bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Shunt Active Power Filters in Three-Phase, Three-Wire Systems: A Topical Review
Authors: Popescu Mihaela , Bitoleanu Alexandru , Suru Constantin Vlad , Linca Mihaita , Alboteanu Laurentiu
Published: June 2024

The increasingly extensive use of non-linear loads, mostly including static power converters, in large industry, commercial, and domestic applications, as well as the spread of renewable energy sources in distribution-generated units, make the use of the most efficient power quality improvement systems a current concern. The use of active power filters proved to be the most advanced solution with the best compensation performance for harmonics, reactive power, and load unbalance. Thus, issues related to improving the power quality through active power filters are very topical and addressed by many researchers. This paper presents a topical review on the shunt active power filters in three-phase, three-wire systems. The power circuit and configurations of shunt active filtering systems are considered, including the multilevel topologies and use of advanced power semiconductor devices with lower switching losses and higher switching frequencies. Several compensation strategies, reference current generation methods, current control techniques, and DC-voltage control are pointed out and discussed. The direct power control method is also discussed. New advanced control methods that have better performance than conventional ones and gained attention in the recent literature are highlighted. The current state of renewable energy sources integration with shunt active power filters is analyzed. Concerns regarding the optimum placement and sizing of the active power filters in a given power network to reduce the investment costs are also presented. Trends and future developments are discussed at the end of this paper. For a rigorous substantiation, more than 250 publications on this topic, most of them very recent, constitute the basis of bibliographic references and can assist readers who are interested to explore the subject in greater detail.
Analytical Solution for Transient Electroosmotic and Pressure-Driven Flows in Microtubes
Authors: Feng Yu , Yi Hang , Liu Ruguan
Published: June 2024

This study focuses on deriving and presenting an infinite series as the analytical solution for transient electroosmotic and pressure-driven flows in microtubes. Such a mathematical presentation of fluid dynamics under simultaneous electric field and pressure gradients leverages governing equations derived from the generalized continuity and momentum equations simplified for laminar and axisymmetric flow. Velocity profile developments, apparent slip-induced flow rates, and shear stress distributions were analyzed by varying values of the ratio of microtube radius to Debye length and the electroosmotic slip velocity. Additionally, the “retarded time” in terms of hydraulic diameter, kinematic viscosity, and slip-induced flow rate was derived. A simpler polynomial series approximation for steady electroosmotic flow is also proposed for engineering convenience. The analytical solutions obtained in this study not only enhance the fundamental understanding of the electroosmotic flow characteristics within microtubes, emphasizing the interplay between electroosmotic and pressure-driven mechanisms, but also serve as a benchmark for validating computational fluid dynamics models for electroosmotic flow simulations in more complex flow domains. Moreover, the analytical approach aids in the parametric analysis, providing deeper insights into the impact of physical parameters on electroosmotic and pressure-driven flow behavior, which is critical for optimizing device performance in practical applications. These findings also offer insightful implications for diagnostic and therapeutic strategies in healthcare, particularly enhancing the capabilities of lab-on-a-chip technologies and paving the way for future research in the development and optimization of microfluidic systems.
Using Cooking Schools to Improve the Pleasure of Food and Cooking in Patients Experiencing Smell Loss
Authors: Fjaeldstad Alexander Wieck
Published: June 2024

Smell loss affects around 15–20% of the population, with a major effect on the quality of life. The most common complaint is the impairment of the eating experience, with around 90% of patients reporting this issue. A study conducted at a specialised Taste and Smell Clinic investigated if food and cooking can positively affect the enjoyment of food, subjective cooking skills, and quality of life in patients with smell loss. The 49 participants in the study received a 5-week cooking school course that focused on emphasizing the other senses to regain the enjoyment of food. Participants gained more confidence in cooking, and their quality of life improved significantly. Positively evaluated recipes were adjusted based on feedback and published as free e-books in Danish, German, and English. Eating and cooking are multisensory experiences, and the perception of food depends on the complex interaction of senses and surroundings. If the olfactory input is reduced or absent, both the enjoyment and cooking experience can be negatively affected. Therefore, focusing on food and cooking can have a positive impact on patients with smell loss.
Influence of Boiling Time on Chemical Composition and Properties of Tender and Mature Moringa Pods
Authors: Castelló María Luisa , Sesé Tomás , García-Mares Francisco José , Juan-Borrás María del Sol , Ortolá María Dolores
Published: June 2024

