bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The history of the Vienna Protocol on dealing with Holocaust era human remains and its resonance with ethical considerations in African American bioarcheology
Authors: Hildebrandt Sabine
Published: March 2024

The Vienna Protocol on How to Deal with Holocaust Era Human Remains describes what to do when possibly Jewish human remains are found. Based on Jewish medical ethics, it responds to the 2014–2017 discoveries of human remains stemming from biomedical contexts of the Nazi period. Among the finding sites were the Dahlem campus of the Free University of Berlin, the Medical University of Strasbourg, and Max Planck Institute archives. The Vienna Protocol is unique among similar recommendations on Nazi era human remains in its representation of the voices of those who suffered violence and were targeted as victims by Nazi persecution. In addition to discussing the ethics of dealing with physical human remains, these recommendations address the use of images (i.e., visual data) from the bodies of victims of Nazi violence. This paper presents the historical background of the Vienna Protocol and its impact. It also offers a first analysis as to why, at the time of the protocol's formulation, its authors were unaware of its resonance with ethical considerations from African American bioarcheology and a new ethical culture in bioanthropology. Potential reasons for this disconnect may include the historic marginalization of the voices of black scholars in anthropology within the wider scientific community. However, more detailed studies are needed to analyze similarities and differences between the histories and continuities of antisemitism and racism in Europe and the U.S.A., and their ties with scientific theories and practices of disciplines that gain knowledge from human remains.
Synthesis of phosphine‐tethered indenyl ruthenium complexes through c‐h bonds activation followed by C‐C bond coupling: High performance catalysts for the redox isomerization of allylic alcohols
Authors: Deng Danfeng , Chen Chongwei , Dong Shuo , Zhang Ke , Wang Zefeng , Guo Sheng‐Rong
Published: March 2024

Reactions of 3‐(2‐pyridyl)indene and 5‐methyl‐3‐(2‐pyridyl)indene with Ru(PPh3)3Cl2, generated two phosphine‐tethered indenyl ruthenium complexes {η5,κ1P‐(C5H4N‐C9H4R‐C6H4PPh2)}RuCl(PPh3) (R = H, 1; R = CH3, 2), respectively. While treatment of 3‐(6‐methyl‐2‐pyridyl)indene with Ru(PPh3)3Cl2 gave a product {η5‐(CH3C5H3N‐C9H6)}RuCl(PPh3)2 (3); 1 could further react with NaBArF4 to produce a cationic complex [{η5,κ1P‐(C5H4N‐C9H5‐C6H4PPh2)}Ru(PPh3)][BArF4] (15). When treated with NaOMe in methanol, 1 was converted into [{η5,κ1P‐(C5H4N‐C9H5‐C6H4PPh2)}RuH(PPh3)] (16). These five complexes were investigated as catalysts for redox isomerization of allylic alcohols, and 16 exhibited best catalytic activity in the presence of tBuOK, reaching quantitative yield in 5 min when α‐vinylbenzyl alcohol was used as the substrate, requiring catalyst loading of 1 mol%.
Mutations in KASIIB result in increased levels of palmitic acid in soybean seeds
Authors: Devereaux Rachel , Carrero‐Colón Militza , Hudson Karen
Published: March 2024

The plasticity of the lipid profile of soybean oil has made the soybean a crop with value in feed, food and industrial uses. Soybean oil typically consists of approximately 10% of the fully saturated palmitic acid, which has value for industrial purposes, however it is generally undesirable in food applications. Two soybean KASII (ketoacyl‐ACP synthase II) genes have been previously implicated in the control of seed palmitic acid levels. Using forward genetics, we isolated four novel alleles in the GmKASIIB gene that result in increased levels of palmitic acid, ranging from 13% to 16% of the total fatty acid content, over multiple seasons in the field. Three of the KASIIB mutations result in independent amino acid substitutions at conserved positions in the KASII protein, and one single nucleotide polymorphism is likely to cause aberrant splicing of the KASIIB transcript. These new mutations can be used in breeding applications to increase palmitic acid content and to probe the control of fatty acid biosynthesis in soybean seeds.
Which international co‐authorships produce higher quality journal articles?
Authors: Thelwall Mike , Kousha Kayvan , Abdoli Mahshid , Stuart Emma , Makita Meiko , Wilson Paul , Levitt Jonathan
Published: March 2024

International collaboration is sometimes encouraged in the belief that it generates higher quality research or is more capable of addressing societal problems. Nevertheless, while there is evidence that the journal articles of international teams tend to be more cited than average, perhaps from increased international audiences, there is no science‐wide direct academic evidence of a connection between international collaboration and research quality. This article empirically investigates the connection between international collaboration and research quality for the first time, with 148,977 UK‐based journal articles with post publication expert review scores from the 2021 Research Excellence Framework (REF). Using an ordinal regression model controlling for collaboration, international partners increased the odds of higher quality scores in 27 out of 34 Units of Assessment (UoAs) and all Main Panels. The results therefore give the first large scale evidence of the fields in which international co‐authorship for articles is usually apparently beneficial. At the country level, the results suggests that UK collaboration with other high research‐expenditure economies generates higher quality research, even when the countries produce lower citation impact journal articles than the United Kingdom. Worryingly, collaborations with lower research‐expenditure economies tend to be judged lower quality, possibly through misunderstanding Global South research goals.
How do operational meteorologists perceive model performance for elevated convection?
Authors: Flack David L. A. , Lattimore Chris , Seltzer Mark , Silverstone Michael D. , Lehnert Matthew , Lean Humphrey W. , Petch Jon C. , Willington Steve
Published: March 2024

