bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Normalized frequency‐domain block sign algorithm using ℓ1$\ell _{1}$‐norm minimization
Authors: Choi Jeong‐Hwan , Chang Joon‐Hyuk
Published: June 2024

In this letter, a normalized frequency‐domain block sign‐error algorithm (NFBSA) is proposed by minimizing the ‐norm of the posteriori error vector for filter weight. The NFBSA updates the filter weight vector by employing the sign value of the priori error vector, which can mitigate the impact of impulsive noise. Furthermore, a variable step‐size algorithm (VSS) suitable for application in the NFBSA is proposed, which minimizes the ‐norm of the posteriori error vector with respect to the step‐size. The system identification simulations are conducted using a first‐order autoregressive signal as an input, assuming that impulsive noise occurs. The simulation results demonstrate that the NFBSA exhibits superior misalignment performance compared to the conventional time‐domain sign algorithm, and the NFBSA with the proposed VSS outperformed other VSS‐based sign algorithms.
A probabilistic approach on uncertainty modelling and their effect on the optimal operation of charging stations
Authors: K. K. Nandini , N. S. Jayalakshmi , Jadoun Vinay Kumar
Published: June 2024

Uncertainty analysis deals with the fluctuations and unpredictability of the electrical power generated from renewable resources (RRs), such as solar PV and wind energy systems. This paper gives an insight into various techniques used for the uncertainty analysis and a probabilistic Monte Carlo Simulation is applied for modelling the uncertainties concerned with RRs and electric vehicle (EV) load in the MATLAB platform. The uncertainty associated with the price sensitivity of EV charging and the state of charge of EVs is taken as a prime factor for analysis in the present work. Despite the fluctuations and unpredictability of electricity generation and consumption, the considered system ensures that the total amount of electricity supplied by solar PV, wind and grid matches the total amount of electricity demanded by EV load. Rao‐1, Rao‐2 and Rao‐3 algorithms are applied in this work to optimize the operation cost of charging stations under uncertain conditions and without any uncertainties. The results obtained without uncertainties by Rao algorithms are compared with the existing particle swarm optimisation method. In the presence of uncertainties, Rao‐1 and Rao‐2 algorithms are compared with Rao‐3 and it is found that the Rao‐3 algorithm performed better.
Optimized decomposition and identification method for multiple power quality disturbances
Authors: Zhaoqing Wang , Yanzhao Chang , Jianlei Chen , Weiyu Bao
Published: June 2024

The complexity of power quality (PQ) concerns is intensifying in tandem with the proliferation of inverter‐based renewable energy systems. The integration of power electronic devices within the distribution network exacerbates the complexity and introduces greater temporal variability to signal components. This paper introduces an advanced, online optimization technique for the decomposition and identification of PQ disturbances (PQDs). Initially, an improved variational mode decomposition (IVMD) method is presented, leveraging an energy ratio criterion for precise decomposition of concurrent PQDs. Subsequently, utilizing the characteristic attributes derived from IVMD, an optimized support vector machine (OSVM) algorithm is developed through the synthesis of diverse kernel functions. The OSVM strategically employs distinct kernel functions to augment the discriminability of the feature set. The synergy of IVMD and OSVM enables the detection of multiple PQDs, remarkably even with a minimal amount of training data. A series of experiments have been conducted to validate the effectiveness of the proposed methodology. The results corroborate that the formulated framework exhibits robust learning capabilities and a high degree of resistance to noise interference. Moreover, the hardware platform experiments prove that the proposed method has a satisfactory real‐time performance for its practicability.
Research on transmission line path planning model based on TFN‐AHP and ACO
Authors: Wang Bin , Hua Chunliang , Luo Haijun , Suo Bao , Zu Guohua
Published: June 2024

Transmission line planning is affected by a variety of geographic information factors, and traditional path planning methods are difficult to meet the future intelligent planning needs. Here, based on the geographic information system platform for geographic information data processing, the triangular fuzzy number analytic hierarchy process (TFN‐AHP) is utilized for weight analysis to construct the cost layer. Meanwhile, guided mechanism, dimension‐reducing mechanism, and avoidance mechanism are proposed to improve the ant colony optimization (ACO) algorithm, to shorten the planning time and improve the route planning effect. Finally, a local area in Guizhou Province is selected for case study and compared with the results of traditional ant colony optimization, and the results prove the effectiveness of the transmission line planning model proposed here.
AI‐generated video steganography based on semantic segmentation
Authors: Lin Yangping , Luo Peng , Zhang Zhuo , Liu Jia , Yang Xiaoyuan
Published: June 2024

Traditional video steganography methods primarily rely on modifying concealed spaces for embedding, thereby exhibiting a certain degree of security and embedding capacity. Nevertheless, these methods do not fully capitalize on the rich semantic information inherent in videos, limiting their overall effectiveness. In this paper, an AI‐generated video steganography scheme based on semantic segmentation is proposed. The mapping relationship between secret and semantic information is established by using a semantic segmentation model. The secret information can be converted into semantic labels by semantic histograms or pixels means, and semantic labels containing secret information are obtained and input into the video‐to‐video model to drive the generation of stego videos. After receiving the stego video, the receiver extracts the secret information using a pre‐defined specific embedding mode, including the methods of sub‐block partitioning and embedding capacity per frame. The experimental results show that the stego video has good visual quality, security, and robustness against various noise attacks.
Application of machine learning for signal recognition in distributed fibre optic acoustic sensing technology
Authors: Zhan Yage , Liu Lirui , Li Kehan
Published: June 2024

