bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A new nonsurgical combination approach for skin tightening and remodeling; Endoskin—A comparative study
Authors: Benar Hasan , Benar Elif Burcu
Published: March 2024

Introduction

This article introduces a novel nonsurgical skin tightening and remodeling approach termed Endoskin, which combines internal laser therapy (1470 nm Diode laser) with injectable poly‐L‐lactic acid (PLLA). The internal laser targets the superficial fat layer, stimulating collagen production and cellular rejuvenation, leading to gradual skin tightening and improved elasticity. Simultaneously, PLLA promotes collagen synthesis, strengthening the skin's foundation and restoring volume. This comprehensive exploration delves into Endoskin's mechanisms, clinical applications, and its differentiation from traditional methods.

Methods

The study encompassed 234 participants, categorized into two groups: Group A received internal laser treatment and Group B received the combined Endoskin treatment. Patient satisfaction, assessed using a Likert scale unveiled significantly higher levels in Group B. Dermatologists, blinded to treatment details, also expressed greater satisfaction with the combination treatment outcomes.

Discussion

The ensuing discussion emphasizes the synergistic effects of internal laser therapy and PLLA, presenting a multifaceted approach to skin rejuvenation. The study results underscore Endoskin's efficacy, safety, and its potential as a nonsurgical option for skin tightening and remodeling. The gradual and harmonious transformation aligns with natural aging, positioning Endoskin as an appealing choice for those seeking subtle yet impactful changes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Endoskin demonstrates notable efficacy, reliability, and safety in achieving skin rejuvenation. Although further research is warranted to assess its long‐term effects, the current findings position Endoskin as a promising option with a significantly higher level of overall patient and dermatologist satisfaction compared to internal laser treatment alone.
Marine protected areas can be useful but are not a silver bullet for kelp conservation
Authors: Filbee‐Dexter Karen , Starko Samuel , Pessarrodona Albert , Wood Georgina , Norderhaug Kjell Magnus , Piñeiro‐Corbeira Cristina , Wernberg Thomas
Published: March 2024

Kelp forests are among the most valuable ecosystems on Earth, but they are increasingly being degraded and lost due to a range of human‐related stressors, leading to recent calls for their improved management and conservation. One of the primary tools to conserve marine species and biodiversity is the establishment of marine protected areas (MPAs). International commitments to protect 30% of the world's ecosystems are gaining momentum, offering a promising avenue to secure kelp forests into the Anthropocene. However, a clear understanding of the efficacy of MPAs for conserving kelp forests in a changing ocean is lacking. In this perspective, we question whether strengthened global protection will create meaningful conservation outcomes for kelp forests. We explore the benefits of MPAs for kelp conservation under a suite of different stressors, focusing on empirical evidence from protected kelp forests. We show that MPAs can be effective against some drivers of kelp loss (e.g., overgrazing, kelp harvesting), particularly when they are maintained in the long‐term and enforced as no‐take areas. There is also some evidence that MPAs can reduce impacts of climate change through building resilience in multi‐stressor situations. However, MPAs also often fail to provide protection against ocean warming, marine heatwaves, coastal darkening, and pollution, which have emerged as dominant drivers of kelp forest loss globally. Although well‐enforced MPAs should remain an important tool to protect kelp forests, successful kelp conservation will require implementing an additional suite of management solutions that target these accelerating threats.
Korean Christian Missionaries in High‐Risk Countries: Interaction with International Religious Networks and Domestic Response
Authors: Jung Jihye
Published: March 2024

Why do some Christian foreign mission groups dispatch missionaries to some culturally and politically risky states where they face personal risks and political entanglements? Using world polity theory, I argue that local religious groups’ motivations are driven by their involvement in international religious networks, which mobilize missionaries to go to places such as Muslim countries. Based on 30 semistructured interviews with South Korean missionaries and leaders of churches and mission organizations, I illuminate that globally shared discourse of unreached people encouraged missionaries to volunteer to go to high‐risk states. I also suggest that Korean religious actors did not passively accept the influence of the international discourse but also reconstructed the discourse. The study also highlights that a missionary's dual identity as a religious actor and another profession to get a visa in high‐risk countries is bound up with the state's surveillance and potential persecution.
Pseudohyperkalemia in myotonic dystrophy type 1: A case report
Authors: Hatano Taku , Uchida Toyoyoshi , Hayashi Hidemori , Hattori Nobutaka
Published: March 2024

Myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) is an autosomal dominant familial muscular dystrophy caused by abnormal CTG repeat expansion in the myotonic dystrophy protein kinase (DMPK) gene. The cardinal features of DM1 patients are muscular weakness, myotonia, and arrhythmia. DM1 patients with electrolyte imbalance caused by endocrinological alterations have also been reported. Herein, we report a female patient with DM1 and hyperkalemia, which fluctuated depending on the blood collection methods. We revealed that cold stimulation of red blood cells was associated with hyperkalemia, whereas blood examination immediately after collection showed normal potassium levels. She was, therefore, diagnosed with pseudohyperkalemia. Several previous reports have described DM1 patients with pseudohyperkalemia, similar to ours. Neurologists should be aware that some patients with DM1 may have pseudohyperkalemia. Thus, consider retesting with prompt measurement after blood collection to rule out pseudohyperkalemia when a patient shows hyperkalemia. If confirmed, evaluate for DM1 as a potential differential diagnosis.
Fertility Responses to the COVID‐19 Pandemic: A Perspective of Reproductive Process
Authors: Fan Xinguang
Published: March 2024

