bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the association between herbal medicine usage and drug-induced liver injury: insights from a nationwide population-based cohort study using SCCS in South Korea
Authors: Yang Taehyun , Ahn Juhee , Won Sungho , Lee Sanghun
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Drug-induced liver injury (DILI) is a significant health concern caused by exposure to pharmaceuticals, over-the-counter medications, herbal remedies, and dietary supplements. The contribution of prescribed herbal medicines to DILI risk remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the hepatotoxicity risk associated with traditional Korean medicines (TKMs) using nationwide health insurance claims data.

Methods

A tailored cohort of patients diagnosed with DILI (ICD-10 code: K71) between January 2011 and December 2019 was obtained from the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service. After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, 672,411 patients were identified. Using a self-controlled case study (SCCS) design, exposures were defined as hospital/clinic visits or medication prescriptions within a 90-day window. Analyses were conducted across three groups: outpatients, inpatients, and patients with liver disease. Relative incidences of DILI were calculated for different exposure scenarios.

Results

Outpatients showed the highest relative incidences of DILI 3–15 days after visiting Western hospitals/clinics or being prescribed commercial drugs, with risk estimates of 1.55 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.55–1.56) and 2.44 (95% CI: 2.43–2.44), respectively. These risks gradually declined to baseline levels (1.0). All other groups exhibited similar patterns. In contrast, DILI risks associated with TKM hospital/clinic visits and herbal medicine prescriptions were minimal, with relative risks of 1.01 (95% CI: 1.00–1.01) and 0.99 (95% CI: 0.99–0.99), respectively. However, a mildly elevated risk was observed in patients with liver disease.

Conclusion

This nationwide cohort study demonstrates that herbal medicines prescribed by TKM practitioners have minimal impact on DILI risk. Patients with pre-existing liver disease exhibit increased susceptibility to DILI. Differentiating between unregulated herbal products and those prescribed in medical institutions is essential for accurate assessment of hepatotoxicity risk.
Silicosis: from pathogenesis to therapeutics
Authors: Yang Bijun , Liu Xiaoman , Peng Cheng , Meng Xiangjing , Jia Qiang
Published: January 2025

Silicosis is an important occupational lung disease caused by exposure to respirable crystalline silica dust particles, with the clinical manifestations from asymptomatic forms to respiratory failure. The main pathological process involves parenchymal lung injury, inflammation and lung tissue fibrosis, but the exact pathogenesis remains elusive. Until now, there have been no effective treatments for silicosis due to the complexity of pathogenesis and irreversibility of pulmonary fibrosis. In this review we attempt to summarize the advances in pathogenesis and treatment of silicosis and to explore the current understanding of the molecular mechanisms involving in the initiation and development of silicosis and potential therapeutic targets.
Hemoglobin-to-red blood cell distribution width ratio as a protective factor against coronary artery disease: a cross-sectional analysis of NHANES (2011-2018)
Authors: Wang Xin-Da , Li Chaoya , Hu Jia , Cao Fen , Zhu Li , Zhu Yongzhi , Wen Zhongzheng , Liu Jun
Published: January 2025

Background

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the leading cause of death worldwide, and inflammation is a significant factor in its development. While the hemoglobin-to-red blood cell distribution width ratio (HRR), an indicator of inflammation, has been linked to various diseases, its association with CAD is not well established.

Methods

We conducted an analysis using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) spanning from 2011 to 2018. After excluding participants due to age, missing data, and potential confounding factors, 6,881 individuals were included in our study. CAD was identified through self-reported questionnaires, and HRR was determined from laboratory measurements. We controlled for factors such as hypertension, waist circumference, systolic blood pressure, fasting plasma glucose, and others in our logistic regression analysis to explore the relationship between HRR and CAD.

Results

We found that higher HRR levels were associated with a lower risk of CAD. In our fully adjusted model, the odds ratios for CAD for the second, third, and fourth quartiles of HRR were 0.38, 0.42, and 0.51, respectively, compared to the first quartile (P < 0.001). An increase in HRR by one unit was associated with a 49% decrease in the likelihood of CAD. Furthermore, linear regression models indicated a 74% reduction in CAD risk for each one-unit increase in HRR (P = 0.0002). There was a notable threshold at HRR 1.02; beyond this point, each unit increase in HRR was associated with a 91% decrease in CAD odds. This suggests that for individuals with an HRR above 1.02, strategies to increase body water content and reduce blood viscosity could potentially lower their risk of developing CAD.

Conclusion

Our study revealed an inverse linear relationship between HRR and CAD risk, indicating that HRR may serve as a protective factor against CAD.
Activation of KATP channels in pain modulation: a systematic review of preclinical studies
Authors: Beich Signe Schønning , Kokoti Lili , Al-Karagholi Mohammad Al-Mahdi
Published: January 2025

Objective

To systematically review the involvement of KATP channel activation in pain modulation in preclinical studies.

Background

KATP channels are expressed at several levels in the spinal and trigeminal pain pathways, where they seem to modulate nociceptive transmission.

