bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Getting started with FUNWAVE-TVD : troubleshooting guidance and recommendations
Authors: Torres Marissa , Lam Michael-Angelo , Cass Levi , Malej Matt , Shi Fengyan
Published: June 2024

This technical note reviews some common initialization errors when first getting started with the numerical wave model, FUNWAVE-TVD (Fully Nonlinear Wave model–Total Variation Diminishing), and provides guidance for correcting these errors. Recommendations for troubleshooting the source or cause of instabilities in an application of the model as well as recognizing the difference between physical and numerical instabilities are also outlined and discussed. In addition, a quick start troubleshooting guide is provided in the Appendix. This guidance is particularly useful for novice to intermediate users of FUNWAVE-TVD who are less familiar with the workflow of setting up the model and interpreting error output statements. From this document, users will gain a fundamental understanding of practical troubleshooting techniques for FUNWAVE-TVD that will improve the problem-solving workflow and enhance the final product of a wave modeling study. Providing coastal planners and engineers with ease of model access and usability guidance facilitates efficient screening of design alternatives for effective decision-making under environmental uncertainty.
Penanaman Perilaku Hidup Bersih dan Sehat di SDN Plumbungan “Healthy Lifestyle for Healthy Life”
Authors: Ratnasari Sri Dwi , Muslimah Eka Apriliani  , Endah Dwi Rawanti  , Dwi Dita Dyah P  , Darra Nandang Trisno  , Alifa Hanun N
Published: June 2024

This activity is one of the work program implementations of the Kampus Mengajar at SDN Plumbungan which aims to provide knowledge and practice of PHBS for students at SDN Plumbungan. The main targets are students from grade 1 to grade 6. The implementation of the activity was carried out on November 9 and 24 November 2023. The methods used are planning, implementation, and evaluation. The results of community service entitled Planting Clean and Healthy Living Behavior at SDN Plumbungan with the theme "Healthy Lifestyle for Healthy Life" went well. Students are very enthusiastic in understanding the materials presented about PHBS, practicing hand washing properly and correctly, and practicing Jemuah Sehat with the theme "contents of my plate" which is nutritionally balanced. This activity reinforces students' awareness in maintaining health and hygiene, especially in the school environment.
Pengenalan Metode Tilawati pada Jama’ah Pengajian Musholla Nurul Iman di Desa Mekar Sari Kecamatan Tanjung Raya Kabupaten Mesuji Provinsi Lampung
Authors: Afifah Noor , Nopriansyah Untung , Agustina Irani , Adyan Asyrofal , Hidayat Ananda
Published: June 2024

This article contains the results of research during the community service period in Mekar Sari Village, Tanjung Raya District, Mesuji Regency, Lampung Province.  Based on the results of observations when participating in the routine recitation activities of the Nurul Iman prayer room, there are several problems and one of them is the lack of interest in learning and reading the Koran by mothers in Mekar Sari village which is one of the problems that is the focus of this article's research.  The use of inappropriate methods in a lesson can cause learning outcomes to be less than optimal.  The application of the tilawati method is an alternative in increasing the motivation and ability of mothers to read the Qur'an.  The principle of teaching the Qur'an using the tilawati method is that it is taught practically using the rost song, taught in a classical manner, taught in groups with reading and listening techniques using the Al-Qur'an.  The implementation of Al-Qur'an learning using the tilawati method in the prayer congregation of the Nurul Iman musholla has had the effect of changing the ability of mothers to read the Al-Qur'an.  Supporting factors and inhibiting factors for learning the Qur'an with the tilawati method are influenced by technical and field conditions, as well as the conditions of the recitation congregation.  From this it is hoped that the interest and ability of the women in the prayer congregation at the Nurul Iman prayer room can increase so that learning outcomes are more effective and of good quality.
Pelatihan Pembuatan Pupuk Organik Cair dari Limbah Kulit Bawang Merah dan Air Cucian Beras (Leri) Pada Ibu Rumah Tangga Di Desa Mekar Sari, Kecamatan Tanjung Raya Kabupaten Mesuji
Authors: Leoninda Alfiyani , Nopriansyah Untung , Rahmawati Iis , Zulkifli  , Desilia  , Deka Pusanti Seli
Published: June 2024

This community service project in the form of training was carried out based on the collaboration of KKN students from UIN Raden Intan Lampung and the community of Mekar Sari Village, in Tanjung Raya District, Mesuji Regency, Lampung Province, in order to provide training on community-friendly products for making liquid organic fertiliser from household waste to fertilise plants. The method used is counselling and providing training to the community, especially housewives. The purpose of this service is to educate and manage household waste as plant fertilizer. As a result, people are very aware that household vegetable waste, which is reprocessed into liquid organic fertiliser, has benefits for fertilising plants.
Impact of Pressure-Dependent Interfacial Tension and Contact Angle on Capillary Heterogeneity Trapping of CO2 in Storage Aquifers
Authors: Ren Bo , Littlefield James , Jia Cunqi , Ni Hailun , Duncan Ian
Published: June 2024

Carbon dioxide (CO2) capillary trapping increases the total amount of CO2 that can be effectively immobilized in storage aquifers. This trapping, manifesting itself as accumulated CO2 columns at a continuum scale, is because of capillary threshold effects that occur below low-permeability barriers. Considering that capillary pressure is dictated by heterogeneous pore throat size, the trapped CO2 column height and associated CO2 saturation will vary spatially within a storage aquifer. This variation will be influenced by two pressure-dependent interfacial parameters—CO2/brine interfacial tension (IFT) and CO2/brine/rock contact angle. Our objective is to understand how the pressure dependence of these two parameters affects the heterogeneity of capillary trapped CO2 at a continuum scale.

