bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mechanism of Action of Curcumin for Rheumatoid Arthritis Based on Machine Learning, Molecular Dynamics and Cellular Experiments
Authors: Xiao Jianwei , Huang Xinmin , Cai Xu , Hong Yiwei , Yan Zhenbo , Chen Xinpeng
Published: June 2024

Objective: Curcumin has been widely used in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) treatment and the previous study also proved its effectiveness. However, the pharmacological mechanism is still not clear. The current study intends to discuss the potential mechanism of action of curcumin in RA treatment through machine learning, network pharmacology, molecular dynamics and cellular experiments.Methods: RA-related microarray data were obtained from three GEO datasets: GSE55235, GSE55457 and GSE77298. Machine learning methods including XGBOOST, LASSO and SVM were adopted to screen out potential targets of RA pathogenesis. Online tools SwissTargetPrediction and Similarity ensemble approach were visited to predict potential targets of action of curcumin. The key target was identified via a Venn diagram and processed for molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation with curcumin. Fibroblast-like synoviocytes (RA-FLSs) were selected to study the effect of curcumin at different concentrations (20, 40 and 80 μmol/L) on cell proliferation and apoptosis using MTT and flow cytometry assays. In addition, Western blot was used to examine the protein level.Results: Arachidonate 5-Lipoxygenase (ALOX5) was identified as a key target of RA following bioinformatics prediction. Results of molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation demonstrated the tight binding between curcumin and ALOX5 with stable function. RA-FLSs intervened with different concentrations of curcumin (20, 40 and 80 mol/L) exhibited decreased potential in proliferation while increased apoptosis, which were in a dose-dependent manner. Additionally, with the increase of curcumin concentration, the protein level of ALOX5 gradually decreased. Conclusion: Curcumin may exert its therapeutic effects in RA treatment via down-regulating the expression of ALOX5.
A Study of Key Factors Influencing the Willingness of RhD-negative Blood Donors to Donate Blood in Chongqing, China, 2017-2019
Authors: Weng Jieqiu , Xie Chengbing , Tian Yunbo , Cheng Ying
Published: June 2024

The importance of RhD-negative blood in clinical blood transfusion is becoming more and more prominent with the continuous advancement of medical technology, but the resources of blood donors are especially precious due to their rarity. As a densely populated area, the recruitment and retention of RhD-negative blood donors in Chongqing Municipality is crucial to ensure clinical blood supply. In this study, a questionnaire survey method was used to collect 1,200 valid questionnaires from RhD-negative blood donors in Chongqing Municipality during 2019-2021 by random sampling. The questionnaires covered the donors' knowledge of RhD-negative blood, knowledge of blood donation policy, motivation to donate blood, experience of blood donation and willingness to donate blood again. The data were statistically analyzed using SPSS software to explore the key factors affecting the willingness to donate blood through descriptive statistics and chi-square test. The results showed that factors such as donors' knowledge of RhD-negative blood, knowledge of blood donation policy, motivation and experience of blood donation significantly affected willingness to donate blood. Therefore, measures such as strengthening the publicity of RhD-negative blood knowledge, improving the blood donation policy, and upgrading the quality of blood donation services are recommended to promote the stable development of the RhD-negative blood donor workforce, to meet the urgent clinical demand for RhD-negative blood, and at the same time to enhance the satisfaction of the donors and the blood donation rate.
Exploring the Triad of Thyroid Dysfunction, Chronic Diarrhea and Anemia
Authors: Hafeez Waqar , Shafqat Zeeshan , Rehman Zia , Din Anas , Khan Muhammad , Ahmad Hassaan
Published: June 2024

Hyperthyroidism, a disorder characterized by excessive thyroid hormone production, typically presents with many symptoms including weight loss, tremors, and heat intolerance. However, in rare instances, it can manifest solely as chronic diarrhea, posing a diagnostic challenge. This case study aims to highlight an unusual presentation of hyperthyroidism and underscore the importance of considering thyroid disease in the differential diagnosis of chronic gastrointestinal symptoms. We present the case of a fifty-year-old woman who, six months prior to her ER visit, had been experiencing severe weight loss and diarrhea along with anemia. Despite her lack of typical hyperthyroidism symptoms, a thorough investigation revealed that hyperthyroidism was the underlying cause of her gastrointestinal issues. This case illustrates that hyperthyroidism can present atypically, solely as chronic diarrhea. The patient's anemia was linked to iron deficiency, worsened by chronic gastrointestinal loss and the hyper metabolic state induced by hyperthyroidism. Treatment of the hyperthyroidism led to significant improvement in her gastrointestinal symptoms and correction of the anemia. This case underscores the critical need to include thyroid disease in the differential diagnosis for patients with chronic diarrhea and weight loss, even in the absence of typical hyperthyroid symptoms. Early recognition and appropriate management of hyperthyroidism can significantly improve patient outcomes by alleviating gastrointestinal manifestations and correcting associated anemia. Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for thyroid dysfunction in patients presenting with unexplained chronic diarrhea and weight loss to ensure timely and accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Development of Pidgin English Hate Speech Classification System for Social Media
Authors: Adegoke Folake , Tenuche Bashir , Agozie Eneh
Published: June 2024

