bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dose-Dependent Responses: A Preliminary Investigation into the Olfactory Effects of Essential Oil Concentrations on Canine Behavior
Authors: Haverbeke Anouck , Uccheddu Stefania , Reinert Clemens , Tertemiz Selene , Arnouts Heidi , Sannen Adinda
Published: March 2024

The positive impact of essential oils (EOs) on stress has been demonstrated in both humans and dogs. Among the EOs known for their anxiety-reducing properties, including Cananga odorata, Citrus aurantium, Cupressus sempervirens, Lavandula angustifolia, and Litsea citrata, there is a lack of consensus on the optimal concentration for efficacy. This exploratory study sought to investigate the effects of olfactory enrichment with a blend of these EOs on the activity levels of dogs introduced to an unfamiliar environment. The authors aimed to ascertain the minimum concentration necessary for stress reduction.
In a randomized controlled crossover study design, 54 dogs were exposed to 0, 1, 5, and 10 drops of the EO blend applied to their collars before entering an unfamiliar room with their owners. Behavioral observations were employed to quantify the total duration of stress-related behaviors for each dog under each treatment condition. A significant difference in panting was identified among the treatments (χ2(3) = 9.88; p = 0.020). Dunn-Bonferroni post-hoc tests revealed a significant reduction in panting during the 10 drops treatment compared to the control treatment (p = 0.047). No significant differences were observed for other stress-related behaviors.
To provide a comprehensive overview of behavioral tendencies in this canine population, owners also completed the Canine Behavioral Assessment and Research Questionnaire (C-BARQ), revealing low scores for anxiety in the study group.
The findings suggest that a concentration of 10 drops of the EO blend on a dog's collar induces stress reduction, specifically reflected in decreased panting behavior. Lower concentrations did not exhibit a significant relationship with observed stress behaviors.
This study underscores the importance of exposing dogs to an appropriate concentration of EOs when exploring their potential benefits on welfare among dogs with low anxiety levels. Further research in this area is crucial for a comprehensive understanding of the potential benefits of EOs for canine well-being.
Home Oxygen Therapy for Thai Preterm Infants with Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia. What Are the Predictive Factors for Successful Weaning: A 20-year Review
Authors: Grajangdara Vipada , Limrungsikul Anchalee , Coates Allan L. , Kamalaporn Harutai
Published: March 2024

Background
Consequences of lung injury and inflammation in preterm infants with bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) contribute to prolonged oxygen requirements. Home oxygen therapy (HOT) is an alternative way of respiratory support in BPD infants. However, there is no consensus on weaning guidelines either under the supervision of physicians or unsupervised weaning by parents. Our objective is to identify the median age of home oxygen discontinuation and the factors that might predict the duration of HOT in a resource poor country.
Methods
All preterm (≤ 36 weeks' gestation) infants diagnosed BPD who required HOT after discharged from Ramathibodi Hospital during January 2000 – December 2019 comprised this retrospective study. Timing of HOT withdrawal was identified. Demographic data, severity of BPD, history of respiratory support, procedures, prenatal history, comorbidities, and complications were recorded and analyzed as factors associated of home oxygen withdrawal.
Results
Of 8581 preterm infants born during the 20-year period, 563 (6.6%) had BPD. Among 40 infants treated with HOT, 18 (45%) were successfully weaned oxygen within 12 months. The median corrected age (CA) of oxygen withdrawal was 13.8 months (8.5, 22.1). Longer duration of total respiratory support, longer length of hospital stay, and poor weight gain were associated with longer duration of HOT. Greater weight gain was associated with a shorter duration of HOT at 12 months CA (adjusted OR, 1.97; 95% CI, 1.13–3.23; p = 0.015).
Conclusions
The median corrected age of oxygen withdrawal in Thai BPD infants was 13.8 months. Severe BPD and poor weight gain were associated with prolonged home oxygen use. Despite not being able to follow all the guidelines due to economic constraints, the clinical outcomes were comparable to the resource rich countries.
Melatonin Levels and Embryo Quality in IVF Patients with Diminished Ovarian Reserve: A Comparative Study
Authors: Wang Yingying , Liu Shangjie , Gan Feifei , Xiong Dan , Zheng Zhou , Zhang Xiuming
Published: March 2024

Background
Melatonin, a hormone found in various bodily fluids and cells, is known for its potent antioxidative, anti-apoptotic, and endocrine regulatory properties. This study aimed to analyze melatonin levels in patients with diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) and its impact on embryo quality.
Methods
we enrolled 85 women who were undergoing in vitro fertilization or intracytoplasmic sperm injection procedures, including normal ovarian reserve (NOR, n = 27), pathological DOR (DOR-Path, n = 25), and physiological DOR (DOR-Phy, n = 33). Melatonin levels in patient serum and follicular fluid were assessed using ELISA, and correlations between melatonin levels and indicators of embryo quality were examined.
Results
Our findings indicate that melatonin levels in the follicular fluid and basal serum of the DOR-Path and DOR-Phy groups were lower compared to the NOR group (P < 0.05). However, no significant differences in melatonin levels were found between the DOR-Path and DOR-Phy groups (P > 0.05). Additionally, the concentration of melatonin in the follicular fluid of the NOR group was significantly higher than in their serum (P < 0.001). Lastly, a significant correlation was discovered between melatonin levels in serum and follicular fluid and parameters of ovarian reserve and embryonic development (P < 0.05).
Conclusions
Melatonin levels in DOR patients may impact embryo quality, offering insights into potential DOR pathogenesis and opportunities to enhance treatment outcomes in these patients.
The Stringency of Climate Legislation and Policy in the European Union and the 21OECD Countries, 1990-2020.
Authors: Jahn Detlef
Published: March 2024

