bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Erosion and rising primary production correlate with shifts in cladoceran community composition across three eastern Canadian lake records
Authors: Aucoin Madeleine E. , Rabinovitch Zoë , Pham Jennifer , Zilkey David R. , Gregory-Eaves Irene
Published: November 2024

Anthropogenic stressors are increasing the vulnerability of freshwater systems, causing them to alter their ecosystem functions and lose biodiversity. Cladocerans are widely used paleolimnological indicators because they respond quickly to disturbances and are common prey for many fish taxa. For this project, we combined analyses of sediment elemental composition, chlorophyll a, and subfossil cladoceran assemblages to assess the environmental history of three eastern Canadian lakes that are currently experiencing a range of pressures in their watersheds over the past ~ 300 years. The study lakes were sampled by the NSERC Canadian Lake Pulse network, designed to advance the understanding of lake health in Canada. In all three lakes, we observed changes in erosional geochemical indicators to occur as early as the mid-1700s whereas pronounced changes in sediment chlorophyll a were observed to increase in all three lakes around 1950 CE. The key changes in cladoceran assemblages varied somewhat by lake but occurred shortly after the shifts in erosional elements. With rising primary production, high nutrient levels, and metal contamination, more competitive pelagic cladocerans, such as the Bosmina taxa were observed to remain dominant despite the newly introduced stressors. Overall, the complete time series presented herein demonstrates the importance of expanding research beyond top-bottom comparison to better contextualize changes observed in recent times.
Identification of High-Risk SNPs in SLC22A transporter Genes: Their Potential Role in PCOS and Metformin uptake
Authors: Ravindran Harini , Usha Balasundaram , Ramalingam Satish , Akshatha Pai , kumar T. M. Vijaya
Published: November 2024

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) presents as a multifaceted endocrine disorder impacting women of reproductive age. Metformin, a first-line medication for type 2 diabetes, has emerged as a promising therapeutic option for PCOS due to its beneficial effects on insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia, and ovulation induction. Integral to the pharmacokinetic profile of metformin, the Organic Cation Transporter (OCT) family, encompassing OCT1 (SLC22A1), OCT2 (SLC22A2), and OCT3 (SLC22A3), assumes a pivotal role in mediating the cellular uptake and distribution of this medication. In PCOS, alterations in OCT expression and function contribute to the diversity of metformin response among affected individuals. Numerous single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within OCT genes have been discovered, potentially affecting the uptake, distribution, and effectiveness of metformin. The human OCT family comprises three members: OCT1 (SLC22A1), OCT2 (SLC22A2), and OCT3 (SLC22A3). In this study, we utilized sequence-based prediction methodologies to identify single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within SLC22A1, SLC22A2, and SLC22A3. Among the SNPs cataloged by the NCBI database, four nonsynonymous SNPs (nsSNPs) in SLC22A1, three in SLC22A2, and seven in SLC22A3 were consistently predicted to be highly damaging and deleterious by five in-silico tools (Align GVGD, PolyPhen-2, PANTHER, PROVEAN, and PhD-SNP). These nsSNPs were associated with reduced stability of the SLC22A1-SLC22A3 proteins. Specific mutations, such as L42R and F422S in SLC22A1, R404C, G373D, and E227A in SLC22A2, and G259R, R348W, and R407C in SLC22A3, were identified as highly conserved and exposed, making them significant nsSNPs in our study. The insights gained from these mutations hold the potential to inform large-scale investigations aimed at developing precision medicine approaches for the management of PCOS.
DepthAnything and SAM for UIE: Exploring Large Model Information Contributes to Underwater Image Restoration
Authors: shao Jinxin , zhang haosu , miao jianming
Published: November 2024

Underwater image enhancement (UIE) poses significant challenges due to complex light absorption and scattering effects in aquatic environments, which degrade visual quality and hinder subsequent image analysis. To address these challenges, we propose a novel Large Model-Assisted Feature Enhancement Strategy for UIE that integrates depth and semantic features extracted from large pre-trained models—specifically, DepthAnything and the Segment Anything Model. We develop a rigorous theoretical framework grounded in information theory and statistical learning theory, demonstrating that incorporating auxiliary features from large models enhances the representational capacity of UIE models, reduces estimation risk, and facilitates optimization in high-dimensional feature spaces. Our analysis, leveraging PAC-Bayesian theory, provides theoretical generalization bounds that justify the improved performance of our approach. Extensive experiments on benchmark datasets corroborate our theoretical findings, achieving significant improvements over state-of-the-art methods in both full-reference and no-reference image quality metrics. Through comprehensive ablation studies, we elucidate the critical role of depth information in UIE, aligning with theoretical principles of underwater light attenuation and scattering. This work offers valuable academic insights into integrating large pre-trained models for UIE, bridging the gap between theoretical advancements and practical applications, and opening new avenues for addressing complex image restoration problems in challenging environments.
Woody Plant Species Composition, Structure, and Regeneration Status of Ruruki Forest of Liban Jawi District, West Shewa Zone, Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia
Authors: Belay Bayissa , Regasa Tena , Mammo Siraj
Published: November 2024

