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BACKGROUND: There is evidence for a significant excess of kinetic upper limb tremor in non-FXTAS female FMR1 premutation carriers. The present study explores the possibility that this tremor is associated with various other features reminiscent of those occurring in syndromic FXTAS. SAMPLE/METHODS: This study analyzed the data from an Australian cohort of 48 asymptomatic premutation women. We utilized spiral drawings from CRST, representing action tremor; the CRST total tremor; and ICARS- kinetic tremors/cerebellar ataxia scales. Cognitive tests (involving executive functioning) included SDMT, TMT, two subtests of the WAIS-III: MR and Similarities. Spearman Rank correlations assessed the relationships between the above measures, and the Chi-square tested hypothesis about the association between the white matter hyperintensities (wmhs) in the splenium of corpus callosum assessed from MR images and spiral drawings scores. RESULTS: The spiral drawing scores were significantly correlated with all three non-verbal cognitive test scores, and with the CRST scores; the latter correlated with all four cognitive test measures. Similarities (verbal) scores correlated with CRST, ICARS, and with the remaining cognitive scores. Ordered spiral scores categories were significantly associated with the degree of splenium involvement. CONCLUSION: This study showed that, in non-FXTAS premutation female carriers, sub-symptomatic forms of kinetic tremor were associated with a broader motor, and cognitive (especially executive) dysfunction.

Polymer density-functional theories (PDFTs) have distinct advantages in the study of polyelectrolyte (PE) systems over experiments and molecular simulations. Here we give an introductory review of some PDFTs recently developed for PE systems. We start with a general formalism of PDFTs and its relation to the widely used polymer self-consistent field theory (SCFT), then explain the various correlations that are neglected in SCFT but can be accounted for in PDFTs, including those due to the excluded-volume interaction and chain connectivity of uncharged polymers, the electrostatic correlations of small ions, and the chain correlations in PEs. We also list some applications of PDFTs for PE systems, and finally give some perspectives on future work. We hope that our review can attract more researchers to apply and further develop PDFTs as a promising class of theoretical and computational tools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pair correlations of the Thue–Morse sequence and system are revisited, with focus on asymptotic results on various means. First, it is shown that all higher-order correlations of the Thue–Morse sequence with general real weights are effectively determined by a single value of the balanced 2-point correlation. As a consequence, we show that all odd-order correlations of the balanced Thue–Morse sequence vanish, and that, for any even n , the n -point correlations of the balanced Thue–Morse sequence have mean value zero, as do their absolute values, raised to an arbitrary positive power. All these results also apply to the entire Thue–Morse system. We finish by showing how the correlations of the Thue–Morse system with general real weights can be derived from the balanced 2-point correlations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Disparities in pH, conductivity, organic carbon (OC), nutrients, and moisture between the Asan Wetland and its periphery in the Western Himalaya, India, highlight the need to investigate influencing factors. This study thus addresses two gaps: (1) identifying key drivers for alkaline pH and elevated wetland concentrations and (2) understanding how different values outside the wetland relate to ecological processes. Asan Wetland soil samples, collected on April 15, 2023, underwent analysis for pH, electrical conductivity (EC), organic carbon (OC), organic matter (OM), available nitrogen (N), available phosphorus (P), potassium (K), sodium (Na), calcium (Ca), moisture content (M), total organic carbon (TOC), and total organic matter (TOM) using standard laboratory procedures, APHA, CPCB, and standard manual techniques. Within the wetland, results indicated that the soil is more alkaline (pH 8.50 ± 0.13) than the periphery in the concentrations of EC, N, K, and M were found to be higher compared to the corresponding concentrations outside the wetland, with mean values of 1.10 ± 0.15 ds/m, 364 ± 117.13 kg/ha, 86.42 ± 21.64 kg/ha, and 20.87 ± 1.50%, respectively. Conversely, outside the wetland, higher values of OC, OM, P, Na, Ca, TOC, and TOM were recorded (0.39 ± 0.23%, 0.66 ± 0.39%, 0.82 ± 0.35 ppm, 80.45 ± 8.46 ppm, 268.12 ± 61.12 ppm, 56.80 ± 0.33%, and 97.70 ± 0.57%, respectively). pH, EC, K, Ca, Na, and moisture content variations indicate location‐based differences. pH, TOM, TOC, and soil moisture were positively correlated within wetlands but negatively correlated with Na and N. In addition, moisture was positively correlated with pH and N but negatively correlated with Ca, K, Na, and P. The study concluded that the Asan Wetland exhibits distinct soil characteristics compared to its periphery, exhibiting location‐based differences while emphasizing these factors' interconnectedness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we propose a correlation‐based test for the evaluation of two competing forecasts. Under the null hypothesis of equal correlations with the target variable, we derive the asymptotic distribution of our test using the Delta method. This null hypothesis is not necessarily equivalent to the null of equal Mean Squared Prediction Errors (MSPE). Specifically, it might be the case that the forecast displaying the lowest MSPE also exhibits the lowest correlation with the target variable: this is known as "The MSPE paradox." In this sense, our approach should be seen as complementary to traditional tests of equality in MSPE. Monte Carlo simulations indicate that our test has good size and power. Finally, we illustrate the use of our test in an empirical exercise in which we compare two different inflation forecasts for a sample of OECD economies. We find more rejections of the null of equal correlations than rejections of the null of equality in MSPE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Concentrations of metoprolol in exhaled breath condensate (EBC) have not been investigated. Herein, we aim to determine the metoprolol levels in EBC, plasma, and urine samples. Methods: Biological samples were collected from 39 patients receiving metoprolol. Metoprolol was determined using liquid chromatography mass spectrometery. The obtained metoprolol levels in biological fluids were investigated for possible inter-correlations. Results: Acceptable linearity was obtained with coefficient of determinations equal to 0.9998, 0.9941, and 0.9963 for EBC, plasma, and urine samples, respectively. The calibration curves were linear in the ranges of 0.6–500, 0.4–500, and 0.7–10,000 µg·L− 1 regarding EBC, plasma, and urine samples, respectively. The detection and quantification limits were (0.18, 0.12, and 0.21 µg·L− 1) and (0.60, 0.40, and 0.70 µg·L− 1) for EBC, plasma, and urine samples, respectively. The relative standard deviations for the intra- and inter-day replications were obtained between 5.2 and 6.1 and 3.3–4.6%, respectively. The obtained mean metoprolol levels in EBC, plasma, and urine samples of 39 patients were 5.35, 70.76, and 1943.1 µg·L− 1. There were correlations between daily dose and plasma and urinary concentrations of metoprolol in the investigated samples, whereas no significant correlation was observed for daily dose and EBC levels. The correlation among plasma-urine levels was significant, however, the non-significant correlation was obtained between plasma and EBC concentrations. Conclusion: Metoprolol levels varied widely due to the metabolic pattern of the Azeri population, different dosages received by the patients, formulation effects, age, sex, and interactions with the co-administered drugs. A poor correlation of EBC-plasma concentrations and a significant correlation of plasma-urine concentrations were observed. Further investigations are required to provide the updated services to personalized medicine departments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quantum chemical modeling of CO oxidation on the Cu12S6(PH3)8 and Cu12S6 clusters was performed in order to establish the general tendencies in the process on metal nanoclusters stabilized by ligands and to find out if the presence of a phosphine ligand is needed in the active site. The Langmuir–Hinshelwood mechanism was studied, which involves sequential oxidation of two CO molecules with oxygen. The calculated activation energies on Cu12S6(PH3)8 are lower than on Cu12S6 for all oxidation stages; therefore, the PH3 ligands have a positive effect on the catalytic properties of the copper sulfide cluster in the CO oxidation. A linear correlation was found between the energy of CO adsorption on various copper sulfide clusters