Coherent Rayleigh scattering‐based distributed fibre optic sensing technology enables real‐time acquisition of vibration and acoustic information along the optical fibres. However, the complexity of monitoring environments often leads to false alarms and missed detections during the process of information source identification with distributed acoustic sensing (DAS). Therefore, it becomes crucial to effectively extract meaningful signal features and perform accurate pattern recognition in the presence of external noise disturbance. The authors provide a comprehensive review of signal feature extraction and pattern recognition techniques applied in DAS technology. After introducing the fundamentals of DAS, specific applications are considered, and the following techniques have been analysed and compared: feature extraction algorithms based on wavelet decomposition, feature extraction schemes utilising other decomposition models, traditional recognition classifiers, and neural network‐based recognition classifiers using deep learning. The advantages and limitations of each scheme are discussed, along with their potential applications in various scenarios. The aim is to provide insights into the latest technologies in signal processing and pattern recognition for DAS, fostering further advancements in this field.
Optimising collection geometry for long‐range synthetic aperture sonar interferometry
Authors: Hansen Roy Edgar , Sæbø Torstein Olsmo
Published: June 2024

Interferometric synthetic aperture sonar (SAS) is a technique to image and map the seabed in very high resolution. For large area coverage rate systems with hundreds of metres swath width, the achievable performance varies significantly over the swath. The performance is a function of system, collection geometry, and seabed type. A model is suggested to optimise the collection geometry for maximising area coverage rate given certain optimisation criteria, such as observation geometry, signal‐to‐noise ratio, depth measurement accuracy, and coverage within swath. The model is fitted to measurements (or calibrated) through a simple procedure. Specifically, the effect of vehicle altitude during the interferometric SAS data collection is studied. A novel model on data collected by a HUGIN Superior autonomous underwater vehicle carrying a HISAS 1032 Dual Rx interferometric SAS is demonstrated. The authors show that optimising the collection geometry, and in this case specifically the vehicle altitude, significantly improves the overall performance.
Smart city fire surveillance: A deep state‐space model with intelligent agents
Authors: Rehman A. , Saeed F. , Rathore M. M. , Paul A. , Kang J.‐M.
Published: June 2024

In the realm of smart city development, the integration of intelligent agents has emerged as a pivotal strategy to enhance the efficacy of search methodologies. This study introduces a novel state‐space navigational model employing intelligent agents tailored specifically for fire surveillance in urban environments. Central to this model is the fusion of a convolutional neural network and multilayer perceptron, enabling accurate fire detection and localisation. Leveraging this capability, the intelligent agent proactively navigates through the search space, guided by the shortest path to the identified fire location. The utilisation of the A* algorithm as the search mechanism underscores the efficiency and efficacy of our proposed approach. Implemented in Python and Gephi, our method surpasses traditional search algorithms, both informed and uninformed, demonstrating its effectiveness in navigating urban landscapes for fire surveillance. This research study contributes significantly to the field by offering a robust solution for proactive fire detection and surveillance in smart city environments, thereby enhancing public safety and urban resilience.
Research on the online monitoring technique for transformer oil level based on ultrasonic sensors
Authors: Zhu Yongcan , Bing Kaiyang , Liu Dongyang , He Jiacheng , Shi Haonan , Huang Xinbo
Published: June 2024

In order to solve the problem of remote oil level measurement for unmanned transformers, this paper proposes an online monitoring technology for transformer oil level based on ultrasonic sensors. Subsequently, a finite element model and experimental testing platform were constructed to analyse and verify the influencing factors of the transformer oil level sensors. The results indicated that there is a lower measurement error at 140 kHz in the ultrasonic frequency range of 20–320 kHz, which can be selected as the recommended frequency. The impurities in the oil and the thickness of the tank wall have a slight impact on the accuracy of oil level measurement, and can lead to a decrease in the signal‐to‐noise ratio of the echo. Furthermore, as the speed of sound increases by about 4 m/s, for every 1°C increase in oil temperature, it is necessary to calibrate the measurement results based on the oil temperature. The test results of actual experimental transformers showed that the designed online monitoring device can achieve high‐precision monitoring of transformer oil level, with a relative error generally less than 3%.
Resultados da reconstrução do ligamento cruzado anterior em pacientes com lesão associada do ligamento anterolateral
Authors: Guerreiro João Paulo Fernandes , Rosa Larissa Baldow , Gonçalves Ellen Liceras , Curcio Amon Ramysés Rodrigues , Bignardi Paulo Roberto , Danieli Marcus Vinicius
Published: June 2024

Objetivo Avaliar se há diferença significativa nos resultados da reconstrução isolada do ligamento cruzado anterior (LCA) em pacientes com e sem lesão associada do ligamento anterolateral (LAL).

Métodos Foi realizado um estudo transversal retrospectivo com análise de prontuários e aplicação dos questionários da Escala de Pontuação do Joelho de Lysholm e do Formulário Subjetivo de Joelho do International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) a pacientes com reconstrução isolada do LCA.

