bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Asymmetric time-sequence for multiple-exposure 3D PTV
Authors: Scarano Fulvio , Hysa Ilda , Guerra Adrian Grille , Tuinstra Marthijn , Sciacchitano Andrea 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Making use of a single-frame to record multiple exposures (ME) of the tracer particles has the potential to simplify the hardware needed for 3D PTV measurements, especially when dealing with high-speed flows. The analysis of such recordings, however, is challenged by the unknown time-tag of each particle exposure, alongside their unknown organization into physical trajectories (trajectory-tag). Using a sequence of illumination pulses with a constant time separation leads to the well-known directional ambiguity problem, whereby it is not possible to distinguish the direction of motion of the tracer particles. Instead, coding the temporal information into a specific sequence of illumination pulses with irregular time separation results in a unique sequence of positions in the image, similar to a trace. The asymmetric pattern of the trace needs to be recognized, and a kinematic similarity criterion is introduced that selects traces most similar to the time sequence. Combining the latter with a criterion that favors trace regularity (minimum velocity fluctuations). The numerical implementation of the technique is challenged by the combinatorial growth of the calculations. The algorithm is applied to a 3D experiment and results are benchmarked against the time-resolved analysis (single-frame, single-exposure) with the Shake-the-Box method. Traces with a three-pulses yield a detection rate of 85%. The latter declines with the number of pulses. Conversely, the error rate rapidly vanishes with the samples number, which confirms the reliability of trace detection criterion when more pulses are comprised in the sequence. Potential methods to accelerate the ME recordings analysis are presented. The remaining bottlenecks hampering the direct application of the technique are also introduced and shortly discussed.
Unveiling the Evolutionary, Structural, and Regulatory Insights of a Novel Urocanate Hydratase in Acinetobacter sp. Strain DF4
Authors: Abd-El-Haleem Desouky 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

This study delves into the characterization of a novel urocanate hydratase enzyme identified in Acinetobacter sp. strain DF4, emphasizing its taxonomic distribution, conservation patterns, and functional implications. The investigation revealed a skewed taxonomic distribution of ORF1 homologs primarily within the Pseudomonadota phylum, highlighting its deeply conserved function, particularly in Gammaproteobacteria and Acinetobacter species. Homology analyses confirmed close relationships to known urocanate hydratases across bacterial species, reinforcing its role in histidine catabolism pathways. Structural analyses revealed distinct sub-domains within ORF1, suggesting potential NAD binding sites and functional roles. Conservation patterns of the NWCEFD and NWEHFN motifs across diverse organisms underscored their evolutionary significance and potential functional conservation. Post-translational modification predictions indicated multiple phosphorylation and N-myristoylation sites that may impact protein function. Transcriptional regulation elements identified in the ORF1 sequence suggested a complex regulatory network, with putative binding sites for various transcription factors and elements essential for translation initiation and RNA polymerase binding. These findings collectively provide valuable insights into the evolutionary relationships, structural features, and regulatory mechanisms governing the novel urocanate hydratase enzyme in Acinetobacter sp. strain DF4.
Malaria case management in an area with civil unrest in Cameroon: A retrospective study from 2006–2021
Authors: Ndang Ndong Henry , Mengnjo Njodzela Christian , Masumbe Palmer Netongo , Soniran Olajoju Temidayo , Chu Chuo Ennestine , Chiabi Eugene , Amambua-Ngwa Alfred , Cheng Ndong Ignatius 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background
Malaria remains a serious health challenge; thus, the need for continual improvements in treatment regimens and the adoption of new treatment guidelines to enhance case management is vital. We report trends in malaria case management over a 16-year period at the Jakiri Health Centre in Cameroon, an area that has been plagued with civil unrest since 2016.
Methods
Data were collected retrospectively from consultation, laboratory, and prescription registers and double entered into Excel. Analysis was conducted using SPSS statistics and Microsoft Excel.