and the activation energy of the oxidation stage: the lowest activation energy is observed for the cluster with a CO adsorption energy of 36 kJ/mol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sequences formed by symbols are found in diverse fields, including genome sequences, written texts and computer codes. An interesting question is whether a sequence of symbols contains correlated structures. Existing methods to characterize correlations require a numerical representation of the sequence. In this regard, mapping a sequence of text into a sequence of numerical values is a key step for assessing correlation analysis. This work proposes a methodology to study correlations in a sequence of symbols. In the first step, the sequence of symbols is mapped in a multivariate numerical sequence formed by unit vectors in a vectorial space. The main feature of such mapping is that symbols are equally weighted, thus avoiding the numerical overrepresentation of symbols. In the second step, a multivariate version of the detrended fluctuation analysis is used to quantify correlations in the numerical sequence. Genome sequences (first COVID-19), written English texts and comovements between Bitcoin and gold markets were used to illustrate the proposed methodology's performance. The results showed that the balanced numerical mapping of symbolic sequences and the multivariate DFA provides valuable insights into the correlations in a sequence of symbols. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the Mediterranean region, particularly in Antalya, southern Türkiye, rising forest fire risks due to climate change threaten ecosystems, property, and lives. Reduced soil moisture during the growing season is a key factor increasing fire risk by stressing plants and lowering fuel moisture content. This study assessed soil moisture and fuel moisture content (FMC) in ten fires (2019–2021) affecting over 50 hectares. The Fire Weather Index (FWI) and its components (FFMC, DMC, DC) were calculated using data from the General Directorate of Meteorology, EFFIS (8 km), and ERA5 (≈28 km) satellite sources. Relationships between FMCs, satellite-based soil moisture datasets (SMAP, SMOS), and land surface temperature (LST) data (MODIS, Landsat 8) were analyzed. Strong correlations were found between FWI codes and satellite soil moisture, particularly with SMAP. Positive correlations were observed between LST and FWIs, while negative correlations were evident with soil moisture. Statistical models integrating in situ soil moisture and EFFIS FWI (R: −0.86, −0.84, −0.83 for FFMC, DMC, DC) predicted soil moisture levels during extended fire events effectively, with model accuracy assessed through RMSE (0.60–3.64%). The SMAP surface (0–5 cm) dataset yielded a lower RMSE of 0.60–2.08%, aligning with its higher correlation. This study underlines the critical role of soil moisture in comprehensive fire risk assessments and highlights the necessity of incorporating modeled soil moisture data in fire management strategies, particularly in regions lacking comprehensive in situ monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing improved common bean varieties with short cooking time (CT) and good canning quality traits (CQTs) is very key for accelerating bean consumption among the urban and middle‐class population. The objective of this study was to assess the genotypic variability and identify single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers associated with CT and CQTs in common bean. A total of 250 common bean accessions were evaluated under field conditions for two seasons using alpha lattice design with two replications. Three months post‐harvest, the dry bean grains were evaluated for CT and CQTs. Significant variation was observed among the 250 common bean accessions tested for both traits. CT ranged from 51 to 215 min, with 11 genotypes cooking in less than 60 min. The percentage total CQTs' score ranged from 41% to 84% with 31 genotypes scoring 76% and above. Forty‐seven significant GWAS signals were detected for CT on chromosomes Pv01, Pv04, Pv05 and Pv11 and CQTs on Pv01, Pv02, Pv03, Pv04, Pv05, Pv06, Pv07, Pv08, Pv10 and Pv11, respectively. Positional candidate genes including Phvul.005G161200 on chromosome Pv05, Phvul.007G2803001 and Phvul.007G280700 on chromosome Pv07 were associated with seed coat colour retention of the canned beans. Besides their usefulness in breeding research, the identified bean genotypes with shorter CT and good CQTs could enhance bean consumption and processing industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quark–Gluon plasma driven by the strong force is subject to the conservativeness of the baryon number, net electric charge, strangeness, etc. However, the fluctuations around their mean values at specific temperatures and chemical potentials can provide viable signals for the production of Quark–Gluon plasma. These fluctuations can be captured theoretically as moments of different orders in the expansion of pressure or the thermodynamic potential of the system under concern. Here, we look for possible explanations in the methodologies used for capturing them by using the framework of the Polyakov–Nambu–Jona-Lasinio (PNJL) model under the 2 + 1 flavor consideration with mean-field approximation. The various quantities thus explored can act to signify meaningfully near the phase transitions. Justifications are also made for some of the quantities capable of serving necessarily under experimental scenarios. Additionally, variations in certain quantities are also made for the different collision energies explored in the high-energy experiments. Rectification of the quantitative accuracy, especially in the low-temperature hadronic sector, is of prime concern, and it is also addressed. It was found that most of the observables stay in close proximity with the existing lattice QCD results at the continuum limit, with some artifacts still remaining, especially in the strange sector, which needs further attention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Structured marine clay is commonly encountered in offshore engineering projects and engineers are concerned about its impact on the engineering properties of marine clay as well as its correlation with index properties. Current research has emphasized the role of soil structure in these aspects of marine clay. In this study, we investigated the influence of depositional environment and oxidation-induced evolution of clay microstructure on the formation of clay structure in structured clay from Zhanjiang area, a coastal city located in South China. The distinct soil structure observed in marine-terrigenous clay deposited under different environments exhibited sensitivity ranging from 1.6 to 8.9 at varying moisture content levels. The wide range of sensitivity observed in structured marine-terrigenous clay was attributed to free iron oxide derived from siderite present in an acidic environment. Compared to other regions, Zhanjiang marine clay demonstrated favorable mechanical properties but poor physical properties due to its unique clay structure characteristics. Based on these findings, we proposed a modified approach for correlating index properties with engineering properties that yielded good predictions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we systematically investigate the multipartite correlations in the process of black hole radiation via the Parikh–Wilczek tunneling model. We examine not only the correlations among Hawking radiations but also the correlations between the emissions and the remainder of the black hole. Our findings indicate that the total correlation among emitted particles continues to increase as the black hole evaporates. Additionally, we observe that the bipartite correlation between the emissions and the remainder of the black hole initially increases and then decreases, while the total correlation of the entire system monotonically increases. Finally, we extend our analysis to include quantum correction and observe similar phenomena. Through this research, we aim to elucidate the mechanism of information conservation in the black hole information paradox. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the correlation between the levels of chromium (Cr), lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), zinc (Zn), and copper (Cu) in surface sediment samples and those in the total soft tissues of the mussel Mytilus.galloprovincialis, collected off the northern Moroccan coast in the Mediterranean. The objective was to examine the accumulation patterns of these heavy metals in M. galloprovincialis relative to their concentrations in the sediment. Detailed sampling of sediments and Mytilus galloprovincialis mussels were carried out at three specific stations to measure trace metal concentrations. A perfect correlation was observed for Pb levels between the mussel tissues and sediment. The sampling methods were carefully planned to ensure data accuracy and consistency, following strict protocols to reduce contamination and maintain sample integrity. In contrast, Cr showed only a weak correlation. The correlations for the other trace metals (Cd, Zn, and Cu) varied from strong to weak and were both positive and negative, but none were statistically significant. These findings underscore the potential of M. galloprovincialis as an effective biomonitoring species for Pb. However, additional research and more comprehensive analyses are necessary to establish firmer conclusions regarding the correlations for the other metals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigated the relationships of some physical and mechanical parameters of sediments and a typical clay during a natural dewatering process. Four sediments from different French river dams sampled by the Électricité De France group (EDF group) and a commercial kaolin clay used for comparative purposes were the focus of this study. Continuous dewatering was monitored in a laboratory by quantifying the percentage of water remaining in sediments or clay, drained and evaporated. Undrained shear strength was also assessed during the sediment or clay dewatering process, using the laboratory vane shear test. The samples were controlled along different dimensions during the dewatering process throughout the whole experiment. The results showed a certain interdependence between the physical parameters and the water content (ω), which was normalized by the liquidity limit (ω/LL) over time. This led to sigmoidal and exponential correlations when considering the percentage of water drained. The percentage of water remaining in the sediments or clay was characterized using the normalized water content, leading to exponential and power correlations. Both exponential and linear correlations were perfect for describing the evolution of the percentage of water evaporated. Other correlations were established for variations in void index, dry unit weight/solid unit weight ratio and undrained shear strength during the dewatering process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The introduction of V-shaped or inclined perforated baffles in a heat exchanger duct influences the flow dynamics significantly and enhances its thermal performance. The appropriate spacing and perforation shape of baffles further improve the heat transfer mechanism. This work aims to experimentally compare the thermal attributes of a smooth air heater duct with those by incorporating perforated V-shaped baffles with staggered non-circular openings of a constant perforation ratio in the flow passage. The effects obtained on the Nusselt number (Nu), friction factor (f) and the thermohydraulic performance parameter (η) of the duct are studied under the turbulent airflow Reynolds number (Re) range of 5500 to 15,000 by modifying three different values of pitch ratio (p/H) and hole-hydraulic depth-to-baffle height ratio ( d h / e) for both V-down and V-up arrays. The investigation also encompasses developing the correlations of criteria Nu, f and η. The results show that the Nu ameliorates by increasing d h / e at reduced p/H, whereas the f value increases by reducing the hole-hydraulic depth. The maximum Nusselt number ratio (Nu / N u s ) obtained for V-down and V-up baffles, respectively, are 3.36 and 3.58 at p/H of 1 and d h / e of 0.84 with the Re range of around 13,600. The V-down and the V-up array at p/H of 1 shows the maximum friction factor ratio (f / f s ) as 11.9 and 13.14, respectively, for d h / e values of 0.74 and 0.79 at the extreme Re range. The V-up array at p/H of 3 with increased d h / e (0.84) outperforms obtaining the highest η value of 1.67. The correlations developed show good agreement between the experimental and predicted data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acalypha wilkesiana is considered a great tool for rearing Tetranychus urticae in the laboratory; it has two colors of leaves i.e., green and red. The leaf pigment content and some chemical properties were observed in this study to examine the correlation between the biology of T. urticae and the physio-biochemical features of the green and red leaves of A. wilkesiana. Results showed that T. urticae individuals achieved faster growth and a greater number of eggs deposited by females when feeding on A. wilkesiana with greener leaves, which contained higher levels of photosynthetic pigments (chlorophyll a and b, and total carotenoids). There was a significant positive correlation (P ≤ 0.05) between T. urticae female hatchability, egg deposited/female, and daily rate with contents of total carbohydrate, total carotenoids, soluble sugars, chlorophyll a, and chlorophyll b. For male biology, there was a significant positive correlation (P ≤ 0.05) between T. urticae male life span, immature stages, and life cycle with contents of total phenols, and anthocyanin. These results indicated the role of chemical components of Acalypha leaves in the biological aspects of T. urticae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The human brain is still an enigma, and the relation between its physiology and function is still poorly understood. Advancements in quantum computations led to the hypothesis that neurons can also exercise quantum coherence, and a model for neuronal activity with quantum correlations appearing from the nuclei entanglement was proposed. However, whether such correlations can survive in a high-temperature biological environment to propagate through a neural network is still an open question. In this work, we examine one of the first steps in this process, the diffusion of neurotransmitters through the synaptic cleft, and show that, at least at this step, the correlations are persistent. Our results do not confirm the "quantum brain" hypothesis, but at least, they do not disprove it either, with studies on further steps needed. The "quantum brain" proposal can revolutionize our understanding of cognition if proven valid. The core of the most common "quantum brain" mechanism is the appearance of correlated neuron triggering induced by quantum correlations between ions. In this work, we examine the preservation of the correlations created in the pre-synaptic neurons through the transfer of neurotransmitters across the synaptic cleft, a critical ingredient for the validity of the "quantum brain" hypothesis. We simulated the transport of two neurotransmitters at two different clefts, with the only assumption that they start simultaneously, and determined the difference in their first passage times. We show that in physiological conditions, the correlations are persistent even if the parameters of the two neurons are different. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Obesity poses significant challenges, necessitating comprehensive strategies for effective intervention. Bariatric Surgery (BS) has emerged as a crucial therapeutic approach, demonstrating success in weight loss and comorbidity improvement. This study aimed to evaluate the outcomes of BS in a cohort of 48 Uruguayan patients and investigate the interplay between BS and clinical and metabolic features, with a specific focus on FSTL1, an emerging biomarker associated with obesity and inflammation. We quantitatively analyzed BS outcomes and constructed linear models to identify variables impacting BS success. The study revealed the effectiveness of BS in improving metabolic and clinical parameters. Importantly, variables correlating with BS success were identified, with higher pre-surgical FSTL1 levels associated with an increased effect of BS on BMI reduction. FSTL1 levels were measured from patient plasma using an ELISA kit pre-surgery and six months after. This research, despite limitations of a small sample size and limited follow-up time, contributes valuable insights into understanding and predicting the success of BS, highlighting the potential role of FSTL1 as a useful biomarker in obesity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Biannual instrument-correlation studies are required for nonwaived assays performed on multiple instruments. Objective To determine the feasibility of using College of American Pathologists (CAP) Quality Cross Check—Chemistry and Therapeutic Drug Monitoring (CZQ) to assess instrument correlations among multiple analyzers, analyzer models, and Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) licenses for 55 unique analytes. Methods Instrument correlation studies were performed on 9 Abbott ARCHITECT instruments (c4000 [n = 4], c8000 [n = 2], and c16000 [n = 3]) over 3 CLIA licenses using CZQ materials. The mean (SD) values, concentration difference, percent bias, and peer data for each individual level of CZQ were determined for each individual analyzer. Acceptable concentration and percentage for each analyte were set using criteria from CAP or other reputable sources such as the American Association of Bioanalysts or the Royal College of Pathologists of Australasia. Peer data were provided by CAP with the CZQ kit. Results Correlations using CZQ materials showed that 94.5% of assays studied were within the acceptability criteria by percent bias only and 98.2% were