bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Measurement practices in user experience (UX) research: a systematic quantitative literature review
Authors: Perrig Sebastian A. C. , Aeschbach Lena Fanya , Scharowski Nicolas , von Felten Nick , Opwis Klaus , Brühlmann Florian
Published: March 2024

User experience (UX) research relies heavily on survey scales to measure users' subjective experiences with technology. However, repeatedly raised concerns regarding the improper use of survey scales in UX research and adjacent fields call for a systematic review of current measurement practices. Therefore, we conducted a systematic literature review, screening 153 papers from four years of the ACM Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems proceedings (ACM CHI 2019 to 2022), of which 60 were eligible empirical studies using survey scales to study users' experiences. We identified 85 different scales and 172 distinct constructs measured. Most scales were used once (70.59%), and most constructs were measured only once (66.28%). The System Usability Scale was the most popular scale, followed by the User Experience Questionnaire, and the NASA Task Load Index. Regarding constructs, usability was the most frequently measured, followed by attractiveness, effort, and presence. Furthermore, results show that papers rarely contained complete rationales for scale selection (20.00%) and seldom provided all scale items used (30.00%). More than a third of all scales were adapted (34.19%), while only one-third of papers reported any scale quality investigation (36.67%). On the basis of our results, we highlight questionable measurement practices in UX research and suggest opportunities to improve scale use for UX-related constructs. Additionally, we provide six recommended steps to promote enhanced rigor in following best practices for scale-based UX research.
Role of low-density lipoprotein electronegativity and sexual dimorphism in contributing early ventricular tachyarrhythmias following ST-elevation myocardial infarction
Authors: Wu Mei-Yao , Lee An-Sheng , Lin Yen-Nien , Chung Wei-Hsin , Chen Ke-Wei , Lu Chiung-Ray , Chen Yun-Fang , Chang Chia-Ming , Tsai Wei-Chung , Shiao Yi-Tzone , Chen Chu-Huang , Chang Kuan-Cheng
Published: March 2024

Background

Early ventricular tachycardia/fibrillation (VT/VF) in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) has higher morbidity and mortality. This study examines gender-differentiated risk factors and underlying mechanisms for early onset VT/VF in STEMI.

Methods

We analyzed data from 2,964 consecutive STEMI patients between January 1, 2008 and December 31, 2021. Early VT/VF was defined as occurrence of spontaneous VT/VF of ≥30 s or requirement of immediate cardioversion/defibrillation within the first 48 h after symptoms. An ex vivo ischemic-reperfusion experiments were conducted in 8-week-old ApoE−/− mice fed a high-fat diet to explore the underlying mechanisms of early VT/VF.

Results

In 255 of out 2,964 STEMI patients who experienced early VT/VF, the age was younger (58.6 ± 13.8 vs. 61.0 ± 13.0 years old, P = 0.008) with a male predominance. The plasma levels of L5, the most electronegative subclass of low-density lipoprotein, was higher in early VT/VF patients compared to those without early VT/VF (n = 21, L5: 14.1 ± 22.6% vs. n = 46, L5: 4.3 ± 9.9%, P = 0.016). In the experimental setup, all male mice (n = 4) developed VT/VF post sham operation, whereas no such incidence was observed in the female mice (n = 3). Significantly, male mice exhibited considerably slower cardiac conduction velocity as compared to their female counterparts in whole heart preparations (25.01 ± 0.93 cm/s vs.42.32 ± 5.70 cm/s, P < 0.001), despite analogous action potential durations. Furthermore, isolated ventricular myocytes from male mice showed a distinctly lower sodium current density (−29.20 ± 3.04 pA/pF, n = 6) in comparison to female mice (−114.05 ± 6.41 pA/pF, n = 6, P < 0.001). This decreased sodium current density was paralleled by a reduced membrane expression of Nav1.5 protein (0.38 ± 0.06 vs. 0.89 ± 0.09 A.U., P < 0.001) and increased cytosolic Nav1.5 levels (0.59 ± 0.06 vs. 0.29 ± 0.04 A.U., P = 0.001) in male mice. Furthermore, it was observed that the overall expressions of sorting nexin 27 (SNX27) and vacuolar protein sorting 26 (VPS26) were significantly diminished in male mice as compared to female littermates (0.91 ± 0.15 vs. 1.70 ± 0.28, P = 0.02 and 0.74 ± 0.09 vs. 1.57 ± 0.13, P < 0.01, respectively).

Conclusions

Our findings reveal that male STEMI patients with early VT/VF are associated with elevated L5 levels. The gender-based discrepancy in early VT/VF predisposition might be due to compromised sodium channel trafficking, possibly linked with increased LDL electronegativity.
Antibiotic resistance among Aerobic Gram-Negative Bacilli isolated from patients with oral inflammatory dysbiotic conditions—a retrospective study
Authors: Basic A. , Blomqvist S. , Charalampakis G. , Dahlén G.
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Aerobic gram-negative bacilli (AGNB) are not part of the resident oral microflora but are occasionally found in high abundance under inflammatory dysbiotic conditions at various oral niches. The aim of the present study was to investigate the identity and antibiotic susceptibility of AGNB isolated from patients in Sweden with mucosal lesions, periodontitis, and peri-implantitis, with special attention to antibiotic resistance and on the presence of phenotypic Extended Spectrum Beta-Lactamase (ESBL) isolates.

