bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multifractal Properties of Human Chromosome Sequences
Authors: Correia J. P. , Silva R. , Anselmo D. H. A. L. , Vasconcelos M. S. , da Silva L. R.
Published: May 2024

The intricacy and fractal properties of human DNA sequences are examined in this work. The core of this study is to discern whether complete DNA sequences present distinct complexity and fractal attributes compared with sequences containing exclusively exon regions. In this regard, the entire base pair sequences of DNA are extracted from the NCBI (National Center for Biotechnology Information) database. In order to create a time series representation for the base pair sequence {G,C,T,A}, we use the Chaos Game Representation (CGR) approach and a mapping rule f, which enables us to apply the metric known as the Complexity–Entropy Plane (CEP) and multifractal detrended fluctuation analysis (MF-DFA). To carry out our investigation, we divided human DNA into two groups: the first is composed of the 24 chromosomes, which comprises all the base pairs that form the DNA sequence, and another group that also includes the 24 chromosomes, but the DNA sequences rely only on the exons’ presence. The results show that both sets provide fractal patterns in their structure, as obtained by the CGR approach. Complete DNA sequences show a sharper visual fractal pattern than sequences composed only of exons. Moreover, the sequences occupy distinct areas of the complexity–entropy plane, and the complete DNA sequences lead to greater statistical complexity and lower entropy than the exon sequences. Also, we observed that different fractal parameters between chromosomes indicate diversity in genomic sequences. All these results occur in different scales for all chromosomes.
Traces in the History of Swedish Transnational Adoption—A Diffractive Mapping through the Voices of Adoptees and Their Parents
Authors: Bosseldal Ingrid
Published: May 2024

The initial Swedish discourse of transnational adoption as a win-win situation has changed over its more than 60-year-long history. This article aims to trace and present some themes in this history, with a particular focus on the public debate and the different narratives that representatives of the adoption triangle—the adoptees, the adoptive parents, and the biological parents—tell when dealing with transnational and transracial adoption as a personal and political phenomenon. The article draws from an ongoing study of discourses and narratives of transnational adoption based, above all, on journalism, memoirs, governmental documents, and previous research. It attempts to present the contradictory perspectives on transnational adoption to create a diffractive pattern. The diffractive analysis makes it possible to show how the investigated narratives and discourses on transnational adoption change in encounters with experiences made, and even more so, made visible and knowledgeable, in social practices.
An Evaluation of the Health Economics of Postnatal Depression Prevention and Treatment Strategies in China: A Cost-Effectiveness Analysis
Authors: Zheng Zhou , Feng Tianyu , Xu Jiaying , Zhang Xiaolin , Yu Xihe
Published: May 2024

Objective: The primary objectives of this study are to assess the cost-effectiveness of early postnatal screening and prenatal psychological interventions for the prevention and treatment of postpartum depression (PPD) among Chinese pregnant women. Additionally, we aim to explore the most cost-effective prevention and treatment strategies for PPD in China. Methods: We used TreeAge 2019 to construct a decision tree model, with the model assuming a simulated queue size of 10,000 people. The model employed Monte Carlo simulation to assess the cost-effectiveness of PPD prevention and treatment strategies. Transfer probabilities were derived from published studies and meta-analyses. Cost and effectiveness data were obtained from published sources and relevant studies. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) were used to describe the results, with willingness-to-pay (WTP) thresholds set at China’s gross domestic product (GDP) per capita. Results: Compared to the usual care group, the cost per additional quality-adjusted life year (QALY) for the early postnatal screening group and the prenatal psychological interventions is USD 6840.28 and USD 3720.74, respectively. The cure rate of mixed treatments for PPD has the greatest impact on the model, while patient participation in treatment has a minor impact on the cost-effectiveness of prevention and treatment strategies. Conclusion: Both early postnatal screening and prenatal psychological interventions are found to be highly cost-effective strategies for preventing and treating PPD in China. Prenatal psychological interventions for pregnant women are the most cost-effective prevention and treatment strategy. As such, from the perspective of national payers, we recommend that maternal screening for PPD be implemented in China to identify high-risk groups early on and to facilitate effective intervention.
Poly (I:C)-Induced microRNA-30b-5p Negatively Regulates the JAK/STAT Signaling Pathway to Mediate the Antiviral Immune Response in Silver Carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix) via Targeting CRFB5
Authors: Liu Meng , Tang Huan , Gao Kun , Zhang Xiqing , Ma Zhenhua , Jia Yunna , Yang Zihan , Inam Muhammad , Gao Yunhang , Wang Guiqin , Shan Xiaofeng
Published: May 2024

