bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abnormal Cockpit Pilot Driving Behavior Detection Using YOLOv4 Fused Attention Mechanism
Authors: Chen Nongtian , Man Yongzheng , Sun Youchao
Published: August 2022

The abnormal behavior of cockpit pilots during the manipulation process is an important incentive for flight safety, but the complex cockpit environment limits the detection accuracy, with problems such as false detection, missed detection, and insufficient feature extraction capability. This article proposes a method of abnormal pilot driving behavior detection based on the improved YOLOv4 deep learning algorithm and by integrating an attention mechanism. Firstly, the semantic image features are extracted by running the deep neural network structure to complete the image and video recognition of pilot driving behavior. Secondly, the CBAM attention mechanism is introduced into the neural network to solve the problem of gradient disappearance during training. The CBAM mechanism includes both channel and spatial attention processes, meaning the feature extraction capability of the network can be improved. Finally, the features are extracted through the convolutional neural network to monitor the abnormal driving behavior of pilots and for example verification. The conclusion shows that the deep learning algorithm based on the improved YOLOv4 method is practical and feasible for the monitoring of the abnormal driving behavior of pilots during the flight maneuvering phase. The experimental results show that the improved YOLOv4 recognition rate is significantly higher than the unimproved algorithm, and the calling phase has a mAP of 87.35%, an accuracy of 75.76%, and a recall of 87.36%. The smoking phase has a mAP of 87.35%, an accuracy of 85.54%, and a recall of 85.54%. The conclusion shows that the deep learning algorithm based on the improved YOLOv4 method is practical and feasible for the monitoring of the abnormal driving behavior of pilots in the flight maneuvering phase. This method can quickly and accurately identify the abnormal behavior of pilots, providing an important theoretical reference for abnormal behavior detection and risk management.
Empirical Analysis of Extended QX-MAC for IOT-Based WSNS
Authors: Afroz Farhana , Braun Robin
Published: August 2022

The Internet of Things (IoT) connects our world in more ways than we imagine. Wireless sensor network (WSN) technology is at the core of implementing IoT architectures. Although WSN applications give us enormous opportunities, their deployment is challenging because of the energy constraint in sensor nodes. The primary design objective of WSNs is therefore to maximize energy efficiency. Enhancing network quality of service (QoS), such as latency, is another crucial factor, particularly for different delay-sensitive applications. Medium access control (MAC) protocols are of paramount importance to achieve these targets. Over the years, several duty-cycled MAC protocols were proposed. Among them, the strobed preamble approach introduced in X-MAC has gained much interest in IoT field because of its several theoretical advantages. However, X-MAC is highly efficient only under light traffic. Under heavy traffic, X-MAC incurs high per-packet overhead and extra delay. In addition, X-MAC has several design flaws that can significantly degrade network performance. In this paper, we point out some specific malfunctions in the original X-MAC design and propose alternatives to reduce their impact. We present an energy-efficient, traffic-adaptive MAC protocol called QX-MAC that addresses the foreseen shortcomings in X-MAC. QX-MAC integrates Q-learning and the more bit scheme to enable the nodes to adapt the active period and duty cycle in accordance with incoming traffic. Finally, the performance of QX-MAC is thoroughly analyzed compared with other reference protocols to validate its efficacy. Our QX-MAC simulation results demonstrate substantial improvements in overall network performance in terms of energy consumption, packet loss, delay, or throughput.
A Brief Review of Deep Neural Network Implementations for ARM Cortex-M Processor
Authors: Lucan Orășan Ioan , Seiculescu Ciprian , Căleanu Cătălin Daniel
Published: August 2022

Deep neural networks have recently become increasingly used for a wide range of applications, (e.g., image and video processing). The demand for edge inference is growing, especially in the areas of relevance to the Internet-of-Things. Low-cost microcontrollers as edge devices are a promising solution for optimal application systems from several points of view such as: cost, power consumption, latency, or real-time execution. The implementation of these systems has become feasible due to the advanced development of hardware architectures and DSP capabilities, while the cost and power consumption have been maintained at a low level. The aim of the paper is to provide a literature review on the implementation of deep neural networks using ARM Cortex-M core-based low-cost microcontrollers. As an emerging research direction, there are a limited number of publications that address this topic at the moment. Therefore, the research papers that stand out have been analyzed in greater detail, to promote further interest of researchers to bring AI techniques to low power standard ARM Cortex-M microcontrollers. The article addresses a niche research domain. Despite the increasing interest manifested toward both (1) edge AI applications and (2) theoretical contributions in DNN optimization and compression, the number of existing publications dedicated to the current topic is rather limited. Therefore, a comprehensive literature survey using systematic mapping is not possible. The presentation focuses on systems that have shown increased efficiency in resource-constrained applications, as well as the predominant impediments that still hinder their implementation. The reader will take away the following concepts from this paper: (1) an overview of applications, DNN architectures, and results obtained using ARM Cortex-M core-based microcontrollers, (2) an overview of low-cost hardware devices and SW development solutions, and (3) understanding recent trends and opportunities.
Estimation of Internal Rate of Return for Battery Storage Systems with Parallel Revenue Streams: Cycle-Cost vs. Multi-Objective Optimisation Approach
Authors: Jurčević Jura , Pavić Ivan , Čović Nikolina , Dolinar Denis , Zoričić Davor
Published: August 2022