Materials and methods

Microbiolgical samples were harvested from 211 patients in total, experiencing mucosal lesions (N = 113), periodontitis (N = 62), or peri-implantitis (N = 36). The growth of AGNBs was semiquantified by selective and non-selective culture and the strains were isolated, identified, and tested for antibiotic susceptibility. A total of 251 AGNB strains, occurring in moderate to heavy growth (>100 CFU/ml sample), indicating a dysbiotic microbiota, were identified. The disc diffusion method was used for screening of the antibiotic susceptibility of the isolates. Phenotypic identification of ESBL isolates was based on resistance to ceftazidime and/or cefotaxime.

Results

The most commonly detected AGNB isolates in oral inflammatory dysbiotic conditions were fermentative species belonging to Enterobacteriaceae e.g. Citrobacter spp., Enterobacter spp., Escherichia coli, Klebsiella spp, and the non-fermentative environmental Burkholderia cepacia, Pseudomonas spp., and Stenotrophomonas maltophilia. No clear trends were seen in frequency of the various species in samples from mucosal lesions, severe periodontitis, and peri-implantitis cases. The 138 Enterobacteriaceae isolates and 113 environmental AGNB isolated showed a high antibiotic resistance in general against antibiotics commonly used in dentistry (Amoxicillin, Amoxicillin + Clavulanic acid, Ampicillin, Clindamycin, Doxycycline, Erythromycin, Oxacillin, PenicillinV, and Tetracycline). The majority of these isolates were susceptible to ciprofloxacin. Ten isolates (4.1%) were phenotypically classified as ESBL positive. The ESBL isolates were predominantly found among isolates of S. maltophilia, while only one ESBL positive isolate was found among Enterobacteriaceae.

Conclusions

Phenotypically identified ESBL isolates can occasionally be present among oral AGNB strains isolated in abundance from the dysbiotic microbiota occurring in cases with oral mucosal lesions, severe periodontitis, or peri-implantitis.
Some characteristics of foreshocks and aftershocks of the 2022 ML6.8 Chihshang, Taiwan, earthquake sequence
Authors: Chen Kou-Cheng , Huang Bor-Shouh , Kim Kwang-Hee , Wang Jeen-Hwa
Published: March 2024

Foreshocks and aftershocks occurred before and after the ML6.8 (Mw7.0) earthquake in eastern Taiwan on 18 September 2022. We explore the epicentral distribution and temporal variations for the mainshock, foreshocks, and aftershocks. Most of the events were located in the area around the Longitudinal Valley. Most foreshocks occurred around the mainshock, while the aftershocks happened outwards from the foreshock area. The temporal variations in seismic-wave energy show that the largest foreshock and the mainshock were responsible for releasing most of the energy during the earthquake sequence. In addition, the b values of the Gutenberg-Richter frequency-magnitude law were 0.62 for foreshocks, 0.87 for aftershocks, and 0.71 for the whole seismic activity by using the least squares method and 0.52 for foreshocks, 0.84 for aftershocks, and 0.65 for the whole seismic activity by using the maximum likelihood method. The b values increase from foreshocks to aftershocks, suggesting the possibility that the fluid pressure of faults during foreshocks is higher than that of the faults during aftershocks due to the outward migration of water. The p-value of the Omori-Utsu law for the aftershock sequence was estimated to be 0.92 for all aftershocks in the study, 1.39 for the aftershocks occurred in the first 6 days, and 1.30 for the aftershocks occurred in the first 12 days. The foreshock sequence could not be described by the inverse Omori law.
Systematic review and meta-analysis of the effects of menopause hormone therapy on cognition
Authors: Andy Caroline , Nerattini Matilde , Jett Steven , Carlton Caroline , Zarate Camila , Boneu Camila , Fauci Francesca , Ajila Trisha , Battista Michael , Pahlajani Silky , Christos Paul , Fink Matthew E. , Williams Schantel , Brinton Roberta Diaz , Mosconi Lisa
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Despite evidence from preclinical studies suggesting estrogen’s neuroprotective effects, the use of menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) to support cognitive function remains controversial.

Methods

We used random-effect meta-analysis and multi-level meta-regression to derive pooled standardized mean difference (SMD) and 95% confidence intervals (C.I.) from 34 randomized controlled trials, including 14,914 treated and 12,679 placebo participants.

Results

Associations between MHT and cognitive function in some domains and tests of interest varied by formulation and treatment timing. While MHT had no overall effects on cognitive domain scores, treatment for surgical menopause, mostly estrogen-only therapy, improved global cognition (SMD=1.575, 95% CI 0.228, 2.921; P=0.043) compared to placebo. When initiated specifically in midlife or close to menopause onset, estrogen therapy was associated with improved verbal memory (SMD=0.394, 95% CI 0.014, 0.774; P=0.046), while late-life initiation had no effects. Overall, estrogen-progestogen therapy for spontaneous menopause was associated with a decline in Mini Mental State Exam (MMSE) scores as compared to placebo, with most studies administering treatment in a late-life population (SMD=-1.853, 95% CI -2.974, -0.733; P = 0.030). In analysis of timing of initiation, estrogen-progestogen therapy had no significant effects in midlife but was associated with improved verbal memory in late-life (P = 0.049). Duration of treatment >1 year was associated with worsening in visual memory as compared to shorter duration. Analysis of individual cognitive tests yielded more variable results of positive and negative effects associated with MHT.

