bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prediction and comparison of aerodynamic performance and flow control for smooth and wavy tube banks in crossflow at subcritical Reynolds numbers using a 3D RANS approach
Authors: Belharizi Morad , Ladjedel Omar , Yahiaoui Tayeb
Published: February 2024

This paper investigates the effects of introducing wavy cylinders of appropriate wavelength into tube bundles for the passive control of flow-induced vibration. The Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes approach RANS was used to study the turbulent flow characteristics within staggered tube bundles having transverse and longitudinal pitch-to-diameter ratios of 3.8 and 2.1, respectively. Two wavy models are tested with different wavelength-to-mean diameter ratios, namely: Model-A with [Formula: see text] and Model-B with [Formula: see text], and their performances are compared with those of a smooth circular tube bundle Model-C ([Formula: see text]), in a range of subcritical Reynolds numbers [Formula: see text]. Mean velocity and pressure fields as well as aerodynamic coefficients are presented and compared. According to the obtained results, the wavy tube bundle with [Formula: see text] exhibits the best performance, with slightly smaller [Formula: see text] values than the smooth tube bundle. However, results show that the wavy model with [Formula: see text] is clearly the worst with an increase of [Formula: see text] up to 40%. Numerical outcomes also reveal that the interaction of neighboring rows and columns affects the fluctuation of [Formula: see text] values relative to each tube position. Moreover, [Formula: see text] evolutions depend significantly on the variation of Re as well, where drag reduction is more substantial by increasing Re. Thus, wavy-shaped tubes with optimum parameters could be more suitable for flow control by enhancing the secondary flow, turbulence and fluid mixing.
Multiplicity correlation of fast target protons and projectile fragments for the events produced in the interaction of 84Kr nuclei with emulsion nuclei at 1 A GeV
Authors: Singh M. K. , Kumari B.
Published: February 2024

It has become obvious that one crucial aspect in understanding high energy nuclear reactions is the fragmentation of colliding nuclei. The nuclear emulsion is a 4[Formula: see text] detector that makes it simple to identify and quantify the charges of projectile fragments. In this work, we study the multiplicity distribution and angle distributions of single, double charge projectile fragments, fast target protons (gray particle) as well as their correlation for the events produced in the interactions of [Formula: see text] with emulsion nuclei at 1[Formula: see text]A[Formula: see text]GeV. We also study the target-dependent angle distribution of gray particles. The results are compared with other experimental data as per availability. This analysis shows that multiplicity distributions have a remarkable link between the projectile and target fragmentation processes.
Reliability Evaluation of Multi-State Linear Consecutive-k-out-of-n:G Systems and Its Application to Maintenance Problems
Authors: Zhou Lei , Miyamoto Shoichiro , Tamura Yoshinobu , Yamamoto Hisashi
Published: February 2024

In this study, we focus on the reliability evaluation of the linear consecutive-[Formula: see text]-out-of-[Formula: see text]:G system, where the system is working if and only if at least [Formula: see text] consecutive components work. The multiple state of the system is considered including not only the working and failure state, but also the intermediate state approaching failure, and the reliability evaluation is discussed including the system failure probability, the expected number of failed components and the expected time to the considered intermediate state. We also apply these reliability results to the maintenance problems, and discussed the condition-based maintenance for the system which is based on the state of the system, and give the results of the optimal maintenance interval which minimizes the expected cost rate.
Vibration, Buckling and Stability Analyses of Spinning Bi-Directional Functionally Graded Conical Shells
Authors: Chen Xiaochao , Gao Qing , Huang Songbing , Chen Kangni , Wu Yiwan
Published: February 2024

This paper investigates the free vibration, buckling and dynamic stability of spinning bi-directional functional gradient materials (BDFGMs) conical shells. The material properties vary along the thickness and axial direction. The dynamics model is established based on the first-order shear deformation theory and the governing equations and boundary conditions of the conical shell are derived employing Hamilton’s principle. Subsequently, the differential quadrature (DQ) method is employed to discretize the governing equations into an algebraic system of equations for solving and analyzing the free vibration characteristics of the conical shell. The theoretical model’s accuracy and the solution method’s reliability are rigorously verified. The effects of temperature, functional gradient index, and rotation on the vibration characteristics, traveling wave vibration and critical speed of the conical shell in a thermal environment are systematically explored through numerical analysis. The results indicate that both the material gradient index and temperature increase lead to a decrease in the shell’s natural frequency. For the spinning BDFGMs shell, elevated temperature causes the occurrence of trailing wave vibration to advance to the critical speed. Centrifugal force emerges as the primary factor influencing the critical buckling load and unstable region variation of the spinning shell.
U−Pb geochronology and microstructural analysis of apatite within a Proterozoic crustal-scale shear zone, Outer Hebrides, NW Scotland
Authors: Metcalfe Joe H. , Strachan Rob A. , Darling James R. , Fowler Mike , Chapman Glenn , Dunlop Joe
Published: February 2024

U–Pb apatite geochronology is increasingly recognized as a valuable tool for constraining the age of mid-crustal ductile shear zones. The crustal-scale Outer Hebrides Fault Zone (OHFZ) within the Laurentian foreland of the Scottish Caledonides has long been of uncertain age and tectonic significance. Earliest deformation within the OHFZ was associated with top-to-the-NW ductile thrusting that formed a belt of greenschist facies mylonites within host Archean−Paleoproterozoic basement gneisses. Previous estimates for the timing of thrusting vary between
c
. 1600 Ma and
c
. 430 Ma. The mylonitic fabrics are defined by a recrystallized assemblage of quartz + albite/oligoclase + sericite + actinolite + epidote + apatite ± calcite, consistent with deformation temperatures of 400–500°C and within the range of reported closure temperatures for Pb diffusion in apatite. U–Pb (LA−ICP−MS) dating of two texturally distinct apatite grain types within the mylonites has yielded ages mostly in the range
c
. 1100–900 Ma. The OHFZ is therefore interpreted as a Grenville–Sveconorwegian structure that formed during the tripartite collision of Laurentia, Baltica, and Amazonia and the assembly of Rodinia.