With the widespread use of social media, people from all walks of life—individuals, friends, family, public and private organizations, business communities, states, and entire nations—are exchanging information in various formats, including text, messages, audio, video, cartons, and pictures. Social media also facilitates the distribution and propagation of hate speech, despite the immense benefits of knowledge sharing through these platforms. The purpose of this work was to construct a text-based, Pidgin English hate speech classification system (HSCS) in social media, taking into account the alarming rate at which hate speech is shared and propagated on social media, as well as the negative effects of hate speech on society. We used text data sets in Pidgin English that were taken from Twitter and Facebook (3,153). To train the Support Vector Machine (SVM) text classifier to identify hate speech in Pidgin English, 70% of the Pidgin English data set was annotated. The SVM classifier's performance was tested and assessed using the remaining thirty percent of the Pidgin English text data set. The test set findings' confusion matrix, as determined by the HSCS performance evaluation, was 62.04%, 64.42%, 0.7541, 0.6947, and 0.64 in terms of accuracy, precision, recall, F1-score, and Receiver Operating Characteristics (ROC) curve. When HSCS was compared to other Machine Learning (ML) classifiers, such as Logistic Regression (LR), Random Forest (RF), and Naive Bayes, the results showed that LR had accuracy and precision of 61.51% and 63.89%, RF had 54.88% and 50.65%, and Naive Bayes had 61.51% and 63.89%.
Mobility Management in Next Generation Wireless Networks
Authors: Islam Md. Shohidul , Chowdhury Shah Ariful Hoque
Published: June 2024

Living in a modern society without smart devices is impossible now a days. Every sector related to human lifestyle is either smart or controlled devices which was rare a decade back. Expectations are not limited to network connection but extend to mobility as well. As a result, mobility management becomes an essential and challenging task to accomplish. The revolution in wireless technologies expects more scalability and flexibility in resource management. Handover is one of the vital parts of radio resource management. Execution with perfection and optimization of the handover technique increases the reliability of the system deployed to meet the requirement of high mobility. The cell became small as the wireless cell size adjusted with the revolution of relevant technologies like fifth generation (5G) and beyond. Traffic profile and its density are always in a growing trend. This pattern draws the attention of ultra-dense networks (UDN). The UDN of small cells requires an extra number of handovers with higher accuracy and less delay in execution. In this context, this paper proposed an algorithm where a cross-examination to reduce unnecessary handover that improves the handover performance in next-generation wireless networks.
Abdominal Epilepsy: A Rare Entity Revealed by a Depressive Syndrome
Authors: Karroumi Saadia , Ennaciri Zainab , Adali Imane , Manoudi Fatiha
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Abdominal epilepsy is a rare neurological condition characterized by episodic abdominal pain, often accompanied by epileptic or gastrointestinal symptoms. It remains underdiagnosed due to its atypical presentation and the lack of awareness among healthcare professionals. Case report: The subject of this report is a 23-year-old male with a protracted history of episodic, severe abdominal pain. The pain episodes, characterized by their severity and abrupt onset, were frequently accompanied by vertigo and debilitating headaches, which significantly impacted his quality of life. Despite numerous consultations with various specialists, a definitive diagnosis remained elusive for many years. Discussion: A comprehensive literature review is conducted to gather data on the historical evolution, recent advancements, and management recommendations for abdominal epilepsy. Medical databases are consulted to identify relevant studies, clinical cases, and recent reviews in this field. The discussion explores the clinical implications of the results, emphasizing the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in diagnosing and managing abdominal epilepsy. Conclusion: Diagnostic challenges, therapeutic options, and future perspectives are discussed in detail, highlighting the need for increased awareness of this condition and further research to improve outcomes for patients. Early diagnosis and appropriate management can significantly enhance patient quality of life, underscoring the importance of education and research in this domain.
Management of Abdominal Surgical Emergencies at the Coyah District Hospital (Guinea)
Authors: Ibrahima Oulare , Saliou Bangoura , Bakary Traore , 1 Kourouma , Aly Cisse , Oumar Dioubate , Togba Soumaoro , Housein Fofana , Aboubacar Toure
Published: June 2024

Background: abdominal surgical emergencies remain a frequent mode of admission in African public hospitals, cause of a high morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to assess the management of these diseases in a resources limited hospital. Patients and methods: this was a descriptive cross-sectional study for a period of 2 years from January 2018 to December 2021. Results: 637 patients were selected including 321 males 316 females. The age of the patients ranged from 5 to 79 years old. Abdominal pain was the main reason for consultation (90.11%), with appendicitis the dominant pathology (47.4%). All cases were managed surgically. Postoperative course was simple in 65.8% of cases, with an overall mortality of 13.3%. The average hospital stay was 9.96±6.77 days, with extremes of 3 and 54 days. Conclusion: abdominal surgical emergencies are very common in our practice with appendicitis being the dominant pathology. The mortality still remains considerable in resources limited setting.
Health Disparities and Route of Repair of Fetal Myelomeningocele-Prenatal Versus Postnatal Repair
Authors: Ogunleye Oluseyi , Xia Jason , Cruz Stephanie , Saulsbery Angela , Nicoll Ryan , Schlegel Amy , Etchegaray Adolfo , Sribnick Eric , Olutoye Oluyinka
Published: June 2024