Discussion

These findings suggest time-dependent effects of MHT on certain aspects of cognition, with variations based on formulation and timing of initiation, underscoring the need for further research with larger samples and more homogeneous study designs.
Anti-Müllerian hormone, testicular descent and cryptorchidism
Authors: Rey Rodolfo A. , Grinspon Romina P.
Published: March 2024

Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) is a Sertoli cell-secreted glycoprotein involved in male fetal sex differentiation: it provokes the regression of Müllerian ducts, which otherwise give rise to the Fallopian tubes, the uterus and the upper part of the vagina. In the first trimester of fetal life, AMH is expressed independently of gonadotropins, whereas from the second trimester onwards AMH testicular production is stimulated by FSH and oestrogens; at puberty, AMH expression is inhibited by androgens. AMH has also been suggested to participate in testicular descent during fetal life, but its role remains unclear. Serum AMH is a well-recognized biomarker of testicular function from birth to the first stages of puberty. Especially in boys with nonpalpable gonads, serum AMH is the most useful marker of the existence of testicular tissue. In boys with cryptorchidism, serum AMH levels reflect the mass of functional Sertoli cells: they are lower in patients with bilateral than in those with unilateral cryptorchidism. Interestingly, serum AMH increases after testis relocation to the scrotum, suggesting that the ectopic position result in testicular dysfunction, which may be at least partially reversible. In boys with cryptorchidism associated with micropenis, low AMH and FSH are indicative of central hypogonadism, and serum AMH is a good marker of effective FSH treatment. In patients with cryptorchidism in the context of disorders of sex development, low serum AMH is suggestive of gonadal dysgenesis, whereas normal or high AMH is found in patients with isolated androgen synthesis defects or with androgen insensitivity. In syndromic disorders, assessment of serum AMH has shown that Sertoli cell function is preserved in boys with Klinefelter syndrome until mid-puberty, while it is affected in patients with Noonan, Prader-Willi or Down syndromes.
Analysis of stability in pedestrian downhill roadway at Yindonggou 11th coal mine area: the impact of anchor cable support density
Authors: Jinbao Li
Published: March 2024

The study of cable support density’s impact on the stability of rock in mine roadways is vital for personnel safety, equipment protection, and mining operations continuity. This research examines a typical engineering scenario within the 11th mining area pedestrian downhill roadway of Yindonggou Mine. A numerical model is devised, accounting for post-peak evolution of mechanical parameters in the surrounding rockmass, represented by a plastic shear strain-dependent multi-segment linear function. Factors such as vertical displacement of the roof and floor, cable axial force, and changes in the plastic zone were scrutinized to decipher the influence of anchor cable support density on roadway stability. The study revealed the following results: 1) The displacement pattern of the roadway roof initially decreases at a decreasing rate before stabilizing with an increase in calculation time step. However, the floor displacement increases first at a diminishing rate before achieving stability with increased calculation time. 2) As a result of the pulling effect caused by deformation and movement of roof’s surrounding rock, the axial force of the anchor cable initially rises with a declining rate before reaching a virtually constant value with increased computation time. 3) Analysis of the vertical displacement field of the model illustrates that with the rise in support density, the maximum displacement of the model’s top plate sinking and bottom plate elevation gradually reduces. 4) With the increment in support density, the number of units showing a plastic shear strain greater than 0.2, 0.1, and 0.05 tends to decrease, indicating increased stability of the roadway. Furthermore, it was observed that the probability of plastic shear yielding at the junction of the roadway floor and side is high while the shoulder of the roadway reflects a lower probability.
Heterothermy use in winter is associated with reduced litter size during following breeding season
Authors: Boratyński Jan S. , Iwińska Karolina , Zub Karol
Published: March 2024

Heterothermy is considered to be the most effective energy-saving strategy improving survival under natural conditions. Interspecific studies suggest that this strategy is also associated with reduced reproductive output. Yet little is known about the reproductive consequences of heterothermy use at the intraspecific level and thus its repercussions for microevolutionary processes. Moreover, as yet no study has aimed to test if litter size and juvenile mass are affected by torpor use in wild captured animals under undemanding laboratory conditions. Here we tested the hypothesis that intraspecific variation in heterothermy use is associated with different reproductive successes, being the result of the evolution of distinct life histories. We predicted that heterothermy use in winter negatively correlates with litter size and juvenile body mass during the subsequent breeding season. To test this prediction, we used yellow-necked mice from a population in which individuals consistently differ in their use of heterothermy in winter. We measured body size (head width) and body mass, basal metabolic rate, as well as metabolism and body temperature during fasting-induced torpor in wild caught mice in winter. Phenotyped mice were bred in the subsequent summer selectively – males and females with similar heterothermy characteristics were paired, the most to the least heterothermic. Dam body size, but not basal metabolism, was positively correlated with litter size (but not juvenile mass). However, when accounting for this relationship, litter size was negatively while juvenile mass was positively correlated with the average heterothermy use of a given couple. Our study indicates that heterothermy use correlates with specific life-history strategies arising from a fundamental evolutionary trade-off between survival and reproduction.
The knowns and unknowns of long COVID-19: from mechanisms to therapeutical approaches
Authors: Gheorghita Roxana , Soldanescu Iuliana , Lobiuc Andrei , Caliman Sturdza Olga Adriana , Filip Roxana , Constantinescu – Bercu Adela , Dimian Mihai , Mangul Serghei , Covasa Mihai
Published: March 2024

