bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sustainable urban expansion and human development in China: An analysis using an environmentally improved human development index
Authors: Shao Jiaqi , Kong Xuesong
Published: January 2024

Urban expansion poses a substantial challenge to sustainable regional development, but the spatiotemporal relationship between urban expansion and human development remains unclear. This paper proposed an improved human development index (IHDI) incorporating an environmental dimension and analyzed the spatiotemporal correlation between urban expansion and IHDI growth in China from 1990 to 2020. Significant increases in both urban expansion and human development levels were observed, and environmental differences between Eastern and Western China were effectively detected based on the IHDI, which also well reflected the geographical patterns bounded by the Hu Huanyong Line. In 1990, a significant disparity existed in the IHDI between the provincial capital cities and the entire province; by 2020, this gap had narrowed, and the prioritized development of provincial capitals subsequently propelled regional growth. Although positive correlations between urban expansion and IHDI growth in China were found from 2010 to 2020, the percentage of expansive negative decoupling between urban expansion and IHDI growth gradually increased, indicating a less sustainable relationship involved in urban expansion and human development in China. This study contributes to a comprehensive understanding of the spatiotemporal correlation between urban expansion and human development, and provides valuable insights for achieving sustainable development goals in China.
Sustainable investing and financing for sustainable development: A hybrid review
Authors: Joshipura Mayank , Mathur Sachin , Kedia Nikita
Published: January 2024

Sustainable investing and financing play a central role in achieving sustainable development goals. Using high‐quality articles from the Scopus database, this study deploys bibliometric analysis followed by content analysis on 528 and 33 articles to synthesise the academic literature on sustainable investing and financing published between 2012 and mid‐2022 and analyse the field's evolution and progress in research. The performance analysis identifies the field's most influential studies, and the conceptual and intellectual structures shed light on foundational themes and research progression. An in‐depth content analysis identifies and reveals novel insights on three primary research themes: financing sustainability, asset returns, and sustainable outcomes. The key issues encompass investor motivations and investment performance of sustainable investments compared to conventional investments, challenges, and policy enablers that aid the development of sustainable financing and sustainability outcomes. The study also offers future research directions and concisely summarises research using the theories‐context‐characteristics‐methods framework. The findings will help further theory development in academic research on sustainable investing and financing and have practical implications for investors, issuers, and regulators. Investors can gain insights into the performance of sustainable investments, issuers can understand the benefits of adopting sustainable finance, and regulators can obtain insights into the policy enablers that would result in more efficient outcomes. The limitation of the study is that it is qualitative and does not quantify factors or models that lead to sustainable development.
Agroecology, tourism, and community adaptability under UNESCO biosphere reserve: A case study of smallholders in northern Thailand
Authors: Amloy Aumpika , Wonglangka Warong , Ounchanum Pandin , Ruangwitthayanusorn Supakul , Siriphon Aranya , Oranratmanee Rawiwan
Published: January 2024

This study investigates the intersection of agroecology and sustainable tourism, shedding light on the adaptive resilience within rural communities. Focused on the delicate balance between tourism‐driven economic gains, social‐ecological enhancements, and environmental conservation, the research centers on a case study involving four communities within the Mueang Khong subdistrict of Chiang Dao, Northern Thailand. Methodologically, the fieldwork conducted in 2022 combined ecological and landscape surveys with qualitative methods, including interviews, observations, and document analysis, to capture insights into local communities' perspectives, behaviors, and experiences. By adopting an agroecological approach to tourism, these communities have demonstrated their dynamism of adaptability and resilience in response to challenges posed by existing tourism activities and emerging circumstances. A significant catalyst contributing to this adaptability is the UNESCO recognition of Doi Chiang Dao as a new biosphere reserve, fostering new collaborations among diverse stakeholders and raising awareness regarding positive ecological conservation, food diversity and security, and improved livelihoods. This study argues that the ability to adapt, aiming to cultivate thriving communities and achieve balanced economic growth, responsible tourism, social inclusivity, and resource management, stands as a fundamental pillar for sustainable development in rural areas of Northern Thailand.
Being a parent of a soldier is a challenging experience – stress, anxiety, and depression among parents of Israeli soldiers
Authors: Savitsky Bella , Shvartsur Rachel
Published: January 2024

