bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inferiority feelings mediate the impact of subjective social support on anxiety/depression symptoms in individuals with physical disabilities
Authors: Liu Yiyang , Xu Wenjing , Liu Shanshan , Song Yuqing , Li Lin , Li Shunfei , Chen Hongguang
Published: November 2024

Background

Persons with physical disabilities are more likely to suffer from psychological symptoms and inferiority feelings, and social support plays an important role in improving those symptoms. However, the interaction between psychological symptoms, inferiority feelings and social support is yet to be understood.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted to investigate anxiety, depression, and inferiority feelings among individuals with physical disabilities in a Chinese sample. The questionnaire included the Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7, Patient Health Questionnaire 9, Self-designed Disability Questionnaire, and Social Support Rating Scale including three dimensions: subjective social support, objective social support and utilization of social support.

Results

Out of the 1,453 respondents with physical disabilities, 49.7, 60.4, and 62.5% reported experiencing anxiety, depression, and inferiority feelings, respectively. Factors such as time since identification of physical disabilities, comorbidities, daily travel, social interaction, internet use, subjective social support, and inferiority feelings were found to be associated with anxiety or depression symptoms among physically disabled individuals. Subjective social support was found to be associated with inferiority feelings, which partly mediated the effect of subjective social support on anxiety symptoms by 37.4% and depression symptoms by 28.7%.

Conclusion

This study highlights the importance of addressing the psychological well-being of physically disabled individuals in addition to their physical rehabilitation. Psychological intervention strategies should focus on improving subjective social support and reducing inferiority feelings, particularly among vulnerable groups.
Stress in novice nurses in new work environments: a systematic review
Authors: Narbona-Gálvez Ángela , García-Iglesias Juan Jesús , Ayuso-Murillo Diego , Fontán-Vinagre Guadalupe , Gómez-Salgado Juan , Allande-Cussó Regina , Fagundo-Rivera Javier , Macías-Toronjo Israel , Ruiz-Frutos Carlos
Published: November 2024

Background

Inexperienced nursing care can compromise the quality of care and the well-being of patients. The aim of this study was to assess the main sources of stress encountered by nurses and novice nurses in a setting not previously experienced.

Methods

A systematic review was conducted following the PRISMA format in Pubmed, Scopus, Web of Science, and CINAHL electronic databases in March 2024. A total of 395 studies were identified, of which 16 met the inclusion criteria. Selection was made on the basis of topic relevance and methodological quality, assessed using the critical tools of the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI).

Results

A total of 16 studies were included in this review. Of the 16 selected, 10 were cross-sectional studies, 3 were cohort studies, 2 were qualitative, and 1 was a systematic review. The studies revealed that the main stressors for novice nurses included time management, workload, and interpersonal relationships. The results underline that organizational factors, such as lack of support and high work demands, play a key role in generating stress.

Conclusion

Identifying and addressing the key challenges faced by novice nurses, such as workload, adjustment to the environment, professional expectations, and interpersonal relationships, is crucial to sustain their professional engagement and ensure the quality of health care. This understanding is essential for creating efficient policies and practices that enhance the occupational well-being and stability of nurses in the workforce.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42024520651, CRD42024520651.
Understanding childhood obesity in Pakistan: exploring the knowledge, attitudes, practices of mothers, and influential factors. A cross-sectional study
Authors: Hudaib Muhammad , Hussain Laraib , Nazim Laiba , Mohi Uddin Sumaira , Jamil Muhammad Usama , Bham Shireen Qassim , Malik Hurais , Rehman Abdul , Malik Usaid , Manahil  , Umais Ahad Ahmad , Mughal Sanila , Eljack Mohammed Mahmmoud Fadelallah
Published: November 2024

Background

Childhood obesity is a significant public health issue with far-reaching implications. The World Health Organization reported that in 2020, around 38 million children under five were overweight or obese globally, and in 2016, 340 million children and adolescents aged 5–19 were affected. In Pakistan, the situation is alarming; 66.9% of school-going children in Punjab were overweight, and 5.8% were obese in 2022. This study explores mothers’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding childhood obesity in Pakistan and identifies factors contributing to this epidemic. Maternal perspectives are crucial as they significantly influence children’s dietary habits, physical activity, and attitudes toward food and body image.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2023 to January 2024 at four medical centers: Fazaia Ruth Pfau Medical College Hospitals Karachi, Baqai Medical University Karachi, and Nishtar Medical University Multan. The study included 191 mothers with children aged 5 to 15 years. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire on sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge, attitudes, practices, and perceptions of childhood obesity. IBM-SPSS version 26.0 was used for data analysis, employing statistical tests like Kruskal-Wallis, Mann–Whitney U, Spearman, or Kendall Tau correlation to examine associations.

