bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Empowering Chinese university health service providers to become mental health champions: insights from the ACE-LYNX intervention
Authors: Wang Fenghua , Gao Jianguo , Hao Suyu , Tsang Ka Tat , Wong Josephine Pui-Hing , Fung Kenneth , Li Alan Tai-Wai , Jia Cunxian , Cheng Shengli
Published: March 2024

Background

Evidence shows that there is a high prevalence of mental health challenges including depression and anxiety, among Chinese university students. Providing mental health care providers with professional training is crucial to implementing effective mental health promotion initiatives in university settings. Globally, the focus of the mental health system is shifting to recovery and the importance of empowerment is increasingly being emphasized. There is a call to integrate empowerment education into professional training programs for health service providers with the goal of mobilizing them to become mental health champions capable of advancing mental health care.

Method

The ACE-LYNX (Acceptance and Commitment to Empowerment–Linking Youth and Xin i.e., “heart(s)” in Chinese) intervention took place at six universities in Jinan, Shandong Province, China. It aimed to promote mental health literacy and build capacity among mental health service providers (MHSPs) to enable them to become mental health champions at their universities and beyond. A total of 139 university MHSPs participated. We collected pre-, immediate post- and three-month-post-surveys. In addition, we recruited forty-five participants to take part in three-month- post-intervention focus group interviews to explore their experiences taking part in ACE-LYNX and applying the knowledge, skills, and insights they gained from the intervention.

Result

This paper reports on the effects of empowerment education, which is a key component of ACE-LYNX, on the MHSPs. Four themes were identified: 1) conscious awareness and behavioral change through psychological empowerment users; 2) professional insights and motivation for organizational empowerment; 3) non-self in the continuum of collective empowerment; and 4) interdisciplinary challenges and divergences in empowerment action.

Discussion

We found that it is critical to integrate empowerment education into professional training. The process of MHSPs developing their empowerment practice is characterized by their moving from individual to collective empowerment along a continuum, with organizational and collective empowerment taking place in a longer time frame. Experiential learning, empathy education, and critical reflection accelerated the continuous iterative transformative process of empowerment practices. To advance the integration of empowerment into mental health care, the engagement of organizational decision-makers and policy makers in empowerment training is critical to ensure alignment of empowerment values and competence at all levels of service provision.
Psychosocial risk profiles to address future health emergencies: a country study during the COVID-19 lockdown period in Colombia
Authors: Bautista-Gomez Martha Milena , Millán De Lange Anthony Constant , Palacio Sañudo Jorge Enrique , Zuluaga Laura Sofia , Bolívar Pimiento Daniel Alfonso , Toloza Perez Yesith Guillermo , Malagon-Rojas Jeadran , Mercado-Reyes Marcela Maria , Ospina Martha
Published: March 2024

Introduction

The different strategies used worldwide to curb the COVID-19 pandemic between 2020 and 2021 had a negative psychosocial impact, which was disproportionately higher for socially and economically vulnerable groups. This article seeks to identify the psychosocial impact of the confinement period during the COVID-19 pandemic for the Colombian population by identifying profiles that predict the levels of different mental health indicators (feelings of fear, positive emotions or feelings during free time, and work impact) and based on them, characterize the risk factors and protection that allows us to propose guidelines for prevention or recovery from future health emergencies.

Methods

This is an observational, cross-sectional, retrospective ex post facto study. Multistage cluster probabilistic sampling and binary logistic regression analysis were used to predict extreme levels of various mental health indicators based on psychosocial indicators of the COVID-19 confinement period and to identify risk and protection factors,

Results

A relationship was established between the combination of some of the different psychosocial factors evaluated (this combination being the predictive profile identified) with each of the three main variables: feeling of fear (n = 8,247; R = 0.32; p = 0.00; Poverall = 62.4%; 𝜔overall = 0.25; 1-𝛽overall = 1.00), positive emotions or feelings during free time (n = 6,853; R = 0.25; p = 0.00; Poverall = 59.1%; 𝜔overall = 0.18; 1-𝛽overall = 1.00) and labour impact (n = 4,573; R = 0.47; p = 0.63; Poverall = 70.4%; 𝜔overall = 0.41; 1-𝛽overall = 1.00), with social vulnerability determined by sociodemographic factors that were common in all profiles (sex, age, ethnicity and socioeconomic level) and conditions associated with job insecurity (unemployed, loss of health insurance and significant changes to job’s requirements) and place of residence (city).

Conclusion

For future health emergencies, it is necessary to (i) mitigate the socio-employment impact from emergency containment measures in a scaled and differentiated manner at the local level, (ii) propose prevention and recovery actions through psychosocial and mental health care accessible to the entire population, especially vulnerable groups, (iii) Design and implement work, educational and recreational adaptation programs that can be integrated into confinement processes.
Translating genetic findings to epigenetics: identifying the mechanisms associated with aging after high-radiation exposure on earth and in space
Authors: Ruprecht Nathan A. , Singhal Sonalika , Sens Donald , Singhal Sandeep K.
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Exposure to radiation is a health concern within and beyond the Earth's atmosphere for aircrew and astronauts in their respective austere environments. The biological effects of radiation exposure from a multiomics standpoint are relatively unexplored and stand to shed light on tailored monitoring and treatment for those in these career fields. To establish a reference variable for genetic damage, biological age seems to be closely associated with the effect of radiation. Following a genetic-based study, this study explores the epigenetic landscape of radiation exposure along with its associative effects on aging processes.

