bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Medical Device-Associated Infections Caused by Biofilm-Forming Microbial Pathogens and Controlling Strategies
Authors: Mishra Akanksha , Aggarwal Ashish , Khan Fazlurrahman
Published: July 2024

Hospital-acquired infections, also known as nosocomial infections, include bloodstream infections, surgical site infections, skin and soft tissue infections, respiratory tract infections, and urinary tract infections. According to reports, Gram-positive and Gram-negative pathogenic bacteria account for up to 70% of nosocomial infections in intensive care unit (ICU) patients. Biofilm production is a main virulence mechanism and a distinguishing feature of bacterial pathogens. Most bacterial pathogens develop biofilms at the solid-liquid and air-liquid interfaces. An essential requirement for biofilm production is the presence of a conditioning film. A conditioning film provides the first surface on which bacteria can adhere and fosters the growth of biofilms by creating a favorable environment. The conditioning film improves microbial adherence by delivering chemical signals or generating microenvironments. Microorganisms use this coating as a nutrient source. The film gathers both inorganic and organic substances from its surroundings, or these substances are generated by microbes in the film. These nutrients boost the initial growth of the adhering bacteria and facilitate biofilm formation by acting as a food source. Coatings with combined antibacterial efficacy and antifouling properties provide further benefits by preventing dead cells and debris from adhering to the surfaces. In the present review, we address numerous pathogenic microbes that form biofilms on the surfaces of biomedical devices. In addition, we explore several efficient smart antiadhesive coatings on the surfaces of biomedical device-relevant materials that manage nosocomial infections caused by biofilm-forming microbial pathogens.
Mutations in embB406 Are Associated with Low-Level Ethambutol Resistance in Canadian Mycobacterium tuberculosis Isolates
Authors: Hiebert Morgan , Sharma Meenu K. , Rabb Melissa , Karlowsky Lisa , Bergman Kiana , Soualhine Hafid
Published: July 2024

In Mycobacterium tuberculosis, molecular predictions of ethambutol resistance rely primarily on the detection of mutations within embB. However, discordance between embB406 mutations and gold standard phenotypic drug sensitivity testing (DST) questions the significance of embB406 mutations used in molecular DST. This study tabulates embB mutations found in Canadian M. tuberculosis isolates and evaluates the impact of specific mutations on ethambutol resistance. The National Reference Centre for Mycobacteriology culture collection (n = 2796) was screened for isolates with embB mutations. Phenotypic DST was performed on the BACTEC™ MGIT™ 960 at ethambutol concentrations of 2–5 μg/mL. Whole genome sequencing was used for drug resistance predictions, phylogenomics and single nucleotide polymorphism analysis. Detection of resistance-associated embB mutations corresponded to a positive predictive value of 64.3%, negative predictive value of 99.2%, 98.7% specificity, and 73.3% sensitivity compared to phenotypic DST. Two embB406 mutation subtypes (Gly406Asp, Gly406Ala) were found among 16 isolates, of which 12 were sensitive at 5 µg/mL ethambutol with variable resistance between 2–4 µg/mL. A novel frameshift mutation in regulator embR (Gln258fs) was found in nine isolates. Mutations in embB406 were associated with low-level ethambutol resistance undetectable at the recommended critical concentration (5 μg/mL). These novel mutations may exacerbate variability in ethambutol resistance.
Rolling Bearing Fault Diagnosis Based on CEEMDAN and CNN-SVM
Authors: Shi Lei , Liu Wenchao , You Dazhang , Yang Sheng
Published: July 2024

The vibration signals collected by acceleration sensors are interspersed with noise interference, which increases the difficulty of fault diagnosis for rolling bearings. For this reason, a rolling bearing fault diagnosis method based on complete ensemble empirical model decomposition with adaptive noise (CEEMDAN) and improved convolutional neural network (CNN) is proposed. Firstly, the original vibration signal is decomposed into a series of intrinsic modal function (IMF) components using the CEEMDAN algorithm, the components are filtered according to the correlation coefficients and the signals are reconstructed. Secondly, the reconstructed signals are converted into a two-dimensional grey-scale map and input into a convolutional neural network to extract the features. Lastly, the features are inputted into a support vector machine (SVM) with the optimised parameters of the grey wolf optimiser (GWO) to perform the identification and classification. The experimental results show that the rolling bearing fault diagnosis method based on CEEMDAN and CNN-SVM proposed in this paper can significantly reduce the noise interference, and its average fault diagnosis accuracy is as high as 99.25%. Therefore, it is feasible to apply it in the field of rolling bearing fault diagnosis.
The Direct Formation of an Iron Citrate Complex Using a Metallurgical Slag as an Iron Source for Micropollutant Removal via the Photo-Fenton Process
Authors: Arzate Salgado Sandra Yazmin , Yañez-Aulestia Ana , Ramírez-Zamora Rosa-María
Published: July 2024

