bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Studies on structural heterogeneity of high-strength sheet materials
Authors: Shvets Volodymyr , Bulakh Pavlo , Maslo Oleksandr
Published: December 2023

The work is devoted to the actual scientific and practical task of applying the methods of researching the processes of damage accumulation in metals under the conditions of active operation of structures and selecting the necessary parameters characterizing the degree of material degradation to assess the load-bearing capacity of structural elements, taking into account their current damage.

The approbation of the express control method for diagnosing the current state of the surface of a large area based on the characteristics of the dispersion of material hardness values is described. It is shown that it is possible to obtain a quantitative characteristic of the state of the metal using the LM - hardness method, according to which the parameters of the dispersion of its values during mass measurements of hardness are accepted as informative signs of the state of the metal. Experimental results were obtained during the study of high-strength materials such as Armox 500T, Hardox 450, etc. The obtained results made it possible to improve the quality of non-destructive testing of metal by the characteristics of dispersion of material hardness values and to perform a number of practical works on assessing the condition of real metal blanks used in the creation of responsible technical products or structural elements
Influence of the temperature of the extruded filaments on the strength parameters of thin-walled products
Authors: Salenko Oleksandr , Orel Vadum , Habuzian Halina , Kostenko Аnton , Tsurkan Daniil
Published: December 2023

The process of FDM printing is considered from the point of view of ensuring the durability (including long-term) of reproduced parts. The peculiarity of the process is that during the forming of the part, loose structures arise, in which defects of three types are formed (structural defects, process defects, and material defects), which later lead to the formation of cracks capable of disrupting the integrity of the product. Among several factors causing the development of adhesive damage, one of the important ones is the melt temperature factor related to the extruder temperature. A model was created to determine the dependence of the temperature of the filament extruded onto the table on the temperature in the extruder, which was additionally identified by thermometric measurements. The dependences of the tensile strength parameters on the melt temperature were obtained.
Analysis of existing designs and technologies for the manufacture of cumulative supplies
Authors: Mykhalchuk Dmytro , Pimanov Valeriy
Published: December 2023

The article is devoted to the analysis of designs and technologies for the production of cumulative supplies. The article discusses the principle of operation of cumulative munitions, their classification and various manufacturing methods and designs that are used in these stocks. The authors of the article present the existing technologies and methods for the manufacture of cumulative supplies, their advantages and disadvantages are indicated. In addition, the possibilities of improving the designs and manufacturing technologies of cumulative supplies are discussed, which can lead to an improvement in their characteristics and increase their effectiveness in combat conditions. The article has great potential for use in scientific research and design of new cumulative munitions with improved characteristics.
Modeling the process of forming the bottom part of the cup by stamping and rolling
Authors: Godziy Sergiy , Myronenko Vitaliy , Lavrinenkov Anton
Published: December 2023

In this work, the process of stamping by rolling the formation of the bottom part of the cup for subsequent drawing with thinning is considered. The rolling stamping process with rotation of one tool and both tools was simulated.
Prevention Due to Assembled Boulders Against Local Scouring in Low-head Hydraulic Structures
Authors: Yasuda Youichi , Suzuki Shuntaro
Published: December 2023

In low-head hydraulic structures, the prevention against local scouring of the river bed downstream of concrete aprons must be required during flood stages. Generally, protection blocks are installed downstream of the apron, but they do not control the flow passing through the blocks to reduce the velocity near the bottom. In most of river fields, the installation of protection blocks may not help protect the river bed. In the case of low drop-structures, hydraulic jump occurs during flood stages just below the drop-structures. The main flow near the bottom continues far downstream, and a local scouring is formed. In the case of the movable weir, a local scouring occurs downstream of the weir during flood stages. There is little information on the countermeasure against the local scouring below the movable weir during flood stages. Recently, the authors proposed the installation of consecutively assembled boulders instead of protection blocks. This paper presents the effect of installing consecutively assembled boulders on the prevention of local scouring for both low drop-structures and movable weirs. The effect of seepage on reducing flow velocity near the bottom has been shown, the comparison between the installation of protection blocks and the installation of consecutively assembled boulders has been discussed. In the case of the movable weir, the flow velocity near the bottom below the protection blocks is always larger than that below the assembled boulders, in which the effect of the deflected flow formation by the support pier is not negligible.
A career guidance for social justice must include many voices
Authors: Poulsen Bo Klindt
Published: December 2023

This article discusses the need to make the understanding of social justice in career guidance a collective task for professional communities. The article explores various understandings of social justice in career guidance and how these have been translated into frameworks for practice. Drawing on the theory of communities of practice, the article argues that a professional understanding of social justice could be developed through professional communities of practice with the aim of promoting a pluralism of understandings, not an ultimate consensus. Finally, the article presents a proposed model for such work.
Teeth amount and its impact on wrinkles severity
Authors: Worona Marta , Matthews-Brzozowska Teresa
Published: December 2023

