bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Limonene enhances rice plant resistance to a piercing‐sucking herbivore and rice pathogens
Authors: Qiu Chang‐Lai , Li Wei , Wang Ling‐Nan , Wang Shi‐Cheng , Falert Supaporn , Wang Chao , Yu Shi‐Yu , Abdelkhalek Sara Taha , Lu Jing , Lin Yong‐Jun , Wang Man‐Qun
Published: September 2024

Terpene synthases (TPSs) are key enzymes in terpenoids synthesis of plants and play crucial roles in regulating plant defence against pests and diseases. Here, we report the functional characterization of OsTPS19 and OsTPS20, which were upregulated by the attack of brown planthopper (BPH). BPH female adults performed concentration‐dependent behavioural responses to (S)‐limonene showing preference behaviour at low concentrations and avoidance behaviour at high concentrations. Overexpression lines of OsTPS19 and OsTPS20, which emitted higher amounts of the monoterpene (S)‐limonene, decreased the hatching rate of BPH eggs, reduced the lesion length of sheath blight caused by Rhizoctonia solani and bacterial blight caused by Xanthomonas oryzae. While knockout lines of OsTPS19 and OsTPS20, which emitted lower amounts of (S)‐limonene, were more susceptible to these pathogens. Overexpression of OsTPS19 and OsTPS20 in rice plants had adverse effects on the incidence of BPH, rice blast, and sheath blight in the field and had no significant impacts on rice yield traits. OsTPS19 and OsTPS20 were found to be involved in fine‐tuning the emission of (S)‐limonene in rice plants and play an important role in defence against both BPH and rice pathogens.
Detection of QTNs and QTN‐by‐Environment and QTN‐by‐QTN Interactions for Cottonseed Oil Content in Upland Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.)
Authors: Ma Guogang , Yang Yejun , Zhao Haihong , Qu Yunfang , Li Chengqi
Published: September 2024

Cottonseed oil is a high‐quality edible oil. A comprehensive analysis of the genetic basis of cottonseed oil formation at the molecular level will greatly promote the molecular improvement of this trait. This study performed a genome‐wide association study involving three modules integrated into the 3VmrMLM framework for cottonseed oil content (COC). In total, 49,533 single‐nucleotide polymorphisms were screened across 152 upland cotton accessions. Twenty‐six, 10 and 26 quantitative trait nucleotides (QTNs) for COC were respectively detected by the three modules: Single_env, Multi_env and Epistasis. Eight QTNs were simultaneously detected in at least two datasets or by at least two modules, and four genes associated with the stable QTNs were simultaneously enriched in GO and KEGG analyses. Using Multi_env, five QTN‐by‐environment interactions were detected, and six genes were simultaneously enriched in GO and KEGG analyses. Using Epistasis, 10 QTN‐by‐QTN interactions (QQIs) were detected, and eight protein–protein interactions involving six QQIs and eight gene pairs were predicted by a protein–protein interaction analysis. These findings provide novel insights into the genetic basis of COC.
Assessing the impacts of Brazil's expenditure ceiling with a multiple‐household CGE model
Authors: Cardoso Guilherme Silva , Cardoso Débora Freire , Domingues Edson Paulo
Published: September 2024

Inspired by the Brazilian pre‐COVID‐19 pandemic context of fiscal austerity, we have applied a multiple‐household‐SAM‐based Computable General Equilibrium (CGE) model in order to analyze the economic impacts of different scenarios of government expenditure. We innovate at modeling an Expansionary Austerity scenario in a CGE framework and also by taking into account services of public health and education as part of the households extended income. Consistent with the literature, we verified that the expenditure ceiling can insure both Government savings and current account balance toward surplus. Apart from that, however, these surpluses have nothing to do with output and welfare improvement—even under a scenario where the expenditure ceiling “makes room” for the private investment.
Minding the gap: How transplant infectious disease can help close the organ donation gap
Authors: Sigler Rachel , Law Nancy
Published: September 2024

This paper is an educationally focused article discussing how transplant infectious diseases (TID) providers balance the risks of accepting or rejecting an organ and have pushed barriers in organ transplantation. We emphasize the role TID providers play in the transplantation process as critical players on the transplant team. We discuss various donor‐derived infections that were previously deemed unacceptable for donation due to concerns for transmission. Advances in medical knowledge have changed some of these situations. We discuss the critical role TID providers have in closing the gap between the thousands of patients on organ waitlists and the organ deficit faced each day. We believe TID providers have a unique opportunity to expand the donor pool by increasing education, expanding acceptable organ definitions, and expanding the boundaries of what we can do with potentially transmissible infections in organ transplantation.
Neurocardiology: translational advancements and potential
Authors: Herring N. , Ajijola O. A. , Foreman R. D. , Gourine A. V. , Green A. L. , Osborn J. , Paterson D. J. , Paton J. F. R. , Ripplinger C. M. , Smith C. , Vrabec T. L. , Wang H. J. , Zucker I. H. , Ardell J. L.
Published: September 2024

In our original white paper published in the The Journal of Physiology in 2016, we set out our knowledge of the structural and functional organization of cardiac autonomic control, how it remodels during disease, and approaches to exploit such knowledge for autonomic regulation therapy. The aim of this update is to build on this original blueprint, highlighting the significant progress which has been made in the field since and major challenges and opportunities that exist with regard to translation. Imbalances in autonomic responses, while beneficial in the short term, ultimately contribute to the evolution of cardiac pathology. As our understanding emerges of where and how to target in terms of actuators (including the heart and intracardiac nervous system (ICNS), stellate ganglia, dorsal root ganglia (DRG), vagus nerve, brainstem, and even higher centres), there is also a need to develop sensor technology to respond to appropriate biomarkers (electrophysiological, mechanical, and molecular) such that closed‐loop autonomic regulation therapies can evolve. The goal is to work with endogenous control systems, rather than in opposition to them, to improve outcomes.