The COVID‐19 pandemic has potential large‐scale impacts on population dynamics. Yet, recent theories and empirical analyses fall short of fully articulating the extent and nature of the pandemic's influence on birth rates at the aggregate level. This study advances the comprehension of fertility dynamics amid the pandemic by focusing on the reproductive process. The effects of the pandemic on conceptions and pregnancy terminations may exhibit considerable variability, which, in turn, could dictate the observed patterns in birth rates during the pandemic. Employing the data from the Performance Monitoring Action survey in Burkina Faso and Kenya, which includes information on conceptions, pregnancy terminations, and births, the research dissects the nuances of fertility behavior in response to the pandemic. Findings indicate an uptick in conception rates around six months following the onset of the pandemic in Kenya, while pregnancy terminations did not significantly shift in either country. Further, the data reveal a pronounced increase in conception rates among disadvantaged groups, whereas a downturn in pregnancy terminations was noted predominantly in urban areas during the early phase of the pandemic. These findings underscore the importance of considering the reproductive process when studying fertility responses to catastrophic events.
Effect of steroid pulses in severe BK virus allograft nephropathy with extensive interstitial inflammation
Authors: Carrillo Julien , Del Bello Arnaud , Sallusto Federico , Delas Audrey , Colombat Magali , Mansuy Jean Michel , Izopet Jacques , Kamar Nassim , Belliere Julie
Published: March 2024

Introduction

As there is no specific antiviral treatment currently available for BK polyomavirus associated nephropathy (BKVAN), its management relies on immunosuppression reduction in kidney transplant patients. Data on efficacy of steroid pulses in this indication are lacking.

Methods

We performed a retrospective monocenter study on 64 patients diagnosed with biopsy‐proven BKVAN. Patients within the “pulse group” (n = 37) received IV methylprednisolone 10 mg/kg 3 days consecutively. In the “low dose” steroid group (n = 27), patients were continued oral prednisone 5 mg daily.

Results

Mean follow up was 78 months in the steroid pulse group and 56 months in the low dose group (p = 0.15). Mean eGFR values at diagnosis were comparable, as well as other demographic characteristics. Mean BK plasma viral load was higher in “pulse” than in “low dose” steroid group. Pulse group had higher inflammation and tubulitis (p < 0.05). Graft loss reached 57% in the “pulse” group versus 41% in the “low dose” group, p = 0.20. Rejection events were similar. No major adverse event was statistically associated with steroid pulse, including infections, cancer, and de novo diabetes.

Conclusion

No significant differences were found in the evolution of both groups of patients, despite patients receiving “pulse” steroids were identified as the most severe sharing higher BK viral load and more frequent active lesions on histology.

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Radiation toxicity grading after chemoradiotherapy of canine urinary tract carcinomas: Comparing VRTOG to VRTOG_v2.0
Authors: Ahrens Carlotta , Beatrice Laura , Meier Valeria , Rohrer Bley Carla
Published: March 2024

Radiation toxicities may be underestimated after treatment of transitional cell carcinoma in dogs' lower urinary tract. Assessing acute and late toxicities and differentiating them from progressive disease (PD) impacts further therapeutic approach. We retrospectively assessed dogs treated with definitive‐intent chemoradiotherapy (12 × 3.8 Gy, various first‐line chemotherapeutics). Local tumour control, radiation toxicities and survival were evaluated. We classified radiation toxicities according to the previously published radiation toxicity scheme “VRTOG” as well as the updated version, “VRTOG_v2.0”. Fourteen dogs with transitional cell carcinoma of bladder ± urethra (n = 8), +prostate (n = 3) or solely urethra (n = 3), were included. Median follow‐up was 298 days (range 185–1798 days), median overall survival 305 days (95%CI = 209;402) and 28.6% deaths were tumour‐progression‐related. Acute radiation toxicity was mild and self‐limiting with both classification systems: In VRTOG, 5 dogs showed grade 1, and 1 dog grade 2 toxicity. In VRTOG_v2.0, 2 dogs showed grade 1, 3 dogs grade 2, and 3 dogs grade 3 toxicity. Late toxicity was noted in 14.2% of dogs (2/14) with the VRTOG, both with grade 3 toxicity. With VRTOG_v2.0, a larger proportion of 42.9% of dogs (6/14) showed late toxicities: Four dogs grade 3 (persistent incontinence), 2 dogs grade 5 (urethral obstructions without PD resulting in euthanasia). At time of death, 5 dogs underwent further workup and only 3 were confirmed to have PD. With the updated VRTOG_v2.0 classification system, more dogs with probable late toxicity are registered, but it is ultimately difficult to distinguish these from disease progression as restaging remains to be the most robust determinant.
Exploring Modalities Best Suited for Public Private Partnership Concession Agreements in the Education Sector of Zambia
Authors: Lwando Bridget Mwaba Theresa , Mushinge Anthony
Published: March 2024

