bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical Evaluation of an Innovative Metal-Artifact-Reduction Algorithm in FD-CT Angiography in Cerebral Aneurysms Treated by Endovascular Coiling or Surgical Clipping
Authors: Eisenhut Felix , Schmidt Manuel Alexander , Kalik Alexander , Struffert Tobias , Feulner Julian , Schlaffer Sven-Martin , Manhart Michael , Doerfler Arnd , Lang Stefan
Published: May 2022

Treated cerebral aneurysms (IA) require follow-up imaging to ensure occlusion. Metal artifacts complicate radiologic assessment. Our aim was to evaluate an innovative metal-artifact-reduction (iMAR) algorithm for flat-detector computed tomography angiography (FD-CTA) regarding image quality (IQ) and detection of aneurysm residua/reperfusion in comparison to 2D digital subtraction angiography (DSA). Patients with IAs treated by endovascular coiling or clipping underwent both FD-CTA and DSA. FD-CTA datasets were postprocessed with/without iMAR algorithm (MAR+/MAR−). Evaluation of all FD-CTA and DSA datasets regarding qualitative (IQ, MAR) and quantitative (coil package diameter/CPD) parameters was performed. Aneurysm occlusion was assessed for each dataset and compared to DSA findings. In total, 40 IAs were analyzed (ncoiling = 24; nclipping = 16). All iMAR+ datasets demonstrated significantly better IQ (pIQ coiling < 0.0001; pIQ clipping < 0.0001). iMAR significantly reduced the metal-artifact burden but did not affect the CPD. iMAR significantly improved the detection of aneurysm residua/reperfusion with excellent agreement with DSA (naneurysm detection MAR+/MAR−/DSA = 22/1/26). The iMAR algorithm significantly improves IQ by effective reduction of metal artifacts in FD-CTA datasets. The proposed algorithm enables reliable detection of aneurysm residua/reperfusion with good agreement to DSA. Thus, iMAR can help to reduce the need for invasive follow-up in treated IAs.
Short-Term Traffic-Flow Forecasting Based on an Integrated Model Combining Bagging and Stacking Considering Weight Coefficient
Authors: Li Zhaohui , Wang Lin , Wang Deyao , Yin Ming , Huang Yujin
Published: May 2022

This work proposed an integrated model combining bagging and stacking considering the weight coefficient for short-time traffic-flow prediction, which incorporates vacation and peak time features, as well as occupancy and speed information, in order to improve prediction accuracy and accomplish deeper traffic flow data feature mining. To address the limitations of a single prediction model in traffic forecasting, a stacking model with ridge regression as the meta-learner is first established, then the stacking model is optimized from the perspective of the learner using the bagging model, and lastly the optimized learner is embedded into the stacking model as the new base learner to obtain the Ba-Stacking model. Finally, to address the Ba-Stacking model’s shortcomings in terms of low base learner utilization, the information structure of the base learners is modified by weighting the error coefficients while taking into account the model’s external features, resulting in a DW-Ba-Stacking model that can change the weights of the base learners to adjust the feature distribution and thus improve utilization. Using 76,896 data from the I5NB highway as the empirical study object, the DW-Ba-Stacking model is compared and assessed with the traditional model in this paper. The empirical results show that the DW-Ba-Stacking model has the highest prediction accuracy, demonstrating that the model is successful in predicting short-term traffic flows and can effectively solve traffic-congestion problems.
Error Level Analysis Technique for Identifying JPEG Block Unique Signature for Digital Forensic Analysis
Authors: Azhan Nor Amira Nor , Ikuesan Richard Adeyemi , Razak Shukor Abd , Kebande Victor R.
Published: May 2022

The popularity of unique image compression features of image files opens an interesting research analysis process, given that several digital forensics cases are related to diverse file types. Of interest has been fragmented file carving and recovery which forms a major aspect of digital forensics research on JPEG files. Whilst there exist several challenges, this paper focuses on the challenge of determining the co-existence of JPEG fragments within various file fragment types. Existing works have exhibited a high false-positive rate, therefore rendering the need for manual validation. This study develops a technique that can identify the unique signature of JPEG 8 × 8 blocks using the Error Level Analysis technique, implemented in MATLAB. The experimental result that was conducted with 21 images of JFIF format with 1008 blocks shows the efficacy of the proposed technique. Specifically, the initial results from the experiment show that JPEG 8 × 8 blocks have unique characteristics which can be leveraged for digital forensics. An investigator could, therefore, search for the unique characteristics to identify a JPEG fragment during a digital investigation process.
A Memristor-Based High-Resolution A/D Converter
Authors: Yang Le , Ding Zhixia
Published: May 2022

Based on the voltage threshold adaptive memristor (VTEAM) model, this paper proposes a circuit design of a memristor-based A/D converter, which can achieve high-resolution conversion by simple configuration. For this A/D converter, there are the input voltage stage and the reference voltage stage in one conversion. According to the memristance change in the two stages, the input analog voltage is converted as the corresponding digital value. In the input voltage stage, the memristance increases from the initial memristance. Meanwhile, the counter rises its value from zero to the maximum. Next, the memristance returns to the initial memristance in the reference voltage stage. At the same time, the counting value starts to increase from zero again. Then, the input analog voltage is mapped to the eventual counting value of the reference voltage stage. The simulations of the memristor-based A/D converter demonstrate that it has good conversion performance. The proposed memristor-based A/D converter not only has more brilliant performance than the CMOS A/D converter, but also has the advantages over existing memristor-based A/D converters of anti-interference ability and high resolution.
Environmental, Social, and Economic Aspects of the Green Economy in Polish Rural Areas—A Spatial Analysis
Authors: Jezierska-Thöle Aleksandra , Gwiaździńska-Goraj Marta , Dudzińska Małgorzata
Published: May 2022

