bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
An approach to create soft X-ray virtual arrays in tomography reconstruction considering non-rigid rotation of the plasma column in the tokamak
Authors: AHMADI Mona , KHORSHID Pejman , SARI AmirHossein , IZADIAN Jalaledin 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

A method was proposed to create Soft X-ray virtual arrays in tomography to study the rigid versus non-rigid rotation of the plasma column in a tokamak. The coordinate reference of the tokamak was transformed into the rotating plasma frame to generate virtual arrays. Data from physical arrays at time t2 were replaced by virtual arrays at time t1 to compare physical and virtual tomography images, thereby investigating the nature of the rotations. Three physical arrays were selected on both the low and high toroidal magnetic field sides and replaced by virtual arrays at time t2. The optimized angle was calculated by minimizing the differences between the tomography images and the reference image for each virtual array. A function based on the toroidal magnetic field profile was defined to determine the position of the virtual arrays. Results indicated differing rotation angles during the virtualization process due to the non-rigid rotation of the plasma column. The position angles for each island varied from the reference island during tomography reconstruction, both when adding and replacing virtual arrays. These differences were smaller under the assumptions of non-rigid rotation, enhancing the accuracy and validity of the tomography reconstruction.
Role of environmental self-regulation, innovation and export on manufacturing SME survival in Vietnam
Authors: Tran-Nam Quoc , Tiet Tuyen 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

In this study, we examine the impact of the pair synergies between environmental compliance, innovation, and export activities on the survivability of Vietnamese firms. Our findings prove that the complementary relationship between environmental self-regulation (ESR) and export activities can help improve firms' survival. Meanwhile, the synergy between environmental compliance and product innovation is substituted in enhancing the chance of survival. Moreover, combining environmental self-regulation and export activities could help ESR firms increase their survivability since engagement in the domestic/local environmental standards could significantly increase the chances for local firms to enter the export markets.
JEL Classification: D24; O3; Q55.
Equitable Funding Pre- and Post-IIJA in the RAISE Program: A Cognitive Time Series Analysis
Authors: Shaheen Qadri H , Cui Qingbin 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Since the enactment of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), also known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), in 2021, there has been a notable shift in the distribution of federal funding between rural and urban areas through the RAISE grants (formerly known as TIGER grants). An analysis of grant allocations from 2009 to 2024 reveals an evolving trend in equity considerations within funding decisions. Until 2017, urban areas consistently received the majority of funding; however, there was a significant increase in rural allocations thereafter. This shift reflects a growing emphasis on addressing the infrastructure needs of historically underserved rural communities, a critical equity concerns in national transportation policy. The IIJA authorizes $1.2 trillion for transportation and infrastructure spending, with $550 billion allocated to “new” investments and programs. Notably, rural and urban areas achieved equal shares of funding allocations (50%) for the first time, marking a pivotal moment in federal infrastructure funding equity.
This research employs a financial and equity-oriented framework to evaluate the longitudinal trends of RAISE funding allocations. With rural areas receiving over 53% of allocations annually since the IIJA's implementation, the study explores the financial implications of this shift including the distribution of benefits, burdens, and opportunities for rural communities.
The findings demonstrate a significant transformation in funding distribution following the IIJA and a marked departure from pre-IIJA patterns. The paper offers actionable recommendations for future infrastructure investments aimed at enhancing both financial sustainability and equitable outcomes. Policymakers must balance infrastructure development with equity considerations, ensuring that disadvantaged communities receive their fair share of benefits.
Efficacy of Small-Diameter Core Decompression with Platelet-Rich Plasma in Early Osteonecrosis of the Femoral Head: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Tang Haiwei , Lai YaHao , Zhao Enze , Zhou Kai , Chen Gang , Zhou Zongke 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
Osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) is a challenging condition, primarily affecting young and middle-aged individuals, which results in hip dysfunction and, ultimately, femoral head collapse. However, the comparative effectiveness of joint-preserving procedures, particularly in the early stages of ONFH, remains inconclusive. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of a novel technique called small-diameter core decompression (CD) combined with platelet-rich plasma (PRP), for the treatment of early-stage ONFH.
