bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Feasibility of Whole-Body Vibration Training as an Approach to Improve Health in Autistic Adults
Authors: Allnutt Amy , Pappa Sara , Nordvall Michael
Published: June 2024

Background: Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often lead sedentary lives, contributing to cardiovascular disease and muscular atrophy, requiring innovative therapeutic exercise approaches. Whole-body vibration (WBV) exercise training offers a unique option for those with limited motor control. This six-week pilot study aimed to assess the feasibility and effectiveness of WBV training in individuals with ASD. Methods: Six participants (age: 22.17 ± 2.14 years) underwent twice-weekly WBV sessions (10–24 min, 5–25 Hz). Cardiovascular biomarkers, including body composition, leg strength, blood pressure, waist/hip ratio, and body mass index (BMI), were measured. Qualitative outcomes on exercise tolerance, protocol completion, and perceived exertion were collected at each session. Data analyses, including measures of central tendencies and the Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test, evaluated the intervention’s effectiveness. Results: WBV training was safe and well-tolerated in adults with ASD. Despite no statistically significant improvements in cardiovascular and muscular strength indices, participants showed good adherence and tolerance to the protocol. Conclusion: Although WBV training had no significant impact on measured outcomes, it emerged as a feasible and well-tolerated exercise for individuals with ASD. It shows promise for addressing cardiovascular risk factors and reducing sedentary behaviors, suggesting the need for longer interventions to fully uncover its therapeutic potential.
A Hamilton–Jacobi Reachability-Based Minimum Separation Estimation of Integrated Manned and Unmanned Operation in Uncertain Environments
Authors: Wang Maolin , Lv Renli , Tai Shang
Published: June 2024

This work presents a minimum separation calculation for the integrated operation of manned and unmanned aerial vehicles in an uncertain airspace environment. Different from traditional path-planning-based research, this study investigated the minimum safe separation distance from a novel perspective of reachability analysis. The proposed computational method made use of the Hamilton–Jacobi partial differential equation (HJPDE) to obtain the backward reachable tube. Firstly, this work modeled the integrated operation in the UAS traffic management scenario, particularly focusing on the uncertainties. Then, a probabilistic reachability tube computation method was derived. Next, this work calculated the safe separation distances based on reachability analysis for three scenarios: a deterministic environment, an environment with relative position uncertainty, and an environment with relative heading angle uncertainty. By calculating the reachable tubes for a given response time, the worst-case minimum safe distances from the UAV’s perspective were determined, and the quantitative patterns were summarized. The results in this work indicate that, with an increase in the risk level and under the premise of a 1 s response time, the minimum safe separation increases from 26.7 m to 30.0 m. Finally, the paper discusses the results, explaining their rationality from both mathematical and physical perspectives.
Disaggregating Land Degradation Types for United Nations (UN) Land Degradation Neutrality (LDN) Analysis Using the State of Ohio (USA) as an Example
Authors: Mikhailova Elena A. , Zurqani Hamdi A. , Lin Lili , Hao Zhenbang , Post Christopher J. , Schlautman Mark A. , Brown Camryn E.
Published: June 2024

The United Nations (UN) Land Degradation Neutrality (LDN) evaluation stresses the need to account for different types of land degradation (LD) as part of the UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG 15: Life on Land) and UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD). For example, one of the indicators, 15.3.1 Proportion of land that is degraded over total land area, can be differentiated between different types of LD (e.g., urban development, agriculture, barren) when considering land use and land cover (LULC) change analysis. This study demonstrates that it is important to consider not only the overall anthropogenic LD status and trend over time, but also the type of LD to confirm LDN. This study’s innovation is that it leverages remote-sensing-based LULC change analysis to evaluate LDN by different types of LD using the state of Ohio (OH) as a case study. Almost 67% of land in OH experienced anthropogenic LD primarily due to agriculture (81%). All six soil orders were subject to various degrees of anthropogenic LD: Mollisols (88%), Alfisols (70%), Histosols (58%), Entisols (55%), Inceptisols (43%), and Ultisols (22%). All land developments in OH can be linked to damages from LD, with 10,116.3 km2 developed, resulting in midpoint losses of 1.4 × 1011 kg of total soil carbon (TSC) and a midpoint social cost of carbon dioxide emissions (SC-CO2) of $24B (where B = billion = 109, USD). Overall, the anthropogenic LD trend between 2001 and 2016 indicated LDN, however, during the same time, there was a six percent increase in developed area (577.6 km2), which represents a consumptive land conversion that likely caused the midpoint loss of 8.4 × 109 kg of TSC and a corresponding midpoint of $1.4B in SC-CO2. New developments occurred adjacent to current urban areas, near the capital city of Columbus, and other cities (e.g., Dayton, Cleveland). Developments negated OH’s overall LDN because of multiple types of damages: soil C loss, associated “realized” soil C social costs (SC-CO2), and loss of soil C sequestration potential. The state of OH has very limited potential land (1.2% of the total state area) for nature-based solutions (NBS) to compensate for the damages, which extend beyond the state’s boundaries because of the greenhouse gas emissions (GHG).
Integrated STEAM Education for Students’ Creativity Development
Authors: Filipe Josina , Baptista Mónica , Conceição Teresa
Published: June 2024

