bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparing atmospheric changes over Texas, USA and Wuhan, China before and after the COVID-19 global shutdown using Sentinel-5P
Authors: Williams Jullian C.B.
Published: May 2024

The COVID-19 virus was first detected in Wuhan, China and its genesis was traced to infected bats, passed through an intermediate host to humans. COVID-19 or “Coronavirus” reached approximately 4 million confirmed cases in the United States by July 2020. The spread of this virus has affected both social and economic affairs on a global scale with more than 15 million confirmed cases worldwide in July 2020. The pandemic has proven a global public health and socio-economic crisis. In addition, the shelter-in-place orders provide an unprecedented opportunity for examining the resulting reduction in greenhouse gases and aerosols on the atmosphere. The Sentinel-5P satellite has shown distinct changes in atmospheric compounds over the COVID-19 epicenter in Wuhan. After Texas, U.S.A. established similar shelter-in-place orders to prevent the spread of the virus, the state’s industrial activity experienced an economic slowdown. This paper quantifies the changes in the atmosphere during the time of the COVID-19 slowdown over major cities in Texas and compares it to similar changes in Wuhan, China using satellite imagery.
Identification of Anastatica hierochuntica L. Methanolic Leaves Extract-Derived Metabolites Exhibiting Xanthine Oxidase Inhibitory Activities: In Vitro and in Silico Approaches
Authors: Rameshbabu Saranya , Alehaideb Zeyad , Alghamdi Sahar S , Suliman Rasha S , Almourfi Feras , Yacoob Syed Ali Mohamed , Venkataraman Anuradha , Messaoudi Safia , Matou-Nasri Sabine
Published: May 2024

There is growing interest in the discovery of novel xanthine oxidase inhibitors for gout prevention and treatment with fewer side effects. This study aimed to identify the xanthine oxidase (XO) inhibitory potential and drug-likeness of the metabolites present in the methanolic leaves extract of Anastatica (A.) hierochuntica L. using in vitro and in silico models. The extract-derived metabolites were identified by liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-QTOF-MS). Molecular docking predicted the XO inhibitory activity of the identified metabolites and validated the best scored in vitro XO inhibitory activities for experimental verification as well as predictions of their anticancer, pharmacokinetic and toxic properties, oral bioavailability, and endocrine disruption using SwissADMET, PASS, ProTox-II and Endocrine Disruptome web servers. A total of 12 metabolites with a majority of flavonoids were identified. Rutin, quercetin and luteolin flavonoids demonstrated the highest ranked docking score of -12.39, -11.15 and -10.43, respectively, while the half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values of these metabolites against XO activity were 11.35 µM, 11.1 µM and 21.58 µM, respectively. In addition, SwissADMET generated data related to physicochemical properties and drug-likeness of the metabolites. Similarly, PASS, ProTox-II and Endocrine Disruptome prediction models stated the safe and potential use of these natural compounds. However, in vivo studies are necessary to support the development of prominent and promising therapeutic use of A. hierochuntica methanolic leaves extract-derived metabolites as XO inhibitors for the prevention and treatment of hyperuricemic and gout patients. Furthermore, the predicted findings of the present study open a new paradigm for these extract-derived metabolites by revealing novel oncogenic targets for the potential treatment of human malignancies.
X-ray Microtomography Analysis of Integrated Crop-Livestock Production Impact on Soil Pore Architecture
Authors: Gaspareto José V. , Pires Luiz Fernando
Published: May 2024

Integrated crop-livestock production (ILP) is an interesting alternative for more sustainable soil use. However, more studies are needed to analyze soil pore properties under ILP at the micrometer scale. Thus, this study proposes a detailed analysis of soil pore architecture at the micrometer scale in three dimensions. For this purpose, samples of an Oxisol under ILP subjected to minimum tillage (MT) and no-tillage (NT) with ryegrass as cover crop (C) and silage (S) were investigated. The soil micromorphological properties of the soil were analyzed using X-ray microtomography. The MT(C) system showed the highest values of porosity (c. 20.4%), connectivity (c. 32.8×103), volume (c. 26%), and number of pores (c. 32%) in a rod-like shape. On the other hand, the MT(S), NT(C), and NT(S) systems showed higher tortuosities (c. 2.2, c. 2.0, and c. 2.1) and lower pore connectivities (c. 8.3×103, c. 6.9×103, and c. 6.2×103), especially in S use. Ellipsoidal and rod-shaped pores predominated over spheroidal and disc-shaped pores in all treatments. The results of this study show that the use of ryegrass as a cover crop improves soil physical properties, especially in MT. For S use, the type of soil management (MT or NT) did not show any differences.
Thermography in Pig Farming: A PLF Technique from Breeding to Slaughter
Authors: Redaelli Veronica , Zaninelli Mauro , Martino Pieranna , Luzi Fabio , Costa Leonardo Nanni
Published: May 2024

Infrared thermography is a contactless imaging technique, useful to measure surface temperature at distance which has been widely applied in animal production. The possible applications within the pig husbandry include sow heat detection, reduction of the incidence of neonatal mortality, recognition of febrile state caused by pathogens, study of metabolic efficiency, evaluation of stress caused by heat, by constraints, or by aggressive interaction and meat quality prediction. Even if this technique could be easily influenced by environmental factors, the continuous improvement in the procedures and the decrease in the cost of the equipment will allow in the next future new and more applications in swine farming.
Ciprofloxacin Removal via Acid-Modified Red Mud: Optimizing the Process, Analyzing the Adsorption Features, and Exploring the Underlying Mechanism
Authors: Shi Jingzhuan , Wang Wanqiong , Li Ziyi , Shi Yingjuan
Published: May 2024