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 has been defined as the greatest global health and socioeconomic crisis of modern times. While most people recover after being infected with the virus, a significant proportion of them continue to experience health issues weeks, months and even years after acute infection with SARS-CoV-2. This persistence of clinical symptoms in infected individuals for at least three months after the onset of the disease or the emergence of new symptoms lasting more than two months, without any other explanation and alternative diagnosis have been named long COVID, long-haul COVID, post-COVID-19 conditions, chronic COVID, or post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 (PASC). Long COVID has been characterized as a constellation of symptoms and disorders that vary widely in their manifestations. Further, the mechanisms underlying long COVID are not fully understood, which hamper efficient treatment options. This review describes predictors and the most common symptoms related to long COVID’s effects on the central and peripheral nervous system and other organs and tissues. Furthermore, the transcriptional markers, molecular signaling pathways and risk factors for long COVID, such as sex, age, pre-existing condition, hospitalization during acute phase of COVID-19, vaccination, and lifestyle are presented. Finally, recommendations for patient rehabilitation and disease management, as well as alternative therapeutical approaches to long COVID sequelae are discussed. Understanding the complexity of this disease, its symptoms across multiple organ systems and overlapping pathologies and its possible mechanisms are paramount in developing diagnostic tools and treatments.
Artificial intelligence model for segmentation and severity scoring of osteophytes in hand osteoarthritis on ultrasound images
Authors: Overgaard Benjamin Schultz , Christensen Anders Bossel Holst , Terslev Lene , Savarimuthu Thiusius Rajeeth , Just Søren Andreas
Published: March 2024

Objective

To develop an artificial intelligence (AI) model able to perform both segmentation of hand joint ultrasound images for osteophytes, bone, and synovium and perform osteophyte severity scoring following the EULAR-OMERACT grading system (EOGS) for hand osteoarthritis (OA).

Methods

One hundred sixty patients with pain or reduced function of the hands were included. Ultrasound images of the metacarpophalangeal (MCP), proximal interphalangeal (PIP), distal interphalangeal (DIP), and first carpometacarpal (CMC1) joints were then manually segmented for bone, synovium and osteophytes and scored from 0 to 3 according to the EOGS for OA. Data was divided into a training, validation, and test set. The AI model was trained on the training data to perform bone, synovium, and osteophyte identification on the images. Based on the manually performed image segmentation, an AI was trained to classify the severity of osteophytes according to EOGS from 0 to 3. Percent Exact Agreement (PEA) and Percent Close Agreement (PCA) were assessed on individual joints and overall. PCA allows a difference of one EOGS grade between doctor assessment and AI.

Results

A total of 4615 ultrasound images were used for AI development and testing. The developed AI model scored on the test set for the MCP joints a PEA of 76% and PCA of 97%; for PIP, a PEA of 70% and PCA of 97%; for DIP, a PEA of 59% and PCA of 94%, and CMC a PEA of 50% and PCA of 82%. Combining all joints, we found a PEA between AI and doctor assessments of 68% and a PCA of 95%.

Conclusion

The developed AI model can perform joint ultrasound image segmentation and severity scoring of osteophytes, according to the EOGS. As proof of concept, this first version of the AI model is successful, as the agreement performance is slightly higher than previously found agreements between experts when assessing osteophytes on hand OA ultrasound images. The segmentation of the image makes the AI explainable to the doctor, who can immediately see why the AI applies a given score. Future validation in hand OA cohorts is necessary though.
Metagenomics study of soil microorganisms involved in the carbon cycle in a saline–alkaline meadow steppe in the Songnen Plain in Northeast China
Authors: Xiao Huichuan , Wei Yinzhu , Sun Xuetong , Song Xue , Liu Jielin , Bai Zhenjian , Hu Guofu , Qin Ligang
Published: March 2024

Soil microorganisms play an important role in regulating and contributing to carbon cycling processes in grassland ecosystems. Soil salinization is one of the major problems causing soil degradation, and its effects on carbon cycle immobilization-related functional genes in soil microorganisms remain unknown. Therefore, we took Songnen salinization grassland as the research object, selected grasslands with different salinization levels, and explored the diversity of soil microorganisms and functional genes related to carbon cycling in Songnen grassland with different salinization levels through metagenomic technology. The results showed that with the increase of salinity, the relative abundance of Ascomycetes increased, while the relative abundance of Proteus and Firmicutes decreased. In addition, the relative abundance of functional genes related to carbon cycling fixation has also decreased. As the degree of soil salinization increases, the relative abundance of glycoside hydrolases (GH)130 family significantly increases, while the relative abundance of soil carbohydrate enzymes belonging to GH3 and GH55 families significantly decreases. Using structural equation modeling (SEM), it was found that soil pH and conductivity (EC) have a significant impact on soil microbial diversity and functional genes related to carbon cycling fixation. The increase in soil pH directly reduces the Shannon diversity of soil microbial diversity and functional genes related to carbon cycling fixation. Therefore, it can be concluded that the intensification of grassland salinization reduces the diversity of bacteria and fungi, and affects the diversity of functional genes related to carbon cycling fixation by reducing the total diversity of bacteria. The increase in salinity has a negative feedback effect on grassland soil carbon cycling. This study provides a theoretical framework for grassland soil carbon sequestration and degradation restoration.
Postbiotics: emerging therapeutic approach in diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Chen Qin , Li Xue-Jian , Xie Wei , Su Zhao-An , Qin Guang-Ming , Yu Chen-Huan
Published: March 2024

