bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Visualizing Complexity and Emergence: Insights from the Hippocampus Representation Model
Authors: Montgomery Richard
Published: May 2024

This article explores the intricate dynamics of complexity and emergence through the lens of a graphical model representing hippocampal functions. Utilizing a series of overlapping curves that intersect at varying degrees and frequencies, we create a visual metaphor for the sophisticated processes to store information observed in the hippocampus. This model not only depicts the spatial and frequency-related interactions of these curves but also illustrates the emergent patterns that arise from these interactions. These patterns exemplify the principles of complexity and emergence, where the collective behavior of simple elements results in intricate and unexpected outcomes. This graphical representation serves as a bridge between the abstract mathematical concepts of complexity theory and the tangible biological processes observed in neuroscience. By drawing parallels to the hippocampus, known for its role in memory formation and spatial navigation, the article sheds light on how complex systems, such as neural networks, exhibit properties that are more than just the sum of their parts. The model thus offers a unique perspective on understanding complex systems, not only in neuroscience but in broader scientific inquiries where complexity and emergent phenomena are pivotal.
Crossroads between Stability and Randomness of the Non-stationaryQueue’s Pointwise Stationary Fluid Flow Approximation modelCrossroads between Stability and Randomness of the Non-stationary Queue’s Pointwise Stationary Fluid Flow Approximation
Authors: A Mageed Ismail , Becheroul Amina
Published: May 2024

The current work reveals the fine tuning between stability zones and randomness of Pointwise Stationary Fluid Flow Approximation (PSFFA) model of the non-stationary queueing D/M/1 system. More specifically, this clearly provides more insights into developing a contemporary PSFFA theory that unifies non-stationary queueing theory with chaos theory and fields in both theoretical physics and chaotic systems. This opens new grounds for stability analysis of non-stationary queueing systems.
Chemical Profile of “Folla Redonda” Grape; Differentiation with Traditional Winemaking Grapes
Authors: Aliaño-González María José , García-Lozano Alba , Vázquez-Espinosa Mercedes , V. González-de-Peredo Ana , Chinchilla Nuria , Barbero Gerardo Fernández , Palma Miguel , Carrera Ceferino
Published: May 2024

The Folla Redonda grape is indigenous to the region of Rias Bajas in Galicia, Spain. This grape is distinguished by its characteristic acid flavor and pulp of remarkable coloration. Despite the wine obtained from this grape is highly valued by consumers of this region for its surprising acidic notes and thickness, it is important to note that it is not a variety of Vitis vinifera and its production is not legally regulated. In the present study, an evaluation of the physicochemical properties of the Folla Redonda grape (pH, °Brix, °Bé, density, acidity, sugar content, etc.) as well as its content in bioactive compounds (total polyphenols and anthocyanins) was carried out. Additionally, the antioxidant potential of the extracts obtained from this grape was demonstrated. This study proved the interesting organoleptic characteristics of the grape, along with a high content of compounds of interest and an important antioxidant activity comparable to that of Vitis vinifera grapes. Therefore, the grape's natural consumption and its application in different industries such as nutraceutical or pharmacological would result in an important revaluation of the grape and significant health benefits. In case that the production of wine from this variety is legalized, consumers will not only be able to enjoy a wine with a characteristic dense reddish color and important acid tones, but also with interesting concentrations of bioactive compounds.
Comparison between Ultrasonographic-Guided Temporal and Coronoid Approaches for Trigeminal Nerve Block in Dogs: A Cadaveric Study
Authors: Gutiérrez Bautista Álvaro Jesús , Mikic Manon , Otero Pablo , Rega Virginia , Medina-Bautista Francisco , Redondo García José Ignacio , Kästner Sabine , Wang-Leandro Adriano
Published: May 2024

The trigeminal nerve is responsible for innervating the periorbita. Ultrasound-guided trigeminal block is employed in humans for trigeminal neuralgia or periorbital surgery. There are no studies evaluating this block in dogs. This study aims to evaluate and compare two approaches (coronoid and temporal) of the trigeminal nerve block. We hypothesized superior staining with the coronoid approach. Thirteen dog heads were used. After a preliminary anatomical study, two ultrasound-guided injections per head (right and left, coronoid and temporal approach, randomly assigned), with an injectate volume of 0.15 mL cm-1 of cranial length were performed (iodate contrast and tissue dye mixture). The ultrasound probe was placed over the temporal region, visualizing the pterygopalatine fossa. For the temporal approach, the needle was advanced from the medial aspect of the temporal region in a dorsoventral direction. For the coronoid approach, it was advanced ventral to the zygomatic arch in a lateromedial direction. CT scans and dissections were conducted to assess and compare the position of the needle, spread of injectate, and nerve staining. No significant differences were found. Both approaches demonstrated effective interfascial distribution of injectate, with some minimal intracranial spread. Although the coronoid approach did not yield superior staining as hypothesized, it presents a viable alternative to the temporal approach. Studies in live animals are warranted to evaluate clinical efficacy and safety.
Sneaky DCIS-Looking Invasive Ductal Carcinoma of the Breast in the Background of Extensive DCIS
Authors: Ibe Ifegwu , Niu Chenchen , Shi Wangpan , Ren Dong
Published: May 2024

