bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy of progressive versus severe energy restriction on body composition and strength in concurrent trained women
Authors: Vargas-Molina Salvador , Bonilla Diego A. , Petro Jorge L. , Carbone Leandro , García-Sillero Manuel , Jurado-Castro José Manuel , Schoenfeld Brad J. , Benítez-Porres Javier
Published: February 2023

Purpose

This study evaluated the concurrent training (CT) effect in combination with either progressive energy restriction (PER) or severe energy restriction (SER) on body composition and strength-related variables in resistance-trained women.

Methods

Fourteen women (29.5 ± 3.8 years; 23.8 ± 2.8 kg·m−2) were randomly assigned to a PER (n = 7) or SER (n = 7) group. Participants performed an 8-week CT program. Pre- and post-intervention measures of fat mass (FM) and fat-free mass (FFM) were assessed by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and strength-related variables were assessed through 1-repetition maximum (in the squat and bench press) and countermovement jump.

Results

Significant reductions in FM were observed in PER and SER (Δ = − 1.7 ± 0.4 kg; P =  < 0.001; ES = − 0.39 and Δ = − 1.2 ± 0.6 kg; P = 0.002; ES = − 0.20, respectively). After correcting FFM for fat-free adipose tissue (FFAT), no significant differences for this variable were found either in PER (Δ = − 0.3 ± 0.1; P = 0.071; ES = − 0.06) or in SER (Δ = − 0.2 ± 0.1; P = 0.578; ES = − 0.04). There were no significant changes in the strength-related variables. No between-group differences were found in any of the variables.

Conclusion

A PER has similar effects to a SER on body composition and strength in resistance-trained women performing a CT program. Given that PER is more flexible and thus may enhance dietary adherence, it might be a better alternative for FM reduction compared to SER.
On Formality and Combinatorial Formality for Hyperplane Arrangements
Authors: Möller Tilman , Mücksch Paul , Röhrle Gerhard
Published: February 2023

A hyperplane arrangement is called formal provided all linear dependencies among the defining forms of the hyperplanes are generated by ones corresponding to intersections of codimension two. The significance of this notion stems from the fact that complex arrangements with aspherical complements are formal. The aim of this note is twofold. While work of Yuzvinsky shows that formality is not combinatorial, in our first main theorem we prove that the combinatorial property of factoredness of arrangements does entail formality. Our second main theorem shows that formality is hereditary, i.e., is passed to restrictions. This is rather counter-intuitive, as in contrast the known sufficient conditions for formality, i.e., asphericity, freeness and factoredness (owed to our first theorem), are not hereditary themselves. We also demonstrate that the stronger property ofk-formality, due to Brandt and Terao, is not hereditary.
Sleep quality and sex-related factors in adult patients with immune-mediated diabetes: a large cross-sectional study
Authors: Bongiorno Claudio , Moscatiello Simona , Baldari Michele , Saudelli Enrico , Zucchini Stefano , Maltoni Giulio , Ribichini Danilo , Bruco Alessia , Lo Preiato Valentina , Laffi Gilberto , Pagotto Uberto , Di Dalmazi Guido
Published: February 2023

Aim

To analyze sleep quality and its relationships with clinical and biochemical features in a large cohort of adults with autoimmune diabetes.

Methods

We administered to 553 patients with autoimmune diabetes the questionnaires: Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), diabetes distress scale, diabetes-related quality of life and diabetes treatment satisfaction questionnaire. We excluded patients with missing HbA1c ± 4 months from PSQI administration or incorrect PSQI compilation (n = 110).

Results

Altered sleep quality was recorded in 142/443 subjects (32%), insufficient total sleep time in 177/443 (40%). The altered sleep quality group had higher HbA1c (median 56 mmol/mol [interquartile range-IQR 49–62] vs 59 [IQR 52–68]; P < 0.001), higher average HbA1c in the previous 36 months (59 mmol/mol [IQR 54–68] vs 56 [IQR 51–62]; P < 0.001), and more individuals with HbA1c > 53 mmol/mol (74.6% vs 62.8%; P = 0.014). Diabetes duration (P = 0.63), type of insulin delivery (P = 0.48) and glucose monitoring (P = 0.35) were uninfluential. Patients with altered sleep quality showed higher prevalence of autoimmune (42 vs 28%; P = 0.005) and mental diseases (12 vs 4%; P = 0.002); there were greater emotional distress, and lower quality of life and treatment satisfaction (P < 0.001 for all), irrespective of sex. Men with altered sleep quality had higher HbA1c and prevalence of autoimmune diseases. Women showed greater prevalence of psychiatric disorders. Average HbA1c of the previous 36 months, autoimmune or psychiatric disorders were independent predictive factors for altered sleep quality.

