bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling the Influence of Lockdown on Epidemic Progression and Economy
Authors: Mozokhina Anastasia , Popravka Ivan , Saade Masoud , Volpert Vitaly
Published: October 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the necessity of implementing non-pharmaceutical interventions such as lockdowns to mitigate the spread of infectious diseases. This study aims to model the impact of lockdown measures on the progression of an epidemic. Using a combination of compartmental models, specifically a novel delay model, we analyze the effects of varying lockdown intensities and durations on disease transmission dynamics. The results highlight that timely and stringent lockdowns can significantly reduce the peak number of infections and delay the epidemic’s peak, thereby alleviating pressure on healthcare systems. Moreover, our models demonstrate the importance of appropriate lifting of lockdowns to prevent a resurgence of cases. Analytical and numerical results reveal critical thresholds for lockdown efficacy from the epidemiological point of view, which depend on such factors as the basic reproduction number (ℜ0), disease duration, and immunity waning. In the case of a single outbreak with permanent immunity, we analytically determine the optimal proportion of isolated people which minimizes the total number of infected. While in the case of temporary immunity, numerical simulations show that the infectious cases decrease with respect to the proportion of isolated people during lockdowns; as we increase the proportion of isolated people, we have to increase the duration of lockdowns to obtain periodic outbreaks. Further, we assess the influence of epidemic with or without lockdown on the economy and evaluate its economical efficacy by means of the level of population wealth. The percentage of productive individuals among isolated people influences the wealth state of the population during lockdowns. The latter increases with the rise of the former for fixed epidemic parameters. This research provides valuable insights for policymakers in designing effective lockdown strategies to control future epidemics.
Spontaneous Formation of Evolutionary Game Strategies for Long-Term Carbon Emission Reduction Based on Low-Carbon Trading Mechanism
Authors: Zhu Zhanggen , Cheng Lefeng , Shen Teng
Published: October 2024

In the context of increasing global efforts to mitigate climate change, effective carbon emission reduction is a pressing issue. Governments and power companies are key stakeholders in implementing low-carbon strategies, but their interactions require careful management to ensure optimal outcomes for both economic development and environmental protection. This paper addresses this real-world challenge by utilizing evolutionary game theory (EGT) to model the strategic interactions between these stakeholders under a low-carbon trading mechanism. Unlike classical game theory, which assumes complete rationality and perfect information, EGT allows for bounded rationality and learning over time, making it particularly suitable for modeling long-term interactions in complex systems like carbon markets. This study builds an evolutionary game model between the government and power companies to explore how different strategies in carbon emission reduction evolve over time. Using payoff matrices and replicator dynamics equations, we determine the evolutionarily stable equilibrium (ESE) points and analyze their stability through dynamic simulations. The findings show that in the absence of a third-party regulator, neither party achieves an ideal ESE. To address this, a third-party regulatory body is introduced into the model, leading to the formulation of a tripartite evolutionary game. The results highlight the importance of regulatory oversight in achieving stable and optimal low-carbon strategies. This paper offers practical policy recommendations based on the simulation outcomes, providing a robust theoretical framework for government intervention in carbon markets and guiding enterprises towards sustainable practices.
Characterization Model Research on Deformation of Arch Dam Based on Correlation Analysis Using Monitoring Data
Authors: Shi Zhongwen , Li Jun , Wang Yanbo , Gu Chongshi , Jia Hailei , Xu Ningyuan , Zhai Junjie , Pan Wenming
Published: October 2024

Deformation is the most direct indicator of structural state changes in arch dams. Therefore, numerous deformation monitoring points are typically arranged on arch dams to obtain deformation data from each point. Considering the complex relationships between the deformation at each monitoring point, this study focuses on the internal structural relationships and information fusion within the dam. The Pearson correlation coefficient is used as a similarity index to determine significant linear correlations between the measuring points. Ward’s cluster analysis method is then applied to group these points based on their similarities. To identify measuring points with strong nonlinear correlations, the Maximum Information Coefficient (MIC) method is employed. By integrating these linear and nonlinear correlations, a model is constructed to characterize the deformation at specific measurement points using data from strongly correlated points. The effectiveness of this model is verified through a concrete engineering case study, offering a novel approach for analyzing arch dam deformations.
Fractal and Complex Patterns Existing in Music: Application to the Composition DIAPHONIES of Michael Paouris
Authors: Nikolopoulos Dimitrios , Petraki Ermioni
Published: October 2024

