bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
On the entropy and information of Gaussian mixtures
Authors: Eskenazis Alexandros , Gavalakis Lampros 
Published: March 2024

AbstractWe establish several convexity properties for the entropy and Fisher information of mixtures of centred Gaussian distributions. Firstly, we prove that if are independent scalar Gaussian mixtures, then the entropy of is concave in , thus confirming a conjecture of Ball, Nayar and Tkocz (2016) for this class of random variables. In fact, we prove a generalisation of this assertion which also strengthens a result of Eskenazis, Nayar and Tkocz (2018). For the Fisher information, we extend a convexity result of Bobkov (2022) by showing that the Fisher information matrix is operator convex as a matrix‐valued function acting on densities of mixtures in . As an application, we establish rates for the convergence of the Fisher information matrix of the sum of weighted i.i.d. Gaussian mixtures in the operator norm along the central limit theorem under mild moment assumptions.
Artificial Intelligence for Thermal Energy Storage Enhancement: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Chekifi Tawfiq , Boukraa Moustafa , Benmoussa Amine 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Thermal energy storage (TES) plays a pivotal role in a wide array of energy systems, offering a highly effective means to harness renewable energy sources, trim energy consumption and costs, reduce environmental impact, and bolster the adaptability and dependability of power grids. Concurrently, artificial intelligence (AI) has risen in prominence for optimizing and fine-tuning TES systems. Various AI techniques, such as particle swarm optimization, artificial neural networks, support vector machines, and adaptive neurofuzzy inference systems, have been extensively explored in the realm of energy storage. This study provides a comprehensive overview of how AI, across diverse applications, categorizes, and optimizes energy systems. The study critically evaluates the effectiveness of these AI technologies, highlighting their impressive accuracy in achieving a range of objectives. Through a thorough analysis, the paper also offers valuable recommendations and outlines future research directions, aiming to inspire innovative concepts and advancements in leveraging AI for TESS. By bridging the gap between TES and AI techniques, this study contributes significantly to the progress of energy systems, enhancing their efficiency, reliability, and sustainability. The insights gleaned from this research will be invaluable for researchers, engineers, and policymakers, aiding them in making well-informed decisions regarding the design, operation, and management of energy systems integrated with TES.
Self-Equilibrium Analysis and Minimal Mass Design of Tensegrity Prism Units
Authors: Cao Ziying , Luo Ani , Feng Yaming , Liu Heping 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
This paper provides a specific analysis strategy for tensegrity prism units with different complexities and connectivity. Through the nodal coordinate matrix and connectivity matrix, we can establish the equilibrium equation of the structure in the self-equilibrium state, and the equilibrium matrix can be obtained. The Singular Value Decomposition (SVD) method can find the self-equilibrium configuration. The torsional angle formula between the upper and bottom surfaces of the prismatic tensegrity structure, which includes complexity and connectivity, can be obtained through the SVD form-finding method. According to the torsional angle formula of the self-equilibrium configuration, we carry out the mechanical analysis of the single node, and the force density relationship between elements is gained. As one of the standards, the mass is used to evaluate the light structure. This paper also studied the minimal mass of the self-equilibrium tensegrity structure with the same complexity in different connectivity and got the minimal mass calculation formula. A six-bar tensegrity prism unit is investigated in this paper, which shows the feasibility of systematic analysis of prismatic structures. This paper provides a theoretical reference for prismatic tensegrity units.
Axial Compressor Transonic Rotor Shock Interaction With Upstream Stator Row
Authors: Michelassi Vittorio , Burberi Corrado , Koyyalamudi Satish , Lorusso Salvatore , Del Greco Alberto Scotti 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Modern multistage axial compressors are designed for high aerodynamic loading and wide range with front stages rotor inlet relative Mach number above one over a large portion of span. Rotor shock waves propagate and reflect in the upstream stator where they provoke extra aerodynamic losses and aeromechanic risks. This paper discusses stator–rotor shock interactions using both steady and unsteady numerical simulations. The computations focus on three different stage designs with the same capacity and total pressure ratio, but different axial gaps and load distribution in stator and rotor. Speedlines from steady and unsteady computations compare the designs, and the detailed flow fields are analyzed at design and close to stall conditions. The steady and unsteady calculations predict similar stage performance, but different stator–rotor loss split. The analyses reveal how the rotor shocks orientation with respect to the upstream stator camber line controls the intensity of shocks interaction with the stator row and its propagation upstream. Finally, the paper indicates the ways to reduce the shock-driven rotor–stator interaction and suggests simple criteria to determine when to switch from steady to unsteady calculations for a reliable transonic stage performance prediction.
Retrofitting Natural Gas–Fired Boiler for Hydrogen Combustion: Operational Performance and NOx Emissions
Authors: Nemitallah Medhat A. , Aliyu Mansur , Hamdy Mohamed , Habib Mohamed A. 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The effects of hydrogen fraction (HF: volumetric fraction of H2 in the fuel mixture of CH4 + H2) from 0% to 100% by volume, on the thermal and environmental performance of a 207-MW industrial water tube boiler, are investigated numerically at a fixed excess air factor, λ = 1.15. This study aims to determine the hardware modifications required for boilers to be retrofitted for pure hydrogen operation and investigates how NOx emissions are affected by hydrogen enrichment. The results showed insignificant increases in maximum combustion temperature with increasing the HF, though the distributions of temperature profiles are distinct. In reference to the basic methane combustion, H2 flames resulted in a positive temperature rise in the vicinity of the burner. Increasing the HF from 0% to 2% resulted in higher average thermal NOx emissions at the boiler exit section from 37 up to 1284 ppm, then it decreased to 1136 ppm at HF = 30%, and later it leveled up to 1474 ppm at HF = 100%. The spots for higher differences in NO formation compared to the reference case are shifted downstream at higher HFs. The effect of hydrogen enrichment on CO2 and H2O as radiation sources, as well as the volumetric absorption radiation of the furnace wall and the heat flux at furnace surfaces, has all been presented in relation to the effect of hydrogen addition on boiler performance.
Unravelling influenza correlates of protection: lessons from human A/H1N1 Challenge
Authors: Cox Rebecca Jane , Pathirana Rishi 
Published: March 2024