Background: Spina bifida (SB) is a relatively common birth defect with the highest prevalence among Hispanics. A randomized controlled trial (MOMS) demonstrated that prenatal repair yielded improved outcomes compared to postnatal repair. However, the social determinants of health can significantly impact the overall well-being of affected individuals or their eligibility for some of these evidenced-based interventions. Methods: We conducted a retrospective observational study to describe and compare the mean Child Opportunity Index (COIs) scores among patients treated at a free-standing children’s hospital who underwent either prenatal or postnatal repair of SB from January 1st, 2012, to December 31st, 2021. We excluded patients with identifiable maternal and fetal contraindications to prenatal repair, as per the MOMS trial eligibility, apart from those pertaining to socio-economic status. RESULTS: Among a total cohort of 51 fetuses, 86% (n = 44) underwent postnatal repair for SB, while 14% (n = 7) received prenatal repair. Patients who underwent prenatal repair exhibited lower COI scores across all domains (education, health, and environment, social and economic) on national, state, and metro levels compared to the postnatal group. Our cohort showed a higher percentage of primary commercial insurance in the prenatal (fetal) surgery group (57.14%) versus the postnatal surgery group (47.73%), without attaining statistical significance (p=0.25). Conclusion: While COI scores across all domains were lower in the prenatal cohort, our data does not suggest a statistically significant difference between prenatal and postnatal surgery groups. This highlights the need for future studies with larger sample sizes to further explore and define this relationship.
Monitoring and Evaluation Practices: Implication to Education Policy Implementation in Gambella Region, Ethiopia
Authors: Ayele Chala , Bekele Mitiku , Tafasse Mebratu
Published: June 2024

The purpose of the study was to examine the practice of monitoring and evaluation in promoting effective policy implementation in the education sector of the Gambella Regional Sate. It also attempted to identify key challenges facing the current monitoring and evaluation system, and suggests ways to enhance the monitoring and evaluation system in education policy implementation in the region. Case study design was used to conduct the study. Primary data were collected through interview guides that targeted the bureau leader and experts in the Gambella region education bureau. Secondary data were collected through desk reviews. The results showed that the required monitoring, and evaluation framework, for effective monitoring, and evaluation are not in place. It was also found that the Gambella region education bureau has not fully established a system that can enhance a successful monitoring and evaluation system in the education sector of the region. The current staffs do not have adequate knowledge and skills, there is no proper monitoring, and evaluation coordination among stakeholders, and the bureau does not allocate adequate funds required for monitoring and evaluation activities. To undertake monitoring and evaluation, the Gambella bureau of education there needs a greater understanding of the value of monitoring and evaluation and there is a requirement for the bureau of education and the stakeholders to develop proper a legislative framework that considers the key performance indicator stetted in the education sector development program six for the effective implementation of monitoring and evaluation in the education sector for effective decision-making.
Co-creating with AI in Art Education: On the Precipice of the Next Terrain
Authors: Mayo Sherry
Published: June 2024

In exploring the collaborative engagement of AI in envisioning the future through Art Education, a critical focus emerges on the role of preservice teacher education. This inquiry underscores the necessity of equipping educators with the essential skills and resources to integrate AI-driven content creation, thereby nurturing students' futuristic imagination. To empower educators in this endeavor, it is imperative to provide structured curriculum frameworks and technical proficiency in utilizing AI software tools. By adeptly training preservice teachers in leveraging AI resources, it is necessary to catalyze a new wave of aesthetic innovation transcending the digital era. The competency of educators in integrating AI will significantly shape the capacity of the next generation to innovate and co-create with this technology. Hence, there is a pressing need to invest in preservice training and foster a culture of AI experimentation within educational environments. There exist issues of bias, accuracy, ethics, and safety when utilizing AI, and these also need to be addressed in the classroom space. This paper aims to delve into instructional models for seamlessly integrating AI into preservice training. It will deliberate on strategies for incorporating AI tools to redefine the trajectory of art and design education. Through thoughtful exploration and implementation, teachers can harness the transformative potential of AI to inspire creativity and drive innovation in the realm of Art Education.
Comparative Performance of Non-Stationary Intensity-Duration-Frequency (NS-IDF) Models for Selected Gauge Stations in the Niger Delta
Authors: Sam Masi , Nwaogazie Ify
Published: June 2024

