bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Scaling Exponents of Time Series Data: A Machine Learning Approach
Authors: Raubitzek Sebastian , Corpaci Luiza , Mallinger Kevin , Hofer Rebecca
Published: November 2023

In this study, we present a novel approach to estimate the Hurst exponent of time series data using a variety of machine learning algorithms. The Hurst exponent is a crucial parameter in characterizing long-range dependence in time series, and traditional methods such as Rescaled Range (R/S) analysis and Detrended Fluctuation Analysis (DFA) have been widely used for its estimation. However, these methods have certain limitations, which we sought to address by modifying the R/S approach to distinguish between fractional Lévy and fractional Brownian motion, and by demonstrating the inadequacy of DFA and similar methods for data that resembles fractional Lévy motion. This inspired us to utilize machine learning techniques to improve the estimation process. In an unprecedented step, we train various machine learning models, including LightGBM, MLP, and AdaBoost, on synthetic data generated from random walks, namely fractional Brownian motion and fractional Lévy motion, where the ground truth Hurst exponent is known. Meaning that we can initialize and create these stochastic processes with a scaling Hurst/scaling exponent which, is then used as the ground truth for training. Furthermore, we perform the continuous estimation of the scaling exponent directly from the time series, without resorting to the calculation of the power spectrum or other sophisticated preprocessing steps, as done in past approaches. Our experiments reveal that the machine learning-based estimators outperform traditional R/S analysis and DFA methods in estimating the Hurst exponent, particularly for data akin to fractional Lévy motion. Validating our approach on real-world financial data, we observe a divergence between the estimated Hurst/scaling exponents and results reported in the literature. Nevertheless, the confirmation provided by known ground truths reinforces the superiority of our approach in terms of accuracy. This work highlights the potential of machine learning algorithms for accurately estimating the Hurst exponent, paving new paths for time series analysis. By marrying traditional finance methods with the capabilities of machine learning, our study provides a novel contribution towards the future of time series data analysis.
Fuzzy Logic, Neural Network and ANFIS in Delegation of Standard Concrete Beam Calculations
Authors: Baghdadi Abtin , Babovic Neira , Kloft Harald
Published: November 2023

Machine Learning (ML) has proved its capabilities in different scientific and industrial fields, but it needs to be further investigated in the construction industry for practical utilization. One of the use cases of ML is delegating the structural calculation process. In this study, to discuss ML’s capabilities in performing the work of a structural designer, calculations of concrete sections based on ACI (American Concrete Institute) as a case study were selected. At first, all manual design steps and standard considerations for a concrete beam section were coded parametrically in MATLAB. After comparing with structural design references to prove the accuracy of codes in calculating shear and bending capacities, the parametric results were used as initial data (Look−up table) for training the ML operators. Regarding different types of ML techniques and as a comparison between them, in the next steps, all essential codes for Fuzzy Logic (FL), Neural Network (NN) and Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS) were coded in the same platform. The performance of the three coded ML operators to replace (delegate) standard calculations compared to direct calculations was individually investigated and displayed through parametric examples. After initial examples, the influences of the number of parameters and size of the Look−up table on the accuracy of each operator were discussed. The study concluded that although all three operators can delegate the standard calculation, the precision of the results differs considerably. In case of the desirable size of the Look−up table, ANFIS operators can represent the standard calculations with a different number of parameters and entirely high precision.
Social Support and Depression among Stroke Patients: A Topical Review
Authors: Zhou Haoyu , Kulick Erin R.
Published: November 2023

Research has shown a protective association between social support and depression, depression among stroke patients, and health impacts of depression. Yet not much is known on the effect of social support on depression among stroke patients. This review aims to summarize the current research examining the association between social support and depression among stroke patients. A literature search was performed in PubMed to find original peer-reviewed journal articles from 2016 to Mar. 12, 2023 that examined the association between social support and depression among stroke patients. The search terms were depression and "social support" and stroke, which lead to 172 articles. After abstract review, seven observational studies that studied the target association among stroke patients were selected. One additional study was found using PsycINFO as a complementary source with the same search strategy and criteria. Overall, a negative association was found between social support and depression among stroke patients in seven studies, with more social support leading to lower rates of depression post-stroke. One study found that social support was positively related with depression, but the result was nonsignificant. Overall, the results of recent studies suggest that social support is negatively associated with depression among stroke patients. In most studies, this association was statistically significant. The findings suggest the importance of improving social support perceived by stroke patients in the prevention of depression after the occurrence of stroke.
Certain Results on Subclasses of Analytic and Bi-Univalent Functions Associated with Coefficients Estimates and Quasi-Subordination
Authors: Badiwi Elaf Ibrahim , Atshan Waggas Galib , Alkiffai Ameera N. , Lupas Alina Alb
Published: November 2023

The purpose of the present paper is to introduce and investigate new subclasses of analytic function class of bi univalent function defined in open unit disk connected with a linear q-convolution operator, which are associated with the quasi-subordination. We find coefficients estimate |h_2 |,|h_3 | for functions in these subclasses. Several known and new consequences of these results are also pointed out.
New Generation Sustainable Technologies for Soilless Vegetable Production
Authors: Fuentes-Peñailillo Fernando , Gutter Karen , Vega Ricardo , Silva Gilda Carrasco
Published: November 2023

