bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Earthing-Up Frequency on Growth and Yield of Anchote (Coccinia abyssinica) Varieties at Gimbi District, Western Ethiopia
Authors: Wakjira Habte , Garedew Weyessa , Nebiyu Amsalu , Shifaraw Garome
Published: January 2024

Anchote (Coccinia abyssinica (Lam.) Cogn) is a tuberous root crop native to Ethiopia. It is a good source of protein, carbohydrates, calcium, and iron. However, little attention has been given to the improvement of genetic and agronomic practices such as selection of variety, staking, weeding, fertilizer application, and earthing-up frequency. Thus, the attainable yield is below the potential. The experiment was arranged in a 3 × 5 factorial arranged in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications with the objective of determining the effect of earthing-up frequency on the growth and yield of anchote varieties. The interaction effect of earthing-up frequencies and varieties significantly affected anchote leaf number plant−1, shoot dry weight plant−1, unmarketable tuber weight ha−1, vine diameter, shoot fresh weight plant−1, tuber fresh weight plant−1, marketable tuber weight ha−1, and total tuber yield ha−1. Total tuber yield ha−1 was perfectly correlated with tuber fresh weight plant−1 (r = 1), and all parameters were significantly correlated with tuber dry matter plant−1, and tuber dry matter plant−1 was positively and significantly correlated with total tuber yield ha−1 (r = 0.46). Consequently, the highest total tuber yield was observed from earthing-up four times (26.94 t ha−1) and three times (26.88 t ha−1) with Desta 01, while the lowest was observed from the control with Acc405 (15.11). The highest economical tuber yield was obtained from three times earthing-up frequency (26.878 t ha−1, 25.50 t ha−1, and 23.92 t ha−1 for Desta 01, Acc405, and Acc173), and the lowest was observed from the control (22.83 t ha−1, 15.11 t ha−1, and 21.11 t ha−1 for Desta 01, Acc405, and Acc173), respectively. Therefore, for the study area, it is better to apply three times earthing-up frequencies (35 days, 49 days, and 63 days from planting date for once, twice, and three times earthing-up, respectively) with Desta 01 variety followed by Acc405. Since the experiment was conducted using irrigation, it is suggested to be repeated under rainfed conditions to draw a definite conclusion.
Temporomandibular Joint Ankylosis as a Sequel of an Overlooked Condylar Fracture in a Child
Authors: Gharbi Manel , Kammoun Rym , Chaabani Imen , Ben Alaya Touhami
Published: January 2024

Temporomandibular joint ankylosis is an important entity that dentists and maxillofacial surgeons should know about. It clinically manifests through a permanent limitation of mandibular movements coupled with mouth opening inferior to 3 cm. This serious pathology can have serious functional repercussions, such as mastication problems, speech troubles, eating disorders, and jaw growth hindrance, in addition to the psychological difficulties in coping with such a condition in daily life. Herein, we present a radiological and chronological illustration of the evolution of temporomandibular joint ankylosis following an overlooked traumatic fracture of the mandibular condyle. The present case report involves an 8‐year‐old patient referred for a gradually evolving mouth opening limitation following a car accident. Tomodensitometry was helpful as it revealed an osseous block between the left temporomandibular joint surfaces, showing an ankylosis. Posttraumatic cerebral computed tomography scan was performed. It revealed an undetected fracture of the left condyle. The aim of this paper was to show how a traumatic ankylosis could have been avoided if enough attention was paid to the interpretation of immediate posttraumatic computed tomography scans. A thorough dental examination must be carried out once vital emergency is over. Early diagnosis of temporomandibular joint trauma is a crucial factor in preventing complications, such as ankylosis and its consequent oral dysfunctions. The dentist must automatically suspect condylar fracture when a child presents a history of head trauma, especially a mandibular trauma. This case should be a reminder that although temporomandibular joints are very often left out in patients’ vital emergency first examination, temporomandibular joints/they are still a highly important structure which omission, and thus, dysfunction, if lesions are present, can lead to nonnegligible medico‐legal consequences/that temporomandibular joints should be taken into account during patients’ vital emergency first examination because if they are neglected, in the presence of lesions, they cause dysfunction, thus leading to nonnegligible medico‐legal consequences.
Regenerative Endodontic Treatment in Dentinogenesis Imperfecta‐Induced Apical Periodontitis
Authors: Liao Ying , Pan Ting , Xing Xianghui
Published: January 2024

Pulp involvement of immature permanent teeth with dentinogenesis imperfecta is challenging and could lead to extraction. A case of dentinogenesis imperfecta‐induced periapical periodontitis of an immature permanent tooth was treated with regenerative endodontic treatment (RET), and root maturation was observed in 12‐month follow‐up. An 8‐year‐old girl presented acute pain and swelling in central mandibular region. Clinical and radiographic examination revealed “shell teeth” appearance of teeth 31, 41, and 42. Periapical lesion of tooth 31 was observed. Tooth 41 was previously treated with apexification. RET was planned and carried out for the necrotic tooth (tooth 31) with dentinogenesis imperfecta. The 1‐, 3‐, 7‐, and 12‐month postoperative recall revealed complete healing of periapical lesions. Root maturation characterized by elongation of root, thickening of dentinal walls, and closure of root apex was observed with radiographic examinations. We show that RET could be a desirable treatment for necrotic immature permanent teeth with dentinogenesis imperfecta and lead to resolution of endodontic lesions as well as maturation of dental root. The findings of this case suggest that RET should be considered by endodontist and pediatric dentist to treat teeth with similar dental anomalies and apical periodontitis.
Brain and Smartphone Addiction: A Systematic Review
Authors: Anbumalar C. , Binu Sahayam D.
Published: January 2024