within acceptability criteria by concentration difference. Conclusions The use of CZQ provides support to standardized correlation studies among instruments within and across separate CLIA licenses. However, widespread adoption of CZQ may be limited due to concerns regarding matrix effects, analyte ranges, and ease of data analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Complex signals can be viewed as compositions of numerous sine waves with different frequencies and amplitudes. As the fundamental unit of perceiving image features, traditional Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) typically employ convolutional kernels without direct constraints. However, human perception of the world is inherently structured, relevant studies have indicated that considering the potential underlying correlation structures among data features or variables holds significant value, with particular emphasis on symmetric transformations in representation learning gaining attention in the field of neuroscience. Inspired by the process of human visual concept perception and classic image feature detection operators, when the convolution kernels have a similar scale to the objects, they produce larger responses. This paper introduces constraints on model parameters using centrosymmetric convolutional kernels. Under the influence of nonlinear combinations and local connections in neural networks, these kernels can diversely represent or perceive local image features. Experimental comparisons are conducted, and it is observed that the approach proposed in this paper not only enhances the convergence and accuracy of model, but also reduces the model solution space, resulting in an interpretable perception of local concepts. Furthermore, comparative experiments with classic deep CNNs have demonstrated comparable performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.) is a thermophilic crop that occupies the third place in the world in terms of cultivation area among leguminous crops. Vegetable cowpea cultivars are successfully cultivated in the open ground in Russia, in its southern regions and the south of the Far East. The creation of new cultivars adapted to cultivation in different regions and suitable for widespread industrial production, is extremely relevant. Materials and methods. The variability of 20 morphological and three phenological traits of six cowpea accessions with different growth habit types and architectonics was assessed in various ecological and geographical conditions at VIR experiment stations (in Astrakhan Province, Primorye Territory and Krasnodar Territory) in 2019-2022. The variability and interrelationships of the traits were estimated using basic and multivariate statistical methods. Results. The analysis revealed a significant influence of the factor complex (genotype/accession, research location) on the variability of traits. Phenological traits, the length of internodes and leaflets depended most strongly on the research location. The range of variation in the number of nodes, branches, peduncles and pods per plant, stem thickness and pod size were determined by the genotype to a larger extent. The range of stem length variability was significantly influenced by the research location and the genotype, though the genotype had a stronger influence. The genotypes responded differently to changes in growing conditions. For most of the studied accessions, an increase in the main stem length was noted in the monsoon climate conditions of the Primorye Territory, for some of them the type of growth habit changed from determinant to indeterminate. In our research, the plant length was positively correlated with the amount of precipitation and with the average relative humidity. Excessive humidity and precipitation had minimal effect only on the cultivar ‘Lyanchihe’, whose plants retained dwarfness and compact architectonics. Factor analysis (principal factors analysis) revealed four factors responsible for the main part of the variance of the analyzed traits. The characteristics of the leaf were combined in the first factor, those of architectonics and time of plant development in the second, traits of the seedling and the juvenile stage in the third, and those of the pod in the fourth factor. These complexes of traits (factors) determined the variability of cowpea in our research. Conclusion. The performed analysis of morphological and phenological traits revealed a significant increase of stem length and changes in plant architectonics under conditions of high relative humidity and a large amount of precipitation. In some cases, even the type of growth habit was changed. The further research on the studied characters variability involving more accessions and the determination of molecular mechanisms that control stability of the growth habit type and length of the stem will allow us to proceed to a more efficient and rapid creation of new cultivars suitable for mechanized cultivation. This is extremely important for the development of new areas by cultivating species, the demand in which as a source of food and feed is increasing in the Russian Federation.

Abstract Obesity poses significant challenges, necessitating comprehensive strategies for effective intervention. Bariatric Surgery (BS) has emerged as a crucial therapeutic approach, demonstrating success in weight loss and comorbidity improvement. This study aimed to evaluate the outcomes of BS in a cohort of 48 Uruguayan patients and investigate the interplay between BS and clinical and metabolic features, with a specific focus on FSTL1, an emerging biomarker associated with obesity and inflammation. We quantitatively analyzed BS outcomes and constructed linear models to identify variables impacting BS success. The study revealed the effectiveness of BS in improving metabolic and clinical parameters. Importantly, variables correlating with BS success were identified, with higher pre-surgical FSTL1 levels associated with an increased effect of BS on BMI reduction. FSTL1 levels were measured from patient plasma using an ELISA kit pre-surgery and six months after. This research, despite limitations of a small sample size and limited follow-up time, contributes valuable insights into understanding and predicting the success of BS, highlighting the potential role of FSTL1 as a useful biomarker in obesity.

Background: Assessment and quantification of skeletal muscle within the aging population is vital for diagnosis, treatment, and injury/disease prevention. The clinical availability of assessing muscle quality through diagnostic ultrasound presents an opportunity to be utilized as a screening tool for function-limiting diseases. However, relationships between muscle echogenicity and clinical functional assessments require authoritative analysis. Thus, we aimed to (a) synthesize the literature to assess the relationships between skeletal muscle echogenicity and physical function in older adults (≥60 years), (b) perform pooled analyses of relationships between skeletal muscle echogenicity and physical function, and (c) perform sub-analyses to determine between-muscle relationships. Methods: CINAHL, Embase, MEDLINE, PubMed, and Web of Science databases were systematically searched to identify articles relating skeletal muscle echogenicity to physical function in older adults. Risk-of-bias assessments were conducted along with funnel plot examination. Meta-analyses with and without sub-analyses for individual muscles were performed utilizing Fisher's Z transformation for the most common measures of physical function. Fisher's Z was back-transformed to Pearson's r for interpretation. Results: Fifty-one articles (n = 5095, female = ∼2759, male = ∼2301, 72.5 ± 5.8 years, mean ± SD (1 study did not provide sex descriptors)) were extracted for review, with previously unpublished data obtained from the authors of 13 studies. The rectus femoris (n = 34) and isometric knee extension strength (n = 22) were the most accessed muscle and physical qualities, respectively. The relationship between quadriceps echogenicity and knee extensor strength was moderate (n = 2924, r = –0.36 (95% confidence interval: –0.38 to –0.32), p < 0.001), with all other meta-analyses (grip strength, walking speed, sit-to-stand, timed up-and-go) resulting in slightly weaker correlations (r: –0.34 to –0.23, all p < 0.001). Sub-analyses determined minimal differences in predictive ability between muscle groups, although combining muscles (e.g., rectus femoris + vastus lateralis) often resulted in stronger correlations with maximal strength. Conclusion: While correlations are modest, the affordable, portable, and noninvasive ultrasonic assessment of muscle quality is a consistent predictor of physical function in older adults. Minimal between-muscle differences suggest that echogenicity estimates of muscle quality are systemic. Therefore, practitioners may be able to scan a single muscle to estimate full-body skeletal muscle quality/composition, while researchers should consider combining multiple muscles to strengthen the model.

