bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Minimal observability of switching Boolean networks
Authors: Sun Yupeng , Fu Shihua , Xia Liyuan , Xu Jiayi
Published: September 2024

In this paper, the minimal observability of switching Boolean networks (SBNs) is investigated. Firstly, applying the semi‐tensor product (STP) method of matrices, a parallel extension system is constructed, based on which a necessary and sufficient condition to detect the observability of the SBNs is given. Secondly, when an SBN is unobservable, the specific steps to obtain the required measurements to make the system observable are given using the set reachable method; however, the measurements given in this part are not necessarily the fewest. Then, a criterion for determining the minimum number of measurements is further proposed through a constructed indicator matrix. Lastly, the effectiveness of the new results is verified by an example.
Spatial propagation in a delayed spruce budworm diffusive model
Authors: Huang Lizhuang , Xu Zhiting
Published: September 2024

We investigate the spatial propagation in a delayed spruce budworm diffusive model

where
and
represent, respectively, the incubation and the maturation delays for the spruce budworm. We find the minimal wave speed
to determine the existence of traveling wave fronts of the model. More specifically, the model admits traveling wave fronts when
; the model has no traveling wave solutions when
. The proofs are based on combining the upper and lower solutions with the approach of Wu and Zou's theorems, the limit arguments, and Laplace transform. The obtained results help us to understand the spreading patterns and the spreading speed of spruce budworm population.
3D printing of realistic body phantoms: Comparison of measured and simulated organ doses on the example of a CT scan on a pregnant woman
Authors: Kunert Patrizia , Schlattl Helmut , Trinkl Sebastian , Honorio da Silva Edilaine , Reichert Detlef , Giussani Augusto
Published: September 2024

Background

Medical examinations or treatment of pregnant women using ionizing radiation are sometimes unavoidable. In such cases, the risk of harm to the embryo and fetus after exposure to ionizing radiation must be carefully estimated. However, no commercially available anthropomorphic body phantoms of pregnant women are available for dose measurements. A promising possibility for the production of body phantoms for patient groups that are not adequately represented by the phantoms of reference persons is 3D printing. However, this approach is still in the evaluation phase.

Purpose

To print the abdomen of a woman in the late stage of pregnancy and compare the dose distribution measured using thermoluminescence dosimeters (TLDs) in the printed phantom for two different computed tomography (CT) protocols with the corresponding results of Monte Carlo simulations on voxel models of the pregnant woman.

Materials and methods

The physical phantom was produced through multi‐material extrusion printing using different print materials identified in previous studies to simulate homogeneous soft tissues and the mean compositions of maternal and fetal bones. The 3D printed abdomen was combined with a conventionally produced anthropomorphic female phantom to obtain a whole‐body phantom of a pregnant woman. Dose values resulting from two different CT scans acquired at tube voltages of 80 and 120 kV were measured using TLDs positioned in the physical phantom and cross‐validated with the results of Monte Carlo simulations performed for two different voxel models. The first was a voxelized model of the produced phantom itself and the second a realistic digital model of a pregnant woman. Representative CT values of the materials used in the printed phantom were determined from the acquired CT images.

Results

The CT values of maternal and fetal tissue structures in the phantom are comparable to CT values of real human tissues. The difference between most organ doses measured in the 3D printed phantom and simulated in the voxel models was below 20% and equivalent within the measurement uncertainties. Only the dose to the fetal head was up to 50% higher and not equivalent for the realistic model and the 80 kV‐protocol. As expected, the agreement was better for the voxelized than for the realistic model. For both models a slight energy dependence was observed, with larger deviations for the 80‐kV protocol especially for organs located in the pelvic region.

Conclusion

Individualized physical body phantoms, such as that of a pregnant woman, can be produced using 3D printing. The good agreement between measured and simulated doses to the fetus cross‐validates both dosimetric methods. Therefore, this study demonstrates the suitability of 3D printing phantoms for patients not adequately represented by commercially available body phantoms of reference persons.
Levels of grit in patients with borderline personality disorder: Description and prediction
Authors: Glass Isabel V. , Frankenburg Frances R. , Fitzmaurice Garrett M. , Zanarini Mary C.
Published: September 2024

This study describes the 6‐year course of grit scores among patients with borderline personality disorder (BPD) who have and have not experienced a symptomatic and psychosocial recovery. This study also explores predictors of grittiness in BPD patients. These patients (N = 224) were assessed as part of the McLean Study of Adult Development (MSAD). Levels of grit were assessed using the Grit Scale, a self‐report measure assessing overall grittiness and three sub‐scales of grit: consistency of interest, perseverance, and ambition. Recovered patients reported significantly higher levels of grit on three outcomes (overall grit, perseverance, and ambition) compared to non‐recovered patients across time. One temperamental factor (conscientiousness) and one childhood factor (competency) were significant multivariate predictors of overall grit scores in patients with BPD. Taken together, these results suggest that recovered BPD patients have higher levels of grit that are stable across time. These results also suggest that grit is related to both temperamental and environmental factors.
Rural gentrification, the booming B&B industry and linked migration in China: To what extent can gentrification contribute to rural revitalisation?
Authors: Chen Chen , Luo Zhanyi , Zhu Jin
Published: September 2024