Results
A total of 3,800 febrile patients visited the outpatient department (OPD), and 8,324 prescriptions were received by patients. Of these prescriptions, 11.6% (964) were anti-malarials, 3.5% (291) were ferrous sulfate (FS), 40.8% (3,396) were antibiotics (AB), and 44.1% (3,673) were analgesics. The antimalarials prescribed were artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs) 83.2% (802) and quinine (Q) 16.8% (162). No ACTs were prescribed between 2006 and 2011. The 5 to < 15 years age group received the highest proportion of ACTs (42.3%), followed by the 1 to < 5 years age group (31.8%). Males were more likely to be prescribed ACTs than females were (OR = 1.336, 95% CI 1.141–1.564; p < 0.0001). Between 2006 and 2013, the number of quinine prescriptions increased from 17.2% (21) in 2006 to a peak of 26.1% (30) in 2009 and progressively decreased to 0% between 2014 and 2019. Antibiotic prescription rates were high across all age groups. Analgesics were prescribed to all patients across age groups for malaria-positive patients. The prescription of antimalarials to malaria-negative patients was relatively low over time.
Conclusion
This study demonstrated that recommended malaria treatment guidelines have been adopted by the Jakiri Health Centre, which has transitioned from quinine as a first-line treatment to ACTs. ACTs were not used in the facility until 2012. The prevalence of malaria is still very high, and most anti-malaria treatments are appropriate. However, antibiotics and analgesics were found to be highly prescribed.
Search and Explore: Symbiotic Policy Synthesis in POMDPs
Authors: Andriushchenko Roman , Bork Alexander , Češka Milan , Junges Sebastian , Katoen Joost-Pieter , Macák Filip 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

This paper marries two state-of-the-art controller synthesis methods for partially observable Markov decision processes (POMDPs), a prominent model in sequential decision making under uncertainty. A central issue is to find a POMDP controller - that solely decides based on the observations seen so far - to achieve a total expected reward objective. As finding optimal controllers is undecidable, we concentrate on synthesising good finite-state controllers (FSCs). We do so by tightly integrating two modern, orthogonal methods for POMDP controller synthesis: a belief-based and an inductive approach. The former method obtains an FSC from a finite fragment of the so-called belief MDP, an MDP that keeps track of the probabilities of equally observable POMDP states. The latter is an inductive search technique over a set of FSCs, e.g., controllers with a fixed memory size. The key result of this paper is a symbiotic anytime algorithm that tightly integrates both approaches such that each profits from the controllers constructed by the other. Experimental results indicate a substantial improvement in the value of the controllers while significantly reducing the synthesis time and memory footprint.
The impact of LV filling pressure indexed to cardiac output on exercise capacity in HF subjects
Authors: Huang Wei-Ming , Chen Chiao-Nan , Chang Hao-Chih , Liu Yen-Tung , Wu Yen-Tze , Tseng Tzu-Ying , Cheng Hao-Min , Yu Wen-Chung , Chiang Chern-En , Chen Chen-Huan , Sung Shih-Hsien 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Exercise intolerance is the most common symptom of patients with heart failure (HF), regardless of the phenotypes. We aim to investigate the determinants of exercise capacity in chronic stable HF with reduced, mildly reduced, preserved, and recovered ejection fraction (EF).
Methods
Ambulatory HF subjects were recruited for a combined cardiopulmonary exercise test and exercise stress echocardiography. Impaired exercise capacity was referred to a peak oxygen consumption (peak VO2) of < 14 ml/kg/min, and a minute ventilation-carbon dioxide production relationship (VE/VCO2 slope) of > 34 was defined as ventilatory inefficiency.
Results
Among 66 participants, there were 16 HF with reduced EF, 18 HF with mildly reduced EF, 12 HF preserved EF, and 20 HF recovered EF. Diastolic dysfunction indices were independently predictive of impaired exercise capacity (odds ratio and 95% confidence intervals: 3.847, 1.369–10.810). GLS at rest was independently correlated with ventilatory inefficiency (1.404, 1.050–1.877). Among the exercise indices, the peak medial E/e' to cardiac output ratio was independently associated with impaired exercise capacity (3.478, 1.313–9.214) and peak GLS was best related to ventilatory inefficiency (1.403, 1.076–1.828).
Conclusions
Among resting and exertional echocardiographic variables, the peak medial E/e' to cardiac output ratio, a non-invasive assessment of exertional left ventricular filling pressure indexed to cardiac output, was the major determinant of exercise capacity in patients with different HF phenotypes.