This study aims to explore how a learning sequence designed with an Integrated STEAM Education perspective (iSTEAM) contributes to students’ levels of creativity. The participants in this study were students from 9th and 10th grade with ages between 14 and 16 years old. Students were challenged to produce a soundtrack for an animation video. This was achieved by building artifacts and using the phenomena of physics under study (mechanical energy) to produce sound effects. These were later digitally recorded and assembled to build the video’s soundtrack. This research work contributes to addressing the importance of STEAM education integration and of digital competence in developing students’ creativity in problem solving.
Roma Youth’s Perspective on an Inclusive Higher Education Community: A Hungarian Case Study
Authors: Varga Aranka , Horváth Gergely , Trendl Fanni
Published: June 2024

While the expansion of higher education increases access to higher qualifications, students from disadvantaged backgrounds are at an increased risk of dropping out. Research shows that student progression is more successful in inclusive higher education environments. The study focuses on the promotion of opportunities for Roma in higher education, contributing to the international discourse on this issue. A Hungarian higher education organization supporting young Roma people and students of socially disadvantaged backgrounds is presented, relying on the experiences of young people who have been members of this community over the past twenty years. The question is whether and how the inclusive characteristics of the organization are reflected in the recollections of our interviewees (N = 50) about the student society. The narrative content analysis of the interviews shows that the former students’ entry into and time spent in the student society was embedded in a strong (peer and tutorial) social network, which framed and amplified the mentioned inclusive elements and forms of support of the organization. The inclusive approach and practices of the student society community played a key role in the mobility of Roma youth during their university years and beyond.
Effects of Transition from Remote to In-Person Learning in University Students: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Siteneski Aline , de la Cruz-Velez Melina , Montes-Escobar Karime , Duran-Ospina Julia Patricia , Fonseca-Restrepo Carolina , Barreiro-Linzán Mónica Daniela , Campos García Gusdanis Alberto , Gil-Mohapel Joana
Published: June 2024

Previous studies have shown that the transition from the University environment to remote learning impacted student mental health. Our study aimed to investigate the effects of university environment on anxiety and depressive symptoms in health sciences students. Students at the Technical University of Manabí, Ecuador, with 6–10 in-person semesters, who shifted to remote learning and then returned to face-to-face learning were selected. Students responded to the General Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) and Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). In addition, questions regarding social interaction, physical exercise, mood and sleep habits were also asked. This longitudinal study tracked 323 students during the return to in-person classes and term end. The results showed similar rates of anxiety (GAD-7, p = 0.011-p = 0.002) and depression (PHQ-9 p = 0.001-p = 0.032) among students at week 1 and week 15. Previous diagnosis of depression (OR, 0.171; CI 0.050–0.579, p < 0.005) was shown to correlate with depression levels in week 1, with no changes seen at follow-up. Anxiety levels were shown to be associated with a previous diagnosis of the disorder at week 1, but not at follow-up (OR 0.233; CI 0.085–0.643, p < 0.005). The return to in-person learning among university students maintained levels of anxiety and depressive symptoms, underscoring ongoing vulnerabilities to mental health disorders in this group.
Assessing the Prevalence of School Burnout in German High Schools: Psychometric Properties, Gender Differences, and Cut-Off Criteria
Authors: Schaefer Diana , Schuchardt Kirsten , Maehler Claudia
Published: June 2024

School-related stress and burnout can have serious consequences for students’ well-being and academic outcomes. However, there are few studies that assess the prevalence of school burnout, especially in Germany. The present study aims to determine the percentage of N = 1117 high school students who are likely to suffer from school burnout—also with regard to differences in gender and grade level. For this purpose, two different cut-off criteria are compared. Prior to this, the psychometric quality of the MBI-SuS adapted to the school context is examined. The validity and reliability of the three-factor MBI-SuS could be confirmed. Scalar measurement invariance was found for grade level but only partially for gender. The overall prevalence of school burnout of 20.9% found with the common cut-off criterion fits international prevalences, whereas the prevalence of 4.6% (determined with our recommended content-related cut-off criterion) is in line with observations from clinical practice. Depending on the cut-off value, girls suffer slightly more from school burnout, but no differences were found with respect to grade level. Results indicate that a substantial proportion of students are at risk for school burnout, highlighting the importance of prevention and intervention. Criteria for cut-off values should be applied with caution.
Battery Health State Prediction Based on Singular Spectrum Analysis and Transformer Network
Authors: Huang Chengti , Li Na , Zhu Jianqing , Shi Shengming
Published: June 2024

