bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ion Composition of the Beam Plasma Generated by Electron-Beam Evaporation of Metals and Ceramic in the Forevacuum Range of Pressure
Authors: Tyunkov Andrey V. , Oks Efim M. , Yushkov Yury G. , Zolotukhin Denis B.
Published: May 2022

We present the results of measurements of the ion composition of the plasma generated by an accelerated electron beam in the forevacuum pressure range. It has been found that the main contribution to ionization processes comes from beam electrons. It has been shown that, during the electron-beam evaporation of metal or ceramic targets, the number of ions evaporated from the materials in the beam plasma significantly exceeds the number of ions produced from the residual atmosphere and admitted gases. Together, electron beams and beam-produced plasma can catalyze the processes of coatings deposition or modification of the surface layer of the samples.
Yeast Chronological Lifespan: Longevity Regulatory Genes and Mechanisms
Authors: Mirisola Mario G. , Longo Valter D.
Published: May 2022

S. cerevisiae plays a pivotal role as a model system in understanding the biochemistry and molecular biology of mammals including humans. A considerable portion of our knowledge on the genes and pathways involved in cellular growth, resistance to toxic agents, and death has in fact been generated using this model organism. The yeast chronological lifespan (CLS) is a paradigm to study age-dependent damage and longevity. In combination with powerful genetic screening and high throughput technologies, the CLS has allowed the identification of longevity genes and pathways but has also introduced a unicellular “test tube” model system to identify and study macromolecular and cellular damage leading to diseases. In addition, it has played an important role in studying the nutrients and dietary regimens capable of affecting stress resistance and longevity and allowing the characterization of aging regulatory networks. The parallel description of the pro-aging roles of homologs of RAS, S6 kinase, adenylate cyclase, and Tor in yeast and in higher eukaryotes in S. cerevisiae chronological survival studies is valuable to understand human aging and disease. Here we review work on the S. cerevisiae chronological lifespan with a focus on the genes regulating age-dependent macromolecular damage and longevity extension.
Extracellular Vesicular Transmission of miR-423-5p from HepG2 Cells Inhibits the Differentiation of Hepatic Stellate Cells
Authors: Safran Michal , Masoud Rula , Sultan Maya , Tachlytski Irena , Chai Gadot Chofit , Pery Ron , Balint-Lahat Nora , Pappo Orit , Buzaglo Nahum , Ben-Ari Ziv
Published: May 2022

Liver fibrosis (LF) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are the primary source of extracellular matrix in the liver and their activation is a central event in LF development. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are intercellular communication agents, which play important roles in physiological processes in chronic liver diseases. The aim of this study was to examine the crosstalk between hepatocytes and HSCs mediated by hepatocyte-secreted EVs. EVs were purified from primary mouse hepatocytes, HepG2 cell lines, under normal or stressed conditions. The effect of EVs on primary HSCs (pHSCs) differentiation was evaluated by measuring of differentiation markers. In addition, their impact on the carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced fibrosis mouse model was evaluated. The results demonstrated that HepG2-EVs regulate HSC differentiation and that under stress conditions, promoted pHSCs differentiation into the myofibroblast phenotype. The evaluation of miRNA sequences in the HepG2 secreted EVs demonstrated high levels of miR-423-5p. The examination of EV cargo following stress conditions identified a significant reduction of miR-423-5p in HepG2-EVs relative to HepG2-EVs under normal conditions. In addition, pHSCs transfected with miR-423-5p mimic and exhibit lower mRNA levels of alpha smooth muscle actin and Collagen type 1 alpha, and the mRNA expression level of genes targeted the family with sequence-similarity-3 (FAM3) and Monoacylglycerol lipase (Mgll). This study strengthened the hypothesis that EVs are involved in LF and that their cargo changes in stress conditions. In addition, miR-423-5p was shown to be involved in HSCs differentiation and hence, fibrosis development.
Antioxidant Activity of Vitamin C against LPS-Induced Septic Cardiomyopathy by Down-Regulation of Oxidative Stress and Inflammation
Authors: Shati Ayed A. , Zaki Mohamed Samir A. , Alqahtani Youssef A. , Al-Qahtani Saleh M. , Haidara Mohamed A. , Dawood Amal F. , AlMohanna Asmaa M. , El-Bidawy Mahmoud H. , Alaa Eldeen Muhammad , Eid Refaat A.
Published: May 2022

