bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating the cradle-to-gate Environmental Impact and cooling performance of Advanced Daytime Radiative Cooling Materials to Establish a Comparative Framework for a Novel Photonic Meta-Concrete
Authors: ADAMS NICK , Carlosena Laura , Allacker karen
Published: July 2024

Background
By the end of 2050, it is expected that 68% of the population will live in urban areas. A higher density of people living in cities generates an increased urban heat island. Radiative cooling (RC) materials are proposed as a key strategy to mitigate global warming and urban heating. The Horizon 2020 project MIRACLE aims at developing a new RC material based on conventional concrete.
This paper presents a framework developed for comparing both the cradle-to-gate environmental impact and cooling potential of the newly developed photonic meta-concrete (or any other new RC material) with existing RC materials. The framework is applied to various RC materials using the generic Ecoinvent v3.6 database. The impact assessment method is in line with the Belgian life cycle assessment method for buildings and covers the 15 environmental impact categories of the EN15804:A2. The cooling performance is assessed by implementing the material spectral emissivity into a thermal model for Brussels and Madrid.
Results
Collecting sufficient data to model the state-of-the-art RC materials is challenging, requiring numerous data points on materials, production, and performance, leading to many assumptions due to a lack of data. The study showed that the sputtering process contributes over 75% to the environmental impact of several materials, while materials which do not use this process, have significantly lower impacts. The assessment of the cooling potential showed that convection heat gains make it difficult to create an all-year round cooling material. The comparison with a conventional building material, a concrete roof tile, hence shows great potential for these RC materials as heating gains during summer are significantly reduced. Analysing cooling performance alongside environmental impact, the study identified two RC materials as the most preferred in both Brussels and Madrid, considering their lower environmental impact and superior performance.
Conclusions
A standardised way to asses and benchmark RC materials based on their cradle-to-gate environmental impact and cooling performance was lacking. For the first time, a comparison for RC materials considering these characteristics is presented. This comparison identified the most competitive RC materials, which will serve as benchmarks for the newly developed photonic meta-concrete.
The Effect of Active Cycle of Breathing Technique With Threshold Imt Device on Functional Capacity Among Bronchial Asthma Patients
Authors: R Janani , J Saravan Kumar
Published: July 2024

AIM:
The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of utilizing the active cycle of breathing technique (ACBT) with the threshold IMT device on functional capacity among bronchial asthma patients.
BACKGROUND:
Bronchial asthma is defined as a respiratory infection that causes inflammatory conditions in the bronchi that make breathing difficult. An epidemiological rate of 80% of bronchial asthma cases are affected in children and adults. The major causes of bronchial asthma are environmental factors, tobacco smoke or genetics. The clinical manifestations are breathlessness, wheezing, cough, and chest tightness. In bronchial asthma, breathing exercises and chest physiotherapy technique were found to be effective in improving the symptoms. However, an active cycle of breathing technique with a threshold IMT device on functional capacity effectively improved bronchial asthma.
METHODOLOGY:
A group of 30 participants was chosen through a convenient sampling technique, following specific criteria for inclusion and exclusion. The subjects who underwent ACBT with a threshold IMT device in both groups were trained with the protocol for 30mins 7 days per week for 12 weeks. The Study consent was obtained from the patients. The 6MWT is used as an assessment tool for evaluating outcomes.
RESULTS:
The values were statistically analysed using paired “t” test. The statistical analysis of the 6-minute walk test post-test indicated a significant improvement in the treatment group (p < 0.0001) after each week of ACBT with the threshold IMT.
CONCLUSION:
According to the study, ACBT with a threshold IMT device has proven to be effective at improving functional capacity.
Synergic effects of biochar modifier and iron nanoparticles on bioremediation of gasoil
Authors: Shamloo Fatemeh , Ebrahimi Soheila , Charati Faramarz Rostami
Published: July 2024

Bioremediation of petroleum-polluted soils is deemed nowadays extremely to remedy the soils polluted by petroleum hydrocarbons. In the study synergic impacts of two amendments included biochar and iron nanoparticles were assessed to monitor the natural polluted soil by gasoil. Contaminated soil samples were collected in a polluted site in southern Iran by gasoil about 3 mg kg− 1 of soil. Soil samples were treated with 0, 1, 5 and 10% by weight of biochar and 0, 2 and 10 g kg− 1 synthetized iron nanoparticles under the incubation at 28 ± 2°C and 70% field capacity moisture for 35 days. The samples were analyzed to measure total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) and microbial respiration rate. According to the results, the first order kinetic model fitted well with an R2 value of 0.934–0.98 for the soils treated with different levels of biochar and nanoparticles. A significant and positive correlation (r = 0.774, P < 0.01) derived from a polynomial equation was observed between cumulative respiration rate and change percentage of gasoil during biodegradation (ΔTPH). Increasing of biodegradation because of higher biochar is mainly related to improvement of circumstance for higher microbial activity, while inhibition effects of iron nanoparticles on decreasing microbial activities in 10 g kg− 1 is related to toxicity of nanoparticles on microbes. After 35 days of incubation, the highest ΔTPH was observed for 10% biochar and 2 g kg− 1 iron nanoparticles, as well this treatment showed that the greatest constant of degradation (K = 0.0628) and lowest half-life (t1/2=11.3 days). In overall, the results showed that combined remediation strategies profoundly improve the bioremediation rate by indigenous microorganisms and further studies needs to evaluate different level of iron nanoparticles or even in combined with other remediation technologies.
Chemotherapy-free treatment of VAF induces early and deep molecular response in patients with newly diagnosed Philadelphia chromosome-positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia: a prospective, single-center, single-arm, phase 2 trial
Authors: Li Mengyun , Cui Qingya , Qiu Huiying , Liu Lingling , Fu Jianxin , Li Zheng , Chen Sifan , Yu Yan , Cen Jiannong , Sheng Hongjie , Pan Jinlan , Zhu Mingqing , Zhu Xiaming , Wang Ying , Chen Suning , Wu Depei , Tang Xiaowen
Published: July 2024

