bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrating Renewable Energy Solutions in Small-Scale Industrial Facilities
Authors: Zemite Laila , Kozadajevs Jevgenijs , Jansons Leo , Bode Ilmars , Dzelzitis Egils , Palkova Karina
Published: June 2024

The purpose of this study was to analyze the economical suitability of numerous on-site renewable electricity generation technologies which were intended to be used in a recently built industrial facility designed and utilized as a warehouse. The facility was located in the vicinity of Riga, Latvia. Data were collected and calculations were performed within the scope of the project “Mitigating Energy Poverty through Innovative Solutions” as part of several planned activities to address the broad spectrum of energy poverty and self-reliance issues in both the residential sector and small-scale industrial facilities. During the project, evaluations of various renewable energy technologies, including PV installations, wind energy installations, battery storage solutions, and hybrid technologies, were carried out. The aim of these evaluations was to develop an electricity production–consumption model for efficient and cost-effective energy use and to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the test facility. A model was created and subsequent research scenarios were developed based on a payback period instead of the net present value criterion. The project was carried out over several steps to develop a calculation methodology. The open access databases of energy resource providers were used to evaluate statistical data and make forecasts for the analysis of the electricity consumption of companies. MATLAB/Simulink 23/2 was used for the data analysis, and the H-TEC method was employed. This made it possible to modulate the required production capacity as the model allowed for the addition of new modules to modules already installed. The project results proved that despite high initial investment costs, renewable energy sources and efficient storage systems can provide cost-effective solutions and reduce dependence on fossil fuels in the long term.
Multiphase LLC DC-Link Converter with Current Equalization Based on CM Voltage-Controlled Capacitor
Authors: Lee Yue-Lin , Hwu Kuo-Ing
Published: June 2024

In this study, a current-equalization technology utilizing a variable-capacitance technique for a multiphase inductor–inductor–capacitor (LLC) converter is studied. Accordingly, the proposed method involves adjusting the resonant capacitance of the LLC resonant converter to balance the currents between phases. This is achieved primarily by biasing ferroelectric multilayer ceramic capacitors (MLCCs) through a step-down circuit and a common-mode bias structure. These ferroelectric MLCCs serve as the resonant elements, allowing for variable capacitance by leveraging capacitance sensitivity to their trans voltages. This approach provides additional control flexibility to the resonant circuit. Furthermore, since each phase operates independently, the circuit can be scaled to accommodate any number of phases. Moreover, all switches in the circuit have zero-voltage switching (ZVS) turn-on, minimizing switching losses. This study initially analyzes and evaluates the proposed common-mode bias variable capacitance technique and the corresponding operational principles. Subsequently, a two-phase LLC experimental circuit based on a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) digital controller is utilized to assess current equalization and efficiency. That is to say, this experimentation aims to validate the effectiveness of the current-equalization variable-capacitance technique in an LLC resonant converter.
Maximizing Solar Share in Robust System Spinning Reserve-Constrained Economic Operation of Hybrid Power Systems
Authors: Saeed Rana Muhammad Musharraf , Khan Naveed Ahmed , Shakir Mustafa , Sidhu Guftaar Ahmad Sardar , Awan Ahmed Bilal , Baseer Mohammad Abdul
Published: June 2024

The integration of renewable energy is rapidly leading the existing grid systems toward modern hybrid power systems. These hybrid power systems are more complex due to the random and intermittent nature of RE and involve numerous operational challenges. This paper presents the operational model for solar integrated power systems to address the issues of economical operation, reliable solar share, energy deficit in case of contingency events, and the allocation of system spinning reserve. A mixed-integer optimization is formulated to minimize the overall cost of the system operation and to maximize the solar share under robust system spinning reserve limits as well as various other practical constraints. A Pareto-optimal solution for the maximization of the number of solar power plants and minimization of the solar cost is also presented for reliable solar share. Further, a decomposition framework is proposed to split the original problem into two sub-problems. The solution of joint optimization is obtained by exploiting a Lagrange relaxation method, a binary search Lambda iteration method, system spinning reserve analysis, and binary integer programming. The proposed model was implemented on an IEEE-RTS 26 units system and 40 solar plants.
Evaluation of Radio Access Protocols for V2X in 6G Scenario-Based Models
Authors: Orrillo Héctor , Sabino André , Marques da Silva Mário
Published: June 2024

