bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A New Analytical Approach to First Kind Volterra Integral Equations
Authors: Hussein Mohammed , jassim hassan , Elzaki Tarig , Almusawa Musawa , Ahmad Hijaz
Published: September 2023

A significant group of mathematical issues known as Volterra integral equations appear in numerous scientific and engineering applications. These equations are inherently nonlinear and complicated, making analytical solution difficult. In order to solve Volterra integral equations of the first class, a novel analytical technique known as the Hussein Jassim Method (HJ-method) is presented in this research work. The Volterra integral equations are introduced mathematically in the first section of the study, which also emphasizes their importance in simulating real-world processes. The novel method’s algorithm is then described, followed by an analysis. We also research the novel method’s convergence characteristics and the circumstances under which it produces trustworthy results. We provide a number of Volterra integral equation examples to show the potency of this approach.
In the end, the new method has proven to be effective and efficient in solving first-kind Volterra integral equations. The method has produced satisfactory results, with the obtained solution closely approximating the exact solution. These findings indicate the capability of this method to address the mathematical and technical challenges associated with solving Volterra integral equations. This also makes it possible to use the new technique in other relevant practical contexts.
Passive frequency comb generation at radiofrequency for ranging applications
Authors: Cassella Cristian , Hussein Hussein , Kim Seunghwi , Rinaldi Matteo , Alu Andrea
Published: September 2023

Optical frequency combs, featuring evenly spaced spectral lines, have been extensively studied and applied to metrology, signal processing, and sensing. Recently, frequency comb generation has been also extended to MHz frequencies by harnessing nonlinearities in microelectromechanical membranes. However, the generation of frequency combs at radio frequencies (RF) has been less explored, together with their potential application in wireless technologies. In this work, we demonstrate an RF system able to wirelessly and passively generate frequency combs. This circuit, which we name quasi-harmonic tag (qHT), offers a battery-free solution for far-field ranging of unmanned vehicles (UVs) in GPS-denied settings, and it enables a strong immunity to multipath interference, providing better accuracy than other RF approaches to far-field ranging. Here, we discuss the principle of operation, design, implementation, and performance of qHTs used to remotely measure the azimuthal distance of a UV flying in an uncontrolled electromagnetic environment. We show that qHTs can wirelessly generate frequency combs with μWatt-level of incident power by leveraging the nonlinear interaction between an RF parametric oscillator and a high quality factor piezoelectric microacoustic resonator. Our technique for frequency comb generation opens new avenues for a wide range of RF applications beyond ranging, including timing, computing and sensing.
Beyond a deterministic representation of the temperature dependence of soil CO2 efflux
Authors: Vargas Rodrigo , Le Van Huong
Published: September 2023

Soil CO2 efflux involves complex biological and physical processes that contribute to the production and transport of CO2 from soils to the atmosphere. Temperature is widely used in deterministic empirical models, but these approaches cannot fully capture the complexity of the temperature-soil CO2 efflux relationship due to environmental drivers' confounding and interacting effects beyond temperature. We introduce the Bernstein copula-based cosimulation (BCC) as a data-driven probabilistic approach for modeling the temperature-soil CO2 efflux relationship. The BCC considers the joint probability distribution and temporal dependence of soil CO2 efflux, often ignored in deterministic models. Our results show that this probabilistic approach accurately reproduced the original probability distribution, temporal dependency, and temperature-soil CO2 efflux relationship. We propose that probabilistic approaches hold promise for accurately representing dependency relationships for modeling soil CO2 efflux across various environmental conditions and predicting the effects of climate change.
Experimental Infection Of Aquatic Bird Bornavirus 1 (ABBV-1) In Canada Geese (Branta canadensis)
Authors: Ampuero Fernanda , Leacy Alexander , Pham Phuc H. , Che Sunoh , Tuling Jaime , El-khoury Antonius , Nagy Eva , Jardine Claire , Delnatte Pauline , Lillie Brandon , Susta Leonardo
Published: September 2023

Aquatic bird bornavirus 1 (ABBV-1) has a high prevalence of infection in certain North American populations of Canada geese (Branta canadensis), suggesting a possible role of these birds as an ABBV-1 reservoir. The goal of this study was to evaluate the ability of Canada geese to become experimentally infected with ABBV-1, develop lesions, and transmit the virus to conspecifics. One-week-old Canada geese (n, 65) were inoculated with ABBV-1 through the intramuscular (IM) or cloacal (CL) routes, with the control group receiving carrier only. An additional 6 geese were added to each group to test horizontal transmission (sentinel birds). Geese were monitored daily, and selected birds were euthanized at 1, 8, and 15-weeks post infection (wpi) to assess virus replication in tissues and lesion development. At 15 wpi, over 70% of IM birds were infected, while the CL route yielded only 1 infected goose. Of the infected IM geese, 26% developed encephalitis and/or myelitis after 8 wpi. No clinical signs were observed, and no sentinel birds became infected in any group. Only 1 oropharyngeal swab (IM group) tested positive for ABBV-1 RNA, while the water from the enclosures was consistently negative for virus RNA. This study documents successful experimental infection of Canada geese with ABBV-1, with findings comparable to what is described in infection trials with other waterfowl species. However, minimal shedding and lack of environmental dispersal indicate that Canada geese have little potential to disseminate the virus among wild waterfowl, and that other species could be better suited to act as chronic ABBV-1 shedders in the wild.
Student growth mindset with learning disability through project based learning; Evidence of Pakistan
Authors: Ashfaq Hammad , Zafar Mahwish , Amin Najma
Published: September 2023

