bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Psychological and Physical Violence towards Children and Adolescents before and during the COVID-19 Pandemic in the Lodz Voivodship
Authors: Grzejszczak Jagoda , Gabryelska Agata , Kotlicka-Antczak Magdalena , Strzelecki Dominik
Published: December 2023

Background: It has been shown that the course of COVID-19 infection in the under-18 population was in many cases sparsely symptomatic. In contrast, the impact of the pandemic on the psychological state is quite different. The risk of psychopathological symptoms in children and adolescents increased and the course of already present psychiatric disorders has often been exacerbated. Objectives: Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of psychological and physical violence among children and adolescents and its change during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as to investigate various factors that might affect violence. Methods: In this survey study, 782 responses were included, with 480 collected during the second and 302 during the fourth wave of COVID-19. In this cross-sectional study, an anonymous questionnaire was used to collect demographic data, medical history, mental state, psychopathological symptoms, as well as the presence of psychological, physical violence, and suicidal self-harm behaviors before (retrospectively) and during the COVID-19 pandemic in the under-18 population of the Lodz Voivodship. The survey was prepared using Google Forms. Results: A decrease in the prevalence of physical violence during both waves of the pandemic has been observed (6.39% vs. 3.45%; p < 0.001), with only a similar trend present for psychological violence 16.75% vs. 14.71%; p = 0.081). No difference between physical and psychological violence was present in different pandemic waves, type of flat or house individuals lived in, availability of one’s room, number of people living in the house, number of siblings, and type of school classes (p > 0.050). Older children (>15 years old) were more likely to be victims of psychological violence before and during the pandemic (both p < 0.001). A statistically significant model was obtained for psychological violence before (p < 0.001, R2 = 0.011) and during the pandemic (p = 0.007, R2 = 0.032). Risk factors for psychological violence before the pandemic included male gender (B = 0.531, p = 0.009, OR = 1.700), older age (B = 0.869, p = 0.001, OR = 2.385), and smaller city size (B = −0.187, p = 0.004, OR = 0.829), while for psychological violence during the pandemic, the risk factors were only male gender (B = 0.482, p = 0.022, OR = 1.620) and older age (B = 0.555, p = 0.046, OR = 1.742). No statistically significant models were created for physical violence (p > 0.050). Conclusions: The observed decrease in physical violence during the COVID-19 pandemic suggests that in the studied group, home environment was not the main source of physical violence. Yet, we did not find any predicting factors for this form of violence. Violence, both physical and psychological, is a dangerous phenomenon in the under-18 population both in the pre-pandemic period and in crisis situations such as the pandemic.
The Relationship between Language and Technology: How Screen Time Affects Language Development in Early Life—A Systematic Review
Authors: Massaroni Valentina , Delle Donne Valentina , Marra Camillo , Arcangeli Valentina , Chieffo Daniela Pia Rosaria
Published: December 2023

Screen time refers to the amount of time a child is exposed to a screen, that is, television, computer, smartphone, or any other digital medium. Prolonged screen time in the first years of life may affect a child’s cognitive abilities, especially language acquisition. A systematic review was conducted, following the PRISMA-P guidelines, with the aim to explore the available literature relating to the impact of screen time on children’s language development. This review identified 18 articles. The articles reviewed showed that prolonged screen time and exposure to screens in the first 2 years of life can negatively affect language development and communication skills, in terms of comprehension and vocabulary range. In addition, overexposure to screens in the early years can affect overall cognitive development, especially attention to environmental stimuli, social experiences, problem solving, and communication with others, e.g., the alternance of rhythms and roles in a conversation. In conclusion, our systematic review supports the idea that preschool screen time has negative effects on children’s cognitive and language development. Television seems to be the medium most detrimental to children’s skills, as it is used in a passive manner and is often characterised by language and content that do not suit the child’s processing mode. Future studies should increasingly focus on the digital media that children possess at an early age, such as mobile phones and tablets, and on how children relate to the online world, such as social networks.
Experimental Study on Static Wind Uplift Resistance of Roofing Systems
Authors: Cheng Laixiu , Cheng Junfeng
Published: December 2023

Metal roof systems were widely utilized in various important buildings; however, cases of wind damage were often observed. In this paper, wind uplift tests of standing seam aluminum magnesium manganese and continuous welded stainless-steel roof systems were conducted, and the wind resistance bearing capacity and mechanical properties of key joints in the two roof systems were compared and analyzed. Strain gauges and displacement sensors were arranged at different structural layers and key nodes of the roof system to compare and analyze the stress and displacement changes. The results showed that the wind resistance capacity of the continuous welded stainless-steel roof system was more than 25% higher than that of the standing seam aluminum magnesium manganese roof system. The stress and displacement of the roof system gradually increased with the increase in wind load. Obvious differences in stress at different positions of the two roof systems were identified. The stress at the roof panel of the roof system was greater than that of other structural layers, and the maximum displacement of the roof panel in the elastic stage could reach more than 97.5 mm. The fitting coefficient between the test and the finite element was 0.976, and the ultimate bearing capacity of Specimen B was 479.64 MPa. The research results of this paper can provide some data support and reference for engineering design and applications.
Safety Assessment Method of Concrete-Filled Steel Tubular Arch Bridge by Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process
Authors: Shen Peiwen , Chen Yue , Ma Song , Yan Yong
Published: December 2023

