bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Study of the Factors Influencing the Construction Risk of Steel Truss Bridges Based on the Improved DEMATEL–ISM
Authors: Wang Xudong , Hu Changming , Liang Jing , Wang Juan , Dong Siyuan
Published: December 2023

To enhance the safety management of steel-truss-bridge construction, an evaluation method based on the improved DEMATEL–ISM was proposed to analyze the risk factors involved in such construction. Decision Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) is a method for systematic factor analysis that utilizes graph-theory and -matrix tools, allowing for the assessment of the existence and strength of relationships between elements by analyzing the logical and direct impact relationships among various elements in a system. The distinctive feature of Interpretative Structural Modeling (ISM) is the decomposing of complex systems into several subsystems (elements) and constructing the system into a multi-level hierarchical structural model through algebraic operations. Specifically, triangular fuzzy numbers are introduced initially to improve the direct influence matrix in the DEMATEL method, thereby reducing the subjectivity of expert evaluations. The degree of influence, influenced degree, centrality degree, and causality degree of each influencing factor are determined and ranked based on the above analysis. In response to the characteristics of top-push construction, 20 key factors were selected from four aspects: “human, material, environment, and management”. The top five identified influencing factors are displacement during pushing (X10), safety-management qualification (X18), local buckling (X14), overturning of steel beams (X13), and collision with bridge piers during guide beam installation (X7). Subsequently, corresponding solutions were proposed for different influencing factors. The results of the study offer targeted measures to enhance the safety management of steel truss bridge construction and provide a reference for accident prevention.
Numerical Simulation of Impact Effect on Stability of Transmission Tower Foundation
Authors: Song Lang , Chai Shaobo , Chai Lianzeng , Li Xianpeng , Liu Jinhao
Published: December 2023

The impact effect can cause structural damage to a transmission tower’s foundation and affect its overall stability. In order to study the influence of the impact effect on the stability of transmission tower foundations, a three-dimensional finite element numerical simulation method was used to investigate the variations in the extent of damage, displacement, and inclination degree of a transmission tower foundation under different impact velocities, impact durations, impactor shapes, and impact locations. The results show that as the impact velocity increases, the damage value of the transmission tower foundation continuously increases, and the damaged area expands. The lateral displacement value increases continuously with the duration of the impact effect, and the variation in lateral displacement follows a linear function distribution. The inclination degree of the transmission tower foundation increases continuously with increased impact duration and can lead to overturning failure. A smaller impact contact area results in a larger compressive damage value for the transmission tower foundation, and different impact contact areas lead to different modes of failure for the transmission tower foundation. The damage value and damaged area of the transmission tower foundation vary with the location of the impact. By comparing the deformation of the transmission tower foundation before and after reinforcement, it is evident that the reinforcement design can significantly improve the deformation resistance and anti-overturning capacity of the transmission tower foundation.
A Review of Thermal Comfort Evaluation and Improvement in Urban Outdoor Spaces
Authors: Liu Zheming , Li Jin , Xi Tianyu
Published: December 2023

Urban outdoor space is an important activity place for residents, and its thermal environment directly affects residents’ quality of life and physical and mental health. Due to global climate change and the acceleration of urbanization, the outdoor thermal comfort of urban residents has seriously declined, causing more and more scholars to pay attention to this problem and to carry out research. This paper summarizes the development history and evaluation principles of outdoor thermal comfort evaluation indices and sorts out the methods for achieving outdoor thermal comfort. This paper reviews the effects of urban climate, local microclimate, physiological, psychological, social, and cultural factors on outdoor thermal comfort. In addition, strategies for improving thermal comfort in urban outdoor spaces are discussed from the aspects of urban geometry, vegetation, surface materials, and water bodies. Finally, the existing problems and development directions of current urban outdoor space thermal comfort studies are pointed out. This review paper can provide a reference for the scientific planning and construction of urban outdoor spaces to improve people’s thermal comfort.
Optimized Integration of Lean Construction, Building Information Modeling, and Facilities Management in Developing Countries: A Case of Qatar
Authors: Musharavati Farayi
Published: December 2023

