bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Semi-Fragile, Inner-Outer Block-Based Watermarking Method Using Scrambling and Frequency Domain Algorithms
Authors: Senol Ahmet , Elbasi Ersin , Topcu Ahmet E. , Mostafa Nour
Published: February 2023

Image watermarking is most often used to prove that an image belongs to someone and to make sure that the image is the same as was originally produced. The type of watermarking used for the detection of originality and tampering is known as authentication-type watermarking. In this paper, a blind semi-fragile authentication watermarking method is introduced. Although the main concern in this paper is authenticating the image, watermarking for proving ownership is additionally implemented. The method considers the image as two main parts: an inner part and an outer part. The inner and outer parts are divided into non-overlapping blocks. The block size of the inner and outer part are different. The outer blocks have a greater area than the inner blocks so that their watermark-holding capacity is greater, providing enough robustness for semi-fragility. The method is semi-fragile and the watermarked image is authenticated despite the JPEG being compressed to 75% quality. The embedded watermark also survives innocent types of image operations, such as intensity adjustment, histogram equalization and gamma correction. Semi-fragile and selectively fragile authentication is valuable and in high demand specifically because it survives these innocent image operations while detecting ill-intentioned tampering. In this work, we embed a binary watermark into the inner and outer parts of images using a scrambling algorithm, discrete wavelet transform (DWT) and discrete cosine transform (DCT) in the blocks. The proposed methodology has high image quality after watermarking, with a PSNR value of 40.577, and high quality is also achieved after JPEG compression. The embedding process provides acceptable image quality after tamper attacks, including JPEG compression, Gaussian noise, average filtering, and scaling attacks with PSNR values greater than 29. Experimental results obtained show that the proposed semi-fragile watermarking algorithm is more robust, secure and resistant than other algorithms in the literature.
Stability Control Strategies for Bidirectional Energy Storage Converters Considering AC Constant Power Loads
Authors: Liu Xinbo , Wang Shi , Song Xiaotong , Zhou Jinghua
Published: February 2023

In islanded AC microgrids, negative impedance characteristics of AC constant power loads (AC CPLs) easily introduce large signal instability to the system, while energy storage systems sometimes compensate for the dynamic characteristics of AC CPLs, and increase the system stability. Although energy storage control techniques and characteristics have gained a lot of attention, few studies have derived quantitative design guidelines for energy storage systems from the aspect of stability improvement. In order to fill this gap, this paper proposes stability control strategies for bidirectional energy storage converters considering the characteristics of AC CPLs to guarantee large signal stability of islanded AC microgrids. The presented control techniques create quantitative limits for the DC bus voltage loop control parameters of the energy storage DC/DC converter and the integral control loop control parameter of the energy storage DC/AC converter, and also interpret the positive stability influence of energy storage systems and the negative stability influence of AC CPLs. The structure of the paper is as follows. Firstly, DQ coordinate transformation is adopted, and AC microgrid nonlinear models with the energy storage system in charging and discharging states are constructed. Then, large signal models are constructed depending on mixed potential theory. Stability control strategies for bidirectional energy storage converters are obtained, and AC CPLs power, storage system equivalent resistor, and micro power source power are all taken into account. Finally, based on simulation and experimental results, it is obvious that regulating the control parameters of the energy storage converter significantly increases the large signal stability of islanded AC microgrids without extra equipment. The method is very simple and easy to implement.
An Unmanned Helicopter Energy Consumption Analysis
Authors: Żugaj Marcin , Edawdi Mohammed , Iwański Grzegorz , Topczewski Sebastian , Bibik Przemysław , Fabiański Piotr
Published: February 2023

The number of operations incorporating E-VTOL aircrafts is increasing each year, and the optimization of the energy consumption of such vehicles is a major problem. In this paper, a small-scale ARCHER helicopter’s energy consumption is analyzed, wherein different flight conditions, main rotor revolutions, and flight control system settings are considered. The helicopter dynamic model was developed in the FLIGHTLAB environment and was then validated based on flight test data. The model used for the calculation of energy consumption was developed using the electric and dynamic characteristics of the main rotor, electric motor, and transmission system. The main part of this work concerns the analysis of electric energy consumption during the vehicle’s flight via the use of an automatic flight control system (AFCS) that ensures repeatable flight conditions. The AFCS was designed such that it includes both path and attitude control to provide hover and cruise control modes. The helicopter’s energy consumption was analyzed during different phases of flight, when executing maneuvers, and using different main rotor angular velocities to perform - a given task. The results show that the level of energy consumption significantly depends on the helicopter’s main rotor revolutions, flight speed, and the maneuvers performed. The proposed methodology can be used in prospective energy-efficient mission planning and UAV helicopter design.
Speed of Sound Measurements of Biogas from a Landfill Biomethanation Process
Authors: Segovia José Juan , Moreau Alejandro , Paredes Xavier , Fernández-Vicente Teresa E. , Vega-Maza David , Martín María Carmen
Published: February 2023