Legislation and policies to mitigate climate change are an important part of the toolkit available to highly industrialized democracies to address climate change. However, our knowledge of the stock of legislation is far from perfect. There are some studies that count the number of laws and policies. But when it comes to a deeper analysis of the content of the measures, our knowledge is very limited. In this paper, I offer a way to measure important aspects of policy stringency (or, as it is often called, ambition, importance, relevance, significance, intensity) of legislative initiatives for macro-comparative studies using publicly available data. The paper examines three well-established datasets from the International Energy Agency, the Grantham Institute, and EcoLex/FaoLex for their representativeness and suitability for such an analysis. In particular, it uses the European Union's 2020 and 2030 climate and energy frameworks and the national and subnational legislation of 21 OECD countries. It shows that the EcoLex/FaoLex dataset is best suited to capture qualitative aspects of legislation. The paper develops indices for the relevance, scope and importance of legislation and policy measures, which are cumulated into an index of saliency and filly in a measure of the (gross) potential impact (GPI) of legislation at the national level.
A study investigating the effects of a personalized Ceiling suspension shield-sensor system on minimizing radiation exposure in cath lab interventional procedures
Authors: Nair Sajeesh S , Gupta Saral Kumar , S Shine N , T Thomas K , Nair Sarath S , George Vijo , K Gopakumar M , Rajan Raji
Published: March 2024

Aim: To develop and evaluate a sensor system that can alert cardiologists when the ceiling suspension shield (CSS) is not positioned correctly during cath lab procedures.
Methodology: This study was carried out in our cath lab room which was equipped with the MAVIG ® OT90001 CSS model. A Ray Safe ® X2 detector was used to measure the dose rate with and without CSS to study the efficacy of CSS. A CSS sensor system was designed using basic electronic components and ultrasonic sensor module. The impact of the CSS sensor system in the cath lab was analysed by comparing the cardiologist's dose and the total dose during an angioplasty procedure.
Result: The CSS sensor system successfully detected any misalignment of CSS within a 50cm range. Analysis showed an 82.38% reduction in cardiologist’s radiation exposure while using this new system
Conclusion: The implementation of a radiation safety sensor system in the cath lab is a novel step toward ensuring the well-being of healthcare professionals and enhances the overall radiation safety standards in the cath lab.
Can white matter hyperintensities based Fazekas visual assessment scales inform about Alzheimer’s disease pathology in the population?
Authors: Pradeep Aishwarya , Raghavan Sheelakumari , Przybelski Scott A. , Preboske Gregory , Schwarz Christopher G. , Lowe Val J. , Knopman David S. , Petersen Ronald C. , Jack Clifford R. , Graff-Radford Jonathan , Cogswell Petrice M. , Vemuri Prashanthi
Published: March 2024

Background
White matter hyperintensities (WMH) are considered hallmark features of cerebral small vessel disease and have recently been linked to Alzheimer’s disease pathology. Their distinct spatial distributions, namely periventricular versus deep WMH, may differ by underlying age-related and pathobiological processes contributing to cognitive decline. We aimed to identify the spatial patterns of WMH using the 4-scale Fazekas visual assessment and explore their differential association with age, vascular health, Alzheimer’s imaging markers, namely amyloid and tau burden, and cognition. Because our study consisted of scans from GE and Siemens scanners with different resolutions, we also investigated inter-scanner reproducibility and combinability of WMH measurements on imaging.
Methods
We identified 1144 participants from the Mayo Clinic Study of Aging consisting of older adults from Olmsted County, Minnesota with available structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), amyloid, and tau positron emission tomography (PET). WMH distribution patterns were assessed on FLAIR-MRI, both 2D axial and 3D, using Fazekas ratings of periventricular and deep WMH severity. We compared the association of periventricular and deep WMH scales with vascular risk factors, amyloid-PET and tau-PET standardized uptake value ratio, WMH volume, and cognition using Pearson partial correlation after adjusting for age. We also evaluated vendor compatibility and reproducibility of the Fazekas scales using intraclass correlations (ICC).
Results
Periventricular and deep WMH measurements showed similar correlations with age, cardiometabolic conditions score (vascular risk), and cognition, (p < 0.001). Both periventricular WMH and deep WMH showed weak associations with amyloidosis (R = 0.07, p = < 0.001), and none with tau burden. We found substantial agreement between data from the two scanners for Fazekas measurements (ICC = 0.78). The automated WMH volume had high discriminating power for identifying participants with Fazekas ≥ 2 (area under curve = 0.97).
Conclusion
Our study investigates risk factors underlying WMH spatial patterns and their impact on global cognition, with no discernible differences between periventricular and deep WMH. We observed minimal impact of amyloidosis on WMH severity. These findings, coupled with enhanced inter-scanner reproducibility of WMH data, suggest the combinability of inter-scanner data assessed by harmonized protocols in the context of vascular contributions to cognitive impairment and dementia biomarker research.
Dual Action Potential: Bromophenol in Combatting COVID-19 and Modulating ACE2-Mediated Circulatory Hemostasis: A Molecular Modeling Study
Authors: CİNİSLİ Kağan Tolga , SHADIDIZAJI Azizeh , ÇINAR Burak , REZAİ Mohsen , MEMARKASHANI Sahar , HACIMÜFTUOĞLU Ahmet , WARDA Mohamad
Published: March 2024

