bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring Altered Neural Connectivity in Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Simulation of Spatial and Topological Proximities
Authors:   Universidade de Aveiro, Portugal, Montgomery Richard Murdoch
Published: September 2024

This study presents a computational simulation to explore the distinctive patterns of neural connectivity in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), focusing on the concepts of spatial and topological proximities. ASD is characterized by unique cognitive and behavioral profiles, often attributed to atypical neural development and connectivity. Our simulation employs a two-pronged approach: first, by modeling spatial proximity through the generation of clustered 3D node positions, we mimic the observed over-connectivity in localized brain regions in ASD. Second, we construct a topological network to represent the complex interplay of under-connectivity and over- connectivity in functional brain networks, a hallmark of ASD's neural landscape. The spatial model demonstrates pronounced clustering, reflecting the structural brain differences and atypical growth patterns reported in neuroimaging studies of individuals with ASD. In contrast, the topological model reveals a network with a mix of sparse and dense connections, simulating the diverse and often contradictory findings of functional connectivity in ASD, such as reduced long-range connections and increased local connections. Our simulation provides a visual and conceptual framework for understanding the altered neural connectivity in ASD. It underscores the importance of considering both physical (spatial) and functional (topological) aspects of brain connectivity to grasp the full extent of neurodevelopmental deviations in ASD. This approach not only aids in elucidating the neural underpinnings of ASD's core symptoms but also offers a foundation for developing targeted interventions. Future research, integrating more complex and individual- specific data, could further refine this model, enhancing our understanding of ASD's neural dynamics and contributing to personalized therapeutic strategies.
A Study to Assess the Knowledge Regarding Management of Nomophobia Among Adolescents in Selected School at Pathanamthitta District With a View to Develop an Information Booklet
Authors:   College of Nursing Guru Education Trust, India, John Shani , Kunjumon Sibi , Mariam Jacob Sneha , Jose Sona , R Sreelakshmi , Sebastian Treesa , Aswathy Joy Elsa , John Shina ,   College of Nursing Guru Education Trust, India
Published: September 2024

Fear of being away from smartphone is one of the emerging disorder which is termed as“NOMOPHOBIA” that is NO-Mobile phone-PHOBIA. People get very anxious when they lose their mobile phone, run out of battery or due to less network connectivity. It is a fast spreading global disorder, which is neglected and not taken seriously among adolescents. Nowadays in the pandemic scenario, the life has totally changed and the mobile phone is considered as necessity. This change has great impact in health of people especially adolescents. This study was aimed to assess the knowledge regarding management of nomophobia among young adolescents in selected school of Pathanamthitta district with a view to develop an information booklet. The objectives of study were to assess the knowledge regarding management of nomophobia among adolescents, to find the association between knowledge regarding management of nomophobia with selected demographic variables, to develop an information booklet regarding management of nomophobia. Research design adopted for the study was descriptive research design, non-probability convenience sampling technique was carried to select the study subjects, and the study was conducted on 120 young adolescents of Believers Church Residential School Thiruvalla after getting consent from the participant and higher authority. The data is collected using Structured Knowledge Questionnaire method. The study shows that the most of the young adolescents have average knowledge of 47.5%, 30.83% have good knowledge and 21.66% have poor knowledge regarding management of nomophobia. The study also shows significant association between knowledge regarding management of nomophobia among young adolescents and selected socio-demographic variables like age, gender, education, area of living, relative position in family, income, frequency and duration of smartphone usage and previous knowledge regarding management of nomophobia. After the completion of data collection process and analysis of data, an information booklet was provided describing the information about concept, symptoms, consequences and management of nomophobia [1]
Relationship between the Adoption of BARS Teacher Evaluation Model and its Impact on Student Performance
Authors:   Graduate Psychology Department, Purdue University Global, Karnia Richard
Published: September 2024

There currently is a mismatch in the outcomes in education between teacher performance evaluation models and student outcomes. Data from Illinois State Board of Education shows teachers in one district have a 99.7% of teachers meeting excellent or proficient standards, while only 13% of 11th graders can read at grade level. The research will identify trends in performance evaluation and how the application of theories of industrial-organizational psychology can play in shaping and improving current teacher evaluation models. Professional development and evaluations should be linked to quantitative data which does not exist current evaluation models. The development of behavioral anchored rating scale would be a stronger evaluation model for teacher versus existing graphic rating scales. This should then lead to the development for a BARS model tied to each subject matter to increase the validity and reliability in teacher evaluations. Current teacher evaluation models do not properly assess teacher’s knowledge, skills, abilities and other characteristics, and the implementation of a performance evaluation model for teachers based on a Behavior Anchored Rating Scale will lead to improvement is student outcomes.
Zonal Garnet from Eclogite-Blueschist Complexes - Recorder of the History of their Development
Authors:   D.S. Korzhinskii Institute of Experimental Mineralogy, Russian Academy of Sciences, ul. Akademika Osip’yana 4, Russia, Fedkin Valentin
Published: September 2024

