bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Generalized Zero-Shot Image Classification via Partially-Shared Multi-Task Representation Learning
Authors: Wang Gerui , Tang Sheng
Published: May 2023

Generalized Zero-Shot Learning (GZSL) holds significant research importance as it enables the classification of samples from both seen and unseen classes. A prevailing approach for GZSL is learning transferable representations that can generalize well to both seen and unseen classes during testing. This approach encompasses two key concepts: discriminative representations and semantic-relevant representations. “Semantic-relevant” facilitates the transfer of semantic knowledge using pre-defined semantic descriptors, while “discriminative” is crucial for accurate category discrimination. However, these two concepts are arguably inherently conflicting, as semantic descriptors are not specifically designed for image classification. Existing methods often struggle with balancing these two aspects and neglect the conflict between them, leading to suboptimal representation generalization and transferability to unseen classes. To address this issue, we propose a novel partially-shared multi-task representation learning method, termed PS-GZSL, which jointly preserves complementary and sharable knowledge between these two concepts. Specifically, we first propose a novel perspective that treats the learning of discriminative and semantic-relevant representations as optimizing a discrimination task and a visual-semantic alignment task, respectively. Then, to learn more complete and generalizable representations, PS-GZSL explicitly factorizes visual features into task-shared and task-specific representations and introduces two advanced tasks: an instance-level contrastive discrimination task and a relation-based visual-semantic alignment task. Furthermore, PS-GZSL employs Mixture-of-Experts (MoE) with a dropout mechanism to prevent representation degeneration and integrates a conditional GAN (cGAN) to synthesize unseen features for estimating unseen visual features. Extensive experiments and more competitive results on five widely-used GZSL benchmark datasets validate the effectiveness of our PS-GZSL.
The TgRas1 Gene Affects the Lactose Metabolism of Trichoderma guizhouense NJAU4742
Authors: Miao Jiaxi , Chen Chen , Gu Yajing , Zhu Han , Guo Haiyang , Liu Dongyang , Shen Qirong
Published: May 2023

Trichoderma is one of the fungi commonly used in fermentation engineering. The hydrolytic enzymes secreted by Trichoderma have great economic value. Trichoderma guizhouense NJAU4742 is a branch of Trichoderma harzianum, which also has application potential. Lactose can induce fungi to secrete cellulase. Unfortunately, neither the lactose-inducing effect nor the mechanism of lactose metabolism in the study of Trichoderma guizhouense NJAU4742 is clear. Our study showed that carbon sources such as glucose, galactose, and sucrose could not induce cellulase secretion from Trichoderma guizhouense NJAU4742. Lactose induced the filter paper activity of the cellulase secreted by Trichoderma to reach 4.13 ± 0.11 U·mL−1. The ratio of 0.4% lactose–0.6% straw is the best way to induce cellulase and is better than adding only straw or lactose. TgRas family genes respond differently to different carbon sources at the gene level, and these proteins may be involved in different carbon source metabolisms. The results of transcriptional responses under different growth conditions showed that TgRas1 occupies a dominant position among TgRas family genes. The growth of the ΔTgRas1 mutant on the plate was inhibited, and the hyphae were dense, thick, and swollen. Under the condition of lactose, the biomass of ΔTgRas1 was severely inhibited in liquid fermentation, and its biomass decreased by 91.43% compared with WT. The liquid fermentation of ΔTgRas1 under other carbon source conditions was not affected.
Exilic Roots and Paths of Marronage: Breaching Walls of Space and Memory in the Historical Poetics of Dénètem Touam Bona
Authors: de Laforcade Geoffroy
Published: May 2023

Afropean anthropologist, philosopher, and art curator Dénètem Touam Bona is an original “border thinker” and “crosser” of geographic and conceptual boundaries working within a tradition of Caribbean historical poetics, notably represented by Édouard Glissant. He explores ideas of “fugue” and “refuge” in light of the experience of maroons or escaped slaves, key actors of the simultaneous expansion of freedom and industrial-scale chattel slavery in the Americas. In “Freedom as Marronage” (2015), Neill Roberts defines freedom itself as perpetual flight, and locates its very origins in the liminal and transitional spaces of slave escape, offering a perspective on modernity that gives voice to hunted fugitives, defiant of its ecology, enclosures, and definition, and who were ultimately excised from its archive. Touam Bona’s “cosmo-poetics” excavates marronage as a mode of invention, subterfuge and utopian projection that revisits its history and representation; sacred, musical, ecological, and corporeal idioms; and alternative forms of community, while also inviting contemporary parallels with the “captives” of the global border regime, namely fugitives, nomads, refugees, and asylum seekers who perpetually evade norms, controls, and domestication. He deploys the metaphor of the liana, a long-stemmed tropical vine that climbs and twines through dense forests, weaving relation in defiance of predation, to evoke colonized and displaced peoples’ subterranean evasion of commodification, classification, control, cultural erasure, and ecological annihilation. This article frames his work within an Afro-diasporic history and transnational cultural criticism that envisions fugitivity and exilic spaces as dissonant forms of resistance to the coloniality of power, and their relevance to understanding racialization, representations of the past, and narratives of freedom and belonging across borders.
Influence of Face Masks on Physiological and Subjective Response during 130 min of Simulated Light and Medium Physical Manual Work—An Explorative Study
Authors: Steinhilber Benjamin , Seibt Robert , Gabriel Julia , Bär Mona , Dilek Ümütyaz , Brandt Adrian , Martus Peter , Rieger Monika A.
Published: May 2023