This study focused on a comparative analysis of developed Non-stationary rainfall intensity-duration-frequency (NS-IDF) models with existing IDF models for the Niger Delta with Uyo, Benin, Port Harcourt, and Warri as selected stations. Applied was 24-hourly (daily) annual maximum series (AMS) data with downscaling models also used to downscale the time series data. Uyo and Benin had statistically significant trends with Port Harcourt and Warri showing mild trends. The best linear behavioural parameter extremes model integrating time as co-variate was selected for each station for computation of the General extreme value (GEV) distribution fitted NS-IDF models with the open-access R-studio software. The Non-stationary intensity values were higher than computed stationary ones, with significant differences at a 5% significance level for a given return period. For example, for 2 and 10-year return periods for 1-hour storms the differences of 22.71% & 17.0%, 15.24% & 9.40%, 5.09% & 4.04%, and 6.15% & 4.43% for Uyo, Benin, Port Harcourt and Warri, respectively were recorded. While, the percentage difference in intensities was very high between the Non-stationary and existing, Stationary IDF models. For a return period of 2 years at 15 and 60 min durations, the differences were 97.9 & 3.2%, 240.6 & 67.2%, 78.2 & 0%, and 121.6 & 50.1% for Uyo, Benin, Port Harcourt and Warri, respectively. Such extreme value difference in intensity underestimates the peak flood and exagerate the flood risk. The general NS-IDF calibrated models showed very good match and fit with R2 = 0.977, 0.999, 0.999 & 0.999, and MSE accuracy = 193.5, 1.011, 4.1552 & 1.011 for Uyo, Benin, Port Harcourt, and Warri, respectively. Erosion and flood control facilities in the Niger Delta require upgrading using the calibrated general NS-IDF models to accommodate extra-value rainfall intensities due to climate change.
Risk Factors for Ten-Year Risk of Osteoporosis in Type 2 DM Patients Attending Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital Diabetic Center Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Azibte Gebeyehu , Aberra Theodros , Ayalew Zekarias , Tsige Kibrekidusan , Molla Bereket , Weldeamanuel Mahlet , Birhanu Waltengus , Legesse Biruk
Published: June 2024

Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a major contributing factor to osteoporotic fractures via different mechanisms. This study assessed the ten-year risk of osteoporosis and associated factors for osteoporotic fractures in T2DM patients. Methods: Data from 175 type diabetes mellites (T2DM) patients over 40 years attending a diabetes clinic at Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital (TASH) were collected. Demographic information, diabetic complications, blood sugar levels, and other medical illnesses were collected by a structured questionnaire and from an electronic medical record system. The 10-year fracture risk assessment (FRAX) tool was used without bone mineral density (BMD) measurement. multivariate logistic regression was used to analyze factors associated with fragility fractures. Results: Half the participants were female, with a median age of 60. Most were married, well-educated, and urban residents. The median duration of diabetes was 11 years. The median FRAX score indicated a moderate 10-year risk of hip fracture (≥3%) and a high risk of major osteoporotic fracture (≥20%). Overall, 30.9% of patients had a high 10-year risk of osteoporotic fracture. The majority (78.3%) had macrovascular complications, with neuropathy, retinopathy, and nephropathy being the common ones. Higher FBS, higher HbA1c, and the presence of macrovascular complications were significantly associated with a higher risk of fractures. Conclusion: This study found a high prevalence (30.9%) of a 10-year risk of osteoporotic fractures in T2 DM patients. Poor glycemic control (higher HbA1c and FBS) and the presence of macrovascular complications were significantly associated with an increased 10-year osteoporotic fracture risk.
Banking Performance During the Global Financial Crisis: Empirical Evidence from Bangladesh
Authors: Banu Mosa. , Karmakar Anima , Afrin Kaniz , Chakrobortty Tamal , Afrin Tasnia
Published: June 2024

Purpose-The Russia-Ukraine conflict and 19 pandemics have severely damaged the world economy. Banking institutions are crucial to the functioning of any economy, and their financial standing is a vital indicator of the economy's stability. Any major development, be it political or economic, has an impact on the banking industry. The dollar rate's volatility and other issues hurt the GDP. Therefore, the study examines banking performance in vulnerable global situations before and during the pandemic. This study utilizes 7 years of panel data to analyze global financial crisis banking performance. Design/methodology- Eight ratios were used to compare the banks' profitability, efficiency, liquidity position, and default risk: return on asset, asset utilization ratio, operational efficiency ratio, debt to asset ratio, loan to deposit ratio, loan to asset ratio, credit risk, and bank size. The descriptive statistics show lower ROA and AUR values for banks, but a lower CR value suggests that pandemic-era borrowers will repay their loans on time. Findings – Due to their reliance on borrowed capital, banks may be more vulnerable to default and financial leverage since they lack the liquidity to meet unforeseen requirements for funds. This is indicated by the higher mean values of DAR, LDR, and LAR. Ratio analysis shows that pre-pandemic banks profited well throughout the pandemic. State-owned banks have a worse position in profitability, efficiency, and default risk but a better position in liquidity in both study periods. Conventional banks placed first in profitability, but Islamishariah-based banks placed first in efficiency, high liquidity risk, and low default risk. Originality –This study will help bank officials find the flaw and prevent it from improving financial performance and recovering from the global crisis. This may assist bank investors and depositors in choosing wisely.
Carbon Sequestration Potential of Coffee Based Agro-Forestry Systems in Nono Sale Forest, Southwest Ethiopia
Authors: Ararsa Feyisa , Endalamaw Tefera
Published: June 2024