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Changes in intra‐ and interlimb reflexes from forelimb cutaneous afferents after staggered thoracic lateral hemisections during locomotion in cats
Authors: Mari Stephen , Lecomte Charly G. , Merlet Angèle N. , Audet Johannie , Yassine Sirine , Arab Rasha Al , Harnie Jonathan , Rybak Ilya A. , Prilutsky Boris I. , Frigon Alain
Published: September 2024

In quadrupeds, such as cats, cutaneous afferents from the forepaw dorsum signal external perturbations and send inputs to spinal circuits to co‐ordinate the activity in muscles of all four limbs. How these cutaneous reflex pathways from forelimb afferents are reorganized after an incomplete spinal cord injury is not clear. Using a staggered thoracic lateral hemisections paradigm, we investigated changes in intralimb and interlimb reflex pathways by electrically stimulating the left and right superficial radial nerves in seven adult cats and recording reflex responses in five forelimb and ten hindlimb muscles. After the first (right T5–T6) and second (left T10–T11) hemisections, forelimb–hindlimb co‐ordination was altered and weakened. After the second hemisection, cats required balance assistance to perform quadrupedal locomotion. Short‐, mid‐ and long‐latency homonymous and crossed reflex responses in forelimb muscles and their phase modulation remained largely unaffected after staggered hemisections. The occurrence of homolateral and diagonal mid‐ and long‐latency responses in hindlimb muscles evoked with left and right superficial radial nerve stimulation was significantly reduced at the first time point after the first hemisection, but partially recovered at the second time point with left superficial radial nerve stimulation. These responses were lost or reduced after the second hemisection. When present, all reflex responses, including homolateral and diagonal, maintained their phase‐dependent modulation. Therefore, our results show a considerable loss in cutaneous reflex transmission from cervical to lumbar levels after incomplete spinal cord injury, albeit with preservation of phase modulation, probably affecting functional responses to external perturbations.

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Key points

Cutaneous afferent inputs co‐ordinate muscle activity in the four limbs during locomotion when the forepaw dorsum contacts an obstacle.

Thoracic spinal cord injury disrupts communication between spinal locomotor centres located at cervical and lumbar levels, impairing balance and limb co‐ordination.

We investigated cutaneous reflexes from forelimb afferents during quadrupedal locomotion by electrically stimulating the superficial radial nerve bilaterally, before and after staggered lateral thoracic hemisections in cats.

We showed a loss/reduction of mid‐ and long‐latency homolateral and diagonal reflex responses in hindlimb muscles early after the first hemisection that partially recovered with left superficial radial nerve stimulation, before being reduced after the second hemisection.

Targeting cutaneous reflex pathways from forelimb afferents projecting to the four limbs could help develop therapeutic approaches aimed at restoring transmission in ascending and descending spinal pathways.
Innovative Pressure Control With ANFIS-Enhanced Mode Switching for High-Speed Pneumatic Systems
Authors: Sun Guoxin , Li Shuaipeng , Yu Qihui , Zhang Jiabao , Ni Haoming
Published: September 2024

A pressure servosystem, with compressed air as its primary power source, plays a pivotal role in automotive braking. The substitution of expensive proportional valves with high-speed switching valves (HSVs) for chamber pressure control remains a prominent challenge for researchers. In addressing the single-chamber dual-valve pressure tracking system, a novel approach is proposed using an adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) that enhances fuzzy control through neural network refinement. Integration with mode switching is employed to ameliorate chamber pressure tracking performance. This strategy amalgamates the learning capability of neural networks with the inferential capacity of fuzzy logic, effectively handling the intricate nonlinear characteristics of pneumatic systems. Experimental results demonstrate that for step signals in the range of 0.3–0.6 MPa, the maximum overshoot is reduced to 0.0041 MPa, and the random step error ranges between −0.01287 and 0.01275 MPa. The relative root-mean-square error for a 0.5 Hz harmonic signal is diminished by 26.91%.
On a Class of Periodic Inputs That Passively Quench the Superharmonic Resonance of a Symmetric Duffing Oscillator
Authors: Daqaq Mohammed F.
Published: September 2024

The symmetric monostable Duffing oscillator exhibits a superharmonic resonance of order three when excited harmonically at an excitation frequency that is one third its linear natural frequency. In this letter, it is shown that a certain class of periodic excitations can inherently quench the superharmonic resonance of order three. The Fourier series expansion of such excitations yields a harmonic component at the natural frequency whose magnitude can be properly tuned to completely quench the effect of the superharmonic component. Based on this understanding, the parameters of a piecewise periodic function and the modulus of the cosine Jacobi elliptic function are intentionally designed to passively suppress the superharmonic resonance. Such periodic functions can be used to replace single-frequency harmonic excitations whenever the effects of the superharmonic resonance are to be passively mitigated.
Experimental Measurements of Buoyancy-Induced Flow in Rotating Cavities Under High Reynolds Number Conditions
Authors: Puttock-Brown Mark R. , Kanjirakkad Vasudevan
Published: September 2024

