bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the Influential Factors Impacting the Provision of Family-Centered Care for Children with Cerebral Palsy in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alharbi Ahmad Abdullah , Albalwi Abdulaziz Aoudh
Published: November 2023

Family-centered care is widely considered as best practice in pediatric rehabilitation. We aimed to investigate parents’ perception of the family-centeredness of health care services for their children with cerebral palsy (CP) using the Arabic Measure of Processes of Care-20 (AR-MPOC-20). We also explored factors related to the child (sex, secondary impairments, and gross motor classification system level) and environment (family and residential region) that may influence the family-centeredness of services in Saudi Arabia. This was a cross-sectional study of 223 children with CP (age 6 months–18.2 years, M = 6.2 + 3.7 years) and their parents. Generally, parents perceived services as less family-centered. The lowest average score was for ‘Providing General Information’ (M = 2.9 ± 1.5), while ‘Respectful and Supportive Care’ had the highest average (M = 4.6 ± 1.8). Factors influencing the provision of family-centered care included being a female child and a mother’s educational level. In addition, all subscales of AR-MPOC-20 differed by region, p < 0.001, except for ‘Providing Specific Information’ which did not significantly differ by region p = 0.163. Clinicians should consider the families’ need for information regarding their children’s condition and available services, with special attention to the mothers of female children and mothers with low levels of education.
In Situ Synthesis of High Thermoelectric Performance Bi2Te3 Flexible Thin Films through Thermal Diffusion Engineering
Authors: Chen Ning , Ao Dongwei , Guo Junji , Bao Wenke , Chen Yuexing , Zheng Zhuanghao
Published: November 2023

Bi2Te3-based materials are promising candidates for near-room-temperature applications due to their high thermoelectric performance and low cost. Here, an innovative thermal diffusion strategy combined with magnetron sputtering and thermal evaporation methods was employed to fabricate Bi2Te3 flexible thin films (f-TFs) on a flexible polyimide substrate. An in situ synthesis of Bi2Te3 f-TFs with good crystallinity was obtained using a straightforward thermal diffusion method through diffusion of Te into a Bi precursor under low vacuum conditions (1 × 105 Pa). This method offers easy preparation, low cost, and a large-area film preparation for industrialization. The electrical conductivity increases with increasing thermal diffusion temperatures. A high room temperature carrier mobility of ~28.7 cm−2 V−1 S−1 and an electrical conductivity of ~995.6 S cm−1 can be achieved. Then, a moderate room temperature Seebeck coefficient >100 μV K−1 was obtained due to the chemical stoichiometry being close to the standard by optimizing the thermal diffusion temperature. Consequently, a maximum room temperature PF of ~11.6 μW cm−1 K−1 was observed in Bi2Te3 f-TFs prepared using a thermal diffusion temperature of 653 K. The thermal diffusion strategy applied in the thin film preparation represents an effective approach for the preparation of high thermoelectric performance Bi2Te3 f-TFs, offering a promising route for future thermoelectric applications.
Revealing High-Temperature Oxidation and Tensile Behaviors along with Underlying Mechanisms of a Titanium Alloy with Precipitated Titanium Silicide
Authors: Lu Jinwen , Ji Kaile , Zhuo Longchao , Chen Bingqing , Shao Hui , Huo Wangtu , Zhao Yongqing
Published: November 2023

Titanium alloys, with their impressive strength relative to their weight, resistance to corrosion, and compatibility with biological systems, have found extensive applications in various industries. In high-temperature environments, especially within the aerospace sector, it is essential to advance titanium alloys that boast enhanced resistance to oxidation and superior mechanical characteristics. This work investigates the oxidation characteristics and mechanical performances at high temperatures of a titanium alloy with titanium silicide particles. Oxidation at temperatures of 600–700 °C over a span of 8–32 h led to the formation of protective oxide layers and moderate oxidation rates. However, accelerated oxidation and oxide spallation occurred after exposed at 800 °C for a period of 16 h, indicating inadequate oxidation resistance over 800 °C. Subsequent tensile tests at 650 °C revealed intricate dislocation patterns in the α-Ti matrix and their strong interaction with interfaces of α-Ti/Ti5Si3, which is indicative of an efficient load transfer between the precipitates and the matrix. Overall, this study offers fresh perspectives on the oxidation kinetics and the deformation processes of titanium alloys with in-situ Ti5Si3 particles at high temperatures. These insights will guide subsequent alloy development endeavors aiming to broaden the use of titanium alloys in increasingly challenging high-temperature settings.
Rolling Contact Fatigue Damage Analysis of G10CrNi3Mo Steel Bearing Inner Ring by X-ray Measurements
Authors: Qu Haixia , Yao Lisong , Zhan Ke
Published: November 2023

