bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association between occupational stress and subclinical depression in Chinese primary healthcare workers
Authors: Zhang Jiao , Xu Lingzhong , Qin Wenzhe , Xu Aijun
Published: November 2023

Background

Wellbeing of healthcare workers is crucial for the effective functioning of primary health systems. This study aimed to examine the association between occupational stress and subclinical depression among primary healthcare workers, and to establish the foundation for future preventive strategies.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted in Tai’an City, Shandong Province, China. Data were collected from 832 medical staff in primary health institutions using a structured self-administered questionnaire. The participants completed the Challenge and Hindrance-Related Self-Reported Stress (C-HSS) Scale and Patient Health Questionnaire-9. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was conducted to explore the relationship between occupational stress and subclinical depression among primary healthcare workers.

Results

The prevalence of subclinical depression among primary healthcare workers was 11.66%. Participants with subclinical depression have a significant higher level of occupational stress (including challenge-stress and hindrance-stress). Regression analysis result indicated that higher level of occupational stress was significantly associated with more severe subclinical depression, and the risk of subclinical depression remained after adjusting other covariates (OR = 4.57, 95%CI, 3.14–6.63). The association between challenge-stress and subclinical depression was not statistically significant when controlling for hindrance-stress. Subgroup analysis showed that male healthcare workers who perceived higher level of challenge stress were more likely to develop subclinical depression than female healthcare workers.

Conclusion

The level of subclinical depression among Chinese primary healthcare workers was high, and occupational stress especially hindrance stress may contribute to subclinical depression. Findings were also robust in subgroup analysis after adjusting for other covariates. These findings emphasize the importance of occupational stress psychosocial interventions to decrease the risk of developing depression among the primary healthcare workers.
Examining the relationship between non-suicidal self-injury and mental health among female Arab minority students: the role of identity conflict and acculturation stress
Authors: Meisler Sahar , Sleman Sheren , Orgler Michal , Tossman Inbal , Hamdan Sami
Published: November 2023

Background and objective

Research suggests that individuals from minority backgrounds, including immigrants and ethnic minorities, may be at a higher risk for non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI). The aim of the present research is to examine the relationship between non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) and identity conflict and acculturation stress, depression, and risk behaviors among female Arab minority students.

Methods

The sample analyzed consisted of 1,529 female Arab students (85.8% B.A. students, 14% M.A. students) aged 21–54 (M = 23, SD = 4.17). The participants completed self-reported questionnaires assessing NSSI engagement, identity conflict and acculturation stress, depression, and risky substance use behavior.

Results

As expected, we found a significant positive association between NSSI and identity crisis. In addition, an identity conflict and acculturation stress impact the effect of depression and risky substance use behaviors in engaging in self-injury. Namely, participants were more likely to engage in NSSI when they also experienced identity conflict and acculturation stress and exhibited depressive symptoms and tended to display risky substance use behavior.

Conclusion

These findings provide evidence that the relationship between depression, risky substance use behavior, and NSSI may be stronger among individuals who experience higher levels of identity conflict and acculturation stress. Implications for intervention and future research are briefly presented.
Collaboration of health and education sectors drives equity for children with complex disabilities in China
Authors: Jacobs Lisa , Gleason Deborah , Gissara Daniela , Congdon Nathan , Smith George , Xu Peter
Published: November 2023

Medical professionals often find it challenging to assess children having both complex disabilities and visual impairment, which may lead to excluding such children from educational programs and limiting their full participation in family and community activities. Identification and assessment of these children are essential to close this exclusion gap. A five-year project in Shanxi province, China, provided comprehensive training to eye health providers and educators as they learned to assess, identify, refer and serve children with visual impairments, both with and without complex disabilities. A team of teachers, vision and general healthcare providers worked to assess the vision of these children at schools, residential settings, and in homes throughout Shanxi. The project led to deep collaboration between Shanxi’s health and education sectors, and established replicable precedents for policy and system changes toward the inclusion of children with complex disabilities and visual impairment.
Psychobiological risk factors for insomnia and depressed mood among hospital female nurses working shifts
Authors: Bennaroch Kochav , Shochat Tamar
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Despite a vast body of knowledge on the associations between insomnia and depression, and although women and shift workers are at high risk for each of these conditions separately, common psychobiological risk factors for developing insomnia and depressed mood concomitantly in high-functioning shift-working female nurses have yet to be investigated within a comprehensive framework. This study examines the contribution of shift work (disruption of circadian rhythms), stress, analytical rumination, and morningness-eveningness on the development of insomnia and depressed mood among female hospital nurses.

Objectives

We sought to assess the severity and prevalence of insomnia symptoms and depressed mood among hospital shift-working compared with day-working nurses; to examine associations between psychobiological risk factors with insomnia and depressed mood; and to develop a conceptual psychobiological model to describe their co-occurrence among hospital nurses.

Methods

Using a cross-sectional design, we recruited female hospital nurses, shift workers (SW) and day workers (DW: only morning shifts), and assessed them for insomnia, depressed mood, stress, analytical rumination, and morningness-eveningness through validated self-administered questionnaires delivered online. Using structural equation modeling (SEM), we assessed common pathways between psychobiological factors affecting insomnia and depressed mood.