ABSTRACT

Mucosal immunity is important in protecting from upper respiratory tract influenza infection. Human challenge provides a unique model to define correlates of protection with baseline immune responses being correlated to the quantity and length of viral shedding and clinical outcomes. Here, we discuss recent work on mucosal and systemic correlates of protection (R. Bean, L. T. Giurgea, A. Han, L. Czajkowski, et al., mBio 15:e02372-23, 2024,
https://doi.org/10.1128/mbio.02372-23
) and place it in the context of previous work on mucosal immunity. We also discuss the importance of standardized assays to allow global comparison of relevant immune responses in defining correlates of protection. Correlates of protection are important for designing next-generation broadly protective influenza vaccines.
Draft genome sequence of propane- and butane-oxidizing
Rhodococcus ruber
IEGM 333 able to accumulate cesium
Authors: Ivshina Irena , Kuyukina Maria , Krivoruchko Anastasiia 
Published: March 2024

ABSTRACT

A genome of
Rhodococcus ruber
IEGM 333 was sequenced and annotated. This bacterium had pronounced propane- and
n-
butane-oxidizing and cesium-accumulating activities. The obtained sequence could be used to reveal the genetic mechanisms of these activities and efficiently exploit the biotechnological potential of propanotrophic
Rhodococcus
.
Unveiling the genomic landscape ofSalmonella entericaserotypes Typhimurium, Newport, and Infantis in Latin American surface waters: a comparative analysis
Authors: Chen Zhao , Toro Magaly , Moreno-Switt Andrea I. , Adell Aiko D. , Delgado-Suárez Enrique J. , Bonelli Raquel R. , Oliveira Celso J. B. , Reyes-Jara Angélica , Huang Xinyang , Albee Brett , Grim Christopher J. , Allard Marc , Tallent Sandra M. , Brown Eric W. , Bell Rebecca L. , Meng Jianghong 
Published: March 2024