Biogas is drawing attention as it can be a solution both to increase the renewable energy for heat or power supply and to help achieve a decarbonized economy. In this work, the measurements of the speed of sound of three mixtures of biogas from the biomethanation plant of the municipal waste of Valdemingómez, Madrid (Spain), are presented. The measurements were performed using an acoustic resonator, which is able to measure the speed of sound of gas mixtures with a relative expanded uncertainty of approximately 0.08%. A virial-type equation was also applied to fit the experimental values of the speed of sound, and the heat capacities as perfect gas were derived with uncertainties below 0.8%. In addition, the experimental results were compared with those calculated with the reference equations of state for natural gas mixtures such as GERG-2008 and AGA8-DC92. For both equations, the average relative deviations were less than 0.02% and 0.2% for the speed of sound and the heat capacities, respectively. These values are less than the uncertainties of these equations, demonstrating their reliability in predicting the thermodynamic behavior of biogas.
Research on Hierarchical Control Strategy of ESS in Distribution Based on GA-SVR Wind Power Forecasting
Authors: Yu Linlin , Meng Gaojun , Pau Giovanni , Wu Yao , Tang Yun
Published: February 2023

In recent years, the world has been actively promoting the development of wind power, photovoltaic, and other new energy. The inherent randomness and intermittency of wind power output have led to the reduction of supply-side controllability and stability, and the power system is facing severe challenges. Aiming at the irregular fluctuation of wind power output and the restriction between the charge and discharge depth and service life of hybrid energy storage equipment, a hierarchical control strategy for a hybrid energy storage system based on improved GA-SVR wind power prediction is proposed. First of all, the short-term prediction of wind power output is carried out using Support Vector Regression (SVR), and the improved genetic algorithm is used for optimization. Then, the result obtained from the prediction calculation is used as the wind power output, and the internal initial power of each energy storage element is obtained through the hybrid energy storage capacity configuration method and further controlled through hierarchical control regulation. Finally, a simulation experiment is carried out on the proposed control strategy. The simulation algorithm shows that the proposed method can not only enhance the effective output of new energy but also extend the service life of energy storage and ensure the safe and stable operation of the power system.
PLF Design for DC-DC Converters Based on Accurate IL Estimations
Authors: Bosi Marco , Sánchez Albert-Miquel , Pajares Francisco Javier , Campanini Alessandro , Peretto Lorenzo
Published: February 2023

Even though today’s electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) standards and measurement techniques set specific limitations and a clear methodology to measure the conducted emissions (CE) of equipment under tests (EUTs), the design methodology of a suitable power-line filter (PLF) to solve non-compliance is, in general, neither accurate nor efficient. This is due to different reasons, such as unknown actual load and line impedances, unknown dominant mode in the CE, and/or inappropriate instrumentation for the appropriate measurements. The objective of this paper is to investigate if different topologies of switching mode power supplies (SMPSs) lead to different PLF structures. For the sake of exemplification, the analysis is focused on switched-mode DC-DC converters. From an EMC point of view, these devices can be completely modeled by means of Scattering (S)–parameter and CE measurements. Additionally, an analysis of their circuit models has been performed to allow a better comprehension of their characterization. In this paper, the circuit models of three different types of DC-DC converters are presented, and their component values (including nonlinearities and parasitic effects introduced by the actual behavior of the circuit elements) are estimated using the S-parameter characterization. Then, a new methodology for PLF design, based on accurate insertion loss (IL) estimations, is applied to obtain the optimal PLF for one of the converters. This methodology is experimentally tested and validated.
Usage of and Barriers to Green Spaces in Disadvantaged Neighborhoods: A Case Study in Shi Jiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
Authors: Dai Chenyang , Maruthaveeran Sreetheran , Shahidan Mohd Fairuz , Chu Yichun
Published: February 2023

Studies have shown that disadvantaged neighborhoods have fewer green spaces, resources, and facilities, resulting in residents facing more barriers to using green spaces. This study aims to quantify green space usage patterns and constraints in old residential neighborhoods in a large city in northern China. A questionnaire survey and semi-structured interviews were conducted with 668 residents. Results showed that most residents visited their local green spaces daily, often in the evenings, and spent between 30 and 60 min there. The number of visits on weekends is higher than on weekdays, with no difference in visiting alone or in groups. The main reason for visiting green spaces was to relax and enjoy nature, followed by spending time with family. Limitations to usage included poor physical environments, such as inadequate facilities, lack of maintenance, overcrowding, poor accessibility, limited activities, and pet restrictions. This study provides insights into the current state of green space utilization in old residential neighborhoods, as well as a discussion of the limitations, which could inform future renovations and designs of green spaces in these areas.
Specificity and Sensitivity of a Rapid LAMP Assay for Early Detection of Emerald Ash Borer (Agrilus planipennis) in Europe
Authors: Peterson Donnie L. , Kyle Kathleen , Sallé Aurélien , Pecori Francesco , Migliorini Duccio , Santini Alberto , Luchi Nicola , Cleary Michelle
Published: February 2023

