S4: Zircon Lu-Hf isotope compositions for the Gubaoquan eclogite sample. Text S1. Analytical methods.
Dietary fibre fractions supplementation modulates pro-inflammatory cytokines, hindgut fermentation metabolites, and fecal consistency score in nursery pigs
Authors: Erinle Taiwo J , Babatunde Olufemi O , Htoo John K , Mendoza Maria , Columbus Daniel Allan
Published: December 2024

Dietary fibre (DF) may modulate the intestinal health of pigs depending on the content of DF fraction (DFF). Two hundred mixed-sex pigs (7.56 ± 0.86 kg) were randomly assigned to 1 of 5 dietary treatments in four blocks. Diets comprised a basal diet (BD), or BD supplemented with 2% DFF to provide soluble DF and insoluble DF, from inulin and lignocellulose, respectively, in ratios of 1:1 (DFF1), 1:3 (DFF2), 1:5 (DFF3), and 1:7 (DFF4) for 28-d. Compared with BD, plasma interleukin-6 was reduced in DFF1 by 20.1%, while plasma interleukin-1β was reduced in DFF2, DFF3, and DFF4 by average 20% (P < 0.05). Superoxide dismutase was lowest in DFF1 or DFF2 and highest in DFF3 (P < 0.05). Decreasing SDF:IDF quadratically increased plasma urea nitrogen (P < 0.05) and tended to decrease plasma myeloperoxidase (P < 0.10). Hindgut ammonia-nitrogen and biogenic amine concentrations were reduced in DFF diets compared to BD (P < 0.01). Overall, DFF reduced FCS compared to BD (P < 0.001). Decreasing SDF:IDF quadratically reduced FCS (P < 0.05). The results indicate that 2% DFF supplementation, regardless of the SDF:IDF, modulated pro-inflammatory cytokines, hindgut fermentation metabolites, and FCS in nursery pigs.
An ichthyosaur rostrum from the uppermost Albian of Saskatchewan (Canada) represents the youngest diagnosable Canadian ichthyosaur prior to their demise
Authors: Cortés Dirley , Larsson Hans C.E.
Published: December 2024

A partial ichthyosaur rostrum from late Albian-aged Ashville Formation deposits in southern Saskatchewan is described here. Previously referred to ' Platypterygius' americanus (Nace, 1939), the well-preserved rostrum includes the snout tip and several articulated teeth. Based on the unique anteroventral curvature of the snout and proportions of the premaxilla, dentary, and teeth, the specimen is reaffirmed as ' P.' americanus with diagnostic traits in spite of the lower Cenomanian age for the type and previously referred material for this taxon. The Saskatchewan specimen extends 'P.' americanus to the late Albian, and the species would have inhabited the Western Interior Seaway along with other marine predators with varied diets. The teeth of the Saskatchewan specimen are generalist in morphology due to their large size and robust crowns. Further research is required to shed light on ichthyosaur snout anatomy and evolution immediately prior to their extinction by the late Cenomanian. The early Cenomanian age of the Wyoming ' P.' americanus and late Albian age of the Saskatchewan specimen may ultimately reveal a novel taxon in the Ashville Formation as more complete material is found.
A hybrid model using 1D-CNN with Bi-LSTM, GRU, and various ML regressors for forecasting the conception of electrical energy
Authors: Abdulameer Yahya Hafedh , Ibrahim Abdullahi Abdu
Published: December 2024

To solve power consumption challenges by using the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) techniques, this research presents an innovative hybrid time series forecasting approach. The suggested model combines GRU-BiLSTM with several regressors and is benchmarked against three other models to guarantee optimum reliability. It uses a specialized dataset from the Ministry of Electricity in Baghdad, Iraq. For every model architecture, three optimizers are tested: Adam, RMSprop and Nadam. Performance assessments show that the hybrid model is highly reliable, offering a practical option for model-based sequence applications that need fast computation and comprehensive context knowledge. Notably, the Adam optimizer works better than the others by promoting faster convergence and obstructing the establishment of local minima. Adam modifies the learning rate according to estimates of each parameter’s first and second moments of the gradients separately. Furthermore, because of its tolerance for outliers and emphasis on fitting within a certain margin, the SVR regressor performs better than stepwise and polynomial regressors, obtaining a lower MSE of 0.008481 using the Adam optimizer. The SVR’s regularization also reduces overfitting, especially when paired with Adam’s flexible learning rates. The research concludes that the properties of the targeted dataset, processing demands and job complexity should all be considered when selecting a model and optimizer.
Dual channel semantic enhancement-based convolutional neural networks model for text classification
Authors: Zhang Kangqi , Liu Xiaoyang , Zhao Na , Liu Shan , Li Chaorong
Published: December 2024