At any given moment, a notable proportion of parents worldwide have at least one child serving in the military. The aim of this study is to assess the prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress in the sample of parents of Israeli soldiers and to assess the difference in this prevalence by type of service (combat vs. non‐combat) and other demographic characteristics of parents and soldiers. A cross‐sectional study of a convenience sample of 202 Israeli parents who were interviewed during January‐September 2023. Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS‐21) was used to measure the emotional states of depression, anxiety, and stress (with cut‐off points of ≥5, ≥4, and ≥8, respectively). Having depression, anxiety, or stress was defined as psychological distress. Parents' demographics and child's service characteristics were included in the multivariable logistic regression model, with psychological distress as a dependent variable. Almost a quarter (22.8%) of parents experienced distress, defined as having high depression, anxiety, or stress score. In a multivariable model, combat service (vs. non‐combat) was significantly associated with distress: parents of combat soldiers were four times more likely to report distress than parents of non‐combat soldiers (OR = 3.9; 95% CI: 1.3–11.8). Highly classified service preventing the child from sharing information with the parents was significantly associated with distress (OR = 2.6; 95% CI: 1.2–5.3). Most distressed parents (78.3%) did not seek professional help, with the vast majority of those seeking assistance were female. Given the substantial proportion of parents suffering from mental distress found in this study, especially parents of combat soldiers and those serving in highly classified positions, healthcare professionals should be aware of parents' difficulties, be proactive in gathering information about their mental well‐being, and be prepared to provide professional help.
Borrowing networks for innovation: The role of attention allocation in secondhand brokerage
Authors: Rhee Luke , Leonardi Paul
Published: January 2024

Research Summary

This study investigates how people connecting with brokers who span structural holes in a firm's communication networks can enhance their innovative performance. Through sociometric data from a large software company, we observe that individuals who pay attention to information from brokers achieve higher innovative performance compared with those who ignore such information. The advantage of paying attention to brokers' information is more pronounced when people operate in highly constrained networks. Yet, our post hoc analysis reveals that people typically allocate less attention to information from brokers than from local colleagues—they systematically do the opposite of what they should do for innovative performance. Our findings regarding the role of attention for secondhand brokerage make significant contributions to studies of networks and innovation for behavioral strategy.

Managerial Summary

This study investigates how innovation is influenced by paying attention to brokers within a company. Brokers are individuals who bridge different groups, providing access to varied information. Analysis of internal data from a large software company reveals that employees who heed the ideas of brokers tend to be more innovative, especially in close‐knit networks. However, there is a notable tendency for people to ignore brokers, favoring information from familiar colleagues instead. This indicates a significant attention bias, where the potentially most valuable sources for innovation are often unattended. Our research highlights the critical need for a strategic approach to distributing attention within company networks, which can significantly boost innovative performance.
Earliest Danian outer neritic elasmobranch assemblages reveal an environmentally controlled faunal turnover at the Cretaceous–Palaeogene boundary in the northern Tethyan Realm (Austria)
Authors: Feichtinger Iris , Pollerspöck Jürgen , Harzhauser Mathias , Auer Gerald , Ćorić Stjepan , Kranner Matthias , Beaury Bernhard , Guinot Guillaume
Published: January 2024

This study reports elasmobranch remains from two fossil‐rich horizons in the earliest Danian Olching Formation at Waidach, Austria. These outer neritic assemblages complement previous fine‐scale bulk‐sampling of latest Maastrichtian horizons at Waidach and document a regional elasmobranch faunal turnover across the Cretaceous–Palaeogene (K–Pg) boundary. The Danian assemblages show homogeneity in species richness and are dominated by squaliforms. The fauna comprises 16 species belonging to 12 genera including several new taxa (Centrodeania rugosa gen. et sp. nov., Centrodeania annae gen. et sp. nov., Incognitorapax fernsebneri gen. et sp. nov., Scyliorhinus alaformis sp. nov.). Comparison with latest Maastrichtian assemblages from Waidach revealed a marked faunal turnover across the K–Pg boundary associated with an increase in species richness and shift in abundance from Squaliformes to Carcharhiniformes. This is associated with marked environmental changes from a deep marine, dysoxic setting in the Maastrichtian to a more oxygenated, shallower environment in the earliest Danian. The turnover was driven by environmentally induced regional changes in species geographic ranges. High diversity in the Danian fauna suggests that the habitability of the corresponding palaeoenvironment was preserved or recovered immediately after the K–Pg event. Comparison with other elasmobranch assemblages across the K–Pg boundary highlights a strong control of local palaeoenvironmental settings over the timing and magnitude of the turnover. Our study emphasizes the importance of successive sampling to disentangle local from general patterns of faunal turnover during the K–Pg event and to better assess the consequences of this extinction event over elasmobranch diversity.
Eurocode 2 design of recycled aggregate concrete elements under compression: Evaluation through model uncertainties from tests on columns
Authors: Knapcová Veronika , Pacheco João , de Brito Jorge , Sonnenschein Robert
Published: January 2024

