bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stochastic Nonlinear Model Updating in Structural Dynamics Using a Novel Likelihood Function within the Bayesian-MCMC Framework
Authors: Pandey Pushpa , Khodaparast Hamed Haddad , Friswell Michael Ian , Chatterjee Tanmoy , Madinei Hadi , Deighan Tom
Published: May 2024

The study presents a novel approach for stochastic nonlinear model updating in structural dynamics, employing a Bayesian framework integrated with Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) sampling for parameter estimation by using an approximated likelihood function. The proposed methodology is applied to both numerical and experimental cases. The paper commences by introducing Bayesian inference and its constituents: the likelihood function, prior distribution, and posterior distribution. The resonant decay method is employed to extract backbone curves, which capture the non-linear behavior of the system. A mathematical model based on a single degree of freedom (SDOF) system is formulated, and backbone curves are obtained from time response data. Subsequently, MCMC sampling is employed to estimate the parameters using both numerical and experimental data. The obtained results demonstrate the convergence of the Markov chain, present parameter trace plots, and provide estimates of posterior distributions of updated parameters along with their uncertainties. Experimental validation is performed on a cantilever beam system equipped with permanent magnets and electromagnets. The proposed methodology demonstrates promising results in estimating parameters of stochastic non-linear dynamical systems. Through the use of the proposed likelihood functions using backbone curves, the probability distributions of both linear and non-linear parameters are simultaneously identified. Based on this view, the necessity to segregate stochastic linear and non-linear model updating is eliminated.
Education spread and economic development: Portugal 1981-2021
Authors: Pontes José Pedro
Published: May 2024

We try to rationalize the fact that a positive correlation between higher education attainment and aggregate productivity becomes less clear as a higher share people completes college. For that purpose, we model this situation by means of a coordination (Stag Hunt) game, where a youngster obtains the benefit of higher education only if there is a critical mass of students.
During the initial stage the net reward of higher education is high, so that the Nash equilibrium with general enrolment is selected. As compulsory education is raised, the wage premium of attaining college decreases and furthermore universities that expand to low density regions become less efficient as they face increasing diseconomies of scale in their operation.
The decrease in the net reward of graduates is multiplied by the fact that the strategy of avoiding higher education becomes “risk-dominant” in Harsanyi and Selten (1988)’s terms. This fact likely causes a coordination breakdown, where the share of people with a complete university degree may possibly rise despite the output per worker decreases.
This socially undesirable outcome can be avoided through a policy aimed at enhancing the college network through its geographical concentration. For this purpose, the relocation of a significant share of students appears to be necessary.
JEL codes: C72, I25, 015, R11
Awareness campaign to improve Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices relating to air pollution and its health impact: the case of “Air sain” campaign in Medina (Senegal)
Authors: Daffe Mouhamadou Lamine , NDONG Awa , THIAM Salimata , SYLLA Fatou Kiné , CORREA Ndeye Amy , BAH Fatoumata , LAM Absa , NGOM Cheikh Saliou , Cabral Mathilde , DIOP Cheikh , TOURE Aminata , LO Masse , Faye Adama , FALL Mamadou
Published: May 2024

Air pollution is the underlying cause of 7 million premature deaths per year. In Dakar (Senegal), monitoring of air pollution indicators often reveals levels well above the guideline values. This context justified an awareness campaign called “Air Sain” in Medina (Dakar) to improve the Knowledges, Attitudes and Practices relating to air pollution and its health impact. This study aimed to assess the impact of this campaign in order to produce factual data that could motivate its replicability in other localities. It is a before-after study, which compared a baseline situation of KAPs to “Air sain” post-campaign situation. It was measured after Propensity Scores Matching by logistic regression, using R software. The only results pointing in the direction of an improvement concern the knowledge of health risks related to air pollution: the Odds Ratio and its 95% Confidence Interval are in favor of “Air sain” campaign and estimated at 3.31 [1.4–8.34]. As regards to the results, the campaign could be extended to other localities for a better awareness of the health risks related to air pollution. However, it is necessary to adapt the messages conveyed on polluting practices and air degradation factors in order to obtain better results.
Creating more efficiency in malaria program funds: a business case for Connected Diagnostics in Kenya
Authors: Dieteren Charlotte , Millimo Emmanuel , Siteyi Angela , Duijn Shannen van , Stijvers Leon , Dayo Lilyana , Ganda Gregory , de Wit Tobias Rinke
Published: May 2024

