bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Discussion on a Non-traditional Antigravity theoryAnd the Realization Path Is Envisaged
Authors: Zhao Shandong , Zhao Yijia
Published: April 2024

The paper proposes a viewpoint that a mass point moving in a horizontal circle on the Earth's surface can generate a radial centrifugal force in the center of the earth, Thus, an unconventional anti-gravity approach is realized. Through the theoretical analysis of the difference in the distribution of the Earth's gravitational acceleration, And the centrifugal force of a mass point moving in a horizontal circle on the Earth's surface was analyzed, The establishment of the argument is demonstrated. At the same time, it puts forward two possible basic principles and makes theoretical analysis and demonstration. In this paper, four schemes are proposed to realize anti-gravity ascent by using the geocentric radial centrifugal force of a mass point moving in a horizontal circle , and the basic analysis is made. On the premise of not fully considering the practical technical ability, it is theoretically proved that three of them have realistic operability and development potential. In theory, this paper opens up a different way of anti-gravity for human beings, which will bring new ideas and prospects for human beings to get rid of the bondage of gravity.
Geopolymer Cement in Pavement Applications: Bridging Sustainability and Performance, an In-Depth Review
Authors: Aderinto Gbenga Emmanuel , Ikotun Jacob Olumuyiwa , Yato KATTE Valentine , Madirisha Makungu
Published: April 2024

Growing concerns about the greenhouse effect, global warming, and adverse climate changes primarily stemming from carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions in traditional Portland cement (OPC) used in civil engineering construction, have prompted a shift toward eco-friendly alternatives like geopolymer cement (GPC). Over the last few decades, significant advancements have been made in developing environmentally sustainable pavement construction materials such as GPC to mitigate global CO2 emissions. The success of geopolymer cement (GPC) as an eco-friendly alternative to OPC has garnered attention for its potential to lower carbon emissions and enhance durability. This is attributed to the sustainable production method of GPC, where industrial cementitious waste materials (such as fly ash (FA), metakaolin (MK), mine tailings (MT), slag, etc.) are combined with an eco-friendly alkaline activator and water through the geopolymerization process. Numerous studies on geopolymer concrete indicate that, like OPC, GPC exhibits comparable mechanical properties, including strength, fire resistance, chemical resistance, and durability. This review explores the properties and applications of GPC as a sustainable material in pavement construction, exploring key studies and advancements in geopolymer technology, particularly its suitability for pavement applications. The assessment covers the mechanical properties, long-term performance, and environmental impact of geopolymer-based pavements, providing a comprehensive overview to inform policymakers, engineers, and researchers about the viability of geopolymer-based materials as a sustainable solution for modern pavement construction.
Correlation between the Built Environment and Sociology: A critical review of Residential Segregation and Social Housing Policy in Iran
Authors: Khalatbari Armita
Published: April 2024

This paper critically reviews the correlation between the built environment and sociology as it pertains to residential segregation and social housing policy in Iran. The objective is to identify design strategies that minimize the risk of social isolation, promote social interaction, and foster a sense of community within affordable housing zones. The literature review includes existing research on urban segregation and social sustainability, with a focus on architectural solutions. Case studies are utilized to exemplify both positive and negative social outcomes related to urban segregation and identify effective design elements. The findings highlight the complex nature of residential segregation and its impact on social isolation, social capital, and social exclusion. The built environment contributes to the problem by facilitating the creation of isolated communities, and architects have a crucial role in addressing them. The results suggest that a comprehensive social housing policy is necessary to improve the quality of social housing and reduce residential segregation in Iran. Finally, the paper provides practical design strategies to promote social interaction, enhance accessibility and mobility, create mixed-use developments, and incorporate sustainable design features in social housing policy. By using design strategies that support social sustainability and inclusiveness, architects can create thriving and sustainable urban environments that prioritize the needs of marginalized communities.
Rock Particle Segmentation Using Mask R-CNN
Authors: Ogunkeye Fiyinfoba , Shan Liqun , Hei Xiali
Published: April 2024

Identification and segmentation of rock particles is very important in geology, mining, engineering construction, and environmental monitoring. Traditional methods for recognizing the rock particle characteristics are time-consuming, labor-intensive, and limited by the geographical scope of the sampling sites, which makes it more difficult to represent the spatial distribution of the rock particles accurately. Recent advancements in deep learning techniques offer promising solutions to automate this process. This study aims at utilizing state-of-the-art (SOTA) Mask R-CNN deep learning algorithm from the Detectron2 framework, to capture global features of rocks that will enable the recognition of rock particles more efficiently, just from having the rock images. These images are subject to image processing techniques such as a Gaussian filter, to denoise and smoothen the image, and an Illumination Adaptive Transformer (IAT) framework, to adjust the lighting exposure; all of which add to improve the quality of the image dataset. Afterward, the Mask R-CNN and Detectron2 models are utilized in training the images using transfer learning. Experimental results from evaluating the performance of the proposed algorithms showcase the effectiveness of the approach, thereby highlighting its potential to revolutionize rock particle segmentation across various domains.
Hybrid Intelligent Control System for Adaptive Microgrid Optimization: Integration of Rule-Based Control and Deep Learning Techniques
Authors: Akbulut Osman , Cavus Muhammed , Cengiz Mehmet , Allahham Adib , Giaouris Damian , Forshaw Matthew
Published: April 2024