Methods
Clinical data of 40 patients (51 hips) with pre-collapse stage ONFH were retrospectively analyzed. Nineteen patients (23 hips) underwent small-diameter CD (group A) and 21 patients (28 hips) received conventional CD (group B) and follow-up was conducted every 3 months. Hip radiographs (X-rays and MRI) were evaluated using various ONFH staging systems (Preserved Angles, ARCO, JIC, and CHFJ stages). X-rays were performed at each follow-up to assess femoral head collapse and the rate of total hip arthroplasty (THA). Additionally, the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Harris Hip Score (HHS), Charnley score, SF-36, Athens Insomnia Scale (AIS), and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) were used to evaluate hip pain, function, quality of life, and psychological status. These assessments were conducted both preoperatively and at each follow-up visit.
Results
The mean follow-up duration in Group CD + PRP was 11.57 months, with a femoral head survivorship of 82.61%. One hip underwent THA 14 months after the novel procedure. In Group CD, with an average follow-up period of 11.32 months, femoral head survivorship was 60.71% (p = 0.111), and 2 hips required THA (p = 0.999). At the final follow-up, the VAS, stiffness, HHS and Charnley scores of the PRP group showed significant improvements compared to those of the CD group. Quality of life, anxiety and insomnia were also significantly improved in the PRP group compared to CD group.
Conclusion
The application of PRP following CD results in significant pain relief, improved short-term functional outcomes, and enhanced quality of life compared to CD alone. However, whether it hinders disease progression in early ONFH and reduces the conversion rate to THA and femoral head collapse remains uncertain. Further research with larger sample sizes and extended follow-up is needed to validate these preliminary findings.
Coronavirus Disease 2019 Rebound in Nirmatrelvir Plus Ritonavir Treatment and Control Groups: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Kueper Jacqueline , Kottilil Kalyani , Quer Giorgio , Chiang Danielle , Spencer Emily , Purushotham Jyothi , Ramos Edward , Roumani Leila , Andersen Kristian , Topol Eric , Pandit Jay , Mina Michael 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Observation of COVID-19 rebound after Nirmatrelvir Plus Ritonavir (NPR) has driven important questions surrounding one of the only direct acting antiviral treatments for COVID-19.
This prospective cohort study to investigate rebound incidence enrolled 917 COVID-19 positive outpatients via a digital proctored test-to-treat solution. Among 669 included in evaluation 493 intended to take NPR and 176 did not. Participants were provided frequent proctored COVID-19 tests and symptom surveys for 15 days. Time to initial viral or symptom clearance was not different between groups. Overall, 15-day viral rebound was three-fold higher in the NPR group (15.2% vs 5.4%, p <0.001) and symptom rebound was double (16.4% vs 8.4%, p <0.01). Among those experiencing initial symptom resolution, rebound after resolution was notably higher in the NPR group (43.8% vs 17.5%). This study demonstrates that while COVID-19 rebound occurs in both NPR treated and untreated outpatients, the incidence is higher in the NPR group.
A Statistical Modeling Approach to Assessing the Determinants of FinTech Innovation and Its Impact on Financial Development in Hong Kong
Authors: Ukonu Glory 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

This study examines the impact of FinTech innovation on financial development in Hong Kong through a quantitative analysis of key economic indicators. Using electronic transactions as a proxy for FinTech adoption, we analyze the relationships between financial development and variables including inflation, broad money (M2) as a percentage of GDP, GDP growth rate, foreign investment, and population growth. Data from the World Bank's development indicators provide the basis for statistical modeling, revealing that electronic transactions positively correlate with economic expansion, while inflation appears to hinder FinTech adoption and growth. Our findings suggest that higher foreign investment levels and GDP growth are positively associated with the advancement of FinTech, contributing to a more robust financial sector. Population growth also emerges as a significant driver, supporting the notion that demographic factors influence FinTech adoption. These insights underscore the potential of FinTech to transform financial services in Hong Kong, offering policy implications for enhancing the digital financial landscape. Future research should explore comparative analyses across regions to validate these findings and understand broader trends.
