bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Hierarchical multi-scale parametric optimization of deep neural networks
Authors: Zhang Sushen , Vassiliadis Vassilios S. , Dorneanu Bogdan , Arellano-Garcia Harvey 
Published: July 2023

AbstractTraditionally, sensitivity analysis has been utilized to determine the importance of input variables to a deep neural network (DNN). However, the quantification of sensitivity for each neuron in a network presents a significant challenge. In this article, a selective method for calculating neuron sensitivity in layers of neurons concerning network output is proposed. This approach incorporates scaling factors that facilitate the evaluation and comparison of neuron importance. Additionally, a hierarchical multi-scale optimization framework is proposed, where layers with high-importance neurons are selectively optimized. Unlike the traditional backpropagation method that optimizes the whole network at once, this alternative approach focuses on optimizing the more important layers. This paper provides fundamental theoretical analysis and motivating case study results for the proposed neural network treatment. The framework is shown to be effective in network optimization when applied to simulated and UCI Machine Learning Repository datasets. This alternative training generates local minima close to or even better than those obtained with the backpropagation method, utilizing the same starting points for comparative purposes within a multi-start optimization procedure. Moreover, the proposed approach is observed to be more efficient for large-scale DNNs. These results validate the proposed algorithmic framework as a rigorous and robust new optimization methodology for training (fitting) neural networks to input/output data series of any given system.

Graphical Abstract
Evaluation of potential aging biomarkers in healthy individuals: telomerase, AGEs, GDF11/15, sirtuin 1, NAD+, NLRP3, DNA/RNA damage, and klotho
Authors: Borsky Pavel , Holmannova Drahomira , Andrys Ctirad , Kremlacek Jan , Fiala Zdenek , Parova Helena , Rehacek Vit , Svadlakova Tereza , Byma Svatopluk , Kucera Otto , Borska Lenka 
Published: July 2023

AbstractAging is a natural process of gradual decrease in physical and mental capacity. Biological age (accumulation of changes and damage) and chronological age (years lived) may differ. Biological age reflects the risk of various types of disease and death from any cause. We selected potential biomarkers of aging - telomerase, AGEs, GDF11 and 15 (growth differentiation factor 11/15), sirtuin 1, NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide), inflammasome NLRP3, DNA/RNA damage, and klotho to investigate changes in their levels depending on age and sex. We included 169 healthy volunteers and divided them into groups according to age (under 35; 35–50; over 50) and sex (male, female; male and female under 35; 35–50, over 50). Markers were analyzed using commercial ELISA kits. We found differences in values depending on age and gender. GDF15 increased with age (under 30 and 35–50 p < 0.002; 35–50 and over 50; p < 0.001; under 35 and over 50; p < 0.001) as well as GDF11 (35–50 and over 50; p < 0.03; under 35 and over 50; p < 0.02), AGEs (under 30 and 35–50; p < 0.005), NLRP3 (under 35 over 50; p < 0.03), sirtuin 1 (35–50 and over 50; p < 0.0001; under 35 and over 50; p < 0.004). AGEs and GDF11 differed between males and females. Correlations were identified between individual markers, markers and age, and markers and sex. Markers that reflect the progression of biological aging vary with age (GDF15, GDF11, AGEs, NLRP3, sirtuin) and sex (AGEs, GDF11). Their levels could be used in clinical practice, determining biological age, risk of age-related diseases and death of all-causes, and initiating or contraindicating a therapy in the elderly based on the patient’s health status.
Thinking structures of climate delay: internal deliberations among Swedes with sustainable ambitions
Authors: Wormbs Nina , Wolrath Söderberg Maria 
Published: July 2023

