bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell‐derived mitochondrial transplantation on ischemia‐reperfusion injury in a rat model
Authors: Lee Chan Yeong , Khan Galina , Hyun Dong Yun , Kim Sang Hun , Park Eun Soo
Published: September 2024

Background

Despite advancements in reconstructive procedures, ischemia‐reperfusion (I/R) injury remains a significant challenge in reconstructive surgery, with mitochondrial dysfunction playing a pivotal role. Mitochondrial transplantation has emerged as a promising therapeutic strategy to address this issue. This study aims to evaluate the impact of umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell‐derived mitochondrial transplantation on skin flap I/R models in rats.

Material and methods

Twenty male rats underwent I/R injury on skin flaps, with or without mitochondrial transplantation administered via intravenous or subcutaneous routes. Analysis encompassed histopathology, inflammatory, apoptotic, oxidative stress, and hypoxia markers.

Results

Results revealed a reduction in inflammation, apoptosis, oxidative stress, and hypoxia in the transplantation group compared to controls.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell‐derived mitochondrial transplantation shows promise in enhancing flap viability and attenuating I/R injury, offering valuable insights for improved outcomes in reconstructive surgery. However, further exploration in larger animal models and refinement of delivery methods and dosage are warranted to fully elucidate its clinical translatability.
The diagnostic value and associated molecular mechanism study for fibroblast‐related mitochondrial genes on keloid
Authors: Wei Ting , Xu Zuojiao
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study aims to reveal the mechanism of fibroblast‐related mitochondrial genes on keloid formation and explore promising signature genes for keloid diagnosis.

Method

The distribution of fibroblasts between the keloid sample and control sample based on three keloid datasets, followed by the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) investigation and associated enrichment analysis. Then, hub genes were explored based on DEGs, mitochondrial genes from an online database, as well as fibroblast‐related genes that were revealed by WCGNA. Subsequently, signature genes were screened through machine learning, and their diagnostic value was validated by nomogram. Moreover, the targeted drugs and related transcriptional regulation of these genes were analyzed. Finally, the verification analysis was performed on signature genes using qPCR analysis.

Result

A total of totally 329 DEGs were revealed based on three datasets, followed by enrichment analysis. WGCNA revealed a total of 258 fibroblast‐related genes, which were primarily assembled in functions like muscle tissue development. By using machine learning, we screened four signature genes (ACSF2, ALDH1B1, OCIAD2, and SIRT4) based on eight hub genes (fibroblast‐related mitochondrial genes). Nomogram and validation analyses confirmed the well‐diagnostic performance of these four genes in keloid. Immune infiltration and drug correlation analyses showed that SIRT4 was significantly associated with immune cell type 2 T helper cells and molecular drug cyclosporin. All these findings provided new perspectives for the clinical diagnosis and therapy of keloid.

Conclusion

The fibroblast‐related mitochondrial genes including SIRT4, OCIAD2, ALDH1B1, and ACSF2 were novel signature genes for keloid diagnosis, offering novel targets and strategies for diagnosis and therapy of keloid.
Evaluation of hair surface structure and morphology of patients with lichen planopilaris (LPP) by atomic force microscopy (AFM)
Authors: Krawczyk‐Wołoszyn Karolina , Żychowska Magdalena , Reich Adam
Published: September 2024

Background

Lichen planopilaris (LPP) is a chronic lymphocytic skin disease manifested by progressive scarring alopecia. The diagnosis of LPP is made based on histopathological examination, although it is not always definite. The current study evaluates the effectiveness of non‐invasive atomic force microscopy (AFM) hair examination in detecting morphological differences between healthy and diseased hair.

Materials and methods

Here, three to five hairs from lesional skin of 10 LPP patients were collected and examined at nine locations using AFM. At least four images were taken at each of the nine sites. Metric measurements were taken and metric (length, width, and scale step height) and morphological features (striated and smooth surface of scales, the presence of endocuticle and cortex, shape of scales edges, scratches, pitting, cracks, globules, and wavy edge) were compared with hair from healthy controls. In addition, areas on diseased hair where the process of pathological, unnatural delamination of the hair fiber occurs are described.

Results

There was a statistically significant difference in the number of scratches in the initial sections of the LPP hair, in the intensity of wavy edges along the entire length of the tested hair, and in the number of scales with pitting in the middle section of the hair. In addition, a statistically significant higher number of scales with striated surface was found in LPP group starting at 3.5 cm from the root continuing towards the free end of the hair. Other morphological changes such as presence of cortex, globules, oval indentations, and rod‐like macrofibrillar elements were also assessed, however, detailed results are not presented, as the differences shown in the number of these morphological changes were not significantly different.

Conclusion

This publication outlines the differences between virgin, healthy Caucasian hair, and the hair of LPP patients. The results of this study can be used for further research and work related to LPP. This is the first attempt to characterize the hair of LPP patients using AFM.
Targeted precision cryotherapy for acne vulgaris
Authors: Hong Ji Yeon , Kim Ka Ram , Kim Hyun Jung , Seok Joon , Park Kui Young
Published: September 2024

Background

Acne vulgaris poses a significant dermatological challenge, necessitating alternative treatments due to limitations and side effects associated with current therapies. This pilot clinical trial investigated the feasibility and efficacy of precision cryotherapy for acne vulgaris.

