bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research on the decision-making of work safety investment in industrial park enterprises: evidence from behavioral experiments
Authors: Liu SuXia , Bao Shuyue , Yang Daojian , Zhang Jingjing
Published: February 2024

Due to the clustering of risk factors, industrial park safety accidents can easily trigger a domino effect. Work safety investment is the foundation of enterprise work safety in industrial parks. Therefore, increasing the work safety investment of enterprises in industrial parks is the key condition to prevent accidents. However, due to the typical negative externalities of industrial park work safety accidents, the decision-making process of work safety in park enterprises is influenced by other enterprises within the park, including imitation behaviors. This makes the decision-making of work safety in park enterprises very specific. In order to clarify the influencing factors and effects of work safety investment in industrial park enterprises, this study uses a behavioral experiment method and conducts decision-making experiments using the experimental platform O-Tree. The study recruits 76 participants who play the role of decision-makers in park enterprises. This study uses a lottery price experiment and a dictator experiment to measure the risk preference and altruism preference of the participants, respectively. The study introduces the real background of work safety investment in industrial park enterprises and collects data on work safety investment by the participants in different experimental scenarios. The research results show that the safety attitudes of decision-makers, altruism preference, accident experience, government work safety supervision, park management measures, and safety benefits positively influence work safety investment in park enterprises. The risk preference of decision-makers and the resource capability of work safety negatively influence work safety investment in park enterprises. Work safety investment in park enterprises is influenced by the work safety investment of other enterprises within the park.
Exploring the potential of the sit-to-stand test for self-assessment of physical condition in advanced knee osteoarthritis patients using computer vision
Authors: Zhao Zhengkuan , Yang Tao , Qin Chao , Zhao Mingkuan , Zhao Fuhao , Li Bing , Liu Jun
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a prevalent condition often associated with a decline in patients’ physical function. Objective self-assessment of physical conditions poses challenges for many advanced KOA patients. To address this, we explored the potential of a computer vision method to facilitate home-based physical function self-assessments.

Methods

We developed and validated a simple at-home artificial intelligence approach to recognize joint stiffness levels and physical function in individuals with advanced KOA. One hundred and four knee osteoarthritis (KOA) patients were enrolled, and we employed the WOMAC score to evaluate their physical function and joint stiffness. Subsequently, patients independently recorded videos of five sit-to-stand tests in a home setting. Leveraging the AlphaPose and VideoPose algorithms, we extracted time-series data from these videos, capturing three-dimensional spatiotemporal information reflecting changes in key joint angles over time. To deepen our study, we conducted a quantitative analysis using the discrete wavelet transform (DWT), resulting in two wavelet coefficients: the approximation coefficients (cA) and the detail coefficients (cD).

Results

Our analysis specifically focused on four crucial joint angles: “the right hip,” “right knee,” “left hip,” and “left knee.” Qualitative analysis revealed distinctions in the time-series data related to functional limitations and stiffness among patients with varying levels of KOA. In quantitative analysis, we observed variations in the cA among advanced KOA patients with different levels of physical function and joint stiffness. Furthermore, there were no significant differences in the cD between advanced KOA patients, demonstrating different levels of physical function and joint stiffness. It suggests that the primary difference in overall movement patterns lies in the varying degrees of joint stiffness and physical function among advanced KOA patients.

Discussion

Our method, designed to be low-cost and user-friendly, effectively captures spatiotemporal information distinctions among advanced KOA patients with varying stiffness levels and functional limitations utilizing smartphones. This study provides compelling evidence for the potential of our approach in enabling self-assessment of physical condition in individuals with advanced knee osteoarthritis.
HIV counseling, testing, and test result receipt among East African women of reproductive age using recent national health surveys
Authors: Terefe Bewuketu
Published: February 2024

Introduction

One of the most important public health concerns is still the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), particularly in developing countries. Although HIV testing is an important step in both prevention and treatment, its uptake remains low, and no study has looked into the scale of HIV counseling, testing, and test result receipt among East African women all at the same time. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate HIV counseling, testing, and test result receipt, as well as the factors that influence them, among East African women.

Methods

This analysis used Demographic and Health Survey data collected from 10 East African countries between 2011 and 2022. We examined the coverage of HIV counseling, testing, and test result receipt among East African women, as well as other characteristics. To select candidate factors and identify significant explanatory variables related to the outcome variable, binary and multiple logistic regression analyses were conducted, and the results were presented using adjusted odds ratios (AORs) with 95% confidence intervals. In the binary and multiple logistic regression analyses, P values of less than or equal to 0.2 and <0.05 were used to assess significant variables, respectively.

