bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Analysis on the Role of AI Recommendation System in Social Media through Actor-Network Theory
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Kim Sooyong , Kwon Byungwoong
Published: November 2022

The purpose of this paper is to analyze and discuss the role of Facebook's AI recommendation system through actor network theory (ANT). To this end, literature related to actor network theory, social media, and Facebook's AI recommendation system was reviewed to examine the characteristics and structure. In addition, the literature that studied the communication effect of social media and the social effect of AI recommendation system was examined. As a result of the study, the opaque 'AI recommendation system' was playing the role of a programmer and switcher for network power. The result leads to a situation in which users using social media are hindered by autonomous choices and actions within the network. In addition, this absurd situation was used to pursue the special interests of platform operators at the peak of network power. Therefore, users who are human actors of the network need a process of recognizing and improving the problems of the system and their natural rights through the process of opening and examining the AI recommendation system closed inside the network for fair network configuration.
Analysis of Student Perceptions and Needs for University Extra Curricular Programs: Focusing on K University
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Park Jiyeon , Cho Boram
Published: November 2022

The purpose of this study is to analyze student's perceptions and needs for university extra curricular programs. The subject of this study is university k students and data were collected from January 4 to January 14, 2022 using questionnaires and analyzed using SPSS. The research results are as follows. First, 48% of the study subjects obtained information of the extra curricular program through the publicity leaflet. Second, 74% of the study subjects preferred the participatory education. Third, 87% of the study subjects answered that they were satisfied with the instructor. Fourth, 50% of the study subjects preferred the non-face-to-face operation. Fifth, 84% of the study subjects were overall satisfied with the extra curricular program. Sixth, 84% of the study subjects answered that their competencies improved after participating in the extra curricular program. This study is meaningful in that it analyzes student perceptions and needs for extra curricular programs and suggests directions for the development and operation of extra curricular programs.
A Study on the Meaning of Genre Grammar and Discourse in Korean Fantasy TV Drama: , , , and
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Kim Kangwon
Published: November 2022

This study aims to pay attention to 2013 for the study of the fantasy genre of Korean TV dramas. This is because in 2013, works that could be the prototype of the fantasy genre appeared, and since then, it has become an important starting point for forming the genre grammar of the Korean fantasy genre. In 2013, the four most popular works, , , , and , were studied to capture the meaning of the current genre grammar and discourse of fantasy TV dramas.
An Analysis on Foreigner Committed Crimes Covered in Media
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, 신 재헌
Published: November 2022

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the cases of foreigner committed crime covered in media and introduce the seriousness of the crimes committed by foreigners. According to the violent crime analysis results, the violent crimes committed by foreigners were brutal and cruel and involved revenge motive. In addition, the foreign criminals often used weapons, committed crimes in groups, and involved sexual violence crime in the violent form. In case of property crimes, the foreigners committed the property crimes in various forms including voice phishing, illegal overseas remittance, illegal loan business, and job scam. The property crimes targeted both Koreans and foreigners. Unlike other crimes, the property crimes committed by foreigners are often hidden without getting reported. Other crimes committed by foreigners included various cases including production, distribution, consumption of illicit drugs, ID card rental, illegal brokerage, and trafficking of cultural property.
A Study on the Priority Analysis of Employment Support Policy for High School Graduates
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Kim Eunbee , Roh Kyungran
Published: November 2022

This study is aimed to draw the priority of employment support policy for high school graduate youths. To this end, an analysis on the present employment support policies for unemployed high school graduate youths was conducted to draw the issues related to the policies. Based on this, this study intended to seek political directions for unemployed high school graduate youths. The study results are as follows. First, the current employment support policies for Korean youths were designed for high school graduates to participate, but there was a need for a specialized employment support policy with consideration for the characteristics of high school graduates. Second, according to the analysis on the priority of employment support policies for high school graduates from the perspective of importance and feasibility, it was found that employment—linked policies such as the Employment Success Package and SME Long-service Incentives had the highest priority. Last, as a result of deriving the priority of employment support policies for high school graduates based on the overall results with an analysis using Borich Priority Formula, visualized with Hershkowitz threshold function graph, the Employment Success Package and the Work and Learning Dual System were included in a top-priority group. This study has a practical meaning in that it sought ways to effectively achieve political objectives within a limited budget by identifying the employment support policies necessary for high school graduates and prioritizing the policies.
A Study on the Influence of Korean Cultural Perception on Korean Language Learning Activities and Visit Intention in Korea
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Jiao Yan
Published: November 2022

In this study, a survey was conducted to test the relationship between Korean culture perception, learning activity, and visit intention, and reliability, validity, hypothesis verification, and mediating effect were confirmed using the Smart-PLS analysis method. The verification results obtained based on the above research results are as follows. First, it was tested that Korean cultural awareness had a positive (+) effect on learning activism and visiting intention to Korea. Second, it was tested that learning activism had a positive (+) effect on Korea's visit intention. Third, it was tested that learning activism has a mediating effect between Korean cultural awareness and Korean visit intention. Based on these results, implications were presented.
Research to Secure Core Competency System and Feasibility
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Choi Heoncheol , Kim Soodong
Published: November 2022