Conclusion

One-third of the patients with autoimmune diabetes showed altered sleep quality, which associates with worse glycemic control, and autoimmune and mental disorders, with sex-specific differences.
Growth rates of human induced pluripotent stem cells and neural stem cells from attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder patients: a preliminary study
Authors: Yde Ohki Cristine Marie , Walter Natalie Monet , Bender Audrey , Rickli Michelle , Ruhstaller Sina , Walitza Susanne , Grünblatt Edna
Published: February 2023

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental polygenic disorder that affects more than 5% of children and adolescents around the world. Genetic and environmental factors play important roles in ADHD etiology, which leads to a wide range of clinical outcomes and biological phenotypes across the population. Brain maturation delays of a 4-year lag are commonly found in patients, when compared to controls of the same age. Possible differences in cellular growth rates might reflect the clinical observations in ADHD patients. However, the cellular mechanisms are still not elucidated. To test this hypothesis, we analysed the proliferation of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and neural stem cells (NSCs) derived from male children and adolescents diagnosed with ADHD and with genetic predisposition to it (assessed using polygenic risk scores), as well as their respective matched controls. In the current pilot study, it was noticeable that NSCs from the ADHD group proliferate less than controls, while no differences were seen at the iPSC developmental stage. Our results from two distinct proliferation methods indicate that the functional and structural delays found in patients might be associated with these in vitro phenotypic differences, but start at a distinct neurodevelopmental stage. These findings are the first ones in the field of disease modelling of ADHD and might be crucial to better understand the pathophysiology of this disorder.
Relationship of obstructive sleep apnea with periodontal condition and its local and systemic risk factors
Authors: Arango Jimenez Natalia , Morales Vera Darena Z. , Latorre Uriza Catalina , Velosa-Porras Juliana , Téllez Corral Mayra A. , Escobar Arregocés Francina Maria
Published: February 2023

Objective

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and periodontitis share risk factors, such as age, obesity, stress, and cardiovascular events, which have a bidirectional cause-effect relationship through systemic inflammation. Our objective was to determine the relationship between OSA and the periodontal condition and its associated local and systemic risk factors.

Material and methods

This was an observational case-control study involving 60 patients. Local oral risk factors and the systemic condition of each patient were evaluated. All patients underwent polysomnography for the diagnosis of OSA. Chi-squared, one-way ANOVA, and Bonferroni’s tests were performed.

Results

A higher percentage of patients with periodontitis had severe OSA (66.66%); however, no statistically significant association was found between the two pathologies (p= 0.290). In terms of systemic risk factors, an association was found between arterial hypertension and severe OSA (p= 0.038), and in terms of local factors, an association was found between the use of removable prostheses and severe OSA (p= 0.0273).

Conclusion

In the general population, patients with periodontitis showed a higher prevalence of severe OSA. Obesity and hypothyroidism were the most prevalent systemic findings in patients with OSA and periodontitis. Arterial hypertension and osteoarthritis were found to be associated with severe OSA. The local risk factors associated with periodontitis and severe OSA were removable partial dentures and misfit resins.

Clinical relevance

To study the factors that can facilitate the progression of OSA and periodontitis, physicians and dentists should be advised to provide comprehensive care for patients with both pathologies.
Tools and algorithms for the construction and analysis of systems: a special issue on tool papers for TACAS 2021
Authors: Jensen Peter Gjøl , Neele Thomas
Published: February 2023

This special issue contains six revised and extended versions of tool papers that appeared in the proceedings of TACAS 2021, the 27th International Conference on Tools and Algorithms for the Construction and Analysis of Systems. The issue is dedicated to the realization of algorithms in tools and the studies of the application of these tools for analysing hard- and software systems.
Parking lock integration for electric axle drives by multi-objective design optimization
Authors: Lechleitner D. , Hofstetter M. , Hirz M. , Gsenger C. , Huber K.
Published: February 2023

Due to safety considerations, electric axle drives (e-drives) are often equipped with a parking lock system, which prevents vehicle movement while parking in redundancy with the parking brake. In order to integrate the parking lock into the e‑drive, various mounting positions inside the e‑drive are eligible, which have a direct influence on the e‑drive packaging. Furthermore, engaging the parking lock may happen at small vehicle velocities and while driving downhill, leading to high loads on the e‑drive components. These loads depend on the mounting position of the parking lock and have to be considered in the design phase to prevent failure of the system. That way, the designs of shafts, gear wheels and bearings of the gearbox are affected by the parking lock integration. A suboptimally integrated parking lock system can thus lead to undesirably high costs and reduced energy efficiency of the entire e‑drive—all alongside the packaging aspect. Consequently, finding the best suitable parking lock integration for a certain e‑drive is a complex task for the design engineers. To reduce the level of problem complexity, an established computer-based system design method for e‑drives by means of a multi-objective optimization is extended to be capable of considering the parking lock integration. The proposed method is applied to a case study and the impact of the parking lock on the optimality of an exemplary e‑drive system is shown.
The deterrent effects of individual monoterpene odours on the dietary decisions of African elephants
Authors: Bester Twané , Schmitt Melissa H. , Shrader Adrian M.
Published: February 2023

African savanna elephants use pre-ingestive olfactory cues when making dietary choices, and previous research has observed that elephant diet choice is negatively correlated with vegetation species that contain high concentrations of monoterpenes. However, the frequency and concentration of monoterpenes can vary dramatically across plant species. Thus, we aimed to explore the effects that the odours of individual monoterpenes have on elephant diet choice and how these effects vary with concentration. To do this, we conducted three odour-based choice experiments focusing on eight common monoterpenes found in the woody plants in Southern African savannas. In the first experiment, we tested whether elephant diet choice for a frequently consumed plant (Euclea crispa) was influenced by the addition of the odour of an individual monoterpene at a set concentration. In the second experiment, we explored the relative deterrence of each monoterpene. Lastly, we tested how elephant diet choice varied as a function of the addition of individual monoterpene odours at 5%, 10%, and 20% concentrations. We found that the elephants avoided most individual monoterpenes at high concentrations, with the exception being α-pinene. Furthermore, we found that the odours of some individual monoterpenes were, in fact, more deterrent than others. In the third experiment, we found that the elephants avoided β-pinene, limonene, ocimene, γ-terpinene, and terpinolene across all concentrations, but only avoided sabinene and linalool at high concentrations. Ultimately, our results show that the odour of individual monoterpenes may deter elephant consumption, but that this deterrent effect depends on both the monoterpene and its concentration.
The fundamental equations of a pseudo-Finsler submersion
Authors: Huber Matthieu , Javaloyes Miguel Angel
Published: February 2023