Results

A total of 41,627 weighted women included to this study. HIV counseling, testing, and test result receipt among East African women were found to be 77.86% (95% CI = 77.46, 78.26). Being 25–34 years old (AOR = 1.13, 95% CI, 1.06, 1.21), 35–49 years old (AOR = 1.15, 95% CI, 1.05, 1.26) as compared to 15–24 years old women, primary education (AOR = 1.75, 95% CI, 1.64, 1.86), secondary/higher education level (AOR = 1.96, 95% CI, 1.82, 2.13) as compared to not educated women, poor, (AOR = 1.22, 95% CI, 1.14, 1.29), middle wealth (AOR = 1.12, 95% CI, 1.04, 1.21) as compared to rich wealth index, mass media exposure (AOR = 1.29, 95% CI, 1.22, 1.35), 3–5 parity (AOR = 1.29, 95% CI, 1.21, 1.37), more than 5 parity (AOR = 1.46, 95% CI, 1.33, 1.61) as compared to <3 parity, health institution delivery (AOR = 1.65, 95% CI, 1.53, 1.76), were associated positively with the outcome variable respectively. However, being married (AOR = 0.79, 95% CI, 0.72, 0.87), not using contraceptive (AOR = 0.58, 95% CI, 0.51, 0.61), and traditional contraceptive method user (AOR = 0.47, 95% CI, 0.41, 0.54) as compared to modern users were associated negatively with outcome variable respectively.

Conclusion

This study found that HIV counseling, testing, and test result receipt are still unsatisfactory. Strengthening maternal health services such as institutional delivery, family planning, and women's empowerment, as well as changing mass media and taking advantage of these opportunities, will boost the region's coverage of HIV counseling, testing, and obtaining results.
Adsorption methods for arsenic removal in water bodies: a critical evaluation of effectiveness and limitations
Authors: Mojiri Amin , Razmi Elham , KarimiDermani Bahareh , Rezania Shahabaldin , Kasmuri Norhafezah , Vakili Mohammadtaghi , Farraji Hossein
Published: February 2024

The presence of arsenic in water bodies poses a significant risk to both human health and the environment. Arsenic (As) contamination in water sources is a global environmental concern caused by both natural processes and human activities. Due to its toxic and persistent nature, arsenic has detrimental effects on ecosystems and human wellbeing. This study aimed to elucidate the mechanisms behind arsenic accumulation in water bodies. In aquatic environments, arsenic concentrations in drinking water have been reported as high as 1,320 μg/L (Nicaragua), while groundwater levels exceeded 5,000 μg/L (Thailand), and wastewater contained up to 134,000 μg/L (landfill leachate in Brazil). Furthermore, bioaccumulation of arsenic (μg/g) in fish species ranges from 0.4 (catfish in the Paraná River Delta, Brazil) to 362 (Pteromylaeus bovinus, Northern Adriatic Sea). Recent research has predominantly focused on removing arsenic from aqueous solutions through adsorption methods. Notably, nanoparticle adsorbents and graphene-based adsorbents demonstrate a high capacity for arsenic removal from water bodies.
Effects of Environmental Enrichments on Welfare and Hepatic Metabolic Regulation of Broiler Chickens
Authors: Kang Seong W. , Christensen Karen D. , Jr. Michael T. Kidd , Orlowski Sara K.
Published: February 2024

The aims of this study were to find suitable environmental enrichment (EE) and evaluate the combined effect of two EEs, variable light intensity (VL) lighting program and EH, on mental health and hepatic metabolic regulation in commercial broilers. To find the advantageous EEs for broilers, three different EEs (board, hut, and ramp) were tested in trial 1. EEs were placed and the engagement of birds to EEs, dustbathing behavior, and daily physical activity were observed. Birds treated with huts showed higher engagement than the board- or ramp-treated birds (p < 0.05). The results of dustbathing behavior and daily physical activity indicated that the environmental hut (EH) is the most favorable enrichment for broilers. In the second trial, to test the effect of EHs on mental health and hepatic metabolic conditions, the brain and liver were sampled from the four treatment birds (20 lx_Con, 20 lx_Hut, VL_Con and VL_Hut) on day 42. The lower expression of TPH2 (tryptophan hydroxylase 2) of VL_Hut birds than those of VL_Con and 20 lx_Hut treated birds suggests the combining effect of EHs with the VL lighting program on the central serotonergic homeostasis of broilers. Reduced expressions of TH (tyrosine hydroxylase), GR (glucocorticoid receptor), BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) of VL_Hut treated birds compared to those of VL_Con and 20 lx_Hut birds suggest lower stress, stress susceptibility, and chronic social stress in VL_Hut treated birds. The expression of CPT1A (carnitine palmitoyl transferase 1) increased over three-fold in the liver of VL_Con birds compared to 20 lx_Con birds (p < 0.05). EHs treatment in VL birds (VL_Hut) significantly decreased CPT1A but not in 20 lx birds (20 lx_Hut). The expression of ACCα (acetyl-CoA carboxylase alpha) was significantly decreased in VL_Con birds compared to 20 lx_Con birds. There was no significant difference in the hepatic FBPase (fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase), GR, and 11β-HSD1 (11 β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenease-1) expression between 20 lx_Con and VL_Con birds, but EHs significantly stimulated GR in 20 lx_Hut birds, and stimulated FBPase and 11β-HSD1 expression in the VL_Hut birds compared to 20 lx_Con birds, suggesting that the VL lighting program reduced fatty acid synthesis and increased fatty acid β-oxidation in the broilers’ liver and VL_Hut improved the hepatic de novo glucose production. Taken together, the results suggest that the stimulated voluntary activity by EHs in the light-enriched broiler house improved mental health and hepatic metabolic function of broilers and may indicate that the improved hepatic metabolic function contributes to efficient nutritional support for broilers.
Extended Infusion of Beta-Lactams and Glycopeptides: A New Era in Pediatric Care? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Burch Andrea Rahel , von Arx Lukas , Hasse Barbara , Neumeier Vera
Published: February 2024