Supplementary material
: U–Pb isotopic data (Table S1), trace element data (Table S2) and laser ablation spot images are available at
https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.c.7084925
Combating Islamophobia: Compromise, Community, and Harmony in Mitigating Harmful Online Content
Authors: Rifat Mohammad Rashidujjaman , Asha Ashratuz Zavin , Jadon Shivesh , Yan Xinyi , Guha Shion , Ahmed Syed Ishtiaque
Published: February 2024

Despite significant advances in content moderation within HCI, social computing scholarship in this area remains constrained by secular values and Western interpretations of justice. As a result, current literature often overlooks religious and spiritual sensibilities, as well as communal peacebuilding efforts even when the harms originate from and strongly connected to faith sensitivities, such as Islamophobia. This article presents findings from a design and evaluation study on the reporting and moderation of Islamophobic posts on Twitter (currently known as “X”). By utilizing HCI theories and readily available NLP techniques, we developed an online tool for reporting and moderating Islamophobic tweets. We subsequently conducted usability studies, contextual inquiries, and interviews with 32 participants to assess the tool’s effectiveness in addressing Islamophobic content. Our study revealed that factors such as faith-related knowledge practices, fact-checking, communal leadership, social harmony, and the cultural-religious value of “compromise” significantly influence reactions to Islamophobic posts online. Expanding on these findings and drawing from the literature on conflict resolution in theology, legal studies, and justification, we explore how “Sulha,” a community-driven process for mitigating conflict and restoring communal peace, can cater to faith-based sensibilities in reporting and moderating Islamophobic content. Therefore, this article complements existing content moderation literature by recommending the adaptation of faith sensitivities in the design of computing tools and policies to mitigate Islamophobia and similar faith-related online harms.
A Survey on Cyber Resilience: Key Strategies, Research Challenges, and Future Directions
Authors: Alhidaifi Saleh Mohamed , Asghar Muhammad Rizwan , Ansari Imran Shafique
Published: February 2024

Cyber resilience has become a major concern for both academia and industry due to the increasing number of data breaches caused by the expanding attack surface of existing IT infrastructure. Cyber resilience refers to an organisation’s ability to prepare for, absorb, recover from, and adapt to adverse effects typically caused by cyber-attacks that affect business operations. In this survey, we aim to identify the significant domains of cyber resilience and measure their effectiveness. We have selected these domains based on a literature review of frameworks, strategies, applications, tools, and technologies. We have outlined the cyber resilience requirements for each domain and explored solutions related to each requirement in detail. We have also compared and analysed different studies in each domain to find other ways of enhancing cyber resilience. Furthermore, we have compared cyber resilience frameworks and strategies based on technical requirements for various applications. We have also elaborated on techniques for improving cyber resilience. In the supplementary section, we have presented applications that have implemented cyber resilience. This survey comprehensively compares various popular cyber resilience tools to help researchers, practitioners, and organisations choose the best practices for enhancing cyber resilience. Finally, we have shared key findings, limitations, problems, and future directions.
Fixed confidence community mode estimation
Authors: Pai Meera , Karamchandani Nikhil , Nair Jayakrishnan
Published: February 2024

There are several interesting applications which are based on sequentially sampling individuals from an underlying population. Examples include online cardinality estimation [1-4] where the goal is to approximate the total size of the population and algorithms are typically based on the counting of 'collisions', i.e., instances where the sampled individual was 'seen' before; community exploration [5-7] where the goal is to discover as many distinct entities of interest as possible; and community detection / clustering [8-10] where the underlying population is naturally divided into communities / clusters and the goal is to estimate the true clustering using samples from the population.
Exponential Tail Bounds on Queues: A Confluence of Non- Asymptotic Heavy Traffic and Large Deviations
Authors: Raj Jhunjhunwala Prakirt , Hurtado-Lange Daniela , Theja Maguluri Siva
Published: February 2024

In general, obtaining the exact steady-state distribution of queue lengths is not feasible. Therefore, we focus on establishing bounds for the tail probabilities of queue lengths. We examine queueing systems under Heavy Traffic (HT) conditions and provide exponentially decaying bounds for the probability P(∈q > x), where ∈ is the HT parameter denoting how far the load is from the maximum allowed load. Our bounds are not limited to asymptotic cases and are applicable even for finite values of ∈, and they get sharper as ∈ - 0. Consequently, we derive non-asymptotic convergence rates for the tail probabilities. Furthermore, our results offer bounds on the exponential rate of decay of the tail, given by -1/2 log P(∈q > x) for any finite value of x. These can be interpreted as non-asymptotic versions of Large Deviation (LD) results. To obtain our results, we use an exponential Lyapunov function to bind the moment-generating function of queue lengths and apply Markov's inequality. We demonstrate our approach by presenting tail bounds for a continuous time Join-the-shortest queue (JSQ) system.
Optimal Rate-Matrix Pruning For Heterogeneous Systems
Authors: Zhao Zhisheng , Mukherjee Debankur
Published: February 2024