Microgrids (MGs) have evolved as critical components of modern energy distribution networks, providing increased dependability, efficiency, and sustainability. Effective control strategies are essential for optimising MG operation and maintaining stability in the face of changing environmental and load conditions. Traditional rule-based control systems are extensively used due to their interpretability and simplicity. However, these strategies frequently lack the flexibility for complex and changing system dynamics. This paper provides a novel method called hybrid intelligent control for adaptive MG that integrates basic rule-based-control and deep learning techniques, including gated recurrent units (GRU), basic recurrent neural network (RNN) and long short-term memory (LSTM). The main target of this hybrid approach is to improve MG management performance by combining the strengths of basic rule-based systems and deep learning techniques. These deep learning techniques readily enhance and adapt control decisions based on historical data and domain-specific rules, leading to increasing system efficiency, stability, and resilience in adaptive MG. Our results show that the proposed method optimises MG operation, especially under demanding conditions such as variable renewable energy supply and unanticipated load fluctuations. This study investigates special RNN architectures and hyper-parameter optimization techniques with the aim of predicting power consumption and generation within the adaptive MG system. Our promising results show the highest-performing models indicating high accuracy and efficiency in power prediction. The finest-performing model accomplishes an R2 value close to 1, representing a strong correlation between predicted and actual power values.
Perturbed FLRW Metric Explains the Difference in Measurements of the Hubble Constant
Authors: Belayev Wladimir
Published: April 2024

A cosmological model described by the perturbation metric is proposed, in which space is entrained by matter expanding as a result of the Big Bang. In the absence of an input of external energy and momentum, the solution of the Einstein equations assumes a pressure equal to zero and an accelerated expansion. The cosmological perturbation model explains the difference in measurements of the Hubble constant using gravitational lensing and a distance ladder.
On the determination of elastic properties of single-walled nitride nanotubes using numerical simulation
Authors: Sakharova Nataliya A. , Pereira André F.G. , Antunes Jorge M. , Chaparro Bruno M. , Parreira Tomás G. , Fernandes José V.
Published: April 2024

In the recent years, tubular nanostructures have been related with immense advances in various fields of science and technology. Considerable research efforts have been centered on the theoretical prediction and manufacturing of non-carbon nanotubes (NTs), which meet modern requirements for the developing of novel devices and systems. In this context, diatomic inorganic nanotubes formed by atoms of elements from the 13th group of the periodic table (B, Al, Ga, In, Tl) and nitrogen (N), have received much research attention. In the present work, the elastic properties of single-walled boron nitride, aluminium nitride, gallium nitride, indium nitride and thallium nitride nanotubes were numerically evaluated using the nanoscale continuum modelling approach (also called molecular structural mechanics). The elastic properties (rigidities, surface Young´s and shear moduli, and Poisson´s ratio) of nitride nanotubes are discussed with respect to the bond length of the corresponding diatomic hexagonal lattice. The results obtained contribute to a better understanding of the mechanical response of nitride compound-based nanotubes, covering a broad range from the well-studied boron nitride NTs to the hypothetical thallium nitride NTs.
Immobilization of Cell Walls with Laccase in L-DOPA-Alginate Beads and Investigation of the Influence of Photopolymeriza-Tion on the Temperature Stability of Immobilized Cells and Their Ability for Textile Dye Decolorization
Authors: Kokar Nikolina Popović , Nikoletić Anamarija , Stanišić Marija , Crnoglavac Popović Milica , Prodanović Radivoje
Published: April 2024

Alginate is naturally occurring polymer derived from brown algae biomass, which has found numerous applications in various fields. Chemical modification of alginate is widely used to improve the physicochemical properties of alginate and to provide new potential for various applications. In this article, we modified alginate with L-DOPA, using periodate oxidation and reductive amination, in order to be get more suitable biopolymer for biocatalysts immobilization and hydrogel formation. Obtained modified alginate was used for immobilization of laccase on cell walls. For this purpose, laccase from Streptomyces cyaneus was expressed on the surface of Saccharomyces cerevisiae EBY100 cells. Obtained cell wall laccase was immobilized within L-DOPA-alginate beads, by crosslinking of L-DOPA-alginate with calcium ions and laccase. The effect of additional crosslinking of beads by green light induced photopolymerization with eosin Y was investigated. The immobilized laccase systems were used for dye decolorization and also investigated in multiple treatment processes of dye decolorization. Beads with L-DOPA-alginate with higher degree of modification (5.0 mol%) showed higher enzymatic activity and better de-colorization efficiency compared to those with lower degree of modification (2.5 mol%). Obtained immobilized biocatalysts are suitable for the decolorization of dye Evans Blue due to their high efficiency and reusability.
Regulation of RIPK1 Phosphorylation: Implications for Inflammation, Cell Death, and Therapeutic Interventions
Authors: Du Jingchun , Wang Zhigao
Published: April 2024

