bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Finite-Length Analysis for Spatially Coupled LDPC Codes Based on Base Matrix
Authors: Liu Yang , Sun Sha , Zhang Yuzhi , Wang Bin
Published: July 2023

Spatially coupled low density parity check (SC-LDPC) are prominent candidates for future communication standards due to their “threshold saturation” properties. To evaluate the finite-length performance of SC-LDPC codes, a general and efficient finite-length analysis from the perspective of the base matrix is proposed. We analyze the evolution of the residual graphs resulting at each iteration during the decoding process based on the base matrix and then derive the expression for the error probability. To verify the effectiveness of the proposed finite-length analysis, we consider the SC-LDPC code ensembles constructed by parallelly connecting multiple chains (PC-MSC-LDPC). The analysis results show that the predicted error probabilities obtained by using the derived expression for the error probability match the simulated error probabilities. The proposed finite-length analysis provides a useful engineering tool for practical SC-LDPC code design and for analyzing the effects of the code parameters on the performances.
The Effects of Using Scaffolding in Online Learning: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zuo Mingzhang , Kong Sen , Ma Yuxia , Hu Yue , Xiao Meng
Published: July 2023

Scaffolding is widely used in online learning; however, it is unclear whether scaffolding can effectively enhance students’ online learning performance. To evaluate its effectiveness, we conducted a meta-analysis that included 83 effects sizes from 32 articles published between 2011 and 2021. The findings demonstrated that scaffolding had a significant role in improving students’ online learning performance with an overall effect size of 0.53. In addition, we analyzed the effects of five moderator variables to gain insights into how scaffolding affects students’ online learning performance under different conditions. The discipline, learning outcome type, and scaffolding type were identified as significant moderators. It is expected that the research results will guide teachers to design online scaffolding strategies and improve students’ online learning performance.
Preliminary Validation of Digital Photography to Assess the Home Food Environment
Authors: Quan Daniela , Michael Isaac , Gollub Elizabeth
Published: July 2023

The home food environment (HFE), the availability and accessibility of foods and food products within the home, has a strong influence on healthy eating behaviors. Studies assessing the HFE commonly utilize a home food inventory (HFI) for data collection. However, this approach tends to be burdensome for participants. This study validated a low-burden digital photo method for assessing the home food environment and confirmed that this method is preferred by participants. Study participants completed an HFI, submitted photos of household foods, then identified preference for the HFI or photo reporting method. Researchers completed an HFI based on each participant’s photo submissions. Researcher-to-participant and researcher-to-researcher comparisons were made through ANOVA and randomized block analyses to determine concurrent validity and inter-rater reliability. Method preference was assessed using the Z-test. The participant group (N = 53) was predominantly female (68%), young adult (90.5%), and Hispanic or Latino (71.7%). Concurrent validity was initially moderate (ĸ = 0.54); adjustments yielded substantial agreement (ĸ = 0.61). The inter-rater reliability (p = 0.98) demonstrated significant consistency among reviewers. The photo-documentation method was found to be valid and preferred (p = 0.01) for reporting on the HFE. The photo method can be used advantageously to collect quality data.
Effects of Different Full-Reference Quality Assessment Metrics in End-to-End Deep Video Coding
Authors: Xian Weizhi , Chen Bin , Fang Bin , Guo Kunyin , Liu Jie , Shi Ye , Wei Xuekai
Published: July 2023

Visual quality assessment is often used as a key performance indicator (KPI) to evaluate the performance of electronic devices. There exists a significant association between visual quality assessment and electronic devices. In this paper, we bring attention to alternative choices of perceptual loss function for end-to-end deep video coding (E2E-DVC), which can be used to reduce the amount of data generated by electronic sensors and other sources. Thus, we analyze the effects of different full-reference quality assessment (FR-QA) metrics on E2E-DVC. First, we select five optimization-suitable FR-QA metrics as perceptual objectives, which are differentiable and thus support back propagation, and use them to optimize an E2E-DVC model. Second, we analyze the rate–distortion (R-D) behaviors of an E2E-DVC model under different loss function optimizations. Third, we carry out subjective human perceptual tests on the reconstructed videos to show the performance of different FR-QA optimizations on subjective visual quality. This study reveals the effects of the competing FR-QA metrics on E2E-DVC and provides a guide for further future study on E2E-DVC in terms of perceptual loss function design.
Design of Antenna Polarization Plane for Concurrent Uplink/Downlink Drone Networks
Authors: Tran Gia Khanh , Okada Takuma
Published: July 2023

