bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Team-Assisted Individualization Type of the Cooperative Learning Model for Improving Mathematical Problem Solving, Communication, and Self-Proficiency: Evidence from Operations Research Teaching
Authors: Tinungki Georgina Maria , Nurwahyu Budi , Hartono Agus Budi , Hartono Powell Gian
Published: November 2022

The purpose of this study is to analyze the increase in the mathematical problem-solving (MPS), mathematical communication (MC), and self-proficiency (SPr) abilities of students by applying the team-assisted individualization type (TAI) of the cooperative and conventional learning models for the experimental and control classes. This is a quasi-experimental study comprising a sample of 50 and 42 students studying for an undergraduate degree in statistics for the experimental and control classes, respectively. Students’ mathematical prior knowledge (MPK) is grouped into three levels, namely high, medium, and low. The instruments used are the MPS test, the MC test, the self-proficiency scale, and observation sheets. Statistical analysis instruments used are parametric and non-parametric statistics, such as prerequisite tests for normality and homogeneity of variance, mean difference tests in two or more groups, the post hoc test, and description and interaction tests. The results showed an increase in MPS, MC, and SPr in the experimental class, which is higher than in the control class. Furthermore, there is no interaction between the experimental and control classes despite a significant correlation between MPS, MC, and MPS. These findings are relevant to mathematics and statistics teaching because it has been proven to improve students’ MPS, MC, and SPr; hence, learning outputs can be achieved objectively, specifically for operations research teaching.
Quaternion Attitude Control System of Highly Maneuverable Aircraft
Authors: Gołąbek Michał , Welcer Michał , Szczepański Cezary , Krawczyk Mariusz , Zajdel Albert , Borodacz Krystian
Published: November 2022

In the era of rapid advancements in manned and unmanned aviation and robotics, there is a need for high-performance, robust attitude control of highly maneuverable fixed-wing aircraft, both manned and unmanned (UAVs). This paper presents an extension to research on spacecraft attitude control. The article extends existing concepts and applies them to the control problem of aircraft operating in Earth’s atmosphere. First, a general concept of quaternions is presented. Next, the attitude controller’s architecture is discussed. The controller synthesis is described using quaternion algebra. The quaternion-based attitude controller is then compared with a classical Euler-based attitude controller. The methodology for comparison and performance evaluation of both controllers is described. Lastly, the results of the simulations and a comparison of the two controllers are presented and discussed. The presented control scheme outperforms classical methods based on Euler angles, particularly at the aircraft’s high pitch and roll angles.
Design of the Radio Frequency Section of a Ka-Band Multiple Beam Ladder-Type Extended Interaction Klystron
Authors: Maity Santigopal , Kumar Madutha Santosh , Koley Chaitali , Pal Debashish , Bandyopadhyay Ayan Kumar
Published: November 2022

Ka-band frequencies are becoming increasingly popular due to their application potential in high-data-rate wireless communications relevant to 5G applications, satellite link establishment, etc. High-power amplifiers in this frequency band, offering several tens of watts of output RF power, are one of the main enabling components of these communication systems. This article reports the design studies and analysis of the radio frequency (RF) section of a multiple beam-extended interaction klystron (MB-EIK). The proposed multiple beam RF section with a ladder-type EIK structure offers several crucial features, such as a low-voltage operation, moderate operational bandwidth, and high output power. Starting from the design of the intermediate cavities, the input and output sections and the overall RF section are presented. The proposed RF section supports the operation at 28.5 GHz center frequency with about a 500 MHz 3 dB bandwidth employing four electron beams with a 4 kV DC accelerating field.
An Improved Measurement Matrix Generator for Compressed Sensing of ECG Signals
Authors: Yu Zhiguo , Zhao Zuoqin , Tian Qing , Guo Jun , Huang Xiang , Gu Xiaofeng
Published: November 2022

Compressed sensing (CS) is being widely used to compress and reconstruct data for processing electrocardiogram (ECG) signals obtained through Wireless Body Area Networks. However, the conventional measurement matrix generator and compression computations for CS are in parallel, resulting in significant power consumption and a large area. This paper proposes a serial measurement matrix generator, which reduces the clock frequencies by using linear feedback shift registers and latches. A CS circuit for ECG signals processing based on the proposed measurement matrix generator is proposed and implemented in a SMIC 55 nm CMOS process. The experimental results show that the power consumption is only 1.690 μW at 1.2 V, and the chip area is 0.608 mm2, which has obvious advantages over the traditional parallel architecture. The reconstruction results show that the Percentage Root-mean-square Difference is 1.32%, which means that the design meets the basic clinical requirements.
Improving Healthcare Applications Security Using Blockchain
Authors: Farahat Ibrahim Shawky , Aladrousy Waleed , Elhoseny Mohamed , Elmougy Samir , Tolba Ahmed Elsaid
Published: November 2022

