bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stabilization of durable tetragonal phase and barrier regions in y-123 ceramic systems with partial substitution mechanism
Authors: Güdücü Gülnur , Safran Serap , Kurnaz Sedat , Tokeşer Elif Aşikuzun , Seydioğlu Turgay , Yildirim Gürcan , Öztürk Özgür
Published: July 2024

This study examines the impact of Tb and Zn doping on the Y-123 superconducting system by analyzing crack propagation mechanisms through Vickers microhardness measurements. The measurements are conducted at various application forces ranging from 0.245 N to 2.940 N. The microhardness measurements are used to determine the role of impurity addition on Vickers hardness, modulus of elasticity, brittleness index, fracture toughness, and yield strengths. It is found that impurity ions serving as strong barrier regions improve the surface residual compressive stress sites and interactivity between the adjacent layers. Similarly, the sensitivity to the external forces reduce significantly with the substitution mechanism due to the induced new slip systems and ionic bond formations. Accordingly, all the mechanical performance properties are recorded to increase significantly with the impurity ions. Especially, the replacement of Zn by Cu ions in the Y-123 matrix exhibits higher resistance to failure, mechanical strength, and stabilization of the durable tetragonal phase. Accordingly, Zn/Cu substitution in Y-123 ceramics paves the way for the applications of ceramic compounds in the fields of heavy-industrial technology and industrial power systems. All the ceramic materials also exhibit indentation size effect feature based on the recovery mechanism. Additionally, load-independent microhardness parameters are semi-empirically modeled by Meyer's law, Hays-Kendall, indentation-induced cracking, elastic–plastic deformation, and proportional sample resistance model for the first time. According to the comparisons, the IIC model is identified as the most suitable for interpreting the real microhardness results of newly produced Y-123 ceramic matrices.
Mixed effect estimation in deep compartment models: Variational methods outperform first-order approximations
Authors: Janssen Alexander , Bennis Frank C. , Cnossen Marjon H. , Mathôt Ron A. A. ,   for the OPTI-CLOT study group SYMPHONY consortium, Reitsma S. H. , Leebeek F. W. G. , Coppens M. , Fijnvandraat K. , Meijer K. , Schols S. E. M. , Eikenboom H. C. J. , Schutgens R. E. G. , Heubel-Moenen F. , Nieuwenhuizen L. , Ypma P. , Driessens M. H. E. , van Vliet I. , Kruip M. J. H. A. , Polinder S. , Brons P. , van der Meer F. J. M. , Fischer K. , van Galen K. , Collins P. W. , Mathias M. , Chowdary P. , Keeling D. , Lock J. , Hazendonk H. C. A. M. , Preijers T. , de Jager N. C. B. , Schutte L. , Bukkems L. H. , Goedhart M. C. H. J. , Heijdra J. M. , Romano L. , Al Arashi W. , Cloesmeijer M. E. , Koopman S. F. , Mussert C.
Published: July 2024

This work focusses on extending the deep compartment model (DCM) framework to the estimation of mixed-effects. By introducing random effects, model predictions can be personalized based on drug measurements, enabling the testing of different treatment schedules on an individual basis. The performance of classical first-order (FO and FOCE) and machine learning based variational inference (VI) algorithms were compared in a simulation study. In VI, posterior distributions of the random variables are approximated using variational distributions whose parameters can be directly optimized. We found that variational approximations estimated using the path derivative gradient estimator version of VI were highly accurate. Models fit on the simulated data set using the FO and VI objective functions gave similar results, with accurate predictions of both the population parameters and covariate effects. Contrastingly, models fit using FOCE depicted erratic behaviour during optimization, and resulting parameter estimates were inaccurate. Finally, we compared the performance of the methods on two real-world data sets of haemophilia A patients who received standard half-life factor VIII concentrates during prophylactic and perioperative settings. Again, models fit using FO and VI depicted similar results, although some models fit using FO presented divergent results. Again, models fit using FOCE were unstable. In conclusion, we show that mixed-effects estimation using the DCM is feasible. VI performs conditional estimation, which might lead to more accurate results in more complex models compared to the FO method.
Transition of the Simple Random Walk on the Ice Model Graph
Authors: Bressaud Xavier , Cohen Serge
Published: July 2024

The 6-vertex model holds significance in various mathematical and physical domains. The configurations of the 6-vertex model correspond to the paths in multigraphs. This article focuses on calculating the transition probability for the simple random walk on these multigraphs. An intriguing aspect of the findings is the utilization of continued fractions in the computation of the transition probability.
Do Adolescents Adopt the Prosocial Behaviors of the Classmates They Like? A Social Network Analysis on Prosocial Contagion
Authors: Chávez Daniela V. , Palacios Diego , Laninga-Wijnen Lydia , Salmivalli Christina , Garandeau Claire F. , Berger Christian , Luengo Kanacri Bernadette Paula
Published: July 2024