Methods

A total of 20 volunteers underwent targeted precision cryotherapy using a carbon dioxide‐based device. Treatment outcomes were assessed using various parameters, including Investigator Global Assessment (IGA) score, acne lesion count, erythema index (EI), global evaluation score, and participant satisfaction. Safety monitoring included adverse event reporting and physical examination.

Results

Precision cryotherapy demonstrated a significant reduction (90.25%) in the acne lesion count by week 4, with clinical improvement indicated by IGA score reduction (p < 0.001). The EI showed notable improvements at weeks 1, 2, and 4. The global evaluation score demonstrated a 75%–100% clinical improvement at Visit 4. Participants reported high satisfaction (6.75 ± 0.79) with the procedure. No adverse event or discomfort was reported.

Conclusion

Precision cryotherapy effectively improved acne lesions, which was safe and satisfactory for participants. These findings suggest its potential as an alternative therapeutic modality, especially for populations with limited treatment options. Further research is needed to validate the results and explore underlying mechanisms.
Auranofin Suppresses the Growth of Canine Mammary Tumour Cells and Induces Apoptosis via the PI3K/AKT Pathway
Authors: Lin Zhaoyan , Chen Rong , Wang Jiao , Zheng Yu , He Zixuan , Yan Ye , Zhang Linxi , Huang Xiaohong , Zhang Hong
Published: September 2024

Canine mammary gland tumour (CMT) is the most common spontaneous tumour in intact female dogs and often exhibits metastases. Auranofin (AF) is a gold complex used for treating rheumatism. The excellent anti‐tumour ability of AF has been demonstrated in various types of human and canine tumours. In this study, five CMT cell lines (CIPp, CMT‐7364, CHMp, CIPm and CTBp) and three CMT primary cells (G7894, L1883 and L6783) were used to explore the anti‐tumour effect of AF on CMT. Two CMT cell lines (CIPp and CMT‐7364) were used to search the underlying mechanism of the effect of AF on CMT. The results showed that AF inhibited the growth, migration, invasion, and colony formation abilities of CMT cells. Additionally, the growth of CMT in a 3D cell culture model was effectively suppressed by AF. Furthermore, AF induced cell apoptosis of CMT cells via the PI3K/AKT pathway. In conclusion, AF effectively induces CMT apoptosis by regulating the PI3K/AKT pathway, indicating that AF should be explored as a potential CMT treatment in future studies.
The Role of Perceived Attachment to God in Times of Distress on Psychological Well-Being: A Mix-Method Study
Authors: Lim Yee Lly , Wong Mandy Shiet Ching , Leow Kenneth
Published: September 2024

God can be perceived as an attachment figure (AF) who functions as a safe haven and secure base during distressful times. Nevertheless, stress levels might influence individuals’ attachment styles with God, which can in turn differentially affect their psychological well-being (PWB). study aimed to examine the mediating role of attachment to God in the relationship between stress and PWB among religious young adults. A mixed-methods design was utilized, whereby 118 participants completed a survey, and 4 participants were interviewed to obtain more in-depth insights about religious attachments. The quantitative results indicated that stress negatively predicted PWB and positively predicted insecure attachment to God, secure attachment to God positively predicted PWB, and insecure attachment to God negatively predicted PWB; however, stress did not predict secure attachment to God. Additionally, the relationship between stress and PWB was mediated by insecure attachment to God. For the qualitative aspect, , namely, a relationship with God provides security, religious attachments are hindrances in religious practices and sources of distress, religious insecurities create distress, and differences in ‘God’ conceptualizations. and the practical implication of considering religious attachments in therapy were also discussed.
Perspective of Private Kindergarten Teachers on Pre-Coding Program in Early Childhood Education / Pandangan Guru Tadika Swasta Terhadap Program Pre-Coding dalam Pendidikan Awal Kanak-Kanak
Authors: Rahman Siti Naimah , Jamil Norly , Abdul Rani Intan Farahana , Mohd Basir Jamilah , Omar Romarzila
Published: September 2024

Nowadays, learning coding has become a highly demanded teaching method to apply basic skills such as programming and computational thinking (CT) in line with current technological developments. Malaysia also takes this issue into account by introducing a pre-coding program for early childhood education. Pre-coding is an activity that teaches the concept of coding which is looking at computational thinking (CT) such as problem solving, logical thinking and creative thinking without involving the use of digital devices. This is because pre-coding is seen as more appropriate to be implemented for children in line with their developmental level who are in dire need of exploring the real world through physical activity. Therefore, this study aims to identify the views of private kindergarten teachers on pre-coding in early childhood education. This teacher's view is seen from the aspects of knowledge, awareness, interest and acceptance of the teacher about the pre-coding program in early childhood education. This study uses a quantitative research design with a cross-sectional survey method. A total of 144 private kindergarten teachers around the states of Perak, Selangor and Putrajaya were selected as the study sample. The research instrument uses a set of questionnaires to answer the research objectives by looking at the median value for each aspect. The findings of the study show that the median value is high for the aspects of knowledge, awareness, interest and acceptance of teachers about pre-coding for children. The study found that the median value of all four aspects is equal to a value of 4. Therefore, the implementation of the pre-coding program is very important to be introduced and implemented in the early teaching and learning of children to help children acquire new basic skills in line with the development of the world of technology.
A Parametric Study on NOx Emissions From Ammonia Containing Product Gas in Rich–Quench–Lean Combustion
Authors: Raslan Ahmed , Yang Silin , Durocher Antoine , Güthe Felix , Bergthorson Jeff
Published: September 2024

