bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Identification and amplification of candidate genes for virus defence in common ash (Fraxinus excelsior L.)
Authors: Köbölkuti Z. A. , Rehanek M. , von Bargen S. , Büttner C. , Fussi B. 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Across various European countries, Fraxinus excelsior L. is facing a decline caused by Hymenoscyphus fraxineus. The underlying mechanisms of the disease are still insufficiently understood in detail. Observations suggest that, in addition to the main pathogen, viral infections may also contribute to the decline of ash trees. We described homologues in the F. excelsior genome of formerly annotated virus resistance genes in model species and tested the applicability of primers on these gene fragments. Further, a prediction of cis-acting regulatory elements and transcription factor binding sites was accomplished, to determine the exact location of the promoters of these genes in the ash genome. After annotation and filtering the low-complexity regions, primers for use with genomic DNA were designed on sequences that showed a high degree of similarity and equality in length to translated regions and promoters of these regions. From the newly designed primers, those with the most favourable primer selection parameters were selected and tested on eight virus infected—four symptomatic and four asymptomatic—samples. The amplified products were analysed by agarose gel electrophoresis. From all producing one-band amplicons, 36 primer pairs amplifying translated, and 36 primers amplifying promoter regions were selected. Our study is the first step of a SNP discovery and marker development test. The further marker development on these sequences could be useful for the selection of ash individuals with various resistance to viral infections, providing a route for a more thorough understanding of the ash dieback–virus resistance interaction.
A Multidecadal Assessment of Haze Development and Fluctuations in Visibility for Arabian Peninsula
Authors: Atique Luqman , Javed Sadaf , Shahzad Muhammad Imran , Tutsak Ersin , Mahfouz Mohamed M. K. , Wang Jun , Shahid Imran 
Published: December 2024

AbstractDeteriorating visibility (VR) is an exacerbating problem in the Arabian Peninsula (AP) under the prevailing natural and anthropogenic causes. The main objective of this paper is to analyze the long-term (1975–2023) trends of visibility fluctuations and development of haze for six countries including Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), Iraq (IRQ), Qatar (QTR), Kuwait (KWT), United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Oman (OMN). To comprehend the time-based patterns of visibility across the ME, we utilized the Mann Kendall (MK) and Modified Mann Kendall (MMK) trend estimators in both space and time. The daily visibility of QTR exhibits significant variations from 1975 to 2023, with the lowest and greatest values representing the dynamic character of visibility in the region. Oman’s daily visibility have revealed complex pattern with frequent occurrence of close to zero visibility starting from 1975. Visibility in KWT was 0.5 km in 1994, indicating a period of exceptionally poor visibility whereas the daily mean visibility for KSA was approximately 0.6 km. The UAE data shows strong seasonal spikes in visibility, with peaks of about 2 km. IRQ air quality was severely misty on days when visibility was approximately 0.4 km. Among the six countries, visibility in KWT is improving at 0.06 km/year, while visibility in IRQ is decreasing rapidly at the rate of -0.26 km/year. Keeping in account the overall trends over the decades to assess current visibility conditions, Visibility in KWT and QTR is improving at the fastest trend of + 0.15 and + 0.05 km/year respectively as compared to OMN, IRQ, UAE and KSA. Policymakers in the region can work on regional environmental policies to further improve the regional atmospheric visibility.
Rotigotine-Induced Leukoderma: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Bondariyan Niloofar , Golsorkhi Mohadese , Dashtipour Khashayar 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Rotigotine is a dopamine receptor agonist commonly prescribed for Parkinson’s disease (PD) and restless leg syndrome. Although some common side effects have been previously reported, the rotigotine-induced leukoderma is a very rare presentation. Herein, we report a 37-year-old female with PD who developed depigmentation patches after 1 year of rotigotine application. Dermatology consultation reported drug-induced leukoderma, and topical steroid, narrow-band ultraviolet B, and ruxolitinib were administered. Her depigmentation spots started to improve while rotigotine was continued. This case highlights the potential for rotigotine to induce skin depigmentation and emphasizes the need for continued observation and reporting of such adverse effects.
Evaluating Testing and Use of Photometric Stereo Applications for Riblet Inspection
Authors: Wotawa Franz , Jahaj Ledio , Brosch Nicole 
Published: December 2024

