bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative effectiveness of clozapine and non-clozapine atypical antipsychotics provided by the Brazilian National Health System in adults with schizophrenia
Authors: Vieira Júlio César Menezes , Reis Edna Afonso , Guerra Augusto Afonso , Oliveira Helian Nunes de , Ruas Cristina Mariano
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Currently, 21 million people live with the disease, mostly in low to middle-income countries. We aimed to assess the survival of patients with schizophrenia using clozapine compared with non-clozapine atypical antipsychotics provided by the Brazilian National Health System using real-world data.

Materials and methods

This is an open retrospective cohort study of patients diagnosed with schizophrenia to whom atypical antipsychotics were dispensed by the Brazilian National Health System between 2000 and 2015, based on deterministic-probabilistic pairing of administrative data records. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to estimate the cumulative probability of survival and the Cox proportional hazards model was adjusted to assess the risk factors for survival via the hazard ratio (HR).

Result

Participants were 375,352 adults with schizophrenia, with an overall survival rate of 76.0% (95%CI 75.0–76.0) at the end of the cohort. Multivariate analysis indicated a greater risk of death for men (HR=1.30; 95%CI 1.27–1.32), older adults (HR=17.05; 95%CI 16.52–17.60), and in the Southeast region of Brazil (HR=1.20; 95%CI 1.17–1.23). Patients who used non-clozapine atypical antipsychotics had a 21% greater risk of death when compared to those taking clozapine (HR=1.21; 95%CI 1.14–1.29). Additionally, a history of hospitalization for pneumonia (HR=2.17; 95%CI 2.11–2.23) was the main clinical variable associated with increased risk of death, followed by hospitalization for lung cancer (HR=1.82; 95%CI 1.58–2.08), cardiovascular diseases (HR=1.44; 95%CI 1.40–1.49) and any type of neoplasia (HR=1.29; 95%CI 1.19–1.40).

Discussion

This is the first published Brazilian cohort study that evaluated survival in people with schizophrenia, highlighting the impact of atypical antipsychotics. In this real-world analysis, the use of clozapine had a protective effect on survival when compared to olanzapine, risperidone, quetiapine, and ziprasidone.
Study on the relationship between body mass index and blood pressure indices in children aged 7–17 during COVID-19
Authors: Mao SuJie , Qian GuoPing , Xiao KaiWen , Xu Hong , Zhou Hao , Guo XiuJin
Published: June 2024

Background

To explore the relationship between body mass index (BMI), age, sex, and blood pressure (systolic blood pressure, SBP; diastolic blood pressure, DBP) in children during COVID-19, providing reference for the prevention and screening of hypertension in children.

Methods

This study adopted a large-scale cross-sectional design to investigate the association between BMI and blood pressure in 7-17-year-old students in City N, China, during COVID-19. Thirty-six primary and secondary schools in City N were sampled using a stratified cluster sampling method. A total of 11,433 students aged 7–17 years in City N, China, were selected for blood pressure (Diastolic blood pressure, DBP, Systolic blood pressure, SBP), height, and weight, Resting heart rate (RHR), chest circumference, measurements, and the study was written using the STROBE checklist. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS 26.0, calculating the mean and standard deviation of BMI and blood pressure for male and female students in different age groups. Regression analysis was employed to explore the impact of BMI, age, and sex on SBP and DBP, and predictive models were established. The model fit was evaluated using the model R2.

Results

The study included 11,287 primary and secondary school students, comprising 5,649 boys and 5,638 girls. It was found that with increasing age, BMI and blood pressure of boys and girls generally increased. There were significant differences in blood pressure levels between boys and girls in different age groups. In regression models, LC, Age, BMI, and chest circumference show significant positive linear relationships with SBP and DBP in adolescents, while RHR exhibits a negative linear relationship with SBP. These factors were individually incorporated into a stratified regression model, significantly enhancing the model’s explanatory power. After including factors such as Age, Gender, and BMI, the adjusted R2 value showed a significant improvement, with Age and BMI identified as key predictive factors for SBP and DBP. The robustness and predictive accuracy of the model were further examined through K-fold cross-validation and independent sample validation methods. The validation results indicate that the model has a high accuracy and explanatory power in predicting blood pressure in children of different weight levels, especially among obese children, where the prediction accuracy is highest.

Conclusion

During COVID-19, age, sex, and BMI significantly influence blood pressure in children aged 7–17 years, and predictive models for SBP and DBP were established. This model helps predict blood pressure in children and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Confirmation of factors such as sex, age, and BMI provide a basis for personalized health plans for children, especially during large-scale infectious diseases, providing guidance for addressing health challenges and promoting the health and well-being of children.
Efficacy of auxetic lattice structured shoe sole in advancing footwear comfort—From the perspective of plantar pressure and contact area
Authors: Zhang Jifa , Lu Shizhu , Yang Yadie , Liu Yiwen , Guo Yuqing , Wang Hongrui
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Designing footwear for comfort is vital for preventing foot injuries and promoting foot health. This study explores the impact of auxetic structured shoe soles on plantar biomechanics and comfort, motivated by the integration of 3D printing in footwear production and the superior mechanical properties of auxetic designs. The shoe sole designs proposed in this study are based on a three-dimensional re-entrant auxetic lattice structure, orthogonally composed of re-entrant hexagonal honeycombs with internal angles less than 90 degrees. Materials fabricated using this lattice structure exhibit the characteristic of a negative Poisson's ratio, displaying lateral expansion under tension and densification under compression.

