bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intra-tumoral susceptibility signals in brain gliomas: where do we stand?
Authors: Cataldi Simone , Feraco Paola , Marrale Maurizio , Alongi Pierpaolo , Geraci Laura , La Grutta Ludovico , Caruso Giuseppe , Bartolotta Tommaso Vincenzo , Midiri Massimo , Gagliardo Cesare
Published: February 2025

Nowadays, the genetic and biomolecular profile of neoplasms—related with their biological behaviour—have become a key issue in oncology, as they influence many aspects of both diagnosis and treatment. In the neuro-oncology field, neuroradiological research has recently explored the potential of non-invasively predicting the molecular phenotype of primary brain neoplasms, particularly gliomas, based on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), using both conventional and advanced imaging techniques. Among these, diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI), perfusion-weighted imaging (PWI), MR spectroscopy (MRS) and susceptibility-weighted imaging (SWI) and have been used to explore various aspects of glioma biology, including predicting treatment response and understanding treatment-related changes during follow-up imaging. Recently, intratumoral susceptibility signals (ITSSs)—visible on SWI—have been recognised as an important new imaging tool in the evaluation of brain gliomas, as they offer a fast and simple non-invasive window into their microenvironment. These intratumoral hypointensities reflect critical pathological features such as microhemorrhages, calcifications, necrosis and vascularization. Therefore, ITSSs can provide neuroradiologists with more biological information for glioma differential diagnosis, grading and subtype differentiation, providing significant clinical support in prognosis assessment, therapeutic management and treatment response evaluation. This review summarizes recent advances in ITSS applications in glioma assessment, emphasizing both its potential and limitations while referencing key studies in the field.
Food handling practices among street food vendors and their associated factors in the town administration of Gamo Zone, Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Girma Zeleke , Temesgen Kidus , Dubale Amanuel , Waritu Nuredin Chura , Jemal Mohammed , Wakeyo Mamud Umer
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Food handling practice is a serious issue that can increase the risk of contracting foodborne illnesses unless it is well-practiced by street food vendors. Food sold on the street is currently very popular in Ethiopia and is contaminated with various sources of infections due to the poor handling practices of street food vendors that can cause foodborne illnesses. However, there has been little research on the food handling practices of street food vendors in the Gamo zone. Thus, we aimed to assess food handling practices among street food vendors and their associated factors in the town administration of the Gamo Zone.

Methods

A cross-sectional study design was conducted from October to December 2021. A simple random sampling technique by the lottery method was used to select 421 participants. The data were collected through interviews and observations, entered into EpiData version 7, and transported to STATA version 13 for analysis by logistic regression. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.

Results and discussion

The magnitude of good food handling was 40%. Male gender [AOR = 7.03, 95% CI: 3.36–14.71], ages 19–25 [AOR = 9.34, 95% CI: 3.11–28.07] and 26–35 [AOR = 4.80, 95% CI: 1.54–14.99], married participants [AOR = 6.48, 95% CI: 1.69–24.89], college diploma and above [AOR = 5, 95% CI: 1.46–23], monthly income of 1,001–2,000 ETB [AOR = 3.46, 95% CI: 1.50–7.96], and availability of hand washing facility [AOR = 2.68, 95% CI: 1.24–5.77] were significant predictors of good food handling practices.

Conclusion

Above half of the food vendors had poor food handling practices. Gender, ages, marital and educational status, monthly income, and handwashing facility were factors associated with food handling practice. Therefore, improving the monthly income and educational status of the food handlers, counseling, and periodic inspections may improve their good food handling practices.
A novel adaptive Gaussian sum cubature Kalman filter with time-varying non-Gaussian noise for GNSS/SINS tightly coupled integrated navigation system
Authors: Dai Qing , Wan Ru , Han Shao-Yong , Xiao Guo-Rui
Published: February 2025

The Gaussian sum cubature Kalman filter (GSCKF) based on Gaussian mixture model (GMM) is a critical nonlinear non-Gaussian filter for data fusion of global navigation satellite system/strapdown inertial navigation systems (GNSS/SINS) tightly coupled integrated navigation system. However, the stochastic model of non-Gaussian noise in practical operating environments is not static, but rather time-varying. So if the GMM of GSCKF cannot be adjusted adaptively, it will lead to a decrease in estimation accuracy. To address this issue, we propose a novel adaptive GSCKF (AGSCKF) based on the dynamic adjustment of GMM. By analyzing the impact of GMM displacement parameter on the fitting accuracy of non-Gaussian noise, a novel algorithm for GMM displacement parameter adaptive adjustment is proposed using a cost function. Then this novel algorithm is applied to overcome the limitations of GSCKF under time-varying non-Gaussian noise environment, thereby improving the filtering performance. The simulation and experimental results indicate that the proposed AGSCKF exhibits significant advantage in changeable environments affected by time-varying non-Gaussian noise, which is applied to GNSS/SINS tightly coupled integrated navigation system data fusion can improve estimation accuracy and adaptability without sacrificing significant computational complexity.
Measurements of LSTID and LSTAD using TEC and GOCE data
Authors: Valladares C. E. , Chen Y.-J. , Bukowski A. , Adhya P. , Anderson P. C. , Dey S. , Hairston M.
Published: February 2025

