bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of CWENO Finite-Volume Interface Capturing Schemes for Modeling Cavitation Induced by an Underwater Explosion
Authors: Adebayo Ebenezer Mayowa , Tsoutsanis Panagiotis , Jenkins Karl W
Published: December 2023

Cavitation resulting from underwater explosions in compressible multiphase or multicomp-onent flows presents significant challenges due to the dynamic nature of shock-cavitation-structure interactions, as well as the complex and discontinuous nature of the involved interfaces. Achieving accurate resolution of interfaces between different phases or components, in the presence of shocks, cavitating regions, and structural interactions, is crucial for modeling such problems. Furthermore, pressure convergence in simulations involving shock-cavitation-structure interactions requires accurate algorithms. In this research paper, we employ the diffuse interface method, also known as the interface capturing scheme, to investigate cavitation in various underwater explosion test cases near different surfaces; free surface and a rigid surface. The simulations are conducted using the Unstructured Compressible Navier-Stokes (UCNS3D) finite volume framework employing central-weighted essentially non-oscillatory (CWENO) reconstruction schemes, utilising the five-equation diffuse interface family of methods. Quantitative comparisons are made between the performance of both models. Additionally, we examine the effects of cavitation as a secondary loading source on structures, and evaluate the ability of the CWENO schemes to accurately capture and resolve material interfaces between fluids with minimal numerical dissipation or smearing. The results are compared with existing high-order methods and experimental data, where possible, to demonstrate the robustness of the CWENO schemes in simulating cavitation bubble dynamics, as well as their limitations within the current implementation of interface capturing.
Adaptive Event-based Dynamic Output Feedback Control for Unmanned Marine Vehicle Systems Under DoS Attack
Authors: Wang Chunping , Xie Wendong , Gao Jinfeng , Wu Ping , Liu Peter Xiaoping
Published: December 2023

An event-based dynamic output feedback control (DOFC) strategy for unmanned marine vehicle (UMV) systems is concerned. The whole UMV systems are composed of an UMV closed-loop system, a land-based control unit and the communication network. To increase the effectiveness of data transmission in the network channel and better enable the control unit against attack, an adaptive event-triggered mechanism (AETM) is applied. Moreover, a quantizer is installed between the sampler and the control unit. The quantizer further reduces the communication burden. The occurrence of aperiodic denial-of-service (DoS) attack is considered in the channel from the control unit to the UMV system. Sufficient criterion for ensuring global exponential stability of system with an expected H∞ disturbance attenuation index is obtained. Co-design of the dynamic output feedback controller and the AETM is derived. The effectiveness of the proposed approach is verified in the given illustrative simulation. The simulation results indicate that the reduction percentages of yaw angle amplitudes and yaw velocity accumulative error of the UMV system with the control strategy proposed in this paper are 43.2%and 45.9%, respectively, which are 0.3% and 5.8% improvement in both metrics compared to the previously published work.
Energy Budget Characterisation of the Optimal Disturbance in Stratified Shear Flow
Authors: Godwin Larry E. , Trevelyan Philip M.J. , Akinaga Takeshi , Generalis Sotirios
Published: December 2023

Stratified Taylor Couette Flow (STCF) undergoes transient growth. Recent studies have shown that there exists transient amplification in the linear regime of counter-rotating STCF. It is reported that as Gr increases, the maximum amplification factor ($G_0$) initially decays before it eventually starts growing after reaching a certain critical value Gr$_{c}$. Assuming other parameters of the model are kept constant, the value Gr$_{c}$ changes with respect to different speed ratios of the cylinders. The observed decay/growth pattern of $G_0$ is attributed to the interplay between the induced shear and buoyancy. In this study, the mechanism that triggers this observed pattern is investigated. The kinetic budget of the optimal transient perturbation is analysed numerically to simulate the interaction of the shear production (SP), buoyancy production (BP) and other energy components that contributes to the total optimal transient kinetic energy. These contributions affect the total energy by influencing the perturbation to extract kinetic energy (KE) from the mean flow. The decay of $G_0$ resulted from the positive amplification of both BP and SP, while the growth is attributed to the negative and positive amplification of BP and SP, respectively. The optimal SP is positively amplified, implying that there is the possibility of constant linear growth. These findings agree with the linear growth rate for increasing values of Gr.
Improved E-learning Based Recommender Systems: A Survey
Authors: Maryam Oswa , Ashraf Humaira , Jhanjhi Noor
Published: December 2023

Online learning is gaining massive popularity with time. The e-learning platforms operate differently from traditional educational institutions and hence need different strategy for course recommendations. This survey aims to cover the major emerging research areas in e-learning recommender systems. Our study covers different areas of research including graph-based methodologies, ITS, query optimization, content-based, and collaborative filtering, big data, and association rules mining. This survey aimed to explore all major emerging directions of recommender systems in education. This study analyzed existing literature in all of the areas mentioned before and performed objective-based analysis. A brief performance analysis was also done for the researches where the values were comparable. Limitations of existing researches were also identified and studied to shed some light on future directions.
Why Is Surgery Still Done after Concurrent Chemo-Radiotherapy in Locally Advanced Cervical Cancer in Romania?
Authors: Voinea Silviu Cristian , Bordea Cristian Ioan , Chitoran Elena , Rotaru Vlad , Andrei Razvan Ioan , Ionescu Sinziana-Octavia , Luca Dan , Savu Nicolae Mircea , Capsa Cristina Mirela , Alecu Mihnea , Simion Laurentiu
Published: December 2023

