bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Incidence of Acute Pulmonary Edema Before and After the Systematic Use of Ultrasound B-Lines
Authors: Urso Alessandra , Tripepi Rocco , Mezzatesta Sabrina , Versace Maria Carmela , Tripepi Giovanni Luigi , Panuccio Vincenzo Antonio
Published: November 2024

Introduction: Acute pulmonary edema (APE) due to fluid overload is considered the most feared complication in hemodialysis patients. Various diagnostic tests have been proposed to assess the fluid status in patients with end-stage kidney failure (ESKF); among these, lung ultrasound (measuring the number of B-lines) is emerging as a promising tool to identify pulmonary congestion in this patient population. Methods: We compared the incidence of APE before and after the implementation of lung ultrasound as a routine practice in our unit. The pre (from 1 January 2007 to 31 December 2008)- and post (from 1 January 2017 to 31 December 2018)-B-line implementation periods included 98 and 108 hemodialysis patients, respectively. By accurately reviewing their electronic medical records, all episodes of APE were collected. The 10-year interval between the two periods was specifically chosen to ensure no overlap between patients of the two cohorts whereas the single-center design was adopted to minimize the influence of center effect on the study results. Results: APE episodes occurred more frequently in patients from the pre-B-line implementation group (18/98, i.e., 18.4%) compared with those from the post B-line implementation group (6/108, i.e., 5.5%) (p = 0.004). An analysis based on repeated APE events showed that the incidence rate of APE was significantly higher during the pre-implementation period (2.0 APE episodes per 100 person-months, 95% CI: 1.4–2.7) than during the post-implementation period (0.3 APE episodes per 100 person-months, 95% CI: 0.1–0.7), with an incidence rate ratio (post- versus pre-) of 0.17 (95% CI: 0.07–0.40; p < 0.001). The odds of experiencing APE episodes were 74% lower (odds ratio: 0.26, 95% CI: 0.10–0.69) in patients from the post B-line implementation period compared with those from the pre-implementation period. Notably, adjusting for potential confounders did not affect the strength of this association, which remained statistically significant (p ≤ 0.030). Finally, dominance analysis indicated that the implementation of B-lines was the primary factor explaining the difference in APE episodes between the two periods, followed by dialysis duration and intra-dialysis weight gain. Conclusions: The systematic use of lung ultrasound (a simple, easy-to-learn, rapid and non-invasive method, easily performed at the patient’s bed) in everyday clinical practice was associated with a drastic reduction in episodes of APE in hemodialysis patients. Further observational and interventional studies are needed to confirm these results.
Online Reviews Meet Visual Attention: A Study on Consumer Patterns in Advertising, Analyzing Customer Satisfaction, Visual Engagement, and Purchase Intention
Authors: Riswanto Aura Lydia , Ha Sujin , Lee Sangho , Kwon Mahnwoo
Published: November 2024

This study aims to bridge the gap between traditional consumer behavior analysis and modern techniques by integrating big data analysis, eye-tracking technology, and survey methods. The researchers considered that understanding consumer behavior is crucial for creating effective advertisements in the digital age. Initially, a big data analysis was performed to identify significant clusters of consumer sentiment from online reviews generated during a recent seasonal promotional campaign. The key factors were identified and grouped into the “Product”, “Model”, “Promo”, and “Effect” categories. Using these clusters as a foundation, an eye-tracking analysis measured visual attention metrics such as the fixation duration and count to understand how the participants engaged with the different advertisement content. Subsequently, a survey assessed the same participants’ purchase intentions and preferences related to the identified clusters. The results showed that the sentiment clusters related to products, promotions, and effects positively impacted the customer satisfaction. The eye-tracking data revealed that advertisements featuring products and models garnered the most visual attention, while the survey results indicated that promotional content significantly influenced the purchase intentions. This multi-step approach delivers an in-depth understanding of the factors that affect customer satisfaction and decision-making, providing valuable information for optimizing marketing strategies in the Korean skincare market. The findings emphasize the importance of integrating consumer sentiment analysis with visual engagement metrics to develop more effective and compelling marketing campaigns.
Construction of Long-Term Grid-Scale Decoupling Model: A Case Study of Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei Region
Authors: Wang Xvlu , Zheng Minrui , Liu Dongya , Wang Peipei , Zheng Xinqi , Ma Yin , Xu Feng , Zhang Xiaoyuan , Rong Tongshuai
Published: November 2024

Against the backdrop of rapid global economic development, the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei (BTH) region, a pivotal economic hub and environmentally sensitive area in China, faces significant challenges in sustaining its landscape ecosystem. Given the region’s strategic importance and vulnerability to environmental pressures, this study investigated the intricate relationships between landscape ecological risk, urban expansion, and economic growth (EG) in the BTH region. Utilizing the landscape as the focal point, we constructed a decoupling model at the grid scale to explore the decoupling relationship between the landscape ecological risk index (ERI), construction area growth (CAG), and EG. The results showed that (1) distinct stages and regional disparities were observed in the trends of ERI, CAG, and EG within the BTH region. The hot and cold spot patterns for these factors did not align consistently. (2) From 1995 to 2019, the coupling relationship between ERI, CAG, and EG in the BTH region underwent a fluctuating transition, initially moving from an undesirable state to an ideal state, and subsequently reverting to an undesirable state. Although the overall trends in these relationships showed some convergence, there were notable spatial distribution differences. (3) The spatial heterogeneity of the two decoupling relationships in the BTH region was relatively poor. Further analysis revealed that the evolution of these decoupling relationships was closely intertwined with regional policy shifts and adjustments.
Gestational Pemphigoid—From Molecular Mechanisms to Clinical Outcomes: A Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Cristescu Miruna Ioana , Tutunaru Cristina Violeta , Panaitescu Anca , Voiculescu Vlad Mihai
Published: November 2024