Due to climate change, there has been an increasing demand for fuels that can accelerate the transition away from fossil fuels to clean energy. Humidified product gas obtained from gasifying biomass is emerging as a promising candidate to replace natural gas, as it is composed of a gaseous mixture of hydrogen, steam, carbon monoxide, and methane. However, the gasification process releases ammonia and other nitrogen bearing compounds into the product gas, resulting in substantial increases in nitric oxides, NOx, in the exhaust. As such, there has been a recent push to understand the underlying chemical kinetics that drive NOx formation in order to optimize gas turbines to mitigate emissions at the source. In this study, a simplified chemical reactor network (CRN) model for a gas turbine rich–quench–lean (RQL) combustor was developed in cantera. The following parameters were investigated in this study: equivalence ratio of the primary section, overall equivalence ratio, steam dilution, postflame residence time, and recirculation from the postquench region to the primary section. Additionally, a benchmark CRN representing a lean burner (LB) is also developed. Results of the CRN model suggest that, when comparing to LB, a RQL type combustor delivers up to a 75% reduction in emissions. Additionally, it was found that, for both the LB and RQL combustors, an overall lean to stoichiometric equivalence ratio is well suited to reduce emissions in highly humidified fuels, while for moderately humidified fuels it is preferable to operate in an overall slightly rich equivalence ratio. The difference observed is mainly due to the fact that, at high humidification and lean conditions, the temperature is favorable for the conversion of ammonia to nitrogen, while, at moderate humidification and rich conditions, NO reacts with ammonia in the reburn process. Finally, it is suggested that the incorporation of recirculation from the secondary section to the primary section of the RQL burner results in a broader low emission region, due to more favorable conditions for ammonia conversion to nitrogen in the primary section.
Network Analysis of Two-Stage Customer Decisions with Preference-Guided Market Segmentation
Authors: Cui Yaxin , Sun Zhuoxin , Xiao Yinshuang , Sha Zhenghui , Koskinen Johan , Contractor Noshir , Chen Wei
Published: September 2024

Network-based analyses have shown their effectiveness in understanding customer preferences through interactions and relationships between customers and products, particularly for tailored product design. There is limited research on applying this analysis to diverse customers with varied preferences. This paper introduces a market-segmented network modeling approach, guided by customer preference, to explore heterogeneity in customers' two-stage decision-making process: consideration-then-choice. In heterogeneous markets, like household appliances, even customers with similar characteristics or purchasing similar products can exhibit different decision-making processes. Therefore, In this method, we segment customers into groups based on preferences rather than just characteristics, allowing for more accurate choice modeling. Using Joint Correspondence Analysis, we identify associations between customer attributes and preferred products, characterizing market segments through clustering. We then build individual bipartite customer-product networks and apply the Exponential Random Graph Model to compare the product features influencing customer considerations and choices in various market segments. Using a US household vacuum cleaner survey, our method detected different customer preferences for the same product attribute at different decision-making stages. The market-segmentation model outperforms the non-segmented benchmark in prediction, highlighting its accuracy in predicting varied customer behaviors. This study underscores the vital role of preference-guided segmentation in product design, illustrating how a deeper understanding of customer preferences at different decision stages can inform and refine design strategies, ensuring products are more closely aligned with the dynamic needs and tastes of diverse markets.
Gait Generation of a 10-Degree-of-Freedom Humanoid Robot on Deformable Terrain Based on Spherical Inverted Pendulum Model
Authors: Gora Sunil , Gupta Shakti S. , Dutta Ashish
Published: September 2024

Gait generation of a humanoid robot on a deformable terrain is a complex problem as the foot and terrain interaction and terrain deformation have to be included in the dynamics. To simplify the dynamics of walk on deformable terrain, we used a spherical inverted pendulum (SIP) to represent the single support phase, in which the effect of terrain deformation is represented by a spring and damper contact model. The impact model for leg transition is derived from angular momentum conservation. In order to minimize the energy loss due to impact, the double support phase is modeled as a suspended pendulum. Based on the motion of the SIP model, the hip and leg trajectories of a 10-degree-of-freedom (DOF) humanoid robot are generated. The joint trajectories of the robot are obtained from inverse kinematics. The motion of the center of mass is analyzed by inverse dynamics of a floating-base robot. The proposed gait generation method has been experimentally validated using a Kondo KHR-3HV humanoid robot on deformable terrain. The results show that the humanoid can effectively track the trajectories of the SIP model.
Achieving Advocacy Success—The International Society for Physical Activity and Health’s Long-Term Strategy to Advance Physical Activity as a Priority in Global Health Policy
Authors: Shilton Trevor , Milton Karen
Published: September 2024

