bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The relationship between negative workplace gossip and thriving at work among Chinese kindergarten teachers: the roles of psychological contract breach and bianzhi
Authors: He Can , Feng Tongtong , Xiong Jie , Wei Hua
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Exploring the influencing factors and functioning mechanisms of thriving at work is of practical significance both for teachers and kindergartens. Based on the socially embedded model of thriving at work, this study aimed to examine the association between negative workplace gossip and thriving at work. The mediating role of psychological contract breach and the moderating role of bianzhi were also examined.

Methods

A total of 1105 Chinese kindergarten teachers were chosen to complete a questionnaire on negative workplace gossip, psychological contract breach, and thriving at work.

Results

The results demonstrated that negative workplace gossip was positively associated with psychological contract breach and negatively associated with thriving at work. In addition, psychological contract breach was negatively associated with thriving at work. According to the mediation model test, psychological contract breach was a mediating factor between negative workplace gossip and thriving at work. The impact of psychological contract breach on thriving at work could be further moderated by bianzhi.

Conclusion

This study complements knowledge systems about the influential factors and functional mechanisms of thriving at work. In practical terms, this study offers a fresh and innovative perspective for kindergartens seeking to enhance teachers’ thriving at work.
Effectiveness of an app-based intervention to improve well-being through cultivating positive thinking and positive emotions in an adult sample: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Uribe Fabio Alexis Rincón , Favacho Maria Fernanda Monteiro , Moura Paula Marília Nascimento , Patiño Diana Milena Cortés , da Silva Pedroso Janari
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Interventions to promote health and well-being based on the construction of psychological resources can positively impact the daily life of users and foster human flourishing. Nowadays, mobile health represents a safe way to support health research and implement evidence-based psychological interventions. The present study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a mobile app-based intervention program (OneUS) designed to cultivate positive emotions and positive thinking to improve overall well-being.

Methods

The study is designed as a randomized controlled trial. Two hundred participants will be randomly assigned to either a mobile health intervention condition (OneUS App) or an active control condition. The intervention consists of a program to cultivate positive emotions and positive thoughts. The active control intervention will comprise a set of mental imagery exercises and daily routine recording. The primary outcome comprises optimal well-being assessed using the multidimensional PERMA-Profiler scale. The sample will include adult people from the general population, who will be assessed at 8 time points: baseline (t1), intervention (t2, t3, t4, t5, t6) post-intervention (t7) and 3-month follow-up (t8).

Discussion

Mobile apps seem to be promising tools to promote health and well-being. This study will evaluate the effectiveness of a mobile app (OneUS) aiming to cultivate positive emotions and positive thinking to improve well-being. The main strength of this study is the development of an evidence-based mobile health app, based on intentional mental training, to promote well-being. The limitations of this study relate to potential participant drop-out and the non-generalizability of the results to clinical populations.

Clinical trial registration

https://ensaiosclinicos.gov.br/rg/RBR-43hpwqk, Identifier RBR-43hpwqk.
Cyber-infrastructure and epidemic precautionary policy: evidence from China
Authors: Gao Qiuming , Hu Youlong , Liao Zangyi , Yao Lu
Published: July 2023

Introduction

The application of technology supported by cyber infrastructure has emerged as a critical factor influencing city management. This study aims to investigate whether the development of cyber infrastructure can enhance cities’ confidence in responding to potential epidemic threats in the context of COVID-19.

Methods

China serves as a good example for both COVID-19 management and smart city construction. We take advantage of a special time point, the 2022 Chinese New Year, to observe cities’ precautionary epidemic policies. We utilize choice models and data from 188 Chinese cities to examine the impact of internet coverage on the degree of policy relaxation.

Results

We found that cities with higher internet coverage tend to adopt looser policies. In the benchmark regression, for every 1 percentage point increase in internet coverage, the likelihood of implementing loose measures increases by 0.9 percentage points. This result remains robust across different classifications of policies. We also addressed potential endogeneity issues by using the instrumental variables method.

Discussion

Our study indicates that effective management of epidemics in the modern era requires not only the utilization of traditional medical resources but also the incorporation of new city features, such as information technology infrastructure.
Moving toward Extensively Drug-Resistant: Four-Year Antimicrobial Resistance Trends of Acinetobacter baumannii from the Largest Department of Internal Medicine in Slovakia
Authors: Jalali Yashar , Liptáková Adriána , Jalali Monika , Payer Juraj
Published: July 2023

A. baumannii imposes a great burden on medical systems worldwide. Surveillance of trends of antibiotic resistance provides a great deal of information needed for antimicrobial stewardship programmes nationwide. Clinical data from long-term, continuous surveillance on trends of antibiotic resistance of A. baumannii in Slovakia is missing. One hundred and forty-nine samples of A. baumannii were isolated over a period of four years. A panel of 19 antibiotics from seven antibiotic categories were tested for the bacterium’s susceptibility. Resistance results were evaluated, and the significance of patterns was estimated using simple linear regression analysis. All isolates were more than 85% resistant to at least 13 out of the 19 tested antibiotics. A significant rise in resistance was recorded for aminoglycosides and imipenem from 2019 to 2022. Colistin and ampicillin-sulbactam have been the only antibiotics maintaining more than 80% efficacy on the bacterium to date. A significant rise in extensively drug-resistant (XDR) strains among carbapenem-resistant (CR) isolates has been recorded. Multidrug-resistance (MDR) among all A. baumannii isolates and XDR among CR strains of the bacterium have risen significantly in the last four years.
Antioxidative Properties of Fermented Soymilk Using Lactiplantibacillus plantarum LP95
Authors: Letizia Francesco , Fratianni Alessandra , Cofelice Martina , Testa Bruno , Albanese Gianluca , Di Martino Catello , Panfili Gianfranco , Lopez Francesco , Iorizzo Massimo
Published: July 2023