Objective
There is a need to reduce inefficient service delivery caused by parallel financing streams. In this paper we aim to assess the opportunities offered by digitalized diagnostics to target and monitor health funds to those in need objectively and transparently.
Methods
In this study we used the malaria case to demonstrate the ConnDx process codeveloped with the local Department of Health of Kisumu, Kenya. We used quantitative data to demonstrate how an ConnDx approach can contribute to manage malaria health funds with markedly increased transparency. We also calculate the costs for ConnDx and standard care to assess potential cost reductions.
Results
ConnDx was rolled out in five private healthcare facilities and detected 2,199 malaria cases among 11,689 patients with fever. ConnDx allowed for the identification of malaria hotspots, semi-real-time assessment of patient health seeking behavior across facilities, and insights in doctor’s prescription behavior, vis a vis National Guidelines. Based on these insights, we demonstrate that a 25% reduction in costs can be realized, while simultaneously better-quality indicators can be monitored and put into quality improvement action.
Conclusion
The concept of ConnDx can in principle be used for any medical condition that can be diagnosed in a digital manner and linked to mobile payment systems. This can help decision makers in LMICs to channel disease-specific funds to the right patients for the right disease at the right time, which can potentially accelerate the way to universal health coverage.
Decoding the Hypertension Care Cascade and Unlocking Influential Factors Among Indian Adolescents: Evidence from Nationally representative Cross-sectional survey
Authors: Basu Saurav , Roy Shubhanjali , Malik Mansi
Published: May 2024

Adolescent hypertension in India is an emergent public health concern due to a combination of increasing obesity, poor nutrition, sedentary lifestyles, and genetics with lack of programmatic focus on regular screening secondary to reduced perceived risk, both amongst individuals and healthcare providers. This study aims assess the hypertension care cascade and their determinants among older adolescents in India. We used data from the demographic and health surveillance (DHS) comprising India’s National Family Health Survey Fifth Round (2019–2021). The hypertension prevalence, proportions of aware, on treatment, and under control among adolescents in the age group of 15–19 years were reported, along with (95% CI) and statistically significance (p < 0.05). The prevalence of hypertension among 204054 older adolescents (15–19 years) was 5.08% (95% CI: 4.94–5.23%) wherein 42.26% (95% CI: 40.69–43.64%) were aware of their condition while 43.70% (95% CI: 41.73–45.70%) of those aware were receiving treatment, and 85.88% (95% CI: 83.83–87.71%) of those achieved blood pressure control. Overall, there were nearly 60% newly diagnosed hypertension cases detected on screening. In conclusion, nearly five in every hundred older adolescents in India are clinically hypertensive with significantly higher odds linked with obesity and male gender. Awareness and utilization of antihypertensive treatment was lower than the classical rule of halves signifying deficiencies in hypertension screening and management strategies for older adolescents within existing public health policy.
Evolutionary sequence and structural basis for the distinct conformational landscapes of Tyr and Ser/Thr kinases
Authors: Levy Ronald , Gizzio Joan , Thakur Abhishek , Haldane Allan
Published: May 2024

Protein kinases are molecular machines with rich sequence variation that distinguishes the two main evolutionary branches – tyrosine kinases (TKs) from serine/threonine kinases (STKs). Using a sequence co-variation Potts statistical energy model we previously concluded that TK catalytic domains are more likely than STKs to adopt an inactive conformation with the activation loop in an autoinhibitory “folded” conformation, due to intrinsic sequence effects. Here we investigated the structural basis for this phenomenon by integrating the sequence-based model with structure-based molecular dynamics (MD) to determine the effects of mutations on the free energy difference between active and inactive conformations, using a novel thermodynamic cycle involving many (n=108) protein-mutation free energy perturbation (FEP) simulations in the active and inactive conformations. The sequence and structure-based results are consistent and support the hypothesis that the inactive conformation “DFG-out Activation Loop Folded”, is a functional regulatory state that has been stabilized in TKs relative to STKs over the course of their evolution via the accumulation of residue substitutions in the activation loop and catalytic loop that facilitate distinct substrate binding modes in trans and additional modes of regulation in cis for TKs.
Unraveling the Impact of Transactional Leadership on Task Performance: The Mediating Role of Self-Efficacy among Bank Employees
Authors: Javed Aziz , Ali Sadaqat , Goh Gerald Guan Gan , Saif Naveed , Shaheen Imrab , Khan Sajid Ullah
Published: May 2024

The major objective of the current study was to investigate the dynamic relationship between Banking Sector Transactional leadership and employees task performance through mediating role of employee’s self-efficacy based on Bandura’s Social Cognitive Theory. For this purpose, data was collected from selected banks in KP Pakistan and data was collected through construct. Results were analysed through CFA via AMOS and Preacher and Hayes mediational modelling. Results indicate that Transactional leadership has significant relationship with employer’s task performance as well as their self-efficacy. Further it was evident that self-efficacy mediates the relationship between employee’s task performance and leader’s transactional behaviour. The current study obtained data from limited employees of banking sector and only selected districts of KP province. The results have practical implication for banking sector to enhance employs task performance capabilities via infusing the feeling of self-efficacy through reward and punishment based leadership.
Time-Optimal Trajectory Planning of Manipulator Based on Terminal Crossover and Steering-based PSO with Disturbance
Authors: Li Lei , Xu JiaWei , Wang Jianhua
Published: May 2024