Garnet has a unique ability to maintain its composition in the situation of changing conditions of metamorphism and fix the chemical changes in the new grains, outgrowths and replacements associated with the evolution of mineral formation parameters. These properties and capabilities of garnet were studied by the phase correspondence and mineralogical thermobarometry methods using the example of the Maksyutov (Southern Urals) and the Atbashi (South Tien Shan) complexes of crustal mafic eclogites, where they are used as PT indicators of their formation conditions. The issue is considered against the background of solving a specific petrological problem - the origin in eclogite-blueschist complexes (EBSK) of contrasting series of rocks - high-pressure eclogite blocks, boudins and interlayers in the thickness of a weakly metamorphosed gneiss-schist matrix. In the polymetamorphic Maksyutov complex, the garnet demonstrates complex multidirectional, sometimes inversion zoning, which reflects the features of mineral formation at each stage of its development. The corresponding PT trends bear signs of the determining processes of the formation of the complex - tectonic melange and coherent development. In the one-stage Atbashi eclogite-blueschist complex, inversion PT trends in the evolution of metamorphism are noted with a turn in their direction clockwise, indicating a transition from a tectonic melange setting to a coherent stage of the terrane development.
Influence of Solar Dipole Field on Earthquake Occurrence
Authors: Yilmaz Aysegul
Published: September 2024

According to elastic rebound theory, a tectonic earthquake occurs often along faults, narrow zones where rock masses move in relation to one another. Then strains accumulated in these rock masses cause the stresses exceeding the strength of the rocks, a sudden fracturing results in an earthquake. The major fault lines of the Earth are located at the fringes of the huge tectonic plates that make up Earth’s crust. As a new aspect of Earth-Planetary Science, our study investigates influence of solar magnetic field on triggering earthquake by comparing variations in Number of World’s Earthquakes (NEQKs) and Solar Equatorial Dipole Field (SEDF) [1]. In the following sections, to investigate the connection between solar magnetic field and earthquake occurrence we introduce an model for the outer core of Earth and consider the contributions from centripetal and cenrifugal foce applied by axial and equatorial dipole field of Earth, respectively coupling to axial and dipole fields of Sun throughout the interplanetary magnetic field during a solar cycle.
Financial Literacy, Perceived Justice in the Tax System and Tax Compliance: A Sub-Saharan African Perspective
Authors: Anaman Prince Dacosta , Ahmed Ibrahim Anyass , Amanamah Richmell
Published: September 2024

This study explores the relationship between financial literacy, perceived justice in the tax system, and tax compliance behaviour among individuals in Ghana's informal sector. Using a self-administered questionnaire, data was collected from business owners in the Greater Accra region. The data was analysed using descriptive statistics, correlation, and multiple regression analyses in SPSS and Process MACRO for SPSS. The results indicate that higher levels of financial literacy and perceptions of justice in the tax system positively influence tax compliance. Furthermore, perceived justice moderates the relationship between financial literacy and tax compliance, with the relationship being stronger when individuals perceive the tax system as fair. These findings suggest that both financial literacy and an equitable tax system are essential in fostering voluntary tax compliance in Ghana’s informal sector. The study highlights the need for policymakers to create and sustain transparent and fair tax systems, alongside implementing financial literacy programs tailored to the needs of the informal sector. Thus, by improving the perception of tax fairness and enhancing financial literacy, there is potential for increased voluntary tax compliance, which could result in higher tax revenues and better funding for public services. This, in turn, could contribute to the overall economic growth and development of Ghana.
Evaluación de la eficacia de las escalas de comportamiento en odontopediatría: Revisión de la Literatura
Authors: Orellana Calderón María Belén , Cedillo Armijos María de Lourdes
Published: September 2024

Introducción. Las escalas de comportamiento son herramientas fundamentales en odontopediatría para evaluar y gestionar la ansiedad y el comportamiento de los niños durante el tratamiento dental. La identificación y manejo adecuado de estos factores es crucial para el éxito del tratamiento y la satisfacción del paciente. Objetivo. Evaluar la eficacia de diversas escalas de comportamiento utilizadas en odontopediatría.  Metodología. Se revisaron y analizaron 50 estudios que refieren el uso de diferentes escalas de comportamiento en niños durante procedimientos dentales. Entre las escalas evaluadas se encuentran la Frankl Behavior Rating Scale, la Children’s Fear Survey Schedule-Dental Subscale (CFSS-DS) y la Venham Anxiety and Behavioral Rating Scale. Los estudios fueron seleccionados con base en su uso de estas herramientas para medir ansiedad y comportamiento, así como su reporte de fiabilidad y validez. Resultados. Las escalas de comportamiento como la de Frankl y la CFSS-DS demostraron alta fiabilidad y eficacia en la evaluación de la ansiedad y el comportamiento dental en niños. La aplicación de técnicas adicionales, como la sedación intranasal y la musicoterapia, también mostró una mejora significativa en la cooperación y reducción de la ansiedad, respaldadas por estas escalas. Los estudios indicaron que la edad, las experiencias previas y el estilo de crianza influyen en los niveles de ansiedad y comportamiento durante los tratamientos dentales. Conclusión.  Las escalas de comportamiento son herramientas efectivas para evaluar y gestionar la ansiedad y el comportamiento en odontopediatría. Su uso permite personalizar las intervenciones y mejorar los resultados del tratamiento dental en niños. Área de estudio general: Odontología. Área de estudio específica: Odontopediatría. Tipo de estudio: Revisión bibliográfica.
Estudio de factores asociados a la infertilidad masculina, su relación con la fragmentación del ADN y alteraciones en el espermograma de pacientes que acudieron a una clínica de fertilidad
Authors: Siavichay Gómez Lorena , Rosendo Chalma Pedro , González Cabrera Adriana Nohemí
Published: September 2024