Recycled aggregate concrete contributes to the recovery of construction and demolition waste, which is a growing societal concern. The technical feasibility of recycled aggregate concrete has been extensively tested and validated and the revisions of codes are already including clauses for recycled aggregate concrete specification and design. However, there are still doubts regarding its structural behavior. This article assesses the suitability of Eurocode 2 design clauses for concrete elements under compression when used for recycled aggregate concrete design. This is done through the analysis of model uncertainties that are estimated from a database collected from laboratory experiments on columns. Both the current version of Eurocode 2 (with and without taking confinement into account) and the upcoming (second generation) Eurocode 2 are considered. A database was collected with clearly defined criteria and includes coarse recycled aggregates produced from concrete waste, since columns made with other types of recycled aggregates are scarcely tested and do not represent the current status for structural recycled aggregate concrete design and production. The statistics of the model uncertainty for natural and recycled concrete columns were compared and it was observed that the mean model uncertainty tends to decrease slightly when recycled aggregates are used. However, a preliminary assessment of whether a partial factor for recycled aggregate concrete compression design should be used concluded that this partial factor is not necessary to ensure reliable design and the design of columns may be carried out using the same formulae used for conventional concrete. The format proposed may be used for other resistance models, provided that the partial factor is calibrated for each resistance model.
Exploring m6A‐linked aging genes in osteoarthritis and broad cancer spectrum: Prospects for diagnostic and therapeutic advancements
Authors: Cai Qiuchen , Xia Wenyang , Su Qihang , Ge Heng'an , Chen Liyang , Liu Centao , Zhao Bin'an , Xue Chao , Huang Jinbiao , Huang Chenlong , Li Jun , Wu Peng , Cheng Biao
Published: January 2024

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent degenerative joint disease that significantly impacts individuals and healthcare systems worldwide. However, the exploration of N6‐methyladenosine (m6A)‐related aging genes in OA pathogenesis remains largely underexplored. This study aimed to elucidate the role of m6A‐related aging genes in OA and to develop a robust diagnostic model based on their expression profiles. Leveraging publicly available gene expression datasets, we conducted consensus clustering to categorize OA into distinct subtypes, guided by the expression patterns of m6A‐related aging genes. Utilizing XGBoost, a cutting‐edge machine learning approach, we identified key diagnostic genes and constructed a predictive model. Our investigation extended to the immune functions of these genes, shedding light on potential therapeutic targets and underlying regulatory mechanisms. Our analysis unveiled specific OA subtypes, each marked by unique expression profiles of m6A‐related aging genes. We pinpointed a set of pivotal diagnostic genes, offering potential therapeutic avenues. The developed diagnostic model exhibited exceptional capability in distinguishing OA patients from healthy controls. To corroborate our computational findings, we performed quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction analyses on two cell lines: HC‐OA (representing adult osteoarthritis cells) and C‐28/I2 (representative of normal human chondrocytes). The gene expression patterns observed were consistent with our bioinformatics predictions, further validating our initial results. In conclusion, this study underscores the significance of m6A‐related aging genes as promising biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis, as well as potential therapeutic targets in OA. Although these findings are encouraging, further validation and functional analyses are crucial for their clinical application.
Accuracy Optimization in Speech Pathology Diagnosis with Data Preprocessing Techniques
Authors: Fernandes Joana Filipa Teixeira , Freitas Diamantino Rui , Teixeira João Paulo
Published: January 2024

Using acoustic analysis to classify and identify speech disorders non-invasively can reduce waiting times for patients and specialists while also increasing the accuracy of diagnoses. In order to identify models to use in a vocal disease diagnosis system, we want to know which models have higher success rates in distinguishing between healthy and pathological sounds. For this purpose, 708 diseased people spread throughout 19 pathologies, and 194 control people were used. There are nine sound files per subject, three vowels in three tones, for each subject. From each sound file, 13 parameters were extracted. For the classification of healthy/pathological individuals, a variety of classifiers based on Machine Learning models were used, including decision trees, discriminant analyses, logistic regression classifiers, naive Bayes classifiers, support vector machines, classifiers of closely related variables, ensemble classifiers and artificial neural network classifiers. For each patient, 118 parameters were used initially. The first analysis aimed to find the best classifier, thus obtaining an accuracy of 81.3% for the Ensemble Sub-space Discriminant classifier. The second and third analyses aimed to improve ground accuracy using preprocessing methodologies. Therefore, in the second analysis, the PCA technique was used, with an accuracy of 80.2%. The third analysis combined several outlier treatment models with several data normalization models and, in general, accuracy improved, obtaining the best accuracy (82.9%) with the combination of the Greebs model for outliers treatment and the range model for the normalization of data procedure.
Exploring Features to Classify Occupational Accidents in the Retail Sector
Authors: Sena Inês , Braga Ana Cristina , Novais Paulo , Fernandes Florbela P. , Pacheco Maria F. , Vaz Clara B. , Lima José , Pereira Ana I.
Published: January 2024