Optimizing antibiotic therapy is imperative with rising bacterial resistance and high infection mortality. Extended infusion defined as a continuous infusion (COI) or prolonged infusion (PI) of beta-lactams and glycopeptides might improve efficacy and safety compared to their intermittent administration (IA). This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of extended infusion in pediatric patients. Adhering to Cochrane standards, we conducted a systematic review with meta-analysis investigating the efficacy and safety of COI (24 h/d) and PI (>1 h/dose) compared to IA (≤1 h/dose) of beta-lactams and glycopeptides in pediatrics. Primary outcomes included mortality, clinical success, and microbiological eradication. Five studies could be included for the outcome mortality, investigating meropenem, piperacillin/tazobactam, cefepime, or combinations of these. The pooled relative risk estimate was 0.48 (95% CI 0.26–0.89, p = 0.02). No significant differences between the administration modes were found for the outcomes of clinical success, microbiological eradication (beta-lactams; glycopeptides), and mortality (glycopeptides). No study reported additional safety issues, e.g., adverse drug reactions when using COI/PI vs. IA. Our findings suggest that the administration of beta-lactams by extended infusion leads to a reduction in mortality for pediatric patients.
Effects of Nesting Material Provision and High-Dose Vitamin C Supplementation during the Peripartum Period on Prepartum Nest-Building Behavior, Farrowing Process, Oxidative Stress Status, Cortisol Levels, and Preovulatory Follicle Development in Hyperprolific Sows
Authors: Shin Hyeonwook , Lee Juho , Kim Junsik , Lee Geonil , Yun Jinhyeon
Published: February 2024

Hyperprolific sows often experience increased oxidative stress during late gestation and lactation periods, which can adversely affect the farrowing process and overall lactation performance. This study examines the influence of providing a coconut coir mat (CCM; 1 × 1 m) as nesting material, supplementing high-dose vit-C (HVC; 20% vit-C, 10 g/kg feed) as an antioxidant, or both on maternal behavior, the farrowing process, oxidative status, cortisol levels, and preovulatory follicle developments in sows with large litters. In total, 35 sows (Landrace × Yorkshire; litter size 15.43 ± 0.27) were allocated to the following four treatment groups: control (n = 9, basal diet), vit-C (n = 8, basal diet + HVC), mat (n = 10, basal diet + CCM), and mat + vit-C (n = 8, basal diet + HVC + CCM). A post-hoc analysis showed that compared with sows that were not provided CCM, mat and mat + vit-C groups demonstrated increased durations of nest-building behavior during the period from 24 h to 12 h before parturition (p < 0.05 for both), reduced farrowing durations, and decreased intervals from birth to first udder contact (p < 0.01 for both). The mat group exhibited lower advanced oxidation protein product (AOPP) levels during late gestation and lactation periods than the control group (p < 0.05). Sows with HVC supplementation showed longer farrowing durations than those without HVC supplementation (p < 0.0001). The vit-C group had higher salivary cortisol levels on day 1 after farrowing than the other treatment groups (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the follicle diameters on day 3 after weaning in the vit-C group tended to be smaller than those in the control group (p = 0.077). HVC supplementation prolonged farrowing and increased the physiological stress on postpartum, and no advantageous effects on maternal behavior and developmental progression of preovulatory follicles were observed. Hence, alternative solutions beyond nutritional approaches are required to address increased oxidative stress in hyperprolific sows and secure their welfare and reproductive performance. The present results substantiated the positive impact of providing CCM as nesting material for sows with large litters on nest-building behavior and the farrowing process, which could mitigate the deleterious consequences induced by peripartum physiological and oxidative stress.
Cell-Cycle Synchronization Prior to Radiotherapy: A Mathematical Model of the Use of Gemcitabine on Melanoma Xenografts
Authors: Rentzeperis Frederika , Coleman Benjamin , Wallace Dorothy
Published: February 2024

Radiotherapy can differentially affect the phases of the cell cycle, possibly enhancing suppression of tumor growth, if cells are synchronized in a specific phase. A model is designed to replicate experiments that synchronize cells in the S phase using gemcitabine before radiation at various doses, with the goal of quantifying this effect. The model is used to simulate a clinical trial with a cohort of 100 individuals receiving only radiation and another cohort of 100 individuals receiving radiation after cell synchronization. The simulations offered in this study support the statement that, at suitably high levels of radiation, synchronizing melanoma cells with gemcitabine before treatment substantially reduces the final tumor size. The improvement is statistically significant, and the effect size is noticeable, with the near suppression of growth at 8 Gray and 92% synchronization.
Decompositions of the λ-Fold Complete Mixed Graph into Mixed 6-Stars
Authors: Gardner Robert , Kosebinu Kazeem
Published: February 2024

