bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
B2-Tree: Page-Based String Indexing in Concurrent Environments
Authors: Schmeißer Josef , Schüle Maximilian E. , Leis Viktor , Neumann Thomas , Kemper Alfons 
Published: February 2022

AbstractRecently proposed index structures, that combine trie-based and comparison-based search mechanisms, considerably improve retrieval throughput for in-memory database systems. However, most of these index structures allocate small memory chunks when required. This stands in contrast to block-based index structures, that are necessary for disk-accesses of beyond main-memory database systems such as Umbra. We therefore present the B2-tree. The outer structure is identical to that of an ordinary B+-tree. It still stores elements in a dense array in sorted order, enabling efficient range scan operations. However, B2-tree is composed of multiple trees, each page integrates another trie-based search tree, which is used to determine a small memory region where a sought entry may be found. An embedded tree thereby consists of decision nodes, which operate on a single byte at a time, and span nodes, which are used to store common prefixes. This architecture usually accesses fewer cache lines than a vanilla B+-tree as shown in our performance evaluation. As a result, the B2-tree answers point queries considerably faster. Concurrent access to B2-tree pages are managed by an optimistic locking protocol which results in high utilization of the available hardware resources. Our evaluation of read-write workloads attests more than competitive performance for the B2-tree compared to a traditional B+-tree.
Groundwater Exploitation and Illegal Behaviors in a Differential Game
Authors: Biancardi Marta , Iannucci Gianluca , Villani Giovanni 
Published: February 2022

AbstractThis paper studies groundwater management through a leader–follower differential game between a water agency and farmers. The access to the common pool is not free and farmers have to pay a water tax to withdraw. To save this cost, we assume that farmers may not declare all the water pumped and face the risk of being sanctioned. The water agency, on the other hand, knows that unauthorized water extraction may occur and chooses the water tax that maximizes only the legal social welfare. The value of the farmers’ evasion share is unknown ex-ante by the water agency. The game is solved using feedback Nash solution. To understand how the water agency may counter illegal behaviors, we perform numerical simulations based on the Western La Mancha (Spain) aquifer data. It emerges that the optimal path of the water table is always above the minimum level, although it is sensitive to the level of the ecosystem costs. Moreover, increasing the administrative sanction reduces the unauthorized water extraction and raises the social welfare.
Mining Resource Corridor development in Nigeria: critical considerations and actions for a diversified and sustainable economic future
Authors: Azubuike Smith I. , Nakanwagi Susan , Pinto Jaqueline 
Published: February 2022

AbstractThe low crude oil prices in 2019 add momentum to Nigeria’s need for economic diversification as its foreign earnings come primarily from crude oil sales. As a result, Nigeria is seeking to explore other economic potentials, such as developing a Mining Resource Corridor (MRC) to reduce poverty and assist the country’s sustained growth and development. MRCs catalyse mineral extraction, transportation, processing, and infrastructural development and integrate other sectors of the economy, thus, creating jobs and promoting economic diversification and inclusive growth. However, achieving this requires drawing up an articulated delivery mechanism through a framework strategic implementation plan to attain a strategic diversification away from hydrocarbons to minerals. This article takes an applied research approach to examine the critical considerations and actions that Nigeria should take in developing an MRC to ensure a diverse and sustainable economic future. Additionally, it discusses the lessons Nigeria can learn from two corridors in Mozambique. This study notes that the success of a MRC is a function of, among other things, a skilled and adequately strengthened institution, enabling infrastructure and the participation of communities in the decision-making process of the corridor development. It also includes the support of all levels of government and possible assistance from development partners and donor agencies such as the World Bank.
Tackling multiple bacterial diseases of Solanaceae with a handful of immune receptors
Authors: Kim Boyoung , Choi Jihyun , Segonzac Cécile 
Published: February 2022