The incidence and mortality of cervical cancer are high in Romania compared to other European countries, particularly for locally advanced cervical cancer cases, which are predominant at the time of diagnosis. Widely accepted therapeutic guidelines indicate that the treatment for locally advanced cervical cancer consists of concurrent chemoradiotherapy (total dose 85-90Gy at point A), with surgery not being necessary as it does not lead to improved survival and results in significant additional morbidity. In Romania, the treatment for locally advanced cervical cancer differs, involving lower-dose chemotherapy (total dose 60-65Gy at point A), followed by surgery which, under these circumstances, ensures better local control. In this regard, we attempted to evaluate the role and necessity of surgery in Romania, considering that in our study, residual lesions were found in 55.84% of cases on resected specimens, especially in cases with unfavorable histology (adenocarcinoma and adenosquamous carcinoma). This type of surgery was associated with significant morbidity (28.22%) in our study. The recurrence rate was 24.21% for operated patients compared to 62% for non-operated patients receiving suboptimal concurrent chemotherapy alone. In conclusion, In Romania, surgery will continue to play a predominant role until radiotherapy achieves the desired effectiveness for local control.
Personality Traits, Machiavellianism Intelligence, Irrational Beliefs among Chronically Ill Older People and COVID-19 Outbreak
Authors: Shahbaz Kanwal , Lim David , Shahbaz Ayesha
Published: December 2023

Irrational belief is a product of complex personality traits and Machiavellianism Intelligence. The present study is conducted to trace the significance of predictive nature of personality characteristics and Machiavellianism Intelligence (Mach Intelligence) on irrational beliefs among chronically ill older people. The research method is cross-sectional with correlational design, purposive sampling with a total of 200 chronically ill older people aged between 40–60 years with disease type such as Systemic lupus erythematosus, Complicated Diabetes, Glomerulonephritis and Chronic Heart Failure. The analysis revealed that personality characteristics and irrational belief subscales such as worrying, rigidity, problem avoidance and Mach Intelligence are significantly positively correlated; however, Emotional irresponsibility has significant negative correlation with personality characteristics and Mach Intelligence. Gender differences revealed that males are high on all the subscales of personality characteristics, irrational beliefs (except emotional irresponsibility) and Mach Intelligence as com-pared to female chronically ill older people. Predictive analysis also revealed that overall personality characteristics explained a total of 67% variance in irrational beliefs. Moreover, Mach Intelligence predicts irrational beliefs. Future health related recommendations should be planned accordingly.
Lidar Optical and Microphysical Characterization of Tropospheric and Stratospheric Fire Smoke Layers Due to Canadian Wildfires Passing over Naples (Italy)
Authors: Damiano Riccardo , Amoruso Salvatore , Sannino Alessia , Boselli Antonella
Published: December 2023

In Summer 2017, huge wildfires in the British Columbia region (Canada) led to the injection of a remarkably high concentration of biomass burning aerosol in the atmosphere. These aerosol masses reached the city of Naples, Italy, since the end of August 2017, where they were characterized by means of a multiwavelength lidar and a sun-sky-lunar photometer. Here we report on the optical and microphysical properties of this aerosol in an intriguing condition, occurring on 4th September 2017, which is characterized by an interesting multi-layered vertical distribution of the aerosol. The Lidar profiles highlighted the presence of four aerosol layers, with two located in the lower troposphere and other two at stratospheric altitudes. A rather thorough characterization of the biomass burning aerosol was carried out. The aerosol depolarization ratio showed an increasing dependence on the altitude with averaged values of 2-4% for the tropospheric layers, which are indicative of almost spherical smoke particles, and larger values in the stratospheric layers, suggestive of aspheric particles. Lidar-derived size distributions were retrieved for the first three aerosol layers, highlighting a higher particle concentration in the fine mode fraction for the layers observed at higher altitude. A dominance of fine particles in the atmosphere (Fine Mode Fraction > 0.8) with low absorption properties (absorption AOD < 0.0025 and SSA > 0.97) was also observed over the whole atmospheric column by sun-photometer data. The space-resolved results provided by the lidar data are consistent with the columnar features retrieved by the AERONET sun-photometer, thus evidencing the reliability and capability of lidar characterization of atmospheric aerosol in a very interesting condition of multiple aerosol layers originating from Canadian fires overpassing the observation station.
Improving Students Learning Outcomes and Digital Literacy on Acid-Base Titration Using Titration Screen Experiment Media
Authors: Mulyani Sri , Nurdina Rakhma Amalia , Mahardiani Lina
Published: December 2023