Methods

We imported the results of the genetics-based study that was a secondary analysis of five publicly available datasets (noted as Data1). The overlap of these genes with new data involving methylation data from two datasets (noted as Data2) following similar secondary analysis procedures is the basis of this study. We performed the standard statistical analysis on these datasets along with supervised and unsupervised learning to create preranked gene lists used for functional analysis in Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA).

Results

There were 664 genes of interest from Data1 and 577 genes from Data2. There were 40 statistically significant methylation probes within 500 base pairs of the gene's transcription start site and 10 probes within 100 base pairs, which are discussed in depth. IPA yielded 21 significant pathways involving metabolism, cellular development, cell death, and diseases. Compared to gold standards for gestational age, we observed relatively low error and standard deviation using newly identified biomarkers.

Conclusion

We have identified 17 methylated genes that exhibited particular interest and potential in future studies. This study suggests that there are common trends in oxidative stress, cell development, and metabolism that indicate an association between aging processes and the effects of ionizing radiation exposure.
The role of correspondence analysis in medical research
Authors: Žlahtič Bojan , Kokol Peter , Blažun Vošner Helena , Završnik Jernej
Published: March 2024

Correspondence analysis (CA) is a multivariate statistical and visualization technique. CA is extremely useful in analyzing either two- or multi-way contingency tables, representing some degree of correspondence between columns and rows. The CA results are visualized in easy-to-interpret “bi–plots,” where the proximity of items (values of categorical variables) represents the degree of association between presented items. In other words, items positioned near each other are more associated than those located farther away. Each bi-plot has two dimensions, named during the analysis. The naming of dimensions adds a qualitative aspect to the analysis. Correspondence analysis may support medical professionals in finding answers to many important questions related to health, wellbeing, quality of life, and similar topics in a simpler but more informal way than by using more complex statistical or machine learning approaches. In that way, it can be used for dimension reduction and data simplification, clustering, classification, feature selection, knowledge extraction, visualization of adverse effects, or pattern detection.
Strategies to develop an LGBTQIA+-inclusive adolescent sexual health program evaluation
Authors: Balén Zabryna , Pliskin Emma , Cook Elizabeth , Manlove Jennifer , Steiner Riley , Cervantes Marisa , Garrido Milagros , Nuñez-Eddy Claudia , Day Maeve
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Adolescent sexual health interventions are increasingly incorporating content that is inclusive of LGBTQIA+ youth (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning, intersex, asexual, and other marginalized sexualities and genders). Evaluations of such programs must also be inclusive to enhance the validity of evaluation results and avoid further marginalization. We present strategies for increasing LGBTQIA+-inclusivity based on our evaluation of SafeSpace, a sexual health curriculum.

Methods

To design an LGBTQIA+-inclusive program evaluation, we leveraged LGBTQIA+ research staff’s insights, pursued a parental consent waiver, developed an inclusive recruitment plan, and crafted demographic and sexual behavior survey measures with input from youth and equity experts. We conducted a pilot study with 42 youth ages 14–17 to assess the feasibility and efficacy of our strategies.

Results

We obtained a parental consent waiver and recruited a majority LGBTQIA+ pilot study sample (62%). Using themes from cognitive interviews with youth and experts regarding inclusive framing and use of plain language, we refined demographic measures and expanded sexual behavior measures.

Conclusion

Findings suggest that the strategies used to enhance LGBTQIA+-inclusivity in our evaluation of SafeSpace were effective in respectfully and more accurately capturing a fuller range of experiences and identities of LGBTQIA+ and cis-straight youth. The strategies and survey measures developed for this study can be applied to increase LGBTQIA+-inclusivity in other adolescent sexual health program evaluations.
Motor flexibility to stabilize the toe position during obstacle crossing in older adults: an investigation using an uncontrolled manifold analysis
Authors: Suda Yuki , Kodama Kentaro , Nakamura Takahito , Sakazaki Juntaro , Higuchi Takahiro
Published: March 2024

Introduction

An age-related decrease in the ability to exploit the abundant degrees of freedom of the body, referred to as motor flexibility, leads to a heightened fall risk. The present study investigated motor flexibility to stabilize the toe position during obstacle crossing in older adults and its correlation with the magnitude of foot elevation.

Methods

Twenty-six older adults (70.9 ± 7.4 years old) and 21 younger adults (25.4 ± 5.0 years old) walked and crossed an obstacle, during which the dominant limb was always the leading limb. An uncontrolled manifold (UCM) analysis was used to quantify the flexibility during obstacle crossing as the synergy index, with the vertical toe position being regarded as the performance variable and the segment angles of the lower limbs as the elemental variables.