AbstractEvery year, despite the use of chemicals, significant crop loss is caused by pathogenic microbes. Plant innate resistance to pathogens depends on two sets of genetically encoded immune receptors that sense invaders and trigger signaling cascades leading to reinforcement of physical barriers and production of various antimicrobial compounds. In the past 30 years, the molecular cloning and characterization of plant immune receptors have deepened our understanding of the plant immune system and more importantly, have provided means to improve crop protection against devastating pathogens. Here, we review the molecular characterization of selected immune receptors that can detect multiple species of bacterial pathogens through an expanded recognition range, or through the detection of conserved pathogen activities or host targets. These recent structural and molecular insights about the activation of immune receptors provide the necessary framework to design their concomitant deployment in crops, in order to lower selective pressure on pathogen populations and prevent evasion from recognition. Hence, these few immune receptors emerge as high potential genetic resources to provide durable and environmentally safe protection against important bacterial diseases of solanaceous crops.
Approximation by Convolution Polyanalytic Operators in the Complex and Quaternionic Compact Unit Balls
Authors: Gal Sorin G. , Sabadini Irene 
Published: February 2022

AbstractIn this paper, by using the convolution method, we obtain quantitative results in terms of various moduli of smoothness for approximation of polyanalytic functions by polyanalytic polynomials in the complex unit disc. Then, by introducing the polyanalytic Gauss–Weierstrass operators of a complex variable, we prove that they form a contraction semigroup on the space of polyanalytic functions defined on the compact unit disk. The quantitative approximation results in terms of moduli of smoothness are then extended to the case of slicep-polyanalytic functions on the quaternionic unit ball. Moreover, we show that also in the quaternionic case the Gauss–Weierstrass operators of a quaternionic variable form a contraction semigroup on the space of polyanalytic functions defined on the compact unit ball.
Fabrication System for Large-Area Seamless Nanopatterned Cylinder Mold Using the Spiral Laser Interference Exposure Method
Authors: Ma Yong-Won , Park Jun Han , Lee Sung Jae , Lee Jeonghoon , Cho Suchan , Shin Bo Sung 
Published: February 2022

AbstractWith the advancement in the field of nanotechnology, nanopatterning finds extensive application not only in high value-added products but also in inexpensive products. In addition, the technology required for the mass production of inexpensive products, such as the continuous roll-to-roll (R2R) process, is rapidly emerging. Extensive research has been conducted on the manufacture of submicron- and nano- molds. In this study, we have proposed a laser interference exposure for fabricating nanopatterned cylindrical molds that can be used in continuous roll-to-roll patterning. Additionally, we have demonstrated spiral exposure process to fabricate a seamless patterning on a cylinder (length of 300 mm and diameter of 100 mm) using a prism. The pattern was transferred to the flat mold using UV resin and measured using a field emission scanning electron microscope; the pattern was measured to have a uniform with nano pattern line width (75 nm) and a sub-micron period (286 nm). It was observed that the proposed method for fabrication of the roll mold using laser interference lithography is a fast and reliable seamless patterning.
Ni Flower/MXene-Melamine Foam Derived 3D Magnetic/Conductive Networks for Ultra-Efficient Microwave Absorption and Infrared Stealth
Authors: Cheng Haoran , Pan Yamin , Wang Xin , Liu Chuntai , Shen Changyu , Schubert Dirk W. , Guo Zhanhu , Liu Xianhu 
Published: February 2022

