bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A detectable change in the air-sea CO2 flux estimate from sailboat measurements
Authors: Behncke Jacqueline , Landschützer Peter , Tanhua Toste
Published: November 2023

The sailboat Seaexplorer collected underway sea surface partial pressure of CO2 (pCO2) data for 129 days (2018–2021), including an Antarctic circumnavigation. By comparing ensembles of data-driven air-sea CO2 fluxes computed with and without sailboat data and by applying a detection algorithm, we show that these sailboat observations significantly change the regional air-sea CO2 flux density in the North Atlantic and Southern Ocean. While the globally integrated effect is small due to the compensating changes in both basins, the Southern Ocean, particularly frontal regions (40–60°S) during summertime, exhibited the largest air-sea CO2 flux changes averaging 20% of the regional mean. Assessing the sensitivity of the air-sea CO2 flux, the results stay robust within the expected random measurement uncertainty (± 5 µatm) but remain undetectable with a measurement offset of 5 µatm. We thus conclude that sailboats fill essential measurement gaps in remote ocean regions.
Application of judgement aggregation theory to the process of political decision-making
Authors: Gordienko Polina
Published: November 2023

The aim of this paper is to present an application of judgement aggregation theory to the process of political decision-making in the German Parliament. I introduce the logical framework of the theory, examine paradoxes of majority voting that originally motivated the field and explain several key results on the impossibility of propositionwise judgment aggregation. I formalize a historic vote of the German Parliament, as it agreed on moving the Parliament’s and the Government’s seat from Bonn to Berlin in 1991 and represent it in classical propositional logic. I apply the introduced conditions on the dynamic voting procedure and demonstrate that it satisfies the demanding condition of systematicity and violates the condition of universal domain due to the breach of deductive closure in the individual sets of judgements. Building on my results, I claim that this rationality constraint is neither essential nor desirable in the process of political decision-making. Moreover, I argue that the relaxation of deductive closure in the personal sets of judgements is an attractive strategy to avoid from the impossibility result in the situations of political decision-making in governmental institutions.
Pochonia chlamydosporia and wine industry by-product in the management of Rhizoctonia solani
Authors: Pólippo Danielle , Giaretta Rosangela , Steilmann Paula , Santos Idalmir dos , Finatto Taciane , Lopes Everaldo Antônio
Published: November 2023

The fungus Pochonia chlamydosporia colonizes plant-parasitic nematode eggs, but also may suppress soilborne phytopathogenic fungi. This study aimed to assess the impact of four P. chlamydosporia isolates on the mycelial growth of Rhizoctonia solani in laboratory settings and the effect of these isolates in the management of R. solani in table beet under greenhouse conditions, including the combination or not of the isolate Pc-13 with a wine industry by-product. In laboratory, the isolates Pc-10, Pc-11, and Pc-13 of P. chlamydosporia inhibited R. solani mycelial growth in the assays of direct confrontation and production of volatile metabolites. In the greenhouse, all isolates of P. chlamydosporia increased table beet seedling emergence. However, only isolate Pc-13 reduced damping-off in the seedlings. The combination of the fungus with wine industry by-product reduced disease incidence in comparison to the control, but the effect was similar to applying the residue alone. Pochonia chlamydosporia isolate Pc-13 and the wine industry by-product have potential to manage damping-off in table beet.
The Effects of Base-Only-Restrained and Both-Ends-Restrained Conditions on the Ultimate Bearing Capacity of Energy Piles using Physical Modeling
Authors: Ebrahimi Mostafa , Keramati Mohsen , Ghasemi-Fare Omid , Rafiee Fahime , Moshtaghi Mohammadreza
Published: November 2023

Today, one of the best and most efficient ways to reduce energy consumption is using geothermal heat pumps. In the conducted studies, the high efficiency and low consumption of this system have been proven by researchers, and the main problem with the system is the high cost of its installation due to the high cost of drilling. Using energy piles eliminates the cost of drilling and makes this system affordable. In order to spread the use of energy piles, it is necessary to complete studies in this field. Load transfer mechanics in energy piles significantly changes under various thermomechanical loading due to thermal and mechanical interactions. This study modeled an energy pile installed in dry Firoozkooh sand using fully controlled 1-g physical tests. The ultimate bearing capacity of an energy pile was compared in the two general base-only-restrained and both-ends-restrained conditions. For each of these two conditions, the relative densities of 48% and 85% and the temperature changes of ΔT = 17°C and ΔT = 30°C were regarded as variables. The soil and pile temperatures, the pile head, the pile tip displacements, and the thermomechanical strains in a pile were recorded during the test. These parameters are used for calculating the temperature profile, the thermal stresses of the pile, the side shear stresses, and the ultimate bearing capacity of the pile. The results showed that the increase in relative density and temperature led to an increase in thermal stress and ultimate bearing capacity. In addition, higher thermal stresses were observed when both ends of the energy pile were restrained compared to the base-only-restrained condition. The minimum ultimate bearing capacity increase was obtained for the base-only-restrained condition with a relative density of 48% and ΔT = 17°C which was about 10%, while the maximum increase of 21% was obtained for the both-ends-restrained condition with a relative density of 85% and ΔT = 30°C.
Establishment, maintenance and application effect analysis of the prescription pre-review system in a tertiary hospital in china
Authors: Zhou Li , Gu Xi , Tan Feilong , Li Yanhua , Duanmu Wenjing , Che Hongyi , Yang Fan , Yin Wenjie
Published: November 2023