Background

Preclinical studies suggest that venetoclax and azacitidine have anti-leukemic activity in Philadelphia Chromosome-Positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Ph+ALL) and may synergize with TKIs. Accordingly, we performed a prospectively trial to investigate the efficacy and safety of the combination of venetoclax, azacitidine and flumatinib (VAF) in newly diagnosed adult patients with Ph+ALL.
Methods
Patients aged 18-65 years with a confirmed diagnosis of newly diagnosed Ph+ALL were eligible for inclusion in this investigator-initiated, single-center, single arm, phase 2 trail. The primary endpoint was complete molecular response (CMR) rate after two cycles of VAF. Secondary end points included adverse events (AEs), overall survival (OS), relapse-free survival (RFS), and cumulative incidence of relapse (CIR).
Results
Twenty patients were enrolled. 18 (94.7%) patients had major molecular response (MMR) or better after two cycles of VAF, and the CMR rate was 78.9%. Meanwhile, VAF was well tolerated with mild myelosuppression and rapid recovery of hemopoiesis. Common hematologic AEs ≥grade 3 were neutropenia (9 [45%]), thrombocytopenia (4 [20%]), anemia (3 [15%]) in cycle 1. The median time for thrombocytopenia, anaemia and neutropenia recovery were 2, 2.5 and 4 days, respectively. Patients received the second cycle of VAF in Day ward, except 2 (11%) were hospitalized for pneumonia and transfusion supports. With a median follow-up of 15.9 months (range 8.9-22.8 months), the estimated 2-year OS, RFS, and CIR were 88.7%, 77.5% and 22.5%, respectively.
Conclusion
The chemotherapy-free combination of venetoclax, azacitidine and flumatinib induced rapid and deep responses in newly diagnosed adult patients with Ph+ALL. In addition, VAF may also provide a Day-Clinic treatment modality for induction and early consolidation in Ph+ALL patients due to its well-tolerance.
Trial registration
ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05433532.
Spatiotemporal distribution and ecological factors of brucellosis among children from 2016 to 2020 in Inner Mongolia, China Short Title： Epidemiological characteristics of brucellosis in children
Authors: Wang Yideng , Zheng Huiqiu , Wang Yanling , Wang Xinyan , Wang Xuemei
Published: July 2024

Objective: In recent years, the increasing incidence of brucellosis in children has become more serious in recent years, however, relatively few studies have been conducted to characterize the spatialtemporal distribution of brucellosis in children. This study aimed to analyze the spatiotemporal distribution characteristics and ecological influencing factors of brucellosis incidence among children in Inner Mongolia.
Methods: Using reported incidence data for brucellosis in children aged 0-14 years in Inner Mongolia from 2016 to 2020, the spatiotemporal distribution of childhood brucellosis through Bayesian model and a geographically-weighted regression model was used to analyze ecological factors affecting brucellosis incidence in children.
Result: Bayesian spatiotemporal analysis indicated that the highest brucellosis risk and increased disease incidence were observed in Hinggan, Inner Mongolia,in children aged 0-14 years. Alxa had the lowest risk but the incidence rate increased rapidly. The incidence of childhood brucellosis was positively associated with the number of sheep at the year-end (β: 2.590940~ 2.592615, P<0.01), average temperature (β: 2.897817~ 2.902964, P<0.05), and precipitation level (β: 3.326089~ 3.326833, P<0.01).
Conclusion: Brucellosis in children needs urgent attention. From 2016 to 2020, the overall incidence of brucellosis in children in Inner Mongolia showed an upward trend, with cases exhibiting spatial aggregation. While we are concerned about areas at high risk of brucellosis in children, we should also be concerned about areas where the incidence is rising fast. The number of sheep at the end of the year, average temperature, and precipitation were ecological factors that affected the incidence of childhood brucellosis.
Clinical Characteristics, Risk Factors, and Management Strategies of Postoperative Recurrence in Thoracolumbar Tuberculosis
Authors: Liang Lichuan , Zhao Chen , Luo Lei , Liu Liehua , Li Pei , Zhou Qiang
Published: July 2024