Students with learning disabilities have increased continuously from last few decades’ due to this threat of emerging academic, social, and psychological issues increased automatically. Students who have a fixed mindset that their qualities are fixed, whereas those who have a growth mindset that their qualities are flexible. The current applied research investigated Pakistan's Superior University the efficiency of a Growth Mindset intervention based on (Dweck, Chiu, & Hong, 1995) theory. Through project-based learning, this study indicates to determine how an intelligence scale and learning disabilities affect students' growth mindsets. Results of Before Intervention Test (BIT) were ineffective, so an After Intervention Test (AIT) was implemented through a project-based learning activity, and significant results were discovered. The validity and reliability tests were employed in this work to support the analysis of multiple linear regression. The findings of this study indicate that student growth attitude is highly influenced by both learning disability (X2) and IQ scale (X1), as well as by all other variables taken together. If researchers, administrators, teachers, and other people have a better knowledge of the mindsets of students with learning disabilities, they will be better able to develop effective solutions.
Comparison of Peat–Perlite-based and Peat–Biochar-based Substrates with Varying Rates of Calcium Silicate on Growth and Cannabinoid Production of Cannabis sativa ‘BaOx’
Authors: Veazie Patrick , Balance M. Seth , Whipker Brian E. , Jeong Ka Yeon
Published: September 2023

Growers have been searching for alternative horticultural growing media components because of their desire to use sustainable resources. Biochar is a carbon-based material that has been evaluated for use as an alternative aggregate in peat-based soilless substrates. Additionally, silicon (Si) has been examined as a beneficial element to promote plant growth and plant quality in a variety of crops. However, there has been limited research regarding the interaction of biochar as an aggregate and Si in soilless substrates. This study aimed to determine the impact of Si and biochar on plant growth and nutrient uptake for greenhouse-cultivated hemp (Cannabis sativa L.). Hemp plants were grown in one of 12 different substrate blends: with two rates of calcium silicate (CaSiO3), two aggregate types of biochar (medium or coarse) or perlite, and aggregate percentages of 85% peat + 15% aggregate and 70% peat + 30% aggregate. The cannabinoid concentration, plant height, diameter, or total plant biomass were similar across all substrate blends after 12 weeks of growth. Additionally, the use of CaSiO3 as a Si substrate amendment increased Si foliar concentrations, and the addition of biochar to peat-based mixes did not limit the Si availability for plant uptake. However, Si substrate amendments did not impact plant height, diameter, or total plant biomass. This suggests that the biochar tested during this study is suitable in peat-based substrates for C. sativa ‘BaOx’ production at rates up to 30% (by volume) in peat-based substrates with CaSiO3 amendments.
Difference in Kernel Shape and Endocarp Anatomy Promote Dehiscence in Pistachio Endocarp
Authors: Zhang Shuxiao , Wang Minmin , Chernikova Alisa , Eagle Shaina , Bedell Kaleigh Marie , Nguyen Karen , Blanco-Ulate Barbara , Jernstedt Judy , Drakakaki Georgia
Published: September 2023

A fully split shell in pistachio (Pistacia vera) is a trait that is preferred by consumers and is a criterion in evaluating the grade of the pistachio nut. However, although the expanding kernel has been hypothesized to provide the physical force needed for shell split, the mechanisms that control shell split remain unknown. Furthermore, it is intriguing how the shell, or endocarp, splits at the suture ridge when there is no clear dehiscence zone. The objectives of this study were 1) to identify traits associated with dehiscence in fruit in the high-split rate cultivar Golden Hills when compared with the lower split rate cultivar Kerman and determine the anatomic features associated with endocarp dehiscence at the suture region, and 2) to examine the effect of kernel shape on endocarp dehiscence. We determined that, despite the fact that the pistachio endocarp is composed primarily of a single type of polylobate sclerenchyma cell, specialization of cell shape and size at the suture site results in smaller, more flattened cells. We report there is a furrowing of the shell at the dorsal and apical suture sites, where dehiscence initiates. This furrowing is not observed at the ventral suture site or in the indehiscent fruit of Pistacia atlantica, a species that has been used as rootstock for P. vera. In addition, the size of the kernel in the sagittal axis (the width) is strongly associated with a greater split rate. Based on our results, a tentative model emerges in which, in the absence of specialized cell types, cell shape modification can create an anatomically distinct region that is mechanically weak in the endocarp for the initiation of dehiscence, whereas the force from the width of the kernel is necessary for the shell split rate difference as observed in cultivars.
Evaluation of ballast water treatment systems from the perspective of expert seafarers' ship experiences
Authors:   Istanbul Technical University, Faculty of Naval Architecture and Ocean Engineering, Department of Shipbuilding and Ocean Engineering, Yilmaz Mevlüt , Bilgin Güney Ceren
Published: September 2023