Operational Meteorologists (OMs) in the Met Office have a perception that elevated convection is not well represented in kilometre‐scale models, which are generally associated with an improved representation of convection. Here, we consider why there may be a problem with representing elevated convection and consider how OMs judge the model to be poor so often. Three OMs have subjectively scored and classified observed elevated convection cases over the UK from 2017 to 2020. Continental plumes (warm, moist, air coming from the near continent or Africa) account for 73% of the cases. The most frequent errors are associated with (i) location, (ii) organisation, (iii) timing and (iv) intensity of the convection. Thus, OMs perceive that the biggest problem with predicting elevated convection is constraining the location of the convective events. The location errors are particularly prevalent for events coming to the UK from the near continent. The location errors are most frequently identified for flow regimes coming from the near continent in weakly forced synoptic conditions. The identification of this problem enables the specific targeting of research into continental plumes (for UK elevated convection) but also raises questions around the role of lateral boundary conditions in the forecasts of elevated convection.
Reasons for repeat urgent cardiac procedures within the same day
Authors: Bhogal Sukhdeep , Garg Mohil , Meda Namratha S. , Merdler Ilan , Wermers Jason P. , Hashim Hayder D. , Ben‐Dor Itsik , Waksman Ron
Published: March 2024

Background

With advances in technology and technique, the expectations are that patients undergoing procedures in the cardiac catheterization laboratory will not need to return for a repeat procedure within the same day.

Objectives

Report why subjects undergoing cardiac procedures return urgently to the catheterization laboratory for a repeat procedure during the same day.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed patients who were brought back to the cardiac catheterization laboratory within the same day for a repeat procedure. The reasons for index and repeat procedure were identified. Patients who were transferred from an outside center after an initial procedure at other centers were excluded.

Results

Between November 2013 and January 2022, 55,942 catheterization procedures were performed at our institution, of which 140 entries were included in our analysis. Common reasons for the index procedure were diagnostic angiography (35.0%), percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI, 29.2%), and transcatheter aortic valve replacement (15.0%). The most common reason for bringing these patients back to the cardiac catheterization laboratory within the same day was vascular complications (24.2%), followed by repeat PCI (20.7%), need for hemodynamic support (15.0%), heart team discussion and PCI (10%), and pacemaker implantation (10%). Acute limb ischemia was the most commonly identified vascular complication (7.1%), followed by pseudoaneurysm (5%).

Conclusion

Our study demonstrates that a very small number of patients underwent repeat procedures within the same day. Special attention should be paid to vascular access and closure and assessment of recurrent chest pain postprocedure, as these are the main reasons for same‐day repeat procedures.
Isolated perinephric abscess as the initial manifestation of filariasis—an unusual presentation
Authors: Sharma Govind , Sachdeva Rajat , Aggarwal Shweta , Verma Amogh , Anand Ayush , Singh Ajeet , Satapathy Prakasini
Published: March 2024

Key Clinical Message

Filariasis may present as an isolated perinephric abscess. Hence, a high index of suspicion should be maintained in endemic settings.

In cases with unexplained fever, eosinophilia and perinephric collection, it is necessary to do detailed infectious disease work up. High index of suspicion is required to diagnose filariasis due to its wide range of clinical presentation and laboratory findings. It may present as perinephric abscess, which can be diagnosed through ultrasonography.
Hypothyroidism presenting as a fissure tongue
Authors: Mylaraiah Ravishankar , Sharma Sangeeta , Shalaby Tamer
Published: March 2024

Key Clinical Message

We are reporting a case of hypothyroidism presenting as fissured tongue, demonstrating significant resolution of fissure tongue upon thyroid hormone replacement therapy.
Photoredox Catalytic Access to N,O‐Acetals from Enamides by Means of Electron‐Poor Perylene Bisimides
Authors: Steuernagel Desirée , Rombach David , Wagenknecht Hans‐Achim
Published: March 2024

N,O‐acetals are found as structural motifs in natural products and are important synthetic precursors for N‐acylimines as building blocks in organic synthesis for C−C‐bond formation and amines. For the synthesis of N,O‐acetals, an acid‐, base‐ and metal‐free catalytic method is reported applying N,N‐di‐(2,6‐diisopropyl)‐1,7‐dicyano‐perylen‐3,4,9,10‐tetracarboxylic acid imide and N,N‐di‐(2,6‐diisopropyl)‐1,6,7,12‐tetrabromo‐2,5,8,11‐tetracyano‐perylen‐3,4,9,10‐tetracarboxylic acid imide as extremely electron‐deficient photocatalysts. The first perylene bisimide highly selectively photocatalyzes the formation of the N,O‐acetals as products in high yields, and the second and more electron‐deficient perylene bisimide allows these reactions without thiophenol as an H‐atom transfer reagent. Calculated electron density maps support this. The reaction scope comprises different substituents at the nitrogen of the enamides and different alcohols as starting material. Dehydroalanines are converted to non‐natural amino acids which shows the usefulness of this method for organic and medicinal chemistry.
ADSBAN: Anomaly detection system for body area networks utilizing IoT and machine learning
Authors: Siddiqui Mohd Ahsan , Kalra Mala , Krishna C. Rama
Published: March 2024