Background: Undesirable side effects from wearing face masks during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic continue to be discussed and pose a challenge to occupational health and safety when recommending safe application. Only few studies examined the effects of continuously wearing a face mask for more than one hour. Therefore, the influence of wearing a medical mask (MedMask) and a filtering facepiece class II respirator (FFP2) on the physiological and subjective outcomes in the course of 130 min of manual work was exploratively investigated. Physical work load and cardiorespiratory fitness levels were additionally considered as moderating factors. Methods: Twenty-four healthy subjects (12 females) from three different cardiorespiratory fitness levels each performed 130 min of simulated manual work with light and medium physical workload using either no mask, a MedMask or FFP2. Heart rate, transcutaneous oxygen and carbon dioxide partial pressure (PtcO2, PtcCO2) as well as perceived physical exertion and respiratory effort were assessed continuously at discrete time intervals. Wearing comfort of the masks were additionally rated after the working period. Results: There was no difference in time-dependent changes of physiological outcomes when using either a MedMask or a FFP2 compared to not wearing a mask. A stronger increase over time in perceived respiratory effort occurred when the face masks were worn, being more prominent for FFP2. Physical workload level and cardiorespiratory fitness level were no moderating factors and higher wearing comfort was rated for the MedMask. Conclusion: Our results suggest that using face masks during light and medium physical manual work does not induce detrimental side effects. Prolonged wearing episodes appeared to increase respiratory effort, but without affecting human physiology in a clinically relevant way.
Non-Destructive Identification and Characterization of Crystopal, A Novel Mid-Twentieth Century Plastic
Authors: Boyden Mary N. , Hicks Courtney K. , Korter Timothy M.
Published: May 2023

Crystopal is a mechanically strong yet highly decorative plastic with a translucent and crackled appearance that was produced in the 1960s by the artist and plastics engineer Armand G. Winfield (1919–2009) and his company, Crystopal, Ltd. Many of Winfield’s collected plastic objects are housed within the Syracuse University Libraries, but some lack complete archival descriptions, including plastic compositions. To address this, the non-invasive and non-destructive determination of the polymer identities in Winfield’s artifacts was performed by Raman spectroscopy. Our studies generally begin with the database matching of an artifact spectrum to that of a polymer standard, but when objects known to be fabricated from Crystopal were analyzed, a database of over 100 representative polymers failed to yield the chemical identity of the plastic. However, the Raman spectrum of Crystopal displayed a unique chemical fingerprint that revealed it to be composed of an unsaturated polyester crosslinked with styrene. This Raman spectrum was added to the database and used as reference for the unambiguous identification of Crystopal artifacts, distinguishing them from decorative plastics with similar appearances. The addition of Crystopal to the polymer database provides a pathway toward establishing artifact provenance and preserving objects crafted from this unique and decorative plastic.
Calcium-Based Sorbent Carbonation at Low Temperature via Reactive Milling under CO2
Authors: Taghavi Kouzehkanan Seyed Morteza , Hassani Ehsan , Feyzbar-Khalkhali-Nejad Farshad , Oh Tae-Sik
Published: May 2023

The carbonation behavior of calcium-containing sorbents, CaO and Ca(OH)2, was investigated under pressurized CO2 at nominal room temperature. The carbonation reaction was mechanically driven via reactive ball milling. The carbonation rate was determined by monitoring the CO2 pressure inside the sealed milling jar. Two different versions of CaO were fabricated as starting materials. The addition of citric acid in CaO synthesis resulted in a significant increase in sorbent surface area, bringing up the conversion of CO2 from 18% to 41% after 3 h of reactive milling. The hydroxide formation from these two oxides closed the surface area gap. Nevertheless, we found that hydroxides had a higher initial carbonation rate and greater final CO2 uptake than their oxide counterparts. However, the formation of byproduct water limited the further carbonation of Ca(OH)2. When we added a controlled amount of water to the CaO-containing milling jar, the highest carbonation rate and most extensive CO2 uptake were attained due to the in situ formation of reactive Ca(OH)2 nanoparticles. We saw CaCO3 X-ray diffraction peaks only when Ca(OH)2 was involved in this low-temperature carbonation, indicating that the grain growth of CaCO3 is easier on the Ca(OH)2 surface than on the CaO surface. We used the Friedman isoconversional method to calculate the effective activation energy of decarbonation for the high surface area CaO sorbent milled with water. The average effective activation energy was found to be about 72 kJ mol−1, and its magnitude started to decrease significantly from 50% sorbent regeneration. The drastic change of the effective activation energy during decarbonation suggests that CaCO3, formed at nominal room temperature by reactive milling under pressurized CO2, should undergo a more drastic morphology change than the typical thermally carbonated CaCO3.
Deceptive Tricks in Artificial Intelligence: Adversarial Attacks in Ophthalmology
Authors: Zbrzezny Agnieszka M. , Grzybowski Andrzej E.
Published: May 2023