Results and discussion

The results showed that older participants had a significantly lower synergy index for the trailing limb before the moment of obstacle crossing than younger participants, suggesting reduced flexibility in part. The results also showed that, regardless of age, foot elevation was negatively correlated with the synergy index, suggesting that a so-called “conservative strategy” (i.e., a tendency to show extraordinarily high foot elevation to ensure collision avoidance) may be related to their reduced motor flexibility.
Performance Improvement of a High Loading Centrifugal Compressor with Vaned Diffuser by Hub Contour Optimization
Authors: Wu Yunfeng , Li Qingkuo , Yuan Hang , Li Ziliang , Zhou Shiji , Han Ge , Lu Xingen
Published: March 2024

High-pressure ratio centrifugal compressors’ diffusers face challenges from high-velocity, non-uniform flow at the impeller outlet, decreasing efficiency and stall margin. To address this, this paper presents a novel vaned diffuser passage design method that successfully improved the compressor’s performance. An optimization method using axisymmetric hub contours and NURBS curves was applied to modify the diffuser’s design. After optimization, centrifugal compressor peak efficiency increased by 0.78%, and stall margin expanded from 12.8% to 20.4%. Analysis at the peak efficiency point showed loss reduction mainly from decreased recirculation and mixing losses in the diffuser’s vaneless and semi-vaneless spaces. Furthermore, correlation analysis and Mach number distribution revealed that flow behavior at the diffuser’s leading edge significantly influences efficiency. Consequently, design principles emphasize satisfying specific Mach number distribution rules at the diffuser’s leading edge under certain inflow conditions for optimal performance.
An Event-Driven Link-Level Simulator for the Validation of AFDX and Ethernet Avionics Networks
Authors: Vera-Soto Pablo , Villegas Javier , Fortes Sergio , Pulido José , Escaño Vicente , Ortiz Rafael , Barco Raquel
Published: March 2024

Aircraft are composed of many electronic systems: sensors, displays, navigation equipment, and communication elements. These elements require a reliable interconnection, which is a major challenge for communication networks since high reliability and predictability requirements must be verified for safe operation. In addition, their verification via hardware deployments is limited because these are costly and it is difficult to try different architectures and configurations, thus delaying design and development in this area. Therefore, verification at early stages in the design process is of great importance and must be supported with simulation. In this context, this work presents an event-driven link-level framework and simulator for the validation of avionics networks. The tool presented supports communication protocols commonly used in avionics, such as Avionics Full-Duplex Switched Ethernet (AFDX), as well as Ethernet, which is used with static routing. Also, the simulator provides accurate results by employing realistic models for various devices. The proposed platform was evaluated in the Clean Sky’s Disruptive Cockpit for Large Passenger Aircraft architecture scenario, showing the capabilities of the simulator. Verification speed is a key factor in its application, so the computational cost was analyzed, proving that the execution time is linearly dependent on the number of messages sent and that the increase in the number of nodes has few quadratic components.
Meteorological Characteristics of a Continuous Ice-Covered Event on Ultra-High Voltage Transmission Lines in Yunnan Region in 2021
Authors: He Sen , Song Yunhai , Huang Heyan , He Yuhao , Zhou Shaohui , Gao Zhiqiu
Published: March 2024

Yunnan plays a pivotal role in transmitting electricity from west to east within China’s Southern Power Grid. During 7–13 January 2021, a large-scale continuous ice-covering event of ultra-high voltage (UHV) transmission lines occurred in the Qujing area of eastern Yunnan Province. Based on ERA5 reanalysis data and meteorological observation data of UHV transmission line icing in China’s Southern Power Grid, the synoptic causes of the icing are comprehensively analyzed from various perspectives, including weather situations, vertical stratification of temperature and humidity, local meteorological elements, and atmospheric circulation indices. The results indicate a strong East Asian trough and a blocking high directing northern airflow southward ahead of the ridge. Cold air enters the Qujing area and combines with warm and moist air from the subtropical high pressure of 50–110° E. As warm and cold air masses form a quasi-stationary front over the northern mountainous area of Qujing due to topographic uplift, the mechanism of “supercooling and warm rain” caused by the “warm–cold” temperature profile structure leads to freezing rain events. Large-scale circulation indices in the Siberian High, East Asian Trough, and 50–110° E Subtropical High regions provided clear precursor signals within 0–2 days before the icing events.
Investigation of Tropical Cyclones in the North Indian Ocean and the Linkage to Extreme Weather Events over Sri Lanka
Authors: Jayasekara Sachintha , Ushiyama Tomoki , Rasmy Mohamed , Kamae Youichi
Published: March 2024

Heavy rainfall due to tropical cyclones (TCs) in the North Indian Ocean (NIO) adversely impacts nations frequently. Though extensive research has focused on TCs in the NIO, less attention has been given to the connection between TCs and extreme events in Sri Lanka. This study examined atmospheric characteristics during sixteen extreme events, focusing on linkages between TCs, the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD), and mechanisms behind heavy rainfall associated with TCs over Sri Lanka. The results showed that in the pre-monsoon period, TCs move northward with high water vapor (WV) content accumulated in the Southern Hemisphere. This main WV flow over the equatorial Indian Ocean (EIO) is connected with TCs, causing considerable damage in the southwestern part of Sri Lanka. During negative IOD years, strong westerly winds create cyclonic circulations on either side of the equator. Conversely, during the post-monsoon period, the IOD phase has no significant effect. TCs generally followed westward tracks, supported by winds from the Northern Hemisphere, and caused heavy rainfall in the Eastern, Northern, and Northcentral provinces in Sri Lanka. These TCs are isolated from the main WV flow over EIO. Such observed common characteristics during pre-monsoon and post-monsoon seasons are key factors contributing to extreme rainfall in Sri Lanka.
Numerical Investigation of Thermal Management of a Large Format Pouch Battery Using Combination of CPCM and Liquid Cooling
Authors: Xu Caiqi , Ma Chao , Souri Mohammad , Moztarzadeh Hadi , Nasr Esfahani Mohammad , Jabbari Masoud , Hosseinzadeh Elham
Published: March 2024

