bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling the Dynamics of Longitudinal Processes in Education. A Tutorial with R for the VaSSTra Method
Authors: López-Pernas Sonsoles , Saqr Mohammed
Published: June 2024

Modeling a longitudinal process in educational research brings a lot of variability over time. The modeling procedure becomes even harder when using multivariate continuous variables, e.g., clicks on learning resources, time spent online, and interactions with peers. In fact, most human behavioral constructs are an amalgam of interrelated features with complex fluctuations over time. Modeling such processes requires a method that takes into account the multidimensional nature of the examined construct as well as the temporal evolution. In this chapter we describe the VaSSTra method, which combines person-based methods, sequence analysis and life-events methods. Throughout the chapter, we discuss how to derive states from different variables related to students, how to construct sequences from students’ longitudinal progression of states, and how to identify and study distinct trajectories of sequences that undergo a similar evolution. We also cover some advanced properties of sequences that can help us analyze and compare trajectories. We illustrate the method through a tutorial using the R programming language.
Community Detection in Learning Networks Using R
Authors: Hernández-García Ángel , Cuenca-Enrique Carlos , Traxler Adrienne , López-Pernas Sonsoles , Conde-González Miguel Ángel , Saqr Mohammed
Published: June 2024

In the field of social network analysis, understanding interactions and group structures takes a center stage. This chapter focuses on finding such groups, constellations or ensembles of actors who can be grouped together, a process often referred to as community detection, particularly in the context of educational research. Community detection aims to uncover tightly knit subgroups of nodes who share strong connectivity within a network or have connectivity patterns that demarcates them from the others. This chapter explores various algorithms and techniques to detect these groups or cohesive clusters. Using well-known R packages, the chapter presents the core approach of identifying and visualizing densely connected subgroups in learning networks.
Dissimilarity-Based Cluster Analysis of Educational Data: A Comparative Tutorial Using R
Authors: Murphy Keefe , López-Pernas Sonsoles , Saqr Mohammed
Published: June 2024

Clustering is a collective term which refers to a broad range of techniques aimed at uncovering patterns and subgroups within data. Interest lies in partitioning heterogeneous data into homogeneous groups, whereby cases within a group are more similar to each other than cases assigned to other groups, without foreknowledge of the group labels. Clustering is also an important component of several exploratory methods, analytical techniques, and modelling approaches and therefore has been practiced for decades in education research. In this context, finding patterns or differences among students enables teachers and researchers to improve their understanding of the diversity of students—and their learning processes—and tailor their supports to different needs. This chapter introduces the theory underpinning dissimilarity-based clustering methods. Then, we focus on some of the most widely-used heuristic dissimilarity-based clustering algorithms; namely,K-means,K-medoids, and agglomerative hierarchical clustering. TheK-means clustering algorithm is described including the outline of the arguments of the relevant R functions and the main limitations and practical concerns to be aware of in order to obtain the best performance. We also discuss the relatedK-medoids algorithm and its own associated concerns and function arguments. We later introduce agglomerative hierarchical clustering and the related R functions while outlining various choices available to practitioners and their implications. Methods for choosing the optimal number of clusters are provided, especially criteria that can guide the choice of clustering solution among multiple competing methodologies—with a particular focus on evaluating solutions obtained using different dissimilarity measures—and not only the choice of the number of clustersKfor a given method. All of these issues are demonstrated in detail with a tutorial in R using a real-life educational data set.
A Construction of Einstein Solvmanifolds not Based on Nilsolitons
Authors: Conti Diego , Rossi Federico A. , Segnan Dalmasso Romeo
Published: June 2024

We construct indefinite Einstein solvmanifolds that are standard, but not of pseudo-Iwasawa type. Thus, the underlying Lie algebras take the form $$\mathfrak {g}\rtimes _D\mathbb {R}$$

g

⋊
D

R

, where $$\mathfrak {g}$$
g
is a nilpotent Lie algebra and D is a nonsymmetric derivation. Considering nonsymmetric derivations has the consequence that $$\mathfrak {g}$$
g
is not a nilsoliton, but satisfies a more general condition. Our construction is based on the notion of nondiagonal triple on a nice diagram. We present an algorithm to classify nondiagonal triples and the associated Einstein metrics. With the use of a computer, we obtain all solutions up to dimension 5, and all solutions in dimension $$\le 9$$

≤
9

that satisfy an additional technical restriction. By comparing curvatures, we show that the Einstein solvmanifolds of dimension $$\le 5$$

≤
5

that we obtain by our construction are not isometric to a standard extension of a nilsoliton.
The metal cofactor: stationary or mobile?
Authors: Hagedoorn Peter-Leon , Pabst Martin , Hanefeld Ulf
Published: June 2024

Metal cofactors are essential for catalysis and enable countless conversions in nature. Interestingly, the metal cofactor is not always static but mobile with movements of more than 4 Å. These movements of the metal can have different functions. In the case of the xylose isomerase and medium-chain dehydrogenases, it clearly serves a catalytic purpose. The metal cofactor moves during substrate activation and even during the catalytic turnover. On the other hand, in class II aldolases, the enzymes display resting states and active states depending on the movement of the catalytic metal cofactor. This movement is caused by substrate docking, causing the metal cofactor to take the position essential for catalysis. As these metal movements are found in structurally and mechanistically unrelated enzymes, it has to be expected that this metal movement is more common than currently perceived.