This study aims to enhance students' digital literacy and learning outcomes in acid-base titration through Titration Screen Experiment Media. The research used a quasi-experimental method with two class samples, including the experimental class utilizing Titration Screen Experiment Media and the control class without it. Data were collected through digital literacy questionnaires and post-test questions evaluating students’ cognitive domain knowledge in acid-base titration. The Multivariate Analysis of Variance (MANOVA) test was used to analyze the data. The results demonstrated that the experimental class, which utilized the Titration Screen Experiment Media, exhibited higher digital literacy levels than the control class and improved learning outcomes in acid-base titration. The average digital literacy score in the experimental class was 56.50, whereas the control class scored 41.70. The experimental class indicated students with intermediate cognitive domain learning outcomes around 84.00, while the control class scored 76.67. These findings suggest that implementing the Titration Screen Experiment Media enhances digital literacy and positively impacts students’ learning outcomes in acid-base titration. Educators can effectively improve students' digital literacy skills by integrating this innovative media into teaching and learning while encouraging their academic achievements in chemistry learning. The research emphasizes the significance of digital literacy in modern education. The practical implication lies in the roles of educators in preparing students’ chemistry digital literacy.
ON HERITAGE VALUE SYSTEMS AND DETERMINING THE SIGNIFICANCE OF HISTORICAL VALUES IN AN ARCHITECTURAL OBJECT
Authors:   Zachodniopomorski Uniwersytet Technologiczny w Szczecinie, Poland Wydział Architektury Katedra Projektowania Architektonicznego, Barełkowski Robert K.
Published: December 2023

The work analyzes the value systems of historical heritage in the context of Polish legislation, and also builds a background for assessing the historical value of architectural monuments. The presented investigations extend the discussion of the original HeV method, used in historic value assessment procedures. The specificity of historical values indicates the validity of starting with historical analyses, building a narrative, and then searching for ways to discover the extent to which the architectural substance perpetuates and transmits this narrative, as well as what specific values are associated with it according to the selected system.
EVOLUTION OF FUNCTIONAL AND STRUCTURAL ARRANGEMENTS OF OFFICE HIGH-RISE BUILDINGS IN THE CONTEXT OF BIOPHILIC SOLUTIONS IN THE EARLY 21ST CENTURY
Authors:   West Pomeranian University of Technology in Szczecin, Poland Faculty of Architecture Katedra Architektury Współczesnej, Teorii i Metodologii Projektowania, Bizio Krzysztof
Published: December 2023

The article analyzes the functional and structural solutions of office high-rise and tall buildings developed in the early 21st century, incorporating biophilic design principles. The study identifies two primary trends in the way their functional layouts are designed. The analysis of the evolution of functional and structural changes is presented in the context of contemporary architecture development, with a specific reference to the modernism era. The conclusions drawn from the research highlight biophilic ideas as a crucial element in sustainable architectural design strategies.
THE METAPHOR: A LITERARY TOOL LENT TO THE ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN. THEORETICAL REFERENCES, RESEARCH METHOD AND PRACTICAL EXPERIENCE IN TEACHING ACTIVITY
Authors:   Politecnico di Milano Department of Architecture And Urban Studies, Italy, Lucchini Marco
Published: December 2023

The design process in Architectural Design Studio’s first classes for students is often based on images that are erroneously used as references by copying some formal choices. In the most general sense, this issue is related to a gap between architectural culture and society, as architecture is considered a virtual and consumable object. Those problems could be faced with an old but still effective tool that is the metaphor. Architecture is mainly known by images, and each image has a visible and an invisible part; the latter concerns the culture that underlies it. The paper assumes the metaphor is a design tool that can be helpful in the initial stages of the design process as it allows anyone to quickly connect images, ideas, and experiences, getting deeper into the invisible part of images. Since the metaphor is mainly a linguistic agent, most of the studies concern the use of the metaphor in the field of theoretical criticism and for reviewing other projects. The paper proposes to integrate this approach by investigating the metaphor to support the transfer of shapes and figures between different architectures. Furthermore, the proposed process foresees a permanent part based on the type of dynamic and more mobile part where metaphorical thinking finds space. Therefore, two types of use of the metaphor are put forward: the first interprets existing buildings by recognising both linguistic metaphors used by the critics and those crystallized in the architectural form; the second instead stimulates students to use visual metaphors in determining the shape and volume of the project.
CONTEMPORARY SIGNIFICANCE OF THE SPA PARK BASED ON THE STUDY OF THE RECOGNITION OF THE HEALTH RESORT SPACE (THE CASE OF POŁCZYN-ZDRÓJ, POLAND)
Authors:   West Pomeranian University of Technology in Szczecin, Poland Faculty of Architecture, Bal Wojciech , Czałczyńska-Podolska Magdalena ,   West Pomeranian University of Technology in Szczecin, Poland Faculty of Architecture
Published: December 2023

The aim of the study was to analyze the recognition of the spa area and assess the contemporary significance of the Spa Park in Połczyn-Zdrój. The results indicate the significant socio-spatial importance of the park and the existence of certain threats to its significance. The opportunities to improve its significance and protect the identity were developed. The conclusions can be applied to many historical spa parks.
ACCESS ISOCHRONY TO PRIMARY SCHOOL AS A KEY DETERMINANT IN SHAPING HUMANE SPACE OF MULTI-FAMILY HOUSING COMPLEX
Authors:   Zachodniopomorski Uniwersytet Technologiczny w Szczecinie, Poland Wydział Architektury Katedra Mieszkalnictwa i Podstaw Techniczno-Ekologicznych Architektury, Wojtkun Grzegorz
Published: December 2023

