bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enabling Complex Impedance Spectroscopy for Cardio-Respiratory Monitoring with Wearable Biosensors: A Case Study
Authors: Mathews R. Joseph , Jovanov Emil
Published: August 2023

Recent advances in commercially available integrated complex impedance spectroscopy controllers have brought rapid increases in the quality of systems available to researchers for wearable and remote patient monitoring applications. As a result, novel sensing methods and electrode configurations are increasingly viable, particularly for low-power embedded sensors and controllers for general electrochemical analysis. This study evaluates a case study of the four electrode locations suitable for wearable monitoring of respiratory and heart activity monitoring using complex impedance spectroscopy. We use tetrapolar electrode configurations with ten stimulation frequencies to characterize the relative differences in measurement sensitivity. Measurements are performed and compared for the magnitude, phase, resistive, and reactive components of the bioimpedance using two COTS-based controllers, the TI AFE4300 and MAX30009. We identify the highest percent relative changes in the magnitude of the impedance corresponding to deep breathing and heart activity across the chest (17% at 64 kHz, 0.5% at 256 kHz, respectively), on the forearm (0.098% at 16 kHz, 0.04% at 8 kHz), wrist-to-wrist across the body (0.28% at 256 kHz, 0.04% at 256 kHz, respectively), and wrist-to-finger across the body (0.35% at 4 kHz, 0.05% at 4 kHz, respectively). We demonstrate that the wrist-to-wrist and wrist-to-finger configurations are most promising and may enable new wearable bioimpedance applications. Additionally, this paper demonstrates that deep respiration and heart activity influence bioimpedance measurements in whole-body measurement configurations, with variations of nearly 1% in measured impedance due to the phase of the breathing cycle.
Performance of Thermal-, Acid-, and Mechanochemical-Activated Montmorillonite for Environmental Protection from Radionuclides U(VI) and Sr(II)
Authors: Kovalchuk Iryna
Published: August 2023

Low-cost sorption materials based on the clay mineral of the smectite group—montmorillonite—were used for the removal of radionuclides uranium (VI) and strontium (II) from contaminated water. A wide range of industrial methods such as thermal treatment, acid activation, and mechanochemical activation were applied. Complex methods, such as SEM microscopy analysis, X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), thermal analysis, and nitrogen adsorption–desorption at −196 °C, were used to assess the characteristics of the structure of the obtained materials. The thermal treatment, acid activation, and mechanochemical activation resulted in changes in the surface properties of the clay minerals: specific surface area, porosity, and distribution of active sites. It was established that the mechanochemical activation of montmorillonite significantly increases the sorption characteristics of the material for U(VI) and Sr(II) and the acid activation of montmorillonite increases it for U(VI). The appropriateness of the experimental adsorption values for U(VI) and Sr(II) on modified montmorillonite to Langmuir and Freundlich models was found. Independently of the changes induced by acid attack, calcinations, or milling, the sorption of U(VI) and Sr(II) ions on treated montmorillonite occurs on a homogeneous surface through monolayer adsorption in a similar fashion to natural montmorillonite. Water purification technologies and modern environmental protection technologies may successfully use the obtained clay-based sorbents.
Preferred Therapy for Patients with Hereditary Angioedema during Pregnancy
Authors: Park Kristen , Yeich Andrew , Craig Timothy
Published: August 2023

Hereditary angioedema (HAE) is a rare, inherited disease caused by a deficiency (HAE-1) or lack of functional (HAE-2) C1 inhibitor protein. The symptoms present with mucocutaneous swelling of various organ systems, such as the respiratory and gastrointestinal systems, which can manifest as stridor and abdominal pain, respectively. HAE can present with increased frequency and severity of attacks during the pregnancy and lactation period. This is thought to be due to hormonal changes, which may trigger HAE attacks. The management of this condition in pregnant and lactating patients can be challenging for providers due to disease rarity and the lack of data regarding the management of this specific population. This review aims to provide insights for HAE management regarding rescue therapy, short-term prophylaxis, and long-term prophylaxis via the consolidation of the current literature and various international consensus guidelines. Furthermore, this review discusses when to initiate treatment and at what frequency and dosing, as well as the possible side effects that may occur as a result of therapy.
Non-Stationary Flood Discharge Frequency Analysis in West Africa
Authors: Bossa Aymar Yaovi , Akpaca Jean de Dieu , Hounkpè Jean , Yira Yacouba , Badou Djigbo Félicien
Published: August 2023

With climate change and intensification of the hydrological cycle, the stationarity of hydrological variables is becoming questionable, requiring appropriate flood assessment models. Frequency analysis is widely used for flood forecasting. This study aims to determine the most suitable models (stationary and non-stationary) for estimating the maximum flows observed at some stations spread across West Africa. A statistical analysis of the annual maximum flows in terms of homogeneity, stationarity, and independence was carried out through the Pettitt, modified Mann–Kendall, and Wald–Wolfowitz tests, respectively, to identify the stations whose flows are non-stationary. After that, the best-correlated climate covariates with the annual maximum flows of the non-stationary stations were determined. The covariates explored are the climatic indices of sea surface temperatures (SST). Finally, different non-stationary GEV models were derived by varying the scale and position parameters of the best-correlated index for each station. The results indicate that 56% of the annual maximum flow series are non-stationary. As per the Bayes information criterion (BIC) values, the performance of the non-stationary models (GEV, generalized extreme values) is largely greater than that of the stationary models. These good performances of non-stationary models using climatic indices open perspectives for the prediction of extreme flows in the study area.
Water Quality Determination Using Soil and Vegetation Communities in the Wetlands of the Andes of Ecuador
Authors: Carrasco Baquero Juan Carlos , Caballero Serrano Verónica Lucía , Romero Cañizares Fernando , Carrasco López Daisy Carolina , León Gualán David Alejandro , Vieira Lanero Rufino , Cobo-Gradín Fernando
Published: August 2023