Key points

• Metal ions are essential cofactors that can move during catalysis.

• In class II aldolases, the metal cofactors can reside in a resting state and an active state.

• In MDR, the movement of the metal cofactor is essential for substrate docking.

Graphical abstract
Long-term results after transoral outlet reduction (TORe) of the gastrojejunal anastomosis for secondary weight regain and dumping syndrome after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass
Authors: Lovis Jonathan , Fischli Stefan , Mongelli Francesco , Mühlhäusser Julia , Aepli Patrick , Sykora Martin , Scheiwiller Andreas , Metzger Jürg , Gass Jörn-Markus
Published: June 2024

Background

Bariatric surgery has been proven to be the most effective therapy for obesity and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) is one of the most commonly performed procedure. However, weight regain and dumping syndrome occur over time. The transoral outlet reduction (TORe) procedure using an endoscopic suturing device may be an option to treat these conditions. We aimed to analyze outcome parameters and long-term results for this endoscopic technique.

Methods

A retrospective data analysis of patients who underwent TORe using an endoscopic suturing system at our institution from January 2015 to December 2020 was performed. A total of 71 subjects were included. Forty-five patients received the intervention for weight regain, 9 for dumping syndrome and 17 for both. The primary endpoint was weight stabilization or weight loss for subjects with weight regain, and resolution of symptoms for those with dumping syndrome. Secondary endpoints were intraoperative complications, procedure time, length of hospital stay and diameter of gastrojejunal anastomosis 1 year post-intervention.

Results

The median size of the gastrojejunal anastomosis was estimated at 30 mm before intervention, and after performing a median of 3 endoscopic sutures, the median estimated gastrojejunal anastomosis width was reduced to 9.5 mm. Eight perioperative complications occurred. Overall mean follow-up was 26.5 months. All interventions achieved weight stabilization or weight loss or resolution of dumping symptoms within the first 3 months, 98.2% at 12 months, 91.4% at 24 months and 75.0% at 48 months. In 22/26 subjects a persisting improvement of dumping syndrome was achieved.

Conclusions

TORe is a safe and effective procedure in the treatment of patients with dumping syndrome after laparoscopic RYGB, the effect on weight stabilization is less significant. A prospective randomized trial should be conducted to compare the effects of TORe with other surgical methods like banding the gastrojejunal anastomosis.
Genetic features of BEL-1-producing and KPC-2-producing E. coli from hospital wastewater: human source or sewages adaptation
Authors: Romero-Oraá Laura , Pulido Marina R. , Galán Fatima , Palacios María Victoria García , Pascual Alvaro , López-Cerero Lorena
Published: June 2024

Hospital sewage is an ecosystem that facilitates the transfer of antibiotic and heavy metal resistance genes and the interaction of human and environmental bacteria. In this environment, we have detected the presence of 7 KPC-2 and BEL-1 co-producing E. coli isolates of two different clones over a 10-month period in the same hospital. All isolates carried blaKPC-2 and the operon mer on the same IncP plasmid of similar size and an IncN plasmid of different size each clone carrying blaBEL-1. Both IncN-blaBEL-1 plasmids shared a 77 kb region containing blaBEL-1 alongside with fosE, blaOXA-10 and aac(6’)-1b genes in a class 3 integron within a Tn3 transposon. The major IncN plasmid contained in addition a region homolog to P1-like bacteriophage RCS47, including the lytic RepL and lysogenic proteins, but other phage regions were incomplete. The characters such as the temporal persistence in sewage, the absence of colonized patients in the hospital or in the region, the presence of a p1 phage-plasmid fusion and the infrequent class 3 integron as genetic platform would indicate that BEL-1-producing isolates could have been generated in situ by adaptation to human sewage. Part of the microbiota in these discharges could be explained by the interactions of sewage ecosystems and not derive directly from the hospital.
Predictability of combining Technetium-99m-galactosyl human serum albumin single-photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography and indocyanine green clearance test for posthepatectomy liver failure
Authors: Okajima Yukinori , Yanagisawa Shin , Yamada Akira , Notake Tsuyoshi , Shimizu Akira , Soejima Yuji , Fujinaga Yasunari
Published: June 2024

Purpose

To evaluate the predictive ability of combining Technetium-99m-galactosyl human serum albumin (99mTc‑GSA) single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT)/computed tomography (CT) volume and plasma clearance rate of indocyanine green (ICGK) for posthepatectomy liver failure (PHLF).

Materials and methods

Fifty patients who underwent 99mTc-GSA scintigraphy as a preoperative examination for segmentectomy or more from July 2021 to June 2023 were evaluated prospectively. Patients were divided into two groups according to the presence or absence of posthepatectomy liver failure (PHLF). Total functional liver volume (t-FLV) and remnant FLV (r-FLV) were measured from 99mTc-GSA SPECT/CT image. Future liver remnant ICGK (ICGK-F) was calculated by ICGK and remnant liver volume from CT. Area under the curve (AUC) of ICGK-F, r-FLV, r-FLV/t-FLV, ICGK × r-FLV, ICGK × r-FLV/t-FLV was calculated to evaluate predictive ability of each parameter for PHLF.

