bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gender typicality of occupational aspirations among immigrant and native youth: the role of gender ideology, educational aspirations, and work values
Authors: Gambaro Ludovica , Wilhelm Janna , Schober Pia Sophia
Published: June 2023

The gender typicality of adolescents' occupational aspirations helps sustain occupational segregation, ultimately contributing to maintain gender stratification. According to sociological and psychological perspectives, adolescents develop occupational aspirations by drawing on their gender beliefs and work-related values. Yet few empirical studies have examined the contribution of these value orientations specifically to the gender typicality of occupational aspirations. Moreover, although children from immigrant backgrounds make up an ever-increasing share of school-age students, there is scant evidence on the gender typicality of their occupational aspirations relative to those of their majority peers. This study investigates variations in the gender typicality of occupational aspirations among adolescents from immigrant and non-immigrant backgrounds at around age 16. It also explores how the gender typicality of different groups' aspired occupations relates to differences in gender ideologies, in educational aspirations, and in the importance attributed to three work values: the possibility to earn high income, to help others, and to think and solve problems. Drawing on a harmonized survey from England, Germany, the Netherlands and Sweden, the analysis uses a sample of 8,574 adolescents, including 1,510 girls and 1,336 boys from immigrant backgrounds. Multinomial logistic regressions estimated the associations with aspired occupations, classified as masculine, integrated, feminine or ultrafeminine based on the proportion of women working in them. Results indicate that boys and girls of immigrant origin aspired to somewhat less gender-typical occupations than their majority peers. Among girls, these differences would be even larger if they were not suppressed by the more traditional gender ideologies held by girls from immigrant backgrounds. In terms of mediating mechanisms, our findings suggest that more ambitious educational aspirations may partly explain these differences. These findings indicate that distinguishing between multiple dimensions of adolescents' work-related values hint at different underlying mechanisms in the formation of adolescents' occupational aspirations.
Portuguese Physical Literacy Assessment for adolescents (15–18 years): validation using confirmatory factor and composite analyses
Authors: Mota João , Martins João , Onofre Marcos , Dudley Dean
Published: June 2023

Objective

The aim of this study was to assess the construct validity and reliability of the Portuguese Physical Literacy Assessment (PPLA) instruments (a questionnaire and a tool using teacher-reported data). We also investigated the conceptual and practical implications of reflective vs. formative measurement of Physical Literacy using the PPLA.

Methods

Multiple Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) and Confirmatory Composite Analysis (CCA) models were used complementarily to assess construct validity in a sample of 521 grade 10–12 Portuguese students from Lisbon, Portugal. Bifactor model-based indices (ω), Explained Common Variance (ECV), and Percentage of Uncontaminated Correlations (PUC) were used to assess score reliability and adequacy.

Results

Using CFA, an asymmetrical bifactor model (S*1-1) provided the best fit to the data [Robust Comparative Fit Index = 97, Robust Root Mean Square Error Of Approximation = 0.05 (0.04–0.06), Standardized Root Mean Square Residual (SRMR) = 0.04], while CCA resulted in the best absolute fit for single first-order composite models (dG, dL, and SRMR below or borderline of their 95% critical value). Through a reflective paradigm, the total PL score should not be used in isolation (ECV = 0.49, ωH = 0.71, lower than recommended 0.80). Subscales for the Physical, Psychological, and Social domains attained acceptable reliability scores (ωs = 0.76, 0.82, 0.80, and 0.60).

Conclusions

A general trait of PL accounts for considerable variance in all indicators. We advise calculation of a total summed PL score and domain scores, which should be interpreted conjointly in applied settings. Despite both paradigms being tenable, future research efforts should use a bifactor measurement model, which permits disentanglement of the variance attributed to the general PL trait and its domains. Overall, evidence supported the construct validity and reliability of the PPLA for its intended use as an integrated tool to measure PL as a multidimensional construct in 15- to 18-year-old Portuguese students in a physical education setting.
The division of work in Senegalese conventional and alternative food networks: a contributive justice perspective
Authors: Boillat Sébastien , Bottazzi Patrick , Sabaly Ibrahima Khalil
Published: June 2023