In the most cases, invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) of the breast is identifiable when they present with classic infiltrative growth pattern. However, subset of IDC can occur in a very sneaky way, significantly mimicking the appearance of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). In this condition, it’s much easier to miss the invasive component without pulling ancillary staining when morphologic findings are extremely compatible with DCIS, especially the diagnosis of DCIS was made on the previous biopsy. Here, we reported a 55 year-old female who was noted to have microcalcification at the 11:00 o’clock of the right posterior breast on routine mammographic examination in 09/2023. Biopsy of the calcification area in 10/2023 reported high grade DCIS (ER+ PR-). Histologic examination of subsequent mastectomy specimen showed two separate DCIS-looking areas (Figure 1A-D and Figure 2). Immunohistochemical (IHC) staining showed that myoepithelial markers, smooth muscle myosin heavy chain (SMMHC), p63, CK5/6 and S100, were retained at the periphery of all the expanded acini in one area (Figure 1E-H). Unexpectedly and surprisingly, myoepithelial markers were completely lost at the periphery of part of the DCIS-looking acini in another area (Figure 3A-H), immunohistochemically compatible with the diagnosis of invasive ductal carcinoma admixed with DCIS. Knowing that invasive ductal carcinoma of the breast can present as DCIS-looking morphology, especially given the condition that the diagnosis of DCIS was rendered on the previous biopsy, will enhance awareness of pathologists to recognize DCIS-looking invasive ductal carcinoma. In turn, this will prevent misdiagnosis and under-treatment of patients with invasive ductal carcinoma of the breast.
Norway Spruce (Picea abies L.) Evidencing >0.35 Ka Long Climate Variability in the Sudetes, Central Europe
Authors: Cedro Anna , Cedro Bernard , Borówka Ryszard Krzysztof , Okupny Daniel , Osóch Paweł , Stefaniak Krzysztof , Wojtuń Bronisław , Kasprzak Marek , Ratajczak-Skrzatek Urszula , Kmiecik Paweł , Rusinek Krzysztof , Jiroušek Martin , Plášek Vítězslav , Hrynowiecka Anna , Michczyński Adam
Published: May 2024

During an interdisciplinary study of the mire “Pod Małym Śnieżnikiem”, a very old specimen of the Norway spruce (Picea abies L.) was encountered. The aim of the present work was to perform a detailed examination of this tree, to compare it to other spruce trees on the mire, and to provide support for establishing protection for this tree stand. Tree-ring cores were sampled at 1.3 m above ground using Pressler borer, in two field campaigns: in June and July 2023, the latter campaign aiming to find the oldest trees. A total of 46 trees were sampled, yielding 84 measuring radii. Tree ring widths were measured down to 0.01 mm under a stereomicroscope. The oldest sampled tree yielded a total of 370 tree rings in the two radii, representing the period 1653–2022. The average tree ring width for TM15 equals 0.33 mm/year, and shows low values (on average 0.19 mm/year) for the period 1742–1943, i.e., during the Little Ice Age cooling. TM15 does not stand out from other trees from the population with respect to height or trunk diameter. A comparison of the age of this tree to the oldest spruce trees in Poland indicates that it is one of the longest living specimens of this species. Considering the natural character of the stand, the remaining flora and the peat-forming processes taking place within the mire “Pod Małym Śnieżnikiem”, we argue that the mire should become protected by the law as soon as possible in order to preserve this valuable high-mountain habitat.
Evaluation of Antenna Designs for Wearable Technology: A Literature Review
Authors: Timpoc Shean Royce , Arboleda Edwin
Published: May 2024

Research into improving the functionality and capacities of wearable technology has surged as a result of its fast progress. The functioning of wearable technology is largely dependent on antenna design, which provides wireless connectivity and communication. This study of the literature searches many online sources for pertinent research on the various antenna designs for wearable technology. The findings verified that the materials vary based on the design being employed. An analysis was conducted on the gain, frequency, materials, and sizes. The review excels at synthesizing research and literature despite its restricted resources.
A Novel Mastadenovirus from N. noctula which Represents a Distinct Evolutionary Branch of Viruses Infecting Bats in Europe
Authors: Speranskaya Anna S. , Dorokhin Alexander V. , Korneenko Elena V. , Chudinov Ivan K. , Samoilov Andrei E. , Kruskop Sergey V.
Published: May 2024

Bats are natural hosts for a wide variety of viruses and could therefore be the reservoir, source and spillover for several mammalian viruses, including adenoviruses. We examined faecal samples from 12 bats (five species of the family Vespertilionidae) from central Russia (Moscow Region) and found that two of them (16%) were positive for mastadenoviruses. One of the identified viruses was isolated from faeces of Nyctalis noctule and named BatAdV/MOW15-Nn19. The genome of the BatAdV/MOW15-Nn19 was 37,915 bp in length. Comparative studies have shown significant divergence of the nucleotide sequence of the BatAdV/MOW15-Nn19 genome from European mastadenoviruses, the highest genome sequence similarity was to isolate WA3301 from an Australian bat. Phylogenetic analysis, as well as a comparative analysis of the protein coding genes to homologous available from public database, showed evidence of novel species within Mastadenovirus genus (preliminary named «K»). Analysis of the short part of the DNA polymerase gene of BatAdV/MOW15-Nn19 reveals few NCBI records from Europe with high identity to the new virus, i.e. mastadenoviruses related to the new species are circulating in European bats. The partial genome of another mastadenovirus from Pipistrellus nathusii was identified, it represented bat adenovirus species B, which is widely distributed in European Vespertilionidae bats. New data on the genetic diversity of bat adenoviruses may help to better understand how they evolved in mammals and spread across Europe.
Detailed GNSS Observation Noise Assessment Based on Ultra-Short Baseline
Authors: Ji Shengyue , Wang Jing , Weng Duojie , Chen Wu
Published: May 2024