The expansion of mobile connectivity with the arrival of 6G paves the way for the new Internet of Verticals (6G-IoV), benefiting autonomous driving. This article highlights the importance of vehicle-to-everything (V2X) and vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication in improving road safety. Current technologies such as IEEE 802.11p and LTE-V2X are being improved, while new radio access technologies promise more reliable, lower-latency communications. Moreover, 3GPP is developing NR-V2X to improve the performance of communications between vehicles, while IEEE proposes the 802.11bd protocol, aiming for the greater interoperability and detection of transmissions between vehicles. Both new protocols are being developed and improved to make autonomous driving more efficient. This study analyzes and compares the performance of the protocols mentioned, namely 802.11p, 802.11bd, LTE-V2X, and NR-V2X. The contribution of this study is to identify the most suitable protocol that meets the requirements of V2V communications in autonomous driving. The relevance of V2V communication has driven intense research in the scientific community. Among the various applications of V2V communication are Cooperative Awareness, V2V Unicast Exchange, and V2V Decentralized Environmental Notification, among others. To this end, the performance of the Link Layer of these protocols is evaluated and compared. Based on the analysis of the results, it can be concluded that NR-V2X outperforms IEEE 802.11bd in terms of transmission latency (L) and data rate (DR). In terms of the packet error rate (PER), it is shown that both LTE-V2X and NR-V2X exhibit a lower PER compared to IEEE protocols, especially as the distance between the vehicles increases. This advantage becomes even more significant in scenarios with greater congestion and network interference.
Urinary Hydroxyproline as an Inflammation-Independent Biomarker of Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Huss Muriel , Elger Tanja , Loibl Johanna , Kandulski Arne , Binder Benedicta , Stoeckert Petra , Mester Patricia , Müller Martina , Buechler Christa , Tews Hauke Christian
Published: June 2024

Predicting responses and monitoring the severity of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is challenging due to a lack of specific biomarkers. This study identifies urinary hydroxyproline, a marker of collagen turnover elevated in experimental colitis, as independent of conventional biomarkers like creatinine, glomerular filtration rate, C-reactive protein, and fecal calprotectin. Among 71 IBD patients, urinary hydroxyproline levels were significantly higher compared with 36 controls, with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.814, highlighting its potential as a diagnostic tool. No significant difference in hydroxyproline levels was observed between the 50 Crohn’s disease and 21 ulcerative colitis patients, nor was there a correlation with kidney function markers, gastrointestinal symptom severity, or stool consistency. Disease localization was not associated with urinary hydroxyproline levels. Interestingly, 14 patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis and IBD also exhibited elevated urinary hydroxyproline levels, comparable to IBD patients but higher than healthy controls. This underscores the role of urinary hydroxyproline as an independent biomarker for IBD diagnosis, without association with disease severity or established markers like fecal calprotectin.
Japanese Migration Patterns to Mexico: Settler Colonialism and Corporate Mobility
Authors: Mendez Rodriguez Alejandro
Published: June 2024

This article describes two distinct periods in the migratory flow of the Japanese to Mexico under the framework of settler colonialism. A historical review revealed that some agriculture colonies were formed by the Japanese in the south of Mexico with the goal to settle those lands. This was possible thanks to inter-governmental agreements in the early 1900s. Recently, the migration flow of the Japanese to Mexico is due to corporate mobility, mainly in the Bajío region in Mexico where many Japanese automakers are located. The implications of both types of immigration in both regions are described as part of this research. This research contributes to the understanding of migration flows and mobility patterns of the Japanese in Mexico.
Y Chromosome Story—Ancient Genetic Data as a Supplementary Tool for the Analysis of Modern Croatian Genetic Pool
Authors: Primorac Dragan , Šarac Jelena , Havaš Auguštin Dubravka , Novokmet Natalija , Bego Tamer , Pinhasi Ron , Šlaus Mario , Novak Mario , Marjanović Damir
Published: June 2024

Due to its turbulent demographic history, marked by extensive settlement and gene flow from diverse regions of Eurasia, Southeastern Europe (SEE) has consistently served as a genetic crossroads between East and West and a junction for the migrations that reshaped Europe’s population. SEE, including modern Croatian territory, was a crucial passage from the Near East and even more distant regions and human populations in this region, as almost any other European population represents a remarkable genetic mixture. Modern humans have continuously occupied this region since the Upper Paleolithic era, and different (pre)historical events have left a distinctive genetic signature on the historical narrative of this region. Our views of its history have been mostly renewed in the last few decades by extraordinary data obtained from Y-chromosome studies. In recent times, the international research community, bringing together geneticists and archaeologists, has steadily released a growing number of ancient genomes from this region, shedding more light on its complex past population dynamics and shaping the genetic pool in Croatia and this part of Europe.
Identification, Characterization, and Deposit Model of Calcite Mineralization in the Middle Atlas Belts, Morocco
Authors: Ait Ali Abdelkhiar , Charroud Mohammed , Choukrad Jaouad , Ouahzizi Youssef , Si Mhamdi Hicham , El Moutaouakkil Nacir , Saoud Naoufal , Mechaqrane Abdellah
Published: June 2024

The Middle Atlas hosts calcite veins of considerable economic value, being found in the Mahdi and Bou Naceur ridges in the eastern part of the Moroccan Middle Atlas. In this study, we aim to identify the fundamental factors controlling mineralization, which could be essential for the exploration of calcite minerals. Jurassic dolomites and limestones host calcite deposits. Mineralization is controlled by the NE-SW sinistral fault system of the Mahdi Ridge as well as by the NW-SE dextral fault system of the Bou Naceur Ridge. These veins exhibit a Riedel shear system. The edges of the veins display different textures, such as banded and brecciated calcite. At the heart of the veins are deposits of massive, automorphic, pure crystalline calcite. Geochemical analyses revealed carbonate rock dissolution and carbonate fluid infiltration, indicating the presence of a low-temperature hydrothermal system. These mineralizations are a response to the evolution of the geodynamic uplift of the Middle Atlas during the Neogene, which occurred during the Alpine orogeny.
Experience of Discrimination and Oral Health Self-Perception: A Cross-Sectional Study among Brazilian Adults
Authors: Vieira Renato Vitor , Cruz Carlos Antonio Gomes da , Alencar Gizelton Pereira , Gomes Viviane Elisângela , Chalub Loliza Luiz Figueiredo Houri , Soares Anna Rachel dos Santos , Fonseca Maria Luiza Viana , Kawachi Ichiro , Ferreira Raquel Conceição
Published: June 2024

