bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How Does the Corrected Exhalyzer Software Change the Predictive Value of LCI in Pulmonary Exacerbations in Children with Cystic Fibrosis?
Authors: Wojsyk-Banaszak Irena , Stachowiak Zuzanna , Więckowska Barbara , Andrzejewska Marta , Tąpolska-Jóźwiak Katarzyna , Szczepankiewicz Aleksandra , Sobkowiak Paulina , Bręborowicz Anna
Published: July 2023

Aim: Recently, the most commonly used for multiple breath washout device, the Exhalyzer D, has been shown to overestimate lung clearance index (LCI) results due to a software error. Our study aimed to compare the predictive values of LCI in the CF pulmonary exacerbations (PE) calculated with the updated (3.3.1) and the previous (3.2.1) version of the Spiroware software. Materials and Methods: The measurements were performed during 259 visits in CF pediatric patients. We used 39ΔPE pairs (PE preceded by stable visit) and 138ΔS pairs (stable visit preceded by stable visit) to compare the LCI changes during PE. The areas under the receiver operating curves (AUCROC) and odds ratios were calculated based on the differences between ΔPEs and ΔSs. The exacerbation risk was estimated using a logistic regression model with generalized estimating equations (GEE). Results: There were statistically significant differences in LCI 2.5% median values measured using the two versions of the software in the stable condition but not during PE. The AUCROC for changes between the two consecutive visits for LCI did not change significantly using the updated Spiroware software. Conclusions: Despite the lower median values, using the recalculated LCI values does not influence the diagnostic accuracy of this parameter in CF PE.
Three-Dimensional Enlow’s Counterpart Analysis: Neutral Track
Authors: Peluso Antonino , Falone Giulia , Pipitone Rossana , Moscagiuri Francesco , Caroccia Francesco , D’Attilio Michele
Published: July 2023

The aim of this study is to provide a novel method to perform Enlow’s neutral track analysis on cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images. Eighteen CBCT images of skeletal Class I (ANB = 2° ± 2°) subjects (12 males and 6 females, aged from 9 to 19 years) with no history of previous orthodontic treatment were selected. For each subject, 2D Enlow’s neutral track analysis was performed on lateral cephalograms extracted from CBCT images and 3D neutral track analysis was performed on CBCT images. A Student’s t-test did not show any statistically significant difference between the 2D and 3D measurements and therefore the method proposed by this study to realize the neutral track analysis on 3D images is valid and superimposable on that described by Enlow on lateral cephalograms. Further studies with a large sample and different skeletal class subjects are needed to confirm the results of this research.
Omni-Directional Capture for Multi-Drone Based on 3D-Voronoi Tessellation
Authors: Cao Kai , Chen Yang-Quan , Gao Song , Yan Kun , Zhang Jiahao , An Di
Published: July 2023

This paper addresses the multi-drone formation capture in three-dimensional (3D) environments. The omni-directional minimum volume (ODMV) 3D-Voronoi diagram algorithm is proposed for the first time to achieve the two goals of (1) forming and keeping a capture and (2) planning the control action within its safe, collision region for each drone. First, we extend the traditional 2D Voronoi diagram to the 3D environment and use the non-overlapping spatial division property of 3D Voronoi diagram to inherently avoid the collision between drones. Second, we make improvements to the problem of capture angle in our minimum area strategy and propose an omni-directional minimum volume strategy to accomplish the effective capture of a target by constraining the capture angle. Finally, the wolf pack algorithm (WPA) with variable step size is introduced to provide a movement strategy for multi-drone formations. Thus, the proposed ODMV can also achieve dynamic target and multi target capture in environments with obstacles. The Optitrack motion capture system and Crazyflie drones are used to conduct the multi-drone capture experiment. Both simulation and experimental results are included to demonstrated the effectiveness of the proposed ODMV method.
A Dynamic and Static Binary Translation Method Based on Branch Prediction
Authors: Sun Lianshan , Wu Yanjin , Li Linxiangyi , Zhang Changbin , Tang Jingyan
Published: July 2023

Binary translation is an important technique for achieving cross-architecture software migration. However, mainstream dynamic binary translation frameworks, such as QEMU, often generate a large amount of redundant code, which degrades the efficiency of the target code. To this end, we propose a dynamic–static binary translation method based on branch prediction. It first identifies parts of translation blocks following static branch prediction techniques. Then it translates these translation blocks into less-redundant native code blocks by canonical static translation algorithms. Finally, it executes all code blocks that are translated either statically or dynamically by correctly maintaining and switching their running contexts. In order to correctly weave the two types of translation activities, the proposed method only translates the next translation block that is data-independent from the current one by the active variable analysis algorithm, and records and shares the intermediate states of the dynamic and static translation activities via a carefully designed data structure. In particular, a shadow register-based context recovery mechanism is proposed to correctly record the running context of static translation blocks, and to correctly recover the context for dynamically translating and running blocks that were not statically translated. We also designed an adaptive memory optimization mechanism to dynamically release the memory of the mispredicted translation blocks. We implemented a dynamic–static binary translation framework by extending QEMU, called BP-QEMU (QEMU with branch prediction). We evaluated the translation correctness of BP-QEMU using the testing programs for the ARM and PPC instruction sets from QEMU, and evaluated the performance of BP-QEMU using the CoreMark benchmark code. The experimental results show that BP-QEMU can translate the instructions from the ARM and PPC architectures correctly; moreover, the average execution efficiency of the CoreMark code on BP-QEMU improves by 13.3% compared to that of QEMU.
A Novel Bow-Tie Balun-Fed Dual-Polarized Crossed Dipole Antenna
Authors: Wu Weiwei , Yuan Naichang , Hu Xueyi , Xu Yixuan , Shi Tongtong
Published: July 2023