The study was conducted to assess the woody plant species composition, population structure, and regeneration status of Ruruki Forest. A total of 30 sample plots, each 20 m x 20 m, were established using a systematic sampling method. A sub-plot of 5 m x 5 m was used to count saplings and seedlings. To describe the vegetation structure of the study forest we computed DBH and height size frequency distributions of individuals and species importance value indexes (IVI).A total of 70 woody species which categorized into 64 genera, and 45 families were identified of which 57.14% were trees, while shrubs and lianas cover 37.14% and 5.7%, respectively. The total density of woody species recorded was 868.33 individuals/ha. The highest IVI index was recorded for Syzgium guineense species, indicating the species is ecologically important. The results of height showed that there was a greater predominance of small-sized individuals of woody species than large-sized woody species for the study forest. The general pattern of the DBH class distribution of the forest showed an irregular distribution, which implies there was some selective cutting of individual woody species for different purposes. The overall regeneration status of the forest was found to be fair. Generally, the result obtained from this study shows that there is disturbance and selective cutting of trees in the forest. Hence, there is a need for full participation in sustainable forest management to control selective cutting and to apply the best forest management practices, such as reforestation and afforestation
FDS-YOLOv8: an improved YOLOv8 model for crop condition detection under severe weather conditions
Authors: wang hui , wu yue , yin lei , liu ye , wang dong
Published: November 2024

This paper proposes an enhanced version of the YOLOv8 object detection model, named FDS-YOLOv8, specifically designed for crop condition detection under severe weather conditions. The significance of accurate crop monitoring in agriculture cannot be overstated, particularly in regions prone to adverse weather such as rain, fog, and sandstorms. The proposed FDS-YOLOv8 model incorporates three key components: the Focus module for efficient downsampling without information loss, Depthwise Separable Convolution to reduce parameters and computational costs, and the Swin Transformer for improved feature extraction and noise resilience. Experimental results demonstrate that FDS-YOLOv8 achieves a mean average precision (mAP) of 90.5%, outperforming the baseline YOLOv8 model by 3.0%. This improved model effectively detects crop growth cycles, pests, and diseases even in heavy rain, fog, or sandstorm weather, showcasing its potential as a valuable tool for agricultural vegetation planting.
Next-Generation Sequencing Workflow Study Of SARS-Cov-2 Beta RBD in Complex with Human ACE2 With Biopython
Authors: Sharma Roma , Kumari Uma , Hasan Kamal
Published: November 2024

In the present study, we focused on Next - Generation Sequencing analysis with Biopython to study the Beta SARS-CoV-2 variant RBD and Human ACE2 enzyme. The NGS workflow analysis includes computational tools MMDB, BioPython, BLAST, String, COBALT, InterPro, and PDB web server (PDBsum) for the present study. We employed a protein structural analysis to asses conserved domains which disrupt ACE2/SARS-CoV-2 Binding. Bio python was employed to automate the protein sequence for structure manipulation tasks. We performed MSA (Multiple sequence alignment) with COBALT and studied conserved residues that are essential for binding. Blast was used to search the homology and identify functionally relevant regions with a PDB web server that serves the purpose of visualization Protein domains and functions were classified with InterPro scan The findings of Interproscan of 8DF5 revealed peptidase and Collectrin –novel homolog of angiotensin-converting enzyme helps in the development of future therapeutic targets.
Physician Assistant/Associate Career Flexibility: Factors Associated with Specialty Transitions
Authors: Kozikowski Andrzej , Bruza-Augatis Mirela , Morton-Rias Dawn , Puckett Kasey , Jeffery Colette , Cawley James F. , Hooker Roderick S. , Quella Alicia , Mauldin Sheila , Goodman Joshua
Published: November 2024

Background
Physician assistants/associates (PAs), due to their broad medical education and certification, have the flexibility to change specialties throughout their careers. Prior studies suggest that between half and three-quarters exercise this option at some point in their career, and a third do so within the first decade. However, more research is needed to understand the factors associated with PAs changing vs. remaining in the same specialty throughout their professional journey.
Methods
A cross-sectional analysis using a 2023 national dataset was conducted to examine specialty transitions throughout PAs' careers. We analyzed responses (N = 121,947 [81.3% response rate]) to a question asking how many times PAs changed specialties throughout their careers. Our investigation included specialty changes overall and separately within career-stage subgroups. We also explored demographics and practice attributes associated with specialty change patterns.
Results
Most PAs change specialties at least once during their careers, with some making this transition as many as six or more times. The highest proportion of change occurs in the first, followed by the second decade of practice. In the first 10 years, 40.3% of PAs changed specialties. In multivariate analysis, duration of practice was the strongest factor associated with increased odds of transitioning. PAs practicing for 31 or more years had over four-fold higher odds of changing specialties than PAs practicing for 10 or fewer years. Other factors strongly linked to specialty changes included working in critical care medicine or psychiatry, holding two or more clinical positions, practicing in urgent care, being an independent contractor, female gender, serving in the military, and possessing a doctorate. The pattern of significant PA characteristics linked with specialty changes was largely consistent when comparing the overall cross-sectional analysis with separate subgroups of PAs within different career stages.
Conclusion
PAs exhibit a high degree of career flexibility when it comes to changing specialties. Our research demonstrates that by the late-career stage, three-fourths of PAs have transitioned between at least two disciplines; however, most changes occurred in the first decade of practice. This study further substantiates the PA profession's attributes, highlighting its unique characteristics, such as its adaptability and capacity for career flexibility.
3D-printed models demonstrate hermit crab’s shelter preference for dextral shells
Authors: Tachibana Jun , Yoshikawa Akihiro , Hoso Masaki
Published: November 2024