Resultados Os 52 participantes incluídos foram separados em 2 grupos: 19 com lesão associada do LAL e 33 sem lesão associada. Nenhum paciente com lesão associada do LAL sofreu rerruptura do LCA, e 21,1% tiveram lesões em outras estruturas do joelho após a cirurgia. Entre os pacientes sem lesão associada, 6,1% sofreram rerruptura do LCA, e 18,2% tiveram lesões em outras estruturas após a cirurgia (p = 0,544). O retorno às atividades no mesmo nível do que no pré-operatório foi observado em 60% dos pacientes com lesão associada do LAL e em 72% daqueles sem lesão associada (p = 0,309). Na Escala de Pontuação do Joelho de Lysholm, os pacientes com lesão associada do LAL obtiveram média de 81,6 pontos, e os sem lesão associada, média de 90,1 pontos (p = 0,032). No Formulário Subjetivo de Joelho do IKDC, os pacientes com lesão associada do LAL obtiveram média de 70,3 pontos, e os sem lesão associada, média de 76,7 pontos (p = 0,112).

Conclusão Não foi observada diferença estatística significativa quanto a lesões do enxerto ou novas lesões de outras estruturas, satisfação com o joelho operado ou pontuação no Formulário Subjetivo de Joelho do IKDC. O retorno às atividades foi semelhante nos grupos com e sem lesão associada do LAL, e os resultados na Escala de Pontuação do Joelho de Lysholm foram melhores, com diferença estatística significativa no grupo sem lesão associada do LAL.
Resultados da abordagem cirúrgica da escoliose idiopática em adolescentes e qualidade de vida pós-operatória: Revisão sistemática de literatura
Authors: Oliveira Bianca Gabriella de , Moura Thiago Silva , Monte Guilherme de Brito Lira Dal , Souza Bruno dos Santos , Borduchi Leonardo da Costa , Silva Laís Cristina Pereira da
Published: June 2024

A escoliose idiopática do adolescente (EIA) é considerada a deformidade vertebral de maior gravidade e ocorrência, que acomete crianças e adolescentes ainda na fase de desenvolvimento neuropsicomotor, antes de atingirem a maturidade esquelética.

Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a abordagem cirúrgica da EIA, considerando resultados associados à redução de curvatura patológica, função pulmonar e repercussões na qualidade de vida dos adolescentes submetidos a tal tratamento.

Revisão Sistemática de literatura, com abordagem quanti-qualitativa dos dados coletados, cuja estruturação se deu conforme as orientações de Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) realizada nas bases de dados vinculadas à Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (MEDLINE) e Literatura Latino-Americana e do Caribe em Ciências da Saúde (LILACS). A amostra total dos estudos foi de 638 adolescentes com EIA, com uma idade média de 14,93 anos ± 1,24.

A correção média da curvatura patológica principal nos estudos foi de 55,06% ± 12,24. Em todos os estudos selecionados com fusão espinhal posterior para correção da EIA verificou-se redução significativa das curvaturas patológicas (> 49%), sendo que a reincidência de curvatura em nenhum dos estudos superou um ganho patológico superior a 5%. Quanto à função pulmonar, os estudos apontaram ganhos significativos de volume expiratório forçado em 1 segundo (VEF1) e capacidade vital forçada (CVF) em pacientes com EIA grave. Além disso, não foram relatados prejuízos de função pulmonar após intervenção cirúrgica para correção da EIA.
Análise dos procedimentos cirúrgicos no antebraço e na mão e sua relação com a síndrome da dor regional complexa: Um estudo transversal
Authors: Souza Caio Carvalho dos Santos , Casado Neto João Miguel , Bocchi Manoel Vítor Maciel , Grubert Danielle Horing
Published: June 2024

Objetivo A síndrome da dor regional complexa (SDRC) precisa ser mais bem compreendida. Assim, este estudo objetiva analisar se fatores pré e intraoperatórios poderiam estar relacionados ao desenvolvimento de SDRC no pós-operatório.

Métodos Foram revisados 1.183 prontuários de pacientes submetidos a cirurgias no antebraço e na mão entre 2015 e 2021. Os dados de interesse, como diagnóstico, incisões, material de síntese e anestesia realizada, foram coletados, tabulados e submetidos a testes estatísticos com posterior cálculo da razão de chances.

Resultados A maioria dos pacientes era do gênero feminino, com idade entre 30 e 59 anos, que buscaram o serviço de forma eletiva (67% dos casos). Os diagnósticos agrupados de forma geral foram: traumas de partes moles (43%), traumas ósseos (31,6%) e síndromes compressivas (25,5%). Durante esse período, 45 pacientes (3,8%) evoluíram com SDRC. A análise estatística mostrou que a chance de desenvolver SDRC é duas vezes maior em pacientes com síndrome compressiva, especialmente a síndrome do túnel do carpo (STC), que representou a maioria dos cirurgias realizadas em nosso serviço (24%). Em 7,6% dos casos, foram realizadas duas ou mais incisões, o que triplicou a possibilidade de SDRC pós-operatória. Gênero, idade, uso de material de síntese, ou tipo de anestesia não aumentaram estatisticamente o risco de SDRC no pós-operatório.

