bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Perceived Value of Remote Access Online Learning: An Instrument Construction and Validation Case Study
Authors: Rivers Damian J.
Published: November 2023

The fundamental nature of the transaction between the student-as-consumer and the university-as-service provider changed during the COVID-19 pandemic as educational activities switched to a remote-access online learning format. Educational practices were primarily shaped in response to a public health crisis rather than the knowledge related needs and expectations of students relative to a society in flux. As students and universities emerge into the post-pandemic landscape and in-person education returns, it is important to assess the broader consequences of such dramatic educational shifts and to understand how students-as-consumers experienced remote access online learning. The current article reports on the construction and validation of a short-survey measure used to model factors impacting the perceived value of remote access online learning from the perspective of Japanese university students. The study examines the contribution of measures pertaining to the ability to self-regulate, the provision of university support services, the perception of the learning management system, and the anticipated impact on future career opportunities. Through the application of structural equation modeling, the predictor variables accounted for 73.1% of the variance observed in the perceived value of remote access online learning. Furthermore, the tested measurement model affirmed six out of the eight hypotheses. The results are discussed in relation to educational provisions in the post-pandemic society from the perspective of student-as-consumer and university-as-service provider.
Brain Emotional Learning Control Based on Radial Basis Function for Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor
Authors: Li Wenjuan , Li Boyang , Liang Shuwei , Xiao Han
Published: November 2023

It is proposed to use a brain emotional learning control (BELC) system that is based on radial basis function (RBF) in order to enhance the performance of the speed control system of a permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) and its capacity to remain stable following an unexpected load. First, the shortcomings of the traditional PI control in the PMSM speed-control system are explained. The intelligent control system has excellent learning ability and can effectively improve the control effect. The brain emotional learning control is great for nonlinear system control. Thus, it was utilized as the PMSM speed controller in place of the conventional PI control. The RBF neural network was used to optimize some parameters of BELC. Therefore, the process of adjusting parameters in BELC was simplified and the controller ability to resist disturbances was enhanced. The results showed that the brain-based emotional learning control based on RBF optimization (RBF-based BELC) not only improved the speed-control effect of the PMSM system but also enhanced the stability of the torque and current.
INNT: Restricting Activation Distance to Enhance Consistency of Visual Interpretation in Neighborhood Noise Training
Authors: Wang Xingyu , Ma Rui , He Jinyuan , Zhang Taisi , Wang Xiajing , Xue Jingfeng
Published: November 2023

In this paper, we propose an end-to-end interpretable neighborhood noise training framework (INNT) to address the issue of inconsistent interpretations between clean and noisy samples in noise training. Noise training conventionally involves incorporating noisy samples into the training set, followed by generalization training. However, visual interpretations suggest that models may be learning the noise distribution rather than the desired robust target features. To mitigate this problem, we reformulate the noise training objective to minimize the visual interpretation consistency of images in the sample neighborhood. We design a noise activation distance constraint regularization term to enforce the similarity of high-level feature maps between clean and noisy samples. Additionally, we enhance the structure of noise training by iteratively resampling noise to more accurately depict the sample neighborhood. Furthermore, neighborhood noise is introduced to achieve more intuitive sample neighborhood sampling. Finally, we conducted qualitative and quantitative tests on different CNN architectures and public datasets. The results indicate that INNT leads to a more consistent decision rationale and balances the accuracy between noisy and clean samples.
Vehicular Localization Framework with UWB and DAG-Based Distributed Ledger for Ensuring Positioning Accuracy and Security
Authors: Kim Kiseok , Lee Sangmin , Yoo Taehoon , Kim Hwangnam
Published: November 2023

In performing various missions using various types of vehicles or other moving objects, the positioning of each agent within the swarm is essential. In particular, for missions that require precise location estimation, the case of malicious attacks through data forgery cannot be excluded. In this paper, we propose a highly secure and accurate localization framework utilizing a Directed-Acyclic-Graph (DAG)-based distributed ledger as an intelligent vehicle network for an Ultra-Wideband (UWB) positioning system. When performing UWB positioning, the data generated from each node are used to calculate the Time of Flight (ToF), and if any of them are tampered with, the overall positioning performance is greatly reduced. We prevented positioning performance degradation by ensuring the safety and integrity of the data by applying a chain-based logical network between each node utilized for UWB positioning. The experimental results indicated that the proposed framework was effective at providing system stability and security without affecting the UWB positioning performance. In addition, the performance of the framework was verified by presenting defense indicators for various attack scenarios.
Video Summarization Generation Based on Graph Structure Reconstruction
Authors: Zhang Jing , Wu Guangli , Song Shanshan
Published: November 2023

