bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Poiseuille Flow in Tubes of Bipolar Cross Sections: An exact hemodynamic analysis for potential mechanisms of aortopathy in bicuspid aortic valve
Authors: Ahn Doyeol 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Steady blood flow, or Poiseuille flow, through compressed or defective blood vessels is a critical issue in hemodynamics, particularly in cardiovascular studies. This research explores a tube with a bipolar cross-section, which simulates the geometry of a bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) during an oval systolic opening. The BAV, which typically features two cusps instead of the usual three found in normal tricuspid configurations, introduces unique hemodynamic challenges. This condition, being the most prevalent congenital heart defect, increases the risk of aortic dilation and dissection among patients. A bipolar cross-sectional analysis provides a more accurate geometric approximation for modeling flow through these atypical valve shapes, crucial for understanding the specific fluid dynamics associated with BAV. In this study, we derived an exact solution for the governing equations of Poiseuille flow within a bipolar cross-sectional tube. The results include the velocity field, flow rate, and wall shear stress (WSS). The velocity profiles for the BAV show a remarkable agreement with those obtained in previous studies using coherent multi-scale simulations. These profiles consistently demonstrate the presence of a jet-like flow structure within the fluid, a feature that is notably absent in the tricuspid aortic valve (TAV) scenarios. The analysis reveals that at the center of the entrance, the blood flow velocity for the bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) is significantly higher than for the tricuspid aortic valve (TAV). However, the BAV bood flow velocity decreases more rapidly towards the vessel wall, creating a steeper vertical velocity gradient. This results in higher wall shear stress for the BAV. Additionally, the WSS, which is inversely proportional to \(\:sin\left({\xi\:}_{*}\right)\), where \(\:{\xi\:}_{*}\) represents the bipolar coordinate at the wall boundary, exceeds that found in a circular cylindrical tube with an equivalent diameter. In cases of aortic valve stenosis, where \(\:{\xi\:}_{*}\) approaches \(\:\pi\:\), the WSS increases very rapidly. This elevated WSS, commonly observed in BAV patients, may detrimentally impact the aortic wall in these structurally abnormal valves, particularly within the ascending aorta.
The interplay of environmental and social factors influences balancing selection: 6Pgdh in bulb mites
Authors: Unnikrishnan Pranav , Spaeth Anna , Trojańska Magdalena , Babik Wieslaw , Plesnar-Bielak Agata 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Balancing selection, the process by which multiple alleles are maintained in a population, can occur through genotype by environment interactions. The polymorphism of 6Pgdh in bulb mites involves two alleles, S and F, which have opposing effect on male reproductive success. While S-bearing males have a reproductive advantage and the S allele fixes in the laboratory populations, polymorphism is regularly observed in natural populations. We hypothesise that 6Pgdh is under balancing selection in bulb mites, driven by fluctuations of temperature and sexual selection intensity. This study uses experimental evolution to track allele frequency changes over 13 generations under different temperatures (12 °C and 18 °C) and sexual selection intensities (equal and female-biased sex ratios). The results show a significant increase in F allele frequency under higher sexual selection intensity at 12 °C. This suggests that individuals with the F allele gain a reproductive advantage at lower temperatures, and 6Pgdh polymorphism is maintained through a three-way interaction genotype x abiotic (temperature) x social environment. However, in another experiment we did not find significant associations between male genotype and reproductive success across different temperatures. The complex interplay between environmental factors and social dynamics in maintaining genetic polymorphism highlights that multiple factors can interact in driving balancing selection.