RM (red mud) was acidified with sulphuric acid and the acidified ARM (acidified red mud) was utilized as an innovative adsorption material for treating antibiotic-contained wastewater. The adsorption conditions, kinetics, isotherms, thermodynamics, and mechanism of ARM for CIP (ciprofloxacin) were investigated. Characterization of the ARM involved techniques such as scanning electron microscopy(SEM), transmission electron microscope(TEM), brunauer- emmett-teller (BET), X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and NH3-TPD analysis. Adsorption studies were conducted employing response surface methodology (RSM) for experimental design. The results showed that ARM can absorb CIP effectively. The RSM optimal experiment indicated that the most significant model terms influencing adsorption capacity were solution pH, CIP initial concentration and ARM dosage, under which the predicted maximum adsorption capacity achieved 7.30 mg/g. The adsorption kinetics adhered to a pseudo-second-order model, while equilibrium data fitted the Langmuir-Freundlich isotherm, yielding maximum capacity values of 7.35 mg/g. The adsorption process occurred non-spontaneously and absorbed heat, evidenced by ΔG0 values between 2.06 and 0.87 kJ/mol, ΔS0 at 39.41 J/mol/K, and ΔH0 at 13.8 kJ/mol. Analysis using attenuated total reflection Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) indicated there existed complex reaction between Al-O in ARM and the ester group –COO in CIP. The C=O bond in CIP was likely to undergo a slight electrostatic interaction or be bound to the internal spherical surface of ARM. The findings indicate that ARM is a promising and efficient adsorbent for CIP removal from wastewater.
Nordic Exercise Effects on the Explosive and Absolute Strength of Lower Limbs in Different Sports Modalities
Authors: Potosí-Moya Verónica , Paredes-Gómez Ronnie , Calero-Morales Santiago
Published: May 2024

Abstract: Nordic exercises aim to improve physical abilities and prevent injuries; However, it is not clear in what type of sports modalities to use it, so this study arises from the interest of ana-lyzing its effect in different sports modalities. Objective: To analyze Nordic exercises effects on the lower limbs, and their relationship with the explosive and absolute strength inherent to demands of different sports modalities (football, athletics, basketball, sport climbing, cycling and taekwondo). Method: quasi-experimental research, identifying 122 athletes (18±3 years old) from: football (n=24), athletics/speed (n=20), sport climbing (n=20), basketball (n=24), taekwondo (n=14) and cycling (n=20); classified into a control group CG (n=57) and an experimental group EG (n=65). Results: dominant absolute strength of the initial (12.4±0.51) and final (14.5±0.98) EG, in greater proportion in basketball (P= < 0.05); explosive strength of the initial (42.4±1.2) and final (45.8±1.5) EG, with a significant difference in all modalities between before and after (p≤0.05), except in cy-cling and taekwondo; no major changes were found in the GC. Conclusion: Nordic exercises are recommended as part of training to improve levels of explosive strength with emphasis on the modalities of football, basketball, athletics/speed and sport climbing, being applicable to increase absolute strength in basketball.
Do Molecules Tunnel Through Nanoporous Graphene?
Authors: Barabanova Liudmyla , Buldum Alper
Published: May 2024

Molecular transport and quantum tunneling of H2 and H2O molecules through nanoporous gra-phene is studied using computational modeling and first principles density functional theory. It is demonstrated that molecules with sufficiently high kinetic energies can tunnel through the na-nopores. It is also demonstrated that molecules can be trapped in front of the nanopore or behind it. These investigations help us learn the behavior of molecules in and around nanopores of gra-phene. They also help us learn fundamentals of molecular tunneling. We believe, nanoporous gra-phene can play important roles for gas separation and nanofiltration.
Design, Development and Application of a Modular Electromagnetic Induction (EMI) Sensor for Near-Surface Geophysical Surveys
Authors: Wolf Luzian , Flores Orozco Adrian
Published: May 2024

Low-frequency electromagnetic induction (EMI) is a non-invasive geophysical method that is based on the induction of electromagnetic (EM) waves into the subsurface to quantify changes in electrical conductivity. In this study we present an open (design details and software are accessible) and modular system for the collection of EMI data. The instrument proposed allows to adjust the separations between the transmitter and up to four receiving antennas as well as the acquisition frequency (in the range between 3 and 50 kHz) to permit measurements with variable depth of investigation. The sensor provides access to raw data and the software described in this study allows control of the signal processing chain. The design specifications permit apparent conductivity measurements in the range of between 1 mS/m and 1000 mS/m, with a resolution of 1.0 mS/m and with a sampling rate of up to 10 samples per second. The sensor allows for a synchronous acquisition of a time stamp and a location stamp for each data sample. The sensor has a mass of less than 5 kg, is portable and suitable for 1-person operation, provides 4 hours of operation time on one battery charge, and provides sufficient rigidity for practical field operations.
Alkaloid-Based Isoxazolylureas: Synthesis and Effect in Combination With Anticancer Drugs on the c6 Rat Glioma Model
Authors: Mukusheva Gulim K. , Jalmakhanbetova Roza I. , Shaibek Altynay Zh. , Nurmaganbetova Manshuk S. , Zhasymbekova Aigerym R. , Nurkenov Оralgazy A. , Akishina Ekaterina A. , Kolesnik Irina A. , Dikusar Evgenij A. , Terpinskaya Tatiana I. , Kulchitsky Vladimir A. , Potkin Vladimir I. , Pushkarchuk Alexander L. , Lyakhov Dmitry A. , Michels Dominik L.
Published: May 2024