Over the past decades, the construction industry has benefited from implementing Lean Construction (LC) principles, extensive usage of Building Information Modeling (BIM) tools, and application of advanced Facilities Management (FM) theories as standalone packages. Recently, integrated applications of LC, BIM, and FM have attracted a lot of attention. While progress has been made, few researchers have attempted to develop a method for optimizing integrated applications of LC, BIM, and FM in developing countries. In addition, relatively little is known about the hindrances and challenges in integrating LC, BIM, and FM at various levels of inquiry. The current study contributes to these gaps by examining the challenges that hinder developing countries from adopting integrated applications of LC, BIM, and FM. Qatar, a rapidly developing economy, was used as a case illustration. In the present study, drivers for enabling optimized integration of LC, BIM, and FM were identified. A closed-ended survey was conducted to investigate and understand contextual and organizational factors that hinder the integration of LC, BIM, and FM at three levels of inquiry. Findings displayed that lack of communication skills, language barriers, and inappropriate training provided to low-level skilled workers were the most prominent hindrances. To this end, an integrated communication and collaborative environment for bridging the communication gap was outlined. Furthermore, the wide disparity in the levels of awareness, readiness, and implementation of LC, BIM, and FM across construction companies was identified as a major challenge in deploying and disseminating succinct knowledge on how to optimize the integration of LC, BIM, and FM. To resolve challenges, an integrated collaborative platform for disseminating differentiated knowledge and information on how to seamlessly integrate LC, BIM, and FM was developed. This integrated collaborative platform can be used by authorities to monitor progress and productivity in the construction industry. The significance of this study lies in providing a basis for organizations that intend to implement LC, BIM, and FM in an integrated manner.
Configurations for Four Urban Tree Species in the Santiago Metropolitan Region and Their Impact on the Environment According to CO2, PM2.5, Biogenic Volatile Organic Compounds and Water Resource Criteria
Authors: Díaz Marco Antonio , Blanco David , Almendro-Candel María Belén , Herrera Ignacio , Allende Ignacio , Pulgar Rubilar Pablo , Lizana Marcela , Pardo Francisco , Perillán Luis , Tapia Carolina
Published: December 2023

The rapid and disproportionate growth of many cities in South America, such as Santiago de Chile, has not included a design that considers the impact caused. Furthermore, industrial and housing growth has been based mainly on unsustainable economic criteria, attributing less importance to environmental criteria. This has caused problems related to global warming, pollution, water scarcity and health, especially harming populations with fewer resources. This study estimates and compares the impact of four tree species commonly used at the urbanization level, according to variables such as carbon dioxide (CO2), fine particulate matter (PM2.5), water resources, and biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs). Then, we will use the variable PM2.5 to assess the trees’ impact on the population and their economic resources using these tree species as a method of capturing this pollutant. The results obtained will be used to determine which one of the four species is the most suitable in each type of space within the Metropolitan Region of Chile (small spaces, uncultivated areas, large spaces near industrial areas, areas with patients with breathing problems, etc.) according to three criteria: a comparison between species using the number of trees in the investigated territory; contrasting the species with the amount of social housing; and a comparison between the species according to the total number of dwellings.
Telomere Maintenance Mechanisms in a Cohort of High-Risk Neuroblastoma Tumors and Its Relation to Genomic Variants in the TERT and ATRX Genes
Authors: Djos Anna , Thombare Ketan , Vaid Roshan , Gaarder Jennie , Umapathy Ganesh , Reinsbach Susanne E. , Georgantzi Kleopatra , Stenman Jakob , Carén Helena , Ek Torben , Mondal Tanmoy , Kogner Per , Martinsson Tommy , Fransson Susanne
Published: December 2023

Tumor cells are hallmarked by their capacity to undergo unlimited cell divisions, commonly accomplished either by mechanisms that activate TERT or through the alternative lengthening of telomeres pathway. Neuroblastoma is a heterogeneous pediatric cancer, and the aim of this study was to characterize telomere maintenance mechanisms in a high-risk neuroblastoma cohort. All tumor samples were profiled with SNP microarrays and, when material was available, subjected to whole genome sequencing (WGS). Telomere length was estimated from WGS data, samples were assayed for the ALT biomarker c-circles, and selected samples were subjected to methylation array analysis. Samples with ATRX aberration in this study were positive for c-circles, whereas samples with either MYCN amplification or TERT re-arrangement were negative for c-circles. Both ATRX aberrations and TERT re-arrangement were enriched in 11q-deleted samples. An association between older age at diagnosis and 1q-deletion was found in the ALT-positive group. TERT was frequently placed in juxtaposition to a previously established gene in neuroblastoma tumorigenesis or cancer in general. Given the importance of high-risk neuroblastoma, means for mitigating active telomere maintenance must be therapeutically explored.
Strategy for Pediatric Patients with Relapsed or Refractory Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase-Positive Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma: A Review
Authors: Noguchi Kazuhiro , Ikawa Yasuhiro
Published: December 2023

Anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK)-positive anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) is an aggressive T-cell lymphoma characterized by large T-cells with strong CD30 and ALK expression. Although conventional chemotherapy is effective in most patients, approximately 30% experience a relapse or refractory disease and have a poor prognosis. Several risk factors associated with poor prognosis have been identified in pediatric ALK-positive ALCL. These include morphological patterns with the small cell variant or lymphohistiocytic variant, leukemic presentation, the presence of minimal disseminated disease, or involvement of the central nervous system. Relapsed or refractory ALK-positive ALCL is often resistant to conventional chemotherapy; therefore, salvage therapy is required. In recent years, targeted therapies such as ALK inhibitors and brentuximab vedotin (BV) have been developed. ALK inhibitors block the continuous activation of ALK kinase, a driver mutation that leads to cell proliferation in ALK-positive ALCL. Additionally, BV is an antibody–drug conjugate that targets CD30-positive cells. Both ALK inhibitors and BV have displayed dramatic effects in chemoresistant ALK-positive ALCL. Weekly vinblastine treatment and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation have also been reported to be effective therapies. This article reviews pediatric ALK-positive ALCL, focusing on risk factors and treatment strategies for pediatric patients with relapsed or refractory ALK-positive ALCL.
Dosimetric Comparison of Conventional Radiotherapy, Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy, and Proton Beam Therapy for Palliation of Thoracic Spine Metastases Secondary to Breast or Prostate Cancer
Authors: Lideståhl Anders , Fredén Emil , Siegbahn Albert , Johansson Gracinda , Lind Pehr A.
Published: December 2023