Results

448 nurses completed electronic questionnaires. SW nurses (n = 358) compared with DW nurses (n = 90) had significantly higher rates of insomnia and depressed mood. SW nurses also reported significantly higher severity of insomnia, depressed mood, stress, and a tendency to eveningness compared with DW nurses. A positive linear relationship was found between insomnia and depressed mood in both SW and DW nurses. SEM showed that shift work contributed directly to insomnia and indirectly to depressed mood. The overall model showed a good fit between the empirical and the conceptual psychobiological model proposed in the study [χ(1) = 0.16, p = 0.69, CFI = 0.99, RMSEA = 0.0001].

Discussion

We found that SW nurses who reported high levels of stress and eveningness are at significantly greater risk for both insomnia symptoms and depressed mood. Findings provide the groundwork in creating a conceptual psychobiological model to examine the co-occurrence of insomnia and depressed mood phenomena in hospital nurses. This research is an important first step toward the development of interventions aimed at improving nurses' health, wellbeing and quality of life by preventing the mental burden associated with insomnia and depressed mood.
A new approach to streamline obstructive sleep apnea therapy access using peripheral arterial tone-based home sleep test devices
Authors: Zou Ding , Vits Steven , Egea Carlos , Ehrsam-Tosi Daniela , Lavergne Florent , Azpiazu Mikel , Fietze Ingo
Published: November 2023

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a prevalent condition that negatively impacts cardiovascular, metabolic and mental health. A high proportion of individuals with OSA remain undiagnosed and incur significant healthcare costs. The gold standard OSA diagnostic is in-lab polysomnography, but this is costly and time-consuming. Home sleep apnea tests (HSATs), including cardiorespiratory polygraphy and peripheral artery tonometry technology, provide an alternative. Advances in HSAT technology include non-invasive, easy-to-use medical devices that could allow unobtrusive, accessible, multi-night, cost-effective diagnosis and management of sleep-disordered breathing. One type of these devices is based on determination of peripheral arterial tone, and use photoplethysmography signals from the finger (oxygen saturation, pulse wave amplitude and pulse rate). The devices contain algorithms that use these data to generate the traditional metrics required by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. They can be used to record sleep parameters over multiple nights at home, and can also provide information on total sleep time (TST) and sleep stages (including time spent in rapid eye movement sleep). The combination of objective measures (apnea-hypopnea index, oxygen desaturation index, respiratory disturbance index, TST) and subjective measures (symptoms and other patient-reported outcome measures) could facilitate the development of a personalized therapeutic plan for OSA patients. It is anticipated that the streamlined digital pathway facilitated by new peripheral artery tone-based technology could contribute to reducing the underdiagnosis of OSA, accelerating access to appropriate treatment, and the optimization of OSA therapy.
What Is Albedo and What Does It Have to Do With Global Warming?
Authors: Esters Leonie , Wirtz Pilar , Brückner Sylvia , Li Yidan , Kracheletz Magdalena
Published: November 2023

Albedo is the word to describe the amount sunlight that bounces, or reflects, off of the Earth. The concept of albedo is a very important one in discussions of Earth’s climate, because it relates to how much heat is absorbed by various parts of the Earth. Earth’s albedo is influenced by the physical properties of the planet’s various surfaces. Some surfaces, such as ice and snow, reflect more of the sunlight and absorb less heat than do surfaces like oceans and forests. However, the physical properties of Earth’s surfaces can change, both naturally and due to human activities. To protect Earth and its inhabitants from global warming, there may be ways we can engineer Earth’s albedo so that more of the sun’s heat is reflected away from our planet, but these theories require more research. In this article, we will explain what albedo is, how Earth’s albedo can change, and how albedo influences climate.
A Novel Cooling Design for an Agonistic–Antagonistic SMA Tendon-Driven Actuator
Authors: Liu Renke , Zhang Shuyao , Baba Yusuke , Sawada Hideyuki
Published: November 2023

Shape memory alloys (SMAs) exhibit a unique property that undergoes deformation in response to temperature variation. This characteristic can be utilized via the application of a filiform SMA wire to tendon-driven robotic actuators for biomimetic joint movements. However, due to the inefficiencies in heat dissipation, conventional SMA tendon-driven actuators are characterized by their lower relaxation speeds than other actuators. This paper proposes a novel cooling design for an SMA tendon-driven actuator using thin-fin heat sinks based on a multi-layer wrapped SMA tendon design. In addition, the electric circuit and the controller are refined. Prototype devices are constructed to validate the performance of SMA-based actuators under PID control. The results indicate that the proposed design exceeds previous models in terms of relaxation performance by up to 5.8 times while also being able to stabilize at a target angle within 0.5 s under control.
The Gender Pay Gap and Irish Higher Education: University of Galway, a Case Study
Authors: Loftus Laura , Madden Niall , Scott P. Anne , Cooke Aoife , McNicholas Nicola
Published: November 2023