Receptor-interacting protein kinase 1 (RIPK1) plays a crucial role in controlling inflammation and cell death. Its function is tightly controlled through post-translational modifications, enabling its dynamic switch between promoting cell survival and triggering cell death. Phosphorylation of RIPK1 at various sites serves as a critical mechanism for regulating its activity, exerting either activating or inhibitory effects. Perturbations in RIPK1 phosphorylation status have profound implications for the development of severe inflammatory diseases in humans. This review explores the intricate regulation of RIPK1 phosphorylation and dephosphorylation and highlights the potential of targeting RIPK1 phosphorylation as a promising therapeutic strategy for mitigating human diseases.
A Numerical Study on the Penetrability and Directivity of the Difference-Frequency Component Beam in Bubbly Liquids Obtained via Parametric Acoustic Array
Authors: Tejedor Sastre María Teresa , Vanhille Christian
Published: April 2024

The penetrability and directivity of ultrasound in different media is of interest in engineering and medical applications (imaging, nondestructive testing, sonochemistry, among others). The nonlinearity of a liquid can be used in the parametric antenna framework to generate low-frequency components with particular features from several ultrasonic signals at the source. Bubbly liquids are dispersive liquids in which a small amount of tiny gas bubbles leads to the increase of the nonlinear parameter of the media over certain frequency ranges. Parametric antenna applied to this huge nonlinear media gives rise to low-frequency components with relatively small intensity at the source. The evolution of a low-frequency component (difference-frequency component obtained from two primary signals) during its propagation in a bubbly liquid is somehow unknown. It is thus interesting to analyse its characteristics to establish whether this component can benefit from the quality of its own frequency and from the primary frequencies in terms of directivity and penetrability into the medium. It must be noted that no such study in bubbly liquids exists in the litterature, but only for homogeneous media. To this end, several numerical models developed previously are used here to analyse the difference-frequency component obtained from a parametric antenna emitting from two ultrasonic signals at the source in one and two-dimensional domains. These models allow us to observe the behavior of this frequency component. An angle that measures the directivity of a beam is also defined. Our results show a point hardly found in the literature: the high directivity and the huge penetrability of the secondary beam associated to the difference-frequency component into the bubbly liquid, compared to the same frequency signal excited directly from the source in the bubbly liquid and to the parametric acoustic array in homogeneous fluids.
Innovative Potential Estimates in Schrödinger Equations: Bridging Quantum Mechanics and Fluid Dynamics
Authors: Durmagambetov Asset
Published: April 2024

This manuscript presents a novel approach to estimating the potential within Schrödinger equations, with a particular focus on applications to the Navier-Stokes problem in fluid dynamics. By establishing new theoretical estimates, we delve into the intricate dynamics of fluid flow, aiming to unveil previously obscured aspects of the Navier-Stokes equations. Through a rigorous mathematical framework, we explore how these new potential estimates can provide a fresh perspective on fluid mechanics, contributing to the ongoing quest to solve some of its most persistent challenges.
Coupling of Population and Settlement Change Trends in Traditional Rural Areas and Urban–rural Development Spatial Patterns: A Case Study of Heilongjiang Province, China
Authors: Lin Jia , Du Guoming , Zhang Ying , Yu Xiaoyang
Published: April 2024

Achieving the dual development of rural revitalization and urbanization is an important strategic goal of China’s current modernization. Rural population and settlements are the main components of the countryside in traditional agricultural areas, and play an important role in the development of the countryside itself in terms of urban and rural land use and in the formation of urban and rural development patterns. This study analyzes the spatial and temporal changes in rural populations and settlements at the township level, as well as the degree and type of coupled development. A framework for urban–rural development relationships based on different types of coupled development is proposed, and a model of urban–rural forces is constructed to derive the spatial pattern of urban–rural development at the township level that may be formed in the future. Our study shows that the rural population and settlements in the study area are characterized by significant spatial and temporal dynamics, indicating that traditional rural areas are in a process of rapid development and change. The results of the township-level coupling measurements present four types of development in terms of the spatial pattern of urban–rural development: A-type is most likely to produce new cities or satellite towns in the Jixi–Harbin–Qiqihar area in the future; B-type is the fastest dying area in the future, located in the Harbin and Qitaihe clusters, with a tendency to merge into Harbin; C-type is the area to be focused on in the future to attract population and strictly control the growth of the rural settlement area to avoid it turning into B-type; D-type may develop regional township centers in the future in the combined area of Jiamusi City, Suihua City and Mudanjiang City. The results of the study provide experience in realizing rural revitalization according to local conditions. The new spatial pattern of urban–rural development provides an important reference for formulating land use policies, optimizing urban–rural land allocation and realizing integrated urban–rural development strategies.
Microneedles Patch: Design, Fabrication and Applications
Authors: Oliveira Cristiana , Teixeira José A. , Oliveira Nelson , Ferreira Sónia , Botelho Cláudia
Published: April 2024

