bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cytoprotective Role of Heme Oxygenase-1 in Cancer Chemoresistance: Focus on Antioxidant, Antiapoptotic, and Pro-Autophagy Properties
Authors: Wang Huan , Cheng Qi , Bao Lingjie , Li Mingqing , Chang Kaikai , Yi Xiaofang
Published: June 2023

Chemoresistance remains the foremost challenge in cancer therapy. Targeting reactive oxygen species (ROS) manipulation is a promising strategy in cancer treatment since tumor cells present high levels of intracellular ROS, which makes them more vulnerable to further ROS elevation than normal cells. Nevertheless, dynamic redox evolution and adaptation of tumor cells are capable of counteracting therapy-induced oxidative stress, which leads to chemoresistance. Hence, exploring the cytoprotective mechanisms of tumor cells is urgently needed to overcome chemoresistance. Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), a rate-limiting enzyme of heme degradation, acts as a crucial antioxidant defense and cytoprotective molecule in response to cellular stress. Recently, emerging evidence indicated that ROS detoxification and oxidative stress tolerance owing to the antioxidant function of HO-1 contribute to chemoresistance in various cancers. Enhanced HO-1 expression or enzymatic activity was revealed to promote apoptosis resistance and activate protective autophagy, which also involved in the development of chemoresistance. Moreover, inhibition of HO-1 in multiple cancers was identified to reversing chemoresistance or improving chemosensitivity. Here, we summarize the most recent advances regarding the antioxidant, antiapoptotic, and pro-autophagy properties of HO-1 in mediating chemoresistance, highlighting HO-1 as a novel target for overcoming chemoresistance and improving the prognosis of cancer patients.
A Helping Hand to the Elderly: Securing Their Freedom through the HAIE Framework
Authors: Bhalotia Naman , Kumar Mohnish , Alameen Abdalla , Mohapatra Hitesh , Kolhar Manjur
Published: June 2023

The life expectancy of the elderly has substantially increased compared to earlier times. The primary factors are greater awareness of nutrition, the environment, and personal hygiene. Advances in science and technology have also extended the lifespans of the aging population. Traditional care methods are inadequate to address this situation. To maintain the socioeconomic structure, there is a need for the integration of advanced frameworks. In this context, we propose a smart framework called human activity Internet of Things-enabled environment (HAIE) to provide a non-human assistive environment that helps the elderly live independently. Research into aging in place and assistive environments has focused on modernized environments, largely neglecting the impact of technology on the lives of elderly individuals who stay at home. This work addresses the gap by integrating advanced technologies, such as cloud computing and the Internet of Things (IoT). The inclusion of IoT facilitates a smart and automated environment for the elderly. Cloud integration enables the storage of large volumes of data for further analysis and the identification of patterns for future advancements. It also introduces the concept of accessing data from anywhere, on any device, at any time. To validate this work, two primary parameters were considered: accuracy and latency. Through simulation, the proposed HAIE model has demonstrated an accuracy of 93% out of 100 attempts and a latency of 84.35 ms for the deployed case studies under the HAIE framework.
A Multiscale Local–Global Feature Fusion Method for SAR Image Classification with Bayesian Hyperparameter Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Lian Xiaoqin , Huang Xue , Gao Chao , Ma Guochun , Wu Yelan , Gong Yonggang , Guan Wenyang , Li Jin
Published: June 2023

In recent years, the advancement of deep learning technology has led to excellent performance in synthetic aperture radar (SAR) automatic target recognition (ATR) technology. However, due to the interference of speckle noise, the task of classifying SAR images remains challenging. To address this issue, a multi-scale local–global feature fusion network (MFN) integrating a convolution neural network (CNN) and a transformer network was proposed in this study. The proposed network comprises three branches: a CovNeXt-SimAM branch, a Swin Transformer branch, and a multi-scale feature fusion branch. The CovNeXt-SimAM branch extracts local texture detail features of the SAR images at different scales. By incorporating the SimAM attention mechanism to the CNN block, the feature extraction capability of the model was enhanced from the perspective of spatial and channel attention. Additionally, the Swin Transformer branch was employed to extract SAR image global semantic information at different scales. Finally, the multi-scale feature fusion branch was used to fuse local features and global semantic information. Moreover, to overcome the problem of poor accuracy and inefficiency of the model due to empirically determined model hyperparameters, the Bayesian hyperparameter optimization algorithm was used to determine the optimal model hyperparameters. The model proposed in this study achieved average recognition accuracies of 99.26% and 94.27% for SAR vehicle targets under standard operating conditions (SOCs) and extended operating conditions (EOCs), respectively, on the MSTAR dataset. Compared with the baseline model, the recognition accuracy has been improved by 12.74% and 25.26%, respectively. The results demonstrated that Bayes-MFN reduces the inter-class distance of the SAR images, resulting in more compact classification features and less interference from speckle noise. Compared with other mainstream models, the Bayes-MFN model exhibited the best classification performance.
Investigating the Effect of Outdoor Advertising on Consumer Decisions: An Eye-Tracking and A/B Testing Study of Car Drivers’ Perception
Authors: Madlenak Radovan , Chinoracky Roman , Stalmasekova Natalia , Madlenakova Lucia
Published: June 2023