Methods

The study conducted a comparative experiment among three different lattice structured (auxetic 60°, auxetic 75° and non-auxetic 90°) thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) shoe soles and conventional polyurethane (PU) shoe sole through pedobarographic measurements and comfort rating under walking and running conditions. The study obtained peak plantar pressures (PPPs) and contact area across seven plantar regions of each shoe sole and analyzed the correlation between these biomechanical parameters and subjective comfort.

Results

Compared to non-auxetic shoe soles, auxetic structured shoe soles reduced PPPs across various foot regions and increased contact area. The Auxetic 60°, which had the highest comfort ratings, significantly lowered peak pressures and increased contact area compared to PU shoe sole. Correlation analysis showed that peak pressures in specific foot regions (hallux, second metatarsal head, and hindfoot when walking; second metatarsal head, third to fifth metatarsal head, midfoot, and hindfoot when running) were related to comfort. Furthermore, the contact area in all foot regions was significantly associated with comfort, regardless of the motion states.

Conclusion

The pressure-relief performance and conformability of the auxetic lattice structure in the shoe sole contribute to enhancing footwear comfort. The insights provided guide designers in developing footwear focused on foot health and comfort using auxetic structures.
Integration between constrained optimization and deep networks: a survey
Authors: Bizzarri Alice , Fraccaroli Michele , Lamma Evelina , Riguzzi Fabrizio
Published: June 2024

Integration between constrained optimization and deep networks has garnered significant interest from both research and industrial laboratories. Optimization techniques can be employed to optimize the choice of network structure based not only on loss and accuracy but also on physical constraints. Additionally, constraints can be imposed during training to enhance the performance of networks in specific contexts. This study surveys the literature on the integration of constrained optimization with deep networks. Specifically, we examine the integration of hyper-parameter tuning with physical constraints, such as the number of FLOPS (FLoating point Operations Per Second), a measure of computational capacity, latency, and other factors. This study also considers the use of context-specific knowledge constraints to improve network performance. We discuss the integration of constraints in neural architecture search (NAS), considering the problem as both a multi-objective optimization (MOO) challenge and through the imposition of penalties in the loss function. Furthermore, we explore various approaches that integrate logic with deep neural networks (DNNs). In particular, we examine logic-neural integration through constrained optimization applied during the training of NNs and the use of semantic loss, which employs the probabilistic output of the networks to enforce constraints on the output.
A machine learning framework to classify musculoskeletal injury risk groups in military service members
Authors: Bird Matthew B. , Roach Megan H. , Nelson Roberts G. , Helton Matthew S. , Mauntel Timothy C.
Published: June 2024

Background

Musculoskeletal injuries (MSKIs) are endemic in military populations. Thus, it is essential to identify and mitigate MSKI risks. Time-to-event machine learning models utilizing self-reported questionnaires or existing data (e.g., electronic health records) may aid in creating efficient risk screening tools.

Methods

A total of 4,222 U.S. Army Service members completed a self-report MSKI risk screen as part of their unit's standard in-processing. Additionally, participants' MSKI and demographic data were abstracted from electronic health record data. Survival machine learning models (Cox proportional hazard regression (COX), COX with splines, conditional inference trees, and random forest) were deployed to develop a predictive model on the training data (75%; n = 2,963) for MSKI risk over varying time horizons (30, 90, 180, and 365 days) and were evaluated on the testing data (25%; n = 987). Probability of predicted risk (0.00–1.00) from the final model stratified Service members into quartiles based on MSKI risk.

Results

The COX model demonstrated the best model performance over the time horizons. The time-dependent area under the curve ranged from 0.73 to 0.70 at 30 and 180 days. The index prediction accuracy (IPA) was 12% better at 180 days than the IPA of the null model (0 variables). Within the COX model, “other” race, more self-reported pain items during the movement screens, female gender, and prior MSKI demonstrated the largest hazard ratios. When predicted probability was binned into quartiles, at 180 days, the highest risk bin had an MSKI incidence rate of 2,130.82 ± 171.15 per 1,000 person-years and incidence rate ratio of 4.74 (95% confidence interval: 3.44, 6.54) compared to the lowest risk bin.