The study was conducted to demonstrate empirically the carbon stocks of Coffee based agroforestry at Nono Sale District, southwestern Ethiopia. Stratify the study area into three strata based on the Species Abundance, availability of coffee and Density (Mixed Natural Forest coffee strata 51 ha, Albizia strata 34 ha and Syzygiam strata 20 ha) a total 34 nested plots 20 m × 20 m, 2 m × 2 m and 1 m × 1 m were laid in the stratum to measure the biomass of woody plants, herbaceous, and litter biomass respectively. Soil samples was collected from the upper 0-30 cm depth. The Estimation of Carbon was done by using the generic equation AGTB =0.0673 × (ρD2H)0.976 and AGB = 0.147 × d402 for tree biomass and coffee respectively. The total carbon stored in the CAF in the Strata ranged from 188.54 to 232.43 Mg ha-1 with a mean of 203.97 Mg ha-1. The Albizia CAF strata had significantly more carbon than natural mixed forest CAF Strata and Syzygiam CAF strata. 232.43 Mg ha-1, 232.43 Mg ha-1 and 188.54 respectably. Soil carbon was found 10.32Mg ha-1 in natural mixed forest CAF Strata, 9.8 Mg ha-1 the Albizia CAF strata ha-1 and 7.27 Syzygiam CAF strata. There was statically significant deferens at 0.1% but there is no significant effect at P< 0.05% between soil carbon stocks in the strata. On average, 75% of the carbon stored in tree biomass (above and below ground) and it is the largest carbon storage of the study area.
Relative Phenotypic Performance of Crossbred Chicken as Step in Synthetic Breed Development in Ethiopia: A Review Article
Authors: Taye Shambel , Edea Chala , Hailemariam Atsbaha , Alewi Misba
Published: June 2024

The present review article aims to provide and summarize synthesized information regarding some of economically important traits on reproductive and productive performance of crossbred chicken to develop both adaptive and sustainable breed to the intended beneficiaries. Most of crossing were used full diallel mating design in both direct and reciprocal ways. Growth traits, egg production traits, reproductive traits and other economically important traits of crossbred chicken were assessed in comparison to their counterpart’s purebred both native and exotic parents. In the majority of crossbreeding studies, the hybrids surpassed the original native parental breeds in various traits studied, including body weight, feed conversion ratio, age at first egg, egg production, egg weight, and egg mass. The majority of hybrids achieved sexual maturity at an earlier age, laid more eggs, and produced a greater egg mass when compared to local chickens. Eggs from the hybrids were also heavier than those from the local chickens in certain crossbreeding experiments. In overall, crossbred chickens that combine the blood of exotic and local breeds tend to perform relatively better than indigenous chickens, which are typically characterized in low production due genetics. The frequent production of F1 crossbred demands in subsequent importation of exotic parent due to produced offspring chicken are terminal genetically. Also, the degree of heterosis retained in the crossbred decreased as generation increased due recombinant ad segregations effects. To overcome such problem producing adaptive and sustainable chicken breed through synthetic breeding is crucial for developing countries like Ethiopia.
Negative Binomial Three Parameter Lindley Distribution and Its Properties
Authors: Anjela Wanjala , Muhua George
Published: June 2024

Many researchers have proposed mixed distributions as one of the most important methods for obtaining new probability distributions. Several studies have shown that mixed Negative Binomial distributions fits count data better than Poisson and Negative Binomial distribution itself. In this paper, we introduce a mixed distribution by mixing the distributions of negative binomial and three Parameter Lindley distribution. This new distribution has a thick tail and may be considered as an alternative for fitting count data with over dispersion. The parameters of the new distribution are estimated using MLE method and properties studied. Special cases of the new distribution and also identified. A simulation study carried out shows that the ML estimators give the parameter estimates close to the parameter when the sample is large, that is, the bias and variance of the parameter estimates decrease with increase in sample size showing the consistent nature of the new compound distribution. The study also compares the performance of the new distribution over distributions of Poisson, Negative Binomial, Negative Binomial oneParameter Lindley Distribution, Negative Binomial two Parameter distribution, three parameter Lindley distribution using a real count over dispersed dataset and the results shows that Negative Binomial three parameter Lindley distribution gave the smallest Kolmogorov Smirnov test statistic, AIC and BIC as compared to other distributions, hence the new distribution provided a better fit compared to other distributions under study for fitting over dispersed count data.
A Review of the Advances in Artificial Intelligence in Transportation System Development
Authors: Mirindi Derrick
Published: June 2024