The global climate, ecological, and energy crisis has increased the interest in the green economy (GE) concept that aims to resolve environmental problems while promoting economic growth, social stabilization, and creating favorable conditions for sustainable economic growth. The implementation of GE solutions requires an assessment system for evaluating the extent to which business operations are consistent with GE principles. In this study, the environmental, economic, and social dimensions of the quality of life were identified, and agricultural factors were considered to determine the progress in the implementation of GE principles. The correlation between the success of GE implementation and the utilization of environmental funding provided by the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) was analyzed. A composite GE index composed of 19 variables was developed for this purpose with the use of Hellwig’s taxonomic measure of development. The strength of the correlation between GE implementation and the utilization of green payments under the CAP was evaluated by calculating Pearson’s correlation coefficient. Polish rural areas were analyzed at the level of Local Administrative Units (LAU). The study revealed spatial variations in GE development, and it demonstrated that local projects financed from EU funds had a positive impact on the environment. However, the utilization of EU support schemes differs considerably across Polish regions. The analysis revealed that agri-environmental-climate measures (spending per ha) were most strongly correlated with the economic dimension of the quality of life. Southern Poland and suburban areas differed considerably from Eastern Poland where green payments were less effective in promoting GE development. The results of this study are useful for planning, land management, and the development of socioeconomic development strategies at the municipal, regional, and local level.
Control Strategies Applied to a Heat Transfer Loop of a Linear Fresnel Collector
Authors: Montenon Alaric Christian , Meligy Rowida
Published: May 2022

The modelling of Linear Fresnel Collectors (LFCs) is crucial in order to predict accurate performance for annual yields and to define proper commands to design the suitable controller. The ISO 9806 modelling, applied to thermal collectors, presents some gaps especially with concentration collectors including LFCs notably due to the factorisation of the incidence angle modifiers and the fact that they are considered symmetric around the south meridian. The present work details the use of two alternative modellings methodologies based on recorded experimental data on the solar system installed at the Cyprus Institute, in the outskirts of Nicosia, Cyprus. The first modelling is the RealTrackEff, which is an improved ISO9806 modelling, and the second is constructed using the CARNOT blockset in MATLAB/Simulink. Both models include all the elements of the heat transfer fluid loop, i.e., mineral oil, with a tank and a heat-exchanger. First, the open loop’s studies demonstrated that the root mean square on temperature is 1 °C with the RealTrackEff; 2.9 °C with the CARNOT and 6.3 °C with the ISO9806 in comparison to the experimental data. Then, a PID control is applied on the experimental values in order to estimate the impact on the outlet temperature on the absorber and on power generation. Results showed that the error on the estimation of the heat absorbed reaches 32%.
Decentralized Model-Predictive Control of a Coupled Wind Turbine and Diesel Engine Generator System
Authors: Shojaee Milad , Mohammadi Shakiba Fatemeh , Azizi S. Mohsen
Published: May 2022

It is highly critical that renewable energy-based power generation units provide continuous and high-quality electricity. This requirement is even more pronounced in standalone wind–diesel systems where the wind power is not always constant or available. Moreover, it is desired that the extracted power be maximized in such a way that less fuel is consumed from the diesel engine. This paper proposes a novel method to design decentralized model-predictive controllers to control the frequency and power of a single standalone generation system, which consists of a wind turbine subsystem mechanically coupled with a diesel engine generator subsystem. Two decentralized model-predictive controllers are designed to regulate the frequency and active power, while the mechanical coupling between the two subsystems is considered, and no communication links exist between the two controllers. Simulation results show that the proposed decentralized controllers outperform the benchmark decentralized linear-quadratic Gaussian (LQG) controllers in terms of eliminating the disturbances from the wind and load power changes. Furthermore, it is demonstrated that the proposed control strategy has an acceptable robust performance against the concurrent variations in all parameters of the system as compared to the LQG controllers.
Discovering the Unknown History of the Utilization of Pinus heldreichii in Wooden Structures by Means of Dendroarchaeology: A Case Study from Metsovo (Northern Greece)
Authors: Christopoulou Anastasia , Gmińska-Nowak Barbara , Tsakanika Eleftheria , Ważny Tomasz
Published: May 2022

(1) Background: Pinus heldreichii is a long-living tree subalpine species commonly used for climate reconstruction. Nevertheless, its potential for dendroarchaeology and dating of historical timber remains unknown. In Metsovo and in the surrounding area of Pindus National Park (Northern Greece) it is commonly used for the construction of buildings and wooden objects and artifacts. (2) Methods: We examined timber found in historical buildings within the study area and we tried to date it using local reference chronologies of Bosnian and Black pines. (3) Results: Bosnian pine chronologies can be used to date timber from historical buildings, while they can also be used as reference chronologies against Black pines, giving very high cross-dating values. Therefore, and since the macroscopic identification of the two species’ timber is impossible, the analysis of wood anatomy is necessary to distinguish the two species in the case of historical wood. (4) Conclusions: The current paper presents the first application of dendroarchaeology for Bosnian pine and highlights the potential of the species in studying cultural heritage and the human past.
Improvement of the Nutritional Quality of Psophocarpus tetragonolobus Tubers by Fermentation with Ruminal Crabtree-Negative Yeasts on the In Vitro Digestibility and Fermentation in Rumen Fluid
Authors: Suntara Chanon , Wanapat Metha , Chankaew Sompong , Khonkhaeng Benjamad , Supapong Chanadol , Chanjula Pin , Gunun Pongsatorn , Gunun Nirawan , Foiklang Suban , Phesatcha Kampanat , Cherdthong Anusorn
Published: May 2022