Until recently, the selection of ballast water treatment (BWT) systems was based on a predetermined set of criteria that did not include evaluations for system utilization due to lack of experience. The experience-building phase for the systems began, especially with the entry of the Ballast Water Management Convention into force. For effective assessment and decision-making, the evaluations of expert seafarers responsible for using ballast water treatment systems on-board ships are of paramount importance. This study was completed by evaluating the experience and evaluations of 50 expert seafarers (24 deck personnel and 26 engine personnel) working in a Turkish maritime company in three phases to contribute to the decision-making and system evaluation processes: 1- The failure reports written by the ship personnel of the maritime company were examined, and bilateral interviews with expert seafarers working on these tankers were held; 2- an online questionnaire was prepared and presented to seafarers; 3Analytic hierarchy process (AHP) was used to obtain a common perspective of the seafarers. In this study's first phase, 'ideal system characteristics' were determined. Based on these characteristics, an online questionnaire was prepared in the second phase of this study and presented to seafarers. In the third phase, a set of six criteria was developed, and the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) was used to obtain the common perspective of 50 participants. Pairwise comparisons revealed that ‘Rare alarms and malfunctions’ was the most important criterion from the perspective of all seafarers and UV-type BWTSs were 1.76 times more preferable than the electrochemical (El-Chem) type BWTSs as a common approach.
On weak ergodicity breaking in mean-field spin glasses
Authors: Folena Giampaolo , Zamponi Francesco
Published: September 2023

The weak ergodicity breaking hypothesis postulates that out-of-equilibrium glassy systems lose memory of their initial state despite being unable to reach an equilibrium stationary state. It is a milestone of glass physics, and has provided a lot of insight on the
physical properties of glass aging. Despite its undoubted usefulness as a guiding principle, its general validity remains a subject of debate. Here, we present evidence that this hypothesis does not hold for a class of mean-field spin glass models. While most of the qualitative physical picture of aging remains unaffected, our results suggest that some important technical aspects should be revisited.
Diseño y fabricación de un arreglo lineal de 16 altavoces para la generación de zonas de escucha personalizadas.
Authors: Yepes Diaz Mateo , López Martínez Sebastián , Murillo Gómez Diego Mauricio
Published: September 2023

El incremento de la capacidad computacional de las últimas décadas ha permitido la implementación de modelos  para el desarrollo de nuevas tecnologías de reproducción de sonido. Un ejemplo corresponde a los arreglos lineales de altavoces que posibilitan la generación de zonas de escucha personalizadas. Mediante procesamiento de señal, es posible utilizar el fenómeno de interferencia ondulatoria para crear un haz sonoro en una dirección específica. Aplicaciones de la anterior tecnología se encuentra en campos como el desarrollo de dispositivos de audio comercial, videojuegos, educación o acústica de salas entre otros.
Un arreglo de altavoces lineal que genere zonas de escucha personalizada debe cumplir con una serie de especificaciones técnicas que aseguren que el fenómeno ondulatorio es adecuadamente controlado, y por ende, el campo sonoro deseado.  Este artículo aborda el proceso metodológico requerido para el desarrollo y puesta a punto de un arreglo lineal de altavoces que genere zonas de escucha personalizada. Lo anterior incluye la medición, caracterización y diseño de cada uno de los elementos involucrados en la cadena constructiva tales como la caja acústica, altavoces, amplificadores, ensamblaje y software de procesamiento. Se concluye con el dispositivo construido y las limitantes de funcionamiento basadas en los resultados obtenidos.
RETRACTACIÓN: Sistema difuso para la recomendación de planes de fertilización en ganadería de leche
Authors: Giraldo Plaza Jorge Eliecer , Londoño Franco Luis Fernando , Perez Buelvas Carlos Alberto , Alvarez Alabanes Eddie Yacir
Published: September 2023

Los planes de fertilización para suelos y praderas, consiste en establecimiento de factores fisicoquímicos que mejoran las características del suelo. En este artículo se presenta el diseño de un sistema difuso para la recomendación de planes de fertilización. Inicialmente se realiza una caracterización de las variables para una fertilización precisa de suelos, determinando aquellas que generan mayor afectación a partir de la correlación presente entre ellas. Luego se procede a definir los conjuntos difusos de entrada y salida, así como las funciones de pertenencia y variables lingüísticas en función de rangos ideales en producciones baja, media y alta acorde a la extracción de macronutrientes. Como resultado principal se tiene un esquema general de un sistema de recomendación inteligente basada en lógica difusa, lo que evidencia que el uso de tecnologías propias de la industria 4.0 tiene potencial de aplicaciones para el control y gestión en el campo lechero.
Analysis of pressure surges under various flow patterns in the tunnel of an underwater rock plug blasting system using different transition process models
Authors: Zhang Xiaoying , Wang Yisong , Xu Tingyu , Zhang Jian
Published: September 2023