The purpose of this study is to strengthen the validity of the core competency system. Achieving the research purpose The research content analyzed the internal/external logical connection between core competencies and sub-competence, and developed branding and core competencies behavioral indicators to spread core competencies. As a result of the study, the feasibility of the core competency system was secured through a feasibility study. Through core competency branding, the link between competency diffusion and competency-based curriculum was strengthened, and the foundation was laid for the development of competency measurement tools by developing behavioral indicators.
A Qualitative Research On Portage As Occupation And Portes (The Case Of Elazığ)
Authors: YILMAZ Mevlüt
Published: November 2022

The subject of this research is porters working in transportation works in Elazig. In this study, the world of meaning of those who perform the porter profession is focused and the nature of heavy-duty transportation works is examined. For this purpose, it is concentrated on the socio-demographic characteristics of the porters, their experiences of the porter profession and their work life in the context of working conditions. In addition, it is tried to analyze the occupational diseases peculiar to porters, their social environment's view of themselves, their perceptions of technological developments and the current situation/future of the porter's profession, the socio-economic problems they experience and their coping strategies, their work/non-work social relations, their expectations for the future from a sociological point of view. The in-depth interview technique, one of the qualitative research methods, was used in the study. The data that is the subject of the research, are based on the interviews and observations made with porters who informal workers in the Saray Mosque square and surrounding coffeehouses in the city center of Elazig. In this context, interviews were conducted with 17 porters with semi-structured questions. Compared to its historical background, the profession of porter is transforming today. According to the research findings, porters with low education levels in general and who do not have any other job opportunities and perceptions are more likely to encounter risky, uncertain and precarious conditions at the socio-economic level. As a result, the burden of the porters, who are trying to hold on to the urban life, is getting heavier day by day with the transformations in the occupational structure. It can be said that the porters are forced to struggle more.
Yetişkin Bireylerde Cinsiyet, Çocukluk Çağı Travmaları, Yaşamda Anlam, Öz-Şefkat ve Psikolojik Sağlamlık Arasındaki İlişkinin İncelenmesi
Authors: ARAS Nur Yağmur , TOPKAYA Nursel , ŞAHİN Ertuğrul
Published: November 2022

Bu araştırmanın amacı yetişkin bireylerde cinsiyet, çocukluk çağı travmaları, yaşamda anlam ve öz şefkatin psikolojik sağlamlığı yordayıcı rolünü incelemektir. Araştırmanın çalışma grubunu, Türkiye’nin farklı şehirlerinde yaşamakta olan 266 yetişkin birey oluşturmuştur. Araştırmaya katılan yetişkin kişilerin yaşları 18 ila 60 arasında değişmekte olup ortalama yaşı 25.81’dir. Katılımcılar Demografik Bilgi Formu, Çocukluk Çağı Travmaları Ölçeği, Yaşamda Anlam Ölçeği, Öz Şefkat Ölçeği ve Kısa Psikolojik Sağlamlık Ölçeğinden oluşan bir veri toplama aracını cevaplamıştır. Verilerin analizinde Pearson korelasyon analizi, çoklu regresyon analizi ve göreceli önem analizi kullanılmıştır. Araştırma sonucunda cinsiyet ve çocukluk çağı travmalarının yetişkin bireylerde psikolojik sağlamlığın anlamlı birer yordayıcısı olmadığı bulunmuştur. Yaşamda anlam ve öz şefkatin ise yetişkin bireylerde psikolojik sağlamlığın pozitif anlamlı birer yordayıcısı olduğu belirlenmiştir. Ayrıca, gerçekleştirilen göreceli önem analizi sonuçları yetişkin bireylerde psikolojik sağlamlığın en önemli yordayıcısının öz şefkat olduğunu ve bu değişkenin regresyon modeli tarafından açıklanan varyans oranının yaklaşık olarak %88’ini tek başına açıkladığını göstermiştir. Ruh sağlığı uzmanları yetişkin bireylerin psikolojik sağlamlıklarını geliştirmeye yönelik ruh sağlığı müdahalelerinde danışanlarının öz şefkat ve yaşamda anlam düzeylerinin artırılmasına odaklanarak verdikleri hizmetlerin etkililiğini artırabilir.
A multi-cycle inventory control model for deteriorating items with partial backlogging under trade credit
Authors: Li Zhonghui , Chamchang Panida , Niu Lili , Mo Jiangtao
Published: November 2022