This review article conducts an in-depth analysis of the role of next-generation technologies in soilless vegetable production, highlighting their groundbreaking potential to revolutionize yield, efficiency, and sustainability. These technologies, such as AI-driven monitoring systems and precision farming methods, offer unparalleled accuracy in monitoring critical variables like nutrient concentrations and pH levels. However, the paper also addresses the multifaceted challenges that hinder the widespread adoption of these technologies. The high initial investment costs pose a significant barrier, particularly for small and medium-scale farmers, thereby risking the creation of a technological divide in the industry. Additionally, the technical complexity of these systems demands specialized expertise, potentially exacerbating knowledge gaps among farmers. Ethical considerations are scrutinized, including data privacy concerns and potential job displacement due to automation. Regulatory challenges, such as international trade regulations and policy frameworks, are discussed as they may need revision to accommodate these new technologies. The paper concludes by emphasizing that while these sustainable technologies offer transformative benefits, their potential for broad adoption is constrained by a complex interplay of financial, technical, ethical, regulatory, and social factors. Comprehensive, multi-faceted solutions are therefore essential for their ethical and equitable implementation.
Techno-economic evaluation of marine fishing operations in Andhra Pradesh, southern India
Authors: Raju S. S. , Ghosh Shubhadeep , Salim Shyam S. , Pattnaik Phalguni , Muktha M. , Narayanakumar R.
Published: November 2023

The marine fish landings in Andhra Pradesh during 2020 was estimated at 1.95 lakh t, contributing 7.2% of the total marine fish landings in the country. The techno-economic evaluation of different fishing methods in Andhra Pradesh was carried out for assessing the economic efficiency. The boat and net combinations throughout the year have seen spectacular changes because of enormous expense on fishing, time taken for fishing and prefunding of activities and support. Fuel accounted for the major share (75.8%) in operational costs of mechanised crafts. In motorised crafts, the contribution of fuel to operational costs ranged from 11.9 to 33.2%. Crew wages, which formed only 12.8% of the operational costs in mechanised crafts, contributed the major share (67.8 to 84.2%) in motorised crafts. In non-motorised crafts, almost the entire operational cost was towards crew wages. Net Profit Margin and Return on Investment was 35.2 and 2.16% for mechanised fishing operations, 37.5 to 44.3% and 0.91 to 2.77 for motorised fishing operations and 40.7 to 44.7% and 3.78 to 5.17 for non-motorised fishing operations, indicating non-motorised fishing operations to be the most economically efficient method. Capital productivity and Input-Output Ratio was 0.6 and 0.5 for mechanised fishing operations, 0.54 to 0.60 and 0.09 to 0.19 for motorised fishing operations and 0.54 to 0.59 and close to nil for non-motorised fishing operations. The Gross Value Added (GVA) of all fishing operations worked out to about 50% of the Gross Revenue, which is a significant contribution to the economy. The major fishery resources landed in various fishing operations were penaeid shrimps, sardines, Indian mackerel, ribbonfishes, catfishes, carangids and anchovies. In fishing tasks, the expanded expense of fishing per trip, the diminished landings and ensuing decrease in the gross returns per trip have been cited by the fishers as significant factors influencing the financial returns from various fishing methods.Keywords: Capital productivity, Costs, Gross value added, Input-output ratio, Labour productivity, Returns
Assessment of abiotic factors and planktonic structure of Baur and Haripura reservoirs, Uttarakhand, India
Authors: Negi Deepti , Ram Raj Narayan , Mishra Ashutosh
Published: November 2023

The study investigated the variation in physico-chemical parameters and planktonic community structure (biotic) of two reservoirs viz. Baur and Haripura located in Tarai region of Uttarakhand from September 2018 to April 2019. The reservoirs hold tremendous potential for inland fisheries development and offer ample scope for fish yield optimisation through adoption of suitable management norms. Variations have been recorded in different water quality parameters viz. temperature (20.00-32.650 C), pH (7.25-8.4), dissolved oxygen (4.35-6.35 mg l-1) and total dissolved solids (159.5-254.0 mg l-1) which shows a positive correlation (except temperature) with phytoplankton and zooplankton production in the selected reservoirs. A total of 29 and 23 phytoplankton genera were observed in Baur and Haripura reservoirs, respectively belonging to Bacillariophyceae (49% in Haripura, 46% in Baur), Chlorophyceae (44% in Baur, 31% in Haripura), Cyanophyceae (9% in Haripura, 4% in Baur), Euglinophyceae (10% in Haripura, 5% in Baur) and Dinophyceae (1% in each) groups. The density of phytoplankton population was found highest in the month of April and lowest during September. A total of 14 zooplankton genera belonging to 3 classes were recorded from both the reservoirs with class Cladocera occupying the major proportion of total zooplankton recorded. A surge in the zooplanktonic community was witnessed in November with minimum density in the month of September. The reservoir Baur observed a higher phytoplankton and zooplankton density as compared to Haripura, pointing towards a more productive ecosystem.Keywords: Phytoplankton, Seasonal abundance, Water quality, Zooplankton
Perception of fishers about livelihood developmental interventions by various GOs and NGOs in Indian Sundarbans: A comparative study
Authors: Ghosh Amitava , Dana S. S. , Sharma Arpita , Sahu P. K. , Basu D. , Goswami R.
Published: November 2023

