bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Xanthone Derivatives for Potential Use in Topical Treatment of Telangiectasia and Rosacea
Authors: Brezdeń Katarzyna , Waszkielewicz Anna M.
Published: March 2024

Xanthone derivatives, a class of natural compounds abundantly found in plants such as mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana) and certain herbs, have garnered substantial interest due to their diverse pharmacological properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer activities. Recent investigations have unveiled their potential as modulators of enzymatic activity, prompting exploration into their effects on hyaluronidase-mediated HA degradation, and their effects in topical treatment of telangiectasia and rosacea. Telangiectasia and rosacea are common dermatological conditions characterized by chronic skin inflammation, vascular abnormalities, and visible blood vessels, resulting in significant cosmetic concerns and impaired quality of life for affected individuals. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current understanding regarding the interplay between mechanisms of action by which xanthone derivatives exert their therapeutic effects, including the inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines, modulation of oxidative stress pathways, and regulation of vascular endothelial growth factors. Furthermore, we will discuss the implications of harnessing xanthone derivatives as therapeutic agents for mitigating vascular dysfunction and its associated pathologies, thereby offering insights into future research directions and therapeutic strategies in the field of vascular biology.
Advancements in Analytical Protocols for Organoleptic and Nutraceutical Fingerprinting of Craft Beer
Authors: Carabetta Sonia , Di Sanzo Rosa , Andronaco Pietro , Canino Francesco , Branyik Tomas , Salafia Fabio , Fuda Salvatore , Muscolo Adele , Russo Mariateresa
Published: March 2024

This study outlines the development of an innovative method utilizing UHPLC-PDA for the simultaneous identification of polyphenols and bitter acids (alpha-acids, beta-acids, and iso-alpha-acids) in beer samples. The resulting chemical profiles were leveraged to distinguish the characteristics of four bergamot-flavored beers, each representing distinct styles (IPA, Lager, Blanche, and ALE), produced on a pilot-scale plant. In a streamlined 29-minute analysis, twenty-nine polyphenols and fourteen bitter acids were successfully identified under optimized separation conditions. Rigorous validation, encompassing parameters such as Limit of Detection (LOD), Limit of Quantification (LOQ), R-squared (R2), repeatability, and reproducibility, was conducted for polyphenol quantification using constructed calibration curves with seven levels. Exploring polyphenolic components as potential discriminators among different beer styles, a total of thirty-two polyphenolic compounds were identified and quantified, including characteristic bergamot peel polyphenols like neoeriocitrin, naringin, and neohesperidin. The determination of bitter units and total phenols further aided in style differentiation. Multivariate analysis provided additional insights into variations among specific beer styles, revealing discrepancies in the presence or relative concentrations of specific compounds linked to brewing ingredients and processes. This research enhances to trace the fingerprinting of the chemistry governing beer quality through a straightforward and cost-effective analytical approach, readily applicable in common laboratories.
Should the Choice of BOIN Design Parameter p.tox only Depend on the Target DLT Rate?
Authors: Lu Rong
Published: March 2024

IMPORTANCE: On December 10, 2021, the FDA published a Determination Letter, along with a Statistical Review and Evaluation Report, and concluded that under the non-informative prior, the local Bayesian optimal interval design (BOIN) design, in its revised form, can be designated fit-for-purpose for identifying the maximum tolerated dose of a new drug, assuming that dose-toxicity relationship is monotonically increasing. Although setting the BOIN design parameter p.tox = 1.4 * target.DLT.rate is recommended in almost all BOIN methodology articles and is the default value in the R package BOIN, it's unclear if the choice of p.tox should only depend on the target DLT rate and if certain range of p.tox could produce the same BOIN boundary table. DESIGN: In this simulation study, following parameters were varied one at a time, using R package BOIN, to explore their effects on the equivalence intervals of p.saf and p.tox: 1) target DLT rate, 2) n.earlystop, 3) cutoff.eli, 4) cohortsize, and 5) ncohort. And a simple 3+3 design was used as an example to explore equivalent sets of BOIN design parameters that can generate the same boundary table. RESULTS: When the early stopping parameter n.earlystop is relatively small or the cohortsize value is not optimized via simulation, it might be better to use p.tox < 1.4 * target.DLT.rate, or try out different cohort sizes, or increase n.earlystop, whichever is both feasible and provides better operating characteristics. This is because if the cohortsize was not optimized via simulation, even when n.earlystop = 12 and cohortsize > 3, the BOIN escalation/de-escalation rules generated using p.tox = 1.4 * target.DLT.rate could be exactly the same as those calculated using p.tox > 3 * target.DLT.rate, which might not be acceptable for some pediatric trials targeting 10% DLT rate. The traditional 3+3 design stops the dose finding process when 3 patients have been treated at the current dose level, 0 DLT has been observed, and the next higher dose has already been eliminated. If additional 3 patients were required to be treated at the current dose in the situation described above, the decision rules of this commonly used 3+3 design could be generated using BOIN design with target DLT rates ranging from 18% to 29%, p.saf ranging from 8% to 26%, and different p.tox values ranging from 39% to 99%. These BOIN parameters also need to satisfy a set of conditions. Meaning: This study demonstrates the importance of interpreting BOIN design parameter p.tox as an interval of toxicity rates that are considered too toxic, rather than one prespecified value that corresponds to the lowest toxicity probability that is deemed overly toxic. When designing a dose-finding trial using BOIN, it is important to perform simulation studies to identify equivalent sets of BOIN design parameters that can generate the same boundary table so that we can better compare the safety properties of different boundary tables.
Venous Thromboembolism Chemical Prophylaxis in Patients Undergoing Shoulder Arthroscopy
Authors: Budin Jacob S. , Ramos Tolulope , Segel Kalli , Rumps Mia V. , Mulcahey Mary K.
Published: March 2024

» Venous thromboembolism (VTE) after shoulder arthroscopy is rare (0.01%-0.38%) but impacts a significant number of patients because of the high procedure volume.

