bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cutaneous Toll-like Receptor 9 Pre-Defines Hydroxychloroquine Dosage in Patients with Both Discoid and Subacute Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Englert Karolina A. , Dyduch Grzegorz , Kłosowicz Agata , Spałkowska Magdalena , Jaworek Andrzej Kazimierz , Migacz-Gruszka Kamila , Jarosz-Chudek Aleksandra , Mercuri Santo Raffaele , Szpor Joanna , Mazzoccoli Gianluigi , Damiani Giovanni , Wojas-Pelc Anna
Published: November 2023

Background and Objectives: Cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) presents clinically heterogeneous manifestations, partially explained by the different expression of Toll-like receptors (TLRs) type 8 and 9, located to endosomal compartments where they are poised to recognize microbial nucleic acids. This disease is empirically treated with hydroxychloroquine (HCQ), which is hallmarked with a safe and effective profile, but induces a slow and sometimes clinically insufficient therapeutic response. Currently, no biomarkers predictive of response are validated or even proposed in the scientific literature. We aimed to evaluate endosomal TLR type 7, 8 and 9 as predictive biomarkers of HCQ efficacy. Materials and Methods: We conducted a case–control study comparing CLE patients retrospectively assigned to three subgroups based on 3–6-month Cutaneous LE Disease Area and Severity Index (CLASI) reduction upon treatment with HCQ (I = <40% vs. II = 40–80% vs. III = >80%). Before HCQ, lesional skin specimens were collected in untreated CLE and through immunohistochemistry; TLR-7, -8 and -9 expression was evaluated in the epidermis and the lymphocytic infiltrate was evaluated in the dermis. Results: Sixty-six lesional skin biopsies were compared with healthy controls. CLE patients displayed lower epidermal expression of total TLR 8 and 9 as well as infiltrating TLR-8, TLR9 + lymphocytes compared to controls. High HCQ responders differed from low responders for TLR-9 positivity (high vs. low) and for the lymphocytic dermal infiltrate (high vs. low). Conclusions: TLR9 could be envisaged as a possible biomarker to predict HCQ response level and dosage in CLE patients.
Clinical Characteristics and Diagnostic Prediction of Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome and Rickettsiosis in the Co-Endemic Wakayama Prefecture, Japan
Authors: Teramoto Kan , Tamura Shinobu , Yoshida Kikuaki , Inada Yukari , Yamashita Yusuke , Morimoto Masaya , Mushino Toshiki , Koreeda Daisuke , Miyamoto Kyohei , Komiya Nobuhiro , Nakano Yoshio , Takagaki Yusaku , Koizumi Yusuke
Published: November 2023

Background and Objectives: The Wakayama prefecture is endemic for two types of tick-borne rickettsioses: Japanese spotted fever (JFS) and scrub typhus (ST). Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) is a tick-borne hemorrhagic viral disease with a high mortality rate and is often difficult to differentiate from such rickettsioses. SFTS cases have recently increased in Wakayama prefecture. For early diagnosis, this study aimed to evaluate the clinical characterization of such tick-borne infections in the co-endemic area. Materials and Methods: The study included 64 febrile patients diagnosed with tick-borne infection in Wakayama prefecture between January 2013 and May 2022. Medical records of 19 patients with SFTS and 45 with rickettsiosis (JSF, n = 26; ST, n = 19) were retrospectively examined. The receiver operating curve (ROC) and area under the curve (AUC) were calculated to evaluate potential factors for differentiating SFTS from rickettsiosis. Results: Adults aged ≥70 years were most vulnerable to tick-borne infections (median, 75.5 years; interquartile range, 68.5–84 years). SFTS and rickettsiosis occurred mostly between summer and autumn. However, no significant between-group differences were found in age, sex, and comorbidities; 17 (89%) patients with SFTS, but none of those with rickettsiosis, experienced gastrointestinal symptoms such as vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Meanwhile, 43 (96%) patients with rickettsiosis, but none of those with SFTS, developed a skin rash. The AUCs of white blood cells (0.97) and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels (0.98) were very high. Furthermore, the differential diagnosis of SFTS was significantly associated with the presence of gastrointestinal symptoms (AUC 0.95), the absence of a skin rash (AUC 0.98), leukopenia <3.7 × 109/L (AUC 0.95), and low CRP levels < 1.66 mg/dL (AUC 0.98) (p < 0.001 for each factor). Conclusions: Clinical characteristics and standard laboratory parameters can verify the early diagnosis of SFTS in areas where tick-borne infections are endemic.
Genetic Variants in Matrix Metalloproteinases MMP3 (rs3025058) and MMP9 (rs3918242) Associated with Colonic Diverticulosis
Authors: Nehring Piotr , Gromadzka Grażyna , Jastrzębski Miłosz , Przybyłkowski Adam
Published: November 2023