Text classification is an essential research aspect in the field of natural language processing. The shortcomings of insufficient capture of long-range semantic information and poor model generalization in text classification tasks, to surmount the above-mentioned problems, a two-channel convolutional module with weighted attentional utility and a semantic enhancement module for textual features are introduced. In this paper, we proposed a Dual-channel Semantic enhancement-based Convolutional Neural Network text classification model (DcSeCNN). First, Atlas convolution is introduced to collaborate with TextCNN convolution for forming dual-channel convolution and acquiring local and global semantic information of sentence-level text. Second, to better exploit the textual information flow, a weighted average attention mechanism module is used to enhance the features of the two-channel weighting. Finally, the original text vectors are semantically augmented with the original discourse and fused into a two-channel augmented features map, respectively, tuned by the learning rate attenuation coefficient [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] parameters to constitute a DcSeCNN model. Extensive experimental comparative analyses with seven baseline models on six data sets, including MR, R8, R52, TREC, IMDBR, and THUCNews, have shown the advantages of the scheme in terms of enhanced semantic message extraction, improved classification and model generality.
The physics behind astrophysical transients
Authors: Fryer Chris , Fryer Daniel A.
Published: December 2024

With an increased emphasis on time-domain and multi-messenger astrophysics, astrophysical transients have catapulted in importance over the past few years. Astronomers are discovering an increasingly diverse set of transient phenomena. Oftentimes, the menagerie of transients are analyzed using simplified models designed for a single transient. Using such inappropriate models often leads to incorrect interpretations of these models. This misuse often lies in a poor understanding of the basic physics powering astrophysical transients. In this paper, we review this basic physics, building up the different physical components behind transient emission toward increasingly complex models behind astrophysical phenomena. These discussions allow us to better understand the misconceptions in our current interpretations of astrophysical transients.
A Novel Three-Stage Dehazing Model Using Improved Auto-Color Transfer Method, Adaptive Dehazing, and Adaptive Contrast Enhancement
Authors: Pavan Kumar Balla , Kumar Arvind , Pandey Rajoo
Published: December 2024

The problems of underexposure, under-detail-enhancement and residual haze are detected in the previous dehazing techniques. These issues occur due to different reasons and are highly difficult to be resolved using a single algorithm. Therefore, a three-stage dehazing model (TSDM) is proposed in this paper using pre-processing, dehazing and post-processing modules. The improved auto-color transfer (IACT) approach is presented as part of pre-processing to efficiently enhance the hazy image to overcome underexposure. Also, adaptive dehazing (AD) is developed in this work which considers the global characteristics of the hazy image as a parameter, to adaptively enhance the details. Moreover, adaptive contrast enhancement (ACE) is proposed as a post-processing operation that adaptively fuses the dehazed image and its contrast-enhanced image to effectively improve the contrast. However, the IACT operation is performed on the hazy image only when dark regions are detected. Similarly, the ACE is performed only when a dehazed image exhibits residual haze. Based on these prior conditions, the proposed work can be implemented in four distinct ways i.e. using only the AD technique; using IACT and AD approaches, using AD and ACE methods, and using all IACT, AD and ACE algorithms. The proposed TSDM is experimentally analyzed using many databases which shows improved results compared to previous techniques.
Exploring Derivative-Free Split-Step and Balanced Solvers for Itô Stochastic Differential Equations
Authors: Ahmed Nawzad M. , Soleymani Fazlollah , Saeed Rostam K.
Published: December 2024