Our conceptual model is a 1D two-zone system with the upper zone being a flow barrier (low permeability) and the lower zone being a flow path (high permeability). The inputs to this model include microfacies-dependent capillary pressure vs. saturation curves and permeability values. The input capillary pressure curves were collected in the literature that represents carbonate microfacies (e.g., dolograinstone) in a prevalent formation in the Permian Basin.

We then used the Leverett j-function to scale the capillary pressure curve for the two zones that are assigned with the same or different microfacies. During scaling, we considered the influence of pressure on both the IFT and contact angle of CO2/brine/dolomite systems. We varied the zone permeability contrast ratio from 2 to 50. We then assumed capillary gravity equilibriums and calculated the CO2 saturation buildup corresponding to various trapped CO2 column heights. The CO2 saturation buildup is defined as the CO2 saturation in the lower layer minus that in the upper one.

We found that the saturation buildup can be doubled when varying pressure in a storage aquifer, after considering pressure-dependent IFT and contact angles. Thus, assuming these two parameters to be constant across such aquifers would cause large errors in the quantification of capillary trapping of CO2. The whole study demonstrates the importance of considering pressure-dependent interfacial properties in predicting the vertical distribution of capillary trapped CO2. It has important implications in developing a better understanding of leakage risks and consequent storage safety.
Effect of exercise and Yoga program on renin-angiotensin mechanism in cardiac autonomic neuropathy in Diabetes mellitus patients.
Authors: Hulke Sandip Meghnad , Khadanga Sagar , Kotnis Ashwin Laxmikant , Thakare Avinash Eknath , Parashar Rachna , Bharshankar Rajay , Wakode Santosh , Mishra Shweta
Published: June 2024

Background: Cardiac autonomic neuropathy (CAN) is one of the frequent complications of diabetes mellitus. Renin-angiotensin mechanism play role in the development of CAN which may be affected by exercise as well as yoga. Aim of the study was to study the effect of a 6-month supervised exercise program/ Yoga program on cardiac autonomic neuropathy (CAN) status and renin angiotensin (RAAS) parameters in a diagnosed case of CAN in Diabetes mellitus patients.
Method: Diagnosed patients with CAN in diabetes mellitus would be randomly divided into two groups. One group will undergo a supervised exercise program and the other would follow a supervised YOGA program. CAN parameters and RAS mechanism parameters would be assessed before and after the start of the exercise/Yoga program. CAN parameters and RAAS parameters would be assessed using a cardiac autonomic function test battery and measurement of Plasma renin, Serum aldosterone, Angiotensin II, ACE, and Angiotensin (1-7) respectively.
Discussion: The effect of exercise on cardiac autonomic function has been assessed, however, these studies are limited, the strength of evidence is low, and the need for RCT was stressed. How does exercise affect the RAS mechanism? There are limited studies in this area. Further various research has been recommended to study various components of the RAS mechanism. In India, work has been done mainly to assess the effect of the YOGA program on cardiac autonomic function in diabetes mellitus. There are no uniform findings. Further, literature regarding its effect on the RAS mechanism is limited. Internationally, work is focused on various exercise programs, while the focus was on the yoga program in India. There is a need to assess the effect of such a supervised program on the Indian population.
Trial registration: Registered with clinical trial registry of India and registration number is CTRI/2023/05/052268, registered retrospectively Keywords: Diabetes mellitus, cardiac autonomic neuropathy, angiotensin, rennin
Ultrafast optical switching to a heterochiral charge-density wave state
Authors: Ropers Claus , Huang Wayne , Mu Sai , von Witte Gevin , Li Yanshuo , Kurtz Felix , Hung Sheng-Hsiung , Jeng Horng-Tay , Rossnagel Kai , Horstmann Jan
Published: June 2024

