bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Federated quantum long short-term memory (FedQLSTM)
Authors: Chehimi Mahdi , Chen Samuel Yen-Chi , Saad Walid , Yoo Shinjae 
Published: July 2024

AbstractQuantum federated learning (QFL) can facilitate collaborative learning across multiple clients using quantum machine learning (QML) models, while preserving data privacy. Although recent advances in QFL span different tasks like classification while leveraging several data types, no prior work has focused on developing a QFL framework that utilizes temporal data to approximate functions useful to analyze the performance of distributed quantum sensing networks. In this paper, a novel QFL framework that is the first to integrate quantum long short-term memory (QLSTM) models with temporal data is proposed. The proposed federated QLSTM (FedQLSTM) framework is exploited for performing the task of function approximation. In this regard, three key use cases are presented: Bessel function approximation, sinusoidal delayed quantum feedback control function approximation, and Struve function approximation. Simulation results confirm that, for all considered use cases, the proposed FedQLSTM framework achieves a faster convergence rate under one local training epoch, minimizing the overall computations, and saving 25–33% of the number of communication rounds needed until convergence compared to an FL framework with classical LSTM models.
Out of school children in the context of new policy trajectories and interlocking crises in Zimbabwe: a transformative social policy perspective
Authors: Chipenda Clement , Cochrane Logan 
Published: July 2024

AbstractIn the past two decades, Zimbabwe has been confronted with a concerning increase in the number of out-of-school children and youth (OOSC). Emerging evidence suggests that nearly a million children fall into this category, representing approximately half of the country’s adolescent population. This phenomenon has significantly impacted on Zimbabwe’s educational landscape and socio-economic fabric. Despite its gravity, research on OOSC remains limited. To address this gap, our study triangulates data from various sources to explore OOSC prevalence, examining geographical disparities and underlying causes. In addition, we investigate the nexus between OOSC and the prevailing socio-economic crises in the country. Our analysis reveals that, despite Zimbabwe’s robust education policies and legislative framework, OOSC prevalence rates remain high. Implementation gaps persist, hindering effective solutions. The challenge of OOSC is seen being intertwined with the multifaceted crises and socio-economic dynamics affecting the nation. Geographical, wealth-based, social, religious, cultural, and economic disparities all contribute to the persistence of OOSC. To combat this challenge, we propose several recommendations rooted in the political economy-oriented concept of transformative social policy. These are crystallised around the need to develop a social contract prioritising the fulfilment of rights, social justice, human capacity, and agency. Emphasis is on the importance of a holistic approach, aligning economic policies with social goals to foster an environment conducive to education. By transforming social institutions and structures, we argue that the scourge of OOSC can be addressed and pave way for a more equitable and inclusive education system.
Comparative assessment of the effect of storage vessels, thatched roof and industrial activity on harvested rainwater quality in south eastern, Nigeria using water quality index
Authors: Nicholas Eno-obong Sunday , Ukoha Pius Onyeoziri , Ihedioha Janefrances Ngozi 
Published: July 2024

