bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impaired Modulation of the Autonomic Nervous System in Adult Patients with Major Depressive Disorder
Authors: Böttcher Elise , Schreiber Lisa Sofie , Wozniak David , Scheller Erik , Schmidt Frank M. , Pelz Johann Otto
Published: June 2024

Patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) have an increased risk for cardiac events. This is partly attributed to a disbalance of the autonomic nervous system (ANS) indicated by a reduced vagal tone and a (relative) sympathetic hyperactivity. However, in most studies, heart rate variability (HRV) was only examined while resting. So far, it remains unclear whether the dysbalance of the ANS in patients with MDD is restricted to resting or whether it is also evident during sympathetic and parasympathetic activation. The aim of this study was to compare the responses of the ANS to challenges that stimulated the sympathetic and, respectively, the parasympathetic nervous systems in patients with MDD. Forty-six patients with MDD (female 27 (58.7%), mean age 44 ± 17 years) and 46 healthy controls (female 26 (56.5%), mean age 44 ± 20 years) underwent measurement of time- and frequency-dependent domains of HRV at rest, while standing (sympathetic challenge), and during slow-paced breathing (SPB, vagal, i.e., parasympathetic challenge). Patients with MDD showed a higher heart rate, a reduced HRV, and a diminished vagal tone during resting, standing, and SPB compared to controls. Patients with MDD and controls responded similarly to sympathetic and vagal activation. However, the extent of modulation of the ANS was impaired in patients with MDD, who showed a reduced decrease in the vagal tone but also a reduced increase in sympathetic activity when switching from resting to standing. Assessing changes in the ANS during sympathetic and vagal activation via respective challenges might serve as a future biomarker and help to allocate patients with MDD to therapies like HRV biofeedback and psychotherapy that were recently found to modulate the vagal tone.
Family Structure, Family Transitions, and Child Overweight and Obesity: Comparing Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States
Authors: Slighting Sadie A. , Rasmussen Kirsten , Dufur Mikaela J. , Jarvis Jonathan A. , Pribesh Shana L. , Alexander Alyssa J. , Otero Carolina
Published: June 2024

Growing rates of childhood obesity globally create concern for individuals’ health outcomes and demands on health systems. While many policy approaches focus on macro-level interventions, we examine how the type of stability of a family structure might provide opportunities for policy interventions at the micro level. We examine the association between family structure trajectories and childhood overweight and obesity across three Anglophone countries using an expanded set of eight family structure categories that capture biological relationships and instability, along with potential explanatory variables that might vary across family trajectories and provide opportunities for intervention, including access to resources, family stressors, family structure selectivity factors, and obesogenic correlates. We use three datasets that are representative of children born around the year 2000 and aged 11 years old in Australia (n = 3329), the United Kingdom (n = 11,542), and the United States (n = 8837) and nested multivariate multinomial logistic regression models. Our analyses find stronger relationships between child overweight and obesity and family structure trajectories than between child obesity and obesogenic factors. Children in all three countries are sensitive to living with cohabiting parents, although in Australia, this is limited to children whose parents have been cohabiting since before their birth. In the UK and US, parents starting their cohabitation after the child’s birth are more likely to have children who experience obesity. Despite a few differences across cross-cultural contexts, most of the relationship between family structures and child overweight or obesity is connected to differences in families’ access to resources and by the types of parents who enter into these family structures. These findings suggest policy interventions at the family level that focus on potential parents’ education and career prospects and on income support rather than interventions like marriage incentives.
Alpha-1-Antitrypsin Deficiency in Children—Unmet Needs Concerning the Liver Manifestation
Authors: Lemke Joelle , Weigert Alexander , Bagci Soyhan , Born Mark , Ganschow Rainer , Katzer David
Published: June 2024

Objectives: This study aimed to analyse the clinical course of 45 children with severe alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency (AATD) registered in our clinic to detect possible predictors of poor outcomes. Methods: The clinical and biological data of 45 patients with homozygous or compound heterozygous AATD were analysed. The data were collected retrospectively going back to 2005 and prospectively from May 2020 until October 2021. It was based on questionnaires, laboratory values, sonography, and biopsy findings. Liver disease was classified into four grades depending on the grade of liver disease: mild or no liver disease, moderate disease, severe disease, and liver transplantation. Results: Thirty-nine patients (86.7%) had a Pi*ZZ and five (11.1%) a Pi*SZ genotype. One patient showed a new, not-yet-described compound heterozygous genotype (Pi*Z + Asp95Asn). A total of 66.7% of the cohort showed mild or no liver disease, 20% moderate, and 13.3% severe. AATD was diagnosed in most cases because of liver abnormalities, such as the elevation of transaminases (42.2%). A total of 29.4% of the patients with neonatal icterus prolongatus developed severe liver disease, and 25.7% were born small for their gestational age (SGA). Diseases of the atopic type were reported in 47.4% of the cases. Conclusions: The presence of neonatal icterus prolongatus in the first weeks of life was significantly more likely in severe courses of liver disease (r = 0.371, p = 0.012). A tendency toward atopic comorbidity in AAT-deficient children needs to be further evaluated.
Chemical Profile and Antioxidant and Tyrosinase Inhibitory Activity of Chamaemelum nobile L. Green Extracts
Authors: Polcaro Luciana Maria , Cerulli Antonietta , Montella Francesco , Ciaglia Elena , Masullo Milena , Piacente Sonia
Published: June 2024