We consider large-scale load balancing systems where processing time distribution of tasks depend on both task and server types. We analyze the system in the asymptotic regime where the number of task and server types tend to infinity proportionally to each other. In such heterogeneous setting, popular policies like Join Fastest Idle Queue (JFIQ), Join Fastest Shortest Queue (JFSQ) are known to perform poorly and they even shrink the stability region. Moreover, to the best of our knowledge, in this setup, finding a scalable policy with provable performance guarantee has been an open question prior to this work. In this paper, we propose and analyze two asymptotically delay-optimal dynamic load balancing approaches: (a) one that efficiently reserves the processing capacity of each server for "good" tasks and route tasks under the Join Idle Queue policy; and (b) a speed-priority policy that increases the probability of servers processing tasks at a high speed. Introducing a novel analytical framework and using the mean-field method and stochastic coupling arguments, we prove that both policies above achieve asymptotic zero queueing, whereby the probability that a typical task is assigned to an idle server tends to 1 as the system scales.
The Saturated Multiserver Job Queuing Model with Two Classes of Jobs: Exact and Approximate Results
Authors: Olliaro Diletta , Ajmone Marsan Marco , Balsamo Simonetta , Marin Andrea
Published: February 2024

We study a Multiserver Job Queuing Model (MJQM), i.e., a FIFO (First-In-First-Out) queue in which jobs request varying numbers of servers. Our investigation focuses on the saturation analysis of MJQM with two job classes. Jobs in the first class need only one server for an exponentially distributed service time, while jobs in the second class require either all servers or a fraction of them. We provide exact results for the scenario in which jobs in the second class require all servers and have generally distributed service times. Additionally, we develop an accurate approximate model of the MJQM behavior when jobs in the second class require a fraction of the available servers, and have exponentially distributed service times.
Competitive Online Path-Aware Path Selection
Authors: Cao Ying , Yu Siyuan , Tan Xiaoqi , H.K. Tsang Danny
Published: February 2024

This paper studies an online path selection problem and proposes online mechanisms for a network operator to sequentially update link prices. The aim is to incentivize online-arriving agents to join the network and select paths in a manner that maximizes the social welfare, which comprises both system profit and the quality of service experienced by agents. Competitive analysis is adopted to analyze the performance of the proposed online mechanism, whose best achievable competitive ratio is 4. Sufficient and necessary conditions on a competitive mechanism are established. Moreover, the performance limit of the celebrated multiplethe- index pricing scheme is also analyzed.
Electrochemical Determination of Anti-Cancer Drug Pazopanib with High Selectivity and Sensitivity Using Molecularly Imprinted Polymer-Modified Glassy Carbon Electrode
Authors: Samanci Seyda Nur , Cetinkaya Ahmet , Doufene Nassim , Bounoua Nadia , Kaya S. Irem , Atici Esen Bellur , Ozkan Sibel A.
Published: February 2024

Pazopanib (PZB) is a multiple kinase inhibitor used for the treatment of advanced renal cell carcinoma and soft tissue sarcoma. This work focuses on achieving high selectivity and sensitivity for the determination of PZB using a molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP)-based electrochemical sensor. The MIP-based sensor was fabricated by thermal polymerization (TP) directly on a glassy carbon electrode (GCE). The electrochemical response of the 4-ABA/PZB@MIP/GCE sensor was investigated using differential pulse voltammetry (DPV). The characterization of the sensor in terms of morphology and electrochemistry was performed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), cyclic voltammetry (CV), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The 4-ABA/PZB@MIP/GCE sensor exhibited a linear response ranging from 1.0 × 10–13 M to 1.0 × 10–12 M with a limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantification (LOQ) of 1.04 × 10–14 M and 3.48 × 10–14 M, respectively. The applicability of the sensor was evaluated by determining commercial samples of human serum and tablets, and good recoveries were obtained. The results showed that the sensor could identify PZB, compared to structurally analogous drugs such as axitinib, nilotinib, and erlotinib. The interfering substances commonly found in biological fluids were investigated. Finally, the sensor design was validated using a non-imprinted polymer-based GCE.
Electrochemical Sensor for Therapeutic Monitoring of Ganciclovir in Spiked Plasma Samples Using a Carbon Paste Electrode Modified with CuO nanoparticles
Authors: Hesham Nada , Mahmoud Amr M. , Hegazy Maha A. , Wagdy Hebatallah A.
Published: February 2024