This paper reports fractal patterns identified in the complex musical composition DIAPHONIES by Michael Paouris via power-law fractal analysis with sliding-windows of size 1024. From 7,647,232 analysed musical segments of DIAPHONIES, 3,222,832 (42.4%) are fractional Brownian motion (fBm) fractal segments and 4,424,400 (57.6%) are fractional Gaussian noise (fGn) stochastic ones. From the fBm fractal segments 295,294 (9.1%) exhibit strong persistency-P with power-law segments in the range of 2.3≤b≤3. These are the very strong fractal areas in DIAPHONIES. Numerous segments with strong antipersistency 1.7≤b<2 are reported together with segments with AP changes (1.7≤b<2.3). In DIAPHONIES continuous fractal fBm areas are dipped in non-fractal fGn areas of deterministic music. The results are within the fBm fractal areas reported in existing papers. Very importantly, the simple composition called Nocturnal-Angel by Michael Paouris, exhibited limited fBm areas of average b¯=1.98 (σ=0.3), namely of pure statistical, deterministic music, while simultaneously, the fractal analysis profile was completely different from the profiles of DIAPHONIES, hence reinforcing, the fractal findings of DIAPHONIES in relation to trivial music harmony.
Multicentral Retrospective Analysis of Venetoclax-Based Treatments in AML and MDS: A Real-World Study by the Turkish Hematology Network Group
Authors: Acar Ibrahim Halil , Aslaner Ak Muzeyyen , Akyol Gulsah , Kars Taha Ulutan , Ipek Yildiz , Uysal Ayse , Atalay Figen , Senturk Yikilmaz Aysun , Ekinci Omer , Ince Idris , Onec Birgul , Keski Hakan , Okay Ozgeyik Mufide , Izmir Guner Sebnem , Terzi Demirsoy Esra , Bilgir Oktay , Guvenc Birol
Published: October 2024

Background and Objectives: Acute myeloid leukemia and myelodysplastic syndrome are both clonal hematologic malignancies that primarily affect older adults. Current treatments for AML/MDS are both limited in number and efficacy. This study aims to evaluate venetoclax-based therapies in AML/MDS, focusing on overall survival and recurrence-free survival rates, and to expand real-world data on its use. Materials and Methods: Clinical and laboratory data on patients with AML/MDS aged 18≥ treated with venetoclax between January 2019 and July 2022 were included. Survival analysis was calculated based on the period from 2019 to December 2023. Results: A total of 161 AML and 40 patients with MDS were included. The median age was 63.53 ± 15.30 years for AML and 70.12 ± 10.21 years for MDS. In both groups, over 55% are male. A total of 77.6% of patients with AML and 75% of patients with MDS received treatment prior to venetoclax. Venetoclax was administered in combination with azacitidine to 84.5% of AML and 67.5% of MDS. The relapse rate in AML is approximately 15%. Overall, the 2-year survival rate is 46% and 18.73 months. The overall CR/CRi rate for patients with AML is 49.1%, while for patients with MDS, it is 50%. The 2-year survival rate for patients with MDS is 52.7%. The 2-year RFS rate was 75.5% for AML and 90.9% for MDS. The relapse rate in AML is approximately 15%. The percentage of adverse events leading to treatment discontinuation among those with grade 3–4 toxicity is low; 26.7% for AML (n = 43) and 15% for MDS (n = 6). Conclusions: Our real-world data demonstrate that venetoclax has the potential to improve overall survival rates when used in combination with HMAs and supports its use in patients with AML/MDS.
Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Lifestyle Behavior and Clinical Care Pathway Management in Type 2 Diabetes: A Retrospective Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Cangelosi Giovanni , Mancin Stefano , Pantanetti Paola , Sguanci Marco , Morales Palomares Sara , De Luca Alessia , Biondini Federico , Tartaglia Francesco , Ferrara Gaetano , Petrelli Fabio
Published: October 2024

Background and Objectives: In Italy, as in the rest of the world, government restrictions aimed at containing the spread of COVID-19 primarily imposed limitations on social relationships and personal behavior. This situation significantly affected the management of chronic illnesses, including type 2 diabetes (T2D). The objective was to evaluate the perceptions of patients with T2D regarding the quality of care received during the COVID-19 pandemic and the impact on dietary and physical activity behaviors. Materials and Methods: We conducted a retrospective cross-sectional survey. Data were collected from June to July 2023 using the convenience sampling of patients with T2D, and the Patient Assessment of Chronic Illness Care (PACIC) and Medi-Lite questionnaires were administered. Results: During the research period, out of the 130 subjects who met all enrollment criteria, 103 patients were included in this study (79.23%). The results of the administered questionnaires were heterogeneous. The average scores from the PACIC Questionnaire for each question displayed significant variability, indicating a range of experiences in the quality of care. In the Medi-Lite survey, fruit, cereals, and olive oil showed the highest adherence levels, with mean scores ranging from 2.58 (SD ± 1.18) for fruit to 1.89 (SD ± 0.34) for olive oil and 1.97 (SD ± 0.17) for cereals. Patients who reported increased food intake during the lockdown attributed it to having more time to prepare meals. Physical activity levels remained unchanged for 48 patients, decreased for 45 patients, and only 9 patients managed to exercise more during the COVID-19 restrictions. Conclusions: Healthcare systems must prioritize comprehensive care plans for T2D that address not only physical health, but also emotional and social well-being. Post-pandemic, promoting healthier lifestyles and empowering patients to manage their condition is crucial. A multidisciplinary and multidimensional approach could support the care of vulnerable individuals, such as patients with T2D, especially during crises like pandemics or other dramatic events.
A Proposal for a Noxious Stimuli-Free, Moderate-Intensity Treadmill Running Protocol to Improve Aerobic Performance in Experimental Research on Rats
Authors: de Assis Gilmara Gomes , de Souza Elda Olivia Nobre , de Almeida-Neto Paulo Francisco , Ceylan Halil İbrahim , Bragazzi Nicola Luigi
Published: October 2024