This study aims to investigate the impact of outdoor advertising on consumer behaviour by using eye-tracking analysis while drivers travel specific routes in Žilina, Slovakia. This research combines questionnaire inquiry and A/B testing to assess the conscious and subconscious effects of outdoor advertising on consumer decisions. The findings of this study have important implications for businesses providing outdoor advertising spaces, as well as those using outdoor advertising as a form of advertisement. Additionally, the study provides insights into the role of transportation background and how it influences consumer behaviour in relation to outdoor advertising.
Remotely Controlled Electronic Goalkeeper: An Example of Improving Social Integration of Persons with and without Disabilities
Authors: Donati Massimiliano , Pacini Federico , Baldanzi Luca , Turturici Mauro , Fanucci Luca
Published: June 2023

Social integration is an essential part of the life of every human being, but for people with disabilities, there are many situations in which it is still very low. For instance, in sports and outdoor gaming, there is a barrier between players with and without disabilities. Individuals with disabilities play sports almost exclusively with disabled players, not only during official events such as Paralympic games but also in occasional sports groups, while the mixing of people with and without disabilities in sports activities is a key factor of social inclusion. In order to allow a person with motor-skill impairments to play on the same ground as their non-disabled peers, we developed a novel piece of Assistive Technology that lets a person with motor-skill impairments to control a system acting as a goalkeeper during a non-professional football match, with approximately the same performances as a goalkeeper without motor-skill impairments. This electro-mechanical system is composed of a three-meter-long metal guideline and a human-shaped dummy sliding along it. The system is equipped with a high-torque battery-powered direct-current motor and it is controlled by means of electronic boards and sensors to ensure safety and good usability also for players with severe mobility impairments. The results of a pilot testing demonstrated the robustness and high degree of usability of the system, enabling people with motor-skill impairments to competitively participate in matches with non-disabled peers.
Passive Power Line Communication Filter Design and Benchmarking Using Scattering Parameters
Authors: Avram Sebastian , Vasiu Radu
Published: June 2023

NB-PLC (narrowband power line communication) is a method of data communication that involves superimposing a relatively high-frequency signal (9 kHz to 500 kHz), which contains data, onto the power grid’s low frequency (50 to 60 Hz) signal. While using the existing power grid as a transmission medium is convenient, the power grid was not designed for this purpose, leading to challenges such as conducted emissions and infrastructure limitations. To overcome these technical challenges, passive filters are necessary. This article presents the design, simulation (using scattering parameters), and evaluation of an NB-PLC filter by comparing it to commercially available filters. Our proposed design and benchmarking methods enable the accurate prediction of the filter’s behavior in field conditions. After comparing our filter with commercially available filters, we observed that it exhibits superior characteristics. Specifically, our filter has the best insertion loss versus frequency, achieved three times higher attenuation at 50 kHz (−130 dB) compared to the best commercially available filter (−40 dB), and has a power consumption of 0.6 W, which is comparable to the most power-efficient commercial filter (0.5 W). Additionally, our filter has the second best input and output impedance of 3.6 Ω within the frequency range of 35–95 kHz.
An Eco-Energetic Performance Comparison of Dehumidification Systems in High-Moisture Indoor Environments
Authors: Santos Alexandre F. , Gaspar Pedro D. , de Souza Heraldo J. L. , Caldeira João M. L. P. , Soares Vasco N. G. J.
Published: June 2023

This study discusses the choice of dehumidification systems for high-moisture indoor environments, such as indoor swimming pools, supported by an eco-energetic performance comparison. Initially, the causes of the high relative humidity and condensation in these spaces are reported, as well as the available dehumidification technologies. Two different solutions are described: desiccant wheel dehumidification and re-cooling. The energy demand required by a refrigeration system is lower than the desiccant wheel; however, the former system requires less maintenance and does not require refrigerant fluid. An eco-energetic comparison is performed between the two systems in two countries with different energy matrices (Brazil and USA). In Brazil, the desiccant wheel is the best choice for the past 10 years, with a predicted 351,520 kgCO2 of CO2 emissions, which is 38% lower than the refrigeration system. In the USA, the best option is the refrigeration system (1,463,350 kgCO2), a 12% more efficient option than desiccant wheels. This model can be considered for energy and CO2 emissions assessment, predicting which system has better energy efficiency and lower environmental impact, depending on the refrigerant type, location and environmental conditions.
Orientation Control Design of a Telepresence Robot: An Experimental Verification in Healthcare System
Authors: Altalbe Ali , Khan Muhammad Nasir , Tahir Muhammad , Shahzad Aamir
Published: June 2023

