bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Limitations of neural network training due to numerical instability of backpropagation
Authors: Karner Clemens , Kazeev Vladimir , Petersen Philipp Christian
Published: February 2024

We study the training of deep neural networks by gradient descent where floating-point arithmetic is used to compute the gradients. In this framework and under realistic assumptions, we demonstrate that it is highly unlikely to find ReLU neural networks that maintain, in the course of training with gradient descent, superlinearly many affine pieces with respect to their number of layers. In virtually all approximation theoretical arguments which yield high order polynomial rates of approximation, sequences of ReLU neural networks with exponentially many affine pieces compared to their numbers of layers are used. As a consequence, we conclude that approximating sequences of ReLU neural networks resulting from gradient descent in practice differ substantially from theoretically constructed sequences. The assumptions and the theoretical results are compared to a numerical study, which yields concurring results.
Automatic fruit picking technology: a comprehensive review of research advances
Authors: Zhang Jun , Kang Ningbo , Qu Qianjin , Zhou Lianghuan , Zhang Hongbo
Published: February 2024

In recent years, the fruit industry has become an important part of agricultural development, and fruit harvesting is a key stage in the production process. However, picking fruits during the harvest season is always a major challenge. In order to solve the challenges of time-consuming, costly, and inefficient fruit picking, researchers have conducted a lot of studies on automatic fruit picking equipment. Existing picking technologies still require further research and development to improve efficiency and reduce fruit damage. Aiming at the efficient and non-destructive picking of fruits, this paper reviews machine vision and mechanical fruit picking technology and the current research status, including the current application status, equipment structure, working principle, picking process, and experimental results. As a promising tool, machine vision technology has been widely researched and applied due to its low hardware cost and rich visual information. With the development of science and technology, automated fruit picking technology integrates information technology, integrates automatic perception, transmission, control, and operation, etc., saves manpower costs, and continuously promotes the development of modern agriculture in the direction of refinement of equipment technology, automation, and intelligence. Finally, the challenges faced by automated fruit picking are discussed, and future development is looked forward to with a view to contributing to its sustainable development.
A Genetically Informed Study of the Association Between Perceived Stress and Loneliness
Authors: Moshtael Ryan , Lynch Morgan E. , Duncan Glen E. , Beam Christopher R.
Published: February 2024

Although research shows a strong positive association between perceived stress and loneliness, the genetic and environmental etiology underlying their association remains unknown. People with a genetic predisposition to perceived stress, for example, may be more prone to feeling lonely and vice versa. Conversely, unique factors in people’s lives may explain differences in perceived stress levels that, in turn, affect feelings of loneliness. We tested whether genetic factors, environmental factors, or both account for the association between perceived stress and loneliness. Participants were 3,066 individual twins (nFemale = 2,154, 70.3%) from the Washington State Twin Registry who completed a survey during April–May, 2020. Structural equation modeling was used to analyze the item-level perceived stress and loneliness measures. The correlation between latent perceived stress and latent loneliness was .68. Genetic and nonshared environmental variance components underlying perceived stress accounted for 3.71% and 23.26% of the total variance in loneliness, respectively. The genetic correlation between loneliness and perceived stress was .45 and did not differ significantly between men and women. The nonshared environmental correlation was .54 and also did not differ between men and women. Findings suggest that holding constant the strong genetic association between perceived stress and loneliness, unique life experiences underlying people’s perceived stress account for individual differences in loneliness.
A Taxonomy of UK Reaction-to-Fire Standard Testing: The Role of Black Boxing of Expertise
Authors: Law Angus , Spinardi Graham , Bisby Luke
Published: February 2024

Fire testing enables an individual or an organisation to make a claim about how a material, product, or system will perform in operational use. This paper describes and analyses the various reaction-to-fire tests that have used over the last 100 years in the UK. By analysing the commonalities and differences between these tests we propose a ‘taxonomy of testing’. We suggest that tests may be classified by the degree to which users may unthinkingly apply the results—without leading to negative fire safety outcomes. We propose three categories: unrepresentative tests; model tests; and technological proof tests. Unrepresentative tests are those which do not mimic building fire scenarios, but have thresholds so conservative that users need not consider whether the test was applicable to their intended application. Model tests are those based on ‘models’ of expected fire scenarios—users must therefore be confident that the model is sufficiently similar to their application. Technological proof tests are those which provide a more realistic test of a real building system—users must carefully analyse the similarities between their test and the real building before applying the results. From this we conclude that where user competence is low, policymakers should cite only unrepresentative (and conservative tests) within their guidance. Conversely where user competence is high, policy makers may more safety cite model or technological proof tests. The kinds of tests that may be safely cited in guidance are therefore indelibly linked to the expertise of the user.
Silicone rubber thermal aging performance for cables and accessories
Authors: Su Dandan
Published: February 2024