The aim of this planning study was to compare the dosimetric outcomes of Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy (VMAT), Proton Beam Therapy (PBT), and conventional External Beam Radiation Therapy (cEBRT) in the treatment of thoracic spinal metastases originating from breast or prostate cancer. Our study utilized data from 30 different treatment plans and evaluated target coverage and doses to vital organs at risk (OARs), such as the spinal cord, heart, esophagus, and lungs. The results showed that VMAT and PBT achieved superior target coverage and significantly lower doses to the spinal cord compared to cEBRT (target: median PTVD95%: 75.2 for cEBRT vs. 92.9 and 91.7 for VMAT (p < 0.001) and PBT (p < 0.001), respectively; spinal cord: median Dmax%: 105.1 for cEBRT vs. 100.4 and 103.6 for VMAT (p < 0.001) and PBT (p = 0.002), respectively). Specifically, VMAT was notable for its superior target coverage and PBT for significantly lower doses to heart, lungs, and esophagus. However, VMAT resulted in higher lung doses, indicating potential trade-offs among different techniques. The study demonstrated the relative advantages of VMAT and PBT over traditional RT in the palliative treatment of spinal metastases using conventional fractionation. These findings underscore the potential of VMAT and PBT to improve dosimetric outcomes, suggesting that they may be more suitable for certain patient groups for whom the sparing of specific OARs is especially important.
Adverse Effect of the Duration of Antibiotic Use Prior to Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors on the Overall Survival of Patients with Recurrent Gynecologic Malignancies
Authors: Jung Hye-Ji , Park Jong-Ho , Oh Jina , Lee Sae-Mi , Jang Il-Yeo , Hong Jung-Yong , Lee Yoo-Young , Choi Hyun Jin
Published: December 2023

Purpose: Antibiotic use preceding immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) treatment has been associated with a decreased efficacy of ICI in solid tumors. In this study, we evaluated the effect of antibiotic use before ICI therapy on oncological outcomes. Methods: We examined patients with recurrent gynecologic malignancies at two academic institutions. The clinical data, including antibiotic use within 60 days of ICI initiation, type of antibiotics, reasons for antibiotic use, body mass index, tumor site, chemotherapy-free interval, prior history of radiotherapy, disease control rate (DCR), and overall survival (OS), were assessed. Results: Of 215 patients, 22.9% (n = 47) received antibiotics before ICI treatment. The most common cancer was ovarian (52.1%, n = 112), followed by cervical (24.7%, n = 53) and endometrial (16.7%, n = 36). When we divided the cohort based on antibiotic use before ICIs, there were no significant differences in the DCR and baseline characteristics between the two groups. On multivariate analyses, the variables associated with poor OS were previous use of antibiotics for a cumulative duration of >14 days (HR 2.286, 95% CI 1.210–4.318; p = 0.011); Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group 2 or 3 (HR 4.677, 95% CI 2.497–8.762; p < 0.001); and chemotherapy-free interval of <6 months (HR 2.007, 95% CI 1.055–3.819; p = 0.034). Conclusion: Prior use of antibiotics for a cumulative duration of >14 days was associated with reduced survival in recurrent gynecologic malignancies.
Recent Progress on Ruthenium-Based Electrocatalysts towards the Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Li Lulu , Tian Fenyang , Qiu Longyu , Wu Fengyu , Yang Weiwei , Yu Yongsheng
Published: December 2023

Hydrogen has emerged as an important candidate for clean energy, owing to its environmentally friendly advantages. Electrolytic hydrogen production stands out as the most promising technology for hydrogen production. Therefore, the design of highly efficient electrocatalysts is significant to drive the application of hydrogen technologies. Platinum (Pt)-based catalysts are famous for their outstanding performance in the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). However, the expensive cost limits its wide application. Ruthenium (Ru)-based catalysts have received extensive attention due to their relatively lower cost and HER performance similar to that of Pt. Nevertheless, the performance of Ru-based catalysts is still unable to meet industrial demands. Therefore, improving HER performance through the modification of Ru-based catalysts remains significant. In this review, the reaction mechanism of HER is analyzed and the latest research progress in the modification of Ru-based electrocatalysts is summarized. From the reaction mechanism perspective, addressing the adsorption of intermediates on the Ru-based electrocatalyst surface, the adsorption–activation of interface water molecules, and the behavior of interface water molecules and proposing solutions to enhance performance of Ru-based electrocatalyst are the main findings, ultimately contributing to promoting their application in the field of electrocatalysis.
Correction: Lee et al. Porous Aerogel Structures as Promising Materials for Photocatalysis, Thermal Insulation Textiles, and Technical Applications: A Review. Catalysts 2023, 13, 1286
Authors: Lee Kang Hoon , Arshad Zafar , Dahshan Alla , Alshareef Mubark , Alsulami Qana A. , Bibi Ayesha , Lee Eui-Jong , Nawaz Muddasir , Zubair Usman , Javid Amjed
Published: December 2023

