bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Previous Experiences of Students in Manufacturing Class
Authors: Sellés M.A. , Pérez-Bernabeu E. , Sánchez-Caballero S. , Plá-Ferrando Caballero R.
Published: April 2016

The economic crisis that began in Spain at the end of 2007 and early 2008, which still lasts today, has greatly harmed industry in the country. Many companies dissolved, and many workers who worked for them remained unemployed. But what effect did the financial crisis have on universities? Apart from financial problems, they generally have had an increase in the number of students enrolled. Many of them are people who, after becoming unemployed, have decided to take time to improve their academic standing, and thus have more chances of finding a job when they finish. This paper will show how these people, with their knowledge and experience acquired in industry as workers, can add value to the manufacturing processes class.
Teaching Experience for the Virtualization of Machine Tools and Simulation of Manufacturing Operations
Authors: Morales-Palma D. , Martínez-Donaire Andrés Jesús , Centeno Gabriel , Vallellano C.
Published: April 2016

This work aims to generate the digital documentation related to a number of manufacturing processes on different machine tools. The project is developed with the contribution of engineering students doing their final thesis within this field. Different machine tools and machining and incremental forming processes have been virtualized by using the CAD/CAM software CATIA V5. Some of the modeled parts were finally manufactured after checking and post-processing the NC code. Digital documentation is developed on different formats (e.g. photographs, videos, images and simulations) in order to be used as a teaching complement.
Information and communication technologies and gender in climate change and green economy: Situating women’s opportunities and challenges in Zambian policies and strategies
Authors: Namukombo Justina
Published: April 2016

Zambia’s 2012 report on the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development (RIO +20) identifies existing opportunities on the country’s transitioning to green economy. The RIO +20 conference of 2012 has resulted in new momentum in addressing problems of sustainable development. However, this article argues that there are practical challenges that require paying attention to, especially those involving women. The article addressed one key question: To what extent can women participate in the transitioning process to green economy in Zambia and what opportunities and challenges exists? The study used document analysis to answer the above question. National policy documents were reviewed to understand interventions on environmental management. Whilst going through the documents, the study used gender analysis frameworks (education, skills, roles in family and society, access to infrastructure) to bring out qualitative and quantitative information on women. Using suggested green economy interventions in the literature as benchmark, qualitative analysis was used to project possible participation of women in green economy activities and possible challenges to be faced. The study found that participation of women will be limited despite existing opportunities because of challenges of access to information and communication technology infrastructures, low educational levels and skills and financial constraints. As Zambia undergoes a transitioning process, these limitations should be addressed in planned green economy policies and interventions to maximise benefits.Keywords: Green economy; Gender; Policies; Strategies; ICT; Zambia
Palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia: An uncommon adverse effect of everolimus
Authors: Arora Shalabh , Akhil Rajendra , Chacko Raju Titus , George Renu
Published: April 2016

Mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitor everolimus is a novel agent used in endocrine therapy resistant hormone receptor positive metastatic breast cancer. Its use has been associated with clinically significant improvement in the otherwise dismal outcomes of this subset of patients. Rash is a common adverse effect associated with everolimus. However, Hand-foot syndrome is an uncommon toxicity with the use of this drug. We report a case of Grade 3 hand-foot syndrome following institution of everolimus therapy and describe its successful management.
Single Component Multiphase Lattice Boltzmann Method for Taylor/Bretherton Bubble Train Flow Simulations
Authors: Dzikowski Michał , Łaniewski-Wołłk Łukasz , Rokicki Jacek
Published: April 2016

In this study long bubble rising in a narrow channel was investigated using multiphase lattice Boltzmann method. The problem is known as a Bretherton or Taylor bubble flow [2] and is used here to verify the performance of the scheme proposed by [13]. The scheme is modified by incorporation of multiple relaxation time (MRT) collision scheme according to the original suggestion of the author. The purpose is to improve the stability of the method. The numerical simulation results show a good agreement with analytic solution provided by [2]. Moreover the convergence study demonstrates that the method achieves more than the first order of convergence. The paper investigates also the influence of simulation parameters on the interface resolution and shape.
Survey of forest conservation features in Benue state, Nigeria
Authors: Agbidye FS , Tee FC , Tee NT
Published: April 2016

The survey investigated the forest conservation features in Benue State, Nigeria, to provide baseline information for improved forest conservation efforts in the State. Multi-stage sampling technique was used to select 10 out of 23 Local Government Areas (LGAs) of the State for the study. Three hundred respondents from 150 households in the 10 LGAs were selected and interviewed using semi-structured questionnaire. Data obtained were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). Five forest conservation features (forests, special objects, rivers, hills and shrines/sacred groves) were recognized among the three ethnic groups studied. Twenty (20) conservation features were identified in Tiv land, 19 in Idoma land and 12 in Igede land. Apart from rivers and special objects, no significant differences (p>0.05) were observed in the mean number of respondents that recognized these forest conservation features across the ethnic groups studied. It was recommended that the conservation features in the State should be promoted and developed for more effective conservation of forest resources in Benue State.Keywords: Conservation Features, Multi-stage, Hills, Rivers, Shrines, Sacred Groves
An assessment of the profitability of fish production systems in Ovia North East Local Government Area, Edo State, Nigeria
Authors: Alufohai GO , Ekunwe PA , Smith JO
Published: April 2016

