bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An interpretable model predicts visual outcomes of no light perception eyes after open globe injury
Authors: Meng Xiangda , Wang Qihua , Chen Song , Zhang Shijie , Yu Jinguo , Li Haibo , Chen Xinkang , Wang Zhaoyang , Yu Wenzhen , Zheng Zhi , Zhou Heding , Luo Jing , Wang Zhiliang , Chen Haoyu , Wu Nan , Hu Dan , Chen Suihua , Wei Yong , Cui Haibin , Song Huping , Chen Huijin , Wang Yun , Zhong Jie , Chen Zhen , Zhang Haokun , Yang Tiantian , Li Mengxuan , Liu Yuanyuan , Dong Xue , Du Mei , Wang Xiaohong , Yao Xuyang , Lin Haotian , Li Mulin Jun , Yan Hua
Published: January 2023

Background

The visual outcome of open globe injury (OGI)-no light perception (NLP) eyes is unpredictable traditionally. This study aimed to develop a model to predict the visual outcomes of vitrectomy surgery in OGI-NLP eyes using a machine learning algorithm and to provide an interpretable system for the prediction results.

Methods

Clinical data of 459 OGI-NLP eyes were retrospectively collected from 19 medical centres across China to establish a training data set for developing a model, called ‘VisionGo’, which can predict the visual outcome of the patients involved and compare with the Ocular Trauma Score (OTS). Another 72 cases were retrospectively collected and used for human–machine comparison, and an additional 27 cases were prospectively collected for real-world validation of the model. The SHapley Additive exPlanations method was applied to analyse feature contribution to the model. An online platform was built for real-world application.

Results

The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of VisionGo was 0.75 and 0.90 in previtrectomy and intravitrectomy application scenarios, which was much higher than the OTS (AUC=0.49). VisionGo showed better performance than ophthalmologists in both previtrectomy and intravitrectomy application scenarios (AUC=0.73 vs 0.57 and 0.87 vs 0.64). In real-world validation, VisionGo achieved an AUC of 0.60 and 0.91 in previtrectomy and intravitrectomy application scenarios. Feature contribution analysis indicated that wound length-related indicators, vitreous status and retina-related indicators contributed highly to visual outcomes.

Conclusions

VisionGo has achieved an accurate and reliable prediction in visual outcome after vitrectomy for OGI-NLP eyes.
Experiences of group-based cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia among patients with rheumatoid arthritis: a qualitative study
Authors: Latocha Kristine Marie , Løppenthin Katrine , Jennum Poul , Christensen Robin , Østergaard Mikkel , Esbensen Bente Appel
Published: January 2023

Objective

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease, with a prevalence of insomnia disorders in up to 70%. Patients’ experiences of participating in group-based cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) are sparsely explored, and CBT-I has not been evaluated in patients with RA until now. Therefore, the aim was to explore patients’ experiences of CBT-I and how the components of CBT-I were incorporated in sleep management.

Design

We conducted a qualitative study with semi-structured interviews. The interview guide was developed based on CBT-I, with questions that explicitly explored the participants’ experiences of sleep education and the behavioural components of CBT-I.

Setting

Interviews were conducted one-to-one at Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Copenhagen.

Participants

Patients with RA who had received CBT-I as intervention in a randomised controlled trial (N=11). The analysis was based on a reflexive thematic method.

Results

Five themes were identified (1)When knowledge contributes to an altered perception of sleep, referring to the reduced misperception and increased motivation that followed sleep education, (2)Overcoming habits and perceptions to accelerate sleep onset, referring to barriers related to sleep behaviour and how stimulus control enabled them to find meaningful behaviour, (3)The sleep window of challenges in learning how to sleep rightreferring to that payoff from sleep restriction did not come easily or by magic, and commitment gave them confidence to continue, (4)Relaxation becomes a behavioural habit and goes beyond sleep, referring to a means to achieve a relaxed body and mind and how they thereby coped better with RA-related symptoms and (5)Break the cycle and regain controlreferring to how trust in one’s own accomplishment was crucial to reducing worrying.

Conclusion

The process towards eliminating insomnia was a bodily experience and involved a changed mindset that resulted in an alteration of behaviour and cognitions.
Multimodal prehabilitation for major surgery in elderly patients to lower complications: protocol of a randomised, prospective, multicentre, multidisciplinary trial (PREHABIL Trial)
Authors: Beilstein Christian M , Krutkyte Gabija , Vetsch Thomas , Eser Prisca , Wilhelm Matthias , Stanga Zeno , Bally Lia , Verra Martin , Huber Markus , Wuethrich Patrick Y , Engel Dominique
Published: January 2023

Introduction

The global volume of surgery is growing and the population ageing, and economic pressure is rising. Major surgery is associated with relevant morbidity and mortality. Postoperative reduction in physiological and functional capacity is especially marked in the elderly, multimorbid patient with low fitness level, sarcopenia and malnutrition. Interventions aiming to optimise the patient prior to surgery (prehabilitation) may reduce postoperative complications and consequently reduce health costs.

Methods and analysis

This is a multicentre, multidisciplinary, prospective, 2-arm parallel-group, randomised, controlled trial with blinded outcome assessment. Primary outcome is the Comprehensive Complications Index at 30 days. Within 3 years, we aim to include 2×233 patients with a proven fitness deficit undergoing major surgery to be randomised using a computer-generated random numbers and a minimisation technique. The study intervention consists of a structured, multimodal, multidisciplinary prehabilitation programme over 2–4 weeks addressing deficits in physical fitness and nutrition, diabetes control, correction of anaemia and smoking cessation versus standard of care.

