bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
GA-Dueling DQN Jamming Decision-Making Method for Intra-Pulse Frequency Agile Radar
Authors: Xia Liqun , Wang Lulu , Xie Zhidong , Gao Xin
Published: February 2024

Optimizing jamming strategies is crucial for enhancing the performance of cognitive jamming systems in dynamic electromagnetic environments. The emergence of frequency-agile radars, capable of changing the carrier frequency within or between pulses, poses significant challenges for the jammer to make intelligent decisions and adapt to the dynamic environment. This paper focuses on researching intelligent jamming decision-making algorithms for Intra-Pulse Frequency Agile Radar using deep reinforcement learning. Intra-Pulse Frequency Agile Radar achieves frequency agility at the sub-pulse level, creating a significant frequency agility space. This presents challenges for traditional jamming decision-making methods to rapidly learn its changing patterns through interactions. By employing Gated Recurrent Units (GRU) to capture long-term dependencies in sequence data, together with the attention mechanism, this paper proposes a GA-Dueling DQN (GRU-Attention-based Dueling Deep Q Network) method for jamming frequency selection. Simulation results indicate that the proposed method outperforms traditional Q-learning, DQN, and Dueling DQN methods in terms of jamming effectiveness. It exhibits the fastest convergence speed and reduced reliance on prior knowledge, highlighting its significant advantages in jamming the subpulse-level frequency-agile radar.
Gas Imaging with Uncooled Thermal Imager
Authors: Zhang Mengjie , Chen Guanghai , Lin Peng , Dong Daming , Jiao Leizi
Published: February 2024

Gas imaging has become one of the research hotspots in the field of gas detection due to its significant advantages, such as high efficiency, large range, and dynamic visualization. It is widely used in industries such as natural gas transportation, chemical, and electric power industries. With the development of infrared detector technology, uncooled thermal imagers are undergoing a developmental stage of technological advancement and widespread application. This article introduces a gas imaging principle and radiation transfer model, focusing on passive imaging technology and active imaging technology. Combined with the actual analysis, the application scenarios using uncooled thermal imaging cameras for gas imaging measurement are analyzed. Finally, the limitations and challenges of the development of gas imaging technology are analyzed.
Benchmarking Artificial Neural Network Architectures for High-Performance Spiking Neural Networks
Authors: Islam Riadul , Majurski Patrick , Kwon Jun , Sharma Anurag , Tummala Sri Ranga Sai Krishna
Published: February 2024

Organizations managing high-performance computing systems face a multitude of challenges, including overarching concerns such as overall energy consumption, microprocessor clock frequency limitations, and the escalating costs associated with chip production. Evidently, processor speeds have plateaued over the last decade, persisting within the range of 2 GHz to 5 GHz. Scholars assert that brain-inspired computing holds substantial promise for mitigating these challenges. The spiking neural network (SNN) particularly stands out for its commendable power efficiency when juxtaposed with conventional design paradigms. Nevertheless, our scrutiny has brought to light several pivotal challenges impeding the seamless implementation of large-scale neural networks (NNs) on silicon. These challenges encompass the absence of automated tools, the need for multifaceted domain expertise, and the inadequacy of existing algorithms to efficiently partition and place extensive SNN computations onto hardware infrastructure. In this paper, we posit the development of an automated tool flow capable of transmuting any NN into an SNN. This undertaking involves the creation of a novel graph-partitioning algorithm designed to strategically place SNNs on a network-on-chip (NoC), thereby paving the way for future energy-efficient and high-performance computing paradigms. The presented methodology showcases its effectiveness by successfully transforming ANN architectures into SNNs with a marginal average error penalty of merely 2.65%. The proposed graph-partitioning algorithm enables a 14.22% decrease in inter-synaptic communication and an 87.58% reduction in intra-synaptic communication, on average, underscoring the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm in optimizing NN communication pathways. Compared to a baseline graph-partitioning algorithm, the proposed approach exhibits an average decrease of 79.74% in latency and a 14.67% reduction in energy consumption. Using existing NoC tools, the energy-latency product of SNN architectures is, on average, 82.71% lower than that of the baseline architectures.
Enhancing Urban Data Analysis: Leveraging Graph-Based Convolutional Neural Networks for a Visual Semantic Decision Support System
Authors: Sideris Nikolaos , Bardis Georgios , Voulodimos Athanasios , Miaoulis Georgios , Ghazanfarpour Djamchid
Published: February 2024

The persistent increase in the magnitude of urban data, combined with the broad range of sensors from which it derives in modern urban environments, poses issues including data integration, visualization, and optimal utilization. The successful selection of suitable locations for predetermined commercial activities and public utility services or the reuse of existing infrastructure arise as urban planning challenges to be addressed with the aid of the aforementioned data. In our previous work, we have integrated a multitude of publicly available real-world urban data in a visual semantic decision support environment, encompassing map-based data visualization with a visual query interface, while employing and comparing several classifiers for the selection of appropriate locations for establishing parking facilities. In the current work, we challenge the best representative of the previous approach, i.e., random forests, with convolutional neural networks (CNNs) in combination with a graph-based representation of the urban input data, relying on the same dataset to ensure comparability of the results. This approach has been inspired by the inherent visual nature of urban data and the increased capability of CNNs to classify image-based data. The experimental results reveal an improvement in several performance indices, implying a promising potential for this specific combination in decision support for urban planning problems.
A Novel Joint Denoising Method for Hydrophone Signal Based on Improved SGMD and WT
Authors: Xing Tianyu , Wang Xiaohao , Ni Kai , Zhou Qian
Published: February 2024