Accompanying the functional transformation of rural areas from productivism to postproductivism, the rural areas with scenic views surrounding megacities are re‐evaluated in terms of their importance as destinations for visitors, especially in the case of booming bed and breakfast (B&B) industry in contemporary rural China. While private investment has generally led to improvements in the physical space and economic development of these villages, there is also concern about the negative effects of rural gentrification, such as the commercialisation of rural space, the alienation of rural culture and the displacement of indigenous residents. This study examines the multifaceted nature of rural gentrification by observing two villages within the Moganshan Mountain area—the birthplace of rural B&Bs in China, and explores how these processes have been leveraged to promote rural revitalisation. Research findings suggest that disparities in original resources and property rights allocation underpinning the B&B industries among the first‐wave gentrifiers and the local villagers, when viewed through the lens of linked migration, may lead to different socioeconomic outcomes. The B&B industry's growth can either be exclusive, primarily favouring gentrifiers, or complementary, fostering mutual benefits and learning opportunities for both gentrifiers and local villagers. Moreover, forming a collaborative network of rural villagers, returning migrants, and external elites can contribute to rural revitalisation through gentrification. These findings contribute to the theoretical understanding of rural gentrification by adding evidence from the Global South and provide insights to inform Chinese rural revitalisation policies, especially alternatives to traditional state‐led revitalisation projects.
Influence of crop rotation, the treatment of crop residues, and the application of nitrogen fertilizers on soil properties and maize yield
Authors: Mukhametov Almas , Ansabayeva Assiya , Efimov Oleg , Kamerova Anar
Published: September 2024

This inquiry is aimed at discerning the impact of various agricultural practices, such as crop rotation, the incorporation of plant residues, and the application of mineral fertilizers, on soil health and crop productivity, notably focusing on maize production. Cultivation included maize (Zea mays), velvet beans (Mucuna pruriens), soybeans (Glycine max), and vetch (Vicia sativa). After harvest, maize seeds were sown across all 48 plots to evaluate the influence of preceding crop rotation on soil properties and maize yield. Hypotheses posited in the study suggested that crop rotation, nitrogen fertilizer application, and the incorporation of crop residues positively impact soil fertility. The study further argues that the utilization of cover crops in crop rotation aids in nitrogen retention within the soil and enhances yield. The results were processed utilizing a two‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA) with interaction and post hoc comparisons. The findings confirm that crop rotation, nitrogen fertilizer application, and incorporation of crop residues influence soil fertility. The study found that crop rotation and nitrogen fertilizers have a significant impact on soil properties. Crop rotations such as “velvet beans‐maize” and “soybeans‐maize” increased soil fertility by 10%–15% compared to crop rotations of “vetch‐maize” and maize monocultures. Nitrogen fertilizers increased the total nitrogen content in the soil by 5%–10% in both years. Crop residues also positively affected soil properties, increasing pH and total nitrogen by 1%–5%. The study demonstrates that crop rotation, nitrogen fertilizers, and crop residues can be effective management methods for improving soil fertility and reducing the risk of nitrate leaching.
New Arene and/or Heteroarene‐Linked 1,3,4‐Oxadiazoles: Synthesis of Potential Methicillin‐Resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Vancomycin‐Resistant Enterococcus Inhibitors
Authors: Mekky Ahmed E. M. , Abdelbaath Rawan A. , Abdelbaath Rana A. , Marie Ahmed E. , Arafa Mohamed A. , Halim Eslam E. , Sanad Sherif M. H.
Published: September 2024

Bacterial infections, particularly those associated with methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and vancomycin‐resistant Enterococcus (VRE), threaten public health and economies, with rising antibiotic resistance resulting in more deaths yearly. In this study, we investigated the bacterial inhibitory activity of some new 1,3,4‐oxadiazoles prepared, in good yields, using a two‐step tandem protocol. Therefore, the appropriate N‐benzoylhydrazones were prepared first, then, without isolation, underwent oxidative‐cyclization in the presence of chloramine trihydrate. More 4‐acyloxyphenyl‐linked 1,3,4‐oxadiazoles were prepared by the pyridine‐mediated acylation of 2‐(4‐hydroxyphenyl)‐1,3,4‐oxadiazoles with the appropriate acyl chlorides. Some new products demonstrated good activity, particularly against S. aureus and Enterococcus faecalis strains. The 4‐(5‐(furan‐2‐yl)‐1,3,4‐oxadiazol‐2‐yl)phenyl acetate showed comparable antibacterial activity to ciprofloxacin, with MIC/MBC values up to 3.6/7.2 µM against the previous strains. Moreover, it demonstrated good inhibitory activity against different MRSA and VRE strains when compared to linezolid. It had MIC/MBC values of 7.2/14.4 and 14.4/57.8 µM against MRSA and VRE strains, respectively.
Anion Storing Boron Nitride Hybrid Nanosheets for High‐Performance Dual Ion and Zinc Alkaline Full Cells
Authors: Min Dong Hyun , Jung Mingyu , Nguyen Phuong Minh , Xiong Peixun , Lee Sang Joon , Han Xiaotong , Li Wenwu , Yu Xu , Shin Hyeyoung , Dunn Bruce , Park Ho Seok
Published: September 2024