As electric vehicles (EVs) gain market dominance, ensuring safety during the battery usage is crucial. This paper presents a new thermal management approach to address the battery heat accumulation challenge through a novel combination of composite phase change material (CPCM) with liquid cooling systems. An optimised hybrid cooling model is developed to evaluate the proposed battery thermal management system (BTMS) under high-temperature and high-power conditions. Benchmark studies are conducted to assess the impact of inlet position, inlet flow rate, and flow channel distribution on the cooling performance to achieve a uniform temperature distribution within the battery. The optimised BTMS, consisting of a five-cell battery pack, demonstrates a maximum temperature of 41.15 °C and a temperature difference of 4.89 °C in a operating condition at 36 °C with a discharge rate of 3 C. The BTMS outperforms the initial model, reducing the maximum temperature by 1.5%, temperature difference by 5%, and liquid fraction by 13%, with a slight (1.3%) increase in weight. The cooling performance is most efficient at a liquid flow rate of 0.1 m/s, minimising energy consumption. The proposed BTMS with CPCM-3 is also sufficient enough to keep the battery pack under a thermal runaway event. Overall, the theoretical simulation highlights the BTMS’s ability to effectively control battery temperatures and temperature differences, ensuring safe operation during high-temperature and high-power conditions in practical EV usage.
Nerve Reconstruction Using ActiGraft Blood Clot in Rabbit Acute Peripheral Injury Model: Preliminary Study
Authors: Rochkind Shimon , Sirota Sharon , Kushnir Alon
Published: March 2024

This preliminary study aimed to investigate an ActiGraft blood clot implant (RedDress Ltd., Pardes-Hanna, Israel) attempting to treat and induce the regeneration of a completely injured peripheral nerve with a massive loss defect. The tibial portion of the sciatic nerve in 11 rabbits was transected, and a 25 mm nerve gap was reconnected using a collagen tube. A comparison was performed between the treatment group (eight rabbits; reconnection using a tube filled with ActiGraft blood clot) and the control group (three rabbits; gap reconnection using an empty tube). The post-operative follow-up period lasted 18 weeks and included electrophysiological and histochemical assessments. The pathological severity score was high in the tube cross sections of the control group (1.33) compared to the ActiGraft blood clot treatment group (0.63). Morphometric analysis showed a higher percentage of the positive myelin basic protein (MBP) stained area in the ActiGraft blood clot group (19.57%) versus the control group (3.67%). These differences were not statistically significant due to the small group sizes and the large intra-group variability. The results of this preliminary study suggest that the application of an ActiGraft blood clot (into the collagen tube) can enable nerve recovery. However, a future study using a larger animal group is required to achieve objective statistical results.
In Vivo Total Ankle Arthroplasty Kinematic Evaluation: A Prospective Radiostereometric Analysis
Authors: Caravelli Silvio , Bragonzoni Laura , Zinno Raffaele , Vocale Emanuele , Pinelli Erika , Barone Giuseppe , Vara Giulio , Di Paolo Stefano , Zaffagnini Stefano , Mosca Massimiliano
Published: March 2024

Ankle osteoarthritis (OA) represents a significant social burden and is one of the main causes of chronic disability in a rapidly growing part of the world’s population. Total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) has become increasingly popular despite the poor results obtained with the first dedicated designs. The purpose of this paper was to evaluate the ankle kinematics, in vivo and under weight-bearing conditions, of a TAA through a dynamic model-based radiostereometric analysis (MB-RSA). The clinical evaluation was performed by administering the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society ankle–hindfoot score and Short Form-36 questionnaires. The kinematic evaluation was conducted through MB-RSA during the execution of an open kinetic chain and a closed kinetic chain motor task. Double radiographic images of the ankle joint were processed using dedicated software to obtain a 3D reconstruction of the ankle prosthetic components’ motion. Eighteen patients (five females) completed the clinical and instrumental preoperative and postoperative evaluations (age 59.1 ± 10.3). All clinical scores showed a marked improvement (p < 0.005). During the closed kinetic chain motor tasks, the ankle showed a total range of motion (ROM) in dorsi-plantarflexion of 19.84°. The parameters in varus–valgus were recorded. Physiological motion can be achieved in TAA, characterized by a wide range of motion and coupling of movements on the three planes. The results of the present work may help to understand the real movement of a widespread TAA model and possibly to improve future designs and instrumentation.
Glucose Promotes EMMPRIN/CD147 and the Secretion of Pro-Angiogenic Factors in a Co-Culture System of Endothelial Cells and Monocytes
Authors: Ghandour Fransis , Kassem Sameer , Simanovich Elina , Rahat Michal A.
Published: March 2024