Background
Implementing a full-sample prescription review system has become imperative for hospitals to address the limitations of post-review practices and ensure patient medication safety.
Objective
To investigate the preliminary application impact of theprescription pre-review system (PPRS)and its rules maintenance in our hospital, while also evaluating the pharmaceutical service value resulting from the implementation of prescription pre-review.
Methods
We incorporated levels of prescribing warnings into the PPRS, while establishing and maintaining a database of appropriate medication practices. In addition, we evaluated the rationality of intravenous infusion prescriptions and key monitored drug prescriptions before and after the implementation of PPRS, and briefly evaluated the irrational prescriptions.
Results
A comprehensive range of 7 warning levels was established, reflective of the degree of prescription irrationality. Besides, a total of 3015 user rules were created to regulate medication behavior.The number and proportion of unreasonable prescriptions during January to March 2023 demonstrated a noteworthy reduction when compared to the corresponding period in 2022. Moreover, the continuous evaluation of systematic alert prescriptions during January to March 2023 indicated a remarkable monthly decline.
Conclusion
The introduction of the PPRS has ushered in a paradigm shift in the evaluation of prescription rationality. This transformative system has played a pivotal role in standardizing doctor's prescribing patterns, thereby promoting the rational utilization of drugs in clinical practice. By ensuring patient safety, elevating the quality of care, and enhancing the value of pharmacists, the PPRS has emerged as a catalyst for positive change in the healthcare setting.
Impact of a Health Action Process Approach model-based mobile health intervention on health behaviours of brucella patients: protocol for an intervention randomized controlled trial
Authors: Wang Jing , Jiang Yang , Yu Zhenjie , Chen Jiawei , Wu Yibo
Published: November 2023

Background
Brucellosis, one of the most common zoonotic diseases globally, is a serious public health problem. Effective health management is crucial in helping brucellosis patients develop and master self-management behavioural competencies. In recent years, mHealth has emerged as a popular and highly effective intervention for improving health-related outcomes for individuals with brucellosis. This study aims to explore the use of mHealth intervention, guided by the Health Action Process Approach theoretical model, to enhance the self-management level of brucellosis patients.
Methods
This study will be a single-blind single-centre randomized controlled trial conducted at the Fourth Central Hospital of Baoding City, Hebei Province. The study was approved by the Ethics Committee of the Fourth Central Hospital of Baoding City. The registration number of this experiment is ChiCTR2200064320. The estimated sample size will be 58 participants. Participants will be randomly assigned to either the mobile health intervention group or the routine education group. The mobile health education intervention will be delivered through an artificial intelligence terminal WeChat platform, while the routine management group will receive routine discharge education and a brochure on "Brucella Health Education". The primary outcome indicators will be the rate of health behaviour formation and health literacy. Secondary outcomes will be the measurement of psychological variables and behaviour change. Questionnaires were administered at baseline and at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months of follow-up to assess changes in health behaviour formation and health literacy among the respondents.
Discussion
This study will help to fill the research gap of postoperative health management of brucellosis patients in China based on health theory guidance. It will be the first health intervention study in China to apply the HAPA theoretical model as a guide for a group of brucellosis patients. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the utility of the HAPA model as a theoretical guide for improving health behaviors in patients with brucellosis and to confirm the validity of the HAPA theory as an effective theory to guide the improvement of health behaviors in patients.
Simulation Studies for the First Pathfinder of the CATCH Space Mission
Authors: Huang Yiming , Zhang Juan , Tao Lian , Li Zhengwei , Zhao Donghua , Yin Qian-qing , Wen Xiangyang , Xiao Jingyu , Zhang Chen , Zhang Shuangnan , Xiong Shaolin , Bu Qingcui , Cang Jirong , Cao Dezhi , Chen Wen , Ding Siran , Gao Min , Gao Yang , Hou Shujin , Jia Liping , Jin Ge , Li Dalin , Li Jinsong , Li Panping , Li Yajun , Liu Xiaojing , Ma Ruican , Pan Xingyu , Qi Liqiang , Rao Jinhui , Sun Xianfei , Tang Qingwen , Tang Ruijing , Wang Yusa , Xu Yibo , Yang Sheng , Yang Yanji , Yang Yong , Zhang Xuan , Zhang Yueting , Zhou Heng , Zhao Kang , Zhao Qingchang , Zhao Shujie , Zhao Zijian
Published: November 2023

