bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physical-Layer Security for UAV-Assisted Air-to-Underwater Communication Systems with Fixed-Gain Amplify-and-Forward Relaying
Authors: Lou Yi , Sun Ruofan , Cheng Julian , Qiao Gang , Wang Jinlong
Published: November 2022

We analyze a secure unmanned aerial vehicle-assisted two-hop mixed radio frequency (RF) and underwater wireless optical communication (UWOC) system using a fixed-gain amplify-and-forward (AF) relay. The UWOC channel was modeled using a mixture exponential-generalized Gamma distribution to consider the combined effects of air bubbles and temperature gradients on transmission characteristics. Both legitimate and eavesdropping RF channels were modeled using flexible α-μ distributions. Specifically, we first derived both the probability density function (PDF) and cumulative distribution function (CDF) of the received signal-to-noise ratio of the system. Based on the PDF and CDF expressions, we derived the closed-form expressions for the tight lower bound of the secrecy outage probability (SOP) and the probability of non-zero secrecy capacity (PNZ), which are both expressed in terms bivariate Fox’s H-function. To utilize these analytical expressions, we derived asymptotic expressions of SOP and PNZ using only well-known functions. We also used asymptotic expressions to determine the suboptimal transmitting power to maximize energy efficiency. Furthermore, we investigated the effect of levels of air bubbles and temperature gradients in the UWOC channel, and studied the nonlinear characteristics of the transmission medium and the number of multipath clusters of the RF channel on the secrecy performance. Finally, all analyses were validated using a simulation.
Hot Carrier Injection Reliability in Nanoscale Field Effect Transistors: Modeling and Simulation Methods
Authors: Wang Yimin , Li Yun , Yang Yanbin , Chen Wenchao
Published: November 2022

Hot carrier injection (HCI) can generate interface traps or oxide traps mainly by dissociating the Si-H or Si-O bond, thus affecting device performances such as threshold voltage and saturation current. It is one of the most significant reliability issues for devices and circuits. Particularly, the increase in heat generation per unit volume due to high integration density of advanced integrated circuits leads to a severe self-heating effect (SHE) of nanoscale field effect transistors (FETs), and low thermal conductivity of materials in nanoscale FETs further aggravates the SHE. High temperature improves the HCI reliability in the conventional MOSFET with long channels in which the energy of carriers can be relaxed. However, high temperature due to severe SHE deteriorates HCI reliability in nanoscale FETs, which is a big concern in device and circuit design. In this paper, the modeling and simulation methods of HCI in FETs are reviewed. Particularly, some recently proposed HCI models with consideration of the SHE are reviewed and discussed in detail.
Minimizing Leakage Magnetic Field of Wireless Power Transfer Systems Using Phase Difference Control
Authors: Woo Seongho , Shin Yujun , Lee Changmin , Rhee Jaewon , Ahn Jangyong , Moon Jungick , Son Seokhyeon , Lee Sanguk , Kim Hongseok , Ahn Seungyoung
Published: November 2022

In this paper, we propose a method to reduce the leakage magnetic field from wireless power transfer (WPT) systems with series–series compensation topology by adjusting the phase difference between the transmitter (TX) coil current and the receiver (RX) coil current without additional shielding coils or materials. A WPT system employing the proposed method adjusts the phase difference between the TX coil current and RX coil current by tuning a resonant capacitor of the RX coil. The conditions for minimizing the leakage magnetic field are derived, and the range of the resonant capacitor of RX, considering power transfer efficiency and the leakage magnetic field, is proposed. Through simulations and experiments, it is verified that the proposed method can reduce the leakage magnetic field level without any additional materials. For that reason, the proposed method can be suitable for size-limited, weight-limited or cost-limited WPT systems.
Optimal Dispatch of Wind Power, Photovoltaic Power, Concentrating Solar Power, and Thermal Power in Case of Uncertain Output
Authors: Xu Min , Cui Yan , Wang Tao , Zhang Yaozhong , Guo Yan , Zhang Xiaoying
Published: November 2022

The integration of large-scale wind and photovoltaic power into modern power grids leads to an imbalance between the supply and demand for resources of the system, where this threatens the safety and stable operation of the grid. The traditional mode of grid dispatch and the capability of regulation of conventional thermal power units cannot satisfy the demands of grid connection for large-scale renewable energy, where the system requires the compensation and coordinated dispatch of flexible power sources. In light of this problem, this paper establishes a model to quantify the uncertainty in the forecasted outputs of wind and photovoltaic power. This is used to develop forecasts of the output of wind and photovoltaic power for several groups of scenarios, and predictions with the best complementarity are selected as a typical set of scenarios by means of their generation, reduction, and combination. By taking full advantage of the complementarity in the rates of regulation of conventional thermal power and concentrating solar power (CSP), a coordinated model of dispatch for wind power, photovoltaic power, CSP, and thermal power is established for a number of typical combinations of scenarios. The influence of uncertainty in the outputs of wind and photovoltaic power on the dispatch of the power grid is examined, and different modes of dispatch are formulated through simulations to analyze the superiority of the dispatch strategy proposed in this paper in terms of abandoned wind quantity, abandoned solar quantity, and the cost of dispatch.
Historical Review of Advancements in Insulated Cross-Arm Technology
Authors: Ahsan Matiullah , Baharom Md Nor Ramdon Bin , Zainal Zainab , Mahmod Luqman Hakim , Ullah Irshad , Yousof Mohd Fairouz Mohd , Mohd Jamail Nor Akmal , Kamarudin Muhammad Saufi , Rahman Rahisham Abd
Published: November 2022

