bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Complex Rayleigh-Van Der Pol-Duffing Oscillators: Dynamics, Phase and
Anti-Phase Synchronization
Authors: . Mahmoud Gamal M. , Farghaly Ahmed A. , Abed-Elhameed Tarek M. , Al Themairi Asma
Published: November 2023

This paper introduces the complex Rayleigh-van der Pol-Duffing oscillators (RVDOs), which are hyperchaotic and can be either autonomous or non-autonomous. The fundamental dynamics of the autonomous and nonautonomous complex RVDOs including dissipation, symmetry, fixed points and their stability are studied. These oscillators are found in various important fields of physics and engineering. The paper proposes a scheme to achieve phase synchronization (PS) and antiphase synchronization (APS) for different dimensional models. These kinds of synchronization are considered as generalization of several other types of synchronization. For this scheme we use the active control method based on Lyapunov stability theory. By analytically determining the control functions, the scheme achieved PS and APS. Our scheme is applied to study PS of hyperchaotic behaviours
for two distinct hyperchaotic non-autonomous and autonomous complex RVDOs. Additionally, the scheme is employed to achieve APS of chaotic real non-autonomous RVDO and hyperchaotic complex
autonomous RVDO, including those with different dimensions. Our work presents numerical results that plot the amplitudes and phases of these hyperchaotic behaviours, demonstrating the successful achievement of PS and APS.
Multiplex Avidity Assay for Evaluating Thyroid Autoantibodies
Authors: Savvateeva Elena , Sokolova Vera , Yukina Marina , Nuralieva Nurana , Kulagina Elena , Isaeva Maria , Troshina Ekaterina , Gryadunov Dmitry
Published: November 2023

Autoantibodies (Abs) to thyroid antigens are associated with autoimmune thyroid disease (AITD), although sometimes they have no clear clinical significance. The aim of this study was to evaluate the avidity of thyroid Abs in the sera of AITD patients and non-AITD Abs carriers. A multiplex microarray-based assay was developed to detect the avidity of thyroid disease-associated Abs, including Abs to thyroperoxidase (TPO), thyroglobulin (Tg), pendrin, thyroid hormones T3 and T4, pyruvate kinase, and carbonic anhydrase 2. The method is based on indirect multiplex assay with an additional step involving the chaotrope destruction of the autoantibody-antigen complexes. The avidity index (AI) is then calculated. The method was tested on clinical cohort (n =117) and then confirmed by studies with another independent cohort (n =123). For the confirmation study, the median AI for AbTg was 29.9% among healthy Abs carriers, 52.6% for AITD patients, and 92.7% for non-AITD type 1 diabetes (T1D) patients. Median AI for AbTPO were 39.9% in healthy carriers, 73.4% in AITD patients, 83.2% in T1D patients, and 98.5% in AITD patients with thyroid neoplasm. The presence of high-avidity AbTg in T1D patients was also confirmed by a modified ELISA. Identification of high-avidity autoantibodies to thyroid proteins in non-thyroid T1D patients requires further studies.
(Nano)granules Involving Aggregation at a Passage to the Nanoscale as Viewed in Terms of Diffusive Heisenberg Relation
Authors: Gadomski Adam
Published: November 2023

This feature study attempts on setting a granules involving mesoscopic matter-aggregation context as a problem of passing locally by the matter-aggregating system from classical stochastic (mesoscopic limit) to a quantum description (nanoscale quantum-size effect limit). A d-dimensional entropy-production aggregation of the granules-involving matter is considered in terms of a (sub)diffusive realization. It turns out that when taking a full d-dimensional pathway of the aggregation toward the nanoscale, one is capable of disclosing a Heisenberg type (diffusional) relation, setting up an upper uncertainty bound for the (sub)diffusive very slow granules-including environment that matches the quantum limit of h/2pm (m– average mass of a granule; h – the Planck’s constant) for the diffusion coefficient of the aggregation, likely first proposed by Fürth in 1933, and qualitatively foreseen by Schrödinger some years before, both in the context of a diffusing particle cluster. The classical-quantum passage uncovered here, also termed insightfully the quantum-size effect (as borrowed from the quantum dots’ parlance), works properly for the three-dimensional (d=3) case, making use of a substantial physical fact that the (nano)granules interact readily via their surfaces with the also granular surroundings in which they are immersed. This natural observation is embodied in the basic averaging construction of the diffusion coefficient of the aggregation of interest. Certain, possibly biomedical, applications of the model can also be viewed by prospective inspection of tiny inhomogeneities in nanofibrillar and/or lamellar matter for which certain numerical realizations are plausible to prepare based on thorough nanoscale experiments.
Embedded Spatial-Temporal Convolutional Neural Network Based on Scattered Light Signals for Fire and Interferential Aerosols Classification
Authors: Xu Fang , Zhu Ming , Lin Mengxue , Wang Maosen , Chen Lei
Published: November 2023