» Studies found no significant benefit in reducing VTE risk with aspirin or low-molecular-weight heparins.

» Current guidelines for thromboprophylaxis in shoulder arthroscopy lack consensus and need patient-specific considerations.

» Further research is required to develop evidence-based thromboprophylaxis guidelines for shoulder arthroscopy.
Enabling Personalized Medicine in Orthopaedic Surgery Through Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Huffman Nickelas , Pasqualini Ignacio , Khan Shujaa T. , Klika Alison K. , Deren Matthew E. , Jin Yuxuan , Kunze Kyle N. , Piuzzi Nicolas S.
Published: March 2024

» The application of artificial intelligence (AI) in the field of orthopaedic surgery holds potential for revolutionizing health care delivery across 3 crucial domains: (I) personalized prediction of clinical outcomes and adverse events, which may optimize patient selection, surgical planning, and enhance patient safety and outcomes; (II) diagnostic automated and semiautomated imaging analyses, which may reduce time burden and facilitate precise and timely diagnoses; and (III) forecasting of resource utilization, which may reduce health care costs and increase value for patients and institutions.

» Computer vision is one of the most highly studied areas of AI within orthopaedics, with applications pertaining to fracture classification, identification of the manufacturer and model of prosthetic implants, and surveillance of prosthesis loosening and failure.

» Prognostic applications of AI within orthopaedics include identifying patients who will likely benefit from a specified treatment, predicting prosthetic implant size, postoperative length of stay, discharge disposition, and surgical complications. Not only may these applications be beneficial to patients but also to institutions and payors because they may inform potential cost expenditure, improve overall hospital efficiency, and help anticipate resource utilization.

» AI infrastructure development requires institutional financial commitment and a team of clinicians and data scientists with expertise in AI that can complement skill sets and knowledge. Once a team is established and a goal is determined, teams (1) obtain, curate, and label data; (2) establish a reference standard; (3) develop an AI model; (4) evaluate the performance of the AI model; (5) externally validate the model, and (6) reinforce, improve, and evaluate the model's performance until clinical implementation is possible.

» Understanding the implications of AI in orthopaedics may eventually lead to wide-ranging improvements in patient care. However, AI, while holding tremendous promise, is not without methodological and ethical limitations that are essential to address. First, it is important to ensure external validity of programs before their use in a clinical setting. Investigators should maintain high quality data records and registry surveillance, exercise caution when evaluating others' reported AI applications, and increase transparency of the methodological conduct of current models to improve external validity and avoid propagating bias. By addressing these challenges and responsibly embracing the potential of AI, the medical field may eventually be able to harness its power to improve patient care and outcomes.
Islamization: A Sociological Approach
Authors: Rahman Mohammad Musyfiqur
Published: March 2024

"Islamisation: A Sociological Approach" intricately explores the processes of cultivating an Islamic society. It delves into the interplay between individual and systemic transformations, aligning with Islamic doctrines. The meticulous examination includes integrating Islamic principles into societal frameworks, exploring social psychology, human soul cognition, schema control, behavioral modifications, community dynamics, and emotional management. The discourse spans foundational Islamisation aspects to constructing persuasive models, emphasizing the need for narratives resonating across the Islamic realm. The treatise addresses fostering uniformity in Islamic governance, focusing on human motivation, informational conformity, and aligning Islamic values with modern technologies. Contemplating the future trajectory, it juxtaposes scientific advancements with philosophical reflections, acknowledging challenges posed by conflicting secular liberal ideologies. The text highlights social media and educational initiatives' pivotal roles in nurturing close-knit Muslim community relationships. In conclusion, it underscores the necessity of managing cognitive schemas and mitigating extreme psychological reactance in Islamic societies, advocating for a harmonious blend of punitive measures and core Islamic values, contributing significantly to the discourse on contemporary Islamisation.
Physics-Informed Neural Network for CH4/CO2 Adsorption Characterization
Authors: Wang Hai , Chen Shengnan , Wang Muming , Wu Zhengbin , Hui Gang
Published: March 2024