Video summarization aims to identify important segments in a video and merge them into a concise representation, enabling users to comprehend the essential information without watching the entire video. Graph structure-based video summarization approaches ignore the issue of redundant adjacency matrix. To address this issue, this paper proposes a video summary generation model based on graph structure reconstruction (VOGNet), in which the model first adopts a variational graph auto-encoders (VGAE) to reconstruct the graph structure to remove redundant information in the graph structure; followed by using the reconstructed graph structure in a graph attention network (GAT), allocating different weights to different shot features in the neighborhood; and lastly, in order to avoid the loss of information during the training of the model, a feature fusion approach is proposed to combine the training obtained shot features with the original shot features as the shot features for generating the summary. We perform extensive experiments on two standard datasets, SumMe and TVSum, and the experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness and robustness of the proposed model.
Perovskite-Type Oxides as Exsolution Catalysts in CO2 Utilization
Authors: Ruh Thomas , Schrenk Florian , Berger Tobias , Rameshan Christoph
Published: November 2023

Perovskite-type oxides (ABO3) are a highly versatile class of materials. They are compositionally flexible, as their constituents can be chosen from a wide range of elements across the periodic table with a vast number of possible combinations. This flexibility enables the tuning of the materials’ properties by doping the A- and/or B-sites of the base structure, facilitating the application-oriented design of materials. The ability to undergo exsolution under reductive conditions makes perovskite-type oxides particularly well-suited for catalytic applications. Exsolution is a process during which B-site elements migrate to the surface of the material where they form anchored and finely dispersed nanoparticles that are crucially important for obtaining a good catalytic performance, while the perovskite base provides a stable support. Recently, exsolution catalysts have been investigated as possible materials for CO2 utilization reactions like reverse water–gas shift reactions or methane dry reforming.
Diff-SwinT: An Integrated Framework of Diffusion Model and Swin Transformer for Radar Jamming Recognition
Authors: Sha Minghui , Wang Dewu , Meng Fei , Wang Wenyan , Han Yu
Published: November 2023

With the increasing complexity of radar jamming threats, accurate and automatic jamming recognition is essential but remains challenging. Conventional algorithms often suffer from sharply decreased recognition accuracy under low jamming-to-noise ratios (JNR).Artificial intelligence-based jamming signal recognition is currently the main research directions for this issue. This paper proposes a new radar jamming recognition framework called Diff-SwinT. Firstly, the time-frequency representations of jamming signals are generated using Choi-Williams distribution. Then, a diffusion model with U-Net backbone is trained by adding Gaussian noise in the forward process and reconstructing in the reverse process, obtaining an inverse diffusion model with denoising capability. Next, Swin Transformer extracts hierarchical multi-scale features from the denoised time-frequency plots, and the features are fed into linear layers for classification. Experiments show that compared to using Swin Transformer, the proposed framework improves overall accuracy by 15% to 10% at JNR from −16 dB to −8 dB, demonstrating the efficacy of diffusion-based denoising in enhancing model robustness. Compared to VGG-based and feature-fusion-based recognition methods, the proposed framework has over 27% overall accuracy advantage under JNR from −16 dB to −8 dB. This integrated approach significantly enhances intelligent radar jamming recognition capability in complex environments.
Innovative Applications of Tenebrio molitor Larvae in Food Product Development: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Kotsou Konstantina , Chatzimitakos Theodoros , Athanasiadis Vassilis , Bozinou Eleni , Athanassiou Christos G. , Lalas Stavros I.
Published: November 2023

The utilization of alternative and sustainable food sources has garnered significant interest as a means to address the challenges of food security and environmental sustainability. Tenebrio molitor larvae, commonly known as mealworms, have emerged as a promising candidate in this context, as they are a rich source of nutrients and can be reared with relatively low resource input. This review article presents an in-depth analysis of the diverse range of food products developed using T. molitor larvae and the distinctive properties they bestow on these products. The review encompasses an exploration of the nutritional composition of the larvae, emphasizing their rich protein content, balanced amino acid profile, fatty acids with health benefits, vitamins, and minerals. It delves into how these attributes have been harnessed to enhance the nutritional value of a variety of food items, ranging from protein-rich snacks and energy bars to pasta, bakery goods, etc. Each of these applications is discussed with regard to how T. molitor larvae contribute to the nutritional content and sensory characteristics of the final product. Furthermore, this review sheds light on the innovative techniques and processing methods employed to incorporate T. molitor larvae into different food matrices. It addresses challenges related to taste, texture, and appearance that have been encountered and the strategies devised to overcome related problems. Overall, this comprehensive review elucidates the diverse food products that have been developed utilizing T. molitor larvae as a key ingredient. Highlighting the nutritional, sensory, and sustainability aspects of these products, this review offers valuable insights to harness the potential of this alternative protein source to meet the evolving needs of modern food systems.
Chemical Composition and Antimicrobial Activity against the Listeria monocytogenes of Essential Oils from Seven Salvia Species
Authors: Bozzini Maria Francesca , Pieracci Ylenia , Ascrizzi Roberta , Najar Basma , D’Antraccoli Marco , Ciampi Luca , Peruzzi Lorenzo , Turchi Barbara , Pedonese Francesca , Alleva Alice , Flamini Guido , Fratini Filippo
Published: November 2023