Polymer-based semiconductor materials are mainly used for cable body and cable accessories to ensure long-term stability of power cables. The physical and chemical properties of the semi-conductive shielding layer of the cable will change due to aging. The new silicone material has excellent insulation and mechanical properties and is widely used in cable accessories. In this paper, the insulation materials—silicon rubber is studied. First, the silicone rubber sample is prepared. Then, the mechanical and dielectric properties of the samples before and after aging are tested. The results show that thermal aging has a significant effect on the characteristic parameters of silicone rubber. With the increase of aging time, the hardness and elastic modulus of the silicone rubber sample gradually increased, while the tensile strength and elongation at break significantly decreased with the increase of aging time. With the increase of aging time, the thermal stability of the silicone rubber sample decreases, the cross-linking degree of the system increases, and the organic property decreases. The measurement and analysis of thermal aging characteristics of silicone rubber can help to reduce the failure frequency of cable accessories and improve the safety.
Cannabidiol-loaded microparticles embedded in a porous hydrogel matrix for biomedical applications
Authors: David Carla , de Souza Jaqueline F. , Silva Adriana F. , Grazioli Guillermo , Barboza Andressa S. , Lund Rafael G. , Fajardo André R. , Moraes Rafael R.
Published: February 2024

In this study, poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microparticles loaded with cannabidiol (CBD) were synthesized (PLGA@CBD microparticles) and embedded up to 10 wt% in a chondroitin sulfate/polyvinyl alcohol hydrogel matrix. In vitro chemical, physical, and biological assays were carried out to validate the potential use of the modified hydrogels as biomaterials. The microparticles had spherical morphology and a narrow range of size distribution. CBD encapsulation efficiency was around 52%, loading was approximately 50%. Microparticle addition to the hydrogels caused minor changes in their morphology, FTIR and thermal analyses confirmed these changes. Swelling degree and total porosity were reduced in the presence of microparticles, but similar hydrophilic and degradation in phosphate buffer solution behaviors were observed by all hydrogels. Rupture force and maximum strain at rupture were higher in the modified hydrogels, whereas modulus of elasticity was similar across all materials. Viability of primary human dental pulp cells up to 21 days was generally not influenced by the addition of PLGA@CBD microparticles. The control hydrogel showed no antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, whereas hydrogels with 5% and 10% PLGA@CBD microparticles showed inhibition zones. In conclusion, the PLGA@CBD microparticles were fabricated and successfully embedded in a hydrogel matrix. Despite the hydrophobic nature of CBD, the physicochemical and morphological properties were generally similar for the hydrogels with and without the CBD-loaded microparticles. The data reported in this study suggested that this original biomaterial loaded with CBD oil has characteristics that could enable it to be used as a scaffold for tissue/cellular regeneration.

Graphical Abstract
Aristotelian Flourishing and Contemporary Philosophical Theories of Wellbeing
Authors: Symons Xavier , VanderWeele Tyler
Published: February 2024

Several philosophical theories of wellbeing claim Aristotelian ancestry and employ an Aristotelian construct of flourishing. Yet it is not clear how we should interpret Aristotle’s notion of flourishing or eudaimonia (εὐδαιμονία). In this article, we offer an analysis of Aristotle’s notion of eudaimonia and consider to what extent it can be categorized within the framework of contemporary philosophical theories of wellbeing. We stress the active character of Aristotelian flourishing and its focus on the development of living things over time, which contrasts with the static and passive character of contemporary philosophical accounts of wellbeing. We suggest that Aristotle is closest to a perfectionist theory of wellbeing, though even this requires some qualification. While rational activity in accord with virtue is central to Aristotle’s account of living well, Aristotle also states that a range of practical human activities and propitious life circumstances are necessary (and, on some interpretations, constitutive) features of the flourishing life. As such, Aristotelian flourishing includes elements of moral and cognitive perfectionism as well as an objective list of external goods and presupposes one’s embeddedness within communities. We close with a consideration of the implications of our argument for the philosophical and social scientific study of flourishing. Contemporary well-being philosophers should be mindful of ways in which Aristotelian eudaimonia extends beyond the dominant philosophical categories of wellbeing that have a static focus and concern themselves with subjective experience or the possession of objective goods. Social scientists should be transparent about the limits of invoking an Aristotelian pedigree to motivate their own theories of wellbeing and should understand the implications of more limited conceptions.
Did the COVID-19 pandemic influence access to green spaces? Results of a literature review during the first year of pandemic
Authors: González-Marín Alicia , Garrido-Cumbrera Marco
Published: February 2024

Context

The restrictions imposed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the relationship between humans and their environment. The studies analyzed focus mainly on urban spaces during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Objectives

The aim of the present study was to assess the changes that the COVID-19 pandemic has caused in the relation between humans and nature, including the view, use, and perception of green spaces.

Methods

This review was performed by keyword searches in the main bibliographic repositories. We included all studies that examined the relationship between green spaces and nature during the COVID-19 pandemic. The search was restricted to studies published in English from the end of 2019 until the end of March 2021. Following the inclusion criteria, a total of 31 articles were analyzed.