The Zambian public sector has been known to face several challenges in the provision of infrastructure among others education infrastructure. Thus, the introduction of Public Private Partnerships (PPPs). In as much as the education sector of Zambia can benefit tremendously from the PPP initiative, poorly designed PPP concession agreements risk worsening existing educational sector challenges. The objectives of the paper were to establish the extent of application of PPPs in the Zambian education sector, identify the challenges surrounding concession agreements in PPPs in Zambia, and suggest the right modalities that could be applied to PPP concession agreements in the Zambian education sector. Both secondary and primary data was collected to establish that no private sector entity has had or is currently engaged in an ongoing concession with the Government in the procurement of infrastructure for schools. Challenges surrounding concession agreements in PPPs included contract misspecifications, lack of contractual flexibility, opportunistic behaviour by either party, and shielded concession agreement creation and process. In view of the foregoing, right modalities that could be applied to PPP concession agreements in the Zambian education sector include proper risk allocation, adequate concession period, clear allocation of roles and responsibilities, and inclusion of stabilization clauses.
On local stability threshold of del Pezzo surfaces
Authors: Etxabarri‐Alberdi Erroxe
Published: March 2024

We complete the classification of local stability thresholds for smooth del Pezzo surfaces of degree 2. In particular, we show that this number is irrational if and only if there is a unique (‐1)‐curve passing through the point where we are computing the local invariant.
An Active Equalization Method for Cascade Utilization Lithium-Ion Battery Pack With Online Measurement of Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy
Authors: Wang Lujun , Zeng Xiankai , Chen Long , Lv Lu , Liao Li , Jiang Jiuchun
Published: March 2024

With the rapid development of new energy vehicles, a large number of lithium batteries have been produced, used, and then retired. The full utilization and safe use of the whole life cycle of the batteries have become a hot topic in the research field. Compared to brand-new batteries, retired power batteries exhibit significant inconsistency and safety risks, thus necessitating effective battery equalization and safety monitoring methods. In this article, an active equalization method for cascade utilization lithium battery pack with online measurement of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy is proposed to actively equalize the retired battery pack and alleviate the inconsistency of the battery pack. Besides, the electrochemical impedance spectrum of the single battery is measured online without adding additional hardware circuits so as to realize real-time safety monitoring and solve the safety problem of the battery. Finally, in order to verify the feasibility of the active equalization and electrochemical impedance spectrum monitoring scheme designed in this article, a simulation model is built based on the matlab-Simulink platform. The simulation results show that the six batteries in the proposed scheme model complete the active equalization in about 710 s, 850 s, and 740 s, respectively, in the balance mode, charge mode, and discharge mode, and the electrochemical impedance spectrum in the frequency range of 1–20 KHz can be successfully measured.
Assessing Hydrogen–Ammonia Ratios to Achieve Rapid Kernel Inception in Spark-Ignition Engines
Authors: Yan Yuchao , Shang Tansu , Li Lingmin , Liu Zhentao , Liu Jinlong
Published: March 2024

In the quest for decarbonizing internal combustion engines, ammonia (NH3) is recognized as a viable alternative fuel due to its zero-carbon emission profile, positioning it as a potential substitute for conventional petroleum fuels. However, the suboptimal combustion characteristics of ammonia pose challenges for its direct application in engines. The introduction of hydrogen (H2) as a combustion enhancer shows promise in improving ammonia viability for engine use. While previous studies have confirmed the benefits of hydrogen addition to ammonia for enhanced engine performance, comprehensive analysis of the precise ammonia-to-hydrogen ratio for optimal efficacy remains scarce. This research aims to bridge this gap by evaluating hydrogen–ammonia mixtures for achieving methane-equivalent laminar flame speeds under typical engine conditions, with a focus on the kernel inception process primarily driven by laminar flames. The findings indicate that a minimum of 20% hydrogen mixed with ammonia is necessary to facilitate rapid spark inception, although it does not reach the laminar flame speed of methane. Additionally, employing a high compression ratio and operating near stoichiometry could lower the required hydrogen–ammonia ratio. Considering the challenges in generating ample hydrogen with NH3 dissociators and the need for operational conditions like full-load and low-speed to lessen hydrogen demand, ammonia–hydrogen fuel blends are deemed most suitable for stationary engine applications in the near term.
Directivity of horns mounted in finite enclosures: A multimodal formulation
Authors: Dong Hao , Doc Jean-Baptiste , Félix Simon
Published: March 2024

The beamwidth is a primary directivity metric for the design of a constant directivity horn. To date, investigations on this property have predominantly been restricted to the half-space radiation or idealized geometries. This paper examines the beamwidth behavior of an axisymmetric horn mounted in a finite cylindrical enclosure by proposing an elegant multimodal solution to the far-field directivity pattern. The variation of beamwidth is examined for the frequency, dimensions of the enclosure, and shape of the horn. At low frequencies, a fitted model is proposed to precisely depict the intrinsic beam narrowing governed by the enclosure diffraction. The asymptotic behavior of the beamwidth is explored as the flange width increases. In the high-frequency range, the horn profile is a determinant of the directivity characteristics. We report the possibility of extending the bandwidth of a constant directivity horn by leveraging the enclosure diffraction effects. The proposed analytical method is highly accurate and much faster than the finite element method for wideband analysis. It allows for an arbitrary velocity distribution at the mouth of the horn and incorporates idealized flange configurations such as an infinite baffle, a zero-thickness closed baffle, and an infinitely long enclosure as limit cases.
Chemodiversity in freshwater health
Authors: Tanentzap Andrew J. , Fonvielle Jérémy A.
Published: March 2024