Alkaloid-based urea derivatives were produced with high yield through the reaction of anabasine and cytisine with isoxazolylphenylcarbamates in boiling benzene. Their antitumor ac-tivity in combination with the commonly used six anticancer drugs namely cyclophosphane, fluorouracil, etoposide, cysplatine, ribomustine with different mechanisms of action was investi-gated. Based on the quantum chemical calculations data and molecular docking, hypotheses have been put forward to explain their mutual influence when affecting on the С6 rat glioma model cells.
Joule Heating Effect of Buongiorno Model of Hybrid Nanofluid Flow With Homogeneous-Heterogeneous Reaction and Heat Generation/Absorption
Authors: Jawad Muhammad , Fu Zhuojia , Khan Waris
Published: May 2024

In this research work the study of Buongiorno Model Darcy Forchheimer flow of Hybrid nanofluid flow on isothermal permeable stretch/shrink sheet with homogeneous and heterogeneous reaction is investigated. The effects of MHD, thermal radiation, viscous dissipation, Joule heating, and heat generation/absorption are taken into account. Hybrid nanofluids can act as a medium for heterogeneous-homogeneous reactions. The nanoparticles dispersed in the fluid can influence reaction kinetics and species transport, potentially, altering reaction rates and pathways. The applications of HNF in reactions, both homogeneous and heterogeneous, lie in leveraging their enhanced thermal properties, catalytic potential, and improved mixing capabilities to optimize reaction efficiency and control reaction conditions. Similarity transformation is used to convert a set of PDEs into a set of ODEs. HAM is used for the solution of the obtained ODEs system. In a heterogeneous reaction, the concentration gradient is amplified; in a homogeneous reaction, the impact is opposite. Moreover, at higher compositions of HNPs, the concentration and velocity rise while the temperature falls. Furthermore, as the values of homogeneous and heterogeneous reactions increase, the concentration falls. It is reliable with the idea that a greater reaction rate lowers the diffusion rate. Nevertheless, these parameters do not affect temperature or velocity.
The Impact of Pelvic Incidence on Spinopelvic and Hip Alignment and Mobility in Asymptomatic Subjects
Authors: Kim Youngwoo , Vergari Claudio , Tokuyasu Hiroyuki , Shimizu Yu , Takemoto Mitsuru
Published: May 2024

Background:

The influence of pelvic incidence (PI) on spinopelvic and hip alignment and mobility has not been well investigated. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of PI on spinopelvic and hip alignment and mobility, including the pelvic-femoral angle (PFA) and motion (ΔPFA), in functional positions in a cohort of asymptomatic volunteers.

Methods:

This was a single-center, prospective, cross-sectional study. We included 136 healthy volunteers (69% female; mean age, 38 ± 11 years; mean body mass index, 22 ± 3 kg/m2) divided into 3 subgroups on the basis of their PI: PI < 45° (low PI), 45° ≤ PI ≤ 60° (medium PI), and PI > 60° (high PI). We made full-body lateral radiographs in free-standing, standing with extension, relaxed-seated, and flexed-seated positions. We measured the sacral slope (SS), lumbar lordosis (LL), and PFA. We calculated lumbar (∆LL), pelvic (∆SS), and hip (∆PFA) mobilities as the change between the standing (i.e., standing with or without extension) and sitting (i.e., relaxed-seated or flexed-seated) positions.

Results:

There were significant differences between some of the 3 subgroups with respect to the LL, SS, and PFA in each of the 4 positions. There were no significant differences in ΔLL, ΔSS, or ΔPFA between the 3 groups when moving from a standing to a sitting position. PI had an inverse linear correlation with PFAextension (R = −0.48; p < 0.0001), PFAstanding (R = −0.53; p < 0.0001), PFArelaxed-seated (R = −0.37; p < 0.0001), and PFAflexed-seated (R = −0.47; p < 0.0001). However, PI was not correlated with ΔPFAstanding/relaxed-seated (R = −0.062; p = 0.48) or ΔPFAextension/flexed-seated (R = −0.12; p = 0.18). Similarly, PI was not significantly correlated with ΔLL or ΔSS in either pair of positions.

Conclusions:

This study confirmed that spinopelvic and hip parameters in functional positions were affected by PI, whereas lumbar, pelvic, and hip mobilities did not depend on PI. These findings suggest that hip surgeons should consider the PI of the patient to determine the patient’s specific functional safe zones before and after total hip arthroplasty.