Assessing observation noise is a critical step in the development of a stochastic model for GNSS navigation and positioning. This process ensures that the statistical properties of the observational data are accurately characterized, leading to more reliable and precise positioning results. Traditionally, the one sigma values for observation noise, 0.3 m for code and 3 mm for carrier phase, alongside elevation-dependent weighting schemes, have been standard. However, these may no longer be suitable due to significant advancements in GNSS systems, receivers, and antennas. Previous research predominantly focused on code type and PPP techniques, often limited by the inability to separately assess observation types across different frequency bands due to ionospheric delay. Furthermore, these studies were generally constrained by limited experimental data. This research advocates for the use of ultra-short baselines to eliminate atmospheric delay and other error sources, providing a detailed assessment of observation noise for various frequency bands, GNSS systems, and receiver & antenna types over an extensive period and across multiple baselines. The findings suggest a need to reconsider traditional one sigma values and elevation-dependent weighting schemes for current applications.
Forcados Asphaltene and Its Combustion Characteristics for Future Fuel Examination
Authors: Atiku Farooq Abubakar , Kerry Christian Onukaogu , Hassan Abdulaziz Mohammed , Yusuf Abdulfatah Abdu , Adiya Zainab Ibrahim Sarkin Gobir
Published: May 2024

The high dependence on light crude oil as the main source of energy in automobiles., industrial processes, source of raw material for various industrial synthesis have made the heavy crude more available in the world and open for research work on its potentials as a source of energy for the increasing population of the world in areas like energy source for powering big marine engines, energy source in heavy industrial machines e.t.c. Though the relatively unfavourable characteristics of heavy fuel oil such as; high viscosity, high probability of precipitating is a reasonable challenge to the possible utilization of heavy fuel as a source of energy in the areas highlighted above. These issues of heavy fuel oil are largely due to the presence of Asphaltene in it which is a large complex hydrocarbon in heavy fuel oil. Understanding the combustion potential of asphaltene is therefore an interesting and challenging problem that has attracted increasing attention from both academia and industry. This research work is aimed at carrying combustion studies on the Forcados (Ni-geria) heavy fuel fraction asphaltene HFFA extracted from Forcados crude Oil and examining its combustion characteristics with the view to examine it for future sweet heavy fuel generation for it source got low sulphur content, to ascertain the volatile composition, moisture and ash content. The HFFA extracted to determine physical characteristics of the HFFA extracted for fuel properties potentialities and this study was carried out to evaluate the chemical constituents of forcadous asphaltene lead-ing to the generaration of HFFA using GCMS. The Forcados asphaltene showed some good fuel properties when subjected to ce-tane number, API gravity, flash point and cloud point parameter test. Probing further with AAS for trace metal presence showed some high concentration on Chromium (Cr), Nickel (Ni), Iron (Fe), Lead (Pb), Cadmium (Cd), Copper (Cu), Manganese (Mn) and Zinc (Zn) indicating the potential for residual and soot formation after combus-tion. But still being a sweet asphaltene from Nigerian sweet crude source will be de-void of corrosive effect on machineries and heavy fuel engine if used to power it as in the case of high sulphur content in Venezuelan crude oil and some other world. The GCMS showed the decomposition of heavy crude asphaltene peaks and sig-naling the presence of heavy fuel fraction in the composition of the asphaltene while the FTIR and the UV-VIS identified the various functional groups in the compounds and the identification of signals that cannot be seen in the normal spectrum respec-tively.
Detection of Mpox Virus Using a Wastewater Surveillance Approach in Brazil
Authors: Calabria de Araujo Juliana , Carvalho Ana Paula A. , Leal Cintia D. , Natividade Manuelle , Borin Marcus , Guerra Augusto , Carobin Natalia , Sabino Adriano , Almada Mariana , Costa Maria Cristina M. , Saia Flavia , Frutuoso Livia V. , Iani Felipe Campos M. , Ribeiro Talita E.A. , Fonseca Vagner , Giovanetti Marta , Alcantara Luiz Carlos Junior
Published: May 2024