The main result in this paper is the generalisation of the fundamental equations of a Riemannian submersion presented in the 1966 article by O’Neill (Michigan Math J 13:459–469, 1966) to the context of pseudo-Finsler submersions. In the meantime, we also explore some basic properties of the O’Neill fundamental tensors of the submersion and study Finsler submersions with totally geodesic fibers.
Assessment of Galileo High Accuracy Service (HAS) test signals and preliminary positioning performance
Authors: Naciri Nacer , Yi Ding , Bisnath Sunil , de Blas F. Javier , Capua Roberto
Published: February 2023

The Galileo High Accuracy Service (HAS) is a GNSS augmentation that provides precise satellite corrections to users worldwide for free directly through Galileo’s E6 signal. The HAS service provides free PPP corrections from the Galileo constellation and the Internet, with targeted real-time 95% positioning performance of better than 20 cm horizontal and 40 cm vertical error after 5 min of convergence time globally and shorter in Europe. The HAS initial service, under validation at the time of writing, provides these capabilities with a reduced performance (based on the current Galileo stations network). Live HAS test signals broadcasted from the Galileo satellites during summer 2022 have been decoded and analyzed. Corrections include Galileo and GPS orbit, clock, and code bias corrections, with SISRE of 10.6 cm and 11.8 cm for Galileo and GPS, respectively. Code bias corrections showed good performance as well, with rms of 0.28 ns, 0.26 ns, and 0.22 ns for Galileo C1C–C5Q, C1C–C7Q, and C1C–C6C, respectively, and 0.20 ns for GPS C1C–C2L. Float PPP positioning performance results show that the combined Galileo and GPS solution can already achieve the HAS full service accuracy performance target and is close in terms of convergence time, with 95% rms of 13.1 cm and 18.6 cm horizontally and vertically, respectively, in kinematic mode, and with a 95% convergence time of 7.5 min. The latter is expected to be improved with the inclusion of satellite phase bias and local atmospheric corrections. With these early Galileo HAS test signals, this preliminary analysis indicates that the HAS full service targets are attainable. Finally, a correction latency analysis is performed, showing that even with latency of up to 60 s, positioning can remain within the targeted HAS accuracy performance.
Friends in high places: Interspecific grooming between chimpanzees and primate prey species in Budongo Forest
Authors: Freymann Elodie , Huffman Michael A. , Muhumuza Geresomu , Gideon Monday Mbotella , Zuberbühler Klaus , Hobaiter Catherine
Published: February 2023

While cases of interspecies grooming have been reported in primates, no comprehensive cross-site review has been published about this behavior in great apes. Only a few recorded observations of interspecies grooming events between chimpanzees and other primate species have been reported in the wild, all of which have thus far been in Uganda. Here, we review all interspecies grooming events recorded for the Sonso community chimpanzees in Budongo Forest Reserve, Uganda, adding five new observations to the single, previously reported event from this community. A new case of interspecies play involving three juvenile male chimpanzees and a red-tailed monkey is also detailed. All events took place between 1993 and 2021. In all of the six interspecific grooming events from Budongo, the ‘groomer’ was a female chimpanzee between the ages of 4–6 years, and the ‘recipient’ was a member of the genusCercopithecus. In five of these events, chimpanzee groomers played with the tail of their interspecific grooming partners, and except for one case, initiated the interaction. In three cases, chimpanzee groomers smelled their fingers after touching distinct parts of the receiver’s body. While a single function of chimpanzee interspecies grooming remains difficult to determine from these results, our review outlines and assesses some hypotheses for the general function of this behavior, as well as some of the costs and benefits for both the chimpanzee groomers and their sympatric interspecific receivers. As allogrooming is a universal behavior in chimpanzees, investigating the ultimate and proximate drivers of chimpanzee interspecies grooming may reveal further functions of allogrooming in our closest living relatives, and help us to better understand how chimpanzees distinguish between affiliative and agonistic species and contexts.
Design of a low-voltage dielectrophoresis lab-on-the chip to separate tumor and blood cells
Authors: Valijam Shayan , Salehi Alireza , Andersson Magnus
Published: February 2023