Moringa oleifera is a plant native to India that is well adapted to warm climates with a high yield and low agronomic requirements. Pods are one of the edible parts of this plant and are commonly consumed in some places, (India, Morocco, etc.) when in an early vegetative state. However, both production and consumption of this plant are scarce and seasonal in Europe and treatments to extend its shelf life are required. Therefore, the aim of this study has been to evaluate the variation in the physicochemical properties of Moringa oleifera pods at two stages of maturity, tender and mature, in terms of mass variation, optical and mechanical properties, protein content, total antioxidant capacity and phenolic profile, after boiling them in tap water at 100 °C for different lengths of time (0, 2, 5, 8, 12, 16, and 20 min). The mass of the tender pods increased by 15% during cooking, while the mature pods gradually lost weight. The protein content was approximately 4% with no significant change brought about by cooking. Ferulic, trans-cinnamic, p-coumaric, and ellagic acids were found in the fresh pods. During cooking, these phenols disappeared, and others appeared, including epicatechin and quercetin 3-glucoside, especially in the tender pods. In conclusion, boiling could contribute to an improvement in the organoleptic properties of moringa pods and to an extension of their storage and to wider availability on the market.
Lactic Acid Fermentation Ameliorates Intrinsic Toxicants in Brassica campestris L. Leaves Harvested at Different Growth Stages
Authors: Younis Muhammad , Akhtar Saeed , Ismail Tariq , Qamar Muhammad , Sattar Dur-e-shahwar , Saeed Wisha , Mubarak Mohammad S. , Bartkiene Elena , Rocha João Miguel
Published: June 2024

Brassica campestris (syn. Brassica rapa) is often known as mustard and is grown worldwide owing to its health-promoting characteristics associated with the presence of nutrients and phytochemicals. Along with the nutritional components, B. campestris also contains anti-nutrients (phytates, oxalates, tannins, alkaloids, saponins) that can cause adverse severe health effects to consumers, including rashes, nausea, headaches, bloating and nutritional deficiencies. In the present study, heating (blanching) and fermentation (Lactiplantibacillus plantarum) treatments were applied to reduce the load of the anti-nutrients of B. campestris leaves harvested at three different growth stages: the first stage (fourth week), the second stage (sixth week) and the third stage (eighth week). Results revealed that fermentation treatment using Lp. plantarum increases the ash (5.4 to 6%), protein (9 to 10.4%) and fiber (9.6 to 10.7%) contents, whereas moisture (0.91 to 0.82%), fat (9.9 to 9.1%) and carbohydrate (64.5 to 64.2%) contents decreased among B. campestris samples, and the trend was similar for all three stages. Blanching and fermentation lead to the reduction in phytates (46, 42%), saponins (34, 49%), tannins (1, 10%), oxalates (15, 7%) and alkaloids (10, 6%), separately as compared to raw samples of B. campestris leaves. In contrast, fermentation had no considerable effect on phytochemical contents (total phenolic and total flavonoids) and antioxidant potential (DPPH and FRAP). The action of blanching followed by fermentation caused more decline in the aforementioned toxicants load as compared to blanching or fermentation alone. Structural modifications in blanching and the biochemical conversions in fermentation lead to enhanced stability of nutrients and antioxidant potential. Taken together, these findings suggest blanching followed by fermentation treatments as a reliable, cost-effective and safer approach to curtail the anti-nutrient load without affecting the proximate composition, phytochemical attributes and antioxidant activity.
Chicken Egg White Gels: Fabrication, Modification, and Applications in Foods and Oral Nutraceutical Delivery
Authors: Li Junhua , Wang Xuechun , Chang Cuihua , Gu Luping , Su Yujie , Yang Yanjun , Agyei Dominic , Han Qi
Published: June 2024

Chicken egg white (EW) proteins possess various useful techno-functionalities, including foaming, gelling or coagulating, and emulsifying. The gelling property is one of the most important functionalities of EW proteins, affecting their versatile applications in the food and pharmaceutical industries. However, it is challenging to develop high-quality gelled foods and innovative nutraceutical supplements using native EW and its proteins. This review describes the gelling properties of EW proteins. It discusses the development and action mechanism of the physical, chemical, and biological methods and exogenous substances used in the modification of EW gels. Two main applications of EW gels, i.e., gelling agents in foods and gel-type carriers for nutraceutical delivery, are systematically summarized and discussed. In addition, the research and technological gaps between modified EW gels and their applications are highlighted. By reviewing the new modification strategies and application trends of EW gels, this paper provides insights into the development of EW gel-derived products with new and functional features.
Factors That Contribute to the Mental Health of Black Youth during COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Salami Bukola , Maduforo Aloysius Nwabugo , Aiello Olivia , Osman Samah , Omobhude Oserekpamen Favour , Price Kimberly , Henderson Jo , Hamilton Hayley A. , Kemei Janet , Mullings Delores V.
Published: June 2024

