bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deep Segmentation Techniques for Breast Cancer Diagnosis
Authors: Schutte Storm , Uddin Jia
Published: April 2024

Background: This research goes into in deep learning technologies within the realm of medical imaging, with a specific focus on the detection of anomalies in medical pathology, emphasizing breast cancer. It underscores the critical importance of segmentation techniques in identifying diseases and addresses the challenges of scarce labelled data in Whole Slide Images. Additionally, the paper provides a review, cataloguing 61 deep learning architectures identified during the study. Objectives: The aim of this study is to present and assess a novel quantitative approach utilizing specific deep learning architectures, namely the Feature Pyramid Net-work and the Linknet model, both of which integrate a ResNet34 layer encoder to enhance performance. The paper also seeks to examine the efficiency of a semi-supervised training regimen using a dual model architecture, consisting of ‘Teacher’ and ‘Student’ models, in addressing the issue of limited labelled datasets. Methods: Employing a semi-supervised training methodology, this research enables the ‘Student’ model to learn from the ‘Teacher’ model’s outputs. The study methodically evaluates the models’ stability, accuracy, and segmentation capabilities, employing metrics such as the Dice Coefficient and the Jaccard Index for comprehensive assessment. Results: The investigation reveals that the Linknet model exhibits good performance, achieving an accuracy rate of 94% in the detection of breast cancer tissues utilizing a 21-seed parameter for the initialization of model weights. It further excels in generating annotations for the ‘Student’ model, which then achieves a 91% accuracy with minimal computational demands. Conversely, the Feature Pyramid Network model demonstrates a slightly lower accuracy of 93% in the Teacher model but exhibits improved and more consistent results in the ‘Student’ model, reaching 95% accuracy with a 42-seed parameter. Conclusions: This study underscores the efficacy and potential of the Feature Pyra-mid Network and Linknet models in the domain of medical image analysis, particularly in the detection of breast cancer, and suggests their broader applicability in various medical segmentation tasks related to other pathology disorders. Furthermore, the research enhances the understanding of the pivotal role that deep learning technologies play in advancing diagnostic methods within the field of medical imaging.
Advancing Early Detection of Breast Cancer: A User-Friendly Convolutional Neural Network Automation System
Authors: Dequit Annie , Nafa Fatema
Published: April 2024

Background: Deep learning models have shown potential in improving cancer diagnosis and treatment. This study aimed to develop a convolutional neural network (CNN) model to predict Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC), a common type of breast cancer. Additionally, a user-friendly interface was designed to facilitate the use of the model by healthcare professionals. Methods: The CNN model was trained and tested using a dataset of high-resolution microscopic images derived from 162 whole-mount slide images of breast cancer specimens. These images were meticulously scanned at 40× magnification using a state-of-the-art digital slide scanner to capture detailed information. Each image was then divided into 277,524 patches of 50 × 50 pixels, resulting in a diverse dataset containing 198,738 IDC-negative and 78,786 IDC-positive patches. Results: The model achieved an accuracy of 98.24% in distinguishing between benign and malignant cases, demonstrating its effectiveness in cancer detection. Conclusions: This study suggests that the developed CNN model has promising potential for clinical applications in breast cancer diagnosis and personalized treatment strategies. Our study further emphasizes the importance of accurate and reliable cancer detection methods for timely diagnosis and treatment. This study establishes a foundation for utilizing deep learning models in future cancer treatment research by demonstrating their effectiveness in analyzing large and complex datasets. This approach opens exciting avenues for further research and potentially improves our understanding of cancer and its treatment.
Never Fold to Fold Continuously: A Conundrum in Ubiquitin–Proteasome System (UPS)-Mediated Protein Quality Control (PQC)
Authors: Magnati Stefano , Bracco Enrico
Published: April 2024

In the last few decades, the traditional paradigm of teleonomy, in which the amino acid sequence of a protein is tightly associated with its structure and, in turn, with its function, has been partially undermined. The idea of a protein as a two-state object has been superseded by that of understanding it as a multistate object. Indeed, some proteins, or portions of a protein, display intrinsically disordered regions (IDRs), which means that they lack stable secondary or tertiary structures. While we are aware that IDRs are present in almost half of the total human proteins, we are still quite far away from understanding their contextual-specific functions and figuring out how they mechanistically work. In the present perspective article, we will attempt to summarize the role/s of IDRs in ubiquitin–proteasome system (UPS)-mediated protein quality control (PQC) at different levels, ranging from ubiquitination to protein degradation through the proteasome machinery up to their role in decoding the complex ubiquitin code. Ultimately, we will critically discuss the future challenges we are facing to gain insights into the role of IDRs in regulating UPS-mediated PQC.
Endoscopic-Assisted Microsurgical Meningioma Resection in the Skull Base via Minicraniotomy: Is There a Difference in Radicality and Outcome between Anterior Skull Base and Posterior Fossa?
Authors: Kanczok Thomas , Fischer Gerrit , Senger Sebastian , Linsler Stefan
Published: April 2024