Automation in the modern world has become a necessity for humans. Intelligent mobile robots have become necessary to perform various complex tasks in healthcare and industry environments. Mobile robots have gained attention during the pandemic; human–robot interaction has become vibrant. However, there are many challenges in obtaining human–robot interactions regarding maneuverability, controllability, stability, drive layout and autonomy. In this paper, we proposed a stability and control design for a telepresence robot called auto-MERLIN. The proposed design simulated and experimentally verified self-localization and maneuverability in a hazardous environment. A model from Rieckert and Schunck was initially considered to design the control system parameters. The system identification approach was then used to derive the mathematical relationship between the manipulated variable of robot orientation control. The theoretical model of the robot mechanics and associated control were developed. A design model was successfully implemented, analyzed mathematically, used to build the hardware and tested experimentally. Each level takes on excellent tasks for the development of auto-MERLIN. A higher level always uses the services of lower levels to carry out its functions. The proposed approach is comparatively simple, less expensive and easily deployable compared to previous methods. The experimental results showed that the robot is functionally complete in all aspects. A test drive was performed over a given path to evaluate the hardware, and the results were presented. Simulation and experimental results showed that the target path is maintained quite well.
Nutritional Profiling and Cytotoxicity Assessment of Protein Rich Ingredients Used as Dietary Supplements
Authors: Tihăuan Bianca-Maria , Marinaș Ioana-Cristina , Adascălului Marian , Dobre Alina , Pîrcălăbioru Grațiela Grădișteanu , Axinie Mădălina , Ștefan Laura Mihaela , Duță Denisa Eglantina
Published: June 2023

In recent years, the scientific community has made significant progress in understanding nutrition, leading consumers to shift their preferences away from animal-based protein products and towards natural, plant-based protein sources. This study aimed to determine the nutritional value, in vitro cytotoxicity and antioxidant activity for different sources of high protein content products (pea, yeast, almond, spirulina and Pleurotus spp.) with potential usage as raw materials for dietary supplements, especially since these products do not benefit from stricter regulation requirements regarding their actual health benefits. The characterization of raw materials consisted in evaluation of their nutritional profile (by addressing moisture content, crude protein content, extractable fat, ash, carbohydrates) and microbial contamination (TAMC, TYMC, Enterobacteriaceae and β-glucuronidase positive Escherichia coli), total content of free amino acids, soluble proteins, phenols and flavonoids, as well as antioxidant activity through chemical assays. We used 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release to evaluate the potential cytotoxicity of selected raw materials. Results obtained indicate high percentages of proteins for the pea powder (77.96%) and Spirulina powder (64.79%), Pleurotus spp. flour had strong antioxidant activity, while the highest contamination values were registered for Pleurotus spp. powder (4.6 × 105 CFU/g or 5.66 log CFU/g). Cytotoxicity results demonstrate that tested ingredients have an impact on the metabolic activity of cells, affecting cellular integrity and provoking leakage of DNA at several concentrations. While plant-based protein supplementation may appear to be a promising solution to balance our busy lives, there are several advantages and disadvantages associated with them, including issues related to their absorption rate, bioavailability, cytotoxicity and actual nutritional benefits.
Characterizing Crustal Deformation of the Weihe Fault, Weihe Basin (Central China), Using InSAR and GNSS Observations
Authors: Tian Qin-Hu , Zhang Wen-Ting , Zhu Wu
Published: June 2023

The Weihe Fault is an important basement fault that is buried deep and controls the formation, evolution, and seismicity of the Weihe Basin. It has been quiescent for more than 300 years with only a few moderate and small earthquakes distributed unevenly. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate the current tectonic deformation pattern in order to assess regional seismic risk. In this context, the tectonic deformation velocities of the Weihe Fault were analyzed using an interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR), a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) and leveling observations. The line of slight (LOS) deformation rates spanning from 2015 to 2019 were estimated from stacking-InSAR technology. Subsequently, the three-dimensional deformation rates in the north–south, east–west, and vertical directions were separated through the integration of GNSS-derived horizontal deformation and InSAR-derived LOS deformation. After that, the long-wavelength tectonic deformation was decomposed from the separated vertical deformation based on the spherical wavelet multiscale approach. Finally, the slip rate and locking depth were inverted for the assessment of the seismic hazard and tectonic activity of the Weihe Fault. The results show that the separated vertical deformation is consistent with the leveling observations, where the standard deviation between them is 1.69 mm/yr and the mean value is 0.6 mm/yr, demonstrating the reliability of the proposed method. The decomposed long-wavelength tectonic deformation exhibits uplift in the north and subsidence in the south, as well as the obvious vertical velocity gradient. The inversion result shows that the slip rate of the Weihe Fault gradually decreases from the west to the east, and the dip gradually increases from the west to the east, indicating a segmented activity and the geometric characteristics of the fault. The locking depth of the Weihe Fault gradually increases from the west (~5 km) to the east (~14 km), implying a higher stress accumulation and seismic risk on the eastern section of the fault. Taking into account the higher locking depth and frequent historical earthquakes on the eastern section of the Weihe Fault, further attention should be paid to the earthquake risk of the eastern section of the Weihe Fault.
Analytical Modeling for Mechanical Straightening Process of Case-Hardened Circular Shaft
Authors: Xing Shizhu
Published: June 2023