The artificial intelligence (AI) systems used for diagnosing ophthalmic diseases have significantly progressed in recent years. The diagnosis of difficult eye conditions, such as cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, and retinopathy of prematurity, has become significantly less complicated as a result of the development of AI algorithms, which are currently on par with ophthalmologists in terms of their level of effectiveness. However, in the context of building AI systems for medical applications such as identifying eye diseases, addressing the challenges of safety and trustworthiness is paramount, including the emerging threat of adversarial attacks. Research has increasingly focused on understanding and mitigating these attacks, with numerous articles discussing this topic in recent years. As a starting point for our discussion, we used the paper by Ma et al. “Understanding Adversarial Attacks on Deep Learning Based Medical Image Analysis Systems”. A literature review was performed for this study, which included a thorough search of open-access research papers using online sources (PubMed and Google). The research provides examples of unique attack strategies for medical images. Unfortunately, unique algorithms for attacks on the various ophthalmic image types have yet to be developed. It is a task that needs to be performed. As a result, it is necessary to build algorithms that validate the computation and explain the findings of artificial intelligence models. In this article, we focus on adversarial attacks, one of the most well-known attack methods, which provide evidence (i.e., adversarial examples) of the lack of resilience of decision models that do not include provable guarantees. Adversarial attacks have the potential to provide inaccurate findings in deep learning systems and can have catastrophic effects in the healthcare industry, such as healthcare financing fraud and wrong diagnosis.
Study on the Corrosion Behavior of D36 Steel Plate and H62 Copper Alloy Net for Marine Aquaculture Facilities in Simulated Seawater
Authors: Gao Fengfeng , Gui Fukun , Feng Dejun , Qu Xiaoyu , Hu Fuxiang , Yang Xu
Published: May 2023

Marine aquaculture facilities have been working in a high salt and humidity marine environment for a long time, which makes them be inevitably affected by seawater corrosion, especially the main structures such as metal mesh and frame. Therefore, studying the corrosion behavior of net and frame steel is of great significance for the selection of materials and corrosion protection of marine aquaculture facilities. The influence of NaCl concentrations and immersion state on self-corrosion behavior and the influence of layer thickness and overlapping area on galvanic corrosion behavior of H62 copper alloy mesh/D36 steel plate was discussed in this study using weight loss and electrochemical measurements. The tensile tests were conducted to observe the influence of different corrosion conditions on maximum force and tensile strength of the net. The corrosion rate of the two materials increased rapidly with the increase of NaCl concentrations; the corrosion rate of both materials showed the decreasing trend with the extension of time, and the corrosion rate of H62 was always lower than D36 steel. When two materials were coupled, the galvanic corrosion rate would decrease with the increase of the layer thickness and overlapping area. The tensile results were consistent with the corrosion results. When these two materials work together, adding layer thickness or increasing the overlapping area is one of the ways to protect the frame steel to a certain extent.
Factors Influencing Four Decades of Forest Change in Guizhou Province, China
Authors: Guo Xiaona , Chen Ruishan , Meadows Michael E. , Li Qiang , Xia Zilong , Pan Zhenzhen
Published: May 2023

Globally, the loss of forest vegetation is a significant concern due to the crucial roles that forests play in the Earth’s system, including the provision of ecosystem services, participation in biogeochemical cycles, and support for human well-being. Forests are especially critical in mountains environments, where deforestation can lead to accelerated biodiversity loss, soil erosion, flooding, and reduced agricultural productivity, as well as increased poverty rates. In response to these problems, China has implemented a series of ecological restoration programs aimed at restoring forests. However, there is a lack of knowledge as to whether the forest cover is increasing or decreasing, as well as the relative roles played by natural and human factors in forest change. Here, we aim to address these issues by analyzing the pattern and process of the forest changes in Guizhou province, a typical mountainous karst area with a fragile environment in southwestern China, between 1980 and 2018, and evaluating the extent to which these forest changes were influenced by natural and anthropogenic driving forces. Using a temporal sequence of satellite images and a Markov model, we found that the forest cover increased by 468 km2, and that over 33% of the cropland in Guizhou province was converted into forest between 1980 and 2018, with the most significant increases in the forest cover occurring in Qiandongnan. Through correlation analyses and generalized linear model (GLM) regression, we demonstrate that management factors exerted a more significant positive impact on the forest cover than climate change. While the mean annual precipitation and temperature were mostly stable during the period studied, the effects of population and gross domestic product (GDP) on the forest changes weakened, and the influence of land-use change markedly increased. These findings provide valuable information for resource managers engaging in forest protection, deforestation prevention, and ecological restoration in similar regions.
Quaternion Matrix Factorization for Low-Rank Quaternion Matrix Completion
Authors: Chen Jiang-Feng , Wang Qing-Wen , Song Guang-Jing , Li Tao
Published: May 2023