Contact fatigue is the main failure model for bearing systems in steel rolling mills. Characterizing the degree of contact fatigue damage is important for predicting its operating life. In this paper, the X-ray diffraction method (XRD) is used to measure the residual stress state and the diffraction peak width (FWHM, full width at half maximum) of six samples with different degrees of contact fatigue failure. The results show that surface residual stress values increased by more than 70% compared with the original state, while the diffraction peak width values decreased by more than 7% and were strongly correlated with the degree of contact fatigue damage. The XRD measurement of the bearing inner ring enables the characterization of the evolution of the residual stress state and grain distortion due to damage development. FWHM values may be considered an indicator for predicting the degree of contact fatigue.
Population Genetic Structure of a Viviparous Sand Lizard, the Phrynocephalus forsythii in the Tarim Basin, Xinjiang of China
Authors: Duan Jiabao , Nong Jingxian , Jiang Luoxue , Chen Tianying , Zhong Wen , Zhao Wei , Qi Yue , Guo Penghui , Li You
Published: November 2023

The desert ecosystem occupies an important position in the composition of global biodiversity. The Tarim Basin is located in south Xinjiang of China and has the world’s second largest mobile desert, the Taklamakan Desert. As an endemic species in this region, Phrynocephalus forsythii has been demonstrated to have a potentially high extinction risk due to climate change. In order to understand the overall genetic status and provide accordant conservation strategies for the species, we investigated the genetic diversity and population structure of P. forsythii from 15 sites in the Tarim Basin using 21 highly polymorphic microsatellite markers. We found significant genetic structure across the study region. We also revealed generally low levels of gene flow between the 25 sites, suggesting individual dispersal and migration may be restricted within populations. In addition, geographical distance and ambient temperature might be important factors in explaining the observed genetic structure. Our results will provide a scientific basis for the future protection of P. forsythii in this area, as well as an important reference for the conservation and management of biodiversity in desert ecosystems.
Bridging Extremes: The Invertible Bimodal Gumbel Distribution
Authors: Otiniano Cira G. , Silva Eduarda B. , Matsushita Raul Y. , Silva Alan
Published: November 2023

This paper introduces a novel three-parameter invertible bimodal Gumbel distribution, addressing the need for a versatile statistical tool capable of simultaneously modeling maximum and minimum extremes in various fields such as hydrology, meteorology, finance, and insurance. Unlike previous bimodal Gumbel distributions available in the literature, our proposed model features a simple closed-form cumulative distribution function, enhancing its computational attractiveness and applicability. This paper elucidates the behavior and advantages of the invertible bimodal Gumbel distribution through detailed mathematical formulations, graphical illustrations, and exploration of distributional characteristics. We illustrate using financial data to estimate Value at Risk (VaR) from our suggested model, considering maximum and minimum blocks simultaneously.
What Is in a Simplicial Complex? A Metaplex-Based Approach to Its Structure and Dynamics
Authors: Miranda Manuel , Estrada-Rodriguez Gissell , Estrada Ernesto
Published: November 2023

Geometric realization of simplicial complexes makes them a unique representation of complex systems. The existence of local continuous spaces at the simplices level with global discrete connectivity between simplices makes the analysis of dynamical systems on simplicial complexes a challenging problem. In this work, we provide some examples of complex systems in which this representation would be a more appropriate model of real-world phenomena. Here, we generalize the concept of metaplexes to embrace that of geometric simplicial complexes, which also includes the definition of dynamical systems on them. A metaplex is formed by regions of a continuous space of any dimension interconnected by sinks and sources that works controlled by discrete (graph) operators. The definition of simplicial metaplexes given here allows the description of the diffusion dynamics of this system in a way that solves the existing problems with previous models. We make a detailed analysis of the generalities and possible extensions of this model beyond simplicial complexes, e.g., from polytopal and cell complexes to manifold complexes, and apply it to a real-world simplicial complex representing the visual cortex of a macaque.
Validation of the Italian Version of the Community of Inquiry Survey
Authors: Nizzolino Salvatore , Canals Agustí , Temperini Marco
Published: November 2023

This work presents the process of validation of the community of inquiry (CoI) survey in its Italian version. For over two decades, the CoI framework has been used to conceptualize online higher-order teaching/learning experiences as processes of inquiry in which participants collaborate in discourse and critical reflection to cocreate knowledge and achieve meaningful learning. The CoI is hinged on the mutual interaction of three dimensions named presences: teaching presence, social presence, and cognitive presence. The official survey to detect the level of presence perceived by learners has been predominantly conducted in English. In recent years, a number of scholars have deemed that its original format suits at least a B2 level of English proficiency, and several translations in other languages have been validated. Accordingly, the validation of the Italian version aims to improve the accuracy of the CoI questionnaire conducted among native Italian learners (n = 234). Analyses show satisfactory outputs in terms of validity and reliability of the 34 Likert-scale items, whilst adaptations to other languages open new perspectives grounded on cultural variables.
Predicting Loneliness through Digital Footprints on Google and YouTube
Authors: Ahmed Eiman , Xue Liyang , Sankalp Aniket , Kong Haein , Matos Arcadio , Silenzio Vincent , Singh Vivek K.
Published: November 2023