In recent times, there has been a growing consumer interest in replacing animal foods with alternative plant-based products. Starting from this assumption, for its functional properties, soymilk fermented with lactic acid bacteria is gaining an important position in the food industry. In the present study, soymilk was fermented with Lactiplantibacillus plantarum LP95 at 37 °C, without the use of stabilizers as well as thickeners and acidity regulators. We evaluated the antioxidant capacity of fermented soymilk along with its enrichment in aglycone isoflavones. The conversion of isoflavone glucosides to aglycones (genistein, glycitein, and daidzein) was analyzed together with antioxidant activity (ABTS) measurements, lipid peroxidation measurements obtained by a thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) assay, and apparent viscosity measurements. From these investigations, soymilk fermentation using Lp. plantarum LP95 as a starter significantly increased isoflavones’ transformation to their aglycone forms. The content of daidzein, glycitein, and genistein increased after 24 h of fermentation, reaching levels of 48.45 ± 1.30, 5.10 ± 0.16, and 56.35 ± 1.02 μmol/100 g of dry weight, respectively. Furthermore, the antioxidant activity increased after 6 h with a reduction in MDA (malondialdehyde). The apparent viscosity was found to increase after 24 h of fermentation, while it slightly decreased, starting from 21 days of storage. Based on this evidence, Lp. plantarum LP95 appears to be a promising candidate as a starter for fermented soymilk production.
Obese Adipocytes Have Altered Redox Homeostasis with Metabolic Consequences
Authors: Cinti Saverio
Published: July 2023

White and brown adipose tissues are organized to form a real organ, the adipose organ, in mice and humans. White adipocytes of obese animals and humans are hypertrophic. This condition is accompanied by a series of organelle alterations and stress of the endoplasmic reticulum. This stress is mainly due to reactive oxygen species activity and accumulation, lending to NLRP3 inflammasome activation. This last causes death of adipocytes by pyroptosis and the formation of large cellular debris that must be removed by macrophages. During their chronic scavenging activity, macrophages produce several secretory products that have collateral consequences, including interference with insulin receptor activity, causing insulin resistance. The latter is accompanied by an increased noradrenergic inhibitory innervation of Langerhans islets with de-differentiation of beta cells and type 2 diabetes. The whitening of brown adipocytes could explain the different critical death size of visceral adipocytes and offer an explanation for the worse clinical consequence of visceral fat accumulation. White to brown transdifferentiation has been proven in mice and humans. Considering the energy-dispersing activity of brown adipose tissue, transdifferentiation opens new therapeutic perspectives for obesity and related disorders.
Real-Time Intelligent Detection System for Illegal Wearing of On-Site Power Construction Worker Based on Edge-YOLO and Low-Cost Edge Devices
Authors: Chang Rong , Li Bangyuan , Dang Junpeng , Yang Chuanxu , Pan Anning , Yang Yang
Published: July 2023

Ensuring personal safety and preventing accidents are critical aspects of power construction safety supervision. However, current monitoring methods are inefficient and unreliable as most of them rely on manual monitoring and transmission, which results in slow detection and delayed warnings regarding violations. To overcome these challenges, we propose an intelligent detection system that can accurately identify instances of illegal wearing of power construction workers in real-time. Firstly, we integrated the squeeze-and-excitation (SE) module into our convolutional neural network to enhance detection accuracy. This module effectively prioritizes informative features while suppressing less relevant ones, resulting in improved overall performance. Secondly, we present an embedded real-time detection system that utilizes Jetson Xavier NX and Edge-YOLO. This system promptly detects and alerts power construction workers of instances of illegal wearing behavior. To ensure a lightweight implementation, we design appropriate detection heads based on target size and distribution, reducing model parameters while enhancing detection speed and minimizing accuracy loss. Additionally, we employed data augmentation to enhance the system’s robustness. Our experimental results demonstrate that our improved Edge-YOLO model achieves high detection precision and recall rates of 0.964 and 0.966, respectively, with a frame rate of 35.36 frames per second when deployed on Jetson Xavier NX. Therefore, Edge-YOLO proves to be an ideal choice for intelligent real-time detection systems, providing superior accuracy and speed performance compared to the original YOLOv5s model and other models in the YOLO series for safety monitoring at construction sites.
Is Orthodontic Treatment an Etiologic Factor for Altered Passive Eruption? A Clinical Study and Systematic Review
Authors: Hakami Zaki
Published: July 2023