The Machine Learning approach is used in several application domains, and its exploitation in predicting accidents in occupational safety is relatively recent. The present study aims to apply different Machine Learning algorithms for classifying the occurrence or non-occurrence of accidents at work in the retail sector. The approach consists of obtaining an impact score for each store and work unit, considering two databases of a retail company, the preventive safety actions, and the action plans. Subsequently, each score is associated with the occurrence or non-occurrence of accidents during January and May 2023. Of the five classification algorithms applied, the Support Vector Machine was the one that obtained the best accuracy and precision values for the preventive safety actions. As for the set of actions plan, the Logistic Regression reached the best results in all calculated metrics. With this study, estimating the impact score of the study variables makes it possible to identify the occurrence of accidents at work in the retail sector with high precision and accuracy.
SIRT3/6: an amazing challenge and opportunity in the fight against fibrosis and aging
Authors: Wei Wenxin , Li Tian , Chen Jinlong , Fan Zhen , Gao Feng , Yu Zhibiao , Jiang Yihao
Published: January 2024

Fibrosis is a typical aging-related pathological process involving almost all organs, including the heart, kidney, liver, lung, and skin. Fibrogenesis is a highly orchestrated process defined by sequences of cellular response and molecular signals mechanisms underlying the disease. In pathophysiologic conditions associated with organ fibrosis, a variety of injurious stimuli such as metabolic disorders, epigenetic changes, and aging may induce the progression of fibrosis. Sirtuins protein is a kind of deacetylase which can regulate cell metabolism and participate in a variety of cell physiological functions. In this review, we outline our current understanding of common principles of fibrogenic mechanisms and the functional role of SIRT3/6 in aging-related fibrosis. In addition, sequences of novel protective strategies have been identified directly or indirectly according to these mechanisms. Here, we highlight the role and biological function of SIRT3/6 focus on aging fibrosis, as well as their inhibitors and activators as novel preventative or therapeutic interventions for aging-related tissue fibrosis.

Graphical abstract
The dual role of autophagy in HPV-positive head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: a systematic review
Authors: Kandathil Sam Augustine , Akhondi Arian , Kadletz-Wanke Lorenz , Heiduschka Gregor , Engedal Nikolai , Brkic Faris F.
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Human papilloma virus (HPV)-positive head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) displays distinct epidemiological, clinical, and molecular characteristics compared to the negative counterpart. Alterations in autophagy play an important role in cancer, and emerging evidence indicates an interplay of autophagy in HNSCC carcinogenesis and tumor promotion. However, the influence of HPV infection on autophagy in HNSCC has received less attention and has not been previously reviewed. Therefore, we here aimed to systematically review the role of autophagy explicitly in HPV+ HNSCC.

Methods

Studies accessible in PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science investigating HNSCC, highlighting the molecular biological differences between HPV− and HPV+ HNSCC and its influences on autophagy in HNSCC were analyzed according to the PRISMA statement. A total of 10 articles were identified, included, and summarized.

Results

The HPV16 E7 oncoprotein was reported to be involved in the degradation of AMBRA1 and STING, and to enhance chemotherapy-induced cell death via lethal mitophagy in HNSCC cells. Autophagy-associated gene signatures correlated with HPV-subtype and overall survival. Additionally, immunohistochemical (IHC) analyses indicate that high LC3B expression correlates with poor overall survival in oropharyngeal HNSCC patients.

Conclusion

HPV may dampen general bulk autophagic flux via degradation of AMBRA1 but may promote selective autophagic degradation of STING and mitochondria. Interpretations of correlations between autophagy-associated gene expressions or IHC analyses of autophagy-related (ATG) proteins in paraffin embedded tissue with clinicopathological features without biological validation need to be taken with caution.
Imaging phase objects through diffusers based on lensless digital holography
Authors: Watanabe Wataru , Asada Shota , Kiyosumi Masaaki , Arimoto Hidenobu
Published: January 2024

Imaging of phase objects behind scattering media is a challenging task. Intensity imaging through diffusers can be achieved based on digital holography by obtaining the complex amplitude of the diffuser in advance. As described in this paper, we experimentally demonstrate the reconstructed images of phase objects behind diffusers with different diffusion angles by digital holography. Using the complex amplitude information of the diffuser to correct the complex amplitude information of the object through the diffuser, the phase distribution of the object is obtainable behind the diffuser. Imaging of phase objects behind diffusers has been verified through experiments using a plano-convex lens and a wedge substrate as phase objects with various scattering angles. Quantitative analyses of the phase objects are performed. The lens shape can be visualized from the known refractive index. Moreover, the curvature radius can be estimated.
Pragmatic randomized controlled trial comparing a complex telemedicine-based intervention with usual care in patients with chronic conditions
Authors: Sten-Gahmberg Susanna , Pedersen Kine , Harsheim Ingrid Gaarder , Løyland Hanna Isabel , Snilsberg Øyvind , Iversen Tor , Godager Geir , Sæther Erik Magnus , Abelsen Birgit
Published: January 2024