Precision Prediction of Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy Efficacy in Breast Cancer: Integrating Multimodal Imaging and Clinical Features
Authors: Chen Xianglong , Yong Luo , Xie Zhiming , Wen Yun , Mou Fangsheng , Zhen Wenbing 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Objectives To assess the predictive value of combining DCE-MRI, DKI, IVIM parameters, and clinical characteristics for neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) efficacy in invasive ductal carcinoma.
Methods We conducted a retrospective study of 77 patients with invasive ductal carcinoma, analyzing MRI data collected before NAC. Parameters extracted included DCE-MRI (Ktrans, Kep, Ve, wash-in, wash-out, TTP, iAUC), DKI (MK, MD), and IVIM (D, D*, f). Differences between NAC responders and non-responders were assessed using t-tests or Mann-Whitney U tests. ROC curves and Spearman correlation analyses evaluated predictive accuracy.
Results NAC responders had higher DCE-Kep, DKI-MD, IVIM-D, and IVIM-f values. Non-responders had higher DCE-Ve, DKI-MK, IVIM-D (kurtosis, skewness, entropy), and IVIM-f (entropy). The mean DKI-MK had the highest AUC (0.724), and IVIM-D interquartile range showed the highest sensitivity (94.12%). Combined parameters had the highest AUC (0.969), sensitivity (94.12%), and specificity (90.70%). HER2 status and lesion margins were independent predictors of poor response.
Conclusions Combining DCE-MRI, DKI, and IVIM parameters effectively predicts NAC efficacy, providing valuable preoperative assessment insights.
Spatial interaction mapping of PD-1/PD-L1 in Head and Neck Cancer reveals the role of Macrophage-Tumour Barriers associated with immunotherapy response
Authors: Naei Vahid Yaghoubi , Tubelleza Rafael , Monkman James , Sadeghirad Habib , Donovan Meg L , Blick Tony , Wicher Agata , Bodbin Sara , Stad Robert , Cooper Caroline , Barnett Catherine , O'Byrne Ken , Ladwa Rahul , Warkiani Majid Ebrahimi , Hughes Brett GM , Kulasinghe Arutha 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
Mucosal head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is often diagnosed at an advanced stage, where the prognosis is poor due to the high rates of recurrence and metastasis [1]. With approximately one million new cases projected in 2024, worldwide mortality of HNSCC is estimated to reach 50% of detected cases the same year [2]. Patients with early-stage tumours showed a 50–60% five-year survival rate in the US. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have shown promising results in prolonging survival in a subset of patients with recurrent or metastatic disease. However, challenges remain, particularly the limited efficacy of PD-1/PD-L1 blockade therapies. PD-L1 protein expression has been shown to be limited in its predictive power for ICI therapies. Emerging evidence shows that intricate characterisation of the tumour microenvironment (TME) is fundamental to understand interacting cells.
Methods
In this study, we sought to apply a more nuanced approach to understanding cellular interactions by mapping PD-1/PD-L1 interactions across whole-slide HNSCC tissue samples collected prior to ICI therapy. We used a combination of spatial proteomics (Akoya Biosciences) and an in situ proximity ligation assay (isPLA, Navinci Diagnostics) to visualise PD-1/PD-L1 interactions across cell types and cellular neighbourhoods within the tumour TME.
Results
Our findings indicate the existence of isPLA+ PD-1/PD-L1 interactions between macrophages/CD3 T cell-enriched neighbourhoods and tumour cells at the tumour-stroma boundaries in ICI-resistant tumours. The presence of these dense macrophage-tumour layers, which are either absent or dispersed in responders, indicates a barrier that may restrict immune cell infiltration and promote immune escape mechanisms. In contrast, responders had abundant B and T cell aggregates, predominantly around the tumour edges linked to enhanced immune responses to ICI therapy and better clinical outcomes.
Conclusion
This study highlights the utility of isPLA in detecting distinct tumour-immune interactions within the TME, offering new cellular interaction metrics for stratifying and optimising immunotherapy strategies.