In recent years, the smartphone has become ubiquitous in everyone’s lives. The smartphone has both positive and negative impacts on the users. Although addiction has been extensively studied, not much has been done to examine the association between neurofunctional regional activation and problematic smartphone use. This review, therefore, is systematically aimed at understanding the different neurofunctional regional activation differences related to smartphone addiction. The systematic review was done in four stages as follows: (1) identifying the techniques/instruments used in the literature (database search), (2) identifying relevant literature, (3) identifying criteria for inclusion and exclusion, and (4) acquiring full-text papers. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were used to conduct the systematic review. The literature was searched using the following databases: PubMed, Science Direct, Taylor & Francis, and Springer Link. The inclusion requirements were met by 7 articles out of 28896. The study on smartphone addiction with a focus on neurofunctional regional activation is limited. This review sheds light on neurofunctional regional activation associated with problematic smartphone usage. This will open the door to focused interventions and well-informed approaches to digital well-being in our technologically advanced society.
Development and Validation of a Resilience Skills Questionnaire for Health Sector Professionals Based on Social Cognitive Theory
Authors: Akbari Maryam , Mokarami Hamidreza , Cousins Rosanna , Taghanaki Changiz Rahimi , Kaveh Mohammad Hossein , Jahangiri Mehdi
Published: January 2024

Good resilience skills support effective and timely adjustment to demanding situations in the workplace. Existing tools are insufficient to develop and evaluate workplace interventions to improve employee’s resilience skills. The aim of this study was to develop and validate a Resilience Skills Questionnaire (RSQ) using the key constructs of social cognitive theory—self-efficacy, self-regulation, and social support—as a theoretical framework. Following DeVellis’ guidelines for scale development, first an expert panel of thirteen professors was recruited to support the item development stages and determine content validity. At this stage, the initial pool of 38 items was reduced to 25 items and CVR and CVI were calculated as 0.92 and 0.93, respectively, indicating good content validity. A second panel of ten health professionals confirmed face validity. An online survey comprised of the 25 developed items was then completed by 336 health professionals working in urban healthcare centers in Shiraz, Iran, in November 2021. The data were used to assess the psychometrics of the questionnaire according to its hypothesized three-dimensional structure. Confirmatory factor analysis yielded a final model of seventeen items in three dimensions, self-efficacy (six items), social support (six items), and self-regulation (five items), with good psychometric properties (χ2/df=2.44 (p<0.001), RMSEA=0.06, GFI=0.92, AGFI=0.90, IFI=0.93, CFI=0.93). All standardized factor loadings were significant (p<0.001). Internal consistency, as measured by Cronbach’s alpha, was very good: RSQ (0.90), self-efficacy (0.86), social support (0.83), and self-regulation (0.86). Based on these results, the RSQ can be used as a standard and valid measure to develop and evaluate the effect of educational intervention programs to improve resilience skills and reduce job stress.
Force Tracking Control of Lower Extremity Exoskeleton Based on a New Recurrent Neural Network
Authors: Cao Yuxuan , Chen Jie , Gao Li , Luo Jiqing , Pu Jinyun , Song Shengli
Published: January 2024

The lower extremity exoskeleton can enhance the ability of human limbs, which has been used in many fields. It is difficult to develop a precise force tracking control approach for the exoskeleton because of the dynamics model uncertainty, external disturbances, and unknown human–robot interactive force lied in the system. In this paper, a control method based on a novel recurrent neural network, namely zeroing neural network (ZNN), is proposed to obtain the accurate force tracking. In the framework of ZNN, an adaptive RBF neural network (ARBFNN) is employed to deal with the system uncertainty, and a fixed-time convergence disturbance observer is designed to estimate the external disturbance of the exoskeleton electrohydraulic system. The Lyapunov stability method is utilized to prove the convergence of all the closed-loop signals and the force tracking is guaranteed. The proposed control scheme’s (ARBFNN-FDO-ZNN) force tracking performances are presented and contrasted with the exponential reaching law-based sliding mode controller (ERL-SMC). The proposed scheme is superior to ERL-SMC with fast convergence speed and lower tracking error peak. Finally, experimental tests are conducted to verify the efficacy of the proposed controller for solving accurate force tracking control issues.
Genetically Engineered Macrophages Derived from iPSCs for Self-Regulating Delivery of Anti-Inflammatory Biologic Drugs
Authors: Klimak Molly , Guilak Farshid
Published: January 2024