Results

Among the 191 mothers, 48.7% had education beyond intermediate, and 86.9% were housewives. The children’s BMI distribution showed that 27.7% were obese and 21.5% overweight. Mothers had moderate knowledge (60.5%) about childhood obesity; 75.4% recognized its long-term health risks, and 62.8% associated it with diabetes. Attitudes were generally positive, with a 78.5% average score. Most mothers (73.8%) believed obesity could be controlled and had healthy practices (70.1% average score). However, 96.9% reported witnessing stigmatization of obese children, and 79.6% felt pressured by relatives about their child’s weight.

Conclusion

The findings indicate that while Pakistani mothers have moderate knowledge and positive attitudes toward childhood obesity, their practices are influenced by educational and socioeconomic factors. Addressing these disparities, enhancing public health initiatives, and mitigating stigmatization could improve childhood obesity management in Pakistan.
Public attitudes toward the use of human induced pluripotent stem cells: insights from an Italian adult population
Authors: Elia Noemi , Prinelli Federica , Peli Valeria , Conti Silvia , Barilani Mario , Mei Cecilia , Castaldi Silvana , Lazzari Lorenza
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs), derived from reprogrammed adult somatic cells, hold significant promise for disease modelling, personalized medicine, drug discovery, and regenerative therapies. Public awareness and understanding of hiPSCs are crucial for advancing research in this field. However, limited data exists on the general population’s knowledge and attitudes toward their use.

Methods

This study aimed to assess the awareness and perceptions of hiPSCs among Italian adults through a web-based survey conducted via the EUSurvey platform, using a snowball sampling approach. The survey included demographic information and mandatory questions on knowledge, awareness, and concerns regarding hiPSC technology, with responses collected on a 3-point scale. Statistical analysis was performed using chi-squared tests, with significance set at p ≤ 0.05.

Results

Out of 1874 respondents, the majority were aged 18–35 years (40.5%), female (63.4%), and university-educated (67.2%). Among those familiar with hiPSCs (54.1%, n = 1,201), 95.3% expressed willingness to donate blood samples for hiPSC generation to treat individuals with incurable diseases. Concerns about current research and therapeutic applications were low (less than 20%), but nearly half of the respondents were hesitant or opposed to the use of hiPSCs in animal experiments and their commercialization by pharmaceutical companies. Increased skepticism was observed in older, less educated, religious individuals, and those who were not blood donors. Overall, the Italian public shows strong support for hiPSC-based therapies, though reservations exist around specific ethical and economic issues.

Discussion

These findings underscore the importance of addressing public concerns through targeted educational campaigns, not only in Italy but globally, to foster a more informed and supportive environment for advancing stem cell research and its clinical applications worldwide. Similar studies have been conducted in Japan, the United States, and Sweden, but there remains a need for all countries to engage with their citizens to better understand how stem cell research is perceived locally. Such engagement is crucial for guiding international strategies in personalized medicine and regenerative therapies, ensuring that emerging technologies are met with both ethical integrity and public trust.
Not all Christian nationalists are White (and not all White Christians are Christian nationalists): exploring the predictors of Christian nationalism
Authors: Everton Sean F.
Published: November 2024

Introduction

In recent years, the literature on Christian nationalism has grown exponentially. Studies have found that individuals who score high on a widely used Christian nationalism scale are likelier to advocate for traditional gender roles, endorse anti-immigrant policies, support policies limiting voting rights, oppose gun control and interracial marriage, express anti-vaccine attitudes, hold anti-globalist sentiments, and vote for Donald Trump. The literature on Christian nationalism is not without its critics, however. Some, for example, have questioned whether the scale used by many studies adequately identifies Christian nationalists and suggested alternative methods for doing so. Much of the literature also implicitly or explicitly equates Christian nationalism with white Christian nationalism, ignoring the fact that 25 to 30 percent of respondents who express Christian nationalist sentiments identify as Black, Hispanic, Asian, or another race or ethnicity. Finally, most of it has focused on the consequences of Christian nationalism. Very little has explored the predictors of Christian nationalism. The latter is the focus of this paper.

Methods

Drawing on multivariate logistic regression, it examines potential factors driving Christian nationalist attitudes.

Results

It finds that age, whether someone identifies as a conservative or a Republican, biblical literalism, and frequent worship attendance are positively associated with Christian nationalism, while being affiliated with religious traditions other than evangelicalism (or having no affiliation at all) is negatively associated with it. Notably, race and ethnicity have no effect, suggesting that other factors may be at work.

Discussion

As such, the paper briefly considers four potential factors not readily captured by statistical analyses of cross-sectional data. It concludes by noting that if Christian nationalism is potentially undemocratic and dangerous, then concerned individuals need to focus as much time and energy on its predictors as its consequences.
Paul I. Terasaki, Ph.D: a pioneer in transplant medicine and a dedicated philanthropist
Authors: Kobashigawa Jon
Published: November 2024

In the last five decades, remarkable surgical and medical advances ensued within the field of organ transplantation. These strides were marked by significant breakthroughs in transplant immunology, with Dr. Paul I. Terasaki standing as a true pillar of the field. This article highlights major milestones in Dr. Terasaki's life, his groundbreaking accomplishments in the field of transplant medicine, and his enduring philanthropic contributions to numerous medical and community organizations.
Stereoscopic objects affect reaching performance in virtual reality environments: influence of age on motor control
Authors: Kim Hyeonseok , Kim Yeongdae , Lee Jongho , Kim Jaehyo
Published: November 2024