In this paper, we design and propose a compact label-free microfluidic lab-on-a-chip device to separate circulating tumor cells (CTCs) from red blood cells (RBCs) at low voltage to minimize cell damage. With the aim of developing a mm-long device to perform cell separation, we used 3D finite element simulation modeling and investigated separation efficiency for different electrode configurations, electrode shapes, and channel heights. Our results show that configuring the electrodes as two arrays, consisting of only five pairs of top and bottom planar electrodes shifted relative to each other and energized with ± 6 V at 70 kHz, generates sufficient non-uniform electric fields to separate CTCs and RBCs in a 2 mm long channel. The advantage of the proposed design is the simplicity of the electrode arrangement and that the electrodes do not cover the central part of the channel, thus allowing for brightfield imaging of the channel. In addition, the low voltage needed and the 50 µm high channel reduce the Joule heating effect and improve the device's separation and throughput efficiency. We suggest that the proposed design would be effective for separating CTCs and RBCs and, thus, used as a device for the early detection of CTCs.
A graphical analysis of aspects contributing to the spreading of measurements of left ventricular function
Authors: Knackstedt Christian , Schummers Georg , Schröder Jörg , Marx Nikolaus , Lumens Joost , Wijk Sandra Sanders-van , Ramaekers Bram , Becker Michael , van Empel Vanessa , Brunner-La Rocca Hans-Peter ,   the PsychEcho study group
Published: February 2023

The Simpson’s method is the standard technique to determine left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (EF) on echocardiography. The large inter-observer variability of measuring LVEF is well documented but not fully understood. A graphical analysis was used to elaborate what contributes to the inter-observer difference. Forty-two cardiologists (32 male, 39 ± 7 years) evaluated the LVEF using the Simpson’s method on 15 different echocardiograms (2 and 4 chamber view (2CH/4CH)); the program did not show the result of EF to prevent a bias. End-diastolic (ED) and end-systolic (ES) frames were predefined ensuring measurement at the same time point of the cardiac cycles. After standardization of the LV contour, the differences of the individual contours compared to a reference contour were measured. Also, the spreading of lateral/medial mitral annulus contours and the apex were depicted. A significant spreading of LV-contours was seen with larger contours leading to higher EFs (p < 0.001). Experience did not influence the determination of LVEF. ED-volumes showed more spreading than ES-volumes ((3.6 mm (IQR: 2.6–4.0) vs. 3.4 mm (IQR: 2.8–3.8), p < 0.001). Also, the differences were larger for the 2CH compared to the 4CH (p < 0.001). Variability was significantly larger for lateral than septal wall (p < 0.001) as well as the anterior compared to the inferior wall (p < 0.001). There was a relevant scattering of the apex and medial/ lateral mitral annulus ring. There was a large variability of LV-volumes and LVEF as well as position of mitral valve ring and apex. There were global differences (apical 2CH or 4CH), regional aspects (LV walls) and temporal factors (ED vs. ES). Thus, multiple factors contributed to the large variability.

Trial registration: The study was registered at “Netherlands Trial Register” (www.trialregister.nl; study number: NL5131).
Automated variable renaming: are we there yet?
Authors: Mastropaolo Antonio , Aghajani Emad , Pascarella Luca , Bavota Gabriele
Published: February 2023

Identifiers, such as method and variable names, form a large portion of source code. Therefore, low-quality identifiers can substantially hinder code comprehension. To support developers in using meaningful identifiers, several (semi-)automatic techniques have been proposed, mostly being data-driven (e.g., statistical language models, deep learning models) or relying on static code analysis. Still, limited empirical investigations have been performed on the effectiveness of such techniques for recommending developers with meaningful identifiers, possibly resulting in rename refactoring operations. We present a large-scale study investigating the potential of data-driven approaches to support automated variable renaming. We experiment with three state-of-the-art techniques: a statistical language model and two DL-based models. The three approaches have been trained and tested on three datasets we built with the goal of evaluating their ability to recommend meaningful variable identifiers. Our quantitative and qualitative analyses show the potential of such techniques that, under specific conditions, can provide valuable recommendations and are ready to be integrated in rename refactoring tools. Nonetheless, our results also highlight limitations of the experimented approaches that call for further research in this field.
Hermann von Helmholtz and the Quantification Problem of Psychophysics
Authors: Biagioli Francesca
Published: February 2023

Hermann von Helmholtz has been widely acknowledged as one of the forerunners of contemporary theories of measurement. However, his conception of measurement differs from later, representational conceptions in two main respects. Firstly, Helmholtz advocated an empiricist philosophy of arithmetic as grounded in some psychological facts concerning quantification. Secondly, his theory implies that mathematical structures are common to both subjective experiences and objective ones. My suggestion is that both of these differences depend on a classical approach to measurement, according to which the arithmetic laws of addition define what is measurable as a particular domain for their application, and, at the same time, the extensibility of these laws to all known physical processes works as a heuristic principle for empirical research. Such an approach is worth reconsidering, not only because it lends plausibility to some of the controversial aspects of Helmholtz’s theory, but also because it offers a philosophical perspective on quantification problems that originated in the nineteenth-century.