Body area networks (BANs) play a pivotal role in modern healthcare, enabling real‐time data collection and monitoring of vital patient parameters, thereby empowering healthcare providers to respond swiftly to any serious health conditions. These networks depend on strategically placed sensors on the patient's body to collect important health data. The integrity of this data is really important, as problems with a component can cause doctors to make mistakes that could be life‐threatening. Consequently, developing and evaluating robust anomaly detection methods for BANs is paramount. To address this concern, an anomaly detection system for body area networks (ADSBAN) has been proposed in this article. Different machine learning methods have been tested and implemented to improve the proposed system's performance. These include decision tree, K‐nearest neighbor, logistic regression (LR), random forest, AdaBoost (Adaptive Boosting), and XGBoost (Extreme Gradient Boosting). Further, this framework has been tested with emulated and standard datasets and compared with existing methodologies. The research employs an IoT Flock emulator to replicate BAN conditions and simulate two distinct attack scenarios. Wireshark aids in thoroughly analyzing network traffic, while Python, in conjunction with tools like Keras and Pandas, is instrumental in implementing the ML models. Further, a CIC flowmeter has been utilized to convert the .pcap file format into .CSV file format. Comprehensive evaluation metrics such as precision, recall, accuracy, F1 score, and the Mathew correlation coefficient (MCC) demonstrate the consistent superiority of LR on emulated (i.e., traffic generated through a simulator IoT Flock) and standard datasets (BoT‐IoT). LR shows the highest accuracy of 99.92% on emulated and standard datasets, while XGBoost has the highest average accuracy of 99.92% on standard dataset. This research significantly bolsters the reliability of healthcare data, instilling confidence among healthcare professionals in their decision‐making processes. By safeguarding the integrity of vital health data in BANs, it advances the quality of patient care. It underscores the indispensable role of ML techniques in fortifying the resilience of healthcare systems.
Crystal Growth, Optical, Thermal, DFT and Z‐Scan Studies of Imidazolium Hydrogen Fumarate Crystal for Nonlinear Optical Applications
Authors: Chinnakannu Elavarasi , Sankar Mugundan , Chandran Senthilkumar , Thamotharan Keerthivasan , Manickam Srinivasan
Published: March 2024

Organic imidazolium hydrogen fumarate (IHF) crystals are grown using the slow evaporation method. The IHF has triclinic crystal structure. The 1H NMR spectrum has five chemical shifts for the IHF crystal. The band at 3155 cm−1 in IR occurs due to the presence of O─H stretching vibration of the IHF molecule. The bandgap value of the IHF crystal is determined to be 4.6 eV. The intense violet emission band is noted at 361 nm. The IHF crystal has thermal stability value of 179 °C. Hirshfeld surface is used to find out the different intermolecular interactions of the IHF crystal. The HOMO–LUMO energy gap is determined to be 4.70 eV. The hydrogen atoms have positive potential in the MEP analysis. The high stabilization energy of 56.81 kcal mol−1 is noticed for π*(C1─N7) → π*(C2─C3) interaction. The third‐order NLO susceptibility (χ(3)) of the IHF is 2.08934 × 10−9 esu.
A Review of Capacity Decay Studies of All‐vanadium Redox Flow Batteries: Mechanism and State Estimation
Authors: Wang Yupeng , Mu Anle , Wang Wuyang , Yang Bin , Wang Jiahui
Published: March 2024

As a promising large‐scale energy storage technology, all‐vanadium redox flow battery has garnered considerable attention. However, the issue of capacity decay significantly hinders its further development, and thus the problem remains to be systematically sorted out and further explored. This review provides comprehensive insights into the multiple factors contributing to capacity decay, encompassing vanadium cross‐over, self‐discharge reactions, water molecules migration, gas evolution reactions, and vanadium precipitation. Subsequently, it analyzes the impact of various battery parameters on capacity. Based on this foundation, the article expounds upon the significance of battery internal state estimation technology. Additionally, the review also summarizes domestic and international mathematical models utilized for simulating capacity decay, serving as a valuable reference for future research endeavors. Finally, through the comparison of traditional experimental methods and mathematical modeling methods, this article offers effective guidance for the future development direction of battery state monitoring. This review generally overview the problems related to the capacity attenuation of all‐vanadium flow batteries, which is of great significance for understanding the mechanism behind capacity decay and state monitoring technology of all‐vanadium redox flow battery.
Highly Effective Non‐Noble MnO2 Catalysts for 5‐Hydroxymethylfurfural Oxidation to 2,5‐Furandicarboxylic Acid
Authors: Álvarez‐Hernández Débora , Megías‐Sayago Cristina , Penkova Anna , Centeno Miguel Ángel , Ivanova Svetlana
Published: March 2024

Noble metal‐free catalyst or catalytic oxidation of 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural into 2,5‐furandicarboxylic acid are proposed in this study as a proposal to solve one of the great disadvantages of this reaction of using preferably noble metal‐based catalysts. The catalytic activity of six MnO2 crystal structures is studied as alternative. The obtained results showed a strong connection between catalytic activity the type of MnO2 structure organization and redox behavior. Among all tested catalysts, ϵ‐MnO2 showed the best performance with an excellent yield of 74 % of 2,5‐furandicarboxylic acid at full ‐hydroxymethylfurfural conversion.
An improved CMOS second‐generation current controlled conveyor with enhanced tunable range of RX and its applications
Authors: Chhabra Aakriti , Senani Raj , Aggarwal Bhawna
Published: March 2024