The purpose of this study was to determine how ruminal Crabtree-negative yeast affects the nutritional characteristics of winged bean (Psophocarpus tetragonolobus) tubers (WBT), in vitro gas and digestibility, and rumen fermentation. The experiment was carried out in a randomized complete design with a 5 × 2 (+1) factorial arrangement. Factor A determined the WBT products (a1 = dry WBT, a2 = fermented WBT without yeast in media solution, a3 = fermented WBT with Pichia kudriavzevii KKU20, a4 = fermented WBT with Candida tropicalis KKU20, and a5 = fermented WBT with Saccharomyces cerevisiae), whereas factor B determined the level of fermented WBT replacing cassava chips (b1 = WBT at 50% and b2 = 100% levels). The results of the experiment showed that the fermentation approach could increase the crude protein (CP) content of WBT by around 7% (p < 0.01). The WBT fermented with yeast lowered the number of aerobic bacteria during the fermentation process (p < 0.01). P. kudriazevii KKU20 yeast strain had a 17.3% higher final asymptotic gas volume (Vf) than the C. tropicalis KKU20. Crabtree-negative yeast had a higher in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD) than Crabtree-positive yeast after 12 h of incubation (p < 0.01). Fermented WBT with yeast had a higher IVDMD after 24 h of incubation than fermented WBT without yeast in the media solution (p < 0.05). The fermented WBT with C. tropicalis KKU20 enhanced propionic acid (C3) concentrations when cassava chips were replaced for half of all of the diet (C3 ranged from 26.0 to 26.4 mol/100 mol; p < 0.01). Furthermore, Crabtree-negative yeast isolated from the rumen stimulates rumen bacteria more effectively than Crabtree-positive yeast (p < 0.01). According to our findings, nutritional enrichment with yeast might increase the in vitro gas production and digestibility of WBT. The study also demonstrated that Crabtree-negative yeast has a promising lead in terms of improving rumen fermentation quality. However, further research is required before deciding on an effective approach for optimizing the potential of WBT as a feed source.
Nietzsche: Three Genealogies of Christianity
Authors: Forster Michael Neil
Published: May 2022

Nietzsche develops three important genealogies of central aspects of Christianity: one concerning a certain syncretism between Judaism and the cult of Dionysus; a second concerning a “slave revolt in morality”; and a third concerning doctrines about an otherworld (God, an afterlife, etc.). In each case, his genealogy appears implausible or even perverse at first sight, but on closer examination turns out to be very historically plausible, indeed correct.
Concussion-Associated Polygenic Profiles of Elite Male Rugby Athletes
Authors: Antrobus Mark R. , Brazier Jon , Callus Peter C. , Herbert Adam J. , Stebbings Georgina K. , Khanal Praval , Day Stephen H. , Kilduff Liam P. , Bennett Mark A. , Erskine Robert M. , Raleigh Stuart M. , Collins Malcolm , Pitsiladis Yannis P. , Heffernan Shane M. , Williams Alun G.
Published: May 2022

Due to the high-velocity collision-based nature of elite rugby league and union, the risk of sustaining a concussion is high. Occurrence of and outcomes following a concussion are probably affected by the interaction of multiple genes in a polygenic manner. This study investigated whether suspected concussion-associated polygenic profiles of elite rugby athletes differed from non-athletes and between rugby union forwards and backs. We hypothesised that a total genotype score (TGS) using eight concussion-associated polymorphisms would be higher in elite rugby athletes than non-athletes, indicating selection for protection against incurring or suffering prolonged effects of, concussion in the relatively high-risk environment of competitive rugby. In addition, multifactor dimensionality reduction was used to identify genetic interactions. Contrary to our hypothesis, TGS did not differ between elite rugby athletes and non-athletes (p ≥ 0.065), nor between rugby union forwards and backs (p = 0.668). Accordingly, the TGS could not discriminate between elite rugby athletes and non-athletes (AUC ~0.5), suggesting that, for the eight polymorphisms investigated, elite rugby athletes do not have a more ‘preferable’ concussion-associated polygenic profile than non-athletes. However, the COMT (rs4680) and MAPT (rs10445337) GC allele combination was more common in rugby athletes (31.7%; p < 0.001) and rugby union athletes (31.8%; p < 0.001) than non-athletes (24.5%). Our results thus suggest a genetic interaction between COMT (rs4680) and MAPT (rs10445337) assists rugby athletes in achieving elite status. These findings need exploration vis-à-vis sport-related concussion injury data and could have implications for the management of inter-individual differences in concussion risk.
Metabolite and Gene Expression Analysis Underlying Temporal and Spatial Accumulation of Pentacyclic Triterpenoids in Jujube
Authors: Wen Cuiping , Zhang Zhong , Shi Qianqian , Yue Rongrong , Li Xingang
Published: May 2022

