bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Goals for Adherence with Low-cost Incentives (GOALS): A protocol for a randomized controlled trial in Kampala, Uganda
Authors: Huang Haijing , Linnemayr Sebastian , Wagner Zachary , Mukasa Barbara , Onkundi Faith , Odiit Mary
Published: May 2023

Background:
Treatment outcomes of HIV-positive individuals are threatened by low antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence, a problem that is particularly acute among youth. Incentives are a promising tool to support ART adherence, but traditional incentive designs rewarding uniformly high levels of the desired health behavior may demotivate those with low levels of the behavior. In this study, we investigate the effectiveness of alternative approaches to target-setting for incentive eligibility using subgoals (i.e. individual-specific, interim targets leading up to the optimal target).
Methods/Design:
We will enroll 628 HIV-positive youth between ages 15-30 into a 3-year randomized controlled trial. Participants will be randomized 1:1:1:1 to a control arm or one of three intervention arms (n=157 each) that allow them to enter a prize drawing for small incentives if their ART adherence meets the given goal. In the first arm (T1, assigned subgoal), goals will be externally assigned and adapted to their initial adherence level. In the second arm (T2, participatory subgoal), participants can set their own interim goals. In the third arm (T3, fixed goal), all participants must reach the same target goal of 90 percent adherence. T1 and T2 participants are required to reach 90% adherence by Month 12 to participate in a larger prize drawing. The control group receives the usual standard of care. All four groups will receive weekly motivational messages; the three treatment groups will additionally receive reminders of their upcoming prize drawing. Adherence will be measured continuously throughout the intervention period using electronic devices and for 12 months post-intervention. Surveys will be conducted at baseline and every 6 months. Viral loads will be measured annually. The primary outcome is Wisepill-measured adherence and a binary measure for whether the person took at least 90% of their pills. The secondary outcome is the log-transformed viral load as a continuous measure.
Discussion:
Our study is one of the first to apply insights about the psychology and behavioral economics of goal-setting to the design of incentives, by testing whether conditioning the eligibility threshold for incentives on subgoals (interim goals leading up to the ultimate, high goal) improves motivation and adherence more than setting a uniformly highly goal, and a comparison group.
Name of registration: ClinicalTrials.gov
Trial registration number: NCT05378607
Date of registration: May 18, 2022
URL of trial registry record: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05378607
Usefulness of plasma and apolipoprotein B-depleted serum samples in paraoxonase 1 assessment
Authors: Kawaguchi Rina , Kemeda Takahiro , Yoshimoto Akira , Ohkawa Ryunosuke
Published: May 2023

Background: Paraoxonase 1 (PON1) is closely associated with the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiatherosclerotic functions of HDL. Although many clinical studies have evaluated the relationship between PON1 activity and various diseases, there are inconsistencies in sample preparation methods and substrate selection for PON1 analysis. Moreover, depending on the selected substrates, various types of PON1 activities can be measured, which would be an obstacle of dissemination of clinical practice. Here, we investigated differences between three PON1 activity types according to sample preparation procedures.
Methods: Samples were prepared from serum, plasma with or without calcium addition, HDL isolated by ultracentrifugation, and apolipoprotein B-depleted serum (BDS). Using these various sample types, PON1 protein concentration and activities using three substrate types (p-nitrophenyl acetate, paraoxon, and γ-thiobutyrolactone) were evaluated. PON1 distributions in HDL subfractions from serum and BDS samples were also investigated.
Results: PON1 activities in plasma were maintained by immediate calcium addition similar to those in serum, suggesting that plasma could be used for assessing PON1 instead of serum in which PON1 can be transported to apolipoprotein B-containing lipoproteins. In contrast, HDL isolated from plasma had significantly lower PON1 protein concentrations. PON1 activities, protein concentration, and distributions in BDS sample showed similar to those in serum samples than those in HDL sample.
Conclusions: This study revealed the advantages of using plasma with calcium addition and BDS as specimens that better reflect the in vivoenvironment for PON1 assessment. Focusing on each of three PON1 activity types might further enhance the clinical significance of PON1 testing.
Study of S Poisoning Mechanism on LaMnO3 Perovskite Catalyst Surface Based on DFT Method
Authors: Ren Dongdong , Wencong Hao , Wei Li , Pengyun Liu , Luo Siyi , Gui keting , Zuo Zongliang
Published: May 2023

The sulfur poisoning mechanism of low-temperature SCR de-NOx catalyst has always been one of the hot spots in academic circles. By studying the surface sulfur poisoning mechanism, low-temperature catalysts can be developed pertinently. In this paper, the mechanism of sulfur poisoning on the surface of LaMnO3 catalyst was studied by DFT theory, and the adsorption process of sulfur oxides on the surface and its influence on SCR reaction process, as well as the morphology and decomposition process of ammonium sulfate on the surface were calculated. The results show that sulfur oxides will be adsorbed on the surface and occupy the adsorption site, which will adversely affect the subsequent SCR reaction. At the same time, ammonium sulfate will accumulate on the catalyst surface, which will lead to sulfur poisoning.
Continental Complementarity of Renewable Energy Mixes
Authors: Worman Anders , Pechlivanidis Ilias , Uvo Cinita Bertacchi , Riml Joakim , Mewes Daniela
Published: May 2023