The Sundarbans, an important biodiversity hotspot of India, is home to many fishers and owing to its ecological importance, Government Organisations (GOs) and Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) are involved in fisheries development. In the present study, interventions done by selected GOs and NGOs and how these have brought a change in the fishersâ€™ livelihood were assessed using the impact matrix of organisations. Information was collected from 300 respondents from 6 selected blocks employing interview schedule. Respondents were asked to rate their perception of how these interventions brought a change in livelihood assets using a five-point scale. Impact scores were calculated using the weighted average technique and revealed impacts on livelihood improvements. Mann-Whitney U-test was applied to know if there was a difference in perception towards interventions done by GOs and NGOs. The study revealed that interventions like bundh building/renovation, demonstration, housing/road/culvert construction, laboratory cum testing facilities and pond excavation scored higher as part of overall perception whereas, SHGs development accrued highest total score for both GOs and NGOs accumulating five capitals of livelihood. Impact matrix exposed that out of five capitals of livelihood, financial capital had a relatively higher score.Keywords: Fisheries, Government organisations, Livelihood, Non-Governmental organisations, Sundarbans
Identifying training needs in inland fisheries management for the fishers in the state of Bihar, eastern India
Authors: Bhattacharyya Sangeeta , Roy Aparna , Som Sukanya , Saha Avishek , Das B. K. , Das A. K.
Published: November 2023

The training needs of 450 fish farmers/ fishermen from 15 randomly selected districts of Bihar (30 trainees from each district) who received training from ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute (ICAR-CIFRI), Barrackpore, India were analysed in this study. For training need assessment (TNA), a close ended interview schedule with twenty topics was developed by ICAR-CIFRI keeping in mind the type of fisheries and water resources existing in Bihar. The trainees were asked to respond in a three point continuum scale based on the importance of the topic to them. Composite fish culture ranked highest followed by fish disease control, fish feed preparation and soil and water chemistry. Prawn culture and induced breeding of Magur were perceived as least required topics by the trainees. Cumulative cube root frequency (CCRF) method was used to classify farmers based on training needs and it was found that majority (49%) of the respondents were having medium level of training needs (0.43-0.66). Trainees with higher level of education had significant interest to know about the Government schemes related to fisheries. Trainees with non-farm related enterprises as primary/secondary occupations were highly inclined towards learning economic evaluation and hatchery management, whereas trainees with farm related enterprises as primary/secondary occupations were interested in integrated fish farming. It was also found that the fishers of different districts had varied training needs but overall â€˜high training needâ€™ was observed in composite fish culture and pond construction. Traineesâ€™ expectations from the trainings were improvement in income, reduction in migration and debt clearance. Hence it could be inferred that need based skill development programmes are essential to ensure success of any human resource development (HRD) programme.Keywords: Bihar, Fishers, Inland fisheries management, Socio-economic background, Training need assessment
Fishery and biology of cutlass fishes from Indian seas with special reference to the largehead hairtail Trichiurus lepturus Linnaeus, 1758 - A review
Authors: Udupa K. S. , U. Ganga  , Sobhana K. S.
Published: November 2023

Cutlass fishes of the family Trichiuridae form an important group in the commercial fishery in India, contributing >7% to the pelagic marine fish landings of the country during 2018-19. The largehead hairtail Trichiurus lepturus Linnaeus, 1758 forms a significant component of marine fish landings in India and several studies have reported its length-weight relationship, growth patterns, sex ratio, population parameters and stock status. Age and growth of T. lepturus were reported by the authors mostly using inverse interpolation of von Bertalanffy growth equation and ageing using hard parts is desirable to validate these observations. The present review highlights the importance of applying uniform methodologies for creating fisheries biology databases and timely publication of stock assessment results. Focussed utilisation of fisheries biology databases of commercially important fishery resources, including cutlass fishes using meta-analyses to validate and base fisheries management decisions should be considered.
Keywords: Age and growth, Condition factor, Length-weight relationship, Population parameters, Ribbonfishes, Stock assessment, Trichiuridae
Diversity of zooplankton in Kadalundi-Vallikunnu Community Reserve, North Kerala, India
Authors: Varghese Molly , Vinod K. , C. P. Ansar  , M. K. Nikhiljith  , M. S. Parvathy  , P. K. Asokan  , K.K. Joshi
Published: November 2023

