bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing the long-term economic impact of wheezing episodes after severe RSV disease in children from Argentina: a cost of illness analysis
Authors: Dvorkin Julia , Pecenka Clint , Sosa Emiliano M , Sancilio Andrea , Dueñas Karina , Rodriguez Andrea , Rojas-Roque Carlos , Carruitero Patricia B , Baral Ranju , Vodicka Elisabeth , Polack Fernando P , Libster Romina , Caballero Mauricio T
Published: July 2024

Introduction

There is lack of available data on the economic burden of wheezing episodes after severe respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection. This study aimed to assess the cost incurred for wheezing episodes after a severe RSV infection in children from Argentina, considering both the public health system and societal perspectives.

Methods

A prospective cohort was conducted from 2014 to 2022 to assess the cost of illness of wheezing episodes after severe RSV disease in children from Buenos Aires, Argentina. Direct medical and non-medical costs were estimated, along with indirect costs per episode and patient. Data pertaining to healthcare resource utilisation, indirect expenses and parental out-of-pocket costs were obtained. The overall cost per hospitalisation and health visits was calculated. Costs were quantified in US dollars using the average exchange rate on the specific date of data collection.

Results

A total of 256 infants experienced severe RSV disease during their first year of life and were followed over a 5-year period in Buenos Aires. Overall, 150 children between 12 and 60 months presented 429 wheezing episodes. The median number of wheezing episodes per patient was 5 (IQR 3–7). The mean cost per wheezing episode was US$191.01 (95% CI 166.37 to 215.64). The total cost per episode of wheezing was significantly higher (p<0.001) in infants under 12 months of age (207.43, 95% CI 154.3 to 260.6) compared with older toddler. The average cumulative cost associated to wheezing per patient was US$415.99 (95% CI 313.35 to 518.63). Considering both acute RSV disease and long-term wheezing outcomes, the cumulative mean cost per patient was US$959.56 (95% CI 832.01 to 1087.10).

Conclusions

This study reveals the economic impact of prolonged wheezing resulting from severe acute RSV infection on Argentina’s public health system and society. The estimates obtained serve as valuable inputs for informing cost-effectiveness analyses of upcoming RSV preventive interventions.
Perspectives on reasons why football and handball players sustain acute and severe knee injuries: a mixed-methods concept mapping study
Authors: Alkjær Tine , Bandak Elisabeth , Henriksen Marius , Christensen Robin , Thorborg Kristian , Zebis Mette K , Bencke Jesper , Holm Pætur M , Wæhrens Eva E
Published: July 2024

Background

The high incidence of knee injuries in football/handball challenges effective prevention. Identifying tangible and modifiable factors associated with a knee injury may innovate preventive actions. Engaging key stakeholders can reveal crucial insights that could improve knee injury prevention in football/handball.

Objective

To investigate football/handball stakeholders’ perspectives on reasons for acute and severe knee injuries to generate a conceptual model on important factors associated with knee injuries in football/handball.

Methods

Mixed-method participatory Group Concept Mapping was applied to collect statements from football/handball stakeholders (players/coaches/healthcare staff/researchers) on the question, ‘What may explain why some players sustain a knee injury?’. Participants rated the importance and feasibility of screening for each statement. Multidimensional scaling and hierarchical cluster analysis produced a cluster map, forming the basis for developing a final conceptual model.

Results

Stakeholders (n=37) generated and sorted 100 statements. Cluster analysis followed by cluster map validation yielded seven themes: (1) the player’s physical and motor skill profile, (2) preparation and training, (3) footwear and playing surface, (4) the sport’s impact on the risk of injury, (5) mental and physical fatigue, (6) history of injury and 7) genetics and context. A final conceptual model illustrating factors associated with knee injuries in football/handball was developed. Forty-six statements were identified as both important and feasible to screen for.

Conclusions

Stakeholders’ perspectives on knee injuries in football/handball revealed a complex interplay of factors. We developed a conceptual model fostering stakeholder dialogue for enhanced prevention. Key among its themes is ‘preparation and training’.
Being a patient in a crowded emergency department: a qualitative service evaluation
Authors: Craston Alex I P , Scott-Murfitt Harriet , Omar Mariam T , Abeyratne Ruw , Kirk Kate , Mackintosh Nicola , Roland Damian , van Oppen James David
Published: July 2024

Background

Emergency department (ED) crowding causes increased mortality. Professionals working in crowded departments feel unable to provide high-quality care and are predisposed to burnout. Awareness of the impact on patients, however, is limited to metrics and surveys rather than understanding perspectives. This project investigated patients’ experiences and identified mitigating interventions.

Methods

A qualitative service evaluation was undertaken in a large UK ED. Adults were recruited during periods of high occupancy or delayed transfers. Semi-structured interviews explored experience during these attendances. Participants shared potential mitigating interventions. Analysis was based on the interpretative phenomenological approach. Verbatim transcripts were read, checked for accuracy, re-read and discussed during interviewer debriefing. Reflections about positionality informed the interpretative process.

Results

Seven patients and three accompanying partners participated. They were aged 24–87 with characteristics representing the catchment population. Participants’ experiences were characterised by ‘loss of autonomy’, ‘unmet expectations’ and ‘vulnerability’. Potential mitigating interventions centred around information provision and better identification of existing ED facilities for personal needs.