The buoyancy-induced flow structure and heat transfer in rotating cavities is a well-known conjugate problem. The disk temperatures affect the flow and vice versa. This creates a challenging environment to study as it is three-dimensional, unstable, and unsteady. Further, the vast timescale range between the flow and thermal transients on the disks proves impractical to simulate within rapid engine design cycles, requiring validated reduced-order physics-based models. Literature has established the relationship between the temperature of the core and heat transfer and how this is affected by compressibility, resulting in a critical Reynolds number at which disk Nusselt number is maximum. This work presents new thermal measurements of a rotating cavity at engine representative conditions under elevated test section absolute pressure from the Sussex Multiple Cavity Rig (MCR). The axial throughflow temperature rise is recorded by shaft mounted thermocouple rakes, offering the opportunity for first-order energy balance estimates. By increasing the density of the throughflow air, this allows the investigation at Reθ and Gr rarely published from academic facilities, providing further insights into the interplay between the governing nondimensional parameters. The results have shown, for all comparable cases of constant Ro, increasing Reθ has reduced disk surface temperatures. Despite elevated Gr > 1013 and high temperature gradients, there is no conclusive evidence of thermal stratification and the associated sharp reduction in shroud heat transfer.
Aerodynamic Study of a Horizontal Axis Wind Turbine in Surge Motion Under Angular Speed and Blade Pitch Controls
Authors: Firpo Agnese , Sanvito Andrea Giuseppe , Dossena Vincenzo , Persico Giacomo
Published: September 2024

Floating offshore wind turbines (FOWTs) experience dynamic conditions due to platform motion, requiring specific control strategies to mitigate loads and promote the wake diffusion improving overall wind farm efficiency. These problems can be appropriately modeled by medium-fidelity solvers, which rely on a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) resolution of the flow while avoiding its detailed resolution around the blades, preserving high-fidelity in simulating the wake at an acceptable computational cost. This work adopts a medium-fidelity actuator line model (ALM), implemented in the openfoam environment, previously validated against experiments and multifidelity models in the frame of the OC6 Phase III project. The study analyses several operating conditions during surge motion: a variable angular speed in below-rated condition, conceived to maximize the turbine efficiency, and a collective blade pitch control employable in above-rated conditions to limit surge-induced loads fluctuations. The effect of each control strategy is assessed individually through a systematic comparison with the baseline case with constant angular speed and blade pitch. Results indicate that the angular speed control succeeds in increasing the turbine power and reduces the spanwise variability of the induction factor amplitudes. Conversely, the pitch angle control reduces the force amplitude but does not alter the spanwise trend of the induction factor amplitude.
Numerical analysis of Gaussian potential patches model depending on the substrate doping in inhomogeneous Schottky barrier diodes over a wide temperature range
Authors: Turut Abdulmecit
Published: October 2024

The current-voltage (I-V-T) characteristics of an inhomogeneous n-type GaAs Schottky barrier diode have been investigated by numerical analysis using the modified thermionic emission (TE) current equation by Tung in the 40–320 K range at 40 K intervals. This total current (TC) equation consists of TE current and the patch current components. The patch current dominates through the low Schottky barrier height patches at low temperatures. From the I-V-T characteristics given for three different standard deviations (σ) at each substrate doping value Nd, we have determined the temperatures at which the patch current begins to dominate. The starting temperature of the patch current has decreased as the σ and Nd values decrease. It has been seen that the temperature at which the patch current component begins to dominate is about 120, 80, and 60 K for σ4, σ3, and σ2 at Nd=1.0×1014cm−3 or Nd=1.0×1015cm−3, respectively; 160, 120, and 80 K at Nd=5.0×1015cm−3; and 200, 160, and 80 K at Nd=1.0×1016cm−3, respectively. Moreover, for the substrate with high doping, it has been observed that the I-V curve of the patch current component or the TC shifts toward higher voltages than the expected position at low temperatures. Thus, from the I-V-T characteristics, it has appeared that Tung’s pinch-off model tends to be more applicable to lightly doped semiconductors. Moreover, the TC equation should be used at high temperatures because the I-V curves at high temperatures belong to the TE component, and the patch current expression without the TE component should be especially used for fit to the experimental curves at low temperatures.
Rare presentation and unconventional treatment of Rosai–Dorfman disease
Authors: Proskuriakova Ekaterina , Shunyakov Leonid , S Hoffmann Marc
Published: October 2024