Gestational pemphigoid is a rare, autoimmune, subepidermal bullous disease with an incidence of 1 in 50,000 pregnancies, displaying itself through pruritic erythema and urticarial papules and plaques that evolve into tense bullae. Histopathological findings consist of subepidermal vesicles with perivascular eosinophils and lymphocytes, and direct immunofluorescence reveals C3 complement and, more rarely, IgG in a linear band along the basement membrane. The course is usually self-limiting within 6 months after delivery but, later, can be triggered by subsequent pregnancies, menstruation, or treatment with oral contraceptives. The newborn can be affected due to the transplacental passage of the maternal immunoglobulins, but, usually, less than 10% of newborns will develop lesions similar to pemphigoid gestationis. The diagnosis and management pose a difficult challenge and should be guided by the severity of the disease. We, therefore, provide a short literature review and discussion plus a case from our clinic, with a typical presentation but a delayed diagnosis and an undulating evolution, with severe manifestations and particularly difficult management due to unexpected complications.
Effects of Repeated Exposure to Ambient Cold on the Development of Inflammatory Pain in a Rat Model of Knee Arthritis
Authors: Kim So-Hee , Sindhuri Vishnumolakala , Koo Min-Jae , Jeon Seung Heon , Kim Seungtae , Koo Sungtae
Published: November 2024

This study investigated the effects of ambient cold exposure on inflammatory pain development, synovial cytokine levels, and spinal cord glial cell activation. Male Sprague–Dawley rats (6 weeks old) were divided into Cold and RT groups. The Cold group was exposed to cold (4 ± 1 °C) for 6 h/day for 5 consecutive days, while the RT group remained at room temperature (22 ± 1 °C). On day 6, knee arthritis was induced via intra-articular carrageenan injection. Pain was assessed by weight-bearing forces (WBFs) of the affected limb. Synovial pro-inflammatory (IL-1 β, IL-6, and TNF-α) and anti-inflammatory (IL-10) cytokines were measured by ELISA, while spinal cord microglia and astrocytes activation were evaluated via immunohistochemistry. WBFs were maximally reduced 4 h post-carrageenan injection, gradually recovering afterward. Cold-exposed rats showed significantly decreased WBF on days 1 and 2 post-injection compared to the RT group. In the Cold group, synovial cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10) were significantly elevated 4 h post-injection, with no change in TNF-α levels. Additionally, OX42-positive cells (microglia) significantly increased 1 h post-injection in the Cold group, while GFAP-positive cells (astrocyte) remained unchanged. Repeated ambient cold exposure enhances inflammatory pain development through the regulation of synovial cytokines and microglia activation in the spinal cord in carrageenan-induced knee arthritis.
Prediction of Early Mortality in Esophageal Cancer Patients with Liver Metastasis Using Machine Learning Approaches
Authors: Sheng Yongxin , Zhang Liyuan , Hu Zuhai , Peng Bin
Published: November 2024

Patients with esophageal cancer liver metastasis face a high risk of early mortality, making accurate prediction crucial for guiding clinical decisions. However, effective predictive tools are currently limited. In this study, we used clinicopathological data from 1897 patients diagnosed with esophageal cancer liver metastasis between 2010 and 2020, which were sourced from the SEER database. Prognostic factors were identified using univariate and multivariate logistic regression, and seven machine learning models, including extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost) and support vector machine (SVM), were developed to predict early mortality. The models were evaluated using Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curves, calibration curves, decision curve analysis (DCA), and F1 scores. Results showed that 40% of patients experienced all-cause early mortality and 38% had cancer-specific early mortality. Key predictors of early mortality included age, location, chemotherapy, and lung metastasis. Among the models, XGBoost performed best in predicting all-cause early mortality, while SVM excelled in predicting cancer-specific early mortality. These findings demonstrate that machine learning models, particularly XGBoost and SVM, can serve as valuable tools for predicting early mortality in patients with esophageal cancer liver metastasis, aiding clinical decision making.
Postprocessing Method for Enhanced Left Ventricular Thrombus Detection in Echocardiography
Authors: Leitman Marina , Tyomkin Vladimir
Published: November 2024

