bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Artificial Intelligence Capability and Organizational Creativity: The Role of Knowledge Sharing and Organizational Cohesion
Authors: Li Na , Yan Yapeng , Yang Yuting , Gu Anwei
Published: March 2022

The rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) has brought many opportunities and challenges to organization. Some studies have shown that AI can improve organizational creativity. However, the existing research lacks an effective transformation path. This paper makes an innovative approach from the perspective of knowledge sharing, establishes an integration model of artificial intelligence capability, knowledge sharing and organizational creativity. Based on 189 questionnaire data, we use multi-level regression analysis and bootstrap method to analyze the influence mechanism. The results show that artificial intelligence has a positive effect on knowledge sharing, knowledge sharing has a positive effect on organizational creativity, knowledge sharing mediates the relationship between artificial intelligence and organizational creativity, and organizational cohesion has a positive moderating effect on the relationship between artificial intelligence and knowledge sharing. The results supplement the existing research on the relationship between artificial intelligence capability and organizational creativity, expand the theoretical boundary and application space from the perspective of knowledge sharing at the organizational level, and provide reference for organizations to improve creativity.
Catalytic Reaction Model of Suicide
Authors: McPherson Pamela , Sall Saveen , Santos Aurianna , Thompson Willie , Dwyer Donard S.
Published: March 2022

Suicide is a devastating outcome of unresolved issues that affect mental health, general wellbeing and socioeconomic stress. The biology of suicidal behavior is still poorly understood, although progress has been made. Suicidal behavior runs in families and genetic studies have provided initial glimpses into potential genes that contribute to suicide risk. Here, we attempt to unify the biology and behavioral dimensions into a model that can guide research in this area. The proposed model envisions suicidal behavior as a catalytic reaction that may result in suicide depending on the conditions, analogously to enzyme catalysis of chemical reactions. A wide array of substrates or reactants, such as hopelessness, depression, debilitating illnesses and diminished motivation can mobilize suicidal thoughts and behaviors (STBs), which can then catalyze the final step/act of suicide. Here, we focus on three biological substrates in particular: threat assessment, motivation to engage in life and impulsivity. Genetic risk factors can affect each of these processes and tilt the balance toward suicidal behavior when existential crises (real or perceived) emerge such as loss of a loved one, sudden changes in social status or serious health issues. Although suicide is a uniquely human behavior, many of the fundamental biological processes are evolutionarily conserved. Insights from animal models may help to shape our understanding of suicidal behavior in man. By examining counterparts of the major biological processes in other organisms, new ideas about the role of genetic risk factors may emerge along with possible therapeutic interventions or preventive measures.
Reduced Serum Levels of Soluble Interleukin-15 Receptor α in Schizophrenia and Its Relationship to the Excited Phenotype
Authors: He Yi , Bo Qijing , Mao Zhen , Yang Jian , Liu Min , Wang Haixia , Kastin Abba J. , Pan Weihong , Wang Chuanyue , Sun Zuoli
Published: March 2022

Our previous studies documented that interleukin-15 receptor α (IL-15Rα) knockout (KO) mice exhibited hyperactivity, memory impairment, and desperate behavior, which are core features of schizophrenia and depression. Due to the overlapping symptomology and pathogenesis observed for schizophrenia and depression, the present study attempted to determine whether IL-15Rα was associated with the risk of schizophrenia or depression. One hundred fifty-six participants, including 63 schizophrenia patients, 29 depressive patients, and 64 age-matched healthy controls, were enrolled in the study. We investigated the circulating levels of soluble IL-15Rα and analyzed potential links between the IL-15Rα levels and clinical symptoms present in schizophrenia or depressive patients. We observed reduced serum IL-15Rα levels in schizophrenia patients, but not depressive patients compared with controls. Moreover, a significant negative association was observed between the circulating IL-15Rα levels and excited phenotypes in the schizophrenia patients. The IL-15Rα KO mice displayed pronounced pre-pulse inhibition impairment, which was a typical symptom of schizophrenia. Interestingly, the IL-15Rα KO mice exhibited a remarkable elevation in the startle amplitude in the startle reflex test compared to wild type mice. These results demonstrated that serum levels of soluble IL-15Rα were reduced in schizophrenia and highlighted the relationship of IL-15Rα and the excited phenotype in schizophrenia patients and mice.
Case Report: Low-Frequency Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation to Dorsolateral Prefrontal Cortex and Auditory Cortex in a Patient With Tinnitus and Depression
Authors: Chang Chun-Hung , Wang Wen-Lung , Shieh Yu-Hui , Peng Han-Yuan , Ho Chen-Syuan , Tsai Hsin-Chi
Published: March 2022

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) has been widely used as a promising therapy for tinnitus. However, the exact target and stimulation sequence of rTMS that is most effective for treating tinnitus remains unclear. Here, we report a case of a 62-year-old man with treatment-refractory tinnitus and depression whose symptoms markedly improved after undergoing low-frequency rTMS over the right-side dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and left auditory cortex area. Our report indicates that low-frequency rTMS treatment that stimulates multiple brain regions sequentially is feasible and may clinically benefit patients with tinnitus and depression.
Research on the Integration of Cultural Tourism Industry Driven by Digital Economy in the Context of COVID-19—Based on the Data of 31 Chinese Provinces
Authors: Li Xiangyin , Liang Xueping , Yu Ting , Ruan Sijia , Fan Rui
Published: March 2022