Background: Keyhole-based approaches are being explored for skull base tumor surgery; aiming for reduced complications while maintaining resection success rates. This study evaluates skull base meningiomas resected using an endoscopic-assisted microsurgical keyhole approach, comparing outcomes with standard procedures. Methods: Between 2013 and 2019; 71 out of 89 patients were treated using an endoscopic-assisted microsurgical procedure. A total of 42 meningiomas were localized at the anterior skull base and 29 in the posterior fossa. The surgical techniques and use of an endoscope were analyzed and compared in terms of complications, surgical radicality, outcome, and recurrences in the patients’ follow-up. Results: The two different cohorts yielded similar rates of GTR (anterior skull base: 80% versus posterior fossa: 82%). The complication rate was 31% for the posterior fossa and 16% for the anterior skull base. An endoscope was used in 79% of all cases. Tumor remnants were detected by means of endoscopic visualization in 58.6% of posterior fossa and 33% of anterior skull base meningiomas. The statistical analysis revealed significantly higher benefits from endoscope use in the posterior fossa cohort (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The results revealed that endoscopy was beneficial in both locations. The identification of remnant tumor tissue and the benefit of endoscopy were clearly higher in the posterior fossa. Endoscopic assistance is a very helpful tool for increasing radicality, providing a better anatomical overview during surgery, and better identifying remnant tumor tissue in skull base meningioma surgery.
Dermoscopy as a Tool for Identifying Potentially Metastatic Thin Melanoma: A Clinical–Dermoscopic and Histopathological Case–Control Study
Authors: De Giorgi Vincenzo , Silvestri Flavia , Cecchi Giovanni , Venturi Federico , Zuccaro Biancamaria , Perillo Gabriella , Cosso Federica , Maio Vincenza , Simi Sara , Antonini Pietro , Pillozzi Serena , Antonuzzo Lorenzo , Massi Daniela , Doni Laura
Published: April 2024

Despite being early-stage tumors, thin cutaneous melanomas contribute significantly to mortality and have a rising incidence. A retrospective case–control study was performed to identify clinical–dermoscopic and histopathological variables linked to local and distant metastases in melanomas ≤0.8 mm. Data from 1 January 2000 to 22 June 2022 were analyzed from two Italian skin cancer referral centers. Sixteen patients with ≤0.8 mm melanomas developing metastases were studied compared to controls without metastases over 5 years. Statistical analysis involved Pearson’s chi-squared test or Fisher’s exact test. Of the 1396 cases, 1.1% progressed. The median diagnosis age was 49 (range 28–83), with 56.3% men and 43.7% women. The torso was the primary tumor site (43.7%). Clinically, lesions were pigmented (>10 mm diameter: 73.3%, ≥3 colors: 80%). Dermoscopically, the common features were white patches (73.3%), atypical vascular patterns (66.5%), blue-gray areas (60%) and absent pigment networks (60%). Histopathologically, all cases had adverse features like regression (87.4%), dermal mitoses (50%), a vertical growth phase (62.5%) and ulceration (12.5%). These findings were statistically significant compared to controls (p < 0.05). In ≤0.8 mm melanomas, specific clinical–dermoscopic traits might indicate higher metastatic potential when paired with adverse histopathological features.
FLT3 and IRAK4 Inhibitor Emavusertib in Combination with BH3-Mimetics in the Treatment of Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Seipel Katja , Mandhair Harpreet , Bacher Ulrike , Pabst Thomas
Published: April 2024

Targeting the FLT3 receptor and the IL-1R associated kinase 4 as well as the anti-apoptotic proteins MCL1 and BCL2 may be a promising novel approach in the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The FLT3 and IRAK4 inhibitor emavusertib (CA4948), the MCL1 inhibitor S63845, the BCL2 inhibitor venetoclax, and the HSP90 inhibitor PU-H71 were assessed as single agents and in combination for their ability to induce apoptosis and cell death in leukemic cells in vitro. AML cells represented all major morphologic and molecular subtypes, including FLT3-ITD and NPM1 mutant AML cell lines and a variety of patient-derived AML cells. Emavusertib in combination with MCL1 inhibitor S63845 or BCL2 inhibitor venetoclax induced cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in MOLM-13 cells. In primary AML cells, the response to emavusertib was associated with the presence of the FLT3 gene mutation with an allelic ratio >0.5 and the presence of NPM1 gene mutations. S63845 was effective in all tested AML cell lines and primary AML samples. Blast cell percentage was positively associated with the response to CA4948, S63845, and venetoclax, with elevated susceptibility of primary AML with blast cell fraction >80%. Biomarkers of the response to venetoclax included the blast cell percentage and bone marrow infiltration rate, as well as the expression levels of CD11b, CD64, and CD117. Elevated susceptibility to CA4948 combination treatments with S63845 or PU-H71 was associated with FLT3-mutated AML and CD34 < 30%. The combination of CA4948 and BH3-mimetics may be effective in the treatment in FLT3-mutated AML with differential target specificity for MCL1 and BCL2 inhibitors. Moreover, the combination of CA4948 and PU-H71 may be a candidate combination treatment in FLT3-mutated AML.
Effect of Modified Bioceramic Mineral Trioxide Aggregate Cement with Mesoporous Nanoparticles on Human Gingival Fibroblasts
Authors: Kalash Alexandra , Tsamesidis Ioannis , Pouroutzidou Georgia K. , Kontonasaki Eleana , Gkiliopoulos Dimitrios , Arhakis Aristidis , Arapostathis Konstantinos N. , Theocharidou Anna
Published: April 2024