High-voltage transmission technology has advanced quickly with the overall development and increased use of renewable energy. More demands on the insulating system are made when high-voltage power systems evolve. One of the significant factors is the sharp rise in population density, which led to the high demand for electricity. Right-of-way infringement is a problem that frequently occurs these days. Transmission is done over a rated capacity; as a result, the transmission line heats up, the insulation ages, and the electric field becomes distorted. The insulating system is prone to fail too soon when the operating voltage inverses or when there is a significant temperature differential. Environmentally friendly insulating materials have received much attention recently. A synergistic optimisation of heat resistance properties, mechanical properties, and dielectric properties must be accomplished before these materials can be used in high-voltage transmission systems. They must also withstand harsh electrical and thermal shocks such as overvoltage and short-circuit faults. One of the developments that has become a popular research topic is the constantly evolving tower design. This review article presents advancements in cross-arm technology in high-voltage transmission systems to elaborate on the limitations and contributions of different research work.
The Baltic States’ Move toward a Sustainable Energy Future
Authors: Krūmiņš Jānis , Kļaviņš Māris
Published: November 2022

In respect to CO2 emissions, the post-Soviet states are a scientifically interesting object of research, as each of the countries has developed via different paths since reclaiming independence from the Soviet Union. Given that each country has a different approach to the use of fossil resources, it is essential to assess their input to global carbon footprint individually. Such assessment then allows to find certain actions in the development of legislation and to apply focused techniques to reduce carbon emissions. The aim of this study was to evaluate the fossil CO2 emissions produced in the Baltic States from 1991 onward, describing challenges relating to sustainability and socio-economic, scientific, and integrated approaches to sustainable development, including clean and efficient use of energy, and thus addressing climate challenges. This paper reports on data on CO2 emissions in the Baltic States. The results show that the transition of the Baltic States from the specificities of the Soviet Union’s economy to an economy integrated into global markets has led to a significant reduction in CO2 emissions. However, the development and implementation of national policies for sustainable development are still crucial for mitigation of the climate crisis. Further actions must include the implementation and monitoring of policies for sustainable development, changing of the consumption and production patterns, education and awareness of sustainability, and adaptation to global climate change, while also addressing sustainability challenges.
OSCA Genes in Liriodendron chinense: Characterization, Evolution and Response to Abiotic Stress
Authors: Ke Yongchao , Xu Mingyue , Hwarari Delight , Ahmad Baseer , Li Rongxue , Guan Yuanlin , Chen Jinhui , Yang Liming
Published: November 2022

The hyperosmolality-gated calcium-permeable channels (OSCA) play an imperative role in the plant response to environmental stresses. Moreover, their characteristics in the ornamental woody plant Liriodendron chinense, widely dispersed in the southern region of China, is yet to be elucidated. In the present study, 399 OSCA proteins were identified from 31 plant genomes, and comparative phylogenetic analysis revealed that LchiOSCAs gene family is closely related to the Magnolia Cinnamomum kanehirae OSCAs. In L. chinense, 11 LchiOSCA genes were identified and distributed across eight chromosomes. Additionally, phylogenetic analysis of LchiOSCAs exhibited a classification into four subfamilies based on the tree arrangement, similarity in the gene structures, and conserved motif numbers and order. Gene duplication investigations were biased towards the tandem duplication events, accounting for 36% (4/11) of the LchiOSCA gene family. The interspecies collinearity analysis revealed a closer relationship between the L. chinense OSCAs and the P. trichocarpa OSCAs. Analysis in promoter regions of the LchiOSCAs showed the presence of multiple phytohormones and stress responsive elements. Specifically, the ABA-responsive elements had the greatest representation. 3D protein structures of the modeled L. chinense OSCAs exhibited a high homology with the template structures, providing a better understanding of LchiOSCAs’ functionality at the proteome level. The expression pattern analysis of LchiOSCAs based on the transcriptome data and qRT-PCR in L. chinense leaves showed differential responses to drought, cold, and heat stress at varying degrees. Specifically, LchiOSCA2 and LchiOSCA4 were highly expressed under the three abiotic stresses. This research will provide valuable resources and further the understanding of plant OSCA genes in L. chinense for agronomic breeding and bio-engineering purposes.
Pycnomerus italicus (Coleoptera: Zopheridae), an Endemic Endangered Species: A New Report on Its Presence in Southern Italy
Authors: Pezzi Marco , Carlomagno Francesco , Mendicino Federica , Bonelli Domenico , Pelle Rocco , Leis Marilena , Chicca Milvia , Bonacci Teresa
Published: November 2022

