bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quality of Service and Congestion Control in Software-Defined Networking Using Policy-Based Routing
Authors: Ali Inayat , Hong Seungwoo , Cheung Taesik
Published: October 2024

Managing queuing delays is crucial for maintaining Quality of Service (QoS) in real-time media communications. Customizing traditional routing protocols to meet specific QoS requirements—particularly in terms of minimizing delay and jitter for real-time media—can be both complex and time-intensive. Furthermore, these protocols often encounter challenges when adapted for vendor-specific hardware implementations. To address these issues, this paper leverages the programmable features of Software-Defined Networking (SDN) to simplify the process of achieving user-defined QoS, bypassing the limitations of traditional routing protocols. In this work, we propose a policy-based routing module that integrates with traditional routing protocols to ensure QoS for real-time media flows. QoS is achieved by rerouting the flow along a new low-latency path calculated by the proposed module when the queuing delay exceeds a certain threshold. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed solution significantly enhances the performance of traditional routing protocols within an SDN framework, effectively reducing the average end-to-end delay by 80% and total packet loss by 73%, while also improving jitter and alleviating network congestion.
Imbalanced Data Parameter Optimization of Convolutional Neural Networks Based on Analysis of Variance
Authors: Zou Ruiao , Wang Nan
Published: October 2024

Classifying imbalanced data is important due to the significant practical value of accurately categorizing minority class samples, garnering considerable interest in many scientific domains. This study primarily uses analysis of variance (ANOVA) to investigate the main and interaction effects of different parameters on imbalanced data, aiming to optimize convolutional neural network (CNN) parameters to improve minority class sample recognition. The CIFAR-10 and Fashion-MNIST datasets are used to extract samples with imbalance ratios of 25:1, 15:1, and 1:1. To thoroughly assess model performance on imbalanced data, we employ various evaluation metrics, such as accuracy, recall, F1 score, P-mean, and G-mean. In highly imbalanced datasets, optimizing the learning rate significantly affects all performance metrics. The interaction between the learning rate and kernel size significantly impacts minority class samples in moderately imbalanced datasets. Through parameter optimization, the accuracy of the CNN model on the 25:1 highly imbalanced CIFAR-10 and Fashion-MNIST datasets improves by 14.20% and 5.19% compared to the default model and by 8.21% and 3.87% compared to the undersampling model, respectively, while also enhancing other evaluation metrics for minority classes.
Strain Gauge Location Optimization for Operational Load Monitoring of an Aircraft Wing Using an Improved Correlation Measure
Authors: Peng Hang , Wang Bintuan , Ning Yu , Cao Shancheng , Liu Mabao
Published: October 2024

Operational loads of an aircraft are the prerequisite for assessing its safety or fatigue life. Traditionally, numerous strain gauge sensors are installed to monitor the operational loads, which inevitably increase the weight and system complexity of the aircraft. Therefore, in order to decrease the maintenance costs and data redundancy, the number and location of strain sensors should be optimized for accurate and reliable operational load monitoring. In this paper, a novel two-stage strain gauge location optimization method is proposed to reduce the number of strain gauges while maintaining the operational load monitoring accuracy, which is validated by a numerical case study of an aircraft wing. In the first stage, the traditional Pearson correlation measure is harnessed to initially eliminate numerous correlated strain gauge monitoring points, reducing 996 original strain gauge measurement points to 13 for the aircraft wing box. In the second stage, an improved correlation measure method is proposed to further reduce the 13 strain gauge points to 2, which can evaluate the correlation degree of several variables and simultaneously determine the optimal strain monitoring locations for the two load actuators in this study. The relative errors between the predicted loads and the actual loads for both load actuators are less than 4% when only two optimized monitoring points are adopted. In addition, a comparison study with LASSO regression and principal component regression methods is conducted. The results demonstrate that the proposed method has the characteristics of less monitoring points and higher load prediction precision.
A Diffusion Modeling-Based System for Teaching Dance to Digital Human
Authors: Zhou Linyan , Zhao Jingyuan , He Jialiang
Published: October 2024

The introduction of artificial intelligence (AI) has triggered changes in modern dance education. This study investigates the application of diffusion-based modeling and virtual digital humans in dance instruction. Utilizing AI and digital technologies, the proposed system innovatively merges music-driven dance generation with virtual human-based teaching. It achieves this by extracting rhythmic and emotional information from music through audio analysis to generate corresponding dance sequences. The virtual human, functioning as a digital tutor, demonstrates dance movements in real time, enabling students to accurately learn and execute dance postures and rhythms. Analysis of the teaching outcomes, including effectiveness, naturalness, and fluidity, indicates that learning through the digital human results in enhanced user engagement and improved learning outcomes. Additionally, the diversity of dance movements is increased. This system enhances students’ motivation and learning efficacy, offering a novel approach to innovating dance education.
The Role of Ultrasound-Based Monitoring of Bladder Volume in Patients with Prostate Cancer during CyberKnife Stereotactic Radiosurgery
Authors: Bodusz Dawid , Brajczewska-Bello Joanna , Rutkowski Tomasz , Kołosza Zofia , Cortez Alexander Jorge , Szymala-Cortez Magdalena , Leszczyński Wojciech , Wydmański Jerzy
Published: October 2024