Background and Objectives: Diverticulosis affects a significant portion of the elderly population, with age and lifestyle being established risk factors. Additionally, genetic predisposition is gaining recognition as a contributing factor. This pilot study sought to explore the frequency of genetic variants in matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) 3, 9, and 12 in a population of colonic diverticulosis patients. Materials and Methods: The study encompassed 134 participants: 59 diagnosed with colon diverticulosis during colonoscopy and 75 healthy controls. The cases and controls were meticulously matched in terms of age and gender. We assessed the distribution of genetic variants MMP3 rs3025058, MMP9 rs3918242, and MMP12 rs2276109 using the polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragments length polymorphism technique. Results: The MMP9 rs3918242 allele T was notably more frequent in individuals with diverticulosis when compared with the control group (p < 0.03). Furthermore, it was associated with dominant (OR = 2.62; 95% CI: 1.24–5.56; p < 0.01) and co-dominant (OR = 2.10; 95% CI: 1.06–4.13; p < 0.03) genetic models. The MMP3 rs3025058 5A/5A genotype was nearly twice as frequent in patients with diverticulosis, while the 6A/6A genotype was only half as common in this group. Conversely, no significant correlation was established between MMP12 rs2276109 and colonic diverticulosis. Conclusions: Our study offers the first insight into a potential connection between genetic variants in MMPs and colon diverticulosis. Specifically, allele T of MMP9 rs3918242 and allele 5A of MMP3 rs3025058 appear to be linked to this condition. These findings indirectly suggest a role for extracellular matrix proteins in the pathogenesis of diverticulosis.
Postoperative Cognitive Impairment and Pain Perception after Abdominal Surgery—Could Immersive Virtual Reality Bring More? A Clinical Approach
Authors: Droc Gabriela , Isac Sebastian , Nita Elisabeta , Martac Cristina , Jipa Miruna , Mihai Diana Irene , Cobilinschi Cristian , Badea Andrada-Georgiana , Ojog Damiana , Pavel Bogdan , Tanasescu Maria-Daniela , Isac Teodora
Published: November 2023

Background and Objectives: Impaired cognition and pain after surgery contribute to prolonged hospital stays and increased mortality rates. Thus, the development of preemptive algorithms for reducing their impact should be prioritized. The main objectives of the present study were to evaluate the efficiency of using virtual reality (VR) to treat postoperative cognitive decline and pain perception. Materials and Methods: The study was a prospective, monocentric, clinical study that included 51 patients who have undergone major abdominal surgery. The patients were divided into two groups: Control (n = 25) and VR (n = 26). The VR sessions consisted of 5–8 min exposure at 24–48 h after surgery. We considered the outcome variables, the mini-mental state examination, and visual analogue scale at 24–48 h after surgery. The dependent variables were age, social status, educational level, and duration of surgery. Results: We did not observe any differences in postoperative cognition deficit with regard to VR. The VR, however, successfully reduced postoperative pain intensity. Moreover, the patients’ age, surgery duration, level of education, and social status influenced the MMSE score at 24–48 h after surgery. Conclusions: Even if using VR does not alleviate short-term postoperative cognitive impairments, it could affect pain perception. Further studies are needed to support the use of VR in perioperative contexts.
Prevention of Migration of Esophageal Self-Expandable Metallic Stents Using Endoscopic Clips
Authors: Boyanov Nikola , Shtereva Katina , Madzharova Katerina , Kirkov Liuben , Shopov Neno , Andonov Vladimir
Published: November 2023

Background and Objectives: Esophageal stenting with self-expandable metallic stents (SEMS), for both benign and malignant reasons, has been widely practiced for decades, but migration still remains the most common complication of the procedure. In this report we aim to review our experience and results in stent fixation with clips. Materials and Methods: We present 18 patients who underwent esophageal stenting for both benign and malignant reasons. The SEMSs used were partially covered and were fixated with two to four through the scope hemostatic clips in the proximal end of the prothesis. The procedure was performed only on patients with a high risk of migration of the stent. Results: Migration occurred in only one of the above-mentioned patients and was treated with stent repositioning. The other adverse events that occurred were related to tumor growth in patients with malignant diseases. Conclusions: Clip fixation of an esophageal self-expandable metallic stent in cases considered high-risk for migration is a safe procedure. It reduces the migration rate significantly for both benign and malignant indications.
Effect of L. crispatus M247 Administration on Pregnancy Outcomes in Women Undergoing IVF: A Controlled, Retrospective, Observational, and Open-Label Study
Authors: Di Pierro Francesco , Sinatra Francesco , Cester Maddalena , Da Ros Lucia , Pistolato Mara , Da Parè Vania , Fabbro Laura , Maccari Daniela , Dotto Silvia , Sossai Sara , Fabozzi Gemma , Bertuccioli Alexander , Cazzaniga Massimiliano , Recchia Martino , Zerbinati Nicola , Guasti Luigina , Baffoni Andrea
Published: November 2023

