bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Case report: Long term follow-up of a large unilateral epididymal cyst in a stallion used for teaching: Is this condition associated with infertility?
Authors: Silva Gabriela Fernandes , Cunha Raquel , Carvalho Fátima , Ribeiro Mário , Rocha António , Amorim Irina , Guimarães Tiago
Published: March 2023

A 30-year-old Lusitano stallion presented with an enlarged right epididymis. The ultrasound scan revealed a cyst-like formation and the histopathological examination was compatible with epididymal cyst located at the body/tail transition, epididymal spermatocele and sperm granuloma and epididymitis. However, these conditions did not seem to affect the animal's reproductive performance, nor did the semen parameters analyzed over the 8 years after the diagnosis show significant changes. Nevertheless, since the ejaculate contains mostly sperm cells from the tail of the epididymis, where fertile spermatozoa are stored until ejaculated, a deep knowledge of the different conditions that can affect this organ is of the utmost importance.
Piroplasms in farmed American bison, Bison bison from Romania
Authors: Corduneanu Alexandra , Taulescu Marian , Ursache Teodor Dan , Ionică Angela Monica , Mihalca Andrei Daniel
Published: March 2023

The American bison (Bison bison) is the largest terrestrial mammal of North America, with around 350,000 individuals in the wild and in private herds but the knowledge regarding the presence of different vector-borne pathigens in these mammals is very poor. Babesia and Theileria spp. are tick-borne apicomplexan parasites which are considered to be among the most commonly found blood parasites of large ruminants, often with a high economic importance. However, the knowledge on piroplasms of bisons is extremely scarce. The aim of our study was to evaluate the presence of apicomplexan parasites in blood and tissues of farmed American bison from Romania. Overall, we tested 222 blood samples and 11 tissues samples (heart, liver, and spleen) from farmed B. bison raised for meat in Romania. All the samples were analyzed by nPCR targeting the 18SrRNA gene for piroplasmids. All positive samples were sequenced and analyzed phylogenetically. The overall prevalence of infection with piroplasmids in American bison was 1.65%, with Babesia divergens and Theileria sp. identified following sequencing. To our knowledge, this is the first report of piroplasms detected in blood and tissues of farmed B. bison from Europe. Further studies are necessary in order to obtain a better overview on the epidemiological status and clinical relevance of piroplasms in farmed American bisons.
DISubNet: Depthwise Separable Inception Subnetwork for Pig Treatment Classification Using Thermal Data
Authors: Colaco Savina Jassica , Kim Jung Hwan , Poulose Alwin , Neethirajan Suresh , Han Dong Seog
Published: March 2023

Thermal imaging is increasingly used in poultry, swine, and dairy animal husbandry to detect disease and distress. In intensive pig production systems, early detection of health and welfare issues is crucial for timely intervention. Using thermal imaging for pig treatment classification can improve animal welfare and promote sustainable pig production. In this paper, we present a depthwise separable inception subnetwork (DISubNet), a lightweight model for classifying four pig treatments. Based on the modified model architecture, we propose two DISubNet versions: DISubNetV1 and DISubNetV2. Our proposed models are compared to other deep learning models commonly employed for image classification. The thermal dataset captured by a forward-looking infrared (FLIR) camera is used to train these models. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed models for thermal images of various pig treatments outperform other models. In addition, both proposed models achieve approximately 99.96–99.98% classification accuracy with fewer parameters.
Transcriptome Analysis Reveals the Immunoregulation of Replacing Fishmeal with Cottonseed Protein Concentrates on Litopenaeus vannamei
Authors: Wang Hongming , Hu Xin , Chen Jian , Yuan Hang , Hu Naijie , Tan Beiping , Dong Xiaohui , Zhang Shuang
Published: March 2023

Cottonseed protein concentrate (CPC) is a new non-food protein source with high crude protein, low price, and abundant resources, making it an ideal substitute for fishmeal. In this study, we investigated the effects of CPC re placing fishmeal on the immune response of Litopenaeus vannamei using transcriptome sequencing. L. vannamei (initial body weight: 0.42 ± 0.01 g) were fed four isonitrogenous and isolipid feeds for eight weeks, with CPC replacing fishmeal at 0% (control, FM), 15% (CPC15), 30% (CPC30), and 45% (CPC45), respectively. At the end of the feeding trial, the changes of the activities and expression of immune-related enzymes were consistent in L. vannamei in the CPC-containing group when compared with the FM group. Among them, the activities of ACP, PO, and LZM in the group whose diet was CPC30 were significantly higher than those in the FM group. Moreover, the activities of AKP, SOD, and CAT were significantly higher in the group containing CPC than in the FM group. Furthermore, all CPC groups had considerably lower MDA levels than the FM group. This suggests that the substitution of fishmeal with CPC leads to a significant immune response in L. vannamei. Compared with the FM group, transcriptome analysis identified 805 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) (484 down and 321 up), 694 (266 down and 383 up), and 902 (434 down and 468 up) in CPC15, CPC30, and CPC45, respectively. Among all DEGs, 121 DEGs were shared among different CPC-containing groups compared with the FM group. Most of these differential genes are involved in immune-related signaling pathways. The top 20 signaling pathways enriched for differential genes contained toxoplasmosis, pathogenic Escherichia coli infection, insulin resistance, and Toll and immune deficiency (IMD) pathways, in which NF-kappa-B inhibitor Cactus were involved. In addition, trend analysis comparison of the DEGs shared by the group with CPC in the diet and the FM group showed that Cactus genes were significantly down-regulated in the group with CPC in the diet and were lowest in the CPC30 group. Consistently, the expression of antimicrobial peptide genes was significantly higher in both diet-containing CPC groups than in the FM group. In conclusion, the moderate amount of CPC substituted for fishmeal may improve the immunity of L. vannamei by suppressing the expression of Cactus genes, thereby increasing the expression of antimicrobial peptide (AMP) genes.
Measurement of Calprotectin (S100A8/A9) in the Saliva of Pigs: Validation Data of A Commercially Available Automated Assay and Changes in Sepsis, Inflammation, and Stress
Authors: López-Martínez María José , Martínez-Subiela Silvia , Cerón José Joaquín , Ortín-Bustillo Alba , Ramis Guillermo , López-Arjona Marina , Martínez-Miró Silvia , Manzanilla Edgar García , Eckersall Peter David , Tecles Fernando , Escribano Damián , Muñoz-Prieto Alberto
Published: March 2023