The ion doping of mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) has played an important role in revolutionizing several materials applied in medicine and dentistry by enhancing their antibacterial and regenerative properties. Mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) is a dental material widely used in vital pulp therapies with high success rates. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of the modification of MTA with cerium (Ce)- or calcium (Ca)-doped MSNs on the biological behavior of human gingival fibroblasts (hGFs). MSNs were synthesized via sol–gel, doped with Ce and Ca ions, and mixed with MTA at three ratios each. Powder specimens were characterized using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Biocompatibility was evaluated using a 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5 diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay following hGFs’ incubation in serial dilutions of material eluates. Antioxidant status was evaluated using Cayman’s antioxidant assay after incubating hGFs with material disc specimens, and cell attachment following dehydration fixation was observed through SEM. Material characterization confirmed the presence of mesoporous structures. Biological behavior and antioxidant capacity were enhanced in all cases with a statistically significant increase in CeMTA 50.50. The application of modified MTA with cerium-doped MSNs offers a promising strategy for vital pulp therapies.
PARP-Targeted Radiotheranostics with Auger Electrons: An Updated Overview
Authors: Filippi Luca , Urso Luca , Evangelista Laura
Published: April 2024

Auger electrons (AEs) represent an intriguing topic in the field of radionuclide therapy. They are emitted by several radionuclides commonly used in nuclear medicine (indium-111, iodine-123, iodine-125), allowing for highly localized energy deposition and thus exerting a radiotoxic effect on specific cellular and sub-cellular targets. However, due to their short range in matter, AEs have had limited use in therapeutic applications so far. In recent years, the synthesis of various radiopharmaceuticals capable of binding to the enzyme poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 has reignited interest in this type of therapy, laying the groundwork for a theranostic approach based on radionuclides emitting AEs. The enzyme PARP-1 operates enzymatically in close proximity to DNA that represents the prime target of radionuclide therapies. Following this trend, several PARP-targeted radiopharmaceuticals for AE-based theranostics have been developed. We provide an updated overview of preclinical studies focused on the applications of this new theranostic approach in glioblastoma, breast, prostate and ovarian carcinoma, and pancreatic adenocarcinoma.
Graph Node Classification to Predict Autism Risk in Genes
Authors: Bandara Danushka , Riccardi Kyle
Published: April 2024

This study explores the genetic risk associations with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) using graph neural networks (GNNs), leveraging the Sfari dataset and protein interaction network (PIN) data. We built a gene network with genes as nodes, chromosome band location as node features, and gene interactions as edges. Graph models were employed to classify the autism risk associated with newly introduced genes (test set). Three classification tasks were undertaken to test the ability of our models: binary risk association, multi-class risk association, and syndromic gene association. We tested graph convolutional networks, Graph Sage, graph transformer, and Multi-Layer Perceptron (Baseline) architectures on this problem. The Graph Sage model consistently outperformed the other models, showcasing its utility in classifying ASD-related genes. Our ablation studies show that the chromosome band location and protein interactions contain useful information for this problem. The models achieved 85.80% accuracy on the binary risk classification, 81.68% accuracy on the multi-class risk classification, and 90.22% on the syndromic classification.
Location Dictates Snow Aerodynamic Roughness
Authors: Fassnacht Steven R. , Suzuki Kazuyoshi , Nemoto Masaki , Sanow Jessica E. , Kosugi Kenji , Tedesche Molly E. , Frey Markus M.
Published: April 2024

We conducted an experiment comparing wind speeds and aerodynamic roughness length (z0) values over three snow surface conditions, including a flat smooth surface, a wavy smooth surface, and a wavy surface with fresh snow added, using the wind simulation tunnel at the Shinjo Cryospheric Laboratory in Shinjo, Japan. The results indicate that the measurement location impacts the computed z0 values up to a certain measurement height. When we created small (4 cm high) snow bedforms as waves with a 50 cm period, the computed z0 values varied by up to 35% based on the horizontal sampling location over the wave (furrow versus trough). These computed z0 values for the smooth snow waves were not significantly different than those for the smooth flat snow surface. Fresh snow was then blown over the snow waves. Here, for three of four horizontal sampling locations, the computed z0 values were significantly different over the fresh snow-covered waves as compared to those over the smooth snow waves. Since meteorological stations are usually established over flat land surfaces, a smooth snow surface texture may seem to be an appropriate assumption when calculating z0, but the snowpack surface can vary substantially in space and time. Therefore, the nature of the snow surface geometry should be considered variable when estimating a z0 value, especially for modeling purposes.
Antimicrobial Properties of Basil (Ocimum basilicum L.), Sage (Salvia officinalis L.), Lavender (Lavandula officinalis L.), Immortelle (Helichrysum italicum (Roth) G. Don), and Savory (Satureja montana L.) and Their Application in Hard Cheese Production
Authors: Zdolec Nevijo , Franičević Marijana , Klanac Lucija , Kavain Ivana , Batinić Josip , Zadravec Manuela , Pleadin Jelka , Čobanov Darko , Kiš Marta
Published: April 2024

The aim of the study was to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of the extracted plants basil (Ocimum basilicum L.), sage (Salvia officinalis L.), lavender (Lavandula officinalis L.), immortelle (Helichrysum italicum (Roth) G. Don), savory (Satureja montana L.), and rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus Spenn.) against foodborne and clinical pathogens. Dried plants were used in the production of Dalmatian cow’s milk hard cheese at concentrations of 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 2% to evaluate the microbiological safety and sensory properties of novel cheeses. The broadest antimicrobial activity was found in rosemary and sage, inhibiting ten indicator pathogens, and the strongest antimicrobial activity was found in immortelle and sage, which showed the widest zones of inhibition. The most sensitive indicators were Staphylococcus species and Yersinia enterocolitica. The supplemented cheeses met the official microbiological criteria and were mycotoxin negative. The surface mycobiota of control and experimental cheeses consisted mainly of Penicillium sollitum, based on the sequence analysis of the beta-tubulin and calmodulin genes. The antifungal effect of the added plants was clearly demonstrated in cheeses with added basil and sage (p < 0.05).
The Comorbidity and Associations between Depression, Cognitive Impairment, and Sleep after Stroke and How They Affect Outcomes: A Scoping Review of the Literature
Authors: Chan Lai Gwen
Published: April 2024