Hexagonal boron nitride (BN), a well‐known member of 2D materials, has a structure similar to graphene and is often referred to as white graphene. Despite its unique physical and chemical properties for energy storage applications, there have been very few studies on how BN stores anion carriers. Herein, the hybrid architecture and anion storage mechanism of BN nanosheets for high‐performance hybrid energy storage full cells based on dual‐ion and Zinc (Zn) alkaline systems is demonstrated. The chemical bonding between BN and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) is attributed to the formation of the heterointerface, which facilitates the charge transfer kinetics during an OH storing process. Based on the reversible surface redox reaction of BN and rGO hybrid (BN@rGO) confirmed by computational and spectroscopic analyses, the BN@rGO electrode is applied to both Na and OH dual‐ion and Zn alkaline full cells. In the dual‐ion system, Ti3C2‖BN@rGO full cells extended the operating voltage range up to 1.7 V, delivering a cell capacity of 49.4 mAh g−1 at 1000 mA g−1 and retaining 80% of its initial capacity after 40 000 cycles. In the Zn alkaline system, Zn‖BN@rGO full cells achieved a cell capacity of 58.1 mAh g−1 at 1000 mA g−1 and retained 80% capacity over 90 000 cycles.
Enhancing E‐Healthcare Data Privacy Through Efficient Dual Signature on Twisted Edwards Curves Encryption Decryption
Authors: Farhat Suryya , Kumar Manoj , Srivastava Anshul , Bisht Shilpi , Rishiwal Vinay , Yadav Mano
Published: September 2024

This article introduces a scheme designed to ensure the integrity and privacy of e‐healthcare data. The proposed scheme combines a dual signature approach with EdDSA (Edwards‐curve Digital Signature Algorithm). It is important to note that while dual signatures may appear similar to double signatures, they differ significantly. Dual signatures involve coupling two distinct values of diverse natures to securely anonymise them to various entities. Recent research has demonstrated that elliptic curve cryptography (ECC) is better suited for resource‐constrained or lightweight devices than RSA (Rivest–Shamir–Adleman). EdDSA, an enhancement of ECDSA, offers efficient and affordable signature generation. However, EdDSA signature verification is a computationally intensive task that may not be feasible for e‐healthcare devices. Nevertheless, edge computing devices lack operational constraints and can easily handle this verification process. These characteristics make our proposal an elegant, robust, and efficient strategy for securing e‐healthcare systems and addressing the challenges of integrity and privacy. Results show that the proposed algorithm performs better in terms of key generation, signing time, verification time, encryption/decryption time and overall time as compared to the state‐of‐the‐art.
Prevalence of bovine fasciolosis and direct financial losses in cattle slaughtered in Bamenda and Bafoussam abattoirs, Western Highlands, Cameroon
Authors: Atanga Heinendez Merrius , Ntonifor Ngum Helen , Mahamat Oumar
Published: September 2024

Background

Bovine fascioliasis is a parasitic disease that affects cattle. It leads to direct and indirect great economic loss due to animal mortalities, growth retardation and expenditure on anthelmintics, reduction livestock productivity and essentially condemnation of infected liver by inspection service. The study was carried out to determine the seasonal prevalence and estimated financial losses of fascioliasis in cattle in the Western Highlands of Cameroon.

Methodology

A total of 2167 cattle were selected. Later, the cattle, have being the carcasses, were dissected, and the livers were dissected and carefully examined for adult liver flukes. Faeces were collected immediately after the cattle were killed and examined using the formol‐ether concentration technique. Condemned livers were weighted to estimate the financial losses using the average price of a kilogram of liver.

Results

A total 428 of cattle were found with infected livers or egg in the faeces giving a total prevalence of 19.75%. Among the infected carcass, 18.64% had both the Fasciola eggs in the faeces and flukes in the liver while 1.10% had only flukes in the liver. Results revealed that prevalence of Fasciola spp. was significantly higher during the rainy season (23.48%) than 16% in the dry season (p = 0.00). A significantly (p = 0.000) higher prevalence was also observed in females (33.9%) than in males (13.1%). Age range showed significant (p = 0.000) influence with the animals of 8–10 years old recorded the highest prevalence of 39.3%. Furthermore, 433.1 kg of liver was condemned giving a direct financial loss of 1221,550 FCFA (2049.64 USD) and an annual financial loss due to liver condemnation estimated to 1814,775 (3045.01 USD).

Conclusion

Findings of this study indicated that bovine fascioliasis is prevalent in cattle in the Western Highlands of Cameroon, and it leads to an important financial loss particularly in the rainy season.
Detection and characterization of multidrug resistant Escherichia coli carrying virulence gene isolated from broilers in Bangladesh
Authors: Islam Md. Sirazul , Nath Chandan , Hasib F. M. Yasir , Logno Tahia Ahmed , Uddin Md. Helal , Hassan Mohammad Mahmudul , Chowdhury Sharmin
Published: September 2024

Background

The emergence and dissemination of multidrug resistant (MDR) bacteria pose a severe threat to public health by limiting clinical treatment and prophylactic options.

Objectives

This study investigates the prevalence of Escherichia coli in broilers, their phenotypic antimicrobial resistance (AMR) profiles and the presence of virulence‐associated genes (VAGs) and antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs) using polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

Materials and methods

A total of 216 pooled cloacal samples were collected from 1080 broilers across six districts of Bangladesh. Each pooled sample comprised randomly selected cloacal swabs from five birds per farm. E. coli isolates were identified using standard bacteriological approach, followed by biochemical assays and PCR. Antimicrobial susceptibility was assessed using the Kirby–Bauer disc diffusion method, and the presence of ARGs and VAGs was determined via PCR. Five selected isolates were partially sequenced for five VAGs using Sanger sequencing.