This paper assesses the profitability of battery storage systems (BSS) by focusing on the internal rate of return (IRR) as a profitability measure which offers advantages over other frequently used measures, most notably the net present value (NPV). Furthermore, this study proposes a multi-objective optimisation (MOO) approach to IRR estimation instead of relying on the simple linear optimisation and compares the results to the popular linear optimisation with battery cycle-cost penalty. The analysis is conducted under perfect foresight conditions by considering multiple revenue streams: arbitrage trading in the day-ahead and intraday markets, peak shaving, participating in the primary reserves market, and from photovoltaic (PV) power-generation unit. Data are collected for the German power market for 2017 and 2021. The results show that MOO approach yields similar IRR estimates to the cycle-cost model in 2017. However, higher market volatility and increased electricity prices in 2021 resulted in tangible differences. The analysis shows that, if such conditions are coupled with a low battery capacity price, the MOO method significantly outperforms the cycle-cost model. The effects of battery calendar lifetime and state of charge which decrease profitability are also considered. Nevertheless, a noticeable rise in profitability in 2021 relative to 2017 could provide enough compensation to address the issue of relatively poor viability track record.
Modeling of Turbulent Heat-Transfer Augmentation in Gas-Droplet Non-Boiling Flow in Diverging and Converging Axisymmetric Ducts with Sudden Expansion
Authors: Pakhomov Maksim A. , Terekhov Viktor I.
Published: August 2022

The effect of positive (adverse) and negative (favorable) longitudinal pressure gradients on the structure and heat transfer of gas-droplet (air and water) flow in axisymmetric duct with sudden expansion are examined. The superimposed pressure gradient has a large influence on the flow structure and heat transfer in a two-phase mist flow in both a confuser and a diffuser. A narrowing of the confuser angle leads to significant suppression of flow turbulence (more than four times that of the gas-drop flow after sudden pipe expansion without a pressure gradient at φ = 0°). Recirculation zone length decreases significantly compared to the gas-droplet flow without a longitudinal pressure gradient (by up to 30%), and the locus of the heat-transfer maximum shifts slightly downstream, and roughly aligns with the reattachment point of the two-phase flow. Growth of the diffuser opening angle leads to additional production of kinetic energy of gas flow turbulence (almost twice as much as gas-droplet flow after a sudden pipe expansion at φ = 0°). The length of the flow recirculating region in the diffuser increases significantly compared to the separated gas-droplet flow without a pressure gradient (φ = 0°), and the location of maximum heat transfer shifts downstream in the diffuser.
Thermal Performance Analysis of Materials and Configurations for Cylindrical Sidewalls of Charcoal Kilns
Authors: Valentim Antão Rodrigo , Behainne Jhon Ramírez , Junior Aldo Braghini
Published: August 2022

Most of the charcoal in the world comes from small and medium-sized producers, using rudimentary carbonization kilns that require significant time or energy during the heating and cooling stages of the process. Despite advances in improving the performance, the influence of materials used in the sidewalls of these kilns has been scarcely studied. Therefore, based on numerical simulations, the present study analyses the thermal performance of cylindrical sidewalls composed of combinations of metallic materials, ceramic materials, and insulating blankets grouped in three configurations: configuration I (sidewall with just one material), configuration II (sidewall with two materials assembled in series), and configuration III (pivoting sidewall). Results were encouraging, especially when comparing kiln configuration I with the novel configuration III. Simulations suggested that the proposed configuration III could reduce the heating time by 62%, the cooling time by 91%, the heat supplied to sidewalls by 80%, and the heat loss to the external environment by 99.7%. The save of wood charged into the charcoal kiln grew up to 7.3 times, varying the thickness of the inner layer of the sidewall.
An Exponential Solvent Chamber Geometry for Modeling the VAPEX Process
Authors: Cheperli Ali , Torabi Farshid , Sabeti Morteza , Rahimbakhsh Aria
Published: August 2022

Accurate simulation of the VAPEX process relies heavily on precise modeling of the solvent chamber propagation. In the previously developed models, the solvent chamber possesses either a linear, circular, or parabolic shape. In this study, an exponential solvent chamber model was considered to represent the propagation of the chamber throughout the spreading and falling stages of the VAPEX process. The tuning parameters of the proposed model include the exponential function coefficient and the transition region thickness. These parameters are altered by employing a MATLAB-based Genetic Algorithm (GA) to minimize the error between determined and measured cumulative produced oil in four experimental case studies presented in the literature. According to the outcomes, the proposed method can accurately adjust the cumulative produced oil to the measured values in both spreading and falling stages. Additionally, the thickness of the transition region obtained by this model is in reasonable agreement with the laboratory measurements. Accordingly, the average relative errors of all four cases for cumulative produced oil and transition region thickness are 7.73% and 5.12%, respectively. Consequently, the model estimates the oil production rate with reasonable precision and the predicted solvent chamber shapes are well-aligned with the experimentally observed chambers.
Assessment of Biomass and Biochar of Maritime Pine as a Porous Medium for Water Retention in Soils
Authors: Santos Rodrigo V. , Mendes Miguel A. A. , Alexandre Carlos , Carrott Manuela Ribeiro , Rodrigues Abel , Ferreira Ana F.
Published: August 2022