This study addresses the critical need for accurate characterization of methane (CH4) and carbon dioxide (CO2) adsorption behavior in shale formations, pivotal for optimizing hydrocarbon extraction and advancing carbon neutrality goals. The research introduces a novel approach utilizing Physics-Informed Neural Networks (PINNs) to predict adsorption isotherms across diverse shale cores, integrating Langmuir adsorption theory into a data-driven model. By collecting a limited core dataset and leveraging automatic differentiation techniques, the PINN systematically incorporates physics knowledge into neural networks, compensating for data scarcity and enhancing predictive robustness. The method is validated through statistical analysis, feature selection, and cross-validation, demonstrating its superior performance compared to conventional Machine Learning (ML) models like Random Forest, with a 4.75% improvement in R2 for model performance. Overall, this approach represents a valuable tool for optimizing hydrocarbon recovery, offering insights into competitive adsorption phenomena and paving the way for more efficient and environmentally friendly extraction techniques in complex subsurface environments.
Feasibility assessment of real-time surface-guided intrafraction radiotherapy for prostate cancer without immobilization
Authors: Liu Xiaochao , Li Jia , Gao Hongxiang
Published: March 2024

Background Real-time position movement management in the intrafraction of radiotherapy has become a focus of precision radiotherapy. Real-time surface-guided radiotherapy by optical surface monitoring system (OSMS) has been widely used in multiple tumours, but its application in the intrafraction of radiotherapy for prostate cancer without immobilization is rarely reported. Methods Five patients of prostate cancer without immobilization were enrolled in this study. During 165 fractions of radiotherapy, cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) was used to verify the set-up position before radiotherapy and correct the 6 degrees of freedom (6-DOF) errors. The 6-DOF real-time mean intrafractional motion was monitored by OSMS in the intrafraction of radiotherapy with thresholds of ± 3mm and ± 1°, and Post-treatment verified by the CBCT(V-CBCT). Spss22.0 statistical software was used to test the data of OSMS and VCBCT, P < 0.05 was statistically significant. Results The set-up errors by CBCT were Lat (1.78 ± 1.15) mm, Lng (3.24 ± 1.37) mm, Vrt (2.72 ± 1.49) mm, Rtn (0.56 ± 0.43) °, Roll (0.31 ± 0.32) °, Pitch (0.32 ± 0.39) °. OSMS monitoring intrafraction real-time position movement mean errors were Lat (0.52 ± 0.53) mm, Lng (0.76 ± 0.49) mm, Vrt (1.02 ± 0.71) mm, Rtn (0.27 ± 0.24) °, Roll (0.31 ± 0.32) °, Pitch (0.58 ± 0.43) °. Post-treatment CBCT verification errors were Lat (0.56 ± 0.57) mm, Lng (0.82 ± 0.54) mm, Vrt (1.01 ± 0.58) mm, Rtn (0.27 ± 0.19) °, Roll (0.32 ± 0.36) °, Pitch (0.60 ± 0.45) °. There was no significant difference between intrafraction OSMS real-time position movement mean error and after CBCT verification error (p > 0.05). Conclusions The OSMS is an accurate tool for real-time position movement management in prostate cancer radiotherapy without immobilization.
A Deep Learning Based Detection Algorithm for Anomalous Behaviour and Anomalous Item on Buses
Authors: Liu Shida , Li Qingyi , Ren Ye , Ji Honghai , Wang Li
Published: March 2024

This paper proposes a new strategy for analysing and detecting abnormal passenger behaviour and abnormal objects on buses. First, a library of abnormal passenger behaviours and objects on buses is established. Then, a new mask detection and abnormal object detection and analysis (MD-AODA) algorithm is proposed. The proposed algorithm is based on the deep learning YOLOv5 (You Only Look Once) algorithm. For onboard face mask detection, a strategy based on the combination of onboard face detection and target tracking is used. To detect abnormal objects in the vehicle, a geometric scale conversion-based approach for recognizing large-size ab-normal objects is adopted. To apply the algorithm effectively to real bus data, an embedded video analysis system is designed. The system incorporates the proposed method, which results in improved accuracy and timeliness in detecting anomalies compared to existing approaches. The algorithm's effectiveness and applicability is verified through comprehensive experiments using actual video bus data. The experimental results affirm the validity and practicality of the pro-posed algorithm.
Relationships between cardiopulmonary function and dangerous cardiovascular factors in Chinese adults: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Liu Yun-qing , Zhi-jian Wu , Bao-hu Li , Kun Tang , Jia-han He , Xiao-yuan Ma , Li-qiang Su , Xiao-ming Yu , Fang-hui Li
Published: March 2024