The possible recurrent threat of the COVID-19pandemic driven by SARS-CoV-2 underscores the critical need for innovative pharmaceutical interventions targeting Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptors. Beyond the recognized role of ACE2in viral entry, its intricate involvement in circulatory hemostasis, with potential hypotension-related complications, necessitates a comprehensive approach. This in silico study investigates the therapeutic potential of Bromophenol (BP) derived from Halophitys incurves (HIE) against both ACE2-mediated viral entry and circulatory complications, particularly hypotension.
Utilizing advanced in silico techniques; we assessed the pharmacokinetic parameters of BP through SWISSADME, ADME/T, and Swisstargetprediction. The Molecular Dynamics Simulation analysis further substantiated the favorable interactions within the BP-ACE2 complex. The results elucidated a favorable performance of BP in comparison to β-D-Mannose, serving as a potent inhibitor in impeding ACE2-mediated viral entry and contributing to the regulation of circulatory hemostasis. This inquiry emphasizes BP's potential as a robust inhibitor against the multifaceted actions of ACE2, offering valuable insights into its therapeutic effectiveness against COVID-19. Additionally, it contributes to a deeper understanding of ACE2-mediated circulatory hemostasis by revealing BP's regulatory role in this physiological process. The encouraging findings warrant further exploration of BP as a novel therapeutic agent targeting ACE2 -induced dual unfavorable actions.
Unique features of conventional and nonconventional nuclear pre-mRNA introns in Euglena gracilis
Authors: Gao Pingwei , Zhao Yali , Xu Guangjie , Zhong Yujie , Sun Chengfu
Published: March 2024

Background
Nuclear precursor messenger RNA introns in Euglenida have been understudied. This study aims to address this question by identifying a large number of introns in Euglena gracilis (E. gracilis), including cis-spliced conventional and nonconventional introns, as well as trans-spliced outrons. We also examine the sequence characteristics of these introns.
Results
A total of 28,337 introns and 11,921 outrons were identified. Conventional and nonconventional introns have distinct splice site features with the former harbor the canonical GT/C-AG splice sites, whereas the latter are capable of forming structured motifs with their terminal sequences. We notice that short introns are observed to prefer the canonical GT-AG introns. Notably, conventional introns and outrons in E. gracilis exhibit a distinct cytidine-rich polypyrimidine tract, in contrast to a thymidine-rich one observed in other organisms. Furthermore, the SL-RNAs in E. gracilis, as well as in other trans-splicing species, can form, with the respective U6s, a recently discovered motif called the extended U6/5' ss duplex. We also describe a novel type of alternative splicing pattern in E. gracilis. Tandem repeat sequences of introns in this protist are also determined and their content is comparable to that in human.
Conclusions
Our findings highlight the unique features of E. gracilis introns and provide insights into the splicing mechanism of these introns, as well as the genomics and evolution of Euglenida.
Disturbance regimes favor alternative plant communities in the natural grasslands of the Pampa Austral (Argentina)
Authors: de Villalobos Ana Elena , Charles-Dominique Tristan
Published: March 2024

The Austral Pampa hosts extensive and diverse grasslands, which, over the last century, have been exposed to climate change and unprecedented disturbance regimes, including domestic herbivory and a novel fire regime. Predicting community responses to these changing conditions and designing appropriate conservation plans requires dissociating the individual contribution of each factor to community filtering. We ask whether fire, herbivory, temperature and drought, favor distinct communities in Pampean grassy ecosystems and which plant traits. Field surveys were conducted in three areas of the Ventania Mountain System in Pampa Austral (Argentina) exposed to varied fire, herbivory, and drought regimes. A total of 140 plant species were examined across 8 sampling areas, selected as representing different disturbance regimes. We measured 17 functional traits related to plant height, reproduction, and leaf area. The relationships between these traits and environmental variables were analyzed using RLQ and fourth-corner methods. RLQ analysis revealed that temperature, rainfall, and herbivory influenced plant communities, while fire frequency had less impact. We identified five distinct plant functional groups (PFGs) that differed in perenniality, type of pollination, resprouting capacity, spinescence, leaf hairiness and leaf area. Separating the effects of herbivory, fire, and drought reveals that multiple stresses could influence communities, resulting in higher resprouting and shorter life cycles. Analyzing how functional traits respond to environmental factors and disturbances provides insights into the conservation challenges posed by these changing disturbance dynamics in the Pampa biome.
Preparation of nanocrystalline stacked spherical SnO2 with higher specific surface area and its gas-sensing performance
Authors: ZHENG Xian-Jun , Liu Songtao , Wang Junbo , Si Fang , Hou Haiyun , Jiang Fengyang , Sun Zhongming , Liu Jianjiang , Fang Chenyu
Published: March 2024