This research aims to investigate the relationship between orthodontic treatment (OT) and altered passive eruption (APE). Materials and Methods: A case–control study was carried out among the dentistry students at Jazan University. A total of 21 students were recruited for the case group and 20 others for the control group. Variables were measured on the maxillary incisor teeth. They included an image analysis of the teeth width-to-height (W/H) ratio, a cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) analysis of buccal bone thickness (BCT), and the distance from the cementoenamel junction (CEJ) to the bone crest (BC) (CEJ–BC). In addition, a systematic review was performed following the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Prominent literature databases, including Medline/PubMed, the Cochrane Library, Embase, Scopus, Saudi Digital Library, and Google Scholar, were searched for articles published before November 2022 on two main concepts (APE and orthodontics). Quality of evidence was assessed using the Newcastle–Ottawa scale (NOS), and the certainty of evidence was assessed using the grading of recommendations assessment development and evaluation (GRADE) approach. Results: A total of 164 teeth were evaluated. No statistical differences were observed in the W/H ratio and BCT between the two groups. A significant increase in the CEJ–BC distance in the right and left maxillary lateral incisors was observed for people who had undergone OT (p ≤ 0.002 and 0.001, respectively). In the systematic review, two articles were included for qualitative synthesis. One of the included studies showed an increase in the post-orthodontics clinical crown length of the maxillary anterior teeth. Another study reported no difference in the prevalence of APE between orthodontically treated and untreated people. Conclusion: This research concludes that OT might not be an etiological factor for APE. However, more clinical and radiological studies must be conducted to arrive at decisive conclusions.
Identification of Lacerations Caused by Cervical Cancer through a Comparative Study among Texture-Extraction Techniques
Authors: Aguilar-Santiago Jorge , Guillen-Bonilla José Trinidad , García-Ramírez Mario Alberto , Jiménez-Rodríguez Maricela
Published: July 2023

Cervical cancer is a disease affecting a worrisomely large number of women worldwide. If not treated in a timely fashion, this disease can lead to death. Due to this problematic, this research employed the LBP, OC_LBP, CS-LTP, ICS-TS, and CCR texture descriptors for the characteristic extractions of 60 selected carcinogenic images classified as Types 1, 2, and 3 according to a database; afterward, a statistical multi-class classifier and an NN were used for image classification. The resulting characteristic vectors of all five descriptors were implemented in four tests to identify the images by type. The statistical multi-class combination and classification of all images achieved a classification efficiency of 83–100%. On the other hand, with the NN, the LBP, OC_LBP, and CCR descriptors presented a classification efficiency of between 81.6 and 98.3%, differing from that of ICS_TS and CS_LTP, which ranged from 36.6 to 55%. Based on the tests performed with regard to ablation, ROC curves, and confusion matrix, we consider that an efficient expert system can be developed with the objective of detecting cervical cancer at early stages.
Nonlinear-Observer-Based Neural Fault-Tolerant Control for a Rehabilitation Exoskeleton Joint with Electro-Hydraulic Actuator and Error Constraint
Authors: Song Changlin , Yang Yong
Published: July 2023

The rehabilitation exoskeleton is an effective piece of equipment for stroke patients and the aged. However, this complex human–robot system incurs many problems, such as modeling uncertainties, unknown human–robot interaction, external disturbance, and actuator fault. This paper addresses the adaptive fault-tolerant tracking control for a lower limb rehabilitation exoskeleton joint driven by an electro-hydraulic actuator (EHA). First, the model of the exoskeleton joint is built by considering the principle of the hydraulic cylinder and the servo valve. Then, a novel disturbance-observer-based neural fault-tolerant control scheme is proposed, where the neural network and disturbance observer are incorporated to reduce the influence of the the nonlinear uncertainties and disturbance. Meanwhile, a barrier Lyapunov function is constructed to ensure the stability of the closed-loop system. Finally, comparative simulations on an exoskeleton joint validate the effect of the proposed control scheme.
Digital Twin Based on Historical Data and Simulation Results: Fault Detection and Estimation of the Remaining Useful Life of a Cyclone Bag Filter
Authors: Solari Federico , Lysova Natalya , Montanari Roberto
Published: July 2023

This study deals with the development of a digital twin for monitoring the operating conditions of a cyclone bag filter installed on the suction system of a wheat mill. The model aims to be used for fault identification and real-time prediction of the remaining useful life (RUL). Computational fluid dynamics simulations were performed to characterize in detail the fluid-dynamic behavior of the airflow inside the system under different conditions of filter sleeve clogging. Furthermore, the simulation results were used to identify a location for the installation of a new velocity sensor that would allow, together with the pressure drop measured at the ends of the filter, monitoring of the systems’ conditions. A model able to assess the filter’s operating state, identify failure events or operating anomalies, and make a prediction of the RUL was then developed. A possible implementation of the developed model, based on the simulation results that aimed to optimize the management of the sleeve cleaning cycles was also proposed. The developed digital model was then tested on a working cycle lasting one year, in which a sleeve failure was simulated. It was shown how the simultaneous monitoring of the two identified quantities allows for the correct identification of the failure and the accurate prediction of the RUL.
Alzheimer’s Disease Diagnosis Using Machine Learning: A Survey
Authors: Dara Omer Asghar , Lopez-Guede Jose Manuel , Raheem Hasan Issa , Rahebi Javad , Zulueta Ekaitz , Fernandez-Gamiz Unai
Published: July 2023