The bofedales are high Andean ecosystems of great socioeconomic and ecological importance. The Chimborazo Fauna Production Reserve has 15 bofedales in its jurisdiction, located in the provinces of Chimborazo, Bolívar, and Tungurahua. The objective of this study was to establish the relationship between plant species composition and the physicochemical characteristics of water and soil. To determine the floristic composition, destructive sampling of species was applied, and three sampling points of 1 m2 were established every 100 m per wetland. At each sampling point, physical-chemical variables were recorded in situ and in the laboratory for water and soil. The floristic analysis identified 78 riparian species of riparian plants (63 vascular, 12 bryophytes, 4 pteridophytes) and 1 lichen. In the aquatic environment, seven vascular plants, recognized as macrophytes, were recorded. The results show great heterogeneity in the soil, water, and vegetation characters because they respond to a mineralization gradient (as indicated by the high values of electrical conductivity and dissolved ions). Additionally, it was observed that the total amount of soluble solids that characterizes the Los Hieleros wetland (W11) is independent of hardness and chemical oxygen demand, which correlate with each other and, in turn, better describe the Pachancho wetland (W12). The highest degree of turbidity corresponds to the Cóndor Samana (W9) and Portal Andino (W10) wetlands. The Culebrillas (W6), Puente Ayora ANI (W14), and Pampas Salasacas (W1) wetlands are characterized by the presence of dissolved oxygen, so it is assumed that these are the wetlands with the best water quality. Consequently, it is imperative to double efforts to describe the ecology and status of these high Andean wetlands in order to promote their conservation.
Analysis of Structural Parameters of Steel–NC–UHPC Composite Beams
Authors: Zhang Dawei , Ma Xiaogang , Shen Huijie , Guo Songsong , Liu Chao
Published: August 2023

The cracking of the negative moment area of steel–normal concrete (NC) composite bridges is common owning to the low tensile strength of concrete. In order to solve the problem, Ultra High Performance Concrete (UHPC) is used to enhance the tensile performance of the negative moment area. This paper conducted interface experiments to study the bonding behaviour of the UHPC–NC interface. The design parametric analysis of steel–NC–UHPC composite bridges was carried out based on the interface experimental results. Firstly, slant shear tests and flexural shear tests were carried out to study the rationality of the interface handling methods. Then, the finite element model was used to analyze the state of every component in the composite beams based on experimental results, such as the stress of UHPC, concrete and steel plate. Finally, the calculation results of finite analysis were compared and summarized. It is concluded that (1) the chiseling interface can meet the utilization requirements of physical bridges. The average shear stress and flexural tensile strength of the chiseling interface are 10.29 MPa and 1.93 MPa, respectively. In the failure state, a slight interface damage occurs for specimens with a chiseling interface. (2) The influence on overall performance is different for changes in different design parameters. The thickness of concrete has a significant influence on the stress distribution of composite slabs. (3) Reliable interface simulation is conducted in the finite element models based on interface test results. The stress variation patterns are reflected in the change of design parameters.
The Logic of Homophily Dynamics in Heterogeneous Networks: Axiomatization, Model Checking and Validity Checking
Authors: Luo Xiling
Published: August 2023

Social networks have received considerable attention from the modal logic community. In this article, we study and characterize one of the most important principles in the field of social networks. Homophily, which means similarity breeds association, reveals the nature of social organization. In order to be able to express similarity and association together, we generalize the basic network and then define the heterogeneous network. The heterogeneous network is also defined to provide a good foundation for the use of logical approaches. The Logic of Homophily LHG,M that we propose in this article is based on Computation Tree Logic and Formal Concept Analysis. LHG,M describes the homophily dynamics of the heterogeneous networks at a specified similarity coefficient. Furthermore, we not only axiomatize the LHG,M and prove that the axiom system LHG,Mn is sound and complete, but we also prove that the model checking and the validity checking for LHG,M are both PSPACE-complete.
Quality of Life and Working Conditions of Hand Surgeons—A National Survey
Authors: Dietrich Léna G. , Vögelin Esther , Deml Michael J. , Pastor Torsten , Gueorguiev Boyko , Pastor Tatjana
Published: August 2023