AbstractIt is important to understand how individuals in affluent societies reason around their own actions in relation to climate change. However, much of the research has focused on sceptics and those who have little interest in change. Studying those who want to contribute to a transition and why they fail is also of interest. This study is qualitative and deals with the internal reasoning of a self-selected sample of Swedes with sustainable values who argue in relation to a failed intention. Ca 400 responses were analysed. We used topos theory to identify thinking structures that guide the arguments used to deal with the cognitive dissonance that acting against knowledge and intention results in. The most common ways to argue were to imagine a climate account with possible deposits and withdrawals, or a budget which you strive to keep. Also common was to compare with something or someone that was ”worse”. Redirecting responsibility was also an argument, albeit complicating the issue of responsibility. The limits of reality were used as an excuse for action, whereas articulating the goal conflicts of a less emitting life made choices visible. Finally, the human condition of not always meeting your own standards was mentioned. These arguments only partly overlap common discourses of delay in the public sphere.
Moderating role of audit quality in ESG performance and capital financing dynamics: insights in China
Authors: Zahid R. M. Ammar , Saleem Adil , Maqsood Umer Sahil , Sági Judit 
Published: July 2023

AbstractThis study uncovers the relationship of company’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) performance and capital structure in Chinese corporate sector. Additionally, we investigated if audit quality intervenes this ESG—capital structure nexus. Using panel regressions with fixed effects, we chose Chinese A-Listed companies giving 6295 firm-year observations from 2010 to 2019. The results support the legitimacy theory, suggesting that a company's ESG disclosure and overall progress is a crucial factor in determining their financing decisions. The results suggest that firms with better ESG performance found to have less debt financing and easier access to equity capital from stock markets. However, the results did not show a significant impact of audit quality on this relationship. Sensitivity tests, such as alternate parameter estimation measures, techniques to address endogeneity issues (sysGMM), and lagged regressions, were conducted and did not change the key conclusions of the study.
Semi-simple actions of the Higman-Thompson groups $$T_n$$ on finite-dimensional CAT(0) spaces
Authors: Kato Motoko 
Published: July 2023

AbstractIn this paper, we study isometric actions on finite-dimensional CAT(0) spaces for the Higman–Thompson groups $$T_n$$

T
n

, which are generalizations of Thompson’s group T. It is known that every semi-simple action of T on a complete CAT(0) space of finite covering dimension has a global fixed point. After this result, we show that every semi-simple action of $$T_n$$

T
n

on a complete CAT(0) space of finite covering dimension has a global fixed point. In the proof, we regard $$T_n$$

T
n

as ring groups of homeomorphisms of $$S^1$$

S
1

introduced by Kim, Koberda and Lodha, and use general facts on these groups.
A General Model for Thermodynamic Properties of Fluid Mixtures Based on Helmholtz Energy Formulations for the Components. Virial Expansion and Reduction to van der Waals Mixing Rules
Authors: Hrubý Jan 
Published: July 2023

AbstractOver the recent decades, Helmholtz energy formulations became available for a broad range of fluids. These multiparameter equations of state (R. Span, Springer 2000) allow computation of thermodynamic properties essentially within the experimental errorbars. Corresponding states-based model by Lemmon and Tillner-Roth (Fluid Phase Equilib 165:1, 1999) enabled construction of Helmholtz energy formulations for mixtures. However, we show that this model generates a non-physical dependence of virial coefficients on composition, which can be strong when the components are dissimilar. We propose a new mixture model that overcomes this deficiency. It has two main ingredients: (i) Quadratic mixing of “Helmholtz volumities”. This quantity with units of molar volume is introduced as a ratio of the molar residual Helmholtz energy to a product of gas constant, thermodynamic temperature, and molar density. It reduces to the second virial coefficient in the zero-density limit. Helmholtz volumities are considered for components and “cross-components”, hypothetical fluids representing the binary interactions. (ii) Replacing the variables—reduced reciprocal temperatures and reduced densities—with temperature and density scaling functions. Different scaling functions can be used for different components and cross-components, thus providing a highly flexible framework for representing the properties of mixtures. The scaling functions must be expandable into Taylor series in terms of molar concentrations in the zero-density limit. For the proposed mixture model, we develop formulas for computing virial coefficients up to the fourth order. Furthermore, we show that when the proposed mixture model is applied to a cubic equation of state, the conventional van der Waals mixing rules can be retrieved. These findings allow to consider the new model as a viable alternative to the corresponding states method of modeling thermodynamic properties of fluid mixtures.
Are all ventilators for NIV performing the same? A bench analysis
Authors: Martínez-Castro Sara , Nacher Francisco Javier Belda , Bernabeu Jaume Puig , Domingo Marina B Soro , Navarro Carlos Delgado , Pons Héctor Ortega 
Published: July 2023