In recent years, drones have been used in a wide range of fields, such as agriculture, transportation of goods, and security. Drones equipped with communication facilities are expected to play an active role as base stations in areas where ground base stations are unavailable, such as disaster areas. In addition, asynchronous operation is being considered for local 5G, in order to support all kinds of use cases. In asynchronous operation, cross-link interference between base stations is an issue. This paper attempts to reduce the interference caused by the drone network by introducing circularly polarized antennas against the conventional system using linearly polarized antennas. Numerical analyses are conducted to validate the effectiveness of the proposed system, where Signal-to-Interference Ratios (SIRs) are shown to be improved significantly as the numerical evaluation results. Specifically, for the scenario of only access links, in the region where conventional antenna architecture can only achieve an SIR of less than 20 dB, our proposed system applying circularly polarized antennas can almost realize an SIR of more than 40 dB. Significant improvement can be also observed in the scenario with the existence of backhaul links, where the conventional system had difficulty achieving our system design goal SIR of 16.8 dB, while the proposed antenna architecture could easily attain this goal in most regions of our evaluation ranges.
Water Saturation Prediction in the Middle Bakken Formation Using Machine Learning
Authors: Mellal Ilyas , Latrach Abdeljalil , Rasouli Vamegh , Bakelli Omar , Dehdouh Abdesselem , Ouadi Habib
Published: July 2023

Tight reservoirs around the world contain a significant volume of hydrocarbons; however, the heterogeneity of these reservoirs limits the recovery of the original oil in place to less than 20%. Accurate characterization is therefore needed to understand variations in reservoir properties and their effects on production. Water saturation (Sw) has always been challenging to estimate in ultra-tight reservoirs such as the Bakken Formation due to the inaccuracy of resistivity-based methods. While machine learning (ML) has proven to be a powerful tool for predicting rock properties in many tight formations, few studies have been conducted in reservoirs of similar complexity to the Bakken Formation, which is an ultra-tight, multimineral, low-resistivity reservoir. This study presents a workflow for Sw prediction using well logs, core data, and ML algorithms. Logs and core data were gathered from 29 wells drilled in the Bakken Formation. Due to the inaccuracy and lack of robustness of the tried and tested regression models (e.g., linear regression, random forest regression) in predicting Sw as a continuous variable, the problem was reformulated as a classification task. Instead of exact values, the Sw predictions were made in intervals of 10% increments representing 10 classes from 0% to 100%. Gradient boosting and random forest classifiers scored the best classification accuracy, and these two models were used to construct a voting classifier that achieved the best accuracy of 85.53%. The ML model achieved much better accuracy than conventional resistivity-based methods. By conducting this study, we aim to develop a new workflow to improve the prediction of Sw in reservoirs where conventional methods have poor performance.
Occurrence of Persistent Organochlorine Pollutants in Sediments from Lake Piediluco, Italy
Authors: Mercanti Tommaso , El Hachmi Mohamed , Falcinelli Stefano , Sebastiani Bartolomeo
Published: July 2023

In surficial sediments of Lake Piediluco, a small, riverine, regulated and heavily modified water body in the Central Italian Apennines, contamination by persistent organochlorine pollutants (POPs) was assessed. During spring and autumn, six representative points were investigated. Reflecting a substantial zonation of pollution within this aquatic ecosystem, concentrations were found to vary from site to site. OCPs, particularly DDT and its metabolites DDE and DDD, were detected at varying frequencies and concentrations from 0.301 to 8.185 ng/g d.w., whilst total PCBs (Σ50 congeners) were from 0.570 to 10.206 ng/g d.w. Although both PCB congener-specific and homolog patterns suggest a prevalent presence of Aroclors 1254 and 1260, a more limited likely contribution of 1248 technical mixture is not to be excluded. In the western area of the lake, affected daily by continuous basin water remixing for hydroelectricity production, major seasonal differences in OCP concentrations were found. Conversely, the eastern area was typified by low seasonal fluctuation and small variation among sites. Regardless of either collection site or seasonality, polychlorinated-p-dioxin and furan (PCDD/Fs) contamination were below 8.3 pg WHO-TEQ/g. In contrast to the present study, POP pollution from PCBs, PCDD/Fs and some DDT-derived pollutants has not been investigated so far. Nevertheless, the concentrations are typical of low-polluted or pristine area lakes and are consistently lower than those of other Italian lakes of greater size and depth (e.g., Como, Garda and Maggiore). The physical and chemical properties of investigated analytes are more consistent with probable diffuse point source contamination originating from the catchment area, rather than from atmospheric depositions by regional or long-range transports. Finally, according to the international sediment quality guidelines (SQGs), Piediluco sediments pose a low risk to sediment-dwelling organisms and, more generally, to the wildlife of such aquatic ecosystems.
Differences in Aroma Profile of Cabernet Sauvignon Grapes and Wines from Four Plots in Jieshi Mountain Region of Eastern China
Authors: Chen Zhuo , Wu Yang-Peng , Lan Yi-Bin , Cui Yan-Zhi , Shi Tong-Hua , Hua Yu-Bo , Duan Chang-Qing , Pan Qiu-Hong
Published: July 2023

