bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of a Precision Feeding System with Hierarchical Control for Gestation Units Using Stalls
Authors: Xia Jingjing , Xu Jichen , Zeng Zhixiong , Lv Enli , Wang Feiren , He Xinyuan , Li Ziwei
Published: November 2023

To obtain good productive performance, sows have different nutrition requirements at different gestation periods. However, in gestation stalls, conventional feeders have large relative errors, management is difficult because of the large numbers of sows, and there are shortcomings in feeding precision and data management. In order to achieve precision feeding and enhance the control of multiple feeders for gestating sows housed in stalls, this study was carried out to investigate a precision feeding system that could be controlled at multiple levels. This system consisted of an electronic sow feeder (ESF), controller area network (CAN), personal digital assistant (PDA), central controller, and Internet of Things platform (IoTP). The results of the experiment showed that relative errors of 60 ESFs delivering feed were within ±2.94%, and the coefficient of variation was less than 1.84%. When the received signal strength indicator (RSSI) ranged from −80 dbm to −70 dbm, the packet loss rate of the PDA was 3.425%. When the RSSI was greater than −70 dbm, no packet loss was observed, and the average response time was 556.05 ms. The IoTP was at the performance bottleneck when the number of concurrent threads was greater than 1700. These experimental results indicated that the system was not only highly accurate in delivering feed, but was also highly reliable in the transmission of information, and therefore met the production requirements of an intensive gestation house.
Bridge Acceleration Data Cleaning Based on Two-Stage Classification Model with Multiple Feature Fusion
Authors: Xu Yichao , Zhang Yufeng , Zhang Jian
Published: November 2023

Over the past few decades, rapid economic development has led to the establishment of numerous monitoring systems, resulting in the accumulation of vast amounts of monitoring data. Among these data, dynamic acceleration data stand out prominently. However, the quality of collected acceleration data is often compromised due to factors such as challenging operational environments and sensor malfunctions. This severely hampers the value extracted from the data. Although manual identification and classification of data anomalies are more reliable, they are time consuming and labor intensive. To address the challenge of identifying and classifying anomalies in massive acceleration data, this paper proposes a two-stage model for intelligent data cleaning. Firstly, raw acceleration data are transformed into IPDF and PSD features, and a one-dimensional convolutional neural network is trained to preliminarily identify and classify acceleration data anomalies. Subsequently, the RPV indicator is extracted from the original data of the normal and outlier categories to achieve precise classification based on threshold values. The proposed method is successfully validated using acceleration monitoring data from a large-span arch bridge, achieving an accuracy of over 99%. Furthermore, compared to directly employing a one-dimensional CNN classification model, the approach significantly enhances the model’s perception of local significant disturbances.
Neurofeedback and Affect Regulation Circuitry in Depressed and Healthy Adolescents
Authors: Nguyen Giang H. , Oh Sewon , Schneider Corey , Teoh Jia Y. , Engstrom Maggie , Santana-Gonzalez Carmen , Porter David , Quevedo Karina
Published: November 2023

Neurodevelopmental psychopathology seeks to understand higher-order emotion regulation circuitry to develop new therapies for adolescents with depression. Depressed (N = 34) and healthy youth (N = 19) completed neurofeedback (NF) training and exhibited increased bilateral amygdala and hippocampus activity in the region of interest (ROI) analyses by recalling positive autobiographical memories. We tested factors supportive of the engagement of emotion regulation’s neural areas during NF (i.e., parental support, medication, and gender effects upon anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) engagement). Whole-brain analyses yielded effects of NF vs. control condition and effects of diagnosis. Youth showed higher amygdala and hippocampus (AMYHIPPO) activity during the NF vs. control condition, particularly in the left hippocampus. ACC’s activity was also higher during NF vs. control. Higher average ACC activity was linked to better parental support, absent depression, female gender, and absent medication. Control youth showed higher average AMYHIPPO and ACC activity throughout the task and a faster decline in activity vs. depressed youths. Whole-brain level analyses showed higher activity in the frontotemporal network during the NF vs. control conditions, suggesting targeting their connectivity in future neurofeedback trials.
Genetic Databases and Gene Editing Tools for Enhancing Crop Resistance against Abiotic Stress
Authors: Joshi Alpana , Yang Seo-Yeon , Song Hyung-Geun , Min Jiho , Lee Ji-Hoon
Published: November 2023