In rheumatoid arthritis, dysregulated cytokine signaling has been implicated as a primary factor in chronic inflammation. Many antirheumatic and biological therapies are used to suppress joint inflammation, but despite these advances, effectiveness is not universal, and delivery is often at high doses, which can predispose patients to significant off-target effects. During chronic inflammation, the inappropriate regulation of signaling factors by macrophages accelerates the progression of disease by driving an imbalance of inflammatory cytokines, making macrophages an ideal cellular target. To develop a macrophage-based therapy to treat chronic inflammation, we engineered a novel induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived macrophage capable of delivering soluble TNF receptor 1 (sTNFR1), an anti-inflammatory biologic inhibitor of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), in an autoregulated manner in response to TNF-α. Murine iPSCs were differentiated into macrophages (iMACs) over a 17-day optimized protocol with continued successful differentiation confirmed at key timepoints. Varying inflammatory and immunomodulatory stimuli demonstrated traditional macrophage function and phenotypes. In response to TNF-α, therapeutic iMACs produced high levels of sTNFR1 in an autoregulated manner, which inhibited inflammatory signaling. This self-regulating iMAC system demonstrated the potential for macrophage-based drug delivery as a novel therapeutic approach for a variety of chronic inflammatory diseases.
Effects of Fishmeal Substitution with Mealworm Meals (Tenebrio molitor and Alphitobius diaperinus) on the Growth, Physiobiochemical Response, Digesta Microbiome, and Immune Genes Expression of Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar)
Authors: Habte-Tsion H-Michael , Hawkyard Matt , Sealey Wendy M. , Bradshaw David , Meesala Kala-Mallik , Bouchard Deborah A.
Published: January 2024

A 12‐week growth trial was conducted to assess the effects of mealworm meals, as a substitution for fishmeal, on the growth, physiobiochemical responses, digesta microbiome, and immune‐related genes expression of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar). Twenty Atlantic salmon parr (38.5 ± 0.1 g, initial weight) were stocked into each of 16 tanks in a recirculating aquaculture system. A fishmeal‐based diet (100% FM) was used as the control treatment and was compared with three test diets where: (1) fishmeal was partially (50%) replaced with defatted mealworm meal, Tenebrio molitor (50% DMM), (2) fishmeal was fully replaced with defatted mealworm meal (100% DMM), and (3) fishmeal was partially replaced with whole lesser mealworm meal, Alphitobius diaperinus (50% WMM). All substitutions were done on a crude protein basis. Each of the four experimental diets was evaluated in quadruplicate tanks as part of randomized design. The results indicated that Atlantic salmon showed high survival (greater or equal to 98.8%), and no significant difference in final growth, feed efficiency, feces stability and condition indices. Hepatosomatic index was lower in fish fed 100% DMM and 50% WMM when compared to fish fed the control diet (100% FM). Whole‐body proximate and amino acid compositions were not statistically different between treatments, while essential fatty acids, including linolenic, eicosapentaenoic acid, and homo‐a‐linolenic, were lower in fish fed 100% DMM. Plasma parameters (total protein, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, and total iron‐binding capacity), hepatic peroxide, and antioxidant enzymes were not significantly affected by dietary substitutions, whereas plasma immunoglobulin M showed significantly higher levels in fish fed 50% DMM and 100% DMM when compared to fish fed the control diet (100% FM). The inclusion of mealworm meals significantly impacted the overall microbiome composition but not the richness and evenness of the salmon digesta microbiomes compared to control. The most common genus in all treatments was Pseudomonas, which has been previously shown to have both commensal and pathogenic members. The relative expressions of growth (IGF‐I) and protein synthesis (TIPRL) were not significantly different between the treatments, whereas immunoglobulin genes (IgM, IgD, and IgT) were significantly upregulated in fish fed the DMM diets when compared to fish fed the control diet. Overall, this study suggests that the mealworm meals tested could be suitable alternatives to fishmeal in the diet of Atlantic salmon.
Characterization of Polyhexamethylene Guanidine Oligomers in Solutions and Aerosols Emitted during Humidifier Use
Authors: Kim Sunju , Yoon Chungsik
Published: January 2024

The behavior of polyhexamethylene guanidine (PHMG), the causative agent of many humidifier‐induced lung diseases, is not well known because of its various oligomer structures and analytical difficulties. The aim of this study was to identify different PHMG oligomer types both in solution and aerosols and to estimate the airborne concentration of oligomers during humidifier use. Three products containing PHMG as the main component were diluted to the manufacturer’s recommended concentration (6.5 ppm) or the worst‐case concentration (65 ppm or 125 ppm). Samples were qualitatively and quantitatively analyzed with liquid chromatography‐quadrupole time‐of‐flight (LC‐qToF) mass spectrometry in the diluted solution and in the air at 0.5 m and 1 m. The LC‐qToF data were processed using UNIFI software to characterize the PHMG structure. For all products in both the humidifier solution and air, the linear type was predominant over the branched/cyclic structure, but each product had different characteristics. The linear structure in the Oxy product, the main product of lung diseases, accounted for 90.6%, while that of the Scunder and BOC Sciences’ products accounted for 78.6% and 75.8%, respectively. The concentration of the oligomer in air for the Oxy product was estimated to be 35.89 and 390.96 μg/m3 at 6.5 and 65 ppm, respectively. Most of the oligomers in the solution were found in air at a short distance (0.5 m), with a negligible concentration beyond 1 m. Oligomers with 1–7 monomer units were identified in the humidifier solution, whereas mainly monomers, dimers, and trimers were identified in the air. The results of this study will facilitate further investigations of the mechanisms of lung disease by identifying the behaviors and forms of PHMG in the air, along with previously revealed toxicity results.
Strategies for Implementing Building Operability Certificate to Improve Performance of Building Management: A Case Study in Probolinggo City, Indonesia
Authors: Riau Dwi Putranto , Rulinawaty  , Siswahyudi Dwi , Muhtarom
Published: January 2024