The request for skin-whitening agents and bioactive principles able to control hyperpigmentation disorders is continuously growing. Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) is used as a remedy for skin diseases, but little is known about the ability of Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) to act as a skin-whitening agent. With the aim to investigate antioxidant and lightening potential, fresh aerial parts of C. nobile were extracted by maceration, ultrasound-assisted extraction, and solid–liquid dynamic (SLDE-Naviglio) extraction using EtOH/H2O mixtures. Moreover, 32 metabolites (flavonoids, sesquiterpenoids, amides, and polar fatty acids) were identified by liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry. Principal component analysis revealed how the extract EtOH/H2O 50% (Naviglio and long maceration), along with the extract EtOH/H2O 60% (maceration) were richest in flavonoids. All extracts were tested by TEAC and DPPH assays, and to determine their in vitro antioxidant activity, the DHR 123 probe–intracellular ROS assay in HaCaT cells, for some extracts, was performed. Moreover, their ability to exert a whitening effect was tested by analyzing their tyrosinase inhibitory activity. The quantitative determination of apigenin, known as a natural tyrosinase inhibitor, was performed by LC-ESI/QTrap/MS/MS using the multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) method. These results are promising for selecting an extraction method to obtain a sustainable product rich in bioactives.
Research on Multi-UAV Obstacle Avoidance with Optimal Consensus Control and Improved APF
Authors: Zhang Pengfei , He Yin , Wang Zhongliu , Li Shujie , Liang Qinyang
Published: June 2024

To address collision challenges between multi-UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) during obstacle avoidance, a novel formation control method is proposed. Leveraging the concept of APF (artificial potential field), the proposed approach integrates UAV maneuver constraints with a consensus formation control algorithm, optimizing UAV velocities through the particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm. The optimal consensus control algorithm is then employed to achieve the optimal convergence rate of the UAV formation. To mitigate the limitations of traditional APF, a collinear force deflection angle is introduced, along with an obstacle avoidance method aimed at preventing UAVs from being trapped in locally optimal solutions. Additionally, an obstacle avoidance algorithm based on virtual force fields between UAVs is designed. Comparative analysis against the basic algorithm demonstrates the effectiveness of the designed optimal consensus algorithm in improving formation convergence performance. Moreover, the improved APF resolves local optimal solution issues, enabling UAVs to effectively navigate around obstacles. Simulation results validate the efficacy of this method in achieving multi-UAV formation control while effectively avoiding obstacles.
Performance Evaluation of Mobile RPL-Based IoT Networks under Hello Flood Attack
Authors: Hkiri Amal , Alqurashi Sami , Ben Bahri Omar , Karmani Mouna , Faraj Hamzah , Machhout Mohsen
Published: June 2024

The RPL protocol is essential for efficient communication within the Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem, yet it remains vulnerable to various attacks, particularly in dense and mobile environments where it shows certain limitations and susceptibilities. This paper presents a comprehensive simulation-based analysis of the RPL protocol’s vulnerability to the Hello Flood attack in mobile environments. Using four different group mobility models—the Column Mobility Model (CMM), Reference Point Group Mobility Model (RPGM), Nomadic Community Mobility Model (NCM), and Pursue Mobility Model (PMM)—within the Cooja simulator, this study uniquely investigates the Hello Flood attack in mobile settings, an area previously overlooked. Our systematic evaluation focuses on critical performance metrics, including the Packet Delivery Ratio (PDR), End-to-End Delay (E2ED), throughput, Expected Transmission Count (ETX), and Average Power Consumption (APC). The findings reveal several key insights: PDR decreases significantly, indicating increased packet loss or delivery failures; ETX values rise, necessitating more packet retransmissions and routing hops; E2ED increases, introducing delays in routing decisions and data transmission times; throughput declines as the attack disrupts data flow; and APC escalates due to higher energy usage on packet transmissions, especially over extended paths. These results underscore the urgent need for robust security measures to protect RPL-based IoT networks in mobile environments. Furthermore, our work emphasizes the exacerbated impact of the attack in mobile scenarios, highlighting the evolving security requirements of IoT networks.
A Review of the Multi-Stakeholder Process for Salmon Recovery and Scenario Mapping onto Stability Landscapes
Authors: Hill Gregory M. , Kolmes Steven A.
Published: June 2024

We review and draw distinctions between positions held by various federal agencies, tribal agencies, and civil society organizations to identify distinct stakeholder scenarios for salmonid recovery in the Columbia River Basin. We view the Columbia River Basin through a resilience lens from the point of view of the resident endangered salmonid populations. Using the resilience concept of multiple stable states we describe a stability landscape for the basin as a social–ecological system. We use a shared stability landscape as a common locus for mapping and comparing multiple scenarios representing distinct stakeholder perspectives of pathways towards salmon recovery. We found that the potential of using this approach goes well beyond the specifics of the Columbia River Basin.
Numerical Investigation of Flow Structures and Combustion Mechanisms with Different Injection Locations in a Hydrogen-Fueled Scramjet Combustor
Authors: Xi Wenxiong , Liu Pengchao , Zhang Rongdi , Dong Tianyang , Liu Jian
Published: June 2024