Abiotic stresses extensively reduce agricultural crop production globally. Traditional breeding technology has been the fundamental approach used to cope with abiotic stresses. The development of gene editing technology for modifying genes responsible for the stresses and the related genetic networks has established the foundation for sustainable agriculture against environmental stress. Integrated approaches based on functional genomics and transcriptomics are now expanding the opportunities to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying abiotic stress responses. This review summarizes some of the features and weblinks of plant genome databases related to abiotic stress genes utilized for improving crops. The gene-editing tool based on clustered, regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR-associated protein 9 (Cas9) has revolutionized stress tolerance research due to its simplicity, versatility, adaptability, flexibility, and broader applications. However, off-target and low cleavage efficiency hinder the successful application of CRISPR/Cas systems. Computational tools have been developed for designing highly competent gRNA with better cleavage efficiency. This powerful genome editing tool offers tremendous crop improvement opportunities, overcoming conventional breeding techniques’ shortcomings. Furthermore, we also discuss the mechanistic insights of the CRISPR/Cas9-based genome editing technology. This review focused on the current advances in understanding plant species’ abiotic stress response mechanism and applying the CRISPR/Cas system genome editing technology to develop crop resilience against drought, salinity, temperature, heavy metals, and herbicides.
Pharmacophore-Based Screening, Molecular Docking, and Dynamic Simulation of Fungal Metabolites as Inhibitors of Multi-Targets in Neurodegenerative Disorders
Authors: Iqbal Danish , Alsaweed Mohammed , Jamal Qazi Mohammad Sajid , Asad Mohammad Rehan , Rizvi Syed Mohd Danish , Rizvi Moattar Raza , Albadrani Hind Muteb , Hamed Munerah , Jahan Sadaf , Alyenbaawi Hadeel
Published: November 2023

Neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD), negatively affect the economic and psychological system. For AD, there is still a lack of disease-altering treatments and promising cures due to its complex pathophysiology. In this study, we computationally screened the natural database of fungal metabolites against three known therapeutic target proteins of AD. Initially, a pharmacophore-based, drug-likeness category was employed for screening, and it filtered the 14 (A–N) best hits out of 17,544 fungal metabolites. The 14 best hits were docked individually against GSK-3β, the NMDA receptor, and BACE-1 to investigate the potential of finding a multitarget inhibitor. We found that compounds B, F, and L were immuno-toxic, whereas E, H, I, and J had a higher LD50 dose (5000 mg/kg). Among the examined metabolites, the Bisacremine-C (compound I) was found to be the most active molecule against GSK-3β (ΔG: −8.7 ± 0.2 Kcal/mol, Ki: 2.4 × 106 M−1), NMDA (ΔG: −9.5 ± 0.1 Kcal/mol, Ki: 9.2 × 106 M−1), and BACE-1 (ΔG: −9.1 ± 0.2 Kcal/mol, Ki: 4.7 × 106 M−1). It showed a 25-fold higher affinity with GSK-3β, 6.3-fold higher affinity with NMDA, and 9.04-fold higher affinity with BACE-1 than their native ligands, respectively. Molecular dynamic simulation parameters, such as RMSD, RMSF, Rg, and SASA, all confirmed that the overall structures of the targeted enzymes did not change significantly after binding with Bisacremine-C, and the ligand remained inside the binding cavity in a stable conformation for most of the simulation time. The most significant hydrophobic contacts for the GSK-3β-Bisacremine-C complex are with ILE62, VAL70, ALA83, and LEU188, whereas GLN185 is significant for H-bonds. In terms of hydrophobic contacts, TYR184 and PHE246 are the most important, while SER180 is vital for H-bonds in NMDA-Bisacremine-C. THR232 is the most crucial for H-bonds in BACE-1-Bisacremine-C and ILE110-produced hydrophobic contacts. This study laid a foundation for further experimental validation and clinical trials regarding the biopotency of Bisacremine-C.
Human Skin Aging and the Anti-Aging Properties of Retinol
Authors: Quan Taihao
Published: November 2023

The skin is the most-extensive and -abundant tissue in the human body. Like many organs, as we age, human skin experiences gradual atrophy in both the epidermis and dermis. This can be primarily attributed to the diminishing population of epidermal stem cells and the reduction in collagen, which is the primary structural protein in the human body. The alterations occurring in the epidermis and dermis due to the aging process result in disruptions to the structure and functionality of the skin. This creates a microenvironment conducive to age-related skin conditions such as a compromised skin barrier, slowed wound healing, and the onset of skin cancer. This review emphasizes the recent molecular discoveries related to skin aging and evaluates preventive approaches, such as the use of topical retinoids. Topical retinoids have demonstrated promise in enhancing skin texture, diminishing fine lines, and augmenting the thickness of both the epidermal and dermal layers.
Estrogen-Receptor-Low-Positive Breast Cancer: Pathological and Clinical Perspectives
Authors: Malainou Christina Panagiotis , Stachika Nikolina , Damianou Aikaterini Konstantina , Anastopoulos Aristotelis , Ploumaki Ioanna , Triantafyllou Efthymios , Drougkas Konstantinos , Gomatou Georgia , Kotteas Elias
Published: November 2023

The expression of estrogen receptors (ERs) in breast cancer (BC) represents a strong prognostic and predictive biomarker and directs therapeutic decisions in early and advanced stages. ER-low-positive BC, defined by the immunohistochemical (IHC) expression of ERs from 1% to 9%, constitutes a distinct subset of total BC cases. Guidelines recommend that a low expression of ERs be reported in pathology reports since the benefit of endocrine therapy in patients with ER-low-positive BC is uncertain. Recently, several cohorts, mostly of a retrospective nature, have been published, reporting the clinicopathological characteristics and outcomes of ER-low-positive BC. However, the majority of the data focus on early-stage BC and the use of (neo)adjuvant therapy, and there is a significant lack of data regarding metastatic ER-low-positive BC. Further factors, including tumor heterogeneity as well as the potential loss of ER expression due to endocrine resistance, should be considered. Including patients with ER-low-positive BC in clinical trials for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) might improve the understanding of this entity and allow novel therapeutic approaches. The design and conduction of randomized clinical trials regarding this subgroup of patients are greatly anticipated.
Transmission Line Fault Detection and Classification Based on Improved YOLOv8s
Authors: Qiang Hao , Tao Zixin , Ye Bo , Yang Ruxue , Xu Weiyue
Published: November 2023