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a prevalent microvascular complication in diabetic patients that poses a serious risk as it can cause substantial visual impairment and even vision loss. Due to the prolonged onset of DR, lengthy treatment duration, and limited therapeutic effectiveness, it is extremely important to find a new strategy for the treatment of DR. Postbiotic is an emerging dietary supplement which consists of the inactivate microbiota and its metabolites. Numerous animal experiments have demonstrated that intervention with postbiotics reduces hyperglycemia, attenuates retinal peripapillary and endothelial cell damage, improves retinal microcirculatory dysfunction, and consequently delays the progression of DR. More strikingly, unlike conventional probiotics and prebiotics, postbiotics with small molecules can directly colonize the intestinal epithelial cells, and exert heat-resistant, acid-resistant, and durable for storage. Despite few clinical significance, oral administration with postbiotics might become the effective management for the prevention and treatment of DR. In this review, we summarized the basic conception, classification, molecular mechanisms, and the advances in the therapeutic implications of postbiotics in the pathogenesis of DR. Postbiotics present great potential as a viable adjunctive therapy for DR.
Design of oscillatory neural networks by machine learning
Authors: Rudner Tamás , Porod Wolfgang , Csaba Gyorgy
Published: March 2024

We demonstrate the utility of machine learning algorithms for the design of oscillatory neural networks (ONNs). After constructing a circuit model of the oscillators in a machine-learning-enabled simulator and performing Backpropagation through time (BPTT) for determining the coupling resistances between the ring oscillators, we demonstrate the design of associative memories and multi-layered ONN classifiers. The machine-learning-designed ONNs show superior performance compared to other design methods (such as Hebbian learning), and they also enable significant simplifications in the circuit topology. We also demonstrate the design of multi-layered ONNs that show superior performance compared to single-layer ones. We argue that machine learning can be a valuable tool to unlock the true computing potential of ONNs hardware.
Predictive value of serum albumin levels on cancer survival: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Tang Quan , Li Xu , Sun Chun-Rong
Published: March 2024

Background

Serum albumin levels and cancer mortality are closely related, yet large-sample studies encompassing a broad spectrum of cancer types are lacking.

Methods

This study encompassed patients diagnosed with cancer across the continuous 10 cycles of NHANES surveys from 1999 to 2018. The study population was stratified into two groups based on median albumin levels (≤ 4.2g/dL and > 4.2 g/dL) or cancer aggressiveness (well-survived cancers and poorly-survived cancers). Survival rates were estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method. The Cox proportional hazards model was employed to evaluate the association between serum albumin levels and cancer mortality. Restricted cubic spline (RCS) analysis was conducted to assess the nonlinear relationship between serum albumin levels and the risk of cancer mortality.

Results

Kaplan-Meier curves demonstrated that patients with albumin levels ≤ 4.2 g/dL exhibited lower survival rates compared to those with levels > 4.2 g/dL, irrespective of cancer aggressiveness. Following adjustment for confounders, decreased albumin levels were associated with an elevated risk of cancer mortality across all groups [all cancers, HR (95%CI) = 2.03(1.73, 2.37); well survived cancers, HR (95%CI) = 1.78(1.38, 2.32); and poorly survived cancers, HR (95%CI) = 1.99(1.64, 2.42)]. RCS analyses revealed a stable nonlinear negative association between albumin levels and cancer mortality in all groups, regardless of confounder adjustment.

Conclusion

Low serum albumin levels predict higher cancer mortality. Furthermore, a nonlinear negative association was observed between serum albumin levels and the risk of cancer mortality.
Effects of unilateral, bilateral, and combined unilateral+bilateral complex resistance training on bench press and squat strength in adolescent boxers
Authors: Liu Yang , Liu Xiuxia , Geng Jiaxian
Published: March 2024

Objective: To assess the effects of 8 weeks of unilateral (UNI), bilateral (BI), and combined unilateral + bilateral (UNI + BI) resistance training on bench press and squat strength in adolescent boxers.

Methods: Using the Gym Aware linear accelerometer, free-weight squat and bench press strength exercises were evaluated after an 8-week training intervention. Thirty adolescent boxers were randomly assigned to three groups: UNI, height: 1.73 ± 0.08 m, weight: 55.42 ± 5.85 kg; UNI + BI, height: 1.7 ± 0.06 m, weight: 54.73 ± 5.33 kg; and BI, height: 1.74 ± 0.06 m, weight: 59.67 ± 8.39 kg. Each group followed their designated UNI/BI/UNI + BI compound resistance training protocols, and the effects of 8 weeks of single-sided and bilateral intervention training on the performance of free-weight squat and bench press exercises at 30%, 50%, and 80% of 1-repetition maximum (1RM) were evaluated.