AbstractGlobal pandemic due to COVID-19 has increased the interest for ventilators´ use worldwide. New devices have been developed and older ones have undergone a renewed interest, but we lack robust evidence about performance of each ventilator to match appropriate device to a given patient and care environment. The aim of this bench study was to investigate the performance of six devices for noninvasive ventilation, and to compare them in terms of volume delivered, trigger response, pressurization capacity and synchronization in volume assisted controlled and pressure support ventilation. All ventilators were tested under thirty-six experimental conditions by using the lung model ASL5000® (IngMar Medical, Pittsburgh, PA). Two leak levels, two muscle inspiratory efforts and three mechanical patterns were combined for simulation. Trigger function was assessed by measurement of trigger-delay time. Pressurization capacity was evaluated as area under the pressure–time curve over the first 500 ms after inspiratory effort onset. Synchronization was evaluated by the asynchrony index and by incidence and type of asynchronies in each condition. All ventilators showed a good performance, even if pressurization capacity was worse than expected. Leak level did not affect their function. Differences were found during low muscle effort and obstructive pattern. In general, Philips Trilogy Evo/EV300 and Hamilton C3 showed the best results. NIV devices successfully compensate air leaks but still underperform with low muscle effort and obstructive lungs. Clinicians´ must have a clear understanding of the goals of NIV both for devices´ choice and set main parameters to achieve therapy success.
On the nature and structure of externalities
Authors: Paniagua Pablo , Rayamajhee Veeshan 
Published: July 2023

AbstractThis paper contributes to the literature on externalities and their classification by reconciling insights from transaction costs theory with James Buchanan’s and Elinor Ostrom’s analyses of property rights and institutional diversity. We critique the dominant Pigouvian analysis, which assumes only two forms of institutions—namely, governments and private markets—that can internalize externalities. We develop a new taxonomy of externalities that provides relevant conceptual space for a wide array of institutions that the market-versus-state dichotomy obscures. The proposed taxonomy considers two key classes of often-conflated attributes: (1) the scale of externalities, and (2) the assignability, enforceability, and tradability of property rights. This approach enriches the Coasean (transaction cost) perspective by allowing us to unbundle transaction costs in a manner that extends its applicability to nonmarket situations in which market-based transactions are either not permitted or technically infeasible. Thus, by integrating insights from two distinct Public Choice schools, we broaden the theory of externalities to not only encompass market exchanges but also to incorporate cases in which property rights are, and will remain, unclear. We conclude that institutional diversity can offer adaptable solutions to tackle medium- and large-scale externalities.
Vegetation responses to pathogen-induced tree loss: Swedish elm and ash forests revisited after 32 years
Authors: Brunet Jörg , Felton Adam , Hedwall Per-Ola 
Published: July 2023