Objectives: post-stroke depression (PSD), cognitive impairment, and sleep disturbances are the most common post-stroke conditions. To aid clinical practice for a highly confounded clinical problem, a clearer understanding of the associations between comorbid PSD, post-stroke cognitive impairment, and sleep disturbances is necessary. Materials and Methods: a scoping review of the literature was conducted according to the recommended guidelines using the search term [“stroke (mesh term) AND depression (in the abstract) AND cognitive (in the abstract) AND sleep (in the abstract)”]. Results: 10 studies met the criteria for inclusion. Only one study reported a co-occurrence of post-stroke emotional distress and sleep disturbances at a rate of 10.7%. Poor sleep and cognitive impairment are independent risk factors for PSD. The relationship between post-stroke poor sleep and cognitive impairment is ambiguous. None of the studies examined how PSD, cognitive impairment, and sleep disturbances interact to influence stroke outcomes. Conclusions: the dearth of studies indicates either a lack of awareness of the potential relationship between the three outcomes and the possible range of inter-related non-motor outcomes after stroke or the practical challenges in designing appropriate studies. The included studies had methodological weaknesses in their observational design and use of imprecise, subjective outcome measurements. Important knowledge gaps are identified for future research.
For-Verbs in Old English
Authors: Ogura Michiko
Published: April 2024

All of the for-verbs in the Dictionary of Old English can have semantic features of ‘equal or emphatic’, ‘expanded or antonymous’, ‘rare’, ‘only in gloss’ and ‘poetic’, including overlapping types. Most for-verbs have a sense of emphasis in contrast to their non-prefixed counterparts; some mean almost the same as the non-prefixed ones, some seem to be always used with the for-prefix, and some cannot be precisely identified because of their very rare occurrences. In this paper, I classify Old English for-verbs with examples and try to show why they were chosen in contrast to their non-prefixed counterparts.
A Survey of Emerging Memory in a Microcontroller Unit
Authors: Qi Longning , Fan Jinqi , Cai Hao , Fang Ze
Published: April 2024

In the era of widespread edge computing, energy conservation modes like complete power shutdown are crucial for battery-powered devices, but they risk data loss in volatile memory. Energy autonomous systems, relying on ambient energy, face operational challenges due to power losses. Recent advancements in emerging nonvolatile memories (NVMs) like FRAM, RRAM, MRAM, and PCM offer mature solutions to sustain work progress with minimal energy overhead during outages. This paper thoroughly reviews utilizing emerging NVMs in microcontroller units (MCUs), comparing their key attributes to describe unique benefits and potential applications. Furthermore, we discuss the intricate details of NVM circuit design and NVM-driven compute-in-memory (CIM) architectures. In summary, integrating emerging NVMs into MCUs showcases promising prospects for next-generation applications such as Internet of Things and neural networks.
Targeting Moonlighting Enzymes in Cancer
Authors: Lin Chunxu , Yu Mingyang , Wu Ximei , Wang Hui , Wei Min , Zhang Luyong
Published: April 2024

Moonlighting enzymes are multifunctional proteins that perform multiple functions beyond their primary role as catalytic enzymes. Extensive research and clinical practice have demonstrated their pivotal roles in the development and progression of cancer, making them promising targets for drug development. This article delves into multiple notable moonlighting enzymes, including GSK-3, GAPDH, and ENO1, and with a particular emphasis on an enigmatic phosphatase, PTP4A3. We scrutinize their distinct roles in cancer and the mechanisms that dictate their ability to switch roles. Lastly, we discuss the potential of an innovative approach to develop drugs targeting these moonlighting enzymes: target protein degradation. This strategy holds promise for effectively tackling moonlighting enzymes in the context of cancer therapy.
The Use of Immersive Technologies in Karate Training: A Scoping Review
Authors: Lygouras Dimosthenis , Tsinakos Avgoustos
Published: April 2024

This study investigates the integration of immersive technologies, primarily virtual reality (VR), in the domain of karate training and practice. The scoping review adheres to PRISMA guidelines and encompasses an extensive search across IEEE Xplore, Web of Science, and Scopus databases, yielding a total of 165 articles, from which 7 were ultimately included based on strict inclusion and exclusion criteria. The selected studies consistently highlight the dominance of VR technology in karate practice and teaching, with VR often facilitated by head-mounted displays (HMDs). The main purpose of VR is to create life-like training environments, evaluate performance, and enhance skill development. Immersive technologies, particularly VR, offer accurate motion capture and recording capabilities that deliver detailed feedback on technique, reaction time, and decision-making. This precision empowers athletes and coaches to identify areas for improvement and make data-driven training adjustments. Despite the promise of immersive technologies, established frameworks or guidelines are absent for their effective application in karate training. As a result, this suggests a need for best practices and guidelines to ensure optimal integration.
Low-Protein Infant Formula Enriched with Alpha-Lactalbumin during Early Infancy May Reduce Insulin Resistance at 12 Months: A Follow-Up of a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Tinghäll Nilsson Ulrika , Lönnerdal Bo , Hernell Olle , Kvistgaard Anne Staudt , Jacobsen Lotte Neergaard , Karlsland Åkeson Pia
Published: April 2024