Results

PHLF was occurred in 7 patients. AUC of ICGK × r-FLV was significantly higher than that of ICGK-F (0.99; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.96–1 vs 0.82; 95%CI: 0.64–0.96; p = 0.036). There was no significant difference between the AUC of r-FLV, r-FLV/t-FLV, ICGK × r-FLV/t-FLV and that of ICGK-F, respectively.

Conclusion

The combination of 99mTc‑GSA SPECT/CT volume and ICGK can predict PHLF more accurately than ICGK-F.
Use of waste fermented black carrot powder dried by different methods as a substitute in noodle production
Authors: Ozer Tugba , Yetisen Mehmet , Baltacioglu Cem , Baltacioglu Hande , Uslu Hasan , Tanguler Hasan
Published: June 2024

This study delved into various aspects of noodle production, emphasizing the impact of waste fermented black carrot powder (WFBCP) concentration and drying techniques. Higher concentrations of WFBCP increased cooking times, particularly in freeze-dried (FD) samples, resulting in varying water absorption and notable cooking losses. Color variations, influenced by both WFBCP concentration and drying methods, led to generally darker hues in the FD samples. Significant differences in the water content were observed across treatments. Ash content increased significantly with higher WFBCP concentrations, particularly at 40%, indicating the impact of WFBCP on ash formation. Noodle samples exhibited a significant rise in oil content with increasing WFBCP concentration, reaching a peak at 20%. Total Phenolic Content notably increased at higher WFBCP concentrations, peaking at 40%, suggesting potential nutritional benefits. Similarly, antioxidant activity increased significantly with higher WFBCP concentrations, indicating enhanced protection against food oxidation. Total monomeric anthocyanin content surged with increased WFBCP concentration, establishing WFBCP as a noteworthy source of anthocyanins. HPLC analysis revealed elevated levels of phenolic compounds when WFBCP was added to noodles, with FD-WFBCP showing the highest content. Freeze-drying effectively preserved the phenolic compounds, while the protein content remained stable. Sensory analysis, conducted using a 0–10 scale, emphasized the impact of processing methods and WFBCP concentrations on attributes such as color, stickiness, chewing, flavor, and overall rating. This study underscores the importance of precise control over WFBCP concentrations and processing for enhancing noodle attributes. Principal component analysis, explaining 90.8% of the total variation, highlights distinct differences between control and treated samples.
Effects of Boric Acid on Oxidative Stress Parameters, Growth Performance and Blood Parameters of Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus Mykiss)
Authors: Öz Mustafa
Published: June 2024

Rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) with a starting weight of 397.28 ± 3.21 g were fed different ratios (G1-0.00%, G2-0.010%, G3-0.025%, and G4-0.050%) of boric acid-supplemented feed for 140 days. The effects of dietary boric acid on oxidative stress parameters, growth performance, haematology and some biochemical parameters were investigated after the feeding period. The addition of boric acid to trout feed positively affected growth performance; the final weights of the groups were 928.15 ± 5.73 g, 955.87 ± 8.67 g, 994.24994,75 ± 7.46 g, and 976.80976,80 ± 6.26 g for the control group and the three experimental groups, respectively. The lowest feed conversation ratio (FCR) was 1.19 (G3) whereas the highest was 1.42 (G1). The lowest protein efficiency ratio was 1.63 (G1), while the highest was 1.95 (G3). In this study, it was observed that boric acid added to the feed changed muscle and blood oxidative stress parameters in rainbow trout, increased the growth performance of rainbow trout, and affected blood and biochemistry values.
Down Syndrome and Autoimmune Disease
Authors: Hom Brian , Boyd Natalie K. , Vogel Benjamin N. , Nishimori Nicole , Khoshnood Mellad M. , Jafarpour Saba , Nagesh Deepti , Santoro Jonathan D.
Published: June 2024

Down syndrome is the most common genetic cause of intellectual disability and has previously been associated with a variety of autoimmune disorders affecting multiple organ systems. The high prevalence of autoimmune disease, in conjunction with other inflammatory and infectious diseases, in this population suggests an intrinsic immune dysregulation associated with triplication of chromosome 21. Emerging data on the role of chromosome 21 in interferon activation, cytokine production, and activation of B-cell mediated autoimmunity are emerging hypotheses that may explain the elevated prevalence of autoimmune thyroid disease, celiac disease, type I diabetes, autoimmune skin disease, and a variety of autoimmune neurologic conditions. As the life expectancy for individuals with Down syndrome increases, knowledge of the epidemiology, clinical features, management and underlying causes of these conditions will become increasingly important. Disorders such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis are prevalent in between 13 and 34% of individuals with Down syndrome but only 3% of the neurotypical population, a pattern similarly recognized in individuals with Celiac Disease (5.8% v 0.5–2%), alopecia areata (27.7% v. 2%), and vitiligo (4.4% v. 0.05–1.55%), respectively. Given the chronicity of autoimmune conditions, early identification and management can significantly impact the quality of life of individuals with Down syndrome. This comprehensive review will highlight common clinical autoimmune conditions observed in individuals with Down syndrome and explore our current understanding of the mechanisms of disease in this population.
Bifurcations and optical soliton perturbation for the Lakshmanan–Porsezian–Daniel system with Kerr law of nonlinear refractive index
Authors: Tang Lu , Biswas Anjan , Yıldırım Yakup , Alshomrani Ali Saleh
Published: June 2024

