bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Surfactant Distribution on the Liquid Surface Above an Approaching Particle
Authors: Nepomnyashchy Alexander A.
Published: October 2024

The axisymmetric distribution of an insoluble surfactant on the liquid surface above a particle rising towards the surface has been considered. Under the assumption that the surface is fully covered by the surfactant, an analytical expression for the quasistationary surfactant distribution is found. The limits of the assumption validity are discussed. The conditions for the appearance of a region free of the surfactant is found.
The Genomic Variation in Textured Hair: Implications in Developing a Holistic Hair Care Routine
Authors: Oladele Deborah B. , Markiewicz Ewa , Idowu Olusola C.
Published: October 2024

Human hair is characterised by variability, determined by genetic and macromolecular factors. Whilst the European hair type has been a focus of extensive research, Afro-textured hair care faces challenges created by insufficient knowledge of its properties. Applications of hair care products that are incompatible with Afro-textured hair frequently have detrimental effects on the scalp. This highlights the need for partnerships to bridge the gap between research and hair care practices and address challenges related to Afro-textured hair. In this review, we performed data mining of the existing literature and in silico network analysis of the biomarkers relevant to Afro-textured hair. The approaches to hair maintenance are highlighted in the context of hair anatomy and growth cycles, organisation of keratins, surface lipids, and chemical bonds. We discuss a range of biomarkers affecting hair fibre’s shape and mechanical strength, with the gene interactive network pointing to the hierarchical organisation of important traits, notably hair shaft diameter, keratinization, and hair follicle patterning, which likely contribute to the increased sensitivity of hair to extrinsic factors. We propose that a better understanding of the genetic traits, molecular structure, and biomechanics of Afro-textured hair is required to initiate more effective hair care solutions that would benefit the wider population.
A Fisher Information Theory of Aesthetic Preference for Complexity
Authors: Berquet Sébastien , Aleem Hassan , Grzywacz Norberto M.
Published: October 2024

When evaluating sensory stimuli, people tend to prefer those with not too little or not too much complexity. A recent theoretical proposal for this phenomenon is that preference has a direct link to the Observed Fisher Information that a stimulus carries about the environment. To make this theory complete, one must specify the model that the brain has about complexities in the world. Here, we develop this model by first obtaining the distributions of three indices of complexity measured as normalized Shannon Entropy in real-world images from seven environments. We then search for a parametric model that accounts for these distributions. Finally, we measure the Observed Fisher Information that each image has about the parameters of this model. The results show that with few exceptions, the distributions of image complexities are unimodal, have negative skewness, and are leptokurtotic. Moreover, the sign and magnitude of the skewness varies systematically with the location of the mode. After investigating tens of models for these distributions, we show that the Logit-Losev function, a generalization of the hyperbolic-secant distribution, fits them well. The Observed Fisher Information for this model shows the inverted-U-shape behavior of complexity preference. Finally, we discuss ways to test our Fisher-Information theory.
Electrochemical Sensing of Hydrogen Peroxide Using Composite Bismuth Oxide/Bismuth Oxyselenide Nanostructures: Antagonistic Influence of Tungsten Doping
Authors: Walimbe Pooja D. , Kumar Rajeev , Shringi Amit Kumar , Keelson Obed , Ouma Hazel Achieng , Yan Fei
Published: October 2024

This study investigates the underlying mechanisms of hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) sensing using a composite material of bismuth oxide and bismuth oxyselenide (Bi2OxSey). The antagonistic effect of tungsten (W)-doping on the electrochemical behavior was also examined. Undoped, 2 mol%, 4 mol%, and 6 mol% W-doped Bi2OxSey nanostructures were synthesized using a one-pot solution phase method involving selenium powder and hydrazine hydrate. W-doping induced a morphological transformation from nanosheets to spherical nanoparticles and amorphization of the bismuth oxyselenide phase. Electrochemical sensing measurements were conducted using cyclic voltammetry (CV) and differential pulse voltammetry (DPV). H₂O₂ detection was achieved over a wide concentration range of 0.02 to 410 µM. In-depth CV analysis revealed the complex interplay of oxidation-reduction processes within the bismuth oxide and Bi2O2Se components of the composite material. W-doping exhibited an antagonistic effect, significantly reducing sensitivity. Among the studied samples, undoped Bi2OxSeγ demonstrated a high sensitivity of 83 μA μM⁻1 cm⁻2 for the CV oxidation peak at 0 V, while 6 mol% W-Bi2OxSey became completely insensitive to H2O2. Interestingly, DPV analysis showed a reversal of sensitivity trends with 2 and 4 mol% W-doping. The applicability of these samples for real-world analysis, including rainwater and urine, was also demonstrated.
Training by Pairing Correlated Samples Improves Deep Network Generalization
Authors: Phan Duc H. , Jones Douglas L.
Published: October 2024