Graph and digraph decompositions are a fundamental part of design theory. Probably the best known decompositions are related to decomposing the complete graph into 3-cycles (which correspond to Steiner triple systems), and decomposing the complete digraph into orientations of a 3-cycle (the two possible orientations of a 3-cycle correspond to directed triple systems and Mendelsohn triple systems). Decompositions of the λ-fold complete graph and the λ-fold complete digraph have been explored, giving generalizations of decompositions of complete simple graphs and digraphs. Decompositions of the complete mixed graph (which contains an edge and two distinct arcs between every two vertices) have also been explored in recent years. Since the complete mixed graph has twice as many arcs as edges, an isomorphic decomposition of a complete mixed graph into copies of a sub-mixed graph must involve a sub-mixed graph with twice as many arcs as edges. A partial orientation of a 6-star with two edges and four arcs is an example of such a mixed graph; there are five such mixed stars. In this paper, we give necessary and sufficient conditions for a decomposition of the λ-fold complete mixed graph into each of these five mixed stars for all λ>1.
Comment on Umemoto et al. Management of Migraine-Associated Vestibulocochlear Disorders. Audiol. Res. 2023, 13, 528–545
Authors: Theodorou Daphne J. , Theodorou Stavroula J. , Mitsios Vasilios
Published: February 2024

We read with great interest the recent article by Umemoto, K. [...]
Electroacupuncture Reduces Fibromyalgia Pain via Neuronal/Microglial Inactivation and Toll-like Receptor 4 in the Mouse Brain: Precise Interpretation of Chemogenetics
Authors: Tsai Sheng-Ta , Yang Chia-Chun , Liao Hsien-Yin , Lin Yi-Wen
Published: February 2024

Fibromyalgia (FM) is a complex, chronic, widespread pain syndrome that can cause significant health and economic burden. Emerging evidence has shown that neuroinflammation is an underlying pathological mechanism in FM. Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are key mediators of the immune system. TLR4 is expressed primarily in microglia and regulates downstream signaling pathways, such as MyD88/NF-κB and TRIF/IRF3. It remains unknown whether electroacupuncture (EA) has therapeutic benefit in attenuating FM pain and what role the TLR4 pathway may play in this effect. We compared EA with sham EA to eliminate the placebo effect due to acupuncture. We demonstrated that intermittent cold stress significantly induced an increase in mechanical and thermal FM pain in mice (mechanical: 2.48 ± 0.53 g; thermal: 5.64 ± 0.32 s). EA but not sham EA has an analgesic effect on FM mice. TLR4 and inflammatory mediator-related molecules were increased in the thalamus, medial prefrontal cortex, somatosensory cortex (SSC), and amygdala of FM mice, indicating neuroinflammation and microglial activation. These molecules were reduced by EA but not sham EA. Furthermore, a new chemogenetics method was used to precisely inhibit SSC activity that displayed an anti-nociceptive effect through the TLR4 pathway. Our results imply that the analgesic effect of EA is associated with TLR4 downregulation. We provide novel evidence that EA modulates the TLR4 signaling pathway, revealing potential therapeutic targets for FM pain.
Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation Decreases P3 Amplitude and Inherent Delta Activity during a Waiting Impulsivity Paradigm: Crossover Study
Authors: Mendes Augusto J. , Galdo-Álvarez Santiago , Lema Alberto , Carvalho Sandra , Leite Jorge
Published: February 2024

The inability to wait for a target before initiating an action (i.e., waiting impulsivity) is one of the main features of addictive behaviors. Current interventions for addiction, such as transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS), have been suggested to improve this inability. Nonetheless, the effects of tDCS on waiting impulsivity and underlying electrophysiological (EEG) markers are still not clear. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of neuromodulation over the right inferior frontal gyrus (rIFG) on the behavior and EEG markers of reward anticipation (i.e., cue and target-P3 and underlying delta/theta power) during a premature responding task. For that, forty healthy subjects participated in two experimental sessions, where they received active and sham tDCS over the rIFG combined with EEG recording during the task. To evaluate transfer effects, participants also performed two control tasks to assess delay discounting and motor inhibition. The active tDCS decreased the cue-P3 and target-P3 amplitudes, as well as delta power during target-P3. While no tDCS effects were found for motor inhibition, active tDCS increased the discounting of future rewards when compared to sham. These findings suggest a tDCS-induced modulation of the P3 component and underlying oscillatory activity during waiting impulsivity and the discounting of future rewards.
Infrequent Presentations of Chronic NPM1-Mutated Myeloid Neoplasms: Clinicopathological Features of Eight Cases from a Single Institution and Review of the Literature
Authors: Castaño-Díez Sandra , Guijarro Francesca , López-Guerra Mònica , Pérez-Valencia Amanda Isabel , Gómez-Núñez Marta , Colomer Dolors , Díaz-Beyá Marina , Esteve Jordi , Rozman María
Published: February 2024