The finite horizon should be considered for products with a limited lifecycle. To introduce this possibility, multiple orders and partial backlogging policies are established under trade credit in an inventory model, where demand is a time-varying function and the backlogging rate is a decreasing function about a customer's waiting time. This paper presents lemmas and theories to determine optimal replenishment time and backlogging time to maximize total profit for the retailer. A search algorithm to solve the optimal order strategy is proven based on the theoretical results. Numerical examples are presented, and the optimal order strategy is obtained. A sensitivity analysis of the main parameters is carried out. The effects of total profit on the main parameter of trade credit are analyzed from both macroscopic and microscopic perspectives.
Engineered small extracellular vesicles as a versatile platform to efficiently load ferulic acid via an “esterase-responsive active loading” strategy
Authors: Man Fulong , Xing Huaran , Wang Haoran , Wang Junfeng , Lu Rong
Published: November 2022

As nano-drug carriers, small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) have shown unique advantages, but their drug loading and encapsulation efficiency are far from being satisfied, especially for the loading of hydrophilic small-molecule drugs. Inspired by the strategies of active loading of liposomal nanomedicines, pre-drug design and immobilization enzyme, here we developed a new platform, named “Esterase-responsive Active Loading” (EAL), for the efficient and stable drug encapsulation of sEVs. Widely used ferulic acid ester derivatives were chosen as prodrugs based on the EAL of engineered sEVs to establish a continuous transmembrane ion gradient for achieving efficient loading of active molecule ferulic acid into sEVs. The EAL showed that the drug loading and encapsulation efficiency were around 6-fold and 5-fold higher than passive loading, respectively. Moreover, characterization by nano-flow cytometry and Malvern particle size analyzer showed that differential ultracentrifugation combined with multiple types of membrane filtration methods can achieve large-scale and high-quality production of sEVs. Finally, extracellular and intracellular assessments further confirmed the superior performance of the EAL-prepared sEVs-loaded ferulic acid preparation in terms of slow release and low toxicity. Taken together, these findings will provide an instructive insight into the development of sEV-based delivery systems.
Autophagy and the primary cilium in cell metabolism: What’s upstream?
Authors: Claude-Taupin Aurore , Dupont Nicolas , Codogno Patrice
Published: November 2022

The maintenance of cellular homeostasis in response to extracellular stimuli, i.e., nutrient and hormone signaling, hypoxia, or mechanical forces by autophagy, is vital for the health of various tissues. The primary cilium (PC) is a microtubule-based sensory organelle that regulates the integration of several extracellular stimuli. Over the past decade, an interconnection between autophagy and PC has begun to be revealed. Indeed, the PC regulates autophagy and in turn, a selective form of autophagy called ciliophagy contributes to the regulation of ciliogenesis. Moreover, the PC regulates both mitochondrial biogenesis and lipophagy to produce free fatty acids. These two pathways converge to activate oxidative phosphorylation and produce ATP, which is mandatory for cell metabolism and membrane transport. The autophagy-dependent production of energy is fully efficient when the PC senses shear stress induced by fluid flow. In this review, we discuss the cross-talk between autophagy, the PC and physical forces in the regulation of cell biology and physiology.
Mycobacterium tuberculosis Rv0790c inhibits the cellular autophagy at its early stage and facilitates mycobacterial survival
Authors: Fang Jun , Dong Chunsheng , Xiong Sidong
Published: November 2022

Rv0790c is predicted to be a conserved hypothetical protein encoded by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb). However, its function in Mtb infection remains largely unknown. In this study, we found that Rv0790c promoted bacillary survival of M. smegmatis (Ms), both in vitro and in vivo. The bacillary burden of Ms exogenously expressing Rv0790c increased, whereas in Rv0790c-knockouts the bacillary burden decreased in infected macrophages. Multiple cellular processes were analyzed to explore the underlying mechanisms. We found that neither inflammatory regulation nor apoptotic induction were responsible for the promotion of bacillary survival mediated by Rv0790c. Interestingly, we found that Rv0790c facilitates mycobacterial survival through cellular autophagy at its early stage. Immunoprecipitation assay of autophagy initiation-related proteins indicated that Rv0790c interacted with mTOR and enhanced its activity, as evidenced by the increased phosphorylation level of mTOR downstream substrates, ULK-1, at Ser757 and P70S6K, at Thr389. Our study uncovers a novel autophagy suppressor encoded by mycobacterial Rv0790c, which inhibits the early stage of cellular autophagy induction upon Mtb infection and takes an important role in maintaining intracellular mycobacterial survival. It may aid in understanding the mechanism of Mtb evasion of host cellular degradation, as well as hold the potential to develop new targets for the prevention and treatment of tuberculosis.
The impact of dietary fibers on Clostridioides difficile infection in a mouse model
Authors: Wu Zhengjie , Xu Qiaomai , Wang Qiangqiang , Chen Yunbo , Lv Longxian , Zheng Beiwen , Yan Ren , Jiang Huiyong , Shen Jian , Wang Shuting , Wang Kaicen , Xia Jiafeng , Han Shengyi , Li Lanjuan
Published: November 2022

