bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determination of Electrolytes and Trace Elements in Biological Samples from Patients with Altered Semen Parameters: a Correlational Analysis
Authors: Unar Ahsanullah , Afridi Hassan Imran , Ali Asim , Ali Naveed , Qureshi Taiyaba
Published: June 2024

The effects of important nutrients such as calcium (Ca), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), magnesium (Mg), selenium (Se), and zinc (Zn) have been investigated in relation to male fertility due to their roles in proper spermatogenesis, sperm maturation, motility, and optimal sperm function. An imbalance between these elements has been associated with several pathologic conditions and male reproductive issues. The purpose of this study was to determine the essential trace and electrolytes elements, such as Ca, Cu, Fe, Mg, Se, and Zn, in human biological samples (blood, serum, and semen) from patients with male infertility. This study used correlational analysis to determine the potential associations between these elements and male fertility. Imbalances in these elements have been linked to various pathological conditions and male reproductive issues. One hundred eighty referent male adults and two hundred twenty-nine patients diagnosed with subtypes of infertility were included in the study, divided into two age groups. Acid digestion was controlled using a microwave oven, and the essential trace elements and electrolytes in the oxidized biological samples were determined using atomic absorption spectrometry. Certified reference materials of blood and serum were used to validate the accuracy of the methodology. The results showed that the concentrations of Ca, Cu, Fe, Mg, Se, and Zn in the blood, serum, and seminal plasma of male adults in all age groups were higher than those in patients with different infertility phenotypes. Essential element deficiency in all biological fluid samples may significantly negatively affect human reproductive health and lead to male infertility. Through a multidimensional approach, our study sought to unravel the intricate biochemical signatures associated with OAT, providing insights that may shape the landscape of diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for male reproductive health.
Culturing Conditions Dictate the Composition and Pathways Enrichment of Human and Rat Perirenal Adipose-Derived Stromal Cells’ Secretomes
Authors: Pinheiro-Machado Erika , Faas Marijke M. , de Haan Bart J. , Moers Cyril , Smink Alexandra M.
Published: June 2024

Understanding the impact of various culturing strategies on the secretome composition of adipose-derived stromal cells (ASC) enhances their therapeutic potential. This study investigated changes in the secretome of perirenal ASC (prASC) under different conditions: normoxia, cytokine exposure, high glucose, hypoxia, and hypoxia with high glucose. Using mass spectrometry and enrichment clustering analysis, we found that normoxia enriched pathways related to extracellular matrix (ECM) organization, platelet degranulation, and insulin-like growth factor (IGF) transport and uptake. Cytokine exposure influenced metabolism, vascular development, and protein processing pathways. High glucose affected the immune system, metabolic processes, and IGF transport and uptake. Hypoxia impacted immune and metabolic processes and protein processing. Combined hypoxia and high glucose influenced the immune system, IGF transport and uptake, and ECM organization. Our findings highlight the potential of manipulating culturing conditions to produce secretomes with distinct protein and functional profiles, tailoring therapeutic strategies accordingly.

Graphical Abstract
Resilient enhancements of routing protocols in MANET
Authors: Baumgartner Maros , Papaj Jan , Kurkina Natalia , Dobos Lubomir , Cizmar Anton
Published: June 2024

Resilient of routing processes is one of the biggest challenges for data transmission in mobile networks without infrastructure. Communication under current routing protocols is through a communication path that, although the shortest, may not perform satisfactorily in terms of resilient. Routing and communication within such a path may take place using nodes that are malicious or inappropriate in the communication process due to malicious or poor technical state. This paper presents a new algorithm for various uses of mobile ad hoc networks not only in edge networks with infrastructure but also with the possibility of being used in the cloud solutions. We have modified decentralized blockchain technology and artificial intelligence using deep learning methods that have been implemented in routing processes. The objective of this algorithm was to select the most resilient communication path from the source to the destination node. Such a communication path selection consisted of selecting the nodes that were most suitable in terms of resilience, where the selection nodes was provided through a network and technical parameters. The key quality of service metrics, throughput, total delay, number of delivered signaling and data packets and the ratio between them were used to evaluate the proposed resilient routing algorithm. Modified resilient routing protocols achieved improvement in all the analyzed parameters compared to the original routing protocols. The improvement in these parameters led to an increase in the resilience of the routing process based on the actual data obtained from each node in the network and previous communications.
Discrimination and Civic Engagement of Immigrants in Western Societies. A Systematic Scoping Review
Authors: Müssig Stephanie , Okrug Inken
Published: June 2024