While the influence of high-status peers on maladaptive behaviors is well-documented, socialization processes of prosocial behavior through high-status peers remain understudied. This study examined whether adolescents’ prosocial behavior was influenced by the prosocial behavior of the peers they liked and whether this effect was stronger when the peers they liked were also well-liked by their classmates. Three waves of data, six months apart, were collected among Chilean early adolescents who completed peer nominations and ratings at Time 1 (n = 294, Mage = 13.29, SD = 0.62; 55.1% male), Time 2 (n = 282), and Time 3 (n = 275). Longitudinal social network analyses showed that adolescents adopted the prosocial behavior of the classmates they liked - especially if these classmates were well-liked by peers in general. In addition, adolescents low in likeability were more susceptible to this influence than adolescents high in likeability. The influence resulted both in increases and – especially – decreases in prosocial behavior, depending on the level of prosociality of the liked peer. Findings suggest that likeability represents an important aspect of peer status that may be crucial for understanding the significance of peer influence with respect to prosocial behaviors during adolescence. Pre-Registration: https://osf.io/u4pxm.
On the number of A-transversals in hypergraphs
Authors: Barát János , Gerbner Dániel , Halfpap Anastasia
Published: July 2024

A set S of vertices in a hypergraph is strongly independent if every hyperedge shares at most one vertex with S. We prove a sharp result for the number of maximal strongly independent sets in a 3-uniform hypergraph analogous to the Moon-Moser theorem. Given an r-uniform hypergraph $${{\mathcal {H}}}$$
H
and a non-empty set A of non-negative integers, we say that a set S is an A-transversal of $${{\mathcal {H}}}$$
H
if for any hyperedge H of $${{\mathcal {H}}}$$
H
, we have $$|H\cap S| \in A$$

|
H
∩
S
|
∈
A

. Independent sets are $$\{0,1,\dots ,r{-}1\}$$

{
0
,
1
,
⋯
,
r
-
1
}

-transversals, while strongly independent sets are $$\{0,1\}$$

{
0
,
1
}

-transversals. Note that for some sets A, there may exist hypergraphs without any A-transversals. We study the maximum number of A-transversals for every A, but we focus on the more natural sets, $$A=\{a\}$$

A
=
{
a
}

, $$A=\{0,1,\dots ,a\}$$

A
=
{
0
,
1
,
⋯
,
a
}

or A being the set of odd integers or the set of even integers.
“Think on the Bludy Serk:” Allegory and Figura in Henryson’s Minor Poem
Authors: Babich Nicholas
Published: July 2024

This essay analyzes the allegorical mode of the previously understudied poem by Robert Henryson, The Bludy Serk. In Serk, a knight saves a lady whom he loves from an evil giant, dying in the process. This story is then compared to the story of Christ's Passion, and the poem concludes by identifying the two stories as, in some sense, the same story. This narrative mode is best described using the concept of figura as understood by Erich Auerbach in his essay on the subject. Serk is the only poem in Henryson's corpus which seems to employ this manner of constructing its narrative(s) and is relatively unique among lyrical poems about Christ's Passion in the later Middle Ages. In this regard, it seems to be innovative, and merits future study by Henryson scholars and students of allegory alike.
Living in the Aftermath: Spiritual Struggles of Hong Kong Christian Women Survivors of Sexual Violence
Authors: Yih Caroline
Published: July 2024

Spiritual trauma is one of the common outcomes for Christian women trauma survivors together with other psychological challenges (McNulty & Wardle in Child Abuse & Neglect, 18, 549–555, 1994; Rudolfsson & Tidefors in Pastoral Psychology, 64, 453–467, 2015; Yih in "Business as usual": Are Hong Kong faith communities supportive to Christian women with sexual harassment trauma? under review). Victims frequently experience much disappointment with the pastoral or congregational support they receive in the aftermath of their disclosure, which critically exacerbates their primary traumatic overwhelm and causes various faith-related challenges collectively known as spiritual struggle (Doyle in Sexual abuse in the Catholic clergy: A decade of crisis, 2002–2012 (pp. 171–182). Praegar, 2011). In this paper, I critically examine the spiritual aspect within the complex processes of Hong Kong Christian women survivors of sexual violence trauma recovering from the impacts caused by the responses of the victims’ faith communities using the qualitative research methodology of interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA). The paper contributes to the growing efforts to develop an integrated and holistic provision of theologically robust and trauma-informed pastoral care for those struggling on the complex and challenging journey in the aftermath of trauma caused by sexual violence.
Construction of Jacobi forms using adjoint of the Jacobi–Serre derivative
Authors: Charan Mrityunjoy , Vaishya Lalit
Published: July 2024

In the article, we study the Oberdieck derivative defined on the space of weak Jacobi forms. We prove that the Oberdieck derivative maps a Jacobi form to a Jacobi form. Moreover, we study the adjoint of the Oberdieck derivative of a Jacobi cusp form with respect to the Petersson scalar product defined on the space of Jacobi forms. As a consequence, we also obtain the adjoint of the Jacobi–Serre derivative (defined in an unpublished work of Oberdieck). As an application, we obtain certain relations among the Fourier coefficients of Jacobi forms.
Decentralized Finance (DeFi) assurance: early evidence
Authors: Bourveau Thomas , Brendel Janja , Schoenfeld Jordan
Published: July 2024