Objective
To investigate the clinical characteristics and identify risk factors of postoperative recurrence in thoracolumbar tuberculosis, aiming to assess clinical significance and propose management strategies.
Methods
Retrospective review of 69 patients' medical records with postoperative recurrence of thoracolumbar tuberculosis from 2006 to 2019, including demographics, clinical presentations, radiographic data, drug susceptibility, laboratory results, and recurrence patterns.
Results
The study included 40 males and 29 females, with a mean age of 36.1 ± 14.2 years at initial surgery and 37.5 ± 14.5 years at recurrence. Manifestations included pain (55.1%), sinus tracts (47.8%), and neurological deficits (37.7%). Radiographic assessments showed paravertebral (89.9%) and flowing abscesses (37.7%). Drug resistance was present in 41.5% of cases. Inflammatory markers were elevated in most patients, with anemia and hypoalbuminemia frequently observed. Most recurrences occurred within 24 months post-surgery, with a maximum interval of 84 months, and 37.7% had multiple recurrences.
Conclusion
Postoperative recurrence in thoracolumbar tuberculosis is multifactorial, linked to drug-resistant tuberculosis, inconsistent medication adherence, poor nutrition, inadequate immobilization, and systemic tuberculosis infections. Optimal postoperative surveillance and clinical management necessitate a focus on inflammatory markers, advanced imaging, diligent patient education, and rigorous follow-up to diminish recurrence rates and enhance patient outcomes.
Phytoplankton variable stoichiometry modifies key biogeochemical fluxes and the functioning of the ocean biological pump
Authors: Wiseman Nicola , Moore Jefferson Keith , Martiny Adam , Letscher Robert
Published: July 2024

Ocean biota take up carbon in surface waters and export some of it to the ocean interior (the biological pump), modifying surface carbon concentrations, air-sea CO2 exchange, and thus, Earth's climate. The growth of marine phytoplankton is often limited by one of several key nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, iron, silicon), and the efficiency of carbon export is constrained by nutrient availability, and the nutrient/carbon ratios in the biota (stoichiometry). Recent field observations suggest widespread variability in phytoplankton stoichiometry (C/N/P/Fe/Si). We show that accounting for phytoplankton dynamic stoichiometry dramatically shifts the magnitude and spatial patterns of carbon export by the biological pump, relative to a model with fixed ratios. Not accounting for dynamic stoichiometry also leads to increases in atmospheric CO2, thereby underestimating the ocean carbon inventory. Thus, Earth System Models (ESMs) must account for dynamic plankton stoichiometry to make accurate projections of the carbon cycle and climate. Further research is needed to better constrain environmental controls on the stoichiometry of exported organic matter, particularly ecosystem-level processing of organic matter initially produced by the phytoplankton.
The complete mitochondrion genome of Colpomenia sinuosa and phylogenetic analysis
Authors: Fu Y iwen , Miao Jinlai , Zhang Yuanyuan
Published: July 2024

Colpomenia sinuosa plays an important role in marine ecosystem and biological resource utilization. The total length of mitochondrion genome was 39,055 bp in length and consists of a circular DNA molecule. The circular genome is composed of 66 genes, including 38 protein coding genes, 25 tRNA genes, and 3 rRNA genes.The total content of G + C is 32.01%, lower than that of A + T. Phylogenetic analysis confirmed the position of C. sinuosa within Pleurocladia lacustris, which offer valuable insights into the phylogeny and gene functions within the family Stramenopiles and promote novel references for the genetic and phylogenetic research of C. sinuosa through the provision of these data.
Assessment of Implementation of Weekly Multidisciplinary Team Decisions for Pediatrics Solid Tumor Patients at SPHMMC, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: 1year &8 month review
Authors: Hailu Tadele , Abebe Abeba Mengesha , Dinkiye Mamude
Published: July 2024

Background
Multidisciplinary team (MDT) is recognized as the best practice in the treatment planning and care for patients with cancer. MDT provides a comprehensive care for pediatric cancer patients that results in reduced treatment delays, improved care processes, improved treatment outcome, higher adherence to guidelines and enhanced support for both patients and their families. Here, we assess the implementation of MDT decision in SPHMMC for pediatrics solid Tumor patients and identify barriers to its effective implementation and provide valuable inputs that help to increase the Effectiveness of the implementation made.
Methods
institution based cross sectional study was conducted among patients discussed on MDT from April 2022 to December 2023. Data was collected using Data abstraction sheet from MDT format followed by review of medical records. Descriptive analysis was used to describe the percentages and number distributions of the variables in the study.
Result
A total of 148 MDT cases were included in the study. The average age of presentation was 3.7 years & most came from oromia region, followed by Addis Ababa. Retinoblastoma was the most commonly discussed cancer, followed by Wilms tumor, rhabdomyosarcoma, germ cell tumors and Hodkins lymphoma. 113 (76.3%) of the cases were discussed for the first time & 212 distinct management decisions were reached, of which 156(73.6%) were subsequently implemented. Decisions on follow up and palliative care followed by chemotherapy, EUA, surgery and Consults/ communications to other departments were most likely to be successfully enacted. Imaging, pathology testing & refer recommendations were less likely to be carried out. Absence of modality for the implementation of MDT decision made in the current set up is the major reason for non implemented MDT decisions, followed by illness and financial reasons. Timely implementation of MDT decisions was made for chemotherapy, Pathologic testing, EUA and consultation to other departments. Surgical decisions and cystoscopic biopsy took longer duration for implementation.
Conclusions
MDT discussions are the standard of care for patients with cancer worldwide. Adaptation of MDT discussions as a routine of care for pediatrics solid tumor patients is a major step up for improving the quality of care given in SPHMMC. All cancan centers in the country should also incorporate this standard of care into their practice. The success of the MDT discussion can further be augmented by increasing the accessibility of important modalities of diagnosis & treatment as genetic testing, intraarterial chemotherapy & radiotherapy respectively. Raising Public awareness on the benefits of community based health insurance will also help in relieving the financial burden and increase effectiveness of care given.
Utilizing Multimodal Satellite Imagery for Enhanced Mangrove Species Classification by using Label Distribution Learning
Authors: Felegari Shilan , Moravej Kamran , Sharifi Alireza , Dansh-Yazdi Mohammad
Published: July 2024