This work primarily focuses on a three-dimensional model of flame propagation and stable combustion in a scramjet chamber. The one-equation LES turbulence model is adopted to close the sub-grid-scale turbulent viscosity terms. The finite-rate combustion model, along with the Jachimowski detailed hydrogen reaction mechanism with eight components and nineteen steps, is used to analyze the flame propagation characteristics of hydrogen combustion in the scramjet combustion chamber. Initially, based on the combustion chamber model, the effect of different injection locations and equivalence ratios on flame kernel formation and the flame propagation process is analyzed. The relationship between different fuel injection conditions and the oxygen consumption rate of the combustion chamber, as well as the total pressure recovery coefficient changes, is investigated. The research focuses on changes in equivalence ratios and injection hole distributions, with injection holes arranged upstream, downstream, and inside of the cavity. The result indicated that when the injection holes were arranged downstream of the cavity, there was a phenomenon of flame backflow into the cavity, which was related to the size of the injection pressure. For this work, the pressure causing flame backflow was approximately 2 MPa. When the injection hole was arranged inside the cavity, the relative distance difference between the injection hole and the upper wall of the cavity led to the formation of two reaction zones in the combustion chamber. When the injection hole was arranged upstream of the cavity, different injection equivalence ratios affected the final stable position and structure of the flame. Therefore, the injection position, injection pressure, and injection equivalence ratio all had a certain impact on the flame kernel formation and flame propagation process.
Day of the Week Effect on the World Exchange Rates through Fractal Analysis
Authors: Kristjanpoller Werner , Miranda Tabak Benjamin
Published: June 2024

The foreign exchange rate market is one of the most liquid and efficient. In this study, we address the efficient analysis of this market by verifying the day-of-the-week effect with fractal analysis. The presence of fractality was evident in the return series of each day and when analyzing an upward trend and a downward trend. The econometric models showed that the day-of-the-week effect in the studied currencies did not align with previous studies. However, analyzing the Hurst exponent of each day revealed that there a weekday effect in the fractal dimension. Thirty main world currencies from all continents were analyzed, showing weekday effects according to their fractal behavior. These results show a form of market inefficiency, as the returns or price variations of each day for the analyzed currencies should have behaved similarly and tended towards random walks. This fractal day-of-the-week effect in world currencies allows us to generate investment strategies and to better complement or support buying and selling decisions on certain days.
Well-Posedness and Hyers–Ulam Stability of Fractional Stochastic Delay Systems Governed by the Rosenblatt Process
Authors: AlNemer Ghada , Hosny Mohamed , Udhayakumar Ramalingam , Elshenhab Ahmed M.
Published: June 2024

Under the effect of the Rosenblatt process, the well-posedness and Hyers–Ulam stability of nonlinear fractional stochastic delay systems are considered. First, depending on fixed-point theory, the existence and uniqueness of solutions are proven. Next, utilizing the delayed Mittag–Leffler matrix functions and Grönwall’s inequality, sufficient criteria for Hyers–Ulam stability are established. Ultimately, an example is presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of the obtained findings.
Lifestyle Medicine in Focus: A Cross-Sectional Study Comparing Domestic and International Students
Authors: Kovács Eszter , Rekenyi Viktor , Nánási Anna , Szepesi Csongor István , Indrayathi Putu Ayu , Horváth Nóra , Csirmaz Angéla , Marjai Gréta , Róbert Kolozsvári László
Published: June 2024

This study investigated lifestyle factors among Hungarian and international students, utilizing lifestyle medicine principles to enhance overall well-being. Conducted at the University of Debrecen through a cross-sectional survey, we examined selected lifestyle factors, more specifically sleep patterns, weight management, nutrition, physical activity, mental well-being, and alcohol use. Hungarian (N = 122) and international (N = 139) students were compared, revealing significant differences. Hungarian students slept less (p = 0.041), desired weight loss (p = 0.040), ate more fruits and vegetables (p = 0.014), exercised longer (p = 0.002), and reported higher purpose and social support (p = 0.009), with higher alcohol use (p < 0.001). These findings highlight distinct experiences and challenges faced by these student groups including variations in sleep, weight management, diet, exercise, and social support. Targeted interventions and tailored support are essential to address their specific needs. To promote the well-being of both Hungarian and international students, educational programs addressing various facets of a healthy lifestyle are crucial. This study offers valuable insights into lifestyle factors and health outcomes among Hungarian and international students and underscores the importance of addressing the unique needs of each group through tailored interventions.
Understanding the Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Mental Health among a Sample of University Workers in the United Arab Emirates
Authors: Misra Anamika V. , Mamdouh Heba M. , Dani Anita , Mitchell Vivienne , Hussain Hamid Y. , Ibrahim Gamal M. , Kotb Reham , Alnakhi Wafa K.
Published: June 2024