This paper draws insights on Helmholtz’s philosophical views from his engagement with the measurability of sensations via Fechner’s psychophysical law. This seems to be in contrast with the fact that the reception of Helmholtz’s theory culminated with the formulation of the theory of extensive measurement. I will contend that Helmholtz reached a no less important standpoint in the nineteenth-century debate on whether sensations are different (i.e., intensive) kinds of magnitudes and on how, if at all, they can be measured.
Long-term outcome of cardiac resynchronization therapy patients in the elderly
Authors: Behon Anett , Merkel Eperke Dóra , Schwertner Walter Richard , Kuthi Luca Katalin , Veres Boglárka , Masszi Richard , Kovács Attila , Lakatos Bálint Károly , Zima Endre , Gellér László , Kosztin Annamária , Merkely Béla
Published: February 2023

Heart failure (HF) is a leading cause of mortality and hospitalization in the elderly. However, data are scarce about their response to device treatment such as cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). We aimed to evaluate the age-related differences in the effectiveness of CRT, procedure-related complications, and long-term outcome. Between 2000 and 2020, 2656 patients undergoing CRT implantation were registered and analyzed retrospectively. Patients were divided into 3 groups according to their age: group I, < 65; group II, 65–75; and group III, > 75 years. The primary endpoint was the echocardiographic response defined as a relative increase > 15% in left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) within 6 months, and the secondary endpoint was the composite of all-cause mortality, heart transplantation, or left ventricular assist device implantation. Procedure-related complications were also assessed. After implantation, LVEF showed significant improvement both in the total cohort [28% (IQR 24/33) vs. 35% (IQR 28/40); p < 0.01)] and in each subgroup (27% vs. 34%; p < 0.01, 29% vs. 35%; p < 0.01, 30% vs. 35%; p < 0.01). Response rate was similar in the 3 groups (64% vs. 62% vs. 56%; p = 0.41). During the follow-up, 1574 (59%) patients died. Kaplan–Meier curves revealed a significantly lower survival rate in the older groups (log-rank p < 0.001). The cumulative complication rates were similar among the three age groups (27% vs. 28% vs. 24%; p = 0.15). Our results demonstrate that CRT is as effective and safe therapy in the elderly as for young ones. The present data suggest that patients with appropriate indications benefit from CRT in the long term, regardless of age.
Epicardial Dispersion of Repolarization Promotes the Onset of Reentry in Brugada Syndrome: A Numerical Simulation Study
Authors: Scacchi Simone , Colli Franzone Piero , Pavarino Luca F. , Gionti Vincenzo , Storti Cesare
Published: February 2023

The Brugada syndrome (BrS) is a cardiac arrhythmic disorder responsible for sudden cardiac death associated with the onset of ventricular arrhythmias, such as reentrant ventricular tachycardia and fibrillation. The mechanisms which lead to the onset of such electrical disorders in patients affected by BrS are not completely understood, yet. The aim of the present study is to investigate by means of numerical simulations the electrophysiological mechanisms at the basis of the morphology of electrocardiogram (ECG) and the onset of reentry associated with BrS. To this end, we consider the Bidomain equations coupled with the ten Tusscher–Panfilov membrane model, on an idealized wedge of human right ventricular tissue. The results have shown that: (1) epicardial dispersion of repolarization, generated by the coexistence of regions of early and late repolarization, due to different modulation of the $$I_\mathrm{{CaL}}$$

I
CaL

current, produces ECG waveforms exhibiting qualitatively the typical BrS morphology, characterized by ST elevation and partially negative T-waves; (2) epicardial dispersion of repolarization promotes the onset of reentry during the implementation of the programmed stimulation protocol, because of the conduction block occurring when a premature beat reaches the border of late repolarizing regions; and (3) the modulation of the $$I_\mathrm{{to}}$$

I
to

current affects the duration of reentry, which becomes sustained with a remarkable increase of $$I_\mathrm{{to}}$$

I
to

in the subepicardial layers.
Design, Manufacturing, and Numerical Characterization of Hybrid Fiber Reinforced Polymer under Dynamic Loads
Authors: Bruno M. , Esposito L. , Papa I. , Viscusi A.
Published: February 2023

In the present work, the response of composite hybrid laminates made of carbon and glass fibers in different stacking configurations was tested under low-velocity impact loads. Experimental drop impact tests were conducted on three different stacking sequences and three rising impact energy levels. The results from the tests were assumed for the development and validation of a numerical impact model reproducing for each stacking sequence and all the impact energy levels, the laminates impact response. The validated model investigated the occurred damage mechanisms, their distribution in the panel thickness and their extension on the plane of the laminate. Depending on the stacking sequence and the impact energy level, the energy absorption capacity was related to the dominant damage mechanism. The percentage contribution of interlaminar and intralaminar damages was presented and conclusions were drawn about the influence of stacking sequences on energy absorption and damage characteristics.
Design, establishment, analysis, and quality control of a high-precision reference frame in Cortes de Pallás (Spain)
Authors: García-Asenjo Luis , Martínez Laura , Baselga Sergio , Garrigues Pascual , Luján Raquel
Published: February 2023

A high-precision geodetic reference frame was required in Cortes de Pallás (Spain) to undertake a long-term deformation monitoring project. Involving distances up to 2000 m, the aimed accuracy was 1 mm and 3 mm for horizontal and vertical components, respectively. Such a high precision is necessary to detect possible displacements of selected points on a critical rocky area in a short period of time, i.e., 2 or 3 years, and also to provide ground control for the integration of precise 3D models periodically obtained by remote sensing techniques. Considering the historical geotechnical problems of the area, the possible influence of the hydroelectric power plant, and the peculiar orography of the zone, a proper analysis of the stability is crucial if the reference frame is to be used for rigorous over-time deformation monitoring. This paper describes the deformation monitoring of a 10-pillar geodetic network which was measured from 2018 to 2020 by using a sub-millimetric Mekometer ME5000 (0.2 mm + 0.2 ppm) along with a demanding observing methodology which includes a network of data loggers for temperature, humidity, and air pressure as well as proper calibration of sensors and instruments to prevent potential inconsistencies between the scale of the network and the unit of length of the International System (SI meter). The results demonstrated that the chosen methodology yielded the aimed accuracy. However, using such a high precision methodology entails the problem that small displacements of only 1 or 2 mm are significantly detected as deformations by conventional deformation analysis and then it arises the problem of finding a subset of stable points for a rigorous datum realization when all the points seem to displace. This general problem is analyzed in the particular case of Cortes de Pallás, where a balanced mix of deformation analysis and technical decisions was eventually adopted to define a precise and stable reference frame for rigorous over-time deformation monitoring.
Kommunale bewegungsbezogene Gesundheitsförderung in Deutschland
Authors: Dippon Lea , Helsper Natalie , Kohler Simone , Weber Philipp , Rütten Alfred , Pfeifer Klaus , Birkholz Leonie , Semrau Jana
Published: February 2023