This study evaluates a complex telemedicine-based intervention targeting patients with chronic health problems. Computer tablets and home telemonitoring devices are used by patients to report point-of-care measurements, e.g., blood pressure, blood glucose or oxygen saturation, and to answer health-related questions at a follow-up center. We designed a pragmatic randomized controlled trial to compare the telemedicine-based intervention with usual care in six local centers in Norway. The study outcomes included health-related quality of life (HRQoL) based on the EuroQol questionnaire (EQ-5D-5L), patient experiences, and utilization of healthcare. We also conducted a cost–benefit analysis to inform policy implementation, as well as a process evaluation (reported elsewhere). We used mixed methods to analyze data collected during the trial (health data, survey data and interviews with patients and health personnel) as well as data from national health registers. 735 patients were included during the period from February 2019 to June 2020. One year after inclusion, the effects on the use of healthcare services were mixed. The proportion of patients receiving home-based care services declined, but the number of GP contacts increased in the intervention group compared to the control group. Participants in the intervention group experienced improved HRQoL compared to the control group and were more satisfied with the follow-up of their health. The cost–benefit of the intervention depends largely on the design of the service and the value society places on improved safety and self-efficacy.
Submesoscale variability on the edge of Kuroshio-shed eddy in the northern South China Sea observed by underwater gliders
Authors: Yang Haiyuan , Gao Zhiyuan , Ma Ke , Chen Zhaohui , Wang Yanhui , Jing Zhiyou , Ma Xin , Niu Wendong
Published: January 2024

Based on a submesoscale-resolving glider observation from April 25 to May 4, 2018, characteristics and underlying dynamics of submesoscale variability at the edge of an anticyclonic eddy shed from Kuroshio in the Northern South China Sea are explored in this study. Three underwater gliders traveled across the frontal zone and implemented ~ 300 dives, covering a horizontal distance of ~ 160 km and a vertical depth of ~ 500 m in 9 days. The character of k−2 slope for spectral potential energy and the strong lateral buoyancy gradient indicate frontogenesis-induced submesoscale motions on the eddy edge. Further analysis focusing on the potential vorticity and balanced Richardson number reveals the development of symmetric instability (SI), which is associated with the strong lateral gradient of buoyancy at the edge of the anticyclonic eddy in the late spring.
Decoding the regulatory landscape of lncRNAs as potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for gastric and colorectal cancers
Authors: Zabeti Touchaei Arefeh , Vahidi Sogand , Samadani Ali Akbar
Published: January 2024

Colorectal cancer (CRC) and gastric cancer (GC) are major contributors to cancer-related mortality worldwide. Despite advancements in understanding molecular mechanisms and improved drug treatments, the overall survival rate for patients remains unsatisfactory. Metastasis and drug resistance are major challenges contributing to the high mortality rate in both CRC and GC. Recent research has shed light on the role of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in the development and progression of these cancers. LncRNAs regulate gene expression through various mechanisms, including epigenetic modifications and interactions with microRNAs (miRNAs) and proteins. They can serve as miRNA precursors or pseudogenes, modulating gene expression at transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels. Additionally, circulating lncRNAs have emerged as non-invasive biomarkers for the diagnosis, prognosis, and prediction of drug therapy response in CRC and GC. This review explores the intricate relationship between lncRNAs and CRC/GC, encompassing their roles in cancer development, progression, and chemoresistance. Furthermore, it discusses the potential of lncRNAs as therapeutic targets in these malignancies. The interplay between lncRNAs, miRNAs, and tumor microenvironment is also highlighted, emphasizing their impact on the complexity of cancer biology. Understanding the regulatory landscape and molecular mechanisms governed by lncRNAs in CRC and GC is crucial for the development of effective diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers, as well as novel therapeutic strategies. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current knowledge and paves the way for further exploration of lncRNAs as key players in the management of CRC and GC.

Graphical Abstract
On the balanced truncation error bound and sign parameters from arrowhead realizations
Authors: Reiter Sean , Damm Tobias , Embree Mark , Gugercin Serkan
Published: January 2024

Balanced truncation and singular perturbation approximation for linear dynamical systems yield reduced order models that satisfy a well-known error bound involving the Hankel singular values. We show that this bound holds with equality for single-input, single-output systems, if the sign parameters corresponding to the truncated Hankel singular values are all equal. These signs are determined by a generalized state-space symmetry property of the corresponding linear model. For a special class of systems having arrowhead realizations, the signs can be determined directly from the off-diagonal entries of the corresponding arrowhead matrix. We describe how such arrowhead systems arise naturally in certain applications of network modeling and illustrate these results with a power system model that motivated this study.
Portia spider algorithm: an evolutionary computation approach for engineering application
Authors: Pham Vu Hong Son , Nguyen Dang Nghiep Trinh
Published: January 2024

The Portia spider, a notable member of the jumping spider family (Salticidae), is widely recognized for its intricate hunting strategies and remarkable problem-solving prowess. Several species fall under the “Portia” genus, with habitats spanning regions in Africa, Asia, and Australia. Demonstrating the ability to tackle new challenges, these spiders can learn and adapt their strategies based on prior experiences. This study introduces the Portia Spider Algorithm (PSA), a swarm-based technique inspired by the unique predatory strategies of the Portia spider. We conducted rigorous assessments of PSA performance against 23 classical test functions, 29 CEC2017 test cases, and 5 engineering optimization tasks. To demonstrate the effectiveness of the PSA, outcomes were juxtaposed with those of renowned algorithms. This paper explores the mechanics, advantages, and potential applications of PSA within the vast domain of computational optimization.