Background and Objectives: Providing high-quality care for patients in hand surgery is an everyday endeavor. However, the quality of life (QoL) and working conditions of hand surgeons ensuring these high-quality services need to be investigated. The aim of this study was to evaluate the QoL and working conditions of Swiss hand surgeons. Materials and Methods: A national survey with Swiss hand surgeons was conducted. Standardized questionnaires were completed anonymously online. Core topics included working conditions, QoL, satisfaction with the profession, and aspects of private life. Results: A total of 250 hand surgeons were invited to participate, of which 110 (44.0%) completed the questionnaire. Among all participants, 43.6% stated that they are on call 4–7 days per month, versus 8.2% never being on call. Overall, 84.0% of the residents, 50.0% of the senior physicians, 27.6% of the physicians in leading positions, and 40.6% of the senior consultants/practice owners, as well as 55.1% of the female and 44.3% of the male respondents, felt stressed by their job, even during holidays and leisure time. Out of all participants, 85.4% felt that work affects private relationships negatively. Despite the reported stress, 89.1% would choose hand surgery as a profession again. Less on-call duty (29.1%) and better pay (26.4%) are the most prioritized factors for attractiveness of a position at a hospital. Conclusions: The QoL of Swiss hand surgeons is negatively affected by their workload and working hours. Residents, senior physicians and female surgeons suffer significantly more often from depression, burnout or chronic fatigue in comparison to leading positions, senior consultants/practice owners and male surgeons. Better pay or less on-call duty would make the work more attractive in acute care hospitals.
Differential Association of Glycation Products with Bone Mineral Density and Fat Mass in Healthy and Diabetes Type 2 Subjects from Mexican Southeastern: A Cross Sectional Study
Authors: Ferreyro-Bravo Fernando , Ceballos-Cruz Ángel , Urruchua-Rodríguez Mary Jose , Martínez-Reyes Gabriela , Cortés-Pastrana Carolina , Pacheco-Pantoja Elda Leonor
Published: August 2023

Background: Glycation products have been linked to decreased bone mineral density (BMD) in a number of clinical settings. This study examined the correlation between early glycation products (HbA1c and glycated albumin (ALB-g)) and advanced glycation end products (pentosidine (PTD)) with BMD in two groups of participants: those with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2) and those without diabetes or any other comorbidities (noDM). All of the participants had resided in southeastern Mexico for a minimum of 10 years. Material and Methods: This study included 204 participants: 112 (55%) with DM2 and 92 (45%) healthy subjects. We utilized dual X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) to measure both the total and segment-specific BMD and adipose mass. In addition, the fasting blood glucose, HbA1c, PTD, and ALB-g parameters were measured. Correlation and logistic regression analyses were conducted. Results: There was an inverse correlation between PTD and BMD in all anatomical regions among postmenopausal women (PMW) in the DM2 group, whereas in non-PMW, only the waist-to-height ratio was statistically significant. A negative correlation was observed between HbA1c levels and BMD in the arms and legs of DM2 individuals. However, in the noDM group, a negative correlation was found between HbA1c levels and BMD in the pelvis, while a positive association was observed between HbA1c and indicators of adipose tissue. ALB-g, demonstrated a negative correlation with fat mass. After performing binary logistic regressions, the following odds ratios (OR) for osteopenia/osteoporosis risk were determined: PTD OR 1.1 (p = 0.047) for DM2 PMW, HbA1c OR 1.4 (p = 0.048), and fat mass content OR 1.011 (p = 0.023) for the entire sample. Conclusions: Glycation products are associated with BMD differentially depending on the analyzed anatomical segment, but PTD, HbA1c, and fat mass are significant predictors of low bone mass. In prospective studies, this association could be determined using other techniques involving three-dimensional analysis of bone architecture to evaluate bone architecture.
Investigation into the Role of Long-Non-Coding RNA MIAT in Leukemia
Authors: Ostini Alessia , Mourtada-Maarabouni Mirna
Published: August 2023

Myocardial Infarction Associated Transcript (MIAT) is a nuclear long non-coding RNA (LncRNA) with four different splicing variants. MIAT dysregulation is associated with carcinogenesis, mainly acting as an oncogene regulating cellular growth, invasion, and metastasis. The aim of the current study is to investigate the role of MIAT in the regulation of T and chronic myeloid leukemic cell survival. To this end, MIAT was silenced using MIAT-specific siRNAs in leukemic cell lines, and functional assays were performed thereafter. This investigation also aims to investigate the effects of MIAT silencing on the expression of core genes involved in cancer. Functional studies and gene expression determination confirm that MIAT knockdown not only affects short- and long-term survival and the apoptosis of leukemic cells but also plays a pivotal role in the alteration of key genes involved in cancer, including c-MYC and HIF-1A. Our observations suggest that MIAT could act as an oncogene and it has the potential to be used not only as a reliable biomarker for leukemia, but also be employed for prognostic and therapeutic purposes.
Ado-Mediated Depletion of Taurine Impairs Mitochondrial Respiratory Capacity and Alters the Chromatin Landscape of Inguinal Adipose Tissue
Authors: Tsai Pei-Yin , Shui Bo , Lee Seoyeon , Liu Yang , Qu Yue , Cheng Chloe , Edwards Kaydine , Wong Callie , Meng-Killeen Ryan , Soloway Paul D. , Barrow Joeva J.
Published: August 2023