The aim of our study was to retrospectively evaluate whether the oral administration of L. crispatus (M247) could increase pregnancy and live birth rates in women undergoing assisted reproductive technology procedures. Enrolled women (N = 160) were divided into two groups: treated (N = 80) or untreated (N = 80) with the probiotic strain. The odds ratio (OR) for a treated woman to have a clinical pregnancy (CP) was 1.56. In women aged 30–40 years, M247 increased the probability of a CP in correlation with the progressive rise in BMI, reaching 47% (35% in controls) with a BMI of 35 (OR: 2.00). The CAID statistics showed that in a woman of the blastocyst subgroup, below 43 years, with a BMI over 18.6, treatment with M247 increased the chance of a CP from 28.4% to 44.5% (OR: 2.08; p < 0.05). Considering live births, the rate of the probiotic group was 12.5% versus 7.5% (OR: 1.76). Considering only the blastocyst subgroup, the treatment increased the number of live births by 200% (OR: 3.64; p = 0.05). As confirmed also by statistical indices NNT, NNH, and LHH, the use of M247 demonstrated a risk-benefit ratio to the full advantage of the benefits.
The Role of Stakeholders’ Understandings in Emerging Antimicrobial Resistance: A One Health Approach
Authors: Nardulli Patrizia , Ballini Andrea , Zamparella Maria , De Vito Danila
Published: November 2023

The increasing misuse of antibiotics in human and veterinary medicine and in agroecosystems and the consequent selective pressure of resistant strains lead to multidrug resistance (AMR), an expanding global phenomenon. Indeed, this phenomenon represents a major public health target with significant clinical implications related to increased morbidity and mortality and prolonged hospital stays. The current presence of microorganisms multi-resistant to antibiotics isolated in patients is a problem because of the additional burden of disease it places on the most fragile patients and the difficulty of finding effective therapies. In recent decades, international organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) have played significant roles in addressing the issue of AMR. The ECDC estimates that in the European Union alone, antibiotic resistance causes 33,000 deaths and approximately 880,000 cases of disability each year. The epidemiological impact of AMR inevitably also has direct economic consequences related not only to the loss of life but also to a reduction in the number of days worked, increased use of healthcare resources for diagnostic procedures and the use of second-line antibiotics when available. In 2015, the WHO, recognising AMR as a complex problem that can only be addressed by coordinated multi-sectoral interventions, promoted the One Health approach that considers human, animal, and environmental health in an integrated manner. In this review, the authors try to address why a collaboration of all stakeholders involved in AMR growth and management is necessary in order to achieve optimal health for people, animals, plants, and the environment, highlighting that AMR is a growing threat to human and animal health, food safety and security, economic prosperity, and ecosystems worldwide.
Regulatory Functions of PurR in Yersinia pestis: Orchestrating Diverse Biological Activities
Authors: Xiao Liting , Jin Junyan , Song Kai , Qian Xiuwei , Wu Yarong , Sun Zhulin , Xiong Ziyao , Li Yanbing , Zhao Yanting , Shen Leiming , Cui Yiming , Yao Wenwu , Cui Yujun , Song Yajun
Published: November 2023

The bacterium Yersinia pestis has developed various strategies to sense and respond to the complex stresses encountered during its transmission and pathogenic processes. PurR is a common transcriptional regulator of purine biosynthesis among microorganisms, and it modulates the transcription level of the pur operon to suppress the production of hypoxanthine nucleotide (IMP). This study aims to understand the functions and regulatory mechanisms of purR in Y. pestis. Firstly, we constructed a purR knockout mutant of Y. pestis strain 201 and compared certain phenotypes of the null mutant (201-ΔpurR) and the wild-type strain (201-WT). The results show that deleting purR has no significant impact on the biofilm formation, growth rate, or viability of Y. pestis under different stress conditions (heat and cold shock, high salinity, and hyperosmotic pressure). Although the cytotoxicity of the purR knockout mutant on HeLa and 293 cells is reduced, the animal-challenging test found no difference of the virulence in mice between 201-ΔpurR and 201-WT. Furthermore, RNA-seq and EMSA analyses demonstrate that PurR binds to the promoter regions of at least 15 genes in Y. pestis strain 201, primarily involved in purine biosynthesis, along with others not previously observed in other bacteria. Additionally, RNA-seq results suggest the presence of 11 potential operons, including a newly identified co-transcriptional T6SS cluster. Thus, aside from its role as a regulator of purine biosynthesis, purR in Y. pestis may have additional regulatory functions.
Viremia and Inflammatory Cytokines in Dengue: Interleukin-2 as a Biomarker of Infection, and Interferon-α and -γ as Markers of Primary versus Secondary Infection
Authors: de Arruda Thaís Bonato , Bavia Lorena , Mosimann Ana Luiza Pamplona , Aoki Mateus Nobrega , Sarzi Maria Lo , Conchon-Costa Ivete , Wowk Pryscilla Fanini , Duarte dos Santos Claudia Nunes , Pavanelli Wander Rogério , Silveira Guilherme Ferreira , Bordignon Juliano
Published: November 2023