Results

A total of 177 E. coli isolates (81.94%, 95% confidence interval: 76.24%–86.53%) were identified. The isolates showed the highest resistance to ampicillin (93.79%), followed by tetracycline (91.53%), erythromycin (89.27%) and ciprofloxacin (87%). Conversely, ceftriaxone (80.79%) showed highest susceptibility, followed by gentamicin (37.29%) and neomycin (31.07%). All isolates were MDR, with a multiple antibiotic resistance indexes were <0.3. A significant percentage (16.38%) of E. coli isolates were MDR to five antimicrobial classes and harboured blaTEM, sul1, ere (A), tetA, tetB and tetC genes. The highest prevalent ARGs were blaTEM (88.14%) followed by ere (A) (83.62%) and sul 1 (72.32%). The prevalence of VAGs was astA (56.50%), iucD (31.07%), iss (21.47%), irp2 (15.82%) and cva/cvi (3.39%), respectively.

Conclusions

This study highlights the presence of ARGs contributing to the development of MDR in E. coli carrying VAGs in broilers. Effective monitoring and surveillance of antimicrobial usage in poultry production systems are urgently required to prevent emergence and dissemination of AMR.
Effects of cinnamon, rosemary and oregano on growth performance, blood biochemistry, liver enzyme activities, excreta microbiota and ileal morphology of Campylobacter jejuni‐challenged broiler chickens
Authors: Alimohammadi Zahra , Shirzadi Hassan , Taherpour Kamran , Rahmatnejad Enayat , Khatibjoo Ali
Published: September 2024

Background

Phytogenic additives would be helpful to mitigate the detrimental impact of Campylobacter jejuni on broiler chickens.

Objective

The experiment aimed to assess the effects of cinnamon, rosemary and oregano powder on physiological responses of broiler chickens challenged with C. jejuni from 0 to 42 days of age.

Methods

A total of 192 one‐day‐old male broiler chickens were divided into 6 treatment groups. The treatments included: negative control (NC; basal diet without additives and no C. jejuni challenge), positive control (PC; basal diet with C. jejuni challenge), PC with cinnamon, rosemary or oregano powder (3 g/kg each), and PC with Erythromycin (55 mg/kg). Except for the NC group, all chicks were orally challenged with 2 × 108 CFU/mL C. jejuni daily from days 21–25. Feed intake, body weight gain (BWG), feed conversion ratio (FCR), energy efficiency ratio (EER) and protein efficiency ratio (PER) were assessed during the rearing period (0–42 days). On day 42 of age, fresh excreta samples were collected from each pen to determine apparent dry matter digestibility and excreta microbiota. In addition, at the end of the experiment, blood samples were collected to evaluate blood profile and liver enzyme activities.

Results

C. jejuni challenge (PC treatment) decreased BWG, EER and PER, while increasing FCR of broiler chickens (p < 0.05), whereas rosemary, oregano and Erythromycin improved these performance parameters akin to NC. PC diet showed negative effect in ileal morphology, alleviated by additives except cinnamon (p < 0.05). Dietary additives successfully reduced Campylobacter levels and increased Lactobacilli counts in the PC. Rosemary and oregano lowered plasma total cholesterol (p < 0.05). Alanine aminotransferase elevation by C. jejuni challenge in the PC group was prevented by rosemary, oregano and Erythromycin (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Oregano and rosemary alleviate the impact of C. jejuni challenge.
Laminar boundary layers in three‐dimensional MHD natural convective flow past a semi‐infinite vertical plate with variable sinusoidal suction
Authors: Ahmed Nazibuddin , Bormudoi Mridusmita , Gohain Dipunja
Published: September 2024

The primary goal of this study is to investigate how the diffusion‐thermo and thermo‐diffusion affect a three‐dimensional hydromagnetic natural convective flow of a radiating fluid past a uniformly moving isothermal and isosolutal semi‐infinite vertical plate subjected to a sinusoidal suction velocity. The asymptotic series expansion method is adopted to solve the equations governing the flow model and to find the analytical solutions. The effect of variable suction on the flow and transport characteristics is mainly highlighted in the study. Both the diffusion‐thermo and thermo‐diffusion effects improve the fluid velocity.
Trends and Publication Patterns of Environment–Structure–Strategy–Performance Relationship: A Bibliometric Perspective
Authors: Ștefan Simona Cătălina , Popa Ion
Published: September 2024

The present research started from the premise that although there is a long history of studying the four concepts independently and the relationships between various combinations of them, in terms of a unitary holistic approach, there is still an uncovered need in terms of empirical research. Therefore, the purpose of the bibliometric analysis, that is the subject of this chapter, is to provide a suggestive picture of the landscape created by academic papers published in the last half century on this topic. The bibliometric analysis allowed for the highlighting, from a quantitative perspective, the publication patterns and the main trends in the study of the relations between “environment”, “structure”, “strategy”, and “performances”. Although this type of analysis is based only on a collection of bibliometric data, not including the analysis of the actual content of the work, some useful conclusions could be highlighted which could guide the future course of the research.
The Virtuous Innovation-Internationalization-Performance Circle: Evidence from the Romanian ICT Sector
Authors: Burciu Aurel , Kicsi Rozalia , Danileț Alexandra
Published: September 2024