This article presents the first comprehensive, multi-year study of the Gender Pay Gap (GPG) for a single higher education institution in Ireland. University of Galway has reported on its GPG annually since 2018. It identifies the key findings of these reports, focusing particularly on the 2022 report, while also highlighting trends and learnings from other years’ data. Staff cohorts are disaggregated, and details on the mean and median GPG are provided for each. The major contributors to the GPG at University of Galway are identified. These contributors also apply to the Irish Higher Education system more broadly. This study reveals that the mean GPG at University of Galway is driven by academic grades and the median GPG is driven by Professional Managerial and Support Service Staff grades, and that long-term sustained interventions will be required to narrow the gender pay gap at University of Galway.
A Real-Time and Optimal Hypersonic Entry Guidance Method Using Inverse Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Su Linfeng , Wang Jinbo , Chen Hongbo
Published: November 2023

The mission of hypersonic vehicles faces the problem of highly nonlinear dynamics and complex environments, which presents challenges to the intelligent level and real-time performance of onboard guidance algorithms. In this paper, inverse reinforcement learning is used to address the hypersonic entry guidance problem. The state-control sample pairs and state-rewards sample pairs obtained by interacting with hypersonic entry dynamics are used to train the neural network by applying the distributed proximal policy optimization method. To overcome the sparse reward problem in the hypersonic entry problem, a novel reward function combined with a sophisticated discriminator network is designed to generate dense optimal rewards continuously, which is the main contribution of this paper. The optimized guidance methodology can achieve good terminal accuracy and high success rates with a small number of trajectories as datasets while satisfying heating rate, overload, and dynamic pressure constraints. The proposed guidance method is employed for two typical hypersonic entry vehicles (Common Aero Vehicle-Hypersonic and Reusable Launch Vehicle) to demonstrate the feasibility and potential. Numerical simulation results validate the real-time performance and optimality of the proposed method and indicate its suitability for onboard applications in the hypersonic entry flight.
Cross Sectional Anatomy and Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Juvenile Atlantic Puffin Head (Aves, Alcidae, Fratercula arctica)
Authors: Fumero-Hernández Marcos , Encinoso Mario , Melian Ayose , Nuez Himar Artiles , Salman Doaa , Jaber José Raduan
Published: November 2023

The Atlantic puffin is a medium-sized seabird with black and white plumage and orange feet. It is distributed mainly along the northern Atlantic Ocean, and due, among other reasons, to human activities, it is in a threatened situation and classified as a vulnerable species according to the International Union of Conservation of Nature (IUCN). In this study, we used a total of 20 carcasses of juvenile Atlantic puffins to perform MRI, as well as anatomical cross-sections. Thus, an adequate description of the head was made, providing valuable information that could be helpful as a diagnostic tool for veterinary clinicians, who increasingly treat these birds in zoos, rehabilitation centers, and even in the wild.
Temperature-Dependent Food Consumption Rates of the Sea Urchin Mesocentrotus nudus and Top Shell Turbo sazae: Potential Impacts on Seaweed Beds
Authors: Seo Jaehwan , Koo Bon Joo
Published: November 2023

In Korea, the expansion of barren ground and a shift in macrograzer habitats due to increasing water temperatures associated with climate change are becoming increasingly problematic. This study assessed the potential effects of the sea urchin Mesocentrotus nudus and top shell Turbo sazae on seaweed beds by examining changes in their food consumption rates in response to changes in temperature. The food consumption rates of kelp (Saccharina japonica) for both species were estimated at 5 °C, 10 °C, 15 °C, 20 °C, and 25 °C in laboratory experiments. The rate for M. nudus increased with increasing water temperature, with the highest rate of 0.001 g g−1 d−1 at 15 °C and 20 °C, and the lowest at 25 °C, which killed some individual sea urchins. The rate for T. sazae also increased with increasing water temperature, with the highest being 0.087 g g−1 d−1 at 25 °C and the lowest being at 5 °C. T. sazae had a higher food consumption rate than M. nudus at all temperatures; as water temperature increased, the difference between species increased, with the largest difference occurring at 25 °C. These findings indicate that as water temperature increases, T. sazae places greater feeding pressure on macroalgae than M. nudus.
Deformation and Stress Analysis of Pile-Supported Immersed Tunnels under Seismic Loads
Authors: Zhuang Yan , Fan Hu , Hu Shunlei , Chen Zhi
Published: November 2023

The stress and deformation of pile-supported immersed tunnels under seismic loads is a critical issue in tunnel design. This paper utilizes ABAQUS (version 2020) finite element software to analyze the seismic load response of the sand compaction pile-immersed tunnel–seawater pressure (SIS) system, which is verified by a physical model. The study shows that the suppression effect of the seawater on the vertical frequency of the tunnel increases with depth. When the replacement rate of the piled foundation reaches 50%, the deformation of the tunnel “H-shaped” structures increases, which also changes the vertical frequency of the tunnel. However, the presence of the suppression effect causes resonance injury at the far end of the tunnel from the earthquake source, resulting in a shift of the peak stress point. It was also found that seawater pressure affects the resistance–deflection (p-y) at the tip of the pile more than at the end of the pile. The slenderness ratio (γ) of the pile affects the p-y value at the end of the pile more than at the tip of the pile. The connection between the piled foundation and the tunnel is most stable when γ is in the range of 9.25 to 15.
Evaluating the Relationship between Surrogate Safety Measures and Traffic Event Severity in Terms of Human Perception of Danger: A Perspective under Indian Traffic Conditions
Authors: Diwakar Priyanka , Landge Vishrut S. , Jain Udit
Published: November 2023