This paper presents a new CMOS‐based second‐generation current controlled conveyor (CCCII), based on a mixed translinear cell composed of CMOS‐based translinear elements, which offers a wide tunable range of four decades for the X‐terminal input resistance RX. The current‐controlled grounded and floating tunable resistors and multifunction filter with tunable cut‐off frequency have been realized to show the practical utility of the proposed CCCII architecture. Various performance evaluations have been carried out through simulations conducted on Cadence Virtuoso software using 0.18 μm gpdk CMOS technology at a supply voltage of ±1.5 V. Simulation results show the effectiveness of the proposed CCCII in attaining a wide tunable Rx ranging from 130 MΩ to 13 kΩ, offering good linearity, nearly unity voltage and current transfer gains, high input impedance at port Y varying from 3.7 GΩ to 1.18 MΩ, high output impedance at port Z varying from 67.63 GΩ to 13.19 MΩ, with the power consumption in the range of 3.68 μW to 18.78 μW for variation in bias current (Io) from 100 pA to 1 μA.
Methotrexate‐associated lymphoproliferative disorder: A rare pancreatic tumor diagnosed via endoscopic ultrasound‐guided fine‐needle biopsy
Authors: Kitagawa Koh , Oyama Masafumi , Asada Shohei , Sato Shinya , Nakatani Tatsuya , Nishimura Naoki , Mui Yuka , Hanatani Jun‐ichi , Takeda Maiko , Yoshiji Hitoshi
Published: March 2024

A 73‐year‐old woman with a history of rheumatoid arthritis treated with methotrexate (MTX) for the last 10 years was referred to our hospital for a pancreatic tumor examination. Contrast‐enhanced abdominal computed tomography revealed a 20‐mm‐diameter hypovascular tumor in the pancreatic tail. A hypoechoic mass with heterogeneous internal echo was found on an endoscopic ultrasound (EUS). An EUS‐guided fine‐needle biopsy (EUS‐FNB) was performed with a 22‐gauge Franseen‐tip needle. Histologic examination of EUS‐FNB specimens from the pancreatic tumor revealed the proliferation of atypical spindle cells. Immunohistochemical staining for CD20 and Ki‐67 was positive in the atypical cells. Immunohistochemical staining for CD3 was partially positive in the atypical cells. Epstein–Barr virus‐encoded RNA in situ hybridization showed positive staining. MTX‐related lymphoproliferative disorder (MTX‐LPD) with Epstein‐Barr virus infection was diagnosed. MTX treatment was immediately discontinued, and treatment was initiated by a hematologist. However, her condition rapidly deteriorated, and she died of multiple organ failure 4 weeks after diagnosis. MTX‐LPD can complicate gastrointestinal lesions. However, most lesions are localized in the stomach and rarely complicate pancreatic lesions. MTX‐LPD is classified as an “iatrogenic” LPD. Therefore, immediate action, such as MTX discontinuation, is necessary. In conclusion, endoscopists should be aware that MTX‐LPD lesions can occur in the pancreas and gastrointestinal tract. Moreover, EUS‐FNB can be useful in the diagnosis of this rare pancreatic tumor.
Reliability of roadside oral fluid testing devices for ∆9‐tetrahydrocannabinol (∆9‐THC) detection
Authors: Scherer Juliana Nichterwitz , Vasconcelos Mailton , Dalanhol Carolina Silveira , Govoni Bruna , dos Santos Bruno Pereira , Borges Gabriela Ramos , de Gouveia Giovanna Cristiano , Viola Patrícia Pacheco , Carlson Renato Luiz Romera , Martins Aline Franco , Costa Jose Luiz , Huestis Marilyn A. , Pechansky Flavio
Published: March 2024

Driving under the influence of cannabis (DUIC) is increasing worldwide, and cannabis is the most prevalent drug after alcohol in impaired driving cases, emphasizing the need for a reliable traffic enforcement strategy. ∆9‐tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) detection in oral fluid has great potential for identifying recent cannabis use; however, additional data are needed on the sensitivities, specificities, and efficiencies of different oral fluid devices for detecting cannabinoids at the roadside by police during routine traffic safety enforcement efforts. At the roadside, 8945 oral fluid THC screening tests were performed with four devices: AquilaScan®, Dräger DrugTest®, WipeAlyser Reader®, and Druglizer®. A total of 530 samples screened positive for THC (5.9%) and were analyzed by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry at multiple cutoff concentrations (2 ng/mL, 10 ng/mL, and manufacturers' recommended device cutoffs) to investigate device performance. Results varied substantially, with sensitivities of 0%–96.8%, specificities of 89.8%–98.5%, and efficiencies of 84.3%–97.8%. The Dräger DrugTest® outperformed the other devices with a 96.8% sensitivity, 97.1% specificity, and 97.0% efficiency at a 5‐ng/mL LC–MS/MS confirmation cutoff. The WipeAlyser Reader® had good performance with a 91.4% sensitivity, 97.2% specificity, and 96.4% efficiency. AquilaScan® and Druglizer® had unacceptable performance for cannabinoid detection, highlighted by sensitivity <13%. The choice of roadside oral fluid testing device must offer good analytical performance for cannabinoids because of its high prevalence of use and impact on road safety.
Application of integrated geophysical techniques in geothermal exploration in Binhai County, Jiangsu Province
Authors: Wang Juncheng , Gao Shiyin , Wang Jianguo , Li Lin , Gong Xiaoyan , Su Jinbao
Published: March 2024