The main aim of this paper is to study quaternion matrix factorization for low-rank quaternion matrix completion and its applications in color image processing. For the real-world color images, we proposed a novel model called low-rank quaternion matrix completion (LRQC), which adds total variation and Tikhonov regularization to the factor quaternion matrices to preserve the spatial/temporal smoothness. Moreover, a proximal alternating minimization (PAM) algorithm was proposed to tackle the corresponding optimal problem. Numerical results on color images indicate the advantages of our method.
Detection of Unknown DDoS Attack Using Convolutional Neural Networks Featuring Geometrical Metric
Authors: Shieh Chin-Shiuh , Nguyen Thanh-Tuan , Horng Mong-Fong
Published: May 2023

DDoS attacks remain a persistent cybersecurity threat, blocking services to legitimate users and causing significant damage to reputation, finances, and potential customers. For the detection of DDoS attacks, machine learning techniques such as supervised learning have been extensively employed, but their effectiveness declines when the framework confronts patterns exterior to the dataset. In addition, DDoS attack schemes continue to improve, rendering conventional data model-based training ineffectual. We have developed a novelty open-set recognition framework for DDoS attack detection to overcome the challenges of traditional methods. Our framework is built on a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) construction featuring geometrical metric (CNN-Geo), which utilizes deep learning techniques to enhance accuracy. In addition, we have integrated an incremental learning module that can efficiently incorporate novel unknown traffic identified by telecommunication experts through the monitoring process. This unique approach provides an effective solution for identifying and alleviating DDoS. The module continuously improves the model’s performance by incorporating new knowledge and adapting to new attack patterns. The proposed model can detect unknown DDoS attacks with a detection rate of over 99% on conventional attacks from CICIDS2017. The model’s accuracy is further enhanced by 99.8% toward unknown attacks with the open datasets CICDDoS2019.
Current Trends in Recombinant Human Bone Morphogenetic Protein 2 (rhBMP2) Usage for Spinal Fusion Surgery
Authors: Patel Harshadkumar A. , Wellington Ian J. , Lubonja Klair , Stelzer John W. , Antonacci Christopher L. , Coskun Ergin , Cote Mark P. , Singh Hardeep , Mallozzi Scott S. , Moss Isaac L.
Published: May 2023

(1) Background: Since first approved by the FDA, on-label and off-label usage of recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein 2 (rhBMP2) for spinal fusion surgeries has become widespread. While many studies have investigated the safety and efficacy of its use, as well as its economic impact, few have looked at the current trends in its on- and off-label use. The goal of this study is to evaluate the current trends of on- and off-label rhBMP2 use for spinal fusion surgery. (2) Methods: A deidentified survey was created and electronically distributed to members of two international spine societies. Surgeons were asked to report their demographic information, surgical experience, and current usage of rhBMP2. They were then presented with five spinal fusion procedures and asked to report if they use rhBMP2 for these indications in their current practice. Responses were stratified between rhBMP2 users vs. non-users and on-label vs. off-label use. Data were analyzed using chi-square with Fisher’s exact test for categorical data. (3) Results: A total of 146 respondents completed the survey with a response rate of 20.5%. There was no difference in overall rhBMP2 usage based on specialty, experience, or number of cases per year. Fellowship-trained surgeons and those who practice in the United States were more likely to use rhBMP2. Surgeons who were trained in the Southeast and Midwest regions reported the highest usage rates. rhBMP2 use was more common among fellowship-trained and US surgeons for ALIFs; non-US surgeons for multilevel anterior cervical discectomy and fusions; and fellowship-trained and orthopedic spine surgeons for lateral lumbar interbody fusions. Non-US surgeons were more likely to use rhBMP2 for off-label indications compared to surgeons from the US. (4) Conclusions: While various demographics of surgeons report different rates of rhBMP2 use, off-label use remains relatively commonplace amongst practicing spine surgeons.
A Review of Continuum Mechanics for Mechanical Deformation of Lipid Membranes
Authors: Kim Jichul
Published: May 2023

Mechanical deformation of lipid membranes plays important roles in various cellular tasks. Curvature deformation and lateral stretching are two major energy contributions to the mechanical deformation of lipid membranes. In this paper, continuum theories for these two major membrane deformation events were reviewed. Theories based on curvature elasticity and lateral surface tension were introduced. Numerical methods as well as biological applications of the theories were discussed.
Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Hastelloy X Fabricated Using Directed Energy Deposition
Authors: Lee Yoon-Sun , Sung Ji-Hyun
Published: May 2023

Laser-aided additive manufacturing is used for complex shapes and Ni-based superalloy parts. This study aimed to optimize the additive manufacturing process of Hastelloy X alloy to obtain its excellent mechanical properties without pores or cracks in the additively manufactured parts. The additively manufactured Hastelloy X was analyzed by comparing porosity, microstructure, and mechanical properties in as-built and post-heat treatment conditions. In addition, the pores existing inside the as-built specimen considerably decreased after the hot isostatic press (HIP) treatment. Furthermore, cell/columnar microstructures were observed owing to a fast cooling rate in the as-built condition. However, after heat treatment, dendrite structures disappeared, and recrystallized equiaxed grains were observed. The tensile test results showed that there was mechanical anisotropy along the vertical and horizontal directions, and as the microstructure changed to equiaxed grains after heat treatment, the mechanical anisotropy decreased, and the high-temperature properties improved.
Quenched and Tempered Steels Welded Structures: Modified Gas Metal Arc Welding-Pulse vs. Shielded Metal Arc Welding
Authors: Alipooramirabad Houman , Cornish Neville , Kurji Rahim , Roccisano Anthony , Ghomashchi Reza
Published: May 2023