Pinewood biomass in Portugal can be considered a major source of biochar for soil physical, chemical, and biological edaphic amendment. This work intended to evaluate the aptitude of lab produced biochar for upgrading soil moisture dynamics’ relationships considering mixtures of biochar with silica-based sand. The methodology used focused on the carbonization of pine biomass with inert atmosphere at 300 °C, 400 °C, 500 °C and 600 °C, followed by a chemical proximate and thermogravimetric analysis, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared analysis, numerical modeling, and characterization of biochar porosity by gas adsorption (Brunauer–Emmett–Teller) and mercury porosimetry. The results showed the increased amounts of soil water retention and plant available water, evaluated through pF curves, due to biochar application. The thermogravimetric analysis mass loss patterns and FTIR transmittance, reflected major structural modifications in carbonized products by comparison with raw biomass. Mercury porosimetry showed that biochar pores between 392 and 250 μm and 32 μm and 6 μm gave the highest pore volume for water retention with a major increase from carbonization, by comparison with physical activation. The used methodologies allowed us to conclude that the carbonaceous feedstock can potentiate the improvement of soil water relations aiming at agricultural land use.
Development of Assessing the Thermal Comfort and Energy Performance for Buildings
Authors: Ji Wenhui , Yuan Yanping
Published: August 2022

Climate change is a growing global concern, threatening the worldwide environment, health, and economy [...]
Reservoir Quality and Its Control Factors of Complex Fault Block Reservoir in Continental Faulted Basin, Case Study in the Wang Guantun Area, Bohai Bay Basin, China
Authors: Zhao Bin , Han Wei , Ma Tingjian , Gao Gang , Ji Ling
Published: August 2022

Continental faulted basins are widely distributed in eastern China. Many of these basins, in which the faults block oil and gas reservoirs, have been explored. The heterogeneity of the reservoirs in fault block is very strong, shich restricts the further efficient development of these kinds of oil and gas fields. In this study, porosity and permeability tests, the use of thin sections of rock, mercury injection experiment and CT scan were used to investigate reservoir quality characteristics and control factors. The results showed that the content of quartz, feldspar, and debris in rock had a significant control function on the quality of the reservoir. Reservoir performance improved with increase of quartz and feldspar content, and worsened with increase of debris content. Taking the Ek1 reservoir in the Wang Guantun area as the specific research object, we developed the following understanding. On the one hand, the main compaction in the study area was mechanical compaction. When the compaction rate was greater than 60%, the porosity and permeability were inversely proportional to the compaction rate. On the other hand, dissolution pores were relatively developed in the study area, and the main types of dissolution were intragranular and intergranular dissolution pores. When the surface porosity of the dissolution pore was over 9.2%, porosity increased significantly the increase of dissolution surface porosity. This showed that dissolution surface porosity had greatly improved the reservoir porosity in this range.
Integrated Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of Power and Heat Supply for a Neighborhood: A Case Study of Herne, Germany
Authors: Quest Gemina , Arendt Rosalie , Klemm Christian , Bach Vanessa , Budde Janik , Vennemann Peter , Finkbeiner Matthias
Published: August 2022

(1) The use of renewable energy for power and heat supply is one of the strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. As only 14% of German households are supplied with renewable energy, a shift is necessary. This shift should be realized with the lowest possible environmental impact. This paper assesses the environmental impacts of changes in energy generation and distribution, by integrating the life cycle assessment (LCA) method into energy system models (ESM). (2) The integrated LCA is applied to a case study of the German neighborhood of Herne, (i) to optimize the energy supply, considering different technologies, and (ii) to determine the environmental impacts of the base case (status quo), a cost-optimized scenario, and a CO2-optimized scenario. (3) The use of gas boilers in the base case is substituted with CHPs, surface water heat pumps and PV-systems in the CO2-optimized scenario, and five ground-coupled heat pumps and PV-systems for the cost-optimized scenario. This technology shift led to a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions of almost 40% in the cost-optimized, and more than 50% in the CO2-optimized, scenario. However, technology shifts, e.g., due to oversized battery storage, risk higher impacts in other categories, such as terrestrial eco toxicity, by around 22%. Thus, it can be recommended to use smaller battery storage systems. (4) By combining ESM and LCA, additional environmental impacts beyond GHG emissions can be quantified, and therefore trade-offs between environmental impacts can be identified. Furthermore, only applying ESM leads to an underestimation of greenhouse gas emissions of around 10%. However, combining ESM and LCA required significant effort and is not yet possible using an integrated software.
Improved DDoS Detection Utilizing Deep Neural Networks and Feedforward Neural Networks as Autoencoder
Authors: Yaser Ahmed Latif , Mousa Hamdy M. , Hussein Mahmoud
Published: August 2022