This article examines the impact of digital economy on the integration of China's cultural tourism industry in the context of COVID-19 by measuring the integration degree of cultural tourism industry as a substitute variable of cultural tourism integration. The empirical study found that the development of digital economy during the COVID-19 pandemic did promote the integration of China's cultural tourism industry, and compared with year 2019, the digital economy has strengthened the integration of cultural tourism industry. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the development of digital economy has promoted the integration of China's cultural tourism industry, and the positive effect of digital economy on the integration of China's cultural tourism industry has gradually strengthened compared to previous ones. The digital economy has played a mediating role in the impact of COVID-19 on the integration of China's cultural tourism industry. Therefore, China should formulate macropolicies and digital economy-related policies to strengthen the ability of digital economy to deal with risks and improve the digital system.
Pasteur, Vaccines, and the Refusal to Become Fully Vaccinated in the Midst of the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Pavia Charles S.
Published: March 2022

Vaccines are one of the most effective public health measures that are designed to prevent serious illness caused by a wide variety of infectious agents, which have become especially important in light of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Despite the favorable outcomes associated with vaccine development and use, a new wave of hesitancy to get vaccinated has emerged that threatens the control or quick elimination of the highly contagious and life-threatening infection caused by SARS-CoV-2. At the forefront of the current anti-vaccine movement is the dissemination of false and misleading information. This essay explores the primary reasons, which also includes an historical connection, behind this anti-vaccine sentiment, and proposes several possible and realistic interventions that could be implemented to counter this notion and significantly improve vaccine acceptance, especially among young people.
Evidence of SARS-CoV-2 Related Coronaviruses Circulating in Sunda pangolins (Manis javanica) Confiscated From the Illegal Wildlife Trade in Viet Nam
Authors: Nga Nguyen Thi Thanh , Latinne Alice , Thuy Hoang Bich , Long Nguyen Van , Ngoc Pham Thi Bich , Anh Nguyen Thi Lan , Thai Nguyen Van , Phuong Tran Quang , Thai Hoang Van , Hai Lam Kim , Long Pham Thanh , Phuong Nguyen Thanh , Hung Vo Van , Quang Le Tin Vinh , Lan Nguyen Thi , Hoa Nguyen Thi , Johnson Christine K. , Mazet Jonna A. K. , Roberton Scott I. , Walzer Chris , Olson Sarah H. , Fine Amanda E.
Published: March 2022

Despite the discovery of several closely related viruses in bats, the direct evolutionary progenitor of SARS-CoV-2 has not yet been identified. In this study, we investigated potential animal sources of SARS-related coronaviruses using archived specimens from Sunda pangolins (Manis javanica) and Chinese pangolins (Manis pentadactyla) confiscated from the illegal wildlife trade, and from common palm civets (Paradoxurus hermaphroditus) raised on wildlife farms in Viet Nam. A total of 696 pangolin and civet specimens were screened for the presence of viral RNA from five zoonotic viral families and from Sarbecoviruses using primers specifically designed for pangolin coronaviruses. We also performed a curated data collection of media reports of wildlife confiscation events involving pangolins in Viet Nam between January 2016 and December 2020, to illustrate the global pangolin supply chain in the context of Viet Nam where the trade confiscated pangolins were sampled for this study. All specimens from pangolins and civets sampled along the wildlife supply chains between February 2017 and July 2018, in Viet Nam and tested with conventional PCR assays designed to detect flavivirus, paramyxovirus, filovirus, coronavirus, and orthomyxovirus RNA were negative. Civet samples were also negative for Sarbecoviruses, but 12 specimens from seven live pangolins confiscated in Hung Yen province, northern Viet Nam, in 2018 were positive for Sarbecoviruses. Our phylogenetic trees based on two fragments of the RdRp gene revealed that the Sarbecoviruses identified in these pangolins were closely related to pangolin coronaviruses detected in pangolins confiscated from the illegal wildlife trade in Yunnan and Guangxi provinces, China. Our curated data collection of media reports of wildlife confiscation events involving pangolins in Viet Nam between January 2016 and December 2020, reflected what is known about pangolin trafficking globally. Pangolins confiscated in Viet Nam were largely in transit, moving toward downstream consumers in China. Confiscations included pangolin scales sourced originally from Africa (and African species of pangolins), or pangolin carcasses and live pangolins native to Southeast Asia (predominately the Sunda pangolin) sourced from neighboring range countries and moving through Viet Nam toward provinces bordering China.
A Hybrid PAC Reinforcement Learning Algorithm for Human-Robot Interaction
Authors: Zehfroosh Ashkan , Tanner Herbert G.
Published: March 2022