Because the external structures of animals are products of their behavioral traits, they often called “extended phenotypes.” Unlike phenotypes in general, extended phenotypes have a unique feature that they can be easily modified by researchers. However, it is still difficult for small-scale research projects to design artificial objects that differ only in specific elements, to create them in large quantities, and to use them in the field without polluting the environment. To overcome these difficulties, we here propose the usefulness of 3D printing technology with biodegradable materials. As an example, we tested the shell preference of hermit crabs. Hermit crabs selectively use the snail shells as shelter. Because most snail shells are dextral (clockwisely coiling), it seems obvious that hermit crabs prefer dextral shells. However, due to the practical impossibility of conducting comparative experiments using snail shells that differ only in chirality, it has never been rigorously tested. In this study, we used 3D-printed models of dextral and sinistral shells in laboratory and field experiments, providing definitive evidence for the preference of hermit crabs for dextral shells. This study demonstrates the usefulness of 3D printing technology to examine how extended phenotypes are optimized and how the optimizations are limited by natural materials.
Analysis of the Efficiency Electrochemical Extraction to Chloride Ions for Rehabilitation of Reinforced Concrete
Authors: Santos Beatriz Schimelfenig , Silva Cristina Vitorino , Mazer Wellington
Published: November 2024

Due to Brazil having an extensive coastline, it is extremely important to study the interactions between concrete and the marine environment, in order to prevent pathological manifestations and recover structures damaged by the action of the sea air. This work aims to analyze the efficiency of the method of electrochemical extraction of chloride ions in reinforced concrete affected by corrosion of chloride ions in a coastal region. Through the study it was verified that the application of the method of electrochemical extraction of chloride ions was effective for the rehabilitation of concrete analyzed, however, an increase in the porosity of the sample was observed after the application of the method. The analyzes were in accordance with the literature review, which states the increase in concrete porosity due to the high current density used during the application of the method.
WITHDRAWN: The impact of listing companies in emerging markets on the London Stock Exchange on Financial reporting opacity and sustainable growth rate
Authors: Elmaasrawy Hamada , Tawfik Omar , Lamey Ywana
Published: November 2024

The full text of this preprint has been withdrawn by the authors due to author disagreement with the posting of the preprint. Therefore, the authors do not wish this work to be cited as a reference. Questions should be directed to the corresponding author.
Application of VR to Ikebana Education
Authors: Miyazaki Ayano , Ota Hiroko , Iwazaki Kumiko , Urata Mayu , Endo Mamoru , Yasuda Takami
Published: November 2024

This study proposes a virtual reality (VR) system designed to support ikebana education. It enables beginners to virtually prepare for and review lessons before and after working with real flowers in the classroom. A custom flower model allows learners to perform fundamental ikebana operations such as cutting, bending, and shaping curves. The system features an intuitive, user-friendly interface tailored for those unfamiliar with VR, using only the trigger and grip buttons on the VR controller. Learners can practise arranging flowers in a vase, focusing on proper length, balance of angles, and order of placement, with the option to repeat the process as needed. An automated function assists learners by adjusting their arrangements to facilitate self-study. In the Ikenobo curriculum, works composed of linear flower materials—such as stems, branches, and long leaves—are regarded as a set of line segments. The system evaluates and adjusts these arrangements based on the statistical properties of these line segments.
Enhanced Content-Based Image Retrieval through Integrated Local Average Binary Patterns and Joint Color Probabilities
Authors: Hosseini Seyyed Ali , Eshghi AmirHossein , Mohammadi Saba , Zakeri Abdollah
Published: November 2024

Artificial intelligence techniques for image pattern recognition and retrieval are pivotal in various applications, particularly in medical imaging. Despite numerous existing methods, the process remains complex and computationally intensive. This study introduces an innovative approach to content-based image retrieval (CBIR) by integrating Local Average Binary Patterns (LABP) and the joint probability distribution of color channels. LABP extends the traditional Local Binary Pattern (LBP) by considering multiple layers of neighboring pixels, enabling a more comprehensive texture representation. Additionally, we propose a novel color feature extraction method based on the discrete joint probability distribution of RGB color channels, providing a robust representation of color information. The effectiveness of the proposed method is validated on the Wang (Corel-1k) and Corel-10k datasets, demonstrating superior precision compared to other state-of-the-art techniques. This work contributes to enhancing CBIR performance by combining these novel features into a unified feature vector, improving efficiency and accuracy, especially in large datasets. The code and links to datasets are publicly available at https://github.com/BU-AILab/LABP.
Unintended pregnancy in the Netherlands: An evaluation of a multidimensional and continuous construct
Authors: Sprenger Merel , Beumer Wieke Yanne , Ditzhuijzen Jenneke van , Jong Jessica Christina Kiefte-de
Published: November 2024

