bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Boundary-based Fourier Neural Operator (B-FNO) Method for Efficient Parametric Acoustic Wave Analysis
Authors: Li Ruoyan , Ye Wenjing , Liu Yijun
Published: July 2024

Repetitive wave analysis is required in various applications involving parametric analyses across different settings. However, traditional numerical methods based on domain discretization become computationally impractical due to the large number of simulations required, especially in unbounded domains. The boundary element method (BEM) is known for its effectiveness in solving wave equations, particularly in unbounded domains. Nevertheless, even with accelerated techniques, large-scale problems and those with high frequencies often necessitate numerous iterations, hampered by ill-conditioned system matrices. As a result, BEM becomes unsuitable for parametric analysis. To address these challenges, surrogate modelling techniques have been developed, and recent advancements in neural operators show promise in constructing surrogate models. However, they still face limitations when efficiently handling exterior and high-dimensional problems. In this study, we propose a novel data-driven surrogate modelling approach called B-FNO, which combines BEM and Fourier neural operator (FNO) for wave analysis in varying domains and frequencies. This approach formulates wave equations as integral formulations and utilizes FNO to map problem boundaries and other parameters to boundary solutions. Compared to existing surrogate modelling techniques, the B-FNO approach offers several advantages. These include reduced problem dimensionality and computational complexity, the ability to handle exterior problems without domain truncation, and significantly improved efficiency and accuracy compared to well-known neural network surrogate models. Moreover, compared to accelerated BEM, the B-FNO approach is better behaved and requires a much smaller number of iterations. We validate the effectiveness of our method through numerical experiments on a series of 2D and 3D benchmark problems, demonstrating its potential for broad application.
SLOMO controls AUX1-mediated gravitropism through a non-proteolytic role for AUX1 ubiquitination
Authors: De Smet Ive , Pan Lixia , Zhu Shanshuo , Iacobini Francesca Romana , Yang Shao-Li , Neyt Pia , de Cotte Brigitte van , Swarup Ranjan , Geisler Markus , Gevaert Kris , Band Leah , Mellor Nathan
Published: July 2024

Gravity-directed growth ensures that shoots and roots grow upwards and downwards, respectively. To achieve this, the organ’s angle with respect to gravity drives the asymmetric redistribution of the plant hormone auxin and consequently differential elongation creating a curvature of the organ. In addition to efflux transporters, the auxin influx transporter AUXIN RESISTANT 1 (AUX1) is essential for auxin redistribution during root gravitropism. Our results provide a biochemical framework that includes the F-box protein SLOMO affecting, possibly indirectly, AUX1 levels, and SLOMO controlling the ubiquitination of K261, K264, and K266, which affects AUX1 auxin transport properties. This reveals a novel, non-proteolytic role for SLOMO-mediated ubiquitination of AUX1.
Quantum state preparation of topological chiral spin liquids via Floquet engineering
Authors: Mambrini Matthieu , Poilblanc Didier
Published: July 2024

In condensed matter, Chiral Spin Liquids (CSL) are quantum spin analogs of electronic Fractional Quantum Hall states (in the continuum) or Fractional Chern Insulators (on the lattice). As the latter, CSL are remarkable states of matter, exhibiting topological order and chiral edge modes. Preparing CSL on quantum simulators like cold atom platforms is still an open challenge. Here we propose a simple setup on a finite cluster of spin-1/2 located at the sites of a square lattice. Using a Resonating Valence Bond (RVB) non-chiral spin liquid as initial state on which fast time-modulations of strong nearest-neighbor Heisenberg couplings are applied, following different protocols (out-of-equilibrium quench or semi-adiabatic ramping of the drive), we show the slow emergence of such a CSL phase. An effective Floquet dynamics, obtained from a high-frequency Magnus expansion of the drive Hamiltonian, provides a very accurate and simple framework fully capturing the out-of-equilibrium dynamics. An analysis of the resulting prepared states in term of Projected Entangled Pair states gives further insights on the topological nature of the chiral phase. Finally, we discuss possible applications to quantum computing.
Kompakt Penye İplik Üretiminde Kopça Türünün İplik Kalitesine ve Kopça Ömrüne Etkileri
Authors: Duru Baykal Pınar , Akbaş Özgür
Published: July 2024

Ring iplik manikalarının en önemli elemanlarından olan kopçalar, iplik kopuşlarını doğrudan etkilediği için maliyete ve kaliteye etki eden bir faktör olarak göz önünde tutulmalıdır. Bu çalışmada kaplama malzemesi, tel profili ve ağırlık bakımından farklı kopçalar kullanılarak üretim parametreleri sabit tutularak ring kompakt penye iplik üretimi gerçekleştirilmiştir. Üretilen ipliklerin kalite testleri yapılarak, sonuçlar kopça türlerine göre değerlendirilmiştir. Üretim esnasında kopça ömürleri de tespit edilmiştir. Kopçalar genel olarak değerlendirildiğinde; tel profili UDR olan safir kaplama kopça en uzun ömürlü kopça olmuştur. Bu kopçanın, bilezik hareket yolundaki genişletilmiş temas yüzeyi ve kaplama türü, yüksek iğ devrinde yüksek performans sağlamıştır.
Yoğun Bakım Ünitesinde Hasta Kalış Süresinin Karma Dağılım ile Modellenmesi
Authors: Saraç Güleryüz Selin
Published: July 2024