There was an error in the original publication [...]
Abstinence Restores Cardiac Function in Mice with Established Alcohol-Induced Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Edavettal Joshua M. , Harris Nicholas R. , Cohen Sarah E. , Paloczi Janos , Chandrasekar Bysani , Gardner Jason D.
Published: December 2023

Alcohol-induced cardiomyopathy (ACM) has a poor prognosis with up to a 50% chance of death within four years of diagnosis. There are limited studies investigating the potential of abstinence for promoting repair after alcohol-induced cardiac damage, particularly in a controlled preclinical study design. Here, we developed an exposure protocol that led to significant decreases in cardiac function in C57BL6/J mice within 30 days; dP/dt max decreased in the mice fed alcohol for 30 days (8054 ± 664.5 mmHg/s compared to control mice: 11,188 ± 724.2 mmHg/s, p < 0.01), and the dP/dt min decreased, as well (−7711 ± 561 mmHg/s compared to control mice: −10,147 ± 448.2 mmHg/s, p < 0.01). Quantitative PCR was used to investigate inflammatory and fibrotic biomarkers, while histology was used to depict overt changes in cardiac fibrosis. We observed a complete recovery of function after abstinence (dP/dt max increased from 8054 ± 664 mmHg/s at 30 days to 11,967 ± 449 mmHg/s after abstinence, p < 0.01); further, both inflammatory and fibrotic biomarkers decreased after abstinence. These results lay the groundwork for future investigation of the molecular mechanisms underlying recovery from alcohol-induced damage in the heart.
Aging and Metabolic Reprogramming of Adipose-Derived Stem Cells Affect Molecular Mechanisms Related to Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Holvoet Paul
Published: December 2023

We performed a systematic search of the PubMed database for English-language articles related to the function of adipose-derived stem cells in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases. In preclinical models, adipose-derived stem cells protected arteries and the heart from oxidative stress and inflammation and preserved angiogenesis. However, clinical trials did not reiterate successful treatments with these cells in preclinical models. The low success in patients may be due to aging and metabolic reprogramming associated with the loss of proliferation capacity and increased senescence of stem cells, loss of mitochondrial function, increased oxidative stress and inflammation, and adipogenesis with increased lipid deposition associated with the low potential to induce endothelial cell function and angiogenesis, cardiomyocyte survival, and restore heart function. Then, we identify noncoding RNAs that may be mechanistically related to these dysfunctions of human adipose-derived stem cells. In particular, a decrease in let-7, miR-17-92, miR-21, miR-145, and miR-221 led to the loss of their function with obesity, type 2 diabetes, oxidative stress, and inflammation. An increase in miR-34a, miR-486-5p, and mir-24-3p contributed to the loss of function, with a noteworthy increase in miR-34a with age. In contrast, miR-146a and miR-210 may protect stem cells. However, a systematic analysis of other noncoding RNAs in human adipose-derived stem cells is warranted. Overall, this review gives insight into modes to improve the functionality of human adipose-derived stem cells.
Modeling and Phenotyping Acute and Chronic Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus In Vitro in Rodent Heart and Skeletal Muscle Cells
Authors: Kopp Elena L. , Deussen Daniel N. , Cuomo Raphael , Lorenz Reinhard , Roth David M. , Mahata Sushil K. , Patel Hemal H.
Published: December 2023

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) has a complex pathophysiology which makes modeling the disease difficult. We aimed to develop a novel model for simulating T2D in vitro, including hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, and variably elevated insulin levels targeting muscle cells. We investigated insulin resistance (IR), cellular respiration, mitochondrial morphometry, and the associated function in different T2D-mimicking conditions in rodent skeletal (C2C12) and cardiac (H9C2) myotubes. The physiological controls included 5 mM of glucose with 20 mM of mannitol as osmotic controls. To mimic hyperglycemia, cells were exposed to 25 mM of glucose. Further treatments included insulin, palmitate, or both. After short-term (24 h) or long-term (96 h) exposure, we performed radioactive glucose uptake and mitochondrial function assays. The mitochondrial size and relative frequencies were assessed with morphometric analyses using electron micrographs. C2C12 and H9C2 cells that were treated short- or long-term with insulin and/or palmitate and HG showed IR. C2C12 myotubes exposed to T2D-mimicking conditions showed significantly decreased ATP-linked respiration and spare respiratory capacity and less cytoplasmic area occupied by mitochondria, implying mitochondrial dysfunction. In contrast, the H9C2 myotubes showed elevated ATP-linked and maximal respiration and increased cytoplasmic area occupied by mitochondria, indicating a better adaptation to stress and compensatory lipid oxidation in a T2D environment. Both cell lines displayed elevated fractions of swollen/vacuolated mitochondria after T2D-mimicking treatments. Our stable and reproducible in vitro model of T2D rapidly induced IR, changes in the ATP-linked respiration, shifts in energetic phenotypes, and mitochondrial morphology, which are comparable to the muscles of patients suffering from T2D. Thus, our model should allow for the study of disease mechanisms and potential new targets and allow for the screening of candidate therapeutic compounds.
The Human Placental Amniotic Membrane Mesenchymal-Stromal-Cell-Derived Conditioned Medium Inhibits Growth and Promotes Apoptosis of Human Cholangiocarcinoma Cells In Vitro and In Vivo by Suppressing IL-6/JAK2/STAT3 Signaling
Authors: Jantalika Tanachapa , Manochantr Sirikul , Kheolamai Pakpoom , Tantikanlayaporn Duangrat , Thongsepee Nattaya , Warnnissorn Naree , Saijuntha Weerachai , Pinlaor Somchai , Tantrawatpan Chairat
Published: December 2023