Introducción. La infertilidad es un problema de salud a nivel mundial y se define por la imposibilidad de lograr un embarazo después de 12 meses o más de relaciones sexuales regulares sin protección.  Objetivo.  Identificar y relacionar factores asociados a la infertilidad masculina con la integridad del ADN espermático y con los parámetros seminales de pacientes que asistieron a una clínica de fertilidad. Metodología: Este estudio es de tipo descriptivo no experimental, y comprendió 269 pacientes que fueron atendidos en el Centro de Reproducción Humana Biogepa de la ciudad de Cuenca durante enero del 2017 a diciembre del 2021. Se evaluó diferentes parámetros seminales y la integridad  del ADN espermático mediante técnica de dispersión de cromatina (SCD). Resultados: Las ocupaciones de comerciante y oficinista fueron las más relevantes en los pacientes que participaron en el estudio. A su vez se identificó que los sujetos que reportaron no consumir ningún tipo de sustancia adictiva o recreativa se relacionaron a 15 grupos de alteraciones en el espermograma: uno con mono alteración, siete con di alteraciones, cuatro con tri alteraciones, uno con tetra alteración y dos con penta alteraciones. Además, los pacientes de todos los grupos etarios presentaron 3 mono alteraciones (Azoo, Hipo y Terato), una di alteración  (Asteno- Terato), una tri alteración  (Hipo-Asteno-Terato), y una penta alteración   (Hipo-Oligo-Asteno-Necro- Terato). Por último, se relacionó los diferentes niveles de fragmentación de ADN espermático con los distintos grupos etarios y los diagnósticos obtenidos. Se observó que la di alteración (Asteno-Terato), se presenta en todos los grupos etarios, mostrando nivel de fragmentación de ADN buena y media. Conclusión: La calidad seminal pudiera estar asociada a diversos factores del entorno individual, lo que pudiera afectar a la infertilidad masculina. A su vez, la fragmentación del ADN espermático está   relacionada con las alteraciones en el espermograma. Área de estudio genera Medicina. Área de estudio específica: Andrología. Tipo de estudio:  Artículos originales.
Inadvertent User Outcomes of Wearable Health Technology
Authors: Cafritz Jeremy
Published: September 2024

Wearable health technologies are designed to improve a user’s self-awareness of their state of health and increase motivation and physical activity, but there is limited understanding of the psychological and behavioral impact these devices have. The present research attempts to further clarify the influence of individual characteristics on the cognitive, affective, and behavioral outcomes of activity tracker usage, including the development of dependency. A cross-sectional study of 212 college students who used activity trackers was conducted to evaluate the psychological and behavioral impact of activity tracker usage and users’ affective response to their device. Participants expressed more positive affect while wearing their device as opposed to when they were unable to wear it. Female participants exhibited more positive affect than male participants while wearing their device but less when unable to wear it. Only 9% of the sample reported a dependency effect. The dependency effect was negatively associated with intrinsic motivation to be physically active, motivation by the idea of success, and the personality traits of agreeableness and conscientiousness. The dependency effect was positively associated with extrinsic motivation for physical activity and tracker usage, as well as need for cognitive closure. This research elucidates the unintended outcomes of activity tracker usage along with the individual characteristics that present as predictors of these outcomes. KEYWORDS: Health Wearables; Activity Trackers; Physical Activity; Motivation; Dependency; Gamification; Personality
PENGEMBANGAN STRATEGI PEMASARAN BERBASIS DIGITAL UMKM KERIPIK CEKER MEK SULESTRI
Authors: Nonny Wukirasi Wijaya Patty  , Gusi Putu Lestara Permana
Published: September 2024

Pengembangan strategi pemasaran melalui digital marketing perlu dilakukan oleh UMKM Keripik Ceker Mek Sulestri, mengingat saat ini dengan ketersediaanya jaringan internet di semua pelosok daerah terkhususnya Desa Sampalan Tengah. Tujuan pengabdian kepada masyarakat ini adalah adanya peralihan pemasaran yang sebelumnya dilakukan secara konvensional dan tradisional ke arah digital marketing. Untuk pengguna smartphone yang selama ini hanya digunakan hanya untuk berkomunikasi dengan bertukar pesan, sudah saatnya dugunakan sebagai media untuk memasarkan produk. Dengan begitu, produk dipasarkan secara luas dan dapat meningkatkan pendapatan. Pelaksanaan kegiatan ini dilakukan dengan beberapa tahapan yang dilakukan melalui tahap persiapan, plaksanaan pembuatan akun digital untuk pemasaran serta tahapan evaluasi. Hasil pelaksanaan kegiatan pengabdian ini, berdampak positif bagi pelaku UMKM Keripik Ceker Mek Sulestri dalam segi pemahaman, pemanfaatan, serta kesadaran akan pentingnya pemasaran secara digital baik melalui media internet, media sosial dan media lainnya.
On the influence of structural and chemical properties on the elastic modulus of woven bone under healing
Authors: Blázquez-Carmona Pablo , Mora-Macías Juan , Pajares Antonia , Mármol Álvaro , Reina-Romo Esther
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Woven bone, a heterogeneous and temporary tissue in bone regeneration, is remodeled by osteoblastic and osteoclastic activity and shaped by mechanical stress to restore healthy tissue properties. Characterizing this tissue at different length scales is crucial for developing micromechanical models that optimize mechanical parameters, thereby controlling regeneration and preventing non-unions.