Ethics and dissemination

The PREHABIL trial has been approved by the responsible ethics committee (Kantonale Ethikkomission Bern, project ID 2020-01690). All participants provide written informed consent prior to participation. Participant recruitment began in February 2022 (10 and 8 patients analysed at time of submission), with anticipated completion in 2025. Publication of the results in peer-reviewed scientific journals are expected in late 2025.

Trial registration number

NCT04461301.
Young athlete’s growing heart: sex differences in cardiac adaptation to exercise training during adolescence
Authors: Forså Marianne Inngjerdingen , Bjerring Anders W , Haugaa Kristina H , Smedsrud Marit Kristine , Sarvari Sebastian I , Landgraff Hege W , Hallén Jostein , Edvardsen Thor
Published: January 2023

Background

Athlete’s heart is a condition of exercise-induced cardiac remodelling. Adult male endurance athletes more often remodel beyond reference values. The impact of sex on remodelling through adolescence remains unclear. Paediatric reference values do not account for patient sex or exercise history. We aimed to study the effect of sex on cardiac remodelling throughout adolescence.

Methods

We recruited 76 male (M) and female (F) 12-year-old cross-country skiers in a longitudinal cohort study. Echocardiography was performed and analysed according to guidelines at age 12 (48 M, 28 F), 15 (34 M, 14 F) and 18 (23 M, 11 F). Repeated echocardiographic measurements were analysed by linear mixed model regression.

Results

Males displayed greater indexed left ventricular end-diastolic volumes (LV EDVi) from age 12 (M 81±7 vs F 76±7, mL/m², p≤0.01), and progressed further until follow-up at age 18 (M 2.3±9.7 vs F −3.9±4.5 ΔmL/m², p≤0.01). LV EDVi remained above adult upper reference values in both groups. Males increased LV Mass Index from age 12 to 18 (M 33±27 vs F 4±19, Δg/m², p≤0.01). Males displayed LV mass above paediatric reference values at ages 15 and 18. A subset of males (35%) and females (25%) displayed wall thickness above paediatric reference values at age 12. Cardiac function was normal. There was no sex difference in exercise hours.

Conclusion

Sex-related differences in athlete’s heart were evident from age 12, and progressed throughout adolescence. Remodelling beyond reference values was more frequent than previously reported, particularly affecting males. Age, sex and exercise history may assist clinicians in distinguishing exercise-induced remodelling from pathology in adolescents.
Deep learning-based prediction of future myocardial infarction using invasive coronary angiography: a feasibility study
Authors: Mahendiran Thabo , Thanou Dorina , Senouf Ortal , Meier David , Dayer Nicolas , Aminfar Fahrang , Auberson Denise , Raita Omar , Frossard Pascal , Pagnoni Mattia , Cook Stéphane , De Bruyne Bernard , Muller Olivier , Abbé Emmanuel , Fournier Stephane
Published: January 2023

Background

Angiographic parameters can facilitate the risk stratification of coronary lesions but remain insufficient in the prediction of future myocardial infarction (MI).

AIMS

We compared the ability of humans, angiographic parameters and deep learning (DL) to predict the lesion that would be responsible for a future MI in a population of patients with non-significant CAD at baseline.

Methods

We retrospectively included patients who underwent invasive coronary angiography (ICA) for MI, in whom a previous angiogram had been performed within 5 years. The ability of human visual assessment, diameter stenosis, area stenosis, quantitative flow ratio (QFR) and DL to predict the future culprit lesion (FCL) was compared.

Results

In total, 746 cropped ICA images of FCL and non-culprit lesions (NCL) were analysed. Predictive models for each modality were developed in a training set before validation in a test set. DL exhibited the best predictive performance with an area under the curve of 0.81, compared with diameter stenosis (0.62, p=0.04), area stenosis (0.58, p=0.05) and QFR (0.67, p=0.13). DL exhibited a significant net reclassification improvement (NRI) compared with area stenosis (0.75, p=0.03) and QFR (0.95, p=0.01), and a positive nonsignificant NRI when compared with diameter stenosis. Among all models, DL demonstrated the highest accuracy (0.78) followed by QFR (0.70) and area stenosis (0.68). Predictions based on human visual assessment and diameter stenosis had the lowest accuracy (0.58).

Conclusion

In this feasibility study, DL outperformed human visual assessment and established angiographic parameters in the prediction of FCLs. Larger studies are now required to confirm this finding.
Non-pharmacological interventions to promote work participation in people with rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases: a systematic review and meta-analysis from the EULAR taskforce on healthy and sustainable work participation
Authors: Butink Maarten H P , Webers Casper , Verstappen Suzanne M M , Falzon Louise , Betteridge Neil , Wiek Dieter , Woolf Anthony D , Stamm Tanja A , Burmester Gerd R , Bijlsma Johannes W J , Christensen Robin , Boonen Annelies
Published: January 2023

Objective

To summarise the evidence on effectiveness of non-pharmacological (ie, non-drug, non-surgical) interventions on work participation (sick leave, work status and presenteeism) in people with rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs).

Methods

A systematic review of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and longitudinal observational studies (LOS) was performed. Qualitative (RCTs/LOS) and quantitative (RCTs) evidence syntheses were conducted. Mixed-effects restricted maximum likelihood models were used to combine effect estimates, using standardised mean differences (SMDs) as the summary measure for each outcome domain separately, with a negative SMD favouring the intervention over comparator. Subgroup analyses were performed for type of RMD, risk status at baseline regarding adverse work outcomes and intervention characteristics.