Photoelectric smoke detectors are the most cost-effective devices for very early fire alarms. However, due to different light intensity response values for different fire smoke and interference from interferential aerosols, they have a high false alarm rate, which limits their popularity in Chinese homes. To address these issues, an embedded spatial-temporal convolutional neural network (EST-CNN) model is proposed for real fire smokes identification and aerosols (fire smokes and interferential aerosol) classification. EST-CNN consists of three modules including information fusion, scattering feature extraction, and aerosol classification. Moreover, a two dimensional spatial-temporal scattering (2D-TS) matrix is designed to fuse the scattered light intensities in different channels and adjacent time slices, which is the output of the information fusion module and the input of the scattering feature extraction module. EST-CNN is trained and tested with experimental data measured on the established fire test platform using the developed dual-wavelength dual-angle photoelectric smoke detector. The optimal network parameters are selected through extensive experiments resulting in an average classification accuracy of 95.6% for different aerosols with only 66 kB network parameters. The experimental results demonstrate the feasibility of the designed EST-CNN model to be directly installed in existing commercial photoelectric smoke detectors to realize aerosol classification.
Insights on Ferritin as a Screening and a Diagnostic Marker for Still’s Disease: A Narrative review
Authors: Soni Zeal , Vora Samkit , Desai Dev
Published: November 2023

Still’s disease, also known as systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis, is an autoimmune disorder with a triad of fever, salmon pink rash, and inflammatory polyarthritis. Its diagnosis is quite challenging due to the lack of specific symptoms and overlap with many other rheumatological and autoimmune disorders. However, recent studies have shown that high serum ferritin levels can act as a biomarker for this disease. Ferritin is an intracellular iron storage protein that acts as a pro-inflammatory reactant. There are various explanations indicating the presence of higher ferritin levels in Still's disease. High ferritin tells us about disease severity, and prognosis and can also predict life-threatening complications that can be easily prevented and thus it helps in reducing mortality associated with Still's disease. However, there are certain limitations to the use of ferritin as the only diagnostic marker for Still's disease. Overcoming those limitations can take the diagnosis of Still's disease to a higher level.
Exploring Novel Variants of Cytochrome P450 Reductase Gene (POR) from the Genome Aggregation Database by Integrating Bioinformatic Tools and Functional Assays
Authors: Rojas Velazquez Maria Natalia , Therkelsen Søren , Pandey Amit V.
Published: November 2023

Cytochrome P450 oxidoreductase (POR) is an essential redox partner for steroid and drug-metabolizing cytochromes P450 located in the endoplasmic reticulum. Mutations in POR lead to metabolic disorders, including congenital adrenal hyperplasia, and affect the metabolism of steroids, drugs, and xenobiotics. In this study, we examined approximately 450 missense variants of the POR gene listed in the Genome Aggregation Database (gnomAD) using eleven different in silico prediction tools. We found that 64 novel variants were consistently predicted to be disease-causing by most tools. To validate our findings, we conducted population analysis and selected two variations in POR for further investigation. The human POR wild type, along with the R268W and L577P variants, were expressed in bacteria and subjected to enzyme kinetic assays using model substrate. We also examined the activities of several cytochrome P450 proteins in the presence of POR (WT or variants) by combining P450 and reductase proteins in liposomes. We observed a decrease in enzymatic activities (ranging from 35% to 85%) of key drug metabolizing enzymes, supported by POR variants R288W and L577P compared to WT-POR. These results validate our approach of curating a vast amount of data from genome projects and provide an updated and reliable reference for diagnosing POR deficiency.
Effect of Solar Pre-drying and Yeast Starter Inoculation Treatments on the Chemical Composition of Cocoa (Theobroma cacao L.) Beans from Southwestern Colombia
Authors: Tejeda Juan Florencio , Arango-Angarita Jéssica , Cuervo Jairo Leonardo
Published: November 2023

Cocoa beans of the CCN-51 clone harvested in the Tumaco region (Nariño, Colombia) were fermented following four different treatments: (1) spontaneously (at room temperature for 120 h) in traditional conditions (Control); (2) traditional processing with a pre-drying (sun-dried for 24 h) treatment (PD); (3) with fermentation (for 120 h) after inoculation of a yeast starter culture (YS); and (4) including both treatments, pre-drying and yeast inoculation (PD+YS). Chemical composition, fatty acids, total polyphenol, methylxanthines (theobromine and caffeine) and lactic acid content of cocoa beans were determined. Chemical and fatty acid composition and theobromine content were not affected by the different fermentation treatment applied. When analysing total polyphenol content, YS and PD+YS treatments significantly increased the content of these compounds at the end of the fermentation process, while PD treatment decreased the caffeine content of cocoa beans. Finally, lactic acid content decreased as a consequence of both inoculation of yeast starter and mainly the pre-drying treatment. In conclusion, solar pre-drying in the open air and the inoculation of a yeast starter treatments could improve the final quality of coca beans.
Synergistic Flame-Retardant Effect of DOPO-Based Derivative and Modified Sepiolite on Flame Retardancy, Thermal Decomposition and Mechanical Properties of PEO/PBAT Blends
Authors: Huang Weijiang , Tu Chunyun , Tian Qin , Wang Kui , Yang Chunlin , Ma Chao , Xu Xiaolu , Yan Wei
Published: November 2023