The current study aimed to develop a relationship between surrogate safety indicators and human judgement of severity. It has been demonstrated that human observers frequently display excellent agreement when asked to assess traffic incidents by their level of danger. Therefore, this research examines, in depth, how surrogate safety indicators might be used to represent human judgement of the severity of traffic incidents. This study analyzed 1141 traffic incidences of various vehicle categories according to their behavior during an interaction. Furthermore, ordinal logistic regression was used to develop a model for evaluating the most significant objective indicators relevant to people’s perceptions of danger. The findings indicated that the most crucial data for determining the severity of a traffic event is found in its earliest conditions, which are defined as the beginning of an evasive action. Moreover, factors affecting both closeness and collision consequences are significant and should be included in severity metrics.
Landscape Ecological Risk Assessment and Zoning Control Based on Ecosystem Service Value: Taking Sichuan Province as an Example
Authors: Jiang Zhuoting , Gan Xiaoyu , Liu Jie , Bi Xinyuan , Kang Ao , Zhou Bo
Published: November 2023

The escalation of urbanization in Sichuan Province has resulted in irrational land use and excessive resource exploitation. These developments have consequently diminished the functionality of ecosystem services and exacerbated landscape fragmentation in the region. These challenges pose significant threats to the ecological security of the area. In this study, we computed the ecosystem service value and the landscape ecological risk index of Sichuan Province from 2005 to 2018. We analyzed the spatial autocorrelation between the ecosystem service value and the landscape ecological risk index, constructing a framework for landscape ecological risk assessment and zoning control based on ecosystem service value. The results show the following: (1) Between 2005 and 2018, the total value of ecosystem services in Sichuan Province increased from CNY 10,261.17 × 108 to CNY 10,310.43 × 108, with forest land and grassland being the primary contributors to the ESV. (2) High- and higher-risk areas within the landscape ecology of Sichuan Province are expanding, forming a pattern of high-level risk concentration from west to east. (3) There exists a negative correlation between the ecosystem service value and the landscape ecological risk index in Sichuan Province. (4) In the ecological conservation zone, the principle of low-impact development must be upheld. In the ecological cultivation zone, adjusting the proportion of land use types is necessary to enhance the rationality of the land use structure. The ecological agricultural zone should fully utilize the advantages of agriculture, while the ecological improvement zone requires focused attention to ecological restoration and land remediation.
Research on Propagation Characteristics of Tire Cavity Resonance Noise in the Automobile Suspension
Authors: Hu Xiaojun , Liu Xiandong , Shan Yingchun , He Tian
Published: November 2023

Tire cavity resonance noise (TCRN) is one of main contributors to vehicle interior noise, which has long been a concern in the automotive industry and academia. As suspension is crucial for the propagation of TCRN energy into the vehicle, the propagation characteristics of energy in automobile suspension is studied in this research. Firstly, the finite element model of a McPherson suspension system connected to an aluminum alloy wheel with a Y-shaped spoke was established. Then, a modal analysis and response calculations of the McPherson suspension system connected to the aluminum alloy wheel with a Y-shaped spoke were carried out. Finally, the propagation characteristics of TCRN in the McPherson suspension system connected to the aluminum alloy wheel with a Y-shaped spoke were studied and analyzed by the power flow method under different working conditions. The power flow output via the lower arm front bushing was the largest, while the output via the rear bushing was the smallest in the Y-spoke aluminum alloy wheel and suspension system. The areas in the suspension system with high stress are located at the steering knuckle, lower swing arm, and shock absorber. Therefore, study of the propagation characteristics can provide a basis for a McPherson suspension system design.
Design and Optimization of Low Impact Shift Control Strategy for Aviation Transmission Power System Based on Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Wu Jiangming , Yan Hongzhi , Zheng Zhibin , Li Xiaokang
Published: November 2023

The utilization of a variable-speed power system significantly improves the forward flight speed and cruising range of the helicopter. Nevertheless, the shock of speed and torque during the shift process brings stability and safety problems that cannot be ignored. Thus, swift and stable shift control is a key issue in the research on aviation power systems. This study focuses on the design and optimization of low-impact shift control strategies for a variable-speed power system, which involves multiple control variables, long adjustment times, and uncontrollable risks due to the nonsteady state. A comprehensive power system model that integrates the engine, a two-speed dual-clutch transmission system, and the main rotor was proposed. By selecting the engine fuel flow, friction clutch hydraulic pressure, and rotor pitch angle as input signals, regression fitting models between the input signals’ starting time points and speed or torque shock were obtained using Response Surface Methodology (RMS). The interaction effect of multiple time series was analyzed, and four kinds of low-impact nonlinear programming multi-objective optimized models for speed or torque are proposed. The results indicate that the P values of the RMS fitting models at upshift and downshift are less than 0.0001 and 0.05, respectively, which are highly significant and can effectively predict the shift dynamic response; under the optimized upshift and downshift control strategy, the speed and torque shock are reduced by 5–10%.
L-rCBF: Learning-Based Key–Value Data Structure for Dynamic Data Processing
Authors: Lee Yejee , Byun Hayoung
Published: November 2023