Results

Of 10 153 records, 64 studies (37 RCTs and 27 LOS; corresponding tok=71 treatment comparisons) were included. Interventions were mostly conducted in clinical settings (44 of 71, 62%). Qualitative synthesis suggested clear beneficial effects of 7 of 64 (11%) interventions for sick leave, 1 of 18 (6%) for work status and 1 of 17 (6%) for presenteeism. Quantitative synthesis (37 RCTs;k=43 treatment comparisons) suggested statistically significant but only small clinical effects on each outcome (SMDsick leave(95% CI)=−0.23 (−0.33 to −0.13;k=42); SMDwork status=−0.38 (−0.63 to −0.12;k=9); SMDpresenteeism=−0.25 (−0.39 to −0.12;k=13)).

Conclusion

In people with RMDs, empirical evidence shows that non-pharmacological interventions have small effects on work participation. Effectiveness depends on contextual factors such as disease, population risk status, intervention characteristics and outcome of interest, highlighting the importance of tailoring interventions.
Trends in smokeless tobacco use and attributable mortality and morbidity in the South-East Asia Region: implications for policy
Authors: Kaur Jagdish , Rinkoo Arvind Vashishta , Richardson Sol
Published: January 2023

Objectives

To describe the prevalence of smokeless tobacco (SLT) use and number of users by year, in addition to trends in mortality and attributable disease burden in countries of the WHO South-East Asia Region (SEAR), to inform policies for SLT control in the Region.

Methods

For each SEAR country, we obtained data from Global Adult Tobacco Surveys, WHO STEPwise Approach to NCD Risk Factor Surveillance surveys and Demographic and Health Surveys conducted since 2010 to estimate prevalence of SLT use by country, sex and year. Using data from the World Population Prospects database we estimated the number of users by country. Next, using the results of previous meta-analyses and prevalence results, we estimated the population attributable fractions and attributable mortality and morbidity in terms of annual deaths and disability-adjusted life years lost. We then characterised trends in attributable deaths and disease burden for countries with comparable data.

Results

There were wide differences in SLT use prevalence by country. We estimated that, during 2015–2019, there were 165 803 900 SLT users across SEAR, with 479 466 attributable deaths annually of which India accounted for 79.9% with 383 248. Attributable annual deaths increased in some countries during 2015–2019.

Conclusions

Annual deaths and disease burden attributable to SLT remain high across SEAR and have only declined modestly in recent years. Effective implementation of all WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control measures, addressing both supply-side and demand-side issues, in relation to SLT and areca nut products must be prioritised to ensure reductions in mortality and disease burden are sustained and accelerated.
Longitudinal follow-up of postacute COVID-19 syndrome: DLCO, quality-of-life and MRI pulmonary gas-exchange abnormalities
Authors: Matheson Alexander M , McIntosh Marrissa J , Kooner Harkiran K , Abdelrazek Mohamed , Albert Mitchell S , Dhaliwal Inderdeep , Nicholson J Michael , Ouriadov Alexei , Svenningsen Sarah , Parraga Grace
Published: January 2023

129Xe MRI red blood cell to alveolar tissue plasma ratio (RBC:TP) abnormalities have been observed in ever-hospitalised and never-hospitalised people with postacute COVID-19 syndrome (PACS). But, it is not known if such abnormalities resolve when symptoms and quality-of-life scores improve. We evaluated 21 participants with PACS, 7±4 months (baseline) and 14±4 months (follow-up) postinfection. Significantly improved diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide (DLCO, Δ=14%pred;95%CI 7 to 21, p<0.001), postexertional dyspnoea (Δ=−0.7; 95%CI=−0.2 to –1.2, p=0.019), St George’s Respiratory Questionnaire-score (SGRQ Δ=−6; 95% CI=−1 to –11, p=0.044) but not RBC:TP (Δ=0.03; 95% CI=0.01 to 0.05, p=0.051) were observed at 14 months. DLCOcorrelated with RBC:TP (r=0.60, 95% CI=0.22 to 0.82, p=0.004) at 7 months. While DLCOand SGRQ measurements improved, these values did not normalise 14 months post-infection. ClinicalTrials.govNCT04584671.
Compact Convolutional Neural Network with Multi-Headed Attention Mechanism for Seizure Prediction
Authors: Ding Xin , Nie Weiwei , Liu Xinyu , Wang Xiuying , Yuan Qi
Published: January 2023

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder related to frequent seizures. Automatic seizure prediction is crucial for the prevention and treatment of epilepsy. In this paper, we propose a novel model for seizure prediction that incorporates a convolutional neural network (CNN) with multi-head attention mechanism. In this model, the shallow CNN automatically captures the EEG features, and the multi-headed attention focuses on discriminating the effective information among these features for identifying pre-ictal EEG segments. Compared with current CNN models for seizure prediction, the embedded multi-headed attention empowers the shallow CNN to be more flexible, and enables improvement of the training efficiency. Hence, this compact model is more resistant to being trapped in overfitting. The proposed method was evaluated over the scalp EEG data from the two publicly available epileptic EEG databases, and achieved outperforming values of event-level sensitivity, false prediction rate (FPR), and epoch-level F1. Furthermore, our method achieved the stable length of seizure prediction time that was between 14 and 15 min. The experimental comparisons showed that our method outperformed other prediction methods in terms of prediction and generalization performance.
A unified framework for Navier–Stokes Cahn–Hilliard models with non-matching densities
Authors: ten Eikelder M. F. P. , van der Zee K. G. , Akkerman I. , Schillinger D.
Published: January 2023