This paper presents measurements gathered with the Gravity Field and Ocean Circulation Explorer (GOCE) satellite, TEC values collected in the American sector, and Poynting Flux (PF) derived using the electric and magnetic fields from the Defense Meteorological Satellite Program (DMSP) satellites aiming to elucidate the mechanisms controlling the initiation of large-scale traveling atmospheric disturbances (LSTAD) and the transit and asymmetry of concurrent large-scale traveling ionospheric disturbances (LSTID). LSTADs and LSTIDs measured during twelve intense magnetic storms that occurred between 2011 and 2013 are thoroughly analyzed. The LSTAD/LSTID appearance and characteristics are correlated against the PF values and the auroral oval’s location, measured by the DMSP satellites. GOCE data and TEC values are used to assess the perturbation of the vertical wind and TEC (∂TEC), inter-hemispheric asymmetry of the appearance of LSTIDs, and the role of the different phases of storms and the structures within interplanetary coronal mass ejections (ICME). Emphasis is devoted to examining LSTADs and LSTIDs during the storms of 5–6 August 2011, 15 July 2012, and 17 March 2013, the supporting material reports on the dynamics of LSTADs and LSTIDs for nine additional storms. During most storms, LSTIDs initiate from both auroral ovals and propagate toward the opposite hemisphere. However, on 5 August 2011 and 15 July 2012, LSTIDs moved only from one hemisphere toward the opposite. Close inspection of the TEC perturbation associated with these events indicates that LSTIDS onsets at opposite hemispheres occur at different times and intensities. This timing delay is produced by the difference in the amount of PF deposited in each hemisphere. It is also indicated that LSTAD’s initiation occurs when the PF is above 1 mW/m2 and when the lower latitude edge of the auroral oval moves equatorward at 65°. In addition, LSTIDs are observed during the passage of ICME sheath (in 6 storms), magnetic clouds (11), and Sunward Loops (1), although they occur when the IMF Bz is predominantly directed southward. The observations suggest that the interhemispheric asymmetries in the LSTIDs initiation, extension, and amplitude occur when the ICME sheath passes, containing rapidly varying IMF Bz sign fluctuations. TEC perturbations associated with the LSTID can be up to 4% of the background TEC value, and the LSTAD neutral density variability measured by GOCE can be up to 8%. LSTIDs are observed during all phases of magnetic storms.
Wheat in Kenya: toward self-sufficiency or toward broader development goals
Authors: Snyder Katherine , Muindi Pauline , Khaemba Colleta , Rutsaert Pieter , Mutegi Judy , Omondi Francis , Donovan Jason
Published: February 2025

The conflict between Russia and Ukraine, and the associated disruptions in global wheat supply has resulted in concern for food security throughout sub-Saharan Africa. In Kenya, which depends heavily on wheat imports to meet demand, this concern has intensified calls for self-sufficiency in wheat production. Wheat shortages have led to price hikes that hit all consumers but the urban poor in particular. To decrease reliance on imports, for both food security and for nutrition, Kenya has implemented policy measures to spur increased wheat production. This paper explores the context for increasing wheat production in Kenya to respond to increasing demand, and for addressing the needs of the stakeholders in the sector. Findings suggest that wheat self-sufficiency is unlikely to be achieved soon. Major public and private investments would be required to build the infrastructure, systems, and institutions required to support smallholders to expand and intensify their production. Millers have relied on cheap wheat imports for decades and show limited signs of willingness to support backward linkages with farmers. Critical public infrastructure (e.g., wheat seed systems, extension systems) is ill-equipped to support the growth of the wheat sector. Researchers and policy makers would better serve the interests of smallholder wheat growers by identifying feasible objectives for sustainable and equitable industry growth. We conclude with recommendations for targeted investment and interventions.
Bilateral parasternal and rectus sheath blocks reduce pain post-cardiac surgery: a pilot trial
Authors: Huang Yangsi , Ouyang Chengdi , He Fang , Zhong Yu , Liu Guofeng , Lu Yizhi , Chen Yanhua
Published: February 2025

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the effects of ultrasound-guided bilateral parasternal block (PSB) combined with rectus sheath block (RSB) on postoperative recovery quality in patients undergoing median sternotomy for cardiac surgery.

Methods

Eighty patients were randomly assigned to either the intervention group (receiving PSB + RSB, n = 40) or the control group (not receiving PSB + RSB, n = 40). The primary outcome was opioid consumption within the first 24 h postoperatively. Secondary outcomes included Visual Analog Scale (VAS) pain scores and various surgery and recovery-related parameters.

Results

The intervention group showed significantly reduced opioid consumption in the first 24 h postoperatively compared to the control group (P < 0.05), though no significant difference was observed at 48 h postoperatively. VAS pain scores at extubation and at 12, 24, and 48 h post-extubation were significantly lower in the intervention group (P < 0.05). The intervention group also demonstrated superior Quality of Recovery-15 (QoR-15) scores at all observed time points compared to the control group (P < 0.05), with no block-related adverse events. There were no significant differences in surgical and recovery-related parameters between the groups.