Although the stereoscopic effect in 3D virtual reality (VR) space has been studied, its influence on motor performance, specifically how stereoscopic objects affect behavioral outcomes like reaching, remains unclear. Previous research has primarily focused on perceptual aspects rather than on how stereoscopic visual input impacts motor control at the behavioral level. Thus, we investigated the effects of stereoscopic objects in a VR environment on reaching performance, examining whether the stereoscopic effect of objects is a significant aspect enough to affect performance at the behavioral level. While doing so, we investigated young and older adults separately, as age is a critical factor influencing motor performance. Fourteen young and 23 older participants performed a reaching task in the VR space. The target objects were 2D and 3D, deviating from the initial position by 10 and 20 cm. The movement attributed to feedforward control was analyzed using end-point error and smoothness of movement. Our results revealed that older participants had significantly worse predictive control than young participants in the 3D long task, suggesting that the positions of 3D objects were more difficult to predict than those of 2D objects. Young participants showed a significant difference in smoothness between 2D and 3D objects, which was not observed in older participants. This may reflect the floor effect in older participants. Under the short-distance condition, neither group showed a significant difference, suggesting the ceiling effect by distance. We confirmed that the effect of stereoscopic objects was not drastic but it did hamper the reaching performance.
The Awe-Inspiring Power of Quantum Computers
Authors: Green Josh , Wang Jingbo
Published: November 2024

Quantum computing is an emerging field of research and technology that harnesses a science called quantum mechanics to create computers with revolutionary capabilities. Although existing quantum computers are limited in size and prone to significant errors, future quantum computers might be capable of performing tasks that were once considered unimaginable using even the world’s most powerful supercomputers. This means that quantum computers could revolutionize many important areas of our lives! In this article, we will explore quantum computing by first reviewing how our current computers work. Then, we will dive into what makes quantum computers potentially far more powerful. We will especially focus on the source of their immense power: the ability of tiny particles to be in multiple states at the same time!
Comprehensive evaluation of fertilizer treatments on biometric traits and marketable tuber weight across diverse potato varieties
Authors: Sibirev Alexey V.
Published: November 2024

Introduction

The efficiency of potato production depends to a large extent on the production of quality seeds that meet the requirements of the growing region. The main component of this production includes breeding, which creates the genetic basis of seeds. The process of establishing patterns between the amount of fertilizer application (“Aquarin 12,” “Bona Forte,” “Osmocote Exact High K”), their type, and biometric characteristics of potato plants of the studied varieties “Guliver,” “Beauty of Meshchera,” and “Grand” was explored.

Methods

During the experimental studies, the methods of variation statistics, the technique of field experiment with the corresponding transformations to achieve normal distribution, and subsequent dispersion analysis were used.

Results

The results of the research on the evaluation of potato structural elements depending on the plant nutrition system of the studied varieties testify to the expediency of using nutrient solutions in potato cultivation irrespective of their type. In addition, it has been established that increasing the concentration of the nutrient base solution from 75 to 125% of the nutrient formula improves the quality indicators of minitubers, namely the content of starch, sugars, dry matter, crude protein, phosphorus, specific gravity, and ash content, which can contribute to obtaining high-quality potatoes.

Discussion

Thus, the use of morphological and physiological tools in closed ecosystems is informative for predicting key agricultural characteristics of potato plants. Additionally, integrating organic amendments and biofertilizers, as supported by other studies, could further enhance nutrient uptake and plant health, especially under conditions of low irrigation.
Case series: Cervical far-lateral and combined cervical far lateral/foraminal intervertebral disk extrusions in 10 dogs
Authors: Santifort Koen M. , Gomes Sergio , Ruggeri Marco , Alcoverro Emili , Tauro Anna , Lichtenauer Esther , Van Soens Iris , Garosi Laurent , Carrera Ines , Bergknut Niklas , Farre Marine Alba , Luján Feliu-Pascual Alejandro
Published: November 2024

