bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of comparative efficacy of Celastrus paniculatus (Jyotishmati) capsule versus sertraline capsule in the management of Chittodvega (generalized anxiety disorder): protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Gamne Reeya , Misar Sadhana , Rai Mayank
Published: October 2024

Background Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) (Chittodvega) is one among many types of mental disorders explained in Ayurveda. It can be defined as a Chitta (mind) + Udvega (anxiety)= Chittodvega- Anxious status of a mind. Celastrus paniculatus also known as Jyotishmati stimulates and improves the digestive fire and metabolism at a cellular level (Jatharagni and Majja dhatwagni). It can be correlated to GAD. GAD is characterized by feelings of threat, restlessness, irritability, sleep disturbance, and tension, and symptoms such as palpitations, dry mouth, and sweating. It affects women more frequently than men and prevalence rates are high in midlife (prevalence in females over age 35: 10%) and older subjects. In modern medicine the first-line psychological and pharmaceutical treatments are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like sertraline (SNRIs). Aim and objectives To evaluate the comparative efficacy of Jyotishmati versus sertraline in the management of Chittodvega. Methods In this randomized active controlled double blind equivalence trial a total of 70 patients will be enrolled and divided into two equal groups. Patients between 20–50 years age of either gender having symptoms of Chittodvega and a Hamilton anxiety rating (HAM-A) scale score less than 24 (i.e., mild to moderate) will be selected for the study. In Group A, sertraline capsules 25 mg for first 7 days and then dose increased to 50 mg at bedtime for next 53 days and in Group B Jyotishmati Capsules 500 mg will be given twice a day after food with water for 60 days. Result and observation The patients will be assessed on the HAM-A scale, serum cortisol and WHO Quality of Life on day 0, 30, 60 and 90 and data will be analyzed using paired and unpaired t-tests for continuous variables and chi-square tests for categorical variables to evaluate whether treatments are equivalent. Trial registration CTRI No. REF/2023/07/069880 Date – 15/09/2023
Unveiling the Group A Streptococcus Vaccine-Based L-Rhamnose from Backbone of Group A Carbohydrate: Current Insight Against Acute Rheumatic Fever to Reduce the Global Burden of Rheumatic Heart Disease
Authors: Ambari Ade Meidian , Qhabibi Faqrizal Ria , Desandri Dwita Rian , Dwiputra Bambang , Baravia Pirel Aulia , Makes Indira Kalyana , Radi Basuni
Published: October 2024

Group A Streptococcus (GAS) is a widely distributed bacterium that is Gram-positive and serves as the primary cause of acute rheumatic fever (ARF) episodes. Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) is a sequela resulting from repeated ARF attacks which are also caused by repeated GAS infections. ARF/RHD morbidity and mortality rates are incredibly high in low- and middle-income countries. This is closely related to poor levels of sanitation which causes the enhanced incidence of GAS infections. Management of carditis in RHD cases is quite challenging, particularly in developing countries, considering that medical treatment is only palliative, while definitive treatment often requires more invasive procedures with high costs. Preventive action through vaccination against GAS infection is one of the most effective steps as a solution in reducing RHD morbidity and mortality due to curative treatments are expensive. Various developments of M-protein-based GAS vaccines have been carried out over the last few decades and have recently begun to enter the clinical stage. Nevertheless, this vaccination generates cross-reactive antibodies that might trigger ARF assaults as a result of the resemblance between the M-protein structure and proteins found in many human tissues. Consequently, the development of a vaccine utilizing L-Rhamnose derived from the poly-rhamnose backbone of Group A Carbohydrate (GAC) commenced. The L-Rhamnose-based vaccine was chosen due to the absence of the Rhamnose biosynthesis pathway in mammalian cells including humans thus this molecule is not found in any body tissue. Recent pre-clinical studies reveal that L-Rhamnose-based vaccines provide a protective effect by increasing IgG antibody titers without causing cross-reactive antibodies in test animal tissue. These findings demonstrate that the L-Rhamnose-based vaccine possesses strong immunogenicity, which effectively protects against GAS infection while maintaining a significantly higher degree of safety.
Assessment of COMMUNITY Pharmacists' Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice Towards Oral Health Care in Jordan
Authors: Mahmoud Alshatrat Sabha , KalefhTabnjh Abedelmalek , Murtada Ramadan AbdelRahman , Mahmoud Falah Tamadur , Saleem Tubaishat Reem
Published: October 2024