Innovation and internationalization are key drivers of competitiveness and performance of business organizations. This study aims to investigate the manifestation of the “virtuous circle” innovation—internationalization and the mediating effect exerted by performance in this circle in business practice, based on the results of a statistical survey of affiliates of multinational companies and domestic companies operating in the ICT sector in Romania. Overall, the results of the study suggest that in both domestic and multinational companies there is a dynamic bidirectional relationship between innovation and internationalization, and part of this relationship is mediated by performance. The study broadens the area of knowledge primarily by exploring this virtuous circle in knowledge-intensive sectors such as ICT, where innovative activity differs from that in traditional industrial sectors. Although there is a quite vast body of literature on the topic, previous studies have focused almost exclusively on manufacturing sectors. Second, the study explores this relationship within the particular context of an emerging economy that has undergone a long and painful process of economic, social, and political adjustment and is looking for new drivers of economic growth. Thirdly, the comparative approach is likely to capture strategic elements in the behavior of multinational companies, which can become models of good practice for domestic companies. Therefore, the findings of the study have management implications at micro and macro level. Thus, the relationship emerging among innovation, internationalization, and performance may concern macroeconomic policymakers in support of sectors with significant growth potential such as ICT. At the same time, managers should consider the potential for increasing competitiveness, both directly and indirectly, that this virtuous circle entails.
Effective Urban Management for Green Energy Transition: An Approach Based on the Scientific Research Analysis
Authors: Cicea Claudiu , Marinescu Corina
Published: September 2024

The aim of this paper is to analyse knowledge related to urban management developed to sustain the energy transition, to reveal their relationship under three structures: conceptual, intellectual, and social. In this regard, the authors synthesized key aspects that define both concepts, through an extensive literature review, establishing in this way the first items for conducting a search within the Web of Science database. The configuration of the search is described within the research methodology, which is a fundamentally sound section of the paper, well-structured, and detailed. The most relevant findings that may be emphasized are related to the following: revealed low degree of international collaboration for authors, distribution of scientific productivity that follows Lotka’s law, and “management” as an emerging theme, while “energy”, “transitions”, and “cities” as motor themes. The knowledge structure analysis also generates keywords and thematic maps, a dendrogram, a co-citation network, and a country collaboration map, all revealing insights of the research in question. The contribution brought by this paper consists in providing useful information for future review studies using bibliographic data, in shaping a view of the urban management—energy transition nexus in the scientific world and in creating a path for further studying their dynamic.
Atom-Level Quantum Pretraining Enhances the Spectral Perception of Molecular Graphs in Graphormer
Authors: Fallani Alessio , Arjona-Medina José , Chernichenko Konstantin , Nugmanov Ramil , Wegner Jörg Kurt , Tkatchenko Alexandre
Published: September 2024

This study explores the impact of pretraining Graph Transformers using atom-level quantum-mechanical features for molecular property modeling. We utilize the ADMET Therapeutic Data Commons datasets to evaluate the benefits of this approach. Our results show that pretraining on quantum atomic properties improves the performance of the Graphormer model. We conduct comparisons with two other pretraining strategies: one based on molecular quantum properties (specifically the HOMO-LUMO gap) and another using a self-supervised atom masking technique. Additionally, we employ a spectral analysis of Attention Rollout matrices to understand the underlying reasons for these performance enhancements. Our findings suggest that models pretrained on atom-level quantum mechanics are better at capturing low-frequency Laplacian eigenmodes from the molecular graphs, which correlates with improved outcomes on most evaluated downstream tasks, as measured by our custom metric.
Event-Based OpenMP Tasks for Time-Sensitive GPU-Accelerated Systems
Authors: Cetre Cyril , Yu Chenle , Royuela Sara , Barrere Rémi , Quiñones Eduardo , Gratadour Damien
Published: September 2024

The throughput-centric design of GPUs poses challenges when integrating them into time-sensitive applications. Nevertheless, modern GPU architectures and software have recently evolved, making it possible to minimize overheads and interference along the critical path through advanced mechanisms, such as GPU graphs, while sustaining high throughput. However, GPU vendors provide programming ecosystems specific to their products, raising concerns about code portability. Hence, there is a need for a hardware-agnostic API capable of managing time-sensitive GPU-accelerated pipelines. In this context, we propose integrating event-based synchronizations into the high-level OpenMP programming model to, in combination with GPU graphs, notably reduce interference and overheads over the critical path. This work showcases how this combination offers significant performance improvements and time consistency. We also enable portability across several vendor ecosystems and demonstrate our work on a set of representative applications for cyber-physical systems. According to our experiments, we measured a maximum jitter below 20 $$\upmu $$
μ
s, representing less than 5% of time variation.
Stochastic Seismic Response and Performance Safety Evaluation for 3-D High CFRD
Authors: Xu Bin , Pang Rui
Published: September 2024

It is widely recognized that high CFRDs, especially those with thinner slabs, exhibit significant three-dimensional effects. Three-dimensional finite element analysis offers a more realistic depiction of the stress distribution of the dam. However, there is a lack of studies that utilize stochastic dynamics and probabilistic analyses to investigate the seismic safety of three-dimensional CFRDs and establish corresponding safety evaluation criteria.
Stochastic Seismic Analysis and Performance Safety Evaluation for Slope Stability of High CFRDs
Authors: Xu Bin , Pang Rui
Published: September 2024