The Bohai Bay region is a famous wine-growing area in China, where the rainfall is concentrated in the summer due to the influence of the temperate semi-humid monsoon climate. As such, the vineyard terrain has a significant impact on the flavor quality of the grapes and the resulting wines. To explore the relationship between the ‘Cabernet Sauvignon’ wine style and terrain, this study takes four different plots in the Jieshi Mountain region to investigate the differences in the aroma profile of Cabernet Sauvignon grapes and wines of two consecutive vintages. Based on two-way ANOVA, there were 25 free and 8 glycosylated aroma compounds in the grapes and 21 and 10 aroma compounds with an odor activity value greater than 0.1 in the wines at the end of alcohol fermentation (AF) and malolactic fermentation (MLF), respectively, that varied among the four plots. Wines from the four plots showed a significant difference in floral and fruity aroma attributes, which were mainly related to esters with high odor activity values. The difference in concentration of these compounds between plots was more pronounced in 2021 than in 2020, and a similar result was shown on the Shannon–Wiener index, which represents wine aroma diversity. It has been suggested that high rainfall makes the plot effect more pronounced. Pearson’s correlation analysis indicated that concentrations of (E)-3-hexen-1-ol in grapes and ethyl 3-methylbutanoate, ethyl hexanoate, isoamyl acetate, isopentanoic acid, and phenethyl acetate in wines were strongly positively correlated with the concentrations of N, P, K, Fe, and electrical conductivity in soil but negatively correlated with soil pH. This study laid a theoretical foundation for further improving the level of vineyard management and grape and wine quality in the Jieshi Mountain region.
Biotechnological Applications of Mushrooms under the Water-Energy-Food Nexus: Crucial Aspects and Prospects from Farm to Pharmacy
Authors: Llanaj Xhensila , Törős Gréta , Hajdú Péter , Abdalla Neama , El-Ramady Hassan , Kiss Attila , Solberg Svein Ø. , Prokisch József
Published: July 2023

Mushrooms have always been an important source of food, with high nutritional value and medicinal attributes. With the use of biotechnological applications, mushrooms have gained further attention as a source of healthy food and bioenergy. This review presents different biotechnological applications and explores how these can support global food, energy, and water security. It highlights mushroom’s relevance to meet the sustainable development goals of the UN. This review also discusses mushroom farming and its requirements. The biotechnology review includes sections on how to use mushrooms in producing nanoparticles, bioenergy, and bioactive compounds, as well as how to use mushrooms in bioremediation. The different applications are discussed under the water, energy, and food (WEF) nexus. As far as we know, this is the first report on mushroom biotechnology and its relationships to the WEF nexus. Finally, the review valorizes mushroom biotechnology and suggests different possibilities for mushroom farming integration.
The Production of Intensified Qu and Its Microbial Communities and Aroma Variation during the Fermentation of Huangjiu (Chinese Rice Wine)
Authors: Zheng Siman , Zhang Wendi , Ren Qing , Wu Jihong , Zhang Jinglin , Wang Bowen , Meng Nan , Li Jinchen , Huang Mingquan
Published: July 2023

In recent years, intensified Qu (IQ) has been gradually applied to brewing in order to improve the aroma of Huangjiu (Chinese rice wine). In this study, Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Wickerhamomyces anomalus solutions were added to Fengmi Qu (FMQ) from Fangxian, China to produce IQ, and brewing trial was conducted. High-throughput sequencing (HTS) was used to analyze the microbial community in fermentation broth of IQ (IQFB). Headspace solid-phase microextraction (HS-SPME) combined with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and sensory evaluation were performed to analyze volatile aroma compounds (VACs) in sample without Qu and both fermentation broths. The results showed that Pediococcus, Cronobacter, Enterococcus, Weissella, and Acinetobacter and Saccharomycopsis, Wickerhamomyces, and Saccharomyces were dominant bacterial and fungal groups, respectively. A total of 115 VACs were detected, and the content of esters including ethyl acetate, isoamyl acetate, and so on was noticeably higher in IQFB. The finding of sensory evaluation reflected that adding pure yeast to Qu could enhance fruit and floral aromas. Correlation analysis yielded 858 correlations between significant microorganisms and different VACs. In addition, prediction of microbial community functions in IQFB revealed global and overview maps and carbohydrate metabolism to be the main one. This study is advantageous for further regulation of the fermentation process of Huangjiu by microbial means.
Developing a MySQL Database for the Provenance of Black Tiger Prawns (Penaeus monodon)
Authors: Gopi Karthik , Mazumder Debashish , Crawford Jagoda , Gadd Patricia , Tadros Carol V. , Atanacio Armand , Saintilan Neil , Sammut Jesmond
Published: July 2023

As the demand for seafood increases, so does the incidence of seafood fraud. Confirming provenance of seafood is important to combat fraudulent labelling but requires a database that contains the isotopic and elemental “fingerprints” of authentic seafood samples. Local isotopic and elemental databases can be scaled up or combined with other databases to increase the spatial and species coverage to create a larger database. This study showcases the use of isotopic and elemental fingerprints of the black tiger prawn (Penaeus monodon) to develop a database that can be used to securely store the data necessary for determining provenance. The utility of this database was tested through querying and building seven different datasets that were used to develop models to determine the provenance of P. monodon. The models built using the data retrieved from the database demonstrated that the provenance of P. monodon could be determined with >80% accuracy. As the database was developed using MySQL, it can be scaled up to include additional regions, species, or methodologies depending on the needs of the users. Combining the database with methods of determining provenance will provide regulatory bodies and the seafood industry with another provenance tool to combat fraudulent seafood labelling.
A Comparative Study between Microwave Hydrodiffusion and Gravity (MHG) and Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction (UAE): Chemical and Biological Characterization of Polyphenol-Enriched Extracts from Aglianico Grape Pomace
Authors: Crescente Giuseppina , Cascone Giovanni , Petruzziello Antonio , Bouymajane Aziz , Volpe Maria Grazia , Russo Gian Luigi , Moccia Stefania
Published: July 2023

