bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the influence of thought on language: a naturalistic framework for the pantomimic origins of human communication
Authors: Ferretti Francesco
Published: May 2023

This paper focuses on the idea that pantomime is a privileged lens for investigating the origin of language in a naturalistic framework. Two reasons support this claim. The first one concerns the motivated and iconic character of pantomime compared to the arbitrary and abstract features of linguistic signs emphasized by the conventionalist thesis. The second reason is that a pantomimic account of language origin paves the way for a rethinking of the traditional hypothesis on the relationship between thought and language. Specifically, it leads to a revision of the thesis of the unidirectional influence of language on thought in favor of a bidirectional influence. Indeed, looking at the relationship between thought and language in its nascent stage means investigating the role of thought in shaping language rather than the role of language in shaping thought. A bidirectional perspective of this type hinges on the twofold idea that thought has primarily a narrative foundation and that pantomime represents an ideal expressive means for bootstrapping the evolutionary foundations of language origins in a naturalistic framework.
A latent profile analysis of sleep disturbance in relation to mental health among college students in China
Authors: Chen Chunping , He Zigeng , Xu Bingna , Shao Jianyao , Wang Dongfang
Published: May 2023

Aims

This study aimed to examine the subtype classification characteristics of sleep disturbance (SD) in college students and their associations with sample characteristic factors and mental health outcomes.

Methods

The sample comprised 4,302 college students (Mean age = 19.92 ± 1.42 years, 58.6% females). The Youth Self-Rating Insomnia Scale, Beck Depression Inventory, 8-item Positive Subscale of the Community Assessment of Psychic Experiences, and 10-item Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale were used to assess adolescents’ sleep disturbance, depressive symptoms, psychotic-like experiences (PLEs), and resilience. Latent profile analysis, logistic regression, and liner regression analysis were used to analyze the data.

Results

Three subtypes of SD in college students were identified: the high SD profile (10.6%), the mild SD profile (37.5%), and the no SD profile (51.9%). Compared with college students in the “no SD” profile, risk factors for “high SD” include being male and poor parental marital status. Sophomores were found to predict the “high SD” profile or “mild SD” profile relative to the “no SD” profile. College students in the “mild SD” profile or “high SD” profile were more likely to have a higher level of depressive symptoms and PLEs, while a lower level of resilience.

Conclusion

The findings highlighted that target intervention is urgently needed for male college students, sophomores, and those with poor parental marital status in the “mild SD” profile or “high SD” profile.
Risk factors for SARS-CoV-2 infection among health workers in India: a case control study
Authors: George Leyanna Susan , Tomy Chitra , Retnakumar Charutha , Narlawar Uday , Bhardwaj Pankaj , Krishnan Jayasree , Rao R. L. Lakshman , Patel Prakash , Bilimale Anil S. , Baby Poornima , Mathew Minu Maria , Cassini Alessandro , Simniceanu Alice , Yin Mo , Allegranzi Benedetta , Ahmad Mohammed , Rahman Anisur , Mohiuddin Syed Ahmed , Thakre Sushama , Bhansali Suman Suman , Vohra Rajaat , Krishnan Hari , Logaraj M. , Maheriya Vaishali , Gharat Vaibhav , Dipu T. S. , Solomon Hilda , Sharma Sarita , Shwethashree M. , Hegde Rahul , Ansari Mohammad Waseem Faraz , Misra Sanjeev
Published: May 2023

Background

COVID-19 was declared as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern on 30th January 2020. Compared to the general population, healthcare workers and their families have been identified to be at a higher risk of getting infected with COVID-19. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the risk factors responsible for the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 infection among health workers in different hospital settings and to describe the range of clinical presentations of SARS-CoV-2 infection among them.

Methodology

A nested case–control study was conducted among healthcare workers who were involved in the care of COVID-19 cases for assessing the risk factors associated with it. To get a holistic perspective, the study was conducted in 19 different hospitals from across 7 states (Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Rajasthan) of India covering the major government and private hospitals that were actively involved in COVID-19 patient care. The study participants who were not vaccinated were enrolled using the incidence density sampling technique from December 2020 to December 2021.

Results

A total of 973 health workers consisting of 345 cases and 628 controls were recruited for the study. The mean age of the participants was observed to be 31.17 ± 8.5 years, with 56.3% of them being females. On multivariate analysis, the factors that were found to be significantly associated with SARS-CoV-2 were age of more than 31 years (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.407 [95% CI 1.53–1.880]; p = 0.021), male gender (aOR 1.342 [95% CI 1.019–1.768]; p = 0.036), practical mode of IPC training on personal protective equipment (aOR 1. 1.935 [95% CI 1.148–3.260]; p = 0.013), direct exposure to COVID-19 patient (aOR 1.413 [95% CI 1.006–1.985]; p = 0.046), presence of diabetes mellitus (aOR 2.895 [95% CI 1.079–7.770]; p = 0.035) and those received prophylactic treatment for COVID-19 in the last 14 days (aOR 1.866 [95% CI 0.201–2.901]; p = 0.006).