Level of Evidence:

Prognostic Level II. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Cognitive-Behavioral-Based Physical Therapy for Improving Recovery After a Traumatic Lower-Extremity Injury
Authors:   Major Extremity Trauma Research Consortium (METRC)
Published: May 2024

Background:

Lower-extremity injuries can result in severe impairment and substantial years lived with a disability. Persistent pain and psychological distress are risk factors for poor long-term outcomes and negatively influence the recovery process following a traumatic injury. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) interventions have the potential to address these risk factors and subsequently improve outcomes. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of a telephone-delivered cognitive-behavioral-based physical therapy (CBPT) program on physical function, pain, and general health at 12 months after hospital discharge following lower-extremity trauma. The CBPT program was hypothesized to improve outcomes compared with an education program.

Methods:

A multicenter, randomized controlled trial was conducted involving 325 patients who were 18 to 60 years of age and had at least 1 acute orthopaedic injury to the lower extremity or to the pelvis or acetabulum requiring operative fixation. Patients were recruited from 6 Level-I trauma centers and were screened and randomized to the CBPT program or the education program early after hospital discharge. The primary outcome was the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Physical Function (PF) scale. The secondary outcomes were objective physical function tests (4-square step test, timed stair ascent test, sit-to-stand test, and self-selected walking speed test), PROMIS Pain Intensity and Pain Interference, and the Veterans RAND 12-Item Health Survey. Treatment effects were calculated using targeted maximum likelihood estimation, a robust analytical approach appropriate for causal inference with longitudinal data.

Results:

The mean treatment effect on the 12-month baseline change in PROMIS PF was 0.94 (95% confidence interval, −0.68 to 2.64; p = 0.23). There were also no observed differences in secondary outcomes between the intervention group and the control group.

Conclusions:

The telephone-delivered CBPT did not appear to yield any benefits for patients with traumatic lower-extremity injuries in terms of physical function, pain intensity, pain interference, or general health. Improvements were observed in both groups, which questions the utility of telephone-delivered cognitive-behavioral strategies over educational programs.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level I. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
How to Improve the Quality of Euglycemic Glucose Clamp Tests in Long-Acting Insulin Studies
Authors: Yang Yi , Kuang Fu , Zhu XueYing , Li Li , Huang Yao , Liu Yang , Yu Xian
Published: May 2024

Background
The euglycemic clamp test stands as the gold standard for assessing the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of long-acting insulin. However, despite its widespread use, there remains a notable absence of an established gold standard for evaluating the test’s quality. Existing recommendations from regulatory agencies lack specific threshold values, particularly concerning long-acting insulin. This study aimed to determine the evaluation criteria for assessing the quality of the long-acting insulin euglycemic glucose clamp test and to improve the overall quality of this testing method.
Methods
Fifty-three healthy volunteers were administered a single dose of insulin degludec (0.4 IU/kg) and underwent a 24-h euglycemic clamp test. Blood samples were collected to evaluate the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of insulin degludec. Volunteers were separated into Group A (coefficient of variation in blood glucose [CVBG] ≤ 3.5%) and Group B (CVBG > 3.5%). The quality difference of the clamp test between the groups was assessed using various quality control indices. Volunteers were also categorized into Group C (C-peptide reduction rate < 50%) and Group D (C-peptide reduction rate ≥ 50%). The clamp test quality, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of Groups C and D were compared.
Results
Group A (2.95%) had significantly lower CVBG than Group B (4.15%), and Group D (63.22%) had significantly higher C-peptide reduction than Group C (35.23%). CVBG was positively correlated with other quality control indicators, such as the percentage of glucose excursion from the target range (GEFTR), duration of GEFTR, and area under the curve (AUC) of GEFTR. Groups C and D had CVBG < 3.5%; however, the area under the curve of GEFTR was significantly lower in Group C.
Conclusions
CVBG could be used as a standard for evaluating the quality of long-acting insulin euglycemic glucose clamp test, and the test quality was superior with a CVBG ≤ 3.5%. A C-peptide reduction ratio ≥ 50% indicated sufficient endogenous insulin inhibition; however, it cannot be inhibited when the CVBG level is low.
South African Eye Study: Establishing a normative database for retinal nerve fibre layer thickness in a black ethnicity paediatric population
Authors: Govender Nerissa , Baboolal Sandika
Published: May 2024

Background:
The retinal nerve fibre layer (RNFL) thickness in South African children of black ethnicity is not known. Current imaging devices do not include a paediatric normative database. There is also a lack of data on global majority ethnicities. This study used spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) to describe the average and quadrant RNFL thickness in children of black ethnicity.
Methods: A prospective cross-sectional hospital-based study was conducted at McCord Provincial Eye Hospital, Durban, South Africa, with a convenience-based sampling strategy. One normal eye from children between the ages of 5 and 18 were selected. An ocular examination included an autorefraction and an axial length measurement. The RNFL thickness was measured with the iVue-100 SD-OCT™.
Results:Seventy-three children were enrolled in this study based on power calculations. The mean (standard deviation) average RNFL thickness was 107.31um (8.1). The mean (standard deviation) inferior, superior, nasal, and temporal quadrant thickness were as follows: 135.1um (13.65), 135.6um (14.59), 83.2um (10.86), and 75.4um (9.03). No correlation was found between the average RNFL thickness and age, sex, spherical equivalent, and axial length with a p-value of 0.438, 0.106, 0.632, and 0.20 respectively.
Conclusion: This study described the normative values for retinal nerve fibre layer thickness using SD-OCT in South African children of black ethnicity between 5 and 18 years old and supports paediatric ethnic variation in the RNFL thickness. Establishing a normative database could help screen, diagnose and monitor glaucoma and other optic nerve pathologies in this paediatric ethnic group.
Microbial distribution in Mudbank regions off Alappuzha, South-west coast of India
Authors: Vijayan Jasna , Ammini Parvathi , Sri Pradeep Ram Angia , Nair Maheswari , Ngando Telesphore-Sime
Published: May 2024