Transmission lines are an important component of the power grid, while complex natural conditions can cause fault and delayed maintenance, which makes it quite important to locate and collect the fault parts efficiently. The current unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) inspection on transmission lines makes up for these problems to some extent. However, the complex background information contained in the images collected by power inspection and the existing deep learning methods are mostly highly sensitive to complex backgrounds, making the detection of multi-scale targets more difficult. Therefore, this article proposes an improved transmission line fault detection method based on YOLOv8s. The model not only detects defects in the insulators of power transmission lines but also adds the identification of birds’ nests, which makes the power inspection more comprehensive in detecting faults. This article uses Triplet Attention (TA) and an improved Bidirectional Feature Pyramid Network (BiFPN) to enhance the ability to extract discriminative features, enabling higher semantic information to be obtained after cross-layer fusion. Then, we introduce Wise-IoU (WIoU), a monotonic focus mechanism for cross-entropy, which enables the model to focus on difficult examples and improve the bounding box loss and classification loss. After deploying the improved method in the Win10 operating system and detecting insulator flashover, insulator broken, and nest faults, this article achieves a Precision of 92.1%, a Recall of 88.4%, and an mAP of 92.4%. Finally, we conclude that in complex background images, this method can not only detect insulator defects but also identify power tower birds’ nests.
Utilising Artificial Intelligence to Turn Reviews into Business Enhancements through Sentiment Analysis
Authors: Nichifor Eliza , Brătucu Gabriel , Chițu Ioana Bianca , Lupșa-Tătaru Dana Adriana , Chișinău Eduard Mihai , Todor Raluca Dania , Albu Ruxandra-Gabriela , Bălășescu Simona
Published: November 2023

The use of sentiment analysis methodology has become crucial for e-commerce enterprises in order to optimise their marketing tactics. In the present setting, the authors strive to demonstrate the ethical and efficient use of artificial intelligence in the realm of business. The researchers used qualitative research methodologies to analyse a total of 1687 evaluations obtained from 85 online retailers associated with electronic commerce Europe Trustmark. These stores were linked with 18 different nations and operated over 14 distinct domains. The investigation used the combined power of natural language processing and machine learning, implemented via a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) platform. The results of the study indicate that consumers often exhibit a neutral emotional tone while leaving one-star ratings. Although the influence of unfavourable evaluations is generally limited, it highlights the need for more attentiveness in their management. The extent to which users interact with goods and services has a substantial impact on the probability of publishing reviews, regardless of whether the encountered experience is unpleasant or favourable. The authors urge for the acquisition of tools and skills in order to boost the efficiency of managers and experts in parallel with expanding technological landscapes, with a particular emphasis on the utilisation of artificial intelligence for sentiment analysis.
Interference Avoidance through Periodic UAV Scheduling in RIS-Aided UAV Cluster Communications
Authors: Zhou Enzhi , Liu Ziyue , Lan Ping , Xiao Wei , Yang Wei , Niu Xianhua
Published: November 2023

This article investigates the transmission of downlink control signals for multiple unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) clusters in collaborative search and rescue operations in mountainous environments. In this scenario, a reconfigurable intelligent surface (RIS) mounted on the UAV is utilized to overcome obstacles between the ground base station (BS) and UAVs. By leveraging the fixed channel of the RIS to the BS, the line-of-sight (LoS) path characteristics of the air-to-air channel, and the position information of the UAV, the RIS forms a directional beam by adjusting the RIS coefficient, which points towards UAVs in the cluster. To ensure low delay in control signaling and UAV state transmission, we adopt semi-persistent scheduling (SPS), which allocates pre-specified periodic intervals to each UAV for the formation of corresponding RIS coefficients. The allocation of time slots is constrained by the transmission intervals required by different UAVs and the number of RISs available. We propose a time slot scheduling scheme for UAVs to reduce inter-cluster interference caused by RIS beams. The time slot allocation problem is formulated as a combinatorial optimization problem. To solve this problem, we first propose an intuitive greedy scheme called local interference minimization (LIM). Building upon the LIM scheme, we propose a rollout-based algorithm called rollout interference minimization (RIM). Through simulation, we compare the LIM and RIM schemes with the benchmark scheduling scheme. The results demonstrate that our proposed scheme significantly reduces interference between UAV clusters while satisfying the conditions of periodic transmission and RIS quantity constraints.
Comprehensive Review of Innovative Materials for Sustainable Buildings’ Energy Performance
Authors: Nasr Yara , El Zakhem Henri , Hamami Ameur , El Bachawati Makram , Belarbi Rafik
Published: November 2023