Deep neural networks (DNNs) have been widely applied in different application domains. The DNN was first studied intensively in vision applications before adapting it to other fields. To migrate DNN solutions from the vision domain to another application domain, a neural network solution may be influenced by new structures or improved training processes. This article focuses on training process improvements. We propose a pairing technique that simultaneously optimizes the performance of the models on pairs of training samples during the training process. A pair includes an original training example and a corresponding modified version. Our pairing techniques adapt the similarity part of the contrastive loss as an additional regularization term for the loss function of a given machine learning task. The pairing techniques show at least 1% improvement in network accuracy on top of mix-up augmentation for the CIFAR10 dataset and 2% increase in accuracy for DCASE 2020 Task 1A data. We show that the proposed training-by-pairs provides parameter regularization for ReLU deep networks. As a result, the technique can potentially apply to many other machine learning applications.
Mitigating Thermal Side-Channel Vulnerabilities in FPGA-Based SiP Systems Through Advanced Thermal Management and Security Integration Using Thermal Digital Twin (TDT) Technology
Authors: Benelhaouare Amrou Zyad , Mellal Idir , Oumlaz Maroua , Lakhssassi Ahmed
Published: October 2024

Side-channel attacks (SCAs) are powerful techniques used to recover keys from electronic devices by exploiting various physical leakages, such as power, timing, and heat. Although heat is one of the less frequently analyzed channels due to the high noise associated with thermal traces, it poses a significant and growing threat to the security of very large-scale integrated (VLSI) microsystems, particularly system in package (SiP) technologies. Thermal side-channel attacks (TSCAs) exploit temperature variations, risking not only hardware damage from excessive heat dissipation but also enabling the extraction of sensitive data, like cryptographic keys, by observing thermal patterns. This dual threat underscores the need for a synergistic approach to thermal management and security in designing integrated microsystems. In response, this paper presents a novel approach that improves the early detection of abnormal thermal fluctuations in SiP designs, preventing cybercriminals from exploiting such anomalies to extract sensitive information for malicious purposes. Our approach employs a new concept called Thermal Digital Twin (TDT), which integrates two previously separate methods and techniques, resulting in successful outcomes. It combines the gradient direction sensor scan (GDSSCAN) to capture thermal data from the physical field programmable gate array (FPGA), which guarantees rapid thermal scan with a measurement period that could be close to 10 μs, a resolution of 0.5 ∘C, and a temperature range from −40 ∘C to 140 ∘C; once the data are transmitted in real time to a Digital Twin created in COMSOL Multiphysics® 6.0 for simulation using the Finite Element Method (FEM), the real time required by the CPU to perform all the necessary calculations can extend to several seconds or minutes. This integration allows for a detailed analysis of thermal transfer within the SiP model of our FPGA. Implementation and simulations demonstrate that the Thermal Digital Twin (TDT) approach could reduce the risks associated with TSCA by a significant percentage, thereby enhancing the security of FPGA systems against thermal threats.
Comparison of Biohydrogen Production by Tetraselmis subcordiformis During Cultivation Using Soil-Less Agricultural Wastewater and Effluent from Microbial Fuel Cells
Authors: Zieliński Marcin , Barczak Łukasz , Rusanowska Paulina , Kazimierowicz Joanna , Dębowski Marcin
Published: October 2024

The development and implementation of innovative production technologies have a direct influence on the creation of new sources of pollution and types of waste. An example of this is the wastewater from soil-less agriculture and the effluent from microbial fuel cells. An important topic is the development and application of methods for their neutralisation that take into account the assumptions of global environmental policy. The aim of the present study was to determine the possibilities of utilising this type of pollution in the process of autotrophic cultivation of the biohydrogen-producing microalgae Tetraselmis subcordiformis. The highest biomass concentration of 3030 ± 183 mgVS/L and 67.9 ± 3.5 mg chl-a/L was observed when the culture medium was wastewater from soil-less agriculture. The growth rate in the logarithmic growth phase was 270 ± 16 mgVS/L-day and 5.95 ± 0.24 mg chl-a/L-day. In the same scenario, the highest total H2 production of 161 ± 8 mL was also achieved, with an observed H2 production rate of 4.67 ± 0.23 mL/h. Significantly lower effects in terms of biomass production of T. subcordiformis and H2 yield were observed when fermented dairy wastewater from the anode chamber of the microbial fuel cell was added to the culture medium.
Development of Operating Strategies for Return Fan in HVAC System Considering Differential Pressure
Authors: Lee Hye-In , Kim Hyo-Jun , Lee Jin-Hyun , Cho Young-Hum
Published: October 2024

The pressure difference in buildings causes indoor and outdoor airflow, significantly impacting the indoor thermal environment and building energy consumption due to the introduction of outdoor air. The pressure difference in buildings is highly variable, influenced by outdoor wind speed, indoor–outdoor temperature differences, and heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) system operation, making it difficult to consider this factor during general HVAC system operation, potentially leading to an imbalance in indoor and outdoor pressure differences. Therefore, this study proposes an appropriate operation strategy for HVAC system return fans considering indoor–outdoor pressure differences. The proposed strategy involves adjusting the return fan airflow to maintain a constant indoor airflow balance, thereby controlling the indoor–outdoor pressure difference, satisfying the indoor thermal environment, and reducing HVAC system energy consumption. To evaluate the proposed strategy, dynamic simulations using TRNSYS and TRNFLOW were utilized, targeting one floor of an office building equipped with a variable air volume (VAV) system. The evaluation results showed that the maximum pressure difference decreased from −142 Pa to −18 Pa compared to the existing strategy, and the total energy consumption of the HVAC system was reduced by 29%, highlighting the importance of considering pressure differences during HVAC system operation.
Reaction Molecular Dynamics Study of Combustion Mechanism in Heavy Oil Thermal Recovery
Authors: Yang Tianfang , Cheng Linsong , Liu Zilong , Sun Zhigang , Zhou Ronghao , Wang Huan , Luo Hongbing
Published: October 2024