Background
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a risk factor for mortality. Cardiopulmonary function (CRF) is a modifiable CVD risk factor, and low CRF levels are associated with an elevated CVD risk. However, few comprehensive explorations of the relationship between CRF and cardiometabolic health in CVD exist. Therefore, this study investigated the relationships between CVD risk factors and CRF.
Methods
In this cross-sectional study, CRF was measured using the peak oxygen uptake (i.e., peak VO2) and a cardiopulmonary exercise test. The participants were also assessed for body composition, blood glucose-related markers, blood lipid-related markers, blood pressure, and cardiovascular markers. Participants’ self-reported data on cigarette/snuff use and alcohol consumption were collected using a questionnaire. A multiple linear regression analysis was used to explore the cross-sectional correlations between CVD risk factors and CRF, controlling for covariates.
Results
Six hundred and fifty participants were included; the average age was 42 years (interquartile range: 35–51 years old), and the average CRF was 21.5 mL/kg/min. CRF was significantly and positively associated with body mass index (β = 0.149, p < 0.001), body fat percentage (β = 0.248, p < 0.001), waist circumference (β = 0.498, p < 0.001), hip circumference (β = 0.285, p < 0.001), waist-to-hip ratio (β = 0.02, p < 0.001), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (β = 0.005, p < 0.05). Significant negative correlations were observed between CRF and fasting blood glucose (β = − 0.023, p < 0.05), creatinine content (β = − 0.322, p < 0.05), C-reactive protein (β = − 0.026, p < 0.05), and lipid accumulation product (β = − 0.8824, p < 0.05). CRF was not related to glycosylated hemoglobin content, blood pressure, vascular markers, total cholesterol, triglycerides, or low-density lipoprotein cholesterol.
Conclusions
CRF was associated with several CVD risk factors, suggesting that improving CRF will benefit individuals by reducing the risk of CVD. CRF can be improved via exercise interventions.
Sandstone provenance and diagenesis as tools for the definition of lithostratigraphic units
Authors: Acebrón Laura González , Campos-Soto Sonia , Benito María Isabel , Quijada Emma , Suarez-Gonzalez Pablo
Published: March 2024

This study analyzes the provenance and diagenesis of the Upper Jurassic-Lower Cretaceous sandstone deposits of the NW South-Iberian Basin (Teruel and Valencia provinces, SE Spain) in order to understand the controls on their field appearance (color and friability), which conditioned the definition of formal lithostratigraphic units. Specifically, analyzed sandstone belongs to the Kimmeridgian-Tithonian Villar del Arzobispo Fm, a mixed carbonate-siliciclastic unit deposited in coastal, fluvial, deltaic and aeolian sedimentary environments. This unit was redefined by Campos-Soto et al. (2019), who included, at its uppermost part, the essentially siliciclastic, very friable and whitish deposits that were traditionally assigned to the Barremian El Collado Fm, because these authors demonstrated their Kimmeridgian-Tithonian age. Provenance study has included point-counting and K-feldspar and tourmaline analyzes. Sandstones are mainly arkoses, which have similar framework composition all along the studied sedimentary record. The absence of plagioclases in all samples indicates strong chemical weathering in source areas, which is characteristic of warm and wet climatic conditions. The source areas were mostly peraluminic granites, probably from the Central Iberian Zone (Iberian Massif), located more than 200 km away to the NW of the study area, and Paleozoic quartzites, slates and schists from the Iberian Massif plus sedimentary rocks from nearby areas. The lower and middle-upper parts of the Villar del Arzobispo Fm have sedimentary carbonate rock fragments, which produced pervasive carbonate precipitation during diagenesis, generating their competent field appearance. However, the uppermost part of this formation, traditionally assigned to the El Collado Fm, has very low carbonate rock fragments and large amount of kaolinite epimatrixes, which generated its whitish and friable appearance. Thus, the color and friability of the sandstone deposits were mainly controlled by diagenetic processes and not by changes in source areas, advising the consideration of diagenetic processes when defining sandstone stratigraphic units.
Osteocalcin and Chinese visceral adiposity index are associated with the risk of ASCVD and arterial stiffness in patients with T2DM
Authors: Gong Caixia , Chen Chongyang , Zhao Yangting , Wang Yawen , Li Kai , Lv Xiaoyu , Gao Jie , Zhao Pingping , Fu Songbo , Liu Jingfang
Published: March 2024

This study aims to discover the association between serum osteocalcin, the Chinese visceral adiposity index (CVAI), and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk, and their impact on arterial stiffness in T2DM patients. We included 646 T2DM patients aged 18 and older who received the assessment of ASCVD risk using the China-PAR equation, Osteocalcin and arterial stiffness in this cross-sectional study. We found that osteocalcin and CVAI as independent risk factors for both medium-high-risk ASCVD (osteocalcin: men, OR,0.958, 95%CI 0.923, 0.99, women, OR, 0.788, 95%CI 0.645, 0.96, respectively)(CVAI: men, OR,1.010, 95%CI 1.00, 1.02, women, OR,1.084, 95%CI 1.00, 1.17, respectively) and arterial stiffness (osteocalcin: men, OR, 0.958, 95%CI 0.92, 1.00, women, OR, 0.925, 95%CI 0.86, 0.99, respectively)(CVAI: men, OR,1.011, 95%CI 1.003, 1.02, women, OR,1.0217, 95%CI 1.00, 1.03, respectively) in both men and women patients with T2DM. Combining osteocalcin levels and CVAI improved the prediction accuracy of arterial stiffness in men patients with T2DM (difference of AUC (Model 4 vs. Model 1):1.4%). All P-values were < 0.05. The results suggested that osteocalcin levels and CVAI are independent risk factors for ASCVD risk and arterial stiffness in T2DM. Combining osteocalcin and CVAI can enhance the early detection of atherosclerosis through male patients with T2DM.
Beach resilience to storm-induced erosion: a machine learning-driven approach to identify key morphometrics to recovery
Authors: Thilakarathne Salika , Suzuki Takayuki , Mäll Martin , Banno Masayuki
Published: March 2024