• Relationships between skeletal muscle echogenicity and physical function were small to moderate but highly consistent. • Sub-analyses determined minimal between-muscle differences in predictive ability. • Ultrasonic echogenicity should be considered part of early detection screens for sarcopenia and other diseases. • Combining muscles tended to strengthen the model, although muscle quality appears systemic, allowing for a single scan to represent the total body. Assessment and quantification of skeletal muscle within the aging population is vital for diagnosis, treatment, and injury/disease prevention. The clinical availability of assessing muscle quality through diagnostic ultrasound presents an opportunity to be utilized as a screening tool for function-limiting diseases. However, relationships between muscle echogenicity and clinical functional assessments require authoritative analysis. Thus, we aimed to (a) synthesize the literature to assess the relationships between skeletal muscle echogenicity and physical function in older adults (≥60 years), (b) perform pooled analyses of relationships between skeletal muscle echogenicity and physical function, and (c) perform sub-analyses to determine between-muscle relationships. CINAHL, Embase, MEDLINE, PubMed, and Web of Science databases were systematically searched to identify articles relating skeletal muscle echogenicity to physical function in older adults. Risk-of-bias assessments were conducted along with funnel plot examination. Meta-analyses with and without sub-analyses for individual muscles were performed utilizing Fisher's Z transformation for the most common measures of physical function. Fisher's Z was back-transformed to Pearson's r for interpretation. Fifty-one articles (n = 5095, female = ∼2759, male = ∼2301, 72.5 ± 5.8 years, mean ± SD (1 study did not provide sex descriptors)) were extracted for review, with previously unpublished data obtained from the authors of 13 studies. The rectus femoris (n = 34) and isometric knee extension strength (n = 22) were the most accessed muscle and physical qualities, respectively. The relationship between quadriceps echogenicity and knee extensor strength was moderate (n = 2924, r = –0.36 (95% confidence interval: –0.38 to –0.32), p < 0.001), with all other meta-analyses (grip strength, walking speed, sit-to-stand, timed up-and-go) resulting in slightly weaker correlations (r : –0.34 to –0.23, all p < 0.001). Sub-analyses determined minimal differences in predictive ability between muscle groups, although combining muscles (e.g., rectus femoris + vastus lateralis) often resulted in stronger correlations with maximal strength. While correlations are modest, the affordable, portable, and noninvasive ultrasonic assessment of muscle quality is a consistent predictor of physical function in older adults. Minimal between-muscle differences suggest that echogenicity estimates of muscle quality are systemic. Therefore, practitioners may be able to scan a single muscle to estimate full-body skeletal muscle quality/composition, while researchers should consider combining multiple muscles to strengthen the model. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We discuss two-photon physics, taking for illustration the particular but topical case of resonance fluorescence. We show that the basic concepts of interferences and correlations provide at the two-photon level an independent and drastically different picture than at the one-photon level, with landscapes of correlations that reveal various processes by spanning over all the possible frequencies at which the system can emit. Such landscapes typically present lines of photon bunching and circles of antibunching. The theoretical edifice to account for these features rests on two pillars: (i) a theory of frequency-resolved photon correlations and (ii) admixing classical and quantum fields. While experimental efforts have been to date concentrated on correlations between spectral peaks, strong correlations exist between photons emitted away from the peaks, which are accessible only through multi-photon observables. These could be exploited for both fundamental understanding of quantum-optical processes as well as applications by harnessing these unsuspected resources. This article is part of the theme issue 'Celebrating the 15th anniversary of the Royal Society Newton International Fellowship'. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Objective] The aims of this study are to clarify the characteristics and influence of soil water content, soil porosity, soil nutrients and the flue-cured tobacco quality in the condition of different dosage of water retaining agent (Potassium polycalcium), to apply the important supply to relieve drought and enhance the quality of the tobacco. Methods] The random-groups design and the condition of different dosages of water retention agent were adopted to measure the indices of soil water content. soil nutrients and tobacco. quality. [Results] As the dosages of water retention agent increased the soil pH value changed from 7.4 το 7.7. total porosity, capillary porosity, soil saturated water content field capacity, capillary water content first increased then decreased. when the dosage of water retaining agent reached to 150 kg/hm, the value of soil bulk density reached to the lowest value. However, the values of total porosity, capillary porosity, soil saturated water content and capillary porosity reached to the highest values. The value of CEC showed fluctuated changes. With the increased of the dosages of water retention agent, the soil organic carbon, soil total potassium available potassium first increased then decreased. However, the total nitrogen, total phosphorus, alkali hydrolyzed nitrogen and available phosphorus showed the increasing trends. But the bulk density first decreased then increased. The chlorine and total nitrogen of the tobacco leaves showed the trends of the upper leaves < the middle leaves < the lower leaves, and as the concentrations of the water retention agent increased, the content of the chlorine of the tobacco leaves showed the fluctuating change. The potassium of middle and upper leaves of the tobacco leaves were higher than that of the lower leaves. And it increased as the concentrations of the water retention agent increased. The content of nicotine changed as the order: the upper leaves the middle leaves the lower leaves, and there existed the weak correlation between nicotine and the concentration of the water retention agents. The reducing sugar and total sugar showed the similar change trends. The ratio of potassium and chlorine changed as the order: the upper leaves > the middle leaves > the lower leaves, and showed the fluctuating change trends as the concentration of water retention agent increased. However, the ratio of nicotine and total nitrogen and the ratio of sugar and alkaline. showed the order: the upper leaves < the middle leaves < the lower leaves, and the two ratios increased as the concentration of water retention agents increased. Meanwhile, there existed the significant positive correlation between the soil total nitrogen and the chlorine contents, the potassium of the upper leaves, the reducing sugar (p<0.05). Also there existed the significant positive correlation between the soil organic carbon and the chlorine contents, the reducing sugar the potassium of the upper leaves, the nicotine of the lower leaves (p<0.05). [Conclusion Above all, the dosage of 150 kg/hm' is considered as the best dosage to soil amelioration in southwest China. Also this study can supply the basis and data supports to the anti- drought ability and enhance the flue-cured tobacco quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We propose a four-state regime-switching model that pairs low-volatility and high-volatility (HV) states to test eight stock–safe-haven asset portfolios' risk properties. We find the correlations between gold, U.S. T-bond, and the Swiss franc and stock markets are negative or zero in all states, including the HV–HV state, while the correlations between Bitcoin (BTC) and stock markets are positive in the HV–HV state, implying that gold, T-bond, and the Swiss franc are full safe-havens and BTC is a partial safe-haven asset. Moreover, our model is effective in portfolio construction, performing better than conventional time-varying generalized autoregressive conditional heteroskedasticity-based models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Robust optimization is an essential tool for addressing the uncertainties in power systems. Most existing algorithms, such as Benders decomposition and column‐and‐constraint generation (C&CG), focus on robust optimization with decision‐independent uncertainty (DIU). However, increasingly common decision‐dependent uncertainties (DDUs) in power systems are frequently overlooked. When DDUs are considered, traditional algorithms for robust optimization with DIUs become inapplicable. This is because the previously selected worst‐case scenarios may fall outside the uncertainty set when the first‐stage decision changes, causing traditional algorithms to fail to converge. This study provides a general solution algorithm for robust optimization with DDU, which is called dual C&CG. Its convergence and optimality are proven theoretically. To demonstrate the effectiveness of the dual C&CG algorithm, we used the do‐not‐exceed limit (DNEL) problem as an example. The results show that the proposed algorithm can not only solve the simple DNEL model studied in the literature but also provide a more practical DNEL model considering the correlations among renewable generators.