Alzheimer’s is a neurodegenerative disorder affecting the central nervous system and cognitive processes, explicitly impairing detailed mental analysis. Throughout this condition, the affected individual’s cognitive abilities to process and analyze information gradually deteriorate, resulting in mental decline. In recent years, there has been a notable increase in endeavors aimed at identifying Alzheimer’s disease and addressing its progression. Research studies have demonstrated the significant involvement of genetic factors, stress, and nutrition in developing this condition. The utilization of computer-aided analysis models based on machine learning and artificial intelligence has the potential to significantly enhance the exploration of various neuroimaging methods and non-image biomarkers. This study conducts a comparative assessment of more than 80 publications that have been published since 2017. Alzheimer’s disease detection is facilitated by utilizing fundamental machine learning architectures such as support vector machines, decision trees, and ensemble models. Furthermore, around 50 papers that utilized a specific architectural or design approach concerning Alzheimer’s disease were examined. The body of literature under consideration has been categorized and elucidated through the utilization of data-related, methodology-related, and medical-fostering components to illustrate the underlying challenges. The conclusion section of our study encompasses a discussion of prospective avenues for further investigation and furnishes recommendations for future research activities on the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease.
A Complex Network Important Node Identification Based on the KPDN Method
Authors: Zhao Liang , Sun Peng , Zhang Jieyong , Peng Miao , Zhong Yun , Liang Wei
Published: July 2023

In complex networks, identifying influential nodes is of great significance for their wide application. The proposed method integrates the correlation properties of local and global, and in terms of global features, the K-shell decomposition method of fusion degree is used to improve the actual discrimination degree of each node. In terms of local characteristics, the Solton index is introduced to effectively show the association relationship between each node and adjacent nodes. Through the analysis and comparison of multiple existing methods, it is found that the proposed method can identify key nodes more accurately so as to help quickly disintegrate the network. The final manual network verification also shows that this method is also suitable for the identification of important nodes of small-world networks and community networks.
Biothermal Heating on Human Skin by Millimeter and Sub-Terahertz Waves in Outdoor Environment—A Theoretical Study
Authors: Wei Menghan , Li Peian , Lei Yuanshuai , Bao Xiue , Ma Jianjun
Published: July 2023

The frequency band in the millimeter-wave (MMW) and sub-terahertz (sub-THz) range has shown great potential in mobile communication technology due to the advantages of ultra-large bandwidth and ultra-high data rates. Based on the increasing research activities on MMW/sub-THz waves, biological safety at relevant frequencies must be explored, especially when high-power illumination occurs. Here, its non-ionizing nature plays a vital role, which makes it safe for humans at low illumination powers. However, under high power, the biothermal heating on the skin surface is still a main concern, and lots of research has been conducted in a laboratory. In this article, we analyze the thermal heating effect of human skin in outdoor environments, where atmospheric conditions can significantly impact the propagation of MMW/sub-THz waves. Our analysis is based on rat skin, which has a similar structure to human skin. A theoretical model combining Pennes’ bioheat transfer equation (BHTE), the ITU model, and the Mie scattering theory is developed. Good agreement between calculation results and measured data confirms the efficiency of this model. The influence of rainfall rate, humidity, operating frequency, illumination time, power density, and propagation distance is presented and discussed.
Effects of Wind Barrier Porosity and Inclination on Wind Speed Reduction
Authors: Lee Sang-Hyun , Kim Hyun , Moon Hyunshik , Kim Hyun-Soo , Han Sang-Sub , Jeong Seonghun
Published: July 2023

Wind barriers play a vital role in protecting saplings until maturity when planted as vegetative windbreak forests. Most previous studies have focused on the porosity of wind barriers, but no studies have simultaneously examined the effects of the porosity and inclination, despite the potential of the inclination to decrease wind speed. We tested three wind barrier cases in wind tunnel experiments: (1) Case A (porosity of 0% with inclinations (90°, 80°, and 70°)), (2) Case B (porosity of 25% with inclinations (90°, 80°, and 70°)), and (3) Case C (porosity of 50% with inclinations (90°, 80°, and 70°)). The vertical and horizontal wind velocities were measured at three vertical and seven horizontal points behind the barriers. The results demonstrated a statistically significant decrease in the correlation between the distance and mean wind velocity for all cases, with up to a six-fold wind protection effect. The wind barrier with 0% porosity and a 90° inclination provided the highest degree of wind protection. However, the wind protection range was limited downwind, and recirculation of wind flow could occur in the leeward direction, potentially damaging saplings. A wind barrier with 50% porosity and 70° inclination sufficiently decreased the wind velocity and prevented recirculation of wind flow, demonstrating that both porosity and inclination considerably impacted the wind protection effect by reducing wind velocity. Our findings offer novel insights into the influence of wind barriers with varying porosities and inclinations and can provide valuable guidance for constructing efficient windbreak forests.
Effects of Diagonal Friction Dampers on Behavior of a Building
Authors: Aydin Emine , Boru Elif , Gurbuz Mert
Published: July 2023