Intermittent weather and long-term periodic climate fluctuations cause large variations in renewable electricity production, which can require substantial amounts of energy storage to overcome energy drought periods. Fulfilling the energy storage demand is a key problem in ensuring renewable energy supply and is of great political concern to energy security across Europe. Here, based on a 35-year historical record of daily hydroclimatic data and information about existing hydropower, wind power and solar power systems covering the European continent, we reveal the strong complementarity inherent in the solar-wind-hydro energy components of the continental climate system. We show that the spatiotemporal management of renewable electricity production over the European continent can induce a Virtual Energy Storage Gain that is several times larger than the available energy storage capacity in hydropower reservoirs. The entire potential electricity production can precisely match the consumption by spatiotemporal management and using the present hydropower complemented by suitable shares of solar and wind power. While the mixed renewable energy potential varies less than anticipated at the continental scale, utilization of the complementarity requires new continental electrical transmission lines as well as stable international collaboration and trade. Hence, we highlight that management models need to consider incentives well beyond national boundaries to appropriately benefit from the covariances of continental climate conditions.
Dopant-assisted stabilization of negatively charged single nitrogen-vacancy centers in phosphorus-doped diamond at low temperatures
Authors: Shalomayeva Tetyana , Gryzlova Mariia , Mukherjee Amlan , Santonocito Santo , Dzhavadzade Dzhavid , Dasari Durga Bhaktavatsala Rao , Kato Hiromitsu , Stöhr Rainer , Denisenko Andrej , Mizuochi Norikazu , Wrachtrup Jörg , Geng Jianpei
Published: May 2023

Charge state instabilities have been a bottleneck for the implementation of solid-state spin systems and pose a major challenge to the development of spin-based quantum technologies. Here we investigate the stabilization of negatively charged nitrogen-vacancy (NV−) centers in phosphorus-doped diamond at liquid helium temperatures. Photoionization of phosphorous donors in conjunction with charge diffusion at the nanoscale enhances NV0 to NV− conversion and stabilizes the NV− charge state without the need for an additional repump laser. The phosphorus-assisted stabilization is explored and confirmed both with experiments and our theoretical model. Stable photoluminescence-excitation spectra are obtained for NV− centers created during the growth. The fluorescence is continuously recorded under resonant excitation to real-time monitor the charge state and the ionization and recombination rates are extracted from time traces. We find a linear laser power dependence of the recombination rate as opposed to the conventional quadratic dependence, which is attributed to the photo-ionization of phosphorus atoms.
Research progress of MOF/carbon nanocomposites on promoting ORR in microbial fuel cells cathode
Authors: Yu Shuyan , Guo Zhen , Zhou Yan , Li Congju
Published: May 2023

With the rapid development of economy, demand for energy is more urgent. Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) have the advantages of non-toxic, safety and environmental protection, and are considered as the ideal choice for the next generation of energy storage equipment. However, the slow kinetics of oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) on MFC air cathodes and the high cost of platinum (Pt) catalysts hinder their practical application, so there is a need to develop efficient, low-cost and stable electrocatalysts as alternatives. Recently, metal-organic framework (MOFs) has attracted wide attention in the field of electrocatalysis. Electrocatalysts prepared by the composite of MOFs and carbon nanomaterials have multiple advantages, such as adjustable chemical properties, high specific surface area and good electrical conductivity, which have been proved to be a promising electrocatalytic material. In this paper, the latest research progress of organic metal frames and carbon nanocomposites is reviewed, and the preparation methods and modification of MOFs and carbon nanofibers, carbon nanotubes and graphene composites are introduced respectively, as well as their applications in MFC cathode. Finally, the main challenges and prospects of MOFs/ carbon nanocomposite catalysts are put forward.
Analysis of the performance of carbon fiber patches on improving the failure strength of a damaged and repaired plate
Authors: Sebaibi Nour El Houda , Mhamdia Rachid , Kaddouri Nadia , Djabbar Safaa .CHahrazed , Madani Kouider , Campilho R.D.S.G.
Published: May 2023

Since the implementation of the composite patch bonding repair technique, this process has gradually replaced the traditional methods of bolting or welding. The correct choice of fiber type for the composite patch ensures better repair durability. Carbon fiber composites, which are preferred for the most advanced aeronautical and industrial applications, have shown great effectiveness in reducing stresses at the damaged area. They are chosen for their high strength, low weight, and high stiffness, compared to other fibers. This work consists of a finite element method to evaluate the performance of carbon fiber composite patches (high-modulus fiber and high-strength fiber) for load transfer and thus stress concentration reduction at the damaged area. The composite patches are bonded by the Adekit A-140 adhesive to repair an aluminum 2024-T3 plate. The geometric models for the study are a plate with a lateral crack and another plate with a crack emanating from a notch. The aim is to highlight the advantage of using high-modulus (HM) or high-strength (HS) carbon fibers to repair a plate with a variable stress concentration damaged area, and to assess the performance of different composites for variable crack lengths. The effects of crack size, the presence of a notch, the applied stress, and the use of a hybrid composite (combination of HM fibers and HS fibers) have been demonstrated.
Treatment With Auxin and Paclobutrazol Mediates Ros Regulation, Antioxidant Defence System and Cell Wall Response in Salt Treated Soybean
Authors: AYVACI Ufuk , KOC Fatma Nur , CETINKAYA Hatice , DINLER Burcu SECKIN
Published: May 2023