Conclusão Em suma, a incidência de SDRC é baixa, mas é importante conhecer e reconhecer os fatores de risco para a prevenção e a busca ativa no pós-operatório.
Epidemiologia das lesões e suas implicações em praticantes de jiu-jitsu: Uma revisão sistemática integrativa
Authors: Santos Sara Pereira , Soares Higor Henrique Pinheiro , Perez Neto Sebastião , Caseiro Filho Luis Carlos , Girasol Carlos Eduardo
Published: June 2024

Objetivo Investigar a epidemiologia dos tipos de lesões entre praticantes de jiu-jitsu e sua incidência em diferentes níveis de habilidade e experiência por meio da questão: “Quais as características e a prevalência das lesões musculoesqueléticas em praticantes de jiu-jitsu?”

Métodos Desde o início do estudo, em agosto de 2020, foram pesquisados os bancos de dados MEDLINE, LILACS e SciELO. Foram incluídos estudos transversais, publicados entre 2018 e 2023, que investigaram a epidemiologia dos tipos de lesões ocorridas entre praticantes de jiu-jitsu e compararam sua incidência em diferentes níveis de habilidade e experiência. Para tanto, dois pesquisadores independentes realizaram a extração dos dados e avaliaram o risco de viés.

Resultados Sete estudos foram incluídos. Os resultados comuns envolveram 2.847 praticantes de jiu-jitsu. Houve uma alta prevalência de lesão na articulação do joelho e nas áreas do tórax e das costelas. Considerando a diferença de nível de experiência entre os praticantes, pôde-se observar que a maioria dos indivíduos incluídos eram iniciantes. Entre as faixas etárias observadas, homens acima de 30 anos de idade foram os que mais apresentaram lesões musculoesqueléticas, principalmente durante os treinos.

Conclusão Houve uma alta prevalência de lesões musculoesqueléticas entre os praticantes de jiu-jitsu. Os segmentos anatômicos mais acometidos foram a articulação do joelho, o tórax e a região das costelas, seguidos da articulação do ombro. Os fatores relacionados mudaram de acordo com algumas variáveis, sendo mais comuns durante o treinamento em indivíduos do sexo masculino com mais de 30 anos e iniciantes na modalidade.
Estudo prospectivo da avaliação dos sintomas de ansiedade após descompressão lombar minimamente invasiva
Authors: Meves Roberto Maretti , Couri Pedro Cortat , Antonioli Eliane , Gotfryd Albert Ofenhejm
Published: June 2024

Objetivo Analisar associações entre ansiedade e desfecho clínico pós-cirúrgico em pacientes que realizaram a cirurgia de descompressão lombar minimamente invasiva, além de comparar sintomas de ansiedade e depressão antes e após a cirurgia.

Métodos Trata-se de um estudo de coorte prospectiva de pacientes que realizaram a cirurgia de descompressão lombar minimamente invasiva. Os desfechos clínicos foram mensurados antes e 6 meses após a cirurgia, utilizando a escala visual analógica de dor (EVA); Global Perceived Effect of Change (GPE); Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) e o Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). A partir do escore de ansiedade pré-cirúrgico, os pacientes foram categorizados em pacientes ansiosos e não ansiosos e os desfechos comparados.

Resultados Os pacientes de ambos os grupos obtiveram resultados similares em relação aos desfechos clínicos avaliados. Os escores HADS pré-operatório diminuíram significantemente 6 meses após a cirurgia, tanto em ansiedade (8,70 ± 3,48 vs. 5,75 ± 3,91) quanto em depressão (6,95 ± 3,54 vs. 5,50 ± 2,99). Houve redução da dor na escala EVA das costas (-2,8 ± 3,64) e das pernas (-5,5 ± 3,5).

Conclusão A cirurgia de descompressão lombar minimamente invasiva promoveu melhora clínica e funcional, não sendo afetada por sintomas pré-operatórios de ansiedade. Os indicadores de saúde mental evidenciaram redução significativa dos sintomas 6 meses após a cirurgia.
Anti-Müllerian Hormone: A Molecular Key to Unlocking Polycystic Ovary Syndrome?
Authors: Abbott David H. , Hutcherson Beverly A. , Dumesic Daniel A.
Published: June 2024

Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) is an important component within androgen receptor (AR)-regulated pathways governing the hyperandrogenic origin of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). In women with PCOS, granulosa cell AMH overexpression in developing ovarian follicles contributes to elevated circulating AMH levels beginning at birth and continuing in adolescent daughters of PCOS women. A 6 to 7% incidence among PCOS women of gene variants coding for AMH or its receptor, AMHR2, suggests genetic contributions to AMH-related pathogenesis. Discrete gestational AMH administration to pregnant mice induces hypergonadotropic hyperandrogenic, PCOS-like female offspring with high circulating AMH levels that persist over three generations, suggesting epigenetic contributions to PCOS through developmental programming. Moreover, adult-onset, selective hyperactivation of hypothalamic neurons expressing gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) induces hypergonadotropic hyperandrogenism and PCOS-like traits in female mice. Both gestational and adult AMH inductions of PCOS-like traits are prevented by GnRH antagonist coadministration, implicating luteinizing hormone–dependent ovarian theca cell testosterone (T) action, mediated through the AR in AMH-induced pathogenesis. Interestingly, gestational or peripubertal exogenous T or dihydrotestosterone induction of PCOS-like traits in female mice, rats, sheep, and monkeys fails to elicit ovarian AMH hypersecretion; thus, AMH excess per se may lead to a distinct pathogenic contribution to hyperandrogenic PCOS origins.
From the past to the present: the enduring impact of Hukum Kanun Pahang (Pahang Laws) in Malaysian society
Authors: Muslim Nazri , Mohamed Amaal Fadhlini , Arham Ahmad Firdhaus
Published: June 2024