Far-lateral intervertebral disk extrusions (IVDEs) have been reported infrequently in dogs in veterinary literature, mostly affecting the caudal lumbar intervertebral disks. We describe the clinical findings, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings, treatment, and outcome in 10 dogs with cervical far-lateral IVDEs. Patient databases of 3 small animal hospitals and 1 veterinary teleradiology service were retrospectively searched for patients in which imaging studies (CT or MRI) identified the presence of intervertebral disk material outside the limits of the intervertebral foramen. Presenting clinical signs included: episodic signs of cervical pain (6/10, 30%), persistent signs of cervical pain (3/10, 50%), nerve root signature or lameness (5/10, 50%), and abnormal cervical posture only (excluding nerve root signature) (1/10, 10%). Affected IVD spaces (for 11 IVDEs in 10 dogs) included: C3-4 (6/11, 55%), C5-6 (3/11, 27%), and C2-3 (2/11, 18%). Nerve root signature was not reported for C2-3 IVDEs. All cases were managed medically (without surgery). The top 3 used medications were gabapentinoids (10/10, 100%), non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (10/10, 100%), and paracetamol (3/10, 30%). Median treatment duration was 25 days (range 10–84). Short-term outcome (<3 months) was recorded in 9/10 (90%) cases. Resolution of clinical signs was reported in 7/9 (78%) cases. Long-term follow-up was available for 6/10 (60%) cases (median 11.5 months, range 5.5–30 months); 5/6 (83%) showed resolution of clinical signs. Recurrence of clinical signs was reported in 1 case (9 months later), managed medically again, with successful outcome. In conclusion, cervical far-lateral disk extrusions are a rare clinical entity in dogs, but can result in severe, persistent or episodic, pain. Medical management is associated with a positive short- and long-term outcome in most cases.
Molecular Detection of the Grapevine Pathogens Plasmopara viticola and Erysiphe necator from Airborne Inoculum Collector Cyclones
Authors: Balduque-Gil Joaquín , Garcés-Claver Ana , Pérez-Lamuela Inés , Barriuso-Vargas Juan J. , Fayos Oreto
Published: November 2024

Grapevine (Vitis vinifera L.) varieties are particularly susceptible to the pathogens downy mildew Plasmopara viticola and powdery mildew Erysiphe necator. Conventional methods for identifying and classifying spores rely on time-consuming microscopic examinations susceptible to human error and requiring qualified personnel. The aim of the present work has focused on the establishment of a protocol for the rapid molecular detection of the fungal species P. viticola and E. necator from adhesive tapes used to trap spores in airborne inoculum collector cyclones. Four DNA extraction methods were tested. Subsequently, molecular detection of both pathogens was performed by validating some of the specific molecular markers available in the literature. PCR with the primers Nad9 cob-F/Nad9 cob-R and Uncin144/Uncin511 showed specific results for P. viticola and E. necator, respectively, and the best results were obtained with the T-CTAB method. The methodology developed in this work could be of great help for relating direct measurement of P. viticola and E. necator airborne inoculum to disease risk and detection of pathogens, which could be integrated into the early diagnosis of these grapevine pathogens, improving existing warning systems such as Decision Support Systems.
Immunohistochemical Investigation of Cyclooxygenase-2 Expression in Rabbit Uterine Adenocarcinoma and the Potential Use of COX-2 Inhibitors in Cancer Therapy
Authors: Vaccaro Emanuela , Navas Luigi , Ercolano Martina , Piegari Giuseppe , Di Napoli Evaristo , Papparella Serenella , Inverso Donato , Brunetti Barbara , Paciello Orlando , Russo Valeria
Published: November 2024

Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) is overexpressed in many human and animal cancers. Selective COX-2 inhibitors have shown antitumoral effects in tumors with a high expression of COX-2. This study evaluates (1) the expression of COX-2 in rabbit uterine adenocarcinomas, (2) the correlation between immunophenotypic expression and histopathological changes, and (3) the post-surgery response to therapy with COX-2 inhibitors. Forty rabbit uteri were divided into three groups: neoplastic, hyperplastic, and normal endometrium. A histological and immunohistochemical score was applied to investigate the tumor’s grade and the COX-2 expression. By histological evaluation, 30 cases of endometrial adenocarcinoma, 5 cases of endometrial hyperplasia and 5 normal endometria were found. Of the six cases of endometrial adenocarcinoma with follow-up available, four received a post-surgical treatment with meloxicam and two were treated by surgery alone. The survival time of the animals treated with meloxicam was longer than that observed in the untreated animals. A statistically significant difference in COX-2 IHS was observed between non-neoplastic endometrium and adenocarcinoma. The progressive increase in COX-2 expression from normal epithelium to carcinoma suggests that upregulation of COX-2 expression may play a role in tumor initiation and progression. Our findings suggest the possible use of COX-2 inhibitors in treating uterine adenocarcinoma in rabbits. Further study will be needed to confirm this hypothesis.
Productive Performance and Carcass Characteristics of Broiler Chickens Fed on Diets with Different Protein, Energy Levels, and Essential Oils During the Warm Season in Dry Tropics
Authors: García-García Jorge H. , Salinas-Chavira Jaime , Benavides-González Flaviano , Corona-Barrera Enrique , Romero-Treviño Elvia M. , Loredo-Osti Jorge
Published: November 2024