IAA and PBZ play important role in resisting abiotic stress for plants. However, the effects of combination of these regulators in plants under salinity remained obscure. In the current study, the role of 50 ppm IAA and 10 ppm PBZ on mitigating salt stress (200 and 300 mM NaCl) was investigated in soybean (Glycine max L. cv. Planet). We identified that IAA or PBZ and IAA + PBZ improved the physiological parameters that damaged by salinity but PBZ performed best as observed by SEM. However, IAA was more succesfull to induce some antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, APX, POX) although both of them reduced or did not affect GSH- related enzymes (DHAR, MDHAR, GST, GR, GPX). Beside this, combination of IAA and PBZ treatment showed the lowest MDA with inhibited salt stress induced oxidative damage. Additionally, PBZ was more effective against as IAA to reduce the PME and PAL enzyme activities as well as decreased arabinose content, while they were increased with salinity. IAA or PBZ increased lignin content and lead to reduce loosening in roots, while IAA performed best. Overall, this study firstly presents that these regulators ( 50 ppm IAA; 10 ppm PBZ) could be used together to increase salt tolerance in soybean plants via regulating physiological and biochemical metabolism, antioxidant defense system and cell wall modified parameters. Thus, the application of IAA /PBZ to salt treated soybean plants could be utilized as a model to increase plant’s resistance under stress conditions.
ADSC secretome constrains NK cell activity by attenuating IL-2–mediated JAK-STAT and AKT signaling pathway via upregulation of CIS and DUSP4
Authors: Ko Eunhee , Yoon Taejun , Lee Yoojin , Kim Jongsun , Park Yong-Beom
Published: May 2023

Background: Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have immunomodulatory properties and therapeutic effects on autoimmune diseases through their secreted factors, referred to as the secretome. However, the specific key factors of the MSC secretome and their mechanisms of action in immune cells have not been fully determined. Most in vitro experiments are being performed using immune cells, but experiments using natural killer (NK) cells have been neglected, and a few studies using NK cells have shown discrepancies in results. NK cells are crucial elements of the immune system, and adjustment of their activity is essential for controlling various pathological conditions. The aim of this study was to elucidate the role of the adipose tissue-derived stem cell (ADSC) secretome on NK cell activity.
Methods: To obtain the ADSC secretome, we cultured ADSCs in medium and concentrated the culture medium using tangential flow filtration (TFF) capsules. We assessed cell viability and proliferation using CCK-8 and CFSE assays, respectively. We analyzed the effects of the ADSC secretome on NK cell activity and pathway-related proteins using a combination of flow cytometry, ELISA, cytotoxicity assay, CD107a assay, western blotting, and quantitative real-time PCR. To identify the composition of the ADSC secretome, we performed LC-MS/MS profiling and bioinformatics analysis. To elucidate the molecular mechanisms involved, we used mRNA sequencing to profile the transcriptional expression of human blood NK cells.
Results: The ADSC secretome was found to restrict IL-2–mediated effector functions of NK cells while maintaining proliferative potency. This effect was achieved through the upregulation of the inhibitory receptor CD96, as well as downregulation of activating receptors and IL-2 receptor subunits IL-2Raand IL-2Rg. These changes were associated with attenuated JAK-STAT and AKT pathways in NK cells, which were achieved through the upregulation of cytokine-inducible SH2-containing protein (CIS, encoded by Cish) and dual specificity protein phosphatase 4 (DUSP4). Furthermore, proteomic analysis revealed twelve novel candidates associated with the immunomodulatory effects of MSCs.
Conclusions: Our findings reveal a detailed cellular outcome and regulatory mechanism of NK cell activity by the ADSC secretome and suggest a therapeutic tool for treating NK-mediated inflammatory and autoimmune diseases using the MSC secretome.
Influence of Pharmacogenomics Polymorphism and Non- Genetics Factors on Allopurinol-Induced Cutaneous Adverse Drug Reactions in Thai Patients Running title: Genetics of Allopurinol-induced CADRs in Thais
Authors: Sornsamdang Gaidganok , Satapornpong Patompong , Jinda Pimonpan , Jantararoungtong Thawinee , Koomdee Napatrupron , Tempark Therdpong , Klaewsongkram Jettanong , Rerkpattanapipat Ticha , Rerknimitr Pawinee , Tuchinda Papapit , Chularojanamontri Leena , Tovanabutra Napatra , Chanprapaph Kumutnart , Disphanurat Wareeporn , Chakkavittumrong Panlop , Srisuttiyak Chutika , Srinoulpras Yuttana , John Shobana , Biswas Mohitosh , Sukasem Chonlaphat
Published: May 2023

Allopurinol is causing substantial morbidity and mortality particularly in Asian population by producing cutaneous adverse drug reactions (cADRs). The goal of this study was to identify genetic biomarkers of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) for allopurinol induced cADRs among Thai patients. We conducted a case-control association study after enrolling 57 Thai patients with allopurinol induced cADRs and 101 allopurinol tolerant controls. Genetic biomarkers and associated SNPs located on chromosome 6p21 were examined by TaqMan® SNP genotyping assays in both case and controls. Out of 15 SNPs in nine genes, four combined SNPs (rs3099844 of HCP5; rs9263726 of PSORS1C1; rs9263733 of POLR2LP and rs9263745 of CCHCR1) were significantly associated with allopurinol induced cADRs compared to tolerant controls (OR 3.2; 95% CI 24.2-266.8; P = 1.9x10− 24). Overall sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of these combinations were 84%, 94%, 9% and 100%, respectively. The SNPs were not in absolute linkage disequilibrium with HLA-B*58:01, however, the variant alleles of these SNPs combination were detected in 89.5% (51/57) of the cases. The findings suggest that these SNPs could be used as an alternative novel biomarker in predicting cADRs in patients taking allopurinol especially in those with absence of HLA-B*58:01 allele but still experiencing cADRs.
Study on the thermal kinetics and microscopic characteristics of oxidized coal
Authors: Wang Wei , Zhu Hongqing , Huang Hong , Zhao Hongru , Pan Rongliang
Published: May 2023