The study examined the profitability of fish production system in Ovia North East Local Government Area of Edo State, Nigeria. The objectives of the study are to examine the socioeconomic characteristics of the fish farmers, estimate the profitability of the various fish production systems and identify the problems facing fish farmers in the study area. A combination of purposive and Snowball sampling procedure was used in selecting 70 fish farmers. Structured questionnaire and interview schedule were used to collect the primary data and were subjected to descriptive statistics, gross margin and profitability analysis. The study revealed that the mean age of the respondents was approximately 36 years while majority (76 %) of the respondents were males with. average household size of 5 persons while about 51 % of the respondents were single. On the average, the farming experience of the respondents was about 11 years. The result shows that 20 % of the respondents used earthen pond production system while 51 % used concrete pond. The results also showed that earthen pond fish users had on the average a total revenue of  ₦475/kg of fish, concrete tank users had about  ₦483.33/kg of fish as total revenue, plastic tank users had about  ₦491.67/kg of fish, tarpaulin tank users had an average revenue of  ₦440/kg of fish, while farmers that combine both concrete and plastic and those that combine both concrete and tarpaulin had a total revenue of  ₦500/kg of fish and  ₦450/kg of fish respectively. The results also showed that fish production was profitable in the production systems. Earthen pond fish users, concrete pond users, plastic pond users, Tarpaulin pond users, concrete and plastic pond users and concrete and tarpaulin pond users had net profits of  ₦311.43,  ₦264.46, ₦304.29,  ₦353.87,  ₦277.97 and  ₦261.40. There is no significant difference between the profits earned in the various fish production systems at 5 % level of significance. The major constraints affecting the economic status of the respondents were inadequacy of sufficient funds, high cost of quality feed and unavailability of labour. It was recommended that catfish farmer in the study area can adopt any method of production and still make reasonable profit.Keywords: Fish production Systems, Gross margin and Profitability
Students’ perception of teachers’ effectiveness and their academic performance in agricultural sciences in Calabar South Local Government Area, Cross River State
Authors: Ekereuke EO
Published: April 2016

This study was designed to find out students’ perception of teachers’ effectiveness and how it affects students’ performance in Agricultural Sciences. The study was carried out in four randomly selected secondary schools in Calabar South Local government Area of Cross River state, Nigeria. The research formulated three hypotheses. A questionnaire and a thirty – item objective test in Agricultural Science were prepared and administered to Senior Secondary two students of selected schools, numbering, 300. The data collected were subjected to statistical analysis using Pearson Product Moment Correlation. The analysis of data revealed that there is no significant linear relationship between students’ rating of teachers’ effectiveness in teaching methods and students’ academic performance in Agricultural Science. Also, students’ rating of teachers’ effectiveness in knowledge of subject matter and students’ academic performance in Agricultural Science do not significantly relate. There is also no significant relationship between students’ rating of teachers’ attitude to students and students’ academic performance in Agricultural Science. Based on the findings, it was concluded that the teachers should vary their teaching methods to cater for individual differences and needs of the students. It was recommended that teachers should always update their knowledge of subject matter, encourage a threat-free interaction with students, and acquire diverse effective communication and motivational skills.Keywords: Teaching effectiveness, perception, academic performance
Effects of inclusion of varying levels of three natural spices on the mineral composition and organoleptic properties of West African soft unripened cheese (“WARA”)
Authors: Ogunleke FO , Akinsoyinu AO
Published: April 2016

This study was carried out to evaluate the effect of inclusion of 1%, 2% and 3% bearberry, ginger and onion extracts on the mineral composition and organoleptic properties of cheese. Data obtained were subjected to analysis of variance using a 3x3 factorial arrangement in a Completely Randomised Design.West African Soft Unripened cheese was prepared using 7.5ml Calotropis procera in 500ml of milk . The mineral content of the various cheese samples were determined using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS). A total of twenty (20) respondents were used for sensory evaluation which was carried out on a hedonic scale of 1-9.The results showed that the mineral content of cheese was enhanced by the various inclusion levels of bear berry, ginger and onion. The control consistently had lower values of Ca, PO4, Fe, Mg and Zn. However, organoleptic studies showed that addition of varying levels of bear berry, ginger and onion did not improve the colour, texture, flavor, taste, aroma and general acceptability of cheese. Similar (P>0.05) colour and taste scores of 7.56 and 6.98, 6.91 and 6.40, 7.00 and 6.36, 7.01 and 6.11 were obtained for the control, 1%, 3% bearberry and 3% ginger respectively. All the cheese samples were similarly acceptable except 2% onion which had a significantly (P<0.05) lower score (6.21) than the control. It was concluded and recommended that production and consumption of cheese produced with 1%, 2% and 3% bearberry and ginger and 1% and 3% onion be encouraged as addition of these levels of spices to cheese improved the mineral content of cheese, though it did not enhance its organoleptic properties.Keywords: Cheese, minerals, organoleptic properties, bearberry, ginger, onion
Profitability of Clerodendrum volubile (eweta) , a non-timber forest product, in Okitipupa, Ondo State, Nigeria
Authors: Faleyimu OI , Osaze D
Published: April 2016