Background Community chemists now provide more professional and public health care, which is beneficial to the community, in addition to traditional medication distribution. While community pharmacists play a vital role in maintaining and promoting health, further research is required to accurately evaluate their knowledge, attitude, and practice toward oral health care among Jordanian pharmacists in northern Jordan. Methods A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted using an anonymous self-administered questionnaire in Arabic language, targeting 250 community pharmacists in four cities (Irbid, Jerash, Ajloun, and Al-Mafraq) in northern Jordan. The questionnaire comprised four domains: socio-demographic, knowledge, attitudes and practice concerning oral health care. The Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 22.0 was used to analyze the collected data, and the significance level was set at P ≤ 0.05. Results A total of 198 respondents returned the survey form, returning a response rate of 79.2%. Community pharmacists showed a good knowledge score of 58.2%. Only 40.9% said periodontal disease was the most frequent cause of tooth loss. The majority lacked knowledge of the optimal fluoride levels in toothpaste. The average attitude score was 71.05%. The most common oral health issues raised by patients were gingivitis and toothache (43.4% and 38.9%), respectively. Conclusion Community pharmacists have the general knowledge and attitude needed to play a significant role in providing dental care counselling to patients dental care. Nonetheless, community pharmacists stated they needed education and training to improve their practice. Continuing education courses related to oral health are recommended to reduce the risk of oral diseases and improve quality of life.
Does drinking coffee reduce the risk of kidney stone formation?
Authors: Servaas Elwira , Grelewicz Olga , Juśkiewicz Adam , Haber Mateusz , Czachor Adrianna , Kotula Alicja , Kula Paula , Kucy Natalia , Siemiątkowski Robert
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Kidney stones, a prevalent urological issue affecting 2% to 15% of the global population, result from complex physicochemical processes in urine. Untreated stones can lead to severe complications like ureter blockage and kidney damage. Diet plays a crucial role in stone formation, with historical negative views on coffee consumption. However, new research shows potential benefits of coffee. The purpose of this review was to analyze the association between coffee consumption and the risk of developing kidney stones.
State of knowledge: Kidney stones develop as solid masses in the kidney's collecting system and can consist of various substances like calcium oxalate, calcium phosphate, uric acid, and cystine. Understanding the formation of kidney stones involves analyzing the role of crystal retention. Coffee consumption has shown potential benefits in reducing the risk of kidney stones by influencing urine composition. Additionally, oxalate and calcium are key dietary components to consider in kidney stone prevention strategies. Coffee has demonstrated diverse health benefits, including protection against cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and neurodegenerative conditions. Its impact on blood pressure, glucose metabolism, and neuroprotection highlights its potential role in promoting overall well-being.
Conclusions: Coffee consumption, particularly due to its caffeine content and other compounds like chlorogenic acid, may reduce the risk of kidney stone formation. Caffeine has shown anti-lithogenic properties, decreasing oxalate excretion and increasing magnesium and potassium excretion, potentially preventing stone formation. A study by P. Peerapen and V. Thongboonkerd highlighted caffeine's role in reducing crystal adhesion to renal cells as a key mechanism in preventing kidney stones. In summary, coffee's diverse components could provide protection against kidney stone development.
Glioblastoma multiforme - disease overview considering sports and neurorehabilitation
Authors: Niedźwiedzka Monika , Rosińska Kamila , Łojewska Julia Natalia , Janicka Ewelina Justyna , Perko Agnieszka , Rosiński Mateusz , Mocarska-Aniśko Marta
Published: October 2024

The brain is the most important organ, coordinating the work of the entire body. However, even it sometimes makes mistakes. Mutations in its genetic material can lead to the development of one of the most aggressive cancers - glioblastoma multiforme.
Glioblastoma multiforme is the most common primary malignant tumor of the central nervous system (CNS). According to the WHO, it is classified as grade 4 in terms of malignancy. The 5-year survival rate is 7.2%. Occurs worldwide with a frequency of less than 10 cases per 100,000 inhabitants. It is more common in men than in women, with an average age at diagnosis of 65 years. The primary confirmed risk factor is exposure to ionizing radiation. Despite advances in medical research, the prognosis for individuals with glioblastoma multiforme remains unfavorable. The median survival time remains around 15 months.
This article provides an overview of glioblastoma multiforme, including its etiology, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment. By elucidating the current state of knowledge on glioblastoma multiforme, this work aims to facilitate early detection, treatment, and raise awareness among both physicians and patients about the disease. [7,14,17]
The role of vitamin D in the development and prevention of migraine: a review
Authors: Olszak Joanna , Zalewa Karolina , Kapłan Wojciech , Orłowska Dominika , Bartoszek Lidia
Published: October 2024

Introduction and Purpose 
Migraine is a widespread neurological disorder characterized by severe, pulsating headaches often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and hypersensitivity to light and sound. Although its exact cause is still under investigation, recent studies suggest that vitamin D deficiency may play a role in migraine occurrence and severity. Vitamin D, known primarily for its role in bone health, also affects the nervous and immune systems, and may influence inflammatory processes involved in migraine pathogenesis. This literature review aims to explore the relationship between vitamin D supplementation and the frequency and intensity of migraines, and whether supplementation could support migraine treatment. 
Material and Methods 
A comprehensive literature review was conducted using the PubMed database, focusing on articles published until the end of 2023. The search included the keywords: "vitamin D," "migraine," "headache," and "supplementation" in various combinations. Relevant studies were selected based on criteria such as monitoring vitamin D levels and the use of supplementation as an intervention in migraine patients. 
Results 
The results of the review suggest that vitamin D deficiency may be associated with an increased frequency of migraines. Supplementation with vitamin D was linked to a reduction in both the frequency and severity of migraines. While not all studies were consistent, the majority indicated that supplementation had a positive impact, particularly in individuals with vitamin D deficiency. 
Conclusions 
The findings suggest that vitamin D deficiency could be a risk factor for migraines, and that supplementation with vitamin D may help reduce the severity and frequency of migraine attacks. Although further research is required to establish optimal dosages and treatment protocols, vitamin D supplementation shows promise as a supportive therapy in migraine management.
Neandertales y el Origen de la Religiosidad:
Authors: Casadesús Ricard
Published: October 2024