Research has highlighted the barriers that immigrants face due to discrimination in their everyday lives. At the same time, it has been shown that immigrants get civically engaged to counteract discrimination and to work for structural change. To contribute to ongoing research on how discrimination affects attitudes, behaviour, and eventually life opportunities of immigrants, we investigate in a scoping review conceptualisations and measurements of discrimination and civic engagement used in empirical quantitative studies. We take systematic stock of publications that examine the link between discrimination—perceived and experienced—and the civic engagement of immigrants in Western societies. Using three of the leading databases for the social sciences, we systematically search for literature on discrimination and civic engagement over the past 50 years. On the basis of the retrieved publications, we assess how studies conceptualise and measure discrimination and civic engagement and investigate how scholars represent the link between discrimination and civic engagement in their statistical models. We introduce an analytical framework for discrimination that leads to more analytical clarity and may serve as a tool to investigate the link between discrimination and civic engagement more precisely. From our review, we derive recommendations as to how studies from different disciplines can learn and benefit from each other in order to gather knowledge on the mechanisms that underlie the link between discrimination and civic engagement.
Child Maltreatment Profiles among Children and Adolescents in the Spanish Child Welfare System
Authors: Fernández Irene , Malonda-Vidal Elisabeth , Navarro-Pérez José J. , Llorca Anna
Published: June 2024

Maltreatment is a complex and multidimensional construct. Several types of maltreatment exist, but not all of them necessarily co-occur. In the last decades, researchers have tried to untangle the heterogeneity of maltreatment. However, few studies have been carried out outside the U. S. and none of the previous studies had considered all stages of maltreatment. In this study, we aimed at exploring latent profiles of maltreatment in a sample of 635 children and adolescents enrolled at different intervention plans within the Child Protective Services (CPS) in the Valencian Community, Spain. Latent Profile Analysis (LPA) was performed. Profiles were based on the five types of maltreatment (physical abuse, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, emotional neglect and physical neglect), as measured by the Chilhood Trauma Questionnaire-Short Form. Moreover, associations between the emerging profiles and sociodemographic, health- and school-related variables were also examined. Three profiles of maltreatment were found: “Relative low maltreatment” (58.58%), “Neglected” (35.92%), and “Severely abused and neglected” (5.5%). Then, profiles were contrasted with the reasons why court dictated maltreatment status of the child/adolescent to validate the maltreatment profiles. Results regarding the cumulative nature of maltreatment and its severity suggest tailoring public policies by level of risk of maltreatment. This study further proposes moving the focus of action from individuals themselves to the elements that characterize different maltreatment profiles, with the aim of protecting them. Future research ought to expand knowledge on maltreatment profiles in other European countries so as to promote generalization of results.
Developing a trial design to establish BNCT as clinical application: insight for the national italian center for oncological hadrontherapy (CNAO)
Authors: Licitra Lisa , Cavalieri Stefano , Tinelli Carmine , Franzetti Jessica , Orlandi Ester
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) represents an advanced radiation therapy capable of selectively killing tumor cells. It operates on a dual therapy approach, utilizing boronated agents that preferentially deliver boron-10 to tumors, followed by neutron irradiation. This leads to the emission of two ionizing particles. These particles expend all their energy over a distance comparable to the diameter of a cell and can cause irreparable damage to DNA when passing through the nucleus.

Methods

This paper outlines the approach taken by the Italian National Cancer Center for Oncological Hadrontherapy (CNAO) to achieve BNCT certification for clinical applications within the EU regulatory framework.

Results

The existing literature reports excellent outcomes for many unresectable and recurrent tumors, especially in head and neck cancer (HNC).

Conclusions

The paper seeks to clarify the rationale and methods for formulating a clinical trial design to meet these objectives.
Breast Cancer Prevention Practices and Knowledge in Italian and Chinese Women in Italy: Clinical Checkups, Free NHS Screening Adherence, and Breast Self-Examination (BSE)
Authors: Conte Luana , Lupo Roberto , Lezzi Alessia , Sciolti Serena , Rubbi Ivan , Carvello Maicol , Calabrò Antonino , Botti Stefano , Fanizzi Annarita , Massafra Raffaella , Vitale Elsa , De Nunzio Giorgio
Published: June 2024

Breast cancer remains a significant global concern, underscoring the critical need for early detection and prevention strategies. Primary and secondary preventive measures, such as routine screenings and behaviors like breast self-examination (BSE), play a crucial role in facilitating early diagnosis. While the National Health System (NHS) in Italy offers free regular screenings for women aged 50–69, there is a lack of clarity regarding the participation of both Italian and Chinese women residing in Italy in these screening programs. This study aims to bridge this knowledge gap by thoroughly assessing the involvement in regular clinical check-ups and the types of screening employed, the adherence to free screenings offered by the NHS, and the practice of BSE among women aged 50–69 of these two groups. Furthermore, it investigates their knowledge and perceptions regarding breast cancer and BSE. Results reveal disparities in breast cancer control practice between Italian and Chinese women in Italy: the former demonstrates higher adherence to clinical checkups (53% vs. 3%, p < 0.001), while both groups show low participation in free NHS screenings (70% vs. 4%, p < 0.001). Additionally, Chinese women reported significantly lower frequency of mammography (96% vs. 33%, p < 0.001) and ultrasound (69% vs. 16%, p < 0.001). The frequency of BSE also differed substantially, with 47% of Chinese women never performing BSE compared to 12% of Italian women (p < 0.001). This comprehensive exploration provides valuable insights, attitudes, and knowledge into the disparities and potential areas for improvement in breast cancer prevention, thus contributing to the overall well-being of these communities. The findings highlight the necessity for educational initiatives aimed at improving awareness and participation in screenings, particularly among the Chinese population. These initiatives could have profound implications for patient education by equipping women with the knowledge and skills necessary to engage in proactive health behaviors.
Bruce–Roberts numbers and quasihomogeneous functions on analytic varieties
Authors: Bivià-Ausina C. , Kourliouros K. , Ruas M. A. S.
Published: June 2024