In recent years, essential oils (EOs) have received interest due to their antibacterial properties. Accordingly, the present study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of the EOs obtained from seven species of Salvia on three strains of Listeria monocytogenes (two serotyped wild strains and one ATCC strain), a bacterium able to contaminate food products and cause foodborne disease in humans. The Salvia species analysed in the present study were cultivated at the Botanic Garden and Museum of the University of Pisa, and their air-dried aerial parts were subjected to hydrodistillation using a Clevenger apparatus. The obtained EOs were analysed via gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry for the evaluation of their chemical composition, and they were tested for their inhibitory and bactericidal activities by means of MIC and MBC. The tested Eos showed promising results, and the best outcomes were reached by S. chamaedryoides EO, showing an MIC of 1:256 and an MBC of 1:64. The predominant compounds of this EO were the sesquiterpenes caryophyllene oxide and β-caryophyllene, together with the monoterpenes bornyl acetate and borneol. These results suggest that these EOs may possibly be used in the food industry as preservatives of natural origins.
Changes in Composition of Some Bioactive Molecules upon Inclusion of Lacticaseibacillus paracasei Probiotic Strains into a Standard Yogurt Starter Culture
Authors: Moiseenko Konstantin V. , Glazunova Olga A. , Savinova Olga S. , Shabaev Alexander V. , Fedorova Tatyana V.
Published: November 2023

Incorporation of probiotic Lacticaseibacillus paracasei into a standard yogurt starter culture can drastically improve its health promoting properties. However, besides being an advantage in itself, the incorporation of a new probiotic strain can significantly affect the overall composition of fermented milk. In this article, the effect of incorporation of the L. paracasei probiotic strains (KF1 and MA3) into several standard yogurt starter cultures (consisting of the following strains: Streptococcus thermophilus 16t and either Lactobacillus delbrueckii Lb100 or L. delbrueckii Lb200) was investigated. Such parameters as the degree of proteolysis, antioxidant activity, ACE-inhibitory activity, content of organic acids, profile of FAs and profile of volatile organic compounds were measured, and the influence of the starter culture composition on these parameters was described. It was demonstrated that, at least in the case of the studied strains, yogurt with L. paracasei had an advantage over the standard yogurt in terms of the content of acetoin, acetic acid, butyric acid and conjugated linoleic acid. Moreover, the incorporation of L. paracasei KF1 significantly improved the hypotensive properties of the resulting yogurt. Thus, the presented study provides insight into the bioactive molecules of probiotic yogurt and may be useful for both academia and industry in the development of new dairy-based functional products.
Embankments Reinforced by Vertical Inclusions on Soft Soil: Numerical Study of Stress Redistribution
Authors: Pham Minh-Tuan , Pham Duc-Dung , Vu Duy-Liem , Dias Daniel
Published: November 2023

Constructing embankments over soft soils is a challenge for geotechnical engineers due to large settlements. Among diverse ground-improvement methods, combining piles and geosynthetics (e.g., geosynthetic-reinforced piles, deep cement mixing columns, geotextile-encased columns) emerges as a reliable solution for time-bound projects and challenging ground conditions. While stress distribution within pile-supported embankments has been extensively studied, the load transfer efficiency of piled solutions with geosynthetic reinforcement remains less explored. The novelty in this study lies in the investigation of three different inclusion solutions from a common control case in the numerical model considering the role of geosynthetic reinforcement. This study investigates the load transfer mechanisms in embankments supported by various techniques including geosynthetic-reinforced piles, deep cement mixing columns, and geosynthetic-encased granular columns. Two-dimensional axisymmetric finite element models were developed for three cases of embankments supported by vertical inclusions. Numerical findings allow clarification of the soft ground and embankment characteristics which influence the arching and membrane efficiencies. Rigid piles outperform deep cement mixing (DCM) columns and geotextile-encased columns (GEC) in reducing settlements of soft ground. Geosynthetic reinforcements are particularly helpful for rigid pile solutions in high embankments due to their load transfer capability. Additionally, physical properties of fill soil can impact the inclusion solutions, with high shear resistance enhancing the arching effect and lower modulus subsoils showing better arching performance.
Sexual Health and Psychological Well-Being of Women: A Systematic Review
Authors: Arcos-Romero Ana Isabel , Calvillo Cristobal
Published: November 2023

(1) Background: Psychological well-being (PWB) and female sexual health are two important areas for women’s quality of life and research, and they are closely related. The aim of this study was to conduct a systematic review of the existing literature to explore the association between PWB and sexual health in women. (2) Methods: This review was carried out following the PRISMA checklist. The inclusion criteria were studies with samples of adult women that evaluated and associated sexual functioning and psychological well-being. Scientific articles were identified on Web of Science, Scopus, EBSCO (PsycInfo, PsycArticles, and Psicodoc), ProQuest, and PubMed. The search was limited to years between 2010 and 2023. The methodological quality of the studies was assessed using the Quality Assessment Tool for Observational Cohort and Cross-Sectional Studies (QATOCCS). (3) Results: 14 selected articles were analyzed, in which population samples and variables related to psychological and sexual health were examined. In total, 42.9% of the studies included clinical samples, 71.4% focused on anxiety and depression as the main psychological variables, and 50% examined female sexual functioning as a sexual health variable. (4) Conclusions: This review provides more up-to-date information about valuable insights into the possible determinants of female sexual health. An association between PWB and female sexual health has been demonstrated.
CRI-Based Smart Lighting System That Provides Characteristics of Natural Light
Authors: Oh Seung-Taek , Lim Jae-Hyun
Published: November 2023