AbstractRainwater is usually harvested through catchment systems such as roofs or directly from the sky for storage in different vessels for eventual use due to water scarcity which is as a result of increased in water demand, rapid industrialization, increasing pollution, global warming and climate change. This study was carried out to assess the effects of galvanized iron and PVC tanks, thatched roof and industrial activity on harvested rainwater quality by investigating physico-chemical properties, heavy metals, coliform level and metal composition of the storage vessels. Seven-two harvested rainwater samples were collected from four locations in the urban and rural areas of Delta and Enugu States, Nigeria between the months of April-July, 2018. Rainwater samples stored for 1 month to a year in storage vessels were considered. The results were compared with water quality standards (USEPA, WHO, NAFDAC and NSDWQ) and Water Quality Index ratings. Heavy metals (Pb, Fe, Cr, Zn and Al) were analyzed using Flame-AAS; other parameters were determined using standard methods. The WQI ratings were calculated using the weighted arithmetic method. The results were analysed using descriptive and two-way ANOVA statistical analysis. Results obtained in both areas of the States showed mean values ranging from 5.60 ± 0.28 to 7.60 ± 0.20 for pH, E.coli (0.00 ± 0.00–1.00 ± 0.00 cfu/mL), EC (7.00 ± 1.41–108.70 ± 8.62 µs/cm), colour (0.44 ± 0.01–12.86 ± 0.17 TCU) and heavy metals (mg/L) gave 0.00 ± 0.00–1.52 ± 0.13 for Fe, Pb (0.00 ± 0.00–0.29 ± 0.02), Cr (0.00 ± 0.00–0.30 ± 0.05), Zn (0.00 ± 0.00–0.05 ± 0.02) and Al (0.00 ± 0.00–4.65 ± 2.24). The results of the harvested rainwater samples analyzed showed that, the mean values of all the parameters analyzed were below and within the water quality set standard with the exception of a few in both areas in each of the States and were significantly different at (p < 0.05). The results of WQI ratings showed that, harvested rainwater qualities in both States were rated from excellent to unfit for drinking water quality. Generally, harvested rainwater stored in PVC tanks rated better than rainwater stored in galvanized iron tanks though not free of contamination. The storage duration for harvested rainwater is very important for its water quality, hence, harvested rainwater whether it is stored or not should be subjected to treatment before being use for potable usages.
Factors Contributing to Slab Locations and Geometries in Reconstructions of Past Mantle Flow
Authors: Weber Joshua , Flament Nicolas 
Published: July 2024

AbstractIndividual sinking slabs present markedly different geometries between 410 and 660 km depths, from vertical slabs penetrating the lower mantle to slabs stagnating above the lower mantle. The proposed factors determining these contrasted geometries include mantle viscosity and the magnitude and evolution of trench retreat. Here, we assess the success of paleo‐geographically driven global mantle flow models in matching slabs in tomographic models between 400 km and 1,000 km depth. We quantify the spatial match between predicted present‐day mantle temperature anomalies and vote maps of tomographic models. We investigate the sensitivity of the spatial match to input parameters of the mantle flow model: imposed tectonic reconstruction, model start age, and viscosity contrast between the upper and lower mantle. We evaluate the visual match between model slabs and tomographic vote maps for three circum‐Pacific regions with contrasted slab dip angles between 400 km and 1,000 km depth. Predicted model slabs better match slabs inferred from tomography when there is an increase in viscosity at 660 km depth. The temporal evolution of the models and the global match at present day suggest that the subduction history could be refined in the global tectonic reconstructions that we considered. For example, we suggest that the subduction to the east of Japan should be offset by approximately 100 km to the west at ∼80 Ma to match the anchoring of a continuous slab into the lower mantle suggested by tomography.
Seamless Map of Depth to the Moho Interface in the Afro‐Arabian Region Using Gravity Data Derived From EGM2008
Authors: Lewi Elias 
Published: July 2024

AbstractThe Afro‐Arabian region is one of the few places on land, where rifting processes at divergent plate boundaries can be thoroughly investigated. One of the crucial factors in understanding rifting processes involves assessing the crustal thickness. In this study, gravity data from the Earth Gravitational Model 2008 is used to create a seamless map of the depth to the Moho interface. Unlike many previous investigations that focused on specific localized areas, within the region, results from the current study provide a comprehensive view. The depth obtained from the current investigation aligns well with findings from earlier studies, exhibiting a bias of 0.69 km and a standard deviation of 3.89 km. Within the region, maximum and minimum depths to the Moho interface are observed beneath the northwest Ethiopian Plateau and the Gulf of Aden Rift (GAR), respectively. Analyzing profiles across the Red Sea, Main Ethiopian, and GARs, the study concluded that the Southern Main Ethiopian Rift is in an earlier stage of the rifting process, while the GAR is at an advanced stage. Furthermore, the interpretation of the current findings led to the inference that there might exist two potential plume tails driving the rifting process in the East Africa Rift—one originating from the Afar region and the other from South Kenya. This inference primarily relies on the isostatic compensation stages observed in the various rift systems throughout the region.
Vertical Variations of Photosystem Energy Partitioning in the Canopy of the Subtropical Cropland
Authors: Zhong Duwei , Chi Yonggang , Huang Zhi , Liu Pai , Zhang Guoping , Zhou Lei 
Published: July 2024