(1) Background: For patients irradiated due to prostate cancer, monitoring of bladder volume (BV) is crucial for accuracy of radiation delivery and minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues. Due to the limited imaging capabilities of the CyberKnife system, ultrasound imaging plays a vital role in the monitoring of bladder filling. (2) Methods: A study was carried out in 142 prostate cancer patients treated with the CyberKnife system. Bladder ultrasound (US) was performed before each RTH session to assess real BV (rBV). The double US assessment of rBV was performed by two independent operators or a single operator during 177 and 495 RTH sessions, respectively, giving, in total, 1344 BV assessments. (3) Results: The mean BV in the first and second US assessment was 214.7 mL and 218.1 mL, respectively, while the mean planning bladder volume (pBV) was 340.8 mL. A pBV was significantly higher than an rBV. The mean difference between the US and CT assessment of BV was the smallest in the 100–349 mL group and the largest in the group above 349 mL. The Passing–Bablok regression results confirmed the reliability of the ultrasound (US) measurements. (4) Conclusions: The introduction of US-based BV assessment in patients irradiated due to prostate cancer using CyberKnife seems to be a crucial element in controlling the reproducibility of the treatment plan and should be a standard procedure. The pBV should be within the range of 200–300 mL. The US examination prior to CT scanning for planning is recommended to ensure the optimal range of BV for CT.
Grading of Traffic Interruptions in Highways to Tibet Based on the Entropy Weight-TOPSIS Method and Fuzzy C-Means Clustering Algorithm
Authors: Tian Jian , Li Zhiqiang , Zhuang Suyan , Xi Jianfeng , Li Min
Published: October 2024

The interruption of transportation on the way to Tibet has brought great losses to the Tibetan region. The work proposed a model that integrated the entropy weight-TOPSIS method with the fuzzy C-means clustering algorithm to discuss the causes and characteristics of traffic interruptions on the four main highways to Tibet. This approach aimed to quantify and grade traffic interruption states. First, the entropy weight-TOPSIS method was used to mitigate dimensions among various indices and quantitatively evaluate the status values of traffic interruptions. Then, the fuzzy C-means clustering algorithm was employed to grade these values. The proposed model graded traffic interruption states into four levels by evaluating the duration, mileage, and severity of traffic interruptions. Moreover, the four-level classification scheme can reflect the severity of traffic blocking events more precisely while maintaining a lower PE (Partition Entropy) value. In the four-level classification, the Sichuan–Tibet Highway and Xinjiang–Tibet Highway experienced more level-3 and level-4 serious interruptions, while most high-level interruptions on the Qinghai–Tibet Highway were classified as level-2 ordinary interruptions. The Yunnan–Tibet Highway, with limited data and primarily level-1 classification, was not analyzed in detail. These findings provide a reference for highway management departments to formulate targeted maintenance and emergency measures, especially the Sichuan–Tibet highway, which needs more attention and resource investment to improve its disaster resistance and reduce the impact of traffic interruptions.
Quantum Codes as an Application of Constacyclic Codes
Authors: Raza Mohd Arif , Ahmad Mohammad Fareed , Alahmadi Adel , Basaffar Widyan , Gupta Manish K. , Rehman Nadeem ur , Khan Abdul Nadim , Shoaib Hatoon , Sole Patrick
Published: October 2024

The main focus of this paper is to analyze the algebraic structure of constacyclic codes over the ring R=Fp+w1Fp+w2Fp+w22Fp+w1w2Fp+w1w22Fp, where w12−α2=0, w1w2=w2w1, w23−β2w2=0, and α,β∈Fp∖{0}, for a prime p. We begin by introducing a Gray map defined over R, which is associated with an invertible matrix. We demonstrate its advantages over the canonical Gray map through some examples. Finally, we create new and improved quantum codes from constacyclic codes over R using Calderbank–Shore–Steane (CSS) construction.
On Topologies Induced by Ideals, Primals, Filters and Grills
Authors: Matejdes Milan
Published: October 2024

In this paper, one-to-one correspondences and equivalences between ideals, primals, filters and grills are introduced. It is shown that the local functions and the topological spaces induced by them are the same. From this point of view, the topological properties of one topology can be derived from the topological properties that are valid in the corresponding topology.
Reformulation and Enhancement of Distributed Robust Optimization Framework Incorporating Decision-Adaptive Uncertainty Sets
Authors: Zhang Jie , Lin Shuang , Wang Yifei
Published: October 2024