Quench and tempered (Q&T) steels are widely used for a diverse range of applications, particularly in the mining and defence industry, where wear and unconventional loading are common. Furthermore, they are particularly prone to hydrogen assisted cold cracking (HACC), imposing a more careful selection of consumables and requiring a comparably higher welder skill level to fabricate defect-free structures. Therefore, the cost of fabrication of welded structures is higher when the more preferred welding technique of shielded metal arc welding, SMAW, is employed. The introduction of the modified pulsed arc mode of depositions, a variation to pulsed arc deposition, has improved the productivity rates and can be utilised by welders with a greater skill variations. In this study, full-strength butt welds of Q&T steel (AS/NZS 3597 Grade 700), with the thickness of 20 mm, are fabricated under a high level of restraint using both conventional SMAW and modified pulse gas metal welding (GMAW-P). The study investigated the economic feasibility of the two deposition modes and the propensity to cracking for the welded joints under high restraint conditions. Utilising the modified GMAW-P resulted in 63% and 88% reduction in the ‘Arc-On’ time and the total normalised fabrication time, respectively. However, strict controls must be implemented, due to the increased propensity to lack of fusion-type defects, to optimise the welding procedure and mediate for such defects if GMAW-P is to provide a techno-economically beneficial alternative to conventional SMAW when welding Q&T steels.
Arsinothricin Inhibits Plasmodium falciparum Proliferation in Blood and Blocks Parasite Transmission to Mosquitoes
Authors: Yoshinaga Masafumi , Niu Guodong , Yoshinaga-Sakurai Kunie , Nadar Venkadesh S. , Wang Xiaohong , Rosen Barry P. , Li Jun
Published: May 2023

Malaria, caused by Plasmodium protozoal parasites, remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. The Plasmodium parasite has a complex life cycle, with asexual and sexual forms in humans and Anopheles mosquitoes. Most antimalarials target only the symptomatic asexual blood stage. However, to ensure malaria eradication, new drugs with efficacy at multiple stages of the life cycle are necessary. We previously demonstrated that arsinothricin (AST), a newly discovered organoarsenical natural product, is a potent broad-spectrum antibiotic that inhibits the growth of various prokaryotic pathogens. Here, we report that AST is an effective multi-stage antimalarial. AST is a nonproteinogenic amino acid analog of glutamate that inhibits prokaryotic glutamine synthetase (GS). Phylogenetic analysis shows that Plasmodium GS, which is expressed throughout all stages of the parasite life cycle, is more closely related to prokaryotic GS than eukaryotic GS. AST potently inhibits Plasmodium GS, while it is less effective on human GS. Notably, AST effectively inhibits both Plasmodium erythrocytic proliferation and parasite transmission to mosquitoes. In contrast, AST is relatively nontoxic to a number of human cell lines, suggesting that AST is selective against malaria pathogens, with little negative effect on the human host. We propose that AST is a promising lead compound for developing a new class of multi-stage antimalarials.
Comprehensive Bioinformatics Analysis of the Biodiversity of Lsm Proteins in the Archaea Domain
Authors: Payá Gloria , Bautista Vanesa , Camacho Mónica , Esclapez Julia , Bonete María-José
Published: May 2023

The Sm protein superfamily includes Sm, like-Sm (Lsm), and Hfq proteins. Sm and Lsm proteins are found in the Eukarya and Archaea domains, respectively, while Hfq proteins exist in the Bacteria domain. Even though Sm and Hfq proteins have been extensively studied, archaeal Lsm proteins still require further exploration. In this work, different bioinformatics tools are used to understand the diversity and distribution of 168 Lsm proteins in 109 archaeal species to increase the global understanding of these proteins. All 109 archaeal species analyzed encode one to three Lsm proteins in their genome. Lsm proteins can be classified into two groups based on molecular weight. Regarding the gene environment of lsm genes, many of these genes are located adjacent to transcriptional regulators of the Lrp/AsnC and MarR families, RNA-binding proteins, and ribosomal protein L37e. Notably, only proteins from species of the class Halobacteria conserved the internal and external residues of the RNA-binding site identified in Pyrococcus abyssi, despite belonging to different taxonomic orders. In most species, the Lsm genes show associations with 11 genes: rpl7ae, rpl37e, fusA, flpA, purF, rrp4, rrp41, hel308, rpoD, rpoH, and rpoN. We propose that most archaeal Lsm proteins are related to the RNA metabolism, and the larger Lsm proteins could perform different functions and/or act through other mechanisms of action.
Creating Implicit Measure Stimulus Sets Using a Multi-Step Piloting Method
Authors: Phipps Daniel J. , Hamilton Kyra
Published: May 2023