Rosai–Dorfman disease (RDD) is a rare myeloproliferative disorder involving histiocytes, with an incidence of 1:200 000 and approximately 100 new cases diagnosed annually in the USA. The condition presents a diverse range of clinical manifestations, and early recognition and treatment generally result in a favourable prognosis. However, diagnosing RDD poses challenges due to its rarity. The clinical management of RDD lacks a consensus, further complicating its diagnostic and therapeutic approach. We present a case of a man in his late 50s with RDD who experienced worsening cytopenias, including severe neutropenia and respiratory distress, despite an initial positive response to steroids, rituximab and lenalidomide. Genetic testing revealed mutations in POLE, KRAS (G13C), NDE1 and EZH2, suggesting potential new therapeutic targets. Sirolimus was initiated and led to complete radiological remission of the disease. This case adds strength to the growing evidence supporting the efficacy of sirolimus in refractory RDD cases.
Descemet Endothelial Thickness Comparison Trial II (DETECT II): multicentre, outcome assessor-masked, placebo-controlled trial comparing Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) to Descemet stripping only (DSO) with adjunctive ripasudil for Fuchs dystrophy
Authors: Lin Charles C , Chamberlain Winston , Benetz Beth Ann , Gensheimer William , Li Jennifer Y , Jeng Bennie H , Clover Jameson , Varnado Nicole , Abdelrahman Sarah , Srinivasan Amrita , Syed Zeba A , Koo Ellen H , Arnold Benjamin F , Lietman Thomas M , Lass Jonathan , Rose-Nussbaumer Jennifer
Published: October 2024

Introduction

It remains uncertain whether Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) or Descemet stripping only (DSO) yields better outcomes in patients with symptomatic Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD). This paper presents the protocol for the Descemet Endothelial Thickness Comparison Trial II (DETECT II), a multicentre, outcome-masked, randomised, placebo-controlled, clinical trial comparing DMEK to DSO with ripasudil (DSO-R) for this patient population.

Methods and analysis

A total of 60 patients with endothelial dysfunction due to symptomatic FECD will be enrolled from seven participating sites in the USA. The patients will be randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to one of the following treatment groups: group 1—DMEK plus topical placebo and group 2—DSO plus topical ripasudil 0.4%. The enrolment period is 24 months. The primary outcome is best spectacle-corrected visual acuity at 12 months. Secondary outcomes include peripheral and central endothelial cell density, visual acuity, vision-related quality of life and Pentacam Scheimpflug tomography. Study outcomes will be analysed using mixed effects linear regression. Adverse events, including rebubble procedures, endothelial failure and graft rejection, will be documented and analysed using appropriate statistical methods. DETECT II aims to provide evidence on the comparative effectiveness of DMEK and DSO-R. The results of this trial will contribute to optimising the treatment of FECD, while also exploring the cost-effectiveness of these interventions. Dissemination of findings through peer-reviewed publications and national/international meetings will facilitate knowledge translation and guide clinical practice in the field of corneal transplantation.

Ethics and dissemination

A data and safety monitoring committee has been empanelled by the National Eye Institute. All study protocols will be subject to review and approval by WCG IRB as the single IRB of record. This study will comply with the National Institute of Health (NIH) Data Sharing Policy and Policy on the Dissemination of NIH-Funded Clinical Trial Information and the Clinical Trials Registration and Results Information Submission rule. Data from the trial will be made available on reasonable request.

Trial registration number

NCT05275972.
Effect of low-volume exercise on hepatic steatosis in adults with obesity plus normal glucose, prediabetes or type 2 diabetes: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Baker Callum , Hocking Samantha L , Wang Xiaoyu , Gerofi James , Colagiuri Stephen , Sabag Angelo , Molyneaux Lynda , Xu Yu , Li Mian , Bi Yufang , Min Danqing , Johnson Nathan A , Twigg Stephen M
Published: October 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a novel, low-volume combined high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and progressive resistance training (PRT) in overweight/obese adults.

Methods

This randomised control trial compared the effect of regular supervised HIIT combined with PRT (Exercise) with an unsupervised stretching intervention (Control), in previously inactive adults with either normal glucose (NG), pre-diabetes or type 2 diabetes (T2DM) with body mass index of >25 kg/m2. Participants were randomly allocated (1:1) to receive low-volume exercise or control by an online randomisation tool. The primary outcome was the difference in change of hepatic steatosis between Exercise and Control. A prespecified sensitivity analysis was undertaken for weight stable participants (<5% change in bodyweight from baseline). Secondary outcomes were change in hepatic steatosis within the glucose groups, glycaemic control, cardiorespiratory fitness, muscle strength and body composition.

Results

Between June 2018 and May 2021, 162 participants were randomly assigned (NG: 76, pre-diabetes: 60, T2DM: 26) and 144 were included in the final analysis. Mean absolute change in hepatic steatosis was −1.4% (4.9) in Exercise (n=73) and −0.1% (7.2) in Control (n=71)(p=0.25). By preplanned sensitivity analysis, the mean change in hepatic steatosis with Exercise (n=70) was −1.5% (5) compared with 0.7% (4.6) with Control (n=61) (p=0.017). Subgroup analysis within the glucose groups showed that exercise reduced hepatic steatosis in those with pre-diabetes but not NG or T2DM (pre-diabetes: −1.2% (4.4) in Exercise and 1.75% (5.7) in Control, p=0.019).

Conclusion

These findings show that low-volume HIIT with PRT yields improvements in muscle strength and cardiorespiratory fitness and may have a small effect on hepatic steatosis.

Trial registration number

The trial was prospectively registered with the ANZCTR (ACTRN12617000552381).
Types, frequencies and burden of health problems in elite luge athletes: a 46-week prospective cohort study
Authors: Tomaselli Sarah Christina , Arora Rohit , Mühlbacher Elias , Runer Armin , Schneider Friedemann
Published: October 2024

Background

There is a research gap in the survey of injuries and illnesses in the sport of luge.