Results: Significant improvements were observed in the 30% 1RM, 50% 1RM, and 80% 1RM outcomes for both squat and bench press exercises before and after the interventions (p < 0.05, p < 0.01). In the intergroup comparison, GymAware measurements revealed that the UNI and UNI + BI groups exhibited superior peak power values for squat and bench press exercises at 30% 1RM compared to the BI group.

Discussion: UNI and UNI + BI training led to significantly higher output power values in bench press and squat exercises at 30% 1RM compared to the BI training group.
Dawn of the dialogue: AI's leap from lab to living room
Authors: Procko Tyler Thomas , Elvira Timothy , Ochoa Omar
Published: March 2024

Prior to the advent of mainstream Large Language Models, e.g., ChatGPT, there were two contexts of AI use: theoretical and technical. The former involves the mathematics behind AI constructs, as well as new AI research; the latter encompasses the substance of AI use, i.e., programming, training, execution, etc. With the recent proliferation of Large Language Models for content generation, such as texts, images, and videos, there arises a new context of AI use: practical. This aspect of AI use is unique, in that practical users do not need theoretical or technical AI knowledge to prosper: they need only know how to prompt. In effect, the practical context of AI use is a black-box approach. These three contexts of AI converge in a unique intersection of AI knowledge. This emerging AI perspective is important to consider, as most AI users, now and in the future, will possess no deep knowledge of AI.
Implications of EMG channel count: enhancing pattern recognition online prosthetic testing
Authors: Simon Ann M. , Newkirk Keira , Miller Laura A. , Turner Kristi L. , Brenner Kevin , Stephens Michael , Hargrove Levi J.
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Myoelectric pattern recognition systems have shown promising control of upper limb powered prostheses and are now commercially available. These pattern recognition systems typically record from up to 8 muscle sites, whereas other control systems use two-site control. While previous offline studies have shown 8 or fewer sites to be optimal, real-time control was not evaluated.

Methods

Six individuals with no limb absence and four individuals with a transradial amputation controlled a virtual upper limb prosthesis using pattern recognition control with 8 and 16 channels of EMG. Additionally, two of the individuals with a transradial amputation performed the Assessment for Capacity of Myoelectric Control (ACMC) with a multi-articulating hand and wrist prosthesis with the same channel count conditions.

Results

Users had significant improvements in control when using 16 compared to 8 EMG channels including decreased classification error (p = 0.006), decreased completion time (p = 0.019), and increased path efficiency (p = 0.013) when controlling a virtual prosthesis. ACMC scores increased by more than three times the minimal detectable change from the 8 to the 16-channel condition.

Discussion

The results of this study indicate that increasing EMG channel count beyond the clinical standard of 8 channels can benefit myoelectric pattern recognition users.
Collaborative robots (cobots) for disaster risk resilience: a framework for swarm of snake robots in delivering first aid in emergency situations
Authors: Moosavi Syed Kumayl Raza , Zafar Muhammad Hamza , Sanfilippo Filippo
Published: March 2024

Cobots are robots that are built for human-robot collaboration (HRC) in a shared environment. In the aftermath of disasters, cobots can cooperate with humans to mitigate risks and increase the possibility of rescuing people in distress. This study examines the resilient and dynamic synergy between a swarm of snake robots, first responders and people to be rescued. The possibility of delivering first aid to potential victims dispersed around a disaster environment is implemented. In the HRC simulation framework presented in this study, the first responder initially deploys a UAV, swarm of snake robots and emergency items. The UAV provides the first responder with the site planimetry, which includes the layout of the area, as well as the precise locations of the individuals in need of rescue and the aiding goods to be delivered. Each individual snake robot in the swarm is then assigned a victim. Subsequently an optimal path is determined by each snake robot using the A* algorithm, to approach and reach its respective target while avoiding obstacles. By using their prehensile capabilities, each snake robot adeptly grasps the aiding object to be dispatched. The snake robots successively arrive at the delivering location near the victim, following their optimal paths, and proceed to release the items. To demonstrate the potential of the framework, several case studies are outlined concerning the execution of operations that combine locomotion, obstacle avoidance, grasping and deploying. The Coppelia-Sim Robotic Simulator is utilised for this framework. The analysis of the motion of the snake robots on the path show highly accurate movement with and without the emergency item. This study is a step towards a holistic semi-autonomous search and rescue operation.
Exposure of Mycobacterium tuberculosis to human alveolar lining fluid shows temporal and strain-specific adaptation to the lung environment
Authors: Allué-Guardia Anna , Garcia-Vilanova Andreu , Schami Alyssa M. , Olmo-Fontánez Angélica M. , Hicks Amberlee , Peters Jay , Maselli Diego J. , Wewers Mark D. , Wang Yufeng , Torrelles Jordi B.
Published: March 2024