Diets rich in fiber may provide health benefits and regulate the gut microbiome, which affects the immune system. However, the role of dietary fiber in Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) is controversial. Here, we investigated the use of fermentable fibers, such as inulin or pectin, to replace the insoluble fiber cellulose to explore how dietary fiber affects C. difficile-induced colitis in mice through intestinal microecology and metabolomics. Using C. difficile VPI 10463, we generated a mouse model of antibiotic-induced CDI. We evaluated disease outcomes and the microbial community among mice fed two fermentable fibers (inulin or pectin) versus the insoluble fiber cellulose. We analyzed and compared the gut microbiota, intestinal epithelium, cytokine levels, immune responses, and metabolites between the groups. Severe histological injury and elevated cytokine levels were observed in colon tissues after infection. Different diets showed different effects, and pectin administration protected intestinal epithelial permeability. Pectin also steadily increased the diversity of the microbiome and decreased the levels of C. difficile-induced markers of inflammation in serum and colonic tissues. The pectin group showed a higher abundance of Lachnospiraceae and a lower abundance of the conditionally pathogenic Enterobacteriaceae than the cellulose group with infection. The concentration of short-chain fatty acids in the cecal contents was also higher in the pectin group than in the cellulose group. Pectin exerted its effects through the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) pathway, which was confirmed by using the AhR agonist FICZ and the inhibitor CH2223191. Our results show that pectin alters the microbiome and metabolic function and triggers a protective immune response.
Mini review: Individual differences and domain-general mechanisms in object recognition
Authors: Gauthier Isabel , Cha Oakyoon , Chang Ting-Yun
Published: November 2022

Over the past three decades, object recognition moved away from domain-general questions, favoring investigation of putative category-specific mechanisms. But growing interest in individual differences in object recognition is putting the spotlight back on domain-general mechanisms, supporting their existence rather than simply assuming them. We reflect on the relative progress in three areas of visual cognition—visual object recognition, ensemble perception, and holistic processing. The study of visual object recognition abilities, based on latent variable modeling, provides strong evidence for domain-general mechanisms with neural correlates in visual areas and contributions to many real-world visual problems. The study of ensemble perception includes evidence for interesting individual differences but the structure of abilities is unclear, with a need for multivariate investigation. The study of individual differences in holistic processing has been unable to establish the construct validity of its measures. Each of these areas is at a different stage of understanding relevant underlying abilities, each one helping to illustrate different challenges that may be unfamiliar to experimentalists.
Association between energy intake patterns and outcome in US heart failure patients
Authors: Fang Zhang , Wang Zhe , Cao Xiaodi , Wang Ze-Mu , Yu Chuanchuan , Ju Weizhu , Li Dianfu
Published: November 2022

Background

The association between dietary energy patterns, calories, and the outcomes of heart failure (HF) is still unclear.

Objectives

To evaluate the proper energy intake patterns and daily calorie intake in patients with heart failure among US adults.

Methods

The data were derived from the 2001–2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). A calorie intake pattern variable was created using latent class analysis (LCA) based on the calorie ratio of three major nutrients. Cox proportional hazard regression models were used to evaluate the hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) of the association between calorie intake and energy patterns. The primary endpoint was all-cause mortality.

Results

Among 991 participants (mean age 67.3 ± 12.9 years; 55.7% men) who suffered from heart failure; the median calorie intake was 1,617 kcal/day [interquartile range (IQR): 1,222–2,154 kcal/day]. In the multivariable-adjusted model, moderate malnutrition was more frequent to death (HR: 2.15; 95% CI: 1.29–3.56). Low-carbohydrate pattern (LCP) and median-carbohydrate pattern (MCP) had lower risks of death compared to high-carbohydrate pattern (HCP) (LCP: HR: 0.76; 95% CI: 0.59–0.97; MCP: HR: 0.77; 95% CI: 0.60–0.98). No association between different amounts of calorie intake and all-cause mortality was found. There was an adjusted significant interaction between calorie intake and energy intake patterns (p = 0.019). There was a linear relationship between energy intake through HCP and all-cause mortality (p for non-linear = 0.557). A non-linear relationship between energy intake through MCP and all-cause mortality (p for non-linear = 0.008) was observed.

Conclusion

Both LCP and MCP, compared to HCP, were associated with better outcomes in the HF population. The relationship between energy intake and all-cause death may be influenced by energy intake patterns in HF patients.
Case report: Left bundle branch pacing guided by real-time monitoring of current of injury and electrocardiography
Authors: Shen Jiabo , Jiang Longfu , Wu Hao , Li Hengdong , Zhong Jinyan , Pan Lifang
Published: November 2022

Background

Left bundle branch (LBB) pacing (LBBP) has recently emerged as a physiological pacing mode. Current of injury (COI) can be used as the basis for electrode fixation position and detection of perforation. However, because the intermittent pacing method cannot monitor the changes in COI in real time, it cannot obtain information about the entire COI change process during implantation.