En este artículo queremos profundizar en los datos científicos que hay en la actualidad sobre el Homo neanderthalensis para poder dilucidar, desde las dimensiones biológica, antropológica, anatómica, fisiológica y, finalmente, teológica, la posibilidad de que los neandertales pudieran tener alguna forma de espiritualidad o religiosidad. Si bien, Dios Creador, movido por su voluntad salvífica universal, quiso establecer, por gracia, una relación con todos los seres humanos desde sus orígenes, mostramos en este trabajo que los neandertales, esos homínidos contemporáneos de los primeros humanos anatómicamente modernos (Homo sapiens), a partir de su capacidad intelectual, abstractiva y simbólica, podían tener –y tenían– ya un comportamiento religioso primitivo y rudimentario. Aunque no fueran aún capaces de la revelación divina explícita, estaban en camino hacia la capacidad trascendente. Así que el origen temporal de esa relación humano-divina (además de la dependencia de la Creación) y del don de la gracia debe situarse más allá de los 200.000 años.
Religiosity and Attitudes towards Robots: Results from a Global Survey
Authors: Webster Craig , Ivanov Stanislav
Published: October 2024

Religion is one lens in which people understand the world around them and interpret the world around them. However, it is unclear whether religion has an impact upon attitudes towards robots around the world. In this article, the authors investigate how an individual’s religiosity impacts upon perceptions of robots. The article investigates how an individual’s religiosity impacts attitudes towards robots, using data from a large-scale global survey of attitudes towards robots (N=1263). In order to investigate how religion impacts upon such perceptions, cluster, factor and regression analyses were used for data analysis. The findings illustrate that there are discernible clusters of individuals exhibiting different levels of religiosity and that these clusters have different perceptions of robots, showing as hypothesized, that more religious individuals are more likely to be robophobic than robophilic. The relationship between religiosity and attitudes towards robots is negative: less religious people show more positive attitudes towards robots. While there is clear indication that there is a relationship between religiosity and attitudes towards robots, religiosity does not have a particularly strong impact upon perceptions of robots.  The analysis of the data illustrates that there are factors more clearly associated with perceptions of robots, meaning that while religiosity may have some impact on perceptions of robots, that there are more important attitudes and other factors that should be taken into consideration to encourage users to use robots in various service environments. In addition, in this particular research, there seems to be no notable relationship between perceptions of robots and demographics of individuals, illustrating that the age, gender, wealth, and education of an individual may not play a strong role in shaping perceptions of robots in service industries.
Zwrot transcendentalny jako przejście od perspektywy posybilistycznej do perspektywy aktualistycznej
Authors: Łaciak Piotr
Published: October 2024

The thesis of the article is that transcendental reduction means not only the purification of consciousness from of all natural and naturalistic apperceptions, but also from logical apperceptions. The transcendental turn itself in Husserl's philosophy can be understood as a transition from the possibilistic perspective, in which actual consciousness is treated as the realization of the idea of consciousness in general, to the actualistic perspective, recognizing the state of actually experiencing consciousness as the source of all possibilities. In transcendental phenomenology, the actually experiencing consciousness in its absolute reality retains primacy over all possibilities, including possible consciousness, and consequently, from the transcendental perspective, pure possibilities are related to the fact of my “I am”, which is the limit of eidetic possibilization of factuality.
Exact Simulation of Quadratic Intensity Models
Authors: Qu Yan , Dassios Angelos , Liu Anxin , Zhao Hongbiao
Published: October 2024

We develop efficient algorithms of exact simulation for quadratic stochastic intensity models that have become increasingly popular for modeling events arrivals, especially in economics, finance, and insurance. They have huge potential to be applied to many other areas such as operations management, queueing science, biostatistics, and epidemiology. Our algorithms are developed by the principle of exact distributional decomposition, which lies in a fully analytical expression for the joint Laplace transform of quadratic process and its integral newly derived in this paper. They do not involve any numerical Laplace inversion, have been validated by extensive numerical experiments, and substantially outperform all existing alternatives in the literature. Moreover, our algorithms are extendable to multidimensional point processes and beyond Cox processes to additionally incorporate two-sided random jumps with arbitrarily distributed sizes in the intensity for capturing self-exciting and self-correcting effects in event arrivals. Applications to portfolio loss modeling are provided to demonstrate the applicability and flexibility of our algorithms.