In modern times, the rapid expansion of urban populations has intensified the urgency to optimize transportation systems, which has become an alarming issue in the face of urbanization and traffic congestion. This paper reviews the latest applications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the transport sector. It explores various AI methodologies, including Artificial Neural Networks (ANN), Genetic Algorithms (GA), Simulated Annealing (SA), Ant Colony Optimizer (ACO), Bee Colony Optimization (BCO), disruptive urban mobility, Fuzzy Logic Models (FLM), automated incident detection systems, and drones, which improve dynamic traffic management and route optimization. The study reveals that integrating these AI techniques with real-time data analytics improves traffic flow, automated incident management, and overall transportation efficiency. The results demonstrate that AI-driven systems, such as drones equipped with advanced sensors and AI algorithms, are increasingly capable of autonomous navigation, real-time monitoring, and predictive traffic management. These advancements in technologies, such as electric Vertical Take-off and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft, Hyperloop Transportation Technologies (HTT), Mobility-as-a-Service (MaaS) and autonomous delivery robots, contribute to smarter urban mobility solutions. However, it is important to focus on refining AI models for better performance, addressing challenges such as computational complexity and privacy concerns, and continuing to innovate in AI to improve the economic efficiency and reliability of transportation systems. Furthermore, to promote sustainability development in this sector, ethical considerations such as the protection of user information and the integration of the concepts of informed consent and human autonomy with community engagement programs should also be considered.
Managing Climate Risks and Adaptation in Coastal Communities: How to Provide Information
Authors: Kim Younsung , Ross Julie
Published: June 2024

In recent years, climate adaptation has gained significant attention from policymakers and public managers. In the U.S., states play a crucial role in developing coastal management policies, initiatives, and programs to reduce climate risks and enhance protection against extreme weather. Despite various approaches, few studies have examined information provision tools for coastal hazard mitigation and climate adaptation. As a result, there is limited knowledge about effective adaptation tools with low transaction costs. Using the StormSmart Coasts program as a case study, this research explores information-based climate adaptation and the components needed for a successful information-sharing platform. Established by the Massachusetts Office of Coastal Zone Management in 2008, StormSmart Coasts is a web-based program offering practical information for hazard mitigation to local decision-makers and communities. The study identifies three key features of an effective tool: providing tailored information to different stakeholders, serving as an outreach tool, and connecting with diverse stakeholders, including local managers and homeowners. The findings suggest that a well-designed information-sharing tool can enhance adaptive capacity and improve climate change preparedness in coastal communities.
Experimental Study on Influencing Factors of Mixing Solidification Strength of Marine Soft Soil
Authors: Qijun Zhang , Zhiqiang Wang , Huijin Xiao , Jialiang Feng , Fengyang Qiao , Xiaoyu Bai
Published: June 2024

It is a common problem that the soft soil solidified strength by mixing is low. In order to search for the sensitive factors that affect the solidified strength, a certain marine soft soil is taken as an object, four influencing factors, such as solidified material and its dosage, mixing uniformity, water-cement ratio and curing environment, were selected for experimental study, the results show that: (1) the effect of the curing material and its content on the curing strength is obvious: the curing agent of HR soft clay is 183-212% of the cement curing strength, and the curing strength of the same kind of curing material with 20% is 25-44% higher than that of 15%. 2 mixing uniformity has a significant effect on the curing strength: the curing strength of slurry and soft soil after mixing for 1 minute is very different, and the average strength is only 10% of the full mixing strength. The average strength of the three-minute-agitation was 49-50% of the full-agitation strength, while the average strength of the six-minute-agitation strength was 92-93% of the full-agitation strength. 3 the effect of water-cement ratio on the curing strength is obvious: the curing strength decreases by 24-47% when the water-cement ratio is 1.0 vs 0.6, and by 75-80% when the water-cement ratio is 3.0 vs 0.6. 4 curing environment has obvious influence on curing strength: compared with standard curing condition, curing strength of low temperature curing condition is reduced by 52-57%. This study has important guiding significance for soft soil foundation treatment and solidified soil based on soft soil.
Review on Microbiology of Cereal-Based Spontaneously Fermented Foods and Beverages
Authors: Kitessa Daniel
Published: June 2024

Spontaneously fermented cereal-based foods and beverages are fermented by diverse arrays of microorganisms which play significant roles at different stages of fermentation. The aim of this review is to summarize the scientific data on the microbiology of cereal-based spontaneously fermented foods and beverages. Yeasts are a large group of beneficial bacteria in food fermentation followed by lactic acid bacteria. Molds also play an important role in the production of various foods and non-food products. The possible functions of yeast in the fermentation of carbohydrates are aroma production, stimulation of lactic acid bacteria and degradation of mycotoxin. However, this review results reveal that all yeasts and molds are not beneficial microbes. According to the reports of many researchers, Enterobacteriaceae and total coliforms are not persisted to the end of fermentation. However, aerobic mesophilic bacteria, staphylococcus spp., and aerobic spore-forming bacteria are persisted to the end of some fermented food and beverage products. In spontaneous fermentation, aerobic spore-forming bacteria play crucial role in the begging stage of fermentation to breakdown of complex structure of food composition which facilitates the environment for the yeast and lactic acid bacteria. This review concluded that spontaneous fermentation process reduces both pathogenic and spoilage microorganisms to non-significant level thus make the end product safe for consumption.
Common Community Physics Package: Fostering Collaborative Development in Physical Parameterizations and Suites
Authors: Bernardet Ligia , Bengtsson Lisa , Reinecke Patrick A. , Yang Fanglin , Zhang Man , Hall Kyle , Doyle James , Martini Matus , Firl Grant , Xue Lulin
Published: June 2024