AbstractInvasive fungal pathogens are an increasing problem globally and can cause strong effects on forest ecosystems. In this study, we contrast vegetation surveys in eutrophic elm (Ulmus glabra) and ash (Fraxinus excelsior) forests in southern Sweden, conducted just prior to the arrival of Dutch elm disease (DED) in 1989, and then again in 2021, several years after ash dieback (ADB) began. At the sample plot scale, species richness (α–diversity) of the upper tree layer strongly decreased from 1989 to 2021, and the mean cover of elm decreased from 27 to 1% and of ash from 29 to 13%. In the lower tree and shrub layers, elm and ash were replaced by other, mainly shade-tolerant, tree species. The cover and richness of the shrub layer increased in previously elm-dominated stands but not in ash-dominated stands. The extensive loss of canopy cover in elm stands caused a larger change in upper tree layer species composition and increased compositional variability (β-diversity) between plots when compared to the ash stands. The direction of the changes in tree layer composition between the surveys varied with soil moisture and nutrient availability. While beech increased in less eutrophic plots, more nutrient-rich plots changed toward hornbeam or small-leaved lime, and wetter plots turned toward alder and bird cherry. Hence, our results indicate increased compositional diversity and alternative successional pathways for community reorganization following DED and ADB. Future research will reveal if these pathways will later merge or further split.
Fascinating wonderful network: Rete mirabile of the maxillary artery in cats – minireview
Authors: Korim Filip , Kuricová Mária , Vdoviaková Katarína , Krešáková Lenka 
Published: July 2023

AbstractCats are one of the most common companion animals, and they differ from dogs in several important ways. Considering the central importance of anatomy in high-quality medicine, the treatment of the feline mandible, mostly during intraoral procedures requiring general anaesthesia, has many important features. In cats, the major artery of the brain is the maxillary artery that forms unique structure – the rete mirabile. The rete mirabile is a plexus like vascular structure that lies extracranially and communicates with brain arterial circle through the orbital fissure. The development of the brain vasculature is different in cats, and it includes obliteration mechanisms of the internal carotid artery. The course of the maxillary artery that forms the rete mirabile has a strong relationship to the angular process of the mandible. Emphasis should be placed on manipulation with the feline mandible, especially during open-mouth procedures, as mistakes can lead to blindness, deafness, and central neurological disorders due to compression of the maxillary artery by the angular process of the mandible. This paper focuses on the anatomy and function of the blood supply to the brain, which is very specific in domestic cats and other felids.
CIP-PODEROSA CROCANTE, CIP-PODEROSA POLLERA, and CIP-PODEROSA WATIA: New Potato Varieties for Family Farming with Resistance to Late Blight and High Quality for the Frying Industry
Authors: Gastelo Manuel , Pérez Willmer , Eyzaguirre Raul , Quispe Katherine , Sanabria Kimberlayn , Bastos Carolina , Otiniano Ronal , Pérez Juan M. , Mendoza Alejandro , Unda Trinidad , Andrade-Piedra Jorge 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Three new potato varieties: CIP-PODEROSA CROCANTE, CIP-PODEROSA POLLERA and CIP-PODEROSA WATIA were generated through traditional breeding as healthy and sustainable potato varieties, as compared with popular Peruvian potato varieties INIA 303-CANCHAN and UNICA, to improve living standards of small and medium scale potato producers in Peru and other developing countries. CIP-PODEROSA CROCANTE has high horizontal resistance to late blight (LB), high tuber yield, excellent quality for frying in French fries, red skin, oval tuber shape, cream flesh and superficial eyes, with crispy texture, adapted from 0 to 3700 m above sea level (m.a.s.l.); CIP-PODEROSA POLLERA has high horizontal resistance to LB, yellow skin with blue around the superficial eyes, elongated oval tuber shape, yellow flesh, it is suited to accompany grilled chicken (“Pollo a la brasa”) a typical dish in Peru, adapted from 2000 to 3700 m.a.s.l.; and CIP-PODEROSA WATIA, which in addition to resistance to LB and quality for frying, has excellent aptitude for baking, superficial eyes, light red skin, cream flesh, and is adapted from 0 to 3700 m.a.s.l. These varieties were released in 2022 and officially registered in the national registry of commercial varieties of Peru in 2023. They have low content of glycoalkaloids and acrylamides, require lower use of fungicides, and therefore present higher economic profitability. These varieties can also be used in other countries as parental material in genetic improvement programs or evaluated under regional environments to be registered as new varieties.
Marine Antimicrobial Peptide Epinecidin-1 Inhibits Proliferation Induced by Lipoteichoic acid and Causes cell Death in non-small cell lung cancer Cells via Mitochondria Damage
Authors: Yu Hsin-Hsien , Wu Luo-Yun , Hsu Pei-Ling , Lee Chu-Wan , Su Bor-Chyuan 
Published: July 2023