Methods

PubMed and Embase databases were searched until 29 January 2024, using the following search string: [(pain) OR (nociception) OR (antinociception) AND (KATP channel) OR (ATP sensitive potassium channel)]. Non-English and unavailable records, as well as records with non-experimental methodology, were excluded. Inclusion criteria were preclinical studies measuring pain in vivo upon activation of the KATP channel by administering a stimulator or positive modulator. Records were screened based on title and abstract, and those that met the study inclusion criteria were reviewed based on study design, measurements, intervention, and outcomes.

Results

The search resulted in 569 records. In total, 126 duplicates were detected. Subsequently, 438 records were screened by title and abstract, resulting in the exclusion of 396. Based on inclusion criteria, 42 studies were included. The main findings of the present systematic review were that KATP channel openers can attenuate induced pain in various animal models and potentiate the effects of analgesics.

Conclusion

Local, systemic, spinal, and supraspinal activation of KATP channels can attenuate pain and potentiate the efficacy of analgesic drugs. One exception was levcromakalim, as the systemic levcromakalim administration, but not a local application, induced pain. This finding is consistent with those of recent human trials. Future studies should investigate the differences in KATP channel activation between rodents and humans, as well as the differences in activation sites between levcromakalim and other KATP channel openers.
Application of deep learning for real-time detection, localization, and counting of the malignant invasive weed Solanum rostratum Dunal
Authors: Du Shifeng , Yang Yashuai , Yuan Hongbo , Cheng Man
Published: January 2025

Solanum rostratum Dunal (SrD) is a globally harmful invasive weed that has spread widely across many countries, posing a serious threat to agriculture and ecosystem security. A deep learning network model, TrackSolanum, was designed for real-time detection, location, and counting of SrD in the field. The TrackSolanmu network model comprises four modules: detection, tracking, localization, and counting. The detection module uses YOLO_EAND for SrD identification, the tracking module applies DeepSort for multi-target tracking of SrD in consecutive video frames, the localization module determines the position of the SrD through center-of-mass localization, and the counting module counts the plants using a target ID over-the-line invalidation method. The field test results show that for UAV video at a height of 2m, TrackSolanum achieved precision and recall of 0.950 and 0.970, with MOTA and IDF1 scores of 0.826 and 0.960, a counting error rate of 2.438%, and FPS of 17. For UAV video at a height of 3m, the model reached precision and recall of 0.846 and 0.934, MOTA and IDF1 scores of 0.708 and 0.888, a counting error rate of 4.634%, and FPS of 79. Thus, the TrackSolanum supports real-time SrD detection, offering crucial technical support for hazard assessment and precise management of SrD.
Transcriptomic and physiological analyses reveal that cytokinin is involved in the compound leaf development of alfalfa
Authors: Mei Hongyao , Yan Jiajun , Jia Xuexin , Wang Weilin , Li Shuangshuang , Sun Ruiqi , Jiang Hongjiao , Xie Lijun , Zhou Chuanen , Bai Shiqie , Han Lu
Published: January 2025

Alfalfa is one of the primary forages, and its yield is largely dependent on the development of its leaf. In this study, to elucidate the mechanism of compound leaf development, we isolated and examined the alfalfa phenotype Chuancao No.7, exhibiting five leaflets. The agronomic traits of the Chuancao No.7 including the leaf blade area, leaf/stem ratio, total fresh weight, and dry weight showed significant increases compared to those of the wild-type. Analyses of forage quality traits indicated significant differences in crude protein (CP), acid detergent fiber (ADF), crude fat (CF), water-soluble sugars (WSS), carbon content, ash composition content, and phosphorus content between Chuancao No.7 alfalfa and wild-type. Transcriptomic profile analysis revealed that differentially expressed genes were identified in the cytokinin (CK) signaling pathway. Both exogenous treatment and endogenous CK content detection indicated that cytokinin played a key role in the development of the alfalfa compound leaf. These results serve as a valuable resource for optimizing the forage quality and exploring the excellent germplasm of alfalfa.
A new maturity recognition algorithm for Xinhui citrus based on improved YOLOv8
Authors: Deng Fuqin , He Zhenghong , Fu Lanhui , Chen Jianle , Li Nannan , Chen Weibiao , Luo Jialong , Qiao Weilai , Hou Jianfeng , Lu Yongkang
Published: January 2025

Current object detection algorithms lack accuracy in detecting citrus maturity color, and feature extraction needs improvement. In automated harvesting, accurate maturity detection reduces waste caused by incorrect evaluations. To address this issue, this study proposes an improved YOLOv8-based method for detecting Xinhui citrus maturity. GhostConv was introduced to replace the ordinary convolution in the Head of YOLOv8, reducing the number of parameters in the model and enhancing detection accuracy. The CARAFE (Content-Aware Reassembly of Features) upsampling operator was used to replace the conventional upsampling operation, retaining more details through feature reorganization and expansion. Additionally, the MCA (Multidimensional Collaborative Attention) mechanism was introduced to focus on capturing the local feature interactions between feature mapping channels, enabling the model to more accurately extract detailed features, thus further improving the accuracy of citrus color identification. Experimental results show that the precision, recall, and average precision of the improved YOLOv8 on the test set are 88.6%, 93.1%, and 93.4%, respectively. Compared to the original model, the improved YOLOv8 achieved increases of 16.5%, 20.2%, and 14.7%, respectively, and the parameter volume was reduced by 0.57%. This paper aims to improve the model for detecting Xinhui citrus maturity in complex orchards, supporting automated fruit-picking systems.
From deliberation to acclamation: how did Twitter’s algorithms foster polarized communities and undermine democracy in the 2020 US presidential election
Authors: Morales Gustavo , Salazar Augusto , Puche Diego
Published: January 2025