Underwater acoustic technology as an important means of exploring the oceans is receiving more attention. Denoising for underwater acoustic information in complex marine environments has become a hot research topic. In order to realize the hydrophone signal denoising, this paper proposes a joint denoising method based on improved symplectic geometry modal decomposition (ISGMD) and wavelet threshold (WT). Firstly, the energy contribution (EC) is introduced into the SGMD as an iterative termination condition, which efficiently improves the denoising capability of SGMD and generates a reasonable number of symplectic geometry components (SGCs). Then spectral clustering (SC) is used to accurately aggregate SGCs into information clusters mixed-clusters, and noise clusters. Spectrum entropy (SE) is used to distinguish clusters quickly. Finally, the mixed clusters achieve the signal denoising by wavelet threshold. The useful information is reconstructed to achieve the original signal denoising. In the simulation experiment, the denoising effect of different denoising algorithms in the time domain and frequency domain is compared, and SNR and RMSE are used as evaluation indexes. The results show that the proposed algorithm has better performance. In the experiment of hydrophone, the denoising ability of the proposed algorithm is also verified.
Wearables for Monitoring and Postural Feedback in the Work Context: A Scoping Review
Authors: Figueira Vânia , Silva Sandra , Costa Inês , Campos Bruna , Salgado João , Pinho Liliana , Freitas Marta , Carvalho Paulo , Marques João , Pinho Francisco
Published: February 2024

Wearables offer a promising solution for simultaneous posture monitoring and/or corrective feedback. The main objective was to identify, synthesise, and characterise the wearables used in the workplace to monitor and postural feedback to workers. The PRISMA-ScR guidelines were followed. Studies were included between 1 January 2000 and 22 March 2023 in Spanish, French, English, and Portuguese without geographical restriction. The databases selected for the research were PubMed®, Web of Science®, Scopus®, and Google Scholar®. Qualitative studies, theses, reviews, and meta-analyses were excluded. Twelve studies were included, involving a total of 304 workers, mostly health professionals (n = 8). The remaining studies covered workers in the industry (n = 2), in the construction (n = 1), and welders (n = 1). For assessment purposes, most studies used one (n = 5) or two sensors (n = 5) characterised as accelerometers (n = 7), sixaxial (n = 2) or nonaxialinertial measurement units (n = 3). The most common source of feedback was the sensor itself (n = 6) or smartphones (n = 4). Haptic feedback was the most prevalent (n = 6), followed by auditory (n = 5) and visual (n = 3). Most studies employed prototype wearables emphasising kinematic variables of human movement. Healthcare professionals were the primary focus of the study along with haptic feedback that proved to be the most common and effective method for correcting posture during work activities.
Artificial Potential Field Based Trajectory Tracking for Quadcopter UAV Moving Targets
Authors: Kownacki Cezary
Published: February 2024

The trajectory or moving-target tracking feature is desirable, because it can be used in various applications where the usefulness of UAVs is already proven. Tracking moving targets can also be applied in scenarios of cooperation between mobile ground-based and flying robots, where mobile ground-based robots could play the role of mobile landing pads. This article presents a novel proposition of an approach to position-tracking problems utilizing artificial potential fields (APF) for quadcopter UAVs, which, in contrast to well-known APF-based path planning methods, is a dynamic problem and must be carried out online while keeping the tracking error as low as possible. Also, a new flight control is proposed, which uses roll, pitch, and yaw angle control based on the velocity vector. This method not only allows the UAV to track a point where the potential function reaches its minimum but also enables the alignment of the course and velocity to the direction and speed given by the velocity vector from the APF. Simulation results present the possibilities of applying the APF method to holonomic UAVs such as quadcopters and show that such UAVs controlled on the basis of an APF behave as non-holonomic UAVs during 90° turns. This allows them and the onboard camera to be oriented toward the tracked target. In simulations, the AR Drone 2.0 model of the Parrot quadcopter is used, which will make it possible to easily verify the method in real flights in future research.
ScalableDigitalHealth (SDH): An IoT-Based Scalable Framework for Remote Patient Monitoring
Authors: Alasmary Hisham
Published: February 2024

Addressing the increasing demand for remote patient monitoring, especially among the elderly and mobility-impaired, this study proposes the “ScalableDigitalHealth” (SDH) framework. The framework integrates smart digital health solutions with latency-aware edge computing autoscaling, providing a novel approach to remote patient monitoring. By leveraging IoT technology and application autoscaling, the “SDH” enables the real-time tracking of critical health parameters, such as ECG, body temperature, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation. These vital metrics are efficiently transmitted in real time to AWS cloud storage through a layered networking architecture. The contributions are two-fold: (1) establishing real-time remote patient monitoring and (2) developing a scalable architecture that features latency-aware horizontal pod autoscaling for containerized healthcare applications. The architecture incorporates a scalable IoT-based architecture and an innovative microservice autoscaling strategy in edge computing, driven by dynamic latency thresholds and enhanced by the integration of custom metrics. This work ensures heightened accessibility, cost-efficiency, and rapid responsiveness to patient needs, marking a significant leap forward in the field. By dynamically adjusting pod numbers based on latency, the system optimizes system responsiveness, particularly in edge computing’s proximity-based processing. This innovative fusion of technologies not only revolutionizes remote healthcare delivery but also enhances Kubernetes performance, preventing unresponsiveness during high usage.
Research on Alternating Current Field Measurement Method for Buried Defects of Titanium Alloy Aircraft Skin
Authors: Liao Chunhui , Wang Ruize , Lv Cheng , Chen Tao , Deng Zhiyang , Song Xiaochun
Published: February 2024