Jujube (Ziziphus jujuba Mill.) has attracted increasing attention because of its fruits’ high nutritional and medicinal value, which produce pentacyclic triterpenoids with valuable pharmacological activities beneficial to human health. However, the dynamic accumulation and metabolism pathway of triterpenoids remain unknown in jujube. Here, we performed metabolite assays of triterpenoids and expression analysis of genes involved in the corresponding metabolic processes on cultivated jujube (Z. jujuba cv. Junzao) and one type of wild jujube (Z. jujuba var. spinosa cv. Qingjiansuanzao). Our results showed that the triterpenoids accumulate predominantly in young leaves, annual stems, buds, and white-mature and beginning red stage fruit. Besides, the total triterpenoid content, ceanothic acid, oleanonic acid, and 3-ketoursolic acid were higher in ‘Qingjiansuanzao’ than in ‘Junzao’. Moreover, we found 23 genes involved in terpenoids metabolism were expressed in all organs, and the ZjSQS1, ZjCYP450/1, ZjCYP450/3, ZjOSC1, ZjFPS, and ZjAACT2 gene expression patterns were consistent with metabolites accumulation during fruit development. In addition, 100 μM MeJA induced ZjSQS1, ZjFPS, and ZjHMGR3 expression in leaves and enhanced triterpenoids accumulation. These findings will help understand the unique metabolism of terpenoids and will benefit further utilization and breeding of jujube as both edible fruit and functional food.
Simulating a Hockey Hub COVID-19 Mass Vaccination Facility
Authors: Asgary Ali , Blue Hudson , Cronemberger Felippe , Ni Matthew
Published: May 2022

Mass vaccination is proving to be the most effective method of disease control, and several methods have been developed for the operation of mass vaccination clinics to administer vaccines safely and quickly. One such method is known as the hockey hub model, a relatively new method that involves isolating vaccine recipients in individual cubicles for the entire duration of the vaccination process. Healthcare staff move between the cubicles and administer vaccines. This allows for faster vaccine delivery and less recipient contact. In this paper we present a simulation tool which has been created to model the operation of a hockey hub clinic. This tool was developed using AnyLogic and simulates the process of individuals moving through a hockey hub vaccination clinic. To demonstrate this model, we simulate six scenarios comprising three different arrival rates with and without physical distancing. Findings demonstrate that the hockey hub method of vaccination clinic can function at a large capacity with minimal impact on wait times.
A Mixed-Methods Study on Use of Different Tobacco Products among Younger and Older Adults with Lower and Higher Levels of Nicotine Exposure in California in 2019–2020
Authors: Harvanko Arit , Koester Kimberly A. , Helen Gideon St. , Olson Sarah , Kim Hyunjin Cindy , Ling Pamela M.
Published: May 2022

An increasing number of tobacco products are entering the market, offering a variety of options to attain desired nicotine intake. However, little is known about the effect of this diverse marketplace on the experiences and nicotine exposure among tobacco users. A mixed-methods study examined experiences with tobacco products among individuals with relatively lower or higher levels of biomarkers of nicotine exposure. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with younger and older adults to examine tobacco use behaviors, addiction to tobacco products, and nicotine effects. Younger and older adults provided similar narratives about addiction and nicotine effects, which were similar across age groups, product types (i.e., ENDS, combustible cigarettes, or oral tobacco products), and having lower or higher nicotine exposure. Some individuals with higher nicotine exposure who switched from combustible cigarettes to another product (e.g., ENDS) found similar or greater access and perceived addiction to nicotine. Adults with higher and lower levels of nicotine exposure provided narratives consistent with features of nicotine addiction, regardless of age and products used. Availability of multiple tobacco products may be associated with greater access and exposure to nicotine. Addiction may occur at low levels of use and with non-cigarette products.
Inspiratory Muscle Training in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) as Part of a Respiratory Rehabilitation Program Implementation of Mechanical Devices: A Systematic Review
Authors: Vázquez-Gandullo Eva , Hidalgo-Molina Antonio , Montoro-Ballesteros Francisca , Morales-González María , Muñoz-Ramírez Isabel , Arnedillo-Muñoz Aurelio
Published: May 2022

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a complex and heterogeneous disease, with pulmonary and extrapulmonary manifestations, which leads to the need to personalize the assessment and treatment of these patients. The latest updates of national and international guidelines for the management of COPD reveal the importance of respiratory rehabilitation (RR) and its role in improving symptoms, quality of life, and psychosocial sphere of patients. Within RR, the inspiratory muscle training (IMT) has received special interest, showing benefits in maximum inspiratory pressure, perception of well-being, and health status in patients with chronic heart disease, respiratory diseases, and dyspnea during exercise. The aim of this review is to assess the efficacy of IMT in COPD patients through the use of inspiratory muscle training devices, compared with respiratory rehabilitation programs without inspiratory muscle training. In the last years, many mechanical devices focused on inspiratory muscle training have been developed, some of them, such as the AirOFit PRO™, PowerBreath®, or FeelBreathe®, have shown clear benefits. The active search for candidate patients to undergo the RR program with inspiratory muscle training using this type of device in COPD patients represents an advance in the treatment of this disease, with direct benefits on the quality of life of the patients. In this article, we review the available evidence on IMT in these patients and describe the different devices used for it.
Navigating Voice, Vocabulary and Silence: Developing Critical Consciousness in a Photovoice Project with (Un)Paid Care Workers in Long-Term Care
Authors: Duijs Saskia Elise , Abma Tineke , Schrijver Janine , Bourik Zohra , Abena-Jaspers Yvonne , Jhingoeri Usha , Plak Olivia , Senoussi Naziha , Verdonk Petra
Published: May 2022