This cross-sectional study investigated the association between experiences of discrimination and oral health self-perception among a probabilistic cluster sample of Brazilian adults who participated in the 2013 National Health Survey. Oral health self-perception was categorized into three groups (very good + good; fair; poor + very poor). Reported experiences of discrimination included attributions based on the respondent’s race/skin color, social class, income, occupation, illness, sexual orientation, religion, sex, and age. Covariates included sociodemographic data, oral health conditions, access to healthcare services, health habits, mental health, and participation in social and/or religious activities. Data were analyzed using ordinal logistic regression for non-proportional odds, considering sample weights and complex samples. Among 60,202 adults, 5.84% perceived their oral health as poor + very poor, with a significantly higher proportion among those experiencing discrimination (9.98%). Adults who experienced discrimination were 1.39 times more likely to report a “poor/very poor/fair” oral health self-perception compared to those who did not experience discrimination. Those who suffered discrimination were 1.28 times more likely to have a “very poor/poor” oral health self-perception than their counterparts who were not affected by discrimination. These findings underscore the importance of considering discrimination experiences as part of the social determinants influencing oral health.
Constant Leverage Covering Strategy for Equity Momentum Portfolio with Transaction Costs
Authors: Negrete Mario Enrique
Published: June 2024

The Constant Leverage covering strategy for the equity momentum portfolio (CLvg) developed in this project cannot mask its shortcomings by increasing leverage. It has to successfully forecast and avoid more losses than profits to perform better than the momentum portfolio. This approach is different from other covering strategies available in the literature that focus on increasing the right tail of the momentum returns distribution at a faster rate than they increase the left tail. The CLvg strategy only depends on past information and uses the daily volatility of the loser portfolio to determine episodes of high and low volatility. The daily volatility of the loser portfolio has a stronger relationship with large negative momentum returns than the daily volatility of the momentum portfolio. The daily volatility of the loser portfolio also has a weaker relationship with larger positive monthly returns, and it is more predictable because it has a higher volatility persistence. The negative effects of transaction costs on the CLvg strategy are measured using bid and ask prices reported by CRSP from 1992 to 2021. During this period, the stock market presented an average excess return of 9.19% and a Sharpe ratio of 0.61, and 9.74% of its returns were crashes, which is a better performance than the momentum portfolio. The CLvg adjusted by transaction costs presented excess returns of 16.93% and a Sharpe ratio of 0.84, and only 8.31% of its returns were crashes.
Identifying the Hierarchical Structure of Nighttime Economic Agglomerations Based on the Fusion of Multisource Data
Authors: Wan Weijie , Chen Hongfei , Yang Xiping , Li Renda , Cui Yuzheng , Hu Yiyang
Published: June 2024

Nighttime economic development is an important driving force in urban economic development, and identification of the levels and boundary ranges of nighttime economic agglomerations is an important part of the management of the nighttime economy. Previous studies have been limited by the use of a single data source to identify nighttime economic agglomerations. To address this limitation, multisource data fusion was used in this study to integrate nighttime lighting data, point of interest data, and check-in data and to assess the nighttime economy more comprehensively from the perspectives of both providers and receivers in the nighttime economy. To identify the hierarchical structure and boundaries of nighttime economic agglomerations accurately, a two-step method was used to identify local hotspots of the nighttime economy, divide the nighttime economic agglomerations into levels, and explore the spatial distribution and functional characteristics of different levels of nighttime economic zones. Comparative experiments showed the method used in this study to be rational and accurate. The methods and results of this study can provide a more comprehensive approach to the precise identification of nighttime economic agglomerations and guidance for the future planning, rational development, and management of nighttime economic agglomerations.
A Narrative Review of the Role of Estrogen (Receptors) in Melanoma
Authors: Caerts Diet , Garmyn Maria , Güvenç Canan
Published: June 2024

In this narrative review, we attempt to provide an overview of the evidence regarding the role of estrogen (receptors) in cutaneous melanoma (CM). We reviewed 68 studies and 4 systematic reviews and meta-analyses published from 2002 up to and including 2022. The prevailing presence of estrogen receptor β (ERβ) instead of estrogen receptor α (ERα) in CM is notable, with ERβ potentially playing a protective role and being less frequently detected in progressive cases. While men with CM generally experience a less favorable prognosis, this distinction may become negligible with advancing age. The role of oral contraceptives (OC) and hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in CM remains controversial. However, recent studies tend to associate the use of these exogenous hormones with a heightened risk of CM, mostly only when using estrogen therapy and not in combination with progesterone. On the contrary, the majority of studies find no substantial influence of in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment on CM risk. Reproductive factors, including younger age at first childbirth, higher parity, and shorter reproductive life, show conflicting evidence, with some studies suggesting a lower CM risk. We suggest an important role for estrogens in CM. More research is needed, but the integration of estrogens and targeting the estrogen receptors in melanoma therapy holds promise for future developments in the field.
Bisphenol-A in Drinking Water Accelerates Mammary Cancerogenesis and Favors an Immunosuppressive Tumor Microenvironment in BALB–neuT Mice
Authors: Focaccetti Chiara , Nardozi Daniela , Benvenuto Monica , Lucarini Valeria , Angiolini Valentina , Carrano Raffaele , Scimeca Manuel , Servadei Francesca , Mauriello Alessandro , Mancini Patrizia , Besharat Zein Mersini , Milella Michele , Migliaccio Silvia , Ferretti Elisabetta , Cifaldi Loredana , Masuelli Laura , Palumbo Camilla , Bei Roberto
Published: June 2024