AbstractComputer vision is vital for various applications like object tracking for autonomous driving or quality assurance. Hence, assuring that computer vision fulfills given quality criteria is essential and requires sufficient testing. In previous work, authors introduced a testing method relying on image modifications for a photometric stereo application. Image modifications include pixel errors or the rotation of images to be analyzed, revealing a substantial impact on the computed outcome of the photometric stereo application, depending on the applied modification. This paper focuses on two questions, i.e., (i) whether we can reproduce the impact of image modifications in a real-world setup and (ii) on the practicability of the application of photometric stereo in the application context of quality assurance of riblet surfaces. To answer the first question, we compare the impact of the rotation and light conditions of the analyzed sample with the rotation and light modification applied to the image of the sample. The comparison indicates a similar effect when using rotation and light modifications, showing that testing based on image modifications is valuable for verifying computer vision applications. For the second question, we outline a usage scenario, present experimental observations, and discuss a stochastical model, allowing us to confirm the experiments. Moreover, we outline what to expect when using the computer vision application for real quality assurance.
Measuring Progress in Packaging Waste Prevention: Trends and Gaps in Communicated Indicators from National Policy and the Food Retail Sector
Authors: Otto Sarah Julie , Schinkel Jennifer , Rotter Vera Susanne 
Published: December 2024

AbstractEffective packaging waste prevention requires appropriate indicators to monitor progress and design measures. This paper addresses the lack of research and standardization of packaging waste prevention indicators at the national and company levels. A two-part methodology is employed. First, a framework for inventorying indicators is established; then, the framework is applied to national waste prevention programs of European Environment Agency member and cooperating countries, as well as to published reports and communications of the German food retail sector. The analysis reveals that 23 out of 30 countries and 17 out of 32 companies use and communicate packaging waste prevention indicators. However, there are gaps in indicators addressing qualitative prevention as well as regulatory and economic instruments at the national level. At the company level, recycled content and the reduction of packaging are specifically addressed. The term “reduction” may involve various approaches, including replacing materials such as plastic with alternatives or simply reducing usage. Specific monitoring of secondary and transport packaging is lacking in both sectors. In terms of plastics, indicators lack consistency and clarity, potentially facilitating greenwashing at the corporate level. Monitoring and reporting practices vary, and few indicators have specific targets and monitoring schemes. Recommendations for improvement include establishing a common understanding of waste prevention, adopting a holistic approach to monitoring various packaging materials, enhancing indicator measurability, and harmonizing indicators through categorization and inventory frameworks. These improvements are crucial for effectively monitoring and addressing packaging waste prevention at both the national and industry levels.
Integrating variable importance and spatial heterogeneity to reveal the environmental effects on outdoor jogging
Authors: ZHANG Chengbo , SHI Dongbo , XIAO Zuopeng 
Published: December 2024