Background: The mental health of Black youth during the COVID-19 pandemic is potentially influenced by various systemic factors, including racism, socioeconomic disparities, and access to culturally sensitive mental health support. Understanding these influences is essential for developing effective interventions to mitigate mental health disparities. Methods: Our project used a community-based participatory (CBP) research design with an intersectional theoretical perspective. An advisory committee consisting of fourteen Black youth supported all aspects of our project. The research team consisted of experienced Black researchers who also trained six Black youths as research assistants and co-researchers. The co-researchers conducted individual interviews, contributed to data analysis, and mobilized knowledge. Participants were recruited through the advisory committee members and networks of Black youth co-researchers and sent an email invitation to Black community organizations. Forty-eight Black identified were interviewed between the ages of 16 and 30 in Canada. The data was analyzed thematically. We kept a reflexive note throughout all aspects of the project. Results: Participants reported significant challenges with online schooling, including a lack of support and access to resources. Lockdowns exacerbated stress, particularly for those living in toxic living/home environments. Financial burdens, such as food insecurity and precarious employment, were prevalent and exacerbated mental health challenges. Additionally, experiences of anti-Black racism and police brutality during the pandemic heightened stress and anxiety among participants. Conclusions: The findings underscore the complex interplay of systemic factors in shaping the mental health of Black youth during the COVID-19 pandemic. Addressing these disparities requires targeted interventions that address structural inequities and provide culturally competent support to mitigate the impact on mental well-being.
Correction: Keen et al. Establishing Innovative Complex Services: Learning from the Active Together Cancer Prehabilitation and Rehabilitation Service. Healthcare 2023, 11, 3007
Authors: Keen Carol , Phillips Gail , Thelwell Michael , Humphreys Liam , Evans Laura , Myers Anna , Frith Gabriella , Copeland Robert
Published: June 2024

Anna Myers and Gabriella Frith were not included as authors in the original publication [...]
Effectiveness of Physical Activity Programs for Older Adults during COVID-19 across Districts with Different Healthcare Resource: A Case Study of Keelung City in Taiwan
Authors: Lin Lain-Li
Published: June 2024

While past research has largely supported the importance of physical activity for the health of older adults, during the COVID-19 pandemic, older individuals may have reduced their opportunities and levels of physical activity to lower the risk of infection by minimizing outings or interactions with others. Additionally, the adequacy of medical resources in a region is often closely related to factors such as infrastructure and economic resources. Therefore, it is important to consider whether there are differences in health promotion among older adults living in areas with varying levels of medical resources. This study aimed to implement a physical activity program for older adults, selecting Keelung City, Taiwan, as the implementation area, and comparing the differences in implementation effectiveness among administrative districts with different levels of medical resources in the city. The study employed a two-way analysis of variance to examine the differences in the effectiveness of the physical activity program among administrative districts, where the average service population in medical institutions was higher or lower than the city average. The results revealed significant improvements in participants’ right-hand grip strength and the number of sit-to-stand repetitions in the overall sample after the program intervention. Moreover, in administrative districts where the average service population in medical institutions was higher than the city average, participants showed greater improvement in grip strength, while in districts where it was lower than the city average, participants demonstrated greater improvement in sit-to-stand repetitions. Future research could draw upon these findings to design physical activity programs tailored to different regions with distinct allocations of medical resources. Tailored program designs considering local medical resources are necessary to optimize effectiveness. Governments and organizations should focus on elderly health, especially in resource-scarce areas, by increasing investment and support for these programs to promote well-being and bridge disparities.
Structural Analysis of the Sympathetic Restoration and Conservation of the Gopinath Temple, Kathmandu, Nepal
Authors: Arce Andrés , Jiménez Rios Alejandro , Tomic Igor , Biggs David
Published: June 2024

The sympathetic restoration and conservation of built cultural heritage play a significant role in the management and preparedness for future climate scenarios by facilitating adaptive reuse, enhancing cultural resilience, preserving traditional knowledge, and boosting tourism. The importance of restoring damaged heritage sites after an earthquake drew international attention to Nepal after the 2015 Gorka Earthquake. UNESCO established an office in Kathmandu to promote the restoration of tangible and intangible heritage in the area. This included developing structural analyses of buildings with historical and cultural value that, due to their nature, cannot be intervened with the same methodology as modern buildings. In this paper, the case study of the earthquake-damaged Gopinath temple is discussed. First, an initial visual inspection phase and the following diagnosis of the structure are discussed. Then, the results from a series of static and dynamic structural analyses performed to determine the safety level of the structure, together with a sensitivity analysis, are presented. A sympathetic intervention proposal capable of increasing the temple’s safety level, and based on the addition of timber plates, has resulted in substantial improvements in the lateral behavior of the structure. The proposed intervention is deemed sustainable and able to increase the resilience of the temple in the face of future hazards.
Targeting Protein Kinases to Protect Beta-Cell Function and Survival in Diabetes
Authors: Dalle Stéphane
Published: June 2024

The prevalence of diabetes is increasing worldwide. Massive death of pancreatic beta-cells causes type 1 diabetes. Progressive loss of beta-cell function and mass characterizes type 2 diabetes. To date, none of the available antidiabetic drugs promotes the maintenance of a functional mass of endogenous beta-cells, revealing an unmet medical need. Dysfunction and apoptotic death of beta-cells occur, in particular, through the activation of intracellular protein kinases. In recent years, protein kinases have become highly studied targets of the pharmaceutical industry for drug development. A number of drugs that inhibit protein kinases have been approved for the treatment of cancers. The question of whether safe drugs that inhibit protein kinase activity can be developed and used to protect the function and survival of beta-cells in diabetes is still unresolved. This review presents arguments suggesting that several protein kinases in beta-cells may represent targets of interest for the development of drugs to treat diabetes.
Knowledge-Driven and Diffusion Model-Based Methods for Generating Historical Building Facades: A Case Study of Traditional Minnan Residences in China
Authors: Xu Sirui , Zhang Jiaxin , Li Yunqin
Published: June 2024