Straightening has to be carried out in order to ensure the straightness of a shaft, as distortions exceed the tolerance limit. Since the straightening load is typically large enough to produce plastic and residual deformation, repeated straightening loading cycles are very likely to induce cracks or fractures on the case-hardened shaft surface. In this study, in order to minimize repeated straightening cycles, an analytical straightening model is developed which calculates optimum stroke displacements corresponding to measured straightness errors so as to achieve the desired residual deflections and eliminate straightness errors. First, the hardness variation in the shaft radial direction is considered in the analytical model. Then, the proposed theoretical model is validated by numerical simulations. The results suggest that the analytically predicted stroke displacements and residual deflections agree very well with the numerical results when using induction-hardened SAE 4140 steel, and this signifies that the analytical straightening model developed in this study is capable of providing predictions of straightening stokes.
A Disentangled VAE-BiLSTM Model for Heart Rate Anomaly Detection
Authors: Staffini Alessio , Svensson Thomas , Chung Ung-il , Svensson Akiko Kishi
Published: June 2023

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain a leading cause of death globally. According to the American Heart Association, approximately 19.1 million deaths were attributed to CVDs in 2020, in particular, ischemic heart disease and stroke. Several known risk factors for CVDs include smoking, alcohol consumption, lack of regular physical activity, and diabetes. The last decade has been characterized by widespread diffusion in the use of wristband-style wearable devices which can monitor and collect heart rate data, among other information. Wearable devices allow the analysis and interpretation of physiological and activity data obtained from the wearer and can therefore be used to monitor and prevent potential CVDs. However, these data are often provided in a manner that does not allow the general user to immediately comprehend possible health risks, and often require further analytics to draw meaningful conclusions. In this paper, we propose a disentangled variational autoencoder (β-VAE) with a bidirectional long short-term memory network (BiLSTM) backend to detect in an unsupervised manner anomalies in heart rate data collected during sleep time with a wearable device from eight heterogeneous participants. Testing was performed on the mean heart rate sampled both at 30 s and 1 min intervals. We compared the performance of our model with other well-known anomaly detection algorithms, and we found that our model outperformed them in almost all considered scenarios and for all considered participants. We also suggest that wearable devices may benefit from the integration of anomaly detection algorithms, in an effort to provide users more processed and straightforward information.
Long-Term Follow-Up of a Novel Surgical Option Combining Fibula Free Flap and 3D-Bioprinted, Patient-Specific Polycaprolactone (PCL) Implant for Mandible Reconstruction
Authors: Hwang Bo-Yeon , Noh Kwantae , Lee Jung-Woo
Published: June 2023

As the fibula free flap became the gold standard in mandibular reconstruction that required both hard tissue and soft tissue, various methods have been sought to solve the height discrepancy between the mandible and fibula. The purpose of this paper was to propose a surgical option that combined the microvascular fibula free flap with a 3D-bioprinted, patient-specific polycaprolactone (PCL) implant as a safe and simple novel method that achieved the best functional and aesthetic results in mandibular reconstruction surgery for young patients with malignant tumors. The patient’s reconstructed mandible maintained volume symmetry without any deformation or complications for over 6 years. Computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) and 3D printing technology enabled accurate and safe surgical results.
Trophic Positions of Polyp and Medusa Stages of the Freshwater Jellyfish Craspedacusta sowerbii Based on Stable Isotope Analysis
Authors: Gießler Sabine , Strauss Tido , Schachtl Katrin , Jankowski Thomas , Klotz Ramona , Stibor Herwig
Published: June 2023

When species spread into new regions, competition with native species and predatory–prey relationships play a major role in whether the new species can successfully establish itself in the recipient food web and become invasive. In aquatic habitats, species with a metagenetic life cycle, such as the freshwater jellyfish Craspedacusta with benthic polyps and planktonic medusae, have to meet the requirements of two distinct life stages occurring in two habitats with different food webs. Here, we examined the trophic position of both life stages, known to be predatory, and compared their niches with those of putative native competitors using stable isotope analysis. We found that δ13C and δ15N signatures of medusae overlapped with those of co-occurring Chaoborus larvae and juvenile fish (Rutilus rutilus) in a well-studied lake, implying high competition with these native predators. The comparison of δ15N signatures of Hydra and Craspedacusta polyps in four additional lakes revealed their similar trophic position, matching their predatory lifestyle. However, their δ13C signatures differed not only across all four of the lakes studied but also within one lake over time, suggesting a preference for pelagic or benthic food sources. We conclude that invasive and native polyps differ in their niches due to different food spectra, which favors the invasion success of Craspedacusta.
Prediction Model for Pre-Eclampsia Using Gestational-Age-Specific Serum Creatinine Distribution
Authors: Kang Jieun , Hwang Sangwon , Lee Taesic , Ahn Kwangjin , Seo Dong Min , Choi Seong Jin , Uh Young
Published: June 2023