The wine industry produces large amounts of grape pomace (GP), a waste that needs to be disposed of properly. Bioactive compounds with high added value can be recovered from GP as an interesting strategy to reduce the environmental impact. Here, two different technologies were employed to recover polyphenol compounds from GP: microwave hydrodiffusion and gravity (MHG) and ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE). The further purification of UAE and MHG extracts was carried out through solid-phase extraction (SPE) to obtain three fractions, F1, F2 and F3. ATR-FTIR analysis confirmed the presence of sugar and polysaccharide components in F1, as well as non-anthocyanin and anthocyanin compounds in F2 and F3, respectively. Also, the chemical profile was determined by HPLC-UV-DAD, identifying the presence of catechin in F2, and malvidin-3-O-glucoside chloride and cyanidin chloride derivative as the main anthocyanin compounds in F3. The fractions and their parental extracts were characterized for total phenolic content (TPC) and scavenger activity by in vitro assays. We found that F2-MHG and F3-MHG contained phenol contents 6.5 and 8.5 times higher than those of the parental non-fractionated extracts. Finally, F3-MHG (100 μg/mL, w/v) was shown to reduce the proliferation of HT-29 cells.
Fractional Temperature-Dependent BEM for Laser Ultrasonic Thermoelastic Propagation Problems of Smart Nanomaterials
Authors: Fahmy Mohamed Abdelsabour
Published: July 2023

The major goal of this work is to present a novel fractional temperature-dependent boundary element model (BEM) for solving thermoelastic wave propagation problems in smart nanomaterials. The computing performance of the suggested methodology was demonstrated by using stable communication avoiding S-step—generalized minimal residual method (SCAS-GMRES) to solve discretized linear BEM systems. The benefits of SCAS-GMRES are investigated and compared to those of other iterative techniques. The numerical results are graphed to demonstrate the influence of fractional, piezoelectric, and length scale characteristics on total force-stresses. These findings also demonstrate that the BEM methodology is practical, feasible, effective, and has superiority over domain methods. The results of the present paper help to develop the industrial uses of smart nanomaterials.
Approximate Controllability of Ψ-Hilfer Fractional Neutral Differential Equation with Infinite Delay
Authors: Varun Bose Chandrabose Sindhu , Udhayakumar Ramalingam , Velmurugan Subramanian , Saradha Madhrubootham , Almarri Barakah
Published: July 2023

In this paper, we explain the approximate controllability of Ψ-Hilfer fractional neutral differential equations with infinite delay. The outcome is demonstrated using the infinitesimal operator, fractional calculus, semigroup theory, and the Krasnoselskii’s fixed point theorem. To begin, we emphasise the presence of the mild solution and show that the Ψ-Hilfer fractional system is approximately controllable. Additionally, we present theoretical and practical examples.
Stackelberg Social Equilibrium in Water Markets
Authors: Houba Harold , Tomori Françeska
Published: July 2023

Market power in water markets can be modeled as simultaneous quantity competition on a river structure and analyzed by applying social equilibrium. In an example of a duopoly water market, we argue that the lack of backward induction logic implies that the upstream supplier foregoes profitable strategic manipulation of water to the downstream supplier. To incorporate backward induction, we propose the Stackelberg social equilibrium concept. We prove the existence of Stackelberg social equilibrium in duopoly water markets with an upstream–downstream river structure and derive it in the example of a duopoly market.
The Impact of COVID-19 on the Financial Performance of Largest Teaching Hospitals
Authors: Lalani Karima , Helton Jeffrey , Vega Francine R. , Cardenas-Turanzas Marylou , Champagne-Langabeer Tiffany , Langabeer James R.
Published: July 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted hospital operations. Anecdotal evidence suggests financial performance likewise suffered, yet little empirical research supports this claim. This study aimed to explore the impact of the pandemic on the financial performance of the most prominent academic hospitals in the United States. Data from the 115 largest major teaching hospitals in the United States were extracted from the American Hospital Directory for three years (2019–2021). We hypothesized that the year and region would moderate the relationship between a hospital’s return on assets (financial performance) and specific operational variables. We found evidence through descriptive statistics and multivariate moderated regressions that financial positions rebounded in 2021, mainly through reductions in adjusted full-time employees and liabilities and an increase in non-operating income. Our results also found that the Midwest region significantly outperformed the other three regions, particularly in terms of lower salaries and operational expenses. These findings suggest potential for future initiatives encouraging efficiency and finding alternate sources of income beyond patient income. Hospitals should focus on improving financial reserves, building out non-operational revenue streams, and implementing operational efficiencies to foster better financial resiliency. These suggestions may enable healthcare administrators and facilities to adapt to future pandemics and environmental turbulence.
Potentially Inappropriate Medications in Older Adults—Prevalence, Trends and Associated Factors: A Cross-Sectional Study in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Jabri Fouad F. , Liang Yajun , Alhawassi Tariq M. , Johnell Kristina , Möller Jette
Published: July 2023