Bisphenol-A (BPA), a synthetic compound ubiquitously present in the environment, can act as an endocrine disruptor by binding to both canonical and non-canonical estrogen receptors (ERs). Exposure to BPA has been linked to various cancers, in particular, those arising in hormone-targeted tissues such as the breast. In this study, we evaluated the effect of BPA intake through drinking water on ErbB2/neu-driven cancerogenesis in BALB–neuT mice, transgenic for a mutated ErbB2/neu receptor gene, which reproducibly develop carcinomas in all mammary glands. In this model, BPA accelerated mammary cancerogenesis with an increase in the number of tumors per mouse and a concurrent decrease in tumor-free and overall survival. As assessed by immunohistochemistry, BALB–neuT tumors were ER-negative but expressed high levels of the alternative estrogen receptor GPR30, regardless of BPA exposure. On the other hand, BPA exposure resulted in a marked upregulation of progesterone receptors in preinvasive tumors and of Ki67, CD31, and phosphorylated Akt in invasive tumors. Moreover, based on several infiltration markers of immune cells, BPA favored an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Finally, in vitro cell survival studies performed on a cell line established from a BALB–neuT breast carcinoma confirmed that BPA’s impact on cancer progression can be particularly relevant after chronic, low-dose exposure.
The Expansion of Sirtuin Gene Family in Gilthead Sea Bream (Sparus aurata)—Phylogenetic, Syntenic, and Functional Insights across the Vertebrate/Fish Lineage
Authors: Simó-Mirabet Paula , Naya-Català Fernando , Calduch-Giner Josep Alvar , Pérez-Sánchez Jaume
Published: June 2024

The Sirtuin (SIRT1-7) family comprises seven evolutionary-conserved enzymes that couple cellular NAD availability with health, nutrition and welfare status in vertebrates. This study re-annotated the sirt3/5 branch in the gilthead sea bream, revealing three paralogues of sirt3 (sirt3.1a/sirt3.1b/sirt3.2) and two of sirt5 (sirt5a/sirt5b) in this Perciform fish. The phylogeny and synteny analyses unveiled that the Sirt3.1/Sirt3.2 dichotomy was retained in teleosts and aquatic-living Sarcopterygian after early vertebrate 2R whole genome duplication (WGD). Additionally, only certain percomorphaceae and gilthead sea bream showed a conserved tandem-duplicated synteny block involving the mammalian-clustered sirt3.1 gene (psmd13-sirt3.1a/b-drd4-cdhr5-ctsd). Conversely, the expansion of the Sirt5 branch was shaped by the teleost-specific 3R WGD. As extensively reviewed in the literature, human-orthologues (sirt3.1/sirt5a) showed a high, conserved expression in skeletal muscle that increased as development advanced. However, recent sirt3.2 and sirt5b suffered an overall muscle transcriptional silencing across life, as well as an enhanced expression on immune-relevant tissues and gills. These findings fill gaps in the ontogeny and differentiation of Sirt genes in the environmentally adaptable gilthead sea bream, becoming a good starting point to advance towards a full understanding of its neo-functionalization. The mechanisms originating from these new paralogs also open new perspectives in the study of cellular energy sensing processes in vertebrates.
Enhancement of Solubility, Stability, Cellular Uptake, and Bioactivity of Curcumin by Polyvinyl Alcohol
Authors: Kang Smee , Kim Minkyoung , Kim Hyelin , Hong Jungil
Published: June 2024

The biological activities and related mechanisms of curcumin, a major polyphenolic compound in turmeric, the rhizome of Curcuma longa, have been extensively investigated. Due to its poor solubility in water, the analysis of curcumin’s biological activities is limited in most aqueous experimental systems. In the present study, the effects of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), a dietary-compatible vehicle, on the solubility, stability, cellular uptake, and bioactivities of curcumin were investigated. Curcumin solubility was improved significantly by PVA; the color intensity of curcumin aqueous solution in the presence of PVA increased concentration-dependently with its peak shift to a shorter wavelength. Improved suspension stability and photostability of curcumin in an aqueous solution were also observed in the presence of PVA, even at 62.5 μg/mL. The scavenging activities of curcumin against DPPH, ABTS, AAPH radicals, and nitric oxide were enhanced significantly in the presence of PVA. PVA at 250 μg/mL also significantly enhanced the cytotoxic activity of curcumin against both HCT 116 colon cancer and INT 407 (HeLa-derived) embryonic intestinal cells by reducing the IC50 from 16 to 11 μM and 25 to 15 μM, respectively. PVA improved the cellular uptake of curcumin in a concentration-dependent manner in INT 407 cells; it increased the cellular levels more effectively at lower curcumin treatment concentrations. The present results indicate that PVA improves the solubility and stability of curcumin, and changes in these chemical behaviors of curcumin in aqueous systems by PVA could enhance the bioavailability and pharmacological efficacy of curcumin.
Measuring Potential People’s Acceptance of Mobility as a Service: Evidence from Pilot Surveys
Authors: Rindone Corrado , Vitetta Antonino
Published: June 2024