The preservation of historical traditional architectural ensembles faces multifaceted challenges, and the need for facade renovation and updates has become increasingly prominent. In conventional architectural updating and renovation processes, assessing design schemes and the redesigning component are often time-consuming and labor-intensive. The knowledge-driven method utilizes a wide range of knowledge resources, such as historical documents, architectural drawings, and photographs, commonly used to guide and optimize the conservation, restoration, and management of architectural heritage. Recently, the emergence of artificial intelligence-generated content (AIGC) technologies has provided new solutions for creating architectural facades, introducing a new research paradigm to the renovation plans for historic districts with their variety of options and high efficiency. In this study, we propose a workflow combining Grasshopper with Stable Diffusion: starting with Grasshopper to generate concise line drawings, then using the ControlNet and low-rank adaptation (LoRA) models to produce images of traditional Minnan architectural facades, allowing designers to quickly preview and modify the facade designs during the renovation of traditional architectural clusters. Our research results demonstrate Stable Diffusion’s precise understanding and execution ability concerning architectural facade elements, capable of generating regional traditional architectural facades that meet architects’ requirements for style, size, and form based on existing images and prompt descriptions, revealing the immense potential for application in the renovation of traditional architectural groups and historic districts. It should be noted that the correlation between specific architectural images and proprietary term prompts still requires further addition due to the limitations of the database. Although the model generally performs well when trained on traditional Chinese ancient buildings, the accuracy and clarity of more complex decorative parts still need enhancement, necessitating further exploration of solutions for handling facade details in the future.
Lethal, Sublethal, and Offspring Effects of Fluralaner and Dinotefuran on Three Species of Bactrocera Fruit Flies
Authors: Li Doudou , Cai Xinyan , Qi Yixiang , Lu Yongyue , Li Xinlian
Published: June 2024

Fruit flies cause substantial economic damage, and their management relies primarily on chemical insecticides. However, pesticide resistance has been reported in several fruit fly species, the mitigation of which is crucial to enhancing fruit fly control. Here, we assess the toxicity of a novel insecticide (fluralaner) and a common insecticide (dinotefuran) against three fruit fly species, Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel), Bactrocera cucurbitae (Coquillett), and Bactrocera tau (Walker). Both pesticides exhibit robust lethal and sublethal effects against all three fruit fly species, with fluralaner being more potent. Fluralaner and dinotefuran suppress the reproductive capacities and survival rates of fruit flies. However, at the 50% lethal concentration, fluralaner stimulates the reproductive capacity of B. dorsalis and the survival rate of B. tau. Fluralaner also causes significant transgenerational effects, impacting the offspring hatching rate of B. cucurbitae and B. tau and reducing the proportion of female offspring. Thus, both pesticides exhibit high potential for controlling fruit flies. However, their application should be tailored according to species variations and the diverse effects they may induce. Collectively, the findings of this study outline the sublethal effects of two insecticides against fruit flies, helping to optimize their application to ensure the effective management of insecticide resistance.
New Genera and Species of Trigonidiidae (Orthoptera: Grylloidea) from the Mid-Cretaceous of Myanmar with a Redescription of Birmaninemobius hirsutus
Authors: Gu Jun-Jie , Zhou Yi , Yuan Wei
Published: June 2024

The abundance of insects in Burmese amber illustrates a highly diverse insect community from the mid-Cretaceous period; yet, records of crickets (Grylloidea) are notably scarce. In this study, we describe two new genera with three new species, Palaeotrigonidium concavoculus gen. et sp. nov., Palaeotrigonidium defectivus sp. nov., and Tricalcaratus longilineus gen. et sp. nov., based on three specimens collected in north Myanmar. These new species can be placed within the Trigonidiidae (Orthoptera: Grylloidea) by their triangular head, compound eyes that protrude in dorsal view, and a body entirely covered with robust setae, particularly noticeable in the head and pronotum; however, subfamily assignments are not possible. Another known species, Birmaninemobius hirsutus, Xu et al., 2020, from Myanmar amber is redescribed based on a new specimen and a recheck of the holotype.
Population Density-Dependent Developmental Regulation in Migratory Locust
Authors: Shen Sifan , Zhang Long , Zhang Liwei
Published: June 2024

Insect development is intricately governed by hormonal signaling pathways, yet the pivotal upstream regulator that potentiates hormone activation remains largely elusive. The migratory locust, Locusta migratoria, exhibits population density-dependent phenotypic plasticity, encompassing traits such as flight capability, body coloration, and behavior. In this study, we elucidated a negative correlation between population density and ontogenetic development during the nymphal stage of locusts. We found that the level of density influences the developmental trajectory by modulating transcript abundance within the ecdysone signaling pathway, with knockdown of the prothoracicotropic hormone (PTTH) resulting in developmental delay. Transcriptomic analysis of locust brains across solitary and gregarious phases revealed significant differential expression of genes involved in various pathways, including protein synthesis, energy metabolism, hormonal regulation, and immunity. Notably, knockdown experiments targeting two energy regulators, adipokinetic hormone (AKH) and insulin-like polypeptide 1 (ilp1), failed to elicit changes in the developmental process in solitary locusts. However, knockdown of immunoglobulin (IG) significantly shortened the developmental time in higher-density populations. Collectively, our findings underscore the regulatory role of population density in determining developmental duration and suggest that an immune-related gene contributes to the observed differences in developmental patterns.
No Evidence of Chronic Infection in a Metagenomic Sequencing Study of the Keratoconus Corneal Epithelium
Authors: Kaur Pritpal , Moon Loren , Srikumaran Divya , Salzberg Steven L. , Lu Jennifer , Simner Patricia J. , Soiberman Uri S.
Published: June 2024