Over the last decades, many diffuse-interface Navier–Stokes Cahn–Hilliard (NSCH) models with non-matching densities have appeared in the literature. These models claim to describe the same physical phenomena, yet they are distinct from one another. The overarching objective of this work is to bring all of these models together by laying down a unified framework of NSCH models with non-zero mass fluxes. Our development is based on three unifying principles: (1) there is only one system of balance laws based on continuum mixture theory that describes the physical model, (2) there is only one natural energy-dissipation law that leads to quasi-incompressible NSCH models, (3) variations between the models only appear in the constitutive choices. The framework presented in this work now completes the fundamental exploration of alternate non-matching density NSCH models that utilize a single momentum equation for the mixture velocity, but leaves open room for further sophistication in the energy functional and constitutive dependence.
Modeling transit dark energy in f(R,Lm)-gravity
Authors: Pradhan Anirudh , Maurya Dinesh Chandra , Goswami Gopikant K. , Beesham Aroonkumar
Published: January 2023

This research paper deals with a transit dark energy cosmological model in [Formula: see text]-gravity with observational constraints. For this, we consider a flat Friedman–Lamatre–Robertson–Walker (FLRW) space-time and have taken a cosmological constant-like parameter [Formula: see text] in our field equations. The model has two energy parameters [Formula: see text], which govern the mechanism of the universe, in particular its present accelerated phase. To make the model cope with the present observational scenario, we consider three types of observational data set: [Formula: see text] Hubble parameter data set, SNe Ia [Formula: see text] data sets of distance modulus and apparent magnitude, and [Formula: see text] datasets of SNe Ia bined compilation in the redshift [Formula: see text]. We have approximated the present values of the energy parameters by applying [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]-test in the observational and theoretical values of Hubble, distance modulus and apparent magnitude parameters. Also, we have measured the approximate present values of cosmographic coefficients [Formula: see text]. It is found that our approximated value-based model fits best with the observational module. We have found that as [Formula: see text] (or [Formula: see text]) then [Formula: see text]. The cosmic age of the present universe is also approximated and comes up to the expectation. Our model shows a transit phase of the present accelerating universe with a deceleration in the past and has a transition point.
Numerical and Experimental Study of Elastohydrodynamic Grease Lubrication of Surfaces with Longitudinal and Transverse Pattern
Authors: Torabi Amir , Abdollahi Farshid
Published: January 2023

The interaction of non-Newtonian grease with patterned surfaces was considered as a promising approach to find an effective method for reducing friction and wear in rolling contacts. Longitudinal and transverse patterns can retain the lubricant in the contact area and prevent it from escaping under high loads. In this paper, a model has been developed for grease elastohydrodynamic lubrication of surfaces with different patterns to estimate the lubrication parameters such as lubricant film thickness, pressure distribution, and viscous friction. Then several experimental tests are rolled out for different loads, velocities, and surface patterns. Because the friction model estimates only viscous friction, a correlation is recommended for considering the friction due to asperity interaction. This relation is based on average lubricant film thickness results which are calculated from the model. The calculated friction and experimental results have a good agreement. According to the experimental tests, transverse, longitudinal, and isotropic pattern had a lower friction coefficient, respectively. While the isotropic viscous friction coefficient estimated by the model is lower than others. Higher loads and lower velocities cause a higher friction coefficient in all surface patterns.
SOFFLFM: Super-resolution optical fluctuation Fourier light-field microscopy
Authors: Huang Haixin , Qiu Haoyuan , Wu Hanzhe , Ji Yihong , Li Heng , Yu Bin , Chen Danni , Qu Junle
Published: January 2023

Fourier light-field microscopy (FLFM) uses a microlens array (MLA) to segment the Fourier plane of the microscopic objective lens to generate multiple two-dimensional perspective views, thereby reconstructing the three-dimensional (3D) structure of the sample using 3D deconvolution calculation without scanning. However, the resolution of FLFM is still limited by diffraction, and furthermore, it is dependent on the aperture division. In order to improve its resolution, a super-resolution optical fluctuation Fourier light-field microscopy (SOFFLFM) was proposed here, in which the super-resolution optical fluctuation imaging (SOFI) with the ability of super-resolution was introduced into FLFM. SOFFLFM uses higher-order cumulants statistical analysis on an image sequence collected by FLFM, and then carries out 3D deconvolution calculation to reconstruct the 3D structure of the sample. The theoretical basis of SOFFLFM on improving resolution was explained and then verified with the simulations. Simulation results demonstrated that SOFFLFM improved the lateral and axial resolution by more than [Formula: see text] and 2 times in the second- and fourth-order accumulations, compared with that of FLFM.
Maker-Breaker metric resolving games on graphs
Authors: Kang Cong X. , Yi Eunjeong
Published: January 2023