The delivery of therapeutical molecules through the skin, particularly to its deeper layers is impaired due to the stratum corneum layer, which acts as barrier to foreign substances. Thus, for the past years, scientists have focused on the development of more efficient methods to deliver molecules to skin distinct layers. Microneedles, as a new class of biomedical devices, consists on an array of microscale needles. This particular biomedical device had been drawing attention due to their ability to breach the stratum corneum, forming micro-conduits to facilitate the passage of therapeutical molecules. The microneedle device has several advantages over conventional methods, such as better medication adherence, easiness and painless self-administration. Moreover, it is possible to deliver the molecules swiftly or over time. Microneedles can vary in shape, size and composition. The design process of a microneedle device must take in account several factors, like the location delivery, the material and manufacturing process. Microneedles have been used in a large number of fields from drug and vaccine application, cosmetics, therapy, diagnosis, tissue engineering, sample extraction, cancer research, wound healing, among others.
The Variation in the Thermal Low-Pressure Location Index over the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau and Its Relationship with Summer
Authors: Xia Xie qing , Zhou Mingfei , Zhu Yulei , Tang Hongzhong , Yang Jing , Pang Qingbing
Published: April 2024

Utilizing NCEP/NCAR monthly reanalysis data alongside precipitation observations from 1936 monitoring stations across China spanning from 1966 to 2022, this study establishes a location index for the thermal low-pressure center situated over the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau. Temporal variations in the location index and summer (July) precipitation patterns in China were studied. Over the past six decades, thermal low-pressure centers have been predominantly positioned near 90°E and 32.5°N on the plateau, with their distribution extending from east to west rather than from south to north. The longitudinal and latitudinal position indices exhibit contrasting linear trends, with a positive trend observed during the 1970s and early 21st century and a negative trend in subsequent decades. Mutation analysis highlights pronounced weakening mutations occurring in 1981 and 1973, with the longitudinal index transitioning from an inter-annual cycle of approximately 6-8 years, while the latitudinal index displays quasi-cyclic oscillations of 5 and 8 and 12-14 years. Strong negative correlations are evident between the location indices and precipitation along the southeastern edge of the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau and in Southern China, contrasting with the positive correlations observed in the central-eastern plateau, northwest China, North China, and the Huang-Huai region. The influence of southerly airflow predominates over much of China east of the plateau, while northwest China experiences convergence between northerly and southerly airflow. Higher location indices correspond to weaker surface cold air masses and strengthened Western Pacific Subtropical and South Asian Highs south of the Yangtze River Basin, resulting in significantly reduced rainfall in the southern Yangtze River region and increased rainfall in northwest China.
Representing Contemporary Paramedic Practice in Canada: Development of the National Competency Framework for Paramedics
Authors: Batt Alan , Bolster Jennifer , Lysko Meghan , Poirier Pierre , Cassista Derek , Austin Michael , Cameron Cheryl , Donnelly Elizabeth , Donelon Becky , Dunn Noël , Johnston William , Lanos Chelsea , Leyenaar Matthew , Lunn Tyne , Mason Paige , Osinga Mary , Steary Dugg , Teed Sean , Vacon Charlene , Tavares Walter
Published: April 2024

IntroductionParamedicine is a domain of practice and health profession that specialises in the provision of health and social care across a range of settings including, but not limited to, emergency and primary care. Paramedics work in a variety of clinical settings such as paramedics services, hospitals, and clinics, in the community as well as non-clinical roles, such as education, leadership, policy work, public health and research. A previous competency framework for paramedics in Canada had become increasingly poorly aligned with contemporary practice. We sought to develop a competency framework that represents contemporary paramedic practice in Canada. MethodsThis project was guided by a conceptual framework informed by systems thinking and used a six-step model for developing competency frameworks. We engaged paramedics from across Canada in working groups to explore various contexts of paramedic practice. We gathered data using multiple methods and coded this data into activity statements. We grouped these statements and developed or expanded corresponding professional activities through five drafts of the framework from 2022 to 2024. A technical committee reviewed and edited the draft framework throughout the process, culminating in a public review period from January to March 2024, and a subsequent final version of the National Competency Framework for Paramedics (NCFP). ResultsThe National Competency Framework for Paramedics reflects contemporary paramedic practice in Canada. It describes the professional activities of paramedics organised under five domains - Person-Centred Care; Collaborative Care; Safe Care; Self-Care; and Professional Care. Paramedics perform these activities across multiple contexts of practice by enacting a variety of roles depending on the event. Discussion and conclusion By exploring the variety of practice contexts and the expectations of paramedics across Canada, the NCFP provides a holistic, contemporary description of paramedic practice in Canada, providing a foundation for professional practice in a variety of settings. The five domains provide a comprehensive representation of paramedic practice helping to ensure care is ultimately and sufficiently aligned with the needs of the community and settings in which paramedics can practice. The NCFP can be used to inform education programs to better prepare paramedics for complex, interprofessional health and social care practice now and as practice continues to evolve.
Prevalence and Correlates of Health Risk Behaviors among University Students from a State in the Southern Region of Brazil
Authors: Guedes Dartagnan Pinto , de Lima Keila Aparecida
Published: April 2024