The pathogenesis of Dengue virus (DENV) infection is complex and involves viral replication that may trigger an inflammatory response leading to severe disease. Here, we investigated the correlation between viremia and cytokine levels in the serum of DENV-infected patients. Between 2013 and 2014, 138 patients with a diagnosis of acute-phase DENV infection and 22 patients with a non-dengue acute febrile illness (AFI) were enrolled. Through a focus-forming assay (FFU), we determined the viremia levels in DENV-infected patients and observed a peak in the first two days after the onset of symptoms. A higher level of viremia was observed in primary versus secondary DENV-infected patients. Furthermore, no correlation was observed between viremia and inflammatory cytokine levels in DENV-infected patients. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis revealed that IL-2 has the potential to act as a marker to distinguish dengue from other febrile illnesses and is positively correlated with Th1 cytokines. IFN-α and IFN-γ appear to be potential markers of primary versus secondary infection in DENV-infected patients, respectively. The results also indicate that viremia levels are not the main driving force behind inflammation in dengue and that cytokines could be used as infection biomarkers and for differentiation between primary versus secondary infection.
Development of a Set of Wheat-Rye Derivative Lines from Hexaploid Triticale with Complex Chromosomal Rearrangements to Improve Disease Resistance, Agronomic and Quality Traits of Wheat
Authors: Wang Tingting , Li Guangrong , Jiang Chengzhi , Zhou Yuwei , Yang Ennian , Li Jianbo , Zhang Peng , Dundas Ian , Yang Zujun
Published: November 2023

An elite hexaploid triticale Yukuri from Australia was used as a bridge for transferring valuable genes from Secale cereale L. into common wheat for enriching the genetic variability of cultivated wheat. Non-denaturing-fluorescence in situ hybridization (ND-FISH) identified that Yukuri was a secondary triticale with a complete set of rye chromosomes and a 6D(6A) substitution. Seed protein electrophoresis showed that Yukuri had a unique composition of glutenin subunits. A set of Yukuri-derived wheat-rye introgression lines were created from a Yukuri x wheat population, and all lines were identified by ND-FISH with multiple probes and validated by diagnostic molecular marker analysis. A total of 59 wheat-rye introgression lines including modified chromosome structural variations of wheat, and new complex recombinant chromosomes of rye were detected through ND-FISH and Oligo-FISH painting based on oligonucleotide pools derived from wheat-barley genome collinear regions. Wheat lines carrying the 1R chromosome from Yukuri displayed resistance to both stripe rust and powdery mildew, while the lines carrying the 3RL and 7RL chromosome arms showed stripe rust resistance. The chromosome 1R-derived lines were found to exhibit a significant effect on most of the dough-related parameters, and chromosome 5R was clearly associated with increased grain weight. The development of the wheat-rye cytogenetic stocks carrying disease resistances and superior agronomic traits, as well as the molecular markers and FISH probes will promote the introgression of abundant variation from rye into wheat improvement programs.
Exploration of Eco-Friendly Hydrochar’s Potential in Advanced Oxidative Processes for Dicamba Degradation within a Circular Bio-Economy Framework
Authors: Guimarães Tiago , Silva Elisa Maria Gomes da , Aguiar Adalin Cezar Moraes de , Costa Marcelo Moreira da , Mielke Kamila Cabral , Mendes Kassio Ferreira , Silva Antonio Alberto da , Teixeira Ana Paula de Carvalho , Moreira Renata Pereira Lopes
Published: November 2023

Dicamba, renowned for its limited sorption capacity, presents a substantial risk of contaminating surface and groundwater if the disposal of spray tank effluent is not adequately controlled. In this work, a dicamba effluent underwent treatment through a Fenton-like process employing an iron/hydrochar (Hy-Fe) composite, synthesized via hydrothermal methods using coffee husk as the precursor. The Hy-Fe displayed carbon, hydrogen, and nitrogen levels of 52.30%, 5.21%, and 1.49%, respectively. Additionally, the material exhibited a specific surface area measuring 9.00 m2 g−1. The presence of the γ-Fe2O3 phase within the composite was confirmed through X-ray diffraction analysis. The Fenton-like process employing Hy-Fe demonstrated approximately 100% degradation of dicamba within 5 h. The treated effluent underwent toxicity evaluation via biological assays using beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) as indicator plants, revealing no observable signs of intoxication. These findings were corroborated by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography, providing additional confirmation of the degradation results. Additionally, decontamination of personal protective equipment potentially contaminated with dicamba was also assessed. The Hy-Fe composite demonstrated reusability across three degradation cycles, achieving degradation percentages of 100%, 70%, and 60%, respectively. The Hy-Fe composite demonstrates substantial potential for use in a Fenton-like process. This process is characterized by its simplicity, speed, and sustainability. The notable effectiveness, evidenced by high degradation rates and minimal toxicity, underscores its suitability as a practical solution for addressing dicamba contamination.
Design and Experimental Assessment of Real-Time Anomaly Detection Techniques for Automotive Cybersecurity
Authors: Dini Pierpaolo , Saponara Sergio
Published: November 2023

In recent decades, an exponential surge in technological advancements has significantly transformed various aspects of daily life. The proliferation of indispensable objects such as smartphones and computers underscores the pervasive influence of technology. This trend extends to the domains of the healthcare, automotive, and industrial sectors, with the emergence of remote-operating capabilities and self-learning models. Notably, the automotive industry has integrated numerous remote access points like Wi-Fi, USB, Bluetooth, 4G/5G, and OBD-II interfaces into vehicles, amplifying the exposure of the Controller Area Network (CAN) bus to external threats. With a recognition of the susceptibility of the CAN bus to external attacks, there is an urgent need to develop robust security systems that are capable of detecting potential intrusions and malfunctions. This study aims to leverage fingerprinting techniques and neural networks on cost-effective embedded systems to construct an anomaly detection system for identifying abnormal behavior in the CAN bus. The research is structured into three parts, encompassing the application of fingerprinting techniques for data acquisition and neural network training, the design of an anomaly detection algorithm based on neural network results, and the simulation of typical CAN attack scenarios. Additionally, a thermal test was conducted to evaluate the algorithm’s resilience under varying temperatures.
Exploration and Gas Source Localization in Advection–Diffusion Processes with Potential-Field-Controlled Robotic Swarms
Authors: Hinsen Patrick , Wiedemann Thomas , Shutin Dmitriy , Lilienthal Achim J.
Published: November 2023