(1) Background: Potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs) in older adults are associated with drug-related problems, adverse health consequences, repeated hospital admissions and a higher risk of mortality. In Saudi Arabia and some Arab countries, studies of PIMs among large cohorts of older adults are limited. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of PIMs, trends and associated factors among outpatient older adults in Saudi Arabia. (2) Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out. Over three years (2017–2019), data on 23,417 people (≥65 years) were retrieved from outpatient clinics in a tertiary hospital in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. PIMs were assessed using the 2019 Beers Criteria. Covariates included sex, age, nationality, number of dispensed medications, and number of diagnoses. A generalized estimating equation model was used to assess trends and factors associated with PIMs. (3) Results: The prevalence of PIMs was high and varied between 57.2% and 63.6% over the study years. Compared with 2017, the prevalence of PIMs increased significantly, with adjusted odds ratios (OR) (95% confidence interval (95% CI)) of 1.23 (1.18–1.29) and 1.15 (1.10–1.21) for 2018 and 2019, respectively. Factors associated with being prescribed PIMs included ≥5 dispensed medications (OR_adjusted = 23.91, 95% CI = 21.47–26.64) and ≥5 diagnoses (OR_adjusted = 3.20, 95% CI = 2.88–3.56). Compared with females, males had a lower risk of being prescribed PIMs (OR_adjusted = 0.90, 95% CI = 0.85–0.94); (4) Conclusions: PIMs were common with an increasing trend among older adults in Saudi Arabia. A higher number of dispensed medications, increased number of diagnoses and female sex were associated with being prescribed PIMs. Recommendations on how to optimize prescriptions and implement de-prescribing strategies are urgently needed.
Effects of Deficit Irrigation and Anti-Stressors on Water Productivity, and Fruit Quality at Harvest and Stored ‘Murcott’ Mandarin
Authors: Elmenofy Hayam M. , Hatterman-Valenti Harlene M. , Hassan Islam F. , Mahmoud Mahmoud Mohamed Abdalla
Published: July 2023

A two-year experiment using ‘Murcott’ mandarin (Citrus reticulata) was conducted under deficit irrigation (DI) strategies with an anti-stressor application and then stored. The three DI regimes were 70% crop evapotranspiration (70% ETC), 85% ETc, and full irrigation (100% ETc). Anti-stressor treatments consisted of a foliar application of either sodium nitroprusside (SNP), selenium nanoparticles (NanoSe), microalgae (Spirulina platensis), or a non-treated control. Mean water productivity values were highest for trees at 70% ETc and 85% ETc when they were sprayed with microalgae, which was 42% and 51% greater, respectively, compared to control trees at 100% ETc, but only 6.5% and 13% greater, respectively, compared to trees sprayed with microalgae at 100% ETc. Trees sprayed with microalgae at 100% ETc or 85% ETc had the highest and second-highest fruit yields. The percentage of fruit water loss after 15 d storage at either 1.5 °C + 90% RH or 16 ± 2 °C + 60–65% RH was reduced at all DI regimes when trees were sprayed with an anti-stressor compared to control trees at the same DI regime. Trees sprayed with 150 μmol L−1 SNP had the only fruit peel that maintained the carotenoid content after cold storage. In general, trees sprayed with SNP were most successful at each DI regime for reduced Malondialdehyde (MDA), but after 15 d of cold storage, only trees sprayed with 150 μmol L−1 SNP at 85% ETc or 100% ETc and/or trees sprayed with NanoSe at 70% ETc had fruit that maintained low MDA content. Catalase and peroxidase enzyme activities and proline content were enhanced when trees were sprayed with 150 μmol L−1 SNP during DI strategies. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of deficit irrigation combined with anti-stressor applications to improve water productivity, fruit yields, and post-storage quality of ‘Murcott’ mandarin trees. These findings offer valuable insights into sustainable citrus production under limited water resources.
Influence of Some Fruit Traits on Codling Moth (Cydia pomonella L.) Preference among Apple Varieties in Two Contrasted Climatic Conditions
Authors: Akroute Dina , Douaik Ahmed , Habbadi Khaoula , ElBakkali Ahmed , BenBouazza Abdellatif , Benkirane Rachid , El Iraqui El Houssaini Salma
Published: July 2023