A Superhydrophobic Coating with Sturdy Abrasion and Weather Resistance
Authors: Qi Yang , Xiao Yongtian , Zhu Maiyong , Shen Xiaojuan , Li Songjun 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Here, we developed a lotus-leaf-resembling superhydrophobic coating with sturdy abrasion and weather resistance. By taking the sturdiness of the superhydrophobicity into account, this coating was created by incorporating a zinc-mediated superhydrophobic surface that was rough and ultraviolet-resistant into a polyurethane layer capable of strong wear resistance. By spraying the zinc-mediated perfluorosilane and a polyurethane suspension onto an aluminum flake, the lotus-leaf-resembling superhydrophobic coating was thus prepared. The resulting coating displayed the natural superhydrophobic phenomena with a contact angle of up to 157.1° and a rolling angle of 4.2°, greater or smaller by depending on the dosage of zinc. The adoption of zinc to the prepared coating not only mediated the rough surface texture but also extra granted the ultraviolet resistance. In couple with the strong wear resistance of the substrate layer, the proposed superhydrophobic coating provided the expected sturdy abrasion and weather resistance. The development of the superhydrophobic coating shares a prospect with practical applications, especially outdoor applications.
Analytical Report on the Efficacy of Combination Therapy for Fungal Otitis Externa: Endoscopic VAS Analysis
Authors: Li Yan , Bai Guangping , Jin Yonggang 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Purpose: Assess the clinical impact of combining sodium bicarbonate solution ear baths with perisone cream for treating fungal otitis externa using the VAS endoscopic scoring system.
Methods: In this study, 80 patients diagnosed with fungal otitis externa at our hospital between September 2023 and April 2024 were included. The experimental cohort received a combination of sodium bicarbonate solution and perisone cream, while the control group was administered saline along with perisone cream. Endoscopic assessments of the cleanliness of the external ear canal were conducted before and after treatment using the VAS scoring system. Compared and evaluated the endoscopic VAS scores at various time points and levels to assess the efficacy of combining sodium bicarbonate solution with perisone cream in treating fungal otitis externa.
Results: In the treatment of fungal otitis externa, significant differences in VAS scores between the experimental and control groups were observed on day 4 (t = -4.391, p < 0.001), signifying a notably superior treatment effect in the experimental group compared to the control group. By day 7, another comparison of VAS scores revealed continued substantial discrepancies between the two groups (t = -5.754, p < 0.001), with the therapeutic efficacy in the experimental group persisting as significantly better than that in the control group.
Conclusions: The synergistic use of sodium bicarbonate solution and perisone cream has demonstrated exceptional efficacy in treating fungal otitis externa. These results underscore the importance of broader adoption of this regimen within clinical settings, highlighting its significant potential for widespread application.
Multi-objective robust decision-making for optimizing Subway Station Support Systems under spatial variability of soil parameters
Authors: Mohammadi Elaheh , Nikoo Mohammad Reza , Javankhoshdel Sina , Ghahramani Arsalan , Jahanandish Mojtaba , Sousa Rita 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

In response to challenges in the design process of concrete arch pre-supporting systems (CAPS) for urban subway stations, we propose a novel approach that integrates robust multi-objective decision-making, ensemble learning, and clustering algorithms. This integrated framework aims to achieve an optimal design by considering both design objectives and geotechnical uncertainties and achieving a balance between safety and cost. While Multi-Objective Optimization (MOO) is widely used to balance multiple objectives, traditional methods like Genetic Algorithms often neglect uncertainties in variables. Most prior studies have concentrated on finding optimal solutions without considering variable uncertainties or their correlations. Our approach considers soil uncertainties, a critical factor often overlooked in real-world projects, and strives to understand how variability in soil parameters affects support system performance. In fact, this study introduces a comprehensive framework for managing the design of support systems for subway stations built using the CAPS method, under conditions of uncertainty in soil parameters. The proposed framework is designed to provide decision-makers with optimal support system parameters while also assessing the robustness of the system against uncertainties in soil. The framework combines various techniques such MOO, artificial neural networks, robust decision-making, Cholesky decomposition, and Bayesian learning. With this framework, designers can select solutions that align with their specific criteria while minimizing the impact of soil uncertainties. To improve this framework, future research can incorporate additional robustness evaluation metrics and consider uncertainties in other soil parameters. This comprehensive approach has significant potential for evaluating design alternatives through a range of multi-criteria decision-making methods.