Optical control of correlated electronic states promises unprecedented tunability of novel functional materials [1-3]. Tailored optical excitations can steer a system along non-equilibrium pathways to metastable states with specific structural or electronic properties [4-6]. A much-desired feature is the reproducible and ultrafast switching to functional states. The light-induced hidden state of 1T-TaS2, with its strongly enhanced conductivity and exceptionally long lifetime, represents a unique model system for studying the switching of correlated electronic states using femtosecond optical stimuli. [4-7] However, despite intense investigation, the switching mechanism and the structural origins of the distinctive electronic properties of the hidden state have not been fully uncovered. Here, we use surface-sensitive electron diffraction in combination with a femtosecond optical quench to reveal coexistent charge-density wave chiralities as a new structural feature of the hidden state. We find that a single-pulse optical quench produces a state with long-range structural order and different weights of the two chiral enantiomorphs of the charge-density wave. Harnessing a double-pulse optical quench [5, 7-9], we trace the origin of the mixed chirality to the transient electronic excitation of the host crystal. The coexistent long-range-order of both chiralities suggests the presence of extended heterochiral charge-density wave interfaces, which results in a higher-level, fractal-type moiré superstructure. Density functional theory simulations for such a charge-density wave moiré superstructure reveal multiple flat bands, Dirac cones, and a kagome electronic subsystem around the Fermi energy. Our findings shed light on novel electronic properties gained by chiral interface engineering, and create avenues for light-induced moiré superstructures in quasi-two-dimensional materials.
Optimal Lymph node yield for long-term survival in elderly patients with right-sided colon cancer: a large population-based cohort study
Authors: Liu Tianyi , Jiao Shuai , Gao Shan , Shi Yan
Published: June 2024

Background
Although the recommended minimal lymph node yield (LNY) in colon cancer is 12, this standard remains controversial in elderly patients with right-sided colon cancer (RSCC) due to insufficient evidence. This study aims to clarify this issue by assessing the relationship between LNY and long-term survival in elderly patients with RSCC.
Methods
Data from the SEER database (split into 7:3 training and testing sets) and patients from the colorectal surgery departments of two tertiary hospitals in China (validation set) were analyzed. Elderly patients with stages I-III RSCC undergoing resection were included. The correlation between LNY and overall survival (OS) was evaluated by a multivariate model and the application of the restricted cubic spline curve (RCS). The odds ratios (ORs) for stage migration and the hazard ratios (HRs) for OS with increased LNY were estimated using Locally Weighted Scatterplot Smoothing (LOWESS), with structural breakpoints identified using the Chow test.
Results
The distribution of LNY was similar across the training (median: 18, IQR [14, 23]), testing (median: 18, IQR [14, 23]), and validation (median: 17, IQR [14, 20]) sets. Increasing LNY was associated with significantly improved OS in all datasets (Training set: HR = 0.983; Testing set: HR = 0.981; Validation set: HR = 0.944, all P < 0.001) after adjusting for confounders. Cut-point analysis identified an optimal LNY threshold of 18, validated across datasets, effectively discriminating survival probabilities.
Conclusions
A higher LNY is associated with improved survival. Our findings robustly support 18 LNYs as the optimal threshold for assessing the quality of lymph node dissection and prognosis stratification in elderly patients with RSCC.
Mechanical properties and acoustic emission characteristics of basalt fiber reinforced cemented silty sand subjected to freeze-thaw cycles
Authors: Sun Shuang , Liu Xue , Liu Hanbing , Shi Chenglin , Xu Lina , Huang Zhanfang , Sui Yongqiang
Published: June 2024

Freeze-thaw (F-T) cycling was a crucial issue in seasonal frozen zones and it will significantly influence the mechanical properties of soil, which must be strictly considered for subgrade engineering. Therefore, a series of unconfined compression test was conducted to analyze the effects of multiple factors i.e., fiber content, fiber length, curing time and F-T cycles on unconfined compression strength (UCS), as well as find the optimal ratio of fiber reinforced cemented silty sand. Meanwhile, based on the optimal ratio, AE test was adopt to further evaluate the AE characteristic parameters (i.e. cumulative ring count and cumulative energy, energy, amplitude, RA and AF) of fiber reinforced cemented silty sand subjected to F-T cycles, to reveal the F-T damage process. The results showed that the UCS first increased and then decreased with the increase of fiber content, increased with the increase of curing time, decreased with the increase of fiber length and F-T cycles, and stabilized after 6 ~ 10 cycles.. The optimal ratio was 0.2% fiber content, 12 mm fiber length and 14 days of curing. Moreover, AE characteristic parameters had a great correlation with the damage stages. The F-T damage could be divided into three stages by cumulative ring count and cumulative energy. The sudden change in AE amplitude symbolized the transformation of damage stage. The amplitude of 67 dB after 6 F-T cycles could be used as an early failure warning.
Evaluation of the performance of Fe 3 O 4 /MnO 2 hybrid nanozymes with doxorubicin on multicellular structure and their therapeutic management to limit the growth of human breast cancer cells
Authors: Sharifi Majid , Kamalabadi-Farahani Mohammad , Salmani Amir-Abas , Malaki Mahmoud
Published: June 2024