Mangrove ecosystems, situated in the intertidal zones of the sea, harbor a rich diversity of plant and animal species that thrive in coastal and lagoon environments. This study aims to enhance our comprehension of the intricacies within Qeshm Island's mangrove forests, located in southern Iran, through an analysis of data collected from Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) and optical sensors. Employing label distribution learning (LDL), a machine learning approach, this research endeavors to delineate and classify various mangrove forest types in the region. Leveraging Sentinel-1 dual-polarimetric SAR and Sentinel-2 multispectral imagery, the study evaluates six LDL algorithms, including PT-Bayes, PT-SVMs, AA-KNN, AA-BPNN, SA-IIS, and SA-BFGS, to ascertain their accuracy in classifying both pure and mixed classes. Results highlight the robust performance of LDL classification, particularly in areas exhibiting diverse species compositions, with SA-BFGS emerging as the most effective algorithm. These findings offer valuable insights into the identification of distinct mangrove communities based on their spectral and polarimetric characteristics, thereby aiding in the strategic management and conservation of these vital ecosystems.
A novel Self-Biased pMOS Clamped Deep Trench CSTBT with Enhanced Short-Circuit Capability
Authors: Guo Jianbin , Qian Zhehong , Chen Xinru , Xu Hang , Yang Yafen , Zhang David Wei
Published: July 2024

In this work, a novel deep trench CSTBT (DT-CSTBT) features emitter trench and the P-layer is proposed and investigated by simulation. The self-biased pMOS, comprising an emitter trench, N-CS layer, P-layer, and P-well, demonstrates an excellent clamping effect potential. The proposed DT-CSTBT suppresses the saturation current under the clamping effect, resulting in a 23.5% expansion of the short-circuit safe operating area (SCSOA). It ensures the better reliability of the gate due to the high electric field away from the gate. Furthermore, the tradeoff relationship between on-state voltage (Von) and turn-off loss (Eoff) of the new structure is also improved by 23.2% compared with the conventional CSTBT.
Protein Level Ratios as Causal Factors in Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis: Insights from a Two-Sample Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Zhou Jie , Xu Yixin , Wang Haitao , Wang Kun , Chen Chao
Published: July 2024

Background
Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (PSC) currently lacks effective biomarkers and therapeutic targets. The study of protein level ratios may offer new insights for addressing this challenge.
Methods
The summary statistics for PSC in this study was sourced from the International PSC Study Group, encompassing 2,871 PSC patients and 12,019 control participants. Protein quantitative trait loci data were sourced from the Olink proteomics platform, facilitating the identification of 2,821 significant protein level ratios. Furthermore, we conducted a Mendelian Randomization analysis to explore the causal relationship between the two factors, applying a stringent Bonferroni correction threshold of 1.77E-5. The primary analytical method employed was the Inverse Variance Weighted (IVW) approach, which was further reinforced by comprehensive heterogeneity analyses, horizontal pleiotropy testing, outlier detection, and “leave-one-out” sensitivity analysis.
Results
We identified a positive causal association between the protein level ratios of Low-Density Lipoprotein Receptor-Related Protein 11/ Nectin Cell Adhesion Molecule 2 (IVW odds ratio (OR): 1.84; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.40–2.41, P = 1.07E-05) and Tumor Necrosis Factor Receptor Superfamily Member 13B/ Tumor Necrosis Factor Receptor Superfamily Member 9 (IVW OR: 2.72, 95% CI: 1.77–4.19, P = 5.56E-06) and the risk of PSC. Conversely, the protein level ratios of Lymphotoxin Alpha/ Lymphotoxin Beta Receptor (IVW OR: 0.50, 95% CI: 0.43–0.58, P = 7.58E-20) and Nectin Cell Adhesion Molecule 2/ Tumor Necrosis Factor Receptor Superfamily Member 14 (IVW OR: 0.55, 95% CI: 0.44–0.69, P = 2.17E-07) were found to have an inverse causal relationship with the risk of PSC. Significantly, all analyses demonstrated a lack of horizontal pleiotropy and heterogeneity.
Conclusion
These results identify potential new biomarkers for PSC diagnosis and suggest targets for treatment, laying the groundwork for future drug development.
Development and Initial Validation of the Health-Related Quality of Life Pictorial Inventory for Children (HEALTH-PIC)
Authors: Tang Tracy Chor Wai , Wong Mun , Li Jianbin , Chan Derwin King Chung
Published: July 2024

