bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of Aly1 and Aly2 as Modulators of Cytoplasmic pH in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Liu Guoyong , Han Xiuli , Yu Xiang , Wang Yu , Ma Jinbiao , Yang Yongqing
Published: December 2023

The regulation of intracellular pH in yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) cells is critical for cell function and viability. In yeast, protons (H+) can be excreted from the cell by plasma membrane ATPase PMA1 and pumped into vacuoles by vacuolar H+-ATPase. Because PMA1 is critical to the survival of yeast cells, it is unknown whether other compensatory components are involved in pH homeostasis in the absence of PMA1. To elucidate how intracellular pH is regulated independently of PMA1, we employed a screening approach by exposing the yeast haploid deletion mutant library (ver 4.0) to the selective plant plasma membrane H+-ATPase inhibitor PS-1, which we previously reported. After repeated screenings and verification, we identified two proteins, Aly1 and Aly2, that play a role in the regulation of intracellular pH when PMA1 is deficient. Our research uncovers a new perspective on the regulation of intracellular pH related to PMA1 and also preliminarily reveals a role for Aly1 and Aly2 in the regulation of intracellular pH.
Climate Risks Resilience Development: A Bibliometric Analysis of Climate-Related Early Warning Systems in Southern Africa
Authors: Agbehadji Israel Edem , Schütte Stefanie , Masinde Muthoni , Botai Joel , Mabhaudhi Tafadzwanashe
Published: December 2023

Early warning systems (EWS) facilitate societies’ preparedness and effective response capabilities to climate risks. Climate risks embody hazards, exposure, and vulnerability associated with a particular geographical area. Building an effective EWS requires consideration of the factors above to help people with coping mechanisms. The objective of this paper is to propose an approach that can enhance EWSs and ensure an effective climate risk resilience development. The paper focuses on the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region and highlights the issues with EWS, identifying weaknesses and characteristics of EWS to help in climate risk adaptation strategies. The SADC region was chosen as the context because it is a climate variability and change hotspot with many vulnerable populations residing in rural communities. Trending themes on building climate risk resilience were uncovered through scientific mapping and network analysis of published articles from 2008 to 2022. This paper contributes to on-going research on building climate risks resilience through early warning systems to identify hidden trends and emerging technologies from articles in order to enhance the operationalization and design of EWS. This review provides insight into technological interventions for assessing climate risks to build preparedness and resilience. From the review analysis, it is determined that there exists a plethora of evidence to support the argument that involving communities in the co-designing of EWS would improve risk knowledge, anticipation, and preparedness. Additionally, Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) technologies provide effective tools to address existing EWS’ weaknesses, such as lack of real-time data collection and automation. However, 4IR technology is still at a nascent stage in EWS applications in Africa. Furthermore, policy across societies, institutions, and technology industries ought to be coordinated and integrated to develop a strategy toward implementing climate resilient-based EWS to facilitate the operations of disaster risk managers. The Social, Institutional, and Technology model can potentially increase communities’ resilience; therefore, it is recommended to develop EWS.
RETRACTED: Iandolo et al. Traditional and Recent Root Canal Irrigation Methods and Their Effectiveness: A Review. Clin. Pract. 2023, 13, 1059–1072
Authors: Iandolo Alfredo , Pisano Massimo , Buonavoglia Alessio , Giordano Francesco , Amato Alessandra , Abdellatif Dina
Published: December 2023

The Clinics and Practice Editorial Office retracts the article titled “Traditional and Recent Root Canal Irrigation Methods and Their Effectiveness: A Review” [...]
Knowledge Representation and Reuse of Ship Block Coating Based on Knowledge Graph
Authors: Bu Henan , Peng Yang , Guo Qinzheng , Zhou Honggen
Published: December 2023

Ship coating, as one of the three pillar processes in the shipbuilding industry, runs through the entire process of ship construction. However, there is currently a lack of effective organization, management methods, and mechanisms for ship coating process data, which not only leads to the dispersion of data but also limits the effective representation and reuse of the coating knowledge. To solve this problem, this paper takes the ship block coating process as the research object and proposes a method for knowledge modeling and reuse of coating knowledge using knowledge graph and question answering technology. Compared with existing strategies, this paper introduces the temporal knowledge graph, which allows for dynamic updating and generation of the knowledge graph specific to ship coating processes. In addition, we apply the knowledge embedding question answering (KEQA) method improved by the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) to facilitate high-quality retrieval and personalized question answering regarding ship block coating knowledge. We validate the proposed method using block coating process data from the 81200DWT bulk carrier and advanced ship coating methods and optimization data. The results demonstrate that the AHP-KEQA (KEQA method improved by the AHP) method improves the accuracy of knowledge question answering compared with KEQA, which further reinforces the effectiveness of the AHP-KEQA method for question answering of ship block coating knowledge.
Surface Modification of Nano-Al2O3 with Silane Coupling Agent and Its Effect on the Compressive Strength of PI/Al2O3 Composites
Authors: Cao Jing , Wang Yu , Liu Guanghua , Shang Qingyuan , Wang Bicheng , Sun Jian , Bai Yu , Liu Ming , Yu Fangli , Ma Guozheng , Wang Haidong
Published: December 2023