Objectives: This study aims to assess the presence of pathogenic microorganisms in the corneal epithelial layer of keratoconus patients. Methods: DNA was extracted from corneal epithelial samples procured from ten individual keratoconus eyes and three healthy controls. Metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) was performed to detect ocular microbiota using an agnostic approach. Results: Metagenomic sequencing revealed a low microbial read count in corneal epithelial samples derived from both keratoconus eyes (average: 530) and controls (average: 622) without a statistically significant difference (p = 0.29). Proteobacteria were the predominant phylum in both keratoconus and control samples (relative abundance: 72% versus 79%, respectively). Conclusions: The overall low microbial read count and the lack of difference in the relative abundance of different microbial species between keratoconus and control samples do not support the hypothesis that a chronic corneal infection is implicated in the pathogenesis of keratoconus. These findings do not rule out the possibility that an acute infection may be involved in the disease process as an initiating event.
The Critical Shoulder Angle: A Significant Radiological Measure in Rotator Cuff vs. Glenohumeral Osteoarthritis in Chilean Patients—A Descriptive Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Rojas Walter , Vargas Pablo , Droppelmann Guillermo , Jorquera Carlos , Stöwhas Katherine , Godoy Alejandro , García Nicolás
Published: June 2024

Background: Shoulder pain is one of the most important musculoskeletal conditions affecting the upper extremities. Glenohumeral osteoarthritis (GHOA) and rotator cuff injuries (RCIs) are notable for their high prevalence. The critical shoulder angle (CSA) is a significant radiological measure for determining the diagnosis and progression of patients with these conditions. Although there are reports in the international literature about this measure, in our country, guideline values considering these two pathologies are unknown. Objective: Our objective was to assess patients diagnosed with GHOA and RCI using an AP X-ray view and the CSA. Methods: To conduct this, we identified differences between sexes and age categories. Fifty-nine adult patients with GHOA and RCI were included. CSA grades varied depending on the age category and type of injury evaluated. Results: Significant differences between the age ranges of 40 and 54 (p = 0.05), 55–69 (p = 0.001), and 70–84 (p = 0.017) were observed. Conclusions: Patients with RCI tended to be younger and have a higher CSA compared to those with GHOA. It is important to have more normative values and to continue monitoring the critical shoulder angle in these patients.
Patients’ Perceptions of Nusinersen Effects According to Their Responder Status
Authors: Lilien Charlotte , Vrscaj Eva , Thapaliya Gita , Deconinck Nicolas , De Waele Liesbeth , Duong Tina , Haberlová Jana , Kumhera Markéta , Peirens Geertrui , Szabo Lena , Tahon Valentine , Tang Whitney J. , Benmhammed Noor , Médard Laurie , Servais Laurent
Published: June 2024

Background and Objective: Patients with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) treated with a disease-modifying therapy (DMT) are often classified as responders or non-responders based on the attainment of a specific improvement threshold on validated functional scales. This categorization may significantly impact treatment reimbursement in some countries. The aim of this research is to evaluate the perception of treatments and their benefit by patients considered as responders or non-responders. Methods: In this non-commercial multicenter study, 99 post-symptomatically treated SMA type I–III patients with a median age of 11.2 (0.39–57.4) years at treatment initiation were stratified into three groups based on their treatment outcomes, i.e., those exhibiting clinically significant improvement (N = 41), those with non-clinically significant improvement (N = 18), or those showing no improvement (N = 40). Fifteen months after treatment, the initiation patients or patients’ caregivers were assessed using a patient-rated scoring system based on the Patient Global Impression of Change (PGIC) scale, comprising 22 questions targeting important aspects and tasks in the daily life of patients with SMA. Results: We found no statistical difference in the patient perception of treatment benefits in 17 out of 22 domains across patient groups. Conclusions: Our results suggest that functional motor scales do not recapitulate patients’ and patients’ caregivers’ experience of the effect of nusinersen treatment in SMA.
Pilot Study on Next-Generation Sequencing Analysis of Vaginal Microbiota in Clinically Infertile Patients Treated with Probiotics
Authors: Lin Li-Te , Li Chia-Jung , Wu Chia-Chun , Pan Li-Fei , Tsui Kuan-Hao
Published: June 2024