Background and Objectives: The incidence of left ventricular thrombus has decreased in recent years due to advancements in reperfusion strategies for acute myocardial infarction and the use of medications to reduce ventricular remodeling. However, the accurate detection of thrombus remains crucial. Echocardiography is a primary diagnostic tool for thrombus detection, but in cases where the apex of the left ventricle is not clearly visualized, contrast injection is often required for diagnosis. We developed a postprocessing Left Ventricular Thrombus Detection Method (LVTDM) to enhance image details in the region of interest, enabling diagnosis without additional contrast injection. A purpose of our study is the evaluation of Left Ventricular Thrombus Detection Method. Materials and Methods: We analyzed echocardiography video files from 29 patients with apical wall motion abnormalities using LVTDM to identify the presence or absence of thrombus in the left ventricular apex. The results were verified with diagnoses obtained from the same echocardiography examinations following contrast injection. Our method demonstrated a sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 83%, with a negative predictive value of 100% for ruling out thrombus. There was a strong correlation in thrombus detection/ruling out between LVTDM and contrast echocardiography. The Left Ventricular Thrombus Detection Method can be integrated into routine echocardiography examinations to effectively rule out thrombus when the apex is not clearly visualized. The implementation of this method has the potential to reduce the need for contrast injection by approximately half for detecting left ventricular thrombus.
Modulation of Biological Membranes Using Small-Molecule Compounds to Counter Toxicity Caused by Amyloidogenic Proteins
Authors: Seychell Raina Marie , El Saghir Adam , Vassallo Neville
Published: November 2024

The transition of peptides or proteins along a misfolding continuum from soluble functional states to pathological aggregates, to ultimately deposit as amyloid fibrils, is a process that underlies an expanding group of human diseases—collectively known as protein-misfolding disorders (PMDs). These include common and debilitating conditions, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and type-2 diabetes. Compelling evidence has emerged that the complex interplay between the misfolded proteins and biological membranes is a key determinant of the pathogenic mechanisms by which harmful amyloid entities are formed and exert their cytotoxicity. Most efforts thus far to develop disease-modifying treatments for PMDs have largely focused on anti-aggregation strategies: to neutralise, or prevent the formation of, toxic amyloid species. Herein, we review the critical role of the phospholipid membrane in mediating and enabling amyloid pathogenicity. We consequently propose that the development of small molecules, which have the potential to uniquely modify the physicochemical properties of the membrane and make it more resilient against damage by misfolded proteins, could provide a novel therapeutic approach in PMDs. By way of an example, natural compounds shown to intercalate into lipid bilayers and inhibit amyloid–lipid interactions, such as the aminosterols, squalamine and trodusquamine, cholesterol, ubiquinone, and select polyphenols, are discussed. Such a strategy would provide a novel approach to counter a wide range of toxic biomolecules implicit in numerous human amyloid pathologies.
Performance Analysis of Air Gap Membrane Distillation Process Enhanced with Air Injection for Water Desalination
Authors: Ibarra-Bahena Jonathan , Dehesa-Carrasco Ulises , Villalobos-Hernández Rogelio Servando , Garrido-Hoyos Sofía , Rivera Wilfrido
Published: November 2024

Water scarcity is a global issue, and desalination is an alternative to providing fresh water. Renewable energies could be used in thermal desalination to produce freshwater from high saline concentration solutions. In this paper, the experimental performance of an air-injection-Air Gap Membrane Distillation (AGMD) module is presented. The effect of the operation parameters (saline solution temperature, air flow, and salt concentration) on the distilled water rate was evaluated. The air injection enhanced the distilled water rate by 22% at the highest air flow and a solution flow rate of 80 °C, compared to the conventional condition (without air injection) at a salt concentration of 100,000 ppm. Under the same operating conditions, the increase was 17% at a salt concentration of 70,000 ppm. The maximum distilled water rate was 14.10 L/m2·h at 80 °C and an airflow of 1.5 L/min with the highest salt concentration, while it was also 14.10 L/m2·h at the lower salt concentration was 14.10 L/m2·h. The distilled water quality also improved as the air flow increased, since a conductivity reduction of 66% was observed. With the described mathematical model, 94% of the calculated values fell within ±10% of the experimental data for both salt concentration conditions.
The Role of Lipid Metabolism in Dyslipidemias and Atherosclerosis
Authors: Janić Miodrag , Yamashita Shizuya , Su Ta-Chen , Rizzo Manfredi
Published: November 2024

Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease is a major burden of morbidity and, despite recent therapeutic advances, is the leading cause of mortality worldwide [...]
Untargeted Lipidomic Profiling of Amniotic Fluid Reveals Dysregulated Lipid Metabolism in Healthy Normal-Weight Mothers with Fetal Macrosomia
Authors: Haj-Husein Isra’a , Kubow Stan , Koski Kristine G.
Published: November 2024