In the contemporary shipbuilding industry, the utilization of manipulator operations has progressively supplanted traditional manual labor. In pursuit of enhancing both efficiency and stability of manipulator operations, this study proposes a trajectory planning methodology. Specifically, a 5-7-5 polynomial interpolation function is devised to accurately map trajectories within the joint space of the manipulator. Subsequently, a constrained optimization model is formulated, aiming to optimize the movement time of the manipulator. To address the optimization challenge, the constrained problem is reformulated into an unconstrained one leveraging the augmented Lagrange multiplier method. To circumvent the risk of local optima, the Terminal Crossover and Steering-based PSO with disturbance (TCSPSO) is adopted for problem-solving. Subsequently, comprehensive simulation experiments are conducted in MATLAB to ascertain the optimal motion time and achieve a smooth motion trajectory for the manipulator. The findings underscore the efficacy of the proposed methodology in significantly reducing the movement time of manipulators while concurrently ensuring their operational stability.
Impact of Discrepant Accumulations Strategy on Collective Cooperation in Multilayer Networks
Authors: He Xi , Ge Xin , Yang Jian , Zhao YiXiang , Liu Yue , Li Lili
Published: May 2024

Understanding large-scale cooperation among related individuals has been one of the largest challenges. Since humans are in multiple social networks, the theoretical framework of multilayer networks is perfectly suited for studying this fascinating aspect of our biology. To that effect, we here study the cooperation in evolutionary game on interdependent networks. Importantly, a part of players are set to adopt Discrepant Accumulations Strategy. Players employing this mechanism not only use their payoffs in the multilayer network as the basis for the updating process as in previous experiments, but also take into account the similarities and differences in strategies across different layers. Monte Carlo simulations demonstrate that considering the similarities and differences in strategies across layers when calculating fitness can significantly enhance the cooperation level in the system. By examining the behavior of different pairing mode within cooperators and defectors, the equilibrium state can be attributed to the evolution of correlated pairing mode between interdependent networks. Our results provide a theoretical analysis of the group cooperation induced by the Discrepant Accumulations Strategy. And we also discuss potential implications of these findings for future human experiments concerning the cooperation on multilayer networks.
Revealing the interface-driven atomic local chemical heterogeneity in bimetallic catalysts in three dimensions
Authors: Zhou Jihan , Xie Jisheng , Xie Zhiheng , Li Zezhou , Dai Yiheng , Zhang Yao , Bu Yifan , Liu Chuhao , Jiang Hong , Li Mufan
Published: May 2024

Subsurface atomic configurations exert a profound influence on the surface electronic structures, thereby playing a critical role in electrocatalysis. However, an in-depth understanding of intricate three-dimensional surface/subsurface structures in catalysts remain limited due to the weak interfacial signal and the inherent complexity in local structural and compositional nuances. Here, by determining the entirety of surface and subsurface atomic structures in Pd@Pt model catalysts through atomic-resolution electron tomography, our investigation reveals the pivotal role of atomic-scale local chemical heterogeneity, driven by atomic interfacial diffusion at the core-shell interface, in modulating the electronic structures and consequently tuning the catalytic behaviors in electrocatalytic ethanol oxidation reaction. Density functional theory calculations further elucidate that the atomically interfacial diffusion notably enhances OH adsorption energy at Pt sites while decreases CO adsorption energy at Pd sites on the surface by shifting the d-band center. These results broaden the existing paradigm of atomic interplay between surface and subsurface realms in bimetallic catalysts at fundamental level, offering valuable information for efficient catalyst design.
Age-related polygenic effects of Alzheimer's disease on brain structures and cognition in middle aged and elderly adults from UK Biobank
Authors: Ni Shu , Chen Haojie , Dong Xinyi , Wang Kexin , Feng Guozheng , Wang Yichen , Zhang Mingkai , Gan Kaiyu , Huang Weijie , Ma Guolin , Zhang Zhanjun
Published: May 2024

The aetiology of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) involves multiple genes and their interactions, and the polygenetic risk score for AD (AD-PRS) offers a genome-wide assessment of an individual's risk for developing AD. Despite previous suggestions of the polygenic influences on brain structures in cognitively intact ageing populations, the dynamic effects of the AD-PRS on brain structures and cognition throughout the ageing process have not been sufficiently quantified. Here, we analysed data from 29,645 cognitively intact UK Biobank participants. Using a model-free sliding window approach, we revealed that individuals with high AD-PRS exhibited smaller brain structures compared to those with low AD-PRS, with these differences increasing with age in specific brain regions (|ρ| > 0.8, pFDR<0.001). Notable age-related differences were observed in the volumes of the thalamus and hippocampus, as well as the microstructural integrity of the fornix and cingulum. These differences were observed to emerge around the age of 60 and reach approximately 5% difference after the age of 75. Furthermore, the associations between AD-PRS and cognitive performances were mediated by brain structures, with these mediating effects becoming more pronounced with ageing. Additionally, complex interactions between AD-PRS and age on brain structures were observed for specific apolipoprotein E (APOE) genotypes. Our findings underscore the involvement of the hippocampal-thalamic regions in the age-related associations between the AD-PRS and cognitive functions among cognitively normal ageing individuals. This study provides insights into the early screening and intervention strategies leveraging AD-PRS.
Polymorphism of Hippodamia variegata (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) and its population changes in the Sarakhs region of Iran
Authors: Jahangashteh Iman , Ajamhassani Maryam , Shadmehri Ali Derakhshan , Aalaoui Mohamed El
Published: May 2024