AbstractNon-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is among the deadliest cancers worldwide. Despite the recent introduction of several new therapeutic approaches for the disease, improvements in overall survival and progression-free survival have been minimal. Conventional treatments for NSCLC include surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Except for surgery, these treatments can impair a patient’s immune system, leaving them susceptible to bacterial infections. As such, Staphylococcus aureus infections are commonly seen in NSCLC patients receiving chemotherapy, and a major constituent of the S. aureus cell surface, lipoteichoic acid (LTA), is thought to stimulate NSCLC cancer cell proliferation. Thus, inhibition of LTA-mediated cell proliferation might be a useful strategy for treating NSCLC. Epinecidin-1 (EPI), a marine antimicrobial peptide, exhibits broad-spectrum antibacterial activity, and it also displays anti-cancer activity in glioblastoma and synovial sarcoma cells. Furthermore, EPI has been shown to inhibit LTA-induced inflammatory responses in murine macrophages. Nevertheless, the anti-cancer and anti-LTA activities of EPI and the underlying mechanisms of these effects have not been fully tested in the context of NSCLC. In the present study, we demonstrate that EPI suppresses LTA-enhanced proliferation of NSCLC cells by neutralizing LTA and blocking its effects on toll-like receptor 2 and interleukin-8. Moreover, we show that EPI induces necrotic cell death via mitochondrial damage, elevated reactive oxygen species levels, and disrupted redox balance. Collectively, our results reveal dual anti-cancer activities of EPI in NSCLC, as the peptide not only directly kills cancer cells but it also blocks LTA-mediated enhancement of cell proliferation.
Dynamic intrafractional position monitoring with implanted fiducial markers for enhanced accuracy in radiotherapy of prostate cancer
Authors: Mangesius Julian , Seppi Thomas , Ibrahim Ramine , Fleischmann Katrin , Ginestet Angela , Vorbach Samuel , Hart Tilmann , Pointner Martin , Mangesius Stephanie , Ganswindt Ute 
Published: July 2023

AbstractIntroduction: Recent advances in the radiation therapy of prostate cancer have brought a shift toward moderate- and ultra-hypofractionated treatment schedules. Reducing safety margins can broaden the therapeutic window in stereotactic treatments and alleviate concerns for toxicity in high dose-per-fraction treatment schedules. Management of intrafractional motion is a necessity for stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT). It can be achieved by performing intrafractional image guidance and position corrections. We evaluate the suitability of such a novel prostate motion management system and its potential benefit for treatment accuracy. Methods: Intrafractional IGRT was performed for 22 patients during 149 treatment sessions using repeated orthogonal kV-XR imaging of implanted fiducial markers with the ExacTrac Dynamic (EXTD) system. Position measurements were taken four times during each arc of the applied volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT). Position correction was performed if translational deviation exceeded 2 mm in any direction. Results: Of 677 single EXTD measurements, 20.6% exceeded the predefined threshold of 2 mm 3D deviation. Without intrafractional corrections, 39.4% of all individual measurements would exceed the threshold. The 3D accuracy could thus significantly be improved, reducing mean 3D shifts from 1.97 (± 1.44) mm to 1.39 (± 1.01) mm by performing intrafractional IGRT. In total, 34% of all treatment sessions required correction of intrafractional position shifts. Conclusion: Monitoring of prostate motion using repeated intrafractional orthogonal kV-X-ray-based position measurements of implanted fiducial markers proved to be a reliable method to improve precision of stereotactic irradiations of the prostate. It can prevent unacceptable translation deviations in one third of all sessions.