Results

The COVID-19 pandemic has modified the relationship between population and green spaces. In countries with fewer restrictions, some travel was permitted, and green spaces could be visited. Countries with more severe restrictions, such as Spain and Italy, registered a significant reduction in the use of green spaces, especially during home confinement. The issues addressed by most studies analyzed include variations in access and use to green space and its economic inequalities, the influence of views of green space on well-being and the associations between COVID-19 rates and availability of green spaces from the beginning of the pandemic until March 2021.

Conclusion

The different government responses to COVID-19 have influenced the access to and use of green spaces, showing an increase in the exposure and appreciation of green spaces. Green spaces have increased the resilience of both cities and their residents, especially during the pandemic lockdown.
Refining intra-patch connectivity measures in landscape fragmentation and connectivity indices
Authors: Justeau-Allaire Dimitri , Ibanez Thomas , Vieilledent Ghislain , Lorca Xavier , Birnbaum Philippe
Published: February 2024

Context

Measuring intra-patch connectivity, i.e. the connectivity within a habitat patch, is important to evaluate landscape fragmentation and connectivity. However, intra-patch connectivity is mainly measured with patch size, which can conceal diverse intra-patch connectivity patterns for similar patch size distributions.

Objectives

We suggest a method to refine the intra-patch connectivity component of fragmentation and connectivity indices. This method allows for distinguishing different intra-patch connectivity patterns for similar patch size distributions.

Methods

We used normalized patch complexity indices to weight patch size in common fragmentation and connectivity indices. Patch complexity indices included two existing geometrical indices (SHAPE and FRAC), and a new index derived from spatial network analysis, the mean detour index (MDI). We analyzed the behaviours of adjusted fragmentation and connectivity indices theoretically and empirically on both artificial and real landscapes.

Results

While maintaining the mathematical properties of fragmentation and connectivity indices, our method could distinguish landscapes with identical patch size distributions but different spatial configurations. The mean detour index had a different response than geometrical indices. This result indicates that, at the patch level, topological complexity can exhibit different patterns from geometrical complexity.

Conclusions

Measuring intra-patch connectivity with patch size in fragmentation and connectivity indices cannot distinguish landscapes having similar patch sizes distribution but different spatial configurations. This paper introduces a method to distinguish such patterns relying on geometrical and topological indices and shows to which extent it can impact conservation planning.
Coupling UAV and satellite data for tree species identification to map the distribution of Caspian poplar
Authors: Miraki Mojdeh , Sohrabi Hormoz , Fatehi Parviz , Kneubuehler Mathias
Published: February 2024

Context

Mapping the distribution of species, especially those that are endemic and endangered like certain tree species, is a vital step in the effective planning and execution of conservation programs and monitoring efforts. This task gains even more significance as it directly contributes to forest conservation by highlighting the importance of species diversity.

Objectives

Our study objective was to assess the detection accuracy of a specific tree using different remote sensing sources and approaches.

Methods

Initially, individual trees were identified and classified using a canopy height model derived from UAV data. Next, we carried out the classification of satellite data within the Google Earth Engine. Lastly, we scaled the UAV-RGB dataset to match the spatial resolution of Sentinel-2, which was then employed to train random forest models using the multispectral data from Sentinel-2.

Results

For the UAV data, we achieved overall accuracies of 56% for automatically delineated tree crowns and 83% for manually delineated ones. Regarding the second approach using Sentinel-2 data, the classification in the Noor forest yielded an overall accuracy of 74% and a Kappa coefficient of 0.57, while in the Safrabasteh forest, the accuracy was 80% with a Kappa of 0.61. In the third approach, our findings indicate an improvement compared to the second approach, with the overall accuracy and Kappa coefficient of the classification rising to 82% and 0.68, respectively.

Conclusions

In this study, it was found that according to the purpose and available facilities, satellite and UAV data can be successfully used to identify a specific tree species.
Exogenous Substrates Prevent the Decline in the Cellular ATP Content of Primary Rat Astrocytes During Glucose Deprivation
Authors: Harders Antonia Regina , Spellerberg Paul , Dringen Ralf
Published: February 2024

Brain astrocytes are well known for their broad metabolic potential. After glucose deprivation, cultured primary astrocytes maintain a high cellular ATP content for many hours by mobilizing endogenous substrates, but within 24 h the specific cellular ATP content was lowered to around 30% of the initial ATP content. This experimental setting was used to test for the potential of various exogenous substrates to prevent a loss in cellular ATP in glucose deprived astrocytes. The presence of various extracellular monocarboxylates, purine nucleosides or fatty acids prevented the loss of ATP from glucose-deprived astrocytes. Of the 20 proteinogenic amino acids, only alanine, aspartate, glutamate, glutamine, lysine or proline maintained high ATP levels in starved astrocytes. Among these amino acids, proline was found to be the most potent one to prevent the ATP loss. The astrocytic consumption of proline as well as the ability of proline to maintain a high cellular ATP content was prevented in a concentration-dependent manner by the proline dehydrogenase inhibitor tetrahydro-2-furoic acid. Analysis of the concentration-dependencies obtained by considering the different carbon content of the applied substrates revealed that fatty acids and proline are more potent than glucose and monocarboxylates as exogenous substrates to prevent ATP depletion in glucose-deprived astrocytes. These data demonstrate that cultured astrocytes can utilise a wide range of extracellular substrates as fuels to support mitochondrial ATP regeneration and identify proline as potent exogenous substrate for the energy metabolism of starved astrocytes.
Synthesis of Nano-silica Oxide for Heavy Metal Decontamination from Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Meky Naira , Salama Eslam , Soliman Mohamed F. , Naeem Soheair G. , Ossman Mona , Elsayed Mahmoud
Published: February 2024