Decentralized finance (DeFi) has emerged to offer traditional financial services such as lending, borrowing, and trading without intermediaries (e.g., banks). DeFi transactions are typically executed using a special digital class of contracts called smart contracts. These contracts are self-executing and hard-coded directly on a blockchain. We observe the emergence of a new class of voluntary audits that evaluate the integrity of these contracts. Using a hand-coded sample of about 8,500 smart contract audit reports, we provide some of the first evidence showing that (1) these audits are pervasive, (2) the audit firm market is composed of new technical audit firms, (3) the scope of these audits can span a variety of contract features, (4) the audit inputs and outputs differ substantively from those of conventional financial audits, and (5) the market reacts positively to the release of these audit reports, suggesting that these reports are value-relevant. These findings highlight the demand for novel assurance services driven by blockchain technology.
Complexity Heliophysics: A Lived and Living History of Systems and Complexity Science in Heliophysics
Authors: McGranaghan Ryan M.
Published: July 2024

This review examines complexity science in the context of Heliophysics, describing it not as a discipline, but as a paradigm. In the context of Heliophysics, complexity science is the study of a star, interplanetary environment, magnetosphere, upper and terrestrial atmospheres, and planetary surface as interacting subsystems. Complexity science studies entities in a system (e.g., electrons in an atom, planets in a solar system, individuals in a society) and their interactions, and is the nature of what emerges from these interactions. It is a paradigm that employs systems approaches and is inherently multi- and cross-scale. Heliophysics processes span at least 15 orders of magnitude in space and another 15 in time, and its reaches go well beyond our own solar system and Earth’s space environment to touch planetary, exoplanetary, and astrophysical domains. It is an uncommon domain within which to explore complexity science. After first outlining the dimensions of complexity science, the review proceeds in three epochal parts: 1) A pivotal year in the Complexity Heliophysics paradigm: 1996; 2) The transitional years that established foundations of the paradigm (1996-2010); and 3) The emergent literature largely beyond 2010. This review article excavates the lived and living history of complexity science in Heliophysics. It identifies five dimensions of complexity science, some enjoying much scholarship in Heliophysics, others that represent relative gaps in the existing research. The history reveals a grand challenge that confronts Heliophysics, as with most physical sciences, to understand the research intersection between fundamental science (e.g., complexity science) and applied science (e.g., artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI/ML)). A risk science framework is suggested as a way of formulating the grand scientific and societal challenges in a way that AI/ML and complexity science converge. The intention is to provide inspiration, help researchers think more coherently about ideas of complexity science in Heliophysics, and guide future research. It will be instructive to Heliophysics researchers, but also to any reader interested in or hoping to advance the frontier of systems and complexity science.
An all-purpose framework for affordances. Reconciling the behavioral and the neuroscientific stories
Authors: Ferretti Gabriele , Zipoli Caiani Silvano
Published: July 2024

Research on the concept of affordance generated different interpretations, which are due to different stories aimed at describing how this notion accounts for visually guided motor behaviors. On the one hand, dispositional accounts of affordances explain how affordances emerge from the encounter of the agent’s perceptual-motor skills, with an object offering possible interactions, as behavioral dispositional properties. On the other hand, cognitive neuroscience explains what neural mechanisms are required for agents to detect affordances, resulting from an internal processing. As the literature recognized, it would be beneficial to connect these two stories. We propose an important step into this connection, showing how a dispositional notion of affordance can be distinguished into two versions, the Dispositional Account of Nomological Affordance Response and the Dispositional Account of Probable Affordance Response, and how to complement different aspects of visuomotor processing for affordance extraction, discussed in neuroscience, with them. An important benefit of our proposal is that it suggests, for the first time, that we should not prefer one dispositional account at the expense of the other. Indeed, we show that different dispositional accounts can capture distinct aspects of the plethora of complex manifestations, at the neurocognitive level of visuomotor-processing, that affordances can display in humans, both in healthy and pathological subjects.
Elevated plasma protein carbonylation increases the risk of ischemic cerebrovascular events in patients with atrial fibrillation: association with a prothrombotic state
Authors: Nowak Karol , Zabczyk Michal , Natorska Joanna , Zalewski Jaroslaw , Undas Anetta
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Plasma protein carbonylation that reflects oxidative stress has been demonstrated to be associated with the prothrombotic fibrin clot phenotype. However, the role of protein carbonyls (PC) in predicting ischemic stroke in atrial fibrillation (AF) is largely unknown. This study aimed to investigate whether PC increase the risk of stroke in anticoagulated AF patients during follow-up.

Methods

In 243 AF patients on anticoagulation (median age 69 years; median CHA2DS2-VASc of 4), we measured plasma PC using the assay by Becatti, along with plasma clot permeability (Ks), clot lysis time (CLT), thrombin generation, and fibrinolytic proteins, including plasminogen activator inhibitor type 1 (PAI-1) and thrombin activatable fibrinolysis inhibitor (TAFI). Ischemic stroke, major bleeding, and mortality were recorded during a median follow-up of 53 months.

Results

Plasma PC levels (median, 3.16 [2.54–3.99] nM/mg protein) at baseline showed positive associations with age (P < 0.001), CHA2DS2-VASc (P = 0.003), and N-terminal B-type natriuretic peptide (P = 0.001), but not with type of AF or comorbidities except for heart failure (P = 0.007). PC levels were correlated with CLT (r = 0.342, P < 0.001), endogenous thrombin potential (r = 0.217, P = 0.001) and weakly with Ks (r = -0.145, P = 0.024), but not with fibrinogen, PAI-1, or TAFI levels. Stroke was recorded in 20 patients (1.9%/year), who had at baseline 36% higher PC levels (P < 0.001). Elevated PC (P = 0.003) at baseline were independently associated with stroke risk.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that in patients with AF enhanced protein carbonylation is associated with increased “residual” risk of stroke despite anticoagulation, which is at least in part due to unfavorably altered fibrin clot phenotype.