Conclusion

Self-reported questionnaires and existing data can be used to create a machine learning algorithm to identify Service members' MSKI risk profiles. Further research should develop more granular Service member-specific MSKI screening tools and create MSKI risk mitigation strategies based on these screenings.
COP28 and its impact on the shared socioeconomic pathways
Authors: Patel Ketan , Hansmeyer Chris
Published: June 2024

COP28 aimed to make essential progress on the climate transition following a year marked by unparalleled climatic extremities. A spectrum of extreme weather phenomena, including droughts, floods, and wildfires, inflicted considerable devastation across various global locales. 2023 was identified as the warmest on record, with mean global temperatures surpassing those of the pre-industrial era by 1.4°C by the WMO. Given the current trajectory of temperature escalation, it is projected that global temperatures will surpass the preindustrial baseline by 1.5°C circa 2026, significantly ahead of the target year 2100 established during the 21st Conference of the Parties (COP21) in Paris, 8 years prior according to UNEP. The progress made during COP28 will need to be operationalized along pathways that enable the commitments to be turned into outcomes.
Molecular genetic identification of Wuzhishan ant chicken, a newly discovered resource in China
Authors: Gu Lihong , Wu Fanghu , Zheng Xinli , Zhang Xiaohui , Chen Yanmin , Lu Lizhi , Liu Xiangxiang , Mo Shuhui , Chao Zhe , He Zhongchun , Shang Yuanyuan , Wei Dong , Wei Sheng , Chen Youyi , Xu Tieshan
Published: June 2024

Introduction

The Wuzhishan ant (MY) chicken exhibits significant differences from other chicken breeds. However, the molecular genetic relationship between the MY breed and other chicken breeds has not been assessed.

Methods

Whole-genome resequencing was used to compare genetic diversity, nucleotide diversity, the fixation index, the linkage disequilibrium coefficient, and phylogenetic tree relationships between the MY breed and the Wenchang (WC), Danzhou (DZ), Bawangling (BW), and Longsheng Feng (LF) breeds.

Results

A total of 21,586,378 singlenucleotide polymorphisms and 4,253,341 insertions/deletions were screened out among the five breeds. The MY breed had the second highest genomic genetic diversity and nucleotide diversity and the lowest LD coefficient among the five breeds. Moreover, the phylogenetic tree analysis showed that individual birds of each breed clustered together with those of their respective breeds.

Discussion

Our data indicated that the MY breed is distinct from the other breeds and can be considered a new genetic resource.
Shiitake mushroom powder supplementation increase antioxidative activity in dogs
Authors: Kusaba Akio , Arai Toshiro
Published: June 2024

Introduction

The prevalence of age-related diseases, including obesity (a lipid metabolism disorder), increases with the increase in a dog’s lifespan. Most of age-related diseases are associated with oxidative stress by excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) from impaired mitochondrial functions. Safe and effective supplements with antioxidative and anti-inflammatory activities are required to prevent obesity and associated complications. Shiitake mushroom exhibit various functions including antioxidant activity. We investigated the effect of shiitake powder supplementation in healthy dogs.

Methods

Shiitake powder was supplemented at a dose of 800 mg/kg body weight/day for 4 weeks. The dose was set as 0.60–0.65 mg/kg/day of eritadenine, a hypocholesterolemic factor.

Results

The body weight and body condition score of the dogs did not change after shiitake supplementation. In contrast, plasma total cholesterol concentrations decreased and superoxide dismutase activity and leukocyte sirtuin1 mRNA expression increased significantly in the dogs that received the supplement.

Discussion

Oral administration of shiitake powder increased antioxidative activity. The supplement may be useful in ameliorating the signs of age-related diseases, including obesity, in dogs.
Non-infectious immune complexes downregulate the production of interferons and tumor necrosis factor-α in primary porcine alveolar macrophages in vitro
Authors: Zhang Liujun , Feng Xing , Chen Weizhen , Wang Bo , He Shaojun , Fan Hongjie , Liu Deyi
Published: June 2024

Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) caused by the PRRS virus (PRRSV) has been harming the pig industry worldwide for nearly 40 years. Although scientific researchers have made substantial efforts to explore PRRSV pathogenesis, the immune factors influencing PRRSV infection still need to be better understood. Infectious virus-antibody immune complexes (ICs) formed by PRRSV and sub-or non-neutralizing antibodies specific for PRRSV may significantly promote the development of PRRS by enhancing PRRSV replication through antibody-dependent enhancement. However, nothing is known about whether PRRSV infection is affected by non-infectious ICs (NICs) formed by non-pathogenic/infectious antigens and corresponding specific antibodies. Here, we found that PRRSV significantly induced the transcripts and proteins of interferon-α (IFN-α), IFN-β, IFN-γ, IFN-λ1, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in vitro primary porcine alveolar macrophages (PAMs) in the early stage of infection. Our results showed that NICs formed by rabbit-negative IgG (RNI) and pig anti-RNI specific IgG significantly reduced the transcripts and proteins of IFN-α, IFN-β, IFN-γ, IFN-λ1, and TNF-α in vitro PAMs and significantly elevated the transcripts and proteins of interleukine-10 (IL-10) and transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) in vitro PAMs. NICs-mediated PRRSV infection showed that NICs not only significantly decreased the induction of IFN-α, IFN-β, IFN-γ, IFN-λ1, and TNF-α by PRRSV but also significantly increased the induction of IL-10 and TGF-β1 by PRRSV and considerably enhanced PRRSV replication in vitro PAMs. Our data suggested that NICs could downregulate the production of antiviral cytokines (IFN-α/β/γ/λ1 and TNF-α) during PRRSV infection in vitro and facilitated PRRSV proliferation in its host cells by inhibiting innate antiviral immune response. This study elucidated one novel immune response to PRRSV infection, which would enhance our understanding of the pathogenesis of PRRSV.
Exposure to Adversity and its Impact on Later Life Cognitive, Mental, and Physical Health
Authors: Jennings Elyse A. , Mall Sumaya , Bassil Darina T. , Kahn Kathleen
Published: June 2024

Objectives

We aimed to assess later-life health responses to childhood and lifetime adversity in a cohort of rural, Black South African adults.