Zooplankton samples collected from ten stations covering the entire stretch of the Kadalundi-Vallikunnu CommunityReserve, Kerala, south India, for a period from July 2018 to June 2019 were studied. Twenty eight groups of zooplankton viz. copepods, foraminifera, medusae, chaetognaths, siphonophores, ctenophores, ostracods, cladocera, Lucifer sp., amphipods, isopods, appendicularia, Balanus nauplii, cyphonautes larvae, polychaete larvae, echinoderm larvae, ephyra larvae, brachiopod larvae, alima larvae of squilla, aquatic insect larvae, prawn larvae, crab zoea, crab megalopa larvae, bivalve larvae, pteropods, gastropod larvae, fish eggs and fish larvae were recorded. Among these, copepods formed the major portion of 43%. An average of 18330 nos. per 100 m3 was noticed from the study area. The maximum and minimum density of zooplankton was observed at Station 1 and 10 respectively and a decreasing trend in abundance was recorded from barmouth towards upstream stations. Seasonal studies indicated a maximum of 52% during pre-monsoon, followed by 36% during post-monsoon and a minimum of 12% during monsoon. Different indices of diversity, dominance plot, dendrogram and Multi Dimensional Scaling (MDS) plot are presented and discussed.
Keywords: Biodiversity, Estuary, PRIMER, Primary consumers, Seasonality
Effect of vacuum tumbling assisted marination on textural and sensory properties of deep-fried Indian white shrimp
Authors: T. Nino  , Sasidharan A. , S. Sabu  , K. V. Sunooj  , C. Pradhan  , K. A. Martin Xavier
Published: November 2023

Effect of vacuum tumbling assisted marination on nutritional composition, texture, colour and sensory acceptability parameters of deep-fried Indian white shrimp (Penaeus indicus) was evaluated in this study. Peeled and deveined shrimp meat was subjected to traditional marination for two hours at room temperature as control (TM) and vacuum tumbling with a revolution of 8 rpm and vacuum pressure of 15 Hg for 5 min (VT 5), 10 min (VT 10) and 15 min (VT 15) were attempted. After the marination procedure, all the portions were deep-fried in sunflower oil at a controlled temperature of 1800 C for 2 min. Vacuum tumbling assisted marination, especially VT 10 exhibited similar textural, colour and sensory characteristics when compared to TM. The proximate composition analysis indicated superior moisture and protein content for VT 10 than TM. In addition, VT 10 recorded approximately 45% lower oil uptake after frying and around 90% reduction in marination time. The study successfully established that vacuum tumbling assisted marination could produce ready to eat (RTE) deep fried product from Indian white shrimp which is superior to traditional marination in terms of processing time and oil uptake while uncompromising sensory acceptability.
Keywords: Deep-fried shrimp, Marination, Sensory evaluation, Textural changes, Vacuum tumbling
Biometric analysis of white sardine Escualosa thoracata (Valenciennes, 1847) from Goa coast, India
Authors: Prajapati P. S. , Ahirwal S. K. , Singh Jaspreet , Chakraborty S. K. , Jaiswar A. K. , Sreekanth G. B.
Published: November 2023

The morphometry, length-weight relationship and condition factor of Escualosa thoracata (Valenciennes, 1847) from Goa waters was studied from 758 specimens. Males ranged in size from 80 to 117 mm and weighed 4.16 to 14.96 g, while females were 77 to 115 mm and 3.75 to 15.03 g. Among the compared characters, coefficient of correlation r were highest for standard length against fork length (0.9879) and lowest against snout length (0.1799). Based on meristic counts, the fin formula for white sardine can be written as D13-17 P9-13 V7-7 A11-19 Pps12-19 Pops10-12. Length-weight relationship was estimated as W = 0.0128L3.14 (r2 0.8677), W = 0.0140L3.10 (r2 0.9084) and W = 0.0134L3.12 (r2 0.8921) for males, females and combined sexes, respectively. A positive allometric growth (b>3) was observed for all samples. Condition factor was 1.31 for males, 1.43 for females and 1.37 for pooled samples, indicating that females are in better condition than males.
Keywords: Allometric growth, Condition factor, Length-weight relationship, Meristic counts, Morphometry
Reproductive traits of the obtuse barracuda Sphyraena obtusata Cuvier, 1829 in the Gulf of Mannar, south-east coast of India
Authors: R. Vinothkumar  , A. Srinivasan  , P. Jawahar  , N. Neethiselvan  , P. Padmavathy  , E. M. Abdussamad  , Prathiba Rohit
Published: November 2023

The reproductive biology (sex ratio, maturity and fecundity) of the obtuse barracuda Sphyraena obtusata Cuvier, 1829 was investigated based on 698 specimens (323 females and 375 males) sampled along the Pamban Coast in the Gulf of Mannar during the years 2018 and 2019. The total length of the samples ranged from 11.8 to 41.6 cm and the overall sex ratio (male:female) was 1:0.86. The length at first maturity (Lm50) was estimated to be 31.26 cm for females and 31.12 cm for males. Monthly changes in the gonadosomatic index (GSI) values and reproductive phases revealed a protracted spawning, extending from September to February with a peak in January. However, the presence of mature females throughout the year indicated year-round spawning behaviour of the species in the region. Detailed histological studies of the ovary further confirmed that the species is a continuous batch spawner. The estimated absolute batch fecundity ranged between 20,520 and 2,22,422 oocytes and the relative batch fecundity ranged from 261 to 754, with an average of 505 ova per gram body weight of fish. The ova size ranged from 0.03 to 0.84 mm (Mean±SE: 0.43±0.04). Fecundity positively correlated with the total length and total weight of the fish, indicating larger females produced a greater number of ova compared to the smaller ones.Keywords: Batch spawners, Bay of Bengal, Fecundity, Gonadosomatic index (GSI), Histology, Maturity, Reproductivedynamics, Sex ratio
A review on the threatened species of snow trout Schizothorax richardsonii Gray, 1832 (Cypriniformes: Cyprinidae): From the climate change and conservation perspectives
Authors: Bhatt Jay Prakash , Manish Kumar
Published: November 2023

