bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Contrasting Effects of an Atherogenic Diet and High-Protein/Unsaturated Fatty Acids Diet on the Accelerated Aging Mouse Model SAMP8 Phenotype
Authors: Llanquinao Jesús , Jara Claudia , Cortés-Díaz Daniela , Kerr Bredford , Tapia-Rojas Cheril
Published: September 2024

Background/Objectives: Aging has been extensively studied, with a growing interest in memory impairment by a neurobiological approach. Mitochondrial dysfunction is a hallmark of aging, contributing to the aging phenotype; therefore, mitochondrial interventions seem fundamental. The diet is a physiological approximation for modifying mitochondria, which could impact the age-related phenotype. Methods: We studied two diets with low-carbohydrate and high-fat compositions, differing in the amount of protein and the fat type disposable—the atherogenic diet Cocoa (high protein/high saturated fat/high cholesterol) and the South Beach diet (very high-protein/high-unsaturated fat)—on oxidative stress, mitochondrial state, and hippocampus-dependent memory in 3-month-old Senescence-Accelerated Mouse Model (SAMP8) seed over 3 months to determine their pro- or anti-aging effects. Results: Despite its bad reputation, the Cocoa diet reduces the reactive oxygen species (ROS) content without impacting the energy state and hippocampus-dependent spatial acuity. In contrast to the beneficial impact proposed for the South Beach diet, it induced a pro-aging phenotype, increasing oxidative damage and the levels of NR2B subunit of the NMDA, impairing energy and spatial acuity. Surprisingly, despite the negative changes observed with both diets, this led to subtle memory impairment, suggesting the activation of compensatory mechanisms preventing more severe cognitive decline. Conclusions: Our results demonstrated that diets usually considered good could be detrimental to the onset of aging. Also, probably due to the brain plasticity of non-aged animals, they compensate for the damage, preventing a more aggravated phenotype. Nevertheless, these silent changes could predispose or increase the risk of suffering pathologies at advanced age.
Validity and Reliability of the Japanese Version of the Frontal Assessment Battery in Patients with Stroke
Authors: Sakai Katsuya , Hosoi Yuichiro , Harada Yusuke , Morikawa Kenji , Kato Yuichi
Published: September 2024

Background: The Frontal Assessment Battery (FAB), which is used to assess executive function, has been translated into several languages and shown to be valid and reliable. However, the validity and reliability of the Japanese version in patients with stroke are unknown. This study aimed to investigate the validity and reliability of the Japanese version of the FAB in patients with stroke. Methods: The Japanese version of the FAB for dementia was modified and evaluated in 52 patients with stroke. FAB measurements were obtained twice over a 10-day period. Convergent validity was assessed using the Stroop Color Word Test (SCWT) and the Trail Making Test (TMT) part B. Internal consistency was measured using Cronbach’s alpha (Cα). Test-retest evaluations were performed using intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC (2.1)] measurements, and limits of agreement (LOA) were calculated using the total FAB score. Results: The mean total FAB score was 13.4 ± 2.8 points, the ICC (2.1) was 0.856, and Cα was 0.92. The total FAB score was correlated with SCWT scores for parts I through IV (r = 0.70 to 0.77) and the TMT score for part B (ρ = −0.53). The LOA were −1.7 to 2.9 points. Conclusions: The Japanese version of the FAB had higher validity and reliability in patients with stroke.
Nasal Septal Deviation Classifications Associated with Revision Septoplasty
Authors: Bayer Karina , Brady-Praun Johannes , Besser Gerold , Brkic Faris F. , Haas Markus , Mueller Christian A. , Liu David T.
Published: September 2024

Background: This study aimed to identify clinical characteristics and classifications of nasal septal deviations associated with revision septoplasty. Methods: The cross-sectional study design included 652 patients undergoing septoplasty at a tertiary referral center. We classified patients according to Baumann’s validated septal deviation classification and assessed similarities and differences regarding septal pathologies and types of nasal septal deviations in both groups. Results: The sample comprised 600 primary surgery cases and 52 revision cases. In primary surgeries, type 1 septal deviations were most common (60.3%), followed by type 5 (10.5%) and type 3 (10.0%). In revision surgeries, type 1 deviations (36.5%) were most common, followed by type 3 (25.0%) and type 2 (17.3%). Group comparisons revealed that type 2 and type 3 septal deviations, high septal deviations, and septal perforations were significantly more frequent in revision cases. Common septal pathologies included an oblique septum (98.0%), ipsilateral septal crest (76.4%), contralateral turbinal hyperplasia (42.5%), and vomeral spur (39.9%). Conclusions: This study suggests that using validated classification systems for septal deviations, which combine various pathologies, can provide a more clinically relevant assessment and improve patient counseling and treatment.
Study on the Performance of Laser Device for Attacking Miniature UAVs
Authors: Wu Jianmin , Huang Shijuan , Wang Xiquan , Kou Yunli , Yang Wen
Published: September 2024