The pressure surge at the moment of blasting seriously threatens the safety of pipeline structures and other buildings. This article established two numerical simulation models of the hydraulic transition process and water–air two-phase flow based on the one-dimensional transient flow theory and considering the actual flow characteristics of water and air. The hydraulic characteristics and blasting parameters of the blasting system were studied under two different conditions of the tunnel with and without the pressure flow. The observed parameters of an actual blasting engineering prototype verified the accuracy of the mathematical model. The maximum pressure of pressure blasting was 2.55 times as high as hydrostatic pressure. The maximum pressure of non-pressure blasting was 1.77 times as high as hydrostatic pressure. Pressure blasting impact was 2.17 times greater than nonpressure blasting. Discrepancies between actual and simulated data for gushing and overflow heights ranged from 9 to 14%. The model can provide a reference for blasting engineering on the simulation calculation of hydraulic characteristics such as impact pressure, overflow time, and overflow of the underwater rock plug blasting system.
Upstream vortices of a sluice gate: An experimental and numerical study
Authors: Norouzi Reza , Ebadzadeh Parisa , Sume Veli , Daneshfaraz Rasoul
Published: September 2023

This paper aims to explore the effects of a sill under a standard sluice gate on the development of the intake vortices. In total, 200 experiments were carried out. Sills with different shapes and widths were considered both numerically and experimentally. Results indicated that using a sill changes the flow depth and upstream pressure. Using a silled gate causes a decrease in the amount of air entering the fluid. By increasing the sill width, the vortex intensity reduces and this reduction is further amplified by increasing the approach discharge. The experimental findings are also compared to the results from the numerical model Flow-3D with interesting agreements.
Microbial hazards in real-world alternating dual-pit latrines treated with storage and lime in rural Cambodia
Authors: Harper James , Abdel Sattar Rana , Kozole Tyler , Toeur Veasna , Rogla Jennifer , Ross Marlaina , Ives Nate , Pruitt Hannah , Soneja Payal , Capone Drew
Published: September 2023

Achieving safely managed sanitation (SMS) in rural areas has spurred innovation in toilet designs that provide on-site treatment of fecal sludge (FS), including the development of International Development Enterprise (iDE)’s alternating dual-pit latrine upgrade (ADP). ADPs treat FS by inactivating pathogens using storage treatment with lime; however, ADPs’ reduction in pathogenicity (and thus their associated public health benefit) has not yet been described in real-world pits at scale. We thus enumerate the fecal indicator bacteria Escherichia coli (E. coli) and fecal coliforms in 147 pits after two years of storage treatment with lime and compare detected concentrations to relevant standards. E. coli and fecal coliform concentrations indicated a risk to human health in 31% and 42% of sampled pits, respectively. Regression models described relationships between fecal indicator bacteria concentrations and measured factors (e.g., sludge pH, temperature) but did not reveal any meaningful associations. High rates of pit ineligibility also indicate that many ADPs are not operated as recommended. Results indicate a one-in-three chance that a household emptying their own pit would be exposed to health hazards and call into question the effectiveness of the standard two-year storage treatment in real-world applications. To improve rural SMS, various evidence-based recommendations are made.
The influence of nursing leaders' behavior on nurses' job satisfaction: A quantitative study in Hail, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Al Reshidi Nashi , Shanan Noof , Garcia Michelle , Saleh Anfal , Dali Tagreed , Musbet Ahlam
Published: September 2023

This cross-sectional quantitative study investigates the intricate relationships between the demographic characteristics of nurses and their perceptions of leader behavior and job satisfaction within the healthcare context of Hail, Saudi Arabia. The primary aim is to establish the pertinence of nursing leaders' behaviors in shaping the perceptions and job satisfaction levels of nursing professionals. A sample of 716 nurses was selected using a simple random sampling method, with participants completing questionnaires administered through online software. Two validated instruments were employed: the 19-item Leadership Behavior Description Questionnaire (LBDQ), exhibiting excellent reliability (Cronbach's alpha of 0.955), and the 20-item Minnesota Satisfaction Questionnaire (MSQ), also demonstrating excellent reliability (Cronbach's alpha of 0.968). Results indicate a moderate level of job satisfaction with a significant association observed with respect to age. However, nurses' perceptions of nursing leaders' behaviors did not exhibit significant variations concerning age, education, or experience. Similarly, no substantial correlations were found between job satisfaction, experience, and education. These findings align with previous studies, emphasizing that job satisfaction is primarily contingent on a supportive work environment rather than organizational structure or nursing care delivery models. Consequently, the behavior of leaders towards their staff emerges as a crucial determinant of staff satisfaction, offering a substantial solution for staff retention and fostering a positive work culture. Such improvements can enhance staff competence, skills, and overall quality, ultimately ensuring the provision of safe patient care.
Design Guidelines of Mobile Apps for Older Adults: Systematic Review and Thematic Analysis
Authors: Gomez-Hernandez Miguel , Ferre Xavier , Moral Cristian , Villalba-Mora Elena
Published: September 2023

Background

Mobile apps are fundamental tools in today’s society for practical and social endeavors. However, these technologies are often not usable for older users. Given the increased use of mobile apps by this group of users and the impact that certain services may have on their quality of life, such as mobile health, personal finance, or online administrative procedures, a clear set of guidelines for mobile app designers is needed. Existing recommendations for older adults focus on investigations with certain groups of older adults or have not been extracted from experimental results.