Research on the mental health of university staff during the COVID-19 pandemic has uncovered a high prevalence of probable anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder among academic and non-academic staff in many parts of the world. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of anxiety, depressive symptoms, and resilience among a sample of faculty and staff members working in the Higher College of Technology campuses in the UAE. From September to November 2021, a cross-sectional study was carried out using an online survey. The Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item scale, The Patient Health Questionnaire (9-items), and the Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale were used to assess anxiety, depression, and resilience. The impact of COVID-19 was assessed using a designated list of questions. The results demonstrated that the COVID-19 pandemic had impacted the mental health of the studied sample of university workers, with almost 16% of the participants having moderate-to-severe depression and anxiety symptoms. This study highlighted significant differences in the participants’ depressive and anxiety symptoms due to sociodemographic differences. Depression and anxiety symptoms were most prevalent among females, those of UAE nationality, and never-married workers, with females scoring 5.81 on the PHQ-9 compared to only 4.10 in males, p = 0.004 *. UAE-national participants had significantly higher mean PHQ-9 scores than their non-national counterparts (6.37 ± 5.49 SD versus 4.77 ± 5.1 SD, respectively, p = 0.040 *). Overall, the total mean scores of all participants were below the assumed cut-off threshold of having a high resilience level (29.51 ± 7.53 SD). The results showed a significant difference in severe depression symptoms as a result of the impact of COVID-19. These results could imply that the COVID-19 pandemic might have augmented negative mental health impacts on this sample of university workers. This study highlighted some areas where the responsible authorities can intervene to further protect and enhance the mental health of university workers, particularly after the COVID-19 pandemic.
Impact of Social Capital on Health Behaviors of Middle-Aged and Older Adults in China—An Analysis Based on CHARLS2020 Data
Authors: Wang Zheyu , Fang Yong , Zhang Xingwei
Published: June 2024

To actively respond to the challenges posed by population aging, people are paying more and more attention to healthy behavioral lifestyles, and the impact of social capital as an informal system on health behaviors cannot be ignored. This paper explores the impact of social capital on health behaviors of middle-aged and older adults based on 2020 CHARLS data. Using binary logistic regression models, we discussed the association between social capital and five health behaviors. The results suggest that structural social capital significantly increases physical activity and physical examination behaviors among middle-aged and older adults but also decreases the probability of abstinence behaviors. Cognitive social capital increases the probability that middle-aged and older adults will have a reasonable amount of sleep and physical activity. However, it also decreases the probability that smoking cessation behaviors will occur. Further attention needs to be paid to the role of social capital, the creation of a harmonious social environment and the enhancement of social trust, the strengthening of communities and grass-roots social organizations, and the provision of more platforms for the participation of middle-aged and older adults in social activities, to improve the quality of the healthy lives of middle-aged and older adults and, in turn, to promote the establishment of healthy behaviors.
Factors Influencing Dementia Care Competence among Care Staff: A Mixed-Methods Systematic Review Protocol
Authors: Zhu Jinfeng , Wang Jing , Zhang Bo , Zhang Xi , Wu Hui
Published: June 2024

Background: Dementia care competence is defined as the ability, acquired through practical experience, to deliver high-quality care services to persons with dementia (PWD). However, many studies only focus on one aspect of competence using qualitative or quantitative research design and have small sample sizes of care staff with dementia. This study aims to conduct a mixed-methods systematic review of the factors influencing the competence of dementia care staff, and explore the relationship between these factors and competence. Methods: This review was designed following the PRISMA-P 2015 statement and methodological guidance for the conduct of mixed-methods systematic reviews from the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI). Seven English and four Chinese databases will be searched to systematically review the existing eligible studies. JBI Critical Appraisal Checklist for Qualitative Research and Analytical Cross-Sectional Studies will be used to assess the methodological quality of each study. A JBI Mixed-Methods Data Extraction Form will be applied for data extraction. The JBI convergent integrated approach will be used for data synthesis and integration. The synthesized findings will be graded according to the JBI ConQual approach as high, moderate, low, or very low. The protocol was registered with PROSPERO in October 2023 (CRD42023474093).
Determination of Saffron Flower Metabolites by Near-Infrared Spectroscopy for Quality Control
Authors: Escobar-Talavera Jorge F. , Martínez-Navarro María Esther , Alonso Gonzalo L. , Sánchez-Gómez Rosario
Published: June 2024

Saffron, obtained by dehydrating the stigmas of the Crocus sativus flower, is a spice of great importance. In saffron, the flower emerges before leaf formation, thanks to the nutritional reserves of the corm. Early knowledge of metabolite levels such as crocins, picrocrocin, safranal, anthocyanins, or kaempferols in flowers serves as a guide to evaluate the quality of the corm (coloring power, flavor, aroma, or antioxidant capacity, among others). In this study, near-infrared spectroscopy (NIR) was calibrated and validated to determine the main saffron metabolites, both in stigmas and in floral residue. To achieve this, saffron flowers from different locations of the Denomination of Origin (D.O.) “Azafrán de La Mancha” (Castilla-La Mancha, Spain) were analyzed using NIR spectroscopy. Prior to this, samples were analyzed by RP-HPLC-DAD, where the concentration of all cited metabolites was determined. The development of a predictive model through NIR calibration and validation was successful, achieving high R2 values, especially in the case of the sum of crocins and kaempferol-3-O-β-sophoroside. Using these predictive models, it is possible to determine the quality of saffron corm by analyzing the flower.
Salt Tolerance Assessment of Different Tomato Varieties at the Seedling Stage
Authors: Bogoutdinova Liliya R. , Khaliluev Marat R. , Chaban Inna A. , Gulevich Alexander A. , Shelepova Olga V. , Baranova Ekaterina N.
Published: June 2024