AbstractOutdoor jogging is increasingly recognized as a crucial component of urban active transport strategies aimed at improving public health. Despite growing research on the influence of both natural and built environmental factors on outdoor jogging, less is known about the relative importance of these factors. Moreover, the spatial heterogeneity effects of environmental factors remain unclear. Failing to consider these varying effects regarding impact intensity and spatial scale results in inefficient planning policies aimed at promoting active transport. This study addresses these gaps by analyzing crowdsourced jogging trajectory data in Shenzhen using a computational framework that combines Random Forest Variable Importance (RF-VI) and Multi-Scale Geographically Weighted Regression (MGWR). The analysis identifies hierarchical environmental effects and the varying impacts of twelve key determinants across different spatial scales. Results reveal that natural environmental factors are most contributing to outdoor jogging, while density-related built environment factors contribute the least. Additionally, environmental effects vary in scale, direction, and intensity, with seven variables exerting global impacts and five showing localized effects. Notably, the central and suburban areas of Shenzhen display considerable spatial heterogeneity in environmental influences. The findings inform the importance of integrating green infrastructure, mitigating over-dense urban development, and enhancing pedestrian-accessible road networks to promote outdoor jogging. These insights advocate for context-sensitive urban planning that balances natural and built environments to to foster healthier mobility.
Study on the impact of vehicle-induced vibration on the flexural behavior of UHPC joints in widened bridges
Authors: Yang Jun , Leng Jingchen , Zhou Jianting , Chen Rui , Yu Kun , Jiang Zhimei , Zou Yang , Zhang Zhongya , Du Jiang 
Published: December 2024

AbstractBridge widening involves phased construction of adjacent structures to maintain uninterrupted traffic flow. This process exposes freshly placed longitudinal joints between staged deck constructions to vehicle-induced vibrations, potentially compromising their mechanical integrity. This study investigates the flexural behavior of ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) longitudinal joints under such vibrations through model tests. To simulate actual site conditions, we developed a novel vibration test setup that replicates the dynamic environment experienced by these joints during construction. Micro- and meso-scale tests were conducted to examine the flexural behavior of longitudinal joints following vibration exposure. Results revealed that vibration amplitude significantly influences fiber orientation and flexural strength of ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) wet joint specimens. Low-amplitude vibrations (3 Hz at 1 mm and 3 mm) enhanced fiber orientation, increasing flexural strength by 11.5% to 19.8% and ultimate load capacity by 17% compared to non-vibrated specimens. Conversely, high-amplitude vibrations (3 Hz at 5 mm) adversely affected fiber orientation, decreasing flexural strength by 23.9% and ultimate load capacity by 19% relative to non-vibrated specimens.
A multi-layer Kriging surrogate model for the reliability analysis of variable stator vanes in aero engines
Authors: Fan J. , Xu H. , Meng Q. , Xu S. 
Published: December 2024

AbstractThe variable stator vanes (VSV) are a set of typical spatial linkage mechanisms widely used in the variable cycle engine compressor. Various factors influence the angle adjustment precision of the VSV, leading to the failure of the mechanism. The reliability analysis of VSV is a complex task due to the involvement of multiple components, high dimensionality input and computational inefficiency. Considering the hierarchical characteristics of VSV structure, we propose a novel multi-layer Kriging surrogate (MLKG) for the reliability analysis of VSV. The MLKG combines multiple Kriging surrogate models arranged in a hierarchical structure. By breaking the problem down into more minor problems, MLKG works by presenting each small problem as a Kriging model and reducing the input dimension of the sub-layer Kriging model. In this way, the MLKG can capture the complex interactions between the inputs and outputs of the problem while maintaining a high degree of accuracy and efficiency. This study proves the error propagation process of MLKG. To evaluate MLKG’s accuracy, we test it on two typical high-dimensional non-linearity functions (Rosenbrock and Michalewicz function). We compared MLKG with some contemporary KG surrogate modeling techniques using mean squared error (MSE) and R square (
${R^2}$
). Results show that MLKG achieves an excellent level of accuracy for reliability analysis in high-dimensional problems with a small number of sample points.
Reasoning about physical processes in buildings through component stereotypes
Authors: Ramanathan Ganesh , Mayer Simon 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Buildings employ an ensemble of technical systems like those for heating and ventilation. Ontologies such as Brick, IFC, SSN/SOSA, and SAREF have been created to describe such technical systems in a machine-understandable manner. However, these focus on describing system topology, whereas several relevant use cases (e.g., automated fault detection and diagnostics (AFDD)) also need knowledge about the physical processes. While mathematical simulation can be used to model physical processes, these are practically expensive to run and are not integrated with mainstream technical systems ontologies today. We propose to describe the effect of component actuation on underlying physical mechanisms within component stereotypes. These stereotypes are linked to actual component instances in the technical system description, thereby accomplishing an integration of knowledge about system structure and physical processes. We contribute an ontology for such stereotypes and show that it covers 100% of Brick heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) components. We further show that the ontology enables automatically inferring relationships between components in a real-world building in most cases, except in two situations where component dependencies are underreported. This is due to missing component models for passive parts like splits and join in ducts, and hence points at concrete future extensions of the Brick ontology. Finally, we demonstrate how AFDD applications can utilize the resulting knowledge graph to find expected consequences of an action, or conversely, to identify components that may be responsible for an observed state of the process.
Reliability and Validity of the Persian Version of the Disaster Resilience Measuring Tool for Health care Rescuers in Iran
Authors: Shabany Maryam , Azizi Maryam , Salajegheh Zahra , Pruitt Sheri D. , Imanipour Mohammad 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Objectives
This study evaluated the validity and reliability of the Persian version of the Disaster Resilience Measuring Tool (DRMT-C19).