Enhancing cycling stability in NaǁZn liquid metal batteries with Fe- based foam negative current collectors
Authors: Zhang Fang , Xu Junli , Liu Zhaoshun , Wang Duo , Kong Lingyu , Lv Ziyang , Diop Mouhamadou Aziz , Liu Aimin , Shi Zhongning 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

The corrosion resistance of the current collector seriously affects the capacity and stable cycling of liquid metal batteries (LMBs). This investigation explores the interface reactions and electrochemical properties between Ni-Fe and Fe foam negative current collectors and the liquid negative metals in Na|NaCl-CaCl2|Zn LMB. The results elucidate that Ni-Fe foam is erroded and the corrosion products of Ca2Ni5, and Ni2Zn11 are formed on the surface. It accelerates the deposition of Zn and the dissolution of Ni-Fe matrix, thereby leads to a decreation in discharge capacity of the battery. Specifically, the Na/NF‖Zn LMB exhibits a capacity degradation rate of 0.12% over 80 cycles at a current density of 100 m A cm− 2. However, the emergence of a Fe-Zn alloy on the Fe foam augments the corrosion resistance of the collector and the lifespan of the battery. This is evidenced by the Na/F‖Zn LMB maintaining 97.2% of its initial capacity after 328 cycles, which translates to a minuscule capacity attenuation rate of merely 0.00854%/ per cycle. This study further improves the perfomence of the negative current collector for NaǁZn LMBs, and provids a better candidate materials for the large-scale application of energy storage batteries.
Federated Learning for Secure and Efficient Vehicular Communications in Open RAN
Authors: Asad Muhammad , Shaukat Saima , Nakazato Jin , Javanmardi Ehsan , Tsukada Manabu 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

This paper presents a comprehensive exploration of federated learning applied to vehicular communications within the context of Open RAN. Through an in-depth review of existing literature and analysis of fundamental concepts, critical challenges are identified within the current methodologies employed in this sphere. A novel framework is proposed to address these shortcomings, fundamentally based on federated learning principles. This framework aims to enhance security and efficiency in vehicular communications, leveraging the flexibility of Open RAN architecture. The paper further delves into a rigorous justification of the proposed solution, highlighting its potential impact and the improvements it could bring to vehicular communications. Ultimately, this study provides a roadmap for future research in applying federated learning for more secure and efficient vehicular communications in Open RAN, opening up new avenues for exploration in this exciting interdisciplinary domain.
Site-characterization using 1D/2D/3D Site Response Modelling vis-à-vis Surface-consistent Probabilistic Seismic Hazard, Microzonation and Damage Potential Studies in the Six-Tectonic Ensemble consisting of Kashmir Himalaya to Northeast India
Authors: Nath Sankar Kumar , Biswas Arpita , Srivast Anand , Madan Jyothula , Ghatak Chitralekha , Bind Amrendra Pratap , Sengupta Arnab , Singh Pritam 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Indian subcontinent, marked by its intricate seismotectonic settings stands out as the most active region in the globe. This study conducts a firm rock-compliant Probabilistic Seismic Hazard Assessment considering both tectonic and polygonal sources in 0-25km, 25-70km, 70-180km, and 180-300km depth ranges, Next Generation Attenuation models through a logic tree framework across the Tectonic Ensemble from Kashmir Himalaya to Northeast India encompassing six seismogenic tectonic provinces classifying the Ensemble in the 'High' to 'Severe' hazard regime, highlighting the need for a site-specific surface-consistent investigation that shear-wave velocity characterises the Ensemble into 11 site classes and estimates Surface-consistent Probabilistic Seismic Hazard of the Ensemble in the range of 0.25-2.91g for 475 years of return period using a systematic 1D/2D/3D site response analysis. Liquefaction Potential and Landslide Susceptibility Index adds secondary hazard to both geohazard and seismic hazard regime for a comprehensive seismic hazard microzonation of the important Cities and urban centres in the Tectonic Ensemble. The damage states modelled using capacity spectrum method on prevailing building types for the Surface-consistent Probabilistic PGA by SELENA are found to be well-aligned with the reported damage scenarios of A1, URM, and RC buildings triggered by large historical earthquakes in each of the tectonic provinces.