Dissolved organic matter may offer a way to track and restore the health of fresh waters
Exploring the therapeutic potential of DV-B-120 as an inhibitor of dengue virus infection
Authors: Huang Yi-Jung , Cheng Tian-Lu , Wang Yen-Tseng , Chen Chien-Shu , Leu Yu-Ling , Chang Chih-Shiang , Ho Cheng-Han , Chao Shi-Wei , Li Chia-Tse , Chuang Chih-Hung
Published: March 2024

Dengue fever, an infectious disease prevalent in subtropical and tropical regions, currently lacks effective small-molecule drugs as treatment. In this study, we used a fluorescence peptide cleavage assay to screen seven compounds to assess their inhibition of the dengue virus (DENV) NS2B-NS3 protease. DV-B-120 demonstrated superior inhibition of NS2B-NS3 protease activity and lower toxicity compared to ARDP0006. The selectivity index of DV-B-120 was higher than that of ARDP0006.
In vivo
assessments of the antiviral efficacy of DV-B-120 against DENV replication demonstrated delayed mortality of suckling mice treated with the compound, with 60–80% protection against life-threatening effects, compared to the outcomes of DENV-infected mice treated with saline. The lower clinical scores of DENV-infected mice treated with DV-B-120 indicated a reduction in acute–progressive illness symptoms, underscoring the potential therapeutic impact of DV-B-120. Investigations of DV-B-120's ability to restore the antiviral type I IFN response in the brain tissue of DENV-infected ICR suckling mice demonstrated its capacity to stimulate IFN and antiviral IFN-stimulated gene expression. DV-B-120 not only significantly delayed DENV-2-induced mortality and illness symptoms but also reduced viral numbers in the brain, ultimately restoring the innate antiviral response. These findings strongly suggest that DV-B-120 holds promise as a therapeutic agent against DENV infection and highlight its potential contribution in addressing the current lack of effective treatments for this infectious disease.

IMPORTANCE

The prevalence of dengue virus (DENV) infection in tropical and subtropical regions is escalating due to factors like climate change and mosquito vector expansion. With over 300 million annual infections and potentially fatal outcomes, the urgent need for effective treatments is evident. While the approved Dengvaxia vaccine has variable efficacy, there are currently no antiviral drugs for DENV. This study explores seven compounds targeting the NS2B-NS3 protease, a crucial protein in DENV replication. These compounds exhibit inhibitory effects on DENV-2 NS2B-NS3, holding promise for disrupting viral replication and preventing severe manifestations. However, further research, including animal testing, is imperative to assess therapeutic efficacy and potential toxicity. Developing safe and potent treatments for DENV infection is critical in addressing the rising global health threat posed by this virus.
White-opaque switching in
Candida albicans
: cell biology, regulation, and function
Authors: Soll David R.
Published: March 2024

Candida albicans
remains a major fungal pathogen colonizing humans and opportunistically invading tissue when conditions are predisposing. Part of the success of
C. albicans
was attributed to its capacity to form hyphae that facilitate tissue invasion. However, in 1987, a second developmental program was discovered, the “white-opaque transition,” a high-frequency reversible switching system that impacted most aspects of the physiology, cell architecture, virulence, and gene expression of
C. albicans
. For the 15 years following the discovery of white-opaque switching, its role in the biology of
C. albicans
remained elusive. Then in 2002, it was discovered that in order to mate,
C. albicans
had to switch from white to opaque, a unique step in a yeast mating program. In 2006, three laboratories simultaneously identified a putative master switch gene, which led to a major quest to elucidate the underlying mechanisms that regulate white-opaque switching. Here, the evolving discoveries related to this complicated phenotypic transition are reviewed in a quasi-chronological order not only to provide a historical perspective but also to highlight several unique characteristics of white-opaque switching, which are fascinating and may be important to the life history and virulence of this persistent pathogen. Many of these characteristics have not been fully investigated, in many cases, leaving intriguing questions unresolved. Some of these include the function of unique channeled pimples on the opaque cell wall, the capacity to form opaque cells in the absence of the master switch gene
WOR1
, the formation of separate “pathogenic” and “sexual” biofilms, and the possibility that a significant portion of natural strains colonizing the lower gastrointestinal tract may be in the opaque phase. This review addresses many of these characteristics with the intent of engendering interest in resolving questions that remain unanswered.
Supplemental Material: Volcanic crustal structure of the western Hikurangi Plateau (New Zealand) from marine seismic reflection imaging
Authors: Gase Andrew C. , al. et
Published: March 2024

Uninterpreted seismic reflection images and seismic reflection survey details.
Kangaroo mother care improves cardiorespiratory physiology in preterm infants: an observational study
Authors: Sehgal Arvind , Yeomans Emma J , Nixon Gillian M
Published: March 2024

Objectives

To evaluate whether kangaroo mother care (KMC) in preterm infants on non-invasive respiratory support improves indices of cardiorespiratory wellbeing.