The failure of a battery may lead to a decline in the performance of electrical equipment, thus increasing the cost of use, so it is important to accurately evaluate the state of health (SOH) of the battery. Capacity degradation data for batteries are usually characterized by non-stationarity and non-linearity, which brings challenges for accurate prediction of battery health status. To tackle this problem, this paper proposes a battery prediction model based on singular spectrum analysis (SSA) and a transformer network. The model uses SSA to eliminate the effect of capacity regeneration, and a transformer network to automatically extract features from historical degraded data for the prediction. Specifically, the battery capacity sequence is used as the key index of performance degradation, which is decomposed by the SSA into trend components and periodic components. Then, the long-term dependence of capacity degradation is captured by the transformer network with a multi-head attention mechanism. Finally, two public lithium battery datasets were used to verify the validity of proposed model, and compared with mainstream models such as long-/short-term memory (LSTM) and convolutional neural networks (CNNs). The experimental results show that the proposed model has better prediction performance and extensive generalizability.
A Robust Pointer Meter Reading Recognition Method Based on TransUNet and Perspective Transformation Correction
Authors: Tan Liufan , Wu Wanneng , Ding Jinxin , Ye Weihao , Li Cheng , Liang Qiaokang
Published: June 2024

The automatic reading recognition of pointer meters plays a crucial role in data monitoring and analysis in intelligent substations. Existing meter reading methods struggle to address challenging difficulties such as image distortion and varying illumination. To enhance their robustness and accuracy, this study proposes a novel approach that leverages the TransUNet semantic segmentation model and a perspective transformation correction method. Initially, the dial of the pointer meter is localized from the natural background using YOLOv8. Subsequently, after enhancing the image with Gamma correction technology, the scale lines and the pointer within the dial are extracted using the TransUNet model. The distorted or rotated dial can then be corrected through perspective transformation. Finally, the meter readings are accurately obtained by the Weighted Angle Method (WAM). Ablative and comparative experiments on two self-collected datasets clearly verify the effectiveness of the proposed method, with a reading accuracy of 97.81% on Simple-MeterData and 93.39% on Complex-MeterData, respectively.
Mission-Conditioned Path Planning with Transformer Variational Autoencoder
Authors: Lee Kyoungho , Im Eunji , Cho Kyunghoon
Published: June 2024

This paper introduces a novel deep learning framework for robotic path planning that addresses two primary challenges: integrating mission specifications defined through Linear Temporal Logic (LTL) and enhancing trajectory quality via cost function integration within the configuration space. Our approach utilizes a Conditional Variational Autoencoder (CVAE) to efficiently encode optimal trajectory distributions, which are subsequently processed by a Transformer network. This network leverages mission-specific information from LTL formulas to generate control sequences, ensuring adherence to LTL specifications and the generation of near-optimal trajectories. Additionally, our framework incorporates an anchor control set—a curated collection of plausible control values. At each timestep, the proposed method selects and refines a control from this set, enabling precise adjustments to achieve desired outcomes. Comparative analysis and rigorous simulation testing demonstrate that our method outperforms both traditional sampling-based and other deep-learning-based path-planning techniques in terms of computational efficiency, trajectory optimality, and mission success rates.
SDP-MTF: A Composite Transfer Learning and Feature Fusion for Cross-Project Software Defect Prediction
Authors: Lei Tianwei , Xue Jingfeng , Man Duo , Wang Yong , Li Minghui , Kong Zixiao
Published: June 2024

Software defect prediction is critical for improving software quality and reducing maintenance costs. In recent years, Cross-Project software defect prediction has garnered significant attention from researchers. This approach leverages transfer learning to apply the knowledge from existing projects to new ones, thereby enhancing the universality of predictive models. It provides an effective solution for projects with limited historical defect data. Nevertheless, current methodologies face two main challenges: first, the inadequacy of feature information mining, where code statistical information or semantic information is used in isolation, ignoring the benefits of their integration; second, the substantial feature disparity between different projects, which can lead to insufficient effect during transfer learning, necessitating additional efforts to narrow this gap to improve precision. Addressing these challenges, this paper proposes a novel methodology, SDP-MTF (Software Defect Prediction using Multi-stage Transfer learning and Feature fusion), that combines code statistical features, deep semantic features, and multiple feature transfer learning methods to enhance the predictive effect. The SDP-MTF method was empirically tested on single-source cross-project software defect prediction across six projects from the PROMISE dataset, benchmarked against five baseline algorithms that employ distinct features and transfer methodologies. Our findings indicate that SDP-MTF significantly outperforms five classical baseline algorithms, improving the F1-Score by 8% to 15.2%, thereby substantively advancing the precision of cross-project software defect prediction.
Optimal Scheduling of Source–Load Synergy in Rural Integrated Energy Systems Considering Complementary Biogas–Wind–Solar Utilization
Authors: Long Xing , Liu Hongqi , Wu Tao , Ma Tongle
Published: June 2024