Aim. The aim of the study was to determine the relationship between missing teeth in the oral cavity and upper face wrinkles.Material and methods. The research consisted of two stages – a retrospective and a current study, in a retrospective study documentation of 100 patients was obtained, in a current study took part 50 patients. Extraoral and intraoral medical photographs of the patient`s faces were taken. Photographs from the retrospective and the current study were assessed by 3 investigators for the severity of upper facial wrinkles, based on the Skin Aging Atlas reference scale. Volume 1, Caucasian Type. Paris: EditionsMed'Com.Results. In a retrospective analysis, a result close to statistical significance with a negative Spearman's coefficient was obtained for the relationship – reduced number of the teeth in the lateral segments and CF (wrinkles around the eyes). In a current study statistical significance was obtained for correlations: Kłp ( right side eye wrinkles), KŁl (left side eye wrinkles), UEW (left side suborbital wrinkles).Conclusions. There is a need to treat even single missing teeth in the lateral segments in order to preserve the young appearance of the face.
Facial aesthetic medicine treatments in the socio-social aspect
Authors: Matthews-Kozanecka Maja
Published: December 2023

Interventional facial aesthetic medicine allows the facial skin to maintain a favorable appearance at any age, both in women and men. However, it is important to remember how many factors affect the condition of the facial skin. Some of them are presented in the paper.
The Big Bang Was Not the Beginning, but a Repeating Pattern of Expansion and Contraction of Space Time
Authors: Ladhani Amrit
Published: December 2023

The cyclic universe theory is a model of cosmic evolution according to which the universe undergoes endless cycles of expansion and cooling, each beginning with a big bang and ending in a big crunch. In this paper, the researcher finds a unique property of Space-time, this particular and marvelous nature of space shows us that space can shrink, expand, and stretch. This property of space is caused the size of the Universe changing over time: growing or shrinking. The observed accelerated expansion, which relates the stretching of Shrunk space for the new theory, is derived. This model is based on three underlying notions: First, the Big Bang was not the beginning of Space-time, but rather at the very beginning fraction of a second there was an infinite force of infinite Shrunk space in the cosmic singularity, that force gave rise to the big bang and caused the rapidly growing of space-time, and all other forms of energy are transformed into matter and radiation and a new period of expansion and cooling begins. Second, there was a previous phase leading up to it, with multiple cycles of contraction and expansion that repeat indefinitely. Third, the two principal long-range forces are the gravitational force and the repulsive force generated by shrunk space. They are the two most fundamental quantities in the universe that govern cosmic evolution. They may provide the clockwork mechanism that operates our eternal cyclic universe. The space will not continue to expand forever, no need however, for dark energy and dark matter. This model of Space-time and its unique properties enables us to describe a sequence of events from the Big Bang to the Big Crunch.
A Technical Comparative Heart Disease Prediction Framework Using Boosting Ensemble Techniques
Authors: Nissa Najmu , Jamwal Sanjay , Neshat Mehdi
Published: December 2023

The World Health Organization (WHO) has released reports indicating that heart disorders hold the unfortunate distinction of being the primary cause of death worldwide. Shockingly, an astonishing estimated 17.9 million lives are claimed by heart diseases annually, accounting for an alarming 31% of all global deaths. With all the flaws in the clinical situation, it is frequently challenging to assess the severity of cardiac disease and forecast its course of progression due to heterogeneity and complex interplay of factors. Therefore, early heart disease detection is essential for effective therapy. To address these challenges, Machine Learning (ML) boosting algorithms play a pivotal role as the main components of predictive analytics required to do this. The main objective of this study is to develop a comprehensive comparative framework to predict heart diseases using state-of-the-art machine learning with boosting techniques such as Decision Tree, Random Forest, Gradient Boosting, Catboost, XGboost, Light GBM, and Adaboost. To evaluate the performance of the models, a large heart disorders dataset is used from the UCI machine learning repository, comprised of 26 feature-based numerical and categorical attributes with 8763 samples from all over the globe. The Experimental results reveal that AdaBoost attained the highest accuracy of 95% and outperforms other algorithms concerning various performance measures like precision= 0.98, recall= 0.95, specificity= 0.95, f1-score=0.01, Negative predicted value= 0.83, False positive rate= 0.04, False negative rate= 0.04 and False Development rate= 0.01.
Effect of Community-Based Health Education Led by Women’s Groups on Mothers’ Knowledge of Obstetric Danger Signs and Birth Preparedness and Complication Readiness Practices in Southern Ethiopia: A Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Yoseph Amanuel , Teklesilasie Wondwosen , Guillen-Grima Francisco , Astatkie Ayalew
Published: December 2023