This study explores the profound effects of information and communication technologies (ICT) on contemporary democracy. Focusing on the 2020 US presidential election, this research investigates how Twitter/X structures online communities with specific socialization patterns and ways to construct the truth. The rise of these platforms has sparked debate with split conclusions over whether they are enhancing or undermining democratic processes. Rather than keep digging within this unsolved discussion, this study moves the focus of inquiring toward how ICT affects the very existence of subjects in democracy. This means transitioning from defining ICT solely by its utility as a separate technology that affects behavior to seeing how subjects are entangled in the virtual world created by ICT. Methodologically, the users’ practices on the web are mapped using computational sciences metrics. This study employed Twitter’s Stream API to assemble a dataset encompassing tweets that featured keywords. The descriptive analytics are executed utilizing the Python programming language. In conducting sentiment analysis, this research employed the Twitter-roBERTa-base model. To develop a comprehensive analysis of large interaction datasets, we propose a novel methodology leveraging large language models to automate the classification process. The analysis reveals how algorithmically driven virtual interactions create a “mixed reality,” where virtual and real-world dynamics intersect, leading to increased polarization and the erosion of democratic deliberation. Trump’s defeat marked a collision between users who took to the streets under the banner of a conspiracy theory, which had gained traction as an alternative virtual truth through acclamation as practice, and citizens who use the practice of deliberation over empirical results of the electoral process. This study not only provides empirical evidence on the impact of ICT on democracy but also introduces innovative computational techniques for analyzing large-scale social media data.
Model for home-preschool continuity in linguistically and culturally diverse settings
Authors: Schwartz Mila , Ragnarsdóttir Hanna
Published: January 2025

With the advent of international freedom of movement, we are witnessing a rapid influx of children from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds in mainstream preschools. Preschool education scholars have argued that teachers must work collaboratively with these children’s families to support their “linguistic security” and well-being. The paper presents a conceptual model integrating linguistically and culturally responsive teaching with family funds of knowledge, language education, and family language policies. It highlights the interaction between these constructs that may lead to home-preschool continuity. The model is firmly grounded in three theoretical perspectives: Bronfenbrenner’s ecological model, which emphasizes the importance of the environment in a child’s development; Epstein’s model of parental involvement, which highlights the various ways parents can be involved in their child’s education; and Schwartz’s concept of agency in interactions between teachers and parents, which underscores the importance of mutual understanding and collaboration between these two agents. The model has the potential to guide research focusing on parents’ and teachers’ agency in enacting language policy and addressing cultural values. With its transformative potential, this model opens horizons for practical solutions for the interaction between these agents.
Dispositional mindfulness profiles and psychological symptoms: a latent profile analysis
Authors: Mehrabi Fereshteh , Beshai Shadi
Published: January 2025

Objectives

In this study, we aimed to (1) examine profiles of mindfulness using the short form of the FFMQ (FFMQ-SF), (2) identify the demographic predictor (i.e., sex) of mindfulness profile membership, and (3) examine associations of mindfulness profiles with psychological outcomes (i.e., anxiety and depressive symptoms).

Methods

This cross-sectional study included 604 individuals recruited from Amazon’s Mechanical Turk platform (MTurk). We performed latent profile analyses (LPA) to explore the individual profiles based on scores on dispositional mindfulness facets. Dispositional mindfulness was measured using the Five-Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire-Short Form (FFMQ-SF). Depression was assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). Anxiety symptoms were measured by the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7).

Results

We identified three mindfulness profiles including, Judgmentally Describing, Low Mindfulness, and Non-Judgmentally Describing. Participants in the Low Mindfulness group were more likely to be women compared to the other two profiles (Judgmentally Describing and Non-Judgmentally Describing groups). Participants in the Low Mindfulness group had the highest levels of anxiety and depressive symptoms, whereas individuals in the Non-Judgementally Describing group had the lowest levels of depression and anxiety.