Objective
This 3-study paper aimed to develop and validate a self-reported health-related quality of life pictorial inventory for early childhood children. The scale was designed to overcome existing barriers of parent-proxy response styles and offers an alternative to age-suited literary questionnaires to assess self-reported health-related quality of life, including physical health, emotional health, social health and school health in early childhood.
Methods
Following an established protocol in the literature of pictorial scales, this 3-study paper leads to the development and validation of the Health-related Quality of Life Pictorial Inventory for Children (HEALTH-PIC). Study 1 involved item development/revision, which utilized a panel of 10 experts and 25 parents via the Delphi method to revise the scale and establish agreement. Study 2 invited a sample of 22 primary school students and 20 kindergarten students to establish face validity amongst primary respondents. Finally, Study 3 invited 342 parent and child dyads to complete the HEALTH-PIC and reference health-related quality of life (HRQoL) questionnaires to establish the questionnaire’s factorial, concurrent, discriminant and criterion validity in addition to internal consistency.
Results
In Study 1, scale items were developed alongside experts and parents with a strong theoretical and statistical support, ensuring that the items were clear, accurate and applicable for children (Aiken’s V p < .05). In Study 2, we ensured that primary respondents of different ages (kindergarten and primary school children) were able to accurately identify the pictorial images (Aiken’s V p < .05) and complete the questionnaire when the scripted instructions were read aloud. In Study 3, structural equation modelling of the HEALTH-PIC demonstrated a robust factor structure (CFI and TLI > .99; RMSEA and SRMR ≤ .08), concurrent validity (p < .001), discriminant validity (AVE < shared variance), criterion validity (p < .001) and an acceptable level of internal consistency (i.e., Cronbach’s α = .60 − .66).
Conclusion
Overall, the findings of the three studies provide preliminary evidence to support the content validity and construct validity of the HEALTH-PIC. This novel pictorial scale not only provides a reliable and valid assessment of the multidimensional aspects of health-related quality of life among children but can also overcome existing barriers of parent-proxy or age-suited questionnaires.
Corporate tax avoidance under economic policy uncertainty. Does the quality of institutional governance matter?
Authors: Magerakis Efstathios
Published: July 2024

This study examines the effect of economic policy uncertainty (EPU) on corporate tax avoidance using a comprehensive sample of 236,455 private firm-year observations from Greece for the period 2015-2021. Employing effective tax rate (ETR) as a proxy for tax avoidance, we find a positive and significant relationship between EPU and ETR. This finding suggests that, as economic policy uncertainty increases, firms engage in less tax avoidance, resulting in higher effective tax rates. This result is robust to alternative model specifications, endogeneity tests, weighted least squares, and subsample analyses. Additionally, the positive relationship between economic policy uncertainty (EPU) and effective tax rates is stronger when the governance quality is high. Firms facing higher EPU adopt conservative tax strategies to mitigate regulatory risks, which results in higher effective tax rates. The effect of EPU on ETR persists for up to five years, implying that firms continue their long-term tax planning in response to policy uncertainty. Furthermore, we reveal that the impact of economic policy uncertainty on firm performance is more prominent for firms with higher effective tax rates, highlighting the potential consequences of reducing tax obligations in times of increased uncertainty. Additional tests reveal that the positive association between EPU and ETR is driven by various components of policy uncertainty, including economic, political, financial, debt, tax, monetary, and pandemic-related uncertainties. Moreover, we find that the World Pandemic Uncertainty Index is negatively associated with ETR, indicating that firms respond differently to pandemic-induced uncertainty compared to general EPU. Our research adds to the existing body of knowledge by offering fresh insights into how policy unpredictability influences corporate tax avoidance strategies within a European context marked by significant economic volatility.
JEL Classification: G18; G32; H26; M40
Investigations on the physical characteristics, electrical conductivity, and dielectric properties of erythrosine B and polyvinyl alcohol composited films
Authors: El-Zaidia E. F.M. , Ali H. A.M. , Darwish A. A.A. , Shakra A. M.
Published: July 2024

Erythrosine B/PVA polymeric composite films were prepared with different concentrations of Erythrosine B (EB). The crystal structure of Erythrosine B /PVA films was identified by X-ray diffraction patterns (XRD). The frequency (100 Hz - 1 MHz) reliance on both dielectric constant (ε1) and dielectric loss (ε2) was investigated. Both ε1 and ε2 of Erythrosine B/PVA polymeric composite films decreased with increasing frequency and increased by rising percent EB wt%. The ac conductivity of erythrosine B/PVA films showed increased behavior by raising both frequency and temperature. Moreover, frequency exponent (s) values were calculated and then discussed according to the CBH system, which is the fundamental model. Values of the maximum barrier height (WM) and ac Activation energy (∆Eac) were calculated for the different concentrations of wt% EB in investigated films. ∆Eac decreased from 95 to 17 meV for 1wt% EB and 4 wt% EB, respectively.
Comparative Analysis of Two Methods in Fine-Grained Activity Recognition for Ambient Assisted Living
Authors: Doukaga Habba’s Ngodjou , Rakotoarson Noro Haritiana Louisiane Randrianarivelo , Roberge Alex , Aubin-Moreau Gabriel , Fortin Pascal , Maitre Julien , Bouchard Bruno
Published: July 2024