In this paper, a new Milstein-type derivative-free numerical method is proposed for Itô stochastic differential equations (SDEs). The mean-square stability of the method is thoroughly analyzed, and its error estimation is rigorously examined. The method is subsequently extended twice using the concepts of balanced methods and drift-split-step schemes to achieve the highest possible mean-square stability while preserving the derivative-free structure. Detailed numerical simulations are provided to support the theoretical discussions.
On the classification of Jacobi curves and their conformal curvatures
Authors: Bautista A. , Ibort A. , Lafuente J.
Published: December 2024

This paper describes the theory of Jacobi curves, a far reaching extension of the spaces of Jacobi fields along Riemannian geodesics, developed by Agrachev and Zelenko. Jacobi curves are curves in the Lagrangian Grassmannian of a symplectic space satisfying appropriate regularity conditions. It is shown that they are fully characterized in terms of a family of conformal symplectic invariant curvatures. In addition to a new derivation of the Ricci curvature tensor of a Jacobi curve, a Cartan-like theory of Jacobi curves is presented that allows to associate to any admissible Jacobi curve a reduced normal Cartan matrix. A reconstruction theorem proving that an admissible Jacobi curve is characterized, up to conformal symplectic transformations, by a reduced normal Cartan matrix and a geometric parametrization is obtained. The theory of cycles is studied proving that they correspond to flat Jacobi curves.
ZnO/P3HT nanocomposite photoanodes for photoelectrochemical applications
Authors: Majumder Tanmoy , Mondal Suvra Prakash
Published: December 2024

ZnO nanoparticle/poly(3-hexylthiophene) conducting polymer hybrid nanocomposite photoanode has been grown on FTO-coated glass substrates. ZnO nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) were synthesised using sol–gel methods. Structural and optical properties of ZnO NPs studied using AFM, TEM and UV–Vis spectroscopy. The size of the ZnO nanoparticles varies from 10[Formula: see text]nm to 45[Formula: see text]nm. The photoelectrochemical properties of the P3HT film, ZnO nanoparticles and ZnO/P3HT nanocomposite photoanodes have been studied under dark and illumination of white light. The ZnO/P3HT hybrid photoanode shows photosensing properties with a high on-off ratio (∼90) at 0[Formula: see text]V. Open circuit photovoltage (OCPV) response and OCPV delay of ZnO/P3HT nanocomposite has been studied. The stability of ZnO nanoparticle-poly(3-hexylthiophene) nanocomposite as a photoanode has been investigated using 1[Formula: see text]Hz chopped light pulse.
Sustainability vs. Quality of Experience: Striking the Right Balance for Video Streaming
Authors: Bingöl Gülnaziye
Published: December 2024

The exponential growth in internet data traffic, driven by the widespread use of video streaming applications, has resulted in increased energy consumption and carbon emissions. This outcome is primarily due to higher resolution or higher framerates content and the ability to watch videos on various end-devices. However, efforts to reduce energy consumption in video streaming services may have unintended consequences on users' Quality of Experience (QoE). This column delves into the intricate relationship between QoE and energy consumption, considering the impact of different bit rates on end-devices. We also consider other factors to provide a more comprehensive understanding of whether these end-devices have a significant environmental impact. It is essential to carefully weigh the trade-offs between QoE and energy consumption to make informed decisions and develop sustainable practices in video streaming services.
Procedural Content Generation - The Open Source Success Story of Wave Function Collapse
Authors: Lux Mathias
Published: December 2024

With OpenAI's Dall-E, Midjourney, and Adobe Firefly, computer-generated visual content has hit the mass market. Machine learning-based algorithms can now create, and re-mix multimedia content based on huge corpora of images and videos and relieve creative professionals of tedious work. While this has gained much momentum lately, procedurally generated content (PCG) has been around for quite some time already. Especially in video game development, randomized levels, behavior, aesthetics, and even narratives increase replayability and engage the audience longer. Prominent examples are Minecraft and Diablo, where the game world is randomly generated, and Borderlands, where in-game items are generated on the fly. PCG is applied on multiple levels with different purposes, like generating terrain, weather, road and transport networks, house layouts, puzzles, textures, and mazes, just to name a few. Hedrikx et al. [1] give a comprehensive overview of the topic.