The Chasing All Transients Constellation Hunters (CATCH) space mission is an intelligent constellation consisting of 126 micro-satellites in three types (A, B, and C), designed for X-ray observation with the objective of studying the dynamic universe. Currently, we are actively developing the first Pathfinder (CATCH-1) for the CATCH mission, specifically for type-A satellites. CATCH-1 is equipped with Micro Pore Optics (MPO) and a 4-pixel Silicon Drift Detector (SDD) array. To assess its scientific performance, including the effective area of the optical system, on-orbit background, and telescope sensitivity, we employ the Monte Carlo software Geant4 for simulation in this study. The MPO optics exhibit an effective area of 41 cm^2 at the focal spot for 1 keV X-rays, while the entire telescope system achieves an effective area of 29 cm^2 at 1 keV when taking into account the SDD detector’s detection efficiency. The primary contribution to the background is found to be from the Cosmic X-ray Background. Assuming a 625 km orbit with an inclination of 29◦, the total background for CATCH-1 is estimated to be 8.08 × 10^−2 counts s−1 in the energy range of 0.5–4 keV. Based on the background within the central detector and assuming a Crab-like source spectrum, the estimated ideal sensitivity could achieve 1.9 × 10^−12 erg cm−2 s−1 for an exposure of 10^4 s in the energy band of 0.5–4 keV. Furthermore, after simulating the background caused by low-energy charged particles near the geomagnetic equator, we have determined that there is no need to install a magnetic deflector.
Simplified DEM-based Modelling and Simulation of the Track ballast
Authors: Lee Yongwoong , Song Jihun , Lim Nam-Hyoung , Kim Seungjun
Published: November 2023

This study proposes a rational method for modelling ballast in tracks based on the Discrete Element Method (DEM) approach. To simulate a ballast consisting of a group of gravels, it is effective to use the discrete element method. The ballast comprises randomly arranged gravels of unspecified shapes, and requires multiple steps and a separate house code for implementing the ballast. In this study, a simplified ballast analysis model using the Parallel Bond Method (PBM) is proposed and verified through comparison with design standards. Additionally, case studies are conducted to investigate the effect of particle size distribution and micromechanical parameters on the simulation results.
A Planar Semi-Circled Horn-Like Bow-Tie Antenna Array for Amateur Radio Applications
Authors: S Bhoopalan , U Saravanakumar
Published: November 2023

This article presents the construction and examination of a Bow-Tie antenna array on a FR4 substrate. The proposed antenna geometry was chosen as a hybrid structure known as a semi-circled horn-like bow-tie antenna, and an array of four antennas in a single row was built. The semicircle diameter and the feedline length of a single antenna are 41.66mm and 21.44mm respectively. CST Microwave Studio was used for design and simulation. The proposed antenna array was printed on a 1.6mm thick substrate with a length of 325.00mm, a width of 56.00mm and a dielectric constant (ℇr) of 4.4. According to the experimental results, the proposed antenna has a return loss of-20.12dB at S11, a VSWR of 1.2 at S11 and Maximum Gain of about 2.94dB. The antenna array was tested in the 2.4GHz to 2.5GHz frequency range. The proposed semi-circled bow-tie antenna array was compared to the rectangular bow-tie antenna array, and it was observed that the proposed antenna array has outperformed the rectangular bow-tie antenna array at 2.45GHz. As a result, the proposed antenna array is a suitable candidate for Mobile and Amateur Radio Applications.
Elucidation of Molecular Mechanisms in Sepsis and Identification of Potential Therapeutic Targets through Analysis of Aging-Related Genes
Authors: Zhou Jie , Zhang Chuanwu , Liu Jiao , Zhou Yihua
Published: November 2023

Background
Sepsis remains a crucial global health issue characterised by high mortality rates and a lack of specific treatments. This study aimed to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying sepsis and to identify potential therapeutic targets and compounds.
Methods
High-throughput sequencing data from the GEO database (GSE26440 as the training set and GSE13904 and GSE32707 as the validation sets), weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis, alongside a combination of PPI and machine learning methods (LASSO and SVM) were utilised.
Results
WGCNA identified the black module as positively correlated, and the green module as negatively correlated with sepsis. Further intersections of these module genes with age-related genes yielded 57 sepsis-related genes. GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis, PPI, LASSO, and SVM selected six hub aging-related genes: BCL6, FOS, ETS1, ETS2, MAPK14, and MYC. A diagnostic model was constructed based on these six core genes, presenting commendable performance in both the training and validation sets. Notably, ETS1 demonstrated significant differential expression between mild and severe sepsis, indicating its potential as a biomarker of severity. Furthermore, immune infiltration analysis of these six core genes revealed their correlation with most immune cells and immune-related pathways. Additionally, compounds were identified in the traditional Chinese medicine Danshen, which upon further analysis, revealed 354 potential target proteins. GO and KEGG enrichment analysis of these targets indicated a primary enrichment in inflammation and immune-related pathways. A Venn diagram intersects these target proteins, and our aforementioned six core genes yielded three common genes, suggesting the potential efficacy of Danshen in sepsis treatment through these genes.
Conclusions
This study highlights the pivotal roles of age-related genes in the molecular mechanisms of sepsis, offers potential biomarkers, and identifies promising therapeutic compounds, laying a robust foundation for future studies on the treatment of sepsis.
Influence of Geomorphology on Southern Giant Petrel Nest Site Selection and Chick Survival near Palmer Station, western Antarctic Peninsula
Authors: Larsen Gregory D. , Varga Hanna F. , Patterson-Fraser Donna L. , Johnston David W. , Cimino Megan A.
Published: November 2023