Nowadays, the Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) technology is growing and leading the revolution in the global healthcare field. Exchanged information through IoMT permits attackers to hack or modify the patient’s data. Hence, it is of critical importance to ensure the security and privacy of this information. The standard privacy techniques are not secured enough, so this paper introduces blockchain technology that is used for securing data. Blockchain is used with the smart contract to secure private patient records. This paper presents how a patient may send his vital signs to the physician through the Internet without meeting with the latter in person. These vital signs are collected from the IoMT system that we developed before. In the proposed method, each medical record is stored in the block and connected to the previous block by a hashing function. In order to secure the new block, the SHA256 algorithm is used. We modified the SHA256 algorithm by using run-length code in compressing data. If any hacker attempts to attack any medical record, he must change all previous blocks. In order to preserve the rights of the doctor and patient, a smart contract is built into the blockchain system. When the transaction begins, the smart contract withdraws the money from the patient’s wallet and stores it in the smart contract. When the physician sends the treatment to the patient, the smart contract transfers the money to the physician. This paper shows that all recent work implements Blockchain 2 into the security system. This paper also shows that our security system can create a new block with O (n + d) time complexity. As a result, our system can create one hundred blocks in two minutes. Additionally, our system can deposit the money from the patient’s wallet into the physician’s wallet promptly. This paper also shows that our method performs better than all subsequent versions of the original blockchain.
Enrichment of Logging Gaps with High-Value Timber Species: How Far Fertilizer, Biochar and Mammal Predation Affect Performances of Cylicodiscus gabunensis Harms Seedlings
Authors: Makemba Romaric Ndonda , Tosso Félicien , Moupela Christian , Ligot Gauthier , Brostaux Yves , Doucet Jean-Louis
Published: November 2022

Many commercial species are light-demanding and regenerate with difficulty in natural forest, which compromises the sustainability of logging. Okan, Cylicodiscus gabunensis Harms is one of the most exploited species in Central Africa and its regeneration is deficient in evergreen forest. In forest concessions, the enrichment of logging gaps with commercial species has already been tested but only for a few species. Mixed results have been obtained because the ability of seedlings to emerge from competing vegetation depends on the species, the environment and the silvicultural techniques adopted. This paper aims to determine the performance of C. gabunensis when planted in felling gaps. The impact of fertilization and biochar application on the performance of the seedlings was examined, as well as the role of predation played by large mammals. In 30 gaps, whose light levels were quantified, we planted nine seedlings and applied three treatments (fertilizer and biochar, fertilizer, control). The performance of the seedlings (survival, mammal damage and growth) was followed for 18 months. In another 30 gaps, the preferential consumption of C. gabunensis seedlings was quantified using camera traps. Seedlings had moderate and highly variable growth (1.84 cm to 2.50 cm in height and 0.201 mm to 0.267 mm in basal diameter per month, all treatments combined). Gap size and initial fertilization significantly boosted growth in diameter and survival rate. Elephants preferentially sought out C. gabunensis seedlings and after 18 months they destroyed 35% of the plants. Enrichment of logging gaps with C. gabunensis should therefore be limited to the largest gaps in forests with low elephant densities. Initial fertilization is recommended but not allowed under the sustainable management certification guidelines. We suggest that these standards should be adapted to maximize the chances of success.
A Comparative Study on the Drivers of Forest Fires in Different Countries in the Cross-Border Area between China, North Korea and Russia
Authors: Quan Donghe , Quan Hechun , Zhu Weihong , Lin Zhehao , Jin Ri
Published: November 2022

The occurrence and spread of forest fires are the result of the interaction of many factors. In cross-border areas, different fire management systems may lead to different forest fire driving factors. A comparative analysis of the forest fire driving factors in different countries can help to provide ideas for fire prevention and control. In this study, based on the logistic regression (LR) model and standardized coefficients, we determined the relative impact of forest fire driving factors in different countries, in the cross-border area between China, North Korea and Russia from 2001 to 2020, and established a forest fire probability and fire risk level division using a Kriging interpolation. The results show that the climate is the most important factor affecting the probability of forest fires in the cross-border area, followed by the topography and vegetation factors; human activities have the least influence. From a country-by-country perspective, the forest fires on the Chinese side were more affected by humans than on the North Korean and Russian sides and they were mainly concentrated in areas with a low altitude and high population density. The forest fires on the North Korean side and the Russian side were more affected by nature than on the Chinese side and were mainly concentrated in areas with a low altitude, high temperature and little rainfall. The high-risk areas for forest fires were mostly concentrated near the border between China, North Korea and Russia, where transboundary fires pose a great threat to forest resources and rare animals. This study shows that there is a significant difference between the impact of different forest fire management systems on fire conditions, and that active forest fire control policies can effectively reduce the damage caused by forest fires. Due to the complexity of the geopolitics in cross-border areas, transboundary firefighting faces certain difficulties. In the future, it will be necessary to strengthen the cooperation between countries and establish transboundary joint defenses against forest fires in order to protect the declining forest resources and the habitats of rare animals.
Characterization of the Chloroplast Genome Structure of Gueldenstaedtia verna (Papilionoideae) and Comparative Analyses among IRLC Species
Authors: Son Ogyeong , Choi Kyoung Su
Published: November 2022