Integrated geophysical technology is a necessary and effective means for geothermal exploration. However, integration of geophysical technology for large‐scale surveys with those for geothermal reservoir localization is still in development. This study used the controlled source audio‐frequency magnetotelluric method technology for large‐scale exploration to obtain underground electrical structure information and micromotion detection technology to obtain underground wave velocity structure information. The combination of two detection technologies was used for local identification of geothermal reservoirs. Further, auxiliary correction and inversion constraint were implemented through the audio magnetotelluric sounding technology for maximum authenticity restoration of the near‐ and transition‐field data. Through these technology improvements, a geothermal geological model was established for the Binhai County of Jiangsu Province in China and potential geothermal well locations were identified. On this basis, a geothermal well was drilled nearly 3000 m deep, with a daily water volume of over 2000 m3/day and a geothermal water temperature of 51°C at the well head. It is found that predictions using the above integrated geophysical exploration technology are in good agreement with the well geological formation data. This integrated geophysical technology can be effectively applied for geothermal exploration with high precision and reliability.
Polyhalogenated Carbohydrates: Synthesis and Applications of Sugar Halides from Fluorine to Iodine
Authors: Lessard Olivier , Lainé Danny , Giguère Denis
Published: March 2024

Polyfluorinated carbohydrates have attracted attention in the last decades. This is due to the interesting properties of such organofluorines. What about the other halogens? Since the discovery of sucralose (a trichlorinated disaccharide) more than 50 years ago, only a handful of chlorinated, brominated, or iodinated carbohydrates have been reported. This review focuses on the synthesis of polyhalogenated carbohydrates, including sugar inter‐halides, but excluding polyfluorinated sugars. An overview of the current state of the art of their potential application is also described.
C(sp2)‐H Imination of Imidazo[1,2‐a]pyridines: A Catalyst‐Free, Multicomponent Approach
Authors: Subba Rao Yadavalli , Arun Doma , Devunuri Nagaraju , Yaragorla Srinivasarao
Published: March 2024

We report here a catalyst‐free, (sp2)C−H imination reaction of in‐situ formed imidazo[1,2‐a]pyridines and α‐iminoketones. This one‐pot, multicomponent, and atom economic reaction is performed at moderate to room temperature without the need for any catalyst and inert conditions. The reaction showed good substrate tolerance with appreciable yields. Gram‐scale synthesis and post‐synthetic modifications to obtain 1,2‐diketones are also described.
Will you get vaccinated? Trade‐offs between purity, liberty and care predict attitudes towards Covid‐19 vaccination
Authors: Ahluwalia‐McMeddes Amrita , Guthrie Sarah L. , Taylor Catriona Z.
Published: March 2024

How do tensions between moral values predict how likely we are to receive Covid‐19 vaccination? Previous work suggests that moral foundations, particularly purity and liberty, relate to decisions to vaccinate. In addition, research on the moral trade‐off hypothesis suggests value in exploring trade‐offs between foundations. We conducted three studies across the pandemic: at the start of the vaccine rollout (Study 1, N = 170); during delivery (Study 2, N = 328) and 2 years later (Study 3, N = 388). We find that trade‐offs between purity and care and between liberty and care are predictive of higher levels of vaccine reluctance—individuals who endorse purity or liberty more, relative to care, were more reluctant towards Covid‐19 vaccination, less likely to have received a vaccine and have lower intention to get future Covid‐19 vaccines. This research highlights the relevance of moral values, and trade‐offs between them, in vaccine attitudes and decisions.
Dynamic sliding window‐cooperative spectrum sensing against massive SSDF attack in interweave cognitive internet of things
Authors: Zhu Gefei , Wu Jun , Su Mingkun , Xu Xiaorong , Dai Mingyuan , Qiao Lei , Gan Jipeng , He Jiangtao , Cao Weiwei
Published: March 2024

To improve spectrum utilization, cognitive radio (CR) enables unauthorized internet of thing (IoT) devices to opportunistically access the channel underutilized by the primary user (PU) in a cognitive IoT (CIoT). To this end, cooperative spectrum sensing (CSS) plays a crucial role in CR technology, which leverages the spatial diversity of corroborative IoT devices to accurately detect the PU signal. However, this open cooperative paradigm may suffer from spectrum sensing data falsification (SSDF) attack in which malicious IoT devices intentionally mislead the fusion center (FC) by providing false sensing results to make an incorrect global decision regarding the PU status. To effectively characterize the attack behavior of malicious IoT devices, we propose a massive SSDF attack model described by the attack cycle and malicious ratio within a sensing period to characterize the malicious behaviors. Additionally, we introduce a delivery evaluation mechanism and propose a dynamic sliding window‐CSS (DSW‐CSS) to mitigate the impact of massive SSDF attack. Moreover, we introduce a sequential reporting mechanism to further reduce the number of samples required by the global decision‐making of the FC. Finally, simulation results show the flexibility and aggressiveness of the proposed attack model and demonstrate the correctness and effectiveness of DSW‐CSS.
Linking the relationship between dietary folic acid intake and risk of osteoporosis among middle‐aged and older people: A nationwide population‐based study
Authors: Zhang Yuan‐Wei , Hu Yan , Wang Si‐Cheng , Li Zu‐Hao , Cai Gui‐Quan , Shen Hao , Sheng Shi‐Hao , Chen Xiao , Weng Wei‐Zong , Zhang Wen‐Cai , Chen Yuan , Su Jia‐Can
Published: March 2024