Codling moth, Cydia pomonella L., is a major pest of pome fruits and walnuts worldwide. Screening the susceptibility of apple varieties to C. pomonella infestation is an important step to develop a sustainable management program against this pest. Therefore, the present study aimed to explore potential correlations between pest damage and several physical (firmness, weight, and diameter), chemical (pH, SSC, and TA), and biochemical (polyphenols) fruit properties collected from two sites with distinctively twelve and seven commercial apple varieties. The study was conducted in two distinct Moroccan regions to highlight whether the traits influencing the insect’s preference could be similar for different varieties under contrasted climates. In both regions, results revealed that the pest damage varied significantly across apple varieties as well as between observation dates. The late and medium maturing varieties had similar damage patterns and were heavily attacked compared to early maturing ones. The preferred varieties were Galaxy Gala, Obro Gala, Golden Smoothee, Black Staymen, and Idared, while the least preferred ones were Anna, Dorsett, and Stark Delicious. Some physical and chemical fruit properties seemed to be associated with the insect behavior, in particular, firmness and pH were positively correlated to pest damage. Moreover, the research suggested that infestations might be influenced by diameter, weight, and polyphenol content of fruits.
Analysis of the Aggregation Characteristics and Influencing Elements of Urban Catering Points in Small Scale: Methods and Results
Authors: Liu Yuefeng , Yao Jiayi
Published: July 2023

Urban catering systems constitute an important subsystem of the complex urban system. They can reveal not only the impact of urban functional structure on the catering but also the behavioral patterns of individual catering points through the exploration of their small-scale aggregation characteristics and influencing elements, thus becoming an essential basis for urban functional planning. In this study, we analyze the aggregation characteristics of catering points in a particular study area using the probabilistic methods, with Beijing catering points as a sample. The analysis revealed a good power-law distribution characteristic of the catering points density at the small scale. Then, an aggregation effect analysis model and an agglomeration effect analysis model were established. Based on this, an empirical analysis of candidate agglomeration kernel elements was conducted. The results showed that the influence of candidate agglomeration kernel elements on catering points exhibited a categorical nature. Additionally, a good power-law attenuation relationship was uncovered between the density and distance of catering points, which ultimately revealed the mechanism of preferential attachment in the competition for catering point site selection. Using the results of the agglomeration analysis, a reasonable explanation was provided for the power-law distribution characteristic of the density of catering points, which achieved an organic connection between micro-analysis and macro-characteristic analysis. These findings could provide a reference for the analysis of aggregation characteristics of other urban commercial formats.
Incorporating an Unsupervised Text Mining Approach into Studying Logistics Risk Management: Insights from Corporate Annual Reports and Topic Modeling
Authors: Olson David , Chae Bongsug (Kevin)
Published: July 2023

This study examined the Security and Exchange Commission (SEC) annual reports of selected logistics firms over the period from 2006 through 2021 for risk management terms. The purpose was to identify which risks are considered most important in supply chain logistics operations. Section 1A of the SEC reports includes risk factors. The COVID-19 pandemic has had a heavy impact on global supply chains. We also know that trucking firms have long had difficulties recruiting drivers. Fuel price has always been a major risk for airlines but also can impact shipping, trucking, and railroads. We were especially interested in pandemic, personnel, and fuel risks. We applied topic modeling, enabling us to identify some of the capabilities of unsupervised text mining as applied to SEC reports. We demonstrate the identification of terms, the time dimension, and correlation across topics by the topic model. Our analysis confirmed expectations about COVID-19’s impact, personnel shortages, and fuel. It also revealed common themes regarding the risks involved in international trade and perceived regulatory risks. We conclude with the supply chain management risks identified and discuss means of mitigation.
Abstracts from the 26th Nordic Congress of Gerontology
Authors: Thuesen Jette , Nilsson Charlotte , Caserotti Paolo
Published: July 2023

This paper is dedicated to the research presented at the 26th Nordic Congress of Gerontology in Odense, Denmark, in June 2022, which was organized by the Danish Gerontological Society and the Danish Society for Geriatrics. The overall topics of the congress were change and continuity. Participants were invited to explore questions on change and continuity from the perspective of ageing and later life within the following congress themes: digitisation and technology; housing, generations and mobility; lifestyle, engagement and transition; education and competences in ageing societies; morbidity, medical treatment and ageing processes; and a good life and a good death. Life is about change and continuity. We experience ourselves and our surroundings differently throughout our lives. For most people, later life is characterized by major transitions, moving towards frailty and multiple losses. But it may also be a part of life with more time to engage in preferred activities, explore new possibilities, and to cope and come to terms with new challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic proved to be a challenge to the world beyond imagination, particularly for frail and vulnerable people and societies. However, it also provided valuable new insights and reminded us of the values in life. We, therefore, also welcomed presentations and discussions on societal perspectives such as citizen perspective, ethnicity, inequality, sustainability and ecology, the pandemic and lockdown. We thank the organizers, scientific committees and all participants for a great congress with high-quality presentations and discussions.
Pancreatic Cancer Surgery: What Matters to Patients?
Authors: Martin David , Alberti Piero , Wigmore Stephen J. , Demartines Nicolas , Joliat Gaëtan-Romain
Published: July 2023