The concrete-filled steel tubular (CFST) arch bridge has achieved significant development in recent years due to its unique mechanical performance and technical advantages. However, due to the lagging theoretical research compared to engineering practice, many problems have been exposed in the existing bridges, resulting in adverse social impacts and enormous economic losses. With the increasing prominence of safety issues in CFST arch bridges, it is necessary to assess their safety condition in service. This paper establishes a safety assessment index system for CFST arch bridges using the fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (AHP) based on an exponential scale. The assessment method proposed includes the following main points: (1) Bridge safety assessment is closely related to the load-bearing capacity of components. This study proposes an assessment index that comprehensively considers both the defect conditions and the design load-bearing capacity of components for the safety assessment. (2) The exponential scale method is introduced to safety assessment for the first time, and the AHP based on an exponential scale is applied to calculate the component weights. (3) Considering the specific structural characteristics of CFST arch bridges, this study provides a detailed division of component types and calculates the component weights. By combining the component assessment indexes, a comprehensive safety assessment index system is established, and a safety assessment method for CFST arch bridges is proposed. (4) Taking the Jiantiao Bridge in Zhejiang Province as an engineering case, the load-bearing capacity of components is calculated using finite element software ANSYS 19.1. Based on the established safety assessment index system, the safety of the bridge is assessed by integrating the inspection results. (5) Software for the safety assessment of a CFST arch bridge is developed using Visual Basic, and the assessment results align well with the actual condition of the bridge.
Deflection Monitoring Method for Simply Supported Girder Bridges Using Strain Response under Traffic Loads
Authors: Tang Yongsheng , Cang Jigang , Zheng Bohan , Tang Wei
Published: December 2023

Deflection measurements are usually used as a key index in civil engineering for performing structural assessments of bridge safety. However, owing to technical or cost issues, it may be difficult to implement long-term monitoring of bridge deflection, especially for short- or medium-span bridges. Therefore, this study presents a novel method for measuring the deflection of simply supported girder bridges. In the proposed method, the strain measurement was implemented under traffic loading at only one position, such as middle span, and then the strain distribution along the girder was reconstructed to calculate the girder deflection with basic structural mechanical theory. To implement the method, the theory was constructed based on the displacement reciprocal theorem at first to assess the strain distribution along the girder from the strain measurement at some position during traffic loads passing across the bridge. Second, a strain measurement method, namely long-gauge fibre Bragg grating (FBG) sensing technology, was introduced to take strain measurements for a concrete bridge. Third, various finite element (FE) bridge models were developed to validate the proposed method’s accuracy, the results from which indicated that the method accurately implemented deflection measurement with an approximately 5% calculation error. In addition, the influence of some key parameters, such as vehicle type, vehicle speed, and structural damage, was investigated. The simulation results revealed that damage to the hinge joint in the middle location could significantly influence the proposed method’s accuracy such that the error may exceed 10%. Finally, on-site experiments were conducted on a simply supported girder bridge to further validate the proposed method’s accuracy, and an approximately 8% deflection assessment error was found. Considering the additional advantages of FBG sensing technology, the proposed method can also be effective for long-term deflection measurements of short- or medium-span bridges.
Nature’s Green Potential: Anticancer Properties of Plants of the Euphorbiaceae Family
Authors: Jiménez-González Víctor , Kowalczyk Tomasz , Piekarski Janusz , Szemraj Janusz , Rijo Patricia , Sitarek Przemysław
Published: December 2023

The number of cancer cases will reach 24 million in 2040, according to the International Agency for Research on Cancer. Current treatments for cancer are not effective and selective for most patients; for this reason, new anticancer drugs need to be developed and researched enough. There are potentially useful drugs for cancer isolated from plants that are being used in the clinic. Available information about phytochemistry, traditional uses, in vitro and in vivo experiments with plants, and pure compounds isolated from the Euphorbiaceae family indicates that this family of plants has the potential to develop anticancer drugs. This review examines selected species from the Euphorbiaceae family and their bioactive compounds that could have potential against different types of cancer cells. It reviews the activity of crude extracts, isolated compounds, and nanoparticles and the potential underlying mechanisms of action.
The Sensitization of Triple-Negative Breast Cancers to Poly ADP Ribose Polymerase Inhibition Independent of BRCA1/2 Mutation Status by Chemically Modified microRNA-489
Authors: Soung Young Hwa , Ju Jingfang , Chung Jun
Published: December 2023