In aquaculture, viral diseases pose a significant threat and can lead to substantial economic losses. The primary defense against viral invasion is the innate immune system, with interferons (IFNs) playing a crucial role in mediating the immune response. With advancements in molecular biology, the role of non-coding RNA (ncRNA), particularly microRNAs (miRNAs), in gene expression has gained increasing attention. While the function of miRNAs in regulating the host immune response has been extensively studied, research on their immunomodulatory effects in teleost fish, including silver carp (Hyphthalmichthys molitrix), is limited. Therefore, this research aimed to investigate the immunomodulatory role of microRNA-30b-5p (miR-30b-5p) in the antiviral immune response of silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix) by targeting cytokine receptor family B5 (CRFB5) via the JAK/STAT signaling pathway. In this study, silver carp were stimulated with polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid (poly (I:C)), resulting in the identification of an up-regulated miRNA (miR-30b-5p). Through a dual luciferase assay, it was demonstrated that CRFB5, a receptor shared by fish type I interferon, is a novel target of miR-30b-5p. Furthermore, it was found that miR-30b-5p can suppress post-transcriptional CRFB5 expression. Importantly, this study revealed for the first time that miR-30b-5p negatively regulates the JAK/STAT signaling pathway, thereby mediating the antiviral immune response in silver carp by targeting CRFB5 and maintaining immune system stability. These findings not only contribute to the understanding of how miRNAs act as negative feedback regulators in teleost fish antiviral immunity but also suggest their potential therapeutic measures to prevent an excessive immune response.
Mechanistic Insights on Salicylic Acid-Induced Enhancement of Photosystem II Function in Basil Plants under Non-Stress or Mild Drought Stress
Authors: Sperdouli Ilektra , Panteris Emmanuel , Moustaka Julietta , Aydın Tuğba , Bayçu Gülriz , Moustakas Michael
Published: May 2024

Photosystem II (PSII) functions were investigated in basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) plants sprayed with 1 mM salicylic acid (SA) under non-stress (NS) or mild drought-stress (MiDS) conditions. Under MiDS, SA-sprayed leaves retained significantly higher (+36%) chlorophyll content compared to NS, SA-sprayed leaves. PSII efficiency in SA-sprayed leaves under NS conditions, evaluated at both low light (LL, 200 μmol photons m−2 s−1) and high light (HL, 900 μmol photons m−2 s−1), increased significantly with a parallel significant decrease in the excitation pressure at PSII (1-qL) and the excess excitation energy (EXC). This enhancement of PSII efficiency under NS conditions was induced by the mechanism of non-photochemical quenching (NPQ) that reduced singlet oxygen (1O2) production, as indicated by the reduced quantum yield of non-regulated energy loss in PSII (ΦNO). Under MiDS, the thylakoid structure of water-sprayed leaves appeared slightly dilated, and the efficiency of PSII declined, compared to NS conditions. In contrast, the thylakoid structure of SA-sprayed leaves did not change under MiDS, while PSII functionality was retained, similar to NS plants at HL. This was due to the photoprotective heat dissipation by NPQ, which was sufficient to retain the same percentage of open PSII reaction centers (qp), as in NS conditions and HL. We suggest that the redox status of the plastoquinone pool (qp) under MiDS and HL initiated the acclimation response to MiDS in SA-sprayed leaves, which retained the same electron transport rate (ETR) with control plants. Foliar spray of SA could be considered as a method to improve PSII efficiency in basil plants under NS conditions, at both LL and HL, while under MiDS and HL conditions, basil plants could retain PSII efficiency similar to control plants.
Exploring the Role of Debaryomyces hansenii as Biofertilizer in Iron-Deficient Environments to Enhance Plant Nutrition and Crop Production Sustainability
Authors: Sevillano-Caño Jesús , García María José , Córdoba-Galván Clara , Luque-Cruz Carmen , Agustí-Brisach Carlos , Lucena Carlos , Ramos José , Pérez-Vicente Rafael , Romera Francisco Javier
Published: May 2024

The European “Green Deal” policies are shifting toward more sustainable and environmentally conscious agricultural practices, reducing the use of chemical fertilizer and pesticides. This implies exploring alternative strategies. One promising alternative to improve plant nutrition and reinforce plant defenses is the use of beneficial microorganisms in the rhizosphere, such as “Plant-growth-promoting rhizobacteria and fungi”. Despite the great abundance of iron (Fe) in the Earth’s crust, its poor solubility in calcareous soil makes Fe deficiency a major agricultural issue worldwide. Among plant promoting microorganisms, the yeast Debaryomyces hansenii has been very recently incorporated, for its ability to induce morphological and physiological key responses to Fe deficiency in plants, under hydroponic culture conditions. The present work takes it a step further and explores the potential of D. hansenii to improve plant nutrition and stimulate growth in cucumber plants grown in calcareous soil, where ferric chlorosis is common. Additionally, the study examines D. hansenii’s ability to induce systemic resistance (ISR) through a comparative relative expression study by qRT-PCR of ethylene (ET) biosynthesis (ACO1), or ET signaling (EIN2 and EIN3), and salicylic acid (SA) biosynthesis (PAL)-related genes. The results mark a significant milestone since D. hansenii not only enhances nutrient uptake and stimulates plant growth and flower development but could also amplify induced systemic resistance (ISR). Although there is still much work ahead, these findings make D. hansenii a promising candidate to be used for sustainable and environmentally friendly integrated crop management.
Anti-HIV Humoral Response Induced by Different Anti-Idiotype Antibody Formats: An In Silico and In Vivo Approach
Authors: Caputo Valeria , Negri Ilaria , Moudoud Louiza , Libera Martina , Bonizzi Luigi , Clementi Massimo , Diotti Roberta Antonia
Published: May 2024