In the current study, nano-silica oxide (nano-SiO2) was fabricated via the sol-gel technique. Then, the prepared nano-SiO2 was characterized using X-ray diffractometer (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) specific surface area analysis. Furthermore, the fabricated nano-SiO2 was applied for the adsorption of lead Pb (II) and chromium Cr (VI) from aqueous solutions. Additionally, the influence of different operating factors such as contact time (0–180 min), initial pH (1–11), nano-SiO2 dose (0.1–8 g L−1), initial metal ion concentration (5–100 mg L−1), and the temperature (30–85 °C) was investigated. The nano-SiO2 doses of 0.5 and 1 g L−1 were selected as the optimal adsorbent dose for the removal of Pb (II) and Cr (VI), respectively. These doses achieved a removal efficiency of 82.3% and 78.5% for Pb (II) and Cr (VI), after 60 and 90 min, at initial pH values of 5 and 2, respectively, using 10 mg L−1 initial metal concentration, and at room temperature. Lastly, kinetic and equilibrium studies were competently fitted using the pseudo-second-order and Freundlich models, respectively. Adsorption thermodynamic studies designate the spontaneous and thermodynamic nature of the adsorption process. These results reveal the efficiency of the fabricated nano-SiO2 as an adsorbent for heavy metal removal from aqueous solutions.

Graphical Abstract
Effective RhB Dye Removal Using Sustainable Natural Bioadsorbents Synthesized from Avocado Seed and Skin
Authors: Orozco Sayra , Montiel Esteban , Valencia Jaime Espino , González Roberto Guerra , del Carmen Chávez Parga María , Cortés José Apolinar , Rivero Michel
Published: February 2024

Managing waste generated by the food industry is a pressing environmental challenge, and traditional disposal methods such as landfilling or incineration are no longer viable solutions. However, by recovering and valorizing waste in wastewater treatment, we can address the waste management issue and the energy-intensive nature of conventional treatment methods with processes compatible with renewable energy technologies. In this work, avocado skin and seed are valorized for their application in removing Rhodamine B (RhB) dye. Avocado skin (ASk) and seed (ASe) were recovered and recycled separately to develop natural bioadsorbents. Biomaterials were characterized by XRD, XPS, ICP-MS, ATR-FTIR spectroscopy, TGA, N2 adsorption/desorption, and SEM. The ASk and ASe bioadsorbents were employed to remove RhB at four experimental conditions: pH, RhB concentration, bioadsorbent concentration, and temperature. RhB removal was followed by UV–Vis spectroscopy. The results show that at pH 3, the highest percentages of dye removal are achieved, using ASk and ASe, with 88 and 92% removal, respectively. ASe bioadsorbent is more effective for removing RhB dye, reaching 92% after 4 h of contact with 2 g L−1 of bioadsorbent and at 30 °C. Experimental results better fit a pseudo-second-order kinetic model and the Langmuir adsorption model, with maximum adsorption capacities of 13.1240 and 17.9998 mg g−1 for ASk and ASe, respectively. The results show that natural bioadsorbents are suitable options for environmental remediation.
Body CT examinations in oncologic patients: the impact of subspecialty radiology on radiation exposure in the clinical practice. A quality care study
Authors: Rizzo Stefania , Bellesi Luca , D’Ermo Andrea , Bonomo Luca , D’Ecclesiis Oriana , Magoga Francesco , Presilla Stefano , Spanò Arturo , Minzolini Veronica , Lo Piccolo Francesca , Heinkel Jurgen , Rezzonico Ermidio , Del Grande Maria , Merli Matteo , Del Grande Filippo
Published: February 2024

Purposes

The primary objective of this retrospective study was to assess whether the CT dose delivered to oncologic patients was different in a subspecialty radiology department, compared to a general radiology department. The secondary explorative objective was to assess whether the objective image quality of CT examinations was different in the two settings.

Materials and methods

Chest and abdomen CT scans performed for oncologic indications were selected from a general radiology department and a subspecialty radiology department. By using a radiation dose management platform, we extracted and compared CT dose index (CTDIvol) and dose length product (DLP) both for each phase and for the entire CT exams. For objective image quality evaluation, we calculated the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and the contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) at the level of the liver and of the aorta. A P-value < 0.05 was considered significant.