In this study, the effect of the friction damper location on the earthquake behavior of a building was investigated. Diagonal braced friction dampers were placed on different floors, and the changes in building behavior were examined. For this purpose, a scaled experimental building model with five floors, with a single span in the x and y directions, was used. Numerical model validation was carried out by taking into account the experimental and numerical period values obtained via the effect of free vibration. The period, peak displacement, and maximum shear force of the friction dampers, arranged in various configurations, were compared using the numerical model in conjunction with three different earthquake acceleration records. According to the investigations, the damper performance of the design changes depending on the earthquake acceleration that is affecting the building. Friction dampers located on the lower floors are more effective at reducing period, peak displacement, and floor shear forces than those located on the upper floors.
Application of a Local Dynamic Model of Large Eddy Simulation to a Marine Propeller Wake
Authors: Young Lien , Zheng Xing
Published: July 2023

With recent development of computer technology, the use of large eddy simulation method to solve industrial problems is gaining acceptance. From a theoretical and applied perspective, a local dynamic k-equation subgrid-scale model is applied to study the flow over a marine propeller. This local dynamic SGS model of LES have already been used in simple flows such as classical Taylor-Green vortex flow to investigate its robustness and superior than other dynamic SGS models. In this paper it will be applied to a more complex flows, i.e., simulation of a marine propeller wake, to further evaluate its ability range. 42 intentionally selected numerical experiments were conducted. The results of this local dynamic model of LES shows some superior than the dynamic Smagorinsky model, and well captures the wake evolution mechanism of a propeller, although which actually depends on its geometry.
Correction: Hsiao et al. Claspin-Dependent and -Independent Chk1 Activation by a Panel of Biological Stresses. Biomolecules 2023, 13, 125
Authors: Hsiao Hao-Wen , Yang Chi-Chun , Masai Hisao
Published: July 2023

In the original publication [...]
The Prognostic and Predictive Value of Human Gastrointestinal Microbiome and Exosomal mRNA Expression of PD-L1 and IFNγ for Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors Response in Metastatic Melanoma Patients: PROTOCOL TRIAL
Authors: Erman Ana , Ignjatović Marija , Leskovšek Katja , Miceska Simona , Lampreht Tratar Urša , Bošnjak Maša , Kloboves Prevodnik Veronika , Čemažar Maja , Kandolf Sekulovič Lidija , Avguštin Gorazd , Ocvirk Janja , Mesti Tanja
Published: July 2023

Background: Immunotherapy has been successful in treating advanced melanoma, but a large proportion of patients do not respond to the treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). Preclinical and small cohort studies suggest gastrointestinal microbiome composition and exosomal mRNA expression of PD-L1 and IFNγ from the primary tumor, stool and body fluids as potential biomarkers for response. Methods: Patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors as a first line treatment for metastatic melanoma are recruted to this prospective study. Stool samples are submitted before the start of treatment, at the 12th (+/−2) week and 28th (+/−2) week, and at the occurrence of event (suspected disease progression/hyperprogression, immune-related adverse event (irAE), deterioration). Peripheral venous blood samples are taken additionally at the same time points for cytologic and molecular tests. Histological material from the tumor tissue is obtained before the start of immunotherapy treatment. Primary objectives are to determine whether the human gastrointestinal microbiome (bacterial and viral) and the exosomal mRNA expression of PD-L1 and IFNγ and its dynamics predicts the response to treatment with PD-1 and CTLA-4 inhibitors and its association with the occurrence of irAE. The response is evaluated radiologically with imaging methods in accordance with the irRECIST criteria. Conclusions: This is the first study to combine and investigate multiple potential predictive and prognostic biomarkers and their dynamics in first line ICI in metastatic melanoma patients.
Exploratory Longitudinal Study of Ocular Structural and Visual Functional Changes in Subjects at High Genetic Risk of Developing Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: López-Cuenca Inés , Sánchez-Puebla Lidia , Salobrar-García Elena , Álvarez-Gutierrez María , Elvira-Hurtado Lorena , Barabash Ana , Ramírez-Toraño Federico , Fernández-Albarral José A. , Matamoros José A. , Nebreda Alberto , García-Colomo Alejandra , Ramírez Ana I. , Salazar Juan J. , Gil Pedro , Maestú Fernando , Ramírez José M. , de Hoz Rosa
Published: July 2023

This study aimed to analyze the evolution of visual changes in cognitively healthy individuals at risk for Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Participants with a first-degree family history of AD (FH+) and carrying the Ε4+ allele for the ApoE gene (ApoE ε4+) underwent retinal thickness analysis using optical coherence tomography (OCT) and visual function assessments, including visual acuity (VA), contrast sensitivity (CS), color perception, perception digital tests, and visual field analysis. Structural analysis divided participants into FH+ ApoE ε4+ and FH− ApoE ε4− groups, while functional analysis further categorized them by age (40–60 years and over 60 years). Over the 27-month follow-up, the FH+ ApoE ε4+ group exhibited thickness changes in all inner retinal layers. Comparing this group to the FH− ApoE ε4− group at 27 months revealed progressing changes in the inner nuclear layer. In the FH+ ApoE ε4+ 40–60 years group, no progression of visual function changes was observed, but an increase in VA and CS was maintained at 3 and 12 cycles per degree, respectively, compared to the group without AD risk at 27 months. In conclusion, cognitively healthy individuals at risk for AD demonstrated progressive retinal structural changes over the 27-month follow-up, while functional changes remained stable.
Application of a Response Surface Method for the Optimization of the Hydrothermal Synthesis of Magnetic NiCo2O4 Desulfurization Catalytic Powders
Authors: Zhang Yinke , Li Lu , Shang Zihan , Xu Hang
Published: July 2023