Revealing the characteristics of spontaneous combustion and re-combustion of oxidized coal is of great significance for the coal fire prevention and control. Synchronous Thermal Analyzer (STA) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometer (FTIR) were used to measure the thermal kinetics and microscopic characteristics of coal samples with different oxidation degrees (unoxidized, 100 ℃, 200 ℃ and 300 ℃ oxidized coal). It is found that the characteristic temperatures decrease first and then increase with the increasing degree of oxidation. The ignition temperature of 100 ℃-O coal (oxidized at 100 ℃ for 6 h) is relatively the lowest at 334.1 ℃. Pyrolysis and gas-phase combustion reactions dominate the weight loss process, while solid-phase combustion reactions are relatively minor. The gas-phase combustion ratio of 100 ℃-O coal is the highest at 68.56%. With the deepening of coal oxidation degree, the relative content of aliphatic hydrocarbons and hydroxyl groups gradually decreases, while that of oxygen-containing functional groups (C-O, C = O, COOH, etc.) increases first and then decreases, reaching the highest value of 42.2% at 100 ℃. Moreover, the 100 ℃-O coal has the minimum temperature at the point of maximum exothermic power of 378.5 ℃, the highest exothermic power of -53.09 mW/mg and the maximum enthalpy of -18579 J/g. All results show that 100 ℃-O coal has the highest risk of spontaneous combustion than the other three coal samples. This suggests that there is a maximum point of spontaneous combustion risk in the range of pre-oxidization temperatures of oxidized coal.
An assessment of WRF-Urban schemes in simulating local meteorology for heat stress analysis in a tropical Sub-Saharan African city, Lagos, Nigeria
Authors: Obe Oluwafemi Benjamin , Morakinyo Tobi Eniolu , Mills Gerald
Published: May 2023

Urban areas, such as Lagos, Nigeria, face significant challenges due to rapid urbanization and climate change, resulting in a higher intensity of the urban heat island effect, coupled with high population density, making the city fall under the category of moderate to high heat stress/risk. Despite this, very few studies have analysed the urban impact on heat stress over the coastal city, albeit with poor resolution data. In this study, we assessed the performance of an integrated high-resolution WRF-urban scheme driven by the readily available urban canopy information of the Local Climate Zone (LCZ) to simulate local meteorological data for analysing the spatiotemporal pattern of heat stress over the megacity. Our results show that the WRF-BEP scheme outperformed the other evaluated urban schemes, reducing the Normalized Root Mean Squared Error by 25%. Furthermore, we found a generally high incidence of intense discomfort in highly urbanized areas and noted the significant influence of urban morphology on the pattern of heat stress, particularly at night due to the combined effect of urban warming and higher relative humidity. The most socioeconomically disadvantaged urban areas, LCZ7, were most affected, with ‘hot’ heat stress conditions observed over 90% of the time. However, during the afternoon, our result highlights the role of the advection of cold sea breeze in reducing heat stress in highly urbanized areas. Our findings would be relevant in the development of the urgently needed climate/heat adaptation plans for the city and other sub-Saharan African cities.
Unlocking opioid neuropeptide dynamics with genetically-encoded biosensors
Authors: Tian Lin , Dong Chunyang , Gowrishankar Raajaram , Jin Yihan , He Xinyi , Gupta Achla , Wang Huikun , Atasoy Nilüfer , Flores-Garcia Rodolfo , Mahe Karan , Liang Ruqiang , Or Grace , Lo Darren , Sun Qingtao , Whistler Jennifer , Li Bo , Gomes Ivone , Tejeda Hugo , Atasoy Deniz , Devi Lakshmi , Bruchas Michael , Banghart Matthew
Published: May 2023

Neuropeptides are ubiquitous in the nervous system. Research into neuropeptides has been limited by a lack of experimental tools that allow for the precise dissection of their complex and diverse dynamics in a circuit-specific manner. Opioid peptides comprise a clinically relevant family that modulates pain, reward, and aversion. To illuminate the spatiotemporal dynamics of endogenous opioid signaling in the brain, we developed a class of genetically-encoded fluorescent sensors based on kappa, delta, and mu opioid receptors: κLight, δLight, and µLight, respectively. We used κLight to identify electrical stimulation parameters that trigger endogenous opioid release and the spatiotemporal scale of dynorphin volume transmission ex vivo. Using in vivo fiber photometry, we characterized optogenetically-driven opioid release, and observed differential opioid signaling in response to fearful and rewarding conditions in the nucleus accumbens. These sensors reveal the dynamics of endogenous opioid neuropeptide release in vivo, in awake freely moving behavior.
Transient response analysis of nonlinear oscillators with fractional derivative elements under Gaussian white noise using complex fractional moments
Authors: Tsuchida Takahiro , Itoh Daizoh , Eguchi Tsubasa
Published: May 2023