Results

A total of 7098 CT examinations were included. CTDIvol was evaluated in 12,804 phases; DLP in 10,713 phases and in 6714 examinations. The CTDIvol and DLP overall were significantly lower in the subspecialty radiology department compared to the general radiology department CTDI median (IQR) 5.19 (3.91–7.00) and 5.51 (4.17–7.72), DLP median and IQR of 490.0 (342.4–710.6) and 503.4 (359.9–728.8), p < 0.001 and p = 0.01, respectively. The objective image quality showed no significant difference in the general and subspecialty radiology departments, with median and IQR of 4.03 (2.82–5.51) and 3.84 (3.09–4.94) for SNRLiv (p = 0.58); 4.81 (2.70–7.62) and 4.34 (3.05–6.25) for SNRAo (p = 0.30); 0.83 (0.20–1.89) and 1.00 (0.35–1.57) for CNRLiv (p = 0.99); 2.23 (0.09–3.83) and 1.01 (0.15–2.84) for CNRAo (p = 0.24) with SNRLiv (p = 0.58), SNRAo (p = 0.30), CNRLiv (p = 0.99) and CNRAo (p = 0.24).

Conclusion

In a subspecialty radiology department, CT protocols are optimized compared to a general radiology department leading to lower doses to oncologic patients without significant objective image quality degradation.
Renal function-adapted D-dimer cutoffs in combination with a clinical prediction rule to exclude pulmonary embolism in patients presenting to the emergency department
Authors: Flueckiger Simon , Ravioli Svenja , Buitrago-Tellez Carlos , Haidinger Michael , Lindner Gregor
Published: February 2024

D-dimer levels significantly increase with declining renal function and hence, renal function-adjusted D-dimer cutoffs to rule out pulmonary embolism were suggested. Aim of this study was to "post hoc" validate previously defined renal function-adjusted D-dimer levels to safely rule out pulmonary embolism in patients presenting to the emergency department. In this retrospective, observational analysis, all patients with low to intermediate pre-test probability receiving D-dimer measurement and computed tomography angiography (CTA) to rule out pulmonary embolism between January 2017 and December 2020 were included. Previously defined renal function-adjusted D-dimer cutoffs (1306 µg/l for moderate and 1663 µg/l for severe renal function impairment) were applied to determine sensitivity, specificity, negative and positive predictive values. One thousand, three hundred sixty-nine patients were included of which 229 (17%) were diagnosed with pulmonary embolism. The estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was ≥ 60 ml/min in 1079 (79%), 30–59 ml/min in 266 (19%) and < 30 ml/min in 24 (2%) patients. Only three patients (1.1%) with an eGFR < 60 ml/min had a D-dimer level < 500 µg/l. There was a significant correlation between D-dimer and eGFR (R = − 0.159, p < 0.001). Calculated on the standard D-dimer cutoff value of 500 µg/l, sensitivity of D-dimer testing was 97% for patients with an eGFR ≥ 60 ml/min and 100% for those with 30–60 ml/min, while specificity decreased in patients with renal function impairment. A negative predictive value of 0.99 as a premise to safely rule out pulmonary embolism was achieved by applying a D-dimer cutoff of 1480 µg/l for eGFR 30–59 ml/min and 1351 µg/l for eGFR < 30 ml/min. The findings of this study underline that application of renal function-adapted D-dimer levels in combination with a clinical prediction rule appears feasible to rule out pulmonary embolism. Out of the current dataset, renal function-adjusted D-dimer cutoffs to rule out pulmonary embolism were slightly different compared to previously defined cutoffs. Further studies on a larger scale are needed to validate possible renal function-adjusted D-dimer cutoffs.
Comparison of simple augmentation transformations for a convolutional neural network classifying medical images
Authors: Rainio Oona , Klén Riku
Published: February 2024

Simple image augmentation techniques, such as reflection, rotation, or translation, might work differently for medical images than they do for regular photographs due to the fundamental properties of medical imaging techniques and the bilateral symmetry of the human body. Here, we compare the predictions of a convolutional neural network (CNN) trained for binary classification by using either no augmentation or one of seven usual types augmentation. We have 11 different medical data sets, mostly related to lung infections or cancer, with X-rays, ultrasound (US) images, and images from positron emission tomography (PET) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). According to our results, the augmentation types do not produce statistically significant differences for US and PET data sets, but, for X-rays and MRI images, the best augmentation technique is adding Gaussian blur to images.
Preclinical magnetic resonance imaging and spectroscopy in the fields of radiological technology, medical physics, and radiology
Authors: Saito Shigeyoshi , Ueda Junpei
Published: February 2024

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an indispensable diagnostic imaging technique used in the clinical setting. MRI is advantageous over X-ray and computed tomography (CT), because the contrast provided depends on differences in the density of various organ tissues. In addition to MRI systems in hospitals, more than 100 systems are used for research purposes in Japan in various fields, including basic scientific research, molecular and clinical investigations, and life science research, such as drug discovery, veterinary medicine, and food testing. For many years, additional preclinical imaging studies have been conducted in basic research in the fields of radiation technology, medical physics, and radiology. The preclinical MRI research includes studies using small-bore and whole-body MRI systems. In this review, we focus on the animal study using small-bore MRI systems as “preclinical MRI”. The preclinical MRI can be used to elucidate the pathophysiology of diseases and for translational research. This review will provide an overview of previous preclinical MRI studies such as brain, heart, and liver disease assessments. Also, we provide an overview of the utility of preclinical MRI studies in radiological physics and technology.
Use of pus metagenomic next-generation sequencing for efficient identification of pathogens in patients with sepsis
Authors: Chen Zhendong , Ye Tingting , He Yuxi , Pan Aijun , Mei Qing
Published: February 2024