In this study, nickel cobaltate (NiCo2O4) powders are employed as a catalyst in conjunction with persulfate for the development of a catalytic oxidation system to enhance fuel desulfurization. The hydrothermal synthesis conditions of NiCo2O4 powders, which significantly influenced the desulfurization efficiency, were optimized using a response surface methodology with a Box–Behnken design. These conditions were ranked in the following order: calcination temperature > hydrothermal temperature > calcination time > hydrothermal time. Through the optimization process, the ideal preparation conditions were determined as follows: a hydrothermal temperature of 143 °C, hydrothermal time of 6.1 h, calcination temperature of 330 °C, and calcination time of 3.7 h. Under these optimized conditions, the predicted desulfurization rate was approximately 85.8%. The experimental results closely matched the prediction, yielding a desulfurization rate of around 84%, with a minimal error of only 2.1%. To characterize the NiCo2O4 powders prepared under the optimal conditions, XRD, SEM, and TEM analyses were conducted. The analysis revealed that the microscopic morphology of NiCo2O4 exhibited a rectangular sheet structure, with an average particle size of 20 nm. Additionally, fan-shaped NiCo2O4 particles were observed as a result of linear and bundle agglomerations. Thus, this work is innovative in its ability to synthesize nano-catalysts using hydrothermal synthesis in a controllable manner and establishing a correlation between the hydrothermal synthesis conditions and catalytic activity.
Upwelling in Marginal Seas and Its Association with Climate Change Scenario—A Comparative Review
Authors: Satar Muhammad Naim , Akhir Mohd Fadzil , Zainol Zuraini , Chung Jing Xiang
Published: July 2023

After Bakun proposed his hypothesis in 1990 regarding upwelling under climate change, researchers conducted intensive studies to obtain the trends, current status, and future predictions of upwelling. Numerous studies have mainly focused on four major upwelling areas, which are part of the Eastern Boundary Upwelling System (EBUS). However, despite its importance, little attention has been given to the marginal seas upwelling areas such as the South China Sea (SCS), Arabian Sea, Baltic Sea, and other small-scale upwelling locations. Here, we combined several published studies to develop a new synthesis describing climate change impacts on these areas. There had been uncertainty regarding the intensification of upwelling, depending on the locations, data type, and method used. For the SCS, Vietnam and the northern SCS showed intensifying upwelling trends, while the Taiwan Strait showed a decreasing trend. Separate studies in eastern Hainan and the Arabian Sea (Somali and Oman) showed contrasting results, where both increasing and decreasing trends of upwelling had been recorded. Like the SCS, the Baltic Sea showed different results for different areas as they found negative trends along the Polish, Latvian and Estonian, and positive trends along the Swedish coast of the Baltic Sea and the Finnish coast of the Gulf of Finland. While small scales upwelling in La Guajira and southern Java showed increasing and decreasing trends, respectively. All of these limited studies suggest that researchers need to conduct a lot more studies, including the future projection of upwelling, by using climate models to develop a new understanding of how the upwelling in the SCS responds to climate change.
Occlusal Plane Steepness and Profile Change Following TAD-Based One-Step Retraction on Four-Unit Extraction Cases: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Mahmood Trefa Mohammed Ali
Published: July 2023

Background: With the introduction of high-tech appliances, anchorage devices, and improved patient awareness of the risks associated with maxillofacial surgery, treating complex situations with orthodontic treatment has become more difficult in recent years. This study was conducted to demonstrate that orienting the occlusal plane, all the dental, skeletal, and soft tissue parameters, would be improved and to find which of these parameters could be correlated with the steepness of the occlusal plane. Materials and methods: This was a retrospective study including 40 cephalometric interpretations for patients who were planned for four-unit extractions (20 cephalometric radiographies before treatment and 20 after finishing the treatment). All were treated in the same orthodontic clinic with the same protocol using the McLaughlin–Bennett–Trevisi (MBT) prescription, with 22 slots and one-step retraction following four-unit extraction based on temporary anchorage devices (TADs). Results: There was no significant change in the canting of the occlusal plane, and it remained relatively stable from 6.31° to 7.55°, while all the soft tissue-related cephalometric measurements were reduced significantly, except the nasolabial angle, as the relation of the upper and lower lip to the esthetic line of Ricketts’ (E-Line) was reduced by 2.91 and 2.46°, respectively; furthermore, the angle of convexity was reduced from 10.92° to 9.79°. Besides, the upper incisor display was reduced by 0.38° Conclusions: Both the Frankfort mandibular angle and upper-incisor-to-Frankfort horizontal plane were significant parametric factors associated with profile change after extraction treatment having a positive 0.01-level Pearson association with occlusal plane steepness. Therefore, using the MBT prescription with TAD-based retraction is one of the favorable methods for the management of complex cases.
Ultrasonographic Signs of Cytomegalovirus Infection in the Fetus—A Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Rybak-Krzyszkowska Magda , Górecka Joanna , Huras Hubert , Staśkiewicz Magdalena , Kondracka Adrianna , Staniczek Jakub , Górczewski Wojciech , Borowski Dariusz , Grzesiak Mariusz , Krzeszowski Waldemar , Massalska-Wolska Magdalena , Jaczyńska Renata
Published: July 2023