Methods

We performed ordinary least squares regression using two waves of data from Health and Aging in Africa: A Longitudinal Study of an INDEPTH Community in South Africa (HAALSI) to estimate a decline in cognitive, mental, and physical health over approximately 3 years. Our analytic sample consisted of 1,993 women and 1,496 men.

Results

Associations between several types of adversity and health outcomes point to declines in health. At the same time, many adverse experiences are associated with improvements in cognitive, mental, and physical health in later life. The direction of the association varied by type of exposure, health outcome, and gender.

Conclusion

In populations exposed to many adversities during life, specific adverse experiences may sometimes be associated with greater improvements (and not just greater decline) in health in later life. Further research is needed to unpack the mechanisms at play in these populations.
Intelligent Exchange of Sustainable Tourist Habits among the EU Member States
Authors: Leal Fátima , Pinho Micaela
Published: June 2024

Despite much research being conducted within the scope of sustainable tourism, more progress has yet to be made in defining how close or far different countries are from achieving this goal. Consequently, this paper aims to evaluate and compare the commitment of citizens, as tourists, from the 27 member states of the European Union to sustainable tourism. A map of sustainability was developed through the use of machine learning algorithms. A cluster analysis was performed, followed by a sustainable rating. The main findings indicate the existence of three country segments among the European Union member states according to the involvement of its citizens as tourists with sustainable practices: highly committed, moderately committed, and uncommitted. Based on these segments, we proposed a recommendation system that suggests the top-five countries where tourists could exchange sustainable tourism habits based on the idea of contagion or imitation behaviours among individuals across an extensive set of everyday decisions. The results reveal significant variations in sustainable tourism practices across member states, highlighting both challenges and opportunities for harmonisation. By implementing this recommendation system, we facilitate the adoption of sustainable habits among tourists and stakeholders, driving a more unified approach to sustainability in the multiple tourism destinations. This study shows no convergence between the 27 European Union member states regarding sustainable tourism. Therefore, political policies are necessary so that all citizens converge on sustainable tourist habits and the European Union contributes, as a whole, to sustainable tourism.
The Impact of CEO Retention on Post-Merger Integration: Insights from Chegg in the Ed-Tech Industry
Authors: Kim Chaewon , Jung Dakyung , Sung Jiwon , Hwang Young Hae , Choi Seungho
Published: June 2024

This study examines the crucial role of chief executive officers (CEOs) in post-acquisition integration, focusing on Chegg, a prominent ed-tech company in a rapidly evolving industry. Analyzing CEO actions post-acquisition through interviews and metrics, we find that a three-year CEO retention period significantly contributes to successful integration at Chegg. This research emphasizes the importance of understanding ideal CEO retention and their strategic actions, offering insights for more successful post-acquisition integration and long-term economic benefits.
Evaluation of Sonic Boom Shock Wave Generation with CFD Methods
Authors: Graziani Samuele , Petrosino Francesco , Jäschke Jacob , Glorioso Antimo , Fusaro Roberta , Viola Nicole
Published: June 2024

Over the past two decades, there has been a renewed interest in the development of a new generation of supersonic aircraft for civil purposes that could potentially succeed Concorde. However, the noise annoyance is still considered one of the hampering factors to meet public consensus. This paper aims at revealing the potential of numerical simulations to predict sonic boom signature in Near Field at early design stages. In particular, the paper further demonstrates the applicability of the numerical approach proposed by NASA and other partners during the Sonic Boom Prediction Workshops held between 2014 and 2021, to compute the pressure signature of aircraft in the zone close to it. The results highlight the suitability of the approach (1) to capture the impact of aircraft flight condition variations on the sonic boom signature, (2) to enable the characterization of novel aircraft layout, including Mach 5 waverider configuration, (3) to provide near-field shock wave noise predictions that can be used to evaluate shock propagation, on-ground signature analyses, and annoyance assessment.
Aircraft Wake Evolution Prediction Based on Parallel Hybrid Neural Network Model
Authors: Deng Leilei , Pan Weijun , Wang Yuhao , Luan Tian , Leng Yuanfei
Published: June 2024