Yoğun bakım üniteleri sağlık sisteminde merkezi bir rol oynamaktadır. Hastanede kalış süresi, hastane yönetimi kalitesinin önemli bir göstergesidir. Simülasyon, çizelgeleme, planlama gibi alanlarda hasta kalış sürelerinin istatistiksel olarak tanımlanması gerekir. Ancak bu veriler oldukça çarpıktı ve bu nedenle istatistiksel modelleme zorlu bir iş olabilir. Karma dağılım modelleri, bu zorluğun üstesinden gelebilecek kabiliyete sahip modellerdir. Bu çalışmada, iki farklı yoğun bakım ünitesinde (genel cerrahi, koroner) gözlemlenen oldukça çarpık hasta kalış süresi verilerinin modellenmesi için karma dağılım yaklaşımı kullanılmıştır. Karma dağılım modellerini geliştirmek için dört farklı dağılım (normal, Weibull, gamma, lognormal) kullanılmıştır. Karma dağılımının optimal bileşen sayısı Bayes bilgi kriteri değeri yardımıyla belirlenmiş ve dağılım parametreleri beklenti-maksimizasyon algoritması kullanılarak tahmin edilmiştir. Bileşen ve parametre tahmini yapılan karma dağılımın model geçerliliği, ortalama mutlak yüzde hata ve R2 değeri kullanılarak değerlendirilmiş ve gerçek veri setlerini oldukça yüksek doğrulukla temsil ettiği görülmüştür.
Yanmış Orman Alanlarının Uzaktan Algılama Teknikleri ile Araştırılması: Kozan Orman Yangını Örneği
Authors: Çiçekli Sevim Yasemin
Published: July 2024

Orman yangınları son yıllarda sık meydana gelen bir afet olup, yangınlar sebebiyle ormanlarda yaşayan canlıların yaşam alanları yok olmaktadır. Bitki örtüsünün örtünün yok olmasıyla erozyon, sel-taşkın ve hava kirliliği gibi doğal afetlerin sayısında ve hızında artma görülür. Gelişen uydu teknolojileri ile orman alanlarının gözlemlenmesinde uzaktan algılama tekniklerinin kullanımını mümkün olmuştur. Bu çalışmada 23 Ağustos 2020’de Adana’nın Kozan ilçesinde meydana gelen orman yangını sonrası değişen bitki örtüsü Sentinel-2B MSI uydu görüntüleri kullanılarak gözlemlenmiştir. 29 Temmuz 2020 ve 28 Ağustos 2020 tarihinde algılanmış Sentinel-2B MSI uydu görüntülerine Normalize Yanma Oranı (NBR) bant oranlama tekniği uygulanmış, Fark Normalize Yanma Oranı (dNBR) fark yöntemi kullanılarak yanan alanlar belirlenerek, doğruluk analizi yapılmıştır. Çalışma sonunda yanan ve zarar gören alan dNBR yöntemi ile 28,26 km2 olarak hesaplanmış olup, yöntemin %96 oranında yüksek bir doğruluk sağladığı tespit edilmiştir. Sentinel-2B MSI görüntülerine Normalize Fark Bitki Örtüsü İndeksi (NDVI) uygulanarak yangın sonrası bölgede yapılan ağaçlandırma çalışması 25 km2 lik bir alanın bitki örtüsüne kavuştuğu tespit edilmiştir.
A Numerical Modelling of V-Bending
Authors: Kosa Ergin
Published: July 2024

In the study, a sheet metal is bent to analyze the punch force, Von Misses stresses and plastic strains on the metal for friction and non-friction cases. The 2-D v-bending forming is modelled in program. Model includes a die, a punch and a blank. Solid mechanics physics interface has been used in program. The analyze has been run with friction and non-friction cases for different strain-hardening exponents and sheet metal thicknesses. The sheet lengths and widths are 60 mm. Thickness of sheet metal is varied between 1.0 to 3.0 mm. The strain hardening exponent has been altered from 0.1 to 0.5. It is computed that the punch force has been increased as thickness of sheet metal and strain hardening exponent decreases. The achieved maximum punch force is at values of 1.12x105 N, 3.75x105 N and 4.05x105 N for thickness of 1.0-mm, 2.0-mm and 3.0-mm respectively when strain hardening exponent is 0.3. Also, as the strain hardening exponent increases from 0.1 to 0.5, the maximum punch force lowers from 2.03x105 N to 8.08x104 N for 1 mm thickness at friction case. Moreover, the maximum punch force reached up to 9.13x104 N for 1 mm thick sheet metal at non-friction case when the strain hardening exponent is 0.1. It is concluded that the maximum Von Misses stress has been calculated at the tip of sheet metal.
Laboratory modeling of displacements of rock blocks: Low-amplitude fast movements in experiments on a slider model of fault
Authors: Kaznacheev Pavel A. ,   Sсhmidt Institute of Physics of the Earth of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Maibuk Zinovii-Yurii Ya. , Ponomarev Alexander V. , Patonin Andrei V. , Sobolev Gennadii A. , Krayushkin Denis V. , Kokh Viktor V. ,   Sсhmidt Institute of Physics of the Earth of the Russian Academy of Sciences,   Sсhmidt Institute of Physics of the Earth of the Russian Academy of Sciences,   Geographical Observatory “Borok” of the Institute of Physics of the Earth of the Russian Academy of Sciences,   Sсhmidt Institute of Physics of the Earth of the Russian Academy of Sciences,   Sсhmidt Institute of Physics of the Earth of the Russian Academy of Sciences,   HSE University,   Sсhmidt Institute of Physics of the Earth of the Russian Academy of Sciences
Published: July 2024