In order to improve the sensitivity of SnO2 to ethanol gas, the spherical SnO2 with a particle size of 0.25μm and uniform particle distribution was prepared by hydrothermal method without adding surfactants. The characterizations were conducted，and the results showed that the spherical SnO2 particles were stacked by fine grains with a grain size of 4nm, with a higher specific surface area of 232.2043m2/g than existing research results. The gas-sensing performance test results show that the spherical SnO2 has the best gas-sensing selectivity to ethanol, with an optimal working temperature of 300℃. When the ethanol concentration is 100ppm, the gas sensitivity of spherical SnO2 to ethanol is 48.28, with a response time of 4s and a recovery time of 15s. Even to low concentration ethanol of 2ppm, the sensitivity of the spherical SnO2 can reach 4.6, indicating excellent gas-sensing performance of the spherical SnO2. This study provides data reference for the research and development of high-performance gas sensors.
Low Current Non-Thermal Plasma Assisted Hydrocarbon Reforming Hydrogen Rich Gas
Authors: P Rajkumar , B Prem Anand
Published: March 2024

Current trends in the automotive industry include the use of hydrogen, GDI engines, and PEM fuel cell systems. low-current non-thermal plasma-assisted hydrocarbon reforming hydrogen-rich gas ways to produce it on board automobiles. In this study, we introduce the plasma fuel reformer (PFR), a non-thermal device that uses the partial oxidation process as its primary mechanism. Plasma is created by PFR using air at higher pressures than the atmosphere. Plasma is generated by an electrode gap discharge and continuous air and fuel infusions. Exothermicity from partial oxidation generates the most heat. The unique Plasma Fuel Reformer (PFR) has three sections in a stack: fuel injection, plasma production fuel reaction, and heat exchanger. The low-current non-thermal plasma is designed to convert gasoline into hydrogen-rich gas under non-thermal circumstances. The first section briefly describes hydrocarbon reforming chemistry. The second section is low-current non-thermal plasma fuel reformer (PFR) technology and design. This novel plasma reformer is still in its early stages of development, but there are a number of technical tweaks that might significantly enhance its chemical efficiency.
Biomechanical Analysis for Ameliorated Escape-resistant Intervertebral Fusion Devices
Authors: Tang Shaolong , Pan Dan , Chen Siyuan , Li Hengyuan , Ye Zhaoming
Published: March 2024

Background
This study aims to compare the sinking and shifting of an enhanced escape-proof intervertebral fusion device with a traditional TLIF intervertebral fusion device.
Methods
Five specimens each of the improved escape-resistant intervertebral cage and the traditional TLIF cage were selected. Four types of mechanical tests were conducted on each cage, Furthermore, a blade-cutting torque test was performed on the escape-resistant cage, with the recording of load-displacement curves and mechanical values.
Results
In static axial compression performance testing and static subsidence testing and dynamic subsidence testing, the improved escape-resistant cage were similar to those of the traditional TLIF ccage. In static escape performance testing, the maximum escape force when the blade rotated out for the improved escape-resistant cage (534.02 ± 21.24N) was higher than the maximum escape force when the blade did not rotate out (476.97 ± 24.45N) (P = 6.81E-04). The maximum escape force when the blade rotated out for the improved escape-resistant cage (534.02 ± 21.24N) was significantly higher than that of the traditional TLIF cage (444.01 ± 12.42N) (P = 9.82E-05).
Conclusions
The improved escape-resistant cage product effectively enhances the device's escape prevention and anti-subsidence performance, it demonstrates biomechanical advantages.
The effects of two biofertilizers on the physiology of replanted Zanthoxylum bungeanum and soil phenolic acids
Authors: Zhang Shuheng , Chen Wei , Wang Bin , Ding Dedong , He Jing
Published: March 2024