To overcome the time-consuming drawbacks of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) numerical simulations, this paper proposes a hybrid model named PA-TLA (parallel architecture combining a TCN, LSTM, and an attention mechanism) based on the concept of intelligent aerodynamics and a parallel architecture. This model utilizes CFD data to drive efficient predictions of aircraft wake evolution at different initial altitudes during the approach phase. Initially, CFD simulations of continuous initial altitudes during the approach phase are used to generate aircraft wake evolution data, which are then validated against real-world LIDAR data to verify their reliability. The PA-TLA model is designed based on a parallel architecture, combining Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) networks, Temporal Convolutional Networks (TCNs), and a tensor concatenation module based on the attention mechanism, which ensures computational efficiency while fully leveraging the advantages of each component in a parallel processing framework. The study results show that the PA-TLA model outperforms both the LSTM and TCN models in predicting the three characteristic parameters of aircraft wake: vorticity, circulation, and Q-criterion. Compared to the serially structured TCN-LSTM, PA-TLA achieves an average reduction in mean squared error (MSE) of 6.80%, in mean absolute error (MAE) of 7.70%, and in root mean square error (RMSE) of 4.47%, with an average increase in the coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.36% and a 35% improvement in prediction efficiency. Lastly, this study combines numerical simulations and the PA-TLA deep learning architecture to analyze the near-ground wake vortex evolution. The results indicate that the ground effect increases air resistance and turbulence as vortices approach the ground, thereby slowing the decay rate of the wake vortex strength at lower altitudes. The ground effect also accelerates the dissipation and movement of vortex centers, causing more pronounced changes in vortex spacing at lower altitudes. Additionally, the vortex center height at lower altitudes initially decreases and then increases, unlike the continuous decrease observed at higher altitudes.
Electrostatic Signal Self-Adaptive Denoising Method Combined with CEEMDAN and Wavelet Threshold
Authors: Liu Yan , Zuo Hongfu , Liu Zhenzhen , Fu Yu , Jia James Jiusi , Dhupia Jaspreet S.
Published: June 2024

A novel low-pass filtering self-adaptive (LPFA) denoising method combining complete ensemble empirical mode decomposition with adaptive noise (CEEMDAN) and a wavelet threshold (WT) strategy is proposed to solve the problem of the aero-engine gas-path electrostatic signal noise, which challenges the gas-path component condition monitoring and feature extraction techniques. Firstly, the integration of CEEMDAN addresses modal aliasing and intermittent signal challenges, while the proposed low-pass filtering method autonomously selects valuable signal components. Additionally, the application of the WT in the unselected components enhances the extraction of useful information, presenting a unique and advanced approach to electrostatic signal denoising. Moreover, the proposed method is applied to simulated signals with different input signal-to-noise ratios and experimental fault electrostatic signals of a micro-turbojet engine. The comparison with several traditional approaches in a denoising test for the simulated signals and experimental signals reveals that the proposed method performs better in extracting the effective components of the signal and eliminating noise.
Attitudes and Perceptions of Local Communities towards Nile Crocodiles (Crocodylus niloticus) in the Sudd Wetlands, South Sudan
Authors: Benansio John Sebit , Damaya Gift Simon , Funk Stephan M. , Fa Julia E. , Di Vittorio Massimiliano , Dendi Daniele , Luiselli Luca
Published: June 2024

Conflicts between human populations and Nile crocodiles are widespread with crocodiles posing significant threats to fisherfolk and riverine communities across r-Saharan Africa. Hundreds of deadly attacks take place annually, and mortality rates may range from 50% to 100%. Attitudes and perceptions towards crocodiles were studied using structured questionnaires among fisherfolk along the River Nile and the Sudd wetlands in South Sudan. Local communities used crocodiles for their meat and skin/leather trades. The meat is regarded to enhance longevity, sexual potency, and protection against witchcraft. Crocodiles are perceived as a main threat to lives and livelihoods as they restrict people’s freedom of movement along water bodies, attack livestock and humans, and devastate fishing equipment. To assess whether responses were influenced by the intensity of crocodile threats, published data on fatal crocodile attacks on humans and livestock were analysed using Generalised Linear Models (GLMs). This analysis indicated a direct link between the number of crocodile attacks and human attitudes. Crocodiles were generally feared and hated, and there was the agreement of the need to destroy breeding habitats. However, some attitudes were complex and nuanced as highlighted by the agreement of local communities on the need to destroy Nile Crocodile breeding habitats on the one hand and the need to establish crocodile sanctuaries as the the preferred strategy to mitigate risks and conflict on the other hand. There is a need for the creation of a crocodile sanctuary in the Sudd wetlands to minimise the risks of illegal hunting and to buffer the increasing pressure on crocodiles due to human population growth and economic upturn after the civil war.
Effect of Rumen-Protected L-Tryptophan or L-Ascorbic Acid on Plasma Metabolites and Milk Production Characteristics of Lactating Holstein Cows during Summer Conditions
Authors: Kim Young-Lae , Lee So-Hee , Son Gi-Hwal , Shin Jong-Suh , Kim Min-Ji , Park Byung-Ki
Published: June 2024

This study investigated the effects of rumen-protected L-tryptophan or L-ascorbic acid supplementation on the productivity of lactating Holstein cows during a high-temperature period. Thirty cows were assigned to three dietary groups: control (CON), treatment 1 (TRT 1; rumen-protected L-tryptophan, 20 g/cow/d), and treatment 2 (TRT 2; rumen-protected L-ascorbic acid, 20 g/cow/d). As the high-temperature period progressed, the decrease in milk yield and dry matter intake (DMI) in the TRT 1 and TRT 2 groups was lower than that in the CON group. The total protein level in the plasma of the TRT 1 group was higher than that in the CON group (p < 0.05). Milk melatonin concentration was higher in the TRT 1 group than in the CON and TRT 2 groups (p < 0.05). Thus, the present results indicate that rumen-protected L-tryptophan or L-ascorbic acid has positive effects in preventing declines in DMI and milk yield by reducing heat stress in Holstein cows. In particular, rumen-protected L-tryptophan is considered effective in increasing the melatonin concentration in milk.
Water/N,N-Dimethylacetamide-Based Hybrid Electrolyte and Its Application to Enhanced Voltage Electrochemical Capacitors
Authors: Mroziewicz Aleksandra A. , Solska Karolina , Żukowska Grażyna Zofia , Skunik-Nuckowska Magdalena
Published: June 2024