The study assessed the profitability of Clerodendrum volubile (eweta), a Non-Timber Forest product, in Okitipupa, Ondo State Nigeria. Purposive and simple random sampling techniques were used in the selection of markets and respondents. The sample size was 60 and instrument of data collection was structured and pre-tested questionnaires. The result showed that the enterprise is profitable with a marketing margin of N57, 412 and net returns of N45,604. The benefit cost ratio was 1.74:1. It is recommended that intensive propaganda and awareness should be mounted by the agricultural extension agent on the control of the market so as to attract more farmers on the eweta cultivation and marketing.Keywords: Non-wood forest product, vegetable, profitability
Technical efficiency among the food crop farmers in Rivers State Nigeria- a stochastic frontier approach
Authors: Anyanwu SO , Olatunji SO
Published: April 2016

This study estimated technical efficiency and isolated determinants of technical inefficiency among food crop farmers in Rivers State, Nigeria. The data was collected with structured questionnaire from 180 food crop farmers randomly selected from 10 out of the 15 upland LGAs that make up Rivers State. A stochastic frontier production function was estimated by using the maximum likelihood estimation technique to obtain the technical efficiency of food crop farmers. The mean technical efficiency was 73 percent. The generalized likelihood test indicated that, the food crop farmers were not fully technically efficient in resource use. The determinants of technical inefficiency among the food crop farmers were extension contact and cooperative membership. There is 27 percent allowance to increase technical efficiency by implementing policies geared towards encouraging food crop farmers to join cooperative societies. This could be achieved by skewing credit liberalization in favour of food crop farmers who are members of cooperative societies. Furthermore, stepping up of extension contacts through the training of more extension agents among others is expected to increase the prevailing level of technical efficiency among food crop farmers in Rivers State, Nigeria.Keywords: Technical, efficiency; stochastic frontier; food, crop
Latitudinal variability of the quasi-16-day wave in the middle atmosphere over Brazilian stations
Authors: Guharay Amitava , Batista Paulo Prado , Clemesha Barclay Robert , Buriti Ricardo Arlen , Schuch Nelson Jorge
Published: April 2016

Abstract. A comparative study of the quasi-16-day wave (QSDW) in the middle atmosphere using meteor radar observations and reanalysis data from three Brazilian stations, Sao Joao do Cariri (7.4° S, 36.5° W) (CA), Cachoeira Paulista (22.7° S, 45° W) (CP), and Santa Maria (29.7° S, 53.7° W) (SM) has been carried out in the year 2005 to delineate its latitudinal variability characteristics. The broad spectral behavior around 16-day periodicity may indicate multiple modes of the concerned wave component. The wave amplitude shows a number of peaks over the year with the largest one in summer and winter in the case of mesosphere–lower thermosphere (MLT) and stratosphere, respectively. A potential coupling of the concerned wave with other short period planetary waves, especially at CA and CP is evinced. Although zonal propagation exhibits both eastward as well as westward waves there is a general preference of eastward waves at mid-latitude and westward waves at tropical latitudes. The prevailing westerly background wind in the middle atmosphere is conceived to favor the wave filtering of westward propagating Rossby waves at lower latitude.
Motives and Obstacles of Using Internet as A Source for Learning By The Students of Human Sciences at the World Islamic Science & Education University( WISE)
Authors: Alyousef Mohammed Bader
Published: April 2016

The study aimed at revealing the motives and the obstacles of using internet as a source of
learning by the human colleges at WISE. And to achieve the study’s goals , a questionnaire
was developed consisting of 40 items; 20 items addressed motives of using internet as source
of learning and other 20 items addressed obstacles of using internet as a source of learning .
The sample of the study which consisted of 520 male and female students was selected
randomly in the second semester for 2012/2013. After data were collected, they were
analyzed using descriptive methods, t-test and ANOVA. Results showed the motives of using
internet ranged from high degree to moderate. The degrees of obstacles facing using internet
were moderate.
The researcher recommended the necessity of activating the students’ use of internet with
their teachers’ guidance, facilitating the use of internet by increasing the number of computer
labs and supervisors, in addition to provide flexible and easy electronic programs for studying
university courses.
Challenges and Solutions to Higher Education Institutions in Africa
Authors: Drape Tiffany A. , Rudd Rick , Lopez Megan , Radford Donna
Published: April 2016