Pancreatic cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related death, with a poor overall survival rate. Although certain risk factors have been identified, the origins of pancreatic cancer are still not fully understood. Surgical resection remains the primary curative treatment, but pancreatic surgery is still associated with high morbidity and mortality rates, and most patients will experience recurrence. The impact of pancreatic cancer on patients’ quality of life is significant, with an important loss of healthy life in affected individuals. Traditional outcome parameters, such as length of hospital stay, do not fully capture what matters to patients during recovery. Patient-centered care is therefore central, and the patient’s perspective should be considered in pre-operative discussions. Patient-reported outcome and experience measures (PROMs and PREMs) could play an important role in assessing patient perspectives, but standardized methodology for evaluating and reporting them is needed. This narrative review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of patient perspectives and different patient-reported measures in pancreatic cancer surgery. Understanding the patient perspective is crucial for delivering patient-centered care and improving outcomes for patients with pancreatic cancer.
Bone Mass Changes Following Percutaneous Radiofrequency Ablation, Osteoplasty, Reinforcement, and Internal Fixation of Periacetabular Osteolytic Metastases
Authors: Jiang Will , Caruana Dennis L. , Dussik Christopher M. , Conway Devin , Latich Igor , Chapiro Julius , Lindskog Dieter M. , Friedlaender Gary E. , Lee Francis Y.
Published: July 2023

Background: The success of orthopedic interventions for periacetabular osteolytic metastases depends on the progression or regression of cancer-induced bone loss. Purpose: To characterize relative bone mass changes following percutaneous radiofrequency ablation, osteoplasty, cement reinforcement, and internal screw fixation (AORIF). Methods: Of 70 patients who underwent AORIF at a single institution, 21 patients (22 periacetabular sites; average follow-up of 18.5 ± 12.3 months) had high-resolution pelvic bone CT scans, with at least one scan within 3 months following their operation (baseline) and a comparative scan at least 6 months post-operatively. In total, 73 CT scans were measured for bone mass changes using Hounsfield Units (HU). A region of interest was defined for the periacetabular area in the coronal, axial, and sagittal reformation planes for all CT scans. For 6-month and 1-year scans, the coronal and sagittal HU were combined to create a weight-bearing HU (wbHU). Three-dimensional volumetric analysis was performed on the baseline and longest available CT scans. Cohort survival was compared to predicted PathFx 3.0 survival. Results: HU increased from baseline post-operative (1.2 ± 1.1 months) to most recent follow-up (20.2 ± 12.1 months) on coronal (124.0 ± 112.3), axial (140.3 ± 153.0), and sagittal (151.9 ± 162.4), p < 0.05. Grayscale volumetric measurements increased by 173.4 ± 166.4 (p < 0.05). AORIF median survival was 27.7 months (6.0 months PathFx3.0 predicted; p < 0.05). At 12 months, patients with >10% increase in wbHU demonstrated superior median survival of 36.5 months (vs. 26.4 months, p < 0.05). Conclusion: Percutaneous stabilization leads to improvements in bone mass and may allow for delays in extensive open reconstruction procedures.
Translational and Rotational Postural Aberrations Are Related to Pulmonary Functions and Skill-Related Physical Fitness Components in Collegiate Athletes
Authors: Tamim May , Moustafa Ibrahim M. , Alaparthi Gopala K. , Oakley Paul A. , Harrison Deed E.
Published: July 2023

This study assessed the relationship between body posture displacements, cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET), and skill-related physical fitness tests. One hundred male (60%) and female collegiate athletes (22.2 ± 4 yrs) with normal body mass indexes (BMI up to 24.9) were assessed via the PostureScreen Mobile® app to quantify postural displacements such as head, thorax, and pelvis rotations and translations. CPET and physical performance tests, including the agility t-test, vertical jump test, stork static balance test (SSBT), and dynamic Y-balance test (YBT), were performed. Spearman correlation (r) and p-values are reported. The postural parameters were found to have moderate-to-high associations with the CPET and agility test, moderate correlations with the vertical jump test and SSBT (head and pelvic postures only), and weak correlations with the YBT. As the postural parameters were more asymmetric, both the CPET and performance skills scores were worse. For example: (1) a medium positive correlation was found between cranio-vertebral angle (CVA) and the vertical jump test (r = 0.54; p-value < 0.001) and SSBT (r = 0.57; p-value < 0.001), while a strong negative correlation was found between CVA and the agility test (r = −0.86; p-value < 0.001). (2) A strong positive correlation was found between CVA and oxygen uptake efficiency slope, load watts VO2 at VT, VO2/kg, and load watts at the respiratory compensation point (RCP) (r = 0.65 and r = 0.71; p < 0.001). Conversely, a significant negative correlation was found between CVA and VE/VO2 at VT (r = −0.61; p < 0.001). Postural rotations and translations of the head, thorax, and pelvis were statistically correlated with the physical performance skills and CPET in the young collegiate athletes. There were moderate-to-high associations with cardiopulmonary functions and the agility tests, moderate correlations with the vertical jump test, and weak correlations with the YBT. Postural alignment may be important for optimal physical performance and optimal cardiopulmonary function. Further research is necessary to elucidate the reasons for these correlations found in our sample of young and healthy athletes.
The Use of Cannabidiol in Metabolic Syndrome—An Opportunity to Improve the Patient’s Health or Much Ado about Nothing?
Authors: Wiciński Michał , Fajkiel-Madajczyk Anna , Kurant Zuzanna , Gryczka Karol , Kurant Dominik , Szambelan Monika , Malinowski Bartosz , Falkowski Michal , Zabrzyński Jan , Słupski Maciej
Published: July 2023