The growing interest in hybrid (aqueous–organic) electrolytes for electrochemical energy storage is due to their wide stability window, improved safety, and ease of assembly that does not require a moisture-free atmosphere. When it comes to applications in electrochemical capacitors, hybrid electrolytes are expected to fill the gap between high-voltage organic systems and their high discharge rate aqueous counterparts. This article discusses the potential applicability of aqueous–organic electrolytes utilizing water/N,N-dimethylacetamide (DMAc) solvent mixture, and sodium perchlorate as a source of charge carriers. The hydrogen bond formation between H2O and DMAc (mole fraction xDMAc = 0.16) is shown to regulate the original water and cation solvation structure, thus reducing the electrochemical activity of the primary aqueous solution both in the hydrogen (HER) and oxygen (OER) evolution reactions region. As a result, an electrochemical stability window of 3.0 V can be achieved on titanium electrodes while providing reasonable ionic conductivity of 39 mS cm−1 along with the electrolyte’s flame retardant and anti-freezing properties. Based on the diagnostic electrochemical studies, the operation conditions for carbon/carbon capacitors have been carefully optimized to adjust the potential ranges of the individual electrodes to the electrochemical stability region. The system with the appropriate electrode mass ratio (m+/m− = 1.51) was characterized by a wide operating voltage of 2.0 V, gravimetric energy of 13.2 Wh kg−1, and practically a 100% capacitance retention after 10,000 charge–discharge cycles. This translates to a significant rise in the maximum energy of 76% when compared to the aqueous counterpart. Additionally, reasonable charge–discharge rates and anti-freeze properties of the developed electrolyte enable application in a broad temperature range down to −20 °C, which is demonstrated as well.
Brewing Beer in Microgravity: The Effect on Rate, Yeast, and Volatile Compounds
Authors: Mendoza Pedro Fernandez , Thompson-Witrick Katherine A. , Moreno Skylar R. , Cárdenas-Pinto Santiago , Jia Zhen , Zotarelli Lincoln , Zhang Boce , MacIntosh Andrew J.
Published: June 2024

The exploration of space is becoming more feasible, and with this comes the possibility of performing fermentations in microgravity. Our study explores the potential effects of microgravity on a standard brewing model fermentation. As the fermentation of barley wort has been studied for centuries, there is an established foundation of knowledge with which to compare any changes that occur under microgravity. A modified ASBC miniature fermentation protocol (Yeast-14) was conducted within a Yuri 2.0 microgravity chamber to examine the response of Saccharomyces pastorianus to simulated microgravity conditions. Our findings reveal that yeast exhibited accelerated growth rates under microgravity compared to standard conditions. Additionally, the microgravity environment led to significantly lower levels of volatile compounds such as isoamyl acetate and 2-phenethyl acetate in the final product. Further genetic analysis showed significant downregulation of the ATF2 gene in the control group, potentially the mechanism behind the observed decrease in volatile compounds. These results show that while fermentation under microgravity is likely to eventually be commonplace, there may be changes in rate and gene expression that are beneficial or detrimental to the final product depending upon the desired characteristics.
Latest Advances in Chondrocyte-Based Cartilage Repair
Authors: Yue Li , Lim Ryan , Owens Brett D.
Published: June 2024

Chondrocyte-based cell therapy has been used for more than 30 years and is still considered to be a promising method of cartilage repair despite some limitations. This review introduces the latest developments of four generations of autologous chondrocyte implantation and current autologous chondrocyte products. The regeneration of cartilage from adult chondrocytes is limited by culture-induced dedifferentiation and patient age. Cartibeads is an innovative three-step method to produce high-quality hyaline cartilage microtissues, and it is developed from adult dedifferentiated chondrocytes with a high number of cell passages. In addition, allogeneic chondrocyte therapies using the Quantum hollow-fiber bioreactor and several signaling pathways involved in chondrocyte-based cartilage repair are mentioned, such as WNT signaling, the BMP-2/WISP1 pathway, and the FGF19 pathway.
Advancing the Robotic Vision Revolution: Development and Evaluation of a Bionic Binocular System for Enhanced Robotic Vision
Authors: Zhang Hongxin , Lee Suan
Published: June 2024