A bridged 9,10-dihydro-9-oxa-10-phosphaphenanthrene-10-oxide (DOPO) derivative (PN-DOPO) in combination with aluminum phosphates coated sepiolite (Sep@AlPO4) was used to improve the flame retardancy, thermal stability and mechanical properties of poly (ethylene oxide) (PEO)/poly (butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT) blends. The synergistic effects of PN-DOPO and Sep@AlPO4 on the fire resistance, thermal decomposition behavior and mechanical properties of PEO/PBAT composites were investigated systematically. The results indicated that 5 wt % Sep@AlPO4 combined with 10 wt% PN-DOPO into PEO/PBAT achieved a V-1 rating in UL-94 test and the LOI value increased to 23.7%, meanwhile, the peak-heat release rate (p-HRR), av-HRR and total heat release (THR) values of PEO/PBAT/PN10%/Sep5% composites decreased by 35.6%, 11.0% and 23.0% compared with those of PEO/PBAT, respectively. The thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) results confirmed that PN-DOPO/Sep@AlPO4 could enhance the initial thermal stability and char yield of PEO/PBAT matrix, and TGA/Fourier transform infrared spectrometry (TGA-FTIR) results revealed that the composites exhibited the absorption peaks of phosphorous-containing groups and an increase in gas-phase volatiles during the thermal decomposition process. The digital photographs and morphological structures of char residues demonstrated that PN-DOPO and Sep@AlPO4 mixtures benefited to the formation of a more continuous and dense carbon layer on the composites surface during combustion. Rheological behavior revealed that a higher storage modulus, loss modulus and complex viscosity of PEO/PBAT/PN-DOPO/Sep@AlPO4 composites could also promote the cross-linking structure during burning. Furthermore, the PEO/PBAT/PN-DOPO/Sep@AlPO4 composites exhibited excellent mechanical properties in terms of elongation at break and flexural performance than the PEO/PBAT system. All the results demonstrated that PEO/PBAT system modified by the combination of PN-DOPO and Sep@AlPO4 not only exhibited excellent synergistic effect on the flame retardance, but also had good improvement on thermal stability and mechanical properties, indicating the potential application in areas requiring fire safety.
The Neutron Skin of 48Ca and 208Pb: A Critical Analysis
Authors: Sammarruca Francesca
Published: November 2023

We discuss the neutron skins of 48Ca and 208Pb. We review and critically examine modern
predictions and empirical constraints, with special attention to the dierent interpretations of the
ndings from the PREX-II experiment and the recently reported value of the neutron skin in 48Ca
extracted from the CREX experiment. We argue that, in the spirit of the ab initio philosophy,
the path to understanding the behavior of dense neutron-rich matter must not circumvent fundamental
nuclear forces. Based only on that argument, a thick neutron skin in 208Pb is highly unlikely.
Elasticity and Viscoelasticity Imaging Using Small Particles Exposed to an External Force
Authors: Koruk Hasan , Pouliopoulos Antonios N.
Published: November 2023

Particle-mediated elasticity/viscoelasticity imaging has potential to expand the elasticity imaging field, as it can provide accurate and local tissue elastic properties as well as density, Poisson’s ratio, and viscosity. Here, we investigated elasticity imaging based on the use of small particles located within the tissue and at the tissue interface exposed to a static and dynamic external load. First, we discuss elasticity/viscoelasticity imaging methods based on the use of particles (bubbles and rigid spheres) located within the tissue. Elasticity/viscoelasticity imaging techniques based on the use of particles (bubbles, rigid and soft spheres) located at the tissue interface are then presented. Based on new advances, we updated some of the models for the responses of the particles located within the tissue and at the tissue interface available in the literature. Finally, we compared the mathematical models for the particles located within the tissue and at the tissue interface and evaluated the elasticity/viscoelasticity imaging methods based on the use of small particles. Therefore, instead of the use of the term elasticity imaging, we suggest the use of the term viscoelasticity imaging.
THE LEVEL OF SATISFACTION WITH THE ORGANIZATION OF ONLINE LEARNING AMONG HIGHER EDUCATION STUDENTS
Authors: Knysh Anastasia , Pidbutskyi Oleksiy
Published: November 2023

the article is devoted to the study of the level of satisfaction of higher education students with various aspects of the organization of online education. The results of a survey of 124 applicants representing various higher education institutions of Ukraine are presented. It is shown that the main parameters that must be taken into account when organizing online training are: training platform, content, communication organization, schedule organization, evaluation and reporting, technical support, motivation. Each of these aspects has its own characteristics and requires attention and systematic support. The most optimal way of researching the level of satisfaction with the organization of online education is a questionnaire, as a research method that allows you to quickly and flexibly obtain information about new topics in the field of education. Based on the results of the questionnaire, it was determined that the applicants are most satisfied with the evaluation and reporting, the quality of the educational content, the organization of communication and the platform for learning. Applicants consider the organization of the schedule, technical support of the educational process, and support of educational motivation to be unsatisfactory.
ROLE LEADERSHIP MODEL: THEORETICAL FOUNDATION AND ROLE QUESTIONNAIRE LEADERSHIP SKILLS
Authors: Bogdan Zhanna
Published: November 2023