Graphical Abstract
Exopolysaccharides from Limosilactobacillus reuteri: their influence on in vitro activation of porcine monocyte-derived dendritic cells - brief report
Authors: Kiššová Zuzana , Schusterová Petra , Mudroňová Dagmar , Novotný Jaroslav , Tkáčiková Ľudmila
Published: July 2024

The aim of this study was to evaluate the immunomodulatory potential of two α-D-glucans from Limosilactobacillus reuteri L26 Biocenol™ (EPS-L26) and L. reuteri DSM17938 (EPS-DSM17938), with respect to their influence on in vitro activation of porcine dendritic cells (DCs). We used immature DCs differentiated from porcine blood monocytes under in vitro conditions. Based on the surface expression of MHC II and costimulatory CD80/86 molecules, we showed that both used EPSs favour the maturation of monocyte-derived DCs (MoDCs) similarly to the commonly used stimulant tumour necrosis factor α (TNF-α). In contrast to TNF-α stimulation, MoDCs treated with both used EPSs significantly up-regulated the mRNA levels not only for interleukin (IL)-10 (P < 0.0001 for EPS-DSM17938; P = 0.0037 for EPS-L26), but also for IL-12 (P = 0.0176 for EPS-DSM17938; P = 0.0019 for EPS-L26). These cytokines are known to regulate T-cell kinetics and play a key role in maintaining immune homeostasis. Interestingly, only relatively linear α-D-glucan (EPS-DSM17938) significantly increased gene expression of the major pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-1β (P = 0.0011) and the “SOS” cytokine IL-6 (P = 0.0127). However, it is important to highlight the need for further studies aimed at cytokine kinetics in DCs, as well as a co-culture study with allogenic T-lymphocytes.
A Systematic Review and Characterization of the Major and Most Studied Urban Soil Threats in the European Union
Authors: Binner Hannah , Wojda Piotr , Yunta Felipe , Breure Timo , Schievano Andrea , Massaro Emanuele , Jones Arwyn , Newell Jennifer , Paradelo Remigio , Popescu Boajă Iustina , Baltrėnaitė-Gedienė Edita , Tuttolomondo Teresa , Iacuzzi Nicolò , Bondi Giulia , Zupanc Vesna , Mamy Laure , Pacini Lorenza , De Feudis Mauro , Cardelli Valeria , Kicińska Alicja , Stock Michael J. , Liu Hongdou , Demiraj Erdona , Schillaci Calogero
Published: July 2024

There is an urgent need by the European Union to establish baseline levels for many widespread pollutants and to set out specific levels for these under the Zero pollution action plan. To date, few systematic reviews, superseded by bibliometric analyses, have explored this issue. Even less research has been carried out to compare the efficacy of these two data extraction approaches. This study aims to address these two issues by i) constructing an inventory of the available information on urban soils, highlighting evidence gaps and measuring compliance with the Zero pollution action plan, and by ii) comparing the methods and results of these two data extraction approaches. Through Scopus and Web of Science databases, peer-reviewed articles using the terms urban soil in combination with specific urban soil threats and/or challenges were included. Notably, both approaches retrieved a similar number of initial articles overall, while the bibliometric analysis removed fewer duplicates and excluded fewer articles overall, leaving the total number of articles included in each approach as: 603 articles in the systematic review and 2372 articles in the bibliometric analysis. Nevertheless, both approaches identified the two main urban soil threats and/or challenges to be linked to soil organic carbon and/or heavy metals. This study gives timely input into the Zero pollution action plan and makes recommendations to stakeholders within the urban context.
The performance of metabolomics-based prediction scores for mortality in older patients with solid tumors
Authors: van Holstein Yara , Mooijaart Simon P. , van Oevelen Mathijs , van Deudekom Floor J. , Vojinovic Dina , Bizzarri Daniele , van den Akker Erik B. , Noordam Raymond , Deelen Joris , van Heemst Diana , de Glas Nienke A. , Holterhues Cynthia , Labots Geert , van den Bos Frederiek , Beekman Marian , Slagboom P. Eline , van Munster Barbara C. , Portielje Johanneke E. A. , Trompet Stella
Published: July 2024