AbstractIntroduction: Increasing knowledge of obstetric danger signs (ODS) and encouraging birth preparedness and complication readiness (BPCR) practices are strategies to increase skilled maternal health service utilization in low-income countries. One of the methods to increase mothers' knowledge about ODS and promote BPCR practice is through health education intervention (HEI). However, the effect of context-specific community-based health education led by women's groups on these outcomes has not been comprehensively studied, and the existing evidence is inconclusive. Thus, we aimed to evaluate the effect of a context-specific community-based HEI led by women's groups on mothers' knowledge regarding ODS and BPCR practices in southern Ethiopia.Methods: An open-label, two-arm parallel group cluster-randomized controlled trial was conducted from January to August 2023 on pregnant women from 24 clusters (kebeles) (12 interventions and 12 controls) in the northern zone of the Sidama region. The Open Data Kit smartphone application was utilized to collect data. The intention-to-treat analysis was used to compare outcomes between groups. We fitted multi-level mixed-effects modified Poisson regression with robust standard error to account for between and within cluster effects. Results: One thousand and seventy pregnant women (540 in the intervention and 530 in the control clusters) responded to this study, making the overall response rate 95.02%. Excessive vaginal bleeding (94.3% in the interventional group vs. 88.7% in the control group) was the commonest ODS mentioned during childbirth. Overall, 68.7% of women in the intervention group and 36.2% of mothers in the control group had good knowledge of ODS (P-value < 0.001). Saving money and materials (97.1% in the interventional group vs. 92.7% in the control group) was the most frequently practiced BPCR plan. Overall, 64.3% of women in the intervention group and 38.9% of mothers in the control group practiced BPCR (P-value < 0.001). HEI significantly increased overall knowledge of ODS (adjusted risk ratio [ARR]: 1.71; 99% CI: 1.14-2.57) and improved overall BPCR practice (ARR: 1.55; 99% CI: 1.02-2.39). Conclusions: A community-based HEI led by women's groups improved mothers' knowledge regarding ODS and BPCR practices in a rural setting in southern Ethiopia. Interventions designed to increase women's knowledge of ODS and improve BPCR practice must implement context-specific, community-based HEI that aligns with World Health Organization recommendations. Trial registration: NCT05865873
Implementation of an Artificially Empathetic Robot Swarm
Authors: Siwek Joanna , Żywica Patryk , Siwek Przemysław , Wójcik Adrian , Woch Witold , Pierzyński Konrad , Dyczkowski Krzysztof
Published: December 2023

This paper introduces an innovative framework for the integration of artificial empathy into robot swarms to enhance communication and cooperation. The proposed model relies on fuzzy state vectors to represent the knowledge and environment of individual agents, accommodating uncertainties in the real world. Utilizing similarity measures, the model compares states, enabling empathetic reasoning for synchronized swarm behavior. A practical application example demonstrates the model’s efficacy in a robot swarm striving for a common goal. The evaluation methodology involves the Open Source Physical-based Experimentation Platform (OPEP), emphasizing empirical validation in real-world scenarios. The paper proposes a transitional environment that allows automated and repeatable execution of experiments on a swarm of robots using physical devices.
Retinoic Acid Action in Cumulus Cells: Implications to Oocyte Development
and In Vitro Fertilization
Authors: Sidell Neil , Rajakumar Augustine
Published: December 2023

In the field of human in vitro fertilization (IVF), selecting the best oocyte for freezing or embryo for transfer remains an important focus of clinical practice. Although several techniques are and have been used for this goal, results have generally not been favorable and/or are invasive such that damage to some embryos occurs, resulting in a reduced number of healthy births. Therefore, the search continues for non-invasive oocyte and embryo quality markers that signal the development of high-quality embryos. Multiple studies indicate the important positive effects of retinoic acid (RA) on oocyte maturation and function. Here, we present evidence that part of these effects are via the ability of RA to regulate the activity of connexin 43 (Cx43), the main subunit of gap junction channels in human cumulus granulosa cells (CGC). These channels play an important role in regulating the micronutrient environment of the oocyte by allowing the transfer of ions, metabolites, and small molecules. Multiple studies have demonstrated the requirement for Cx43 in CGC for the normal progression of folliculogenesis, and that increased expression of this connexin is linked to improved developmental competence of the oocyte. The data has shown that RA can up-regulate gap junction intercellular communication (GJIC) in the cumulus-oocyte complex by a non-genomic mechanism that results in the dephosphorylation of Cx43 and enhanced GJIC. Recognizing the positive role played by gap junctions in CGC on oocyte development and the regulation of Cx43 by RA, the findings have highlighted the possibility that CGC RA levels may serve as a non-invasive indicator for selecting high-quality oocytes for IVF procedures. In addition, the data suggests that manipulation of Cx43 with retinoid compounds could provide new pharmacological approaches to improve IVF outcomes in cases of failed implantation, recurrent miscarriage, or in certain diseases that are characterized by reduced fecundity, such as endometriosis.
Modelling the Distribution of Cognitive Outcomes for Early Stage Neurocognitive Disorders: A Model Comparison Approach
Authors: Saffari Seyed Ehsan , Soo See Ann , Mohammadi Raziyeh , Ng Kok Pin , Greene William , Kandiah Negaenderan
Published: December 2023

Background: Cognitive for patients with neurocognitive disorders are mostly measured by Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) and Visual Cognitive Assessment Test (VCAT) as screening tools. These cognitive scores are usually left skewed and the results of association analysis might not be robust. This study aims to study the distribution of the cognitive outcomes and to discuss potential solutions. Materials and Methods: The inverse transformed cognitive outcomes are modelled using different statistical distributions. Robustness of the proposed models are checked under different scenarios: with intercept only, models with covariate, with and without bootstrapping. Results: Main results were based on VCAT score, and validated via MoCA score. Findings suggested that the inverse transformation method improves modelling the cognitive scores compared to the conventional methods using the original cognitive scores. Association of baseline characteristics (age, gender and years of education) and the cognitive outcomes were reported as estimates and 95% confidence intervals. Bootstrap methods improved the estimate precision and the bootstrapped standard errors of the estimates are more robust. Cognitive outcomes are widely analyzed using linear regression models with default normal distribution as a conventional method. We compared the results of our suggested models with the normal distribution under various scenarios. Goodness-of-fit measurements were compared between proposed models and conventional methods. Conclusions: The findings support the use of the inverse transformation method to model the cognitive outcomes instead of the original cognitive scores for early stage neurocognitive disorders where the cognitive outcomes are left skewed.
Moral Resilience Reduces Levels of Quiet Quitting, Job Burnout, and Turnover Intention among Nurses: Evidence in the Post COVID-19 Era
Authors: Galanis Petros , Moisoglou Ioannis , Katsiroumpa Aglaia , Vraka Irene , Siskou Olga , Konstantakopoulou Olympia , Kaitelidou Daphne
Published: December 2023