Background/Objectives: Animal models can help understand human physiological responses, including the response to exercise and physical activity. However, many of these models incorporate noxious stimuli for various scientific purposes. We propose a noxious stimuli-free treadmill running training program for Rattus norvegicus species to study adaptations to aerobic exercise. Methods: In this study, rats were randomly allocated to training (n = 20) and sedentary (n = 20) groups. The training group underwent a program consisting of 30–50 min of treadmill running at 60% intensity, three times per week for 8 weeks. Maximum speed tasks (Tmax) were conducted to determine, adjust, and evaluate changes in fitness conditions. The rats had one week of familiarization with the treadmill, and a rubber ball was used at the back wall of the lane as a painless stimulus to encourage running. All assessments were conducted by two independent researchers in a double-blind manner, with data analysis conducted by a third-blind investigator. Results: A significant effect of time (η2p = 0.430, p < 0.001, large effect) could be found, showing differences between Tmax1 and Tmax2, and between Tmax1 and Tmax3 in both groups. The training group significantly outperformed the sedentary group (η2p = 0.266, p < 0.001, large effect). There was a significant interaction between time and condition (η2p = 0.152, p < 0.001, large effect). Conclusions: The proposed moderate-intensity treadmill running program could effectively differentiate between trained and sedentary conditions within both the short period of 4 weeks and the extended period of 8 weeks. This protocol can be used as a model for running on a treadmill for Rattus norvegicus species without the use of noxious stimuli.
Molecular Detection and Characterisation of Coxiella burnetii in Koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) Urogenital Tract Swabs
Authors: Mathews Karen O. , Phalen David , Sheehy Paul A. , Norris Jacqueline M. , Higgins Damien P. , Bosward Katrina L.
Published: October 2024

Q fever is a zoonosis caused by Coxiella burnetii, primarily affecting those in close contact with domestic ruminants, the main source of human infection. Coxiella burnetii has also been detected in various wildlife species globally. In Australia, serological and molecular studies have shown exposure to and infection by C. burnetii in macropods, bandicoots, and koalas. However, the extent to which these species contribute to human infection remains unclear. An unpublished public health investigation into a Q fever case in a person involved in koala care could not conclusively link the infection to koalas due to the patient’s broad animal exposure. This study aimed to explore the potential role of koalas in transmitting C. burnetii to humans by investigating the presence of C. burnetii DNA in urogenital tract (UGT) swabs from koalas. DNA was extracted from UGT swabs from koalas in three regions in New South Wales, Australia. An optimised multiplex qPCR assay detected C. burnetii DNA in 2 out of 225 samples (0.89%) at approximately 10 genome equivalents per reaction. Both positive samples amplified all three gene targets. MLVA genotyping identified two distinct C. burnetii genotypes previously isolated from Australian Q fever cases. These findings highlight the need for vaccination against Q fever for those in close contact with koalas.
Thermal Compatibility of New ACEI Derivatives with Popular Excipients Used to Produce Solid Pharmaceutical Formulations
Authors: Broncel Mateusz , Juszczak Anna , Szczolko Wojciech , Silvestri Daniele , Białek-Dratwa Agnieszka , Wacławek Stanisław , Kowalski Oskar , Ramos Paweł
Published: October 2024

Background/Objectives: Increasing drugs’ stability and adequately protecting them against degradation will ensure a decrease in their price and broader availability of pharmaceutical substances. This is of great importance, especially for drugs used to treat the most common diseases in the population, such as hypertension. The study examined two newly synthesized substances from the angiotensin I-converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEI) group as potential drugs. ACEIs are among the leading drugs used in the treatment of hypertension in the world. The chemical modifications of the tested substances applied concerned the places most susceptible to degradation. The presented work analyzed the compatibility of new derivatives with selected excipients used in pharmacy. Methods: Thermogravimetric (TGA) and differential thermal analyses (c-DTA) were used as the main methods. In addition, non-thermal methods such as colorimetry analysis, Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) and UV spectroscopy were used. Results: Based on the conducted studies, it can be concluded that the incompatibility of IND-1 with glucose anhydrous and lactose monohydrate occurs only when the mixture is stored at higher temperatures. For the remaining IND-1 and IND-2 mixtures with excipients, compatibility was demonstrated. Conclusions: The obtained results confirmed the usefulness of the applied thermal analyses (TGA and c-DTA) for assessing the compatibility of the tested potential drugs with excipients. However, in the case of incompatibility reactions of substances occurring under the influence of elevated temperatures, such as the Maillard reaction, it is necessary to use non-thermal methods to obtain the right result.
Lubiprostone Improves Distal Segment-Specific Colonic Contractions through TRPC4 Activation Stimulated by EP3 Prostanoid Receptor
Authors: Jeong Byeongseok , Lee Jun Hyung , Lee Jin-A , Kim Seong Jung , Lee Junhyung , So Insuk , Jun Jae Yeoul , Hong Chansik
Published: October 2024