Objective

In this research work, we systematically reviewed the scientific literature that provided recommendations for the design of mobile apps based on usability testing with older adults and organized such recommendations into a meaningful set of design guidelines.

Methods

We conducted a systematic literature review of journal and conference articles from 2010 to 2021. We included articles that carried out usability tests with populations aged >60 years and presented transferable guidelines on mobile software design, resulting in a final set of 40 articles. We then carried out a thematic analysis with 3 rounds of analysis to provide meaning to an otherwise diverse set of recommendations. At this stage, we discarded recommendations that were made by just 1 article, were based on a specific mobile app and were therefore nontransferrable, were based on other authors’ literature (as opposed to recommendations based on the results of usability tests), or were not sufficiently argued. With the remaining recommendations, we identified commonalities, wrote a faithful statement for each guideline, used a common language for the entire set, and organized the guidelines into categories, thereby giving shape to an otherwise diverse set of recommendations.

Results

Among the 27 resulting guidelines, the rules Simplify and Increase the size and distance between interactive controls were transversal and of the greatest significance. The rest of the guidelines were divided into 5 categories (Help & Training, Navigation, Visual Design, Cognitive Load, and Interaction) and consequent subcategories in Visual Design (Layout, Icons, and Appearance) and Interaction (Input and Output). The recommendations were structured, explained in detail, and illustrated with applied examples extracted from the selected studies, where appropriate. We discussed the design implications of applying these guidelines, contextualized with relevant studies. We also discussed the limitations of the approach followed, stressing the need for further experimentation to gain a better understanding of how older adults use mobile apps and how to better design such apps with these users in mind.

Conclusions

The compiled guidelines support the design of mobile apps that cater to the needs of older adults because they are based on the results of actual usability tests with users aged >60 years.
Blending Video Therapy and Digital Self-Help for Individuals With Suicidal Ideation: Intervention Design and a Qualitative Study Within the Development Process (Preprint)
Authors: Büscher Rebekka , Sander Lasse B , Nuding Mattis , Baumeister Harald , Teismann Tobias
Published: September 2023

BACKGROUND

Digital formats have the potential to enhance accessibility to care for individuals with suicidal ideation. However, digital self-help interventions have faced limitations, including small effect sizes in reducing suicidal ideation, low adherence, and safety concerns.

OBJECTIVE

Therefore, we aimed to develop a remote blended cognitive behavioral therapy intervention that specifically targets suicidal ideation by blending video therapy with web-based self-help modules. The objective of this paper is to describe the collaborative development process and the resulting intervention and treatment rationale.

METHODS

First, we compiled intervention components from established treatment manuals designed for people with suicidal ideation or behavior, resulting in the development of 11 drafts of web-based modules. Second, we conducted a qualitative study, involving 5 licensed psychotherapists and 3 lay counselors specialized in individuals with suicidal ideation who reviewed these module drafts. Data were collected using the think-aloud method and semistructured interviews, and a qualitative content analysis was performed. The 4 a priori main categories of interest were blended care for individuals with suicidal ideation, contents of web-based modules, usability of modules, and layout. Subcategories emerged inductively from the interview transcripts. Finally, informed by previous treatment manuals and qualitative findings, we developed the remote blended treatment program.

RESULTS

The participants suggested that therapists should thoroughly prepare the web-based therapy with patients to tailor the therapy to each individual’s needs. Participants emphasized that the web-based modules should explain concepts in a simple manner, convey empathy and validation, and include reminders for the safety plan. In addition, participants highlighted the need for a simple navigation and layout. Taking these recommendations into account, we developed a fully remote blended cognitive behavioral therapy intervention comprising 12 video therapy sessions and up to 31 web-based modules. The treatment involves collaboratively developing a personalized treatment plan to address individual suicidal drivers.

CONCLUSIONS

This remote treatment takes advantage of the high accessibility of digital formats while incorporating full sessions with a therapist. In a subsequent pilot trial, we will seek input from individuals with lived experience and therapists to test the feasibility of the treatment.
Prevalence Patterns of Myopia Progression in Children and Teenagers in Southern China via Real-World Screening Data: Retrospective School-Based Study (Preprint)
Authors: Luo Man , Zhu Yingting , Han Wenjing , Zhou Chen , Li Zhidong , Guan Jieying , Huang Shaofen , Xie Rui , Luo Ruiyu , Ye Guitong , Zhang Yuan , Shen Xinyue , Chen Jianqi , Hu Lingjing , Zhuo Yehong , Wang Yizhou
Published: September 2023

BACKGROUND

The prevalence of myopia has rapidly increased in recent decades, which has become a global public health problem.