The coastal waters of Kerala, in the South Eastern Arabian Sea (SEAS), are unique during the Southwest monsoon season due to the concurrent occurrence of two physical processes, the upwelling and Mudbanks. However, little is known about the viral ecology and activity in a system where upwelling and mudbanks coexist, though it is generally recognized that microbial assemblages play a vital role in the food web dynamics of marine systems, particularly in upwelling. Water samples were taken from three locations, M1, M2, and M3, off Alappuzha, on the southwest coast of India to examine the viral activity and distribution. An 18-week study in 2014 and a 16-week study in 2016 on a weekly/biweekly interval were carried out from April to September, which were categorized into three seasons April to May, as pre-monsoon, June to August as monsoon, and September period as late-monsoon. The dissolved oxygen levels showed the incursion of hypoxic waters in all the stations during the peak upwelling period. Upwelling signals were prominent in all the stations, but Mudbank and upwelling co-occurred at M2 alone during monsoon. The abundance of viruses ranged from 0.86 to 15.68×106 Viral like Particles (VLPs mL-1) and prokaryotic abundance ranged from 2.73-16.26×105 cells mL-1. Viral and prokaryotic abundance was significantly higher in the monsoon compared to pre and late-monsoon. Based on Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) results, the non-tailed viruses constituted the major (43%) proportion of the total viruses during this study region. However, the viral production rates and viral-mediated bacterial mortality were high in the pre-monsoon compared to the monsoon and late-monsoon periods. There was no obvious effect of Mudbanks on viral dynamics and the observed variations in virological and hydrological features were governed mainly by coastal upwelling.
Validity and reliability of the fall risk scale for older adults
Authors: Cossio-Bolaños Marco , Vidal-Espinoza Ruben , Caceres-Bahamondes Javiera , Campos Luis Felipe Castelli Correia , Alul Luis Urzua , Lázari Marcela Silva Ramos , Luarte-Rocha Cristian , Gomez-Campos Rossana
Published: May 2024

Introduction:
Falls in older adults are a common and serious threat to health and functional independence. It can cause psychological distress, inability to participate in activities of daily living, brain injury, fractures, and even death. The aim was to analyze the psychometric properties of the self-assessed fall risk scale (FRS) that measures the risk of falls in older adults in a central region of Chile, as well as to verify the concurrent validity against functional fitness tests.
Material and Methods
A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out in 222 older adults (OA) [34 males and 188 females] with an age range of 65 to 85 years. The 13-item self-perceived fall risk scale (FRS) was validated. Anthropometric measures (weight, height and waist circumference) were assessed. Five functional fitness tests were measured (right and left hand grip strength, biceps curl, up-and-go, agility and 6-minute walk test). Validation was performed by construct validation [(exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA)] and concurrent validity.
Results
The EFA revealed 4 factors in the FRS scale [1: fear of falling (variance 27.1%), 2: use of assistive devices (variance 10.6%), 3: loss of sensation (variance 9.3%), and 4: limited mobility (variance 8.3%)]. Factor loadings ranged from ~ 0.50 to 0.83 across the 4 components. The Kaiser-Meyer Olkin sample adequacy test (KMO) reflected adequate adequacy (KMO = 0.79, chi-square (X2) = 498.806, gl = 78, p = 0.00). The CFA showed a satisfactory final fit [chi-square (X2) = 126.748, Root mean squared error of approximation (RMSEA) = 0.042, Tucker-Lewis Index (TLI) = 0.946, Comparative fit index (CFI) = 0.935 y Normed fit index (NFI) = 0.90. The relationships between the FRS scale and functional fitness tests (right and left hand grip strength, biceps curl, up-and-go, agility and 6-minute walk test) ranged from low to moderate (r= -0.23 to 0.41).
Conclusion
The FRS scale showed acceptable validity and reliability in older adults in central region of Chile. It is expected that this scale will be useful for assessing fall risk in clinical and epidemiological settings in the aging Chilean population.
Entanglement detection with classical deep neural networks
Authors: Ureña Julio , Sojo Antonio , Bermejo-Vega Jara Juana , Manzano Daniel
Published: May 2024

In this study, we introduce an autonomous method for addressing the detection and classification of quantum entanglement, a core element of quantum mechanics that has yet to be fully understood. We employ a multi-layer perceptron to effectively identify entanglement in both twoand three-qubit systems. Our technique yields impressive detection results, achieving nearly perfect accuracy for two-qubit systems and over 90% accuracy for three-qubit systems. Additionally, our approach successfully categorizes three-qubit entangled states into distinct groups with a success rate of up to 77%. These findings indicate the potential for our method to be applied to larger systems, paving the way for advancements in quantum information processing applications.
Towards Clinical Subtypes in Schizophrenia: Integrating Cognitive, Functional, and Digital Phenotyping Assessments
Authors: Byun Andrew , Lane Erlend , Langholm Carsten , Flathers Matthew , hall mei hua , Torous John
Published: May 2024