Background: congenital cytomegalovirus (cCMV) infection during pregnancy is a significant risk factor for fetal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. CMV detection is based on the traditional ultrasound (US) and MRI (magnetic resonance) approach. Methods: the present review used the PRISMA protocol for identification of studies associated with CMV infection and sonographic analysis. Various search terms were created using keywords which were used to identify references from Medline, Pubmed, PsycInfo, Scopus and Web of Science. Results: sonographic analysis of the cCMV infection identified several of the key features associated with fetuses. The presence of abnormal patterns of periventricular echogenicity, ventriculomegaly and intraparenchymal calcifications is indicative of CMV infection in the fetus. Hyperechogenic bowels were seen frequently. These results correlate well with MRI data, especially when targeted transvaginal fetal neurosonography was carried out. Conclusions: ultrasonography is a reliable indicator of fetal anomalies, due to cCMV. Fetal brain and organ changes are conclusive indications of infection, but many of the ultrasonographic signs of fetal abnormality could be due to any viral infections; thus, further research is needed to demarcate CMV infection from others, based on the ultrasonographic approach. CMV infection should always be an indication for targeted fetal neurosonography, optimally by the transvaginal approach.
MRI-Based Evaluation of the Flexor Digitorum Superficialis Anatomy: Investigating the Prevalence and Morphometry of the “Chiasma Antebrachii”
Authors: Elsner Clara , Kunz Andreas Steven , Wagner Nicole , Huflage Henner , Hübner Stefan , Luetkens Karsten Sebastian , Bley Thorsten Alexander , Schmitt Rainer , Ergün Süleyman , Grunz Jan-Peter
Published: July 2023

Recent dissection studies resulted in the introduction of the term “chiasma antebrachii”, which represents an intersection of the flexor digitorum superficialis (FDS) tendons for digits 2 and 3 in the distal third of the forearm. This retrospective investigation aimed to provide an MRI-based morphologic analysis of the chiasma antebrachii. In 89 patients (41 women, 39.3 ± 21.3 years), MRI examinations of the forearm (2010–2021) were reviewed by two radiologists, who evaluated all studies for the presence and length of the chiasma as well as its distance from the distal radioulnar and elbow joint. The chiasma antebrachii was identified in the distal third of the forearm in 88 patients (98.9%), while one intersection was located more proximally in the middle part. The chiasma had a median length of 28 mm (interquartile range: 24–35 mm). Its distances to the distal radioulnar and elbow joint were 16 mm (8–25 mm) and 215 mm (187–227 mm), respectively. T1-weighted post-contrast sequences were found to be superior to T2- or proton-density-weighted sequences in 71 cases (79.8%). To conclude, the chiasma antebrachii is part of the standard FDS anatomy. Knowledge of its morphology is important, e.g., in targeted injections of therapeutics or reconstructive surgery.
Improved AP-Clustering-Based AUV-Aided Data Collection Method for UWSNs
Authors: Xia Na , Luo Linmei , Wang Yin , Zhang Ke , Yang Jun , Wu Qiong , Yuan Chenguang
Published: July 2023

In underwater sensor networks, nodes are usually sparsely arranged, and autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) are often used to collect data by moving. However, it is a key problem for AUVs to shorten the path as much as possible to guarantee whole-network data acquisition. Aiming to solve this problem, this paper proposes an AUV underwater data collection method based on affinity propagation clustering. First, this clustering theory is used to select the nodes with large residual energy as cluster head nodes, and the clustering results are dynamically adjusted according to the communication radius of nodes to obtain the final clustering results. Finally, the cluster head nodes of the clusters are sequentially traversed using the traveling salesman problem, and an optimal path of AUV is planned to complete data collection for the whole network. A large number of simulation experiments verify that this method can effectively plan the mobile path of AUVs.
Auxiliary Power Supply System with Parallel-Connected DC–AC Inverters for Low-Floor Light Rail Vehicle
Authors: Kerdtuad Paiwan , Chaiamarit Kunjana , Kittiratsatcha Supat
Published: July 2023