Sewage surveillance can be used as an effective complementary tool for detecting pathogens in local communities, providing insights into emerging threats and aiding in the monitoring of outbreaks. In this study using qPCR and whole genomic sewage surveillance, we detected Mpox virus along with other viruses, in municipal and hospital wastewaters in Belo Horizonte, Brazil over a 9 months period (from July 2022 till March 2023). MPXV DNA detection rates varied in our study, with 19.6% (11 out of 56 samples) detected through the hybrid capture method of whole genome sequencing and 20% (12 out of 60 samples) through qPCR. In hospital wastewaters, the detection rate was higher at 40% (12 out of 30 samples), compared to 13.3%(4 out of 30 samples) in municipal wastewaters. This variation could be attributed to the relatively low number of MPXV cases reported in the city, which ranged from 106 to 341 cases during the study period, and to dilution effects, given that each of the two wastewater treatment plants (WWTP) investigated serves approximately 1.1 million inhabitants. Additionally, nine other virus families were identified in both hospitals and municipal wastewaters including Adenoviridade, Astroviridae, Caliciviridae, Picornaviridade, Polyomaviridae, Coronaviridae (which includes SARS-CoV-2), Herspesviridae, Papillomaviridae and Flaviviridae (notably including Dengue). These findings underscore the potential of genomic sewage surveillance as a robust public health tool for monitoring a wide range of viruses circulating in both community and hospitals environments including MPXV.
Indirect Voltammetry Detection of Non-Electroactive Neurotransmitters using Glassy Carbon Microelectrodes: The Case of Glutamate
Authors: Galindo Sandra Lara , Nimbalkar Surabhi , Oyawale Alexis , Bunnell James , Cuacuas Omar Nunez , Montgomery-Welsh Rhea , Rohatgi Amish , Cariappa Brinda Kodira , Gautam Abhivyakti , Peguero-Garcia Kevin , Lee Juyeon , Bisgaard Stephanie Ingemann , Faucher Carter , Keller Stephan Sylvest , Kassegne Sam
Published: May 2024

Glassy carbon (GC) microelectrodes have been successfully used for detection of electroactive neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin through voltammetry. However, non-electroactive neurotransmitters such as glutamate, lactate, and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) are inherently unsuitable for detection through voltammetry techniques without functionalizing the surface of the microelectrodes. To that end, we present here the immobilization of L-glutamate oxidase (GluOx) enzyme on the surface of GC microelectrodes to enable catalysis of chemical reaction between L-glutamate, oxygen, and water to produce H2O2, an electroactive byproduct that is readily detectable through voltammetry. This immobilization of GluOx on the surface of bare GC microelectrodes and the subsequent catalytic reduction of H2O2 through fast scan cyclic voltammetry (FSCV) helped demonstrate indirect in vitro detection of glutamate, a non-electroactive molecule, at concentrations as low as 10 nM. The functionalized microelectrodes formed part of 4-channel arrays of microelectrodes (30 m x 60 m) on a 1.6 cm long neural probe supported on a flexible polymer, with potential for in vivo applications. The type and strength of the bond between the GC microelectrode surface and its functional groups on one hand, and glutamate and the immobilized functionalization matrix on the other hand, were investigated through molecular dynamics (MD) modeling and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). Both MD modeling and FTIR demonstrated the presence of several covalent bonds in the form of C-O (carbon-oxygen polar covalent bond), C=O (carbonyl), C-H (alkenyl), N-H (hydrogen bond), C-N (carbon-nitrogen single bond), and C≡N (triple carbon nitrogen bond). Further, penetration tests on agarose hydrogel model confirmed that the probes are mechanically robust with their penetrating forces being much lower than the fracture force of the probe material.
Resisting to Exist & the Subtle Invisible Protest: 6 Solution Focused Tactics about Challenging Behaviour
Authors: Goldschmied Z Anita , Holyoake Dean-David
Published: May 2024

According to Young Minds [1] ‘everyone gets angry sometimes’. Their website offers a number of de-escalating strategies, including staying calm, managing responses and setting limits to help young people who most deem resistive. Yet, Young Minds are not alone because such logical advice is ubiquitous in the literature about challenging behaviour despite the fact that in our experience when faced with high states of arousal, most young people tend to act first and deal with the consequences later. It’s not that they are stupid or non-caring, but they are human capable of great feats as well as stupidity. The same is true for any claims that solution focused (SF) conversations can put right the several decades of psychological theory suggesting resistance requires logic and better cognition. By giving the correct thinking skills, young people will walk away from risk, avoid physical confrontation, handle challenging situations like logical thinkers, and generally discount that the process of growing up is part of the challenge. It is with this in mind that over recent years in our current SF practice (with staff group supervision) we have examined the concept of ‘resistance’ and how it can be put to use as a process of collaboration. To do this, we have revisited SF theory that preoccupied many of its pioneers during the 1980’s and 1990’s and attempted to make it useful for the early 2020’s for professionals having conversations with young people, who, in traditional models, are labelled challenging. We want to introduce key differences of solution focused practice and how Anita started to formulate a 6D-SF model (details, dynamics, dimensions, dispositions, dislocations, descriptions) for contemplating how groups of professionals relate to each other and are triggered by challenging behaviour. We do not claim to have proof, logic or exactness on our side, but we’re happy to suggest how our resistance mirrors what many of the staff teams feel and describe when working through their work.
Binary and Ternary Blended Portland Cements Containing Different Types of Rice Husk Ash
Authors: Ordoñez Luis Miguel , Borrachero María Victoria , Monzó José , Soriano Lourdes , Payá Jordi
Published: May 2024