Labor conditions and rights are a key justice issue in agri-food systems, particularly in global, capitalized and industrialized food supply chains. While alternative food networks have emerged to produce and distribute food outside these logics, their ability to provide more equitable work conditions remains widely debated. We examine equity issues in the division of labor in food exchange networks in the horticultural sector of Senegal from the perspective of contributive justice. Contributive justice considers more broadly how different qualities of work are distributed and how work is perceived by the workers themselves. We performed 71 interviews of workers participating in three food exchange networks: (1) the conventional horticultural supply chain from the Niayes production area to Dakar, (2) an NGO-supported organic food network also supplying goods from Niayes to Dakar and (3) a community-supported agriculture scheme in a peri-urban coastal area. We investigated how functions and tasks are distributed along gender, ethnicity, place of origin and education characteristics of workers and how they qualify their tasks in terms of satisfaction and tediousness. We found a sharp labor division along gender, education and ethnic characteristics in the conventional network and a less sharp one in the two alternative networks. However, worker participants in alternative networks tend to belong to local elites and rarely include more disadvantaged people; they also tend to be less specialized and perform several functions, but do not necessarily express better work satisfaction. Workers who perform highly tedious tasks in the conventional network show rather surprising high work satisfaction. Based on these findings, we discuss the interplays between external and situated perceptions of work and the organization of food supply chains. This allows to critically examine the transformative potential of alternative food networks in the context of a lower-middle income country such as Senegal.
Consumer food storage practices and methods at the household-level: a community study in Ghana
Authors: Afriyie Ebenezer , Zurek Monika , Asem Freda E. , Okpattah Bernard , Ahiakpa John K. , Zhu Yong-Guan
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Household-level food storage can make food available to consumers, and promotes food security. Nevertheless, attention is mostly devoted to enhancing food storage at the farmer and national levels, neglecting the household level. It is therefore critical to assess food storage practices of households. This study examined food storage practices of households, evaluated expert opinions on household-level food storage, and assessed the effect household characteristics has on food storage and food security.

Methods

Dzorwulu and Jamestown communities in Accra, Ghana, were chosen as the study locations. The study consisted of a survey, expert interviews and structural equation modeling. For the survey, 400 food household heads selected using systematic sampling method responded to a semi-structured questionnaire. Seventeen (17) experts were also purposively sampled and interviewed.

Results and Discussion

The results showed that, most households stored foodstuffs they often consumed, with generally low storage of fruits and vegetables. Perishable foods such as cassava, tomato, yam, and banana were stored by 37.8, 42, 38.3 and 43.8% of households, respectively, for 1–3 days. Households often stored food within a period of 2 weeks, due to poor storage facilities and lack of food storage knowledge. About 85.8% of households had never received training on food storage. Most households used baskets, bowls, sacks and polyethylene bags to store food at home, and some used refrigerators and deep freezers. Regarding the link between food storage and food security, household heads’ income showed a significant positive moderating effect (p ≤ 0.01), households’ socioeconomic status had a positive effect, while household size indicated a significant negative moderating effect (p ≤ 0.01). The experts asserted that, household-level food storage enhances food security and food safety, and reduces food expenditure and food wastage. The limited food storage knowledge of households should be a basis for intervention to enhance proper food storage practices within households.
Optimizing lucerne (Medicago sativa) termination on the Loess Plateau, China: a comparative analysis of conventional tillage and herbicide treatments
Authors: Zhao Yixuan , Guo Junhong , Luo Shiheng , Shen Yuying , Siddique Kadambot H. M. , Li Yuan
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Lucerne (Medicago sativa L.) is a crucial component in agricultural rotation systems due to its ability to enhance soil carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) contents. In China, conventional tillage (CT) is commonly used for lucerne termination, leading to soil structure degradation and C and N losses. While herbicide application has been suggested for lucerne termination in the United States and EU, its impact on lucerne growth suppression and soil C and N contents in China remains uncertain.

Methods

In this study, we examined the effects of herbicide type [glyphosate and 2,4-D (G + 2), glyphosate and dicamba (G + D), 2,4-D and dicamba (2 + D), with water (W) and CT as controls] and concentration (100, 200, 300%) on various lucerne and soil properties.

Results and Discussion

Our findings revealed that G + 2 and 2 + D treatments significantly reduced the regreening rate, and the recommended herbicide concentration (100%) was sufficient for lucerne termination. CT and W treatments resulted in a higher soil pH compared to herbicide treatments. Moreover, herbicide treatments exhibited higher soil organic C (SOC) and total N (TN) levels than the CT treatment. The 2 + D treatment demonstrated a higher SOC content compared to the G + 2 treatment, while the 200 and 300% herbicide concentrations reduced SOC and TN levels. The G + 2 treatment had the highest soil ammonium nitrogen content (7.94 ± 1.45 mg kg−1), while the CT treatment showed the lowest (6.46 ± 1.54 mg kg−1). In conclusion, our study suggests that applying the recommended herbicide dosage (100%) effectively terminates lucerne grassland on the Loess Plateau of China without negatively impacting soil C and N storage. Finally, it is important to acknowledge that one-year trials at a single site have inherent limitations, and the findings should be considered cautiously when informing policy decisions.
Comparison of laparoscopic partial nephrectomy performed with AirSeal® system vs. standard insufflator: results from a referral center
Authors: Forte Flavio , Tripodi Domenico , Pironi Daniele , Corongiu Emanuele , Gagliardi Federica , Frisenda Marco , Gallo Gaetano , Quarantiello Antonia , Di Lorenzo Giuseppe , Cavaleri Yuri , Salciccia Stefano , Lori Eleonora , Sorrenti Salvatore
Published: June 2023

Objective

To compare perioperative and oncologic surgical outcomes during laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (LPN) performed by standard carbon dioxide insufflation, with those from surgeries in which the AirSeal® intelligent insufflation system was used for renal tumors.

Materials and methods

A total of 27 patients with renal tumor were identified, 14 underwent LPN with AirSeal® (group A) and 13 LPN with standard insufflator (group B), respectively. Demographic baseline characteristics were similar in the two groups.