This article presents a research analysis of an exemplary multi-family housing area from the perspective of its residents. Using a selected Polish housing complex as a case study, an attempt is made to refine the concept of optimal access isochrony as a criterion in the design of residential areas in the future. Simultaneously, the historical background related to the emergence of the concept of the neighborhood unit as an architectural paradigm is outlined.
PROTECTION OF THE CULTURAL LANDSCAPE AND ARCHITECTURAL FORM OF THE WISNICKO-LIPNICKI LANDSCAPE PARK
Authors:   Faculty of Architecture, Cracow Univesity of Technology. Poland, Hrehorowicz-Gaber Hanna , Ciepiela Agnieszka ,   Faculty of Architecture, Cracow Univesity of Technology. Poland, Hrehorowicz-Nowak Alicja ,   Faculty of Architecture, Cracow Univesity of Technology. Poland
Published: December 2023

A harmoniously shaped cultural landscape provides the basis for protecting the identity of a place. Cataloging spatial values and development forms is an element of the spatial policy of the municipalities of the Wiśnicz foothills and the statutory protection activities of the Complex of Landscape Parks of the Małopolska Voivodeship. The method and results of the research presented in this article were developed for the purpose of identifying architectural forms and patterns for the Wiśnicko-Lipnicki Landscape Park. It takes into account the protection of traditional architectural elements in relation to basic types of development and contains proposals for solutions referring to the local building tradition, harmonizing with the landscape, promoting landscape-friendly forms. It is also a guideline for newly created strategies and planning documents in municipalities.
DUBAI EXPO 2020 – THE WORLD EXHIBITION IN THE CONTEXT OF ACCESSIBILITY FOR PEOPLE WITH SPECIAL NEEDS
Authors:   Zachodniopomorski Uniwersytet Technologiczny w Szczecinie, Poland Wydział Architektury, Katedra Urbanistyki i Planowania Przestrzennego, Zespół Symulatorium Dostępności, Zwoliński Adam
Published: December 2023

In today's world, accessibility poses a challenge for all communities worldwide. The achievements and civilizational progress are periodically showcased at global exhibitions. This article addresses the issue of accessibility for individuals with special needs and the implementation of facilities and solutions for accessibility in the context of the 76th World Expo 2020 in Dubai. The aim of the research undertaken in the article was to conduct a comparative analysis of accessibility within the exhibition space and pavilions, focusing on the occurrence of specific issues within the designated research area. The study also delved into individual cases, considering accessibility in various national pavilions at Expo 2020. The results of the accessibility study, conducted based on pre-established criteria, demonstrated the level of implementation of accessibility concepts within the exhibition space and pavilions from both comparative and problem-oriented perspectives.
New Approach to Encapsulation for Controlled Release of Chemical Additives
Authors: Contreras Elizabeth Q.
Published: December 2023

A new approach for the synthesis of bio-inspired polymer microcapsules used to encapsulate chemical additives and designed for small molecule release and delivery is shown here. The flexibility to design different microcapsules using an emulsion template results in various encapsulated additives for a new polymer technology platform. The base materials for encapsulation are polyaramids that are highly crosslinked membrane shells around an empty core. These empty capsules provide a carefully designed space to site-isolate chemical additives, various encapsulants for encapsulation, and delivery where needed. These microcapsules have demonstrated that after being formed from a simple one-pot synthesis between two immiscible solutions, a new method for encapsulation for applications in ordinary Portland cement is possible. The final product is a free-flowing solid that can be easily added to any fluid application. Experimental results show that when added to a basic cement slurry design, cement responds to the release of a salt accelerant as measured using standard oilfield equipment, like the pressurized consistometer, which measures changes in viscosity and thickening times. In one of many applications, the consistency of cement remains favorable at 20 Bc after adding encapsulated calcium chloride for up to 5 hours, for example. Over time, various capsules caused cement slurries to set at right angles at various thickening times with the controlled release of encapsulated calcium chloride. This new approach for encapsulation is promising for the chemical and energy field.
Changes in root architecture and endogenous hormone levels in alfalfa under phosphorus stress
Authors: xia jing , wang kun , Nan Lili
Published: December 2023

To explain changes in plant growth, root architecture, and endogenous hormones of different root-type alfalfa to P stress (non-stressed control, 1.00 mmol·L− 1 KH2PO4, versus P stress treatment, 0.01 mmol·L− 1 KH2PO4), we used sand culture to study the performance of rhizomatous rooted Medicago sativa ‘Qingshui’ (QS), tap rooted M. sativa ‘Longdong’ (LD), and creeping rooted M. varia ‘Gongnong No. 4’ (GN) with contrasting degrees of P tolerance. After 34 days of P stress treatment, values for ground biomass, plant height, leaf length, leaf width, leaf area, specific root length, specific surface area, zeatin (ZT) level, and P content in leaves, roots, and stems were decreased in response to stress treatment while root biomass, root/shoot ratio, total root length, taproot length, numbers of root tip and lateral root, root intersection angle, indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), abscisic acid (ABA), and gibberellin (GA3) concentrations were increased when compared with their respective controls in the year and next year, respectively. Topological index and fractal dimension were small, while the fractal abundance and the average link length were large. The root branching patterns were dichotomous branching. Under low-P stress, the amplitude of this response of ground biomass, root biomass, plant height, leaf length, leaf area, root/shoot ratio, total root length, number of root tip, root angle, specific surface area, and fractal dimension in GN of the year and next year was much smaller than those in LD and QS. From the point of view, GN was more tolerant than LD and QS under P condition.
Anti-obesity Effect of Catechin Added Functional Kimchi and its Metabolites
Authors: Hong Geun-Hye , Lee So-Young , Park Kun-Young
Published: December 2023