Case summary

Left bundle branch pacing was achieved for treatment of atrioventricular block in a 76-year-old female. Uninterrupted electrocardiogram and electrogram were recorded on an electrophysiology system. In contrast to the interrupted pacing method, this continuous pacing and recording technique enables real-time monitoring of the change in ventricular COI and the paced QRS complex as the lead advances into the interventricular septum. During the entire screw-in process, the COI amplitude increased and then decreased gradually after reaching the peak, followed by a small but significant, rather than dramatic, decrease.

Conclusion

This case report aims to demonstrate the clinical significance of changes in COI and QRS morphology for LBBP using real-time electrocardiographic monitoring and filtered and unfiltered electrograms when the lead is deployed using a continuous pacing technique. The technique could be used to confirm LBB capture and avoid perforation.
Aspirin for the prevention of preeclampsia: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled studies
Authors: Wang Yixiao , Guo Xiaojun , Obore Nathan , Ding Hongjuan , Wu Chengqian , Yu Hong
Published: November 2022

Background

The results of randomized controlled studies on aspirin for the prevention of preeclampsia (PE) are conflicting, and some of the related meta-analyses also have limitations or flaws.

Data sources

A search was conducted on PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases, with no time or language restrictions.

Study eligibility criteria

Randomized controlled studies comparing aspirin for the prevention of PE were conducted.

Methods

Systematic reviews were performed according to the Cochrane Manual guidelines. A fixed-effects model or a random-effects model was chosen to calculate pooled relative risks with 95% confidence intervals based on the heterogeneity of the included studies. The study aimed to investigate the effect of aspirin on the development of PE in high-risk and general populations of women. Publication bias was assessed by funnel plots. All included studies were assessed for bias by the Cochrane Manual of Bias Assessment. Subgroup analyses were conducted on the aspirin dose, time of initial aspirin intervention, and the region in which the research was conducted, to explore the effective dose of aspirin and time of initial aspirin intervention and to try to find sources of heterogeneity and publication bias.

Results

A total of 39 articles were included, including 29 studies involving pregnant women at high risk for PE (20,133 patients) and 10 studies involving a general population of pregnant women (18,911 patients). Aspirin reduced the incidence of PE by 28% (RR 0.72, 95% CI 0.62–0.83) in women at high risk for PE. Aspirin reduced the incidence of PE by 30% in the general population (RR 0.70, 95% CI 0.52–0.95), but sensitivity analyses found that aspirin in the general population was not robust. A subgroup analysis showed that an aspirin dose of 75 mg/day (RR 0.50, 95% CI 0.32–0.78) had a better protective effect than other doses. Starting aspirin at 12–16 weeks (RR 0.62, 95% CI 0.53–0.74) of gestation or 17–28 weeks (RR 0.62, 95% CI 0.44–0.89) reduced the incidence of PE by 38% in women at high risk for PE, but the results were more reliable for use at 12–16 weeks. Heterogeneity and publication bias of the included studies may be mainly due to the studies completed in Asia.

Conclusion

Aspirin is recommended to be started at 12–16 weeks of pregnancy in women at high risk for PE. The optimal dose of aspirin to use is 75 mg/d.

Systematic review registration

[www.ClinicalTrials.gov], identifier [CRD42022319984].
Trends in research on sick sinus syndrome: A bibliometric analysis from 2000 to 2022
Authors: Zhang Xin’ai , Zhao Yong , Zhou Yutong , Lv Jiayu , Peng Jiaran , Zhu Haiyan , Liu Ruxiu
Published: November 2022

Sick sinus syndrome (SSS) is a refractory arrhythmia disease caused by the pathological changes of sinoatrial node and its adjacent tissues. 2,251 publications related to SSS were retrieved from Web of Science database from 2000 to 2022 and analyzed by using VOS viewer and CiteSpace software. The results showed the United States dominated the field, followed by Japan, Germany, and China. SSS was closely related to risk factors such as atrial fibrillation and aging. Sick sinus syndrome, atrial fibrillation and sinus node dysfunction were the top three keywords that had the strongest correlation with the study. Pacemaker implantation, differentiation and mutation are research hotspots currently. Clinical studies on SSS found that sick sinus syndrome, atrial fibrillation, and pacemakers were the top three keywords that had the largest nodes and the highest frequency. In the field of basic applied research and basic research, atrial fibrillation and pacemaker cells were the focus of research. In conclusion, bibliometric analysis provided valuable information for the prevention, treatment and future research trends of SSS.
A dynamic landslide hazard monitoring framework for the Lower Mekong Region
Authors: Biswas Nishan Kumar , Stanley Thomas A. , Kirschbaum Dalia B. , Amatya Pukar M. , Meechaiya Chinaporn , Poortinga Ate , Towashiraporn Peeranan
Published: November 2022