OBJECTIVE

We aim to explore the risk factors and established a machine learning model for the progression of myopia in children and teenagers through a true-world longitudinal data in southern China.

METHODS

This retrospective study screened 16241 children and teenagers aged 6-18 years old at baseline annually over a period of 3 years. Three risk groups were defined by the continuity of myopia progression over two years. Risk factors of myopia progression were evaluated by logistic regression and prediction models were built by multi-layer perceptron. P value was two-tailed, where P < 0.05 was statistically significant, and 95% CIs were reported.

RESULTS

Age, school type, uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA), vision correction alteration (VCA), non-cycloplegic spherical equivalent (NSE) and vision correction type (VCT) were sorted by logistic regression analysis and importance of risk factors. The weights of importance in age, school type, UDVA, VCA, NSE, and VCT were 100%, 59.2%, 47.8%, 34.4%, 24.9% and 22.4%, respectively. Age of 6-18 years old, primary school students, UDVA (logmar) between (0.2, 0.6], without VCA and without vision correction caused 11.19-fold (95%CI 6.89-18.16), 2.46-fold (95%CI 1.64-3.69), 2.16-fold (95%CI 1.71-2.72), 1.73-fold (95%CI 1.51-1.99) and 1.52-fold risk (95%CI 1.27-1.81) to continuous myopia progression than 15-18 years old, high school students, UDVA (logmar) ≤ 0.20, with VCA,and with vision correction. Besides, every increase of 1 dioptre could result in a 1.07-fold risk of continuous myopia progression. The study established a multi-factor perceptron model to predict the progression of myopia, which could achieve an accuracy rate of 0.91(95%CI 0.90-0.93) and AUCs of 0.864-0.907.

CONCLUSIONS

This study established a machine learning predictive model for the progression of myopia based on large-scale screening data from the real world. We discovered that age, school type, UDVA, VCA, NSE and VCT were high-risk factors for myopia progression.
Relationship between Mutant Genes, SNPs and Mutation Types in Children with Hyperthyroidism Based on Canonical correlation Analysis (Preprint)
Authors: Mao Xiaojian , Tang Liangliang , Li Hongyi , Zhang Wen , Liu Li , Wang Heyong , Headar Abdalbari
Published: September 2023

BACKGROUND

Generally, different mutation types affect patients to various degrees. Some mutation types, such as synonymous mutations, do not cause changes in amino acid sequence and have little impact on patients. In contrast, some types of mutations will lead to wrong encoding or stop encoding of amino acid sequences, which will have a more significant impact on patients.

OBJECTIVE

Therefore, this paper intends to find the genetic characteristics of hyperthyroidism in children from the perspective of mutation types: missense mutations, synonymous mutations, nonsense mutations, and splice site mutations, and explore the relationship between mutant Genes, SNPs, and mutation types in patients. Finally, find the mutation type in which the specific mutant gene and the mutation site were biased.

METHODS

Use the canonical correlation analysis method to find the relationship between the mutant gene, the mutation site, and the mutation type.

RESULTS

Based on the complete linear correlation, single value, and Pearson correlation coefficient, screen the mutant genes and SNPs, then get 23 representative mutant genes from 144 mutant genes in 39 children and 8 representative SNPs from 1221 SNPs in 39 children. Canonical variables were constructed using data from representative mutant genes, SNPs, and their corresponding mutation types for canonical correlation analysis. A significant positive correlation between the mutant gene and the mutation type and a significant positive correlation between SNPs and the mutation type were found through canonical variable correlation and significance tests.The mutant genes for children with hyperthyroidism consist of 23 representative mutant genes, among which the genes ACADM, ATM, BARD1, CALCA, CAPN3, CRP, DNMT1, DNMT3A, FANCC, GHRL, KANK1, LRSAM1, TPO, TSHR, VWF are all prone to missense mutations, nonsense mutation, and synonymous mutation, the gene CGA is prone to splice site mutation. Among the 23 genes, the gene KANK1 has the greatest impact on the ensemble of mutant genes. SNPs for children with hyperthyroidism consist of 8 representative SNPs, among which g.1529224C>T, g.23019637C>G and g.44651599T>C are prone to missense mutations, g.1533961C>T, g.12718004G> A, g.43082453A>G, g.44652143G>A and g.71809992C>T are prone to synonymous mutations. The site g.44651599T>C has the greatest impact on the ensemble of SNPs.

CONCLUSIONS

There is a strong correlation between gene mutation types and mutant genes and between mutation types and SNPs in children with hyperthyroidism. Each mutant gene and SNP has a more preferred mutation type, among which gene CGA and gene KANK1 may be the mutant gene that has the most significant impact on children, and SNP g.44651599T>C may be the SNP that has the greatest impact on children.