Ladybirds, as the main predators of aphids, coccids, psyllids, and egg of pests, are considered an important group for polymorphism studies. The ladybird, Hippodamia variegata (Goeze) has been identified as a polymorphic species. This study examines the polymorphism of H. variegata in the Sarakhs region, Iran. Sampling was conducted weekly between March and July in 2021 and 2022, collecting ladybirds from various plant species including fruit and fruitless trees, farms, and shrubs. Samples were collected using insect nets and white trays, then transferred to small glasses containing 70% alcohol for laboratory analysis and identification based on external morphological characteristics and male genitalia. Different polymorphisms of H. variegata were isolated based on morphological features such as pattern, number, and size of spots on the elytra, as well as the color of the elytra and pronotum. A total of 22 polymorphisms were identified, categorized into ten groups. The population of H. variegatawas examined in relation to ambient temperature. The peak population of males and females in 2021 was observed on April 30th and May 21st, and on April 8th and May 1st in 2022. The mean temperature at the peak time for males in both years was around 28-33 °C, while for females, it was approximately 35°C. As the temperature increased to 40 °C and higher, the ladybird population trend descended, indicating a direct impact of climatic conditions on the frequency of this species.
Relationship between oxidative balance score and serum Klotho concentrations in adults aged 40-79 years
Authors: Sun Qingqing , Wu Lanxiang , Tian Sheng , Zheng Heqing , Liu Mingxu , Yu Xinping , Wu Wei
Published: May 2024

Background
Klotho is a well-known anti-aging and antioxidant protein, however, the association between oxidative balance score (OBS), a comprehensive measure that assesses the individual’s oxidative balance, and serum Klotho concentrations is unclear. The purpose of this study was to explore the association between OBS and serum Klotho concentrations through a cross-sectional analysis of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2007 to 2016.
Methods
Serum Klotho concentrations were measured using an ELISA kit that is commercially available. OBS was scored by 16 dietary and 4 lifestyle factors. Weighted multiple linear regression models, subgroup analysis, and restricted cubic spline (RCS) analysis were used to assess the association between OBS and serum Klotho concentrations.
Results
A total of 8925 individuals who met the criteria were selected as eligible participants for the study. After adjusting for possible confounding factors, with the first quintile of OBS Q1(4–15) as a reference, the percentage change of serum Klotho concentrations in Q4(26–37) of OBS was 0.93% higher (95% CI:0.13%,1.73%). Serum Klotho concentrations rose by 0.40%(95% CI:0.09%,0.71%) with every standard deviation(SD) rose in OBS. In older, and over-weight participants, the subgroup analysis revealed a strong association between OBS and serum Klotho levels. Furthermore, the relationship between OBS and serum Klotho concentrations showed a linear positive association(nonlinear, p = 0.337).
Conclusions
A higher OBS is significantly associated with a higher level of serum Klotho among middle-aged and older people in the US.
Feasibility study for high-aspect ratio copper pin mounting using particle dynamics simulation with stochastic approach
Authors: Lee Kwang-Hee , Ahn Geunsik , Lee Chul-Hee
Published: May 2024

Since the demand of advanced packaging for semiconductor industry becomes higher for smaller and thinner applications such as mobile phone, wearable devices, etc., adapting high-aspect ratio of pin in packaging becomes more important. As the aspect ratio of pin becomes bigger, it is challenging to mount pins on the substrate under high speed. Novel mounting method for pin mounting is suggested but its mounting efficiency is possibly affected by mask dimensions. Two criteria are proposed to evaluate the mounting efficiency and calculated to validate the results from the simulation results in stochastic approach. Three design parameters are considered for the analysis and simulations are conducted. Simulations results show similar tendency compared to the calculation of criteria, mounting angle, and ratio. The highest mounting efficiency is observed when the hole diameter of a mask is increased. These results can be used to design a mask with various aspect-ratio of pins for packaging.
Successful coronary angioplasty of a spontaneous occlusion of the conus artery causing a ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction and electrical storm
Authors: Hatoum Ibrahim , RICCINI Philippe
Published: May 2024

Background Conus artery occlusion is a rare life-threatening event, typically secondary to iatrogenic etiology, and treated mainly with conservative therapy and/or balloon angioplasty without stenting. However, treatment remains challenging.Case presentation: We report the case of a 60 years old man with known history of coronary artery disease presenting with multiple internal defibrillator cardioversion due to electrical storm (recurrent ventricular fibrillation). The coronary angiography showed an acute occlusion of the conus artery arising from the proximal segment of the right coronary artery, treated by percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty with stenting (drug-eluting stent) without any serious complications.Conclusions To our knowledge, this is the first case in literature where a non-iatrogenic occlusion of the conus artery causing a ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction and electrical storm was treated with percutaneous coronary intervention with drug-eluting stenting.
A study protocol for the CHinA National CancEr Screening (CHANCES) Trial: a randomized controlled study to compare the screening strategies for lung cancer and colorectal cancer
Authors: Gao Yibo , Hu Ping , Wu Ning , Tan Fengwei , Cao Wei , Tang Wei , Li Xin , Wen Yan , Li Jiang , Wang Fei , Xu Yongjie , Yu Yiwen , Qin Chao , Dong Xuesi , Ren Jiansong , Yang Zhuoyu , Zheng Yadi , Wu Zheng , Pinsky Paul , Prorok Philip , Taylor Martina , Dai Min , Li Ni , Kramer Barnett , He Jie
Published: May 2024