Software-defined networking (SDN) is an innovative network paradigm, offering substantial control of network operation through a network’s architecture. SDN is an ideal platform for implementing projects involving distributed applications, security solutions, and decentralized network administration in a multitenant data center environment due to its programmability. As its usage rapidly expands, network security threats are becoming more frequent, leading SDN security to be of significant concern. Machine-learning (ML) techniques for intrusion detection of DDoS attacks in SDN networks utilize standard datasets and fail to cover all classification aspects, resulting in under-coverage of attack diversity. This paper proposes a hybrid technique to recognize denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks that combine deep learning and feedforward neural networks as autoencoders. Two datasets were analyzed for the training and testing model, first statically and then iteratively. The auto-encoding model is constructed by stacking the input layer and hidden layer of self-encoding models’ layer by layer, with each self-encoding model using a hidden layer. To evaluate our model, we use a three-part data split (train, test, and validate) rather than the common two-part split (train and test). The resulting proposed model achieved a higher accuracy for the static dataset, where for ISCX-IDS-2012 dataset, accuracy reached a high of 99.35% in training, 99.3% in validation and 99.99% in precision, recall, and F1-score. for the UNSW2018 dataset, the accuracy reached a high of 99.95% in training, 0.99.94% in validation, and 99.99% in precision, recall, and F1-score. In addition, the model achieved great results with a dynamic dataset (using an emulator), reaching a high of 97.68% in accuracy.
Color Stability Enhancement and Antioxidation Improvement of Sanhua Plum Wine under Circulating Ultrasound
Authors: Wu Zhiqian , Li Xusheng , Zeng Yingyu , Cai Dongbao , Teng Zhaojun , Wu Qixia , Sun Jianxia , Bai Weibin
Published: August 2022

Anthocyanins contribute to the attractive color of fruit wine, and their excessive degradation is deleterious to quality, especially for wine with an inherently low anthocyanin content, such as Sanhua plum wine. Ultrasonic treatment is well recognized for wine color maintenance. In the present study, fresh Sanhua plum wine was ultrasonic-treated and aged in barrels for three months. Our results demonstrate that ultrasonic treatment at 28 and 40 kHz improves color performance, as expressed by an increase in a*, b*, and C* values and color intensity, which is highly related to copigmentation. This successful conservation was attributed to the inactivation of polyphenol oxidase and the corresponding reduction in anthocyanin degradation. Finally, the increased antioxidative ability was verified due to the hydrogen donating ability of the surviving anthocyanins. This study indicates the reliability of ultrasonic treatment for providing superior colorfastness during Sanhua plum wine aging, which is also of great potential in processing different fruit wines.
Hazard Ratio and Hazard Index as Preliminary Estimators Associated to the Presence of Furans and Alkylfurans in Belgian Foodstuffs
Authors: Alsafra Zouheir , Scholl Georges , De Meulenaer Bruno , Eppe Gauthier , Saegerman Claude
Published: August 2022

This paper provides an estimation of the hazard related to the presence of furan and five alkyl furans (2- and 3-methylfuran, 2-ethylfuran, 2,5- and 2,3-dimethylfuran) in foodstuffs available in the Belgian market. To achieve this objective, a specific sampling plan was designed to ensure that the samples collected (n = 1003) represent the diversity of the Belgian food chain. Herein, the concepts of the Hazard Ratio of a sample (HRs) and the Hazard Index of a sample (HIs) were introduced to primarily characterize the hazard related to the co-occurrence of these compounds. The HRs was measured as the ratio of the potential daily exposure to a substance (expressed in mg/Kg of food) to both the 10% reference dose level for chronic effects (expressed in mg/(kg b.w*day)) and the human standard weight (expressed in kg). Whereas the HIs is the sum of the HRs of compounds that affect the same target organ/system, a hazard index greater than one indicates a highly contaminated matrix that could induce a hazard. It is an alarm indicating that additional attention should be given to this matrix. This may involve additional analyses to confirm the high level, to identify sources, etc. It is also an alarm for the risk assessor to be very careful with flagged matrices and to avoid combination with other matrices. The HIs highlight a relatively low concern for all foods analyzed (HI median < 1.0) with a relatively higher suspected hazard for coffee drinks (HI median = 0.068, HI max = 0.57). This preliminary estimation of the potential hazard suggests that coffee beverages should be examined in more detail in a full risk assessment and that coffee consumption should be taken with caution given the levels of furan and alkylfurans reported in this study.
Cereal Waste Valorization through Conventional and Current Extraction Techniques—An Up-to-Date Overview
Authors: Fărcaș Anca Corina , Socaci Sonia Ancuța , Nemeș Silvia Amalia , Salanță Liana Claudia , Chiș Maria Simona , Pop Carmen Rodica , Borșa Andrei , Diaconeasa Zorița , Vodnar Dan Cristian
Published: August 2022