The article is devoted to the study of the phenomenon of leadership skills from the standpoint of the role approach, as well as the standardization of the role–structure questionnaire of leadership skills. The study is focused on the theoretical substantiation of the role structure of leadership skills and testing the role–structure questionnaire. The study was attended by 236 studied at the age of 18-55 as a psychometric sample. Tested in this study The role– structure questionnaire of leadership skills allows to evaluate the degree of development of leadership skills by the roles of the Negotiator, who performs a communicative function of leadership, a Coach, who performs a didactic function of leadership, a Guide who performs an organizational function of leadership, a Counsellor, who performs the communicative and organizational function of leadership, a Motivator who performs a motivational function of leadership, a Friend who performs an emotional function of leadership. A Director who performs an instrumental and managerial function of leadership and a Team-bilder who performs a team of leadership.
WEB DEVELOPERS' PERCEPTIONS ABOUT THE PERSONALITY OF A SUCCESSFUL SPECIALIST
Authors: Lobachov Oleksiy
Published: November 2023

The article is devoted to an empirical study of the ideas of web developers about the success of a specialist in their professional field. It was determined that in modern science considerable attention is paid to the study of the personality of software developers and their influence on the success of professional and team activities. It is shown that the subjective differential method was used to diagnose respondents' ideas about the personality of a successful web developer, which allows people to express their subjective experiences and feelings about a certain personality or concept. A special advantage of the technique is that it allows quantitative measurement of such difficult-to-measure indicators as perceptions. In the course of empirical research, it was determined that when evaluating a successful personality, web developers chose only qualities from the positive spectrum. From their point of view, the most common qualities of a successful web developer are: rationality, meaningfulness, excitement, need, high salary, and voluntariness.
PROTECTIVE FACTORS OF THE RESILIENCY PROCESS
Authors: Pidbutska Nina , Martynenko Yevhenii
Published: November 2023

In this article, the analyzed scientific literature is devoted to the process of resiliency and the protective factors involved in this process. It was determined that protective factors are personal resources that interact with risks and stresses, reducing their consequences, they can be internal and external. Internal factors will be divided into physical, which include health and genetics, and mental, which are a set of personal qualities.

External factors include social ones, such as the presence of support from family and friends, positive interaction with other systems.Based on this, models of internal and external protective factors were developed. Each component of the model is characterized, and its influence on the process of building resilience is described.
THE ROLE OF PSYCHOLOGICAL KNOWLEDGE IN MARKETING COMMUNICATIONS
Authors: Vorobieva Yevheniia
Published: November 2023

The article highlights the peculiarities of implementing the results of psychological research for the development of marketing. It is also analyzed that psychological knowledge has a direct impact on the effectiveness of marketing communications and advertising.The basic principles on which the use of triggers in marketing communications is based are defined.The article contains the author’s own interpretation of the directions of development of the marketing psychologist’s activity in modern conditions.
ACMEOLOGICAL VECTORS OF EFFECTIVE MANAGEMENT
Authors: Sokol Yevgen , Ponomaryov Olexandr
Published: November 2023

It is shown that the complication of social life, in particular the formation of Industry 4.0, requires training of its personnel at the level of education 4.0 and the use of innovative management technologies also at the level of 4.0. The thesis that the proper efficiency of management activity is achieved thanks to the purposeful application of the archaeological approach is substantiated. The meaning of the concept of acme as the highest level of personal and professional development of a manager is presented. The role of education in contributing to the achievement of acme and in the formation of leadership qualities is revealed. It is shown that the acmeology of management is considered a specific field of knowledge that ensures the successful achievement by the manager of the highest level of efficiency of professional management activity.
PROJECT TEAM MANAGEMENT MODEL UNDER RISK CONDITIONS
Authors: Rohovyi Mykyta , Grinchenko Marina
Published: November 2023

