bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The space analogue of the Euler–Darboux equation with strong degeneracy
Authors: Dolgopolov Mikhail , Elisov Maksim , Rodionova Irina 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
On the set Ω, which is a prism bounded by the planes y=x, y=0, x=h, z=0, z=h (h>0), a spatial analogue of the Euler–Darboux–Poisson equation is considered with two parameters taking values 1) α=1, 0 < β < 1; 2) α=1, 1 < β < 2; 3) α=1, −1 < β < 0. The singularity plane of the coefficients of the equation z = x − y divides the set Ω into two subregions, in which for each of the three cases: a) a general solution to this equation is constructed; b) problems with boundary conditions on the plane z = x − y were formulated and solved (modified Cauchy problems); c) on the set Ω, a boundary value problem was solved with data on adjacent faces of the prism and matching conditions on the internal plane z = x − y.
Antigen experience history directs distinct functional states of CD8+ CAR T cells during the anti-leukemia response
Authors: Fry Terry , DeGolier Kole , Danis Etienne , D’Antonio Marc , Cimons Jennifer , Yarnell Michael , Kedl Ross , kohler Mark , Scott-Browne James 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Chimeric antigen receptor T cells are an effective therapy for B-lineage malignancies. However, many patients relapse and this therapeutic has yet to show strong efficacy in other hematologic or solid tumors. One opportunity for improvement lies in the ability to generate T cells with desirable functional characteristics. Here, we dissect the biology of CD8+ CAR T cells (CAR8) by controlling whether the T cell has encountered cognate TCR antigen prior to CAR generation. We find that prior antigen experience influences multiple aspects of in vitro and in vivo CAR8 functionality, resulting in superior effector function and leukemia clearance in the setting of limiting target antigen density compared to antigen-inexperienced T cells. However, this comes at the expense of inferior proliferative capacity, susceptibility to phenotypic exhaustion and dysfunction, and inability to clear wildtype leukemia in the setting of limiting CAR+ cell dose. Epigenomic and transcriptomic comparisons of these cell populations identified overexpression of the Runx2 transcription factor as a novel strategy to enhance CAR8 function, with a differential impact depending on prior cell state. Collectively, our data demonstrate that prior antigen experience determines functional attributes of a CAR T cell, as well as amenability to functional enhancement by transcription factor modulation.
Sequence-based data-constraint deep learning framework to predict spider dragline mechanical properties
Authors: Keten Sinan , Pandey Akash , Chen Wei 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
We establish a deep-learning framework for describing the mechanical behavior of spider dragline silks to clarify the missing link between the sequence and mechanics of this exceptionally strong and tough biomaterial. The method utilizes sequence and mechanical property data of dragline spider silk as well as enriching descriptors such as residue-level mobility (B-factor) predictions. Our sequence representation captures the relative position, repetitiveness, as well as descriptors of amino acids that serve to physically enrich the model. We obtain high Pearson correlation coefficients (0.76-0.88) for strength, toughness, and other properties, which show that our B-factor based representation outperforms pure sequence-based models or models that use other descriptors. We prove the utility of our framework by identifying influential motifs, and also by demonstrating how the B-factor serves to pinpoint potential mutations that improve strength and toughness, thereby establishing a validated, predictive, and interpretable sequence model for designing sustainable biomaterials with sequence-defined properties.
A Scientometric Review of Technology-Assisted Teaching Chinese as a Second or Foreign Language Based on CiteSpace
Authors: Zhao Zhao , Harji Madhubala Bava 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

This paper presents the outcome of a visual analysis of articles published in Web of Science Core Collection (WOSCC) and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), from the establishment of the databases to December 31, 2022. The aim is to explore the hotspots, themes, technological evolutions, and emerging trends and gaps of technology-assisted Teaching Chinese as a Second/Foreign Language (TCSL/TCFL). A scientometrical review of collected articles is conducted with CiteSpace, and several findings are concluded: (1) Apparent increases in the interdisciplinary publications in CNKI and WOSCC have been witnessed. (2) Trans-regional collaborations among global authors and institutions are found to be rather limited. (3) Conventional technologies in the last decade such as “multimedia” “mobile learning” and “Internet” and more welcomed and prolonged. New trends have also emerged due to the changes in the global context. (4) New research directions such as distance education and cultural education have emerged in recent years. Hence it is suggested that updated technologies and new ideas should be absorbed in TCSL/TCFL to keep up with global development, and modern venues should be explored to enhance Chinese teaching and learning effectiveness.