Conclusion

Ultrasound-guided bilateral PSB combined with RSB effectively enhances postoperative analgesia and the quality of recovery in patients undergoing median sternotomy for cardiac surgery. The application of ultrasound-guided bilateral parasternal block combined with rectus sheath block in median sternotomy cardiac surgery offers a new pain management strategy that is both safe and highly effective. This approach reduces postoperative analgesic requirements and improves recovery quality for cardiac surgery patients.

Clinical Trial Registration

https://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.html?proj=180456, China Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2200064733).
Fluorescence intensity of parathyroid glands in thyroid and parathyroid surgery: a near-infrared autofluorescence study
Authors: Yu Fan , Yi Xiaolei , Lin Zihan , Wu Yinyue , Luo Quanyong , Wu Bo
Published: February 2025

Objective

Near-infrared autofluorescence (NIRAF) imaging shows promise in identifying parathyroid gland (PG) during surgery. However, the clinical application of NIRAF faces challenges due to the heterogeneous fluorescence intensity (FI) of PGs observed in different thyroid and parathyroid diseases. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of NIRAF in PG detection and to analyze the FI of PGs in patients with various thyroid and parathyroid diseases.

Methods

A total of 105 patients undergoing thyroidectomy and parathyroidectomy were enrolled. Intraoperative NIRAF imaging was used to detect PGs, and the FI values were quantified using ImageJ software. Normal PGs were grouped according to the pathological results of ipsilateral thyroid diseases. Compare and analyze the FI values of normal and diseased PGs.

Results

A total of 239 PGs were detected during surgery. 225 PGs were identified by NIRAF. The NIRAF identification rate was significantly higher than visual identification (94.1% vs. 81.2%, p < 0.001). NIRAF demonstrated high performance in PG identification, with sensitivity, specificity, and positive predictive values and negative predictive values to predict PGs were 95.4%, 77.5%, 90.5% and 88.1%, respectively. The FI of PGs was higher in patients with papillary thyroid carcinoma (1.39 ± 0.21), follicular nodules of thyroid (1.45 ± 0.25), nodular thyroid gland (1.36 ± 0.19) than in those with hyperthyroidism (1.06 ± 0.28) and primary hyperparathyroidism (1.17 ± 0.23). Superior PGs in Stage I exhibited higher FI compared to PGs in Stage II (p = 0.025). In Stage II, the FI of inferior PGs was significantly higher than that of superior PGs (p < 0.001). The FI of PGs in both Stage I and II was significantly higher than in Stage III.

Conclusions

NIRAF demonstrates high efficiency in identifying PGs across various surgical stages, outperforming conventional visual identification. The FI of superior and inferior PGs exhibits significant variability across different intraoperative stages. Surgeons should exercise caution when identifying PGs in patients with primary hyperparathyroidism and hyperthyroidism, as these conditions are associated with lower FI compared to other thyroid diseases.
Comparative analysis of anthelmintic treatments: impact on liver biomarkers and clinical recovery in sheep with fasciolosis
Authors: Gedefaw Tameru , Mebratu Atsede Solomon , Dagnachew Shimels , Fenta Melkie Dagnaw
Published: February 2025

Background

Liver fluke infections (fasciolosis) in sheep in Ethiopia result in significant economic losses, recently estimated at around $3,700 (185,232 ETH Birr) per year. Despite the widely use of Triclabendazole (TCBZ), Tetraclozan (TETRA), and Albendazole (ALBE) for treating fasciolosis, their effectiveness remains a significant concern. This study aimed to compare the efficacy of TCBZ, TETRA, and ALBE in treating ovine fasciolosis, with a focus on their effects on both the parasitic infection and associated biochemical parameters. Given the substantial economic burden of liver fluke in Ethiopia, identifying the most effective treatment options is essential to reducing both the health impact on livestock and the economic losses to farmers.

Methods

A field trial was conducted from May to November 2023 on 45 naturally infected sheep, divided into three groups: Group I received TCBZ, Group II TETRA, and Group III ALBE, with TCBZ as the positive control. Fecal and serum samples were collected on days 0, 7, 14, and 21 post-treatment. A fecal egg count reduction test (FECRT) and biochemical analysis were performed.

Results

In our study, TCBZ was the most effective anthelmintic (97.8%), followed by TETRA (96.6%), and ALBE (84%). Biochemical parameters, particularly liver enzymes (AST, ALT, ALP, GGT) and protein levels, showed significant improvement across all groups over 21 days (p < 0.05), with enzyme levels normalizing by day 21 and protein levels by days 14-21. Albendazole significantly (p < 0.05) outperformed Tetraclozan and Triclabendazole in both biochemical parameters and eggs per gram count (EPG), with no significant difference between Tetraclozan and Triclabendazole (p > 0.05). Albendazole proved most effective for liver recovery and normalization of biochemical markers over the treatment period (p = 0.00). Among 15 Fasciola-infected animals, baseline signs included diarrhea (53%), pale mucous membranes (100%), bottle jaw (60%), and depression (80%). Post-Tetraclozan treatment, all symptoms reduced significantly over 21 days (p < 0.05). In the Albendazole group, symptoms decreased progressively, with diarrhoea, pale mucous membranes, bottle jaw, and depression notably reduced by days 7, 14, and 21.