The antiobesity effects of catechin functional kimchi (CFK) were studied in C57BL/6 mice with high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity. We prepared four types of kimchi: commercial kimchi (CK), standard kimchi (SK), green tea functional kimchi (GFK), and CFK. CFK decreased the adipo/lipogenesis-related genes of CCAAT/enhancer binding protein α (C/EBPα). peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPARγ), and sterol regulatory element-binding protein-1 (SREBP-1) in the liver and epididymal fat tissues (p < 0.05). On the other hand, CFK showed the highest lipolysis-related gene expression of hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL) and β-oxidation related gene expression of carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1 (CPT-1). CFK produced the lowest inflammation-related gene expression of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) among all groups in the epididymal fat tissues (p < 0.05). In addition, UPLC-Q-TOF-MS showed that CFK is composed mainly of 39 active compounds, e.g., epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), catechins, apigenin, myricetin, kaempferitin, rutin, quercetin, and other substances with anti-inflammatory, blood cholesterol reduction, blood sugar reduction, body fat reduction, antioxidant, and anticancer functions. Thus, CFK exhibited an antiobesity effect through its modulation of lipid metabolism and active compounds.
Trends in ocular injuries among major trauma patients in England and Wales from 2004 to 2021
Authors: Bashir Mohammed , Bouamra Omar , Kirwan James , Lecky Fiona , Bourne Rupert
Published: December 2023

Background
Ocular trauma is a major cause of vision loss and injuries are often missed in multiply injured patients. Major trauma demographics in the UK have changed but no contemporary studies report ocular injuries in this cohort. We aimed to investigate ocular injury epidemiology and trends amongst major trauma patients in England and Wales from 2004–2021.
Methods
A retrospective analysis of prospectively collected Trauma Audit and Research Network (TARN) registry data was conducted. Major trauma was defined as injury severity score > 15, and ocular injuries were identified using AIS codes. Demographics, injury profiles, and outcomes were extracted. Descriptive statistics and 3-yearly trend data are reported.
Results
Of 287 267 major trauma cases, 2368 (0.8%) had ocular injuries, decreasing significantly from 1.87% (2004/06) to 0.66% (2019/21) (P < 0.0001). Males comprised 72.2% and median age was 34.5 years which increased (p < 0.0001). Road traffic collisions declined from 43.1–25.3% of ocular injury cases while falls increased and became the predominant mechanism (37.6% in 2019/21). Nonaccidental injuries increased from 15% (2004/06) to 26.5% (2016/18) (p < 0.0001). Concomitant head injury was present in 86.6% of cases. Ophthalmic procedures increased from 1.2% (2004/06) to 5% (2019/21) (p < 0.0001). Compared to previous TARN data, retinal injuries increased 3-fold to 18.6% and corneal injuries decreased from 31–6.6%.
Conclusions
Identifying sight-threatening injuries in polytrauma is challenging. Ocular injury epidemiology has changed significantly, though overall incidence is low. These findings may inform guideline development, resource allocation, and training priorities.
Health phenome of Parkinson’s patients reveals prominent mood-sleep cluster
Authors: Olsen Abby , Locascio Joseph , Tuncali Idil , Laroussi Nada , Abatzis Elena , Kamenskaya Polina , Kuras Yuliya , Yi Tom , Videnovic Aleks , Hayes Michael , Ho Gary , Paulson Jordan , Khurana Vikram , Herrington Todd , Hyman Bradley , Selkoe Dennis , Growdon John , Gomperts Stephen , Riise Trond , Schwarzschild Michael , Hung Albert , Wills Anne , Scherzer Clemens
Published: December 2023

Background: Associations between phenotypic traits, environmental exposures, and Parkinson’s disease have largely been evaluated one-by-one, piecemeal, and pre-selections. A comprehensive picture of comorbidities, phenotypes, exposures, and polypharmacy characterizing the complexity and heterogeneity of real-world patients presenting to academic movement disorders clinics in the US is missing.
Objectives: To portrait the complexity of features associated with patients with Parkinson’s disease in a study of 933 cases and 291 controls enrolled in the Harvard Biomarkers Study.
Methods: The primary analysis evaluated 64 health features for associations with Parkinson’s using logistic regression adjusting for age and sex. We adjusted for multiple testing using the false discovery rate (FDR) with £ 0.05 indicating statistical significance. Exploratory analyses examined feature correlation clusters and feature combinations.
Results: Depression (OR = 3.11, 95% CI 2.1 to 4.71), anxiety (OR = 3.31, 95% CI 2.01-5.75), sleep apnea (OR 2.58, 95% CI 1.47-4.92), and restless leg syndrome (RLS; OR 4.12, 95% CI 1.81-12.1) were significantly more common in patients with Parkinson’s than in controls adjusting for age and sex with FDR £ 0.05. The prevalence of depression, anxiety, sleep apnea, and RLS were correlated, and these diseases formed part of a larger cluster of mood traits and sleep traits linked to PD. Exposures to pesticides (OR 1.87, 95% CI 1.37-2.6), head trauma (OR 2.33, 95% CI 1.51-3.73), and smoking (OR 0.57, 95% CI 0.43-0.75) were significantly associated with the disease consistent with previous studies. Vitamin supplementation with cholecalciferol (OR 2.18, 95% CI 1.4-3.45) and coenzyme Q10 (OR 2.98, 95% CI 1.89-4.92) was more commonly used by patients than controls. Cumulatively, 43% (398 of 933) of Parkinson’s patients had at least one psychiatric or sleep disorder, compared to 21% (60 of 291) of healthy controls.
Conclusions: 43% of Parkinson’s patients seen at Harvard-affiliated teaching hospitals have depression, anxiety, and disordered sleep. This syndromic cluster of mood and sleep traits may be pathophysiologically linked and clinically important.
ZmZFP2 encoding a C4HC3-type RING zinc finger protein regulates kernel size and weight in maize
Authors: Zhang Long , Wang Qilei , Li Wenyu , Zheng Qi , Fu Miaomiao , Wang Han , Li Xinyu , Wang Yan , Hu Lingwei , Yao Weigang , Dong Yongbin , Wu Yongrui , Li Yuling
Published: December 2023