Rice husk ash (RHA) is agricultural waste with high silica content that has had proven technical feasibility as a pozzolanic material since the 1970s. Notwithstanding, its use in mortars and concrete is limited by the standards currently utilized in some countries where RHA production is high and the aforementioned pozzolanic material is not standardized. This is the case of Spain, one of the main rice producers in Europe. Nowadays, the high pressure placed on the Portland cement production sector to reduce energy use and CO2 emissions has given rise to a keen interest shown in mineral admixtures for cement manufacturing. In this research, we intend to establish the contribution of different RHA types to final blended Portland cement properties (symbol “H” was used to identify RHA in standardized cements). The experimental results demonstrated that RHA with good pozzolanic properties (large specific surface and high amorphous silica content) had to be limited to 10% cement replacement because of the severe reduction in workability at higher replacement percentages. RHA with lower reactivity, such as crystalline RHA, or fly ash (FA), can be used to prepare binary and ternary blended cements with reactive RHA. It is possible to design the following cements: CEM II/A-H and CEM II/A-(H-V) It would also be possible to design cement (CEM II/B-(H-V) with replacement values up to 30% and the same 28-day mechanical performance observed for the Portland cement without mineral addition.
Association Between Periprosthetic Joint Infection and Mortality Following Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty
Authors: Mundi Raman , Pincus Daniel , Schemitsch Emil , Ekhtiari Seper , Paterson J. Michael , Chaudhry Harman , Leis Jerome A. , Redelmeier Donald A. , Ravi Bheeshma
Published: May 2024

Background:

Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) remains a dreaded and unpredictable complication after total hip arthroplasty (THA). In addition to causing substantial morbidity, PJI may contribute to long-term mortality risk. Our objective was to determine the long-term mortality risk associated with PJI following THA.

Methods:

This population-based, retrospective cohort study included adult patients (≥18 years old) in Ontario, Canada, who underwent their first primary elective THA for arthritis between April 1, 2002, and March 31, 2021. The primary outcome was death within 10 years after the index THA. Mortality was compared between propensity-score-matched groups (PJI within 1 year after surgery versus no PJI within 1 year after surgery) with use of survival analyses. Patients who died within 1 year after surgery were excluded to avoid immortal time bias.

Results:

A total of 175,432 patients (95,883 [54.7%] women) with a mean age (and standard deviation) of 67 ± 11.4 years underwent primary THA during the study period. Of these, 868 patients (0.49%) underwent surgery for a PJI of the replaced joint within 1 year after the index procedure. After matching, patients with a PJI within the first year had a significantly higher 10-year mortality rate than their counterparts (11.4% [94 of 827 patients] versus 2.2% [18 of 827 patients]; absolute risk difference, 9.19% [95% confidence interval (CI), 6.81% to 11.6%]; hazard ratio, 5.49 [95% CI, 3.32 to 9.09]).

Conclusions:

PJI within 1 year after surgery is associated with over a fivefold increased risk of mortality within 10 years. The findings of this study underscore the importance of prioritizing efforts related to the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of PJIs.

Level of Evidence:

Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Population characteristics unravel occurrence of distinct stocks of yellowfin tuna (Thunnus albacares) population in the Indian seas
Authors: E. M. Abdussamad  , S. Surya  , K. P. Said Koya  , Prathibha Rohit  , A. M. Abbas  , D. Prakasan  , Shihab Ismail
Published: May 2024

Fishery and biological observations of yellowfin tuna caught from seas surrounding theIndian mainland and its island territories have indicated the presence of biologically distinctstocks in the region. Those caught around the submerged mounts of Chagos-LaccadiveRidge in the Lakshadweep Sea, off Kerala-Karnataka coast exhibit early maturity, small sizeat maturity, short lifespan and a close association with sea mounts. In contrast, those caughtoff other coasts of the mainland, including Andaman waters, exhibit late maturity and largersizes at maturity indicating a fishery dominated by larger-sized individuals. These findingssuggest that the yellowfin tuna associated with the Lakshadweep Sea mounts constitutesa distinct stock, highlighting the necessity for comprehensive genetic, morphometric andpopulation investigations to confirm their stock status.
 
Keywords:Chagos-Laccadive Ridge, Indian mainland,Lakshadweep Sea, Maturity, Stock, Sea mounts,Yellowfin tuna
Spatial structure and distribution of ribbonfish Trichiurus lepturus Linnaeus, 1758 along the eastern Arabian Sea
Authors: P. Abdul Azeez  , Prathibha Rohit  , K. M. Rajesh  , C. Anulekshmi  , Ajay D. Nakhawa  , Shubhadeep Ghosh  , K. Muhammed Koya  , E. M. Abdussamad
Published: May 2024

Ribbonfish Trichiurus lepturus is one of the most important pelagic fish resources in India.The west coast of India (WCI) is considered to be the major region where the species isabundant and forms a sizeable fishery. Determining the spatio-temporal abundance of fishis a key requirement for sustainable resource harvest. This paper illustrates the spatialstructure and distribution of ribbonfish along the WCI using the geostatistical technique,semi-variogram modelling. The spatio-temporal distribution map was generated by kriginginterpolation using the global neighbourhood in the study area. The results show that theareas of higher abundance of ribbonfish shifted between seasons, abundance along thenorthern region was high during the post-monsoon, while later shifting southward up to17°N, peaking between 18°N and 19°N. Furthermore, summertime peak abundance tendedto be more coastal in the Mumbai region. Ribbonfish abundance was relatively lower alongthe southern region i.e., below 15°N year-round. This finding provides additional informationto fishery managers and policymakers which will help improve the sustainability of fisheriescoupled with traditional fisheries management measures
 