Photovoice is a widely used approach for community participation in health promotion and health promotion research. However, its popularity has a flip-side. Scholars raise concerns that photovoice drifts away from its emancipatory roots, neglecting photovoice’s aim to develop critical consciousness together with communities. Our four-year photovoice project aimed to unravel how the health of (un)paid care workers was shaped at the intersection of gender, class and race. This article springs from first, second and third-person inquiry within our research team of (un)paid care workers, academic researchers and a photographer. We observed that critical consciousness emerged from an iterative process between silence, voice and vocabulary. We learned that photovoice scholars need to be sensitive to silence in photovoice projects, as silence can be the starting point for finding voice, but also a result of silencing acts. Social movements and critical theories, such as intersectionality, provide a vocabulary for participants to voice their critical perspectives to change agents and to support collective action. We discuss our experiences using Frickers’ concept of ‘epistemic justice’, arguing that critical consciousness not only requires that communities are acknowledged as reliable knowers, but that they need access to interpretative tropes to voice their personal experiences as structural.
Exploring Hepatocellular Carcinoma Mortality Using Weighted Regression Estimation for the Cohort Effect in Taiwan from 1976 to 2015
Authors: Tzeng I-Shiang , Chen Jiann-Hwa
Published: May 2022

To estimate the cohort effects that remove the efficacy of age and the period in the age-period statistics of a contingency table, the multiphase method is put forward. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignancies of the liver. Understanding the predictive effects of age, period, and cohort on HCC mortality trends may help to estimate the future HCC burden, identify etiological factors, and advise public health prevention programs. Estimates of future HCC mortality and the associated health burden were forecast using an age–period–cohort (APC) model of analysis. By running a regression of residuals that were isolated from the median polish stage of cohort classification, the study controlled for HCC mortality confounding variables and interpreted time trends in HCC rates. The literature shows that the weighted mean estimation derived from the confidence interval (CI) is relatively restricted (compared to the equal-weighted evaluation). This study aimed to illustrate the effects of age, period, and cohort on the incidence and mortality rates, along with the weight equivalent to the segment of death number caused by HCC in each cohort. The objective of that work was to evaluate the proposed method for appraising cohort effects within the age-period data of contingency tables. The weighted mean estimate from the regression model was found to be robust and thus warrants consideration in forecasting future HCC mortality trends. The final phase was factored in to calculate the magnitude of cohort effects. In conclusion, owing to the relatively constricted CI and small degree of uncertainty, the weighted mean estimates can be used for projections based on simple linear extrapolation.
Enabling Spaces; Rethinking Materiality and the Invitational Character of Institutional Environments
Authors: Nielsen Emma , Pedersen Sofie
Published: May 2022

This article explores how physical surroundings may be integrated as a supportive measure in social work efforts. Drawing on ecological psychology and the concept of liminality, the article presents a case study of Kofoed’s School (KS), a social institution in Copenhagen, Denmark. In recent years, KS has undergone a major renovation, opening up previously sheltered workshops to the public. By creating liminal spaces of possibility, where students can take up “both/and” positions allowing for a multitude of ways to participate, students are experiencing increased support and inclusion, which contributes to a growing feeling of citizenship and well-being. Drawing on participant observations and interviews with students, staff members, as well as customers at the school’s shops, we explore how the architectural layout may facilitate students’ flexible and fluid movements between more or less sheltered positions and further discuss how this flexibility may become supportive for their personal development and well-being. We propose to think of such spaces of possibility as enabling spaces, where inclusive architecture contributes to the creation of new possibilities for participation for people in marginalized life positions. This, we suggest, holds a great potential for social work efforts for people experiencing complex social vulnerability.
Towards a Holistic Model Explaining Hearing Protection Device Use among Workers
Authors: Doutres Olivier , Terroir Jonathan , Jolly Caroline , Gauvin Chantal , Martin Laurence , Negrini Alessia
Published: May 2022

Offering hearing protection devices (HPDs) to workers exposed to hazardous noise is a noise control strategy often used to prevent noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL). However, HPDs are used incorrectly and inconsistently, which explains their limited efficiency. Numerous models based on social cognition theories identify the significant factors associated with inconsistent HPD use and aim to improve HPD training programs and to increase HPD use. However, these models do not detail (dis)comfort aspects originating from complex interactions between characteristics of the triad “environment/person/HPD” while these aspects are known to largely influence HPD (mis)use. This paper proposes a holistic model explaining HPD (mis)use, based on the integration of a comfort model adapted to HPDs into an existing behavioral model already developed for HPDs. The model also takes into account the temporal dimension, which makes it possible to capture the scope of change in HPD-related health behaviors. This holistic description of HPD use could be used as a tool for stakeholders involved in HPD use to effectively prevent NIHL among workers.
At Home and on the Brink: U.S. Parents’ Mental Health during COVID-19
Authors: Moreland-Russell Sarah , Jabbari Jason , Ferris Dan , Roll Stephen
Published: May 2022