Methods
The research was a methodological, psychometric study. Standard translation processes were performed. Face validity and content validity were determined along with construct and convergent validity. To determine the final version of the questionnaire, 483 health care rescuers were selected using a consecutive sampling method. Other resilience-related questionnaires were used to assess concurrent validity. All quantitative data analyses were conducted using SPSS 22 and Jamovi 2.3.28 software.

Results
The content validity and reliability were indicated using Scale’s Content Validity Ratio (S-CVR) = 0.92 and Scale’s Content Validity Index (S-CVI) = 0.93. The comprehensiveness of the measurement tool = 0.875%. Cronbach’s α = 0.89 and the test re-test reliability using interclass correlation coefficients (ICC) = 0.68 to 0.92. Exploratory factor analysis determined 4 factors which accounted for more than 58.54% of the variance among the items. Confirmatory factor analysis determined 12 factors. The concurrent validity between the DRMT-C19 and the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC) was r = 0.604 (P ≤ 0.0001).

Conclusions
The DRMT-C19 has satisfactory psychometric properties and is a valid, reliable, and valuable tool for assessing resilience against disasters in Iran’s Persian-speaking health care rescuers.
Supporting early robust design for different levels of specific design knowledge: an adaptive method for modeling with the Embodiment Function Relation and Tolerance model
Authors: Li Jiahang , Horber Dennis , Grauberger Patric , Goetz Stefan , Wartzack Sandro , Matthiesen Sven 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Early robust design (RD) can lead to significant cost savings in the later stages of product development. In order to design systems that are insensitive to various sources of deviation in the early stages, specific design knowledge (SDK) plays a crucial role. Different design situations result in higher or lower levels of derivable SDK, which leads to different activities to achieve the development goal. Due to the variety of design situations, it is difficult for design engineers to choose a more robust concept to avoid the costly iterations that occur in the later development stages. Existing RD methods often do not adequately support these differences in design situations. To address the problem, this paper outlines an adaptive modeling method using the Embodiment Function Relation and Tolerance model. The method is developed in two contrasting design situations, each with a high and low level of derivable SDK, and evaluated in another two corresponding case studies. It has a consistent structure with five stages and gates. At each stage, the derivable SDK is taken into account and the individual modeling steps are adapted. This method provides design engineers with concrete support for early robustness evaluation of a product concept in different development scenarios.
A scoping review on peer-led interventions to improve youth mental health in low- and middle-income countries
Authors: Chow Dana , Matungwa Dunstan J. , Blackwood Elizabeth R. , Pronyk Paul , Dow Dorothy 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Youth living in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) have an increased vulnerability to mental illnesses, with many lacking access to adequate treatment. There has been a growing body of interventions using task sharing with trained peer leaders to address this mental health gap. This scoping review examines the characteristics, effectiveness, components of peer delivery and challenges of peer-led mental health interventions for youth aged 10–24 in LMICs. A key term search strategy was employed across MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, Global Health and Global Index Medicus. Eligibility criteria included young people aged 10–24 and a peer-led component delivered in any setting in an LMIC. Study