Nowadays, in the European Union more than 100 million tons of food are wasted, meanwhile, millions of people are starving. Food waste represents a serious and ever-growing issue which has gained researchers’ attention due to its economic, environmental, social, and ethical implications. The Sustainable Development Goal has as its main objective the reduction of food waste through several approaches such as the re-use of agro-industrial by-products and their exploitation through complete valorization of their bioactive compounds. The extraction of the bioactive compounds through conventional methods has been used for a long time, whilst the increasing demand and evolution for using more sustainable extraction techniques has led to the development of new, ecologically friendly, and high-efficiency technologies. Enzymatic and ultrasound-assisted extractions, microwave-assisted extraction, membrane fractionation, and pressure-based extraction techniques (supercritical fluid extraction, subcritical water extraction, and steam explosion) are the main debated green technologies in the present paper. This review aims to provide a critical and comprehensive overview of the well-known conventional extraction methods and the advanced novel treatments and extraction techniques applied to release the bioactive compounds from cereal waste and by-products.
Special Issue Introduction: Intimate Belongings—Kinship and State Relatedness in Migrant Families in Denmark
Authors: Johansen Mette-Louise E. , Grøn Lone
Published: August 2022

Anthropologists and sociologists have paid increasing attention to how states and families entangle in modern societies [...]
The Cannabis-Induced Epigenetic Regulation of Genes Associated with Major Depressive Disorder
Authors: Mohammad Guldar Sayed , Joca Sâmia , Starnawska Anna
Published: August 2022

The prevalence of depression is increasing worldwide, as is the number of people suffering from treatment-resistant depression; these patients constitute 30% of those treated. Unfortunately, there have not been significant advances in the treatment of this disorder in the past few decades. Exposure to cannabis and cannabis-derived compounds impacts depression symptomatology in different ways, with evidence indicating that cannabidiol has antidepressant effects; there have been mixed results with medical cannabis. Even though the exact molecular mechanisms of the action underlying changes in depression symptomatology upon exposure to cannabis and cannabis-derived compounds are still unknown, there is strong evidence that these agents have a widespread impact on epigenetic regulation. We hypothesized that exposure to cannabis or cannabis-derived compounds changes the DNA methylation levels of genes associated with depression. To test this hypothesis, we first performed a literature search to identify genes that are differentially methylated upon exposure to cannabis and cannabis-derived compounds, as reported in methylome-wide association studies. We next checked whether genes residing in loci associated with depression, as identified in the largest currently available genome-wide association study of depression, were reported to be epigenetically regulated by cannabis or cannabis-related compounds. Multiple genes residing in loci associated with depression were found to be epigenetically regulated by exposure to cannabis or cannabis-derived compounds. This epigenomic regulation of depression-associated genes by cannabis or cannabis-derived compounds was reported across diverse organisms, tissues, and developmental stages and occurred in genes crucial for neuronal development, functioning, survival, and synapse functioning, as well as in genes previously implicated in other mental disorders.
New Insight into the Role of the Leucine Aminopeptidase 3 (LAP3) in Cell Proliferation and Myogenic Differentiation in Sheep Embryonic Myoblasts
Authors: Ge Ling , Su Pengwei , Wang Shan , Gu Yifei , Cao Xiukai , Lv Xiaoyang , Wang Shanhe , Getachew Tesfaye , Mwacharo Joram M. , Haile Aynalem , Yuan Zehu , Sun Wei
Published: August 2022

Previous genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have found that LAP3 may have the potential function to impact sheep muscle development. In order to further explore whether LAP3 expression has an important role in the development of sheep embryonic myoblasts, we conducted the spatiotemporal expression profile analysis of LAP3 at the tissue and cellular level. Then we used small interfering RNA and eukaryotic recombinant vectors to perform gain/loss-of-function analysis of LAP3. CCK-8 detection, EdU staining, and flow cytometry were used to investigate the impact of LAP3 knockdown or overexpression on the proliferation of embryonic myoblasts. In addition, cell phenotype observation, MyHC indirect immunofluorescence, and quantitative detection of the expression changes of myogenic regulatory factors (MRFs) were used to explore the effect of LAP3 on myogenic differentiation. The results showed that the LAP3 expression level in muscle tissue of fetuses was significantly higher than that in newborn lambs and adult sheep, and its expression level on day 3 of differentiation was also significantly higher than that in the proliferation phase and other differentiation time points. LAP3 silencing could significantly increase cell viability and EdU-positive cells, as well as prolonging the length of S phase of myoblasts to promote proliferation, while the results were reversed when LAP3 was overexpressed. Moreover, LAP3 silencing significantly hindered myotube formation and down-regulated the expression levels of MRFs from day 5 to day 7 of terminal differentiation, while the results were reversed when LAP3 was highly expressed. Overall, our results suggested that the expression of LAP3 impacts on the development of sheep embryonic myoblasts which provides an important theoretical basis for molecular breeding of meat production in sheep.
Indoloquinoline-Mediated Targeted Downregulation of KRAS through Selective Stabilization of the Mid-Promoter G-Quadruplex Structure
Authors: Psaras Alexandra Maria , Carty Rhianna K. , Miller Jared T. , Tumey L. Nathan , Brooks Tracy A.
Published: August 2022