A broadband dual-polarized crossed dipole antenna is proposed in this paper. To achieve a wide impedance bandwidth and low-profile configuration, a novel bow-tie balun is applied to this antenna. Firstly, the working mechanisms of both bow-tie baluns and the antenna are introduced. Then, the parametric study and design guidelines are presented. Finally, the optimized antenna is fabricated, measured, and analyzed. The simulated and measured results show that the antenna has a wide impedance bandwidth from 2.42 GHz to 6.48 GHz. The fractional bandwidth is 91.2%. Moreover, within the whole band, the E-plane and H-plane radiation patterns are stable. The port isolation is greater than 20 dB, and the cross-polarization discrimination ratio is better than 25 dB. The proposed antenna achieves a realized gain of 7.5 dBi ± 0.5 dBi. It can be a good candidate for sub-6 GHz wireless communications or short-range radar applications.
Genetic Analysis of the Cultivars of Ping’ou Hybrid Hazelnut (C. heterophylla Fisch. × C. avellana L.) in China Based on SSR Markers
Authors: Yang Zhen , Zhao Tiantian , Liang Lisong , Jiang Lei , Wang Lujun , Hou Sihao , Ma Qinghua
Published: July 2023

Ping’ou hybrid hazelnut is one of the most profitable tree nuts in China, but economically important cultivars must first be genetically validated to meet industrial demand. Traditional approaches used for cultivar identification are mainly trait-based and unreliable. Previous approaches at the DNA level, focusing on the identification of species or/and varieties that originated in China, were not used widely in hybrid hazelnut because there was no proper standard sample. In this research, a multiplexed fingerprinting test was conducted to allow for hazelnut cultivar identification using SSR markers derived from European hazelnut. Twenty-seven SSR markers were used to fingerprint 57 genetically unique Ping’ou hybrid hazelnut and related wild species. All markers showed a high level of polymorphism, as indicated by mean values for observed heterozygosity (Ho = 0.84), expected heterozygosity (He = 0.80), and polymorphism information content (PIC = 0.78). A total of 301 alleles were detected, and the number of effective alleles varied from 6 for KG817 and GB818 to 18 for B654, with an average of 11.2 alleles per locus. Moreover, the Shannon’s information index (I) ranged from 1.293 for BR215 to 2.385 for B654, with an average of 1.908. The neighbor-joining tree, principal coordinate analysis, and Bayesian analysis revealed clear separation between hybrid cultivars and wild forms (Cluster/group I), as well as the differentiation within hybrid genotypes (Clusters/groups II and III). Additionally, the NJ dendrogram demonstrated a further split within Clusters/group III (III a and III b). Altogether, with the comparable SSR information of the European hazelnut cultivar ‘Barcelona’, the newly developed marker sets can assist in the germplasm identification of hazelnut cultivars and reproductive materials. Importantly, these combined SSR loci can be applied to characterize the genetic relationships and population structures among wild genotypes and hybrid cultivars, which will then provide information to guide hazelnut breeding based on their genetic background.
Forest Height Inversion via RVoG Model and Its Uncertainties Analysis via Bayesian Framework—Comparisons of Different Wavelengths and Baselines
Authors: Zhang Yongxin , Zhao Han , Ji Yongjie , Zhang Tingwei , Zhang Wangfei
Published: July 2023

Accurate estimation of forest height over a large area is beneficial to reduce the uncertainty of forest carbon sink estimation, which is of great significance to the terrestrial carbon cycle, global climate change, forest resource management, and forest-related scientific research. Forest height inversion using polarimetric interferometry synthetic aperture radar (PolInSAR) data through Random volume over ground (RVoG) models has demonstrated great potential for large-area forest height mapping. However, the wavelength and baseline length used for the PolInSAR data acquisition plays an important role during the forest height estimation procedure. In this paper, X–, C–, L–, and P–band PolInSAR datasets with four different baseline lengths were simulated and applied to explore the effects of wavelength and baseline length on forest height inversion using RVoG models. Hierarchical Bayesian models developed with a likelihood function of RVoG model were developed for estimated results uncertainty quantification and decrease. Then a similar procedure was applied in the L– and P–band airborne PolInSAR datasets with three different baselines for each band. The results showed that (1) Wavelength showed obvious effects on forest height inversion results with the RVoG model. For the simulated PolInSAR datasets, the L– and P–bands performed better than the X– and C–bands. The best performance was obtained at the P–band with a baseline combination of 10 × 4 m with an absolute error of 0.05 m and an accuracy of 97%. For the airborne PolInSAR datasets, an L–band with the longest baseline of 24 m in this study showed the best performance with R2 = 0.64, RMSE = 3.32 m, and Acc. = 77.78%. (2) It is crucial to select suitable baseline lengths to obtain accurate forest height estimation results. In the four baseline combinations of simulated PolInSAR datasets, the baseline combination of 10 × 4 m both at the L– and P–bands performed best than other baseline combinations. While for the airborne PolInSAR datasets, the longest baseline in three different baselines obtained the highest accuracy at both L– and P–bands. (3) Bayesian framework is useful for estimation results uncertainty quantification and decrease. The uncertainties related to wavelength and baseline length. The uncertainties were reduced obviously at longer wavelengths and suitable baselines.
Effect of Stand Density on Soil Organic Carbon Storage and Extracellular Enzymes Activity of Larch Plantation in Northeast China
Authors: Sun Xudong , Sun Hailong , Chen Juan , Gao Guoqiang , Li Rui , Li Jinfang , Li Yang , Sun Xiaoyang , Zhang Yandong
Published: July 2023