Background: In 2011, physical inactivity was described as the Cinderella risk factor for noncommunicable diseases. This metaphor was used to highlight the disjunct between the advancing evidence on physical inactivity as a risk factor for ill health, its high prevalence, and the paucity of global policy response or priority afforded to physical activity. This paper describes the strategic actions of the International Society for Physical Activity and Health (ISPAH) to raise the profile of physical activity as a global public health priority. Methods: From 2008, ISPAH coordinated a long-term advocacy strategy to advance the status of physical activity and promote its presence as a priority within global health policy. The society employed an advocacy mix that reflected contemporary advocacy theory and models. Results: Through 6 advocacy deliverables, aligned to the global calendar of United Nations and World Health Organization policy developments, ISPAH seized the opportunity to advance physical activity policy and strategies to inform global noncommunicable disease action planning and align with the Sustainable Development Goals. ISPAH’s successful execution of global advocacy for physical activity highlights the importance of leadership, clear objectives, progressive action, timeliness, partnerships, and persistence. Conclusion: As a result of strategic global advocacy since 2008, the field in 2024 is better positioned in relation to global professional mobilization, policy, and technical support for physical activity. However, despite impressive progress across more than 12 years, and the innovation of the Global Action Plan on Physical Activity, the work of global advocacy for physical activity is far from complete.
Glucokinase activators and imeglimin: new weaponry in the armamentarium against type 2 diabetes
Authors: Sjöholm Åke
Published: September 2024

The prevalence of type 2 diabetes (T2D) is increasing relentlessly all over the world, in parallel with a similar increase in obesity, and is striking ever younger patients. Only a minority of patients with T2D attain glycemic targets, indicating a clear need for novel antidiabetic drugs that not only control glycemia but also halt or slow the progressive loss of β-cells. Two entirely novel classes of antidiabetic agents—glucokinase activators and imeglimin—have recently been approved and will be the subject of this review.

Allosteric activators of glucokinase, an enzyme stimulating insulin secretion in β-cells and suppressing hepatic glucose production, are oral low-molecular-weight drugs. One of these, dorzagliatin, is approved in China for use in adult patients with T2D, either as monotherapy or as an add-on to metformin. It remains to be seen whether the drug will produce sustained antidiabetic effects over many years and whether the side effects that led to the discontinuation of early drug candidates will limit the usefulness of dorzagliatin.

Imeglimin—which shares structural similarities with metformin—targets mitochondrial dysfunction and was approved in Japan against T2D. In preclinical studies, the drug has also shown promising β-cell protective and preservative effects that may translate into disease-modifying effects.

Hopefully, these two newcomers will contribute to filling the great medical need for new treatment modalities, preferably with disease-modifying potential. It remains to be seen where they will fit in contemporary treatment algorithms, which combinations of drugs are effective and which should be avoided. Time will tell to what extent these new antidiabetic agents will add value to the current treatment options against T2D in terms of sustained antidiabetic effect, acceptable safety, utility in combination therapy, and impact on hard end-points such as cardiovascular disease.
Spinal muscular atrophy in an upper-middle-income nation before the advent of reimbursed disease-modifying therapies
Authors: Sakpichaisakul Kullasate , Katanyuwong Kamornwan , Intusoma Utcharee , Paprad Tanitnun , Suwanpakdee Piradee , Khongkhatithum Chaiyos , Sanmaneechai Oranee
Published: September 2024

Objective

To elucidate the clinical characteristics and standard of care (SoC) of spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) patients in Thailand, focusing on primary endpoints: age at death and a composite of death or tracheostomy need.

Design

Retrospective observational study.

Setting

Seven tertiary centres across Thailand.

Patients

Records of 110 patients with genetically confirmed SMA, spanning 2012–2021.

Interventions

Historical data review; no active interventions.

Main outcome measures

Age at death and a composite measure of death or tracheostomy necessity.

Results

The cohort included 1 SMA0, 50 SMA1, 40 SMA2 and 19 SMA3 cases. Median ages at the onset and diagnosis of SMA1 were 3 and 6.2 months. Of SMA1 patients, 63% required ventilators, and eight received dimethyltryptamines (DMTs) at a median of 15 months (range 6.4–24.5 months). The median time from onset to DMT was 11 months (range 4.2–20.5 months). Among SMA1 patients, 73% died by the study’s end. SMA2 and SMA3 patients' median onset ages were 11 and 24 months, respectively, with diagnosis at 24.8 and 68.7 months. Half of all types received physical therapy.

Conclusions

Significant delays in diagnosis and SoC access, including DMTs, were observed, underscoring urgent needs for improved diagnostic and care strategies to enhance SMA patient outcomes in Thailand.
Quasi particle model vs lattice QCD thermodynamics: extension to $$N_f=2+1+1$$ flavors and momentum dependent quark masses
Authors: Sambataro Maria Lucia , Greco Vincenzo , Parisi Gabriele , Plumari Salvatore
Published: September 2024

In the last decade a quasi-particle model (QPM) has supplied the basis for the study of heavy quark (HQ) production in ultra-relativistic collisions, allowing for a phenomenological estimate of the HQ diffusion coefficient $$D_s(T)$$

D
s

(
T
)

. Using the new lattice QCD results for the equation of state (EoS) with 2+1+1 dynamical flavors, we extend the QPM from $$N_f=2+1$$