Daratumumab-RD InductionSequential Autologous Stem Cell Transplantation for a new diagnosed case of POEMS Syndrome with 17p deletion solitary plasmacytoma of bone
Authors: Wang Ruiqi , Shi Zhangzhen , Cong Dan , Bai Yuansong , Zhang Wenlong 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Background Daratumumab-based induction therapy and autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) are the recommended treatments for plasma cell tumors such as multiple myeloma and amyloidosis; however, few reports have examined the utility of this treatment strategy for POEMS syndrome with solitary plasmacytoma of the bone.Case presentation A patient presented with POEMS syndrome. Although myasthenia was the primary manifestation, POEMS was accompanied by a solitary plasmacytoma of the bone harboring a 17p13.1 deletion. The overall neuropathy limitations scale (ONLS) score was 5 for both upper limbs and 7 for both lower limbs. After four cycles of induction therapy with daratumumab (Dara) plus lenalidomide and dexamethasone (Rd) immunofixation electrophoresis became negative, and complete remission of hematological and vascular endothelial growth factor (HRCR & VCR) was achieved. Subsequently, he received local radiotherapy (DT 5000cGy/25f), high-dose chemotherapy combined with ASCT, two cycles of Dara-Rd consolidation, and lenalidomide (10 mg/day) as maintenance. He has remained in continuous HRCR and VCR for 18 months, with an ONLS score of 3 for both upper limbs and 2 on both lower limbs, thereby restoring independent walking.Conclusions Dara-Rd induction followed by radiotherapy and ASCT appears to be a safe, effective, and promising strategy for POEMS syndrome with an isolated plasma cell tumor of the bone.
Ethnobotanical knowledge and practices of pastoralist communities on plants used as repellents and/or insecticides against insect vectors in the Korahaye zone of the Somali Regional State, eastern Ethiopia
Authors: Alemayehu Getu , Megersa Moa , Damme Patrick Van 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Background
Combined efforts to combat both outdoor and indoor transmission of malaria parasites are hampered by emerging vector resistance in a wide range of endemic malaria settings in Ethiopia and the rest of the world, stressing the need for developing and implementing alternative control measures. This study aimed to document indigenous pastoralist knowledge on the use of repellent and insecticidal plant species against insect vectors in a number of kebeles in the Somali Regional State, eastern Ethiopia.
Methods
Data were collected by interviewing a total of 120 informants (105 men and 15 women) through face-to-face interviews guided by a semistructured questionnaire, observing information on the preparation method, and performing a guided field walk with a guide to collect plant specimens. The ethnobotanical survey was carried out 5 May 2018-12 April 2019. Medicinal plant specimens were collected following a standard approach, and voucher specimens were deposited in the Jigjiga University mini herbarium. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, preference rankings, paired comparisons and direct matrix rankings.
Results
A total of 52 voucher specimens belonging to 47 genera and 34 families were obtained. Of these, 42 were reported to be repellents against mosquitoes or insects in general. Among the plant families recorded, Fabaceae had the highest number of plant species, 5 (9.61%). The best-represented life forms were herbs (21, 41.96%), followed by shrubs (17, 32.69%). Leaves were the most commonly used plant part for remedy preparation and accounted for 18 (33.96%) of the total plants. Among the repellent plant species documented, 57.68% were reported to be burned to produce in-house smoke, 20.37% were mashed, and the paste was applied on the body to repel insects. The plants that were commonly mentioned by respondents were Amaranthus sparganiocephalus (27 mentions, 22.5%), Phytolacca dodecandra (18, 15%), and Commiphora rostrata (26, 21.66%) for repellent, insecticidal, and both repellent and insecticidal uses, respectively.
Conclusion
The present study showed that pastoralist communities have valuable indigenous knowledge and practices related to the use of plants as repellents. This knowledge should be validated and confirmed experimentally and possibly promoted as a sustainable and ecosystem-friendly insect vector control tool.