Loneliness is an increasingly prevalent condition with many adverse effects on health and quality of life. Accordingly, there is a growing interest in developing automated or low-cost methods for triaging and supporting individuals encountering psychosocial distress. This study marks an early attempt at building predictive models to detect loneliness automatically using the digital traces of individuals’ online behavior (Google search and YouTube consumption). Based on a longitudinal study with 92 adult participants for eight weeks in 2021, we find that users’ online behavior can help create automated classification tools for loneliness with high accuracy. Furthermore, we observed behavioral differences in digital traces across platforms. The “not lonely” participants had higher aggregated YouTube activity and lower aggregated Google search activity than “lonely” participants. Our results indicate the need for a further platform-aware exploration of technology use for studies interested in developing automated assessment tools for psychological well-being.
Improved Methodology for Power Transformer Loss Evaluation: Algorithm Refinement and Resonance Risk Analysis
Authors: Plienis Mantas , Deveikis Tomas , Jonaitis Audrius , Gudžius Saulius , Konstantinavičiūtė Inga , Putnaitė Donata
Published: November 2023

The decline in power quality within electrical networks is adversely impacting the energy efficiency and safety of transmission elements. The growing prevalence of power electronics has elevated harmonic levels in the grid to an extent where their significance cannot be overlooked. Additionally, the increasing integration of renewable energy sources introduces heightened fluctuations, rendering the prediction and simulation of working modes more challenging. This paper presents an improved algorithm for calculating power transformer losses attributed to harmonics, with a comprehensive validation against simulation results obtained from the Power Factory application and real-world measurements. The advantages of the algorithm are that all evaluations are performed in real-time based on single-point measurements, and the algorithm was easy to implement in a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC). This allows us to receive the exchange of information to energy monitoring systems (EMSs) or with Power factor Correction Units (PFCUs) and control it. To facilitate a more intuitive understanding and visualization of potential hazardous scenarios related to resonance, an extra Dijkstra algorithm was implemented. This augmentation enables the identification of conditions, wherein certain branches exhibit lower resistance than the grid connection point, indicating a heightened risk of resonance and the presence of highly distorted currents. Recognizing that monitoring alone does not inherently contribute to increased energy efficiency, the algorithm was further expanded to assess transformer losses across a spectrum of Power Factory Correction Units power levels. Additionally, a command from a PLC to a PFCU can now be initiated to change the capacitance level and near-resonance working mode. These advancements collectively contribute to a more robust and versatile methodology for evaluating power transformer losses, offering enhanced accuracy and the ability to visualize potentially critical resonance scenarios.
Exhaust Air Recovery System from the Utilisation Stage of Pneumatic System in Double Transmission Double Expansion Approach
Authors: Markowski Jan , Gryboś Dominik , Leszczyński Jacek , Suwa Yohiside
Published: November 2023

Pneumatic machines and systems are highly popular in the automation and mechanisation of production lines in many industry sectors, such as, e.g., food, automotive, production, and packaging. However, the energy efficiency of the pneumatic system is very low at about 10 to 20% The exhaust air from pneumatic machines has high energy, which is considered waste. This study introduces a novel energy recovery machine designed for integration into industrial compressed air systems. The authors describe the potential of the recovery machine within an industrial environment and present a developed exhaust air recovery system which collects exhaust air and converts it into electricity. Comprehensive industrial tests were conducted to evaluate its performance. The results, along with a detailed analysis, are presented, thereby showing there machine’s capabilities in recovering energy from compressed air processes. This research provides valuable insights into the practical implementation and benefits of deploying such energy recovery systems at an industrial scale. The findings demonstrate the machine’s potential to enhance energy efficiency and reduce operational costs in a wide array of industrial applications that are reliant on compressed air.
Evaluation of Fungicides as Protective and Curative Treatments against Canker Disease of Eucalyptus urograndis Caused by Chrysoporthe deuterocubensis in Malaysia
Authors: Ambrose Annya , Peter Remun Attlee Banyang , Shamsul Kamar Nura Adilla , Mohamad Pazi Ahmad Mustapha , Wan Azhar Wan Muhammad Azrul , Awing Norida Hanim , Liam Jack , Terhem Razak
Published: November 2023