Distributionally robust optimization (DRO) is an advanced framework within the realm of optimization theory that addresses scenarios where the underlying probability distribution governing the data is uncertain or ambiguous. In this paper, we introduce a novel class of DRO challenges where the probability distribution of random variables is contingent upon the decision variables, and the ambiguity set is defined through parameterization involving the mean and a covariance matrix, which also depend on the decision variables. This dependency makes DRO difficult to solve directly; therefore, first, we demonstrate that under the condition of a full-space support set, the original problem can be reduced to a second-order cone programming (SOCP) problem. Subsequently, we solve this second-order cone programming problem using a projection differential equation approach. Compared with the traditional methods, the differential equation method offers advantages in providing continuous and smooth solutions, offering inherent stability analysis, and possessing a rich mathematical toolbox, which make the differential equation a powerful and versatile tool for addressing complex optimization challenges.
On the Stability of the Interface between Li2TiS3 Cathode and Li6PS5Cl Solid State Electrolytes for Battery Applications: A DFT Study
Authors: Rocca Riccardo , Marana Naiara Leticia , Silveri Fabrizio , D’Amore Maddalena , Ascrizzi Eleonora , Sgroi Mauro Francesco , Li Pira Nello , Ferrari Anna Maria
Published: October 2024

Lithium-titanium-sulfur cathodes have garnered interest due to their distinctive properties and potential applications in lithium-ion batteries. They present various benefits, including lower cost, enhanced safety, and greater energy density compared to the commonly used transition metal oxides. The current trend in lithium-ion batteries is to move to all-solid-state chemistries in order to improve safety and energy density. Several chemistries for solid electrolytes have been studied, tested, and characterized to evaluate the applicability in energy storage system. Among those, sulfur-based Argyrodites have been coupled with cubic rock-salt type Li2TiS3 electrodes. In this work, Li2TiS3 surfaces were investigated with DFT methods in different conditions, covering the possible configurations that can occur during the cathode usage: pristine, delithiated, and overlithiated. Interfaces were built by coupling selected Li2TiS3 surfaces with the most stable Argyrodite surface, as derived from a previous study, allowing us to understand the (electro)chemical compatibility between these two sulfur-based materials.
The Many Faces of Autophagy: Balancing Survival and Cell Death
Authors: Canonico Barbara
Published: October 2024

Autophagy and apoptosis are two fundamental biological mechanisms that may cooperate or be antagonistic, and both are involved in deciding the fate of cells in physiological or pathological conditions [...]
Sonication-Assisted Decellularization of Waste Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) Heads for Extracellular Matrix Extraction
Authors: Baclayon Lean , Bual Ronald , Labares Marionilo , Valle Kit Dominick Don , Pague Job , Alimasag Johnel , Lumancas Gladine , Arellano Fernan , Nisperos Michael John , Aron Jemwel , Bacosa Hernando
Published: October 2024

Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus), which is extensively farmed globally and ranks as the second most cultivated fish in the Philippines, generates significant amounts of waste that are often underutilized. One specific type of waste material consists of fish heads, which contain a valuable source of extracellular matrix (ECM). This study aims to evaluate the effects of sonication as a viable decellularization method for the extraction of ECM from tilapia fish heads. Particularly, two treatments were tested on the head samples: sonication-assisted decellularization (dWS) using a water bath sonicator, and decellularization without sonication (dNS), each with different contact times (5 min and 10 min). Histological analysis with H and E staining and DNA quantification revealed that sonication-assisted samples (dWS) showed a greater reduction in basophilic components and DNA content, achieving a 93.7% removal rate. These dWS samples also had the highest protein loss, retaining only 33.86% of the original protein. SDS–PAGE analysis indicated that both dWS and dNS samples maintained similar collagen structures, as evidenced by identical subunit bands. ATR–FTIR spectra confirmed the presence of collagen type I in all samples, detecting characteristic amides A, B, I, II, and III. The results revealed that varying treatments and contact times had significant effects on the physical and mechanical properties of the decellularized extracellular matrix (ECM). These findings highlight the effectiveness of sonication in the decellularization process, particularly for utilizing waste tilapia heads.
Exploring Job-Related Factors and Exercise Intentions in Relation to Overall Physical Activity and Its Subdivisions
Authors: Wang Wei-Hsun , Hsu Wei-Ting , Cheng Hsin-I , Li Ren-Hau , Huang Shu-Ling , Tang Feng-Cheng
Published: October 2024