Upon infection, Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M.tb) reaches the alveolar space and comes in close contact with the lung mucosa or human alveolar lining fluid (ALF) for an uncertain period of time prior to its encounter with alveolar cells. We showed that homeostatic ALF hydrolytic enzymes modify the M.tb cell envelope, driving M.tb-host cell interactions. Still, the contribution of ALF during M.tb infection is poorly understood. Here, we exposed 4 M.tb strains with different levels of virulence, transmissibility, and drug resistance (DR) to physiological concentrations of human ALF for 15-min and 12-h, and performed RNA sequencing. Gene expression analysis showed a temporal and strain-specific adaptation to human ALF. Differential expression (DE) of ALF-exposed vs. unexposed M.tb revealed a total of 397 DE genes associated with lipid metabolism, cell envelope and processes, intermediary metabolism and respiration, and regulatory proteins, among others. Most DE genes were detected at 12-h post-ALF exposure, with DR-M.tb strain W-7642 having the highest number of DE genes. Interestingly, genes from the KstR2 regulon, which controls the degradation of cholesterol C and D rings, were significantly upregulated in all strains post-ALF exposure. These results indicate that M.tb-ALF contact drives initial bacterial metabolic and physiologic changes, which may have implications in the early events of M.tb infection.
Incidence of De Novo Post-Transplant Malignancies in Thai Adult Kidney Transplant Recipients: A Single-Center, Population-Controlled, Retrospective Cohort Study at the Highest Volume Kidney Transplant Center in Thailand
Authors: Srisuwarn Praopilad , Sutharattanapong Napun , Disthabanchong Sinee , Kantachuvesiri Surasak , Kitiyakara Chagriya , Phakdeekitcharoen Bunyong , Ingsathit Atiporn , Sumethkul Vasant
Published: March 2024

Kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) are at increased risk of developing de novo post-transplant malignancies (PTMs), with regional differences in types with excess risk compared to the general population. A single-center, population-controlled, retrospective cohort study was conducted at a tertiary care center in Thailand among all adults who underwent their first kidney transplant from 1986 to 2018. Standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) of malignancy by age, sex, and place of residence were obtained using data from the National Cancer Registry of Thailand as population control. There were 2,024 KTRs [mean age, 42.4 years (SD 11.4); female patients, 38.6%] during 16,495 person-years at risk. Of these, 125 patients (6.2%) developed 133 de novo PTMs. The SIR for all PTMs was 3.85 (95% CI 3.22, 4.56), and for pooled solid and hematologic PTMs, it was 3.32 (95% CI 2.73, 3.99). Urothelial malignancies had the largest excess risk, especially in women [female SIR 114.7 (95% CI 66.8, 183.6); male SIR 17.5 (95% CI 8.72, 31.2)]. The next two most common cancers were non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and skin cancer [SIR 20.3 (95% CI 13.6, 29.1) and 24.7 (95% CI 15.3-37.8), respectively]. Future studies are needed to identify the risk factors and assess the need for systematic screening among PTMs with excess risk in KTRs.
Sustainability-Oriented Leader, Please! Effects of Industry on Followers’ Preferences
Authors: Warner-Søderholm Gillian , Čepėnas Simonas , Minelgaite Inga , Akstinaitė Vita
Published: March 2024

With sustainability becoming the new norm, the discussion about followers’ attitudes towards sustainability-oriented leadership is growing globally. Therefore, this study investigates the extent to which employees’ industry and sector background influence their perception of the ideal leader in relation to preferred sustainability orientation. This study also examines preferred sustainability leadership values and the role of culturally endorsed leadership in this process. Using the Preferred Sustainability Leadership Orientation (PSLO) survey, we gathered and analyzed data from 11 countries and 11 industry backgrounds (n = 5530). Our findings show that there is a statistical significance in followers’ valuing a leader with a high sustainability orientation most. Moreover, our results indicate that respondents working in public administration organizations value a leader with a strong sustainability orientation in addition to environmental and equality goals. While respondents associated with agriculture and real estate do not seem to place so much value on an ideal leader focusing on gender equality, in industries such as finance, manufacturing, and real estate, followers seem to value a leader with a stronger focus on profit and less emphasis on promoting gender equality. This research offers implications for the development of the PSLO (preferred sustainable leadership orientation) as a useful sustainability leadership barometer tool for measuring an organization’s sustainability culture and suggests avenues for future research.
The Thermo-Mechanical Properties of Carbon-Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Composites Exposed to a Low Earth Orbit Environment
Authors: Nishihara Kiho , Okuyama Kei-ichi , Rodriguez Rafael , Fajardo Isai
Published: March 2024

In this study, we focus on 3D-printed PEEK/CFRTP (Carbon-Fiber-Reinforced Thermoplastic) and PEEK (Polyether Ether Ketone) materials as new space materials. In space, there are intense ultraviolet (UV) rays that are weakened by the atmosphere on Earth, so it is essential to understand the degradation of materials due to UV rays in advance. Therefore, we developed a materials science experiment called the Material Mission, which will be carried out on board Ten-Koh 2. This mission measures the coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) of the CFRTP samples and the PEEK samples in LEO without recovery. So, we developed a thermal expansion observation system to be installed on the Ten-Koh 2 satellite. In addition, UV irradiation tests simulating the UV environment in LEO were conducted as ground tests. From the results of the ground tests, it was possible to determine in advance the degree of degradation of each material in the UV environment, even up to 100 ESD. By utilizing these results in mission operations, more meaningful measurement results can be obtained, and this mission development can contribute greatly to developing new space materials in the future.
Evaluating Water Management Efficiency in Regulating Cadmium and Arsenic Accumulation in Rice in Typical Japonica Paddy Soils at Varied pH Levels
Authors: Wu Xianxin , Lin Qiujun , Li Guang , Guo Chunjing , Li Lina , Wang Jianzhong
Published: March 2024