In order to test the performance of laser devices for attacking miniature UAVs, we studied the principle of laser devices on soft killing and hard killing. Then, the flight test conditions of miniature UAVs were constructed, and the laser devices were tested and evaluated with the two indexes of maximum jamming range and maximum intercepting range. The first step involves calculating the far-field beam power density corresponding to the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) detection equipment and laser device at different distances. Subsequently, the signal electron count received by the UAV detector from the incident laser source target within the integration time tint is computed and compared against the full well charge of the photodetector. This comparison analyzes the UAV detector’s potential for dazzle/blind effects. When the laser device is positioned 600 m from the UAV, the ratio of signal electrons received by the detector to the full well charge was 13.53, indicating that the detector receives signal electrons exceeding the full well charge by over 10 times, thus causing UAV detector blindness. At a distance of 1.2 km from the UAV, this ratio reduces to 2.92, where the detector receives signal electrons around three times the full well charge, causing UAV detector dazzle. Experimental testing determines that the maximum interception distance of this laser device for small, slow-moving UAV equipment is 500 m. Finally, it is proved that the method can effectively test the attacking performance of laser devices, and provides a basis for improving the function and performance of laser devices.
New Pyrazole/Pyrimidine-Based Scaffolds as Inhibitors of Heat Shock Protein 90 Endowed with Apoptotic Anti-Breast Cancer Activity
Authors: Al-Wahaibi Lamya H. , Elbastawesy Mohammed A. I. , Abodya Nader E. , Youssif Bahaa G. M. , Bräse Stefan , Shabaan Sara N. , Sayed Galal H. , Anwer Kurls E.
Published: September 2024

Background/Objectives: Supported by a comparative study between conventional, grinding, and microwave techniques, a mild and versatile method based on the [1 + 3] cycloaddition of 2-((3-nitrophenyl)diazenyl)malononitrile to tether pyrazole and pyrimidine derivatives in good yields was used. Methods: The newly synthesized compounds were analyzed with IR, 13C NMR, 1H NMR, mass, and elemental analysis methods. The products show interesting precursors for their antiproliferative anti-breast cancer activity. Results: Pyrimidine-containing scaffold compounds 9 and 10 were the most active, achieving IC50 = 26.07 and 4.72 µM against the breast cancer MCF-7 cell line, and 10.64 and 7.64 µM against breast cancer MDA-MB231-tested cell lines, respectively. Also, compounds 9 and 10 showed a remarkable inhibitory activity against the Hsp90 protein with IC50 values of 2.44 and 7.30 µM, respectively, in comparison to the reference novobiocin (IC50 = 1.14 µM). Moreover, there were possible apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in the G1 phase for both tested compounds (supported by CD1, caspase-3,8, BAX, and Bcl-2 studies). Also, the binding interactions of compound 9 were confirmed through molecular docking, and simulation studies displayed a complete overlay into the Hsp90 protein pocket. Conclusions: Compounds 9 and 10 may have apoptotic antiproliferative action as Hsp90 inhibitors.
Time/Frequency Feature-Driven Ensemble Learning for Fault Detection
Authors: Miao Yunchu , Li Zhen , Chen Maoyin
Published: September 2024

This study addresses the problem of fault detection in industrial processes by developing a time/frequency feature-driven ensemble learning method. In contrast to the current works based on time domain ensemble learning, this approach adequately integrates the critical frequency domain information. The frequency domain information can be used to effectively enhance the fault detection performance in ensemble learning. Here, the feature ensemble net (FENet) is chosen to capture the time domain feature. The power spectral density (PSD)-based frequency domain feature extraction network can capture the frequency domain features. Bayesian inference can then be used to combine the fault detection results that rely on time/frequency domain features. The simulations of the Tennessee Eastman Process (TEP) demonstrate that the proposed method significantly outperforms traditional methods. The average fault detection rate (FDR) of TEP faults 3, 5, 9, 15, 16, and 21 is 90.63%, much higher than that of 75% by FENet with one feature transformation layer, and those of about 4% by principal component analysis (PCA) and dynamic PCA (DPCA). This research provides a promising framework for more advanced and reliable fault detection in industrial applications.
Numerical Investigation into Acoustics Characteristics towards Pressure Reducing Valve with High Ratio of Reduced Pressure
Authors: Ma Quan , Luo Chao , Wan Xiaona , Xu Zhuofei
Published: September 2024

The primary objective of this paper is to identify the critical components of the acoustic field for a piston-type pressure reducing valve (PRV) with a high pressure reduction ratio, as well as to predict unfavorable noise both experimentally and numerically. The numerical calculations were conducted using a hybrid approach that combines computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and computational aeroacoustics (CAA). Flow-induced pressure fluctuation from unsteady turbulent flow extracted by the throttling cone, the valve body and the baffle in the low-pressure chamber were considered as individual dipole acoustic sources during calculation of the internal acoustic field. The results indicated that the selected three dipole acoustic sources always played a vital role in the response of the acoustic field, and none of them could be ignored. In comparison, the throttling cone had the most salient contribution to acoustic field distribution, the valve body took second place, and the baffle had the least salient contribution. The radiated noise of interest was predicted using the indirect boundary element method (IBEM), incorporating all three components as dipole acoustic sources simultaneously; the numerical noise values showed strong validation against the experimental data. Furthermore, the distribution of sound pressure levels, as well as directional and planar field points, is also presented. This paper provides new insights into the role of each component in flow-induced noise, and offers technical support for noise reduction design and optimization of pressure reducing valves.
Papers in and Papers out of the Spotlight: Comparative Bibliometric and Altmetrics Analysis of Biomedical Reports with and without News Media Stories
Authors: Chaleplioglou Artemis
Published: September 2024