Methods

This study examines the temporal evolution of the mechanical properties of bone distraction callus using nanoindentation, ash analysis, micro-CT for trabecular microarchitecture, and Raman spectroscopy for mineral quality. It also establishes single- and two-parameter power laws based on experimental data to predict tissue-level and bulk mechanical properties.

Results

At the macro-scale, the tissue exhibited a considerable increase in bone fraction, controlled by the widening of trabeculae. The Raman mineral-to-matrix ratios increased to cortical levels during regeneration, but the local elastic modulus remained lower. During healing, the tissue underwent changes in ash fraction and in the percentages of Calcium and Phosphorus. Six statistically significant power laws were identified based on the ash fraction, bone fraction, and chemical and Raman parameters.

Discussion

The microarchitecture of woven bone plays a more significant role than its chemical composition in determining the apparent elastic modulus of the tissue. Raman parameters were demonstrated to provide more significant power laws correlations with the micro-scale elastic modulus than mineral content from ash analysis.
The effect of blood flow-restrictive resistance training on the risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease in middle-aged patients with type 2 diabetes: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Ma Xiaojun , Lin Xuandong , Zhou Lei , Li Wen , Yi Qinyu , Lei Fulian , Tang Xuan , Ai Yuxin , Zhan Yating , Luo Huanyan , Wang Liduo , Lei Fenfang , He Binghua , Yang Fan , Ruan Sijie
Published: October 2024

Introduction

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of blood flow-restrictive resistance training (BFR-RT) on improving metabolic abnormalities, blood pressure (BP), obesity, and 10-year atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk in middle-aged patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Method

We conducted a parallel-group, single blind randomized controlled trial. Participants who met the inclusion criteria were randomly divided into control group, BFR-RT group and aerobic exercise (AE) group. Control group received health education and follow-up; Two exercise groups received supervised collective training for a period of six months, three times per week. AE group trained at moderate-intensity for 60 minutes each time, while BFR-RT group trained at low-intensity for 40 minutes each time. The primary outcomes were change in 10-year ASCVD risk index and level, and the secondary outcomes included changes in fasting plasma glucose (FPG), glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), blood lipids, BP, and obesity level within and across the three groups at baseline, the third and sixth months of intervention.

Result

Among 93 individuals (control group, n=31; AE, n=30; BFR-RT, n=32) were analyzed. At baseline, there were no significant differences in various indicators among the three groups (p>0.05). After intervention, the 10-year ASCVD risk index and risk level of both exercise groups significantly decreased compared to the control group and baseline (p<0.05), and the risk reduction became more pronounced over time. In the sixth month of intervention, the 10-year ASCVD risk index in the AE group decreased by 27.40%, and that in the BFR-RT group decreased by 26.78%. Meanwhile, apart from lipoprotein (a) and diastolic blood pressure, both exercise groups showed significant improvements in FPG, HbA1c, dyslipidemia, systolic blood pressure, and obesity indicators compared to the control group and baseline (p<0.05). There was no significant difference in various indicators between the two exercise groups (p>0.05).

Conclusion

BFR-RT could reduce the 10-year ASCVD risk in middle-aged T2DM patients for by improving metabolic abnormalities, BP and obesity, and its effect was similar to that of moderate-intensity AE.

Clinical trial registration

https://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.html?proj=178886, identifier ChiCTR2300074357.
CAR immunotherapy in autoimmune diseases: promises and challenges
Authors: Yu Jingjing , Yang Yiming , Gu Zhanjing , Shi Min , La Cava Antonio , Liu Aijing
Published: October 2024

In recent years, the use of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cells has emerged as a promising immunotherapy in multiple diseases. CAR-T cells are T cells genetically modified to express a surface receptor, known as CAR, for the targeting of cognate antigens on specific cells. The effectiveness of CAR-T cell therapy in hematologic malignancies including leukemia, myeloma, and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma has led to consider its use as a potential avenue of treatment for autoimmune diseases. However, broadening the use of CAR-T cell therapy to a large spectrum of autoimmune conditions is challenging particularly because of the possible development of side effects including cytokine release syndrome and neurotoxicity. The design of CAR therapy that include additional immune cells such as double-negative T cells, γδ T cells, T regulatory cells and natural killer cells has shown promising results in preclinical studies and clinical trials in oncology, suggesting a similar potential utility in the treatment of autoimmune diseases. This review examines the mechanisms, efficacy, and safety of CAR approaches with a focus on their use in autoimmune diseases including systemic lupus erythematosus, Sjögren’s syndrome, systemic sclerosis, multiple sclerosis, myasthenia gravis, lupus nephritis and other autoimmune diseases. Advantages and disadvantages as compared to CAR-T cell therapy will also be discussed.
KS18, a Mcl-1 inhibitor, improves the effectiveness of bortezomib and overcomes resistance in refractory multiple myeloma by triggering intrinsic apoptosis
Authors: Al-Odat Omar S. , Elbezanti Weam Othman , Gowda Krishne , Srivastava Sandeep K. , Amin Shantu G. , Jonnalagadda Subash C. , Budak-Alpdogan Tulin , Pandey Manoj K.
Published: October 2024