Conclusion

Participants attending a crowded ED experienced uncertainty, helplessness and discomfort. Recommendations included process and environmental orientation.
Association of breast milk-derived arachidonic acid-induced infant gut dysbiosis with the onset of atopic dermatitis
Authors: Jiang Suhua , Cai Mengyun , Li Dingru , Chen Xiangping , Chen Xiaoqian , Huang Qitao , Zhong Caimei , Zheng Xiufeng , Zhou Dan , Chen Zhiyan , Zhang Lin , Ching Jessica YL , Chen Ailing , Lu Shaoxia , Zhang Lifang , Hu Ling , Liao Yan , Li Ying , He Zhihua , Wu Jingjing , Huo Huiyi , Liang Yongqi , Li Wanwen , Zou Yanli , Luo Wei , Ng Siew C , Chan Francis KL , Chen Xia , Deng Yuhua
Published: July 2024

Objective

The specific breast milk-derived metabolites that mediate host–microbiota interactions and contribute to the onset of atopic dermatitis (AD) remain unknown and require further investigation.

Design

We enrolled 250 mother–infant pairs and collected 978 longitudinal faecal samples from infants from birth to 6 months of age, along with 243 maternal faecal samples for metagenomics. Concurrently, 239 corresponding breast milk samples were analysed for metabolomics. Animal and cellular experiments were conducted to validate the bioinformatics findings.

Results

The clinical findings suggested that a decrease in daily breastfeeding duration was associated with a reduced incidence of AD. This observation inspired us to investigate the effects of breast milk-derived fatty acids. We found that high concentrations of arachidonic acid (AA), but not eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) or docosahexaenoic acid, induced gut dysbiosis in infants. Further investigation revealed that four specific bacteria degraded mannan into mannose, consequently enhancing the mannan-dependent biosynthesis of O-antigen and lipopolysaccharide. Correlation analysis confirmed that in infants with AD, the abundance ofEscherichia coliunder high AA concentrations was positively correlated with some microbial pathways (eg, ‘GDP-mannose-derived O-antigen and lipopolysaccharide biosynthesis’). These findings are consistent with those of the animal studies. Additionally, AA, but not EPA, disrupted the ratio of CD4/CD8 cells, increased skin lesion area and enhanced the proportion of peripheral Th2 cells. It also promoted IgE secretion and the biosynthesis of prostaglandins and leukotrienes in BALB/c mice fed AA following ovalbumin immunostimulation. Moreover, AA significantly increased IL-4 secretion in HaCaT cells costimulated with TNF-α and INF-γ.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that AA is intimately linked to the onset of AD via gut dysbiosis.
Prognostic value of plasma big endothelin-1 in patients with light chain cardiac amyloidosis
Authors: Chen Zhongli , Shi Anteng , Wang Zhiyan , Chen Yanjia , Lin Yahui , Su Mingming , Dong Hongbin , Laptseva Natallia , Hu Yuxiao , Flammer Andreas J , Duru Firat , Jin Wei , Chen Liang
Published: July 2024

Background

Light chain cardiac amyloidosis (AL-CA) is associated with a high incidence of mortality. Big endothelin-1 (ET-1), the precursor of endothelial-vasoconstrictive ET-1, is closely related to the concentration of bioactive ET-1. Association between big ET-1 and prognosis of AL-CA has not yet been documented. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the prognostic value of big ET-1 for poor outcomes in moderate to severe AL-CA.

Methods

Big ET-1 levels were determined on admission in patients with newly diagnosed AL-CA with modified Mayo 2004 stage II or III. Primary outcome was all-cause mortality. The secondary outcomes included death from cardiac cause and the composite of the primary outcome or hospitalisations due to worsening heart failure.

Results

Overall, 141 patients were retrospectively included (57 stage II, 34 stage IIIa, 50 stage IIIb). During a median follow-up time of 25.7 months, 84 (59.6%) patients died. Patients with big ET-1 levels of ≤0.88 pmol/L had longer survival than those with >0.88 pmol/L (median survival time: 34.1 months vs 15.3 months, log-rank p<0.001), which was also observed in the validation cohort (log-rank p=0.026). Higher big ET-1 levels were predictive for all-cause mortality after multivariable adjustment (HR 1.91, 95% CI 1.05 to 3.49, p=0.035). Big ET-1 levels added an incremental prognostic value over modified Mayo 2004 stage (C-index: from 0.671 to 0.696, p=0.025; integrated discrimination improvement 0.168, p=0.047).

Conclusions

Big ET-1 is a strong and independent predictor of mortality in patients with moderate to severe AL-CA, which may indicate a possible role for risk stratification in patients with this disease.
Associations between circulating proteins and cardiometabolic diseases: a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational and Mendelian randomisation studies
Authors: Wu Ting , Ke Yalei , Li Yingtao , Wu Zhiyu , Lv Jun , Yu Canqing , Sun Dianjianyi , Yao Pang , Kartsonaki Christiana , Chen Zhengming , Li Liming , Pang Yuanjie
Published: July 2024

Background

Integration of large proteomics and genetic data in population-based studies can provide insights into discovery of novel biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets for cardiometabolic diseases (CMD). We aimed to synthesise existing evidence on the observational and genetic associations between circulating proteins and CMD.

Methods

PubMed, Embase and Web of Science were searched until July 2023 for potentially relevant prospective observational and Mendelian randomisation (MR) studies investigating associations between circulating proteins and CMD, including coronary heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, heart failure, atrial fibrillation and atherosclerosis. Two investigators independently extracted study characteristics using a standard form and pooled data using random effects models.