CLINICALTRIAL
Using a Mobile Messenger Service as a Digital Diary to Capture Patients’ Experiences Along Their Interorganizational Treatment Path in Gynecologic Oncology: Lessons Learned (Preprint)
Authors: Baum Eleonore , Thiel Christian , Kobleder Andrea , Bernhardsgrütter Daniela , Engst Ramona , Maurer Carola , Koller Antje
Published: September 2023

UNSTRUCTURED

A digital diary in the form of a mobile messenger service offers a novel method for data collection in cancer research. Little is known about the things to consider when using this data collection method in clinical research for patients with cancer. In this Viewpoint paper, we discuss the lessons we learned from using a qualitative digital diary method via a mobile messenger service for data collection in oncology care. The lessons learned focus on three main topics: (1) data quality, (2) practical aspects, and (3) data protection. We hope to provide useful information to other researchers who consider this method for their research with patients. First, in this paper, we argue that the interactive nature of a digital diary via a messenger service is very well suited for the phenomenological approach and produces high-quality data. Second, we discuss practical issues of data collection with a mobile messenger service, including participant and researcher interaction. Third, we highlight corresponding aspects around technicalities, particularly those regarding data security. Our views on data privacy and information security are summarized in a comprehensive checklist to inform fellow researchers on the selection of a suitable messenger service for different scenarios. In our opinion, a digital diary via a mobile messenger service can provide high-quality data almost in real time and from participants’ daily lives. However, some considerations must be made to ensure that patient data are sufficiently protected. The lessons we learned can guide future qualitative research using this relatively novel method for data collection in cancer research.
A RETROSPECTIVE STUDY OF ANTENATAL TESTING IN WOMEN WITH REPRODUCTIVE AGE GROUP TRIBAL AREA
Authors: TRIPATHI CHARU , KUMAR SUMIT , SAXENA INDU , GUPTA ARADHANA
Published: September 2023

Objective: This retrospective study aimed to investigate the utilization and outcomes of antenatal testing among women of reproductive age in tribal areas. The study aimed to assess the extent to which antenatal testing services are utilized, identify potential barriers, and propose strategies to enhance healthcare delivery for this vulnerable population.
Methods: Medical records of tribal women receiving antenatal care during a specific period were retrospectively examined. Data on antenatal tests, demographic characteristics, and geographical accessibility were collected. Statistical analysis, including chi-square tests and t-tests, was performed.
Results: Age distribution analysis showed a majority of individuals in the 20-30 y age range. Hemoglobin levels were significantly higher in the "Muslim" group compared to the "Non-Muslim" group. No significant difference was found in total leukocyte count (TLC) and platelet levels between the two groups. Blood group distribution analysis revealed variations between the groups, with a borderline significant difference. Sickle cell status showed a significant difference, with a higher percentage of positive cases in the "NM" group.
Conclusion: This study provides insights into the utilization and outcomes of antenatal testing in tribal areas. It highlights the need for targeted interventions to overcome barriers to access and improve antenatal care delivery in marginalized populations. The findings contribute to the existing literature, guiding policymakers and healthcare providers in developing equitable healthcare strategies for tribal women.
Real action based on search solve create and share (SSCS) model to improve sustainability awareness of junior high school students
Authors: Suryawati Evi , Yennita Y. , Afwa Siti Rahmi , Dianti Putri Rahma , Syafrinal S.
Published: September 2023

Water pollution from manufacturing waste and air pollution from forest and land fires are major environmental issues in the Siak district. This research aimed at gathering empirical data by implementing a real-action project based on SSCS learning to enhance sustainability awareness of Junior High School. This quasi-experiment was carried out in two groups of students in 7th grade of SMPN 1 Koto Gasib, Siak, Riau Province. The experimental class used the SSCS learning model with the ESD approach and the control class applied the scientific learning model. Indicators of sustainability awareness comprise: 1) Sustainability Practice Awareness; 2) Behavioral and Attitude Awareness; and 3) Emotional Awareness. Real-action project that is implemented by the teacher in this research is conducted to promote sustainability awareness in the form of a water purification model, planting pollution-absorbing plants, and creating Eco-brick flower pots. Data analysis uses inferential statistics, namely the T-test using SPSS-26 software. The analysis results of sustainability awareness indicate that students in the experimental class get a higher average of 76%, with the high category. Meanwhile, students in the control class get an average of 65% in the medium category. The T-test analysis of sustainability awareness gets a significance value of 0,002.  0,05, which indicates that there is a significant difference between experimental and control classes. The implementation of SSCS learning model using ESD approach can enhance the students’ sustainability awareness through environmental problem-solving activities, as well as building knowledge, behavior, and attitudes of love for the environment.
The Interactive Effect of Supportive Leadership and Creative Process Engagement on Employee Creativity
Authors:   Korean Academy of Leadership, Choi Dongwon , Kim Dongkyu
Published: September 2023