The purpose of this study was to explore ways that higher education institutes (HEI’s) that
offered agriculture education and training (AET) in their curriculum could change the behavior
to improve the quality of education offered to students. Faculty at a regional conference in
Africa participated in a daylong focus group workshop aimed at addressing these needs and
offering solutions that could be implemented immediately. Using the theory of planned
behavior as a guide, participants discussed the challenges and solutions they saw at their
institutions and the amount of time it would take to implement changes. A qualitative analysis
was conducted using a codebook to analyze various pieces of data that included video clips and
artifacts created by the participants at the workshop. Results from the analysis were split in
two main themes, challenges or solutions. The main challenges included access to higher
education and lack of preparation at the primary and secondary level of school. The main
solutions proposed were to restructure the leadership and offer more training to faculty
through mentoring programs. These results can guide higher education initiatives for
agriculture education and training as well as other discipline areas in higher education.
Determining the Views of Pre-School Children and Their Parents Regarding Museums: Safranbolu Case
Authors: Ceylan Sehnaz , Kilinc Nida
Published: April 2016

The purpose of this study was to determine preschoolers’ and their families’ perceptions of the museum. Participant of the study included 20 children under the age of 5 studying in preschools and their families in 2014-2015 academic years. A semi-structured interview form developed by researchers based on the conceptual framework was used to gather data. Pre-test and posttest were conducted to determine preschoolers’ perceptions of museum. The interview form was first examined via SPSS 15 Windows Packet and frequencies of families’ perceptions of museum, percentage values and content analysis were conducted to analyze the data. Context analysis was used to find out the perceptions of children about museum. The results of the study shed light on preschoolers’ perceptions of museum.
APLICAÇÃO DE AIB E TIPO DE MINIESTACAS NA PRODUÇÃO DE MUDAS DE Handroanthus heptaphyllus Mattos
Authors: Freitas Taiane Pires de , Barroso Deborah Guerra , Lamônica Kelly Ribeiro , Carvalho Giovanna Campos Mamede Weiss de
Published: April 2016

http://dx.doi.org/10.5902/1980509821128O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o efeito do tipo de miniestacas e a necessidade de aplicação de ácido indolbutírico sobre o enraizamento e qualidade das mudas formadas de Handroanthus heptaphyllus. As miniestacas apicais e intermediárias foram obtidas em minijardim multiclonal formado a partir de sementes. As miniestacas foram preparadas com 5 cm de comprimento, um par de folhas reduzidas a 50% da área foliar e estaqueadas sem e com AIB na concentração de 8000 mg L-1. As avaliações foram realizadas aos 30 dias, na expedição do setor de enraizamento e aos 120 dias, quando a muda se encontrava formada. O experimento foi conduzido em delineamento inteiramente casualizado, em esquema fatorial 3 x 2 x 2 (três épocas de coleta, duas concentrações de AIB e duas posições do propágulo), com quatro repetições, sendo 12 miniestacas por repetição. De acordo com os resultados, o AIB não foi necessário para o enraizamento das miniestacas, entretanto, sua utilização promove incremento do número e comprimento de raízes. As miniestacas intermediárias proporcionaram maior massa seca de raízes aos 30 dias após o estaqueamento, e aos 120 dias, maior número de folhas e de raízes. A época de coleta influenciou a qualidade final das mudas. Aquelas produzidas na última coleta (oitavo) apresentaram valores médios inferiores nas características biométricas, exceto para o comprimento e número de raízes de primeira ordem.
A crab swarm at an ecological hotspot: patchiness and population density from AUV observations at a coastal, tropical seamount
Authors: Pineda Jesús , Cho Walter , Starczak Victoria , Govindarajan Annette F. , Guzman Héctor M. , Girdhar Yogesh , Holleman Rusty C. , Churchill James , Singh Hanumant , Ralston David K.
Published: April 2016

A research cruise to Hannibal Bank, a seamount and an ecological hotspot in the coastal eastern tropical Pacific Ocean off Panama, explored the zonation, biodiversity, and the ecological processes that contribute to the seamount’s elevated biomass. Here we describe the spatial structure of a benthic anomuran red crab population, using submarine video and autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) photographs. High density aggregations and a swarm of red crabs were associated with a dense turbid layer 4–10 m above the bottom. The high density aggregations were constrained to 355–385 m water depth over the Northwest flank of the seamount, although the crabs also occurred at lower densities in shallower waters (∼280 m) and in another location of the seamount. The crab aggregations occurred in hypoxic water, with oxygen levels of 0.04 ml/l. Barcoding of Hannibal red crabs, and pelagic red crabs sampled in a mass stranding event in 2015 at a beach in San Diego, California, USA, revealed that the Panamanian and the Californian crabs are likely the same species,Pleuroncodes planipes, and these findings represent an extension of the southern endrange of this species. Measurements along a 1.6 km transect revealed three high density aggregations, with the highest density up to 78 crabs/m2, and that the crabs were patchily distributed. Crab density peaked in the middle of the patch, a density structure similar to that of swarming insects.
Jaw anatomy ofPotamogale velox(Tenrecidae, Afrotheria) with a focus on cranial arteries and the coronoid canal in mammals
Authors: Brocklehurst Robert J. , Crumpton Nick , Button Evie , Asher Robert J.
Published: April 2016