Despite a record number of clinical studies investigating various anti-myeloma treatments, the 5-year survival rate for multiple myeloma (MM) patients in the US is only 55%, and almost all patients relapse. Poor patient outcomes demonstrate that myeloma cells are “born to survive” which means they can adapt and evolve following treatment. Thus, new therapeutic approaches to combat survival mechanisms and target treatment resistance are required. Importantly, Mcl-1, anti-apoptotic protein, is required for the development of MM and treatment resistance. This study looks at the possibility of KS18, a selective Mcl-1 inhibitor, to treat MM and overcome resistance. Our investigation demonstrates that KS18 effectively induces cell death in MM by dual regulatory mechanisms targeting the Mcl-1 protein at both transcriptional and post-translational levels. Specifically, KS18 suppresses Mcl-1 activation via STAT-3 pathway and promotes Mcl-1 phosphorylation/ubiquitination/proteasome-dependent protein degradation (UPS). Significantly, KS18 triggered caspase-dependent apoptosis in MM patient samples and bortezomib-resistant cells, synergizing with venetoclax to boost apoptosis. KS18 promises to overcome bortezomib and venetoclax resistance and re-sensitize myeloma cells to chemotherapy. Furthermore, the study shows the tremendous impact of KS18 in inhibiting colony formation in bortezomib-resistant cells and demonstrates significant tumor shrinkage in KS18-treated NSG mice without notable toxicity signs after 4 weeks of therapy with a single acceptable dose each week, indicating its powerful anti-neoplastic and anti-resistance characteristics. This study strongly implies that KS18 may treat MM and provide new hope to patients who are experiencing recurrence or resistance.
Birds and Their Extraordinary Sense of Smell
Authors: Li Renee , Mantha Nivritti , Ojiro Ichie , Matsunami Hiroaki , Driver Robert
Published: September 2024

Smell is one of the five senses we use to experience the world. It allows humans and other animals to find their food, avoid danger, and even recognize family members. Animals detect smells with olfactory receptors, special proteins that sit on the surface of the nose cells. These interact with odor molecules (small particles that have a smell) and send signals to the brain so the animal can perceive the smell. We know mammals have hundreds of olfactory receptors and can detect tens of thousands of smells, but what about birds? For decades, many people thought that birds did not use smell in their daily lives, but recent studies have shown that birds respond to smell. We show that many birds have a large number of olfactory receptors similar to mammals, strengthening the case for smell playing an important role in the life of birds.
Precision Epidemiology: A Computational Analysis of the Impact of Algorithmic Prediction on the Relationship Between Population Epidemiology and Clinical Epidemiology
Authors: Esposito Elena , Angelini Paola , Schneider Sebastian
Published: October 2024

Objectives

Precision Medicine (PM) uses advanced Machine Learning (ML) techniques and big data to develop personalized treatments, but healthcare still relies on traditional statistical procedures not targeted on individuals. This study investigates the impact of ML on epidemiology.

Methods

A quantitative analysis of the articles in PubMed for the years 2000–2019 was conducted to investigate the use of statistical methods and ML in epidemiology. Using structural topic modelling, two groups of topics were identified and analysed over time: topics closer to the clinical side of epidemiology and topics closer to the population side.

Results

The curve of the prevalence of topics associated with population epidemiology basically corresponds to the curve of the relative statistical methods, while the more dynamic curve of clinical epidemiology broadly reproduces the trend of algorithmic methods.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that a renewed separation between clinical epidemiology and population epidemiology is emerging, with clinical epidemiology taking more advantage of recent developments in algorithmic techniques and moving closer to bioinformatics, whereas population epidemiology seems to be slower in this innovation.
Tracking and Behavior Analysis of Group-Housed Pigs Based on a Multi-Object Tracking Approach
Authors: Tu Shuqin , Du Jiaying , Liang Yun , Cao Yuefei , Chen Weidian , Xiao Deqin , Huang Qiong
Published: October 2024