To solve the issues of low survival rate and poor vigor of Zanthoxylum bungeanum seedlings caused by long-term continuous cropping, a study was conducted using bio-organic fertilizer and microbial bacterial fertilizer as repair agents. The aim was to investigate their effects on the physiological metabolism of Zanthoxylum bungeanum seedlings and soil phenolic acids, with a focus on understanding the growth-promoting mechanism of replanted Zanthoxylum bungeanum. The results revealed that fertilization significantly increased the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), catalase (CAT), nitrate reductase (NR), as well as the levels of soluble sugar (SS) and soluble protein (SP) in Zanthoxylum bungeanum seedlings. Conversely, the content of malondialdehyde (MDA) and four soil phenolic acids (gallic acid (FA), ferulic acid (GA), caffeic acid (CA), and p-hydroxybenzoic acid (PHBA) were significantly reduced. The mixed application of microbial fertilizer and bio-organic fertilizer showed better growth-promoting effects compared to single application. Specifically, when the volume ratio of microbial fertilizer and bio-organic fertilizer was 2:1, the activity of defense enzymes was most significantly promoted. Under this treatment, the activities of SOD, CAT, POD, and NR in seedlings were 1.8, 3, 3.8, and 5.3 times higher than the control (no fertilization treatment), respectively. The levels of SS and SP were 2.4 and 2.5 times higher than the control, respectively. The MDA content was 27% of the control, and the total content of the four phenolic acids was 60% of the control. Principal component analysis results showed that the scores of fertilization treatments were higher than the control, with the order being T6 > T7 > T2 > T5 > T4 > T3 > T1 > T0. Therefore, the combined application of microbial fertilizer and bio-organic fertilizer effectively promotes the physiological metabolism of seedlings, reduces the content of soil phenolic acids, and has a positive effect on alleviating the obstacles to continuous cropping of Zanthoxylum bungeanum.
Training transfer validity of virtual reality simulator assessment
Authors: Hjellvik Simen , Mallam Steven
Published: March 2024

This study utilises computer-based simulations to explore the transfer effects of competency training in maritime education, addressing the current lack of research on their transferability to real-world scenarios. The research explores the accuracy of procedural knowledge assessment using virtual reality, positing that head-mounted display (HMD) VR offers stronger concurrent validity through training transfer measures than 3D desktop VR. This is evaluated by regression on a training transfer condition. It also investigates motivation's influence on training transfer and the model of this relationship. Fifteen marine engineering students were divided into two experimental groups using 3D desktop VR and HMD VR systems, with eight experts in the control group. The students had previously received traditional lecture-based instruction and were given practical training using a 2D desktop simulator in the same scenario as in the VR treatment and in the training transfer condition. The ANCOVA design experiment involved two levels of technical immersion before the operation of real-life equipment. Neither technical immersion nor expertise level as independent variables were found to have a significant effect in the relationship of the assessment predicting the training transfer. The direct relationship was significant (R 2 adj =.436) and further analysed with the influence of motivation, resulting in a moderation model with a decent effect size (R 2 =.740). We can infer on these findings that both types of VR simulation used for assessment demonstrate concurrent validity in predicting real-life performance, however, we found no support for one over the other.
Analysis and Knowledge Extraction of Newborn Resuscitation Activities from Annotation Files
Authors: Abukmeil Mohanad , Meinich-Bache Øyvind , Eftestøl Trygve , Rettedal Siren , Myklebust Helge , Tysland Thomas Bailey , Ersdal Hege , Md Estomih , Engan Kjersti
Published: March 2024

Deprivation of oxygen in a newbornduring and after birth leads to birth asphyxia, which is considered one of the leading causes of death in the neonatal period. Adequate resuscitation activities are performed immediately after birth to save the majority of newborns. The primary resuscitation activities include ventilation, stimulation, drying, suction, and chest compression. While resuscitation guidelines exist, little research has been conducted on measured resuscitation episodes. Modeling the executed resuscitation activities to generate temporal data and extract knowledge can provide unique insights into dominant resuscitation activities. It also aids in constructing a resuscitation timeline to visually represent and describe the actions performed on a newborn.In this paper, we propose a method for generating and encoding temporal resuscitation data, enabling the description and visualization of the resuscitation timeline. We utilize neighborhood component analysis (NCA) to cluster the generated data based on the presence of ventilation and the outcome of the newborn. Additionally, we employ an autoencoder (AE) model to enhance clustering performance by visualizing its latent space.Our proposed method demonstrates high-quality visual clustering results on two different datasets. It provides insights into the intricate structure of the generated resuscitation data by grouping similar unlabeled resuscitation episodes into coherent clusters.
Assessing long-term landscape dynamics based on automated production of land category layers from Danish late 19th century topographic maps
Authors: Levin Gregor , Groom Geoff , Svenningsen Stig Roar
Published: March 2024

Context
Assessing long-term land use and land cover (LULC) change is critical for understanding of landscapes dynamics. Historical topographic maps contain valuable, spatially explicit information about past LULC. Yet, for analyses of landscape dynamics, it is necessary to "unlock" this information through recognition and extraction via map processing.
Objectives
Our main goal was to test automated extraction of machine-readable LULC categories from historical topographic maps. Furthermore, we explore landscape dynamics and discuss potential biases associated with category changes between historical and contemporary LULC data.
Methods
For two study areas in northern and central Jutland, Denmark we apply object-based image analysis (OBIA), vector GIS, colour segmentation and machine learning processes to produce machine readable LULC layers from topographic maps from the late 19th century. By comparison with contemporary maps, we investigate landscape dynamics over 140 years.
Results
An accuracy assessment applied to the extracted LULC categories indicated an overall obtained accuracy beyond 90 %. A comparison with a contemporary map revealed landscape dynamics, which are characterised by a decrease in heath, wetland and dune sand due to cultivation and afforestation. Dune sand was also characterised by a change to heath and dry grassland.
Conclusions
We conclude that automated production of machine-readable LULC categories from historical maps offers a less time consuming and more resource efficient alternative to manual vectorisation. Our results also underline that an understanding of mapped LULC categories in both historical and contemporary maps is critical to the interpretation of landscape dynamics.
Lasting Legacy: The enduring relationship between racially restrictive housing covenants and health and wellbeing
Authors: West Kristine Lamm , Allen Elizabeth , LaPlante Ava , Durben Anchee Nitschke , Palma Victoria Delgado
Published: March 2024