The building sector, one of the most energy-consuming, is among the most current topics due to the maturing concerns about the anthropogenic factor’s impact on CO2 quantities in the atmosphere and its association with global temperature rise. Using sustainable building materials is a promising alternative in building envelope applications to improve in-use energy efficiency. These materials, having a low environmental impact, the advantage of being renewable, and low embodied energy, contribute to global sustainability. This comprehensive literature review presents a broad overview of these materials’ hygrothermal characteristics, thermal performance, and energy use. The main goal is to compile the most important research findings on these materials’ capabilities for building construction and their contributions and effects on energy performance and thermal insulation.
Simulation Research on the Optimization of Domestic Heat Pump Water Heater Condensers
Authors: Han Yang , Feng Rong , Xiao Taiyang , Guo Machao , Wu Jiahui , Cui Hong
Published: November 2023

To improve the heat transfer coefficient of a condenser, this paper proposes using a fin-tube condenser to replace a smooth-tube condenser in a domestic heat pump water heater. The finite element method is used to analyze the heat transfer coefficient of fin-tube condensers with different design parameters. By comparing the results of experiments with those obtained using CFD methods, it has been determined that the CFD method used in this study is feasible. Simulation results showed that the heat transfer coefficient enhanced clearly. The total thermal resistance of the fin-tube condenser decreased by 7% through increasing fin thickness. The total thermal resistance of the fin-tube condenser increased by 1–1.3% when fin spacing was increased. The heat transfer coefficient decreased severely and the maximum total thermal resistance of the fin-tube condenser increased by 8.7% with increasing fin height. In 600 s, when the fin spacing, fin height, fin thickness and inner diameter were 14 mm, 12.5 mm, 1.2 mm and 22.5 mm, respectively, compared to the smooth-tube condenser, the fin-tube condenser could increase the final water temperature by 18.37%, and the heat transfer coefficient would increase by about 95%. This research could provide a low-cost way to improve the heat transfer coefficient of condensers in domestic heat pump water heaters.
Estimation of the Population Dynamics of Taxus cuspidata by Using a Static Life Table for Its Conservation
Authors: Liu Dan , Guo Zhongling , Cui Xiaoyang , Fan Chunnan
Published: November 2023

Taxus cuspidata is a rare and endangered plant species with an extremely small population which is endemic to China. This study focused on the natural T. cuspidata population in Jilin Province in China. Conventional population ecology survey methods were used to describe its population structure characteristics. Then, we chose diameter structure instead of temporal structure to establish a static population life table, draw a population survival curve, and quantify the future development trend by using population dynamic analysis and time sequence prediction. The results showed that: (1) the static life table suggested that the population of T. cuspidata was stable overall. The population survival curve tended to be Deevey Ⅱ, with a high early seedling mortality, and the later population growth tended to be stable; (2) the survival curve suggested that the population initially experienced higher mortality rates in the early stage. However, as time progressed and the population aged, the mortality rates decreased, resulting in a more stable population in the middle and late stages; (3) The diameter class structure of T. cuspidata was stable overall, and the dynamic indices showed that the population was fluctuating. The population was influenced by external disturbances and showed some resistance to human disturbance; (4) time sequence prediction analysis showed that the mortality rate of young individuals was high, natural renewal could be maintained, and the population size would remain at a certain amount in the future. The result shows that the Jilin region is a highly suitable area for the growth of Taxus cuspidata’s population in Northeast China. We recommend in situ conservation of remaining wild populations, relocation of germplasm resources, and reduction of human activities; these actions will be beneficial to Taxus cuspidata’s long-term survival.
Are the Cutaneous Microbiota a Guardian of the Skin’s Physical Barrier? The Intricate Relationship between Skin Microbes and Barrier Integrity
Authors: Szabó Kornélia , Bolla Beáta Szilvia , Erdei Lilla , Balogh Fanni , Kemény Lajos
Published: November 2023

The skin is a tightly regulated, balanced interface that maintains our integrity through a complex barrier comprising physical or mechanical, chemical, microbiological, and immunological components. The skin’s microbiota affect various properties, one of which is the establishment and maintenance of the physical barrier. This is achieved by influencing multiple processes, including keratinocyte differentiation, stratum corneum formation, and regulation of intercellular contacts. In this review, we summarize the potential contribution of Cutibacterium acnes to these events and outline the contribution of bacterially induced barrier defects to the pathogenesis of acne vulgaris. With the combined effects of a Westernized lifestyle, microbial dysbiosis, epithelial barrier defects, and inflammation, the development of acne is very similar to that of several other multifactorial diseases of barrier organs (e.g., inflammatory bowel disease, celiac disease, asthma, atopic dermatitis, and chronic rhinosinusitis). Therefore, the management of acne requires a complex approach, which should be taken into account when designing novel treatments that address not only the inflammatory and microbial components but also the maintenance and strengthening of the cutaneous physical barrier.
Diminished Ovarian Reserve in Endometriosis: Insights from In Vitro, In Vivo, and Human Studies—A Systematic Review
Authors: Tan Zhouyurong , Gong Xue , Wang Chi Chiu , Zhang Tao , Huang Jin
Published: November 2023