This paper carries out the bifurcation analysis of the Lakshmanan–Porsezian–Daniel model. The phase portrait analysis is carried out and the soliton solutions naturally emerge from the scheme. The intermediary functions are the Jacobi’s elliptic functions.
Early Conceptual Knowledge About Food
Authors: Gandolini Matteo , Borghini Andrea , Lafraire Jérémie
Published: June 2024

Recent research suggests that preschool (three- to six-years-old) children’s food cognition involves much more than the nutritional information usually conveyed by traditional food education programs. This review aims at collecting the empirical evidence documenting the richness of preschoolers’ conceptual knowledge about food. After introducing the relevance of the topic in the context of the research in early food rejection dispositions (Sect. 1), we draw from empirical contributions to propose the first classification of food knowledge in the field, which includes taxonomic (2.1.), relational (2.2.), and value-laden food knowledge (2.3.). Finally, in Sect. 3, we highlight some theoretical shortcomings of extant literature, suggesting that the account of food knowledge we propose could be employed to develop more effective educational strategies that mitigate early food rejection behaviors (e.g., food neophobia).

Early conceptual knowledge about food.
Effect of laser power on weld microstructure of AA6082 sheets remote laser welded by circular beam wobbling
Authors: Avci Ugur , Franciosa Pasquale
Published: June 2024

This paper aims to investigate the combined effect of circular beam wobbling and varying laser power on crack formation, weld geometry, microstructure and hardness during remote laser welding of AA6082 alloy. AA6082 sheets of 2 mm thickness were joined in overlap weld configuration using wobbling mode remote laser welding at 4 kW, 3 kW and 2.5 kW. Full penetration was achieved in the joints made at 4 kW and 3 kW, with severe crack formation. Welds at 2.5 kW showed partial penetration and no cracks; however, porosity formation was observed. While no significant change was observed in the dendritic structure and compound contents in fusion zones with full penetration, compound clusters dominated by Cu and Si elements were revealed in the seam root region at 2.5 kW (partial penetration). In full penetration welds (4 and 3 kW), the hardness decreased in the center of the fusion zone but increased from the surface to the root zone. However, for the partial penetration weld (2.5 kW), a limited change in the hardness values determined in the same direction was observed.
The Ukrainian–Russian Armed Conflict and the Law of Neutrality: Continuity, Discontinuity, or Irrelevance?
Authors: Bartolini Giulio
Published: June 2024

This article examines the role of the law of neutrality, namely the international legal regime defining the status of a State not party to an international armed conflict, in the Russian-Ukrainian armed conflict by analyzing the legal justifications offered by States and scholars with reference to the provision of weapons to the belligerents. The findings reveal that different positions could be identified ranging from an approach that reflects continuity regarding the basic premises characterizing this legal regime, to the emergence of a relevant discontinuity regarding its traditional legal contours or, finally, solutions implying its current legal irrelevance, even if on multiple occasions States have refrained from framing their positions in clear legal terms. The diminishing relevance of the law of neutrality may eventually lead to a legal order where third-party involvement in conflicts becomes more common. At the same time, the ongoing crisis of the United Nations’ collective security system and violations of its basic principles might risk making traditional interpretations of the law of neutrality a legal component of the lawfare portfolio available to States violating the prohibition on using force, thus mandating a reassessment in its interpretation.
Finite solvable tidy groups whose orders are divisible by two primes
Authors: Beike Nicolas F. , Carleton Rachel , Costanzo David G. , Heath Colin , Lewis Mark L. , Lu Kaiwen , Pearce Jamie D.
Published: June 2024

In this paper, we investigate finite solvable tidy groups. We classify the tidy $$\{ p, q \}$$

{
p
,
q
}

-groups. Combining this with a previous result, we are able to characterize the finite tidy solvable groups. Using this characterization, we bound the Fitting height of finite tidy solvable groups and we prove that the quotients of finite tidy solvable groups are tidy.
Authority and Coercion Beyond the State? The Limited Applicability of Legitimacy Standards for Extraterritorial Border Controls
Authors: Beckman Ludvig
Published: June 2024

Extraterritorial border controls prevent migrants from arriving at the territory of the state and effectively undermine rights to apply for asylum and protections against non-refoulement. As a result, a wealth of scholarship argues that external border controls are illegitimate exercises of state power. This paper challenges two versions of this argument, first, the claim that carrier-sanctions are illegitimate because they subject migrants to morally impermissible forms of coercion and, second, the claim that carrier-sanctions are illegitimate because they subject migrants to illegitimate claims to authority.

Against coercion-based accounts of legitimacy, this paper defends the view that while carrier-sanctions are coercive, the coerciveness of a policy is not relevant to its legitimacy. What is relevant is instead whether the authority claimed by the state is legitimate. Against authority-based accounts, this paper argues that states are unable to claim authority in the relevant sense over migrants that are present in the territories of other states.