Results

50 observational, 25 MR and 10 studies performing both analyses were included, involving 26 414 160 non-overlapping participants. Meta-analysis of observational studies revealed 560 proteins associated with CMD, of which 133 proteins were associated with ≥2 CMDs (ie, pleiotropic). There were 245 potentially causal protein biomarkers identified in MR pooled results, involving 23 pleiotropic proteins. IL6RA and MMP12 were each causally associated with seven diseases. 22 protein-disease pairs showed directionally concordant associations in observational and MR pooled estimates. Addition of protein biomarkers to traditional clinical models modestly improved the accuracy of predicting incident CMD, with the highest improvement for heart failure (ΔC-index ~0.2). Of the 245 potentially causal proteins (291 protein-disease pairs), 3 pairs were validated by evidence of drug development from existing drug databases, 288 pairs lacked evidence of drug development and 66 proteins were drug targets approved for other indications.

Conclusions

Combined analyses of observational and genetic studies revealed the potential causal role of several proteins in the aetiology of CMD. Novel protein biomarkers are promising targets for drug development and risk stratification.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42022350327.
Cardiac magnetic resonance for ventricular arrhythmias: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Papanastasiou Christos A , Bazmpani Maria-Anna , Kampaktsis Polydoros N , Zegkos Thomas , Gossios Thomas , Parcharidou Despoina , Kokkinidis Damianos G , Tziatzios Ioannis , Economou Fotios I , Nikolaidou Chrysovalantou , Kamperidis Vasileios , Tsapas Apostolos , Ziakas Antonios , Efthimiadis Georgios , Karamitsos Theodoros D
Published: July 2024

Background

Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) allows comprehensive myocardial tissue characterisation, revealing areas of myocardial inflammation or fibrosis that may predispose to ventricular arrhythmias (VAs). With this study, we aimed to estimate the prevalence of structural heart disease (SHD) and decipher the prognostic implications of CMR in selected patients presenting with significant VAs.

Methods

Electronic databases were searched for studies enrolling adult patients that underwent CMR for diagnostic or prognostic purposes in the setting of significant VAs. A random effects model meta-analysis of proportions was performed to estimate the prevalence of SHD. HRs were pooled together in order to evaluate the prognostic value of CMR.

Results

The prevalence of SHD was reported in 18 studies. In all-comers with significant VAs, the pooled rate of SHD post-CMR evaluation was 39% (24% in the subgroup of premature ventricular contractions and/or non-sustained ventricular tachycardia vs 63% in the subgroup of more complex VAs). A change in diagnosis after use of CMR ranged from 21% to 66% with a pooled average of 35% (29%–41%). A non-ischaemic cardiomyopathy was the most frequently identified SHD (56%), followed by ischaemic heart disease (21%) and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (5%). After pooling together data from six studies, we found that the presence of late gadolinium enhancement was associated with increased risk of major adverse outcomes in patients with significant VAs (pooled HR: 1.79; 95% CI 1.33 to 2.42).

Conclusion

CMR is a valuable tool in the diagnostic and prognostic evaluation of patients with VAs. CMR should be considered early after initial evaluation in the diagnostic algorithm for VAs of unclear aetiology as this strategy may also define prognosis and improve risk stratification.
Objective and subjective accounts of urban exposures for epidemiological research on mental health. Measurement and analysis
Authors: Subiza-Pérez Mikel , García-Baquero Gonzalo , Bereziartua Ainhoa , Ibarluzea Jesús
Published: July 2024

The interest in the impact of urban environmental exposures (UrbEEs) on mental health has greatly increased in the last two decades. Researchers have tended to measure said exposures either via objective measurement procedures (eg, air pollution campaigns and geographic information systems computations) or by self-reported techniques such as the use of scales and questionnaires. It has been suggested that studying both the objective features of the environments and people’s perceptions are key to understand environmental determinants of health and might be needed to tailor effective interventions. However, there is little guidance on how to approach this matter, the comparability between objective and subjective accounts of UrbEEs and, more importantly, suitable statistical procedures to deal with the practicalities of this kind of data. In this essay, we aim to build the case for the joint use of both sets of variables in epidemiological studies and propose socioecological models as a valid theoretical framework to accommodate these. In the methodological sphere, we will also review current literature to select examples of (un)appropriate subjective accounts of urban exposures and propose a series of statistical procedures to estimate the total, direct and indirect effects of UrbEEs on mental health and the potential associations between objective and subjective UrbEEs accounts.
Double gonosomal mosaicism as an unusual hereditary mechanism in familial
GRIN2A
-related disorder
Authors: Cetica Valentina , Cavallin Mara , Ricci Maria Luisa , Mandorlini Claudia , Bartolini Emanuele , Parrini Elena , Guerrini Renzo
Published: July 2024