The Common Community Physics Package (CCPP) is a state-of-the-art infrastructure designed to facilitate community-wide development of atmospheric physics parameterizations, support their interoperability among different modeling centers, and enable the transition of research to operations in NWP and climate modeling. The CCPP consists of two elements: the Physics (a repository of parameterizations) and the Framework (an infrastructure for interfacing the parameterizations with host models). The CCPP is a community resource: Its latest release has 23 primary parameterizations, which can be organized into six supported suites. It is distributed with a single-column model to facilitate physics development and experimentation. The Developmental Testbed Center provides support to users and developers. A key aspect of the CCPP is its interoperability, that is, its ability to be used by multiple host models. This enables synergistic collaboration among groups dispersed over various institutions and working on various models. In this article, we provide an overview of the CCPP and how it is being used in two leading modeling systems. The CCPP is part of the Unified Forecast System (UFS), is included in the NOAA operational Hurricane Analysis and Forecast System (HAFS) version 1, and is slated for use in all upcoming NOAA global and limited-area UFS applications for operations. Similarly, the CCPP has been integrated into the Navy Environmental Prediction System Using a Nonhydrostatic Engine (NEPTUNE) model and is undergoing testing for the upcoming transition to operations. These experiences make physics interoperability a reality and open the doors for much broader collaborative efforts on ESM development.
The Trauma Recovery Clinic: A Stepped Collaborative Care Model for Trauma Surgery Patients to Address Health Disparities
Authors: Conrad Erich J. , Rajo Erika M. , Barker Chikira , Beiter Kaylin , Hughes Jennifer B. , Stuart Sarah
Published: June 2024

Background: The Trauma Recovery Clinic (TRC) was developed to meet the psychiatric, psychological, and psychosocial needs of traumatically injured patients following discharge from a level-I trauma center. The objective of this study is to demonstrate the efficacy of the TRC as an application of the stepped collaborative care model in order to address health disparities.

Methods: Patients with a history of inpatient treatment for a physically traumatic injury at this level-I trauma center were approached and enrolled at initial TRC outpatient appointments. Data was collected, including the PTSD Checklist-Civilian Version (PCL-C), the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), the Attitudes towards Guns scale, and the Youth Behavior Risk Survey (questions about weapon carrying practices).

Results: A total of 80 patients were included in this study. Patients expressed several social determinants of health risk factors, with 60% of the sample reporting witnessing someone being wounded or killed. Results demonstrated a significant decrease in trauma symptoms (T24 = 3.33; P = .001, d = 0.67) and depressive symptoms (T24 = 2.23, P = .02, d = 0.45) by their 6th clinic visit. Additionally, patients reported significant improvements in role limitations due to emotional problems (T25 = 1.74; P = .04; d = 0.34) and social functioning (T25 = 2.23; P = .02; d = 0.43). Interestingly, patients who reported carrying a weapon in the last 30 days reported significantly higher trauma symptoms (T64 = 3.21, P = .002) and depressive symptoms (T64 = 2.77, P = .007).

Discussion: This evaluation of services at the recently implemented Trauma Recovery Clinic demonstrated that the clinic is successfully treating individuals who have experienced traumatic injuries. More specifically, the clinic services are effectively engaging a vulnerable, hard-to-reach patient population.
The Use of a Just Noticeable Difference Approach to Improve Perceptual Acuity Ability in Male Runners
Authors: Krause Maressa Priscila , Haile Luke , Antonio Dayanne Sampaio , Peres Andre L. , Robertson Robert J.
Published: June 2024

We were interested in micro-variations in an athlete’s psychophysical state that separate peak exertion from physiological collapse. Thus, we measured perceptual acuity in runners using a classic psychophysical approach, the just noticeable difference (JND) on two standard stimuli runs at treadmill speed corresponding to 70%VO2max and 80%VO2max. Thirty-four male runners ( M age = 35.26, SD = 7.33 years) first performed a maximal treadmill test to determine the speed of a standard exercise bout for the JND trials. The JND trials consisted of four 5-minute running bouts on a treadmill with 5-minute rests between bouts. For bouts 1 and 3, participants ran at the standard stimuli pace, but for bouts 2 and 4, they adjusted their speeds to achieve a level of exertion at a JND above/below the SS. They achieved differences in the final 30 seconds of the VO2 between each JND bout and the previous standard stimuli at just above (JND-A) and just below (JND-B) the JND perceived exertions. We used a Generalized Linear Model analysis to compare the JND-A and JND-B within and between ventilatory threshold groups (lower/higher) in absolute and relative VO2 and in terms of the total JND magnitude. The magnitude of JND-A was greater than that of JND-B at 70%VO2max and 80%VO2max in absolute units (70%VO2 Δ = 2.62; SE = 0.37; p < .001; 80%VO2 Δ = 1.67; SE = 0.44; p = .002) and in relative units (70%VO2max Δ = 4.70; SE = 0.66; p < .001; 80%VO2max Δ = 2.96; SE = 0.80; p = .002). The total magnitude was greater in the 70%VO2max trial than 80%VO2max in absolute units (70%VO2 M = 3.78, SE = 0.31 mL·kg−1·min−1; 80%VO2 M = 2.62, SE = 0.37 mL·kg−1·min−1; p = .020) and in relative units (70%VO2max M = 6.57, SE = 0.53%VO2max; 80%VO2max M = 4.71, SE = 0.64%VO2max; p = .030). The JND range narrowed when physiologic demand increased, for both physical (speed) and psychological (RPE) variables.
Home-Court Advantage is Greater for Teams Competing at Higher Playing Levels: An Exploratory Analysis of Spanish Male Basketball Leagues
Authors: Alonso Pérez-Chao Enrique , Nieto-Acevedo Raúl , Scanlan Aaron T. , Martin-Castellanos Adrián , Lorenzo Alberto , Gómez Miguel Ángel
Published: June 2024