Among middle‐aged and older people, balanced and nutritious diets are the foundation for maintaining bone health and preventing osteoporosis. This study is aimed at investigating the link between dietary folic acid intake and the risk of osteoporosis among middle‐aged and older people. A total of 20,686 people from the National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey (NHANES) 2007–2010 are screened and included, and 5312 people aged ≥45 years with integral data are ultimately enrolled in evaluation. Demographics and dietary intake‐related data are gathered and analyzed, and the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) of each tertile category of dietary folic acid intake and each unit increase in folic acid are assessed via multivariate logistic regression models. On this basis, the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve is used to identify the optimal cutoff value of dietary folic acid intake for indicating the risk of osteoporosis. Of 5312 people with a mean age of 62.4 ± 11.0 years old, a total of 513 people with osteoporosis are screened, and the dietary folic acid intake amount of the osteoporosis group is significantly lower than that of the non‐osteoporosis group (p < .001). The lowest tertile category is then used to act as a reference category, and a higher dietary folic acid intake amount is observed to be positively related to lower odds for risk of osteoporosis. This trend is also not changed in adjustments for combinations of different covariates (p all < .05). Based on this, a dietary folic acid intake of 475.5 μg/day is identified as an optimal cutoff value for revealing osteoporosis. Collectively, this nationwide population‐based study reveals that a higher daily dietary folic acid intake has potential protective effects on osteoporosis in middle‐aged and older people.
Quality issues of implied volatilities of index and stock options in the OptionMetrics IvyDB database
Authors: Wallmeier Martin
Published: March 2024

For stock and index options in the United States, OptionMetrics records prices at 3:59 p.m., not 4:00 p.m. as assumed in previous literature. The resulting 1‐min time discrepancy with closing share prices creates artificial variability in implied volatility spreads and strongly affects market‐wide spreads. It leads to particularly large distortions at the onset of the COVID‐19 pandemic. For index options in Europe, OptionMetrics data show large deviations from put‐call parity even though the original option prices match the parity exactly. Finally, the implied volatilities of stock options in Europe show clusters of exceptional deviations due to incorrect dividend information.
Prognostic value of bone marrow and tumor 18F‐FDG uptake on PET/CT in patients with oropharyngeal cancer and the interplay between inflammation and FDG uptake
Authors: Christou Constantina Nadia , Sandström Karl , Regula Naresh , Ehrsson Ylva Tiblom , Johansson Hemming , Sörensen Jens , Laurell Göran
Published: March 2024

Aims

To examine the prognostic value of F‐18 fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) uptake in the bone marrow (BM) for disease recurrence and survival in patients with oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OP‐SCC). The secondary aims were to evaluate the prognostic value of PET/CT parameters for the primary oropharyngeal tumor and total tumor burden, and to assess the correlation between FDG uptake variables and serum inflammatory markers.

Methods

This was an observational study of 91 patients with OP‐SCC who underwent pretreatment FDG‐PET/CT. The patients' blood samples were collected before treatment, and treatment was administered with the intention to cure. The median follow‐up time was 40 months. The PET parameters measured were SUVmeanBM for the assessment of BM FDG uptake, SUVmean, SUVmax, total lesion glycolysis (TLG), and metabolic tumor volume (MTV) for the evaluation of primary oropharyngeal tumor and total tumor burden.

Blood samples were analyzed to determine each patient's white cell, red cell, and platelet cell counts, hemoglobin, and C‐reactive protein level. In a subgroup of 33 patients, blood serum was analyzed to evaluate the expression of serum immune proteins using a proximity extension assay (Olink Proteomics).

Results

The univariate analysis revealed that SUVmeanBM and tumor‐specific parameters (SUVmaxtumor, SUVmeantotal, SUVmaxtotal, MTVtotal, TLGtotal) were significantly associated with recurrence‐free survival (RFS). After adjusting for age, sex, and stage only SUVmeanBM remained significantly associated with RFS. Spearman's correlation identified several correlations between PET parameters and inflammatory markers.

Conclusions

Our results show that several FDG‐PET/CT parameters may have a prognostic value of treatment outcome in patients with OP‐SCC. However, SUVmeanBM was the only independent PET parameter that showed a prognostic value for RFS in the study cohort. Moreover, the study findings might suggest an association between systemic inflammation and the metabolic activity in the BM.
Prevalence of occupational injuries and associated factors among workers of textile and garment factories during the era of COVID‐19 pandemic in mekelle city, Northern Ethiopia: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Weldearegay Efoita , Redae Gebru Hailu , Asgedom Akeza Awealom
Published: March 2024

Background and Aim

Occupational injury is any personal injury that can lead to disease, disability, or death due to accidents sustained by workers while performing their work. The present study aimed to determine the prevalence of occupational injuries and associated factors among workers of textile and garment factories in Mekelle City, Northern Ethiopia during the era of COVID‐19.

Methods

A cross‐ectional study was conducted among 348 Textile and Garment factories in Mekelle City, Northern Ethiopia on September and October 2020. Data were collected using a semi‐structured face‐to‐face interview questionnaire by trained data collectors and supervisors. Occupational injury was assessed by a yes/no question “Have you had any injury related to your occupation in the last 12 months?.” Epi Data version 3.1 was used to enter data and Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23 was used for data analysis. A multivariable logistic regression model was used to determine the independent determinants of occupational injury, and variables with p < 0.05 were considered as statistically significant.