Background: Cancer screening strategies play a crucial role in early detection and subsequent management of lung cancer and colorectal cancer. However, there remains a paucity of high-quality evidence from developing regions. The CHinA National CancEr Screening (CHANCES) Trial aims to comprehensively evaluate and compare different screening strategies for lung cancer and colorectal cancer (CRC) in the Chinese population.
Methods: The CHANCES trial is a randomized controlled trial aimed at assessing the effectiveness of screening using low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) either annually or biennially for reducing lung cancer-specific mortality. Additionally, our trial seeks to evaluate the efficacy of various screening strategies for CRC. In this 5-year project, a total of 99,000 participants aged 50-74 from 25 provinces will be enrolled and randomized into one of three arms: i) receiving five annual LDCT scans along with a single colonoscopy (n=19,800); ii) undergoing three biennial LDCT scans and five annual fecal blood tests using fecal immunochemical testing (FIT) (n=39,600); iii) opting for either a single colonoscopy or five annual FIT tests (n=39,600). Participants with positive FIT findings will be recommended to undergo a diagnostic colonoscopy. The primary endpoint of this study is lung cancer-specific mortality, and cost-effectiveness analyses of the various screening strategies in the Chinese population are also planned.
Discussion: To our knowledge, this trial represents the first endeavor statistically powered to assess the potential reduction in lung-cancer-specific mortality through screening with LDCT annually or biennially compared to a no screening arm. Additionally, it seeks to explore the feasibility of integrating lung cancer and CRC screening in a developing nation setting. The anticipated findings from this study hold the potential to provide evidence-based recommendations for cancer screening programs, thereby advancing cancer prevention and control efforts not only in China but also globally.
Trial registration: ChiCTRN(Chinese Clinical Trial Registry Number), ChiCTR1900025257. Registered on 2019-08-18.
CO 2 desorption characteristics on zeolite-A, X and CMS under different regeneration conditions
Authors: Tang Jianfeng , Wen Xiaojin , Zhang Xue , Sun Yunbing , Sun Yongbiao , Su Hexin
Published: May 2024

The desorption characteristics of CO2 are directly related to the time allocation and tower size design during adsorption process, but there is a lack of studies on CO2 desorption characteristics of on molecular sieves under different regeneration conditions. In order to analyze the factors (adsorbents and operation conditions) influence CO2 desorption efficiency and explore adsorbents regeneration characteristics, combining with adsorbents framework structure, this article tracked performance of CO2 desorption on zeolite-A, X and CMS-240 under different heating temperature, purging speed and vacuum pressure. It was found that CMS-240 without crystal structure could realize ideal CO2 desorption performance under all regeneration conditions. And for 13X, 5A and 4A molecular sieves with octahedral structure, better regeneration effect could be realized under heating conditions and vacuum 100 KPa, pore-network size contributes more than cation type and position during this process. Besides, for purging regeneration process, the total amount of blowing gas determines adsorbent regeneration rate rather than a single factor of time or gas velocity.
Two-scale concurrent topology optimization of lattice structures with multiple microstructures subjected to dynamic load
Authors: jiang xudong , qi jiawei , teng xiaoyan
Published: May 2024

This work intends to present a two-scale concurrent topology optimization method for minimizing the compliance of lattice structures with multiple connectable microstructures under time-dependent dynamic load. Firstly, at the macroscale, the ordered solid isotropic material with penalization (SIMP) method and double smoothing and projection method is integrated to identify the macrostructural layout of any lattice material represented by a unique microstructure, i.e. optimal locations of microstructures. At the microscale, the connectivity between any pair of microstructures is guaranteed by adopting the designable connective region method. Then, for transient optimization problem, we implement the sensitivity analysis based on the adjoint method with the “discretize-then-differentiate” approach, which inherently generates consistent sensitivities. Moreover, we develop a decoupled sensitivity analysis method for transient concurrent topology optimization problems with multiple connectable microstructures for computationally efficient sensitivity analysis at the microscale. Finally, serval numerical examples are presented to verify the effectiveness and the capability of the proposed approach.
The inadequacy of statistical approaches to estimate yield potential and gaps at regional level
Authors: Grassini Patricio , Couëdel Antoine , Lollato Romulo , Archontoulis Sotirios , Tenorio Fatima , Aramburu-Merlos Fernando , Edreira Juan Ignacio Rattalino
Published: May 2024