This paper offers a new hybrid probably approximately correct (PAC) reinforcement learning (RL) algorithm for Markov decision processes (MDPs) that intelligently maintains favorable features of both model-based and model-free methodologies. The designed algorithm, referred to as the Dyna-Delayed Q-learning (DDQ) algorithm, combines model-free Delayed Q-learning and model-based R-max algorithms while outperforming both in most cases. The paper includes a PAC analysis of the DDQ algorithm and a derivation of its sample complexity. Numerical results are provided to support the claim regarding the new algorithm’s sample efficiency compared to its parents as well as the best known PAC model-free and model-based algorithms in application. A real-world experimental implementation of DDQ in the context of pediatric motor rehabilitation facilitated by infant-robot interaction highlights the potential benefits of the reported method.
Tentorial Notch Meningiomas: Innovative Preoperative Management and Literature Review
Authors: Cannizzaro Delia , Milani Davide , Zaed Ismail , Tropeano Maria Pia , Nicolosi Federico , Costa Francesco , Servadei Franco , Fornari Maurizio , D'Angelo Vincenzo , Cardia Andrea
Published: March 2022

Background

Tentorial meningiomas account for only 3–6% of all intracranial meningiomas. Among them, tentorial incisura (notch) location must be considered as a subgroup with specific surgical anatomy and indications, morbidity, and mortality. In this study, we propose an update on preoperative management in order to reduce postoperative deficits.

Methods

We retrospectively collected adult patients treated for incisural meningioma between January 1992 and December 2016 in two different neurosurgical departments. Demographic, clinical, and neuroradiological preoperative and postoperative data were analyzed. In the most recent subgroup of tumors, a preoperative digital simulation was performed to define a volumetric digital quantification of the tumor resection. A review of the pertinent literature has been also done.

Results

We included 26 patients. The median age was 58.4 years. Onset neurological signs were cranial nerve deficit in 9 patients, hemiparesis in 7, gait disturbance in 3, and intracranial hypertension in 3 patients. Simpson grade I removal was achieved in 12 patients, II in 10, III in 3, and IV in 1 patient. An overall rate of 23% postoperative complications was observed. The average follow-up duration was 68.5 months. Residual tumor was reported in 8 patients. Five patients underwent gamma knife radiosurgery. In 34.6% of patients, the surgical approach was chosen with preoperative digital planning estimating the potential volume of postoperative residual tumor, the target for radiosurgical treatment.

Conclusions

A multidisciplinary approach to plan incisural meningiomas management is important. To lower postoperative morbidity and mortality, a careful preoperative case analysis is useful. A planned residual tumor, supported by preoperative simulation imaging, could be safely treated with radiosurgery.
Access to Veterinary Drugs in Sub-Saharan Africa: Roadblocks and Current Solutions
Authors: Jaime Glória , Hobeika Alexandre , Figuié Muriel
Published: March 2022

Background

Access to veterinary drugs for livestock has become a major issue over the last decade. Analysis has tended to focus on the demand for these products, while studies looking at the drivers behind their use generally focus on farmer behavior and interactions between veterinarians and farmers. However, the use of drugs also depends on structural factors that determine the functioning of the drug supply chain and farmers' access to the drugs. This article presents an overview of the factors that limit access to veterinary drugs in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) as well as the international policy tools and arrangements that claim to improve it.

Methods

We have conducted a scoping review of the scientific and grey literature as well as the publicly-available data from both the animal health industry and international organizations. We aimed to gather information on the veterinary drugs market in SSA as well as on the international norms, recommendations, guidelines, and initiatives that impact SSA farmers' access to these drugs.

Findings

We highlight numerous barriers to veterinary drug access in SSA. The SSA market is highly dependent on imports, yet the region attracts little attention from the international companies capable of exporting to it. It suffers from a high level of fragmentation and weak distribution infrastructures and services, and is driven by the multiplication of private non-professional actors playing a growing role in the veterinary drug supply chain. The distribution system is increasingly dualized, with on the one hand the public sector (supported by development organizations) supplying small scale farmers in rural areas, but with limited and irregular means; and on the other side a private sector largely unregulated which supplies commercial and industrial farming systems. Different innovations have been developed at the international and regional levels to try to reduce barriers, such as homogenizing national legislations, donations, and vaccine banks. Alongside decades-old inter-state cooperation, many new forms of public-private partnerships and other hybrid forums continue to emerge, signaling the private sector's increasing influence in global governance.

Conclusions

Policies on animal health would be bolstered by a better understanding of the drivers behind and the components of access to veterinary drugs in different regional and national contexts. Inequalities in drug access need to be addressed and a market-driven approach adopted in order to strengthen our understanding of what determines veterinary drug use at the farm level. Policies should balance the interests of the various stakeholders, being careful not to reinforce bias toward certain diseases deemed “interesting” and neglect others that could prove to be highly important for veterinary public health.
Cutting Mechanism Rotor System Dynamic Characteristics of Cantilever Roadheader under Random Hard Rock Load
Authors: Zhang Zhonghai , Chen Shiqi , Liu Yutao , Wang Hao , Cao Chao
Published: March 2022