The paper concludes by suggesting that the charge that carrier-sanctions are illegitimate should shift towards the state that allows carriers to enforce these policies on their territories. No state has the legitimate authority to permit other states to pressure carriers to prevent migrants in need of protection from travelling. The state that introduces carrier-sanction legislation, on the other hand, is not exercising illegitimate authority though they may act contrary to demands of justice.
SDG 6 progress analyses in sub-Saharan Africa from 2015–2020: the need for urgent action
Authors: Dinka Megersa Olumana , Nyika Joan
Published: June 2024

This study used data from various international databases to track the progress of SDG 6 target indicators in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) region between 2015 and 2020. Findings showed that although minimal positive progress was realized in the evaluation period, more than half of SSA residents had no access to safe drinking water services, improved sanitation facilities, hygiene services and safe wastewater treatment. The computed SDG 6 profile index conformed with the trend of indicators as progress of the region to the goal’s realization was rated as medium–low. The trend was further compounded by limited data, preferential access to water and sanitation services to the urban rich and poor monitoring of progress. The analysis also noted that despite these challenges the region was putting concerted efforts to promote transboundary cooperation in water management and had 6% of water stressed resources. The study recommended on the need to revamp water data collection and monitoring efforts to enable decision-making and planning on management actions, use of technology to treat and reuse wastewater as well as device new sources of water, enhanced participation of communities in water projects and improved water use efficiency to steer progress towards SDG 6 realization in SSA region.
Assessment of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) profiles in heat-processed meat and fish: a study on health risk evaluation
Authors: Iwu Gina Ifeyinwa , Lajide Labunmi , Madu Paschal Chima , Isah Ibrahim Attai
Published: June 2024

The profiles of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in selected heat-processed meat and fish were evaluated to determine the potential health risk associated with consumption. The samples were analysed using a gas Chromatography-Mass spectrometer. Different concentrations of individual PAHs were detected in the samples, with the smoked samples having the highest concentrations. The total PAHs (mg/kg) in smoked samples were 2.763 ± 0.185 (game meat), 1.618 ± 0.102 (mackerel fish), and 1.718 ± 0.129 (catfish), whereas levels (mg/kg) in grilled samples were 0.771 ± 0.049 (chicken) and 0.911 ± 0.053 (fish). The total carcinogenic PAH (PAH7) concentrations (mg/kg) in grilled chicken and fish and smoked (game meat, mackerel fish, and catfish) samples were 0.231, 0.294, 0.440, 0.309, and 0.332, while their total PAH8 concentrations were 0.356, 0.371, 0.537, 0.465, and 0.476 respectively. The non-carcinogenic PAH risk estimations, both individually (hazard quotient) and cumulatively (hazard index), were below 1 in all the samples. The mean concentrations of PAH markers B[a]P and the PAH4 were above the EU limits in both the smoked and the grilled samples tested. This implies that exposure to high levels of these PAHs through regular consumption of these products may increase the risk of developing certain types of cancer and other health issues. The smoked fishes has the lowest MOE values for the PAH8 compared to the other samples. The margin of exposures (MOEs), carcinogenic toxic equivalent (TEQ), and excess cancer risk (ECR) also indicated that frequent consumption of smoked fish (mackerel or catfish) by an adult of 70 kg body weight above the reported intake rate of 0.0019 kg/AME/day for a prolonged period may have higher cancer risks than in other samples. Smoked game meat had the highest PAH16 level, but indicated a relatively lower risk level, possibly because of its relatively low intake rate (0.0004 kg/AME/day).
Predicting life engagement and happiness from gaming motives and primary emotional traits before and during the COVID pandemic: a machine learning approach
Authors: Dagum Nolan , Pontes Halley M. , Montag Christian
Published: June 2024

The present study investigated whether life engagement and happiness can be predicted from gaming motives and primary emotional traits. Two machine learning algorithms (random forest model and one-dimensional convolutional neural network) were applied using a dataset from before the COVID-19 pandemic as the training dataset. The algorithms derived were then applied to test if they would be useful in predicting life engagement and happiness from gaming motives and primary emotional systems on a dataset collected during the pandemic. The best prediction values were observed for happiness with ρ = 0.758 with explained variance of R2 = 0.575 when applying the best performing algorithm derived from the pre-COVID dataset to the COVID dataset. Hence, this shows that the derived algorithm based on the pre-pandemic data set, successfully predicted happiness (and life engagement) from the same set of variables during the pandemic. Overall, this study shows the feasibility of applying machine learning algorithms to predict life engagement and happiness from gaming motives and primary emotional systems.
Subsurface flow pathway and hydrochemistry of a geographically isolated depression wetland in the Serra Geral Diabase Formation, São Paulo State, Brazil
Authors: de Oliveira Franco Isabella , de Souza Sardinha Diego , Moreira Furlan Lucas , Casagrande Matheus Felipe Stanfoca , Moreira César Augusto , Rosolen Vania
Published: June 2024

Connectivity among water bodies is crucial for hydrological and ecological processes and fundamental for water management. Hydrochemistry and potentiometric studies on an isolated wetland allow to assess landscape influence, flow pathways, and subsurface connection. This study focuses on an isolated wetland over diabase on a topographic depression, with no visible river connection, and aims to determine the influence of rainfall and landscape on water composition and investigate subsurface flow toward the Santa Gertrudes stream. Water levels were monitored, and samples were collected from four wells during wet and dry seasons. Physical and chemical water parameters were measured, and ion concentrations determined. Pearson’s correlations highlighted codependence between physical and chemical parameters and ions and Piper’s diagram classified water composition. Six potentiometric maps were generated using interpolated hydraulic loads from monitoring campaigns. The findings show fluctuations in water level (0.11 to 0.93 m during wet periods and 1.25 to 1.79 m during dry periods), indicating rainwater directly affects water availability. Water composition was categorized as Sodium Bicarbonate and electrical conductivity values (greater than 100 µS/cm) may indicate that upstream wells are retaining salts from the surrounding crops. Strong positive correlation between sodium, bicarbonate and carbonate, and sulfate with electrical conductivity suggests simultaneous release of ions due to rock and soil mineral alteration. Potentiometric data reinforce the hypothesis of a subsurface connection between the studied area and the Santa Gertrudes stream. Future studies could benefit from expanding the monitoring network to include more GIWs and applying additional methods, such as isotope tracers.
Design and development of new charge controller for GPS tracker for electric vehicles
Authors: Mariprasath T. , Venkatanaraya M.
Published: June 2024