Titanium alloys are extensively used in the manufacturing of key components in aerospace engines and aircraft structures due to their excellent properties. However, aircraft skins in harsh operating environments are subjected to long-term corrosion and pressure concentrations, which can lead to the formation of cracks and other defects. In this paper, a detection probe is designed based on the principle of alternating current field measurement, which can effectively detect both surface and buried defects in thin-walled titanium alloy plates. A finite element simulation model of alternating current field measurement detection for buried defects in thin-walled TC4 titanium alloy plates is established using COMSOL 5.6 software. The influence of defect length, depth, and excitation frequency on the characteristic signals is investigated, and the detection probe is optimized. Simulation and experimental results demonstrate that the proposed detection probe exhibits high detection sensitivity to varying lengths and depths of buried defects, and can detect small cracks with a length of 3 mm and a burial depth of 2 mm, as well as deep defects with a length of 10 mm and a burial depth of 4 mm. The feasibility of this probe for detecting buried defects in titanium alloy aircraft skin is confirmed.
A Flexible Wearable Sensor Based on Laser-Induced Graphene for High-Precision Fine Motion Capture for Pilots
Authors: Xing Xiaoqing , Zou Yao , Zhong Mian , Li Shichen , Fan Hongyun , Lei Xia , Yin Juhang , Shen Jiaqing , Liu Xinyi , Xu Man , Jiang Yong , Tang Tao , Qian Yu , Zhou Chao
Published: February 2024

There has been a significant shift in research focus in recent years toward laser-induced graphene (LIG), which is a high-performance material with immense potential for use in energy storage, ultrahydrophobic water applications, and electronic devices. In particular, LIG has demonstrated considerable potential in the field of high-precision human motion posture capture using flexible sensing materials. In this study, we investigated the surface morphology evolution and performance of LIG formed by varying the laser energy accumulation times. Further, to capture human motion posture, we evaluated the performance of highly accurate flexible wearable sensors based on LIG. The experimental results showed that the sensors prepared using LIG exhibited exceptional flexibility and mechanical performance when the laser energy accumulation was optimized three times. They exhibited remarkable attributes, such as high sensitivity (~41.4), a low detection limit (0.05%), a rapid time response (response time of ~150 ms; relaxation time of ~100 ms), and excellent response stability even after 2000 s at a strain of 1.0% or 8.0%. These findings unequivocally show that flexible wearable sensors based on LIG have significant potential for capturing human motion posture, wrist pulse rates, and eye blinking patterns. Moreover, the sensors can capture various physiological signals for pilots to provide real-time capturing.
The Mediating Effect of Psychological Resilience between Individual Social Capital and Mental Health in the Post-Pandemic Era: A Cross-Sectional Survey over 300 Family Caregivers of Kindergarten Children in Mainland China
Authors: Feng Juxiong , Cai Pengpeng , Guan Xin , Li Xuhong , He Langjie , Fung Kwok-kin , Mai Zheyuan
Published: February 2024

In the context of the impact of the post-COVID-19 pandemic on families, this study explores the impact of individual social capital and psychological resilience on the mental health of family caregivers of kindergarten children in mainland China. This study included a sample of 331 family caregivers from Zhaoqing City, Guangdong Province, and the researchers applied the Personal Social Capital Scale (PSCS-16), Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC-10), and Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS) to assess social capital, psychological resilience, and mental health. Findings indicate a positive relationship between bridging social capital and mental health, while psychological resilience is negatively associated with depression, anxiety, and stress. Psychological resilience is identified as a mediator between social capital and mental health outcomes in this study. These insights highlight the importance of enhancing social capital and psychological resilience to improve family caregivers’ mental health and the need for targeted interventions.
Pure Decoherence of the Jaynes–Cummings Model: Initial Entanglement with the Environment, Spin Oscillations and Detection of Non-Orthogonal States
Authors: Dajka Jerzy
Published: February 2024

A model based on pure decoherence for the Jaynes–Cummings spin–boson system, coupled through its integral of motion to an infinite bosonic bath, is proposed and examined. The properties of the spin oscillation process suggest an initial entanglement between the environment and the spin–boson degrees of freedom. The study demonstrates that the potential applicability of the Jaynes–Cummings model in detecting non-orthogonal bosonic states is preserved in the presence of pure decoherence.
Nonlinear Dynamics of a New Class of Micro-Electromechanical Oscillators—Open Problems
Authors: Kyurkchiev Nikolay , Zaevski Tsvetelin , Iliev Anton , Kyurkchiev Vesselin , Rahnev Asen
Published: February 2024