The swift progression of artificial intelligence, along with the rising demand for in-home assistance for individuals facing a loss of autonomy, has driven a significant increase in research within the domain of ambient assisted living (AAL). A key challenge challenge in developing assistive technologies in an AAL context concerns the automatic recognition of the ongoing user’s activity. Most existing approaches of Human Activity Recognition (HAR) use a level of abstraction (low granularity) that is insufficient for developing efficient assistive technologies. The majority of them focus primarily on identifying broad categories of activities, such as eating or sleeping. While this identification is sufficient for monitoring general behavior, it does not enable providing practically meaningful real-time, actionable assistance. In this paper, we propose a comparative study of two novel algorithmic approaches for hand gesture recognition, intended to serve as core components of a fine-grained activity recognition model. To this end, we have defined thirteen atomic hand gestures commonly used in cooking activities. The first model we introduce utilizes inertial data, collected from a standard wristband equipped with a triaxial accelerometer and gyroscope, and applies machine learning techniques for analysis. The second model is based on a less conventional approach, employing photoplethysmography (PPG) sensors, which are rarely used for activity recognition. We detail the design and implementation of both approaches and the conducted experiments. Finally, we present a comparative analysis of the obtained results showing the potential of such approaches for the AAL.
The relationship between social media and healthy eating among the elderly in the community: mediated by e-health literacy and moderated by aging attitude
Authors: Wang Hongyu , LYU Quanhuize , Chen Xi , Wu Haibo
Published: July 2024

Purpose
This study aimed to explore the relationship between social media use and healthy eating behaviors of elderly people in the community, with particular attention to the mediating role of e-health literacy and the moderating role of aging attitudes.
Methods
Data were collected by conducting a cross-sectional survey of 558 older adults in five communities in different cities in China. The survey tools were modified Facebook single item Scale, Electronic Health Literacy Scale (eHEALS), Aging Attitude Scale (ATOA) and Healthy Eating Scale. In the data analysis, methods such as stepwise regression analysis were used to examine the relationship between social media use and healthy eating behaviors of the elderly, the mediating role of e-health literacy, and the moderating role of aging attitudes.
Results
The study found that social media use was positively associated with healthy eating behaviors in older adults. E-health literacy plays a significant mediating role between social media use and healthy eating behaviors in older adults. In addition, aging attitudes significantly moderated the relationship between social media use and healthy eating behaviors, and positive aging attitudes enhanced the positive effects of social media use on healthy eating behaviors.
Conclusions
Both social media use and e-health literacy are important for promoting the development of healthy eating in older adults. At the same time, promoting the elderly to have a positive attitude toward aging is also a key factor.
The impact of digital technology on innovation efficiency of marine biomedical industry
Authors: Fu Xiu-Mei , Gao Meng , Liu Ying , Li Jing-Hang , Zhao Kun , Lin Chun-Yu
Published: July 2024

As an important strategic emerging industry for building a strong maritime nation, the enhancement of its industrial R&D and innovation capability are always the key driving force for the high-quality development of the marine biomedical industry (MBI). Under the vigorously development of digital economy, the application of digital technology (DT) brings new impetus to the innovation development of MBI. So it is necessary to explore the impact of DT on the innovation efficiency of MBI (MBIIE). Taking eleven coastal provinces and cities as an example, this paper measures the development level of DT (DTTL) with entropy method, and the MBIIE with SBM model. On this basis, it empirically test the impact of DT on the MBIIE by constructing benchmark regression, mediation effect, and moderating effect models. The study results shows that DT can significantly enhance the MBIIE by optimizing the allocation of capital and labor resources, and improving the degree of marketization of factors and products; government attention to DT can positively modulate the effect of DT on MBIIE. This study could help enrich the empirical evidence of the impact of DT on the MBIIE at the theoretical level. And it could provide corresponding countermeasures at the practical level to further promote the MBIIE empowered by DT.
Phylogenetic study of Lythraceae family in Iran, focusing on the genera Lythrum, Ammannia, and Rotala
Authors: Mahmoodi Rana , Faghir Marzieh Beygom , Shavvon Robabeh Shahi
Published: July 2024

The family Lythraceae, belonging to the order Myrtales, comprises approximately 28 genera and 700 species of trees, shrubs, and herbs distributed in various regions of the world, especially in tropical and temperate regions. A phylogenetic study based on cpDNA trnH-psbA, nrDNA ITS, and combined sequences datasets were evaluated using maximum parsimony, Bayesian, and maximum likelihood methods. Most of the reconstructed trees revealed the monophyly of the three genera Lythrum, Ammannia, and Rotala in Iran. All trees supported the distinctiveness of species within these three genera. Additionally, the phylogenetic trees of the present study demonstrated the early divergence of Lythrum species on the lower branches and the derivation of Ammannia species on the higher clades and Rotala species on the terminal clades. The results of the phylogenetic study revealed the close relationship of some Lythrumspecies (such as L. thesioides M. Bieb. with L. silenoides Boiss. & Noë and three species L. thymifolia L., L. junceum Banks & Sol., and L. hyssopifolia L.) and Ammannia (A. coccinea Rottb. with A. multiflora Roxb., and A. baccifera L. with A. auriculata Willd.), indicating the need for taxonomic revision.
"It just happened to be the perfect thing": Real-life experiences of generative AI chatbots for mental health
Authors: Siddals Steven , Coxon Astrid , Torous John
Published: July 2024