Background: In this investigation, we aimed to understand the influence of oral probiotic supplementation on the vaginal microbiota of women preparing for assisted reproductive technology (ART) procedures. Given the importance of a healthy microbiome for reproductive success, this study sought to explore how probiotics might alter the bacterial composition in the vaginal environment. Methods: We recruited a cohort of 30 women, averaging 37 years of age (ranging from 31 to 43 years), who were scheduled to undergo ART. Using 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) sequencing, we meticulously analyzed the vaginal microbiota composition before and after the administration of oral probiotic supplements. Results: Our analysis identified 17 distinct microorganisms, including 8 species of Lactobacillus. Following probiotic supplementation, we observed subtle yet notable changes in the vaginal microbiota of some participants. Specifically, there was a decrease in Gardnerella abundance by approximately 20%, and increases in Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium by 10% and 15%, respectively. Additionally, we noted a significant reduction in the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes (F/B) ratio in the probiotic group, indicating potential shifts in the overall bacterial composition. Conclusions: These preliminary findings suggest that oral probiotic supplementation can induce significant changes in the vaginal microbiota of middle-aged women undergoing ART, potentially improving their overall bacterial profile. Future studies should consider a larger sample size and a narrower age range to validate these results. Investigating factors related to female hormone production could also provide deeper insights. Understanding the effects of probiotics on the vaginal microbiota in patients with ovarian aging may lead to personalized interventions and better reproductive outcomes.
Maintaining the Physiological Lateral Flexion Gap in the Kinematically Aligned TKA Does Not Compromise Clinical Outcomes at One-Year Follow-Up
Authors: Jimenez-Soto Cristina , Moya-Angeler Joaquín , León-Muñoz Vicente J. , Theus-Steinmann Carlo , Christen Bernhardt , Calliess Tilman
Published: June 2024

Background: Instability is a common cause of (total knee arthroplasty) TKA failure, which can be prevented by achieving proper gap balance during surgery. There is no consensus on the ideal gap balance in TKA, and different alignment philosophies result in varying soft-tissue tightness. Traditional TKA aims for symmetric compartment balance, while kinematic alignment (KA) restores anatomy and accepts asymmetric flexion gaps. This study evaluated the impact of these philosophies on the flexion gap balance and clinical outcomes. Methods: A retrospective review of 167 patients who received true or restricted KA robotic-assisted TKA with at least one year of follow-up was conducted. The groups were based on intraoperative flexion gap differences: symmetric (0–1 mm) (n = 94) and asymmetric (2–5 mm) (n = 73). Results: Preoperative demographics and postoperative clinical and functional scores were compared. Both groups were similar in demographics and preoperative scores. True KA alignment was more likely to result in an asymmetric flexion gap, while restricted KA produced symmetric gaps. Conclusions: The study found no adverse effects from the physiological asymmetric flexion gap, with clinical and functional outcomes comparable to symmetric gaps. A 5 mm difference between the medial and lateral gap width did not negatively impact the outcomes. True KA more frequently results in a physiological asymmetric flexion gap.
Changes in Maxillary Sinus Volume and Mucosal Thickness Post Bimaxillary Advancement Procedures: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Grab Paweł Piotr , Szałwiński Michał , Rot Piotr , Chloupek Aldona , Sobol Maria , Jurkiewicz Dariusz
Published: June 2024

Background: Bimaxillary surgery is an elemental procedure in the field of cranio-maxillofacial surgery. It allows for the correction of even the most challenging cases of maxillomandibular disorders, malocclusion, facial asymmetry, and disproportion. The osteotomies and maneuvers carried out during the procedure result in changes to the surrounding tissues, including the maxillary sinuses (MS). The aim of this study was to assess the change in the maxillary sinus volume and the thickness of the mucosa after maxillomandibular advancement (MMA) surgeries. Methods: A group of 25 patients who underwent MMA surgery were included in the study. Computed tomography (CT) of the head and neck region was performed 2 weeks preoperatively and 6 months postoperatively. Acquired Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) files were analyzed using different software programs to calculate the medium MS mucosa thickness and MS volume. Results: A statistically significant reduction in MS volume was observed (p = 0.015). The change in the median thickness of the MS mucosa was not statistically significant. The median sella-nasion-A point angle (SNA angle) value of the group increased from 80.2 to 83.4 degrees. A weak negative correlation between the SNA delta and the MS volume delta was observed. Spearman’s rank coefficient: (ρ s = −0.381, p = 0.060). Conclusions: The MMA surgery results in a reduction in the MS volume. The amount of forward movement of the maxilla may be correlated with the extent of the MS volume reduction.
A Novel Approach to Measuring an Old Construct: Aligning the Conceptualisation and Operationalisation of Cognitive Flexibility
Authors: Beckmann Jens F. , Birney Damian P. , Sternberg Robert J.
Published: June 2024