Conclusion

The study was able to highlight the need for having a separate hospital infection control department that implements IPC programs regularly. The study also emphasizes the need for developing policies that address the occupational hazards faced by health workers.
Network intelligence vs. jamming in underwater networks: how learning can cope with misbehavior
Authors: Mertens J. S. , Panebianco A. , Surudhi A. , Prabagarane N. , Galluccio L.
Published: May 2023

In this paper, we present a machine-learning technique to counteract jamming attacks in underwater networks. Indeed, this is relevant in security applications where sensor devices are located in critical regions, for example, in the case of national border surveillance or for identifying any unauthorized intrusion. To this aim, a multi-hop routing protocol that relies on the exploitation of a Q-learning methodology is presented with a focus on increasing reliability in data communication and network lifetime. Performance results assess the effectiveness of the proposed solution as compared to other efficient state-of-the-art approaches.
Barriers and facilitators to cognitive impairment screening among older adults with diabetes mellitus and hypertension by primary healthcare providers in rural Uganda
Authors: Muwanguzi Moses , Obua Celestino , Maling Samuel , Wong Wilson , Owokuhaisa Judith , Wakida Edith K.
Published: May 2023

Background

The burden of non-communicable diseases and cognitive impairment exhibit a linear rise in sub-Saharan Africa due to the increase in life expectancy. Non-communicable diseases like diabetes mellitus and hypertension increase the risk for cognitive impairment. To improve our understanding of the underpinnings of the cognitive impairment screening, this study explored the barriers and facilitators of routine cognitive impairment screening in a primary healthcare setting guided by the Capacity, Opportunity, Motivation Behavioral change (COM-B) model.

Methods

This was a descriptive qualitative study with primary healthcare providers who provide care to older adults with diabetes mellitus and hypertension at three primary healthcare centers in Mbarara district southwestern Uganda. In-depth interviews were conducted using a semi structured interview guide. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using the framework approach along the COM-B components. Each COM-B component factors were categorized as barriers and facilitators.

Results

We conducted 20 in-depth interviews with clinical officers, enrolled nurses, and a psychiatric nurse. The questions were guided by the Capacity, Opportunity and Motivation Behavioral change (COM-B) framework to identify barriers and facilitators to cognitive impairment screening. The factors that negatively affected the screening were considered as barriers, while the positive as facilitators. Capacity related barriers to cognitive impairment screening included chronic understaffing, primary healthcare provider non-involvement, lack of training/skills, lack of knowledge and awareness in screening, absence of caretakers, lack of patient awareness of cognitive problems; while facilitators were staff recruitment, primary healthcare provider involvement, and specialized training. Opportunity related barriers to screening included patient overload, infrastructure shortage, and time constraints. Motivation related barriers included lack of screening guidance and policy, while the facilitators were availability of mentorship programs for primary healthcare providers.

Conclusions

Integrating cognitive impairment screening in primary health care requires engagement of relevant stakeholders with the focus on addressing implementation challenges through capacity development. Timely cognitive impairment screening at the first point of care initiates a cascade of interventions for timely enrollment into care, thus arresting the progress of cognitive impairment that leads to dementia.
AAV9-mediated gene delivery to liver grafts during static cold storage in a rat liver transplant model
Authors: Gao Qimeng , Kesseli Samuel J. , Gonzalez Trevor , Zhang Min , Kahan Riley , Krischak Madison , Halpern Samantha E. , Song Mingqing , Xu Hongzhi , Abraham Nader , Anwar Imran J. , Alderete Isaac , Asokan Aravind , Hartwig Matthew G. , Barbas Andrew S.
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) is a novel strategy used clinically for gene delivery, but has not been characterized in the context of organ transplantation. We sought to determine the efficacy of rAAV-mediated gene delivery during static cold storage (SCS) prior to liver transplantation.

Methods

A triple-plasmid transfection protocol was used to produce rAAV subtype-9 vectors containing firefly luciferase genomes in HEK293 cells. Lewis rat liver grafts were flushed and stored in cold HTK solution. Three experimental groups received rAAV at different doses, administered via the portal vein as a bolus during SCS. A control group did not receive rAAV (N = 2). Recipients then underwent syngeneic liver transplantation. Bioluminescence imaging to quantify in vivo luciferase expression was performed on post-operative days 7, 14, 28, and 56.

Results

Control animals demonstrated no bioluminescent activity, while animals receiving rAAV-treated livers had increasing bioluminescence, peaking at four weeks but sustained to the eight-week endpoint. This result was confirmed by experimental endpoint tissue luciferase activity assay.