The organic material present at the same depth as the oil in the reservoirs has the potential for conversion, as indicated by analyses conducted before and after heavy oil combustion. Therefore, in this study, we examined the oxidation and pyrolysis reaction pathways of hydrocarbons, specifically benzaldehyde (C7H6O) and naphthalene (C10H8), before and after combustion using molecular dynamics simulations. The results showed that the primary products formed under various temperature conditions included H2O, HO2, CO, and CO2. We determined the number of molecules, such as HO and H, as well as their temperature variations, and found that the activating group functions as an electron donor, while the inactivating group serves as an electron acceptor. The oxidation and pyrolysis reactions of naphthalene and the synthesis pathway of benzaldehyde were also explored. C-C dissociation in the early stages of combustion and the process of C-C bond synthesis in the later stages of the reactions were investigated through dynamic simulations at different temperatures, 3000 K, 3500 K, and 4000 K, with a particular focus on the reaction network at 4000 K. The application of the molecular reaction dynamics method to heavy oil combustion research was the primary objective of this work. This study aims to provide a novel approach to investigating hydrocarbon conversion at high temperatures and offer recommendations for enhanced oil recovery.
An Embedded System for Real-Time Atrial Fibrillation Diagnosis Using a Multimodal Approach to ECG Data
Authors: Akter Monalisa , Islam Nayeema , Ahad Abdul , Chowdhury Md. Asaduzzaman , Apurba Fahim Foysal , Khan Riasat
Published: October 2024

Cardiovascular diseases pose a significant global health threat, with atrial fibrillation representing a critical precursor to more severe heart conditions. In this work, a multimodality-based deep learning model has been developed for diagnosing atrial fibrillation using an embedded system consisting of a Raspberry Pi 4B, an ESP8266 microcontroller, and an AD8232 single-lead ECG sensor to capture real-time ECG data. Our approach leverages a deep learning model that is capable of distinguishing atrial fibrillation from normal ECG signals. The proposed method involves real-time ECG signal acquisition and employs a multimodal model trained on the PTB-XL dataset. This model utilizes a multi-step approach combining a CNN–bidirectional LSTM for numerical ECG series tabular data and VGG16 for image-based ECG representations. A fusion layer is incorporated into the multimodal CNN-BiLSTM + VGG16 model to enhance atrial fibrillation detection, achieving state-of-the-art results with a precision of 94.07% and an F1 score of 0.94. This study demonstrates the efficacy of a multimodal approach in improving the real-time diagnosis of cardiovascular diseases. Furthermore, for edge devices, we have distilled knowledge to train a smaller student model, CNN-BiLSTM, using a larger CNN-BiLSTM model as a teacher, which achieves an accuracy of 83.21% with 0.85 s detection latency. Our work represents a significant advancement towards efficient and preventative cardiovascular health management.
Numerical Investigation of Force Network Evolution in a Moving Bed Air Reactor
Authors: Dai Wei , Shao Yali , Yin Shangyi , Song Tao , Agarwal Ramesh K.
Published: October 2024

In spite of extensive research on macroscopic solid movements in the dense granular system of a moving bed air reactor, research on the evolution characteristics of the mesoscale inter-particle contact force network is still lacking. In this work, discrete element simulations are conducted to investigate the force chain structure properties in a moving bed air reactor. The results show that during the particle discharging process, the force chain network exhibits great anisotropy, and force chain contacts account for only about 13–14% of all inter-particle contacts, while the strong particle–particle contacts account for about 37–41% of all the particle–particle interactions. The collimation coefficients of force chains are more stable at the early stages and then decrease sharply over time. Both particle–particle and particle–wall friction coefficients affect the number, strength, collimation coefficient, and direction of force chains but have little influence on the length distribution of force chains. An in-depth analysis of the evolution of the force network provides new insights for further understanding dense granular flow in a moving bed air reactor for chemical looping combustion.
Open Access Bacillus cereus Cocktail Secondary Growth Model for the Food Industry
Authors: Tang Xiaoyang , Zhang Dingwu , Malakar Pradeep K.
Published: October 2024

A cost-effective algorithm is presented, using a virtual dataset of growth rates from a cocktail of Bacillus cereus strains, for developing an open access, extended-range secondary growth model. Extended-range growth models can span the range of processing conditions typically used in food manufacturing and are therefore more relevant for industry. The open access extended-range secondary growth model for a cocktail of B. cereus strains was created using publicly available data, and the methodology can be adapted for modelling growth of other pathogens. An extended-range model can help manage B. cereus hazards in novel food categories with non-traditional formulations as estimations of B. cereus risks in these foods become more precise. This open access model, however, needs to be validated using data from B. cereus strain cocktails isolated from production facilities. Once validated, these independent factor models are valuable tools, in a pathogen decision support platform, which are tuned to local production environments. Such a platform can address the needs of current and future food product portfolios, effectively mitigating risks associated with B. cereus and other relevant pathogens.
2-Bromopalmitate-Induced Intestinal Flora Changes and Testicular Dysfunction in Mice
Authors: Ma Yuxuan , Chen Yining , Li Long , Wu Zifang , Cao Heran , Zhu Chao , Liu Qimin , Wang Yang , Chen Shaoxian , Liu Yuyan , Dong Wuzi
Published: October 2024