Calprotectin (CALP, S100A8/A9), also named myeloid-related protein 8/14, is a dimer complex of S100A8 and S100A9 that belongs to the S-100 protein family. It is involved in inflammation and has a wide range of proinflammatory functions, such as cytokine production and regulation of leukocyte adhesion, migration, and phagocytosis. In humans, CALP traditionally can be measured in faeces, serum, and saliva as a biomarker of inflammation and sepsis. The objective of this study was to validate an automated assay for CALP measurements in the saliva of pigs, having the advantage of the use of a non-invasive sample that is easy to collect. The assay was precise and accurate. CALP in saliva measured by this assay showed significant changes depending on the hour of the day. It also showed significant increases in the saliva of pigs after the administration of lipopolysaccharide (LPS), and showed a rise, although with increases of lower magnitude, after a stressful stimulus. Further studies should be made to gain knowledge about the possible practical applications of the measurements of CALP in the saliva of pigs as a biomarker to evaluate the animals’ health and welfare.
Comparison of Five Different Selective Agar for the Detection of Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococcus faecium
Authors: Boschert Alessa L. , Arndt Franca , Hamprecht Axel , Wolke Martina , Walker Sarah V.
Published: March 2023

Five commercially available selective agar were evaluated regarding sensitivity and specificity to detect vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus (E.) faecium. Altogether 187 E. faecium strains were included, comprising 119 van-carrying strains (phenotypically vancomycin-resistant n = 105; phenotypically vancomycin-susceptible VVE-B n = 14) and 68 vancomycin-susceptible isolates. Limit of detection was calculated for each selective agar for pure cultures, stool suspensions and artificial rectal swabs. After 24-h incubation sensitivity ranged between 91.6% and 95.0%. It increased in 2 out of 5 agar after 48-h incubation. Specificity ranged between 94.1% and 100% and was highest after 24 h in 4 out of the 5 agar. Sensitivity of van-carrying phenotypically vancomycin-resistant strains was higher after 24 h (97.1–100%) and 48 h (99.1–100%) when compared to van-carrying strains that tested vancomycin-susceptible (50.0–57.1% after both incubation periods). Overall, chromID VRE, CHROMagar VRE and Brilliance VRE demonstrated the highest detection rates after 24 h. Detection rates of Chromatic VRE and VRESelect improved after 48 h. Adjustment of incubation time depending on the applied media may be advised. As detection of VVE-B was impeded with all selective agar, screening for vancomycin-resistant enterococci relying solely on selective media would not be recommended for critical clinical samples, but rather in combination with molecular methods to improve detection of these strains. Furthermore, stool samples were demonstrated to be superior to rectal swabs and should be favoured, if possible, in screening strategies.
Pore Fractal Characteristics of Lacustrine Shale of Upper Cretaceous Nenjiang Formation from the Songliao Basin, NE China
Authors: Dong Tian , Kang Lei , Zhang Yifan , Gao Yuan
Published: March 2023

The evaluation of pore characteristics in lacustrine shales is of significance for shale oil and gas exploration in terrestrial sedimentary basins. However, due to the complex depositional environments, there have been few reports on the quantitative evaluation of lacustrine pores. In this study, we carry out experiments, e.g., scanning electron microscopy (SEM), nitrogen adsorption, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and rock pyrolysis, on sixteen lacustrine shale core samples of the Late Cretaceous Nenjiang Formation (K2n1+2) in the Songliao Basin. At the same time, we bring in the fractal dimensions to quantitatively characterize the pores of shale samples in K2n1+2. The kerogen type of shales in the Nenjiang Formation is mainly type Ⅰ. The shales of K2n1+2 develop a large number of mineral intergranular pores and a small number of organic pores and mineral intragranular pores. The primary minerals of the samples are clay minerals and quartz. The total organic carbon (TOC) has a correlation with the pore physical parameters, whereas the content of minerals does not correlate significantly with pore development. The average pore fractal dimensions obtained from the analysis of nitrogen adsorption data are D1 = 2.5308 and D2 = 2.6557. There is a significant negative correlation between the fractal dimensions (D1 and D2) and the TOC content: the lower the fractal dimensions, the higher the TOC, and the more the free oil. In low maturity shales with higher TOC content, due to hydrocarbon generation, larger pores with a regular shape (small fractal parameters) can be produced, which can store more free oil. The shale reservoir evaluation of K2n1+2 in the Songliao Basin should be focused on shales with higher TOC and lower pore fractal parameters. Our work provides a reference for the shale oil evaluation of K2n1+2 in the Songliao Basin and complements studies on lacustrine pore characteristics.
Analysis of Information Transmission Characteristics Based on Adaptive Ground Electrode Current Field
Authors: He Jingang , Yuan Hang , Su Zhong , Zhao Bin , Kuang Zhe , Song Pengfei
Published: March 2023