ABSTRACTSurface waters are considered ecological habitats whereSalmonella entericacan persist and disseminate to fresh produce production systems. This study aimed to explore the genomic profiles ofS. entericaserotypes Typhimurium, Newport, and Infantis from surface waters in Chile, Mexico, and Brazil collected between 2019 and 2022. We analyzed the whole genomes of 106S. Typhimurium, 161S. Newport, and 113S. Infantis isolates. Our phylogenetic analysis exhibited distinct groupings of isolates by their respective countries except for a notable case involving a ChileanS. Newport isolate closely related to two Mexican isolates, showing 4 and 13 single nucleotide polymorphisms of difference, respectively. The patterns of the most frequently detected antimicrobial resistance genes varied across countries and serotypes. A strong correlation existed between integron carriage and genotypic multidrug resistance (MDR) across serotypes in Chile and Mexico (R> 0.90,P< 0.01), while integron(s) were not detected in any of the Brazilian isolates. By contrast, we did not identify any strong correlation between plasmid carriage and genotypic MDR across diverse countries and serotypes.IMPORTANCEUnveiling the genomic landscape ofS. entericain Latin American surface waters is pivotal for ensuring public health. This investigation sheds light on the intricate genomic diversity ofS. entericain surface waters across Chile, Mexico, and Brazil. Our research also addresses critical knowledge gaps, pioneering a comprehensive understanding of surface waters as a reservoir for multidrug-resistantS. enterica. By integrating our understanding of integron carriage as biomarkers into broader MDR control strategies, we can also work toward targeted interventions that mitigate the emergence and dissemination of MDR inS. entericain surface waters. Given its potential implications for food safety, this study emphasizes the critical need for informed policies and collaborative initiatives to address the risks associated withS. entericain surface waters.
Haemodynamic compensations for exercise tissue oxygenation in early stages of COPD: an integrated cardiorespiratory assessment study
Authors: Richard Ruddy , Jensen Dennis , Touron Julianne , Frederic Costes , Mulliez Aurélien , Pereira Bruno , Filaire Laura , Marciniuk Darcy , Maltais François , Tan Wan , Bourbeau Jean , Perrault Hélène 
Published: March 2024

BackgroundCardiovascular comorbidities are increasingly being recognised in early stages of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) yet complete cardiorespiratory functional assessments of individuals with mild COPD or presenting with COPD risk factors are lacking. This paper reports on the effectiveness of the cardiocirculatory-limb muscles oxygen delivery and utilisation axis in smokers exhibiting no, or mild to moderate degrees of airflow obstruction using standardised cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET).MethodsPost-bronchodilator spirometry was used to classify participants as ‘ever smokers without’ (n=88), with ‘mild’ (n=63) or ‘mild-moderate’ COPD (n=56). All underwent CPET with continuous concurrent monitoring of oxygen uptake (V’O2) and of bioimpedance cardiac output (Qc) enabling computation of arteriovenous differences (a-vO2). Mean values of Qc and a-vO2were mapped across set ranges of V’O2and Qc isolines to allow for meaningful group comparisons, at same metabolic and circulatory requirements.ResultsPeak exercise capacity was significantly reduced in the ‘mild-moderate COPD’ as compared with the two other groups who showed similar pulmonary function and exercise capacity. Self-reported cardiovascular and skeletal muscle comorbidities were not different between groups, yet disease impact and exercise intolerance scores were three times higher in the ‘mild-moderate COPD’ compared with the other groups. Mapping of exercise Qc and a-vO2also showed a leftward shift of values in this group, indicative of a deficit in peripheral O2extraction even for submaximal exercise demands. Concurrent with lung hyperinflation, a distinctive blunting of exercise stroke volume expansion was also observed in this group.ConclusionContrary to the traditional view that cardiovascular complications were the hallmark of advanced disease, this study of early COPD spectrum showed a reduced exercise O2delivery and utilisation in individuals meeting spirometry criteria for stage II COPD. These findings reinforce the preventive clinical management approach to preserve peripheral muscle circulatory and oxidative capacities.
T cell activation markers CD38 and HLA-DR indicative of non-seroconversion in anti-CD20-treated patients with multiple sclerosis following SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccination
Authors: Verstegen Niels J M , Hagen Ruth R , Kreher Christine , Kuijper Lisan H , Dijssel Jet van den , Ashhurst Thomas , Kummer Laura Y L , Palomares Cabeza Virginia , Steenhuis Maurice , Duurland Mariël C , Jongh Rivka de , Schoot C Ellen van der , Konijn Veronique A L , Mul Erik , Kedzierska Katherine , van Dam Koos P J , Stalman Eileen W , Boekel Laura , Wolbink Gertjan , Tas Sander W , Killestein Joep , Rispens Theo , Wieske Luuk , Kuijpers Taco W , Eftimov Filip , van Kempen Zoé L E , van Ham S Marieke , ten Brinke Anja , van de Sandt Carolien E 
Published: March 2024

BackgroundMessenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines provide robust protection against SARS-CoV-2 in healthy individuals. However, immunity after vaccination of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) treated with ocrelizumab (OCR), a B cell-depleting anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody, is not yet fully understood.MethodsIn this study, deep immune profiling techniques were employed to investigate the immune response induced by SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccines in untreated patients with MS (n=21), OCR-treated patients with MS (n=57) and healthy individuals (n=30).ResultsAmong OCR-treated patients with MS, 63% did not produce detectable levels of antibodies (non-seroconverted), and those who did have lower spike receptor-binding domain-specific IgG responses compared with healthy individuals and untreated patients with MS. Before vaccination, no discernible immunological differences were observed between non-seroconverted and seroconverted OCR-treated patients with MS. However, non-seroconverted patients received overall more OCR infusions, had shorter intervals since their last OCR infusion and displayed higher OCR serum concentrations at the time of their initial vaccination. Following two vaccinations, non-seroconverted patients displayed smaller B cell compartments but instead exhibited more robust activation of general CD4+and CD8+T cell compartments, as indicated by upregulation of CD38 and HLA-DR surface expression, when compared with seroconverted patients.ConclusionThese findings highlight the importance of optimising treatment regimens when scheduling SARS-CoV-2 vaccination for OCR-treated patients with MS to maximise their humoral and cellular immune responses. This study provides valuable insights for optimising vaccination strategies in OCR-treated patients with MS, including the identification of CD38 and HLA-DR as potential markers to explore vaccine efficacy in non-seroconverting OCR-treated patients with MS.
Military service and health-related quality of life among gay and bisexual prostate cancer survivors: Results from theRestore-2study
Authors: Bates Alex J. , Mitteldorf D , Rosser B R S , Wheldon C W , Polter E J , Ross M W , Talley K M C , Haggart R , Wright M M , West W , Konety B R 
Published: March 2024

IntroductionThere are notable disparities in health-related quality of life (HRQOL) between gay and bisexual men (GBM) and heterosexual patients with prostate cancer (PCa); however, the role of past military service is unclear. This study examines HRQOL differences in GBM PCa survivors based on reported military service history.MethodsWe used data from the 24-month follow-up survey of theRestore-2study, a clinical trial which evaluated a rehabilitation programme for GBM PCa survivors. PCa HRQOL was assessed using the Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite (EPIC-50) and the Functional Assessment of Cancer Treatment-Prostate (FACT-P). Mental health quality of life was assessed using the Brief Symptom Inventory-18 (BSI-18) scale, while sexual functioning was measured using the Sexual Minorities and Prostate Cancer Scale (SMACS). Multivariable linear regression was used to estimate unadjusted and adjusted mean differences in HRQOL between GBM with and without a reported history of military service.ResultsIn this cross-sectional study of 351 GBM PCa survivors, 47 (13.4%) reported a history of US military service. After adjusting for covariates, participants who reported a history of military service (compared with those with no military service) had clinically better scores on the FACT-P physical, social and emotional well-being domains, as well as higher total FACT-General, EPIC urinary bother and hormonal function scores. Additionally, men with a history of military service reported significantly fewer sexual problems, more sexual confidence and less urinary incontinence in sex.ConclusionThis exploratory study provides the first evidence that GBM PCa survivors with a military background may have clinically better outcomes than those without military service. Potential reasons may include the structured support and healthcare access associated with military service, fostering resilience and well-being. These findings underscore the need for further research to elucidate how military service influences PCa HRQOL.
Prediction of the hydraulic conductivity function for unsaturated soils over the entire suction range
Authors: Li Yan , Hou Xiaokun , Li Tonglu , Vanapalli Sai K. , Li Ping 
Published: March 2024