In severe cases of sepsis, endotoxin-induced cardiomyopathy can cause major damage to the heart. This study was designed to see if Vitamin C (Vit C) could prevent lipopolysaccharide-induced heart damage. Eighteen Sprague Dawley male rats (n = 6) were divided into three groups. Rats received 0.5 mL saline by oral gavage in addition to a standard diet (Control group), rats received one dose of endotoxin on day 15 (lipopolysaccharide) (LPS) (6 mg/kg), which produced endotoxemia (Endotoxin group), and rats that received 500 mg/Kg BW of Vit C by oral gavage for 15 days before LPS administration (Endotoxin plus Vit C group). In all groups, blood and tissue samples were collected on day 15, six hours after LPS administration, for histopathological and biochemical analysis. The LPS injection lowered superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels and increased malondialdehyde in tissues compared with a control group. Furthermore, the endotoxin group showed elevated inflammatory biomarkers, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6). Both light and electron microscopy showed that the endotoxic-treated group’s cardiomyocytes, intercalated disks, mitochondria, and endothelial cells were damaged. In endotoxemic rats, Vit C pretreatment significantly reduced MDA levels and restored SOD activity, minimized biomarkers of inflammation, and mitigated cardiomyocyte damage. In conclusion: Vit C protects against endotoxin-induced cardiomyopathy by inhibiting oxidative stress cytokines.
Assessment of Knowledge about Traditional Medicine Reveals Overuse as a Potential Risk for Aggravating COVID-19 and Underlying Diseases in Geriatrics and Women’s Health in the Saudi Population
Authors: Alshammari Khalid Farhan , Alradaddi Fadyah Mohammed , Alshammari Kholah Fares , Almutairi Maha Qasem , Almakhalfi Nuseibah Saleh , Almeshari Raghad Abdullah , Alaezaimee Shamma Mutlaq
Published: May 2022

The devastating COVID-19 pandemic has created several gaps in the management of viral infections, leaving biocontainment and supportive measures as the only resorts for control. As such, there has been a dramatic increase in the use of dietary supplementations and herbal medicine for COVID-19. However, serious concerns regarding the efficacy, safety, and recommended doses of these medicines have been raised. In this study, we aimed to assess the population knowledge about alternative medicine administration for COVID-19 and the associated factors. Using a self-administered cross-sectional survey, we analyzed a total of 2042 valid responses. Most of the included participants were females (69.7%), with an overall mean age of 20.8 ± 11.8 years. Most respondents (62.8%) obtained their knowledge from social media while only 16.6% received knowledge from the health care workers. Half of the participants (50.6%) correctly identified all COVID-19 symptoms, where fever (18.5%) and loss of smell and taste (17.1%) were the most frequent answers. On the use of traditional medicines and supplements for COVID-19, 57.8% did not answer, 23.7% admitted regular use, and 18.5% used sometimes. Family members or friends suggested the use of traditional medicines and dietary supplements to 28.0% of the participants while only 14.7% were advised by a nutritionist, physician, pharmacist, nurse, or a health worker. Moreover, seniors and illiterate portions of society had lower knowledge scores and increased utilization of alternative medicine. Marital status, income, and previous COVID-19 were all significant predictors of the awareness and knowledge score. Thus, this study has identified overuse of unregulated medicinal products in the region, which potentially aggravates COVID-19 or other underlying risks of the disease, making clinical management challenging, particularly in geriatrics and women’s health. Regulation of medicinal products and establishment of educational campaigns about the disease have become imperative.
The Influence of Negative Voltage on Corrosion Behavior of Ceramic Coatings Prepared by MAO Treatment on Steel
Authors: Xiang Mingzhe , Li Tianlu , Zhao Yun , Chen Minfang
Published: May 2022

In this study, the 10B21 steel was treated by micro-arc oxidation (MAO) in the electrolyte consisting of aluminate and phosphate to enhance its corrosion resistance. The effect of negative voltage on corrosion resistance of the MAO coating obtained has mainly been analyzed through their phase composition, microstructure, interfacial bonding strength, salt spray and electrochemical testing. The result indicates that with negative voltages applied to the MAO coating, Fe-Al transition layers arise between coating layer and matrix. Furthermore, different negative voltages bring forward different α-Al2O3 contents contained in the MAO coatings and when it reaches −100 V, the amount of α-Al2O3 appears as the largest. The surface porosity of the coating was also significantly decreased. In addition, the corrosion current density of the coating is only 3.64 μA·cm−2, which is two orders of magnitude lower than that of the substrate. After 72 h of salt spray corrosion, it is found that the coating substrate is less corroded when the negative voltage of 100 V is applied. Therefore, −100 V has been proven as the optimum performance for improving the corrosion resistance of 10B21 steel.
Effect of Intraoral Humidity on Dentin Bond Strength of Two Universal Adhesives: An In Vitro Preliminary Study
Authors: Dabbagh Sarah , Hardan Louis , Kassis Cynthia , Bourgi Rim , Devoto Walter , Zarow Maciej , Jakubowicz Natalia , Ghaleb Maroun , Kharouf Naji , Dabbagh Mouhammad , Arbildo-Vega Heber Isac , Lukomska-Szymanska Monika
Published: May 2022

This study investigated the effect of intraoral humidity on microtensile bond strength (μTBS) to dentin of two universal adhesives applied in self-etch (SE) mode. Forty extracted human molars were selected for this study. Dentin specimens were allocated into four groups, standardized and then bonded with two commercial multimode adhesives, according to two humidity conditions (50% relative humidity (RH) and 90% RH). Following composite resin build-up and 24 h of water storage, the μTBS of the bonded interface was analyzed. The 50% RH was higher for Scotchbond Universal (SBU) than Prime&Bond Universal (PBU), while for 90% RH, SBU had significantly lower values than PBU. With PBU, the mean bond strength was not significantly different between both humidity settings tested (p > 0.05), while for SBU, the mean bond strength was significantly different between both conditions tested (p < 0.05); μTBS was significantly higher for 50% RH than for the other group. Within the limitation of this in vitro study, it can be concluded that: 1) the bonding performance of adhesives systems depends on the humidity settings; 2) increased RH exerts a detrimental effect on the bond strength of 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA)-containing adhesive tested. However, this phenomenon was not observed for HEMA-free adhesive tested; 3) further research in this area is needed to investigate different adhesive systems, temperatures and humidity settings.
Study on the Corrosion Behavior and Mechanism of ER8 Wheel Steel in Neutral NaCl Solution
Authors: He Cheng-Gang , Song Zhi-Bo , Gan Yao-Zhe , Ye Rong-Wei , Zhu Run-Zhi , Liu Ji-Hua , Xu Zhi-Biao
Published: May 2022