Afrotheria is a strongly supported clade within placental mammals, but morphological synapomorphies for the entire group have only recently come to light. Soft tissue characters represent an underutilized source of data for phylogenetic analysis, but nonetheless provide features shared by some or all members of Afrotheria. Here, we investigate the developmental anatomy ofPotamogale velox(Tenrecidae) with histological and computerized tomographic data at different ontogenetic ages, combined with osteological data from other mammals, to investigate patterns of cranial arterial supply and the distribution of the coronoid canal.Potamogaleis atypical among placental mammals in exhibiting a small superior stapedial artery, a primary supply of the posterior auricular by the posterior stapedial artery, and the development of vascular plexuses (possibly with relevance for heat exchange) in the posterior and dorsal regions of its neck. In addition, the posterior aspect of Meckel’s cartilage increases its medial deflection in larger embryonic specimens as the mandibular condyle extends mediolaterally during embryogenesis. We also map the distribution of the coronoid canal across mammals, and discuss potential confusion of this feature with alveoli of the posterior teeth. The widespread distribution of the coronoid canal among living and fossil proboscideans, sirenians, and hyracoids supports previous interpretations that a patent coronoid canal is a synapomorphy of paenungulates, but not afrotherians as a whole.
Plagiarism Detector: Assessing Quality of Undergraduate Teacher Education Researches
Authors: Cabahug Jerr A. , Etcuban Jonathan O. , Jala Liza Lorena C. , Gimena Judy Ann F.
Published: April 2016

The study assessed the quality of undergraduate researchers of the College of Teacher Education of one of the leading universities in Cebu from School Year 2008 to 2012.   Also, the study determined the percentage ratings of plagiarism and identified sources of plagiarism in the research specimens.   The study utilized documentary analysis to elicit information on the extent of piracy.   The researchers used stratified sampling to select 41 research samples.    The researchers used frequency counts, percentage, and average growth rate to gather information from the research specimens.  The findings suggested that plagiarism is increased by 28% every year.   Furthermore, the results showed that there were a significant number of validated cases of plagiarism on the research specimens.  Also, the findings showed that undergraduate students get more information from the non–authoritative source than from reliable sources of information.   The study recommended the acquisition of plagiarism detector software that is necessary for assessing the quality of undergraduate researchers.     Keywords-Education, Undergraduate Research, plagiarism, sources of piracy, plagiarism detector software, descriptive design, Philippines
Unlocking Problem Solving Difficulties of Teacher Education Students
Authors: Pascua Arnold T.
Published: April 2016

Problem-solving is often associated with word problems that do not focus only the content knowledge but also on the ability of students to analyze the problem and apply appropriate strategy to arrive at the correct answer. This research used descriptive design to analyze the problem-solving abilities of the Bachelor of Elementary Education III students of the Isabela State University- Cauayan Campus for the SY 2011- 2012. The research used a teacher-made test. Frequency and percentage were employed to analyze data regarding sources of the difficulty of the students. Results showed that some students had a difficulty in representing the problem. A student who successfully represented the problem managed to produce the correct equation and eventually solve the problem correctly. The difficulty of the students lies in representing the unknown quantities. A proportion of those who did not make any attempts to represent the problem and those who did not correctly represent the problem can also produce correct equation by using the word matching approach. However, this approach is not applicable when the problem is using a less inconsistent problem that can be seen in the number problem. Some students with difficulty in solving equations were very minimal.   Keywords-Mathematics, difficulty, problem-solving test, Isabela, Philippines
The World’s Leader in the Palm Oil Industry: Indonesia
Authors: Sequiño Agnes C. , Magallon-Avenido Jessica
Published: April 2016