Non-acute myeloid neoplasms (MNs) with NPM1 mutations (NPM1mut-MNs) pose a diagnostic and therapeutic dilemma, primarily manifesting as chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML) and myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). The classification and treatment approach for these conditions as acute myeloid leukemia (AML) are debated. We describe eight cases of atypical NPM1mut-MNs from our institution and review the literature. We include a rare case of concurrent prostate carcinoma and MN consistent with chronic eosinophilic leukemia, progressing to myeloid sarcoma of the skin. Of the remaining seven cases, five were CMML and two were MDS. NPM1 mutations occur in 3–5% of CMML and 1–6% of MDS, with an increased likelihood of rapid evolution to AML. Their influence on disease progression varies, and their prognostic significance in non-acute MNs is less established than in AML. Non-acute MNs with NPM1 mutations may display an aggressive clinical course, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive diagnosis integrating clinical and biological data. Tailoring patient management on an individualized basis, favoring intensive treatment aligned with AML protocols, is crucial, regardless of blast percentage. Research on the impact of NPM1 mutations in non-acute myeloid neoplasms is ongoing, requiring challenging prospective studies with substantial patient cohorts and extended follow-up periods for validation.
Reasons for Treatment Discontinuation and Their Effect on Outcomes of Immunotherapy in Southwest Finland: A Retrospective, Real-World Cohort Study
Authors: Virtanen Saana , Pihlman Heidi , Silvoniemi Maria , Vihinen Pia , Jaakkola Panu , Mattila Kalle E.
Published: February 2024

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) have improved survival in several cancer types. Still, most patients develop disease progression during or after treatment. We evaluated the reasons for treatment discontinuation and their effect on treatment outcomes in adult patients with advanced cancer with ICI in the first or later treatment lines in Southwest Finland between 1 January 2015 and 31 December 2021. Baseline characteristics and treatment outcomes were retrospectively obtained from the electronic medical records. There were 317 patients with 15 different cancer types, most commonly non-small cell lung cancer, melanoma, and kidney cancer, treated with ICI outside clinical trials. During follow-up, 94% of the patients had discontinued treatment. A total of 62% was due to disease progression, 17% due to immune-related adverse events (irAEs), 12% after achieving disease control or radiological response, and 9% due to poor performance status. The median progression-free survival (mPFS) was 5.4 months and the median overall survival (mOS) was 20.3 months in the whole cohort. Longer mPFS and mOS were observed in patients who discontinued ICI due to irAEs (24.3 and 49.2 months) and after disease control (49.7 months and not reached). In total, 46% of the patients who discontinued ICI after irAEs or disease control remained alive and progression-free during follow-up.
Risk Factors and Environmental Preventive Actions for Aspergillosis in Patients with Hematological Malignancies
Authors: Raposo Puglia Daniel , Raposo Puglia José , García-Cabrera Emilio , Morales Fátima , Camacho-Vega Juan , Vilches-Arenas Ángel
Published: February 2024

(1) Background: Aspergillus spp. is a widely distributed filamentous fungus in the environment due to its high sporulation capacity. Currently, invasive aspergillosis (IA) is the most common invasive fungal infection in patients with hematologic malignancies, with high rates of mortality and morbidity. The multifactorial nature of the disease requires appropriate risk stratification to enable the most appropriate preventive measures to be adapted and implemented according to the characteristics of the patient. In this sense, the present research aims to identify recent risk factors and environmental control measures against invasive aspergillosis to establish preventive actions to reduce the incidence of invasive aspergillosis in hospitals. (2) Methods: We conducted a qualitative systematic review of the scientific literature on environmental risk factors and preventive measures for invasive aspergillosis in patients with hematologic malignancies. The Medline, Cochrane, and Scopus databases were consulted, following the PRISMA and STROBE guidelines. (3) Results: Adequate implementation of environmental control measures is presented as the most efficient intervention in terms of prevention to decrease the incidence of invasive aspergillosis in hospitals. Neutropenia, fungal contamination, insufficient environmental control measures in hospital and home settings, length of hospital stay, and anemia, are identified as independent risk factors. We show that HEPA, LAF, and Plasmair® systems are suitable methods to reduce the concentration of airborne fungal spores. Antifungal prophylaxis did not significantly influence IA reduction in our study. (4) Conclusions: Proper professional training and environmental control measures in hospitals are essential for the prevention of invasive aspergillosis. We should optimize risk stratification for patients with hematologic malignancies. Antifungal prophylaxis should be complementary to environmental control measures and should never be substituted for the latter. Studies should also be undertaken to evaluate the efficiency of environmental control measures against IA at patients’ homes.
Autophagy Genes and Otitis Media Outcomes
Authors: Kim Yong Jun , Rim Hwa Sung , Kim Jeong Hee , Kim Sung Soo , Yeo Joon Hyung , Yeo Seung Geun
Published: February 2024

Otitis media (OM) is a common cause of hearing loss in children that requires corrective surgery. Various studies have investigated the pathomechanisms and treatment of OM. Autophagy, an essential cellular recycling and elimination mechanism implicated in various diseases, is known to play an important role in the pathogenesis of OM. Here, we conducted a literature review on autophagy in OM, highlighting the relationship between expression patterns of autophagy-related factors and pathophysiological and clinical aspects of OM. We summarized the existing research results on the expression of autophagy-related factors in acute OM (AOM), OM with effusion (OME), chronic OM (COM) with cholesteatoma, and COM without cholesteatoma (CholeOM) in animals and humans. Autophagy-related factors are expressed in the middle ear mucosa or fluid of AOM, effusion of OME, granulation tissue of COM, and cholesteatoma of CholeOM. Among ATGs and other autophagy-related factors, the most extensively studied in relation to the pathogenesis of OM are mTOR, LC3II/I, PI3K, Beclin-1, FLIP, Akt, and Rubicon. Expression of autophagy-related factors is associated with AOM, OME, COM, and CholeOM. Inadequate expression of these factors or a decrease/increase in autophagy responses can result in OM, underscoring the critical role of ATGs and related factors in the pathogenesis of OM.
Chaos-Assisted Tunneling
Authors: Reichl Linda E.
Published: February 2024