The identification of reliable physiological and biochemical indicators for assessing tomato salt tolerance can increase the efficiency of plant breeding to create new varieties and lines. The purpose of our study was to identify available physiological and biochemical relevant characteristics for assessing the sensitivity to sodium chloride salinity of different tomato genotypes at the seedling stage. A complex analysis was carried out based on indicators such as biomass growth, water content of plant tissues, content of readily soluble salts, sodium and chlorine ions, photosynthetic pigments, carotenoids, phenolic compounds and flavonoids. Additionally, the stomata area of the upper and lower epidermis was taken into account. The comprehensive assessment carried out made it possible to reliably divide the eight studied tomato varieties into two groups: sensitive (Belyij Naliv, Geya, YaLF, Paradigma) and tolerant (Recordsmen, Yuryevskij, Bych’e Serdce, Astrakhanskij). Tomato genotypes that can be classified as sensitive (in order of increasing sensitivity to high concentrations of NaCl (150 mM)) were Belyij Naliv > Geya > YaLF ≥ Paradigma. Tomato genotypes that can be classified as resistant to salt stress (in order of increasing tolerance to high concentrations of NaCl (150 mM)) were Recordsmen < Yuryevskij < Bych’e Serdce < Astrakhanskij. The advisability of only using complex physiological and biochemical indicators to obtain relevant assessments for salinity tolerance at the early stages of tomato plant development has been demonstrated.
PlantSR: Super-Resolution Improves Object Detection in Plant Images
Authors: Jiang Tianyou , Yu Qun , Zhong Yang , Shao Mingshun
Published: June 2024

Recent advancements in computer vision, especially deep learning models, have shown considerable promise in tasks related to plant image object detection. However, the efficiency of these deep learning models heavily relies on input image quality, with low-resolution images significantly hindering model performance. Therefore, reconstructing high-quality images through specific techniques will help extract features from plant images, thus improving model performance. In this study, we explored the value of super-resolution technology for improving object detection model performance on plant images. Firstly, we built a comprehensive dataset comprising 1030 high-resolution plant images, named the PlantSR dataset. Subsequently, we developed a super-resolution model using the PlantSR dataset and benchmarked it against several state-of-the-art models designed for general image super-resolution tasks. Our proposed model demonstrated superior performance on the PlantSR dataset, indicating its efficacy in enhancing the super-resolution of plant images. Furthermore, we explored the effect of super-resolution on two specific object detection tasks: apple counting and soybean seed counting. By incorporating super-resolution as a pre-processing step, we observed a significant reduction in mean absolute error. Specifically, with the YOLOv7 model employed for apple counting, the mean absolute error decreased from 13.085 to 5.71. Similarly, with the P2PNet-Soy model utilized for soybean seed counting, the mean absolute error decreased from 19.159 to 15.085. These findings underscore the substantial potential of super-resolution technology in improving the performance of object detection models for accurately detecting and counting specific plants from images. The source codes and associated datasets related to this study are available at Github.
A Joint Graph-Based Approach for Simultaneous Underwater Localization and Mapping for AUV Navigation Fusing Bathymetric and Magnetic-Beacon-Observation Data
Authors: Chang Shuai , Zhang Dalong , Zhang Linfeng , Zou Guoji , Wan Chengcheng , Ma Wencong , Zhou Qingji
Published: June 2024

Accurate positioning is the necessary basis for autonomous underwater vehicles (AUV) to perform safe navigation in underwater tasks, such as port environment monitoring, target search, and seabed exploration. The position estimates of underwater navigation systems usually suffer from an error accumulation problem, which makes the AUVs difficult use to perform long-term and accurate underwater tasks. Underwater simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) approaches based on multibeam-bathymetric data have attracted much attention for being able to obtain error-bounded position estimates. Two problems limit the use of multibeam bathymetric SLAM in many scenarios. The first is that the loop closures only occur in the AUV path intersection areas. The second is that the data association is prone to failure in areas with gentle topographic changes. To overcome these problems, a joint graph-based underwater SLAM approach that fuses bathymetric and magnetic-beacon measurements is proposed in this paper. In the front-end, a robust dual-stage bathymetric data-association method is used to first detect loop closures on the multibeam bathymetric data. Then, a magnetic-beacon-detection method using Euler-deconvolution and optimization algorithms is designed to localize the magnetic beacons using a magnetic measurement sequence on the path. The loop closures obtained from both bathymetric and magnetic-beacon observations are fused to build a joint-factor graph. In the back-end, a diagnosis method is introduced to identify the potential false factors in the graph, thus improving the robustness of the joint SLAM system to outliers in the measurement data. Experiments based on field bathymetric datasets are performed to test the performance of the proposed approach. Compared with classic bathymetric SLAM algorithms, the proposed algorithm can improve the data-association accuracy by 50%, and the average positioning error after optimization converges to less than 10 m.
Applications of the Methylotrophic Yeast Komagataella phaffii in the Context of Modern Biotechnology
Authors: Moraes Lidia Maria Pepe de , Marques Henrique Fetzner , Reis Viviane Castelo Branco , Coelho Cintia Marques , Leitão Matheus de Castro , Galdino Alexsandro Sobreira , Porto de Souza Thais Paiva , Piva Luiza Cesca , Perez Ana Laura Alfonso , Trichez Débora , de Almeida João Ricardo Moreira , De Marco Janice Lisboa , Torres Fernando Araripe Gonçalves
Published: June 2024