An operability certificate is required before using a building. The building operability certificate concerns occupants’ safety before the building is used and is directed by Law Government Regulation 16 of 2021 for building security. This article discusses implementing a building operability certificate underperforming and the strategy for implementing the building operability certificate (SLF) policy. This research uses a descriptive qualitative method. First, qualitative data analysis utilizing SWOT determined the building operability certificate implementation strategy. Second, ranking strategies are analyzed to identify (QSPM’s) priorities. According to the regulation that every building must have SLF, the building operability certificate was not appropriately implemented. With the current building information system legislation, each region can issue Building Approval (PBG) and building operability certificate (SLF). Research findings based on SWOT and QSPM are used to generate seven strategies: Regional Apparatus Work Units (SKPD) commitment, increased socialization, regulation implementation, capacity building, optimal communication, SIMBG implementation, and increasing resources.
Design and Maintenance Optimisation of Substation Automation Systems: A Multiobjectivisation Approach Exploration
Authors: Cacereño Andrés , Greiner David , Zuñiga Andrés , Galván Blas J.
Published: January 2024

Substation automation systems (SAS) are critical infrastructures whose design and maintenance must be optimised to guarantee a suitable performance. In order to provide a collection of solutions that balance availability and cost, this paper explores the optimisation of the design and maintenance of a section of SAS. Multiobjective evolutionary algorithms are combined with discrete event simulation while the performance of two state‐of‐the‐art multiobjective evolutionary algorithms is studied. On the one hand, the nondominated sorting genetic algorithm II (NSGA‐II), and on the other hand, the S‐metric selection evolutionary multiobjective optimisation algorithm (SMS‐EMOA). Such a problem is solved from 2 and 3‐objective approaches by attending to the multiobjectivisation concept. The robustness of the methodology is brought to light, and benefits were observed from the multiobjectivisation approach. Decision‐makers can employ this knowledge to make informed decisions based on economic and reliability criteria.
Temperature-Dependent Electromagnetic Surface Wave Supported by Graphene-Loaded Indium Antimonide Planar Structure
Authors: Yaqoob M. Z. , Ali Ahtisham , Alkanhal Majeed A. S. , Ghaffar A. , Khan Y. , Umair M.
Published: January 2024

In this study, the propagation characteristics of EM surface waves supported by the graphene-coated indium antimonide (InSb) planar waveguide have been investigated theoretically and numerically. The modeling of graphene has been performed by use of Kubo formalism whereas the relative permittivity of indium antimonide has been calculated using Drude’s model. The results for transverse electric (TE) and transverse magnetic (TM) polarized surface waves have been computed analytically and numerically. The major challenge is to model the atomically thick graphene sheet over the InSb grounded slab. To get the temperature-dependent characteristic equation for the electromagnetic surface waves, the surface current boundary conditions’ approach has been employed. The numerical results have been computed for both the TE and TM polarization states and reported that the TE does not support the propagation of surface waves. The dispersion relation, effective mode index, phase speed, propagation length, and field profile have been computed in Mathematica under TM polarization. The graphene and indium antimonide have been found active for low and high Terahertz regions, respectively. As temperature increases, the plasma frequency of the InSb increases due to this reason with the increase of temperature and the resonance frequency, leading to a shift in the dispersion curve. Moreover, with the increase of temperature, the effective wave number of transverse magnetic polarized surface waves also increases. Resultantly, the confinement of such surface waves supported by graphene-loaded InSb increases. It is shown that with the variation of temperature of indium antimonide, the surface waves propagating across the interface can be tuned in the Terahertz region and can be exploited for thermo-optical sensing, near-field communications waveguides, and graphene-based temperature sensor designing.
Evolutionary Algorithm-Inspired Binary Sequence-Based Hybrid Fault Detection Method for Nonuniformly Excited Linear Antenna Array
Authors: Mitra Sandipan , Chatterjee Soumyo , Chatterjee Sayan , Gupta Bhaskar
Published: January 2024