This investigation introduces a new charge controller for GPS trackers, with the objective of offering long-lasting and efficient tracking solutions. The article emphasizes the widespread use of GPS trackers in various sectors, as well as the critical need for sustainable power sources to maintain their effectiveness. The charge controller ensures optimal performance and durability by meticulously choosing components. Experimental investigations confirm the efficacy of the charge controller to deliver a steady power supply to the GPS tracker. The integration of GPS technology with solar PV charging allows for continuous monitoring. The results show that the solar photovoltaic (PV) system reached a peak output voltage of 10 V, ensuring that the battery remained at a stable level of 12.4 V and continually providing the GPS tracker with a steady 5 V. These findings validate the system's capacity to deliver dependable and enduring electricity, signifying notable progress in remote monitoring, asset tracking, and fleet management.
WTCRNet: a wavelet transform and contrastive regularization network for sonar denoising by self-supervision
Authors: Si Chengling , Zhang Shu , Cai Qing , Zhang Tiange , Zhang Mengfan , Han Xu , Dong Junyu
Published: June 2024

In the field of underwater acoustics, forward-looking sonar represents a pivotal tool for acquiring subaqueous imagery. However, this technique is susceptible to the inherent ambient noise prevalent in underwater environments, resulting in degraded image quality. A notable challenge in this domain is the scarcity of pristine image exemplars, making it difficult to apply many advanced deep denoising networks for the purification of sonar images. To address this issue, the study introduces a novel self-supervised methodology specifically designed for denoising forward-looking sonar images. The proposed model employs a blind-spot network architecture to reconstruct unblemished images. Additionally, it integrates wavelet transform technology within a convolutional neural network (CNN) framework, combining frequency and structural information. Furthermore, the model incorporates contrastive regularization to augment denoising efficiency. This innovative denoising network, which leverages wavelet transform and contrastive regularization (CR), is henceforth referred to as WTCRNet. To evaluate the performance of WTCRNet, this study constructs a dual dataset comprising both simulated and authentic forward-looking sonar images, thereby furnishing a comprehensive dataset for network training and evaluation. Empirical assessments conducted on these datasets demonstrate that WTCRNet substantially outperforms existing denoising methodologies by effectively mitigating noise. The code is available at https://gitee.com/sichengling/wtcrnet.git.
Beyond texture: unveiling spiny crown-of-thorns starfish with multiresolution analysis
Authors: Dubey Satyam , Nirmal Jagannath
Published: June 2024

Coral reefs are essential ecosystems in the vast expanses of oceans, nurturing various forms of marine life within their vibrant and expansive structures. However, these underwater paradises suffer considerable threat from the population explosions of crown-of-thorns starfish (COTS), which detrimentally affect scleractinian corals across the Indo-Pacific region. This study addresses the early drawback of solely relying on texture analysis for COTS detection, recognizing the associated insufficiency due to variability in reef substrates. By integrating multiresolution analysis employing wavelet transform, edge information, and texture analysis using gray-level co-occurrence probability, this approach employs crucial Haralick features refined for pattern recognition. This enables a more detailed understanding of COTS traits, including the detection of the numerous sharp spines that cover their upper bodies. This approach considerably enhances classification reliability, making notable progress with an impressive accuracy of 95.00% using the eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) Classifier. Moreover, this model streamlines processing requirements by increasing computational and memory efficiencies, making it more resource-efficient than the current models. This advancement enhances detection and opens avenues for early intervention and future research. Furthermore, integrating the model with underwater imagery could enable citizen science initiatives and autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) surveys. Empowering trained volunteers and equipping AUVs with this technology could considerably expand coral reef monitoring efforts. Early COTS outbreak detection allows for shorter response times, potentially mitigating the damage and facilitating targeted conservation strategies.
Carbon Outwelling and Uptake Along a Tidal Glacier‐Lagoon‐Ocean Continuum
Authors: Ljungberg Wilma , Yau Yvonne Y. Y. , Cabral Alex , Majtényi‐Hill Claudia , Henriksson Linnea , McKenzie Tristan , Ruiz‐Angulo Angel , Szymczycha Beata , Dittmar Thorsten , Ulber Ina , Santos Isaac R.
Published: June 2024