The aim of the study was to examine the impact of moral resilience on quiet quitting, job burnout, and turnover intention among nurses. A cross-sectional study was implemented in Greece in November 2023. The revised Rushton Moral Resilience Scale was used to measure moral resilience among nurses, the Quiet Quitting Scale to measure levels of quiet quitting, and the single item burnout measure to measure job burnout. Moreover, a valid six-point Likert scale was used to measure turnover intention. All multivariable models were adjusted for the following confounders: gender, age, understaffed department, shift work, and work experience. The multivariable analysis identified a negative relationship between moral resilience and quiet quitting, job burnout, and turnover intention. In particular, we found that increased response to moral adversity and increased moral efficacy were associated with decreased detachment score, lack of initiative score, and lack of motivation score. Additionally, personal integrity was associated with reduced detachment score, while relational integrity was associated with reduced detachment score, and lack of initiative score. Moreover, response to moral adversity was associated with reduced job burnout. Also, increased levels of response to moral adversity were associated with lower probability of turnover intention. Moral resilience can be an essential protective factor against high levels of quiet quitting, job burnout, and turnover intention among nurses.
Prevalence of Hepatitis C Virus among Hospitalized Patients in a Tertiary Hospital in Italy: The Basis for a National Screening Assessment Model?
Authors: Morsica Giulia , Locatelli Massimo , Hernandez-Ibarburu Gema , Rusconi Francesca , Segovia-Hilara Alba , Di Napoli Davide , Moro Matteo , Mazzitelli Salvatore , Hasson Hamid , Esposti Federico , Mazzuconi Roberts , Castagna Antonella
Published: December 2023

Free-of-charge HCV screening in some key populations and in 1969–1989 birth cohorts have been funded in Italy as the first step to diagnosing individuals unaware of their infection.
The aim of this study is to use available in-hospital routine screening data to understand the inpatients HCV screening in a region of North Italy.
A retrospective search of in-hospital patients tested for HCV-antibody (HCV-Ab) from January 2017 to the end of December 2022, was conducted according to age categories (older than 76 years, birth group 1947-1968; birth group1969-1989 and two other categories with patients younger than 33 years) using the TriNetX network.
Of 42,805 in-hospital patients tested, 1,297 (3.03%) resulted HCV-Ab positive.
The proportion decreased from 2017 to 2022 (from 2.03% to 0.36%) years). The higher prevalence of HCV-Ab was in patients older than 76 years (5.3%) while, the lowest was in the younger birth cohort (2000-2022, 0.16%). Of 1,297 patients found HCV-Ab positive, only 198 (15.3%) were tested for the presence of HCV RNA. Although the birth cohort 1969-1989 had a lower seroprevalence (1.5%), they represented the most affected age group with 44.4% of HCV RNA positivity. The in-hospital HCV screening including birth cohort 1947-1989 could be a valuable option respect to the screening for birth group 1969-1989 in the general population. Since a high proportion of patients were not tested for HCV RNA during hospitalization, reflex testing promptly ascertaining an active infection could facilitate linkage to care to stop the burden of HCV.
Scapular Kinematics in Overhead Squat with and without Elastic Resistance: Insights from Kinetic Chain Approach and Therapeutic Implications for Shoulder Rehabilitation
Authors: Salles Fagner Luiz Pacheco , Pascoal Augusto Gil
Published: December 2023

The overhead squat movement engages various bodily structures, and its interaction with three-dimensional elastic resistance along the kinetic chain approach remains insufficiently comprehended. This study aimed to describe the scapular kinematics during an overhead squat with the forearm in a supination exercise against an ER and clarify the therapeutic potential of this exercise on scapular rehabilitation. Using an electromagnetic tracking system, we recorded the three-dimensional shoulder kinematics of 19 male participants across seven humeral elevation positions. These positions were captured at 15-degree intervals, spanning from 30 to 120 degrees. The results indicated notable distinctions in scapular upward rotation [F(1,17)=6.09, p=0.024] and scapular posterior tilt [F(1,17)=6.04, p=0.025] between the phases. Furthermore, the interactions revealed significant differences in resistance and phases during humeral elevation for scapular upward/downward rotation [F(3.77,62.48)=7.99, p<0.001], scapular internal/external rotation [F(2.98, 50.64, p<0.001)], and scapular tilt [F(2.58, 43.81)=4.76, p=0.008]. The findings demonstrated that increasing resistance through elastic resistance played a pivotal role in enhancing scapular stability throughout the humerus elevation motion. This underscores the potential of the overhead squat movement as a valuable tool for both shoulder assessment and treatment.
Decision Support Systems in Silvicultural Practices and the Essential Prioritization of Ecosystem Services: A Review
Authors: Yadav Neelesh , Rakholia Shrey , Yosef Reuven
Published: December 2023