Discussion

rAAV mediates gene transduction in liver grafts when administered during SCS and has potential for gene therapy applications in solid organ transplantation.
Place Cells: The Brain Cells That Help us Navigate the World
Authors: O’Keefe John
Published: May 2023

Navigation through the space around us is one of the most fundamental and crucial abilities that humans and other animals have. This ability is so natural that we usually do it easily, without even thinking about it. Though finding our way through our environments seems effortless, it actually requires a complex, fascinating mechanism—the navigation system in the brain. In this article, we will explore a major group of cells that are part of this navigation system, called place cells. As you read, you will discover how the trait of curiosity helps the brain’s navigation system, and you will learn some important lessons from taxi drivers in London!
The Economy: Much More Than Money
Authors: Deaton Angus
Published: May 2023

The economy is what keeps the world as we know it functioning. Our daily lives are heavily affected by the economy, both locally and globally. Some people think that the economy is mostly concerned with money, but in fact it is much broader than money. The economy relates to very fundamental issues concerning human life, such as human wellbeing and equality between people and groups. In this article, I will give you a taste of the ways in which economists view human wellbeing. I will then explain why, when we study the economy, it is not enough to look only at individuals or at groups of people—we need to do both. Finally, we will discuss the future of the economy, and I will share some tips that I have learned during my scientific career.
The human functioning revolution: implications for health systems and sciences
Authors: Bickenbach Jerome , Rubinelli Sara , Baffone Cristiana , Stucki Gerold
Published: May 2023

The World Health Organization (WHO) concept of human functioning represents a new way of thinking about health that has wide-ranging consequences. This article explicates this paradigm shift, illustrates its potential impact, and argues that societies can profit by implementing functioning as the third indicator of health, complementing morbidity and mortality. Human functioning integrates biological health (the bodily functions and structures that constitute a person’s intrinsic health capacity) and lived health (a person’s actual performance of activities in interaction with their environment). It is key to valuing health both in relation to individual well-being and societal welfare—operationalizing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3 principle that health is a public good. Implementing functioning as defined and conceptualized in the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) could profoundly benefit practices, research, education, and policy across health systems and health strategies and help integrate health and social systems. It also offers a foundation for reconceptualizing multidisciplinary health sciences and for augmenting epidemiology with information derived from peoples’ lived experiences of health. A new interdisciplinary science field—human functioning sciences—itself holds the promise to integrate research inputs and methods from diverse biomedical and social disciplines to provide a more comprehensive understanding of human health. To realize these opportunities, we must address formidable methodological, implementation, and communication challenges throughout health systems and broader society. This endeavor is vital to orientate health systems toward what matters most to people about health, to unlock the societal economic investment in health that is essential for individual and population-level well-being, and to drive progress toward achieving the SDGs.
Acute exercise induces distinct quantitative and phenotypical T cell profiles in men with prostate cancer
Authors: Hanson Erik D. , Sakkal Samy , Bates-Fraser Lauren C. , Que Shadney , Cho Eunhan , Spielmann Guillaume , Kadife Elif , Violet John A. , Battaglini Claudio L. , Stoner Lee , Bartlett David B. , McConell Glenn K. , Hayes Alan
Published: May 2023

Background

Reduced testosterone levels can influence immune system function, particularly T cells. Exercise during cancer reduces treatment-related side effects and provide a stimulus to mobilize and redistribute immune cells. However, it is unclear how conventional and unconventional T cells (UTC) respond to acute exercise in prostate cancer survivors compared to healthy controls.

Methods

Age-matched prostate cancer survivors on androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) and those without ADT (PCa) along with non-cancer controls (CON) completed ∼45 min of intermittent cycling with 3 min at 60% of peak power interspersed by 1.5 min of rest. Fresh, unstimulated immune cell populations and intracellular perforin were assessed before (baseline), immediately following (0 h), 2 h, and 24 h post-exercise.

Results

At 0 h, conventional T cell counts increased by 45%–64% with no differences between groups. T cell frequency decreased by −3.5% for CD3+ and −4.5% for CD4+ cells relative to base at 0 h with CD8+ cells experiencing a delayed decrease of −4.5% at 2 h with no group differences. Compared to CON, the frequency of CD8+CD57+ cells was −18.1% lower in ADT. Despite a potential decrease in maturity, ADT increased CD8+perforin+ GMFI. CD3+Vα7.2+CD161+ counts, but not frequencies, increased by 69% post-exercise while CD3+CD56+ cell counts increased by 127% and were preferentially mobilized (+1.7%) immediately following the acute cycling bout. There were no UTC group differences. Cell counts and frequencies returned to baseline by 24 h.

Conclusion

Following acute exercise, prostate cancer survivors demonstrate normal T cell and UTC responses that were comparable to CON. Independent of exercise, ADT is associated with lower CD8+ cell maturity (CD57) and perforin frequency that suggests a less mature phenotype. However, higher perforin GMFI may attenuate these changes, with the functional implications of this yet to be determined.
Consumer willingness to pay a premium for orange-fleshed sweet potato puree products: a gender-responsive evidence from Becker–DeGroot–Marschak experimental auction among low- and middle-income consumers in selected regions of Nairobi, Kenya
Authors: Wangithi Charity M. , Nyangaresi Annette M. , Srinivasulu Rajendran , Moyo Mukani , Muzhingi Tawanda , Kawarazuka Nozomi
Published: May 2023