Prognostic information is needed to balance benefits and risks of cancer treatment in older patients. Metabolomics-based scores were previously developed to predict 5- and 10-year mortality (MetaboHealth) and biological age (MetaboAge). This study aims to investigate the association of MetaboHealth and MetaboAge with 1-year mortality in older patients with solid tumors, and to study their predictive value for mortality in addition to established clinical predictors. This prospective cohort study included patients aged ≥ 70 years with a solid malignant tumor, who underwent blood sampling and a geriatric assessment before treatment initiation. The outcome was all-cause 1-year mortality. Of the 192 patients, the median age was 77 years. With each SD increase of MetaboHealth, patients had a 2.32 times increased risk of mortality (HR 2.32, 95% CI 1.59–3.39). With each year increase in MetaboAge, there was a 4% increased risk of mortality (HR 1.04, 1.01–1.07). MetaboHealth and MetaboAge showed an AUC of 0.66 (0.56–0.75) and 0.60 (0.51–0.68) for mortality prediction accuracy, respectively. The AUC of a predictive model containing age, primary tumor site, distant metastasis, comorbidity, and malnutrition was 0.76 (0.68–0.83). Addition of MetaboHealth increased AUC to 0.80 (0.74–0.87) (p = 0.09) and AUC did not change with MetaboAge (0.76 (0.69–0.83) (p = 0.89)). Higher MetaboHealth and MetaboAge scores were associated with 1-year mortality. The addition of MetaboHealth to established clinical predictors only marginally improved mortality prediction in this cohort with various types of tumors. MetaboHealth may potentially improve identification of older patients vulnerable for adverse events, but numbers were too small for definitive conclusions. The TENT study is retrospectively registered at the Netherlands Trial Register (NTR), trial number NL8107. Date of registration: 22–10-2019.
Coffee consumption and cardiometabolic health: a comprehensive review of the evidence
Authors: Ungvari Zoltan , Kunutsor Setor K.
Published: July 2024

This review provides a comprehensive synthesis of longitudinal observational and interventional studies on the cardiometabolic effects of coffee consumption. It explores biological mechanisms, and clinical and policy implications, and highlights gaps in the evidence while suggesting future research directions. It also reviews evidence on the causal relationships between coffee consumption and cardiometabolic outcomes from Mendelian randomization (MR) studies. Findings indicate that while coffee may cause short-term increases in blood pressure, it does not contribute to long-term hypertension risk. There is limited evidence indicating that coffee intake might reduce the risk of metabolic syndrome and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Furthermore, coffee consumption is consistently linked with reduced risks of type 2 diabetes (T2D) and chronic kidney disease (CKD), showing dose-response relationships. The relationship between coffee and cardiovascular disease is complex, showing potential stroke prevention benefits but ambiguous effects on coronary heart disease. Moderate coffee consumption, typically ranging from 1 to 5 cups per day, is linked to a reduced risk of heart failure, while its impact on atrial fibrillation remains inconclusive. Furthermore, coffee consumption is associated with a lower risk of all-cause mortality, following a U-shaped pattern, with the largest risk reduction observed at moderate consumption levels. Except for T2D and CKD, MR studies do not robustly support a causal link between coffee consumption and adverse cardiometabolic outcomes. The potential beneficial effects of coffee on cardiometabolic health are consistent across age, sex, geographical regions, and coffee subtypes and are multi-dimensional, involving antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, lipid-modulating, insulin-sensitizing, and thermogenic effects. Based on its beneficial effects on cardiometabolic health and fundamental biological processes involved in aging, moderate coffee consumption has the potential to contribute to extending the healthspan and increasing longevity. The findings underscore the need for future research to understand the underlying mechanisms and refine health recommendations regarding coffee consumption.
Selfredepth
Authors: Duarte Alexandre , Fernandes Francisco , Pereira João M. , Moreira Catarina , Nascimento Jacinto C. , Jorge Joaquim
Published: July 2024

Depth maps produced by consumer-grade sensors suffer from inaccurate measurements and missing data from either system or scene-specific sources. Data-driven denoising algorithms can mitigate such problems; however, they require vast amounts of ground truth depth data. Recent research has tackled this limitation using self-supervised learning techniques, but it requires multiple RGB-D sensors. Moreover, most existing approaches focus on denoising single isolated depth maps or specific subjects of interest highlighting a need for methods that can effectively denoise depth maps in real-time dynamic environments. This paper extends state-of-the-art approaches for depth-denoising commodity depth devices, proposing SelfReDepth, a self-supervised deep learning technique for depth restoration, via denoising and hole-filling by inpainting of full-depth maps captured with RGB-D sensors. The algorithm targets depth data in video streams, utilizing multiple sequential depth frames coupled with color data to achieve high-quality depth videos with temporal coherence. Finally, SelfReDepth is designed to be compatible with various RGB-D sensors and usable in real-time scenarios as a pre-processing step before applying other depth-dependent algorithms. Our results demonstrate our approach’s real-time performance on real-world datasets shows that it outperforms state-of-the-art methods in denoising and restoration performance at over 30 fps on Commercial Depth Cameras, with potential benefits for augmented and mixed-reality applications.
A note on exponential polynomials
Authors: Fornasiero Antongiulio , Terzo Giuseppina
Published: July 2024

We investigate the zero sets of complex exponential polynomials in one variable with only one iteration. We characterize when such polynomials have the same zero set in terms of the radical ideals. Moreover we give a bound on the multiplicity of zeros.
State-of-the-Art Review on Determining One-Dimensional Consolidation Parameters Based on Compression and Distribution of Pore Water Pressure: Coefficient of Consolidation (cv), End of Primary (EOP) Consolidation
Authors: Olek Bartłomiej Szczepan
Published: July 2024