selection and extraction were conducted independently by the first and second authors, with discrepancies resolved by the senior author. Study characteristics were summarised and presented descriptively. The search identified 5,358 citations, and 19 studies were included. There were 14 quantitative, four qualitative and one mixed methods study reporting mental health outcomes. Types of interventions were heterogenous but fell within three broad categories: (1) peer education and psychoeducation, (2) peer-led psychotherapy and counselling and (3) peer support. All studies reported improved mental health outcomes as a result of the peer-led interventions. Peer-led interventions are versatile in terms of both the types of interventions and mode of delivery. Lived experience, mutual respect and reduced stigma make this method a highly unique and effective way to engage this age group. However, implementing peer-led youth interventions is not without challenges. Adequate training, supervision, cultural appropriateness and support from established institutions are critical to safeguarding and ensuring the sustainability of such programs. Our findings suggest that peer-led models are a valuable intervention strategy that policymakers can leverage in current and future efforts to address youth mental health in LMICs. Future areas of research should expand to include the perspectives of other key stakeholders involved in the implementation of peer-led mental health interventions, focusing on factors including fidelity, feasibility and acceptability to enhance implementation insights.
High-energy, high-peak-power, sub-nanosecond, spatial super-Gaussian 177 nm vacuum ultraviolet laser
Authors: Wen Ning , Lv Tian-Hao , Zong Nan , Gao Hong-Wei , Bo Yong , Peng Qin-Jun , Cui Da-Fu , Xu Zu-Yan , Wang Xiao-Yang , Liu Li-Juan , Li Ru-Kang , Wang Nan , Lin Xue-Chun 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
A high-energy pulsed vacuum ultraviolet (VUV) solid-state laser at 177 nm with high peak power by the sixth harmonic of a neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) amplifier in a KBe2BO3F2 prism-coupled device was demonstrated. The ultraviolet (UV) pump laser is a 352 ps pulsed, spatial top-hat super-Gaussian beam at 355 nm. A high energy of a 7.12 mJ VUV laser at 177 nm is obtained with a pulse width of 255 ps, indicating a peak power of 28 MW, and the conversion efficiency is 9.42% from 355 to 177 nm. The measured results fitted well with the theoretical prediction. It is the highest pulse energy and highest peak power ever reported in the VUV range for any solid-state lasers. The high-energy, high-peak-power, and high-spatial-uniformity VUV laser is of great interest for ultra-fine machining and particle-size measurements using UV in-line Fraunhofer holography diagnostics.
Improved method to optimize the phase jump of multiple exposure-tiled gratings
Authors: Ding Xinhui , Yu Hui , Li Dawei , Zhang Junyong , Wang Li , Zhou Qiong , Lu Xingqiang 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Large-aperture gratings have significant applications in inertial confinement fusion, immersion lithography manufacturing and astronomical observation. Currently, it is challenging and expensive to manufacture sizable monolithic gratings. Therefore, tiled multiple small-aperture gratings are preferred. In this study, the impact of seam phase discontinuity on the modulation of the laser beam field was explored based on the measurement results of the Shenguang-II laser large-aperture multi-exposure-tiled grating. An innovative method for accurately calculating the phase jump of multi-exposure-tiled grating seams was proposed. An intensive electromagnetic field analysis was performed by applying rigorous coupled-wave analysis to a reasonably constructed micrometer-level periodic grating seam structure, and the phase jump appearing in millimeter-scale seams of large-aperture tiled gratings was obtained accurately.