Background: Alterations in maternal lipid metabolism have been elucidated by several studies in relation to macrosomia. However, the lipidome of the intrauterine compartment associated with macrosomia, particularly in early pregnancy, remains largely unknown. Objectives: (1) To compare the lipidomic profile of early 2nd trimester amniotic fluid (AF) of healthy mothers with normal body mass index who gave birth to large-for-gestational age (LGA) versus appropriate-for-gestational age (AGA) infants; and (2) to examine if insulin and glucose concentrations in AF were associated with the AF lipidomic profile. Methods: In this nested case–control study, bio-banked AF samples were collected from pregnant women undergoing routine amniocentesis at 12–22 weeks of gestation. A subsample of 15 LGA infants (cases) were contrasted with 15 AGA infants (controls). An untargeted lipidomics analysis using liquid chromatography quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry was conducted. Univariate and multivariate statistical analyses (principal component analysis and partial least-squares discriminant analysis) were used to extract differentially abundant (DA) features with high variable importance in projection (VIP) scores. Results: LGA AF was characterized by elevations of 30 phosphatidic acid species. Among other DA features, sphingomyelin (SM 14:0;O2/20:1) had the highest VIP score and was markedly elevated in LGA AF. Neither insulin nor glucose was associated with 2nd trimester AF lipidomic profiles in these healthy, normal-weight mothers. Conclusion: These findings provide evidence of early dysregulated lipid metabolism in healthy, normal-weight mothers with LGA infants.
Unraveling the Gut Microbiota: Implications for Precision Nutrition and Personalized Medicine
Authors: Abeltino Alessio , Hatem Duaa , Serantoni Cassandra , Riente Alessia , De Giulio Michele Maria , De Spirito Marco , De Maio Flavio , Maulucci Giuseppe
Published: November 2024

Recent studies have shown a growing interest in the complex relationship between the human gut microbiota, metabolism, and overall health. This review aims to explore the gut microbiota–host association, focusing on its implications for precision nutrition and personalized medicine. The objective is to highlight how gut microbiota modulate metabolic and immune functions, contributing to disease susceptibility and wellbeing. The review synthesizes recent research findings, analyzing key studies on the influence of gut microbiota on lipid and carbohydrate metabolism, intestinal health, neurobehavioral regulation, and endocrine signaling. Data were drawn from both experimental and clinical trials examining microbiota–host interactions relevant to precision nutrition. Our findings highlight the essential role of gut microbiota-derived metabolites in regulating host metabolism, including lipid and glucose pathways. These metabolites have been found to influence immune responses and gut barrier integrity. Additionally, the microbiota impacts broader physiological processes, including neuroendocrine regulation, which could be crucial for dietary interventions. Therefore, understanding the molecular mechanisms of dietary–microbiota–host interactions is pivotal for advancing personalized nutrition strategies. Tailored dietary recommendations based on individual gut microbiota compositions hold promise for improving health outcomes, potentially revolutionizing future healthcare approaches across diverse populations.
Diseases Caused by and Behaviors Associated with Toxoplasma gondii Infection
Authors: Akins Ginger K. H. , Furtado João M. , Smith Justine R.
Published: November 2024

Toxoplasma gondii is an Apicomplexan parasite that is estimated to infect at least one-third of the global human population. T. gondii infection may be transmitted horizontally or vertically. The main risk factors for transmission to humans are related to diet, especially the consumption of undercooked meat, along with soil contact. In immunocompetent persons, the acute infection may go undetected as it typically produces minor, non-specific symptoms that are self-limited. After infection is established, recurrent retinochoroiditis is the most common clinical disease. In contrast, severe systemic or cerebral toxoplasmosis may be life-threatening for immunocompromised individuals. Furthermore, congenital toxoplasmosis acquired in utero may have devastating consequences if not recognized and promptly treated. A growing body of research has identified associations between latent T. gondii infection, and personality traits and risk-taking behaviors. Other studies have documented associations between latent infection and psychiatric conditions that include schizophrenia and bipolar affective disorder. With no current treatment regimens being curative of T. gondii infection, effective prevention measures at both the public health and individual levels are vitally important.
Study on Bioactive Components of Aromatic Cynanchum thesioides (Freyn) K. Schum by Solvent Fractionation
Authors: Lyu Tao , Kim Woonjung
Published: November 2024

This study evaluated the antioxidant activity of the methanol extract from aromatic Cynanchum thesioides (Freyn) K. Schum. by fractionating it with different solvents, aiming to provide theoretical evidence for the development of products related to aromatic Cynanchum thesioides (Freyn) K. Schum. The yield of the methanol extract was 13.33%, with the water fraction showing the highest yield, followed by n-hexane, n-butanol, dichloromethane, and ethyl acetate. Among these fractions, the ethyl acetate fraction showed the highest antioxidant activity, as indicated by total polyphenol content and ABTS radical scavenging activity. The DPPH radical scavenging activity, reducing power, and SOD-like activity measurements showed no significant difference between the ethyl acetate and n-butanol fractions, as both showed the highest radical scavenging activity. In the FRAP activity measurement, the n-butanol fraction ranked behind the ethyl acetate and dichloromethane fractions in terms of antioxidant activity. Although the ethyl acetate fraction showed the highest antioxidant activity, its yield was only 1.29%, making it unsuitable for product production considering productivity and economy. However, the n-butanol fraction showed overall high antioxidant activity and was approximately four times more abundant, with a yield of 5.80% compared to the ethyl acetate fraction. Consequently, considering both productivity and economy, the n-butanol fraction is considered suitable for product development and production.
Overexpression of the Kiwifruit Transcription Factor AaMYB44 Decreases the Cold Tolerance in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Li Yihang , Lin Miaomiao , Zhang Qina , Zhang Peng , Zhang Zhenzhen , Li Yukuo , Sun Leiming , Li Sumei , Li Congcong , Chen Dixin , Qi Xiujuan
Published: November 2024