The paper examines the state of the problem of the influence of risks on the project team's work process. The processes of the team's work during the implementation of the project sprint are defined. The authors identified risk factors that affect the effectiveness of the project team. An analysis of modern approaches was carried out and three directions were identified, which represent the research of project team management processes under conditions of risk. A comprehensive reference model of project team management under risk conditions is proposed in the form of a framework. It reflects the interrelationship of four models: the project team behavior model, the model for assessing the quality of the formation of sprint tasks, the model for determining the distribution of tasks in the project team, and the model for the formation of recommendations. The project team evaluates the text description of the task, obtained from the information system, using the sprint task formation quality assessment model. Natural language processing methods are used to create a model for evaluating the quality of forming sprint tasks, which combine the method of processing text information and the method of learning based on precedents, which allows taking into account the previous experience of the team and its behavior. The project team behavior model allows taking into account the risks of irrational work organization during the sprint. The behavior of the project team is analyzed using Process Mining methods. The case representation model allows the project team to store and reuse knowledge and experience based on simulation modeling and reinforcement learning approaches. It allows the team to determine and evaluate possible options for the distribution of tasks and resources in the team in accordance with the reduction of possible risks. The central element of the proposed framework is the model of recommendations used in decision-making. It provides the project team with the necessary information for effective decision-making in terms of risks in project management. The proposed framework provides an opportunity to reduce the impact of the risks of non-fulfillment of project tasks during the sprint. Further studies of the task of managing the project team under conditions of risk should be directed to the development of specified models of the proposed framework
THE RESONANT AMPLIFIER OF THE ACTIVE ELECTRICAL POWER WITH ADDITIONAL VOLTAGE SOURCE. SUGGESTIONS, ANALYSIS, NUMERICAL ESTIMATES
Authors: Batygin Yuriy , Gavrilova Tetyana , Shinderuk Svitlana , Chaplygin Evgeniy
Published: November 2023

The problem of increasing energy saving in industry leads to the need to develop new technical devices. The paper presents and analyzes the circuit of the resonance amplifier of active electric power, evaluates the characteristics of electromagnetic processes for the fundamental substantiation of the operation of real devices based on this circuit. Mathematical analysis of electromagnetic processes taking place was carried out using strict methods of the theory of electric circuits. The advantages of this scheme in comparison with similar previous proposals are shown. The device includes four active-reactive circuits that are inductively connected. The first of them is an input circuit with a harmonic signal source that needs to be amplified. The second circuit generates enhanced reactive power in the "voltage resonance" mode. The third circuit with an additional voltage source provides reactive power output from the second circuit in the "resonance of currents" mode without adverse effects on amplification processes. The fourth circuit, inductively connected to the third circuit, contains an output load - a resistor that simulates the allocation of active power. On the basis of the analysis and numerical evaluation of the characteristics of the processes taking place in the proposed scheme of the resonance amplifier of active electric power, its basic efficiency is shown. The calculations of the experimental model made it possible to formulate recommendations for the selection of circuit elements of a working resonant amplifier with a high efficiency for low-impedance output loads. The considered real parameters of the device make it possible to minimize the dissipation of the energy of converted electrical signals and to increase the amplification factor of the electric power of harmonic currents and voltage by choosing the element base. The obtained results can be considered as practical recommendations for the creation of real devices for amplifying active electric power for use in various industries.
SIMULATION OF UNDEFORMED CHIP FORMED DURING CUTTING FOR INTERNAL CROWN TOOTH BY THE "POWER SKIVING" METHOD
Authors: Slipchuk Andrii
Published: November 2023

Today, the world's leading enterprises engaged in the manufacture of gear wheels increasingly use the Power Skiving method of cutting the gear crown on the wheel. This modern method allows you to process wheels with an external and internal crown, both spur and helical, as well as cut slots on shafts or hubs. This technology combines elements of turning and milling and ensures a very short production time. However, every year this method is increasingly improved, and in terms of its kinematics it is very complex and requires precise calculations. Determining the exact position of the tool and the workpiece at each moment of time is necessary for synchronizing movements during cutting. The principle of building an undeformed chip when cutting an internal straight-tooth crown by the Power Skiving method is shown. Section parameters for chip sections are obtained. They are the basis for modeling and calculating the values of cutting forces, friction, the necessary work that is needed to eliminate the allowance, heat flows that occur during cutting, the intensity of tool heating, temperature and wear of the tool, simulation of oscillations and dynamic processes. Complete information about the size and shape of the sheared layers, their size in different sections of the tooth at each moment of the cutting time is necessary for the description of various interrelated and interdependent deformation and contact processes. The established regularities of their continuous cyclical change during the revolution of the cutting tool are required for a comprehensive reproduction of the processes that occur during the cutting process of the toothed crown. A complex system of grapho-analytical, mathematical and computer modeling of this process has been developed for such a task. Kinematics is taken into account and the patterns of cutting-forming processes are reliably reproduced. The application of the grapho-analytical method of constructing sections for an undeformed chip is presented, which made it possible to establish its geometry and main characteristics, as well as to obtain a 3D model. Adequate models of chip formation are obtained. Quantitative estimates of parameters for slices in the process of Power Skiving are analyzed.
Proof of Concept in a Full-Scale Field Test for the Novel Micro-Turbine Drilling Technology from a Cased Borehole in Granite Rock
Authors: Geissler Niklas , Garsche Florian , Samus Vitalii , Polat Berker , Di Mare Francesca , Bracke Rolf
Published: November 2023