Vitamin A deficiency (VAD) is a major public health problem affecting people of all ages, particularly women of reproductive age and young children in the Global South. Nutrient-enriched (biofortified) orange-fleshed sweet potato (OFSP) has promising potential as a sustainable food vehicle to combat VAD. Part of ongoing efforts to combat VAD, particularly among the urban poor populations, include the introduction of innovative OFSP puree, which is utilized as a functional and substitute ingredient in widely consumed baked and fried products. In Kenya, the OFSP puree is used to make commercial products that are affordable by low- and middle-income households. However, there is limited knowledge of consumer awareness, willingness to pay (WTP), and/or how gender plays a role in the uptake of these products. Following a multistage sampling technique, this study employs the Becker–DeGroot–Marschak (BDM) experimental auction method to assess if men and women consumers—from selected, highly populated low- and middle-income areas of Nairobi County in Kenya—are aware and if they would be willing to pay for OFSP puree products. Integrating gender considerations, we use three of the most widely consumed OFSP puree products, bread, buns, and chapati, and three treatment categories, naive, nutritional information, and OFSP puree substitute products' references prices to deduce the WTP for OFSP puree products among men and women. Results showed limited awareness of OFSP and OFSP puree products among men and women. However, both men and women were willing to pay a premium for the OFSP puree products. The intergender comparison showed that women were more willing to pay a premium for the OFSP puree products than men. Gender, age, education, knowledge of OFSP puree products, income category, availability of nutritional information, and reference pricing stand out as significant determinants of WTP.
Measures to Contain the Transmission of Hepatitis C in a Chronic Kidney Care Hospital Unit in the Triângulo Mineiro in Brazil: A Case Study
Authors: Gomide Geisa Perez Medina , Pereira Lívia Helena de Morais , Camargo Fernanda Carolina , Rodrigues Lara Maximiano , Souza Regiane da Silva , Melo Isadora Vieira de , Pereira Thayná Andreza Ribeiro , Oliveira Cristina da Cunha Hueb Barata de
Published: May 2023

Objectives: Hepatitis C virus elimination is complex. The objective was to analyze measures to eliminate virus transmission in a hemodialysis unit.

Methods: Case study composed of multiple units of analysis. The scenario is the hemodialysis unit of a Brazilian public hospital. Population composed of health service records. Descriptive analyzes were performed and the beginning of the event was considered as the moment of increased incidence of HCV. The intentional and purposeful collection of information for understanding the event and implementing interventions.

Results: The subunits of analysis were related to: clinical-epidemiological profile, active search, transmission routes, management protocol and results achieved. In August 2019, out of 45 patients, six were reactive for anti-HCV. All received treatment. Patients had exposure to contaminated medical equipment, objects or hands of professionals. Preventive measures were adopted and routine techniques were corrected. Situational Analysis Committee guided the management of the event. No new cases were detected.

Conclusions: Strategies for the microelimination of the C virus in a dialysis environment are demonstrated and it shows the multidisciplinary efforts in conducting the event.
Potential predictors for CDX2 expression loss and mismatch repair deficiency in colorectal cancer
Authors: Vlahović Ivan , Rajc Jasmina , Švagelj Ivan , Šolić Krešimir , Švagelj Dražen
Published: May 2023

CDX2 expression loss is commonly associated with mismatch repair deficiency (dMMR) in colorectal cancer (CRC). However, there are only a few studies that have attempted to correlate CDX2 expression loss with specific MMR genes (MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, PMS2). This is a retrospective study of 327 patients who underwent surgery due to CRC. Nine patients (2.9%) had two synchronous CRCs, making the total sample 336 CRC. Histopathological data such as tumor type, tumor grade, perineural, lymphatic, and vascular invasion, pT stage, pN stage, peritumoral and intratumoral lymphocytic infiltration were collected and recorded in the database. After immunohistochemical analysis, CDX2 expression, MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, and PMS2 deficiency were also recorded. CDX2 expression loss was detected in 19 out of 336 CRCs (5.9%) and was associated with ascending colon CRC, partially mucinous adenocarcinoma, poorly differentiated carcinoma, and dMMR. Forty-four (13.1%) of CRCs were dMMR. We found a statistically significant association between CDX2 expression loss and MLH1 and PMS2 deficiency. Considering that most expression phenotypes include pairs of MMR genes, we analyzed MLH1/PMS2 and MSH2/MSH6 as heterodimers. Analysis of heterodimers showed a similar result, namely, that MLH1/PMS2 heterodimer deficiency was significantly associated with CDX2 expression loss. We also constructed a regression model for CDX2 expression loss and for dMMR. Poor tumor differentiation and MLH1/PMS2 heterodimer deficiency have been identified as potential predictors for CDX2 expression loss. CRC in the ascending colon and CDX2 expression loss have been identified as positive potential predictors of dMMR with rectal cancer as negative potential predictor of dMMR. Our study showed a significant association between CDX2 expression loss and MLH1 and PMS2 deficiency in CRC. We also managed to produce a regression model for CDX2 expression and showed that poor tumor differentiation and MLH1/PMS2 heterodimer deficiency are independent factors for CDX2 expression loss. We were the first to include CDX2 expression in a regression model for dMMR and showed that CDX2 expression loss can be used as a predictive factor for dMMR, which should be confirmed by further studies.
An Interactive Differential Evolution Algorithm Based on Backtracking Strategy Applied in Interior Layout Design
Authors: Yu Fei , Liang Bang , Tang Bo , Wu Hongrun
Published: May 2023