The information transmission mechanism of the ground electrode current field uses a very low-frequency electrical signal, which is applied to the two electrodes driven into the soil layer or the collapsed body of the tunnel to form a current field in the rock layer or soil layer. Signal detection is created via the strong penetration of wireless information transmission. This research focuses on various electromagnetic effects, such as polarization, magnetization, and the transmission of electromagnetic waves under the influence of different media, such as rock, sand, reinforced concrete, and air voids. The influence of these adaptive electromagnetic effects on the transmission of electromagnetic waves is mainly reflected in the reflection, refraction, and attenuation of electromagnetic wave signals. The inhomogeneity of the earth medium, the influence of topographic features, and multi-path transmission all cause signal distortion, fading, or changes in the direction of electromagnetic wave propagation. By studying the three physical quantities of magnetic permeability, permittivity, and conductivity, the electromagnetic characteristics of the earth medium are described to research the information transmission characteristics of the earth electrode current field.
Multiple Object Tracking Using Re-Identification Model with Attention Module
Authors: Ahn Woo-Jin , Ko Koung-Suk , Lim Myo-Taeg , Pae Dong-Sung , Kang Tae-Koo
Published: March 2023

Multi-object tracking (MOT) has gained significant attention in computer vision due to its wide range of applications. Specifically, detection-based trackers have shown high performance in MOT, but they tend to fail in occlusive scenarios such as the moment when objects overlap or separate. In this paper, we propose a triplet-based MOT network that integrates the tracking information and the visual features of the object. Using a triplet-based image feature, the network can differentiate similar-looking objects, reducing the number of identity switches over a long period. Furthermore, an attention-based re-identification model that focuses on the appearance of objects was introduced to extract the feature vectors from the images to effectively associate the objects. The extensive experimental results demonstrated that the proposed method outperforms existing methods on the ID switch metric and improves the detection performance of the tracking system.
Acquisition and Processing of UAV Fault Data Based on Time Line Modeling Method
Authors: Yang Tao , Lu Yu , Deng Hongli , Chen Jiangchuan , Tang Xiaomei
Published: March 2023

The number of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) used in various industries has increased exponentially, and abnormal detection of UAVs is one of the primary technical means to ensure that UAVs can work normally. Currently, most anomaly detection models are trained using on-board logs from drones. However, in some cases, using these logs can be problematic due to data encryption, inconsistent descriptions of characteristics, and imbalanced positive and negative samples. Consequently, the on-board logs of UAVs may not be directly usable for training anomaly detection models. Given the above problems, this paper proposes a Time Line Modeling (TLM) method based on the UAV software-in-the-loop (SITL) simulation environment to obtain and process the on-board failure logs of drones. The Time Line Modeling method includes two stages: the Fault Time Point Anchoring Method and Fault Time Window Stretching Method. First, based on the SITL simulation environment, multiple flight missions were constructed. Failures of several common components of UAVs are designed. Secondly, the fault’s initial location and end location are determined by the method of Fault Time Point Anchoring, and the original collection of tagged UAV’s on-board data is realized. Then, in terms of data processing, the features that are not universal are removed, and the flight data of the UAV is optimized by using the data balance method of Time Window Stretching to achieve the balance of normal data and abnormal data. Finally, use of algorithms such as Sequential Minimal Optimization (SMO), Random Forest (RF), and Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) were used to experiment with the processed data. The experimental results showed that the data set obtained based on this method can be effectively applied to the training of machine learning-based anomaly detection models.
Comparison of Clear Aligner Treatment in First-Treatment and Re-Treatment Patients: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Timm Lan Huong , Rößler Ralf , Baxmann Martin
Published: March 2023