Chemoresistance and inefficient therapeutic efficacies in triple-negative breast cancers (TNBCs) are among the major clinical problems in breast cancers. A potential new method to sensitize these tumors to current treatment options is, therefore, urgent and necessary. Our previous studies demonstrated that miR-489 serves as one of the top tumor-suppressing miRs and features downregulated expression in metastatic TNBCs and that the restoration of miR-489 expression in TNBCs effectively inhibits the metastatic potentials of TNBCs both in vitro and in vivo. The chemical modification of miR-489 (CMM489) through the replacement of uracil with 5-FU further enhances the therapeutic potential of miR-489. In the present study, we tested the effects of CMM489 in synergizing DNA damage response (DDR) inhibitors such as PARP inhibitors. CMM489 is particularly effective in sensitizing TNBC cell lines with inherent resistance to PARP inhibitors regardless of BRCA mutation status. One of the anti-cancer mechanisms through which CMM489 synergizes with PARP inhibitors is the blockade of homologous recombination (HR) in TNBC cells upon DNA damage. The results of this study highlight the potential use of CMM489 in combination treatments with PARP inhibitors in TNBCs.
A Gelatin Hydrogel Nonwoven Fabric Enhances Subcutaneous Islet Engraftment in Rats
Authors: Saito Ryusuke , Inagaki Akiko , Nakamura Yasuhiro , Imura Takehiro , Kanai Norifumi , Mitsugashira Hiroaki , Endo Kumata Yukiko , Katano Takumi , Suzuki Shoki , Tokodai Kazuaki , Kamei Takashi , Unno Michiaki , Watanabe Kimiko , Tabata Yasuhiko , Goto Masafumi
Published: December 2023

Although subcutaneous islet transplantation has many advantages, the subcutaneous space is poor in vessels and transplant efficiency is still low in animal models, except in mice. Subcutaneous islet transplantation using a two-step approach has been proposed, in which a favorable cavity is first prepared using various materials, followed by islet transplantation into the preformed cavity. We previously reported the efficacy of pretreatment using gelatin hydrogel nonwoven fabric (GHNF), and the length of the pretreatment period influenced the results in a mouse model. We investigated whether the preimplantation of GHNF could improve the subcutaneous islet transplantation outcomes in a rat model. GHNF sheets sandwiching a silicone spacer (GHNF group) and silicone spacers without GHNF sheets (control group) were implanted into the subcutaneous space of recipients three weeks before islet transplantation, and diabetes was induced seven days before islet transplantation. Syngeneic islets were transplanted into the space where the silicone spacer was removed. Blood glucose levels, glucose tolerance, immunohistochemistry, and neovascularization were evaluated. The GHNF group showed significantly better blood glucose changes than the control group (p < 0.01). The cure rate was significantly higher in the GHNF group (p < 0.05). The number of vWF-positive vessels was significantly higher in the GHNF group (p < 0.01), and lectin angiography showed the same tendency (p < 0.05). The expression of laminin and collagen III around the transplanted islets was also higher in the GHNF group (p < 0.01). GHNF pretreatment was effective in a rat model, and the main mechanisms might be neovascularization and compensation of the extracellular matrices.
Force Field for Calculation of the Vapor-Liquid Phase Equilibrium of trans-Decalin
Authors: Anashkin Ivan P. , Klinov Alexander V.
Published: December 2023

Based on the TraPPE force field, previously unknown values of the parameters of the intermolecular interaction potential of trans-decalin were determined. Parametrization was carried out using experimental data on saturated vapor pressure and density at atmospheric pressure. The found parameters make it possible to adequately describe the boiling and condensation lines of trans-decalin and also predict the critical values of pressure, density, and temperature with satisfactory accuracy. Calculations of vapor-liquid phase equilibrium conditions for a binary CO2—trans-decalin mixture in supercritical conditions for CO2 were carried out. When quantitatively comparing the calculated values with experimental data, an underestimation of pressure at a temperature of 345.4 K by 30% is observed, which decreases to 5% for temperatures up to 525 K.
Wavelength-Stable Metal Grating Distributed Feedback Quantum Cascade Laser Emitting at λ ~ 7.2 μm
Authors: Ma Kedi , Liu Zizhuo , Cheng Fengmin , Yang Pengchang , Li Hongxiao , Niu Shan , Ge Gaohui , Xu Hao , Zhuo Ning , Su Hui , Zhang Jinchuan
Published: December 2023

In this research, we demonstrate a wavelength-stable continuous wave (CW) distributed feedback (DFB) quantum cascade laser (QCL) emitting at 7.2 μm using a surface metal grating approach without epitaxial regrowth. The deep metal grating provides an appropriate DFB coupling coefficient and enhanced thermal extraction, resulting in improved lasing performance and the realization of impressive wavelength stability. Quantitatively, the temperature tuning coefficient of the single-mode emission is only 0.54 nm/°C from 20 °C to 70 °C, and the current tuning coefficient of the single-mode emission is 3.2 nm/A from 1.0 A to 1.6 A. A DFB-QCL with a 2 mm cavity length exhibits a low threshold current of 0.6 A and a power of 1.1 W with a slope efficiency of 1 W/A in the CW mode at 300 K. A single-mode operation with a side mode suppression ratio of 33 dB and a single-lobed far-field without beam steering is obtained in the working temperature range of 20–70 °C The improved wavelength stability using a deep surface metal grating approach promises simplified fabrication, which is meaningful for the commercial applications of QCLs.
Interaction Regularity of Biomolecules on Mg and Mg-Based Alloy Surfaces: A First-Principles Study
Authors: Fang Zhe , Ma Baiwei , Liang Erjun , Jia Yu , Guan Shaokang
Published: December 2023