2-Bromopalmitate (2-BP) is a palmitoylation inhibitor that can prevent the binding of palmitic acid to proteins, thereby exhibiting significant effects in promoting inflammation and regulating the immune system. However, limited research has been conducted regarding the direct effects of 2-BP on the animal organism. Therefore, we probed mice injected with 2-BP for altered expression of inflammatory genes, with a focus on demonstrating changes in the intestinal flora as well as damage to the reproductive system. Our findings indicate that 2-BP can induce substantial inflammatory responses in visceral organs and cause testicular dysfunction. The key changes in the gut microbiota were characterized by an abundance of Firmicutes, Clostridiales, Rikenellaceae_RC9_gut_group, Desulfovibrio, Muribaculaceae, and Alistipes, and their metabolism has been intricately linked to visceral inflammation. Overall, the findings of this study provide a sound scientific basis for understanding the impact of high doses of 2-BP in mammals, while also offering crucial support for the development of preclinical models to suppress palmitoylation.
miR-30c-5p Gain and Loss of Function Modulate Sciatic Nerve Injury-Induced Nucleolar Stress Response in Dorsal Root Ganglia Neurons
Authors: Francés Raquel , Mata-Garrido Jorge , Lafarga Miguel , Hurlé María A. , Tramullas Mónica
Published: October 2024

Neuropathic pain is a prevalent and debilitating chronic syndrome that is often resistant to treatment. It frequently arises as a consequence of damage to first-order nociceptive neurons in the lumbar dorsal root ganglia (DRG), with chromatolysis being the primary neuropathological response following sciatic nerve injury (SNI). Nevertheless, the function of miRNAs in modulating this chromatolytic response in the context of neuropathic pain remains unexplored. Our previous research demonstrated that the intracisternal administration of a miR-30c mimic accelerates the development of neuropathic pain, whereas the inhibition of miR-30c prevents pain onset and reverses established allodynia. In the present study, we sought to elucidate the role of miR-30c-5p in the pathogenesis of neuropathic pain, with a particular focus on its impact on DRG neurons following SNI. The organisation and ultrastructural changes in DRG neurons, particularly in the protein synthesis machinery, nucleolus, and Cajal bodies (CBs), were analysed. The results demonstrated that the administration of a miR-30c-5p mimic exacerbates chromatolytic damage and nucleolar stress and induces CB depletion in DRG neurons following SNI, whereas the administration of a miR-30c-5p inhibitor alleviates these effects. We proposed that three essential cellular responses—nucleolar stress, CB depletion, and chromatolysis—are the pathological mechanisms in stressed DRG neurons underlying neuropathic pain. Moreover, miR-30c-5p inhibition has a neuroprotective effect by reducing the stress response in DRG neurons, which supports its potential as a therapeutic target for neuropathic pain management. This study emphasises the importance of miR-30c-5p in neuropathic pain pathogenesis and supports further exploration of miRNA-based treatments.
Evaluating Waste-Based Alkali Activated Materials as Pavement Quality Concrete
Authors: Abdayem Joseph , Saba Marianne , Tehrani Fateh Fakhari , Absi Joseph
Published: October 2024

The utilization of Ordinary Portland Cement as the primary material of choice in the construction industry has had its drawbacks due to the large amounts of pollution Portland cement’s production causes. Significant findings have been discovered, and alkali-activated materials have been implemented as an alternative cementitious material to the traditional concrete of today. Alkali-activated materials can be formulated using industrial wastes, making them eco-friendly and a more sustainable replacement for concrete. This study aims to assess whether alkali-activated materials can be implemented in infrastructural fields and seeks to evaluate the possibility of alkali-activated materials acting as pavement-quality concrete in infrastructural applications. This review presents the results of various studies, demonstrating that alkali-activated materials can meet the requirements for pavement-quality concrete with the proper incorporation of industrial wastes. This outlines the viability of alkali-activated materials (AAMs) as a green alternative for pavement applications as most AAMs attain required mechanical properties, mostly reaching compressive strength values higher than the required 40 MPa, all while simultaneously adhering to the needed durability, workability, drying shrinkage, and abrasion resistance attributes. Using industrial waste-based alkali-activated materials renders the material eco-friendly and sustainable, all while enhancing the material’s characteristics and properties necessary for large-scale infrastructural applications. This review highlights AAMs’ suitability as a durable and eco-friendly solution for pavement construction.
Recent Advances in Low Valent Thorium and Uranium Chemistry
Authors: Tsoureas Nikolaos , Vagiakos Ioannis
Published: October 2024

The synthesis, isolation, and characterisation of well-defined low-valent actinide complexes are reviewed with a main focus on compounds featuring uranium and thorium metal centres in formal oxidation states ≤ +3. The importance of the ligand environment in enabling access to these highly reactive species, as well as its influence on ground state electronic configurations and their reactivity, are emphasised. Furthermore, we highlight cyclic voltammetry (C.V.) studies as a more widely used method that can guide the synthesis of these highly reducing species.
Identification of Twenty-Two New Complete Genome Sequences of Honeybee Viruses Detected in Apis mellifera carnica Worker Bees from Slovenia
Authors: Šimenc Kramar Laura , Toplak Ivan
Published: October 2024