Heterogeneity in the clinical presentation of schizophrenia impairs both proper and preventative care. The digital phenotyping data gathered from an international multi-site cohort study in people with schizophrenia (SZ) offers a novel opportunity to explore clinically meaningful subtypes in the context of clinical, functional, and cognitive data. Using a set of behavioral features derived from smartphone digital phenotyping, clinical assessment of symptoms including PANSS, clinical assessment of cognition with BACS, and clinical assessment of functioning with the social functioning assessments over the target period of twelve months, we found that the international cohort of 74 patients were categorized into three well-defined clusters that suggest clinically actionable targets from differential correlations in each. Namely, the identified clusters seemed to share phenotypic traits with the affective psychosis with more severe symptomatic presentation, a non-affective SZ with functional impairment, and a higher functioning non-affective SZ cluster. Partial correlation analysis further highlighted the emergence of different features per cluster, where anxiety symptoms were most notable for one group, whereas psychotic symptoms were most notable for the other two. Importantly, we showcase an analysis pipeline that transparently addresses challenges of missing data and potential skew so that this research methodology can be applied to future prospective validation studies. This study hopes to build a foundation for future digital phenotyping clustering work by scaling up to new sites, and populations to uncover the nature and extent of heterogeneity in schizophrenia.
Transcription factor ONECUT3 regulates HDAC6/HIF-1α activity to promote the Warburg effect and tumor growth in colorectal cancer
Authors: Xue Junli , Xue Junli , Wang Hao , Li Weihan , He Kexin , Zhang Shan , Jiang Shu-Heng , Li Rongkun Li Rongkun
Published: May 2024

The Warburg effect, also known as aerobic glycolysis, plays a crucial role in the onset and progression of colorectal cancer, although its mechanism remains unclear. Bioinformatics analysis of public databases and verification of clinical specimens revealed that the transcription factor ONECUT3 is a key regulator related to the Warburg effect in colorectal cancer. Functionally, genetic silencing of ONECUT3 reverses the Warburg effect and blunts tumor growth. Importantly, ONECUT3 promotes tumor growth in a glycolysis-dependent manner. Mechanistically, ONECUT3 does not directly alter the expression of hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α), but rather inhibits the acetylation of HIF-1α via histone deacetylase 6 (HDAC6). This inhibition leads to increased transcriptional activity of HIF-1α, ultimately upregulating various glycolysis-related genes downstream of HIF-1α, thereby promoting the Warburg effect in colorectal cancer and facilitating tumor growth. Our study provides evidence for the mechanism of the Warburg effect in colorectal cancer, suggesting that ONECUT3 could be a potential new target for colorectal cancer treatment.
Evaluation of F2 Tomato Hybrids for Yield and Related Traits in Jima Geneti District, Western Ethiopia
Authors: Soresa Desalegn Negasa
Published: May 2024

Tomatoes are a vegetable crop grown by smallholder farmers in the Horro Guduru region, which is in the mid-latitude. Therefore, it is crucial to create high-yielding and resistant types of tomatoes. As a result, there has been little work done to tackle the issue and little knowledge on tomato erraticism. As a result, the experiment was created to assess tomato hybrids that were F2 segregated in order to measure variability, character association, and path coefficient analysis. In Jima Genet area, Western Ethiopia, in 2022 GC, an experiment involving 28 F2 tomato hybrids in RCBD with three replications was conducted. Significant variations were found between the F2 hybrids for each attribute according to analysis of variance. For the variables days to first flowering (pcv=8.81, gcv=8.12), fruit length (pcv=16.14, gcv=14.84), and fruit diameter (pcv=17.10, gcv=14.92), very minimal variations were found between the phenotypic coefficients of variation (PCV) and genotypic coefficients of variation (GCV). With the exception of flowers per cluster (47.83%), all yield-contributing traits showed high heritability (>50%). Fruit clusters per plant (105.11), fruits per plant (103.43), branches per plant (34.49), fruits per cluster (47.43), individual fruit weight (77.73), and fruit output per plant (108.25) all showed strong heritability linked to high genetic progress. To increase tomato fruit output, selection for such features may be useful. Plant heights at first blooming, flowers per plant, fruits per cluster, fruit clusters per plant, and fruits per plant with fruit output per plant were found to be significantly positively correlated both genotypically and phenotypically. Individual fruits per plant (0.674) and fruits per plant as a whole (1.096) had the most beneficial direct effects on fruit output per plant. To lessen the indirect influence of the other qualities during the creation of a high-yielding tomato variety, direct selection may be carried out with these traits serving as the primary selection criteria.
Genetic structure of invasive ctenophore Mnemiopsis leidyi populations in temperate northern European waters supports the southern North Sea overwintering refuge
Authors: Lüskow Florian , Knudsen Steen Wilhelm
Published: May 2024