Given a germ of an analytic variety X and a germ of a holomorphic function f with a stratified isolated singularity with respect to the logarithmic stratification of X, we show that under certain conditions on the singularity type of the pair (f, X), the following relative analog of the well-known K. Saito’s theorem holds true: equality of the relative Milnor and Tjurina numbers of f with respect to X (also known as Bruce–Roberts numbers) is equivalent to the relative quasihomogeneity of the pair (f, X), i.e. to the existence of a coordinate system such that both f and X are quasihomogeneous with respect to the same positive rational weights.
Forecasting Turkey’s Primary Energy Demand Based on Fuzzy Auto-regressive Distributed Lag Models with Symmetric and Non-symmetric Triangular Coefficients
Authors: Eren Miraç , Baets Bernard De
Published: June 2024

This study aims to guide policymakers in allocating resources and planning for the future by consistently estimating energy data trends. Because of the complexity and uncertainty of energy demand behavior and many influencing factors, we decide to take advantage of a fuzzy regression model to determine the actual relationships in the energy demand system and provide an accurate forecast of energy demand. For this purpose, because of energy demand drivers, fuzzy possibilistic approaches with symmetric and non-symmetric triangular coefficients are integrated with the autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) model, each in a time-series format with feedback mechanisms inside. After regularizing the L1 (Lasso regression) and L2 (ridge regression) metrics to minimize the overfitting problem, the optimal fuzzy-ARDL model is obtained. Turkey’s primary energy consumption is projected based on the best model by benchmarking the static and dynamic possibilistic fuzzy regression models according to their training and test values.
NdFeB Magnets Recycling via High-Pressure Selective Leaching and the Impurities Behaviors
Authors: Yan Zhiming , Li Zushu , Yang Mingrui , Lv Wei , Sattar Anwar
Published: June 2024

Global concerns about climate change are driving increased demand of electric vehicles for sustainable transportation and turbines in emerging energy solutions, where permanent magnets (PMs) and rare earth elements (REEs) play a critical role. However, global REEs recycling rates are only 3% and 8% for light and heavy REEs, respectively. This work proposes an effective approach to separate the REEs and iron via high-pressure selective leaching by low-concentrated nitric acid from the end-of-life NdFeB magnet and investigates the impurities behavior during the leaching and precipitation steps. The results from the optimized leaching conditions demonstrated over 95% REEs leaching efficiency with less than 0.3% Fe dissolution. Approximately 70% of Al and B were leached as well, while other elements (Co, Ni, Cu) had leaching efficiencies below 40%, leaving a hematite rich residue. Adjusting the pH removes Al and Fe in leachate but minimally affects Cu, Co, and Ni. Na2S addition is more effective against transition metals, but both methods result in around 10% REEs loss. Direct oxalate precipitation is suggested for the obtained leachate, which can yield over 97.5% REEs oxides with approximately 1.0% alumina, which is acceptable for magnet remanufacturing due to the aluminum content commonly found in magnets. The technology developed in this study offers opportunities for closed-loop recycling and remanufacturing of PMs, benefiting the environment, economy, and supply chain security.

Graphical Abstract
The Ramsey Numbers for Trees of Large Maximum Degree Versus the Wheel Graph $$W_8$$
Authors: Chng Zhi Yee , Britz Thomas , Tan Ta Sheng , Wong Kok Bin
Published: June 2024

The Ramsey numbers $$R(T_n,W_8)$$

R
(

T
n

,

W
8

)

are determined for each tree graph $$T_n$$

T
n

of order $$n\ge 7$$

n
≥
7

and maximum degree $$\Delta (T_n)$$

Δ
(

T
n

)

equal to either $$n-4$$

n
-
4

or $$n-5$$

n
-
5

. These numbers indicate strong support for the conjecture, due to Chen, Zhang and Zhang and to Hafidh and Baskoro, that $$R(T_n,W_m) = 2n-1$$

R
(

T
n

,

W
m

)
=
2
n
-
1

for each tree graph $$T_n$$

T
n

of order $$n\ge m-1$$

n
≥
m
-
1

with $$\Delta (T_n)\le n-m+2$$

Δ
(

T
n

)
≤
n
-
m
+
2

when $$m\ge 4$$

m
≥
4

is even.
A Review of Simulation Modeling of the State Evaluation and Process Prediction of Plasma Processing under Atmospheric Pressure
Authors: Wei Xinyang , Mitchell Alasdair , Sun Rongyan , Yu Nan , Yamamura Kazuya
Published: June 2024