In this study, a series of nano-Al2O3 reinforced polyimide (PI) composites were fabricated using the hot compression method. A silane coupling agent was used to modify the surface of nano-Al2O3 powder to enhance the PI/Al2O3 interface compatibility. The effects of Al2O3 contents on the microstructures, thermal behavior and mechanical properties of PI/Al2O3 composites were investigated. The results suggested that chemical reactions occurred during in situ modification. The nano-Al2O3 was cross-linked to the PI matrix, which reduced the mobility of PI chains and improved the elastic modulus of the composites. When the Al2O3 content was 30 wt.%, the compressive strength of composites reached the maximum value of 313 MPa and increased by 26.5% than that of the PI matrix.
The Effect of Yttrium Nitrate Content on the Microstructure and Properties of a Micro-Arc Oxidation Coating Prepared on a ZK61M Magnesium Alloy
Authors: Li Hongzhan , Wang Yifei , Geng Juanjuan , Li Shaolong , Chen Yongnan
Published: December 2023

To investigate the effect of the content of yttrium nitrate on the microstructure and properties of micro-arc oxidation coatings on a ZK61M magnesium alloy, this study successfully prepared a ZrO2-Y2O3-containing composite ceramic coating on a ZK61M magnesium alloy by using micro-arc oxidation (MAO) technology, adding different amounts of yttrium nitrate (0 g/L, 0.15 g/L, 0.45 g/L, and 0.75 g/L) to a zirconate electrolyte with the main components of 6 g/L of (NH4)2ZrF6, 4 g/L of NaH2PO4, 1 g/L of NaF, and a pH value of 7.5–8.0. The microstructure, phase composition, corrosion resistance, and friction coefficient of the coating were investigated using a scanning electron microscope, an energy spectrometer, an X-ray diffractometer, a photoelectron spectrometer, an electrochemical tester, and a friction and wear tester, respectively. The results showed that the composite ceramic coating was composed of c-ZrO2, t-ZrO2, m-ZrO2, MgO, Y2O3, and MgF2. Among the MAO coatings prepared in this experiment, it was when the concentration of the Y(NO3)3 was 0.75 g/L that the coating exhibited the best corrosion resistance and wear resistance. The corrosion current density (Icorr) was 1.415 × 10−8 A·cm−2, which was four orders of magnitude lower than that of the substrate. The friction coefficient and wear volume of the coating were reduced by 30.77% and 96.55% compared to the substrate, respectively.
Review of Wind Power Bearing Wear Analysis and Intelligent Lubrication Method Research
Authors: Peng Han , Zhao Defang , Shangguan Linjian , Li Songyin , Cheng Ruixue
Published: December 2023

With the significant penetration of wind generation, wind turbines require higher and higher lubrication performance for bearings. To improve the lubrication performance of wind power bearings, this study takes wind power bearings as the research object and comprehensively analyzes the wear forms of wind power bearings as well as intelligent lubrication methods. Firstly, the main roles and wear forms of wind turbine bearings are sorted out and analyzed. Secondly, the common lubrication problems of wind power bearings are analyzed from the bearing grease selection, lubrication mode, and lubrication status, highlighting the important influence of lubrication on bearings. Thirdly, the wind turbine bearing wisdom lubrication method research and organization, mainly including the wind power generation bearing lubrication materials, lubrication devices and monitoring methods, and other issues of research and analysis. Finally, current challenges and future development directions are summarized, which are designed to provide theoretical reference and technical support for the related research and engineering practice in the field of wind power engineering.
Facilitating Communication in Neuromuscular Diseases: An Adaptive Approach with Fuzzy Logic and Machine Learning in Augmentative and Alternative Communication Systems
Authors: Sánchez-Álvarez Jhon Fernando , Jaramillo-Álvarez Gloria Patricia , Jiménez-Builes Jovani Alberto
Published: December 2023

Augmentative and alternative communication techniques (AAC) are essential to assist individuals facing communication difficulties. (1) Background: It is acknowledged that dynamic solutions that adjust to the changing needs of patients are necessary in the context of neuromuscular diseases. (2) Methods: In order address this concern, a differential approach was suggested that entailed the prior identification of the disease state. This approach employs fuzzy logic to ascertain the disease stage by analyzing intuitive patterns; it is contrasted with two intelligent systems. (3) Results: The results indicate that the AAC system’s adaptability enhances with the progression of the disease’s phases, thereby ensuring its utility throughout the lifespan of the individual. Although the adaptive AAC system exhibits signs of improvement, an expanded assessment involving a greater number of patients is required. (4) Conclusions: Qualitative assessments of comparative studies shed light on the difficulties associated with enhancing accuracy and adaptability. This research highlights the significance of investigating the use of fuzzy logic or artificial intelligence methods in order to solve the issue of symptom variability in disease staging.
Genomic Surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 Sequence Variants at Universities in Southwest Idaho
Authors: Chase Jennifer R. , Bond Laura , Vail Daniel J. , Sengthep Milan , Rodriguez Adriana , Christianson Joe , Hudon Stephanie F. , Oxford Julia Thom
Published: December 2023