Snow trout (Schizothorax richardsonii Gray, 1832) occupies the Himalayan domain from the foothills to 3000 m and inhabits all types of water bodies, like rivers, rivulets, lakes, and reservoirs. It is a rheophilic fish species that can thrive in a wide range of ecological and climatic conditions. Globally snow trout is now a 'threatened' species. Invasion of its natural habitats by exotic trouts, river valley hydropower projects as well as destructive fishing in the Himalayan region have long been attributed to the vulnerability of this species. The intrinsic characteristics of snow trout also make it a weak competitor in the Himalayan rivers. Climate change coupling with above mentioned threats poses a new challenge for Himalayan fish, especially snow trout, as it is confined to the Himalaya. Given these threats, an intense drive for snow trout conservation is urgently required. This contribution is an attempt to find out solution to this fact. In line with the opinions of ecologists and conservationists, we suggest a few measures like setting up free-flowing and undammed rivers as 'fish conservation zones', environmental flow to downstream areas of existing dams, prohibition of stocking of exotic fish species in natural habitats and use of hatcheries for stocking and restocking of snow trout in the rivers for the conservation of the species.
Keywords: Climate change, Conservation, Himalaya, Hatcheries, Snow trout, Threats, Vulnerable
Nonlinear Normal Modes of Highly Flexible Beam Structures Modelled under the SE(3) Lie Group Framework
Authors: Bagheri Amir Kamyar , Sonneville Valentin , Renson Ludovic
Published: November 2023

This work presents a shooting algorithm to compute the periodic responses of geometrically nonlinear structures modelled under the Special Euclidean (SE) Lie group formulation. The formulation is combined with a pseudo-arclength continuation method, while special adaptations are made to ensure compatibility with the SE framework. Nonlinear normal modes (NNM) of various two-dimensional structures including a doubly-clamped beam, a shallow arch, and a cantilever beam are computed. Results are compared with a reference displacement-based FE model with von Kármán strains. Significant difference is observed in the dynamic response of the two models in test cases involving large degrees of beam displacements and rotation. Differences in the contribution of higher order modes substantially affect the frequency-energy dependence and the nonlinear modal interactions observed between the models. It is shown that the SE model, owing to its exact representation of the beam kinematics, is better suited at adequately capturing complex nonlinear dynamics compared to the von Kármán model.
Chemical Composition of Water and Sediments of Tundra Lakes as the Background Area of the North of Murmansk Region (Arctic)
Authors: Slukovskii Zakhar , Guzeva Alina , Malysheva Maria , Kudryavtseva Lyubov
Published: November 2023

The article presents new data on the chemical composition of water and recent sediments of six small lakes located in the Natural Park “Rybachy and Sredny Peninsulas” (the Russian Arctic). The main hydrochemistry parameters, including pH, conductivity, alkalinity, the content of main ions (Ca, Mg, Na, K, HCO3, SO4, Cl), and trace elements were measured in the water of selected lakes. Furthermore, concentrations of heavy metals (Pb, Sb, Cd, Ni, Cu, and others) were estimated in the upper layers of recent sediments of the lakes. The integral index PLI, designed for geochemicalstudies of sediments, was calculated to determine the level of chemical pollution of the lakes. The results showed that, in general, the studied parameters did not exceed the background level. There was no serious impact of the Kola Mining and Metallurgical Company, which is situated several dozen kilometers to the west from the lakes. It was revealed that the studied lakes were less contaminated with heavy metals in comparison with the previously researched lakes of urban territories of the Russian Arctic zone. However, the analysis of distribution of concentrations of Ni, Cu, Pb revealed the influence of long-range atmospheric pollution on lakes of the Natural Park “Rybachy and Sredny Peninsulas”. The fractional analysis of the metals in the sediments showed that the elements were mainly associated with stable compounds of the sediments and, thus, there was an only potential environmental risk for the biota of the studied lakes.
Multi-mode Trade Policy Retaliation1
Authors: Feinberg Robert , Nes Kjersti , Reynolds Kara M. , Schaefer Aleks
Published: November 2023

Previous studies have found evidence that countries may choose to retaliate against countries for certain trade actions. What has not been empirically examined is the use of multi-modal retaliation in trade policy. Using an exporter-importer-sector panel of antidumping (AD), sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS), and technical barriers to trade (TBT) actions between 1995 and 2019, we find evidence of both cross-sector and cross-agreement retaliation: importers are statistically more likely to initiate an AD petition against an exporter if they have an ongoing SPS-related concern against that exporter. The World Trade Organization’s dispute settlement body (DSB) was initially seen as promoting the stability of the global trading system by limiting such unilateral retaliation, widespread throughout the 1980s. We find statistical evidence suggesting that countries may be increasingly engaging in unilateral actions, particularly through SPS and TBT, in response to trade policy disputes as confidence in the WTO DSB falls. Our findings suggest that countries may expect more unilateral retaliatory action through SPS and TBT if recent efforts to reform the WTO DSB fail.
Immune system status of healthcare professionals after high-risk exposure to SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Wojas-Krawczyk Kamila , Krawczyk Paweł , Błach Justyna , Kucharczyk Tomasz , Grenda Anna , Krzyżanowska Natalia , Szklener Katarzyna , Horaczyńska-Wojtaś Anna , Wójcik-Superczyńska Magdalena , Chmielewska Izabela , Milanowski Janusz
Published: November 2023