In this article, a novel method of fault detection in nonuniformly excited linear antenna array has been reported. This method uses an evolutionary algorithm-based technique to generate approximate radiation pattern in tune with reference faulty pattern for a nonuniformly excited linear antenna array. Based on the approximation, a binary sequence-based method of exact fault detection has been developed. In order to illustrate the effectiveness of the method, 12- and 20-element Dolph Tschebyscheff linear antenna array with amplitude fault has been considered. Superiority of the proposed method has been demonstrated through comparative study.
In Silico Identification of a Potential TNF-Alpha Binder Using a Structural Similarity: A Potential Drug Repurposing Approach to the Management of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Tettevi Edward Jenner , Kuevi Deryl Nii Okantey , Sumabe Balagra Kasim , Simpong David Larbi , Maina Mahmoud B. , Dongdem Julius T. , Osei-Atweneboana Mike Y. , Ocloo Augustine
Published: January 2024

Introduction. Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder with no conclusive remedy. Yohimbine, found in Rauwolfia vomitoria, may reduce brain inflammation by targeting tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNFα), implicated in AD pathogenesis. Metoserpate, a synthetic compound, may inhibit TNFα. The study is aimed at assessing the potential utility of repurposing metoserpate for TNFα inhibition to reduce neuronal damage and inflammation in AD. The development of safe and effective treatments for AD is crucial to address the growing burden of the disease, which is projected to double over the next two decades. Methods. Our study repurposed an FDA-approved drug as TNFα inhibitor for AD management using structural similarity studies, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics simulations. Yohimbine was used as a reference compound. Molecular docking used SeeSAR, and molecular dynamics simulation used GROMACS. Results. Metoserpate was selected from 10 compounds similar to yohimbine based on pharmacokinetic properties and FDA approval status. Molecular docking and simulation studies showed a stable interaction between metoserpate and TNFα over 100 ns (100000 ps). This suggests a reliable and robust interaction between the protein and ligand, supporting the potential utility of repurposing metoserpate for TNFα inhibition in AD treatment. Conclusion. Our study has identified metoserpate, a previously FDA-approved antihypertensive agent, as a promising candidate for inhibiting TNFα in the management of AD.
Shameless Dogs: Cynics and Nonhuman Animal Ethics
Authors: Turp Michael-John
Published: January 2024

Various philosophical systems have been applied to questions of nonhuman animal ethics, but the ancient Cynics have been ignored despite their close association with dogs and their commitment to philosophy as a way of life. After explaining the neglect and clearing away some obstacles to treating Cynic ethics seriously, this article looks closely at Cynic shamelessness and its connection with conventions that may fail to withstand critical scrutiny. It then goes on to discuss Diogenes’ relationship with food conventions and explores what ancient Cynicism has to offer when it comes to thinking through virtuous relationships between humans and other animals.
Rethinking Perioperative Antibiotic Prophylaxis for Low-Risk Head and Neck Procedures
Authors: Nelson Avery , Baur Jordan W. , Lew Alison , Pettit Natasha N. , Nguyen Cynthia T.
Published: January 2024

Objective:

For true clean-contaminated head and neck procedures, the literature supports ≤24 hours of perioperative antibiotics. However, there are certain otolaryngology procedures with low surgical site infection (SSI) risk for which there is negligible benefit from antibiotic prophylaxis. The objective of this evaluation was to describe antibiotic use and adherence to evidence-based institutional guidelines in low-risk head and neck procedures.

Methods:

This was a single-center, retrospective cohort study of patients undergoing low-risk clean-contaminated head and neck procedures wherein antibiotic prophylaxis was not indicated, based on evidence-based institutional guidelines.

Results:

Among the 291 included patients, perioperative antibiotics were unnecessarily administered in 29% of patients. Among patients who received antibiotics, 76% received preoperative antibiotics and 41% received postoperative antibiotics, for a median duration of 7 days. There were no significant differences in SSIs, mortality, and length of stay for those receiving perioperative antibiotics versus those not receiving perioperative antibiotics.

Conclusion:

These data highlight the need for antibiotic stewardship interventions and partnerships between antibiotic stewardship teams and surgical services.
Promoting health education through collaborative writing sessions in the Dominican Republic
Authors: Chapman Helena J , Veras-Estévez Bienvenido A
Published: January 2024

Objective:

This study explored medical trainees’ understanding of collaborative writing sessions in the Dominican Republic as a strategy to strengthen their technical writing and critical analysis skills in health education and communication.

Method:

We conducted semi-structured interviews with seven medical trainees who participated in a series of collaborative writing sessions and published their articles in medical journals. Thematic analysis was used to study coded notes and identify salient themes with quotations and a conceptual model.

Results:

Five perceived individual- and programme-level enabling factors of the collaborative writing sessions were described: (1) detailed agenda, (2) direct mentorship, (3) effective teamwork, (4) personal investment and dedication, and (5) future vision.