Background: Surveys conducted in different regions of the world showed that the prevalence rates of health risk behaviors (HRBs) in university students are sometimes higher than those found in non-university populations. This study aims to identify the prevalence rates and demographic and academic environment correlates associated with HRBs among Brazilian university students. Methods: In a cross-sectional epidemiological study, a random sample of 5,310 university students answered an online questionnaire with demographic (sex, age, skin color, marital status, and paid work) and academic setting information (housing type, size of campus, year and shift of study), as well as items clustered in four HRB domains: personal safety and violence, sexual behavior and contraception, addictive substance use, and eating habits, physical activity, and sleep. The data were analyzed statistically using bivariate analysis and hierarchical multiple regression. Results: The highest prevalence rates occurred in HRBs clustered in the domain of eating habits, physical activity, and sleep (> 60%), while HRBs for personal security and violence were less prevalent (
Climate Change Reduces the Effectiveness of Myanmar’s Protected Area Network
Authors: Chen Weiming , Wu Mingbo
Published: April 2024

Myanmar is located in the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot, but lacks understanding of the bio-diversity hotspots and protected areas within its borders. Climate change affects the effective-ness of protected areas and the potential distribution range of species. Based on Myanmar's re-gional characteristics, endangered status, and representativeness, this paper selects species and identifies biodiversity hotspots using the MaxEnt model. We studied the biodiversity within the terrestrial protected area network in Myanmar, as well as the potential for cross-boundary range shifts among protected areas under different climate scenarios. Species populations outside My-anmar's protected area network may not be able to find suitable habitats in the future, further exacerbating climate-related extinction risks. Additionally, some protected areas in Myanmar may not be fully utilizing their biodiversity representation potential, and with scientific spatial planning, Myanmar's protected areas could support a large number of species. In the context of continued warming, identifying new protected areas that encompass the future and current climatic niches of protected areas can increase the capacity for sustained biodiversity conservation. We hope that this study provides insights for increasing the effectiveness of Myanmar's protect-ed area network and emphasizes the urgency of coordinated protection of protected areas and biodiversity hotspots.
Exploring the Influencing Factors of Dietary Transition towards Vegetarianism in Korea’s Southern Provinces.
Authors: Njoku Okechukwu , kim HyunOk , Kim Gwi-Gon , Yulianti Ni Made Dhian Rani
Published: April 2024

This study explores the elements that influence consumer vegetarian diet choices in parts of South Korean provinces. The study examines these explanatory variables: ethical-animal-welfare, health, environment, social issues , mood-emotion, and religious-beliefs with vegetarianism serving as the dependent variable. The Likert scale data from 264 respondents were analyzed using logistic regression analysis. Results show that health, ethical-animal-welfare ideals as well as environmental concerns emerge as significant variables influencing the decision to embrace a vegetarian diet. This shows that consumers (international students) in Korea are becoming more aware of and concerned about health, ethical and sustainable dietary choices. Secondly, health plays a crucial role in the vegetarian diet selection, indicating that health-conscious people are more inclined to choose a vegetarian lifestyle. Religious belief and mood have various degrees of influence on the vegetarian diet decision. The findings of this study have consequences for consumer behavior, marketing managers, and decision-makers. Businesses in the food industry, in particular, can gain from catering to the needs and tastes of consumers that prioritize ethical-animal welfare ideals, as well as those that value health and environmental sustainability. Creating and advertising vegetarian and vegan choices in local restaurants can effectively attract and serve this specific target demographic.
Operative Benefits of Residential Battery Storage for Decarbonizing Energy Systems: A German Case Study
Authors: Wanapinit Natapon , Offermann Nils , Thelen Connor , Kost Christoph , Rehtanz Christian
Published: April 2024

The reduction of PV prices and interest in energy independence accelerate the adoption of residential battery storage. This storage can support various functions of an energy system undergoing decarbonization. In this work, operative benefits of the storage from the system perspective, namely, generation cost reduction and congestion mitigation, are investigated. Germany is chosen as a case study due to its strong reliance on variable renewable energy. For the analysis, an economic dispatch model with a high spatial resolution is coupled with a Pan-European transmission grid model. It is shown that the system's generation costs are highest when the assets are used only to maximize the PV self-consumption, and the costs are lowest when the storage also reacts to the market dynamics. This amounts to 6% cost reduction. Both operation strategies result in an equal level of grid congestion and infrastructure loading. This is improved with a strategy that accounts regional peak reduction as a secondary objective. The high congestion level emphasizes the grid expansion need to keep pace with the generation and electrification expansion necessary to decarbonize other sectors. Lastly, policymakers should enable multipurpose utilization, e.g., via the introduction of market-oriented retail electricity prices with intervention options for grid operators.
A Theory of Intelligences
Authors: Hochberg Michael E.
Published: April 2024