The positive detection rate of blood metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) was still too low to meet clinical needs, while pus from the site of primary infection may be advantageous for identification of pathogens. To assess the value of mNGS using pus in patients with sepsis, thirty-five samples were collected. Pathogen identification and mixed infection diagnosis obtained by use of mNGS or cultivation methods were compared. Fifty-three aerobic or facultative anaerobes, 59 obligate anaerobes and 7 fungi were identified by the two methods. mNGS increased the accuracy rate of diagnosing aerobic or facultative anaerobic infections from 44.4% to 94.4%; mNGS also increased the sensitivity of diagnosing obligate anaerobic infections from 52.9% to 100.0%; however, mNGS did not show any advantage in terms of fungal infections. Culture and mNGS identified 1 and 24 patients with mixed infection, respectively. For obligate anaerobes, source of microorganisms was analyzed. The odontogenic bacteria all caused empyema (n = 7) or skin and soft tissue infections (n = 5), whereas the gut-derived microbes all caused intra-abdominal infections (n = 7). We also compared the clinical characteristics of non-obligate anaerobic and obligate anaerobic infection groups. The SOFA score [9.0 (7.5, 14.3) vs. 5.0 (3.0, 8.0), P = 0.005], procalcitonin value [4.7 (1.8, 39.9) vs. 2.50 (0.7, 8.0), P = 0.035], the proportion of septic shock (66.7% vs. 35.3%, P = 0.044) and acute liver injury (66.7% vs. 23.5%, P = 0.018) in the non-obligate anaerobic infection group were significantly higher than those in the obligate anaerobic infection group. In patients with sepsis caused by purulent infection, mNGS using pus from the primary lesion may yield more valuable microbiological information.
Virus removal by high-efficiency air (HEPA) filters and filtration capacity enhancement by nanotextiles: a pilot study
Authors: Obitková Daniela , Mráz Milan , Pavlík Emil
Published: February 2024

Portable household air purifiers are widely used devices designed to maintain a high-quality level of indoor air. Portable air purifiers equipped with the high-efficiency air (HEPA) filter served 100 h in a household space occupied by two adults without any symptoms of respiratory tract infection. The main objective of the study was to determine microbial contamination on the HEPA filter and to investigate if the selected nanotextile monolayer made of polyamide 6 (PA6) nanofibers can capture potential microorganisms when installed downstream of the HEPA filter as the final filtration medium. Samples were taken from the inlet and outlet surfaces. Samples from the nanotextile were collected in the same manner as from the HEPA filter. QIAStat DX® 1.0 Analyzer using the Respiratory SARS CoV-2 Panel multiplex PCR detection system was selected for microorganism detection. Adenovirus was detected on the inlet surface of the HEPA filter. The outlet surface of the filter contained no viruses included in the Respiratory SARS CoV-2 Panel portfolio. The nanotextile monolayer was replaced twice during the 100 h of operation, so three pieces were used and all contained coronavirus 229 E. Coronavirus 229 E was then detected in the nasopharynx of one of the members of the household as well. It may be assumed that the selected nanotextile is capable of capturing a virus of a small size.
A novel prognostic model of breast cancer based on cuproptosis-related lncRNAs
Authors: Li Feixiang , Yang Yongyan , Zhang Xuan , Yu Jiafeng , Yu Yonghao
Published: February 2024

Objective

Breast cancer (BC) is a deadly form of malignancy responsible for the death of a large number of women every year. Cuproptosis is a newly discovered form of cell death that may have implications for the prognosis of BC. Long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been shown to be involved in the progression and development of BC. Here within, a novel model capable of predicting the prognosis of patients with BC was established based on cuproptosis-related lncRNAs.

Methods

Data of breast cancer patients was downloaded, including clinical information from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database and lncRNAs related to cuproptosis were isolated. In total, nine lncRNAs related to copper death were obtained by Cox regression model based on Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selector Operation (LASSO) algorithm for model construction. The model was verified by overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS) and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. The differences in immune function, tumor mutation burden (TMB) and tumor immune dysfunction and exclusion (TIDE) between patients with different risk scores were analyzed.

Results

Based on cuproptosis-related lncRNAs, a prognostic model for predicting BC was constructed. Each patient was assigned a risk score based on our model formula. We found that patients with higher risk scores had significantly lower OS and PFS, increased TMB, and higher sensitivity to immunotherapy.