The hydraulic conductivity function (HCF) refers to in this paper is the variation of hydraulic conductivity over the entire suction range from 0 to 106 kPa. Most of the available HCF models in the literature are derived based on capillary theory and have limitations in the explanation of HCF in the high suction range. Recently, several models have been proposed for accounting for the thin film flow dominated by the adsorbed water in the high suction range. However, these models require measured HCF data for describing the thin film flow, which is time-consuming. In this study, a mathematically continuous and simple model is proposed for predicting the HCF. The model has physically meaningful parameters for predicting the HCF. In this model, the residual suction estimated from the soil–water characteristic curve (SWCC) is used to distinguish the capillary and adsorption-dominated regions, and a correction operator that considers the thin film flow is introduced. The performance of the model was validated using the measured and published experimental data for various soils. In addition, the proposed model is successfully applied in a numerical investigation of the hydraulic behavior of a capillary barrier system, highlighting the role of the thin film flow.
Massive scalar field perturbations of black holes surrounded by dark matter
Authors: Bécar Ramón , González P. A. , Papantonopoulos Eleftherios , Vásquez Yerko 
Published: March 2024

AbstractWe consider scalar field perturbations in the background of black holes immersed in perfect fluid dark matter (PFDM). We find, by using the sixth-order Wentzel–Kramers–Brillouin (WKB) approximation, that the longest-lived modes are those with a higher angular number for a scalar field mass smaller than a critical value, known as the anomalous decay rate of the quasinormal modes, while beyond this critical value the opposite behavior is observed. Moreover, we show that it is possible to recover the real part of the quasinormal frequencies (QNFs), the imaginary part of the QNFs, and the critical scalar field mass of the Schwarzschild background for different values of the PFDM intensity parameter k. For values of k smaller than these values, the abovementioned quantities are greater than the Schwarzschild background. However, beyond these values of k, these quantities are smaller than the Schwarzschild background.
EFFICACY OF YWTL EXERCISES ON POSTURE IN MOTOR AND COGNITIVE DUAL TASK DURING SMARTPHONE USE
Authors: Kaushik Muskan , Singh Varun , Punia Sonu , Boora Mamta 
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Long-term physical contact while using a smartphone causes poor posture which leads to musculoskeletal disorders. The purpose of this study was to determine the efficacy of YWTL exercises on posture in motor and cognitive dual tasks during smartphone use. Methodology: Based on eligibility criteria for recruitment, 118 subjects were chosen. After being informed about the study, participants were allocated into two groups: Group A (the control group) and Group B (the experimental group). 59 individuals were allocated to each group. Before the initiation of interventions, each participant’s personal information, including age, height, weight, BMI, occupation, and screen time, was collected. Primary outcome measures CVA, CHA, and SSP were evaluated at the start of the intervention and three weeks later after the intervention. Results: The result of the study revealed that both groups’ interventions effectively improved forward head posture affected by prolonged use of smartphones. All outcome measures showed a statistically significant improvement after 3 weeks. However, on comparison between both groups, the YWTL exercises group had a more clinically significant reduction in outcomes. Conclusion: The study’s findings indicated that the application of 3 weeks of YWTL exercises combined with neck isometrics is an effective method to reduce the cranio-horizontal angle, craniovertebral angle, and sagittal shoulder angle consequently resulting in a reduction of forward head posture.
PACMNET, V2, CoNEXT1, March 2024 Editorial
Authors: Mellia Marco , Steenkiste Peter , Qiu Lili , Bonaventure Olivier 
Published: March 2024

The Proceedings of the ACM on Networking (PACMNET) series present the highest-quality research conducted in the areas of emerging computer networks and their applications. We encourage submissions that present new technologies, novel experimentation, creative use of networking technologies, and new insights made possible using analysis. The journal is strongly supported by the ACM Special Interest Group on Communications and Computer Networks (SIGCOMM) and involves top-level researchers in its Editorial Board.
This issue contains four papers submitted for the June '23 deadline that were revised by their authors based on the extensive feedback provided by the reviewers.
We would like to thank the many individuals who contributed to this issue of PACMNET, in particular the authors, who submitted their best work to PACMNET, and the Associate Editors, who provided constructive feedback to the authors in their reviews, participated in the online discussions and the Editors' meeting. We would like also to thank the SIGCOMM Executive Committee Chair and the CoNEXT Steering Committee members who supported and guided us as usual.