Intelligence is a human construct to represent the ability to achieve goals. Given this wide berth, intelligence has been defined countless times, studied in a variety of ways and represented using numerous measures. Understanding intelligence ultimately requires theory and quantification, both of which have proved elusive. I develop a framework – the Theory of Intelligences (TIS) – that applies across all systems from physics, to biology, humans and AI. TIS likens intelligence to a calculus, differentiating, correlating and integrating information. Intelligence operates at many levels and scales and TIS distils these into a parsimonious macroscopic framework centered on solving, planning and their optimization to accomplish goals. Notably, intelligence can be expressed in informational units or in units relative to goal difficulty, the latter defined as complexity relative to system (individual or benchmarked) ability. I present general equations for intelligence and its components, and a simple expression for the evolution of intelligence traits. The measures developed here could serve to gauge different facets of intelligence for any step-wise transformation of information. I argue that proxies such as environment, technology, society and collectives are essential to a general theory of intelligence and to possible evolutionary transitions in intelligence, particularly in humans. I conclude with testable predictions of TIS and offer several speculations.
Audio Distraction for Traction Pin Insertion
Authors: Albersheim Melissa , Huyke-Hernández Fernando A. , Doxey Stephen A. , Parikh Harsh R. , Boden Allison L. , Hernández-Irizarry Roberto C. , Horrigan Patrick B. , Quinnan Stephen M. , Cunningham Brian P.
Published: April 2024

Background:

Insertion of a skeletal traction pin in the distal femur or proximal tibia can be a painful and unpleasant experience for patients with a lower-extremity fracture. The purpose of this study was to determine whether providing patients with audio distraction (AD) during traction pin insertion can help to improve the patient-reported and the physician-reported experience and decrease pain and/or anxiety during the procedure.

Methods:

A prospective randomized controlled trial was conducted at 2 level-I trauma centers. Patients ≥18 years of age who were conscious and oriented and had a medical need for skeletal traction were included. Patients were randomized to receive AD or not receive AD during the procedure. All other procedure protocols were standardized and were the same for both groups. Surveys were completed by the patient and the physician immediately following the procedure. Patients rated their overall experience, pain, and anxiety during the procedure, and physicians rated the difficulty of the procedure, both on a 1-to-10 Likert scale.

Results:

A total of 54 patients met the inclusion criteria. Twenty-eight received AD and 26 did not. Femoral fractures were the most common injury (33 of 55, 60.0%). Baseline demographic characteristics did not differ between the 2 groups. The overall patient-reported procedure experience was similar between the AD and no-AD groups (3.9 ± 2.9 [95% confidence interval (CI), 3.1 to 4.7] versus 3.5 ± 2.2 [95% CI, 2.9 to 4.1], respectively; p = 0.55), as was pain (5.3 ± 3.2 [95% CI, 4.4 to 6.2] versus 6.1 ± 2.4 [95% CI, 5.4 to 6.8]; p = 0.28). However, anxiety levels were lower in the AD group (4.8 ± 3.3 [95% CI, 3.9 to 5.7] versus 7.1 ± 2.8 [95% CI, 6.3 to 7.9]; p = 0.007). Physician-reported procedure difficulty was similar between the groups (2.6 ± 2.0 [95% CI, 2.1 to 3.1] versus 2.8 ± 1.7 [95% CI, 2.3 to 3.3]; p = 0.69).

Conclusions:

AD is a practical, low-cost intervention that may reduce patient anxiety during lower-extremity skeletal traction pin insertion.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level I. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Radiographic Thigh Muscle Measurements Are a Reliable Predictor of Psoas Area and Sarcopenia
Authors: Lurie Benjamin , Nelson Karen , Pietryga Janel , Urness Daniel , Daubs Michael , Kubiak Erik , Surina Jeff
Published: April 2024

Background:

Sarcopenia is associated with falls, fractures, postoperative complications such as periprosthetic joint infections and dislocations, and early mortality. Although cross-sectional imaging is currently used to diagnose sarcopenia, inexpensive and widely available screening tests are needed. The goal of this study was to investigate whether measurements of thigh muscles made on radiographs can predict psoas muscle area and the presence of sarcopenia as determined on computed tomography (CT) scans.

Methods:

A retrospective radiographic review was performed to measure thigh muscle area in the coronal and sagittal planes using the differential in soft-tissue attenuation. Psoas muscle area on CT at L3 and L4 served as the gold standard for the diagnosis of sarcopenia. The correlation between thigh muscle and psoas muscle areas was determined, and multivariable models were developed to identify predictors of psoas muscle area and sarcopenia.