Despite advancements in vaccinology, there is currently no effective anti-HIV vaccine. One strategy under investigation is based on the identification of epitopes recognized by broadly neutralizing antibodies to include in vaccine preparation. Taking into account the benefits of anti-idiotype molecules and the diverse biological attributes of different antibody formats, our aim was to identify the most immunogenic antibody format. This format could serve as a foundational element for the development of an oligo-polyclonal anti-idiotype vaccine against HIV-1. For our investigation, we anchored our study on an established b12 anti-idiotype, referred to as P1, and proposed four distinct formats: two single chains and two minibodies, both in two different orientations. For a deeper characterization of these molecules, we used immunoinformatic tools and tested them on rabbits. Our studies have revealed that a particular minibody conformation, MbVHVL, emerges as the most promising candidate. It demonstrates a significant binding affinity with b12 and elicits a humoral anti-HIV-1 response in rabbits similar to the Fab format. This study marks the first instance where the minibody format has been shown to provoke a humoral response against a pathogen. Furthermore, this format presents biological advantages over the Fab format, including bivalency and being encoded by a monocistronic gene, making it better suited for the development of RNA-based vaccines.
Euonymus alatus Extract Reduces Insulin Resistance in db/db Mice by Regulating the PI3K–AKT Pathway
Authors: Lee Seoung-Uk. , Gurung Pallavi , Thapa Magar Til Bahadur , Lim Junmo , Shrestha Rajeev , Kim Yoon-Hee , Kim Yong-Wan
Published: May 2024

In accordance with the usage of Euonymus alatus (EA) as folk medicine in diabetes, the present study employed water and 70% ethanol twig extract to assess its antidiabetic effects in C57BL/KsJ-db/db mice. These effects were then compared with those observed in normal C57BL/6J Jms Slc mice. After 4 weeks of supplementation with 70% ethanolic EA extract or water EA extract by oral gavage at a dose of 500 mg/kg with distilled water (DW) per day, body weight was measured and compared with the diabetic group (Db). HPLC demonstrated that the maximum flavonoids were extracted in the Et.EA extract rather than in the water EA extract. The supplementation of the Et.EA extract significantly increased liver and muscle glycogen content with respect to the Db group. Additionally, the Et.EA extract modulated the expression of glycogen synthase (GS) in the liver and muscles of Db mice, indicating that it plays a promotive role in glycogen synthesis. Mechanistically, Et.EA extract activates insulin receptor substrate (IRS1/IRS2)/phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT) in the liver and muscles of Db mice. In conclusion, Et.EA extract attenuates insulin resistance by regulating the expression of metabolic enzymes and signaling pathways.
A First Approach to Quantum Logical Shape Classification Framework
Authors: Köhler Alexander , Kahra Marvin , Breuß Michael
Published: May 2024

Quantum logic is a well-structured theory, which has recently received some attention because of its fundamental relation to quantum computing. However, the complex foundation of quantum logic borrowing concepts from different branches of mathematics as well as its peculiar settings have made it a non-trivial task to devise suitable applications. This article aims to propose for the first time an approach using quantum logic in image processing for shape classification. We show how to make use of the principal component analysis to realize quantum logical propositions. In this way, we are able to assign a concrete meaning to the rather abstract quantum logical concepts, and we are able to compute a probability measure from the principal components. For shape classification, we consider encrypting given point clouds of different objects by making use of specific distance histograms. This enables us to initiate the principal component analysis. Through experiments, we explore the possibility of distinguishing between different geometrical objects and discuss the results in terms of quantum logical interpretation.
Interlaboratory Comparison of Power Measurements at Millimetre- and Sub-Millimetre-Wave Frequencies
Authors: Celep Murat , Stokes Daniel , Danacı Erkan , Ziadé François , Zagrajek Przemysław , Wojciechowski Marcin , Phung Gia Ngoc , Kuhlmann Karsten , Kazemipour Alireza , Durant Steven , Hesler Jeffrey , Instone Ian , Sakarya Handan , Allal Djamel , Rühaak Jürgen , Skinner James , Stalder Daniel
Published: May 2024

The aim of this paper is to compare the power measurement capabilities in millimetre- and sub-millimetre-wave frequency bands of several national metrology institutes and one research institute. The first comparison, in WR-6.5 waveguide (110 GHz to 170 GHz), involved NPL, TUBITAK UME and PTB. The second comparison, in WR-1.5 waveguide (500 GHz to 750 GHz), involved NPL, METAS, TUBITAK UME, LNE, WAT, GUM and VDI. Two types of travelling standards were used for these comparisons: a thermoelectric power sensor in the WR-6.5 band and a calorimetric power sensor in the WR-6.5 and WR-1.5 bands. The thermoelectric power sensor was characterised by the participants against their own standards and a generalised effective efficiency was calculated. The calorimetric power sensor operating in the WR-6.5 band was measured to observe its behaviour during the comparison and was also measured in the WR-1.5 band after being fitted with a suitable waveguide taper and used in conjunction with a frequency multiplier. The participants measured the output of the calorimetric power sensor and their own power sensor standard. A normalised power ratio method was used as a comparison parameter for the WR-1.5 band measurements. In addition, a pyroelectric power standard was used by METAS to measure absolute power, and a frequency of 650 GHz was used as a link between the absolute power and the power ratios. Finally, all but two of the measurement points compared between the participants achieved agreement in terms of En scores less than 1. For the first time, an interlaboratory comparison of power measurements at sub-millimetre frequencies has been performed and, overall, good agreement was achieved between the different laboratories.
Enhanced Measurement and Verification Practices in Deep-Level Mines: The Current State
Authors: Matthee Frans J. L. , Marais Johan H. , van Laar Jean H.
Published: May 2024