This paper analyzed the corrosion behavior and corrosion performance of ER8 wheel steel through a full immersion test. The average corrosion rate of the ER8 wheel specimen in 2.0% NaCl solution shows a gradual increase over the whole corrosion cycle. Although the corrosion rate showed fluctuations at 3.5% and 5.0% concentration before 576 h, the corrosion rate also showed a steady increase after 576 h. The corrosion rates of specimens at different concentrations after 2160 h were over 0.12 mm/year. With increasing immersion times or concentrations of NaCl solution, the coverage area of the corrosion products dominated by iron oxides gradually increased, and the corrosion products on the surface became denser. The corrosion products were primarily γ-FeOOH, α-FeOOH and Fe3O4. As the density of the surface corrosion products increased, cracks and holes appeared on the surface of the rust layers, which made the rust layer unable to protect the substrate from further corrosion. After removing the corrosion products, pitting corrosion appeared on the surface of the substrate. The radius of the capacitive reactance arc gradually decreased with the increasing immersion time. The impedance modulus in the low-frequency region decreases and then increases with increasing NaCl solution concentration, which is the highest in 3.5% NaCl solution. Icorr increased with an increasing Cl− concentration, which was similar to the mechanism of catalytic electrolysis due to Cl−. The specimens with rust layers have worse corrosion resistance when the immersion time is extended. The corrosion product did not protect the substrate but accelerated the corrosion process.
Following the Light: Use of Multimodal Imaging and Fiber Optic Spectroscopy to Evaluate Aging in Daylight Fluorescent Artists’ Pigments
Authors: Beckett Fiona , Shugar Aaron
Published: May 2022

Daylight fluorescent artists’ colors have been well established as fugitive. Upon exposure to light, these vibrant colors can fade and exhibit color shifts. Artwork containing these fluorescent colorants presents complex challenges for art conservators faced with conserving these inherently problematic materials. This paper examined nine fluorescent colorants obtained from Kremer Pigmente, referred to the previous literature and research, and attempted to quantify the visual and photographic observations of fading and color changes. It provides additional information that could be useful in considering conservation documentation and treatment. Fiber optic spectroscopy using ultraviolet and visible light sources was used to measure the spectral shifts of the colorants before and after exposure to light. The fluorescent colors exhibited alterations in intensity coupled with primary peak shifts in the spectrum corresponding to the optical fading and color shifts. Multimodal imaging was executed to analyze the pigments in different regions of the spectrum before and after aging, which has not been documented before with these fluorescent colorants. Imaging in various regions of the spectrum indicated differences in absorption and reflectance between the pigments as captured by a modified camera. The results were compared to recently published research including the identification of the dyes present in the Kremer line of pigments. Multimodal imaging and fiber optic spectroscopy provided valuable information for future documentation and conservation of artworks containing these colorants. Specifically, these non-invasive techniques provide a method to document and identify the spectral changes between the aged and unaged pigment, graph and predict the direction of overall color change, and provide useful data for establishing future conservation treatment protocols.
Improved Optoelectronic Characteristics of Ga-In co-Doped ZnO UV Photodetectors by Asymmetric Metal Contact Structure
Authors: Tsay Chien-Yie , Tsai Hsuan-Meng , Chen Yun-Chi
Published: May 2022

Transparent Ga and In co-doped ZnO (ZnO:Ga-In) semiconductor thin films were deposited on Corning glass substrates by the sol-gel spin-coating process. The ZnO:Ga-In thin films were used as the sensing layer of metal–semiconductor–metal (MSM)-type ultraviolet (UV) photodetectors (PDs). In this study, the optoelectronic characteristics of ZnO:Ga-In MSM PDs with symmetrical interdigital electrodes (Al–Al) and asymmetrical interdigital electrodes (Al–Au) were compared. The as-prepared ZnO:Ga-In thin films were polycrystalline, and they had a single-phase hexagonal wurtzite structure and high transparency (~88.4%) in the visible region. The MSM-PDs with asymmetric electrodes had significantly reduced dark current (9.6 × 10−5 A at 5 V) according to the current-voltage (I-V) characteristics and higher photoresponse properties than those of the MSM-PDs with symmetric electrodes, according to the current-time (I-t) characteristics. In addition, the Al–Au devices were self-powered without an applied bias voltage. The photocurrent was 6.0 × 10−5 A; the sensitivity and responsivity were 0.25 and 0.03 mA/W, respectively, under UV illumination.
The Evolution of Our Understanding of Immunoproliferative Small Intestinal Disease (IPSID) over Time
Authors: AlYamany Ruah , Kharfan-Dabaja Mohamed A. , Hamadani Mehdi , Alshaibani Alfadel , Aljurf Mahmoud
Published: May 2022