Background: Prokinetic agents are effective in increasing gastrointestinal (GI) contractility and alleviating constipation, often caused by slow intestinal motility. Lubiprostone (LUB), known for activating CLC-2 chloride channels, increases the chloride ion concentration in the GI tract, supporting water retention and stool movement. Despite its therapeutic efficacy, the exact mechanisms underlying its pharmacological action are poorly understood. Here, we investigated whether LUB activates the canonical transient receptor potential cation channel type 4 (TRPC4) through stimulation with E-type prostaglandin receptor (EP) type 3. Methods: Using isotonic tension recordings on mouse colon strips, we examined LUB-induced contractility in both proximal and distal colon segments. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was conducted to determine mRNA levels of EP1-4 receptor subtypes in distal colonic muscular strips and isolated myocytes. The effects of a TRPC4 blocker and EP3 antagonist on LUB-stimulated contractions were also evaluated. Results: LUB showed significant contraction in the distal segment compared to the proximal segment. EP3 receptor mRNA levels were highly expressed in the distal colon tissue, which correlated with the observed enhanced contraction. Furthermore, LUB-induced spontaneous contractions in distal colon muscles were reduced by a TRPC4 blocker or EP3 antagonist, indicating that LUB-stimulated EP3 receptor activation may lead to TRPC4 activation and increased intracellular calcium in colonic smooth muscle. Conclusions: These findings suggest that LUB improves mass movement through indirect activation of the TRPC4 channel in the distal colon. The segment-specific action of prokinetic agents like LUB provides compelling evidence for a personalized approach to symptom management, supporting the defecation reflex.
Heterobivalent Dual-Target Peptide for Integrin-αvβ3 and Neuropeptide Y Receptors on Breast Tumor
Authors: Ferreira Aryel H. , Real Caroline C. , Malafaia Osvaldo
Published: October 2024

Background/Objectives: Heterodimer peptides targeting more than one receptor can be advantageous, as tumors can simultaneously express more than one receptor type. For human breast cancer, a promising biological target is tumor angiogenesis through αvβ3 integrin expression. Another promising target is Neuropeptide Y receptors, considering Y1R is overexpressed in 90% of human breast tumors. This article details the development and preclinical evaluation, both in vitro and in vivo, of a novel heterodimer peptide dual-receptor-targeting probe, [99mTc]HYNIC-cRGDfk-NPY, designed for imaging breast tumors. Methods: Female BALB/c healthy mice were used to perform biodistrubution studies and female SCID mice were subcutaneously injected with MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 tumor cells. [99mTc]HYNIC-cRGDfk-NPY was intravenously administered to the mice, followed by ex vivo biodistribution studies and small-animal SPECT/CT imaging. Nonspecific tracer uptake in both models was determined by coinjecting an excess of unlabeled HYNIC-cRGDfk-NPY (100 µg) along with the radiolabeled tracer. Results: Imaging and biodistribution data demonstrate good uptake to estrogen receptor-positive (MCF-7) and triple-negative (MDA-MB-231) tumor models. The in vivo tumor uptakes of radiolabeled conjugate were 9.30 ± 3.25% and 4.93 ± 1.01% for MCF-7 and MDA-MB231, respectively. The tumor/muscle ratios were 5.65 ± 0.94 for the MCF-7 model and 7.78 ± 3.20 for MDA-MB231. Conclusions: [99mTc]HYNIC-cRGDfk-NPY demonstrated rapid blood clearance, renal excretion, and in vivo tumor uptake, highlighting its potential as a tumor imaging agent.
Methods for Determination of Antimicrobial Activity of Essential Oils In Vitro—A Review
Authors: Hulankova Radka
Published: October 2024

Essential oils (EOs) have been gaining popularity in the past decades among researchers due to their potential to replace conventional chemicals used in the fight against pests, pathogenic and spoilage microbes, and oxidation processes. EOs are complex mixtures with many chemical components, the content of which depends on many factors—not just the plant genus, species, or subspecies, but also chemotype, locality, climatic conditions, phase of vegetation, method of extraction, and others. Due to this fact, there is still much to study, with antimicrobial effect being one of the key properties of EOs. There are many methods that have been frequently used by researchers for in vitro evaluation; however, although the research has been going on for decades, an internationally accepted standard is still missing. Most of methods are based on time-proven standards used for the testing of antibiotics. Due to the specific properties of EOs and their components, such as volatility and hydrophobicity, many modifications of these standard procedures have been adopted. The aim of this review is to describe the most common methods and their modifications for the testing of antimicrobial properties of EOs and to point out the most controversial variables which can potentially affect results of the assays.
Ultrasonic Technology for Hydrocarbon Raw Recovery and Processing
Authors: Myltykbayeva Zhannur , Mussabayeva Binur , Ongarbayev Yerdos , Imanbayev Yerzhan , Muktaly Dinara
Published: October 2024

This review discusses recent research findings spanning the last two decades concerning ultrasonic technologies applicable to the oil, gas, and coal sectors. Various experiments conducted in laboratories have demonstrated the efficacy, cost-effectiveness, and environmental friendliness of ultrasound in recovering and processing oil, bitumen, coal, and oil shale. Ultrasound enhances formation permeability, coal gas permeability, and oil viscosity, particularly when delivered in short, powerful pulses at medium frequencies. Combining ultrasound with traditional recovery methods has shown promising results, boosting recovery efficiency by up to 100%. At the same time, ultrasonic treatment reduces the use of traditional reagents, thereby reducing environmental pollution. Moreover, ultrasound treatment shows potential in tasks such as separating oil–water emulsions, desulfurization, dewaxing oil, coal enrichment, and extracting valuable metals from metal-bearing shales through hydrometallurgical leaching. However, the widespread industrial implementation of ultrasonic technology necessitates further field and mathematical research.
Numerical Simulation Study on Optimal CO2 Injection Well Placement for Sequestration in Old Gob: A Case Study of the Huainan Mining Area
Authors: Chen Yongchun , Xu Yanfei , Tian Yuchen , Zhang Helong , Xue Bo , Chen Shiheng , Liu Yinghai , Liu Yanzhi , Liu Shiqi , Sang Shuxun , Zheng Sijian
Published: October 2024