Learning-based data structures, such as a learned Bloom filter and a learned functional Bloom filter (L-FBF), have recently been proposed to replace traditional structures. However, using these structures for dynamic data processing is difficult because a specific element cannot be deleted from a trained model. A counting Bloom filter with return values (rCBF) is a more efficient key–value structure than a functional Bloom filter (FBF) for repetitive insertions and deletions. In this study, we propose a learned rCBF (L-rCBF) comprising a model, a Bloom filter, and an rCBF and the deletion algorithm for the L-rCBF. To delete a specific element from the L-rCBF, two different operations are performed according to four different cases. In the experiments, the proposed L-rCBF is compared with a single rCBF and an L-FBF in terms of undeletables and search failures, and this comparison is conducted using two different models. In addition, we present a theoretical analysis of the rCBF with experimental results to demonstrate that a structure with an rCBF is more suitable for dynamic data than a structure with an FBF.
ORACLES Campaign, September 2016: Inversion of HSRL-2 Observations with Regularization Algorithm into Particle Microphysical Parameters and Comparison to Airborne In-Situ Data
Authors: Kolgotin Alexei , Müller Detlef , Korenskiy Mikhail , Veselovskii Igor
Published: November 2023

We present microphysical properties of pollution layers observed with NASA Langley Research Center’s airborne high-spectral-Resolution lidar (HSRL-2). The data obtained by HSRL-2 consist of vertical profiles of three backscatter coefficients (β) taken at 355, 532 and 1064 nm and two extinction coefficients (α) measured at 355 and 532 nm. In our study we (1) inverted the 3β + 2α data into particle size distributions with a regularization algorithm, and subsequently computed (2) number concentration and (3) single-scattering albedo for four measurement profiles. We carried out a first comparison to the same particle characteristics measured with airborne in-situ instruments. The in-situ instruments were flown aboard the P-3B aircraft, which followed the flight track of the aircraft ER-2 that carried HSRL-2. We found good agreement of the co-located (space and time) data products, with a degree of reliability reaching 90%. A more detailed study on a larger dataset needs to be carried out in future work to (a) obtain important correction factors, (b) study the influence of different light-scattering models on the inversion results, and (c) identify sources of retrieval and measurement uncertainties.
Adaptation of Deep Network in Transfer Learning for Estimating State of Health in Electric Vehicles during Operation
Authors: Zheng Wenbin , Zhou Xinyu , Bai Chenyu , Zhou Di , Fu Ping
Published: November 2023

Battery state of health (SOH) is a significant metric for evaluating battery life and predicting battery safety. Currently, SOH research is largely based on laboratory data, with a dearth of research on electric vehicle (EV) operating data. Due to the difficulty in obtaining complete charge data under EV operating conditions, this study presents a SOH estimation method utilizing deep network adaptation. First, a data-driven approach is employed to extract voltage, current, state of charge (SOC), and incremental capacity (IC) data features. To compensate for the lack of aging information in the EV operation data domain, transfer learning is employed to construct the SOH estimation model. Additionally, to resolve inconsistent data distribution between the source laboratory battery data domain and the target EV operation data domain, an adaptive layer is added to the network, and adaptation of deep network (ADN) is utilized to enhance the model’s performance. Finally, the model is validated using electric bus operational data. Results indicate that this model’s average Mean Absolute Error (MAE) is less than 3.0%, and, compared to support vector machine (SVM) regression and Gaussian Process Regression (GPR) algorithms, the MAE is reduced by 27.7% and 38.4%, respectively.
A Comprehensive Review of Computer-Aided Models for Breast Cancer Diagnosis Using Histopathology Images
Authors: Labrada Alberto , Barkana Buket D.
Published: November 2023

Breast cancer is the second most common cancer in women who are mainly middle-aged and older. The American Cancer Society reported that the average risk of developing breast cancer sometime in their life is about 13%, and this incident rate has increased by 0.5% per year in recent years. A biopsy is done when screening tests and imaging results show suspicious breast changes. Advancements in computer-aided system capabilities and performance have fueled research using histopathology images in cancer diagnosis. Advances in machine learning and deep neural networks have tremendously increased the number of studies developing computerized detection and classification models. The dataset-dependent nature and trial-and-error approach of the deep networks’ performance produced varying results in the literature. This work comprehensively reviews the studies published between 2010 and 2022 regarding commonly used public-domain datasets and methodologies used in preprocessing, segmentation, feature engineering, machine-learning approaches, classifiers, and performance metrics.
A Novel Registration Method for a Mixed Reality Navigation System Based on a Laser Crosshair Simulator: A Technical Note
Authors: Qi Ziyu , Bopp Miriam H. A. , Nimsky Christopher , Chen Xiaolei , Xu Xinghua , Wang Qun , Gan Zhichao , Zhang Shiyu , Wang Jingyue , Jin Haitao , Zhang Jiashu
Published: November 2023