Endometriosis, a prevalent disorder in women of reproductive age, is often associated with undesired infertility. Ovarian reserve, an essential measure of ovarian function that is crucial for maintaining fecundity, is frequently diminished in women with endometriosis. Though the causative relationship between endometriosis and reduced ovarian reserve is not fully understood due to the lack of standardized and precise measurements of ovarian reserve, there is ongoing discussion regarding the impact of interventions for endometriosis on ovarian reserve. Therefore, in this review, we investigate articles that have related keywords and which were also published in recent years. Thereafter, we provide a comprehensive summary of evidence from in vitro, in vivo, and human studies, thereby shedding light on the decreased ovarian reserve in endometriosis. This research consolidates evidence from in vitro, in vivo, and human studies on the diminished ovarian reserve associated with endometriosis, as well as enhances our understanding of whether and how endometriosis, as well as its interventions, contribute to reductions in ovarian reserve. Furthermore, we explore potential strategies to modify existing therapy options that could help prevent diminished ovarian reserve in patients with endometriosis.
Treatment of Patients with Mild to Moderate Ulcerative Colitis: A Middle East Expert Consensus
Authors: Awadhi Sameer Al , Alboraie Mohamed , Albaba Emad Aldin , Almutairdi Abdulelah , Alsaad Monther , Azzam Nahla , Barakat Husam , D’Amico Ferdinando , Danese Silvio , El Kady Mohamed , Ghoneim Hossam , Hamoudi Waseem , Jazzar Ahmad , Mosli Mahmoud , Shehab Hany , Sneineh Awni Abu
Published: November 2023

The prevalence of ulcerative colitis (UC) in the Middle East is increasing, impacting the economic and healthcare burden. The management of patients with mild to moderate UC is still a challenge as several factors can affect optimal care, including drug choice, induction and maintenance dose, treatment optimization and de-escalation, therapy duration, monitoring, and safety profile. We conducted an expert consensus to standardize the management of patients with mild to moderate UC. Sixteen experts in inflammatory bowel diseases, through a well-established and accepted Delphi methodology, voted and approved eight statements in order to provide practical guidance to clinicians in the Middle East.
A Diagnostic Challenge in an Adolescent with Collagen VI-Related Myopathy and Emotional Disorder—Case Report
Authors: Oros Mihaela , Baranga Lucica , Glangher Adelina , Adina-Diana Moldovan , Jugulete Gheorghita , Pavelescu Carmen , Mihaltan Florin , Plaiasu Vasilica , Gheorghe Dan Cristian
Published: November 2023

Collagen VI-related disorders constitute a spectrum of severities from the milder Bethlem myopathy (BM) to the Ullrich congenital muscular dystrophy (UCMD), which is more severe, and an intermediate form characterized by muscle weakness that begins in infancy. Affected children are able to walk, although walking becomes increasingly difficult starting in early adulthood. They develop contractures in the ankles, elbows, knees, and spine in childhood. In some affected cases, the respiratory muscles are weakened, requiring mechanical ventilation, particularly during sleep. Individuals with collagen VI-related myopathy are at risk of restrictive lung disease and sleep-disordered breathing due to the development of scoliosis associated with neuromuscular weakness. Typical signs of respiratory failure are not always present, and some patients are unaware that their respiratory muscles have become weaker. Here, we report a case of an intermediate form of collagen VI-related myopathy confirmed by next-generation sequencing. The girl presented morning headache, irritability, and aggressiveness, and because of these main symptoms, she was referred by the neurologist for respiratory evaluation. The result of spirometry was associated with hypoventilation shown during sleep studies, indicating the necessity to initiate home non-invasive ventilation (NIV) with immediate improvement in the symptoms. Neuromuscular disorders (NMDs) have a great impact on sleep, but only very few studies evaluating sleep quality in young patients with collagen VI-related myopathy have been described. Daytime symptoms of sleep-disordered breathing may include irritability, emotional lability, and poor attentiveness, but these can be overseen by the severity of other complex medical problems in patients with collagen VI-related myopathy. We underline the importance of the close monitoring of respiratory function, sleep evaluation, and decision making to support the NIV treatment of other collagen VI-related myopathy variant-specific patients. Early recognition of sleep disturbances and initiation of respiratory support can preserve or enhance the quality of life for patients and their caregivers. Routine screening for identification of emotional distress should be instituted in the clinical practice using validated psychological measures in a multidisciplinary approach with different intervention strategies for both patient and parent when necessary.
Principles and Standards for Designing and Managing Integrable and Interoperable Transformed Health Ecosystems
Authors: Blobel Bernd , Ruotsalainen Pekka , Oemig Frank , Giacomini Mauro , Sottile Pier Angelo , Endsleff Frederik
Published: November 2023