In recent decades, interest in simulation modeling of plasma processing under atmospheric pressure has been growing because of its appealing advantages across various domains. These advantages encompass the provision of diverse data types for evaluating processing states, the capability to predict processing outcomes from current operating conditions, and cost-effectiveness in comparison to experimental methods. This paper endeavors to offer a concise review of the evolution of simulation modeling of atmospheric plasma processing. This review encompasses foundational concepts and methodologies of plasma generation modeling of both thermal and nonthermal plasmas, progressing to discuss the framework and challenges of plasma processing modeling. In addition, a brief overview of contemporary challenges in modeling, such as simplifying complex physics, designing computational domains, and optimizing the balance between computational precision and cost, is provided to foster the advancement of atmospheric plasma processing modeling.
Motivational processes: can perceptions of fairness augment effects of favourable autonomy supportive practices on satisfaction of the basic psychological needs?
Authors: Chatzisarantis Nikos L. D. , Kamarova Sviatlana , Ahmadi Malek , Ada Elif Nilay , Papaioannou Athanasios
Published: June 2024

Based on Self-Determination theory and social interaction models of social justice, in this article we examined whether perceptions of fairness catalysed the positive effects autonomy support on motivational and well-being outcomes. The study was conducted in the context of an all-boys school with 302 students, adopting a prospective design. Using surface analysis to estimate the dependent variables to be tested in non-liner regressions, the current research empirically extends social interaction models of distributive justice by testing, for the first time, whether perceptions of fairness can moderate the effects of autonomy supportive practices on satisfaction of psychological needs. The results demonstrated that perceptions of fairness engendered positive effects of favourable forms of autonomy support on satisfaction of the psychological need for competence. No analogous positive effects on other outcomes were found. Therefore, the perceptions of fairness constitute an important component of autonomy-supportive class climates that catalyse positive effects of favourable forms of autonomy support on satisfaction of the psychological need for competence. This evidence suggests that students are more likely to experience high levels of competence during physical education classes when they perceive that their favourable treatment is fair, though the effect does not generalise to autonomous motivation or subjective well-being.
Exploring the Use of Resume Reviews to Understand Skill Sets Valued in Biomedical Engineers by Employers
Authors: Wang Annie AnMeng , Jamison Cassandra Sue Ellen
Published: June 2024

The breadth of opportunities in biomedical engineering (BME) creates both a diversity of career options for students pursuing the degree and a potential hurdle in communicating the relevance of their skills when applying for specific jobs. This conundrum has driven research efforts seeking to understand what is valued by BME employers. Our work explored this area of need through an analysis of researcher-designed resumes (DRs) based on skills potentially of interest to BME recruiters in industry and academia. DRs were distributed to potential employers through an online survey asking about their perspectives on the quality of a subset of four DRs based on their indicated area of expertise. We performed a quantitative and qualitative analysis of 12 industry and 6 academic responses and compared our results to existing BME resume evaluation rubrics. Our results confirm a quantitative alignment between existing BME resume rubrics and employer’s perceptions which was previously unexplored. Qualitative results pointed toward (1) the importance of how experiences are represented as an important differentiator in resume reviews, (2) the acknowledgment from reviewers that resumes are only one step in a job application, and (3) specific similarities and differences in the skills that academic and industry employers look for in BME resumes. Our work provides validity evidence from employer perspectives to support the use of existing resume guidance tools in BME. Our qualitative data analysis expands that guidance by making recommendations for additional tools to craft resumes that clearly communicate the relevant experiences of an applicant.
Listening to teachers talk about multimodality and multimodal texts: considerations for the national English curriculum
Authors: Brosseuk Deb , Downes Lynn
Published: June 2024

Multimodal texts are an integral part of children’s lives. Rapid advancements in media and mobile technologies have increasingly expanded children’s capability to view, share, design, and produce multimodal texts. However, Australia’s updated English curriculum falls short of offering teachers a metalanguage to help children understand the complex ways linguistic, visual, audio, gestural, and spatial modes work together to convey meaning. This article reports qualitative research on teachers talking about multimodal texts within their pedagogy and literacy practice. Data were generated through semi-structured interviews with eight early years and primary Australian teachers. Fairclough’s Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) is the analytic framework utilised in the research. From teachers’ talk, findings show that if children are to be effective multimodal text users, analysts, designers, and creators, the curriculum should not privilege particular modes and their associated metalanguage but provide teachers with a metalanguage for all modes of meaning-making.
Assessing the sustainability literacy of undergraduate students in a first-year writing course
Authors: Erguvan Inan Deniz
Published: June 2024

With sustainability becoming a familiar concept in society, higher education institutions have also started playing a more active role in this field, showing an increasing interest in students’ comprehension of sustainability. This interest has led to the need for developing methods of assessing students’ sustainability knowledge, as observed in many scholars’ and institutions’ research efforts. To this end, this study aims to evaluate the sustainability literacy levels of students enrolled in a first-year composition course using a mixed-method sequential explanatory design. The quantitative phase involved 221 students who completed a questionnaire assessing their knowledge, skills, attitudes, and familiarity with sustainability concepts and topics. Following this, 60 students were asked to write an essay identifying Kuwait’s significant sustainability challenges and proposing solutions. The results showed that gender, high school type, grade point average (GPA) value, and whether they heard about the term sustainability before caused significant differences in students’ knowledge, skills, and attitudes about sustainability. Also, the students primarily associate sustainability challenges with environmental problems; social and economic challenges are rarely mentioned in essays.
Enhancing growth performance, feed efficiency, and economic feasibility of turkey production through the incorporation of zootech feed fortifier in a high-fiber turkey diet
Authors: Anigbogu Nnamdi Mbanefo , Agida Christopher Agboje , Okechukwu Godswill C. , Ihugba E. Uchechi , Aroh Izuchukwu Martin
Published: June 2024