Background
The immunological background responsible for the severe course of COVID-19 and the immune factors that protect against SARS-CoV-2 infection are still unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate immune system status in people with high exposure to SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Methods
Seventy-one people employed in the observation and infectious diseases unit were qualified for the study between November 2020 and October 2021. Symptomatic COVID-19 was diagnosed in 35 people. Anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies were also found in 8 people. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and plasma were obtained from all participants (in symptomatic COVID-19 patients approximately one month after infection). PBMC subpopulations were analyzed by flow cytometry, and the concentrations of cytokines and anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies were determined by ELISA.
Results
The percentages of cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs), CD28+ and T helper (Th) cells with invariant T-cell receptors were significantly higher in persons with symptomatic COVID-19 than in those who did not develop symptoms. The following percentages of PBMC populations were significantly lower in symptomatic COVID-19 patients than in asymptomatic people: CTLs in the late stage of activation (CD8+/CD95+), NK cells, regulatory-like Th cells (CD4+/CTLA-4+), and Th17-like cells (CD4+/CD161+). Additionally, persons with anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies had a significantly higher lymphocyte count and IL-6 concentration than persons without these antibodies.
Conclusion
Numerous lymphocyte populations are permanently altered by SARS-CoV-2 infection, and they contribute to the severity of COVID-19. Understanding the immune background of COVID-19 may improve the prevention of this disease by identifying people at risk of a severe course of infection.
Trial registration
This is a retrospective observational study without a trial registration number.
Evaluation of fetal cardiac morphology and function in the normal second and third trimester : application of the Fetal Heart Quantification technique
Authors: Hu Wenjing , Wang Mingyue , Bian Jinyan , Liu Wen , Ding Jin , Gu Xinxian
Published: November 2023

Objective: Using the Fetal Heart Quantification technique to comprehend the fetal heart's changes in growth and development during the typical second and third trimesters, and provide a framework for the clinical use of the fetal heart speckle tracking technology.
Methods: This study involved 500 fetuses from mothers who had normal pregnancies between March 2021 and August 2022. The fetal heart was analyzed quantitatively after the fetal ultrasound readings and a film of a typical four-chamber heart slice was recorded. Measurements included fetal heart size, GSI, SV, CO, EF, GLS, and FAC of both ventricles, as well as EDD, SI, and FS of 24 segments. The research subjects were divided into 5 groups according to the GA: 20~23+6, 24~27+6, 28~31+6, 32~36+6, 37~40+6 weeks. Continuous variables between groups were compared by single Factor analysis of variance or Kruskal-Wallis test, P<0.05 means the difference is statistically significant.
Results: 1. The size parameters of ventricles gradually increased with increasing GA (P < 0.05). The 24 segments EDD of both ventricles increased with increasing GA (P < 0.05), while first increasing and then decreasing from the ventricle base to the apex.
2. The GSI and the 24 segments SI of the two ventricles were not significantly different among the groups (P > 0.05).
3. The left ventricular EF, GLS, FAC, and right ventricular GLS, FAC decreased with increasing GA, and SV and CO increased (P < 0.05).
4. The 24 segments FS of the left ventricle showed a downward trend with increasing GA and gradually increased from the base to the apex. The FS of most segments of the right ventricle decreased with increasing GA and first increased and then decreased from the base to the apex.
Conclusions: The whole and segmental size parameters can quantitatively evaluate the growth and development of the fetal heart; the GSI and segmental SI are reliable morphological indexes; fetal ventricular function parameters EF, FAC, GLS, and segmental FS can assess cardiac function. The Fetal HQ technique can help us to evaluate the heart growth and development of normal fetuses in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy.
The first step of a realist investigation: Building an initial realist theory of on-the-day surgery cancellations.
Authors: Samarasinghe Buddhika S.W. , Millar Ross , Exworthy Mark
Published: November 2023

Background
On-the-day surgery cancellations (OTDSCs) have been a longstanding global problem, bringing significant suffering to patients and carers, and substantial waste across healthcare systems. Any cancellation of a surgery that occurs for any reason on the day of the scheduled surgery is defined as an OTDSC. Despite the high prevalence of OTDSCs, little is known about why they happen and how to minimise them. This article illustrates a method for developing initial programme theories (IPTs), which is the first step in any theory-driven realist investigation, with the aim of understanding why OTDSCs happen and in what contexts, as well as the extent to which they can be minimised.
Method
We used a multi-method approach consisting of three phases to work towards developing IPTs. Multiple methods were used: literature-related OTDSCs, findings on the feasibility of the comparative study, and feedback from expert practitioners and patients.
Results
The iterative analysis found that OTDSCs are a complex undesired outcome, influenced by many interconnected “variables”, at macro-level (e.g., NHS waiting list policy, austerity measures and workforce shortages) and meso-level (e.g., workload, high emergency admissions and interruptions), as well as healthcare professionals’ (HCPs) and patients’ perceptions and behaviours. The study identified that failures in various aspects of individualised care (such as care planning, communication and resource allocation) in preparing for surgery before admission could contribute to different types of OTDSCs.
Conclusion
As a result of the complex and interconnected nature of OTDSCs and the wide variety of causes, it can be hard to reduce their occurrence. OTDSCs can be minimised by carefully considering various aspects of individualisation of care, such as clinical care planning, communication and resource allocation and delivery when preparing patients to undergo surgery. Providing favourable working conditions and creating effective knowledge transfer between the actors initiating OTDSCs and HCPs who prepare patients for surgery can be critical to minimising most OTDSCs. The study developed a taxonomy and novel theories of understanding OTDSCs with practical implications for policymakers and practitioners.
Acylation modification enhanced encapsulation ability of baicalin by liposome, and liposome improved physicochemical properties and cytotoxicity of baicalin esters
Authors: Wang Wei , Xin Xuan , Zhang Mengmeng , Li Xiaofeng , Zhao Guanglei , Bai Weidong
Published: November 2023