AbstractLeaf‐level photosynthetic capacity exhibits vertical variations along the canopy profile. The dynamics of photosystem energy partitioning involved in dissipating absorbed light energy, namely photochemical yield (ΦP), fluorescence yield (ΦF), and the efficiency of non‐photochemical quenching yield (ΦN) in dissipating excess light energy as heat, along the vertical canopy profile remain unclear. Here, vertical variations in photosystem energy partitioning and photosynthetic nitrogen allocation were measured at different canopy positions of rice using active fluorescence detection and photosynthetic gas exchange measurement in subtropical southern China. We observed the decline in leaf nitrogen per leaf mass (Nmass) from the top to the bottom of the canopy. ΦP significantly decreased from vegetative growth stage to ripening stage, while ΦN showed an opposite trend. The top and bottom leaves had consistent relationships between photosynthetic nitrogen allocation and photosystem energy partitioning. Our findings reveal the vertical variations in physiological traits of subtropical rice.
Modeling cellular responses to serum and vitamin D in microgravity using a human kidney microphysiological system
Authors: Lidberg Kevin A. , Jones-Isaac Kendan , Yang Jade , Bain Jacelyn , Wang Lu , MacDonald James W. , Bammler Theo K. , Calamia Justina , Thummel Kenneth E. , Yeung Catherine K. , Countryman Stefanie , Koenig Paul , Himmelfarb Jonathan , Kelly Edward J. 
Published: July 2024

AbstractThe microgravity environment aboard the International Space Station (ISS) provides a unique stressor that can help understand underlying cellular and molecular drivers of pathological changes observed in astronauts with the ultimate goals of developing strategies to enable long- term spaceflight and better treatment of diseases on Earth. We used this unique environment to evaluate the effects of microgravity on kidney proximal tubule epithelial cell (PTEC) response to serum exposure and vitamin D biotransformation capacity. To test if microgravity alters the pathologic response of the proximal tubule to serum exposure, we treated PTECs cultured in a microphysiological system (PT-MPS) with human serum and measured biomarkers of toxicity and inflammation (KIM-1 and IL-6) and conducted global transcriptomics via RNAseq on cells undergoing flight (microgravity) and respective controls (ground). Given the profound bone loss observed in microgravity and PTECs produce the active form of vitamin D, we treated 3D cultured PTECs with 25(OH)D3 (vitamin D) and monitored vitamin D metabolite formation, conducted global transcriptomics via RNAseq, and evaluated transcript expression of CYP27B1, CYP24A1, or CYP3A5 in PTECs undergoing flight (microgravity) and respective ground controls. We demonstrated that microgravity neither altered PTEC metabolism of vitamin D nor did it induce a unique response of PTECs to human serum, suggesting that these fundamental biochemical pathways in the kidney proximal tubule are not significantly altered by short-term exposure to microgravity. Given the prospect of extended spaceflight, more study is needed to determine if these responses are consistent with extended (>6 months) exposure to microgravity.
A dataset of hidden small non-coding RNA in the testis of heat-stressed models revealed by Pandora-seq
Authors: Gan Mailin , Lei Yuhang , Wang Kai , Wang Yan , Liao Tianci , Ma Jianfeng , Zhu Li , Shen Linyuan 
Published: July 2024