History: Accepted by Bruno Tuffin, Area Editor for Simulation.

Funding: This work was supported by the Beijing University of Posts and Telecommunications [Grant 2022RC58], the Shanghai University of Finance and Economics [Grant 2020110930], the National Natural Science Foundation of China [Grant 71401147], and Graduate Innovation Fund of Shanghai University of Finance and Economics [CXJJ-2023-387].

Supplemental Material: The software that supports the findings of this study is available within the paper and its Supplemental Information ( https://pubsonline.informs.org/doi/suppl/10.1287/ijoc.2023.0323 ) as well as from the IJOC GitHub software repository ( https://github.com/INFORMSJoC/2023.0323 ). The complete IJOC Software and Data Repository is available at https://informsjoc.github.io/ .
Measure Twice, Cut Once: Unit Profitability, Scalability, and the Exceptional Growth of New Firms
Authors: Tidhar Ron , Hallen Benjamin L. , Eisenhardt Kathleen M.
Published: October 2024

By studying three promising venture pairs with different business models in different nascent markets, we explore how some new firms grow into mature firms and some promising peers do not. The successful firms first use a learning process that begins with (1) focused attention on unit profitability (not growth), then broad (not narrow) learning, and finally active delay (not acceleration) of growth. They then use a capability-building process that (2) shifts to focused attention on unit-profitable growth, then makes long-term investments in profit-oriented capabilities, and finally leverages these capabilities into new products. In contrast, peers with focused attention on growth ironically fail to achieve it. Broadly, we contribute a process theory of exceptional growth that fills the gap between the growth of new firms in the entrepreneurship literature and the growth of mature firms in the strategy and organization theory literatures. Further, we add the importance of learning content—not just learning processes—to the entrepreneurship literature on new firm growth and a rare, novel, and grounded account of the origin of capabilities to the strategy literature on the resource-based view and mature firm growth. Finally, we add to practice the significance of product–market–profit fit and a precise definition of premature scaling.

Funding: This work was supported by the Strategy Research Foundation [Grant SRF-2018-DP-9167].
Usability evaluation of a smart upper limb rehabilitation exercise device for individuals with disabilities
Authors: Jeoung Bogja
Published: October 2024

User-friendly rehabilitation exercise devices can enhance health and quality of life through the convergence of information communication and medical technology. The development of rehabilitation exercise devices accessible to individuals with disabilities is important. We aimed to investigate the convenience, safety, and effectiveness of the developed rehabilitation exercise device for individuals with disabilities. A usability evaluation of the developed rehabilitation exercise device was conducted with five rehabilitation exercise experts and six athletes with disabilities using a questionnaire, the reliability of the revised questionnaire was r= 0.87. Qualitative analysis was conducted using semistructured interviews following the testing of the upper limb rehabilitation exercise device by the two user groups. In the usability evaluation survey of the developed rehabilitation exercise device, the results were very positive, with an overall score of 4.25 out of 5. The highest score was assigned to the convenience of the device, followed by the effectiveness of the exercise and the safety of the device. The developed rehabilitation exercise device allows for three types of strength improvement exercises, including isometric, isokinetic, and isotonic exercises, all within a single device. Given that it is constructed with a wire system, it can be adapted to various exercise methods, depending on the type of disability. The device can be used by both nondisabled and disabled individuals, allowing for various exercise methods. The evaluation results indicate that the proposed device is highly versatile and practical.
Performance trends and goal achievement of health indicators in Gyeongsangbuk-do and Daegu Metropolitan City
Authors: Cha NamHyun , Woo Mi Young , Hong Sung Jung
Published: October 2024

The core goal of South Korea’s health policy is equity. To this end, regional disparities in health indicators must be identified. However, as an in-depth analysis of health disparities and health indicators in Gyeongsangbuk-do and Daegu Metropolitan City is lacking, this study examined the trends in performance and goal achievement in health indicators. Data collected from 2011 to 2022 for 31 cities and counties in the Gyeongbuk region (23 regions in Gyeongsangbuk-do and eight regions in Daegu Metropolitan City) were analyzed to examine 28 health indicators across three categories: health behavior, health outcomes, and healthcare utilization. The data were analyzed using SPSS/WIN 23.0. The findings for health indicators showed significant and persistent gaps in health levels in Gyeongsangbuk-do, particularly in health behavior (31.3% and 68.7%), health outcomes (33.3% and 55.6%), and healthcare utilization (33.3% and 100%), in Gyeongsangbuk-do and Daegu Metropolitan City, respectively. Central government is vital for infrastructure development and financial assistance to effectively enhance health services in the local communities of Gyeongsangbuk-do.
CPD: Ocular manifestations of sexually transmitted diseases
Authors: Harvey Bill
Published: October 2024