This study examined the relationships between job-related factors and overall physical activity (PA), including its subdivisions: leisure-time PA, transportation PA, and work-related PA. Additionally, this study investigated the associations between exercise intentions and different types of PA. A cross-sectional design was employed, utilizing a questionnaire to collect data on participants’ demographics, job-related characteristics, exercise intentions, and levels of PA. A total of 400 full-time workers voluntarily participated in this study. The findings identified women, white-collar workers, those with longer working hours, and individuals with low exercise intentions as high-risk groups for insufficient overall PA in multiple linear regression analysis. After controlling for covariates, occupation was found to be associated with both overall PA (β = 0.146) and work-related PA (β = 0.236). Shift workers exhibited higher levels of work-related PA (β = 0.234). Furthermore, exercise intentions showed associations with overall PA (β = 0.243), leisure-time PA (β = 0.523), and transportation PA (β = 0.176) but did not demonstrate a significant relationship with work-related PA. This study highlights the importance of implementing comprehensive approaches in workplace health promotion programs aimed at enhancing various types of PA. Strategies should focus on improving exercise intentions to boost leisure-time and transportation PA, while work-related PA requires tailored interventions based on job-specific factors.
Advanced Oxidation Catalysts—Innovative Approaches and Emerging Trends
Authors: Li Meng , Li Chenxi
Published: October 2024

Novel oxidation catalysts in water treatment and purification have garnered major attention due to the growing demand for clean water resources [...]
The Impact of Social Media on Public Perception and Litigation in Hernia Surgery Complications: A Narrative Review
Authors: Holzheimer René Gordon , Hakim Nadey
Published: October 2024

Title: The Impact of Social Media on Public Perception and Litigation in Hernia Surgery Complications. Introduction: Social media significantly impacts public perception of healthcare, leading to increased litigation for complications after hernia surgery. Our research focused on terms like ‘inguinal hernia repair,’ ‘medico-legal,’ ‘informed consent,’ ‘litigation,’ ‘malpractice,’ ‘social media’, ‘mesh’, ‘Leistenbruch’, and OLG in Pubmed, Google Scholar, and Google. Results showed chronic postoperative pain as a common cause of malpractice claims, with ultrasound being a valuable diagnostic tool. Urological injuries account for a significant portion of complications after surgery. Mesh infection leads to hospital readmission, increased healthcare costs, and lawsuits. The quality of the consent process is crucial, and patient perceptions of mesh use influence their decision-making. Healthcare professionals must understand the impact of social media on public perception and provide comprehensive patient information for informed consent and satisfaction.
A Comparative Study of Metaheuristic Feature Selection Algorithms for Respiratory Disease Classification
Authors: Gürkan Kuntalp Damla , Özcan Nermin , Düzyel Okan , Kababulut Fevzi Yasin , Kuntalp Mehmet
Published: October 2024

The correct diagnosis and early treatment of respiratory diseases can significantly improve the health status of patients, reduce healthcare expenses, and enhance quality of life. Therefore, there has been extensive interest in developing automatic respiratory disease detection systems. Most recent methods for detecting respiratory disease use machine and deep learning algorithms. The success of these machine learning methods depends heavily on the selection of proper features to be used in the classifier. Although metaheuristic-based feature selection methods have been successful in addressing difficulties presented by high-dimensional medical data in various biomedical classification tasks, there is not much research on the utilization of metaheuristic methods in respiratory disease classification. This paper aims to conduct a detailed and comparative analysis of six widely used metaheuristic optimization methods using eight different transfer functions in respiratory disease classification. For this purpose, two different classification cases were examined: binary and multi-class. The findings demonstrate that metaheuristic algorithms using correct transfer functions could effectively reduce data dimensionality while enhancing classification accuracy.
Examining TPACK Enactment in Elementary Mathematics with Various Learning Technologies
Authors: Polly Drew
Published: October 2024

As schools continue to invest more resources into learning technologies and their infrastructure, there is a need to consider ways to support teachers’ professional learning related to the appropriate uses of learning technologies. The construct of TPACK continues to provide a framework for the field to help make sense of the knowledge and skills related to effectively integrating learning technologies into teaching. The article includes three vignettes that describe research-aligned enactments of TPACK using three different learning technologies: an internet-based activity focused on lower-level fluency, an internet-based simulation/game on budgeting, and an internet-based open-ended tool. The three vignettes suggest that TPACK can be enacted regardless of the learning technologies and that the culture and context of schools greatly influences whether and how teachers integrate technology into their mathematics teaching.
Influence and Relationship of Physical Activity before, during and after the School Day on Bullying and Cyberbullying in Young People: A Systematic Review
Authors: Rusillo-Magdaleno Alba , Moral-García José E. , Brandão-Loureiro Vânia , Martínez-López Emilio J.
Published: October 2024

The aim of this systematic review was to analyze the influence of the practice of Physical Activity (PA) before, during and after school hours on bullying and cyberbullying in children and adolescents. Studies were identified in four databases (PubMed, SCOPUS, Web of Science, ERIC) from January 2013 to March 2024. A total of 29 studies met the inclusion criteria. Seventeen studies used a cross-sectional design to explore the association between these variables, and 12 articles had a longitudinal design with PA interventions. The review found that PA is associated with significant improvements in bullying and cyberbullying, reduced depressive symptoms, and strengthened social relationships, responsibility, and self-esteem. PA before the school day may be effective in reducing bullying victimization. During the school day, it promotes affective behaviors related to bullying, such as empathy and respect for others, and optimizes psychological factors such as self-concept and self-esteem. After-school PA reduces bullying and disruptive behaviors in non-educational contexts. It is recommended to implement PA programs that address social, emotional and behavioral aspects throughout the day, with Educational Centers and Physical Education as the central axis. Didactic recommendations for implementing PA programs against bullying/cyberbullying in school and extracurricular contexts are included.
Using Social Robotics to Identify Educational Behavior: A Survey
Authors: Romero-C. de Vaca Antonio J. , Melendez-Armenta Roberto Angel , Ponce Hiram
Published: October 2024