Soil is the largest carbon (C) pool in terrestrial ecosystems. A small change of soil organic carbon (SOC) storage may have a substantial effect on the CO2 concentration in the atmosphere, potentially leading to global climate change. Forest stand density has been reported to influence SOC storage, yet the effects are often inconsistent. In order to reveal the mechanisms of effect of stand density on SOC storage, larch plantations with three different stand densities (which were 2000, 3300 and 4400 trees per hectare) were chosen. Soil properties were measured in three soil layers which are: 0–20 cm, 20–40 cm and 40–60 cm. An incubation experiment with 14C-labeled cellulose addition was subsequently conducted to study the decomposition of SOC and cellulose, as well as the enzymes activity involved in C and nutrients cycle. The results showed that SOC storage increased with increasing stand density in larch plantations, which was due to the higher C stored in heavy fraction instead of light fraction in higher density. The decomposition of added cellulose decreased with increasing stand density in each soil layer, as well as the cumulative soil derived CO2 emission rate. The activity of enzymes involved in C-cycle and C- and nitrogen (N)-cycle remained unaffected by stand density in the 0–20 cm and 20–40 cm layers. The enzyme activity involved in the phosphorus (P)-cycle did not change corresponding to the stand density in each soil layer. Enzymes involved in the N-cycle showed the highest activity in the middle stand density in 0–20 cm, but no difference was observed among different densities in the subsurface layer except for tyr in the 40–60 cm layer, which showed the lowest activity in high stand density. Cellulose addition stimulated the extracellular enzymes activity involved in the C-cycle and P-cycle in the 0–20 cm layer, and the stimulation declined with increasing stand density. However, significant stimulation of cellulose addition to C-cycle involved enzymes activity was not found in the subsurface layer. We aim to reveal the mechanism of effects of stand density of larch plantations on SOC storage by focusing on the cellulose and SOC decomposition and the corresponding extracellular enzymes activity. In the plots of higher stand density, larch plantations may lead to a weaker C output and stronger C input, which leads to the higher SOC storage.
Cloning, Expression, and Characterization of Family A DNA Polymerase from Massilia aurea
Authors: Kuznetsova Aleksandra A. , Bedritskikh Ksenia S. , Bulygin Anatoly A. , Kuznetsov Nikita A.
Published: July 2023

Mau DNA polymerase is a family A DNA polymerase isolated from Massilia aurea. In this study, a recombinant plasmid, His6-tagged Mau-pET28c, was constructed. His-tagged Mau was expressed in Escherichia coli Rosseta 2 (DE3) competent cells and, after optimization of purification conditions, was successfully isolated via a two-step purification system by Ni2+-chelating affinity chromatography followed by heparin affinity chromatography. The biochemical properties of Mau DNA polymerase were investigated next. This polymerase showed maximal polymerase activity at 30 °C, pH 8.4–8.8, 2–10 mM MgCl2, and 10–40 mM KCl. Kinetic parameters of correct and incorrect dNTP incorporation as well as DNA-binding affinity were determined too. KdNTPd,app values were found to be 16 µM for correct dNTP and 200–500 µM for incorrect dNTP. The kinetic parameter kcat turned out to be 0.2 s−1 for correct dNTP incorporation and an order of magnitude less for incorrect dNTP incorporation. It was demonstrated that Mau DNA polymerase has 5′→3′ and 3′→5′ exonuclease activities associated with the main activity.
Hypoxia Activates HIF-1α and Affects Gene Expression and Transcriptional Regulation of PHD in Tegillarca granosa
Authors: Peng Zhilan , Liu Xiaomin , Jin Ming , Zhan Yu , Zhang Xiaolin , Bao Yongbo , Liu Minhai
Published: July 2023