KRAS is a well-validated anti-cancer therapeutic target, whose transcriptional downregulation has been demonstrated to be lethal to tumor cells with aberrant KRAS signaling. G-quadruplexes (G4s) are non-canonical nucleic acid structures that mediate central dogmatic events, such as DNA repair, telomere elongation, transcription and splicing events. G4s are attractive drug targets, as they are more globular than B-DNA, enabling more selective gene interactions. Moreover, their genomic prevalence is increased in oncogenic promoters, their formation is increased in human cancers, and they can be modulated with small molecules or targeted nucleic acids. The putative formation of multiple G4s has been described in the literature, but compounds with selectivity among these structures have not yet been able to distinguish between the biological contribution of the predominant structures. Using cell free screening techniques, synthesis of novel indoloquinoline compounds and cellular models of KRAS-dependent cancer cells, we describe compounds that choose between KRAS promoter G4near and G4mid, correlate compound cytotoxic activity with KRAS regulation, and highlight G4mid as the lead molecular non-canonical structure for further targeting efforts.
Over-Expression of Two Different Isoforms of Cattle TUSC5 Showed Opposite Effects on Adipogenesis
Authors: Xia Han , Li Fan , Peng Lingwei , Du Yuqin , Hua Guohua , Yang Liguo , Zhou Yang
Published: August 2022

(1) Background: Adipogenesis is an important issue in human health and livestock meat quality that has received widespread attention and extensive study. However, alternative splicing events may generate multiple isoforms with different functions. This will lead to known knowledge being far more complex than before. (2) Methods: We studied the effects of two different TUSC5 isoforms (TUSC5A and TUSC5B) in cattle on adipogenesis by constructing over-expression cell models and RNA-sequencing methods. (3) Results: We discovered that over-expression of TUSC5A promotes the process of adipogenesis while over-expression of TUSC5B suppresses it. Eight important genes (PPARG, ACC1, FASN, SCD1, LPL, FABP4, GPDH, and GLUT4) during adipogenesis were significantly promoted (student’s t-test, p < 0.05) by TUSC5A and suppressed by TUSC5B both before and after cell differentiation. By performing a comprehensive analysis using a RNA-seq strategy, we found that both up-regulated differentially expressed genes (DEGs, |log2FoldChange| ≥ 1, p ≤ 0.05) of TUSC5A and down-regulated DEGs of TUSC5B were significantly enriched in the adipogenesis related GO terms, and the PPAR signaling pathway may play important role in those differences. (4) Conclusions: Our study proved that over-expression of two TUSC5 isoforms would regulate adipogenesis in the opposite direction. It is important to understand the function of the TUSC5 gene correctly.
Principles of a Fast Probability-Based, Data-Adaptive Gravity Inversion Method for 3D Mass Density Modelling
Authors: Cozzolino Marilena , Mauriello Paolo , Patella Domenico
Published: August 2022

The aim of this paper is to present a 3D Probability-based Earth Density Tomography Inversion (PEDTI) method derived from the principles of the Gravity Probability Tomography (GPT). The new method follows the rationale of a previous Probability-based Electrical Resistivity Inversion (PERTI) method, which has proved to be a fast and versatile user-friendly approach. Along with PERTI, PEDTI requires no external a priori information. In this paper, after recalling the GPT imaging method, the PEDTI theory is developed and concluded with a key inversion formula that allows a wide class of equivalent solutions to be computed. Two synthetic cases are discussed to show the resolution that can be achieved in the determination of density contrasts and to examine the nature of the gravity non-uniqueness problem. Regarding the first issue, it is shown that the estimate of the density by PEDTI can change by about two orders of magnitude and get closer to reality with a more focused solution on a specific source body. Regarding the second problem, it is shown that two levels of equivalence can be classified, i.e., weak and strong equivalence, for a finer selection among the solutions. This is obtained by defining two appropriate statistical indices based on the information power of both the input and output gravity datasets.
Firth’s Logistic Regression of Interruption in Treatment before and after the Onset of COVID-19 among People Living with HIV on ART in Two Provinces of DRC
Authors: Shah Gulzar H. , Etheredge Gina D. , Schwind Jessica S. , Maluantesa Lievain , Waterfield Kristie C. , Mulenga Astrid , Ikhile Osaremhen , Engetele Elodie , Ayangunna Elizabeth
Published: August 2022

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic extends beyond the immediate physical effects of the virus, including service adjustments for people living with the human immunodeficiency virus (PLHIV) on antiretroviral therapy (ART). Purpose: To compare treatment interruptions in the year immediately pre-COVID-19 and after the onset of COVID-19 (10 April 2020 to 30 March 2021). Methods: We analyze quantitative data covering 36,585 persons with HIV who initiated antiretroviral treatment (ART) between 1 April 2019 and 30 March 2021 at 313 HIV/AIDS care clinics in the Haut-Katanga and Kinshasa provinces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), using Firth’s logistic regression. Results: Treatment interruption occurs in 0.9% of clients and tuberculosis (TB) is detected in 1.1% of clients. The odds of treatment interruption are significantly higher (adjusted odds ratio: 12.5; 95% confidence interval, CI (8.5–18.3)) in the pre-COVID-19 period compared to during COVID-19. The odds of treatment interruption are also higher for clients with TB, those receiving ART at urban clinics, those younger than 15 years old, and female clients (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The clients receiving ART from HIV clinics in two provinces of DRC had a lower risk of treatment interruption during COVID-19 than the year before COVID-19, attributable to program adjustments.
Factors Affecting the Infection Control Practices of Nurses at University Hospitals
Authors: Lee Mi Hyang , Jun Sun Hwa
Published: August 2022