Pycnomerus italicus (Ganglbauer, 1899) (Coleoptera: Zopheridae), a saproxylic beetle endemic to Italy, is listed as “endangered” in the Red List of Italian Saproxylic Beetles. In 2021, during an entomological survey, 49 adults of this species were found in the Riserva Naturale Biogenetica Marchesale, Calabria, Southern Italy. The species was found in medium and high-quality habitats where a large number of fallen trunks of Abies alba Mill. 1759 (Pinales: Pinaceae) were present. On the same decaying trunks where P. italicus was found, larvae and/or adults of other three species of saproxylic beetles were detected. Although most aspects of the biology and ecology of P. italicus are still unknown, the presence of this endemic species in the Riserva Naturale Biogenetica Marchesale is interesting because this reserve and other humid forest environments in Southern Italy could be relevant refuges not only for this species but also for other endangered saproxylic beetles. These areas should be protected with appropriate forest-management techniques.
Distributed Optimization for Fractional-Order Multi-Agent Systems Based on Adaptive Backstepping Dynamic Surface Control Technology
Authors: Yang Xiaole , Zhao Weiming , Yuan Jiaxin , Chen Tao , Zhang Chen , Wang Liangquan
Published: November 2022

In this article, the distributed optimization problem is studied for a class of fractional-order nonlinear uncertain multi-agent systems (MASs) with unmeasured states. Each agent is represented through a system with unknown nonlinearities, unmeasurable states and a local objective function described by a quadratic polynomial function. A penalty function is constructed by a sum of local objective functions and integrating consensus conditions of the MASs. Radial basis function Neural-networks (RBFNNs) and Neural networks (NN) state observer are applied to approximate the unknown nonlinear dynamics and estimate unmeasured states, respectively. By combining the NN state observer and the penalty function, and the stability theory of the Lyapunov function, the distributed observer-based adaptive optimized backstepping dynamic surface control protocol is proposed to ensure the outputs of all agents asymptotically reach consensus to the optimal solution of the global objective function. Simulations demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed control scheme.
Challenging Occam’s Razor: Dual Molecular Diagnoses Explain Entangled Clinical Pictures
Authors: Spedicati Beatrice , Morgan Anna , Pianigiani Giulia , Musante Luciana , Rubinato Elisa , Santin Aurora , Nardone Giuseppe Giovanni , Faletra Flavio , Girotto Giorgia
Published: November 2022

Dual molecular diagnoses are defined as the presence of pathogenic variants at two distinct and independently segregating loci that cause two different Mendelian conditions. In this study, we report the identification of double genetic disorders in a series of patients with complex clinical features. In the last 24 months, 342 syndromic patients have been recruited and clinically characterised. Whole Exome Sequencing analysis has been performed on the proband and on both parents and identified seven patients affected by a dual molecular diagnosis. Upon a detailed evaluation of both their clinical and molecular features, subjects are able to be divided into two groups: (A) five patients who present distinct phenotypes, due to each of the two different underlying genetic diseases; (B) two patients with overlapping clinical features that may be underpinned by both the identified genetic variations. Notably, only in one case a multilocus genomic variation was already suspected during the clinical evaluation. Overall, our findings highlight how dual molecular diagnoses represent a challenging model of complex inheritance that should always be considered whenever a patient shows atypical clinical features. Indeed, an accurate genetic characterisation is of the utmost importance to provide patients with a personalised and safe clinical management.
Racial Disparities in Methylation of NRF1, FTO, and LEPR Gene in Childhood Obesity
Authors: Patel Priyadarshni , Selvaraju Vaithinathan , Babu Jeganathan Ramesh , Wang Xu , Geetha Thangiah
Published: November 2022

Childhood obesity has affected the health of millions of children around the world despite vigorous efforts by health experts. The obesity epidemic in the United States has disproportionately afflicted certain racial and ethnic minority groups. African American children are more likely than other children to have obesity-related risk factors such as hyperlipidemia, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and coronavirus disease (COVID-19). For the reduction in obesity-related health inequalities to be successful, it is essential to identify the variables affecting various groups. A notable advancement in epigenetic biology has been made over the past decade. Epigenetic changes like DNA methylation impact on many genes associated with obesity. Here, we evaluated the DNA methylation levels of the genes NRF1, FTO, and LEPR from the saliva of children using real-time quantitative PCR-based multiplex MethyLight technology. ALU was used as a reference gene, and the Percent of Methylated Reference (PMR) was calculated for each sample. European American children showed a significant increase in PMR of NRF1 and FTO in overweight/obese participants compared to normal weight, but not in African American children. After adjusting for maternal education and annual family income by regression analysis, the PMR of NRF1 and FTO was significantly associated with BMI z-score only in European American children. While for the gene LEPR, African American children had higher methylation in normal weight participants as compared to overweight/obese and no methylation difference in European American children. The PMR of LEPR was significantly negative associated with the obesity measures only in African American children. These findings contribute to a race-specific link between NRF1, FTO, and LEPR gene methylation and childhood obesity.
MSF-UBRW: An Improved Unbalanced Bi-Random Walk Method to Infer Human lncRNA-Disease Associations
Authors: Dai Lingyun , Zhu Rong , Liu Jinxing , Li Feng , Wang Juan , Shang Junliang
Published: November 2022