Non-shivering thermogenesis (NST) has strong potential to combat obesity; however, a safe molecular approach to activate this process has not yet been identified. The sulfur amino acid taurine has the ability to safely activate NST and confer protection against obesity and metabolic disease in both mice and humans, but the mechanism of this action is unknown. In this study, we discover that a suite of taurine biosynthetic enzymes, especially that of cysteamine dioxygenase (ADO), significantly increases in response to β3 adrenergic signaling in inguinal adipose tissue (IWAT) in order to increase intracellular concentrations of taurine. We further show that ADO is critical for thermogenic mitochondrial respiratory function as its ablation in adipocytes significantly reduces taurine levels, which leads to declines in mitochondrial oxygen consumption rates. Finally, we demonstrate via assay for transposase-accessible chromatin with sequencing (ATAC-seq) that taurine supplementation in beige adipocytes has the ability to remodel the chromatin landscape to increase the chromatin accessibility and transcription of genes, such as glucose-6-phosphate isomerase 1 (Gpi1), which are critical for NST. Taken together, our studies highlight a potential mechanism for taurine in the activation of NST that can be leveraged toward the treatment of obesity and metabolic disease.
Selenium, Zinc, and Copper Status of Vegetarians and Vegans in Comparison to Omnivores in the Nutritional Evaluation (NuEva) Study
Authors: Klein Lea , Dawczynski Christine , Schwarz Maria , Maares Maria , Kipp Kristin , Haase Hajo , Kipp Anna P.
Published: August 2023

Plant-based diets usually contain more nutrient-dense foods such as vegetables, legumes, whole grains, and fruits than a standard Western diet. Yet, the amount and especially the bioavailability of several nutrients, such as trace elements, is supposed to be lower in comparison to diets with consumption of animal-derived foods. Based on this, the Nutritional Evaluation (NuEva) study (172 participants) was initiated to compare the trace element status of omnivores, flexitarians, vegetarians, and vegans. Serum selenium, zinc, and copper concentrations and biomarkers were evaluated at baseline and during a 12-month intervention with energy- and nutrient-optimized menu plans. The implementation of optimized menu plans did not substantially influence the status of trace elements. At baseline, serum selenium biomarkers were lower in vegetarians and vegans compared to omnivores and flexitarians. The zinc intake of vegetarians and vegans was significantly lower compared to omnivores, whereas the Phytate Diet Score was increased. Accordingly, total serum zinc concentrations were reduced in vegans which was, however, only significant in women and was further supported by the analysis of free zinc. Regarding copper status, no differences were observed for total serum copper. Overall, we identified selenium and zinc as critical nutrients especially when maintaining a vegan diet.
The Role of Vitamin D in Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Hung Man , Birmingham Wendy C. , Ocampo Monica , Mohajeri Amir
Published: August 2023

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the leading cause of death in the United States. The previous literature demonstrates the importance of vitamin D for overall health, and a significant body of literature has examined the benefits of optimal serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] on cardiovascular health, but the results remain inconclusive. The objective of this study was to determine the association between reported CVD and [25(OH)D]. We utilized the 2015–2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey and included adults aged 20 years and older (n = 9825). CVD was defined as having a stroke, heart attack, heart failure, or coronary heart disease. Vitamin D status was categorized as a serum 25(OH)D deficiency at <30 nmol/L; insufficiency at 30 to 49.9 nmol/L; normal/optimal at 50 to 125 nmol/L; and adequacy at >125 nmol/L. Statistical analysis was performed using Chi-square tests, t-tests were conducted to investigate the differences in participant characteristics among those with CVD and without CVD, and regression models were used to explore the association between vitamin D levels and CVD status. We found 25(OH)D deficiency associated with CVD (Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) = 1.48; 95% CI = 1.11–1.98; p < 0.05). [25(OH)D] insufficiency was also associated with CVD (AOR = 1.28; 95% CI = 1.06–1.54; p < 0.05). The 25(OH)D adequacy was not associated with reported CVD. For the prevention of CVD, healthcare professionals may recommend the use of vitamin D supplementation to improve cardiovascular health in adults while considering individual needs.
Machine Learning-Based Model Helps to Decide which Patients May Benefit from Pancreatoduodenectomy
Authors: Vigia Emanuel , Ramalhete Luís , Filipe Edite , Bicho Luís , Nobre Ana , Mira Paulo , Macedo Maria , Aguiar Catarina , Corado Sofia , Chumbinho Beatriz , Balaia Jorge , Custódio Pedro , Gonçalves João , Marques Hugo P.
Published: August 2023