The effect of arbitrary stimulus selection is a persistent concern when employing implicit measures. The current study tests a data-driven multi-step procedure to create stimulus items using a combination of free-recall and survey data. Six sets of stimulus items were created, representing healthy food and high sugar items in children, adolescents, and adults. Selected items were highly representative of the target concepts, in frequent use, and of near equal length. Tests of the piloted items in two samples showed slightly higher implicit measure–behavior relations compared to a previously used measure, providing preliminary support for the value in empirically based stimulus selection. Further, the items reported as being the most associated with their target concepts differed notably from what one may expect from the guidelines or population consumption patterns, highlighting the importance of informed stimulus selection.
High-Performance Layered CaV4O9-MXene Composite Cathodes for Aqueous Zinc Ion Batteries
Authors: Fang Luan , Lin Li , Wu Zhuomei , Xu Tianhao , Wang Xuxu , Chang Limin , Nie Ping
Published: May 2023

Due to their reliability, affordability and high safety, rechargeable aqueous zinc ion batteries (ZIBs) have garnered a lot of attention. Nevertheless, undesirable long-term cycle performance and the inadequate energy density of cathode materials impede the development of ZIBs. Herein, we report a layered CaV4O9-MXene (Ti3C2Tx) composite assembled using CaV4O9 nanosheets on Ti3C2Tx and investigate its electrochemical performance as a new cathode for ZIBs, where CaV4O9 nanosheets attached on the surface of MXene and interlamination create a layered 2D structure, efficiently improving the electrical conductivity of CaV4O9 and avoiding the stacking of MXene nanosheets. The structure also enables fast ion and electron transport. Further discussion is conducted on the effects of adding MXene in various amounts on the morphology and electrochemical properties. The composite shows an improved reversible capacity of 274.3 mA h g−1 at 0.1 A g−1, superior rate capabilities at 7 A g−1, and a high specific capacity of 107.6 mA h g−1 can be delivered after 2000 cycles at a current density of 1 A g−1. The improvement of the electrochemical performance is due to its unique layered structure, high electrical conductivity, and pseudo capacitance behavior.
Multi-Objective Optimization of Variable Density Multi-Layer Insulation for Liquid Hydrogen Containers Based on Reduced-Order Surrogate Model
Authors: Wu Hao , Tan Hongbo , Xu Zhangliang , Li Yanzhong
Published: May 2023

For liquid hydrogen transportation, thermal insulation materials that are lightweight, compact and exhibit high-performance have been pursued for several decades, and variable density multi-layer insulation (VD-MLI) has been regarded as a promising choice. The thermal insulation performance of the insulation materials is important, but is not at the top of the list; many constraints, such as the space and weight of the insulation structures, are imposed on the design of a VD-MLI. Consequently, this makes the optimization of VD-MLIs more complicated. The present authors conducted a multi-objective optimization of a VD-MLI stacked with specific insulation units. The number of repetitions of the basic insulation unit was regarded as the dimensionless design parameter of the VD-MLI. Based on the experimentally validated layer-by-layer (LBL) model for MLI design, the multi-objective optimization of VD-MLI for liquid hydrogen storage was conducted by the combination of proper orthogonal decomposition with a general regression neural network (POD-GRNN) surrogate model optimization framework. The results showed that the optimal solutions for VD-MLI configurations could be achieved under different constraints. The present optimization framework provides a new reference for the optimization of VD-MLI for cryogenic liquid storage.
Rolling the Dice: A Comprehensive Review of the New Forms of Gambling and Psychological Clinical Recommendations
Authors: Casu Mirko , Belfiore Cecilia Ilaria , Caponnetto Pasquale
Published: May 2023

This study aims to analyze the main and most recent forms of gambling and related psychopathological disorders, also proposing psychological clinical recommendations. From November 2022 to February 2023, we searched the databases of PubMed, Web of Science, Health & Medical Collection, Elsevier Journal, and Springer for relevant studies performing different searches through different search strings. New forms of gambling are mostly related to new technological tools, such as the Internet, smartphones, social media, or electronic machines. The prevalence of online gambling affects all demographic groups, although 35–44-year-olds appear to have the largest share. Online gambling can lead to addiction, financial hardship, and mental health problems. It has also been statistically significantly associated with high levels of Gambling disorder, high levels of depression and anxiety, poor overall mental health, and alcohol use. Furthermore, it has been noted that online gamblers are more likely to engage in high-risk gambling behaviors and have a higher prevalence of comorbid mental disorders. The review highlights the need for continued research on the impact of new forms of gambling and the development of effective prevention and treatment strategies. Further research is needed to better understand the complex relationship between new forms of gambling and the development of gambling disorders.
Experiences of the Migrant Farmworkers during the Syndemic Due to COVID-19 in Spain
Authors: Rubio González Manuel , Jiménez-Lasserrotte María del Mar , Ugarte-Gurrutxaga María Idoia , El Marbouhe El Faqyr Karim , Granero-Molina José , Fernández-Sola Cayetano , Plaza del Pino Fernando Jesús
Published: May 2023

The present article addresses the COVID-19 syndemic, that is, the interaction of SARS-CoV-2 with other diseases that interact and are determined by patterns of social inequality. The living and working conditions of migrant farmworkers increases the transmission of COVID-19. Descriptions of the experiences of migrant farmworkers provided by the professionals from different organizations that tend to them allowed the authors to discover the syndical nature of COVID-19. This study is based on qualitative descriptive research. Seventeen workers from different organizations participated in the study, through in-depth interviews between January and June 2022. A thematic analysis was performed to analyze the qualitative data. Two main themes emerged: Non-compliance with the collective labor agreement, and non-compliance with workplace health and safety standards. The results suggest that the adverse living and working conditions of the migrant farmworkers increased their risk of COVID-19 infection, due to the lack of compliance with the health measures decreed. The vulnerability experienced by migrant farmworkers increased work conflicts and prompted their mobilization to fight for their rights.
Lysine-Based Silicone Surfactants
Authors: Camacho Ramirez Abygail , Melendez-Zamudio Miguel , Guerra Contreras Antonio , Brook Michael A.
Published: May 2023