Exploration risks of geothermal projects are high, as required economic production rates are often not achieved. Stimulation methods from the oil and gas industry, such as radial jet drilling (RJD), which can be used to cost-effectively create flow paths around a main borehole, are usually not applicable in geothermal applications due to especially hard reservoir formations. Because of that, a novel technology called micro-turbine drilling (MTD®) has been developed, which allows for the drilling of micro-sidetracks from cased boreholes even into very hard reservoir rock. The approach is based on the principles of the RJD operation. However, instead of a jetting nozzle, a microdrilling turbine is used to drive a bit that mechanically drills rock. This study presents the results of the proof of concept for MTD, which was conducted in the BedrettoLab in Switzerland at a depth of up to 1,053 ft (321 m) in granite rock.
Sociodemographic predictors of parenting stress among mothers in disadvantaged settings: evidence from rural and urban study sites in Kenya and Zambia
Authors: Okelo Kenneth Odhiambo , Auyeung Bonnie , King Josiah , Murray Aja Louise , Kitsao-Wekulo Patricia , Onyango Silas , Wambui Elizabeth
Published: November 2023

Background: Parental stress occurs when parenting demands are greater than the resources available to cope with parenting. Previous research has identified household wealth, educational level, marital status, age, and number of dependent children as predictors of parental stress. However, limited evidence exists from sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). This study investigated the sociodemographic predictors of parenting stress among mothers in Kenya and Zambia.
Methods: Data were obtained from longitudinal nurturing care evaluation studies conducted in rural and urban study sites in Kenya and Zambia. Mean parental stress scores (PSS) were compared across study sites, and multiple regression modelling was used to examine associations between sociodemographic predictors (household income, educational level, marital status, maternal age, child age, number of children aged <5 years) and PSS, adjusting for clustering and other predictors.
Results: The mean PSS was lower in rural study sites and higher in urban sites (Kenya rural: 37.6 [SD=11.8], Kenya urban: 48.8 [SD=4.2], and Zambia rural: 43.0 [SD=9.1]). In addition, mothers’ income and educational level were associated with PSS (income: Kenya rural, β = -0.43; 95% CI[-16.07, -5.74]; P =.003**; Kenya urban, β = -0.33; 95% CI[-6.69, -0.80]; P =.01*; education: Kenya rural, β = -0.24; 95% CI[-8.97, -1.68]; P=.005**).
Conclusion: Measures to increase education levels, alleviate poverty, and improve household incomes, such as subsidising childcare, improving parental stress levels, and positive parenting practices, lead to better growth and development of their children.
Trial registration: PACTR201905787868050 and PACTR20180774832663
Enhanced efficiency of refractory organic pollutant degradation over a wide pH range by peroxymonosulfate activated by cobalt-doped FeS
Authors: Pan Yanting , Zhang Feng , Zhou Ziyang , Jiang Feng , Wang Xiaoming , Yin Hui , Tan Wenfeng , Feng Xionghan
Published: November 2023

A series of cobalt-doped FeS (x% Co-FeS) nanoparticles prepared using a hydrothermal method were introduced as catalysts to generate powerful radicals from peroxymonosulfate (PMS) for endocrine disrupter bisphenol S (BPS) degradation in wastewater. The kinetic results showed that Co-doped FeS substantially enhanced the catalytic performance concerning FeS in activating the oxidative degradation of BPS by PMS, and activation efficiency increased with the proportion of Co-doping. The pH was controlled with a 50 mM phosphate buffer, and over 95% of BPS (20 mg/L) was removed within 20 min at pH 6 by 7% Co-doped FeS. Moreover, exceptional activation was obtained over a wide pH range (pH 4–11). Degradation efficiency increased with increasing catalyst loading and PMS concentration, and different background ions and temperatures minimally affected BPS degradation, implying suitability for different sewage environments. Furthermore, quenching experiments coupled with electron paramagnetic resonance technology identified singlet oxygen (1O2) and sulfate radicals (SO4•−) as the primary reactive oxygen species for BPS degradation. In addition, the catalysts presented favourable cyclability and stability in repeated batch experiments, providing insights into the application of Co-doped FeS as a promising heterogeneous catalyst for removing refractory organic contaminants in Fenton-like systems.
The effect of soft tissues on dynamical behavior of bovine tibia using modal analysis
Authors: Tarzjani Hamid Dehghan , Nazari Mohammad Ali , Mahjoob Mohammad
Published: November 2023

The dynamical behavior and vibrational characteristics of bone and the attached soft tissues, such as natural frequencies are widely used in therapeutic vibrations including the detection of the pain threshold and tissue damage, fracture healing and bone remodeling, and design of implants. Most of studies, have focused on either bone or the soft tissues to investigate the final effects of these treatments. In the present research the vibrational characteristics of combined bone-soft tissues are studied. For this purpose, the bovine tibia and its attached muscles and tendons have been targeted. The experimental results of modal tests were collected and compared with a three-dimensional finite element analysis. Bone was modeled as an inhomogeneous isotropic material. The model includes bone marrow as an isotropic homogeneous material and the attached soft tissues as an incompressible hyperelastic isotropic material. It was found that the inhomogeneity bone and considering bone marrow does not enhance much the model results. The effect of soft tissues on the natural frequencies has shown a reduction of 12% in the first two transverse modes and up to 70% in higher modes. The stiffening effect of soft tissue (due to large deformation) on the as natural frequencies was also investigated. An increase of up to 70% (at some frequencies) was observed in larger deformations.
Historical Trends of Trace Metals in the Sepetiba Bay Sediments: Pollution Indexes, Fluxes and Inventories
Authors: Rodrigues Sarah K. , Machado Wilson , Barreira João , Vinzón Susana
Published: November 2023