Background. It is often unclear what constitutes an unintended pregnancy, and pregnancy intentions may be multidimensional, dynamic as well as context-specific. The London Measure of Unplanned Pregnancy (LMUP) measures pregnancy intentions in a manner close to the actual experience. The aim of this study is to establish a reliable adapted Dutch version of the LMUP (LMUP-NL). The second aim is to provide a more accurate understanding of unintended pregnancy in the Netherlands, by focusing on associated factors with unintended pregnancy of both pregnant people and their partners, irrespective of pregnancy outcome. The third aim is to give insight into agreement of pregnancy intentions within couples.Methods. The adapted LMUP-NL was translated based on the Flemish LMUP and the UK 2020 update. In a small validation sample, we evaluated the psychometric properties of the adapted LMUP-NL with regards to acceptability, readability, reliability, and construct validity. Further, we combined data from two studies on unintended pregnancy including both people who were pregnant and their partners. We tested several hypotheses, expecting people to report a more intended pregnancy if they were 1) continuing their pregnancy to term, 2) in a stable relationship, 3) older than 20 but younger than 40, and 4) pregnant for the first time. We additionally assessed consistency in pregnancy intentions of couples.Results. The evaluation (n = 101) demonstrated that the adapted LMUP-NL was acceptable, readable and reliable (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.75). There was good test-retest stability and acceptable construct validity. Subsequently, results from our hypothesis tests (n = 1172) showed that people who were younger, single, and nulliparous reported lower pregnancy intent. People who had an abortion reported lower pregnancy intent compared to people continuing their pregnancy to term. Lastly, results showed a high correlation of pregnancy intent in couples (n = 257).Conclusions. The current study evaluated the adapted LMUP-NL as reliable for the Dutch context. It offers researchers and policy makers an instrument suitable to measure pregnancy intention in a multidimensional manner, constituting a closer reflection of the actual experience of pregnancy intentions. Pregnancy intentions are context-specific and often consistent between partners.
Facilitators and barriers to participation of patients with treatment resistant depression in a randomised controlled trial of two forms of personalised magnetic resonance imaging targeted transcranial magnetic stimulation (the BRIGhTMIND trial)
Authors: Boutry Clement , Webster Lucy , Thomson Louise , Harding Delilah , Reid Isabel , Bates Peter , Gledhill John , McNaughton Rebecca , Eastham Jane , Ooi Joanne , Willis Andy , Marner Sonal , Morriss Richard
Published: November 2024

Background. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can personalise the site of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) delivered as a course of 20 sessions for treatment-resistant depression (TRD). Facilitators and barriers to a randomised controlled trial (RCT) of MRI personalised TMS is understudied.
Aim. To explore facilitators and barriers behind RCT participants’ experience of personalised MRI-targeted TMS in people with TRD.
Methods. Nineteen participants from the BRIGhTMIND RCT of two forms of MRI personalised TMS, completed semi-structured interviews exploring the reasons behind the uptake and experience of TMS. The sample included fifteen participants who completed the treatment course and four who declined to proceed before randomisation. Interviews were analysed using thematic analysis, co-produced between researchers and patients and public involvement contributors.
Results. Facilitators were “hope” regarding the treatment itself, the influence of research staff, interest in a new treatment, and altruism. Barriers were concerns about their ability to commit to the trial and the nature of the TMS itself. MRI was neither a facilitator nor a barrier to TMS. Throughout the themes, clinicians and researchers made a difference by explaining and setting realistic expectations of the treatment and building rapport through daily patient contact. The ability to offer TMS outside office hours would be a great advantage for patients in employment.
Conclusion.The study highlights the importance of understanding patients’ concepts and experiences of TMS. The provision of optimal information to patients and the most efficacious, acceptable regimes of TMS delivery may maximise participation (Trial registration number ISRCTN19674644).
Reducing Subjectivity in Landslide Hazard Zonation Method: An Integrated Methodology
Authors: Gebremicheal Searom , Wubshet Tegene
Published: November 2024

This study was conducted in Sheko District, Southwestern Ethiopia. The area has been experiencing recurrent landslide problems for several years. Due to the severity of these slope instability issues, this study was undertaken. The primary objective of the study was to evaluate landslide hazard using a new methodology and to validate its efficiency. An integrated Slope stability Susceptibility Evaluation Parameter and Geographic Information System based statistical Value approach was employed. Facet-wise field measurement and observations were made, and ratings for each parameter class were assigned based on the prevailing conditions on individual facets. By establishing the density relationship between past landslides in the study area computation of hazard index and modifying rating to come up with the new methodology rating has been done. The evaluate landslide hazard map produced by the integrated approach classifies the study area into four zones, low hazard, moderate hazard, high hazard and Vey high hazard zones. Out of a total of 303 facets evaluated using the integrated approach, covering an area of 0.469 km2, 8 facets are classified as falling under the low hazard zone, 232 facets are classified as falling under the moderate hazard zone, 62 facets classified as high hazard zones with area coverage of 27.064\(\:{\:\text{K}\text{m}}^{2}\), which count for approximately 25.7% of the study area, one facet (Facet 286) classified as very high hazard zone with area coverage of 0.223\(\:{\:\text{K}\text{m}}^{2}\), approximately 0.21% of the study area.
Ramadan during pregnancy and offspring age at menarche in Indonesia: a quasi-experimental study
Authors: Tran Van My , Ewijk Reyn van , Pradella Fabienne
Published: November 2024