The ctenophore Mnemiopsis leidyi is native to the Atlantic coasts of the Americas and is considered a threat to biodiversity and food webs in introduced ecosystems. Most of these invasive ctenophores perish during the cold winter in temperate northern European waters (North and Baltic Seas), but spread again every summer/autumn. We collected ctenophores from the southern North Sea, inner Danish waters, and western Baltic Sea in 2017 and 2018, and sequenced genomic DNA obtained from tissue samples. We obtained sequences of internal transcribed spacer (ITS) 1 and 2, and the intervening 5.8S fragment and partial fragments of the flanking 18S rRNA and 28S rRNA genes from nuclear DNA (nDNA). These sequences were compared with ones archived in databases from specimens in its native (Northwest Atlantic) and other invaded habitats (Caspian Sea, Mediterranean Sea, central-western Atlantic Ocean). The comparison revealed no significant difference in genetic internal variation among temperate northern European sampling locations but showed variation when compared with native and other invaded habitats. No significant genetic difference was identified between specimens collected in the temperate northern European waters in the two consecutive years 2017 and 2018. The very low interregional and interannual genetic variations in M. leidyi specimens in the Northeast Atlantic indicate that its distribution in temperate northern European waters can be regarded as one single panmictic population and that the annual dispersal from the southeastern North Sea into the western Baltic Sea can be traced back to the same population, which most likely originates every spring from the Dutch Wadden Sea and the English Channel.
Efficient Atrazine Degradation through ZnFe2O4-Catalyzed Peroxymonosulphate Activation
Authors: Gao Junyi , zhao xuying , Li Caibin , Luo Zhenbao , long Zhang , Xiao Zhipeng , Mu Tingting , Liu Furong , Gao Ruikang , Zhang Jiguang , Sun Xiwen
Published: May 2024

Atrazine (ATZ) is widely used as an herbicide in agricultural production. However, its extensive application results in contaminated residues that can adversely affect ecosystems because rainwater washes them into and contaminates water bodies. Therefore, there is a pressing need to remove ATZ from the aquatic environment. Using transition metals as catalysts for the persulfate degradation of organic pollutants has received much attention because of their strong ability to oxidize pollutants, including ATZs, and their selectivity for these pollutants. A novel technique for ATZ removal using a catalyst (ZnFe2O4) to activate peroxymonosulfate (PMS) was developed in this study . The ZnFe2O4 catalyst was prepared through co-precipitation, which involves the doping of zinc in iron-based materials. And this process accelerated the redox cycle, which energized the PMS and promoted the generation of free radicals. Electron paramagnetic resonance analysis revealed that ZnFe2O4 activates PMS and generates SO4•-, HO•, O2•-, and 1O2 to eliminate ATZ. In this study, a new approach is proposed for the development of efficient heterogeneous catalysts capable of activating PMS and eliminating the ATZ. Moreover, The ATZ degradation pathway was proposed based on the products identified by UPLC-MS. The results highlighted the efficiency of the as-prepared ZnFe2O4 catalyst in ATZ removal and its excellent performance. Given its environmentally friendly and efficient performance, The ZnFe2O4 catalyst has significant potential implications for agricultural environmental remediation.
GIS and Remote Sensing Based Assessment of West Rapti River Channel Migration in Nepal
Authors: Gharti Sandesh , Silwal Ramesh , Poudel Prabin , Mishra Om , Dhungana Dipendra
Published: May 2024

This study uses geospatial technique to analyze the spatio-temporal changes of West Rapti River Channel from 1990 to 2023, to assess their impact in Deukhuri Valley. Using freely available Landsat satellite imagery we extracted water surface features through the Normalized Difference Water Index (NDWI) and generated 27 cross-sections (CS) to track channel shift. The results indicated the significant shifts, notably 1426.97 m northeast shift in CS-23 and 718.55 m south shift in CS-25 attributed to sand deposition during flooding. Nearly no shifting impact was observed from CS-12 to CS-17 showing embankment and mitigation efforts being effective within this range. Study shows river is naturally multi-channeled and exhibits braided planform with sinuosity index values ranging from 1.02 to 1.38, indicating highly braided during 2010 and 2015. The river channel was found to be driven by a high sediment deposit of about 15.35 Sq. km across the 53 km range. These results are crucial for formulating integrated river basin management plans in the West Rapti River basin laying foundation for future research to explore sustainable management practices in the future.
Balancing personal and social identities for the care of priority populations in a paediatric hospital setting: A qualitative study
Authors: Nobilo Ashlie , Wallace Seaneen , Kearns Anna , Majidi Safa , Beek Anna van , Tissue Avalon , Shipley Kiya , Khan Jahidur Rahman , Lingam Raghu , Zwi Karen , Hodgins Michael
Published: May 2024

Background
The Providing Enhanced Access to Child Health Services (PEACH) initiative at the Sydney Children's Hospitals Network (SCHN) aims to reduce inequity in healthcare access and outcomes for priority population children and young people (including Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander, culturally and linguistically diverse, from refugee or asylum seeker backgrounds, living in out-of-home care or recipients of the National Disability Insurance Scheme). Central to PEACH is active consumer engagement through co-design, recognising the importance of understanding consumers’ experiences to facilitate enhanced healthcare provision. This qualitative study explored the experiences of priority population consumers at SCHN before the implementation of PEACH initiatives, with the aim of identifying strengths, limitations, and recommendations for enhancing healthcare services tailored to priority population needs.
Methods
Guided by an experience-based co-design methodology, 28 qualitative semi-structured interviews were carried out with a total of 38 participants from priority population group(s) who had accessed care at SCHN. The data were analysed via inductive thematic analysis.
Results
The findings are presented through the lens of the concept of identity, delineated into personal and social identity. Personal identity is related to person before problem and demography, while social identity is linked to cultural responsiveness. Consumers emphasised both the significance of social identities in health service design, and the importance of an individualised approach that recognises and respects their unique personal identities within the broader social context.
Conclusions
This research advocates for a person-centred approach to healthcare delivery that recognises and responds to the dynamic interconnected relationship between personal and social identities.
Numerical analysis on three-dimensionality of supersonic flow over open cavities
Authors: Seth Soham
Published: May 2024