To address the issues of the low usage efficiency and illogical structure in rural regions, this study builds a rural integrated energy system (RIES) that incorporates the complementary use of biogas, wind, and light. For resolving the RIES optimum-low-carbon-economic-dispatch problem, a source–load-cooperative optimal-dispatch strategy is proposed. Firstly, a multi-energy integrated demand response (IDR) model based on time-of-use tariffs and time-varying biogas costs is established on the demand side. Secondly, power-to-gas devices are added on the supply side to optimize the system’s electricity–gas-coupling relationship and increase the wind power output space. Thirdly, an RIES-oriented carbon-trading model is constructed by considering the actual carbon emissions of gas loads and the stepped-carbon-trading mechanism. Finally, an optimal-dispatch model is built with the objective function of reducing the total energy cost, wind abandonment cost, IDR cost, and carbon emission cost, while the problem is transformed into a mixed-integer linear problem and solved using CPLEX 12.9. By setting up four scenarios for example analysis, the results show that on typical days in spring, summer, autumn, and winter, the total operating costs of the stepped-carbon-trading system (Scenario 1), taking into account the source-side power-to-gas (P2G) device and the load-side IDR, are reduced by 12.25%, 11.25%, 12.42%, and 11.56%, respectively, compared to the system without the introduction of the IDR (Scenario 3). In contrast to the system that lacks a P2G device at the source end (Scenario 2), the overall costs are decreased by 4.97%, 3.07%, 5.02%, and 5.36%, but the wind power consumption rates are increased by 11.63%, 7.93%, 11.54%, and 11.65%, respectively. Stepped emission trading (Scenario 1) reduces the total operating costs by 5.12%, 3.15%, 5.21%, and 6.84%, respectively, while reducing the biogas costs by 9.75%, 7.74%, 9.67%, and 9.57%, respectively, in comparison to traditional emission trading (Scenario 4). The example results demonstrate the economics, effectiveness, and reliability of a stepped-carbon-trading system with an integrated P2G load-side energy demand response.
Women Archaeologists’ Contributions to Uncovering the Pre- and Proto-Historical Occupation of Northern Portugal
Authors: Silva Fatima Matos , Sousa Goreti
Published: June 2024

The history of women archaeologists in Portugal and their contribution to the development of the discipline is yet to be studied. However, in recent years, some articles published in Portugal have contributed to the construction of this history. Some of these are from the year 2020, and although the coronavirus pandemic has affected the progress of these investigations, especially regarding fieldwork. Generally, these are quantitative studies based on the number of publications by women archaeologists and their references and interviews in newspapers. These articles, which require significant time for database analysis, have not yet explained the existing gaps. It is not the scope of this paper to pursue this quantitative scope; instead, it intends to conduct a qualitative analysis of the contribution of women archaeologists to the development of prehistoric studies in Northern Portugal. To achieve this goal, we are focusing on analysing the doctoral theses developed by women concerning pre- and proto-historic archaeology in Northern Portugal. With this evaluation, we intend to contribute to the history of Portuguese women’s archaeology and, at the same time, highlight their methodological and conceptual achievements.
Stress: Influences and Determinants of Psychopathology
Authors: Pereira-Figueiredo Inês , Umeoka Eduardo H. L.
Published: June 2024

The stress response is a natural physiological reaction of the organism, elicited to maintain the internal environment and evoke adaptive behaviors, ultimately leading to survival. However, at the turn of the century, stress-related disorders gained increasing significance. The aim of entry is to explore the fundamental question of when the stress system changes from a beneficial to a detrimental system, contributing to a higher risk of the development of disorders and/or diseases. To develop context, here, we explore the different concepts of stress and reveal the complexities, perspectives, and multiple relationships between the neurochemistry, cerebral functional network, and associated pathologies. According to the literature, the stress response affects nearly every biological system through the close interactions between the physiological, nervous, endocrine, and immune systems when faced with a real or perceived threat. Considering today’s challenging times, where people are facing multiple unavoidable adversities in their lives and a level of uncertainty never before seen, this review emphasizes the importance of understanding the potential consequences of being unable to cope with stressful events. Susceptibility and resilience to stress have gained recognition as important areas of study. The literature presented here enhances our understanding and identifies the causes of various psychopathologies, mental health conditions, disabilities, and even mortality that are closely linked to vulnerability to stress. Experimental studies from recent decades have demonstrated the many factors affecting our ability to cope with stress, including differences between individuals due to their genetic background, epigenetic regulation, gender, and early-life experiences. Finally, there is an urgent need to change the paradigm of modern lifestyles as a potential strategy to prevent the spread of the “health epidemic of the 21st century”, which is stress. Therefore, we acknowledge different approaches to enhance resilience, focusing on perception, tolerance, and positive lifestyle behaviors.
Microplastics and Fibrous Fragments Generated during the Production and Maintenance of Textiles
Authors: Militký Jiří , Novotná Jana , Wiener Jakub , Křemenáková Dana , Venkataraman Mohanapriya
Published: June 2024