Chronic stress deficits in reward behaviour are underlain by low nucleus accumbens dopamine activity during reward anticipation specifically
Authors: Zhang Chenfeng , Dulinskas Redas , Ineichen Christian , Greter Alexandra , Sigrist Hannes , Li Yulong , Alanis-Lobato Gregorio , Hengerer Bastian , Pryce Christopher 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Whilst reward pathologies e.g., anhedonia and apathy, are major and common in stress-related neuropsychiatric disorders, their neurobiological bases and therefore treatment are poorly understood. Functional imaging studies in humans with reward pathology indicate that attenuated BOLD activity in nucleus accumbens (NAc) occurs during reward anticipation/expectancy but not reinforcement; potentially, this is dopamine (DA) related. In mice, chronic social stress (CSS) leads to reduced reward learning and effortful motivation and, here, DA-sensor fibre photometry was used to investigate whether these behavioural deficits co-occur with altered NAc DA activity during reward anticipation and/or reinforcement. In CSS mice relative to controls: (1) Reduced discriminative learning of the sequence, tone-on + appetitive behaviour = tone-on + sucrose reinforcement, co-occurred with attenuated NAc DA activity throughout tone-on and sucrose reinforcement. (2) Reduced effortful motivation during the sequence, operant behaviour = tone-on + sucrose delivery + tone-off / appetitive behaviour = sucrose reinforcement, co-occurred with attenuated NAc DA activity at tone-on and typical activity at sucrose reinforcement. (3) Reduced effortful motivation during the sequence, operant behaviour = appetitive behaviour + sociosexual reinforcement co-occurred with typical NAc DA activity at female reinforcement. Therefore, in CSS mice attenuated NAc DA activity is specific to reward anticipation and as such potentially causal to deficits in learning and motivation. CSS did not impact on the transcriptome of ventral tegmentum DA neurons, suggesting that its stimulus-specific effects on NAc DA activity originate elsewhere in the neural circuitry of reward processing.
Efficient Automated Cardiovascular Disease Detection Using Machine Learning
Authors: Moridani Mohammad Karimi 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Cardiovascular diseases pose a significant threat to global public health. Among diagnostic approaches, heart sound detection techniques offer non-invasive means for predicting cardiovascular conditions. While electrocardiogram (ECG) signals are commonly utilized for heart disease diagnosis, their limited spatial resolution necessitates alternative methods. Phonocardiogram (PCG) signals and sound processing techniques present viable alternatives. This paper explores the extraction of diverse features from PCG signals to classify patients using artificial intelligence algorithms. Simulation results demonstrate the superior performance of the XGBoost algorithm in cardiovascular patient detection compared to other methods. Specificity, sensitivity, and accuracy values were recorded at 99±1.93%, 98±2.76%, and 99±1.78%, respectively. Implementing the proposed method promises accurate and swift diagnosis of cardiovascular patients, offering significant support to healthcare professionals in patient screening. Future research avenues include extending this methodology to diagnose heart valve diseases, further enhancing its clinical utility.
Applying Large Language Model (LLM) for Developing Cybersecurity Policies to Counteract Spear Phishing Attacks on Senior Corporate Managers
Authors: Quinn Thomas , Thompson Olivia 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Applying Google Gemini's generative AI capabilities, this research provided a novel approach to developing and implementing cybersecurity policies targeted at mitigating spear phishing attacks against senior corporate managers. The study demonstrated significant enhancements in the detection, prevention, and response strategies within corporate cybersecurity frameworks, by integrating advanced artificial intelligence with traditional security protocols. The application of machine learning algorithms not only improved the accuracy and speed of threat detection but also enabled dynamic policy adjustments based on real-time data analysis, proving crucial in the evolving landscape of digital threats. The findings underscore the potential of AI to transform cybersecurity practices, offering more adaptable, proactive, and robust defenses against increasingly sophisticated spear phishing techniques. Further, the study explores the implications of AI-driven policies for corporate governance and compliance, suggesting a new paradigm in which AI not only supports but actively defines strategic security decisions. The promising results invite further investigation into broader applications of AI in cybersecurity, pointing toward a future where AI integration is standard in the defense against complex cyber threats.