Though the COVID-19 pandemic required significant changes and adaptations for most Americans, parents faced acute challenges as they had to navigate rapidly changing schooling and child care policies requiring their children to spend more time at home. This study examines the effects of COVID-19 school and workplace policies as well as environmental and economic characteristics on parental mental health, worry, hopelessness, and anxiety. Using data from four waves of the Socio-Economic Impacts of COVID-19 Survey and regression analysis, we explore associations between parents’ mental health, worry, hopelessness, and anxiety and school learning environment, child grade and learning disability, employment characteristics, and sociodemographic factors. We find that having a child attend a private school or school with above average instructional quality was associated with better mental health of parents. Hybrid schooling options offering both in-person and online learning was associated with poor parental mental health, as was working from home. Being female or experiencing job or income loss were associated with worse mental health while having older children, a bachelor’s degree, or high income were associated with better mental health. Results can help inform school and workplace family supports as well as opportunities to reduce mental health strains at home from various policy options.
Standard Values and Concurrent Validity of a Newly Developed Occlusal Force-Measuring Device among Community-Dwelling Older Adults: The Otassha Study
Authors: Iwasaki Masanori , Maeda Ichinosuke , Kokubo Yota , Tanaka Yoshitomo , Ueno Tetsuji , Ohara Yuki , Motokawa Keiko , Hayakawa Misato , Shirobe Maki , Edahiro Ayako , Kawai Hisashi , Fujiwara Yoshinori , Ihara Kazushige , Kim Hunkyung , Watanabe Yutaka , Obuchi Shuichi , Hirano Hirohiko
Published: May 2022

Recently, an occlusal force-measuring device with a capacitive-type pressure-mapping sensor (OFMD-CPS) was developed. We aimed to establish age- and sex-specific standard values for OFMD-CPS-measured occlusal force (OF) and to assess the concurrent validity of the OFMD against another OF measuring system with a pressure-sensitive sheet (Dental Prescale II). Using data from a population-based study, we calculated the OFMD-CPS-measured OF means and deciles in 5-year age groups for each sex. The OFMD-CPS-measured OF was validated against the Dental Prescale II-measured OF with Spearman correlation coefficients. Furthermore, we calculated the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) against the preexisting Dental Prescale II-measured OF cutoff value of 350 N. In total, 596 individuals (236 men and 360 women) with a mean (standard deviation (SD)) age of 73.7 (6.7) years were included in the analyses. The mean (SD) OFMD-CPS-measured OFs were 581.6 (284.6) N in men and 446.9 (209.9) N in women. There was a strong positive correlation (Spearman’s Rho = 0.73) between OFMD-CPS-measured and Dental Prescale II-measured OF. The diagnostic accuracy of the OFMD-CPS-measured OF for the Dental Prescale II-measured OF cutoff value was high (AUC = 0.88). In conclusion, we demonstrated standard values and concurrent validity of OFMD-CPS-measured OF in community-dwelling older adults.
A New Urban Space Analysis Method Based on Space Syntax and Geographic Information System Using Multisource Data
Authors: Xing Zhaolian , Guo Weimin
Published: May 2022

With large-scale urban demolition, the spatial pattern of the urban area in many cities has been destroyed, leading to the loss of urban regional identity; therefore, these urban spaces need to be urgently studied and protected. Previous studies on the spatial pattern of urban areas focused on spatial morphology or urban texture. However, due to difficulties in obtaining field survey data, such studies cannot comprehensively analyze the space; thus, the proposed conservation strategies are also more one-sided. In order to study the urban space more scientifically and systematically, and to propose a more operable spatial conservation strategy, this paper conducts a new urban space analysis method based on space syntax and the geographic information system using multisource data. With the help of software such as Depthmap and ArcGIS, as well as theories and methods such as space syntax and regression analysis, this article conducted a visual and quantitative analysis of the spatial information data such as integration of urban road networks, building height, architectural style, points of interest, number of lanes, and maximum road speed. Taking the old city of Wuxi as an example, the method’s feasibility was verified. The regression model analysis revealed that, when the integration of the area was higher, the buildings distributed around were multilane, fast lane, modern buildings, taller buildings, commercial buildings, and vice versa, which gives a scientific basis for the proposed strategy of creating regional characteristics of urban space. This new analysis method of urban space is of great significance for the study of urban problems, the exploration of urban characteristics, and the proposal of urban strategies.
The RpTOE1-RpFT Module Is Involved in Rejuvenation during Root-Based Vegetative Propagation in Robinia pseudoacacia
Authors: Zhang Zijie , Liu Jie , Cao Sen , Guo Qi , Sun Yuhan , Niu Dongsheng , Long Cui , Fan Yingming , Li Yun
Published: May 2022