Immunoproliferative small intestinal disease (IPSID) is an uncommon disease with a higher prevalence in the developing world. IPSID diagnosis relies mainly on a tissue biopsy and a high index of suspicion. Treatment options are variable; however, they mainly include anthracycline-based chemotherapy with or without antibiotics in advanced stages. Because of the paucity of IPSID, our perception of the disease remains narrow, and investigating the optimal lines of therapy and prevention without a complete comprehension of the disease is challenging. In our review, we explore the expansion of knowledge about IPSID, which has been developing over the years, to help increase the detection of IPISD cases and further research the most appropriate lines of therapy and prevention.
HPV Vaccination: An Underused Strategy for the Prevention of Cancer
Authors: Shapiro Gilla
Published: May 2022

Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination prevents cervical, head and neck, and anogenital cancers. However, global HPV vaccine coverage falls short of global targets and has seen unexpected and dramatic declines in some countries. This paper synthesizes the impact of HPV on the global burden of cancer and the potential benefit of HPV vaccination. Approximately 5% of the world’s cancers are specifically attributed to HPV. While the greatest global burden of HPV is cervical cancers in low- and middle-income countries, HPV-associated head and neck cancers are increasing in high-income countries and have surpassed cervical cancer as the primary HPV-associated cancer in some countries. Therefore, it is also critical to improve gender-neutral HPV vaccination. Understanding the modifiable drivers of vaccine acceptance and uptake is important for increasing HPV vaccination. The Behavioural and Social Drivers of Vaccination framework is broadly applied to identify key factors associated with HPV vaccination including domains concerning practical issues, motivation, social processes, and thinking and feeling. Among the behavioural strategies available to reduce the incidence and mortality of cancer, increasing HPV vaccination stands out as having unrealized potential to prevent disease, financial cost, and psychological distress. An understanding of the shifting burden of HPV and the factors associated with vaccination can be leveraged to regularly measure these factors, develop interventions to promote vaccine uptake, and improve global HPV vaccine coverage. Future research in diverse contexts is necessary to investigate the barriers and facilitators of global HPV vaccination.
Predictors of the Behavioral Intention to Participate in Saiga Antelope Conservation among Chinese Young Residents
Authors: Yang Tingyu , Druică Elena , Zhang Zhongyi , Hu Yuxuan , Cirella Giuseppe T. , Xie Yi
Published: May 2022

Promoting public participation is a practical move to strengthen wildlife conservation. This study focuses on saiga antelope (Saiga tatarica), an endangered species which has received international concern. Based on an extended version of the Theory of Planned Behavior and a sample of 536 Chinese residents aged 16–40 collected through an online survey, we applied Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling to explore the predictors of the behavioral intention to participate in saiga antelope conservation. The results show that perceived behavioral control is the most influential predictor that contributes to the value of the behavioral intention, followed by injunctive norm, attitude to participation, knowledge of saiga antelope, experience of wildlife conservation, and attitude to saiga antelope, altogether explaining 48.4% of the variance of the behavioral intention. To promote public participation in saiga antelope conservation, strengthening science popularization and broadening the channels of participation are suggested.
Comprehensive Development and Implementation of Good Laboratory Practice for NGS Based Targeted Panel on Solid Tumor FFPE Tissues in Diagnostics
Authors: Chougule Anuradha , Jagtap Vinita , Nikam Ankita , Kale Shrutikaa , Nambiar Kavya , Bagayatkar Priyanka , Chandrani Pratik , Kaushal Rajiv , Noronha Vanita , Patil Vijay , Banavali Shripad , Prabhash Kumar
Published: May 2022

The speed, accuracy, and increasing affordability of next-generation sequencing (NGS) have revolutionized the advent of precision medicine. To date, standardized validation criteria for diagnostic accreditation do not exist due to variability across the multitude of NGS platforms and within NGS processes. In molecular diagnostics, it is necessary to ensure that the primary material of the FFPE sample has good quality and optimum quantity for the analysis, otherwise the laborious and expensive NGS test may result in unreliable information. Therefore, stringent quality control of DNA and RNA before, during, and after library preparation is an essential parameter. Considering the various challenges with the FFPE samples, we aimed to set a benchmark in QC metrics that can be utilized by molecular diagnostic laboratories for successful library preparation and high-quality NGS data output. In total, 144 DNA and 103 RNA samples of various cancer types with a maximum storage of 2 years were processed for 52 gene focus panels. During the making of DNA and RNA libraries, extensive QC check parameters were imposed at different checkpoints. The decision tree approach can be set as a benchmark for FFPE samples and as a guide to establishing a good clinical laboratory practice for targeted NGS panels.
Tissue Fraction Correction and Visual Analysis Increase Diagnostic Sensitivity in Predicting Malignancy of Ground-Glass Nodules on [18F]FDG PET/CT: A Bicenter Retrospective Study
Authors: Song Yun Hye , Moon Jung Won , Kim Yoo Na , Woo Ji Young , Son Hye Joo , Lee Suk Hyun , Hwang Hee Sung
Published: May 2022