Objective

To analyse the type, frequency and burden of injuries and illnesses that occurred over a preparation period and a competition period in elite luge athletes.

Methods

In total 40 elite luge athletes, who were all part of a national team and competed internationally, self-reported acute injuries, overuse injuries and illnesses weekly using the Oslo Sports Trauma Research Centre Questionnaire on Health Problems.

Results

The most frequently stated health problems were illnesses with 41.9% (n=75), followed by acute injuries at 31.9% (n=57). Overuse injuries accounted for 24.0% (n=43). Illnesses represented the greatest burden with a median severity score of 60.0 (IQR: 23.63), followed by acute injuries with 42.0 (IQR: 26.83) and overuse injuries with 35.0 (IQR: 23.95). In the case of acute injuries, the anatomical regions most affected were the hand (n=8, 14.0 %), foot (n=8, 14.0 %), head (n=7, 12.3 %) and neck (n=6, 10.5 %). In the case of overuse injuries, the shoulder (n=9, 20.9 %) and lumbar spine (n=7, 16.3 %) were most frequently reported. Strains (n=15, 26.3 %) and contusions (n=14, 24.6 %) were the predominant types of acute injuries. Four concussions were recorded, with none of the athletes taking a break from normal training of more than 3 days. This stands in contrast to the current recommendations for the return to sport after concussion.

Conclusion

The results of this study represent the current incidence rates and health burden of acute and chronic injuries in this constantly evolving sport. 95% of all athletes reported at least one health problem during the observation period. These findings support the need for specific prevention programmes. The establishment of a concussion protocol should be considered.
Probing the effect of time conformal factor on the particle dynamics around AdS Reissner–Nordström black hole
Authors: Khan Amir Sultan , Khan Israr Ali , Jan Shah Qasim , El-Sherbeeny Ahmed M. , Islam Saeed , Khan Muhammad Sajjad Ali
Published: September 2024

This study entails the effect of time on particle dynamics (both charged and uncharged) in the surrounding of the Reissner–Nordström AdS black hole in light of a general time conformal factor by acquiring Noether symmetry relation using the Lagrangian of the considered black hole spacetime. Upon acquiring the required time conformal spacetime as well as the Noether and approximated Noether symmetries along with their respective laws of conservation, the study further aims at investigating different parameters, like effective potential, effective force, and trajectories of escape velocity for the particle dynamics of the specified black hole. Additionally, in order to investigate orbit stability, the study employs the Lyapunov exponent.
Single-Ended Near Threshold 9T SRAM for Portable Low-Power Biomedical Applications
Authors: Kumar Appikatla Phani , Lorenzo Rohit
Published: September 2024

Biomedical applications like body area networks (BAN) necessitate the construction of power optimized SRAMs to enhance the batteries life at BAN nodes. In this work, we have designed a one-sided near-threshold 9TSRAM for low-power portable biomedical applications. The proposed near threshold 9T SRAM (PNT9T SRAM) employs a cross-connected Schmitt trigger (ST) inverter and normal inverter in its cell core. A separate path for reading is also employed to eliminate the reading disturbance. The write disturbance is removed in the PNT9T SRAM by removing the trail from VDD and ground. The write ability is improved with the use of a feedback-cutting approach. The leakage power dissipation of the memory is mitigated by using a tail transistor, virtual ground (VGND). To evaluate the performance, the PNT9T SRAM is compared with conventional 6T (C6T), ST11T, ST9T, TG9T, SBL9T, and SE9T SRAM cells using FinFET 18[Formula: see text]nm technology at 0.6[Formula: see text]V power supply. The PNT9T SRAM mitigates the read power, write power, and leakage power by 51.10%, 50.57%, and 78.97%. Furthermore, the read and write static noise margins were improved by 54% and 39.5%, respectively, compared to C6T SRAM.
Attention, Consciousness and Genuine AI
Authors: Cantero-Flores Víctor
Published: September 2024

In his book The Prospect of a Humanitarian Artificial Intelligence (2023), Carlos Montemayor proposes, among other things, an account of genuine artificial intelligence (IA) in terms of the notion of attention. This notion, when disconnected from problematic notions like phenomenal consciousness, can account for epistemic agency, which is a central feature of intelligent behavior. This paper questions, on the one hand, whether attention really suffices for epistemic agency and for AI. On the other hand, it is also argued that we cannot completely disentangle phenomenal consciousness from questions about the nature of intelligence, epistemic agency, and attention. After all, we may need to deal with deeper metaphysical questions.
Dignity and Intelligence
Authors: Nunes Leticia Galluzzi
Published: September 2024

“The Prospect of a Humanitarian Artificial Intelligence: Agency and Value Alignment” reunites fields of inquiry that are typically kept separate-philosophy of mind, theory of knowledge, psychology, the social and political sciences, law and ethics. What we have learned to call “artificial intelligence” (AI), and the ways we may use it — intelligently — to promote life, knowledge, freedom, care, altruism, is a technology that must be democratized if it is to be used properly. But we have to be cautious to call it “intelligent” before seeing more carefully how it affects us, humans as a whole.
BLEdge: Edge-centric Programming for BLE Applications with Multi-connection Optimization
Authors: Li Yeming , Li Borui , Lv Jiamei , Dong Wei
Published: October 2024