Let [Formula: see text] denote the length of a shortest path between vertices [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] in a graph [Formula: see text] with vertex set [Formula: see text]. For a positive integer [Formula: see text], let [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. A set [Formula: see text] is a distance-k resolving set of [Formula: see text] if [Formula: see text] for distinct [Formula: see text]. In this paper, we study the maker-breaker distance-[Formula: see text] resolving game (MB[Formula: see text]RG) played on a graph [Formula: see text] by two players, Maker and Breaker, who alternately select a vertex of [Formula: see text] not yet chosen. Maker wins by selecting vertices which form a distance-[Formula: see text] resolving set of [Formula: see text], whereas Breaker wins by preventing Maker from winning. We denote by [Formula: see text] the outcome of MB[Formula: see text]RG. Let [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], respectively, denote the outcome for which Maker, Breaker, and the first player has a winning strategy in MB[Formula: see text]RG. Given a graph [Formula: see text], the parameter [Formula: see text] is a non-decreasing function of [Formula: see text] with codomain [Formula: see text]. We exhibit pairs [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] such that the ordered pair [Formula: see text] realizes each member of the set [Formula: see text]; we provide graphs [Formula: see text] such that [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] for [Formula: see text]. Moreover, we obtain some general results on MB[Formula: see text]RG and study the MB[Formula: see text]RG played on some graph classes.
Strong 2-degenerate graph embeddings
Authors: Ying Peng , Zhang Xia
Published: January 2023

A result of Friedman and Pippenger gives a sufficient condition on the expansion properties of a graph to contain all small trees with bounded maximum degree. In this paper, we extend the tree embedding problem of expanding graphs to the degenerate graph embedding problem, and give a sufficient condition for a graph to contain strong [Formula: see text]-degenerate subgraphs with bounded maximum codegree.
Two-level Approach for Heterogeneous Multi-Robot Optimal Navigation
Authors: Boudjellel Mohamed El Amine , Guiatni Mohamed
Published: January 2023

This paper proposes a two-level optimization approach for a multi-robot navigation problem. Our aim is to achieve tasks with optimal strategies, optimal trajectory planning and to give better and feasible solutions. Optimal alternatives are selected by combining game theory strategic decision with an optimal trajectory planning method. This is solved at the top level by applying Sequential Quadratic Programming (SQP). At the bottom, Pure Nash equilibrium is solved using the Simulated Annealing (SA) algorithm. The trajectory planning for the multi-robot system is performed by decomposition where the b-spline technique is initially used to describe the robots path in an environment with obstacles. The cubic spline technique is then introduced to set up the motion along the desired path. The kinematic and dynamic constraints inherent to the robot behavior are taken into account and collision constraints are handled by penalization. The proposed approach is applied to heterogeneous Unicycle Wheeled Mobile Robots and simulated in endowed obstacles environment. Optimal collision-free trajectories of the robot team are obtained with smooth line paths and good-quality solutions. Simulation results are given to show the effectiveness and robustness of proposed algorithm.
A Review of Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Technology Adoption for Precision Agriculture in Malaysia
Authors: Norhashim N. , Kamal N. L. Mohd , Shah S. Ahmad , Sahwee Z. , Ruzani A. I. Ahmad
Published: January 2023

Agriculture catalyzes the economy in developing nations. Malaysian agriculture constitutes 4.06 million hectares, with 80% encompassing industrial crops and agro-food production, boosting the economy through implementing precision agriculture (PA). Precision agriculture gives minimal environmental implications by using an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), improving sustainability, productivity, and crop production 30-fold instead of conventional methods. This study aims to review the UAV application based on technical requirements with insights into the potentiality of precision agriculture in UAV agriculture technologies, limitations, and solutions.
Summarizing User-item Matrix By Group Utility Maximization
Authors: Wang Yongjie , Wang Ke , Long Cheng , Miao Chunyan
Published: January 2023

A user-item utility matrix represents the utility (or preference) associated with each (user, item) pair, such as citation counts, rating/vote on items or locations, and clicks on items. A high utility value indicates a strong association of the pair. In this work, we consider the problem of summarizing strong association for a large user-item matrix using a small summary size. Traditional techniques fail to distinguish user groups associated with different items (such as top-
l
item selection) or fail to focus on high utility (such as similarity- based subspace clustering and biclustering). We formulate a new problem, called Group Utility Maximization (GUM), to summarize the entire user population through
k
user groups and
l
items for each group; the goal is to maximize the total utility of selected items over all groups collectively. We show this problem is NP-hard even for
l
=1. We present two algorithms. One greedily finds the next group, called Greedy algorithm, and the other iteratively refines existing
k
groups, called
k
-max algorithm. Greedy algorithm provides the

\((1-\frac{1}{e})\)

approximation guarantee for a nonnegative utility matrix, whereas
k
-max algorithm is more efficient for large datasets. We evaluate these algorithms on real-life datasets.
SecureTVM: A TVM-based Compiler Framework for Selective Privacy-preserving Neural Inference
Authors: Huang Po-Hsuan , Tu Chia-Heng , Chung Shen-Ming , Wu Pei-Yuan , Tsai Tung-Lin , Lin Yi-An , Dai Chun-Yi , Liao Tzu-Yi
Published: January 2023