Results

The annual prevalence rate of occupational injury among textile and garment factories was 27.8% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 23.2−32.9%). Factors like being a male (AOR = 3.65; 95% CI = 1.92−6.92), job satisfaction (AOR = 0.22; 95% CI = 0.11−0.43), sleeping disorder (AOR = 3.47; 95% CI = 1.91−6.32), job stress (AOR = 2.62; 95% CI = 1.44−4.73), and safety and health training (AOR = 0.40; 95% CI = 0.22−0.74) were significantly associated with the occurrence of occupational injury.

Conclusion

Expectedly, lockdown during COVID‐19 could lead to absenteeism and reduced prevalence of occupational injuries as the outcome of this study.
Extracellular DNA as potential contributors to pathological calcification
Authors: Niu Longzhang , Zhu Yina , Wan Meichen , Wang Chenyu , Hao Xinyi , Song Jinghan , Lei Chen , Qin Zixuan , Tay Franklin , Niu Lina
Published: March 2024

Some biomolecules involved in pathological calcification have been identified. However, the exact mechanism in which this intricate process occurs remains unknown. Extracellular DNA (exDNA) has recently been recognized as a partaker in this ectopic phenomenon. Extracellular DNA acts as an intercellular messenger that transmits information and orchestrates complex inflammatory responses. Changes in the morphology or function of exDNA may trigger calcification under pathological conditions. In the present review, recent advances on how DNA is released into the extracellular milieu to become exDNA will be highlighted in conjunction with how exDNA directly and indirectly contributes to the progression of pathological calcification. Emphasis is placed on the “gluing” effect of neutrophil extracellular traps that act as a bridge between inflammation and pathological calcification. Manipulation of exDNA may open new vistas for the development of enterprising strategies that prevent or treat pathological calcification.
Experience and impact of inappropriate patient sexual behaviors within a large VA healthcare system
Authors: Gebhardt Heather M. , Norr Aaron M. , Markman Jesse D. , Reger Mark A.
Published: March 2024

Inappropriate patient sexual behaviors (IPSBs) can negatively impact work performance, job satisfaction, and the psychological well‐being of clinicians and staff. Although the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States, the rate of IPSBs in VHA hospitals is unknown. The unique demographic and cultural characteristics of military populations may be associated with IPSBs. To evaluate the extent and impact of IPSBs within a large VA healthcare system (VAHS), a survey was disseminated to all staff. Among the 32% of staff who responded (N = 1359), over half (n = 789; 58.1%) of participants reported at least one instance of IPSB during the past year; this included 67.9% (n = 644) of staff who identified as women and 33.4% (n = 126) of staff who identified as men. There was a significantly greater impact of IPSBs for women, as compared to men, on psychological well‐being (X21 = 60.4, p < .001, odds ratio [OR] = 4.55, 95% confidence interval [CI]: [3.08, 6.79]), work satisfaction (X21 = 43.0, p < .001, OR = 3.51, 95% CI: [2.40, 5.18]), and workplace practices (X21 = 48.9, p < .001, OR = 4.02, 95% CI: [2.69, 6.11]). The results of this project highlight the need for overcoming barriers to reducing the pervasiveness and impact of these experiences.
Unpacking the journey to property crime in Changchun, China
Authors: Zhao Ziyu , Zhou Heng , Sun Qian (Chayn)
Published: March 2024

Journey to crime describes the spatial patterns of offenders from their residential area to the crime location. When compared to other research topics regarding urban crime, there is still a lack of research on journey to crime, especially in China, as a result of which the behavioural motivation of offenders cannot be comprehensively examined. Four typical types of crimes committed against property (pickpocketing, robbery, theft and burglary) were investigated in the Nanguan District of Changchun from 2010 to 2016. The results showed significant effects of the demographic characteristics of offenders and spatiotemporal factors on the journey to crime. In terms of the place of household registration, offenders from the central urban districts of Changchun tend to commit short‐distance local robbery, whereas those from the suburban counties tend to commit long‐distance non‐local crimes. With increasing population density, the proportion of local plunders increases directly. This study aims to encourage urban managers to rethink the governance of floating populations, and assist police in strengthening social security.
Blockchain of things (BoT) innovation for smart tourism
Authors: Suanpang Pannee , Pothipassa Pattanaphong , Jittithavorn Chompunuch
Published: March 2024

This study aims to (a) develop the innovation of BoT prototype; and (b) provide an effective platform to recommend tourists activity, implement and trials blockchain prototype for booking travel activities, whether booking travel programs, air ticket booking hotel stay visits to attractions and payment of goods and services, and evaluate tourist intention to use BoT. The developed architecture enables the integration of blockchain technology capabilities into IoT technology based on high performance of usability, stability, accuracy, and completeness. The BoT prototype is evaluated by 428 users to support smart tourism. This support is significant and the level includes the BoT functional benefit (security, process, and availability) that is positively related to the intention to adopt BoT, and user benefit (trust, usability) is also positive related with intention to adopt BoT. This study significantly contributes to revolutionizing the tourism industry by implementing BOT in smart tourism destinations to gain competitive advantage.
Acoustic Activation Imaging With Intravenous Perfluoropropane Nanodroplets Results in Selective Bioactivation of the Risk Area
Authors: Li Shouqiang , Chen Cheng , Lof John , Stolze Elizabeth A. , Sklenar Jiri , Chen Xucai , Pacella John J. , Villanueva Flordeliza S. , Matsunaga Terry O. , Everbach E. Carr , Radio Stanley J. , Westphal Sherry N. , Shiva Sruti , Xie Feng , Leng Xiaoping , Porter Thomas R.
Published: March 2024

Background

Acoustically activatable perfluoropropane droplets (PD) can be formulated from commercially available microbubble preparations. Diagnostic transthoracic ultrasound frequencies have resulted in acoustic activation (AA) predominately within myocardial infarct zones (IZ).