Vascular complications in Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients increase morbidity and mortality. In T2DM, angiogenesis is impaired and can be enhanced or reduced in different tissues (“angiogenic paradox”). The present study aimed to delineate differences between macrovascular and microvascular endothelial cells that might explain this paradox. In a monoculture system of human macrovascular (EaHy926) or microvascular (HMEC-1) endothelial cell lines and a monocytic cell line (U937), high glucose concentrations (25 mmole/L) increased the secretion of the pro-angiogenic factors CD147/EMMPRIN, VEGF, and MMP-9 from both endothelial cells, but not from monocytes. Co-cultures of EaHy926/HMEC-1 with U937 enhanced EMMPRIN and MMP-9 secretion, even in low glucose concentrations (5.5 mmole/L), while in high glucose HMEC-1 co-cultures enhanced all three factors. EMMPRIN mediated these effects, as the addition of anti-EMMPRIN antibody decreased VEGF and MMP-9 secretion, and inhibited the angiogenic potential assessed through the wound assay. Thus, the minor differences between the macrovascular and microvascular endothelial cells cannot explain the angiogenic paradox. Metformin, a widely used drug for the treatment of T2DM, inhibited EMMPRIN, VEGF, and MMP-9 secretion in high glucose concentration, and the AMPK inhibitor dorsomorphin enhanced it. Thus, AMPK regulates EMMPRIN, a key factor in diabetic angiogenesis, suggesting that targeting EMMPRIN may help in the treatment of diabetic vascular complications.
Association of NT-proBNP and sST2 with Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction and Oxidative Stress in Patients with Stable Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Lazar-Poloczek Elżbieta , Romuk Ewa , Jacheć Wojciech , Wróbel-Nowicka Karolina , Świętek Agata , Wojciechowska Celina
Published: March 2024

The aim of this study was to analyze the relationship between levels of sST2, NT-proBNP and oxidative stress markers in patients with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) due to non-ischemic cardiomyopathy. A total of 88 patients with HFrEF were divided into four groups based on left ventricular ejection fraction (≤25% and >25%) and NYHA functional class (group 1—LVEF > 25% and NYHA class I or II; group 2—LVEF > 25% and NYHA class III or IV; group III—LVEF ≤ 25% and NYHA class I or II; group IV—LVEF ≤ 25% and NYHA class III or IV). In 39 (44.32%) patients LVEF was reduced below 25%, and 22 of them (56.41%) were in NYHA functional class III/IV. Of the 49 (55.68%) patients with LVEF ≥ 25%, only 18.37% were in NYHA functional class III/IV (p < 0.001). Patients with LVEF ≥ 25% had lower levels of NT-proBNP, total oxidant status (TOS), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and oxidative stress index (OSI). The levels of NT-proBNP but not sST-2 correlated positively with NYHA functional class (p < 0.001) and negatively with LVEF (p < 0.001). The levels of sST-2 were associated with increased TAC (p = 0.009) and uric acid (p = 0.040). These findings indicate that only NT-proBNP was related to the severity of heart failure, whereas sST2 correlated with total antioxidant capacity. Therefore, in stable patients with HFrEF due to dilated cardiomyopathy, sST2 may be an additional biomarker reflecting the redox status, but not the severity of heart failure.
Gender-Specific Effects on the Cardiorespiratory System and Neurotoxicity of Intermittent and Permanent Low-Level Lead Exposures
Authors: Shvachiy Liana , Amaro-Leal Ângela , Machado Filipa , Rocha Isabel , Outeiro Tiago F. , Geraldes Vera
Published: March 2024

Lead exposure is a significant health concern, ranking among the top 10 most harmful substances for humans. There are no safe levels of lead exposure, and it affects multiple body systems, especially the cardiovascular and neurological systems, leading to problems such as hypertension, heart disease, cognitive deficits, and developmental delays, particularly in children. Gender differences are a crucial factor, with women’s reproductive systems being especially vulnerable, resulting in fertility issues, pregnancy complications, miscarriages, and premature births. The globalization of lead exposure presents new challenges in managing this issue. Therefore, understanding the gender-specific implications is essential for developing effective treatments and public health strategies to mitigate the impact of lead-related health problems. This study examined the effects of intermittent and permanent lead exposure on both male and female animals, assessing behaviours like anxiety, locomotor activity, and long-term memory, as well as molecular changes related to astrogliosis. Additionally, physiological and autonomic evaluations were performed, focusing on baro- and chemoreceptor reflexes. The study’s findings revealed that permanent lead exposure has more severe health consequences, including hypertension, anxiety, and reactive astrogliosis, affecting both genders. However, males exhibit greater cognitive, behavioural, and respiratory changes, while females are more susceptible to chemoreflex hypersensitivity. In contrast, intermittent lead exposure leads to hypertension and reactive astrogliosis in both genders. Still, females are more vulnerable to cognitive impairment, increased respiratory frequency, and chemoreflex hypersensitivity, while males show more reactive astrocytes in the hippocampus. Overall, this research emphasizes the importance of not only investigating different types of lead exposure but also considering gender differences in toxicity when addressing this public health concern.
Dynamic Fall Recovery Control for Legged Robots via Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Li Sicen , Pang Yiming , Bai Panju , Hu Shihao , Wang Liquan , Wang Gang
Published: March 2024