We investigated the role of [18F]FDG positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) in evaluating ground-glass nodules (GGNs) by visual analysis and tissue fraction correction. A total of 40 pathologically confirmed ≥1 cm GGNs were evaluated visually and semiquantitatively. [18F]FDG uptake of GGN distinct from background lung activity was considered positive in visual analysis. In semiquantitative analysis, we performed tissue fraction correction for the maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) of GGN. Of the 40 GGNs, 25 (63%) were adenocarcinomas, 9 (23%) were minimally invasive adenocarcinomas (MIAs), and 6 (15%) were adenocarcinomas in situ (AIS). On visual analysis, adenocarcinoma showed the highest positivity rate among the three pathological groups (88%, 44%, and 17%, respectively). Both SUVmax and tissue-fraction–corrected SUVmax (SUVmaxTF) were in the order of adenocarcinoma > MIA > AIS (p = 0.033 and 0.018, respectively). SUVmaxTF was significantly higher than SUVmax before correction (2.4 [1.9–3.0] vs. 1.3 [0.8–1.8], p < 0.001). When using a cutoff value of 2.5, the positivity rate of GGNs was significantly higher in SUVmaxTF than in SUVmax (50% vs. 5%, p < 0.001). The diagnostic sensitivity of [18F]FDG PET/CT in predicting the malignancy of lung GGN was improved by tissue fraction correction and visual analysis.
Modeling and Simulating an Orthodontic System Using Virtual Methods
Authors: Petrescu Stelian-Mihai-Sever , Țuculină Mihaela Jana , Popa Dragoș Laurențiu , Duță Alina , Sălan Alex Ioan , Voinea Georgescu Ruxandra , Diaconu Oana Andreea , Turcu Adina Andreea , Mocanu Horia , Nicola Andreea Gabriela , Dascălu Ionela Teodora
Published: May 2022

Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) is a modern imaging technique that uses X-rays to investigate the structures of the dento-maxillary apparatus and obtain detailed images of those structures. The aim of this study was to determine a functional mathematical model able to evaluate the elastic force intensity on each bracket and tube type element and the ways in which those components act on the orthodontic system being used. To analyze a real orthodontic system, we studied the case of a 13-year-old female patient. To transfer geometric information from tomographic images, we used the InVesalius software. This software can generate three-dimensional reconstructions based on sequences and files in the DICOM format and was purchased from CBCT equipment. We analyzed and processed the geometries of the converted tissues in InVesalius using the Geomagic software. After using the Geomagic software, we exported the resulting model to the SolidWorks software used in computer-aided design. In this software, the model is transformed into a virtual solid. After making the geometric model, we analyzed the model using the Ansys Workbench software, which incorporates finite element analysis techniques. Following the simulations, we obtained result maps, which showed the complete mechanical behavior of the analyzed structures.
NDCN-Brain: An Extensible Dynamic Functional Brain Network Model
Authors: Wang Zhongyang , Xin Junchang , Chen Qi , Wang Zhiqiong , Wang Xinlei
Published: May 2022

As an extension of the static network, the dynamic functional brain network can show continuous changes in the brain’s connections. Then, limited by the length of the fMRI signal, it is difficult to show every instantaneous moment in the construction of a dynamic network and there is a lack of effective prediction of the dynamic changes of the network after the signal ends. In this paper, an extensible dynamic brain function network model is proposed. The model utilizes the ability of extracting and predicting the instantaneous state of the dynamic network of neural dynamics on complex networks (NDCN) and constructs a dynamic network model structure that can provide more than the original signal range. Experimental results show that every snapshot in the network obtained by the proposed method has a usable network structure and that it also has a good classification result in the diagnosis of cognitive impairment diseases.
Effects of Social Distancing on Quality of Life and Emotional-Affective Sphere of Caregivers and Older Patients Hospitalized in Rehabilitation Departments during COVID-19 Quarantine: An Observational Study
Authors: Aprile Irene , Falchini Francesca , Mili Emiliano , Mastrorosa Alessia , Langone Emanuele , Mosca Rita , Larocca Stefano , Lategana Michele , Aiello Loredana , Lorusso Angela , Siotto Mariacristina , Giansanti Daniele , Germanotta Marco
Published: May 2022

During the COVID-19 emergency, institutional social distancing conditions were established, preventing family and caregivers’ access to rehabilitation departments. Our study goal was to assess inpatients’ and caregivers’ anxiety, depression, and Quality of Life (QoL) during the Italian lockdown due to the pandemic. We investigated anxiety, depression, and QoL in 53 patients and 51 caregivers, using the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II), and the Short Form 36 Health Survey (SF36). These questionnaires were given to patients after one (T0) and two months (T1) since the hospitalization. The BAI showed that anxiety was moderate for 7.5% of patients and 23.5% of caregivers, and severe for 35.8% of patients and 17.6% of caregivers. The BDI found moderate depression in 11.3% of patients and 15.7% of caregivers, and severe depression in 34.0% of patients and 9.8% of caregivers. Depression was higher in patients than caregivers, while no differences were detected in anxiety. Compared to normative data, patients’ QoL declined in all eight SF36 dimensions, while caregivers’ QoL declined only in social, emotional, and mental components. Unexpectedly, patients still hospitalized at T1 showed significant improvements in both anxiety and three QoL subscores. These findings emphasize the importance of psychological support for patients and their families.
The Perceived Role of Healthcare Providers and Systems in the Development of Secondary Health Conditions among Adults with Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Meade Michelle A. , Reed Karla , Jarnecke Melinda , Manley Kristian , Krause James S.
Published: May 2022

Individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI), with high healthcare utilization rates and costs, require special attention and tailored care protocols to meet their healthcare needs. This qualitative study collected narrative information from adults with SCI and their family members and/or caregivers to examine the perceived role of healthcare providers and systems in the development and treatment of secondary health conditions (SHCs). After personal information was collected, individuals participated in focus groups which were recorded and transcribed; transcripts were then reviewed, cleaned, and uploaded to NVivo10 software to facilitate the analysis. An initial stage of coding was conducted which identified potential categories and themes; afterwards, the perceived role of healthcare providers in the development and management of secondary health conditions (SHC) was prioritized and transcripts were re-coded. Two overlapping themes emerged: (1) Iatrogenic and nosocomial factors; and (2) Relationships with healthcare providers. Iatrogenic and nosocomial factors had three subthemes: (1) Misdiagnosis; (2) Perceived mistreatment or mistakes made during treatment; and (3) Unintended consequences of medical treatment; while three subthemes were identified for Relationships with healthcare providers: (1) Respect; (2) Knowledge and experience; and (3) Patient Expertise. To improve safety, reduce healthcare costs, and facilitate more favorable perceived outcomes for individuals with SCI, healthcare providers, organizations and systems need to implement principles of high reliability organizations to improve outcomes through the treatment and prevention of SHC.
Bayesian Network Model Averaging Classifiers by Subbagging
Authors: Sugahara Shouta , Aomi Itsuki , Ueno Maomi
Published: May 2022

When applied to classification problems, Bayesian networks are often used to infer a class variable when given feature variables. Earlier reports have described that the classification accuracy of Bayesian network structures achieved by maximizing the marginal likelihood (ML) is lower than that achieved by maximizing the conditional log likelihood (CLL) of a class variable given the feature variables. Nevertheless, because ML has asymptotic consistency, the performance of Bayesian network structures achieved by maximizing ML is not necessarily worse than that achieved by maximizing CLL for large data. However, the error of learning structures by maximizing the ML becomes much larger for small sample sizes. That large error degrades the classification accuracy. As a method to resolve this shortcoming, model averaging has been proposed to marginalize the class variable posterior over all structures. However, the posterior standard error of each structure in the model averaging becomes large as the sample size becomes small; it subsequently degrades the classification accuracy. The main idea of this study is to improve the classification accuracy using subbagging, which is modified bagging using random sampling without replacement, to reduce the posterior standard error of each structure in model averaging. Moreover, to guarantee asymptotic consistency, we use the K-best method with the ML score. The experimentally obtained results demonstrate that our proposed method provides more accurate classification than earlier BNC methods and the other state-of-the-art ensemble methods do.
Recent Trends in AI-Based Intelligent Sensing
Authors: Sharma Abhishek , Sharma Vaidehi , Jaiswal Mohita , Wang Hwang-Cheng , Jayakody Dushantha Nalin K. , Basnayaka Chathuranga M. Wijerathna , Muthanna Ammar
Published: May 2022

In recent years, intelligent sensing has gained significant attention because of its autonomous decision-making ability to solve complex problems. Today, smart sensors complement and enhance the capabilities of human beings and have been widely embraced in numerous application areas. Artificial intelligence (AI) has made astounding growth in domains of natural language processing, machine learning (ML), and computer vision. The methods based on AI enable a computer to learn and monitor activities by sensing the source of information in a real-time environment. The combination of these two technologies provides a promising solution in intelligent sensing. This survey provides a comprehensive summary of recent research on AI-based algorithms for intelligent sensing. This work also presents a comparative analysis of algorithms, models, influential parameters, available datasets, applications and projects in the area of intelligent sensing. Furthermore, we present a taxonomy of AI models along with the cutting edge approaches. Finally, we highlight challenges and open issues, followed by the future research directions pertaining to this exciting and fast-moving field.
Overview of Battery Impedance Modeling Including Detailed State-of-the-Art Cylindrical 18650 Lithium-Ion Battery Cell Comparisons
Authors: Estaller Julian , Kersten Anton , Kuder Manuel , Thiringer Torbjörn , Eckerle Richard , Weyh Thomas
Published: May 2022