Over the years, Eucalyptus plantations have rapidly expanded in Sarawak, Malaysia, accounting for 19% of the total forest plantation area. In a routine forest health surveillance conducted in 2022 at Sarawak, Malaysia, tree stands of Eucalyptus urograndis (Eucalyptus grandis × Eucalyptus urophylla hybrid) were detected with symptoms of stem canker disease caused by Chrysoporthe infection. Given the limited information on the chemical control of Chrysoporthe stem canker disease, there is a growing need to develop effective chemical control strategies to protect and cure Chrysoporthe infection on E. urograndis trees. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the causal pathogen of this stem canker disease in 7-year-old E. urograndis trees in Sarawak, Malaysia, and evaluate the efficacy of various fungicides as curative or protectant treatments on canker infection using artificial inoculation methods. Fungal isolates were first collected and subjected to molecular identification and pathogenicity analysis. Then, in vitro efficacy tests were evaluated using five licensed fungicides: thiram, prochloraz manganese chloride, copper hydroxide, dimethomorph, and mancozeb. Subsequently, the performance of these fungicides was assessed through preventive and curative field experiments on 10-year-old E. urograndis trees using the artificial inoculation technique. Based on the morphological and phylogenetic analysis of the ITS1/ITS4, β-tubulin 2 (BT2), and the combined ITS1/ITS4 and BT2 sequences extracted from 20 fungal isolates, Chrysoporthe deuterocubensis was identified as the causal pathogen of the canker disease, with isolate CHRY18 recording the highest virulence. The in vitro efficacy tests showed that prochloraz manganese chloride achieved 100% inhibition against C. deuterocubensis at 1.0 mg/mL. In the preventive experiment, thiram significantly inhibited C. deuterocubensis infection, yielding the shortest lesion length (19.40 mm) compared to the non-treated control (47.48 mm) at 20 weeks post-inoculation. In the curative experiment, a significant reduction of 54.7% in lesion length was observed in inoculated symptomatic trees after 20 weeks of post-fungicide treatment with copper hydroxide. In conclusion, this study demonstrated prochloraz manganese chloride, thiram, and copper hydroxide as effective chemical controls of C. deuterocubensis stem canker on E. urograndis.
Quantitative Assessment of Forest–Tundra Patch Dynamics in Polar Urals Due to Modern Climate Change
Authors: Mikhailovich Anna , Fomin Valery
Published: November 2023

The spatial and temporal dynamics of the Siberian larch (Larix sibirica Ledeb.) at the upper limit of its growth on the south-eastern macroslope of the Rai-Iz massif (Polar Urals, Russia) during the second half of the 20th to the beginning of the 21st century were analyzed. Current climate changes were accompanied by increased stand density on previously wooded parts of the mountain slopes and the appearance of new forest generations in lightly wooded or unforested parts of the studied area. Our original method for the automated recognition of boundaries among the key phytocoenohoras (closed forest, open forest, light forest, and tundra with single trees) is universally applicable and improves objectivity in selecting boundaries for these phytocoenohora types. With regard to the total area of the study site, the area of closed forest, open forest, and light forest, respectively, increased from 2.9% to 6.8%, from 9.6% to 13.1%, and from 7.5% to 15.6%, while the area of tundra lots with single trees decreased from 79.9% to 64.5%. Phytocoenohora type replacement in the course of the study period was characterized by a transition from forms with lower density to higher-density forms. Changes in the opposite direction were not discovered. Natural wind protection barriers for young larch tree generations included hummocks and groups of grown trees. The process of gradual tundra and forest tundra forestation then began on the leeward side of the barrier close to seed-producing trees.
Lightweight Privacy-Preserving Remote User Authentication and Key Agreement Protocol for Next-Generation IoT-Based Smart Healthcare
Authors: Ashraf Zeeshan , Mahmood Zahid , Iqbal Muddesar
Published: November 2023

The advancement and innovations in wireless communication technologies including the Internet of Things have massively changed the paradigms of health-based services. In particular, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the trends of working from home have been promoted. Wireless body area network technology frameworks help sufferers in remotely obtaining scientific remedies from physicians through the Internet without paying a visit to the clinics. IoT sensor nodes are incorporated into the clinical device to allow health workers to consult the patients’ fitness conditions in real time. Insecure wireless communication channels make unauthorized access to fitness-related records and manipulation of IoT sensor nodes attached to the patient’s bodies possible, as a result of security flaws. As a result, IoT-enabled devices are threatened by a number of well-known attacks, including impersonation, replay, man-in-the-middle, and denial-of-service assaults. Modern authentication schemes do solve these issues, but they frequently involve challenging mathematical concepts that raise processing and transmission costs. In this paper, we propose a lightweight, secure, and efficient symmetric key exchange algorithm and remote user authentication scheme. Our research proposal presents a successful privacy-protecting method for remote users and provides protection against known attacks. When compared to conventional options, this technique significantly reduces calculation costs by up to 37.68% and transmission costs by up to 32.55%.
Comparative Description and Analysis of Oyster Aquaculture in Selected Atlantic Regions: Production, Market Dynamics, and Consumption Patterns
Authors: Iitembu Johannes A. , Fitzgerald Daniel , Altintzoglou Themistoklis , Boudry Pierre , Britz Peter , Byron Carrie J. , Delago Daniel , Girard Sophie , Hannon Colin , Kafensztok Marcia , Lagreze Francisco , Legat Jefferson Francisco Alves , Legat Angela Puchnick , Michaelis Adriane K. , Pleym Ingelinn Eskildsen , Sühnel Simone , Walton William , Strand Åsa
Published: November 2023