An approximate analytical approach using complex fractional moments (CFMs) is developed for determining the transient response　probability density of nonlinear oscillators with fractional derivative elements under Gaussian white noise. The CFM is defined as the Mellin transform of a probability density function. The system response is represented in the form of a pseudo-harmonic oscillation with amplitude and phase slowly varying with time. Equivalent linearization is first implemented to obtain an equivalent natural frequency and an equivalent damping coefficient of the oscillator. In this regard, simple formulas for determining them are proposed, in which both the nonlinear elements and the elastic and viscous contributions of the fractional elements are taken into account. Next, applying stochastic averaging, the response amplitude is described by a one-dimensional stochastic differential equation, and the corresponding Fokker-Planck equation is derived. The Mellin transform then converts the Fokker-Planck equation into coupled linear ordinary differential equations governing the evolution of amplitude CFMs, which are solved with a constraint corresponding to the normalization condition for a probability density. Finally, the inverse Mellin transform of the CFMs yields the amplitude probability density. The joint probability density of displacement and velocity is also obtained from the amplitude probability density in conjunction with the Jacobian of the pseudo-harmonic variable transformation for the response. Three linear and nonlinear oscillators with fractional derivatives are considered in numerical examples. For all cases, the analytical results obtained by the proposed method are in good agreement with the results of the pertinent Monte Carlo simulation.
Metachronal Wave Impact in a Channel Flow in the Presence of Prandtl Fluid Model
Authors: Sadaf Hina , Asghar Zeeshan , Iftikhar Naheeda
Published: May 2023

Motile cilia are tiny, hair-like structures originate in many different types of biological processes. They produce directed flow to allow fluid transport. Cilia are important for locomotion and play a dynamic part in animal and human growth and in everyday life. It may help to remove contaminants from organs or tissue by facilitating the flow of fluids over the cell. The intention of our theoretical study is to inspect the physical and computational aspects of applied magnetic field on Prandtl (non-Newtonian) ciliated fluid flow, that moves through a uniform ciliated channel. This flow is the conduct for symmetrical wave circulation and is frequently observed during the expansion and contraction of concentrical cilia. The problem is first formulated mathematically, which results in a highly nonlinear system of PDEs. Equations are transformed into ODEs using a scaling group of transformations. Second, approximation of wavelength is long and Reynolds number is low used to analyze the flow motion caused by metachronal waves. The emerging equation is solved numerically using the bvp4c method. Dimensionless velocity, temperature, pressure rise, and pressure gradient expressions are engendered and graphical comprehensive illustrations of all these in relation to various factors are also provided. Also, streamlines are fabricated to exhibit the flow phenomenon of ciliary motion.
Relationship between comorbidity and health outcomes in patients with heart failure: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Lee Kyoung Suk , Park Da-In , Lee Jihyang , Oh Oonjee , Kim Nayoung , Nam Gyumi
Published: May 2023

Background: The prevalence of heart failure (HF) is expected to rise due to increased survivorship and life expectancy of patients with acute heart conditions. Patients with HF and other multiple comorbid conditions are likely to have poor health outcomes. This study aimed to assimilate the current body of knowledge and to provide the pooled effect of HF patients’ comorbid conditions on health outcomes.
Methods: A systematic search was performed using MEDLINE, EMBASE and CINAHL databases. Observational studies evaluating the relationship between comorbid conditions and the health outcomes of HF were included. The pooled effect sizes of comorbidity on the identified health outcomes were calculated using a random effects model, and heterogeneity was evaluated using I2 statistics.
Results: A total of 42 studies were included in this review, and a meta-analysis was performed using the results of 39 studies. In the pooled analysis, the presence of a comorbid condition showed significant pooled effect size in relation to the prognostic health outcomes: all-cause mortality (HR 1.31; 95% CI 1.18, 1.45), all-cause readmission (HR 1.16; 95% CI 1.09, 1.23), HF-related readmission (HR 1.13; 95% CI 1.05, 1.23), and non-HF-related readmission (HR 1.17; 95% CI 1.07, 1.27). Also, comorbidity was significantly associated with self-care confidence. Furthermore, we identified 10 individual comorbid conditions that have negative effects on overall prognostic outcomes: DM (HR 1.16, 95% CI 1.11, 1.22, p< 0.001), COPD (HR 1.31, 95% CI 1.23, 1.39, p< 0.001), CKD (HR 1.18, 95% CI 1.14, 1.23, p< 0.001, stroke (HR 1.25, 95% CI 1.17, 1.33, p< 0.001), IHD (HR 1.17, 95% CI 1.11, 1.23, p< 0.001), anemia (HR 1.42, 95% CI 1.14, 1.78, p< 0.01), cancer (HR 1.17, 95% CI 1.04, 1.32, p= 0.01), atrial fibrillation (HR 1.25, 95% CI 1.01, 1.54, p= 0.04), dementia (HR 1.19, 95% CI 1.03, 1.36, p= 0.02) and depression (HR 1.17, 95% CI 1.04, 1.31, p= 0.07).
Conclusions: Comorbid conditions have significantly negative pooled effects on HF patient health outcomes, especially in regard to the prognostic health outcomes. Clinicians should carefully identify and manage these conditions when implementing HF interventions to improve prognostic outcomes.
Relational practice in health, education, criminal justice and social care: A Scoping Review
Authors: Lamph Gary , Nowland Rebecca , Boland Paul , Pearson Jayn , Connell Catriona , Jones Vanessa , Wildbore Ellie , Christian Danielle , Harris Catherine , Ramsden Joanne , Gardner Kathryn , Graham-Kevan Nicola , McKeown Mick
Published: May 2023