Experimental modeling of physical processes associated with faults of the Earth's crust is important for studying earthquakes, rock burst and processes accompanying the deposit development. Laboratory experiments with the study of stick-slip sliding of rock blocks relative to each other on a fault slider model have become widespread. Stick-slip sliding manifests itself in the form of episodes of rapid displacement when load increases to a critical value. The paper investigated the reaction of the model under conditions of different fault humidity after increasing load to a subcritical value. After five days of fault wetting and three series of loads, small and fast displacements (microstick-slips) were detected by signals of a three-component high-frequency accelerometer. Microstick-slips are two orders of magnitude smaller than displacements during episodes of the traditionally observed stick-slip. After time has elapsed since the loading stopped, intervals between microstick-slips increase faster than according to the power law. Magnitude of displacement, amplitude of accelerations and pulses of acoustic emission gradually decreases with reaching the plateau. Possible qualitative mechanisms of the occurrence of microstick-slips are proposed, taking into account the gradual wetting and drying of the fault zone after water injection. The main hypothesis is competition of hardening and softening processes in the fault zone during the removal of water from the fault due to drying and action of capillary forces. Uneven propagation of these processes along the fault can create prerequisites for either small linear displacement on a limited section of the fault, or small displacement with rotation. These displacements manifest themselves as microstick-slips. General slow slippage along the fault and decrease in shear stress leads to decrease in frequency of microstick-slips and in their characteristic parameters.
Long-term variability of surface manifestations of eddies in the Kara Sea
Authors: Konik Aleksandr A. ,   P. P. Shirshov Institute of Oceanology of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Zimin Aleksey V. ,   P. P. Shirshov Institute of Oceanology of the Russian Academy of Sciences,   St. Petersburg State University
Published: July 2024

The paper provides a quantitative assessment of the long-term variability of small eddies structures in the Kara Sea based on the analysis of Sentinel-1A/B satellite radar images from August 2015 to 2021. To compare the variability of the characteristics in different years, data on wind speed, ice area, and mixed layer thickness were used. During the specified period, 6340 surface manifestations of vortices were identified, with an average diameter of 2.9 km, predominantly cyclonic in rotation. The lowest number of surface manifestations was recorded in 2016 — 468 eddies, while the highest was in 2021 — 1247 eddies. It was found that the main areas of occurrence of manifestations are located in the southwest and central parts of the Kara Sea above the depths west and northwest of the Yamal Peninsula, as well as in the regions of the frontal drainage zone and the surface freshwater layer near the mouths of the Ob and Yenisei rivers. A significant prevalence of cyclonic eddies over anticyclonic ones is observed throughout the years, with their mean diameter ranging from 2.3 km in 2017 to 3.7 km in 2021. The variability in the number of registered eddies is presumably related to the influence of the intensity of wind stress in the atmospheric boundary layer on the sea surface. A significant portion of small eddies is registered at wind speeds of 5 m/s in the developed mixed layer with a thickness of more than 10 meters. It is shown that the most likely cause of eddy generation is the interaction of tides with the topographic irregularities of the seabed and baroclinic instability observed in the River Plume frontal zone.
Features of the Study of Industrial and Construction Management Reform in the Latest Russian Historiography
Authors: Mineev A. I. ,   Chuvash State University
Published: July 2024

The article analyzed the peculiarities of studying various aspects of the reform of industry and construction management (1957–1965) in the works of modern Russian researchers, highlighted the main trends in the development of the domestic historiography of the issue. It was revealed that in the last two and a half decades the history of councils of the national economy (sovnarchoz) has been studied mainly at the regional level, with the wide use of specific historical materials identified in the funds of local archives. At the same time, quite a lot of theoretical works have been prepared, devoted directly to the reasons, progress of implementation and the results of the reform. The article draws attention to the variety of aspects of the topic studied by modern researchers. The issues on which the discussions between historian scholars are most active are highlighted: the ratio of economic, political and subjective factors that led to the transition to a new system of industrial and construction management; the problem of the essence of reform, the degree of its radicality; reasons for the winding down of reform. Based on a comparison of different points of view, the author describes the fundamental differences in approaches to the study of these issues. The article shows the commonality of the views of researchers in highlighting the shortcomings in the activities of the sovnarkhoz created on the ground, and assessing the reform as hasty and contradictory. It is concluded that with all the variety of published works, at present the topic of the history of the sovnarkhoz in the Soviet Union has the potential to expand both “wide” and “deep”, by studying new aspects of the topic, introducing previously unused historical sources into scientific circulation, systematizing, generalizing and rethinking existing views and assessments.
Russian Revolution: Word and Deed [Review on: Words and conflicts: The language of confrontation and the escalation of the Civil War in Russia. St. Petersburg: EUSP Press, 2022. 328 p. (The Age of Wars and Revolutions; num. 16)]
Authors: Stelmak M. M. ,   Historical Archive of the Omsk Region, Petin D. I. ,   Omsk State Technical University
Published: July 2024