The old gob, as a potential CO2 geological storage reservoir, has huge storage potential. To clarify the distribution characteristics and storage capacity of CO2 in the old gob after different well deployment schemes, this study, based on the actual geological conditions of the old gob in the Huainan mining area, uses the COMSOL software to numerically simulate CO2 injection into the old gob, considering the heterogeneity of permeability and the difference in coal-rock adsorption capacity within the old gob. The research indicates that the distribution characteristics of CO2 are significantly influenced by the deployment scheme. Specifically, different deployment schemes result in varying CO2 concentrations and distribution patterns. Particularly, when the injection well is deployed at a depth of 65 m, the distribution of CO2 in the low-permeability upper part of the old gob will significantly increase and the horizontal distribution range will significantly decrease. Under different well deployment modes, the CO2 storage capacity varies significantly. When the injection well is deployed at a depth of 65 m, it is more conducive to the storage of CO2 than at other deeper depths and the total storage capacity is larger. In addition, increasing the number of monitoring wells helps the migration and diffusion of CO2 in the old gob. Reasonably increasing the number of monitoring wells and adopting a symmetric deployment mode can significantly improve the CO2 storage capacity in the old gob. Through a reasonable deployment scheme, the CO2 storage capacity in the old gob can be more than 1.8 times that of the single monitoring well deployment scheme. Overall, based on the analysis of the distribution characteristics and storage capacity, the vertical positioning of the injection wells and the deployment mode of the monitoring wells that are conducive to improving the CO2 storage capacity in the old gob are obtained, which can provide an important reference for the well deployment scheme of CO2 storage in the old gob.
Finding Free OER Textbooks Online: Untangling the Web
Authors: Walters William H.
Published: October 2024

Although Open Educational Resources (OERs) can help reduce costs and maximize access to instructional materials, academics face significant problems in identifying good OER textbooks. This can be traced, in part, to the low quality of many OER directories. This study evaluated more than 350 potentially relevant resources, identifying 95 multidisciplinary and 23 subject-limited OER directories that include a relatively high proportion of free textbooks rather than other OERs (syllabi, assessment materials, etc.). Comparative information is presented for each of the 118 directories, with special attention to those with high recall, high precision, explicit and meaningful selection criteria, and consistently good textbook quality. The results focus on the characteristics of the OER directories, the extent to which they support the discovery of textbooks, the particular directories that are likely to be most useful, and the ways in which the most useful directories are systematically different from the others. There are at least 24 high-quality OER directories, but three—the Open Textbook Library, the B.C. Open Collection, and LibreTexts Commons—are especially useful. By devoting more attention to directories such as these, we can overcome the greatest barrier to the adoption of OER textbooks—the difficulty of identifying titles that can replace conventional texts.
Effect of Unanticipated Tasks on Side-Cutting Stability of Lower Extremity with Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
Authors: Ma Yiwen , Quan Wenjing , Wang Xuting , Baker Julien S. , Gao Zixiang , Gu Yaodong
Published: October 2024

Background: Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is one of the most common causes of anterior knee pain encountered in the outpatient setting. The purpose of this study was to compare the lower limb biomechanical differences during anticipated and unanticipated side-cutting in athletes with PFPS. Methods: Fifteen male basketball players diagnosed with PFPS were enrolled in the study. Participants executed both anticipated and unanticipated 45-degree side-cutting tasks. Motion analysis systems, force plates, and electromyography (EMG) were used to assess the lower limb joint angles, joint moments, joint stiffness, and patellofemoral joint contact forces. Analyzed biomechanical data were used to compare the differences between the two circumstances. Results: Unanticipated side-cutting resulted in significantly increased ankle plantarflexion and dorsiflexion angles, knee abduction and internal rotation angles, and hip abduction angles, as well as heightened knee adduction moments. Additionally, patellofemoral joint contact forces and stress increased, while contact area decreased during unanticipated tasks. Conclusions: Unanticipated movement raises the demands for joint stability and neuromuscular control, increasing injury risks in athletes with PFPS. These findings have practical implications for developing targeted rehabilitation programs and injury prevention strategies.
Investigation of the Bending Process and Theory in Free-Boundary Pneumatic Film-Forming for Curved Image Sensors
Authors: Zheng Weihan , Li Chunlai , Hu Jiangcheng , Guo Liang
Published: October 2024