Accurately mastering the power transmission characteristics of the cutting arm transmission shaft system is key to improving the reliability and working capacity of the cantilever roadheader. Based on the rigid–flexible coupling vibration characteristic modeling of the roadheader cutting arm, the vibration characteristics of different substructures in the transmission shaft system of the roadheader cutting arm were considered, the dynamic characteristic model was comprehensively constructed, and the numerical analysis was carried out with the parameters of the XTR260 tunnel hard rock roadheader to compare the vibration characteristics of the cutting head under different cutting conditions. The experiment was carried out by using an artificial concrete wall, and the measurement results verify the established dynamic model that lays the foundation for the dynamic design of a high-performance roadheader.
Aircraft Propeller Design through Constrained Aero-Structural Particle Swarm Optimization
Authors: Hoyos José D. , Jiménez Jesús H. , Echavarría Camilo , Alvarado Juan P. , Urrea Germán
Published: March 2022

An aero-structural algorithm to reduce the energy consumption of a propeller-driven aircraft is developed through a propeller design method coupled with a Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO). A wide range of propeller parameters is considered in the optimization, including the geometry of the airfoil at each propeller section. The propeller performance prediction tool employs a convergence improved Blade Element Momentum Theory fed by airfoil aerodynamic characteristics obtained from XFOIL and a validated OpenFOAM. A stall angle correction is estimated from experimental NACA 4-digits data and employed where convergence issues emerge. The aerodynamic data are corrected to account for compressibility, three-dimensional, viscous, and Reynolds number effects. The coefficients for the rotational corrections are proposed from experimental data fitting. A structural model based on Euler-Bernoulli beam theory is employed and validated against Finite Element Analysis, while the impact of centrifugal forces is discussed. A case of study is carried out where the chord and pitch distributions are compared to minimal losses distribution from vortex theory. Wind tunnel tests were performed with printed propellers to conclude the feasibility of the entire routine and the differences between XFOIL and CFD optimal propellers. Finally, the optimal CFD propeller is compared against a commercial propeller with the same diameter, pitch, and operational conditions, showing higher thrust and efficiency.
Digital Twin-Driven Reconfigurable Fixturing Optimization for Trimming Operation of Aircraft Skins
Authors: Hu Fuwen
Published: March 2022

The incomplete constraint induced by multipoint reconfigurable fixturing and the inherently weak rigidity of thin shell parts significantly hinder the stability of flexible fixturing systems. In particular, during the trimming operation, the number of effective locators may change with the progressive separation of the desired shape from that of the blank part, which easily produces the cliff effect (instantaneous dramatic reduction) of the system stiffness. As a result, the location layout becomes a main crux in reality. Regarding this issue, the author herein presents a digital twin-based decision-making methodology to generate reconfigurable fixturing schemes through integrating virtual and physical information. Considering the intrinsic features of the trimming process, such as the time-varying propagation of the system stiffness and the coupling effects of multiattribute process parameters, the hidden Markov model was introduced to cope with reconfigurable fixturing optimization. To achieve fast convergence and seek a feasible solution, local information (where low system rigidity occurs) was extracted and shared to guide the optimization process in a front-running simulation. To demonstrate the presented method, trimming experiments were performed on a large-size compliant workpiece held by a reconfigurable fixturing system that was developed independently by our research group. The experimental results indicate that the proposed method could adaptively iterate out the optimal locating schema and process control reference from the virtual fixturing and trimming simulation to guarantee the time-varying stability of the trimming process in the real world. Clearly, the digital twin-based reconfigurable fixturing planning approach generated a high possibility of building a context-specific, closed-loop decision-making paradigm and allowing the reconfigurable fixturing system to behave in a more adaptable and flexible manner.
The Sustainability of Contract Farming with Specialized Suppliers to Modern Retailers: Insights from Vegetable Marketing in Indonesia
Authors: Ikeda Shinya , Natawidjaja Ronnie S.
Published: March 2022

Specialized suppliers to supermarkets in rural Java showed that smallholder farmers could engage in contract farming with the rise of retail modernization. This paper examines whether they have sustained contract farming with the recent decline of modernized stores. Our field survey, based on cases reported by the World Bank in 2006, provides the following findings: (1) Some suppliers failed to sustain contract farming due to growers’ hold-up problems; (2) The suppliers could prevent contract breaching by either undertaking contract-specific investments to train growers or provide inputs. Moreover, they selected growers based on their social reputation to avoid contract breaching; (3) We found that farmers in breach of contract farming on the modern channel begin to arrange farmers’ groups by themselves and return to the traditional channel as a new type of intermediaries. This indicates an evolution of the traditional marketing channel with the supermarket revolution.
Feature Wavelength Selection Based on the Combination of Image and Spectrum for Aflatoxin B1 Concentration Classification in Single Maize Kernels
Authors: Zhou Quan , Huang Wenqian , Tian Xi
Published: March 2022