Results

The size of the tumor was largest in group B (29.64 vs. 32.1 mm). The mean operative time was shorter in the AirSeal® group [group A: mean 109.0 min, median 107.5 min, interquartile range (IQR) 85; group B: mean 121.0 min, median 120.0 min, IQR 50.0]. Positive margin rates were absent in the two groups. Estimated blood loss presented a difference in the perioperative period (group A: mean 1.5 g/dL, median 1.45 g/dL; group B: mean 2.15 g/dL, median 2.2 g/dL). Time to ischemia was found to be shorter in group A with a median of 18 min compared to a median of 20 min in group B. No subcutaneous emphysema, pneumothorax, and pneumomediastinum cases occurred in either group. A postoperative complication developed in one patient requiring superselective embolization.

Conclusion

In selected patients, our preliminary surgical experience has shown that the LPN procedure performed with the aid of the AirSeal® intelligent insufflation system can be used to treat even medium-/high-complexity kidney lesions, with a reduction in operating times, lower rates of complications, and perioperative blood loss.

Clinical trial registration

AirSealV1.
The Intersectionality of Sex and Race in the Relationship Between Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Cardiovascular Disease: A Scoping Review
Authors: Hunter Lauren D. , Boer Tara , Saltzman Leia Y.
Published: June 2023

Objectives: Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has been linked with cardiovascular disease (CVD), suggesting a risk for negative health outcomes among individuals with PTSD. This review synthesizes the temporal relationship between PTSD and CVD and highlights the intersection of sex and race.

Methods: Covidence was used to systematically review the literature published between 1980 and 2020.

Results: 176 studies were extracted. 68 (38.64%) of the studies were a predominantly male sample. 31 studies (17.61%) were a predominantly female sample. Most reported participants of both sexes (n = 72; 40.91%) and only 5 (2.84%) did not report respondent sex. No studies reported transgender participants. 110 (62.5%) studies reported racial and ethnic diversity in their study population, 18 (10.22%) described a completely or predominantly white sample, and 48 (27.27%) did not report race or ethnicity of their study population.

Conclusion: A compelling number of studies did not identify sex differences in the link between PTSD and CVD or failed to report race and ethnicity. Investigating sex, race, ethnicity, and the temporal relationship between PTSD and CVD are promising avenues for future research.
Comparison and Evaluation of Low-Temperature Tolerance of Different Soybean Cultivars during the Early-Growth Stage
Authors: Wang Xin , Li Xiaomei , Zhou Qi , Song Shuang , Dong Shoukun
Published: June 2023

Low temperatures have seriously affected crop growth owing to climate change and frequent extreme weather. Low-temperature disasters easily affect the early-growth stages of planted soybeans in Northeast China. In the present study, the comprehensive evaluation method using low-temperature (4 °C) simulation at soybean germination and seedling stages was used to compare soybean cultivars. The results revealed that low temperatures inhibited the germination ability of soybean seeds and prolonged the average germination time (about 7–13 days under low temperatures). Simultaneously, low-temperature stress at the seedling stage decreased plant height and dry weight, but accumulated proline and soluble sugar. The soluble protein content of most cultivars decreased at low temperatures. Peroxidase activity was significantly decreased in henong70, suinong82, and heinong83, and opposite in the other cultivars. Additionally, MDA content increased in cultivars heinong69, dongnong42, and dongnong55. The final comprehensive evaluation showed that Suinong42 had better low-temperature tolerance, whereas Kendou40 was more sensitive to low temperatures. The grey correlation analysis also showed that dry weight and proline can be used as the target traits for cultivar improvement.
Surveillance and Risk Analysis for Bovine Babesiosis in England and Wales to Inform Disease Distribution
Authors: McFadzean Harriet , Johnson Nicholas , Phipps L. Paul , Swinson Vanessa , Boden Lisa A.
Published: June 2023

Babesia divergens is a zoonotic piroplasm that infects both cattle and humans in Europe. Disease transmission occurs through Ixodes ricinus tick bites, a species that is increasing in abundance and distribution across Europe in response to climate and land-use changes. Developments in agri-environment policy and changing consumer demands may also have unintended consequences on tick-borne disease rates. Currently, B. divergens surveillance in British cattle is limited, rendering temporal trend analysis and the detection of potential zoonotic hotspots impossible. The objective of this study was to assess syndromic surveillance as a means of determining babesiosis distribution in British cattle, and to evaluate the intrinsic disease risk factors in order to respond to disease threats posed by changing environments. Samples from 95 clinically affected cattle on 70 unique holdings were screened for Babesia spp., using established blood smear examination techniques and a B. divergens-specific PCR method, between April and December 2021. B. divergens was detected in 45/95 animals (47.4%), with PCR offering the advantage of identification at species level. Infection with Anaplasma phagocytophilum was detected in 19/95 animals (20%). Co-infection was detected in five animals. The cases were recorded across multiple geographic regions and throughout the sampling period. Univariate logistic regression analysis failed to identify any statistically significant risk factors for B. divergens presence. This study demonstrates that bovine babesiosis is geographically widespread throughout England and Wales, placing a large proportion of the cattle population at risk of infection, with the potential for zoonotic transmission to humans.
Effects of Dietary Enrichment with Olive Cake on the Thyroid and Adrenocortical Responses in Growing Beef Calves
Authors: Fazio Esterina , Bionda Arianna , Chiofalo Vincenzo , Fauci Deborah La , Randazzo Cinzia , Pino Alessandra , Crepaldi Paola , Attard George , Liotta Luigi , Lopreiato Vincenzo
Published: June 2023