Overwhelming evidence suggests that nanozymes show great promise in cancer therapy due to their stable catalytic properties and cost-effectiveness. However, the diverse responses of nanozymes in therapy have presented challenges. After designing pH-sensitive Fe3O4/MnO2@DOX hybrid nanozymes with catalytic properties, we analyzed their characteristics using various techniques such as SEM, TEM, DLS, XRD, TGA, EDS, etc. We evaluated the nanozymes' toxicity on MCF-7 cells and their spheroids through MTT and flow cytometry assays, while also exploring their synergistic effects with photothermal therapy (PTT). The findings reveal that the 150–270 nm Fe3O4/MnO2@DOX hybrid nanozymes demonstrate stable DOX release and catalytic activity in generating O2 and °OH, effectively inhibiting the growth of MCF-7 cells. It was found that the effective concentration for MCF-7 cells had to be raised from 2.13 to 4.64 µg/mL to inhibit spheroid growth. Because of the toxicity of this concentration on normal cells, using synergistic approaches is crucial to minimize side effects. Also, the results of cytotoxicity mechanism in spheroids highlight the significant impact of PTT with Fe3O4/MnO2@DOX hybrid nanozymes in enhancing pro-inflammatory cytokines like TNF-α, CASP9, CASP7, and CASP3. Ultimately, optimizing the concentration of pH-sensitive hybrid nanozymes with PTT synergistic effects shows great potential for cancer treatment.
Design, Analysis and Comparison of Hybrid and Non-Pneumatic Tires
Authors: Ali Shamsher , Shah Syed Aliyar , Ahmad Moiz , Zain Syed Muhammad , Khan Ahsan Rehman
Published: June 2024

Tires are the only medium that moves a vehicle back and forth while also providing directional stability. This paper provides a comparative study that delves into the contrast between Non-Pneumatic Tires (NPT) and Hybrid Tires, analyzing their respective merits and demerits. Non- pneumatic tires (NPT) emerged as an alternative to traditional tube tires, aiming to mitigate issues such as tube bursts, maintenance, air pressure, and susceptibility to external factors. However, NPTs exhibit drawbacks including limited shock absorption, reduced ride comfort, and elevated costs. In response, Hybrid Tires emerge as a promising solution, offering a balance between the strengths of pneumatic and non-pneumatic designs while addressing the shortcomings of NPTs. By integrating pneumatic elements, Hybrid Tires enhance shock absorption, reduce weight, and improve ride comfort without compromising overall strength. This paper advocates for the superiority of Hybrid Tires over NPTs, presenting them as a viable alternative poised to advance the realm of tire technology toward greater efficiency, safety, and sustainability.
Primary Tubercular Osteomyelitis of Lateral Orbital Wall: A Rare Presentation
Authors: Sharma Vandana , gupta vikasdeep , kaur harmeet , raj anuradha
Published: June 2024

Osteomyelitis of facial bones is a very rare presentation. Primary presentation of tubercular osteomyelitis in facial bones is even rarer. We are reporting a case of zygomatic tubercular osteomyelitis presenting in a very innocuous way. Identification of such cases in early stage can help in timely intervention. A 30 years old female presented to Ophthalmology Out Patient Department (OPD) with complain of a mildly painful nodule over left lower eyelid, turning into an ulcer. After appropriate investigation, diagnosis of primary tubercular osteomyelitis of left zygomatic bone was made and patient underwent debridement and anti-tubercular treatment. Patient has healed satisfactorily, with no sinus formation, no residual bony on filtration and good cosmetic results. Early diagnosis and timely management of such cases can avoid extensive involvement of bone, thereby reducing the subsequent morbidity of the patients.
Characterization of exosome-mediated propagation of systemic inflammatory responses into the Central Nervous System
Authors: Kodali Mahesh Chandra , Salim Chinnu , Ismael Saifudeen , Lebovitz Sarah Grace , Lin Geng , Liao Francesca-fang
Published: June 2024

The mechanisms through which systemic inflammation exerts its effect on the CNS are still not completely understood. Exosomes are small (30 to 100 nanometers) membrane-bound extracellular vesicles released by most of the mammalian cells. Exosomes play a vital role in cell-to-cell communication. This includes regulation of inflammatory responses by shuttling mRNAs, miRNAs, and cytokines both locally and systemically to the neighboring as well as distant cells to further modulate their transcriptional and/or translational states and affect the functional phenotype of those cells that have taken up these exosomes. The role of circulating blood exosomes leading to neuroinflammation during systemic inflammatory conditions was further characterized. Serum-derived exosomes from LPS-challenged mice (SDEL) were freshly isolated from the sera of the mice that were earlier treated with LPS and used to study SDEL effects on neuroinflammation. Exosomes isolated from the sera of the mice injected with saline were used as a control. In-vitro studies showed that the SDEL upregulate pro-inflammatory cytokine gene expression in the murine cell lines of microglia (BV-2), astrocytes (C8-D1A), and cerebral microvascular endothelial cells (bEnd.3). To further study their effects in-vivo, SDEL were intravenously injected into normal adult mice. Elevated mRNA expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines was observed in the brains of SDEL recipient mice. Proteomic analysis of the SDEL confirmed the increased expression of inflammatory cytokines in them. Together, these results further demonstrate and strengthen the novel role of peripheral circulating exosomes in causing neuroinflammation during systemic inflammatory conditions.
Effects Of Different Frequencies Of Concurrent Training On Cardiometabolic Risk Factors In Young Adults With Overweight And Obesity: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Wu Yigao , Wang Jiacheng , Liu Ying , Li Youyou , Li Yixuan , zhang Yunqing , Yan Xu , Wu Min , Li Yanchun
Published: June 2024