The global mental health crisis underscores a critical need for accessible and effective interventions. Generative artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots, such as ChatGPT, are emerging as a novel solution, but research into their real-life usage is limited. We interviewed nineteen individuals about their experiences of using generative AI chatbots to work on their mental health. Most participants reported high levels of engagement and positive impacts, including improved mood, reduced anxiety, healing from trauma and loss, and improved relationships. Our analysis resulted in four overarching themes: 1) the value of an ‘emotional sanctuary’, i.e., a safe, validating space that is always available, 2) the ‘insightful guidance’ provided, particularly on the topic of relationships, 3) the ‘joy of connection’ experienced, and 4) comparisons between the ‘AI therapist’ and human therapy. Some of these themes echo previous research on rule-based chatbots, while others appear to be novel to generative AI. Participants highlighted the need for a better approach to safety guardrails, more human-like memory and the ability to lead the therapeutic process. Our findings suggest that generative AI chatbots may offer meaningful mental health support, but further research is needed to explore their safety and effectiveness.
Transurethral microwave thermotherapy in men with prostates larger than 100 grams – A consecutive case series
Authors: Winck-Flyvholm Lilli , Marsh Anne , Fode Mikkel , Nielsen Kurt
Published: July 2024

Purpose: Transurethral microwave thermotherapy (TUMT) is well described as a treatment for lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in men with prostates between 30 and 100 grams. The purpose of this study is to describe the results of TUMT in men with prostates larger than 100 grams.
Methods: Age, prostate size, occurrence of urinary retention, and Danish Prostate Symptom Score (DAN-PSS) were registered before treatment in men with prostates exceeding 100 grams who underwent TUMT. After treatment we registered patient satisfaction, DAN-PSS and results of uroflowmetry and postvoid residual urine volume.
Results: 50 consecutive patients were included. The median age was 78 years, and the median prostate size was 126 g. Forty-four men were treated due to urinary retention and 6 due to LUTS. All treatments were performed under local anesthesia. The median duration was 15 min (range 8-32 min) and the median destruction was 25% of the prostatic volume (range 11% – 26%). Eight patients had destruction of < 20%. No side effects were noted.
Forty-nine patients completed 6-month follow-up. The 41/49 (84%) men who had tissue destruction of ≥20% reported to be satisfied. The median DAN-PSS score was 3 (range 0 – 18), the median Qmax was 12 ml/s (range 5.1 – 23.1 ml/s) and the median postvoid residual volume was 89 ml (range 0 – 331 ml). Symptoms were unchanged in the 8/49 (16%) men who had <20% tissue destruction.
Conclusion: TUMT represents a useful alternative to surgery in men with infravesical obstruction and a prostate of more than 100 grams.
The influence of different wall heating conditions on wind characteristics in street canyons
Authors: Guang-Xing He
Published: July 2024

With the validation of wind-tunnel test, the wind characteristics and temperature distribution under different wall heating conditions in street canyon were investigated by CFD simulation with RNS model using enhanced wall treatment wall function. Result reveal that wall heating scenarios made significant impact on velocity in the canyon. Whole wall heating exert greater influence on velocity than linear heating. Thermal buoyancy arising from the temperature difference between the heated wall and air in canyon have greater impact on velocity near the canyon walls. Windward wall heating decreased velocity and leeward wall heating increased velocity for most heating scenarios except for horizontal velocity in the middle area of the canyon. This work indicated that thermal buoyancy can also improve pedestrian-level ventilation to a certain extent. Different wall heating scenarios have influence on the temperature field in the street canyon. It also provides a meaningful reference for urban planning.
Cryptanalysis of a chaotic cipher with key position related to ciphertext
Authors: Zhou Rong , Yu Simin
Published: July 2024

This work performs the cryptanalysis on a chaotic cryptosystem with dynamic key whose position is related to ciphertext (DKPC). The DKPC could be equivalently transformed into a typical structure of permutation-diffusion, where permutation based on breadth-first search is dependent on static key only, while diffusion with dynamic feature is determined by an additional dynamic key of which the location is associated with ciphertext except the static one. The best innovation of DKPC lies in the introduction of dynamic key position to improve the security. However, it has been overestimated and there are still many vulnerabilities after analysis. This paper deciphers the permutation via an innovative approach first. Then the equivalent static and dynamic keys of diffusion are broken respectively by chosen-ciphertext attack. The complexity is much lower than that of cryptanalysis on other plaintext-related algorithms. Theoretical analysis and experimental results indicate that the cryptanalysis is effective and feasible.
The Hill-Langmuir Equation Governs Average Steady State of Target Occupancy for Pulsed Drug Delivery
Authors: Shi Xiaomin
Published: July 2024