Agro-industrial by-products incorporated into livestock feed formulations can positively impact feed costs and promote a circular bio-economy. Italy produces significant amounts of olive cake (OC), a by-product of olive oil extraction, with the potential for incorporation into bovine diets. However, information on its effects on endocrine responses in growing beef calves is lacking. Forty-eight Limousines randomly allocated to dietary treatment (control or 10%-OC or 15%-OC inclusion) were segregated according to sex and body weight. Serum concentrations of TSH, thyroid hormones, and cortisol were measured on day 0, day 56, and at the end of the trial on day 147. Circulating TSH, total (T3, T4) and free (fT3, fT4) iodothyronines, and cortisol concentrations were all within the normal physiological ranges, with no significant effect imparted by diet. However, the diet × time interaction was significant for T3. The cortisol, T3, T4, and fT4 registered on day 147 were higher than those of day 56, and cortisol was higher in heifers than bulls. Final body weight was positively correlated with TSH and T3 and negatively with cortisol concentration. These findings suggest that the inclusion of OC at levels up to 15% in growing/finishing beef diets had no adverse effects on the calves’ thyroid and cortical status.
Proteolysis-Targeting Chimera (PROTAC) Delivery into the Brain across the Blood-Brain Barrier
Authors: Tashima Toshihiko
Published: June 2023

Drug development for neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and Huntington’s disease has challenging difficulties due to the pharmacokinetic impermeability based on the blood-brain barrier (BBB) as well as the blurriness of pharmacodynamic targets based on their unclarified pathogenesis and complicated progression mechanisms. Thus, in order to produce innovative central nervous system (CNS) agents for patients suffering from CNS diseases, effective, selective delivery of CNS agents into the brain across the BBB should be developed. Currently, proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) attract rising attention as a new modality to degrade arbitrary intracellular proteins by the ubiquitin-proteasome system. The internalizations of peptide-based PROTACs by cell-penetrating peptides and that of small molecule-based PROTACs through passive diffusion lack cell selectivity. Therefore, these approaches may bring off-target side effects due to wrong distribution. Furthermore, efflux transporters such as multiple drug resistance 1 (MDR1) expressed at the BBB might interrupt the entry of small molecule-based PROTACs into the brain. Nonetheless, intelligent delivery using machinery systems to absorb the nutrition into the brain for homeostasis, such as carrier-mediated transport (CMT) or receptor-mediated transcytosis (RMT), can be established. PROTACs with N-containing groups that are recognized by the proton-coupled organic cation antiporter might cross the BBB through CMT. PROTAC-antibody conjugates (PACs) might cross the BBB through RMT. Subsequently, such small molecule-based PROTACs released in the brain interstitial fluid would be transported into cells such as neurons through passive diffusion and then demonstrate arbitrary protein degradation. In this review, I introduce the potential and advantages of PROTAC delivery into the brain across the BBB through CMT or RMT using PACs in a non-invasive way.
An Experimental Investigation on Mechanical Properties and Failure Characteristics of Layered Rock Mass
Authors: Zheng Yongxiang , Zhang Tongjing , Yang Haotian , Wang Wei , Niu Qinghe , Wei Haiyang
Published: June 2023

Layered rock mass is a common rock mass structure with diverse forms and complex mechanical properties. Three types of composite layered rock mass prepared using sandstone and shale can be divided into sandwiched type, interbedded type and superimposed type. The total height of the combined rock mass is 50 mm, which is a cylinder composed of sandstone and shale with a diameter of 25 mm and different thickness. Uniaxial compression tests on sandstone, shale and combined rock mass were performed. The results show that, with the increase in the content of soft components, the compressive strength and elastic modulus of the combined rock mass tend to decrease. The mechanical properties of the superimposed rock mass will be between the two components and close to the soft component in numerical value. The mechanical properties of sandwiched rock mass are obviously affected by the properties of the sandwiched rock. When the content of the components is consistent, interbedded rock mass often shows higher strength and elastic modulus. Compared with other rock mass, interbedded rock mass has more stable mechanical properties. The stress–strain curve can be divided into the compaction stage, elastic stage, plastic development stage and post-fracture stage. The composition content of the rock mass plays a decisive role in the compaction stage. The failure modes are mainly shear failure and tensile failure. With the increase in soft rock content, the failure degree of soft rock is gradually weakened, and the failure modes show a trend from tensile failure to shear failure. The experimental results provide theorical guidance for underground engineering construction.
Prediction of MAG Welding Formation Based on Fuzzy Interpolation Reasoning
Authors: Pan Zufu , Feng Zhiqiang , Yuan Hao , Li Xin
Published: June 2023