Ganciclovir is an antiviral drug that is mainly used in treating viral infections like cytomegalovirus and many other infections. An electrochemical method was developed for the determination of ganciclovir in presence of warfarin. Differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) was applied using a carbon paste electrode modified with copper oxide nanoparticles for the quantification of ganciclovir. The quantification was carried out in Britton Robinson buffer pH 2.5 with scanning potential ranging from 0.0 V to 1.5 V and scan rate 0.0125 V s−1. The method was validated as per ICH guidelines and the method was found to be linear over two ranges: 1.0 × 10−6 M–8.0 × 10−6 M and 1.0 × 10−5 M–8.0 × 10−5 M. Finally, the method was successfully applied for determination of ganciclovir in spiked human plasma samples which makes it a promising tool for easy and direct future therapeutic drug monitoring of ganciclovir in clinical settings. The green analytical procedure index (GAPI) and the Eco-scale tools were applied for assessing the greenness of the method and it was found to be green.
Investigation of Ionomer and Catalyst (Co3O4, Mn3O4, or MnO2) Interactions Using a Polyethylene Midblock Copolymer in Anion Exchange Water Electrolyzers to Understand Performance and Durability
Authors: Kim ChulOong , Salgado Marco J. , Hawks Jordan L. , Creel Jack W. , Dunn Kevin C. , Beiler Kaylee J. , Wu Ivy , Kuo Mei-Chen , Herring Andrew M.
Published: February 2024

An anion exchange membrane water electrolyzer (AEMWE) was studied with three electrocatalysts (Co3O4, Mn2O3, MnO2) for the oxygen evolution reactions at 50 °C in 1 M K2CO3(aq). We employ an optimized robust high performance polymer based on a polyethylene mid-block copolymer, poly(vinylbenzyl-N‑methylpiperidinium carbonate)‑b‑polyethylene‑b‑poly(vinylbenzyl-N‑methylpiperidinium carbonate) as the AEM and the anode ionomer. The cathode utilized a high loading of Pt/C, 1 mg cm−2, to minimize contributions to the kinetics. We tested three catalyst loadings (0.5, 2.5, and 4.5 mg cm−2) with a fixed ionomer loading of 0.5 mg cm−2 to assess ionomer-catalyst interactions. The best-performing catalyst loadings were investigated in a 100 h durability test at 750 mA cm−2. The 2.5 mg cm−2 MnO2 catalyst displayed superior performance, with 2.40 ± 0.02 V at 1 A cm−2. In the 100 h durability test, the Mn2O3 catalyst showed a degradation rate of +269 ± 15 μV h−1, whereas Co3O4 and MnO2 showed −800 ± 157 μV h−1, −114 ± 15 μV h−1, respectively with no membrane thinning indicating a gradual improvement. The MnO2 electrode was further investigated in a 500 h test was conducted, revealing a voltage change rate of −21 μV h−1 for 24–375 h. Pre and post-test FTIR mapping revealed evolution of micrometer-sized morphology corresponding to templating by the Ni-foam electrode.
Anticancer Efficacy and Folic Acid Biosensing using poly (3, 4-ethylene dioxythiophene)- Cadmium oxide Composite Platform
Authors: Thivya P. , Imran K. , Thenrajan Thatchanamoorthy , Ramya R. , Venkateswara Raju Chikkili , Venkataprasad Gajapaneni , Kumar P. , Wilson Jeyaraj
Published: February 2024

Nowadays, monitoring vitamins is essential as they play a significant role in human metabolisms. Among them, Folic acid (FA), one type of vitamin B, is responsible for various functions, including new red blood cells, synthesis, repair of DNA, enough production during pregnancy. So, the detection of FA is crucial, and hence in this study, we report poly (3, 4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) and cadmium oxide (CdO) (PEDOT-CdO) composite for the effective sensing of FA. The PEDOT nanospheres were prepared by the wet chemical method, and CdO nanorods were synthesized using the hydrothermal technique. The sulfur groups in PEDOT connected with Cd2+ ions in CdO nanoparticles enriched their electrostatic interaction developing a robust and straightforward electrochemical FA sensor. The as-prepared PEDOT-CdO biosensor exhibited excellent sensing results towards selective determination of FA in the linear range of 40 nM-1 mM with a lower detection limit of 8.4 nM. In addition, the investigation of cytotoxic nature against human breast cancer cell lines (MCF-7) reveals that, the reported composite induces apoptotic cell death and can be used as an anticancer agent. The proposed biosensor can be used for device fabrication in sensor applications as well as a vector for targeted drug delivery for cancer cell diagnosis.
Electrochemical Reduction of CO2: A Common Acetyl Path to Ethylene, Ethanol or Acetate
Authors: Dauda Monsuru , Hendershot John , Bello Mustapha , Park Junghyun , Loaiza Orduz Alvaro , Lombardo Nicholas , Kizilkaya Orhan , Sprunger Phillip , Engler Anthony , Plaisance Craig , Flake John
Published: February 2024

Ethylene is well known as the primary product of CO2 reduction at Cu electrocatalysts using zero-gap membrane electrode assembly cells with gas diffusion cathodes. Other types of Cu electrocatalysts including oxide-derived Cu, CuSn and CuSe yield relatively more C2 oxygenates; however, the mechanisms for C2 product selectivity are not well established. This work considers selectivity trends of Cu-P0.065, Cu-Sn0.03, and Cu2Se electrocatalysts made using a standard one pot synthesis method. Results show that Cu-P0.065 electrocatalysts (Cu
δ+ = 0.13) retain ethylene as a primary product with relatively higher Faradaic efficiencies (FE = 43% at 350 mA cm−2) than undoped Cu electrocatalysts (FE = 31% at 350 mA cm−2) at the same current density. The primary CO2 reduction product at Cu-Sn0.03 (Cu
δ+ = 0.27) electrocatalysts shifts to ethanol (FE = 48% at 350 mA cm−2) while CO2 reduction at Cu2Se (Cu
δ+ = 0.47) electrocatalysts favor acetate production (FE = 40% at 350 mA cm−2). Based on these results, we propose a common acetyl intermediate and a mechanism for selective formation of ethylene, ethanol or acetate based on the degree of partial positive charge (δ