The environmental condition of surface sediments in Sepetiba Bay is influenced by the presence of trace metals derived from human activities. The trace metals contents vary considerably, with the highest values recorded in the inner part of the bay (Cd: 2.4 , Cu: 18.8, Ni: 12.2 , Pb: 20.4, Zn: 393 mg kg-1) and the lowest at Marambaia Barrier Island area (Cd: non-detected, Cu: 2.6, Ni: 0.2, Pb: 0.2, Zn: 3.35 mg kg-1). Mean annual fluxes of trace metals have increased since the 1950s, especially for Cd (8 x 10-5 to 0.4 g m-2 y-1) and Zn (4.0 to 60.9 g m-2 y-1) at Enseada das Garças. However, decreasing patterns towards the surface occur for all elements since the 2000’s. Pollution indexes reveal that Cd is the most concerning trace metal in Sepetiba Bay, with "high contamination and ecological risk" in recent layers of the inner area and “moderate contamination and ecological risk” at Marambaia Barrier Island region. Mineral phases and ligands are critical in the metal's distribution, due to the dynamic environment, continuously altered by natural and anthropogenic remobilization events. After examining the trends in Cd and Zn over the past 50 years regarding the point source of pollution, it is time to investigate other metals of concern, such as Cu and Pb, especially given the growth of industrial and harbor activities in the Sepetiba Bay basin. Other point and non-point pollution sources for the system are expected. Recent episodes of sediment remobilization raise concerns about the release of contaminants into the water column, increasing their bioavailability and toxicity.
The Information Content of US Industry Returns: Further Evidence
Authors: Laopodis Nikiforos T.
Published: November 2023

This paper re-examines the information content of selected US industries focusing on the dynamic linkages among these industries, the stock market and a number of fundamental variables. The period of investigation spans from January 1960 to December 2021. The empirical strategy includes several methodologies such as regressions, vector autoregressions and volatility models. The idea is to investigate the dynamic linkages among these series at both the mean and the volatility levels. The results point to significant industry returns’ explanatory power for many predictors of economic activity including the stock market. Further, time-varying analysis of the linkages among the industries and the stock market’s returns reveal that certain industries such as Oil and Financials provide consistent information leadership over other industries and across decades. Further, upon assessing the industry–market return volatility spillovers, it was found that a market risk–return profile may not always be economically significant and timely for investors. Finally, crises, financial or otherwise, affect industries but to differing degrees.
JEL classifications: E44, G12, G14
Core genes driving climate adaptation in plants
Authors: Yeaman Samuel , Whiting James , Booker Tom , Rougeux Clement , Lind Brandon , Singh Pooja , Lu Mengmeng , Huang Kaichi , Whitlock Michael , Aitken Sally , Andrew Rose , Borevitz Justin , Bruhl Jeremy J. , Collins Timothy , Fischer Martin , Hodgins Kathryn , Holliday Jason , Ingvarsson Pär K , Janes Jasmine , Khandaker Momena , Koenig Daniel , Kreiner Julia , Kremer Antoine , Lascoux Martin , Leroy Thibault , Milesi Pascal , Murray Kevin , Rellstab Christian , Rieseberg Loren , Roux Fabrice , Stinchcombe John , Telford Ian R. H. , Todesco Marco , Wang Baosheng , Weigel Detlef , Willi Yvonne , Wright Stephen , Zhou Lecong
Published: November 2023

Closely-related species often use the same genes to adapt to similar environments1,2. However, we know little about why such genes possess increased adaptive potential, and whether this is conserved across deeper evolutionary time. Classic theory suggests a “cost of complexity”: adaptation should occur via genes affecting fewer traits to reduce deleterious side-effects (i.e. lower pleiotropy)3. Adaptation to climate presents a natural laboratory to test this theory, as even distantly-related species must contend with similar stresses4. Here, we re-analyse genomic data from thousands of individuals from 25 plant species to identify a suite of 108 genes enriched for signatures of repeated local adaptation to climate. This set includes many genes with well-known functions in abiotic stress response, identifying key genes that repeatedly drive adaptation in species as distantly-related as lodgepole pine and Arabidopsis (~ 300 My). Using gene co-expression networks to quantify each gene’s pleiotropy, we find enrichment for greater network centrality/interaction strength and broader expression across tissues (i.e. higher pleiotropy), contrary to the ”cost of complexity” theory. These genes may be particularly important in helping both wild and crop species cope with future climate change, representing a set of important candidates for future study.
Towards Increased Crop Yields with Molecular Heater Technology
Authors: Stavros Vasilios , Woolley Jack , Rodrigues Natercia , Toldo Josene , Rioux Benjamin , Groves Chris , Schrama Xandra , Alarcan Jimmy , Abiola Temitope , Mention Matthieu , Casal Mariana , Greenough Simon , Buma Wybren Jan , Ashfold Michael , Braeuning Albert , Munnik Teun , Franklin Keara , Allais Florent , Barbatti Mario
Published: November 2023