The development of maize (Zea mays) kernels is a complex physiological process, regulated by many genes in a spatio-temporal manner. However, there remain many unknown regulatory genes involved in maize kernel development. Here, we have identified a gene (ZmZFP2), which encodes a C4HC3-type RING zinc finger protein, that regulates maize kernel weight and size based on the suppression subtractive hybridization from maize endosperm in our previous studies. Through transgenic technology, over-expression of ZmZFP2 resulted in increased kernel weight and size compared to the wild type, while mutation of the gene led to decreased kernel weight and size. Microscopic observation of developing kernels revealed that ZmZFP2 affects the number of endosperm cells and their filling, as well as the starch and protein contents of the kernels. ZmZFP2 shows constitutive expression in various maize tissues. Furthermore, transcriptome analysis revealed that the zmzfp2-ems mutation significantly interfered with multiple biological processes, especially hormone pathways and ubiquitin degradation. Together, ZmZFP2 affects kernel size and weight by influencing endosperm cell number and filling, providing a valuable potential gene for increasing maize yield.
Examining Rurality and Social Determinants of Health Among Women with GDM: A 15-year Comprehensive Population Analysis
Authors: Ali Umama , Cure Laila , Lewis Rhonda K. , Rattani Ajita , Hill Twyla , Woods Nikki Keene
Published: December 2023

Background
Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a common pregnancy complication with long-term health consequences for mothers and their children. The escalating trends of GDM coupled with growing prevalence of maternal obesity, a significant GDM risk factor projected to approach nearly 60% by 2030 in Kansas, has emerged as a pressing public health issue.
Methods
The aim of this study was to compare GDM and maternal obesity trends in rural and urban areas and investigate maternal demographic characteristics influencing the risk of GDM development over a 15-year period. Trend analyses and a binary logistic regression were employed utilizing 2005 to 2019 de-identified birth record vital statistics from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (N = 589,446).
Results
Over the cumulative 15-year period, a higher prevalence of GDM was observed in rural areas across age, race/ethnicity, education, and insurance source. Throughout this period, there was an increasing trend in both GDM and overweight or obese pre-pregnancy BMI, with noticeable rural-urban disparities, particularly among rural women with an obese pre-pregnancy BMI. From 2005 to 2019, women, including Asian American Indians (OR: 2.72, 95% CI 2.58%-2.87%), Alaskan Natives (OR: 1.58, 95%, CI 1.44%-1.73%), Hispanics (OR: 1.42, 95% CI 1.37%-1.48%), women residing in rural areas (OR: 1.09, 95%, CI 1.06%-1.12%), with advanced maternal age (35–39 years, OR: 4.52 95% CI 4.24%-4.82%; ≥40 years, OR 5.93 95%, CI 5.47%-6.44%), with lower educational status (less than high school, OR: 1.14, 95% CI 1.10%-1.19%; high school graduate, OR: 1.10, 95% CI 1.06%-1.14%), Medicaid users (OR: 1.10, 95% CI 1.07%-1.14%), unemployed (OR: 1.06, 95% CI 0.97%-1.16%), or with an overweight or obese pre-pregnancy BMI (overweight, OR: 1.78, 95% CI 1.72%-1.84%; obese, OR: 3.60, 95% CI 3.49%-3.72%), were found to be at an increased risk of developing GDM.
Conclusions
There are persistent rural-urban and racial/ethnic disparities present from 2005 to 2019 among pregnant women in Kansas with or at-risk of GDM. There are several socioeconomic factors that contribute to these health disparities affecting GDM development. These findings, alongside with prominent rising maternal obesity trends, highlights the need to expand GDM services in a predominantly rural state, and implement culturally-responsive interventions for at-risk women.
The role of total bilirubin in bone mineral density among patients with type 2 diabetes older than 50 years
Authors: Luo Xiao-Min , Tang Min , Wei Xiao-Hui , Fan Neng-Guang , Zhang Zhi-Jian , Peng Yong-De
Published: December 2023