The Interior layout model is to optimize the arrangement position of each room to maximize the comfort and quality of life of residents. Due to the complexity of the Interior layout problem, the computation of fitness function costs lots of time. To reduce the high computational cost while maintaining the solution performance. An interactive differential evolution algorithm based on Backtracking operator (IDE-BO) is proposed as the solver of the Interior layout model. The human-computer interaction mechanism of IDE benefits the automatic adjustment of fitness parameters that best meet the user’s subjective preferences to achieve the optimal solution. At the same time, the backtracking strategy can also help jump out when the algorithm falls into local optimization. The IDE is compared to other two conventional optimization methods based on two different layout scenarios. The experimental results show that in interior layout model IDE-BO is better than conventional interactive genetic algorithm (IGA) and IDE which do not use BO strategy, the super-performance of IDE-BO in complex situations in terms of execution time and convergence rate.
Theoretical and Experimental Verification of Organic Granular Fertilizer Spreading
Authors: Bivainis Vaidas , Jotautienė Eglė , Lekavičienė Kristina , Mieldažys Ramūnas , Juodišius Gražvydas
Published: May 2023

Due to the continuous creation of organic granular fertilizers of the new composition, there is a lack of knowledge about their properties and the influence of the norm on spreading efficiency. To increase the efficiency of the use of granular organic fertilizers, their spreading aims are to properly choose the most rational spreading parameters and fertilizer norms, considering the characteristics of the fertilizer. To determine this quickly and with lower costs, various theoretical models and computer programs are used to study the dynamics of fertilizer spreading. The purpose of this work was to perform theoretical and experimental comparative studies of the influence of the characteristics and dosage norms of granular fertilizers of poultry manure on the spreading efficiency. During the research, the physical properties of granular poultry manure fertilizers were determined, which have an impact on the quality of spreading. Experimental studies of fertilizer spreading were carried out using two centrifugal spreaders with the same parameters (Amazone ZA-M-1001 (spreading dosage norm, 200 kg ha−1 and 400 kg ha−1; driving speed, 10 km h−1) and ZA-M-1201 (spreading dosage norm, 600 kg ha−1, 800 kg ha−1, and 1000 kg ha−1; driving speed, 5 km h−1)). Before the fertilizer was spread, measurements were made of the flow rate of the spreadable fertilizer through one bunker shutter. Fertilizer application simulations were performed using the discrete element simulation program EDEM. Research has shown that spreading the studied granular fertilizers at the dosage norm of 600 and 800 kg ha−1 allows for the future expansion of the limits of spreading research using a spreading simulation. The most important directions of research would be the research of the spreader vanes’ shape, length, and rational settings positions, using the standard commonly used centrifugal spreader, after making small modifications of the spreader, to achieve that the spreader could spread larger norms of fertilizer or drive faster during spreading.
Establishing a Prediction Model for Tea Leaf Moisture Content Using the Free-Space Method’s Measured Scattering Coefficient
Authors: Yin Hang , Ma Fangyan , Wang Dongwei , He Xiaoning , Yin Yuanyuan , Song Chao , Zhao Liqing
Published: May 2023

The rapid and nondestructive detection of tea leaf moisture content (MC) is of great significance to processing tea with an automatic assembly line. This study proposes an MC detection method based on microwave scattering parameters (SPs). Through the established free-space electromagnetic measurement device, 901 different frequency points are taken between 2.45 and 6 GHz using a vector network analyzer (VNA). The SPs of tea leaves with different moisture contents (5.72–55.26%) at different bulk density and different sample thicknesses were measured. The relationship between frequency, S21 amplitude and moisture content, thickness, and bulk density of tea was analyzed using correlation coefficients, significance analysis, and model construction. Back propagation (BP) neural network, decision tree (DT), and random forest (RF) MC prediction models were established with the frequency, amplitude, and phase of the SPs, thickness, and bulk density of the samples as inputs. The results showed that the RF-based model had the best performance, with determination coefficient (R2) = 0.998, mean absolute error (MAE) = 0.242, and root mean square error (RMSE) = 0.614. Compared to other nondestructive testing processes for tea, this method is simpler and more accurate. This study provides a new method for the detection of tea MC, which may have potential applications in tea processing.
Phenotypic and Genotypic Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing of Chlamydia trachomatis Isolates from Patients with Persistent or Clinical Treatment Failure in Spain
Authors: Villa Laura , Boga José Antonio , Otero Luis , Vazquez Fernando , Milagro Ana , Salmerón Paula , Vall-Mayans Martí , Maciá María Dolores , Bernal Samuel , Piñeiro Luis
Published: May 2023