Conclusions

The model established in this study based on cuproptosis-related lncRNAs may be capable of improving the OS of patients with BC.
Earth Observation data, innovation and economic performance: a study of the downstream sector in Italy
Authors: Lupi Veronica , Morretta Valentina , Zirulia Lorenzo
Published: February 2024

The increasing availability of external data in the realm of big data significantly impacts the operations and performance of businesses. In this study, we focus on Earth Observation (EO) technology, which supplies an extensive range of data related to Earth's chemical, biological, physical, and societal aspects. Our primary goal is to understand how the utilisation of EO data affects companies operating in the downstream sector. These enterprises possess the expertise and capabilities to extract valuable insights and information from EO data. We use a rich and innovative dataset representing 74% of the Italian EO downstream sector. The results show that EO data have heterogeneous impacts across downstream firms. Economic performance and innovation are positively correlated only for a subset of firms, especially the ones in the northern regions. Firms in the centre of Italy exploit the spillover of being close to large space infrastructures, but their performance in economic and innovation terms is mixed. The sub-sample in the South of Italy innovates due to EO but performs poorly economically. We discuss the determinants of such discrepancies and suggest policy and managerial implications for the industry's future development.
Evaluation of immune microenvironment in hepatocellular carcinoma: current advances in CT and MRI imaging techniques
Authors: Chenyu Song , Chunxiang Zhou , Lujie Li , Mimi Tang , Jifei Wang , Shi-Ting Feng , Zhi Dong
Published: February 2024

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignant tumors worldwide with a high mortality. Tumor immune microenvironment (TIM) plays an important role in the progress of tumorigenesis, progression, and anti-tumor therapy of HCC. The advent of immunotherapy agents has provided new opportunities and options for HCC patients. The immunotherapeutic efficacy is closely associated with the TIM status of HCC patients, which currently relies on postoperative pathological examination. Preoperative non-invasive evaluation of TIM is of great clinical significance in guiding treatment strategies and predicting the response to immunotherapy. This article summarizes the recent research progress in CT and MRI-based imaging techniques for the preoperative non-invasive assessment of TIM in HCC patients.
Burning questions for fire blight research: I. Genomics and evolution of Erwinia amylovora and analyses of host-pathogen interactions
Authors: Rezzonico Fabio , Emeriewen Ofere Francis , Zeng Quan , Peil Andreas , Smits Theo H.M. , Sundin George W.
Published: February 2024

Fire blight, caused by the bacterial pathogen Erwinia amylovora, continues to be a devastating disease affecting commercial apple and pear plantings in almost all areas of the world, with recent incursions into Korea and China. During the past two decades, significant gains in knowledge of E. amylovora and fire blight disease have been achieved, in topic areas such as genetic and genomic diversity, host-pathogen interactions, host resistance, and disease management. As we look forward to the next two decades and beyond of fire blight research, we summarize the current research knowledge in topics focused on E. amylovora pathogen and population biology and propose research questions that we hope can guide the field forward to gain the necessary understanding that will lead to sustainable management of this disease.
Deconstructing Customer Value Propositions for the Circular Product-as-a-Service Business Model: A Case Study from the Textile Industry
Authors: Petänen Päivi , Sundqvist Henna , Antikainen Maria
Published: February 2024

Offering products as a service is a way to implement circular economy principles in business models and promote sustainability. However, in many markets, the model is still in its infancy in terms of market maturity and lacks customer acceptance. More understanding is needed of how product-as-a-service companies can enhance and reconfigure their competitive position by proposing meaningful customer value. For this purpose, this study focuses on customer value propositions (CVPs) as a strategic management concept in the circular economy. The aim of the study is to outline a deconstruction framework for systematically identifying the strategically manageable components of CVPs in circular product-as-a-service business models. The framework establishes a link between the elements of circular product-as-a-service business models and competitive CVPs. The framework is developed and validated with seven product-as-a-service business cases in the textile and clothing industry context. The results of the study provide insights into how product-as-a-service companies in the textile field aim to differentiate, how they structure customer value by identifying customer benefits and sacrifices, and what kind of resources and capabilities are needed for competing in the circular economy context.
Do people value farmers markets: A spatial hedonic pricing model approach
Authors: Zheng Yanan , Yang Meng , An Henry , Qiu Feng
Published: February 2024

Farmers markets can generate positive externalities by improving food access and negative externalities through pollution. The presence of both may influence people’s willingness to pay (WTP) for living nearby. This study employs spatial hedonic pricing models to estimate the WTP for living near farmers markets in Edmonton, Canada. We find an inverted U-shaped relationship between proximity to a farmers market and property values. Our results suggest that local governments might consider the economic impact of building new or relocating existing farmers markets on residential housing values, alongside the benefits of improved access to high-quality food sources.
On a self-embedding problem for self-similar sets
Authors: XIAO JIAN-CI
Published: February 2024

Let
$K\subset {\mathbb {R}}^d$
be a self-similar set generated by an iterated function system
$\{\varphi _i\}_{i=1}^m$
satisfying the strong separation condition and let f be a contracting similitude with
$f(K)\subseteq K$
. We show that
$f(K)$
is relatively open in K if all
$\varphi _i$
share a common contraction ratio and orthogonal part. We also provide a counterexample when the orthogonal parts are allowed to vary. This partially answers a question of Elekes, Keleti and Máthé [Ergod. Th. & Dynam. Sys.30 (2010), 399–440]. As a byproduct of our argument, when
$d=1$
and K admits two homogeneous generating iterated function systems satisfying the strong separation condition but with contraction ratios of opposite signs, we show that K is symmetric. This partially answers a question of Feng and Wang [Adv. Math.222 (2009), 1964–1981].
Angle of repose of granulated ice: effect of wood ash
Authors: Harris William M. , Murdza Andrii , Schulson Erland M.
Published: February 2024