+
) of Cu reaction sites.
Vascular adaptation to exercise: a systematic review and audit of female representation
Authors: Thompson Sarah L. , Brade Carly J. , Henley-Martin Sarah R. , Naylor Louise H. , Spence Angela L.
Published: February 2024

Biological sex is a salient factor in exercise-induced vascular adaptation. Although a male bias is apparent in the literature, the methodological quality of available studies in females is not yet known. This systematic review with narrative synthesis aimed to assess available evidence of exercise interventions on endothelial function, measured using flow-mediated dilation, in otherwise healthy individuals and athletes. A standardized audit framework was applied to quantify the representation of female participants. Using a tiered grading system, studies that met best-practice recommendations for conducting physiological research in females were identified. A total of 210 studies in 5,997 participants were included, with 18% classified as athletes. The primary exercise mode and duration were aerobic (49%) and acute (61%), respectively. Despite 53% of studies ( n = 111) including at least one female, female participants accounted for only 39% of the total study population but 49% of the athlete population. Majority (49%) of studies in females were conducted in premenopausal participants. No studies in naturally menstruating, hormonal contraceptive-users or in participants experiencing menstrual irregularities met all best-practice recommendations. Very few studies (∼5%) achieved best-practice methodological guidelines for studying females and those that did were limited to menopause and pregnant cohorts. In addition to the underrepresentation of female participants in exercise-induced vascular adaptation research, there remains insufficient high-quality evidence with acceptable methodological control of ovarian hormones. To improve the overall methodological quality of evidence, adequate detail regarding menstrual status should be prioritized when including females in vascular and exercise research contexts.
Identification of a Novel NLRP12 Frameshift Mutation (Val730Glyfs∗41) by Whole-Exome Sequencing in Patients with Crohn’s Disease
Authors: Chen Jintong , Huang Yanni , Chen Huaning , Yang Qinyu , Zheng Weiwei , Lin Yanjun , Xue Mengli , Wang Chengdang
Published: February 2024

NLRP12 encodes the nucleotide-binding leucine-rich repeat-containing receptor 12 protein and has been linked to familial cold autoinflammatory syndrome 2 (FCAS2). Previous studies have reported that NLRP12 protein can dampen inflammatory responses in DSS-induced mice colitis. To date, only four alterations in the NLRP12 gene have been associated with Crohn’s disease (CD). Here, we reported a novel heterozygous NLRP12 frameshift mutation (c.2188dupG, p.Val730Glyfs∗41) identified by whole-exome sequencing in the proband with CD. The Sanger sequencing confirmed that his sister and father also carried this NLRP12 mutation, which cosegregated well with the CD phenotype. In silico analysis predicted this mutation to be disease-causing. Patients heterozygous for this mutation exhibited decreased NLRP12 protein levels in the peripheral blood and colon. Functional assays showed that mutant NLRP12 plasmid-transfected HEK293T cells exhibited significantly lower NLRP12 mRNA and protein levels than wild-type plasmid-transfected cells. The nonsense-mediated decay inhibitor NMDI14 significantly increased NLRP12 mRNA and protein levels in mutant plasmid-transfected cells. Overall, our results demonstrated that this heterozygous NLRP12 mutation (c.2188dupG) resulted in decreased NLRP12 expression, which might contribute to the mechanism underlying CD.
Analysis of Migratory Catfish Production from Artisanal Fishing in the Middle Madeira Sub-Basin Using New Monitoring Methods, Southwestern Amazon
Authors: Lourenço Igor Hister , Pelegrini Larissa Sbeghen , Nahum Victoria Judith Isaac , dos Anjos Marcelo Rodrigues
Published: February 2024

Studies on the production of Pimelodidae catfish in the Amazon are generally carried out in large fishing centers. However, the data referring to small-scale fisheries have gaps that can represent a risk to the activity. This study evaluated the volume produced and the revenue obtained from migratory catfish of the Pimelodidae family of commercial interest landed in Humaitá, Amazonas, Brazil, from May 2018 to April 2019. Daily monitoring was carried out with the Z-31 Fishermen’s Colony through questionnaires to fishermen for each vessel docked. The total production was 6013.93 kg, with 1,689 fish counted and 13 species. A total of 186 landings by 122 fishermen in 24 fishing sites characterized as rivers, lakes, and “igarapés” were evaluated. The average selling price was R$5.57/kg, and the highest volumes were obtained from July to September, mainly with gillnets, where the “Surubim” Pseudoplatystoma punticfer had the highest volume and revenue. Low productivity was verified in most localities, characterizing the fishing as artisanal. The lack of adequate conditions for storing and transporting fish, the local hydrological variations, and the presence of hydroelectric plants on the Madeira River are major factors limiting the fishing expansion in southern Amazonas.
Clear Aligners and Miniscrews in a Scissor Bite Adult Treatment
Authors: Pinho Teresa , Rocha Duarte , Gonçalves Sara , Martins Maria Luís
Published: February 2024