This study utilizes commercially available Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) software to analyze how variations in the length-to-width (L/W) ratio impact open cavity flow characteristics under supersonic conditions (Mach number of 1.5). By maintaining a constant length-to-depth (L/D) ratio, and varying cavity width, the focus of this study lies on understanding how changes in cavity geometry influence flow patterns. Key parameters such as pressure coefficients, velocity distributions, streamlines, and vortices are investigated to gain insights into the three-dimensional nature of flow within the cavities. By varying width, while keeping cavity length and depth constant, the study aims to provide a deeper understanding of flow phenomena within such cavities. The chosen Mach number ensures consistency across simulations, facilitating a focused exploration of the effects of cavity geometry on flow features.
Cohort retention in a pandemic response study: Lessons from the SARS-Cov-2 Immunity & Reinfection Evaluation (SIREN) study
Authors: Howells Anna , Munro Katie , Foulkes Sarah , Kamal Atiya , Haywood Jack , Russell Sophie , Sparkes Dominic , Aquino Erika , Evans Jennie , Weston Dale , Hopkins Susan , Islam Jasmin , Hall Victoria
Published: May 2024

Background
The SIREN Study is a healthcare worker cohort study aiming to determine COVID-19 incidence, duration of immunity and vaccine effectiveness across 135 NHS organisations in four UK nations. Conducting an intensive prospective cohort study during a pandemic was challenging. We designed an evolving retention programme, utilising participant engagement tools underpinned by our Participant Involvement Panel (PIP) and here we evaluate cohort retention over time and identify learnings.
Methods
A mixed method evaluation of cohort retention in 12 and 24-month follow-up. We described cohort retention by demographics and site, using odds ratios from logistic regression. Withdrawal reasons were collected by survey. We collected participant feedback via cross-sectional online survey utilising a behavioural science approach. We conducted focus groups with site teams and conducted thematic analysis exploring cohort retention challenges and facilitators.
Results
37,275 (84.7%) participants completed 12-months of follow-up. Of 14,772 participants extending their follow-up to 24 months, 12,635 (85.5%) completed this. Retention increased with age in the 12 (55–64 years vs < 25 years OR = 2.50; 95% CI: 2.19–2.85) and 24-month (> 65 years vs < 25 years OR = 2.92; 95% CI: 1.78–4.88) cohorts. Retention was highest in the Asian and Black compared to White ethnic groups in the 12 (OR = 1.38; 95% CI: 1.23–1.56; p < 0.001, and OR = 1.64; 95% CI: 1.30–2.08) and 24-month (OR = 1.78; 95% CI: 1.42–2.25; p < 0.001, and OR = 2.12; 95% CI: 1.41–3.35) cohort. Among participants withdrawing, the median time in follow-up at withdrawal was 7 months (IQR: 4–10 months) within the 12-month cohort and 19 months within the 24-month cohort (IQR: 16–22 months). The top three reasons for participant withdrawal were workload, leaving site employment and medical reasons. Themes identified from focus-groups included: the need to monitor and understand participant motivation over time, the necessity of inclusive and comprehensive communication, the importance of acknowledging participant contributions, building collaboration with local research teams, and investing in the research team skillset.
Conclusion
Participant retention in the SIREN study remained high over 24-months of intensive follow-up, demonstrating that large-cohort studies are feasible as a pandemic research tool. Insights into facilitators and challenges provide learning for future studies.
The impact of Heavy dust pollution reduces biodiversity by altering the metabolism and biochemical characteristics of Fagonia indica
Authors: Sultan Muhammad Asim , Ahmad Iftikhar , Abbas Toqeer , Shah Anis Ali , Elansary Hosam O. , Sridh Shankarappa
Published: May 2024

Present study was conducted to explore the population dynamics in vegetation of Kirana Hills, Sargodha growing under extreme dust pollution of stone crushing industry. Through extensive survey study sites were selected and floristic composition of the area was also completed. Heavy metal analysis of the dust revealed that all heavy metals were higher at extreme dust sites particularly in winter. The soil at each site and at each season varies based on the soil analysis. Vegetation data was collected by using quadrate method. Density, frequency, coverage and importance value of vegetation was significantly decreased at extreme dust sites specifically in winter. Fagonia indica was collected throughout the study sites and evaluated for morpho-anatomical, biochemical, and physiological characteristics. Metabolic and morpho-anatomical features of all plants were severely affected at extreme dust sites, however high metabolic rate, high sclerification in leaf, root and stem along with presence of large aerenchyma cells in roots were also noticed at extreme dust sites, and these modifications help to survive in such harsh dust polluted environment. In biochemical parameters reactive oxygen species (H2O2) production was increased at extreme dust sites, furthermore activity of enzymatic antioxidants, non-enzymatic antioxidants and osmoprotectant were increased at extreme dust sites in F. indica. Metabolic rate and concentration of heavy metals in selected ecotype also increased at extreme dust sites.