This study was conducted to check the extent of nursing professionalism, time pressure, infection control, organizational culture, and the infection control practices of nurses, and to assess the factors that impart an influence on their infection control practices. This is a descriptive survey study aimed at the assessment of factors that impart an influence on the infection control practice of nurses by using a structuralized questionnaire. As the result of this study, the infection control practices of nurses have a positive correlation with the time pressure (r = 0.16, p = 0.034) and the organizational culture for infection control (r = 0.29, p < 0.001). Factors that affect the infection control practices included the organizational culture for infection control (β = 0.29, p < 0.001) and time pressure (β = 0.16, p = 0.024), with the explanation power of 10%. It was possible to confirm that the affirmative organizational culture for infection control plays an important role in enhancing the infection control practices of nurses. Accordingly, it is necessary to provide administrative and financial support from the organization, including support by the management and administrators of clinical practices, as well as the provision of required commodities in order for nurses to execute infection control in accordance with the prescribed regulations.
An Exploration of the Public’s Attitude toward Antibiotic Use and Prescription in Light of the Recent Ministry of Health Regulations: A Cross-Sectional Study in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Almalag Haya M. , Al-Yamani Mohammad J. , Alsalloum Haya F.
Published: August 2022

Background: Restricting antibiotic (AB) use with prescriptions and ensuring proper knowledge and attitudes toward AB use is important to reduce antibiotic resistance (ABR). To prevent resistanse problem, several countries have applied prescribing restrictions. Thus, the aim of this work was to re-evaluate the public knowledge and attitudes related to AB use in light of the recent Ministry of Health (MOH) restrictions on AB prescriptions. Methods: A cross-sectional, population-based survey was distributed through various social media platforms. The survey was distributed via email and personal social media. Data were collected and analyzed using appropriate statistical tests. Result: A total of 1333 participants completed the survey. Most participants were female (i.e., 70%), aged 18–24 years old (i.e., 40%), and were aware of the AB restrictions implemented by the MOH. In addition, 77% of participants were aware of the MOH Emergency Call Center (i.e., the 937 Service), but most did not know that it could be used to obtain an AB prescription. Conclusion: Although the knowledge and attitude of the general Saudi population appear better than before, it remains clear that some elements of the population’s knowledge, attitude, and practice need to be strengthened. This could be achieved by utilizing effective channels such as the MOH 937 Service and increased advertising.
Oligomicrodontia in a Pediatric Cancer Survivor after Chemotherapy: A Case Report
Authors: Zulijani Ana , Žigante Martina , Morelato Luka , Perić Berislav , Milardović Ana
Published: August 2022

Chemotherapy used on pediatric patients especially those below 3 years of age causes disturbances in dental development. The aim of this case report was to present the late dental effects of chemotherapy in a patient treated for anaplastic ependymoma (WHO III) at an early age. Radiographic findings at the age of 9 years showed oligomicrodontia of six teeth, maxillary lateral incisors, and maxillary and mandibular first premolars. Pediatric cancer survivors after chemotherapy have an increased risk of one or more dental development disorders. To ensure proper dental care and to assess the long-term effects on oral health, tooth development, and occlusion, the involvement of a dentist is crucial. Adequate diagnosis and well-planned treatment of the dental defect can significantly improve patient oral health-related quality of life.
Ultrasound in the Differential Diagnosis of Medial Epicondylalgia and Medial Elbow Pain—Imaging Findings and Narrative Literature Review
Authors: Konarski Wojciech , Poboży Tomasz , Kotela Andrzej , Hordowicz Martyna , Poboży Kamil
Published: August 2022

Medial epicondylalgia (ME), commonly known as “the golfer’s elbow”, typically develops in individuals who perform repetitive forearm movements and weight-bearing activities. It accounts for up to 20% of all epicondylitis cases and is most prevalent in particular sports and occupations. Though the diagnosis can be made based on sole clinical examination, additional imaging might be essential for confirmation of medial epicondylitis and excluding other pathologies of the medial epicondyle region. US imaging, with a sensitivity and specificity of 95% and 92%, respectively, remains a practical and accessible alternative to MRI. However, its diagnostic efficacy highly depends on the operator’s experience and requires proper technique. This article describes the ultrasound examination and technique for adequate visualization of elbow joint structures. It also discusses the differential diagnosis of other common and less-known pathologies of the medial compartment of the elbow, including snapping triceps, medial collateral ligament injury, and cubital tunnel neuropathy.
Usefulness of a Drug Information Resources Website (SAGASU-DI) Created Based on Inquiries to Clinical Pharmacists
Authors: Murasaka Toshiki , Kato Hideo , Sudo Hirofumi , Iwamoto Takuya
Published: August 2022