Conclusion

In the present study, we demonstrated three profiles of the FFMQ-SF, which had differential relationships with anxiety and depressive symptoms. Consideration of such profiles may help clinicians to develop more fine-tuned mindfulness-based psychological interventions.
Exploring psychological dimensions of augmented reality in education: a study on learning motivation and achievement in museums
Authors: Cheng Anping , Zhang Weiru , Feng Anran , Wu Yunmengru , Li Wanjun
Published: January 2025

Augmented reality (AR) has gained significant attention and is being increasingly utilized to enrich the learning experience of museum visitors. This study explores the psychological dimensions of AR in education, focusing on learning motivation and academic achievement in museums. A quantitative research study was carried out, encompassing a survey of 266 visitors at the Wuhan Natural History Museum. Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) was employed as the analytical tool to validate the proposed model. The findings reveal significant positive effects of information quality on immersion, imagination, and academic achievement, as well as positive effects of information richness on academic achievement. Information quality mediates the relationship between information richness and immersion/imagination, while immersion and imagination mediate the association between information quality and learning motivation. Additionally, learning motivation positively influences academic achievement. Furthermore, wearable comfort moderates the effect of information quality on immersion and imagination. The study provides theoretical insights into the complex interplay between these variables and their impact on learning motivation and academic achievement. The findings have implications for the design of AR-based learning systems and highlight the importance of considering wearable comfort in enhancing user experiences.
An expert perspective on diversity-oriented standards for assessing sex and gender in clinical research
Authors: Hambruch Hannah R. , Laskowski Nora M. , Juster Robert-Paul , Halbeisen Georg , Paslakis Georgios
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Randomized controlled trials require diverse patient groups to ensure broad applicability of results. However, gender minorities are often not included, which affects the generalizability and equity of healthcare outcomes. Inclusive research must consider the diversity of sex and gender to eliminate inequalities and improve health outcomes.

Methods

A two-stage expert survey was conducted using a self-developed questionnaire in which the constructs of sex, gender, and gender expression were considered. Experts rated the importance and practicality of assessing these concepts in clinical trials and evaluated terms for suitability and comprehension. In addition, existing definitions were refined. Consensus was defined as 70% agreement or disagreement.

Results

14 out of 17 participating experts agreed on the importance to independently assess sex assigned at birth, and 9 out of 16 emphasized this for gender identity in clinical trials. Sex should be assessed with “Please specify your sex assigned at birth” and the answer categories “female”, “male”, “intersex”. Gender identity should be assessed with “I identify as…” and the answer categories “woman”, “man”, “nonbinary”, “trans woman”, “trans man”, “genderqueer”, “genderfluid”, “agender”, “two spirit”. Assessment of gender expression depends on the research question and may not be relevant for every study.

Discussion

Our findings emphasize inclusivity by providing multiple gender options and improve data accuracy by allowing individuals to accurately report their gender identity. The results emphasize the importance of distinguishing between sex assigned at birth, gender identity, and gender expression in research. This ensures that gender diversity is accurately represented and considered, improving the relevance and inclusivity of clinical trials.
Occupational risk factors for sleep quality among Serbian airline pilots
Authors: Stojanović Marko , Nesic Dejan , Maksimović Miloš , Terzić-Šupić Zorica , Todorović Jovana , Topalović Ivana , Vlaisavljević Željko , Ilić Živojinović Jelena
Published: January 2025

Introduction

The ability of airline pilots to maintain a good level of sleep goes a long way in ensuring operational effectiveness with regard to safety as well as personal health. The study assesses the risk factors for sleep quality of airline pilots in Serbia with the objective of determining those factors, both occupational and lifestyle that are paramount in assisting with sleep health.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted on a total of 66 Serbian commercial pilots, and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) was used to assess their sleep quality. Demographic, occupational, lifestyle, biological and psychological variables were obtained through validated questionnaires. Multivariate logistic regression was used to determine the predictors of poor sleep quality (PSQI ≥5).

Results

Overall sleep quality was poor in 65.2% of the participants. Significant factors associated with poor sleep quality included years of experience (OR = 1.17, p = 0.007) and levels of stress (OR = 2.87, p = 0.004). Particular lifestyle variables, including factors such as coffee intake, had initial relationships with sleep quality but were not significant in the multivariate models. With regard to age, a significant univariate association was also revealed but was dropped in the final model because of collinearity with years of experience.

Conclusion

Serbian commercial pilots have a relatively high risk of inadequate sleep associated with years of experience and levels of stress. There is a need to implement organization-wide changes such as stress management schemes in order to improve sleep quality among pilots, and foster prioritizing well-being.
Factors enhancing implementation of occupational safety and health management systems in manufacturing industry of Mutare, Zimbabwe
Authors: Mandowa Johanes , Matsa Mark , Jerie Steven
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Several studies elucidating a plethora of factors that influence establishment of OSH management systems in many industrial sectors have been conducted worldwide. Very few studies have been conducted to explicate factors influencing OSHMS implementation in Southern African countries, particularly in Zimbabwe. The study evaluated factors enhancing implementation of OSH management systems in the manufacturing industry of Mutare.

Methods

A descriptive cross-sectional research design was utilized in the study. Primary data sources were questionnaires and interviews, and secondary data sources were e-OSH databases and past OSH research papers among others.

Results

The results revealed the primary factors that enhance OSHMSs implementation as strong senior management commitment, involvement and support, strong employee involvement and participation, good safety culture, provision of adequate resources among others. Strong senior management commitment, involvement and support was identified as a catalyst of all other factors enhancing implementation of OSHMSs, hence a recommendation is made for employers to invest in programmes aimed at bolstering management commitment, involvement and support to OSH management.