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) have recently been shown to play an important role in the growth and progression of many solid tumors, including cholangiocarcinoma (CCA). The human placental amniotic membrane (hPAM) is one of the most favorable sources of MSCs due to its availability and non-invasive harvesting procedure. However, the role of human placental amniotic membrane mesenchymal stromal cells (hPAMSCs) in the growth and progression of human CCA has not yet been determined. This study investigates the effects of conditioned medium derived from hPAMSCs (PA-CM) on the properties of three human CCA cell lines and explores possible mechanisms of action. Varying concentrations of PA-CM were used to treat CCA cells to determine their effects on the proliferation and apoptosis of CCA cells. The results showed that PA-CM inhibited the proliferation and colony-forming capacity of KKU100, KKU213A, and KKU213B cells. PA-CM also promoted the apoptosis of these CCA cells by causing the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential. Western Blotting confirmed that PA-CM induced CCA cell apoptosis by increasing the levels of the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio, cleaved caspase 3, and cleaved PARP, possibly by inhibiting the IL-6/JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway. Moreover, our in vivo study also confirmed the suppressive effect of hPAMSCs on CCA cells by showing that PA-CM reduced tumor volume in nude mice transplanted with human CCA cells. Taken together, our results demonstrate that PA-CM has potent tumor-suppressive effects on human CCA cells and could potentially be used in combination with chemotherapy to develop a more effective treatment for CCA patients.
Worldwide Variations in Fluoride Content in Beverages for Infants
Authors: Velez-León Eleonor , Pacheco-Quito Edisson-Mauricio , Díaz-Dosque Mario , Tobar-Almache Daniela
Published: December 2023

In situations where breastfeeding is impractical, milk formulas have emerged as the primary choice for infant nutrition. Numerous global studies have scrutinized the fluoride content in these formulas, uncovering fluctuations in fluoride levels directly associated with the method of preparation. This variability poses a potential risk of elevated fluoride concentrations and, consequently, an increased susceptibility to dental fluorosis in infants. The primary objective of this review is to intricately delineate the fluoride content in dairy formulas and emphasize the variability of these values concerning their reconstitution process. The review’s findings reveal that, among the 17 studies assessing fluoride levels in infant formula, milk-based formulas exhibit a range of 0.01–0.92 ppm, with only two studies exceeding 1.30 ppm. Conversely, soy-based formulas demonstrate values ranging from 0.13–1.11 ppm. In conclusion, the observed variability in fluoride levels in infant formulas is ascribed to the choice of the water source employed in the preparation process. This underscores the paramount importance of meticulously adhering to recommendations and guidelines provided by healthcare professionals concerning the utilization of these formulas and their meticulous reconstitution.
Bullying Victimization and Adolescent Depression, Anxiety and Stress: The Mediation of Cognitive Emotion Regulation
Authors: Vacca Mariacarolina , Cerolini Silvia , Zegretti Anna , Zagaria Andrea , Lombardo Caterina
Published: December 2023

Background: Existing research has revealed a robust association between bullying victimization and psychological distress, but less is known about the underlying mechanism of this link. cognitive emotion regulation (CER) strategies could be a potential mediator. The current study examined the role of functional and dysfunctional CER strategies as potential mediators of the association between bullying victimization and depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms among 638 high school students (53.9% boys; Mean age = 15.65, SD = 1.32). Method: Participants completed a series of questionnaires assessing bullying victimization (Olweus Bully/Victim Questionnaire), CER strategies (CERQ-18), and symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress (DASS-21). The indirect relationships between bullying victimization and psychopathological symptoms via functional and dysfunctional CER strategies were tested through structural equation modeling. Results: Dysfunctional CER strategies mediated the impact of bullying victimization on depression, anxiety, and stress. In contrast, bullying victimization did not significantly influence functional CER strategies. Conclusions: The findings provide additional support for the detrimental role of bullying victimization on mental distress, also suggesting that this effect is not only direct, but indirect is well. These results are particularly relevant in light of the absence of mediation by protective factors such as the use of positive emotion regulation strategies.
Preterm-Born Young Women Have Weaker Hand Grip Strength Compared to Their Full-Term-Born Peers
Authors: Bruun Ella , Pätsi Pauli , Leskinen Markku , Björkman Krista , Kulmala Petri , Tulppo Mikko P. , Valkama Marita , Ojaniemi Marja
Published: December 2023