Bill Harvey offers a very topical refresher in identifying the ocular impact of increasingly common sexually transmitted diseases (C-105925, suitable for logging as one distance learning CPD point by dispensing opticians, optometrists and therapeutic optometrists)
A Rewarding Solution
Authors: McCarthy-McClean Andrew
Published: October 2024

Andrew McCarthy-McClean speaks to practitioners about the benefits of orthokeratology
CPD: Myopia management with spectacle lenses - an update
Authors: Black Peter , Arbon Black Tina
Published: October 2024

Peter Black and Tina Arbon Black refresh our memories about the spectacle correction of myopia and bring us up to date with the latest developments in myopia management lens designs (C106065, suitable for logging as one provider-led distance learning CPD point for optometrists and dispensing opticians)
Counting the cost
Authors: Higginbotham Jason
Published: October 2024

Jason Higginbotham considers the high price of myopia management and the role optometrists must play in educating the public
Proton Radiotherapy in Ophthalmology
Authors: Clarkson Douglas
Published: October 2024

Dr Douglas Clarkson describes the use of proton beam radiotherapy as a specialist tool in the treatment of ocular cancers
CPD: An Introduction to Cerebral Visual Impairment in Children 2
Authors: Tooth Cirta
Published: October 2024

In the second of a four part series looking at an important cause of visual impairment in children, Cirta Tooth outlines how to diagnose cerebral visual impairment
Best research Ever
Authors: Heitmar Rebekka
Published: October 2024

Dr Rebekka Heitmar provides a round up of key clinical research from the 26th Annual Meeting of the European Association for Vision and Eye Research (Ever) 2023
CPD: Gut health – more than meets the eye?
Authors: Patel Sunni
Published: October 2024

Dr Sunni Patel looks into gut and eye health and the interconnected nature of our bodily systems
Based on Deep Learning Model and Flink Streaming Computing Short Term Photovoltaic Power Generation Prediction for Suburban Distribution Network
Authors: Li Hongtao , Li Zijin , Wang Chen , Xia Lei , Tan Huilei , Li Kai
Published: October 2024

With the advancement of global energy internet construction, accurate prediction of new energy generation power such as photovoltaic is an important foundation for ensuring the safety and economic working of new power systems. A short-term photovoltaic power generation prediction method for suburban distribution networks based on deep learning model fusion and Flink flow calculation is proposed to address the challenges of complex power grids, diversified disturbance factors, and isolated monitoring points. This method uses Bi directional Long Short Term Memory(BiLSTM) to extract cross sequential nonlinear characteristic of photovoltaic power generation time series data. Compared with standard LSTM, BiLSTM can consider both historical and future information simultaneously, thus extracting richer extracted features from power generation time series data. This method also integrates attention mechanism to capture the importance distribution of historical temporal features for power generation prediction, effectively solving the problem of long-term temporal dependence in standard LSTM models. The Flink streaming computing framework embeds a trained BiLSTM-Attention photovoltaic power generation prediction model, enabling real-time prediction and monitoring analysis of photovoltaic power generation at various monitoring points in the suburban distribution network. This article uses a dataset of a suburban photovoltaic power station for validation, and trains the model with historical power generation data, meteorological factors, weather types, seasons, and other information as inputs. The BiLSTM-Attention fusion model studys the temporal characteristics of power generation, and has high accuracy in predicting short-term photovoltaic power generation in different scenarios. The Flink streaming computing platform can not only process high throughput predicted power data, but also has low time delay.
Photovoltaic Maximum Power Point Tracking Technology Based on Power Prediction Algorithm Combined with Variable Step Length Disturbance Observation Method
Authors: Xu Zhiwei , Wang Bin , Xiang Kexian , Li Xianguo , Liu Wantai
Published: October 2024

Under partial shading conditions, the system operating sequence of photovoltaic cells does not fall on a single characteristic curve, and the traditional maximum power point tracking (MPPT) control algorithm is prone to causing the system output power to oscillate around the maximum power point. In the case of multiple peaks, the traditional MPPT algorithm is prone to being trapped in a local optimum solution. This paper proposes an MPPT control algorithm based on the WOA-RF prediction algorithm combined with a variable step disturbance observation method. By establishing a photovoltaic system simulation model, the improved algorithm is verified through simulation. The improved MPPT control algorithm can adaptively adjust the step size under different conditions to ensure that the system can quickly and accurately track the maximum power point. At the same time, by optimizing the algorithm logic and parameter settings, it can effectively avoid problems such as local optimum solutions and instability in the system, and improve the system convergence speed and tracking accuracy.
Study on Evaluation and Prediction Model of Long-term Mechanical Properties of Fine-grained Saline Soil Subgrade
Authors: Muhemaier Ruheiyan , Wei Mao , Xuejun Liu , Liangfu Xie , Zulin Ren
Published: October 2024