Discussion

Considering that lack of adequate resources emerged as a significant impediment to OSHMS implementation, the study challenges the Government to take a leading role in establishing policies that unlocks various funding mechanisms to support workplaces in overcoming financial barriers in the implementation of OSHMSs. It can be inferred from the study results that employee involvement is central to effective implementation of OSHMSs as it enables the generation of knowledge, ideas and deployment of abilities that are paramount in enhancing OSH management. Inferential statistics also revealed the existence of an association between factory size and implementation of OSHMS. Development of scaled down OSHMSs requirements for small to medium manufacturing companies (SMMCs) is recommended considering the unattractiveness of OSHMSs in SMMCs owing to sustainability challenges. This recommendation places a demand on researchers and OSH stakeholders globally to rethink the current global order for OSHMSs implementation in order to advance an approach to OSHMSs implementation in the SMMCs that is sensitive to contextual compounding factors. The study develops a framework that is key in creating a “preventive safety culture” at workplaces which is an epitome for sustainability in OSHMSs implementation.
Application of the age-period-cohort model in tuberculosis
Authors: Luo Dan , Wang Fengying , Chen Songhua , Zhang Yu , Wang Wei , Wu Qian , Ling Yuxiao , Zhou Yiqing , Li Yang , Liu Kui , Chen Bin
Published: January 2025

Up to now, tuberculosis (TB) remains a global public health problem, posing a serious threat to human health. Traditional methods for analyzing time-varying trends, such as age and period, tend to ignore the poor impact of birth cohorts, which is an important factor in the development of TB. The age-period-cohort (APC) model, a statistical method widely used in recent decades in economics, sociology, and epidemiology, can quantitatively estimate the efficacy of different age, period, and birth cohort groups for TB by separating the effects of these three dimensions and controlling for confounding factors among the time variables. The purpose of this paper is to briefly review the model, focus on the application of the existing APC model in the field of TB, and explain its advantages and disadvantages. This study will help to provides a theoretical basis and reference for using the APC model in TB analysis and prediction.
From classrooms to real-world contexts: enhancing vaccine education through open schooling
Authors: Kwella Hannah , Schilbert Jana , Tessartz Amélie , Scheersoi Annette
Published: January 2025

The topic of vaccination has been a highly debated issue for many years, whether related to measles, HPV, or the recent COVID-19 pandemic. It necessitates deeper exploration, particularly in school biology classes where it is often superficially covered, with ethical considerations rarely addressed. To enable students to engage in an in-depth examination of this complex socio-scientific issue and to enhance their argumentation and decision-making skills, a vaccine educational project was implemented based on the concept of open schooling, where schools collaborate with various societal institutions. Over a three-day interdisciplinary program, secondary school students worked with scientists from diverse fields, including immunobiology, medicine, and ethics, across different career levels, providing varied perspectives. Students actively engaged in real-world learning contexts with authentic problems, fostering individual reflection. A qualitative study, which involved observations and interviews with students, scientists, and teachers, highlighted key success factors in developing student interest and engagement in the topic of vaccination: learner-centered design, interaction with experts, exposure to diverse professional environments, active science learning, and the integration of ethical aspects. This approach promoted not only student engagement with the complex subject matter but also critical thinking and argumentation, contributing to informed decision-making and public health awareness.
Auditory attention decoding based on neural-network for binaural beamforming applications
Authors: Gueta Roy , Zion-Golumbic Elana , Goldberger Jacob , Gannot Sharon
Published: January 2025

Individuals have the remarkable ability to differentiate between speakers and focus on a particular speaker, even amidst complex acoustic environments with multiple speakers, background noise and reverberations. This selective auditory attention, often illustrated by the cocktail party problem, has been extensively researched. With a considerable portion of the population experiencing hearing impairment and requiring hearing aids, there arises a necessity to separate and decode auditory signals artificially. The linearly constrained minimum variance (LCMV) beamforming design criterion has proven effective in isolating the desired source by steering a beam toward the target speaker while creating a null toward the interfering source. Preserving the binaural cues, e.g., interaural time difference (ITFD) and interaural level difference (ILD), is a prerequisite for producing a beamformer output suitable for hearing aid applications. For that, the binaural linearly constrained minimum variance (BLCMV) beamformer generates two outputs that satisfy the standard LCMV criterion while preserving the binaural cues between the left-ear and right-ear outputs. Identifying the attended speaker from the separated speakers and distinguishing it from the unattended speaker poses a fundamental challenge in the beamformer design. Several studies showed the ability to encode essential features of the attended speech from the cortex neural response, as recorded by the electroencephalography (EEG) signals. This led to the development of several algorithms addressing the auditory attention decoder (AAD) task. This paper investigates two neural network architectures for the AAD task. The first architecture leverages transfer learning. It is evaluated using both same-trial and cross-trial experiments. The second architecture employs an attention mechanism between the speech signal represented in the short time Fourier transform (STFT) domain and a multi-band filtered EEG signal. With the goal of alleviating the problem of same-trial overfitting, this architecture employs a new data organization structure that presents the neural network (NN) with a single speaker’s speech and the corresponding EEG signal as inputs. Finally, posterior probability post-processing is applied to the outputs of the NN to improve detection accuracy. The experimental study validates the applicability of the proposed scheme as an AAD method. Strategies for incorporating the AAD into BLCMV beamformer are discussed.
In-situ measurement of residential buildings with hempcrete walls: a case study
Authors: Memari Ali M. , Mirzai Nadia , Hashemi Mahsa , Lu Xinrui , Gracie-Griffin Corey , Yi Hojae , Lowe Sarah Klinetob
Published: January 2025