Acute human activities and climate change threaten seabirds globally, but bird populations in remote areas are difficult to monitor. Many breeding populations of southern giant petrels (Macronectes giganteus) exemplify this challenge, and limited monitoring shows variable population trends throughout their circumpolar range. Aerial remote sensing can overcome these difficulties and reveal how local environmental factors influence habitat suitability and availability for nest site selection and chick survival. We used drone photography to map giant petrel nests, monitor chick survival and quantify associated physical and biological characteristics of the landscape at two neighboring breeding sites on Humble Island and Elephant Rocks, along the western Antarctic Peninsula in January–March 2020. Nest sites occurred in areas with relatively high elevations, gentle slopes, and high wind exposure. Statistical models predicted suitable nest site locations based on geomorphology and proximity to seal wallows and penguin colonies, and explained 73% of deviance at these sites, suggesting that suitable habitat conditions may help predict undiscovered and future nest sites across local landscapes. These findings quantify important habitat associations that may constitute species preferences or sensitivities and may, in turn, contextualize some of the diverse population trajectories observed for this species throughout the changing Antarctic environment.
Investigation and Modelling of Path Losses associated with Digital Terrestrial Television Communication Link Within the UHF band in Nigeria
Authors: Amusa Kamoli A. , Ilori Abolaji O. , Adejumobi Isaiah A. , Alabi Aderemi A.
Published: November 2023

The transition from analogue to digital television broadcasting (DTTV) ushered in a new age in worldwide TV culture. The migration necessitates a few technical studies, including path-loss prediction for DTTV communication lines. The purpose of this article is to predict path-loss on DTTV communication links inside UHF bands in Abeokuta, Nigeria, with Ogun State Television as the broadcasting station. Eight receiving sites, two kilometres apart, were chosen along the transmitter's contour. For pathloss prediction related with communication lines at those receiving sites, three empirical path-loss models (ECC-33, Hata, and Okumura) were applied. For a period of twelve months, actual measurements of received signal strength (RSS) and meteorological data (temperature, water vapour pressure, and atmospheric pressure) were taken at seven distinct times of day (0800, 1000, 1200, 1400, 1600, 1800, and 2000 hours). The measured RSS values and metrological data were used to calculate the real path-loss and surface radio refractivity of each receiving site, respectively. The gathered data were divided into dry and wet seasons, and separate models (Mwet-NO and Mdry-NO) for path-loss estimation were developed using multiple regression analysis. Metrics used for model evaluation were Root Mean Square Error (RMSE), Coefficient of Correlation, Coefficient of Multiple Regression, Mean Absolute Error and Mean Pathloss. Results shows that only Okumura model was close to actual path-loss obtained from measurements, indicating that both Hata and COST-231 models were un-suitable, further analysis revealed that Mwet-NO and Mdry-NO; compare well with the actual path-loss, hence, suitable for pathloss prediction in the study area.
Controlling Intraoperative Hyperglycemia in the Cardiac Surgical Patient using the Computerized Electronic Insulin Dose Calculator- A Quality Improvement Project
Authors: Zaky Ahmed , Roberson Tinsley , Hatter Brittany , Benz David , Zaky Ahmed , Boutwell Gary , Bode John , CRNA Hayden Stewart , Alsip Jorge A , Lemak Christy
Published: November 2023

Purpose:
Perioperative hyperglycemia is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. We report the findings of our quality improvement project on the use of an electronic insulin dosing calculator (EIC) to reduce intraoperative hyperglycemia in a cohort of cardiac surgical patients.
Methods
A pilot and a modified EIC were sequentially implemented in adult patients undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) procedures. Outcome measures (average blood glucose before, during and after CPB), process measures (percent EIC implementation) and balancing measures (incidence of hypoglycemia and average insulin doses utilized) were compared between baseline, pilot and modified EIC periods.
Results
The EIC was implemented in 97% of patients during the pilot period and in 86% of patients during the modified EIC period. Average blood glucose levels on CPB were the highest during the EIC period compared with pilot and baseline (184 mg/dl, vs. 180 mg/dl vs. 176 mg/dl, respectively, p=0.006). Mean blood glucose values at procedure end (123 mg/dl vs.123 mg/dl, vs. 173 mg/dl, respectively, p=<0.001) and first at ICU (141 mg/dl, vs.147 mg/dl, vs.157 mg/dl, respectively p= <0.001) were significantly reduced during the modified EIC and pilot periods compared with baseline. Hypoglycemia was significantly lower during EIC periods compared with baseline (1% vs. 7%, p=0.008). Less insulin units were used during the pilot and modified EIC periods compared to baseline (16.5U vs.16U, vs. 23U, respectively, p=0.006).
Conclusion
These preliminary findings suggest EIC effectiveness in reducing intraoperative hyperglycemia in patients undergoing CPB.
Providing medication for opioid use disorder and HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis at syringe services programs via telemedicine: A pilot study
Authors: McKellar Mehri S. , Des Marais Andrea C. , Chen Hillary , Choi Yujung , Lilly Rebecca , Ayers Denae , Bennett Jesse , Kestner Lauren , Perry Brian , Poley Stephanie , Corneli Amy , Meade Christina S. , Sachdeva Nidhi
Published: November 2023