N
f

=
2
+
1

to $$N_f=2+1+1$$

N
f

=
2
+
1
+
1

, where the charm quark is included. Fixing the coupling g(T) by a fit to the lQCD energy density $$\epsilon (T)$$

ϵ
(
T
)

, we evaluate the impact of different temperature parametrizations of charm quark mass on EoS and susceptibilities $$\chi _q(T)$$

χ
q

(
T
)

of light, $$\chi _s(T)$$

χ
s

(
T
)

of strange and $$\chi _c(T)$$

χ
c

(
T
)

of charm quarks, the last favouring a charm quark mass increasing toward $$T_c$$

T
c

. We also explore the extension of the QPM to a more realistic approach called QPM$$_p$$

p

, where quark and gluon masses explicitly depend on their momentum converging to the current quark mass at high momenta, as expected from asymptotic free dynamics. The QPM$$_p$$

p

allows for a simultaneous quantitative description not only of the EoS but also of the quark susceptibilities ($$\chi _q(T)$$

χ
q

(
T
)

, $$\chi _s(T)$$

χ
s

(
T
)

), which instead are underestimated in the simple QPM. Furthermore, evaluating the spatial diffusion coefficient $$2\pi T D_s(T)$$

2
π
T

D
s

(
T
)

in the QPM$$_p$$

p

, we find it is also closer than QPM to the recent lQCD data performed including dynamical fermions. Finally, in a 1+1D expanding system, we evaluate the $$R_{AA}(p_T)$$

R

AA

(

p
T

)

in the QPM and QPM$$_p$$

p

, finding a significant reduction at low momenta for QPM$$_p$$

p

which could lead in a realistic scenario to a better agreement to experimental data.
Real particle physics analysis by UK secondary school students using the ATLAS Open Data: an illustration through a collection of original student research
Authors: Conroy Eimear , Barr Alan , Harris Ynyr , Kirk Julie , Olaiya Emmanuel , Phillips Richard
Published: September 2024

Since the 2020 release of $$10 \hbox { fb}^{-1}$$

10

fb

-
1

of integrated luminosity of proton–proton collision data to the public by the ATLAS experiment, significant potential for its use for youth engagement in physics and citizen science has been present. In particular, this article aims to address whether, if provided adequate training and resources, high school students are capable of leveraging the ATLAS Open Data to semi-autonomously develop their own original research projects. To this end, a repository of interactive Python Jupyter notebook training materials was developed, incrementally increasing in difficulty; in the initial instalments no prior knowledge of particle physics or Python coding is assumed, while in the latter stages students emulate the steps of a real Higgs boson search using ATLAS data. This programme was implemented in secondary schools throughout the UK during the 2022/23 academic year and is presented in this article through a collection of research projects developed by a selection of participating students.
DLAS: A Conceptual Model for Across-Stack Deep Learning Acceleration
Authors: Gibson Perry , Cano Jose , Crowley Elliot , Storkey Amos , O'Boyle Michael
Published: September 2024

Deep Neural Networks (DNNs) are very computationally demanding, which presents a significant barrier to their deployment, especially on resource-constrained devices. Significant work from both the machine learning and computing systems communities has attempted to accelerate DNNs. However, the number of techniques available and the required domain knowledge for their exploration continues to grow, making design space exploration (DSE) increasingly difficult. To unify the perspectives from these two communities, this paper introduces the Deep Learning Acceleration Stack (DLAS), a conceptual model for DNN deployment and acceleration. We adopt a six-layer representation that organizes and illustrates the key areas for DNN acceleration, from machine learning to software and computer architecture. We argue that the DLAS model balances simplicity and expressiveness, assisting practitioners from various domains in tackling co-design acceleration challenges. We demonstrate the interdependence of the DLAS layers, and thus the need for co-design, through an across-stack perturbation study, using a modified tensor compiler to generate experiments for combinations of a few parameters across the DLAS layers. Our perturbation study assesses the impact on inference time and accuracy when varying DLAS parameters across two datasets, seven popular DNN architectures, four compression techniques, three algorithmic primitives (with sparse and dense variants), untuned and auto-scheduled code generation, and four hardware platforms. The study observes significant changes in the relative performance of design choices with the introduction of new DLAS parameters (e.g., the fastest algorithmic primitive varies with the level of quantization). Given the strong evidence for the need for co-design, and the high costs of DSE, DLAS offers a valuable conceptual model for better exploring advanced co-designed accelerated deep learning solutions.
Understanding Silent Data Corruption in Processors for Mitigating its Effects
Authors: Wang Shaobu , Zhang Guangyan , Wei Junyu , Wang Yang , Wu Jiesheng , Luo Qingchao
Published: September 2024

Silent Data Corruption (SDC) in processors can lead to various application-level issues, such as incorrect calculations and even data loss. Since traditional techniques are not effective in detecting these errors, it is very hard to address problems caused by SDCs in processors. For the same reason, knowledge about these SDCs in the wild is limited.