To explore the bending process and theory of the free-boundary aerodynamic film forming method for curved detectors, this study integrates practical forming structures with theoretical analysis and establishes a simulation model to investigate stress, strain, and morphological changes during bending. The analysis indicates that the shift from “projection” to “wrapping” in forming theory is due to the release of boundary degrees of freedom. The forming process can be summarized as the mold’s arc characteristics, originating from the chip’s corners, gradually replacing the chip’s rectangular characteristics along the diagonal, resulting in corresponding stress and strain changes. The “wrapping” bending theory of this method has significant advantages over traditional methods and represents a crucial direction for achieving higher curvature in the future. However, this study found that the use of film pressure can only inhibit out-of-plane deformation to a certain extent, and the buckling phenomenon will still occur when the thinner chip is bent. It prevents the use of thinner chips in the thinning–bending method, so avoiding out-of-plane deformation during the molding process is the direction that needs to be broken in the future.
Real-Time Prediction of Resident ADL Using Edge-Based Time-Series Ambient Sound Recognition
Authors: Lee Cheolhwan , Yuh Ah Hyun , Kang Soon Ju
Published: October 2024

To create an effective Ambient Assisted Living (AAL) system that supports the daily activities of patients or the elderly, it is crucial to accurately detect and differentiate user actions to determine the necessary assistance. Traditional intrusive methods, such as wearable or object-attached devices, can interfere with the natural behavior of patients and may lead to resistance. Furthermore, non-intrusive systems that rely on video or sound data processed by servers or the cloud can generate excessive data traffic and raise concerns about the security of personal information. In this study, we developed an edge-based real-time system for detecting Activities of Daily Living (ADL) using ambient noise. Additionally, we introduced an online post-processing method to enhance classification performance and extract activity events from noisy sound in resource-constrained environments. The system, tested with data collected in a living space, achieved high accuracy in classifying ADL-related behaviors in continuous events and successfully generated user activity logs from time-series sound data, enabling further analyses such as ADL assessments. Future work will focus on enhancing detection accuracy and expanding the range of detectable behaviors by integrating the activity logs generated in this study with additional data sources beyond sound.
A Machine Learning Approach for Predicting Pedaling Force Profile in Cycling
Authors: Ahmadi Reza , Rasoulian Shahram , Veisari Samira Fazeli , Parsaei Atousa , Heidary Hamidreza , Herzog Walter , Komeili Amin
Published: October 2024

Accurate measurement of pedaling kinetics and kinematics is vital for optimizing rehabilitation, exercise training, and understanding musculoskeletal biomechanics. Pedal reaction force, the main external force in cycling, is essential for musculoskeletal modeling and closely correlates with lower-limb muscle activity and joint reaction forces. However, sensor instrumentation like 3-axis pedal force sensors is costly and requires extensive postprocessing. Recent advancements in machine learning (ML), particularly neural network (NN) models, provide promising solutions for kinetic analyses. In this study, an NN model was developed to predict radial and mediolateral forces, providing a low-cost solution to study pedaling biomechanics with stationary cycling ergometers. Fifteen healthy individuals performed a 2 min pedaling task at two different self-selected (58 ± 5 RPM) and higher (72 ± 7 RPM) cadences. Pedal forces were recorded using a 3-axis force system. The dataset included pedal force, crank angle, cadence, power, and participants’ weight and height. The NN model achieved an inter-subject normalized root mean square error (nRMSE) of 0.15 ± 0.02 and 0.26 ± 0.05 for radial and mediolateral forces at high cadence, respectively, and 0.20 ± 0.04 and 0.22 ± 0.04 at self-selected cadence. The NN model’s low computational time suits real-time pedal force predictions, matching the accuracy of previous ML algorithms for estimating ground reaction forces in gait.
Mobile Spatiotemporal Gait Segmentation Using an Ear-Worn Motion Sensor and Deep Learning
Authors: Decker Julian , Boborzi Lukas , Schniepp Roman , Jahn Klaus , Wuehr Max
Published: October 2024

Mobile health technologies enable continuous, quantitative assessment of mobility and gait in real-world environments, facilitating early diagnoses of gait disorders, disease progression monitoring, and prediction of adverse events like falls. Traditionally, mobile gait assessment predominantly relied on body-fixed sensors positioned at the feet or lower trunk. Here, we investigate the potential of an algorithm utilizing an ear-worn motion sensor for spatiotemporal segmentation of gait patterns. We collected 3D acceleration profiles from the ear-worn sensor during varied walking speeds in 53 healthy adults. Temporal convolutional networks were trained to detect stepping sequences and predict spatial relations between steps. The resulting algorithm, mEar, accurately detects initial and final ground contacts (F1 score of 99% and 91%, respectively). It enables the determination of temporal and spatial gait cycle characteristics (among others, stride time and stride length) with good to excellent validity at a precision sufficient to monitor clinically relevant changes in walking speed, stride-to-stride variability, and side asymmetry. This study highlights the ear as a viable site for monitoring gait and proposes its potential integration with in-ear vital-sign monitoring. Such integration offers a practical approach to comprehensive health monitoring and telemedical applications, by integrating multiple sensors in a single anatomical location.
Influence of Dregs Waste on the Alkali–Silica Reaction: A Comparative Analysis among Different Types of Cement
Authors: Falcão Juliane , Melo Rodrigo , Masuero Angela , Dal Molin Denise
Published: October 2024