The publication is an analytical review of a collection of articles prepared by a group of historians under the auspices of the European University in St. Petersburg. The purpose of our work is to consider the book novelty as a phenomenon in the modern historiography of the Revolution and the Civil War in Russia from the theoretical standpoint of the principles of system and determinism. Due to the specifics of the topic, the main scientific method used by us in the review is problematic. The relevance of the views, the original approach and methodology of a wide range of sources used by the team of authors in the study of the problem are emphasized. The collection of articles makes it possible to expand the understanding of events and phenomena in the life of the Russian state and society in the era of social cataclysms of 1917–1922. At the same time, the past is interpreted, including through the discourse of the history of images, the history of emotions, anthropology, and the history of everyday life. At the same time, along with the merits of the publication, the final part of the review contains some subjective critical passages. They do not reduce the overall positive impression of the reviewed work and are seen as ways to further develop the topic (in particular, through an appeal to regional experience). In our opinion, the analyzed work, which is distinguished by rich factual material, can be useful to specialists in several areas of historical knowledge. This review is addressed to researchers of historical science, Russian historiography, the history of the Revolution and the Civil War in Russia.
Implementation of Reinforcement Learning Algorithm in the Development of English Language Learning Skills
Authors: Gomathi R D ,   Kongu Engineering College, Erode, India, Punithaasree K S , Vijaya Kala S , Maheswaran S
Published: July 2024

Given the increasing importance of English proficiency in today’s globalized world, this study introduces an innovative approach to learning the language. Recognizing the complexities of language acquisition, the research proposes a novel method that combines recent advancements in reinforcement learning algorithms with educational knowledge to create a flexible and adaptive learning environment. This methodology charts a personalized learning path by thoroughly evaluating students’ reading, listening, and observational skills. By meticulously developing an application based on the suggested technique, 50 participants engaged in a practical application that utilized reinforcement learning algorithms to evaluate student performance and identify individual strengths. The continuous effectiveness assessments demonstrate the model’s resounding success, with an impressive 98% course completion rate and 97% accuracy. The platform aims to enhance cross-linguistic abilities, such as critical thinking and effective communication, alongside traditional language proficiency. This method empowers students globally by seamlessly integrating cutting-edge technology with pedagogical insights, offering a tailored and dynamic learning environment to help students thrive in the evolving educational landscape of the 21st century.
Impacts of emergent rigid vegetation patches on flow characteristics of open channels
Authors: Qiu Hunan , Li Peng , Wang Wen , Shi Peng , Zhang Jiao , Chen Hao
Published: July 2024

This study examines the influence of emergent vegetation on flow dynamics in natural river systems using large eddy simulation. It specifically addresses alterations in flow velocity and turbulence characteristics within open channels with varying densities of vegetation. The findings reveal a marked reduction in flow velocity within vegetated areas due to the obstruction posed by vegetation and the dynamics of shear layers. The flow alteration manifests in two distinct phases: the formation of a stable wake region behind densely vegetated patches and a more gradual velocity recovery in areas with sparser vegetation. In non-vegetated downstream zones, flow velocity tends to stabilize over a distance. Regarding turbulence, the study identifies differing patterns: enhanced vortex structures and accelerated energy dissipation in sparsely vegetated areas, contrasted with reduced turbulence in densely vegetated patches. Quadrant analysis further elucidates that ejections and inward interactions are primary contributors to Reynolds stress within vegetation patches, whereas outward interactions and sweeps become dominant in downstream regions. These insights offer a deeper understanding of how aquatic vegetation shapes river hydrodynamics, providing valuable information for effective river management and ecological restoration strategies.
Sensitivity of creep parameters to pressure fluctuation of transient flow in viscoelastic pipes
Authors: Sun Qiang , Wang Xu , Wu Yuebin , Xu Ying , Wang Zhihao
Published: July 2024

A stepwise method is one of the efficient approaches in the calibration of transient flow in viscoelastic pipes. However, there is the lack of comprehensive research on the calibration method for retarded time and creep compliance. Therefore, the sensitivity of the order of magnitude of the creep parameters in the presence of interactions to transient flow pressure damping and phase in the case of the two-element Kelvin–Voigt model is investigated. Also, the calibration methods of retarded time and creep compliance in the stepwise method of transient flow parameter calibration for viscoelastic pipes are proposed. The results indicate that the creep compliances do not affect the phase of the pressure fluctuations when the selected retarded times are greater than the order of magnitude 10−1. For the first Kelvin–Voigt element, when the order of magnitude of the retarded time exceeds 10−2, an increase in creep compliance results in an increase in the degree of damping of pressure fluctuations. When the order of magnitude of the retarded time is less than 10−2, the rule is reversed. For the second Kelvin–Voigt element, an increase in creep compliance results in an increase in the degree of damping of transient flow pressure fluctuations independent of the retarded time.
Identification of illicit discharges in sewer networks by an SWMM-Bayesian coupled approach
Authors: Yang Liyuan , Huang Biao , Liu Jiachun
Published: July 2024