In this paper, we propose a new class of micro-electromechanical oscillators. Some investigations based on Melnikov’s approach are applied for identifying some chaotic possibilities. We demonstrate also some specialized modules for investigating the dynamics of these oscillators. This will be included as an integral part of a planned much more general Web-based application for scientific computing. It turns out that the theoretical apparatus for studying the circuit implementation (design, fabricating, etc.) of the considered differential model for large parameter values is extremely complex and requires a serious investigation. This is the reason to offer this model to the attention of specialists working in this scientific direction. Some open problems related to the use of existing computer algebraic systems for the study of this class of oscillators for large values of n,m and N are also posed. In general, the entire article is subordinated to this frank conversation with the readers with the sole purpose being the professional upgrading of the specialized modules provided for this purpose in subsequent licensed versions of CAS.
Performance Analysis and Simulation of IRS-Aided Wireless Networks Communication
Authors: Dikmen Osman
Published: February 2024

This paper introduces the novel IRS-based Optimal Relay Selection (ORS-IRS) method, aimed at analyzing the performance of wireless communication systems with an emphasis on symmetry. The ORS-IRS approach presents an innovative communication algorithm that seamlessly integrates Intelligent Reflecting Surfaces (IRS) with relay selection techniques. Through adaptive adjustments of reflection coefficients, IRS elements efficiently manipulate incoming signals, fostering symmetry in signal strength enhancement and latency reduction for improved signal delivery to the intended destination. This symmetrical optimization in channel capacity and transmission power ensures reliable data transmission with low latency, achieved through the seamless integration of IRS and relay selection techniques. In contrast, the Cell-Free Massive MIMO (CF-M-MIMO), with its decentralized architecture, excels in serving a larger user base and attaining remarkable capacity gains, showcasing a different dimension of symmetry. The Decode-and-Forward (DF) relaying approach demonstrates its potential in enhancing signal reliability across extended distances, contributing to the overall symmetry of the comparative analysis. This comprehensive evaluation provides valuable insights into selecting appropriate transmission strategies, particularly for applications that demand high capacity and reliability in the design of modern wireless communication systems with a symmetrical focus.
Discrepancy of Growth Toxicity of Polystyrene Nanoplastics on Soybean (Glycine max) and Mung Bean (Vigna radiata)
Authors: Su Dan , Li Wangwang , Zhang Zhaowei , Cai Hui , Zhang Le , Sun Yuanlong , Liu Xiaoning , Tian Zhiquan
Published: February 2024

Nanoplastics, as a hot topic of novel contaminants, lack extensive concern in higher plants; especially the potential impact and mechanism of nanoplastics on legume crops remains elusive. In this study, the toxicity of polystyrene nanoplastics (PS-NPs, 200 nm) with diverse doses (control, 10, 50, 100, 200, 500 mg/L) to soybean and mung bean plants grown hydroponically for 7 d was investigated at both the macroscopic and molecular levels. The results demonstrated that the root length of both plants was markedly suppressed to varying degrees. Similarly, mineral elements (Fe, Zn) were notably decreased in soybean roots, consistent with Cu alteration in mung bean. Moreover, PS-NPs considerably elevated malondialdehyde (MDA) levels only in soybean roots. Enzyme activity data indicated mung bean exhibited significant damage only at higher doses of PS-NPs stress than soybean, implying mung bean is more resilient. Transcriptome analysis showed that PS-NPs stimulated the expression of genes associated with the antioxidant system in plant roots. Furthermore, starch and sucrose metabolism might play a key role in coping with PS-NPs to enhance soybean resistance, but the MAPK pathway was enriched in mung bean. Our findings provide valuable perspectives for an in-depth understanding of the performance of plants growing in waters contaminated by nanoplastics.
The Immobilization Mechanism of Inorganic Amendments on Cu and Cd in Polluted Paddy Soil in Short/Long Term
Authors: Liu Qing , Ding Yuan , Lai Yuqi , Long Yan , Shi Hong , Liu Min
Published: February 2024

This study investigated the impact of soil colloidal characteristics on the transfer patterns of different Cu and Cd speciation in contaminated soil treated with three different amendments: lime (L), zero-valent iron (ZVI), and attapulgite (ATP). It seeks to clarify the activation hazards and aging processes of these modifications on Cu and Cd. Compared with the control (CK), the available Cu concentrations treated with amendments reduced in the short term (6 months) by 96.49%, 5.54%, and 89.78%, respectively, and Cd declined by 55.43%, 32.31%, and 93.80%, respectively. Over a 12-year period, there was no significant change in the immobile effect with L, while Cu and Cd fell by 19.06% and 40.65% with ZVI and by 7.63% and 40.78% with ATP. Short- and long-term increases in the readily reducible iron and manganese oxide fraction of Cu and Cd were accompanied by a considerable rise in the concentrations of amorphous iron oxide in the soil and colloid after amendment treatment. This suggested that Cu and Cd were immobilized and stabilized in part by amorphous iron oxide.
Unveiling Molecular Effects of the Secondary Metabolite 2-Dodecanone in the Model Hymenopteran Nasonia vitripennis
Authors: Planelló Rosario , Aquilino Mónica , Beaugeard Laureen , Llorente Lola , Herrero Óscar , Siaussat David , Lécureuil Charlotte
Published: February 2024