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is a very strong carcinogen, maize kernels are easily infected by this toxin during storage. Rapid and accurate identification of AFB1 is of great significance to ensure food safety. In this study, a novel method for classification of AFB1 in single maize kernels was developed. Four groups of maize kernel samples with different AFB1 concentrations (10, 20, 50, and 100 ppb) were prepared by artificial inoculation of toxin. In addition, one group of maize kernel samples without AFB1 were prepared as control, each group with 70 samples. The visible and short wave near-infrared (Vis-SWNIR) region (500–1000 nm) and long wave near-infrared (LWNIR) region (1000–2000 nm) hyperspectral images of all samples were obtained respectively, and the hyperspectral images in 500–2000 nm range was obtained after spectral pretreatment and fusion. Kennard-Stone algorithm was used to divide the samples into calibration set or prediction set. Competitive adaptive reweighted sampling (CARS) and successive projections algorithm (SPA) were used to roughly select the characteristic wavelengths of the calibration set samples, and 25 and 26 effective wavelengths were obtained respectively. Based on the roughly selected wavelengths, a method of fine selection of the characteristic wavelengths was proposed by using the gray-value difference of image (GDI), and a few number of characteristic wavelengths were further selected. Under the LDA classification model, 10 characteristic wavelengths were selected to test the prediction set and the independent verification samples, and the ideal result were obtained with an accuracy of 94.46% and 91.11%, respectively. This study provides a new approach for AFB1 concentration classification of single maize kernels.
Fuzzy Comprehensive Evaluation for Grasping Prioritization of Stacked Fruit Clusters Based on Relative Hierarchy Factor Set
Authors: Zhang Qian , Zhao Zhenghui , Gao Guoqin
Published: March 2022

To solve the problems of unclear boundaries and inconsistent influence weights among prioritization evaluation factors for grasping stacked fruit clusters by parallel robots, a fuzzy comprehensive evaluation method for the grasping prioritization of stacked fruit clusters based on a relative hierarchy factor set is proposed. According to the morphological features of stacked fruit clusters and motion features of parallel robots, a hierarchical tree model without a cross based on a subtree structure is constructed to analyze the multiple factors with unclear boundaries. A relative factor set with positive and negative effects is constructed, and a mathematical expectation is used to construct an average random consistency index and consistency satisfaction value for improving the consistency of influence weights and precision of consistency verification for a comparison matrix. The weight vector is constructed from the top to the bottom of the model, and the membership matrix of the multi-layer factors and grasping prioritization are calculated from bottom to top. The results showed that the average precision of grasping prioritization of stacked fruit clusters based on the proposed method increased by 27.77% compared with the existing fuzzy comprehensive evaluation method. The proposed method can effectively improve prioritization precision for grasping randomly stacked fruit clusters affected by multiple factors and can further realize accurate automatic sorting.
Cellulolytic Properties of a Potentially Lignocellulose-Degrading Bacillus sp. 8E1A Strain Isolated from Bulk Soil
Authors: Dobrzyński Jakub , Wróbel Barbara , Górska Ewa Beata
Published: March 2022

Cellulolytic enzymes produced by spore-forming bacteria seem to be a potential solution to the degradation of lignocellulosic waste. In this study, several dozen bacterial spore-forming strains were isolated from soil and one of them was selected for further studies. The studied bacterial strain was identified to genus Bacillus (strain 8E1A) by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Bacillus sp. 8E1A showed an activity of carboxymethyl cellulase (CMCase) with visualization with Congo Red-25 mm (size of clear zone). To study CMCase, filter paper hydrolase (FPase), and microcrystalline cellulose Avicel hydrolase (Avicelase) production, three different cellulose sources were used for bacterial strain cultivation: carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), filter paper (FP), and microcrystalline cellulose Avicel. The highest CMCase (0.617 U mL−1), FPase (0.903 U mL−1), and Avicelase (0.645 U mL−1) production of Bacillus sp. 8E1A was noted for using CMC (after 216 h of incubation), Avicel cellulose (after 144 h of incubation), and CMC (after 144 h of incubation), respectively. Subsequently, the cellulases’ activity was measured at various temperatures and pH values. The optimal temperature for CMCase (0.535 U mL−1) and Avicelase (0.666 U mL−1) activity was 70 °C. However, the highest FPase (0.868 U mL−1) activity was recorded at 60 °C. The highest CMCase and Avicelase activity was recorded at pH 7.0 (0.520 and 0.507 U mL−1, respectively), and the optimum activity of FPase was noted at pH 6.0 (0.895 U mL−1). These results indicate that the cellulases produced by the Bacillus sp. 8E1A may conceivably be used for lignocellulosic waste degradation in industrial conditions.
Correction: Silva et al. Precision Technologies to Address Dairy Cattle Welfare: Focus on Lameness, Mastitis and Body Condition. Animals 2021, 11, 2253
Authors: Silva Severiano R. , Araujo José P. , Guedes Cristina , Silva Flávio , Almeida Mariana , Cerqueira Joaquim L.
Published: March 2022

The authors (Silva, S.R., et al.) unintentionally omitted to cite the article by O’Leary et al. [...]
Overview of the Clinical and Molecular Features of Legionella Pneumophila: Focus on Novel Surveillance and Diagnostic Strategies
Authors: Gattuso Giuseppe , Rizzo Roberta , Lavoro Alessandro , Spoto Vincenzoleo , Porciello Giuseppe , Montagnese Concetta , Cinà Diana , Cosentino Alessia , Lombardo Cinzia , Mezzatesta Maria Lina , Salmeri Mario
Published: March 2022