Mobile multi-robot systems are well suited for gas leak localization in challenging environments. They offer inherent advantages such as redundancy, scalability, and resilience to hazardous environments, all while enabling autonomous operation, which is key to efficient swarm exploration. To efficiently localize gas sources using concentration measurements, robots need to seek out informative sampling locations. For this, domain knowledge needs to be incorporated into their exploration strategy. We achieve this by means of partial differential equations incorporated into a probabilistic gas dispersion model that is used to generate a spatial uncertainty map of process parameters. Previously, we presented a potential-field-control approach for navigation based on this map. We build upon this work by considering a more realistic gas dispersion model, now taking into account the mechanism of advection, and dynamics of the gas concentration field. The proposed extension is evaluated through extensive simulations. We find that introducing fluctuations in the wind direction makes source localization a fundamentally harder problem to solve. Nevertheless, the proposed approach can recover the gas source distribution and compete with a systematic sampling strategy. The estimator we present in this work is able to robustly recover source candidates within only a few seconds. Larger swarms are able to reduce total uncertainty faster. Our findings emphasize the applicability and robustness of robotic swarm exploration in dynamic and challenging environments for tasks such as gas source localization.
Intelligent Estimation of Exercise Induced Energy Expenditure Including Excess Post-Exercise Oxygen Consumption (EPOC) with Different Exercise Intensity
Authors: Moon Junhyung , Oh Minsuk , Kim Soljee , Lee Kyoungwoo , Lee Junga , Song Yoonkyung , Jeon Justin Y.
Published: November 2023

The limited availability of calorimetry systems for estimating human energy expenditure (EE) while conducting exercise has prompted the development of wearable sensors utilizing readily accessible methods. We designed an energy expenditure estimation method which considers the energy consumed during the exercise, as well as the excess post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC) using machine learning algorithms. Thirty-two healthy adults (mean age = 28.2 years; 11 females) participated in 20 min of aerobic exercise sessions (low intensity = 40% of maximal oxygen uptake [VO2 max], high intensity = 70% of VO2 max). The physical characteristics, exercise intensity, and the heart rate data monitored from the beginning of the exercise sessions to where the participants’ metabolic rate returned to an idle state were used in the EE estimation models. Our proposed estimation shows up to 0.976 correlation between estimated energy expenditure and ground truth (root mean square error: 0.624 kcal/min). In conclusion, our study introduces a highly accurate method for estimating human energy expenditure during exercise using wearable sensors and machine learning. The achieved correlation up to 0.976 with ground truth values underscores its potential for widespread use in fitness, healthcare, and sports performance monitoring.
Path Loss Characterization in an Outdoor Corridor Environment for IoT-5G in a Smart Campus University at 850 MHz and 3.5 GHz Frequency Bands
Authors: Muñoz Juan , Mancipe David , Fernández Herman , Rubio Lorenzo , Rodrigo Peñarrocha Vicent M. , Reig Juan
Published: November 2023

The usage scenarios defined in the ITU-M2150-1 recommendation for IMT-2020 systems, including enhanced Mobile Broadband (eMBB), Ultra-reliable Low-latency Communication (URLLC), and massive Machine Type Communication (mMTC), allow the possibility of accessing different services through the set of Radio Interface Technologies (RITs), Long-term Evolution (LTE), and New Radio (NR), which are components of RIT. The potential of the low and medium frequency bands allocated by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for the fifth generation of mobile communications (5G) is described. In addition, in the Internet of Things (IoT) applications that will be covered by the case of use of the mMTC are framed. In this sense, a propagation channel measurement campaign was carried out at 850 MHz and 5.9 GHz in a covered corridor environment, located in an open space within the facilities of the Pedagogical and Technological University of Colombia campus. The measurements were carried out in the time domain using a channel sounder based on a Universal Software Radio Peripheral (USRP) to obtain the received signal power levels over a range of separation distances between the transmitter and receiver from 2.00 m to 67.5 m. Then, a link budget was proposed to describe the path loss behavior as a function of these distances to obtain the parameters for the close-in free space reference distance (CI) and the floating intercept (FI) path loss prediction models. These parameters were estimated from the measurements made using the Minimum Mean Square Error (MMSE) approach. The estimated path loss exponent (PLE) values for both the CI and FI path loss models at 850 MHz and 3.5 GHz are in the range of 2.21 to 2.41, respectively. This shows that the multipath effect causes a lack of constructive interference to the received power signal for this type of outdoor corridor scenario. These results can be used in simulation tools to evaluate the path loss behavior and optimize the deployment of device and sensor network infrastructure to enable 5G-IoT connectivity in smart university campus scenarios.
SFHG-YOLO: A Simple Real-Time Small-Object-Detection Method for Estimating Pineapple Yield from Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
Authors: Yu Guoyan , Wang Tao , Guo Guoquan , Liu Haochun
Published: November 2023