In the face of an increasing world population and a subsequent need for an increase in sustainable and healthy food production, low trophic species, such as oysters, emerge as a promising alternative. However, regional variations in oyster production techniques, market dynamics, and consumption patterns create challenges for both the global and local industry’s growth. In this study, a descriptive qualitative analysis of oyster markets across seven Atlantic regions was carried out. The Pacific oyster (Crassostrea gigas) was found to be farmed in most Atlantic regions except the US but is classified as invasive in Sweden and potentially invasive in South Africa. Other farmed and/or harvested species include native species (C. gasar and C. rhizophorae) in Brazil, the American cupped oyster (C. virginica) in the US, and the European flat oyster (Ostrea edulis) in France, Sweden, and the US. In Irish farms, Pacific oysters are primarily for export to European markets. The marine aquaculture sectors of Sweden, South Africa, and Namibia, as well as Brazil’s farming for C. gasar, were found to be underdeveloped. This study also observed a variation in licensing, property rights, and regulatory frameworks. Financial challenges for small businesses, ecological implications of seed production techniques, biosecurity risks, and public health considerations are emphasized as critical areas for attention. This study offers valuable insights into the selected markets and can serve as a useful resource for policymakers, aquaculture practitioners, and stakeholders in optimizing global shellfish industry strategies.
Forced Convection in Porous Medium Using Triply Periodical Minimum Surfaces
Authors: Saghir Mohamad Ziad , So Jordan , Rasheed Heba , Ilesaliev Dauren
Published: November 2023

Recent developments in the 3D printing of metals are attracting many researchers and engineers. Tailoring a porous structure using triply periodic minimum surfaces is becoming an excellent approach for cooling electronic equipment. The availability of metallic 3D printing encourages researchers to study cooling systems using porous media. In the present article, we designed a porous structure using a gyroid model produced using 3D printing. Porous aluminum has a 0.7, 0.8, and 0.9 porosity, respectively. The porous medium is tested experimentally using distilled fluid as the cooling liquid, while the structure is subject to bottom heating with a heat flux of 30,000 W/m2. A different inlet velocity from 0.05 m/s to 0.25 m/s is applied. On the numerical side, the porous medium is modeled as a porous structure, and only the Navier–Stokes equations and the energy equation were solved using the finite element technique. In addition, an excellent agreement between the experimental measurement and numerical calculation, an optimum porosity of 0.8 was obtained. The performance evaluation criterion led us to believe that pressure drop plays a significant role in heat enhancement for this type of gyroid structure. As the porosity increases, the boundary layer becomes more noticeable.
Advances in Fractional-Order Neural Networks, Volume II
Authors: Stamova Ivanka , Stamov Gani , Li Xiaodi
Published: November 2023

Fractional-order neural network models have become an active research subject and have attracted increasing attention in many fields [...]
Real-Time PCR-Based Screening for Homozygous SMN2 Deletion Using Residual Dried Blood Spots
Authors: Bouike Yoshihiro , Sakima Makoto , Taninishi Yuya , Matsutani Takanori , Noguchi Yoriko , Bo Ryosuke , Awano Hiroyuki , Nishio Hisahide
Published: November 2023

The survival motor neuron 2 (SMN2) gene is a recognized modifier gene of spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). However, our knowledge about the role of SMN2—other than its modification of SMA phenotypes—is very limited. Discussions regarding the relationship between homozygous SMN2 deletion and motor neuron diseases, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, have been mainly based on retrospective epidemiological studies of the diseases, and the precise relationship remains inconclusive. In the present study, we first estimated that the frequency of homozygous SMN2 deletion was ~1 in 20 in Japan. We then established a real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based screening method using residual dried blood spots to identify infants with homozygous SMN2 deletion. This method can be applied to a future prospective cohort study to clarify the relationship between homozygous SMN2 deletion and motor neuron diseases. In our real-time PCR experiment, both PCR (low annealing temperatures) and blood (high hematocrit values and low white blood cell counts) conditions were associated with incorrect results (i.e., false negatives and positives). Together, our findings not only help to elucidate the role of SMN2, but also aid in our understanding of the pitfalls of current SMA newborn screening programs for detecting homozygous SMN1 deletions.
Comment on Di Giosaffatte et al. A Novel Hypothesis on Choroideremia-Manifesting Female Carriers: Could CHM In-Frame Variants Exert a Dominant Negative Effect? A Case Report. Genes 2022, 13, 1268
Authors: Fry Lewis E. , MacLaren Robert E.
Published: November 2023

The recent publication of Di Giosaffatte et al. [...]
Can Extractive Industries Make Countries Happy? What Are Potential Implications for the Geoscientist? Overview and Case Study Examples from Papua New Guinea and Worldwide
Authors: Mosusu Nathan , Maim Gideon , Petterson Michael , Holm Robert , Lakamanga Arnold , Espi Joseph. O.
Published: November 2023