The advancement of social robots in recent years has opened a promising avenue for providing users with more accessible and personalized attention. These robots have been integrated into various aspects of human life, particularly in activities geared toward students, such as entertainment, education, and companionship, with the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI). AI plays a crucial role in enhancing these experiences by enabling social and educational robots to interact and adapt intelligently to their environment. In social robotics, AI is used to develop systems capable of understanding human emotions and responding to them, thereby facilitating interaction and collaboration between humans and robots in social settings. This article aims to present a survey of the use of robots in education, highlighting the degree of integration of social robots in this field worldwide. It also explores the robotic technologies applied according to the students’ educational level. This study provides an overview of the technical literature in social robotics and behavior recognition systems applied to education at various educational levels, especially in recent years. Additionally, it reviews the range of social robots in the market involved in these activities. The objects of study, techniques, and tools used, as well as the resources and results, are described to offer a view of the current state of the reviewed areas and to contribute to future research.
Photovoltaic Maximum Power Point Tracking Technology Based on Improved Perturbation Observation Method and Backstepping Algorithm
Authors: Wang Yulin , Sun Liying
Published: October 2024

Photovoltaic power generation systems mainly use the maximum power tracking (MPPT) controller to adjust the voltage and current of the solar cells in the photovoltaic array, so that the photovoltaic array runs at the maximum power point (MPP) to achieve the purpose of maximum power output. At present, photovoltaic power stations mainly adopt the traditional method to track the maximum power point, but this fixed step method easily causes output power oscillation of the photovoltaic array when tracking the maximum power point, and it easily falls into the local extreme point under partial shadow conditions. In order to solve these problems, this paper proposes an improved perturbation observation method and backstepping method (IP&O-backstepping) to replace the traditional method applied to the MPPT controller to optimize the operating state of the solar cell, thereby improving the output power point of the photovoltaic array and increasing the output power of the photovoltaic array. The algorithm first uses the improved perturbation and observation (IP&O) method to search the maximum power point of the photovoltaic array and output the reference voltage. Secondly, the reference voltage is input into the backstepping algorithm for voltage tracking. Finally, the algorithm tracks the reference voltage and makes the photovoltaic array operate at the maximum power point. The simulation is carried out by using MATLAB/Simulink. The IP&O-backstepping algorithm is compared with the intelligent algorithm and the traditional method, and the results show that compared to the above algorithm, the IP&O-backstepping algorithm can not only track the maximum power point of the photovoltaic array, but also has a faster tracking speed, and the output power has almost no oscillation when the photovoltaic array runs at the maximum power point.
An IoT-Enabled Real-Time Crop Prediction System Using Soil Fertility Analysis
Authors: G Manju , K S Syam Kishor , V A Binson
Published: October 2024

Changes in soil fertility have led to a decline in crop production, making it challenging for farmers to select the best crops based on soil conditions. Accurate crop prediction can significantly enhance crop productivity, and machine learning plays a crucial role in this process. Crop forecasting is influenced by soil, geographic, and environmental characteristics, with feature selection being essential for identifying suitable crops. In this study, we developed a real-time soil fertility analyzer to obtain the real-time values of soil parameters such as potassium, phosphorus, nitrogen content, temperature, pH, moisture content, and electrical conductivity. The crops examined were coconut, ginger, plantain, and tapioca. The data collected from this analysis served as the dataset for different training and testing classification algorithms for crop prediction using 100 soil samples. Among the algorithms tested, the k-nearest neighbors (KNN) algorithm demonstrated the highest performance, with an accuracy of 84%, precision of 85%, recall of 88.8%, and specificity of 92.4%. These results indicate that machine learning, combined with real-time soil analysis, can effectively predict suitable crops, enhancing crop productivity and aiding farmers in making informed decisions. This approach can revolutionize traditional farming practices by providing precise, data-driven insights into crop selection, ultimately improving agricultural efficiency and sustainability.
Dietary Habits and Nutritional Knowledge of Pregnant Women: The Importance of Nutrition Education
Authors: Olloqui-Mundet María Josefa , Cavia María del Mar , Alonso-Torre Sara R. , Carrillo Celia
Published: October 2024