The counting of pineapple buds relies on target recognition in estimating pineapple yield using unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) photography. This research proposes the SFHG-YOLO method, with YOLOv5s as the baseline, to address the practical needs of identifying small objects (pineapple buds) in UAV vision and the drawbacks of existing algorithms in terms of real-time performance and accuracy. Field pineapple buds are small objects that may be detected in high density using a lightweight network model. This model enhances spatial attention and adaptive context information fusion to increase detection accuracy and resilience. To construct the lightweight network model, the first step involves utilizing the coordinate attention module and MobileNetV3. Additionally, to fully leverage feature information across various levels and enhance perception skills for tiny objects, we developed both an enhanced spatial attention module and an adaptive context information fusion module. Experiments were conducted to validate the suggested algorithm’s performance in detecting small objects. The SFHG-YOLO model exhibited significant gains in assessment measures, achieving mAP@0.5 and mAP@0.5:0.95 improvements of 7.4% and 31%, respectively, when compared to the baseline model YOLOv5s. Considering the model size and computational cost, the findings underscore the superior performance of the suggested technique in detecting high-density small items. This program offers a reliable detection approach for estimating pineapple yield by accurately identifying minute items.
An Adversarial Dual-Branch Network for Nonhomogeneous Dehazing in Tunnel Construction
Authors: Shi Zilu , Huo Junzhou , Meng Zhichao , Yang Fan , Wang Zejiang
Published: November 2023

The tunnel construction area poses significant challenges for the use of vision technology due to the presence of nonhomogeneous haze fields and low-contrast targets. However, existing dehazing algorithms display weak generalization, leading to dehazing failures, incomplete dehazing, or color distortion in this scenario. Therefore, an adversarial dual-branch convolutional neural network (ADN) is proposed in this paper to deal with the above challenges. The ADN utilizes two branches of the knowledge transfer sub-network and the multi-scale dense residual sub-network to process the hazy image and then aggregate the channels. This input is then passed through a discriminator to judge true and false, motivating the network to improve performance. Additionally, a tunnel haze field simulation dataset (Tunnel-HAZE) is established based on the characteristics of nonhomogeneous dust distribution and artificial light sources in the tunnel. Comparative experiments with existing advanced dehazing algorithms indicate an improvement in both PSNR (Peak Signal-to-Noise Ratio) and SSIM (Structural Similarity) by 4.07 dB and 0.032 dB, respectively. Furthermore, a binocular measurement experiment conducted in a simulated tunnel environment demonstrated a reduction in the relative error of measurement results by 50.5% when compared to the haze image. The results demonstrate the effectiveness and application potential of the proposed method in tunnel construction.
Unobstructive Heartbeat Monitoring of Sleeping Infants and Young Children Using Sheet-Type PVDF Sensors
Authors: Kumaki Daisuke , Motoshima Yuko , Higuchi Fujio , Sato Katsuhiro , Sekine Tomohito , Tokito Shizuo
Published: November 2023

Techniques for noninvasively acquiring the vital information of infants and young children are considered very useful in the fields of healthcare and medical care. An unobstructive measurement method for sleeping infants and young children under the age of 6 years using a sheet-type vital sensor with a polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) pressure-sensitive layer is demonstrated. The signal filter conditions to obtain the ballistocardiogram (BCG) and phonocardiogram (PCG) are discussed from the waveform data of infants and young children. The difference in signal processing conditions was caused by the physique of the infants and young children. The peak-to-peak interval (PPI) extracted from the BCG or PCG during sleep showed an extremely high correlation with the R-to-R interval (RRI) extracted from the electrocardiogram (ECG). The vital changes until awakening in infants monitored using a sheet sensor were also investigated. In infants under one year of age that awakened spontaneously, the distinctive vital changes during awakening were observed. Understanding the changes in the heartbeat and respiration signs of infants and young children during sleep is essential for improving the accuracy of abnormality detection by unobstructive sensors.
This Is Bullshit: The Relationship between Organizational Bullshitting and Employee Job Satisfaction
Authors: Fallatah Mahmoud
Published: November 2023

Bullshitting is a term that has been introduced lately in the literature to describe the practice of communicating with no grounding in truth. This study examines the relationship between organizational bullshit and employee job satisfaction. Using a sample of 261 employees from five organizations in Saudi Arabia, this study finds that employees are more likely to be dissatisfied when their organizations have no regard for the truth in making their decisions, and specifically, when their direct supervisor is bullshitting. This study contributes to the emerging literature on organizational bullshit and offers practical implications as well as suggestions for future research.
Futures Studies for Design Systems and Social Transformation from Time/Space-Based Perspectives
Authors: Barbara Anna , Ma Yuemei
Published: November 2023