Natural light continuously changes its correlated color temperature (CCT) from sunrise to sunset, providing the best color reproducibility and healthy light. In the lighting field, efforts have been made to improve the Color Rendering Index (CRI) to provide light quality at the same level as natural light. A unique light source technology that mixes and controls multiple LED light sources with different spectral or CCT characteristics or provides a high color rendering index has been introduced. However, the characteristics of natural light, which provide high CRI light while changing color temperature every moment, could not be reproduced as they were. Therefore, in this paper, we propose a CRI-based smart lighting system that reproduces natural light characteristics, provides light with high color reproducibility, and maintains homeostasis even under the changing environment of natural light CCT. After extracting the CCT for each day from the characteristics of measured natural light, the light with the highest CRI under the CCT condition for each hour was provided through a CRI-based CCT matching algorithm. Performance evaluation was conducted for four-channel LED experimental lighting. For each clear and cloudy day, daily natural light was reproduced with a light quality higher than average CRI 98 within the MAE range of CCT 6.78 K.
Influence of Compaction Energy on the Mechanical Performance of Hot Mix Asphalt with a Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement (RAP) and Rejuvenating Additive
Authors: Limón-Covarrubias Pedro , Ochoa-Ambriz Leonardo Ambrosio , Avalos-Cueva David , Galaviz-González José Roberto , Pérez-Rea María de la Luz , Gallardo-Sánchez Manuel Alberto
Published: November 2023

The Mexican asphalt paving industry is increasingly interested in using reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) to produce hot mix asphalt (HMA) due to its economic and environmental advantages. However, an ill-defined methodology for integrating RAP into the HMA mix design has hindered its use. This paper investigates how compaction energy affects both rejuvenated and non-rejuvenated recycled HMA mixtures. A Superpave gyratory compactor was used to determine the optimal binder content and find a balance between flexibility and stiffness that meets cracking and rutting resistance requirements. Various recycled HMA mixtures were subjected to different compaction energy levels (75, 100, and 125 gyros), different RAP contents (15%, 30%, and 45%), and various dosages (10%, 15%, and 36%) of the rejuvenating additive Maro-1000®, following the blending chart. Performance was evaluated using the Hamburg wheel tracking test (HWTT) and the fracture energy flexibility index test (I-FIT). The results demonstrate that mixtures with RAP, a rejuvenating admixture, and varying compaction energies exhibit favorable mechanical behavior. However, both rejuvenated and non-rejuvenated mixes with 15% RAP showed performance comparable to conventional mixtures. They improved stiffness by up to 46% while reducing the flexibility index to 25%, striking a balanced equilibrium between rutting resistance and cracking susceptibility.
Seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis under Disease-Modifying Therapies: A Multi-Centre Study
Authors: Sancho-Saldaña Agustín , Gil-Sánchez Anna , González-Mingot Cristina , Peralta Silvia , Solana Maria Jose , Torres Pascual , Juanes Alba , Quibus Laura , Ruiz Emilio , Sanpedro Eduardo , Quirant-Sánchez Bibiana , Martínez-Cáceres Eva , Ramo Tello Cristina , Presas-Rodríguez Silvia , García Rubio Sebatián , Baron Beatriz Pardiñas , Ramió-Torrentà Lluís , Sotoca Javier , González-Suárez Inés , Eichau Sara , Prieto-González José M. , Blasco Quilez Maria Rosario , Sabín-Muñoz Julia , Sánchez-López Antonio José , Llorens Calatayud Gloria , Calles Carmen , Sempere Ángel Pérez , Garcés Moises , Carmona Olga , Moral Ester , Hervás José Vicente , Blanco Yolanda , Sola-Valls Nuria , Tellez Lara Nieves , Forero Lucía , Brieva Luis
Published: November 2023

Background: The EMCOVID project conducted a multi-centre cohort study to investigate the impact of COVID-19 on patients with Multiple Sclerosis (pwMS) receiving disease-modifying therapies (DMTs). The study aimed to evaluate the seroprevalence and persistence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in MS patients enrolled in the EMCOVID database. The DMTs were used to manage MS by reducing relapses, lesion accumulation, and disability progression. However, concerns arose regarding the susceptibility of pwMS to COVID-19 due to potential interactions between SARS-CoV-2 and the immune system, as well as the immunomodulatory effects of DMTs. Methods: This prospective observational study utilized data from a Multiple Sclerosis and COVID-19 (EMCOVID-19) study. Demographic characteristics, MS history, laboratory data, SARS-CoV-2 serology, and symptoms of COVID-19 were extracted for pwMS receiving any type of DMT. The relationship between demographics, MS phenotype, DMTs, and COVID-19 was evaluated. The evolution of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies over a 6-month period was also assessed. Results: The study included 709 pwMS, with 376 patients providing samples at the 6-month follow-up visit. The seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies was higher among pwMS than the general population, with Interferon treatment being significantly associated with greater seroprevalence (16.9% vs. 8.4%; p 0.003). However, no other specific DMT showed a significant association with antibody presence. A total of 32 patients (8.5%) tested positive for IgG, IgM, or IgA antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 at baseline, but then tested negative at 6 months. Most of the pwMS in the cohort were asymptomatic for COVID-19 and, even among symptomatic cases, the prognosis was generally favourable. Conclusion: pwMS undergoing DMTs exhibited a higher seroprevalence of COVID-19 than the general population. Interferon treatment was associated with a higher seroprevalence, suggesting a more robust humoral response. This study provides valuable insights into the seroprevalence and persistence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in pwMS and contributes to our understanding of the impact of COVID-19 amongst this population.
Novel Left-Sided Thoracoscopic Approach to Recurrent Tracheoesophageal Fistula and Post-Fistula Tracheal Diverticula
Authors: Patkowski Dariusz , Toczewski Krystian , Ergun Ergun
Published: November 2023