Legionella pneumophila (L. pneumophila) is one of the most threatening nosocomial pathogens. The implementation of novel and more effective surveillance and diagnostic strategies is mandatory to prevent the occurrence of legionellosis outbreaks in hospital environments. On these bases, the present review is aimed to describe the main clinical and molecular features of L. pneumophila focusing attention on the latest findings on drug resistance mechanisms. In addition, a detailed description of the current guidelines for the disinfection and surveillance of the water systems is also provided. Finally, the diagnostic strategies available for the detection of Legionella spp. were critically reviewed, paying the attention to the description of the culture, serological and molecular methods as well as on the novel high-sensitive nucleic acid amplification systems, such as droplet digital PCR.
Ginkgo biloba in the Aging Process: A Narrative Review
Authors: Barbalho Sandra Maria , Direito Rosa , Laurindo Lucas Fornari , Marton Ledyane Taynara , Guiguer Elen Landgraf , Goulart Ricardo de Alvares , Tofano Ricardo José , Carvalho Antonely C. A. , Flato Uri Adrian Prync , Capelluppi Tofano Viviane Alessandra , Detregiachi Cláudia Rucco Penteado , Bueno Patrícia C. Santos , Girio Raul S. J. , Araújo Adriano Cressoni
Published: March 2022

Neurodegenerative diseases, cardiovascular disease (CVD), hypertension, insulin resistance, cancer, and other degenerative processes commonly appear with aging. Ginkgo biloba (GB) is associated with several health benefits, including memory and cognitive improvement, in Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), and cancer. Its antiapoptotic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory actions have effects on cognition and other conditions associated with aging-related processes, such as insulin resistance, hypertension, and cardiovascular conditions. The aim of this study was to perform a narrative review of the effects of GB in some age-related conditions, such as neurodegenerative diseases, CVD, and cancer. PubMed, Cochrane, and Embase databases were searched, and the PRISMA guidelines were applied. Fourteen clinical trials were selected; the studies showed that GB can improve memory, cognition, memory scores, psychopathology, and the quality of life of patients. Moreover, it can improve cerebral blood flow supply, executive function, attention/concentration, non-verbal memory, and mood, and decrease stress, fasting serum glucose, glycated hemoglobin, insulin levels, body mass index, waist circumference, biomarkers of oxidative stress, the stability and progression of atherosclerotic plaques, and inflammation. Therefore, it is possible to conclude that the use of GB can provide benefits in the prevention and treatment of aging-related conditions.
Heterogeneous Models Integration for Safety Critical Mechatronic Systems and Related Digital Twin Definition: Application to a Collaborative Workplace for Aircraft Assembly
Authors: Mhenni Faïda , Vitolo Ferdinando , Rega Andrea , Plateaux Régis , Hehenberger Peter , Patalano Stanislao , Choley Jean-Yves
Published: March 2022

Nowadays, several manufacturing systems are evolving towards a greater collaboration between human and robots. The development of such systems requires integrated design tasks involving many disciplines and domains such as systems engineering, safety analyses and multi-physics. Furthermore, the increasing presence of multiple and structured requirements makes the use of models inevitable during the designing phases and also strongly helpful during other phases of the system life-cycle. Besides, for a better efficiency, there is an increasing demand to have a Digital Twin of the system to be used for different purposes such as design improvements by playing different scenarios, virtual commissioning and controlling maintenance activities. In this paper, we first summarize the research context, the reference methodologies, and the emerging needs for Digital Twin creation. Then, we apply a design approach including Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE), Model-Based Safety Assessment (MBSA) and multi-physics modeling for the design of a collaborative workplace for the assembly of Electro-Mechanical Actuators on an aircraft wing. An operational flow to integrate MBSE, MBSA and multi-physics modelling activities is provided. Then, after having identified some relevant scientific barriers, we provide a meta-model for system models integration within a digital twin framework.
Sleep Quality and Training Intensity in Soccer Players: Exploring Weekly Variations and Relationships
Authors: Silva Ana Filipa , Oliveira Rafael , Akyildiz Zeki , Yıldız Mehmet , Ocak Yücel , Günay Mehmet , Sarmento Hugo , Marques Adilson , Badicu Georgian , Clemente Filipe Manuel
Published: March 2022