Predicting the time rate of consolidation is one of the major aspects of structure design, founded on compressible fine-grained soil. The time to achieve the required advancement of the consolidation process is proportional to the coefficient of consolidation (c

v
). In practical applications, the settlement rate is directly related to the excess pore water pressure dissipation rate. A plethora of interpretation methods have been proposed for determining consolidation parameters from laboratory one-dimensional consolidation test in the past decades. This state-of-the-art review presents a comprehensive literature study of available approaches for establishing both coefficient of consolidation and end of primary (EOP) consolidation using compression and pore water pressure laboratory data. The classification of the methods has been made to set in order interpretation approaches for future selection and comparisons. The first part of the paper describes approaches based on graphical curve-fitting. This part includes five approaches: square root of time fitting approach, Semi-logarithmic fitting approach, Differential methods, Hyperbolic approach, and approach based on excess pore water pressure dissipation. In addition, a method comparison study has been performed to evaluate the degree of agreement between selected methods statistically. For this purpose, simple regression and Bland & Altman differences analysis have been used. The second part refers to the computational-based approach, covering a wide range of methods centred on full-matching treated by least-squares, correlational equations linking c

v
with index properties and soft computing approaches. A thorough insight into recently published literature on machine learning and physics-informed deep learning incorporated to derive the representative value of c

v
has also been compiled.
Comparison of coronary CT angiography and invasive coronary angiography results
Authors: Tekinhatun Muhammed , Akbudak İbrahim , Özbek Mehmet , Turmak Mehmet
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a leading cause of death worldwide. Accurate diagnosis and management are critical. Non-invasive imaging, such as coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA), is vital for early diagnosis and treatment planning. This study evaluates the accuracy of CAD-Reporting and Data System (CAD-RADS) scoring and the compatibility between CCTA and invasive coronary angiography (ICA) in patients suspected of having CAD.

Materials and methods

From January 1, 2022 to January 15, 2024, 214 patients suspected of CAD underwent both CCTA and ICA. CCTA artifacts led to the exclusion of 32 patients and 128 vessels, leaving 586 vessels for analysis. CAD-RADS scoring categorized coronary stenosis. Diagnostic performance was measured by specificity, sensitivity, accuracy, positive and negative predictive value (NPV). Extracardiac findings were analyzed with a wide field of view (FOV) during CCTA.

Results

A total of 214 patients (67.3% male, median age 56) were examined. Hypertension, smoking, calcium score, and high-risk plaques correlated with CCTA and ICA CAD-RADS scores; calcium score also related to hypertension, smoking, diabetes, and dyslipidemia (p < 0.05). CCTA showed a sensitivity of 80.8% and NPV of 90.3% for detecting stenosis of 70% or more; for 50% stenosis, sensitivity was 93.5% and NPV 92.1%. Agreement between CCTA and ICA was excellent in bypass patients; stenosis detection in stented patients had 85.7% sensitivity and 96.2% NPV.

Conclusion

This study highlights the importance of CAD-RADS and CCTA in CAD diagnosis and treatment planning. CCTA effectively evaluates stents and grafts, emphasizing the benefits of extracardiac findings and a wide FOV.
Post-truth and post-trust: how to re-define trust in the judicial system and the media
Authors: Bayer Judit
Published: July 2024

This article revisits the rational and symbolic elements of assumed and earned trust, and how social and political trust is intertwined with trust in the judiciary and the media, as key control points in a democratic system. As such, they are also primary targets of populist-autocratic movements. The article enumerates how the transformation of the information environment has shattered traditional structures and opened new ways of questioning existing injustices. The result is an information landscape which is not only post-truth but also post-trust. New methods and processes of institutionalising processes of earning trust and structuring distrust have become necessary.
Construction of Gene Expression Profiles of the NAC Transcription Factor Family in Sugar Beet Under Abiotic Stress
Authors: Sun Yaqing , Li Changlun , Li Zhi , Jian Caiyuan , Li Ningning , Zhang Shaoying , Li Guolong
Published: July 2024

Sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L.) is a major sugar crop in China and an economic crop with regional advantages in the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. Currently, abiotic stresses are among the main factors restricting the high-quality development of the sugar beet industry. Recent research has shown that NAC transcription factors play an important role in regulating plant growth and development, as well as in resisting abiotic stress. To determine the specific expression of the NAC transcription factor family in different organs of sugar beet under different abiotic stress conditions, this study systematically analyzed the expression response of 52 members of the NAC transcription factor family in different organs to abiotic stress conditions using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction technique. The responses of NAC transcription factor genes to different abiotic stresses were identified in sugar beet leaves and roots; 18 and 17 NAC transcription factor genes were found to respond specifically to abiotic stress in sugar beet leaves and roots, respectively. The research results provide a reference basis for using NAC transcription factors to develop stress-resistant germplasm resources in sugar beets.
Energy management system in networked microgrids: an overview
Authors: Rodriguez-Gil Jhojan A. , Mojica-Nava Eduardo , Vargas-Medina Daniel , Arevalo-Castiblanco Miguel F. , Cortes Camilo A. , Rivera Sergio , Cortes-Romero John
Published: July 2024