This retrospective real-world study aimed to evaluate the outcomes of clear aligner treatment (CAT) and patient demographics of patients seeking orthodontic re-treatment who had previously received orthodontic treatment in childhood or adolescence. The study was conducted using anonymized data from DrSmile (Berlin, Germany), a CAT provider in Europe. Data were collected from a total of 2080 patients in Germany (71.5% female, 28.5% male, ranging from 18–70 years, median 29.0 years), who completed their CAT between 1 June and 30 June 2022. Patients were divided into two groups: adult first-treatment patients (n = 1587) and adult re-treatment patients (n = 493). Results showed that re-treatment patients had a shorter treatment duration (p < 0.05), required fewer interproximal reductions (IPR) (p < 0.001), and had fewer clinical visits (mean 2.96 versus 4.14 visits) than first-treatment patients (p < 0.001). Data collected from adult orthodontic re-treatment and first-treatment patients indicated that the demographic characteristics of these two groups were very similar. No significant differences were found between re-treatment patients and first-treatment patients in terms of motives for orthodontic treatment (p = 0.068), types of insurance (p = 0.615), and treatment satisfaction (p = 0.673). The study highlights the need for orthodontists and dentists to provide adequate information to patients about long-term retention and decision-making for orthodontic treatment, especially for re-treatment.
Effects of Ultrashort Pulsed Direct Laser Writing on Ni/Al Reactive Multilayer Foils
Authors: Martins Maria Amélia , Müller Daniel Wyn , Schmauch Jörg , Glaser Marcus , Bergmann Jean Pierre , Mücklich Frank , Pauly Christoph
Published: March 2023

Reactive multilayer foils (RMFs) for joining processes have attracted a great deal of attention over the last few years. They are capable of exothermic self-propagating reactions and can serve as localized heat sources for joining applications when ignited by suitable means. Using short and ultrashort pulsed lasers with carefully selected parameters, cutting and shaping of RMFs makes it possible to tailor heat release characteristics without triggering the reaction. The present study is an investigation of microstructural changes induced by femtosecond laser machining of a commercially available Ni/Al-based RMF. The effects of the specific laser parameters pulse duration and repetition rate on the heat-affected zone (HAZ) are investigated by scanning and transmission electron microscopy. Debris consisting of oxide deposits can be found at a distance of several tens of microns from the cut edge. A negligible HAZ extending to less than 100 nm was observed for all parameters tested and no signs of ignition of a self-propagating reaction were observed. These results underline the suitability of femtosecond lasers for metal machining with minimal heat input.
Dynamic Response Analysis of RC Frame against Progressive Collapse Based on Orthogonal Test
Authors: Ke Changren , Li Xianwei , Jiang Junling
Published: March 2023

We aimed to investigate the extent to which the initial state generated by unexpected loads, such as explosions and impacts on the remaining structure, affects the dynamic response of the structure. The study used the orthogonal test method to obtain orthogonal table L25 (53) by combining five levels of each of the three factors of column removal time and initial velocity, and the initial displacement of the remaining structure under three failure scenarios of the corner, side, and internal columns at the ground floor of the reinforced concrete frame structure. The degree of influence of different factors on the structural dynamic response, and the result of the unifactorial impact of initial velocity and initial displacement of the remaining structure on the structural dynamic response in the case of failure of the bottom side columns, were obtained by the polar difference method. The results show that the analysis using the orthogonal test polar difference method revealed that the initial displacement has a more significant influence on the dynamic response of the structure, forming the main influencing factor. At the same time, the failure time and initial velocity have a smaller influence on the dynamic response of the structure as secondary influencing factors. In the case of unifactorial influence, the initial upward displacement and initial upward velocity are detrimental to the structure, leading to progressive collapse. In contrast, the initial downward velocity and initial downward displacement are favorable.
The Effect of Callus and Corns Removal Treatments on Foot Geometry Parameters, Foot Pressure, and Foot Pain Reduction in Women
Authors: Antończak Paweł Piotr , Hartman-Petrycka Magdalena , Garncarczyk Agnieszka , Adamczyk Katarzyna , Wcisło-Dziadecka Dominika , Błońska-Fajfrowska Barbara
Published: March 2023

Foot pain and deformities are significant problems that increase with age and are significantly more prevalent in women. Calluses and corns are both common and inconvenient, and the accompanying pain complaints significantly reduce the quality of life. Professional foot care is one of the key elements in the prevention of foot disorders and improves the comfort of people with such problems. The aim of the present research was to assess the impact of podiatry treatments on the foot conditions, including parameters related to foot geometry, the forefoot pressure on the ground, and the occurrence of pain in women over 50. In each volunteer, history and physical examination were performed and an objective assessment with the use of the digital foot scanner and the baropodometric measurements was performed. The examinations were conducted before the beginning of the procedures and up to a week after each of the three podiatry treatments performed at monthly intervals. Specialist foot care treatments influenced the values of the hallux valgus angle, the varus angle of the fifth toe, and the longitudinal arch. After each treatment, the percentage of feet with normal longitudinal arch was significantly greater than before the treatments. The treatments influenced the value of pressure in the forefoot. The percentage of feet with pain decreased significantly after each treatment. Performed podiatry treatments, consisting of the removal of changes related to keratosis, not only normalized the parameters related to foot geometry and the forefoot pressure on the ground but also reduced foot pain.
Urban Heat Mitigation towards Climate Change Adaptation: An Eco-Sustainable Design Strategy to Improve Environmental Performance under Rapid Urbanization
Authors: Makvandi Mehdi , Li Wenjing , Ou Xiongquan , Chai Hua , Khodabakhshi Zeinab , Fu Jiayan , Yuan Philip F. , Horimbere Elyse de la Joie
Published: March 2023