Illicit discharges into sewer systems are a widespread concern within China's urban drainage management. They can result in unforeseen environmental contamination and deterioration in the performance of wastewater treatment plants. Consequently, pinpointing the origin of unauthorized discharges in the sewer network is crucial. This study aims to evaluate an integrative method that employs numerical modeling and statistical analysis to determine the locations and characteristics of illicit discharges. The Storm Water Management Model (SWMM) was employed to track water quality variations within the sewer network and examine the concentration profiles of exogenous pollutants under a range of scenarios. The identification technique employed Bayesian inference fused with the Markov chain Monte Carlo sampling method, enabling the estimation of probability distributions for the position of the suspected source, the discharge magnitude, and the commencement of the event. Specifically, the cases involving continuous release and multiple sources were examined. For single-point source identification, where all three parameters are unknown, concentration profiles from two monitoring sites in the path of pollutant transport and dispersion are necessary and sufficient to characterize the pollution source. For the identification of multiple sources, the proposed SWMM-Bayesian strategy with improved sampling is applied, which significantly improves the accuracy.
Microgravity Survey to Evaluate Earthquake Effects on the Derbendikhan Dam Site, Iraq
Authors: Mousa Ahmed , Al-Bahadily Hayder , Mickus Kevin
Published: July 2024

A microgravity investigation was conducted along the axis of the Derbendikhan rockfill dam in Iraq. The dam lies in an earthquake-prone area within the High Folded Zone of the Western Zagros Fold–Thrust Belt. The goal of the survey was to evaluate the expected subsurface damage that could threaten the stability of the dam due to the effects of a 7.3 magnitude earthquake and future earthquakes that cause foundation cracking and landslides. The survey consists of 324 microgravity stations distributed on four profiles. Residual gravity anomalies were obtained by removing the regional effect of a 5-m upward continuation filter. Several negative and positive anomalies are distinguishable in a residual anomalies map that reflects the subsurface heterogeneity within the clay material that makes up the dam. The results reveal that there are no recognizable indications regarding the evolution of subsurface channels after the earthquake was given. Furthermore, two prominent anomalies appear close to the right bank at roughly 21 m in depth. These positive and negative anomalies suggest that high- and low-density zones coincide with different degrees of compressional stresses caused by the earthquake. Two-dimensional modeling indicates several low (less compacted) and high (more compacted) density areas that warrant further investigation in terms of material strength. The results can be used as a guide for a drilling program to examine the sources of the anomalies.
Estimating Background Threshold Values for Risk Assessment
Authors: Tramm Kenneth S. , Minter Jason T. , Seaton Catherine A.
Published: July 2024

Site investigations that anticipate soil screening within a risk-based corrective action (RBCA) program often require an understanding of naturally occurring or ambient soil conditions. Because most RBCA programs offer very limited, if any, pre-published values for naturally occurring metals (e.g., arsenic and lead), it is imperative that the risk assessment process be informed by defensible screening-level background threshold values (BTVs). In the absence of representative BTVs, conservative screening levels from the RBCA process may incorrectly “screen in” ambient conditions as a release (false positive or Type I error) when none has occurred. False positives add unnecessary cost and confusion to subsequent investigation or remediation decisions. This article demonstrates an effective approach to developing and evaluating soil data sets for BTV development during any stage of the risk-assessment process. Whereas this article focuses on the most common metals associated with Type I errors (e.g., lead and arsenic), the process to estimate BTVs works for any organic or inorganic contaminants when sufficient data is available. The approach outlined in this article is intentionally conservative in nature to both increase regulatory acceptance and simplify the statistical steps needed for BTV estimation at earlier stages of the risk-assessment process.
The influence of religious faith on prosocial intentions and behaviors. Findings from a cross-sectional survey among young adults voluntarily working in social contexts
Authors: Büssing Arndt
Published: July 2024

Despite the constant decline of religious trust in Western societies, young adults are still voluntarily working in a social context. Nevertheless, Living from Faith / Being with God (as a religious orientation in life) was of relevance for only about one-third of these young adults. They scored higher on this source of faith when they were raised in a religious family and were active members of a church community, indicating that religious socialization is relevant for their formation of faith and related ethics and ideals. However, in this sample of young adults, all were voluntarily engaged in the social field, whether they were active in their church, had a specific faith as an orientation in their life, and believed in God or not. Concerning compassion as an intention and their commitment to disadvantaged people, Living from Faith / Being with God was less relevant as compared to the ability to pause in wondering awe with subsequent feelings of gratitude. This does not mean that religious faith would be less relevant, as intrinsic religiosity aims to reconnect with the Sacred. It is thus an end in itself, rather than a tool to obtain something (Allport & Ross, 1967). Both resources could be further trained and developed, as compassion, awe, and gratitude are self-transcendent emotions that are relevant for a society that has to respond to global crises, rapid culture shifts, and thus growing anxiety and insecurity.
Mental Functioning and Religiosity of Prisoners
Authors: Miałkowska-Kozaryna Milena , Miszewski Kamil
Published: July 2024