This article explores operational challenges in mining, with a focus on energy management amid depleting ore grades and rising costs. The urgent need for innovative energy management systems and strategies is highlighted by analyzing the unexplored landscape of mine energy budgeting and forecasting and identifying gaps in current practices. Drawing from the literature, this paper offers new insights into energy budgeting and the evaluation of energy efficiency initiatives by integrating traditional and advanced measurement and verification (M&V) techniques. M&V practices are crucial for energy management, particularly in deep-level mines, with a focus on practical knowledge and advanced methodologies. Key findings from this study show that integrating advanced M&V techniques with unplanned events is crucial to improve the financial management of mines. By leveraging these key findings, this article proposes a roadmap of the next seven milestones needed in advanced M&V research to aid effective energy management in a mining environment. If executed successfully, a practical method for applying advanced M&V processes to deep-level mining operations can be constructed. Such a generic method will enhance mining companies’ energy efficiency initiatives and improve financial management practices on a global scale.
Measuring Things That Measure You: Complex Epistemological Practices in Science Applied to the Martial Arts
Authors: Agoff Zachary , Keyser Vadim , Gwerder Benjamin
Published: May 2024

We argue that an epistemology of martial arts is at least as complex as advanced epistemological positions available to the philosophy of science. Part of the complexity is a product of the epistemic relation between the knower and known, or the scientist and the object of inquiry. In science, we measure things without changing them and, sometimes, complex systems can change as we measure them; but, in the epistemology of sport that we are interested in, each measurer is also an object of inquiry. As such, each martial arts practitioner has to use various epistemic tools to measure a responsive system. We proceed in three steps. First, we discuss three epistemological frameworks in the philosophy of science—perspectivism, productivism, and distributed cognition. Second, we develop an epistemology of martial arts that features components from each of those epistemic frameworks. Third, we close the paper with a brief discussion about the unique complexity available to the martial artist, focusing on the responsive measurements that occur between two systems.
Abraham’s Faith: Both the Aesthetic and the Ethical in Fear and Trembling
Authors: Westfall Joseph
Published: May 2024

In this paper, I examine Johannes de Silentio’s presentation of the faith of Abraham, deriving therefrom a new way of conceiving his notion of faith as a paradoxical co-inhabiting of both the aesthetic and the ethical stages, rather than as a rejection, synthesis, or overcoming of them. Relying largely upon Silentio’s account of Abraham’s faith as anxious but not doubting, I argue that the interpretations of Fear and Trembling by Alastair Hannay and Mark C. Taylor fail to account for some essential aspects of Silentio’s depiction. I conclude that faith, as it is described in Fear and Trembling, cannot be philosophically understood as it is not an object for thought but an existential perspective one lives.
Simulation Dosimetry Studies for FLASH Radiation Therapy (RT) with Ultra-High Dose Rate (UHDR) Electron Beam
Authors: Gazis Nick , Bignami Andrea , Trachanas Emmanouil , Moniaki Melina , Gazis Evangelos , Bandekas Dimitrios , Vordos Nikolaos
Published: May 2024

FLASH-radiotherapy (RT) presents great potential as an alternative to conventional radiotherapy methods in cancer treatment. In this paper, we focus on simulation studies for a linear particle accelerator injector design using the ASTRA code, which permits beam generation and particle tracking through electromagnetic fields. Space charge-dominated beams were selected with the aim of providing an optimized generated beam profile and accelerator lattice with minimized emittance. The main results of the electron beam and ultra-high dose rate (UHDR) simulation dosimetry studies are reported for the FLASH mode radiobiological treatment. Results for the percentage depth dose (PDD) at electron beam energies of 5, 7, 15, 25, 50, 100 MeV and 1.2 GeV for Poly-methyl-methacrylate (PMMA) and water phantom vs. the penetration depth are presented. Additionally, the PDD transverse profile was simulated for the above energies, delivering the beam to the phantom. The simulation dosimetry results provide an UHDR electron beam under the conditions of the FLASH-RT. The performance of the beam inside the phantom and the dose depth depends on the linear accelerator beam’s energy and stability.
Detection Method of Epileptic Seizures Using a Neural Network Model Based on Multimodal Dual-Stream Networks
Authors: Wang Baiyang , Xu Yidong , Peng Siyu , Wang Hongjun , Li Fang
Published: May 2024

Epilepsy is a common neurological disorder, and its diagnosis mainly relies on the analysis of electroencephalogram (EEG) signals. However, the raw EEG signals contain limited recognizable features, and in order to increase the recognizable features in the input of the network, the differential features of the signals, the amplitude spectrum and the phase spectrum in the frequency domain are extracted to form a two-dimensional feature vector. In order to solve the problem of recognizing multimodal features, a neural network model based on a multimodal dual-stream network is proposed, which uses a mixture of one-dimensional convolution, two-dimensional convolution and LSTM neural networks to extract the spatial features of the EEG two-dimensional vectors and the temporal features of the signals, respectively, and combines the advantages of the two networks, using the hybrid neural network to extract both the temporal and spatial features of the signals at the same time. In addition, a channel attention module was used to focus the model on features related to seizures. Finally, multiple sets of experiments were conducted on the Bonn and New Delhi data sets, and the highest accuracy rates of 99.69% and 97.5% were obtained on the test set, respectively, verifying the superiority of the proposed model in the task of epileptic seizure detection.
Simultaneous Determination of Four Catechins in Black Tea via NIR Spectroscopy and Feature Wavelength Selection: A Novel Approach
Authors: Liu Yabing , Pan Ke , Liu Zhongyin , Dai Yuqiao , Duan Xueyi , Wang Min , Shen Qiang
Published: May 2024