Waste stabilization pond modelling using extreme gradient boosting machines
Authors: Ogarekpe Nkpa M. , Agunwamba Jonah C. , Tenebe Imokhai T. , Udodi Obianuju A. , Chinedu Ani D. 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACT
The integrated solar and hydraulic jump-enhanced waste stabilization pond (ISHJEWSP) has been proposed as a solution to enhance performance of the conventional WSP. Despite the better performance of the ISHJEWSP, there is seemingly no previous study that has deployed machine learning (ML) methods in modelling the ISHJEWSP. This study is aimed at determining the relationships between the ISHJEWSP effluent parameters as well as comparing the performance of extra trees (ET), random forest (RF), decision tree (DT), light gradient boosting machine (LightGBM), gradient boosting (GB), and extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost) methods in predicting the effluent biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5) in the ISHJEWSP. The feature importance technique indicated that the most important parameters were pH, temperature, solar radiation, dissolved oxygen (DO), and total suspended solids. These selected features yielded strong correlations with the dependent variable except DO, which had a moderate correlation. With respect to coefficient of determination and root mean square error (RMSE), the XGBoost performed better than the other models [coefficient of determination (R2) = 0.807, mean absolute error (MAE) = 4.3453, RMSE = 6.2934, root mean squared logarithmic error (RMSLE) = 0.1096]. Gradient boosting, XGBoost, and RF correspondingly yielded the least MAE, RMSE, and RMSLE of 3.9044, 6.2934, and 0.1059, respectively. The study demonstrates effectiveness of ML in predicting the effluent BOD5 in the ISHJEWSP.
Factors That Affect the Quality of Life of Mothers Caring for Children With Medical Needs at Home: Cross-Sectional Questionnaire Study
Authors: Nakamura Kanako , Hamada Yuko , Fujita Ayaka , Morokuma Seiichi 
Published: November 2024

Background
The number of children requiring daily medical care is on the rise, with many being cared for at home. This situation places a significant burden on mothers, who often serve as the primary caregivers.

Objective
This study aimed to clarify the factors that affect the quality of life of mothers with children who require home health care.

Methods
A questionnaire study was conducted among mothers of children needing medical care at home, with 46 participants responding. The questionnaire included items regarding the child’s condition, the mother’s situation, and the World Health Organization Quality of Life-26scale.

Results
Factors influencing the quality of life of mothers included whether the child attended daycare or school (β=.274; P=.04), the duration of home care (β=.305; P=.02), and the presence or absence of position changes (β=–.410; P=.003). The presence or absence of position changes had the most significant impact (adjusted R2=.327).

Conclusions
The most significant factor affecting the quality of life of mothers of children requiring home medical care is the presence or absence of positional changes.
Fast spread of Corythucha arcuata (Say, 1832) (Hemiptera: Tingidae) in Slovakia during the period 2020–2022
Authors: Zúbrik Milan , Barta Marek , Nikolov Christo , Rell Slavomír , Kunca Andrej , Gubka Andrej , Vakula Jozef , Galko Juraj , Leontovyč Roman , Lalík Michal , Kulfan Jan 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
This research examines the rapid spread of the oak lace bug, Corythucha arcuata (Say, 1832), in Slovakia from 2020 to 2022. A native of the Nearctic region, this pest was first detected in Europe back in 2000 and has since extended across considerable part of the continent. Monitoring efforts revealed its presence in Slovakia in 2018, with subsequent surveys showing its distribution through the southern region and a northward expansion. The pest mainly infests oak trees, and in 2022, it was seen there on as many as 87% of the plots. Out of a total of 233 locations visited in the period 2020–2022, the bug was found on 169 sites, which represents 72.5%. The study identified the pedunculate and Turkey oak as primary host-plants. The results provided a clear trend from the bugs moving further north with each passing year, covering an estimated total distance of 84.5 km over the three-year timeframe. Factors influencing its spread included passive transport via vehicles and possible wind-assisted dispersal on a local scale. The study also highlights the need for continuous monitoring and management strategies to mitigate its impact on oak ecosystems.