Electrical models of battery cells are used in simulations to represent batteries’ behavior in various fields of research and development involving battery cells and systems. Electrical equivalent circuit models, either linear or nonlinear, are commonly used for this purpose and are presented in this article. Various commercially available cylindrical, state-of-the-art lithium-ion battery cells, both protected and unprotected, are considered. Their impedance properties, according to four different equivalent circuit models, are measured using electrochemical impedance spectroscopies. Furthermore, the pricing, impedance, specific energy, and C-rate of the chosen battery cells are compared. For example, it is shown that the energy density of modern 18650 cells can vary from a typical value of 200 to about 260 Wh kg−1, whereas the cell price can deviate by a factor of about 3 to 5. Therefore, as a result, this study presents a concise but comprehensive battery parameter library that should aid battery system designers or power electronic engineers in conducting battery simulations and in selecting appropriate battery cells based on application-specific requirements. In addition, the accuracies and computational efforts of the four equivalent circuit models are compared.
Energy Efficient Communication Design in UAV Enabled WPCN Using Dome Packing Method in Water Distribution System
Authors: Radhakrishnan Varsha , Wu Wenyan
Published: May 2022

The water distribution system has deployed several low-power IoT devices on an uneven surface where battery power is a major concern. Therefore, this paper focuses on using a UAV-enabled wireless powered communication network capable of directing energy to a target location and using it for communication, thereby reducing battery issues. In this paper, a static optimization was applied to find the initial height values using 3D clustering and beamforming method and dynamic optimization using extremum seeking method was applied to find the optimized height. The optimized height values were calculated and Travelling Salesman Problem (TSP) was applied to create the trajectory of the UAV. The overall energy consumption of the UAV was minimized by integrating dynamic optimization and dome packing method, which can find an optimal position and trajectory where the UAV will be hovering to direct energy and collect data. Moreover, we also minimized the total flight time of the UAV.
Optimization of Large-Scale Battery Storage Capacity in Conjunction with Photovoltaic Systems for Maximum Self-Sustainability
Authors: Hassan Qusay , Pawela Bartosz , Hasan Ali , Jaszczur Marek
Published: May 2022

The photovoltaic array has gained popularity in the global electrical market. At the same time, battery storage, which is recently being placed by energy consumers alongside photovoltaics, continues to fall in price. Domestic and community loads may be combined utilizing central battery storage and shared solar power through an integrated grid or microgrid system. One of the main targets is maximum self-sustainability and independence of the microgrid system and implemented solution. This research study looks at the energy flows in a single household system that includes solar arrays and battery storage. The analysed household system is represented by a model which uses real load profiles from experimental measurements, local solar distribution, and onsite weather data. The results show that depending on the system configuration, two important parameters, self-consumption and self-sufficiency, can vary significantly. For a properly designed photovoltaic system, the energy self-consumption can be up to 90.19%, while self-sufficiency can be up to 82.55% for analysed cases. As an outcome, a large sample size with a variety of setups is recommended for a thorough examination of self-sustainability. Regional variations can worsen under different weather conditions, different photovoltaic and battery capacities, and different municipal rules.
Optimum Phenological Phases for Deciduous Species Recognition: A Case Study on Quercus acutissima and Robinia pseudoacacia in Mount Tai
Authors: Liu Xiao , Wang Ling , Li Langping , Zhu Xicun , Chang Chunyan , Lan Hengxing
Published: May 2022

Tree species recognition is important for remote–sensing mapping and dynamic monitoring of forest resource. However, the complex phenological cycle poses a challenge to remote–sensing recognition of deciduous tree species in mountainous areas, and the selection of temporal phase is particularly important to improve recognition accuracy. Multispectral images of Ziyuan–1 02C (ZY–1 02C) and Ziyuan–3 (ZY–3) at three phenological phases of spring, autumn and winter (12 May, 29 September and 7 December, recorded as T5–12, T9–29 and T12–7) are selected to optimize sensitive spectral indices. Support vector machine (SVM) and maximum likelihood model (MLE) are constructed to explore the optimum phase of recognizing on Quercus acutissima (O. acutissima ) and Robinia pseudoacacia (R. pseudoacacia) in Mount Tai. The results showed the average spectral reflection intensity of O. acutissima was higher than that of R. pseudoacacia Compared to other phenological periods, the most significant spectral differences between O. acutissima and R. pseudoacacia were found in the spring (12 May), which was identified as the optimum phenological phase. Band 4 is the most sensitive band in all the three phases for the tree species recognition. Moreover, the overall recognition accuracy of deciduous tree species on 12 May reached 89.25%, which was significantly higher than the other two phases. On 12 May, the recognition accuracies of SVM based on sensitive spectral indices of up to 93.59% for O. acutissima and 85.44% for R. pseudoacacia, were higher overall than that of the MLE. Sensitive spectral indices introduced were shown to significantly improve the recognition accuracy for tree species over a single sensitive band. The study is expected to facilitate the precise recognition and forestry management on Mount Tai.
Estimation of Postfire Reforestation with SAR Polarimetry and NDVI Time Series
Authors: Bondur Valery , Chimitdorzhiev Tumen , Kirbizhekova Irina , Dmitriev Aleksey
Published: May 2022