Conclusion

TCBZ and TETRA were highly effective against ovine fasciolosis, with TETRA recommended if TCBZ is unavailable. Biochemical parameters are key biomarkers for liver damage and selecting effective anthelmintic drugs.
Automata and Arithmetics in Canonical Number Systems
Authors: Herendi Tamás , Padányi Viktória
Published: February 2025

In this paper, we discuss canonical number systems (CNSs), which are generalizations of positional number systems to polynomials over the integers. We defined the information quantity of a polynomial A∈Z[x] relative to the base of the CNS and proved that it has a strong relation with the length of the representation in the number system. Based on this result, we showed that for every CNS polynomial P, there exists a finite transducer automaton executing the addition operation of polynomials in canonical representation of base P. Finally, we observed the size—i.e., the number of states—of such automata.
Robust Adaptive Cascade Trajectory Tracking Control for an Aircraft Towing and Taxiing System
Authors: Huang Weining , Xu Pengjie , Zhao Tianrui , Zhang Wei , Zhao Yanzheng
Published: February 2025

With the rapid growth of the civil aviation industry, the aircraft towing and taxiing (ATT) system has gained significant attention in the literature. Due to its nonlinear and underactuated characteristics, the path tracking and control of the ATT system is a challenging issue. Therefore, in this paper, a robust adaptive cascade control structure is proposed for the path tracking of the ATT system. Firstly, the system description is established via kinematic and dynamics modeling, and the lumped system disturbance is derived for the controller design. Next, the robust adaptive cascade control structure consisting of the adaptive MPC and the CSMC or the RASMC-based dynamics controller is designed with the application of the extended Kalman filter. The system stability in the dynamics loop is verified through the Lyapunov method. The simulation results reveal that the combination of the adaptive MPC and the RASMC can provide a more accurate tracking performance and smoother trajectories under the given disturbances and uncertainties, while both ensuring passenger comfort and meeting the civil aviation regulations, indicating its potential in practical applications.
Quantifying the Effects of Climate Change on Aircraft Take-Off Performance at European Airports
Authors: Williams Jonny , Williams Paul D. , Guerrini Federica , Venturini Marco
Published: February 2025

This work uses state-of-the-art climate model data at 30 European airport locations to examine how climate change may affect summer take-off distance required—TODR—and maximum take-off mass—MTOM—for a 30-year period centred on 2050 compared to a historical baseline (1985–2014). The data presented here are for the Airbus A320; however, the methodology is generic and few changes are required in order to apply this methodology to a wide range of different fixed-wing aircraft. The climate models used are taken from the 6th Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMPI6) and span a range of climate sensitivity values; that is, the amount of warming they exhibit for a given increase in atmospheric greenhouse gas concentrations. Using a Newtonian force-balance model, we show that 30-year average values of TODR may increase by around 50–100 m, albeit with significant day-to-day variability. The changing probability distributions are quantified using kernel density estimation and an illustration is provided showing how changes to future daily maximum temperature extremes may affect the distributions of TODR going forward. Furthermore, it is projected that the 99th percentile of the historical distributions of TODR may by exceeded up to half the time in the summer months for some airports. Some of the sites studied have runways that are shorter than the distance required for a fully laden take-off, which means they must reduce their payloads as temperatures and air pressures change. We find that, relative to historical mean values, take-off payloads may need to be reduced by the equivalent of approximately 10 passengers per flight, as these significant increases (as high as approximately 60%) show a probability of exceeding historical extreme values.
Classification of Tomato Harvest Timing Using an AI Camera and Analysis Based on Experimental Results
Authors: Okabe Yasuhiro , Hiraguri Takefumi , Endo Keita , Kimura Tomotaka , Hayashi Daisuke
Published: February 2025

Smart agriculture has the potential to solve labor shortages and improve production efficiency and prices at the time of shipment. Predicting tomato yields during the cultivation period is crucial for planning shipment volumes and costs in advance. We propose technology that utilizes an AI camera to enable producers to predict yields more accurately, and we verify the effectiveness of the developed system through experimental validation. Specifically, an AI-recognition camera was developed, utilizing You Only Look Once (YOLO) to detect individual tomatoes. The detected tomatoes are analyzed for size using point cloud data. Moreover, the AI-recognition camera performs to classify ripeness based on hue. This technology can achieve accurate ripeness classification without being dependent on the brightness of the greenhouse. To evaluate this AI classification camera, the predicted yield obtained from the camera was compared with the actual harvested yield in the field. The analysis showed an error rate of 6.85%, demonstrating sufficient accuracy for practical implementation. By introducing this system, efficient yield prediction can be achieved, leading to reduced labor costs, stable tomato supply, improved quality, and optimized market distribution. As a result, it is expected to contribute to the benefits of both shippers and consumers.
Pseudopus apodus Soft Tissue Anatomy Based on Comparison of Classical Dissection and Multi-Detector Computed Tomography
Authors: García-Real María Isabel , Fernández-Valle Encarnación , Jiménez Sara , Ruiz-Fernández María José , Castejón-Ferrer David , Montesinos-Barceló Andrés , Ardiaca-García María , Moreno Nerea , González-Soriano Juncal
Published: February 2025