Graphical Abstract
Citizen scientists filling knowledge gaps of phosphate pollution dynamics in rural areas
Authors: Loiselle Steven , Bishop Isabel , Moorhouse Heather , Pilat Caroline , Koelman Eline , Nelson Rosie , Clymans Wim , Pratt John , Lewis Vaughn
Published: January 2024

In situ monitoring is fundamental to manage eutrophication in rivers and streams. However, in recent decades, the frequency and spatial coverage of regulatory monitoring have often been reduced due to funding and infrastructure limitations. This reduction has made it impossible to provide adequate coverage for most water bodies. In this study, trained citizen scientists filled spatial and temporal gaps in agency monitoring across a major catchment in rural England. By integrating data from citizen scientists, regulatory agencies, and the local water company, it was possible to demonstrate the opportunities for hypothesis-based citizen scientist monitoring to identify continuous and event-driven sources of phosphate pollution. Local citizen scientists effectively covered important spatial gaps, investigating river conditions both upstream and downstream of suspected pollution point sources, improving the identification of their temporal dynamics. When combined with long-term monitoring data from regulatory agencies, it became possible to identify areas within the catchment that exhibited increased phosphate concentrations during periods of low river discharge (summer). Inter-annual trends and anomaly detection suggested that continuous pollution sources dominated over event-driven sources in many sub-basins, allowing for the prioritisation of mitigation actions. This study highlights the opportunity for citizen scientists to fill gaps in regulatory monitoring efforts and contribute to the improved management of eutrophication in rural catchments.
Working for the environment: farmer attitudes towards sustainable farming actions in rural Wales, UK
Authors: Follett Elizabeth , Davis Lorna , Wilson Catherine , Cable Jo
Published: January 2024

Recognition of land management impacts on water quality and flooding, and climate change-induced increases in storm intensity and flood risk, have led to interest in farmer provision of ecosystem services alongside food production. However, pathways for practical design and funding of agroecological interventions are less well understood. Effective design and implementation of sustainable farming initiatives have been linked to human-centred aspects including stakeholder engagement and provision of social and economic co-benefits. To obtain information on Welsh farmer perspectives on sustainable farming actions and aid development of agroecological policy and design guidance, Welsh farmer perspectives on sustainable farming were obtained through discussion, online polls, and questionnaires. Participant-identified barriers to action included incorporation of return on initial time and cost investment in long-term farm budgets, occurrence of extreme weather events, and tenanted land. Decision-making processes were rooted in community discussion to balance perceived needs of the land and farm business, with communication preferences expressed for bilingual farm advice provision and support of farmer-to-farmer knowledge transfer pathways. In addition to responding to research questions, participants identified interdependent components of economic, social, cultural, and environmental sustainability necessary to achieve positive environmental outcomes, and expressed environmentally oriented farming identities linked to environmental guardianship and caretaking. Design of tree-planting schemes was discussed as an example of this interlinkage, with positive attitudes expressed for land sharing at small spatial scales, but not at the whole-farm scale.
Gravitational waves on charged black hole backgrounds in modified gravity
Authors: Barroso Varela Miguel , Rauch Hugo
Published: January 2024

The stability of Reissner–Nördstrom black holes with an extremal mass–charge relation was determined by calculating the propagation speed of gravitational waves on this background in an effective field theory (EFT) of gravity. New results for metric components are shown, along with the corresponding new extremal relation, part of which differs by a global factor of 2 from the past published work. This new relation further develops the existing constraints on EFT parameters. The radial propagation speed for gravitational waves in the Regge–Wheeler gauge was calculated linearly for all perturbations, yielding exact luminality for all dimension-4 operators. The dimension-6 radial speed modifications introduce no constraints on the sign of the modified theory parameters from causality arguments, while the deviation from classical theories vanishes at both horizons. The angular speed was found to be altered for the dimension-4 operators, with possible new constraints on the modified theory being suggested from causality arguments. Results are consistent with existing literature on Schwarzschild black hole backgrounds, with some EFT terms becoming active only in non-vacuum spacetimes such as Reissner–Nördstrom black holes.
The influence of lifestyle and biological factors on semen variability
Authors: Lyons Hannah E. , Gyawali Prabin , Mathews Nicola , Castleton Patience , Mutuku Shadrack M. , McPherson Nicole O.
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Semen parameters are subjected to within-individual variability over time. The driving factors for this variability are likely multi-factorial, with healthier lifestyle associated with better semen quality. The extent in which variations in individual’s lifestyle contributes to within-individual semen variability is unknown.