Conclusion:

Study findings highlight that collaborative writing sessions with direct mentorship offers medical trainees a unique opportunity to acquire key written communication and analytical competencies and publish their articles, as part of their professional development. The incorporation of these valuable health education training exercises for health professional students can help develop an academic culture of writing and publishing on emerging global health topics.
Social ties in and out of the neighbourhood: Between compensation and cumulation
Authors: Cayouette-Remblière Joanie , Charmes Eric
Published: January 2024

The central question addressed in this article is how social ties within and outside the neighbourhood are articulated in different contexts for various population groups. Two major perspectives emerge from the literature on personal networks, neighbourhood effects, and neighbourhood-based social capital. The first assumes a compensation mechanism, whereby local and extra-local ties flourish at each other’s expense. The second considers that these two types of ties can be cumulated. After presenting the interpretations and empirical data that support these two perspectives and highlighting the persistent ambiguity on the issue, they are tested with the support of an original survey of 2572 people in 14 neighbourhoods in the Paris and Lyon metropolitan regions. A range of indicators for social ties is used to build two indices, one for local ties and one for extra-local ties. The article then examines variations between these indices as a function of individual characteristics and contexts to test whether compensation or cumulation exists between the local and extra-local ties. The main findings are, first, that local and extra-local ties each evolve along one dimension. In particular, working-class social ties do not appear to have a specific pattern. Second, compensation exists, but cumulation of local and extra-local ties is predominant. Lastly, this cumulation is a factor of inequalities. It benefits those with the most resources in terms of income, qualifications and occupation, as well as the residents of upper-class or gentrified neighbourhoods. Geographical origins also play a role for the descendants of immigrants, who establish fewer extra-local ties.
Event-triggered adaptive command-filtered trajectory tracking control for underactuated surface vessels based on multivariate finite-time disturbance observer under actuator faults and input saturation
Authors: Meng Xiangfei , Zhang Guichen , Zhang Qiang , Han Bing
Published: January 2024

This paper is aiming at enabling the underactuated surface vessels (USVs) to complete the tracking task with high precision and fast convergence under the influence of unknown external interference, dynamic uncertainty, input saturation, limited communication resources, and actuator failure. Specifically, a trajectory tracking control scheme is designed using virtual control switching, robust self-adaptation, finite-time, event-triggered, and disturbance compensation techniques. The norm calculation is performed on the lateral and longitudinal errors of the underactuated USVs, and the virtual guidance direction of the system is obtained through virtual control conversion. The hyperbolic tangent function is introduced and combined with adaptive technology to compensate the dynamic uncertainty of the system. Through the multivariate finite-time disturbance observer (MFTDO), the unknown disturbance and the bias fault factor of the system are compensated. The tracking performance of the system is further improved using the finite-time technology and combined with the event-triggered technology to reduce the update frequency of the controller signal. Using Lyapunov stability theory, a detailed stability analysis is provided for the control scheme. Finally, the effectiveness of the control design scheme is verified by simulation.
Model predictive control for pose synchronization of satellite proximity via the Takagi–Sugeno fuzzy modeling method
Authors: Chuqi Sun , Yan Xiao , Dong Ye , Junyan Hou , Zhaowei Sun
Published: January 2024

On-orbit servicing has become one of the challenging frontiers of space operations. Most of the on-orbit missions require an important technology, pose synchronization, to prepare or implement the tasks. The nonlinearity caused by the couple between orbit and attitude often brings inconvenience when designing series of control strategies. This paper addresses a novel reformulation for pose dynamics based on dual quaternion, in which the problem of the nonlinearity of pose coupled dynamics for rigid spacecraft is mainly concerned. In this research, we intend to use the Takagi–Sugeno (TS) fuzzy modeling method to remodel the pose dynamics based on dual quaternion. Based on the reconstructed model, the original nonlinear system can be equivalently linearized in the fuzzy field. Subsequently, a global stabilized controller for system stabilization as a feasible control scheme is proposed. For further research, a feedback-based model predictive control (MPC) strategy is proposed to optimize the fuel consumption during the stabilization of the system. Finally, numerical simulations are provided to verify the effectiveness of the proposed modeling and control strategies.
Event-triggered control of switched 2D continuous-discrete systems
Authors: Luo Maosen , Huang Shipei , Yan Zhengbing , Zhang Zhengjiang , Zeng Guoqiang
Published: January 2024

This paper is concerned with the event-triggered control of switched two-dimensional (2D) continuous-discrete systems in Roesser model. A more general event-triggered scheme is proposed to reduce unnecessary resource waste and data redundancy, where a weighing coefficient and multiple parameter matrices are used. Based on the proposed event-triggered mechanism, a state feedback controller and a state-dependent switching signal are proposed. By using the multiple Lyapunov function method, sufficient conditions for the exponential stability of the closed-loop system are derived in terms of linear matrix inequalities. Finally, two examples are provided to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Delay-independent control for synchronization of memristor-based BAM neural networks with parameter perturbation and strong mismatch via finite-time technology
Authors: Zhou Lili , Zhang Huiying , Tan Fei , Liu Kaiyue
Published: January 2024