Hypoxia is a common challenge faced by mollusks, and the role of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) in regulating related target genes under hypoxia in Tegillarca granosa (Tg) remains unclear. In this study, we identified gene HIF-1α and further explored its function. qRT-PCR was performed to determine the mRNA expression of HIF-1α, prolyl 4-hydroxylases (PHD), hemoglobin (Hb), and myoglobin (Mb) in response to hypoxia. Dual-luciferase reporter analysis was used to assess the transcriptional activity of HIF-1α on the PHD and Hb genes during hypoxia. Results showed that the expression levels of HIF-1α and PHD mRNAs were highest in the gill and lowest in the adductor muscle. Under hypoxic conditions, HIF-1α and PHD mRNAs were both induced, and their expression levels increased significantly, peaking at 8 h and gradually decreasing thereafter. The transcription of Tg-PHD was induced by hypoxia and was Tg-HIF-1α dependent. Notably, the expression of Hb decreased in hemocytes (p < 0.01) after 8 h at 0.5 mg/L, while the expression of MbI and MbII increased (p < 0.01) in the hepatopancreas after 24 h and 120 h, respectively. Moreover, Tg-HIF-1α could transactivate the PHD promoter but not that of Hb. These findings provide valuable insights into the regulatory role of Tg-HIF-1α on Tg-PHD, safeguarding it from degradation by PHD and offering significant contributions to the understanding of HIF-1α’s function. Nonetheless, the expression of Tg-HIF-1α protein was not detected under hypoxic conditions, and additional investigations are required to quantify Tg-HIF-1α protein dynamics and establish the correlation between mRNA expression and protein levels.
Difference in Volatile Aroma Components of Stropharia rugosoannulata under Two Cultivated Environments Investigated by SPME-GC-MS
Authors: Wang Yanbin , Wu Dan , Wu Yingqi , Tong Xiaoqing , Qin Yuchuan , Wang Liling
Published: July 2023

In order to study the effect of both greenhouse and forest cultivating environments on Stropharia rugosoannulata, its volatile aroma compounds were measured by a headspace solid phase micro extractions—gas chromatograph—mass spectrometer (SPME–GC–MS). The optimal adsorption temperature was 75 °C and the optimal adsorption time was 40 min. A total of 36 volatile aroma compounds were identified by GC–MS, including 8 aldehydes, 2 ketones, 4 alcohols, 15 alkenes, and 4 alkanes. Hexanal, 3-Octanone, 2-Undecanone, (E)-Nerolidol, and (Z)-β-Farnesene made great aromatic contributions. Among them, Hexanal, 3-Octanone, 2-Undecanone were the key aroma compounds for which odor activity values (OAVs) were more than 1. (E)-Nerolidol showed odor modification in the forest samples and showed a key aroma effect in greenhouse samples. (Z)-β-Farnesene showed odor modification in greenhouse samples. 3-Octanone was the largest contributing compound for which the OAV was more than 60. The total content of volatile aroma compounds first increased and then decreased with growth time; it reached the highest level at 48 h: 2203.7 ± 115.2 μg/kg for the forest environment and 4516.6 ± 228.5 μg/kg for the greenhouse environment. The aroma was the most abundant at this time. All samples opened their umbrella at 84 h and become inedible. Principal component analysis (PCA), hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA), and orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS–DA) were combined to analyze the aroma difference of S. rugosoannulata under two cultivation modes. PCA and HCA could effectively distinguish the aroma difference in different growth stages. Under different culturing methods, the aroma substances and their changes were different. The samples were divided into two groups for forest cultivation, while the samples were divided into three groups for greenhouse cultivation. At the end of growth, the aroma of S. rugosoannulata with the two cultivation modes was very similar. OPLS–DA clearly distinguished the differences between the two cultivation methods; 17 key aroma difference factors with variable importance projection (VIP) > 1 were obtained from SPLS–DA analysis.
pH-Sensitive Hydrogel Bilayers: Investigation on Transient Swelling-Induced Bending through Analytical and FEM Approaches
Authors: Askari-Sedeh Mahdi , Baghani Mostafa
Published: July 2023

pH-responsive hydrogels are recognized as versatile sensors and actuators due to their unique time-dependent properties. Specifically, pH-sensitive hydrogel-based bilayers exhibit remarkable bending capabilities when exposed to pH-triggered swelling. This study introduces a semi-analytical technique that combines non-linear solid mechanics with ionic species transport to investigate the bending behavior of such bilayers. The technique is validated through numerical simulations, exploring the influence of kinetic and geometric properties on bilayer behavior. The results highlight the significance of the interfacial region, particularly in configurations with lower hydrogel geometric ratios, which are susceptible to rupture. The study also uncovers the benefits of a lower hydrogel layer ratio in improving the swelling rate and final deflection, with a stronger effect observed in the presence of a buffer solution. Additionally, the compressibility of the elastomer contributes to the durability of the final bent shape. These findings enhance our understanding of pH-sensitive hydrogel-based bilayers and offer valuable insights for their design and optimization in diverse applications.
Genetic Risk Factors Related to Coronary Artery Disease and Role of Transforming Growth Factor Beta 1 Polymorphisms
Authors: Malinowski Damian , Bochniak Oliwia , Luterek-Puszyńska Katarzyna , Puszyński Michał , Pawlik Andrzej
Published: July 2023