Background
Age at menarche (AAM) is a key indicator of female reproductive health, predicting fecundity, birth rate, menopausal timing, and other long-term health outcomes. Nutrition is an important non-genetic factor influencing menarcheal timing, with animal models indicating a link between maternal nutrition during pregnancy and offspring pubertal onset. However, due to ethical and practical constraints, studies on humans are scarce. Our study used prenatal exposure to Ramadan to investigate the effect of maternal nutrition on offspring AAM. Due to its intermittent nature, Ramadan fast is similar to other common forms of nutritional deprivation during pregnancy, e.g. breakfast skipping. Therefore, the relevance of this research extends beyond the context of Ramadan itself. Furthermore, considering the global prevalence of Ramadan observance, understanding the link between Ramadan during pregnancy and offspring reproduction health could benefit millions of females.
Methods
We used data from the Indonesian Family Life Survey (1993-2014, N=8,081) and Indonesian Demographic and Health Surveys (2002-2007, N=13,241). OLS and Cox regressions were applied to compare the AAM of female Muslims who were prenatally exposed to Ramadan and those of female Muslims who were not exposed. Exposure was determined based on the overlap between each woman’s own time in utero with historical dates of Ramadan. We further subdivided this overlap into trimester-specific categories. In all analyses, we adjusted for urban-rural residence, birth month, birth year, birth year squared, and survey wave.
Results
No associations between Ramadan during pregnancy and AAM were found, irrespective of the pregnancy trimester overlapping with Ramadan. These results were stable when we restricted the sample to women with shorter recall periods and younger women at the time of survey.
Conclusions
This study adds to the limited body of human research on the effects of prenatal nutritional on AAM. Given the limitations inherent in our study, future research is encouraged to further investigate this relationship. This could include examining clinical markers of pubertal onset, as well as exploring other social indicators of female reproduction. Such studies would help deepen our understanding of the dynamics between prenatal nutrition and female reproductive outcomes.
Ethogram of the endangered Great-Billed Seed-Finch, Sporophila maximiliani (Cabanis, 1851) (Thraupidae: Passeriformes), based on captive-born individuals
Authors: SANTOS GABRIELA SALES DOS , LEAL LARA LOUREDO , DE MELO-XIMENES AMANDA ALVES , BAPTISTA LUIZ ALFREDO MARTINS LOPES , NOMURA FAUSTO
Published: November 2024

Knowing the behavioral repertoire of a species is essential for in-depth research, especially for critically endangered species that depend on conservation efforts to avoid its extinction. In addition, knowledge of a species’ behavior is essential for promoting its welfare under captive conditions. For example, endangered species that are to be reintroduced into the wild must be kept in captivity for rehabilitation and health assessment prior to release. The Great-billed Seed-finch, Sporophila maximiliani (Cabanis, 1851), is a critically endangered passerine, but we have a limited understanding of its behavior. Although rare in the wild, the species is commonly bred in captivity and these individuals are used to re-establish wild populations. Here, we provide the first description of the ethogram of captive-born individuals of S. maximiliani. We expect this to aid in the rehabilitation of individuals destined for reintroduction projects and the conservation of wild populations of the species. We described twenty-three behaviors, mainly distributed in the categories of maintenance, locomotion and alertness. We did not observe any abnormal behaviors, such as stereotyped behaviors, which is a positive signal for the welfare of these individuals. Also, the large number of alert behaviors observed is indicative of the reactivity of these individuals to their immediate environment, which is desirable for individuals to be released into the wild.
Rapid population collapse of the native avifauna of Kauaʻi
Authors: Hunt Noah , Crampton Lisa , Winter Tyler , Alexander Jack , Gilb Roy , Camp Richard
Published: November 2024