Long-non-coding RNA (lncRNA) is a transcription product that exerts its biological functions through a variety of mechanisms. The occurrence and development of a series of human diseases are closely related to abnormal expression levels of lncRNAs. Scientists have developed many computational models to identify the lncRNA-disease associations (LDAs). However, many potential LDAs are still unknown. In this paper, a novel method, namely MSF-UBRW (multiple similarities fusion based on unbalanced bi-random walk), is designed to explore new LDAs. First, two similarities (functional similarity and Gaussian Interaction Profile kernel similarity) of lncRNAs are calculated and fused linearly, also for disease data. Then, the known association matrix is preprocessed. Next, the linear neighbor similarities of lncRNAs and diseases are calculated, respectively. After that, the potential associations are predicted based on unbalanced bi-random walk. The fusion of multiple similarities improves the prediction performance of MSF-UBRW to a large extent. Finally, the prediction ability of the MSF-UBRW algorithm is measured by two statistical methods, leave-one-out cross-validation (LOOCV) and 5-fold cross-validation (5-fold CV). The AUCs of 0.9391 in LOOCV and 0.9183 (±0.0054) in 5-fold CV confirmed the reliable prediction ability of the MSF-UBRW method. Case studies of three common diseases also show that the MSF-UBRW method can infer new LDAs effectively.
Unusual Presentation of Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in Pregnancy: A Case Report and Systematic Review of Literature
Authors: Delzotto Joseph , Naqvi Tahira. S. , Opara Nnennaya. U. , Delzotto Anthony , Morgan Andrew
Published: November 2022

Diseases occurring during pregnancy create a dilemma of managing the patient without causing harm to the unborn child. Three percent of the peak incidence of Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) is congruent with the reproductive period, particularly with pregnancy. Pregnant patients with HL always require a team of medical experts ranging from a medical oncologist, high-risk obstetrician, and neonatologist. Effective communication with both the patient and family is also necessary. The treatment goal for these patients should focus on achieving complete remission for the mother while permitting the delivery of a healthy child. Pregnant patients diagnosed with HL should undergo similar clinical investigations as other non-pregnant patients with accurate disease staging and appropriate non-radiation imaging such as ultrasound while avoiding invasive procedures.
Early Performance of Recently Released Rootstocks with Grapefruit, Navel Orange, and Mandarin Scions under Endemic Huanglongbing Conditions in Florida
Authors: Zapien-Macias J. Martin , Ferrarezi Rhuanito Soranz , Spyke Peter D. , Castle William S. , Gmitter Frederick G. , Grosser Jude W. , Rossi Lorenzo
Published: November 2022

Huanglongbing (HLB), which is believed to be caused by the phloem-restricted bacterium Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus (CLas), has decimated Florida’s citrus production. Grapefruit production has declined 75%, mandarin 78%, and sweet orange 52% due to the high sensitivity of commercial scions and rootstocks to the disease. New combinations of scions and hybrid rootstocks may provide better performance than current commercial selections for Florida’s fresh citrus production, particularly in the Indian River District. The objective of this study was to evaluate and compare University of Florida rootstocks and other recently released rootstocks grafted with grapefruit, navel orange, and mandarin scions by measuring tree growth and HLB tolerance. Three independent large-scale field trials were established in September 2019 in Fort Pierce, FL, USA. Trial 1 (T1) included 36 rootstocks with ‘Ray Ruby’ grapefruit as the scion; Trials 2 and 3 (T2 and T3, respectively) included 30 rootstocks with ‘Glenn’ navel orange F-56-11 and ‘UF-950’ mandarin as the scion, respectively. Tree canopy volume, trunk diameter, CLas titer, HLB severity index, and leaf nutrient concentrations were evaluated during 2020 and 2021. Significant differences among rootstock-scion combinations were found in each trial for most of the assessed traits. In T2, UFR-15 consistently developed the largest ‘Ray Ruby’ grapefruit trees during both years. In T3, ‘Glenn’ navel orange F-56-11 trees were larger on C-22, and US-802. Similarly, US-802 and US-942 generated the largest ‘UF-950’ mandarin trees. Overall, trees had optimum levels of macro- and micronutrients except for calcium. CLas infection and HLB visual index varied among scion-rootstock combinations, especially during the first year of growth when intensive flushing was produced. Generally, trees grew vigorously with WGFT+50-7 and Willits inducing the lowest HLB symptoms in all evaluations. Production and fruit quality need to be evaluated to determine the suitability of potential scion-rootstock combinations that can confer consistent economical and biological advantages under the current HLB scenario in the Indian River District.
Supportive Oligonucleotide Therapy (SOT) as a Potential Treatment for Viral Infections and Lyme Disease: Preliminary Results
Authors: Apostolou Panagiotis , Iliopoulos Aggelos , Beis Georgios , Papasotiriou Ioannis
Published: November 2022