In the context of ongoing discussions about climate change, the focus on beach resilience has gained significant attention in contemporary studies. However, a comprehensive understanding of beach resilience, particularly in the short term, remains limited. This study utilizes a dataset of 104 storm events in Hasaki beach, located on the East coast of Japan, to investigate the 10-day beach recovery. The study considers four types of distinct beach profile patterns based on sandbar formations. Employing XGBoost and the SHAP explanation method, the influence of morphometric indicators on beach resilience were explored. Resilient beach profiles are anticipated to exhibit rapid recovery following erosional storm events. The results reveal that morphometrics play a crucial role in determining the short-term, 10-day, recovery of beaches, with specific morphometric features demonstrating pronounced effects based on profile patterns. The study contributes to the current knowledge of post-storm beach recovery and provides insights that could inform discussions on beach resilience.
Inclusion at Ukrainian universities: a view from the inside
Authors: Tsybuliak Natalia , Mytsyk Hanna , Suchikova Yana , Lopatina Hanna , Popova Anastasia , Hurenko Olha , Hrynkevych Olha
Published: March 2024

This study investigates the state of inclusivity in Ukrainian universities, focusing on the perceptions of university staff amid the country's ongoing sociopolitical transformations. By consulting 820 staff members from various professional roles, including academic, management, and support positions, this research explored inclusivity through diverse lenses, encompassing work experience, interactions with students with disabilities, and self-identification with vulnerable groups. The majority of respondents assessed a moderate to high level of inclusivity, indicating a positive overall outlook on inclusive practices within these institutions. Notably, perceptions of inclusivity vary slightly across different professional roles, with academic staff expressing a marginally lower level of perceived inclusivity than their counterparts. However, these variations are not statistically significant, suggesting a broadly uniform perception across staff categories. Furthermore, the study revealed that personal experience in working with students with disabilities does not substantially alter staff perceptions of inclusivity. Similarly, self-identification with vulnerable groups only marginally influences these perceptions. This suggests that while individual experiences and identities are factors in inclusivity perceptions, their impact is not profoundly different. This research contributes to the understanding of inclusivity in higher education, particularly within environments undergoing significant social and political changes.
Wear fault diagnosis in hydro-turbine via the incorporation of the IWSO algorithm optimized CNN-LSTM neural network
Authors: Dao Fang , Zeng Yun , Zou Yidong , Qian Jing
Published: March 2024

Diagnosing hydro-turbine wear fault is crucial for the safe and stable operation of hydropower units. A hydro-turbine wear fault diagnosis method based on improved WT (wavelet threshold algorithm) preprocessing combined with IWSO (improved white shark optimizer) optimized CNN-LSTM (convolutional neural network-long-short term memory) is proposed. The improved WT algorithm is utilized for denoising the preprocessing of the original signals. The CNN-LSTM hydro-turbine wear fault diagnosis model is constructed. Aiming at the problem that the WSO algorithm quickly falls into local optimum and premature convergence, tent chaotic mapping is used to initialize the population and birds flock search behavior. The cosine elite variation strategy is introduced to improve convergence speed and accuracy. Hyperparameter tuning of CNN-LSTM model based on IWSO algorithm. The experimental results show that the accuracy of the proposed method reaches 96.2%, which is 8.9% higher than that of the IWSO-CNN-LSTM model without denoising. The study also found that the diagnostic accuracy of hydro-turbine wear faults increased with increasing sediment concentration in the water. This study can supplement the existing hydro-turbine condition monitoring and fault diagnosis system. Meanwhile, diagnosing wear faults in hydro-turbines can improve power generation efficiency and quality and minimize resource consumption.
Research on product conceptual design scheme configurations from a designer-user conflict perspective
Authors: Pan Sizhe , Shao Hongyu , Song Yufei , Li Quanfu
Published: March 2024

In the context of rapid product iteration, design conflicts arise from discrepancies in designers' understanding of user needs influenced by subjective preferences, behavioural stances, and other factors. This paper proposes a product conceptual design approach based on the design conflict perspective. First, user comments and design documents are collected. Natural language processing (NLP) methods, including cleaning, filtering, lexical segmentation, feature clustering, and sentiment analysis, are employed to identify design themes. The intuitionistic fuzzy sets (IFS) and term frequency-inverse document frequency (TF-IDF) algorithms are then utilized to obtain evaluation matrices for the products from both users and designers. Subsequently, design conflicts between users and designers are calculated, and an optimal configuration for product conceptual design is determined through regression analysis and planning methods. Finally, the proposed method is validated using a mobile phone as a product example, and suggestions for product improvement are presented. The results indicate that considering design conflicts as a factor in product design and synthesizing designer and user product concepts enhances the accuracy and reliability of product conceptual design generation. The findings of this study offer new insights into the conceptual design configuration for product iteration.
Validation of the Extended e-Health Literacy Scale: Structural validity, Construct validity and Measurement Invariance across Age, Gender, and Education
Authors: Petrič Gregor , Atanasova Sara
Published: March 2024