For decades, the discoverability and visibility of a paper relied on the readership of the academic journal where the publication was issued. As public interest in biomedicine has grown, the news media have taken on an important role in spreading scientific findings. This investigation explores the potential impact of news media stories on the citations and altmetrics of a paper. A total of 2020 open-access biomedical research papers, all published in the same year, 2015, and in journals with an impact factor between 10 and 14, were investigated. The papers were split into two groups based on the sole criterion of receiving or not receiving news media coverage. Papers with news media coverage accounted for 44% of the total. They received, on average, 60% more citations, 104% more blogs, 150% more X posts, 106% more Facebook reports, 40% more Wikipedia references, 85% more videos, and 51% more Mendeley readers than papers without news media coverage. The correlation between news media outlets and increased citations and altmetrics is evident. However, the broader societal impact of news media coverage, in terms of bringing scientific matters or discoveries to the public eye, appears to be more robust when compared to the reactions of the scientific community.
Recycling of Waste Oyster Shells for Fluoride Removal from Hydrofluoric Acid Wastewater
Authors: Kang Su Bin , Ko Gwang-Il , Min Byeong-Chan , Wang Zhuo , Kim Su Min , Won Sung Wook
Published: September 2024

The investigation into the implementation and widespread adoption of oyster shell recycling methods aimed at restoring coastal ecosystems and enhancing water quality is currently limited. In this study, we investigated the utilization of oyster shell powder (OSP) as a cost-effective and environmentally sustainable method for treating high-fluoride-concentration wastewater, a byproduct of industrial processes. We conducted extensive laboratory testing to determine the optimal conditions for fluoride removal. This involved variations in OSP doses, particle sizes, and initial wastewater pH levels. The results of these tests showed that OSP achieved fluoride removal efficiencies exceeding 98% at an optimal dosage of 5 g/L. In addition, OSP effectively adjusted the wastewater pH from highly acidic (pH 2) to almost neutral (pH 6.87), demonstrating its effectiveness in real-world industrial wastewater treatment. OSP, derived from oyster shell waste, is rich in calcium carbonate and offers a novel approach to wastewater management by leveraging a natural waste product. This study demonstrates the potential of OSP as a waste management strategy and contributor to the circular economy by repurposing industrial byproducts.
Comparison and Analysis of Three Methods for Dynamic Height Error Correction in GNSS-IR Sea Level Retrievals
Authors: Zhang Zhiyu , Hu Yufeng , Gong Jingzhang , Luo Zhihui , Liu Xi
Published: September 2024

Sea level monitoring is of great significance to the life safety and daily production activities of coastal residents. In recent years, GNSS interferometric reflectometry (GNSS-IR) has gradually developed into a powerful complementary technique for sea level monitoring, with the advantages of wide signal spatial coverage and lower maintenance cost. However, GNSS-IR-retrieved sea level estimates suffer from a prominent error source, referred to as the dynamic height error due to the nonstationary sea level. In this study, the tidal analysis method, least squares method and cubic spline fitting method are used to correct the dynamic height error, and their performances are analyzed. These three methods are applied to multi-system and multi-frequency data from three coastal GNSS stations, MAYG, SC02 and TPW2, for three years, and the retrievals are compared and analyzed with the in situ measurements from co-located tide gauges to explore the applicability of the three methods. The results show that the three correction methods can effectively correct the sea level dynamic height error and improve the accuracy and reliability of the GNSS-IR sea level retrievals. The tidal analysis method shows the best correction performance, with an average reduction of 39.3% (10.7 cm) and 37.6% (6.7 cm) in RMSE at the MAYG and TPW2 stations, respectively. At station SC02, the cubic spline fitting method performs the best, with the RMSE reduced by an average of 39.3% (5.5 cm) after correction. Furthermore, the iterative process of the tidal analysis method is analyzed for the first time. We found the tidal analysis method could significantly remove the outliers and correct the dynamic height error through iterations, generally superior to the other two correction methods. With the dense preliminary GNSS-IR sea level retrievals, the smaller window length of the least squares method can yield more corrected retrievals and better correction performance. The least squares method and cubic spline fitting method, especially the former, are highly dependent on the amount of daily GNSS-IR sea level retrievals, but they are more suitable for dynamic height correction in storm events than the tidal analysis method.
Assessment of Hongtu-1 Multi-Static X-Band SAR Constellation Interferometry
Authors: Wegmüller Urs , Magnard Christophe , Frey Othmar
Published: September 2024