Receptor occupancy is an important indicator for drug efficacy. Traditional pharmacodynamic model is constrained by assumption of rapid equilibrium, so it cannot provide a complete picture of drug action. Pulsed drug delivery is not aimed at the stability of the drug, but at accurately determining the time of dosing based on rhythm of onset. Using a minimal model, I found that the Hill-Langmuir equation which removes above assumption, can integrate pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics and can describe receptor occupancy under multiple dose regimens and pulsed drug delivery. This equation provides an optimization strategy for improving drug efficacy. For the traditional multiple dose regimen, we can optimize the elimination rate constant, association rate constant and drug-target residence time; however, for pulsed drug delivery, we can only optimize the drug-target residence time. Furthermore, using the dissociation rate constant, we are not only able to regulate binding affinity, but also control the stability of drug-target binding. And I provided two conditions must be followed in pulsed drug delivery design. These two conditions are the cost in reducing the stability of drug concentration. These results may reduce the failure rate of drug discovery.
The prelimbic cortex arbitrates memory-guided conflict resolution
Authors: Ramirez Steve , Caban-Murillo Albit , Surets Michelle , Chien Celine , Kauffman Marun , Park sarah
Published: July 2024

Balancing reward and avoidance to produce an adaptive behavior is a critical aspect of conflict resolution. Here, we investigated how mice balance reward-seeking and avoidance during memory-guided conflict resolution. Mice were trained to combine the drive to approach a reward and avoid a foot shock without compromising either goal. During training, mice learn that a light cue signals the availability of reward and an auditory cue signals the onset of a foot shock which they can avoid by stepping onto a platform. During testing, the light and auditory cues are delivered simultaneously, creating a conflict between reward-seeking and punishment avoidance. Our results demonstrate that mice learn to flexibly accommodate behavioral drives to maximize rewards while avoiding the foot shock. We then leveraged a whole-brain tissue clearing approach to identify sex-specific whole-brain activity profiles, and specifically identified the PL as a central hub. Using calcium imaging, we found PL activity signals task variables and predicts successful conflict resolution. Finally, silencing PL engrams disrupts the balance between reward seeking and avoidance behaviors. These findings reveal the PL's mechanistic role in guiding behavioral flexibility in a sex-specific manner.
Multi-Timescale Compound Oscillations in Pyramidal Neurons: Insights from a Three-Compartment Model
Authors: Zhang Feng , Lu Meili , Wei Xile
Published: July 2024

Oscillation activities are widely observed in neurons and are critical to the brain's physiological functions. A significant phenomenon among these activities is the simultaneous presence of multiple oscillations at different frequencies, referred to as compound oscillations, which are particularly evident in epileptiform activity. However, the dynamical mechanisms underlying compound oscillations remain unknown. In this study, we develop and analyze a three-compartment pyramidal neuron model to address this problem. The model incorporates somatic Na+, dendritic Ca2+ and N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA)-mediated firing behaviors, capturing the multi-timescale dynamics essential for understanding compound oscillations. Phase-plane analysis reveals that Ca2+ firing behaviors in apical dendrite are relaxation oscillations, characterized by two timescales. Using geometric singular perturbation theory, we show that NMDA and Na+ firing behaviors involve three timescales. Specifically, NMDA firing behaviors in basal dendrite manifest as square-wave bursting, accompanied by Na+ action potentials in soma. Moreover, bifurcation analysis indicates that Ca2+ firing behaviors lead to the alternation of homoclinic bifurcation and saddle-node bifurcation on an invariant cycle (SNIC), which cause the occurrence and disappearance of bursting in basal dendrite. We also explore the impact of NMDA receptor conductance on these oscillatory patterns. Simulation results validate that impairment or excessive activation of NMDA receptors can lead to pathological compound oscillations, which have significant physiological implications. These insights gained from this model not only advance our understanding of neuronal function but also have potential implications for developing therapeutic strategies for neurological disorders characterized by compound oscillations.
Network pharmacology and experimental validation of andrographolide’s renoprotective effects on diabetic nephropathy via AGEs-RAGE signaling and mitophagy pathways
Authors: Li Jing-ya , Hu Xin-xin , Yin Ying-chuan , He Jing , Xu Peng , Zhang Wang
Published: July 2024

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a severe diabetic complication, manifested by glomerulosclerosis, renal interstitial fibrosis and inflammation. Andrographolide (AD) is a natural compound with multiple pharmacological effects, such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antidiabetic, etc. However, the mechanism of AD on DN remains elusive. In this study, we integrated network pharmacology and in vitro experiments to investigate the potential targets and pathways of AD on DN, and to confirm its renoprotective effects on renal tubular epithelial cells. We screened 198 potential targets of AD and 3791 related targets of DN from public databases, and obtained 107 common targets of AD-DN. We built the protein-protein interaction network of the common targets, and performed GO and KEGG enrichment analysis, and identified 7 core targets (STAT3, IL6, PIK3CA, JUN, CASP3, MAPK1, ERBB2) and several key pathways (AGEs-RAGE signaling pathway, mitophagy, etc.) of AD-DN. We then used a high-glucose induced mouse glomerular podocyte (MPC-5) model to validate the effects of AD on DN. We found that AD could significantly reduce the cell proliferation, inflammatory factors, ROS levels, inhibit the matrix remodeling, apoptosis and autophagy of cells, and regulate the expression of core target proteins and genes of cells. Moreover, we found that STAT3 played a vital role in the process of AD treating DN, and its blockade by WP1066 could significantly weaken the renoprotective effect of AD. Our study revealed the potential mechanism of AD on DN, and provided new evidence for its clinical application.