Although the impact of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic on major metropolitan areas is broadly reported and readily available, regions with lower populations and more remote areas in the United States are understudied. The objective of this study is to determine the progression of SARS-CoV-2 sequence variants in a frontier and remote intermountain west state among university-associated communities. This study was conducted at two intermountain west universities from 2020 to 2022. Positive SARS-CoV-2 samples were confirmed by quantitative real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and variants were identified by the next-generation sequencing of viral genomes. Positive results were obtained for 5355 samples, representing a positivity rate of 3.5% overall. The median age was 22 years. Viral genomic sequence data were analyzed for 1717 samples and phylogeny was presented. Associations between viral variants, age, sex, and reported symptoms among 1522 samples indicated a significant association between age and the Delta variant (B 1.167.2), consistent with the findings for other regions. An outbreak event of AY122 was detected August–October 2021. A 2-month delay was observed with respect to the timing of the first documented viral infection within this region compared to major metropolitan regions of the US.
Ultra-Wideband Terahertz Wave Absorber Using Vertically Structured IGIGIM Metasurface
Authors: Asif Muhammad , Wang Qiong , Ouyang Zhengbiao , Lin Mi , Liang Zixian
Published: December 2023

Achieving perfect absorption of electromagnetic waves across a wide range of frequencies is crucial for various applications, including sensing, imaging, and energy capture. In this study, we introduced a new concept for metasurfaces and proposed a six-layer vertically structured IGIGIM metasurface consisting of gold (Au), silicon (Si), graphene (G1), silica (SiO2), a second layer of graphene (G2), and polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), which demonstrates ultra-wideband absorptance in the terahertz (THz) region. Through theoretical analysis and numerical simulations, we obtained broadband absorptance over 80% with the average absorptance of 92.6% and a bandwidth of 8.22 THz, from 1.78 to 10.0 THz. Whereas, dual broadband absorptance was obtained for above 90% with the bandwidth of 5.63 THz in the two sub-bands of 2.09–3.5 THz and 5.78–10 THz and above 95% with the bandwidth of 3.63 THz in the two sub-bands of 2.32–3.12 THz and 6.35–9.9 THz. Moreover, the proposed structure exhibits a polarization-independent absorption property. Also, it demonstrates a tolerance for the incident angle of 40 degrees, maintaining a wide absorption band. This remarkable feature is attributed to the multiple Fabry–Pérot resonance absorptions in the structure. Our study presents a convenient method for designing high-quality terahertz wave absorbers with outstanding broadband absorptance.
Structural Analysis, Characterization, and First-Principles Calculations of Bismuth Tellurium Oxides, Bi6Te2O15
Authors: Kim Sun Woo , Chang Hong Young
Published: December 2023

A single crystal of Bi6Te2O15 was obtained from the melt of the solid-state reaction of Bi2O3 and TeO3. Bi6Te2O15 crystallizes in the Pnma space group (No. 62) and exhibits a three-dimensional network structure with a =10.5831(12) Å, b = 22.694(3) Å, c = 5.3843(6) Å, α = β = γ = 90°, V = 1293.2(3) Å3, and Z = 4. The structure was determined using single-crystal X-ray diffraction. An asymmetric unit in the unit cell, Bi3Te1O7.5, uniquely composed of four Bi3+ sites, one Te6+ site, and nine O2− sites, was solved and refined. As a bulk phase, Bi6Te2O15 was also synthesized and characterized using powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), infrared (FT-IR) spectrometry, and the thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) method. Through bond valence sum (BVS) calculations from the single crystal structure, Bi and Te cations have +3 and +6 oxidation numbers, respectively. Each Bi3+ cation forms a square pyramidal structure with five O2− anions, and a single Te6+ cation forms a six-coordinated octahedral structure with O2− anions. Since the lone-pair electron (Lp) of the square pyramidal structure, [BiO5]7−, where the Bi+ cation occupies the center of the square base plane, exists in the opposite direction of the square plane, the asymmetric environments of all four Bi3+ cations were analyzed and explored by determining the local dipole moments. In addition, to determine the extent of bond strain and distortion in the unit cell, which is attributed to the asymmetric environments of the Bi3+ and Te6+ cations in Bi6Te2O15, bond strain index (BSI) and global instability index (GII) were also calculated. We also investigated the structural, electronic, and optical properties of the structure of Bi6Te2O15 using the full potential linear augmented plane wave (FP-LAPW) method and the density functional theory (DFT) with WIEN2k code. In order to study the ground state properties of Bi6Te2O15, the theoretical total energies were calculated as a function of reduced volumes and then fitted with the Birch–Murnaghan equation of state (EOS). The band gap energy within the modified Becke–Johnson potential with Tran–Blaha parameterization (TB-mBJ) revealed a value of 3.36 eV, which was higher than the experimental value of 3.29 eV. To explore the optical properties of Bi6Te2O15, the real and imaginary parts of the dielectric function, refraction index, optical absorption coefficient, reflectivity, the real part of the optical conductivity extinction function, and the energy loss function were also calculated.
Complete Mitochondrial Genome of the Backswimmer: Notonecta triguttata Motschulsky, 1861 (Hemiptera: Notonectidae): Sequence, Structure, and Phylogenetic Analysis
Authors: Wang Guobin , Sun Chengze , Hu Huijun , Zhang Danli , Li Min
Published: December 2023