High protein intake during infancy results in accelerated early weight gain and potentially later obesity. The aim of this follow-up study at 12 months was to evaluate if modified low-protein formulas fed during early infancy have long-term effects on growth and metabolism. In a double-blinded RCT, the ALFoNS study, 245 healthy-term infants received low-protein formulas with either alpha-lactalbumin-enriched whey (α-lac-EW; 1.75 g protein/100 kcal), casein glycomacropeptide-reduced whey (CGMP-RW; 1.76 g protein/100 kcal), or standard infant formula (SF; 2.2 g protein/100 kcal) between 2 and 6 months of age. Breastfed (BF) infants served as a reference. At 12 months, anthropometrics and dietary intake were assessed, and serum was analyzed for insulin, C-peptide, and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1). Weight gain between 6 and 12 months and BMI at 12 months were higher in the SF than in the BF infants (p = 0.019; p < 0.001, respectively), but were not significantly different between the low-protein formula groups and the BF group. S-insulin and C-peptide were higher in the SF than in the BF group (p < 0.001; p = 0.003, respectively), but more alike in the low-protein formula groups and the BF group. Serum IGF-1 at 12 months was similar in all study groups. Conclusion: Feeding modified low-protein formula during early infancy seems to reduce insulin resistance, resulting in more similar growth, serum insulin, and C-peptide concentrations to BF infants at 6-months post intervention. Feeding modified low-protein formula during early infancy results in more similar growth, serum insulin, and C-peptide concentrations to BF infants 6-months post intervention, probably due to reduced insulin resistance in the low-protein groups.
Correction: Liu et al. The Discovery of Novel Agents against Staphylococcus aureus by Targeting Sortase A: A Combination of Virtual Screening and Experimental Validation. Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17, 58
Authors: Liu Kang , Tong Jiangbo , Liu Xu , Liang Dan , Ren Fangzhe , Jiang Nan , Hao Zhenyu , Li Shixin , Wang Qiang
Published: April 2024

In the original publication [...]
Excited-State Dynamics of Carbazole and tert-Butyl-Carbazole in Organic Solvents
Authors: Knötig Konstantin Moritz , Gust Domenic , Lenzer Thomas , Oum Kawon
Published: April 2024

Carbazole-based molecular units are ubiquitous in organic optoelectronic materials; however, the excited-state relaxation of these compounds is still underexplored. Here, we provide a detailed investigation of carbazole (Cz) and 3,6-di-tert-butylcarbazole (t-Bu-Cz) in organic solvents using femtosecond and nanosecond UV–Vis–NIR transient absorption spectroscopy, as well as time-resolved fluorescence experiments upon photoexcitation in the deep-UV range. The initially prepared Sx singlet state has a (sub-)picosecond lifetime and decays to the S1 state by internal conversion (IC). The S1 state exhibits absorption peaks at 350, 600 and 1100 nm and has a lifetime of 13–15 ns, which is weakly dependent on the solvent. Energy transfer from vibrationally hot S1 molecules (S1*) to the surrounding solvent molecules takes place with a time constant of 8–20 ps. The T1 triplet state is populated by intersystem crossing (ISC) from S1 with a typical quantum yield of 51–56% and shows a lifetime which is typically in the few microseconds regime. The S1 and T1 states of both carbazole compounds in solution are strongly quenched by O2. Two-photon excitation leads to the formation of a small amount of the respective radical cation. The influence of the tert-butyl substituents on the photophysics is relatively weak and mainly reflects itself in a small increase in the Stokes shift. The results provide important photophysical information for the interpretation of carbazole relaxation in more complex environments.
Anti-IL-6 Receptor Treatment in Giant Cell Arteritis Patients Reduces Levels of IL-1β-Receptor Antagonist but Not IL-1β
Authors: da Costa Joana J. , Christ Lisa , Villiger Peter M. , Vogel Monique , Bachmann Martin F.
Published: April 2024

This work aimed to investigate a potential link between serum IL-1β levels in patients with giant cell arteritis (GCA) and their responsiveness to combined anti-IL-6 receptor (IL-6R) and glucocorticoid (GC) treatments within the context of two separate clinical trials. IL-1β levels were analyzed in serum samples of two prospective clinical trials investigating tocilizumab in GCA patients using quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (qPCR) based Proximity Ligation Assays (PLA). In the phase II randomized controlled trial, serum samples from five patients were quantified at two critical time points: the commencement of the trial (Week 2) and the conclusion of the trial (Week 52). In the GUSTO trial, serum samples from nine patients were similarly analyzed using PLA at Day 0 and Week 52. Furthermore, for the GUSTO trial, serum samples from 18 patients were assessed for IL-1β and IL-1RN at six time points: days 0, 3, and 10, weeks 4, 24, and 52 by a second assay (Proximity Extension Assay, PEA). PLA results from both studies indicated that IL-1β levels were below 1 pg/mL in most of the patients, resulting in notable signal deviations within the same samples. In the analysis of the GUSTO trial, both PLA and PEA exhibited similar trends in IL-1β variations among patients from day 0 to week 52. Notably, the PEA analysis did not show significant variation over time. Furthermore, we did not find a correlation of IL-1β levels with active disease as compared to remission, but interestingly, the measurement of IL-1β receptor antagonist (IL-1RN) revealed a substantial decrease over time. Our study shows that IL-1RN but not IL-1β concentration in serum samples could be directly related to anti-IL-6R treatment in patients diagnosed with GCA.
Simulation Validation of an 8-Channel Parallel-Transmit Dipole Array on an Infant Phantom: Including RF Losses for Robust Correlation with Experimental Results
Authors: Clément Jérémie Daniel , Ipek Özlem
Published: April 2024