The aim of this multicentre project (seven hospitals across the Spanish National Health Service) was to study the phenotypic and genotypic susceptibility of C. trachomatis to the main antimicrobials used (macrolides, doxycycline, and quinolones) in isolates from patients with clinical treatment failure in whom reinfection had been ruled out. During 2018–2019, 73 clinical isolates were selected. Sixty-nine clinical specimens were inoculated onto confluent McCoy cell monolayers for phenotypic susceptibility testing. The minimum inhibitory concentration for azithromycin and doxycycline was defined as the lowest concentration associated with an at least 95% reduction in inclusion-forming units after one passage in the presence of the antibiotic compared to the initial inoculum for each strain (control). Sequencing analysis was performed for the genotypic detection of resistance to macrolides, analysing mutations in the 23S rRNA gene (at positions 2057, 2058, 2059, and 2611), and quinolones, analysing a fragment of the gyrA gene, and searching for the G248T mutation (Ser83->Ile). For tetracyclines, in-house RT-PCR was used to test for the tet(C) gene. The phenotypic susceptibility testing was successful for 10 isolates. All the isolates had minimum inhibitory concentrations for azithromycin ≤ 0.125 mg/L and for doxycycline ≤ 0.064 mg/L and were considered sensitive. Of the 73 strains studied, no mutations were found at positions T2611C or G248T of the gyrA gene. We successfully sequenced 66 isolates. No macrolide resistance-associated mutations were found at positions 2057, 2058, 2059, or T2611C. None of the isolates carried the tet(C) gene. We found no evidence for genomic resistance in this large, clinically relevant dataset.
LMIs-Based LPV Control of Quadrotor with Time-Varying Payload
Authors: Saeed Azmat , Bhatti Aamer I. , Malik Fahad M.
Published: May 2023

Applications of a quadrotor with payload, particularly for chemical spraying, have increased in recent times. The variation in payload mass over time causes a change in the moments of inertia (MOI). Moreover, large tilt angles are required for fast reference tracking and external disturbance rejection. These variations in plant parameters (i.e., mass and inertia) and large tilt angles can degrade the control scheme’s performance and stability. This article proposes a linear matrix inequalities (LMIs)-based linear parameter varying (LPV) control scheme for a quadrotor subject to time-varying mass, time-varying inertia, mass flow rate, and large tilt angles. The control strategy is designed by solving LMIs derived from quadratic H∞ performance and D-stability. The robust stability and quadratic H∞ performance are assessed by LMIs. The efficacy of the proposed methodology is established using numerical simulations, and its performance is compared to the linear time-invariant (LTI) H∞ design with pole placement constraints. The results obtained show that the LPV control scheme gives better tracking performance in the presence of time-varying parameters, noise, and external disturbances without actuator saturation. In comparison to the LTI design technique, the proposed LPV scheme improves the rise time (tr), settling time (ts), and mean squared error (MSE) by up to 14%, 15%, and 30%, respectively. Moreover, smooth transitions are observed in the tilt angles and control signals with the LPV scheme, contrary to the LTI controller, which exhibits significant oscillations.
Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastics Based on an Epoxy Binder with the Effect of Thermally Induced Self-Repair
Authors: Petrova Tuyara V. , Tretyakov Ilya V. , Kireynov Aleksey V. , Platonova Elena O. , Ponomareva Polina F. , Alexeeva Olga V. , Solodilov Vitaliy I. , Yurkov Gleb Yu. , Berlin Alexander Al.
Published: May 2023

The authors have proposed the novel approach for evaluation of the self-healing effect in carbon fiber reinforced plastics (CFRP) on micro- and macro samples, using the dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) and the double-cantilever beam delamination methods, respectively. A modified epoxy resin with a self-healing effect was used as the matrix for carbon plastics. The flexural modulus E’ of microsamples with delamination and the specific delamination energy (crack resistance) GIR of macrosamples with a given initial crack were chosen as criteria for evaluating the self-healing of carbon plastics. The sensitivity of the E’ and GIR parameters to the applied initial crack is shown. The value of the elastic modulus E’ with the initial crack can be reduced up to two times compared to the E’ values for the control materials, depending on the length of the initial crack. The degree of recovery of E’ for CFRP with a microcrack varies from 91 to 118%. A high degree of healing could be achieved in 48 h. The GIR value of CFRP samples with a given macroseparation after heat treatment is 7% of the initial GIR value (0.7 kJ/m2). Recovery of delaminations for microsamples is more efficient than for macrosamples. The study of CFRP cracks by X-ray tomography before and after self-healing showed that the crack “overgrows” during the heat treatment cycle, and the defects (pores) formed during the manufacture of the sample decrease in size.
Low Carbon Optimization of Deep Foundation Pit Support in Undulating Strata
Authors: Liu Yun , Lai Jie , Wang Wei , Wu Xiong , Xu Jiangbo , Xie Haodong , Zhang Zixuan
Published: May 2023

To mitigate carbon emissions during the construction of deep foundation pit support in undulating strata, a theoretical calculation approach was utilized to design and compute the foundation pit support for Qingdao’s Metro Line 4. On this basis, the numerical simulation method is used to optimize the design scheme of foundation pit support with the surface deformation and the stress of the support structure. The results of numerical simulation show that the final ground settlement is 5.26 mm, the maximum horizontal displacement is 0.2836 mm, and the corresponding maximum shear force of the retaining pile is 250 kN, which is obviously superior to the ground settlement of 55 mm, 33 mm, and 1341.03 kN in the theoretical design. The use of simulation software before the construction and support of deep foundation pit excavation can reduce resource waste and achieve low-carbon design while ensuring construction safety.
Special Issue: Real, Complex and Hypercomplex Number Systems in Data Processing and Representation
Authors: Cariow Aleksandr , Finko Oleg
Published: May 2023