Background: Bilirubin may exert antioxidant and cytoprotective effects by scavenging peroxyl radicals and inhibiting oxidation. There is evidence that middle-aged and elderly patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) have abnormal bone metabolism and deterioration of bone microstructure, which can easily lead to increased bone fragility and osteoporosis. However, few studies have reported whether total bilirubin (TB) is associated with bone metabolism in middle-aged and elderly T2DM patients. We collected 10 years of data from the NHANES database to examine the association between TB and bone mineral density (BMD) in the US population of T2DM patients older than 50 years.
Methods: The population data in this study were obtained from five cycles of the NHANES database (2005-2006, 2007-2008, 2009-2010, 2013-2014, and 2017-2018) with a total of 50,464 subjects. The outcomes of interest were total femur BMD and lumbar BMD. The relationship between TB and BMD was analyzed using weighted multiple linear regression, subgroup analysis, generalized additive models, smoothed fitted curves, and two-part logistic regression.
Results: A total of 1609 individuals (mean age 63.78 years; 60.99% Caucasian) were available for final data analysis based on strict eligibility criteria. After complete correction for potential confounders, no association was found between TB and BMD. However, in other racial populations (mainly non-Hispanic Asians), TB levels were positively associated with both BMDs [total femur BMD, β (95% CI), 0.005 (0.000, 0.010); lumbar BMD, β(95% CI), 0.005 (0.000, 0.009)]. In addition, no interactions were observed based on all priori stratification.
Conclusions: This study demonstrates that TB levels are not associated with BMD when the effect of underlying liver disease is excluded in a nationally representative population of T2DM over 50 years of age in the United States. However, in Asian populations, TB levels appear to be positively associated with BMD.
Quantification of the Local Mechanical Behaviour in Dissimilar Metal Welds using Digital Image Correlation Instrumented Cross Weld Tensile Testing
Authors: Siefert William Charles , Buehner Michael , Alexandrov Boian T
Published: December 2023

The local yielding behavior in base metal, heat affected zone, fusion boundary region, and weld metal of low alloy steel / Alloy 625 filler metal welds was quantified using digital image correlation instrumented cross weld tensile test. The tested welds exhibited undermatching, matching, or overmatching weld metal yield strength with significant gradients in the local yielding behavior. An undermatching weld yielded at 69 MPa below the base metal yield stress, accumulating to 0.72% total strain. The base metal in an overmatching weld had 110 MPa lower yield strength than the weld metal. The strong strain hardening response in the Alloy 625 weld metal, within the uniform elongation range, and its constraining effect on the fusion boundary region and heat affected zone, led to extensive strain accumulation, necking, and final failure in the base metal of all tested welds. The yielding behavior of the tested welds was compared to stress-based criteria, utilizing minimum specified and as-delivered yield and ultimate tensile strength, and to strain-based criteria. The capability of digital image correlation instrumented cross weld tensile testing to quantify local yielding and strain accumulation demonstrates potential application in proving conformity to stress-based and strain-based design criteria of dissimilar and matching filler metal welds.
Investigating the association between household exposure to Anopheles stephensi and malaria in Sudan and Ethiopia: a case-control study protocol
Authors: Ashine Temesgen , Ebstie Yehenew Asmamaw , Ibrahim Rayyan , Epstein Adrienne , Bradley John , Nouredayem Mujahid , Michael Mikiyas G , Sidiahmed Amani , Negash Nigatu , Kochora Abena , Sulieman Jihad Eltaher , Reynolds Alison M , Alemayehu Eba , Zemene Endalew , Eyasu Adane , Dagne Alemayehu , Hailemeskel Elifaged , Jaiteh Fatou , Geleta Dereje , Lejore Ephrem , Weetman David , Hussien Ahmed Mahmoud , Saad Fadwa , Assefa Gudissa , Solomon Hiwot , Bashir Abdelgadir , Massebo Fekadu , Peeters Koen , Yewhalaw Delenasaw , Kafy Hmooda Toto , Donnelly Martin J , Gadisa Endalamaw , Malik Elfatih M , Wilson Anne L
Published: December 2023

Background
Endemic African malaria vectors are poorly adapted to typical urban ecologies. However, Anopheles stephensi, an urban malaria vector formerly confined to South Asia and the Persian Gulf, was recently detected in Africa and may change the epidemiology of malaria across the continent. Little is known about the public health implications of An. stephensi in Africa. This study is designed to assess the contribution of An. stephensi to malaria transmission in urban settings in Sudan and Ethiopia.
Methods
Case-control studies will be conducted in 3 urban settings (2 in Sudan, 1 in Ethiopia) to assess the association between presence/absence of An. stephensi in and around households and malaria cases. Cases, defined as individuals aged between 6 months and 12 years (in Sudan) and greater than 6 months (in Ethiopia), positive for Plasmodium falciparum and/or P. vivax by microscopy/rapid diagnostic test (RDT), and controls, defined as age-matched individuals negative for P. falciparum and/or P. vivax by microscopy/RDT, will be recruited from public health facilities. Entomological surveillance for adult and immature mosquitoes, and household surveys will be conducted at participant homes within 48 hours of enrolment. Both adult and immature mosquitoes will be identified by PCR. Conditional logistic regression will be used to estimate the association between presence/absence of An. stephensi and malaria status, adjusted for co-occurrence of other malaria vectors and participant gender.
Conclusions
Findings from this study will provide evidence of the relative importance of An. stephensi for malaria burden in urban African settings, shedding light on the need for future intervention planning and policy development.
Ocean temperatures and ITCZ migrations triggered cyclone-frequency variations during the Holocene
Authors: Schmitt Dominik , Gischler Eberhard , Melles Martin , Wennrich Volker , Behling Hermann , Shumilovskikh Lyudmila , Anselmetti Flavio , Vogel Hendrik , Peckmann Jörn , Birgel Daniel
Published: December 2023