Mixed Reality Navigation (MRN) is pivotal in augmented reality-assisted intelligent neurosurgical interventions. However, existing MRN registration methods face challenges in concurrently achieving low user dependency, high accuracy, and clinical applicability. This study proposes and evaluates a novel registration method based on a laser crosshair simulator, evaluating its feasibility and accuracy. A novel registration method employing a laser crosshair simulator was introduced, designed to replicate the scanner frame’s position on the patient. The system autonomously calculates the transformation, mapping coordinates from the tracking space to the reference image space. A mathematical model and workflow for registration were designed, and a Universal Windows Platform (UWP) application was developed on HoloLens-2. Finally, a head phantom was used to measure the system’s target registration error (TRE). The proposed method was successfully implemented, obviating the need for user interactions with virtual objects during the registration process. Regarding accuracy, the average deviation was 3.7 ± 1.7 mm. This method shows encouraging results in efficiency and intuitiveness and marks a valuable advancement in low-cost, easy-to-use MRN systems. The potential for enhancing accuracy and adaptability in intervention procedures positions this approach as promising for improving surgical outcomes.
Altered Osteogenic Differentiation in Mesenchymal Stem Cells Isolated from Compact Bone of Chicken Treated with Varying Doses of Lipopolysaccharides
Authors: Choppa Venkata Sesha Reddy , Liu Guanchen , Tompkins Yuguo Hou , Kim Woo Kyun
Published: November 2023

Persistent inflammation biologically alters signaling molecules and ultimately affects osteogenic differentiation, including in modern-day broilers with unique physiology. Lipopolysaccharides (LPS) are Gram-negative bacterial components that activate cells via transmembrane receptor activation and other molecules. Previous studies have shown several pathways associated with osteogenic inductive ability, but the pathway has yet to be deciphered, and data related to its dose-dependent effect are limited. Primary mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) were isolated from the bones of day-old broiler chickens, and the current study focused on the dose-dependent variation (3.125 micrograms/mL to 50 micrograms/mL) in osteogenic differentiation and the associated biomarkers in primary MSCs. The doses in this study were determined using a cell viability (MTT) assay. The study revealed that osteogenic differentiation varied with dose, and the cells exposed to higher doses of LPS were viable but lacked differentiating ability. However, this effect became transient with lower doses, and this phenotypic character was observed with differential staining methods like Alizarin Red, Von Kossa, and alkaline phosphatase. The data from this study revealed that LPS at varying doses had a varying effect on osteogenic differentiation via several pathways acting simultaneously during bone development.
Detecting Structural Changes in the Choroidal Layer of the Eye in Neurodegenerative Disease Patients through Optical Coherence Tomography Image Processing
Authors: Otin Sofia , Ávila Francisco J. , Mallen Victor , Garcia-Martin Elena
Published: November 2023

Purpose: To evaluate alterations of the choroid in patients with a neurodegenerative disease versus healthy controls, a custom algorithm based on superpixel segmentation was used. Design: A cross-sectional study was conducted on data obtained in a previous cohort study. Subjects: Swept-source optical coherence tomography (OCT) B-scan images obtained using a Triton (Topcon, Japan) device were compiled according to current OSCAR IB and APOSTEL OCT image quality criteria. Images were included from three cohorts: multiple sclerosis (MS) patients, Parkinson disease (PD) patients, and healthy subjects. Only patients with early-stage MS and PD were included. Methods: In total, 104 OCT B-scan images were processed using a custom superpixel segmentation (SpS) algorithm to detect boundary limits in the choroidal layer and the optical properties of the image. The algorithm groups pixels with similar structural properties to generate clusters with similar meaningful properties. Main outcomes: SpS selects and groups the superpixels in a segmented choroidal area, computing the choroidal optical image density (COID), measured as the standard mean gray level, and the total choroidal area (CA), measured as px2. Results: The CA and choroidal density (CD) were significantly reduced in the two neurodegenerative disease groups (higher in PD than in MS) versus the healthy subjects (p < 0.001); choroidal area was also significantly reduced in the MS group versus the healthy subjects. The COID increased significantly in the PD patients versus the MS patients and in the MS patients versus the healthy controls (p < 0.001). Conclusions: The SpS algorithm detected choroidal tissue boundary limits and differences optical density in MS and PD patients versus healthy controls. The application of the SpS algorithm to OCT images potentially acts as a non-invasive biomarker for the early diagnosis of MS and PD.
Resistance Modulation of Individual and Polymicrobial Culture of S. aureus and E. coli through Nanoparticle-Coupled Antibiotics
Authors: Zia Sana , Peng Song , Bashir Arslan , Kausar Tasleem , Khan Shanza Rauf , Muneer Afshan , Nawaz Attia , Alnajjar Lina I. , Saeed Mohd , Alshammari Nawaf , Aqib Amjad Islam , Li Kun
Published: November 2023