It is crucial to demonstrate a robust correlation between the simulated and manufactured parallel-transmit (pTx) arrays performances to release the currently-used, very restrictive safety margins. In this study, we describe the qualitative and quantitative validation of a simulation model with respect to experimental results for an 8-channel dipole array at 7T. An approach that includes the radiofrequency losses into the simulation model is presented and compared to simulation models neglecting these losses. Simulated S-matrices and individual B1+-field maps were compared with experimentally measured quantities. With the proposed approach, an average relative difference of ~1.1% was found between simulated and experimental reflection coefficients, ~4.2% for the 1st coupling terms, and ~9.4% for the 2nd coupling terms. A maximum normalized root-mean-square error of 4.8% was achieved between experimental and simulated individual B1+-field maps. The effectiveness of the simulation model to accurately predict the B1+-field patterns was assessed, qualitatively and quantitatively, through a comparison with experimental data. We conclude that, using the proposed model for radiofrequency losses, a robust correlation is achieved between simulated and experimental data using the 8-channel dipole array at 7T.
Has Green Finance Enhanced the Ecological Resilience Level in the Yangtze River Economic Belt?
Authors: Le Xuanyan , Ding Xuhui , Zhang Jize , Zhao Li
Published: April 2024

Ecological environment restoration has become an important strategy for the high-quality development of the Yangtze River Economic Belt, and green finance is indispensable to supporting industrial transformation and green innovation. It is of great importance to clarify the internal relationship between green finance and ecological resilience construction. This paper introduces the concept of resilience into the field of ecological construction and constructs an ecological resilience index system from three dimensions of “resistance-adaptability-resilience”. On this basis, it focuses on the different aspects of green finance, such as green credit, green securities, green investment, green insurance, etc., and examines the role of green financial development on the ecological resilience of the Yangtze River Economic Belt. The results of the study showed that (1) during the study period, the overall ecological resilience level of the Yangtze River Economic Belt improved significantly and there were significant differences in the ecological resilience of the economic belts but such spatial differences are converging; (2) green insurance has a significant positive influence on ecological resilience, while green credit, green securities, and green investment have a significant negative influence on ecological resilience; (3) green credit and green securities have a significant positive effect on the resistance to ecological resilience, green credit and green investment inhibit the adaptability of ecological resilience, and green insurance significantly improves the resilience of ecological resilience. Green financial policies should be further optimized, and innovative all-round and multi-level products and services should be provided. It is necessary to leverage social capital to promote green transformation and technological innovation in high-pollution industries. By combining resource endowment and location advantages, we can explore the benign interaction between green finance and ecological civilization construction.
Enhancement of Anaerobic Digestion from Food Waste via Ultrafine Wet Milling Pretreatment: Simulation, Performance, and Mechanisms
Authors: Li Zongsheng , Jiang Xiupeng , Shi Wenjie , Yang Dongye , Zhao Youcai , Zhou Tao
Published: April 2024

Particle size reduction is a commonly used pretreatment technique to promote methane production from anaerobic digestion (AD) of food waste (FW). However, limited research has focused on the effect of micron-sized particles on AD of FW. This research presented an ultrafine wet milling (UFWM) pretreatment method to reduce the particle size of FW particles. After four hours of milling, D90 was reduced to 73 μm and cumulative methane production boosted from 307.98 mL/g vs. to 406.75 mL/g vs. without ammonia inhibition. We evaluated the performance of the AD systems and explored their facilitation mechanisms. Kinetic analysis showed that the modified Gompertz model predicted experimental values most accurately. UFWM pretreatment increased the maximum methane production rate by 44.4% and reduced the lag time by 0.65 days. The mechanical stress and collisions of milling resulted in a scaly surface of the particles, which greatly increased the voids and surface area. A rise in the XPS peak area of the C–N and C=O bonds proved the promotion of the liberation of carbohydrates and fats. Further microbial community analysis revealed that the relative abundance of Bacteroidota and Methanosarcina were enriched by UFWM. Meanwhile, methane metabolism pathway analysis confirmed that module M00567, module M00357, and related enzymes were stimulated. This study provided a theoretical basis for UFWM pretreatment applications and improvements in AD of FW.
Distribution and Characteristics of Springs in Two Neighboring Areas of Different Morphogenic Relief Type—Example of SW Medvednica Mountain (Central Croatia)
Authors: Martinić Ivan , Čanjevac Ivan
Published: April 2024

Hydrogeological characteristics of certain areas are the most important factor in the distribution and hydrological characteristics of springs. Nevertheless, geomorphological, i.e., morphometrical characteristics can also play an important role in their distribution and/or can serve as spatial indicators of spring positions. This study compares the distribution of springs, their hydrological and morphometric characteristics in two neighboring areas of different morphogenic relief types in the Medvednica mountain (central Croatia), as well as their relationship with known faults. Results show that most of the springs in both areas researched have discharges between 0.01 L/s and 0.1 L/s. Nevertheless, in the fluviokarst area, there is a higher share of springs with discharges higher than 0.1 L/s. Morphometric characteristics of springs studied (altitude, slope, relative relief, curvature and Topographic Wetness Index (TWI)) have shown certain differences that are connected to the hydrogeological characteristics of the area. Results indicate that spring locations in the fluviodenudation relief area are more connected to the geomorphological processes caused by surface and shallow underground water runoff, while in the fluviokarst relief, that connection is less pronounced. Research has also shown that spring distribution in both areas is connected to faults, with somewhat higher concurrence in the fluviodenudation relief.
Yellow River Basin Management under Pressure: Present State, Restoration and Protection II: Lessons from a Special Issue
Authors: Zuo Qiting , Ding Xiangyi , Cui Guotao , Zhang Wei
Published: April 2024