The genus Gueldenstaedtia belongs to Papilionaceae’s inverted repeat-lacking clade (IRLC) and includes four species distributed throughout Asia. We sequenced the chloroplast genome of G. verna and compared it with those of the IRLC clade. The genome was 122,569 bp long, containing 77 protein-coding genes, 30 tRNAs, and 4 rRNAs. Comparative analyses showed that G. verna lost one inverted repeat region, the rps16 gene, an intron of rpoC1, and two introns of clpP. Additionally, G. verna had four inversions (~50 kb inversion, trnK–psbK; ~28 kb inversion, accD–rpl23; ~10 kb inversion, rps15–trnL; ~6 kb inversion, trnL–trnI) and one reposition (ycf1). Its G + C content was higher than that of other IRLC species. The total length and number of repeats of G. verna were not significantly different from those of the other IRLC species. Phylogenetic analyses showed that G. verna was closely related to Tibetia. A comparison of substitution rates showed that ycf2 and rps7 were higher than one, suggesting that these were positive selection genes, while others were related to purified selection. This study reports the structure of the chloroplast genome of a different type, i.e., with four inversions and one reposition, and would be helpful for future research on the evolution of the genome structure of the IRLC.
Suitability of Surface-Treated Flax and Hemp Fibers for Concrete Reinforcement
Authors: da Costa Santos Ana Caroline , Archbold Paul
Published: November 2022

The use of vegetable fibres as a sustainable alternative to non-natural sources of fibres applied for concrete reinforcement has been studied for over three decades. The main issues about plant-based fibres pointed out by other authors are the variability in their properties and concerns about potential high biodegradability in the alkaline pH of the concrete matrix. Aiming to minimise the variability of flax and hemp fibres, this research compares a range of chemical surface treatments, analysing their effects on the behaviour of the fibres and the effects of their addition to concrete. Corroborating what has been found by other authors, the treatment using NaOH 10% for 24 h was able to enhance the properties of hemp fibre-reinforced concrete and reduce the degradability in alkaline solution. For flax fibres, a novel alternative stood out: treatment using 1% of stearic acid in ethanol for 4 h. Treatment using this solution increased the tensile by 101%, causing a minor effect on the elastic modulus. Concrete mixes reinforced with the treated flax fibres presented reduced thermal conductivity and elastic modulus and increased residual tensile strength and fracture energy.
The Effect of the Improvement Technology on the Quality of Midu Pork Roll
Authors: Xiao Xue , Wang Bowen , Zhao Ping , Ge Changrong , Li Shijun , Xiao Zhichao
Published: November 2022

Midu pork roll (MPR), produced in Midu County, Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan, China, is a traditional fermented meat product with a long history. This study aims to enhance the physical and flavor profile of MPR by improving its process, fermentation conditions and formulations. There were three different formulations, including traditional craft (control group: C), optimization process of Sichuan spicy flavor formula (Test group 1: T1) and optimization process of halogen flavor formula (Test group 2: T2). Higher moisture content, L*, a* and b* values and lower hardness, chewiness and shear force were observed in T1 and T2 compared to C (p < 0.05). A total of 15 free amino acids were detected throughout the fermentation process, during which the content of umami amino acids, sweet amino acids and bitter amino acids underwent significant changes. A total of 88, 85 and 75 volatile compounds were detected in C, T1 and T2, respectively, in which the relative content of alkanes and ketones in T1 and T2 were higher than those in C (p < 0.05). The process and formulas have improved the color, texture characteristics and tenderness of MPR to a certain extent, meanwhile, they have enhanced the flavor of MPR.
Nitrogenous Fertilizer Levels Affect the Physicochemical Properties of Sorghum Starch
Authors: Huang Yani , Tian Lixin , Yang Qinghua , Zhang Miaomiao , Liu Guiyang , Yu Shaopeng , Feng Baili
Published: November 2022

Nitrogen is a key factor affecting sorghum growth and grain quality. This experiment was designed to investigate the physicochemical properties of sorghum starch in four sorghum varieties (Liaoza 10, Liaoza 19, Jinza 31, and Jinza 34) under four nitrogen levels: 0 kg/ha urea (N1), 300 kg/ha urea as base fertilizer (N2), 300 kg/ha urea as topdressing at the jointing stage (N3), and 450 kg/ha urea as topdressing at the jointing stage (N4). The results showed that grain size and amylose content increased with increasing nitrogen fertilizer level, peaking at N3. The peak viscosity, final viscosity, gelatinization temperature, initial temperature, final temperature, and enthalpy value increased with the nitrogenous fertilizer level, peaking at N3. The application of nitrogen fertilizer at the jointing period significantly increased the above indicators. However, excess nitrogen at the jointing period (N4) can significantly reduce the above indicators, thus changing the physicochemical properties and structure of sorghum starch. Overall, nitrogen significantly affects the structure and physicochemical properties of sorghum starch.
Screening and Identification of Novel Soluble Epoxide Hydrolase Inhibitors from Corn Gluten Peptides
Authors: Dang Jiamin , Du Shuangkui , Wang Liying
Published: November 2022