The Lower Mekong region is one of the most landslide-prone areas of the world. Despite the need for dynamic characterization of landslide hazard zones within the region, it is largely understudied for several reasons. Dynamic and integrated understanding of landslide processes requires landslide inventories across the region, which have not been available previously. Computational limitations also hamper regional landslide hazard assessment, including accessing and processing remotely sensed information. Finally, open-source software and modelling packages are required to address regional landslide hazard analysis. Leveraging an open-source data-driven global Landslide Hazard Assessment for Situational Awareness model framework, this study develops a region-specific dynamic landslide hazard system leveraging satellite-based Earth observation data to assess landslide hazards across the lower Mekong region. A set of landslide inventories were prepared from high-resolution optical imagery using advanced image-processing techniques. Several static and dynamic explanatory variables (i.e., rainfall, soil moisture, slope, relief, distance to roads, distance to faults, distance to rivers) were considered during the model development phase. An extreme gradient boosting decision tree model was trained for the monsoon period of 2015–2019 and the model was evaluated with independent inventory information for the 2020 monsoon period. The model performance demonstrated considerable skill using receiver operating characteristic curve statistics, with Area Under the Curve values exceeding 0.95. The model architecture was designed to use near-real-time data, and it can be implemented in a cloud computing environment (i.e., Google Cloud Platform) for the routine assessment of landslide hazards in the Lower Mekong region. This work was developed in collaboration with scientists at the Asian Disaster Preparedness Center as part of the NASA SERVIR Program’s Mekong hub. The goal of this work is to develop a suite of tools and services on accessible open-source platforms that support and enable stakeholder communities to better assess landslide hazard and exposure at local to regional scales for decision making and planning.
Follicular fluid steroid and gonadotropic hormone levels and mitochondrial function from exosomes predict embryonic development
Authors: Yu Li , Liu Miao , Xu Shiji , Wang Zhenxin , Liu Te , Zhou Jiaye , Zhang Doudou , Dong Xi , Pan Baishen , Wang Beili , Liu Suying , Guo Wei
Published: November 2022

Purpose

Human follicular fluid (FF) is a complex biological fluid that contributes to the micro-environment of oocyte development. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of steroid and gonadotropic hormones levels and mitochondrial function in embryo development during in vitro fertilization cycles.

Methods

This was a cohort study of 138 women receiving IVF/ICSI, including 136 FF samples from 109 infertile women. FF steroid and gonadotropic hormones levels were tested by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) and immunoassays. The mRNA expression levels of mitochondrial electron transport chain (ETC) complex genes from FF exosomes were detected by qPCR.

Results

Analysis of these individual FF concentrations revealed that LH and FSH concentrations were higher in follicles in which the oocyte developed into a top quality (TQ) blastocyst (LH: 9.44 ± 2.32mIU/ml, FSH: 9.32 ± 1.01mIU/ml) than those in which there was a failure of fertilization (LH: 5.30 ± 0.84mIU/ml, FSH: 6.91 ± 0.62mIU/ml). In contrast, follicular cortisone concentrations were lower for oocytes that resulted in a TQ blastocyst (12.20 ± 0.82mIU/ml). The receiver operating characteristic analysis showed that FF LH and FSH levels predicted TQ blastocyst with excellent AUC value of 0.711 and 0.747. Mitochondrial ETC complex I and III mRNA levels were increased in the FF exosomes of TQ blastocyst. Correlation analysis showed that mRNA levels of ETC complex I was positively correlated with LH and FSH levels in FF.

Conclusion

The levels of FF steroid and gonadotropic hormones from single follicle can predetermine subsequent embryo development to some extent. Furthermore, impaired exosome mitochondrial dysfunction is a potiential event that causes hormone change in embryo development.
Study on the differences of gut microbiota composition between phlegm-dampness syndrome and qi-yin deficiency syndrome in patients with metabolic syndrome
Authors: Shang Haonan , Zhang Lu , Xiao Tiegang , Zhang Li , Ruan Jun , Zhang Qiang , Liu Kaili , Yu Zhonghai , Ni Yueqiong , Wang Bing
Published: November 2022

Background

Metabolic syndrome (MS) is a group of complex medical conditions that can lead to serious cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. According to the theory of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), MS can be divided into two main subtypes termed ‘phlegm-dampness syndrome’ (TSZE) and ‘qi-yin deficiency syndrome’ (QYLX). At present, the research into intestinal microbiota of different TCM syndromes of MS and its association with clinical manifestation is lacking.

Materials and methods

Using 16S rRNA sequencing, we performed a cross-sectional analysis of human gut microbiota between two different TCM syndromes (QYLX and TSZE, n=60) of MS, and their differences with healthy participants (n=30).

Results

We found that the QYLX and TSZE groups differ from the healthy control group in the overall gut microbiota composition, and some specific microbial taxa and functional pathways. Moreover, significantly differentially abundant taxa and distinct BMI-correlated taxa were observed between QYLX and TSZE groups, suggesting the potential contribution of gut microbiota to the distinction between the two TCM syndromes. The predicted functional profiles also showed considerable differences, especially pathways related to amino acid metabolism and lipopolysaccharide synthesis.