Buprestids are an emerging threat to broadleaf forests across the world. Species such as emerald ash borer (EAB, Agrilus planipennis) seriously threaten ash (Fraxinus spp.) in North America and Europe. As it continues spreading west from European Russia, native European ash populations will suffer dramatic losses. Due to their cryptic lifestyle of the egg and larval stages on developing bark and vascular tissue, buprestids and other wood borers can be difficult to detect. Early detection tools are vital to implement fast eradication measures, and prevent the establishment of invasive species populations. Detection methods using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays to target specific taxa can be extremely timely to obtain results especially since samples need to be transported to the laboratory first. However, loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) eDNA assays are highly specific and sensitive providing results within 30 min after sample extraction. In this study, we investigated the specificity and sensitivity of an EAB LAMP assay as an early detection tool in Europe. The assay was specific to EAB when tested against 12 European Agrilus spp., five buprestids, two Scolytinae, and five cerambycids (n = 24). The LAMP assay sensitivity amplified DNA from a concentration as low as 0.02 pg/µL. These results demonstrate that the LAMP assay is a highly specific, sensitive tool that can be used to detect and monitor EAB in European forests and urban settings.
Habitat Suitability Evaluation of Different Forest Species in Lvliang Mountain by Combining Prior Knowledge and MaxEnt Model
Authors: Zhao Xiaonan , Zheng Yutong , Wang Wei , Wang Zhao , Zhang Qingfeng , Liu Jincheng , Zhang Chutian
Published: February 2023

The accurate habitat suitability evaluation of forest species is vital for forest resource management and conservation. Therefore, the previously published thresholds of soil organic carbon (SOC) contents for the six main forest species were used to screen sample points in this study; the maximum entropy modeling (MaxEnt) was applied to predict the potential distribution of those species in Lvliang Mountain, Shanxi Province, China. The following results were derived: (1) the area under the curve (AUC) value of the MaxEnt model was 0.905, indicating the model results had high accuracy; (2) the main environmental factors affecting the woodlands were mean diurnal temperature range, solar radiation, population density and slope; (3) the model accurately depicted the most suitable areas for those species, namely Populus davidiana Dode (Malpighiales: Salicaceae), Betula platyphylla Sukaczev (Fagales: Betulaceae), Quercus wutaishanica Mayr (Fagales: Fagaceae), Platycladus orientalis (L.) Franco (Pinales: Cupressaceae), Larix gmelinii (Rupr.) Kuzen. (Pinales: Pinaceae) and Pinus tabuliformis Carrière (Pinales: Pinaceae). This study has improved the representativeness of the samples based on prior knowledge to enhance the biological meaning and accuracy of the prediction results. Its findings provide a theoretical basis for the forest resource protection, management measures alongside the reconstruction of low-yield and low-efficiency forests.
Molecular Dynamics of Nanodroplet Coalescence in Quasi-Saturated Vapor
Authors: Beloborodov Dmitry , Vishnyakov Aleksey
Published: February 2023

The dynamics of coalescence of small Lennard–Jones droplets as a function of droplet size and temperature is explored with molecular simulations. Droplet sizes vary from several hundred to several thousand molecules, and three different temperatures are explored. As the droplets establish contact, a liquid-like bridge between them forms and grows, ultimately leading to a complete coalescence. The dynamics of the bridge growth are consistent with the “collective molecular jumps” mechanism reported in the literature rather than with the continuous interpretation of the coalescence process in terms of capillary and viscous forces. The effective coalescence time shows a linear growth with the droplet sizes. The influence of the larger droplet size is weaker but non-negligible. Surprisingly, practically no dependence of the coalescence time on the temperature is observed. Comparison of the coalescence times with the droplet lifespan in a suspension shows that for reasonably dense suspensions and small droplet sizes, the coalescence time becomes significant and should be accounted for in the theoretical models of aggregation.
Capsicum Waste as a Sustainable Source of Capsaicinoids for Metabolic Diseases
Authors: Yasin Mursleen , Li Li , Donovan-Mak Michelle , Chen Zhong-Hua , Panchal Sunil K.
Published: February 2023

Capsaicinoids are pungent alkaloid compounds enriched with antioxidants, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, analgesics, anti-carcinogenic, anti-obesity and anti-diabetic properties. These compounds are primarily synthesised in the placenta of the fruit and then transported to other vegetative parts. Different varieties of capsicum and chillies contain different capsaicinoid concentrations. As capsicums and chillies are grown extensively throughout the world, their agricultural and horticultural production leads to significant amount of waste generation, in the form of fruits and plant biomass. Fruit wastes (placenta, seeds and unused fruits) and plant biowaste (stems and leaves) can serve as sources of capsaicinoids which can provide opportunities to extract these compounds for development of nutraceutical products using conventional or advanced extraction techniques. Capsaicin and dihydrocapsaicin are two most abundantly found pungent compounds. Considering the health benefits of capsaicinoids, these compounds can help in reducing metabolic disease complications. The development of an advanced encapsulation therapy of safe and clinically effective oral capsaicinoid/capsaicin formulation seem to require evaluation of strategies to address challenges related to the dosage, limited half-life and bioavailability, adverse effects and pungency, and the impacts of other ligands antagonising the major capsaicinoid receptor.
Directional-Freezing-Assisted In Situ Sol–Gel Strategy to Synthesize High-Strength, Fire-Resistant, and Hydrophobic Wood-Based Composite Aerogels for Thermal Insulation
Authors: Hou Yan , Chen Junyong , Pan Defang , Zhao Lu
Published: February 2023