Anatomy is critical for understanding the physiological and biological adaptations of living creatures. In the case of Pseudopus apodus, an anguimorph lizard belonging to the Order Squamata, it is particularly important considering the scarce previous works on the morphology of its coelomic cavity. It is interesting to consider that, over the years, using non-invasive approaches in reptiles, such as diagnostic imaging methods, is becoming popular for both scientific and clinical purposes. For the present work, we used a total of five Pseudopus apodus individuals (two males and three females); one male and one female were whole-body examined by multi-detector computed tomography (CT) and then all were dissected following a conventional anatomical protocol. The novelty and the main contribution of our multi-detector CT study is to identify structures that had never been identified before using this technique, such as the opening of the vomeronasal organ and the choanae, the tongue, the glottis, the hyoid bone, the esophagus, the stomach, the small and large intestines, the cloaca, the liver, the gallbladder, the kidneys, the ovarian follicles, the trachea, the bronchial bifurcation, the lungs, the heart, the aortic arches, the aorta, the sinus venosus, and the cranial cava veins. On the contrary, other organs like the thyroid, the pancreas, the spleen, the ureters, the urinary bladder, the oviducts, the testes, the hemipenes, the pulmonary trunk, and the pulmonary arteries were only identified in the anatomical dissection. Thus, our results demonstrate that multi-detector CT scanning is a useful tool to identify a significant number of anatomical structures in Pseudopus apodus, which is important for clinical veterinary practice related to this species or different conservation programs, among other applications.
Analysis of Risk Factors of Feather Pecking Injurious Behavior in Experimentally Raised Yangzhou Goslings in China
Authors: Wang Mingfeng , Wang Guoyao , Gu Wang , Cao Zhengfeng , Zhang Yu , Zhang Yang , Xu Qi , Chen Guohong , Chen Yang
Published: February 2025

Feather pecking can influence the welfare and health concerns of all farmed poultry and affect production and economic aspects. Although some information is available about feather pecking behavior in chickens and ducks, the risk factors of feather pecking in goslings have not been fully demonstrated. In this study, 3-day-old Yangzhou goslings were chosen, and risk factors of feather pecking injurious behavior were investigated, including stocking density, rearing method, flock uniformity, and environmental enrichment. The gosling performed three different pecking behaviors in starter barns from 3d of age to 10d, including gentle feather pecking (GFP), severe feather pecking (SFP), and aggressive pecking (AGP), and the corresponding proportions were 82.16%, 17.02%, and 0.82%, respectively, with peak aggressive feather pecking at 4–5 days of age. The pecked gosling also led to further pecking by conspecifics. Goslings preferred to peck the back (77.32%) and head (11.14%), which caused skin damage to the epidermal and dermal layers, accompanied by a decrease in feather follicle number and diameter. In addition, the effect of the stocking density and population uniformity on the occurrence of feather pecking was determined. The higher feather pecking frequencies and poorer feather quality of goslings were observed under high-density conditions than those of lower-density environments. Importantly, the lower population uniformity resulted in more aggressive pecking, potentially linked to the establishment of a social hierarchy. Finally, environment-related changes in pecking behavior were investigated. The results showed that damp and dirty housing conditions deteriorated plumage conditions and the occurrence of feather pecking, and environment enrichment (the grass section) could significantly reduce the incidence of pecking. Taken together, lower stocking density, higher population uniformity, and the provision of enrichment can reduce the prevalence of feather pecking. Meanwhile, feather pecking in goslings, with the back being the most commonly targeted area, can lead to the loss of back feathers and even skin damage. These results help to develop effective management and prevention strategies to reduce the negative effects of pecking behavior on goose health and performance.
A Biosocial Perspective to Understand Antimicrobial Prescription Practices: A Retrospective Cross-Sectional Study from a Public Community Health Center in North India
Authors: Surial Rashmi , Sahay Sundeep , Modgil Vinay , Mukherjee Arunima , Bhandari Ritika Kondal
Published: February 2025

Background: It is well established by research that large-scale and indiscriminate prescribing, dispensing, and use of antimicrobials drive antimicrobial resistance (AMR) endangering the health and well-being of people, animals, and the environment. In the context of low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), the prescribing of antimicrobials is often not based on biomedical rationality but involves alternative logic driven by social, cultural, and institutional factors. This paper seeks to develop a “biosocial” perspective, reflecting a unified perspective that treats the biomedical and social conditions as two sides of the same coin. Methods: This analysis is based on an empirical investigation of prescription slips that patients carry to buy drugs from the pharmacy following an outpatient department encounter with the clinician. Data collection involves mixed methods, including the quantitative analysis of the antimicrobials prescribed and a qualitative analysis of the underlying reasons for these prescriptions, as described by doctors, pharmacists, and patients. Data analysis involved triangulating quantitative and qualitative data, to develop a “biosocial” perspective, which can provide implications for the development of antimicrobial stewardship policies, particularly relevant for health institutions in low- and middle-income countries. Results: Our analysis of 1175 prescription slips showed that 98% contained antimicrobials, with 74% being broad-spectrum antimicrobials. Only 9% of cases were advised antimicrobial sensitivity testing (AST) before initiating treatment. Qualitative findings indicated that patients had poor awareness of antimicrobials and pharmacists played a crucial role in counseling. Conclusions: This study highlights that antimicrobial prescriptions in public health settings are influenced by both biomedical and social factors, supporting a biosocial perspective. Although AMS interventions are predominantly biomedical, adhering to clinical standards and best practices, this study underscores the necessity of integrating a biosocial viewpoint by incorporating the experiences of pharmacists and patient groups. Strengthening diagnostic support, patient education, and interprofessional collaboration could improve rational antimicrobial uses in low-resource settings.
Automated Anomaly Detection and Causal Analysis for Civil Aviation Using QAR Data
Authors: Dang Xin , Hua Congcong , Rong Chuitian
Published: February 2025