Ansätze der kommunalen bewegungsbezogenen Gesundheitsförderung (kbG) werden empfohlen, um körperlicher Inaktivität in der Bevölkerung entgegenzuwirken. Der vorliegende Artikel hat zum einen das Ziel, eine systematische Übersicht zur kbG in Deutschland darzustellen. Zum anderen sollen in diesem Bereich Good-Practice-Projekte identifiziert werden, die als Orientierungsrahmen für die Umsetzung und Verbreitung von kbG genutzt werden können. Im ersten Schritt wurden Projekte über eine Suche in 4 wissenschaftlichen Datenbanken sowie 21 Projektdatenbanken identifiziert und Daten zu „Bundesland“, „Berücksichtigung gesundheitlicher Chancengleichheit“ und „Umsetzung im städtischen oder ländlichen Raum“ extrahiert. Zudem wurden eingeschlossene Projekte in verschiedene Ansätze im Setting Kommune unterteilt. Im nächsten Schritt wurden Projekte mit einer dokumentierten Prozess- und/oder Ergebnisevaluation anhand von Qualitätskriterien in den Bereichen Konzipierung, Implementierung und Evaluation bewertet. Projekte, die mindestens 50 % der Qualitätskriterien erfüllten, wurden als Good-Pratice-Projekte ausgewählt. Insgesamt wurden 240 Projekte der kbG erfasst. Im ländlichen Raum wurden primär umweltbezogene Ansätze und im städtischen Raum vermehrt Mehrkomponentenansätze sowie Angebote und Veranstaltungen umgesetzt. 45 Projekte wiesen eine ausreichende Dokumentation der Prozess- und/oder Ergebnisevaluation auf, wovon 17 Projekte als Good-Practice identifiziert wurden. Optimierungspotenzial besteht bei der Adressierung von gesundheitlicher Chancengleichheit, einer aktiven Beteiligung von Menschen in schwierigen Lebenslagen über den gesamten Projektzyklus sowie der Implementierung von Mehrkomponentenansätzen. Dies erfordert Förderprogramme, die strukturbildende Good-Practice-Projekte ermöglichen und insbesondere deprivierte Kommunen erreichen. Ein von Akteur:innen aus Wissenschaft, Praxis und Politik gemeinsam verabschiedeter Standard zur Anwendung der Qualitätskriterien und einer damit einhergehenden Legitimation für die Bezeichnung als Good-Practice könnte einen Mehrwert für die strategische Weiterentwicklung der kbG in Deutschland bieten.
Examining the Impact of Intellectual Capital Performance on Financial Performance in Islamic Banks
Authors: Asutay Mehmet , Ubaidillah
Published: February 2023

This study explores the intellectual capital (IC) performance of Islamic banks (IBs) and examines the impact of intellectual capital on financial performance in terms of profitability and productivity in IBs. The IC features are also examined individually to identify the primary driver of IC performance and their individual impact on the IBs’ financial performance. A quantitative method using multi regression analysis is utilised to examine the nexus between IC and the IBs’ financial performance indicators. The measurement of IC uses Modified Value-Added Intellectual Coefficient (MVAIC™) which is an extended model of VAIC™. The data were drawn from 49 IBs from 2014 to 2018. The empirical findings indicate that IC is positively significant in impacting IBs’ financial performance measures, especially profitability, but inconclusively related to productivity. Furthermore, when the components were analysed separately, the nexus between these components and IBs’ financial performance indicators show lesser uniform results. Capital employed efficiency and human capital efficiency are found to be the most influential features of IC in this study, while structural capital efficiency does not show an impact on financial performance. Evidence also demonstrates that all IC components are not significantly related to IBs’ productivity indicator. The study offers an extended understanding of IC and its role in IBs and may provide guidance to different stakeholders including regulators and management of IBs to formulate and structure relevant strategies to create, utilize, and maintain IC for the more resilient banking sector, as extensive practical implications are provided for this purpose.
Cross-caps, triple points and a linking invariant for finitely determined germs
Authors: Pintér Gergő , Sándor András
Published: February 2023

It was recently proved that for finitely determined germs $$ \Phi : ( \mathbb C^2, 0) \rightarrow ( \mathbb C^3, 0) $$

Φ
:

(

C
2

,
0
)

→

(

C
3

,
0
)

the number $$C(\Phi )$$

C
(
Φ
)

of Whitney umbrella points and the number $$T(\Phi )$$

T
(
Φ
)

of triple values of a stable deformation are topological invariants. The proof uses the fact that the combination $$C(\Phi )-3T(\Phi )$$