Analyses of disciplines encompassing futures studies reveal a prevailing tendency to perceive time as a linear sequence of projections. However, this perspective is not applicable to the current context of social transformation in the age of globalization and digitization, such as sustainable development. Preliminary investigations into time-based design and futures studies have shown the potential of time-based paradigms for predicting reliable future scenarios and redesigning current forms of spaces, relationships, and services in response to these desired futures. In this paper, we describe a project of an Ephemeral and Temporary Space Design Laboratory, which has been a pedagogical experiment for 3 years to date in the School of Design at the Politecnico di Milano. The objective of this project is to systematically design an area of the city by reflecting on the relationship between design systems and social change, using participatory design methods such as field research and interviews with local residents to systematically redesign the urban space of the Lodi/Corvetto area in the city of Milan. This research aims to investigate the systematic influence of time factors on the spatial design of urban communities through futuristic and time/space-based design perspectives. The findings demonstrate that the utilization of time-based paradigms and tools can effectively enhance the time-based design approach, resulting in its increased integration within the design process. This integration plays a pivotal role in the construction of systems that have the capability to interact with and catalyze social transformation within the broader public and shared community.
Measuring the Contributions of Perceptual and Attentional Processes in the Complete Composite Face Paradigm
Authors: Erickson William Blake , Weatherford Dawn R.
Published: November 2023

Theories of holistic face processing vary widely with respect to conceptualizations, paradigms, and stimuli. These divergences have left several theoretical questions unresolved. Namely, the role of attention in face perception is understudied. To rectify this gap in the literature, we combined the complete composite face task (allowing for predictions of multiple theoretical conceptualizations and connecting with a large body of research) with a secondary auditory discrimination task at encoding (to avoid a visual perceptual bottleneck). Participants studied upright, intact faces within a continuous recognition paradigm, which intermixes study and test trials at multiple retention intervals. Within subjects, participants studied faces under full or divided attention. Test faces varied with respect to alignment, congruence, and retention intervals. Overall, we observed the predicted beneficial outcomes of holistic processing (e.g., higher discriminability for Congruent, Aligned faces relative to Congruent, Misaligned faces) that persisted across retention intervals and attention. However, we did not observe the predicted detrimental outcomes of holistic processing (e.g., higher discriminability for Incongruent, Misaligned faces relative to Incongruent, Aligned faces). Because the continuous recognition paradigm exerts particularly strong demands on attention, we interpret these findings through the lens of resource dependency and domain specificity.
Transplantation, Waitlist Status, and County Indices of Economic Health in West Virginia
Authors: Shawwa Khaled , Thompson Jesse , Chaudhary Vishy , Parravani Anthony , Poling Mark , Pellegrino Bethany , Schmidt Rebecca
Published: November 2023

Key Points

Patients with ESKD coming from impoverished counties are less likely to be waitlisted or transplanted.

Insurance status modified the relationship between county poverty rates and waitlisting/transplant.

Background

Kidney transplantation is the optimal treatment for patients with ESKD. Given lower rates of kidney transplant in West Virginia (WV), we searched for potential predictors, focusing on the indices of economic health.

Methods

Data on the initiation of RRT, being waitlisted for, and receiving a kidney transplant between 1965 and 2020 were collected from United States Renal Data System. Data on county poverty rate (PR) and economic distress were collected from the Appalachian Regional Commission.

Results

Of the 23,055 WV patients identified, 2999 (13%) were transplanted compared with 514,050 (15.3%) for the rest of the United States (P < 0.001). Patients who never received a kidney transplant were from counties with higher PRs (17.95%) compared with transplanted patients (17.44%; P < 0.001). Waitlisted patients (2,375) came from counties with lower PRs than those who were never waitlisted (17.48 versus 17.94%; P < 0.001). Waitlisted patients were less likely to be from distressed or at-risk counties (32 versus 34.3%; P = 0.05) than patients who were never waitlisted. In multivariable logistic regression, county PR remained an independent predictor of being transplanted (odds ratio, 0.91; 95% confidence interval, 0.85 to 0.97; P = 0.008) or waitlisted (odds ratio, 0.9; 95% confidence interval, 0.84 to 0.96; P = 0.001) per 5% increase in PR after adjusting for age, sex, body mass index, alcohol use, functional status, and comorbid medical conditions. Group/employer health insurance seemed to modify the relationship between PR and waitlist, where PR remained an independent predictor of waitlisting among patients with insurance.

Conclusions

Waitlisted patients and transplant recipients from WV were more likely to hail from counties with lower PRs and those in better economic health.
Etiopatogenesis, Diagnostics and Treatment of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome in Adolescents
Authors: Можейко Л.Ф.
Published: November 2023