Polymicrobial mastitis is now becoming very common in dairy animals, resulting in exaggerated resistance to multiple antibiotics. The current study was executed to find drug responses in individual and mixed Culture of Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli isolated from milk samples, as well as to evaluate the antibacterial potential of tungsten oxide nanoparticles. These isolates (alone and in mixed culture) were further processed for their responses to antibiotics using the disc diffusion method. On the other hand, tungsten oxide WO3 (W) nanoparticles coupled with antibiotics (ampicillin, A, and oxytetracycline, O) were prepared through the chemical method and characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and UV-visible techniques. The preparations consisting of nanoparticles alone (W) and coupled with ampicillin (WA) and oxytetracycline (WO) were tested against individual and mixed Culture through the well diffusion and broth microdilution methods. The findings of the current study showed the highest resistance in E. coli was against penicillin (60%) and ampicillin (50%), while amikacin, erythromycin, ciprofloxacin, and oxytetracycline were the most effective antibiotics. S. aureus showed the highest resistance against penicillin (50%), oxytetracycline (40%), and ciprofloxacin (40%), while, except for ampicillin, the sensitive strains of S. aureus were in the range of 40–60% against the rest of antibiotics. The highest zones of inhibition (ZOI) against mixed Culture were shown by imipenem and ampicillin, whereas the highest percentage decrease in ZOI was noted in cases of ciprofloxacin (−240%) and gentamicin (−119.4%) in comparison to individual Culture of S. aureus and E. coli. It was noteworthy that the increase in ZOI was not more than 38% against mixed Culture as compared to the individual Culture. On the other hand, there was a significant reduction in the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of nanoparticle-coupled antibiotics compared to nanoparticles alone for individual and mixed-culture bacteria, while MICs in the case of mixed Culture remained consistently high throughout the trial. This study therefore concluded that diverse drug resistance was present in both individual and mixed-culture bacteria, whereas the application of tungsten oxide nanoparticle-coupled antibiotics proved to be an effective candidate in reversing the drug resistance in bacterial strains.
The Effect of Evogliptin Tartrate on Controlling Inflammatory Pain
Authors: Cho Pyung Goo , Jang Jun Ho , Ko Sukjin , Shin Dong Ah , Chung Seungsoo , Chang Min Cheol
Published: November 2023

Background: Evogliptin tartrate inhibits dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4), boosting glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) secretion and improving insulin release and glucose tolerance, while also exerting anti-inflammatory effects. We investigated its anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. Methods: Forty male Sprague Dawley rats were divided into (N = 10 in each): (1) naïve, (2) complete Freund’s adjuvant (CFA) inflammation + evogliptin tartrate (once for 10 mg/kg) (CFAE), (3) CFA + vehicle (same volume with normal saline with evogliptin tartrate/once) (CFAV), and (4) CFA + indomethacin (5 mg/mL/kg/1 time) (CFAI) groups. CFA was injected subcutaneously into rat plantar regions, and medications (evogliptin tartrate, vehicle, and indomethacin) were administered orally for 5 days. Post treatment, blood from the heart and plantar inflammatory tissue were collected to assess inflammatory cytokines. Evogliptin tartrate effects on controlling inflammation and pain were evaluated by measuring rat plantar paw thickness, paw withdrawal threshold, dorsal root ganglion (DRG) resting membrane potential, DRG action potential firing, and cytokine (TNF-α and IL-1β) levels. Results: Compared with the naïve group, plantar paw thickness, cytokine (TNF-α and IL-1β) levels, DRG resting membrane potential, and DRG action potential firing increased, whereas the paw withdrawal threshold decreased in all CFA groups. However, CFAE and CFAI rats showed recovery. The degree of CFAE recovery resembled that observed in the CFAI group. Conclusions: Evogliptin tartrate mirrored the anti-inflammatory pain relief of indomethacin. We aim to broaden its use as an anti-inflammatory drug or pain relief drug.
Research Progress of Indole Alkaloids: Targeting MAP Kinase Signaling Pathways in Cancer Treatment
Authors: Al Amin Md. , Emran Talha Bin , Khan Jishan , Zehravi Mehrukh , Sharma Indu , Patil Anasuya , Gupta Jeetendra Kumar , Jeslin D. , Krishnan Karthickeyan , Das Rajib , Nainu Firzan , Ahmad Irfan , Wilairatana Polrat
Published: November 2023

Cancer is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in people throughout the world. There are many signaling pathways associated with cancerous diseases, from which the Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway performs a significant role in this regard. Apoptosis and proliferation are correlated with MAPK signaling pathways. Plenty of experimental investigations were carried out to assess the role of indole alkaloids in MAPK-mediated cancerous diseases. Previous reports established that indole alkaloids, such as vincristine and evodiamine are useful small molecules in cancer treatment via the MAPK signaling system. Indole alkaloids have the anticancer potential through different pathways. Vincristine and evodiamine are naturally occurring indole alkaloids that have strong anticancer properties. Additionally, much research is ongoing or completed with molecules belonging to this group. The current review aims to evaluate how indole alkaloids affect the MAPK signaling pathway in cancer treatment. Additionally, we focused on the advancement in the role of indole alkaloids, with the intention of modifying the MAPK signaling pathways to investigate potential new anticancer small molecules. Furthermore, clinical trials with indole alkaloids in cancer treatment are also highlighted.
Thinking (Metastasis) outside the (Primary Tumor) Box
Authors: Jiang Zhe , Ju Young-Jun , Ali Amjad , Chung Philip E. D. , Wang Dong-Yu , Liu Jeff C. , Li Huiqin , Vorobieva Ioulia , Mwewa Ethel , Ghanbari-Azarnier Ronak , Shrestha Mariusz , Ben-David Yaacov , Zacksenhaus Eldad
Published: November 2023