Antisense therapy is widely used as an alternative therapeutic option for various diseases. RNA interference might be effective in infections, through the degradation of messenger RNA and, therefore, translation process. Hence, proteins essential for microorganisms and viruses’ proliferation and metabolism are inhibited, leading to their elimination. The present study aimed to evaluate the use of oligonucleotide in patients infected by Epstein–Barr (EBV) or Herpes Simplex Viruses 1/2 or with Lyme Disease caused by Borrelia burgdorferi. Blood samples were collected from 115 patients and the different species were characterized using molecular biology techniques. Then, SOT molecules (Supportive Oligonucleotide Therapy), which are specific small interfering RNA (siRNA), were designed, produced, and evaluated, for each specific strain. Oligonucleotides were administered intravenously to patients and then a quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction was used to evaluate the effectiveness of SOT. This study revealed that for Lyme Disease, one or two SOT administrations can lead to a statistically significant decrease in DNA copies, while for viruses, two or three administrations are required to achieve a statistically significant reduction in the genetic material. These preliminary results indicate that antisense SOT therapy can be considered a potential treatment for viral as well as Lyme diseases.
Harsh Physical Discipline and Externalizing Behaviors in Children: A Systematic Review
Authors: Wiggers Marthe , Paas Fred
Published: November 2022

There is growing debate in the parenting literature as to whether using physical punishment to discipline children is an effective strategy or leads to the development of aggressive behaviors and other antisocial attributes. The aim of the current literature review is to examine the association between harsh physical discipline and the development of externalizing behaviors in children, as well as the suggested moderators of this relationship. Secondly, the findings regarding the effects of harsh physical discipline on children’s educational outcomes are reviewed. Articles were selected from relevant databases while maintaining an inclusion and exclusion criteria, with a total of 22 articles included in this review. Strong associations between parental corporal punishment and a range of child behaviors were indicated by the literature, and cultural normativeness was implicated as a moderator of these effects. Results regarding the role of parental warmth as a moderator did not provide a firm conclusion. Finally, the findings suggest that when a child is subjected to physical discipline in the home, their life at school may be adversely affected by impaired cognitive performance, peer isolation, and behavioral problems. The primary limitation of the studies reviewed is the use of self-report data and correlational analyses, ruling out the possibility of inferring causal relations. Nonetheless, the results indicate the necessity of encouraging parents and caregivers to avoid physical punishment as a disciplinary tactic while providing them with the tools to explore alternative practices.
Safety Risk Estimation of Construction Project Based on Energy Transfer Model and System Dynamics: A Case Study of Collapse Accident in China
Authors: Zhang Yongcheng , Xing Xuejiao , Antwi-Afari Maxwell Fordjour , Wu Mingqing
Published: November 2022

Analyzing and understanding the occurrence and evolution mechanisms of construction accidents are important for construction safety management. This study proposed a hybrid approach of integrating the energy transfer model (ETM) and system dynamics (SD) theory to delineate the entire evolution stage of the construction accident. Specifically, the Fengcheng Power Plant construction platform collapse accident (FPCA) was taken as a practical case study. First, the ETM is applied to demonstrate the evolving nature of the accident. Then, the network of the accident-causing factors is constructed using the SD theory to analyze the dynamic change characteristics. The results indicate that the accident was caused by risk factors with complex interactions at the management level. An energy constraint failure occurred when the transfer of dangerous energy transpired at the physical entity level, inducing the event. The proposed approach can provide a useful reference for safety risk estimation and management in future major construction projects.
Facing the Post-Pandemic Challenges: The Role of Leadership Effectiveness in Shaping the Affective Well-Being of Healthcare Providers Working in a Hybrid Work Mode
Authors: Oleksa-Marewska Karolina , Tokar Joanna
Published: November 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought new challenges to the medical industry, including hybrid work, in which specialists can perform some of their duties remotely, in addition to physical contact with patients and their teams. Hybrid work provides opportunities, but also generates difficulties (e.g., accurate long-distance diagnosis); therefore, there is a need to ensure the well-being of healthcare workers, especially in the context of leadership strategies. As there is little research on leadership practices in remote and hybrid medical worker management, this study analyses the relationship between certain behavioural strategies and competencies of leaders and the affective well-being of hybrid employees. The research was conducted among a group of employees (N = 135) from seven countries who provide healthcare in a hybrid model. The correlations between the variables showed the statistical significance of all leadership strategies introduced into the model and focused on building involvement (employee empowerment and team orientation), creating a shared vision, defining clear goals and strategies, promoting adaptability (change management, promotion of organisational learning and patient focus), managing consistency through shared values, agreement and effective coordination, as well as competencies such as communicativeness, credibility, self-development and digital readiness. Despite the significance of all the relationships, the linear regression showed that the variability of affective well-being was explained mainly by the adaptability leadership strategy. The results of the study expand the knowledge on the competencies of healthcare leaders, and shed new light on the management of medical employees performing remote and hybrid work. Because such research into well-being has not been published to date, the analysis begins an important discussion on redefining leadership in the healthcare sector, taking into account the digital transformation.
Reward Uncertainty and Expected Value Enhance Generalization of Episodic Memory
Authors: Yue Yang , Jiang Yingjie , Zhou Fan , Jiang Yuantao , Long Yiting , Wang Kaiyu
Published: November 2022