Dregs waste, a byproduct from green liquor clarification in the pulp industry, is increasingly generated as global cellulose production rises. This accumulation, along with its underutilization, presents environmental challenges and opportunities for reuse. The study focuses on the high alkali content in dregs, which can impact cement durability. The main objective is to analyze the effect of dregs on the alkali–silica reaction in mortars. Dregs were incorporated into mortar mixtures at 0%, 5%, 10%, and 15% proportions relative to cement mass, using six types of Brazilian cement and a blend with silica fume. The alkali–silica reactivity was assessed via the accelerated mortar prism test (ABNT NBR 15577-4:2018), with compressive strength tests and scanning electron microscopy evaluating structural integrity and microstructural changes. The results indicated that adding 5% dregs improved compressive strength in certain mortars, such as CP V-ARI RS, CP II-F, and CP IV. However, at 15% dregs, compressive strength significantly decreased, particularly in CP V with 10% silica fume. Cements with high pozzolanic content, such as CP IV and CP III, showed strong potential to inhibit ASR expansion. However, of the 28 mixtures analyzed, only four containing CP III had expansions within the limits set by standards. This study highlights the potential of incorporating dregs as a supplementary material in cement, promoting sustainability in the industry and reducing environmental impact.
CO2 Levels in Classrooms: What Actions to Take to Improve the Quality of Environments and Spaces
Authors: Settimo Gaetano , Indinnimeo Luciana , Inglessis Marco , De Felice Marco , Morlino Roberta , di Coste Annalisa , Carriera Fabiana , Di Fiore Cristina , Avino Pasquale
Published: October 2024

Indoor air quality (IAQ) is a crucial priority, especially since people spend most of their time indoors. Indoor air can be more polluted than outdoor air due to sources such as building materials, cleaning products, and heating systems. This condition can affect health and productivity, especially in schools and work environments. Students spend about a third of their day in classrooms, and studies have shown that poor IAQ can cause respiratory and allergic problems, especially among children, who are more vulnerable. Poor ventilation and excessive CO2 concentration are indicators of suboptimal indoor air quality, which can lead to symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, and worsening asthma. In Italy, the lack of specific legislation on indoor air quality in schools is a problem, but improved ventilation, both natural and mechanical, and monitoring of CO2 levels are recommended to prevent negative health consequences. This paper aims to describe a methodology to improve IAQ in schools. The paper discusses the results of a study conducted on CO2 and PM10 levels measured in real time in cold season (Nov–Mar) in different classrooms of primary and secondary schools present in a large Italian urban area in order to understand the IAQ state and identify possible improvement actions.
Demographic and Built Environment Predictors of Public Transportation Retention and Work-from-Home Changes in Small- to Medium-Sized Massachusetts Cities, 2011–2021
Authors: Shakespeare Rebecca Marie , Srinivasan Sumeeta
Published: October 2024

Transportation uses substantial energy and is a significant household expense in the United States; public transportation and working from home present opportunities to reduce energy use and increase household affordability. However, during COVID-19, transportation systems reduced service, and nationwide, public transportation use has been declining. Focusing on six small-to-medium-sized “Gateway Cities” in Massachusetts—more affordable cities with lower-than-state-average median income and lower-than-state-average education—that have regional transit systems and are within Boston’s commuter rail area, we analyzed the changes in public transit ridership and work from home. We estimated linear and hierarchical linear regression models to understand the association between demographics and built environment and lower emission modes to work between 2011 and 2021. We used GIS to visualize the distribution of public transit ridership and work from home over time and space. We found that the block groups in our sample retained public transit users over the study period and saw increases in working from home. Across all cities, transit ridership was more likely to increase in block groups with higher accessibility to jobs and more frequent transportation to those jobs; work-from-home was more likely to increase in block groups with a lower percentage of Hispanic residents and lower rent burden. We found that most block groups either saw an increase in ridership or working from home, suggesting that work from home and public transit users are spatially segmented groups.
Drainage and Afforestation More Strongly Affect Soil Microbial Composition in Fens than Bogs of Subtropical Moss Peatlands
Authors: Zhang Putao , Yang Junheng , Cui Haijun , Song Weifeng , Liu Yingying , Shi Xunxun , Bi Xiaoting , Yuan Suyao
Published: October 2024

Subtropical moss peatlands have important ecological functions, and their protection and restoration are urgent. The lack of understanding of the biogeochemical changes in subtropical moss peatlands after human disturbance, particularly regarding their underground ecological changes, limits the efforts towards their protection and restoration. In this study, typical subtropical moss peatlands and the Cryptomeria swamp forest (CSF) formed by long-term (more than 20 years) drainage and afforestation in the Yunnan–Guizhou Plateau of China were selected as the research sites. Moreover, 16S rRNA high-throughput sequencing technology was used to study the differences in soil bacterial community diversity and composition among a natural Sphagnum fen (SF), Polytrichum bog (PB), and CSF to explore the effects of drainage and afforestation on different types of moss peatlands and its mechanism combined with soil physicochemical properties. Results showed that (1) drainage and afforestation significantly reduced the α diversity of soil bacterial communities in SF while significantly increasing the α diversity of soil bacterial communities in PB. Soil bacterial communities of SF had the highest α diversity and had many unique species or groups at different taxonomic levels. (2) The impact of drainage and afforestation on the soil bacterial community composition in SF was significantly higher than that in PB. Drainage and afforestation caused significant changes in the composition and relative abundance of dominant groups of soil bacteria in SF at different taxonomic levels, such as significantly reducing the relative abundance of Proteobacteria, significantly increasing the relative abundance of Acidobacteria, and significantly reducing the ratio of Proteobacteria to Acidobacteria, but did not have a significant impact on the corresponding indicators of PB. The changes in the ratio of Proteobacteria to Acidobacteria may reflect changes in the trophic conditions of peatlands. (3) Soil moisture content, available phosphorus content, and pH were key driving factors for changes in soil bacterial community composition and diversity, which should be paid attention to in the restoration of moss peatlands. This study provides insights into the protection and restoration of subtropical moss peatlands.
On the Damped Pinney Equation from Noether Symmetry Principles
Authors: Haas Fernando
Published: October 2024