The aim of this study was twofold: it (i) analyzed the weekly variations of sleep quality and training intensity of youth soccer players and (ii) analyzed the relationships between sleep quality and training intensity. This study followed an observational design. Twenty men youth players (age: 18.81 ± 0.41 years) were monitored daily over two weeks for sleep quality and training intensity. Sleep quality was measured daily using the 15-item consensus sleep diary. The training intensity was measured daily using the CR-10 Borg’s scale as a measure of rate of perceived exertion (RPE); a heart rate (HR) sensor was used to measure minimum, average and peak; a global positioning system (GPS) was used for measuring the total distance covered and distances covered at different speed thresholds. Repeated measures ANOVA was used to analyze the weekly variations of sleep quality and training intensity. The Pearson correlation test was executed to analyze the relationships between sleep quality and training intensity. Repeated measures ANOVA revealed significant within-week variations in sleep duration (hours) (p = 0.043), quality of sleep (p = 0.035), RPE (p = 0.007), session-RPE (p = 0.011), HRminimum (p = 0.027), HRpeak (p = 0.005), total distance (p < 0.001), pace (p < 0.002), distance covered at 3.00–6.99 km/h (p < 0.001), distance covered at 7.00–10.99 km/h (p < 0.001), distance covered at 11.00–14.99 km/h (p < 0.001), distance covered at 15.00–18.99 km/h (p < 0.001) and distance covered at >19.00 km/h (p < 0.001). Significant small correlations were found between sleep duration before training and session-RPE (r = 0.252), total distance (r = 0.205), distance covered at 3.00–6.99 km/h (r = 0.209) and distance covered at 7.00–10.99 km/h (r = 0.265). Significant small correlations were found between session-RPE and sleep duration after (r = 0.233), total distance and quality of sleep after (r = 0.198), distance at 3.00–6.99 km/h and quality of sleep after training (r = 0.220), distance covered at >19.00 km/h and quality of sleep after training (r = 0.286), session duration and rested feeling after training (r = 0.227), total distance and rested feeling after training (r = 0.202), distance covered at 11.00–14.99 km/h and rested feeling after training (r = 0.222) and distance covered at >19.00 km/h and rested feeling after training (r = 0.214). In conclusion, sleep duration was longer in the training sessions during the middle of the week; the training intensity was also greater (485.8 ± 56.8 A.U.). Moreover, sleep outcomes after training were slightly correlated with both physiological and locomotor demands.
Predicting Player Churn of a Free-to-Play Mobile Video Game Using Supervised Machine Learning
Authors: Mustač Kuzma , Bačić Krešimir , Skorin-Kapov Lea , Sužnjević Mirko
Published: March 2022

Free-to-play mobile games monetize players through different business models, with higher player engagement leading to revenue increases. Consequently, the foremost goal of game designers and developers is to keep their audience engaged with the game for as long as possible. Studying and modeling player churn is, therefore, of the highest importance for game providers in this genre. This paper presents machine learning-based models for predicting player churn in a free-to-play mobile game. The dataset on which the research is based is collected in cooperation with a European game developer and comprises over four years of player records of a game belonging to the multiple-choice storytelling genre. Our initial analysis shows that user churn is a very significant problem, with a large portion of the players engaging with the game only briefly, thus presenting a potentially huge revenue loss. Presented models for churn prediction are trained based on varying learning periods (1–7 days) to encompass both very short-term players and longer-term players. Further, the predicted churn periods vary from 1–7 days. Obtained results show accuracies varying from 66% to 95%, depending on the considered periods.
The Changsha Historic Urban Area: A Study on the Changing Accessibility of the Road Network
Authors: Fan Jinyu , Zheng Bohong , Tang Qianlong , Zhang Boyang , Liu Ning
Published: March 2022

In this study, we used a complex network analysis to examine the accessibility features of changing road networks in historic urban areas. We aimed to discover the pattern of evolution after studying the accessibility of the road network in the Changsha historic urban area over four periods of time. The results were as follows: the layout of the urban road network shows repetitive cluster–parent–subsidiary development, which provides evidence of adaptive adjustment in urban road development; vulnerability has been kept low in the changing urban road network, while the spatial framework of the Changsha historic center is fixed; the evolving urban road network generally shows a deteriorating level of stability, which is largely affected by the shape of the network; the degree centrality (1877, 1.87%; 1917, 1.32%; 1987, 1.85%; 2021, 1.51%) of the urban road network shows a decreasing trend, meaning that the network is generally becoming more balanced in its evolution; and the accessibility of land plots currently used to preserve cultural relics and historic sites remains at a medium to low level, and improvements are needed for some plots. In analyzing the changing accessibility of urban roads in the historic center of Changsha city, two major problems for road renewal were identified: (1) unbalanced development of the urban space due to capital-based projects and (2) providing an appropriate increase in plot accessibility while putting equal emphasis on the protection of the spatial framework in the historic urban area. We conclude that a dynamic review of urban road network accessibility and its targeted optimization are of great significance for the protection and development of Changsha’s historic urban area.
The Effect of Electrolytes and Urea on the Ethyl Lauroyl Arginate and Cellulose Nanocrystals Foam Stability
Authors: Czakaj Agnieszka , Krzan Marcel , Warszyński Piotr
Published: March 2022