Spatial information on yield potential is key to determine crop production potential on existing cropland. Although statistical methods are widely used to estimate yield potential and yield gaps at regional to global levels, a rigorous evaluation of their performance is lacking. Here, we compared outcomes from three common statistical approaches against those derived from a ‘bottom-up’ approach based on crop modeling and local weather and soil data for major crops in the United States. Our analysis revealed that statistical methods failed to capture the spatial variation in yield potential, consistently under- or over-estimating yield gaps across various regions. The statistical methods led to conflicting results for decision-making, with production potential almost doubling from one method to another. Given these limitations, we advocate for the use of well-validated process-based crop models coupled with local data and robust spatial frameworks, which provide a more reliable assessment of crop production potential from local to regional scales.
Altered hippocampal effective connectivity predicts BMI and food approach behavior in children with obesity
Authors: Chen Hong , Li Wei , Chen Ximei , Pang Qingge , Gao Xiao , Guo Cheng , Song Shiqing , Liu Yong , Shi Pan
Published: May 2024

Objective
The vicious circle model of obesity proposes that the hippocampus plays a crucial role in food reward processing and obesity. However, few studies focused on whether and how pediatric obesity influences the potential direction of information exchange between hippocampus and key regions, as well as whether these alterations in neural interaction could predict future BMI and eating behaviors.
Methods
In this longitudinal study, a total of 39 children with overweight/obesity and 51 children with normal weight, aged 8 to 12, underwent resting-state fMRI. One year later, we conducted follow-up assessments of eating behaviors and BMI. Resting-state functional connectivity (FC) and spectral dynamic casual modeling technique were used to examine altered functional and effective connectivity (EC) of the hippocampus in children with overweight/obesity. Linear support vector regression, a machine learning method, was employed to investigate whether hippocampal connections at baseline could predict future BMI and eating behaviors.
Results
Compared to controls, children with overweight/obesity displayed abnormal bidirectional inhibitory effects between the right hippocampus and left postcentral gyrus (PoCG), namely, stronger inhibitory EC from the hippocampus to PoCG but weaker inhibitory EC from the PoCG to hippocampus, which further predicted BMI and food approach behavior one year later.
Conclusion
These findings suggest that imbalanced information exchange in the appetitive reward circuitry between the hippocampus to somatosensory cortex may be a sensitive neurobiomarker for childhood obesity and future food approach behavior, which expands the vicious circle model of obesity by revealing the crucial role of hippocampal undirectional and directional connections in childhood obesity. This study is essential for developing effective intervention strategies and for reducing long-term health-care costs associated with obesity.
Enhancing Intrusion Detection in IoT Systems Through Simulated Attack Scenarios
Authors: NEILY Marwa , JEMILI Farah , KORBAA Ouajdi
Published: May 2024

The Internet of Things (IoT) landscape is fraught with vulnerabilities, making it a prime target for various types of attacks. While existing literature has extensively explored IoT attacks through studies and simulations, this paper introduces a fresh perspective by proposing a new methodology for testing attacks in IoT environments. Focusing on six prominent attack vectors, we conduct comprehensive tests using both the Cooja and OMNET + + simulators. Our research delves into the underlying factors driving these attacks, analyzing data based on the attackers' chosen target addresses. Through our novel approach, we aim to deepen the understanding of IoT vulnerabilities and provide insights into the behavior of attackers, ultimately paving the way for more effective defense mechanisms in IoT ecosystems.
Severe fetal distress and acute maternal pancreatitis secondary to severe hypertriglyceridemia: A case report.
Authors: Garin Charlotte , Bridier-Petit Agathe , Ménard Sophie , Lamy Clotilde
Published: May 2024

- Background : Acute pancreatitis during pregnancy is a rare condition and a potential cause of maternal-fetal mortality. Its diagnosis can be challenging. Hypertriglyceridemia is one of the causes. We describe a case of severe fetal distress in the third trimester of pregnancy, associated with severe hypertriglyceridemia complicated by acute pancreatitis.
- Case presentation : A 35-year-old pregnant patient at 36 weeks gestation presented to the emergency department with acute epigastric pain. After excluding preeclampsia and initially challenging laboratory analyses, a diagnosis of acute pancreatitis was made based on a lipase level 12 times the normal range. The etiology was hypertriglyceridemia at 40 times the normal level. Despite initial conservative management, the patient deteriorated rapidly clinically, and severe fetal distress necessitated an emergency cesarean section. Lactescent blood appearance was observed intraoperatively. We suspect that the severe and rapid hypertriglyceridemia may have caused acute fetal hypoxia.
- Conclusions : Acute pancreatitis during pregnancy is a rare condition, with significant maternal-fetal mortality. Early diagnosis remains challenging. A multidisciplinary approach is necessary for optimal management, with special consideration for rapid fetal delivery in cases of acute pancreatitis secondary to hypertriglyceridemia due to the increased risk of fetal mortality.
Gradient thickness-dependent distribution of residual stress and springback of thin-walled TC4 titanium alloy sheet with variable thickness in collaborative manufacturing process of pre-plastic forming and milling
Authors: SHU Yiquan , REN Junxue , ZHANG Wenbo , LIU Wengang
Published: May 2024