The legal system known as Hukum Kanun Pahang, or Pahang Laws, was established during the reign of Sultan Abdul Ghafur Muhayiddin Syah (1592–1614), the 12th Sultan of Pahang. The enduring influence of the legal system on the Institution of the Malay Sultanate has had a profound and ongoing effect on the societal structure of Malaysian society. The enduring influence of the Pahang Laws on the Institutions of the Malay Sultanate serves as a testament to the significance of safeguarding cultural legacy and maintaining social cohesion, despite the challenges posed by colonialism and globalization. This study investigates the worldwide ramifications of Pahang Laws, which are inspired by Islamic Law, and analyses the extent to which this legal framework contributes to the implementation of justice within the Malaysian social system. This study illuminates the significance of the legal system in the Malay Sultanate, providing valuable insights that can serve as a reference point for the development of legal frameworks in other countries sharing similar demographics and cultures. Particularly, it has the potential to shape the socio-legal environment of Southeast Asia and beyond.
Human development and disaster mortality: evidence from India
Authors: Kaushik Rituparna , Parida Yashobanta , Naik Ravikiran
Published: June 2024

Natural disasters present substantial dangers to both human life and physical infrastructure. Although the human development index (HDI) is recognized for its pivotal role in mitigating mortality resulting from natural disasters, the exact extent of its impact on fatalities remains unclear. In this study, we investigate the relationship between HDI and fatalities resulting from floods and cyclones using panel data for 19 states of India spanning from 1983 to 2011. Employing Fixed Effects Poisson and Negative Binomial estimates, we establish a causal-effect relationship between HDI and disaster-related fatalities. Additionally, we utilize the Instrumental Variable Poisson (IV) model to address the endogeneity between HDI and fatalities. Our empirical findings indicate that states with higher HDI levels experience lower fatalities due to natural disasters. Furthermore, our results underscore the importance of critical policy discussions regarding the role of inequality-adjusted HDI, government responsiveness, and human capital development in disaster risk reduction strategies.
Choice of Device II: Strength of Reasons
Authors: Chan Cora
Published: June 2024

The chapter explores which device/combination of devices courts should use to give effect to the strength of the reason for deference. It compares the range and granularity of deference expressible by the six devices, arguing that the range and granularity expressible by the burden of proof are smaller/less than those expressible by other devices. The chapter argues that when deference is exercised at the definition and limitation stages in ways that lead to favourable outcomes for the primary decision-maker at those two stages, the degree of deference manifested at the three stages—defintion, limitation, remedy—is, as some have assumed, in decreasing order. The chapter then examines the combinability of devices. It defines the double counting of deference: double counting occurs when a court gives undue additional weight to a ground served by deference. Understood as such, deference using more than one device does not necessarily lead to double counting.
Conclusion
Authors: Chan Cora
Published: June 2024

This chapter first summarizes the book’s arguments. It then demonstrates how the four sets of techniques proposed in Chapter 6 can be put into practice by combining them into four models: the algorithmic model, stable model, elastic model, and amorphic model (in increasing order of flexibility). It illustrates how the four models can be applied using the case of Hong Kong. The chapter then draws a connection between the demands of internal logic and those of external constraints, presents examples of the empirical data needed to draw conclusive observations using the book’s ideas, and highlights several directions for future research.
Continued harmonization of the international normalized ratio across a large laboratory network: Evidence of sustained low interlaboratory variation and bias after a change in instrumentation
Authors: Favaloro Emmanuel J , Arunachalam Sandya , Chapman Kent , Pasalic Leonardo
Published: June 2024

Objectives

Our objective was to maintain low interlaboratory variation and bias in international normalized ratio (INR) results following a network change in instrumentation and reagents, using a process of ongoing standardization and harmonization.

Methods

Network-wide standardization to new common instrument and reagent platforms followed by network-wide application of a simple novel process of verification of international sensitive index and mean normal prothrombin time values for each new lot of prothrombin time (PT) reagent that does not require use of World Health Organization reference thromboplastin or INR calibration/certified plasma.

Results

The network transitioned from mechanical hemostasis detection instruments with associated PT reagent (Diagnostica Stago; NeoPTimal) to optical detection (ACL TOPs) with associated PT reagent (Werfen; RecombiPlasTin 2G). Comparing 3 years of data for each situation, the network (n = 27 laboratories) maintained low INR variability and bias relative to general mechanical and optical groups and other laboratories.