Background
Given the rapid proliferation and use of online health resources, many of which may be of dubious quality, there is an increasing need to develop e-health literacy skills among the population of internet users. E-health literacy encompasses the skills and abilities needed to access, understand, validate, evaluate, interpret, and apply online health-related information. Measuring e-health literacy has become crucial for developing targeted interventions, assessing their impact, and producing high-quality research findings that can inform health policy and practice. The measurement tools need to be valid and reliable so that decisions are based on high-quality data. In this regard, the issue of the measurement equivalence of scales across different demographic groups has been neglected. This is critical, as assessments should be valid across different sociodemographic groups to avoid bias when comparing them. The authors of this study aimed to revise and validate the Extended e-health literacy scale (eHEALS-E); assess its structural, discriminant, and convergent validity; and examine its measurement equivalence across gender, age, and education.
Methods
The data were collected as a part of a national health literacy survey conducted by the Slovenian National Institute of Public Health. Based on a nationally representative sample, the final sample for the analysis comprised 1,944 individuals who at least occasionally used one of the various internet services to obtain health-related information. Multiple group confirmatory factor analysis was used to examine the measurement invariance of the scale.
Results
With some adjustments, the measurement model of the revised 6-dimensional eHEALS-E scale demonstrated a good fit to the data (χ2 = 2508, df = 282, RMSEA = 0.064, SRMR = 0.070, CFI = 0.90). The scale had good internal consistency (alpha = .89). Although evidence of the scale’s convergent and discriminant validity was partially provided, the analysis revealed robust measurement invariance across sociodemographic groups.
Conclusions
With a minor limitation, the instrument ensures an unbiased e-health literacy assessment across different social groups, which is crucial for interventions that aim to reduce health-related social inequalities. This ensures that the interventions derived from the assessment of reality are equally valid and effective for everyone, regardless of their sociodemographic background.
Pan-Arctic Methanesulfonic Acid Aerosol: Source regions, atmospheric drivers, and future projections
Authors: Pernov Jakob Boyd , Harris Eliza , Volpi Michele , Baumgartner Tamara , Hohermuth Benjamin , Henne Stephan , Aeberhard William H. , Becagli Silvia , Quinn Patricia K. , Traversi Rita , Upchurch Lucia M. , Schmale Julia
Published: March 2024

Natural aerosols are an important, yet understudied, part of the Arctic climate system. Natural marine biogenic aerosol components (e.g., methanesulfonic acid, MSA) are becoming increasingly important due to changing environmental conditions. In this study, we combine in situ aerosol observations with atmospheric transport modeling and meteorological reanalysis data in a data-driven framework with the aim to (1) identify the seasonal cycles and source regions of MSA, (2) elucidate the relationships between MSA and atmospheric variables, and (3) project the response of MSA based on trends extrapolated from reanalysis variables and determine which variables are contributing to these projected changes.
We have identified the main source areas of MSA to be the Atlantic and Pacific sectors of the Arctic. Using gradient-boosted trees, we were able to explain 84 % of the variance and find that the most important variables for MSA are indirectly related to either the gas- or aqueous-phase oxidation of dimethyl sulfide (DMS): shortwave and longwave downwelling radiation, temperature, and low cloud cover. We project MSA to undergo a seasonal shift, with non-monotonic decreases in April/May and increases in June-September, over the next 50 years. Different variables in different months are driving these changes, highlighting the complexity of influences on this natural aerosol component. Although the response of MSA due to changing oceanic variables (sea surface temperature, DMS emissions, and sea ice) and precipitation remains to be seen, here we are able to show that MSA will likely undergo a seasonal shift solely due to changes in atmospheric variables.
Twist2 contributes to skin regeneration and hair follicle formation in mouse fetuses
Authors: Takaya Kento , Sunohara Ayano , Sakai Shigeki , Aramaki-Hattori Noriko , Okabe Keisuke , Kishi Kazuo
Published: March 2024

Unlike adult mammalian wounds, early embryonic mouse skin wounds completely regenerate and heal without scars. Analysis of the underlying molecular mechanism will provide insights into scarless wound healing. Twist2 is an important regulator of hair follicle formation and biological patterning; however, whether it plays a role in skin or skin appendage regeneration remains unclear. We aimed to elucidate Twist2 expression and role in fetal wound healing. ICR mouse fetuses were surgically wounded at embryonic days 13 (E13), E15, and E17, and Twist2 expression in tissue samples from these fetuses was evaluated via in situ hybridization, immunohistochemical staining, and reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Twist2 was upregulated in the dermis of E13 wound margins but downregulated in E15 and E17 wounds. Twist2 knockdown at E13 left visible marks at the wound site, inhibited regeneration, and resulted in defective follicle formation. Twist2-knockdown dermal fibroblasts lacked the ability to undifferentiate. Furthermore, twist2 hetero knockout mice (Twist+/-) formed visible scars, even at E13, where all skin structures, including texture, should regenerate. Thus, Twist2 expression correlated with skin texture formation and hair follicle defects in late mouse embryos. These findings may help develop a therapeutic strategy to reduce scarring and promote hair follicle regeneration.
A Multi-marker Genomic Approach to Decipher the Divergence and Diversity in Selected Allium sativum L. cultivars
Authors: Lekshmi Narayana Chellaiya Johnson Packia , Mahamuni Duraisamy , Brindha Johnson Raja , Rajesh Ramasamy
Published: March 2024