Study design

Prospective quasi-experimental observational study.

Setting

Tertiary perinatal neonatal unit.

Patients

50 very preterm infants being managed with nasal continuous positive airway pressure.

Interventions

Continuous high-resolution preductal pulse-oximetry recordings using Masimo Radical-7 oximeter for 1 hour (incubator care) followed by 1 hour during KMC performed on the same day.

Main outcome measures

Measures of cardiorespiratory stability (dips in oxygen saturations (SpO2)) of ≥5% less than baseline, % time spent with oxygen saturations <90%, SpO2variability and heart rate fluctuation and incidence of bradycardias.

Results

The gestational age and birth weight of the cohort were 28.4±2.1 weeks and 1137±301 g, respectively. Dips in SpO2of ≥5% less than baseline were significantly fewer with KMC, median (IQR) 24 (12 to 42) vs 13 (3 to 25), p=0.001. SpO2variability (Delta 12 s and 2 s), (1.24±0.6 vs 0.9±0.4, p=0.005 and 4.1±1.7 vs 2.8±1.2, p<0.0001) and rapid resaturation and desaturation indices were significantly lower during KMC, compared with incubator care. Percentage time spent in oxygen saturations <90% was less with KMC (7.5% vs 2.7%, p=0.04). Mean heart rate was comparable although fluctuations in heart rate (rise by >8 bpm) were lower with KMC (43±22 vs 33±20, p=0.03). Seven (14%) infants had bradycardias during incubator care and none during KMC, p=0.012.

Conclusions

KMC improves cardiorespiratory stability in ventilated preterm infants. Regular KMC has the potential to improve clinical outcomes in this vulnerable cohort.
Practical guide to the use of digital slides in histopathology education
Authors: Williams Bethany Jill
Published: March 2024

Digital pathology (the technology whereby glass histology slides are scanned at high resolution, digitised, stored and shared with pathologists, who can view them using microscopy software on a screen) is transforming the delivery of clinical diagnostic pathology services around the world. In addition to adding value to clinical histopathology practice, digital histology slides provide a versatile medium to achieve the educational needs of a variety of learners including undergraduate students, postgraduate doctors in training and those pursuing continuing professional development portfolios. In this guide, we will review the principal use cases for digital slides in training and education and I will share tips for successful use of digital pathology to support a range of learners based on experience gathered at Leeds Teaching Hospitals National Health Service Trust and the National Pathology Imaging Co-Operative during the last 5 years of digital slide usage.
Algorithmic Aspects of Outer-Independent Double Roman Domination in Graphs
Authors: Sharma Amit , Reddy P. Venkata Subba , Arumugam S. , Kumar Jakkepalli Pavan
Published: March 2024

Let [Formula: see text] be graph. For any function [Formula: see text], let [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]. The function [Formula: see text] is called an outer-independent double Roman dominating function (OIDRDF) if the following conditions are satisfied.

(i) If [Formula: see text], then [Formula: see text] or [Formula: see text] (ii) If [Formula: see text], then [Formula: see text] (iii) [Formula: see text] is independent.

The outer-independent double Roman domination number of [Formula: see text] is defined by [Formula: see text] is an OIDRDF OF [Formula: see text]. We prove that the decision problem MOIDRDP, corresponding to [Formula: see text] is NP-complete for split graphs. We also show that it is linear time solvable for connected threshold graphs and bounded treewidth graphs. Finally, we show that the MOIDRDP and domination are not equivalent in computational complexity aspects.
A Study for Design of Lightweight Dense Connection Network on Hyperspectral Image Classification
Authors: Liu Yun , Wang Yizhe , Deng Wujian
Published: March 2024

The characteristics of hyperspectral remote sensing images such as inconspicuous feature representativeness, single feature level, and complex information content, can lead to unstable classification results. We propose a lightweight dense network model that injects channel attention in the form of dense connections between network layers (DSE-DN) for the classification of hyperspectral images. In the DSE-DN network, principal component analysis (PCA) is applied to reduce redundancy in the hyperspectral images. Subsequently, a densely connected network is constructed, incorporating channel attention mechanisms through dense connections to enhance the analysis of spectral image features. Finally, the processed hyperspectral images are classified using a fully interconnected layer. We assess two classical hyperspectral datasets and construct 2DCNN, 3DCNN, ResNet, and the network that injects channel attention layer by layer to compare with DSE-DN. The experimental results indicate the utility of the DSE-DN network in hyperspectral image classification and its superiority over other networks.
Identifying influential spreaders in complex network based on the node’s weight and spreading probability
Authors: Ren Tao , Xu Yanjie , Wang Pengyu
Published: March 2024