Falling is inevitable for legged robots when deployed in unstructured and unpredictable real-world scenarios, such as uneven terrain in the wild. Therefore, to recover dynamically from a fall without unintended termination of locomotion, the robot must possess the complex motor skills required for recovery maneuvers. However, this is exceptionally challenging for existing methods, since it involves multiple unspecified internal and external contacts. To go beyond the limitation of existing methods, we introduced a novel deep reinforcement learning framework to train a learning-based state estimator and a proprioceptive history policy for dynamic fall recovery under external disturbances. The proposed learning-based framework applies to different fall cases indoors and outdoors. Furthermore, we show that the learned fall recovery policies are hardware-feasible and can be implemented on real robots. The performance of the proposed approach is evaluated with extensive trials using a quadruped robot, which shows good effectiveness in recovering the robot after a fall on flat surfaces and grassland.
Enhancing Image-Guided Radiation Therapy for Pancreatic Cancer: Utilizing Aligned Peak Response Beamforming in Flexible Array Transducers
Authors: Feng Ziwei , Sun Edward , China Debarghya , Huang Xinyue , Hooshangnejad Hamed , Gonzalez Eduardo A. , Bell Muyinatu A. Lediju , Ding Kai
Published: March 2024

To develop ultrasound-guided radiotherapy, we proposed an assistant structure with embedded markers along with a novel alternative method, the Aligned Peak Response (APR) method, to alter the conventional delay-and-sum (DAS) beamformer for reconstructing ultrasound images obtained from a flexible array. We simulated imaging targets in Field-II using point target phantoms with point targets at different locations. In the experimental phantom ultrasound images, image RF data were acquired with a flexible transducer with in-house assistant structures embedded with needle targets for testing the accuracy of the APR method. The lateral full width at half maximum (FWHM) values of the objective point target (OPT) in ground truth ultrasound images, APR-delayed ultrasound images with a flat shape, and images acquired with curved transducer radii of 500 mm and 700 mm were 3.96 mm, 4.95 mm, 4.96 mm, and 4.95 mm. The corresponding axial FWHM values were 1.52 mm, 4.08 mm, 5.84 mm, and 5.92 mm, respectively. These results demonstrate that the proposed assistant structure and the APR method have the potential to construct accurate delay curves without external shape sensing, thereby enabling a flexible ultrasound array for tracking pancreatic tumor targets in real time for radiotherapy.
Immunotherapy and Cannabis: A Harmful Drug Interaction or Reefer Madness?
Authors: Piper Brian J. , Tian Maria , Saini Pragosh , Higazy Ahmad , Graham Jason , Carbe Christian J. , Bordonaro Michael
Published: March 2024

A retrospective (N = 140) and a prospective (N = 102) observational Israeli study by Bar-Sela and colleagues about cannabis potentially adversely impacting the response to immunotherapy have together been cited 202 times, including by clinical practice guidelines. There have also been concerns on PubPeer outlining irregularities and unverifiable information in their statistics and numerous errors in calculating percentages. This reanalysis attempted to verify the data analysis while including non-parametric statistics. The corrected prospective report contained 22 p-values, but only one (4.5%) could be verified despite the authors being transparent about the N and statistics employed. Cannabis users were significantly (p < 0.0025) younger than non-users, but this was not reported in the retrospective report. There were also errors in percentage calculations (e.g., 13/34 reported as 22.0% instead of 38.2%). Overall, these observational investigations, and especially the prospective, appear to contain gross inaccuracies which could impact the statistical decisions (i.e., significant findings reported as non-significant or vice-versa). Although it is mechanistically plausible that cannabis could have immunosuppressive effects which inhibit the response to immunotherapy, these two reports should be viewed cautiously. Larger prospective studies of this purported drug interaction that account for potential confounds (e.g., greater nicotine smoking among cannabis users) may be warranted.
Perceived Worries and Spirituality: A Mixed Methods Study of the Primary Caregiver Well-Being of Orphan and Vulnerable Children in Ethiopia
Authors: Tadesse Aweke , Helton Jesse J. , Li Kenan
Published: March 2024

This study investigates the well-being of primary caregivers responsible for orphaned and vulnerable children. Well-being is defined as overall wellness, happiness, and satisfaction. Through mixed methods case studies and purposive sampling, we analyzed data from the Ziway Food for the Hungry Ethiopia program in 2017. Our explanatory analytic approach highlighted issues including resource constraints, chronic illnesses, and community challenges faced by the respondents. Nonetheless, spiritual well-being emerged as a crucial factor for their coping mechanisms. The findings underscore that critical well-being deficiencies require immediate attention. Strategies should prioritize financial and emotional support, emphasizing community capital to enhance the well-being of primary caregivers.
Using Deep Eutectic Solvent-Assisted Plating Baths to Electrodeposit Composite Coatings: A Review
Authors: Protsenko Vyacheslav
Published: March 2024

This review provides a systematic analysis of the literature data on the electrodeposition of composite coatings using plating baths based on a new generation of room-temperature ionic liquids known as deep eutectic solvents (DESs). Such systems offer several advantages over traditionally used aqueous electrolytes and organic solvent-based electrolytes. The colloidal–chemical properties of suspension and colloidal electrolytes for composite deposition are thoroughly examined. New theories describing the kinetics of the co-deposition of composite layers are characterized. The kinetics and mechanisms of electrochemical deposition processes of composite coatings with metallic matrices are discussed. Case studies regarding the electrodeposition of composite coatings based on electrodeposited copper, silver, zinc, tin, nickel, cobalt, and chromium from DES-assisted electroplating baths are described and systematized. The main prospective directions for further research in the discussed scientific area are highlighted.
A Survey of Consortium Blockchain and Its Applications
Authors: Chen Xiaotong , He Songlin , Sun Linfu , Zheng Yangxin , Wu Chase Q.
Published: March 2024