Komagataella phaffii (formerly Pichia pastoris) is a methylotrophic yeast widely used in laboratories around the world to produce recombinant proteins. Given its advantageous features, it has also gained much interest in the context of modern biotechnology. In this review, we present the utilization of K. phaffii as a platform to produce several products of economic interest such as biopharmaceuticals, renewable chemicals, fuels, biomaterials, and food/feed products. Finally, we present synthetic biology approaches currently used for strain engineering, aiming at the production of new bioproducts.
Stability Analysis of the Credit Market in Supply Chain Finance Based on Stochastic Evolutionary Game Theory
Authors: Wang Chunsheng , Weng Jiatong , He Jingshi , Wang Xiaopin , Ding Hong , Zhu Quanxin
Published: June 2024

The rapid development of supply chain finance (SCF) has significantly alleviated the financing difficulties of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). However, it is important to recognize that within the accounts receivable financing segment of the SCF credit market, the credit risk associated with SMEs poses a serious challenge and potential threat to the stability, health, and sustainable development of the SCF system. This paper pays special attention to the stability of the two-party evolutionary game between SMEs and financial institutions (FIs) within the context of the Chinese SCF credit market. To identify a pathway to reduce credit risks for SMEs while simultaneously enhancing system stability, this paper adopts the stochastic evolutionary game (SEG) model and combines the fixed-point method to determine the conditions that satisfy the stability of the system’s index p mean square of the system. This study has made attempts in various aspects, such as the innovative construction and investigation of a nonlinear SEG model, the endeavor to study the stability of SEG systems using fixed-point methods, and the innovative construction of a more realistic two-player SEG system. The data and simulation results generated from hypothetical scenarios show that the conclusions of the article are credible and feasible. Through the study, we conclude that the higher credit ratio from FI and the higher penalty intensity from core enterprises (CEs) will accelerate the stability of the system. Based on solid data and modeling analysis, insights into the regulation of FI are provided.
An Analytical Study of the Effects of Kinematic Parameters on the Motion Stability of a 3-RPR Parallel Manipulator in Singular Configurations
Authors: Li Yu-Tong , Wang Yu-Xin
Published: June 2024

Due to the Jacobian matrix rank reduction near singularities, applying numerical methods to study PMs’ motion stability at singularities is quite difficult. As a result, there is a scarcity of literature on the investigation of PMs’ dynamic behaviors near singularities and the influence of kinematic parameters on the motion stability of PMs. To address the research gap related to the above issues, based on the Gerschgorin perturbation method, Hurwitz exact approach, and the Lyapunov dynamic stability theory, the influence of kinematic parameters and external loads on a PM’s motion stability at singularities is studied for the first time. The theoretical analysis results reported in this paper reveal many previously undiscovered features beyond those derived from previous numerical methods, and indicate the limitations of some widely accepted statements. For example, increasing the angular speed of the movable platform can expand the range of the external loads that meet the motion stability at singular configurations. The prevailing notion in prior research that PMs are unable to support external loads in the direction of the gained DoF at singular configurations is only partially accurate. This pioneering research establishes a theoretical foundation for exploring a new real-time approach to avoid dynamic singularities by fully exploiting the influence mechanisms of kinematic parameters on PMs’ dynamic stability at singularities.
Chagas Disease across the Ages: A Historical View and Commentary on Navigating Future Challenges
Authors: Sereno Denis , Oury Bruno , Grijalva Mario J.
Published: June 2024

Chagas disease, discovered over a century ago, continues to pose a global health challenge, affecting millions mainly in Latin America. This historical review with commentary outlines the disease’s discovery, its evolution into a global concern due to migration, and highlights significant advances in diagnostics and treatment strategies. Despite these advancements, the paper discusses ongoing challenges in eradication, including vector control, congenital transmission, the disease’s asymptomatic nature, and socioeconomic barriers to effective management. It calls for a multidisciplinary approach, enhanced diagnostics, improved treatment accessibility, and sustained vector control efforts. The review emphasizes the importance of global collaboration and increased funding to reduce Chagas disease’s impact.
Nocardiosis in Solid Organ Transplant Recipients: 10-Year Single Center Experience and Review of Literature
Authors: Bini Viotti Julia , Simkins Jacques , Reynolds John M. , Ciancio Gaetano , Guerra Giselle , Abbo Lilian , Anjan Shweta
Published: June 2024