Hawaiʻi hosts one of Earth’s most unique and threatened avifaunas. Of the 13 historic Kauaʻi forest bird species, 8 remain, and these only on the ʻAlakaʻi Plateau (maximum elevation 1,598m). Once a high-elevation refugium from mosquito-vectored avian malaria, it is now a disease transmission zone facilitated by climate change. We report the updated status and trends of Kauaʻi forest bird populations from the latest (2023) to the original (1981) Hawaiʻi Forest Bird Surveys using distance sampling. We fit detection functions to species-specific count data, including necessary covariates or adjustment terms, to model densities and abundances, with bootstrapping to obtain variances. We stratified estimates across the Interior (since 1981) and Exterior (since 2000) survey areas, and between low (900-1100m), medium (1100-1300m) and high (>1300m) elevation bands (since 2000). Log-linear trends of ʻakekeʻe, ʻanianiau, ʻiʻiwi, and Kauaʻi ʻamakihi steeply declined over the time series, with extinction of ʻakekeʻe and ʻiʻiwi expected by 2050. Undetected in 2023, ʻAkikiki were excluded from this analysis. ʻApapane, Kauaʻi ʻelepaio, Chinese hwamei, and white-rumped shama were stable overall. Northern cardinal steadily declined, whereas Japanese bush warbler and warbling white-eye exponentially increased. Examining alpha and Shannon diversity revealed that species richness decreased overall from 1981-2023. Therefore, introduced species cannot compensate for the Alakaʻi Plateau’s continued and imminent biodiversity casualties likely resulting from avian malaria. Future monitoring will be critical to evaluate forest bird population responses to mosquito control using the incompatible insect technique, scheduled for 2025.
Research on Spatial Downscaling Surrogate Model of Landscape Evolution Numerical Simulation
Authors: Hou Runzepu , Zeng Xiankui , Wang Dong , Wu Jichun
Published: November 2024

Large-scale watershed landscape evolution numerical simulations face computational challenges. While surrogate models help reduce computation time, they rarely address storage issues from grid subdivisions. In this study, spatial downscaling surrogate models for landscape evolution using eight types of machine learning methods (a total of thirty algorithms) were developed. With the Tarim River Basin in China as a case study, the performance of these surrogate models was systematically evaluated. Additionally, the landscape evolution and river channel migration under four future climate scenarios were predicted based on the best-performing surrogate model, and the contributions of influencing factors to landscape evolution were also quantified. The results showed that spatial downscaling surrogate model based on the fine Gaussian support vector machine method performed the best, with root mean square error less than 0.04 m and correlation coefficient greater than 0.93 when compared to the original model. During the period from 2021 to 2100, the elevation increases area were primarily observed near slopes and river channels, while decreases occurred in plains and basins, with elevation changes mainly ranging from -0.4 m to 1.1 m. River channel migration was concentrated in downstream plains, showing high sensitivity to climate change, with migration distances exceeding 15 km for both the Tarim River and the Qarqan River. The key factors influencing elevation changes are initial elevation, bedrock weathering rate, and tectonic uplift rate. The proposed method effectively resolves computational challenges in landscape evolution simulations, enhancing the feasibility of quantitative research on large-scale watershed evolution and river channel migration.
A Subsampling Based Neural Network for Spatial Data
Authors: Thakur Debjoy
Published: November 2024

The application of deep neural networks in geospatial data has become a trending research problem in the present day. A significant amount of statistical research has already been introduced, such as generalized least square optimization by incorporating spatial variance-covariance matrix, considering basis functions in the input nodes of the neural networks, and so on. However, for lattice data, there is no available literature about the utilization of asymptotic analysis of neural networks in regression for spatial data. This article proposes a consistent localized two-layer deep neural network-based regression for spatial data. We have proved the consistency of this deep neural network for bounded and unbounded spatial domains under a fixed sampling design of mixed-increasing spatial regions. We have proved that its asymptotic convergence rate is faster than that of [1]'s neural network and an improved generalization of [2]'s neural network structure. We empirically observe the rate of convergence of discrepancy measures between the empirical probability distribution of observed and predicted data, which will become faster for a less smooth spatial surface. We have applied our asymptotic analysis of deep neural networks to the estimation of the monthly average temperature of major cities in the USA from its satellite image. This application is an effective showcase of non-linear spatial regression. We demonstrate our methodology with simulated lattice data in various scenarios.
Geophysical products derived using Ocean Colour Monitor (OCM) on board EOS-06
Authors: Gupta Anurag , Ganguly Debojyoti , Ali Syed Moosa , Babu K. N. , Raman Mini , Thapliyal Pradeep Kumar , Sharma Rashmi
Published: November 2024

ocean colour radiometry at top of the atmosphere manifests the contribution of water leaving radiance with the response of absorption and scattering due to gaseous molecules and particles present in the atmosphere. Modulation of light with phytoplankton pigment concentration, total suspended matter, its vertical attenuation coefficients results in the spectral variation of remote sensing reflectances. Retrieval of remote sensing reflectance with an assumption of dark pixel approximation at NIR channels in OCM-3 works very well using well-known radiative transfer model while the same approach misleads the retrievals over optically turbid waters. To address this matter, the SWIR band with NIR is paired to overcome the retrieval of optical radiometry basically in blue channels as well. Ocean Colour Monitor (OCM) on board EOS − 06 was launched on Nov 26, 2022 with 13 bands in VNIR (400–1010 nm range) with ~ 1500 km swath for ocean colour monitoring. It is operated in two modes such as a) Local Area Coverage (LAC) mode, to cater mainly for user’s real-time requirement of high resolution data (366 m). b) Global Area Coverage (GAC) mode, to cover the global ocean at regular cycles in low resolution mode (1.1 km). It is ready to cater the global needs like potential fishing zones, harmful algal blooms, coastal monitoring system and all related to marine ecosystems as well. Arabian Sea near Gujarat coast is chosen as our study site to showcase the geophysical products derived using OCM-3 onboard EOS-06.
Um estudo sobre a atividade de curricularização da Extensão Universitária nas universidades federais brasileiras
Authors: FRUTUOSO Antonio Marcos Ribeiro , SILVA Jonathas Luiz Carvalho
Published: November 2024