Keywords:Arabian Sea, GIS, Geo-statistics, Species distributionmodelling, Spatiotemporal management
Mastering the transition: induction activities for Chinese students to facilitate adaption to the UK learning environment
Authors: Quan Lianfeng , Reilly Dawn
Published: May 2024

Student induction, a key element of transition to university, is of great importance because it marks the initial face-to-face interaction between students and university staff and their introduction to learning in higher education. In the School of Accounting, Finance and Economics at the University of Greenwich, a tailored induction approach is used for incoming Chinese Direct Entry (CDE) students. The goal of this induction is to familiarise CDE students with the United Kingdom (UK) learning environment to counter the academic culture shock which international students can experience. CDE induction begins with sessions which explain UK teaching, learning and assessment approaches, followed by an introduction to the university’s library resources. Students then collaborate in small groups, applying the techniques and knowledge they have gained to analyse case studies. This immediate engagement with student-centred learning jumpstarts independent study skills, collaboration and friendships among CDE students.
Re-thinking housing inspection and regulation: using 360 technology as a new approach in environmental health practice training
Authors: Lawson Aaron , Stewart Jill , Turner Ellis , Passmore Peter , Costly Carol
Published: May 2024

Front-line professions such as environmental health require practitioners to demonstrate competence in practice-based skills typically gained only through on-the-job experience. However, practice opportunities have been more scarce, owing mainly to austerity but also to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, so necessitating novel approaches to teaching and learning. 360 technology has recently emerged as a possible solution, but its potential for use in an environmental health setting, such as housing inspection and regulation, is virtually unknown. This study involved the use of a 360-degree camera to record a simulated walkthrough and mock inspection of a two-storey house. These ‘photospheres’ were demonstrated to under- and postgraduate students, who were then surveyed online to explore their attitudes towards the use of this technology as a training method. Analysis of the questionnaire responses revealed four self-reported themes: experience of housing regulation and enforcement practice and training; experiences of 360 technology in housing inspection practice and enforcement; attitudes towards using 360 technology versus traditional photograph and filming methods for experiential learning, training and practice purposes; and attitudes towards the application of 360 technology for experiential learning and training purposes in housing inspection enforcement and regulation. The results indicated that students found this a helpful and flexible tool, particularly valuing its immersive nature, both for initial training and continuing professional development (CPD) in housing inspections and interventions. It has wider applicability to other frontline professional practices and requires further development to help shape new forms of training.
Binding of LncRNA-DACH1 to dystrophin impairs the membrane trafficking of Nav1.5 protein and increases ventricular arrhythmia susceptibility
Authors: Pan Zhenwei , Xue Gen-Long , Yang Jiming , Zhang Yang , Yang Ying , Zhang Ruixin , Li Desheng , Tian Tao , Zhang Xiaofang , Li Changzhu , Li Xingda , Yang Jiqin , Shen Kewei , Guo Yang , Liu Xuening , Yang Guohui , Lu Yanjie , Yang Baofeng
Published: May 2024

Dystrophin is a critical interacting protein of Nav1.5 that determines its membrane anchoring in cardiomyocytes. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are involved in the regulation of cardiac ion channels, while their influence on sodium channel remains unexplored. Our preliminary data showed that lncRNA-Dachshund homolog 1 (lncDACH1) can bind to dystrophin, which drove us to investigate if lncDACH1 can regulate sodium channel by interfering with dystrophin. Western blot and immunofluorescent staining showed that cardiomyocyte-specific transgenic overexpression of lncDACH1(lncDACH1-TG) reduced the membrane distribution of dystrophin and Nav1.5 in cardiomyocytes. Meanwhile, peak INa were reduced in the hearts of lncDACH1-TG mice than wild-type (WT) controls. The opposite data of western blot ,immunofluorescent staining and patch clamp were collected from lncDACH1 cardiomyocyte conditional knockout (lncDACH1-cKO) mice. Moreover, increased ventricular arrhythmia susceptibility was observed in lncDACH1-TG mice in vivo and ex vivo. The conservative fragment of lncDACH1 inhibited membrane distribution of dystrophin and Nav1.5, and promoted the inducibility of ventricular arrhythmia. Strikingly, activation of dystrophin transcription by dCas9-SAM system in lncDACH1-TG mice rescued the impaired membrane distribution of dystrophin and Nav1.5, and prevented the occurrence of ventricular arrhythmia. Furthermore, lncDACH1 was increased in transaortic constriction (TAC) induced failing hearts, which promoted the inducibility of ventricular arrhythmia. And the expression of lncDACH1 is regulated by hydroxyacyl-CoA dehydrogenase subunit beta (hadhb), which binds to lncDACH1 and decreases its stability. The human homologue of lncDACH1 inhibited the membrane distribution of Nav1.5 in human iPS-differentiated cardiomyocytes. The findings provide novel insights into the mechanism of Nav1.5 membrane targeting and the development of ventricular arrhythmias.
A dynamical interpretation of the intensification of the winter North Atlantic jet stream in reanalysis
Authors: Verger Alejandro Hermoso , Riviere Gwendal , Harvey Ben , Methven John , Schemm Sebastian
Published: May 2024