Following the goals of the circular economy, this work demonstrates that an industrial by-product can be used in environmental remediation. Metallurgical slag and citric acid were used to form an Fe:Cit complex by simultaneously carrying out the lixiviation of the iron and the chelating stages with an 87% iron recovery. This complex was evaluated in the photo-Fenton process to produce HO• through salicylic acid dosimetry or salicylic acid hydroxylation, producing 0.13 ± 0.1 mM HO• after 30 min of operation; such a value is three orders of magnitude higher than the one reported for the metallurgical slag (as a heterogeneous catalyst, 22 μM) in the photo-Fenton-like process. The system was tested for its ability to degrade a mixture of drugs, including dexamethasone (DEX), naproxen (NAP), and ketorolac (KTR), which are often used to treat the symptoms of COVID-19. The drug degradation tests were performed in two stages. In the first stage, the Fe:Cit complex from the metallurgical slag was compared to the one formed by analytical-grade reactants; the drug degradation was faster for the former, with the major difference being observed at 5 cm and 500 W/m2. Here, 85–90% of the drugs was degraded in 5 min using Fe:Cit from slag, while at least 20 min was necessary to achieve such degradation with the analytical reagent, conceivably because of the trace compounds being lixiviated from the slag. Then, the effects of the liquid depth (5, 10, and 15 cm) and irradiance (250, 500, and 750 W/m2) were tested; the pseudo-first-order kinetic degradation constants for the three model pollutants were in the range of 0.009 > kD > 0.09 min−1, showing that degradation is more feasible for DEX than for NAP and KRT because the radical attack feasibility is related to the molecular structures.
Was “Returning to Normal” More Effective? Comparing Online and Offline Learning in English as a Foreign Language
Authors: Topping Keith , Erokhova Natalia , Sokolova Nataliia
Published: July 2024

The aim of this research was to investigate whether a post-pandemic return to more face-to-face teaching was any more effective than during-pandemic online teaching, using examination results as an indicator. It compares the two middle years of a four-year undergraduate degree in English as a Foreign Language over two consecutive years. Year 1 saw 73% of the time spent online teaching and learning, while Year 2 spent 25%. The relative effects on the examination results of more versus less online were compared. The participants were 105 Methodologists (future teachers) and 272 Translators (N = 377), predominantly female (83%). Entry scores were checked to ensure the similarity of the cohorts. Examinations were taken twice a year. On one course, more online yielded better performance on both occasions. On three others, more online yielded better performance in the Winter but equivalent performance in the Summer. Of 24 Effect Sizes (ESs), only 3 were in favour of more offline. The average ES was 0.10 in favour of more online, 0.21 in Winter and 0.05 in Summer. Thus, more online learning was modestly more effective than less online learning. This had implications for course designers/university managers in terms of the degree of return to face-to-face learning.
Modeling of Axial Displacements of Transformer Windings for Frequency Response Analysis Diagnosis
Authors: Trela Katarzyna , Gawrylczyk Konstanty Marek
Published: July 2024

The aim of the article is to present the method of modeling the frequency response of the transformer windings with axial displacements. Frequency response analysis (often referred to as FRA or SFRA) is a powerful and sensitive method for testing the mechanical integrity of transformer cores, windings, and press frames in power transformers. The proper interpretation of FRA results is crucial in assessing winding faults. Computer modeling of transformer active part deformations is one way to expand knowledge about the impact of mechanical faults on the shape of the frequency response (FR) curve. The data collected from these models can be used as training data sets for artificial intelligence tools. An automatic tool developed from this approach would significantly improve the accuracy of the FRA method and simplify the interpretation and evaluation of results. The described study utilizes new types of lumped parameter models with input data obtained from the FEM analysis. The research conducted shows the influence of the winding axial deformation on the frequency response curve and provides information on the sensitivity of the FR curve’s shape to this type of deformation. A series of tests, which involved measuring and simulating typical axial damages, were conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of the presented algorithms.
Study on the Pore Structure Characterization of the Limestone Reservoir of the Taiyuan Formation in the Ordos Basin
Authors: Zhang Daofeng , Liu Yan , Dong Guodong , Liu Baoxian , Li Cheng , Zeng Xu
Published: July 2024

In this paper, the limestone reservoir of the Upper Permian Taiyuan Formation in the Ordos Basin is taken as the research object. Through various analysis and testing methods, the characterization and classification evaluation of pore structure were carried out. The core porosity and pore structure characteristics were analyzed using nuclear magnetic resonance, gas measurement, and CT scanning. Based on the characteristics of the limestone reservoir, the optimal parameters of NMR testing were calibrated, the NMR testing method of limestone reservoir properties was established, and the NMR porosity of limestone was calculated. Using the core gray map obtained using CT scanning imaging technology, the three-dimensional digital core model of limestone was constructed, its pore space was extracted, and the porosity, pore fractal dimension, and tortuosity were calculated. The results show that with the thermodynamic experiment, the porosity of the sample will remain basically unchanged after 180 min, and the pressure in the sample was measured after 4 h and no air leakage was found. The T2 spectrum of saturated marlite is in the form of three peaks, two peaks, and one peak. On the whole, the p1 peak of the T2 spectrum of limestone corresponds to micropores, and most of the p2 and p3 peaks correspond to mesopores–macropores. The pore size of high porosity samples is 150–350 nm, and the micropores are well developed; the pore size of medium porosity samples is 80–150 nm, and some samples are well developed; the pore size of low porosity samples is mostly bimodal, with two peaks >> 300 nm and <<100 nm. With the increase in depth, the porosity decreases gradually, the fractal dimension decreases, and the tortuosity increases. The research results provide data support for the characterization of the pore structure of the limestone reservoir in the Taiyuan Formation of the Ordos Basin.
Designing a Dispatch Engine for Hybrid Renewable Power Stations Using a Mixed-Integer Linear Programming Technique
Authors: Shadoul Myada , Al Abri Rashid , Yousef Hassan , Al Shereiqi Abdullah
Published: July 2024