Cold stress is one of the main abiotic stresses that affect the development and growth of kiwifruit (Actinidia arguta). Herein, we analyzed the transcriptomic data of A. arguta dormant shoots in response to low-temperature treatment, identified 52 MYB genes, and constructed a phylogenetic tree based on the encoded protein sequences. Then, the effect of one MYB gene on cold tolerance was analyzed. This gene had an open reading frame of 837 bp long and encoded 279 amino acids. Sequence alignment and phylogenetic analysis revealed that this gene belongs to the R2R3-MYB family and was named AaMYB44 based on its homology to other MYB family members. Quantitative real-time PCR revealed that AaMYB44 expression was significantly induced by low temperatures but exhibited the opposite trend in cold-tolerant genotypes. Subcellular localization assays revealed the nuclear localization of the AaMYB44 protein. Furthermore, AaMYB44 was transformed into Arabidopsis thaliana (A. thaliana) via inflorescence infection, and physiological and biochemical tests revealed that the cold resistance and antioxidant capacity of the transgenic A. thaliana were lower than those of wild-type plants. Overall, AaMYB44 might play a negative regulatory role in response to cold stress, providing new insight into the mechanism of cold tolerance.
Adaptive Multi-Function Radar Temporal Behavior Analysis
Authors: Xu Zhenjia , Zhou Qingsong , Li Zhihui , Qian Jialong , Ding Yi , Chen Qinxian , Xu Qiyun
Published: November 2024

The performance of radar mode recognition has been significantly enhanced by the various architectures of deep learning networks. However, these approaches often rely on supervised learning and are susceptible to overfitting on the same dataset. As a transitional phase towards Cognitive Multi-Functional Radar (CMFR), Adaptive Multi-Function Radar (AMFR) possesses the capability to emit identical waveform signals across different working modes and states for task completion, with dynamically adjustable waveform parameters that adapt based on scene information. From a reconnaissance perspective, the valid signals received exhibit sparsity and localization in the time series. To address this challenge, we have redefined the reconnaissance-focused research priorities for radar systems to emphasize behavior analysis instead of pattern recognition. Based on our initial comprehensive digital system simulation model of a radar, we conducted reconnaissance and analysis from the perspective of the reconnaissance side, integrating both radar and reconnaissance aspects into environmental simulations to analyze radar behavior under realistic scenarios. Within the system, waveform parameters on the radar side vary according to unified rules, while resource management and task scheduling switch based on operational mechanisms. The target in the reconnaissance side maneuvers following authentic behavioral patterns while adjusting the electromagnetic space complexity in the environmental aspect as required. The simulation results indicate that temporal annotations in signal flow data play a crucial role in behavioral analysis from a reconnaissance perspective. This provides valuable insights for future radar behavior analysis incorporating temporal correlations and sequential dependencies.
Boosting Point Set-Based Network with Optimal Transport Optimization for Oriented Object Detection
Authors: Yuan Binhuan , Zhi Xiyang , Hu Jianming , Zhang Wei
Published: November 2024

When handling complex remote sensing scenarios, rotational angle information can improve detection accuracy and enhance algorithm robustness, providing support for fine-grained detection. Point set representation is one of the most commonly used methods in arbitrary-oriented object detection tasks, leveraging discrete feature points to represent oriented targets and achieve high accuracy in angle prediction. However, due to the inherent discreteness of point set representation, it is prone to significant impact from isolated points and representational ambiguity in harsh application scenarios, leading to inaccurate detection. To address this issue, an efficient aerial object detector named BE-Det is proposed, which uses the optimal transport (OT) strategy to constrain the positions of isolated points. Additionally, a candidate point set quality evaluation scheme is designed to effectively assess the quality of candidate point sets. Experimental results on two challenging aerial datasets demonstrate that the proposed method outperforms several advanced detection methods.
Quantifying the Effect of Land Use and Land Cover Changes on Spatial-Temporal Dynamics of Water in Hanjiang River Basin
Authors: Xi Hao , Yuan Yanbin , Dong Heng , Zhang Xiaopan
Published: November 2024