BackgroundCardiometabolic risk factors are a significant health concern, particularly among young adults with overweight and obesity. Concurrent training, which combines aerobic and strength exercise, has been shown to improve cardiometabolic health. However, the effects of different training frequencies are not well understood.MethodForty-three participants (mean age: 19 years) were randomly assigned to either the CT-2 group (concurrent training twice per week, n = 22) or the CT-3 group (concurrent training three times per week, n = 21). The training regimen included 40 minutes of strength training followed by 40 minutes of aerobic exercises. Baseline and eight-week follow-up assessments included anthropometric measurements, body composition analysis, cardiovascular and metabolic parameters, VO2 max, and 1RM squat strength.ResultsBoth the CT-2 and CT-3 groups showed significant improvements in body mass, body fat percentage, fat mass, android fat mass, and gynoid fat mass (p < 0.01). However, the reduction in android/gynoid fat mass ratio was significant only in the CT-3 group (p < 0.05). Additionally, fasting glucose, fasting insulin, total cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL-C, LDL-C, TC/HDL-C, HOMA-IR, HOMA-IS, and HOMA-β levels decreased significantly in both groups post-intervention (p < 0.01). Increases in VO2 max (CT-2: p < 0.05; CT-3: p < 0.01) and 1RM squat strength (CT-2: p < 0.01; CT-3: p < 0.05) were also observed. Comparing the two groups, CT-3 group demonstrated more significant improvements in HDL-C (p < 0.05) and HOMA-IS (p < 0.05).ConclusionThese findings highlight the effectiveness of concurrent training in improving cardiometabolic risk factors in young adults with overweight and obesity. Both twice-weekly and three times-weekly training significantly improved these risk factors, with higher frequency training providing additional benefits.
Eccentric exercise-induced delayed onset trunk muscle soreness alters high-density surface EMG- torque relationships and lumbar kinematics
Authors: Arvanitidis Michail , Jiménez-Grande David , Haouidji-Javaux Nadège , Falla Deborah , Martinez-Valdes Eduardo
Published: June 2024

We aimed to assess high-density surface electromyography (HDsEMG)-torque relationships in the presence of delayed onset trunk muscle soreness (DOMS) and the effect of these relationships on torque steadiness (TS) and lumbar movement during concentric/eccentric submaximal trunk extension contractions. Twenty healthy individuals attended three laboratory sessions (24 hours apart). HDsEMG signals were recorded unilaterally from the thoracolumbar erector spinae with two 64-electrode grids. HDsEMG-torque signal relationships were explored via coherence (0-5Hz) and cross-correlation analyses. Principal component analysis was used for HDsEMG-data dimensionality reduction and improvement of HDsEMG-torque-based estimations. DOMS did not reduce either concentric or eccentric trunk extensor muscle strength. However, in the presence of DOMS, improved TS, alongside an altered HDsEMG-torque relationship and kinematic changes were observed, in a contraction-dependent manner. For eccentric trunk extension, improved TS was observed, with greater lumbar flexion movement and a reduction in δ-band HDsEMG-torque coherence and cross-correlation. For concentric trunk extensions, TS improvements were observed alongside reduced thoracolumbar sagittal movement. DOMS does not seem to impair the ability to control trunk muscle force, however, perceived soreness induced changes in lumbar movement and muscle recruitment strategies, which could alter motor performance if the exposure to pain is maintained in the long term.
Experimental Investigations of Surface Roughness Effects on Aerodynamic Performance of Axial Compressor Blades
Authors: Zenouz Reza Taghavi , Abiri Seyyed Mohammad Mahdi , Khosravizadeh Mohammad Reza
Published: June 2024

Fluid dynamic of axial compressor blades under different surface roughness levels is experimentally investigated in this research work. An open circuit wind tunnel has been prepared for the test model of a linear cascade of axial compressor blades. Reynolds number ranged between 100000 and 300000 and free turbulence intensity was 2%. Four different roughness levels, ranged between\(10.96 \text{a}\text{n}\text{d} 68.54\mu m\) besides smooth surface case were examined. Hot wire anemometry has been undertaken to extract velocity profiles to distinguish boundary layer type in terms of laminar, transitional or turbulent regimes, and also to investigate occurring laminar separation bubble. Total pressure loss coefficient was also calculated for different Reynolds numbers and surface roughness levels. The results showed that the boundary layer remains in fully laminar regime for flows with Reynolds numbers less than about 150000 for smooth surface case. At the lowest test Reynolds number adding surface roughness caused the total pressure loss to decrease. Highest Reynolds number was accompanied by the lowest losses for the smooth surface. Increasing the surface roughness caused losses to increase at this Reynolds number. Furthermore, roughening the surface caused the bubble to shrink, and transition point to shift upstream accompanied by reduction in pressure loss.
Community acceptance of a novel malaria intervention, Attractive Targeted Sugar Baits, in a ATSB Zambia phase III trial
Authors: Orange Erica , Arnzen Annie , Muluma Chuma , Akalalambili Situmbeko , Tobolo Titus , Ndalama Frank , Chishya Chama , Saili Kochelani , Ashton Ruth A. , Eisele Thomas P. , Yukich Joshua , Kyomuhangi Irene , Miller John , Silumbe Kafula , Chanda Javan , Hamainza Busiku , Wagman Joseph , Slutsker Laurence , Burkot Thomas R , Littrell Megan
Published: June 2024