This Special Issue is the second edition following the publication of the first Issue, “Yellow River Basin Management under Pressure: Present State, Restoration and Protection”, in 2021 [...]
Transfer Function-Based Road Classification for Vehicles with Nonlinear Semi-Active Suspension
Authors: Kouhi Hamed , Ghalami Mehran , Norouzzadeh Amir , Ahmadi Amirmasoud
Published: April 2024

Ride comfort and handling are two important criteria regarding vehicle vibration control. For solving the inconsistency between ride comfort and handling, a semi-active suspension system equipped with a road classification system can be a suitable solution. Because the road condition varies during driving, the control gain of the semi-active suspension system should be adaptively changed according to the road level. In this paper, accelerometer data and a transfer function scheme will be used for road classification, and there is no need to measure the road directly with difficult and often expensive methods. In this approach, a transfer function that makes relevant the Power Spectral Density (PSD) of the road surface and the PSD of car acceleration is used. Road classification is investigated for a vehicle with a nonlinear, semi-active suspension system equipped with Continuous Damping Control (CDC) and nonlinear springs. To show the applicability of the proposed method in scenarios close to real situations, robustness analysis is done by considering vehicle model uncertainties and sensor noise. The simulation results show that the proposed method is robust against typical uncertainties and accelerometer noise and can classify the road level, which is used to tune the parameters of the nonlinear, semi-active suspension system.
EFEKTIVITAS MEDIA FLIP CHART DAN VIDEO PEMBELAJARAN DALAM MENINGKATKAN PEMAHAMAN TENTANG KARIES GIGI PADA ANAK KELAS V SD NEGERI KARANG JALAK 2 KOTA CIREBON
Authors: Dwi Utami Putri , Mulyanti Sri , Insanuddin Isa , Supriyanto Irwan
Published: April 2024

Berdasarkan Riset Kesehatan Dasar (RISKESDAS) tahun 2018 tercatat prevalensi gigi berlubang masyarakat Kota Cirebon sebesar 34,45% sedangkan pada usia anak 10-14 tahun Provinsi Jawa Barat tercatat prevalensi gigi berlubang yaitu sebesar 39,80%. Kasus ini banyak ditemukan salah satunya di SDN Karang Jalak 2 selain itu tidak pernah diberikan penyuluhan sehingga perlunya melakukan penyuluhan kesehatan gigi dan mulut sejak dini. Tujuan penelitian adalah untuk mengetahui efektivitas media flipchart dan video pembelajaran dalam meningkatkan pemahaman tentang karies gigi pada siswa kelas V di SDN Karang Jalak 2 Kota Cirebon, subjek penelitian ini adalah murid kelas V sebanyak 80 orang dengan teknik pengambilan total sampling. Jenis penelitian ini adalah eksperimen semu. Hasil penelitian menunjukan bahwa penggunaan media video pembelajaran lebih efektif dibandingkan dengan penggunaan media flipchart terhadap peningkatan  pemahaman mengenai karies gigi dengan selisih nilai 0,75 lebih efektif terhadap peningkatan media video pembelajaran, selisih nilai pre-posttest video pembelajaran adalah 51,75, sedangkan pada media flipchart adalah 51. Hasil uji T-test Independent menunjukan bahwa ada perbedaan efektivitas kedua media tersebut dalam meningkatkan pemahaman tentang karies gigi dengan nilai p=0.000 (p<0.05).
GAMBARAN PENGETAHUAN ORANG TUA TENTANG KEBIASAAN BURUK YANG MEPENGARUHI MALOKLUSI PADA ANAK USIA PRA SEKOLAH
Authors: Winda Fadilla  , Hera Nurnaningsih  , Deru Marah Laut  , Eliza Herijulianti
Published: April 2024

Pengetahuan orang tua dalam pemeliharaan gigi memberi pengaruh yang cukup signifikan, sehingga peran serta orang tua sangat diperlukan dalam membimbing, memberikan pengertian, mengingatkan agar anak dapat memelihara kebersihan gigi dan mulutnya, serta mencegah kebiasaan buruk. Kebiasaan buruk pada rongga mulut adalah pola perilaku yang dilakukan seseorang secara berulang, spontan, dan tidak normal pada rongga mulut sehingga mengganggu fungsi rongga mulut. Kebiasaan buruk merupakan penyebab utama maloklusi yang paling sering ditemui, faktornya yaitu frekuensi, intensitas, dan durasi. Penelitian ini adalah penelitian deskriptif yang bertujuan untuk mengetahui gambaran pengetahuan orang tua tentang kebiasaan buruk yang mepengaruhi maloklusi pada anak pra sekolah. Sampelnya adalah 33 orang tua yang memiliki anak usia pra sekolah di suatu TK. Data dikumpulkan dengan cara pengisian kuisioner tentang kebiasaan buruk yang mempengaruhi maloklusi dan disajikan secara online dalam bentuk Google Form. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa pengetahuan orang tua tentang kebiasaan buruk yang mepengaruhi maloklusi pada anak pra sekolah rata-rata memiliki kriteria baik dengan presentase 97%.
EFEKTIFITAS PASTA GIGI HERBAL DAUN SIRIH DAN PASTA GIGI NON HERBAL DALAM MENGHAMBAT AKUMULASI PLAK
Authors: Jahovah Tara , Supriyanto Irwan , Insanuddin Isa , Mulyanti Sri
Published: April 2024