In a typical scenario, a mix of algorithms is employed to create content on the fly. Generative grammar algorithms are often employed for vegetation, fractal noise is used to generate terrain and clouds, and simulation is used to create road networks or to erode terrain further. Lately, deep learning-based approaches have become available. The most notable example is AI Dungeon [2], where users converse with GPT in a text adventure. However, large neural networks require significant computational power and are hard to explain and constrain, so procedural content generation tends to use less complex algorithms, where game designers can give hard constraints to influence the outcome.
Systems Biology of the Cancer Cell
Authors: Janes Kevin A. , Lazzara Matthew J.
Published: December 2024

Questions in cancer have engaged systems biologists for decades. During that time, the quantity of molecular data has exploded, but the need for abstractions, formal models, and simplifying insights has remained the same. This review brings together classic breakthroughs and recent findings in the field of cancer systems biology, focusing on cancer-cell pathways for tumorigenesis and therapeutic response. Cancer cells mutate and transduce information from their environment to alter gene expression, metabolism, and phenotypic states. Understanding the molecular architectures that make each of these steps possible is a long-term goal of cancer systems biology pursued by iterating between quantitative models and experiments. We argue that such iteration is the best path to deploying targeted therapies intelligently so that each patient receives the maximum benefit for their cancer.
Guidelines for Returning to Dance Following Concussion: Adaptations From Sport Concussion Literature
Authors: Ojofeitimi Sheyi , McIntyre Lauren , Barchi Elizabeth , Rae Sarah S. , Winnitoy Brittney , Russell Jeffrey A.
Published: December 2024

Sport concussion receives substantial attention as a public health concern. Conversely, performing artists, including dancers, sustain concussions, but these aesthetic athletes do not receive the same level of consideration nor care for this injury as that offered to traditional athletes. The concussion literature pertaining to dance is sparse, and, to our knowledge, no recommendations exist for the crucial aspect of care related to returning to dance following a concussion. The purpose of this article is to assimilate the current knowledge about post‐concussion return to activity management in sport—the closest analog of the physical demands required in dance—as a means to delineate a framework for returning to dance following a concussion. Specific guidance is provided based on a review of evidence‐based practice so clinicians can ensure that dancers return safely to both their dance activity and any academic work they are required to undertake. Concussion in dance is not an infrequent occurrence and dancers and healthcare practitioners alike will benefit from dance‐specific guidance for returning to dance post‐concussion. Overall, the principles that form the foundation for return‐to‐sport decisions are remarkably robust for application to dance.
Large-Core Ischemic Stroke Endovascular Treatment: A Science Advisory From the American Heart Association
Authors: Gonzalez Nestor R. , Khatri Pooja , Albers Gregory W. , Dumitrascu Oana M. , Goyal Mayank , Leonard Anne , Lev Michael H. , Martin Renee , Tseng Chi-Hong ,   on behalf of the American Heart Association Stroke Council; Council on Basic Cardiovascular Sciences; Council on Cardiovascular and Stroke Nursing; Council on Cardiovascular Radiology and Intervention; and Council on Peripheral Vascular Disease
Published: December 2024

Several trials of endovascular treatment for patients with large-core acute ischemic stroke have been completed. Whereas future stroke clinical guidelines will provide specific recommendations, this advisory aims to summarize the results of these trials, analyze the commonalities and differences among the studies, and discuss the clinical implications of these new results.
The Importance of Environmental Factors in Ensuring Sustainable Economıic Growth in OECD Countries
Authors: Korkmaz Suna , Korkmaz Oya
Published: December 2024