A good diet during pregnancy is associated with improvements to maternal and fetal health. Nevertheless, excessive weight gain during pregnancy has been reported in several studies. The aim of this review is to determine the dietary habits of pregnant women (measured according to their degree of adherence to the Mediterranean diet, a reference in dietary quality), their knowledge of food and nutrition, and their perceptions of the nutritional education received during their pregnancy, in order to detect intervention needs within that group. The bibliographic search was conducted on three databases (Medline, PubMed central, and Web of Science), using the keywords “pregnancy”, “Mediterranean diet”, “nutrition knowledge”, “nutritional education”, and some synonyms. The final selection included 68 original articles. The available evidence indicated that, although pregnant women were aware of the importance of nutrition during pregnancy, their habits showed some room for improvement in terms of diet and physical exercise. Lack of adequate advice was the main barrier to the practice of healthy habits that pregnant women encountered; they considered that the information they received during pregnancy follow-up visits was inadequate. However, the success of interventions within different countries is a source of hope for well-structured nutrition education throughout pregnancy. The lack of nutrition-related knowledge among pregnant women could be originally related to poorly planned nutrition education from healthcare providers. Research focused on the consultations with these healthcare providers could be of help when proposing strategies to improve the content, the depth, and the duration of nutrition education sessions. It should, in any case, be noted that the available evidence in this field is limited to certain geographical origins. Therefore, research that uncovers evidence in different countries will be useful for learning about the factors that condition the habits of pregnant women and, in that way, guide strategies for the improvement of the health of expectant mothers during that stage in their lives.
Comprehensive Overview and New Research on Carbonate Rocks of the Sé Velha Cathedral in Coimbra, Portugal
Authors: Tavares Alice , Rocha Fernando , Fragata Ana , Costa Aníbal , Oliveira Matilde
Published: October 2024

In addition to the surrounding climatic environment, the intrinsic characteristics of the stones used in construction are a critical factor to understand a building’s conservation state and define the necessary planning and conservation management activities. The use of environmentally susceptible stones, such as carbonate stones, in heritage buildings can be especially problematic. The present investigation presents an overview of past research and contributes to identifying the types of carbonate stones used over time in Coimbra’s Old Cathedral in Portugal, which was classified as a National Monument and integrated into the Coimbra World Heritage site by UNESCO. Our mineralogical and chemical analyses revealed the use of carbonate stones from different quarries (Coimbra region), including Ançã limestone and dolostone (Porta Especiosa portal), Portunhos limestone and Outil limestone (in the perimeter of windows), and marlstones and Outil limestone (side facades). These stones, which were installed at various times during the construction and alteration of the monument, represent a great challenge for conservation planning due to their intrinsic vulnerability to adverse environmental conditions and pollution.
A Mixed Methods Analysis of General Education Candidates’ Knowledge, Perceptions, and Application of Universal Design for Learning
Authors: Johnson Holly N. , Wakeman Shawnee Younker , Gilson Cindy
Published: October 2024

Thirty general education candidates from elementary education, middle/secondary education, and arts education in multiple sections of one course engaged in a series of discussion posts and lesson plans related to creating inclusive general education lessons. Using candidate posts, rubric scores, feedback on lesson plans, and course evaluation ratings, a mixed methods approach was used to understand candidate knowledge, perceptions, and applications of Universal Design for Learning. The results from our research have important implications for policy, practice, and research. Policy makers must be aware of the lack of UDL in general education programs and IHEs need to do more than the cursory coverage of these principles. Additional research is needed for the implementation of lessons designed using UDL by general education candidates.
Histone Tail Cleavage as a Mechanism for Epigenetic Regulation
Authors: Shin Yonghwan
Published: October 2024

Histones are essential for DNA packaging and undergo post-translational modifications that significantly influence gene regulation. Among these modifications, histone tail cleavage has recently garnered attention despite being less explored. Cleavage by various proteases impacts processes such as stem cell differentiation, aging, infection, and inflammation, though the mechanisms remain unclear. This review delves into recent insights on histone proteolytic cleavage and its epigenetic significance, highlighting how chromatin, which serves as a dynamic scaffold, responds to signals through histone modification, replacement, and ATP-dependent remodeling. Specifically, histone tail cleavage is linked to critical cellular processes such as granulocyte differentiation, viral infection, aging, yeast sporulation, and cancer development. Although the exact mechanisms connecting histone cleavage to gene expression are still emerging, it is clear that this process represents a novel epigenetic transcriptional mechanism intertwined with chromatin dynamics. This review explores known histone tail cleavage events, the proteolytic enzymes involved, their impact on gene expression, and future research directions in this evolving field.
Group VA Aromatic Thiosemicarbazone Complexes: Synthesis, Characterization, Biological Activity, and Topological Studies
Authors: Ozturk Ibrahim I. , Sumer Emine I. , Dutkiewicz Grzegorz , Banti Christina N. , Hadjikakou Sotiris K. , Grześkiewicz Anita M. , Kubicki Maciej
Published: October 2024