Background:
People who inject drugs (PWID) are at high risk for opioid overdose and infectious diseases including HIV. We piloted PARTNER UP, a telemedicine-based program to provide PWID with medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD) with buprenorphine/naloxone (bup/nx) and oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) with tenofovir disoproxil fumarate/emtricitabine through two syringe services programs in North Carolina. We present overall results from this project, including treatment retention and medication adherence.
Methods:
Study participants met with a provider for an initial in-person visit at the SSP, followed by weekly telemedicine visits in month 1 and then monthly until program end at month 6. Participants were asked to start both MOUD and PrEP at initiation but could chose to discontinue either at any point during the study. Demographics and health history including substance use, sexual behaviors, and prior use of MOUD and PrEP were collected at baseline. Follow-up surveys were conducted at 3 and 6 months to assess attitudes towards MOUD and PrEP, change in opioid use and sexual behaviors, and for self-reported medication adherence. Provider notes were used to assess treatment retention.
Results:
Overall, 17 persons were enrolled and started on both bup/nx and PrEP; the majority self-identified as white and male. At 3 months, 13 (76%) remained on study; 10 (77%) reported continuing with both MOUD and PrEP, 2 (15%) with bup/nx only, and 1 (8%) with PrEP only. At 6 months, 12 (71%) completed all visits; 8 (67%) reported taking both bup/nx and PrEP, and 4 (33%) bup/nx only. Among survey participants, opioid use and HIV risk behaviors decreased. Nearly all reported taking bup/nx daily; however, self-reported daily adherence to PrEP was lower and declined over time. The most common reason for not continuing PrEP was feeling not at risk for acquiring HIV.
Conclusions:
Our results study show that MOUD and PrEP can be effectively administered via telemedicine in SSPs. PrEP appears to be a lower priority for participants with decreased retention and adherence. Low perception of HIV risk was a reason for not continuing PrEP, possibly mitigated by MOUD use. Future studies including helping identify PWID at highest need for PrEP are needed.
Trial registration
Trial registration: Providing Suboxone and PrEP Using Telemedicine, NCT04521920. Registered 18 August 2020. https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT04521920?term=mehri%20mckellar&rank=2
Secondary pseudohypoaldosternism. Review of the literature and experience in a Pediatric Nephrology Unit.
Authors: Sánchez Amelia Moreno , Atarés Alvaro García , Herranz David Molina , Torres Irene Antoñanzas , Salas Yolanda Romero , Izuzquiza Jose Ignacio Ruiz del Olmo
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND: Secondary pseudohypoaldosteronism (S-PHA) is a rare entity that appears due to the resistance of the renal tubule to the action of aldosterone in children with urinary tract infection and/or nephrourological malformation.
METHODS: Retrospective observational descriptive study of cases diagnosed with secondary pseudohypoaldosteronism from a Pediatric Nephrology Unit for 14 years. Review of the bibliography of the last 10 years.
RESULTS: A sample of 12 patients has been obtained. The most frequent reason for consultation was the loss of weight (50%). Sixty-seven percent of the patients associated urinary tract infection. Ninety-two percent of them had an underlying nephrourological pathology, and 60% were admitted to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit. One patient presented neurological sequelae because of a subsequent pontine myelinosis. Twenty-one articles have been registered in PubMed: 9 clinical case reports, 3 bibliographic reviews and 9 case series.
CONCLUSIONS: There is little evidence and consequently a lack of knowledge of secondary pseudohypoaldosteronism. It usually appears with non-specific symptoms, so we sholud know its typical hydroelectrolytic changes to establish a clinical suspicion, to be able to offer early medical and surgical treatment to avoid life-threatening complications.
Study on air cushion impact characteristics of seaplane landing with ALE method
Authors: shao jiaru , shi jiangdong , Yang Yu , Zheng Zijun
Published: November 2023

Seaplane landing is a strong nonlinear gas-liquid-solid multi-phase coupling problem. In this paper, Arbitrary Lagrangian-Eulerian (ALE) method is used to study the landing process of seaplane at different initial attitude angles and velocities. Firstly, a comparative study of the structure entry model and the air cushion model of flat impact water surface were conducted to verify the reliability, and the influence of the velocity, water shape and air cushion were accurately analyzed. Subsequently, the influences of vertical acceleration, attitude angle changes, aircraft impact force, and flow field distribution are analyzed. The results show that the air cushion has a great influence on the landing of seaplane. The cushioning effect of the air cushion becomes more pronounced with higher initial horizontal velocities. The disappearance of the air cushion will cause the tail part to impact the water surface twice and produce a pressure value beyond the initial value, which may cause damage to the seaplane. The initial attitude angle will affect the contact position between the seaplane and the water surface, with a greater angle resulting in a more significant air cushioning. This study provides a range of suitable speeds and attitude angles for the seaplane takeoff and landing process.
Endocrine and dog factors associated with semen quality
Authors: Hallberg Ida , Olsson Hannah , Lau Angus , Wallander Stina , Snell Anna , Bergman Daniel , Holst Bodil Ström
Published: November 2023