The advancement of sciences and technologies, economic challenges, increasing expectations, and consumerism result in a radical transformation of health and social care around the globe, characterized by foundational organizational, methodological, and technological paradigm changes. The transformation of the health and social care ecosystems aims at ubiquitously providing personalized, preventive, predictive, participative precision (5P) medicine, considering and understanding the individual’s health status in a comprehensive context from the elementary particle up to society. For designing and implementing such advanced ecosystems, an understanding and correct representation of the structure, function, and relations of their components is inevitable, thereby including the perspectives, principles, and methodologies of all included disciplines. To guarantee consistent and conformant processes and outcomes, the specifications and principles must be based on international standards. A core standard for representing transformed health ecosystems and managing the integration and interoperability of systems, components, specifications, and artifacts is ISO 23903:2021, therefore playing a central role in this publication. Consequently, ISO/TC 215 and CEN/TC 251, both representing the international standardization on health informatics, declared the deployment of ISO 23903:2021 mandatory for all their projects and standards addressing more than one domain. The paper summarizes and concludes the first author’s leading engagement in the evolution of pHealth in Europe and beyond over the last 15 years, discussing the concepts, principles, and standards for designing, implementing, and managing 5P medicine ecosystems. It not only introduces the theoretical foundations of the approach but also exemplifies its deployment in practical projects and solutions regarding interoperability and integration in multi-domain ecosystems. The presented approach enables comprehensive and consistent integration of and interoperability between domains, systems, related actors, specifications, standards, and solutions. That way, it should help overcome the problems and limitations of data-centric approaches, which still dominate projects and products nowadays, and replace them with knowledge-centric, comprehensive, and consistent ones.
Sympathetic Reinnervation of Intact and Upper Follicle Xenografts into BALB/c-nu/nu Mice
Authors: Chen Xiu-Wen , Ni Na , Xie Xiao-Jun , Zhao Ying-Lin , Liang Wen-Zi , Huang Yu-Xin , Lin Chang-Min
Published: November 2023

Increasing concerns about hair loss affect people’s quality of life. Recent studies have found that sympathetic nerves play a positive role in regulating hair follicle stem cell activity to promote hair growth. However, no study has investigated sympathetic innervation of transplanted follicles. Rat vibrissa follicles were extracted and implanted under the dorsal skin of BALB/c-nu/nu mice using one of two types of follicles: (1) intact follicles, where transplants included bulbs, and (2) upper follicles, where transplants excluded bulbs. Follicular samples were collected for hematoxylin and eosin staining, immunofluorescence staining for tyrosine hydroxylase (TH, a sympathetic marker) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. At 37 days after implantation in both groups, follicles had entered anagen, with the growth of long hair shafts; tyrosine-hydroxylase-positive nerves were innervating follicles (1.45-fold); and norepinephrine concentrations (2.03-fold) were significantly increased compared to 5 days, but did not return to normal. We demonstrate the survival of intact and upper follicle xenografts and the partial restoration of sympathetic reinnervations of both transplanted follicles.
Influence Analysis of Polyvinyl Alcohol on the Degradation of Artificial Leather with Cellulose Nitrate Coating Originating from a Suitcase Stored in the Collection of the Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum in Oświęcim, Poland
Authors: Jastrzębiowska Nel , Wawrzyk Anna , Uroda Natalia
Published: November 2023

The aim of this study was to assess the influence of a protective layer of polyvinyl alcohol on the degradation process of artificial leather based on cellulose nitrate. Samples of the artificial leather were obtained from a suitcase dating back to the first half of the 20th century, not considered a historical artifact. The analysis involved Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy with attenuated total reflection (FTIR-ATR) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Artificial aging was employed for the study. The artificial leather sample with a protective coating of polyvinyl alcohol on a cellulose nitrate base exhibited the lowest degree of degradation due to minimal chemical changes in cellulose esters. The obtained FTIR-ATR spectrum indicated significantly higher nitration of cellulose and, consequently, a lower degree of polymer degradation. The sample without the protective polyvinyl alcohol coating and the sample with the coating removed before artificial aging showed similar reactions.
Annual Transmittance Behavior of Light-Transmitting Concrete with Optical Fiber Bundles
Authors: Shenoy Adithya , Nayak Gopinatha , Tantri Adithya , Shetty Kiran Kumar , Shendkar Mangeshkumar R.
Published: November 2023

This study characterizes the transmittance behavior of structural light-transmitting concrete under natural sunlight. The experimentation involves the use of a novel test setup and a detailed analysis considering the variation and dependence on time of day, month of the year and seasonal variations. The test set consisted of 28 variations of fiber configurations, with two different diameters, spacing and bundling techniques used to increase the area of fibers while maintaining spacing to aid the placing of concrete without compromising on transmittance. The study provides a real-time observational understanding of the behavior of light-transmitting concrete, a result usually obtained by modelling and simulation. The statistical analysis helps in understanding the impact of various variables as well as their interrelationships, which can help in design optimization. Based on the behavior as well as the stipulations of standards, the applicability of the material to various structural applications has been identified.
Identification, Viability, and Membrane Potential during the Cryopreservation of Autochthonous Lactic-Acid Bacteria Isolated from Artisanal Adobera Cheese from Los Altos de Jalisco
Authors: Arteaga-Garibay Ramón Ignacio , Delgado-Macuil Raúl Jacobo , Gómez-Godínez Lorena Jacqueline , Cruz-Cárdenas Carlos Iván , Villagrán Zuamí , Giono-Cerezo Silvia , Zelaya-Molina Lily Xochitl , Anaya-Esparza Luis Miguel , Ruvalcaba-Gómez José Martín
Published: November 2023