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is one of the leading causes of mortality globally and has long been known to be heritable; however, the specific genetic factors involved have yet to be identified. Recent advances have started to unravel the genetic architecture of this disease and set high expectations about the future use of novel susceptibility variants for its prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. In the past decade, there has been major progress in this area. New tools, like common variant association studies, genome-wide association studies, meta-analyses, and genetic risk scores, allow a better understanding of the genetic risk factors driving CAD. In recent years, researchers have conducted further studies that confirmed the role of numerous genetic factors in the development of CAD. These include genes that affect lipid and carbohydrate metabolism, regulate the function of the endothelium and vascular smooth muscles, influence the coagulation system, or affect the immune system. Many CAD-associated single-nucleotide polymorphisms have been identified, although many of their functions are largely unknown. The inflammatory process that occurs in the coronary vessels is very important in the development of CAD. One important mediator of inflammation is TGFβ1. TGFβ1 plays an important role in the processes leading to CAD, such as by stimulating macrophage and fibroblast chemotaxis, as well as increasing extracellular matrix synthesis. This review discusses the genetic risk factors related to the development of CAD, with a particular focus on polymorphisms of the transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) gene and its receptor.
Impact of Various Salinity Levels and Fusarium oxysporum as Stress Factors on the Morpho-Physiological and Yield Attributes of Onion
Authors: Mansha Muhammad Zeeshan , Aatif Hafiz Muhammad , Ikram Kamran , Hanif Ch. Muhammad Shahid , Sattar Abdul , Iqbal Rubab , Zaman Qamar uz , Al-Qahtani Salem Mesfir , Al-Harbi Nadi Awad , Omar Wael A. , Ibrahim Mohamed F. M.
Published: July 2023

The onion (Allium cepa L.) belongs to the family Alliaceae and has paramount importance among vegetable crops around the globe. Salinity stress and the soil-borne fungus Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. Cepa (FOC), which is the cause of basal rot, are potentially hazardous factors related to the yield of onion crops. The present study was conducted in CRD using three replicates in in vitro conditions and in a greenhouse to investigate the impact of stress factors (salinity levels and FOC) (T1 = Negative control; T2 = Positive control (FOC); T3 = EC 2.5 dS m−1; T4 = EC 3.5 dS m−1; T5 = EC 4.5 dS m−1; T6 = EC 2.5 dS m−1 + FOC; T7 = EC 3.5 dS m−1 + FOC; and T8 = EC 4.5 dS m−1 + FOC) on the morphological, physiological, and yield parameters of onions. Fungal biomass, in the in vitro condition, increased at a salinity level of 2–8 dS m−1. In the greenhouse, the application of salinity levels, viz. 2.5, 3.5, and 4.5 dS m−1, and fungal pathogens exhibited a more severe impact on the severity of the disease, onion growth, and bulb compared to sole stress. Overall, the decreased levels of osmotic potential, total chlorophyll content, membrane stability index, and total protein were assessed in onion leaves, whereas total phenolics were enhanced in the mentioned stress conditions. Sugar contents were reduced due to the sole application of pathogens, whereas they were enhanced in the sole application of salinity stress and increased due to a combination of FOC and salinity level applications. Polyphenol oxidase (PPO) activity was not altered as a result of pathogen infection, while peroxidase (PO) and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL) contents were enhanced, and the activity of catalase (CAT) was reduced. Sole stress along with the combined application of salinity levels with fungal pathogens exhibited enhanced PO and PPO activity; in contrast, CAT and PAL activity decreased. In summary, onion crop cultivation in saline soil conditions increases the disease’s severity, which is caused by FOC. Furthermore, it is crucial to carry out field trials while considering these outcomes in order to support a strong strategy for reducing the tested stresses within a wider range of environmental conditions.
Drinking to Cope Mediates the Association between Dyadic Conflict and Drinking Behavior: A Study of Romantic Couples during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Hagen Amanda E. F. , Rodriguez Lindsey M. , Neighbors Clayton , Nogueira-Arjona Raquel , Sherry Simon B. , Lambe Laura , Deacon S. Hélène , Meier Sandra , Abbass Allan , Stewart Sherry H.
Published: July 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic spurred public health measures to reduce viral spread. Concurrently, increases in alcohol consumption and conflict in romantic partnerships were observed. Pre-pandemic research demonstrated a bidirectional association between couples’ conflict and drinking. Recent research shows one’s drinking motives (proximal predictors of drinking behavior) can influence another person’s drinking in close relationships. It is possible that individuals are drinking to cope with distress following romantic conflict. The current study examined 348 cohabitating couples during the first lockdown in the spring of 2020. Our analyses examined coping motives as a mediator between dyadic conflict and drinking behavior using actor–partner interdependence models. Results showed that conflict was associated with greater reports of own drinking in gendered (distinguishable) and nongendered (indistinguishable) analyses through coping motives. Further, in mixed-gender couples, men partners’ coping motives predicted less drinking in women, while women partners’ coping motives predicted marginally more drinking in men. Partner effects may have been observed due to the increased romantic partner influence during the COVID-19 lockdown. While these results suggest that men’s coping motives may be protective against women’s drinking, more concerning possibilities are discussed. The importance of considering dyadic influences on drinking is highlighted; clinical and policy implications are identified.
Predictive Risk Factors for Childbirth-Associated Breast Infections in the United States: A 10-Year Perspective
Authors: Koziol Klaudia J. , Smiley Abbas , Latifi Rifat , Castaldi Maria T.
Published: July 2023