Infecting Minds: Perceptions and attitudes towards vaccines among rural and urban dwellers in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Authors: Orievulu Kingsley Stephen , Frampton Sally , Matthews Philippa C. , Mpanza Nondumiso , Mjilo Thabisile , Nxumalo Samukelisiwe , Hordern Joshua , Seeley Janet 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Background
We investigated how social and contextual factors shape perceptions and attitudes of rural and urban dwellers towards vaccines in South Africa. We assessed the views, acceptance, and uptake of vaccines for a range of infectious diseases, in the light of the experiences of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Methods
We conducted 30 in-depth face-to-face and virtual interviews in the uMkhanyakude district municipality and Durban, KwaZulu-Natal South Africa. Participants were adults (≥ 18 years) consisting of ordinary citizens, traditional leaders and healers, and nurses. Data collection was conducted in IsiZulu. Thematic analysis was used to identify key themes.
Findings
We found broad vaccine acceptance among most study participants. The main reasons given for vaccine uptake included fear of death, government campaigns, vaccine mandates and penalties, understanding the importance of vaccines for disease prevention and survival, and securing the health of family members. Older participants (≥ 40 years) demonstrated more positive attitudes towards vaccines. Most participants downplayed the role of culture and religion in attitudes towards vaccines. Some of the drivers of vaccine hesitancy were having an ancestral calling, medical pluralism, or local myths around the treatment of infections such as influenza and mumps, insufficient information, a perceived depopulation agenda couched in mistrust and the use of incentives and threats to force people to accept COVID-19 vaccines.
Conclusion
Participants’ views shape the understanding of vaccine confidence in South Africa. Exploring the roots of vaccine hesitancy over time in communities occupying different geographical and cultural spaces provides opportunities to understand the complex reasons why vaccines are accepted or rejected. The exploration of contexts, exposures and circumstances provide insights into perceptions, outlook, and behaviour. Deeper engagement with local communities is therefore crucial to develop evidence that can inform vaccine interventions. Assumptions about how culture and religion affect vaccine hesitancy or acceptance should be avoided in the process of developing such evidence.
Process evaluation of a smartphone app (Drink Less) for reducing alcohol consumption: engagement and behavioural mechanisms of action (iDEAS trial)
Authors: Garnett Claire , Dinu Larisa-Maria , Oldham Melissa , Perski Olga , Loebenberg Gemma , Beard Emma , Angus Colin , Burton Robyn , Field Matt , Greaves Felix , Hickman Matthew , Kaner Eileen , Michie Susan , Munafo Marcus , Pizzo Elena , Brown Jamie 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

This is a process evaluation of a large UK-based randomised controlled trial (RCT) (n = 5,602) evaluating the effectiveness of recommending an alcohol reduction app, Drink Less, compared with usual digital care in reducing alcohol consumption in increasing and higher risk drinkers. The aim was to understand whether participants’ engagement (‘self-reported adherence’) and behavioural characteristics were mechanisms of action underpinning the effectiveness of Drink Less. Self-reported adherence with both digital tools was over 70% (Drink Less: 78.0%, 95% CI = 77.6–78.4; usual digital care: 71.5%, 95% CI = 71.0-71.9). Self-reported adherence to the intervention (average causal mediation effect [ACME]=-0.250, 95% CI=-0.42, -0.11) and self-monitoring behaviour (ACME=-0.235, 95% CI=-0.44, -0.03) both mediated the effect of the intervention (versus comparator) on alcohol reduction. Following the recommendation (self-reported adherence) and the tracking (self-monitoring behaviour) feature of the Drink Less app appear to be important mechanisms of action for alcohol reduction among increasing and higher risk drinkers.