Highly efficient silicone surfactants are typically based on polyether hydrophiles. As part of a program to increase the natural content of silicones, we describe the synthesis of silicone surfactants with amino acid hydrophiles (cysteine, arginine, and lysine). The compounds were prepared using a radial thiol–ene reaction with vinylsilicones for cysteine derivatives and a catalyst-free aza-Michael reaction with arginine and lysine. Short chain surfactants with silicone monomer:hydrophile ratios of 5:1 or less (e.g., telechelic silicones of lysine-linker-(Me2OSi)n-linker-lysine n = 10) were ineffective at stabilizing emulsions of silicone oil (D4): water. However, excellent surfactants were realized as the chain length (n) increased to 25 or 50, stabilizing water-in-oil emulsions with high water content (80% or 90%). The surfactants, especially the longer chain compounds, were stable against pH except <4 or >9 and survived freeze/thaw cycles. These surfactants contain 12–25% natural materials, improving their sustainability compared to those containing synthetic hydrophiles.
Multigenerational Effects of a Complex Human-Relevant Exposure during Folliculogenesis and Preimplantation Embryo Development: The FEDEXPO Study
Authors: El Fouikar Sara , Duranthon Véronique , Helies Virginie , Jammes Hélène , Couturier-Tarrade Anne , Gayrard Véronique , Van Acker Nathalie , Frenois François-Xavier , Archilla Catherine , Rousseau-Ralliard Delphine , Gatimel Nicolas , Léandri Roger
Published: May 2023

Animal toxicological studies often fail to mimic the complexity of the human exposome, associating low doses, combined molecules and long-term exposure. Since the reproductive potential of a woman begins in the fetal ovary, the literature regarding the disruption of its reproductive health by environmental toxicants remains limited. Studies draw attention to follicle development, a major determinant for the quality of the oocyte, and the preimplantation embryo, as both of them are targets for epigenetic reprogramming. The “Folliculogenesis and Embryo Development EXPOsure to a mixture of toxicants: evaluation in the rabbit model” (FEDEXPO) project emerged from consideration of these limitations and aims to evaluate in the rabbit model the impacts of an exposure to a mixture of known and suspected endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) during two specific windows, including folliculogenesis and preimplantation embryo development. The mixture combines eight environmental toxicants, namely perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (DDE), hexachlorobenzene (HCB), β-hexachlorocyclohexane (β-HCH), 2,2′4,4′-tetrabromodiphenyl ether (BDE-47), di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) and bisphenol S (BPS), at relevant exposure levels for reproductive-aged women based on biomonitoring data. The project will be organized in order to assess the consequences of this exposure on the ovarian function of the directly exposed F0 females and monitor the development and health of the F1 offspring from the preimplantation stage. Emphasis will be made on the reproductive health of the offspring. Lastly, this multigenerational study will also tackle potential mechanisms for the inheritance of health disruption via the oocyte or the preimplantation embryo.
Vibration Distribution Measurement of Car Door and Engine Head Using OPPA Vibration Distribution Analyzer
Authors: Yadi Mona , Morimoto Yoshiharu , Takaya Yasuhiro
Published: May 2023

In order to address the issue of vibration, it is crucial to accurately measure the vibration distribution. The authors previously developed the one-pitch phase analysis (OPPA) method, which allows for rapidly capturing the three-dimensional shape of a flat object. By integrating this method into a system, an OPPA vibration distribution measurement system was created, utilizing a line light source consisting of LEDs or optical fibers and also a high-speed camera to measure the vibrations of three-dimensional objects without physical contact. To further extend the application of the OPPA method to larger objects, such as cars, in this paper, a new system is introduced using a commercially available projector using a liquid crystal display (LCD) instead of a liner light source and a glass grating. This new system, which employs an ultra-short throw projector, is highly sensitive in displacement measurements and provides a wide-area analysis. These kinds of projectors produce noises at the frequency of the cooling fan and the refresh rate of the LCD. However, in this study, these noise sources were also examined. The capabilities of the new system are demonstrated through its application to the measurement of vibrations in a car door and an engine head. The measurement system and examples of its application are presented.
The approximation of bivariate functions by bivariate operators and GBS operators
Authors: Pop Ovidiu T.
Published: May 2023

In this paper we demonstrate a general approximation theorem for the bivariate functions by bivariate operators and GBS (Generalized Boolean Sum) operators.
A Voronovskaja-type formula for the \(q\)-Meyer-König and Zeller operators
Authors: Trif Tiberiu
Published: May 2023

A Voronovskaja-type formula for the \(q\)-Meyer-König and Zeller operators is presented.
Complexity analysis of primal-dual algorithms for the semidefinite linear complementarity problem
Authors: Achache Mohamed , Boudiaf Naima
Published: May 2023