Background Establishing and maintaining relationships and ways of connecting and being with others is an important component of health and wellbeing. Harnessing the relational within caring, supportive, educational or carceral settings as a systems response has been referred to as relational practice. Practitioners, people with lived experience, academics and policy makers do not yet share a well-defined common understanding of relational practice. Consequently, there is potential for interdisciplinary and interagency miscommunication, as well as the risk of policy and practice being increasingly disconnected. Comprehensive reviews are needed to support the development of a coherent shared understanding of relational practice. Method This study uses a scoping review design providing a scope and synthesis of extant literature relating relational practice focussing on organisational and systemic practice. The review aimed to map how relational practice is used, defined and understood across health, criminal justice, education and social work, noting any impacts and benefits reported. English language articles were included that involve/discuss practice and/or intervention/s that prioritise interpersonal relationships in service provision, in both external (organisational contexts) and internal (how this is received by workers and service users) aspects. Results A total of 8010 relevant articles were identified, of which 158 met the eligibility criteria and were included in the synthesis. Most were opinion based or theoretical argument papers (n = 61, 38.60%), with 6 (3.80%) critical or narrative reviews. A further 27 (17.09%) were categorised as case studies, focussing on explaining relational practice being used in an organisation or a specific intervention and its components, rather than conducting an evaluation or examination of the effectiveness of the service, with only 11 including any empirical data. Of the included empirical studies, 45 were qualitative, 6 were quantitative and 9 mixed methods studies. There were differences in use of terminology and definitions of relational practice within and across sectors. Conclusion Although there may be implicit knowledge of what relational practice is the research field lacks coherent and comprehensive models. Despite definitional ambiguities a number of benefits are attributed to relational practices. Systematic review registration: The review protocol was registered with PROSPERO (Registration number: PROSPERO 2021 CRD42021295958) and is available at: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42021295958.
Attenuation characteristics of seismic waves beneath North-West Himalaya and North-East India region
Authors: Kumar Vikas , Kumar Dinesh , Chopra Sumer
Published: May 2023

The attenuation characteristics of NW Himalaya and NE India region has been estimated using recorded accelerograms. In this analysis frequency dependent attenuation of P-wave, S wave and coda wave was estimated and the scattering & intrinsic attenuation are separated using Wennerberg (1993) method. The frequency dependent relation of scattering attenuation (QS) and intrinsic attenuation (QI) have also been developed for these seismically active regions. The frequency dependent relations for NW Himalaya are Qα = (67 ± 0.22) f (0.96 ± 0.001), Qβ = (68 ± 0.29) f (0.95 ± 0.002), QC = (107 ± 0.10) f (1.06 ± 0.0003), QI = (95 ± 0.06) f (1.01 ± 0.0002) and QS = (306 ± 6.85) f (0.80 ± 0.009) for P-wave, S-wave, coda wave, intrinsic and scattering attenuation respectively. Similarly, for NE India region the frequency dependent relations are Qα = (89 ± 0.22) f (0.85 ± 0.001), Qβ = (92 ± 0.10) f (0.86 ± 0.0004), QC = (141 ± 0.34) f (1.02 ± 0.0009), QI = (120 ± 0.21) f (0.98 ± 0.0004) and QS = (306 ± 0.66) f (0.77 ± 0.0009) for P-wave, S-wave, coda wave, intrinsic and scattering attenuation respectively. The ratio of Qβ and Qα is greater than 1 for entire frequencies range considered in this analysis which indicates that both NW Himalaya and NE India regions are partially saturated with fluids. The estimated values of intrinsic (QI) and scattering (QS) attenuation shows that intrinsic attenuation is dominant in both NW Himalaya as well as NE India region. The important fact is that in both regions’ QC lies in between QI and QS, which agrees with theoretical and experimental measurements. The frequency dependent of Q’s in this study suggests that both regions are highly heterogenous and low value of Q0’s (i.e. Qα, Qβ and QC) for both regions exhibits high degree of seismicity.
A Lexical Network Approach to Second Language Development
Authors: Chen Heng
Published: May 2023

This study investigates lexical development in second language (L2) learning from the perspective of complex dynamic system theory (CDST) using a complex network method. Based on authentic written output texts from L2 Chinese learners of different proficiency levels and language backgrounds, we successfully differentiate between different proficiency levels using a bi-gram lexical network model. Furthermore, we compare the lexical-network-based approach with the traditional lexical-complexity-based approach. The results show that, compared to traditional lexical complexity indices (such as Average Word Length and Hapax Legomena Percentage), the lexical network indices (such as network size, number of edges, network density, and network centrality) offer greater insight into distinguishing L2 proficiencies and approximating the target language. Furthermore, the findings reveal that L2 Chinese lexical networks exhibit the characteristics of complex networks consistently across all proficiency levels. Additionally, lexical aggregation features, encompassing more than just word frequency information, provide comprehensive properties of the interlanguage system, as supported by their information gain values. We argue that studies within the CDST framework should integrate both lexical complexity and lexical network features to gain a comprehensive understanding of L2 lexical development.
Functional and Textural Characteristics of Fish Mince Sausages Prepared Using Microbial Transglutaminase
Authors: GORE SANDEEP B. , BALANGE AMJAD K. , KATARE MILIND B. , MOGALEKAR H. S. , RELEKAR SHAILENDRA S. , BELSARE SACHIN W.
Published: May 2023