Background: Recurrent tracheoesophageal fistula (RTEF) is usually a consequence of leakage or other complications after esophageal atresia repair performed through right-sided access. This results in extensive intrapleural adhesions, and open redo surgery poses a challenge. Alternatively, endoscopic endotracheal fistula obliteration usually requires repetitive procedures, and its success rate varies significantly between centers. We present a novel approach to recurrent fistulas. The innovation is in reaching the fistula through the virgin field via left-sided three-port thoracoscopy instead of classical right-sided thoracotomy. Methods: This is a presentation of a new operative technique based on a retrospective case series of patients operated on at our department between 2016 and 2023. Results: Eight patients after esophageal atresia repair (six with RTEF and two with post-fistula tracheal diverticula) were successfully treated with left-sided thoracoscopy. There were no conversions. One patient required rethoracoscopy for chylothorax. Another one, after RTEF closure, underwent multiple endoscopic obliterations of subsequent tracheal diverticulum. No other major complications nor re-recurrences were noted. Conclusions: Left-sided thoracoscopy in redo esophageal atresia has the advantage of a “virgin” operative field and grants feasible access to the RTEF or tracheal diverticulum. We believe that this approach is worth further exploration because it combines minimal invasiveness with high effectiveness without all the consequences of a thoracotomy.
The Relationship between Dynapenic Abdominal Obesity and Fall: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of 15,506 Middle to Older Adults
Authors: Kao Ching-Yun , Su Yu-Chen , Chang Shu-Fang
Published: November 2023

Background: The main objective of this study was to investigate the risk of falls among middle-aged and older adults with dynapenic abdominal obesity. Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted to review and analyze relevant studies. Dynapenia was measured by handgrip strength, and abdominal obesity was measured by waist circumference. The search keywords included “older people” OR “elderly” OR “middle age” AND “dynapenia” AND “abdominal obesity” AND “fall.” The search was not limited by time and included articles published up until April 2023. The literature search process followed the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines, involving extraction and examination of the retrieved relevant articles. Systematic literature searches were performed in databases such as Embase, PubMed, MEDLINE, CINAHL, and Cochrane Library. Results: This study collected a total of eight articles with a combined sample size of 15,506 participants. The findings revealed that the average follow-up period for falls was 6.6 years (SD = 3.67). The overall results of the study showed that individuals with dynapenic abdominal obesity had a higher risk of falls compared to those without dynapenic abdominal obesity (RR = 6.91, 95% CI: 5.42–8.80). Subgroup analysis demonstrated that both prospective studies (HR = 6.61; 95% CI = 4.29–10.20) and retrospective studies (OR = 7.37; 95% CI = 5.13–10.59) consistently found a higher risk of falls among individuals with dynapenic abdominal obesity. However, there was no significant difference in fall risk between community-dwelling individuals with dynapenic abdominal obesity and hospitalized individuals with dynapenic abdominal obesity (Qbetweenx2 = 0.29, p = 0.58). Additionally, there was no difference in fall risk between individuals with dynapenic abdominal obesity residing in Europe and Latin America compared to those residing in Asia (Qbetweenx2 = 0.05, p = 0.81). It was worth noting that male individuals with dynapenic abdominal obesity had a higher risk of falls compared to females (Qbetweenx2 = 4.73, p = 0.03). Conclusions: Empirical studies have demonstrated that individuals with dynapenic abdominal obesity have a higher risk of falls. Therefore, healthcare professionals should conduct early fall risk assessments and develop effective preventive strategies specifically targeted at individuals with dynapenic abdominal obesity.
Associations between Rheumatoid Arthritis and Various Comorbid Conditions in Germany—A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Imanuel Candice Aphroditta , Sivatheesan Sathiha , Koyanagi Ai , Smith Lee , Konrad Marcel , Kostev Karel
Published: November 2023