In 2023, the Chinese company PIESAT launched the multi-static X-band SAR constellation Hongtu-1 (HT1). HT1 consists of the active monostatic SAR sensor HT1-A and the three additional passive SAR receivers HT1-B, HT1-C and HT1-D. The passive sensors are arranged as a cartwheel in a circle around the active sensor. For our SAR interferometric investigation, we were able to use a multi-static HT1 recording. After a brief introduction of HT1, we describe the processing performed. Based on the phases of the six single-pass interferometric pairs, we calculated height differences relative to the Copernicus DEM. Larger deviations were observed mainly for mining areas and for forest areas. Thanks to the simultaneous acquisition of the interferometric pairs, the high spatial resolution and the good signal quality, the necessary processing was relatively easy to perform. Besides the interferometric phase, we also investigated possible applications of multi-static coherence. Forest can be recognized by its reduced single-pass coherence values. Based on our results, we expect that the multi-static HT1 coherence and its dependence on the interferometric baseline can be used to estimate parameters such as forest biomass.
Modified Hybrid Integration Algorithm for Moving Weak Target in Dual-Function Radar and Communication System
Authors: Ji Wenshuai , Liu Tao , Song Yuxiao , Yin Haoran , Tian Biao , Zhu Nannan
Published: September 2024

To detect moving weak targets in the dual function radar communication (DFRC) system of an orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) waveform, a modified hybrid integration method is addressed in this paper. A high-speed aircraft can cause range walk (RW) and Doppler walk (DW), rendering traditional detection methods ineffective. To overcome RW and DW, this paper proposes an integration approach combining DFRC and OFDM. The proposed approach consists of two primary components: intra-frame coherent integration and hybrid multi-inter-frame integration. After the echo signal is re-fragmented into multiple subfragments, the first step involves integrating energy across fixed situations within intra-frames for each subcarrier. Subsequently, coherent integration is performed across the subfragments, followed by the application of a Radon transform (RT) to generate frames based on the properties derived from the coherent integration output. This paper provides detailed expressions and analyses for various performance metrics of our proposed method, including the communication bit error ratio (BER), responses of coherent and non-coherent outputs, and probability of detection. Simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness of our strategy.
Simulation and Forecast of Coastal Ecosystem Services in Jiaodong Peninsula Based on SSP-RCP Scenarios
Authors: Guo Wenhui , Wang Ranghui , Meng Fanhui
Published: September 2024

This study simulated the spatiotemporal changes in coastal ecosystem services (ESs) in the Jiaodong Peninsula from 2000 to 2050 and analyzed the driving mechanisms of climate change and human activities with respect to ESs, aiming to provide policy recommendations that promote regional sustainable development. Future climate change and land use were forecast based on scenarios from the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6 (CMIP6). The Integrated Valuation of Ecosystem Services and Tradeoffs (InVEST) model was used to assess ESs such as water yield (WY), carbon storage (CS), soil retention (SR), and habitat quality (HQ). Key drivers of ESs were identified using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). Results demonstrate the following: (1) High WY services are concentrated in coastal built-up areas, while high CS, HQ, and SR services are mainly found in the mountainous and hilly regions with extensive forests and grasslands. (2) By 2050, CS and HQ will show a gradual degradation trend, while the annual variations in WY and SR are closely related to precipitation. Among the different scenarios, the most severe ES degradation occurs under the SSP5-8.5 scenario, while the SSP1-2.6 scenario shows relatively less degradation. (3) SEM analysis indicates that urbanization leads to continuous declines in CS and HQ, with human activities and topographic factors controlling the spatial distribution of the four ESs. Climate factors can directly influence WY and SR, and their impact on ESs is stronger in scenarios with higher human activity intensity than in those with lower human activity intensity. (4) Considering the combined effects of human activities and climate change on ESs, we recommend that future development decisions be made to rationally control the intensity of human activities and give greater consideration to the impact of climate factors on ESs in the context of climate change.
Prediction of Metal Additively Manufactured Bead Geometry Using Deep Neural Network
Authors: So Min Seop , Mahdi Mohammad Mahruf , Kim Duck Bong , Shin Jong-Ho
Published: September 2024

Additive Manufacturing (AM) is a pivotal technology for transforming complex geometries with minimal tooling requirements. Among the several AM techniques, Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) is notable for its ability to produce large metal components, which makes it particularly appealing in the aerospace sector. However, precise control of the bead geometry, specifically bead width and height, is essential for maintaining the structural integrity of WAAM-manufactured parts. This paper introduces a methodology using a Deep Neural Network (DNN) model for forecasting the bead geometry in the WAAM process, focusing on gas metal arc welding cold metal transfer (GMAW-CMT) WAAM. This study addresses the challenges of bead geometry prediction by developing a robust predictive framework. Key process parameters, such as the wire travel speed, wire feed rate, and bead dimensions of the previous layer, were monitored using a Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM) to ensure precision. The collected data were used to train and validate various regression models, including linear regression, ridge regression, regression, polynomial regression (Quadratic and Cubic), Random Forest, and a custom-designed DNN. Among these, the Random Forest and DNN models were particularly effective, with the DNN showing significant accuracy owing to its ability to learn complex nonlinear relationships inherent in the WAAM process. The DNN model architecture consists of multiple hidden layers with varying neuron counts, trained using backpropagation, and optimized using the Adam optimizer. The model achieved mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) values of 0.014% for the width and 0.012% for the height, and root mean squared error (RMSE) values of 0.122 for the width and 0.153 for the height. These results highlight the superior capability of the DNN model in predicting bead geometry compared to other regression models, including the Random Forest and traditional regression techniques. These findings emphasize the potential of deep learning techniques to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of WAAM processes.
Radiation Detectors and Sensors in Medical Imaging
Authors: Michail Christos , Liaparinos Panagiotis , Kalyvas Nektarios , Kandarakis Ioannis , Fountos George , Valais Ioannis
Published: September 2024