Knowledge of factors associated with semen quality may help in investigations of the aetiology and pathophysiology. We investigated the correlation between biomarkers for testicular cell function (anti-müllerian hormone, AMH, Inhibin B, testosterone, steroid-hormone binding globulin, SHBG, insulin like peptide 3, INSL-3), alkaline phosphate (ALP), canine prostate-specific esterase (CPSE), and heterophilic antibodies with dog variables, semen quality, and fertility. Blood and semen were collected from 65 Bernese Mountain Dogs. We evaluated total sperm count, motility and morphological parameters. The semen quality ranged from poor to excellent, with an average total sperm count of 1.1 × 109 and 50% morphologically normal spermatozoa (MNS). Age and abnormal testicular consistency correlated with decreased motility and MNS. Higher ALP correlated with higher total sperm count.. AMH could not be detected in seminal plasma. AMH in blood correlated with head defects and high AMH concentration correlated with a severe decline in several semen parameters. Testosterone was negatively and CPSE positively correlated with age. No correlations were found for INSL-3, inhibin B, or heterophilic antibodies. Our findings contribute to the understanding of factors associated with semen quality in dogs, particularly related to Sertoli cell function.
The acaricidal and repellent activity of the essential and nano essential oil of Thymus vulgaris against the brown dog tick, Rhipicephalus sanguineus (Acari: Ixodidae)
Authors: Alibeigi Zohreh , Rakhshandehroo Ehsan , Saharkhiz Mohmmad Jamal , Alavi Amir Mootabi
Published: November 2023

Background
The brown dog tick is globally distributed and harms the host in terms of blood feeding and pathogen transferring. Chemicals are traditionally used for the control, but herbal plants has been investigated mainly due to their natural components with killing and repellant effects. Previously, the role of thymol has been described for the biocontrol of ticks at different stages. Therefore, was conducted a study to evaluate the effects of a thymol-rich herbal plant, Thymus vulgaris L., and its major constituents on Rhipicephalus sanguineus.
Results
In this work, we suggested to perform the larval mortality test using 2 ml microtubes instead of previously described pocket and immersion methods. This method seems to be closer to the environmental condition. The results represented a great activity of the nano EO and thymol on live larva. The nano form was highly effective starting from the lowest concentration (0.125%) showing 88.9% mortality. In comparison, the EO revealed similar effects but at higher concentrations. The nano emulsion and thymol showed also a complete repellency effect against larva at the concentrations of 0.5% and 20 mg/ml, respectively. In adult tick bioassays, thymol was the only substance that accompanied with a statistically significant reduction in female oviposition rate (p < 0.05), however at its utmost concentrations.
Conclusion
According to the results, the nano EO of T. vulgaris is recommended for the biologic control against R. sanguineus larva. In addition, further studies should be done on the nano material to enhance its effect on the adult female tick reproduction.
Improved Stability Analysis of Neural Networks with Time Delay Based on Variable Augmented Free Weight Matrix
Authors: Li FuDong , Xie Wei , Zhu WeiYi , Shi ZongHao
Published: November 2023

This article investigates the stability of time-delay neural network systems by the free-weighting matrices based on variable- augmentation.In the process of accurately evaluating the stability of delayed neural network systems, the conservative simplification of stability criteria has received widespread attention. In this paper, a variable-augmentation-based free-weighting matrix method is applied to time-varying delayed neural network systems, and unnecessary free weighting matrices are removed. Some results with fewer free-weighting matrices are obtained, while maintaining their stability and conservatism. Finally, a specific neural network numerical example was used to demonstrate the effectiveness of this method.
High ratio of resident to exhausted CD4+ T cells predicts favorable prognosis and potentially better immunotherapeutic efficacy in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Zuo Anning , Lv Jinxiang , Jia Wenlong , Ba Yuhao , Liu Shutong , Zhang Yuyuan , Weng Siyuan , Xu Hui , Liu Long , Wang Libo , Liu Zaoqu , Han Xinwei
Published: November 2023