Vegetative propagation is an important method of reproduction and rejuvenation in horticulture and forestry plants with a long lifespan. Although substantial juvenile clones have been obtained through the vegetative propagation of ornamental plants, the molecular factors that regulate rejuvenation during vegetative propagation are largely unknown. Here, root sprouting and root cutting of Robinia pseudoacacia were used as two vegetative propagation methods. From two consecutive years of transcriptome data from rejuvenated seedlings and mature trees, one gene module and one miRNA module were found to be specifically associated with rejuvenation during vegetative propagation through weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA). In the gene module, a transcription factor-encoding gene showed high expression during vegetative propagation, and it was subsequently named RpTOE1 through homology analysis. Heterologous overexpression of RpTOE1 in wild-type Arabidopsis and toe1 toe2 double mutants prolonged the juvenile phase. The qRT-PCR results predicted RpFT to be a downstream gene that was regulated by RpTOE1. Further investigation of the protein-DNA interactions using yeast one-hybrid, electrophoretic mobility shift, and dual luciferase reporter assays confirmed that RpTOE1 negatively regulated RpFT by binding directly to the TOE binding site (TBS)-like motif on its promoter. On the basis of these results, we showed that the high expression of RpTOE1 during vegetative propagation and its inhibition of RpFT played a key role in the phase reversal of R. pseudoacacia.
Suppression of the Proliferation of Huh7 Hepatoma Cells Involving the Downregulation of Mutant p53 Protein and Inactivation of the STAT 3 Pathway with Ailanthoidol
Authors: Tseng Tsui-Hwa , Wang Chau-Jong , Lee Yean-Jang , Shao Yi-Chia , Shen Chien-Heng , Lee Ko-Chao , Tung Shui-Yi , Kuo Hsing-Chun
Published: May 2022

Ailanthoidol (ATD) has been isolated from the barks of Zanthoxylum ailanthoides and displays anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiadipogenic, and antitumor promotion activities. Recently, we found that ATD suppressed TGF-β1-induced migration and invasion of HepG2 cells. In this report, we found that ATD exhibited more potent cytotoxicity in Huh7 hepatoma cells (mutant p53: Y220C) than in HepG2 cells (wild-type p53). A trypan blue dye exclusion assay and colony assay showed ATD inhibited the growth of Huh7 cells. ATD also induced G1 arrest and reduced the expression of cyclin D1 and CDK2. Flow cytometry analysis with Annexin-V/PI staining demonstrated that ATD induced significant apoptosis in Huh7 cells. Moreover, ATD increased the expression of cleaved PARP and Bax and decreased the expression of procaspase 3/8 and Bcl-xL/Bcl-2. In addition, ATD decreased the expression of mutant p53 protein (mutp53), which is associated with cell proliferation with the exploration of p53 siRNA transfection. Furthermore, ATD suppressed the phosphorylation of the signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) and the expression of mevalonate kinase (MVK). Consistent with ATD, the administration of S3I201 (STAT 3 inhibitor) reduced the expression of Bcl-2/Bcl-xL, cyclin D1, mutp53, and MVK. These results demonstrated ATD’s selectivity against mutp53 hepatoma cells involving the downregulation of mutp53 and inactivation of STAT3.
Drug Repositioning for Fabry Disease: Acetylsalicylic Acid Potentiates the Stabilization of Lysosomal Alpha-Galactosidase by Pharmacological Chaperones
Authors: Monticelli Maria , Liguori Ludovica , Allocca Mariateresa , Bosso Andrea , Andreotti Giuseppina , Lukas Jan , Monti Maria Chiara , Morretta Elva , Cubellis Maria Vittoria , Hay Mele Bruno
Published: May 2022

Fabry disease is caused by a deficiency of lysosomal alpha galactosidase and has a very large genotypic and phenotypic spectrum. Some patients who carry hypomorphic mutations can benefit from oral therapy with a pharmacological chaperone. The drug requires a very precise regimen because it is a reversible inhibitor of alpha-galactosidase. We looked for molecules that can potentiate this pharmacological chaperone, among drugs that have already been approved for other diseases. We tested candidate molecules in fibroblasts derived from a patient carrying a large deletion in the gene GLA, which were stably transfected with a plasmid expressing hypomorphic mutants. In our cell model, three drugs were able to potentiate the action of the pharmacological chaperone. We focused our attention on one of them, acetylsalicylic acid. We expect that acetylsalicylic acid can be used in synergy with the Fabry disease pharmacological chaperone and prolong its stabilizing effect on alpha-galactosidase.
Proline Oxidation Supports Mitochondrial ATP Production When Complex I Is Inhibited
Authors: Pallag Gergely , Nazarian Sara , Ravasz Dora , Bui David , Komlódi Timea , Doerrier Carolina , Gnaiger Erich , Seyfried Thomas N. , Chinopoulos Christos
Published: May 2022

The oxidation of proline to pyrroline-5-carboxylate (P5C) leads to the transfer of electrons to ubiquinone in mitochondria that express proline dehydrogenase (ProDH). This electron transfer supports Complexes CIII and CIV, thus generating the protonmotive force. Further catabolism of P5C forms glutamate, which fuels the citric acid cycle that yields the reducing equivalents that sustain oxidative phosphorylation. However, P5C and glutamate catabolism depend on CI activity due to NAD+ requirements. NextGen-O2k (Oroboros Instruments) was used to measure proline oxidation in isolated mitochondria of various mouse tissues. Simultaneous measurements of oxygen consumption, membrane potential, NADH, and the ubiquinone redox state were correlated to ProDH activity and F1FO-ATPase directionality. Proline catabolism generated a sufficiently high membrane potential that was able to maintain the F1FO-ATPase operation in the forward mode. This was observed in CI-inhibited mouse liver and kidney mitochondria that exhibited high levels of proline oxidation and ProDH activity. This action was not observed under anoxia or when either CIII or CIV were inhibited. The duroquinone fueling of CIII and CIV partially reproduced the effects of proline. Excess glutamate, however, could not reproduce the proline effect, suggesting that processes upstream of the glutamate conversion from proline were involved. The ProDH inhibitors tetrahydro-2-furoic acid and, to a lesser extent, S-5-oxo-2-tetrahydrofurancarboxylic acid abolished all proline effects. The data show that ProDH-directed proline catabolism could generate sufficient CIII and CIV proton pumping, thus supporting ATP production by the F1FO-ATPase even under CI inhibition.
SARS-CoV-2 Infection Dysregulates Cilia and Basal Cell Homeostasis in the Respiratory Epithelium of Hamsters
Authors: Schreiner Tom , Allnoch Lisa , Beythien Georg , Marek Katarzyna , Becker Kathrin , Schaudien Dirk , Stanelle-Bertram Stephanie , Schaumburg Berfin , Mounogou Kouassi Nancy , Beck Sebastian , Zickler Martin , Gabriel Gülsah , Baumgärtner Wolfgang , Armando Federico , Ciurkiewicz Malgorzata
Published: May 2022