We aim to describe double gonosomal mosaicism in the
GRIN2A
gene in a mother who passed on two different pathogenic variants at the same nucleotide to her two affected children. We studied a boy with epilepsy and intellectual disability, along with his sister and mother who exhibited language impairment and learning difficulties without epilepsy. We identified in the proband a splice-site variant in
GRIN2A
(c.1008–1G>A) inherited from his mother. Subsequent testing of his sister revealed a different change at the same nucleotide c.1008–1G>T, which was also present in the mother’s DNA at 3.9% allele frequency. The co-occurrence of two mutational events at the same nucleotide is extremely rare. Since a chance occurrence is unlikely, we hypothesise that a base mismatch may introduce instability triggering a second event. In this family, the mother carries three alleles, of which one is at very low frequency. This complex genetic landscape poses diagnostic challenges since low-level mosaicism may escape detection via conventional methods. Applying specific technology becomes crucial, as double mosaicism might prove to be more prevalent than anticipated severely impacting diagnostic accuracy and genetic counselling.
Development of physiologically relevant synthetic thrombus for use in visual analysis of in vitro mechanical thrombectomy device testing
Authors: Berns Holly , Robertson Sophia , Lewis Kailey , Wells Jesse , Clark Wyatt , Becker Timothy A
Published: July 2024

Background

Ischemic stroke is a leading cause of death and significant long-term disability worldwide. Mechanical thrombectomy is emerging as a standard treatment for eligible patients. As clinical implementation of stent retrieval and aspiration thrombectomy increases, there is a need for physiologically relevant in vitro device efficacy testing. Critical to this testing is the development of standardized ‘soft’ and ‘hard’ synthetic blood clots that mimic the properties of human thrombi and are compatible with imaging technologies. Synthetic clots allow researchers to extract information regarding clot integration, model hemodynamics, and quantify the physics of thrombectomy.

Methods

This work develops polyacrylamide and alginate-based synthetic clots that are compatible with particle image velocimetry (PIV) and radiographic imaging techniques while maintaining mechanical properties of ‘soft’ and ‘hard’ human clots. Dynamic mechanical analysis testing using an HR2-Rheometer demonstrates comparable mechanical properties to human clots previously tested by this research group and provided in existing literature.

Results

The synthetic clots are formulated with either 0.5% w/v polyethylene microspheres for PIV visualization or 20% w/v barium sulfate for angiographic visualization, enabling real-time imaging of clot behavior during thrombectomy simulations. The soft formulation shows compressive and shear properties of ~12 kPa and 2–3 kPa, respectively. The hard clots are 3–4 times stiffer, with compressive and shear properties of 41–42 kPa and 8-9 kPa, respectively.

Conclusion

Standardized synthetic clots offer a platform for reproducible device testing. This provides a greater understanding of mechanical thrombectomy device efficacy, which may lead to quantifiable advances in device development and eventual improved clinical outcomes.
Accelerated carbonation of non-plastic soils mixed with hydrated lime: index properties influencing binder formation rate and mechanical improvement
Authors: Gallant Aaron P. , Hossen S.K. Belal , Ashraf Warda
Published: July 2024

Chemical stabilization—the mixing of additives like cement, lime, or fly-ash with soil to improve its mechanical properties—conventionally relies on hydration reactions to generate a binder. Accelerated soil carbonation is a nascent alternative method, whereby carbon dioxide is intentionally introduced in soil mixed with alkali additives to generate a carbonate binder and sequester carbon dioxide. Non-plastic sand and silt specimens mixed with hydrated lime were carbonated for varying amounts of time at different water contents and densities to evaluate the index properties influencing the rate of carbonation and degree of mechanical improvement. It was demonstrated that volumetric air and water contents primarily govern the rate of binder formation and that mechanical properties are influenced by the carbonate binder content and density. Under optimum conditions, soil specimens could be fully carbonated within 3–24 h and unconfined compressive strengths as great as 3–4 MPa were achieved. The degree of strength improvement is comparable to cement-stabilized materials and has a similar dependence on soil type, density, and binder content. If techniques are developed that enable carbonation at scale, the sequestration of carbon dioxide would offset emissions associated with production of chemical additives used for chemical stabilization.
Occurrence and characterization of plasmid-encoded qnr genes in quinolone-resistant bacteria across diverse aquatic environments in southern Ontario
Authors: Yusuf Farhan , Ahmed Saher M. , Dy Danica , Baney Katherine , Waseem Hassan , Gilbride Kimberley A.
Published: July 2024

Antimicrobial resistance is an ever-increasing threat. The widespread usage of ciprofloxacin has led to the manifestation of resistance due to chromosomal mutations or the acquisition of plasmid-mediated quinolone resistance (PMQR) traits. Some particular PMQR traits, qnr genes, have been identified globally in clinical and environmental isolates. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of ciprofloxacin-resistant bacteria in aquatic environments in southern Ontario and investigate the extent of dissemination of ciprofloxacin resistance traits among the bacterial communities. We surveyed the prevalence of plasmid encoding qnr genes using a multiplex PCR assay of associated PMQR genes, qnrA, qnrB, and qnrS, on 202 isolates. Despite the absence of significant impacts on minimum inhibitory concentration levels, the presence of qnr genes correlates with heightened resistance to quinolones and nalidixic acid in some isolates. Taxonomic analysis highlights distinct differences in the composition and diversity of ciprofloxacin-sensitive (CipS) and ciprofloxacin-resistant (CipR) populations, with Proteobacteria dominating both groups. Importantly, CipR populations exhibit lower genetic diversity but higher prevalence of multiple antibiotic resistances, suggesting co-selection mechanisms. Co-occurrence analysis highlights significant associations between ciprofloxacin resistance and other antibiotic resistances, implicating complex genetic linkages. The results of our study signified the critical role of environmental monitoring in public health.
Simulation and Comparative Study of Propagation Delay in Multi-Channel Quantum SWS-CMOS-Based Inverters Using II–VI Gate Insulator
Authors: Almalki A. , Saman B. , Gudlavalleti R. H. , Chandy J. , Heller E. , Jain F. C.
Published: July 2024