The undesirable inherent natural characteristics of wood, such as low mechanical strength, flammability, and hygroscopicity, limit its potential applications in the thermal insulation industry. Overcoming these disadvantages can greatly expand the application scope of wood. A new attempt at wood modification, the directional-freezing-assisted in situ sol–gel strategy, was used to obtain wood–silica composite aerogels with the unique multi-level ordered porous structure of wood. This method enables silica nanoparticles to successfully replace lignin and facilitates the formation of strong hydrogen bonds between the silica and cellulose molecules. This results in improved mechanical properties for the composite with a density similar to that of natural wood but a mechanical strength that can be up to five times greater. The thermal conductivity coefficient is also reduced to 0.032 W (m·K)−1 compared to 0.066 W (m·K)−1 for natural wood. This aerogel composite exhibits improved fire resistance and hygroscopicity, with a decomposition temperature increase of approximately 45 °C compared to natural wood. Additionally, the composite demonstrates self-extinguishing behavior, with the structure remaining intact after combustion, and thus enhanced fire resistance. Simultaneously, the enhanced aerogel composite hydrophobicity, with water contact angle of up to 120°, is beneficial to a prominent thermal insulation performance in a high-humidity environment. The successful synthesis of wood-based composite aerogels provides a new and innovative approach for the utilization of wood resources in the thermal insulation industry.
Exploring Occupational Therapists’ Professional Identity: A Q-Method Study
Authors: Souto-Gómez Ana-Isabel , Talavera-Valverde Miguel-Ángel , García-de-la-Torre María-del-Pilar , Márquez-Álvarez Luis-Javier
Published: February 2023

(1) Background: This study examines the nature of the rarely studied factors of the professional identity from an occupational therapist’s perspective. (2) Methods: Q-methodology was applied to identify the different perspectives. Participants were selected through a non-probability sampling procedure in the whole Spanish territory. Different assessment tools were considered, in order to develop an ad hoc tool which had 40 statements classified into four categories. A factor analysis was performed by applying Ken-Q analysis v.1.0. (3) Results: Thirty-seven occupational therapists participated in the study. Their diverse approaches revealed different perspectives that influence the professional identity of occupational therapists: professional identity, due to referents, a grey field on professional identity, reaffirming a common professional identity, the role of education and mentors on professional identity and the outcome of ongoing training, in order to develop the abovementioned identity. (4) Conclusions: Once the different aspects of the professional identity have been understood, future educational initiatives can be designed to adapt curricula to the professional scene.
Management of Bilateral Quadriceps Tendon Ruptures Post Total Knee Arthroplasty by Kesler Technique Using Fiber Tape
Authors: AlShaafi Waleed Ahmad , Alqahtani Mohammed Hassan , Assiri Abdullah Hassan , Alqhtani Abdulrhman Abdullah , Tedla Jaya Shanker , Motlag Dhuha Saeed
Published: February 2023

Total knee arthroplasty is an effective way to manage osteoarthritis patients surgically. However, patients may encounter post-surgical complications, such as quadriceps rupture in rare instances, in addition to surgical complications. In our clinical practice, we encountered a 67-year-old Saudi male patient with a rare bilateral quadriceps rupture two weeks post-total knee arthroplasty. The cause of the bilateral rupture was a history of falls in both knees. The patient was reported to our clinic with clinical features like pain in the knee joint, immobility, and bilateral swelling in the knees. The X-ray did not show any periprosthetic fracture, but an ultrasound of the anterior thigh revealed a complete cut of the quadriceps tendon on both sides. The repair of the bilateral quadriceps tendon was done by direct repair using the Kessler technique and was reinforced with fiber tape. Following knee immobilization for six weeks, the patient began intensive physical therapy management to decrease pain, enhance muscle strength, and increase range of motion. After rehabilitation, the patient regained a complete range of motion in the knee and improved functionality, and he could walk independently without crutches.
WebGIS-Based Real-Time Surveillance and Response System for Vector-Borne Infectious Diseases
Authors: Javaid Momna , Sarfraz Muhammad Shahzad , Aftab Muhammad Umar , Zaman Qamar uz , Rauf Hafiz Tayyab , Alnowibet Khalid A.
Published: February 2023