Sustainable mobility is one of the main challenges on a global level. In this context, the emerging Mobility as a Service (MaaS) plays an important role in the mobility of people. This paper investigates the main enabling factors for implementing the MaaS paradigm, with a specific focus on the level of acceptance of this new technology. To achieve this objective, the proposed methodology for measuring the potential MaaS acceptance is based on a set of pilot surveys. The methodology integrates motivational surveys with Stated and Revealed Preference (SP, RP) and Technology Acceptance Models (TAM). The collected data are processed to obtain indicators that measure the potential level of MaaS acceptance. The main results of the two pilot experiments are illustrated by referring to urban and extra-urban mobility with or without physical barriers. The results obtained show that the level of MaaS acceptance grows with the increase in generalized transport costs perceived by the users.
Dynamic Workload Management System in the Public Sector
Authors: Giotopoulos Konstantinos C. , Michalopoulos Dimitrios , Vonitsanos Gerasimos , Papadopoulos Dimitris , Giannoukou Ioanna , Sioutas Spyros
Published: June 2024

Workload management is a cornerstone of contemporary human resource management with widespread applications in private and public sectors. The challenges in human resource management are particularly pronounced within the public sector: particularly in task allocation. The absence of a standardized workload distribution method presents a significant challenge and results in unnecessary costs in terms of man-hours and financial resources expended on surplus human resource utilization. In the current research, we analyze how to deal with the “race condition” above and propose a dynamic workload management model based on the response time required to implement each task. Our model is trained and tested using comprehensive employee data comprising 450 records for training, 100 records for testing, and 88 records for validation. Approximately 11% of the initial data are deemed either inaccurate or invalid. The deployment of the ANFIS algorithm provides a quantified capability for each employee to handle tasks in the public sector. The proposed idea is deployed in a virtualized platform where each employee is implemented as an independent node with specific capabilities. An upper limit of work acceptance is proposed based on a documented study and laws that suggest work time frames in each public body, ensuring that no employee reaches the saturation level of exhaustion. In addition, a variant of the “slow start” model is incorporated as a hybrid congestion control mechanism with exceptional outcomes, offering a gradual execution window for each node under test and providing a smooth and controlled start-up phase for new connections. The ultimate goal is to identify and outline the entire structure of the Greek public sector along with the capabilities of its employees, thereby determining the organization’s executive capacity.
Floral Trait Preferences of Three Common wild Bee Species
Authors: Heuel Kim C. , Haßlberger Tim A. , Ayasse Manfred , Burger Hannah
Published: June 2024

The interaction between bees and flowering plants is mediated by floral cues that enable bees to find foraging plants. We tested floral cue preferences among three common wild bee species: Lasioglossum villosulum, Osmia bicornis, and Bombus terrestris. Preferences are well studied in eusocial bees but almost unknown in solitary or non-eusocial generalist bee species. Using standardized artificial flowers altered in single cues, we tested preferences for color hue, achromatic contrast, scent complexity, corolla size, and flower depth. We found common attractive cues among all tested bees. Intensively colored flowers and large floral displays were highly attractive. No preferences were observed in scent complexity experiments, and the number of volatiles did not influence the behavior of bees. Differing preferences were found for color hue. The specific behaviors were probably influenced by foraging experience and depended on the flower choice preferences of the tested bee species. In experiments testing different flower depths of reward presentation, the bees chose flat flowers that afforded low energy costs. The results reveal that generalist wild bee species other than well-studied honeybees and bumblebees show strong preferences for distinct floral cues to find potential host plants. The diverse preferences of wild bees ensure the pollination of various flowering plants.
Investigating Radio Frequency Vulnerabilities in the Internet of Things (IoT)
Authors: Anthi Eirini , Williams Lowri , Ieropoulos Vasilis , Spyridopoulos Theodoros
Published: June 2024