Given that over 95% of buildings are residential, there is an urgent need for carbon-storing materials and easy-to-construct methods to achieve energy-efficient and low-carbon homes, which can significantly impact CO2 reduction. Industrial hemp, used to produce hempcrete, is a promising construction material. Hempcrete, composed of hemp hurd and fibers mixed with lime and water, is currently used for thermal insulation and lightweight building blocks, intended for use in constructing non-load-bearing walls. With growing interest in hempcrete for home construction and a lack of comprehensive data on its performance, a case study assessed the thermal resistance of walls in a home retrofitted with hempcrete insulation in wood-framed walls. This paper focuses on practical in-situ instrumentation and determination of the thermal resistance of hempcrete walls in a retrofitted house. It also provides some basic background information on hemp and hempcrete. It discusses the practical application of the Heat Flow Meter Method for in-situ measurement of the thermal properties of hempcrete walls. The paper concludes with the developed thermal resistance of retrofitted hempcrete walls based on in-situ testing.
Discovery of conserved peptide-MHC epitopes for directly alloreactive CD8+ T cells
Authors: Hill Alexandra E. , Son Eric T. , Paul-Heng Moumita , Wang Chuanmin , Ratnaseelan Shivanjali , Denkova Martina , Faridi Pouya , Braun Asolina , Purcell Anthony W. , Mifsud Nicole A. , Sharland Alexandra F.
Published: January 2025

Mass Spectrometry allied with in-vivo generation of activated alloreactive T cell populations and tetramer screening facilitates the identification of endogenous peptides that are directly recognised in complex with allogeneic Major Histocompatibility class I (MHC I) molecules by alloreactive CD8+ T cells. We had previously used this approach for the discovery of immunogenic self-peptides presented by the allomorph H-2Kb (Kb). In this study, we identified 22 highly immunogenic self-peptides presented by H-2Kd (Kd). Peptide abundance across skin, spleen and liver samples (estimated as the product of the spectral intensity obtained for these samples) was the principal factor influencing recognition of peptide-Kd epitopes. Predicted binding affinity (BA score) and overall peptide hydrophobicity were also independently correlated with immunogenicity, while there was no significant correlation between the IEDB immunogenicity score and the proportion of T cells recognising a given epitope. Eight peptide-Kd epitopes were selected for inclusion in a tetramer panel to detect directly alloreactive CD8+ T cells. This panel bound over 30% of activated alloreactive CD8+ T cells after a prime-boost against Kd. Moreover, the panel identified alloreactive CD8+ T cells within the graft infiltrate, spleen and draining lymph node during rejection of a Kd-bearing heart graft. In conclusion, small animal studies have demonstrated the feasibility of high-throughput approaches for the discovery of pMHC epitopes recognised by directly alloreactive T cells. Translating this approach to the human setting is achievable and will yield both critical insights into the fundamental basis of alloreactivity and powerful tools for immune monitoring in transplantation.
Public sector involvement in non-state governances for sustainable food systems—a biodiversity perspective
Authors: Shalom Talia , Dayan Tamar , Feitelson Eran
Published: January 2025

The extensive use of natural resources in agri-food systems has widespread effects on biodiversity. Policies advanced to address these effects have largely failed to reduce the rate of biodiversity loss significantly. Current strategies for biodiversity and sustainable food systems increasingly advance two modes of non-governmental governance, Multi-Stakeholder Initiative (MSI) and Voluntary Sustainability Standards (VSS), among their key policy tools. In this paper, we analyze public-private VSS and MSI governances related to biodiversity enhancement and discuss how and whether they have shaped the ground for the wide-scale use of MSIs and VSSs as suggested in post-2020 strategies. Our analysis highlights the importance of governments’ commitment to biodiversity enhancement as a prerequisite for effective and robust governance. We also emphasize the need for innovative regulation to supervise and advance various VSS and MSI simultaneously. Our findings indicate that up to 2020, governments’ main motivations for being involved in food governance were the advancement of food safety regulation or economic development rather than biodiversity enhancement. Accordingly, public involvement in VSS and MSI at the global scale does not necessarily provide rigorous biodiversity protection. In 2020, the EU established a comprehensive strategy for biodiversity and integrated its three-decades-long engagement with organic farming into it as a policy tool. This policy has diffused to local European food policy councils. However, the capital-intensive boost in a single VSS, leaves other biodiversity-oriented initiatives without substantive governmental support.
Systematic Sex-Based Inequity in the MELD Score-Based Allocation System for Liver Transplantation in Germany
Authors: Wiering Leke , Aigner Annette , van Rosmalen Marieke , Globke Brigitta , Dziodzio Tomasz , Raschzok Nathanael , Demir Münevver , Schöning Wenzel , Tacke Frank , Reinke Petra , Pratschke Johann , Öllinger Robert , Ritschl Paul V.
Published: January 2025