Rapid urbanization has led to drastic land-use/cover changes (LUCCs) and urban heat islands (UHIs), negatively altering the urban climate and air quality. LUCC’s significant impacts on human health and energy consumption have inspired researchers to develop nature-based solutions to mitigate UHIs and improve air quality. However, integrating GIS-CFD modeling for urban heat mitigation towards climate change adaptation was largely neglected for eco-sustainable urban design in rapidly urbanizing areas. In this study, (1) long-term LUCC and meteorological analysis were conducted in the Wuhan metropolitan area from 1980 to 2016; (2) to mitigate the adverse effects of LUCC under a speedy development process, the role and relevance of optimizing building morphology and urban block configuration were discussed; (3) and particular design attention in strategy towards climate change adaptation for environmental performance improvement was paid in Wuhan’s fast-growing zones. The results show that UHII in 1980 was less severe than in 2016. Air temperature (Ta) increased by 0.4 °C on average per decade in developing areas. This increases the severity of UHII in urban fringes. It is found obligatory for a nature-based design to adopt urban morphology indicators (UMIs) such as average building height (μBH), sky view factors (ψSVF), and building density (BD/λp = % of built area) towards these changes. Further, on-site measurement revealed that λp is the most effective indicator for increasing urban heat around the buildings and boosting UHII. Using UMIs and a combined three-in-one regulation strategy based on μBH of common building types of high-rise (BHA), mid-rise (BHB), and low-rise (BHC) buildings can effectively contribute to regulating Ta and air movement within block configuration. As a result of this study’s strategy, urban heat is mitigated via reinforcing wind in order to adapt to climate change, which impacts the quality of life directly in developing areas.
Filtration Kinetics of Depth Filters—Modeling and Comparison with Tomographic Data of Particle Depositions
Authors: Hoppe Kevin , Wischemann Lukas , Schaldach Gerhard , Zielke Reiner , Tillmann Wolfgang , Thommes Markus , Pieloth Damian
Published: March 2023

Depth filtration is a widespread technique for the separation of airborne particles. The evolution of the pressure difference within this process is determined to a significant extent by the filter structure. Simulations are an important tool for optimizing the filter structure, allowing the development of filter materials having high filtration efficiencies and low pressure differences. Because of the large number of physical phenomena and the complex structure of filter materials, simulations of the filtration kinetics are, however, challenging. In this context, one-dimensional models are advantageous for the calculation of the filtration kinetics of depth filters, due to their low computation requirements. In this work, an approach for combining a one-dimensional model with microstructural data of filter materials is presented. This enables more realistic modeling of the filtration process. Calculations were performed on a macroscopic as well as microscopic level and compared to experimental data. With the suggested approach, the influence of a measured microstructure on the results was examined and predictability was improved. Especially for small research departments and for the development of optimized filter materials adapted to specific separation tasks, this approach provides a valuable tool.
Diurnal Outdoor Thermal Comfort Mapping through Envi-Met Simulations, Remotely Sensed and In Situ Measurements
Authors: Fiorillo Edoardo , Brilli Lorenzo , Carotenuto Federico , Cremonini Letizia , Gioli Beniamino , Giordano Tommaso , Nardino Marianna
Published: March 2023

Physiological equivalent temperature (PET) is one of most used indices for outdoor human well-being evaluation; its determination is particularly helpful for adaptation strategies in built-up areas affected by the urban heat island (UHI) phenomenon. In this work, we presented a methodology to compute spatially and temporally resolved PET values during a heatwave at the city level, based on a combination of satellite products, in situ measurements and Envi-met model runs upscaled from specific test areas to the broader city. The method exploits the ECOSTRESS sensor to detect surface thermal patterns at different diurnal times by developing an hourly based index called hUHTI (hourly urban heatwave thermal index) that serves as a proxy. A case study on Prato (Italy) municipality during the 2021 summer heatwave events is presented. Based on the available satellite products, a set of six hourly diurnal PET maps at 10 m spatial resolution were derived and daytime outdoor thermal patterns and trends were investigated according to land cover. hUHTI index resulted a more suitable tool as PET proxy compared to the sole ECOSTRESS land surface temperature (LST) product, especially for morning and evening times. Hourly PET maps were summarized by the use of an average exceedance map providing public administrations and stakeholders a synthetic tool for urban regeneration purposes at city scale.
Systematic Review of Aggregation Functions Applied to Image Edge Detection
Authors: Amorim Miqueias , Dimuro Gracaliz , Borges Eduardo , Dalmazo Bruno L. , Marco-Detchart Cedric , Lucca Giancarlo , Bustince Humberto
Published: March 2023

Edge detection is a crucial process in numerous stages of computer vision. This field of study has recently gained momentum due to its importance in various applications. The uncertainty, among other characteristics of images, makes it difficult to accurately determine the edge of objects. Furthermore, even the definition of an edge is vague as an edge can be considered as the maximum boundary between two regions with different properties. Given the advancement of research in image discontinuity detection, especially using aggregation and pre-aggregation functions, and the lack of systematic literature reviews on this topic, this paper aims to gather and synthesize the current state of the art of this topic. To achieve this, this paper presents a systematic review of the literature, which selected 24 papers filtered from 428 articles found in computer databases in the last seven years. It was possible to synthesize important related information, which was grouped into three approaches: (i) based on both multiple descriptor extraction and data aggregation, (ii) based on both the aggregation of distance functions and fuzzy C-means, and (iii) based on fuzzy theory, namely type-2 fuzzy and neutrosophic sets. As a conclusion, this review provides interesting gaps that can be explored in future work.
A New Reliability Class-Test Statistic for Life Distributions under Convolution, Mixture and Homogeneous Shock Model: Characterizations and Applications in Engineering and Medical Fields
Authors: Etman Walid B. , El-Morshedy Mahmoud , Eliwa Mohamed S. , Almohaimeed Amani , EL-Sagheer Rashad M.
Published: March 2023