More than a third of microplastics in surface waters are formed by microplastics released from textile products containing textile fibers (fibrous microplastics). A large amount of fibrous microplastics enters the environment during textile production and the first few washing cycles. Mechanical, thermal, chemical, and biological damage to textiles causes the generation of fibrous microplastics. Textile manufacturers, dyers and finishers, garment producers, distributors, or consumers contribute to this process. During the construction of textiles, multiple issues need to be addressed simultaneously. They are related to the optimization of technological processes and the construction and functionalization of fiber structures, considering ecological requirements, including suppressing the formation of fibrous microplastics. This research is focused on the specification of reasons for the generation of fibrous microplastics during textile production. The influence of the structure of fibers, abrasive deformations, and surface structure of fabrics on the generation of fibrous microplastics is discussed. The release of fibrous microplastics during washing is mentioned as well.
Novel Insights into the Effects of Different Cooking Methods on Salted Egg Yolks: Physicochemical and Sensory Analysis
Authors: Gao Xuejing , Zhang Mengya , Li Junhua , Gu Luping , Chang Cuihua , Huang Zijian , Yang Yanjun , Su Yujie
Published: June 2024

In this study, the flavor characteristics and physicochemical properties of salted egg yolk (SEY) under different cooking methods (steaming/baking/microwaving) were investigated. The microwave-treated SEY exhibited the highest levels of salt content, cooking loss, lightness, and b* value, as well as the highest content of flavor amino acids. A total of 31, 27, and 29 volatile compounds were detected after steaming, baking, and microwave treatments, respectively, covering 10 chemical families. The partial least squares discriminant analysis confirmed that 21 compounds, including octanol, pyrazine, 2-pentyl-furan, and 1-octen-3-ol, were the key volatile compounds affecting the classification of SEY aroma. The electronic nose revealed a sharp distinction in the overall flavor profile of SEY with varying heat treatments. However, no dramatic differences were observed in terms of fatty acid composition. Microwave treatment was identified as presenting a promising approach for enhancing the aroma profile of SEY. These findings contribute novel insights into flavor evaluation and the development of egg products as ingredients for thermal processing.
Insights into Food Perception and Consumer Behavior
Authors: Araújo Wilma Maria Coelho , Arruda Sandra Fernandes
Published: June 2024

This Special Issue contains ten articles discussing a range of topics including the role of food certification in food product choice, information highlighted on food labels, selection of “free from” products, sustainability aspects in food services, food security, and consumer understanding of the food classification proposed by the food groups in the Food-based Dietary Guidelines [...]
Lipid Composition-, Medium pH-, and Drug-Concentration-Dependent Membrane Interactions of Ibuprofen, Diclofenac, and Celecoxib: Hypothetical Association with Their Analgesic and Gastrointestinal Toxic Effects
Authors: Mizogami Maki , Tsuchiya Hironori
Published: June 2024

Among nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, ibuprofen, diclofenac, and celecoxib have been frequently used in multimodal analgesia. Recent studies challenge the conventional theory that they exhibit activity and toxicity by acting on cyclooxygenase selectively. We compared their membrane interactions that may be associated with analgesic and gastrointestinal toxic effects. Biomimetic membranes suspended in buffers of different pH were prepared with 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoylphosphatidylcholine, sphingomyelin, and cholesterol to mimic neuronal membranes and with 1,2-dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine to mimic gastrointestinal mucosae. The membrane interactivity was determined by measuring fluorescence polarization. At pH 7.4, the drugs interacted with neuro-mimetic membranes to decrease membrane fluidity at pharmacokinetically-relevant 0.5–100 μM. Celecoxib was most potent, followed by ibuprofen and diclofenac. At pH 4.0 and 2.5, however, the drugs increased the fluidity of 1,2-dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine membranes at 0.1–1 mM, corresponding to gastroduodenal lumen concentrations after administration. Their membrane fluidization was greater at gastric pH 2.5 than at duodenal pH 4.0. Low-micromolar ibuprofen, diclofenac, and celecoxib structure specifically decrease neuronal membrane fluidity, which hypothetically could affect signal transmission of nociceptive sensory neurons. Under gastroduodenal acidic conditions, high-micromolar ibuprofen, diclofenac, and celecoxib induce fluidity increases of membranous phosphatidylcholines that are hypothetically associated with gastrointestinal toxic effects, which would enhance acid permeability of protective mucosal membranes.
Regulation of Urate Homeostasis by Membrane Transporters
Authors: Takada Tappei , Miyata Hiroshi , Toyoda Yu , Nakayama Akiyoshi , Ichida Kimiyoshi , Matsuo Hirotaka
Published: June 2024

Uric acid is the final purine metabolite in humans. Serum urate levels are regulated by a balance between urate production, mainly in the liver, and its excretion via the kidneys and small intestine. Given that uric acid exists as a urate anion at physiological pH 7.4, membrane transporters are required to regulate urate homeostasis. In the kidney, urate transporter 1, glucose transporter 9, and organic anion transporter 10 contribute to urate reabsorption, whereas sodium-dependent phosphate transport protein 1 would be involved in urate excretion. Other transporters have been suggested to be involved in urate handling in the kidney; however, further evidence is required in humans. ATP-binding cassette transporter G2 (ABCG2) is another urate transporter, and its physiological role as a urate exporter is highly demonstrated in the intestine. In addition to urate, ABCG2 regulates the behavior of endogenous substances and drugs; therefore, the functional inhibition of ABCG2 has physiological and pharmacological effects. Although these transporters explain a large part of the urate regulation system, they are not sufficient for understanding the whole picture of urate homeostasis. Therefore, numerous studies have been conducted to find novel urate transporters. This review provides the latest evidence of urate transporters from pathophysiological and clinical pharmacological perspectives.
Unpacking Trastuzumab-Induced Cardiomyopathy: A Cardiac Conundrum
Authors: Peshin Supriya , Modi Shivani , Namburu Lalith , Rathod Malay
Published: June 2024