Over the past decade, multiple studies have suggested that the secondary metabolites produced by plants against herbivorous insects could be used as biopesticides. However, as the molecular mechanism of action of these compounds remains unknown, it is difficult to predict how they would affect non-target insects; thus, their innocuity needs to be clarified. Here, we investigate, from the molecular level to the organism, the responses of a useful parasitic insect Nasonia vitripennis (Walker, 1836) being exposed at the pupae stage for 48 h (up to 6 days) to sublethal doses (5 µg/L and 500 µg/L) of 2-Dodecanone. 2-Dodecanone altered the gene expression of genes related to ecdysone-related pathways, biotransformation, and cell homeostasis. A significant induction of ecdysone response-genes (EcR, usp, E78, Hr4, Hr38) was detected, despite no significant differences in ecdysteroid levels. Regarding the cell homeostasis processes, the gene l(2)efl was differentially altered in both experimental conditions, and a dose-dependent induction of hex81 was observed. 2-Dodecanone also triggered an induction of Cyp6aQ5 activity. Finally, 2-Dodecanone exposure had a significant effect on neither development time, energy reserves, nor egg-laying capacity; no potential genotoxicity was detected. For the first time, this study shows evidence that 2-Dodecanone can modulate gene expression and interfere with the ecdysone signalling pathway in N. vitripennis. This could lead to potential endocrine alterations and highlight the suitability of this organism to improve our general understanding of the molecular effects of plant defences in insects. Our findings provide new insights into the toxicity of 2-Dodecanone that could potentially be explored in other species and under field conditions for plant protection and pest management as a means to reduce reliance on synthetic pesticides.
Embryotoxic Effects of Pesticides in Zebrafish (Danio rerio): Diflubenzuron, Pyriproxyfen, and Its Mixtures
Authors: Teixeira Júlia Robert de Sousa , de Souza Augusto Monteiro , Macedo-Sampaio João Vitor de , Menezes Fabiano Peres , Pereira Bruno Fiorelini , de Medeiros Silvia Regina Batistuzzo , Luchiari Ana Carolina
Published: February 2024

Diflubenzuron (DFB) and pyriproxyfen (PPF) are larvicides used in crops to control insect plagues. However, these pesticides are known to impact non-target organisms like fish and mammals. Here, we aimed at assessing the embryotoxicity of purified DFB, PPF, and their mixtures in a non-target organism—zebrafish. Zebrafish embryos were exposed to different concentrations for 120 h: 0.025, 0.125, 0.25, 1.25, 2.5, and 10 mg/L of purified PPF and purified DFB, while we used 0.025 mg/L PPF + 10 mg/L DFB (Mix A), 0.125 mg/L PPF + 10 mg/L DFB (Mix B), and 0.25 mg/L PPF + 10 mg/L DFB (Mix C) for the mixtures of PPF + DFB. We observed mortality, teratogenicity, and cardiotoxicity. For the neurotoxicity tests and evaluation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in the brain, embryos were exposed for 120 h to 0.379 and 0.754 mg/L of PPF and 0.025 and 0.125 mg/L of DFB. We established the LC50 for PPF as 3.79 mg/L, while the LC50 for DFB was not determinable. Survival and hatching were affected by PPF concentrations above 0.125 mg/L, DFB concentrations above 1.25 mg/L, and the lower pesticide mixtures. PPF exposure and mixtures induced different types of malformations, while a higher number of malformations were observed for the mixtures, suggesting a potentiating effect. Pesticides diminished avoidance responses and increased the levels of ROS across all concentrations, indicating neurotoxicity. Our findings underscore the detrimental impact of PPF and DFB exposure, spanning from biochemistry to morphology. There is a critical need to reconsider the global use of these pesticides and transition to more ecologically friendly forms of pest control, raising an alarm regarding repercussions on human and animal health and well-being.
Particulate Matter Induces Oxidative Stress and Ferroptosis in Human Lung Epithelial Cells
Authors: Ahn Yujin , Yim Yong-Hyeon , Yoo Hee Min
Published: February 2024

Numerous toxicological studies have highlighted the association between urban particulate matter (PM) and increased respiratory infections and lung diseases. The adverse impact on the lungs is directly linked to the complex composition of particulate matter, initiating reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and consequent lipid peroxidation. Excessive ROS, particularly within mitochondria, can destroy subcellular organelles through various pathways. In this study, we confirmed the induction of ferroptosis, an iron-dependent cell death, upon exposure to an urban PM using RT-qPCR and signaling pathway analysis. We used KRISS CRM 109-02-004, the certified reference material for the analysis of particulate matter, produced by the Korea Research Institute of Standards and Science (KRISS). To validate that ferroptosis causes lung endothelial toxicity, we assessed intracellular mitochondrial potential, ROS overproduction, lipid peroxidation, and specific ferroptosis biomarkers. Following exposure to the urban PM, a significant increase in ROS generation and a decrease in mitochondrial potential were observed. Furthermore, it induced hallmarks of ferroptosis, including the accumulation of lipid peroxidation, the loss of antioxidant defenses, and cellular iron accumulation. In addition, the occurrence of oxidative stress as a key feature of ferroptosis was confirmed by increased expression levels of specific oxidative stress markers such as NQO1, CYP1B1, FTH1, SOD2, and NRF. Finally, a significant increase in key ferroptosis markers was observed, including xCT/SLC7A11, NQO1, TRIM16, HMOX-1, FTL, FTH1, CYP1B1, CHAC1, and GPX4. This provides evidence that elevated ROS levels induce oxidative stress, which ultimately triggers ferroptosis. In conclusion, our results show that the urban PM, KRISS CRM, induces cellular and mitochondrial ROS production, leading to oxidative stress and subsequent ferroptosis. These results suggest that it may induce ferroptosis through ROS generation and may offer potential strategies for the treatment of lung diseases.
Analysis of Mercury in Aquifers in Gold Mining Areas in the Ecuadorian Amazon and Its Associated Risk for Human Health
Authors: Passarelli Irene , Villacis Verdesoto Michelle Vanessa , Jiménez-Oyola Samantha , Flores Huilcapi Ana Gabriela , Mora-Silva Demmy , Anfuso Giorgio , Esparza Parra Jose Fernando , Jimenez-Gutierrez Mirian , Carrera Almendáriz Luis Santiago , Avalos Peñafiel Victor Gabriel , Straface Salvatore , Mestanza-Ramón Carlos
Published: February 2024