Welding is an important production and processing method in industrial production. Due to the uncertainty of its process and the complexity of its mechanism, it is challenging to construct an accurate welding process parameter model to describe it. Fuzzy interpolation reasoning is a valuable tool in the realm of intelligent systems. It helps to reduce the complexity of fuzzy models and can be used for reasoning in fuzzy systems with sparse rule bases. This paper provides an interpolation reasoning method that combines fuzzy set distance and similarity. The proposed method is applied to welding forming predictions, and welding penetration is predicted by the given welding current and speed. The results show that the algorithm has high calculation accuracy.
Deep Lifelong Learning Optimization Algorithm in Dense Region Fusion
Authors: Zhang Linghao , Ding Fan , Xiang Siyu , Qin Zhang , Chang Zhengwei , Wang Hongjun
Published: June 2023

Deep lifelong learning models can learn new information continuously while minimizing the impact on previously acquired knowledge, and thus adapt to changing data. However, existing optimization approaches for deep lifelong learning cannot simultaneously satisfy the following conditions: unrestricted learning of new data, no use of old data, and no increase in model parameters. To address this problem, a deep lifelong learning optimization algorithm based on dense region fusion (DLLO-DRF) is proposed. This algorithm first obtains models for each stage of lifelong learning, and divides the model parameters for each stage into multiple regions based on the parameter values. Then, based on the dispersion of the parameter distribution, dense regions are dynamically obtained from the divided regions, and the parameters of the dense regions are averaged and fused to optimize the model. Finally, extensive experiments are conducted on the self-labeled transmission line defect dataset, and the results show that DLLO-DRF has the best performance among various comparative algorithms.
UTTSR: A Novel Non-Structured Text Table Recognition Model Powered by Deep Learning Technology
Authors: Li Min , Zhang Liping , Zhou Mingle , Han Delong
Published: June 2023

To prevent the compilation of documents, many table documents are formatted with non-editable and non-structured texts such as PDFs or images. Quickly recognizing the contents of tables is still a challenge due to factors such as irregular formats, uneven text quality, and complex and diverse table content. This article proposes the UTTSR table recognition model, which consists of four parts: text region detection, text line detection and recognition, and table sequence recognition. For table detection, the Cascade Faster RCNN with the ResNeXt105 network is implemented, using TPS (Thin Plate Spline) transformation and affine transformation to correct the image and to improve accuracy. For text line detection, DBNET is used with Do-Conv in FPN (Feature Pyramid Networks) to speed up training. Text lines are recognized using CRNN without the CTC module, enhancing recognition performance. Table sequence recognition is based on the transformer combined with post-processing algorithms that fuse table structure sequences and unit grid content. Experimental results show that the UTTSR model outperforms the compared methods. This upgraded model significantly improves the accuracy of the previous state-of-the-art F1 score on complex tables, reaching 97.8%.
Poleward Migration of Spatial Asymmetry in Tropical Cyclone Precipitation over the Western North Pacific
Authors: Ju Xia , Sun Jia , Wu Dijia , Li Lingli , Hu Xiaomin , Ren Zhaopeng , Guo Yanliang , Yu Long , Hui Zhenli , Xiong Xuejun
Published: June 2023

Comprehensive understanding of the spatial characteristics of tropical cyclone (TC) precipitation is essential for effective socioeconomic planning and scientific research. The present study examines the spatial asymmetry in TC precipitation over the western North Pacific (WNP) concerning various factors, including latitudes, sea surface temperature (SST), TC intensity, and translation speed, based on satellite observations. The results reveal a significant poleward migration of TC precipitation asymmetry particularly above 15° N. Furthermore, the asymmetry exhibits considerable sensitivity to changes in TC center latitudes and SSTs, characterized by anticlockwise and northeastward migration, respectively. The poleward migration of TC precipitation spatial asymmetry is primarily due to the poleward decreasing SST, increasing vertical wind shear and increasing TC translation speed. These findings contribute to a comprehensive understanding of TC behavior over the WNP and provide valuable insights for disaster preparedness and mitigation efforts.
Progressive Rehabilitation Based on EMG Gesture Classification and an MPC-Driven Exoskeleton
Authors: Bonilla Daniel , Bravo Manuela , Bonilla Stephany P. , Iragorri Angela M. , Mendez Diego , Mondragon Ivan F. , Alvarado-Rojas Catalina , Colorado Julian D.
Published: June 2023

Stroke is a leading cause of disability and death worldwide, with a prevalence of 200 millions of cases worldwide. Motor disability is presented in 80% of patients. In this context, physical rehabilitation plays a fundamental role for gradually recovery of mobility. In this work, we designed a robotic hand exoskeleton to support rehabilitation of patients after a stroke episode. The system acquires electromyographic (EMG) signals in the forearm, and automatically estimates the movement intention for five gestures. Subsequently, we developed a predictive adaptive control of the exoskeleton to compensate for three different levels of muscle fatigue during the rehabilitation therapy exercises. The proposed system could be used to assist the rehabilitation therapy of the patients by providing a repetitive, intense, and adaptive assistance.
Bioactive Peptides and Protein Hydrolysates as Lipoxygenase Inhibitors
Authors: Wong Fai-Chu , Chai Tsun-Thai
Published: June 2023