Smart farming technologies to track and analyze pig behaviors in natural environments are critical for monitoring the health status and welfare of pigs. This study aimed to develop a robust multi-object tracking (MOT) approach named YOLOv8 + OC-SORT(V8-Sort) for the automatic monitoring of the different behaviors of group-housed pigs. We addressed common challenges such as variable lighting, occlusion, and clustering between pigs, which often lead to significant errors in long-term behavioral monitoring. Our approach offers a reliable solution for real-time behavior tracking, contributing to improved health and welfare management in smart farming systems. First, the YOLOv8 is employed for the real-time detection and behavior classification of pigs under variable light and occlusion scenes. Second, the OC-SORT is utilized to track each pig to reduce the impact of pigs clustering together and occlusion on tracking. And, when a target is lost during tracking, the OC-SORT can recover the lost trajectory and re-track the target. Finally, to implement the automatic long-time monitoring of behaviors for each pig, we created an automatic behavior analysis algorithm that integrates the behavioral information from detection and the tracking results from OC-SORT. On the one-minute video datasets for pig tracking, the proposed MOT method outperforms JDE, Trackformer, and TransTrack, achieving the highest HOTA, MOTA, and IDF1 scores of 82.0%, 96.3%, and 96.8%, respectively. And, it achieved scores of 69.0% for HOTA, 99.7% for MOTA, and 75.1% for IDF1 on sixty-minute video datasets. In terms of pig behavior analysis, the proposed automatic behavior analysis algorithm can record the duration of four types of behaviors for each pig in each pen based on behavior classification and ID information to represent the pigs’ health status and welfare. These results demonstrate that the proposed method exhibits excellent performance in behavior recognition and tracking, providing technical support for prompt anomaly detection and health status monitoring for pig farming managers.
Microclimatic Variability and Thermal Comfort of Spectators in an Outdoor Stadium Venue
Authors: Collins Andrew , Brown Michael , Gutter Barrett , Fuhrmann Christopher
Published: October 2024

This study examines heat exposure and its impact on the thermal comfort and health of spectators within a semi-outdoor American college football stadium in the southeastern United States. Over 50 sensors were deployed during the 2016 season from late August to late November to measure temperature and humidity across various stadium locations. Significant variations in temperature, heat index, and a modified version of the physiological equivalent temperature (mPET) were found within the stadium, with some areas exceeding National Weather Service heat alert thresholds during certain games. Moreover, mean temperatures in the stadium were higher than those measured at a nearby weather station, while the mean heat index was higher in the seating areas than in other stadium locations and at the nearby weather station. Reductions in modeled wind speed resulted in significant decreases in thermal comfort and greater physical stress among spectators, particularly when the wind was calm. Heat-related illness comprised up to two-thirds of all cases treated by first aid and emergency medical services during particularly hot games. Most of these occurred in the most thermally oppressive parts of the stadium. These results highlight the need for greater monitoring of heat exposure inside stadiums, earlier implementation of heat action plans to raise awareness and educate spectators on heat mitigation strategies, and incorporation of stadium design modifications that improve circulation, increase shade, and reduce crowding.
Comprehensive Bioinformatics Analysis Reveals the Potential Role of the hsa_circ_0001081/miR-26b-5p Axis in Regulating COL15A1 and TRIB3 within Hypoxia-Induced miRNA/mRNA Networks in Glioblastoma Cells
Authors: Lenda Bartosz , Żebrowska-Nawrocka Marta , Balcerczak Ewa
Published: October 2024

Background/Objectives: The intrinsic molecular heterogeneity of glioblastoma (GBM) is one of the main reasons for its resistance to conventional treatment. Mesenchymal GBM niches are associated with hypoxic signatures and a negative influence on patients’ prognosis. To date, competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) networks have been shown to have a broad impact on the progression of various cancers. In this study, we decided to construct hypoxia-specific microRNA/ messengerRNA (miRNA/mRNA) networks with a putative circular RNA (circRNA) regulatory component using available bioinformatics tools. Methods: For ceRNA network construction, we combined publicly available data deposited in the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and interaction pairs obtained from miRTarBase and circBank; a differential expression analysis of GBM cells was performed with limma and deseq2. For the gene ontology (GO) enrichment analysis, we utilized clusterProfiler; GBM molecular subtype analysis was performed in the Glioma Bio Discovery Portal (Glioma-BioDP). Results: We observed that miR-26b-5p, generally considered a tumor suppressor, was upregulated under hypoxic conditions in U-87 MG cells. Moreover, miR-26b-5p could potentially inhibit TRIB3, a gene associated with tumor proliferation. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) network and GO enrichment analyses identified a hypoxia-specific subcluster enriched in collagen-associated terms, with six genes highly expressed in the mesenchymal glioma group. This subcluster included hsa_circ_0001081/miR-26b-5p-affected COL15A1, a gene downregulated in hypoxic U-87 MG cells yet highly expressed in the mesenchymal GBM subtype. Conclusions: The interplay between miR-26b-5p, COL15A1, and TRIB3 suggests a complex regulatory mechanism that may influence the extracellular matrix composition and the mesenchymal transformation in GBM. However, the precise impact of the hsa_circ_0001081/miR-26b-5p axis on collagen-associated processes in hypoxia-induced GBM cells remains unclear and warrants further investigation.
The Role of mTOR in Mycobacterium tuberculosis Infection
Authors: Patel Ami , Nguyen Lannhi , Shea Christina , Singh Sunjum , Venketaraman Vishwanath
Published: October 2024