Racially restrictive covenants in housing deeds, commonplace for houses built from the 1910s to the 1950s, provided a foundation for the myriad of policies that made it difficult for people of color to obtain housing. Though covenants were ruled illegal in 1968, their legacy continues to shape neighborhoods. The Mapping Prejudice Project (MPP)’s efforts in Hennepin County, Minnesota produced the first systematic documentation of racially restrictive covenants. We use this novel data set to explore the relationship between historic covenants and current health and wellbeing outcomes. Using regression analysis to control for neighborhood level covariates, we compare previously covenanted neighborhoods to neighborhoods without covenants. We find that racially restrictive covenants have a lasting impact. Today covenanted neighborhoods have higher life expectancy and lower rates of obesity, diabetes, coronary heart disease and asthma than neighborhoods without racially restrictive covenants. Additionally, covenanted neighborhoods have less upward mobility for children from poorer households and there are larger gaps in upward mobility between white and black children. These findings contribute to a growing literature that shows racist policies, even decades after they are legally enforceable, have enduring impacts. Using the novel data from the MPP we provide statistical analysis that confirms qualitative and anecdotal evidence on the role of racial covenants in shaping neighborhoods.
High-Fidelity Simulations of Contaminant Dispersion in an Urban Environment with Comparison to Magnetic Resonance Imaging Measurements
Authors: Owkes Mark , Homan Ty , Benson Michael , Banko Andrew
Published: March 2024

The dispersion of a contaminant in an urban environment has the potential to impact a large population of people. In this work, a complex urban canopy flow based on the Oklahoma City downtown business district circa 2003 is studied using Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and high-fidelity Large Eddy Simulations (LES). MRI is a novel experimental technique that can provide high-resolution measurements in four dimensions (three spatial and temporal) for lab scale models. The experiments and simulations use the same geometry and boundary conditions providing a one-to-one comparison of the two methods. Results are presented on the time-averaged velocity and concentration fields, the temporal dynamics of the concentration plumes for a transient release, and a novel Cloud Identification Algorithm (CIA) that can separate plumes produced by periodic contaminant releases used for ensemble averaging over many releases. The MRI and LES datasets agree very well and identify complex flow features within the urban environment.
Immunohistochemical analysis and distribution of epithelial mast cells in the rat larynx and trachea
Authors: Abdali Sayed Sharif , Yokoyama Takuya , Yamamoto Yoshio , Narita Keishi , Hirakawa Masato , Saino Tomoyuki
Published: March 2024

Mast cells (MCs) in rat airways have been classified into two subtypes: epithelial MCs and connective tissue MCs (CTMCs). However, the immunohistochemical characteristics, cellular morphology, and distribution of epithelial MCs in the upper airways remain unclear. The present study investigated the morphological characteristics and distribution of epithelial MCs using 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) and other immunohistochemical markers in sectioned or whole-mount preparations of the rat larynx and trachea. A double immunofluorescence analysis revealed the co-localization of 5-HT immunoreactivity with c-kit, a stem cell factor receptor commonly used as a MC marker, in both epithelial MCs and CTMCs. Dopa decarboxylase, an enzyme involved in 5-HT synthesis, was detected in both subtypes, suggesting their ability to synthesize and release 5-HT. Tryptase and histidine decarboxylase (a biosynthetic enzyme of histamine), which are well-known mediators of MCs, were exclusive to CTMCs. Epithelial MCs were pleomorphic with long cytoplasmic processes, whereas CTMCs were round and lacked cytoplasmic processes. The density of epithelial MCs was significantly higher in the glottis and cranial part of the trachea than in the epiglottis and other parts of the trachea. The present results showed that the morphology and immunohistochemical characteristics of epithelial MCs were different from those of CTMCs in the rat larynx and trachea, and variform epithelial MCs were predominantly located at the entrance of the upper airways. Epithelial MCs may release 5-HT in the vicinity of epithelial cells that regulate innate immune responses by modulating epithelial cell functions at the entrance gate of the upper airways.
ZRRD-MBNet：Zero-Reference RETINEX Decomposition-Based Multi-Branch Network for Low-Light Image Enhancement
Authors: Liu Xianzhi , Tong Zhengrong , Wang Hao , Li Peng
Published: March 2024