In this study, tree selection/plantation DSS (Decision Support Systems) were reviewed and assessed based on essential objectives in the available literature. We reviewed existing DSS using multiple data sources and available online resources such as web interfaces. We compared the existing DSS, focusing primarily on five primary objectives in this study, which DSS may address when it comes to the tree selection, including a) Climate resilience, b) Infrastructure/Space Optimization, c) Agroforestry, d) Ecosystem services, e) Urban sustainability. Climate resilience of tree species and urban sustainability is addressed relatively less in existing systems, which can be holistically internalized in future DSS tools Based on this review, DNN (Deep Neural Networks) is recommended to address achieving trade-offs between complex objectives such as maximizing ecosystem services, climate resilience of tree species, maintaining Agroforestry, and other benefits.
Epstein-Barr Virus-negative Diffuse Large B Cell Lymphoma in a X-linked Severe Combined Immunodeficiency Patient: A Very Rare Condition
Authors: Rochate Dina , Duarte Sara , Gomes Rita S. , Peixeiro Rita Pinho , Silva João Vaz , Rodrigues Ângelo , Leite Luís , Branca Rosa , Lemos Sónia , Guimarães Joana , Roncon Susana , Ferreira Ana Maia , Vaz Carlos Pinho
Published: December 2023

Severe combined immunodeficiency disorders (SCID) are a genetically heterogeneous group of inherited defects characterized by severe abnormalities of immune system development and function that lead to a wide spectrum in clinical manifestations. A subgroup of patients presents a disabling and life-threatening clinical course. In these cases, allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant provides a curative approach. The occurrence of SCID-associated lymphoproliferative disorders is rare and occur mostly in adenosine deaminase-deficient severe combined immunodeficiency disorders, after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant. Epstein Barr virus infection is present in the majority of individuals with primary immunodeficiency developing lymphoma, revealing compromised anti-tumour surveillance of virally transformed cells. Herein, we report a rare case of diffuse large B cell lymphoma occurring in an Epstein Barr virus negative, non-transplanted X-linked severe combined immunodeficiency 4-months-old infant, successfully treated with immunotherapy and allogeneic stem cell transplantation. This case suggests that Epstein Barr virus -independent mechanism of neoplastic transformation must take action in severe combined immunodeficiency associated lymphoma and unveils the curative potential of donor T cells after allogeneic transplantation.
Analysis of a Two-Phase Flow Based First Wall Cooling System for Water-Cooled Fusion Reactor Blankets
Authors: Garg Vishal , Carraretto Igor Matteo , Colombo Luigi Pietro Maria
Published: December 2023

In a Water-Cooled Lithium-Lead (WCLL) Breeding Blanket (BB), the heat generated by the plasma thermal radiation and nuclear reactions is removed mainly by two components; namely, the First Wall (FW) and the Breeding Zone (BZ). The FW faces the neutrons and charged particles fluxes generated by the fusion reactions and the thermal radiation coming from the plasma. The present work takes into account the FW cooling system inspired by the WCLL BB 2018 design of DEMO 2017 baseline. Unlike the baseline where a Pressurized-Water Reactor (PWR) setup is used for the coolant, various setup between the Boiling Water Reactor (BWR) and the High-Pressure (HP) BWR are studied in the present work operating in the Two-Phase Flow (TPF) regime. The 3D model of the FW in the WCLL BB 2018 design is simplified into a 1D model and a steady state analysis is carried out to optimize the mass flow rate of the water and the number of parallel channels at the BB cells at different poloidal locations of the reactor, which helps not only in reducing the used coolant but also in improving the Tritium Breeding Ratio (TBR). The present work takes into account forced convection in the liquid only region, the subcooled boiling region, and the saturated boiling region using suitable empirical or semi-empirical models from the literature. The results are validated against the existing results in the literature. In the end, related conclusions are made regarding the pros and cons of the studied operating conditions.
A Critical Review of Climate Change Impacts on Groundwater Resources: A Focus on Current Status, Future Possibilities, and Role of Simulation Models
Authors: Veeraswamy Davamani , Ezra John Joseph , Chidamparam Poornachandhra , Boopathi Gopalakrishnan , Subramanian Arulmani , Ettiyagounder Parameswari , Santhosh Anandhi , Srinivasulu Asadi , Lal Alvin , Naidu Ravi
Published: December 2023