The ability of particles to “tunnel” through potential energy barriers is a purely quantum phenomenon. A classical particle in a symmetric double-well potential, with energy below the potential barrier, will be trapped on one side of the potential well. A quantum particle, however, can sit on both sides, in either a symmetric state or an antisymmetric state. An analogous phenomenon occurs in conservative classical systems with two degrees of freedom and no potential barriers. If only the energy is conserved, the phase space will be a mixture of regular “islands” embedded in a sea of chaos. Classically, a particle sitting in one regular island cannot reach another symmetrically located regular island when the islands are separated by chaos. However, a quantum particle can sit on both regular islands, in symmetric and antisymmetric states, due to chaos-assisted tunneling. Here, we give an overview of the theory and recent experimental observations of this phenomenon.
Quality of Life of Children from Families Affected by Migration: The Role of Educational Policies
Authors: Matei Aniela , Ghența Mihaela
Published: February 2024

The problems of children from Romanian transnational families represent a current issue and one of great interest in the field of public policies that need to be developed in Romania in order to offer solutions that will lead to an increase in the quality of life within these families. This article reflects, based on the results of a survey among parents/grandparents who care for children from transnational families and two focus groups with authorities/organizations with a role in managing the problems of transnational families, the main issues faced by children from these families within education. The results obtained indicate an increased need for intervention in the following areas: support to avoid school dropout; education regarding the negative effects of drug, alcohol and other toxic substance consumption; and supervision in the completion of school assignments. All these problems influence the educational course of children and consequently the quality of life of all family members. This article offers support to decision makers in the field of educational policies to effectively manage the real problems of these families, highlighting the vital role of substantiating public policies based on scientific studies.
Development of a Load Model Validation Framework Applied to Synthetic Turbulent Wind Field Evaluation
Authors: Meyer Paul J. , Huhn Matthias L. , Gottschall Julia
Published: February 2024

The validation of aeroelastic load models used for load calculations on wind turbines substantially increases the confidence in the accuracy and correctness of these models. In this contribution, we introduce a framework for the validation of these models, integrating a normalized area metric as an objective, quantifiable validation metric that considers the entire statistical distribution of a model and a benchmark and additionally enables a comparison of model accuracy between sensors of different physical units. The framework is applied to test cases that evaluate varying synthetic turbulent wind fields. Two test cases with a focus on turbulence parameters and abnormal shear conditions based on comprehensive wind measurements at the Testfeld Bremerhaven are used to demonstrate the workflow with four different members using IEC-compliant and measurement-derived wind field parameters, respectively. Along with these measurements, an uncertainty model for synthetic wind fields is introduced to quantify propagated wind measurement uncertainties associated with the measured boundary conditions during a validation campaign. The framework is presented as a straightforward and concise methodology to not only find but also quantify mismatches of load models. Major mismatches are found for wind fields associated with larger uncertainties in the mean wind field due to a reduced spatial resolution of measurements.
Test Methods for Validating Inductive Transformer Performance during Cable Discharge: Main Principles, Parameters and Testing Procedures
Authors: Grđan Andrea , Žiger Igor , Hanić Zlatko , Tannemaat Imre , Huth Ralf , Novko Ivan
Published: February 2024

High voltage connections will discharge through inductive voltage and combined transformers when they are switched off. In the past, there was a wide margin between the required capabilities and the actual capabilities of these components. Nowadays, however, this aspect is becoming more prominent due to a higher penetration by cable systems into the grid. Currently, none of the relevant international standards contain any definitions or requirements for line discharge, nor test methods which would validate the ability of the transformer to discharge a line of certain capacitance at a certain voltage. This is why the aim of this paper is to provide a foundation for how to specify, assess and verify the capacitive discharge performance of instrument transformers. This paper will present the basic theory, influencing parameters, multiple test sequences and acceptance criteria for cable discharge. It is clear that capacitive discharges present both thermal and mechanical stress to the unit, which is why this paper will detail how to guarantee both aspects. The idea is that this paper serves as a literal blueprint which can then be transferred to the relevant clauses in upcoming international standards. All conclusions within this paper are achieved through calculations and testing on actual 123 kV inductive voltage transformers and combined units.
Modeling Magnetic Fields around Stranded Electrical Transmission Lines via Finite Element Analysis (FEA)
Authors: Osmani Khaled , Schulz Detlef
Published: February 2024