In liver allocation systems based on the Model for End-stage Liver Disease (MELD) score, sex inequities have been identified in countries with high organ donation rates. Whether similar inequities exist in regions with average to low donation rates remained unclear. We assessed the impact of sex on transplantation rates, waiting list mortality and post-transplant survival in 25,943 patients waitlisted for liver transplantation in Germany between 2003 and 2017 using competing risk analysis. Women are currently underrepresented on the waiting list (33.3%) and among transplant recipients (31.1%) compared to their proportion of severe liver disease cases (35.1%). The introduction of MELD-based allocation has worsened this disadvantage [HR before: 0.89 (0.81–0.98), after: 0.77 (0.74–0.81)]. Three key factors contribute to this disparity: Women have lower creatinine levels despite worse renal function, reducing their MELD score (median 1, 0–3). Second, exceptional MELD points are more frequently granted to men [HR 1.61 (1.54–1.69) compared to regular allocation]. Third, the small height of women has the highest impact on the probability of not being transplanted [adjusted HR 0.85 (0.81–0.9)]. Even in countries with lower organ donation rates, MELD-based allocation leads to sex inequity. Measures are needed to ensure sex-neutral liver allocation in MELD-based systems worldwide.
Multi-Center Outcome Analysis of 16 Face Transplantations – A Retrospective OPTN Study
Authors: Knoedler Leonard , Schaschinger Thomas , Niederegger Tobias , Hundeshagen Gabriel , Panayi Adriana C. , Cetrulo Curtis L. , Jeljeli Maxime , Hofmann Elena , Heiland Max , Koerdt Steffen , Lellouch Alexandre G.
Published: January 2025

Facial Vascularized Composite Allotransplantation (fVCA) restores form and function for patients with severe facial disfigurements, yet multi-center outcome data remain scarce. We accessed the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN) database from 2008 to 2024 to identify all full- or partial-face fVCA recipients, excluding patients under 18 years and those with physiologically impossible BMIs. Of 25 identified patients, 16 (64%) met inclusion criteria (69% male; mean age 43 ± 14 years). Recipients experienced a median of 5 [IQR 0.0–10] acute rejection episodes, which correlated with inotrope use during donor procurement (p = 0.033). On average, patients were hospitalized 2.4 ± 1.8 times, with arginine vasopressin (AVP) administration linked to fewer hospitalizations (p = 0.035). Seven recipients (44%) experienced complications, and extended-criteria donor (ECD) status was associated with higher complication rates (p = 0.049). These findings underscore the promise of fVCA to address complex facial defects while identifying key risk factors—particularly inotrope use and ECD status, while AVP administration may mitigate hospital stays. Further studies with larger cohorts are warranted to refine perioperative strategies, improve outcomes, and expand the clinical utility of fVCA.
Research on the Accumulative Damage of Flywheels Due to In-Space Charging Effects
Authors: Tian Dong , Feng Yanjun , Su Hongbo , Zeng Xiao , Liu Gang , Liu Yenan , He Jing
Published: January 2025

High-speed rotating flywheel bearings, designed for space applications, generate a high-resistance hydrodynamic lubrication film, which isolates the rotor, transforming it into a conductor. This phenomenon introduces a novel failure mode—flywheel bearing electrical damage caused by space charging effects. This paper first reviews the sources of common shaft voltages in flywheels and the mechanisms of electrical damage and improves the principle of deep charge causing shaft voltages in flywheel bearings, proposing that surface charge is another source of shaft voltages. The quantified analysis model of flywheel bearing electrical damage in relation to rotational speed and high-energy electron flux is derived, indicating that the damage caused by space charge–discharge to the bearing is of small magnitude and only becomes apparent after long-term accumulation, thus being easily overlooked. Based on the causal chain of electrical damage, a correlation analysis model consistent with physical principles is constructed, and the correlation between on-orbit anomalies of the flywheel and high-energy electron flux is confirmed through the use of big data. Preliminary experiments are conducted to validate all of the research results. Finally, suggestions are given for the reliable design, application, and testing of flywheels.
Design and Analysis of Sowing Depth Detection and Control Device for Multi-Row Wheat Seeders Adapted to Different Terrain Variations
Authors: Li Yueyue , Qi Bing , Bao Encai , Tang Zhong , Lian Yi , Sun Meiyan
Published: January 2025