Indonesia, being the world leader in the production of crude palm oil, has been successful in serving the domestic and world market with palm products and palm derivatives. The industry contributes US$17.6 billion through exports in 2012. At present, the demand for crude palm oil has soared high due to the increasing awareness of the varied uses of palm oil.The challenge to countries cultivating oil palm is how to cope with the local and global demand.The focus now is to increase plantation areas to produce a higher volume of crude oil to serve the needs of the world market. Today, the total land area planted to oil palm in Indonesia has reached 9.7 million hectares. This study used data mining and Delphi technique.  Data were sourced from public domain websites and several databases. This study determined the gap between production and utilization and to provide information to existing industry players, policy makers, future investors, and would-be entrants to the industry on the latest  trends noting the fast development of the industry not only in Indonesia but also in other Southeast Asian countries. Although Indonesia has been successful in providing the local and international  market with palm oil products and palm derivatives,  it has to benchmark with other palm producing countries to avoid industry stagnation and to intensify diversification particularly in the development of new edible  products to take advantage of the health benefits derived  from the use of  palm oil.
Risk Factors for Natural Cause Mortality in Schizophrenia
Authors: Dickerson Faith , Khan Sabahat , Origoni Andrea , Rowe Kelly , Katsafanas Emily , Harvin Alexander , Yang Shuojia , Yolken Robert
Published: September 2024

Importance

Schizophrenia is associated with premature mortality from mostly natural causes. Decreased cognitive functioning has been identified as a determinant of mortality in the general population. However, there have been few prospective studies of this issue in persons with schizophrenia.

Objective

To examine whether lower cognitive functioning is a risk factor for natural cause mortality in schizophrenia.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This prospective cohort study included persons with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder enrolled between February 1, 1999, and December 31, 2022, at a nonprofit psychiatric system in Baltimore, Maryland. Participants were evaluated using the Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status (RBANS) and other clinical measures.

Exposure

Natural cause mortality.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Associations of cognitive function, obesity, tobacco smoking, and medical conditions with natural cause mortality were evaluated using Cox proportional hazards regression models.

Results

Of the 844 participants enrolled (mean [SD] age, 39.6 [12.1] years; 533 male [63.2%]), 158 (18.7%) died of natural causes during a median follow-up of 14.4 years (range, 7.0 days to 23.9 years). The most significant factor associated with mortality was lower cognitive functioning as measured by the RBANS (Cox coefficient, −0.04; 95% CI, −0.05 to −0.03; z = −5.72; adjusted P < .001). Additional factors independently associated with mortality included the diagnosis of an autoimmune disorder (hazard ratio [HR], 2.86; 95% CI, 1.83-4.47; z = 4.62; adjusted P < .001), tobacco smoking (HR, 2.26; 95% CI, 1.55-3.30; z = 4.23; adjusted P < .001), diagnosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (HR, 3.31; 95% CI, 1.69-6.49; z = 3.48; adjusted P = .006), body mass index as a continuous variable (HR, 1.06; 95% CI, 1.02-1.09; z = 3.30; adjusted P = .01), diagnosis of a cardiac rhythm disorder (HR, 2.56; 95% CI, 1.40-4.69; z = 3.06; adjusted P = .02), and being divorced or separated (HR, 1.80; 95% CI, 1.22-2.65; z = 2.97; adjusted P = .02). An RBANS score below the 50th percentile displayed a joint association with being a smoker, having an elevated body mass index, and having a diagnosis of an autoimmune or a cardiac rhythm disorder.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this prospective cohort study, lower cognitive functioning was a risk factor for natural cause mortality in schizophrenia. Efforts should be directed at methods to improve cognitive functioning, particularly among individuals with additional risk factors.
A Needle in a Haystack: Landscape Survey and Archaeological Detection Experiments in Apalachee Bay
Authors: Fitch Simon , Cook Hale Jessica
Published: September 2024

This paper presents the results of a pilot landscape‐scale seismic survey undertaken in Apalachee Bay, Florida, across a submerged landscape that contains dozens of Pre‐Contact sites. In addition to the goals of improving the geophysical and remote sensing ground model for this submerged landscape, the survey also sought to undertake the first independent scientific test of the contentious ‘HALD’ methodology, an acoustic resonance method that it is claimed to identify knapped lithic artefacts at and/or below the seabed through the identification of distinct ‘haystack’ responses. The results of this work indicate that the HALD method, as currently described, produces results that could not be scientifically replicated in this survey. We conclude that any HALD ‘haystack’ signal should therefore not be considered as an example of detection of human‐modified lithic material but rather as a geophysical anomaly that requires additional constraints before it can be used to reliably identify human‐modified lithic materials. Thus, although the authors note that laboratory studies have successfully produced an acoustic signal in human‐modified lithics, the field‐based methods remain yet to be reliably determined. In addition to these results, the landscape mapping survey also recorded valuable information on buried and previously unrecorded landscape features that have archaeological significance and that may guide future site prospection. We therefore conclude that despite the results of the HALD test, the well‐preserved submerged landscape of Apalachee Bay region provides a highly useful testing ground for methods that can be deployed elsewhere globally.
Combined effects of vitamin D3 and dioxopiperidinamide derivative on lipid homeostasis, inflammatory pathways, and redox imbalance in non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease in vivo zebrafish model
Authors: Dharshan Santhanam Sanjai , Ramamurthy Karthikeyan , Kaliraj Salamuthu , Manikandan Krishnan , Chitra Vellapandian , Rajagopal Rajakrishnan , Alfarhan Ahmed , Namasivayam S.Karthick Raja , Kathiravan Muthu Kumaradoss , Arockiaraj Jesu
Published: September 2024