AbstractThe development of multifunctional and efficient electromagnetic wave absorbing materials is a challenging research hotspot. Here, the magnetized Ni flower/MXene hybrids are successfully assembled on the surface of melamine foam (MF) through electrostatic self-assembly and dip-coating adsorption process, realizing the integration of microwave absorption, infrared stealth, and flame retardant. Remarkably, the Ni/MXene-MF achieves a minimum reflection loss (RLmin) of − 62.7 dB with a corresponding effective absorption bandwidth (EAB) of 6.24 GHz at 2 mm and an EAB of 6.88 GHz at 1.8 mm. Strong electromagnetic wave absorption is attributed to the three-dimensional magnetic/conductive networks, which provided excellent impedance matching, dielectric loss, magnetic loss, interface polarization, and multiple attenuations. In addition, the Ni/MXene-MF endows low density, excellent heat insulation, infrared stealth, and flame-retardant functions. This work provided a new development strategy for the design of multifunctional and efficient electromagnetic wave absorbing materials.
Cohort Profile: The Zurich Project on the Social Development from Childhood to Adulthood (z-proso)
Authors: Ribeaud Denis , Murray Aja , Shanahan Lilly , Shanahan Michael J. , Eisner Manuel 
Published: February 2022

AbstractThe Zurich Project on the Social Development from Childhood to Adulthood (z-proso) began in 2004 in response to the need for a better evidence base to support optimal child social development and prevent crime and violence. Since then, the study has tracked the development of a diverse sample of youths (N = 1,675 in the target sample; ~50% female) from age 7 (n = 1,360) to age 20 (n = 1,180), with primary data collection waves at ages 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 15, 17, and 20. The study uses a multi-method, multi-informant design that combines teacher, youth, and parent reports with observational and behavioural measures, biosampling, functional imaging, and ecological momentary assessment. Analyses of the data have contributed important evidence to a diversity of topics in child and adolescent development, illuminating the developmental roots of crime and aggression, the impacts of exposure to different forms and combinations of victimisation, and trajectories of mental health and neurodevelopmental symptoms.
AFM Measurements and Tip Characterization of Nanoparticles with Different Shapes
Authors: Bellotti Roberto , Picotto Gian Bartolo , Ribotta Luigi 
Published: February 2022

AbstractUnambiguous identification of the measurement methodologies is fundamental to reduce the uncertainty and support traceability of particle shape and size at the nanoscale. In this work, the critical aspects in atomic force microscopy measurements, that is, drawbacks on sample preparation, instrumental parameters, image pre-processing, size reconstruction, and tip enlargement, are discussed in reference to quantitative dimensional measurements on different kinds of nanoparticles (inorganic and biological) with different shapes (spherical, cylindrical, complex geometry). Once the cross-section profile is extracted, top-height measurements on isolated nanoparticles of any shape can be achieved with sub-nanometer accuracy. Lateral resolution is affected by the pixel size and shape of the probe, causing dilation in the atomic force microscopy image. For the reconstruction of critical sizes of inorganic non-spherical nanoparticles, a geometric approach that considers the nominal shape because of the synthesis conditions is presented and discussed.
Effect of Antibacterial Enoxacin on the Properties of Injectable Nano-hydroxyapatite/Polyurethane Cement for Bone Repairing
Authors: Zhang Jinzheng , Lei Xiaoyu , Tang Jiajing , Chen Jie , Zhao Qing , Fang Wei , Zhang Yinglong , Li Yubao , Zuo Yi 
Published: February 2022

AbstractBiomaterial-associated infection (BAI) is a kind of serious post-operative complication in orthopaedic surgery. Antibiotic-loaded bone cement shines a light on BAI prevention for convenient manipulation and complex filling. To this aim, we designed an antibacterial bone cement based on Nano-hydroxyapatite/Polyurethane (PUHA) loading with antibiotic Enoxacin (EN). The distinct shear-thinning behavior of the prepolymers was observed, indicating a good injectability. The PUHA bone cement possessed a suitable curing speed, and the addition of EN might slightly expedite the curing process and enhance the mechanical properties. The EN release profile indicated that the EN-loaded bone cement could reach the minimum inhibitory concentration in 2 h, and sustainedly released EN for almost 8 days, exhibiting an antibacterial delivery potential. Antibacterial test further confirmed the antibacterial ability of EN-loaded bone cement is in a dose-dependent manner. However, the osteogenic performance of drug-loaded bone cement with high dosage is not as good as antibacterial activity. When the EN concentration of antibacterial cement was lower than 32 μg⋅mL−1, the proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of rat mesenchymal stem cells could be significantly promoted. Overall, this study verified the potential of the EN-loaded PUHA bone cement in anti-infection and osteogenesis for bone repairing.
Public sector AI transparency standard: UK Government seeks to lead by example
Authors: Kingsman Nigel , Kazim Emre , Chaudhry Ali , Hilliard Airlie , Koshiyama Adriano , Polle Roseline , Pavey Giles , Mohammed Umar 
Published: February 2022