Fine tuned multi-attack recognizer system of IoT computing environments
Authors: OBAID SHARAFALDEEN , IBRAHIM ABDULLAHI , AL-BARMANI ZAHRAA 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
In the present era, there has been a swift global proliferation of Internet of Things (IoT) applications, driven by their ability to enhance various facets of business operations, industry, and daily routines. Nonetheless, these IoT devices remain vulnerable to malicious network activity, posing a risk of detrimental outcomes and disruptions to their functionality. As a result, it is imperative to devise a screening method for network traffic that can effectively identify and categorize such malicious behavior, thereby reducing its adverse effects. This paper introduces an intrusion detection system designed for IoT environments, utilizing the extensive IoTID20 dataset, comprising 83 features and three class labels. The first label distinguishes between normal network traffic and potential anomalies, while the second classifies anomaly traffic into four distinct categories, including Mirai, denial of service (DoS) attack, Scan attack, and man-in-the-middle (MITM) attacks. Further refinement is achieved with the third-class label, which provides additional granularity, categorizing Mirai attacks into specific types like Ackflooding, HTTP Flooding, Hostbruteforceg, and UDP Flooding, and similarly, differentiating Scan attacks into port-based classifications. The methodology employed involves a systematic approach, encompassing critical stages such as data preprocessing, feature selection, hyperparameter optimization, and classification. Notably, data preprocessing plays a pivotal role in enhancing dataset integrity by removing identifier features, handling null values, and addressing noisy feature distributions. This process led to a streamlined feature set of 67, paving the way for subsequent feature selection techniques. Correlation coefficient, particle swarm optimization (PSO), and grey wolf optimization (GWO) feature selection methods were thoughtfully integrated, resulting in a refined feature subset of 17, 16, and 22 features for label, category, and subcategory, respectively. A strategic commonality approach further condensed this feature set to just four key features - 'Bwd_Seg_Size_Avg', 'Pkt_Len_Var', 'Src_Port', and 'Dst_Port'. The system's efficacy was further bolstered through the utilization of CHIO for fine-tuning the decision tree model, resulting in promising accuracy rates of 99.96%, 99.56%, and 77.6% for label, category, and subcategory classification, respectively. This comprehensive system showcases exceptional potential in fortifying IoT network security against a spectrum of potential threats.
Seroconversion and prevalence of Hepatitis B surface antigen among vaccinated health care workers in Ashanti Region, Ghana
Authors: Obeng Michael Agyemang , Okwan Daniel Kobina , Adankwah Ernest , Owusu Pisco Kofi , Gyamerah Samuel Asante , Duah Kluivert Boakye , Paintsil Ellis Kobina 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Background
Health care workers (HCWs) constantly stand a high risk of exposure to the hepatitis B virus because of the nature of their work. Hence, it is mandatory for HCWs to undergo hepatitis B vaccination. However, most HCWs in Ghana do not check their HBsAb titre after completion of their primary vaccination. This study assessed the prevalence of HBsAg and the seroconversion rate among vaccinated health care workers in the Ashanti Region, Ghana.
Materials and methods
A semi-structured open-ended questionnaire was pretested and administered to 424 HCWs. Two (2) ml of blood was drawn and qualitative analyses (HBsAg, HBsAb, HBeAg, HBeAb and HBcAb) were done on the blood samples. Samples that tested positive to HBsAb were quantified using ELISA. Data obtained were analysed using GraphPad Prism 9.
Results
Out of the 424 study participants, 271 (63.9%) were females and 153 (36.1%) were males. Seroconversion (≥1 mIU/mL) and seroprotection (≥10 mIU/mL)through vaccination onlyamong study participants were 67.5% (n/N = 286/424) and 58.0% (n/N =246/424) respectively. Prevalence of hepatitis B viral infection was 2.4% (n/N = 10/424). Anti-HBc sero-positivity was 13.2% and anti-HBs seronegativity was 24.1%. 2.4% (n/N = 10/424) of study participants were negative to HBsAg but positive to HBcAb. Additional 8.5% (n/N = 36/424) of the study participants were seroprotected due to exposure and recovery from previous HBV infection. Age, the number of doses received, taking a booster dose and keeping a vaccination record card were significant factors influencing seroconversion status.
Conclusion
This study reaffirms the need for HCWs to undergo a supervised primary hepatitis B vaccination course. Post-vaccination serological testing should be done for all HWCs to confirm immunity and to reduce their chances of contracting HBV infection.