Notonecta triguttata Motschulsky, 1861 (Hemiptera, Notonectidae) is distributed in China, Japan, and South Korea. It is the dominant hexapod predator in aquatic ecosystems and can control harmful insects, such as mosquitoes and parasites. This study presents the first determination of the complete mitochondrial genome of N. triguttata. The mitogenome was 15,156 base pairs in length and was made up of 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 2 ribosomal RNAs, 22 transfer RNAs, and one non-coding control region. All genes were arranged in the same order as most other known heteropteran mitogenomes. All PCGs started with the ATN codon except COX1 (TTG) and NAD2 (GTG) and ended with TAA, TAG, or the partial stop codon T. The tRNAs had a typical cloverleaf secondary structure, except tRNA-Ser (GCT). The A + T content (75.96%) was relatively high across the entire mitogenome. The optimal phylogenetic trees were inferred through the Bayesian inference and maximum likelihood methods. The trees suggested a topology of (Corixoidea + ((Nepoidea + Ochteroidea) + (Naucoroidea + (Pleoidea + Notonectoidea)))) and identified that N. triguttata belongs to Notonectoidea. The complete mitogenome of N. triguttata provides a potentially useful resource for further exploration of the taxonomic status and phylogenetic history of the Notonecta species.
Status of the Italian Freshwater Gastrotricha Biodiversity, with the Creation of an Interactive GIS-Based Web Map
Authors: Saponi Francesco , Todaro M. Antonio
Published: December 2023

Gastrotricha are microscopic benthic animals found in almost all water bodies. To date, over 890 species distributed in 71 genera, 18 families, and two orders are known. There are 376 freshwater species, and several are also found in Italy; however, a compendium of the studies carried out so far, and a georeferenced distribution of the species, still need to be provided. This project summarizes information about the diversity and geographic distribution of Italian gastrotrichs. Diversity data, acquired over 239 years, were reviewed and corrected based on taxonomic and nomenclatural updates and, in addition to distribution information, were organized into a data matrix valuable for statistical analysis. The data were fed into geographic information system software to understand the overall figures more easily. The results indicated that Italy is one of the best-known countries regarding freshwater gastrotrichs. With 92 species in 17 genera and three families from 61 investigated localities, Italy counts 17 type localities and 19 endemic species. Despite this high biodiversity, many Italian regions still need to be investigated, and should, therefore, be the focus of future research. The implementation of a web-mapping plugin enabled the creation of interactive maps for an easy and modern method for sharing the work done, and the information acquired.
Coverings on Pitfall Traps Influence the Abundance of Ground-Dwelling Arthropods
Authors: Litavský Juraj , Prokop Pavol
Published: December 2023

Pitfall traps provide a cost-effective method of studying the diversity and abundance of ground-dwelling arthropods, such as beetles and spiders. Their efficiency depends on factors such as size, shape, and substances used to kill or preserve the specimens. Entomologists often employ covers on pitfall traps to prevent dilution of fixation liquids or keep the traps open. In this study, we investigated whether the presence or absence of covers, as well as their colour (black versus translucent), over pitfall traps has an impact on the species diversity and abundance of carabid beetles and harvestmen. These arthropods serve as common examples of ground-dwelling invertebrates, both in forest and meadow environments. Our findings revealed that traps with black-coloured coverings captured significantly higher numbers of beetles than translucent traps, but the uncovered traps were not significantly different from the two. The species richness tended to be highest in uncovered traps. The uncovered traps were the most efficient in capturing adult harvestmen, followed by translucent and black covers in terms of adult harvestmen abundance and diversity. In conclusion, the use of covers on pitfall traps significantly affects the estimates of arthropod abundance and should be taken into account in future research.
Reply to Ishikura, H. What Does Soluble C-Type Lectin-like Receptor 2 (sCLEC-2) × D-Dimer/Platelet (PLT) (sCLEC-2 × D-Dimer/PLT) Mean for Coagulation/Fibrinolysis Conditions? Comment on “Yamamoto et al. Super Formula for Diagnosing Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation Using Soluble C-Type Lectin-like Receptor 2. Diagnostics 2023, 13, 2299”
Authors: Wada Hideo , Yamamoto Akitaka , Shiraki Katsuya , Shimpo Hideto
Published: December 2023

We would like to thank Dr. Ishikura for his kind comment [...]
Correlation between TMJ Space Alteration and Disc Displacement: A Retrospective CBCT and MRI Study
Authors: Yu Wenjing , Jeon Hyeran Helen , Kim Soriul , Dayo Adeyinka , Mupparapu Muralidhar , Boucher Normand S.
Published: December 2023