See Me, Hear Me: Racial Discrimination Among Women Seeking Breast Cancer Care
Authors: Oshry Lauren , Lederman Ruth , Gagnon Haley , Fikre Tsion , Gundersen Daniel , Revette Anna , Odai-Afotey Ashley , Kantor Olga , Hershman Dawn , Crew Katherine , Keating Nancy , Freedman Rachel , Ko Naomi 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Discrimination can contribute to worse health outcomes, but its prevalence in breast cancer is not well studied. We aimed to understand how women with stage I-III breast cancer faced discrimination in health care and everyday settings through a cross-sectional survey. 296 women, 178 (60%) Non-Hispanic White (NHW), 76 (26%) Non-Hispanic Black (NHB), and 42 (14%) Hispanic participated. NHB women reported significantly more discrimination in everyday life compared to NHW women (score 20.1 vs 16.1, p<.001) and Hispanic women (score 20.1 vs 16.0, p<.001). In the health care setting, NHB had statistically more frequent reports of being ignored (23.7% vs. 5.6%), treated with less respect (21.1% vs. 7.3%), and treated with less courtesy (18.7% vs. 6.2%; all P=<.001) when compared to NHW women. NHB women experience a higher degree of discrimination both inside and outside of health care. Further research to understand discrimination on breast cancer outcomes is warranted.
Dihaploid plant production of red beet (Beta vulgaris subsp. vulgaris), homozygosity evaluation using isoenzymatic and NGS methods
Authors: Kiszczak Waldemar , Burian Maria , Malinowski Tadeusz , Podwyszyńska Małgorzata , Kowalska Urszula , Domaciuk Marcin , Górecka Krystyna 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Conditions of in vitro gynogenesis process in red beet was examined. A significant influence of the genotype on the gynogenesis process was demonstrated. Of the eight genotypes, 58.3% planted ovules regenerated embryo-like structures in breeding line 411, 2.1% in RA-10, RA-11, RA-12 breeding lines and 0.9% embryo-like structures in ‘Opolski’. For the gynogenesis induction, B5 medium containing 0.1 mgl-1 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid was the most effective from all tested media. On this medium, the highest number of gynogenetic embryo-like structures was obtained. Most of the plants were regenerated on MS medium supplemented with 30 g l-1 sucrose, 0.2 mg l-1 6-benzylaminopurine and 1 mg l-1 indole-3-acetic acid. Thirty nine percent of the regenerated plants acclimatized. Cytometric evaluation of the gynogenetic plants of four tested genotypes revealed that in three genotypes, 100% of tested plants were haploid. Plants showed diploid ploidy level in one genotype. Isoenzymatic analysis of gynogenetic plants demonstrated that 95% and 70% of examined populations were homozygotic for the phosphohexose isomerase isoenzyme and the aspartato aminotransferase isoenzyme, respectively. During the next generation sequencing, 93% of reads were successfully mapped, from which 83–85% were mapped in pairs. For 15% of pairs it was clear that the obtained sequence was fully homozygous, the rest of the readings were not unambiguous, but similar to the sequence of a homozygous base pair system.
The potential of a hygiene-based message, preferred learning modalities, and “¡Lubricarte, Liberarte, Lavarte+!” or L 3 + for the prevention of HIV/STI in Peru
Authors: Timmons-Vendryes Ricky , Asca Jesus Cisneros , Swendeman Dallas , Silva-Santisteban Alfonso , Konda Kelika , Bazargan Shahzrad , Clark Jesse , Comulada W. Scott , Cáceres Carlos , Morris Franceska Leon 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background: Hygiene-based practices of lubrication, genital cleansing, postcoital urination, and rectal douching are common behaviors among populations at higher risk of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/sexually transmitted infections (STI). Yet, the role these behaviors have on HIV/STI risk has not been well elucidated, especially among transgender women (TW) and gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM). Additionally, advances in biomedical strategies have heralded a new era of HIV/AIDS prevention that may be accompanied by behavioral changes that lead to decreases in condom usage and subsequent changes to STI sequelae. Nevertheless, many people at higher risk are not benefiting equally from these options, strengthening the need for more sustainable, evidence-based methods.
Objectives: This study explored the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of hygiene-based practices, proven preventative methods, and preferred learning methods among Peruvian TW and GBMSM. Methods: 30 interviews and 50 questionnaires were conducted with TW (N=35), GBMSM (N=35), healthcare providers (N=5), and key community informants (N=5).