The objective of this study was to investigate the soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH) inhibitory properties of corn gluten peptides. In total, 400 dipeptides and 8000 tripeptides were first virtually screened by molecular docking and 30 potential sEH inhibitory peptides were selected. Among them, WEY, WWY, WYW, YFW, and YFY showed the highest sEH inhibitory activities with IC50 values of 55.41 ± 1.55, 68.80 ± 7.72, 70.66 ± 9.90, 96.00 ± 7.5, and 94.06 ± 12.86 μM, respectively. These five peptides all behaved as mixed-type inhibitors and were predicted to form hydrogen bond interactions mainly with Asp333, a key residue located in the catalytic active site of sEH. Moreover, it was found that the corn gluten hydrolysates of Alcalase, Flavourzyme, pepsin and pancreatin all exhibited high sEH inhibitory activities, with IC50 values of 1.07 ± 0.08, 1.19 ± 0.24, and 1.46 ± 0.31 mg/mL, respectively. In addition, the sEH inhibitory peptides WYW, YFW, and YFY were successfully identified from the corn gluten hydrolysates by Alcalase using nano-LC-MS/MS. This study demonstrated the sEH inhibitory capacity of peptides for the first time and corn gluten might be a promising food protein source for discovering novel natural sEH inhibitory peptides.
Effect of Tartary Buckwheat Bran Substitution on the Quality, Bioactive Compounds Content, and In Vitro Starch Digestibility of Tartary Buckwheat Dried Noodles
Authors: Xue Chaoqiang , Guo Xiaona , Zhu Kexue
Published: November 2022

This study aimed to investigate the impact of partial replacement of Tartary buckwheat flour (TBF) with Tartary buckwheat bran flour (TBBF) on the quality, bioactive compounds content, and in vitro starch digestibility of Tartary buckwheat dried noodles (TBDNs). When the substitution of TBBF was increased from 0 to 35%, the cooking and textural properties decreased significantly (p < 0.05), while the content of bioactive compounds (phenolic, flavonoids and dietary fiber) increased significantly (p < 0.05). In addition, the substitution of TBBF decreased the starch digestibility of TBDNs. A 10.4% reduction in eGI values was observed in the TBDNs with 35% TBBF substitution compared to the control sample. The results of differential scanning calorimetry showed that with the increase of TBBF, TBDNs starch became more resistant to thermal processing. Meanwhile, the X-ray diffraction and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy results revealed that the long- and short-range ordered structures of TBDN starch increased significantly (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the substitution of TBBF decreased the fluorescence intensity of α-amylase and amyloglucosidase. This study suggests that replacing TBF with TBBF could produce low glycemic index and nutrient-rich TBDNs.
Prediction of Protein Concentration in Pea (Pisum sativum L.) Using Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS) Systems
Authors: Daba Sintayehu D. , Honigs David , McGee Rebecca J. , Kiszonas Alecia M.
Published: November 2022

Breeding for increased protein concentration is a priority in field peas. Having a quick, accurate, and non-destructive protein quantification method is critical for screening breeding materials, which the near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) system can provide. Partial least square regression (PLSR) models to predict protein concentration were developed and compared for DA7250 and FT9700 NIRS systems. The reference protein data were accurate and exhibited a wider range of variation (15.3–29.8%). Spectral pre-treatments had no clear advantage over analyses based on raw spectral data. Due to the large number of samples used in this study, prediction accuracies remained similar across calibration sizes. The final PLSR models for the DA7250 and FT9700 systems required 10 and 13 latent variables, respectively, and performed well and were comparable (R2 = 0.72, RMSE = 1.22, and bias = 0.003 for DA7250; R2 = 0.79, RMSE = 1.23, and bias = 0.055 for FT9700). Considering three groupings for protein concentration (Low: <20%, Medium: ≥20%, but ≤25%, and High: >25%), none of the entries changed from low to high or vice versa between the observed and predicted values for the DA7250 system. Only a single entry moved from a low category in the observed data to a high category in the predicted data for the FT9700 system in the calibration set. Although the FT9700 system outperformed the DA7250 system by a small margin, both systems had the potential to predict protein concentration in pea seeds for breeding purposes. Wavelengths between 950 nm and 1650 nm accounted for most of the variation in pea protein concentration.
Identification and Characterization of the HD-Zip Gene Family and Dimerization Analysis of HB7 and HB12 in Brassica napus L.
Authors: Peng Xiangyong , Wu Di , Zhang Xin , Liu Qingwei , Lu Qiuli , Song Min
Published: November 2022

Homeodomain-leucine zipper (HD-Zip) genes encode plant-specific transcription factors, which play important roles in plant growth, development, and response to environmental stress. These genes have not been fully studied in allopolyploid Brassica napus, an important kind of oil crop. In this study, 165 HD-Zip genes were identified in B. napus and classified into four subfamilies. If proteins belong to the same subfamily, they exhibit similarities in gene structure, motifs, and domain distribution patterns. BnHD-Zip genes were unevenly distributed in the An and Cn subgenomes. Whole genome triplication (WGT) events may be major mechanisms accounting for this gene family expansion. Orthologous gene analysis showed that the process of this gene family expansion was accompanied by domain loss. We further found three genes homologous to HB7 and three genes homologous to HB12, all induced by PEG, ABA, and NaCl treatment. HB7 could not form homodimers but could form heterodimers with HB12 based on yeast two-hybrid assays. The results of this study provide valuable information for further exploration of the HD-Zip gene family in B. napus.
Machine-Learning Applications in Geosciences: Comparison of Different Algorithms and Vegetation Classes’ Importance Ranking in Wildfire Susceptibility
Authors: Trucchia Andrea , Izadgoshasb Hamed , Isnardi Sara , Fiorucci Paolo , Tonini Marj
Published: November 2022