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma is an invasive tumor with similar incidence and mortality rates. Pancreaticoduodenectomy has morbidity and mortality rates of up to 60% and 5%, respectively. The purpose of our study was to assess preoperative features contributing to unfavorable 1-year survival prognosis. Study Design: Retrospective, single-center study evaluating the impact of preoperative features on short-term survival outcomes in head PDAC patients. Forty-four prior features of 172 patients were tested using different supervised machine learning models. Patient records were randomly divided into training and validation sets (80–20%, respectively), and model performance was assessed by area under curve (AUC) and classification accuracy (CA). Additionally, 33 patients were included as an independent revalidation or holdout dataset group. Results: Eleven relevant features were identified: age, sex, Ca-19-9, jaundice, ERCP with biliary stent, neutrophils, lymphocytes, lymphocyte/neutrophil ratio, neoadjuvant treatment, imaging tumor size, and ASA. Tree regression (tree model) and logistic regression (LR) performed better than the other tested models. The tree model had an AUC = 0.92 and CA = 0.85. LR had an AUC = 0.74 and CA = 0.78, allowing the development of a nomogram based on absolute feature significance. The best performance model was the tree model which allows us to have a decision tree to help clinical decisions. Discussion and conclusions: Based only on preoperative data, it was possible to predict 1-year survival (91.5% vs. 78.1% alive and 70.9% vs. 76.6% deceased for the tree model and LR, respectively). These results contribute to informed decision-making in the selection of which patients with PDAC can benefit from pancreatoduodenectomy. A machine learning algorithm was developed for the recognition of unfavorable 1-year survival prognosis in patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. This will contribute to the identification of patients who would benefit from pancreatoduodenectomy. In our cohort, the tree regression model had an AUC = 0.92 and CA = 0.85, whereas the logistic regression had an AUC = 0.74 and CA = 0.78. To further inform decision-making, a decision tree based on tree regression was developed.
Automated Synthesis of [68Ga]Ga-FAPI-46 on a Scintomics GRP Synthesizer
Authors: Plhak Elisabeth , Pichler Christopher , Dittmann-Schnabel Björn , Gößnitzer Edith , Aigner Reingard M. , Stanzel Susanne , Kvaternik Herbert
Published: August 2023

[68Ga]Ga-FAPI-46 is a radiolabelled fibroblast activation protein inhibitor that selectively binds to fibroblast activation protein (FAP), which is overexpressed by cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in the tumour microenvironment. In recent years, radiolabelled FAP inhibitors (FAPIs) are becoming increasingly important in cancer diagnostics and also for targeted radionuclide therapy. Because of the increasing demand for radiolabelled FAPIs, automating the synthesis of these compounds is of great interest. In this work, we present a newly programmed automatic synthesis process of [68Ga]Ga-FAPI-46 on a Scintomics GRP module using two Galli Ad generators as a radionuclide source. Dedicated cassettes for the labelling of 68Ga-peptides were used without any modifications. The generators were connected via a three-way valve to the module and eluted automatically over a strong cation exchange (SCX) cartridge by using the vacuum pump of the synthesis module, eliminating the need to transfer the eluates into a separate vial. After a reaction step in HEPES buffer, the compound was purified by solid-phase extraction (SPE) over a Sep-Pak Light C18 cartridge. The evaluation of 10 routine syntheses of [68Ga]Ga-FAPI-46 resulted in a radiochemical yield of 72.6 ± 4.9%. The radiochemical purity was 97.6 ± 0.3%, and the amount of free gallium-68 and colloid was <2%. The final product fulfilled the quality criteria, which were adapted from relevant monographs of the European Pharmacopoeia (Ph. Eur.). This work presents the successful preparation of multiple doses of [68Ga]Ga-FAPI-46 in a GMP-compliant automated process for clinical use.
A Comparative Pharmacokinetic Study of Fexuprazan 10 mg: Demonstrating Bioequivalence with the Reference Formulation and Evaluating Steady State
Authors: Shin Wonsuk , Yang A-Young , Park Hyung , Lee Hyejung , Yoo Hyounggyoon , Kim Anhye
Published: August 2023

Fexuprazan is a potassium-competitive acid blocker approved for treating gastric-acid-related diseases. Although the effectiveness of the recent formulation fexuprazan 10 mg has been demonstrated in Phase 3 clinical trials, data on the pharmacokinetics (PKs) of administering fexuprazan 10 mg twice daily at a 12 h interval are lacking. Moreover, it is imperative to ensure the bioequivalence of the new formulation with the previously approved 40 mg formulation. This study evaluated the pharmacokinetics (PKs) of the single- and multiple-dose oral administration of fexuprazan 10 mg tablets in healthy participants (Part 1) and investigated their bioequivalence with 40 mg tablets (Part 2). Part 1 comprised a single- and multiple-dose, one-sequence, two-period design and eight participants, while Part 2 comprised a single-dose, 2 × 2 crossover design and 24 participants. In Part 1, in Periods 1 and 2, participants received single and multiple doses (twice daily) of fexuprazan 10 mg, respectively. The maximum plasma concentration (Cmax) area under the concentration–time curve from 0 to 12 h (AUC0–12h) of the multiple-dose participants was approximately double that of the single-dose participants. In Part 2, the geometric mean ratios (90% confidence intervals) for Cmax and AUC from zero to the time of the last quantifiable concentration (AUClast) of the use of four fexuprazan 10 mg tablets to those of one fexuprazan 40 mg tablet were 1.0290 (0.9352–1.1321) and 1.0290 (0.9476–1.1174), respectively, meeting the bioequivalence criteria. Favorable PKs were observed after single and multiple administrations of one fexuprazan 10 mg tablet, and four fexuprazan 10 mg tablets were pharmacokinetically equivalent to one fexuprazan 40 mg tablet.
The Importance of Uncertainty Analysis and Traceable Measurements in Routine Quantitative 90Y-PET Molecular Radiotherapy: A Multicenter Experience
Authors: D’Arienzo Marco , Mezzenga Emilio , Capotosti Amedeo , Bagni Oreste , Filippi Luca , Capogni Marco , Indovina Luca , Sarnelli Anna
Published: August 2023