Results: Most participants perceived hygiene-based practices to be common behaviors and a significant aspect of sexual wellbeing. Educational materials utilizing social media and hosting in-person events were also viewed favorably, with value to enhancing HIV/STI knowledge.
Conclusions: Several barriers to autonomy surfaced in the data, including systemic disparities to adequate HIV/STI services, top vs. bottom social dynamics, and PrEP accessibility issues. Continued work is needed to address the barriers to the acceptability, feasibility, and potential efficacy of hygiene-based practices, biomedical/barrier strategies, and L3+.
Effect of spraying and stirring on the formation and decomposition of CH4 hydrates in the presence of copper foam and 1,3-DIOX
Authors: Mi Xinwei , Li Yao , Wang Lanyun , Xu Yongliang , Gao Yibo , Lv Zecheng , Wu Zhengyan , Zhang Kun 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Gas hydrates are considered as a safe and efficient method for gas storage and transportation. However, slow formation rate and limited storage capacity hinder the industrial application of this technology. In order to accelerate CH4 hydrates formation and enhance CH4 capacity, spraying and stirring method were applied on the kinetic formation of CH4 hydrates in the presence of copper foam (CF) and 5.56 mol% 1,3-dioxolane (1,3-DIOX) under 2.0 MPa to 4.0 MPa. The results show that adding 1,3-DIOX not only can shorten the induction times but also increase the gas consumption, and the CF materials also had a positive effect on the kinetics of CH4 hydrates formation. The 60PPI CF + 1,3-DIOX performed the best on the induction times of only 12.45 min, being reduced by 66.8% compared with that without CF. Comparing to the pure water, 60PPI CF single system and the 1,3-DIOX single system, the 60PPI CF + 1,3-DIOX exhibited the highest gas consumption of 0.1733 mol/molH2O, increased by 261.04%, 136.75% and 74%, respectively. Furthermore, based on programmed heating, the decomposition process of CH4 hydrates was investigated. The results show that the CH4 hydrates formed by the spraying method decompose more easily during the heating process, while the CH4 hydrates formed by the stirring method has the highest stability. Moreover, the CH4 hydrates formed in CF + 1.3-DIOX system can exert a self-preservation effect during the early stage of decomposition and inhibit the initial decomposition of CH4 hydrates to some extent. These results provide a reference for the practical application of hydrate solid-phase safe storage and transportation of gases.
Effect of Different Water and Fertilizer Application Patterns on the Growth and Physiological Characteristics of Greenhouse Tomatoes
Authors: Lyu Xiaona , Hassan Hasnuri Mat , Zan Yaling , Tan Jiongrui 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

China, the largest global producer and consumer of greenhouse tomatoes, faces significant challenges related to water shortages and inefficient use of water and fertilizers, which hinder sustainable agricultural development. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of different water and fertilizer application patterns on the growth and physiological characteristics of greenhouse tomatoes. A pot experiment was conducted at Yuncheng University in Shanxi Province, using three irrigation levels: I1 (90%-100% field water holding capacity), I2 (72%-80% field water holding capacity), and I3 (54%-60% field water holding capacity). Four fertilizer application patterns were tested: C1 (soluble organic and chemical fertilizer), C2 (soluble chemical fertilizers only), C3 (sheep manure and chemical fertilizer), and C4 (soluble organic fertilizers only). The results demonstrated significant positive relationships between leaf area (LA), leaf SPAD value, dry matter, and fruit dry matter with the fruit yield of greenhouse tomatoes. The average fruit yield per plant was 2.47 kg under I1, 2.32 kg under I2, and 2.01 kg under I3. Among the fertilizer treatments, C1 was most effective in enhancing LA, stem growth, leaf SPAD, and dry matter of greenhouse tomatoes, showing the greatest dry matter and root-shoot ratio under I2. Conversely, C3 resulted in the highest water consumption at each growth stage but yielded the lowest dry matter and fruit yield under I2. C2 showed the highest water consumption during the seedling, fruit enlargement, and harvest stages under I3 yet consistently produced lower fruit yield and dry matter mass compared to C1. Water Use Efficiency (WUE) significantly decreased with increased irrigation. Under the same irrigation level, WUE followed the order C1 > C2 > C4 > C3, while fruit yield followed the order C1 > C2 > C3 > C4. Overall, the I1C1 treatment was most conducive to promoting fruit yield (2.59 kg per plant), while I2C1 could achieve water-saving greenhouse tomato production in the semi-arid areas of China.