Blockchain is a revolutionary technology that has reshaped the trust model among mutually distrustful peers in a distributed network. While blockchain is well-known for its initial usage in a public manner, such as the cryptocurrency of Bitcoin, consortium blockchain, which requires authentication of all involved participants, has also been widely adopted in various domains. Nevertheless, there is a lack of comprehensive study of consortium blockchain in terms of its architecture design, consensus mechanisms, comparative performance, etc. In this study, we aim to fill this gap by surveying the most popular consortium blockchain platforms and assessing their core designs in a layered fashion. Particularly, Byzantine fault tolerant (BFT) state machine replication (SMR) is introduced to act as a basic computational model of consortium blockchain. Then the consortium blockchain is split into the hardware layer, layer-0 (network layer), layer-I (data layer, consensus layer and contract layer), layer-II protocols, and application layer. Each layer is presented with closely related discussion and analysis. Furthermore, with the extraction of the core functionalities, i.e., robust storage and guaranteed execution, that a consortium blockchain can provide, several typical consortium blockchain-empowered decentralized application scenarios are introduced. With these thorough studies and analyses, this work aims to systematize the knowledge dispersed in the consortium blockchain, highlight the unsolved challenges, and also indicate the propitious avenues of future work.
A Comparative Computational Study of the Solidification Kinetic Coefficients for the Soft-Sphere BCC-Melt and the FCC-Melt Interfaces
Authors: Liang Zun , Zhang Xin , Wang Yashen , Lv Songtai , Alexandrov Dmitri V. , Liang Hongtao , Yang Yang
Published: March 2024

Using the non-equilibrium molecular dynamics (NEMD) simulations and the time-dependent Ginzburg–Landau (TDGL) theory for solidification kinetics, we study the crystal-melt interface (CMI) kinetic coefficients for both the soft-sphere (SS) BCC-melt and the FCC-melt interfaces, modeled with the inverse-power repulsive potential (n=8). The collective dynamics of the interfacial liquids at four equilibrium CMIs are calculated and employed to eliminate the discrepancy between the predictions of the kinetic coefficient using the NEMD simulations and the TDGL solidification theory. The speedup of the two modes of the interfacial liquid collective dynamics (at wavenumbers equal to the principal and the secondary reciprocal lattice vector of the grown crystal) at the equilibrium FCC CMI is observed. The calculated local collective dynamics of the SS BCC CMIs are compared with the previously reported data for the BCC Fe CMIs, validating a hypothesis proposed recently that the density relaxation times of the interfacial liquids at the CMIs are anisotropic and material dependent. With the insights provided by the improved application of the TDGL solidification theory, an attempt has been made to interpret the variation physics of the crystal-structure dependence of the solidification kinetic coefficient.
First-Principles Investigations of the Electronic Structure and Mechanical Characteristics of Nd3+-Doped YAlO3 Crystals
Authors: Meng Shuai , Li Aocheng , Li Kun , Song Yanjie , Qin Zhenxing , Zhang Rui , Zhang Yufei , Ren Weijie , Yang Wen
Published: March 2024

Near-infrared laser radiation based on Nd3+-doped yttrium ortho-aluminate (Nd:YAlO3, Nd:YAP) has garnered significant interest regarding solid-state lasers. Nevertheless, the crystal microstructures and electronic characteristics of Nd:YAP are still unclear, and the unique physical properties underlying its enormous applications require clarification. In this study, we conducted first-principles calculations at the atomic level to explore the electronic properties and mechanical characteristics of both pure YAP and Nd3+-doped YAP. The results suggest that the substitution of the Y3+ ion site with the Nd3+ impurity ion induces slight structural distortion in the YAP crystal lattice. An impurity band emerges between the original conduction band and the valence band, attributed to the 4f orbital of the Nd3+ ion, exerting a substantial influence on the narrowing of the band gap. Through an analysis of the mechanical characteristics of both pure YAP and Nd:YAP, we conclude that the incorporation of Nd3+ atoms leads to a reduction in the mechanical properties of YAP to a certain extent. Our study can serve as a foundational data source for investigations into material performance, especially for the application of Nd:YAP in solid-state laser systems.
Synthesis and Band Gap Characterization of High-Entropy Ceramic Powders
Authors: Dallaev Rashid , Spusta Tomáš , Allaham Mohammad M. , Spotz Zdenek , Sobola Dinara
Published: March 2024

This manuscript presents a comprehensive exploration of the band gap structure of (CoCrFeNiMn)3O4 powders through a series of experimental investigations. The combined use of optical techniques and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy in this study leads to a comprehensive characterization of the band gap structure in (CoCrFeNiMn)3O4 powders. The findings contribute to the understanding of this material’s electronic properties and pave the way for potential applications in electronic and optical devices.
Complications and Recurrences after Excision and Reconstruction of Eyelid Tumours
Authors: Balchev Georgi
Published: March 2024