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) comprise a group of microorganisms responsible for developing the sensory and chemical characteristics of several foods and fermented products, particularly cheese. For this reason, after isolation and identification of LAB, validated protocols and procedures for their long-term preservation without compromising its integrity and technological properties, as well as methodologies aiming to assess their viability and integrity are paramount. This study aimed to isolate and identify autochthonous LAB from artisanal Adobera cheese and determine the effect of LAB cryopreservation with thioglycolate broth and glycerol on their viability, membrane integrity, and kinetics. Sixteen LAB were isolated and genetically identified from artisanal cheese samples; eleven of those strains were selected (genus Lactobacillus, Leuconostoc, Streptococcus, and Lactococcus) and included in the cryo-preservation assay. The initial average concentration of the bacterial suspensions was 6.89 log10 CFU mL−1; increasing to 8.9 log10 CFU mL−1 21 days later and slightly reduced at day 42 post-preservation (losses below one logarithm). About 77% of the cells maintained their membrane potential 180 days after their preservation and showed normal Kinetic parameters, maintaining normal adaptation times (Lag phase) and Log phases (9 h average), before reaching the stationary phase. The proposed protocol constitutes a viable alternative to the long-term preservation of different LAB genera because it keeps their viability and integrity. Using flow cytometry allowed the enumeration of viable LAB and provide evidence of the integrity of their membrane.
Genotype-by-Environment Interaction Analysis for Quantity and Quality Traits in Faba Beans Using AMMI, GGE Models, and Stability Indices
Authors: Greveniotis Vasileios , Bouloumpasi Elisavet , Zotis Stylianos , Korkovelos Athanasios , Kantas Dimitrios , Ipsilandis Constantinos G.
Published: November 2023

Faba beans are considered one of the most important crops for animal feed. The genotype × environment interaction (GEI) has a considerable effect on faba bean seed production. The objectives of this study included assessing multiple locations and genotypes to understand how various ecosystems and faba bean genotypes relate to one another, and suggesting the ideal climatic conditions, crop management system, and genotypes so that they are carefully chosen for their stability. A 2-year experiment was conducted in order to define the stability across four environments based on stability indices for certain characteristics: moisture (%), ash content (%), crude protein content (%), crude fat (%), total starch (%), and crude fiber content (%). Statistically significant differences indicated that GEIs were present. The heritability was generally high for qualitative traits in comparison with quantitative traits. The crude protein content, plant height, and thousand-seed weight were all positively correlated with the seed yield; however, the other qualitative variables were adversely correlated. The crude protein content of the cultivar Tanagra displayed a high stability index, followed by Ste1. Under conventional management, Tanagra demonstrated high values for the seed yield in Giannitsa and Florina. Ste1 and Ste2 are particularly promising genetic materials that showed high values under low-input conditions. The best genotypes to use and the most favorable environments/types of cultivation were the Tanagra cultivar, followed by the Ste2 genotype, according to the additive main effects and multiplicative interaction (AMMI) and genotype plus genotype-by-environment (GGE) biplot models. Earliness showed significant heritability values and very high stability indices, again indicating qualitative behavior according to genetic parameters. With the exception of the number of pods per plant, which demonstrated low heritability while having excellent index values, traits like seed yield showed relatively low-stability-based heritability values. Global efforts aimed at improving the genetics of faba beans might benefit from genotypes that exhibit consistent yields in various conditions.
Four Days Are Enough to Provide a Reliable Daily Step Count in Mild to Moderate Parkinson’s Disease through a Commercial Smartwatch
Authors: Bianchini Edoardo , Galli Silvia , Alborghetti Marika , De Carolis Lanfranco , Zampogna Alessandro , Hansen Clint , Vuillerme Nicolas , Suppa Antonio , Pontieri Francesco E.
Published: November 2023

Daily steps could be a valuable indicator of real-world ambulation in Parkinson’s disease (PD). Nonetheless, no study to date has investigated the minimum number of days required to reliably estimate the average daily steps through commercial smartwatches in people with PD. Fifty-six patients were monitored through a commercial smartwatch for 5 consecutive days. The total daily steps for each day was recorded and the average daily steps was calculated as well as the working and weekend days average steps. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) (3,k), standard error of measurement (SEM), Bland–Altman statistics, and minimum detectable change (MDC) were used to evaluate the reliability of the step count for every combination of 2–5 days. The threshold for acceptability was set at an ICC ≥ 0.8 with a lower bound of CI 95% ≥ 0.75 and a SAM < 10%. ANOVA and Mann–Whitney tests were used to compare steps across the days and between the working and weekend days, respectively. Four days were needed to achieve an acceptable reliability (ICC range: 0.84–0.90; SAM range: 7.8–9.4%). In addition, daily steps did not significantly differ across the days and between the working and weekend days. These findings could support the use of step count as a walking activity index and could be relevant to developing monitoring, preventive, and rehabilitation strategies for people with PD.
Pedestrian Safety in Frontal Tram Collision, Part 2: Laminated Glass as a Crucial Part of the Absorption and Deformation Zone—Its Impact Test and Analysis
Authors: Jezdik Roman , Sebik Marek , Kubovy Petr , Marsik Frantisek , Lopot Frantisek , Hajkova Barbora , Hylmarova Dita , Havlicek Martin , Stocek Ondrej , Doubek Martin , Tikkanen Tommi , Svoboda Martin , Jelen Karel
Published: November 2023