Hybrid power plants have recently emerged as reliable and flexible electricity generation stations by combining multiple renewable energy sources, energy storage systems (ESS), and fossil-based output. However, the effective operation of the hybrid power plants to ensure continuous energy dispatch under challenging conditions is a complex task. This paper proposes a dispatch engine (DE) based on mixed-integer linear programming (MILP) for the planning and management of hybrid power plants. To maintain the committed electricity output, the dispatch engine will provide schedules for operation over extended time periods as well as monitor and reschedule the operation in real time. Through precise prediction of the load and the photovoltaic (PV) and wind power outputs, the proposed approach guarantees optimum scheduling. The precise predictions of the load, PV, and wind power levels are achieved by employing a predictor of the Feed-Forward Neural Network (FFNN) type. With such a dispatch engine, the operational costs of the hybrid power plants and the use of diesel generators (DGs) are both minimized. A case study is carried out to assess the feasibility of the proposed dispatch engine. Real-time measurement data pertaining to load and the wind and PV power outputs are obtained from different locations in the Sultanate of Oman. The real-time data are utilized to predict the future levels of power output from PV and from the wind farm over the course of 24 h. The predicted power levels are then used in combination with a PV–Wind–DG–ESS–Grid hybrid plant to evaluate the performance of the proposed dispatch engine. The proposed approach is implemented and simulated using MATLAB. The results of the simulation reveal the proposed FFNN’s powerful forecasting abilities. In addition, the results demonstrate that adopting the proposed DE can minimize the use of DG units and reduce a plant’s running expenses.
Response of Carbon Energy Storage to Land Use/Cover Changes in Shanxi Province, China
Authors: Tang Huan , Liu Xiao , Xie Ruijie , Lin Yuqin , Fang Jiawei , Yuan Jing
Published: July 2024

Carbon storage services play an important role in maintaining ecosystem stability. Land use/cover change (LUCC) is the main factor leading to changes in ecosystem carbon storage. Understanding the impact of LUCC on regional carbon storage changes is crucial for protecting regional ecosystems and promoting sustainable socio-economic development. This paper selects Shanxi province as the study area and explores the spatial and temporal evolution characteristics of carbon storage in Shanxi province based on the InVEST model and univariate spatial autocorrelation. The results show that the total carbon storage in Shanxi Province in 2000, 2010, and 2020 is 513.51 × 104 t C, 513.46 × 104 t C, and 509.29 × 104 t C, respectively. High carbon storage areas are distributed in forest and grassland land types, while low carbon storage areas are widely distributed in building land in urban metropolitan areas. Shanxi Province is mainly dominated by farmland, which has decreased by 3448.60 km2 in the past 20 years. Grassland has decreased by 1588.31 km2 and the area of building land has increased by 4205.73 km2. Due to the influence of carbon conversion among different land use types, the total carbon storage loss of Shanxi Province in the past 20 years was 4.21 × 104 t C. The transfer of farmland resulted in an increase in carbon stock of 14.46 × 104 t C. The transfer of grassland resulted in an increase of 17.15 × 104 t C, while the transfer of forest resulted in a decrease of 41.44 × 104 t C. The increase in land use types with low carbon density and the decrease in land use types with high carbon density led to the decrease in carbon storage in Shanxi Province. Furthermore, social factors were more likely to influence the carbon storage than natural factors, and the influence of social factors was often negative. On this basis, regional development countermeasures were proposed for the current situation of carbon storage in Shanxi Province and provide a scientific basis for Shanxi Province to achieve the carbon neutrality target.
Experimental Study for Understanding the Characteristics of a Floating Axis Wind Turbine under Wind and Wave Conditions
Authors: Senga Hidetaka , Kunishi Keitaro , Fujita Gaku , Imaoka Tomotake , Ohira Hiroyuki , Akimoto Hiromichi
Published: July 2024

Floating offshore wind turbines (FOWTs) are suitable for Japan’s coastal waters. As one of the unique concepts of FOWTs, the floating axis wind turbine (FAWT) is a type of vertical axis wind turbine (VAWT) that actively uses the features of VAWTs to specialize in an area of the floating type. In this study, FAWT behaviors under wind and wave conditions were experimentally investigated in a water tank to understand its dynamic characteristics. The experimental results reveal that although the floater of the FAWT is relatively small compared to its rotor size, its heave response is comparable to those of the other FOWTs using different floaters. Moreover, the FAWT shows a high stability under rated operation and during sudden changes in the wind.
Growth Differentiation Factor 15 and Matrix Metalloproteinase 3 in Plasma as Biomarkers for Neuropathy and Nephropathy in Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Billeson Karin , Baldimtsi Evangelia , Wahlberg Jeanette , Whiss Per A.
Published: July 2024