Adsorbed molecules can modulate the behavior of magnesium (Mg) and Mg alloy in biomedical applications. The interaction regularity and mechanism of biomolecules (such as amino acids, dipeptides, and tripeptide) on a Mg(0001) surface, the influence of dipole correction, and the effects of alloying elements and electronic structure were investigated in this study using first-principles calculations. Specifically, the adsorption energy (Eads) of functional groups (-NH2, -COOH and -CN3H4), amino acids (arginine (Arg), glycine (Gly), and aspartic acid (Asp)), dipeptides (arginine–glycine (Arg-Gly), glycine–aspartic acid (Gly-Asp), and arginine–aspartic acid (Arg-Asp)), and arginine–glycine–aspartic acid (RGD) tripeptide were systematically calculated. Dipole correction slightly enhanced the interaction between molecules and Mg surfaces, but the Eads trend remained unchanged. The addition of alloying elements improved the interaction of molecules and Mg-based alloy surfaces. This study will be of fundamental importance in understanding the interaction regularity of molecules on Mg and Mg-based alloy surfaces and provide possibilities for surface modification design of biomedical materials.
Effect of Re Addition on Microstructure and Oxidation Resistance of Co-Cr-Ta-Ti-C Alloys
Authors: Moreau Louis Etienne , Banoth Santhosh , Ishida Akira , Murakami Hideyuki
Published: December 2023

This study investigated the effect of Re addition on the microstructural evolution and oxidation resistance of Co-Cr-Ta-Ti-C alloys. The alloys tested in this study consisted of a Co-rich matrix with mixed HCP and FCC phases, together with TaTiC2- and Ti-based carbides. The addition of Re promotes the precipitation and growth of a CoCr-rich σ-phase. Differential thermal analysis (DTA) showed that the melting temperatures did not drastically change up to 10 at% Re addition, whereas 15 at% Re addition significantly increased the melting temperature of the alloys. Oxidation tests in air at 1200 °C showed that an excessive Re content could lead to a deterioration in oxidation resistance, mainly due to the accelerated formation of volatile Re oxides.
An Assessment of the Effectiveness and Safety of ULTRACOL100 as a Device for Restoring Skin in the Nasolabial Fold Region
Authors: Trinh Thuy-Tien Thi , Chien Pham Ngoc , Le Linh Thi Thuy , Ngan-Giang Nguyen , Nga Pham Thi , Nam Sun-Young , Heo Chan-Yeong
Published: December 2023

One of the most notable signs of an aging face is the nasolabial folds (NLFs), which often diminish emotional well-being and self-confidence. To address this concern, many people seek solutions to improve their appearance, often turning to fillers. The ULTRACOL100 device, a tissue restoration material, has been previously investigated and shown to exhibit significant efficacy in both in vitro and in vivo studies. In this research, we aim to explore the safety and effectiveness of the clinical trial of ULTRACOL100 in improving the skin in the NLF area over an 8-week observation period. Male and Female adults with nasolabial folds received two injections of ULTRACOL100, with a 4-week interval between treatments, on one side of their faces. On the other side, they received control materials (REJURAN®, JUVELOOK®, or HYRONT®). The assessment of skin improvement in the nasolabial fold area for each subject took place before and four weeks after each application. Various skin parameters, such as roughness, elasticity, moisture, transparency, trans-epidermal water loss, tone, radiance, skin pore size, and skin density, were measured to evaluate the outcomes. The application of the ULTRACOL100 device significantly reduced the skin roughness, the trans-epidermal water loss, and the skin pore size and increased the skin’s elasticity and internal elasticity, as well as the skin’s moisture, transparency, skin tone, radiance, and density. This study comprehensively investigates the effectiveness and safety of the ULTRACOL100 device, comparing it with three commercial products (REJURAN®, JUVELOOK®, and HYRONT®). The ULTRACOL100 device showed comparable performance in improving the appearance of the NLF area among this study subjects.
Impact of Schwoebel Barriers on the Step-Flow Growth of a Multicomponent Crystal
Authors: Redkov Alexey
Published: December 2023

The step-flow and spiral growth of a multicomponent crystal are considered from vapors, taking into account the different possible Schwoebel barriers for each component within the Burton-Cabrera-Frank model. Analytic expressions for the final growth rates of such a multicomponent crystal are determined while considering the kinetic properties of all the individual components and growth conditions. Possible instabilities inherent in the presence of several components are studied, and a stability criterion for the multicomponent case is proposed. It is shown that, in certain cases, nucleation of nanoislands of pure components behind the moving steps can initiate, significantly distorting the growth process. The criterion for the occurrence of such an unstable regime is found.
Key Considerations for the Treatment of Advanced Breast Cancer in Older Adults: An Expert Consensus of the Canadian Treatment Landscape
Authors: Jackson Emily B. , Curry Lauren , Mariano Caroline , Hsu Tina , Cook Sarah , Pezo Rossanna C. , Savard Marie-France , Desautels Danielle N. , Leblanc Dominique , Gelmon Karen A.
Published: December 2023