Conclusions

Harmonized support for patient management of vitamin K antagonists such as warfarin was continuously maintained in our geography, with potentially positive implications for other coagulation laboratories and geographies. For the United States in particular, paucity of US Food and Drug Administration–cleared INR certified plasmas potentially compromises INR test accuracy; our novel approach may provide workable alternatives for other laboratories/networks.
Long-term PM2.5 exposure and peak expiratory flow in middle-aged and older people in China: a quasi-experimental study
Authors: Ye Zirong , Li Xueru , Wu Yafei , Fang Ya
Published: June 2024

China’s Clean Air Act (CCAA) has been demonstrated to reduce the public health burden of ambient air pollution. Few studies have assessed the health effects of CCAA on lung function. We aimed to investigate the effects of CCAA and PM2.5 exposures on peak expiratory flow (PEF) in middle-aged and older people in China. Three waves (2011, 2013, and 2015) of the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) were included in this study. We performed a difference-in-difference (DID) model and mixed-effect method to assess the association between CCAA, PM2.5, and PEF. To increase the reliability, multiple environmental factors were considered, and spline function was utilized to fit the spatial autocorrelations. We found that the risk of decreased PEF in the policy intervention group was reduced by 46% (95% confidence interval [CI], 23% ~ 62%). The estimate showed a 10 μg/m3 increase in PM2.5 would increase the risk of decreased PEF by 10% (95% CI, 3% ~ 18%). The results of the mixed-effect model showed a 10 μg/m3 increase in PM2.5 concentration was associated with a 2.23% (95% CI, 1.35% ~ 3.06%) decrease in the PEF. These results contributed to the limited epidemiology evidence on demonstrating the effect of PM2.5 on lung function.

This article is part of a Special Collection on Environmental Epidemiology.
Three-dimensional image analysis specifies the root distribution for drought avoidance in the early growth stage of rice
Authors: Numajiri Yuko , Yoshida Saki , Hayashi Takeshi , Uga Yusaku
Published: June 2024

Background and Aims

Root system architecture (RSA) plays a key role in plant adaptation to drought, because deep rooting enables better water uptake than shallow rooting under terminal drought. Understanding RSA during early plant development is essential for improving crop yields, because early drought can affect subsequent shoot growth. Herein, we demonstrate that root distribution in the topsoil significantly impacts shoot growth during the early stages of rice (Oryza sativa) development under drought, as assessed through three-dimensional image analysis.

Methods

We used 109 F12 recombinant inbred lines obtained from a cross between shallow-rooting lowland rice and deep-rooting upland rice, representing a population with diverse RSA. We applied a moderate drought during the early development of rice grown in a plant pot (25 cm in height) by stopping irrigation 14 days after sowing. Time-series RSA at 14, 21 and 28 days after sowing was visualized by X-ray computed tomography and, subsequently, compared between drought and well-watered conditions. After this analysis, we investigated drought-avoidant RSA further by testing 20 randomly selected recombinant inbred lines in drought conditions.

Key Results

We inferred the root location that most influences shoot growth using a hierarchical Bayes approach: the root segment depth that impacted shoot growth positively ranged between 1.7 and 3.4 cm in drought conditions and between 0.0 and 1.7 cm in well-watered conditions. Drought-avoidant recombinant inbred lines had a higher root density in the lower layers of the topsoil compared with the others.

Conclusions

Fine classification of soil layers using three-dimensional image analysis revealed that increasing root density in the lower layers of the topsoil, rather than in the subsoil, is advantageous for drought avoidance during the early growth stage of rice.
Testing serial dependence or cross dependence for time series with underreporting
Authors: Wei Keyao , Wang Lengyang , Xia Yingcun
Published: June 2024

In practice, it is common for collected data to be underreported, an issue that is particularly prevalent in fields such as the social sciences, ecology and epidemiology. Drawing inferences from such data using conventional statistical methods can lead to incorrect conclusions. In this paper, we study tests for serial or cross dependence in time series data that are subject to underreporting. We introduce new test statistics, develop corresponding group-of-blocks bootstrap techniques and establish their consistency. The methods are shown via simulation studies to be efficient and are used to identify key factors responsible for the spread of dengue fever and the occurrence of cardiovascular disease.
Beyond fossil: the synthetic fuel surge for a green-energy resurgence
Authors: Janaki Sreejaun Thothaathiri , Madheswaran Dinesh Kumar , Naresh G , Praveenkumar Thangavelu
Published: June 2024

This review offers a comprehensive overview of synthetic fuels as promising alternatives to conventional fossil fuels. The carbon-neutral potential of synthetic fuels when produced using renewable energy and captured CO2, offering significant opportunities to mitigate CO2 emissions, is discussed. Moreover, the efficiency of synthetic fuels is presented, as they do not require dedicated agricultural land or substantial water resources, addressing concerns related to the land-use change and water scarcity associated with traditional biofuels. The economic viability of synthetic fuels is explored, highlighting the advancements in technology and decreased renewable-energy costs, coupled with their independence from food crops, mitigating concerns about potential impacts on food prices. Major investments by industry leaders such as Porsche, Highly Innovative Fuels Global, and ExxonMobil, totalling $1 billion, aimed at achieving an annual production of 550 million litres by 2026, are covered in detail. This study is further extended by emphasizing the scalability of synthetic fuel production through modular processes, enabling tailored facilities to meet regional demands and contribute to a decentralized and resilient energy infrastructure. Additionally, the ‘drop-in’ nature of synthetic fuels that are seamlessly compatible with existing fuel storage, pipelines, and pumps, facilitating a smooth transition without requiring extensive infrastructure changes, is highlighted. Challenges such as the current high cost of synthetic fuel production are acknowledged, necessitating supportive government policies and incentives for widespread adoption. Overall, synthetic fuels have emerged as promising contenders in the pursuit of sustainable and adaptable energy solutions, with tangible benefits for the environment, economy, and existing energy infrastructure.
Social acceptance and associated risks of geothermal energy development in East Africa: perspectives from geothermal energy developers
Authors: Mahamoud Abdi Abdek , Murayama Takehiko , Nishikizawa Shigeo , Suwanteep Kultip
Published: June 2024