Aims: The aim of the present study was to estimate the prevalence of physical and mental health comorbidities in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in Germany, in order to better understand the complex clinical picture and its consequences. Methods: This retrospective cohort study was based on data from the IQVIA Disease Analyzer database and included individuals aged ≥ 16 years with an initial documented diagnosis of RA between 2015 and 2021 (index date). RA patients were matched 1:1 with non-RA individuals using nearest neighbor propensity score matching. The study investigated associations between RA and various disorders documented within 365 days after the index date. The cumulative incidence of defined disorders was calculated for individuals with and without RA. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to study these associations. Results: Data were available for a total of 49,713 patients with and 49,713 patients without RA (mean age: 60.4 (SD: 15.5) years; 66.7% female). A significant and clinically relevant positive association was observed between RA and seven disorders: soft tissue disorders (Odds Ratio (OR): 1.47; 95% Confidence Interval (CI): 1.42–1.52), renal failure (OR: 1.36; 95% CI: 1.26–1.47), anemia (OR: 1.32; 95% CI: 1.24–1.40), liver diseases (OR: 1.32, 95% CI: 1.23–1.41), osteopathies and chondropathies (OR: 1.28; 95% CI: 1.22–1.3), diseases of the esophagus, stomach and duodenum (OR: 1.18; 95% CI: 1.14–1.22), and nutritional deficiencies (OR: 1.17; 95% CI: 1.10–1.24). Conclusions: We observed significant associations between RA and several comorbidities, which have clinical relevance for the care of RA patients not only in general practices but also in specialist settings.
Exploring the Pressure Characteristics of the PRESERFLO MicroShunt in In Vitro Studies and Effects of Sclera on Device Performance
Authors: Masdipa Andi , Kaidzu Sachiko , Tanito Masaki
Published: November 2023

This study aims to investigate the pressure characteristics of the PRESERFLO MicroShunt, a microinvasive glaucoma device, using an in vitro setup. Additionally, the study explores the impact of the scleral tissue surrounding the device on its pressure and lumen area. Ten PRESERFLO MicroShunts were subjected to an in vitro experimental setup. A constant flow of physiological saline was maintained at 2 μL/min using an infusion syringe pump. The PRESERFLO was connected to a pressure transducer via a 23 G needle. Pressure characteristics were measured under three different conditions: without sclera [sclera (-)], passing through sclera at a 90° angle (sclera 90°), and passing through sclera at a 30° angle (sclera 30°). The lumen area of the device was measured using microscopic observation. We observed peak and trough pressures in this experimental setting; the peak pressure (6.76 mmHg) was significantly higher than the trough pressure of 4.74 mmHg (p = 0.0020) in the sclera (-) condition. Compared to sclera (-), the peak pressures were significantly higher in the sclera 90° (7.81 mmHg, p = 0.0020) and the sclera 30° (7.96 mmHg, p = 0.0039) conditions. Additionally, compared to sclera (-), the trough pressure was significantly higher in the sclera 90° (6.25 mmHg, p = 0.0039) and the sclera 30° (5.76 mmHg, p = 0.037) conditions. The lumen area was significantly smaller in the sclera 90° condition (3515 μm2) than the sclera (-) condition (3927 μm2, p = 0.0078). The study found that when the distal end of PRESERFLO MicroShunt was free and in air, it exhibited both peak and trough pressures. The presence of scleral tissue surrounding the PRESERFLO MicroShunt affects its lumen area and pressure characteristics. Understanding these effects can provide valuable insights into the device’s performance.
Physical Exercise and Dietary Supplementation in Middle-Aged and Older Women: A Systematic Review
Authors: Sánchez-García Juan Carlos , López Hernández Daniel , Piqueras-Sola Beatriz , Cortés-Martín Jonathan , Reinoso-Cobo Andrés , Menor-Rodríguez María José , Rodríguez-Blanque Raquel
Published: November 2023

With the aging of the population in developed countries, the number of middle-aged and older women is progressively increasing. During this stage, women suffer from a number of signs and symptoms that could be reduced or treated with physical exercise and dietary supplements. The main objective of this study was to analyse the benefits of exercise and dietary supplements during menopause. Materials and methods: A systematic review of the scientific literature was performed according to the PRISMA 2020 protocol, searching the PubMed, Cochrane, Scopus, and WOS databases. Studies that met the inclusion criteria were assessed for methodological quality using the PEDro or AMSTAR-2 scales. Results: The searches yielded a total of 104 results, of which 10 were selected, with methodological quality ranging from fair to excellent. Each article examined the combination of a dietary supplement plan versus a placebo; plus an exercise routine versus another routine or a sedentary lifestyle. The results showed the benefits of combining a nutritional supplementation plan with an exercise routine during menopause. Conclusions: The practice of weekly strength and endurance exercises, together with the consumption of certain dietary supplements, may be a good resource for coping with menopause in a healthy way.
Features of Seismological Observations in the Arctic Seas
Authors: Krylov Artem A. , Novikov Mikhail A. , Kovachev Sergey A. , Roginskiy Konstantin A. , Ilinsky Dmitry A. , Ganzha Oleg Yu. , Ivanov Vladimir N. , Timashkevich Georgy K. , Samylina Olga S. , Lobkovsky Leopold I. , Semiletov Igor P.
Published: November 2023