The mince of rohu (Labeo rohita) fish was used to develop susages using microbial transglutaminase (MTGase). The functional (gel strength, water holding capacity, folding score), textural, colour characterstics, protein pattern and microstructure of the mince sausages prepared using MTGase (0, 1, 1.5 & 2%) were studied. MTGase positively enhaced the gel strength, water holding capacity, and folding score of the prepared sausages with an increment in concentration of MTGase. MTGase effectively cross-linked proteins in the gel network as revealed in protein patterns, despite presence of sarcoplasmic proteins. Although low, but the gel strength of mince sausages was found to be comparable with surimi and surimi-based gel products. The different concentration of MTGase did not show any significant influence (p > 0.05) on the textural properties of susages such as hardness, cohesiveness, adhesiveness and elasticity. The variation in colour characteristics of cooked mince sausages particularly whiteness arises from the pigments in mince and the colour of MTGase used during formulation of sausages. MTGase added sausage samples had a finer and homogenous protein network with a smaller void when compared with the gel of mince without MTGase in microstructure analysis. Though potential additive for improvement of functional properties of sausages, availability and cost of MTGase limits its use in the development of value-added fish products such as sausages from mince of freshwater fish.
Stressful life events during the perimenopause: longitudinal observations from the Seattle Midlife Women’s Health Study
Authors: Thomas Annette , Mitchell Ellen Sullivan , Pike Kenneth C. , Woods Nancy Fugate
Published: May 2023

Background Midlife is a time of increased responsibilities for women who have multiple roles including taking care of children, caring for elderly parents, managing households, and working outside the home. With little time for themselves, women additionally experience stressful life events. The purpose of this study was to describe the longitudinal patterns of stressful life events of women during midlife including socio-economic factors and demographic characteristics associated with them.Methods Women who were part of the Seattle Midlife Women’s Health Study (SMWHS), a longitudinal study spanning more than 23 years, who had stressful life events measured at baseline and at years 2, 7, and 10 were included in these analyses. The Life Event Scale, a 70-item scale based on a yes/no response and a Likert-based scoring system with 0 (no effect) to 4 (large effect), was used to determine the total and impact scores of midlife women. The LES was adapted to midlife women from the Norbeck Scale for younger, pregnant women. Analytic strategies consisted of a latent-class growth mixture module to examine subgroups of women with similar exposure to stressful life events using socio-economic factors (gross family income, education, race/ethnicity, employment) and demographic variables (age, marital status, being a parent, and menopausal transition stage) to differentiate trajectories over time.Results Women’s experience of total scores for undesirable stressful life events decreased over time; the impact was sustained over time (65% of the women) or sharply decreased (35% of the women). Women’s experience of total scores for desirable stressful life events were mostly medium high sustainers (61%) compared to high sustainers (27.3%). The impact of desirable stressful life events mostly decreased over time (92.5%). Menopausal transition stages were not significant predictors of stressful life events.Conclusion Midlife women experience stressful life events throughout the menopausal transition. Since the stages were not significant predictors of the ratings of SLEs, a more complex reason, more than biological and including social, may explain the ratings of the women over the course of this ten-year observational study.
Integration of single-cell regulon atlas and multi-omics data for prognostic stratification and personalized treatment prediction in human lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Xiong Yi , Zhang Yihao , Liu Na , Li Yueshuo , Liu Hongwei , Yang Qi , Chen Yu , Xia Zhizhi , Chen Xin , Wanggou Siyi , Li Xuejun
Published: May 2023

Transcriptional programs are often dysregulated in cancers. A comprehensive investigation of potential regulons is critical to the understanding of tumorigeneses. We first constructed the regulatory networks from single cell RNA sequencing data in human lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). We introduce LPRI (Lung Cancer Prognostic Regulon Index), a precision oncology framework to identify new biomarkers associated with prognosis by leveraging the single cell regulon atlas and bulk RNA sequencing or microarray datasets. We confirmed that LPRI could be a robust biomarker to guide prognosis stratification across lung adenocarcinoma cohorts. Finally, a multi-omics data analysis to characterize molecular alterations associated with LPRI was performed from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) dataset. Our study provides a comprehensive chart of regulons in LUAD. Additionally, LPRI will be used to help prognostic prediction and developing personalized treatment for future studies.
Driving Environmental Sustainability and Supply Chain Competitiveness through Green Logistics Management
Authors: LI Tianqi , Pertheban Thillai Raja , Gao Xinxiang
Published: May 2023

The subject of this study is the administration of green supply chain management (GSCM), which refers to a strategy aimed at preventing environmental catastrophes by incorporating eco-friendly practices throughout various processes such as product design, manufacturing, operations, waste management, and more. The implementation of GSCM poses numerous interconnected challenges, as highlighted by research in this field. These challenges were taken into account during the development of the ISM (Interpretive Structural Modeling) model, which aims to address these issues. This model can reduce or eliminate waste levels, leading to improved economic and environmental performance within the industry. Among the identified challenges, two significant hurdles stand out: the need for knowledge about reverse logistics and the requirement for additional workers. These factors contribute to a lack of growth and hinder the industry's ability to reach its full potential. In summary, the study emphasizes the importance of GSCM in combating climate change. It identifies the challenges associated with its implementation, particularly the need for knowledge in reverse logistics and the shortage of workers. Overcoming these challenges is crucial for the industry's advancement and achieving sustainable economic and environmental outcomes.
Relationship between morphology and surface properties in polystyrene-block-poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) diblock copolymer films
Authors: Dizajyekan Elham Sabzi , Nasiri Morteza , Abbasi Farhang
Published: May 2023