Construction and Validation of Clinical Prediction Model for Gallstone Columnar Chart
Authors: Li Wanzhi , Wu Lizhi 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to develop a nomogram prediction model to predict the exact probability of gallstones in the general population.
Methods: We divided 2282 individuals undergoing physical examinations into a training set (n=1708) and a validation set (n=574). We collected and analyzed their clinical characteristics and liver and gallbladder ultrasound results. Factors for constructing the prediction model were screened through univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis, and an interactive nomogram prediction model was created based on these factors. The performance of the prediction model was evaluated using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, calibration curve, decision curve, and clinical impact curve.
Results: Multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that age, HDL, high TBA (TBA ≥ 2.3μmol/L), RDW, and high NE% (NE% ≥ 58.2%) were independent risk factors for gallstones (P<0.05). An interactive nomogram prediction model was constructed based on these risk factors. Statistical evaluation showed that the model had moderate predictive value [area under the curve (AUC)>0.7] and good calibration, as well as good clinical benefit and impact. Applying the model to the validation set showed that the prediction effect of the validation set was similar to that of the training set (AUC=0.712), indicating that the model’s prediction results were relatively stable and had certain clinical application value.
Conclusion: This nomogram clinical prediction model has good practical application value and generalizability. It can help screen individuals at risk for gallstones, assist medical workers in formulating personalized examination plans, reduce medical costs, save medical resources, and promote the development of public health.
Estimating the impact of airport wildlife hazards management on realized wildlife strike risk
Authors: Altringer Levi , Begier Michael J. , Washburn Jenny E. , Shwiff Stephanie A. 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Collisions between wildlife and aircraft, commonly referred to as wildlife strikes or bird strikes, are rare events that pose considerable safety and economic risks to the aviation industry. Given the potentially dramatic consequences of such events, airports scheduled for passenger service are required to conduct wildlife hazard assessments and implement wildlife hazard management plans for the purpose of mitigating wildlife strike risk. The evaluation of such management, however, is complicated by imperfect reporting systems that mediate the relationship between realized wildlife strike risk and wildlife strike metrics. In this paper, we shed light on such phenomena by investigating the staggered adoption of a federal wildlife hazards management program at joint-use airports across the contiguous United States. This strategic research design allowed us to exploit variation in both management presence across airports, over time as well as variation in the quality of wildlife strike reporting within airports. As hypothesized, we found that wildlife hazards management intervention has a significant impact on the quality of reporting, as evidenced by a substantial increase in the number of civil strikes reported per 5,000 movements. Where pre-existing reporting mechanisms were more robust, however, we found that wildlife hazards management had a significant impact on realized wildlife strike risk as evidenced by a decrease in strike-induced costs to military aircraft. Overall, we found that estimated economic benefits of the studied airport wildlife hazards management program were 7 times greater than the costs over the management period. Our results have important implications for the measurement of wildlife strike risk and the management of wildlife hazards at airports, as well as important insights pertaining to the use of observational data for causal inference, particularly in the context of risk management.