Background: Tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) are significantly implicated in regulating the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) and immunotherapeutic response. However, little is known about the impact of the resident and exhausted status of TILs in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).
Methods: Single-cell RNA sequencing data was applied to discover resident and exhausted signatures of TILs. Survival outcomes, biological function, immune infiltration, genomic variation, immunotherapeutic efficacy, and sorafenib response were further explored the clinical significance and molecular association of TILs in HCC. Moreover, a candidate gene with predictive capability for the dismal subtype was identified through univariate Cox regression analysis, survival analysis, and BEST website.
Results: Single-cell analysis revealed that CD8+ T, CD4+ T, and NK cells were strongly associated with resident and exhausted patterns. Specific resident and exhausted signatures for each subpopulation were extracted in HCC. Further multivariate Cox analysis revealed that the ratio of resident to exhausted CD4+ T cells in TIME was an independent prognosis factor. After incorporating tumor purity with the ratio of resident to exhausted CD4+ T cells, we stratified HCC patients into three subtypes and found that (i) CD4 residencyhighexhaustionlow subtype was endowed with favorable prognosis, immune activation, and sensitivity to immunotherapy; (ii) CD4 exhaustionhighresidencylow subtype was characterized by genome instability and sensitivity to sorafenib; (iii) Immune-desert subtype was associated with malignant-related pathways and poor prognosis. Furthermore, spindle assembly abnormal protein 6 homolog (SASS6) was identified as a key gene, which accurately predicted the immune-desert subtype. Prognostic analysis and in vitro experiments further demonstrated that SASS6 was closely associated with tumor prognosis, proliferation, and migration.
Conclusions: The ratio of resident to exhausted CD4+ T cells could serve as a candidate biomarker for evaluating prognosis and potential response to immunotherapy in HCC and SASS6 was a novel biomarker and candidate therapeutic target for prognostic assessment of HCC.
Both local stability and dispersal contribute to metacommunity sensitivity to asynchronous habitat availability (depending on landscape structure and foodweb complexity)
Authors: de Espanés Pablo Moisset , Ramos-Jiliberto Rodrigo
Published: November 2023

The stability of isolated communities is determined by foodweb complexity.However, it is unclear how local stability interacts with dispersal in multitrophic metacommunities to shape biodiversity patterns. Furthermore, metacommunity dynamics in landscapes with non-trivial and dynamic structures are less understood.vspace{8pt}\newlineObjectives: We aim to evaluate the influence of local stabilizing factors versus dispersalin determining the sensitivity of metacommunity biodiversity to increasing site availabilityasynchrony. Additionally, we assess the role of foodweb complexity and landscapestructure as modulating factors.vspace{8pt}\newlineMethods: We developed a model based on random matrices for local communities, which are linked by stochastic dispersal over explicit dynamic landscapes. We ran numerical simulations and computed the effect sizes of foodweb temperature, self-limitation, dispersal ability, and all pairwise combinations, on the sensitivity of biodiversity to landscape asynchrony. We explored gradients of species richness, foodweb connectance, number of sites, and landscape modularity.Asynchrony among site availability periods reduced \(\alpha\)-diversity and rose \(\beta\)-diversity. Asynchrony increased \(\gamma\)-diversity at high dispersal rates. Bothlocal and regional stabilizing factors determined the sensitivity of metacommunities to land-scape asynchrony. Local factors were more influential in landscapes with fewer sites andlower modularity. Local factors were particularly influential in metacommunities composed of complex foodwebs.This research offers insights into the dynamics of metacommunitiesin dynamic landscapes, providing valuable knowledge about the interplay between local andregional factors in shaping ecological stability and species persistence. We delve into themechanisms underlying our results and discuss potential extensions of our study.
Ultrastructure and phylogenetic significance of spermatozoa in Nemertea
Authors: Bartolomaeus Thomas , Bronkars Vanessa , Adam Leon , Döhren Jörn
Published: November 2023

Sperm ultrastructure is frequently employed as a source for phylogenetic inference due to the ease of accessing spermatozoa. Despite being unicellular, sperm cells exhibit a relatively high number of diverse characters and character states. Spermatozoa are subject to strong sexual selection as they are finely tuned for maximizing male reproductive success. Given this strong functional constraint, one might anticipate the emergence of convergent characters in line with similar modes of reproduction. As a result, it might be expected that sperm cells do not possess substantial phylogenetic signal, with functional constraints overshadowing any evolutionary heritage. To test this assumption, we conducted a study on sperm ultrastructure in 12 nemertean species, representing closely related groups and major nemertean lineages. We analyzed these data for their phylogenetic signal within the context of the most recent nemertean phylogenies. Our findings demonstrate that, at all systematic levels, functional constraints imposed by sexual selection or the mode of reproduction do not supersede the influence of historical constraints on sperm ultrastructure.
Integrating Linguistically Responsive Care into Medical Curriculum: A Student-Designed Interpreter Speaking-Spanish Patient Simulation
Authors: Chan Joanne , Vill Brittany , Monjazeb Ryan , Shah Aashka , Spaide Rachel , Nelson Christopher , Coiado Olivia C.
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Language barrier is a social determinant of health and given the impact of
language barriers on social determinants of health, we observed a gap in our medical education on how to approach encounters with Limited English Proficiency (LEP) patients. To address this issue, a simulation with Spanish-speaking standardized patients (SP) was created.
Methods: 12 first-year medical students participated in this study. Students had an opportunity to counsel Spanish speaking patients on chronic kidney disease. The patient case was created with special attention to culturally specific factors and students watched an educational video on interpreter etiquette in healthcare settings. Identical pre- and post-experience surveys consisting of quantitative (Likert scale of 1-5) and qualitative questions were collected to assess the impact of the experience on the students’ comfort and understanding of proper interpreter use. The outcomes of the session were measured with these surveys and participant feedback.
Results: Statistically significant differences were observed between quantitative pre- and post-experience survey questions. Surveys indicated increases in comfortability acquiring an interpreter for a clinical encounter, comfortability using an interpreter during a clinical encounter, and recognition of mistakes made by healthcare providers while using an interpreter.
Discussion/Conclusion: The Spanish-speaking standardized patient case empowered medical students to feel comfortable procuring and utilizing interpreter services, demonstrating the need for interpretation in providing culturally competent and equitable care to LEP patients. We foresee this patient encounter experience becoming a valuable learning tool for students and hope to integrate this case into the first-year curriculum at our institution and possibly beyond.
Experimentally investigation of the high temperature oxidation mechanism for Ni-Al-Pt alloy supported by CALPHAD calculations
Authors: Ta Na , Zhang Lijun , Li Qin
Published: November 2023