Liver damage and metabolic dysfunctions, the defining features of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), are marked by inflammation, oxidative stress, and excessive hepatic fat accumulation. The current therapeutic approaches for NAFLD are limited, necessitating exploring novel treatment strategies. Dioxopiperidinamide derivatives, particularly DOPA‐33, have shown effective anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant properties, potentially offering therapeutic benefits against NAFLD. This study investigated the combined potential of vitamin D3 (Vit D3) and DOPA‐33 in treating NAFLD. The network pharmacology analysis identified key NAFLD targets modulated by Vit D3 and DOPA‐33, emphasizing their potential mechanisms of action. In NAFLD‐induced zebrafish models, Vit D3 and DOPA‐33 significantly reduced hepatic lipid accumulation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis, demonstrating superior efficacy over individual treatments. The treatment also lowered reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, decreased liver damage, and enhanced antioxidant defense mechanisms. Moreover, behavioral analyses showed improved locomotion and reduced weight gain in treated zebrafish. Biochemical analyses revealed lower triglycerides (TG) and glucose levels with improved oxidative markers. Furthermore, histological analyses indicated reduced hepatic steatosis and inflammation, with decreased expression of lipogenesis‐related genes and inflammatory mediators. Finally, high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) confirmed a significant reduction in hepatic cholesterol levels, indicating the effectiveness of the combination therapy in addressing key NAFLD‐related dyslipidemias. These findings suggest that Vit D3 + DOPA‐33 targets pathways involved in lipid metabolism, inflammation, and oxidative stress by offering a promising therapeutic approach for NAFLD.
Enhancing quality control of polyethylene in industrial polymerization plants through predictive multivariate data‐driven soft sensors
Authors: Jani Farzad , Hosseini Shahin , Sepahi Abdolhannan , Afzali Seyyed Kamal , Torabi Farzad , Ghorbani Rooholla , Houshmandmoayed Saeed
Published: September 2024

Measuring polyethylene properties in the laboratory is time‐consuming and usually unavailable in real‐time, posing significant challenges for controlling product quality in polymerization plants. This research focuses on developing multivariate data‐driven soft sensors for online monitoring and prediction of key characteristics. The targeted properties for prediction include the melt flow index (MFI), density, and average particle diameter in the gas‐phase fluidized bed reactor, as well as the MFI and flow rate ratio (FRR) in the slurry‐phase process. We conducted an exhaustive examination using an ensemble learning approach to quantify the impact of process variables on the model's responses. Various machine learning (ML) algorithms were trained and validated using datasets from industrial ethylene polymerization plants. The precision of the ML models was improved by splitting the datasets into categories comprising high and low MFI and FRR, as well as linear low‐density and high‐density clusters. Then, segmented ML models were developed for each cluster. The results demonstrated that the segmented ML models utilizing optimized Gaussian process regression models with suitable kernel functions and ensemble bagged tree models offered the highest accuracy in predicting the MFI, FRR, and density. Additionally, the comprehensive ML model without clustering, utilizing Gaussian process regression with an isotropic exponential kernel function, proved to be the most effective at predicting the average particle diameter.
A technique for continuous crystallization of high‐quality ammonium polyvanadate: Crystallization mechanism and simulation of deflector tube baffle crystallizer
Authors: Jiang Ting , Wang Jin , Qin Yuhan , Hu Chao , Ma Yue , Yang Lin , Kong Xingjian , Wei Linsen
Published: September 2024

This study introduces a novel technology for continuous vanadium precipitation, aiming to resolve issues such as poor stack density, small particle size, and irregular morphology of ammonium polyvanadate in traditional intermittent processes. In this research, we optimized the process parameters for continuous vanadium precipitation and investigated the mechanism of continuous ammonium polyvanadate crystallization using the focused beam reflectometer measurement. Results showed that small, flaky ammonium polyvanadate particles initially formed between 0 and 12 min. These particles subsequently interlayered and aggregated, resulting in larger particles from 13 to 23 min. By 24 to 60 min, a dynamic equilibrium was reached in crystal growth, aggregation, de‐embedding, and fragmentation. Kinetic analyses demonstrated that increasing the reaction temperature shifted crystal growth from surface reaction control to diffusion control. At higher temperatures, explosive nucleation of ammonium polyvanadate, crystal fragmentation, and dissolution occurred. By integrating the crystallization mechanism, we produced dense ellipsoidal ammonium polyvanadate particles with a stacking density of 0.772 g/cm3 and an average size of 107.04 μm under optimal conditions, achieving a vanadium precipitation rate exceeding 99.0%. Simulation results confirmed that the deflector tube baffle crystallizer enabled continuous crystallization of ammonium polyvanadate, ensuring an average residence time of over 10 min for particles of 50 and 100 μm, facilitating their growth to at least 100 μm. This research provides data and theoretical support for the industrial application of continuous vanadium precipitation.
Switch Capacitor–Based High Step‐Up Three‐Port DC–DC Converter for Fuel Cell/Battery Integration
Authors: Bai Liyin , Qi Zhidong , Zhou Xuanhao , Chu Kaihui
Published: September 2024