Background
Community acceptance is an important criterion to assess in community trials, particularly for new tools that require coverage and use by a target population. Installed on exterior walls of household structures, the attractive targeted sugar bait (ATSB) is a new vector control tool designed to attract and kill mosquitos. ATSBs were evaluated in Western Zambia during a two-year cluster randomized controlled trial to assess the efficacy of ATSBs in reducing malaria transmission. Community acceptance of ATSBs was critical for successful trial implementation.
Methods
A community engagement strategy outlined activities and key messages to promote acceptance. Annual cross-sectional surveys, conducted during the peak transmission period, assessed households for presence of ATSBs and participating households’ perceived benefits, concerns, and willingness to use ATSBs. Focus group discussions and in-depth interviews conducted at the end of each ATSB station deployment period, obtained a range of perceptions, attitudes, and household experiences with ATSB stations, as well as potential shifts in ITN use as a function of ATSB deployment.
Results
Community acceptance of ATSBs was high with ATSB coverage > 90%; >70% of households reported perceived benefits; and < 10% reported safety concerns. Common facilitators of acceptance included the desire for protection against malaria and reduction of mosquitos, trust in health initiatives, and understanding of the product. Common barriers to acceptance included misconceptions of the products impact on mosquitos, continued cases of malaria, association with satanism, and damage to household structures. Although ITN use was generally high, qualitative data suggest additional research is needed to further explore ways in which ATSB deployment might be associated with shifts in ITN use.
Discussion
Future use of the ATSB intervention will likely require supporting activities that foster community acceptance before, during and after the intervention is introduced. Additional research may be needed to understand the impact of less community engagement on ATSB station coverage, ATSB station perception, and ITN use.
Conclusion
There was high acceptance of ATSB stations during the trial in Western Zambia. Continuous and intense community engagement efforts contributed towards sustained ATSB coverage and trust in the product. Acceptance of ATSBs during programmatic delivery requires further research.
“Music Creates Evil Genius?”——A Study of the Relationship Between Music Listening and Malevolent Creativity
Authors: Zhang Yunzi , Gong Zhe
Published: June 2024

Music, composed of lyrics and melodies, has an important effect on human emotion, cognition, and behaviors. Researchers have conducted studies on music listening about creativity mainly from the two perspectives of music preference and music exposure, but the dark side of creativity - malevolent creativity - has not been addressed yet. Based on these studies, we focus on three aggression-related music: heavy metal music, rock music, and electronic music, whose relationship with malevolent creativity was verified in our studies. In Study 1, we intended to verify the relationship between aggression-related music preference and malevolent creativity by using questionnaires. In study 2, we further explore the causal relationship between aggression-related music exposure and malevolent creativity through behavioral experiments. Moreover, we also wonder about the internal mechanism. Our results found a strong correlation between aggression-related music (music preference & music exposure) and malevolent creativity, especially electronic music. Meanwhile, the mediation mechanism of negative emotions was not validated. Finally, the main effect of lyrics was confirmed. The negative lyrics group had significantly higher malevolent creativity than the positive lyrics group. The interaction between lyrics and melody on the induction of malevolent creativity showed that there was no significant difference in malevolent creativity across the four music genres under negative lyrics, but electronic music and heavy metal music stood out under positive lyrics. The study's implications extend to understanding the potential dark side of music and its influence on creativity.
The endotoxin content of PM 2.5 and its relationship with oxidative stress biomarkers in urine after subchronic inhalation exposure in a rat model
Authors: Baldriche-Acosta Jessica , Uribe-Ramírez Marisela , Narváez-Morales Juana , De Vizcaya-Ruiz Andrea , Barbier Olivier Christophe , Aztatzi-Aguilar Octavio Gamaliel
Published: June 2024

Currently, our understanding of the impact of particulate matter on nephrotoxicity is limited. Oxidative stress has been identified as a mechanism involved in the adverse health effects due to exposure to this air pollutant, to their inorganic, organic, and aerobiological constituents (e.g. endotoxin). The goal of the present study was to correlate the endotoxin content of particulate matter with urinary oxidative stress biomarkers to explain early decline in renal dysfunction. Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats exposed to subchronic inhalation to particles less 2.5 micrometers in aerodynamic diameter, also known as fine particles or PM2.5 (8 weeks, 4 days/week, 5 hours/day). The control group was exposed to filtered air. Biomarkers of oxidative stress were assessed in urine samples per week harvested by metabolic cage. The assessed oxidative stress biomarkers were methylglyoxal, non-esterified fatty acids, malondialdehyde, advanced oxidative protein products, arginase, myeloperoxidase, glutathione-S-transferase, and gamma-glutamyl transferase. Subchronic exposure to PM2.5 increased five evaluated biomarkers in urine. Endotoxin content in PM2.5 positively correlated with urinary oxidative stress biomarkers evaluated. Positively correlation of urinary oxidative stress biomarkers was found with urinary early kidney damage biomarkers (e.g., β-2-microglobulin and cystatin-C). The subchronic inhalation exposure to PM2.5 induce the presence of oxidative stress reflected in urine, based on statistical correlations, suggests early kidney damage related to endotoxin content.
Knowledge, Attitude and Practice Regarding Pulmonary Tuberculosis as an Occupational Health Disease Among Miners at Neelkanth in Ndola, Zambia
Authors: SIMWANZA NIZA REAN , Mwanakasale Victor
Published: June 2024