Prematurity has been linked to lower muscular fitness and increased morbidity across the human lifespan. Hand grip strength is widely used as a measure of muscle strength. Previous studies have shown inconsistent results regarding the role of vitamin D in hand grip strength. Here, we investigated hand grip strength and the effects of a yearlong vitamin D supplementation in healthy preterm-born young adults. We recruited 38 young adults born preterm at either ≤32 weeks’ gestation or <34 weeks’ gestation and weighing <1500 g, as well as 39 gender- and age-matched controls, for this study. Anthropometric measurements, hand grip strengths, and vitamin D concentrations were recorded. These investigations were repeated after a yearlong vitamin D supplementation intervention. There was a significant difference in the age- and gender-specific hand grip strength ranks between the preterm- and full-term-born young adults: 57.9% and 30.7%, respectively, were below average (p = 0.009). In the preterm-born group, the females had significantly lower hand grip strengths compared to their full-term-born peers, with a mean difference of −3.46 kg (95% CI: −6.68 to −0.247; p = 0.035). In a linear regression analysis, the preterm-born female adult height was negatively associated with hand grip strength (R2 = 0.24, F (1.43) = 13.61, p < 0.001). The vitamin D concentrations were increased after the supplementation period, with no association with hand grip strength. According to our results, preterm-born young females are at risk for lower muscle strength, independent of their current vitamin D status.
Evaluation of the Potential Seed Dispersal Effectiveness of Malus sieversii (Lebed.) M. Roem. by Cattle
Authors: Bai Shilin , Xu Jiang , Lv Yaya , Shi Xiaojun , Tan Dunyan
Published: December 2023

The success of plant reproduction is highly dependent on effective seed dispersal. This study aimed to evaluate the potential seed dispersal effectiveness of cattle for Malus sieversii. The impact of cattle on the dispersal quantity and dispersal quality of M. sieversii seeds was explored based on camera trapping, GPS tracking, and germination trials. The results showed that, on average, cattle visited M. sieversii trees 477.33 times during a two-month observation period. Out of these visits, 315 were specifically for fruit removal. The fruit removal rate per cattle visit was as high as 96.67%. Additionally, cattle were able to disperse M. sieversii seeds up to a maximum distance of 533.67 m, with an average dispersal distance of 134.62 m. The average distance of cattle movement was recorded as 176.95 m/h, with peak activity observed during 11:00–13:00 and 19:00–21:00. The germination rate of M. sieversii seeds that passed through the digestive tract of cattle was significantly higher than that of control seeds. Finally, the emergence rate and survival rate of seeds dispersed by cattle to forest edges and gaps were significantly higher than those dispersed to understory. These findings suggest that cattle can serve as effective long-distance dispersers of M. sieversii seeds and may play a crucial role in the regeneration and expansion of M. sieversii populations in the Ili Botanical Garden.
Hepatic Portal Venous Gas (HPVG) after Ingestion of Chlorine Bleach: A Transient Phenomenon
Authors: Arico Francesco M. , Buemi Francesco , Pitrone Pietro , Giardina Claudio , Trimarchi Renato , Borruto Flavia , Doria Sarah , Turiaco Cristina , Caloggero Simona
Published: December 2023

We present a case involving a 32-year-old man who ingested chlorine bleach with self-defeating intent. The ingestion of bleach can lead to a wide range of consequences, from mild mucosal burns to severe complications, rarely resulting in death. This case highlights the association between chlorine bleach ingestion and the development of hepatic portal venous gas (HPVG), a radiological finding traditionally thought to carry poor prognoses. The HPVG in this case resolved spontaneously within 24 h with conservative management, indicating its transient nature. The exact pathophysiological mechanisms responsible for HPVG after the ingestion of toxic substances .remain only partially understood. One hypothesis suggests that extensive damage to the gastrointestinal wall caused by caustic agent may allow enteric gas to enter the portal system. While HPVG after toxic ingestion is often transient, its consequences and potential risks should be carefully considered. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is suggested in cases with neurological symptoms. In conclusion, HPVG is not a specific disease but rather a manifestation of various underlying factors, and its development in the context of chlorine bleach ingestion represents an additional insight to its understanding. It can be associated with severe medical conditions, but it is also found in less severe cases that can be managed conservatively.
Active Lumbar Spondylodiscitis on [68Ga]Ga-PSMA-11 PET/CT Mimicking Bone Metastasis
Authors: Rosar Florian , Burgard Caroline , Gargiulo Raffaele , Ezziddin Samer
Published: December 2023