Susceptibility mapping represents a modern tool to support forest protection plans and to address fuel management. With the present work, we continue with a research framework developed in a pioneristic study at the local scale for Liguria (Italy) and recently adapted to the national scale. In these previous works, a random-forest-based modeling workflow was developed to assess susceptibility to wildfires under the influence of a number of environmental predictors. The main novelties and contributions of the present study are: (i) we compared models based on random forest, multi-layer perceptron, and support vector machine, to estimate their prediction capabilities; (ii) we used a more accurate vegetation map as predictor, allowing us to evaluate the impacts of different types of local and neighboring vegetation on wildfires’ occurrence; (iii) we improved the selection of the testing dataset, in order to take into account the temporal variability of the burning seasons. Wildfire susceptibility maps were finally created based on the output probabilistic predicted values from the three machine-learning algorithms. As revealed with random forest, vegetation is so far the most important predictor variable; the marginal effect of each type of vegetation was then evaluated and discussed.
Duration of Daytime Napping Is Related to Physical Fitness among Chinese University Students
Authors: Kong Lingfeng , Cui Yufei , Gong Qiang
Published: November 2022

Reportedly, daytime napping affects the physical fitness of athletes. However, results of these studies are conflicting, and may not be generalizable to all populations. Early adulthood is an important period linking adolescents and adults, during which building good physical fitness is crucial for their remaining lives. Thus, we investigated whether daytime napping duration is associated with physical fitness among Chinese university students. This study was based on an annual physical health examination for all university students and included 11,199 participants (6690 males; 4509 females). The daytime napping duration was assessed using a self-report questionnaire. Physical fitness was measured with a 50 m sprint; 1000 m (for males) and 800 m (for females) runs; standing long jump, sit-and-reach, pull-up (for males), and sit-up (for females) tests; and vital capacity. The adjusted association was evaluated using analysis of covariance. Of the participants, 86% napped regularly. After covariate adjustment was performed, significant V-shaped associations were observed between the daytime napping duration and the 50 m sprint and 800 m run results in males and females. Inverted V-shaped associations were observed between the daytime napping duration and the sit-and-reach, standing long jump, and pull-up test performances and vital capacity in males and between the daytime napping duration and the standing long jump test performance in females. Daytime napping for <30 min may have beneficial effects on physical fitness among university students.
Prognostic Factors and a Model for Occult Breast Cancer: A Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Zhang Di , Zhai Jingtong , Li Lixi , Wu Yun , Ma Fei , Xu Binghe
Published: November 2022

Occult breast cancer (OBC) is a special type of breast cancer of an unknown primary origin. Early stage OBC is treated as stage II–III breast cancer. Currently, there are no models for predicting the survival outcomes. Hence, we aimed to evaluate the role of the positive lymph node ratio (PLNR) in OBC and further establish and validate a prognostic nomogram. Patients with stage T0N+M0 breast cancer were enrolled from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database. Univariate and multivariate Cox analyses were used to evaluate the effects of prognostic factors on breast-cancer-specific survival (BCSS), and a nomogram was established and validated for OBC. Overall, 843 patients were included, and the 5-year BCSS rate was 92.4%. Patients with a PLNR < 0.54 had better BCSS rates than those with a PLNR ≥ 0.54. The nomogram combined clinicopathological parameters, including the PLNR, pN stage, and estrogen receptor status, and showed a higher accuracy than the TNM staging system in predicting the BCSS. The patients could be stratified into different risk groups based on their prognostic scores. Patients in the low-risk subgroup showed an improved BCSS compared those in the high-risk subgroup. In conclusion, the PLNR is an independent prognostic factor for OBC. The PLNR-based nomogram has a better predictive ability than the TNM staging system and could be of great value for the treatment of OBC and prediction of its prognosis.
Esophageal Pressure Measurement in Acute Hypercapnic Respiratory Failure Due to Severe COPD Exacerbation Requiring NIV—A Pilot Safety Study
Authors: Steriade Alexandru Tudor , Gologanu Mihai , Bumbacea Roxana Silvia , Bogdan Stefan Nicolae , Bumbacea Dragos
Published: November 2022