Social acceptance is a challenging aspect that affects the development of geothermal energy and such issues have been reported in many countries, such as Germany, Japan, Greece, and Kenya. In this study, we discuss the barriers to social acceptance and associated risks faced by geothermal energy developers in East Africa. We have conducted semi-structured interviews with international organizations (38.5%), public companies (38.5%), and private companies (23.1%). The interviews were qualitatively analysed using inductive content analysis. The key barriers identified by respondents were the lack of political, market, and community awareness; lack of local political support; lack of public funding; human resource shortages; involuntary resettlement; local cultural aspects; employment issues; and demographic change. The lack of awareness of geothermal energy affects public and private funding, and leads to negative risk perception by communities. Risks, such as air, soil, and water pollution, land acquisition, social exclusion, resource risks, and drilling and project costs, were considered important by our respondents. In this study, we emphasize the need for the following: raising awareness regarding geothermal energy; training professionals; implementing strong surface studies to reduce the risks associated with the exploration stage; and conducting environmental and social impact assessment reports to mitigate negative risks to local communities, while also ensuring their engagement and raising their awareness about the negative risks of geothermal energy.
Association of Serum Trimethylamine-N-Oxide Concentration from Childhood to Early Adulthood with Age and Sex
Authors: Almer Gunter , Enko Dietmar , Kartiosuo Noora , Niinikoski Harri , Lehtimäki Terho , Munukka Eveliina , Viikari Jorma , Rönnemaa Tapani , Rovio Suvi P , Mykkänen Juha , Lagström Hanna , Jula Antti , Herrmann Markus , Raitakari Olli T , Meinitzer Andreas , Pahkala Katja
Published: June 2024

Background

Primary prevention is the cornerstone of cardiometabolic health. In the randomized, controlled Special Turku Coronary Risk Factor Intervention Project (STRIP), dietary counseling intervention was given to children from infancy to 20 years of age and a follow-up was completed at age 26 years. We investigated the associations of age, sex, gut microbiome, and dietary intervention with the gut metabolite and the cardiac biomarker trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO).

Methods

Overall, 592 healthy participants (females 46%) from STRIP were investigated. Compared to the control group, the intervention group had received dietary counseling between ages 7 months and 20 years focused on low intakes of saturated fat and cholesterol and the promotion of fruit, vegetable, and whole-grain consumption. TMAO serum concentrations were measured by a liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry method at ages 11, 13, 15, 17, 19, and 26 years. Microbiome composition was assessed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing at 26 years of age.

Results

TMAO concentrations increased from age 11 to 26 years in both sexes. At all measurement time points, males showed significantly higher serum TMAO concentrations compared to females, but concentrations were similar between the intervention and control groups. A direct association between TMAO concentrations and reported fiber intake was found in females. Gut microbiome analysis did not reveal associations with TMAO.

Conclusions

TMAO concentration increased from childhood to early adulthood but was not affected by the given dietary intervention. In females, TMAO concentrations could be directly associated with higher fiber intake suggesting sex-specific differences in TMAO metabolism.
Recommendations for Broadening Eligibility Criteria in Inflammatory Bowel Disease Clinical Trials
Authors: Siegel Corey A , Rai Victoria , Outtier An , Vermeire Severine , Law Cindy C W , Sands Bruce E , Abdulhamid Asim , Gearry Richard , McGuire Josh , Lindsay James O , Panaccione Remo , Schweistein Hagai , Dotan Iris , Scarallo Luca , Griffiths Anne , Dubinsky Marla C
Published: June 2024

Background

Clinical trial recruitment for patients with inflammatory bowel disease [IBD] has become more challenging over time. We aimed to develop recommendations for broadening IBD clinical trial eligibility, to improve the inclusion of a more representative patient population in a more efficient timeline.

Methods

We applied the RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method, focused on broadening IBD clinical trial eligibility. A literature review was performed for seven domains, each representing a different area related to trial recruitment. Based on these domains, 32 statements were developed. A questionnaire was sent to IBD specialists so as to anonymously vote on each statement with regards to its appropriateness and feasibility. After the first round of voting, participants met for a moderated discussion to review all statements. At the end of the discussion, a second round of anonymous voting led to the final recommendations.

Results

The final round of voting resulted in 26 statements. All were rated as feasible and 25 of 26 rated as appropriate. Recommendations generally are to be more inclusive of complicated disease phenotypes, more liberal around safety criteria, to recognise the importance of non-invasive imaging and biomarkers, to minimise the washout period and to not enforce a minimum or maximum number of prior medications, to allow a recently recorded colonoscopy to count as a baseline study, and to be less restrictive of age.