Solid organ transplant recipients (SOTRs) are at an increased risk of nocardiosis, a rare but life-threatening opportunistic infection. Universal PCP prophylaxis with trimethoprim–sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX) is used at our center, which is active in vitro against most species of the Nocardia genus and may have a role in preventing early infections. This is a single-center retrospective cohort study of nocardiosis in adult SOTRs at a large transplant center between January 2012 and June 2022, with comprehensive review of literature. Out of 6179 consecutive cases, 13 (0.2%) were diagnosed with nocardiosis. The patients were predominantly male (76.9%) and kidney transplant recipients (62%). Infection was diagnosed at median of 8.8 months (range, 3.7–98) after transplant. Patients were followed for a median of 457 days (range 8–3367). Overall mortality within one year after diagnosis was 46% (6/13), of which 17% (1/6) of deaths was attributable to Nocardia infection. No recurrence was reported. Nocardia infections were noted in a small proportion of our SOTRs and carried significant morbidity and mortality. TMP-SMX prophylaxis may be protective in some cases given low incidence of cases.
Development of an Ex Vivo Porcine Eye Model for Exploring the Pathogenicity of Acanthamoeba
Authors: Shi Ming-Der , Sung Ko-Chiang , Huang Jian-Ming , Chen Chun-Hsien , Wang Yu-Jen
Published: June 2024

Acanthamoeba, a widely distributed free-living amoeba found in various environments, is an opportunistic pathogen responsible for causing Acanthamoeba keratitis, a condition that may lead to blindness. However, identifying the pathogenicity of Acanthamoeba is challenging due to its complex life cycle, ability to adapt to different environments, variable virulence factors, and intricate interactions with the host immune system. Additionally, the development of an effective model for studying Acanthamoeba pathogenicity is limited, hindering a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms underlying its virulence and host interactions. The aim of this study was to develop an ex vivo model for Acanthamoeba infection using porcine eyeballs and to evaluate the pathogenicity of the Acanthamoeba isolates. Based on slit lamp and biopsy analysis, the developed ex vivo model is capable of successfully infecting Acanthamoeba within 3 days. Histopathological staining revealed that clinical isolates of Acanthamoeba exhibited greater corneal stroma destruction and invasion in this model than environmental isolates. Our results highlight the importance of an ex vivo porcine eye model in elucidating the pathogenesis of Acanthamoeba infection and its potential implications for understanding and managing Acanthamoeba-related ocular diseases.
The Politicization of the Event in Deleuze’s Thought
Authors: Alcalá Francisco J.
Published: June 2024

This article attempts to elucidate the Deleuzian philosophy of the event between The Logic of Sense and A Thousand Plateaus, where it acquires clearly political nuances. With regard to The Logic of Sense, I show that (i) it takes up the definition of the event of Difference and Repetition, identifying it with that redistribution of pre-individual singularities or individuating differences at the level of the univocal being which defines the conditions of problems; (ii) the event is henceforth also the instance that makes possible the “communication” of the heterogeneous series of bodies and propositions from which the production of sense in language follows; and (iii) the counter-effectuation should be understood in this book as an ethics of the event. With regard to A Thousand Plateaus, I emphasize (i) the “return” to The Logic of Sense that the concept of assemblage entails, (ii) the reformulation of the notion of event that takes place in the new theoretical framework, and (iii) that of the counter-effectuation, which must henceforth be understood as a politics of the event.
Computerized Olfactronic Identification of Persons Using Comprehensive Two-Dimensional Gas Chromatography with Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Bouška Luděk , Pojmanová Petra , Malá Ulrika , Urban Štěpán
Published: June 2024

This paper demonstrates the possibilities of the computer identification of individuals based on their digitized scent signatures using comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography with mass spectrometry. This identification is performed by comparing an unknown digital scent sample with digital scent signatures in a database. The olfactronic identification of persons performed by computers follows the olfactoric identification currently performed by trained dogs. Olfactoric identification is considered a subjective method, and therefore it needs to be supported by an objective olfactronic method. The results obtained in this study demonstrate the advantages of olfactronic identification. In addition, the olfactronic identification method makes it possible to compare and store in the database hundreds or even thousands of digital scent signatures based on chemical compounds from samples. A higher recognition percentage of identification is achieved when applying two differently constructed signatures. This article shows that with this approach, the comparison algorithm can reach up to 95-percent correct identification for unknown samples. This is quite a novel point and the rationale of this work. In this study, 400 scent samples from 40 volunteers (20 women and 20 men) were analyzed, where ten scent samples were taken from each person.
Existence of a Fixed Point and Convergence of Iterates for Self-Mappings of Metric Spaces with Graphs
Authors: Zaslavski Alexander J.
Published: June 2024

In the present paper, under certain assumptions, we establish the convergence of iterates for self-mappings of complete metric spaces with graphs which are of a contractive type. The class of mappings considered in the paper contains the so-called cyclical mappings introduced by W. A. Kirk, P. S. Srinivasan and P. Veeramani in 2003 and the class of monotone nonexpansive operators. Our results hold in the case of a symmetric graph.
The Concentration of Benzo[a]pyrene in Food Cooked by Air Fryer and Oven: A Comparison Study
Authors: Chen Xiaoxin , Liao Yingxin , Lin Baiwen , He Xing , Li Sibei , Zhong Chenghui , Li Saifeng , Zhou Yun , Fan Lieyang
Published: June 2024