As a non-destructive, fast, and cost-effective technique, near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy has been widely used to determine the content of bioactive components in tea. However, due to the similar chemical structures of various catechins in black tea, the NIR spectra of black tea severely overlap in certain bands, causing nonlinear relationships and reducing analytical accuracy. In addition, the number of NIR spectral wavelengths is much larger than that of the modeled samples, and the small-sample learning problem is rather typical. These issues make the use of NIRS to simultaneously determine black tea catechins challenging. To address the above problems, this study innovatively proposed a wavelength selection algorithm based on feature interval combination sensitivity segmentation (FIC-SS). This algorithm extracts wavelengths at both coarse-grained and fine-grained levels, achieving higher accuracy and stability in feature wavelength extraction. On this basis, the study built four simultaneous prediction models for catechins based on extreme learning machines (ELMs), utilizing their powerful nonlinear learning ability and simple model structure to achieve simultaneous and accurate prediction of catechins. The experimental results showed that for the full spectrum, the ELM model has better prediction performance than the partial least squares model for epicatechin (EC), epicatechin gallate (ECG), epigallocatechin (EGC), and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). For the feature wavelengths, our proposed FIC-SS-ELM model enjoys higher prediction performance than ELM models based on other wavelength selection algorithms; it can simultaneously and accurately predict the content of EC (Rp2 = 0.91, RMSEP = 0.019), ECG (Rp2 = 0.96, RMSEP = 0.11), EGC (Rp2 = 0.97, RMSEP = 0.15), and EGCG (Rp2 = 0.97, RMSEP = 0.35) in black tea. The results of this study provide a new method for the quantitative determination of the bioactive components of black tea.
A Multi-Aperture Technique for Longitudinal Miniaturization of UWB 3 dB Dual-Layer SIW Coupler
Authors: Bilal Ahmad , Hadee Abdul , Shah Yash H. , Bhattacharjee Sohom , Cho Choon Sik
Published: May 2024

Microwave couplers are used in large numbers in beamforming networks, and their miniaturization can lead to a significant size reduction in the overall phased array. While the miniaturization of 3 dB couplers in the transverse direction (width) has been given considerable attention in the literature, there is minimal to no information on reducing coupler length. This is because of the trade-off between aperture length, bandwidth and coupling strength. The Bethe–Hole theory requires adding multiple apertures in the longitudinal direction for wide bandwidth, thus increasing the device length. Another factor is the aperture size, which determines the coupling strength and puts additional strain on the compactness of a 3 dB coupler. Contrariwise, this paper proposes to merge two weak (and hence compact) coupling mechanisms to design a wideband 3 dB coupler. This is achieved by using a longitudinal rectangular slot and three cross-slots in the transverse direction. Because of weak coupling, the slot sizes are smaller than a conventional 3 dB coupler, hence yielding a device whose length is less than one guided wavelength (λg) without compromising the bandwidth. The presented coupler is 0.63 λg in length, which is smaller than the state-of-the-art while maintaining a fractional bandwidth of 37% that is comparable to half-mode substrate integrated waveguide (HMSIW) couplers.
The Agreement between Wearable Sensors and Force Plates for the Analysis of Stride Time Variability
Authors: Slattery Patrick , Cofré Lizama L. Eduardo , Wheat Jon , Gastin Paul , Dascombe Ben , Middleton Kane
Published: May 2024

The variability and regularity of stride time may help identify individuals at a greater risk of injury during military load carriage. Wearable sensors could provide a cost-effective, portable solution for recording these measures, but establishing their validity is necessary. This study aimed to determine the agreement of several measures of stride time variability across five wearable sensors (Opal APDM, Vicon Blue Trident, Axivity, Plantiga, Xsens DOT) and force plates during military load carriage. Nineteen Australian Army trainee soldiers (age: 24.8 ± 5.3 years, height: 1.77 ± 0.09 m, body mass: 79.5 ± 15.2 kg, service: 1.7 ± 1.7 years) completed three 12-min walking trials on an instrumented treadmill at 5.5 km/h, carrying 23 kg of an external load. Simultaneously, 512 stride time intervals were identified from treadmill-embedded force plates and each sensor where linear (standard deviation and coefficient of variation) and non-linear (detrended fluctuation analysis and sample entropy) measures were obtained. Sensor and force plate agreement was evaluated using Pearson’s r and intraclass correlation coefficients. All sensors had at least moderate agreement (ICC > 0.5) and a strong positive correlation (r > 0.5). These results suggest wearable devices could be employed to quantify linear and non-linear measures of stride time variability during military load carriage.
Shape Sensing and Kinematic Control of a Cable-Driven Continuum Robot Based on Stretchable Capacitive Sensors
Authors: Shen Wenjun , He Jianhui , Yang Guilin , Kong Xiangjie , Bai Haotian , Fang Zaojun
Published: May 2024