AbstractInfertility, a worldwide reproductive health concern, impacts approximately one in five couples. Male infertility, stemming from spermatogenic dysfunction and reduced sperm quality, stands as a primary factor contributing to infertility. Given the global decrease in male fertility linked to environmental factors like the greenhouse effect, it is crucial to develop a comprehensive understanding of how increased temperatures impact both the quantity and quality of sperm. In this study, we utilized Pandora-seq technology to detect the small non-coding RNAs (sncRNAs) expression profile in the testicular tissue of heat-stressed mice. The investigation explores the dynamic shifts in sncRNAs within the mouse testis under heat stress, including miRNAs, tsRNAs, piRNAs, rsRNAs and other sncRNAs. Furthermore, we successfully identified differentially expressed sncRNAs in testicular tissues before and after heat stress. Subsequently, we conducted functional enrichment analysis on the potential predicted target genes of differentially expressed miRNAs and tsRNAs. These datasets will constitute a valuable foundational resource for further investigations into the decline in male reproductive capacity triggered by heat stress.
Design of 3D printing osteotomy block for foot based on triply periodic minimal surface
Authors: Xie Hai-qiong , Xie Hai-tao , Luo Tao , Yang Bai-yin , Gan Dao-qi , Liao Dong-fa , Cui Lin , Song Lei , Xie Mei-ming 
Published: July 2024

AbstractThe ankle joint, which connects the lower limbs and the sole of the foot, is prone to sprain during walking and sports, which leads to ankle arthritis. Supratroleolar osteotomy is an ankle preserving operation for the treatment of ankle arthritis, in which the osteotomy is an important fixing and supporting part. In order to avoid stress shielding effect as much as possible, the osteotomy block is designed as a porous structure. In this study, the osteotomy block was designed based on three-period minimal surface, and the designed structure was manufactured by 3D printing. The mechanical properties of different structures were studied by mechanical test and finite element simulation. In mechanical tests, the Gyroid structure showed a progressive failure mechanism from bottom to bottom, while the Diamond structure showed a shear failure zone at 45° Angle, which was not conducive to energy absorption and was more prone to brittle fracture than the Gyroid structure. Therefore, the Gyroid structure is valuable for further research in the development of porous osteotomy.
Investigating the impact of 2-OHOA-embedded liposomes on biophysical properties of cancer cell membranes via Laurdan two-photon microscopy imaging
Authors: Rui Xuehui , Okamoto Yukihiro , Fukushima Shuichiro , Morishita Watanabe Nozomi , Umakoshi Hiroshi 
Published: July 2024

Abstract2-Hydroxyoleic acid (2-OHOA) has gained attention as a membrane lipid therapy (MLT) anti-cancer drug. However, in the viewpoint of anti-cancer drug, 2-OHOA shows poor water solubility and its effectiveness still has space for improvement. Thus, this study aimed to overcome the problems by formulating 2-OHOA into liposome dosage form. Furthermore, in the context of MLT reagents, the influence of 2-OHOA on the biophysical properties of the cytoplasmic membrane remains largely unexplored. To bridge this gap, our study specifically focused the alterations in cancer cell membrane fluidity and lipid packing characteristics before and after treatment. By using a two-photon microscope and the Laurdan fluorescence probe, we noted that liposomes incorporating 2-OHOA induced a more significant reduction in cancer cell membrane fluidity, accompanied by a heightened rate of cellular apoptosis when compared to the non-formulated 2-OHOA. Importantly, the enhanced efficacy of 2-OHOA within the liposomal formulation demonstrated a correlation with its endocytic uptake mechanism. In conclusion, our findings underscore the significant influence of 2-OHOA on the biophysical properties of cancer plasma membranes, emphasizing the potential of liposomes as an optimized delivery system for 2-OHOA in anti-cancer therapy.
Novel liquid biopsy CNV biomarkers in malignant melanoma
Authors: Lukacova E. , Hanzlikova Z. , Podlesnyi P. , Sedlackova T. , Szemes T. , Grendar M. , Samec M. , Hurtova T. , Malicherova B. , Leskova K. , Budis J. , Burjanivova T. 
Published: July 2024