There is growing concern regarding cadmium (Cd) exposure through rice consumption. Compared with alternate wetting and drying (AWD), continuous flooding (CF) is usually considered as an effective approach for reducing Cd enrichment in rice but increases the risk of pollution from arsenic (As). In this study, the field trial was conducted to investigate remediation effects of two water management (CF and AWD) techniques on Cd pollution in rice in typical japonica rice cultivation areas with varied soil pH levels. The results indicate that soil pH was a crucial factor in regulating CF-mediated Cd/As accumulation and migration in rice plants, and grains at all stages of rice growth. In acidic fields, compared with AWD, the use of CF reduced the accumulation of Cd in plants during the tillering stage; CF during the milk stage promotes the risk of contamination of Cd in rice grains and any form of As in plants and inhibits the content of any forms of As in grains. During the mature stage, CF reduced the levels of Cd in the plants and grains while promoting the accumulation of As(V) and total As(T-As) in plants and As(III) in grains. In alkaline fields, compared with AWD, CF during the tillering stage promoted the accumulation of various forms of As in plants. During the milk stage, CF increased and decreased the Cd content in plants and grains, respectively, and reduced the accumulation of T-As in plants and As(III) in grains; during the mature stage, CF promoted the accumulation of Cd in plants and grains, induced the accumulation of T-As plants, and inhibited the accumulation of any form of As in grains. From the perspective of food safety, the impact of CF conditions on the accumulation of Cd and As in rice from acidic fields exhibited a pattern of reduction in Cd and increase in As during the maturity period, as compared to that on the AWD. Conversely, CF increased the Cd risk while simultaneously reducing the As accumulation in rice grains to a safe level in alkaline fields. CF is not recommended as a remediation strategy for Cd pollution in rice in low Cd pollution areas, but it can be considered as a potential strategy for As pollution remediation in rice in alkaline fields with low Cd pollution.
Agroecological Transformation in the Salt Composition of Soil under the Phosphogypsum Influence on Irrigated Lands in Ukraine
Authors: Onopriienko Dmytro , Makarova Tetiana , Hapich Hennadii , Chernysh Yelizaveta , Roubík Hynek
Published: March 2024

The purpose of our research is to evaluate the agroecological condition of soils under long-term irrigation (over 50 years) and to improve existing measures to slow down degradation processes by introducing phosphogypsum. The possibility of simultaneously addressing the ecological issue of using large amounts of phosphogypsum waste and the agronomic characteristics of slowing or eliminating salinisation processes in irrigated soils has been studied and justified. The research methodology was based on the comparison of different meliorative doses of phosphogypsum under the following conditions: by the amount of exchangeable sodium that should displace calcium in the calculated soil layer; by the coagulation limit; and by the absorption norm and the corresponding amount of sodium coming with irrigation water. To determine water-soluble salts (anions, cations) and pH level, a water extract was utilized. Multi-year studies to determine the impact of phosphogypsum on irrigation-salinised soils with and without irrigation showed positive changes in the anion–cation composition of water extraction, resulting in a reduction in the degree of the salinity of these soils. It was established that in chernozem soils under irrigation, the sodium adsorption ratio decreases by 74.5% compared to the control indicators, and without irrigation, by 23%. The best results in the displacement of exchangeable sodium were observed when phosphogypsum was applied at a dose calculated by the coagulation limit without irrigation and with irrigation—by the absorption norm.
Linking Entrepreneurship to Productivity: Using a Composite Indicator for Farm-Level Innovation in UK Agriculture with Secondary Data
Authors: Gadanakis Yiorgos , Campos-González Jorge , Jones Philip
Published: March 2024

In agriculture, the intricate relationship between innovation, productivity, and entrepreneurship is underexplored. Despite the widely recognized role of innovation in driving productivity, concrete indicators and comprehensive farm-level studies are lacking. This research aims to unravel this complexity by exploring the impact of innovation, specifically in agricultural entrepreneurship, on transformative changes in farm productivity. The work presented in this manuscript explores how farm-level data derived from the Farm Business Survey (FBS) for the period between 2003 and 2014 is used to identify innovators and to assesses changes in productivity, technical efficiency, and economic efficiency. Therefore, it aims to contribute to comprehensively exploring the role of innovation, particularly within the context of entrepreneurship in agriculture, and its influence on driving transformative changes in farm productivity. Results reveal significant productivity variation and a moderate overall improvement. Furthermore, investment in human resources, particularly managerial input, significantly enhances farm productivity across various models, indicating experienced managers utilize technology effectively. Notably, management and human capital innovation drive positive productivity changes in the UK cereal sector for the period 2003–2014, surpassing technological advancements. Efficient farmers leverage experience to benefit from operational scale changes, emphasizing the importance of accumulated knowledge. Hence, policy interventions should recognize these nuances; while promoting vocational training aids technology adoption, it may not spur management innovation. Thus, strategies must balance various aspects to effectively foster innovation in agriculture, considering both technological and managerial advancements for sustained productivity growth. The study advocates for a departure from the ‘bigger is better’ mentality, proposing educational programs and support services to encourage informed decision-making. This forward-looking approach aims to inform future policies and enhance understanding of the intricate dynamics between agricultural innovation, productivity, and entrepreneurship.