AbstractIn releasing the Algorithmic Transparency Standard, the UK government has reiterated its commitment to greater algorithmic transparency in the public sector. The Standard signals that the UK government is both pushing forward with the AI standards agenda and ensuring that those standards benefit from empirical practitioner-led experience, enabling coherent, widespread adoption. The two-tier approach of the Algorithmic Transparency Standard encourages transparency inclusivity across distinct audiences, facilitating trust across algorithm stakeholders. Moreover, it can be understood that implementation of the Standard within the UK’s public sector will inform standards more widely, influencing best practice in the private sector. This article provides a summary and commentary of the text.
Eigenvalues of a Class of Eigenparameter Dependent Third-Order Differential Operators
Authors: Bai Yulin , Wang Wanyi , Li Kun , Zheng Zhaowen 
Published: February 2022

AbstractThe present paper deals with a class of third-order differential operators with eigenparameter dependent boundary conditions. The continuity of eigenvalues concerning a given parameter is proved. Moreover, the derivative formulas of eigenvalues concerning the parameters, in particular, the eigenparameter dependent boundary condition matrix, are given.
Frequency and Amplitude Identification of Weak Signal Based on the Limit System of Smooth and Discontinuous Oscillator
Authors: Li Haiping , Tian Ruilan , Zhang Xiaolong , Yang Xinwei 
Published: February 2022

AbstractIn this paper, a new method is proposed to identify the frequency and amplitude of weak signals by using a non-smooth system. The variable scale limit system of smooth and discontinuous (SD) oscillator without considering the phase is adopted as the identification system. By using the non-smooth stochastic subharmonic-like Melnikov method, an analytical expression of chaotic threshold under Gaussian white noise is given. Based on the phase diagram and Poincaré section diagram, the influence of noise intensity on the recognition system is studied. According to the non-smooth variable scale-convex-peak frequency identification method, the frequency of the signal to be detected can be accurately identified. Using the numerical simulation, the amplitude of the signal to be measured is identified according to the amplitude bifurcation diagram of the reference signal. The optimal value range of the parameters of the identification system is determined. Through an example of early fault of wheelset bearing of high-speed train, the frequency and amplitude of the early weak fault signal can be identified and the fault location can be determined, which verifies the effectiveness of the above method. The results show that the non-smooth system can identify the frequency and amplitude of the weak signal submerged in strong noise, and it has a wider application and higher accuracy than the continuous system.
Evaluation of prevalance and risk factors for bloodstream infection in severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients
Authors: Erbay Kubra , Ozger Hasan Selcuk , Guzel Tunccan Ozlem , Gaygısız Ümmügülsüm , Buyukkoruk Merve , Sultanova Fidan , Yıldız Mehmet , Boyacı Dündar Nazlıhan , Aydoğdu Müge , Bozdayi Gulendam , Dizbay Murat 
Published: February 2022

Abstract

Objectives:
In this study, we sought to determine the prevalence of bloodstream infection (BSI) in severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients and to determine the risk factors of BSI in critical COVID-19 patients.

Design:
Retrospective, descriptive study between March 2020 and January 2021.

Setting:
An 1,007-bed university hospital.

Participants:
Patients who were hospitalized due to severe COVID-19 disease and had an aerobic blood culture taken at least once during hospitalization

Methods:
Case definitions were made according to National Institutes of Health clinical definitions. According to the blood culture results, the patients were grouped as with and without BSIs, and compared for BSIs risk factors.