Methods

A total of 116 repeat semen samples from 29 men aged 19–37 over 6 months were collected. Basic semen analysis as per 5th WHO manual and extended semen parameters (sperm DNA fragmentation, redox potential and lipid peroxidation, sperm binding to hyaluronan and hyperactive motility) were assessed. An additional 39 lifestyle/biological factors (weight, blood pressure, etc.) were collected at each sample including validated health questionnaires SF36 Health Status, Australian Recommend Food Score, and International Physical Activity Questionnaire.

Results

Only 10 out of the 39 lifestyle factors varied within men across samples including age (P = 0.0024), systolic blood pressure (P = 0.0080), social functioning (P = 0.0340), energy (P = 0.0069), non-alcoholic caffeinated beverages (P = 0.0010), and nutrition (P < 0.0001). The only semen parameter that varied between collections was sperm morphology (coefficient of variation 23.8 (6.1–72.0), P < 0.05). We only observed weak (r < 0.3) to moderate (r > 0.3– < 0.6) correlations between lifestyle factors, including body mass index, waist circumference, nutrition, exercise, blood pressure and semen parameters including sperm count, progressive motility, and sperm DNA fragmentation (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

In healthy men from the general population, semen quality and associated lifestyle factors do not significantly vary over 6 months, indicating that one semen sample is likely sufficient for determining male fertility in this population.
Digital twin for product versus project lifecycles’ development in manufacturing and construction industries
Authors: Abanda F. H. , Jian N. , Adukpo S. , Tuhaise V. V. , Manjia M. B.
Published: January 2024

Digital twin, as an important enabling tool for digital transformation, has received increasing attention from researchers and practitioners since its definition was formalised. Especially in the global context and exacerbated by Covid-19, the applications of the digital twin have offered opportunities for many industries. While the digital twin has already been widely used in many sectors such as manufacturing and the construction industry—one of the key engines of economic development, is still lagging behind many other sectors. This study uses the systematic literature review to assess the applications of digital twin in manufacturing and construction respectively, the benefits it brings, and the impediments to its application. Based on this, a comparison is made of digital twin applications in the manufacturing and construction industries to draw lessons. This study concluded that although the use of digital twin in manufacturing is better than construction overall, it is still not reaching its full potential. Despite many benefits brought by the digital twin to construction during the project lifecycle, the construction sector faces even greater challenges than manufacturing in digital twin adoption. By comparison, this study drew five lessons to drive better adoption of the digital twin. The construction industry needs to accelerate the deployment of relevant hardware, promote the standard unification of digital twin, explore the whole lifecycle application of the digital twin, enhance data protection, and embrace changes. This study was limited in the scope of data collection. Future research could focus on gathering information from specific case studies, to produce more comprehensive perspectives.
Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices Towards COVID-19 Among Pregnant and Postpartum Women in Rural Bangladesh: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Gunawardhana Gayani , Rokonuzzaman S. M. , Islam Sajia , Alarm Neeloy , Ferdous Tarana E , Kirkwood Elizabeth K , Raynes-Greenow Camille , Billah Sk Masum
Published: January 2024

Objective

To identify knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward COVID-19 among pregnant and postpartum women in rural Bangladesh, and to assess any association with antenatal care attendance (ANC).

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted in Northern Bangladesh’s Sherpur district with a sample of pregnant and post-partum women enrolled in ‘Poriborton’, a community-based cluster Randomised Controlled Trial. Knowledge, attitude, and practices toward COVID-19, and any association with antenatal care practices were assessed through face-to-face interviews using a structured questionnaire. Composite measures for knowledge, attitude, and practices of COVID-19 were generated. Specific knowledge on COVID-19 and the association of antenatal care were presented as descriptive statistics. An adjusted odds ratio was used to examine the association between categorical variables.

Results

Out of 4835 women, 34.0% correctly identified five or more COVID-19 symptoms, 31.8% knew three or more modes of coronavirus transmission, and 57.0% knew five or more preventive measures. Most (90.1%) had a “more positive attitude to testing” and 65.1% reported adequate practice of preventive measures. Women with adequate knowledge of COVID-19 were more likely to report both a positive attitude to testing (OR:2.96; 95% CI: 1.38–6.37) and adopt adequate practices of preventive measures (OR: 4.30;95% CI: 2.90–6.36). Education and being employed influenced KAP related to COVID-19. Only 14.9% were satisfied with their knowledge of COVID-19. Television was the main source of COVID-19-related specific information.