In this study, honeybee viruses were identified in naturally infected honeybee colonies (Apis mellifera carnica). From nine selected samples of clinically affected and ten samples of healthy honeybee colonies, different strains of honeybee viruses were first detected using quantitative real-time RT-PCR methods. Twenty-two nucleotide sequences of the complete genomes of honeybee viruses were identified using the Illumina Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) method: acute bee paralysis virus (ABPV) (n = 4), black queen cell virus (BQCV) (n = 3), chronic bee paralysis virus (CBPV) (n = 2), deformed wing virus (DWV) (n = 5), Lake Sinai virus (LSV) (n = 4), sacbrood bee virus (SBV) (n = 1), Apis rhabdovirus-1 (ARV-1) (n = 1), bee macula-like virus (BeeMLV) (n = 1) and Hubei partiti-like virus 34 (HPLV34) (n = 1). The nucleotide sequences of ABPV, BQCV, DWV and SBV are the first complete genomes of these viruses identified in Slovenia and they represent an important contribution to our understanding of the genetic diversity of honeybee viruses. ARV-1, BeeMLV and HPLV34 were detected and sequenced for the first time in Slovenia.
Feeding Intolerance—A Key Factor in the Management of Acute Pancreatitis: A Review
Authors: Górski Piotr , Swidnicka-Siergiejko Agnieszka
Published: October 2024

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is one of the most common diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, which in 20% of cases can turn into a severe form, with mortality reaching up to 30%. One of the cornerstones of AP treatment is early nutritional treatment. Feeding intolerance (FI) occurs in up to 25% of patients with AP and is associated with a more severe disease course and poorer clinical outcome. Feeding intolerance can have a multifaceted clinical presentation. The early identification of FI risk factors and appropriately conducted nutritional treatment are critical to the course of the disease. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge of feeding intolerance in AP, its pathomechanisms and risk factors, and its impact on disease progression. We also present suggestions for the management of feeding intolerance.
The Fragility of Statistical Significance in the Use of Aspirin in Prevention of Venous Thromboembolism Events Following Total Joint Arthroplasty: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Williamson Tyler K. , Martinez Victor H. , Verlinsky Luke , Brennan Jacob L. , Buttacavoli Frank A.
Published: October 2024

Background/Objectives: Comparative studies often use the p value to convey statistical significance, but fragility indices (FI) and fragility quotients (FQ) may better signify statistical strength. The use of aspirin as venous thromboembolism (VTE) chemoprophylaxis following elective arthroplasty has been debated between the orthopedic and cardiac fields. The purpose of this study was to apply both the FI and FQ to evaluate the degree of statistical fragility in the total joint arthroplasty (TJA) literature regarding aspirin (ASA) use for VTE prevention. Methods: We performed a systematic search for TJA clinical trials from 2004 to 2023 reporting comparisons between ASA and other chemoprophylaxis methods for VTE. The FI of each outcome was calculated through reversal of a single outcome event until significance was reversed. The FQ was calculated by dividing each fragility index by study sample size and interquartile range (IQR) was calculated. SPSS Meta-analysis function was used to calculate the Mean Effect Size Estimate and 95% Confidence Intervals for each outcome. Results: Of 245 articles screened, 39 met search criteria, with 10 RCTs included for analysis (n = 11,481 patients). There were 38 outcome events reported, with three significant (p < 0.05) outcomes and 35 non-significant (p > 0.05) outcomes identified. The overall FI and FQ for all 38 outcomes were 6 (IQR: 5–7) and 0.059 (IQR: 0.044–0.064), respectively. Seven studies (70%) reported a loss-to-follow-up (LTF) greater than the overall FI. There was no increased risk of DVT, PE, or mortality with use of ASA (all p > 0.2). Conclusions: Despite showing non-inferiority in preventing venous thromboembolic events in TJA overall, the highest-level peer-reviewed literature concerning aspirin use following total joint arthroplasty is considered statistically fragile due to high loss-to-follow-up. In addition to the reporting of the p value, the fragility index and quotient can further provide insight into the strength and trustworthiness of outcome measures.
Long-Term Quality of Life Among Patients Undergoing Endoscopic Pituitary Gland Surgery
Authors: Carmel Neiderman Narin Nard , Kaufman Shay , Bilaus Ran , Wengier Anat , Ziv Baran Tomer , Abergel Avraham
Published: October 2024