This study evaluated the productive performance and carcass traits of broiler chickens during the warm season in dry tropical conditions. Two hundred, 1-day-old chicks were used. Birds were fed on reduced (RED) and standard (STD) diets, and two essential oils (EOs) levels, 0 and 200 ppm. The RED diets were formulated with 10% less energy and 10% less protein than STD diets. In the starter phase, weight gain was greater (p < 0.01) in birds fed STD than birds fed RED. In the starter phase, productive variables were not affected (p ≥ 0.14) by EOs. In the finisher phase, greater feed intake (p = 0.02) and higher weight gain (p = 0.04) were observed in chickens on STD. Feed conversion ratio was similar (p = 0.97) for STD and RED. Throughout this study (1–42 d), greater feed intake (p = 0.02) and higher weight gain (p < 0.01) were found in chickens on STD. Feed conversion ratio was similar (p = 0.51) for STD and RED. Broiler chickens on EO-supplemented diets had better feed conversion (p ≥ 0.08). Hot carcass weight was greater (p < 0.01) in birds on STD. Greater yields of leg-thigh (p = 0.01), back (p = 0.01), and wings (p < 0.01) were observed in RED. Carcass yields, breast yield, pH, and meat temperature were not influenced (p ≥ 0.14) by nutrient concentrations in the diet. Carcass evaluations were not affected (p ≥ 0.11) by EOs. Body temperature was lower (p = 0.03) in birds receiving RED, however EOs had no effect (p ≥ 0.22) on body temperature. For the length of the study, at 20:00 h, broiler chickens fed on RED diets showed lower (p = 0.04) body temperatures. In conclusion, broiler chickens were under heat stress during the study, and body temperatures were reduced in chickens fed on RED diets or with EOs. Diet modification or EO-supplementation may improve feed conversion, though RED diets may have a negative effect on weight gain or carcass values.
Prognostic Significance of Microvessel Density and Hypoxic Markers in Canine Osteosarcoma: Insights into Angiogenesis and Tumor Aggressiveness
Authors: Gola Cecilia , Massimini Marcella , Morello Emanuela , Maniscalco Lorella , Conti Luiza Cesar , Romanucci Mariarita , Olimpo Matteo , Della Salda Leonardo , De Maria Raffaella
Published: November 2024

Canine osteosarcoma (OSA) is an aggressive and highly malignant tumor of bone with a poor prognosis and it mirrors the disease in humans. Angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels, is driven by hypoxia-induced factors such as HIF-1α and VEGF, both of which play a crucial role in tumor growth and metastasis. However, the role of angiogenesis in OSA remains a topic of ongoing debate. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between angiogenesis, measured by intratumoral microvessel density (MVD), hypoxic markers, and clinical outcomes in 28 dogs diagnosed with appendicular OSA. Clinicopathological data such as age, breed distribution, tumor localization, histopathological subtypes, and metastatic behavior were consistent with reported epidemiologic characteristics of canine OSA, though no significant correlation was found among these variables. The results indicated a significant association between higher MVD and high-grade OSA (p = 0.029), suggesting that increased tumor vascularization is linked to more aggressive tumor behavior. Additionally, elevated VEGF expression was strongly correlated with disease-free interval DFI), with a p-value of 0.045. Although HIF-1α positivity showed a trend towards poorer survival, the results did not reach statistical significance (p = 0.07). These findings highlight the potential role of VEGF as a valuable prognostic marker in canine OSA, which could have potentially important implications for therapeutic targeting and clinical management of the disease. This study advances the understanding of angiogenesis in canine OSA, while emphasizing the need for continued research into the complex mechanisms regulating the interplay between hypoxia, angiogenesis and tumor progression.
Social Enrichment Improves Affective State and Foraging Behavior Compared to Physical Enrichment, While Maintaining Growth Performance in Broiler Chickens
Authors: Herrera-Alcaíno Sofía , Luna Daniela , González-Pavez Jorge , Cordero Paloma , Guzmán-Pino Sergio A.
Published: November 2024

Environmental enrichment is key for improving the broiler welfare in intensive production systems. This study lasted for 43 days and evaluated the effects of physical and social enrichment on broiler welfare. A total of 96 one-day-old male broilers were divided into two treatments: control treatment, provided with physical enrichment (n = 48) including perches, platforms, and straw bales; and social treatment (n = 48), involving regular positive interactions with a human. The behavioral repertoire, footpad health, taste preferences for sweet and umami compounds, affective states (through tonic immobility and attention bias tests), and growth performance were evaluated. No effects were found for feeding, drinking, locomotion, lying, or standing behaviors, although differences were observed at specific time points: the Social group had more feeding time on day 21 (p = 0.046), while physical treatment showed reductions on days 28 and 35 (p < 0.001). The Social group showed increased drinking on day 42 (p < 0.001), reduced locomotion (p = 0.022), and increased lying (p = 0.046) on day 42. Foraging was higher in the Social group (p = 0.027), but preening showed no differences. Footpad lesions showed no significant differences. The Control group preferred sucrose 100 mM (p = 0.022), but no preference for MSG 300 mM was observed. With regard to tonic immobility, the Control group showed a tendency towards larger durations (p = 0.078), indicating a potential increase in fearfulness. In the attention bias test, although the freezing behavior increased, the latency to begin feeding was shorter in the Social group (p < 0.001), suggesting an improved affective state. Lastly, no significant differences were observed for any of the growth parameters, including average daily feed intake, average daily gain, feed conversion ratio, or final body weight, indicating that the Social group maintained productivity. This approach provides a practical solution for improving the quality of life for broilers in intensive systems.
Data-Driven Approaches in Antimicrobial Resistance: Machine Learning Solutions
Authors: Sakagianni Aikaterini , Koufopoulou Christina , Koufopoulos Petros , Kalantzi Sofia , Theodorakis Nikolaos , Nikolaou Maria , Paxinou Evgenia , Kalles Dimitris , Verykios Vassilios S. , Myrianthefs Pavlos , Feretzakis Georgios
Published: November 2024