Lipoxygenases are non-heme iron-containing enzymes that catalyze the oxidation of polyunsaturated fatty acids, resulting in the production of lipid hydroperoxides, which are precursors of inflammatory lipid mediators. These enzymes are widely distributed in humans, other eukaryotes, and cyanobacteria. Lipoxygenases hold promise as therapeutic targets for several human diseases, including cancer and inflammation-related disorders. Inhibitors of lipoxygenase have potential applications in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and food. Bioactive peptides are short amino acid sequences embedded within parent proteins, which can be released by enzymatic hydrolysis, microbial fermentation, and gastrointestinal digestion. A wide variety of bioactivities have been documented for protein hydrolysates and peptides derived from different biological sources. Recent findings indicate that protein hydrolysates and peptides derived from both edible and non-edible bioresources can act as lipoxygenase inhibitors. This review aims to provide an overview of the current knowledge regarding the production of anti-lipoxygenase protein hydrolysates and peptides from millet grains, chia seeds, insects, milk proteins, fish feed, velvet antler blood, fish scales, and feather keratins. The anti-lipoxygenase activities and modes of action of these protein hydrolysates and peptides are discussed. The strengths and shortcomings of previous research in this area are emphasized. Additionally, potential research directions and areas for improvement are suggested to accelerate the discovery of anti-lipoxygenase peptides in the near future.
Polypharmacy and Medication Outcome Reporting Bias in Older Patients with COVID-19
Authors: Brown Ronald B.
Published: June 2023

Polypharmacy, the use of multiple and potentially inappropriate medications, is an increasing problem among older adults. The global polypharmacy prevalence is 34.6% in patients with COVID-19, and polypharmacy in COVID-19 increases with age. The present paper proposes that polypharmacy in older adults with COVID-19 and other comorbid conditions is linked to the medication outcome reporting bias of randomized controlled trials. Outcome reporting bias can occur when treatment efficacy is reported as relative risk reductions, which overestimates medication benefits and exaggerates disease/illness risk reductions compared to unreported absolute risk reductions. The comorbidities common in patients with COVID-19 include high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, dementia or cerebrovascular disease, and diabetes. Accordingly, the present paper reassesses the relative and absolute risk reductions in clinical trials from a small convenience sample of antihypertension, statin, anticoagulant, and antihyperglycemic medications. Examples demonstrate a wide gap between reported relative risk reductions and unreported absolute risk reductions in medication clinical trials. This paper concludes that medication clinical trial outcome reporting bias is an important upstream factor that contributes to biased medication benefits and poor clinical decision making, leading to polypharmacy in older adults with COVID-19 and other comorbid conditions. Public health campaigns are urgently needed to educate the public about the link between polypharmacy and medication outcome reporting bias.
A Review of Building Carbon Emission Accounting and Prediction Models
Authors: Gao Huan , Wang Xinke , Wu Kang , Zheng Yarong , Wang Qize , Shi Wei , He Meng
Published: June 2023

As an industry that consumes a quarter of social energy and emits a third of greenhouse gases, the construction industry has an important responsibility to achieve carbon peaking and carbon neutrality. Based on Web of Science, Science-Direct, and CNKI, the accounting and prediction models of carbon emissions from buildings are reviewed. The carbon emission factor method, mass balance method, and actual measurement method are analyzed. The top-down and bottom-up carbon emission accounting models and their subdivision models are introduced and analyzed. Individual building carbon emission assessments generally adopt a bottom-up physical model, while urban carbon emission assessments generally adopt a top-down economic input-output model. Most of the current studies on building carbon emission prediction models follow the path of “exploring influencing factors then putting forward prediction models based on influencing factors”. The studies on driving factors of carbon emission mainly use the Stochastic Impacts by Regression on Population, Affluence, and Technology (STIRPAT) model, the Logarithmic Mean Divisia Index (LMDI) model, the grey correlation degree model, and other models. The prediction model is realized by the regression model, the system dynamics model, and other mathematical models, as well as the Artificial Neural Network (ANN) model, the Support Vector Machine (SVM) model, and other machine learning models. At present, the research on carbon emission models of individual buildings mainly focuses on the prediction of operational energy consumption, and the research models for the other stages should become a focus in future research.
Statistical Subspace-Based Damage Detection and Jerk Energy Acceleration for Robust Structural Health Monitoring
Authors: Hayat Khizar , Mehboob Saqib , Latif Qureshi Qadir Bux alias Imran , Ali Afsar , Matiullah  , Khan Diyar , Altaf Muhammad
Published: June 2023