In this thorough examination, we dive deep into the long-lasting mechanical characteristics of fine-grained saline soil subgrades, aspiring to establish a precise and reliable collection of predictive models. Our objective is to provide a solid scientific footing for the design and ongoing upkeep of road networks within saline soil environments. Analyzing prolonged monitoring data across diverse highway subgrades within a prototypical saline soil locale, we unveil the intricate temporal fluctuations and environmental sensitivities of the soil’s mechanical properties under continuous load. Precisely, the subgrade’s compressive modulus dwindled by 15%, while shear strength declined by 8% over a five-year period. These trends intensify during rainy and scorching seasons, with drops surpassing 20% and 12% respectively. Leveraging this intricate data, we deploy nonlinear regression analysis and sophisticated machine learning algorithms to construct a predictive model tailored for the long-term mechanical properties of fine-grained saline soil roadbeds. This model integrates a multitude of factors, including load duration, temperature, humidity, and more, delivering accurate forecasts of key subgrade indicators like compressive modulus, shear strength, and beyond. In the verification stage, compared with the measured data, the error rate of the model prediction results is controlled within 5%, showing high prediction accuracy and stability. In addition, we also carried on the sensitivity analysis to the model, found that the load size and the duration of the impact on the mechanical properties of the roadbed is the most significant. Therefore, in the design of road engineering in saline soil areas, the influence of these factors should be fully considered, and reasonable engineering measures should be taken to ensure the safety and durability of roads. This study not only provides effective data support for the long-term mechanical performance evaluation of fine-grained saline soil roadbed, but also provides an important theoretical reference for engineering practice in related fields.
Polarization-controlled Brillouin scattering in elliptical optophononic resonators
Authors: Rodriguez Anne , Mehdi Elham , Priya Priya , Cardozo de Oliveira Edson R. , Esmann Martin , Lanzillotti-Kimura Norberto Daniel
Published: October 2024

The fast-growing development of optomechanical applications has motivated advancements in Brillouin scattering research. In particular, the study of high-frequency acoustic phonons at the nanoscale is interesting due to the large range of interactions with other excitations in matter. However, standard Brillouin spectroscopy schemes rely on fixed wavelength filtering, which limits their usefulness for the study of tunable optophononic resonators. It has been recently demonstrated that elliptical optophononic micropillar resonators induce different energy-dependent polarization states for the Brillouin and the elastic Rayleigh scattering and that a polarization filtering setup could be implemented to increase the contrast between the inelastic and elastic scattering of the light. An optimal filtering configuration can be reached when the polarization states of the laser and the Brillouin signal are orthogonal to each other. In this work, we theoretically investigate the parameters of such polarization-based filtering techniques to enhance the efficiency of Brillouin scattering detection. For the filtering optimization, we explore the initial wavelength and polarization state of the incident laser, as well as the ellipticity of the micropillars, and reach an almost optimal configuration for nearly background-free Brillouin detection. Our findings are one step forward in the efficient detection of Brillouin scattering in nanostructures for potential applications in fields such as optomechanics and quantum communication.
High spatial resolution φ-OFDR based on frequency-shift averaging and rotating vector summation
Authors: Li Min , Liu Kaijun , Yin Guolu , Zhong Zixuan , Zhu Tao
Published: October 2024

The coherent fading noise hinders the spatial resolution enhancements of phase optical frequency domain reflectometry (φ-OFDR). To mitigate the coherent fading noise, this study introduces frequency-shift averaging and rotating vector summation for strain measurements. The original Rayleigh backscattering signal was first divided into numerous sub-segments in frequency domain by using the frequency-shift averaging, and each sub-signal segment was transferred into vector signal with both intensity and phase information by using the rotating vector summation. Furthermore, a spatial position correction algorithm is incorporated to counteract the degradation of phase coherent, facilitating large-scale strain measurements. After optimizing the sub-frequency range and overlap ratio of the sub-signal in the frequency domain, we experimentally demonstrated that this method achieves strain measurement with a broad strain range of 2000 με, a high spatial resolution of 0.54 mm, and a high precision of 0.87%.
Early and adult life environmental effects on reproductive performance in preindustrial women
Authors: Colejo-Durán Lidia , Pelletier Fanie , Dillon Lisa , Gagnon Alain , Bergeron Patrick
Published: October 2024

Early life environments can have long-lasting effects on adult reproductive performance, but disentangling the influence of early and adult life environments on fitness is challenging, especially for long-lived species. Using a detailed dataset spanning over two centuries, we studied how both early and adult life environments impacted reproductive performance in preindustrial women. Due to a wide geographic range, agricultural production was lower in northern compared to southern parishes, and health conditions were worse in urban than rural parishes. We tested whether reproductive traits and offspring survival varied between early and adult life environments by comparing women who moved between different environments during their lifetime with those who moved parishes but remained in the same environment. Our findings reveal that urban-born women had an earlier age at first reproduction and less offspring surviving to adulthood than rural-born women. Moreover, switching from urban to rural led to increased offspring survival, while switching from rural to urban had the opposite effect. Finally, women who switched from rural to urban and from South to North had their first child at an older age compared to those who stayed in the same environment type. Our study underscores the complex and interactive effects of early and adult life environments on reproductive traits, highlighting the need to consider both when studying environmental effects on reproductive outcomes.
A conformable fractional finite difference method for modified mathematical modeling of SAR-CoV-2 (COVID-19) disease
Authors: Zanib Syeda Alishwa , Zubair Tamour , Ramzan Sehrish , Riaz Muhammad Bilal , Asjad Muhammad Imran , Muhammad Taseer
Published: October 2024