Privacy-preserving neural inference helps protect both the user input data and the model weights from being leaked to others during the inference of a deep learning model. To achieve data protection, the inference is often performed within a secure domain, and the final result is revealed in plaintext. Nevertheless, performing the computations in the secure domain incurs about a thousandfold overhead compared with the insecure version, especially when the involved operations of the entire model are mapped to the secure domain, which is the computation scheme adopted by the existing works. This work is inspired by the transfer learning technique, where the weights of some parts of the model layers are transferred from a publicly available, pre-built deep learning model, and it opens a door to further boost the execution efficiency by allowing us to do the secure computations selectively on parts of the transferred model. We have built a compiler framework, SecureTVM, to automatically translate a trained model into the secure version, where the model layers to be protected can be selectively configured by its model provider. As a result, SecureTVM outperforms the state of the art, CrypTFlow2, by a factor of 55 for the transfer learning model. We believe that this work takes a step forward toward the practical uses of privacy-preserving neural inference for real-world applications.
An Environmentally Friendly and Cost-Effective Route to LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 Crystals: Structure, Morphology Evolution, and Electrochemical Properties
Authors: Zhao Zixing , Fang Haisheng
Published: January 2023

A green and economical process based on the room-temperature solid-state reactions is developed to synthesize LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4, and the effects of sintering temperature and lithium excess on the structure, morphology and performance are investigated in detail. The measurements reveal that the performance of the LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 is highly dependent on the crystal morphology and integrity which are significantly influenced by the sintering temperature, and the results demonstrate that well-crystallized octahedral-like crystals with superior electrochemical performance can be readily synthesized by the new developed route at a moderate sintering temperature of 800 °C with a small lithium excess of 3%.
Growth of Ultrathin Well-Defined and Crystalline Films of Co3O4 and CoOOH by Electrodeposition
Authors: Pacheco I. , Bouvier M. , Magnussen O. M. , Allongue P. , Maroun F.
Published: January 2023

Cobalt oxides are among the best noble metal free catalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction in alkaline electrolyte. To elucidate the origin of their catalytic properties, crystalline films with well-defined orientation and surface quality are needed. In this work, we study the growth of ultrathin crystalline films of cobalt oxides layers on Au(111). The films are grown by electrodeposition at reflux temperature in cobalt nitrate alkaline solutions in the presence of tartrate. The film structure and morphology is studied by X-ray diffraction, atomic force microscopy and scanning electron microscopy, as a function of the deposition parameters (solution composition, potential). Single phase Co3O4(111) and CoOOH(001) films in epitaxy with the Au(111) substrate could be obtained by choosing the conditions of deposition. The CoOOH films present a smooth morphology with several 100 nm wide pyramidal islands with stepped facets. The morphology of Co3O4 films consists of three-dimensional densely packed triangular islands with flat tops. Finally, we investigate the influence of the substrate on the morphology of Co3O4 films by depositing them on Au(100) and a CoOOH buffer layer. The nucleation and growth modes as well as the reaction mechanisms are discussed.
Methods—On the Application of Ambient Scanning Kelvin Probe Force Microscopy to Understand Micro-Galvanic Corrosion Phenomena: Interpretation and Challenges
Authors: Revilla Reynier I.
Published: January 2023

The capabilities of scanning Kelvin probe force microscopy (SKPFM) to directly measure local Volta potential differences with relatively high spatial resolution, has made it a very popular technique to assess the relative nobility of intermetallic phases and therefore to understand corrosion susceptibility and microgalvanic corrosion activity in several alloys. However, the direct correlation between galvanic corrosion activity and Volta potential differences measured in air is not straightforward. Several factors, which can easily go unnoticed, can directly affect the potential values measured by SKPFM, hence compromising their validity and relevance in explaining certain galvanic corrosion activities. Several recent studies presenting conflicting/varied results or failing to properly interpret/discuss the obtained data can be found. This work discusses specific factors that can compromise the validity of SKPFM measurements and/or the understanding acquired from them. It presents a discussion on the SKPFM working principle, the basics of galvanic corrosion, and the relevant terminology around these topics, emphasising the possible correlations between them, with the intention of increasing comprehension of SKPFM-based micro-galvanic corrosion studies. A summary of best recommended practices is presented, aiming at standardizing the use of the SKPFM technique and the representation of the data, and to ensure consistency of the results.
Moxifloxacin Metal Complexes: Synthesis, Characterisation, Antimicrobial and Antidiabetic Activities with Docking Studies
Authors: Ali Sajjad , Zheng Huaiji , Zaidi Asma , Ahmed Khan Farhan , Majid Bukhari Syed , Riaz Muhammad , Mumtaz Khan Muhammad , Sammi Shehla , u-llah Inham , Amin Ammad , Jahangir Muhammad
Published: January 2023

Six new metal complexes of Fe(III), Cu(II), and Hg(II) were synthesised, i.e., three (2, 4, and 5) with moxifloxacin (mono-ligand) and the other three (1, 3 and 6) with moxifloxacin and hydrazine (biligand). These were characterised through UV-Vis, FT-IR, elemental analysis (CHN), atomic absorption spectroscopy, TGA, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and powder XRD studies. Further, all of these compounds were screened for their antimicrobial, cytotoxic, and antidiabetic potential. The study revealed that the synthesised metal complexes possess an excellent ability to become antifungal agents compared to moxifloxacin. Additionally, the cytotoxicity of compounds 1, 3, and 4 was in the acceptable range with much better antidiabetic potential as compared to the ligand moxifloxacin. Interestingly, the α-amylase inhibition activity of complexes 1 and 3 was found very close to the standard drug acarbose. Furthermore, the computational studies also authenticate the results of the antidiabetic potential of complexes 1, 3, and 4 by presenting the necessary interactions of these compounds with their respective binding sites. The overall results indicate that the antifungal and antidiabetic ability of moxifloxacin is enhanced significantly by complexation with the given metals and the secondary ligand, thereby making it a suitable lead compound for yet another avenue of an antifungal and antidiabetic agent in the field of drug discovery and development.
Simulation Study of New Buckling Restraint Bracing Based on Bayesian Optimization Algorithm to Identify the Parameters of Modified Bouc–Wen Model
Authors: Zhao Lu , Tu Tiangang , Ding Sunwei , Liu Xinqiao
Published: January 2023