The diseases transmitted through vectors such as mosquitoes are named vector-borne diseases (VBDs), such as malaria, dengue, and leishmaniasis. Malaria spreads by a vector named Anopheles mosquitos. Dengue is transmitted through the bite of the female vector Aedes aegypti or Aedes albopictus mosquito. The female Phlebotomine sandfly is the vector that transmits leishmaniasis. The best way to control VBDs is to identify breeding sites for their vectors. This can be efficiently accomplished by the Geographical Information System (GIS). The objective was to find the relation between climatic factors (temperature, humidity, and precipitation) to identify breeding sites for these vectors. Our data contained imbalance classes, so data oversampling of different sizes was created. The machine learning models used were Light Gradient Boosting Machine, Random Forest, Decision Tree, Support Vector Machine, and Multi-Layer Perceptron for model training. Their results were compared and analyzed to select the best model for disease prediction in Punjab, Pakistan. Random Forest was the selected model with 93.97% accuracy. Accuracy was measured using an F score, precision, or recall. Temperature, precipitation, and specific humidity significantly affect the spread of dengue, malaria, and leishmaniasis. A user-friendly web-based GIS platform was also developed for concerned citizens and policymakers.
Urban Ecological Environment Quality Evaluation and Territorial Spatial Planning Response: Application to Changsha, Central China
Authors: Lu Chan , Shi Lei , Fu Lihua , Liu Simian , Li Jianqiao , Mo Zhenchun
Published: February 2023

Scientific territorial spatial planning is of great significance in the realization of the sustainable development goals in China, especially in the context of China’s ecological civilization construction and territorial spatial planning. However, limited research has been carried out to understand the spatio-temporal change in EEQ and territorial spatial planning. In this study, Changsha County and six districts of Changsha City were selected as the research objects. Based on the remote sensing ecological index (RSEI) model, the spatio-temporal changes in the EEQ and spatial planning response in the study area during 2003–2018 were analyzed. The results reveal that (1) the EEQ of Changsha declined and then rose between 2003 and 2018, showing an overall decreasing trend. The average RSEI declined from 0.532 in 2003 to 0.500 in 2014 and then increased to 0.523 in 2018, with an overall decrease of 1.7%. (2) In terms of spatial pattern changes, the Xingma Group, the Airport Group and the Huangli Group in the east of the Xiangjiang River had the most serious EEQ degradation. The EEQ degradation of Changsha showed an expanding and polycentric decentralized grouping pattern. (3) Massive construction land expansion during rapid urbanization caused significant EEQ degradation in Changsha. Particularly, the areas with low EEQ were concentrated in the areas with concentrated industrial land. Scientific territorial spatial planning and strict control were conducive to regional EEQ improvement. (4) The prediction using the urban ecological model demonstrates that every 0.549 unit increase in NDVI or 0.2 unit decrease in NDBSI can improve the RSEI of the study area by 0.1 unit, thus improving EEQ. In the future territorial spatial planning and construction of Changsha, it is necessary to promote the transformation and upgrading of low-end industries into high-end manufacturing industries and control the scale of inefficient industrial land. The EEQ degradation caused by industrial land expansion needs to be noted. All of these findings can provide valuable information for relevant decision-makers to formulate ecological environment protection strategies and conduct future territorial spatial planning.
Effects of Unilateral Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation with Illusionary Mirror Visual Feedback on the Contralateral Muscle: A Pilot Study
Authors: Ye Xin , Vala Daniel , Walker Hayden , Gaza Victor , Umali Vinz , Brodoff Patrick , Gockel Nathan , Nakamura Masatoshi
Published: February 2023

We aim to examine the cross-education effects of unilateral muscle neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) training combined with illusionary mirror visual feedback (MVF). Fifteen adults (NMES + MVF: 5; NMES: 5, Control: 5) completed this study. The experimental groups completed a 3-week NMES training on their dominant elbow flexor muscle. The NMES + MVF group had a mirror placed in the midsagittal plane between their upper arms, so a visual illusion was created in which their non-dominant arms appeared to be stimulated. Baseline and post-training measurements included both arms’ isometric strength, voluntary activation level, and resting twitch. Cross-education effects were not observed from all dependent variables. For the unilateral muscle, both experimental groups showed greater strength increases when compared to the control (isometric strength % changes: NMES + MVF vs. NMES vs. Control = 6.31 ± 4.56% vs. 4.72 ± 8.97% vs. −4.04 ± 3.85%, p < 0.05). Throughout the training, even with the maximally tolerated NMES, the NMES + MVF group had greater perceived exertion and discomfort than the NMES. Additionally, the NMES-evoked force increased throughout the training for both groups. Our data does not support that NMES combined with or without MVF induces cross-education. However, the stimulated muscle becomes more responsive to the NMES and can become stronger following the training.
Chinese Virtues and Resilience among Students in Hong Kong
Authors: Kuang Xiaoxue , Lee John Chi-Kin , Chen Junjun
Published: February 2023