This study evaluated the impact of incorporating Zootech feed fortifier mix into a graded ration of sawdust and palm kernel cake (PKC); a high fibre diet, on the growth performance, carcass, organoleptic, and bio-economics of turkey birds. This eight-week feeding trial involved 320 unsexed indigenous strains of turkey poults brooded in deep litter and assigned to four dietary treatments (T1, T2, T3, and T4). The experimental design involved four treatments with four replicates, with a total of twenty birds per replicate. The treatment diets/groups were as follows: T1 (farmer’s practice turkey diet/standard turkey feed), T2 (5% sawdust/18% PKC), T3 (10% sawdust/13% PKC), and T4 (15% sawdust/8% PKC). It was revealed from this study that turkeys fed T4 diets exhibited significantly higher differences (p < 0.01) in final weight gain and average daily weight gain compared to other treatments. At the same time, T1 (control) had the lowest weight gain. Average daily feed intake had a significantly higher difference (p < 0.01) in turkeys fed T4 diets, with the lowest intake in the control group. Turkeys fed T4 and control diets achieved the best feed conversion ratio, while T2 and T3 groups were less efficient. Carcass traits and internal organ proportions were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in turkeys fed T4 diets. The organoleptic assessment indicated superior meat quality (p < 0.05) in treatment four  groups . Economic analysis revealed significantly lower costs per kilogram of feed and total feed consumed in T2, T3, and T4 groups  compared to the control (p < 0.05) groups. In summary, incorporating a Zootech feed fortifier into a sawdust/palm kernel diet positively influenced turkey growth, feed efficiency, carcass traits, tastes, and economic viability.
Fachdidaktische Herausforderungen der Identifikation mathematischer Begabung bei hörgeschädigten Lernenden
Authors: Beumann Sarah , Weber Dirk
Published: June 2024

Zusammenfassung: Hintergrund: Für die Identifikation von mathematisch begabten Lernenden haben sich ganzheitliche Zugänge etabliert, die sowohl standardisierte als auch nicht-standardisierte Diagnoseverfahren einschließen. Vor dem Hintergrund individueller Beeinträchtigungen ist offen, inwieweit fachdidaktische Zugänge geeignet sind, das mathematische Potenzial hörgeschädigter Lernender zu erfassen. Methoden: Im Rahmen einer explorativen Fallstudie wird mithilfe verschiedener Verfahren und Instrumente das individuelle Begabungsprofil des hörgeschädigten Schülers Niklas (13 Jahre) gekennzeichnet. Ergebnisse: Der Fall illustriert, dass die Identifikation einer mathematischen Begabung bei hörgeschädigten Lernenden auf Basis verschiedener fachdidaktischer Diagnoseverfahren möglich ist. Diskussion: Nicht-standardisierte Diagnoseverfahren besitzen gegenüber standardisierten Instrumenten Vorzüge beim Erkennen und Erfassen mathematischer Potenziale von hörgeschädigten Lernenden.
Explicitly Resolving Lightning and Electrification Processes From the 10–12 April 2019 Thundersnow Outbreak
Authors: Harkema Sebastian S. , Mansell Edward R. , Fierro Alexandre O. , Carey Lawrence D. , Schultz Christopher J. , Matsui Toshi , Berndt Emily B.
Published: June 2024

The 10–12 April 2019 thundersnow (i.e., lightning within snowfall) outbreak was examined via ground‐ and space‐based lightning observations and was simulated using a numerical weather prediction model with an explicit electrification parameterization. When compared to observations, the simulation propagated the synoptic snowband two to six hours faster while also exaggerating the 3‐D reflectivity structure. Throughout the event, the simulation produced 1,733 thundersnow flashes which was less than what was observed by ground‐ and space‐based lightning sensors. In general, simulated thundersnow flashes were spatially offset from the largest reflectivities within the synoptic snowband and tended to occur within elevated convection that traversed isentropically along the top of mid‐level frontogenesis. These simulated thundersnow flashes were associated with a tripole charge structure with ice/snow hydrometeors contributing most to the main negative charge region. Both simulated and observed thundersnow flashes initiated in conditionally unstable environments. Lastly, a conceptual model was developed to explain the spatial separation between the largest reflectivities in the snowband and the occurrence of thundersnow. It is hypothesized that the spatial offset of thundersnow initiation from the reflectivity cores within the synoptic snowband arose from a thermal circulation—induced by mid‐level frontogenesis—that advects positively charged ice/snow hydrometeors toward the surface and creates a nearly homogeneous vertical charge structure.
A Runoff‐On‐Grid Approach to Embed Hydrological Processes in Shallow Water Models
Authors: Perrini Pasquale , Cea Luis , Chiaravalloti Francesco , Gabriele Salvatore , Manfreda Salvatore , Fiorentino Mauro , Gioia Andrea , Iacobellis Vito
Published: June 2024