Gold mining activity is a source of supply in many areas of the world, and especially in developing countries, it is practiced illegally and by applying unsafe techniques. Particularly in Ecuador, artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) is widespread, and it is based on the use of toxic substances, such as mercury (Hg), in gold recovery. Hg is a heavy metal that is water-insoluble, which, once mobilized, poses a threat to both the environment and human health. This study analyzes Hg concentrations in the six provinces of Napo, Sucumbíos, Orellana, Pastaza, Morona Santiago, and Zamora Chinchipe of the Ecuadorian Amazon region to conduct a human health risk assessment. Significant differences in Hg levels were found between provinces, but concentrations were below MPL imposed by Ecuadorian regulations everywhere. Nevertheless, a worrisome picture emerges, especially with regard to the most vulnerable receptors represented by the child population. There are multiple factors of incidence that may affect the possible future development of the phenomenon, and with reference to the social, economic, and environmental context of the region, it can be concluded that it may be appropriate to plan further investigation to arrive at a more comprehensive assessment. The results of this study can be used by decision makers to plan further investigation and to implement monitoring networks, risk mitigation strategies, and groundwater protection measures.
Genital and Oral HPV Geno-Prevalence Measured through Urine and Saliva Samples in Young Adults in Italy
Authors: Napolitano Francesco , Angelillo Silvia , Bianco Aida , Di Giuseppe Gabriella , Di Onofrio Valeria , Licata Francesca , Liguori Giorgio , Nobile Carmelo Giuseppe Angelo , Pavia Maria , Pelullo Concetta Paola , Zito Marino Federica , Angelillo Italo Francesco
Published: February 2024

Background: The aims of the study were to determine, in the urine and oral samples of young adults, the genotype-specific prevalence of Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) infection, the HPV DNA type-specific prevalence in unvaccinated and vaccinated individuals, and the determinants of HPV infection. Methods: Selected participants were asked to fill in a self-administered questionnaire and to self-collect urine and saliva samples. Results: Among the 1002 participants, 81 (8.1%) resulted positive for HPV DNA. The most common low-risk genotype was HPV 42 (2.2%), followed by HPV 43 (0.8%), and 40 (0.5%). The HPV 51 was the most common high-risk genotype (1.5%) followed by HPV 66 (1%) and HPV 68 (1%), and no participants were infected with HPV genotypes 18, 33, 45. Females, those who have had one or more occasional sexual partner, those who never/rarely/sometimes used condoms during their sexual activity, those with a previous diagnosis of sexually transmitted infection, and those who were not vaccinated were more likely to be tested positive for HPV infection. Conclusions: The low prevalence of genital HPV infections has provided evidence of the effectiveness of HPV vaccination both in vaccinated and not yet vaccinated subjects through herd immunity and indicated its decisive role in the changing epidemiology of circulating HPV genotypes in the population.
Serum SARM1 Levels and Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy in Type 2 Diabetes: Correlation with Clinical Neuropathy Scales and Nerve Conduction Studies and Impact of COVID-19 vaccination
Authors: Alrawaili Moafaq S. , Abuzinadah Ahmad R. , AlShareef Aysha A. , Hindi Emad A. , Bamaga Ahmed K. , Alshora Weam , Sindi Hashim
Published: February 2024

Patients with peripheral neuropathy with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are more likely to have functional impairments. Recently, the gene for serum sterile alpha and toll/interleukin receptor motif-containing protein 1 (SARM1), which may contribute to the pathogenesis of Wallerian degeneration, was discovered in mice models of peripheral neuropathy. We set out to assess serum SARM1’s activity as a potential biomarker for the early identification of diabetic peripheral neuropathy in T2DM patients while also examining the impact of the COVID-19 vaccine on SARM1 levels. We assessed the cross-sectional relationships between the SARM1 biomarker, clinical neuropathy scales, and nerve conduction parameters in 80 participants aged between 30 years and 60 years. The analysis was carried out after the patients were split into two groups since we discovered a significant increase in SARM1 levels following the second dose of the COVID-19 vaccination, where group A received one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine inoculation, and group B received two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine. SARM1 was correlated significantly (p < 0.05) with MNSIe and NSS in group A and showed a consistent positive correlation with the other neuropathy clinical scales in group A and group B without reaching statistical significance. Additionally, SARM1 was negatively correlated significantly (p < 0.05) with the median sensory amplitude in group A and showed a consistent negative correlation with the six other sensory and motor nerves’ potential amplitude in group A and group B without reaching statistical significance. In conclusion, SARM1 showed a consistent correlation with clinical neuropathy scales and nerve conduction parameters after accounting for the influence of COVID-19 vaccination doses.
Long-Term Clinical Safety of the Ad26.ZEBOV and MVA-BN-Filo Ebola Vaccines: A Prospective, Multi-Country, Observational Study
Authors: Puri Adeep , Pollard Andrew J. , Schmidt-Mutter Catherine , Lainé Fabrice , PrayGod George , Kibuuka Hannah , Barry Houreratou , Nicolas Jean-François , Lelièvre Jean-Daniel , Sirima Sodiomon Bienvenu , Kamala Beatrice , Manno Daniela , Watson-Jones Deborah , Gaddah Auguste , Keshinro Babajide , Luhn Kerstin , Robinson Cynthia , Douoguih Macaya
Published: February 2024