With the increase in the adoption of Internet of Things (IoT) devices, the security threat they face has become more pervasive. Recent research has demonstrated that most IoT devices are insecure and vulnerable to a range of cyber attacks. The impact of such attacks can vary significantly, from affecting the service of the device itself to putting their owners and their personal information at risk. As a response to improving their security, the focus has been on attacks, specifically on the network layer. However, the importance and impact of other vulnerabilities, such as low-level Radio Frequency (RF) attacks, have been neglected. Such attacks are challenging to detect, and they can be deployed using non-expensive equipment and can cause significant damage. This paper explores security vulnerabilities that target RF communications on popular commercial IoT devices such as Wi-Fi, Zigbee, and 433 Mz. Using software-defined radio, a range of attacks were deployed against the devices, including jamming, replay attacks, packet manipulation, protocol reverse engineering, and harmonic frequency attacks. The results demonstrated that all devices used were susceptible to jamming attacks, and in some cases, they were rendered inoperable and required a hard reset to function correctly again. This finding highlights the lack of protection against both intentional and unintentional jamming. In addition, all devices demonstrated that they were susceptible to replay attacks, which highlights the need for more hardened security measures. Finally, this paper discusses proposals for defence mechanisms for enhancing the security of IoT devices against the aforementioned attacks.
Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty versus Non-Operative Treatment of Three-Part and Four-Part Proximal Humerus Fractures in the Elderly Patient: A Pooled Analysis and Systematic Review
Authors: Bosch Thomas P. , Beeres Frank J. P. , Ferree Steven , Schipper Inger B. , Camenzind Roland S. , Hoepelman Ruben J. , Link Björn-Christian , Rompen Ingmar F. , Babst Reto , van de Wall Bryan J. M.
Published: June 2024

Background: The treatment of complex proximal humerus fractures in elderly patients is not yet fully elucidated. Of all treatment options, reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) and non-operative treatment (NOT) appear to provide the best results. Evidence to guide the choice between the two is sparse. Therefore, this review provides an overview of the available evidence on RSA versus NOT. Methods: Studies comparing complex proximal humerus fractures in patients aged >65 years treated either with RSA or NOT were included for systematic review and direct comparison via pooled analysis of patient-rated outcome and range of motion. Indirect comparison of case series and non-comparative studies on either treatment was performed separately. Results: Three comparative studies including 77 patients treated with RSA and 81 treated non-operatively were analysed. The RSA group scored better for both the Constant–Murley score (mean difference 6 points) and DASH score (mean difference 8 points). No differences were detected in ASES, PENN score, pain scores, or range of motion between treatment groups. The most common complications for RSA were infection (3%), nerve injury (2%), and dislocation (2%). Reoperation was required in 5%. In the NOT group, common complications included malunion (42%), osteonecrosis (25%), and non-union (3%); no reoperation was required. Patient satisfaction was equal in both groups. Conclusions: The functional outcomes and range of motion after RSA seemed satisfactory and potentially superior to NOT in elderly patients. Patient satisfaction was comparable despite a high malunion and osteonecrosis rate in the non-operative treatment group, which did not require re-interventions.
Opening Side of Unilateral Open-Door Laminoplasty Does Not Impact Improvement in Arm Pain or Space Available for the Spinal Cord
Authors: Merrill Robert K. , Subramanian Tejas , Asada Tomoyuki , Singh Sumedha , Lu Amy , Korsun Max , Maayan Omri , Akosman Izzet , Dowdell James , Huang Russel C. , Iyer Sravisht , Albert Todd J. , Lovecchio Francis , Kim Han Jo
Published: June 2024

Background/Objectives: There exists limited data guiding open-door laminoplasty. The objective of this study is to determine if open-door laminoplasty affects radiographic decompression or arm pain outcomes. Methods: Adult patients who underwent unilateral open-door laminoplasty cervical myelopathy were included. The side opened was dependent on surgeon discretion. We recorded preoperative side of symptoms, side of radiographic compression, arm pain scores, and canal diameter. Patients with open-side ipsilateral or contralateral to dominant symptoms or compression were compared to determine any effect on arm pain outcomes or spinal canal diameter. If the symptoms were equal bilaterally, patients were neutral. Results: A total of 167 patients were included, with an average age of 64 ± 11 years and average follow-up time of 64.5 ± 72 weeks. The average preoperative arm pain visual analog score (VAS) was 2.13 ± 2.86, and the average arm VAS after 6 months was 1.52 ± 2.68. For dominant symptoms, the ipsilateral, contralateral, and neutral groups had a significant improvement in arm VAS at >6 months postoperatively. For dominant compression, the ipsilateral and contralateral groups had a significant improvement in both arm VASs and canal diameter at >6 months postoperatively. No differences were seen between groups for either. We observed a significant correlation between size of plate and change in canal diameter; however, no differences were noted for arm pain. Conclusions: Laminoplasty may be effective in addressing radicular arm pain by increasing the spinal canal’s diameter and space available for the cord. The laterality of open-door laminoplasty did not affect arm pain improvement or canal expansion.
From Detection to Decision: How STIR Sequence MRI Influences Treatment Strategies for Osteoporotic Vertebral Fractures
Authors: Viola Réka , Aslan Siran , Al-Smadi Mohammad Walid , Süvegh Dávid , Viola Árpád
Published: June 2024