Cardiovascular diseases are a leading cause of mortality in the United States. The increasing number of cancer patients experiencing cardiovascular side effects from chemotherapeutic drugs is a cause for concern. Trastuzumab is a highly effective targeted therapy for HER2-positive cancers but its use is limited globally due to its cardiotoxic effects. The most severe adverse effect is cardiomyopathy, which is characterized by contractile dysfunction and reduced left ventricular systolic function. The electrophysiological side effects of trastuzumab are still not fully understood. Due to these life-threatening side effects, trastuzumab is routinely discontinued. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of trastuzumab-induced cardiomyopathy, including the mechanisms by which trastuzumab exerts its cardiotoxic effects, the clinical manifestations, diagnostic strategies, and potential interventions to protect the heart. By shedding light on the various aspects of this condition, we hope to emphasize the importance of early detection and effective management, as well as the urgent need for further research to optimize the balance between successful cancer treatment and cardiovascular well-being. Cardiologists, oncologists, and researchers are at the forefront of this critical intersection between oncology and cardiology, working collaboratively to enhance patient outcomes in the era of trastuzumab therapy.
Estimating Drainage from Forest Water Reclamation Facilities Based on Drain Gauge Measurements
Authors: Schwarzbach Madeline , Brooks Erin S. , Heinse Robert , Joshi Eureka , Coleman Mark D.
Published: June 2024

A growing human population requires sustainable solutions to regulate and dispose of municipal wastewater. Water treatment facilities in northern Idaho are permitted to apply reclaimed wastewater to forest land during the growing season at specified monthly hydraulic loading rates. We assessed the spatial and temporal variability of drainage below the rooting zone between non-irrigated (control) and irrigated (effluent) stands during the growing and dormant seasons in 2021. No drainage was observed during the two months of annual seasonal drought, but large magnitudes of drainage were recorded during the dormant season (38–94 cm), which was consistent with seasonal precipitation. The overall effect of effluent treatment on the drain gauge measurements did not differ from the controls, as effluent only increased the drainage at some facilities. The measured drainage averaged from 35 to 62 cm among facilities. We then used the drainage measurements to calibrate hydrological models (Hydrus-1D and Water Erosion Prediction Project [WEPP]) and predict the drainage in 50 measurement plots distributed evenly among five forest water reclamation facilities. As with the observed drainage, there were no statistically significant growing season differences in the predicted monthly drainage during the growing season between the effluent and control plots, suggesting the successful use of hydrologic models to support the measured drainage findings. While both models struggled to accurately predict the quantity of drainage during the dormant season, they both successfully predicted that drainage would continue through May. WEPP also successfully predicted that the treated plots began to drain in September and October following late-season irrigation at some facilities. The models showed that the prescribed crop coefficient used by the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality was adequate in avoiding drainage during the peak summer months.
Determination of Contaminant Transport Parameters for a Local Aquifer by Numerical Modeling of Two Plumes: Trichloroethylene and Hexavalent Chromium
Authors: Ibn Salam Mahade , Waldron Brian , Schoefernacker Scott , Jazaei Farhad
Published: June 2024

The municipal wellfield in Collierville, Tennessee, is contaminated with trichloroethylene (TCE) and hexavalent chromium (Cr (VI)) due to industrial operations dating back to the 1970s and 1980s. This study aims to elucidate the aquifer’s contaminant transport mechanisms by determining longitudinal and transverse dispersivities through inverse modeling. Utilizing MT3DMS for contaminant transport simulation, based on a well-calibrated groundwater flow model, and leveraging Python’s multiprocessing library for efficiency, the study employs a trial-and-error methodology. Key findings reveal that longitudinal dispersivity values range from 5.5 m near the source to 20.5 m further away, with horizontal and vertical transverse dispersivities between 0.28 m and 3.88 m and between 0.03 m and 0.08 m, respectively. These insights into the aquifer’s dispersivity coefficients, which reflect the scale-dependent nature of longitudinal dispersivity, are crucial for optimizing remediation strategies and achieving cleanup goals. This study underscores the importance of accurate parameter estimation in contaminant transport modeling and contributes to a better understanding of contaminant dynamics in the Collierville wellfield.
Current Practice in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Localized Gastric Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors
Authors: Lee Zachary , Mohanraj Divya , Sachs Abraham , Kambam Madhavi , DiBrito Sandra
Published: June 2024

Gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) are rare, neuroectodermal tumors primarily residing in the stomach with characteristic genetic mutations. They are often identified using ultrasound and cross-sectional imaging, or they are noted during endoscopy. Localized gastric GISTs are commonly treated with surgical resection, with the possible use of neoadjuvant or adjuvant medical therapies as they are considered to have malignant potential. The use of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) such as imatinib has been shown to successfully reduce pre-operative tumor burden, recurrence, and disease progression. Surgical resection considerations vary depending on tumor size, location, and malignant potential. Neoadjuvant and adjuvant TKI therapy dosing varies in response to the type of GIST mutation present and greatly influences prognosis. Novel cooperative minimally invasive surgical techniques and targeted therapies are currently in development to address challenges in GIST treatment for tumors in challenging locations or with significant potential for progression. The management of localized gastric GISTs continues to rapidly evolve; each case should be managed individually, where care is taken in considering details, including tumor location, tumor size, and the molecular genetic profile, before embarking on a course of treatment.
Predictive Study on the Occurrence of Wheat Blossom Midges Based on Gene Expression Programming with Support Vector Machines
Authors: Li Yin , Lv Yang , Guo Jian , Wang Yubo , Tian Youjin , Gao Hua , He Jinrong
Published: June 2024

This study addresses the challenges in plant pest and disease prediction within the context of smart agriculture, highlighting the need for efficient data processing techniques. In response to the limitations of existing models, which are characterized by slow training speeds and a low prediction accuracy, we introduce an innovative prediction method that integrates gene expression programming (GEP) with support vector machines (SVM). Our approach, the gene expression programming—support vector machine (GEP-SVM) model, begins with encoding and fitness function determination, progressing through cycles of selection, crossover, mutation, and the application of a convergence criterion. This method uniquely employs individual gene values as parameters for SVM, optimizing them through a grid search technique to refine genetic parameters. We tested this model using historical data on wheat blossom midges in Shaanxi Province, spanning from 1933 to 2010, and compared its performance against traditional methods, such as GEP, SVM, naive Bayes, K-nearest neighbor, and BP neural networks. Our findings reveal that the GEP-SVM model achieves a leading back-generation accuracy rate of 90.83%, demonstrating superior generalization and fitting capabilities. These results not only enhance the computational efficiency of pest and disease prediction in agriculture but also provide a scientific foundation for future predictive endeavors, contributing significantly to the optimization of agricultural production strategies.
Is Piezosurgery Associated with Improved Patient Outcomes Compared to Conventional Osteotomy in Rhinoplasty? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of RCTs
Authors: Safia Alaa , Abd Elhadi Uday , Farhat Raed , Elgrinawi Salman , Safieh Jawad , Bader Rawnk , Khater Ashraf , Merchavy Shlomo , Massoud Saqr
Published: June 2024

Background: Rhinoplasty is a common plastic surgery procedure with evolving surgical techniques. This systematic review and meta-analysis compares the outcomes of piezosurgery versus conventional osteotomy in rhinoplasty. Methods: A comprehensive search of six databases yielded 12 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing piezosurgery (292 cases) to conventional osteotomy (338 cases) in rhinoplasty patients. The examined outcomes included postoperative edema, ecchymosis, complications, pain (using the Visual Analogue Scale—VAS), and operative time. Subgroup analyses were conducted based on the assessment timepoint, surgical approach, and outcome grade. The risk of bias was evaluated using the revised Cochrane tool. Results: Piezosurgery showed a significant reduction in the degree of postoperative edema (second and seventh postoperative days) and ecchymosis (second, fourth, and seventh postoperative days). The external approach in piezosurgery demonstrated greater benefits for both outcomes. Piezosurgery was associated with a significant reduction in overall complications, especially mucosal injuries, compared to conventional osteotomy, with no significant difference regarding postoperative hemorrhage. A significant reduction in pain scores and the need for analgesia was observed with piezosurgery. No significant difference was found in operative time. Conclusions: Piezosurgery offers significant benefits in patient outcomes, with similar operative time between both techniques. However, long-term investigations are still needed.
Three-Year Outcome of Full-Arch Fixed Prosthetic Rehabilitation through the All-on-4® Concept Using Dynamic 3D Navigated Surgery (X-Guided™): A Retrospective Study
Authors: Lopes Armando , de Araújo Nobre Miguel , Vitor Inês
Published: June 2024