Carboxylated cellulose nanocrystals (cCNC) are highly dispersible particles useful in many industries. In particular, they can be applied to form Pickering emulsions and foams for “green” applications in the cosmetics, pharmaceutical industry or food processing. We demonstrated that carboxylated cellulose nanocrystals enhance foamability and foam stability when mixed with cationic surfactant ethyl lauroyl arginate (LAE), having superior properties over sulfated cellulose nanocrystals (sCNC) concerning surfactant concentration range and foam volume. Mixtures of LAE and cCNC were characterized for their hydrodynamic diameter, zeta potential, surface tension and surface rheological properties. The influence of electrolytes, namely, sodium chloride, guanidine hydrochloride and sodium salicylate, and the addition of concentrated urea to LAE-cCNC mixtures on foamability and foam stability were investigated. Electrolytes in the concentration of 5 mM showed a moderate effect on foam stability. In contrast, spectacular foam collapse was detected after adding concentrated urea. The preliminary rheological data from the pendant drop oscillations revealed low elastic modulus upon urea addition and the loss modulus that increased with the frequency, which suggested a viscous interfacial layer.
Study of the Intra-Coronal Pressure Generated by Internal Bleaching Agents and Its Influence on Temporary Restoration
Authors: Pallarés-Serrano Alba , Pallarés-Serrano Antonio , Pallarés-Serrano Sandra , Pallarés-Sabater Antonio
Published: March 2022

Intra-coronal bleaching is a treatment that whitens non-vital teeth from within the pulp chamber, a procedure by which oxygen and free radicals are released. This in vitro study analyzed and compares the oxygen expansion produced when different bleaching agents encounter dental tissues during this type of bleaching. Here, 120 lower incisors were included and prepared to achieve conditions as close as practicable to internal bleaching with the walking bleach technique. The access cavity of the lingual surface was prepared to seal glass tubes with oil inside them by adhesive restoration once the bleach was placed inside the pulp chamber. The following bleaching groups were used: hydrogen peroxide (HP) 30% (n = 30), sodium Perborate (SP) with distilled water (n = 30), a mixture of HP 30% with SP (n = 30) and a control group (n = 30). After 10 days, the oil displacement that took place through the tube due to oxygen release was measured daily. Displacement of the oil was observed in all groups except the control group. The final mean expansion at 10 days was 335.24 ± 76.85 mm for the HP 30% group, 8.40 ± 1.74 mm for the SP group and 183.07 ± 49.93 mm for the HP30% + SP mixture. Significant statistical differences were observed between the three groups using the Games–Howell post hoc test, where HP30% caused the greatest expansion and SP the least expansion. These results suggest that the higher the amount of HP in the sample, the more oxygen expansion is observed, so that temporary restoration must be performed more carefully to avoid displacement.
Domiciliary Use of Chlorhexidine vs. Postbiotic Gels in Patients with Peri-Implant Mucositis: A Split-Mouth Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Butera Andrea , Pascadopoli Maurizio , Pellegrini Matteo , Gallo Simone , Zampetti Paolo , Cuggia Giada , Scribante Andrea
Published: March 2022

Peri-implant mucositis is a pathological condition characterized by an inflammatory process in the peri-implant soft tissues. Progression to peri-implantitis takes place in case of peri-implant bone resorption. Recently, an aid for non-surgical treatment by mechanical debridement (SRP) has been identified in probiotics. As there are no recent studies regarding their use for peri-implant mucositis, the aim of this study was to test a new postbiotic gel for this clinical condition. A split-mouth randomized clinical trial was performed. Twenty patients undergoing SRP were randomly assigned to two treatments based on the following oral gels: chlorhexidine-based Curasept Periodontal Gel (Group 1) and postbiotic-based Biorepair Parodontgel Intensive (Group 2). At baseline (T0) and after three (T1) and six (T2) months, the following peri-implant mucositis indexes were recorded: Probing Pocket Depth (PPD), Plaque Index (PI), Gingival Bleeding Index (GBI), Bleeding Score (BS), Marginal Mucosal Condition (MMC). A significant decrease is reported for both postbiotic and chlorhexidine for all peri-implant mucositis indices studied. Quite the opposite, no significant variation was present in intergroup comparisons. Greater improvements for BS, GBI and MMC inflammatory indices of the postbiotic gel compared to chlorhexidine suggest the importance of further studies to investigate the relevance of the product alone.
Plants: From Farm to Food and Biomedical Applications
Authors: Peron Gregorio , Hošek Jan
Published: March 2022

Historically, mankind has used plants and their derivatives as food and medicine for thousands of years [...]
Brake Light Detection Algorithm for Predictive Braking
Authors: Pirhonen Jesse , Ojala Risto , Kivekäs Klaus , Vepsäläinen Jari , Tammi Kari
Published: March 2022

There has recently been a rapid increase in the number of partially automated systems in passenger vehicles. This has necessitated a greater focus on the effect the systems have on the comfort and trust of passengers. One significant issue is the delayed detection of stationary or harshly braking vehicles. This paper proposes a novel brake light detection algorithm in order to improve ride comfort. The system uses a camera and YOLOv3 object detector to detect the bounding boxes of the vehicles ahead of the ego vehicle. The bounding boxes are preprocessed with L*a*b colorspace thresholding. Thereafter, the bounding boxes are resized to a 30 × 30 pixel resolution and fed into a random forest algorithm. The novel detection system was evaluated using a dataset collected in the Helsinki metropolitan area in varying conditions. Carried out experiments revealed that the new algorithm reaches a high accuracy of 81.8%. For comparison, using the random forest algorithm alone produced an accuracy of 73.4%, thus proving the value of the preprocessing stage. Furthermore, a range test was conducted. It was found that with a suitable camera, the algorithm can reliably detect lit brake lights even up to a distance of 150 m.