Food security is fast becoming one of the most pressing issues of the 21st century. With increasing climate instability, crop growth is now routinely affected by adverse weather patterns, which can result in reduced crop yields and even crop death. We are developing an environmentally responsible molecular heater to help boost plant growth, to expand the geographic regions suitable for such growth and to protect plants against cold weather. Our molecular heater, sinapic diacid (SDA, 2-(4-hydroxy-3,5-dimethoxybenzylidene)malonic acid), acts as a light-to-heat agent, converting solar energy into heat energy delivered to the plant. We have designed and optimised a sustainable chemical synthesis of SDA, characterised its photophysical properties using a combination of steady-state and ultrafast laser spectroscopy techniques and complementary computational studies, assessed its light-to-heat energy transfer performance to plant leaves in vivo, and explored key environmental and toxicological endpoints through in silico studies. Our spot-test results demonstrate that adsorbed SDA efficiently converts solar energy to heat energy, increasing the local plant leaf temperature by ~ 0.2 °C after sustained irradiation, with no alerts to environmental fate and human toxicity, and with impressive resilience to prolonged solar irradiation. Our studies reveal the hitherto untapped potential of molecular heaters such as SDA for helping to boost plant growth and protect plants against climate instability, with transformative potential towards food security.
The rural mortality penalty in U.S. hospital patients with COVID-19
Authors: Thompson Jeffrey A. , Mudaranthakam Dinesh Pal , Chollet-Hinton Lynn
Published: November 2023

Background
The COVID-19 pandemic brought greater focus to the rural mortality penalty in the U.S., which describes the greater mortality rate in rural compared to urban areas. Although it is understood that issues such as access to care, age structure of the population, and differences in behavior are likely drivers of the rural mortality penalty, it is critical to try and understand these factors to enable more effective public health policy.
Methods
We performed a cross-sectional analysis of a population of patients with COVID-19 who were admitted to hospitals in the United States between 3/1/2020 and 2/26/2023 to better understand factors leading to outcome disparities amongst groups that all had some level of access to hospital care, hypothesizing that deteriorated patient condition at admission likely explained some of the observed difference in mortality between rural and urban populations.
Results
Our results supported our hypothesis, showing that the rural mortality penalty persists in this population and that by multiple measures, rural patients were likely to be admitted in worse condition, had worse overall health, and were older.
Conclusions
Although the pandemic threw the rural mortality penalty into sharp relief, it is important to remember that it existed prior to the pandemic and will continue to exist until effective interventions are implemented. This study demonstrates the critical need to address the underlying factors that resulted in rural-dwelling patients being admitted to the hospital in worse condition than their urban-dwelling counterparts during the COVID-19 pandemic, which likely affected other healthcare outcomes as well.
Spatiotemporal heterogeneity in meteorological and hydrological drought patterns and propagations influenced by climatic variability, LULC change, and human regulations
Authors: Li Yunyun , Yi Huang , Li Yanchun , Zhang Hongxue , Fan Jingjing , Deng Qian
Published: November 2023

Quantifying meteorological-hydrological drought propagations and elucidating the underlying physical mechanisms and anthropogenic influences provides integral insights for strengthening drought prediction and adaptation. This study utilizes the Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI) and Standardized Streamflow Index (SSI) to characterize meteorological and hydrological droughts across different climate zones, respectively. Drought propagation times are quantified via the strongest correlation coefficient method. Potential influencing mechanisms are explored through modeling experiments comparing observed droughts under a climate-human activities scenario versus simulated droughts under a climate-land use/land cover (LULC) changes scenario using the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model from 1968–2010. The “simulated-observed” approach enables assessment of human regulation impacts on hydrological drought characteristics and propagations. The Yellow River Basin (YRB), divided into six subzones based on climate characteristics, is selected as the case study. The results reveal several key findings: (1) Meteorological droughts were extremely severe across most YRB during the 1990s, while the 2000s showed some mitigation primarily due to precipitation increases. (2) Hydrological droughts and propagation times from meteorology to hydrology demonstrated substantial spatiotemporal variability. In general, summer propagation times were shorter than other seasons. (3) Propagation times were shorter in arid regions with cropland or built-up land cover versus grassland and woodland, while the reverse held for humid regions. (4) Human regulations prolonged propagation times, likely due to reservoir regulations designed to overcome water deficits.