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
The Angle of Arrival Estimation of Frequency-Hopping Cooperative Object Based on Software-Defined Radio
Authors: Rustamaji Rustamaji , Kliwati Sri , Widada Wahyu
Published: May 2023

This study aims to investigate and propose a methodology for determining the azimuth angle of cooperative objects with fast processing, more accuracy, and safety. The proposed methodology encompasses the utilization of a transmitter emitting a continuous wave with a hopping frequency, in conjunction with measuring the Angle of Arrival (AOA) between two antennas through the application of interferometry techniques. Furthermore, this study presents an efficient AOA estimation method, which incorporates a sophisticated coarse-to-fine strategy, designed to enhance the processing speed and azimuth angle precision. Additionally, a Fourier bandpass filter is implemented to effectively filter out any signal interference. The Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) algorithm is employed for coarse estimation, whereas the Multiple Signal Classification (MUSIC) algorithms, utilizing coarse angle input and a scan limit of 2.5 degrees, is utilized for fine estimation. The proposed method has been analyzed through modeling and validated through outdoor testing based on Software Defined Radio (SDR), yielding an RMSE of less than 1 degree, utilizing the Blade-RF as the transmitter and the USRP B210 as the receiver.
Effect of Exercise Intervention on Depression in Children and Adolescents: A systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Li Jiayu , Zhou Xianxian , Huang Zan , Shao Tianyi
Published: May 2023

Objectives
To evaluate the effect of different exercise interventions on depressive symptoms in children and adolescents.
Methods
Randomized controlled trials (RCT) published until May 2023 were screened in seven databases. The Cochrane collaboration tool was used to assess the risk of bias for quality evaluation. Stata 16.0 software was used for both a pairwise meta-analysis and a series of frequentist network meta-analyses (NMA).
Results
A total of 35 RCTs and 5393 participants were included. Aerobic exercise had the most significant effect on depressive symptoms (66.2%), followed by game training (62.5%), resistance exercise (59.0%), and aerobic combined with resistance exercise (57.9%). Furthermore, children and adolescents younger than 15 years showed significant improvement in depressive symptoms (SMD=-0.41, 95% CI (-0.63, -0.19), P < 0.01). The study also found a significant improvement in depression among healthy, obese, and depressed populations (SMD=-0.75, 95% CI (-1.32, -0.19), P < 0.01; SMD=-0.15, 95% CI (-0.31, -0.00), P < 0.01; SMD=-0.15, 95% CI (-0.31, -0.00), P < 0.01, respectively). A 12-week, three-times-a-week, 40-50-minute exercise intervention was more effective in children and adolescents younger than 15 years. Additionally, 30 minutes of exercise had a significant effect (SMD=-0.14, 95% CI (-0,81, -0.01), P < 0.01), and 40–50 minutes of exercise had the best effect (SMD=-0.17, 95% CI (-0,33, -0.02), P < 0.01). Lastly, exercise frequency of three times per week was significant in children and adolescents (SMD=-0.42, 95% CI (-0,66, -0.18), P < 0.01).
Conclusion
Exercise significantly improves depressive symptoms in children and adolescents, with aerobic exercise having the most significant effect. A 12-week, three-times-a-week, 40-50-minute exercise intervention was found to be more effective in younger children and adolescents, regardless of their health status.
Soil Erosion Estimationin the Bagmati River Basin of Nepal Using RUSLE Modeling to Assess Priority areas for Conservation
Authors: Gelal Devendra , Timilsina Sachin , Ayer Santosh , Bhatta Kishor Prasad , Manandhar Bikram , Maharjan Menuka
Published: May 2023

Soil erosion is a major issue, resulting in the loss of topsoil and fertility. This study estimates total and average soil loss, analyses the effect of Land Use and Land Cover (LULC) on soil erosion, and prioritizes the soil erosion risk zone in the Bagmati river basin using The Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) model. Rainfall erosivityfactor (R), Soil erodibility factor, Topographic factor, Cover management factor (C), and Support Practice Factor (P) ranged from 94.25 to 666.11 MJ mm ha− 1 h− 1yr− 1, 0.104 to 0.154, 0 to 24.05, 0 to 0.28, and 0.55 to 1 respectively. The computed annual values of soil loss in the basin ranged from 0 to 201.334 t ha− 1yr− 1in 2010 and 0 to 204.687 t ha− 1yr− 1 in 2016. The average soil loss rate of the basin was 21.5 t ha− 1 yr− 1 in 2016. The average annual soil loss was highest in barren land (10.28 tha− 1) while the minimum was in water bodies (0.69 tha− 1). The maximum erosion potential was found in the agricultural land (204.69 tha− 1). Application of bioengineering techniques can control soil losses in the Bagmati river basin. Overall, the application of modern methods and technology i.e., RUSLE and GIS will be useful for the prediction of potential soil losses from river basins thus, managers and policymakers can implement adequate conservation programs with high erosion risk that will reduce soil loss in the future.