Despite the important role religiosity plays in the resocialization of inmates, this research field lacks systematic reviews. The purpose of the study was to supply an account of mental functioning of prisoners viewed in the framework of their religiosity. The research included 124 individuals sentenced to twenty-five years of imprisonment. The research findings suggest that those offenders who claim to be believers significantly more often feature higher mental resilience (Mental Resilience Scale) and report more health-related issues, mainly somatic symptoms, anxiety and insomnia (GHQ-28). However, the analysis did not reveal any statistically significant relationship between religiosity and the level of anxiety (STAI) and the feel that penitentiary isolation is a stressful situation (the proprietary tool - Prison Isolation as a Stressful Situation). The study points to the  role of faith for the mental functioning of offenders sentenced to long prison sentences and, as such, should be considered crucial to resocialization.
Gut Microbiota Dysbiosis in the Pathogenesis of Metabolic-dysfunction Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD)
Authors: Mir Gh Jeelani , Ashraf Nissar Ul
Published: July 2024

:

Metabolic-dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), previously referred
to as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), affecting approximately 30% of the global population.
Projections suggest that MASLD incidence may rise by up to 56% over the next decade.
MASLD has become the fastest-growing cause of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in the USA,
France, UK, and other regions worldwide. The prevalence of MASLD and MASLD-related liver
damage is expected to parallel the increasing rates of obesity and type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM)
globally. The factors contributing to MASLD development and its progression to metabolic-dysfunction-
associated steatohepatitis (MASH), fibrosis, cirrhosis, and HCC remain poorly understood.
Evidence from cell-based, animal-based, and human-subject studies suggests that insulin
resistance, endoplasmic reticulum stress, oxidative stress, impaired autophagy, genetics, epigenetics,
reduced immune surveillance, increased gut inflammation, and gut dysbiosis are crucial events
in MASLD pathogenesis. In recent years, dysregulation of gut microbiota has emerged as a potential
mechanism implicated in MASLD and MASLD-related hepatocarcinogenesis. This review
briefly outlines the mechanistic events significant for MASLD pathogenesis. Additionally, it offers
insight into dysregulated gut microbiota and its correlation with MASLD and MASLD-related liver
damage. Furthermore, it highlights pertinent questions for cell and microbiologists in the MASLD
research field. It underscores the necessity for identifying factors leading to gut microbiome
dysregulation in MASLD and MASH pathogenesis. Identifying these factors could aid in the development
of novel strategies for managing MASLD and MASLD-related liver damage.
The Relationship Between Symptom Change and Use of a Web-Based Self-Help Intervention for Parents of Children With Externalizing Behavior Disorders: Exploratory Study
Authors: Wähnke Laura , Dose Christina , Klemp Marie-Theres , Mühlenmeister Judith , Plück Julia , Döpfner Manfred
Published: July 2024

Background

Web-based self-help (WASH) has been found to be effective in the treatment of child externalizing behavior disorders. However, research on the associations of caregivers’ use of WASH and symptom changes of child externalizing behaviors is lacking.

Objective

This study examined the longitudinal and reciprocal associations between the use of WASH by caregivers of children with externalizing behavior disorders and their children’s externalizing behavior symptoms.

Methods

Longitudinal data of 276 families from 2 intervention conditions of a randomized controlled trial (either unguided or supported by a therapist over the phone) were analyzed. Caregiver- and clinician-rated child externalizing behavior symptoms were assessed before (T1), in the middle (T2), and after the 6-month WASH intervention (T3). Additionally, 2 indicators of the caregivers’ use of the WASH intervention were considered: number of log-ins (frequency) and the percentage of completed material (intensity). Associations of caregivers’ use during early (T1-T2) and late (T2-T3) treatment with child externalizing behavior symptoms were analyzed using path analyses (structural equation modeling).

Results

Frequency and intensity of use were higher during the first 3 months than during the next 3 months of the intervention period. The number of log-ins at early treatment was significantly but weakly associated with caregiver-reported child externalizing behavior symptoms in the long term (T3). Moreover, caregiver-reported child externalizing severity at T2 predicted the number of log-ins in the late treatment. The results were not replicated when considering the percentage of completed material as a measure of use or when considering clinician ratings of child externalizing behavior symptoms.

Conclusions

The findings provide the first, albeit weak, evidence for longitudinal associations between caregivers’ use of WASH and improvements in caregiver-rated child externalizing behavior symptoms. However, as the associations were rather weak and could not be replicated across different rater perspectives and operationalizations of use, further research is needed to better understand these relations and their interplay with other putative influence factors (eg, quality of the implementation of the interventions, changes in parenting behaviors).