Medical imaging instrumentation design and construction is based on radiation sources and radiation detectors/sensors. This review focuses on the detectors and sensors of medical imaging systems. These systems are subdivided into various categories depending on their structure, the type of radiation they capture, how the radiation is measured, how the images are formed, and the medical goals they serve. Related to medical goals, detectors fall into two major areas: (i) anatomical imaging, which mainly concerns the techniques of diagnostic radiology, and (ii) functional-molecular imaging, which mainly concerns nuclear medicine. An important parameter in the evaluation of the detectors is the combination of the quality of the diagnostic result they offer and the burden of the patient with radiation dose. The latter has to be minimized; thus, the input signal (radiation photon flux) must be kept at low levels. For this reason, the detective quantum efficiency (DQE), expressing signal-to-noise ratio transfer through an imaging system, is of primary importance. In diagnostic radiology, image quality is better than in nuclear medicine; however, in most cases, the dose is higher. On the other hand, nuclear medicine focuses on the detection of functional findings and not on the accurate spatial determination of anatomical data. Detectors are integrated into projection or tomographic imaging systems and are based on the use of scintillators with optical sensors, photoconductors, or semiconductors. Analysis and modeling of such systems can be performed employing theoretical models developed in the framework of cascaded linear systems analysis (LCSA), as well as within the signal detection theory (SDT) and information theory.
Manganese Sulfanyl Porphyrazine–MWCNT Nanohybrid Electrode Material as a Catalyst for H2O2 and Glucose Biosensors
Authors: Falkowski Michal , Leda Amanda , Hassani Mina , Wicinski Michal , Mlynarczyk Dariusz T. , Düzgüneş Nejat , Marszall Michal P. , Milczarek Grzegorz , Piskorz Jaroslaw , Rębiś Tomasz
Published: September 2024

The demetallation reaction of sulfanyl magnesium(II) porphyrazine with N-ethylphthalimide substituents, followed by remetallation with manganese(II) salts, yields the corresponding manganese(III) derivative (Pz3) with high efficiency. This novel manganese(III) sulfanyl porphyrazine was characterized by HPLC and analyzed using UV-Vis, MS, and FT-IR spectroscopy. Electrochemical experiments of Pz3 conducted in dichloromethane revealed electrochemical activity of the new complex due to both manganese and N-ethylphthalimide substituents redox transitions. Subsequently, Pz3 was deposited on multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), and this hybrid material was then applied to glassy carbon electrodes (GC). The resulting hybrid electroactive electrode material, combining manganese(III) porphyrazine with MWCNTs, showed a significant decrease in overpotential of H2O2 oxidation compared to bare GC or GC electrodes modified with only carbon nanotubes (GC/MWCNTs). This improvement, attributed to the electrocatalytic performance of Mn3+, enabled linear response and sensitive detection of H2O2 at neutral pH. Furthermore, a glucose oxidase (GOx)-containing biosensing platform was developed by modifying the prepared GC/MWCNT/Pz3 electrode for the electrochemical detection of glucose. The bioelectrode incorporating the newly designed Pz3 exhibited good activity in the presence of glucose, confirming effective electronic communication between the Pz3, GOx and MWCNT surface. The linear range for glucose detection was 0.2–3.7 mM.
Real-Time Hand Gesture Monitoring Model Based on MediaPipe’s Registerable System
Authors: Meng Yuting , Jiang Haibo , Duan Nengquan , Wen Haijun
Published: September 2024

Hand gesture recognition plays a significant role in human-to-human and human-to-machine interactions. Currently, most hand gesture detection methods rely on fixed hand gesture recognition. However, with the diversity and variability of hand gestures in daily life, this paper proposes a registerable hand gesture recognition approach based on Triple Loss. By learning the differences between different hand gestures, it can cluster them and identify newly added gestures. This paper constructs a registerable gesture dataset (RGDS) for training registerable hand gesture recognition models. Additionally, it proposes a normalization method for transforming hand gesture data and a FingerComb block for combining and extracting hand gesture data to enhance features and accelerate model convergence. It also improves ResNet and introduces FingerNet for registerable single-hand gesture recognition. The proposed model performs well on the RGDS dataset. The system is registerable, allowing users to flexibly register their own hand gestures for personalized gesture recognition.
Small-Size Eight-Element MIMO Metamaterial Antenna with High Isolation Using Modal Significance Method
Authors: Jose Alfredo Tirado-Mendez , Hildeberto Jardon-Aguilar , Ruben Flores-Leal , Arturo Rangel-Merino , Angel Perez-Miguel , Ricardo Gomez-Villanueva
Published: September 2024