In this research, the ongoing COVID-19 disease by considering the vaccination strategies into mathematical models is discussed. A modified and comprehensive mathematical model that captures the complex relationships between various population compartments, including susceptible (Sα), exposed (Eα), infected (Uα), quarantined (Qα), vaccinated (Vα), and recovered (Rα) individuals. Using conformable derivatives, a system of equations that precisely captures the complex interconnections inside the COVID-19 transmission. The basic reproduction number (R0), which is an essential indicator of disease transmission, is the subject of investigation calculating using the next-generation matrix approach. We also compute the R0 sensitivity indices, which offer important information about the relative influence of various factors on the overall dynamics. Local stability and global stability of R0 have been proved at a disease-free equilibrium point. By designing the finite difference approach of the conformable fractional derivative using the Taylor series. The present methodology provides us highly accurate convergence of the obtained solution. Present research fills research addresses the understanding gap between conceptual frameworks and real-world implementations, demonstrating the vaccination therapy’s significant possibilities in the struggle against the COVID-19 pandemic.
Interaction of 4-ethyl phenyl sulfate with bovine serum albumin: Experimental and molecular docking studies
Authors: Gulati Payal , Solanki Pratima , Verma Awadhesh Kumar , Kumar Anil
Published: October 2024

4-ethyl phenyl sulfate (EPS), a protein-bound uremic toxin found in serum of patients suffering from autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and chronic kidney disease (CKD). As per recent advances in the field, gut metabolites after their formation goes to blood stream crosses blood brain barrier and causes neuro related problems. Increased levels of 4-EPS in human body causes anxiety in patients and its role remains elusive. 4-EPS interacts with serum albumin in human body and thus, a model study of interaction of BSA with 4-EPS is presented in support of it. Absorption spectroscopy result demonstrated decrease in bovine serum albumin (BSA) absorption upon interaction with increasing concentration of EPS in a range from 2 μM to 100 μM. Moreover, this interaction was confirmed by the fluorescence quenching in presence of metabolite. The change in secondary structure was demonstrated by circular dichroism, synchronous fluorescence and Fourier transform infra-red spectroscopy. Docking studies reveals binding score of −5.28 Kcal mol−1, demarking that 4-EPS is involved in interaction with BSA via amino acid residues, forming the stable complex. This interaction study may be helpful in devising strategies for the treatment of chronic kidney disease and other neuro related diseases, by producing synthetic compound that competes with albumin binding sites to allow 4-EPS clearance from the body.
Novel dual-pathogen multi-epitope mRNA vaccine development for Brucella melitensis and Mycobacterium tuberculosis in silico approach
Authors: Zhu Yuejie , Shi Juan , Wang Quan , Zhu Yun , Li Min , Tian Tingting , Shi Huidong , Shang Kaiyu , Yin Zhengwei , Zhang Fengbo
Published: October 2024

Brucellosis and Tuberculosis, both of which are contagious diseases, have presented significant challenges to global public health security in recent years. Delayed treatment can exacerbate the conditions, jeopardizing patient lives. Currently, no vaccine has been approved to prevent these two diseases simultaneously. In contrast to traditional vaccines, mRNA vaccines offer advantages such as high efficacy, rapid development, and low cost, and their applications are gradually expanding. This study aims to develop multi-epitope mRNA vaccines argeting Brucella melitensis and Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Rv (L4 strain) utilizing immunoinformatics approaches. The proteins Omp25, Omp31, MPT70, and MPT83 from the specified bacteria were selected to identify the predominant T- and B-cell epitopes for immunological analysis. Following a comprehensive evaluation, a vaccine was developed using helper T lymphocyte epitopes, cytotoxic T lymphocyte epitopes, linear B-cell epitopes, and conformational B-cell epitopes. It has been demonstrated that multi-epitope mRNA vaccines exhibit increased antigenicity, non-allergenicity, solubility, and high stability. The findings from molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation revealed a robust and enduring binding affinity between multi-epitope peptides mRNA vaccines and TLR4. Ultimately, Subsequently, following the optimization of the nucleotide sequence, the codon adaptation index was calculated to be 1.0, along with an average GC content of 54.01%. This indicates that the multi-epitope mRNA vaccines exhibit potential for efficient expression within the Escherichia coli(E. coli) host. Analysis through immune modeling indicates that following administration of the vaccine, there may be variation in immunecell populations associated with both innate and adaptive immune reactions. These types encompass helper T lymphocytes (HTL), cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL), regulatory T lymphocytes, natural killer cells, dendritic cells and various immune cell subsets. In summary, the results suggest that the newly created multi-epitope mRNA vaccine exhibits favorable attributes, offering novel insights and a conceptual foundation for potential progress in vaccine development.
Centralization or decentralization? Power allocation in team innovation management
Authors: Luo Shiwen , Tong David Yoon Kin
Published: October 2024