A Cable-Driven Continuum Robot (CDCR) that consists of a set of identical Cable-Driven Continuum Joint Modules (CDCJMs) is proposed in this paper. The CDCJMs merely produce 2-DOF bending motions by controlling driving cable lengths. In each CDCJM, a pattern-based flexible backbone is employed as a passive compliant joint to generate 2-DOF bending deflections, which can be characterized by two joint variables, i.e., the bending direction angle and the bending angle. However, as the bending deflection is determined by not only the lengths of the driving cables but also the gravity and payload, it will be inaccurate to compute the two joint variables with its kinematic model. In this work, two stretchable capacitive sensors are employed to measure the bending shape of the flexible backbone so as to accurately determine the two joint variables. Compared with FBG-based and vision-based shape-sensing methods, the proposed method with stretchable capacitive sensors has the advantages of high sensitivity to the bending deflection of the backbone, ease of implementation, and cost effectiveness. The initial location of a stretchable sensor is generally defined by its two endpoint positions on the surface of the backbone without bending. A generic shape-sensing model, i.e., the relationship between the sensor reading and the two joint variables, is formulated based on the 2-DOF bending deflection of the backbone. To further improve the accuracy of the shape-sensing model, a calibration method is proposed to compensate for the location errors of stretchable sensors. Based on the calibrated shape-sensing model, a sliding-mode-based closed-loop control method is implemented for the CDCR. In order to verify the effectiveness of the proposed closed-loop control method, the trajectory tracking accuracy experiments of the CDCR are conducted based on a circle trajectory, in which the radius of the circle is 55mm. The average tracking errors of the CDCR measured by the Qualisys motion capture system under the open-loop and the closed-loop control are 49.23 and 8.40mm, respectively, which is reduced by 82.94%.
Accessibility of Motion Capture as a Tool for Sports Performance Enhancement for Beginner and Intermediate Cricket Players
Authors: Maduwantha Kaveendra , Jayaweerage Ishan , Kumarasinghe Chamara , Lakpriya Nimesh , Madushan Thilina , Tharanga Dasun , Wijethunga Mahela , Induranga Ashan , Gunawardana Niroshan , Weerakkody Pathum , Koswattage Kaveenga
Published: May 2024

Motion Capture (MoCap) has become an integral tool in fields such as sports, medicine, and the entertainment industry. The cost of deploying high-end equipment and the lack of expertise and knowledge limit the usage of MoCap from its full potential, especially at beginner and intermediate levels of sports coaching. The challenges faced while developing affordable MoCap systems for such levels have been discussed in order to initiate an easily accessible system with minimal resources.
Secrecy Performance Enhancement Using Self-Interference Cancellation in Wireless Mutual Broadcast Networks for Proximity-Based Services
Authors: Kwon Taesoo , LEE HyeonWoo
Published: May 2024

With the increasing demand for data exchange between nearby devices in proximity-based services, enhancing the security of wireless mutual broadcast (WMB) networks is crucial. However, WMB networks are inherently vulnerable to eavesdropping due to the open broadcast nature of their communication. This paper investigates the improvement of secrecy performance in random-access-based WMB (RA-WMB) networks by integrating physical layer security (PLS) techniques with hybrid duplex (HBD) operations under a stochastic geometry framework. The HBD method balances half-duplex (HD) receiving and full-duplex (FD) transceiving, utilizing self-interference cancellation (SIC) to enhance PLS performance. Key operational parameters, including transmission probability (TxPr), friendly jammer density, and conditions for FD operation, are designed to maximize secrecy performance. The analytical and numerical results demonstrate significant improvements in PLS performance, with SIC playing a critical role, particularly in scenarios with dense legitimate nodes, and with TxPr adjusted to balance HD receiving and FD transceiving based on SIC imperfections. The proposed design principles provide a comprehensive framework for enhancing the security of WMB networks, addressing the complex interplay of interference and SIC in various network configurations.
Live Intersection Data Acquisition for Traffic Simulators (LIDATS)
Authors: Renninger Andrew , Ameen Noman Sinan , Atkison Travis , Sussman Jonah
Published: May 2024

Real-time traffic signal acquisition and network transmission are essential components of intelligent transportation systems, facilitating real-time traffic monitoring, management, and analysis in urban environments. In this paper, we introduce a comprehensive system that incorporates live traffic signal acquisition, real-time data processing, and secure network transmission through a combination of hardware and software modules, called LIDATS. LIDATS stands for Live Intersection Data Acquisition for Traffic Simulators. The design and implementation of our system are detailed, encompassing signal acquisition hardware as well as a software platform that is used specifically for real-time data processing. The performance evaluation of our system was conducted by simulation in the lab, demonstrating its capability to reliably capture and transmit data in real time, and to effectively extract the relevant information from noisy and complex traffic data. Supporting a variety of intelligent transportation applications, such as real-time traffic flow management, intelligent traffic signal control, and predictive traffic analysis, our system enables remote data analysis and decisionmaking, providing valuable insights and enhancing the traffic efficiency while reducing the congestion in urban environments.
Fabrication of a Capacitive 3D Spacer Fabric Pressure Sensor with a Dielectric Constant Change for High Sensitivity
Authors: Lee Ji-Eun , Kim Sang-Un , Kim Joo-Yong
Published: May 2024

Smart wearable sensors are increasingly integrated into everyday life, interfacing with the human body to enable real-time monitoring of biological signals. This study focuses on creating high-sensitivity capacitive-type sensors by impregnating polyester-based 3D spacer fabric with a Carbon Nanotube (CNT) dispersion. The unique properties of conductive particles lead to nonlinear variations in the dielectric constant when pressure is applied, consequently affecting the gauge factor. The results reveal that while the fabric without CNT particles had a gauge factor of 1.967, the inclusion of 0.04 wt% CNT increased it significantly to 5.210. As sensor sensitivity requirements vary according to the application, identifying the necessary CNT wt% is crucial. Artificial intelligence, particularly the Multilayer Perception (MLP) model, enables nonlinear regression analysis for this purpose. The MLP model created and validated in this research showed a high correlation coefficient of 0.99564 between the model predictions and actual target values, indicating its effectiveness and reliability.
Panorama of Slavic stylistics. Book review: Stylistics of Slavic countries at the turn of the 20th–21st centuries: Collective monograph / edited by Art. Guides, Br. Toshovich, N. Klushina, T. Itskovich. Moscow: Flinta, 2023. 465 p.
Authors:   Yaroslav-the-Wise Novgorod State University, Shmeleva T. V.
Published: May 2024