Molecular Radiation Therapy (MRT) is a valid therapeutic option for a wide range of malignancies, such as neuroendocrine tumors and liver cancers. In its practice, it is generally acknowledged that there is a need to evaluate the influence of different factors affecting the accuracy of dose estimates and to define the actions necessary to maintain treatment uncertainties at acceptable levels. The present study addresses the problem of uncertainty propagation in 90Y-PET quantification. We assessed the quantitative accuracy in reference conditions of three PET scanners (namely, Siemens Biograph mCT, Siemens Biograph mCT flow, and GE Discovery DST) available at three different Italian Nuclear Medicine centers. Specific aspects of uncertainty within the quantification chain have been addressed, including the uncertainty in the calibration procedure. A framework based on the Guide to the Expression of Uncertainty in Measurement (GUM) approach is proposed for modeling the uncertainty in the quantification processes, and ultimately, an estimation of the uncertainty achievable in clinical conditions is reported.
Rehabilitation Outcome Measures in Patients with Spinal Stenosis: A Literary Review
Authors: Ciardi Gianluca , Lamberti Gianfranco , Casati Vittorio , Paris Elena
Published: August 2023

Background: Lumbar spinal stenosis causes considerable disability in everyday life; its incidence is increasing due to aging in the world population. First-line treatment is generally conservative, but rehabilitation outcome is still unclear; the aim of this systematic review was to define which domains need to be evaluated for the lumbar stenosis physiotherapy approach, further specifying if the literature suggests patient-centred or objective measures. Methods: A systematic review of the literature according to the PRISMA statement was carried out; the PICO model was used to draw research questions. RCTs about the rehabilitation of lumbar spinal stenosis conducted in the last five years were considered includible, with no difference in terms of stenosis location. The following databases were screened through specific search strings: PubMed, EBSCO, PEDro, Cochrane Database, Scopus, and Google Scholar; two independent researchers assessed results and a third opinion was requested to solve conflicts. Critical appraisal of the included studies was conducted through Pedro Jadad scores. The following data were extracted: author and year, country, sample, intervention, outcome domains, and tools. Results: From 10,069 records, three RCTs were included in the final review stage; they all showed high methodological quality. It is recommended for physiotherapists dealing with lumbar spinal stenosis to assess five main domains: disability, pain, clinical tests, mental wellbeing and kynesiophobia, and quality of life. Domains were mainly assessed through self-reported questionnaires/scales, while objective tests evaluate general lower limb movements, the active range of motion, or the muscles’ endurance. Conclusion: This five-domain evaluation model is reliable and can be practised in each rehabilitation setting (home, outpatient, and hospital); sustainability is guaranteed by the prevalent employment of self-reported tools. Future studies should evaluate the best questionnaire/scale for each domain, especially the definition of a gold standard for pain assessment in patients with lumbar stenosis as this is a challenge for the future.
Biomimetic Engineering Preparation of High Mechanical and Flame Retardant Elastomers by Introducing Sacrificial Bonds in Covalently Cross-Linked Chloroprene Rubber
Authors: Jiang Jianliang , Zhai Junxue , Zhang Yiqun , Feng Yakai
Published: August 2023

Designing and preparing chloroprene rubber (CR) with robust mechanical and excellent flame retardancy performance are challenging. In this work, a biomimetic design for high mechanical and flame-retardant CR by synchronous introducing of sacrificial bond (disulfide) crosslinked networks into the chemically crosslinked network is developed based on two new types of vulcanization reactions. Under the catalysis of Mg(OH)2, the dynamic bond cross-linked network is formed by the reaction between the amino group of cystamine dihydrochloride (CA) and the allylic chlorine group of CR, while the covalently crosslinked network is synchronously formed by two types of nucleophilic substitution reactions in series between Mg(OH)2  and CR. The disulfide bonds serve as sacrificial bonds that preferentially rupture prior to the covalent network, dissipating energy and facilitating rubber chain orientation, so a CA-0.5 sample (CR/CA(0.5 wt%)/Mg(OH)2 (10 wt%) with dual crosslinked networks exhibits excellent mechanical performance, and the tensile strength and elongation at the break of CA-0.5 are 1.41 times and 1.17 times greater than those of the CR-0 sample with covalently crosslinked networks, respectively. Moreover, the addition of Mg(OH)2 significantly improves the flame retardancy of CR.
Biomechanical Analysis of Recreational Cycling with Unilateral Transtibial Prostheses
Authors: Seratiuk Flores Heloísa , Yeoh Wen Liang , Loh Ping Yeap , Morinaga Kosuke , Muraki Satoshi
Published: August 2023