The genus Allium comprises plants of significant economic and medical importance, including onion, garlic, and leek plants. The genetic diversity of garlic plants (Allium sativum) is vital for improving agricultural practices, developing resilient crops, preserving genetic resources, and exploring the full range of culinary and medicinal potential within this important plant species. In this research, we investigated the results of genetic barcoding, focusing on the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region; four distinct barcoding regions, matK, rbcL, and trnH-psbA; and the trnL and Inter Simple Sequence Repeats (ISSR) regions of Allium sativum L. (Amaryllidaceae), which were collected from three diverse cultivation sites. Our findings revealed significant interspecific diversity and intraspecific divergence among the three cultivars examined. Interestingly, the results from different genetic markers were consistent, with BDUT 1451 and 1452 consistently grouping together, while BDUT 1450 diverged. These findings emphasize the effectiveness of the multi-marker approach for exploring intricate genetic landscapes. Furthermore, they highlight the importance of genetic studies in understanding the diversity of breeding and the potential utility of this economically and medicinally important nutraceutical crop.
The Efficacy of L-glutamine in Osteoarthritis:a comparative analysis with celecoxib and glucosamine sulfate.
Authors: Cheng Wendan , Hu Zhongyao , Wang Changming , wang chen , He Junyan , Yan Yiqun , xu Zelin , yu Yangmang , Zhang Chun , Yu Haoran , Jing Juehua , Yu Ya , Cheng Huan , Liu Lei , Tang Miao
Published: March 2024

Objective: to explore the therapeutic efficacy of L-glutamine (L-Gln) in osteoarthritis(OA), and compare with glucosamine sulfate (GS), and celecoxib (CXB).
Methods: Male SD rats were administered sodium chloride, L-Gln, GS, or CXB via gavage for eight weeks starting in the fifth week after operation. Then the severity of knee OA in rats was evaluated by serological analysis, histological examination and imaging examination. Patients with mild OA were administered L-Gln, GS, or CXB orally for 12 weeks in accordance with the randomization principle. Efficacy end points were the change from baseline to week 24 in the pain and physical function subscale scores of the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities OA Index (WOMAC), and Lequesne score.
Results: The treatment with L-Gln and two other drugs alleviated the increased concentration of serum cartilage degradation markers, cartilage destruction, osteophyte formation, and loss of subchondral bone mass caused by OA in rats. During follow-up, the WOMAC pain and physical function subscale scores and Lequesne score of all three groups of patients decreased from baseline and exceeded the minimum clinical difference. The results indicate that the therapeutic effect of L-Gln is comparable to the other two drugs, and in some indicators, it may even be superior to them.
Conclusion: Our research indicates that L-Gln is comparable to GS and CXB in improving the pathological progression and clinical efficacy of OA. However, L-Gln has a lower occurrence of gastrointestinal adverse reactions and effectively alleviates knee joint pain in OA patients who are unresponsive to NSAIDs and GS. This makes it a promising drug for the treatment of osteoarthritis.
Improving the Function of Thrombosed Aortic Bioprosthetic Valves through Anticoagulation
Authors: Inagaki Masahiro , Ozoe Satoki , Koyama Yutaka , Tomita Shinji
Published: March 2024

Hypoattenuated leaflet thickening (HALT), a potential aftereffect of both surgical and transcatheter bioprosthetic aortic valve procedures, may affect valve performance and clinical outcomes. Here, we describe an elderly patient who, underwent surgical aortic valve replacement with a bioprosthetic valve for aortic stenosis (SAVR), was hospitalized due to heart failure, and complained of worsening dyspnea. The patient’s echocardiography showed an elevated pressure gradient in the aortic valve, while CT revealed HALT on the right coronary cusp of the aortic bioprosthetic valve. Following the diagnosis of a thrombosed bioprosthetic valve, anticoagulation therapy with Coumadin was initiated. The patient's dyspnea symptoms improved, and echocardiography revealed a decreased pressure gradient in the aortic valve three months after starting anticoagulation therapy. This case highlights the significance of considering anticoagulation as the primary treatment option for patients with HALT of a bioprosthetic aortic valve.
External beam radiation therapy versus radical prostatectomy for high-risk prostate cancer: protocol of the RECOVER study
Authors: Starre Caroline M. van der , Bangma Chris H. , Bijlsma Maarten J. , Bergh Alfons C.M. van den , Kiemeney Lambertus A.L.M. , Kievit Wietske , Vos Kees , Somford Diederik M. , Wildeman Sally M. , Aben Katja K.H. , Jong Igle J. , Pos Floris J. , Heesterman Berdine L.
Published: March 2024