The introduction of new materials can significantly improve the performance of existing dampers, but the constitutive model of new materials is difficult to be obtained in a short time, which makes its numerical simulation difficult. Bouc–Wen–Baber–Noori (BWBN) model can well describe the stress-strain relationship of materials, and it is helpful to introduce new materials into numerical simulation. In this paper, a new high manganese steel material is used to fabricate buckling restrained brace, and based on the improved Transition Markov Chain Monte Carlo (iTMCMC) sampling method and Bayesian reasoning, a new parameter identification of BWBN model is completed; model parameters are introduced into OpenSees to complete the response analysis of the new steel damper in the structure. It provides a new method and approach for introducing new materials into structural seismic resistance and proves its reliability.
The Influence of Fly Ash Contents on Mechanical Properties and Energy Response of Concrete at a High Strain Rate
Authors: Yi Enbing
Published: January 2023

The dynamic uniaxial impact compression test was carried out by the Hopkinson pressure bar test system to test the dynamic mechanical properties of concrete with different fly ash contents (

P
=
0

, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, and 50%) under 0.3 MPa air pressure. The influences of fly ash content variation on the mechanical characteristics, ductility characteristics (which were calculated according to the concrete ductility formula), energy dissipation characteristics, and surface specific energy variation characteristics (which were calculated by converting the fragments into spheres) of concrete were analyzed, respectively, and the influences of fly ash content variation on the fragment distribution and fractal features of concrete were obtained by statistical analysis. In addition, the application of concrete with the change of fly ash contents in rock burst mine was studied. The results showed that the dynamic peak stress, residual stress, ductility characteristics, fragments distribution, fractal dimension, transmitted energy, dissipated energy, and surface specific energy change significantly with the increase of fly ash contents under dynamic uniaxial impact compression. By analyzing the relationship between surface specific energy and concrete fragment distribution, it could be found that the energy dissipated by stress waves in concrete can be estimated by using the particle size distribution of the field fragments.
The Impact of Polyethylene Glycol-Modified Chitosan Scaffolds on the Proliferation and Differentiation of Osteoblasts
Authors: Tsai Wei-Bor , Ahmed Ibrahim Nasser
Published: January 2023

The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of polyethylene glycol (PEG) incorporated chitosan scaffolds on osteoblasts proliferation and differentiation. The chitosan polymer was initially modified by the predetermined concentration of the photoreactive azido group for UV-crosslinking and with RGD peptides (N-acetyl-GRGDSPGYG-amide). The PEG was mixed at different ratios (0, 10, and 20 wt%) with modified chitosan in 96-well tissue culture polystyrene plates to prepare CHI-100, CHI-90, and CHI-80 scaffolds. PEG-containing scaffolds exhibited bigger pore size and higher water content compared to unmodified chitosan scaffolds. After 10 days of incubation, the cell number of CHI-90 (1.1 × 106 cells/scaffold) surpasses that of CHI-100 (9.2 × 105 cells/scaffold) and the cell number of CHI-80 (7.6 × 105 cells/scaffold) were significantly lower. The ALP activity of CHI-90 was the highest on the fifth day indicating the favored osteoblasts' early-stage differentiation. Moreover, after 14 days of osteogenic culture, calcium deposition in the CHI-90 scaffolds (2.7 μmol Ca/scaffold) was significantly higher than the control (2.2 μmol Ca/scaffold) whereas on CHI-80 was 1.9 μmol/scaffold. The results demonstrate that PEG-incorporated chitosan scaffolds favored osteoblasts proliferation and differentiation; however, mixing relatively excess PEG (≥20% wt.) had a negative impact on osteoblasts proliferation and differentiation.
Qinggan Huoxue Recipe Protects against Experimental Alcoholic Liver Fibrosis through CXCL16 Inhibition
Authors: Tang Ling , Yu Xiao , Zou Lu , Li Shaobin , Cheng Yanqi , Wu Yuqin , Xing Lianjun , Fang Hong
Published: January 2023