Trial Registration

German Clinical Trials Register DRKS00013456; https://www.drks.de/DRKS00013456

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

RR2-10.1186/s12888-020-2481-0
Establishing Priorities for Improving Data Collection and Measurement of Mental Health and Well-Being of Adolescents With Special Educational Needs Within Nonmainstream Schools: Protocol for a Delphi Study
Authors: Jeffery Mairi C , Deighton Jessica , Lereya Suzet Tanya
Published: July 2024

Background

There are more than 1.5 million children and young people in England with special educational needs (SEN), with over 160,000 young people in the United Kingdom attending a special school or alternative provision (AP) setting. Young people with SEN have been found to be at risk for poorer mental health and well-being than non-SEN peers. However, there is a range of both school-related and research challenges associated with identifying difficulties in a timely manner.

Objective

This Delphi study aims to determine a list of stakeholder priorities for improving school-based measurement of mental health and well-being among young people with SEN, at an aggregated level, within secondary special school or AP settings. A secondary objective is to inform the implementation of school-based well-being surveys, improve engagement in special schools or AP settings, and improve survey response rates among children and young people with SEN.

Methods

A mixed methods Delphi study will be conducted, including a scoping review and preliminary focus groups with school staff members and researchers to establish key issues. This will be followed by a 2-round Delphi survey to determine a list of stakeholder priorities for improving the measurement of mental health and well-being at an aggregate level within special schools and AP settings. A final stakeholder workshop will be held to discuss the findings. A list of recommendations will be drafted as a report for special schools and AP settings.

Results

The study has received ethical approval from the University College London Research Ethics Committee. The stage 1 scoping review has commenced. Recruitment for focus groups will begin in Autumn 2024. The first round of the Delphi survey will commence in early 2025, and the second round of the Delphi survey in the spring of 2025. The final workshop will commence in mid-2025 with final results expected in late 2025.

Conclusions

There is a need for clear recommendations for special schools and AP settings on priorities for improving the measurement of mental health and well-being problems among young people with SEN. There is also a need for recommendations to researchers implementing school-based well-being surveys, including the #BeeWell program, to enable them to improve their engagement in special schools and AP settings and ensure surveys are accessible.

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

PRR1-10.2196/58610
A Microfinance Intervention With or Without Peer Support to Improve Mental Health Among Transgender and Nonbinary Adults (the Creating Access to Resources and Economic Support Study): Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Poteat Tonia C , Reisner Sari L , Wirtz Andrea L , Mayo-Wilson Larissa Jennings , Brown Carter , Kornbluh Wiley , Humphrey Ash , Perrin Nancy
Published: July 2024

Background

Transgender and nonbinary (TNB) people experience economic and psychosocial inequities that make them more likely to be subject to financial and mental health harms exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Sustainable, multilevel interventions are needed to address these harms. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic galvanized many TNB-led organizations to provide emergency financial and peer support for TNB people negatively impacted by the pandemic. However, the efficacy of these interventions has not been evaluated. The Creating Access to Resources and Economic Support (CARES) study seeks to assess the efficacy of feasible, acceptable, and community-derived interventions to reduce economic and psychological harms experienced by transgender people in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Objective

The study aims to (1) compare the efficacy of microgrants with peer mentoring with that of microgrants without peer mentoring in reducing psychological distress, (2) examine mechanisms by which microgrants with or without peer mentoring may impact psychological distress, and (3) explore participants’ intervention experiences and perceived efficacy.

Methods

We will enroll 360 TNB adults into an embedded, mixed methods, 3-arm, and 12-month randomized controlled trial. Participants will be randomized 1:1:1 to arm A (enhanced usual care), which will receive a single microgrant plus monthly financial literacy education, arm B (extended microgrants), which will receive enhanced usual care plus monthly microgrants, or arm C (peer mentoring), which will receive extended microgrants combined with peer mentoring. All intervention arms last for 6 months, and participants complete semiannual, web-based surveys at 0, 6, and 12 months as well as brief process measures at 3 and 6 months. A subset of 36 participants, 12 (33%) per arm, will complete longitudinal in-depth interviews at 3 and 9 months.

Results

Full recruitment began on January 8, 2024, and, as of July 26, 2024, a total of 138 participants have enrolled. Recruitment is expected to be completed no later than March 31, 2025, and the final study visit will take place in March 2026.

Conclusions

This national, web-based study will demonstrate whether an intervention tailored to reduce material hardship and improve peer support among TNB adults will reduce psychological distress. Its equitable, community-academic partnership will ensure the rapid dissemination of study findings.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05971160; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05971160

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/63656
Mental Health Changes in US Transgender Adults Beginning Hormone Therapy Via Telehealth: Longitudinal Cohort Study (Preprint)
Authors: Corman Jae Downing , Hughto Jaclyn M W , Shireman Theresa I , Baker Kellan , Steinle Kate , Forcier Michelle
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND

Gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) has shown potential for improving mental health outcomes among transgender and gender-diverse adults. How clinical outcomes change among adults receiving GAHT via telehealth across the United States is not well known.

OBJECTIVE

This study evaluated the relationship between initiating GAHT via a telehealth clinic and changes in depression, anxiety, and suicide ideation over a 3-month period.