Plak gigi merupakan deposit lunak yang melekat erat pada permukaan gigi, terdiri atas mikroorganisme yang berkembang biak dalam suatu matrik interseluler jika seseorang melalaikan kebersihan gigi dan mulutnya. Kontrol plak secara mekanis dapat meliputi penyikatan gigi dan penggunaan benang gigi. Pasta gigi dapat digunakan sebagai sarana penunjang untuk pengendalian plak. Pasta gigi dengan kandungan herbal seperti daun sirih merupakan salah satu dari keanekaragaman pasta gigi yang beredar di pasaran. Penelitian ini berjudul Efektifitas Pasta Gigi Herbal Daun Sirih Dan Non Herbal Dalam Menghambat Akumulasi Plak. Tujuan penelitian untuk mengetahui efektifitas pasta gigi herbal daun sirih dan pasta gigi non herbal dalam menghambat akumulasi plak. Penelitian ini dilakukan dengan metode studi literatur. Hasil penelusuran didapatkan pasta gigi herbal daun sirih efektif dalam menghambat akumulasi plak. Kesimpulan penelitian ini adalah pasta gigi herbal daun sirih efektif dalam menghambat akumulasi plak dibandingkan pasta gigi non herbal.
PENGARUH EKSTRAK DAUN CENGKEH (SYZYGIUM AROMATICUM) PADA DIFFUSER INSECT REPPELENT TERHADAP KEPADATAN LALAT DI TEMPAT PENGOLAHAN TELUR PT.X
Authors: Astuti Lidia Puji , Septiati Yosephina Ardiani , Mulyati Sri Slamet
Published: April 2024

Lalat merupakan salah satu kelompok serangga yang berkembang dan hidup di tempat yang kotor serta berperan dalam penyebaran penyakit seperti penyakit disentri, kolera, typus, diare dan penyakit lainnya. Tujuan dari penelitian ini untuk mengetahui pengaruh konsentrasi ekstrak daun cengkeh pada diffuser insect repellent terhadap kepadatan lalat di tempat pengolahan telur PT. X. Jenis penelitian ini adalah eksperimen dengan desain penelitian pre test post test without control. Sampel pada penelitian ini adalah lalat yang ada di tempat pengolahan telur di PT. X.Teknik pengambilan sampel adalah Insidental sampling. Perlakuan yang diberikan adalah tiiga perlakuan yaitu variasi konsentrasi 10%, 15% dan 20%. Data pengamatan dianalisis dengan menggunakan uji one way anova didapatkan hasil posttest menunjukan bahwa ada hubungan yang signifikan antara variasi konsentrasi ekstrak daun cengkeh terhadap kepadatan lalat di tempat pengolahan telur PT.X. Hasil pengukuran jumlah lalat yang tertolak dengan ekstrak daun cengkeh pada konsentrasi 10% sebanyak 5 ekor, konsentrasi 15% sebanyak 9 ekor dan konsentrasi 20% sebanyak 17 ekor. Berdasarkan penelitian konsentrasi yang dapat menolak kehadiran lalat yaitu pada konsentrasi 20%. Saran penelitian selanjutnya yaitu meningkatkan konsentrasi yang lebih tinggi dan desain alat yang lebih besar agar uap yang dikeluarkan lebih banyak dan tersebar.
PERBEDAAN LAMA PENYINARAN UV-C TERHADAP REDUKSI JUMLAH ESCHERICHIA COLI PADA AIR BERSIH DAPUR PT. XYZ
Authors: Sari Destia Indah , Septiati Yosephina Ardiani , Setyoko Sadono
Published: April 2024

Air bersih dapur di PT. XYZ digunakan untuk kegiatan mencuci beras dan juga mencuci seluruh peralatan memasak. Air bersih dapur tersebut terindikasi mengandung bakteri Escherichia coli sebanyak 71 APM/100 ml dan melebihi standar baku mutu yang berlaku. Untuk itu, diperlukan pengolahan air bersih lanjutan dengan cara disinfeksi, disinfeksi yang digunakan adalah sinar Ultra Violet-C dengan panjang gelombang 254 nm karena bersifat germicidal bagi bakteri. Tujuan dari penelitian ini yaitu ingin mengetahui dan menganalisis lama penyinaran sinar Ultra Violet-C yang paling efektif dalam mereduksi bakteri Escherichia coli. Jenis penelitian ini yaitu penelitian eksperimen dengan desain penelitian Pretest Posttest without Control menggunakan sampel air bersih dapur dengan 2 variasi lama penyinaran yaitu 55 detik dan 85 detik. Pengujian statistik dengan uji Mann Whitney menghasilkan P-value 0,146 yang menunjukkan bahwa tidak terdapat perbedaan bermakna lama penyinaran sinar Ultra Violet-C 55 detik dan 85 detik terhadap reduksi jumlah bakteri Escherichia coli. Rata-rata persentase penurunan bakteri Escherichia coli pada lama penyinaran 55 detik yaitu sebesar 99,85%, sedangkan pada lama penyinaran 85 detik yaitu sebesar 100%. Lama penyinaran sinar UV-C yang paling efektif dalam mereduksi bakteri Escherichia coli pada air bersih dapur PT. XYZ yaitu lama penyinaran 85 detik.