Diabetic neuropathy and nephropathy are common complications of type 1 diabetes (T1D). The symptoms are often elusive in the early stages, and available diagnostic methods can be improved using biomarkers. Matrix metalloproteinase 3 (MMP-3) has been identified in the kidneys and is thought to be involved in diabetic nephropathy. Growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF-15) has been suggested to have positive effects in diabetes, but is otherwise associated with adverse effects such as cardiovascular risk, declined kidney function, and neurodegeneration. This study aims to investigate plasma MMP-3 and GDF-15 as systemic biomarkers for diabetic neuropathy and nephropathy in T1D. The study involves patients with childhood-onset T1D (n = 48, age 38 ± 4 years) and a healthy control group (n = 30, age 38 ± 5 years). Neurophysiology tests, evaluations of albuminuria, and measurements of routine biochemical markers were conducted. The neuropathy impairment assessment (NIA) scoring system, where factors such as loss of sensation and weakened reflexes are evaluated, was used to screen for symptoms of neuropathy. MMP-3 and GDF-15 concentrations were determined in heparinized plasma using ELISA kits. In total, 9 patients (19%) had albuminuria, and 25 (52%) had diabetic neuropathy. No significant differences were found in MMP-3 concentrations between the groups. GDF-15 levels were higher in T1D, with median and interquartile range (IQR) of 358 (242) pg/mL in T1D and 295 (59) in controls (p < 0.001). In the merged patient group, a positive correlation was found between MMP-3 and plasma creatinine, a negative correlation was found between MMP-3 and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR; rho = −0.358, p = 0.012), and there was a positive correlation between GDF-15 and NIA (rho = 0.723, p < 0.001) and high-sensitive C-reactive protein (rho = 0.395, p = 0.005). MMP-3 was increased in macroalbuminuria and correlated positively with NIA only in the nine T1D patients with albuminuria (rho = 0.836, p = 0.005). The present study indicates that high MMP-3 is associated with low eGFR, high plasma creatinine, and macroalbuminuria, and that GDF-15 can be a biomarker for diabetic neuropathy in T1D. MMP-3 may be useful as biomarker for neuropathy in T1D with albuminuria.
Real-World Biomarkers for Pediatric Takayasu Arteritis
Authors: Peremans Lieselot , Twilt Marinka , Benseler Susanne M. , Grisaru Silviu , Kirton Adam , Myers Kimberly A. , Hamiwka Lorraine
Published: July 2024

Childhood-onset Takayasu arteritis (TA) is a rare, heterogeneous disease with limited diagnostic markers. Our objective was to identify and classify all candidates for biomarkers of TA diagnosis in children reported in the literature. A systematic literature review (PRISMA) of MEDLINE, EMBASE, Wiley Cochrane Library, ClinicalTrias.gov, and WHO ICTRP for articles related to TA in the pediatric age group between January 2000 and August 2023 was performed. Data on demographics, clinical features, laboratory measurements, diagnostic imaging, and genetic analysis were extracted. We identified 2026 potential articles, of which 52 studies (81% case series) met inclusion criteria. A total of 1067 TA patients were included with a peak onset between 10 and 15 years. Childhood-onset TA predominantly presented with cardiovascular, constitutional, and neurological symptoms. Laboratory parameters exhibited a low sensitivity and specificity. Imaging predominantly revealed involvement of the abdominal aorta and renal arteries, with magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) being the preferred imaging modality. Our review confirms the heterogeneous presentation of childhood-onset TA, posing significant challenges to recognition and timely diagnosis. Collaborative, multinational efforts are essential to better understand the natural course of childhood-onset TA and to identify accurate biomarkers to enhance diagnosis and disease management, ultimately improving patient outcomes.
Does Atrial Fibrillation at Diagnosis Change Prognosis in Patients with Aortic Stenosis?
Authors: Petrovic Olga , Vidanovic Stasa , Jovanovic Ivana , Paunovic Ivana , Rakocevic Ivana , Milasinovic Dejan , Tesic Milorad , Boskovic Nikola , Dukic Djordje , Ostojic Marina , Vratonjic Jelena , Mladenovic Aleksandra , Trifunovic-Zamaklar Danijela
Published: July 2024

Background: Aortic stenosis (AS) is a common valve disease and atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common cardiac arrhythmia, frequently associated with AS. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of AF on mortality in patients with moderate and severe AS. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 1070 consecutive moderate and severe AS patients (57% were male, age was 69 ± 10, severe AS 22.5%), who underwent transthoracic echocardiography from March 2018 to November 2021. AS severity was defined by specific threshold values with severe AS being defined by a peak velocity > 4 m/s, an MPG > 40 mmHg, and an AVA < 1 cm2 and moderated by a peak velocity of 3–4 m/s, an MPG 20–40 mmHg and an AVA 1–1.5 cm. Patients with AF were defined as those having a history of AF when AS was found on the index echocardiography. The follow-up assessment in December 2023 ascertained vital status and data on aortic valve replacement (AVR). Results: 790 (73.8%) patients were with sinus rhythm (SR) and 280 (26.2%) patients with AF. Mortality was higher in patients with AF than in those with SR (46% vs. 36.2% HR 1.424, 95% CI 1.121–1.809, p = 0.004). After adjusting for clinical confounders, mortality risk in AF relative to SR remained significant (HR 1.284, 95% CI 1.03–1.643, p = 0.047). Patients with AF demonstrated high mortality risk in the moderate aortic stenosis stratum (HR 1.376, 95% CI 1.059–1.788, p = 0.017), with even greater risk in the severe AS stratum (HR 1.644, 95% CI 1.038–2.603, p = 0.034) with significant interaction (p = 0.007). In patients with AF AVR demonstrated a protective effect on survival (HR 0.365, 95% CI 0.202–0.627, p < 0.001), but to a lesser degree than in patients with sinus rhythm (HR 0.376, 95% CI 0.250–0.561, p < 0.001) without significant interaction (p = 0.278). In patients with AF mortality risk was high in the conservative treatment stratum (HR 1.361, 95% CI 1.066–1.739, p = 0.014), in the AVR stratum mortality risk was higher but did not reach statistical significance (HR 1.823, 95% CI 0.973–3.414, p = 0.061). However, when corrected for echocardiographic variables strongly correlated with AF, AF was no longer independently associated with all-cause mortality. (HR 0.97 95% CI 0.709–1.323, p = 0.84). Conclusions: Patients with moderate and severe AS and AF have worse prognosis than patients with SR which can be explained by cardiac damage. AVR improves survival in patients with AF and with SR.
Role of Device-Assisted Enteroscopy in Crohn’s Disease
Authors: Catassi Giulia , Marmo Clelia , Gasbarrini Antonio , Riccioni Maria Elena
Published: July 2024