This paper mainly studies the synchronization problem of memristor-based bidirectional associative memory neural networks (MBAMNNs) via finite-time technology. Different from the existing neural network dynamic models, the given model in this paper is focused on the impact of parameter perturbation and strong mismatch, where strong mismatch includes parameter mismatch and time-varying delay mismatch. These characteristics can make the model be closer to the actual situation. A delay-independent feedback control scheme, which can stabilize the error system within finite-time regardless of whether the past state is known or not, is designed. It is worth noting that the constant is replaced by a function with the exponential term in the delay-independent controller, which can save the control cost to a certain extent. Based on the integral inequality technique, some sufficient conditions for MBAMNNs to converge to the equilibrium point within finite-time are provided. The validity and correctness of the theoretical results are finally confirmed by numerical simulation.
Event-triggered sliding mode control for networked control systems with actuator faults: Application to gas turbine system
Authors: Wang Jiaqi , Hu Boyong , Lu Lu , Zhong Wenjing , Fang Fang , Liu Yajuan
Published: January 2024

This paper presents an event-triggered sliding mode fault-tolerant control method for networked control systems with actuator faults and external disturbance. First, an event-triggered scheme in the networked control systems is proposed to reduce the number of data transmission. In addition, considering the event-triggering, a sliding mode surface based on the system structure is constructed. Besides, to obtain the controller parameters that meet the [Formula: see text] performance, the bounded real lemma in the form of linear matrix inequality is obtained using the Lyapunov functional. In addition, a sliding mode fault-tolerant control is designed to guarantee that the system can still run stably under the condition of faults and disturbances. Finally, the simulation results of gas turbine system are given to verify the feasibility of the theoretical method.
Martín-Barbero’s style
Authors: Rincón Omar
Published: January 2024

In Latin America, Jesús Martín-Barbero is a pop star and a beloved scholar with thousands of followers captured by his original way of thinking, imagining, and researching the relations between communication, culture, and politics. This essay explains five characteristics of Martín-Barbero’s style: (i) his reflections about expressions of popular and mass culture such as music, telenovelas, fairs, and celebrations; (ii) his gaze at and from local territories, identities; (iii) his innovative way of thinking from the Global South while in conversation with Western philosophy; (iv) his proposal for a theory of mediations as a way to understand cultural interactions and the production of social meaning; and (v) an intellectual passion that led him to engage daringly in political issues in society. As one of his students and colleagues, the essay ends with my own notions of what a communication researcher should do/be.
Relationship between difference of preoperative and cardiopulmonary bypass mean arterial pressure, and acute kidney injury in cardiac surgical patients undergoing valve surgery
Authors: Dhanyee Anity Singh , Parida Satyen , Thangaswamy Chitra Rajeswari , Jha Ajay Kumar , Rajappa Medha , Munuswamy Hemachandren , Mishra Sandeep Kumar
Published: January 2024

Background

Modifiable and non-modifiable factors contribute to development and progression of acute kidney injury (AKI) during cardiac surgery. We hypothesized that, the difference between preoperative mean arterial pressure (MAP) and the average mean arterial pressure maintained on cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) would be strongly predictive of AKI. We also measured plasma Neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL), to establish its association with cardiac surgery associated-AKI (CSA-AKI).

Methods

One hundred and twelve high-risk patients undergoing valve, and valve plus coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery under cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) were included in this study. Delta mean arterial pressure (MAP) was calculated as the difference between the average of pre-operative and on-bypass MAP, and blood was sampled for NGAL levels, at baseline, and 6-h after CPB. Detailed data collection was done, tabulating most of the factors which might influence development of post-operative cardiac surgery associated-AKI (CSA-AKI). To define CSA-AKI within the first 24-h post-operatively, the Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) classification was used.

Results

Out of 112 patients, 44 (39.3%) developed CSA-AKI postoperatively. With an ROC analysis cut-off of delta MAP of more than 25.67 mmHg, 46.4% patients developed post-operative AKI, and the average CPB flows which were 1.8 ± 0.2 were not contributory to the development of early CSA-AKI. In our study, ELISA test for human NGAL was performed on serum samples, and the estimated cut-off value of 1661 ng/mL was found to be significantly associated with early CSA-AKI.

Conclusions

Delta MAP and CPB flows are not related to early post-surgical CSA-AKI in cases with prior high-risk elements. However, baseline serum NGAL, as well as its percent change during the early post-surgical period independently predicted the development of CSA-AKI. This implies that, there may be patients with a higher pre-operative preponderance to develop this complication, which could actually be delineated by the use of serum NGAL estimations at baseline.
Laser-sclerosing foam hybrid treatment, a non-tumescent technique for insufficient great saphenous vein ablation
Authors: Victoria M Gerardo E , Rujano A Adrian J , Zilipo Giacomo M
Published: January 2024

Objective

We aim to report on the Laser-Sclerosing Foam Hybrid Treatment (LSFHT) and its outcomes when used on patients with great saphenous vein (GSV) insufficiency.

Methods

This was a single center retrospective cohort study on patients with GSV insufficiency that were treated with the LSFHT technique, a surgical procedure that comprises the use of both sclerosing foam and endovenous ablation and avoids the use of tumescent anesthesia. Occlusion rates and complications were reported.

Results

139 legs from 106 patients were operated, achieving a 100% occlusion rate, while only a small burn and 2 popliteal vein thrombosis cases occurred.