Tidewater glaciers are highly vulnerable to climate change due to warming from both atmospheric and seawater sources. Most tidewater glaciers are rapidly retreating, but little is known about how glacial melting modifies coastal biogeochemical cycles. Here, we investigate carbonate and nutrient dynamics and fluxes in an expanding proglacial tidal lagoon connected to Europe's largest glacier in Iceland (Vatnajökull). The lagoon N:P:Si ratios (2:1:30) imply a system deficient in nitrogen. The large variations in the freshwater endmembers highlighted the complexity of resolving sources and transformations. The lagoon acted as a sink of dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC). Floating chamber incubations revealed a CO2 uptake of 26 ± 15 mmol m−2 d−1. Lagoon waters near the glacier had a 170% higher CO2 uptake than near the lagoon mouth, likely driven by primary production stimulated by nitrogen‐rich bottom water upwelling. The lateral DIC and total alkalinity (TA) flux rates (outwelling) from the lagoon to the ocean were −1.5 ± 0.1 (export to ocean) and 23 ± 5 mmol m−2 d−1 (import into the lagoon) respectively. All samples were undersaturated with respect to aragonite due to glacial meltwater dilution of TA and CO2 uptake. This implies dilution of oceanic alkalinity, lowering the nearshore buffering capacity against ocean acidification.
Emerging roles of ferroptosis in pulmonary fibrosis: current perspectives, opportunities and challenges
Authors: Hu Yixiang , Huang Ying , Zong Lijuan , Lin Jiaxin , Liu Xiang , Ning Shipeng
Published: June 2024

Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is a chronic interstitial lung disorder characterized by abnormal myofibroblast activation, accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM), and thickening of fibrotic alveolar walls, resulting in deteriorated lung function. PF is initiated by dysregulated wound healing processes triggered by factors such as excessive inflammation, oxidative stress, and coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Despite advancements in understanding the disease’s pathogenesis, effective preventive and therapeutic interventions are currently lacking. Ferroptosis, an iron-dependent regulated cell death (RCD) mechanism involving lipid peroxidation and glutathione (GSH) depletion, exhibits unique features distinct from other RCD forms (e.g., apoptosis, necrosis, and pyroptosis). Imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and detoxification leads to ferroptosis, causing cellular dysfunction through lipid peroxidation, protein modifications, and DNA damage. Emerging evidence points to the crucial role of ferroptosis in PF progression, driving macrophage polarization, fibroblast proliferation, and ECM deposition, ultimately contributing to alveolar cell death and lung tissue scarring. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the latest findings on the involvement and signaling mechanisms of ferroptosis in PF pathogenesis, emphasizing potential novel anti-fibrotic therapeutic approaches targeting ferroptosis for PF management.
Hidden transport phenomena in an ultraclean correlated metal
Authors: Brahlek Matthew , Roth Joseph D. , Zhang Lei , Briggeman Megan , Irvin Patrick , Lapano Jason , Levy Jeremy , Birol Turan , Engel-Herbert Roman
Published: June 2024

Advancements in materials synthesis have been key to unveil the quantum nature of electronic properties in solids by providing experimental reference points for a correct theoretical description. Here, we report hidden transport phenomena emerging in the ultraclean limit of the archetypical correlated electron system SrVO3. The low temperature, low magnetic field transport was found to be dominated by anisotropic scattering, whereas, at high temperature, we find a yet undiscovered phase that exhibits clear deviations from the expected Landau Fermi liquid, which is reminiscent of strange-metal physics in materials on the verge of a Mott transition. Further, the high sample purity enabled accessing the high magnetic field transport regime at low temperature, which revealed an anomalously high Hall coefficient. Taken with the strong anisotropic scattering, this presents a more complex picture of SrVO3 that deviates from a simple Landau Fermi liquid. These hidden transport anomalies observed in the ultraclean limit prompt a theoretical reexamination of this canonical correlated electron system beyond the Landau Fermi liquid paradigm, and more generally serves as an experimental basis to refine theoretical methods to capture such nontrivial experimental consequences emerging in correlated electron systems.
Evolutionary dynamics of any multiplayer game on regular graphs
Authors: Wang Chaoqian , Perc Matjaž , Szolnoki Attila
Published: June 2024

Multiplayer games on graphs are at the heart of theoretical descriptions of key evolutionary processes that govern vital social and natural systems. However, a comprehensive theoretical framework for solving multiplayer games with an arbitrary number of strategies on graphs is still missing. Here, we solve this by drawing an analogy with the Balls-and-Boxes problem, based on which we show that the local configuration of multiplayer games on graphs is equivalent to distributing k identical co-players among n distinct strategies. We use this to derive the replicator equation for any n-strategy multiplayer game under weak selection, which can be solved in polynomial time. As an example, we revisit the second-order free-riding problem, where costly punishment cannot truly resolve social dilemmas in a well-mixed population. Yet, in structured populations, we derive an accurate threshold for the punishment strength, beyond which punishment can either lead to the extinction of defection or transform the system into a rock-paper-scissors-like cycle. The analytical solution also qualitatively agrees with the phase diagrams that were previously obtained for non-marginal selection strengths. Our framework thus allows an exploration of any multi-strategy multiplayer game on regular graphs.
Magnon interactions in a moderately correlated Mott insulator
Authors: Wang Qisi , Mustafi S. , Fogh E. , Astrakhantsev N. , He Z. , Biało I. , Chan Ying , Martinelli L. , Horio M. , Ivashko O. , Shaik N. E. , Arx K. von , Sassa Y. , Paris E. , Fischer M. H. , Tseng Y. , Christensen N. B. , Galdi A. , Schlom D. G. , Shen K. M. , Schmitt T. , Rønnow H. M. , Chang J.
Published: June 2024