The antiproliferative and antibacterial activities of thiosemicarbazones increase markedly with the presence of metal ions. One of the factors determining the activity of metal thiosemicarbazone complexes is the coordination structure. In this study, the biological effects of new antimony (III) and bismuth (III) thiosemicarbazone complexes with different binding modes and geometrical structures were demonstrated. Three new complexes, with the formulae {[SbCl3(µ2-S-Hacptsc)(η1-S-Hacptsc)], 2/3H2O,1/3CH2Cl2}, {[SbCl3(κ2-S,N-Hacpmtsc)(η1-S-Hacpmtsc)2CH2Cl2]}, and{[BiCl3(η1-S-Hbzmtsc)3]·C2H5OH}, where Hacptsc: acetophenone thiosemicarbazone, Hacpmtsc: acetophenone-N-methyl thiosemicarbazone, Hbzmtsc: benzaldehyde-N-methyl thiosemicarbazone) were elucidated by different methods and deeply analyzed in accordance with their structure by X-ray structure analysis and Atoms-In-Molecules topological analysis. This analysis provided a deeper understanding of the coordination spheres of the Sb/Bi complexes. For instance, the first reported two binding modes of the same ligand are observed in a single crystal structure of antimony (III) halide complexes. Additionally, in one of the complexes, a solid-to-solid phase transition was detected and analyzed in detail. Those complexes, very unique in terms of their geometry, have also been tested for their in vitro cytotoxic activity against human adenocarcinoma cervical cancer (HeLa) cells, whereas antimony (III) complex 1is the most active complex of this study. Further, the antibacterial activity of the complexes has been screened against two Gram-negative (Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli) and two Gram-positive (Staphylococcus epidermidis and Staphylococcus aureus) pathogenic bacteria. From the results, it is found that all the complexes exhibited significant activity against the Gram-negative pathogenic bacteria.
Sociology in Medical Undergraduate Education: A Survey in Greece
Authors: Soultatou Pelagia , Trantali Trisevgeni , Patithras Constantinos-Chrysovalantis , Economou Charalampos
Published: October 2024

The integration of sociology into medical education is essential for cultivating a nuanced understanding of the complex interplay between social determinants and health outcomes. This national cross-sectional survey utilized a qualitative, descriptive research approach to examine the inclusion of sociology as a course in the undergraduate curricula of medical schools in Greek higher education. Data collection and analysis were conducted through a comprehensive review of the syllabi from all seven medical schools in Greece. The analysis revealed that none of the seven undergraduate medical curricula include sociology as a discrete course. Social medicine is offered as a discrete course in three out of the seven programs, whereas sociological concepts are present in the majority of the medical curricula (six out of seven). A significant gap in the integration of sociology as a discrete course within Greek medical graduate education is revealed. To better equip future medical doctors with sociological lenses towards medical practice, a more comprehensive integration of sociology into medical training is recommended.
Impact of SGLT2-Inhibitor Therapy on Survival in Patients with Transthyretin Amyloid Cardiomyopathy: Analysis of a Prospective Registry Study
Authors: Schwegel Nora , Toferer Christina , Zach David K. , Santner Viktoria , Höller Viktoria , Lugitsch Jakob , Wallner Markus , Gollmer Johannes , Aziz Faisal , von Lewinski Dirk , Kolesnik Ewald , Ablasser Klemens , Zirlik Andreas , Sourij Harald , Verheyen Nicolas
Published: October 2024

Background: Patients with transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy (ATTR-CM) represent a high-risk heart failure population with continued unmet therapeutic needs. Sodium–glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) improve cardiovascular outcomes in patients with heart failure across the whole spectrum of ejection fraction, and first evidence regarding their safety and effectiveness in patients with ATTR-CM is arising. This study investigates the association between SGLT2i therapy and clinical outcomes in these patients. Methods: This is an analysis of a prospective registry conducted at a referral centre for hypertrophic cardiomyopathies including 116 patients with confirmed ATTR-CM. Fifty-one patients (44%) were treated with SGLT2i while 65 patients (56%) remained SGLT2i-naïve. Results: During a median follow-up of 2.6 (1.7–3.7) years, 38 patients (33%) died, of whom 11 patients (9%) received SGLT2i treatment and 27 patients (23%) were treatment-naïve. SGLT2i therapy was significantly associated with lower mortality (HR 0.457, 95%CI 0.227–0.922, p = 0.029). This association persisted after adjusting for age and sex (HR 0.479, 95%CI 0.235–0.977, p = 0.043) and after additional adjustment for eGFR, NT-proBNP, LVEF, and concomitant therapy with tafamidis (HR 0.328, 95%CI 0.141–0.760, p = 0.009). However, when potential immortal time bias was considered, this association lost statistical significance (HR 1.075, 95%CI 0.524–2.206, p = 0.843). No significant associations between SGLT2i therapy and worsening heart-failure hospitalization or cardiovascular mortality were observed. Conclusions: In crude analysis, SGLT2i therapy associates with better survival in patients with ATTR-CM. However, after adjustment for immortal time, this association becomes statistically insignificant. Hence, to draw final conclusions on the effectiveness of SGLT2i therapy in these patients, a randomized controlled trial is warranted.
Under-Prescription of Drugs in the Elderly Population of Western Romania: An Analysis Based on STOPP/START Version 2 Criteria
Authors: Baneu Petru , Prelipcean Andreea , Buda Valentina Oana , Jianu Narcisa , Tudor Anca , Andor Minodora , Merlan Cristina , Romanescu Mirabela , Suciu Maria , Buda Simona , Mateoc Teodora , Gurgus Daniela , Dehelean Liana
Published: October 2024