Leg prostheses specially adapted for cycling in patients with transtibial amputation can be advantageous for recreational practice; however, their required features are not fully understood. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the efficiency of unilateral cycling with a transtibial prosthesis and the characteristics of different attachment positions (middle and tip of the foot) between the prosthetic foot and the pedal. The cycling practice was performed on an ergometer at 40 W and 60 W resistance levels while participants (n = 8) wore custom-made orthoses to simulate prosthesis conditions. Using surface electromyogram, motion tracking, and power meter pedals, biomechanical data were evaluated and compared with data obtained through regular cycling. The results showed that power delivery became more asymmetrical at lower workloads for both orthosis conditions, while hip flexion and muscle activity of the knee extensor muscles in the sound leg increased. While both pedal attachment positions showed altered hip and knee joint angles for the leg wearing the orthosis, the middle of the foot attachment presented more symmetric power delivery. In conclusion, the middle of the foot attachment position presented better symmetry between the intact and amputated limbs during cycling performed for rehabilitation or recreation.
The Effects of Interbody Device Design and Placement on Lumbar Lordosis and Disc Height in Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion
Authors: Wellington Ian J. , Kaufman Caroline R. , Antonacci Christopher L. , Coskun Ergin , Cote Mark P. , Singh Hardeep , Mallozzi Scott S. , Moss Isaac L.
Published: August 2023

There are a wide variety of interbody devices available for use in transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF). While traditionally these interbodies are bullet-shaped, crescent-shaped cages have become increasingly common. There is a paucity of literature comparing the effect of cage geometry with substratification for surgical approach (minimally invasive (MIS) vs. open). The aim of this study was to determine the effect of implant geometry, positioning, and surgical approach on the correction of different spinal alignment parameters in patients undergoing TLIF. A retrospective chart and imaging review was performed on 103 patients with a total of 131 instrumented segments performed by a single surgeon. Preoperative, initial postoperative, and final postoperative standing lateral lumbar radiographs were evaluated for lumbar lordosis (LL), segmental lordosis (SL), anterior disc height (ADH), and posterior disc height (PDH). Anterior-posterior implant positioning was recorded for initial and final postoperative radiographs. These measurements were compared among four groups: open bullet (OB), MIS bullet (MB), open crescent (OC), and MIS crescent (MC). SL increased in all groups by a mean of 2.9° at initial imaging and 2.2° at final imaging. The OC group had greater initial improvement in SL compared to the MB group (p = 0.02), though this effect was lost at final follow-up (p = 0.11). The OB and OC groups conferred greater initial improvement in ADH (p = 0.02; p = 0.04), while the OC group had greater final improvement in ADH compared to the MB and MC groups (p = 0.01; p = 0.01). The OC group had less initial improvement in PDH compared with the other groups (p = 0.03, p = 0.02, p < 0.01). The MB group provided greater final improvement in PDH compared with the MC and OC groups (p = 0.04, p = 0.01). Cage geometry, surgical approach, and implant position all demonstrated a statistically significant but clinically minor impact on segmental alignment for TLIF procedures.
Might Beauty Bolster the Moral Argument for God?
Authors: Baggett David
Published: August 2023

John Hare argues that Kant, in his Third Critique, offers an aesthetic argument for God’s existence that shares premises with his famous moral argument. Karl Ameriks demurs, expressing skepticism that this is so. In this paper, I stake out an intermediate position, arguing that the resources of Kant provide ingredients for an aesthetic argument, but one distinctly less than a transcendental argument for God or an entailment relation. Whether the argument is best thought of as abductive in nature, a C-inductive argument, or a Pascalian natural sign, prospects for its formulation are strong. And such an argument, for its resonances with the moral argument(s), can work well in tandem with it (them), a fact not surprising at all if Kant was right that beauty—in accordance with an ancient Greek tradition—exists in close organic relation to the good. More generally, along the way, I argue that the sea change in Kant’s studies over the last decade or so should help us see that Kant is an ally, rather than foe, to aesthetic theodicists.
The Impact of Environmental Management on Labour Productivity
Authors: Nugent Anton , Radicic Dragana
Published: August 2023

The green transition and green economic growth are policy priorities in the European Union. In this context, this study estimates the effects of environmental management on firm performance, in particular labour productivity. There is currently a lack of empirical evidence on this topic, although it is of great importance due to the increasing need for environmental practices across the globe. Therefore, to address this gap, we explore the relationship between several environmental variables on labour productivity, through the use of cross-sectional firm-level data. These data were obtained using the sixth wave of the Business Environment and Enterprise Survey (BEEPS VI). This study focuses on ten EU countries. The results obtained from the empirical analysis reveal that firms who employ an environmental manager and firms that are subject to energy taxes or levies both have higher productivity than those who do not; thus, firms that have employed or are subject to certain environmental practices reap the benefits of higher labour productivity. Furthermore, firms that use renewable energy have higher labour productivity than those that do not. Therefore, the results obtained allowed us to draw implications for both policy makers and managers.
Assessing the Efficiency of Green Absorbent in Treating Nutrients and Heavy Metal in Wastewater
Authors: Chow Ming Fai , Bahruddin Ainun Syakirah , Chua Kok Hua
Published: August 2023