This paper investigates the effect of lattice-matched II–VI ZnS-ZnMgS stack as the gate insulator on the propagation delay of a 4-state quantum spatial wavefunction-switched (SWS)-CMOS-based inverters and SRAMs. The novelty is the smaller density of interface states which reduces the fluctuations in the various threshold voltages of the SWS-FETs and logic and memory devices using them. Two SWS-CMOS-based inverter models using SiO2 and lattice-matched II–VI ZnS-ZnMgS stack as the gate insulator, are presented. Cadence simulations are used for comparing the single stage propagation delay of each inverter and their four-state logic transitions.
Design and Simulation of 4-State SRAMs Using 4-State Quantum Dot Gate (QDG) FETs
Authors: Khan B. , Saman B. , Almalki A. , Gudlavalleti R. H. , Chandy J. , Heller E. , Jain F. C.
Published: July 2024

This paper describes fabrication of Quantum Dot Gate n-FETs using SiOx-cladded Si quantum dot self-assembled on the tunnel gate oxide. Experimental I-V characteristics exhibiting 4-states are presented. Simulation is presented for the operation of viable 4-state SRAMs using QDG-FETs.
Study of Soft Errors in Spiking Neural Network Hardware
Authors: Li Zongming , Wang Lei
Published: July 2024

The problem of soft errors in the hardware implementation of Spiking Neural Networks (SNN) has always been a challenge. SNNs, unlike traditional deep learning networks, simulate the temporal dynamic behavior of biological neurons and emit spikes when a specific threshold is reached. In recent years, the hardware implementation of SNNs has shown great potential in performing efficient and low-power tasks, but as technology nodes shrink and integrated circuit complexity increases, soft errors become a key challenge. To this end, we propose a novel approach based on input and weight analysis, through specific algorithms at the hardware level, to significantly reduce the probability of soft errors affecting the results. In terms of training accuracy, our method maintains a high accuracy under various voltage fluctuation conditions, demonstrating its superior robustness.
SIMULATION OF ACETYLCHOLINESTERASE INHIBITORS’ IMPACTS ON EMERGING AND PROGRESSING ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE BY CELLULAR AUTOMATA MODELING
Authors: JAFARI NILOOFAR , GOLABI FAEGHEH , EBRAHIMI-KALAN ABBAS , SARBAZ YASHAR
Published: July 2024

Due to the complex nature of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), it begins insidiously in the brain many years before the appearance of the first symptoms and is usually diagnosed, when the disease is progressive and symptoms have appeared. It can be said that AD’s emergence is almost untrackable and the straightforward mechanism of AD is still unclear for the most part. Therefore, any kind of research on the emergence of AD can lead to valuable results for predicting and treating AD. Previously, we proposed a novel mathematical model based on cellular automata for the study of Alzheimer’s disease progress. In this paper, cellular automata (CA) mathematical modeling is used as a tool for simulation and experimenting with drugs’ effects in this far-fetched situation. For this goal, immune system interactions and neuron-to-neuron communications are assumed to have prominent roles. We have used the CA network, pathophysiological process, and physiological realities to get a clear insight into neuron-to-neuron communications. Our simple model investigates the influence of three Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitor injections, including Donepezil, Rivastigmine, and Galantamine on the reduction of defined factors such as Alzheimer’s Rate (AR), Critical Rate (CR), and Warning Rate (WR). It is shown that using drugs has different effects on the betterment of neurons and can decrease AR and CR factors and enhance WR, many years before the appearance of symptoms.
MULTI-CLASS AUTOMATED SPEECH LANGUAGE RECOGNITION USING NATURAL LANGUAGE PROCESSING WITH OPTIMAL DEEP LEARNING MODEL
Authors: AL-ANAZI REEMA G. , ALQAHTANI HAMED , ALZAIDI MUHAMMAD SWAILEH A. , ALANAZI MESHARI H. , AL SULTAN HANAN , ALROWAILY AMAL F. , ALJABRI JAWHARA , ALQUDAH ASSAL
Published: July 2024

With technological development, human–computer interaction (HCI) has improved, and spoken communication among machines and humans is one solution to enhance and expedite this process. Researchers have recently explored several systems to improve speech and speaker recognition performance in recent decades. A crucial threat in HCI is developing models that can effectually listen and respond like humans. It resulted in the development of the automated speech emotion recognition (SER) method, which can recognize various emotional classes by electing and extracting effectual features from speech signals. The fundamental problem of automated speech detection is the considerable variation in speech signals because of distinct speakers, language differences, speech differences, contents and acoustic conditions, voice modulation differences based on age and gender. With enhancements in deep learning (DL) and the affordability of computational resources, specifically graphical processing units (GPUs), research underwent a paradigm shift. Therefore, this study develops a multi-class automated speech language recognition using natural language processing with optimal deep learning (MASLR-NLPODL) technique. The MASLR-NLPODL technique intends to accomplish the efficient identification of different spoken languages. In the MASLR-NLPODL technique, the initial preprocessing technique involves windowing, frame blocking, and pre-emphasis block. Next, an adaptive time-frequency feature extractor approach utilizing the discrete fractional Fourier transform (DFrFT) was applied, which can be attained by extending the discrete Fourier transform (DFT) with eigenvectors. An improved Harris hawks optimization (IHHO) technique can be employed to select effectual features. Moreover, the classification of spoken languages can be performed by the gated recurrent unit (GRU) model. Finally, the salp swarm algorithm (SSA)-based hyperparameter selection process is involved in enhancing the performance of the GRU model. The design of the IHHO-based feature selection and SSA-based hyperparameter tuning process demonstrates the novelty of the work. The performance evaluation of the MASLR-NLPODL technique takes place under the VoxForge Dataset. The experimental validation of the MASLR-NLPODL technique exhibited a superior accuracy outcome of 96.40% over existing techniques.
Second-order McKean–Vlasov stochastic evolution equation driven by Poisson jumps: Existence, uniqueness and averaging principle
Authors: Shi Chungang
Published: July 2024