The geotechnical characterisation of offshore wind farm sites requires measurement or estimation of the small-strain shear stiffness Gmax of the subsoil. This parameter can be derived from shear wave velocity Vs measurements if the bulk density of the soil is known. Since direct measurements of Vs are generally not available at all foundation locations in a wind farm, correlations with cone penetration test (CPT) results are often used to determine location-specific stiffness parameters for foundation design. Existing correlations have mostly been calibrated to onshore datasets which may not contain the same soil types and stress conditions found in the North Sea. The distinct geological history of the North Sea necessitates a critical review of these existing CPT-based correlations. They are evaluated against an extensive database of in situ Vs measurements in the southern North Sea. The importance of modelling the stress-dependent nature of Vs is highlighted, and a novel stress-dependent model for Vs from CPT data, which leads to an improved fit, is presented. As the small-strain stiffness is used as an input to foundation response calculations, the model uncertainty of the correlation can introduce significant uncertainty into the resulting foundation response. This transformation uncertainty is quantified for each of the correlations evaluated in this study and shows important variations.

Condensation heat transfer is involved in many industrial applications. Therefore, it is important to know the relative accuracy of the available methods for predicting heat transfer. Condensation can occur with saturated as well as superheated vapors. Predictive methods for both conditions were evaluated using a wide range of data. Twelve well-known correlations for the condensation of saturated vapor, including the most recent ones, were compared with data for 51 pure fluids and mixtures from 132 sources in horizontal and vertical channels of many shapes. Channel hydraulic diameters were 0.08–49 mm, the mass flux was 1.1–1400 kg/m2s, and the reduced pressure range was 0.0006–0.949. The fluids included water, CO2, ammonia, hydrocarbons, halocarbon refrigerants, various chemicals, and heat transfer fluids. The best predictive technique was identified. The three most commonly used models for heat transfer during the condensation of superheated vapors were studied. They were first compared with test data using measured saturated condensation and forced convection heat transfer coefficients to select the best model. The selected model was then compared with test data using various correlations for heat transfer coefficients needed in the model. The best correlations to use in the model were identified. The results of this research are presented, as are recommendations for use in design.

There were studied results of the impact of increased consumption of proteins and L-carnitine in the nutrition program of full-term newborns with perinatal diseases on the results of physical development and inpatient treatment features. The purpose of the work was to study the correlations between short-term higher consumption of protein and carnitine by full-term newborns and the results of their physical development, the duration of hospital care development. The vital signs of 59 full-term newborns were studied in a randomized controlled trial in the period 2017-2020. The main critical disease of the perinatal period in newborns of both groups was found to be hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy of a moderate degree in 86.7% and 86.2%, without a statistically significant difference. One group (n=30) received nutrition with mother's milk or formula, the second group (n=29) received similar nutrition with fortification with a protein and L-carnitine supplement during the hospital stay. At the beginning and at the end of the treatment, physical development of the newborns was studied and correlations between the obtained data were investigated. Newborns of both groups did not differ in characteristics at the beginning of the study. The proportions of the newborns' weight corresponded to the limits of the 50% percentile. The group with increased consumption of protein and carnitine, fortification group (FG) demonstrated better indicators of physical development, they regained body mass faster. Body mass of the newborns of the fortification group goup was 3966.9±439.1 g, compared to the standard nutrition (SN) group, with indicators being 3554.6±452.3 g, at p=0.003. The rate of increase in body length in FG was twice that of the SN group. Consumption of a larger dose of protein was accompanied by a shorter stay in the intensive care unit – 10.0 (8.0; 12.0) days versus 12.0 (11.0; 16.0) days, with U=235.0; p=0.002; earlier discharge from the hospital – 21.0 (19.0; 27.0) days versus 26.5 (22.0; 31.0) days, with U=267.0, p=0.01. Carnitine supplementation in the FG group led to an increase in the level of free carnitine in the blood plasma samples taken before the discharge from the hospital. The study of correlations revealed a positive correlation between the consumption of a full dose of proteins and the total increase in height (R=0.3, p

Introduction: Knowledge on spatiotemporal heterogeneity of plant root microbiomes is lacking. The diversity of the root microbiome must be revealed for understanding plant–microbe interactions and the regulation of functionally crucial microbial taxa. Methods: We here investigated the dynamics of microbial group characteristics within each soil ecological compartment [rhizoplane (B), rhizosphere (J), and bulk soil (T)] across different cultivation years (year 4: F4 and year 5: F5) by using high-throughput sequencing (16S and ITS). Results: According to the species diversity, microbiome diversity and the ASV (amplified sequence variant) number in the rhizoplane ecotone increased significantly with an increase in the planting years. By contrast, the microbiome diversity of the rhizosphere soil remained relatively stable. PCoA and PERMANOVA analyses revealed that microbial taxa among different planting years and ecological compartments varied significantly. Planting years exerted the least effect on the rhizosphere microbiome, but their impact on fungi in the rhizoplane and bacteria in the bulk soil was the most significant. Discussion: Planting years influenced the microbial community composition in various ecological compartments of ginseng root soil. Potentially harmful fungi such as Cryptococcus (2.83%), Neonectria (0.89%), llyonectria (0.56%), Gibberella (0.41%), Piloderma (4.44%), and Plectosphaerella (3.88%) were enriched in F5B with an increase in planting years, whereas the abundance of potentially beneficial Mortierella increased. Correlation analysis indicated associations between bacterial taxa and soil pH/S-CAT, and between fungal taxa and soil moisture content/total potassium. Our study highlights the significance of changes in rhizoplane fungi and the stability of the rhizosphere microbial community in comprehending plant ecological sustainability [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is evidence for a significant excess of kinetic upper limb tremor in non-FXTAS female FMR1 premutation carriers. The present study explores the possibility that this tremor is associated with various other features reminiscent of those occurring in syndromic FXTAS. Sample/methods: This study analyzed the data from an Australian cohort of 48 asymptomatic premutation women. We utilized spiral drawings from CRST, representing action tremor; the CRST total tremor; and ICARS- kinetic tremors/cerebellar ataxia scales. Cognitive tests (involving executive functioning) included SDMT, TMT, two subtests of the WAIS-III: MR and Similarities. Spearman Rank correlations assessed the relationships between the above measures, and the Chi-square tested hypothesis about the association between the white matter hyperintensities (wmhs) in the splenium of corpus callosum assessed from MR images and spiral drawings scores. Results: The spiral drawing scores were significantly correlated with all three nonverbal cognitive test scores, and with the CRST scores; the latter correlated with all four cognitive test measures. Similarities (verbal) scores correlated with CRST, ICARS, and with the remaining cognitive scores. Ordered spiral scores' categories were significantly associated with the degree of splenium involvement. Conclusion: This study showed that, in non-FXTAS premutation female carriers, sub-symptomatic forms of kinetic tremor were associated with a broader motor, and cognitive (especially executive) dysfunction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rice is a major grain crop in numerous countries. In lowland areas, high iron levels in the soil severely hinder its cultivation. The current study explored high-yielding and Fe-toxicity-tolerant irrigated lowland rice (340 lines) among a population derived from a cross between Suakoko 8 and Bao Thai in Edozighi and