In this paper a primal-dual path-following interior-point algorithm for the monotone semidefinite linear complementarity problem is presented. The algorithm is based on Nesterov-Todd search directions and on a suitable proximity for tracing approximately the central-path. We provide an unified analysis for both long and small-update primal-dual algorithms. Finally, the iteration bounds for these algorithms are obtained.
Double inequalities for quadrature formula of Gauss type
Authors: Heljiu Marius
Published: May 2023

Double inequalities for the remainder term of the Gauss quadrature formula are given. These inequalities are sharp. Will also be considered particular cases for \(n = 1, 2\).
On the semilocal convergence of derivative free methods for solving nonlinear equations
Authors: Argyros Ioannis K. , Ren Hongmin
Published: May 2023

We introduce a Derivative Free Method (DFM) for solving nonlinear equations in a Banach space setting. We provide a semilocal convergence analysis for DFM using recurrence relations. Numerical examples validating our theoretical results are also provided in this study to show that DFM is faster than other derivative free methods [9] using similar information.
Necessary and sufficient conditions for oscillation of the solutions of even order differential equations
Authors: Jin-Fa Cheng , Yu-Ming Chu
Published: May 2023

In this paper, we establish several necessary and sufficient conditions for oscillation of the solutions of the following even order differential equation\[x^{(n)}(t) + q(t)x^\gamma (t) = 0, \quad \mbox{$n$ is even},\]where \( q(t) \in C([t_0 ,\infty ),{\mathbb R}^ + )\) and \(\gamma\) is the quotient of odd positive integers.
Saturation results for the Lagrange max-product interpolation operator based on equidistant knots
Authors: Coroianu Lucian , Gal Sorin G.
Published: May 2023

In this paper we obtain the saturation order and a local inverse result in the approximation by the Lagrange max-product interpolation operator based on equidistant knots.
Virtually the same? Understanding virtual and F2F farmer audiences
Authors: Witzling Laura , Williams Eric , Wald Dara , Comito Jacqueline , Ripley Elizabeth
Published: May 2023

Agricultural and extension educators frequently employ a variety of methods to provide farmers with information about conservation practices. The introduction of virtual programming brought on in response to the COVID-19 pandemic set the stage for analysis of farmer outreach preferences with respect to face-to-face (F2F) versus virtual outreach. Using survey data of individuals who participated in field days in Iowa, we segmented participants based on their F2F or virtual attendance. We compared the groups based on key variables such as water quality concerns, communication behaviors, outreach preferences, and demographics. Our work suggests that a broad and dynamic communication strategy, including both in-person and virtual events, offers greater opportunities for dissemination of ideas and increases access to content.
Assessing the SNAP Consumer Environment at Farmers Markets
Authors: Young Gabrielle , Misyak Sarah , Johnson Meredith , Martin Natalie , Serrano Elena
Published: May 2023

The SNAP at Farmers Market Environmental Assessment was developed as a tool for market managers to examine SNAP participant accessibility for redeeming SNAP benefits at farmers markets. By completing the SNAP at Farmers Market Environmental Assessment, the tool can serve as a guide for providing practical next steps for market improvement. Extension practitioners and researchers, including SNAP-Ed staff, can use the assessment tool to support policy, systems, and environment change efforts that promote access to local, high-quality foods by SNAP consumers, the redemption of SNAP benefits, and potentially increased sales at farmers markets.
INTELLIGENT SYSTEMS AND THEIR APPLICATION IN EDUCATION
Authors: Сушков Д.В.
Published: May 2023

В статье анализируются понятия «мышление» и «интеллект», и их применение в научной литературе. Рассматриваются основные проблемы и ключевые этапы развития теории«искусственного интеллекта». Определяются главные направления исследований и теоретических разработок в сфере образования.

The article analyzes the concepts of "thinking" and "intelligence", and their application in the scientific literature. The main problems and key stages of the development of the theory of "artificial intelligence" are considered. The main directions of research and theoretical developments in the field of education are determined.
POSSIBILITIES OF USING «JALINGA STUDIO» IN A FOREIGN LANGUAGE LESSON
Authors: Жаркова Т.И. , Скачкова Е.А.
Published: May 2023

В статье рассмотрены проблемы образования, а также дистанционного обучения студентов неязыкового вуза иностранному языку в период пандемии; приведены определения таких понятий как «глобализация», «иноязычное образование», «дистанционное обучение», данные в «Тематическом словаре методических терминов по иностранному языку» Т.И. Жарковой, Г.В. Сороковых; представлена организация работы преподавателя в видеостудии«Jalinga» и представлены возможности ее использования в обучении иностранным языкам в период коронавирусной инфекции.

The article deals with the problems of education, as well as distance learning of students of a non-linguistic university in a foreign language during a pandemic; the definitions of such concepts as «globalization», «foreign language education», «distance learning», data in the «Thematic Dictionary of Methodological Terms in a Foreign Language» by T.I. Zharkova, G.V. Sorokovych; the organization of the work of a teacher in the video studio «Jalinga» is presented and the possibilities of its use in teaching foreign languages during the period of coronavirus infection are presented.