Quantum fluctuations in low-dimensional systems and near quantum phase transitions have significant influences on material properties. Yet, it is difficult to experimentally gauge the strength and importance of quantum fluctuations. Here we provide a resonant inelastic x-ray scattering study of magnon excitations in Mott insulating cuprates. From the thin film of SrCuO2, single- and bi-magnon dispersions are derived. Using an effective Heisenberg Hamiltonian generated from the Hubbard model, we show that the single-magnon dispersion is only described satisfactorily when including significant quantum corrections stemming from magnon-magnon interactions. Comparative results on La2CuO4 indicate that quantum fluctuations are much stronger in SrCuO2 suggesting closer proximity to a magnetic quantum critical point. Monte Carlo calculations reveal that other magnetic orders may compete with the antiferromagnetic Néel order as the ground state. Our results indicate that SrCuO2—due to strong quantum fluctuations—is a unique starting point for the exploration of novel magnetic ground states.
Molecular insight into interactions between the Taf14, Yng1 and Sas3 subunits of the NuA3 complex
Authors: Nguyen Minh Chau , Rostamian Hosein , Raman Ana , Wei Pengcheng , Becht Dustin C. , Erbse Annette H. , Klein Brianna J. , Gilbert Tonya M. , Zhang Gongyi , Blanco M. Andres , Strahl Brian D. , Taverna Sean D. , Kutateladze Tatiana G.
Published: June 2024

The NuA3 complex is a major regulator of gene transcription and the cell cycle in yeast. Five core subunits are required for complex assembly and function, but it remains unclear how these subunits interact to form the complex. Here, we report that the Taf14 subunit of the NuA3 complex binds to two other subunits of the complex, Yng1 and Sas3, and describe the molecular mechanism by which the extra-terminal domain of Taf14 recognizes the conserved motif present in Yng1 and Sas3. Structural, biochemical, and mutational analyses show that two motifs are sandwiched between the two extra-terminal domains of Taf14. The head-to-toe dimeric complex enhances the DNA binding activity of Taf14, and the formation of the hetero-dimer involving the motifs of Yng1 and Sas3 is driven by sequence complementarity. In vivo assays in yeast demonstrate that the interactions of Taf14 with both Sas3 and Yng1 are required for proper function of the NuA3 complex in gene transcription and DNA repair. Our findings suggest a potential basis for the assembly of three core subunits of the NuA3 complex, Taf14, Yng1 and Sas3.
Freshwater spreading far offshore the Japanese coast
Authors: Wagawa Taku , Igeta Yosuke , Sakamoto Kei , Takeuchi Marika , Okuyama Shinobu , Abe Shoko , Yabe Itsuka
Published: June 2024

River discharge to the ocean influences the transport of salts and nutrients and is a source of variability in water mass distribution and the elemental cycle. Recently, using an underwater glider, we detected thick, low-salinity water offshore for the first time, probably derived from coastal waters, in the central-eastern Sea of Japan, whose primary productivity is comparable to that of the western North Pacific. Thereafter, we aimed to investigate the offshore advection and diffusion of coastal water and its variability and assess their impact. We examined the effects of river water discharge on the flow field and biological production. Numerical experiments demonstrated that low-salinity water observed by the glider in spring was discharged from the Japanese coast to offshore regions. The water is discharged offshore because of its interaction with mesoscale eddies. A relationship between the modeled low-salinity water transport to the offshore region and the observed chlorophyll-ain the offshore region was also observed, indicating the influence of river water on offshore biological production. This study contributes to understanding coastal-offshore water exchange, ocean circulation, elemental cycles, and biological production, which are frontiers in the Sea of Japan and throughout the world.
Possible adverse events of imidazole antifungal drugs during treatment of vulvovaginal candidiasis: analysis of the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System
Authors: Zhou Tianyu , Chen Chongze , Chen Xiaowei , Wang Bin , Sun Feng , Li Wanfang , Liu Dong , Jin Hongtao
Published: June 2024

Azole antifungal drugs are commonly used to treat vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC). The nephrotoxicity and developmental toxicity of azole drugs have not been systematically analyzed in the real world. We used the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) to investigate the adverse events (AEs) associated with imidazole therapy for VVC. FAERS data (from quarter 1 2004 to quarter 3 2022) were retrieved using OpenVigil 2.1, and AEs were retrieved and standardized according to the Medical Dictionary for Regulatory Activities (MedDRA). In the top 10 System Organ Class (SOC), all four drugs have been found to have kidney and urinary system diseases and pregnancy. We found significant signals, including clotrimazole [bladder transitional cell carcinoma, (report odds ratio, ROR = 291.66)], [fetal death, (ROR = 10.28)], ketoconazole[nephrogenic anemia (ROR = 22.1)], [premature rupture of membranes (ROR = 22.91 46.45, 11, 3)], Miconazole[hematuria (ROR = 19.03)], [neonatal sepsis (ROR = 123.71)], [spontaneous abortion (ROR = 5.98)], Econazole [acute kidney injury (ROR = 4.41)], [spontaneous abortion (ROR = 19.62)]. We also discovered new adverse reactions that were not reported. Therefore, when using imidazole drugs for treatment, it is necessary to closely monitor the patient's renal function, pay attention to the developmental toxicity of the fetus during pregnancy, and be aware of potential adverse reactions that may occur.