Pre-eclampsia (PE) is a pregnancy-related disease, causing significant threats to both mothers and babies. Numerous studies have identified the association between PE and renal dysfunction. However, in clinical practice, kidney problems in pregnant women are often overlooked due to physiologic adaptations during pregnancy, including renal hyperfiltration. Recent studies have reported serum creatinine (SCr) level distribution based on gestational age (GA) and demonstrated that deviations from the expected patterns can predict adverse pregnancy outcomes, including PE. This study aimed to establish a PE prediction model using expert knowledge and by considering renal physiologic adaptation during pregnancy. This retrospective study included pregnant women who delivered at the Wonju Severance Christian Hospital. Input variables, such as age, gestational weeks, chronic diseases, and SCr levels, were used to establish the PE prediction model. By integrating SCr, GA, GA-specific SCr distribution, and quartile groups of GA-specific SCr (GAQ) were made. To provide generalized performance, a random sampling method was used. As a result, GAQ improved the predictive performance for any cases of PE and triple cases, including PE, preterm birth, and fetal growth restriction. We propose a prediction model for PE consolidating readily available clinical blood test information and pregnancy-related renal physiologic adaptations.
Plant Intelligence from a Comparative Psychology Perspective
Authors: Castiello Umberto
Published: June 2023

After being subjected to years of debates regarding the possibility that plants possess some form of intelligence, many admit to needing to close their eyes and to breathe mindfully when having to listen to the same arguments yet again [...]
Cross-Sectional 4D-Printing: Upscaling Self-Shaping Structures with Differentiated Material Properties Inspired by the Large-Flowered Butterwort (Pinguicula grandiflora)
Authors: Sahin Ekin Sila , Cheng Tiffany , Wood Dylan , Tahouni Yasaman , Poppinga Simon , Thielen Marc , Speck Thomas , Menges Achim
Published: June 2023

Extrusion-based 4D-printing, which is an emerging field within additive manufacturing, has enabled the technical transfer of bioinspired self-shaping mechanisms by emulating the functional morphology of motile plant structures (e.g., leaves, petals, capsules). However, restricted by the layer-by-layer extrusion process, much of the resulting works are simplified abstractions of the pinecone scale’s bilayer structure. This paper presents a new method of 4D-printing by rotating the printed axis of the bilayers, which enables the design and fabrication of self-shaping monomaterial systems in cross sections. This research introduces a computational workflow for programming, simulating, and 4D-printing differentiated cross sections with multilayered mechanical properties. Taking inspiration from the large-flowered butterwort (Pinguicula grandiflora), which shows the formation of depressions on its trap leaves upon contact with prey, we investigate the depression formation of bioinspired 4D-printed test structures by varying each depth layer. Cross-sectional 4D-printing expands the design space of bioinspired bilayer mechanisms beyond the XY plane, allows more control in tuning their self-shaping properties, and paves the way toward large-scale 4D-printed structures with high-resolution programmability.
Recent Progress in Diboronic-Acid-Based Glucose Sensors
Authors: Nan Ke , Jiang Yu-Na , Li Meng , Wang Bing
Published: June 2023

Non-enzymatic sensors with the capability of long-term stability and low cost are promising in glucose monitoring applications. Boronic acid (BA) derivatives offer a reversible and covalent binding mechanism for glucose recognition, which enables continuous glucose monitoring and responsive insulin release. To improve selectivity to glucose, a diboronic acid (DBA) structure design has been explored and has become a hot research topic for real-time glucose sensing in recent decades. This paper reviews the glucose recognition mechanism of boronic acids and discusses different glucose sensing strategies based on DBA-derivatives-based sensors reported in the past 10 years. The tunable pKa, electron-withdrawing properties, and modifiable group of phenylboronic acids were explored to develop various sensing strategies, including optical, electrochemical, and other methods. However, compared to the numerous monoboronic acid molecules and methods developed for glucose monitoring, the diversity of DBA molecules and applied sensing strategies remains limited. The challenges and opportunities are also highlighted for the future of glucose sensing strategies, which need to consider practicability, advanced medical equipment fitment, patient compliance, as well as better selectivity and tolerance to interferences.
Transfer Effect of Cognitive Advantages in Visual Working Memory Capacity: Evidence from Elite Football Players
Authors: Wang Xiaomei , Liu Zhigang , Zhang Huanyu , Ji Chaoxin
Published: June 2023

Background: The research has indicated that elite football players demonstrate cognitive advantages in visual working memory capacity (VWMC); however, it remains unclear whether this effect transfers to other domains cognitive advantages. Object: This study investigated the VWMC differences between elite football players and novices, with a particular focus on cognitive advantages. Methods: Elite football players (specialized in football) and novices were selected to complete the VWMC test task under three different stimulus conditions, then the differences in the VWMCs of elite football players and novices were analyzed. Results: In comparison to novices, elite football players demonstrated cognitive advantages in VWMCs, along with a possible transfer effect. Additionally, the study showed that the reaction times among elite football players and novices differed, with elite players demonstrating shorter reaction times, which is a difference that was amplified as the number of stimuli increased. Conclusion: The VWMCs of elite football players was better than that of novices under professional and meaningless conditions, which indicates that the VWMCs of elite football players has a transfer effect. Through further analysis of the reaction times cognitive advantages, it was found that there are significant differences between elite football players and novices when responding to the stimuli in both professional and meaningless conditions.
How and When Generalized Reciprocity and Negative Reciprocity Influence Employees’ Well-Being: The Moderating Role of Strength Use and the Mediating Roles of Intrinsic Motivation and Organizational Obstruction
Authors: Zhu Nan , Liu Yuxin , Zhang Jianwei
Published: June 2023