This paper is devoted to the features of seismological observations in the Arctic seas, which are complicated by harsh climatic conditions, the presence of ice cover, stamukhi and icebergs, and limited navigation. Despite the high risk of losing expensive equipment, the deployment of local networks of bottom seismographs or stations installed on ice is still necessary for studying the seismotectonic characteristics and geodynamic processes of the region under consideration, the deep structure of the crust and upper mantle, seismic hazards, and other marine geohazards. Various types of seismic stations used for long-term and short-term deployments in the Russian sector of the Arctic Ocean, as well as various schemes and workflows for their deployment/recovery, are described. The characteristics of seafloor seismic noise and their features are also considered. The results of deployments demonstrate that the characteristics of the stations make it possible to reliably record earthquake signals and seismic noise. Based on the experience gained, it was concluded that the preferred schemes for deploying ocean-bottom seismographs are those in which their subsequent recovery does not depend on their power resources. Usually, such schemes allow for the possibility of dismantling stations via trawling and are suitable for the shelf depths of the sea. The advantages of such schemes include the possibility of installing additional hydrophysical and hydrobiological equipment. When using pop-up ocean-bottom seismographs, special attention should be paid to the careful planning of the recovery because its success depends on the possibility of a passage to the deployment site, which is not always possible due to changing meteorological and ice conditions. Seismic records obtained on the seafloor are characterized by a high noise level, especially during periods of time when there is no ice cover. Therefore, it is recommended to install bottom stations for periods of time when ice cover is present. The frequency range of the prevailing noise significantly overlaps with the frequency range of earthquake signals that must be taken into account when processing bottom seismic records.
Prevalence of Serum Antibody Titers against Core Vaccine Antigens in Italian Cats
Authors: Dall’Ara Paola , Lauzi Stefania , Turin Lauretta , Servida Francesco , Barbieri Laura , Zambarbieri Jari , Mazzotti Giulia , Granatiero Federico , Scarparo Elena , Mirabile Aurora , Bo Stefano , Filipe Joel
Published: November 2023

Feline core vaccines strongly recommended for all cats are against Feline panleukopenia virus (FPV), Felid herpesvirus type 1 (FeHV-1), and Feline calicivirus (FCV), but cats can be classified as low- and high-risk based on their lifestyle. The aim of this study was to determine the actual seroprotection against FPV, FeHV-1, and FCV in a large cohort of Italian cats by using the VacciCheck test. A total of 740 cats (567 owned and 173 stray cats; 435 vaccinated and 305 unvaccinated) were analyzed for Protective Antibody Titers (PATs). Differences related to origin, sex, age, breed, FIV/FeLV status, health status, and time elapsed since last vaccination were evaluated. Less than half of the entire cohort (36.4%) had PATs for all three diseases simultaneously, increasing to 48.6% if weak positive values were also considered and 50.3% when considering only the 435 vaccinated cats. Particularly, antibodies were detected against FCV, FPV, and FeHV-1 at protective titers (PATs) in 78.6%, 68.1, and 49.1% of the cats, respectively. In general, owned, neutered, and adult FIV- and/or FeLV-negative cats were the most protected categories, even if not always for the three viruses. Most cats maintained high PATs for 3 years or longer after vaccination against FPV and FCV but not FeHV-1. Long-lasting protective immunity persisted for many years after the last vaccination (more than 18 years in the oldest cats). Nevertheless, since not all cats were protected after so many years and for all pathogens, checking protection via antibody titration could be the best choice to prevent immunity breakdowns. The discussion also focuses on the reliability of antibody titration for the two URTD (upper respiratory tract disease) viruses which, unlike for FPV, is not widely accepted as a valid index of protection.
Prediction of SOx-NOx Emission in Coal-Fired Power Plant Using Deep Neural Network
Authors: So Min Seop , Kibet Duncan , Woo Tae Kyeong , Kim Seong-Joon , Shin Jong-Ho
Published: November 2023

Coal has been used as the most commonly energy source for power plants since it is relatively cheap and readily available. Thanks to these benefits, many countries operate coal-fired power plants. However, the combustion of coal in the coal-fired power plant emits pollutants such as sulfur oxides (SOx) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) which are suspected to cause damage to the environment and also be harmful to humans. For this reason, most countries have been strengthening regulations on coal-consuming industries. Therefore, the coal-fired power plant should also follow these regulations. This study focuses on the prediction of harmful emissions when the coal is mixed with high-quality and low-quality coals during combustion in the coal-fired power plant. The emission of SOx and NOx is affected by the mixture ratio between high-quality and low-quality coals so it is very important to decide on the mixture ratio of coals. To decide the coal mixture, it is a prerequisite to predict the amount of SOx and NOx emission during combustion. To do this, this paper develops a deep neural network (DNN) model which can predict SOx and NOx emissions associated with coal properties when coals are mixed. The field data from a coal-fired power plant is used to train the model and it gives mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) of 7.1% and 5.68% for SOx and NOx prediction, respectively.
Branch-and-Bound and Heuristic Algorithms for Group Scheduling with Due-Date Assignment and Resource Allocation
Authors: He Hongyu , Zhao Yanzhi , Ma Xiaojun , Lv Zheng-Guo , Wang Ji-Bo
Published: November 2023