In this paper, a class of second-order McKean–Vlasov stochastic evolution equations driven by Poisson jumps with non-Lipschitz conditions is considered. The existence and uniqueness of the mild solution are established by means of the Carathéodory approximation technique. Furthermore, an averaging principle is obtained between the solution of the second-order McKean–Vlasov stochastic evolution equation and that of the simplified equation in the mean-square sense.
Whittaker modules over the N = 2 Neveu–Schwarz algebra
Authors: Lan Chao , Liu Dong
Published: July 2024

In this paper, we study Whittaker modules over the [Formula: see text] Neveu–Schwarz algebra [Formula: see text]. We first classify all simple finite-dimensional modules over the positive part of [Formula: see text]. Motivated by this classification, we define Whittaker modules and investigate their simplicity. Finally, we also study the simplicity of the quotient modules of the universal Whittaker module if it is not simple.
On clusters and exceptional sets
Authors: Igusa Kiyoshi , Maresca Ray
Published: July 2024

In this paper, we first study clusters in type [Formula: see text] by collecting them into a finite number of infinite families given by Dehn twists of their corresponding triangulations, and show that these families are counted by the Catalan numbers. We also highlight the similarities and differences between the annuli diagrams used to study clusters and those used to study exceptional sets in type [Formula: see text]. We then focus on exceptional collections (sets) of modules over path algebras of quivers by first showing that the notion of relative projectivity in exceptional sets is well defined. We finish by counting the number of exceptional sets of representations of type [Formula: see text] quivers with straight orientation and using this to count the number of families of exceptional sets of type [Formula: see text] with straight orientation.
c-Lactone ring increases the reactivity of cyanocobalamins toward glutathione
Authors: Osokin Vladimir S. , Fugina Darya O. , Dereven’kov Ilia A. , Khodov Ilya A. , Makarov Sergei V.
Published: July 2024

Here, we suggest a new method of increasing the reactivity of cyanocobalamin (CNCbl) and its meso-chlorinated and brominated derivatives (CNCbl-Cl,Br) toward glutathione (GSH) that facilitates their reductive decyanation. In particular, we found that introducing a [Formula: see text]-lactone ring to CNCbl or its halogenated versions substantially accelerates their reduction by GSH to a Co(II)-species. The highest rate of the reaction was observed in the case of CNCbl-Cl [Formula: see text]-lactone. The mechanism of CNCbl [Formula: see text]-lactone reduction by GSH involves the formation of intermediate complexes with GSH, which are further transformed into unstable Co(III)-thiolato species with detached 5,6-dimethylbenzimidazole (DMBI) decomposing to Co(II)-species and thiyl radical. In the case of the reaction involving CNCbl-Cl [Formula: see text]-lactone, a parallel reduction pathway involves direct DMBI substitution by GSH. Besides the formation of Co(II)-species, the reduction of lactone ring occurs in the course of reactions of CNCbl [Formula: see text]-lactones with GSH, giving species possessing lower reactivity toward GSH than initial [Formula: see text]-lactones.
Electrophysical characteristics of film based on 2H-5,10,15,20-tetrakis(para-aminophenyl)porphyrin
Authors: Parfenyuk Vladimir I. , Chulovskaya Svetlana A. , Kuzmin Sergey M.
Published: July 2024

Films of 2H-5,10,15,20-tetrakis (para-aminophenyl) porphyrin were formed from dimethyl sulfoxide via superoxide-assisted electrochemical deposition. The potential regions where the films are formed and the efficiency and dynamics of the film deposition process are estimated by the quartz microbalance method. Ten-fold potential cycling produced smooth continuous films of electropolymerized porphyrin with a thickness of about 100 nm. The average film roughness of a sample of 3 × 3 μm was 2.4 nm. Using the Mott-Schottky method was determined that the obtained film possesses p-type conductivity with a donor density of 8.7 × 10[Formula: see text] cm[Formula: see text] and a flatband potential of about 1.01 V.
A new encoding/decoding algorithm via Fibonacci–Lucas tree diagrams
Authors: Özgür Ni̇hal , Uçar Sümeyra , Taş Ni̇hal , Kaymak Öznur Öztunç
Published: July 2024

In this paper, we present a new encoding and decoding method based on the recently introduced Minesweeper Model. Here, the main idea is to use Fibonacci–Lucas tree diagrams, and this proposed method uses a public key and a private key. To test this method, a new algorithm is constructed to enable a faster and more accurate control.
FDI REFORMS AND INDUSTRIAL WAGE AFTER THE LAUNCH OF “MAKE IN INDIA”: EMPIRICAL EVIDENCE
Authors: AHMED AAHELI , CHAKRABORTY DEBASHIS
Published: July 2024