The Earth's water resources, totaling 1.386 billion cubic kilometers, predominantly consist of saltwater in oceans. Groundwater, plays a pivotal role, with 99% of usable freshwater supporting 1.5–3 billion people as drinking water source and 60–70% for irrigation. Climate change, with temperature increase and altered precipitation patterns, directly impacts groundwater systems, affecting recharge, discharge, and temperature. Hydrological models are crucial for assessing climate change effects on groundwater, aiding in management decisions. Advanced hydrological models, incorporating data assimilation and improved process representation, contribute to understanding complex systems. Recent studies, employ numerical models to assess climate change impacts on groundwater recharge that could help in management of Groundwater. Groundwater vulnerability assessments vary with the spatial and temporal considerations, as well as assumptions in modelling groundwater susceptibility. The review assesses the vulnerability of groundwater to climate change and stresses the importance of accurate assessments for sustainable water resource management. It highlights challenges in assumptions related to soil and aquifer properties, multiple stressors, adaptive capacity, topography, aquifer properties, and groundwater contamination processes and gradual sea level rise scenarios and realistic representations of the region of study. The advancements in hydrological modelling, including the integration of uncertainty quantification and remote sensing data, artificial intelligence, could assist in the efforts to improve models for assessing the impacts of climate change on hydrological.
The Effectiveness of International Humanitarian Intervention in Conflict Zones
Authors: Saaida Mohammed
Published: December 2023

This academic article examines the effectiveness of international humanitarian intervention in conflict zones. Humanitarian intervention refers to the use of military, diplomatic, or economic measures by external actors to protect civilians, promote human rights, and alleviate suffering in areas affected by armed conflict. The research employs a comprehensive approach, incorporating content analysis, case study, and historical analysis in its methodology. It explores the key challenges faced by international actors in implementing humanitarian interventions and evaluates their impact on conflict resolution and post-conflict reconstruction. Through this thorough analysis of case studies and scholarly literature, this article contributes to the ongoing debate surrounding the efficacy of international humanitarian intervention.
Dysfunctional Postnatal Mitochondrial Energy Metabolism in a Patient with Neurodevelopmental Defects Caused by Intrauterine Growth Restriction Due to Idiopathic Placental Insufficiency
Authors: Uittenbogaard Martine , Gropman Andrea L. , Whitehead Matthew T , Brantner Christine A , Gropman Eliana , Chiaramello Anne
Published: December 2023

We report the case of a four-year-old male patient with a complex medical history born prematurely as the result of intrauterine growth restriction due to placental insufficiency. His clinical manifestations include severe neurodevelopmental deficits, global developmental delay, Pierre-Robin sequence, and intractable epilepsy with both generalized and focal features. The proband’s low levels of citrulline and lactic acidosis provoked by administration of depakoke are evocative of a mitochondrial etiology. However, the genotype-phenotype correlation remains undefined in the absence of nuclear and mitochondrial pathogenic variants detected by deep sequencing of both genomes. However, live-cell mitochondrial metabolic investigations provide evidence of a deficient oxidative phosphorylation pathway responsible for ATP synthesis, leading to chronic energy crisis in the proband. In addition, our metabolic analysis reveals metabolic plasticity in favor of glycolysis for ATP synthesis. Our mitochondrial morphometric analysis by transmission electron microscopy confirms the suspected mitochondrial etiology, as the proband’s mitochondria exhibit an immature morphology with poorly developed and rare cristae. Thus, our results support the concept that sub-optimal levels of intrauterine oxygen and nutrients alter fetal mitochondrial metabolic reprogramming toward OXPHOS leading to a deficient postnatal mitochondrial energy metabolism. In conclusion, our collective studies shed light on the long-term postnatal mitochondrial pathophysiology caused by intrauterine growth restriction due to idiopathic placental insufficiency and its negative impact on the energy-demanding development of fetal and postnatal brain.
The Significant Role of Point-Of Care Coagulation Studies: Shorter Cardiac Surgery, Better Renal Function and Tranexamic Acid Can Not Alone Reduce Early Platelet Transfusions
Authors: Skidmore Kimberly L. , Borne Grant , Kallurkar Anusha , Pavlickova Denisa , Myrcik Dariusz , Varrassi Giustino , Shekoohi Sahar , Kaye Alan D.
Published: December 2023

Introduction: In recent years, platelets have been in short supply and high demand. Approximately one in five cardiac surgery patients require platelets. In our safety-net hospital, however, the incidence is over 40%. Renal dysfunction, long cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) times, and absence of tranexamic acid (TXA) are common risk factors for requiring platelet transfusions. Methods: Our hypothesis was fewer platelets would be transfused within two hours after bypass under these three conditions: creatinine is low, predicted surgery duration is short, and TXA is uniformly administered. Our anesthesia department designed this retrospective before-and-after observational study when the surgery department decided to narrow preoperative criteria respective to these three elements. The Institutional Review Board of Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center Shreveport approved of the protocol and waived individual informed consent. We compared timing of platelet transfusions (within 7 days) in consecutive patients who had CPB during the first ninety days of 2022 to those in 2023 using t-tests in SAS 9.3. Confounders included age, weight, anticoagulants, gender, and the platelet counts and hemoglobin immediately prior to platelet transfusion. Secondary outcomes were postoperative day two creatinine and other components transfused. Results: Preoperatively creatinine tended to be higher in 2022 at 1.5 vs 1.1, reaching significance postoperatively at 1.9 vs 1.1 (p=0.02). Bypass times decreased from 174 to 124 minutes (p=0.06). TXA use increased from 18 of 28 to 26 of 29 patients. Platelet counts increased on bypass from 142 to 173 (p=0.06). Platelet and hemoglobin nadirs were higher (day 3: 8g/dL vs 8.8, p=0.04; 98 vs 138, p=0.005). Platelet units transfused per patient tended to increase (0.75+/-1 vs 0.93+/-1.5); if exposed, patients tended to receive more units (2.1+/-1.3 vs 2.5+/-1.4) sooner. Changes in transfusions for red cells were nonsignificant at 1.97 per patient to 1.21, cryoprecipitate 0.36 to 0.69, and FFP 0.93 to 0.83. Conclusions: This is the first study examining timing of platelet transfusions after bypass. In the present investigation, we measured platelet count during bypass and prothrombin hours after arrival in the intensive care. Platelets were often administered in sets of two because of scarce immediate supply, partly from lack of an agitator table. More importantly, these data support a need for point-of-care thromboelastograms intraoperatively, but the cost has been prohibitive. Some centers’ algorithms list triggers for transfusion by fibrinogen and prothrombin times, available immediately after separation from bypass.
Thermodynamics of Irreversible Processes: Fundamental Constraints, Representations, and Formulation of Boundary Conditions
Authors: Procopio Giuseppe , Pezzotti Chiara , Cocco Davide , Giona Massimiliano
Published: December 2023