The instability of ester bonds, low water solubility, and increased cytotoxicity of flavonoid glycoside esters with fatty chain significantly limit their application in the food industry. Therefore, the present study attempted to resolve these issues through liposome encapsulation. The results showed that the encapsulation and loading efficiencies of baicalin (a representative flavonoid glycoside) butyl ester and octyl ester were much higher than that of baicalin, and the leakage rate of baicalin butyl ester and octyl ester from liposomes was lower than that of baicalin after 60 days of storage at 4°C. The FTIR results revealed the location of butyl ester and octyl ester in the hydrophobic layer of liposomes, which was different from baicalin. Additionally, liposome encapsulation significantly improved the water solubility and stability of baicalin butyl ester and octyl ester in the digestive system and PBS but significantly reduced their toxicity to the L02 cells. Furthermore, the release rate of butyl ester (64.4%) and octyl ester (60.3%) from liposomes was lower than that of baicalin (97.5%) during gastrointestinal digestion. These results indicate that liposome encapsulation could hinder the negative effects of fatty chain introduction into flavonoid glycosides, thereby resolving the deficiency of flavonoid glycoside-loading liposomes.
Annona muricata callus extracted particles (AMCEP) as a potential anticancer agent against Human Colorectal Cancer cell line HCT-116 by inducing apoptosis
Authors: Tambe Harshad , Bhosale Ashok , Borse Ramdas
Published: November 2023

Although the advances in chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery, the mortality and morbidity rate of cancer cases is still high. The use of natural plant derived medicinal product has an emerging modern therapy in order to improve human health and reducing the risk of side effects from synthetic drugs. The aim of this study to evaluate the anticancer potential of Annona muricata callus extracted particles against human colorectal cancer cell line HCT-116. A. muricata callus extracted particles were screened for the cytotoxic activity by MTT (3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazoliumbromide) assay against HCT-116 & WI-38 cell line. Further, Annexin V apoptosis assay were done by the flow cytometry analysis. The particles from ethanolic extract of A. muricata callus showed cytotoxic effect against HCT-116 cell line with IC50 60.64 µg/ml while it showed mild toxicity only at highest concentration against normal WI-38 cell line. Further, Annexin V apoptosis assay reveals the sample treated cell population of HCT-116 followed the process of early apoptosis as compared to the control cells (untreated). It has been concluded that A. muricata callus extracted particles have potential anticancer agent against human colorectal cancer cell line HCT-116.
The association between intolerance of uncertainty from COVID-19 and mindfulness with mental health in nursing students: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Amanat Nasir , Soleimani Mohsen , Mirmohammadkhani Majid , Jahangiri Benyamin , Khosravi Hamed
Published: November 2023

Aim
To examine the relationship between intolerance of uncertainty caused by COVID-19 and mindfulness with mental health in nursing students after vaccination and the reopening of universities.
Background
To control the COVID-19 pandemic, various strategies such as maintaining social distancing and lockdown were implemented in educational centers and different communities. Fluctuations caused by the change in the spread of the COVID-19 epidemic and the change in the adopted strategies made students vulnerable to stress, anxiety and maladaptive reactions and caused long-term symptoms of post-traumatic stress, confusion and anger in different groups of students.
Design:
This research was a cross-sectional correlational descriptive study that was conducted from December to March 2022 on 199 nursing undergraduate students in an online questionnaire survey in Iran.
Methods
Sampling was done based on the determined inclusion criteria. Demographic information questionnaire, general health questionnaire, intolerance of uncertainty and mindfulness questionnaire were used to collect data. The assessment tools chosen are both valid and reliable. To test the normality of quantitative variables descriptive indices were used. ANOVA and linear regression were used to analyze the data. Data analysis was done using SPSS16 software at a significance level of 0.05.
Results
The average age of the students was 21.98 ± 2.57 years. 55.8% of the participants were female and the majority of the participants (40.2%) were in the third year of their education. Most of the students suffered from the intolerance of uncertainty caused by COVID-19 and their mental health was affected, so that there was a significant and direct relationship between these two study variables. According to the demographic variables, there was a significant relationship between the score of intolerance of uncertainty and the income status of the family (P = 0.046); and with increasing income, the intolerance of uncertainty score’s decreased (r=-0.154). There was a significant and reverse relationship between intolerance of uncertainty and mindfulness, and there was a significant and reverse relationship between mindfulness and mental health score.
Conclusion
The students’ mental health was significantly affected, both those who were confident about the onset of a new wave of COVID-19 and those who were uncertain and had returned to university, compared to those who had optimistic and mindful attitudes. Mindful attention as a moderator can influence the relationship between intolerance of uncertainty and mental health.
A New Projection Neural Network for Convex Nonlinear Second-order ConeProgramming with an Application in Force Optimization Problems
Authors: Mu Xuewen , Zhao Bingcong
Published: November 2023