Infectious mastitis is a common condition that affects up to 33% of lactating women. Several risk factors have been suggested to be strongly associated with breast abscess, nipple infection, and non-purulent mastitis associated with childbirth. In this retrospective cohort study, we gathered data from the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) between 2005 and 2014 and utilized data stratification and backward linear regression to analyze the predictive factors associated with patients hospitalized with breast infection after childbirth, with special consideration of risk factors affecting hospital length of stay (LOS). In the ten-year period, 4614 women were hospitalized with a primary diagnosis of breast abscess, nipple infection, or non-purulent mastitis associated with childbirth. Mean (SD) age was 26.75 (6) years. The highest frequency distribution of cases was observed in patients aged 22–30 years (49.82%). Mean (SD) LOS was 2.83 (1.95) days. Mean (SD) LOS in patients with procedure was 3.53 (2.47) days, which was significantly longer than that in those with no procedure (2.39 (1.36) days, p < 0.001). Primary diagnosis of breast abscess and occurrence of a hospital procedure were most significantly associated with prolonged LOS. Factors such as age, socioeconomic position, severity of functional loss, as well as comorbidities were also contributing risk factors to the development of breast infection and increased hospital LOS. Further studies should examine these findings, as they relate to breastfeeding practices and concentrate on establishing best practices for risk reduction and prevention of childbirth-associated breast and nipple infections and hospitalizations.
Developing a National-Scale Exposure Index for Combined Environmental Hazards and Social Stressors and Applications to the Environmental Influences on Child Health Outcomes (ECHO) Cohort
Authors: Martenies Sheena E. , Zhang Mingyu , Corrigan Anne E. , Kvit Anton , Shields Timothy , Wheaton William , Around Him Deana , Aschner Judy , Talavera-Barber Maria M. , Barrett Emily S. , Bastain Theresa M. , Bendixsen Casper , Breton Carrie V. , Bush Nicole R. , Cacho Ferdinand , Camargo Carlos A. , Carroll Kecia N. , Carter Brian S. , Cassidy-Bushrow Andrea E. , Cowell Whitney , Croen Lisa A. , Dabelea Dana , Duarte Cristiane S. , Dunlop Anne L. , Everson Todd M. , Habre Rima , Hartert Tina V. , Helderman Jennifer B. , Hipwell Alison E. , Karagas Margaret R. , Lester Barry M. , LeWinn Kaja Z. , Magzamen Sheryl , Morello-Frosch Rachel , O’Connor Thomas G. , Padula Amy M. , Petriello Michael , Sathyanarayana Sheela , Stanford Joseph B. , Woodruff Tracey J. , Wright Rosalind J. , Kress Amii M.
Published: July 2023

Tools for assessing multiple exposures across several domains (e.g., physical, chemical, and social) are of growing importance in social and environmental epidemiology because of their value in uncovering disparities and their impact on health outcomes. Here we describe work done within the Environmental influences on Child Health Outcomes (ECHO)-wide Cohort Study to build a combined exposure index. Our index considered both environmental hazards and social stressors simultaneously with national coverage for a 10-year period. Our goal was to build this index and demonstrate its utility for assessing differences in exposure for pregnancies enrolled in the ECHO-wide Cohort Study. Our unitless combined exposure index, which collapses census-tract level data into a single relative measure of exposure ranging from 0–1 (where higher values indicate higher exposure to hazards), includes indicators for major air pollutants and air toxics, features of the built environment, traffic exposures, and social determinants of health (e.g., lower educational attainment) drawn from existing data sources. We observed temporal and geographic variations in index values, with exposures being highest among participants living in the West and Northeast regions. Pregnant people who identified as Black or Hispanic (of any race) were at higher risk of living in a “high” exposure census tract (defined as an index value above 0.5) relative to those who identified as White or non-Hispanic. Index values were also higher for pregnant people with lower educational attainment. Several recommendations follow from our work, including that environmental and social stressor datasets with higher spatial and temporal resolutions are needed to ensure index-based tools fully capture the total environmental context.
Green Synthesis of MIL-88B(Cr) with the Co-Modulator of Nitric Acid and Acetic Acid
Authors: Li Fuzhi , Tang Songfan , Li Mingmin , Xiao Pengcheng , Luo Mingliang , Zhao Tian
Published: July 2023

MIL-88B(Cr) is a prototypical flexible chromium-based metal-organic framework (MOF), which possesses extremely strong water/thermal stability and excellent “swelling/breathing” ability. However, in previous studies, there have been very few reports on MIL-88B(Cr) due to unclear synthesis details. Here, we found that the pure MIL-88B(Cr) can be facile synthesized through a hydrothermal method with the co-use of nitric acid and acetic acid (molar ratio = 1:15). The obtained MIL-88B(Cr) was sufficiently characterized by diverse techniques to assure its high-level quality. This work emphasizes a future valuable approach to expanding the production of flexible Cr-based MOF.
Development of a Cadaveric Shoulder Motion Simulator with Open-Loop Iterative Learning for Dynamic, Multiplanar Motion: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Axford David Timothy , Potra Robert , Appleyard Richard , Tomka Janos , Arenas-Miquelez Antonio , Bokor Desmond , Ferreira Louis , Raniga Sumit
Published: July 2023