Background: This paper describes the rationale and design of the RECOVER study. Currently, there is no consensus regarding the optimal treatment for high-risk, non-metastatic prostate cancer (PCa). The study primarily aims to evaluate and compare the impact of treatment with robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RP) versus external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) with androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) for men with high-risk, non-metastatic PCa regarding health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and functional outcomes. Secondary objectives are progression-free survival (PFS), distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS), costs and cost-effectiveness.
Methods: The RECOVER study is a comparative effectiveness study that prospectively includes newly diagnosed high-risk (cT3a-bN0M0, ISUP-grade ≥ 4 and/or PSA >20 ng/mL), non-metastatic PCa patients. Four Dutch prostate cancer networks, comprising 28 hospitals, are currently participating in the study. Patient reported outcomes are collected before treatment initiation, 12 months and 36 months after treatment initiation and include the EORTC-QLQ-C30, the EPIC-26, an adapted version of the SCQ, an adapted version of the iMTA Productivity Cost Questionnaire and several specific questions regarding patient characteristics, treatment of PCa specific complaints and health resources used. Clinical data regarding patient-, tumor- and treatment characteristics and oncological outcomes are collected up to 5 years after diagnosis. For sufficient power, patient reported outcomes of 471 patients must be collected 36 months after treatment initiation. Descriptive statistics and mixed-effects models are used to assess differences in HRQoL and functional outcomes over time between the patients treated with radical prostatectomy versus EBRT (+ ADT). Inverse probability of treatment weighting or the g-formula are used to adjust for confounding covariates associated with treatment. Secondary endpoints PFS and DMFS are evaluated using a competing risk analysis and cost-utility and budget-impact analyses will be performed to determine cost and cost-effectiveness.
Discussion: An observational prospective design was chosen since a randomized controlled trial comparing surgery and radiotherapy was not deemed feasible. This study evaluates effectiveness of treatment in a routine clinical setting (with adjustment for confounding) and its findings will enhance patients’ and healthcare professionals’ awareness for the impact of both treatment modalities on (long-term) daily functioning and HRQoL and aid treatment decision making.
Trial registration: This study is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05931419).
Primary outcomes from Partner2Lose: A randomized controlled trial to evaluate partner involvement on long-term weight loss
Authors: Voils Corrine , Shaw Ryan , Gavin Kara , Hetzel Scott , Lewis Megan , Pabich Samantha , Johnson Heather , Elwert Felix , Mao Lu , Gray Kristen , Yuroff Alice , Garza Katya , Yancy William , Porter Laura
Published: March 2024

Background: Partner support is associated with better weight loss outcomes in observational studies, but randomized trials show mixed results for including partners. Unclear is whether teaching communication skills to couples will improve weight loss in index participants.
Purpose: To compare the efficacy of a partner-assisted intervention versus participant-only weight management program on long-term weight loss.
Methods: This community-based study took place in Madison, WI. Index participants were eligible if they met obesity guideline criteria to receive weight loss counseling, were aged 74 years or younger, lived with a partner, and had no medical contraindications to weight loss; partners were aged 74 years or younger and not underweight. Couples were randomized 1:1 to a partner-assisted or participant-only intervention. Index participants in both arms received an evidence-based weight management program. In the partner-assisted arm, partners attended half of the intervention sessions, and couples were trained in communication skills. The primary outcome was index participant weight at 24 months, assessed by masked personnel; secondary outcomes were 24-month self-reported caloric intake and average daily steps assessed by an activity tracker. General linear mixed models were used to compare group differences in these outcomes following intent-to-treat principles.
Results: Among couples assigned to partner-assisted (n=115) or participant-only intervention (n=116), most index participants identified as female (67%) and non-Hispanic White (87%). Average baseline age was 47.27 years (SD 11.51 years) and weight was 106.55 kg (SD 19.41 kg). The estimated mean 24-month weight loss was similar in the partner-assisted (2.66 kg) and participant-only arms (2.89 kg) (estimated mean difference, 0.23 kg [95% CI, -1.58, 2.04 kg]). There were no differences in 24-month average daily caloric intake (50 cal [95% CI: -233, 132 cal]) or steps (806 steps [95% CI: -1675, 64 steps]). The percentage of participants reporting an adverse event with at least possible attribution to the intervention did not differ by arm (partner-assisted: 9%, participant-only, 3%, p=0.11).
Conclusions: Partner-assisted and individual weight management interventions led to similar outcomes in index participants.
Trial registration: Clinicaltrials.gov NCT03801174
Can the reduction of institutional transaction costs help private enterprises move towards "Specialization, Refinement, Differential, and Innovation"?
Authors: Li Hui , Yu dongsheng
Published: March 2024

Can the reduction of institutional transaction costs help private enterprises move towards "Specialization, Refinement, Differential, and Innovation"(SRDI)? This article takes the lead in clearly defining the generation and essence of institutional transaction costs, and scientifically constructs an institutional transaction cost index. Using the matching data of private listed enterprises and institutional transaction costs from 2003 to 2020, the GMM method is used to empirically analyze the impact of institutional transaction costs on the "Specialization, Refinement, Differential, and Innovation" of private enterprises. The research findings are as follows: (1) Institutional transaction costs in China have shown an overall downward trend during the sample inspection period, with a decrease of 23.91%. There are also differences in the levels among different regions, with the lowest in the eastern region and the highest in the western region. (2) The reduction of institutional transaction costs is conducive to the growth of total factor productivity and the improvement of innovation level in private enterprises, which helps them move towards "Specialization, Refinement, Differential, and Innovation". This supportive effect is mainly achieved through the "factor allocation effect" and "market competition effect" of enterprise entry. (3) The promotion effect of reducing institutional transaction costs on the Specialization, Refinement, Differential, and Innovation of private enterprises is more evident in enterprises in the eastern region and those with high financing constraints. The research conclusion of this article has important implications for reducing institutional transaction costs, helping private enterprises move towards "Specialization, Refinement, Differential, and Innovation", and building an innovative country.