Previous research has revealed some mechanisms underlying the generalization of reward expectation of generalization stimuli, but little is known about the generalization of episodic memory for rewarding events, its consolidation, and how reward components such as expected value and reward uncertainty affect it. Participants underwent a Pavlovian reward-conditioning task to test whether reward conditioning would enhance episodic memory generalization and which reward components would directly affect it. Counterbalanced across participants, one semantic category was paired with a reward, while the other was never paired. Following a delay of either 5 min or 24 h, participants took a memory test consisting of old, highly similar, and new items. We found that participants were more likely to falsely recognize lure items as old in the reward-paired category after 5 min and 24 h delays. These results indicate that reward conditioning enhanced the generalization of episodic memory, but this effect was not necessarily dependent on consolidation. The composite score and raw data of generalization further showed that the uncertainty and expected value enhanced generalization. Together, these findings revealed an effect of reward conditioning on episodic memory generalization and supported the enhancement effects of expected value and uncertainty.
Coordinated Evolution and Influencing Factors of Population and Economy in the Yangtze River Economic Belt
Authors: Wang Yazhu , Zou Hui , Duan Xuejun , Wang Lingqing
Published: November 2022

The degree of population–economy coupling and coordination is an important indicator of a region’s balanced development. This study examines the evolution of the population–economy coupling coordination pattern in the Yangtze River Economic Belt spanning from 2000 to 2019. It draws from the economic growth stage and related theories, and employs methods such as geographic concentration, center of gravity analysis, and the coupling coordination model. Accordingly, the population and economy of the Yangtze River Economic Belt form a core–periphery, with a decreasing center toward the periphery, and the east higher than the west. The spatial coupling situation of the population-economic center of gravity yields an inverted U-shaped curve, where their center of gravity separates and then converges, and the difference in regional development expands and then shrinks. Moreover, the population center of gravity lags behind that of the economy. The population–economy coupling and coordination degree shows a decreasing trend after rising fluctuations. Further, the study finds that regional economic development, government role, and market-led capital agglomeration are significant drivers of the population–economy coupling and coordination, with the industrial structural influence being spatially heterogeneous.
The Relationship between Self-Perceived Health and Clinical Symptoms in Patients with Frozen Shoulders
Authors: She Liang-Chien , Wang Hui-Yi , Liu Mei-Fang , Lin Yen-Ko , Chen Shu-Mei
Published: November 2022

Current healthcare is centered on the perception of people’s health. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between self-perceived health (physical, psychological, social, and environmental dimensions) and two main clinical symptoms (shoulder pain and restricted shoulder motion) in patients with frozen shoulders. A total of 49 patients diagnosed with frozen shoulders were recruited and divided into high- and low-disability groups according to the severity of their frozen shoulders. Participants were measured for shoulder passive range of motion, pain intensity, and self-perceived health, using a brief version of the World Health Organization Quality of Life questionnaire. The results showed that the high-disability group had poorer self-perceived health (lower quality of life scores) than the low-disability group (p < 0.05). There was no significant correlation between the quality of life scores and the two clinical symptoms in either the high- or low-disability group. Our findings revealed that the multidimensional self-perceived health of frozen shoulder patients could not be inferred from the severity of shoulder pain and restricted shoulder motions. This study suggests that healthcare providers should pay more attention to patients’ self-perceived health needs while addressing the clinical symptoms in patients with frozen shoulders.
Changing Patterns of Intimate Partner Violence against Pregnant Women: A Three-Year Longitudinal Study
Authors: Chen Xiao , Lo Camilla , Ho Frederick , Leung Wing , Ip Patrick , Chan Ko
Published: November 2022