Geoscientists are involved in both the upstream and downstream side of the extractive industries. As explorationists and field geologists, they are often the first technical people related to extractive industries that communities meet. It is imperative in an increasingly globalized and holistic world that geoscientists gain greater awareness of the socio-economic impact of extractive industries and become a more proactive part of improving outcomes for all with respect to extractive industries. When Jigme Singye Wangchuk, the King of Bhutan, first suggested the concept of ‘Gross National Happiness’ (GNH) in 1972, it was met with widespread cynicism and puzzlement. Was the concept meaningful in a hard, economically competitive world? A series of measures, including the Human Development Index (HDI), the Gini Coefficient (GC), and the now annual World Happiness Report (WHR), are evolutionary responses to the 1972 GNH and are widely accepted as proxy measures of holistic human progress. These measures go beyond the narrow confines of Gross Domestic Product and similar economic proxies, placing economic parameters alongside the social, environmental, spiritual, human rights, health, and holistic societal issues. The broad conclusions of the plethora of metrics are that ‘happiness’ links to issues and ideas such as equity, minimal economic inequality, excellent governance, human rights, individual freedom, and so forth. We ask the question: what is the relationship between extractive industries (EIs) and GNH? We present a wide range of data and analytical diagrams/text examining potential correlations and associations between GNH and EIs. We examine potential relationships using global data and case studies for Papua New Guinea, Mongolia, the DRC, and Jamaica. The conclusions of this analysis of course suggest a complex relationship between EIs and GNH. We acknowledge that in situations of weak governance and institutions, EIs struggle to make any tangible difference with respect to GNH. A counter conclusion that EIs may even be a major cause of weak governance, which in turn suppresses happiness, must be seriously considered. We document examples where EIs have made a definitive positive improvement to GNH. Data suggest that hydrocarbon-rich countries have made better progress with respect to GNH than mineral-rich countries. However, the main conclusion is that the link between EIs and GNH remains a work in progress, and that a narrow focus on profit and shareholder return is an antithetical approach to the GNH paradigm. A key recommendation is that industry must adopt a far more active role (rather than merely a passive role) with respect to translating the many potential benefits of EIs into GNH than has hitherto been the case.
Short- and Mid-Term Forecasting of Pan-Arctic Sea Ice Volume Using Variational Mode Decomposition and Bidirectional Long Short-Term Memory
Authors: Ahajjam Aymane , Putkonen Jaakko , Pasch Timothy J. , Zhu Xun
Published: November 2023

The well-documented decrease in the annual minimum Arctic sea ice extent over the past few decades is an alarming indicator of current climate change. However, much less is known about the thickness of the Arctic sea ice. Developing accurate forecasting models is critical to better predict its changes and monitor the impacts of global warming on the total Arctic sea ice volume (SIV). Significant improvements in forecasting performance are possible with the advances in signal processing and deep learning. Accordingly, here, we set out to utilize the recent advances in machine learning to develop non-physics-based techniques for forecasting the sea ice volume with low computational costs. In particular, this paper aims to provide a step-wise decision process required to develop a more accurate forecasting model over short- and mid-term horizons. This work integrates variational mode decomposition (VMD) and bidirectional long short-term memory (BiLSTM) for multi-input multi-output pan-Arctic SIV forecasting. Different experiments are conducted to identify the impact of several aspects, including multivariate inputs, signal decomposition, and deep learning, on forecasting performance. The empirical results indicate that (i) the proposed hybrid model is consistently effective in time-series processing and forecasting, with average improvements of up to 60% compared with the case of no decomposition and over 40% compared with other deep learning models in both forecasting horizons and seasons; (ii) the optimization of the VMD level is essential for optimal performance; and (iii) the use of the proposed technique with a divide-and-conquer strategy demonstrates superior forecasting performance.
Lumbar Pain in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis and Knowledge about Physiotherapeutic Methods for Combating Pain
Authors: Odzimek Martyna , Brola Waldemar , Opara Józef
Published: November 2023

Background: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the intensity and frequency of low back pain (LBP) in people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) and patients’ knowledge of physiotherapeutic methods for combating LBP. Methods: This study included all MS patients attending consecutive follow-up visits for treatment related to MS between March and May 2023. Only current pain sensations in the lumbar spine were taken into account. The inclusion criteria were age 18–60 years, a definite diagnosis of MS according to the 2017 McDonald criteria, treatment with disease-modifying drugs (DMTs), and consent to participate in the study. This study was carried out using an original survey questionnaire and a Visual Analogue Scale. PwMS were divided into three age groups: 18–30 years, 31–50 years, and over 50 years. Results: Ninety PwMS (68 women and 22 men) were included in the study. The mean duration of the disease was 9.5 ± 4.9 years, and the mean EDSS was 3.5 ± 1.6. Most patients had a relapsing-remitting form of the disease. Overall, 68.9% of PwMS felt low back pain (n = 62). The relationship tested was statistically significant (p < 0.001), and the strength of the relationship was high (rc = 0.695). The average level of low back pain among PwMS was 4.7 out of 10 on the VAS. The prevalence of LBP was higher in female patients (p < 0.001), patients with a secondary progressive form of MS (p < 0.001), and patients with a longer duration of disease (p < 0.05). The most widely used methods for treating LBP were kinesitherapy and manual therapy. Conclusions: LBP is common in patients with multiple sclerosis. Female sex, a secondary progressive form of MS, and a longer duration of disease increase the risk of LBP. It is important to implement properly planned physiotherapy activities and educate patients on how to combat LBP.
Psychiatry Residents’ Attitudes towards Spirituality in Psychiatric Practice in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Kattan Wid E. , Alkhiri Aqeel T. , Abughanim Sultan A. , Taeyb Mohammad T. , Arafah Maria A. , Alzaben Faten N. , Alhazmi Maher A.
Published: November 2023