Introduction: The eyelids are a common site for skin tumours and account for 5–10% of all skin tumours. Treatment is mainly surgical and aims to preserve the anatomical structure of the eyelid, its function and not least its aesthetic appearance. Aim: Presentation of recurrence and complication rates of tumour-related eyelid surgery in a cohort of 450 tumours. Results: Analysis of a cohort of 450 tumours operated on revealed 13 (2.8%) operations with recurrences and 32 (7%) with complications. The statistical significance of recurrences was observed for the involved and uninvolved ciliary margin. At the temporal canthus, 23.1% of recurrences occurred compared to 7.7% at the medial canthus. SGC has the highest recurrence rate. Complications include the following: ectropion, dehiscence, gross cicatrix with normal function, retraction, post-radiation damage, sub-graft haemorrhage and graft rejection. Conclusions: The recurrence rate of eyelid tumours is lower than that of complications. The choice of surgical technique determines the frequency of complications and histological control of the excised tissue, as well as the frequency of recurrences.
Utility of Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire (KCCQ) in Assessing Quality of Life among Patients with Heart Failure Undergoing Exercise Training Rehabilitation: A Systematic Review
Authors: Sukosd Ilona Emoke , Pescariu Silvius Alexandru , Faur Cosmin , Danila Alexandra Ioana , Prodan-Barbulescu Catalin , Fira-Mladinescu Ovidiu
Published: March 2024

This systematic review evaluates the effectiveness of the Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire (KCCQ) in assessing quality of life improvements among patients with heart failure (HF) undergoing various forms of exercise training rehabilitation, including telemedicine and in-person modalities, across all stages of HF, irrespective of ejection fraction (EF) and clinical status. The aim was to collate evidence from studies employing the KCCQ as a measure of quality of life (QoL). A comprehensive search strategy was implemented across PubMed, Scopus, and Embase databases, adhering to the PRISMA guidelines, including literature up until October 2023. Inclusion criteria encompassed studies on patients diagnosed with HF undergoing exercise training rehabilitation assessed by KCCQ. Nine articles met the inclusion criteria, involving a total of 3905 patients from various global locations and conducted between 2012 and 2022. Results indicated significant heterogeneity in exercise interventions and patient characteristics. Notably, high-intensity interval training (HIIT) showed a marked improvement in KCCQ scores (from 68.0 to 80.0) compared to moderate continuous training (MCT) and control groups, underscoring its potential for enhancing QoL. Additionally, a significant improvement in the 6-min walking test (6MWT) outcomes was observed, with an average increase of 106 m (95% CI: 60, 152) in one study, reflecting physical capacity enhancements. However, the difference in KCCQ scores between intervention and control groups was not statistically significant in several studies. In conclusion, the KCCQ’s effectiveness is highlighted by its ability to detect clinically meaningful improvements in QoL across diverse exercise modalities, including HIIT and MCT, tailored to the specific needs of HF populations. The consistent correlation between KCCQ score improvements and enhanced physical outcomes, such as the 6MWT, supports its reliability in capturing the nuanced benefits of exercise interventions on patient well-being.
Research on Service Function Chain Embedding and Migration Algorithm for UAV IoT
Authors: Wang Xi , Shi Shuo , Wu Chenyu
Published: March 2024

This paper addresses the challenge of managing service function chaining (SFC) in an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) IoT, a dynamic network that integrates UAVs and IoT devices for various scenarios. To enhance the service quality and user experience of the UAV IoT, network functions must be flexibly configured and adjusted based on varying service demands and network situations. This paper presents a model for calculating benefits and an agile algorithm for embedding and migrating SFC based on particle swarm optimization (PSO). The model takes into account multiple factors such as SFC quality, resource utilization, and migration cost. It aims to maximize the SFC benefit and minimize the migration times. The algorithm leverages PSO’s global search and fast convergence to identify the optimal or near-optimal SFC placement and update it when the network state changes. Simulation experiments demonstrate that the proposed method improves network resource efficiency and outperforms existing methods. This paper presents a new idea and method for managing SFC in UAV IoT.
Characterization of the Ratcheting Effect on the Filler Material of a Steel Slag-Based Thermal Energy Storage
Authors: Garitaonandia Erika , Arribalzaga Peru , Miguel Ibon , Bielsa Daniel
Published: March 2024

Thermocline thermal energy storage systems play a crucial role in enhancing energy efficiency in energy-intensive industries. Among available technologies, air-based packed bed systems are promising due to their ability to utilize cost-effective materials. Recently, one of the most intriguing filler materials under study is steel slag, a byproduct of the steel industry. Steel slag offers affordability, ample availability without conflicting usage, stability at temperatures up to 1000 °C, compatibility with heat transfer fluids, and non-toxicity. Previous research demonstrated favorable thermophysical and mechanical properties. Nonetheless, a frequently overlooked aspect is the endurance of the slag particles, when exposed to both mechanical and thermal stresses across numerous charging and discharging cycles. Throughout the thermal cyclic process, the slag within the tank experiences substantial loads at elevated temperatures, undergoing thermal expansion and contraction. This phenomenon can result in the deterioration of individual particles and potential damage to the tank structure. However, assessing the extended performance of these systems is challenging due to the considerable time required for thermal cycles at a relevant scale. To address this issue, this paper introduces a specially designed fast testing apparatus, providing the corresponding testing results of a real-scale system over 15 years of operation.