Over the past few decades, a new area of reliability known as classes of life distributions has developed as a result of the creation of metrics for evaluating the success or failure of reliability. This paper proposes a new reliability class-test statistic for life distributions. In some reliability processes, such as convolution, mixture, and homogeneous shock models, the closure characteristics of the proposed class-test statistic are investigated. To compare the proposed class-test against some competitive tests, the Weibull, linear failure rate (LFR), and Makeham distributions are evaluated. In addition, the relationship between sample size, level of confidence, and critical values is considered to assess the efficacy of the proposed class-test. Furthermore, a Monte Carlo null distribution critical points simulation and some applications of the censored and uncensored data are performed to demonstrate the validity of the proposed class-test in reliability analysis.
Biocompatible Macroion/Growth Factor Assemblies for Medical Applications
Authors: Michna Aneta , Pomorska Agata , Ozcan Ozlem
Published: March 2023

Growth factors are a class of proteins that play a role in the proliferation (the increase in the number of cells resulting from cell division) and differentiation (when a cell undergoes changes in gene expression becoming a more specific type of cell) of cells. They can have both positive (accelerating the normal healing process) and negative effects (causing cancer) on disease progression and have potential applications in gene therapy and wound healing. However, their short half-life, low stability, and susceptibility to degradation by enzymes at body temperature make them easily degradable in vivo. To improve their effectiveness and stability, growth factors require carriers for delivery that protect them from heat, pH changes, and proteolysis. These carriers should also be able to deliver the growth factors to their intended destination. This review focuses on the current scientific literature concerning the physicochemical properties (such as biocompatibility, high affinity for binding growth factors, improved bioactivity and stability of the growth factors, protection from heat, pH changes or appropriate electric charge for growth factor attachment via electrostatic interactions) of macroions, growth factors, and macroion-growth factor assemblies, as well as their potential uses in medicine (e.g., diabetic wound healing, tissue regeneration, and cancer therapy). Specific attention is given to three types of growth factors: vascular endothelial growth factors, human fibroblast growth factors, and neurotrophins, as well as selected biocompatible synthetic macroions (obtained through standard polymerization techniques) and polysaccharides (natural macroions composed of repeating monomeric units of monosaccharides). Understanding the mechanisms by which growth factors bind to potential carriers could lead to more effective delivery methods for these proteins, which are of significant interest in the diagnosis and treatment of neurodegenerative and civilization diseases, as well as in the healing of chronic wounds.
Biosensor Design for the Detection of Circulating Tumor Cells Using the Quartz Crystal Resonator Technique
Authors: Alawajji Raad A. , Alsudani Zeid A. Nima , Biris Alexandrus S. , Kannarpady Ganesh K.
Published: March 2023

A new mass-sensitive biosensing approach for detecting circulating tumor cells (CTCs) using a quartz crystal resonator (QCR) has been developed. A mathematical model was used to design a ring electrode-based QCR to eliminate the Gaussian spatial distribution of frequency response in the first harmonic mode, a characteristic of QCRs, without compromising the sensitivity of frequency response. An ink-dot method was used to validate the ring electrode fabricated based on our model. Furthermore, the ring electrode QCR was experimentally tested for its ability to capture circulating tumor cells, and the results were compared with a commercially available QCR with a keyhole electrode. An indirect method of surface immobilization technique was employed via modification of the SiO2 surface of the ring electrode using a silane, protein, and anti-EpCAM. The ring electrode successfully demonstrated eliminating the spatial nonuniformity of frequency response for three cancer cell lines, i.e., MCF-7, PANC-1, and PC-3, compared with the keyhole QCR, which showed nonuniform spatial response for the same cancer cell lines. These results are promising for developing QCR-based biosensors for the early detection of cancer cells, with the potential for point-of-care diagnosis for cancer screening.
Surfactant-Assisted Label-Free Fluorescent Aptamer Biosensors and Binding Assays
Authors: Zhang Hanxiao , Li Albert Zehan , Liu Juewen
Published: March 2023