In this prospective, observational study (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02661464), long-term safety information was collected from participants previously exposed to the Ebola vaccines Ad26.ZEBOV and/or MVA-BN-Filo while enrolled in phase 1, 2, or 3 clinical studies. The study was conducted at 15 sites in seven countries (Burkina Faso, France, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, the United Kingdom, and the United States). Adult participants and offspring from vaccinated female participants who became pregnant (estimated conception ≤28 days after vaccination with MVA-BN-Filo or ≤3 months after vaccination with Ad26.ZEBOV) were enrolled. Adults were followed for 60 months after their first vaccination, and children born to female participants were followed for 60 months after birth. In the full analysis set (n = 614 adults; median age [range]: 32.0 [18–65] years), 49 (8.0%) had ≥1 serious adverse event (SAE); the incidence rate of any SAE was 27.4 per 1000 person-years (95% confidence interval: 21.0, 35.2). The unrelated SAEs of malaria were reported in the two infants in the full analysis set, aged 11 and 18 months; both episodes were resolved. No deaths or life-threatening SAEs occurred during the study. Overall, no major safety issues were identified; one related SAE was reported. These findings support the long-term clinical safety of the Ad26.ZEBOV and MVA-BN-Filo vaccines.
Co-Administration of Influenza and COVID-19 Vaccines: Policy Review and Vaccination Coverage Trends in the European Union, UK, US, and Canada between 2019 and 2023
Authors: Achterbergh Roel C. A. , McGovern Ian , Haag Mendel
Published: February 2024

Recommending co-administration of influenza and COVID-19 vaccines has emerged as a strategy to enhance vaccination coverage. This study describes the policy on co-administration and uptake of influenza and COVID-19 vaccination in Europe, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Canada between 2019 and 2023. We collected co-administration policy data from governmental websites, national health organizations, and newspapers. Influenza vaccination coverage among persons ≥65 years and COVID-19 vaccination coverage rates among persons ≥60 years or the general population were collected using national databases, the ECDC database, or ourworldindata.org between 2019 and 2023. Descriptive analyses were used. We collected data from 30/32 (94%) countries on vaccination policy in seasons 2021–2022 and 2022–2023, with most countries (25/30 to 30/30) having policies recommending co-administration. For influenza vaccination coverage, we collected data from 29/32 (91%, 2019–2020), 28/32 (88%, 2020–2021), 27/32 (84%, 2021–2022), and 6/32 (19%, 2022–2023) countries. COVID-19 vaccination was collected from 32/32 (2020–2021), 31/32 (97%, 2021–2022), and 24/32 (75%, 2022–2023) countries. Influenza vaccination coverage increased from 2019–2020 to 2021–2022. COVID-19 vaccination coverage was higher among countries with higher influenza vaccination coverage. By 2022–2023, all countries included implemented a policy supporting co-administration. A positive correlation existed between higher influenza vaccination coverage and higher COVID-19 vaccination rates.
O Processo da Leitura: considerações sobre compreensão, aspectos cognitivos e tipos de processamento da informação
Authors: Regiani Pereira Juliana , Baretta Luciane
Published: February 2024

A leitura é uma ação de raciocínio a qual compõe várias reflexões na construção da interpretação de uma mensagem escrita, e é essencial para que uma pessoa seja capaz de praticar sua cidadania de forma plena. Devido aos avanços nos estudos sobre leitura, passou-se a identificar peculiaridades relativas ao chamado leitor eficiente, proficiente, competente, o bom leitor. Porém, para alcançar a compreensão (textual), o leitor deve realizar a extração e construção de significações. Além disso, o processo de leitura é perpassado por aspectos cognitivos e tipos de processamento da informação. Nessa perspectiva, este artigo traz um recorte da revisão de literatura de uma pesquisa em nível de Mestrado, que teve como objetivo geral levantar dados referentes à percepção de acadêmicos (iniciantes, concluintes) de um curso de Letras Português, enquanto (futuros) professores de língua materna, acerca da habilidade e do ensino da leitura.
Green bonds as the driving force of environmental performance – the European perspective
Authors: Janik Bogna , Maruszewska Katarzyna
Published: February 2024