Objectives: This study examined residents’ attitudes and practices regarding the relevance of spirituality in psychiatry within Saudi residency training programs; their experiences and comfort levels in addressing patients’ spiritual concerns; and their interest and past learning experiences in this area of training and practice. Methods: This cross-sectional study targeted trainees and recent graduates of residency programs across Saudi Arabia. The study materials consisted of an electronic questionnaire that was adapted with permission. Results: The total number of respondents was 71 out of 180 potential participants (39.44%). Most residents (64.8%) felt that it was appropriate to inquire about the spiritual aspects of patients’ lives and that it was essential to address spiritual problems or needs that patients may have within the clinical setting (71.8%). Many participants (40.80%) described themselves as being both religious and spiritual. Most respondents (94.4%) did not receive any training on spirituality and psychiatry, and 80.3% said they would like to learn more about the subject. Conclusions: Our findings indicate that residents have an overall high level of personal spirituality and that they feel it is relevant in clinical practice. However, they have not had much training in this area and are interested in learning more. Educational initiatives would be beneficial for improving the effectiveness of residents and patient care in this untapped area of spirituality in psychiatry.
Estimating Thermal Impact on Groundwater Systems from Heat Pump Technologies: A Simplified Method for High Flow Rates
Authors: Krcmar David , Kovacs Tibor , Molnar Matej , Hodasova Kamila , Zatlakovic Martin
Published: November 2023

This research delves into the potential thermal effects on underground water systems caused by the use of thermal technologies involving extraction and injection wells. We developed a unique approach that combines straightforward calculations with computer-based modeling to evaluate thermal impacts when water flow rates exceed 2 L/s. Our model, based on a system with two wells and a steady water flow, was used to pinpoint the area around the thermal technology where the temperature varied by more than 1 °C. Our findings suggest that the data-based relationships we derived from our model calculations provide a cautious estimate of the size of the affected area, or ‘thermal cloud’. However, it is important to note that our model’s assumptions might not fully account for the complex variables present in real-world underground water systems. This highlights a need for more research and testing. A key contribution of our study is the development of a new method to assess the thermal impact of operations involving heat pumps. In conclusion, while our proposed method needs more fine-tuning, it shows promise in estimating temperature changes within water-bearing rock layers, or aquifers. This is crucial in the effective use of thermal technologies while also ensuring the protection and sustainable management of our underground water resources.
Internet in the Middle of Nowhere: Performance of Geoportals in Rural Areas According to Core Web Vitals
Authors: Król Karol , Sroka Wojciech
Published: November 2023

The spatial planning system in Poland is undergoing a fundamental reform. It emphasises the digital representation of spatial data. Low performance of geoportals, no Internet access, or poor connectivity can contribute to the exclusion from the spatial planning process, and consequently to the exclusion from a specific part of public life. Considering these developments, the present study seems relevant by pointing out the issue with geoportal performance and availability of quality Internet in rural areas. The primary contribution of the article is (1) results of performance measurements for selected geoportals; (2) presentation of measuring tools and performance indices combined with methods for ad-hoc performance measuring; and (3) presentation of potential actions to improve geoportal performance on the device with which it is used. The article offers case studies where the performance of selected geoportals was tested in rural mountainous areas with limited Internet access. Five geoportals were tested with PageSpeed Insights (PSI), WebPageTest, GTmetrix, Pingdom, and GiftOfSpeed. Core Web Vitals indices were analysed: Largest Contentful Paint (LCP), First Input Delay (FID), Cumulative Layout Shift (CLS), and First Contentful Paint (FCP). The author verified values of the Speed Index and Fully Loaded Time along with other performance indices, like GTmetrix Structure. The study failed to provide unambiguous evidence that radio link users in rural areas could experience problems with geoportal performance, although the results seem to suggest it indirectly. PSI Lab Data and Field Data tests revealed a relatively low performance of the geoportals. The Performance index remained below 50 in most cases, which is ‘Poor’ according to the PSI scale. The fully loaded time exceeded 10 s for all the geoportals and 20 s in some cases (Lab Data). It means that the perceived performance of the tested geoportals on a radio link in rural areas is most probably even lower. The case studies demonstrated further that the user has limited possibilities to speed up map applications. It is possible to slightly improve the geoportal experience through the optimisation of the device locally, but the responsibility to ensure geoportal performance is mainly the publisher’s.
Bile Microbiome Signatures Associated with Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma Compared to Benign Disease: A UK Pilot Study
Authors: Merali Nabeel , Chouari Tarak , Terroire Julien , Jessel Maria-Danae , Liu Daniel S. K. , Smith James-Halle , Wooldridge Tyler , Dhillon Tony , Jiménez José I. , Krell Jonathan , Roberts Keith J. , Rockall Timothy A. , Velliou Eirini , Sivakumar Shivan , Giovannetti Elisa , Demirkan Ayse , Annels Nicola E. , Frampton Adam E.
Published: November 2023