Background/Objectives: Numerous European countries, including Romania, are facing the concern of rapid ageing of their populations. Moreover, Romania’s life expectancy ranks among the lowest in the European Union. In light of this, it is imperative that the assessment of medication-related harm be given national priority in order to secure and enhance pharmacotherapy and the medical act. In this study, we sought to describe and evaluate the under-prescribing practices among the Romanian elderly population. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study in urban areas of two counties in Western Romania (Timis and Arad) from November 2017 to February 2019. We collected chronic electronic prescriptions issued for elderly patients (>65 years old) with chronic conditions. The medication was prescribed by generalist or specialist physicians for periods ranging between 30 and 90 days. To assess inappropriate prescribing behaviours, a multidisciplinary team of specialists applied the Screening Tool of Older Persons’ Prescriptions/Screening Tool to Alert to Right Treatment (STOPP/START) v.2 criteria to the collected prescriptions. Results: Within the 1498 prescriptions included in the study, 57% were issued to females, the mean age was 74.1 ± 6.95, and the average number of medicines per prescription was 4.7 ± 1.51. The STOPP criteria most commonly identified were the (1) long treatment duration (23.6%) and (2) prescription of neuroleptics (14.6%) or zopiclone (14.0%) as medications that increase the risk of falls. According to START criteria, the following medicines were under-prescribed: (1) statins (47.4%), (2) beta-blockers (24.5%), (3) antiresorptive therapy (10.0%), and (4) β2-agonists and muscarinic antagonists for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (4.5%). Within our study group, the prevalence of potentially inappropriate medications was 18.58%, whereas the prevalence of potential prescribing omissions was 49.2%. Conclusions: To decrease medication-related harm and morbid-mortality, and to increase the quality of life for elderly people in Romania, immediate actions are needed from national authorities. These actions include reinforcing primary care services, providing periodic training for physicians, implementing medication review services by pharmacists, and utilising electronic health records at their full capacity.
Gender-Affirming Phalloplasty: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Alba Brandon , Nolan Ian T. , Weinstein Brielle , O’Neill Elizabeth , Fritsch Annie , Jacobs Kristin M. , Schechter Loren
Published: October 2024

The goals of gender-affirming phalloplasty typically include an aesthetic phallus and scrotum, standing micturition, and/or penetrative intercourse. Phalloplasty can be performed using both free and pedicled flaps. Complications include flap-related healing compromise and urethral issues, including stricture and fistula. Phalloplasty has high patient satisfaction and has demonstrated improvement in quality of life.
Reliability and Validity of the Rate of Force Development for Quadriceps in Older Patients with Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Adachi Takuji , Morishima Chubu , Nojiri Yuta , Tsunekawa Yuki , Tanimura Daisuke , Sano Taisei , Shibata Kenichi , Kitamura Hideki
Published: October 2024

Background/Objectives: The rate of force development (RFD), which is the change in force over a period of time during muscle contraction, quantifies rapid muscle contractions. RFD may serve as a measure of physical rehabilitation in patients with cardiovascular disease (CVD); however, its reliability and validity in older patients remain unclear. This study examined the reliability and validity of quadricep RFD in older patients with CVD. Methods: This prospective study enrolled 30 outpatients undergoing cardiac rehabilitation (median age, 77 years) and 30 inpatients hospitalized for CVD (median age, 76 years). The quadricep RFD values at three time points (RFD50, 0–50 ms; RFD100, 0–100 ms; and RFD200, 0–200 ms) were calculated from the slope of the force–time curve. Physical performance was assessed using the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB). Intra- and inter-rater correlation coefficients were assessed for outpatients. The correlation coefficients between RFD values and physical performance indicators were assessed separately for outpatients and inpatients. Results: The intraclass correlation coefficients (1,1) and (2,1) for RFD50, RFD100, and RFD200 were 0.742, 0.893, and 0.873 and 0.810, 0.918, and 0.930, respectively. The correlation coefficients for SPPB with RFD50, RFD100, and RFD200 were 0.553, 0.547, and 0.597 (all p < 0.05), respectively, for inpatients; similar moderate correlations were observed for gait speed and the chair stand test. Conclusions: The test–retest reliability of the RFD was excellent in older patients with CVD. The RFD was positively correlated with physical function indicators, suggesting its validity as a measure of physical rehabilitation.