In the modern organizational context, creativity is a key factor for organizational competitiveness, and leaders play a crucial role in promoting employee creativity. While previous research has shown that positive impact of constructive leader behaviors on employee creativity, there have been inconsistent results regarding the implications of supportive leadership on creativity. To address the limitation, integrating the notion of leadership, creativity, and the dominance complementarity theory, we examine the interactive effect of supportive leadership and employee creative process engagement on employee creativity. Specifically, first, we expect a positive relationship between leader coaching and employee creativity, with considering leader coaching as a form of supportive leadership. Second, we further posit that this relationship varies depending on the level of employee creative process engagement. In particular, we expect that the association will become an inverted U-shaped relationship, meaning that beyond a certain level, leader coaching may hinder employee creativity. To examine the above hypotheses, we collected the survey data from 187 leader-follower dyads of employees who work in Korean organizations; we found that all hypotheses were supported. With this study, we intend to contribute to the advancement of research on creativity, leadership, and the theory of dominance complementarity.
Coherent errors and readout errors in the surface code
Authors: Márton Áron , Asbóth János K.
Published: September 2023

We consider the combined effect of readout errors and coherent errors, i.e., deterministic phase rotations, on the surface code. We use a recently developed numerical approach, via a mapping of the physical qubits to Majorana fermions. We show how to use this approach in the presence of readout errors, treated on the phenomenological level: perfect projective measurements with potentially incorrectly recorded outcomes, and multiple repeated measurement rounds. We find a threshold for this combination of errors, with an error rate close to the threshold of the corresponding incoherent error channel (random Pauli-Z and readout errors). The value of the threshold error rate, using the worst case fidelity as the measure of logical errors, is 2.6%. Below the threshold, scaling up the code leads to the rapid loss of coherence in the logical-level errors, but error rates that are greater than those of the corresponding incoherent error channel. We also vary the coherent and readout error rates independently, and find that the surface code is more sensitive to coherent errors than to readout errors. Our work extends the recent results on coherent errors with perfect readout to the experimentally more realistic situation where readout errors also occur.
COMPARISON OF THE DRYER AIR INLET POSITION ON THE SPRAY DRYER WITH A DOUBLE CONDENSER TO PRODUCE A ROTATING FLOW THROUGHOUT THE DRYING CHAMBER: CFD ANALYSIS
Authors: Ruhyat Nanang
Published: September 2023

Simulation of the drying air and the spray of liquid in the spray dryer chamber with Discrete Phase Material (DPM) and Discrete Random Walk (DRW) was presented in this study using CFD methods to analyze the drying liquid. The main problem in spray drying is the adhesion of the material to the drying chamber walls, which causes uneven drying material. This adhesion can slow down the drying process and reduce productivity. The design of the drying air inlet into the drying chamber becomes essential to research. Variations in the position of the drying air inlet into the drying chamber are carried out in the 3D spray dryer room to see the mechanism of the centrifugal velocity of the drying airflow, which can improve uniform mixing with flow resistance due to friction with small walls and the drying air velocity. This phenomenon is impossible to observe in experiments. A geometric model consisting of 1,054,000 hexa-mesh elements at the area around the nozzle, the top spot of the chamber and the remaining area covered with a tetrahedral mesh, was determined to predict velocity, temperature, and fluid flow behavior. The first position, the dryer air inlet, is at an angle from the diameter of the spray drying chamber. The second position is in the middle of the diameter of the drying chamber. The position of the first inlet produces a more even temperature contour with a more tangential velocity due to the small frictional resistance with the walls. At the same time, the second position is not recommended because the flow leads to one side of the wall and creates sticking and even material buildup. A double-heated condenser can dry air at moderate temperatures, and it is a very effective drying product— positioning the dryer air inlet into the drying chamber, achieving the economical production of high-quality products.
EXPERIMENTAL STUDY OF COMPRESSOR ENCLOSURE WITH PYRAMID ACCOUSTIC FOAM
Authors: Noviana Agus , Sudjadi Usman
Published: September 2023

This study investigates the performance of compressor enclosures for noise absorption, reverberation, and machine ventilation to ensure a safe and healthy working environment for people. The Multi pro air compressor model BC 150 DMBW 1.5 HP is placed in an enclosure made of wood board, and for absorbing material, use 6 cm thick polyurethane pyramid foam. A fan with a flow rate of 280 CMH is used as a cooling medium and will operate simultaneously with the compressor operation. Flow Air Delivery (FAD) of the compressor is 126 L/min. The Sound Pressure Level (SPL) value is determined using a sound level meter before and after the compressor uses the enclosure. In addition, the enclosure's room temperature is recorded within 30 minutes of operation to determine whether there is a significant increase in heat to ensure that the enclosure for this compressor is still within safe limits. Based on the test results, it is known that after a 30-minute operation, the temperature rises from 29 OC to 65 OC in the inlet on the enclosure with the fan off, and the temperature rises from 29 OC to 51 OC on the enclosure with the fan on. While from the results of measuring the sound noise level, taken at a distance of 1 meter outside the enclosure, there is no significant difference, with or without using a fan, the decrease in sound noise level is only about 10 dB, which is 84 dB before using the enclosure, to 74 dB after using the enclosure. So, it can be concluded that the use of fans as coolers is quite effective in maintaining the temperature of the enclosure space when compared to natural cooling through ventilation, but the use of enclosures using pyramid foam material is not effective for reducing the noise level produced by the compressor when operating.