Although the literature has shown that generalized reciprocity and negative reciprocity as exchange norms can significantly influence employees’ outcomes, knowledge about how and when the two types of norms influence employees’ well-being is limited. Based on social exchange theory and self-determination theory, we built and investigated a model by conducting a large questionnaire survey with 551 employees and managers. The results of the structural equation model supported our hypotheses. First, generalized reciprocity is positively related to well-being, and negative reciprocity is negatively related to well-being. Both intrinsic motivation and perceived organizational obstruction can meditate roles in the above relationships. Moreover, strength use can enhance the relationship between generalized reciprocity and intrinsic motivation, and it can also weaken the relationship between negative reciprocity and perceived organizational obstruction. Our research represents a significant step towards better understanding the work-related implications of imbalanced reciprocity, highlighting the destructive influence of negative reciprocity on employees’ well-being.
A Network Analysis Approach toward Adaptive Overt Narcissism Network
Authors: Runcan Remus , Rad Dana , Runcan Patricia , Măduța Cristian
Published: June 2023

The relationship between narcissistic personality and art and beauty appreciation has recently become the focus of research investigations. Adaptive narcissists raise their sense of worth in order to shield themselves from harm caused by others. Because they aspire to be more attractive, healthier, and successful versions of themselves, they frequently have greater success in life than the majority of people. Grandiose and overtly narcissistic behavior are the main recognized characteristics of an overt narcissist, which is currently regarded as a personality disorder that puts mental health and wellbeing at peril. On a random sample collection of data from 1101 respondents to an online questionnaire, we conducted a network analysis of the Adaptive Overt Narcissism Scale (AONS) items. In this study, we used a network analysis approach to examine the network structure of adaptive overt narcissism, as well as its relationships with psychological functioning. The present study utilized network analysis to investigate the centrality measures of items in the Adaptive Overt Narcissism Scale (AONS) and their interrelationships. Results indicated that item Q6.8 (“I appreciate art and beauty”) had low betweenness, closeness, and strength centrality measures, indicating that it was less influential in the network. However, it also had negative expected influence, suggesting that its absence would have a destabilizing effect on the network. These results highlight the importance of the appreciation of art and beauty in deactivating the adaptive overt narcissist network. Further research is needed to explore the mechanisms underlying this relationship and its implications for narcissism prevention and intervention.
Analysis of a Large-Scale Physical Model of Geosynthetic-Reinforced Piled Embankment and Analytical Design Methods
Authors: Vlček Jozef , Drusa Marian , Gago Filip , Mihálik Ján
Published: June 2023

The piled embankment represents one of the solutions for the realization of a soil body on a compressible subsoil where extended settlement or insufficient stability threatens the serviceability of related structures. Widely adopted analytical design procedures were analyzed: Marston’s formula and Hewlett and Randolph method contained in the British standard BS 8006-1, the German regulation EBGEO and the Dutch regulation CUR 226. Using these recommendations, the theoretical values of the individual parts of the load acting in the embankment and, subsequently, the values of the axial strain or tensile forces in the reinforcement were determined and compared with experimental data obtained from the tests in the large-scale physical model. For the presented case, without subsoil support, CUR 226 with the inverse load, which is recommended in the case of subsoil with low bearing capacity, shows better coincidence with the measured data. Overall, EBGEO and CUR 226 can be considered to be close to the real behavior of the piled embankment. Because of the frequent utilization of geosynthetic reinforcement and possible changes of subsoil parameters during the service life of the piled embankment, a rheological process of its elements should be investigated during the design process.
Plasma-Sputtered Growth of Ni-Pd Bimetallic Nanoparticles on Carbon Nanotubes for Toluene Sensing
Authors: Acosta Selene , Casanova-Chafer Juan , Llobet Eduard , Hemberg Axel , Quintana Mildred , Bittencourt Carla
Published: June 2023

The properties of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) can be effectively tailored by decorating their surface with metal nanoparticles. For the decoration, first plasma functionalization is used to add oxygen chemical groups to the CNTs surface. Afterwards, the Ox-CNTs are decorated with Ni-Pd bimetallic nanoparticles using plasma sputtering deposition, a clean, fast, and environmentally friendly functionalization method. The grafted oxygen groups serve as nucleation sites for the growth of the bimetallic nanoparticles. Finally, the Ni-Pd nanoparticle-decorated CNTs are assessed as a sensing layer for the detection of toluene.
Gold Nanocluster-Based Fluorescent Sensor Array for Antibiotic Sensing and Identification
Authors: Mo Mengjiao , Yuan Haoyi , Zhang Jingyu , Wang Jian , Liu Ying , Peng Juanjuan , Zhao Lingzhi
Published: June 2023