In this article, we conduct an extensive study on CPU SDCs in a large production CPU population, encompassing over one million processors. In addition to collecting overall statistics, we perform a detailed study to understand (1) whether certain processor features are particularly vulnerable and their potential impacts on applications; (2) the reproducibility of CPU SDCs and the triggering conditions (e.g., temperature) of those less reproducible SDCs; and (3) the challenges to mitigate and handle CPU SDCs.

We further investigate the implications that our observations obtained from the above researches have on the SDC fault models, SDC mitigation strategies, and the future research fields. In addition, we design an efficient SDC mitigation approach called Farron, which uses prioritized testing to detect highly reproducible SDCs and temperature control to mitigate less-reproducible SDCs. Our experimental results indicate that Farron can achieve better coverage of CPU SDCs with lower overall overhead, compared to the baseline used in Alibaba Cloud. This demonstrates that our observations are able to assist in SDC mitigation.
Ajna: A Wearable Shared Perception System for Extreme Sensemaking
Authors: Wilchek Matthew , Luther Kurt , Batarseh Feras A.
Published: September 2024

This article introduces the design and prototype of Ajna, a wearable shared perception system for supporting extreme sensemaking in emergency scenarios. Ajna addresses technical challenges in Augmented Reality (AR) devices, specifically the limitations of depth sensors and cameras. These limitations confine object detection to close proximity and hinder perception beyond immediate surroundings, through obstructions, or across different structural levels, impacting collaborative use. It harnesses the Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) in AR devices to measure users’ relative distances from a set physical point, enabling object detection sharing among multiple users across obstacles like walls and over distances. We tested Ajna’s effectiveness in a controlled study with 15 participants simulating emergency situations in a multi-story building. We found that Ajna improved object detection, location awareness, and situational awareness and reduced search times by 15%. Ajna’s performance in simulated environments highlights the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance sensemaking in critical situations, offering insights for law enforcement, search and rescue, and infrastructure management.
Eco-Friendly Route Planning Algorithms: Taxonomies, Literature Review and Future Directions
Authors: Fahmin Ahmed , Cheema Muhammad Aamir , Eunus Ali Mohammed , Nadjaran Toosi Adel , Lu Hua , Li Huan , Taniar David , A. Rakha Hesham , Shen Bojie
Published: September 2024

Eco-friendly navigation (a.k.a. eco-routing) finds a route from A to B in a road network that minimizes the greenhouse gas (GHG) emission or fuel/energy consumption of the traveling vehicle. As road transport is a major contributor to GHG emissions, eco-routing has received considerable research attention in the past decade, mainly on two research themes: (1) developing models to estimate emissions or fuel/energy consumption of vehicles; and (2) developing algorithms to find eco-friendly routes for a vehicle. There are some excellent literature reviews that cover the existing estimation models. However, there is no literature review on eco-friendly route-planning algorithms. This article fills this gap and provides a systematic literature review in this area. From mainstream online databases, we obtained 2,494 articles and shortlisted 76 articles using our exclusion criteria. Accordingly, we establish a holistic view of eco-routing systems and define five taxonomies of estimation models, eco-routing problems and algorithms, vehicle types, traffic, and road network characteristics. Concerning the taxonomies, we categorize and review the shortlisted articles. Finally, we highlight research challenges and outline future directions in this important area.
Predicting Attrition among Software Professionals: Antecedents and Consequences of Burnout and Engagement
Authors: Trinkenreich Bianca , Santos Fabio , Stol Klaas-Jan
Published: September 2024

In this study of burnout and engagement, we address three major themes. First, we offer a review of prior studies of burnout among IT professionals and link these studies to the Job Demands-Resources (JD-R) model. Informed by the JD-R model, we identify three factors that are organizational job resources and posit that these (a) increase engagement and (b) decrease burnout. Second, we extend the JD-R by considering software professionals’ intention to stay as a consequence of these two affective states, burnout and engagement. Third, we focus on the importance of factors for intention to stay, and actual retention behavior. We use a unique dataset of over 13,000 respondents at one global IT organization, enriched with employment status 90 days after the initial survey. Leveraging partial-least squares structural quation modeling and machine learning, we find that the data mostly support our theoretical model, with some variation across different subgroups of respondents. An importance-performance map analysis suggests that managers may wish to focus on interventions regarding burnout as a predictor of intention to leave. The Machine Learning model suggests that engagement and opportunities to learn are the top two most important factors that explain whether software professionals leave an organization.
Recurrent Rhabdomyolysis in a Medical Cadet during Military Training as a Rare Initial Presentation in Calpainopathy
Authors: Lertsakulbunlue Sethapong , Sakboonyarat Boonsub , Suwanpakdee Piradee , Boonyawat Boonchai
Published: September 2024

Rhabdomyolysis, an emergency medical condition linked to muscle necrosis and intracellular substances released into the bloodstream, significantly endangers military personnel in heat‐stress conditions. Rhabdomyolysis can also be an initial presentation in inherited muscle disorders. This study reports a novel case of calpainopathy (LGMDR1) diagnosed in a 19‐year‐old male military cadet who initially presented with recurrent rhabdomyolysis during training, a rare presentation in LGMD patients. Furthermore, a persistent creatine kinase (CK) elevation was observed at baseline. The diagnosis was confirmed by identifying a compound heterozygous of a novel frameshift, c.606dup (p.Ala203CysfsTer9), a mutation in exon 4, and a missense, c.956C > T (p.Pro319Leu), a mutation in exon 7 of the CAPN3 gene, via whole exome sequencing. This case highlights the necessity of diagnostic investigation in individuals who have persistent high CK levels during the rhabdomyolysis episodes and possibly CK screening prior to military training to preemptively identify and mitigate complications from undiagnosed muscular dystrophies in military personnel in the future.
Exploring Immune Responses through Dynamic Modeling of Cell‐Immune Interactions in Viral Infection and Vaccination
Authors: Kim Kwang Su , Jung Il Hyo , Byun Jong Hyuk
Published: September 2024