As a vital part of the geo-environment and water cycle, ecosystem health and human development are dependent on water resources. Water supply and demand are influenced significantly by land use and cover change (LUCC) which shapes the surface ecosystems by altering their structure and function. Under future climate change scenarios, LUCC may greatly impact regional water balance, yet the impact is still not well understood. Therefore, examining the spatial relationship between LUCC and water yield services is crucial for optimizing land resources and informing sustainable development policies. In this study, we focused on the Hanjiang River Basin and used the patch-generating land use simulation (PLUS) model, coupled with the Integrated Valuation of Ecosystem Services and Tradeoffs (InVEST) model, to assess water yield services under three Shared Socioeconomic Pathway and Representative Concentration Pathway (SSP-RCP) scenarios. For the first time, we considered the impact of future changes in socio-economic and water use indicators on water demand using correction factors and ARIMA projections. The relationship between water supply and demand was explored using this approach, and LUCC’s effects on this balance are also discussed. Results indicate that: (1) The patterns of LUCC are similar for the three scenarios from 2030 to 2050, with varying levels of decrease for cropland and significant growth of built-up areas, with increases of 6.77% to 19.65% (SSP119), 7.66% to 22.65% (SSP245), and 15.88% to 46.69% (SSP585), respectively, in the three scenarios relative to 2020; (2) The future supply and demand trends for the three scenarios of produced water services are similar, and the overall supply and demand risks are all on a downward trend. Water demand continues to decline, and by 2050, the water demand of the 3 scenarios will decrease by 96.275×108t, 81.210×108t, and 84.13×108t relative to 2020, respectively; while supply decreases from 2030 to 2040 and rises from 2040 to 2050; (3) Both water supply and demand distributions exhibit spatial correlation, and the distribution of hotspots is similar. The water supply and demand are well-matched, with an overall supply-demand ratio greater than 1.5; (4) LUCC can either increase or decrease water yield. Built-up land provides more water supply compared to other land types, while forest land has the lowest average water supply. Limiting land use type conversions can enhance the water supply.
Microphysical Characteristics of Precipitation for Four Types of Typical Weather Systems on Hainan Island
Authors: Xiao Wupeng , Zhang Yun , Zheng Hepeng , Wu Zuhang , Xie Yanqiong , Huang Yanbin
Published: November 2024

The microphysical characteristics of precipitation and their differences among four typical weather systems over Hainan Island were investigated via multi-source observations from 2019 to 2023. We find that the cold fronts (CFs) have the greatest concentration of small raindrops, with a more substantial raindrop condensation process. The subtropical highs (SHs), with primarily deep convection and more prominent evaporation at low levels, lead to greater medium-to-large raindrops (diameters > 1 mm). Tropical cyclones (TCs) are characterized mainly by raindrop condensation and breakup, resulting in high concentrations of small raindrops and low concentrations of large raindrops. The trough of low pressures (TLPs) produces the lowest concentration of small raindrops because of evaporation processes. The convective clusters of the SHs are between maritime-like and continental-like convective clusters, and those of the other three types of weather systems are closer to maritime-like convective clusters. The relationships between the shape parameter (μ) and the slope parameter (Λ), as well as between the reflectivity factors (Z) and the rain rates (R), were established for the four weather systems. These results could improve the accuracy of radar quantitative precipitation estimation and the microphysical parameterizations of numerical models for Hainan Island.
Research on the Configuration Optimization of All-Metal Micro Resonant Hemisphere
Authors: Gu Xibing , Su Zhong , Yao Xiangxian , Chu Sirui
Published: November 2024

As the core component of the all-metal micro resonant gyroscope, the structural parameters and form and position errors of the resonator significantly influence its vibration characteristics, and consequently, the accuracy of the gyroscope. By establishing the finite element model of an ideal hemispherical resonator and optimizing the meshing method, we refined the frequency difference to 0.1 Hz, enhancing the accuracy of the simulation model. Through finite element simulation, we examined the impact of various structural parameters and processing errors on the natural frequencies of each mode. We analyzed how form and position errors, including shell thickness error, central axis error, equatorial plane error, and edge rectangular tooth position error, affect the frequency splitting of the resonator. We provided optimization suggestions for the structural parameters, ensuring frequency splitting variations of less than 1 Hz. Theoretical modeling and simulation analysis indicated that the primary factors influencing the vibration modes and frequency splitting are the rectangular tooth structure and shell thickness. Following the optimized parameters, the frequency splitting of the All-Metal Micro Resonant Hemisphere was reduced by an order of magnitude to 14 Hz, demonstrating that these optimized conditions can significantly enhance the resonator’s performance.
Spatial Variability in the Speciation of Lead (Pb) and Other Metals Across Urban Lawns Is Linked to Post-Deposition Weathering Reactions
Authors: Nwoko Chukwudi E. , Singer David M. , Tessin Allyson C. , Izworski Rachel , Heestand Chloe
Published: November 2024

The historical use of lead (Pb) poses ongoing health risks via exposure to contaminated urban soils. However, there is limited information about heterogeneity in Pb speciation and distribution at the house lot scale. This study determined highly spatially resolved Pb and other metal speciation along horizontal transects and vertical soil cores from three homes in the Akron, Ohio (USA) municipal. Solid phase characterization was coupled with a sequential extraction protocol to determine operationally defined speciation (exchangeable (MEX), reducible (MRED), oxidizable (MOX), and residual (MRES)). Lead and Zn were strongly correlated across all fractions (R2 = 0.92). Total extractable Pb and Zn were found in low weight percent concentrations nearest to the homes, and speciation was dominated by MEX and MRED. High Pb in the MEX fraction was correlated with the presence of Pb-bearing paint chips in the soil. Lead in the MEX fraction in soils near the homes decreased with increasing time due to exterior renovations coupled with increases in Pb and Zn in the MRED fraction. These results suggest that homes are the dominant source of Pb and Zn due to the weathering of exterior surfaces and highlight the acute risk of exposure to more labile Pb immediately following exterior renovations and damage to home exteriors in areas of older housing stock.
Enhancing User Experience and Sustainability in Open Banking Using PLS-SEM
Authors: Althinayyan Tala , Alojail Mohammed
Published: November 2024