Conclusion

The study suggests that the LSFHT is a feasible fast procedure that proved both effective and safe for the treatment of GSV insufficiency.
Discovering Practitioners’ Knowledge and Use of Evidence-Based Practices for Autism Early Childhood Interventions
Authors: Layden Selena J. , Coleman Heather , Gansle Kristin A. , Amsbary Jessica
Published: January 2024

Young children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) require supports and services designed to meet their unique needs. Research has identified 27 evidence-based practices (EBPs) for children ages birth to 5 years. However, there is a paucity of research that examines whether early childhood providers are implementing EBPs with children with ASD. In this study we determined the levels of training, confidence, and frequency of EBP implementation by U.S.-based early childhood providers, including early childhood educators and early intervention providers. These findings indicate gaps in both knowledge and implementation of EBPs. Implications for research and practice are discussed.
Is motherhood still possible after pelvic carbon ion radiotherapy? A promising combined fertility-preservation approach
Authors: Barcellini Amelia , Cassani Chiara , Orlandi Ester , Nappi Rossella E. , Broglia Federica , Delmonte Maria Paola , Molinelli Silvia , Vai Alessandro , Vitolo Viviana , Gronchi Alessandro , D’Ambrosio Gioacchino , Cobianchi Lorenzo , Fiore Maria Rosaria
Published: January 2024

Introduction:

Preserving the endocrine and reproductive function in young female cancer patients undergoing pelvic radiation is a significant challenge. While the photon beam radiation's adverse effects on the uterus and ovaries are well established, the impact of pelvic carbon ion radiotherapy on women's reproductive function is largely unexplored. Strategies such as oocyte cryopreservation and ovarian transposition are commonly recommended for safeguarding future fertility.

Methods:

This study presents a pioneering case of successful pregnancy after carbon ion radiotherapy for locally advanced sacral chondrosarcoma.

Results:

A multidisciplinary approach facilitated the displacement of ovaries and uterus before carbon ion radiotherapy, resulting in the preservation of endocrine and reproductive function.

Conclusion:

The patient achieved optimal oncological response and delivered a healthy infant following the completion of cancer treatment.
Non-neoplastic cells as prognostic biomarkers in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma: A system review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zhao Min , Wang Lixing , Wang Xingyu , He Juan , Yu Kuai , Li Dan
Published: January 2024

The microenvironment of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is composed of various components, including immune cells and immune checkpoints, some of which have been correlated with the prognosis of DLBCL, but their results remain controversial. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate the association between the microenvironment and prognosis in DLBCL. We searched PubMed, Web of Science, and EMBASE for relevant articles between 2001 and 2022. Twenty-five studies involving 4495 patients with DLBCL were included in the analysis. This meta-analysis confirmed that high densities of Foxp3+Tregs and PD-1+T cells are good indicators for overall survival (OS) in DLBCL, while high densities of programmed cell death protein ligand1(PD-L1)-positive expression cells and T-cell immunoglobulin-and mucin domain-3-containing molecule 3 (TIM-3)-positive expression tumor-infiltrating cells (TILs) play a contrary role in OS. Additionally, higher numbers of T-cell intracytoplasmic antigen-1(TIA-1)-positive expression T cells imply better OS and progression-free survival (PFS), while high numbers of lymphocyte activation gene(LAG)-positive expression TILs predict bad OS and PFS. Various non-tumoral cells in the microenvironment play important roles in the prognosis of DLBCL.
Evaluating Signal Preemption Requests in Utah Using Vehicle-to-Everything Dedicated Short-Range Communication Equipped Snowplows
Authors: Lau Samantha K. , Schultz Grant G. , Shoaf Mason , Bassett David , Eggett Dennis L.
Published: January 2024

At the start of the 2019 to 2020 snow season, vehicle-to-everything (V2X) systems using dedicated short-range communication (DSRC) were placed on Utah Department of Transportation snowplows and traffic signal controllers on selected state routes. This study was conducted to understand the overall impacts of snowplows using V2X DSRC to request signal preemption. Roadside units (RSUs) were deployed on five corridors throughout the Salt Lake metropolitan area. Similar routes without RSUs were selected as a control and were used in the analysis to quantify results. Each snowplow on these corridors was equipped with an onboard unit (OBU). Based on data collected, analysis was performed on both traffic signal performance and vehicle performance data. Within the traffic signal performance analysis, it was found that the V2X DSRC system was utilized often, with snowplows requesting preemption in more 50% of the occasions they approached a signalized intersection. Of those requests, signal controllers granted preemption in over 80% of cases. On average, signal controller coordination was affected for less than 5 min. The vehicle performance analysis found that the snowplows on equipped routes had travel speeds that were less affected when there was snow than on corresponding not-equipped routes. Vehicle crash data also showed that there was a greater decrease in crashes on equipped routes than not-equipped routes. Anecdotal evidence gathered from snowplow drivers indicated that snowplows stopped less when using signal preemption. Drivers also noted a benefit to overall snow removal operations on corridors equipped with the V2X DSRC system.