The prevalence of breast cancer amongst older adults in Canada is increasing. This patient population faces unique challenges in the management of breast cancer, as older adults often have distinct biological, psychosocial, and treatment-related considerations. This paper presents an expert consensus of the Canadian treatment landscape, focusing on key considerations for optimizing selection of systemic therapy for advanced breast cancer in older adults. This paper aims to provide evidence-based recommendations and practical guidance for healthcare professionals involved in the care of older adults with breast cancer. By recognizing and addressing the specific needs of older adults, healthcare providers can optimize treatment outcomes and improve the overall quality of care for this population.
A Profit Maximization Model for Data Consumers with Data Providers’ Incentives in Personal Data Trading Market
Authors: Park Hyojin , Oh Hyeontaek , Choi Jun Kyun
Published: December 2023

This paper proposes a profit maximization model for a data consumer when it buys personal data from data providers (by obtaining consent) through data brokers and provides their new services to data providers (i.e., service consumers). To observe the behavioral models of data providers, the data consumer, and service consumers, this paper proposes the willingness-to-sell model of personal data of data providers (which is affected by data providers’ behavior related to explicit consent), the service quality model obtained by the collected personal data from the data consumer’s perspective, and the willingness-to-pay model of service consumers regarding provided new services from the data consumer. Particularly, this paper jointly considers the behavior of data providers and service users under a limited budget. With parameters inspired by real-world surveys on data providers, this paper shows various numerical results to check the feasibility of the proposed models.
Biological Synthesis and Characterization of Silver-Doped Nanocomposites: Antibacterial and Mechanistic Studies
Authors: Tchinda Taghu Franklin Loic , Pone Kamdem Boniface , Ngouana Vincent , Yajeh Tanka Zuriatou , Yimgang Victorine Lorette , Nsami Ndi Julius , Keilah Lunga Paul , Fekam Boyom Fabrice
Published: December 2023

The development of antimicrobial resistance has increased the prevalence of infectious diseases, causing a global health problem that accounts for over 4.95 million deaths worldwide annually. The side effects associated with current antibiotics prompt a crucial need to search for effective and safe antimicrobial agents. In this study, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were prepared by chemical reduction method using silver nitrates as a metallic precursor and Croton macrostachyus bark aqueous extract as a reducing and capping agent. The nanoparticles were further functionalized using C. macrostachyus-based activated carbon (CAC) to generate nanocomposites (CAC-AgNPs). The nanomaterials were characterized by ultraviolet-visible (UV–vis) absorption spectra and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra. The antibacterial activity of the as-prepared nanomaterials was evaluated against an array of bacterial strains by microdilution method, whereas their cytotoxicity profile was evaluated using Vero cells (human mammalian cells). Antibacterial mechanistic studies of active nanomaterials were carried out through bacterial growth kinetics, nucleic acid leakage tests, and catalase inhibition assays. As a result, the as-prepared nanomaterials exhibited antibacterial activity against an array of bacterial strains (minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) range: 62.5 to 500 µg/mL), the most susceptible being Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Cytotoxicity studies of the nanomaterials on Vero cells revealed that the nanocomposite (median cytotoxic concentration (CC50): 213.6 µg/mL) was less toxic than its nanoparticle (CC50 value: 164.75 µg/mL) counterpart. Antibacterial mechanistic studies revealed that the nanomaterials induced (i) bacteriostatic activity vis à vis E. coli and S. aureus and (ii) inhibition of catalase in these bacteria. This novel contribution regarding the antibacterial mechanisms of action of silver nanocomposites from C. macrostachyus-based activated carbon may contribute to our understanding of the antibacterial action of these biomaterials. Nevertheless, more chemistry and in vivo experiments as well as in depth antibacterial mechanistic studies are warranted for the successful utilization of these antibacterial biomaterials.
What Does Soluble C-Type Lectin-like Receptor 2 (sCLEC-2) × D-Dimer/Platelet (PLT) (sCLEC-2 × D-Dimer/PLT) Mean for Coagulation/Fibrinolysis Conditions? Comment on Yamamoto et al. Super Formula for Diagnosing Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation Using Soluble C-Type Lectin-like Receptor 2. Diagnostics 2023, 13, 2299
Authors: Ishikura Hiroyasu
Published: December 2023

I read with great interest the article by Akitaka Yamamoto et al. that was recently published in Diagnostics [...]
Troponin T and Survival following Cardiac Surgery in Patients Supported with Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation for Post-Cardiotomy Shock
Authors: Celińska-Spodar Małgorzata , Załęska Kocięcka Marta , Kowalik Ilona , Kołsut Piotr , Sitkowska-Rysiak Ewa , Szymański Jarosław , Stępińska Janina
Published: December 2023