Green scheduling that aims to enhance efficiency by optimizing resource allocation and job sequencing concurrently has gained growing academic attention. To tackle such problems with the consideration of scheduling and resource allocation, this paper considers a single-machine group scheduling problem with common/slack due-date assignment and a controllable processing time. The objective is to decide the optimized schedule of the group/job sequence, resource allocation, and due-date assignment. To solve the generalized case, this paper proves several optimal properties and presents a branch-and-bound algorithm and heuristic algorithms. Numerical experiments show that the branch-and-bound algorithm is efficient and the heuristic algorithm developed based on the analytical properties outruns the tabu search.
The Impact of MRSA Colonization on Healthcare-Associated Infections in Long-Term Care Facility Residents: A Whole-Genome Sequencing-Based Study
Authors: Callejón Fernández Manuel , Abreu Rodríguez Rossana , Arias Ángeles , Aguirre-Jaime Armando , Castro Hernández María Beatriz , Ramos Real María José , Pedroso Fernández Yanet , Lecuona María
Published: November 2023

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) colonization has been considered a risk factor for the development of infection, however, there are no studies that have compared the colonizing and infecting strains using whole-genome sequencing (WGS). The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence of and risk factors for MRSA colonization among long-term care facilities (LTCF) residents of Tenerife (Spain), and to analyze the epidemiological relationship between the colonizing and infecting strains using WGS. A point-prevalence study was carried out at 14 LTCFs in Tenerife from October 2020 to May 2021. Nasal swabs were cultured for MRSA. Colonized residents were followed up for two years. A phylogenetic comparison between colonization and infection strains was performed using WGS. A total of 764 residents were included. The prevalence of colonization by MRSA was 28.1% (n = 215), of which 12 (5.6%) subsequently developed infection. A close genetic relationship between colonization and infection isolates was found in three of the four (75%) residents studied. Our study confirms that colonized residents can develop serious MRSA infections from the same nasal colonization strain. Given the high prevalence of MRSA colonization in these centers, it is necessary to implement strategies with preventive measures to avoid the development of infection and the transmission of MRSA.
From Traditional Dairy Product “Katak” to Beneficial Lactiplantibacillus plantarum Strains
Authors: Dobreva Lili , Borisova Dayana , Paunova-Krasteva Tsvetelina , Dimitrova Petya D. , Hubenov Venelin , Atanasova Nikoleta , Ivanov Ivan , Danova Svetla
Published: November 2023

Traditional milk products, widely consumed in many countries for centuries, have been drawing renewed attention in recent years as sources of bacteria with possible bioprotective properties. One such product for which only limited information exists is the traditional Bulgarian “katak”. This fermented yogurt-like product, renowned for its taste and long-lasting properties, possesses specific sensory characteristics. In this study, 18 lactic acid bacteria (LABs) were isolated from artisanal samples made in the Northwest part of Bulgaria. A polyphasic taxonomic approach combining classical phenotypic and molecular taxonomic methods, such as multiplex PCR, 16S rDNA sequencing, and MALDI-TOF MS, was applied, leading to the identification of 13 strains. The dominance of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum was confirmed. In vitro tests with the identified strains in model systems showed a promising broad strain-specific spectrum of activity against food-borne and human pathogens (Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Escherichia coli). Non-purified Lactobacillus postbiotics, produced during fermentation in skimmed and soya milks and in MRS broth, were estimated as limiting agents of virulence factors. The LAB’s production of lactate, acetate, and butyrate is a promising probiotic feature. A further characterization of the active strains and analysis of the purified post-metabolites are needed and are still in progress.
The Contribution of the Intestinal Microbiota to the Celiac Disease Pathogenesis along with the Effectiveness of Probiotic Therapy
Authors: Zolnikova Oxana , Dzhakhaya Natiya , Bueverova Elena , Sedova Alla , Kurbatova Anastasia , Kryuchkova Kira , Butkova Tatyana , Izotov Alexander , Kulikova Ludmila , Yurku Kseniya , Chekulaev Pavel , Zaborova Victoria
Published: November 2023

The development of many human disorders, including celiac disease (CD), is thought to be influenced by the microbiota of the gastrointestinal tract and its metabolites, according to current research. This study’s goal was to provide a concise summary of the information on the contribution of the intestinal microbiota to the CD pathogenesis, which was actively addressed while examining the reported pathogenesis of celiac disease (CD). We assumed that a change in gluten tolerance is formed under the influence of a number of different factors, including genetic predisposition and environmental factors. In related investigations, researchers have paid increasing attention to the study of disturbances in the composition of the intestinal microbiota and its functional activity in CD. A key finding of our review is that the intestinal microbiota has gluten-degrading properties, which, in turn, may have a protective effect on the development of CD. The intestinal microbiota contributes to maintaining the integrity of the intestinal barrier, preventing the formation of a “leaky” intestine. On the contrary, a change in the composition of the microbiota can act as a significant link in the pathogenesis of gluten intolerance and exacerbate the course of the disease. The possibility of modulating the composition of the microbiota by prescribing probiotic preparations is being considered. The effectiveness of the use of probiotics containing Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium bacteria in experimental and clinical studies as a preventive and therapeutic agent has been documented.