Character strengths and training have a great impact on students’ whole-person development. This study examined the applicability of the Chinese virtues questionnaire (CVQ) and the relationships between students’ perceptions of virtues and resilience in Hong Kong, SAR, China. A total of 2468 pupils from primary and secondary schools in Hong Kong were recruited as the sample for this study. The results of confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) supported a measurement model of Chinese virtues, and the results of structural equation modeling (SEM) suggested that Chinese virtues were positively related to positive resilience and succumbing. Significant relationships were found between gender and students’ positive resilience, and school grade level showed a significant impact on the Chinese virtues, which in turn affect resilience. Student resilience could be enhanced by nurturing virtues and related character strengths, keeping in mind the role of gender and grade level.
The Effect of Vinyasa Yoga Practice on the Well-Being of Breast-Cancer Patients during COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Zok Agnieszka , Matecka Monika , Zapala Joanna , Izycki Dariusz , Baum Ewa
Published: February 2023

Background: Vinyasa yoga practice improves body fitness and potentially positively affects practitioners’ well-being and health. Due to the diverse intensity of practice and positions customized to the practitioner’s needs, it can also support cancer patients. Undertaking physical activity that has a potentially positive effect on well-being and health was particularly important during the self-isolation that followed the COVID-19 pandemic. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of three-month mild and moderate intensity vinyasa yoga practice on breast-cancer patients’ stress perception, self-confidence, and sleep quality during COVID-19 induced self-isolation. Methods: Female breast-cancer patients participated in twelve-weeks of online vinyasa practice during the COVID-19 induced self-isolation period. Meetings were held once a week, where 60-min vinyasa yoga sequences were followed by 15 min of relaxation. Patients completed pre- and post-intervention surveys to evaluate changes in the following outcomes: stress perception, self-confidence, and sleep quality. Forty-one female patients enrolled in the Vinyasa course completed the pre-intervention survey, while 13 attended all the meetings and completed the post-intervention survey. Results: The effect of the twelve-week yoga and relaxation practice significantly reduced sleep problems and stress of oncological patients. The participants also declared an improvement in their general well-being and self-acceptance. Conclusion: Dynamic forms of yoga combined with mindfulness techniques can be applied to patients treated for oncological diseases. It contributes to improving their well-being. However, in-depth studies are needed to analyze the complexity of this effect.
Patients’ Perceptions of Experiences of Postoperative Chest Drain Tube Insertion: A Pilot Survey
Authors: Kruk Agnieszka , Dziedzic Robert , Terech-Skóra Sylwia , Piotrkowska Renata , Mędrzycka-Dąbrowska Wioletta
Published: February 2023

Background: Pleural drainage is a routine procedure conducted after thoracotomy and thoracoscopy. It is used to remove air or excess fluid from a pleural cavity and enables proper lung expansion. Essential elements of care provided during hospitalization and treatment include meeting patients’ growing expectations and continually improving quality while optimizing safety. Aim: This study aimed to explore patients’ experiences with pleural drainage after thoracic surgery and their correlation with socio-demographic data. Methods: A pilot survey with an exploratory design was conducted at a large teaching hospital in Poland, in the Department of Thoracic Surgery at the University Clinical Centre in Gdansk. The study involved the analysis of 100 randomly selected subjects with a chest tube drain. A self-designed questionnaire was used to collect social, demographic, and clinical data. Twenty-three questions related to experiences with pleural drainage, ailments, limitations in daily functioning, and security with a chest tube were evaluated using a 5-point Likert scale. Patients completed the questionnaire on the third postoperative day. Results: Individuals fitted with a traditional water-seal drainage system felt safer than those from the digital drainage group (p = 0.017). Statistically significant differences were found in the assessment of nursing assistance (p = 0.025); the number of satisfied patients was greater in a group of unemployed people. No correlation was found between demographic and social factors and the patients’ sense of security (gender: p = 0.348, age: p = 0.172, education level: p = 0.154, professional activity: p = 0.665). Conclusions: Demographic and social characteristics did not significantly affect patients’ sense of safety with chest drainage types. Patients with traditional drainage felt significantly safer than patients with digital drainage. Patient knowledge of pleural drainage management was not satisfactory, with a number of patients indicating a lack of knowledge in this area. This is important information that should be considered when planning measures to improve the quality of care.
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Risk of Dry Eye Disease and Corneal Surface Damage: A Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Tseng Ching-Han , Tai Ying-Hsuan , Hong Chien-Tai , Dai Ying-Xiu , Chen Tzeng-Ji , Cherng Yih-Giun , Lai Shih-Chung
Published: February 2023