Blue holes (marine sinkholes) are remarkable archives for past cyclone-frequency reconstructions, as they work as formidable natural sediment traps over periods of several millennia. Tropical cyclones (TC) mobilize allochthonous particles from adjacent areas during their passages. In the Belizean “Great Blue Hole”, these particles become repeatedly redeposited under anoxic bottom-water conditions as coarse-grained event-layers within annually-layered bottom sediments. Chronological counts of these event deposits allow to develop long-term statistics of TC-frequency, exceeding the short range of instrumental TC-monitoring (73-years). In view of an intensifying modern global climate change, it is crucial to understand processes of climate forcing, that naturally alter TC-frequency on centennial to millennial time scales. Here we show, that a mid-Holocene (6.0-4.8 ka BP) climate restructuring entailed substantial changes for south-western Caribbean TC-frequency. We applied a multi-proxy-approach to the 30-m-long sediment core BH8, in order to identify 694 tempestites and developed a 12500-years-long history of storm activity. These data, for the first time, allow to compare frequency statistics with ocean temperatures and Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) migrations for the entire Holocene interglacial. Our results demonstrate, that an insolation-controlled relocation of Atlantic warm-pools and a subsequent southward displacement of the ITCZ triggered a 6500-years-lasting rise of south-western Caribbean cyclone-frequency.
Measurement of ECM stiffness and liver cancer radiosensitivity using shear- wave-based elasticity in millimeter-sized 3D culture models
Authors: Lu Shao-Lun , Pei Yu , Liu Wei-Wen , Han Kun , Cheng Jason Chia-Hsien , Li Pai-Chi
Published: December 2023

Background The stiffness of the tumor microenvironment (TME) directly influences cellular behaviors. Radiotherapy (RT) is a common treatment for solid tumors, but the TME can impact its efficacy. In the case of liver cancer, clinical observations have shown that tumors within a cirrhotic, stiffer background respond less to RT, suggesting that the extracellular matrix (ECM) stiffness plays a critical role in the development of radioresistance. Methods This study explored the effects of ECM stiffness and the inhibition of lysyl oxidase (LOX) isoenzymes on the radiosensitivity of liver cancer in a millimeter-sized three-dimensional (3D) culture. We constructed a cube-shaped ECM-based millimeter-sized hydrogel containing Huh7 human liver cancer cells. By modulating the collagen concentration, we produced two groups of samples with different ECM stiffnesses to mimic the clinical scenarios of normal and cirrhotic livers. We used a single-transducer system for shear-wave-based elasticity measurement, to derive Young’s modulus of the 3D cell culture to investigate how the ECM stiffness affects radiosensitivity. This is the first demonstration of a workflow for assessing radiosensitivity in a millimeter-sized 3D culture. Results A higher ECM stiffness was associated with decreased radiosensitivity. Moreover, sonoporation-aided LOX inhibition with BAPN (β-aminopropionitrile monofumarate) significantly decreased the initial ECM stiffness and increased RT-induced cell death. Inhibiting LOX reduced the ECM stiffness, particularly when the ECM was stiffer. Importantly, combining LOX inhibition with RT sensitized cirrhotic liver cancer cells to irradiation-induced DNA damage, leading to a significant increase in radiosensitivity. Furthermore, LOX inhibition can be combined with sonoporation to overcome stiffness-related radioresistance, potentially leading to better treatment outcomes for patients with liver cancer. Conclusions This study reveals the critical role of ECM stiffness in liver cancer radioresistance. Sonoporation-aided LOX inhibition emerges as a promising strategy to mitigate stiffness-related resistance, offering potential improvements in liver cancer treatment outcomes.
Farm management has a greater impact on common bean rhizobia diversity and abundance than rainfed treatment
Authors: Canto Arantza del , Heath Katy Denise , Grillo Michael , Heras Jonathan , Lacuesta Maite , Saez Alvaro Sanz
Published: December 2023

Drought is one of the biggest problems for crop production and affects the survival and persistence of soil rhizobia. The reduced presence of rhizobia limits the establishment of symbiosis and endangers the productivity of legumes, which is the main source of plant protein worldwide. Thus, the preservation of soil microbial diversity increases the likelihood of stress-tolerant rhizobia and the potential for effective symbiotic relationships, improving crop resilience to stresses.
Aim Since the biodiversity can be affected by several factors including abiotic stresses or cultural practices, the objective of this research was to evaluate the effect of water availability, plant genotypes and agricultural management on the presence, nodulation capacity and genotypic diversity of rhizobia.
Method A field experiment was conducted with twelve common bean genotypes under irrigation and rain-fed conditions, bothin conventional and organic management. Estimation of the number of viable rhizobia present in soils was performed before the crop establishment, whereas the crop yield, nodule number and the strain diversity of bacteria present in nodules were determined at postharvest.
Results Drought reduced the number of nodules and of isolated bacteria and their genetic diversity, although to a lesser extent than the agrochemical inputs related to conventional management. In addition, the crop yield showed positive correlation with the number of nodules and the diversity of isolated strains.
Conclusions The maintenance of diversity will be a key factor to maintain crop production in the future, as problems caused by drought will be exacerbated by climate change.