The use of drug information is increasing as the role of pharmacists expands. However, pharmacists spend a huge amount of time collecting drug information, and there has not been any drug information resource website that aims to improve the efficiency of community pharmacists with regard to drug information operations. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of a drug information resources website (SAGASU-DI). SAGASU-DI articles were created based on inquiries to clinical pharmacists. The usage statistics of the SAGASU-DI were monitored using Google Analytics between May and July 2021. In addition, a pop-up questionnaire was used to evaluate the usefulness of the SAGASU-DI in answering the questions of viewers. Statistics showed that our website had 25,447 users and 33,000 page views, with a browsing time of 29 s on average. Visitors accessed the website through desktop (51.9%) and mobile (44.3%) systems. Community pharmacists accounted for 40.2% of the visitors. The pop-up questionnaire showed that 23.2% of the viewers were satisfied with our website, and 1.5% of the viewers were not. Although 65.1% of the viewers refused to answer the questionnaire, the average percentage of the viewers who were satisfied with the site was 94.1%. The SAGASU-DI was found to be a valuable resource website for drug information services, mainly for community pharmacists.
Effectiveness of a Safe Sex Education Module in Improving Condom Use among People Living with HIV: A Randomised Controlled Trial
Authors: Abdilah Azline , Kadir Hayati , Mani Kulanthayan , Muthiah Ganesh
Published: August 2022

The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) epidemic in Malaysia has transitioned to occurring through more sexual transmission than injecting drugs in 2018. According to reports, the increase was caused by poor condom compliance and a lack of health programmes to prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among people living with HIV (PLWH). The purpose of the study was to create, implement, and evaluate the impact of a safe sex education module on condom use among PLWH. A single-blinded, parallel randomised controlled trial was conducted at Seremban district. The intervention group received additional health information geared toward safe sex education based on Social Cognitive Theory (SCT). The study primary analysis was the intention to treat, and the overall effects of the intervention were assessed using a generalised linear mixed model (GLMM). There was no significant difference between groups in terms of sociodemographics, sexual history, mean condom usage frequency score, or STI incidence at the study baseline. Receiving the module was linked to increased condom usage frequency (β = 1.228, % CI = 0.850, 1.606). When compared to conventional treatment provided in Seremban health clinics, this module effectively increases condom usage frequency among PLWH.
Are Crohn’s Disease Patients Limited in Sport Practise? An UltraEndurance Case–Control Study Response
Authors: Tornero-Aguilera José Francisco , Sánchez-Molina Joaquín , Parraca Jose A. , Morais Ana , Clemente-Suárez Vicente Javier
Published: August 2022

The aim of this study was to analyze the psychophysiological response of a Crohn’s Disease patient in an ultra-endurance event. The psychophysiological responses of a Crohn’s Disease and non-Crohn’s Disease participant were analysed before during and after an 8 h ultra-endurance running event. Results showed how Crohn’s patient presented a similar psychophysiological response than non-Crohn’s participant in the ultra-endurance event, except for a higher pre- and post-event sympathetic modulation, lower event sympathetic tone, and lower event body temperature. This study could contribute to improving physical activity recommendations for persons with Crohn’s Disease and open a new research line for an improved understanding of psychophysiological modifications of Crohn’s Disease patients during exercise.
Health Security: Definition Problems
Authors: Augustynowicz Anna , Opolski Janusz , Waszkiewicz Michał
Published: August 2022

The link between security and health is not a discovery. Despite the widespread recognition of the social importance of health security, there is no single common definition of this concept. The study’s objective was to search, analyse and evaluate possible original propositions to define the concept of “health security” in Polish professional literature published from 10 January 2017 to 31 March 2022. The research method was a scoping review performed in five stages according to H. Arksey and L. O’Malley. Ultimately, the study criteria were met by four studies. The proposed definition of health security in these papers failed to solve this problem and raised further questions and doubts. It is urgent to start a discourse on the meaning of the concept of “health security” with the broadest possible participation of representatives of various scientific disciplines, but taking into account the knowledge and practice of public health. It seems that it will be impossible to avoid the following questions: what is health security nowadays? What is health security as a personal issue? What are the necessary steps to achieve the consensus? Is it worthwhile to consider it on the international level?
Medical Students’ Perspectives on LGBTQI+ Healthcare and Education in Germany: Results of a Nationwide Online Survey
Authors: Brandt Gerrit , Stobrawe Jule , Korte Sophia , Prüll Livia , Laskowski Nora M. , Halbeisen Georg , Paslakis Georgios
Published: August 2022

The healthcare needs of lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans*, queer, and intersex (LGBTQI+) persons are often overlooked, prompting national and international calls to include diversity-related competencies into medical students’ training. However, LGBTQI+-focused healthcare education targets remain elusive, as surveys reveal considerable variability across national student populations. To generate empirical data and vocalize recommendations for medical education, we conducted the first nationwide online survey among 670 German medical students from 33 universities. Overall, most respondents reported low confidence regarding their medical training preparing them for LGBTQI+ patients, stated that LGBTQI+ themes were not covered during training, and agreed that the inclusion of such themes is urgently needed. In addition, we found gender and LGBTQI+ community member status to be key variables. Men scored lower in knowledge than women, while community members scored higher than non-community members. Similarly, community members reported higher comfort levels. Non-community men showed the highest levels of prejudice and efficacy beliefs, while at the same time had the lowest scores in contacts and the perceived importance of LGBTQI+-related teaching. Keeping subgroup differences in mind, we recommend that educational training should include LGBTQI+ healthcare aspects and address self-efficacy beliefs in future medical professionals to overcome LGBTQI+ healthcare disparities.