As was shown in the previous part of the study, windshields are an important part of the passive safety means of modern low-floor trams with an extraordinary effect on pedestrian safety in a pedestrian–tram collisions. Therefore, maximum attention must be paid to the definition of tram windshield characteristics. This article describes a windshield crash test, from which data are obtained to verify the feasibility of the applied computational approaches. A developed analytical model is utilised for a simple description of the energy balance during collision with an illustrative definition of the important parameters of laminated glass as well as their clear physical interpretations. The finite element analysis (FEA) performed in Ansys software using two versions of material definition, namely a simpler (*MAT_ELASTIC with nonlocal failure criterion) and a more complex (*MAT_GLASS with brittle stress-state-dependent failure) material model, which are presented as suitable for obtaining a detailed description of the shattering process of laminated glass, which can also be used effectively in windshield engineering.
Navigating the Digital Sphere: Exploring Websites, Social Media, and Representation Costs—A European Union Case Study
Authors: Gorostiza-Cerviño Aritz , Serna-Ortega Álvaro , Moreno-Cabanillas Andrea , Castillo-Esparcia Antonio
Published: November 2023

In the intricate and multifaceted landscape of the European construction process, where the development and governance of the European Union take shape through a myriad of policies, institutions, and stakeholders, this study delves into the role of lobbies affiliated with the European Transparency Register. It focuses on the relationship between the utilization of social media platforms and the representation costs among interest groups. Analysis of data from 12,430 groups, encompassing website presence, social media engagement, and declared representation costs, reveals that 97.14% of groups maintain websites, while 67.52% actively use social media platforms. Among groups disclosing representation costs, the mean is EUR 181,333, with a median of EUR 74,999. Multiple linear regression analysis uncovers a positive association between Twitter and YouTube usage and representation costs, while Facebook usage demonstrates a negative correlation. However, no statistically significant relationships are observed for Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn. These findings offer insights into the potential impact of social media on representation costs for interest groups.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus: Willingness towards a Future Vaccine among Pregnant Women in Italy
Authors: Miraglia del Giudice Grazia , Sansone Vincenza , Airoma Francesca , Angelillo Silvia , Licata Francesca , Di Giuseppe Gabriella
Published: November 2023

Background: This cross-sectional survey was designed to evaluate pregnant women’s awareness regarding Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) infection and willingness to receive the vaccine during pregnancy and to vaccinate their newborn against RSV. Methods: An anonymous survey was administered from 20 April to 30 June 2023, to pregnant women aged ≥ 18 years attending gynecology wards of randomly selected public hospitals in southern Italy. A minimum sample size of 427 participants was calculated. The survey assessed women’s socio-demographic characteristics, health-related information, their source(s) of information, and attitudes regarding RSV. Results: A total of 490 women participated. Those who were married/cohabiting, with a high-school degree compared to those who had a university degree, and those who needed additional information were more concerned that the newborn could acquire the RSV infection. The perceived utility of a future RSV vaccine administered during pregnancy was higher among those who were married/cohabiting, with a university degree, those with very good perceived health status, those who received information from healthcare workers, and those who needed additional information. Only 45.9% were willing to be vaccinated during pregnancy, and this was more likely among those with a university degree, with a very good perceived health status, who had received information from healthcare workers, and who needed more information. Finally, almost two-thirds (61.1%) were willing to vaccinate their newborn, and this was more likely among women with a university degree, with a very good perceived health status, and who needed additional information. Conclusions: An education campaign regarding RSV infection and its vaccine is needed in order to improve women’s perception and to support healthcare workers in promoting it when it will be available.
SOCIALIZATION OF ANALGESIC EFFECTIVENESS OF REED ROOT ETHANOL EXTRACT (Imperata cylindrica L.) ON MALE WHITE MICE
Authors: Kartika Dewi
Published: November 2023

Pain is an unpleasant experience due to the presence of tissue damage. When a tissue is injured or damaged, it results in the release of materials that can stimulate pain receptors such as prostaglandins that will result in a pain response. Therapy using analgesic drugs can relieve pain. Empirically the roots of reeds are used as folk remedies for pain relief. Phytochemical screening results showed that reed roots contained flavonoids. Flavonoids contained in the roots of reeds can reduce pain by inhibiting the work of the enzyme cyclooxygenase. Tests that have been carried out on twenty male white rats induced using the infra red plantar test prove that there is a difference in the resistance of mice in resisting heat induction after being given the extract. Twenty male mice are divided into four groups. Three groups were given reed root ethanol extract at doses of 15, 30 and 60 mg/kg bb, one negative control group was given 0.5% CMC-Na and a positive control group was given mefenamic acid. The data obtained were processed using a one-way ANOVA and followed by a 95% level test. The conclusion can be that the higher the concentration the greater the analgesic power exerted, it is seen that the longer the response of mice in resisting the heat induction of the plantar test infra red.