Background/Objectives: Osteoporotic vertebral fractures (OVFs) significantly impair quality of life. This study evaluates the impact of STIR sequence MR imaging on clinical decision-making for treating OVFs, mainly focusing on how MRI findings influence treatment modifications compared to those based solely on CT scans. Methods: This retrospective analysis reviewed cases from the Manninger Jenő National Traumatology Institute over ten years, where patients with suspected OVFs underwent CT and STIR sequence MR imaging. The study examined changes in treatment plans initiated by MRI findings. The diagnostic effectiveness of MRI was compared against CT in terms of sensitivity, specificity, and the ability to influence clinical treatment paths. Results: MRI detected 1.65 times more fractures than CT scans. MRI influenced treatment adjustments in 67% of cases, leading to significant changes from conservative–conservative, conservative–surgery, and surgery–surgery based on fracture characterizations provided by MRI. Conclusions: This study demonstrates that integrating STIR sequence MR imaging into the diagnostic pathway for OVFs significantly enhances the accuracy of fracture detection and profoundly impacts treatment decisions. The ability of MRI to reveal specific fracture features that are not detectable by CT scans supports its importance in the clinical evaluation of OVFs, suggesting that MRI should be incorporated more into diagnostic protocols to improve patient management and outcomes. The findings advocate for further research to establish STIR MRI as a standard osteoporosis management tool and explore its long-term benefits in preventing secondary fractures.
The Utility of Novel pH-Impedance Monitoring Parameters (PSPW Index and MNBI) in Pediatric Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Phenotypes—A Systematic Review
Authors: Pop Radu Samuel , Farcău Dorin , Chiperi Lăcrămioara Eliza , Dumitrașcu Dan Lucian
Published: June 2024

Background/Objectives: Researchers have proposed two novel impedance-pH parameters, mean nocturnal baseline impedance (MNBI) and the post-reflux swallow-induced peristaltic wave (PSPW) index, to enhance the diagnosis of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and enable better predictions of the effectiveness of anti-reflux therapies. This systematic review aims to synthesize the available evidence on the utility of the PSPW index and MNBI as diagnostic tools for pediatric GERD. Methods: A systematic search of studies reporting PSPW index and MNBI values in patients with GERD was performed in PubMed, Embase, Clarivate, Scopus, Cochrane and Google Scholar databases from their beginning until April 2024. The following terms were used: GERD, children, pediatric, PSPW and MNBI. Results: Eight studies were included, describing 479 patients ranging from 2 months to 17 years old over an 8-year period in 12 pediatric centers. Four studies demonstrated that children with pathological acid exposure have a significantly lower MNBI, with a good discriminatory ability to diagnose GERD. The PSPW index showed lower values in patients with reflux hypersensitivity (RH) compared to those with functional heartburn (FH). Conclusions: Patients with pathological acid exposure tend to exhibit lower MNBI and PSPW index values compared to those with normal acid exposure. MNBI and the PSPW index show promise as diagnostic tools in distinguishing between different GERD phenotypes. Further research is needed to establish standardized diagnostic criteria and optimize the clinical applicability in GERD diagnosis and management.
Left Ventricular Twist and the “Rigid Body Rotation” Pattern in Patients Treated with Anthracyclines or Anti-HER2
Authors: Guerra Federico , Stronati Giulia , Frangione Alice , Rrapaj Edlira , Flori Marco , Alfieri Michele , Principi Samuele , Barbarossa Alessandro , Ciliberti Giuseppe , Dello Russo Antonio
Published: June 2024

Background: During the physiological cardiac cycle, the helix orientation of the muscle fibres induces the rotation of the apex relative to the base of the left ventricular (LV). In heart failure, LV torsion is impaired, and rotation at basal and apical levels occurs in the same direction, a phenomenon called rigid body rotation (RBR). We aimed to evaluate whether the RBR pattern and GLS together could improve the diagnosis of cardiotoxicity in patients treated with anthracyclines and/or anti-HER2. Methods: With an observational, retrospective study involving 175 patients (mean age 55 ± 12 years, 94% females), we evaluated the development of cancer therapeutic–related cardiac dysfunction (CTRCD) defined according to ESC guidelines. We characterised LV dysfunction by echocardiographic standard and speckle-tracking (GLS and RBR pattern) measurements. Patients with a previous diagnosis of structural heart disease or atrial fibrillation were excluded. Results: At the time of enrolment, the chemotherapy regimen included trastuzumab (96%), pertuzumab (21%), and anthracyclines (13%). Twenty-two patients (12.5%) developed cardiotoxicity, and thirteen patients developed an RBR within 6 months of follow-up. In all cases, the RBR pattern was associated with cardiotoxicity (p < 0.001), reporting an optimal specificity but poor sensitivity at three and six months. However, the addition of the RBR pattern to the global longitudinal strain (GLS) ≥ −16% increased the odds ratio (OR) from 25.6 to 32.6 at three months and from 32.5 to 49.6 at six months rather than GLS alone. Conclusions: The RBR pattern improves the diagnostic accuracy of GLS for the detection of cardiotoxicity secondary to anthracyclines and anti-HER2-based treatments.
A Two-Stage Approach Integrating Provisional Biomaterial-Mediated Stabilization Followed by a Definitive Treatment for Managing Volumetric Muscle Loss Injuries
Authors: Clark Andrew R. , Kulwatno Jonathan , Kanovka Sergey S. , Klarmann George J. , Hernandez Claudia E. , Natoli Roman M. , McKinley Todd O. , Potter Benjamin K. , Dearth Christopher L. , Goldman Stephen M.
Published: June 2024