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) potentially involves multiple parts of the ocular system, including the lacrimal glands and the cornea. The present study sought to assess the risk of aqueous-deficient dry eye disease (DED) and corneal surface damage in patients with SLE. We conducted a population-based cohort study using Taiwan’s National Health Insurance research database to compare the risks of DED and corneal surface damage between subjects with and without SLE. Proportional hazard regression analyses were used to calculate the adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for the study outcomes. The propensity score matching procedure generated 5083 matched pairs with 78,817 person-years of follow-up for analyses. The incidence of DED was 31.90 and 7.66 per 1000 person-years in patients with and without SLE, respectively. After adjusting for covariates, SLE was significantly associated with DED (aHR: 3.30, 95% CI: 2.88–3.78, p < 0.0001) and secondary Sjögren’s syndrome (aHR: 9.03, 95% CI: 6.86–11.88, p < 0.0001). Subgroup analyses demonstrated that the increased risk of DED was augmented among patients with age < 65 years and female sex. In addition, patients with SLE had a higher risk of corneal surface damage (aHR: 1.81, 95% CI: 1.35–2.41, p < 0.0001) compared to control subjects, including recurrent corneal erosion (aHR: 2.98, 95% CI: 1.63–5.46, p = 0.0004) and corneal scar (aHR: 2.23, 95% CI: 1.08–4.61, p = 0.0302). In this 12-year nationwide cohort study, we found that SLE was associated with increased risks of DED and corneal surface damage. Regular ophthalmology surveillance should be considered to prevent sight-threatening sequelae among patients with SLE.
The Mediating Effect of Central Obesity on the Association between Dietary Quality, Dietary Inflammation Level and Low-Grade Inflammation-Related Serum Inflammatory Markers in Adults
Authors: Zhang Shuai , Yang Xuebin , E Limei , Zhang Xiaofei , Chen Hongru , Jiang Xiubo
Published: February 2023

To date, few studies have explored the role of central obesity on the association between diet quality, measured by the health eating index (HEI), inflammatory eating index (DII), and low-grade inflammation-related serum inflammatory markers. In this paper, we use the data from the 2015–2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) to explore this. Dietary intakes were measured during two 24-h dietary recall interviews and using USDA Food Pattern Equivalence Database (FPED) dietary data. Serum inflammatory markers were obtained from NHANES Laboratory Data. Generalized structural equation models (GSEMs) were used to explore the mediating relationship. Central obesity plays a significant mediating role in the association between HEI-2015 and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), mediating 26.87% of the associations between the two; it also mediates 15.24% of the associations between DII and hs-CRP. Central obesity plays a mediating role in 13.98% of the associations between HEI-2015 and white blood cells (WBC); it also mediates 10.83% of the associations between DII and WBC. Our study suggests that central obesity plays a mediating role in the association of dietary quality with low-grade inflammation-related serum inflammatory markers (hs-CRP and WBC).
Does Lactate-Guided Threshold Interval Training within a High-Volume Low-Intensity Approach Represent the “Next Step” in the Evolution of Distance Running Training?
Authors: Casado Arturo , Foster Carl , Bakken Marius , Tjelta Leif Inge
Published: February 2023

The aim of the present study was to describe a novel training model based on lactate-guided threshold interval training (LGTIT) within a high-volume, low-intensity approach, which characterizes the training pattern in some world-class middle- and long-distance runners and to review the potential physiological mechanisms explaining its effectiveness. This training model consists of performing three to four LGTIT sessions and one VO2max intensity session weekly. In addition, low intensity running is performed up to an overall volume of 150–180 km/week. During LGTIT sessions, the training pace is dictated by a blood lactate concentration target (i.e., internal rather than external training load), typically ranging from 2 to 4.5 mmol·L−1, measured every one to three repetitions. That intensity may allow for a more rapid recovery through a lower central and peripheral fatigue between high-intensity sessions compared with that of greater intensities and, therefore, a greater weekly volume of these specific workouts. The interval character of LGTIT allows for the achievement of high absolute training speeds and, thus, maximizing the number of motor units recruited, despite a relatively low metabolic intensity (i.e., threshold zone). This model may increase the mitochondrial proliferation through the optimization of both calcium and adenosine monophosphate activated protein kinase (AMPK) signaling pathways.
Mapping Cropland Extent in Pakistan Using Machine Learning Algorithms on Google Earth Engine Cloud Computing Framework
Authors: Latif Rana Muhammad Amir , He Jinliao , Umer Muhammad
Published: February 2023

An actual cropland extent product with a high spatial resolution with a precision of up to 60 m is believed to be particularly significant in tackling numerous water security concerns and world food challenges. To advance the development of niche, advanced cropland goods such as crop variety techniques, crop intensities, crop water production, and crop irrigation, it is necessary to examine how cropland products typically span narrow or expansive farmlands. Some of the existing challenges are processing by constructing precision-high resolution cropland-wide items of training and testing data on diverse geographical locations and safe frontiers, computing capacity, and managing vast volumes of geographical data. This analysis includes eight separate Sentinel-2 multi-spectral instruments data from 2018 to 2019 (Short-wave Infrared Imagery (SWIR 2), SWIR 1, Cirrus, the near infrared, red, green, blue, and aerosols) have been used. Pixel-based classification algorithms have been employed, and their precision is measured and scrutinized in this study. The computations and analyses have been conducted on the cloud-based Google Earth Engine computing network. Training and testing data were obtained from the Google Earth Engine map console at a high spatial 10 m resolution for this analysis. The basis of research information for testing the computer algorithms consists of 855 training samples, culminating in a manufacturing field of 200 individual validation samples measuring product accuracy. The Pakistan cropland extent map produced in this study using four state-of-the-art machine learning (ML) approaches, Random Forest, SVM, Naïve Bayes & CART shows an overall validation accuracy of 82%, 89% manufacturer accuracy, and 77% customer accuracy. Among these four machine learning algorithms, the CART algorithm overperformed the other three, with an impressive classification accuracy of 93%. Pakistan’s average cropland areas were calculated to be 370,200 m2, and the cropland’s scale of goods indicated that sub-national croplands could be measured. The research offers a conceptual change in the development of cropland maps utilizing a remote sensing multi-date.
Polymorphisms in Lymphotoxin-Alpha as the “Missing Link” in Prognosticating Favourable Response to Omega-3 Supplementation for Dry Eye Disease: A Narrative Review
Authors: Paik Benjamin , Tong Louis
Published: February 2023