The review discusses a collective monograph that examines stylistics in Slavic countries over the past half century. Written by researchers, essays on national stylistics contain a lot of unique facts characterizing the history, specifics and general trends in the development of Slavic stylistics. The essays are written in national languages, which gives the reader the opportunity to get acquainted with the linguistic diversity of Slavic cultures, the difference in terminology and approaches.
Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis in the Context of Modern International Recommendations
Authors: Волкова М.В.
Published: May 2024

Ревматоидный артрит (РА) является наиболее распространенным и тяжелым хроническим аутоиммунным заболеванием и характеризуется негативным влиянием на продолжительность и качество жизни, трудовую деятельность пациентов, значительными материальными затратами системы здравоохранения. Раннее выявление и лечение РА имеет большое значение для уменьшения негативных последствий заболевания. С этой целью разработаны новые классификационные критерии, которые позволяют диагностировать РА на ранней стадии, сформулирована четкая терапевтическая стратегия «Лечение до достижения цели». В настоящей статье приведены международные рекомендации по лечению РА, которые включают информацию о трех типах лекарственных средств, используемых при лечении заболевания: синтетических, таргетных синтетических и биологических болезнь-модифицирующих противоревматических препаратах. В статье также обсуждены вопросы, связанные с лечением болевого синдрома при РА.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is the most common and severe chronic autoimmune disease and is characterized by a negative impact on the duration and quality of life, work activity of patients, significant material costs of the healthcare system. Early detection and treatment of RA is very important to reduce the negative consequences of the disease. Thus, new classification criteria have been developed that allow the diagnosis of RA at an early stage, and a clear therapeutic strategy "treat to target" has been formulated. This article presents international recommendations for the treatment of RA, which include information on three types of medicines used in the treatment of the disease: synthetic, targeted synthetic and biological disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs. The article also discusses issues related to the treatment of pain syndrome in RA.
New Aspects of the Efficacy and Safety Profile of Medicines Containing Omega-3-Acids Ethyl Esters
Authors: Гринько Д.В. , Кучко А.М. , Ефремова И.Н. , Федосеева И.И.
Published: May 2024

При применении лекарственных препаратов, содержащих омега-3 кислот этиловые эфиры, по показанию «профилактика рецидивов сердечно-сосудистых заболеваний» у пациентов, перенесших инфаркт миокарда, соотношение польза – риск в настоящее время оценивается как неблагоприятное. Совокупность результатов клинических исследований и метаанализов не подтверждает терапевтическую эффективность омега-3 кислоты этиловых эфиров во вторичной профилактике сердечно-сосудистых заболеваний после инфаркта миокарда, в том числе у пациентов из группы высокого риска. Для вышеуказанных лекарственных препаратов сохраняется показание к применению – лечение гипертриглицеридемии, когда изменения питания и образа жизни недостаточно для снижения уровня триглицеридов крови. Установлена как минимум возможная причинно-следственная взаимосвязь между применением омега-3 кислоты этиловых эфиров и развитием фибрилляции предсердий, данная нежелательная реакция оценивается как частая.

Using the medicinal product (s) containing omega-3-acids ethyl esters, according to the indication "prevention of recurrence of cardiovascular diseases" in patients who have suffered a myocardial infarction, the benefit-risk ratio is currently assessed as unfavorable. The totality of the results of clinical studies and meta-analyses does not confirm the therapeutic efficacy of omega-3-acid ethyl esters in the secondary prevention of cardiovascular diseases after myocardial infarction, including in high-risk patients. For the above-mentioned drugs, the indication for use remains – the treatment of hypertriglyceridemia, when changes in diet and lifestyle are not enough to reduce blood triglyceride levels. At least a possible causal relationship has been established between the use of omega-3-acid ethyl esters and the development of atrial fibrillation, this adverse reaction is assessed as frequent.
ESTADO DO CONHECIMENTO DE PRODUÇÕES CIENTÍFICAS QUE VERSAM SOBRE ESTATÍSTICA NOS LIVROS DIDÁTICOS
Authors: Ferner Fernandes Dienifer
Published: May 2024

Este estudo objetivou mapear e analisar produções brasileiras na área da Educação Estatística em periódicos científicos, em especial, as que discutem sobre livros didáticos no ensino e aprendizagem deste campo do conhecimento. A pesquisa é de cunho qualitativo e caracterizada como um estado do conhecimento, tendo como fonte de produção de dados produções cientificas de periódicos da área da Educação Matemática, Ensino e/ou Educação em Ciências. A análise das produções revelou um baixo número de pesquisas relacionadas à Educação Estatística e um número menor ainda quando se trata desta área associada aos livros didáticos. Foram identificadas pesquisas brasileiras e internacionais que versam sobre o tema, as quais apresentaram diferentes tipos de análise, critérios de análise e distintas estruturas para a organização dos dados obtidos.
KEBIJAKAN PAKISTAN TERHADAP TEHREEK-I-TALIBAN PAKISTAN SETELAH KEMENANGAN TALIBAN DI AFGHANISTAN (2021-2022)
Authors: Agnes Putri Eka Nurzaman  , Prihandono Wibowo
Published: May 2024