To address the issue of reduced sowing depth detection accuracy caused by varying soil topography during the operation of wheat row drills, an indoor bench test device suitable for wheat row drills was developed. The device integrates a laser sensor and an array sensor for terrain and sowing depth detection. The laser sensor provides the detected sowing depth values, while the array sensor captures different terrain features. The actual sowing depth values are obtained through the indoor experimental setup. The experiment includes three types of terrain: convex, concave, and flat. The terrain slope matrix is obtained using the array sensor, and terrain feature values are extracted. The laser sensor is then used to obtain the detected sowing depth, and the actual sowing depth is manually measured. PCA analysis is conducted to correlate terrain feature values with sowing depth deviations. Results indicate that under different terrain conditions, the slope mean and slope standard deviation are the main components affecting sowing depth deviations. Compared to using a single sensor, this system enables more accurate sowing depth measurement by analyzing terrain features. The device provides valuable data support for controlling sowing depth under varying terrain conditions in subsequent operations.
Morphology-Based In-Ovo Sexing of Chick Embryos Utilizing a Low-Cost Imaging Apparatus and Machine Learning
Authors: Zhang Daniel , Jacobs Leonie
Published: January 2025

The routine culling of male chicks in the laying hen industry raises significant ethical, animal welfare, and sustainability concerns. Current methods to determine chick embryo sex before hatching are costly, time-consuming, and invasive. This study aimed to develop a low-cost, non-invasive solution to predict chick embryo sex before hatching using the morphological features of eggs. A custom imaging apparatus was created using a smartphone and light box, enabling consistent image capture of chicken eggs. Egg length, width, area, eccentricity, and extent were measured, and machine learning models were trained to predict chick embryo sex. The wide neural network model achieved the highest accuracy of 88.9% with a mean accuracy of 81.5%. Comparison of the imaging apparatus to a high-cost industrial 3D scanner demonstrated comparable accuracy in capturing egg morphology. The findings suggest that this method can contribute to the prevention of up to 6.2 billion male chicks from being culled annually by destroying male embryos before they develop the capacity to feel pain. This approach offers a feasible, ethical, and scalable alternative to current practices, with potential for further improvements in accuracy and adaptability to different industry settings.
Risk Factors for Clostridium difficile Infection in Inpatients: A Four-Year (2017–2020) Retrospective Study
Authors: Hsia Chu-Hsuan , Su Hsiu-Yueh , Chien Yi-Wen
Published: January 2025

Background: Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) impact on healthcare systems is concerning due to high treatment cost and increased hospitalization time. We found that the incidence rate of CDI increased annually at Taipei Medical University Hospital (TMUH). The study aimed to establish monitoring indicators for hospitalized patients receiving antibiotics to prevent CDI occurrences. Methods: A case–control study was conducted to identify the risk factors of CDI among patients who were admitted to TMUH and tested for C. difficile. Patient demographics, patient history, and laboratory data were collected and analyzed. Results: Nutrition Risk Screening 2002 score (NRS 2002) in CDI patients was significantly lower than in non-CDI patients (3.1 ± 1.7 vs. 3.5 ± 1.6). The percentage of tube feeding in CDI patients was significantly lower than in non-CDI patients (23.0% vs. 36.7%), whereas parenteral nutrition was higher (8.8% vs. 3.8%). Age (OR = 1.03, p = 0.00), NRS 2002 score (OR =0.86, p = 0.05), comorbidity with cardiovascular disease (OR = 1.73, p = 0.03) or pulmonary disease (OR = 3.72, p = 0.00), patients with tube feeding (OR = 2.02, p = 0.01), and the number of medications (OR = 1.15, p < 0.01) were significant predictors of CDI. Conclusion: This study revealed that nutritional factors, including NRS 2002 scores and feeding routes, were associated with CDI, emphasizing the importance of nutritional factors as key predictors in managing and preventing CDI.
Integrated Geotechnical Analysis of Allophanic Volcanic Ash Soils: SDMT and Laboratory Perspectives
Authors: Sanchez Eddy Fernando , Albuja-Sánchez Jorge , Córdova Maritza
Published: January 2025

The geological study area is volcano-tectonic in nature. Microscopic observations and mineralogical analyses revealed the presence of allophane and diatom clusters whose mineral compositions coincided with weathered andesites and dacites. Edometric consolidation tests showed a high porosity and a reduction in the void ratio by up to five times. These are highly compressible soils with a Cc/Cs ratio of 12 to 15 and a specific gravity (Gs) of 2.4. Low initial bulk density (1.10 Mg/m3), high plasticity, and SUCS (OH) classification are typical of soft soils, with an effective friction angle (ɸ’CD) of 25.5° to 30° and effective cohesion (c’CD) of 11.90 to 47.27 KPa. The shear wave velocity for the first 10 m (Vs10) on average ranged from 78 m/s to 120 m/s, whereas that for the first 30 m (Vs30) was 169 m/s. The permeability, which was calculated indirectly, was between 2 × 10−7 and 3 × 10−8 m/s. With an organic matter content between 5% and 25%, the Caupicho soil is an organic mineral sediment that is not considered peat (non-peat). The results of this study serve as a basis for future analyses of soil dynamics, bearing capacity, and consolidation settlements in the medium and long term in an area of high urban growth in southern Quito, Ecuador.