Using DNA staining dyes such as SYBR Green I (SGI) and thioflavin T (ThT) to perform label-free detection of aptamer binding has been performed for a long time for both binding assays and biosensor development. Since these dyes are cationic, they can also adsorb to the wall of reaction vessels leading to unstable signals and even false interpretations of the results. In this work, the stability of the signal was first evaluated using ThT and the classic adenosine aptamer. In a polystyrene microplate, a drop in fluorescence was observed even when non-binding targets or water were added, whereas a more stable signal was achieved in a quartz cuvette. Equilibrating the system can also improve signal stability. In addition, a few polymers and surfactants were also screened, and 0.01% Triton X-100 was found to have the best protection effect against fluorescence signal decrease due to dye adsorption. Three aptamers for Hg2+, adenosine, and cortisol were tested for their sensitivity and signal stability in the absence and presence of Triton X-100. In each case, the sensitivity was similar, whereas the signal stability was better for the surfactant. This study indicates that careful control experiments need to be designed to ensure reliable results and that the reliability can be improved by using Triton X-100 and a long equilibration time.
Consensus-Based Measures for Improvement of Off-Plan Sales Program of Housing Units in Real Estate Market of Riyadh City
Authors: Alqahtany Ali , Alshihri Faez S. , Alshammari Maher S. , Alqahtany Hani , Alzenifeer Badran M. , Almusallam Abed A. , Al-Gehlani Wadee Ahmed Ghanem , Bouregh Adel Saleh , Aldossary Naief A. , Alyami Saleh H.
Published: March 2023

This study aims to review the off-plan sales program to identify the financial and marketing challenges being faced by such programs in Saudi Arabia and formulate consensus-based measures to overcome these challenges. The study implies an analytical descriptive method to achieve its objectives, based on the opinion of experts involved in the off-plan sales program and analyzing the data using the Delphi technique. Various statistical parameters were calculated to validate the obtained results. The study found several challenges being faced by off-plan sales programs, including financing challenges such as mortgaging on the land deed, as well as marketing challenges, including low turnout of the buyers due to the long duration of project implementation. The study concludes with several suggested measures, the most important of which is to find an alternative to the condition of mortgaging the land deed, such as putting insurance on the project or providing a financial bank guarantee. The study contributes to the improvement of the real estate sector of Saudi Arabia and would benefit the construction and development sectors as well.
Blood- and Imaging-Derived Biomarkers for Oncological Outcome Modelling in Oropharyngeal Cancer: Exploring the Low-Hanging Fruit
Authors: Volpe Stefania , Gaeta Aurora , Colombo Francesca , Zaffaroni Mattia , Mastroleo Federico , Vincini Maria Giulia , Pepa Matteo , Isaksson Lars Johannes , Turturici Irene , Marvaso Giulia , Ferrari Annamaria , Cammarata Giulio , Santamaria Riccardo , Franzetti Jessica , Raimondi Sara , Botta Francesca , Ansarin Mohssen , Gandini Sara , Cremonesi Marta , Orecchia Roberto , Alterio Daniela , Jereczek-Fossa Barbara Alicja
Published: March 2023

Aims: To assess whether CT-based radiomics and blood-derived biomarkers could improve the prediction of overall survival (OS) and locoregional progression-free survival (LRPFS) in patients with oropharyngeal cancer (OPC) treated with curative-intent RT. Methods: Consecutive OPC patients with primary tumors treated between 2005 and 2021 were included. Analyzed clinical variables included gender, age, smoking history, staging, subsite, HPV status, and blood parameters (baseline hemoglobin levels, neutrophils, monocytes, and platelets, and derived measurements). Radiomic features were extracted from the gross tumor volumes (GTVs) of the primary tumor using pyradiomics. Outcomes of interest were LRPFS and OS. Following feature selection, a radiomic score (RS) was calculated for each patient. Significant variables, along with age and gender, were included in multivariable analysis, and models were retained if statistically significant. The models’ performance was compared by the C-index. Results: One hundred and five patients, predominately male (71%), were included in the analysis. The median age was 59 (IQR: 52–66) years, and stage IVA was the most represented (70%). HPV status was positive in 63 patients, negative in 7, and missing in 35 patients. The median OS follow-up was 6.3 (IQR: 5.5–7.9) years. A statistically significant association between low Hb levels and poorer LRPFS in the HPV-positive subgroup (p = 0.038) was identified. The calculation of the RS successfully stratified patients according to both OS (log-rank p < 0.0001) and LRPFS (log-rank p = 0.0002). The C-index of the clinical and radiomic model resulted in 0.82 [CI: 0.80–0.84] for OS and 0.77 [CI: 0.75–0.79] for LRPFS. Conclusions: Our results show that radiomics could provide clinically significant informative content in this scenario. The best performances were obtained by combining clinical and quantitative imaging variables, thus suggesting the potential of integrative modeling for outcome predictions in this setting of patients.
Pathologic Response to Neoadjuvant Sequential Chemoradiation Therapy in Locally Advanced Breast Cancer: Preliminary, Translational Results from the French Neo-APBI-01 Trial
Authors: To Nhu Hanh , Gabelle-Flandin Isabelle , Luong Thi My Hanh , Loganadane Gokoulakrichenane , Ouidir Nabila , Boukhobza Chahrazed , Grellier Noémie , Verry Camille , Thiolat Allan , Cohen José L. , Radosevic-Robin Nina , Belkacemi Yazid
Published: March 2023