Crohn’s Disease (CD) is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the gastrointestinal tract, posing diagnostic and management challenges due to its potential involvement of any segment from the mouth to the anus. Device-assisted enteroscopy (DAE) has emerged as a significant advancement in the management of CD, particularly for its ability to access the small intestine—a region difficult to evaluate with conventional endoscopic methods. This review discusses the pivotal role of DAE in the nuanced management of CD, emphasizing its enhanced diagnostic precision and therapeutic efficacy. DAE techniques, including double-balloon enteroscopy (DBE), single-balloon enteroscopy (SBE), and the now-withdrawn spiral enteroscopy, enable comprehensive mucosal assessment, targeted biopsies, and therapeutic interventions like stricture dilation, bleeding control, and foreign body removal. Despite its benefits, DAE carries risks such as perforation, bleeding, and pancreatitis, which require careful procedural planning and a skilled execution. The review highlights DAE’s impact on reducing surgical interventions and improving patient outcomes through minimally invasive approaches, thereby enhancing the quality of life for patients with CD. Continuous improvement and research are essential in order to maximize DAE’s utility and safety in clinical practice.
Light Therapy in Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: A Systematic Review of Interventional Studies
Authors: Millot Florian , Endomba Francky Teddy , Forestier Nathalie
Published: July 2024

Background: Due to limitations in treatment strategies for post-traumatic stress disorders (PTSD), therapeutic options such as light therapy (LT) have garnered some interest in recent years. We aimed to review the effectiveness of LT in patients with PTSD. Methods: Using PubMed, PsycINFO, Web of Science, the Cochrane database, ClinicalTrials.gov, and PTSDpubs, we systematically searched for papers assessing the effect of LT in PTSD. We evaluated the risk of bias of included studies using the Cochrane handbook, and synthesized our findings following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines (PRISMA 2020). Results: From 140 initial papers, we included four randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and one single-arm study. The study sample size ranged between 15 and 82, the mean age (standard deviation) varied between 31.4 (8.8) and 44.9 (11.8) years, and LT was applied for four or six weeks. The risk of bias was low in three studies, and of some concern in the two other trials. Most studies reported no significant differences between LT and placebo regarding effects on subjective (sleep quality and insomnia severity) and objective sleep parameters. LT was associated with a significant improvement in PTSD symptom severity in the single-arm study and two RCTs, as well as a greater retention of extinction learning. Results on depression and anxiety were discrepant. Conclusions: This review revealed that relevant studies are scarce, with promising findings concerning PTSD symptoms, but inconsistencies for the other parameters. Further research projects are needed to better explore this topic.
Anal Fissure and Its Treatments: A Historical Review
Authors: Riboni Cristiana , Selvaggi Lucio , Cantarella Francesco , Podda Mauro , Bracchitta Salvatore , Mosca Vinicio , Cosenza Angelo , Cosenza Vincenzo , Selvaggi Francesco , Nardo Bruno , Pata Francesco
Published: July 2024

Anal fissure is one of the most common proctological pathologies. It consists of the formation of a longitudinal tear in the anoderm, causing pain and bleeding during and after defecation. When chronic, it can significantly negatively impact the quality of life of the affected patient. Currently, multiple therapeutic options are available, both medical and surgical. The objective of this article is to highlight the historical evolution in the physiopathological understanding and treatment of this disease, underlining the key moments in this history. This is the first article to summarize the milestones in the treatment of anal fissure from ancient to current times.
Effect of Modifiers on Self-Healing and Rheological Properties of Asphalt Binder
Authors: Zhu Qipeng , Liu Cuiran , Wang Yanhong , Su Yanzhen , Li Mingxia
Published: July 2024