C
(
Φ
)
-
3
T
(
Φ
)

is topological since it equals the linking invariant of the associated immersion $$S^3 \looparrowright S^5$$

S
3

↬

S
5

introduced by Ekholm and Szűcs. We provide a new, direct proof for this equality. We also clarify the relation between various definitions of the linking invariant.
New insight of metabolomics in ocular diseases in the context of 3P medicine
Authors: Zhang Quyan , Wang Nan , Rui Yuhua , Xia Yang , Xiong Siqi , Xia Xiaobo
Published: February 2023

Metabolomics refers to the high-through untargeted or targeted screening of metabolites in biofluids, cells, and tissues. Metabolome reflects the functional states of cells and organs of an individual, influenced by genes, RNA, proteins, and environment. Metabolomic analyses help to understand the interaction between metabolism and phenotype and reveal biomarkers for diseases. Advanced ocular diseases can lead to vision loss and blindness, reducing patients’ quality of life and aggravating socio-economic burden. Contextually, the transition from reactive medicine to the predictive, preventive, and personalized (PPPM / 3P) medicine is needed. Clinicians and researchers dedicate a lot of efforts to explore effective ways for disease prevention, biomarkers for disease prediction, and personalized treatments, by taking advantages of metabolomics. In this way, metabolomics has great clinical utility in the primary and secondary care. In this review, we summarized much progress achieved by applying metabolomics to ocular diseases and pointed out potential biomarkers and metabolic pathways involved to promote 3P medicine approach in healthcare.
Critical Analysis of the Use of Semiempirical Models on the Dehydration of Thin-Layer Foods Based on Two Study Cases
Authors: Vega-Castro O. , Osorio-Arias J. , Duarte-Correa Y. , Jaques A. , Ramírez C. , Núñez H. , Simpson R.
Published: February 2023

Moisture transport during food drying can be phenomenologically described by Fick’s second law and by the so-called anomalous diffusion model. However, in the literature, many studies have shown the extensive use of empirical/semiempirical models (EMs/SEMs) to adjust experimental data for the drying of thin-layer foods. This research aims to perform a critical analysis of the most commonly used EMs/SEMs and compare them with Fick’s second law and an anomalous diffusion model using two different sets of hot-air drying data. Two waste byproducts from the food industry, spent coffee grounds and passion fruit peels, were selected for analysis. The selected EMs/SEMs were found to be mathematically interrelated (i.e., some are a subset of others), and their appropriateness was incorrectly justified mainly by their statistical goodness-of-fit. As shown, it is highly recommended that researchers start analyzing drying data with phenomenological models. The extensive use of EMs and SEMs can be replaced by the anomalous diffusion model, which has a high capacity to adjust empirical data and a sound phenomenological description of the process.
Synergetic Effect of Fe2O3 Doped-CeO2 Nanocomposites Prepared via Different Techniques on Photocatalytic Desulfurization of Heavy Gas Oil
Authors: Radwan Manar S. , Aboutaleb Wael A. , El Naggar Ahmed M. A. , Medany Shymaa S. , Shehata Mohamed R.
Published: February 2023

The photocatalytic performances of three Fe2O3–CeO2 nanocomposites were investigated toward the sulfur removal from a petroleum heavy gas oil (HGO) sample. The three composites were prepared by three different routes namely; auto-combustion, post-precipitation and precipitation. The physio-chemical features and optical properties of the presented composites were determined via proper analytical techniques. Formation of Fe2O3–CeO2 solid solution in all the prepared composites was verified via XRD analysis. These composites were then employed in photo-desulfurization of HGO and their activities were investigated at several operating conditions. The highest photocatalytic desulfurization exploit (91.5%) could be detected for the composite which was prepared via auto-combustion technique, denoted as (Fe20Ce80)ac. This maximum percentage of sulfur removal could be obtained under visible light irradiation at the following optimum operating conditions: 15 g/L (as photocatalyst dose), time of 6 h and 2:1 of H2O2 to oil ratio. The subsequent implementation of a solvent extraction step using N-methyl pyrrolidone was needed to attain the deepest desulfurization of HGO. The efficiencies of the presented composites against the process of sulfur removal were discussed in spot of their textural and optical characteristics as well as the available oxygen vacancies through their lattices structures.
Radiatiecystitis en de behandeling ervan in het bijzonder met hyperbare zuurstof: een overzicht
Authors: Gerbrandy-Schreuders Lara Constance
Published: February 2023

Samenvatting

Radiatieschade van de blaas kan optreden na therapeutische bestraling van een orgaan in het bekkengebied, zoals blaas, prostaat of cervix. Deze behandeling kan acute (voorbijgaande) blaasproblemen geven, maar ook pas jaren later, met het ontwikkelen van chronische radiatiecystitis. Dit veroorzaakt hinderlijke symptomen, zoals frequente mictie, aandrangklachten, urine-incontinentie, chronische pijn en/of macroscopische hematurie. Dit laatste kan bij sommige patiënten tot meerdere spoedopnames in de kliniek leiden. Bij refractaire hemorragische cystitis kan een overzichtelijk stappenplan als leidraad gebruikt worden voor het bepalen van de optimale vervolgbehandeling. Met name bij milde tot matige macrohematurie kan hyperbare zuurstoftherapie (HBOT) overwogen worden. De mogelijkheden hiervoor zijn de laatste jaren toegenomen, HBOT is veilig en lijkt effectief.
Case report. Blokkade van de plexus hypogastricus superior en het ganglion impar bij urologische patiënten met pijn in de blaasregio
Authors: van den Brink Luna , Peeters Marthe C. M. , Glas Afina S. , van der Vegt Rien M. H. , Almaç Emre , van der Stroom Elizabeth M. C. , Schout Barbara M. A.
Published: February 2023