This study aims to determine if a large anterior and reduced posterior/superior joint space is highly predictable for disc displacement. From patients with temporomandibular disorders symptoms, fifty-two experimental joints and fourteen control joints were included. The cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) images were used to calculate posterior-to-anterior (P-A) and superior-to-anterior (S-A) joint space ratios, while disc position was determined using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). One-way analysis of covariance test and receiver operating characteristics analysis were carried out. The results showed that among the 52 experimental joints, 45 were diagnosed as disc displacement and 7 as normal disc positions (N). All 14 control joints showed normal disc positions. The P-A ratio was 1.46 ± 0.21, 0.99 ± 0.23, and 0.86 ± 0.30 in the control, N, and DD groups, respectively (p < 0.001). The S-A ratio was 1.80 ± 0.27, 1.44 ± 0.33, and 1.08 ± 0.35 in the control, N, and DD groups, respectively (p < 0.001). When an altered P-A ratio and/or S-A ratio are observed on the CBCT, the diagnosis of disc displacement is quite predictable with high sensitivity and specificity.
From Development to Place in Therapy of Lorlatinib for the Treatment of ALK and ROS1 Rearranged Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC)
Authors: Fabbri Laura , Di Federico Alessandro , Astore Martina , Marchiori Virginia , Rejtano Agnese , Seminerio Renata , Gelsomino Francesco , De Giglio Andrea
Published: December 2023

Following the results of the CROWN phase III trial, the third-generation macrocyclic ALK inhibitor lorlatinib has been introduced as a salvage option after the failure of a first-line TKI in ALK-rearranged NSCLC, while its precise role in the therapeutic algorithm of ROS1 positive disease is still to be completely defined. The ability to overcome acquired resistance to prior generation TKIs (alectinib, brigatinib, ceritinib, and crizotinib) and the high intracranial activity in brain metastatic disease thanks to increased blood–brain barrier penetration are the reasons for the growing popularity and interest in this molecule. Nevertheless, the major vulnerability of this drug resides in a peculiar profile of related collateral events, with neurological impairment being the most conflicting and debated clinical issue. The cognitive safety concern, the susceptibility to heterogeneous resistance pathways, and the absence of a valid alternative in the second line are strongly jeopardizing a potential paradigm shift in this oncogene-addicted disease. So, when prescribing lorlatinib, clinicians must face two diametrically opposed characteristics: a great therapeutic potential without the intrinsic limitations of its precursor TKIs, a cytotoxic activity threatened by suboptimal tolerability, and the unavoidable onset of resistance mechanisms we cannot properly manage yet. In this paper, we give a critical point of view on the stepwise introduction of this promising drug into clinical practice, starting from its innovative molecular and biochemical properties to intriguing future developments, without forgetting its weaknesses.
Prognostic Nutritional Index Correlates with Liver Function and Prognosis in Chronic Liver Disease Patients
Authors: Matsui Masahiro , Asai Akira , Ushiro Kosuke , Onishi Saori , Nishikawa Tomohiro , Ohama Hideko , Tsuchimoto Yusuke , Kim Soo Ki , Nishikawa Hiroki
Published: December 2023

The Prognostic Nutritional Index (PNI) is widely recognized as a screening tool for nutrition. We retrospectively examined the impact of PNI in patients with chronic liver disease (CLD, n = 319, median age = 71 years, 153 hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients) as an observational study. Factors associated with PNI < 40 were also examined. The PNI correlated well with the albumin–bilirubin (ALBI) score and ALBI grade. The 1-year cumulative overall survival rates in patients with PNI ≥ 40 (n = 225) and PNI < 40 (n = 94) were 93.2% and 65.5%, respectively (p < 0.0001). In patients with (p < 0.0001) and without (p < 0.0001) HCC, similar tendencies were found. In the multivariate analysis, hemoglobin (p = 0.00178), the presence of HCC (p = 0.0426), and ALBI score (p < 0.0001) were independent factors linked to PNI < 40. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis based on survival for the PNI yielded an area under the ROC curve of 0.79, with sensitivity of 0.80, specificity of 0.70, and an optimal cutoff point of 42.35. In conclusion, PNI can be a predictor of nutritional status in CLD patients. A PNI of <40 can be useful in predicting the prognosis of patients with CLD.
Machine Learning Predicts Decompression Levels for Lumbar Spinal Stenosis Using Canal Radiomic Features from Computed Tomography Myelography
Authors: Fan Guoxin , Wang Dongdong , Li Yufeng , Xu Zhipeng , Wang Hong , Liu Huaqing , Liao Xiang
Published: December 2023