The effects of four modifiers were studied to compare their roles in the self-healing ability of asphalt binder: elemental sulfur, with a known plasticizing effect; wax, containing long alkane chains (>C50) with a known crystallizing capability; a plastic oil, with short alkane chains (<C20); and a combination of the wax and plastic oil. The results indicated that the self-healing performance of asphalt binder was increased by each of the four modifiers at 25 °C. Sulfur provided the greatest improvement in self-healing capacity, followed by plastic oil, wax combined with plastic oil, and then wax. This was attributed to sulfur’s plasticizing effect, which is conducive to the self-diffusion of asphalt binder molecules. But at 40 °C, the wax, plastic oil, and wax + plastic oil modifiers weakened the self-healing capacity of asphalt binder, especially the wax modifier. In terms of percent recoverable strain, the asphalt binder modified by wax (long alkane chains) showed the highest percent recovery. The wax-modified asphalt binder also had the highest complex shear modulus compared to the other three modified binders and control binder. And its phase angle was lower than that of plastic oil-, sulfur-modified asphalt binder, and control binder.
Enhancing Pavement Durability: Comparative Rheological Evaluation of Conventional and Rejuvenated Reclaimed Binders under Aging Conditions
Authors: Dabiri Asmasadat , Silva Hugo M. R. D. , Oliveira Joel R. M.
Published: July 2024

A drawback of recycled mixtures containing reclaimed asphalt is their increased stiffness, further worsened by the accelerated aging of binders in extreme weather conditions. Previous studies have shown that while rejuvenating agents can mitigate some of these issues by improving flexibility and reducing brittleness, they often present challenges, such as performance variability and the potential for rutting. This study aims to develop an optimal blend of reclaimed bitumen, a rejuvenating agent, and pure bitumen to achieve rheological properties similar to a control 35/50 pen-grade bitumen for road paving. Hence, the rejuvenated binders comprised 30:70 blends of reclaimed asphalt bitumen and 50/70 pen-grade bitumen, adding 0.2% to 0.6% of a rejuvenating agent by mass of the reclaimed asphalt. Sample testing included conventional penetration grade, softening point, and viscosity tests, followed by dynamic shear rheometer tests under unaged, short-term, and long-term aging conditions. The results show that the binder blend with 0.4% rejuvenator closely resembles the rheological properties of 35/50 pen-grade bitumen. This blend exhibits a 20% to 55% stiffness reduction for recycled mixtures with 30% reclaimed asphalt. Notably, the rejuvenated binders exhibited a similar level of aging resistance to the control bitumen, with a marginal difference of less than 5% in aging ratios. Meanwhile, large strain amplitude tests showed the importance of defining maximum rejuvenating incorporation rates in recycled mixtures to avoid rutting problems, where binders with 0.4% rejuvenator doubled the rutting potential (Jnr values). This innovative study highlights the potential for enhancing recycled mixtures’ performance by evaluating rejuvenated reclaimed binders’ rheology subjected to different aging conditions, thus contributing to sustainability in pavement construction.
Effect of Different Administered Doses of Capsaicin and Titanium Implant Osseointegration
Authors: Bingül Muhammet Bahattin , Gul Mehmet , Dündar Serkan , Sökmen Kevser , Artas Gökhan , Polat Mehmet Emrah , Tanrisever Murat , Ozcan Erhan Cahit
Published: July 2024

Background and Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the histological and biochemical effects of capsaicin on implant osseointegration and oxidative stress. Materials and Methods: Male Wistar albino rats weighing between 250 and 300 g were used in this study. Twenty-four rats were randomly divided into three equal groups: implant + control (n = 8), implant + capsaicin-1 (n = 8), and implant + capsaicin-2 (n = 8). Additionally, 2.5 mm diameter and 4 mm length titanium implants were surgically integrated into the corticocancellous bone parts of the femurs. In the treatment groups, rats were injected intraperitoneally with 25 mg/kg (implant + capsaicin-1) and 50 mg/kg (implant + capsaicin-2) of capsaicin. No additional applications were made in the control group. Three rats in total died during and after the experiment as a result of the analyses performed on 21 animals. Results: The highest total antioxidant status value was found in capsaicin dose 2, according to the analysis. The control group had the highest total oxidant status and oxidative stress index values, while group 2 of capsaicin had the lowest. After analysis, we found that there was no observed positive effect on osteointegration in this study (p > 0.05), although the bone implant connection was higher in the groups treated with capsaicin. Conclusions: A positive effect on osteointegration was not observed in this study. This may be due to osteoclast activation. However, it was found that it has a positive effect on oxidative stress. Osteoclast activation may be the cause of this phenomenon. Capsaicin was found to have a positive effect on oxidative stress (p < 0.05). It was also observed to have a positive effect on oxidative stress.
Effect of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure after Pulmonary Vein Isolation in Obstructive Sleep Apnea Patients with Atrial Fibrillation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Trongtorsak Angkawipa , Khalil Omar , Krayem Hussein , Suwanwalaikorn Mathurin , Ding Kimberly R. , Polpichai Natchaya , Chokesuwattanaskul Ronpichai , Prasitlumkum Narut
Published: July 2024