Energy management systems (EMS) play a crucial role in ensuring efficient and reliable operation of networked microgrids (NMGs), which have gained significant attention as a means to integrate renewable energy resources and enhance grid resilience. This paper provides an overview of energy management systems in NMGs, encompassing various aspects including system architecture, optimization algorithms, control strategies, and integration of distributed energy resources. The paper highlights the challenges and opportunities associated with energy management in NMGs and presents key approaches and technologies adopted in the field. Furthermore, it explores the implications of emerging trends such as data-driven modeling, machine learning, and advanced communication technologies on the design and performance of energy management systems in networked microgrids. Through this comprehensive overview, the paper aims to provide researchers, practitioners, and policymakers with valuable insights into the state-of-the-art developments and future directions in energy management systems for networked microgrids.
Characteristics of adult retroperitoneal lymphangioma: a single center Chinese cohort study of 15 cases
Authors: Liu Jie , Zhong Zhi-Han , Zheng Shu-Sen
Published: July 2024

Background

Lymphangioma is a rare cystic tumor that occurs across different locations. Retroperitoneal lymphangioma accounts for about 1% of all lymphangiomas. In this study, we report the clinicopathological features of retroperitoneal lymphangioma and describe our experience in treating this disease.

Methods

We collected clinical data from all patients who were pathologically diagnosed with retroperitoneal lymphangioma at Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, between June 2013 and August 2022.

Results

The 7 and 8 male and female patients analyzed herein had a mean age of 48.6 (SD 14.24) years at diagnosis. The mean duration of follow-up was 4.7 years. Among them, 66.67% were asymptomatic, with the rest manifesting abdominal pain, nausea, low back pain and elevated blood pressure as the main symptoms. Preoperative diagnosis and evaluation of cysts were mainly performed via computed tomography (CT) (n = 10, 66.67%) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) (n = 8, 53.33%). All patients were completely resected following surgery. Immunohistochemical analysis, performed on 6 patients, revealed that they were positive for D2-40. A total of 4, 4 and 3 patients were positive for CD31, CD34 and SMA, respectively. Moreover, the study cohort had an average postoperative hospital stay of 6.6 days. Follow up, after the end of the study, revealed no relapse in any of the 15 patients.

Conclusions

Lymphangioma is a benign tumor of the lymphatic system. Although typical imaging features can be accurate for preoperative diagnosis, histological examination is crucial to final confirmation. Complete surgical resection is the best option to limit the risk of recurrence in cases with symptomatic lesions.
Identification of hydrochemical processes of groundwater in Nekor-Ghiss plain (Morocco): using the application of multivariate statistics and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to map groundwater
Authors: El khalki Soukaina , Ghalit Mohammad , Elbarghmi Rachida , Azzaoui Khalil , Jodeh Shehdeh , Hanbali Ghadir , Lamhamdi Abdellatif
Published: July 2024

In arid and semiarid zones, groundwater is a vital and indispensable natural resource. Indeed, these water resources have become extremely limited due to several factors, including climate change, salinization, and overexploitation. This study covers the hydrochemical characterization of groundwater in the Nekor-Ghiss plain which is located in northern Morocco. To achieve this objective, a set of 79 water samples was analyzed, for various physical and chemical parameters of the samples, including E.C, pH, TDS, HCO3−, SO42−, Ca2+, Mg2+, Na+, K+, PO43−, NO3−, NO2− and NH4+. Several methods were used to interpret the hydrochemical data, namely graphical methods, principal component analysis (PCA), hierarchical ascending classification, and ion exchange indices. A detailed geochemical study of groundwater is described to identify the origin of the chemical composition of groundwater. The results show that the samples studied are characterized by very high mineralization (> 1500 mg/l), with the predominance of Na+, Cl− and SO42− ions. The interpretation of geochemical signatures of groundwater in the Nekor-Ghiss plain shows sulfate-sodium (Na–SO4) and chloride-sodium (Na–Cl) facies. Natural geochemical processes are responsible for water regulation, while human activities exert a limited influence on this control. Marine intrusion, evaporation, and the ion exchange process largely control the chemistry of the aquifer. Using PCA to confirm controlled water chemistry processes revealed three homogeneous groups. The study contributes to a better understanding of the quality and mineralization of groundwater in the Nekor-Ghiss plain, and it will serve as a reference for other plains with similar characteristics.
Challenges for Non-Classical Reasoning in Contemporary AI Applications
Authors: Steen Alexander , Benzmüller Christoph
Published: July 2024

In knowledge representation and reasoning, a key area in artificial intelligence research, non-classical logics play a prominent double role: firstly, non-classical logic languages allow for a precise and transparent encoding of domain specific knowledge. Secondly, as the logical languages are equipped with custom-tailored rules of logical inference, they make available a principled approach to derive new knowledge from previous information. In practice, the first aspect addresses data storage and retrieval, the second aspect the utilization of available information. This article briefly surveys contemporary challenges of NCL research in AI.
Comprehensive multiomics analysis of the signatures of gastric mucosal bacteria and plasma metabolites across different stomach microhabitats in the development of gastric cancer
Authors: Wang Bingsen , Luan Jiahui , Zhao Weidong , Yu Junbao , Li Anqing , Li Xinxin , Zhong Xiaoqin , Cao Hongyun , Wang Ruicai , Liu Bo , Lu Shiyong , Shi Mei
Published: July 2024

Purpose

As an important component of the microenvironment, the gastric microbiota and its metabolites are associated with tumour occurrence, progression, and metastasis. However, the relationship between the gastric microbiota and the development of gastric cancer is unclear. The present study investigated the role of the gastric mucosa microbiome and metabolites as aetiological factors in gastric carcinogenesis.