Background/Objectives: Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tb) is a pathogen that causes tuberculosis (TB), an extremely infectious disease which is responsible for millions of deaths worldwide. The severity of this pathogen is further amplified with the emergence of multidrug-resistant strains that are becoming more prevalent at an alarming rate, and novel treatments are needed. Methods: In this paper, we discuss the pathology M. tb infection. We review the literature on the role that mTOR plays in autophagy and the immune system as well as its impact on M. tb infection. Lastly, we discuss the current therapies targeting mTOR and potential routes to explore for future treatments. Results: The mTOR protein acts as a negative regulator of the autophagy pathway and presents as a potent target to establish new treatments for TB. M. tb survival is affected by mTOR, the PI3K/mTOR/AKT pathway, and autophagy. M. tb evades destruction by manipulating host cellular mechanisms, which increases resistance and complicates treatment. Conclusions: Targeting mTOR can enhance autophagy and increase M. tb clearance. Existing drugs such as everolimus, rapamycin + CC214-2, and bazedoxifene are all being currently studied for effectiveness and show positive results. Alternative therapies, including Chinese herbs, baicalin, BTLA, glutathione, and precision medicine can modulate the PI3K/mTOR/AKT pathway and the host’s immune response, resulting in increased M. tb clearance, and these may be the future treatments for M. tb infection.
Linking Microbiota Profiles to Disease Characterization in Common Variable Immunodeficiency: The Case of Granulomatous–Lymphocytic Interstitial Lung Disease
Authors: Cabanero-Navalon Marta Dafne , Carda-Diéguez Miguel , Moral Moral Pedro , Mira Alex , Balastegui-Martin Héctor , Salavert-Lletí Miguel , Garcia-Bustos Victor
Published: October 2024

Background and objectives: Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) is a primary immunodeficiency characterized by decreased immunoglobulins and recurrent infections, with non-infectious complications such as granulomatous–lymphocytic interstitial lung disease (GLILD) affecting up to 30% of patients. Methods: Using high-throughput 16S rRNA gene sequencing, salivary, sputum, and fecal microbiome from CVID patients with GLILD, comparing them to CVID patients without GLILD—with immune dysregulation (dCVID) and only infections (iCVID)—and healthy controls was analyzed. Results: A total of 41 CVID patients, 7 with GLILD, and 15 healthy donors were included. Global fecal biodiversity was significantly lower in GLILD patients compared to CVID subgroups and controls. GLILD patients harbored different specific bacterial communities in all niches, with some keystone species common to dCVID. Conchiformibius, Micrococcales, and Capnocytophaga are more frequent in the sputum of GLILD patients. Saliva in GLILD shows higher frequencies of Conchiformibius and Haemophilusparainfluenzae. Fecal samples from GLILD patients have higher levels of Gemella morbilorum, Lacticaseibacillus, and Cellulosimicrobium. A non-assigned Conchiformibius spp. is consistently associated with GLILD across different niches and could be a potential pathobiont or relevant microbiological marker for GLILD. Cluster network and correlation analyses show profound dysbiosis in the sputum, saliva, and feces of GLILD patients. Conclusions: These findings highlight significant microbiome alterations in CVID patients with GLILD, particularly in the respiratory tract, suggesting a possible link to both local and systemic immune dysregulation.
Heuristic Optimization Algorithm of Black-Winged Kite Fused with Osprey and Its Engineering Application
Authors: Zhang Zheng , Wang Xiangkun , Yue Yinggao
Published: October 2024

Swarm intelligence optimization methods have steadily gained popularity as a solution to multi-objective optimization issues in recent years. Their study has garnered a lot of attention since multi-objective optimization problems have a hard high-dimensional goal space. The black-winged kite optimization algorithm still suffers from the imbalance between global search and local development capabilities, and it is prone to local optimization even though it combines Cauchy mutation to enhance the algorithm’s optimization ability. The heuristic optimization algorithm of the black-winged kite fused with osprey (OCBKA), which initializes the population by logistic chaotic mapping and fuses the osprey optimization algorithm to improve the search performance of the algorithm, is proposed as a means of enhancing the search ability of the black-winged kite algorithm (BKA). By using numerical comparisons between the CEC2005 and CEC2021 benchmark functions, along with other swarm intelligence optimization methods and the solutions to three engineering optimization problems, the upgraded strategy’s efficacy is confirmed. Based on numerical experiment findings, the revised OCBKA is very competitive because it can handle complicated engineering optimization problems with a high convergence accuracy and quick convergence time when compared to other comparable algorithms.
A Reinforcement Learning-Based Bi-Population Nutcracker Optimizer for Global Optimization
Authors: Li Yu , Zhang Yan
Published: October 2024

The nutcracker optimizer algorithm (NOA) is a metaheuristic method proposed in recent years. This algorithm simulates the behavior of nutcrackers searching and storing food in nature to solve the optimization problem. However, the traditional NOA struggles to balance global exploration and local exploitation effectively, making it prone to getting trapped in local optima when solving complex problems. To address these shortcomings, this study proposes a reinforcement learning-based bi-population nutcracker optimizer algorithm called RLNOA. In the RLNOA, a bi-population mechanism is introduced to better balance global and local optimization capabilities. At the beginning of each iteration, the raw population is divided into an exploration sub-population and an exploitation sub-population based on the fitness value of each individual. The exploration sub-population is composed of individuals with poor fitness values. An improved foraging strategy based on random opposition-based learning is designed as the update method for the exploration sub-population to enhance diversity. Meanwhile, Q-learning serves as an adaptive selector for exploitation strategies, enabling optimal adjustment of the exploitation sub-population’s behavior across various problems. The performance of the RLNOA is evaluated using the CEC-2014, CEC-2017, and CEC-2020 benchmark function sets, and it is compared against nine state-of-the-art metaheuristic algorithms. Experimental results demonstrate the superior performance of the proposed algorithm.
Gender-Specific Prognostic Impact of Treosulfan Levels in High-Dose Chemotherapy for Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Heini Alexander D. , Kammermann Karin , Bacher Ulrike , Jeker Barbara , Hayoz Michael , Aebi Yolanda , Largiadèr Carlo R. , Nilius Henning , Pabst Thomas
Published: October 2024