Scissor bite does not correct spontaneously. It gradually worsens by overeruption, negatively affecting masticatory function. It is intended with this manuscript to evaluate the different treatment strategies to correct this malocclusion in adult patients, exploring treatment with clear aligners, bite ramps, and MS (miniscrews), especially in this case of a patient with unilateral right scissor bite, with high dental compensation in the three planes of space, asymmetrical sagittal dental position, overeruption on the scissor bite condition, and a high mandibular arch constriction and maxillary expansion. A comprehensive literature research was performed from 2002 until March 2023. PubMed and BVS databases were used, with the following keywords: “scissor bite OR brodie bite” AND “malocclusion” AND “treatment OR correction OR therapeutics”. Since correcting skeletal asymmetries after the growth completion is challenging, adult patient cases often involve a combined orthodontic‐surgical approach. In the present clinical case, the severe limitations to decompensating tooth positions for a surgical treatment, with the necessity to perform lower asymmetric extraction and a must longer orthodontic treatment, were the major reasons to avoid the surgical approach, after the scissor bite correction. In spite of this, the efficiency of the clear aligners and auxiliaries like bite ramps, MS, and elastics in successfully correcting a complex scissor bite in an adult patient was demonstrated, with significant esthetic and functional commitment, demonstrated by the case reliability PAR (peer assessment rating) index.
A Deep Learning System for Detecting Cardiomegaly Disease Based on CXR Image
Authors: Sorour Shaymaa E. , Wafa Abeer A. , Abohany Amr A. , Hussien Reda M.
Published: February 2024

The potential of technology to revolutionize healthcare is exemplified by the synergy between artificial intelligence (AI) and early detection of cardiomegaly, demonstrating the power of proactive intervention in cardiovascular health. This paper presents an innovative approach that leverages advanced AI algorithms, specifically deep learning (DL) technology, for the early detection of cardiomegaly. The methodology consists of five key steps, including data collection, image preprocessing, data augmentation, feature extraction, and classification. Utilizing chest X-ray (CXR) images from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the study applies rigorous image preprocessing operations, including color transformation and normalization. To enhance model generalization, data augmentation is employed, paving the way for two distinct DL models, a convolutional neural network (CNN) developed from scratch and a pretrained residual network with 50 layers (ResNet50), and adapted to the problem domain. Both models are systematically evaluated with five optimizers, revealing the AdaMax optimizer’s superiority for the CNN model and AdaGrad’s efficacy for the modified ResNet50. The proposed CNN with AdaMax achieves an impressive 99.91% accuracy, outperforming recent techniques in precision, recall, and F1−score. This research underscores the transformative potential of AI in cardiovascular health diagnostics, emphasizing the significance of timely intervention.
Revisiting the Serviceability of Long‐Span Bridges under Vortex‐Induced Vibrations Based on Human Body Vibration
Authors: Qin Jingxi , Zhu Jin , Li Han , Xiong Ziluo , Li Yongle
Published: February 2024

Vortex‐induced vibrations (VIVs) have been frequently observed on long‐span bridges (LSBs) in recent years. Unlike other destructive aerodynamic phenomena of LSBs, VIVs are self‐limited in amplitude, primarily affecting the serviceability of LSBs through unpleasant users’ feelings characterized by human body vibration. Most existing studies discussed this issue based on a popular human body vibration measure, the human comfort index (HCI) in ISO 2631‐1. However, the HCI is primarily concerned with vibration above 0.5 Hz, which might be unsuitable for disclosing the influence of VIV because of the low‐frequency features of LSBs’ VIVs. To address this limitation, this study advocates using the motion sickness index (MSI) to revisit the serviceability of LSBs experiencing VIVs based on an innovative wind‐traffic‐bridge simulation platform. Different from current studies exclusively focusing on vehicle riders, this paper additionally incorporates a vibration model for standing persons to understand the feelings of the pedestrians on the bridge. On this basis, the influence of VIV and traffic load is comprehensively examined. The results indicate that the HCI is inappropriate for exploring the serviceability of LSBs under VIVs regarding users’ feelings, but the MSI is a good alternative. Moreover, the increasing traffic load can obviously mitigate the adverse effect of VIVs on the bridge’s serviceability, which may be utilized to control VIVs of LSBs in real‐world engineering practice.
The Oxidative Status and Na+/K+-ATPase Activity in Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: A Case Control Study
Authors: Mohammadi Amir Hossein , Balandeh Ebrahim , Hasani Jila , Karimian Mohammad , Arabshahi Vajiheh , Pourfarzam Morteza , Bahmani Fereshteh , Namazi Gholamreza
Published: February 2024