Methods

Gastric biopsies from different stomach microhabitats (n = 70) were subjected to 16S rRNA gene sequencing, and blood samples (n = 95) were subjected to untargeted metabolome (gas chromatography‒mass spectrometry, GC‒MS) analyses. The datasets were analysed using various bioinformatics approaches.

Results

The microbiota diversity and community composition markedly changed during gastric carcinogenesis. High Helicobacter. pylori colonization modified the overall diversity and composition of the microbiota associated with gastritis and cancer in the stomach. Most importantly, analysis of the functional features of the microbiota revealed that nitrate reductase genes were significantly enriched in the tumoral microbiota, while urease-producing genes were significantly enriched in the microbiota of H. pylori-positive patients. A panel of 81 metabolites was constructed to discriminate gastric cancer patients from gastritis patients, and a panel of 15 metabolites was constructed to discriminate H. pylori-
positive
patients from H. pylori-negative patients. receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve analysis identified a series of gastric microbes and plasma metabolites as potential biomarkers of gastric cancer.

Conclusion

The present study identified a series of signatures that may play important roles in gastric carcinogenesis and have the potential to be used as biomarkers for diagnosis and for the surveillance of gastric cancer patients with minimal invasiveness.
Does Low Memory Confidence Drive Excessive Reassurance Seeking in Obsessive–Compulsive Disorder? Insights from a Novel In Vivo Study
Authors: Champion Sophie M. , Grisham Jessica R.
Published: July 2024

The factors driving excessive reassurance seeking in obsessive–compulsive disorder are incompletely understood. We investigated whether low memory confidence, which drives compulsive checking, may also lead to excessive reassurance seeking during a novel in vivo contamination-based task. Undergraduates (N = 91) completed a memory test and received sham positive or negative performance feedback. Participants then viewed a complicated cleaning video and completed a corresponding cleaning task whilst their reassurance seeking was covertly coded. Afterwards, participants rated their anxiety, confidence, and experimenter responsibility for task outcomes. The novel laboratory task induced high levels of reassurance seeking from participants (median = 5 reassurance requests). There was no evidence that manipulating memory confidence altered reassurance seeking. Greater reassurance seeking was correlated with decreased performance confidence and increased ratings of experimenter responsibility for negative cleaning task outcomes. Memory beliefs may not initiate reassurance seeking, suggesting a possible dissimilarity between reassurance seeking and compulsive checking.
Impact of Additive Manufacturing Surface Roughness on the Aerodynamic Performance of Axial Compressor Blades
Authors: Lim Sukhyeon , Ko Youngeon , Hong Dunam , Kim Myungho , Song Seung Jin
Published: July 2024

This paper investigates the influence of additive manufacturing (AM) surface roughness on the aerodynamic performance of axial compressor blades. Though the AM offers advantages such as complex geometry fabrication and reduced material waste, its inherent surface roughness presents challenges in meeting compressor performance requirements. Previous studies have explored the implications of surface roughness on compressor performance. However, the existing literature on surface roughness does not sufficiently address the effects of AM surface roughness on the aerodynamic performance of compressor blades. Hence, in this paper, a linear compressor cascade experiment has been conducted at a Reynolds number

$${Re}_{C}$$

Re

C

= 300,000. Three different roughness Reynold numbers,

$${k}_{s}^{+}$$

k

s

+

, have been examined—1.64 for the smooth blade, 24.5 and 43.8 for the rough 1 and rough 2 blades, respectively. Compared to the smooth blade, the pitchwise mass-averaged deviation and loss of the Rough 1 blade increase by 6.3% and 39.6%, respectively. For the Rough 2 blade, there is an increase of 18.4% and 98.8% in deviation and loss compared to the smooth blade, indicating a non-linear relationship between the deviation and loss, and

$${k}_{s}^{+}$$

k

s

+

.
Spatial dynamics of human-hyena conflicts in villages surrounding Mkomazi National Park, Tanzania
Authors: Mbise Franco Peniel
Published: July 2024

This study investigated the dynamics of perceived livestock depredation over the last 2 years (from 2021 to 2022) in villages close to Mkomazi National Park in Tanzania. The findings revealed that sheep were the most frequently affected livestock (57.1%), followed by goats (36.7%) and cattle (6.1%). Attacks primarily occurred at home (59.2%) and during the night (65.3%), with a higher prevalence during the dry season (75.5%). The majority of respondents (81.6%) perceived a decrease in attacks. Logistic regression indicated village proximity to the park as a significant predictor in explaining the reported incidents related with livestock depredation, with closer villages experiencing higher risks. Gender, age, education level, and resident status showed no significant correlation with the reported livestock depredation incidents. Spotted hyena sightings varied significantly based on village proximity to the park (p = 0.039), while other factors showed no significant differences. Mitigation measures against livestock depredation included guarding livestock (28.3%), employing noise and scaring tactics (42.2%), and utilizing domestic dogs (29.4%). These findings offer valuable insights into human-wildlife conflicts and inform targeted interventions for mitigating livestock losses not only in the surveyed villages but also in other areas globally facing similar challenges.