Ex vivo shoulder motion simulators are commonly used to study shoulder biomechanics but are often limited to performing simple planar motions at quasi-static speeds using control architectures that do not allow muscles to be deactivated. The purpose of this study was to develop an open-loop tendon excursion controller with iterative learning and independent muscle control to simulate complex multiplanar motion at functional speeds and allow for muscle deactivation. The simulator performed abduction/adduction, faceted circumduction, and abduction/adduction (subscapularis deactivation) using a cadaveric shoulder with an implanted reverse total shoulder prosthesis. Kinematic tracking accuracy and repeatability were assessed using maximum absolute error (MAE), root mean square error (RMSE), and average standard deviation (ASD). During abduction/adduction and faceted circumduction, the RMSE did not exceed 0.3, 0.7, and 0.8 degrees for elevation, plane of elevation, and axial rotation, respectively. During abduction/adduction, the ASD did not exceed 0.2 degrees. Abduction/adduction (subscapularis deactivation) resulted in a loss of internal rotation, which could not be restored at low elevation angles. This study presents a novel control architecture, which can accurately simulate complex glenohumeral motion. This simulator will be used as a testing platform to examine the effect of shoulder pathology, treatment, and rehabilitation on joint biomechanics during functional shoulder movements.
Quantitative Evaluation of Aerosols Produced in the Dental Office during Caries Treatment: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Matys Jacek , Gedrange Tomasz , Dominiak Marzena , Grzech-Leśniak Kinga
Published: July 2023

Background: Effective removal of aerosols generated during dental treatment is crucial for maintaining biosafety in dental practice. This study aimed to measure the aerosol amount and the number of aerobic bacteria in the air during caries treatment. Methods: The study involved 50 molar teeth (n = 50) in the mandible in 50 patients divided into two groups based on the type of a high-volume evacuator (HVE); G1 (n = 25) conventional HVE (EM19 EVO, Monoart® Euronda, Vicenza, Italy) and G2 (n = 25) a new, wider, customized HVE. The PC200 laser particle counter (Trotec GmbH, Schwerin, Germany) was used to measure aerosol particles in a range of 0.3–10.0 μm near the operator’s mouth. The study used 60 microbiological plates with a microbiological medium (Columbia Agar with 5% Sheep Blood) to check the number of aerobic bacteria in the air. Results: The mean value of aerosol particles in the G1 group (conventional HVE) was 54,145 ± 7915, while in the G2 group (test, wider evacuator) was lower and amounted to 32,632 ± 1803. (p < 0.001). The median total bacteria count in the air per cubic meter in control, G1 (HVE), and G2 (NEW-HVE) groups were 50 [36-60]; 772 [643-881]; 120 [92-139], respectively. (p < 0.05). Gram-positive cocci were the predominant bacteria in the plates: Micrococcus sp. (50%), Bacillus species (36.4%), Staphylococcus epidermidis (3.8%), Staphylococcus saprophyticus (3.8%). Conclusions: the application of the wider high-volume evacuator increases the air purity during caries treatment as well as the biological safety of a dental office.
Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Modern Context for an Ancient Disease
Authors: Gallo Paolo , Silletta Marianna , Prinzi Federica Lo , Farolfi Tommaso , Coppola Alessandro
Published: July 2023

Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide [...]
Music Therapy and Korsakoff’s Syndrome: The State of the Art
Authors: van Bruggen-Rufi Monique , van der Stouw Gerjanne
Published: July 2023

In this perspective article, the authors give insight into the beneficial effects and the current developments in music therapy for patients with Korsakoff’s syndrome (KS) in the Netherlands. Music may be the key to distracting patients from negative moods, to help them express emotions and to teach them new skills on physical, psychosocial and cognitive levels. This may lead to improving the quality of life of patients with KS. Emphasis is placed on the personal experience of the authors and on the future directions in the field. Their experience, as well as the experience of music therapy colleagues working in the field with the same target population (joined together in the Music Therapy Korsakoff Expertise Group), is situated in the context of existing literature and showcases current developments in the specific field of music therapy and KS. Since literature on this specific topic is limited, the authors allowed themselves to delve into somewhat older but still leading and representative literature. There is still little knowledge on how music therapy may contribute to reducing the impairments patients with KS suffer and to improving their quality of life in general. Using the Empathic Directive Approach (EDA) as the starting point, the authors elaborate on different potential approaches and interventions. With this article, the authors aim to gain more insight into the potential role of the music therapist by highlighting music–therapeutic micro-interventions and to provide recommendations for future directions on how to integrate music therapy in the treatment of patients with Korsakoff’s syndrome.
Association between the Upper Quarter Dynamic Balance, Anthropometrics, Kinematics, and Swimming Speed
Authors: Bartolomeu Raul F. , Sampaio Tatiana , Oliveira João P. , Barbosa Tiago M. , Morais Jorge E.
Published: July 2023