Conclusions

We found that improved knowledge was associated with positive attitudes and behaviours that lead to the adoption of preventive measures. There was no association with ANC practices as attendance was very low in this region. The findings could be utilised to develop communication strategies for future public health emergencies in similar settings.
How to exploit Augmented Reality (AR) technology in patient customized surgical tools: a focus on osteotomies
Authors: Ulrich Luca , Salerno Federico , Moos Sandro , Vezzetti Enrico
Published: January 2024

In orthopedic surgery and maxillofacial there is a growing use of augmented reality (AR) as a technology to increase the visual perception of the surgeon in the operating room. The objective of this review is to analyze the state of the art in the use of AR for osteotomies, highlighting the advantages and the most-known open issues to be addressed in the future research. Scopus, Web of Science, Pubmed and IEEE Xplore databases have been explored with a keyword search, setting the time limits from January 2017 to January 2023, inclusive. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines has been used in this review, focusing on anatomical districts, real-virtual environment interaction, advantaged and limitations of existing AR-based applications. 49 articles met the inclusion criteria and have been selected in the final analysis. For the sake of clarity, works have been grouped according to the anatomical district, but also the real-virtual environment interaction methodology was reported, as well as information regarding accuracy assessment. A Quality Function Deployment (QFD) has been used to assess the AR-based solutions with regards to the more traditional freehand (FH) and Patient Specific Template (PST) approaches. Finally, some suggestions to foster the AR-based solution adoption in osteotomies treatment have been drawn, considering the highlighted advantages and limitations of this technology. The AR resulted to meet the surgeons’ needs more than other traditional approaches. Among the emerged advantages, AR can lead to a better surgical field accessibility, more flexible solutions and lower the management effort. Nonetheless, future research should address some well-known issues, among which the calibration time, the robustness of the tracking, and the HMDs discomfort.
Spatial distribution of wildfire threat in the far north: exposure assessment in boreal communities
Authors: Schmidt Jennifer I. , Ziel Robert H. , Calef Monika P. , Varvak Anna
Published: January 2024

Increased wildfire activity has raised concerns among communities about how to assess and prepare for this threat. There is a need for wildfire hazard assessment approaches that capture local variability to inform decisions, produce results understood by the public, and are updatable in a timely manner. We modified an existing approach to assess decadal wildfire hazards based primarily on ember dispersal and wildfire proximity, referencing landscape changes from 1984 through 2014. Our modifications created a categorical flammability hazard scheme, rather than dichotomous, and integrated wildfire exposure results across spatial scales. We used remote sensed land cover from four historical decadal points to create flammability hazard and wildfire exposure maps for three arctic communities (Anchorage and Fairbanks, Alaska and Whitehorse, Yukon). Within the Fairbanks study area, we compared 2014 flammability hazard, wildfire exposure, and FlamMap burn probabilities among burned (2014–2023) and unburned areas. Unlike burn probabilities, there were significantly higher in exposure values among burned and unburned locations (Wilcoxon; p < 0.001) and exposure rose as flammability hazard classes increased (Kruskal–Wallis; p < 0.001). Very high flammability hazard class supported 75% of burned areas and burns tended to occur in areas with 60% exposure or greater. Areas with high exposure values are more prone to burn and thus desirable for mitigation actions. By working with wildfire practitioners and communities, we created a tool that rapidly assesses wildfire hazards and is easily modified to help identify and prioritize mitigation activities.
Extension of the multiphysical magic formula tire model for ride comfort applications
Authors: Barbaro Mario , Genovese Andrea , Timpone Francesco , Sakhnevych Aleksandr
Published: January 2024

In the development of physical tire models, the complexity of the composite structure and the multiphysical variables require strongly nonlinear mathematical formulations to guarantee a desired degree of accuracy. The aim of the current work is to extend the applicability of the multiphysical magic formula-based tire model, already developed and presented by the authors, within a wider frequency range, interposing a rigid ring body between the contact patch and the wheel hub. The contact patch, varying in terms of size, shape, and relative position, is evaluated using instantaneous cams to define the effective plane. Here the advanced slip model, taking into account thermodynamic and wear effects, is then integrated. The adopted formulations have been mathematically and physically justified. They have been analytically compared to formulations related to the rigid-ring implementation available in the literature. Specific experimental activities concerning both the tire’s vertical kinematics and dynamics have been conducted to demonstrate the model’s improved physical consistency on small wavelength unevennesses.
Distribution-Path Dependent Nonlinear SPDEs with Application to Stochastic Transport Type Equations
Authors: Ren Panpan , Tang Hao , Wang Feng-Yu
Published: January 2024

By using a regularity approximation argument, the global existence and uniqueness are derived for a class of nonlinear SPDEs depending on both the whole history and the distribution under strong enough noise. As applications, the global existence and uniqueness are proved for distribution-path dependent stochastic transport type equations, which are arising from stochastic fluid mechanics with forces depending on the history and the environment. In particular, the distribution-path dependent stochastic Camassa-Holm equation with or without Coriolis effect has a unique global solution when the noise is strong enough, whereas for the deterministic model wave-breaking may occur. This indicates that the noise may prevent blow-up almost surely.