The evolution of human society is inevitably associated with the widespread development of computer technologies and methods, and the constant evolution of the theory and practice of data processing, as well as the need to solve increasingly complex problems in computational intelligence, have inspired the use of complex and advanced mathematical methods and formalisms for representing and processing big data sets [...]
Special Issue on Power Converters: Modelling, Control, and Applications
Authors: Rymarski Zbigniew , Davari Pooya , Kaczmarczyk Zbigniew
Published: May 2023

It is very important to utilize the available sources of energy efficiently using power electronics devices and to increase the share of renewable energy sources [...]
A Novel Neural Network with the Ability to Express the Extreme Points Distribution Features of Higher Derivatives of Physical Processes
Authors: Wang Xibo , Ma Feiyan , Gao Yanfei , Liang Jinfeng , Zhou Changfeng
Published: May 2023

Higher derivatives are important to interpret the physical process. However, higher derivatives calculated from measured data often deviate from the real ones because of measurement errors. A novel method for data fitting without higher derivatives violating the real physical process is developed in this paper. Firstly, the research on errors’ influence on higher derivatives and the typical functions’ extreme points distribution were conducted, which demonstrates the necessity and feasibility of adopting extreme points distribution features in neural networks. Then, we proposed a new neural network considering the extreme points distribution features, namely, the extreme-points-distribution-based neural network (EDNN), which contains a sample error calculator (SEC) and extreme points distribution error calculator (EDEC). With recursive automatic differentiation, a model calculating the higher derivatives of the EDNN was established. Additionally, a loss function, embedded with the extreme points distribution features, was introduced. Finally, the EDNN was applied to two specific cases to reduce the noise in a second-order damped free oscillation signal and an internal combustion engine cylinder pressure trace signal. It was found that the EDNN could obtain higher derivatives that are more compatible with physical trends without detailed differentiation equations. The standard deviation of derivatives’ error of the EDNN is less than 62.5 percent of that of traditional neural networks. The EDNN provides a novel method for the analysis of physical processes with higher derivatives compatible with real physical trends.
Performing Feces in Contemporary Video and Performance Art in Israel
Authors: Gal Nissim
Published: May 2023

In its political ideology, large sectors of Israeli society hold the belief that only people who share its ethnocratic values can share the same hygiene identity with it, reflecting its self-perception as a pure national subject. This is the context in which scatological works based on radical materialism and ethical critique first appeared in Israeli performance and video art at the turn of the twenty-first century. The artworks under discussion seek to consider humankind as machines that produce waste, with an emphasis on the excess waste that separates those who are excluded from the dominant Israeli-nationalist-Zionist view or discourse. Some artists employ excrement as a tool to degrade power structures, while others see it as a source of creativity and an alternative way of material and ethical life. Performing feces, or being shit, constitutes a position of creation, observation, and being to which we should pay particular attention at this moment in time.
Chaos Controllability in Non-Identical Complex Fractional Order Chaotic Systems via Active Complex Synchronization Technique
Authors: Sajid Mohammad , Chaudhary Harindri , Kaushik Santosh
Published: May 2023

In this paper, we primarily investigate the methodology for the hybrid complex projective synchronization (HCPS) scheme in non-identical complex fractional order chaotic systems via an active complex synchronization technique (ACST). Appropriate controllers of a nonlinear type are designed in view of master–slave composition and Lyapunov’s stability criterion (LSC). The HCPS is an extended version of the previously designed projective synchronization scheme. In the HCPS scheme, by using a complex scale matrix, the system taken as slave system is asymptotically synchronized with another system taken as the master system. By utilizing a complex scale matrix, the unpredictability and security of communication are increased along with image encryption. An efficient computational method has been employed to validate and visualize the HCPS method’s efficacy by performing numerical simulation outcomes in MATLAB (version 2021).
Hybrid Modeling of Lithium-Ion Battery: Physics-Informed Neural Network for Battery State Estimation
Authors: Singh Soumya , Ebongue Yvonne Eboumbou , Rezaei Shahed , Birke Kai Peter
Published: May 2023

Accurate forecasting of the lifetime and degradation mechanisms of lithium-ion batteries is crucial for their optimization, management, and safety while preventing latent failures. However, the typical state estimations are challenging due to complex and dynamic cell parameters and wide variations in usage conditions. Physics-based models need a tradeoff between accuracy and complexity due to vast parameter requirements, while machine-learning models require large training datasets and may fail when generalized to unseen scenarios. To address this issue, this paper aims to integrate the physics-based battery model and the machine learning model to leverage their respective strengths. This is achieved by applying the deep learning framework called physics-informed neural networks (PINN) to electrochemical battery modeling. The state of charge and state of health of lithium-ion cells are predicted by integrating the partial differential equation of Fick’s law of diffusion from a single particle model into the neural network training process. The results indicate that PINN can estimate the state of charge with a root mean square error in the range of 0.014% to 0.2%, while the state of health has a range of 1.1% to 2.3%, even with limited training data. Compared to conventional approaches, PINN is less complex while still incorporating the laws of physics into the training process, resulting in adequate predictions, even for unseen situations.
Breaking Barriers: Unveiling Factors Influencing the Adoption of Artificial Intelligence by Healthcare Providers
Authors: Hameed BM Zeeshan , Naik Nithesh , Ibrahim Sufyan , Tatkar Nisha S. , Shah Milap J. , Prasad Dharini , Hegde Prithvi , Chlosta Piotr , Rai Bhavan Prasad , Somani Bhaskar K
Published: May 2023