Background. Qinggan Huoxue recipe (QGHXR), a traditional Chinese medicinal formula, has a protective effect against liver fibrosis. However, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Objective. This study investigated the antifibrotic role of QGHXR and its underlying mechanisms. Methods. The composition of QGHXR was determined using ultra performance liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC‐MS/MS). Female C57BL/6J mice were fed either a Lieber–DeCarli liquid diet or pair‐fed control diet and intraperitoneally injected with CCl4 for 8 weeks (n = 8). In week 5, the mice were administered 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg QGHXR via oral gavage daily for 4 weeks. Results. UPLC‐MS result showed that QGHXR contained 45 compounds including salvianolic acid A, scutellarin, baicalin, rutin, and chai saponin D. QGHXR alleviated pathological alterations in the liver. The alanine aminotransferase (ALT) level was reduced to 44.88 ± 4.39 U/L, aspartate aminotransferase (AST) to 76.25 ± 4.17 U/L, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) to 60.75 ± 5.41 U/L, and acetaldehyde to 38.54 ± 1.01 U/L compared with that of the control group (ALT 72.38 ± 5.19 U/L, AST 119.63 ± 9.82 U/L, and ALP 98.63 ± 6.71 U/L and acetaldehyde 64.86 ± 4.70 U/L). QGHXR inhibited lipid overproduction and fibrotic gene expression. The serum concentration of chemokine C‐X‐C ligand 16 (CXCL16) was reduced to 62.83 ± 6.80 pg/ml compared with that of the control group (130.91 ± 13.72 pg/mL). QGHXR downregulated CXCL16 mRNA and protein expressions. Pharmacological CXCL16 treatment reversed the QGHXR‐induced protective effects in ethanol plus CCl4 fed mice. QGHXR reduced CXCL16 levels (91.97 ± 5.86 pg/ml) in LPS‐stimulated RAW264.7 cells compared with that of the control group (148.68 ± 8.62 pg/ml) and inhibited toll‐like receptor 4 and nuclear factor‐kappa B phosphorylation. Conclusions. This study demonstrated that QGHXR mitigates experimental alcoholic liver fibrosis by CXCL16 inhibition, and may be considered a potential therapeutic agent for treating liver fibrosis.
Agronomic Potential of Avocado-Seed Biochar in Comparison with Other Locally Available Biochar Types: A First-Hand Report from Ethiopia
Authors: Demissie Hibret , Gedebo Andargachew , Agegnehu Getachew
Published: January 2023

Biochar is a promising option for improving soil fertility and agricultural productivity. The potential of biochar for specific purposes depends on its physical and chemical characteristics. The avocado seed is widely available as a leftover after the fleshy part is used for food and as a byproduct of avocado-oil producing agro-industries in Ethiopia. Its potential as a biochar for an agronomic purpose has not been studied. The objective of this study was to compare the agronomic potential of avocado-seed biochar (ASB) type in comparison to other biochar types produced from locally available feedstocks at two selected pyrolysis temperatures (450 and 550°C). It was identified that on a mass-base, the produced biochar yields were in a range of 29.68 to 47.45%, higher for ASB pyrolyzed at 450°C. The scanned images of the biochar types showed a remarkable surface morphology for bamboo biochar (BB) and ASB. The bulk density of the biochars were in the range of 0.21 to 0.49 g/mL. The highest volatile matter was measured for BB-450°C, fixed carbon for BB-550°C, and ash content for BB-450°C. The mean pH values were in the range of 9.1 to 11.3. The ASB-450 and 550°C exhibited higher nutrient content. The highest cation exchange capacity (CEC) was recorded for ASB-450°C; organic carbon (OC) for corncob biochar (CCB) was followed by ASB-450 and 550°C. The calcium carbonate (CaCO3) content of ASB-550°C was the second-highest value next to coffee husk biochar (CHB). In this study, ASB and BB were found to have important qualities for improving degraded agricultural soils in terms of soil acidity, nutrient content, and soil fertility. Therefore, ASB-450°C and BB-450°C can be suggested to be promising candidates for reclaiming acid-soils and for improving nutrient-depleted infertile soils into agriculturally productive soils.
Antiproliferative, Anti-Inflammatory Activities, and Molecular Docking Studies of Secondary Metabolites from Macrosolen tricolor
Authors: Dang Van Son , Le Kieu Hung , Do Thi Hong Tuoi , Nguyen Le Thanh Tuyen , Vu Thi Phuong Lan , Huynh Thi Kim Chi , Hoang Thi Kim Dung , Nguyen Quan Hien , Ngo Trong Nghia , Nguyen Diep Xuan Ky , Phan Nhat Minh , Bui Trong Dat , Mai Dinh Tri , Nguyen Tan Phat
Published: January 2023

In Vietnam, Macrosolen tricolor is used for the treatment of bloating, broken bones, cough, diarrhea, diuretic, rheumatism, and laxative effects. The study aimed to identify the in vitro antiproliferation and anti-inflammation of all fractions and purified compounds from the M. tricolor whole plants, as well as the in silico molecular docking of the potentially cytotoxic compounds. As the results, fractions (MTH.I, MTH.II, MTE.I, and MTE.II) strongly demonstrated antiproliferative properties against three tested cells, MDA-MB-231, RD, and HepG2 (IC50 values ranged from 4.00 ± 0.20 to 70.60 ± 1.44 μg/mL), as well as anti-inflammatory effects (IC50 values ranged from 4.45 ± 0.08 to 23.00 ± 1.18 μg/mL), whereas other fractions meaningfully evidenced selective cytotoxicity and/or anti-inflammation. Therefore, the phytochemical compositions of the active fractions were illuminated, leading to the characterization of eighteen compounds. Compounds (3–5) revealed the most cytotoxic effects towards all examined cells (IC50 values ranged from 6.88 ± 0.12 to 71.64 ± 1.17 μM) and the strongest anti-inflammatory properties (IC50 values of 16.30 ± 0.92, 7.31 ± 0.55, and 9.23 ± 0.60 μM, respectively). Compound 11 showed potential cytotoxicity against MDA-MB-231, RD, and HepG2 cells (IC50 values of 24.42 ± 0.28, 20.60 ± 0.25, and 3.20 ± 0.02 μM, respectively). Furthermore, compounds (4, 5, and 11) interacted with the active site of the apoptosis regulator Bcl-2 protein (PDB ID: 2O2F), were comparable to PAC, and were compatible with their anticancer activity. This project suggests that M. tricolor is a good source of natural antiproliferative and anti-inflammatory agents and contributes to understanding the biological activities of Macrosolen species in traditional Vietnamese medicine.