To address the challenges of low visibility, poor contrast, and significant noise in images captured under various extreme conditions, such as backlighting and low-light situations, we propose a novel zero-reference Retinex decomposition-based multi-branch network known as ZRRD-MBNet for enhancing low-light images. The ZRRD-MBNet is divided into two main components: decomposition and recovery. The decomposition part can separate the input low-light image into three distinct components: the illuminance map, the reflection map, and the noise map. On the other hand, the recovery part follows a dual-path approach. The first path involves gamma transforming the generated illuminance map to enhance brightness effectively. Simultaneously, the second path divides the input low-light image element-wise by the originally decomposed illuminance map. The result is then subtracted element-wise from the noise map obtained during decomposition, yielding a denoised reflection map. To obtain the final enhanced image, the denoised reflectance map is multiplied with the brightness-enhanced illuminance map. The specific loss functions are critical for updating the weight parameters of ZRRD-MBNet and guiding the network during low-light image decomposition. Extensive qualitative and quantitative experiments are conducted using publicly available datasets. The results demonstrate that our method produces high-quality images with clarity, minimal noise, and absence of artifacts.
Characterisation of a novel “glyco-organochlorine” bioflocculant produced from Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain F29 isolated from pig fecal matter collected from a mixed animal farm in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
Authors: Okorie I. K. M. , Ogunjobi A. A.
Published: March 2024

Antibiotic resistance has reached global proportions, and the discovery of effective alternatives to the common antibiotics currently in use, could aid in solving this problem. The aim of this study was to characterise a bioflocculant produced from Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain F29, accession number OQ734844, with 69% flocculating activity and which had been observed to possess biocontrol activity against Staphylococcus aureus SO183 at concentrations of 0.090 g/L and 0.150 g/L and against identified Pseudomonas aeruginosa at a concentration of 0.150 g/L. Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain F29, was isolated from pig fecal matter collected from a mixed animal farm in Ibadan, Nigeria via the pour plate method, identified through biochemical tests and confirmed through molecular studies. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy of the bioflocculant revealed the presence of carboxyl, aromatic alcohol, alkene, halo and polysulfide functional groups. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed a clumped and flaky bioflocculant surface while energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) revealed the main chemical elements were chlorine (56.00%), carbon (20.50%), sodium (12.50%), oxygen (4.00%), and phosphorus (3.00%). High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and mass spectrometry (MS) revealed that the bioflocculant consisted of carbohydrate sugar moieties of glucose, galactose, inositol and mannose, D-ribose, arabinose, rhamnose and xylose; each with varied peaks. The phenolic sulfuric acid method showed that the concentration of these sugars was 0.0059 g/L. The bioflocculant was a polymeric compound composed mainly of carbohydrates and organochlorines, possibly known as a “glyco-organochlorine.” From available documentation, this is the first report of a “glyco-organochlorine” bioflocculant.
Generative Adversarial Network Model to Classify Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Cardiomyocytes based on Maturation Level
Authors: Wu Ziqian , Park Jiyoon , Steiner Paul R. , Zhu Bo , Zhang John X.J.
Published: March 2024

Objective: Our study develops a generative adversarial network (GAN)-based method that generates faithful synthetic image data of human cardiomyocytes at varying stages in their maturation process, as a tool to significantly enhance the classification accuracy of cells and ultimately assist the throughput of computational analysis of cellular structure and functions.
Methods: Human induced pluripotent stem cell derived cardiomyocytes (hiPSC-CMs) were cultured on micropatterned collagen coated hydrogels of varied stiffness on which structural and optical measurements were performed to analyze their structural and functional maturation. Control groups were cultured on collagen coated glass well plates. These image recordings were used as the real data to train the GAN model.
Results: The GAN approach was able to replicate true features from the real data, and inclusion of such synthetic data significantly improved the classification accuracy compared to he exclusive usage of only real experimental data limited in scale and diversity.
Conclusion: The proposed model outperformed four conventional machine learning algorithms by incorporating synthetic data to improve both data generalization and classification.
Significance: This work demonstrates the potential utility of integrating synthetic data to effectively address the challenges imposed by constrained data.
Analysis of Gait Dynamics using Motion and EMG Sensors
Authors: Senthilvel Arvind , B Sankaragomathi , M Manju , M Vijayalakshmi , K Sujeeth
Published: March 2024

Gait analysis is crucial for understanding the biomechanical complexities of osteoarthritis and Total Hip Arthroplasty (THA). Traditional methods lack the comprehensive data needed for effective analysis. Integrating Internet of Things (IoT) technologies offers a promising solution to enhance gait analysis by utilizing multiple sensors to capture various aspects of movement dynamics. This study aims to innovate gait analysis for individuals with osteoarthritis by employing IoT technologies. The primary objective is to integrate data from 9-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) sensors, Force-Sensitive Resistor (FSR) sensors, and Electromyography (EMG) sensors to provide a detailed analysis of gait dynamics. By doing so, the study seeks to uncover intricate connections between kinematics, ground response forces, and muscle exertion during walking. The study utilizes IMU sensors to capture three-dimensional movement, FSR sensors to measure ground response forces, and EMG sensors to record muscle activation patterns. Advanced algorithms are employed to accompany and integrate the data from these sensors. Actors undergo gait analysis under various conditions, including normal walking and different perturbations, to simulate real-world scenarios. The integration of data from multiple sensors and the application of advanced algorithms reveals detailed insights into the biomechanical differences associated with osteoarthritis and THA. The analysis demonstrates the effectiveness of IoT-based gait analysis in providing valuable perceptivity into musculoskeletal conditions. The proposed methodology showcases the potential of IoT-based gait analysis in advancing our understanding of musculoskeletal conditions and enhancing patient care. By uncovering intricate connections between kinematics, ground response forces, and muscle exertion, this approach provides a foundation for further development of effective interventions and rehabilitative strategies.
Study of development prospects of blood service enterprises depending on the type of donation
Authors: Khomenko Liliia , Liubchak Vladyslav
Published: March 2024