Introduction: The growing body of evidence around sexual and gender dimorphism in medicine, particularly in oncology, has highlighted differences in treatment response, outcomes, and side effects between males and females. Differences in drug metabolism, distribution, and elimination, influenced by factors like body composition and enzyme expression, contribute to these variations. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed data of 112 multiple myeloma (MM) patients treated with first-line high-dose chemotherapy (HDCT) with treosulfan and melphalan (TreoMel) followed by autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) at a single academic center between January 2020 and August 2022. We assessed response rate, progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), and toxicities in relation to gender and treosulfan exposure. Results: Our analysis revealed significant gender-specific differences in treosulfan exposure. Females had higher peak levels (343.8 vs. 309.0 mg/L, p = 0.0011) and area under the curve (AUC) (869.9 vs. 830.5 mg*h/L, p = 0.0427) compared to males. Higher treosulfan exposure was associated with increased mortality in females but not in males. Females with treosulfan AUC > 900 mg*h/L had significantly shorter overall survival, while PFS was unaffected by treosulfan exposure. Conclusion: Our study demonstrates that female patients undergoing TreoMel HDCT have higher treosulfan exposure than males and that females with higher levels are at increased risk for toxicity and adverse outcomes. These data suggest that higher treosulfan doses do not confer a benefit in terms of better outcomes for females. Therefore, exploring lower treosulfan doses for female MM patients undergoing TreoMel HDCT may be warranted to mitigate toxicity and improve outcomes.
Implications of Long COVID for Society: Insights into the Physical, Social, and Financial Impacts from Patient Interviews
Authors: Gaughan Alice A. , Rush Laura J. , McAlearney Ann Scheck
Published: October 2024

Long COVID affects millions of people worldwide and has emerged as a major health consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic. While quantitative studies have helped paint a picture of ongoing symptomatology, there are very few longitudinal qualitative studies that present patients’ perspectives about the significant and persistent impact Long COVID has on their daily lives. To address this gap, we conducted semi-structured qualitative interviews with nine Long COVID patients about 15 months after we performed an initial set of interviews with those patients who were seeking care at a Long COVID specialty clinic. Most patients that we re-interviewed reported having lingering symptoms that continue to impact their lives. Many described suffering with mental health issues, particularly depression and anxiety. Others described financial stress. Most reported not yet being unable to return to their pre-COVID level of health and well-being. Our work demonstrates the ongoing need to study Long COVID and provide robust social support, mental health resources, and healthcare focused on symptom relief.
Development and Characterization of an Advanced Voltage-Controllable Capacitor Based on AlInGaN/GaN-Si (111) Epitaxy
Authors: Guan He , Shen Guiyu
Published: October 2024

The AlInGaN/GaN heterojunction epitaxy material with high cutoff frequency and saturated power density has become a very popular candidate for millimeter wave applications in next-generation mobile communication. In this study, an advanced voltage-controllable capacitor based on the AlInGaN/GaN-Si (111) epitaxy was proposed by employing a bi-directional series MIS capacitor structure. The capacitor was fabricated by using a pad area of 40 μm × 40 μm, with a 1 μm distance between the positive and negative electrodes. The test results show that the capacitance is turned on with a saturation capacitance density and a maximum leakage current density of 0.30 fF/μm2 of 0.37 pA/μm2, respectively, for the control voltage from −6.5 V to 6 V. In particular, in the proposed design method, the saturation capacitance required for the practical application can be obtained by simply adjusting the capacitance area. The capacitor showcases characteristics of rapid turn-on and turn-off responses coupled with low loss, underscoring its promising prospects for deployment in RF switching applications.
Optimization of Joining Parameters in Pulsed Tungsten Inert Gas Weld Brazing of Aluminum and Stainless Steel Based on Response Surface Methodology
Authors: He Huan , Tian Xu , Yi Xiaoyang , Wang Pu , Guo Zhiwen , Fu Ao , Zhao Wenzhen
Published: October 2024

Combining aluminum and steel offers a promising solution for reducing structural weight and fuel consumption across various industries. Pulse in tungsten inert gas (TIG) weld brazing effectively suppresses interfacial brittle intermetallics and enhances joint strength by influencing pool stirring and heat input during aluminum-to-steel joining. However, optimizing the pulsed TIG weld brazing process is challenging due to its numerous welding parameters. This study established statistical models for Al/steel joint strength without reinforcement using response surface methodology (RSM) based on central composite design (CCD). The models’ adequacy and significance were verified through analysis of variance (ANOVA). The four welding parameters influence weld strength in the following descending order: pulse on time > base current > pulse current > pulse frequency. Additionally, interactions between pulse current and pulse frequency, and between pulse on time and base current, were observed. Numerical optimization using RSM determined the optimal pulsed GTA weld brazing parameters for aluminum and stainless steel. With these optimized parameters, the joint strength reached 155.73 MPa, and the intermetallic compound (IMC) thickness was reduced to 3.4 μm.