Antibiotic contamination has become a serious global problem due to abuse and misuse. Therefore, it is important to develop an efficient detection method to monitor the rational use of antibiotics. In this study, fluorescent gold nanoclusters with 11-mercaptoundecanoic acid as ligands (MUA-AuNCs) were synthesized by a one-step method firstly. Rare earth ions (Re3+) can enhance the fluorescence of MUA-AuNCs through inducing the aggregation of MUA-AuNCs, but antibiotics decrease the fluorescence of the Re3+-MUA-AuNCs to different degrees through coordination with Re3+ and competitive absorption with AuNCs. Therefore, a sensor array was obtained on the basis of the above mechanism, which can detect and discriminate six different antibiotics with a detection range from 40 to 300 μM. A 100% correct classification was achieved. The fluorescent sensor array showed high selectivity for tetracycline antibiotics and good anti-interference performance was demonstrated. Combined with pattern recognition methods, the proposed sensor array can be used for the discrimination of different antibiotics and binary antibiotic mixtures. Furthermore, the excellent performance of this sensor array in quantitation and blind sample recognition further validates its potential for practical applications.
Experiences and Perspectives of Children and Young People Living with Childhood-Onset Systemic Lupus Erythematosus—An Integrative Review
Authors: Blamires Julie , Foster Mandie , Napier Sara , Dickinson Annette
Published: June 2023

Childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus (cSLE) impacts the daily life of children and young people. This study aimed to describe the experiences and perspectives of children and young people living with cSLE. An integrative review guided by Whittemore and Knafl was conducted. Extant empirical research published in peer-reviewed journals from 2000 to 2021 on children’s self-reported experiences living with cSLE was identified from Scopus, CINAHL, Medline via PubMed, and PsycINFO via Ovid databases. Nineteen studies involving over 1400 participants were included. Four themes and fourteen sub-themes were identified: (1) challenging symptoms (disruptions to life and altered self, severity, fatigue, depression, and anxiety), (2) medicines and side effects (dreaded steroids, conflicting feelings, and medication adherence), (3) complicated life (school sports and social, giving things up, lack of understanding, and quality of life) and (4) ways of coping (family and friends, relationships with health providers, and maintaining positivity). While cSLE shares many similarities with adult-onset SLE, awareness of differences in experiences and perceptions of children and young people is crucial. The significant psychological and social impact of the disease and its treatments necessitates a comprehensive, holistic approach to managing cSLE that considers the unique needs of youth.
School and Bicultural Factors as Mediators between Immigrant Mothers’ Acculturative Stress and Adolescents’ Depression in Korea
Authors: Lim Yangmi
Published: June 2023

In Korea, marriages between Korean men and foreign women have surged since the late 1990s, resulting in public interest in the psychosocial adjustment of their children. This study examined the mediating effects of immigrant mothers’ school involvement, adolescents’ school adjustment, and bicultural acceptance on the relationship between the mothers’ acculturative stress and adolescents’ depression, as well as whether the structural relationships differed by the sex of adolescents. Data were collected from 1238 dyads of first-grade students (605 boys, 633 girls; age = 12.97 ± 0.35 years) in Korean middle schools and their immigrant mothers (age = 43.52 ± 5.13 years) who participated in the Multicultural Adolescents Panel Study. The structural equation modeling analysis revealed that mothers’ acculturative stress was indirectly and positively related to adolescents’ depression through (1) the serial mediations of mothers’ school involvement and adolescents’ school adjustment and (2) the individual mediation of adolescents’ school adjustment. Furthermore, the multigroup analysis indicated that the relationships between adolescents’ school adjustment and depression and between adolescents’ bicultural acceptance and depression significantly differed between male and female adolescents. The study provides directions for schools and communities to increase immigrant mothers’ school involvement and to facilitate their children’s school adjustment and bicultural acceptance.
Autosomal Dominant Hypocalcemia Type 1 and Neonatal Focal Seizures
Authors: Teleanu Raluca Ioana , Sarman Marlene Alexandra , Epure Diana Anamaria , Matei Margarita , Roşca Ioana , Roza Eugenia
Published: June 2023

Autosomal dominant hypocalcemia type 1 (ADH1) is a rare form of hypoparathyroidism that is characterized by gain-of-function mutations in the CASR gene, which provides instructions for producing the protein called calcium-sensing receptor (CaSR). Hypocalcemia in the neonatal period has a wide differential diagnosis. We present the case of a female newborn with genetic hypoparathyroidism (L125P mutation of CASR gene), hypocalcemia, and neonatal seizures due to the potential correlation between refractory neonatal seizures and ADH1. Neonatal seizures were previously described in patients with ADH1 but not in association with the L125P mutation of the CASR gene. Prompt diagnosis and management by a multidisciplinary and an appropriate therapeutic approach can prevent neurological and renal complications.
Validity and Reliability of Point-of-Care Ultrasound for Detecting Moderate- or High-Grade Carotid Atherosclerosis in an Outpatient Department
Authors: Chang Wan-Ling , Chen Pei-Ya , Hsu Po-Jen , Lin Shinn-Kuang
Published: June 2023