Numerous engineering cases (Guan, Sci China Ser e: Technol Sci 52:820–834, 2009; Liu et al., J Perform Constr Facil 29:04,014,129, 2015), dynamic numerical analysis (Zou et al., Comput Geotech 49:111–122, 2013; Uddin, Comput Struct 72:409–421, 1999) and dynamic physical model tests (Zhu et al., Journal of Harbin Institute of Technology 18:132–138, 2011; Liu et al., Soil Dyn Earthq Eng 82:11–23, 2016) demonstrated that the instability of dam slopes is a major engineering concern for high CFRDs under earthquake excitation. It is explicitly mandated that seismic stability calculations for earth-rock dams should be included in seismic analysis in China's Hydraulic Seismic Design Code (NB 35047–2015). The comprehensive evaluation of slope stability is further specified to consider the factors such as the position, depth, and extent of the slip surface, as well as the duration and magnitude of stability index exceeding limits.
Optimizing high-energy lithium-ion batteries: a review of single crystalline and polycrystalline nickel-rich layered cathode materials: performance, synthesis and modification
Authors: Chen Yu-Sheng , Dominko Robert , Marczewski Maciej , Wieczorek Władysław
Published: September 2024

Layered Ni-rich Li [NixCoyMnz]O2 (NMC) and Li [NixCoyAlz]O2 (NCA) cathode materials have been used in the realm of extended-range electric vehicles, primarily because of their superior energy density, cost-effectiveness, and commendable rate capability. However, they face challenges such as structural instability, cation mixing, and surface degradation, which limit their practical application. This review comprehensively discusses the synthesis, modification, and performance optimization of nickel-rich cathodes, with a focus on single-crystal (SC) NMC cathodes. The unique properties and challenges of single-crystal nickel-rich cathodes are explored in comparison to polycrystalline (PC) cathodes, with a focus on performance-enhancing strategies such as doping and surface modification.
Incidence and predictors of continued ascending aortic dilatation after TAVI in patients with bicuspid aortic stenosis
Authors: Jia Yuheng , Khokhar Arif A. , Pilgrim Thomas , Costa Giuliano , Mylotte Darren , Sammartino Sofia , Tomii Daijiro , Fosbøl Emil , Tamburino Corrado , Kofoed Klaus Fuglsang , Barbanti Marco , Windecker Stephan , Chen Mao , De Backer Ole
Published: September 2024

Background

Patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) for bicuspid aortic stenosis (AS) frequently present with ascending aortic (AAo) dilatation which is left untreated. The objective of this study was to study the natural progression and underlying mechanisms of AAo dilatation after TAVI for bicuspid AS.

Methods

Patients with a native bicuspid AS and a baseline AAo maximum diameter > 40 mm treated by TAVI and in whom post-TAVI computed tomography (CT) scans beyond 1 year were available were included. AAo dilatation was deemed to be either continuous (≥ 2 mm increase) or stable (< 2 mm increase or decrease). Uni- and multivariate logistic regression analysis was utilized in order to identify factors associated with continuous AAo dilatation post-TAVI.

Results

A total of 61 patients with a mean AAo maximum diameter of 45.6 ± 3.9 mm at baseline were evaluated. At a median follow-up of 2.9 years, AAo dimensions remained stable in 85% of patients. Continuous AAo dilatation was observed in 15% of patients at a rate of 1.4 mm/year. Factors associated with continuous AAo dilatation were raphe length/annulus mean diameter ratio (OR 4.09, 95% CI [1.40–16.7], p = 0.022), TAV eccentricity at the leaflet outflow level (OR 2.11, 95%CI [1.12–4.53], p = 0.031) and maximum transprosthetic gradient (OR 1.30, 95%CI [0.99–1.73], p = 0.058).

Conclusions

Ascending aortic dilatation in patients undergoing TAVI for bicuspid AS remains stable in the majority of patients. Factors influencing TAV stent frame geometry and function were identified to be associated with continuous AAo dilatation after TAVI; this should be confirmed in future larger cohort studies.

Graphical Abstract
Obstacle feature point detection method for real-time processing by monocular camera and line laser
Authors: Mitsuhashi Hayato , Itami Taku
Published: September 2024

In this study, we propose a method for detecting feature points of obstacles by real-time processing using a monocular camera and a laser. Specifically, we propose an algorithm that detects laser beams emitted on obstacles by binarization, transforms pixel coordinates into distance using triangulation by a laser beam that is obliquely incident on the ground, and estimates the placement angle of the obstacle in real-time processing. No method has been devised to detect the placement angle of obstacles using a monocular camera and a laser. Furthermore, the proposed method does not calculate the linear distance from the camera, but from the position where the camera is moved horizontally parallel to the obstacle in front of the camera, thus detecting the placement angle independently of the placement position of the obstacle. As a result, it was confirmed that the placement angles of obstacles could be detected with a maximum error of $$6^{\circ }$$

6
∘

in six placement positions. Therefore, we succeeded in automatically detecting the placement angle of obstacles in real-time, independent of the illumination of the measurement environment, the reflectance of the obstacle.
How to improve “construct, merge, solve and adapt"? Use reinforcement learning!
Authors: Reixach Jaume , Blum Christian
Published: September 2024