Besides recurrently assessed water-based parameters, there are also some individual characteristics that affect swimming performance that are not water related. In the past few years, dynamic balance has been associated with land sports performance. Conversely, evidence on this topic in swimming is scarce. The purpose of this study was to assess the association between on-land dynamic balance and swimming performance. Sixteen young adults and recreational swimmers were recruited for the present study (8 males 20.8 ± 2.0 years, and 8 females 20.1 ± 1.9 years). A set of anthropometric features were measured. The upper quarter Y-balance test was selected as a dynamic balance outcome, and swimming speed as the swimming performance indicator. The results showed a moderate and positive correlation between dynamic balance and swimming performance (p < 0.05). Speed fluctuation was highly and negatively related to swimming speed (p < 0.001), i.e., swimmers who had higher scores in the dynamic balance were more likely to deliver better performances. This suggests that in recreational swimmers, the stability and mobility of the upper extremity had a greater influence on swimming performance. Therefore, swimming instructors are advised to include dynamic balance exercises in their land-based training sessions to improve their swimmers’ performance.
A Lightweight Detection Algorithm for Unmanned Surface Vehicles Based on Multi-Scale Feature Fusion
Authors: Zhang Lei , Du Xiang , Zhang Renran , Zhang Jian
Published: July 2023

Lightweight detection methods are frequently utilized for unmanned system sensing; however, when put in complicated water surface environments, they suffer from insufficient feature fusion and decreased accuracy. This paper proposes a lightweight surface target detection algorithm with multi-scale feature fusion augmentation in an effort to improve the poor detection accuracy of lightweight detection algorithms in the mission environment of unmanned surface vehicles (USVs). Based on the popular one-stage lightweight YOLOv7-Tiny target detection algorithms, a lightweight extraction module is designed first by introducing the multi-scale residual module to reduce the number of parameters and computational complexity while improving accuracy. The Mish and SiLU activation functions are used to enhance network feature extraction. Second, the path aggregation network employs coordinate convolution to strengthen spatial information perception. Finally, the dynamic head, which is based on the attention mechanism, improves the representation ability of object detection heads without any computational overhead. According to the experimental findings, the proposed model has 22.1% fewer parameters than the original model, 15% fewer GFLOPs, a 6.2% improvement in mAP@0.5, a 4.3% rise in mAP@0.5:0.95, and satisfies the real-time criteria. According to the research, the suggested lightweight water surface detection approach includes a lighter model, a simpler computational architecture, more accuracy, and a wide range of generalizability. It performs better in a variety of difficult water surface circumstances.
Understanding Antecedents That Affect Customer Evaluations of Head-Mounted Display VR Devices through Text Mining and Deep Neural Network
Authors: Maeng Yunho , Lee Choong C. , Yun Haejung
Published: July 2023

Although the market for Head-Mounted Display Virtual Reality (HMD VR) devices has been growing along with the metaverse trend, the product has not been as widespread as initially expected. As each user has different purposes for use and prefers different features, various factors are expected to influence customer evaluations. Therefore, the present study aims to: (1) analyze customer reviews of hands-on HMD VR devices, provided with new user experience (UX), using text mining, and artificial neural network techniques; (2) comprehensively examine variables that affect user evaluations of VR devices; and (3) suggest major implications for the future development of VR devices. The research procedure consisted of four steps. First, customer reviews on HMD VR devices were collected from Amazon.com. Second, candidate variables were selected based on a literature review, and sentiment scores were extracted. Third, variables were determined through topic modeling, in-depth interviews, and a review of previous studies. Fourth, an artificial neural network analysis was performed by setting customer evaluation as a dependent variable, and the influence of each variable was checked through feature importance. The results indicate that feature importance can be derived from variables, and actionable implications can be identified, unlike in general sentiment analysis.
“Customer Reviews or Vlogger Reviews?” The Impact of Cross-Platform UGC on the Sales of Experiential Products on E-Commerce Platforms
Authors: Jia Yiwu , Feng Haolin , Wang Xin , Alvarado Michelle
Published: July 2023

User-generated content (UGC) from e-commerce platforms and third-party platforms can impact customer-perceived risk and influence product sales in online stores. However, the understanding of UGC from which platform type yields a stronger effect on product sales and how the effects interact across the platforms remains limited. This limitation arises from the complexity of consumer purchasing behavior and information processing, as well as the heterogeneity of UGC features across different platforms and the uncertainty surrounding causal relationships. This study constructs a novel cross-platform framework using the elaboration likelihood model (ELM) to investigate the underlying mechanism of how cross-platform UGC affects online sales of experiential products. Additionally, it examines the mediating effect of purchase intention in the relationship between cross-platform UGC and product sales, as well as the moderating effect of product price. Taking the e-commerce platform Tmall and third-party platform Bilibili as a cross-platform example, we analyzed customer reviews on Tmall and vlogger reviews on Bilibili for 300 cosmetic products, using text sentiment analysis and multiple regression. Results show that the number of product evaluations from third-party platforms positively impacts sales, but this impact is weaker compared to the influence of UGC originating from e-commerce platforms on sales. The underlying mechanism refers to the process by which UGC on an e-commerce platform directly impacts sales and also influences sales through purchase intention. In contrast, UGC on third-party platforms only influences sales through purchase intention. Furthermore, the product price has no significant moderating effect on the positive relationship between review length and sales. This study provides a cross-platform UGC research framework that can guide effective cross-platform marketing management by shedding light on the role of UGC in reducing customer-perceived risk and its impact on online sales of experiential products.