Background: While troponin is an established biomarker of cardiac injury, its prognostic significance in post-cardiotomy cardiogenic shock patients supported by venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (PCCS–VA-ECMO) remains unclear. Objective: This study aimed to assess the correlation between early post-operative troponin T levels and both short-term and long-term mortality outcomes in this cohort. Methods: We evaluated 1457 troponin T measurements from 102 PCCS–VA-ECMO patients treated from 2013 to 2018 at a specialized cardio-surgical and transplantation center. Emphasis was placed on troponin concentrations at 24–48 h post-surgery, post-VA-ECMO implantation, and peak troponin levels in relation to VA-ECMO weaning, as well as 90-day and one-year mortality. Results: No significant association was observed between troponin T levels post-VA-ECMO implantation and 90-day mortality (median: 1338 ng/L for overall, 1529 ng/L for survivors vs. 1294 ng/L for non-survivors; p = 0.146) or between peak troponin levels and 90-day mortality (median: 3583 ng/L for overall, 3337 ng/L for survivors vs. 3666 ng/L for non-survivors; p = 0.709). Comprehensive multivariate models showed no correlation between troponin levels and various mortality endpoints. Notably, age, procedure urgency, type, LVEF pre-surgery, Euroscore II, prior cardiac arrest, and VA-ECMO duration were not linked with troponin release. Hemodiafiltration emerged as the strongest mortality risk factor [HR 2.4]. Conclusions: Isolated early Troponin T release and peak troponin T were not associated, while organ complications were linked with VA-ECMO weaning or short- and long-term prognosis. The results underscore the multi-organ implications of PCCS in determining survival.
Feasibility of Encord Artificial Intelligence Annotation of Arterial Duplex Ultrasound Images
Authors: Bellomo Tiffany R. , Goudot Guillaume , Lella Srihari K. , Landau Eric , Sumetsky Natalie , Zacharias Nikolaos , Fischetti Chanel , Dua Anahita
Published: December 2023

DUS measurements for popliteal artery aneurysms (PAAs) specifically can be time-consuming, error-prone, and operator-dependent. To eliminate this subjectivity and provide efficient segmentation, we applied artificial intelligence (AI) to accurately delineate inner and outer lumen on DUS. DUS images were selected from a cohort of patients with PAAs from a multi-institutional platform. Encord is an easy-to-use, readily available online AI platform that was used to segment both the inner lumen and outer lumen of the PAA on DUS images. A model trained on 20 images and tested on 80 images had a mean Average Precision of 0.85 for the outer polygon and 0.23 for the inner polygon. The outer polygon had a higher recall score than precision score at 0.90 and 0.85, respectively. The inner polygon had a score of 0.25 for both precision and recall. The outer polygon false-negative rate was the lowest in images with the least amount of blur. This study demonstrates the feasibility of using the widely available Encord AI platform to identify standard features of PAAs that are critical for operative decision making.
The Latest Updates in Swept-Source Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography
Authors: Xia Fan , Hua Rui
Published: December 2023

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a revolutionary imaging technology in the field of ophthalmic medical imaging [...]
A Modified Corona Score Using Lung Ultrasound to Identify COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Caroselli Costantino , Blaivas Michael , Tung Chen Yale , Marcosignori Matteo , Cherubini Antonio , Longo Daniele
Published: December 2023

Background: COVID-19 continues to circulate around the world with multiple different strains being active at once. While diagnosis with antigen and molecular testing is more readily available, there is still room for alternative methods of diagnosis, particularly in out-of-hospital settings, e.g., home or nursing homes, and in low–medium income countries, where testing may not be readily available. Study Objectives: To evaluate the performance of two modified corona score methods compared with a traditional corona score approach to identify patients with COVID-19. Methods: This was a retrospective multicenter study performed to compare the ability to predict SARS-CoV-2 test results on a nasopharyngeal swab between the corona scores and two novel corona scores (modified 1 corona score (M1CS) and modified 2 corona score (M2CS)). The M1CS included lung ultrasound (LUS) and chest X-ray (CXR) results, while the M2SC only utilized LUS findings without CXRs. Emergency physicians performed point-of-care LUS and a physical examination upon admission to the emergency department. Results: Subjects positive for SARS-CoV-2 were older and had higher ferritin levels and temperature and lower diastolic blood pressure and oxygen saturation. The two groups differed on corona score and modified corona scores (p < 0.001 for all). SARS-CoV-2-positive patients had fewer pleural line irregularities (p = 0.025) but presented more frequently with an interstitial pattern on CXRs (p < 0.001). Conclusions: In our study, LUS alone provided a valuable contribution to the corona score and improved its performance more than when CXR results were included. These results suggest that resource-limited areas where CXRs may be unavailable or prohibitively expensive can utilize an ultrasound as the sole imaging modality without a loss of diagnostic performance for SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia diagnosis.
The Potential Clinical Applications of a Microfluidic Lab-on-a-Chip for the Identification and Antibiotic Susceptibility Testing of Enterococcus faecalis-Associated Endodontic Infections: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ardila Carlos M. , Jiménez-Arbeláez Gustavo A. , Vivares-Builes Annie Marcela
Published: December 2023