Results:

Four hundred and fourteen patients (252 male, 162 female) were identified. Seventy-six (18.4%) of the patients had an L4 psoas muscle area below the sex-specific cutoff value for sarcopenia. Patients with sarcopenia on abdominal CT had significantly smaller thigh muscle measurements on all radiographic views. The mean and standard deviation of the thigh muscle measurements were determined for the entire cohort and for patients with sarcopenia, as well as for adults aged 18 to 40 years without sarcopenia to provide normative reference values. The intraclass correlation coefficients were >0.8 for all radiographic measurements. The anteroposterior-view measurement of thigh muscle width and lateral-view measurement of quadriceps height were identified as independent predictors of both psoas muscle area and sarcopenia.

Conclusions:

Measurements of thigh muscle size made on radiographs can predict both psoas muscle area and sarcopenia. These measurements are a reliable and readily available screening tool to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of sarcopenia in the orthopaedic population.

Level of Evidence:

Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
LA RESPONSABILIDAD POR DAÑOS DE LOS ADMINISTRADORES DE LAS ENTIDADES DEPORTIVAS POR SUS ACTOS DE GESTIÓN. UN PANORAMA DESDE LA REGULACIÓN DEL CÓDIGO CIVIL Y COMERCIAL Y DE LA LEGISLACIÓN CONCURSAL DE LA REPÚBLICA ARGENTINA
Authors: Gerbaudo Germán E.
Published: April 2024

In the Argentine Republic, sports entities are organized under the legal form of civil associations. In this work we analyze the responsibility assumed by the administrators of these entities both in situations of insolvency and without it.
Effect of Different Concentrations of Sulphur on the Economic Yield of Three Chickpea (Cicer Arietinum) Varieties
Authors: Ameen Nimrah , Muhammad Murad
Published: April 2024

Chickpea is a major pulse crop in Pakistan, where it is grown from high-yield seeds in soil with plenty of water and all the necessary nutrients. Sulphur is the fourth major nutrient essential for biosynthesis, metabolism, and chlorophyll production. The high levels of sulphur create ideal conditions for growing crops, boosting their vitality, growth rate, and yields. The experiment was conducted at the field of University of Agriculture, Faisalabad Pakistan, to examine the effect of different concentrations of sulphur on the economic yield of three chickpea varieties (Cicer arietinum). Seeds of three chickpea (Cicer arietinum) varieties, Noor-19, Bittal-21, and Bittal-16 were collected from the Ayub Agricultural Research Institute in Faisalabad, Pakistan. The design of the experiment was a completely randomized design (CRD) with factorial arrangements having two factors: chickpea varieties (Noor-19, Bittal-21, and Bittal-16) and different levels of sulphur (120 mg and 240 mg) that were applied at the flowering stage. The data regarding PH (cm), RL (cm), 100 SWT (g), SL (cm), RFW (g), SDW (g), RDW (g), SFW (g), BY (%), EY (%), HI (%) and chlorophyll a, b, and c (%) were recorded during the growth period and at the time of harvest. The data was analyzed through Tukey's test for statistical analysis to see the variation among treatments.
Comparison of models for estimating the year-round range of Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) and predictions for New Zealand under current and future climates
Authors: Phillips Craig , Han Yujie , Davies Nicholas , Kean John
Published: April 2024

Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), fall armyworm (FAW), is a pest of corn, maize and other crops that has rapidly spread from its native range in the Americas to much of Africa, India, Asia and Australia, and was first detected in New Zealand (NZ) in March 2022. To estimate where FAW will occur year-round in NZ, we evaluated a range of published models of FAW’s potential distribution in tandem with various publicly available gridded climate datasets. Model predictions were compared to geocoded observations of where FAW has survived or died during winter in southeastern China and southeastern USA. All of the combinations of model and climate dataset tested performed relatively well, with an isotherm model performing best. This and a consensus of three Climex models were used to produce predictions for New Zealand in current and future climates. They predicted that in current climates FAW will occur year-round in the northern third of the North Island and in warmer years may also persist year-round in some coastal parts of the southern North Island and northern South Island. As NZ’s climate warms, FAW will occupy marginal areas year-round with increasing frequency and by about 2080 will occupy them year-round practically every year. Concurrently the areas where it occasionally survives winter during warm years will extend further south and further inland. Our study demonstrated the benefits for illustrating uncertainty in model results of evaluating a wider range of models and climate datasets than is normal practice in species distribution modelling. Moreover, using annual climate datasets in addition to 20 year means provided valuable information about annual fluctuations in FAW’s potential year-round distribution that is often lacking in species distribution estimates. The work demonstrated the high value of recording species absences (or failures to survive at specified locations) for measuring model performance. Documentation of such observations is generally rare and greater awareness of their value might encourage more recording.
Association between caffeine intake and fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FENO) in asthmatic children: NHANES 2007-2012
Authors: ZHENG Haitao , YAN Xiaoyu , REN Xianqing , ZHANG Xia , ZHAO Qianyi , DING Ying , YAN Yongbin
Published: April 2024