Background/Objectives: The emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) due to the misuse and overuse of antibiotics has become a critical threat to global public health. There is a dire need to forecast AMR to understand the underlying mechanisms of resistance for the development of effective interventions. This paper explores the capability of machine learning (ML) methods, particularly unsupervised learning methods, to enhance the understanding and prediction of AMR. It aims to determine the patterns from AMR gene data that are clinically relevant and, in public health, capable of informing strategies. Methods: We analyzed AMR gene data in the PanRes dataset by applying unsupervised learning techniques, namely K-means clustering and Principal Component Analysis (PCA). These techniques were applied to identify clusters based on gene length and distribution according to resistance class, offering insights into the resistance genes’ structural and functional properties. Data preprocessing, such as filtering and normalization, was conducted prior to applying machine learning methods to ensure consistency and accuracy. Our methodology included the preprocessing of data and reduction of dimensionality to ensure that our models were both accurate and interpretable. Results: The unsupervised learning models highlighted distinct clusters of AMR genes, with significant patterns in gene length, including their associated resistance classes. Further dimensionality reduction by PCA allows for clearer visualizations of relationships among gene groupings. These patterns provide novel insights into the potential mechanisms of resistance, particularly the role of gene length in different resistance pathways. Conclusions: This study demonstrates the potential of ML, specifically unsupervised approaches, to enhance the understanding of AMR. The identified patterns in resistance genes could support clinical decision-making and inform public health interventions. However, challenges remain, particularly in integrating genomic data and ensuring model interpretability. Further research is needed to advance ML applications in AMR prediction and management.
SMS-Net: Bridging the Gap Between High Accuracy and Low Computational Cost in Pose Estimation
Authors: Noh Won-Jun , Moon Ki-Ryum , Lee Byoung-Dai
Published: November 2024

Human pose estimation identifies and classifies key joints of the human body in images or videos. Existing pose estimation methods can precisely capture human movements in real time but require significant computational time and resources, which restricts their usage in specific conditions. Thus, we propose a lightweight pose estimation model—SMS-Net—based on the sequentially stacked structure of the hourglass network. The proposed model uses various lightweight techniques to enable high-speed pose estimation while requiring minimal storage space and computation. Specifically, a shuffle-gated block was introduced to reduce the computational load and number of parameters during the feature extraction process of the encoder composing each hourglass network. A multi-dilation block was used in the decoder to secure the receptive fields of various scales without increasing the computational load. The performance of the proposed model was assessed using the MPII and Common Objects in Context (COCO) datasets used for pose estimation and certain performance metrics and compared with state-of-the-art lightweight pose estimation models. Furthermore, an ablation study was performed to assess the impact of each module on network performance and efficiency. The results demonstrate that the proposed model achieved an improved balance between computational efficiency and performance compared to existing models in human pose estimation. Overall, the study findings can provide a basis for applications in computer vision technology.
Breakthrough and Challenging Application: Mixed Reality-Assisted Intracardiac Surgery
Authors: Marinozzi Franco , Franzò Michela , Bicchierini Sara , D’Abramo Mizar , Saade Wael , Mazzesi Giuseppe , Bini Fabiano
Published: November 2024

Background: While several studies investigate the utility and clinical value of 3D printing in aiding diagnosis, medical education, preoperative planning, and intraoperative guidance of surgical interventions, there is a scarcity of literature regarding concrete applications of mixed reality in the cardiovascular domain due to its nascent stage of study and expansion. This study goes beyond a mere three-dimensional visualization of the cardiac district, aiming to visualize the intracardiac structures within the scope of preoperative planning for cardiac surgery. Methods: The segmentation of the heart was performed through an open-source and a professional software and by applying different procedures. Each anatomical component of the heart, including the aortic valve, was accurately segmented and a 3D model was built to represent the entire heart. Results: Beyond the three-dimensional visualization of the cardiac region, the intracardiac structures were also segmented. A mixed-reality app was implemented with the possibility of exploding the model, interacting with it, and freely sectioning it with a plane. Conclusions: The proposed segmentation methodology allows a segmentation of the valve and the intracardiac structures. Furthermore, the mixed-reality app has confirmed the potential of this technology in diagnostic and preoperative planning, although some limitations should still be overcome.
A BiGRU Model Based on the DBO Algorithm for Cloud-Edge Communication Networks
Authors: Zha Zhiyong , He Jianwen , Zhen Lei , Yu Mingyang , Dong Chenxi , Li Zhikang , Wu Geng , Zuo Haoran , Peng Kai
Published: November 2024