Starting from the analysis of the lack of positivity of the Cattaneo heat equation, the article addresses the thermodynamic relevance of the positivity constraint in irreversible thermodynamics, than is at least as important as the entropic constraints. The fulfillment of this condition in hyperbolic models leads to the parametrization of the concentration fields with respect to internal variables associated with the microscopic dynamics. Using Brownian motion theory as a landmarking example for deriving macroscopic transport equations from the equations of motion at the particle/molecular level, we discuss two typical problems involving hydrodynamic interactions at microscale: surface chemical reactions at a solid interface of a diffusing reactant, and mass-balance equations in a complex viscoelastic fluid, in which the physics of the interaction leads either to the overcome the parabolic diffusion model or to consider the parametrization of the concentration with respect to the degrees of freedom associated with the relaxation dynamics of the solvent fluid.
Dynamic Clustering and Scaling Behavior of Active Particles under Confinement
Authors: Becton Matthew , Hou Jixin , Zhao Yiping , Wang Xianqiao
Published: December 2023

A systematic investigation of the dynamic clustering behavior of active particles under confinement, including the effects of both particle density and active driving force is presented based on a hybrid coarse-grained molecular dynamics simulation. First, a series of scaling laws were derived with power relationships for the dynamic clustering time as a function of both particle density and active driving force. Notably, the average number of clusters N ̅ assembled from active particles in the simulation system exhibits a scaling relationship with clustering time t described by N ̅∝t^(-m). Simultaneously, the scaling behavior of the average cluster size S ̅ is characterized by S ̅∝t^m. Our findings reveals the presence of up to four distinct dynamic regions concerning clustering over time, with transitions contingent upon the particle density within the system. Furthermore, as the active driving force increases, the aggregation behavior also accelerates, while an increase in density of active particles induce alterations in the dynamic procession of the system.
A Receptor Integrin β1 Promotes Infection of Avian Metapneumovirus Subgroup C by Recognizing Viral Fusion Protein RSD Motif
Authors: Cui Yongqiu , Li Siting , Xu Weiyin , Li Yeqiu , Xie Jiali , Wang Dedong , Guo Jinshuo , Zhou Jianwei , Feng Xufei , Hou Lei , LIU JUE
Published: December 2023

Avian metapneumovirus subgroup C (aMPV/C) causes respiratory diseases and egg dropping in chickens and turkeys, resulting in severe economic losses to the poultry industry worldwide. Integrin β1 (ITGB1), a transmembrane cell adhesion molecule, is present in various cells and mediates numerous viral infections. Herein, we demonstrate that ITGB1 is essential for aMPV/C infection in cultured DF-1 cells, as evidenced by the inhibition of viral binding by EDTA blockade, Arg-Ser-Asp (RSD) peptide, monoclonal antibody against ITGB1, and ITGB1 short interfering (si) RNA knockdown in cultured DF-1 cells. Simulation of the binding process between the aMPV/C fusion (F) protein and avian-derived ITGB1 using molecular dynamics showed that ITGB1 may be a host-factor for benefiting aMPV/C attachment or internalization. Transient expression of avian ITGB1 rendered porcine and feline non-permissive cells (DQ cells and CRFK cells, respectively) susceptible to aMPV/C infection. Replication kinetic of aMPV/C in siRNA-knockdown cells revealed that ITGB1 plays an important role in aMPV/C infection at the early stage (attachment and internalization). aMPV/C was also able to infect efficiently human non-small cell lung cancer (A549) cells. This may be due to a consequence of the similar structures of both metapneumovirus F protein-specific motifs (RSD for aMPV/C and RGD for human metapneumovirus) recognized by ITGB1. Overexpression of avian-derived ITGB1 and human-derived ITGB1 in A549 cells enhanced aMPV/C infectivity. Taken together, this study demonstrated that ITGB1 acts as an essential receptor for aMPV/C attachment and internalization into host cells in which facilitates aMPV/C infection.
Understanding Van der Knaap’s Disease: A Case Report on Megalencephalic Leukoencephalopathy
Authors: Gami Vismit , Teraiya Tushar , Shah Sahil , Desai Dev
Published: December 2023