High temperature oxidation experiments combined with CALPHAD (CALculation of PHAse Diagram) thermodynamics calculations have been performed in Ni-20Al-5Pt (in at.%) alloy at 1100°C, to attain a more detailed fundamental understanding of the high temperature oxidation behavior of Ni-Al-Pt alloy. And the influences of alloy composition on the formation, growth and spallation behavior of TGO scales formed during isothermal tests at 1100°C have also been discussed. It is indicated that the whole oxidation process developed in stages, Al2O3 formed firstly at the bottom, NiO overgrow and undercut the Al2O3. The formation of NiO results in nickel depletion and aluminum enrichment, as soon as the Al content reaches the critical value, θ-Al2O3 transfers into α-Al2O3 with compacted structure, the outward diffusion of Al dominates, inward diffusion of O secondarily. The α-Al2O3 would establish itself as a complete layer to shut down further Ni outward diffusion. When Al is not enough, Al2O3 will react with NiO to form NiAl2O4. The subsequent oxidation process may also result in nickel enrichment at the oxide scale/alloy interface. It is demonstrated that the vacancies coalesce into small voids due to unequal diffusion of Al towards the Al2O3 scale and backward diffusion of Ni in the opposite direction, leading to extensive scale spallation. While Pt has the active effect to contribute thinner oxide scale that is more resistant to spallation.
Level of perceived social support, and associated factors, in combat-exposed (ex-)military personnel: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Grover Laura Elizabeth , Williamson Charlotte , Burdett Howard , Palmer Laura , Fear Nicola Townsend
Published: November 2023

Purpose
Combat deployment increases exposure to potentially traumatic events. Perceived social support (PSS) may promote health and recovery from combat trauma. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to synthesize studies investigating the level of PSS, and associated factors, in (ex-)military personnel who served in the Iraq/Afghanistan conflicts.
Methods
Five electronic databases were searched in August 2023 and searches were restricted to the beginning of the Iraq/Afghanistan conflicts in 2001. The search was conducted according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. A quality assessment was carried out, a meta-analysis and narrative synthesis were performed.
Results
In total, 35 papers were included consisting of 19,073 participants. Out of these, 31 studies were conducted in the United States and 23 were cross-sectional. The pooled mean PSS score was 54.40 (95% CI: 51.78 to 57.01). Samples with probable post-traumatic stress disorder reported a lower mean level of PSS (44.40, 95% CI: 39.10 to 49.70). Around half of the included studies (n = 19) investigated mental health in relation to PSS, whilst only four explored physical health. The most frequently reported risk factors for low PSS included post-traumatic stress disorder, depression and anxiety, whilst post-traumatic growth and unit support were protective factors.
Conclusion
Higher levels of PSS were generally associated with more positive psychosocial and mental health-related outcomes following deployment. PSS should be targeted in psychosocial interventions and education programmes. Future studies should investigate PSS in (ex-)military personnel across other countries and cultures.
Parechovirus infection in human brain organoids: host innate inflammatory response and not neuro-infectivity correlates to neurologic disease
Authors: Capendale Pamela E. , García-Rodríguez Inés , Ambikan Anoop T. , Mulder Lance A. , Depla Josse A. , Freeze Eline , Koen Gerrit , Calitz Carlemi , Sood Vikas , de Sá Renata Vieira , Neogi Ujjwal , Pajkrt Dasja , Srid Adithya , Wolthers Katja C.
Published: November 2023

Picornaviruses are a leading cause of central nervous system (CNS) infections. While genotypes such as Parechovirus A3 (PeV-A3) and echovirus 11 (E11) can elicit severe neurological disease, the highly prevalent PeV-A1 is not associated with CNS disease. Here, we expand our current understanding of these differences in PeV-A CNS disease using human brain organoids and clinical isolates of PeV-A genotypes. Our data indicates that PeV-A1 and A3 specific differences in neurological disease are not due to infectivity of CNS cells as both viruses productively infect brain organoids with a similar cell tropism. Proteomic analysis showed that PeV-A infection significantly alters the host cell metabolism. The inflammatory response following PeV-A3 (and E11 infection) was significantly more potent than that upon PeV-A1 infection. Collectively, our findings align with clinical observations and suggest a role for inflammatory-mediated neurology, rather than viral replication, in PeV-A3 (and E11) infection.