Conclusion

Our study highlights the gut microbiota’s contribution to the differentiation between two TCM syndromes of MS and may provide the rationale for adopting different microbiota-directed treatment strategies for different TCM syndromes of MS in the future.
Cangfudaotan decoction inhibits mitochondria-dependent apoptosis of granulosa cells in rats with polycystic ovarian syndrome
Authors: Jiang Xiao-lin , Tai He , Xiao Xuan-si , Zhang Shi-yu , Cui Shi-chao , Qi Shu-bo , Hu Dan-dan , Zhang Li-na , Kuang Jin-song , Meng Xian-sheng , Li Shun-min
Published: November 2022

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a universal endocrine and metabolic disorder prevalent in reproductive aged women. PCOS is often accompanied with insulin resistance (IR) which is an essential pathological factor. Although there is no known cure for PCOS, cangfudaotan (CFDT) decoction is widely used for the treatment of PCOS; nevertheless, the underlying mechanism is not clear. In this study, 40 Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats (female) were randomized to 4 groups, namely the control group, PCOS group, PCOS+CFDT group, and PCOS+metformin group. The rats in the control group were fed a normal-fat diet, intraperitoneally injected with 0.5% carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC, 1 mL/kg/d) for 21 days and orally given saline (1 mL/kg/d) for the next 4 weeks. The rats in the PCOS group, PCOS+CFDT group, and PCOS+Metformin group were fed a high-fat diet (HFD) and intraperitoneally injected with letrozole (1.0 mg/kg) for 21 days. During this period, we recorded the body weight, estrous cycles, and rate of pregnancy in all rats. We also observed the ovarian ultrastructure. Blood glucose indices, serum hormones, and inflammatory factors were also recorded. Then, we detected apoptotic and mitochondrial function, and observed mitochondria in ovarian granular cells by transmission electron microscopy. We also detected genes of ASK1/JNK pathway at mRNA and protein levels. The results showed that CFDT alleviated pathohistological damnification and apoptosis in PCOS rat model. In addition, CFDT improved ovarian function, reduced inflammatory response, inhibited apoptosis of granular cells, and inhibited the operation of ASK1/JNK pathway. These findings demonstrate the occurrence of ovary mitochondrial dysfunction and granular cell apoptosis in PCOS. CFDT can relieve mitochondria-dependent apoptosis by inhibiting the ASK1/JNK pathway in PCOS rats.
Neonatal outcomes and congenital malformations in children born after progestin-primed ovarian stimulation protocol
Authors: Li Danjun , Hu Zhijie , Chen Qiuju , Chai Weiran , Cai Renfei , Kuang Yanping , Lu Xuefeng
Published: November 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to assess the safety of progestin-primed ovarian stimulation (PPOS) protocol regarding the neonatal outcomes and congenital malformations in babies born after in vitro fertilization (IVF) and frozen embryo transfer (FET).

Methods

In this large retrospective cohort study, a total of 16,493 infants born between 1 September 2013 and 31 July 2021 from IVF and FET cycles after treatment with either PPOS (n = 15,245) or gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonist (GnRH-ant) (n = 1,248) were finally enrolled. The primary outcome measure was the incidence of congenital malformations. The secondary outcome measures were rates of low birth weight (LBW), very low birth weight (VLBW), preterm birth (PTB), very preterm birth (VPTB), and early neonatal death.

Results

Birth characteristics for both singletons and twins regarding the sex of infants, gestational age, birth weight, and birth length were comparable between the PPOS group and the GnRH-ant group. Rates of LBW, VLBW, PTB, VPTB, and early neonatal death were also similar. The reanalysis using propensity score matching (PSM) and multivariable logistic regression indicated that the PPOS protocol could not increase the risk of adverse neonatal outcomes compared with the GnRH-ant protocol. Furthermore, no significant difference was observed in the overall incidence of congenital malformations in live-born babies. After PSM and controlling for all confounders, the results remained insignificant with an adjusted odds ratio of 0.66 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.32–1.34] and 2.43 [95% CI 0.97–6.06], respectively, for singletons and twins.

Conclusions

Our study suggests that compared with GnRH-ant treatment for IVF, the PPOS protocol could not produce a negative effect on the newborn population in terms of neonatal outcomes and congenital malformations.
Clean energy technology pathways from research to commercialization: Policy and practice case studies
Authors: Engel-Cox Jill A. , Merrill Wyatt G. , Mapes Marie K. , McKenney Ben C. , Bouza Antonio M. , DeMeo Edgar , Hubbard Mary , Miller Eric L. , Tusing Richard , Walker Brian J.
Published: November 2022