Esophageal pressure (Pes) measurements could optimise ventilator parameters in acute respiratory failure (ARF) patients requiring noninvasive ventilation (NIV). Consequently, the objectives of our study were to evaluate the safety and accuracy of applying a Pes measuring protocol in ARF patients with AECOPD under NIV in our respiratory intermediate care unit (RICU). An observational cohort study was undertaken. The negative inspiratory swing of Pes (ΔPes) was measured: in an upright/supine position in the presence/absence of NIV at D1 (day of admission), D3 (3rd day of NIV), and DoD (day of discharge). A digital filter for artefact removal was developed. We included 15 patients. The maximum values for ∆Pes were recorded at admission (mean ∆Pes 23.2 cm H2O) in the supine position. ∆Pes decreased from D1 to D3 (p < 0.05), the change being BMI-dependent (p < 0.01). The addition of NIV decreased ∆Pes at D1 and D3 (p < 0.01). The reduction of ∆Pes was more significant in the supine position at D1 (8.8 cm H2O, p < 0.01). Under NIV, ∆Pes values remained higher in the supine versus upright position. Therefore, the measurement of Pes in AECOPD patients requiring NIV can be safely done in an RICU. Under NIV, ∆Pes reduction is most significant within the first 24 h of admission.
Renal Protection and Hemodynamic Improvement by Impella® Microaxial Pump in Patients with Cardiogenic Shock
Authors: Patsalis Nikolaos , Kreutz Julian , Chatzis Georgios , Syntila Styliani , Griewing Sebastian , Pirlet-Grant Carly , Schlegel Malte , Schieffer Bernhard , Markus Birgit
Published: November 2022

Acute kidney injury is one of the most frequent and prognostically relevant complications in cardiogenic shock. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the potential effect of the Impella® pump on hemodynamics and renal organ perfusion in patients with myocardial infarction complicating cardiogenic shock. Between January 2020 and February 2022 patients with infarct-related cardiogenic shock supported with the Impella® pump were included in this single-center prospective short-term study. Changes in hemodynamics on different levels of Impella® support were documented with invasive pulmonal arterial catheter. As far as renal function is concerned, renal perfusion was assessed by determining the renal resistive index (RRI) using Doppler sonography. A total of 50 patients were included in the analysis. The increase in the Impella® output by a mean of 1.0 L/min improved the cardiac index (2.7 ± 0.86 to 3.3 ± 1.1 p < 0.001) and increased central venous oxygen saturation (62.6 ± 11.8% to 67.4 ± 10.5% p < 0.001). On the other side, the systemic vascular resistance (1035 ± 514 N·s/m5 to 902 ± 371 N·s/m5p = 0.012) and the RRI were significantly reduced (0.736 ± 0.07 to 0.62 ± 0.07 p < 0.001). Furthermore, in the overall cohort, a baseline RRI ≥ 0.8 was associated with a higher frequency of renal replacement therapy (71% vs. 39% p = 0.04), whereas the consequent reduction of the RRI below 0.7 during Impella® support improved the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) during hospital stay (15 ± 3 days; 53 ± 16 mL/min to 83 ± 16 mL/min p = 0.04). Impella® support in patients with cardiogenic shock seems to improve hemodynamics and renal organ perfusion. The RRI, a well-known parameter for the early detection of acute kidney injury, can be directly influenced by the Impella® flow rate. Thus, a targeted control of the RRI by the Impella® pump could mediate renal organ protection.
Early Prediction of Adverse Pregnancy Outcome in Women with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, Antiphospholipid Syndrome, or Non-Criteria Obstetric Antiphospholipid Syndrome
Authors: Baños Núria , Castellanos Aleida , Barilaro Giuseppe , Figueras Francesc , Lledó Gema , Santana Marta , Espinosa Gerard
Published: November 2022

A prospectively study of pregnant women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), antiphospholipid syndrome, or non-criteria obstetric antiphospholipid syndrome was conducted to describe the characteristics of women followed in a referral unit and to derive a predictive tool for adverse pregnancy outcome (APO). Demographic characteristics, treatments, SLE activity, and flares were recorded. Laboratory data included a complete blood cell count, protein-to-creatinine urinary ratio (Pr/Cr ratio), complement, anti dsDNA, anti-SSA/Ro, anti-SSB/La, and antiphospholipid antibodies status. A stepwise regression was used to identify baseline characteristics available before pregnancy and during the 1st trimester that were most predictive of APO and to create the predictive model. A total of 217 pregnancies were included. One or more APO occurred in 45 (20.7%) women. A baseline model including non-Caucasian ethnicity (OR 2.78; 95% CI [1.16–6.62]), smoking (OR 4.43; 95% CI [1.74–11.29]), pregestational hypertension (OR 16.13; 95% CI [4.06–64.02]), and pregestational corticosteroids treatment OR 2.98; 95% CI [1.30–6.87]) yielded an AUC of 0.78 (95% CI, [0.70–0.86]). Among first-trimester parameters, only Pr/Cr ratio improved the model fit, but the predictive performance was not significantly improved (AUC of 0.78 vs. 0.81; p = 0.16). Better biomarkers need to be developed to efficiently stratify pregnant women with the most common autoimmune diseases.
3D Bioprinting of Smart Oxygen-Releasing Cartilage Scaffolds
Authors: Montesdeoca Caterine Yesenia Carrasco , Stocco Thiago Domingues , Marciano Fernanda Roberta , Webster Thomas J. , Lobo Anderson Oliveira
Published: November 2022