Power disparity, as an important form of internal team hierarchy, presents a "double-edged sword effect". To reconcile the inconsistent effects and systematically explore the different mechanisms of power disparity, this study constructs a comprehensive theoretical model based on power functionalism and power conflict theory, with team coordination and team conflict as dual mediators, and power legitimacy as moderator. By collecting valid questionnaires from 76 teams across 27 different types of companies in various regions, statistical analysis and hypothesis testing were conducted on the data. The results conclude that power disparity positively influences team innovation performance through the team coordination path and negatively affects it through the team conflict path. However, under the moderating effect of power legitimacy, the negative effect of the team conflict path is suppressed, and the positive effect of the team coordination path is strengthened, thus ensuring that power disparity has a positive effect on team innovation performance. This study provides a useful reference for designing the power hierarchy within enterprises, and offers profound insights into effective organizational structure and decision-making processes.
Economic evaluation of kinetic energy storage systems as key technology of reliable power grids
Authors: Düsterhaupt Stephan , Černíková Martina , Hyblerová Šárka
Published: October 2024

In recent years, energy-storage systems have become increasingly important, particularly in the context of increasing efforts to mitigate the impacts of climate change associated with the use of conventional energy sources. Renewable energy sources are an environmentally friendly source of energy, but by their very nature, they are not able to supply the required amount of energy in a uniform distribution. This study evaluated the economic efficiency of short-term electrical energy storage technology based on the principle of high-speed flywheel mechanism using vacuum with the help of an innovative approach based on life cycle cost analysis (LCC). The innovative potential of high-speed flywheel energy storage systems (FESS) can be seen in increasing the reliability of the electricity transmission system with the possibility of providing control power to compensate for residual loads caused by volatile renewable power sources and power sinks. Based on the research conducted, the LCC method was selected in this study as the most appropriate method to evaluate the economic efficiency of a high-speed FESS used to compensate for short-term fluctuations in an upgraded electric transmission system. As a result, the adjusted LCC per MWh values were compared with the average intra-hour margin realisable in the Intra-Day OTE Market, while the margin calculation also considered the efficiency of the inertial storage. Under the modelled technical and economic conditions, it was found that a high-speed FESS project that can compensate for short-term fluctuations in the electricity transmission system can be economically efficient in the Czech Republic.
Modeling the seasonal wildfire cycle and its possible effects on the distribution of focal species in Kermanshah Province, western Iran
Authors: Morovati Maryam , Karami Peyman
Published: October 2024

Predicting environmental disturbances and evaluating their potential impacts on the habitats of various plant and animal species is a suitable strategy for guiding conservation efforts. Wildfires are a type of disturbance that can affect many aspects of an ecosystem and its species. Therefore, through the integration of spatial models and species distribution models (SDMs), we can make informed predictions of the occurrence of such phenomena and their potential impacts. This study focused on five focal species, namely, the brown bear (Ursus arctos), wild goat (Capra aegagrus), wild sheep (Ovis orientalis), wildcat (Felis silvestris), and striped hyena (Hyaena hyaena). This study used MODIS active fire data and ensemble machine learning methods to model the risk of wildfire occurrence in 2023 for spring, summer, and autumn separately. This study also investigated the suitability of habitats for focal species via SDMs. The predicted probability maps for wildfire risk and habitat suitability were converted to binary values via the true skill statistic (TSS) threshold. The overlap of the habitat suitability map and wildfire occurrence areas was analyzed via GAP analysis. The area prone to fire in spring, summer and winter is equal to 9077.32; 10,199.83 and 13,723.49 KM2 were calculated, which indicates an increase in wildfire risk. Proximity to roads is one of the most important factors affecting the possible effects of wildfires in all seasons. Most fire occurrences are concentrated on agricultural lands, which, when integrated with other land use types, have wildfire potential in all seasons. The use of fire to destroy agricultural residues is a critical factor in the occurrence of wildfires. The distribution range of each focal species is considered the most important component of fire susceptibility. Hence, the suitable habitat for Hyaena hyaena in spring, summer, and autumn, with areas of 5.257, 5.856, and 6.889 km2 respectively, is the most affected by the possibility of fire. In contrast, these areas have the lowest values for Ovis orientalis, with 162, 127, and 396 km2 respectively. Therefore, species that are dependent on human-based ecosystems have the highest vulnerability to wildfire. Conservation efforts should focus on familiarizing farmers with methods of destroying agricultural residues as well as the consequences of intentional fires. The findings of this study can be used to mitigate the negative impacts of wildfire and protect the habitat of focal species.