Catchment‐scale hydrological models encountered dichotomies with the numerical hydrodynamic models when describing surface routing process. We propose a new modeling framework, the so‐called “Runoff‐On‐Grid” approach, for embedding distributed process‐based hydrological modeling into shallow water models, as an alternative to the traditional Fully Hydrodynamic Approach (also known as Rain‐On‐Grid). Antecedent Soil Moisture, subsurface dynamics, and other topsoil hydrological processes are implicitly integrated in the governing hydrodynamic equations via the proposed methodology. The resulting hydrological‐hydrodynamic coupling, based on the DREAM distributed hydrological model and the Iber+ shallow water model, enhances the capabilities of both reference models. Through introducing non‐negligible runoff generation sources, the Runoff‐On‐Grid approach extends the surface hydrodynamic modeling to medium‐sized vegetated and/or (semi)humid catchments, bypassing the limitations of the widespread hydrological losses' empirical formulations. Employed in an event‐based analysis within a High‐Performance Computing framework, the DREAM‐Iber model provides an efficient and reliable reconstruction of the November 2020 flood that occurred in Crotone (Italy), envisaging consequences of similar future scenarios. We show that the proposed modeling technique, nested within emerging environmental technologies and robust on‐site data, details the flood hazard inducing processes merging physical hydrology with advanced hydrodynamics.
Modeling Upscaled Mass Discharge From Complex DNAPL Source Zones Using a Bayesian Neural Network: Prediction Accuracy, Uncertainty Quantification and Source Zone Feature Importance
Authors: Kang Xueyuan , Kokkinaki Amalia , Shi Xiaoqing , Lee Jonghyun , Guo Zhilin , Ni Lingling , Wu Jichun
Published: June 2024

The mass discharge emanating from dense non‐aqueous phase liquid (DNAPL) source zones (SZs) is often used as a key metric for risk assessment. To predict the temporal evolution of mass discharge, upscaled models have been developed to approximate the relationship between the depletion of SZ and the mass discharge. A significant challenge stems from the choice of the SZ parameterization, so that a limited number of domain‐averaged SZ metrics can suffice as an input and accurately predict the complex mass‐discharge behavior. Moreover, existing deterministic upscaled models cannot quantify prediction uncertainty stemming from modeling parameterization. To address these challenges, we propose a method based on a Bayesian Neural Network (BNN) which learns the non‐linear relationship between SZ metrics and mass discharge from multiphase‐modeling training data. The proposed BNN‐based upscaled model allows uncertainty quantification since it treats trainable parameters as distributions, and does not require a manual parameterization of the SZ a‐priori. Instead, the BNN model chooses three physically meaningful SZ quantities related to mass discharge as input features. Then, we use the expected gradients method to identify the feature importance for mass‐discharge prediction. We evaluated the proposed model on laboratory‐scale DNAPL dissolution experiments. The results show that the BNN model accurately reproduces the multistage mass‐discharge profiles with fewer parameters than existing upscaled models. Feature importance analysis shows that all chosen features are important and sufficient to reproduce complex mass discharge. This model provides accurate mass‐discharge predictions and uncertainty estimation, therefore holds a great potential for probabilistic risk assessments and decision‐making.
Tracing Sediment‐Affected Water Masses From Coastal Areas to Offshore Oceans Using In Situ Sensing of Fluorescent Organic Matter
Authors: Yamashita Youhei , Takekuma Toshiyuki , Tajiri Makoto , Oida Joji , Kakehi Shigeho , Ooki Atsushi , Hirawake Toru
Published: June 2024

The lateral transport of nutrient‐rich water masses from coastal areas to offshore areas is an important factor controlling the primary production of phytoplankton in offshore regions. If the coastal low‐salinity waters have high nutrient levels, lateral transport can be traced via salinity observations. However, if high level of nutrients in the waters are not coupled with low salinity, for example, input from coastal sediments, water transport cannot be traced via salinity observations. In this study, visible fluorescent organic matter (FOMvis) was monitored by an in situ sensor as a tracer for sediment‐affected water masses from coastal areas. The FOMvis distribution in the upper 500 m water layer in offshore Japan along the 143°E transect was generally controlled by the distributions of subtropical water (i.e., Kuroshio water and Tsugaru warm current water) and subarctic water (i.e., Oyashio water). However, anomalously high levels of FOMvis were observed at depths of 20–60 m at an observational station, which could not be explained by physical mixing. This likely originated from the lateral transport of water masses from coastal areas. In and around Sendai Bay, where observations were carried out as an example of the Japanese coast, high levels of FOMvis were observed, accompanied by negative N*, an indicator of denitrification, and phosphate and silicic acid inputs from anoxic sediments. These observational results imply that FOMvis observation via in situ sensors can be useful for tracing the input of nutrient‐rich sediment‐affected water masses from coastal areas to offshore oceans.
Improvements of the Microwave Gaseous Absorption Scheme Based on Statistical Regression and Its Application to ARMS
Authors: Kan Wanlin , Shi Yi‐Ning , Yang Jun , Han Yang , Hu Hao , Weng Fuzhong
Published: June 2024