Zambia is one of the many countries in sub-Saharan Africa that is burdened by tuberculosis (TB). The Zambia National TB prevalence survey 2013–2014 estimated the prevalence rate of all forms of bacteriologically confirmed Pulmonary Tuberculosis (PTB) among those aged 15years and above to be at 638 per 100000 populations which is higher than the prevalence rate in high TB burden countries such as Pakistan and Nigeria. Mine workers in Southern Africa including Zambia tend to have poor living and working conditions thereby having increased risk of TB and in addition working in the mines increases exposure to silica dust leading them to developing silicosis which increases their risk of developing PTB. The general objective of this study was to assess the knowledge, attitude and practice regarding TB as an occupational health disease among miners at Neelkanth mine in Ndola.
This was a cross sectional study that assessed the Knowledge, Attitude and Practices of miners regarding TB as an occupational health disease. The study was conducted at Neelkanth mine in Bwana M’kubwa area, Ndola rural. Study participants were miners. The calculated sample size for the study was 384. A questionnaire was used to collect data from study participants. Data was entered and analysed using Spss version 16.0, Pearson chi squared test was performed and the output was then analysed further using multivariate logistic regression at 95% confidence interval.
This study resulted in a total of 357 study participants instead of the calculated 384 that were enrolled into the study, due to the fact that 27 questionnaires were incomplete and therefore eliminated from the study. The difference of knowledge levels about TB as an occupational health hazard and sex (male/female) was very good and in relation to age groups it was very good as well. The mean age was calculated to be 32.9 (standard deviation [SD]: 7.4) years, with the majority of participants aged between 18-40years. Comparing the participants that could define TB to those that could not, those that could define were 1.84 times more likely to have good knowledge levels (CI95: 1.17, 2.91). Likewise, participants were 1.66 times more likely to know preventive measure of TB as an occupational health hazard compared to those who did not know (CI95: 1.18, 2.32).
This study revealed through multivariate regression analysis of the results that there is a significant association between knowledge, attitude, practice and TB as an occupational health disease. These findings highlight the need for TB education amongst miners.
Critical Fluctuations as an Early Warning Signal of Sports Injuries? Applying the Complex Dynamic Systems Toolbox to Football Monitoring Data
Authors: Neumann Niklas D. , Brauers Jur J. , Yperen Nico W. Van , Linde Mees Van der , Lemmink Koen A.P.M. , Brink Michel S. , Hasselman Fred , Ha Ruud J.R. Den
Published: June 2024

Background
There has been an increasing interest in the development and prevention of sports injuries from a complex dynamic systems perspective. From this perspective, injuries may occur following critical fluctuations in the psychophysiological state of an athlete. Our objective was to quantify these so-called Early Warning Signals (EWS) to determine their predictive validity for injuries. The sample consisted of 23 professional youth football (soccer) players. Self-reports of psychological and physiological factors as well as data from GPS sensors were gathered on every training and match day over two competitive seasons, which resulted in an average of 339 observations per player (range = 155–430). We calculated the Dynamic Complexity (DC) index of these data, representing a metric of critical fluctuations. Next, we used this EWS to predict injuries based on different mechanisms (traumatic and overuse) and duration.
Results
Results showed a significant peak of DC in 31% of the incurred injuries, regardless of mechanism and duration, in the seven data points (roughly one and a half weeks) before the injury. The warning signal exhibited a specificity of 94%, that is, correctly classifying non-injury instances. We followed up on this promising result with additional calculations to account for the naturally imbalanced data (fewer injuries than non-injuries). The relatively low F1 we obtained (0.08) suggests that the model's overall ability to discriminate between injuries and non-injuries is rather poor, due to the high false positive rate.
Conclusion
By detecting critical fluctuations preceding one-third of the injuries, this study provided support for the complex systems theory of injuries. Furthermore, it suggests that increasing critical fluctuations may be seen as an EWS on which practitioners can intervene. Yet, the relatively high false positive rate on the entire data set, including periods without injuries, suggests critical fluctuations may also precede transitions to other (e.g., stronger) states. Future research should therefore dig deeper into the meaning of critical fluctuations in the psychophysiological states of athletes.
Longitudinal Neuroanatomical Increases from Early to One-Year Postpartum
Authors: Dufford Alexander , Patterson Genevieve , Kim Pilyoung
Published: June 2024