Treatment of volumetric muscle loss (VML) faces challenges due to its unique pathobiology and lower priority in severe musculoskeletal injury management. Consequently, a need exists for multi-stage VML treatment strategies to accommodate delayed interventions owing to comorbidity management or prolonged casualty care in combat settings. To this end, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) was used at concentrations of 5%, 7.5%, and 10% to generate provisional muscle void fillers (MVFs) of varying stiffness values (1.125 kPa, 3.700 kPa, and 7.699 kPa) to stabilize VML injuries as part of a two-stage approach. These were implanted into a rat model for a duration of 4 weeks, then explanted and either left untreated (control) or treated through minced muscle grafting (MMG). Additional benchmarks included acute MMG and unrepaired groups. At the MVF explant, the 7.5% PVA group exhibited superior neuromuscular function compared to the 5% and 10% PVA groups, the least fibrosis, and the largest median myofiber size among all groups at the 12-week endpoint. Despite the 7.5% PVA’s superiority amongst the two-stage treatment groups, neuromuscular function was neither improved nor impaired relative to acute treatment benchmarks. This suggests that the future success of a two-stage VML treatment strategy will necessitate a more effective definitive intervention.
A Neural-Network-Based Watermarking Method Approximating JPEG Quantization
Authors: Yamauchi Shingo , Kawamura Masaki
Published: June 2024

We propose a neural-network-based watermarking method that introduces the quantized activation function that approximates the quantization of JPEG compression. Many neural-network-based watermarking methods have been proposed. Conventional methods have acquired robustness against various attacks by introducing an attack simulation layer between the embedding network and the extraction network. The quantization process of JPEG compression is replaced by the noise addition process in the attack layer of conventional methods. In this paper, we propose a quantized activation function that can simulate the JPEG quantization standard as it is in order to improve the robustness against the JPEG compression. Our quantized activation function consists of several hyperbolic tangent functions and is applied as an activation function for neural networks. Our network was introduced in the attack layer of ReDMark proposed by Ahmadi et al. to compare it with their method. That is, the embedding and extraction networks had the same structure. We compared the usual JPEG compressed images and the images applying the quantized activation function. The results showed that a network with quantized activation functions can approximate JPEG compression with high accuracy. We also compared the bit error rate (BER) of estimated watermarks generated by our network with those generated by ReDMark. We found that our network was able to produce estimated watermarks with lower BERs than those of ReDMark. Therefore, our network outperformed the conventional method with respect to image quality and BER.
Role of Autologous Micro-Fragmented Adipose Tissue in Osteoarthritis Treatment
Authors: Trentani Paolo , Meredi Elena , Zarantonello Paola , Gennai Alessandro
Published: June 2024

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common complex musculoskeletal disorder, resulting from the degeneration of the articular cartilage and characterized by joint pain and dysfunction that culminate in progressive articular cartilage loss. We present our experience in the management of hip and knee OA by means of the intra-articular injection of fat micrograft, describing our approach, which was developed from the belief in the powerful reparative effect of autologous fat graft on damaged tissue, as well as its natural lubricating effect on the joints. Inclusion criteria were as follows: men and women, aged 20 to 80 years, that referred articular pain of the hips and/or knees, showing initial-stage degenerative OA. From October 2018 to July 2023, a total of 250 patients underwent treatment with the Sefficare® device (SEFFILINE srl, Bologna, Italy). The Superficial Enhanced Fluid Fat Injection device was used to perform autologous regenerative treatments in a safe, standardized, easy, and effective way on 160 women, 64%, and 90 men, 36%. A total of 190 procedures (76%) involved the knees, with 20 patients who were bilaterally treated, while 60 procedures, all unilateral, involved the hips (24%). The mean age at treatment was 52.4 years. Before treatment, each patient had undergone X-rays and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the painful hip/knee to evaluate and grade the articular OA. Postoperatively, each patient was assessed after one, three, six, and twelve months. The donor site postoperative course was uneventful other than minimal discomfort. Clinically, the ROM (range of motion) of the treated knee/hip increased an average of 10 degrees 3 months after treatment, but the stiffness was reduced, as reported by the patients. The VAS (Visual Analog Scale) was submitted at 3, 6, and 12 months, demonstrating a progressive reduction of pain, with the best score obtained at six months postoperatively. In total, 85% of patients were satisfied one year after treatment, with a considerable improvement in pain and quality of life. The satisfactory outcome of this minimally invasive procedure indicates that the intra-articular injection of fat micrograft can replace or considerably delay the need for the classical major joint replacement surgery, thanks to its impact on the quality of life of patients and financial cost.
Perception of Corporate Social Responsibility, Organizational Commitment and Employee Innovation Behavior: A Survey from Chinese AI Enterprises
Authors: He Hao , Sutunyarak Chonlavit
Published: June 2024

This study delves into the relationships between the perception of corporate social responsibility (PCSR), organizational commitment and employee innovation behavior, as well as the multiple mediating roles of affective, normative and continuance commitment in the relationship between the perception of CSR and innovation behavior. This research involved 419 employees from 15 artificial intelligence (AI) enterprises in Shenzhen, China. This study’s hypotheses were tested using structural equation modeling. The findings indicate that PCSR significantly impacts innovation behavior, and affective, continuance and normative commitments also positively influence innovation behavior. Moreover, these three commitments play a partial mediating role in the relationship between PCSR and innovation behavior. This study enriches and expands the understanding of the multiple mediating mechanisms between PCSR and employee innovation behavior, providing a theoretical basis and guidance for management to comprehensively understand the role of employees’ PCSR in enhancing organizational commitment and fostering innovation behavior.