Thin-walled sheet components with variable thickness and complex curved surface are expanding considerably in the advanced manufacturing field of aerospace industry due to its aerodynamic shape and light-weight characteristics, and collaborative manufacturing method of pre-plastic forming and milling was used to solve the problems of low rough milling efficiency and large milling difficult of such components. However, the structural characteristics of thin-walled and variable thickness brought the problems of residual stress and springback after pre-plastic forming, which impacted the milling quality and increased milling allowance in subsequent milling. In this work, based on three-point bending tests of thin-walled TC4 titanium alloy sheets with different ratio of thickness variation (ζ) and its Finite Element Analyze (FEA), gradient thickness-dependent distribution of residual stress and springback after pre-plastic forming was systematically studied. The results showed that with the ζ increasing from 1 to 6, difference of residual stress (Δσres) between both sides increased from 0 to 356.81 MPa, difference of springback (ΔS) between both sides increased 0 to 0.23 mm, and Springback Angle (SA) increased from 11.02 ° to 11.88 °, which was due to the increasing of stress component along the breadth direction and the decreasing of strain component along the thickness direction, and specimen #5 (ζ = 3) had more uniform distribution of residual stress. In addition, through considering the decay of elastic modulus (E) after plastic deformation, absolute error of SA of specimen #6 (ζ = 6) was reduced from 1.98 ° to 0.95 °.
Difference between uncapping and removal behaviors in Apis cerana from the perspective of long non-coding RNAs
Authors: Li Xiao , Yang Xiaoxiao , You Fangdong , Miao Chunhui , Li Meng , Wang Kang , Niu Qingsheng , Ji Ting , Wang Zhi , Lin Zheguang
Published: May 2024

Background
Hygienic behavior has been identified as a specific type of immune response that has evolved in social insects, in which it contributes to preventing the spread of diseases throughout insect colonies. In bee colonies, such hygienic behavior entails the dual steps of uncapping and removal of dead and diseased larvae and pupae. Although in recent years, numerous studies have examined the development of hygienic behavior among bees, the mechanisms underlying the division in the performance of uncapping and removal have yet to be sufficiently elucidated. In this regard, long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been evidenced to be engaged in regulating the physiological activities of honeybees; however, whether lncRNAs are similarly involved in the uncapping and removal behaviors of these bees has not been clarified.
Results
In this study, the strong hygienic Apis cerana worker bees were used and the processes of uncapping and removal behaviors in three colonies were assayed with freeze-killed brood in the field. We then sequenced the antennal RNAs of honeybees to identify differentially expressed lncRNAs and performed lncRNA–mRNA association analysis to establish the differences between uncapping and removal. We detected 1323 differentially expressed lncRNAs in the antennae, and the findings of lncRNA–mRNA association analyses revealed that the target genes of differentially expressed lncRNAs between uncapping and removal worker bees were mainly annotated to response to stimulus, receptor activity, and synapse. Among the lncRNAs enriched in cellular response to stimulus, XR_001766094.2 was identified to be uniquely expressed in the uncapping workers bees. We accordingly speculate that by responding to external stimuli, XR_001766094.2 may play a key role in the distinction between uncapping and removal, thereby indicating that the division of hygienic behaviors is determined by a differential response to environmental stimuli.
Conclusion
We characterized differences in the uncapping and removal behaviors of worker bees from perspectives of lncRNAs. The uncapping bees may equip with a more rapid stimulatory response and more acute olfactory sensitivity, contributing to the rapid hygienic behavior in honeybee colonies. Our study thus laid the foundation for the potential lncRNA-mediated expression regulation of genes in hygienic behavior.
Effectiveness of Motivational Interviewing and cross platform messaging application in improving oral health knowledge, attitude, and behaviours among pregnant women- A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: N Amitha Basheer , Jodalli Praveen
Published: May 2024

Background: Body goes through significant hormonal and physiological changes during pregnancy, which could be linked to changes in oral health. Many women are unaware of the negative consequences of poor dental health during and after pregnancy, both for themselves and their children. Therefore, this study aimed to the effectiveness of Motivational Interviewing (MI) and cross platform messaging application (WhatsApp messenger) for oral health education on the oral health knowledge, attitude and behaviours among pregnant women attending ante natal care.
Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted among 84 pregnant women. Simple random sampling was employed to select participants after oral examination. Participants were randomly allocated to two groups (Group 1: Cross-platform messaging application [WhatsApp]; Group 2: Motivational Interviewing) using a lottery method. Pregnant women aged 18 years and older, gestational age between 8 and 30 weeks were included. A face-to-face interview and oral examination were conducted to assess baseline knowledge and oral hygiene status. A follow-up examination was conducted after one month of intervention. Inferential statistics, including the chi-square test and independent t-test, were used to compare variables between the two groups.
Results: The mean knowledge score at baseline was comparable between Group 1 (WhatsApp) and Group 2 (Motivational Interviewing). However, post-intervention, Group 2 showed a significantly higher mean knowledge score compared to Group 1. Post-intervention, Group 2 exhibited a significantly better oral hygiene status compared to Group 1. A significant improvement in oral health behaviours, such as regular tooth brushing and dental check-ups, was observed in Group 2 compared to Group 1 (p < 0.001).
Conclusion: The findings suggested that while both interventions were effective, Motivational Interviewing showed superior results in improving knowledge, oral hygiene status, and oral health behaviours. The personalized and client-centred approach of Motivational Interviewing enables participants to explore and resolve ambivalence, promoting a deeper understanding of the importance of oral health during pregnancy.
Trial registration: Trial was prospectively registered in Clinical Trial Registry of India with reference number CTRI/2021/09/036407 https://ctri.nic.in/Clinicaltrials/pmaindet2.php?EncHid=NTAyNjU=&Enc=&userName on 10/09/2021.
A 6-bit 2.4 GS/s Potentiometric DAC using 150nm CMOS Technology
Authors: Chatterjee Souvik , . Hasanujjaman
Published: May 2024