Conclusion

Recommendations to broaden clinical trial eligibility were found to be both appropriate and feasible, with a high degree of agreement amongst an international group of IBD specialists.
Non-invasive physiological assessment of intermediate coronary stenoses from plain angiography through artificial intelligence: the STARFLOW system
Authors: De Filippo Ovidio , Mineo Raffaele , Millesimo Michele , Wańha Wojciech , Proietto Salanitri Federica , Greco Antonio , Leone Antonio Maria , Franchin Luca , Palazzo Simone , Quadri Giorgio , Tuttolomondo Domenico , Fabris Enrico , Campo Gianluca , Giachet Alessandra Truffa , Bruno Francesco , Iannaccone Mario , Boccuzzi Giacomo , Gaibazzi Nicola , Varbella Ferdinando , Wojakowski Wojciech , Maremmani Michele , Gallone Guglielmo , Sinagra Gianfranco , Capodanno Davide , Musumeci Giuseppe , Boretto Paolo , Pawlus Pawel , Saglietto Andrea , Burzotta Francesco , Aldinucci Marco , Giordano Daniela , De Ferrari Gaetano Maria , Spampinato Concetto , D'Ascenzo Fabrizio
Published: June 2024

Background

Despite evidence supporting use of fractional flow reserve (FFR) and instantaneous waves-free ratio (iFR) to improve outcome of patients undergoing coronary angiography (CA) and percutaneous coronary intervention, such techniques are still underused in clinical practice due to economic and logistic issues.

Objectives

We aimed to develop an artificial intelligence (AI)-based application to compute FFR and iFR from plain CA.

Methods and results

Consecutive patients performing FFR or iFR or both were enrolled. A specific multi-task deep network exploiting 2 projections of the coronary of interest from standard CA was appraised. Accuracy of prediction of FFR/iFR of the AI model was the primary endpoint, along with sensitivity and specificity. Prediction was tested both for continuous values and for dichotomous classification (positive/negative) for FFR or iFR. Subgroup analyses were performed for FFR and iFR.

A total of 389 patients from 5 centers were enrolled. Mean age was 67.9 ± 9.6 and 39.2% of patients were admitted for acute coronary syndrome. Overall, the accuracy was 87.3% (81.2–93.4%), with a sensitivity of 82.4% (71.9–96.4%) and a specificity of 92.2% (90.4–93.9%). For FFR, accuracy was 84.8% (77.8–91.8%), with a sensitivity of 81.9% (69.4–94.4%) and a specificity of 87.7% (85.5–89.9%), while for iFR accuracy was 90.2% (86.0–94.6%), with a sensitivity of 87.2% (76.6–97.8%) and a specificity of 93.2% (91.7–94.7%, all confidence intervals 95%).

Conclusion

The presented machine-learning based tool showed high accuracy in prediction of wire-based FFR and iFR.
Support of the Description and Art. 84 EPC: Why Reactive Amendments to the Description Harm Legal Certainty
Authors: Baldus Oliver , Gebauer Dieter
Published: June 2024

In its granting procedures, the European Patent Office often requests that the patent description conforms to the claims granted. Amendments to the description are regularly motivated to comply with Art. 84 EPC, which requires support of the description.

Decisions T 1024/18 and T 1989/18 form two prominent polar opposites of narrow and wide interpretation of the description support criterion according to Art. 84 EPC. T 1024/18 argues that support of the description should not involve a reader being confronted with any information conflicting with the wording of the claims. This means that embodiments of the invention which are not consistent with the claims must therefore be deleted. In this context, additional information of a further non-covered embodiment is regarded as conflicting information. However, any of these reactive amendments can give rise to various legal problems that could even lead to a later revocation of the patent.

In contrast, the wide interpretation of T 1989/18 of the description support criterion does not require any post-grant amendments to the description and does not cause these legal problems.
The social lives of point-of-care tests in low- and middle-income countries: a meta-ethnography
Authors: Perkins Janet , Chandler Clare , Kelly Ann , Street Alice
Published: June 2024

Point-of-care tests (POCTs) have become technological solutions for many global health challenges. This meta-ethnography examines what has been learned about the ‘social lives’ of POCTs from in-depth qualitative research, highlighting key social considerations for policymakers, funders, developers and users in the design, development and deployment of POCTs. We screened qualitative research examining POCTs in low- and middle-income countries and selected 13 papers for synthesis. The findings illuminate five value-based logics—technological autonomy, care, scalability, rapidity and certainty—shaping global health innovation ecosystems and their entanglement with health systems. Our meta-ethnography suggests that POCTs never achieve the technological autonomy often anticipated during design and development processes. Instead, they are both embedded in and constitutive of the dynamic relationships that make up health systems in practice. POCTs are often imagined as caring commodities; however, in use, notions of care inscribed in these devices are constantly negotiated and transformed in relation to multiple understandings of care. POCTs promise to standardize care across scale, yet our analysis indicates nonstandard processes, diagnoses and treatment pathways as essential to ‘fluid technologies’ rather than dangerous aberrations. The rapidity of POCTs is constructed and negotiated within multiple distinct temporal registers, and POCTs operate as temporal objects that can either speed up or slow down experiences of diagnosis and innovation. Finally, while often valued as epistemic tools that can dispel diagnostic uncertainty, these papers demonstrate that POCTs contribute to new forms of uncertainty. Together, these papers point to knowledge practices as multiple, and POCTs as contributing to, rather than reducing, this multiplicity. The values embedded in POCTs are fluid and contested, with important implications for the kind of care these tools can deliver. These findings can contribute to more reflexive approaches to global health innovation, which take into account limitations of established global health logics, and recognize the socio-technical complexity of health systems.