Identifying influential spreaders is a crucial aspect of network science with various applications, including rumor control, viral marketing and epidemic spread limitation. Despite the availability of various methods for identifying these spreaders in complex networks, there remains a fundamental question regarding their accurate and discriminative identification. To address the issues and account for each node’s propagation ability, we propose an algorithm to identify influential spreaders based on the node’s weight and spreading probability (NWSP) for identifying influential spreaders. The effectiveness of the proposed method is evaluated using the Susceptible–Infected–Recovered (SIR) model, Kendall’s Tau ([Formula: see text]) and monotonicity. The proposed method is compared with several well-known metrics, including degree centrality, K-shell decomposition, betweenness centrality, closeness centrality, eigenvector centrality and the centrality method based on node spreading probability (SPC), in ten real networks. Experimental results demonstrate the superiority ability of the proposed algorithm to accurately and discriminatively identify influential spreaders.
Integrating Operations Research into Very Large-Scale Integrated Circuits Placement Design: A Review
Authors: Zhang Binqi , Zhen Lu , Wang Shuaian , Yang Fajun
Published: March 2024

The placement stage of the physical design of very large-scale integrated circuits (VLSI) specifies the arrangement and order of standard cells and devices within an area, and the effectiveness of the placement result directly affects the chip’s performance. The advancement of process standards and reduction in the size of features size have dramatically increased the complexity of placement design. The realization of placement algorithms to deal with millions of cells has thus become an important issue in the automation of integrated circuit electronic design. In this paper, we first segment the digital integrated circuits into VLSI design styles and review them from the perspectives of practical placement problems, placement design ideas, and placement optimization methods. The discussion around traditional circuits focuses on the essence of the placement problem, placement steps, and classification of placement algorithms. In modern circuit placement, the discussion focuses on the impact of technical constraints on design. After identifying the essence of the placement problem, solutions to the packing problem are reviewed, and we then summarize our representative placement algorithms. Finally, based on the development of VLSI placement design, the optimization bottlenecks of existing placement design are summarized, and suggestions for future research are made based on the latest research topics and methodologies.
Spinning protons and gluons in the η′
Authors: Bass Steven D.
Published: March 2024

The proton spin puzzle has inspired a vast programme of experiments and theoretical work challenging our understanding of QCD and its role in the structure of hadrons. The proton’s internal spin structure is connected to chiral symmetry and, through gluon degrees of freedom in the flavor singlet channel, to the physics of the [Formula: see text] meson. Why do quarks contribute just about one third of the proton’s spin? Why are [Formula: see text] mesons and their interactions so sensitive to gluonic degrees of freedom? We review the status of these topics and some key observables for forthcoming experiments.
COMPARISON OF POSTOPERATIVE QUALITY OF LIFE AND UTILITY VALUES FOLLOWING TOTAL HIP ARTHROPLASTY AND BIPOLAR HEMIARTHROPLASTY FOR OSTEONECROSIS OF THE FEMORAL HEAD
Authors: Kawagishi Masahiro , Kaku Nobuhiro , Tamura Yutaro , Hosoyama Tsuguaki , Tsumura Hiroshi
Published: March 2024

Purpose: The appropriate surgical procedure for Stage 3 osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) remains controversial. This study aimed to evaluate and compare postoperative quality of life (QOL) in patients who underwent total hip arthroplasty (THA) and bipolar hemiarthroplasty (BHA) for ONFH based on comprehensive and disease-specific scales using patient-directed questionnaires.

Methods: We included 54 of 66 patients who underwent artificial joint replacement for ONFH more than 1 year ago at our hospital between April 2013 and September 2020. THA was performed for ONFH Stage 4 and BHA for Stage 3 or below. The mean postoperative observation period in the THA and BHA groups was 3.9 and 3.7 years, respectively. The Short-Form 6-Dimension measure was used to calculate utility values.

Results: No significant differences in questionnaire results regarding disease-specific or comprehensive measures were observed after arthroplasty for ONFH between the THA and BHA groups. The utility values were 0.60 and 0.58 in the THA and BHA groups, respectively.

Conclusion: The postoperative QOL was similar between patients who underwent THA for Stage 4 ONFH and BHA for Stage 3 ONFH. Therefore, THA or BHA can be performed on patients with ONFH after considering age, stage classification, and previous medical conditions.
The equivalence of Axiom (∗)+ and Axiom (∗)++
Authors: Hugh Woodin W.
Published: March 2024

Asperó and Schindler have completely solved the Axiom [Formula: see text] vs. [Formula: see text] problem. They have proved that if [Formula: see text] holds then Axiom [Formula: see text] holds, with no additional assumptions. The key question now concerns the relationship between [Formula: see text] and Axiom [Formula: see text]. This is because the foundational issues raised by the problem of Axiom [Formula: see text] vs. [Formula: see text] arguably persist in the problem of Axiom [Formula: see text] vs. [Formula: see text]. The first of our two main theorems is that Axiom [Formula: see text] is equivalent to Axiom [Formula: see text], and as a corollary we show that Axiom [Formula: see text] fails in all the known models of [Formula: see text]. This suggests that [Formula: see text] actually refutes Axiom [Formula: see text]. Our second main theorem is that the [Formula: see text] Conjecture holds assuming [Formula: see text]. This is the strongest partial result known on this conjecture which is one of the central open problems of [Formula: see text]-theory and [Formula: see text]-logic. These results identify a fundamental asymmetry between the Continuum Hypothesis and any axiom which is both [Formula: see text]-expressible and which implies [Formula: see text], on the basis of generic absoluteness for the simplest of the nontrivial sentences of Third-Order Number Theory. These are the [Formula: see text]-sentences with no parameters. Such sentences are those which simply assert the existence of a set [Formula: see text] for which some property involving only quantification over [Formula: see text] holds.
Targeted Energy Transfer Evaluation for Nonlinear Vibrations of Elastic Medium-Finite Length Beam System Using Nonlinear Energy Sink Theory
Authors: Ma Jianjun , Liu Zongtong , Wang Chaosheng , Wang Songyang , Li Da
Published: March 2024