Influence of the soil properties on meso-mechanical behaviors of Soil-rock mixtures
Authors: Khan Kaleem Ullah Jan , Xu Wen-Jie , Zhang 张杨杨 , Wang Hong-Bin 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Soil-rock mixtures (S-RMs) are widely distributed in nature that extensively encounter geohazards as landslides and debris flows. The meso-mechanical behaviors of such geomaterials are quite complex due to varying rock block content and soil composition. This study considers two types of S-RM samples with varying physical properties. A series of triaxial tests under different consolidated drained (saturated and unsaturated) and undrained conditions with varying confining stresses are performed, and the influence of soil properties on the meso-mechanical response of S-RMs are studied. The experimental investigations revealed that the soil properties, even with the similar percentage of rock content, significantly influence the mechanical behaviors of S-RM. The findings indicate that the strength parameters and rock block breakage ratio of S-RM samples with non-cohesive soil exhibit decreased susceptibility to influence compared to S-RM samples with cohesive soils. Both samples (S1 and S2) exhibited an apparent hardening trend in their stress-strain mechanism under consolidated drained unsaturated conditions without reaching a peak stress. Furthermore, the modified Mohr-Coulomb relationship with a power law function is suggested to obtain the p-qlinear relationship of shear strength parameters of S-RM after the particle breakage in the tests of different types of samples. The present study paved the way for new insights into meso-mechanical behavior and deformation mechanisms in S-RMs existing in nature.
A novel semiquantum key distribution protocol with Bell states
Authors: Sun Zhenying 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
In this paper, a novel semiquantum key distribution (SQKD) protocol is proposed by using Bell state, where quantum Alice can sharesecret bits with classical Bob via quantum channel. Classical Bob is required to measure particles with thebasis, produce fresh particles within thebasis and send particles via quantum channel. Security analysis turns out that this protocol is immune to various attacks launched by the outside eavesdropper. Compared with present SQKD protocols using Bell states without a third party, on one hand, this protocol has the highest qubit efficiency; and on the other hand, the reflecting operations of the classical user in this protocol contribute to the generation of final shared key.
Application of Remote Sensing and Geophysical Methods for Delineating Groundwater Potential at North Western Nigeria
Authors: Osumeje Joseph , Eshimiakhe Daniel , Oniku Adetola Sunday , Lawal Kola 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

The hydrogeological environment can be mapped and groundwater zones identified by combining geophysical and remote sensing methods. In the Palladan and Basawa region of Sabon-Gari local government area in Kaduna state, northwest Nigeria, subsurface features that serve as conduits for groundwater flow are identified and removed using an integrated methodology. The analytical hierarchy process (AHP) was used to enhance, weight, prioritize, and rank a number of remote sensing and geographic datasets. A GIS platform was then utilized to integrate thematic data and create a groundwater potentiality zonation (GWPZ) map. Topographic lineaments in the area are brought to light in remote sensing data using the lineament extraction technique. Based on the lineament density map, the distribution of these lineaments reveals the degree of porosity or permeability in each area and, consequently, its groundwater potential. Aeromagnetic data filtering permits the construction of a structural map that illustrates various geophysical lineaments that are known to be fault systems in the research area. These faults are the main routes via which groundwater seeps to the subsurface and granitoid-type magnetic rocks intrude into the basement. The research region is badly fractured/failed and made up of four lithologic units, including the aquifer layer (clayey sands in the cracked basement) with thicknesses varying from 12–55 m, according to the vertical electrical sounding (VES) applications. According to geoelectric cross-sections, the subsurface structures are made of granitic rocks that are surrounded by normal faults that trend both NW and NE. It is believed that groundwater flows into the hard rock aquifers in the studied locations through these notable geological features, such as faults and fractures.
Simulation of Multiple Stages in Single Bin Active Tile Self-Assembly
Authors: Cirlos Sonya C. , Gomez Timothy , Grizzell Elise , Rodriguez Andrew , Schweller Robert , Wylie Tim 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Two significant and often competing goals within the field of self-assembly are minimizing tile types and minimizing human-mediated experimental operations. The introduction of the Staged Assembly and Single Staged Assembly models, while successful in the former aim, necessitate an increase in mixing operations later. In this paper, we investigate building optimal lines as a standard benchmark shape and building primitive.We show that a restricted version of the 1D Staged Assembly Model can be simulated by the 1D Freezing Tile Automata model with the added benefits of the complete automation of stages and completion in a single bin while maintaining bin parallelism and a competitive number of states for lines, patterned lines, and context-free grammars.