Background. Oxidative stress is involved in pathogenesis of some psychiatric disorders. To examine the role of oxidative stress in the etiopathogenesis of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), we aimed to determine oxidative stress indices, including malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in serum and red blood cells (RBC) membrane, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), serum glutathione (GSH) levels, serum antioxidant vitamins (A and E), and Na+/K+-ATPase activity, in patients with the mentioned disorder vs. healthy controls. Method. 39 OCD patients diagnosed based on Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-V) and 39 volunteer healthy subjects were included in this study. MDA levels in serum and RBC membrane were measured using fluorometric method. Serum TAC level, serum GSH level, and Na+/K+-ATPase activity were also measured using spectrophotometric methods. Serum levels of vitamins were calculated by reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC). Result. There was a significantly higher MDA level in serum (p<0.0001) and RBC membrane (p=0.002) of OCD patients compared with those in controls. A significant reduction in vitamin A (p=0.001) and vitamin E (p=0.024) levels was found in OCD patients vs. controls. There was significantly lower activity of erythrocyte membrane Na+/K+-ATPase in RBC membrane of OCD patients vs. controls (p<0.0001). Conclusion. Our findings indicate significantly higher levels MDA in both serum and RBC membrane, lower levels of serum vitamins A and E, and lower activity of membrane Na+/K+-ATPase in OCD patients compared to controls. These suggest an imbalance between oxidant and antioxidant factors in OCD patients that might play a fundamental role in the etiopathogenesis of OCD.
Postweaning Social Isolation Alters Puberty Onset by Suppressing Electrical Activity of Arcuate Kisspeptin Neurons
Authors: Agus Sami , Yavuz Yavuz , Atasoy Deniz , Yilmaz Bayram
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Postweaning social isolation (PWSI) in rodents is an advanced psychosocial stress model in early life. Some psychosocial stress, such as restrain and isolation, disrupts reproductive physiology in young and adult periods. Mechanisms of early-life stress effects on central regulation of reproduction need to be elucidated. We have investigated the effects of PWSI on function of arcuate kisspeptin (ARCKISS1) neurons by using electrophysiological techniques combining with monitoring of puberty onset and estrous cycle in male and female Kiss1-Cre mice. Methods: Female mice were monitored for puberty onset with vaginal opening examination during social isolation. After isolation, the estrous cycle of female mice was monitored with vaginal cytology. Anxiety-like behavior of mice was determined by an elevated plus maze test. Effects of PWSI on electrophysiology of ARCKISS1 neurons were investigated by the patch clamp method after intracranial injection of AAV-GFP virus into arcuate nucleus of Kiss1-Cre mice after the isolation period. Results: We found that both male and female isolated mice showed anxiety-like behavior. PWSI caused delay in vaginal opening and extension in estrous cycle length. Spontaneous-firing rates of ARCKISS1 neurons were significantly lower in the isolated male and female mice. The peak amplitude of inhibitory postsynaptic currents to ARCKISS1 neurons was higher in the isolated mice, while frequency of excitatory postsynaptic currents was higher in group-housed mice. Conclusion: These findings demonstrate that PWSI alters pre- and postpubertal reproductive physiology through metabolic and electrophysiological pathways.
Clinical Utility of Whole-Genome Analysis as One-for-All Test for Breast Cancer: A Case Series
Authors: Shin Kabsoo , Kim Ryul , Park Hansol , Lee Wonchul , Lee Sangmoon , Im Joonoh , Lee Ji Eun , Kim Sung Hun , Connolly-Strong Erin , Ju Young Seok , Oh Brian Baek-Lok , Lee Jeongmin
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Breast cancer exhibits vast genomic diversity, leading to varied clinical manifestations. Integrating molecular subtyping with in-depth genomic profiling is pivotal for informed treatment choices and prognostic insights. Whole-genome clinical analysis provides a holistic view of genome-wide variations, capturing structural changes and affirming tumor suppressor gene loss of heterozygosity. Case Presentation: Here we detail four unique breast cancer cases from Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital, highlighting the actionable benefits and clinical value of whole-genome sequencing (WGS). As an all-in-one test, WGS demonstrates significant clinical utility in these cases, including: (1) detecting homologous recombination deficiency with underlying somatic causal variants (case 1), (2) distinguishing double primary cancer from metastasis (case 2), (3) uncovering microsatellite instability (case 3), and (4) identifying rare germline pathogenic variants in TP53 gene (case 4). Our observations underscore the enhanced clinical relevance of WGS-based testing beyond pinpointing a few driver mutations in conventional targeted panel sequencing platforms. Conclusion: With genomic advancements and decreasing sequencing costs, WGS stands out as a transformative tool in oncology, paving the way for personalized treatment plans rooted in individual genetic blueprints.
Tattoo Pigment Biokinetics in vivo in a 28-Day Porcine Model: Elements Undergo Fast Distribution to Lymph Nodes and Reach Steady State after 7 Days
Authors: Cambiaso-Daniel Janos , Luze Hanna , Meschnark Silvia , Fink Julia , Schreiver Ines , Rappl Thomas , Goessler Walter , Kotzbeck Petra , Kamolz Lars-Peter
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Pigments of tattoo inks may over time migrate to other parts of the body. Inks kinetics are still poorly understood and little studied. The aim of this first study was to investigate the kinetics of tattoo inks pigment in tattooed porcine skin, which is closer to human skin than mouse skin studied in the past. Methods: Three animals were tattooed on the inner thigh and one animal served as untreated control. Skin biopsies were taken on days 7, 14, and 28 after tattooing. Animals were sacrificed on day 28 and homogenate samples of the liver, spleen, kidney, and brain, as well the local lymph nodes were prepared. All samples were analyzed for ink components using inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. The ink itself was characterized by dynamic light scattering and matrix-assisted laser desorption-ionization mass analysis. Results: Titanium (212 g/kg), copper (6 mg/kg), aluminum (1 mg/kg), zirconium (1 mg/kg), and chromium (3 mg/kg) were found in the ink. Significant deposits of ink elements were detected in the tattooed skin when compared to non-tattooed skin from the same animal (mean ± standard deviation: titanium 240 ± 81 mg/kg, copper 95 ± 39 mg/kg, aluminum 115 ± 63 mg/kg, zirconium 23 ± 12 mg/kg, and chromium 1.0 ± 0.2 mg/kg; p < 0.05). Lymph node concentrations of titanium, copper, aluminum, zirconium, and chromium were 42 ± 2 mg/kg, 69 ± 25 mg/kg, 49 ± 18 mg/kg, 0.3 ± 0.2 mg/kg, 0.5 ± 0.2 mg/kg, respectively. Conclusion: Deposits in skin were unchanged from days 7–28 indicating no redistribution or elimination. No significant deposits of ink elements were found in the liver, spleen, kidney, and brain. In conclusion, our findings confirmed distribution of elements from tattoos to regional lymph nodes, but neither to excretory organs, e.g., liver and kidney, nor to spleen and brain. Thus systemic internal organ exposure was not found.
An Unusual Presentation of Periorbital Cysticercosis Mimicking a Dermoid Cyst
Authors: Tomar Gunjan , Pal Sandeep , Patidar Narendra , Gaikwad Himanshu
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Cysticercosis is a parasitic infestation caused by Taenia solium, which is a pork tape worm. Humans are the definitive host, and pigs are the intermediate host. It is more prevalent in low socioeconomic regions with poor hygiene and among populations where undercooked pork is consumed. Case Presentation: We hereby report an uncommon site of cyst lodgment and duration of presentation in a 24-year-old male who presented with a firm, non-tender mass over the superomedial aspect of the right orbital rim, superior to the medial canthal tendon for the last 9 years. Chronic presentation and location of the mass led to the tentative diagnosis of a dermoid cyst. Hence, a CECT orbit was advised to assess the extent and attachment of the mass. Unexpectedly, a cystic lesion with hyperdense nidus, suggestive of cysticercosis, was identified. Histopathology of the excised mass confirmed the diagnosis of cysticercosis. Conclusion: Our case emphasizes the importance of an uncommon site and chronic presentation in cases of cysticercosis.
Identification of Pyroptosis-Related Genes Regulating the Progression of Chronic Rhinosinusitis with Nasal Polyps
Authors: Li Danyang , Zhang Jisheng , Wang Lin , Yan Xudong , Zi Jiajia , Du Xiaoyun , Yu Longgang , Jiang Yan
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) is an immunologic disease, and pyroptosis, an inflammation-based cellular death, strictly modulates CRSwNP pathology, whereas the pyroptosis genes and mechanisms involved in CRSwNP remain unclear. Herein, we explored disease biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets for pyroptosis and immune regulation in CRSwNP using bioinformatics analysis and tissue-based verification. Methods: We retrieved the transcriptional profiles of the high-throughput dataset GSE136825 from the Gene Expression Omnibus database, as well as 170 pyroptosis-related gene expressions from GeneCards. Using R, we identified differentially expressed pyroptosis-related genes and examined the potential biological functions of the aforementioned genes using Gene Ontology, Kyoto Encyclopedia of the Genome pathway, immune infiltration, and protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analyses, thereby generating a list of hub genes. The hub genes were, in turn, verified using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), immunohistochemistry (IHC), and Western blotting (WB). Ultimately, using the StarBase and miRTarBase databases, we estimated the targeting microRNAs and long chain non-coding RNAs. Results: We demonstrated that the identified pyroptosis-related genes primarily modulated bacterial defense activities, as well as inflammasome immune response and assembly. Moreover, they were intricately linked to neutrophil and macrophage infiltration. Furthermore, we validated the tissue contents of hub genes AIM2, NLPR6, and CASP5 and examined potential associations with clinical variables. We also developed a competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) modulatory axis to examine possible underlying molecular mechanisms. Conclusion: We found AIM2, CASP5, and NLRP6, three hub genes for pyroptosis in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps, by biological analysis, experimental validation, and clinical variable validation.
Kepuasan Kerja
Authors: Adi Agung Nugroho , Thoyib Armanu , Fithriana Noora , Ilham Bayu
Published: February 2024