The elastic medium can usually reduce the vibration of supporting structure, and the impact of the interaction on the vibration characteristics of the structure is similar to the characteristic of nonlinear energy sink. At present, the dynamic research of beam on elastic foundation considering soil motion has been paid more and more attention. According to the modified Winkler model, the finite-depth elastic medium can be considered to the nonlinear energy sink mass, and the vibration energy dissipation capacity and parameter optimization of the elastic medium supporting finite-length beam under half sine pulse are studied. The Galerkin truncation is applied to the discretization of the governing equations. The numerical solution of the beam coupling system with simple support on the elastic medium is obtained by applying the fourth-order Runge–Kutta method. Based on this, the input energy ratio of the elastic medium dissipation is investigated. Furthermore, through the analysis and optimization of targeted energy transfer and dissipation, the dissipation effect of the finite range elastic medium on the vibration energy of its supporting beam is revealed, and the optimal parameter range of the elastic medium is proved. The results show that after adjusting the elastic medium parameters by technical means, the nonlinear energy sink can absorb most of the vibration energy of the beam quickly and effectively, and the optimal energy dissipation ratio can reach 95.16[Formula: see text]. The quantitative evaluation of the energy dissipation in elastic medium within soil–structure interaction effect is realized.
Structural Damage Identification Based on Preprocessing Samples Mixed Training of Multi-Channel and Multi-Source Dynamic Response Data
Authors: He Wei , Gong Rongyao , Wang Ningbo , Liu Yue , Peng Mingqi , Tan Haizhou
Published: March 2024

Previous studies have shown that sampling processing and identification methods for neural networks damage identification in multi-channel and multi-source structural dynamic response data exhibit diversity, and the robustness and generalization issues of the model have not been effectively solved. This paper proposes a sample preprocessing technique and mixed training method suitable for multi-channel and multi-source dynamic response data to optimize the current structural damage identification methods based on neural networks. Through multi-dimensional discrete autocorrelation processing and Fourier transform, the preprocessed datasets from multiple sensors with multi-channel can access multi-channel CNN. Furthermore, the measured datasets from the actual structures are mixed with numerical simulation datasets before being used for neural network model training to address the model calibration and the imbalanced sample size under each classification label. The results of extensive model experiments and finite element verification of specimens show that the method performs outstandingly in detecting and identifying damage to simply supported beam structures using multi-channel CNN. The neural network model trained with preprocessed samples exhibits excellent robustness. The model using the mixed training method still performs well in identifying the accuracy of damage location and degree in simply supported beam structures after changing beam section and initial excitation. The method has certain generalization ability in detecting unknown damage in simply supported beam structures.
Fragility Analysis of a Transmission Tower-Line System Subjected to Wind and Ice Loads Considering Fatigue Damage
Authors: Li Jia-Xiang , Zuo Yu-Shun , Wang Ling-Peng , Dong Zhi-Qian
Published: March 2024

Disasters such as ice and wind can pose a serious threat to the normal operation of power transmission lines. Wind-induced fatigue damage can further reduce the load-carrying capacity of transmission towers, increasing their fragility to ice and wind disasters. To assess the comprehensive capability of transmission towers to resist extreme ice and wind disasters, this paper proposes a failure probability evaluation framework for transmission towers considering wind-induced fatigue damage under the coupled effect of ice and wind. Taking a certain transmission line in Hunan as an example, the failure probability caused by ice and wind disasters is calculated for different years of service. First, based on the historical meteorological data in three cities in Hunan, a joint probability model of wind speed and wind direction considering their correlation is established using the copula function. Then, based on this probability model, the wind-induced fatigue damage of transmission towers is calculated using the Miner linear damage theory and the S-N curve. Subsequently, the fragility of the tower under the coupled load of ice and wind is calculated for different years of service. Finally, by combining the structural fragility function with the joint probability distribution model of ice thickness and wind speed, the collapse probability of the transmission tower under the action of ice and wind disasters is calculated. The results indicate that the influence of wind-induced fatigue damage cannot be ignored when transmission towers encounter ice and wind disasters. With increasing service time, the ability of transmission towers to resist ice and wind disasters gradually decreases, and the failure probability also increases under extreme ice and wind conditions.
Frequency Regulation in Nanocomposite Sandwich Joined Conical-Conical Shells with Open Cell Foam Partially Supported by Pasternak Elastic Foundation Using GDQ
Authors: Qiu Muwei , Qiu Huanqing , Zhang Zhaogui
Published: March 2024