Background: The accurate preoperative identification of decompression levels is crucial for the success of surgery in patients with multi-level lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS). The objective of this study was to develop machine learning (ML) classifiers that can predict decompression levels using computed tomography myelography (CTM) data from LSS patients. Methods: A total of 1095 lumbar levels from 219 patients were included in this study. The bony spinal canal in CTM images was manually delineated, and radiomic features were extracted. The extracted data were randomly divided into training and testing datasets (8:2). Six feature selection methods combined with 12 ML algorithms were employed, resulting in a total of 72 ML classifiers. The main evaluation indicator for all classifiers was the area under the curve of the receiver operating characteristic (ROC-AUC), with the precision–recall AUC (PR-AUC) serving as the secondary indicator. The prediction outcome of ML classifiers was decompression level or not. Results: The embedding linear support vector (embeddingLSVC) was the optimal feature selection method. The feature importance analysis revealed the top 5 important features of the 15 radiomic predictors, which included 2 texture features, 2 first-order intensity features, and 1 shape feature. Except for shape features, these features might be eye-discernible but hardly quantified. The top two ML classifiers were embeddingLSVC combined with support vector machine (EmbeddingLSVC_SVM) and embeddingLSVC combined with gradient boosting (EmbeddingLSVC_GradientBoost). These classifiers achieved ROC-AUCs over 0.90 and PR-AUCs over 0.80 in independent testing among the 72 classifiers. Further comparisons indicated that EmbeddingLSVC_SVM appeared to be the optimal classifier, demonstrating superior discrimination ability, slight advantages in the Brier scores on the calibration curve, and Net benefits on the Decision Curve Analysis. Conclusions: ML successfully extracted valuable and interpretable radiomic features from the spinal canal using CTM images, and accurately predicted decompression levels for LSS patients. The EmbeddingLSVC_SVM classifier has the potential to assist surgical decision making in clinical practice, as it showed high discrimination, advantageous calibration, and competitive utility in selecting decompression levels in LSS patients using canal radiomic features from CTM.
Analysis of the Learning Process of Computer Programming Logic in an 8-Year-Old Elementary School Student at Home through the Scratch Program
Authors: García Victor
Published: December 2023

This paper presents a study guide and an analysis of its use in the computer programming learning process of an 8-year-old elementary school student through the Scratch program. The research’s objective is to explore and understand how this individual student approaches learning programming skills and tackles challenges within the Scratch environment. An individual case study approach was adopted at home, combining qualitative and quantitative methods to gain a comprehensive insight into the student’s learning process. The study was conducted without grant support, and the researcher actively participated as an educator and observer in the student’s learning sessions. Performance was assessed, and a semi-structured interview was conducted to inquire about the student’s experiences, motivations, and interests regarding programming in Scratch, as well as their feelings after the training. Additionally, the student’s activities during programming sessions were meticulously recorded, and projects created in Scratch were analyzed to assess progress and understanding of concepts. The findings of this research have the potential to contribute to the field of programming education and provide valuable insights into how young elementary school-aged individuals can acquire computer and programming skills in an interactive environment such as Scratch. The results obtained demonstrate that using the proposed guide to introduce elementary school students to programming at home, with parents acting as educators, is feasible. Therefore, it helps facilitate access to this knowledge, which is currently limited for many individuals in an official educational setting.
Hybrid Dual-Scale Neural Network Model for Tracking Complex Maneuvering UAVs
Authors: Gao Yang , Gan Zhihong , Chen Min , Ma He , Mao Xingpeng
Published: December 2023

Accurate tracking and predicting unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) trajectories are essential to ensure mission success, equipment safety, and data accuracy. Maneuverable UAVs exhibit complex and dynamic motion, and conventional tracking algorithms that rely on predefined models perform poorly when unknown parameters are used. To address this issue, this paper introduces a hybrid dual-scale neural network model based on the generalized regression multi-model and cubature information filter (GRMM-CIF) framework. We have established the GRMM-CIF filtering structure to differentiate motion modes and reduce measurement noise. Furthermore, considering trajectory datasets and rates of motion change, a neural network at different scales will be designed. We propose the dual-scale bidirectional long short-term memory (DS-Bi-LSTM) algorithm to address prediction delays in a multi-model context. Additionally, we employ scale sliding windows and threshold-based decision-making to achieve dual-scale trajectory reconstruction, ultimately enhancing tracking accuracy. Simulation results confirm the effectiveness of our approach in handling the uncertainty of UAV motion and achieving precise estimations.
Regulating the Revolving Door of Regulators: Legal vs. Ethical Issues
Authors: Brezis Elise S.
Published: December 2023

This paper analyzes the effects of the revolving door, concentrating not only on the dynamics between regulators and firms but also on whether regulating the revolving door is optimal from the point of view of society. The study explores the trade-off between two interconnected aspects related to the revolving door: the ‘lack of competence’ and ‘greed’ of regulators. On the one hand, the revolving door facilitates the recruitment of highly qualified regulators by the government, drawn by the prospect of lucrative future compensation packages. On the other hand, it allows regulators to succumb to greed, enabling them to receive revenues after their term in office. This paper emphasizes that this propensity toward greed can manifest through two distinct channels: ‘regulatory capture’, which is illegal, and ‘abuse of power’, which, while legal, is unethical. This paper highlights that distinguishing whether the behavior of the regulator is either unlawful or unethical is of utmost importance for analyzing the optimal policy concerning regulators. On one end, the capture models advocate for regulated oversight of the revolving door to prevent corruption. On the other end, models of abuse of power, characterized by regulators generating ‘bureaucratic capital’, contribute to the acceptance of the revolving door practice.
Learning about the Coexistence between Nature and Humans in Elementary Science Education: Developing Lessons Using Folktales That Reflect Ancestors’ Views on Nature
Authors: Onodera Karen , Fujii Hiroki
Published: December 2023