This article presents a symmetrical reduced-size eight-element MIMO antenna array with high electromagnetic isolation among radiators. The array utilizes easy-to-build techniques to cover the n77 and n78 new radio (NR) bands. It is based on an octagonal double-negative metamaterial split-ring resonator (SRR), which enables a size reduction of over 50% for the radiators compared to a conventional disc monopole antenna by increasing the slow-wave factor. Additionally, due to the extreme proximity between the radiating elements in the array, the modal significance (MS) method was employed to identify which propagation modes had the most impact on the electromagnetic coupling among elements. This approach aimed to mitigate their effect by using an electromagnetic barrier, thereby enhancing electromagnetic isolation. The electromagnetic barriers, implemented with strip lines, achieved isolation values exceeding 20 dB for adjacent elements (<0.023 λ) and approaching 40 dB for opposite ones (<0.23 λ) after analyzing the surface current distribution by the MS method. The elements are arranged in axial symmetry, forming an octagon with each antenna port located on a side. The array occupies an area of 0.32 λ2 at 3.5 GHz, significantly smaller than previously published works. It exhibits excellent performance for MIMO applications, demonstrating an envelope correlation coefficient (ECC) below 0.0001, a total active reflection coefficient (TARC) lower than −10 dB for various incoming signals with random phases, and a diversity gain (DG) close to 20 dB.
Snapshot of Fall Prevention in Patients Referred to a Neurorehabilitation Unit: A Feasibility Study on the Use of an Airbag Device
Authors: Comini Laura , Olivares Adriana , Marchina Lucia , Suruniuc Adrian , Vanoglio Fabio , Bonometti Gian Pietro , Luisa Alberto , Corica Giacomo
Published: September 2024

Active wearable devices such as protective smart belts have been proposed to reduce hip impact in the event of a fall. This study primarily evaluated the feasibility and acceptance of a specific protective belt among selected patients identified as being at risk of falling who were admitted to an ICS Maugeri Neurorehabilitation Unit from September 2022 to April 2023. According to previous institutional observations, the device was worn between the 6th and 21st days of recovery. Out of 435 admitted patients, 118 were considered eligible, but 101 declined to participate (about 50% refused to wear the belt without first trying it on; the other 50% found it too heavy or difficult to manage). Among the 17 patients who accepted (users), 9 used the belt correctly. The remaining eight patients refused to wear it after 24 h, due to discomfort. Out of 435 patients admitted, we observed at least one fall in 49 patients, of whom 5 were eligible patients; 1 was a user who had quickly refused to use the belt and fell with mild damage. Two non-eligible patients and one eligible non-user patient experienced falls resulting in hip fractures; only in the latter case could the use of the belt have limited the damage to the hip. Difficulties in recruiting patients and low acceptance of the proposed intervention present further challenges.
Applications of Blockchain and Smart Contracts to Address Challenges of Cooperative, Connected, and Automated Mobility
Authors: Kontos Christos , Panagiotakopoulos Theodor , Kameas Achilles
Published: September 2024

Population growth and environmental burden have turned the efforts of cities globally toward smarter and greener mobility. Cooperative and Connected Automated Mobility (CCAM) serves as a concept with the power and potential to help achieve these goals building on technological fields like Internet of Things, computer vision, and distributed computing. However, its implementation is hindered by various challenges covering technical parameters such as performance and reliability in tandem with other issues, such as safety, accountability, and trust. To overcome these issues, new distributed and decentralized approaches like blockchain and smart contracts are needed. This paper identifies a comprehensive inventory of CCAM challenges including technical, social, and ethical challenges. It then describes the most prominent methodologies using blockchain and smart contracts to address them. A comparative analysis of the findings follows, to draw useful conclusions and discuss future directions in CCAM and relevant blockchain applications. The paper contributes to intelligent transportation systems’ research by offering an integrated view of the difficulties in substantiating CCAM and providing insights on the most popular blockchain and smart contract technologies that tackle them.
What We Know about Nasal Polyposis: The Clinician’s Point of View
Authors: Eloy Philippe , Musat Gabriela Cornelia
Published: September 2024

Nasal polyposis is defined as a Th2-driven chronic inflammation of the nose and sinus with polyps visible in the nasal fossae. It is a prevalent disease with a significant impact on health-related quality of life (HRQL). Allergies, allergic rhinitis, asthma, and aspirin intolerance are frequently associated. The management is individual. The first line of treatment is long-term treatment with intranasal corticosteroids. Oral corticosteroids should be used with caution. When the medical treatment fails, the patient is eligible for sinus surgery, which usually consists of a complete sphenoethmoidectomy. In the case of symptomatic recurrence after both medical and surgical treatment, biologics are currently a very promising treatment effective on all respiratory tracts. Dupilumab is considered in the literature to be the molecule of choice. However, besides the international guidelines published by EPOS and Euforea, the molecule prescribed depends also on its availability in each country and the criteria edited by the health authorities to receive reimbursement. Traditional medical treatment remains necessary as a complement to biologics. At the moment, there is no consensus on when the medical treatment can be stopped.
The Global Prevalence of HTLV-1 and HTLV-2 Infections among Immigrants and Refugees—A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Marinho Thaís Augusto , Okita Michele Tiemi , Guimarães Rafael Alves , Zara Ana Laura de Sene Amâncio , Caetano Karlla Antonieta Amorim , Teles Sheila Araújo , de Matos Márcia Alves Dias , Carneiro Megmar Aparecida dos Santos , Martins Regina Maria Bringel
Published: September 2024