A framework empowering third-party providers to access individual financial data has revolutionized the financial services landscape. Despite the user-centric nature of FinTech solutions, research on post-adoption behavior remains relatively scarce. Given the pivotal role of FinTech in the modern financial industry, understanding the factors driving sustained adoption and continued usage is crucial. This study aims to explore the key determinants influencing users’ decisions to remain engaged with Open Banking solutions. We propose a model examining the impacts of various factors on user satisfaction and their intention to continue using Open Banking. Partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was employed to validate this model. Our findings reveal that user satisfaction with the usage experience is the sole predictor of continued use intention, explaining 62% of the variance in continuance use intention (R2 = 0.62). Additionally, user satisfaction is influenced by perceived usefulness (β = 0.33, p < 0.001), trust (β = 0.24, p = 0.003), and convenience (β = 0.25, p = 0.006), accounting for 70.5% of the variance in satisfaction (R2 = 0.705). The practical implications of this study suggest that Open Banking providers should prioritize enhancing user satisfaction by improving the perceived usefulness and convenience of their applications while fostering trust to maintain user engagement. Furthermore, our findings emphasize that convenience and trust are critical levers that Open Banking providers can utilize to ensure long-term customer loyalty and adoption, particularly in developing economies.
Social Desirability Bias and the Prevalence of Self-Reported Conservation Behaviour Among Farmers
Authors: Kaine Geoff , Wright Vic
Published: November 2024

Agriculture is recognised globally as a major contributor to environmental degradation, habitat loss, and climate change. Having reliable data on the conservation behaviour of farmers is crucial to the evaluation of policy measures intended to reduce the harmful environmental effects of agriculture and promote sustainability. In responses to direct questions about conservation behaviours, the biasing of responses to appear more socially responsible has been found to be commonplace. From a policy perspective, the degree to which farmers might overstate the frequency with which they engage in behaviours that are desirable from a conservation perspective and understate the frequency with which they engage in behaviours that are undesirable because of social desirability bias is a matter of practical importance. In this paper we use, for the first time, crosswise questioning to investigate the influence of social desirability bias on self-reporting of conservation behaviour by farmers in New Zealand. We found that the effect of social desirability bias on self-reports of conservation behaviour by farmers in New Zealand is small. Consequently, self-reporting of conservation behaviour by farmers may be relied on when evaluating policies intended to promote sustainable development.
Coupled Human and Natural Systems: A Novel Framework for Complexity Management
Authors: Perera Dhanushki , Abunada Ziyad , AlQabany Ahmed
Published: November 2024

Coupled human and natural systems (CHANS) represent dialectic interaction between human and nature subsystems. This dynamic interaction involves a prominent level of complexity stemming from the uncertain interrelation between the systems and the incorporated subsystems. The complexity within CHANS includes reciprocal effects, nonlinearity, uncertainties, and heterogeneity. Although many researchers have highlighted the significance of understanding the nature of the coupling effect, most of the prevailing literature emphasises either human or natural systems separately, while considering the other as exogenous, despite evaluating the reciprocal and complex interrelations. The current review utilises the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). It focuses on synthesising the prevailing literature on the CHANS framework in several disciplines, focusing on the approach, findings, limitations, and implications. The review comprises 56 relevant articles, found through Endnote and Covidence database searches. The findings identify the dominant complexity character as reciprocal effects and feedback loops, confirming the complex interactions between human and natural systems. Furthermore, the review provides evidence surrounding the significance of developing an analytical framework that can better explain the complex connections between humans and nature, as it provides a comprehensive understanding of CHANS and their potential impacts.
Explicit and Implicit Preference for Symmetry Across Object Categories
Authors: Roccato Marco , Contemori Giulio , Campana Gianluca , Bertamini Marco
Published: November 2024

Symmetry affects aesthetic judgements, and it has been extensively studied at least for faces and abstract objects. We examined the role of bilateral symmetry on aesthetic judgements across different types of stimuli. It is important to test if symmetry is equally effective in the context of objects expected to be symmetrical, e.g., faces, and objects that are almost never symmetrical, e.g., landscapes. We used the following categories: angular shapes, smooth shapes, landscapes, flowers, female faces, and male faces. We selected these image categories considering their differing degrees of curvature, familiarity to the viewer, and tendency to be perceived as ensembles, as opposed to standalone objects. We also included blobs, manipulating landscapes into blurry tessellated patterns featuring patches of color, to remove familiarity while preserving the appearance of ensembles. For each item in these categories, images were modified to obtain perfect bilateral symmetry. We collected both explicit ratings and implicit measures of symmetry preference. For landscapes, there was a clear preference for the non-symmetrical (original) version. We observed a dissociation between explicit and implicit measures. Implicit measures demonstrated positive associations for all categories.
Biological Characterization and Evaluation of the Therapeutic Value of Vibrio Phages 4141 and MJW Isolated from Clinical and Sewage Water Samples of Kolkata
Authors: Biswas Sanjoy , Tewari Devendra Nath , Chakrabarti Alok Kumar , Dutta Shanta
Published: November 2024