Results:
In total, 195 patients were included in the study. Blood culture positivity was detected in 76 (39.0%) of 196 patients. Excluding blood culture positivity considered as contamination, the prevalence of BSI in all severe COVID-19 cases was 18.5% (n = 36). In intensive care unit patients the prevalence of BSI was 30.6% (n = 26). In multivariate analyses, central venous catheter (odds ratio [OR], 8.17; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.46–27.1; P < .01) and hospitalization in the multibed intensive care unit (OR, 4.28; 95% CI, 1.28–14.3; P < .01) were risk factors associated with the acquisition of BSI.

Conclusion:
The prevalence of BSI in COVID-19 patients is particularly high in critically ill patients. The central venous catheter and multibed intensive care follow-up are risk factors for BSI. BSIs can be reduced by increasing compliance to infection control measures and central venous catheter insertion-care procedures. The use of single-bed intensive care units where compliance can be achieved more effectively is important for the prevention of BSIs.
Defining success in open source hardware development projects: a survey of practitioners
Authors: Antoniou Rafaella , Bonvoisin Jérémy , Hsing Pen-Yuan , Dekoninck Elies , Defazio Daniela 
Published: February 2022

Abstract
Recent years have seen the rise of citizens as contributors to hardware product creation. This trend has increased attention to open source hardware (OSH): a phenomenon that extends the intellectual property management and development practices in open source software (OSS) into the design of physical objects. OSH projects are different from OSS projects due to product type, and distinct from traditional closed source new product development (NPD) ones due to their openness. These differences challenge the degree of applicability of existing project success definitions in the OSH context. To investigate project success in OSH, we conducted a qualitative survey with practitioners. We report characteristics of successful OSH projects through three identified themes: (a) value creation – the big-picture impact, (b) quality of output – the quality of the hardware and accompanying documentation and (c) project process – activities that contribute to success. We contextualise by comparing OSH with selected literature on the success of OSS and NPD project management. While our study confirms a similarity between OSS and OSH in defining project success, it also highlights themes that are uniquely important to the latter. These findings are helpful for OSH development practice and could provide lessons for OSS development and closed source NPD.
Covering action on Conley index theory
Authors: LIMA D. V. S. , R. DA SILVEIRA M. , VIEIRA E. R. 
Published: February 2022

AbstractIn this paper we apply Conley index theory in a covering space of an invariant set S, possibly not isolated, in order to describe the dynamics in S. More specifically, we consider the action of the covering translation group in order to define a topological separation of S which distinguishes the connections between the Morse sets within a Morse decomposition of S. The theory developed herein generalizes the classical connection matrix theory, since one obtains enriched information on the connection maps for non-isolated invariant sets, as well as for isolated invariant sets. Moreover, in the case of an infinite cyclic covering induced by a circle-valued Morse function, one proves that the Novikov differential of f is a particular case of the p-connection matrix defined herein.
Embedding codimension of the space of arcs
Authors: Chiu Christopher , de Fernex Tommaso , Docampo Roi 
Published: February 2022

Abstract
We introduce a notion of embedding codimension of an arbitrary local ring, establish some general properties and study in detail the case of arc spaces of schemes of finite type over a field. Viewing the embedding codimension as a measure of singularities, our main result can be interpreted as saying that the singularities of the arc space are maximal at the arcs that are fully embedded in the singular locus of the underlying scheme, and progressively improve as we move away from said locus. As an application, we complement a theorem of Drinfeld, Grinberg and Kazhdan on formal neighbourhoods in arc spaces by providing a converse to their theorem, an optimal bound for the embedding codimension of the formal model appearing in the statement, a precise formula for the embedding dimension of the model constructed in Drinfeld’s proof and a geometric meaningful way of realising the decomposition stated in the theorem.