This systematic review evaluated the potential clinical use of microfluidic lab-on-a-chip (LOC) technology in the identification and antibiotic susceptibility testing of E. faecalis in endodontic infections. The search methodology employed in this review adhered to the PRISMA guidelines. Multiple scientific databases, including PubMed/MEDLINE, SCOPUS, and SCIELO, were utilized, along with exploration of grey literature sources. Up to September 2023, these resources were searched using specific keywords and MeSH terms. An initial comprehensive search yielded 202 articles. Ultimately, this systematic review incorporated 12 studies. Out of these, seven aimed to identify E. faecalis, while the remaining five evaluated its susceptibility to different antibiotics. All studies observed that the newly developed microfluidic chip significantly reduces detection time compared to traditional methods. This enhanced speed is accompanied by a high degree of accuracy, efficiency, and sensitivity. Most research findings indicated that the entire process took anywhere from less than an hour to five hours. It is important to note that this approach bypasses the need for minimum inhibitory concentration measurements, as it does not rely on traditional methodologies. Microfluidic devices enable the rapid identification and accurate antimicrobial susceptibility testing of E. faecalis, which are crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment in endodontic infections.
First-Principle Validation of Fourier’s Law: One-Dimensional Classical Inertial Heisenberg Model
Authors: Lima Henrique Santos , Tsallis Constantino , Nobre Fernando Dantas
Published: December 2023

The thermal conductance of a one-dimensional classical inertial Heisenberg model of linear size L is computed, considering the first and last particles in thermal contact with heat baths at higher and lower temperatures, Th and Tl (Th>Tl), respectively. These particles at the extremities of the chain are subjected to standard Langevin dynamics, whereas all remaining rotators (i=2,⋯,L−1) interact by means of nearest-neighbor ferromagnetic couplings and evolve in time following their own equations of motion, being investigated numerically through molecular-dynamics numerical simulations. Fourier’s law for the heat flux is verified numerically, with the thermal conductivity becoming independent of the lattice size in the limit L→∞, scaling with the temperature, as κ(T)∼T−2.25, where T=(Th+Tl)/2. Moreover, the thermal conductance, σ(L,T)≡κ(T)/L, is well-fitted by a function, which is typical of nonextensive statistical mechanics, according to σ(L,T)=Aexpq(−Bxη), where A and B are constants, x=L0.475T, q=2.28±0.04, and η=2.88±0.04.
Students’ Well-Being Fluctuations during COVID-19—A Matter of Grade, State, or Trait?
Authors: Lykkegaard Eva , Qvortrup Ane , Juul Casper B.
Published: December 2023

As part of the large-scale ‘COVID-19, Building Back Better’-project, longitudinal student survey data were collected (n = 774) from four subsequent survey rounds (grade 3–9) in a period with COVID-19 related school closures and re-openings in Denmark (December 2020 to June 2022). Students’ responses to questions related to three well-being dimensions: social, emotional, and academic well-being, were analyzed with factor analysis and latent state-trait analysis to investigate fluctuations in the well-being dimensions across time and the extent to which fluctuations can be attributed to the COVID-19 context (state), individual differences (trait) or simply the natural maturation of students over time (grade). All three well-being dimensions were consistently high (between 3 and 4 out of 5) during the data collection period, however, there was a decrease in emotional well-being and particularly in academic well-being during the period. We show that the size and determinant effects of the fluctuations in the differentiated well-being dimensions differ. Academic well-being generally was the most trait-like dimension, whereas social well-being was more state-like. However, a purposeful analysis of one of the youngest cohorts indicated a critical phase from grade 3–6 corresponding to the time for declines in emotional and academic well-being, where the social well-being shifted from a trait-like to state-like and academic well-being shifted from state-like to trait-like nature. With this in mind, the article discusses how schools can support students’ well-being in the post-pandemic era.
The Keys to Developing Communicative Competence as a School Project: A Qualitative View from Teachers’ Beliefs
Authors: Fabregat Barrios Santiago , Jodar Jurado Rocío
Published: December 2023

Educational systems have the common objective of coordinating efforts to improve students’ communicative competence and facilitate the development of their oral and written language skills for personal, social, academic, and professional purposes. The work on communicative competence from a school perspective has various antecedents in the international educational context. In Spain, the improvement of students’ linguistic communication competence in all the languages spoken in the schools (mother languages and second languages) has been addressed through different initiatives, among which the SLP (School Language Project) programme, better known in Spanish as Proyecto Lingüístico de Centro (PLC), which has been implemented in the Autonomous Community of Andalusia since the 2013–2014 academic year, stands out. The aim of this paper is to examine the opinions of the teacher coordinators involved in the implementation of SLP in their schools as well as their perceptions about the impact of external factors in the process and, lastly, to highlight the main implications emerging from this global vision for the implementation of interdisciplinary projects to improve LCC (Linguistic Communication Competence) schools. This study is based on the feedback provided by the coordinators of the SLP initiative in Andalusian institutions over five academic years. The findings have been studied utilising a qualitative methodology and assessed using the Atlas Ti 6.0 software, then grouped into five diverse categories. The results indicate that, despite the programme’s strengths, specific improvement measures are necessary in both external and internal aspects related to SLP.
Predicting People’s Concentration and Movements in a Smart City
Authors: Ferreira Joao C. , Francisco Bruno , Elvas Luis , Nunes Miguel , Afonso Jose A.
Published: December 2023