METHODS

This cohort study evaluated the relationship between initiating GAHT via a telehealth clinic and changes in mental health over a 3-month period. Data were collected at baseline and 3 months later among adults who had their first GAHT visit between August and November 2023. The study included adults aged 18 years and older initiating GAHT for the first time, with a final sample of 342 adults across 43 states (192 initiated estrogen and 150 initiated testosterone therapy). The primary outcomes were depression symptoms using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), anxiety symptoms using the General Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7), and suicide ideation in the past 2 weeks.

RESULTS

Before GAHT initiation, 40% (136/342) of participants reported depression (PHQ-9 ≥10), 36% (120/342) reported anxiety (GAD-7 ≥8), and 25% (91/342) reported suicidal ideation. By follow-up, significant reductions were observed in PHQ-9 (−2.4, 95% CI −3.0 to −1.8) and GAD-7 scores (−1.5, 95% CI −2.0 to −1.0). Among those with elevated symptoms, 40% (48/120) to 42% (56/133) achieved a clinically meaningful response (≥50% reduction in baseline scores), and 27% (36/133) to 28% (33/120) achieved remission (PHQ-9 or GAD-7 score <5). Of those with suicide ideation at baseline, 60% (50/83) had none at follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

This study highlights the important relationship between telehealth-delivered GAHT and mental health, emphasizing the importance of accessible and timely care.
Motivation theories and constructs in experimental studies of online instruction: A systematic review and directed content analysis (Preprint)
Authors: Gavarkovs Adam , Miller Erin , Coleman Jaimie , Gunasegaran Tharsiga , Kusurkar Rashmi , Kulasegaram Kulamakan , Anderson Melanie , Brydges Ryan
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND

Educators’ choices about how to design online instruction can influence learners’ motivation. To optimize learners’ motivation, educators must be capable of using effective motivational design strategies that target a breadth of motivational constructs (e.g., interest, confidence).

OBJECTIVE

This systematic review and directed content analysis aimed to catalogue the motivational constructs that researchers have targeted in their experimental comparison studies of motivational design strategies for online instruction in health professions education. The authors sought to identify motivational constructs that have received attention in the field and those that are presently understudied, and thus should be the focus of future studies.

METHODS

Medline, Embase, Emcare, PsychINFO, ERIC, and Web of Science were searched from 1990 to August 2022. Studies were included if they compared online instructional design strategies intending to support a motivational construct (e.g., interest) or motivation in general, among learners in licensed health professions. Two team members independently screened and coded studies regarding the motivational theories that researchers used to inform their studies and the motivational constructs they targeted with their design strategies.

RESULTS

From 10,584 records, 46 studies were included. Researchers tested motivational design strategies intended to make instruction more interesting, enjoyable, and fun (n = 23) far more than they tested motivational designs intended to support extrinsic value (n = 9), confidence (n = 6), social connectedness (n = 4), or autonomy (n = 2). A focus on intrinsic value beliefs appeared to be driven by studies that were not informed by any theory of motivation.

CONCLUSIONS

Researchers in health professions education have primarily focused on motivating learners by making online instruction more interesting, enjoyable, and fun. We recommend that future research investigate motivational design strategies targeting other high-yield motivational constructs such as purpose, confidence, and autonomy. Such research would help to generate a broader tool-kit of strategies for educators to draw on to support learners’ motivation in online settings.

CLINICALTRIAL

PROSPERO registration number: #CRD42022359521
A REVERSE PHASE ULTRA PERFORMANCE LIQUID CHROMATOGRAPHY-PHOTO DIODE ARRAY ESTIMATION OF CAPTOPRIL AND HYDROCHLOROTHIAZIDE IN BULK AND PHARMACEUTICAL DOSAGE FORM
Authors: MANORANJANI M. , T. N. V. S. S. SATYADEV , DAVID RAJU M.
Published: July 2024

Objective: This investigation demonstrates a stability-indicating and reliable “Reverse Phase Ultra-Performance Liquid Chromatography (RP-UPLC)” method to simultaneously quantify Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) and Captopril in the pharmaceutical dosage form.
Methods: Hydrochlorothiazide and Captopril were separated by using C18 column (100 mm x 2.1 mm, 1.7μm) with an isocratic type of elution using mobile phase containing Acetonitrile+0.1% formic acid buffer (60:40), respectively with 0.2 ml/min flow rate. The wavelength used to detected at 210 nm to quantify Hydrochlorothiazide and Captopril.
Results: Captopril and Hydrochlorothiazide peaks were eluted with fine resolution at retention times 0.772 min and 1.679 min, respectively. In 5-30 μg/ml concentration ranges for each Captopril and Hydrochlorothiazide, the calibration graphs were linear, with regression coefficients of 0.9998 and 0.9995, respectively. The suggested Ultra-performance liquid chromatography approach has been shown as sensitive, precise, robust, accurate, specific and stability, indicating through the resolution of Captopril and Hydrochlorothiazide from its degradation-based compounds.
Conclusion: The established ultra-performance liquid chromatography technique was effectively extended to the evaluation of Captopril and Hydrochlorothiazide in the pharmaceutical dosage form, and the test results appeared satisfactory.