The metastasis of tumor cells into vital organs is a major cause of death from diverse types of malignancies [...]
Nidogen-1/NID1 Function and Regulation during Progression and Metastasis of Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Rokavec Matjaz , Jaeckel Stephanie , Hermeking Heiko
Published: November 2023

We have previously shown that the extracellular matrix and basement membrane protein Nidogen1 (NID1) is secreted by more malignant, mesenchymal-like CRC cells and induces the epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) and promotes the migration and invasion of less malignant, epithelial-like CRC cells. Here, we performed a comprehensive bioinformatics analysis of multiple datasets derived from CRC patients and showed that elevated expression of NID1 and the genes ITGA3, ITGB1, and ITGAV, which encode NID1 receptors, is associated with poor prognosis and advanced tumor stage. Accordingly, the expression of NID1, ITGA3, ITGB1, and ITGAV was associated with an EMT signature, which included SNAIL/SNAI1, an EMT-inducing transcription factor. In CRC cells, ectopic SNAIL expression induced NID1 and SNAIL occupancy was detected at an E-box upstream of the NID1 transcription start site. Therefore, NID1 represents a direct target of SNAIL. Ectopic expression of NID1 or treatment with NID1-containing medium endowed non-metastatic CRC cells with the capacity to form lung metastases after xenotransplantation into mice. Suppression of the NID1 receptor ITGAV decreased cell viability, particularly in CMS/consensus molecular subtype 4 CRC cells. Taken together, our results show that NID1 is a direct target of EMT-TF SNAIL and is associated with and promotes CRC progression and metastasis. Furthermore, the NID1 receptor ITGAV represents a candidate therapeutic target in CMS4 colorectal tumors.
Flexible Resources Key to Neighborhood Resilience for Children: A Scoping Review
Authors: Beese Shawna , Drumm Kailie , Wells-Yoakum Kayla , Postma Julie , Graves Janessa M.
Published: November 2023

Neighborhoods have been the focus of health researchers seeking to develop upstream strategies to mitigate downstream disease development. In recent years, neighborhoods have become a primary target in efforts to promote health and resilience following deleterious social conditions such as the climate crisis, extreme weather events, the global pandemic, and supply chain disruptions. Children are often the most vulnerable populations after experiencing unexpected shocks. To examine and describe conceptually the construct of Neighborhood Resilience, we conducted a comprehensive scoping review using the terms (“resilience” or “resiliency” or “resilient”) AND (“neighborhood”), utilizing MEDLINE (through PubMed) and CINAHL (through EBSCOhost) databases, to assess overall neighborhood themes that impact resilience. A total of 57 articles were extracted that met inclusion criteria. Extracted characteristics included study purpose, country of origin, key findings, environmental protective/risk factors. The analysis revealed a positive relationship between neighborhood resource density, neighborhood resiliency, and individual resiliency. This study reports the finding for studies with a population focus of pre-school age and school age children (1.5–18 years of age). Broadly, we identified that the primary goals regarding neighborhood resilience for childhood can be conceptualized as all activities and resources that (a) prevent trauma during childhood development and/or (b) mitigate or heal childhood trauma once it has occurred. This goal conceptually encompasses antecedents that increase protective factors and reduces risk factors for children and their families. This comprehensive look at the literature showed that a neighborhood’s ability to build, promote, and maintain resiliency is often largely dependent on the flexible resources (i.e., knowledge, money, power, prestige, and beneficial social connections) that are available.
Creating Location-Based Augmented Reality Games and Immersive Experiences for Touristic Destination Marketing and Education
Authors: Kleftodimos Alexandros , Evagelou Athanasios , Gkoutzios Stefanos , Matsiola Maria , Vrigkas Michalis , Yannacopoulou Anastasia , Triantafillidou Amalia , Lappas Georgios
Published: November 2023

The aim of this paper is to present an approach that utilizes several mixed reality technologies for touristic promotion and education. More specifically, mixed reality applications and games were created to promote the mountainous areas of Western Macedonia, Greece, and to educate visitors on various aspects of these destinations, such as their history and cultural heritage. Location-based augmented reality (AR) games were designed to guide the users to visit and explore the destinations, get informed, gather points and prizes by accomplishing specific tasks, and meet virtual characters that tell stories. Furthermore, an immersive lab was established to inform visitors about the region of interest through mixed reality content designed for entertainment and education. The lab visitors can experience content and games through virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) wearable devices. Likewise, 3D content can be viewed through special stereoscopic monitors. An evaluation of the lab experience was performed with a sample of 82 visitors who positively evaluated features of the immersive experience such as the level of satisfaction, immersion, educational usefulness, the intention to visit the mountainous destinations of Western Macedonia, intention to revisit the lab, and intention to recommend the experience to others.