Recently, sustainable economic growth is one of the macroeconomic policies aimed by country governments. Environmental factors play an important role in the sustainability of economic growth. For this reason, natural resources must be used effectively and efficiently and must be sustained. In addition, in order to achieve sustainable economic growth, it is necessary to protect the ecosystem and reduce environmental pollution that occurs with industrialization. One of the factors causing environmental pollution is carbon emissions. Therefore, in this study, the relationship between per capita CO2 emissions released in total industrial production and economic growth for 8 OECD countries was analyzed by panel causality test. In the analysis, annual data for the period 2010-2018 were used. As a result of the study, a unidirectional causality relationship was found from economic growth to CO2 emissions.
Free Movement of Services and Non-EU Citizen Staff – a U-turn from the CJEU? Comments on Case C-540/22, SN, ECLI:EU:C:2024:530
Authors: Peers Steve
Published: December 2024

The CJEU has recently decided that non-EU employees of EU companies providing services in another Member State require residence permits to work there for more than 90 days. This case note explores the rationale and implications of the Court’s judgment.
Taxonomical remarks on Solenopsis corsica (Campanulaceae) species complex, with the description of two new species from Sardinia
Authors: BRULLO SALVATORE , CALVIA GIACOMO , CAMBRIA SALVATORE , SIRACUSA GIUSEPPE , GALDO GIANPIETRO GIUSSO DEL , BACCHETTA GIANLUIGI
Published: December 2024

Taxonomical investigations on Solenopsis corsica occurring in Corsica and Sardinia revealed that it represents a species complex, within which some morphologically well distinct taxa can be recognized. The surveyed populations are closely related among them, especially for the habit, with very small leaf hairy rosettes, small-sized flowers with divaricate corolla lips. Apart from S. corsica s.str., widely spread in Corsica, other two new species, morphologically well differentiated can be recognized, they are: S. limbarae and S. corriasii, both occurring in northern Sardinia, where they are localized on the Limbara massif and in other nearby siliceous mountains. The diagnostic features that allow to distinguish these species encompass the size and shape of leaves, bracteoles, flowers, fruits, and seeds. In addition, other differences concern the shape and size of pollen grain and seed testa, as well as their micromorphology. Finally, chorology and ecology of these species are examined, as well as their detailed illustrations and an analytical key of the hitherto known Sardo-Corsican species of this genus are provided.
Revision of Tenomerga (Coleoptera, Cupedidae) of Japan and adjacent regions
Authors: YOSHITOMI HIROYUKI
Published: December 2024

Tenomerga Neboiss, 1984 distributed in Japan and its neighbouring countries is revised. Six species are recognized. Tenomerga anguliscutis (Kolbe, 1886) and T. trabecula Neboiss, 1984 are firstly recorded from Japan, and T. mucida (Chevrolat, 1844) is newly recorded from Taiwan.
Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS) Substrates Based on Photonic Crystal Embedded Bi-Metallic Nanoparticles for Leptospiral DNA Detection
Authors: Abdul Razak Anis Athirah , Shatar Liyana , Ramli Aima , Kassim Syara , Mohd Ghazali Mohd Sabri , Chee Hui Yee , Zakaria Rozalina , Mahdi Mohd Adzir , Suhailin Fariza Hanim
Published: December 2024

Leptospirosis is an acute bacterial febrile disease affecting humans and animals in many tropical and subtropical countries. This work presents an optimization of surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) substrates to probe vibrational spectroscopic detail from Leptospira deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA). The pathogenic gene of LipL32 was used as a biomarker. The SERS substrates were based on a photonic crystal (PC) structure embedded with bi-metallic gold and silver nanoparticles (PC@AuAg NPs). The localized plasmonic resonance of AuAg NPs was coupled to the Raman modes of the target through SERS interaction. Prior to detection, the AuAg NPs were functionalized with chemical linkers to facilitate specific conjugation between metallic surfaces and DNA biomolecules. The immobilization and hybridization of probe DNA to their complementary target DNA (cDNA) created duplex formation for detection. The configuration was also tested with non-complementary DNA to verify detection specificity. Prominent SERS peaks were recorded, and the characteristic intensity decreased after cDNA hybridization due to less base interaction after complementary pairing. Distinct SERS behavior from the negative control test was also observed in non-complementary interaction. The configuration is highly attractive and can be potentially extended for sensitive and label-free detection of leptospiral DNA, paving the way for alternative diagnosis of leptospirosis.