This paper identifies regions with high environmental performance by assessing the size of green bond issuance in European countries from a cause-and-effect perspective. Cluster analysis and descriptive statistics were used to meet this research objective. The research subject was the size of green bond issuance, understood as the driving force for the green economy in European countries. The main findings of the research show a strong correlation between the size of green bond issuance and environmental performance. Due to limited access to source data, the analysis of green sources of financing was restricted only to the size of green bond issuance, excluding other funding sources. Identifying the regions with high environmental performance and high value of green bond issuance will allow for an effective support plan for pro-ecological actions by using soft and complex tools of green policy, bearing in mind existing limitations, too. This approach determines groups of countries that share similar features, i.e., the ones that take advantage of green projects financed by the issuance of green bonds and simultaneously have a high environmental performance index.
Sakkarozun Enzimatik Olarak Hidrolizinin Optimizasyonu
Authors: Gül Abdulkadir , Tanyıldızı Muhammet Şaban
Published: February 2024

Nişasta kaynaklı glukoz şurupları endüstriyel uygulamalarda geniş bir paya sahip olmasına rağmen temelde sağlıkla ilgili tartışmalar tüketicilerde sakkarozun kullanımını öne çıkarmaktadır. Sakkaroz, asitleştirme veya enzimatik yöntemlerle invert şekerler adı verilen glukoz ve fruktoz monomerlerine hidroliz edilebilirler. Bu yöntemlerden enzimatik hidroliz işlemi geleneksel kimyasal proseslere göre daha düşük sıcaklıklarda gerçekleşmesi ve daha az toksik atık üretmesinden dolayı endüstride tercih edilen bir yöntemdir. Bununla birlikte, hidroliz işleminde kullanılan enzimler genellikle yeniden kullanımı zor ve stabilitesi düşük moleküller olup, üretim maliyetlerinin yüksek olması endüstriyel ölçekte uygulanmasını zorlaştırmaktadır. Bu çalışmanın amacı sakkarozun invertaz enzimi yardımıyla hidrolizinde önemli olan bağımsız değişkenlerin sakkaroz dönüşüm oranı, hidrolizi verimi ve toplam indirgen şeker konsantrasyonu üzerine etkisinin Merkez Kompozit Dizayn (MKD) deneysel tasarım yöntemi kullanılarak detaylı olarak belirlenmesidir. MKD ile gerçekleştirilen deneylerde incelenen bağımsız değişkenler ve cevap değişkenleri arasında enzim aktivitesini de içeren model bir denklem oluşturulmuştur. Bağımsız değişkenlerin incelenen aralıkları içerisinde, matematiksel model ifadenin hem indirgen şeker konsantrasyonu hem de dönüşümün maksimum olduğu şartlar için yapılan optimizasyon işlemi sonucunda; sakkaroz konsantrasyonu 190,16 g/L, enzim aktivitesi 55,36 U/mL, sıcaklık 33,46 oC, reaksiyon süresi 131,10 dk ve karıştırma hızı 120,86 rpm olarak belirlenmiştir. Sonuç olarak, sakkarozun enzimatik hidrolizi için verimli çalışma koşulları belirlenmiştir.
Pengaruh Efek Samping Imunisasi terhadap Tingkat Kecemasan Ibu Balita
Authors: Zakiyah Fithrotuz , Setyowati Lisus , Rohmati Homsiatur
Published: February 2024

An adverse event following immunization (AEFI) are medical case which related to vaccine reactions, injection reactions, pharmacological effects, procedural in failure, coincidences or undetermined causal relationships. AEFI are also defined as a medical event following an unintended immunization that results in hospitalization or extension of hospitalization, permanent or significant disability and death, and causes unrest. This study aims of this study was to find out immunization side effects on the anxiety level of mothers who has toddler in the Cakru Community Health Center working area located in Jember.The research method used quantitative with correlational techniques by sample size of 51 people, and using the Chi Square test for analyze.From identificated of immunization on toddler, that was found if most of respondents got of immunization effects about 38 respondents (74.5%) and most of them respondents had mild low anxiety about 26 respondents (51%). The results bye Chi-Square test, it was found it p value<0.05, (p = 0.000) which was indicated, there was immunization side effects to anxiety level of mothers in the Cakru Health Center Work Area.Families and mothers are expected to participate health education about complete immunization and about the effects after getting immunization.
Pengaruh Pemberian Akupresur terhadap Nyeri Persalinan Fase Aktif
Authors: Prastyoningsih Aris , Wahyuni Siti , Pangesti Christin Bumi , Andini Dwi Margareta
Published: February 2024

Contraction pain is main problem for patients in the 1st stage of labor in active phase. Labor pain in  first stage of the active phase can be treated with acupressure at points L14 and SP6. The L14 and SP6 acupressure points can stimulate release of hormone oxytocin from pituitary, which will stimulate uterine contractions, thereby helping the labor process to be better and reducing pain during labor. The aim of this study was to determine how acupressure impacts labor pain during  active phase of the first stage. Design of this research is one group pre-post test. This study involved 30 women giving birth normally, in 1st stage of the active phase, who had no abnormalities or injuries at L14 and SP6 locations. Ttool used is Wong Baker Pain Scale. The results showed that maternal patients in 1st active phase had an average pain scale of 8.03 before being given acupressure, and pain scale dropped to 3.26 after being given acupressure. There was a significant difference between the groups before and after acupressure with a p value of 0.000. There is an effect of giving acupressure on the intensity of pain in mothers giving birth during the first active phase