This research proposes a roof-mounted auxiliary power supply (APS) system for 600 VDC low-floor light rail vehicles (LRVs). The proposed APS system consists of five parallel-connected dc–ac inverter modules (modules 1–5). Inverter modules 1 and 2 are three-phase dc–ac inverters for the compressor motors of the air conditioning system, and inverter modules 3 and 4 are three-phase dc–ac inverters for the air pump motors of the air supply system. Inverter module 5 is a single-phase dc–ac inverter for the 220 VAC power supply of onboard electric loads. Simulations and experiments were carried out under variable load torques and output frequencies for modules 1–4 and under full and no resistive loads for module 5. The measured total input current and total input power of the proposed APS system under the full-load condition are 114.36 A and 68.84 kW. The total efficiency of the proposed APS system (modules 1–5) is 97.05%. The proposed APS system is suitable for 600 VDC low-floor LRVs. The novelty of this research lies in the use of five parallel-connected inverter modules, as opposed to the three-phase output transformer or isolated dc–dc converter in the early and conventional APS systems. Specifically, the proposed APS system requires neither a three-phase output transformer nor an isolated dc–dc converter.
A Robust Adaptive Hierarchical Learning Crow Search Algorithm for Feature Selection
Authors: Chen Yilin , Ye Zhi , Gao Bo , Wu Yiqi , Yan Xiaohu , Liao Xiangyun
Published: July 2023

Feature selection is a multi-objective problem, which can eliminate irrelevant and redundant features and improve the accuracy of classification at the same time. Feature selection is a great challenge to balance the conflict between the two goals of selection accuracy and feature selection ratio. The evolutionary algorithm has been proved to be suitable for feature selection. Recently, a new meta-heuristic algorithm named the crow search algorithm has been applied to the problem of feature selection. This algorithm has the advantages of few parameters and achieved good results. However, due to the lack of diversity in late iterations, the algorithm falls into local optimal problems. To solve this problem, we propose the adaptive hierarchical learning crow search algorithm (AHL-CSA). Firstly, an adaptive hierarchical learning technique was used to adaptive divide the crow population into several layers, with each layer learning from the top layer particles and the topmost layer particles learning from each other. This strategy encourages more exploration by lower individuals and more exploitation by higher individuals, thus improving the diversity of the population. In addition, in order to make full use of the search information of each level in the population and reduce the impact of local optimization on the overall search performance of the algorithm, we introduce an information sharing mechanism to help adjust the search direction of the population and improve the convergence accuracy of the algorithm. Finally, different difference operators are used to update the positions of particles at different levels. The diversity of the population is further improved by using different difference operators. The performance of the method was tested on 18 standard UCI datasets and compared with eight other representative algorithms. The comparison of experimental results shows that the proposed algorithm is superior to other competitive algorithms. Furthermore, the Wilcoxon rank-sum test was used to verify the validity of the results.
Evaluation of Ultra–High–Pressure Sterilization in Terms of Bactericidal Effect, Qualities, and Shelf Life of ‘Xinli No. 7’ (Pyrus sinkiangensis) Pear Juice
Authors: Gan Xiaojing , Chen Zhizhou , Wang Liwen , Liu Wenhui , Ma Qianyun , Li Rongbin , Wang Jie , Mu Jianlou
Published: July 2023

In this study, ultra–high–pressure sterilization (UHPS) of Xinli No. 7 juice (XL7) was explored and optimized. A challenge to implement UHPS in juice as a full alternative to thermal treatment could be represented by the adoption of a pressure level of up to 500 MPa for 20 min at one cycle followed by the packaging in aseptic conditions. It was found that UHPS and HS treatments could effectively kill the microorganisms in XL7 juice but HS treatment would inevitably lose the nutritional quality in the juice, while UHPS treatment could better maintain the glyconic acid content, functional components, and antioxidant activity and reduce Browning degree and improve the stability of XL7 juice. The deterioration rate of UHPS and HS–treated XL7 juice increased with the increased storage temperature. The predicted shelf life of UHPS and HS–treated XL7 juice was 68 and 41 days at 4 °C, respectively. Collectively, UHPS treatment combined with low–temperature storage might be an effective way to prolong the shelf life of XL7 juice.
Analysis of Migrant Cyclic PET Oligomers in Olive Oil and Food Simulants Using UHPLC-qTOF-MS
Authors: Diamantidou Dimitra , Tsochatzis Emmanouil , Kalogiannis Stavros , Alberto Lopes Joao , Theodoridis Georgios , Gika Helen
Published: July 2023

Oligomers are a particular category of non-intentionally added substances (NIAS) that may be present in food contact materials (FCMs), such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and consequently migrate into foods. Here, an ultra-high-pressure liquid chromatography quadruple time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-qTOF-MS) method was developed for the analysis of 1st series cyclic PET oligomers in virgin olive oil (VOO) following a QuEChERS clean-up protocol. Oligomer migration was evaluated with two different migration experiments using bottles from virgin and recycled PET: one with VOO samples stored in household conditions for a year and one using the food simulant D2 (95% v/v ethanol in water) at 60 °C for 10 days. Calibration curves were constructed with fortified VOO samples, with the LOQs ranging from 10 to 50 µg L−1 and the recoveries ranging from 86.6 to 113.0%. Results showed no migration of PET oligomers in VOO. However, in the simulated study, significant amounts of all oligomers were detected, with the migration of cyclic PET trimers from recycled bottles being the most abundant. Additional substances were tentatively identified as linear derivatives of PET oligomers. Again, open trimer structures in recycled bottles gave the most significant signals.