Understanding the coexistence between nature and humans is a basic concept required in modern society. In this study, we verify the effectiveness of folktales as teaching material in science education by incorporating folktales into the fifth-grade elementary school science unit, “Functions of Running Water and Changes in the Land”. We investigate the effects of folktales that express ancestors’ perspectives on nature on pupils’ ideas about the coexistence between nature and humans. Additionally, we explore the possibility of using folktales in science education. In November 2017, an experimental group (74 participants) explored the coexistence between nature and humans through folktales, while a control group (60 participants) explored this coexistence through discussion activities. These experiments were conducted in fifth-grade classrooms at elementary schools in Hiroshima Prefecture, western Japan. Our results indicate that for some pupils in the experimental group, exposure to their ancestors’ views of nature helped them develop and refine their ideas about their connection to and relationship with the river. Folktales vividly depict the nature of the past in the places where the pupils live, offering a glimpse into their ancestors’ different views on nature that differ from present-day views. It is considered that, by coming into contact with the folktale, pupils were able to enter a situation that transcended time, allowing them to think about and empathize with the people who lived with the river. It is suggested that this connection is related to the results described above.
A Transparent Curriculum Design and Capability-Based Assessment Portfolio Facilitates Self-Directed Learning
Authors: Dean Catherine M. , Harris Hayley , McNeil Hugh P. , Hughes Chris
Published: December 2023

This paper describes the design, implementation, and evaluation of a medical degree which uses a capability framework, programmatic assessment, and an assessment portfolio to facilitate feedback literacy and self-directed learning. The Macquarie MD outcomes are expressed through four graduate capabilities, each having two aspects and defined expectation standards for the two two-year stages. Assessments of capability development and Entrustable Professional Activities (EPAs) are embedded in each stage. Assessment data are stored in the student’s online portfolio with data summarised on dashboards presented chronologically and mapped to capability aspects and EPAs. A retrospective audit of curricula and graduate portfolios (n = 104) was undertaken and analysed descriptively. All students met the expectations for capability aspects and EPAs. All students voluntarily undertook additional assessments to strengthen their evidence for capability development and entrustment. On average, students completed 119% (SD = 6) of the required number of assessments: 107% (SD = 3) and 130% (SD = 11) for Stages 1 and 2, respectively. Using a capability framework to explicitly communicate the constructive alignment between capability and EPA outcomes at the degree, stage, and assessment level, as well as student access to future-focused performance standards and all their assessment data, is a powerful way to facilitate self-directed learning.
Physical Activity Time, Alcohol Consumption, Mediterranean Diet, and Anxiety in Education Science Students
Authors: Sanz-Martín Daniel , Zurita-Ortega Félix , Melguizo-Ibáñez Eduardo , Alonso-Vargas José Manuel , Caracuel-Cáliz Rafael , Ubago-Jiménez José Luis
Published: December 2023

Student lifestyles change during university. This research aimed to classify university students according to their levels of physical activity, alcohol consumption, adherence to the Mediterranean diet, and anxiety and studied the relationships between the variables using a multigroup equation model according to gender. The sample was composed of 549 participants (M = 23.06; S.D. = 6.22), of whom 409 were women and 140 were men. Validated and adapted instruments such as the Beck Anxiety Inventory, the PREDIMED Questionnaire, and the Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test were used. The data revealed four clusters through Ward’s method and the k-means method. Regarding the exploratory model, differences were found in the effects of the variables according to sex. In conclusion, alcohol consumption was positively associated with the Mediterranean diet, and physical activity was negatively associated with the Mediterranean diet and anxiety.
Optimization Study of Cooling Channel for the Oil Cooling Air Gap Armature in a High-Temperature Superconducting Motor
Authors: Yu Shuai , Zhou Yong , Wang Yongmao , Zhang Ji , Dong Qi , Tian Jie , Chen Jing , Leng Feng
Published: December 2023

With the continuous advancement of science and technology, the application of high-temperature superconductivity has developed rapidly. The high-temperature superconducting (HTS) motor replacing the copper coil in the traditional motor with HTS winding is increasingly used in power equipment, and the effective thermal management of HTS winding is vital in ensuring the life and effective operation of the HTS motor. In this study, five enhancement structures of indirect oil cooling channels were designed to improve the heat dissipation capacity of the HTS motor winding, and the enhancement effects of the different structures were comprehensively evaluated through numerical simulation using Fluent software 2022R1. The best enhancement structure was selected through structural optimization. The results showed that the Nusselt number of the gap-type enhanced structure was higher than that of the V- and staggered-type structures at the same flow velocity and 68% higher than that of the bare pipe. At the same inlet flow velocity and with a pressure drop limit of 30 kPa, the performance evaluation criterion value of the gap-type structure was 39% and 63% higher than that of the staggered- and V-type structures, respectively. The gap type is the optimal enhancement structure and can effectively improve the heat dissipation of the HTS winding coil.
Cooperative Resource Allocation for Hybrid NOMA-OMA-Based Wireless Powered MC-IoT Systems with Hybrid Relays
Authors: Chen Xu , Xu Ding , Zhu Hongbo
Published: December 2023