We report a [68Ga]Ga-PSMA-11 positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) scan of a 71-year-old man with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) and concomitant active lumbar spondylodiscitis, both PSMA-positive on a PET/CT scan. This interesting image should advise colleagues to consider spondylodiscitis as a differential diagnosis of PSMA-positive findings in the spine, particularly if intervertebral space and soft tissue are involved.
The Suitability of RNA from Positive SARS-CoV-2 Rapid Antigen Tests for Whole Virus Genome Sequencing and Variant Identification to Maintain Genomic Surveillance
Authors: Cucina Annamaria , Contino Flavia , Brunacci Giuseppina , Orlando Valentina , La Rocca Mario , Indelicato Sergio , Di Gaudio Francesca
Published: December 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic has transformed laboratory management, with a surge in demand for diagnostic tests prompting the adoption of new diagnostic assays and the spread of variant surveillance tools. Rapid antigen tests (RATs) were initially used only for screening and later as suitable infection assessment tools. This study explores the feasibility of sequencing the SARS-CoV-2 genome from the residue of the nasopharyngeal swab extraction buffers of rapid antigen tests (RATs) to identify different COVID-19 lineages and sub-lineages. Methods: Viral RNA was extracted from the residue of the nasopharyngeal swab extraction buffers of RATs and, after a confirmation of positivity through a reaction of RT-PCR, viral genome sequencing was performed. Results: Overall, the quality of the sequences obtained from the RNA extracted from the residue of the nasopharyngeal swab extraction buffers of RATs was adequate and allowed us to identify the SARS-CoV-2 variants’ circulation and distribution in a period when the use of molecular swabs had been drastically reduced. Conclusions: This study demonstrates the potential for genomic surveillance by sequencing SARS-CoV-2 from the residue of the nasopharyngeal swab extraction buffers of RATs, highlighting alternative possibilities for tracking variants.
A Novel Adversarial Detection Method for UAV Vision Systems via Attribution Maps
Authors: Zhang Zhun , Liu Qihe , Wu Chunjiang , Zhou Shijie , Yan Zhangbao
Published: December 2023

With the rapid advancement of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and the Internet of Things (IoTs), UAV-assisted IoTs has become integral in areas such as wildlife monitoring, disaster surveillance, and search and rescue operations. However, recent studies have shown that these systems are vulnerable to adversarial example attacks during data collection and transmission. These attacks subtly alter input data to trick UAV-based deep learning vision systems, significantly compromising the reliability and security of IoTs systems. Consequently, various methods have been developed to identify adversarial examples within model inputs, but they often lack accuracy against complex attacks like C&W and others. Drawing inspiration from model visualization technology, we observed that adversarial perturbations markedly alter the attribution maps of clean examples. This paper introduces a new, effective detection method for UAV vision systems that uses attribution maps created by model visualization techniques. The method differentiates between genuine and adversarial examples by extracting their unique attribution maps and then training a classifier on these maps. Validation experiments on the ImageNet dataset showed that our method achieves an average detection accuracy of 99.58%, surpassing the state-of-the-art methods.
Modified Characteristic Finite Element Method with Second-Order Spatial Accuracy for Solving Convection-Dominated Problem on Surfaces
Authors: Wu Longyuan , Feng Xinlong , He Yinnian
Published: December 2023

We present a modified characteristic finite element method that exhibits second-order spatial accuracy for solving convection–reaction–diffusion equations on surfaces. The temporal direction adopted the backward-Euler method, while the spatial direction employed the surface finite element method. In contrast to regular domains, it is observed that the point in the characteristic direction traverses the surface only once within a brief time. Thus, good approximation of the solution in the characteristic direction holds significant importance for the numerical scheme. In this regard, Taylor expansion is employed to reconstruct the solution beyond the surface in the characteristic direction. The stability of our scheme is then proved. A comparison is carried out with an existing characteristic finite element method based on face mesh. Numerical examples are provided to validate the effectiveness of our proposed method.
Online Language Learning in Participatory Culture: Digital Pedagogy Practices in the Post-Pandemic Era
Authors: Ju-Zaveroni Youkyung , Lee Seryun
Published: December 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic dramatically accelerated the digitalisation of education around the world in a short period of time, which presented a unique opportunity for language teachers and policy makers to reconsider assumptions about language learning in higher education. Against this background, this study examines how digital pedagogy can enhance the experience of language learning in online settings in the post-pandemic era by drawing on a case study of educational activities developed during the pandemic for foreign language modules at a UK university. In particular, this study delves into the different dimensions of participatory culture in relation to digital pedagogy practices for language teaching and learning by adopting an interdisciplinary approach. Ultimately, we argue that online language education should aid students, i.e., the Gen Z cohort, in acquiring and developing digital literacy, or the capacity to communicate effectively by creating a variety of online texts and interreacting and collaborating with other people by means of various digital technologies. Therefore, it has also been argued that language teachers need to play a role as facilitators who can foster interactive, participatory environments to help students to develop student-centred, sustaining learning communities.
Building Vocabulary Bridges: Exploring Pre-Service Primary School Teachers’ Dispositions on L2 Vocabulary Instruction for Emergent Bilinguals through Interactive Book Reading
Authors: Decraene Eline , Vanparys Silke , Montero Perez Maribel , Van Keer Hilde
Published: December 2023