Background: Radiation therapy (RT), a novel approach to boost the anticancer immune response, has been progressively evaluated in the neoadjuvant setting in breast cancer (BC). Purpose: We aimed to evaluate immunity-related indicators of response to neoadjuvant chemoradiation therapy (NACRT) in BC for better treatment personalization. Patients and Methods: We analyzed data of the first 42 patients included in the randomized phase 2 Neo-APBI-01 trial comparing standard neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) and NACRT regimen in locally advanced triple-negative (TN) and luminal B (LB) subtype BC. Clinicopathological parameters, blood counts and the derived parameters, total tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) and their subpopulation, as well as TP53 mutation status, were assessed as predictors of response. Results: Twenty-one patients were equally assigned to each group. The pathologic complete response (pCR) was 33% and 38% in the NACT and NACRT groups, respectively, with a dose-response effect. Only one LB tumor reached pCR after NACRT. Numerous parameters associated with response were identified, which differed according to the assigned treatment. In the NACRT group, baseline hemoglobin of ≥13 g/dL and body mass index of <26 were strongly associated with pCR. Higher baseline neutrophils-to-lymphocytes ratio, total TILs, and T-effector cell counts were favorable for pCR. Conclusion: This preliminary analysis identified LB and low-TIL tumors as poor responders to the NACRT protocol, which delivered RT after several cycles of chemotherapy. These findings will allow for amending the selection of patients for the trial and help better design future trials of NACRT in BC.
Investigating the Synergistic Effect of Electrochemical Texturing and MoSeC Coatings on the Frictional Behaviour of Lubricated Contacts
Authors: Mahadeshwara Manoj Rajankunte , Rosa Fátima , Vuchkov Todor , Vilhena Luís , Ramalho Amílcar , Sharma Pooja , Cavaleiro Albano
Published: March 2023

The materials used for the piston cylinders of automobile engines, or the ring and tappets of various mechanical components, are continuously experiencing lubricated sliding motions. These surfaces are prone to damage due to the various tribological aspects of friction and wear. Hence, enhancing their surface properties would contribute to increasing their life and saving energy and resources. For many decades surface texturing and surface coating technology have been studied to improve the surface tribological behaviours of the materials. In the present study, the steel surface was textured with electrochemical processing (ECP) and post-coating with transition metal dichalcogenides (TMD) using a molybdenum-selenium-carbon (MoSeC) film. A comparative study was conducted to investigate the synergistic effect of surface texturing and coating to improve frictional properties on the steel surface. The block-on-ring experiments were performed under lubricated conditions to understand the improvement of COF at different lubrication regimes. It has been seen that the MoSeC-coated circular patterns exhibited improvements in the frictional properties at all the lubricated conditions if compared with smooth surfaces.
Microstructure and Mechanical Property Evolution of Robotic Friction Stir-Welded Al–Li Alloys
Authors: Wang Yisong , Jiang Haitao , Wu Xiaoyan , Meng Qiang
Published: March 2023

2198 aluminum–lithium alloy was friction stir-welded with a KUKA Robot integrated with a compact friction stir-welding head with a rotation speed of 800 rpm at different welding speeds. The real-time tool force in the three directions of Fx, Fy and Fz was measured with a load sensor. Mechanical properties and microstructure evolution were investigated systematically. The results showed that Fz force increased from 3.2 kN to 8.5 kN as welding speed increased from 50 mm/min to 500 mm/min. Ultimate tensile strength of 383 MPa, 88% of base metal, was obtained when the welding speed was 100 mm/min. The nugget zone consisted of refined grains with an average size of 4 μm. TEM investigation demonstrates that T1 precipitation predominated in the base metal and disappeared in the nugget zone, as a small amount of δ’ was retained. The W-shape hardness profile in all weldments and higher welding speed lead to a higher hardness value.
Virus-Specific Stem Cell Memory CD8+ T Cells May Indicate a Long-Term Protection against Evolving SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Aleksova Milena , Todorova Yana , Emilova Radoslava , Baymakova Magdalena , Yancheva Nina , Andonova Radina , Zasheva Anelia , Grifoni Alba , Weiskopf Daniela , Sette Alessandro , Nikolova Maria
Published: March 2023

Immune memory to SARS-CoV-2 is key for establishing herd immunity and limiting the spread of the virus. The duration and qualities of T-cell-mediated protection in the settings of constantly evolving pathogens remain an open question. We conducted a cross-sectional study of SARS-CoV-2-specific CD4+ and CD8+ T-cell responses at several time points over 18 months (30–750 days) post mild/moderate infection with the aim to identify suitable methods and biomarkers for evaluation of long-term T-cell memory in peripheral blood. Included were 107 samples from 95 donors infected during the periods 03/2020–07/2021 and 09/2021–03/2022, coinciding with the prevalence of B.1.1.7 (alpha) and B.1.617.2 (delta) variants in Bulgaria. SARS-CoV-2-specific IFNγ+ T cells were measured in ELISpot in parallel with flow cytometry detection of AIM+ total and stem cell-like memory (TSCM) CD4+ and CD8+ T cells after in vitro stimulation with peptide pools corresponding to the original and delta variants. We show that, unlike IFNγ+ T cells, AIM+ virus-specific CD4+ and CD8+ TSCM are more adequate markers of T cell memory, even beyond 18 months post-infection. In the settings of circulating and evolving viruses, CD8+ TSCM is remarkably stable, back-differentiated into effectors, and delivers immediate protection, regardless of the initial priming strain.