This study aimed to (i) compare the extent of home-court advantage (HA) and home win percentage (HW) between Spanish basketball leagues across different playing levels (i.e., leagues) and (ii) analyze the influence of team ability on HA and HW within each playing level. We gathered data for game locations and results from open online sources for all games in the First Division (ACB), Second Division (LEB Gold), and Third Division (LEB Silver) Spanish male basketball leagues between 2010–2023. The dataset included 12 seasons, 635 teams (215 First Division, 203, Second Division, and 217 Third Division), and 19,539 games (7075 First Division, 6344 Second Division, and 5520 Third Division). We calculated HA [(total home wins/total wins) * 100] and HW [(total home wins/total home games) * 100] for each team across each season. We performed Kruskal Wallis tests, calculated partial eta squared ( ηp2), and performed Mann-Whitney U tests with rank biserial correlation ( r b) effect sizes and Dwass-Steel-Critchlow-Fligner pairwise comparisons to compare HA and HW between leagues and between team abilities (low, medium, and/or high) within each league. There was a significant effect for HA between leagues ( p = .01) with post hoc comparisons revealing a higher HA for the First Division than for the Third Division ( p = .01), but HW was not significantly different between leagues. In turn, variations in HA and HW between team abilities were consistent across playing levels, with HW significantly increasing in a progressive manner with higher team abilities ( p < .001) and with HA significantly lower among high-level teams compared to lower-ability team clusters ( p < .01). These findings emphasize the importance of considering playing level and team ability and interpreting HA and HW together to contextualize an apparent home advantage in Spanish basketball.
Plowshares or swords? End-of-the-world rhetoric in a politically divided world
Authors: Brenneman James E.
Published: June 2024

A presidential election year, when apocalyptic rhetorical bombast can be at its most cutting and binary, provides an ideal socio-political setting to assess and challenge the standard accounts of political realism. Insofar as appeals to end-of-the-world rhetoric in Scripture are often enough used by politicians backed by their various religious constituencies in making their opposing cases, opposing apocalypses in the Bible provide an ideal literary context to assess and challenge the standard accounts and efforts to unify texts in Scripture that are on-their-face contradictory. Since preachers in pulpits are often the primary interpreters of Scripture to their church-going publics, how might a preacher preach the famous contradictory “plowshare” passages in the Bible (Isa 2:2-4 and Joel 3:9-12) in a season of heightened political tension, indeed, any time when faced with contradictions in the Bible? This article argues for a nonviolent political realism as a political theology for addressing such end-of-the-world binaries that have and continue to threaten real and unleashed violence upon the world.
The power of paranoia: Politics, the Bible, and conspiracy theories
Authors: Sias Eric J.
Published: June 2024

In the current US political climate, paranoia, pervasive and widespread, can serve as a politician’s greatest ally, a relationship exemplified by its continual display in Donald Trump and his followers. Indeed, stoking fear, conjuring crisis, and incorporating familiar biblical “bogeymen” tropes into the paranoid political conversation are textbook strategies in the current US political discourse, becoming increasingly influential, especially among its followers. This article explores the phenomenon of paranoia in the US political sphere vis-à-vis the Bible. Specifically, it examines the historical development of the Satan figure, which evolved from the general Hebrew term śāṭān to becoming the prince of darkness pulling the demonic strings of the world. In today’s US political landscape, extreme groups weaponize this concept, demonizing opponents to gain political advantage, a tactic predominantly employed by right-wing figures such as Trump and Marjorie Taylor Greene. This article aims to shed light on how these individuals manipulate biblical narratives for political gain, urging attention to this perspective often overlooked in political analysis.
Rates and Reasons for Not Reporting Religious Discrimination to Authority Figures
Authors: Scheitle Christopher P. , Freeman Mackenzie G.
Published: June 2024

Research has found that many individuals who believe they have experienced discrimination do not report the incident to a relevant authority figure. Much of this research has focused on gender- and race-based discrimination, with relatively little research examining religion-based discrimination. Using data from a representative sample of U.S. adults, this research note examines the rate of reporting religious discrimination to authorities and the reasons given for non-reporting. Our analysis finds that only 13 percent of individuals perceiving religious discrimination report the experience to a relevant authority figure. The most common reason for non-reporting is a belief that nothing could be done, although the reasons given for non-reporting depend in part on the specific context or type of discrimination experienced. Moreover, relative to Christians, Muslims are significantly more likely to attribute their non-reporting to a belief that nothing could be done and a fear of personal risks.