Background: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) was associated with atrial fibrillation (AF) as well as the recurrence of AF after rhythm control strategy. However, the data on continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) and recurrent AF after catheter ablation with pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) remain unclear. We conducted this systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the effect of CPAP treatment in OSA patients after atrial fibrillation ablation. Methods: We searched MEDLINE and Embase databases from inception to September 2023 to identify studies that assess the effect of CPAP in OSA patients on the recurrence of AF after PVI. Data from each study were combined using the random effects model. Results: Eight studies (one randomized controlled trial and seven cohort studies) with 1487 OSA patients (660 in the CPAP group and 827 in the control group) were included. The use of CPAP in OSA patients was associated with significantly lower AF recurrence after PVI (odds ratio (OR) = 0.36, 95% conference interval (CI) 0.25–0.53, p < 0.001). The results of sensitivity analysis remain the same as the main analysis. Conclusions: Our meta-analysis demonstrated that CPAP treatment was associated with lower rates of AF recurrence after PVI.
Annexin A2: A Double-Edged Sword in Pathogen Infection
Authors: Wang Tianyu , Zhao Dengshuai , Zhang Yuanhang , Yu Dixi , Liu Guoping , Zhang Keshan
Published: July 2024

Annexin A2 (ANXA2) is a multifunctional calcium- and phospholipid-binding protein that plays an important role in various cells. During pathogen infections, ANXA2 modulates the nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) and cell apoptosis signaling pathways and guides the chemotaxis of inflammatory cells toward inflammation sites, thereby protecting the host organism through the modulation of the inflammatory response. In addition, ANXA2 can regulate immune responses, and in certain pathogen infections, it can interact with pathogen proteins to facilitate their invasion and proliferation. This review provides an overview of the research progress on how ANXA2 regulates pathogen infections.
Socioeconomic Disparities in Urban Forest Diversity and Structure in Green Areas of Santiago de Chile
Authors: Guevara Brian R. , Uribe Sandra V. , de la Maza Carmen L. , Villaseñor Nélida R.
Published: July 2024

Urban trees enhance biodiversity, provide ecosystem services, and improve quality of life in cities. Despite their benefits, trees are not distributed equitably, and many cities exhibit a “luxury effect”. Given the importance of public green space for providing access to urban tree benefits, we investigated the relationship between socioeconomic level and tree diversity and structure in 60 green areas in Santiago de Chile. Species richness and total tree abundance did not significantly vary among socioeconomic levels; however, a differential effect was found according to species origin. Introduced tree species exhibited similar abundance and species richness across socioeconomic levels, but native tree species were more abundant and richer in higher socioeconomic level areas compared to lower ones. Tree cover was higher in the high and medium socioeconomic level areas than in the low socioeconomic level area. A higher average DBH was found in the medium socioeconomic level area, which may be explained by older neighborhoods and a legacy of the luxury effect. Our findings reveal that socioeconomic groups are associated with differences in tree cover, width, and the number of native species in public green areas. Consequently, urban residents have different provisions of ecosystem services and opportunities to interact with natural heritage. Increasing the amount of tree cover and native species available to vulnerable groups will reduce disparities.
Research on Segmentation Method of Maize Seedling Plant Instances Based on UAV Multispectral Remote Sensing Images
Authors: Geng Tingting , Yu Haiyang , Yuan Xinru , Ma Ruopu , Li Pengao
Published: July 2024

The accurate instance segmentation of individual crop plants is crucial for achieving a high-throughput phenotypic analysis of seedlings and smart field management in agriculture. Current crop monitoring techniques employing remote sensing predominantly focus on population analysis, thereby lacking precise estimations for individual plants. This study concentrates on maize, a critical staple crop, and leverages multispectral remote sensing data sourced from unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). A large-scale SAM image segmentation model is employed to efficiently annotate maize plant instances, thereby constructing a dataset for maize seedling instance segmentation. The study evaluates the experimental accuracy of six instance segmentation algorithms: Mask R-CNN, Cascade Mask R-CNN, PointRend, YOLOv5, Mask Scoring R-CNN, and YOLOv8, employing various combinations of multispectral bands for a comparative analysis. The experimental findings indicate that the YOLOv8 model exhibits exceptional segmentation accuracy, notably in the NRG band, with bbox_mAP50 and segm_mAP50 accuracies reaching 95.2% and 94%, respectively, surpassing other models. Furthermore, YOLOv8 demonstrates robust performance in generalization experiments, indicating its adaptability across diverse environments and conditions. Additionally, this study simulates and analyzes the impact of different resolutions on the model’s segmentation accuracy. The findings reveal that the YOLOv8 model sustains high segmentation accuracy even at reduced resolutions (1.333 cm/px), meeting the phenotypic analysis and field management criteria.
Research on Mobile Robot Navigation Method Based on Semantic Information
Authors: Sun Ruo-Huai , Zhao Xue , Wu Cheng-Dong , Zhang Lei , Zhao Bin
Published: July 2024

This paper proposes a solution to the problem of mobile robot navigation and trajectory interpolation in dynamic environments with large scenes. The solution combines a semantic laser SLAM system that utilizes deep learning and a trajectory interpolation algorithm. The paper first introduces some open-source laser SLAM algorithms and then elaborates in detail on the general framework of the SLAM system used in this paper. Second, the concept of voxels is introduced into the occupation probability map to enhance the ability of local voxel maps to represent dynamic objects. Then, in this paper, we propose a PointNet++ point cloud semantic segmentation network combined with deep learning algorithms to extract deep features of dynamic point clouds in large scenes and output semantic information of points on static objects. A descriptor of the global environment is generated based on its semantic information. Closed-loop completion of global map optimization is performed to reduce cumulative error. Finally, T-trajectory interpolation is utilized to ensure the motion performance of the robot and improve the smooth stability of the robot trajectory. The experimental results indicate that the combination of the semantic laser SLAM system with deep learning and the trajectory interpolation algorithm proposed in this paper yields better graph-building and loop-closure effects in large scenes at SIASUN large scene campus. The use of T-trajectory interpolation ensures vibration-free and stable transitions between target points.
A Multi-Scale-Enhanced YOLO-V5 Model for Detecting Small Objects in Remote Sensing Image Information
Authors: Li Jing , Sun Haochen , Zhang Zhiyong
Published: July 2024