The air fryer utilizes heated air rather than hot oil to achieve frying, eliminating the need for cooking oil, rendering it a healthier cooking method than traditional frying and baking. However, there is limited evidence supporting that the air fryer could effectively reduce the level of food-derived carcinogen. In this study, we compared the concentration of Benzo[a]pyrene (BaP), a typical carcinogen, in beef patties cooked using an air fryer and an oven, under different cooking conditions, including temperatures (140 °C, 160 °C, 180 °C, and 200 °C), times (9, 14, and 19 min), and oil added or not. The adjusted linear regression analysis revealed that the BaP concentration in beef cooked in the air fryer was 22.667 (95% CI: 15.984, 29.349) ng/kg lower than that in beef cooked in the oven. Regarding the air fryer, the BaP concentration in beef cooked without oil brushing was below the detection limit, and it was significantly lower than in beef cooked with oil brushing (p < 0.001). Therefore, cooking beef in the air fryer can effectively reduce BaP concentration, particularly due to the advantage of oil-free cooking, suggesting that the air fryer represents a superior option for individuals preparing meat at high temperatures.
Use of hotel enterprise labor resources
Authors:   Moscow State Technical University N. E. Bauman, Dolgova I. V. , Belyy V. L. ,   Russian University of Economics G. V. Plekhanov
Published: June 2024

The article discusses the issue of using the labor resources of a hotel enterprise from the perspective of their influence on the economic efficiency of the enterprise and strengthening its competitiveness in the hotel services market. Based on the analysis of theoretical approaches to the concept of "enterprise labor resources", a new definition of this concept is given in relation to the hotel enterprise. The author also examines the indicators of the use of labor resources of a hotel enterprise, thereby identifying ways to effectively use labor resources. The article has practical application for enterprises of the hotel industry of the Russian Federation.
Some aspects of ecotourism development
Authors:   Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia, Moscow, Knyazeva Yu. V. , Zeveke O. Yu. ,   Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia, Moscow
Published: June 2024

The article discusses aspects of ecotourism, considers the types and main factors of formation and development.
Features of historical and cultural heritage and the current state of domestic tourism in the Southern region of Vietnam
Authors:   Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia, Moscow, Man T. T. , Bogomolova E. S. ,   Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia, Moscow
Published: June 2024

This article discusses the features of historical and cultural heritage and the current state of domestic tourism in the Southern region of Vietnam. The tangible and intangible cultural heritage in the Southern region of Vietnam is shown, and the features of the historical and cultural heritage in each province are shown. Special attention is paid to the protection and preservation of historical cultural heritage. The article considers the current state of domestic tourism after a long period, which was affected by the restrictions associated with the COVID-19 pandemic.
Escalas de avaliação cognitiva utilizadas por terapeutas ocupacionais: uma revisão da literatura
Authors: Almeida Ribeiro Ana Vitória , Ramos Nunes Daniella , Rosa do Nascimento Ana Paula , Alfaia da Serra Jamily Cristina , Marques Cardoso Marcelo , Maki Omura Kátia
Published: June 2024

Introdução. A demência é definida como alterações que acarretam prejuízos que acometem o desempenho ocupacional do idoso. É importante que haja uma boa avaliação para um diagnóstico precoce, possibilitando a redução de danos futuros na qualidade de vida do idoso. Objetivo. Identificar os instrumentos de avaliação cognitiva que foram mais utilizados pelos terapeutas ocupacionais com idosos demenciados no ano de 2010 a 2020. Método. Realizou-se uma revisão integrativa com um recorte temporal de 11 anos onde foram selecionados artigos escritos por terapeutas ocupacionais. Resultados. A amostra foi composta por 27 artigos contendo uma variedade de instrumentos de avaliação cognitiva, sendo mais utilizado o Mini Exame do Estado Mental, seguido do Clinical Dementia Rating e Montreal Cognitive Assessment. Conclusão. Observou-se a utilização de diversos instrumentos de avaliação cognitiva de idosos, entretanto, poucos eram específicos da Terapia Ocupacional.
Bien-être des petits mammifères médiateurs : enquête auprès de 212 structures de médiation animale de France métropolitaine et élaboration d’un guide de bonnes pratiques
Authors: Duquenne Pauline
Published: June 2024

Small mammals including rabbits, small rodents and ferrets represent a significant portion of the animals used in animal-assisted therapy. Today, we know the numerous benefits they provide to people participating in these ac-tivities. However, very few studies on the well-being of these animal are available. With this in mind, we decided to survey animal-assisted therapists in metropolitan France about the management of living conditions, working conditions, and medical follow-up for their small mammals. A total number of 212 answers were analysed, and around ten interviews were conducted with animal-assisted therapists to discuss areas for improvement. Based on all these results and with the help of animal-assisted the-rapists and veterinarians, a best practices guide was developed to provide knowledge to animal-assisted therapists and improve the well-being of their small mammal mediators.