In order to meet the demands of modern applications, we require a high-frequency digital to analog converter (DAC) circuit that can function with high precision, high speed, and low power. A 6-bit DIGITAL TOANALOGCONVERTER(DAC) using PASSTRANSISTOR logic using .15um CMOS Technology is presented in this paper to linearity, analyze accuracywith highfrequency clk input.Integral nonlinearity needs to be smaller than for correct DAC operation. In this work, a 6-bit DAC format with a switch based on PASSS TRANSISTOR logic and .015um CMOS technology is introduced. The suggested design is simulated using the TANNER EDA tool.The proposed DAC is simulated in .15um CMOS technology with 5volt of supply voltage. The average power consumption of the designed DAC is 19.41mw with the sample rate of 2.4 GS/s
Maternity Care Practices Supportive of Breastfeeding in U.S. Advanced Neonatal Care Units, United States, 2022
Authors: Anstey Erica , Noiman Adi , Boundy Ellen , Nelson Jennifer
Published: May 2024

Objective: To describe breastfeeding-supportive practices in U.S. maternity hospitals with advanced neonatal care units (ANCU).
Study Design: Using 2022 mPINC data, we calculated the percent of hospitals reporting 1) breastfeeding-supportive practices for “most” (≥80%) mother-baby dyads in ANCUs, by hospital demographic characteristics and 2) infant receipt of mother’s own milk or donor milk at any time while in the ANCU, by ANCU level.
Results: More than 90% of hospitals reported that “most” mothers (≥80%) were advised on some breastfeeding-supportive practices. Fewer hospitals reported that “most” mothers expressed milk within one hour of birth (37%) or that kangaroo care was practiced for “most” eligible newborns (63%). Receipt of mother’s own milk varied by unit level and state.
Conclusion: Breastfeeding-supportive practices requiring the technical competency of healthcare providers (e.g., early milk expression, kangaroo care) are less likely to be implemented in ANCU settings compared to practices centered around providing advice or education.
End to End Energy Efficient IoUT Architecture: SimulationStudy of Underwater Routing Protocols and LoRa
Authors: Ganguli Souvagya , Agarwalla Nilesh , Anand Sumit , Thyagarajan Jayavignesh
Published: May 2024

In the world of computer networks, underwater areas are a special setting that brings difficulties because of things like sound speed changing, node moving around, and limited node life. Since aerial networks are getting more crowded and overused, the study of underwater networks has become important. This thesis looks at the problems and possibilities in underwater networks, especially for packet routing within the network layer. We aim to assess and contrast different routing protocols that NS2 supports, looking at main performance metrics like end-to-end delay, energy consumption, and packet delivery ratio (PDR). By concentrating on these measurements we wish to highlight the pros and cons of different routing protocols for underwater networks. Along with that, we are also proposing an energy-efficient end-to-end IoUT architecture that explains how a small payload of data gets transmitted from underwater sensor nodes to the LoRa gateway. This would help in progressing technology related to underwater network systems.
Wall-to-Lumen Ratio Estimation from Excised Ascending Aortic Aneurysm Rings
Authors: Parikh Shaiv , Timmermans Finn , Boxtel Juul van , Ganizada Berta , Saraber Pepijn J.M.H. , Huberts Wouter , Delhaas Tammo , Bidar Elham , Reesink Koen
Published: May 2024

Mechanical equilibrium and homeostasis of the vessel wall are dependent on its wall-to-lumen ratio. Ex vivo studies performing wall thickness measurements do not perform measurements on intact rings. Therefore, they lack ex vivo lumen radius, which is necessary to determine the wall-to-lumen ratio. Therefore, in this study we propose an ex vivo wall-to-lumen ratio measurement technique. Our measurements were performed on excised ascending aortic aneurysm rings. We assessed the reliability of our measurement technique through Gage Repeatability and Reproducibility (GRR) analysis, considering both inter- and intra-observer variations. For the samples collected from patient group undergoing ascending aortic repair surgery, our estimates indicate a wall-to-lumen ratio on the order of 0.2, with a GRR coefficient of variation of less than 10%.