Addressing issues of low input voltage in new energy generation systems such as fuel cells, a high step‐up three‐port DC–DC converter for fuel cell/battery hybrid power supply system is proposed. The proposed converter is evolved from Boost three‐port converter, and switch capacitor structure and diode capacitor voltage doubling unit are employed to achieve high voltage gain and low voltage stress. The three ports are connected to fuel cell, battery and load respectively, among which the flow of energy is realized. The steady state performance of this converter in various operating states and design of parameter are presented. Primary competitive advantages compared to similar converters include high voltage gain, continuous input current and its feature of common ground. Moreover, control strategy and compensators under three operating modes are designed to achieve stable output voltage and battery protection. Finally, a 100 W experimental prototype with 15 V input voltage and 24 V battery voltage is established to verify the stable and dynamic performance of the proposed converter.
Root and biomass allocation traits predict changes in plant species and communities over four decades of global change
Authors: Messier Julie , Becker‐Scarpitta Antoine , Li Yuanzhi , Violle Cyrille , Vellend Mark
Published: September 2024

Global change is affecting the distribution and population dynamics of plant species across the planet, leading to trends such as shifts in distribution toward the poles and to higher elevations. Yet, we poorly understand why individual species respond differently to warming and other environmental changes, or how the trait composition of communities responds. Here we ask two questions regarding plant species and community changes over 42 years of global change in a temperate montane forest in Québec, Canada: (1) How did the trait composition, alpha diversity, and beta diversity of understory vascular plant communities change between 1970 and 2010, a period over which the region experienced 1.5°C of warming and changes in nitrogen deposition? (2) Can traits predict shifts in species elevation and abundance over this time period? For 46 understory vascular species, we locally measured six aboveground traits, and for 36 of those (not including shrubs), we also measured five belowground traits. Collectively, they capture leading dimensions of phenotypic variation that are associated with climatic and resource niches. At the community level, the trait composition of high‐elevation plots shifted, primarily for two root traits: specific root length decreased and rooting depth increased. The mean trait values of high‐elevation plots shifted over time toward values initially associated with low‐elevation plots. These changes led to trait homogenization across elevations. The community‐level shifts in traits mirrored the taxonomic shifts reported elsewhere for this site. At the species level, two of the three traits predicting changes in species elevation and abundance were belowground traits (low mycorrhizal fraction and shallow rooting). These findings highlight the importance of root traits, which, along with leaf mass fraction, were associated with shifts in distribution and abundance over four decades. Community‐level trait changes were largely similar across the elevational and temporal gradients. In contrast, traits typically associated with lower elevations at the community level did not predict differences among species in their shift in abundance or distribution, indicating a decoupling between species‐ and community‐level responses. Overall, changes were consistent with some influence of both climate warming and increased nitrogen availability.
Advancing cerebral small vessel disease diagnosis: Integrating quantitative susceptibility mapping with MRI‐based radiomics
Authors: Cheng Zhenyu , Yang Linfeng , Liang Changhu , Li Meng , Li Xianglin , Chen Yiwen , Liang Pengcheng , Wang Yuanyuan , Zhang Xinyue , Wang Na , Gao Yian , Sui Chaofan , Guo Lingfei
Published: September 2024

Cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD) is a neurodegenerative disease with hidden symptoms and difficult to diagnose. The diagnosis mainly depends on clinical symptoms and neuroimaging. Therefore, we explored the potential of combining clinical detection with MRI‐based radiomics features for the diagnosis of CSVD in a large cohort. A total of 118 CSVD patients and 127 healthy controls underwent quantitative susceptibility mapping and 3D‐T1 scans, and all completed multiple cognitive tests. Lasso regression was used to select features, and the radiomics model was constructed based on the regression coefficients of these features. Clinical cognitive and motor tests were added to the model to construct a hybrid model. All models were cross‐validated to analyze the generalization ability of the models. The AUCs of the radiomics and hybrid models in the internal test set were 0.80 and 0.87, respectively. In the validation set, the AUCs were 0.77 and 0.79, respectively. The hybrid model demonstrated higher decision efficiency. The Trail Making Test, which enhances the diagnostic performance of the model, is associated with multiple brain regions, particularly the right cortical nuclei and the right fimbria. The hybrid model based on radiomics features and cognitive tests can achieve quantitative diagnosis of CSVD and improve the diagnostic efficiency. Furthermore, the reduced processing capacity due to atrophy of the right cortical nucleus and right fimbria suggests the importance of these regions in improving the diagnostic accuracy of the model.