This paper describes a novel bionic eye binocular vision system designed to mimic the natural movements of the human eye. The system provides a broader field of view and enhances visual perception in complex environments. Compared with similar bionic binocular cameras, the JEWXON BC200 bionic binocular camera developed in this study is more miniature. It consumes only 2.8 W of power, which makes it ideal for mobile robots. Combining axis and camera rotation enables more seamless panoramic image synthesis and is therefore suitable for self-rotating bionic binocular cameras. In addition, combined with the YOLO-V8 model, the camera can accurately recognize objects such as clocks and keyboards. This research provides new ideas for the development of robotic vision systems.
Building Materials Classification Model Based on Text Data Enhancement and Semantic Feature Extraction
Authors: Yan Qiao , Jiao Fei , Peng Wei
Published: June 2024

In order to accurately extract and match carbon emission factors from the Chinese textual building materials list and construct a precise carbon emission factor database, it is crucial to accurately classify the textual building materials. In this study, a novel classification model based on text data enhancement and semantic feature extraction is proposed and applied for building materials classification. Firstly, the explanatory information on the building materials is collected and normalized to construct the original dataset. Then, the Latent Dirichlet Allocation and statistical-language-model-based hybrid ensemble data enhancement methods are explained in detail, and the semantic features closely related to the carbon emission factor are extracted by constructed composite convolutional networks and the transformed word vectors. Finally, the ensemble classification model is designed, constructed, and applied to match the carbon emission factor from the textual building materials. The experimental results show that the proposed model improves the F1Macro score by 4–12% compared to traditional machine learning and deep learning models.
Breast Cancer Screening Using Inverse Modeling of Surface Temperatures and Steady-State Thermal Imaging
Authors: Sritharan Nithya , Gutierrez Carlos , Perez-Raya Isaac , Gonzalez-Hernandez Jose-Luis , Owens Alyssa , Dabydeen Donnette , Medeiros Lori , Kandlikar Satish , Phatak Pradyumna
Published: June 2024

Cancer is characterized by increased metabolic activity and vascularity, leading to temperature changes in cancerous tissues compared to normal cells. This study focused on patients with abnormal mammogram findings or a clinical suspicion of breast cancer, exclusively those confirmed by biopsy. Utilizing an ultra-high sensitivity thermal camera and prone patient positioning, we measured surface temperatures integrated with an inverse modeling technique based on heat transfer principles to predict malignant breast lesions. Involving 25 breast tumors, our technique accurately predicted all tumors, with maximum errors below 5 mm in size and less than 1 cm in tumor location. Predictive efficacy was unaffected by tumor size, location, or breast density, with no aberrant predictions in the contralateral normal breast. Infrared temperature profiles and inverse modeling using both techniques successfully predicted breast cancer, highlighting its potential in breast cancer screening.
Distance of Biopsy-Confirmed High-Risk Breast Lesion from Concurrently Identified Breast Malignancy Associated with Risk of Carcinoma at the High-Risk Lesion Site
Authors: Le Julie , O’Keefe Thomas J. , Khan Sohini , Grossi Sara M. , Choi Hye Young , Ojeda-Fournier Haydee , Armani Ava , Wallace Anne M. , Blair Sarah L.
Published: June 2024

High-risk breast lesions including incidental intraductal papilloma without atypia (IPA), lobular hyperplasia (LCIS or ALH), flat epithelial atypia (FEA) and complex sclerosing lesion (CSL) are not routinely excised due to low upgrade rates to carcinoma. We aim to identify features of these lesions predictive of upgrade when identified concurrently with invasive disease. Methods: A single-center retrospective cohort study was performed for patients who underwent multi-site lumpectomies with invasive disease at one site and a high-risk lesion at another site between 2006 and 2021. A multinomial logistic regression was performed. Results: Sixty-five patients met the inclusion criteria. Four patients (6.2%) had an upgrade to in situ disease (DCIS) and one (1.5%) to invasive carcinoma. Three upgraded high-risk lesions were ipsilateral to the concurrent carcinoma and two were contralateral. In the multivariate model, a high-risk lesion within 5 cm of an ipsilateral malignancy was associated with increased risk of upgrade. The 3.8% upgrade rate for high-risk lesions located greater than 5 cm from ipsilateral malignancy or in the contralateral breast suggests that omission of excisional biopsy may be considered. Excisional biopsy of lesions within 5 cm of ipsilateral malignancy is recommended given the 25% upgrade risk in our series.
Dysfunction of Small-Conductance Ca2+-Activated Potassium (SK) Channels Drives Amygdala Hyperexcitability and Neuropathic Pain Behaviors: Involvement of Epigenetic Mechanisms
Authors: Yakhnitsa Vadim , Thompson Jeremy , Ponomareva Olga , Ji Guangchen , Kiritoshi Takaki , Mahimainathan Lenin , Molehin Deborah , Pruitt Kevin , Neugebauer Volker
Published: June 2024