This paper aims to design the fundamental basis for an Unmanned Aerial System (UAS)-driven, remote, and non-invasive current sensing application. Using the COMSOL software, the methodology presented here consists of the Computer Aided Design (CAD) for stranded Transmission Line (TL) geometries composed of 7 to 91 sub-filaments and discretized via tetrahedral-element-based meshes. The radiated Magnetic Field (MF) around each TL is then solved by means of Finite Element Analysis (FEA) after selecting the proper materials for TLs under the coil geometry analysis study. For each TL, all resultant MFs’ norms are presented as tabulated data, with respect to the inducing currents. Eventually, the complex mathematical model needed to evaluate these MFs, radiated around stranded TLs, is surpassed by the scalable models designed through this study. The min/max MFs radiated around each TL resulting from the min/max injected current values are hence obtained. This would serve in the accurate choosing/positioning of magnetic-based sensors in UAS applications, reliably. Additionally, related future works are concretely presented.
Spatial and Temporal Variation in Primary Forest Growth in the Northern Daxing’an Mountains Based on Tree-Ring and NDVI Data
Authors: Wang Bing , Wang Zhaopeng , Zhang Dongyou , Li Linlin , Zhao Yueru , Luo Taoran , Wang Xinrui
Published: February 2024

We used tree-ring width data of Larix gmelinii and Pinus sylvestris var. mongolica from the northern region of the Daxing’an Mountains, China; normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) data; and microtopographic information (elevation, slope direction, slope gradient, and topographic location index) to assess spatiotemporal dynamics in the growth of the boreal forest and topographic patterns of forest decline under the background of climate warming. Forest growth trends were determined based on tree growth decline indicators and NDVI time series trends, and topographic patterns of forest decline were analyzed using the C5.0 decision tree model. More climatic information was present in the radial growth of the trees at higher elevations, and P. sylvestris var. mongolica was influenced strongly by climatic factors of the previous year. Since 1759, tree radial growth trends in the study area have experienced two recessions during 1878–1893 and 1935–1943, which were characterized by persistent narrow whorls of tree rings of below-average growth. Changes in NDVI and tree-ring information were similar, and they together indicate a high risk of declining forest growth in the northern Daxing’an Mountains after 2010, especially at higher elevations. The NDVI time series showed that the high temperatures in 2003 negatively affected forest growth in the study area, which was confirmed by the tree-ring data. The decision tree terrain model results had an accuracy of 0.861, and elevation was the most important terrain factor affecting forest decline. The relative importance of elevation, topographic position index, aspect, and slope was 58.41%, 17.70%, 16.81%, and 7.08%, respectively. Classification rule-based decision tree models can be used to quantify the effects of terrain factors on tree growth. This research methodology can aid the management of regional forestry resources and the conservation of forest resources under the background of climate change, which increases the risk of forest decline.
Oil Frying Processes and Alternative Flour Coatings: Physicochemical, Nutritional, and Sensory Parameters of Meat Products
Authors: Lima Luzia Ellen de Mendonça , Maciel Bruna Leal Lima , Passos Thaís Souza
Published: February 2024

The frying process changes can be desirable and undesirable, involving the physicochemical, nutritional, and sensory aspects, depending on the food and oil properties and the frying process. In this context, alternative flours emerge as a strategy for adding value to the food since they are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, contributing to the variability of ingredients and the full use of food, including residues such as seeds and husks. This narrative review aims to gather current scientific data addressing the alternative flour coatings on breaded meat, mainly chicken, products to evaluate the effects on fried products’ nutritional value, physicochemical parameters, and sensory attributes. Scopus, Science Direct, Springer, and Web of Science search bases were used. This review showed that alternative flours (from cereals, legumes, fruits, and vegetables) used as coatings increase water retention and reduce oil absorption during frying, increase fibers and micronutrient content, which are not present in sufficient quantities in commonly used flours due to the refining process. These flours also reduce gluten consumption by sensitive individuals in addition to favoring the development of desirable sensory characteristics to attract consumers. Therefore, frying processes in oil promote a reduction in humidity, an increase in oil absorption and energy content, and a decrease in vitamin content. In this context, coatings based on alternative flours can reduce these adverse effects of the frying process.
Influence of Storage Temperature on Starch Retrogradation and Digestion of Chinese Steamed Bread
Authors: Li Cheng , Shao Shuaibo , Yi Xueer , Cao Senbin , Yu Wenwen , Zhang Bin , Liu Hongsheng , Gilbert Robert G.
Published: February 2024

Chinese steamed bread (CSB), which is widely consumed in East Asia, usually undergoes storage before consumption, but it is unclear how different storage temperatures affect CSB starch retrogradation and digestion properties, which are important for consumers. CSB was stored for 2 days at 25 °C, 4 °C, −18 °C, 4 °C/25 °C temperature cycling (i.e., 24 h at 4 °C, followed by 24 h at 25 °C) and −18 °C/ 25 °C temperature cycling. The results revealed for the first time that more orderly starch double helices are formed when CSB was stored at 4 °C or 4 °C/25 °C. Storage under −18 °C produced lower amounts of, but more heterogenous, starch double helices, with fewer B-type, but more V-type, crystallites. Compared to other storage temperatures, more long-range intermolecular interactions formed between the starch and protein at 4 °C or 4 °C/25 °C. CSB samples showed the slowest starch digestibility when stored at 4 °C. The impact of storage temperature on the starch retrogradation properties and digestibility of CSB also depended on the wheat variety, attributed to differences in the starch molecular structure. These results have significance and practical applications to help the CSB food industry to control starch retrogradation and digestibility. For example, CSB could be stored at 4 °C for 2 days in order to reduce its starch digestibility.
Morphological Characterization of the Antenna and Scent Patch of Three Danaus Species (Papilionoidea: Nymphalidae, Danainae)
Authors: Yang Yaqi , Ding Linyun , Wang Tong , Liao Huaijian , Tang Chufei
Published: February 2024