Objective

We hypothesized that the AA area following acute coronary ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) would selectively enhance the developing scar zone, and target bioeffects specifically to this region.

Methods

We administered intravenous PD in 36 rats and 20 pigs at various stages of myocardial scar formation (30 minutes, 1 day, and 7 days post I/R) to determine what effect infarct age had on the AA within the IZ. This was correlated with histology, myeloperoxidase activity, and tissue nitrite activity.

Results

The degree of AA within the IZ in rats was not associated with collagen content, neutrophil infiltration, or infarct age. AA within 24 hours of I/R was associated with increased nitric oxide utilization selectively within the IZ (P < .05 compared with remote zone). The spatial extent of AA in pigs correlated with infarct size only when performed before sacrifice at 7 days (r = .74, P < .01).

Conclusions

Acoustic activation of intravenous PD enhances the developing scar zone following I/R, and results in selective tissue nitric oxide utilization.
Technology paternalism: Development and validation of a measurement scale
Authors: Rochi Martin , Rauschnabel Philipp A. , Renner Karl‐Heinz , Ivens Björn S.
Published: March 2024

As technologies become smarter, they tend to protect their users, much like parents protect their children. However, caring too much about a user can lead to technology paternalism, a construct that is becoming increasingly relevant with the advent of smart technologies. Nonetheless, very little is known about what technology paternalism is or how it can be measured. The authors applied established procedures from scale development methodology followed by quantitative measurement to present and validate a three‐factor scale (limiting, overruling, and welfare). The approach offers first empirical evidence linking technology paternalism to associated concepts, showing that it correlates as expected with established constructs in the literature on technology acceptance. This study contributes to the literature by uncovering a construct of interest to a critical discussion of technology paternalism and by providing a measurement tool that can be used by researchers, policy makers, and managers.
A compact polarization independent stop band frequency‐selective surface for WLAN shielding
Authors: Natarajan Rajesh , Sivasamy Ramprabhu , Gunasekar Aarthi
Published: March 2024

This paper presents the design and prototype development of a compact frequency‐selective surface (FSS) for shielding WLAN signals. The FSS unit‐cell geometry is evolved by modifying the arms of the conventional crossed dipole element. The footprint of the unit cell is only 6 mm × 6 mm × 1.6 mm. The proposed FSS offers stop band characteristics at 5 GHz for both transverse electric (TE) and transverse magnetic (TM) modes. In addition, the FSS offers angular stability up to 60°. A prototype of the proposed FSS is fabricated and measured to validate its simulations. Measured bandwidth of the stop band is 410 MHz, referenced at −20 dB for both TE and TM modes. Equivalent circuit model of the FSS is derived and the results are compared with the simulations.
Age‐related differences in macromolecular resonances observed in ultra‐short‐TE STEAM MR spectra at 7T
Authors: Genovese Guglielmo , Terpstra Melissa , Filip Pavel , Mangia Silvia , McCarten J. Riley , Hemmy Laura S. , Marjańska Małgorzata
Published: March 2024

Purpose

To understand how macromolecular content varies in the human brain with age in a large cohort of healthy subjects.

Methods

In‐vivo 1H‐MR spectra were acquired using ultra‐short TE STEAM at 7T in the posterior cingulate cortex. Macromolecular content was studied in 147 datasets from a cohort ranging in age from 19 to 89 y. Three fitting approaches were used to evaluate the macromolecular content: (1) a macromolecular resonances model developed for this study; (2) LCModel‐simulated macromolecules; and (3) a combination of measured and LCModel‐simulated macromolecules. The effect of age on the macromolecular content was investigated by considering age both as a continuous variable (i.e., linear regressions) and as a categorical variable (i.e., multiple comparisons among sub‐groups obtained by stratifying data according to age by decade).

Results

While weak age‐related effects were observed for macromolecular peaks at ˜0.9 (MM09), ˜1.2 (MM12), and ˜1.4 (MM14) ppm, moderate to strong effects were observed for peaks at ˜1.7 (MM17), and ˜2.0 (MM20) ppm. Significantly higher MM17 and MM20 content started from 30 to 40 y of age, while for MM09, MM12, and MM14, significantly higher content started from 60 to 70 y of age.

Conclusions

Our findings provide insights into age‐related differences in macromolecular contents and strengthen the necessity of using age‐matched measured macromolecules during quantification.
Recent advances in biopolymer based electrospun nanomaterials for drug delivery systems
Authors: Tören Elçin , Buzgo Matej , Mazari Adnan Ahmed , Khan Muhammad Zaman
Published: March 2024

Drug delivery systems, including liposomes, gels, prodrugs, and so forth, are used to enhance the tissue benefit of a pharmaceutical drug or conventional substance at a specific diseased site with little toxicological impact. Nanotechnology can be a rapidly developing multidisciplinary science that enables the production of polymers at the manometer scale for different medical applications. The use of biopolymers in drug delivery systems provides compatibility, biodegradability and low immunogenicity biologically. Large‐scale and smaller‐than‐expected medication particles can be delivered using biopolymers such as silk fibroins, collagen, gelatine, and others that are easily formed into suspensions. These drug carrier systems are functional at improving drug delivery and can be used in intranasal, transdermal, dental, and ocular delivery systems. This study discusses the latest developments in drug delivery methods based on nanomaterials, mainly using biopolymers like proteins and polysaccharides.