Ibadan, Nigeria. In contrast to Ibadan, the soils in Edozighi contain a significant amount of iron. For the stated purpose, we carried out a two-year experiment using an alpha lattice design. The data showed significant differences between genotypes for the days to heading, plant height, number of tillers per plant, number of panicles per plant, panicle length, and grain yield. The results revealed that multiple characteristics had both direct and indirect effects on cultivated rice yields. There was a direct and positive influence on the number of days in the 50% heading period (0.31), a direct and negative effect on plant height (−0.94), a direct and positive effect on tiller and panicle numbers, and a direct but negative effect on panicle length (−0.56). The leaf bronzing score was adversely correlated with yield, panicle length, and plant height, while it was positively correlated with the number of panicles, tillers, and days to heading. The findings showed significant changes in yield and yield characteristics between genotypes. Grain yields ranged from 283 to 11,700 kg/ha in the absence of iron in the soil, contrary to 0 to 8230 kg/ha in soil with iron toxicity, with losses estimated between 6 and 94%, demonstrating the resulting disaster. In contrast to the elite parents and varieties used in this study, the ten top genotypes exhibited smaller losses in yield. The authors strongly recommend using these lines for further studies as donors or releasing them in farmer fields in Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The primary aim of this study was to explore whether intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) can offer a contrast-agent-free alternative to dynamic contrast-enhanced (DCE)-MRI for measuring breast tumor perfusion. The secondary aim was to investigate the relationship between tissue diffusion measures from DWI and DCE-MRI measures of the tissue interstitial and extracellular volume fractions.Materials and methods: A total of 108 paired DWI and DCE-MRI scans were acquired at 1.5 T from 40 patients with primary breast cancer (median age: 44.5 years) before and during neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT). DWI parameters included apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), tissue diffusion (Dt), pseudo-diffusion coefficient (Dp), perfused fraction (f), and the product f×Dp (microvascular blood flow). DCE-MRI parameters included blood flow (Fb), blood volume fraction (vb), interstitial volume fraction (ve) and extracellular volume fraction (vd). All were extracted from three tumor regions of interest (whole-tumor, ADC cold-spot, and DCE-MRI hot-spot) at three MRI visits: pre-treatment, after one, and three cycles of NACT. Spearman’s rank correlation was used for assessing between-subject correlations (r), while repeated measures correlation was employed to assess within-subject correlations (rrm) across visits between DWI and DCE-MRI parameters in each region.Results: No statistically significant between-subject or within-subject correlation was found between the perfusion parameters estimated by IVIM and DCE-MRI (f versus vb and f×Dp versus Fb; P=0.07–0.81). Significant moderate positive between-subject and within-subject correlations were observed between ADC and ve (r=0.461, rrm=0.597) and between Dt and ve (r=0.405, rrm=0.514) as well as moderate positive within-subject correlations between ADC and vd and between Dt and vd (rrm=0.619 and 0.564, respectively) in the whole-tumor region.Conclusion: No correlations were observed between the perfusion parameters estimated by IVIM and DCE-MRI. This may be attributed to imprecise estimates of fxDp and vb, or an underlying difference in what IVIM and DCE-MRI measure. Care should be taken when interpreting the IVIM parameters (f and f×Dp) as surrogates for those measured using DCE-MRI. However, the moderate positive correlations found between ADC and Dt and the DCE-MRI parameters ve and vd confirms the expectation that as the interstitial and extracellular volume fractions increase, water diffusion increases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Standing is a basic human function that healthy adults take for granted, yet it is a complex perceptual-motor process that requires sensation of position and motion from the sensory systems. We assessed agreement between center of pressure data from a laboratory force-platform and head position data from an HTC Vive head-mounted display (HMD) for the evaluation of standing postural control. We investigated the impact of different statistical choices when assessing the relationship between two measurements. Specifically: 1) How does correlation and agreement statistics relate before and after logarithmic transformation? 2) Is there systemic or proportional bias between the force-platform and HMD measurements? We tested 37 adults (26 controls, 11 with unilateral vestibular hypofunction) standing on foam, observing a static or dynamic visual scene projected from the HMD. We quantified anterior-posterior and medio-lateral sway via Directional Path, Root Mean Square Velocity, Variance, and Power Spectral Density (PSD) from a force-platform and the HMD. Intra-class correlations (ICCs) were moderate-to-good for the non-transformed data and good-to-excellent after logarithmic transformation for all outcomes except for PSD above 1 Hz. Correlations were higher than ICCs. Bland-Altman plots indicated proportional bias but not after logarithmic transformation. Both devices correlated linearly, and measure people’s postural responses but cannot be used interchangeably, mostly because they appear to diverge with larger sway as evident on Bland-Altman plots of non-transformed data. Agreement between devices was excellent for low frequency movement but poor for high frequency small corrective movements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractIn this study, an investigation of heat transfer by free convection in a wavy-walled cavity loaded with Al2O3–water nanofluid and subjected to a magnetic field was developed. In lower wall of this cavity baffles are installed. The different conservation equations were solved via Ansys-Fluent software by applying the finite volume technique and the buoyancy forces were expressed by Boussinesq approximation. This investigation gives explanations on the impact of the different factors on heat exchange and nanofluid movement in the chosen geometry, namely, Rayleigh and Hartmann numbers, volume fraction, and presence of baffles which is considered the novelty of this work. Results found illustrate that heat exchange is enhanced by intensification of Rayleigh number and addition of nanoparticles, due to development of a significant temperature gradient and the improved characteristics of nanofluids while the growth of Hartmann number reduces heat exchange owing to the magnetic field action on free convection. Depending on the configuration studied, the installation of the baffles can sometimes localizes the flow in an area of the enclosure and reduces heat transmission which is the case of this study. Finally, correlations were proposed for Nusselt number to get an idea on heat exchange rate and which are rarely given in this type of studies. These results can help in the design of certain energy systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rubinstein–Taybi syndrome (RTS) is a rare genetic disorder characterized by intellectual disability, facial dysmorphisms, and enlarged thumbs and halluces. Approximately 55% of RTS cases result from pathogenic variants in the CREBBP gene, with an additional 8% linked to the EP300 gene. Given the close relationship between these two genes and their involvement in epigenomic modulation, RTS is grouped into chromatinopathies. The extensive clinical heterogeneity observed in RTS, coupled with the growing number of disorders involving the epigenetic machinery, poses a challenge to a phenotype-based diagnostic approach for these conditions. Here, we describe the first case of a patient clinically diagnosed with RTS with a CREBBP truncating variant in mosaic form. We also review previously described cases of mosaicism in CREBBP and apply clinical diagnostic guidelines to these patients, confirming the good specificity of the consensus. Nonetheless, these reports raise questions about the potential underdiagnosis of milder cases of RTS. The application of a targeted phenotype-based approach, coupled with high-depth NGS, may enhance the diagnostic yield of whole-exome sequencing (WES) in mild and mosaic conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Some soil characteristics, such as the shear wave velocity, the shear modulus, the Poisson ratio, and the porosity, affect how clay soils behave. The soil design parameters under loading, such as soil liquefaction induced by dynamic earthquake loading, employ the shear wave velocity and shear module with modest stress. In order to understand the pore saturation, the Poisson ratio and seismic velocity ratio