Three-dimensional bioprinting is a powerful technique for manufacturing improved engineered tissues. Three-dimensional bioprinted hydrogels have significantly advanced the medical field to repair cartilage tissue, allowing for such constructs to be loaded with different components, such as cells, nanoparticles, and/or drugs. Cartilage, as an avascular tissue, presents extreme difficulty in self-repair when it has been damaged. In this way, hydrogels with optimal chemical and physical properties have been researched to respond to external stimuli and release various bioactive agents to further promote a desired tissue response. For instance, methacryloyl gelatin (GelMA) is a type of modified hydrogel that allows for the encapsulation of cells, as well as oxygen-releasing nanoparticles that, in the presence of an aqueous medium and through controlled porosity and swelling, allow for internal and external environmental exchanges. This review explores the 3D bioprinting of hydrogels, with a particular focus on GelMA hydrogels, to repair cartilage tissue. Recent advances and future perspectives are described.
When Type 2 Processing Misfires: The Indiscriminate Use of Statistical Thinking about Reasoning Problems
Authors: Ferreira Mário B. , Soro Jerônimo C. , Reis Joana , Mata André , Thompson Valerie A.
Published: November 2022

Research on dual-process theories of judgment makes abundant use of reasoning problems that present a conflict between Type 1 intuitive responses and Type 2 rule-based responses. However, in many of these reasoning tasks, there is no way to discriminate between the adequate and inadequate use of rules based on logical or probabilistic principles. To experimentally discriminate between the two, we developed a new set of problems: rule-inadequate versions of standard base-rate problems (where base rates are made irrelevant). Across four experiments, we observed conflict sensitivity (measured in terms of response latencies and response confidence) in responses to standard base-rate problems but also in responses to rule-inadequate versions of these problems. This failure to discriminate between real and merely apparent (or spurious) conflict suggests that participants often misuse statistical information and draw conclusions based on irrelevant base rates. We conclude that inferring the sound use of statistical rules from normatively correct responses to standard conflict problems may be unwarranted when this kind of reasoning bias is not controlled for.
A Survey of Research Participants’ Privacy-Related Experiences and Willingness to Share Real-World Data with Researchers
Authors: Hendricks-Sturrup Rachele M. , Zhang Fang , Lu Christine Y.
Published: November 2022

Background: Real-world data (RWD) privacy is an increasingly complex topic within the scope of personalized medicine, as it implicates several sources of data. Objective: To assess how privacy-related experiences, when adjusted for age and education level, may shape adult research participants’ willingness to share various sources of real-world data with researchers. Methods: An electronic survey was conducted in April 2021 among adults (≥18 years of age) registered in ResearchMatch, a national health research registry. Descriptive analyses were conducted to assess survey participant demographics. Logistic regression was conducted to assess the association between participants’ five distinct privacy-related experiences and their willingness to share each of the 19 data sources with researchers, adjusting for education level and age range. Results: A total of 598 ResearchMatch adults were contacted and 402 completed the survey. Most respondents were over the age of 51 years (49% total) and held a master’s or bachelor’s degree (63% total). Over half of participants (54%) had their account accessed by someone without their permission. Almost half of participants (49%) reported the privacy of their personal information being violated. Analyses showed that, when adjusted for age range and education level, participants whose reputations were negatively affected as a result of information posted online were more likely to share electronic medical record data (OR = 2.074, 95% CI: 0.986–4.364) and genetic data (OR = 2.302, 95% CI: 0.894–5.93) versus those without this experience. Among participants who had an unpleasant experience as a result of giving out information online, those with some college/associates/trade school compared to those with a doctoral or other terminal degree were significantly more willing to share genetic data (OR = 1.064, 95% CI: 0.396–2.857). Across all privacy-related experiences, participants aged 18 to 30 were significantly more likely than those over 60 years to share music streaming data, ridesharing history data, and voting history data. Additionally, across all privacy-related experiences, those with a high school education were significantly more likely than those with a doctorate or other terminal degree to share credit card statement data. Conclusions: This study offers the first insights into how privacy-related experiences, adjusted for age range and education level, may shape ResearchMatch participants’ willingness to share several sources of real-world data sources with precision medicine researchers. Future work should further explore these insights.
Minced Cartilage Is a One-Step Cartilage Repair Procedure for Small Defects in the Knee—A Systematic-Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Frodl Andreas , Siegel Markus , Fuchs Andreas , Wagner Ferdinand C. , Schmal Hagen , Izadpanah Kaywan , Yilmaz Tayfun
Published: November 2022