The blood service is a strategically important branch of the state. The basis of safe blood supply is the popularization of regular (repeated) voluntary free blood donors, because they support the lowest risk of infection. In Ukraine, between 2012 and 2020, the number of donors decreased almost halved, during a war blood needs increased by 30–60%, and blood shortages increased even more. The purpose of the article is to determine and study the prospects for the development of blood service enterprises depending on the type of donation. In countries with a high level of collected blood, the share of regular donors is more than 80%, and paid and family donations are mostly absent. In Ukraine, on average, the share of repeat (regular) donors increased from 7% to 15% during 2012–2020 and remains very low comparing with almost European countries. It was established that there are close inverse relationships between the share of regular donors and the share of erythrocyte mass write-offs (-0.98), between the share of regular donors and the share of donor deferrals (-0.96), and between the share of regular donors and the share of shortages of preserved donor blood (–0.70). There is also a close direct relationship between the share of donor deferrals and the share of erythrocyte mass write-offs (0.94), as well as an average direct relationship between the share of donor deferrals and the share of shortages of preserved donor blood. In the Sumy region, the number of donors increased by 2.5 times, the share of regular donors tripled and reached 74% in 2020, and the number of donations per 1,000 population increased by 6.5 times and reached 61.7. In the Kharkiv region, the number of donors and the number of donations remained at approximately the same level, but the share of regular donors increased by 1.7 times and reached 33.3%. In both regions, during 2012–2020, the share of erythrocyte mass write-offs and shortages of preserved donor blood decreased to the level of less than 1%. The share of donor deferrals also tends to decrease. All this indicates an increase in blood safety. It is estimated that increasing the share of regular donors to 80% at the national level can lead to savings in the amount of UAH 86 million 76.4 thousand during the year. The authors justified the need to develop strategies for converting primary donors into permanent ones.
Climate change and hydropower resilience in Nepal: an integrated modeling approach in the Madi River Basin
Authors: Pokharel Pragya , Regmi Ram Krishna
Published: March 2024

Responding to Nepal's hydropower sector's vulnerability to climate change, this study investigates its impact on energy security, focusing on the Madi River Basin's river systems. This study conducted a rigorous analysis of the basin's historical and future hydroclimatic trends, using the linear scaling method to correct inherent biases in 13 GCMs, resulting in the selection of 6 BCMs with above-satisfactory performance. Future projections reveal an increase in annual precipitation with a higher increment in SSP585 by the end of the century, and a temperature rise ranging from 1.8 to 3.5 °C from the baseline in the far future under moderate- to high-emission scenarios. These hydroclimatic projections are then forced into the calibrated soil and water assessment tool (SWAT) model with very good performance (both R2 and NSE greater than 0.8). The streamflow projection demonstrates an overall increasing trend, marked by significant flow reduction in early months and pronounced monsoon peaks. The analysis of three distinct hydropower projects reveals unique challenges and opportunities, underscoring the heterogeneous nature of projects and the need for location-specific planning and strategic management. This study provides crucial insights for sustainable development in renewable energy, laying the foundation for future research and policy in similar hydroclimatic settings.
Twenty-four-month Progression-free Survival in HER2-amplified Advanced Gastric Cancer with Brain Metastases after Trastuzumab Deruxtecan Treatment: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Zhang Haibo , Xu Min
Published: March 2024

Background:

Trastuzumab deruxtecan (T-DXd) has shown promising outcomes as a second
or subsequent-line treatment for human epidermal growth factor-2 (HER2)-positive advanced
gastric or gastroesophageal junction cancer.

Case Presentation:

We reported a 49-year-old male patient with stage IV HER2-amplified gastric
cancer. Despite extensive pretreatments, including first-line trastuzumab plus FOLFOX, second--
line trastuzumab plus FOLFOX, followed by traditional Chinese medicine, third-line nivolumab
plus trastuzumab, fourth-line pyrotinib plus paclitaxel and five hepatic arterial chemoembolization
procedures, and fifth-line pembrolizumab plus nab-paclitaxel and thoracic radiotherapy, the patient
experienced disease progression. In April 2021, T-DXd was initiated as the sixth-line therapy
in combination with radiotherapy for brain metastases. After one treatment cycle, the patient
achieved a partial response. T-DXd was discontinued in August 2022 due to recurrent anemia attributed
to cardiac stenosis-related bleeding.

Conclusion:

The condition of the patient remained stable until May 2023, indicating a progression-
free survival of over 24 months. This case suggests that T-DXd may offer long-term clinical
benefits in patients with HER2-amplified advanced gastric cancer with brain metastases.