With the development of IoT technology, central cloud servers and edge-computing servers together form a cloud–edge communication network to meet the increasing demand for computing tasks. The data transmitted in this network is of high value, so the ability to quickly and accurately predict the traffic load of each link becomes critical to ensuring the security and stable operation of the network. In order to effectively counter the potential threat of flood attacks on network stability, we combine the Bi-directional Gated Recurrent Unit (BiGRU) model with the Dung Beetle Optimizer (DBO) algorithm to design a DBO-BiGRU short-term traffic load prediction model. Experimental validation on a public dataset shows that the proposed model has better prediction accuracy and fit than the mainstream models of RNN, LSTM, and TCN.
Optimization of Vacuum Freeze-Drying Process and Quality Evaluation of Stropharia rugosoannulata
Authors: Jia Zixuan , Zhou Jianwei , Wang Wenjun , Liu Donghong , Zheng Xin , Hu Mifen , Jiang Yingying , Lv Ruiling
Published: November 2024

Stropharia rugosoannulata is a valuable medicinal and food fungus with high nutritive value. Freeze-drying addresses the storage and transportation challenges of fresh Stropharia rugosoannulata, expanding its market while preserving its flavor and quality more effectively than other drying methods. This study optimizes the vacuum freeze-drying process for Stropharia rugosoannulata using an orthogonal experiment method. The process parameters were optimized to determine their effects on the quality of the vacuum freeze-dried product, including pre-freezing temperature, pre-freezing time, and freeze-drying time. The optimal conditions were identified as a pre-freezing time of 60 h, a pre-freezing temperature of −80 °C, and a freeze-drying time of 72 h. The optimal product exhibited a bright color close to its natural state, with minimal browning and its natural white color maintained post-drying. During the drying process, the internal structure of the raw materials remained intact. After drying, the finished product retained its natural form, making it suitable for sale on the market. The soluble protein content of the vacuum freeze-dried Stropharia rugosoannulata reached 68 mg/g. Optimizing the freeze-drying process can better preserve the tissue structure and bioactive substances of Stropharia rugosoannulata, providing a reference for high-quality food processing and showing potential for sustainable development.
Review of the Failure at the Flotation Tailings Storage Facility of the “Stolice” Mine (Serbia)
Authors: Nišić Dragana , Aleksić Nikoleta , Živanović Bojan , Pantelić Uroš , Rupar Veljko
Published: November 2024

A detailed analysis of the accident that occurred at the flotation tailings storage facility (TSF) at the inactive mine “Stolice” in 2014 is provided in this paper. All factors that caused the accident have been analyzed, with a review of the consequences of the accident, their accident class according to the Global Industry Standard on Tailings (GISTM), and the implemented measures to rehabilitate the TSF and the surrounding area after the accident. It has been concluded that the TSF had not been properly maintained even before the accident occurred and that the unfavorable weather conditions in Serbia in the May of that year contributed to the filtration disturbance and multiple tailings spillages from the TSF. It has been stated that the consequences according to the GISTM span from “low” to “significant”, with the group of environmental consequences having the highest rank (3). Although the accident occurred without recorded human casualties, with the damage being of a local nature, it is considered one of the most significant accidents at a TSF in Serbia in the last 20 years. The reconstructed TSF is considered stable now, with a low-to-medium risk of failure.
Experimental Investigations of Seismic Performance of Girder–Integral Abutment–Reinforced-Concrete Pile–Soil Systems
Authors: Guo Weiqiang , Briseghella Bruno , Xue Junqing , Nuti Camillo , Huang Fuyun
Published: November 2024

Integral abutment bridges (IABs) have been widely applied in bridge engineering because of their excellent seismic performance, long service life, and low maintenance cost. The superstructure and substructure of an IAB are integrally connected to reduce the possibility of collapse or girders falling during an earthquake. The soil behind the abutment can provide a damping effect to reduce the deformation of the structure under a seismic load. Girders have not been considered in some of the existing published experimental tests on integral abutment–reinforced-concrete (RC) pile (IAP)–soil systems, which may not accurately represent real conditions. A pseudo-static low-cycle test on a girder–integral abutment–RC pile (GIAP)–soil system was conducted for an IAB in China. The experiment’s results for the GIAP specimen were compared with those of the IAP specimen, including the failure mode, hysteretic curve, energy dissipation capacity, skeleton curve, stiffness degradation, and displacement ductility. The test results indicate that the failure modes of both specimens were different. For the IAP specimen, the pile cracked at a displacement of +2 mm, while the abutment did not crack during the test. For the GIAP specimen, the pile cracked at a displacement of −8 mm, and the abutment cracked at a displacement of 50 mm. The failure mode of the specimen changed from severe damage to the pile top under a small displacement to damage to both the abutment and pile top under a large displacement. Compared with the IAP specimen, the initial stiffness under positive horizontal displacement (39.2%), residual force accumulation (22.6%), residual deformation (12.6%), range of the elastoplastic stage in the skeleton curve, and stiffness degradation of the GIAP specimen were smaller; however, the initial stiffness under negative horizontal displacement (112.6%), displacement ductility coefficient (67.2%), average equivalent viscous damping ratio (30.8%), yield load (20.4%), ultimate load (7.8%), and range of the elastic stage in the skeleton curve of the GIAP specimen were larger. In summary, the seismic performance of the GIAP–soil system was better than that of the IAP–soil system. Therefore, to accurately reflect the seismic performance of GIAP–soil systems in IABs, it is suggested to consider the influence of the girder.
Numerical Thermo-Hydraulic Simulation of Infiltration and Evaporation of Small-Scale Replica of Typical Dike Covers
Authors: Ponzoni Elisa , Cardoso Rafaela , Jommi Cristina
Published: November 2024