Purpose: Approximately 60% of patients undergoing arthroscopy of the knee present with chondral defects. If left untreated, osteochondral lesions can trigger an early onset of osteoarthritis. Many cartilage repair techniques are mainly differentiated in techniques aiming for bone marrow stimulation, or cell-based methods. Cartilage repair can also be categorized in one- and two-stage procedures. Some two-stage procedures come with a high cost for scaffolds, extensive cell-processing, strict regulatory requirements, and limited logistical availability. Minced cartilage, however, is a one-stage procedure delivering promising results in short term follow-up, as noted in recent investigations. However, there is no available literature summarizing or synthesizing clinical data. The purpose of this study was to analyze and synthesize data from the latest literature in a meta-analysis of outcomes after the minced cartilage procedure and to compare its effectiveness to standard repair techniques. Methods: We conducted a systematic review searching the Cochrane, PubMed, and Ovid databases. Inclusion criteria were the modified Coleman methodology Score (mCMS) >60, cartilaginous knee-joint defects, and adult patients. Patient age < 18 years, biomechanical and animal studies were excluded. Relevant articles were reviewed independently by referring to title and abstract. In a systematic review, we compared three studies and 52 patients with a total of 63 lesions. Results: Analysis of Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) sub scores at 12 and 24 months showed a significant score increase in every sub score. Highest mean difference was seen in KOOS sport, lowest in KOOS symptoms (12 month: KOOS sport (Mean difference: 35.35 [28.16, 42.53]; p < 0.0001), lowest in KOOS symptoms (Mean difference: 20.12 [15.43, 24.80]; p < 0.0001)). A comparison of International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC ) scores visualized a significant score increase for both time points too ((12 month: pooled total mean: 73.00 ± 14.65; Mean difference: 34.33 [26.84, 41.82]; p < 0.00001) (24 month: pooled total mean: 77.64 ± 14.46; mean difference: 35.20 [39.49, 40.92]; p < 0.00001)). Conclusion: Due to no need for separate cell-processing, and thanks to being a one-step procedure, minced cartilage is a promising method for cartilage repair in small defect sizes (mean 2.77 cm2, range 1.3–4.7 cm2). However, the most recent evidence is scarce, and takes only results two years post-surgery into account. Summarized, minced cartilage presents nearly equal short-term improvement of clinical scores (IKDC, KOOS) compared to standard cartilage repair techniques.
Recreational Green Space Service in the Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macau Greater Bay Area: A Multiple Travel Modes Perspective
Authors: Weng Chen , Wang Jingyi , Li Chunming , Dong Rencai , Lv Chencan , Jiao Yaran , Zhang Yonglin
Published: November 2022

Recreational green space (RGS) offers the most intuitive place for urban residents to get in touch with nature. The service radiation of RGS is related to the travel mode, however, residents’ travel behavior has long been ignored in the study of RGS services. This paper considers the Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macau Greater Bay Area (GBA), uses multi-source data, refines the spatial distribution of residents, extracts and classifies the RGS into three categories (township (TRGS), country (CRGS), and urban (URGS)), and analyzes the spatial distribution of the three types of RGS. Using the travel isochrone, the RGS services coverage (including spatial and population coverage) in 11 cities within the GBA is defined by multiple travel modes. Finally, a comprehensive evaluation of the RGS services in the GBA is conducted based on the residents’ transportation choice willingness and recreational selection. The results showed that: (1) TRGSs are mainly distributed in the suburbs, URGSs are mainly concentrated in the mid-western and southern regions, and CRGSs are mostly concentrated in the center of the GBA. (2) For daily travel (15-min and 30-min travel modes), the coverage of the RGS services is unevenly distributed, while under the 60-min travel mode, the RGS services can almost fully cover the residents in the GBA (SPURGS > 99%). (3) The RGS service of the central cities (Hong Kong, Macau) is better than that of the edge cities (Zhaoqing, Jiangmen), and the different city types should adopt different RGS planning and management strategies. This study provides a reference for RGS refined planning and maintenance in mega-urban agglomerations.
Investigating the Impacts of Urbanization on Vegetation Net Primary Productivity: A Case Study of Chengdu–Chongqing Urban Agglomeration from the Perspective of Townships
Authors: Li Jianshu , Bi Mo , Wei Guoen
Published: November 2022

As an emerging national strategic urban agglomeration in China, the changing trend of vegetation net primary productivity (NPP) and the impact of the urbanization level (UL) on carbon cycle functions in the Chengdu–Chongqing urban agglomeration (CUA) have received increasing attention. Previous studies have largely overlooked externalities and the heterogeneity of urbanization effects, and urbanization has also been analyzed in isolation (with focus being on land and population urbanization). In this study, the spatial evolution of NPP was evaluated from 2000 to 2020 at the township level (3859) using multivariate remote sensing data and a comprehensive index (UL) that included population urbanization, land urbanization, and economic urbanization. Bivariate spatial autocorrelation, spatial Durbin models, and geographically weighted regression models were used to analyze the spatial externalities of urbanization impacts and assess the global and local effects. The results show that the region’s mean NPP increased by 177.25 g*c/m2 (annual growth of 1.59%), exhibiting a distribution of “low in the middle and high in the periphery” and low-value clustering along major traffic arteries and rivers. Low-value-NPP areas were mainly located in urban centers, while the high-level areas were in the mountainous region (in the southwest and southeast) and significantly expanded over time. Negative correlation clusters were the main clustering types between the UL and NPP; the “High-Low” negative correlation clusters accelerated outward from the urban centers of Chengdu and Chongqing. Overall, urbanization had negative direct and spillover effects on NPP, exhibiting spatial non-stationarity of the negative driving effect within the urban agglomeration. The results indicate the need to strengthen regional ecological joint governance and adopt more place-based urbanization optimization strategies. This study offers new insights to help to reduce the constraining effects of urbanization on vegetation productivity and ecological functions from the perspectives of population agglomeration, land expansion, and industrial construction.