Background/Objectives: The insertion of dental implants using dynamic 3D navigated surgery while applying immediate function protocols for full-arch rehabilitations warrants further research. This study aimed to evaluate the outcomes of All-on-4® rehabilitations using 3D Dynamic navigated surgery (X-Guide™). Methods: This study included 10 patients (women: 7; men: 3; average age: 59.9 years) rehabilitated with full-arch prostheses through the All-on-4® concept, with 48 dental implants inserted using navigated surgery. The primary outcome evaluation was prosthetic/implant cumulative survival (CS), estimated using life tables. Secondary outcome evaluations were marginal bone resorption (MBR), biological complications, and mechanical complications. The evaluation parameters were measured between 1 and 3 years. Results: No patients were lost to follow-up. Two implants (4.2%) were lost in one patient (10%) with smoking habits, resulting in an implant CS rate of 95.8%. The average MBR was 0.51 mm ± 0.62 mm at the 1-year follow-up. The incidence rate of mechanical complications was 40% (n = 4 patients), all occurring in provisional prosthesis. No biological complications were registered. The patients maintained their prostheses in function throughout the follow-up of the study. Conclusions: Within the limitations of this study and based on the results, it can be concluded that the insertion of dental implants assisted by dynamic navigation for full-arch rehabilitation through the All-on-4® concept may be a valid treatment alternative in the short-term follow-up. However, more studies are necessary to validate this treatment modality.
The Cellular Stress and Cutaneous Manifestations in Renal Cell Carcinomas—A Narrative Review
Authors: Ene Corina Daniela , Nicolae Ilinca , Tampa Mircea , Georgescu Simona Roxana , Ene Cosmin , Matei Clara , Leulescu Iulia Maria Teodora , Mitran Cristina Iulia , Mitran Madalina Irina , Capusa Cristina
Published: June 2024

The carcinomas originating from the renal cortex are the most aggressive renal malignancies, with a high tendency for metastasis. Understanding the incidence of cutaneous manifestations caused by renal carcinomas is a challenge. In the first part, this article summarizes a series of factors that promote oncogenesis, invasiveness, and the ability of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) to develop secondary cutaneous manifestations. It is postulated that the cellular stress response is one of the leading causes of developing dermatological events induced by cancers located at distant sites. Furthermore, the paper provides an overview of cutaneous complications associated with renal cancer, categorized as malignant manifestations (metastases, synchronous or metachronous cutaneous malignancies associated with renal cancer), non-malignant indirect cutaneous manifestations associated with renal cancer, and treatment consequences. The data presented in this article suggest that recognizing certain cutaneous disorders could assist the physician in the early identification of renal neoplasms and could lead to a better prognosis.
Fat-Soluble Vitamins A, D, E, and K: Review of the Literature and Points of Interest for the Clinician
Authors: Andrès Emmanuel , Lorenzo-Villalba Noel , Terrade Jean-Edouard , Méndez-Bailon Manuel
Published: June 2024

Fat-soluble vitamins, including vitamins A, D, E, and K, are energy-free molecules that are essential to the body’s functioning and life. Their intake is almost exclusively exogenous, i.e., dietary. As a result, fat-soluble vitamin deficiencies are rarer in industrialized countries than in countries with limited resources. Certain groups of people are particularly affected, such as newborns or growing children, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and elderly or isolated individuals. Deficiencies in vitamins A, D, E, and K are also relatively frequent in subjects with digestive tract disorders, liver diseases, chronic pathologies, or in intensive care patients. Deficiencies or excesses of fat-soluble vitamins are responsible for a variety of more or less specific clinical pictures. Certain syndromes are typical of fat-soluble vitamin deficiency, such as the combination of ophthalmological and immunity impairments in the case of vitamin A deficiency or hemorrhagic syndrome and osteopenia in the case of vitamin E deficiency. This is also the case for osteomalacia, muscular weakness, even falls, and rickets in the case of vitamin D deficiency. Diagnosis of a deficiency in one of the fat-soluble vitamins relies on blood tests, which are not always essential for routine use. In this context, a therapeutic test may be proposed. Treatment of deficiencies requires vitamin supplementation, a well-balanced diet, and treatment of the cause.
Defining Age-Adjusted PI–LL Targets for Surgical Realignment in Adult Degenerative Scoliosis: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Zhang Haoran , Zhu Yuanpeng , Yin Xiangjie , Sun Dihan , Wang Shengru , Zhang Jianguo
Published: June 2024

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to investigate postoperative pelvic incidence minus lumbar lordosis mismatch (PI–LL) and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) outcomes to determine age-adjusted PI–LL targets. Method: The dataset encompassed a range of variables, including age, sex, body mass index, Charlson comorbidity index, presence of osteopenia, hospital stay, operative duration, blood loss, American Society of Anesthesiologists score, number of fusion levels, lumbar lordosis, sagittal vertical axis, pelvic incidence, and PI–LL. The non-linear relationship between PI–LL and clinical outcomes was examined using a curve analysis, with adjustments made for potential confounding variables. Upon identification of a non-linear relationship, a two-piecewise regression model was employed to determine the threshold effect. Results: A total of 280 patients were enrolled. In the fully adjusted model, the optimal PI–LL target for patients aged 45–54 years old was PI–LL < 10°, the optimal target for patients aged 55–74 was 10–20°, and the optimal target for patients older than 75 years was more suitable for PI–LL > 20°. In the curve-fitting graph, it could be seen that the relationship between PI–LL and HRQOL outcomes was not linear in each age group. The peaks of the curves within each group occurred at different locations. Higher and lower thresholds for optimal surgical goals were determined using the two-piecewise regression model from the SRS-22 score and the ODI score. Conclusions: This study showed that the optimal PI–LL after corrective surgery in adult degenerative scoliosis patients should be adjusted according to age.