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has a very poor survival. The intra-tumoural microbiome can influence pancreatic tumourigenesis and chemoresistance and, therefore, patient survival. The role played by bile microbiota in PDAC is unknown. We aimed to define bile microbiome signatures that can effectively distinguish malignant from benign tumours in patients presenting with obstructive jaundice caused by benign and malignant pancreaticobiliary disease. Prospective bile samples were obtained from 31 patients who underwent either Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) or Percutaneous Transhepatic Cholangiogram (PTC). Variable regions (V3–V4) of the 16S rRNA genes of microorganisms present in the samples were amplified by Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and sequenced. The cohort consisted of 12 PDAC, 10 choledocholithiasis, seven gallstone pancreatitis and two primary sclerosing cholangitis patients. Using the 16S rRNA method, we identified a total of 135 genera from 29 individuals (12 PDAC and 17 benign). The bile microbial beta diversity significantly differed between patients with PDAC vs. benign disease (Permanova p = 0.0173). The separation of PDAC from benign samples is clearly seen through unsupervised clustering of Aitchison distance. We found three genera to be of significantly lower abundance among PDAC samples vs. benign, adjusting for false discovery rate (FDR). These were Escherichia (FDR = 0.002) and two unclassified genera, one from Proteobacteria (FDR = 0.002) and one from Enterobacteriaceae (FDR = 0.011). In the same samples, the genus Streptococcus (FDR = 0.033) was found to be of increased abundance in the PDAC group. We show that patients with obstructive jaundice caused by PDAC have an altered microbiome composition in the bile compared to those with benign disease. These bile-based microbes could be developed into potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for PDAC and warrant further investigation.
Comparative Transcriptome Sequencing and Endogenous Phytohormone Content of Annual Grafted Branches of Zelkova schneideriana and Its Dwarf Variety HenTianGao
Authors: Huang Chenfei , Jin Xiaoling , Lin Haiyan , He Jinsong , Chen Yan
Published: November 2023

Zelkova schneideriana is a fast-growing tree species endemic to China. Recent surveys and reports have highlighted a continued decline in its natural populations; therefore, it is included in the Red List of Threatened Species by The International Union for Conservation of Nature. A new variety “HenTianGao” (H) has been developed with smaller plant height, slow growth, and lower branching points. In this study, we attempted to understand the differences in plant height of Z. schneideriana (J) and its dwarf variety H. We determined the endogenous hormone content in the annual grafted branches of both J and H. J exhibited higher gibberellic acid (GA)-19 and trans-Zeatin (tZ) levels, whereas H had higher levels of indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) catabolite 2-oxindole-3-acetic acid (OxIAA), IAA-Glu conjugate, and jasmonic acid (JA) (and its conjugate JA-Ile). The transcriptome comparison showed differential regulation of 20,944 genes enriched in growth and development, signaling, and metabolism-related pathways. The results show that the differential phytohormone level (IAA, JA, tZ, and GA) was consistent with the expression of the genes associated with their biosynthesis. The differences in relative OxIAA, IAA-Glu, GA19, trans-Zeatin, JA, and JA-Ile levels were linked to changes in respective signaling-related genes. We also observed significant differences in the expression of cell size, number, proliferation, cell wall biosynthesis, and remodeling-related genes in J and H. The differences in relative endogenous hormone levels, expression of biosynthesis, and signaling genes provide a theoretical basis for understanding the plant height differences in Z. schneideriana.
Cellular Responses to Widespread DNA Replication Stress
Authors: Nickoloff Jac A. , Jaiswal Aruna S. , Sharma Neelam , Williamson Elizabeth A. , Tran Manh T. , Arris Dominic , Yang Ming , Hromas Robert
Published: November 2023

Replicative DNA polymerases are blocked by nearly all types of DNA damage. The resulting DNA replication stress threatens genome stability. DNA replication stress is also caused by depletion of nucleotide pools, DNA polymerase inhibitors, and DNA sequences or structures that are difficult to replicate. Replication stress triggers complex cellular responses that include cell cycle arrest, replication fork collapse to one-ended DNA double-strand breaks, induction of DNA repair, and programmed cell death after excessive damage. Replication stress caused by specific structures (e.g., G-rich sequences that form G-quadruplexes) is localized but occurs during the S phase of every cell division. This review focuses on cellular responses to widespread stress such as that caused by random DNA damage, DNA polymerase inhibition/nucleotide pool depletion, and R-loops. Another form of global replication stress is seen in cancer cells and is termed oncogenic stress, reflecting dysregulated replication origin firing and/or replication fork progression. Replication stress responses are often dysregulated in cancer cells, and this too contributes to ongoing genome instability that can drive cancer progression. Nucleases play critical roles in replication stress responses, including MUS81, EEPD1, Metnase, CtIP, MRE11, EXO1, DNA2-BLM, SLX1-SLX4, XPF-ERCC1-SLX4, Artemis, XPG, FEN1, and TATDN2. Several of these nucleases cleave branched DNA structures at stressed replication forks to promote repair and restart of these forks. We recently defined roles for EEPD1 in restarting stressed replication forks after oxidative DNA damage, and for TATDN2 in mitigating replication stress caused by R-loop accumulation in BRCA1-defective cells. We also discuss how insights into biological responses to genome-wide replication stress can inform novel cancer treatment strategies that exploit synthetic lethal relationships among replication stress response factors.