Cannabis-derived therapies are gaining popularity in the medical world. More and more perfect forms of cannabinoids are sought, which could be used in the treatment of many common diseases, including metabolic syndrome, whose occurrence is also increasing. The purpose of this review was to investigate the usefulness of cannabinoids, mainly cannabidiol (CBD), in individuals with obesity, impaired glucose and lipid metabolism, high blood pressure, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). We summarised the most recent research on the broad topic of cannabis-derived influence on metabolic syndrome components. Since there is a lot of work on the effects of Δ9-THC (Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol) on metabolism and far less on cannabidiol, we felt it needed to be sorted out and summarised in this review. The research results on the use of cannabidiol in obesity are contraindicatory. When it comes to glucose homeostasis, it appears that CBD maintains it, sensitises adipose tissue to insulin, and reduces fasting glucose levels, so it seems to be a potential target in this kind of metabolic disorder, but some research results are inconclusive. CBD shows some promising results in the treatment of various lipid disorders. Some studies have proven its positive effect by decreasing LDL and increasing HDL as well. Despite their probable efficacy, CBD and its derivatives will likely remain an adjunctive treatment rather than a mainstay of therapy. Studies have also shown that CBD in patients with hypertension has positive effects, even though the hypotensive properties of cannabidiol are small. However, CBD can be used to prevent blood pressure surges, stabilise them, and have a protective effect on blood vessels. Results from preclinical studies have shown that the effect of cannabidiol on NAFLD may be potentially beneficial in the treatment of the metabolic syndrome and its components. Nevertheless, there is limited data on CBD and NAFLD in human studies. Because of the numerous confounding factors, the conclusions are unclear, and more research in this field is required.
An Analysis of the Risk Factors for Postural Defects among Early School-Aged Children
Authors: Baranowska Anna , Sierakowska Matylda , Owczarczuk Anna , Olejnik Beata Janina , Lankau Agnieszka , Baranowski Paweł
Published: July 2023

A considerable number of problems begin in childhood due to lifestyle changes, which include a transition from a previous period of extensive movement to prolonged hours of staying in a sitting position at school. The aim of this study was to examine the occurrence of back and side view postural defects in the study group of school-aged children and identify risk factors associated with the formation of postural abnormalities in the study group. Methods: This study was conducted on a group of 141 children aged 7–10, attending the first to third grades at a primary school in Białystok (northeastern Poland). This study involved measuring the children’s height and weight, assessing the children’s body posture based on the FITS method (Functional Individual Scoliosis Therapy) by Białek and M’hango (the authors of this study), and administering a diagnostic survey addressed to parents and guardians of the children (n = 104) using a self-designed questionnaire. Results: Almost all defects were more prevalent in boys, especially in the case of stature triangles (p = 0.0489) and knee alignment in the sagittal plane (p = 0.038). The age of the subjects differentiated the incidence of defects in the scapulae (p = 0.0037) and shoulder (p = 0.0129) alignment, correlating negatively with age. The risk of postural defects for knees (p = 0.0391) and abdominal arching (p = 0.0240) was significant with a higher BMI. The following lifestyle-related factors were significant: the seat for doing homework (stature triangles p = 0.0253), time spent in front of a computer (positioning of the scapulae in relation to each other p = 0.0233; vertical view of the intergluteal cleft p = 0.0324), and snacking between meals (feet p = 0.0003; shoulder positioning p = 0.0013; stature triangles p = 0.0186; positioning of the scapulae in relation to each other p = 0.0404). Conclusions: The body posture of the examined children was closed with the head pushed forward and drooped, rounded shoulders, hyperlordosis, and pelvic anteversion. Most exhibited various types of abnormalities related to the feet. The recognized risk factors for posture defects are overweight/obesity, the male gender, children who are older, lack of an adjustable work chair, 2 h a day or more spent using the computer, and snacking between meals.
A Critical Update of the Classification of Chiari and Chiari-like Malformations
Authors: Sahuquillo Juan , Moncho Dulce , Ferré Alex , López-Bermeo Diego , Sahuquillo-Muxi Aasma , Poca Maria A.
Published: July 2023

Chiari malformations are a group of craniovertebral junction anomalies characterized by the herniation of cerebellar tonsils below the foramen magnum, often accompanied by brainstem descent. The existing classification systems for Chiari malformations have expanded from the original four categories to nine, leading to debates about the need for a more descriptive and etiopathogenic terminology. This review aims to examine the various classification approaches employed and proposes a simplified scheme to differentiate between different types of tonsillar herniations. Furthermore, it explores the most appropriate terminology for acquired herniation of cerebellar tonsils and other secondary Chiari-like malformations. Recent advances in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) have revealed a higher prevalence and incidence of Chiari malformation Type 1 (CM1) and identified similar cerebellar herniations in individuals unrelated to the classic phenotypes described by Chiari. As we reassess the existing classifications, it becomes crucial to establish a terminology that accurately reflects the diverse presentations and underlying causes of these conditions. This paper contributes to the ongoing discussion by offering insights into the evolving understanding of Chiari malformations and proposing a simplified classification and terminology system to enhance diagnosis and management.