There are several versions of the damped form of the celebrated Pinney equation, which is the natural partner of the undamped time-dependent harmonic oscillator. In this work, these dissipative versions of the Pinney equation are briefly reviewed. We show that Noether’s theorem for the usual time-dependent harmonic oscillator as a guiding principle for derivation of the Pinney equation also works in the damped case, selecting a Noether symmetry-based damped Pinney equation. The results are extended to general nonlinear damped Ermakov systems. A certain time-rescaling always allows to remove the damping from the final equations.
Hepatitis Delta Virus Clade 8 Is the Predominant Clade Circulating in Botswana amongst People Living with HIV
Authors: Baruti Kabo , Choga Wonderful T. , Motshosi Patience C. , Phinius Bonolo B. , Phakedi Basetsana , Bhebhe Lynnette N. , Mpebe Gorata G. A. , Tsayang Chanana D. , Ratsoma Tsholofelo , Gaolathe Tendani , Mosepele Mosepele , Makhema Joseph , Shapiro Roger , Lockman Shahin , Moyo Sikhulile , Jongman Mosimanegape , Anderson Motswedi , Gaseitsiwe Simani
Published: October 2024

Hepatitis delta virus (HDV) co-infections more often result in severe hepatitis compared to hepatitis B virus (HBV) infections alone. Despite a high HDV prevalence (7.1%), information regarding circulating HDV clades is very limited in Botswana. We extracted total nucleic acid from confirmed HDV-positive samples and quantified their viral load. We then sequenced the large hepatitis delta antigen (L-HDAg) using Oxford Nanopore Technology (ONT). Genotyping was performed using the HDV Database, and HDV mutation profiling was performed on AliView. All participants with HBV genotypic information belonged to sub-genotype A1, and 80% (4/5) of them had a higher HDV viral load and a lower HBV viral load. We sequenced 75% (9/12) of the HDV-positive samples, which belonged to HDV clade 8. A total of 54 mutations were discovered, with the most prevalent being Q148R (16%), D149P (16%) and G151D (16%). Known mutations such as S117A, K131R, R139K and G151D were detected, while the other mutations were novel. Our results reveal that HDV clade 8 is the predominant clade in Botswana. The significance of all mutations remains unclear. Future studies with a larger sample size to detect other HDV clades that might be circulating in Botswana and functionally characterize the detected mutations are warranted.
Understanding Vaccine Hesitancy: A Comparison of Sociodemographic and Socioeconomic Predictors with Health Literacy Dimensions
Authors: Lamot Monika , Kirbiš Andrej
Published: October 2024

Vaccine hesitancy represents a global public health challenge that can diminish the effectiveness of vaccination programs. Research indicates that various sociodemographic and socioeconomic factors, along with health literacy, predict vaccine hesitancy. In this study, we analyzed data from a Slovenian health literacy survey that included 3360 adult participants. We examined the effects of sociodemographic (gender and age) and socioeconomic factors (education, economic deprivation, and self-assessed socioeconomic status), as well as different dimensions of health literacy (general, communicative, and navigational), on vaccine hesitancy. The results show that age, education, and economic deprivation are statistically significant predictors of vaccine hesitancy; younger individuals, those with lower education levels, and those experiencing greater economic deprivation express increased vaccine hesitancy. Higher levels of general and communicative health literacy are associated with lower vaccine hesitancy, while navigational health literacy was not found to be a statistically significant predictor of vaccine hesitancy.
Assessing the Impact of Climate Change on an Ungauged Watershed in the Congo River Basin
Authors: Masamba Stephane , Fuamba Musandji , Hassanzadeh Elmira
Published: October 2024

This study assesses the impact of climate change on streamflow characteristics in the Lualaba River Basin (LRB), an important yet ungauged watershed in the Congo River Basin. Two conceptual hydrological models, HBV-MTL and GR4J, were calibrated using the reanalysis datasets and outputs of Generalized Circulation Models (GCMs) under CMIP6 during the historical period. The hydrological models were fed with outputs of GCMs under shared socioeconomic pathways (SSPs) 2-45 and 5-85, moderate- and high-radiative future scenarios. The results demonstrate that hydrological models successfully simulate observed streamflow, but their performance varies significantly with the choice of climate data and model structure. Interannual streamflow (Q) percentiles (10, 50, 90) were used to describe flow conditions under future climate. Q10 is projected to increase by 33% under SSP2-45 and 44% under SSP5-85, suggesting higher flow conditions that are exceeded 90% of the time. Q50 is also expected to rise by almost the same rate. However, a considerably higher Q90 is projected to increase by 56% under the moderate- and 80% under the high-radiative scenario. These indicate the overall higher water availability in this watershed to be used for energy and food production and the need for flood risk management.