A successful adjustment to dynamic changes in one’s environment requires contingent adaptive behaviour. Such behaviour is underpinned by cognitive flexibility, which conceptually is part of fluid intelligence. We argue, however, that conventional approaches to measuring fluid intelligence are insufficient in capturing cognitive flexibility. We address the discrepancy between conceptualisation and operationalisation by introducing two newly developed tasks that aim at capturing within-person processes of dealing with novelty. In an exploratory proof-of-concept study, the two flexibility tasks were administered to 307 university students, together with a battery of conventional measures of fluid intelligence. Participants also provided information about their Grade Point Averages obtained in high school and in their first year at university. We tested (1) whether an experimental manipulation of a requirement for cognitive inhibition resulted in systematic differences in difficulty, (2) whether these complexity differences reflect psychometrically differentiable effects, and (3) whether these newly developed flexibility tasks show incremental value in predicting success in the transition from high school to university over conventional operationalisations of fluid intelligence. Our findings support the notion that cognitive flexibility, when conceptualised and operationalised as individual differences in within-person processes of dealing with novelty, more appropriately reflects the dynamics of individuals’ behaviour when attempting to cope with changing demands.
Perivascular Adipose Tissue Density and Stenosis Plaque Degree in Lower Limb Peripheral Arteries in CT
Authors: Fortunati Alice , Perazzo Chiara , Basile Maria chiara , Ce’ Maurizio , Malavazos Alexis Elias , Papa Sergio , Fazzini Deborah , Secchi Francesco , Alì Marco
Published: June 2024

Background: Perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT) attenuation has emerged as a novel biomarker for identifying high-risk arterial plaques due to its association with inflammation. Recognizing the systemic nature of atherosclerosis and its link with major cardiovascular events in coronary disease, this study evaluated PVAT attenuation in the peripheral arteries using CT imaging to expand the understanding of its diagnostic and prognostic potential. Methods: a retrospective analysis of 53 consecutive patients who underwent CT angiography, examining PVAT density across five primary peripheral arterial segments. A 5 mm region of interest adjacent to the vascular wall was analyzed by two blinded readers, with reproducibility coefficients calculated to determine the reliability of the measurements. For the statistical analyses, mean values were derived from these measurements. The patients were stratified into four groups based on the degree of arterial stenosis: <25%, 25–50%, 50–70%, and >70%. PVAT density comparisons between these groups were performed using the Kruskal–Wallis test and the pairwise Mann–Whitney U test with Holm–Bonferroni correction for multiple comparisons. Results: the Kruskal–Wallis test revealed statistically significant disparities in PVAT density across the categorically differentiated stenosis groups (p < 0.001), indicating an association between PVAT density and arterial stenosis severity. This association was especially pronounced in the external iliac, common femoral, superficial femoral, and popliteal arteries, where the p-values were consistently below 0.05. Subsequent pairwise analyses utilizing the Mann–Whitney U test with Holm–Bonferroni correction affirmed these findings, in particular for the external iliac, common femoral, superficial femoral and popliteal arteries (p < 0.05). Conclusions: our findings reinforce the correlation between increased PVAT density and the degree of arterial stenosis, supporting the clinical value of PVAT as a non-invasive biomarker for cardiovascular risk stratification and potentially guiding therapeutic interventions.
Investigation on the Torsional–Flexural Instability Phenomena during the Bending Process of Hairpin Windings: Experimental Tests and FE Model Validation
Authors: Mangeruga Valerio , Barbieri Saverio Giulio , Giacopini Matteo , Giuradei Fabrizio , Vai Piermaria , Gerada Chris
Published: June 2024

Modern electric motors developed for the automotive industry have an ever higher power density with a relatively compact size. Among the various existing solutions to improve torque and power density, a reduction in the dimensions of the end-windings has been explored, aiming to decrease volume, weight, and losses. However, more compact end-windings often lead to complex shapes of the conductors, especially when preformed hairpin windings are considered. The rectangular cross-section of hairpin conductors makes them prone to deviating out of the bending plane during the forming process. This phenomenon, known as torsional–flexural instability, is influenced by the specific aspect ratio of the cross-section dimensions and the bending direction. This study focuses on understanding this instability phenomenon, aiming to identify a potential threshold of the cross-section aspect ratio. The instability makes it difficult to predict the final geometry, potentially compromising the compliance with the geometric tolerances. A finite element model is developed to analyse a single planar bend in a hairpin conductor. Various cross-section dimensions with different aspect ratios are simulated identifying those that experience instability. Moreover, an experimental campaign is conducted to confirm the occurrence of instability by testing the same single planar bending. The experimental data obtained are used to validate the finite element model for the tested dimensions. The aim is to provide designers with a useful tool to select hairpin geometries that are more suitable for the folding process, contributing to successful assembly and improving the overall design process of preformed hairpin conductors.
AMED: Automatic Mixed-Precision Quantization for Edge Devices
Authors: Kimhi Moshe , Rozen Tal , Mendelson Avi , Baskin Chaim
Published: June 2024