The prevalence of carotid stenosis is considerably higher in asymptomatic individuals with multiple risk factors than in the general population. We investigated the validity and reliability of carotid point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) for rapid carotid atherosclerosis screening. We prospectively enrolled asymptomatic individuals with carotid risk scores of ≥7 who underwent outpatient carotid POCUS and laboratory carotid sonography. Their simplified carotid plaque scores (sCPSs) and Handa’s carotid plaque scores (hCPSs) were compared. Of 60 patients (median age, 81.9 years), 50% were diagnosed as having moderate- or high-grade carotid atherosclerosis. The overestimation and underestimation of outpatient sCPSs were more likely in patients with low and high laboratory-derived sCPSs, respectively. Bland–Altman plots indicated that the mean differences between the participants’ outpatients and laboratory sCPSs were within two standard deviations of their laboratory sCPSs. A Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient revealed a strong positive linear correlation between outpatient and laboratory sCPSs (r = 0.956, p < 0.001). An intraclass correlation coefficient analysis indicated excellent reliability between the two methods (0.954). Both carotid risk score and sCPS were positively and linearly correlated with laboratory hCPS. Our findings indicate that POCUS has satisfactory agreement, strong correlation, and excellent reliability with laboratory carotid sonography, making it suitable for rapid screening of carotid atherosclerosis in high-risk patients.
Performance Analysis of a Drone-Assisted FSO Communication System over Málaga Turbulence under AoA Fluctuations
Authors: Shen Bing , Chen Jiajia , Xu Guanjun , Chen Qiushi , Wang Jian
Published: June 2023

Future wireless communications have been envisaged to benefit from integrating drones and free space optical (FSO) communications, which would provide links with line-of-sight propagation and large communication capacity. The theoretical performance analysis for a drone-assisted downlink FSO system is investigated. Furthermore, this paper utilizes the Málaga distribution to characterize the effect of atmospheric turbulence on the optical signal for the drone–terrestrial user link, taking into account atmospheric attenuation, pointing errors, and angle-of-arrival fluctuations. The probability density function and cumulative distribution function are then expressed in closed-form using the heterodyne detection and indirect modulation/direct detection techniques, respectively. Thereafter, the analytical expressions including the average bit error rate (BER) and the ergodic capacity are given. Particularly, the asymptotic behavior of the average BER of the considered system is presented using heterodyne detection at high optical power. The Monte Carlo simulation results certify the theoretical analytical results. Correspondingly, the field-of-view of the receiver is analyzed for optimal communication performance.
Analysis of Deep Convolutional Neural Networks Using Tensor Kernels and Matrix-Based Entropy
Authors: Wickstrøm Kristoffer K. , Løkse Sigurd , Kampffmeyer Michael C. , Yu Shujian , Príncipe José C. , Jenssen Robert
Published: June 2023

Analyzing deep neural networks (DNNs) via information plane (IP) theory has gained tremendous attention recently to gain insight into, among others, DNNs’ generalization ability. However, it is by no means obvious how to estimate the mutual information (MI) between each hidden layer and the input/desired output to construct the IP. For instance, hidden layers with many neurons require MI estimators with robustness toward the high dimensionality associated with such layers. MI estimators should also be able to handle convolutional layers while at the same time being computationally tractable to scale to large networks. Existing IP methods have not been able to study truly deep convolutional neural networks (CNNs). We propose an IP analysis using the new matrix-based Rényi’s entropy coupled with tensor kernels, leveraging the power of kernel methods to represent properties of the probability distribution independently of the dimensionality of the data. Our results shed new light on previous studies concerning small-scale DNNs using a completely new approach. We provide a comprehensive IP analysis of large-scale CNNs, investigating the different training phases and providing new insights into the training dynamics of large-scale neural networks.
A Visual Enhancement Network with Feature Fusion for Image Aesthetic Assessment
Authors: Zhang Xin , Jiang Xinyu , Song Qing , Zhang Pengzhou
Published: June 2023

Image aesthetic assessment (IAA) with neural attention has made significant progress due to its effectiveness in object recognition. Current studies have shown that the features learned by convolutional neural networks (CNN) at different learning stages indicate meaningful information. The shallow feature contains the low-level information of images, and the deep feature perceives the image semantics and themes. Inspired by this, we propose a visual enhancement network with feature fusion (FF-VEN). It consists of two sub-modules, the visual enhancement module (VE module) and the shallow and deep feature fusion module (SDFF module). The former uses an adaptive filter in the spatial domain to simulate human eyes according to the region of interest (ROI) extracted by neural feedback. The latter not only extracts the shallow feature and the deep feature via transverse connection, but also uses a feature fusion unit (FFU) to fuse the pooled features together with the aim of information contribution maximization. Experiments on standard AVA dataset and Photo.net dataset show the effectiveness of FF-VEN.