This paper considers an uplink wireless powered multichannel internet of things (MC-IoT) system with multiple hybrid relays, each serves a group of wireless-powered IoTDs. For coordinating radio frequency wireless power transfer (RF-WPT) and wireless information transfer (WIT), two cooperative protocols integrating non-orthogonal multiple access (NOMA) and orthogonal multiple access (OMA), namely hybrid NOMA-frequency division multiple access (FDMA) and hybrid NOMA-time division multiple access (TDMA), is proposed. For both protocols, we investigate cooperative resource allocation problems and aim to maximize the sum data delivered by all the IoTDs, subject to the peak transmit power constraint and the total consumable energy constraint of the hybrid relays. The problem with the hybrid NOMA-FDMA is first decomposed into two subproblems, one for time and power allocation of each hybrid relay and its associated IoTDs, and the other one for channel allocation among them. After some properties of the optimal solution are discovered and a series of transformations is performed, the former subproblem is solved by the bisection search and the Lagrange duality method, and the latter subproblem is solved by the Kuhn–Munkres algorithm. The problem with the hybrid NOMA-TDMA is first convexified by proper variable transformations and then solved by the Lagrange duality method. We provide extensive simulations to demonstrate the superiority of the proposed schemes. It is shown that various system parameters play key roles in the performance comparison of the two schemes.
A Solid-State Marx Generator with Prevention of through Current for Rectangular Pulses
Authors: Shi Fukun , Chen Ping , Jiang Song , Zhuang Jie , Rao Junfeng
Published: December 2023

In solid-state high-voltage pulse generators, switches may be triggered on by fault due to electromagnetic interference, resulting in high through current and breakdown of switches. To generate rectangular high-voltage pulses, this paper proposes a solid-state Marx generator (SSMG) with fast recovery diodes to prevent through current. Only charging currents with the same direction flow through these fast recovery diodes breaks the short-circuit loops in and between stages. A 52-stage SSMG prototype based on the proposed circuit was developed. PSpice simulations and experiments were performed for comparison. It was found that the through current can rise to 250 A without any protection. With 10-μH protection inductors in each state, the through current amplitude drops to 50 A. Under the same condition, there is no continuous through current with the proposed fast recovery diodes. Furthermore, 22-kV repetitive rectangular pulses were also obtained in experiments. This proved that the proposed Marx generator can prevent the through current in power cells.
Optimization of an Operation Strategy for Variable Speed Pumped Storage Power System Flexibility
Authors: Xu Qiushi , Zhao Hongsheng , Lyu Wanyu , Peng Xiaotao , Yang Dongjun , Wang Bo , Zhang Zitong
Published: December 2023

With the increase in the grid-connected scale of new energy, the ability to flexibility regulate a power system is greatly challenged. Since a variable speed pumped storage (VSPS) unit has a wider power regulation range and higher operation efficiency than conventional pumped storage (CPS), this study focuses on improving system flexibility with the VSPS unit. First, the probabilistic characteristics of forced outages affecting the flexibility of power units are studied. Considering the uncertainty of the net load prediction error, a probabilistic density method is proposed to quantify the flexibility of the power system. Second, in order to improve the flexibility of the system and take into account the comprehensive benefits of the VSPS unit, an optimization model for the VSPS unit to improve the flexibility of the grid was established based on bacterial colony chemotaxis that takes into consideration the operational constraints of the VSPS unit. Finally, to verify the effectiveness of the proposed optimization strategy using simulation, the proposed optimization model is used to compare the advantages of the VSPS unit’s ability to regulate system flexibility with a conventional pumped storage unit.
Distributed File System to Leverage Data Locality for Large-File Processing
Authors: da Silva Erico Correia , Sato Liria Matsumoto , Midorikawa Edson Toshimi
Published: December 2023

Over the past decade, significant technological advancements have led to a substantial increase in data proliferation. Both scientific computation and Big Data workloads play a central role, manipulating massive data and challenging conventional high-performance computing architectures. Efficiently processing voluminous files using cost-effective hardware remains a persistent challenge, limiting access to new technologies for individuals and organizations capable of higher investments. In response to this challenge, AwareFS, a novel distributed file system, addresses the efficient reading and updating of large files by consistently exploiting data locality on every copy. Its distributed metadata and lock management facilitate sequential and random I/O patterns with minimal data movement over the network. The evaluation of the AwareFS local-write protocol demonstrated efficiency across various update patterns, resulting in a performance improvement of approximately 13%, while benchmark assessments conducted across diverse cluster sizes and configurations underscored the flexibility and scalability of AwareFS. The innovative distributed mechanisms outlined herein are positioned to contribute to the evolution of emerging technologies related to the computation of data stored in large files.