An improved microwave gaseous absorption scheme based on statistical regression is proposed in this study. In the new scheme, Monochromatic Radiative Transfer Model (MonoRTM) replaces the Millimeter‐wave Propagation Model (MPM) to train the new scheme and the effect of real Spectral Response Functions is included in the training process. After the replacement, results of the new scheme are closer to observations from Advanced Technology Microwave Sounder (ATMS) onboard Suomi National Polar‐orbiting Partnership satellite in low level channels while MPM has some advantages in upper level channels. Introducing ozone absorption can cause a systematic bias but results in small standard deviations in channels with frequency 183 ± 1.8 GHz and 183 ± 1 GHz. In addition, the new scheme updates the vertical interpolation of water vapor and optimizes the vertical distribution of Planck function. These updates can reduce biases caused by vertical interpolation, especially for water vapor absorption channels. The bias associated to vertical interpolation can reach 0.25 K whereas the new scheme can decrease it to 0.003 K. To further validate the accuracy of the new scheme, we apply the new scheme to Advanced Radiative transfer Modeling System and compare simulated results to RTTOV 13.2 under 37 and 137 level (L) atmosphere (atm). Observations from ATMS onboard NOAA‐20 are used as true values. Results show that the new scheme agrees with RTTOV 13.2 well in accuracy and performs even better in upper level channels and water vapor absorption channels.
Deep Learning Improves GFS Sea Surface Wind Field Forecast Accuracy in the Northwest Pacific Ocean
Authors: Fu Shu , Huang Wenyu , Luo Jingjia , Liu Dongqing , Sun Danyi , Fu Haohuan , Luo Yong , Wang Bin
Published: June 2024

Sea surface winds influence shipping, fisheries, and coastal projects. However, the current sea surface wind forecast exhibits noticeable biases. This study introduces a deep learning (DL)‐based bias correction model, WindNet, to improve the Global Forecast System (GFS) sea surface wind field forecast in the Northwest Pacific Ocean (NWPO). WindNet reduces the Root Mean Squared Errors (RMSEs) of wind speed at lead times of 24, 48, and 72 hr from 1.41–1.95 to 1.11–1.55 m s−1, achieving percentage reductions of 20.51%–21.28%. Simultaneously, the RMSEs of wind direction are reduced from 29.67–41.45° to 25.38–36.81°, demonstrating percentage reductions of 11.19%–14.46%. During typhoon passages, the RMSEs of wind speed and direction at three forecast lead times after using WindNet are reduced from 1.57–2.42 to 1.24–1.95 m s−1 and from 30.31–42.35° to 25.88–37.64°, demonstrating percentage reductions of 19.42%–21.02% and 11.12%–14.62%. By integrating a Squeeze‐and‐Excitation Network into WindNet, we find that utilizing information from the circulation field, apart from the zonal and meridional wind components at 10 m height, is crucial for the correction of the sea surface wind speed. WindNet can effectively capture the non‐linear relationship between other low‐level‐circulation‐related variables and sea surface wind speed. Therefore, WindNet remarkably enhances sea surface wind field forecast accuracy in NWPO.
Impact of baseline adipose tissue characteristics on change in adipose tissue volume during a low calorie diet in people with obesity—results from the LION study
Authors: Junker Daniela , Wu Mingming , Reik Anna , Raspe Johannes , Rupp Selina , Han Jessie , Näbauer Stella M. , Wiechert Meike , Somasundaram Arun , Burian Egon , Waschulzik Birgit , Makowski Marcus R. , Hauner Hans , Holzapfel Christina , Karampinos Dimitrios C.
Published: June 2024

Background/Objectives

Weight loss outcomes vary individually. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-based evaluation of adipose tissue (AT) might help to identify AT characteristics that predict AT loss. This study aimed to assess the impact of an 8-week low-calorie diet (LCD) on different AT depots and to identify predictors of short-term AT loss using MRI in adults with obesity.

Methods

Eighty-one adults with obesity (mean BMI 34.08 ± 2.75 kg/m², mean age 46.3 ± 10.97 years, 49 females) prospectively underwent baseline MRI (liver dome to femoral head) and anthropometric measurements (BMI, waist-to-hip-ratio, body fat), followed by a post-LCD-examination. Visceral and subcutaneous AT (VAT and SAT) volumes and AT fat fraction were extracted from the MRI data. Apparent lipid volumes based on MRI were calculated as approximation for the lipid contained in the AT. SAT and VAT volumes were subdivided into equidistant thirds along the craniocaudal axis and normalized by length of the segmentation. T-tests compared baseline and follow-up measurements and sex differences. Effect sizes on subdivided AT volumes were compared. Spearman Rank correlation explored associations between baseline parameters and AT loss. Multiple regression analysis identified baseline predictors for AT loss.