The growing prevalence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) necessitates the development of new treatment methods to combat diseases like cholera. Lytic bacteriophages are viruses that specifically target and lyse bacteria upon infection, making them a possible treatment option for multi-drug-resistant pathogens. The current study investigated the potential role of bacteriophages isolated from clinical stool and sewage water samples in treating multi-drug-resistant Vibrio cholerae infection, finding that over 95% of the strains were susceptible. Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) analysis revealed that both Vibrio phage 4141 (4141) and Vibrio phage MJW (MJW) contain double-stranded DNA genomes consisting of 38,498 bp (43% GC) and 49,880 bp (42.5% GC) with 46 and 64 open reading frames (ORFs), respectively. Transmission electron microscope (TEM) and WGS analysis of Vibrio phage 4141 and Vibrio phage MJW validated that they are classified under the family Autographiviridae and Zobellviridae, respectively. Furthermore, both the phages showed highly significant biofilm degradation properties. The characterization of the phages and their strict host range, high spectrum of lytic ability, high efficiency of biofilm degradation, and close genetic similarity to the therapeutic phages indicates that these phages may be useful for therapeutic purposes for treating MDR V. cholerae infection in the future.
Alteration of Gene Expression After Entecavir and Pegylated Interferon Therapy in HBV-Infected Chimeric Mouse Liver
Authors: Bao Huarui , Murakami Serami , Tsuge Masataka , Uchida Takuro , Uchikawa Shinsuke , Fujino Hatsue , Ono Atsushi , Murakami Eisuke , Kawaoka Tomokazu , Miki Daiki , Hayes Clair Nelson , Oka Shiro
Published: November 2024

Cross-sectional analyses using liver tissue from chronic hepatitis B patients make it difficult to exclude the influence of host immune responses. In this study, we performed next-generation sequencing using the livers of hepatitis B virus (HBV)-infected uPA/SCID mice with humanized livers before and after antiviral therapy (AVT) with entecavir and pegylated interferon, and then performed a comparative transcriptome analysis of gene expression alteration. After HBV infection, the expression of genes involved in multiple pathways was significantly altered in the HBV-infected livers. After AVT, the levels of 37 out of 89 genes downregulated by HBV infection were restored, and 54 of 157 genes upregulated by HBV infection were suppressed. Interestingly, genes associated with hypoxia and KRAS signaling were included among the 54 genes upregulated by HBV infection and downregulated by AVT. Several genes associated with cell growth or carcinogenesis via hypoxia and KRAS signaling were significantly downregulated by AVT, with a potential application for the suppression of hepato-carcinogenesis.
Prominent Increase in Air Temperatures on Two Small Mediterranean Islands, Lastovo and Lošinj, Since 1998 and Its Effect on the Frequency of Extreme Droughts
Authors: Bonacci Ognjen , Žaknić-Ćatović Ana , Roje-Bonacci Tanja
Published: November 2024

The article analyzes the development of air temperatures and precipitation on two remote islands in the Adriatic Sea from 1961 to 2023, examining annual and monthly time scales. Lastovo Island is located in the southern Adriatic, and Lošinj Island is situated 277 km north, and both exhibit a sharp rise in air temperatures since 1998, though precipitation series show no significant trends of an increase or decrease. Using the New Drought Index (NDI) method, this study calculated drought intensities for the period 1961–2023. The analyses conducted in this study undoubtedly indicate a rising frequency and intensity of droughts, with severe droughts doubling and extreme droughts increasing fourfold in the recent period (1998–2023) compared to the previous one (1961–1997). The most pronounced increase in severe and extreme droughts occurs specifically from June to August. This trend is likely applicable to many small Mediterranean Islands, which number over 10,000 and have a permanent population of more than 1.6 million people, with numbers significantly rising during the tourist season. The increased water demand for agriculture and daily use, combined with increased drought risk, not only exacerbates the potential for forest fires but also threatens social structures and ecological conditions. This is particularly critical as the combination of drier conditions and increased fire risk poses a significant challenge, endangering natural landscapes and valuable historical sites that are integral to the islands’ identity and heritage. This study’s findings indicate a dangerous trend likely to persist and worsen with continued increases in air temperatures in the Mediterranean region.
Emergence of Antibiotic Residues and Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria in Hospital Wastewater: A Potential Route of Spread to African Streams and Rivers, a Review
Authors: Evoung Chandja Wilfried Blandin , Onanga Richard , Mbehang Nguema Pierre Philippe , Lendamba Romeo Wenceslas , Mouanga-Ndzime Yann , Mavoungou Jacques François , Godreuil Sylvain
Published: November 2024

Medicinal activities carried out within hospitals lead to high consumption of antibiotics and subsequently result in a high excretion rate of antibiotic residues. When consumed by humans, these antibiotics are not fully absorbed by the body and are often discharged into the environment along with biological waste from infected human patients. The significant water consumption in hospitals and the pharmaceutical impact on wastewater from healthcare facilities facilitate the emergence and spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) and antibiotic-resistant genes (ARGs) in the environment. Hospital effluents could be doubly involved in the dissemination of antibiotic molecules and multidrug-resistant bacteria in various ecosystems. The aim of this review is to characterize hospital effluents by assessing antibiotic concentrations and the diversity of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in these hospital wastewaters within the environment (aquatic environments; rivers) as well as to inventory the bacteria present and those carrying antibiotic resistance in both hospital wastewater and the environment.