Presenting a case report about a 14-year-old female patient presenting with a history of weakness in all four limbs since the age of 5. The patient has a history of difficulty in walking, wearing footwear, climbing stairs, and performing fine motor tasks. During the neurological examination showed mild spasticity, muscle weakness, areflexia, ill-sustained clonus, and sensory deficits. Radiological examination, including a contrast-enhanced MRI of the brain was done which showed findings that are consistent with Megalencephalic leukoencephalopathy with subcortical cysts, also known as Van der Knaap disease.
Design of Photonic-Molecule-Based Multiway Beam Splitter/Coupler with Variable Division Ratio
Authors: Geints Yury E.
Published: December 2023

Optical beam splitter is used for dividing an input optical beam into several separate beams with specific power ratio. Usually, conventional beam splitters have bulky dimensions and fixed dividing ratio which significantly limit the design of new miniaturized optical devices and integrated optical circuits. We propose and investigate a novel physical concept of a miniaturized planar optical splitter/coupler with a switching element in the form of a photonic molecule (PM) pair dispersing input optical fluxes along multiple ways with variable power proportions. The structural design of the proposed splitter is based on a silicon-on-insulator (SOI) platform and composed of high-quality resonators in the form of electromagnetically coupled submicron-sized microcylinders. The control on the power division ratio and the selection of optical beam directions is realized by tuning the photonic splitter structure to the corresponding resonance of PM supermode. Compared to known analogues, the proposed design is easy to fabricate, suitable for integration into a "System-on-a-chip" platform and can dynamically change the beam power division ratio by input wave-phase manipulation.
Recycled Brewer’s Spent Grains (BSG) and Grape Juice: A New Tool for Non-alcoholic (NAB) or Low Alcoholic (LAB) Craft Beer Using Non-conventional Yeasts
Authors: Canonico Laura , Agarbati Alice , Comitini Francesca , Ciani Maurizio
Published: December 2023

Non-alcoholic beer (NAB) or low alcoholic beer (LAB) are taking over the market with a growing sale. Sus-tainable recycling and valorization of exhausted brewer’s spent grains (BSG) coming from craft beer is a relevant issue in brewing process. In this work, recycled BSG and BSG+GJ (supplemented with 10% grape juice) were used as wort-substrate to inoculate already selected non-conventional yeasts to produce NABLAB craft beer. Results showed that wort composed by only recycled BSG produced appreciate NAB beers (ethanol from 0.12% to 0.54 % v/v) while the addition of 10% of grape juice made LAB beers (ethanol from 0.82 to 1.66 % v/v). As expected, volatile compounds production was highest with the addition of grape juice. Lachancea thermotolerans confirmed the lactic acid production and, as Saccharomyces cerevisiae, is characterized by (in both worts) ethyl butyrate and isoamyl acetate, while Torulaspora delbrueckii produced relevant amounts of exanol, phenylethyl acetate and β-phenyl ethanol (wort added with grape juice). Wickeramhomyces anomalus and Pichia kluyvery showed consistent volatile production but only in wort with grape juice addition where a fermentation activity was exhibited. The overall results indicated that reused BSGs, non-conventional yeasts and grape juice is a suitable strategy for specialty NABLAB beer.
The Impact of ESG Rating on Hedging Downside Risks: Evidence from a Weight-Tilted Hang Seng Index
Authors: Fung Joseph K.W. , Lam F.Y. Eric C. , Tse Yiuman
Published: December 2023

The study examines the return performance and resilience to market volatility of the recently introduced Environment, Social/Sustainable, and Governance (ESG) weight-tilted Hang Seng Index (HSIESG) compared to its parent, the Hang Seng Index (HSI). The ESG-infused index has a higher mean return and lower return volatility than the parent index, although the differences are statistically and economically insignificant, a result consistent with the high correlation between the two index returns. Most important, the ESG weighted-tilted index is more resilient to volatility spikes than the parent index and therefore has lower downside risks. The overall results show that stocks with high ESG ratings are less susceptible to trading pressures triggered by volatility-induced turnovers. The paper contributes to the literature by providing significant incremental information on the emerging market for ESG-related equity products in Hong Kong.
Entropy of the Canonical Occupancy (Macro) State in the
Quantum Measurement Theory
Authors: Spalvieri Arnaldo
Published: December 2023

The paper analyzes the probability distribution of the occupancy
numbers and the entropy of a system at the equilibrium composed by
an arbitrary number of non-interacting bosons. The probability
distribution is derived both by tracing out the environment from a
bosonic eigenstate of the union of environment and system of
interest (the empirical approach) and by tracing out the
environment from the mixed state of the union of environment and
system of interest (the Bayesian approach). In the thermodynamic
limit, the two coincide and are equal to the multinomial
distribution. Furthermore, the paper proposes to identify the
physical entropy of the bosonic system with the Shannon entropy of
the occupancy numbers, fixing certain contradictions that arise in
the classical analysis of thermodynamic entropy. Finally, by
leveraging an information-theoretic inequality between the entropy
of the multinomial distribution and the entropy of the
multivariate hypergeometric distribution, Bayesianism of
information theory and empiricism of statistical mechanics are
integrated into a common ''infomechanical'' framework.