In this work, we propose a new variant of construct, merge, solve, and adapt (CMSA), which is a recently introduced hybrid metaheuristic for combinatorial optimization. Our newly proposed variant, named reinforcement learning CMSA (RL-CMSA), makes use of a reinforcement learning (RL) mechanism trained online with data gathered during the search process. In addition to generally outperforming standard CMSA, this new variant proves to be more flexible as it does not require a greedy function for the evaluation of solution components at each solution construction step. We present RL-CMSA as a general framework for enhancing CMSA by leveraging a simple RL learning process. Moreover, we study a range of specific designs for the employed learning mechanism. The advantages of the introduced CMSA variant are demonstrated in the context of the far from most string and minimum dominating set problems, showing the improvement in performance and simplicity with respect to standard CMSA. In particular, the best performing RL-CMSA variant proposed is statistically significantly better than the standard algorithm for both problems, obtaining 1.28% and 0.69% better results on average respectively.
Validation in Spanish and English of the Transgender Inclusive Behavior Scale
Authors: Alonso-Martínez Laura , Heras-Sevilla Davinia , Fernández-Hawrylak María , Hönekopp Johannes , Forrest Simon , Kattari Shanna Katz
Published: September 2024

The Transgender Inclusive Behavior Scale (TIBS) seeks to measure transgender-inclusive behavior, specifically actions and language use that support transgender people. The TIBS was developed in the United States. This study aimed to develop a Spanish version of the TIBS and confirm the structure of the English version to explore the psychometric properties and evaluate the construct validity in new contexts. We examined predictors of transgender-inclusive behavior by conducting a comparative analysis between participants from Spain and the United Kingdom. The study involved 1,110 university students, with 545 participants hailing from Spain (375 women, 162 men, and 8 non-binary individuals) and 565 participants from the United Kingdom (368 women, 178 men, and 19 non-binary individuals). Exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis were conducted to investigate and validate the factorial structure of the TIBS. The factor analysis results for the 15 items on the scale confirmed a three-dimensional structure in both languages. The scale score reliability was excellent with a Cronbach’s alpha (α) = .95 in the British sample and with an α = .89 in the Spanish sample. Being a woman, being lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer, intersex, and/or asexual, and being non-religious were the strongest predictors of inclusive behaviors towards transgender people in both countries. The correlations found indicated that people with lower sexual risk behaviors, and lower sexist, homophobic, and transphobic attitudes also presented higher inclusive behaviors towards trans people. These findings support the development of community strategies to increase the social inclusion of transgender people. The TIBS is a useful measure to track their success.
Hepsin as a potential therapeutic target for alleviating acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity via gap-junction regulation and oxidative stress modulation
Authors: Tsai Yu-Fei , Chen Chien-Hung , Wu Yao-Ming , Hung Chia-Lu , Fang Mo-Chu , Yu I.-Shing , Sheu Jin-Chuan , Hsu Yu-Chen , Lin Shu-Wha
Published: September 2024

Acetaminophen (APAP) overdose is a leading cause of drug-induced liver damage, highlighting the limitations of current emergency treatments that primarily involve administering the glutathione precursor N-acetylcysteine and supportive therapy. This study highlights the essential protective role of the type II transmembrane serine protease (TTSP), hepsin, in mitigating acetaminophen-induced liver injury, particularly through its regulation of gap junction (GJ) abundance in response to reactive oxygen stress in the liver. We previously reported that reduced levels of activated hepatocyte growth factor and the c-Met receptor tyrosine kinase—both of which are vital for maintaining cellular redox balance—combined with increased expression of GJ proteins in hepsin-deficient mice. Here, we show that hepsin deficiency in mice exacerbates acetaminophen toxicity compared to wild-type mice, leading to more severe liver pathology, elevated oxidative stress, and greater mortality within 6 h after exposure. Administering hepsin had a protective effect in both mouse models, reducing hepatotoxicity by modulating GJ abundance. Additionally, transcriptome analysis and a functional GJ inhibitor have highlighted hepsin's mechanism for managing oxidative stress. Combining hepsin with relatively low doses of N-acetylcysteine had a synergistic effect that was more efficacious than high-dose N-acetylcysteine alone. Our results illustrate the crucial role of hepsin in modulating the abundance of hepatic GJs and reducing oxidative stress, thereby offering early protection against acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity and a new, combination approach. Emerging as a promising therapeutic target, hepsin holds potential for combination therapy with N-acetylcysteine, paving the way for novel approaches in managing drug-induced liver injury.

Graphical Abstract

1. Hepsin−/− mice exhibit exacerbated APAP toxicity, resulting in more severe liver damage, elevated oxidative stress, and higher mortality.

2. Hepsin is crucial in protecting against APAP-induced liver injury by regulating gap junctions and reducing oxidative stress.