This study is aimed to determine the performances of zeolite-water hyacinth ash (WHA)-clay (ZWC) pellets on removing nutrients (nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P)) and heavy metal (HM). In this study, the adsorption experiments were conducted for various pellet compositions and sizes, the application of pre-treatment on pellets, and tested with different concentrations of synthetic wastewater. The results identified that the maximum removal capacities of ZWC pellet were 0.112 mg/g, 0.08 mg/g, 0.171 mg/g, and 0.151 mg/g for phosphate (PO4), total phosphorus (TP), nitrate-nitrogen (NO3), and total nitrogen (TN), respectively. The optimization experiment indicated that smaller pellet sizes and those treated with calcium hydroxide solution exhibited better N&P and HM removal performances. The optimized ZWC pellet was able to remove up to 90%, 86%, 94%, 90%, 84%, 86%, and 91% for PO4, TP, NO3, TN, zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), and lead (Pb), respectively, after 3 h of contact time. The ZWC pellet proved that it can be used as an effective adsorbent for wastewater treatment.
Promoting Residents’ Willingness to Recycle Electronic ICT Waste in China: An Empirical Study Using Conjoint Analysis
Authors: Wang Jianling , Wang Chenying , Chen Yi
Published: August 2023

Initiated by the Chinese government to mitigate pollution arising from informal recycling, the Internet + Recycling model has been evolving and yielding significant results in China over the past few years. However, due to the large amount of users’ personal information contained in electronic information and communication technology waste, residents are concerned about privacy leaks, leading to a lower willingness to recycle. This study aims to enhance people’s willingness to recycle electronic waste by testing the impacts of various factors through a nationwide survey and analysis. Prior research evaluated e-waste collection attributes separately, thus provoking potential validity concerns. Addressing this concern, our study, based on 184 valid entries, employs conjoint analysis to determine the effects of different attributes on residential recycling choices. Among the considered attributes, recycling trust emerged as paramount, followed by compensation methods, recycling price, and recycling methods. The high-utility attributes included government certification and monitoring, cashback, high prices, and door-to-door service. Transcending the core research aim, our study forecasts market shares for diverse recycling combinations. The results indicate that there is no single dominant strategy, as several combinations are substantially influential. Consequently, businesses are advised to adopt a multi-pronged approach using diverse combinations for optimal results.
Accelerating Electricity Generation and Cr (VI) Removal Using Anatase–Biochar-Modified Cathode Microbial Fuel Cells
Authors: Cui Xinglan , Miao Qingdong , Shi Xinyue , Zheng Peng , Li Hongxia
Published: August 2023

Microbial fuel cells (MFC) have considerable potential in the field of energy production and pollutant treatment. However, a low power generation performance remains a significant bottleneck for MFCs. Biochar and anatase are anticipated to emerge as novel cathode catalytic materials due to their distinctive physicochemical properties and functional group architectures. In this study, biochar was utilized as a support for an anatase cathode to investigate the enhancement of the MFC power generation performance and its environmental impact. The results of the SEM and XPS experiments showed that the biochar-supported anatase composites were successfully prepared. Using the new cathode catalyst, the maximum current density and power density of the MFC reached 164 mA/m2 and 10.34 W/m2, respectively, which increased by 133% and 265% compared to a graphite cathode (70.51 mA/m2 and 2.83 W/m2). The degradation efficiency of Cr (VI) was 3.1 times higher in the biochar-supported anatase MFC than in the graphite cathode. The concentration and pH gradient experiments revealed that the degradation efficiency of Cr (VI) was 97.05% at an initial concentration of 10 mg/L, whereas a pH value of two resulted in a degradation efficiency of 94.275%. The biochar-supported anatase composites avoided anatase agglomeration and provided more active sites, thus accelerating the cathode electron transfer. In this study, natural anatase and biochar were ingeniously combined to fabricate a green and efficient electrode catalyst, offering a novel approach for the preparation of high-performance positive catalysts as well as a sustainable, economical, and environmentally friendly method for Cr (VI) removal in aqueous solutions.
Machine Learning Approaches for Streamflow Modeling in the Godavari Basin with CMIP6 Dataset
Authors: Saravanan Subbarayan , Reddy Nagireddy Masthan , Pham Quoc Bao , Alodah Abdullah , Abdo Hazem Ghassan , Almohamad Hussein , Al Dughairi Ahmed Abdullah
Published: August 2023

Accurate streamflow modeling is crucial for effective water resource management. This study used five machine learning models (support vector regressor (SVR), random forest (RF), M5-pruned model (M5P), multilayer perceptron (MLP), and linear regression (LR)) to simulate one-day-ahead streamflow in the Pranhita subbasin (Godavari basin), India, from 1993 to 2014. Input parameters were selected using correlation and pairwise correlation attribution evaluation methods, incorporating a two-day lag of streamflow, maximum and minimum temperatures, and various precipitation datasets (including Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), EC-Earth3, EC-Earth3-Veg, MIROC6, MRI-ESM2-0, and GFDL-ESM4). Bias-corrected Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6 (CMIP6) datasets were utilized in the modeling process. Model performance was evaluated using Pearson correlation (R), Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE), root mean square error (RMSE), and coefficient of determination (R2). IMD outperformed all CMIP6 datasets in streamflow modeling, while RF demonstrated the best performance among the developed models for both CMIP6 and IMD datasets. During the training phase, RF exhibited NSE, R, R2, and RMSE values of 0.95, 0.979, 0.937, and 30.805 m3/s, respectively, using IMD gridded precipitation as input. In the testing phase, the corresponding values were 0.681, 0.91, 0.828, and 41.237 m3/s. The results highlight the significance of advanced machine learning models in streamflow modeling applications, providing valuable insights for water resource management and decision making.