Introduction/Objectives: The endoscopic approach to skull base lesions is widely regarded as less invasive and associated with reduced morbidity, offering favorable outcomes, particularly in terms of short-term quality of life (QOL). However, to date, long-term assessments of both nasal function and tumor-related QOL remain limited. To evaluate patients’ long-term nasal- and tumor-related QOL after endoscopic endonasal resection of pituitary tumors and to detect predictors for poor postoperative QOL. Study Design: This study was a prospective cohort study. Methods: All patients with pituitary adenomas who underwent trans-sphenoidal surgery at Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center between 2014 and 2021 were recruited. Recruited patients completed the Anterior Skull Base Disease-Specific QOL (ASBS-Q) questionnaire and the Sinonasal Outcome Test 22 (SNOT-22) questionnaire before surgery and 1, 2, and 3–5 years after surgery. Clinical data were collected and analyzed. Results: The study included 43 patients (18 women). No significant decrease was observed in tumor-related quality of life (QOL) scores, measured by ASBS-Q and SNOT-22, throughout the 5-year follow-up period. SNOT-22 score differences from the preoperative baseline at years 1, 3, and 5 were 0.81 [−4.84–6.58], 3.35 [−4.32–11.02], and 3.73 [−2.22–9.68], respectively, with no statistically significant changes. ASBS-Q scores similarly showed no significant changes over time. Subgroup analyses revealed that tumor characteristics (secreting vs. non-secreting, size), surgical factors (intraoperative cerebrospinal fluid leak, gross tumor resection, use of nasoseptal flap), and endocrine remission did not significantly impact QOL (p > 0.05 for all variables). Conclusions: Our study demonstrated that patients who underwent endoscopic pituitary lesion resection maintained high nasal- and tumor-related quality of life over a 5-year follow-up period. However, given the limitations of our study, further multi-center studies with larger patient populations are warranted to validate these results.
Bodily Distress Syndrome Is Associated with Impaired Physical Fitness—A Population Based Cross-Sectional Study (DanFunD)
Authors: Bavnhøj Rebecca Dalby , Bjerregaard Anne Ahrendt , Madsen Anja Lykke , Schovsbo Signe Ulfbeck , Petersen Marie Weinreich , Fink Per , Winther-Jensen Matilde , Jørgensen Torben , Kårhus Line Lund , Dantoft Thomas Meinertz
Published: October 2024

Background and Aim: Functional somatic disorders (FSDs) are a unifying diagnosis that includes functional somatic syndromes (FSSs) as well as the unifying diagnostic construct of bodily distress syndrome (BDS). FSDs are characterized by persistent and troublesome physical symptoms that are prevalent across all medical settings and for which no clinical tests can establish a definitive diagnosis. The aim of this study was to explore associations between BDSs and objective measurements of body composition, cardiorespiratory health, and physical performance. Methods: Analyses are based on data from the Danish population-based cohort study, DanFunD, comprising data on 9656 participants aged 18–76 years and BDS case status, which was established using self-reported questionnaires. Adjusted multiple linear regression analysis was employed to evaluate associations between BDS and different measures of body composition, cardiorespiratory health, and physical performance assessed as part of a general health examination. Results: Compared to controls, individuals with single- or multi-organ BDS exhibited less optimal body compositions characterized by a higher BMI and fat percentage and larger waist circumference, as well as impaired cardiorespiratory health and reduced physical performance (lower maximal oxygen consumption and lower hand grip strength). Further, individuals categorized with multi-organ BDS had a less healthy body composition, lower cardiorespiratory health, and lower physical performance compared to individuals with single-organ BDS. Conclusions: In this cross-sectional study, we found BDS to be associated with suboptimal body composition, impaired cardiorespiratory health, and reduced physical performance. Individuals with multi-organ BDS tended to exhibit lower physical fitness or reduced cardiorespiratory health than individuals with single-organ BDS.
Thyroid Gland Diffuse Lipomatosis: A Case Study and Comprehensive Literature Review
Authors: Emmanouilidou Angeliki , Karanikas Michail , Pazaitou-Panayiotou Kalliopi , Michalopoulos Nickos
Published: October 2024

Diffuse lipomatosis of the thyroid (DLT) is an uncommon condition where mature fat cells infiltrate the thyroid gland, disrupting its normal structure. Although rare, it typically manifests as neck enlargement or symptoms of compression, including breathing difficulties, trouble swallowing, and voice changes, which can complicate diagnosis. This report presents a case of a 61-year-old woman with DLT, who exhibited a multinodular goiter and progressive neck swelling, and examines 53 additional cases from the existing literature. The analysis indicates that DLT is frequently misdiagnosed because of its similarities with other thyroid disorders. The precise mechanism underlying its development remains uncertain, but theories include oxygen deprivation in tissues, developmental abnormalities, and disruptions in fat metabolism. Surgical removal is the preferred treatment, especially for patients experiencing symptoms, and has shown favorable long-term outcomes. Additional studies should aim to elucidate the exact cause of DLT and enhance diagnostic precision, particularly in distinguishing it from other fat-containing thyroid lesions such as amyloid goiter and adenolipomas. A deeper understanding of this condition will inform better treatment approaches and enhance patient outcomes for this uncommon but significant thyroid disorder.
Increased Risk of Osteoporotic Vertebral Compression Fractures Following Epidural Steroid Injections in Patients with Lumbar Degenerative Disease: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Chen Hao-Wen , Wu Wen-Tien , Chang Chia-Ming , Yu Tzai-Chiu , Chen Ing-Ho , Yeh Kuang-Ting
Published: October 2024