Infectious diseases pose a significant threat to global health, necessitating the development of effective vaccination strategies. This study examines the dynamics of viral infections and immune responses, with a particular focus on the roles of antibodies and CD8+ T cells induced by vaccination. Through a mathematical model, we explore the intricate interactions between host cells and viruses to assess the impact of vaccination on viral replication. Our findings align with experimental results, demonstrating that vaccination substantially enhances immune responses and reduces viral replication. The contributions of both antibody and CD8+ T cell responses are shown to be vital for achieving optimal vaccine efficacy. The model’s predictions, validated against experimental observations, emphasize the need to incorporate mechanisms that induce robust immune responses in vaccine design. This study underscores the critical role of mathematical modeling in understanding immune dynamics and in refining vaccination strategies to develop more effective treatments against viral infections.
Genetic Artificial Hummingbird Algorithm‐Support Vector Machine for Timely Power Theft Detection
Authors: Gbafore Emmanuel , Segera Davies Rene , Kiruki Cosmas Raymond Mutugi
Published: September 2024

Utilities face serious obstacles from power theft, which calls for creative ways to maintain income and improve operational effectiveness. This study presents a novel hybrid genetic artificial hummingbird algorithm‐support vector machine classifier to detect power theft. The proposed algorithm combines the artificial hummingbird algorithm exploration phase with the genetic algorithm’s mutation and crossover operators, to optimize the support vector machine’s hyperparameters and categorize users as fraudulent or nonfraudulent. It utilizes 7,270 rows of labeled historical electricity consumption data from the Liberia Electricity Corporation over 15 independent runs. The methodology entailed data preprocessing, data split into training, validation, and testing sets in an 80‐10‐10 ratio, z‐score normalization, optimization, training, validation, testing, and computation of six evaluation metrics. Its performance is compared with 13 metaheuristic classifiers and the conventional support vector machine. Findings indicate that the genetic artificial hummingbird algorithm‐support vector machine outperforms the 13 rivals and the standard support vector machine in the six assessment measures with an accuracy score of 0.9986, precision of 0.9971, f_score of 0.9986, recall of 1, Matthews correlation coefficient of 0.9972, and g_mean of 0.9987. Furthermore, 90% of the time, Wilcoxon rank‐sum tests revealed statistically significant differences between the algorithm and its rivals, demonstrating its superiority. The average run time is 4,656 seconds, the 3rd highest among its competitors. Despite the time complexity trade‐off, its excellent performance on the unimodal and multimodal benchmark test functions, placing joint best in 7 out of 7 and 5 out of 6, respectively, provides important insights into the model’s capacity to balance exploitation and exploration, improve local search, and avoid becoming stuck in the local optimum. These findings address important metaheuristic optimization gaps highlighting the model’s potential for power theft detection.
Early Serum Biomarkers of Cardiovascular Disease in Elderly Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Zhang Bohua , Liao Ruoxi
Published: September 2024

Background: The global population is aging. It is estimated that by 2050, the proportion of the elderly population will reach 16%. Various studies have suggested that elderly people have a greater incidence of CKD. These elderly patients are also susceptible to cardiovascular disease (CVD), which is the leading cause of death, resulting in poor prognosis in this population. However, CVD in such patients is often insidious and lacks early markers for effective evaluation. Fortunately, several studies have recently proposed biomarkers associated with this process. Summary: This study aimed to summarize the early biomarkers of CVD in elderly patients with CKD to provide a basis for its prevention and treatment. Key Messages: This review outlines four categories of potential early biomarkers. All of them have been shown to have some clinical value for these patients, but more research is still needed.
Comparison of Thyroid Uptake Values Measured from 131I Scintigraphy and Uptake Probe in Hyperthyroid Patients
Authors: Yeyin Nami , Akyol Sinem , Uslu-Beşli Lebriz , Demir Mustafa
Published: September 2024