This is the first systematic review and meta-analysis to estimate the prevalence of human T-lymphotropic virus 1 and 2 (HTLV-1 and 2) infections among immigrants and refugees worldwide. PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Virtual Health Library (VHL) databases were searched for studies published from their inception to 6 January 2023. A meta-analysis using a generalized linear mixed model with a random effect was performed for HTLV-1 and HTLV-2. Subgroup analyses were performed based on the decade of study, sample size, confirmatory methods, region of study, risk group, and region of origin. Of the 381 studies initially identified, 21 were included. The pooled prevalence of HTLV-1 and HTLV-2 was 1.28% (95% CI: 0.58, 2.81) and 0.11% (95% CI: 0.04, 0.33), respectively. HTLV-1 prevalence differed significantly by region of origin, with the highest prevalence among those from the Western Pacific Region (7.27%; 95% CI: 2.94, 16.83). The subgroup analysis also showed significant differences between the estimates of HTLV-1 considering the decade of study, sample size, and region of study. For HTLV-2, significant differences were shown in relation to sample size, confirmatory methods, and risk group. The higher HTLV-1 prevalence found deserves public health attention in immigrant and refugee-receiving non-endemic countries.
The Assembly of HTLV-1—How Does It Differ from HIV-1?
Authors: Herrmann Dominik , Meng Shuyu , Yang Huixin , Mansky Louis M. , Saad Jamil S.
Published: September 2024

Retroviral assembly is a highly coordinated step in the replication cycle. The process is initiated when the newly synthesized Gag and Gag-Pol polyproteins are directed to the inner leaflet of the plasma membrane (PM), where they facilitate the budding and release of immature viral particles. Extensive research over the years has provided crucial insights into the molecular determinants of this assembly step. It is established that Gag targeting and binding to the PM is mediated by interactions of the matrix (MA) domain and acidic phospholipids such as phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PI(4,5)P2). This binding event, along with binding to viral RNA, initiates oligomerization of Gag on the PM, a process mediated by the capsid (CA) domain. Much of the previous studies have focused on human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1). Although the general steps of retroviral replication are consistent across different retroviruses, comparative studies revealed notable differences in the structure and function of viral components. In this review, we present recent findings on the assembly mechanisms of Human T-cell leukemia virus type 1 and highlight key differences from HIV-1, focusing particularly on the molecular determinants of Gag–PM interactions and CA assembly.
Comparison of Chikungunya Virus-Induced Disease Progression and Pathogenesis in Type-I Interferon Receptor-Deficient Mice (A129) and Two Wild-Type (129Sv/Ev and C57BL/6) Mouse Strains
Authors: Graham Victoria A. , Easterbrook Linda , Rayner Emma , Findlay-Wilson Stephen , Flett Lucy , Kennedy Emma , Fotheringham Susan , Kempster Sarah , Almond Neil , Dowall Stuart
Published: September 2024

Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is a mosquito-borne alphavirus causing a debilitating febrile illness with rheumatic disease symptoms of arthralgia and arthritis. Since its spread outside of Africa in 2005, it continues to cause outbreaks and disseminates into new territories. Intervention strategies are urgently required, including vaccination and antiviral approaches. To test efficacy, the use of small animal models is required. Two mouse strains, A129, with a deficiency in their type-I interferon (IFN) receptor, and C57BL/6 are widely used. A direct comparison of these strains alongside the wild-type parental strain of the A129 mice, 129Sv/Ev, was undertaken to assess clinical disease progression, viral loads in key tissues, histological changes and levels of sera biomarkers. Our results confirm the severe disease course in A129 mice which was not observed in the parental 129Sv/Ev strain. Of the two wild-type strains, viral loads were higher in 129Sv/Ev mice compared to C57BL/6 counterparts. Our results have established these models and parameters for the future testing of vaccines and antiviral approaches.
Comparative Effectiveness of the Bivalent (Original/Omicron BA.4/BA.5) mRNA COVID-19 Vaccines mRNA-1273.222 and BNT162b2 Bivalent in Adults with Underlying Medical Conditions in the United States
Authors: Kopel Hagit , Nguyen Van Hung , Bogdanov Alina , Winer Isabelle , Boileau Catherine , Ducruet Thierry , Zeng Ni , Winer-Jones Jessamine P. , Esposito Daina B. , Bausch-Jurken Mary , Beck Ekkehard , Bonafede Machaon , Mansi James A.
Published: September 2024