Intimate partner violence (IPV) against pregnant women adversely impacts women’s and infants’ health. This study aims to provide longitudinal evidence regarding how pregnant women’s exposure to IPV changes over time. Additionally, we examine the risk and protective factors associated with these changes. In total, 340 pregnant women were recruited from an antenatal clinic in Hong Kong. IPV experiences and health conditions were assessed at pregnancy and at both 4 weeks and 3 years after childbirth. The women also reported adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), their family support, and perceived partner involvement. We found IPV prevalence among the study sample decreased from 22.9% before pregnancy to 13.5% during pregnancy, 14.7% at 4 weeks after childbirth, and 11.8% at 3 years after childbirth. We further found three types of IPV: 11.8% of women had a violent relationship (VR) persistently over time from pregnancy to 3 years after childbirth, 20.6% experienced decreased IPV (DVR), and 67.6% reported a nonviolent relationship (NVR) throughout the study period. VRs were associated with more severe mental health problems and higher ACEs. Family support and partner involvement may be protective factors for decreased IPV. Our present findings highlight the importance of identifying different IPV types over time to provide targeted intervention to the most vulnerable groups.
Heart Failure with Improved Ejection Fraction: Insight into the Variable Nature of Left Ventricular Systolic Function
Authors: Wybraniec Maciej T. , Orszulak Michał , Męcka Klaudia , Mizia-Stec Katarzyna
Published: November 2022

The progress of contemporary cardiovascular therapy has led to improved survival in patients with myocardial disease. However, the development of heart failure (HF) represents a common clinical challenge, regardless of the underlying myocardial pathology, due to the severely impaired quality of life and increased mortality comparable with malignant neoplasms. Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) is the main index of systolic function and a key predictor of mortality among HF patients, hence its improvement represents the main indicator of response to instituted therapy. The introduction of complex pharmacotherapy for HF, increased availability of cardiac-implantable electronic devices and advances in the management of secondary causes of HF, including arrhythmia-induced cardiomyopathy, have led to significant increase in the proportion of patients with prominent improvement or even normalization of LVEF, paving the way for the identification of a new subgroup of HF with an improved ejection fraction (HFimpEF). Accumulating data has indicated that these patients share far better long-term prognoses than patients with stable or worsening LVEF. Due to diverse HF aetiology, the prevalence of HFimpEF ranges from roughly 10 to 40%, while the search for reliable predictors and genetic associations corresponding with this clinical presentation is under way. As contemporary guidelines focus mainly on the management of HF patients with clearly defined LVEF, the present review aimed to characterize the definition, epidemiology, predictors, clinical significance and principles of therapy of patients with HFimpEF.
Drinking Water Supply in the Region of Antofagasta (Chile): A Challenge between Past, Present and Future
Authors: Ruffino Barbara , Campo Giuseppe , Crutchik Dafne , Reyes Arturo , Zanetti Mariachiara
Published: November 2022

Since the mid-nineteen century, when the first mining companies were established in the region of Antofagasta to extract saltpeter, mining managers and civil authorities have always had to face a number of problems to secure a water supply sufficient for the development of industrial activities and society. The unique features of the region, namely the scarcity of rainfall, the high concentration of arsenic in freshwaters and the increasing pressure of the mining sector, have made the supply of drinking water for local communities a challenge. In the 1950s, the town of Antofagasta experienced a serious drinking water crisis. The 300 km long aqueduct starting from the Toconce catchment, opened in 1958, temporarily ended this shortage of drinking water but created an even more dramatic problem. The concentration of arsenic in the water consumed by the population had grown by approx. ten times, reaching the value of 0.860 mg/L and seriously affecting people’s health. The water treatment plants (WTPs) which were installed starting from the 1970s in the region (namely the Old and New Salar del Carmen in Antofagasta and Cerro Topater in Calama, plus the two recent desalination plants in Antofagasta and Tocopilla), have ensured, since 2014, that the drinking water coverage in the urban areas was practically universal (>99.9%). However, the rural areas have continued to experience significant shortcomings regarding their capacity to ensure the quality and continuity of the water supply service in the long run. Presently, approx. 42% of the rural population of the region of Antofagasta does not have a formal supply of drinking water. The recent amendments to the Chilean Water Code (March 2022) and the interventions carried out in the framework of the Agua Potable Rural (APR) program were intended to reduce the socio-ecological inequalities due to the lack of drinking water in the semi-concentrated and isolated rural population.
A Chronic Disease in Adolescence and Selection to an Educational Path—A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Koivusilta Leena , Kaltiala Riittakerttu , Myöhänen Anna , Hotulainen Risto , Rimpelä Arja
Published: November 2022