Recent years have witnessed the rapid growth of IoT (Internet of Things). Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) is one of the most popular wireless protocols to implement IoT applications because of its energy efficiency and low-cost properties. However, the development of BLE applications is time-consuming and exhausting. Users are required to write programs for both sides of a BLE connection using complicated low-level APIs. Moreover, it needs much expertise for developers to set appropriate parameters in accordance to different application requirements, especially when there exist multiple concurrent BLE connections. To address these problems, we propose
BLEdge
, an edge-centric programming approach for BLE applications with multi-connection optimization. First, we propose a wireless bus abstraction for BLE programming. With this, users can write BLE applications in an edge-centric way, as if the BLE-connected peripherals are physically attached to the edge node. Second, we advocate an optimization approach for BLE connection parameters. This optimization approach considers the time slot collision problem under a multi-connection scenario. We conduct extensive experiments with the nRF52840DK platform. Experiment results show that
BLEdge
can reduce 62.50% to 90.55% LOC (Lines of Code) when developing BLE applications. Furthermore, our parameter optimization approach can reduce up to 42.23% energy consumption.
No More Extinctions: Recovering Australia's Biodiversity
Authors: Woinarski John C.Z. , Garnett Stephen T. , Legge Sarah M.
Published: October 2024

Most conservation programs and laws aim to prevent extinction. However, there is a gulf between such aspirations and the current reality of escalating biodiversity loss. This review focuses on efforts to prevent extinctions in Australia, but much of this consideration is likely to apply globally. As context, we consider the reasons for trying to prevent extinction, review Australia's extinction record, and note that there are likely to be many more extinctions than formally recognized. We describe recent cases where conservation actions have prevented extinction. We note that extinction is a pathway rather than solely an endpoint, and many decisions made or not made on that pathway can determine the fate of species. We conclude that all looming extinctions can and should be prevented. This will require transformational change in legislation, increased resourcing, more consideration of poorly known species, and increased societal recognition of the need to be responsible for the care of country.
Four-dimensional Flow MRI–based Computational Fluid Dynamics Simulation for Noninvasive Portosystemic Pressure Gradient Assessment in Patients with Cirrhosis and Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt
Authors: Riedel Christoph , Hoffmann Marko , Ismahil Muhammad , Lenz Alexander , Piecha Felix , Ristow Inka , Kluwe Johannes , Schlüter Michael , Adam Gerhard , Schoennagel Bjoern P. , Reeder Scott B. , Bannas Peter
Published: October 2024

Four-dimensional flow MRI plus computational fluid dynamics for noninvasive portosystemic pressure gradient assessment in participants with cirrhosis with a transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) was deemed feasible and potentially useful for detecting TIPS stenoses.
Evaluation of GPT Large Language Model Performance on RSNA 2023 Case of the Day Questions
Authors: Mukherjee Pritam , Hou Benjamin , Suri Abhinav , Zhuang Yan , Parnell Christopher , Lee Nicholas , Stroie Oana , Jain Ravi , Wang Kenneth C. , Sharma Komal , Summers Ronald M.
Published: October 2024

Human raters did not significantly outperform OpenAI’s GPT-4V in assessing RSNA 2023 Case of the Day questions nor did their accuracy improve with the assistance of GPT-4V.
Academic Radiology Physician Financial Compensation in the United States: Trends and Distribution
Authors: Malhotra Ajay , Futela Dheeman , Joshi Rudra , Khunte Mihir , Moily Nagaraj S. , Wu Xiao , Payabvash Seyedmehdi , Wintermark Max , Gandhi Dheeraj
Published: October 2024

Salary inequities persist in academic radiology and should be addressed as part of the broader drive to increase diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Spatiotemporal Distribution and Damage Trends of Pseudotheraptus devastans (Dist.) on Theobroma cacao in Ghana
Authors: Awudzi Godfred Kweku , Avicor Silas Wintuma , Adu-Acheampong Richard
Published: September 2024

Pseudotheraptus devastans (Dist.), a coreid bug, feeds on pods causing extensive deformation of the pods and clumping of beans, resulting in reduced yields. This pest was considered important in the 1960s and was more prevalent on hybrid cocoa in the Eastern region of Ghana. With the increase in the use of hybrid planting materials across the entire cocoa landscape in Ghana, information on distribution and population dynamics of the pest is needed to aid effective management. The distribution survey involving 1,740 farms indicated that the pest is present in all the cocoa‐growing regions. P. devastans numbers and associated damage pods were assessed monthly on 35 farms (100 trees per farm) using the visual hand‐height sampling method from 2018 to 2021. The P. devastans population peaked in April, followed by a decline from June with a minor peak in August. Pest numbers and damaged pods were significantly different for the different months but not for the regions. No significant relationship was observed between P. devastans numbers sampled to hand‐height and their associated damage pods. This suggests that damage can occur regardless of the quantity of pests. Regular pest monitoring in cocoa farms is needed to ensure that pest damage is spotted early enough to avoid crop loss since P. devastans numbers do not necessarily correlate with damage.
A Scoping Review of the Experiences and Outcomes of Stigma and Discrimination towards Persons Experiencing Homelessness
Authors: Canham Sarah L. , Weldrick Rachel , Erisman Morgan , McNamara Anne , Rose Jeffrey N. , Siantz Elizabeth , Casucci Tallie , McFarland Mary M.
Published: September 2024