Background: Most studies explored the possible effects of caffeine on asthma and its symptoms in children, but the results were inconsistent. Few studies have investigated the association between caffeine and fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FENO). Therefore, we explored the association between caffeine intake and FENO in pediatric asthma patients by utilizing data from NHANES.
Methods: A total of 928 asthmatic children were enrolled in our study after screening NHANES participants from 2007 to 2012. Linear regression model and XGBoost model were used to assess the potential association between caffeine intake and FENO in asthmatic children. Linear or nonlinear association was further confirmed with generalized additive model and piecewise linear regression model. We also executed stratified analyses to identify specific populations.
Results: Multivariate linear regression models showed a negative correlation of caffeine intake with FENO in asthmatic children. Simultaneously, for each unit increase in caffeine intake (mg) FENO decreased by a certain amount, with 0.03 (-0.04,-0.02) ppb for model 1 which adjusted no covariates, 0.03 (-0.04,-0.01) ppb for model 2 which adjusted for sex, age, ethnicity, educational background, family income, and 0.03 (-0.05,-0.01) ppb for model 3 adjusted for BMI, waist, TC, TG, HDL based on model 2. Furthermore, we applied the XGBoost model of machine learning to assess the relative importance of chosen variables, and identified vitamin C, iron, caffeine intake, vitamin B12 and vitamin D as the five most significant variables for FENO. And the generalized additive model and the piecewise linear regression model further verified this linear and inverse association.
Conclusion: Our study elucidated the linear and inverse relationship between caffeine intake and FENO in pediatric asthma patients, suggesting a potential immunological role of caffeine intake in asthmatic children. These findings pave the way for further research on the role of caffeine in the pathogenesis and treatment of asthma, and underscore the importance of recognizing the immunological implications of caffeine in asthma management.
Processes of change in family therapies for anorexia nervosa: a systematic review and meta-synthesis of qualitative data
Authors: Cripps Sophie , Serpell Lucy , Pugh Matthew
Published: April 2024

Objective: To synthesise young person and family member perspectives on processes of change in family therapy for anorexia nervosa (AN), including systemic family therapy and manualised family-based treatment, to obtain an understanding of what helps and hinders positive change.
Method: A systematic search of the literature was conducted to identify qualitative studies focussing on experiences of therapeutic change within family therapies for AN from the perspectives of young people and their families. Fourteen studies met inclusion criteria and underwent quality appraisal following which they were synthesised using a meta-synthesis approach.
Results: Six overarching themes were generated: “The psychological underpinnings of AN”; “The therapeutic relationship”; Confinement to a “script”; “A disempowering therapeutic context”; “Externalisation”; and “Family involvement”. Positive change was helped by understanding and support given to the young person’s overall psychological and emotional development and wellbeing, as well as positive therapeutic relationships, relational containment within the family system and externalising conversations in which young people felt seen and heard as individuals beyond an eating disorder. Positive change was hindered by inflexibility in the treatment approach, counter-effects of externalisation, negative experiences of the therapist, a narrow focus on food-intake and weight, as well as the neglect of family difficulties, emotional experiences, and psychological factors.
Conclusions: Positive change regarding the young person’s eating-related difficulties ensued in the context of positive relational changes between the young person, their family members and the therapist, highlighting the significance of secure and trusting relationships. The findings of this review can be utilised by Eating Disorder services to consider how they may adapt to the needs of young people and their families in order to improve treatment satisfaction, treatment outcomes, and in turn reduce risk for chronicity in AN.
Acidic hydrolytic stability of the Lifitegrast: Degradation, Method development, Validation, Synthesis, LC-MS/NMR Characterization, In silico and In vitro cytotoxicity
Authors: Kandula Jony Susanna , Gantala Mahendar , Nishad Ankita , Shankar Sujithra , Vyas Shivam Kumar , Dixit Vaibhav A , Singh Vivek , P Radhakrishnanand
Published: April 2024

In addition to the multiple vision problems, the toxicity of the degradation products of ophthalmic medications on eye health is today’s concern. Hence, degradation studies of ophthalmic drug and toxicity establishment of the degradation products have been considered. The manuscript includes simple, mass-compatible HPLC methodology and comprehensive protocol for forced degradation studies of the lifitegrast (LFT). Two degradants, (S)-2-(5,7-dichloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinoline-6-carboxamido)-3-(3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl) propanoic acid, (DP1) and benzofuran-6-carboxylicacid (DP2) were formed under acidic stress conditions. An accurate, robust HPLC method has been validated for routine quality control analysis of LFT. Theoretical quantum chemical calculations of reaction enthalpy were studied to explain the formation of DP1 and DP2. A synthesis scheme for DP1 was employed, and characterised using LC-ESI-MS, NMR techniques. The characterization of DP2 was conducted using various analytical advancements. By employing Swiss ADME software, the details of DPs concerning various physicochemical characteristics, and skin permeation capabilities were predicted. A DEREK prediction has revealed the meta-structures in the test molecules which have adverse toxicological properties. Human corneal epithelial (HCE) cell viability assessment upon treatment with LFT DPs revealed that the compound DP2 showed significant cytotoxicity at lower concentration (8 µg/mL) whereas DP1 showed significant toxicity only at higher concentrations (1280 µg/mL).