Preclinical studies have provided causal evidence that the postpartum period involves regional neuroanatomical changes in ‘maternal’ brain regions to support the transition to offspring caregiving. Few studies, in humans, have examined neuroanatomical changes from early to one-year postpartum with longitudinal neuroimaging data and their association with postpartum mood changes. In this study, we examined longitudinal changes in surface morphometry (cortical thickness and surface area) in regions previously implicated in the transition to parenthood. We also examined longitudinal volumetric neuroanatomical changes in three subcortical regions of the maternal brain: the hippocampus, amygdala, and ventral diencephalon. Twenty-four participants underwent longitudinal structural magnetic resonance imaging at 2–4 weeks and 1 year postpartum. Cortical thickness increased from early to one-year postpartum in the left (p = .003, Bonferroni corrected) and right (p = .02, Bonferroni corrected) superior frontal gyrus. No significant increases (or decreases) were observed in these regions for surface area. Volumetric increases, across the postpartum period, were found in the left amygdala (p = .001, Bonferroni corrected) and right ventral diencephalon (p = .01, Bonferroni corrected). An exploratory analysis of depressive symptoms found reductions in depressive symptoms from early postpartum to one-year postpartum were associated with greater cortical thickness in the superior frontal gyrus for both the left (p = .02) and right (p = .02) hemispheres. The findings expand our evidence of the neuroanatomical changes that occur across the postpartum period in humans and motivate future studies to examine how mood changes across this period are associated with cortical thickness of the superior frontal gyrus.
The Effect of Dynamic Response Characteristics in Different Confining Pressures of Damping Ratio and Shear Modulus of Sandy Soil
Authors: Kennedy Charles
Published: June 2024

This study investigates the influence of confining pressure on the small-strain shear modulus and damping ratio of sandy soil through cyclic direct simple shear laboratory tests. Undisturbed sandy soil samples were collected from Ibagwa, Nigeria and tested under isotropic confining pressures ranging from 100 kPa to 400 kPa. Shear modulus and damping ratio were measured as a function of shear strain at each confinement level. The results showed that the small-strain shear modulus (Gmax) increased significantly with rising confining pressure, indicating that shear modulus exhibited clear pressure-sensitive behavior. In contrast, the maximum damping ratio (Dmax) was found to decrease progressively with increasing confining pressure. These trends were consistent with established theoretical understandings. Experimental stress-strain data correlated reasonably well with common shear modulus and damping degradation models, validating their predictive capabilities. The pressure-dependent nature of Gmax and Dmax provided fundamental insights into the dynamic behavior of sandy soils under varying effective stress conditions representative of different burial depths. Quantifying these evolving small-strain properties offered essential input parameters for numerical modeling of seismic wave propagation and site response analysis. Understanding variable shear modulus and damping ratio also aided performance-based evaluation of energy dissipation capacity and cyclic loading effects on foundations. The trends demonstrated reinforced the need for geotechnical earthquake engineering analyses and designs to consider changing soil properties relative to stress state - an important knowledge gap addressed. Overall, the study contributed valuable measured dynamic parameters and highlighted the significance of confining pressure in governing the seismic response characteristics of sandy soil.
Flotation foam image segmentation based on highlight overlap correction and multiple edge constraints
Authors: Yang Lirong , Sun Cong
Published: June 2024

Bubble size contains important indicative information, which is closely related to flotation production conditions and process indicators. However, due to the different sizes of bubbles in the flotation process and the complexity of the shooting light environment, satisfactory results cannot be obtained from the existing image segmentation methods. In this paper, an improved watershed algorithm based on multiple edge constraints and highlight collegiate positivity is proposed. First, three algorithms are designed to extract and classify foam highlights of the same size, namely, small foam, medium foam and large foam, and special overlap correction and fusion are applied to these three foams. Then, the bubble boundaries are extracted using the Laplace operator, and the segmentation line is constrained with a positive and inverse 45-degree gradient images as multiple edges to ensure the integrity of the segmentation line. Finally, the fused highlight markers are used to deoptimize the external constraint line for watershed segmentation. The tests show that the method is suitable for multiple sizes of fuzzy edges and foam image segmentation. The experimental results show that the accuracy and robustness of the proposed segmentation algorithm are significantly better than other methods, and the proposed method is suitable for foam image segmentation with fuzzy edges and diverse sizes.
Fractionation of stable carbon isotopes during UV degradation of toluene: Implications for the quantitative characterization of VOCs in the Atmosphere
Authors: Simu Sharmine Akter , Chikaraishi Yoshito
Published: June 2024

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are major atmospheric pollutants commonly derived from the fossil fuel combustion. Concentration of VOCs in the atmosphere and its dynamics have widely been used to evaluate their source, formation processes, residence time, and photochemical reactions involved in the atmosphere. However, little is known about the effect of UV degradation of VOCs during their transport from the source to the study area, which always reduces accuracy in the understanding of VOCs characteristics in the atmosphere. In the present study, we investigated the fractionation of carbon isotopes (13C/12C) of toluene (Methyl benzene) during UV degradation (254 nm UV-C), as a basic information for accurately evaluating the source and delivery of toluene, a common VOCs, in the atmosphere. The results show that degradation ratio of toluene is correlated with the elevation of isotope ratios (0.99 of isotopic fractionation factor, α), resulting in that the α observed allows us to quantify the original amount of toluene in the potential source and its degradation ratio in the atmospheric transfer. This correlation thus can be useful for the quantitative illustration of environmental behavior of toluene (e.g., excretion sources, transfer, UV degradation, deposition) in the atmosphere and biosphere.