A strong vocabulary is crucial for language acquisition and can profoundly influence academic and societal success. Interactive book reading (IBR) offers an effective approach for vocabulary instruction as it provides a dynamic and engaging word-learning context. However, as children progress from preschool to primary grades, the emphasis on IBR declines, despite the persistent need for comprehensive literacy education, particularly for emergent bilinguals. This study aims to uncover the reasons underlying the diminishing use of IBR and focuses on the dispositions (i.e., knowledge and beliefs) of pre-service teachers regarding L2 vocabulary instruction during IBR with emergent bilinguals. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 36 pre-service teachers in Flanders. Thematic analysis revealed a foundational knowledge base for vocabulary instruction during IBR, with most beliefs aligning with scientific evidence. Nevertheless, some beliefs contradicted research findings, particularly concerning the deliberate use of IBR to achieve specific learning objectives, harnessing students’ home languages and fully realizing IBR’s potential for optimal vocabulary acquisition. Furthermore, preconditions at the class, school, educational policy and parental levels emerged as crucial factors for effectively implementing vocabulary instruction during IBR. These findings serve as pivotal starting points for further refining pre-service teacher education and developing in-service professional development in Flanders.
PLA—A Privacy-Embedded Lightweight and Efficient Automated Breast Cancer Accurate Diagnosis Framework for the Internet of Medical Things
Authors: Yan Chengxiao , Zeng Xiaoyang , Xi Rui , Ahmed Awais , Hou Mengshu , Tunio Muhammad Hanif
Published: December 2023

The Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) can automate breast tumor detection and classification with the potential of artificial intelligence. However, the leakage of sensitive data can cause harm to patients. To address this issue, this study proposed an intrauterine breast cancer diagnosis method, namely “Privacy-Embedded Lightweight and Efficient Automated (PLA)”, for IoMT, which represents an approach that combines privacy-preserving techniques, efficiency, and automation to achieve our goals. Firstly, our model is designed to achieve lightweight classification prediction and global information processing of breast cancer by utilizing an advanced IoMT-friendly ViT backbone. Secondly, PLA protects patients’ privacy by federated learning, taking the classification task of breast cancer as the main task and introducing the texture analysis task of breast cancer images as the auxiliary task to train the model. For our PLA framework, the classification accuracy is 0.953, the recall rate is 0.998 for the best, the F1 value is 0.969, the precision value is 0.988, and the classification time is 61.9 ms. The experimental results show that the PLA model performs better than all of the comparison methods in terms of accuracy, with an improvement of more than 0.5%. Furthermore, our proposed model demonstrates significant advantages over the comparison methods regarding time and memory.
LiDAR Point Clouds Semantic Segmentation in Autonomous Driving Based on Asymmetrical Convolution
Authors: Sun Xiang , Song Shaojing , Miao Zhiqing , Tang Pan , Ai Luxia
Published: December 2023

LiDAR has become a vital sensor for autonomous driving scene understanding. To meet the accuracy and speed of LiDAR point clouds semantic segmentation, an efficient model ACPNet is proposed in this paper. In the feature extraction stage, the backbone is constructed with asymmetric convolutions, so the skeleton of the square convolution kernel is enhanced, which leads to greater robustness to target rotation. Moreover, a contextual feature enhancement module is designed to extract richer contextual features. During training, global scaling and global translation are performed to enrich the diversity of datasets. Compared with the baseline network PolarNet, the mIoU of ACPNet on the SemanticKITTI, SemanticPOSS and nuScenes datasets are improved by 5.1%, 1.6% and 2.9%, respectively. Meanwhile, the speed of ACPNet is 14 FPS, which basically meets the real-time requirements in autonomous driving scenarios. The experimental results show that ACPNet significantly improves the performance of LiDAR point cloud semantic segmentation.
An Efficient Point Cloud Semantic Segmentation Method Based on Bilateral Enhancement and Random Sampling
Authors: Shan Dan , Zhang Yingxuan , Wang Xiaofeng , Luo Wenrui , Meng Xiangdong , Liu Yuhan , Gao Xiang
Published: December 2023

Point cloud semantic segmentation is of utmost importance in practical applications. However, most existing methods have evolved to be incredibly intricate, leading to a rise in complexity that has made them increasingly impractical for real-world utilization. The escalating complexity of these methods has resulted in a deterioration in their efficiency and ease of implementation, making them less suitable for use in time-sensitive and resource-constrained environments. Towards this issue, we propose an efficient and lightweight segmentation method, able to achieve a remarkable performance in terms of both segmentation accuracy, training speed, and space consumption. Specifically, we first propose to adopt random sampling to replace the original one to obtain more efficiency. Moreover, a lightweight decoding module and an improved bilateral enhancement (BAE) module are developed to further improve the performance. The proposed method achieved a 73.6% and 60.7% mIoU on the S3DIS and Semantickitti datasets, respectively. In the future, the random sampling and the proposed BAE module can be adopted in a more concise and lightweight network to achieve faster and more-accurate point cloud segmentation.