As a typical component of remote sensing signals, remote sensing image (RSI) information plays a strong role in showing macro, dynamic and accurate information on the earth’s surface and environment, which is critical to many application fields. One of the core technologies is the object detection (OD) of RSI signals (RSISs). The majority of existing OD algorithms only consider medium and large objects, regardless of small-object detection, resulting in an unsatisfactory performance in detection precision and the miss rate of small objects. To boost the overall OD performance of RSISs, an improved detection framework, I-YOLO-V5, was proposed for OD in high-altitude RSISs. Firstly, the idea of a residual network is employed to construct a new residual unit to achieve the purpose of improving the network feature extraction. Then, to avoid the gradient fading of the network, densely connected networks are integrated into the structure of the algorithm. Meanwhile, a fourth detection layer is employed in the algorithm structure in order to reduce the deficiency of small-object detection in RSISs in complex environments, and its effectiveness is verified. The experimental results confirm that, compared with existing advanced OD algorithms, the average accuracy of the proposed I-YOLO-V5 is improved by 15.4%, and the miss rate is reduced by 46.8% on the RSOD dataset.
ANALYSIS OF KEY ASPECTS OF SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING
Authors: Aenih Alham Nur , Purwani Avik Putri , Aisya Naflah Rihhadatul , Satria Noval
Published: July 2024

This research examines the strategies, tactics, and insights that contribute to the success of social media campaigns, with the objective of finding the transformative potential of social media as a driving force behind entrepreneurial success within the retail sector. Qualitative research methodology is used in this research, consisting of qualitative sampling, data collection, and data analysis. Several key findings regarding their social media marketing practices were yielded by the thematic analysis of the semi-structured interviews with 15 retail entrepreneurs. They are: diverse marketing strategies, importance of authenticity and storytelling. challenges and obstacles, and metrics and measurement. The results of this research amplified the dynamic and multifaceted nature of social media marketing in the retail sector. Retail entrepreneurs face a complex challenge that leads them to use several strategies to promote their brands and engage with consumers, i.e., strategic adaptation, authenticity and engagement, resource allocation, and measurement and optimization
THE INFLUENCE OF SERVICE QUALITY ON THE IMAGE OF THE DESTINATION OF GARUT STATION
Authors: Adiatma Dani , Rukma Deden Firman Syuyaman
Published: July 2024

This study aims to investigate the impact of service quality on destination image at Garut Station. Employing a descriptive and verification method with a quantitative approach, research utilized observational techniques and distributed questionnaires to 100 tourists at Garut Station, selected through accidental sampling. Collected data underwent analysis using Structural Equation Modeling-Partial Least Square (PLS-SEM) to assess the extent of service quality's influence on Garut Station's destination image. Findings reveal that service quality significantly contributes to enhancing Garut Station's destination image. These results have implications for informing strategic formulations by Garut Regency Government, Garut Cultural Tourism Office, and Garut Station management. Specifically, they underscore the importance of prioritizing excellent service quality to bolster and shape the station's destination image.
BUSINESS PERFORMANCE MODEL BASED ON PRODUCT DIFFERENCE AND MANAGERIAL ABILITIES IN COFFEE SHOP BUSINESSES
Authors: Riyanto Agus , Hutajulu Fajar Simon Prederick , Syafei M. Yani , Sianturi Gabriel , Fadhilla Muhammad Azka
Published: July 2024

This research aims to determine a business performance model that is influenced by product differentiation and managerial capabilities. The research method used was a quantitative approach, from 44 respondents using correlation analysis and coefficient of determination. The results of this research show that the business performance model is strongly influenced by product differentiation and managerial ability.
Globalization & Development of Sharia Financial Technology in Indonesia
Authors: Syahputra* Angga , Kaswinata Kaswinata , Tanjung Hendri , Rahmani Nur Ahmadi Bi , Dzuljastri Dzuljastri
Published: July 2024

This research explores the impact of globalization on the development of Sharia Financial Technology (FinTech) in Indonesia. The phenomenon of globalization has spurred the growth of FinTech, including Sharia FinTech, which combines sharia principles with digital technology. This study identifies the factors influencing the growth of Sharia FinTech globally, analyzes its impact on the Muslim community in Indonesia, and explores the challenges and opportunities faced by the industry and financial regulators. This study utilizes descriptive qualitative research method with secondary data sources. The results show that Sharia FinTech has increased the accessibility of financial services in Indonesia, especially for those who were previously unreachable. Innovations in Sharia FinTech products and services create broader financial inclusion and support the growth of the Islamic economy. However, unaligned regulations and licensing complexity are the main challenges. Nonetheless, regulatory harmonization and cooperation between the government, regulators and industry are key steps in optimizing the potential of Islamic FinTech. This research provides insights for policymakers, regulators, and financial industry players to effectively and sustainably manage the development of Islamic FinTech amidst the dynamics of globalization.