AbstractMalignant melanoma (MM) is known for its abundance of genetic alterations and a tendency for rapid metastasizing. Identification of novel plasma biomarkers may enhance non-invasive diagnostics and disease monitoring. Initially, we examined copy number variations (CNV) in CDK genes (CDKN2A, CDKN2B, CDK4) using MLPA (gDNA) and ddPCR (ctDNA) analysis. Subsequently, low-coverage whole genome sequencing (lcWGS) was used to identify the most common CNV in plasma samples, followed by ddPCR verification of chosen biomarkers. CNV alterations in CDK genes were identified in 33.3% of FFPE samples (Clark IV, V only). Detection of the same genes in MM plasma showed no significance, neither compared to healthy plasmas nor between pre- versus post-surgery plasma. Sequencing data showed the most common CNV occurring in 6q27, 4p16.1, 10p15.3, 10q22.3, 13q34, 18q23, 20q11.21-q13.12 and 22q13.33. CNV in four chosen genes (KIF25, E2F1, DIP2C and TFG) were verified by ddPCR using 2 models of interpretation. Model 1 was concordant with lcWGS results in 54% of samples, for model 2 it was 46%. Although CDK genes have not been proven to be suitable CNV liquid biopsy biomarkers, lcWGS defined the most frequently affected chromosomal regions by CNV. Among chosen genes, DIP2C demonstrated a potential for further analysis.
European beech spring phenological phase prediction with UAV-derived multispectral indices and machine learning regression
Authors: Krause Stuart , Sanders Tanja 
Published: July 2024

AbstractAcquiring phenological event data is crucial for studying the impacts of climate change on forest dynamics and assessing the risks associated with the early onset of young leaves. Large-scale mapping of forest phenological timing using Earth observation (EO) data could enhance our understanding of these processes through an added spatial component. However, translating traditional ground-based phenological observations into reliable ground truthing for training and validating EO mapping applications remains challenging. This study explored the feasibility of predicting high-resolution phenological phase data for European beech (Fagus sylvatica) using unoccupied aerial vehicle (UAV)-based multispectral indices and machine learning. Employing a comprehensive feature selection process, we identified the most effective sensors, vegetation indices, training data partitions, and machine learning models for phenological phase prediction. The model that performed best and generalized well across various sites utilized Green Chromatic Coordinate (GCC) and Generalized Additive Model (GAM) boosting. The GCC training data, derived from the radiometrically calibrated visual bands of a multispectral sensor, were predicted using uncalibrated RGB sensor data. The final GCC/GAM boosting model demonstrated capability in predicting phenological phases on unseen datasets within a root mean squared error threshold of 0.5. This research highlights the potential interoperability among common UAV-mounted sensors, particularly the utility of readily available, low-cost RGB sensors. However, considerable limitations were observed with indices that implement the near-infrared band due to oversaturation. Future work will focus on adapting models to better align with the ICP Forests phenological flushing stages.
Wear simulation of UHMWPE against the different counterface roughness in reciprocating unidirectional sliding motion
Authors: Ting Chen , Weiguo Ma , Kaihui Zhu , Zilong Hu 
Published: July 2024

AbstractWear simulations of UHMWPE can economically and conveniently predict the performance of wear resistant bushings used for sealing or other reciprocating unidirectional sliding motion. In this study, pin on plate tribological experiments and microscopic analysis was done to obtained the wear profiles, wear volume and wear mechanism of UHMWPE against the counterface with different surface roughness of which Ra range is 0.03 ~ 2 μm. Meanwhile, the 3D wear simulation model of the pin on plate tribological experiments was established to discuss the adaptability of the energy and Archard wear model by analyzing the difference of wear profiles and wear volume between the experiment and simulation. The results indicate that with an increase in the counterface roughness, the wear simulation of UHMWPE estimated by the energy model were more accurate in reciprocating unidirectional sliding motion.