The scent system of Danaus is important for the study of butterfly sexual communication and relevant investigations in biomimetics due to its involvement with mimicry. Using light, scanning, and transmission electron microscopy, the morphological characteristics of Danaus’ antennae and scent patches of the scent system for three species, D. chrysippus, D. genutia, and D. plexippus, were investigated herein. Their apical clubs of the flagellums contain sensilla trichodea, sensilla chaetica, and sensilla coeloconica. The scent patch scales typically have a tree-like structure in its lumen at the nano-scale. Comparisons were made between the androconial scales and the other scales in scent patches. Rank sum tests showed significant differences in scent patch scales’ characteristics between the species, as well as in the ultrastructure of antennal segments between species and sexes. Spearman’s correlation tests showed significant correlations between the morphological characteristics of androconial scales in scent patches. Moreover, the antennal characteristics were significantly correlated. The morphological characteristics of the females’ antennae were significantly correlated with those of the males’ antennae and androconial scales. However, the significance and coefficient of these correlations were inconsistent across species and sexes. This study provides fundamental morphological information that helps in understanding the pheromone recognition system of Danaus.
Application of Modified BP Neural Network in Identification of Unmanned Surface Vehicle Dynamics
Authors: Zhang Sheng , Liu Guangzhong , Cheng Chen
Published: February 2024

Over the past few decades, unmanned surface vehicles (USV) have drawn a lot of attention. But because of the wind, waves, currents, and other sporadic disturbances, it is challenging to understand and collect correct data about USV dynamics. In this paper, the Modified backpropagation neural network (BPNN) is suggested to address this issue. The experiment was conducted in the Qinghuai River, and the receiver collected the data. The modified BPNN outperforms the conventional BPNN in terms of ship trajectory forecasting and the rate of convergence. The updated BPNN can accurately predict the rotational velocity during the propeller’s acceleration and stability stages at various rpms.
How Sex Hormones Affect Migraine: An Interdisciplinary Preclinical Research Panel Review
Authors: Godley Frederick , Meitzen John , Nahman-Averbuch Hadas , O’Neal Mary Angela , Yeomans David , Santoro Nanette , Riggins Nina , Edvinsson Lars
Published: February 2024

Sex hormones and migraine are closely interlinked. Women report higher levels of migraine symptoms during periods of sex hormone fluctuation, particularly during puberty, pregnancy, and perimenopause. Ovarian steroids, such as estrogen and progesterone, exert complex effects on the peripheral and central nervous systems, including pain, a variety of special sensory and autonomic functions, and affective processing. A panel of basic scientists, when challenged to explain what was known about how sex hormones affect the nervous system, focused on two hormones: estrogen and oxytocin. Notably, other hormones, such as progesterone, testosterone, and vasopressin, are less well studied but are also highlighted in this review. When discussing what new therapeutic agent might be an alternative to hormone therapy and menopause replacement therapy for migraine treatment, the panel pointed to oxytocin delivered as a nasal spray. Overall, the conclusion was that progress in the preclinical study of hormones on the nervous system has been challenging and slow, that there remain substantial gaps in our understanding of the complex roles sex hormones play in migraine, and that opportunities remain for improved or novel therapeutic agents. Manipulation of sex hormones, perhaps through biochemical modifications where its positive effects are selected for and side effects are minimized, remains a theoretical goal, one that might have an impact on migraine disease and other symptoms of menopause. This review is a call to action for increased interest and funding for preclinical research on sex hormones, their metabolites, and their receptors. Interdisciplinary research, perhaps facilitated by a collaborative communication network or panel, is a possible strategy to achieve this goal.
Target Temperature Management Effect on the Clinical Outcome of Patients with Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest Treated with Extracorporeal Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation: A Nationwide Observational Study
Authors: Kim Jae-Hee , Kim Jae-Guk , Kang Gu-Hyun , Jang Yong-Soo , Kim Wonhee , Choi Hyun-Young , Lee Yoonje , Ahn Chiwon
Published: February 2024

This study aimed to investigate whether targeted temperature management (TTM) could enhance outcomes in patients with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) treated with extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (ECPR) for refractory cardiac arrest. Using a nationwide OHCA registry, adult patients with witnessed OHCA of presumed cardiac origin who underwent ECPR at the emergency department between 2008 and 2021 were included. We examined the effect of ECPR with TTM on survival and neurological outcomes at hospital discharge using propensity score matching and multivariable logistic regression compared with patients treated with ECPR without TTM. Odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals were determined. A total of 399 ECPR cases were analyzed among 380,239 patients with OHCA. Of these, 330 underwent ECPR without TTM and 69 with TTM. After propensity score matching, 69 matched pairs of patients were included in the analysis. No significant differences in survival and good neurological outcomes between the two groups were observed. In the multivariable logistic regression, no significant differences were observed in survival and neurological outcomes between ECPR with and without TTM. Among the patients who underwent ECPR after OHCA, ECPR with TTM did not improve outcomes compared with ECPR without TTM.