This paper introduces a multistep damage identification process that is both straightforward and useful for identifying damage in buildings with regular plan geometries. The algorithm proposed in this study combines the utilization of a multi-damage sensitivity feature and MATLAB programming, providing a comprehensive approach for the structural health monitoring (SHM) of different structures through vibration analysis. The system utilizes accelerometers attached to the structure to capture data, which is then subjected to a classical statistical subspace-based damage detection test. This test focuses on monitoring changes in the data by analyzing modal parameters and statistically comparing them to the structure’s baseline behavior. By detecting deviations from the expected behavior, the algorithm identifies potential damage in the structure. Additionally, the algorithm includes a step to localize damage at the story level, relying on the jerk energy of acceleration. To demonstrate its effectiveness, the algorithm was applied to a steel shear frame model in laboratory tests. The model utilized in this study comprised a total height of 900 mm and incorporated three lumped masses. The investigation encompassed a range of scenarios involving both single and multiple damages, and the algorithm proposed in this research demonstrated the successful detection of the induced damages. The results indicate that the proposed system is an effective solution for monitoring building structure condition and detecting damage.
Bacterial, Viral and Parasitic Pathogens and Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Kato Ikuko
Published: June 2023

Several viral, bacterial, and parasitic pathogens have been designated as human carcinogens by the World Health Organization [...]
New 3D Printing Strategy for Structured Carbon Devices Fabrication
Authors: Delgado-Martín Gabriel , Rodríguez Nicolás , Domínguez María Isabel , Agámez Yazmin Yaneth , Martínez Tejada Marcela , Ruíz-López Estela , Ivanova Svetlana , Centeno Miguel Ángel
Published: June 2023

This work shows a new method for the preparation of 100% carbon-structured devices. The method is based on resorcinol-formaldehyde polymerization, using starch as a binder with the addition of a certain amount of external carbon source before polymerization. Molds obtained by 3D printing are used to shape the structured devices in the desired shape, and the ultimate pyrolysis step consolidates and produces the carbonaceous devices. The proposed method allows obtaining supports with different textural and surface properties varying the carbonaceous source, the solvent, or the pyrolysis conditions, among other factors. The as-obtained devices have demonstrated their usefulness as palladium supports for the gas-phase formic acid dehydrogenation reaction. The monolith shows a high conversion of formic acid (81% according to H2 production) and a high selectivity towards hydrogen production at mild temperatures (80% at 423 K).
Improvement of n-Butene Yield in Dimethyl Ether-to-Olefin Reaction Using Ferrierite Zeolite Catalysts
Authors: Hanaoka Toshiaki , Aoyagi Masaru , Edashige Yusuke
Published: June 2023

Various ferrierite zeolites were investigated as catalysts for the dimethyl ether (DME)-to-olefin (DTO) reactions to efficiently synthesize n-butene, such as 1-butene, trans-2-butene, and cis-2-butene except for iso-butene using a fixed-bed flow reactor. Twenty P-loaded ferrierite zeolites with different structural parameters and acidic properties were prepared by the impregnation method by varying the P content and the temperature of air calcination as a pretreatment. The zeolites were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), N2 adsorption-desorption, and NH3 temperature-programmed desorption (NH3-TPD). Micropore surface area, external surface area, total pore volume, micropore volume, and weak and strong acid sites affected the DTO reaction behavior. A high n-butene yield (31.2 C-mol%) was observed, which is higher than the previously reported maximum yield (27.6 C-mol%). Multiple regression analysis showed that micropore surface area and strong acid sites had a high correlation with n-butene yield. Based on our findings, we explained the reaction mechanism for selective n-butene synthesis except for iso-butene in the DTO reaction by the dual cycle model.
Ex Vivo Preservation of Ovine Periosteum Using a Perfusion Bioreactor System
Authors: Xin Hai , Romanazzo Sara , Tomaskovic-Crook Eva , Mitchell Timothy C. , Hung Jui Chien , Wise Steven G. , Cheng Kai , Al Maruf D S Abdullah , Stokan Murray J. , Manzie Timothy G. H. , Parthasarathi Krishnan , Cheung Veronica K. Y. , Gupta Ruta , Ly Mark , Pulitano Carlo , Wise Innes K. , Crook Jeremy M. , Clark Jonathan R.
Published: June 2023

Periosteum is a highly vascularized membrane lining the surface of bones. It plays essential roles in bone repair following injury and reconstruction following invasive surgeries. To broaden the use of periosteum, including for augmenting in vitro bone engineering and/or in vivo bone repair, we have developed an ex vivo perfusion bioreactor system to maintain the cellular viability and metabolism of surgically resected periosteal flaps. Each specimen was placed in a 3D printed bioreactor connected to a peristaltic pump designed for the optimal flow rates of tissue perfusate. Nutrients and oxygen were perfused via the periosteal arteries to mimic physiological conditions. Biochemical assays and histological staining indicate component cell viability after perfusion for almost 4 weeks. Our work provides the proof-of-concept of ex vivo periosteum perfusion for long-term tissue preservation, paving the way for innovative bone engineering approaches that use autotransplanted periosteum to enhance in vivo bone repair.
Costs of Healthcare for Children with Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD) in Poland
Authors: Markiewicz-Łoskot Grażyna , Chlebowczyk Wojciech , Holecki Tomasz
Published: June 2023