Flight Operations Quality Assurance (FOQA) is an internationally recognized solution to ensure the safety of civil aircraft flights based on Quick Access Recorder (QAR) data. The traditional approach to anomaly detection in civil aviation is to detect the over-limit values of monitoring parameters for each monitoring event based on the standards issued by civil aviation authorities. Usually, for each anomaly detection operation routine, this only works for one monitoring event. Furthermore, the causal analyses for the detected anomaly events are based on the relevant worker’s expertise. In order to improve the efficiency of FOQA, this paper proposes an automated anomaly detection and causal analysis method called MAD-XFP. Due to the unique industry characteristics of QAR data and the requirements of FOQA, feature engineering and hyper-parameter optimization techniques are utilized to enhance the machine learning model. The proposed method can monitor multiple events in one routine and provide a causal analysis. In the causal analysis process, the Shapley additive interpretation method is applied to produce analysis report for detected anomalies. Experimental evaluations are conducted on real civil aviation datasets. The experimental results show that the proposed method can efficiently and automatically detect different abnormal events with high precision in the approach phase and produce preliminary causal analysis.
Postural Abnormalities on the Sagittal Plane in Parkinson’s Disease and Therapeutic Role of the K1 Posture Keeper Shirt Evaluated by 3D Motion Analysis
Authors: De Blasiis Paolo , Fullin Allegra , De Girolamo Ciro Ivan , Bianchini Edoardo , Miele Giuseppina , Setola Nunzio , Melone Mariarosa Anna Beatrice
Published: February 2025

Postural abnormalities in the sagittal plane are common in Parkinson’s disease (PD) and increase the risk of falls. Previous studies have reported short-term benefit of corrective corsets in PD patients assessed by clinical and instrumental methods, while long-term effects on sagittal posture in upright standing and during walking remain unexplored. Fifteen PD patients with postural abnormalities on the sagittal plane, evaluated via the NeuroPostureApp, and ten healthy subjects matched for age and BMI were assessed by 3D motion analysis in upright posture. Then, the PD patients were evaluated with and without the K1 Posture Keeper during standing and walking at baseline (T0) and after three months of use (T1). The results showed an anteriorization of the head–cervical region with respect to the trunk and a whole-body misalignment in PD patients compared to healthy controls. The use of the K1 Posture Keeper induced a back shift of the nasion with a better alignment of the head with respect to the trunk, pelvis, and feet in upright standing and during walking, underlining an improvement in the sagittal alignment of the entire body in PD. These findings showed the therapeutical role of K1 Posture Keeper on sagittal posture in static and dynamic conditions, potentially due to proprioceptive reorganization.
Pull-Out Properties of Nano-Processed Para-Aramid Fabric Materials in Soft Ballistic: An Experimental Analysis
Authors: Bilisik Nedim Erman , Erdogan Gulhan , Bilisik Kadir
Published: February 2025

Single and multiple pull-out properties of a nano-processed para-aramid fabric structure were investigated. The nano pull-out behavior exhibited three distinct regions, namely crimp extension, interlacement rupture, and stick-slip. Multiple yarn pull-out tests demonstrated a significantly higher pull-out force compared to single-yarn pull-out, primarily attributed to the incorporation of nanoparticles. Furthermore, it was observed that an increase in fabric length resulted in an approximately linear increase in both yarn crimp extension and pull-out force. The highest pull-out force was obtained in the nano-hexagonal boron carbide (nh-B4C, 0.3%) para-aramid structure, followed by multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWCNT, 0.3%) para-aramids. This is because of the enhancement of filament-to-filament friction, especially in the interlacement zone of fabric, alongside the cumulative frictional interactions among the nanoparticles. Additionally, the findings highlight an improvement in crimp extension energy absorption facilitated by nanoparticle incorporation in soft fabric. Notably, the improvement in the energy absorption capacity of yarns within the fabric, without disintegration, is considered significant at this stage. These results indicate a promising potential for performance enhancement in prospective soft ballistic applications.
Content Analysis of E-Participation Platforms in Taiwan with Topic Modeling: How to Train and Evaluate Neural Topic Models?
Authors: Sontheimer Moritz , Fahlbusch Jonas , Chou Shuo-Yan , Kuo Yu-Lin
Published: February 2025