Quantized neural networks are well known for reducing the latency, power consumption, and model size without significant harm to the performance. This makes them highly appropriate for systems with limited resources and low power capacity. Mixed-precision quantization offers better utilization of customized hardware that supports arithmetic operations at different bitwidths. Quantization methods either aim to minimize the compression loss given a desired reduction or optimize a dependent variable for a specified property of the model (such as FLOPs or model size); both make the performance inefficient when deployed on specific hardware, but more importantly, quantization methods assume that the loss manifold holds a global minimum for a quantized model that copes with the global minimum of the full precision counterpart. Challenging this assumption, we argue that the optimal minimum changes as the precision changes, and thus, it is better to look at quantization as a random process, placing the foundation for a different approach to quantize neural networks, which, during the training procedure, quantizes the model to a different precision, looks at the bit allocation as a Markov Decision Process, and then, finds an optimal bitwidth allocation for measuring specified behaviors on a specific device via direct signals from the particular hardware architecture. By doing so, we avoid the basic assumption that the loss behaves the same way for a quantized model. Automatic Mixed-Precision Quantization for Edge Devices (dubbed AMED) demonstrates its superiority over current state-of-the-art schemes in terms of the trade-off between neural network accuracy and hardware efficiency, backed by a comprehensive evaluation.
On Global Solutions of Two-Dimensional Hyperbolic Equations with General-Kind Nonlocal Potentials
Authors: Muravnik Andrey B.
Published: June 2024

In the case of one spatial independent variable, we study hyperbolic differential-difference equations with potentials represented as linear combinations of translations of the desired function along the spatial variable. The qualitative novelty of this investigation is that, unlike previous research, it is not assumed that the real part of the symbol of the differential-difference operator contained in the equation has a constant sign. Previously, it was possible to remove that substantial restriction (i.e., the specified sign constancy) only for the case where the nonlocal term (i.e., the translated potential) is unique. In the present paper, we consider the case of the general-kind one-variable nonlocal potential, i.e., equations with an arbitrary amount of translated terms. No commensurability assumptions are imposed on the translation lengths. The following results are presented: We find a condition relating the coefficients at the nonlocal terms of the investigated equation and the length of the translations, providing the global solvability of the investigated equation. Under this condition, we explicitly construct a three-parametric family of smooth global solutions of the investigated equation.
Valorization of Sour Cherry Kernels: Extraction of Polyphenols Using Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents (NADESs)
Authors: Božović Danica , Dimić Ivana , Teslić Nemanja , Mišan Aleksandra , Pojić Milica , Stupar Alena , Mandić Anamarija , Milošević Sanja , Zeković Zoran , Pavlić Branimir
Published: June 2024

The objective of this research was to optimize the natural deep eutectic solvent (NADES) extraction process from sour cherry kernels (Prunus cerasus L.). For polyphenol isolation, conventional solid–liquid extraction was employed using different concentrations of ethanol (0, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, and 96%), as well as the innovative NADES extraction technique. In the initial phase of the research, a screening of 10 different NADESs was conducted, while extraction was carried out under constant parameters (50 °C, 1:20 w/w, 60 min). NADES 4, composed of lactic acid and glucose in a molar ratio of 5:1, exhibited the highest efficiency in the polyphenol isolation. In the subsequent phase of the research, response surface methodology (RSM) was utilized to optimize the extraction process. Three independent variables, namely temperature, extraction time, and solid–liquid (S/L) ratio, were examined at three different levels. The extracted samples were analyzed for total phenol (TP) and antioxidant activity using the DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP assays. ANOVA and descriptive statistics (R2 and CV) were performed to fit the applied model. According to RSM, the optimal extraction conditions were determined as follows: temperature of 70 °C, extraction time of 161 min, and S/L ratio of 1:25 w/w.
Synthesis and Photophysical Characterization of Fluorescent Naphtho[2,3-d]thiazole-4,9-Diones and Their Antimicrobial Activity against Staphylococcus Strains
Authors: Hagimori Masayori , Hara Fumiko , Mizuyama Naoko , Takada Shinya , Hayashi Saki , Haraguchi Tamami , Hatanaka Yoshiro , Nagao Toshihiro , Tanaka Shigemitsu , Yoshii Miki , Yoshida Miyako
Published: June 2024

The chemical reaction of 2-(methylsulfinyl)naphtho[2,3-d]thiazole-4,9-dione (3) using different amines, including benzylamine (4a), morpholine (4b), thiomorpholine (4c), piperidine (4d), and 4-methylpiperazine (4e), produced corresponding new tricyclic naphtho[2,3-d]thiazole–4,9–dione compounds (5a–e) in moderate-to-good yields. The photophysical properties and antimicrobial activities of these compounds (5a–e) were then characterized. Owing to the extended π-conjugated system of naphtho[2,3-d]thiazole–4,9–dione skeleton and substituent effect, 5a–e showed fluorescence both in solution and in the solid state. The introduction of nitrogen-containing heterocycles at position 2 of the thiazole ring on naphtho[2,3-d]thiazole-4,9-dione led to large bathochromic shifts in solution, and 5b–e exhibited orange-red fluorescence with emission maxima of over 600 nm in highly polar solvents. Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) is a highly pathogenic bacterium, and infection with its antimicrobial-resistant pathogen methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) results in serious clinical problems. In this study, we also investigated the antimicrobial activities of 5a–e against S. aureus, MRSA, and S. epidermidis. Compounds 5c with thiomorpholine group and 5e with 4-methylpiperazine group showed potent antimicrobial activity against these bacteria. These results will lead to the development of new fluorescent dyes with antimicrobial activity in the future.