Samenvatting

Pijn in de blaasregio kan een grote impact hebben op de kwaliteit van leven van de patiënt. Wanneer patiënten geen baat hebben bij medicamenteuze of intravesicale behandelingen kan plexusblokkade door de pijnspecialist een oplossing zijn ter acute verlichting van de pijn. Dit case report bespreekt twee casus waarbij blokkade van de plexus hypogastricus superior of het ganglion impar uitkomst heeft geboden. Ondanks het gebrek aan bewijs pleiten het relatief weinig-invasieve karakter van de ingreep en het lage risico op complicaties ervan, vóór het toepassen van plexusblokkades ter verlichting van pijn in de blaasregio.
Impact of Oats on Appetite Hormones and Body Weight Management: A Review
Authors: Shehzad Amna , Rabail Roshina , Munir Seemal , Jan Hamza , Fernández-Lázaro Diego , Aadil Rana Muhammad
Published: February 2023

Purpose of Review

This study aims to review the hunger hormones in obesity management and the impact of oats in regulating these hormones for hunger suppression and body weight management. In this review, the impact of various edible forms of oats like whole, naked, sprouted, or supplemented has been investigated for their appetite hormones regulation and weight management.

Recent Findings

The onset of obesity has been greatly associated with the appetite-regulating hormones that control, regulate, and suppress hunger, satiety, or energy expenditure. Many observational and clinical studies prove that oats have a positive effect on anthropometric measures like BMI, waist circumference, waist-to-hip ratio, lipid profile, total cholesterol, weight, appetite, and blood pressure. Many studies support the concept that oats are rich in protein, fiber, healthy fats, Fe, Zn, Mg, Mn, free phenolics, ß-glucan, ferulic acid, avenanthramides, and many more. Beta-glucan is the most important bioactive component that lowers cholesterol levels and supports the defense system of the body to prevent infections. Hence, several clinical studies supported oats utilization against obesity, appetite hormones, and energy regulation but still, some studies have shown no or little significance on appetite.

Results of various studies revealed the therapeutic potentials of oats for body weight management, appetite control, strengthening the immune system, lowering serum cholesterol, and gut microbiota promotion by increased production of short-chain fatty acids.
Effects of a vegetarian diet combined with aerobic exercise on glycemic control, insulin resistance, and body composition: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Long Yi , Ye Hua , Yang Jiaming , Tao Xi , Xie Huiyong , Zhang Jiahong , Zhong Yanbiao , Wang Maoyuan
Published: February 2023

Background

Vegetarian diets and aerobic exercise are increasingly accepted as a common way to improve lifestyle. Several studies have shown that vegetarian diets combined with aerobic exercise interventions have a significant effect on preventing and reducing the risk of metabolic diseases.

Methods

A search of the PubMed, EBSCO, Embase, CENTRAL, and Web of Science databases was conducted for comparative studies of pre- and post-vegetarian diet adoption combined with aerobic exercise interventions on glycemic control and body composition. Qualitative reviews and meta-analyses of fixed and random effects were conducted to pool available data. The results were validated by sensitivity analysis.

Results

A total of 27 studies were selected for meta-analysis. Combining the studies included in the meta-analysis showed a mean difference for homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance of − 0.75 (− 1.08 to − 0.42), fasting plasma glucose of − 0.27(− 0.30 to − 0.23), waist circumference of − 1.10 (− 5.06 to 2.86) and body mass index of − 0.70 (− 1.38 to − 0.01).

Conclusion

In summary, our findings suggest that participants who adopted a vegetarian diet combined with aerobic exercise intervention had significantly lower fasting plasma glucose and insulin levels and improved body composition compared to preintervention participants.

Level of evidence

Level I, systematic review and meta-analysis.
Robust tracking control of unknown models for space in-cabin robots with a pneumatic continuum arm
Authors: Wang Hui , Ma Ke , Wu Sihuan , Li Minghao , Lian Xiaobin , Zhang Jinxiu
Published: February 2023

The service robots of space station in-cabin have attracted more and more attention. The space in-cabin robot with a pneumatic continuum arm is studied in this paper. It could be safer, more efficient and more flexible than the space rigid robot. However, the coupling motion of the moving base and the pneumatic continuum continuous arm brings a new challenge for controlling the end-effector to track the desired path. In this paper, a new control method based on the zeroing neural network (ZNN) is developed to solve the high-precision kinematics trajectory tracking control problem of unknown models. The real-time Jacobian matrix of the in-cabin robots with a pneumatic continuum arm is estimated by the input–output information when the parameter and the structure of the kinematic model are unknown. Moreover, this paper also employs a modified activation function power-sigmoid activation function (PSAF) to improve the robustness. In addition, it is proved through the Lyapunov stability theory that the proposed control approach is convergent and stable. Finally, the simulation results are given to show the effectiveness and robustness of the proposed control method for space in-cabin robots with a pneumatic continuum arm.