Синдром поликистозных яичников (СПКЯ) – распространенная эндокринная патология, встречающаяся у 5–10% молодых женщин. При этом у 10% нерожавших женщин выявляют овуляторную дисфункцию, повышенное содержание андрогенов, метаболические нарушения, инсулинорезистентность, которые впоследствии способствуют развитию сахарного диабета 2-го типа, ожирения, кардиологической патологии. Среди причин бесплодного брака СПКЯ находится на 5-м месте, составляя 20–22%. Актуальность проблемы СПКЯ заключается не только в высокой степени распространенности этой патологии, но и в ее социальной значимости, что обусловлено частым сочетанием нарушений менструальной функции, метаболических расстройств с проявлениями гиперандрогении (гирсутизм, себорея, акне), ановуляторного бесплодия, которые нередко становятся причиной нарушений психологического статуса и качества жизни. Несмотря на значительные достижения последних десятилетий, единой концепции этиопатогенеза СПКЯ не существует, а вопросы диагностики и лечения этой патологии продолжают оставаться дискутабельными. В подростковом возрасте СПКЯ является диагнозом исключения, поскольку может быть верифицирован после исключения других заболеваний со сходной клинической симптоматикой. В статье представлены основные диагностические критерии синдрома поликистозных яичников у подростков, современные подходы к тактике ведения и лечения таких пациентов.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine pathology that occurs in 5–10% of young women. At the same time, ovulatory dysfunction, increased levels of androgens, metabolic disorders, insulin resistance, which subsequently contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus, obesity, and cardiac pathology, are detected in 10% of nulliparous women. Among the causes of infertile marriage, PCOS is in 5th place, accounting for 20–22%. The relevance of the problem of PCOS lies not only in the high degree of prevalence of this pathology, but also in its social significance, which is due to the frequent combination of menstrual dysfunction, metabolic disorders with manifestations of hyperandrogenism (hirsutism, seborrhea, acne), anovulatory infertility, which often cause psychological status disorders and quality of life. Despite the significant achievements of recent decades, there is no single concept of the etiopathogenesis of PCOS, and the issues of diagnosis and treatment of this pathology continue to be debatable. In adolescence, PCOS is a diagnosis of exclusion, as it can be verified after the exclusion of other diseases with similar clinical symptoms. The article presents the main diagnostic criteria for polycystic ovary syndrome in adolescents, modern approaches to the management and treatment of such patients.
Impact of Social Assistance Programs on Family Economic Welfare in Urban Environments: An Analysis of Equity and Community Engagement
Authors: Marson Ferrant , Eagly Pesando , Russell Omvedt Morini
Published: November 2023

This research investigates the impact of social assistance programs on the economic welfare of families within urban settings. It aims to discern the relationship between the utilization of social assistance programs and economic conditions, explore disparities in impact across socioeconomic strata, delve into the lived experiences of program beneficiaries, and provide recommendations for more equitable and effective policy implementation. A mixed-methods approach is employed, combining quantitative and qualitative methods. Quantitative data is collected through surveys and government records, while qualitative data is gathered via interviews and focus groups. The analysis encompasses statistical techniques and thematic coding. The research reveals a positive correlation between social assistance programs and economic improvements in urban households. It uncovers disparities in impact across income strata, with a more pronounced effect on lower-income families. Qualitative insights validate the experiences of program beneficiaries, emphasizing the programs' importance in providing essential resources and education support. The study's findings have substantial implications for policymakers, program administrators, and urban communities. Policymakers are urged to create more targeted, nuanced, and adaptive programs, administrators should streamline administrative processes and support adequacy, and communities are empowered to engage in program design. This research underscores the potential for a more responsive, equitable, and inclusive social assistance framework
Effectiveness of Therapeutic Community Rehabilitation Program for Drug Abuse in Social Institutions
Authors: Shaver Scuka Rousseau , Forsyth Oyelana , Meritus Dionisius
Published: November 2023

This research conducts an evaluation of the Therapeutic Community (TC) Program implemented for residents grappling with drug abuse within social institutions. The study aims to assess the program's effectiveness, the impact on participants, and its implications for social institutions and the broader field of substance abuse treatment. Through a mixed-methods approach, the research scrutinizes quantitative data to measure changes in substance abuse levels, mental health, and readiness for reintegration, coupled with qualitative insights from participant experiences. The outcomes reveal significant reductions in substance abuse levels, improvements in mental health indicators, and positive behavioral changes among participants. The study highlights the pivotal role of peer support and community integration in residents' recovery journeys. The implications of the findings encompass enhanced recovery pathways for individuals, reinforcing the value of community support, while calling for sustained support mechanisms and comprehensive approaches within social institutions. This evaluation underscores the dynamic nature of substance abuse interventions and underscores the importance of continuous assessment, innovation, and adaptive strategies for improved rehabilitation initiatives.
Big Data processes and tools learning environment for bachelor's degree students in computer engineering
Authors: HERNÁNDEZ-CABRERA Jesús , MENDOZA-GONZÁLEZ Omar , SÁNCHEZ-HERNÁNDEZ Miguel Ángel
Published: November 2023

The set of technologies related to the Big Data environment is broad and continues to grow; undergraduate students interested in venturing into learning this type of technology are, in the first instance, overwhelmed because the learning curve is extensive; The objective of the project is to reduce this curve; For which a massive data processing environment has been designed and generated, accompanied by notes with fundamental concepts of Big Data, workshops and theoretical-practical courses, all supervised by academics from FES ARAGÓN. This document shares the experience gained in one year of its application and the various products that are detailed in the extensive. The methodology to meet the objective consisted of the following phases: Documentary research, content design and development, creation and configuration of the environment for Big Data tools, environmental operation tests, generation of teaching material, teaching of courses and workshops. and publication of the materials in a MOOC. The contribution proposed in this article is to socialize the experience obtained from the teaching support and innovation project, in order for other academic centers to take it up, replicate or improve it.