Trata sobre a Extensão Universitária e a atuação das universidades federais brasileiras no contexto da curricularização. Define no problema de pesquisa, como as universidades federais brasileiras vêm atuando no processo de curricularização da Extensão Universitária? Estabelece como objetivo geral, abordar o processo de curricularização da Extensão Universitária nas universidades federais brasileiras, tendo em visto o cumprimento da meta do Plano Nacional de Educação. Determina na metodologia as finalidades exploratória e descritiva, tendo como estratégia o método bibliográfico, o que caracteriza a pesquisa qualitativa. Conclui que o processo de curricularização da Extensão Universitária vem se consolidando através das resoluções que determinam a creditação das atividades extensionistas nos currículos dos cursos de graduação levando em conta os prazos para implementação e a diversidade de práticas propostas.
Sudut Pandang Dan Kefahaman Warganet Terhadap Zakat Semasa Pandemik Covid-19 Di Malaysia Berdasarkan Teori Prosodi Semantik
Authors:   School of Languages, Civilisation and Philosophy, College of Arts and Sciences, Universiti Utara Malaysia, Kedah, Malaysia, Isam Hishamudin , Abd. Mutalib Mashetoh ,   School of Languages, Civilisation and Philosophy, College of Arts and Sciences, Universiti Utara Malaysia, Kedah, Malaysia, Md. Ali Rohaya ,   School of Languages, Civilisation and Philosophy, College of Arts and Sciences, Universiti Utara Malaysia, Kedah, Malaysia
Published: November 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic has left a huge impact on economic activities, thus affecting the people. The evidence is that 1.78 million data extracted from social media is related to socioeconomic issues. One of the most talked about topics is the issue of zakat (alms) in Malaysia. Intrigued by these problems, this article aims to examine the viewpoint and understanding of the alms, especially in relation to applications and helplines, as well as the issues of confusion in the meaning and concept of alms. By using the keyword [zakat] obtained through the virtual advertising operation on Facebook data, the study examined 35,000 posts (reply comments) detected from January to June 2020. All data analysed are based on the semantic prosody theory which expresses the view that each word has its own consistent aura, thus enabling it to be transferred and its meaning attached to other words in a sentence. The results of the analysis found that both issues highlighted often showed the collocation of the word [zakat] with the words [mohon/apply], [proses/process], [konsep/concept], [makna/meaning] and [asnaf/a group of Muslims worthy of receiving Muslim tithe or]. The understanding of the collocation relationship displays two forms of difficulties in alms which are difficulty in understanding the process and procedure of alms application and difficulty in understanding the concept and meaning of [zakat] and its details. The analysis also found that both issues were discussed cynically, causing misunderstanding if not properly addressed. This situation indicates that no matter how small the issue is raised, it should be taken care of in order to ensure that the alms management can be preserved in the name of Islam.
Building 1D lattice models with $G$-graded fusion category
Authors: Ning Shang-Qiang , Mao Bin-Bin , Wang Chenjie
Published: November 2024

We construct a family of one-dimensional (1D) quantum lattice models based on GG-graded unitary fusion category \mathcal{C}_G𝒞G. This family realize an interpolation between the anyon-chain models and edge models of 2D symmetry-protected topological states, and can be thought of as edge models of 2D symmetry-enriched topological states. The models display a set of unconventional global symmetries that are characterized by the input category \mathcal{C}_G𝒞G. While spontaneous symmetry breaking is also possible, our numerical evidence shows that the category symmetry constrains the models to the extent that the low-energy physics has a large likelihood to be gapless.
Non-Abelian symmetry-resolved entanglement entropy
Authors: Bianchi Eugenio , Dona Pietro , Kumar Rishabh
Published: November 2024

We introduce a mathematical framework for symmetry-resolved entanglement entropy with a non-Abelian symmetry group. To obtain a reduced density matrix that is block-diagonal in the non-Abelian charges, we define subsystems operationally in terms of subalgebras of invariant observables. We derive exact formulas for the average and the variance of the typical entanglement entropy for the ensemble of random pure states with fixed non-Abelian charges. We focus on compact, semisimple Lie groups. We show that, compared to the Abelian case, new phenomena arise from the interplay of locality and non-Abelian symmetry, such as the asymmetry of the entanglement entropy under subsystem exchange, which we show in detail by computing the Page curve of a many-body system with SU(2)SU(2) symmetry.
Changes in skeletal muscle in diabetes mellitus
Authors: Shatskaya O. A. , Bondarenko I. Z. , Kushnarenko S. S.
Published: November 2024