This communication is devoted to the methodology of remote complex analysis of forest restoration after strong wildfires. It is proposed to quantify the projective leaf/needles area index by multispectral optical images. The increase in dimensions of trunks and branches commensurate with a radar wavelength of 24 cm is estimated using radar polarimetric data. It is shown that the growth’s potential of aboveground biomass in different spots of test site ranges from 35 to 70% in the case under consideration. Such a new approach will make it possible to further consider more accurately the role of boreal forests as one of the largest carbon stocks.
Determination of Phenolic Compounds in Blue Corn Flour (Zea mays L.) Produced and/or Metabolized by Colletotrichum gloeosporioides in a Fermentation Process
Authors: Villarreal-Rodríguez Guadalupe , Escajeda-García Jesús , Amaya-Olivas Nubia , Chávez-Flores David , Neder-Suárez David , Ayala Soto Juan G. , Quintero-Ramos Armando , Ruíz-Anchondo Teresita , Hernández-Ochoa León
Published: May 2022

Phenolic compounds are secondary metabolites produced by plants, and their study has been increased in recent years due to their ability to improve human health. The aim of this work was the determination of phenolic compounds presents in blue corn flour before and after a fermentation process, where different proportions were used of blue corn (Zea mays L.) flour and Czapek Dox culture medium (90 mL of culture medium with 10 g of blue corn flour, 80 mL of culture medium with 20 g of blue corn flour and 70 mL of culture medium with 30 g of blue corn flour) and were fermented at 3 different times (20, 25 and 30 days) with the Colletotrichum gloeosporioides fungus. A determination of the phenolic compounds was carried out with five standard solutions, which were cyanidin 3-glucoside (CYA), pelargonidin 3-glucoside (PEL), chlorogenic acid (CLA), quercetin (QRC) and cinnamic acid (CA). The obtained results showed the presence of CA and PEL. The most abundant phenolic compound in the fermented samples was CLA over the naturally occurring compounds in blue corn, which are CYA and PEL. QRC was the phenolic compound with the lowest concentration in blue corn flour samples fermented with Colletotrichum gloeosporioides.
How Do Fintechs Impact Banks’ Profitability?—An Empirical Study Based on Banks in China
Authors: Lv Shuli , Du Yangran , Liu Yong
Published: May 2022

The rapid development of Fintechs has brought opportunities and challenges to the profitability of banks. In this paper, we theoretically expound how Fintechs impact on banks’ profitability, then we establish the Error Correction Model (ECM) and combine this with the Granger causal relation test based on the data of the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC) in 2011–2020. The research results show the following findings: (1) banks’ profitability (ROE) has a cooperative relationship with the development of Fintechs (FTI), banks’ assets (TA), the profitability of interest-bearing assets (NIM), credit risks (NPL) and cost control (CTI). (2) Fintechs have a “U”-shaped impact on the banks’ profitability. In the initial stages, Fintechs impact the business of banks, which reduces the profitability of banks; the advantages of Fintechs gradually increase in the middle and later stages, and the profitability gradually increases. (3) The assets of banks (TA) and the profitability of interest-bearing assets (NIM) change in the same direction as banks’ profitability (ROE), while credit risks (NPL) and cost control (CTI) change in the opposite direction from ROE. (4) The level of bank profitability and the development of Fintechs are Granger causes of each other, the size of the bank’s assets is the Grange reason for the increase in profitability and the increase in profitability is the Granger cause for the improvement of NIM and the decline in NPL.
The Effect of Learning Rate on Fractal Image Coding Using Artificial Neural Networks
Authors: Al-Jawfi Rashad A.
Published: May 2022

The amount by which the artificial neural network weights are updated during the training process is called the learning rate. More precisely, the learning rate is an adjustable parameter used in training neural networks in which small values, often in the interval [0, 1], are handled. The learning rate determines how quickly the model updates its weights to adapt to the problem. Smaller learning rates require more training periods due to small changes to the weights per refresh cycle, while larger learning rates lead to faster changes and require fewer training periods. In this paper, the effect of changing the learning rate value in the artificial neural network designed to solve the inverse problem of fractals was studied. Some results were obtained showing the impact of this change, whether when using large values of the learning rate or small values based on the type of fractal shape required to identify the recursive functions that generate it.
A COL5A2 In-Frame Deletion in a Chihuahua with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome
Authors: Kiener Sarah , Chevallier Lucie , Jagannathan Vidhya , Briand Amaury , Cochet-Faivre Noëlle , Reyes-Gomez Edouard , Leeb Tosso
Published: May 2022

Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) is a group of heterogeneous, rare diseases affecting the connective tissues. The main clinical signs of EDS are skin hyperextensibility, joint hypermobility, and skin fragility. Currently, the classification of EDS in humans distinguishes 13 clinical subtypes associated with variants in 20 different genes, reflecting the heterogeneity of this set of diseases. At present, variants in three of these genes have also been identified in dogs affected by EDS. The purpose of this study was to characterize the clinical and histopathological phenotype of an EDS-affected Chihuahua and to identify the causative genetic variant for the disease. The clinical examination suggested a diagnosis of classical EDS. Skin histopathology revealed an abnormally thin dermis, which is compatible with classical EDS. Whole-genome sequencing identified a heterozygous de novo 27 bp deletion in the COL5A2 gene, COL5A2:c.3388_3414del. The in-frame deletion is predicted to remove 9 amino acids in the triple-helical region of COL5A2. The molecular analysis and identification of a likely pathogenic variant in COL5A2 confirmed the subtype as a form of classical EDS. This is the first report of a COL5A2-related EDS in a dog.