are also utilized. Additionally, one of the most crucial physical characteristics for assessing permeability at the base of any engineering structure, resolving consolidation issues that may arise at the foundation of an engineering structure, and influencing the deformation behavior of soils is soil porosity. Predicting the porosity of clay soils is a crucial first step in tackling engineering and environmental issues that may arise in the soil after an earthquake or not. With the use of dynamic soil metrics such as seismic velocities, shear modules, bulk modules, seismic velocity ratios, and Poisson ratios, the current work aims to estimate soil porosity. Seismic refraction was used by various studies in the past to conduct in-situ geophysical research. The lithological characteristics of the soil (such as the grain size, shape, type, compaction, consolidation, and cementation of the grains) and the physical characteristics of the soil (such as porosity, permeability, density, anisotropy, saturation level, liquid–solid transition, pressure, and temperature), as well as the elasticity characteristics of the soil (such as shear modulus (G), bulk modulus (K), Young modulus (E), Poisson ratio (μ) and Lamé constants (λ )) all have an impact on seismic waves passing through a medium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Condensation heat transfer is involved in many industrial applications. Therefore, it is important to know the relative accuracy of the available methods for predicting heat transfer. Condensation can occur with saturated as well as superheated vapors. Predictive methods for both conditions were evaluated using a wide range of data. Twelve well-known correlations for the condensation of saturated vapor, including the most recent ones, were compared with data for 51 pure fluids and mixtures from 132 sources in horizontal and vertical channels of many shapes. Channel hydraulic diameters were 0.08–49 mm, the mass flux was 1.1–1400 kg/m2s, and the reduced pressure range was 0.0006–0.949. The fluids included water, CO2, ammonia, hydrocarbons, halocarbon refrigerants, various chemicals, and heat transfer fluids. The best predictive technique was identified. The three most commonly used models for heat transfer during the condensation of superheated vapors were studied. They were first compared with test data using measured saturated condensation and forced convection heat transfer coefficients to select the best model. The selected model was then compared with test data using various correlations for heat transfer coefficients needed in the model. The best correlations to use in the model were identified. The results of this research are presented, as are recommendations for use in design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Correlation coefficients for 5%‐damped spectral accelerations (SAs) of horizontal ground‐motion components have been extensively studied and applied in probabilistic seismic analysis using vector‐valued intensity measures (IMs). Such correlations are, however, not sufficient for structures with different damping ratios under multidirectional earthquake shakings. This paper presents a comprehensive study on the correlations between horizontal‐horizontal (H‐H), horizontal‐vertical (H‐V), and vertical‐vertical (V‐V) pairs of SAs for different damping ratios based on the NGA‐West2 ground motion database. The correlations of SAs with peak ground acceleration (PGA) and peak ground velocity (PGV) are also investigated. The uncertainty in correlations is measured by integrating the bootstrap method into the logic‐tree framework. Comparative results indicate that the correlation coefficients generally increase for IMs of larger damping ratios. The relative difference between the damping‐dependent and conventional 5%‐damped correlation coefficients can be notable, reaching 100% and 35% in the SA‐SA and SA‐PGV (or PGA) pairs, respectively. Based on the empirical correlation results, an artificial neural network is utilized to develop parametric models of the correlations and the executive files for implementing these models are provided. The ANN‐aided damping‐dependent correlation models developed can be considered as a generalization of the conventional 5%‐damped correlation models, and may serve as useful tool in applications such as ground‐motion selection and vector‐valued probabilistic seismic risk assessment for structure systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The scientific basis is established for selecting the fewest surface roughness characteristics in machining by the following methods: turning, face milling, surface grinding, and polishing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As highlighted by Pop & Georgescu (2024), the Romanian academic literature concerning municipal bonds is sparse, while the investigations regarding the factors that can influence the sub-sovereign bond trading at Bucharest Stock Exchange is quasi non-existent, to the best of authors’ knowledge. The present paper continues the work of Pop & Georgescu (2024) by trying to identify which of the public available information regarding various interest rates and Bucharest Stock Exchange (henceforth BVB) indices returns influence the trading activity of municipal bond market segment. The correlations presented within this paper imply that the modest profile of municipal bond segment at BVB is related to a relative small number of individual investors that dominate the transactions, using mostly observed data to decided when to trade and what to trade. The scarce correlations that appear in relation with the trading volume and trading value point toward the idea that only a small portion of the listed municipal bonds are owned by individual investors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: We evaluate morphological and functional correlations in patients with acute central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC). Methods: A prospective study was conducted on 50 patients with an acute CSC episode lasting less than 3 months. At baseline, assessments included optical coherence tomography (OCT), best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), contrast sensitivity (CS), microperimetry (MP), and multifocal electroretinography (mfERG). A correlation analysis between OCT morphological parameters (maximal subretinal fluid height (SRF), central retinal thickness (CRT), and macular volume (MV)) and functional parameters was conducted on the affected eye for each patient. Results: Among the morphological parameters, SRF showed the strongest correlations with functional parameters (r absolute value range = 0.10–0.70). Weak correlations were observed between BCVA and morphological parameters (r absolute value range = 0.14–0.26). Average retinal sensitivity (MP-A) was the functional parameter displaying the most robust negative correlation with morphological parameters (r absolute value range = 0.61–0.70). In contrast, average contrast sensitivity (CS-A) and mfERG average amplitude density in the first (mfERG-A1) and second (mfERG-A2) ring showed weak to moderate (r absolute value range = 0.35–0.56) yet statistically significantly nonzero correlations. Conclusions: SRF and CRT could serve as the most representative morphological proxies for visual function deficit in acute CSC patients. Retinal sensitivity, as measured by MP, may be superior to BCVA in clinical research studies or when an in-depth visual function evaluation is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The geotechnical characterisation of offshore wind farm sites requires measurement or estimation of the small-strain shear stiffness G max of the subsoil. This parameter can be derived from shear wave velocity V s measurements if the bulk density of the soil is known. Since direct measurements of V s are generally not available at all foundation locations in a wind farm, correlations with cone penetration test (CPT) results are often used to determine location-specific stiffness parameters for foundation design. Existing correlations have mostly been calibrated to onshore datasets which may not contain the same soil types and stress conditions found in the North Sea. The distinct geological history of the North Sea necessitates a critical review of these existing CPT-based correlations. They are evaluated against an extensive database of in situ V s measurements in the southern North Sea. The importance of modelling the stress-dependent nature of V s is highlighted, and a novel stress-dependent model for V s from CPT data, which leads to an improved fit, is presented. As the small-strain stiffness is used as an input to foundation response calculations, the model uncertainty of the correlation can introduce significant uncertainty into the resulting foundation response. This transformation uncertainty is quantified for each of the correlations evaluated in this study and shows important variations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]