Elements of inflammation are found in almost all chronic ocular surface disease, such as dry eye disease. The chronicity of such inflammatory disease speaks to the dysregulation of innate and adaptive immunity. There has been a rising interest in omega-3 fatty acids to attenuate inflammation. While many cell-based (in vitro) studies verify the anti-inflammatory effects of omega-3, different human trials report discordant outcomes after supplementation. This may be due to underlying inter-individual differences in inflammatory cytokine metabolism (such as tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α)), in which genetic differences might play a role, such as polymorphisms in the lymphotoxin alpha (LT-α) gene. Inherent TNF-α production affects omega-3 response and is also associated with LT-α genotype. Therefore, LT-α genotype might predict omega-3 response. Using the NIH dbSNP, we analyzed the relative frequency of LT-α polymorphisms among various ethnicities, each weighted by the genotype’s probability of positive response. While the probability of response for unknown LT-α genotypes are 50%, there is greater distinction in response rates between various genotypes. Hence, there is value in genetic testing to prognosticate an individual’s response to omega-3.
Microbiome Dysbiosis Shows Strong Association of Gut-Derived Altered Metabolomic Profile in Gulf War Chronic Multisymptom Illness Symptom Persistence Following Western Diet Feeding and Development of Obesity
Authors: Bose Dipro , Stebliankin Vitalli , Cickovski Trevor , Saha Punnag , Trivedi Ayushi , Roy Subhajit , More Madhura , Tuteja Ashok , Mathee Kalai , Narasimhan Giri , Chatterjee Saurabh
Published: February 2023

The pathophysiology of Gulf War Illness (GWI) remains elusive even after three decades. The persistence of multiple complex symptoms along with metabolic disorders such as obesity worsens the health of present Gulf War (GW) Veterans often by the interactions of the host gut microbiome and inflammatory mediators. In this study, we hypothesized that the administration of a Western diet might alter the host metabolomic profile, which is likely associated with the altered bacterial species. Using a five-month symptom persistence GWI model in mice and whole-genome sequencing, we characterized the species-level dysbiosis and global metabolomics, along with heterogenous co-occurrence network analysis, to study the bacteriome–metabolomic association. Microbial analysis at the species level showed a significant alteration of beneficial bacterial species. The beta diversity of the global metabolomic profile showed distinct clustering due to the Western diet, along with the alteration of metabolites associated with lipid, amino acid, nucleotide, vitamin, and xenobiotic metabolism pathways. Network analysis showed novel associations of gut bacterial species with metabolites and biochemical pathways that could be used as biomarkers or therapeutic targets to ameliorate symptom persistence in GW Veterans.
Transcriptome Analysis of Response to Zika Virus Infection in Two Aedes albopictus Strains with Different Vector Competence
Authors: Jia Nan , Jiang Yuting , Jian Xianyi , Cai Tong , Liu Qing , Liu Yuan , Xing Dan , Dong Yande , Guo Xiaoxia , Zhao Tongyan
Published: February 2023

Zika virus (ZIKV), which is mainly transmitted by Aedes albopictus in temperate zones, can causes serious neurological disorders. However, the molecular mechanisms that influence the vector competence of Ae. albopictus for ZIKV are poorly understood. In this study, the vector competence of Ae. albopictus mosquitoes from Jinghong (JH) and Guangzhou (GZ) Cities of China were evaluated, and transcripts in the midgut and salivary gland tissues were sequenced on 10 days post-infection. The results showed that both Ae. albopictus JH and GZ strains were susceptible to ZIKV, but the GZ strain was more competent. The categories and functions of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in response to ZIKV infection were quite different between tissues and strains. Through a bioinformatics analysis, a total of 59 DEGs that may affect vector competence were screened—among which, cytochrome P450 304a1 (CYP304a1) was the only gene significantly downregulated in both tissues of two strains. However, CYP304a1 did not influence ZIKV infection and replication in Ae. albopictus under the conditions set in this study. Our results demonstrated that the different vector competence of Ae. albopictus for ZIKV may be determined by the transcripts in the midgut and salivary gland, which will contribute to understanding ZIKV–mosquito interactions and develop arbovirus disease prevention strategies.