India gradually started liberalizing its industrial, trade and foreign direct investment (FDI) related policies since the launch of economic reforms in 1991. The empirical evidence on the impact of FDI spillovers on industrial wages in India has generated mixed results so far. The current study analysed the impact of FDI inflows on the real wage rates of the workers using data from seven major industrial sectors between 2001–2002 to 2019–2020. The two-stage least squares (2SLS) estimation results suggest that FDI inflows positively influenced both the skilled and unskilled wage rates. Moreover, FDI inflows in productive sectors led to a greater rise in wages vis-à-vis the unproductive sectors. In addition, key government policy initiatives like the Make-in-India (MII) scheme and FDI reforms were found to be effectively enhancing wage rates, though the impact on skilled wage rates was greater. The paper stressed the need to create a holistic environment that can attract FDI in both upstream and downstream segments, facilitating India’s deeper participation in global value chains (GVCs) and IPNs on the one hand and realisation of associated dynamic benefits on the other.
Design and Improvement of Tandem Twin-Rotor Aerial-Aquatic Vehicle Based on Numerical Analysis
Authors: Wu Sifan , Shao Maosen , Wu Sihuan , He Zhilin , Zhao Shangfei , Zhang Jinxiu , Liu Yuan
Published: July 2024

To enhance the air–water adaptability of the aerial-aquatic vehicles (AAVs), an improved tandem twin-rotor AAV design is proposed based on the characteristics and application requirements of air–water cross-domain movement. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software was used to simulate the underwater cruising state and dynamic water entry process of the tandem twin-rotor AAV. Results indicate that the underwater cruise resistance of the improved tandem twin-rotor AAV is relatively small. Among them, the two sets of tandem air power systems account for a relatively large proportion of the underwater drag, about 29.8%, while the drag reduction achieved by improving the head shape is around 15.4%. The head shape, water entry angle and speed have a great influence on the water entry trajectory and attitude of the tandem twin-rotor AAV. Following improvement, the tandem twin-rotor AAV demonstrates an enhancement in reducing the deviation of the water entry trajectory, mitigating water surface ricochet and enhancement of water entry depth to a certain extent. The inclination angle should be in the range of 20–30∘ to alleviate unfavorable outcomes, including prolonged water entry time caused by water surface ricochet at lower entry angles, while concurrently mitigating the heightened impact pressure resulting from steeper entry angles. Higher entry velocities lead to greater impact pressures, necessitating careful consideration of water entry depth and impact pressure to prevent adverse effects on structural integrity.
Research Experiences for Undergraduates Are Necessary for an Equitable Research Community
Authors: Sunshine Joshua , Velez-Ginorio Joey
Published: July 2024

Encouraging the expansion of undergraduate research programs.
Attracting IT Talent: A Kano Analysis of Employer Attributes
Authors: Oehlhorn Caroline Ernestine , Maier Christian , Laumer Sven , Weitzel Tim
Published: July 2024

Recruiting information technology (IT) talent remains a pressing issue for employers. Organizations therefore work on enhancing and highlighting their attractiveness. Drawing on the theory of attractive quality, the Kano model, we empirically investigate attributes that specifically attract IT talents in a recruiting context. Based on 30 interviews and a survey of 301 IT professionals and IT students, we identify and evaluate 24 attractiveness attributes that are further classified according to the nature of their role in attracting IT talent. The attribute identification and evaluation involve several steps including categorization, significance, and verification testing. Our research introduces Kano analysis as a useful tool to elicit nontrivial preference portfolios relevant to the IT job market. The empirical results add to the IT workforce literature and offer a concrete classification of what attributes employers should or even need to provide to recruit these scarce talents. The analysis also discloses differences in the survey participants' work experience and gender. Organizations can use the method to develop more effective candidate communication and reveal weak spots in their employer branding efforts.
How Design Researchers Make Sense of Data Visualizations in Data-Driven Design: An Uncertainty-Aware Sensemaking Model
Authors: Dritsa Dimitra , Houben Steven
Published: July 2024

While data is the cornerstone of modern design strategies, design researchers frequently struggle when performing data work. This creates a need to design tools that enable design researchers to actively engage with data. However, this presupposes understanding how design researchers create meaning from data representations, as the way of visualizing the data, along with other factors, can significantly impact the extracted insights, increasing uncertainty about the quality of the outcome. As a response to this problem, we explore how design researchers make sense of data in a case study: making sense of paired subjective and objective sleep and stress data visualizations. By synthesizing our findings from two user studies, we construct a sensemaking model which highlights how uncertainty related to data qualities, visualization parameters, and the viewer's background affects the insight-generation process. Our findings have implications for the future development of tools and techniques for visual data sensemaking for designers.
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Activities in Database Conferences: A 2023 Report
Authors: Amer-Yahia Sihem , Agrawal Divyakant , Amsterdamer Yael , Bhowmick Sourav S. , Borovica-Gajic Renata , Camacho-Rodríguez Jesús , Cao Jinli , Catania Barbara , Chrysanthis Panos K. , Curino Carlo , El Abbadi Amr , Floratou Avrilia , Freire Juliana , Idreos Stratos , Kalogeraki Vana , Maiyya Sujaya , Meliou Alexandra , Mohanty Madhulika , Özcan Fatma , Peterfreund Liat , Sahri Soror , Sellami Sana , Shraga Roee , Sirin Utku , Tan Wang-Chiew , Thuraisingham Bhavani , Tian Yuanyuan , Vargas-Solar Genoveva , Zhang Meihui , Zhang Wenjie
Published: July 2024

The Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) initiative started as the Diversity/Inclusion initiative in 2020 [4]. The current report summarizes our activities in 2023.
Ethnic differences in postprandial fatty acid trafficking and utilization between overweight and obese White European and Black African-Caribbean men
Authors: Reed Reuben M. , Shojaee-Moradie Fariba , Whelehan Gráinne , Jackson Nicola , Witard Oliver C. , Umpleby Margot , Fielding Barbara A. , Whyte Martin B. , Goff Louise M.
Published: July 2024

Postprandial TAG is lower in Black African-Caribbean men than in White European men, and this is likely driven by lower meal-derived VLDL-TAG in Black African-Caribbean men. This observation could suggest that fatty acid trafficking may be a less important determinant of cardiometabolic risk in Black Africans than in White European men.
Analysis, Estimation, and Practical Implementations of the Discrete Power Quasi‐Xgamma Distribution
Authors: Ahsan-ul-Haq Muhammad , Hussain Muhammad N. S. , Babar Ayesha , Al-Essa Laila A. , Eliwa Mohamed S.
Published: July 2024

In this study, we introduce a new three‐parameter discrete power quasi‐Xgamma (DPQXg) distribution. A detailed analysis of the mathematical and statistical properties of the DPQXg distribution demonstrates various important features. It has been observed that the DPQXg distribution can be used for analyzing both asymmetric and symmetric datasets exhibiting platykurtic and leptokurtic shapes. The hazard rate function of the distribution has both increasing and decreasing failure rates. Furthermore, the dispersion index of the DPQXg distribution indicates that the new statistical model can analyze both over‐ and underdispersed datasets. The parameter estimation of the statistical model is conducted using the maximum likelihood estimation approach. A simulation is carried out to assess the performance of the DPQXg estimator. Finally, real‐world datasets from different fields are used to demonstrate the practical utility of the DPQXg distribution.
Epidemiological Characteristics of the Lumpy Skin Disease Outbreak in Nawalpur, Nepal, 2022
Authors: Pokharel Dhakal Sujeeta , Karki Surendra , Vandyk Sarah , Upadhyaya Mukul , Pandey Krishnaraj , Dhakal Aashish , Premashthira Sith
Published: July 2024

Lumpy skin disease (LSD) is an economically important and notifiable transboundary viral disease of cattle and water buffalo, predominantly transmitted by arthropod vectors. In recent times, LSD has emerged as a notable concern in Nepal, with the first outbreak reported in June 2020, in Morang district. In 2022, outbreaks of LSD were observed in several districts with Nawalpur district being the hard‐hit district. The objective of this study is to provide insights into the epidemiological characteristics of LSD, to identify potential sources and associated risk factors for LSD outbreak in Nawalpur, and its financial impact. The overall morbidity rate was observed to be 28.02% (n = 431/1,538) and the mortality rate was 3.06% (n = 47/1,538), resulting in a case fatality rate of 10.90% (n = 47/431). The predominant clinical symptoms were skin nodules, lameness, and decreased milk production in milking animals. Dry cattle, including pregnant cows and cattle heifers were the most affected. Univariable logistic regression analysis identified factors linked to disease outbreaks, such as importing animals from disease prevalent regions, sharing feed and water, herd size, and the presence of clinical signs in neighboring farms. Multivariable analysis highlighted the significance of neighboring farms having sick animals in resulting disease outbreaks. Because of the substantial economic impact due to LSD, it is imperative to implement effective control and preventive measures. These include animal movement control and quarantine, following biosecurity protocols during nearby outbreaks, and targeted vaccination of susceptible populations to prevent further disease spread.
Assessment of Computational Technicalities for 2D/1D Coupling Method and Its Comparison with 3D MOC
Authors: Kong Boran , Zhang Han , Dou Qinrong , Liu Zhaoyuan , Hao Chen , Guo Jiong , Li Fu
Published: July 2024

The 2D/1D coupling method is recognized as one of the preferred high‐fidelity calculation methods for reactors featured with well homogeneity in the axial direction. However, the choices of the technicalities, such as transverse leakage, axial solver, and transverse leakage splitting method, will lead to different calculational performance. This paper outlines the theory of the 2D/1D coupling method and describes the detailed implementations of the key technicalities. Based on numerical tests, the choices of the related calculational parameters are analyzed, such as the order of the quadrature set, ray spacing, and the axial mesh size. Then, the computational performance of six typical 2D/1D technicalities is compared and assessed. A comparison between 2D/1D coupling method and direct 3D MOC calculation is also made. For the transverse leakage, the Fourier expansion technique could significantly reduce the memory burden and computational cost, but with the similar accuracy as the anisotropic leakage term. It is recommended to use the axial DGFEM SN solver, which has better consistency and leads to higher computational efficiency. Additionally, the results also show that the 2D/1D coupling method can appropriately increase the axial mesh size, which only has slight effect on the accuracy. For nuclear reactors featured with nonstrong heterogeneity in axial direction, the 2D/1D coupling method has significant advantages than the direct 3D MOC calculation.