Similar to many other respiratory viruses, SARS-CoV-2 targets the ciliated cells of the respiratory epithelium and compromises mucociliary clearance, thereby facilitating spread to the lungs and paving the way for secondary infections. A detailed understanding of mechanism involved in ciliary loss and subsequent regeneration is crucial to assess the possible long-term consequences of COVID-19. The aim of this study was to characterize the sequence of histological and ultrastructural changes observed in the ciliated epithelium during and after SARS-CoV-2 infection in the golden Syrian hamster model. We show that acute infection induces a severe, transient loss of cilia, which is, at least in part, caused by cilia internalization. Internalized cilia colocalize with membrane invaginations, facilitating virus entry into the cell. Infection also results in a progressive decline in cells expressing the regulator of ciliogenesis FOXJ1, which persists beyond virus clearance and the termination of inflammatory changes. Ciliary loss triggers the mobilization of p73+ and CK14+ basal cells, which ceases after regeneration of the cilia. Although ciliation is restored after two weeks despite the lack of FOXJ1, an increased frequency of cilia with ultrastructural alterations indicative of secondary ciliary dyskinesia is observed. In summary, the work provides new insights into SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis and expands our understanding of virally induced damage to defense mechanisms in the conducting airways.
Angiotensin II Promotes SARS-CoV-2 Infection via Upregulation of ACE2 in Human Bronchial Cells
Authors: Caputo Ilaria , Caroccia Brasilina , Frasson Ilaria , Poggio Elena , Zamberlan Stefania , Morpurgo Margherita , Seccia Teresa M. , Calì Tito , Brini Marisa , Richter Sara N. , Rossi Gian Paolo
Published: May 2022

Blockers of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) have been reported to increase the angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE)2, the cellular receptor of SARS-CoV-2, and thus the risk and course of COVID-19. Therefore, we investigated if angiotensin (Ang) II and RAS blockers affected ACE2 expression and SARS-CoV-2 infectivity in human epithelial bronchial Calu-3 cells. By infectivity and spike-mediated cell–cell fusion assays, we showed that Ang II acting on the angiotensin type 1 receptor markedly increased ACE2 at mRNA and protein levels, resulting in enhanced SARS-CoV-2 cell entry. These effects were abolished by irbesartan and not affected by the blockade of ACE-1-mediated Ang II formation with ramipril, and of ACE2- mediated Ang II conversion into Ang 1-7 with MLN-4760. Thus, enhanced Ang II production in patients with an activated RAS might expose to a greater spread of COVID-19 infection in lung cells. The protective action of Angiotensin type 1 receptor antagonists (ARBs) documented in these studies provides a mechanistic explanation for the lack of worse outcomes in high-risk COVID-19 patients on RAS blockers.
Bracket Transfer Accuracy with the Indirect Bonding Technique—A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Sabbagh Hisham , Khazaei Yeganeh , Baumert Uwe , Hoffmann Lea , Wichelhaus Andrea , Janjic Rankovic Mila
Published: May 2022

Purpose: To investigate the bracket transfer accuracy of the indirect bonding technique (IDB). Methods: Systematic search of the literature was conducted in PubMed MEDLINE, Web of Science, Embase, and Scopus through November 2021. Selection Criteria: In vivo and ex vivo studies investigating bracket transfer accuracy by comparing the planned and achieved bracket positions using the IDB technique were considered. Information concerning patients, samples, and applied methodology was collected. Measured mean transfer errors (MTE) for angular and linear directions were extracted. Risk of bias (RoB) in the studies was assessed using a tailored RoB tool. Meta-analysis of ex vivo studies was performed for overall linear and angular bracket transfer accuracy and for subgroup analyses by type of tray, tooth groups, jaw-related, side-related, and by assessment method. Results: A total of 16 studies met the eligibility criteria for this systematic review. The overall linear mean transfer errors (MTE) in mesiodistal, vertical and buccolingual direction were 0.08 mm (95% CI 0.05; 0.10), 0.09 mm (0.06; 0.11), 0.14 mm (0.10; 0.17), respectively. The overall angular mean transfer errors (MTE) regarding angulation, rotation, torque were 1.13° (0.75; 1.52), 0.93° (0.49; 1.37), and 1.11° (0.68; 1.53), respectively. Silicone trays showed the highest accuracy, followed by vacuum-formed trays and 3D printed trays. Subgroup analyses between tooth groups, right and left sides, and upper and lower jaw showed minor differences. Conclusions and implications: The overall accuracy of the indirect bonding technique can be considered clinically acceptable. Future studies should address the validation of the accuracy assessment methods used.