Two unprecedented outbreaks of the European spruce bark beetle, Ips typographus L. (Col., Scolytinae) in Austria since 2015: Different causes and different impacts on forests
Authors: Hallas Till , Steyrer Gottfried , Laaha Gregor , Hoch Gernot 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Austria has been facing two outbreaks of the European spruce bark beetle, Ips typographus L., in the last ten years. In this study, we compile data of damage caused by I. typographus L. as well as storm and snow breakage from 2002 to 2022 in two regions affected by these bark beetle outbreaks based on the Documentation of Forest Damaging Factors in Austria and analyze them in context of climatic factors. The first outbreak started in 2015 and affected Norway spruce forests at low elevation (< 600 m) in the north of Austria. Annual damage peaked in 2018 at 3.3 million m3 (representing 2.6% of total growing stock in the area). The second outbreak started in 2021 and affected mountainous spruce forests in the south of Austria. In this case extensive damage by storm in 2018 and snow breakage in the two following winters preceded the bark beetle outbreak. Annual damage by I. typographus L. reached 1.7 million m3 (2.4% of growing stock) in 2022. Most forests are located on steep mountain slopes and have important protective function against natural hazards. High temperatures allowed completion of two generations up to 1,400 m elevation. Linear regression models showed that damage by I. typographus L. was significantly affected by climatic water balance. This effect was stronger in the north than in the south. We discuss the different patterns of the outbreaks and challenges for bark beetle management in the context of climate change.
Wildlife damage to forest stands in the context of climate change – a review of current knowledge in the Czech Republic
Authors: Brabec Pavel , Cukor Jan , Vacek Zdeněk , Vacek Stanislav , Skoták Vlastimil , Ševčík Richard , Fuchs Zdeněk 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Wildlife damage to forests has become an increasingly serious problem in recent years, and its impact is exacerbated by ongoing climate change. Rising temperatures, prolonged droughts, uneven precipitation distribution, and other factors affect forest ecosystems, which, in turn, affect cloven-hoofed animal populations, their food preferences, and ultimately, the extent of damage they cause. Based on 133 references, this review article focuses on the relationships between wildlife damage and climate change and presents possible strategies to address this issue in the Czech Republic. Wildlife damage includes not just browsing and fraying in natural and artificial regeneration but also damage to trees from bark stripping and the lesser-known rooting of seedlings. Concerning tree species, browsing is most damaging to silver fir (Abies alba Mill.) and sycamore maple (Acer pseudoplatanus L.). The enticement to wildlife increases as the proportion of the tree species in the stand decreases. Browse damage is more severe at the edge of the stand. Bark stripping and secondary rot cause the most damage to the production quality of Norway spruce (Picea abies [L.] Karst.). Total wildlife damage increases with elevation. Combined with the progress of climate change, game-induced damage significantly restricts close-to-nature forest management practices and limits the use of adaptive measures in response to climate change. In addition, mixed forests with species that attract wildlife and the rapid increase in the number of clearings following bark beetle salvage logging significantly increase game pressure. This is primarily the result of the overpopulation of native and introduced game species and the considerable inconsistency between forest and hunting management practices, with the latter not respecting the principle of ecologically tolerable game damage.
Does bark beetle Ips typographus (L.) die after flying away from the poisoned trap tree?
Authors: Kula Emanuel , Hrdlička Petr , Zvoníček Karel 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Ips typographus (L.) is the most significant insect pest in the European spruce forests. Methods of control and monitoring are in the period of Ips typographus (L.) outbreaks supplemented with suppressive procedures applying insecticides. The aim of our study was to determine the necessary length of Ips typographus (L.) imagoes movement across the treated surface, resulting in their death also in the case of their flying away from the trap tree. Insecticides Forester (active substance cypermethrin) and Dinastia (active substance deltamethrin) were tested in laboratory conditions. Exposure times the beetles moved on the intoxicated bark were 30–300 s. Then the beetles were placed in Petri dishes and their survival rate up to twenty-four hours was established. Experiment duration was 8 weeks from spraying with repeated week control tests. High efficiency of tested pyrethroids ensuring the death of also flying away imagoes within six hours after contamination was established at three weeks. The rate of their survival was increasing from Week 4 independently on the exposure times (deltamethrin). In cypermethrin, the survival rate of imagoes was high and dependent on the exposure times. The efficiency of deltamethrin was higher than that of cypermethrin. During the outbreaks, the pheromone-baited poisoned trap trees causing the death also to flying away imagoes of Ips typographus (L.) have to be sprayed with the above-mentioned pyrethroids in a monthly interval at the time of swarming culmination. The efficiency of both insecticides decreased more rapidly on the upper unprotected side of the trap tree.