Diabetes mellitus is a group of metabolic (chemical processes) diseases characterized by chronic hyperglycemia. Globally, the number of patients with diabetes mellitus follows an upward trend with an annual increase. As the disease progresses, the frequency of the micro and macrovascular complications of diabetes gradually increases. In recent years, much attention has been paid to the effect of diabetes mellitus on the skeletal muscle status. Structural and functional abnormalities, and metabolic disorders in skeletal muscles that develop with ageing are also specifically attributed to patients with diabetes, but they manifest themselves at an earlier age. Chronic hyperglycemia can accelerate the ageing process and play a crucial role in the development of diabetic myopathy, which is characterized by decreased muscle mass, skeletal muscle weakness and atrophy, pain, impaired sensation and even quadriplegia in severe cases. A reduction in the rate of muscle protein synthesis and a rise in the rate of its degradation is a pathophysiological sign of diabetic muscle atrophy. Research into the molecular mechanisms of diabetic myopathy will aid the development of effective methods of prevention and treatment, however, the achievement and maintenance of glycaemic targets plays a critical role in ensuring health of skeletal muscles, which will make it possible to achieve the reduction in disability and improve the patients’ quality of life. Advanced glucometer models fitted with a range of additional functions allow for structured self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG), analysis of the obtained data and timely correction of therapy, active involvement of patients in the process of diabetes management, which will significantly increase the effectiveness of disease management and reduce the risk of complications in patients with diabetes.
Assessment of metabolic markers of cardiorenal disorders in patients with arterial hypertension and metabolic syndrome
Authors: Vlasova V. P. , Seskina A. A. , Myshkina N. A.
Published: November 2024

Introduction. Cardiorenal disorders (CRN) in arterial hypertension (AH) occur with interdependent dysfunction of the cardiovascular and renal systems. The concept of cardio-reno-metabolic health (CRMH) defines a dependent relationship between the clinical and pathogenetic manifestations of heart and kidney diseases in patients with metabolic disorders (MN).

Aim. To study the metabolic markers of CRN in patients with hypertension and in combination with metabolic syndrome (MS).

Materials and methods. The functions of the heart, kidneys, and lipid profile were studied in patients aged 40 to 69 years with hypertension and with hypertension in combination with MS.

Results. The average eGFR values (estimated glomerular filtration rate) based on cystatin C are 53,5% lower than those based on creatinine (p = 0.0001). Patients with hypertension combined with MS were 42.7% more likely to have chronic kidney disease (CKD) C3aA2, 21.2% more likely to have C3bA2; the level of highly sensitive C–reactive protein (hs-CRP) was 42.8% higher compared with patients with hypertension without MN (p = 0.0001). Cystatin C values positively correlate with systolic blood pressure (SAD); eGFR has a negative association with SAD in both groups (p < 0.05). The presence of chronic heart failure with a low ejection fraction (CHF) in combination with chronic kidney disease (CKD) with moderate (C3a A2) and significantly reduced (C3b A2) renal function allows us to state the presence of CRN in 13.3% of patients with hypertension and in 17.7% of patients with hypertension combined with MS (p = 0.0001). Dyslipidemia and atherogenic lipid levels are 122% higher in patients with hypertension combined with MS, hyperlipoproteinemia (a) is 79% more common in patients with CRN on the background of MN (p = 0.0001).

Conclusion. Elevated lipoprotein (a) (LP (a)) concentrations and dyslipidemia in patients with hypertension are associated with cardiorenal and metabolic disorders.
Atrial fibrillation and multimorbidity: How to choose the perfect direct oral anticoagulant?
Authors: Ostroumova O. D. , Dubinina A. V. , Telkova S. S. , Kochetkov A. I. , Gavrilova N. E. , Ebzeeva E. Yu. , Arablinskiy A. V. , Milovanova O. A.
Published: November 2024

Atrial fibrillation is one of the most common tachyarrhythmias, the prevalence of which is steadily increasing due to an increase in the proportion of the elderly population. The presence of a comorbidities in elderly patients with atrial fibrillation, increasing the risk of thromboembolic events, has a significant impact on the clinical strategy of atrial fibrillation, as well as on the choice of therapeutic tactics, especially anticoagulant therapy with proven efficacy and low risk of bleeding. One of the most common concomitant diseases in patients with atrial fibrillation are chronic kidney disease, anemia and coronary artery disease. These comorbidities in patients with atrial fibrillation not only increase the risk of stroke and/or systemic embolism, but are also accompanied by an increased risk of cardiovascular mortality, all causes mortality, and hemorrhagic events. At the same time, according to research data, about half of polymorbid patients with atrial fibrillation do not receive anticoagulant therapy, which indicates a low awareness of physicians about rational pharmacotherapy based on clinical recommendations for this cohort of patients. The drug of choice with the most studied safety profile and a high degree of efficacy in these patients is apixaban from the group of direct oral anticoagulants. Unlike vitamin K antagonists and other representatives of direct oral anticoagulants, apixaban, according to the conducted studies, is associated with a more significant reduction in the risk of thromboembolic events, and most importantly, has a lesser effect on the risks of bleeding in patients, predisposing to hemorrhagic complications, with atrial fibrillationand concomitant coronary artery disease, anemia, chronic kidney disease.