This research aims to determine Pakistan's policy towards the Pakistan Tehreek-I-Taliban after the Taliban's victory in Afghanistan (2021-2022). The type of research used is explanatory using qualitative methods. This research uses the concept of terrorism and counterterrorism theory. According to Schmid in the Handbook of Terrorism Research in 2011. In response to the increasing number of TTP terror figures in Pakistan after the Taliban's victory over Afghanistan in 2021-2022, the Pakistani government implemented two counterterrorism policies which were divided into two approaches, namely the soft approach and the soft approach. rough approach (hard approach). The approach to counterterrorism policy can be relative, meaning that the implementation of the policy may differ from one country to another, depending on the conditions faced by that country. The research results show that Pakistan has two methods in implementing policies: a soft approach and a hard approach. Pakistan implemented a soft approach policy by mediating with the TTP and choosing the Afghan Taliban as a mediator. Meanwhile, Pakistan implemented a tough approach policy by launching cross-border air strikes into Afghanistan targeting TTP members.
Kidney disease with rapid eGFR decline in type 2 diabetes: an analysis of the AMD Annals
Authors: Manicardi, V.
Published: May 2024

Il rapido declino del filtrato glomerulare (eGFR) è un predittore indipendente di malattia renale allo stadio terminale (ESKD) e di morte nei soggetti con diabete mellito tipo 2 (DT2), ma dati epidemiologici su questo particolare fenotipo sono carenti. In questo articolo abbiamo valutato la prevalenza e le caratteristiche cliniche dei soggetti con rapido declino di eGFR. SCOPO DELLO STUDIO In un campione di soggetti con DT2 di nuova diagnosi nell’ambito dell’ampio dataset dell’iniziativa Annali dell’Associazione Medici Diabetologi (AMD), abbiamo studiato la prevalenza e i fattori associati al rapido declino dell’eGFR, METODI Analisi retrospettiva longitudinale del database Annali AMD. Il rapido declino dell’eGFR è stato definito come una riduzione maggiore di 5 ml/ min/1,73 m2 all’anno in 3 anni. RISULTATI Tra i 105.163 (57,7% M) soggetti con DT2 di nuova diagnosi, il 12,9% mostrava una rapida perdita di eGFR. Una proiezione delle traiettorie dell’eGFR nel tempo mostra come i soggetti con rapido declino possano andare incontro a ESKD entro 8-10 anni dalla diagnosi di diabete. I soggetti con rapido declino dell’eGFR erano in media più anziani, con una maggiore prevalenza di donne, peggiore dislipidemia aterogena (più bassi livelli di HDL e più alti di Trigliceridi), più elevati valori di pressione sistolica, micro/macroalbuminuria e una maggiore prevalenza di malattia cardiovascolare e retinopatia. CONCLUSIONI In un ampio campione di soggetti con DT2 di nuova diagnosi abbiamo identificato il 12,9% di soggetti con un rapido declino dell’eGFR. È necessario identificare e trattare precocemente questi soggetti, che potrebbero andare incontro a dialisi entro dieci anni dalla diagnosi. PAROLE CHIAVE diabete tipo 2 di nuova diagnosi; malattia renale cronica diabetica; rapido declino dell'eGFR; Annali AMD.
Survey on diabetologists’ interest in prescribing Physical Exercise in clinical practice
Authors: Pippi, R.
Published: May 2024

INTRODUZIONE L’evidenza scientifica e clinica pone l’accento sull’importanza della pratica dell’esercizio fisico (EF) nella prevenzione e nel trattamento delle più comuni patologie croniche non trasmissibili, incluso il diabete mellito di tipo 2. Le stesse evidenze pongono l’accento sull’importanza di individuare e di facilitare il superamento delle barriere al cambiamento comportamentale dei pazienti e la diffusione della cultura della prescrizione dell’EF da parte dell’equipe multidisciplinare che segue il paziente diabetico. Pertanto, ci siamo posti l’obiettivo di indagare sulla presenza di eventuali barriere legate alla conoscenza dell’importanza dell’EF e della sua prescrizione, oltre che alla conoscenza dell’area delle Scienze Motorie, da parte dei medici diabetologici. MATERIALI E METODI Tra giugno e luglio 2023, il gruppo di studio interassociativo AMD-SID “Diabete ed attività fisica” ha promosso una survey, in modalità web-based, inviata, tramite le newsletter istituzionali, ai soci AMD e SID. RISULTATI I 415 medici rispondenti, la maggior parte dei quali (i.e. 66%) operanti in un servizio di diabetologia, hanno delineato un quadro ottimistico, ovvero: il 76.4% di loro è fisicamente attivo, il 99.5% ritiene importante l’EF nel percorso terapeutico del paziente diabetico ed il 96.9% dei rispondenti ritiene che nella fase di educazione terapeutica possa essere inserito anche il supporto tecnico all’autogestione dell’EF. Tuttavia, il 59.8% dei rispondenti ha dichiarato di non avere sufficienti informazioni in tema di EF, il 94.9% parteciperebbe a seminari di implementazione formativa per la prescrizione di EF ed il 78.3% ha dichiarato di non conoscere l’identità ed il ruolo del chinesiologo specialista. CONCLUSIONI I risultati sottolineano l’importanza di favorire la formazione e l’integrazione delle professionalità nell’ambito dell’EF e la promozione della collaborazione interprofessionale con gli specialisti del movimento. PAROLE CHIAVE esercizio fisico; diabete mellito; prescrizione.