A pervasive barrier to preventing, reducing, and ending homelessness is the stigmatization of and discrimination towards persons experiencing homelessness (PEH), termed “homeism.” To date, there has been no systematic review of the experiences and outcomes of stigmatization and discrimination among PEH or interventions to reduce this discrimination. To fill this gap in the literature, we conducted a scoping review to identify the ways in which PEH have been stigmatized and discriminated against, the results of these experiences, and interventions that have been used to reduce stigma and discrimination. We reviewed results from 12 databases with no date restrictions; 205 studies met our inclusion criteria. Thematic data analyses resulted in the identification of 12 categories. Using community consultation, the scoping review themes were reviewed and validated with 25 PEH or service providers in the homelessness sector and their feedback integrated into our results. Thematic categories included discrimination and stigmatization in healthcare, social services, workplaces and employment, and public spaces by the general public; discrimination and stigmatization from landlords, police and security guards, informal social networks, and by PEH toward PEH; discrimination and stigmatization linked to intersectional domains; PEH feelings about discrimination and stigmatization; outcomes of discrimination and stigmatization for PEH; and interventions to reduce stigma, discrimination, and prejudice towards PEH. Based on findings from this review, we argue that homeism serves as a social determinant of health as PEH confront multiple barriers to housing, income security, and healthcare due to interpersonal, institutional, structural, and intrapersonal stigmatization and discrimination.
Assessing Awareness, Attitude, and Practices of Breast Cancer Screening and Prevention Among General Public and Physicians in Pakistan: A Nation With the Highest Breast Cancer Incidence in Asia
Authors: Aslam Adeel , Mustafa Asma Ghulam , Hussnain Ali , Saeed Hafsa , Nazar Fatima , Amjad Maha , Mahmood Ayesha , Afzal Atika , Fatima Anam , Alkhalidi Doaa Kamal
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Breast cancer is a global health challenge with significant mortality, affecting millions worldwide. The current study is aimed at evaluating awareness and practices related to breast cancer screening, prevention, and treatment among the general public and physicians in Lahore, Pakistan, which has a significant incidence of breast cancer.

Methodology: The current study adopted a cross‐sectional study design conducted in Lahore, Pakistan, between March and August 2023, among 404 participants from the general public and 240 physicians. Data collection and evaluation involved the use of validated questionnaires, and both descriptive and inferential statistics were performed using SPSS Version 25.

Result: In Lahore, Pakistan, breast cancer awareness among the public was low, with 80.2% unaware of its global prevalence, 65.3% believing not everyone is at risk, and only 42.1% recognizing symptoms. Females showed greater awareness (OR: 1.020, CI: 0.617–1.686, p = 0.002) and positive attitudes (OR: 2.711, CI: 1.478–6.478, p = 0.045), while the 18–29 age group had higher odds of positive practices (OR: 4.317, CI: 2.678–5.956, p = 0.004). Educational attainment significantly influences knowledge and attitudes. Only 13.9% practiced self‐examination. Among physicians, 88.8% were confident in screenings, but patient fear (42.9%) and financial barriers (79.2%) hindered action. Physicians with FCPS qualifications had higher odds of awareness (OR: 1.550, CI: 1.130–2.117, p = 0.007), attitudes (OR: 1.500, CI: 1.050–2.150, p = 0.025), and practices (OR: 1.470, CI: 1.070–2.017, p = 0.020). Those with 11–20 years of experience also showed better awareness (OR: 1.400, CI: 1.050–1.868, p = 0.022) and attitudes (OR: 1.450, CI: 1.045–2.018, p = 0.029).

Conclusion: In conclusion, breast cancer awareness among the general public is limited, highlighting the need for tailored education programs. Although most physicians show high awareness, challenges in patient communication and barriers, such as fear and financial constraints, must be addressed to improve screening uptake. These findings emphasize the importance of targeted interventions to enhance public awareness, screening practices, and physician‐patient communication.
Developing Effective Community Collaborations: A Qualitative Case Study of Three High‐Quality Partnerships Set in Aotearoa New Zealand
Authors: Hāpuku Aaron , Leahy Jennifer , Ranabahu Nadeera , Reid Kate , Shahri Bahareh , Yamit Therese , Johnston Robyn , Mathias Kaaren
Published: September 2024

There is widespread and growing support and requirement for researchers and larger organisations to collaborate with communities. This ensures that social, educational, or health programmes are relevant and acceptable and address the needs of groups that experience inequity. There is limited research about the processes and approaches that impact successful collaboration. The aim of this study was to identify the best‐practice processes used to develop and sustain collaborative partnerships between community members and formal organisations in Aotearoa New Zealand. Using a qualitative case study methodology and guidance from our community advisory group, we selected three effective collaborations with groups that experienced inequity in Aotearoa New Zealand. We examined these by reviewing their publicly available documents and conducting focus group discussions and interviews with key stakeholders. We coded and analysed transcriptions thematically to develop case study summaries of findings and then conducted cross‐case analysis to identify themes inherent in the data. Seven themes emerged from the data: (1) work together under Te Tiriti to ensure that collaborations are built on the articles of this founding document of Aotearoa New Zealand; (2) start before the beginning by forming strong relationships with diverse and representative community members; (3) walk the talk by using critically reflexive processes built on shared values and equal power relations; (4) use pencils not pens to implement ensuring an iterative project process; (5) recognise all contributions and especially the value of lived experience and local knowledge; (6) journey at a pace that allows all to participate; and (7) listen twice, talk once to give priority to hearing quieter voices. These seven practices can be utilised by other collaborative initiatives to increase genuine and power‐shared participation. These participatory processes can make sure that collaborative projects respect local knowledge, indigenous culture, and respond iteratively to community needs.
Dissecting Cowpea Genetic Variability under Moisture Stress Conditions and Implications for Drought Tolerance Breeding
Authors: Singini Mary , Chipeta Michael M. , Njira Keston , Fiwa Lameck
Published: September 2024