Clean energy research and development (R and D) leading to commercial technologies is vital to economic development, technology competitiveness, and reduced environmental impact. Over the past 30 years, such efforts have advanced technology performance and reduced cost by leveraging network effects and economies of scale. After demonstrating promise in applied R and D, successful clean energy and energy efficiency technologies are incorporated into an initial product sold by the private sector. Despite its importance, processes by which first commercialization occurs are difficult to generalize while capturing specific insights from practitioners in markets and technologies. This paper presents a policy-focused qualitative assessment of the first commercialization of four diverse energy technologies: thin film photovoltaics, wind turbine blades, dual-stage refrigeration evaporators, and fuel cells for material handling equipment. Each technology presents distinct value propositions, markets, and regulatory drivers. The case studies indicate three common characteristics of successful first commercialization for new energy technologies: 1) good fit between the technology, R&D infrastructure, and public-private partnership models; 2) high degree of alignment of government regulations and R&D priorities with market forces; and 3) compatibility between time scales required for R&D, product development, and opportunities. These findings may inform energy investment decision-making, maximize benefits from R&D, and advance the transition to a low-emission future.
An open access tool for exploring machine learning model choice for battery life cycle prediction
Authors: Schauser Nicole S. , Lininger Christianna N. , Leland Eli S. , Sholklapper Tal Z.
Published: November 2022

Early and accurate battery lifetime predictions could accelerate battery R&D and product development timelines by providing insights into performance after only a few days or weeks of testing rather than waiting months to reach degradation thresholds. However, most machine learning (ML) models are developed using a single dataset, leaving unanswered questions about the broader applicability and potential impact of such models for other battery chemistries or cycling conditions. In this work, we take advantage of the open-access cycling performance data within the recently released Voltaiq Community to determine the extensibility of a highly cited feature-based linear ML model used for battery lifetime prediction. We find that the model is unable to extrapolate to different datasets, with severe model overfitting resulting in unphysical lifetime predictions of much of the unseen data. We further identify that the features engineered for this model are likely specific to the degradation mode for the original lithium iron phosphate (LFP) fast-charge dataset and are unable to capture the lifetime behavior of other cathode chemistries and cycling protocols. We provide an open access widget-based Jupyter Notebook script that can be used to explore model training and lifetime prediction on data within the Voltaiq Community platform. This work motivates the importance of using larger and more diverse datasets to identify ML model boundaries and limitations, and suggests training on larger and diverse datasets is required to develop data features that can predict a broader set of failure modes.
Design of a bidirectional DC/DC converter for a hybrid electric drive system with dual-battery storing energy
Authors: Venkata Govardhan Rao Kambhampati , Kumar Malligunta Kiran , Goud B. Srikanth , Bajaj Mohit , Abou Houran Mohamad , Kamel Salah
Published: November 2022

Electric vehicles are projected to play an important role in the present and ensuing transportation as global environmental and energy issues become more serious. Looking into the growing popularity of electric vehicles, we need to pay even more attention to battery energy storage systems. Electric vehicles in the traditional sense rely on a battery to provide electricity. Influential requirements (acceleration and braking) will deteriorate the battery, or it may not be feasible to use it at all in some instances, due to the battery’s compactness. This paper proposes a Bidirectional DC/DC Converter topology and investigates its operation modes. The proposed converter can be used in hybrid electric vehicles. Hybrid electric vehicles use this converter type to connect a primary battery (ES1), an extra battery (ES2), and an adjustable voltage bus. Both step-up (i.e., Dual-source low-voltage powering mode) and step-down (i.e., energy-regenerating high-voltage dc-link mode) modes of operation are possible with the proposed converter, allowing bidirectional power flow. Furthermore, the model can handle the flow of electricity between any two low-voltage sources. For the proposed Bidirectional DC/DC Converter, two ways of power transmission, circuit design, and operation modes are analyzed. A MATLAB-Simulink model of the proposed, and the system is developed based on a Digital Signal Processor flow chart, and the results of the simulation as well as the performance of the system are discussed.
Effect of natural hazards on the household financial asset allocation: Empirical analysis based on CHFS2019 data
Authors: Liu Tingyi , Li Jie , Li Dongju
Published: November 2022

Natural hazards are a common challenge to human survival and development. China is a country, that is, prone to natural hazards because of its vast territory and vast area. In fact, China is one of the countries most affected by natural hazards. The impact of natural hazards is often multidimensional, and the occurrence of natural hazards can have a dramatic impact on government finances and household property structures. However, existing research in China has mainly focused on individual factors and the household level, and there are gaps in the impact of natural hazards on the economic status of households. Based on the China Household Finance Survey-2019 (CHFS) data, this paper investigates the impact of natural hazards on household financial asset allocation using the Probit and Tobit models and the propensity score matching method. It is found that: the occurrence of natural hazards significantly reduces the likelihood of households’ investment in stocks and risky assets; older, more economically advanced, and better educated household heads are more willing to make risky investments; and households with lower financial literacy are more affected by natural hazards in terms of investment in risky financial assets than those with high financial literacy. Therefore, it is necessary for the government to do pre-disaster prevention and post-disaster reconstruction, and further improve the social security mechanism and optimize the risk management system, so that more households can participate in the financial market and thus obtain higher investment returns.