Objective: Thyroid uptake test plays an important role in diagnosis, treatment planning and radioiodine dose determination in patients with hyperthyroidism. The aim of this study was to compare the % uptake values calculated with gamma camera and uptake probe after diagnostic 131I application in hyperthyroid patients. Materials and Methods: In this study, % uptake values were measured using a thyroid uptake probe and gamma camera in 32 patients who underwent thyroid radioiodine uptake measurement in our Nuclear Medicine center. Thyroid uptake measurements were prepared in the neck phantom with 0.74–0.925 MBq activity of 131I radionuclide. After counting the phantom with 131I separately in the uptake probe and gamma camera, 131I sample was orally administered to the patient. % uptake values were calculated by the uptake probe measurements and drawing regions of interest (ROI) from scintigraphic images at 2 and 24 h. Results: The 2-h mean % uptake values in the probe and gamma camera were calculated as 30.5 ± 20.4 and 27.1 ± 18.6, respectively. The 24-h mean % uptake values in the thyroid probe and gamma camera were calculated as 57.6 ± 21.9 and 55.3 ± 21.5, respectively. Linear regression analyses for the 2- and 24-h % uptake values calculated with the probe and gamma camera were found as R2 = 0.8412 and R2 = 0.7313, respectively. Conclusion: The 2- and 24-h % uptake values with the probe and gamma camera were found to be consistent with each other, indicating that they can be safely used interchangeably in patients with hyperthyroidism.
Prevalence of Geriatric Syndromes among Older Outpatients with Dementia
Authors: Tran Luc Viet , Nguyen Thanh Xuan , Nguyen Thu Thi Hoai , Nguyen Huong Thi Thu , Nguyen Tam Ngoc , Nguyen Anh Lan , Naganathan Vasikaran , Thillainadesan Janani , Nguyen Huong Thi Thanh , Nguyen Anh Trung , Vu Huyen Thi Thanh
Published: September 2024

Introduction: The identification of geriatric syndromes in people with dementia is important. The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence of geriatric syndromes among dementia outpatients. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted enrolling outpatients with dementia aged ≥60 years old. Dementia was diagnosed by neuropsychiatrists following DSM-5 criteria. The geriatric syndromes assessed included nutritional status (Mini Nutritional Assessment Scale-Short Form), polypharmacy, comorbidities, alcohol use, depression (quality of life in Alzheimer disease), functional status (Barthel Index, Instrumental Activities of Daily Living); lower body strength (30 s stand chair test), and frailty (Timed Up and Go test ≥14 s). Results: A total of 87 participants was recruited in the study (mean age: 76.8 ± 1.2 years; female: 65.5%). The median number of geriatric syndromes per participant was 5 (IQR = 2); all participants had two or more geriatric syndromes. The most common geriatric syndromes were loss of independence (96.6% impairment in >1 IADL task score and 74.7% dependency in physical function at based on Barthel Index), reduced lower body strength (86.2%), malnutrition and risk of malnutrition (78.2%), and frailty (67.8%). Current and history of smoking, drinking alcohol, using memantine therapy, malnourishment and risk of malnourishment were significantly associated with increasing severity of dementia. Conclusion: The presence and coincidence of geriatric syndromes is common among outpatients with dementia. These findings have important clinical implications in terms of the assessment and service delivery for older adults in Vietnam. We are exploring ways to enhance our services to provide comprehensive, multidisciplinary approaches to screening, recognition, and treatment of geriatric syndromes in older adults with dementia.
Effects of a Prophylactic Treatment with Horseradish Root and Nasturtium Herb on Urinary Tract Infections in Individuals with Chronic Neurogenic Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Bieri Andrea Martina , Wöllner Jens , Pannek Jürgen , Krebs Jörg
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common in individuals with neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (NLUTD) and greatly affect their quality of life. There is currently no established prophylactic measure based on evidence. We have therefore evaluated the effects of a horseradish root and nasturtium herb product on the frequency of UTIs in a retrospective cohort. Methods: Clinical data of patients with chronic NLUTD who were receiving the phytotherapeuticum for at least 12 months were analyzed. The number of UTIs was categorized as no UTIs, sporadic UTIs (1–2/year) and recurrent UTIs (≥3/year). The change in the annual number of patient-reported symptomatic UTIs and antibiotic prescriptions was investigated. Results: Data of 43 individuals (mean age 49 ± 13 years, median NLUTD duration 17.9 years) were analyzed. The proportion of individuals with recurrent UTIs decreased significantly (p < 0.0001) from 58.1% (42.1–73.0%) to 23.3% (11.8–38.6%) during phytotherapy, whereas the proportion of individuals without UTIs increased significantly (p = 0.001) from 14.0% (5.3–27.9%) to 39.5% (25.0–55.6%). In addition, there was a significant (p = 0.008) decrease in the number of antibiotic prescriptions. Conclusion: Prophylactic treatment with horseradish root and nasturtium herb seems to be a promising option for the prevention of UTIs.
Campanhas de prevenção ao suicídio e recepção por jovens universitários
Authors: Tondo Rômulo Oliveira , Piedras Elisa Reinhardt , Magalhães Pedro Vieira da Silva
Published: September 2024

Ao tratar de comunicação e saúde, esta pesquisa visa analisar as campanhas de prevenção ao suicídio e a recepção dessa comunicação pelos jovens universitários. A metodologia qualitativa envolve as técnicas de análise documental de campanhas de 23 organizações e entrevistas semiestruturadas sucessivas com 12 jovens, caracterizando-se como um estudo de recepção da publicidade. Os resultados evidenciam que as campanhas têm pouca repercussão entre os jovens estudados, e que sua comunicação, frequentemente, aborda a promoção da saúde mental em vez da prevenção ao suicídio, reforçando o tabu sobre o tema e descumprindo, como apontado pelo público nas práticas de recepção, a esperada função de informar sobre os meios de ajuda e atendimento ao suicídio iminente.