Jet streams play an important role in determining weather variability and extremes. A better understanding of the mechanisms driving long-term changes in the jet is essential to successfully anticipate extreme meteorological events. This study analyzes the intensification trend of the North Atlantic jet using the ERA5 reanalysis and investigates the dynamical mechanisms involved. The results highlight the importance of an increase in diabatic heating in the free troposphere below the jet entrance over the Gulf Stream sector. This change in diabatic heating modifies the jet directly and produces a local intensification and a slight poleward shift. A two-dimensional frontal-geostrophic model illustrates this mechanism by considering the enhanced diabatic heating associated with the baroclinic growth of extratropical cyclones. The change in diabatic heating also affects the jet indirectly by increasing the mean baroclinicity and subsequent eddy momentum flux convergence. This indirect mechanism has also an effect downstream, where there is an acceleration of the jet core and reduced westerlies along the flanks, reducing the width of the jet. An idealized warming experiment confirms this mechanism by determining the jet response downstream of an idealized land-sea contrast. Finally, using a single-model ensemble of fully-coupled climate simulations, we show that the differences in the evolution of the North Atlantic jet are related to the latitude of the increase in baroclinicity, which has a large spread. What emerges from the model hierarchy is a consistent dynamical chain of mechanisms associated with the intensification trend of the North Atlantic jet stream.
Psychometric properties of single-item measure of recovery expectations in rehabilitation research and practice
Authors: Carrière Junie , Montemurro Laury , Sullivan Michael
Published: May 2024

Purpose: The present research aims to evaluate the construct validity and test-retest reliability of a single-item measure of recovery expectations in individuals with low back pain due to an occupational injury.
Methods: A single-item measure of recovery expectations (“What is the probability that you will return to work?”) was administered to 58 work-disabled individuals with low back pain. All participants were enrolled in a physical therapy program aimed at return to work and participated in a 2-hour single-session pain management course. At baseline, participants completed measures of demographics, recovery expectations and pain-related psychological variables (pain catastrophizing, perceived injustice, depressive symptoms and anxiety symptoms). Four weeks after the initial assessment, participants completed the same measures. Analyses examined the construct validity and test-retest reliability of a single-item measure of recovery expectations following the COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement Instruments (COSMIN).
Results: Findings demonstrate high construct validity and high test-retest reliability. This study represents a step towards practice-based evidence by providing a brief, low-burden, low-cost measure of recovery expectations that can be seamlessly integrated into clinical workflow and research protocols.
Conclusions: A single-item measure demonstrated good psychometric properties for measuring recovery expectations in individuals with low back pain due to an occupational injury
New pyranoxanthones from the stem bark of Calophyllum soulattri Burm. F.
Authors: Lizazman Mas Atikah , Mian Vivien Jong Yi
Published: May 2024

Five new pyranoxanthones (1–5), together with eight known xanthones were isolated from hexane extract of C. soulattri stem bark. Among the new compounds, xanthones 1–3 are structural isomers. The structures of compounds 1–13 were determined by 1D and 2D NMR analysis.
Clinical and molecular analysis of a novel variant responsive to salbutamol monotherapy during COVID-19 outbreak related to congenital and late-onset of myasthenic syndrome in large kindred
Authors: Nouri Zahra , Saffari-Chaleshtori Javad , Sarmadi Akram , Sehhati Mohammadreza , Tabatabaiefar Mohammad-Amin
Published: May 2024

Background: Congenital myasthenic syndromes (CMSs) are a group of clinically and genetically heterogeneous disorders. Mutations in the DOK7 gene underlie CMS with fatigue and muscle weakness, which would worsen with some conventional treatments but show excellent response to special drugs. Here, we applied exome sequencing (ES) to investigate the etiology of CMS in several patients with congenital and late-onset presentations of the disease.
Methods: We ascertained a big pedigree including 3 homozygous and 5 carriers, primary proband was subjected to ES, following immunological, biochemical and neurological evaluations. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulation studies were conducted to investigate the DOK7 proteins' stability. The variant’s pathogenicity was assessed using bioinformatics tools and co-segregation analysis. We adapted the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG) guidelines for variant interpretation.
Results: ES results showed a novel homozygous variant (c.1139-1140delinsA:p.Ala380AspfsTer76) in the DOK7 gene. Co-segregating analysis confirmed the pathogenicity of it based on the ACMG guidelines. Interestingly, the identified variant has shown partial autosomal dominant inheritance. The MD simulation analysis revealed this variant to result in the protein function impairment. Effective treatment with salbutamol was obtained in an 18-months follow-up. Remarkably, therapeutic doses of salbutamol in severe COVID-19 patients prevented recurrence of paralysis or muscle weaknesses that occurred with a mild cold.
Conclusion: We found a novel variant in the DOK7 gene, with the newly identified partial autosomal dominant inheritance. The findings were used to administer suitable drugs to the patients with maximum efficiency. Thus, ES creates a unique opportunity to promote personalized medicine.
Sources of Subseasonal Predictability of Atmospheric Rivers
Authors: Zhang Wei , xiang baoqiang , Tseng Kai-Chih , Jonhson Nathaniel , Harris Lucas , Delworth Thomas , Kirtman Ben
Published: May 2024