Measurements taken on a historical dike in the Netherlands over one year showed that interaction with the atmosphere led to oscillation of the piezometric surface of about 0.7 m. The observation raised concerns about the long-term performance of similar dikes and promoted a deeper investigation of the response of the cover layer to increasing climatic stresses. An experimental and numerical study was undertaken, which included an investigation in the laboratory of the unsaturated behavior of a scaled replica of the field cover. A sample extracted from the top clayey layer in the dike was subjected to eight drying and wetting cycles in a HYPROP™ device. Data recorded during the test provide an indication of the delayed response with depth during evaporation and infiltration. The measurements taken during this continuous dynamic process were simulated by means of a finite element discretization of the time-dependent coupled thermohydraulic response. The results of the numerical simulations are affected by the way in which the environmental loads are translated into numerical boundary conditions. Here, it was chosen to model drying considering only the transport of water vapor after equilibrium with the room atmosphere, while water in the liquid phase was added upon wetting. The simulation was able to reproduce the water mass balance exchange observed during four complete drying–wetting cycles, although the simulated drying rate was faster than the observed one. The numerical curves describing suction, the amount of vapor and temperature are identical, confirming that vapor generation and its equilibrium is control the hydraulic response of the material. Vapor generation and diffusion depend on temperature; therefore, correct characterization of the thermal properties of the soil is of paramount importance when dealing with evaporation and related non-steady equilibrium states.
Novel Steganographic Method Based on Hermitian Positive Definite Matrix and Weighted Moore–Penrose Inverses
Authors: Pepić Selver , Saračević Muzafer , Selim Aybeyan , Karabašević Darjan , Mojsilović Marija , Hasić Amor , Brzaković Pavle
Published: November 2024

In this paper, we describe the concept of a new data-hiding technique for steganography in RGB images where a secret message is embedded in the blue layer of specific bytes. For increasing security, bytes are chosen randomly using a random square Hermitian positive definite matrix, which is a stego-key. The proposed solution represents a very strong key since the number of variants of positive definite matrices of order 8 is huge. Implementing the proposed steganographic method consists of splitting a color image into its R, G, and B channels and implementing two segments, which take place in several phases. The first segment refers to embedding a secret message in the carrier (image or text) based on the unique absolute elements values of the Hermitian positive definite matrix. The second segment refers to extracting a hidden message based on a stego-key generated based on the Hermitian positive definite matrix elements. The objective of the data-hiding technique using a Hermitian positive definite matrix is to embed confidential or sensitive data within cover media (such as images, audio, or video) securely and imperceptibly; by doing so, the hidden data remain confidential and tamper-resistant while the cover media’s visual or auditory quality is maintained.
Limitations of Using DAQ Cards for Absolute Vibration Measurement in Hydraulic Machines
Authors: Janicki Waldemar
Published: November 2024

Vibration measurements are a frequently used tool in technical issues. They are widely used in operation and for testing irregularities in the operation of machines and devices, including hydraulic machines (turbines, pumps, and pump turbines). This article considers the possibility of using measurement cards to measure the absolute vibrations of hydraulic machines. Basic information related to vibrations and their measurement, as well as requirements specified in standards related to vibrations of hydraulic machines, are presented. Then, six measurement cards are tested, and the possibility of their use in vibration measurements of hydraulic machines using accelerometers is analyzed.
Research on Weighted Network Model Construction and Layout Structure of New Energy Vehicle Charging Station
Authors: Xiao Wenwen , Che Xinyu , Yin Han , Wang Lili
Published: November 2024

(1) Background: Spatial layout is the key to the construction and development of new energy vehicle charging stations; (2) Methods: A network analysis method is used to build the new energy vehicle charging station network, design network indicators, analyze the structural characteristics of new energy vehicle charging stations based on the local nodes and the overall structure of the network, and identify the key nodes and important parts of the network; (3) Results: Taking the new energy vehicle charging station in Jinan City of Shandong Province as an example, the empirical analysis is carried out. The empirical results show that the new energy vehicle charging station network constructed in this paper and the network indicators designed can effectively describe the layout of new energy vehicle charging stations, identifying key stations and important parts of the network; (4) Conclusions: This provides a theoretical basis for further improving the utilization rate of charging stations and the reasonable planning of new energy vehicle charging stations. It provides an idea and method for the research on the layout of charging stations for new energy vehicles.