In this paper, a new projection neural network (PNN) is proposed for the convex nonlinear second-order cone programming (CNSOCP) with linear constraints. The KKT system of the CNSOCP with linear constraints is equivalent to the cone projection equations. Based on the natural residual function, a new PNN is proposed using by the descent direction of the Lyapunov function. The new PNN is derived from a projection descent direction of the prediction-correction projection and contraction method. Furthermore, the Lyapunov stability and global convergence of the proposed PNN are proved. The numerical results show the new PNN is efficient for CNSOCP problems with linear constraints and two force optimization problems.
Efficacy and safety of camrelizumab in patients with first-line and second- line therapy for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma: A multicenter, prospective, real-world study
Authors: Li Tingting , Dai Yaqing , Fu Xiaobin , Cai Qunrong , Ke Dongmei , Yao Qiwei , Li Jiancheng
Published: November 2023

Background In this study, we aimed to evaluate the real-world efficacy and safety of camrelizumab and identify clinicolaboratory factors that predict treatment outcomes in patients with unresectable advanced, recurrent, or metastatic esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) receiving camrelizumab. Methods Herein, 174 patients with unresectable advanced, recurrent, or metastatic ESCC treated with camrelizumab monotherapy (n = 30), camrelizumab + chemotherapy (CT; n = 91), and camrelizumab + radiotherapy (RT; n = 53) between October 1, 2019 and October 1, 2022 were included. Results The median follow-up time was 20 months (range, 1–34 months). The median progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) of the whole cohort were 8 months [95% confidence interval (CI), 6.5–9.5 months] and 14 months (95% CI, 11.2–16.8 months), respectively. After multivariate analysis, receiving > 4 cycles of camrelizumab and having a good lung immune prognostic index (LIPI) were identified as independent predictors of better PFS and OS. The objective response rate of patients in the camrelizumab monotherapy group, camrelizumab + CT group, and camrelizumab + RT group was 46.2%, 47.1%, and 37.3%, respectively. The treatment-related adverse events (AEs) of grade 3 or higher were reported in 67 patients (38.5%). The most common treatment-related AEs were decreased neutrophil count (23.0%), decreased white blood cell count (19.5%), anemia (7.5%), and pneumonitis (4.6%). One patient (0.6%) died from a treatment-related AE of immune checkpoint inhibitor-induced myocarditis. Conclusion Camrelizumab was safe and effective as both monotherapy and part of a combination therapy. Longer PFS and OS were associated with receiving > 4 cycles of camrelizumab and having a good LIPI. LIPI can be used as a prognostic biomarker for ESCC patients receiving camrelizumab + RT.
The association between bipolar disorder and thyroid dysfunction: a bidirectional two- sample Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Xu Yuan , You Yiting , Xu Zhilong , Ji Changle , Fang Lin
Published: November 2023

Background Both bipolar disorder (BD) and thyroid dysfunction contribute significantly to the global burden on the quality of life of the population. Previous studies have observed a potential association between BD and thyroid dysfunction. Our aim was to analyze the causal relationship between BD and thyroid dysfunction.Methods We ran a group of bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses based on summary data of genome-wide association studies (GWASs) of European individuals to estimate the causal relationship between BD (N = 413,466) and thyroid dysfunction (N = 462,933). A threshold of P < 0.05 was deemed of potential evidence for a causal effect. Instrument variables (IVs) were included based on the genome-wide significance threshold (P < 5 × 10− 8) and linkage disequilibrium (LD) clumping (r2 < 0.001). In total, 41 and 39 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from the Psychiatric Genomics Consortium (PGC) associated with BD were employed as genetic instruments for hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, respectively. In the reverse MR analysis, 99 and 11 variants extracted from hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism were utilized as genetic instruments, which were obtained from recent large-scale Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS). Outlier assessment and sensitivity analyses of results were performed to confirm the robustness.Results Analyses suggested that BD was negatively associated with hypothyroidism (OR 0.996; 95%CI 0.993–0.999; P = 0.003). Hyperthyroidism was negatively associated with BD(OR 1.68*10− 5;95%CI 1.72*10− 7–0.002༛P = 2.52*10− 6). However, no evidence suggested an association between hypothyroidism and the risk of BD, as well as BD and the risk of hyperthyroidism.Conclusions This study provides evidence that the presence of BD is associated with a decreased risk of hypothyroidism. Meanwhile, the presence of hyperthyroidism is associated with a decreased risk of developing BD. These findings hold significant implications for future research endeavors aimed at improving treatment approaches for individuals with BD and exploring the etiology of BD.