Background/Objectives: Lumbar degenerative disease is a common age-related condition, with epidural steroid injection (ESI) being a widely employed conservative treatment approach. However, the potential effect of ESI on osteoporosis and fracture risk remains unclear. This study investigated the risk of osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCFs) in patients with lumbar degenerative disease who underwent ESI treatment. Methods: A cohort of 64 patients who received ESI treatment and a control group of 256 patients were included in this study. Demographic data, clinical characteristics, and follow-up information were collected. Cox proportional hazards models were used to analyze risk factors for OVCF, and subgroup analyses were conducted. Results: OVCF was more common in the ESI group than in the control group (hazard ratio [HR]: 3.49, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.06–11.43, p = 0.039). After confounding factors were adjusted for, ESI remained an independent risk factor for OVCF (HR: 4.60, 95% CI: 1.01–20.89, p = 0.048). In a subgroup analysis, lower socioeconomic status was associated with higher OVCF risk (HR: 11.82, 95% CI: 1.06–131.26, p = 0.044). The ESI group had improved short-term pain relief, with nonsignificant long-term effects. Conclusions: Patients with lumbar degenerative disease receiving ESI treatment are at an increased risk of OVCF, particularly those with lower socioeconomic status. These findings underscore the importance of regular bone density monitoring and fracture prevention following ESI treatment. Clinicians should carefully weigh the short-term benefits of ESI against the long-term risks and develop individualized follow-up plans for high-risk patients.
Crystallized Intelligence, Fluid Intelligence, and Need for Cognition: Their Longitudinal Relations in Adolescence
Authors: Scherrer Vsevolod , Breit Moritz , Preckel Franzis
Published: October 2024

Investment theory and related theoretical approaches suggest a dynamic interplay between crystallized intelligence, fluid intelligence, and investment traits like need for cognition. Although cross-sectional studies have found positive correlations between these constructs, longitudinal research testing all of their relations over time is scarce. In our pre-registered longitudinal study, we examined whether initial levels of crystallized intelligence, fluid intelligence, and need for cognition predicted changes in each other. We analyzed data from 341 German students in grades 7–9 who were assessed twice, one year apart. Using multi-process latent change score models, we found that changes in fluid intelligence were positively predicted by prior need for cognition, and changes in need for cognition were positively predicted by prior fluid intelligence. Changes in crystallized intelligence were not significantly predicted by prior Gf, prior NFC, or their interaction, contrary to theoretical assumptions. This pattern of results was largely replicated in a model including all constructs simultaneously. Our findings support the notion that intelligence and investment traits, particularly need for cognition, positively interact during cognitive development, but this interplay was unexpectedly limited to Gf.
Holistic Sensor-Based Approach for Assessing Community Mobility and Participation of Manual Wheelchair Users in the Real World
Authors: McClatchey Grace , Goršič Maja , Adelman Madisyn R. , Kephart Wesley C. , Rammer Jacob R.
Published: October 2024

Given the unique challenges faced by manual wheelchair users, improving methods to accurately measure and enhance their participation in community life is critical. This study explores a comprehensive method to evaluate the real-world community mobility and participation of manual wheelchair users by combining GPS mobility tracking, heart rate, and activity journals. Collecting qualitative and quantitative measures such as the life space assessment, wheelchair user confidence scale, and physical performance tests alongside GPS mobility tracking from ten manual wheelchair users provided insight into the complex relationship between physical, psychological, and social factors that can impact their daily community mobility and participation. This study found significant, strong correlations between the recorded journal time outside of the home and the GPS mean daily heart rate (r = −0.750, p = 0.032) as well as between the upper limb strength assessments with cardiovascular assessments, physiological confidence, and GPS participation indicators (0.732 < r < 0.884, 0.002 < p < 0.039). This method of manual wheelchair user assessment reveals the complex relationships between different aspects of mobility and participation. It provides a means of enhancing the ability of rehabilitation specialists to focus rehabilitation programs toward the areas that will help manual wheelchair users improve their quality of life.
Digital Economy as a Buffer: Alleviating the Adverse Effects of Land Resource Mismatch on Food Security
Authors: Li Wenjie , Guo Guanyu , Gu Huangying , Lai Shuhao , Duan Yuanjie , Li Chengming
Published: October 2024

In the era of the digital economy (DE), technology factors and data factors, like a two-wheel drive, have not only redefined the mode of production but also innovatively reshaped production relations. To examine how the DE can ensure food security (FS) in China, this study explores the negative impacts of land resource mismatch (LRM) on FS, the mechanisms of the impacts, and the critical role played by the DE in mitigating its negative impacts, based on China’s provincial-level panel data from 2011 to 2022. This study finds that, first, LRM leads to a reduction in food production, which, in turn, threatens FS, and this conclusion remains robust after a series of robustness tests. Second, the heterogeneity analysis finds that LRM has a greater negative impact on FS in regions with high urbanization levels, regions with a short tenure of officials, and regions that are not major food-producing regions. Finally, in a further analysis, the specific channels and solution paths of the negative impact of LRM on FS are explored in depth. LRM negatively affects the material base and production capacity of food production, including reducing the supply of land, labor, and capital factors for food production; the DE reduces the negative impact of LRM on FS through the use of digital technology and open government data.
Landscape Agroecology: Methodologies and Applications for the Design of Sustainable Agroecosystems
Authors: Altieri Miguel A. , Nicholls Clara I. , de Molina Manuel González , Rojas Angel Salazar
Published: October 2024