This study investigated the natural vibration of a sandwich conical-conical shell that is partially supported by Winkler–Pasternak foundations. The sandwich system comprises an open-cell foam (OCF) core and laminated composite face sheets reinforced with graphene platelets using functionally graded models (FG-GPLRC). To account for through-the-thickness shear deformations and rotary inertias, the first-order theory of shells is combined with Donnell-type kinematic assumptions. Hamilton’s principle is utilized to establish the general motion equations and related boundary and continuity conditions. The resulting system of equations is discretized using the semi-analytical generalized differential quadrature (GDQ) approach. An eigenvalue problem is formulated to analyze the corresponding mode shapes and vibration frequencies for the shell ends and continuity criteria under various boundary conditions. Parametric experiments are conducted for sandwich conical-conical shells partially supported by Winkler–Pasternak foundations. This study examined the impact of multiple factors on the frequency of a joined shell structure, including the total thickness, FG-GPL face sheet thickness, various boundary conditions, the length of each cone segment, and the Winkler and shear elastic foundation. Notably, this research also analyzed the effects of a partial elastic foundation on the structure’s frequency for the first time.
Improved Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics for the Three-Dimensional Solid Impact Problems
Authors: Wang Lu , Xu Fei , Yang Yang
Published: March 2024

Total Lagrangian-Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics (TL-SPH) method is an important method to improve the tensile instability of traditional SPH, but it still faces some defects, such as insufficient accuracy at boundary region, difficulty in obtaining damage and applying interface conditions. Therefore, the high-order TL-SPH is applied for the elastic–plastic solid. A damage model is proposed by adaptively transforming the type of kernel function. Furthermore, a Riemann contact algorithm is introduced for different solids. The advantages of the methods in improving tensile instability and simulating damage are verified by the cases of the plates and the notched beams with an impact load.
Bouncing behavior in f(R,Lm) gravity: Phantom crossing and energy conditions
Authors: Koussour M. , Myrzakulov N. , Rayimbaev Javlon , Alfedeel Alnadhief H. A. , Elkhair H. M.
Published: March 2024

In this paper, we investigate the bouncing behavior of the universe within the framework of [Formula: see text] gravity, using a simple form of [Formula: see text] (where [Formula: see text] is a free model parameter) as previously studied. The model predicts a vanishing Hubble parameter in the early and late times, with the deceleration parameter approaching a specific limit at the bouncing point. The EoS parameter is observed to cross the phantom divide line ([Formula: see text]) near the bouncing point, indicating a significant transition from a contracting to an expanding phase. The model satisfies the necessary energy conditions for a successful bouncing scenario, with violations indicating exotic matter near the bouncing point. Stability conditions are satisfied for certain values of [Formula: see text] near the bouncing point, but potential instabilities in late-time evolution require further investigation. Finally, we conclude that the [Formula: see text] gravity model is promising for understanding the universe’s dynamics, especially during events like the bouncing phase.
Discussion of singularity-free embedding stellar structures in f(R) gravity utilizing scalar potential
Authors: Malik Adnan , Naz Tayyaba , Marwa Ummay , Bhar Piyali , Ali Akram , Yousaf Z.
Published: March 2024

In this paper, our purpose is to investigate the anisotropic stellar structure caused by [Formula: see text] modified gravity, where [Formula: see text] represents the Ricci scalar and [Formula: see text] represents the scalar potential. This study emphasizes the impact of static spherically symmetric stellar structures using anisotropic distribution. Furthermore, an anisotropic matter source is employed to explore the stability of star formations. To get the value of unknown parameters of the compact structures, we compare the Schwarzschild metric to external geometry. Moreover, we examine the physical attributes of compact objects by presuming a viable [Formula: see text] gravity model. We analyze the graphical behavior of density and pressure, the Tolman–Oppenheimer–Volkov equation, energy conditions, mass function, surface redshift, and adiabatic index. It is recognized that all the obtained results deliver emphatic evidence for the stability of our considered realistic stars.
On the structure of prime and semiprime rings with generalized skew derivations
Authors: Argaç Nurcan , De Filippis Vincenzo
Published: March 2024

Let [Formula: see text] be a ring of characteristic different from [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] fixed positive integers, [Formula: see text] a noncentral Lie ideal of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] a nonzero generalized skew derivation of [Formula: see text].

We prove the following results:

(a) If [Formula: see text] is prime and there exists [Formula: see text] such that [Formula: see text] then [Formula: see text], the [Formula: see text] matrix ring over a field [Formula: see text]. (b) If [Formula: see text] is semiprime and [Formula: see text] then either [Formula: see text] centralizes a nonzero ideal of [Formula: see text] or [Formula: see text] is a polynomial identity for [Formula: see text].
Some results on root cube mean cordial labeling
Authors: Mundadiya Sneha , Parejiya Jaydeep , Jariya M. M.
Published: March 2024

All the graphs considered in this paper are simple and undirected. Let [Formula: see text] be a simple undirected graph. A function [Formula: see text] is called root cube mean cordial labeling if the induced function [Formula: see text] defined by [Formula: see text] satisfies the condition [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] for any [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] denotes the number of vertices and number of edges with label [Formula: see text], respectively, and [Formula: see text] denotes the greatest integer less than or equals to [Formula: see text]. The [Formula: see text] is called root cube mean cordial if it admits root cube mean cordial labeling. In this paper, we have discussed root cube mean cordial labeling of some graphs. Also, we have provided some graphs which are not root cube mean cordial.