The last two decades have seen an increase in the incidence of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in many regions of the world, which has had a significant impact on both the social and economic burden of governments and healthcare systems. The aim of this study was to determine the level of hospitalization and outpatient treatment costs for children and adolescents with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, depending on age, location, and activity of the disease. Methods were a retrospective analysis of the medical documentation of 240 children with IBD, hospitalized in the Gastroenterology Ward, Department of Pediatrics Medical University of Silesia (Katowice, Poland), along the three years follow up. The costs of treatment consisted of calculations of the supply of oral and intravenous drugs, calculations of the costs of laboratory tests, imaging, and consultations, as well as person-day costs. The most important results, determined with high costs of IBD treatment, are associated with younger age, high disease activity, localization in the small intestine in Crohn’s disease (CD), and inflammatory changes in the entire colon in Ulcerative Colitis (UC). During the observation, it was noticed that the shortening of the hospitalization time did not significantly affect the total costs, which remained at a stable level.
Offshore Electrical Grid Layout Optimization for Floating Wind—A Review
Authors: Kallinger Magnus Daniel , Rapha José Ignacio , Trubat Casal Pau , Domínguez-García José Luis
Published: June 2023

Electrical grid layout optimization should consider the placements of turbines and substations and include effects such as wake losses, power losses in cables, availability of different cable types, reliability-based power losses and operational/decommissioning cost besides the initial investment cost. Hence, optimizing the levelized cost of energy is beneficial capturing long-term effects. The main contribution of this review paper is to identify the current works and trends on electrical layout optimization for offshore wind farms as well as to analyze the applicability of the found optimization approaches to commercial-scale floating wind farms which have hardly been investigated so far. Considering multiple subproblems (i.e., micrositing and cabling), simultaneous or nested approaches are advantageous as they avoid sequential optimization of the individual problems. To cope with this combinatorial problem, metaheuristics seems to offer optimal or at least close-to-optimal results while being computationally much less expensive than deterministic methods. It is found that floating wind brings new challenges which have not (or only insufficiently) been considered in present optimization works. This will also be reflected in a higher complexity and thus influence the suitability of applicable optimization techniques. New aspects include the mobility of structures, the configurations and interactions of dynamic cables and station-keeping systems, the increased likelihood of prevailing heterogeneous seabeds introducing priority zones regarding anchor and riser installation, the increased importance of reliability and maintainability due to stricter weather limits, and new floating specific wind farm control methods to reduce power losses. All these facets are crucial to consider when thoroughly optimizing the levelized cost of energy of commercial-scale floating offshore wind farms.
Histopathological and Immunohistochemical Prognostic Factors in High-Grade Non-Endometrioid Carcinomas of the Endometrium (HG-NECs): Is It Possible to Identify Subgroups at Increased Risk?
Authors: Paudice Michele , Biatta Chiara Maria , Scaglione Giulia , Parodi Alessia , Mammoliti Serafina , Moioli Melita , Centurioni Maria Grazia , Barra Fabio , Ferrero Simone , De Cian Franco , Mazzocco Katia , Vellone Valerio Gaetano
Published: June 2023

Endometrial cancer is an emerging disease with an increase in prevalence of aggressive histotypes in recent years. Background: In the present study, potential histopathological and immunohistochemical prognostic markers were investigated. Consecutive cases of high-grade non-endometrioid carcinoma (HG-NEC) of the endometrium were considered. Methods: Each surgical specimen was routinely processed; the most significant block was selected for immunohistochemistry and tested for ER, PR, ki67, p53, E-cadherin, β-catenin, Bcl-2 and cyclin D1. For each immunomarker, the percentage of positive tumor cells was evaluated (%) and dichotomized as low and high according to the distribution in the study population. Follow-up was collected for disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS). Thirty-three cases were eligible: 19 resulted in FIGO I–II; 14 resulted in FIGO III–IV. Twelve patients suffered a recurrent disease (mean follow-up 24.6 months); 8 patients died of the disease (mean follow-up 26.6 months). Results: Women with recurrent disease demonstrated a significantly higher Bcl2% (35.84 ± 30.96% vs. 8.09 ± 11.56%; p = 0.0032) while DOD patients had higher ki67% (75 ± 13.09% vs. 58.6 ± 19.97%; p = 0.033) and Bcl2% of border significance (34.37 ± 34.99% vs. 13 ± 17.97%; p = 0.078). As expected, FIGO III–IV had a worse DFS (HR = 3.34; 95% CI: 1.1–10.99; p = 0.034) and OS (HR = 5.19; 95% CI: 1.27–21.14; p = 0.0217). Bcl-2-high patients (Bcl2 > 10%) demonstrated a significantly worse DFS (HR = 9.11; 95% CI: 2.6–32.4; p = 0.0006) and OS (HR = 7.63; 95% CI: 1.7–34; p = 0.0084); moreover, PR low patients (PR ≤ 10%) had significantly worse DFS (HR = 3.74; 95% CI: 1.2–11.9; p = 0.02). Conclusions: HG-NEC represents a heterogeneous group of endometrial aggressive neoplasms with a worrisome prognosis, often at an advanced stage at presentation. Bcl-2 and PR may represent promising markers to identify a subgroup of patients having an even worse prognosis requiring a careful and close follow-up.