Dampak yang luar biasa dari kepuasan kerja terhadap pencapaian tujuan organisasi. Kepuasan kerja dapat berdampak tidak langsung terhadap bagaimana kenaikan signifikan dari produktivitas organisasi, berdampak luas terhadap kuatnya komitmen karyawan untuk tetap bekerja dan berkontribusi dalam kaitan pencapaian tujuan organisasi. Kepuasan kerja juga berdampak terhadap bagaimana organisasi dapat menangani stres dengan baik. Pengetahuan tentang kepuasan kerja sangat terbatas, terutama yang dinarasikan dalam bentuk Bahasa Indonesia. Agar dapat mengatasi minimnya pengetahuan tentang kepuasan kerja dalam bentuk bahasa Indonesia, maka buku tentang kepuasan kerja sangat dibutuhkan saat ini. Buku yang mengupas tentang kepuasan kerja terutama membahas detail tentang kepuasan kerja dan bagaimana cara pengukuran kepuasan kerja akan menghadirkan wawasan bagi organisasi terutama perusahaan dan dapat juga digunakan bagi Usaha Mikro Kecil Menengah (UMKM) agar dapat mengidentifikasi kepuasan kerja karyawan. Dengan identifikasi ini, diharapkan baik organisasi besar ataupun UMKM dapat meningkatkan produktivitasnya secara signifikan sehingga pada akhirnya akan memperkuat perekonomian di Indonesia.