E-participation platforms, such as iVoting and Join in Taiwan, provide digital spaces for citizens to engage in deliberation, voting, and oversight. As a forerunner in Asia, Taiwan has implemented these platforms to enhance participatory democracy. However, there is still limited research on the specific content debated on these platforms. Utilising recent advancements in Natural Language Processing, the content of proposals that users have submitted between 2015 and 2025 is explored. In this study, a pipeline for mining text corpora scraped from these platforms in the context of political analysis is proposed. The pipeline is applied to two datasets which have different characteristics. A topic model for each of the two platforms is generated and later evaluated with OCTIS (Optimizing and Comparing Topic Models Is Simple) and compared to different baselines. Our research highlights the trade-offs between model performance and processing time, emphasizing the balance between accuracy and meaningful topic creation. By integrating a translation pipeline from Chinese to English within the text-mining process, our method also demonstrates a solid approach to overcome language barriers. Consequently, our method is adaptable to e-participation platforms in various languages, providing decision-makers with a more comprehensive tool to understand citizens’ needs and enabling the formulation of more informed and effective policies.
Numerical Simulation for Impeller Structure Optimization for Vortex Pump Based on Orthogonal Design Method
Authors: Yang Jiahao , Li Xiangyang , Cheng Donghong , Ji Jiangtao , Zhao Mengwen , Guo Wen , He Lile
Published: February 2025

The double-bearing vortex pump is a new type of high-efficiency vortex pump. Compared with the traditional vortex pump, its volume and mass are significantly reduced, and its reliability is greatly improved. As the core component of the pump, the impeller has a decisive impact on the overall performance of the pump. Therefore, in order to deeply understand the internal flow mechanism of the vortex pump and improve its hydraulic performance. The mesh model of the double-bearing vortex pump is established by using UG 12.0 and ANSYS Fluent 2022 R1 software, and the influence of different rotational speeds on the flow field characteristics, such as fluid velocity and pressure in the internal vortex pump, is analyzed. The accuracy of the numerical simulation results is verified through experiments. On this basis, the impeller structure of the vortex pump is optimized by introducing the orthogonal design method and taking the impeller diameter, blade groove radius, blade number, and impeller width as optimization parameters. The results indicate that the number of blades is the most critical factor affecting the performance of vortex pumps, and the optimized impeller design increases the head and efficiency of the vortex pump by 18.9% and 11.6%, respectively. This provides important reference for improving the structural design of vortex pump impellers and enhancing their hydraulic performance.
Logitwise Distillation Network: Improving Knowledge Distillation via Introducing Sample Confidence
Authors: Shen Teng , Cui Zhenchao , Qi Jing
Published: February 2025

While existing knowledge distillation (KD) methods typically force students to mimic teacher features without considering prediction reliability, this practice risks propagating the teacher’s erroneous supervision to the student. To address this, we propose the Logitwise Distillation Network (LDN), a novel framework that dynamically quantifies sample-wise confidence through the ranking of ground truth labels in teacher logits. Specifically, LDN introduces three key innovations: (1) weighted class means that prioritize high-confidence samples, (2) adaptive feature selection based on logit ranking, and (3) positive–negative sample adjustment (PNSA) to reverse error-prone supervision. These components are unified into a feature direction (FD) loss, which guides students to selectively emulate trustworthy teacher features. Experiments on CIFAR-100 and ImageNet demonstrate that LDN achieves state-of-the-art performance, improving accuracy by 0.3–0.5% over SOTA methods. Notably, LDN exhibits stronger compatibility with homogeneous networks (2.4% gain over baselines) and requires no additional training costs when integrated into existing KD pipelines. This work advances feature distillation by addressing error propagation, offering a plug-and-play solution for reliable knowledge transfer.
Forecasting Ultrafine Dust Concentrations in Seoul: A Machine Learning Approach
Authors: Park Sophia , Kim Myeong Jun
Published: February 2025

This study applied various machine learning techniques, including shrinkage methods, XGBoost, CSR, and random forest, to forecast ultrafine particulate matter (PM2.5) concentrations in Seoul, South Korea. The analysis incorporated key variables known to significantly influence PM2.5 levels, including meteorological data, coal-fired power generation, and PM2.5 concentrations in Dalian, China. Using daily data from 1 January 2018 to 30 June 2023, this study employed the Boruta algorithm, a variable selection technique based on the random forest model, to identify the most influential predictors for predicting PM2.5 concentrations. Out-of-sample multi-period forecasts were evaluated for each model using the RMSE, MAE, and Giacomini–White test to determine the most effective forecasting approach. It was found that the random forest model with the Boruta algorithm outperformed all other models, achieving improvements of 4% to 17% in the RMSE and 4% to 16.5% in the MAE across all forecast horizons. The results indicate that the random forest model and its variant incorporating the Boruta algorithm provided superior short-term forecasting performance. In particular, the Boruta algorithm highlighted the lagged variables of temperature, PM2.5 concentration, mean humidity, and Dalian PM2.5 concentration as critical factors for the accurate prediction of PM2.5 levels in Seoul. These findings underscore the utility of data-driven approaches to improve air quality forecasting and management.
Enhancing Nut-Tightening Processes in the Automotive Industry: Integration of 3D Vision Systems with Collaborative Robots
Authors: Gonçalves André , Pereira Tiago , Lopes David , Cunha Francisco , Lopes Fernando , Coutinho Fernanda , Barreiros Jorge , Durães João , Santos Patrícia , Simões Fernando , Ferreira Pedro , Freitas Elisabete D. C. , Trovão João Pedro F. , Santos Victor , Ferreira João P. , Ferreira Nuno M. Fonseca
Published: February 2025