Atmospheric rivers (ARs) are characterized by intense lower tropospheric plumes of moisture transport that are frequently responsible for midlatitude wind and precipitation extremes. The prediction of ARs on subseasonal timescales is currently at a low level of skill, reflecting a need to improve our understanding of their underlying sources of predictability. Based on hindcast experiments from the Seamless System for Prediction and Earth System Research (SPEAR) at the Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory, we evaluate the global subseasonal prediction skill of wintertime AR statistics. Overall, the results from SPEAR are comparable to the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF). Higher forecast skill is detected for strong AR activities than weak AR activities, despite that the occurrence frequency for weak ARs exceeds that of strong ARs. Importantly, we assess the sources of predictability and find that three most predictable modes of ARs in the North Pacific sector can be interpreted as arising from the influence of the El Niño–Southern Oscillation, the Pacific North American and the Arctic Oscillation patterns. Subseasonal AR forecast skill in western North America is modulated by different phases of these modes of large-scale seasonal variability highlighting the potential windows of opportunity for subseasonal AR forecasting.
Enhancing Coagulation Management after Cardiac Valve Replacement and Plastic: The Benefits of Home Monitoring
Authors: Ying ChenXi , Liu LingShan , Dai BoHao , Fu YuFei , Chen Xin
Published: May 2024

Objective: The research aims to analyze the impact of home monitoring on INR control and complications in patients undergoing valve replacement and plastic surgery. It is also the first to assess and predict associated risk factors by using a nomogram graph.
Study Design: A retrospective descriptive study
Place and Duration of Study: Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital Zhejiang University of Medicine, from January 2021 to January 2023
Methodology:Conducted at the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, the retrospective study
involved 505 patients initially, with 406 completing the follow-up. Data collection included patient
characteristic, medical history, valve replacement details, and INR values.
Results: The study found that self-management of INR testing significantly improved the time in
therapeutic range (TTR), reduced INR variance, and decreased complications. Predictive factors for
postoperative coagulation control included gender, history of atrial fibrillation, preoperative
medication history, valve replacement type, and education level.
Conclusion:With home monitoring of INR, patients can take more control of their coagulation management and decrease the frequency of hospital visits. Treatment compliance and outcomes are enhanced when this method is combined with patient education level. The use of a nomogram helps identify patients with stable coagulation function for clinical trials and allows for early intervention in high-risk patients.
Short-term dry cupping improves autonomic nervous activity and sleep quality in university baseball players during a sports season
Authors: Chen Chien-Liang , Tang Jing-Shia , Chuang Chia-Chang
Published: May 2024

This study aimed to clarify the benefits of short-term cupping for athletes during preseason conditioning (PSC) and in-season conditioning (ISC). Forty university baseball players were recruited. Participants were divided into cupping (dry cupping at −400 mmHg) and sham (dry cupping at −100 mmHg) groups. Cupping was performed on the upper back and shoulders for 15 min, twice a week for 8 consecutive weeks: 4 weeks each during PSC and ISC. Four-week cupping exerted no significant effects on upper-extremity function during PSC or ISC. Exercise tests during PSC and ISC revealed no postintervention changes in peak power, peak oxygen consumption, or anaerobic threshold. However, cupping during PSC improved the postexercise recovery of low-frequency power (LF; P = .013; a heart rate variability component) and that during ISC improved the recovery of the LF/high-frequency power ratio (P = .004) and LF% (P = .037). Cupping during PSC significantly improved the participants’ daytime dysfunction scores on the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (P = .026). The benefits of cupping differ between PSC and ISC. Cupping during PSC and ISC markedly improves the postexercise recovery of autonomic activity and sympathetic activity, respectively. However, cupping enhances sleep quality only during PSC.
Effect of background music on STress Responses Amongst Undergraduates and Surgeons performing Simulated Surgical tasks: A randomised cross-over interventional trial (The STRAUSS Study)
Authors: Narayanan Anantha , Khashram Manar , Fisher James P
Published: May 2024

High stress may diminish a surgeon’s performance in the operating room (OR). Music is perceived to reduce stress in the OR, however the psycho-physiological effects of music on intra-operative stress in inexperienced and experienced operators is incompletely understood. The effect of music on the psychological (Six-Item State-Trait Anxiety Inventory [STAI-6] and Surgical Taskload Index [SURG-TLX]) and physiological responses (e.g., heart rate variability) was determined to a simulated surgical task (carotid patch-angioplasty) in 15 medical students (MS) and 12 vascular surgeons (VS) under stressing conditions in a randomised crossover design. Music did not affect the speed or accuracy of the simulated surgical stress task performance. While the surgical task increased SURG-TLX scores from baseline to control (D32 [22–42]; mean difference [95% confidence interval]) and to music (D30 [20–40]), and increased STAI-6 scores in both conditions, there was no difference between music and control. The surgical task also increased heart rate (peak D5.1bpm [3.0-7.1] vs. baseline p < 0.0001) and cardiac sympathetic nervous system activity (SNS index), and reduced parasympathetic (PNS index) nervous system activity, with the latter two exacerbated by music (SNS: 0.14 [0.004–0.27], p = 0.042; PNS: -0.11 [-0.22 - -0.008], p = 0.032). The more experienced group performed faster and more accurately than the inexperienced group, but there were no psychological or physiological differences in their responses to music. Despite previous research identifying generally positive surgeon perceptions of music on the intra-operative experience of stress, herein, background music failed to improve surgical task performance or attenuate subjective ratings of task load and anxiety, and physiological arousal.