Agroecosystem function is related to the positioning of the agroecosystem and its connectivity relationship with the surrounding landscape. Herein, three methodologies are presented, which allow assessment of the links between agroecosystems and the surrounding matrix, yielding information for promoting patterns and mechanisms that foster biodiversity and the provision of multiple ecosystem services such as biological pest control, as well as energy flows and material exchanges. The three methodologies are complementary when assessing agrolandscape-level interactions in situations of regional agroecological transition. Through the use of 11 indicators, a methodology (Assessment of Beneficial Insect Habitat Suitability-ABIHS) was applied in two northern California vineyards to determine whether each agrolandscape provided suitable environmental opportunities to sponsor biological insect pest control. The Main Agroecological Structure [MAS] applied in Chilean family farms elucidates some of the relationships between farms and their biophysical environment, generating data to analyze the links between agroecosystem landscapes, management practices, and insect diversity in family farms. Social Agrarian metabolism (SAM) applied in Spanish agrolandscapes quantifies the biophysical and energy flows in agricultural systems, testing whether such flows are capable of reproducing and/or improving fund elements such as soil, biodiversity, and landscape vegetation in successive production cycles. The three methodologies provide key information for the design of sustainable agroecosystems in the context of an agroecological transition.
Spatially Explicit Model for Assessing the Impacts of Groundwater Protection Measures in the Vicinity of the Hranice Abyss
Authors: Sedláček Jozef , Vavrouchová Hana , Chytrý Kryštof , Ulrich Ondřej , Oppeltová Petra , Geršl Milan , Kohoutková Kristýna , Klepárník Radim , Kučera Petr , Vlček Vítězslav , Šimečková Jana , Žallmannová Eva
Published: October 2024

This study introduces a novel spatially explicit modeling framework developed to quantify the secondary environmental benefits of groundwater protection strategies in karst landscapes, with a specific application to the Hranice Abyss region. The model employs a multi-criteria decision analysis, integrated with hydrological modeling and a high-resolution random forest-based prediction algorithm, to downscale land surface temperature (LST) in order to obtain high-resolution 1 × 1 m spatial results. The primary contribution of this research lies in its capacity to assess not only the core objectives of groundwater protection but also its wider environmental impacts, including enhanced stormwater retention and the mitigation of land surface temperature increases. Key model predictors include land use and land cover data, and the framework is adaptable across diverse landscape types. In the case study area, water retention capacity demonstrated an increase of up to 30%, with an average rise in precipitation retention of 18.2 mm per microbasin. However, reductions in surface temperature were more modest, with a maximum decrease of 7.3%, corresponding to an average temperature drop of 1.5 °C. The model further identified pronounced seasonal and land-use-specific variations in surface temperature, particularly on agricultural land, where temperature fluctuations reached up to 2.6 °C between pre- and post-harvest periods. The findings of this study offer critical insights into how targeted land-use interventions can not only safeguard groundwater resources but also enhance landscape resilience to climate change. As such, this modeling approach provides an essential tool for the advancement of sustainable water resource management and climate-adaptive environmental planning.
Chronic Copper Bilysinate Poisoning in Five Texel Sheep: A Case Report
Authors: Pivariu Dalma , Oros Adrian Nechita , Tabaran Alexandru , Caloni Francesca , Bolfa Pompei , Nagy Andras-Laszlo
Published: October 2024

Copper is an essential trace element but becomes toxic in overexposed animals. Sheep are the domestic species most prone to chronic copper poisoning, as a slight increase in the dietary concentration can lead to liver accumulation and the development of clinical signs in this species. Common sources of copper in the diet are feed additives and mineral supplements, which are commonly used in pigs and poultry. Recently, new copper supplements were registered for animal nutrition, including copper bilysinate. This study describes an episode of presumed chronic copper poisoning in Five Texel sheep, which were exposed to a compound feed containing copper bilysinate. Four weeks after the introduction of the compound feed into the diet, the first animal started to show typical clinical signs of chronic copper poisoning and died, followed by another animal a week later. Despite removing the compound feed from the diet, a third sheep died 3 weeks later. Two animals survived and fully recovered. Necropsy and histology showed characteristic gross and microscopical lesions typical of copper poisoning. The case report highlights the potential toxic effect of copper bilysinate in sheep.
Wear and Friction Characteristics of In Situ TiC-Reinforced Ti3SiC2-Ti5Si3 Composites Against 100Cr6 Steel Counterpart
Authors: Benamor Abdessabour , Benamor Hiba , Hadji Youcef , Dey Maharshi , Chiker Nabil , Haddad Adel , Badji Riad , Tricoteaux Arnaud , Erauw Jean-Pierre , Salhi Merouane , Hadji Mohamed
Published: October 2024

In this study, the dry sliding characteristics of a Ti3SiC2/Ti5Si3 matrix reinforced with different TiC contents against a 100Cr6 steel ball were investigated. The composites were fabricated using the spark plasma sintering method with Ti, SiC, and C powders. SEM revealed that the composites possessed damage tolerance behavior, where grain pull-out, buckling, delamination, and diffuse microcracking were observed. In comparison, the unreinforced composite showed severe adhesive wear and tribo-oxidative wear mechanisms. The integration of the TiC phase in the Ti3SiC2/Ti5Si3 matrix enhanced the wear resistance by at least one order of magnitude. A new wear regime was observed in the TiC-reinforced composites, classified as mild wear, where tribo-oxidation and third-body abrasion were dominant, with ferrous deposits on the sliding surfaces.