Cowpea remains a crop of choice by most smallholder farmers particularly in arid and semiarid areas of the world due to its reported resilience to drought. However, recent evidence suggests that drought is currently a major abiotic stress in arid and semiarid regions with major consequences on crop yields and quality. Developing better‐adapted and drought‐tolerant varieties remains a sure strategy to reduce crop yield loss among farmers. The objective of the study was to explore the genetic variability among a diverse set of cowpea genotypes and identify drought‐tolerant genotypes for developing more productive and drought‐tolerant varieties. A diverse panel of 315 cowpea genotypes was evaluated under water stress and nonstress conditions across two locations using an Alpha lattice design. Water stress was imposed at the flowering stage, and irrigation was done after depletion of 80% of available water. Nine drought tolerance indices (MP = mean productivity index, GMP = geometric mean productivity index, HM = harmonic mean, STI = stress tolerance index, YI = yield index, YSI = yield stability index, TOL = tolerance index, Yrr = yield reduction ratio, and SSI = stress susceptibility index) were calculated based on grain yield under water stress and nonstress conditions. A joint analysis of variance across locations for both water stress trials and nonstress trials exhibited highly significant differences (P < 0.001) among the main effect of genotype (G), location (L), and the interaction (GL) for grain yield (kg/ha). The results indicated that the locations (environments) used in the study were distinct and the genotypes evaluated presented differentiated performance in response to environmental variations. Principal component analysis based on the rank correlation matrix and the Pearson product‐moment correlation coefficient revealed that most of the drought tolerant indices (MP, GMP, HM, YI, and STI) used were highly correlated with yield under stress and nonstress conditions which suggested that they are ideal for selecting drought tolerant genotypes that are stable and high yielding. From the genotypes screened under both water stress and nonstress conditions across two locations, the rank sum of indices selected 10 genotypes (MWcp66, Vuli‐1, TVu‐13265, MWcp27, MWcp20, MWcp59, IT99K‐573‐1‐1, IT98K‐131‐2, TVu‐1482, and IT 99K‐529‐1) as the most drought tolerant genotypes. These genotypes are therefore good sources of drought tolerant traits and are ideal for inclusion in a crossing program aimed at developing more productive and drought tolerant cowpea varieties more, especially in arid and semiarid areas.
Bilevel Optimization of Regular Bus‐Subway‐Shared Bicycle Cooperative Operation considering Dual Uncertainties
Authors: Xue Yunqiang , He Tong , Li Tao , Guan Hongzhi , Qiu Yang
Published: September 2024

The primary objective of this paper is to minimize the overall travel costs for passengers while simultaneously maximizing the operational revenue for the transportation company. This is achieved through the optimization and adjustment of various factors, such as the intervals between regular bus and subway services, the duration of vehicle stops at each station, and the pricing structure for subway and shared bicycle usage. By enhancing the efficiency of passenger travel, we have successfully bolstered the company’s operational profits. In contrast to prior research, this paper comprehensively considers the dual uncertainties associated with both bus operations and shared bicycle operations within a cooperative system. By establishing a coordinated dual‐level optimization model for regular bus, subway, and bike‐sharing networks under dual uncertainty conditions, we employed convex combination techniques to unify the dual uncertain variables into a single objective, which was then incorporated into a chance‐constrained bilevel programming model. Ultimately, we utilized KKT conditions to transform the model from a bilevel to a single level for resolution. This paper centers its research on the collaborative system comprising the Nanchang Metro Line 1, Bus Route 520, Bus Route 211, and the adjacent region hosting a cluster of shared bicycles. By leveraging Python programming, optimization models, empirical data on traffic flow and stoppage times, and OD data, we conducted an optimization analysis to solve the problem at hand. According to the optimization results, passenger waiting time, passenger transfer time, and passenger on board time are effectively reduced by 6.81%, 18.29%, and 23.92%. At a confidence level of 95%, the resulting time level results in a 12.44% reduction in total travel time. The average subway fare increased by 18.12%, the average shared bicycle fare decreased by 19.12%, and the total cost of travel expenses increased by 16.68%. The final total cost of travel was reduced by 4.06%, and the business operating income was increased by 13.10%. The comprehensive optimization results have effectively fulfilled the objectives of the bilevel optimization model, thereby confirming the rationality and practicality of the optimization approach. The research outcomes hold significant practical implications for facilitating the efficient and cooperative development of urban transportation networks, ultimately enhancing the convenience of residents’ travel experiences.