Artificial intelligence (AI) is an emerging technological system that provides a platform to manage and analyze data by emulating human cognitive functions with greater accuracy, revolutionizing patient care and introducing a paradigm shift to the healthcare industry. The purpose of this study is to identify the underlying factors that affect the adoption of artificial intelligence in healthcare (AIH) by healthcare providers and to understand “What are the factors that influence healthcare providers’ behavioral intentions to adopt AIH in their routine practice?” An integrated survey was conducted among healthcare providers, including consultants, residents/students, and nurses. The survey included items related to performance expectancy, effort expectancy, initial trust, personal innovativeness, task complexity, and technology characteristics. The collected data were analyzed using structural equation modeling. A total of 392 healthcare professionals participated in the survey, with 72.4% being male and 50.7% being 30 years old or younger. The results showed that performance expectancy, effort expectancy, and initial trust have a positive influence on the behavioral intentions of healthcare providers to use AIH. Personal innovativeness was found to have a positive influence on effort expectancy, while task complexity and technology characteristics have a positive influence on effort expectancy for AIH. The study’s empirically validated model sheds light on healthcare providers’ intention to adopt AIH, while the study’s findings can be used to develop strategies to encourage this adoption. However, further investigation is necessary to understand the individual factors affecting the adoption of AIH by healthcare providers.
Flavocytochrome b2-Mediated Electroactive Nanoparticles for Developing Amperometric L-Lactate Biosensors
Authors: Demkiv Olha , Gayda Galina , Stasyuk Nataliya , Moroz Anna , Serkiz Roman , Kausaite-Minkstimiene Asta , Gonchar Mykhailo , Nisnevitch Marina
Published: May 2023

L-Lactate is an indicator of food quality, so its monitoring is essential. Enzymes of L-Lactate metabolism are promising tools for this aim. We describe here some highly sensitive biosensors for L-Lactate determination which were developed using flavocytochrome b2 (Fcb2) as a bio-recognition element, and electroactive nanoparticles (NPs) for enzyme immobilization. The enzyme was isolated from cells of the thermotolerant yeast Ogataea polymorpha. The possibility of direct electron transfer from the reduced form of Fcb2 to graphite electrodes has been confirmed, and the amplification of the electrochemical communication between the immobilized Fcb2 and the electrode surface was demonstrated to be achieved using redox nanomediators, both bound and freely diffusing. The fabricated biosensors exhibited high sensitivity (up to 1436 A·M−1·m−2), fast responses, and low limits of detection. One of the most effective biosensors, which contained co-immobilized Fcb2 and the hexacyanoferrate of gold, having a sensitivity of 253 A·M−1·m−2 without freely diffusing redox mediators, was used for L-Lactate analysis in samples of yogurts. A high correlation was observed between the values of analyte content determined using the biosensor and referenced enzymatic-chemical photometric methods. The developed biosensors based on Fcb2-mediated electroactive nanoparticles can be promising for applications in laboratories of food control.
α7 Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors May Improve Schwann Cell Regenerating Potential via Metabotropic Signaling Pathways
Authors: Botticelli Elisabetta , Guerriero Claudia , Fucile Sergio , De Stefano Maria Egle , Matera Carlo , Dallanoce Clelia , De Amici Marco , Tata Ada Maria
Published: May 2023

Background: Schwann cells (SCs) are glial cells involved in peripheral axon myelination. SCs also play a strategic role after peripheral nerve injury, regulating local inflammation and axon regeneration. Our previous studies demonstrated the presence of cholinergic receptors in SCs. In particular, the α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) are expressed in SCs after peripheral axotomy, suggesting their involvement in the regulation of SC-regenerating properties. To clarify the role that α7 nAChRs may play after peripheral axon damage, in this study we investigated the signal transduction pathways triggered by receptor activation and the effects produced by their activation. Methods: Both ionotropic and metabotropic cholinergic signaling were analyzed by calcium imaging and Western blot analysis, respectively, following α7 nAChR activation. In addition, the expression of c-Jun and α7 nAChRs was evaluated by immunocytochemistry and Western blot analysis. Finally, the cell migration was studied by a wound healing assay. Results: Activation of α7 nAChRs, activated by the selective partial agonist ICH3, did not induce calcium mobilization but positively modulated the PI3K/AKT/mTORC1 axis. Activation of the mTORC1 complex was also supported by the up-regulated expression of its specific p-p70 S6KThr389 target. Moreover, up-regulation of p-AMPKThr172, a negative regulator of myelination, was also observed concomitantly to an increased nuclear accumulation of the transcription factor c-Jun. Cell migration and morphology analyses proved that α7 nAChR activation also promotes SC migration. Conclusions: Our data demonstrate that α7 nAChRs, expressed by SCs only after peripheral axon damage and/or in an inflammatory microenvironment, contribute to improve the SCs regenerating properties. Indeed, α7 nAChR stimulation leads to an upregulation of c-Jun expression and promotes Schwann cell migration by non-canonical pathways involving the mTORC1 activity.