This paper presents a method for position correction in collaborative robots, applied to a case study in an industrial environment. The case study is aligned with the GreenAuto project and aims to optimize industrial processes through the integration of various hardware elements. The case study focuses on tightening a specific number of nuts onto bolts located on a partition plate, referred to as “Cloison”, which is mounted on commercial vans produced by Stellantis, to secure the plate. The main challenge lies in deviations that may occur in the plate during its assembly process, leading to uncertainties in its fastening to the vehicles. To address this and optimize the process, a collaborative robot was integrated with a 3D vision system and a screwdriving system. By using the 3D vision system, it is possible to determine the bolts’ positions and adjust them within the robot’s frame of reference, enabling the screwdriving system to tighten the nuts accurately. Thus, the proposed method aims to integrate these different systems to tighten the nuts effectively, regardless of the deviations that may arise in the plate during assembly.
Biomechanical Changes in Kyphotic Cervical Spine After Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion with Different Degrees of Correction
Authors: Chen Hongyu , Ma Xu , Pan Shengfa , Zhang Li , Zhao Yanbin , Chen Xin , Sun Yu , Zhou Feifei
Published: February 2025

Cervical kyphosis is a debilitating disease, and its surgical treatment involves correction to restore sagittal alignment. Few studies have explored the appropriate degree of correction, and the biomechanical impact of correction on the cervical spine is still unclear. This study aimed to compare the biomechanical changes in the cervical spine after different degrees of correction by two-level anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF). Three-dimensional finite element (FE) models of the intact cervical spine (C2–C7) with normal physiological lordosis and kyphosis were constructed. Based on the kyphotic model, three two-level ACDF in C4–6 surgical models were developed: (1) non-correction: only the intervertebral heights were restored; (2) partial correction: the cervical curvature was adjusted to straighten; (3) complete correction: the cervical curvature was adjusted to physiological lordosis. A pure moment of 1.0 Nm combined with a follower load of 73.6 N was applied to the C2 vertebra to simulate flexion, extension, lateral bending, and axial rotation. The stress of vertical bodies and facet joints, intradiscal pressure (IDP), and the overall ROMs of all models were computed. The peak von Mises stress on the upper (C4) and lower (C6) instrumented vertebral bodies in the kyphotic model was greater than that of the physiological lordosis model, with the exception of C6 under lateral bending. The maximum stress was observed in C4 during lateral bending after complete correction, which increased by 145% compared to preoperative von Mises stress. For the middle (C5) instrumented vertebral body, the peak von Mises stress increased after surgery. The maximum stress was observed in partial correction during flexion. Compared to physiological lordosis, the peak von Mises stress on the facet joints in kyphotic segments was lower; however, it was higher in the adjacent segments, except C4/5 in extension. The stress on the facet joints in kyphotic segments decreased, with the most significant decrease observed in partial correction. The IDPs in adjacent segments, except for C6/7 in flexion, showed no significant difference before and after surgery. Additionally, correction seemed to have little impact on IDPs in adjacent segments. In conclusion, for the treatment of cervical kyphosis with two-level ACDF, complete correction resulted in the highest peak von Mises stress on the upper instrumented vertebral body. Partial correction mitigated von Mises stress within the facet joints in kyphotic segments, albeit at the expense of high von Mises stress on the middle instrumented vertebral body.
Innovative Approaches in Dental Care: Electrical Impedance Analysis (EIA) for Early Caries Detection
Authors: Sachelarie Liliana , Romanul Ioana , Domocos Daniela , Moisa Mihaela , Cuc Emilia-Albinita , Iurcov Raluca , Stadoleanu Carmen , Hurjui Loredana Liliana
Published: February 2025

(1) Background: Microcracks and structural fragility in teeth, often undetected by traditional methods until severe complications like fractures or pulp exposure occur, are evaluated in this study using electrical impedance analysis (EIA) as a non-invasive tool for early detection and assessment. (2) Methods: A total of 57 patients were recruited, including individuals with bruxism (n = 20), dental restorations (n = 18), and no significant dental history (control group, n = 19). Electrical impedance measurements were performed on all teeth using a portable device, with data collected from occlusal and proximal surfaces. Patients with abnormal values underwent additional imaging (standard radiographs) to confirm the presence of microcracks. Statistical analyses included ANOVA to compare impedance values between groups and logistic regression to assess the predictors of structural fragility. (3) Results: Teeth with microcracks confirmed by standard radiographs exhibited significantly lower impedance values (mean 50 kΩ) compared to healthy teeth (mean 120 kΩ, p < 0.01). Patients with bruxism showed the highest proportion of teeth with abnormal impedance (45%). Logistic regression identified bruxism as a significant predictor of reduced impedance values (p < 0.05). (4) Conclusions: Electrical impedance analysis demonstrates promise as a non-invasive method for detecting microcracks and assessing structural fragility in teeth. Its application in routine dental check-ups could enable early interventions, particularly for high-risk patients with bruxism or restorations.