Results

Following the LCD, participants exhibited significant weight loss (11.61 ± 3.07 kg, p < 0.01) and reductions in all MRI-based AT parameters (p < 0.01). Absolute SAT loss exceeded VAT loss, while relative apparent lipid loss was higher in VAT (both p < 0.01). The lower abdominopelvic third showed the most significant SAT and VAT reduction. The predictor of most AT and apparent lipid losses was the normalized baseline SAT volume in the lower abdominopelvic third, with smaller volumes favoring greater AT loss (p < 0.01 for SAT and VAT loss and SAT apparent lipid volume loss).

Conclusions

The LCD primarily reduces lower abdominopelvic SAT and VAT. Furthermore, lower abdominopelvic SAT volume was detected as a potential predictor for short-term AT loss in persons with obesity.
Discrimination and hypertension among a diverse sample of racial and sexual minority men living with HIV: baseline findings of a longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Gillespie Avrum , Song Rui , Barile John P. , Okada Lorie , Brown Shari , Traub Kerry , Trout Julia , Simoncini Gina M. , Hall Casey D. Xavier , Tan Yin , Gadegbeku Crystal A. , Ma Grace X. , Wong Frank Y.
Published: June 2024

Racial and sexual orientation discrimination may exacerbate the double epidemic of hypertension (HTN) and HIV that affects men of color who have sex with men (MSM). This was a cross-sectional analysis of African American, Asian American, Native Hawaiian, or Pacific Islander (NHPI) MSM living with HIV (PLWH) cohort in Honolulu and Philadelphia. Racial and sexual orientation discrimination, stress, anxiety, and depression were measured with computer-assisted self-interview questionnaires (CASI). We examined the associations between racial and sexual orientation discrimination with hypertension measured both in the office and by 24-h ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) using multivariable logistic regression. Sixty participants (60% African American, 18% Asian, and 22% NHPI) completed CASIs and 24-h ABPM. African American participants (80%) reported a higher rate of daily racial discrimination than Asian American (36%) and NHPI participants (17%, p < 0.001). Many participants (51%) reported daily sexual orientation discrimination. Sixty-six percent of participants had HTN by office measurement and 59% had HTN by 24-h ABPM measurement. Participants who experienced racial discrimination had greater odds of having office-measured HTN than those who did not, even after adjustment (Odds Ratio 5.0 (95% Confidence Interval [1.2–20.8], p = 0.03)). This association was not seen with 24-h ABPM. Hypertension was not associated with sexual orientation discrimination. In this cohort, MSM of color PLWH experience significant amounts of discrimination and HTN. Those who experienced racial discrimination had higher in-office blood pressure. This difference was not observed in 24-h APBM and future research is necessary to examine the long-term cardiovascular effects.
Social context and drug cues modulate inhibitory control in cocaine addiction: involvement of the STN evidenced through functional MRI
Authors: Terenzi Damiano , Simon Nicolas , Gachomba Michael Joe Munyua , de Peretti Jeanne-Laure , Nazarian Bruno , Sein Julien , Anton Jean-Luc , Grandjean Didier , Baunez Christelle , Chaminade Thierry
Published: June 2024

Addictions often develop in a social context, although the influence of social factors did not receive much attention in the neuroscience of addiction. Recent animal studies suggest that peer presence can reduce cocaine intake, an influence potentially mediated, among others, by the subthalamic nucleus (STN). However, there is to date no neurobiological study investigating this mediation in humans. This study investigated the impact of social context and drug cues on brain correlates of inhibitory control in individuals with and without cocaine use disorder (CUD) using functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI). Seventeen CUD participants and 17 healthy controls (HC) performed a novel fMRI “Social” Stop-Signal Task (SSST) in the presence or absence of an observer while being exposed to cocaine-related (vs. neutral) cues eliciting craving in drug users. The results showed that CUD participants, while slower at stopping with neutral cues, recovered control level stopping abilities with cocaine cues, while HC did not show any difference. During inhibition (Stop Correct vs Stop Incorrect), activity in the right STN, right inferior frontal gyrus (IFG), and bilateral orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) varied according to the type of cue. Notably, the presence of an observer reversed this effect in most areas for CUD participants. These findings highlight the impact of social context and drug cues on inhibitory control in CUD and the mediation of these effects by the right STN and bilateral OFC, emphasizing the importance of considering the social context in addiction research. They also comfort the STN as a potential addiction treatment target.
ChatGPT can help guide and empower patients after prostate cancer diagnosis
Authors: Collin Harry , Keogh Kandice , Basto Marnique , Loeb Stacy , Roberts Matthew J.
Published: June 2024

Background/Objectives

Patients often face uncertainty about what they should know after prostate cancer diagnosis. Web-based information is common but is at risk of being of poor quality or readability.

Subjects/Methods

We used ChatGPT, a freely available Artificial intelligence (AI) platform, to generate enquiries about prostate cancer that a newly diagnosed patient might ask and compared to Google search trends. Then, we evaluated ChatGPT responses to these questions for clinical appropriateness and quality using standardised tools.

Results

ChatGPT generates broad and representative questions, and provides understandable, clinically sound advice.

Conclusions

AI can guide and empower patients after prostate cancer diagnosis through education. However, the limitations of the ChatGPT language-model must not be ignored and require further evaluation and optimisation in the healthcare field.