Chronic disease may affect adolescents’ educational success. We study whether adolescents with a somatic chronic condition have lower school performance, lower odds for academic education, and a delayed start of upper-secondary studies. Seventh graders and ninth graders in the Helsinki Metropolitan Region, Finland, were invited to participate in a school survey in 2011 and 2014, respectively. The respondents (2011, N = 8960; 2014, N = 7394) were followed using a national application registry until 2017. The chronic conditions were asthma, diabetes, and epilepsy. Outcomes were grade point average (GPA), study place in an academic school, and delayed start of secondary education. Adolescents with a chronic disease needing medication had lower GPAs in both grades. Chronic disease with medication in the seventh grade predicted higher odds for the non-academic track (OR = 1.3) and the delayed start (OR = 1.4). In the ninth grade, chronic disease predicted non-academic studies univariately (OR = 1.2) and was not associated with the delayed start. The somatic chronic condition with medication, particularly epilepsy, slightly lowers students’ school performance, which is a mediator between the chronic condition and selection into educational paths. Compared to gender and parents’ education, and particularly to GPA, the role of chronic conditions on educational outcomes is small.
The Impact of the COVID-19 Crisis on the Practices and Mental Health of Psychologists in Belgium: Between Exhaustion and Resilience
Authors: Glowacz Fabienne , Schmits Emilie , Kinard Annabelle
Published: November 2022

While the COVID-19 pandemic has created psychological distress in the general population and increased the need for psychological care, little research has been done on how mental health practitioners (MHP) have been affected by the pandemic, and these health professionals have received little attention from public authorities. In this article, we focus on psychologists and the impact that the pandemic has had on their mental health and practices by exploring the adaptive and innovative responses generated. This study is based on an online survey (including multiple choice questions, several validated scales, and eight free text items) completed by 187 psychologists (86% female) one year after the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in Belgium (February–April 2021). Most participants considered that the crisis had an impact on their well-being and mental health. However, the prevalence of symptoms of depression and anxiety was relatively low (17%; 12%). On the other hand, the majority of psychologists (72%) suffered from a medium level of burnout (BO), 7% suffered from a high level of BO, and only 21% had low levels of BO. Psychologists working in face-to-face settings had the highest scores on the “exhaustion” subscale of the BO, and those working primarily with patients in precarious situations had significantly higher scores of BO and exhaustion. Qualitative analysis of free text items showed that MHP were resilience and developed new frameworks and modes for proactive interventions in order to reach their patients, meet the psychological and social population’s needs, and maintain their relationships with the network. In a crisis or pandemic context, public policies should take into account the psychological and social needs of the most socially precarious populations in reinforcing and supporting mental health professionals working in this sector.
Social Media Addiction among Vietnam Youths: Patterns and Correlated Factors
Authors: Doan Linh Phuong , Le Linh Khanh , Nguyen Tham Thi , Nguyen Thao Thi Phuong , Le Minh Ngoc Vu , Vu Giang Thu , Latkin Carl A. , Ho Cyrus S. H. , Ho Roger C. M. , Zhang Melvyn W. B.
Published: November 2022

Background: Prior research has investigated how the excessive use of social media has an impact on one’s functioning. Youths are among the most vulnerable subjects to the impacts of social media overuse, especially in Vietnam (a developing country). However, very little evidence has been provided on social media addiction. This work aims to determine the prevalence of social media addiction amongst Vietnamese individuals and the factors associated with social media addiction. Method: An online cross-sectional study was conducted from June to July 2020 in Vietnam. Participants completed the structured questionnaire, which comprised four main components: (1) social characteristics; (2) The Bergen Social Media Addiction Scale; (3) stress associated with neglect and negative reactions by online peers and fear of missing out (FOMO); and (4) status of social media platform usage. Results: Some demographic factors, such as gender, the locality of accommodation, and relationship status affected the overall scores. The results also indicated Facebook, Zalo, and Youtube to be the most popular social media platforms among Vietnamese youths. Individuals who used social media for gaming also had higher BSMAS scores. FOMO and stress associated with neglect by online peers had a high correlation with social media addiction. Conclusions: This study is one of the first studies to examine social media addiction and its associated factors in Vietnam. Interventions for social media addiction need to be developed in different fields: clinical research, policy, and education.
Environmental Management from the Point of View of the Energy Intensity of Road Freight Transport and Shocks
Authors: Szaruga Elżbieta , Załoga Elżbieta
Published: November 2022

The research aimed to identify the directions of rationalization of the energy intensity of road freight transport in the context of the long-term balance of the drifting economy. The study was related to the case of Poland, and its scope spans 8.5 years. The long-term drift of the economy and shocks from the production process of the construction, industry, and processing sectors were taken into account in the research. In addition, the structural shocks were decomposed and validated. Twenty-one statistically significant multidirectional and varying relationships between the energy consumption of road transport and production in the construction, industry, and processing sectors were confirmed, including 7 long-term and 14 immediate relationships. The leakage of shocks in production has been demonstrated in the construction, industry, and processing sectors. The shock from the construction sector lowered the energy consumption of road transport in the long run. The greatest impact of the shock occurred only after 6–12 months and slowly stabilized after approximately 24 months. On the other hand, the shock in production in the industry and processing sectors reduced energy intensity in the short term but increased in the long term. The shocks in the industry and processing sectors transformed relatively quickly.