3. Combining hepsin with low doses of N-acetylcysteine provides greater protection against APAP-induced hepatotoxicity than high-dose NAC alone.
Reef fish biodiversity and occurrence of endangered sharks within a small marine protected area off Sint Maarten, Dutch Caribbean
Authors: Perisic Nathan , Hickerson Leslie , Helwitt Delhon , Norwood Daniel , Shipley Oliver N. , Bervoets Tadzio , Gallagher Austin J.
Published: September 2024

Marine protected areas (MPAs) are common conservation tools supporting the protection of threatened marine fishes, such as sharks. However, the creation of shark MPAs has been less common in the Greater Caribbean region despite a growing need and opportunity. In this study, we evaluated the occurrence of shark and reef fish biodiversity off Sint Maarten, Dutch Caribbean, with a particular emphasis on endangered shark presence within the Man of War Shoal Marine Protected Area (MPA). We utilized baited remote underwater video systems (BRUVs) to gather non-invasive data on the abundance and diversity of reef fish and shark species inside and outside the local MPA. Generalized linear models (GLMs) revealed no significant effect of protection status on the presence of the endangered Caribbean reef shark (Carcharhinus perezi). However, we found a significant influence of depth on shark occurrence, as well as an effect of habitat type on shark and reef fish biodiversity, with reef habitats showing the greatest significance. These results suggest that the effect of small coastal MPAs on bolstering local endangered species conservation in the Dutch Caribbean is likely to vary according to habitat features and how those species utilize those habitats across various life stages. These findings have implications for adaptive MPA management, which should be informed by the ecology and habitat preferences of target species to achieve maximum benefits for biodiversity conservation.
Career indecision profile-short version: validity evidence
Authors: Domingues Andreia Sofia Barreiro , da Silva José Manuel Tomás , de Albuquerque Paixão Maria Paula Barbas , da Silva David Rute Marlene Fernandes
Published: September 2024

The Career Indecision Profile-65 items (CIP-65) is an instrument with four empirically validated dimensions of career indecision: Neuroticism/Negative Affect (NNA), Choice/Commitment Anxiety (CCA), Lack of Readiness (LR), and Interpersonal Conflicts (IC). The aim of this study is to adapt and validate the CIP-65 for the Portuguese population. On the basis of a sample of students (n = 442), the results demonstrate the presence of the four theoretically proposed factors. Thus, this study evidence suggests that the CIP-65 is a measure of career indecision with cross-cultural validity, and it can be utilized in the assessment of difficulties in the decision-making of young Portuguese people.
The production and characteristics of glycogen synthesized by various strains of the thermoacidophilic red microalgae Galdieria grown heterotrophically
Authors: Kristijarti Anastasia P. , Jurak Edita , van der Maarel Marc J. E. C.
Published: September 2024

Red microalgae from the Cyanidiophyceae, particularly Galdieria sulphuraria and Cyanidioschyzon merolae, are primitive photosynthetic thermoacidophiles that thrive in acidic hot springs and geysers. Unlike most Cyanidiophyceae, Galdieria strains are metabolically flexible as they can switch from photoautotrophic growth in the light to heterotrophic growth in complete darkness. Galdieria sulphuraria is especially noteworthy for its accumulation of various commercially valuable, functional compounds such as glycogen and phycocyanin. Glycogen, a branched fractal-like polysaccharide composed of several thousands of anhydroglucopyranose units, can be added to cosmetic products and sports drinks as a moisturizer or slow-digestible carbohydrate. While the production and structural characteristics of the glycogen of G. sulphuraria 108.79, isolated from Yellowstone National Park, have been previously described, our investigation aimed to explore glycogen production and properties across various Galdieria strains from different locations. Our findings reveal that all examined strains produce substantial amounts of highly branched glycogen when grown heterotrophically on glycerol in the dark. Notably, the structural characteristics of Galdieria glycogen distinguish it from both eukaryotic and prokaryotic glycogen, exhibiting a significantly higher degree of branching, substantially shorter side chains, and a considerable extent of indigestibility. These findings support the hypothesis that this highly branched, small glycogen is a long-term energy store, enabling survival during extended periods of complete darkness.
Religious, Practical and Future-Oriented Coping Strategies to End Intimate Partner Violence: An In-Depth Examination of Ultraorthodox Israeli Women’s Narratives
Authors: Vass Anat , Krane Julia
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Much attention has been devoted to the ways in which women have made sense of, worked through, coped with, and recovered from Intimate Partner Violence (IPV), but the insights of survivors affiliated with religious minorities are scarce. The purpose of this study is to advance understandings and practices concerning the coping experiences of Ultraorthodox women (UJW) survivors of IPV. Using descriptive phenomenological methodology, in-depth semi-structured face-to-face interviews were conducted with 15 Ultraorthodox Israeli women who identified themselves as survivors of IPV.

Methods

The research design and data analysis were inspired by a phenomenological approach to document, analyze, and understand these women’s subjective experiences on this heretofore under-studied topic. Shenton’s four criteria were assessed to promote the current study’s rigor and trustworthiness.

Results

Thematic analysis revealed three core themes and seven related sub-themes: (1) Devoting time to spiritual activities (sub-themes: daily prayers and attending Jewish classes); (2) Finding inspiration in a role model (sub-themes: a woman who survived IPV, a well-appreciated rabbi); and, (3) Planning the future (sub-themes: commitment to a new project, helping other women to cope with IPV, and commitment to the future and well-being of their children).

Conclusions

An integrative synthesis of the findings reveals two distinctive forms of coping: spiritual-based and practical-based coping strategies, that demonstrate the survivors’ multifaceted perceptions and coping narrative with IPV. The strengths and limitations of this study are addressed along with implications for practice and theory.