With the rapid growth of urbanization and the proliferation of mobile phone usage, smart city initiatives have gained momentum in leveraging data-driven insights to enhance urban planning and resource allocation. This paper proposes a novel approach for predicting people’s concentration and movements within a smart city environment using mobile phone data provided by telecommunication operators. By harnessing the vast amount of anonymized and aggregated mobile phone data, we present a predictive framework that offers valuable insights into urban dynamics. The methodology involves collecting and processing location-based data obtained from telecommunication operators. Using machine learning techniques, including clustering and spatiotemporal analysis, we developed models to identify patterns in people’s movements and concentration across various city regions. Our proposed approach considers factors such as time of day, day of the week, and special events to capture the intricate dynamics of urban activities. The predictive models presented in this paper demonstrate the ability to predict areas of high concentration of people, such as commercial districts during peak hours, as well as the people flow during the time. These insights have significant implications for urban planning, traffic management, and resource allocation. Our approach respects user privacy by working with aggregated and anonymized data, ensuring compliance with privacy regulations and ethical considerations. The proposed models were evaluated using real-world mobile phone data collected from a smart city environment in Lisbon, Portugal. The experimental results demonstrate the accuracy and effectiveness of our approach in predicting people’s movements and concentration. This paper contributes to the growing field of smart city research by providing a data-driven solution for enhancing urban planning and resource allocation strategies. As cities continue to evolve, leveraging mobile phone data from telecommunication operators can lead to more efficient and sustainable urban environments.
Ship Classification Based on AIS Data and Machine Learning Methods
Authors: Huang I-Lun , Lee Man-Chun , Nieh Chung-Yuan , Huang Juan-Chen
Published: December 2023

AIS ship-type code categorizes ships into broad classes, such as fishing, passenger, and cargo, yet struggles with finer distinctions among cargo ships, such as bulk carriers and containers. Different ship types significantly impact acceleration, steering performance, and stopping distance, thus making precise identification of unfamiliar ship types crucial for maritime monitoring. This study introduces an original classification study based on AIS data for cargo ships, presenting a classifier tailored for bulk carriers, containers, general cargo, and vehicle carriers. The model’s efficacy was tested within the Changhua Wind Farm Channel using eight classification algorithms across tree-structure-based, proximity-based, and regression-based categories and employing standard metrics (Accuracy, Precision, Recall, F1-score) to assess the performance. The results show that tree-structure-based algorithms, particularly XGBoost and Random Forest, demonstrated superior performance. This study also implemented a feature selection strategy with five methods, revealing that a model trained with only four features (three ship-geometric features and one trajectory behavior feature) can achieve high accuracy. Conclusively, the classifier effectively overcame the challenges of limited AIS data labels, achieving a classification accuracy of 97% for ships in the Changhua Wind Farm Channel. These results are pivotal in identifying abnormal ship behavior, highlighting the classifier’s potential for maritime monitoring applications.
Advancements in Artificial Intelligence Circuits and Systems (AICAS)
Authors: Miller Tymoteusz , Durlik Irmina , Kostecka Ewelina , Mitan-Zalewska Paulina , Sokołowska Sylwia , Cembrowska-Lech Danuta , Łobodzińska Adrianna
Published: December 2023

In the rapidly evolving landscape of electronics, Artificial Intelligence Circuits and Systems (AICAS) stand out as a groundbreaking frontier. This review provides an exhaustive examination of the advancements in AICAS, tracing its development from inception to its modern-day applications. Beginning with the foundational principles that underpin AICAS, we delve into the state-of-the-art architectures and design paradigms that are propelling the field forward. This review also sheds light on the multifaceted applications of AICAS, from optimizing energy efficiency in electronic devices to empowering next-generation cognitive computing systems. Key challenges, such as scalability and robustness, are discussed in depth, along with potential solutions and emerging trends that promise to shape the future of AICAS. By offering a comprehensive overview of the current state and potential trajectory of AICAS, this review serves as a valuable resource for researchers, engineers, and industry professionals looking to harness the power of AI in electronics.
Parameter Optimization of Wireless Power Transfer Based on Machine Learning
Authors: Zhang Heng , Liao Manwen , He Liangxi , Lee Chi-Kwan
Published: December 2023

Wireless power transfer (WPT) has become a crucial feature in numerous electronic devices, electric appliances, and electric vehicles. However, traditional design methods for WPT suffer from numerous drawbacks, such as time-consuming computations and high error counts due to inaccurate model parameters. As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to gain traction across industries, its ability to provide quick decisions and solutions makes it highly attractive for system optimizations. In this paper, a method for optimizing WPT parameters based on machine learning is proposed. The convolutional neural network is adapted for training and predicting the performance of a pair of coupled coils under a set of input parameters. The performance parameters include the spatial magnetic field distribution map, quality factor, inductance value, and mutual inductance value, which are critical in determining the efficiency and selecting optimal coil parameters such as the number of turns and wire diameter. Moreover, the spatial magnetic field distribution map is also helpful for identifying design compliance with the electromagnetic field safety standards. The training results reveal that the proposed method takes an average of 3.2 ms with a normalized image prediction error of 0.0034 to calculate the results to calculate one set of parameters, compared to an average of 23.74 s via COMSOL. This represents significant computational time savings while still maintaining acceptable computational accuracy.