Background/Objectives: This retrospective cohort study evaluated the relative vaccine effectiveness (rVE) of two bivalent (original/Omicron BA.4/BA.5) vaccines mRNA-1273.222 versus the BNT162b2 Bivalent in preventing COVID-19-related outcomes in adults with underlying medical conditions associated with increased risk for severe COVID-19. Methods: In a linked electronic health record/claims dataset, US adults (≥18 years) with ≥1 underlying medical condition of interest who received either the bivalent vaccine between 31 August 2022 and 28 February 2023 were identified. The inverse probability of treatment weighting was used to adjust for cohort differences. Cohorts were followed up for COVID-19-related hospitalizations and outpatient encounters until 31 May 2023. Hazard ratios and rVEs were estimated using Cox regression. Subgroup analyses were performed on individuals with pre-specified comorbid conditions. Results: 757,572 mRNA-1273.222 and 1,204,975 BNT162b2 Bivalent recipients were identified. The adjusted rVE over a median follow-up of 198 days was 10.9% (6.2%–15.2%) against COVID-19-related hospitalization and 3.2% (1.7%–4.7%) against COVID-19-related outpatient encounters. rVE estimates for COVID-19 hospitalizations among subgroups with comorbid conditions were as follows: diabetes 15.1% (8.7%–21.0%), cerebro- and cardiovascular disease 14.7% (9.0%–20.1%), chronic lung disease 11.9% (5.1%–18.2%), immunocompromised 15.0% (7.2%–22.2%), chronic kidney disease 8.4% (0.5%–15.7%). Conclusions: Overall, among adults with underlying medical conditions, mRNA-1273.222 was more effective than BNT162b2 Bivalent, especially in preventing COVID-19-related hospitalizations.
Methodology to Improve an Extended-Range Electric Vehicle Module and Control Integration Based on Equivalent Consumption Minimization Strategy
Authors: Puma-Benavides David Sebastian , Calderon-Najera Juan de Dios , Izquierdo-Reyes Javier , Galluzzi Renato , Llanes-Cedeño Edilberto Antonio
Published: September 2024

The continuous expansion of the vehicle fleet contributes to escalating emissions, with the transportation sector accounting for approximately 21% of CO2 emissions, based on 2023 data. Focused on reducing emissions and reliance on fossil fuels, the study observes the shift from internal combustion vehicles to electric and hybrid models since 2017. Despite advancements, these vehicles still lack optimal efficiency and suffer from limited range, deterring potential buyers. This article aims to evaluate the range-extending technologies for electric vehicles, emphasizing efficiency, low pollution, and integration compatibility. An algorithm incorporating equations representing mechanical or electrical component curves is developed for Extended-Range Electric Vehicles, facilitating insight into potential range extender behavior. The core objectives of this study involve optimizing the entire powertrain system to ensure peak efficiency. Experimental tests demonstrate that integrating an auxiliary power unit enhances range, with an internal combustion engine generator configuration extending the travel distance by 35.35% at a constant speed. Moreover, with the use of an Equivalent Consumption Minimization Strategy control, the distance traveled increases up to 39.28% on standard driving cycles. The proposed methodology, validated through practical implementations, allows for comprehensive energy analyses, providing a precise understanding of vehicle platform performance with integrated range extenders.
Human resources as an object of the enterprise management system
Authors:   Patrice Lumumba Russian People’s Friendship University, Moscow, Qiang V.
Published: September 2024

The article analyzes approaches to human resource management and evaluation of their effectiveness. Human resource management of an organization is a targeted activity of the enterprise’s management personnel, including the development of the concept and strategies of personnel policy, principles and methods of personnel management, as well as evaluation of the effectiveness of the entire human resource management system.
Customer orientation in the restaurant business on the example of the Mangal restaurant
Authors:   Patrice Lumumba Russian People’s Friendship University, Moscow, Matsygorin V. A.
Published: September 2024

This article examines the concept of customer focus in the context of the restaurant business using the example of the Mangal restaurant. The study is based on a comprehensive analysis of customer reviews, visitor survey results, and an assessment of the establishment’s business processes. Key factors influencing guest satisfaction, such as food quality, establishment atmosphere, service level, and value for money, are identified. Particular attention is paid to the analysis of visitor demographic characteristics and their impact on customer preferences. Based on the data obtained, specific recommendations for improving the restaurant’s customer focus have been developed and proposed, including optimizing business processes, improving the personnel training system, and introducing modern technological solutions. The results of the study can be used to improve the quality of service in the Mangal restaurant and other catering establishments seeking to increase their competitiveness in the restaurant services market.
The use of digital technologies in marketing
Authors:   Russian Peoples’ Friendship University, Moscow, Antkiv A. O. , Adinyaev S. I. ,   Russian Peoples’ Friendship University, Moscow
Published: September 2024

The article discusses the use of digital technologies in conducting marketing research.
Burn from Sosnowsky’s hogweed (lat. Heracléum sosnó wskyi). Case from practice
Authors:   FSBEI CPE RMACPE of the Ministry of Health of Russia, Moscow, Korshikova Yu. I.
Published: September 2024

The author describes a successful case of providing medical care to a patient with burns from Sosnowsky's hogweed outside a medical organization.
Folk themes in the gaming industry: meanings, values, diffi culties
Authors:   Department of Philosophy, Cultural Studies and Political Science, Moscow University for the Humanities, Sapozhnikova Viktoriya Stanislavovna
Published: September 2024

The active appeal to ancient Russian themes in the modern information space is explained by the actualization of traditional values. On the one hand, they provide diversity and freedom of choice, but on the other hand, familiarization with this variability and the possibility of joining it form the assumption that modernity represents a “universal plurality” of meanings of values, attitudes, ethnic, social and other affi liations. Awareness of the variability of the world and acceptance of “ubiquitous plurality” with its diversity of meanings and values is a psychologically complex process. In addition, all these communities are united not only by one information space, but also by being in a common present, i.e. in this historical period, which is characterized by exceptional dynamics.