New experiments have revealed that the addition of a small amount of wood ash doubles the angle of repose of granulated ice at −10°C, but has little effect at −30°C. It is hypothesized that this behavior may be explained in terms of the freezing of water that is formed at the higher temperature through the reaction of salt within the ash.
When to (not) split the infinitive: factors governing patterns of syntactic variation in Twitter-style Philippine English
Authors: GONZALES WILKINSON DANIEL WONG
Published: February 2024

The variability of adverbial placement in the modified infinitive construction (i.e. split infinitives vs. full infinitives with adverbial pre- and post-modification) has been widely discussed in the (American English) literature. Yet a convincing generalized explanation for the variation that simultaneously incorporates language-internal and language-external factors has yet to be found, particularly in English varieties that have not received as much scholarly attention as standardized varieties. This article investigates modified infinitive syntactic variation in Twitter-style Philippine English (PhE) using a 135-million-word Twitter corpus. It adopts a Bayesian approach in conducting a multiple multinomial regression analysis of the said variation, with the help of Deep-Learning-based demographic inference tools. Although the conditioning effects of some factors diverge from patterns discussed in prior work, the results generally show that language-internal (e.g. stress and rhythm, adverb type, adverb length) and language-external factors (i.e. time, age, sex, geography) jointly shape the choice to split the infinitive in this linguistic style of PhE.
„Mach mal Pause – Time out für mich“: Praxisprojekt zur Förderung einer gesunden Pause
Authors: Herbert Maike Magdalena , Fiedler Christine Elvira Gertrud , Gäde Eva
Published: February 2024

Zusammenfassung. Hintergrund: Pausen sind essenziell für die physische und psychische Gesundheit. In Gesundheitsberufen fallen Pausen häufig aus oder werden unterbrochen. Pflegefachpersonen sollten regelmäßig und ungestört ihre Pause wahrnehmen können und alternative Möglichkeiten der Pausenorganisation erleben. Methoden: Es wurde eine Ein-Gruppen-Prä-Post Erhebung mittels Fragebogen durchgeführt. Als Interventionen testeten die Pflegefachpersonen die Pausenmodelle „Feel-Good-Manager“ (t1) und „Bin dann mal weg“ (t2). Eine Nachbesprechung mit dem Stationsteam ergänzte die Erhebung. Ergebnisse: Vor dem Projekt (t0) gab keine Pflegefachperson bei der Frage nach der Zufriedenheit mit der Pause „sehr gut“ oder „gut“ an. Dies ist während des Projekts auf 45,5% (t1) bzw. 22,2% (t2) gestiegen. Keine Pflegefachperson hatte vor den Interventionen das Gefühl nach der Pause „sehr gut“ oder „gut“ erholt zu sein. Dies verbesserte sich auf 54,6% (t1) bzw. 33,3% (t2). Nur 7,1% (t0) gaben an, die Pause „immer“ oder „meistens“ in voller Länge in Anspruch zu nehmen. Dies veränderte sich auf 100% (t1) bzw. 33,3% (t2). Die Anzahl der Pausenunterbrechungen reduzierte sich von 4 (t0) zu 2 (t1) bzw. 0 (t2). Diskussion: Pausenmodelle sind nicht beliebig auf Stationen übertragbar. Es bedarf einer Situationsanalyse und einer situationsgerechten Anpassung. Bei personellen Engpässen oder fehlenden Räumlichkeiten können nicht alle beschriebenen Pausenmodelle getestet werden. Schlussfolgerung: Das beschriebene Projektvorgehen lässt sich auf weitere Stationen übertragen.
Travel Distance to Hospital Is Associated With Self-Harm Hospital Presentation But Not Suicide
Authors: Liang Ya-Lun , Lin Chien-Yu , Gao Yu-Mei , Gunnell David , Hsu Chia-Yueh , Chang Shu-Sen
Published: February 2024

Abstract: Background: Travel distance to hospital emergency departments (EDs) may be a more influential factor in the spatial variation in hospital-presenting self-harm than for suicide deaths. Aims: We investigated the associations of travel distance to the nearest ED with self-harm hospital presentations and suicides in a large city in Taiwan. Method: Data for self-harm and suicide were extracted from Taiwan’s National Suicide Surveillance System (2012–2016). Results: Adjusted analyses using Bayesian hierarchical models showed that a longer travel distance to the nearest hospital ED was associated with lower self-harm hospital presentation rates but not suicide rates. Limitations: This is an ecological study; the area-level associations could not be directly implied at the individual level. Conclusion: Living in remote neighborhoods could be a barrier to seeking medical help after self-harm, and this has implications for suicide, surveillance, prevention and intervention strategies.