Association between Physical Activity, Weight-adjusted Waist Index, and All-cause Mortality in Chinese Older Adults:A National Community-Based Cohort Study
Authors: REN Kexin , TAO Yuan , WANG Meihong 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

This study aims to explore interactions between physical activity and weight-adjusted waist index (WWI), as well as their effects on elderly health. Data from the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS) for 2011–2018 included 7,034 residents aged ≥ 60 years. We utilized Cox proportional hazard models to assess the relationships between physical activity, WWI, and all-cause mortality, supplemented by subgroup analyses and interaction tests. We conducted a mediation analysis to assess how much of the effect of physical activity on survival status was mediated through WWI. The results showed that active individuals and those transitioning from inactive to active lifestyles exhibited significantly lower all-cause mortality risks, with reductions of 26% (HR = 0.74, CI: 0.65–0.83) and 9% (HR = 0.91, CI: 0.83–0.99), respectively. A positive correlation was found between WWI and all-cause mortality, with a threshold of 11.38 cm/√kg indicating an increased risk. Although no interaction between physical activity and WWI was observed (P = 0.462), mediation analysis showed that 3.06% of the effect of physical activity on survival status was mediated through WWI. The findings provide scientific evidence for developing health promotion strategies aimed at the elderly population.
A Scientometric Analysis of Research on Mealybugs and Its Control Measures
Authors: T POORNAKALA , K SIVASEKARAN , S MUNIASAMY , T RAJAGOPAL , P PONMANICKAM 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

A scientometric search was performed using the keyword “Mealybugs”. There are 1,898 documents related to mealybug research published between 1996 and 2022 in the Web of Science database. The first research question of this study concerns the authors of the most published papers in the field of mealybug research and their H-index generated using Histcite software. Daane, K.M. from the University of California, USA published 50 papers in the area of mealybug with highest H-index of 23, followed by Kaydan, M.B. with 40 papers and Miller, J.G. with 29 papers. The second research question was to identify the most cited authors and journals. Therefore, citation metrics were used and found the following authors: Daane,K.M., Baumann P, Gullan P.J. are among the top 20 authors in the field mealybug research. Additionally, the most cited journals are the Journal of Economic Entomology, Zootaxa and Florida Entomologist. Regarding the third research question, which addressed the most publishing countries on mealybugs, USA places first with highest publishing (531 records) followed by China (178 records). India places third with 152 records. Mealybug is an invasive alien species. Among mealybugs, the papaya mealybug, (Paracoccus marginatus) is recorded from the Oriental Region for the first time, where it was found in Indonesia (Java) and India (Tamil Nadu) in 2008 India (Muniappan et al., 2008). After that only mealybug research is growing up in India. Mealybugs are native to Central America, it spreads to the Caribbean region and South America in the 1990s; since then, it has been accidentally introduced to some islands in the Pacific region. Hence, a vast study on mealybug was reported from the country USA. Finally, this study addressed the most publishing institutions, various funding agencies of mealybug researches, conferences held in mealybug research, Research areas, Languages of publication and the document types. Bibliographic coupling of authors, Organization and countries are constructed using VOSviewer software. From that cluster form of results, we can able to visualize the networks of authors, organization from different countries work on mealybug research.
Predicting the influence of trees on wind environment in pedestrian-level through numerical simulation
Authors: Fan Lei , Jia Hongzuo , Zhou Yan 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Wind environment is closely related to people's lives and has a great influence on the comfort and safety of the environment. This research examines the influence of trees on wind environment in pedestrian-level. By integrating the theories of CFD simulation method and trees benefits, six canopy morphologies (Spheroid, Cone, Inverted Cone, Cylinder, Ellipsoid, Cuboid) models are proposed and validated. The PHOENICS is used for numerical simulation (144 scenarios), and the data are analyzed using Photoshop and linear regression model. It is found that the influence of trees on wind is linearly correlated with the varying crown width, trunk height and plant spacing. The influence of tree on wind velocity can be expressed by IFwind (the wind reducing ability) and AZ (the area of downwind deceleration zones). The framework and the numerical simulation in this paper are intended to support and guide future studies of wind comfort and wind safety of trees in pedestrian-level, and to contribute to improved wind environmental quality in urban areas through reasonable tree planting.