Neuroplasticity in the amygdala and its central nucleus (CeA) is linked to pain modulation and pain behaviors, but cellular mechanisms are not well understood. Here, we addressed the role of small-conductance Ca2+-activated potassium (SK) channels in pain-related amygdala plasticity. The facilitatory effects of the intra-CeA application of an SK channel blocker (apamin) on the pain behaviors of control rats were lost in a neuropathic pain model, whereas an SK channel activator (NS309) inhibited pain behaviors in neuropathic rats but not in sham controls, suggesting the loss of the inhibitory behavioral effects of amygdala SK channels. Brain slice electrophysiology found hyperexcitability of CeA neurons in the neuropathic pain condition due to the loss of SK channel-mediated medium afterhyperpolarization (mAHP), which was accompanied by decreased SK2 channel protein and mRNA expression, consistent with a pretranscriptional mechanisms. The underlying mechanisms involved the epigenetic silencing of the SK2 gene due to the increased DNA methylation of the CpG island of the SK2 promoter region and the change in methylated CpG sites in the CeA in neuropathic pain. This study identified the epigenetic dysregulation of SK channels in the amygdala (CeA) as a novel mechanism of neuropathic pain-related plasticity and behavior that could be targeted to control abnormally enhanced amygdala activity and chronic neuropathic pain.
“Whispers from the Wrist”: Wearable Health Monitoring Devices and Privacy Regulations in the U.S.: The Loopholes, the Challenges, and the Opportunities
Authors: Sifaoui Asma , Eastin Matthew S.
Published: June 2024

The growth of wearable technology has enabled the collection of even more personalized information on individuals. New health-related devices marketed to consumers collect health information that might not fall under the traditional category of Protected Health Information, and thus, HIPAA protections do not fully apply. Meaning, commercial wearable health devices do not fall under FDA oversight, and data not paired with a doctor–patient relationship do not fall under HIPAA privacy protection; thus, much of the gathered health-related metrics are left without regulation and open to be sold to data brokers. As such, these data can be leveraged by health insurance, law enforcement, and employers, to name a few. This manuscript explores the loopholes in current regulations and suggests a framework that categorizes wearable data and addresses challenges in data transfer. Furthermore, taking a user perspective, the suggested framework offers solutions that aim to guide users and policymakers in navigating privacy issues in wearable technology.
The Electrical Resistivity of Liquid Fe-16wt%S-2wt%Si at High Pressures and the Effect of S and Si on the Dynamo in the Ancient Vestan Core
Authors: Lenhart Erin M. , Yong Wenjun , Secco Richard A.
Published: June 2024

A critical component of predicting thermal convection and dynamo action in the cores of terrestrial planetary bodies is the adiabatic heat flux at the top of the core. Powders of Fe, FeS, and Fe-9wt%Si were mixed to imitate the core of Asteroid 4 Vesta, which studies of HED meteorites indicate is comprised of 13–16wt%S and 1–2wt%Si. In a 1000-ton cubic anvil press, the voltage drop across an Fe-16wt%S-2wt%Si sample of 8–10 mm3 was measured at 2, 3, 4, and 5 GPa and ~300–2000 K. The resistivity of Fe-16wt%S-2wt%Si is 400 ± 50 μΩ·cm for 2–5 GPa for the complete liquid state. Using the Wiedemann–Franz Law, this gives an electronic thermal conductivity of 11 ± 1.5 W/m/K for 2–4 GPa at complete melting and an adiabatic heat flow of 55 ± 15 MW at the top of an early Fe-16wt%S-2wt%Si Vestan core. The 2 GPa boundary of the miscibility of Fe-16wt%S-2wt%Si is observed. The adiabatic heat flow through an Fe-16wt%S-2wt%Si core of variable size is discussed, as well as the resistivity of liquid Fe alloy at small planetary core conditions as a function of S and Si alloying composition. On the basis of previous studies on binary and ternary alloys of Fe with S and/or Si, we interpolate the separate effects of S and Si on the resistivity (and inversely on thermal conductivity and core adiabatic heat flow).
Optimizing Disaster Response through Efficient Path Planning of Mobile Aerial Base Station with Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Adam Mohammed Sani , Nordin Rosdiadee , Abdullah Nor Fadzilah , Abu-Samah Asma , Amodu Oluwatosin Ahmed , Alsharif Mohammed H.
Published: June 2024

The use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), or drones, as mobile aerial base stations (MABSs) in Disaster Response Networks (DRNs) has gained significant interest in addressing coverage gaps of user equipment (UE) and establishing ubiquitous connectivity. In the event of natural disasters, the traditional base station is often destroyed, leading to significant challenges for UEs in establishing communication with emergency services. This study explores the deployment of MABS to provide network service to terrestrial users in a geographical area after a disaster. The UEs are organized into clusters at safe locations or evacuation shelters as part of the communication infrastructure. The main goal is to provide regular wireless communication for geographically dispersed users using Long-Term Evolution (LTE) technology. The MABS traveling at an average speed of 50 km/h visits different cluster centroids determined by the Affinity Propagation Clustering (APC) algorithm. A combination of graph theory and a Genetic Algorithm (GA) was used through mutators with a fitness function to obtain the most efficient flyable paths through an evolution pool of 100 generations. The efficiency of the proposed algorithm was compared with the benchmark fitness function and analyzed using the number of serviced UE performance indicators. System-level simulations were used to evaluate the performance of the proposed new fitness function in terms of the UEs served by the MABS after the MABS deployment, fitness score, service ratio, and path smoothness ratio. The results show that the proposed fitness function improved the overall service of UEs after MABS deployment and the fitness score, service ratio, and path smoothness ratio under a given number of MABS.