bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhanced Crowd Dynamics Simulation with Deep Learning and Improved Social Force Model
Authors: Yan Dapeng , Ding Gangyi , Huang Kexiang , Bai Chongzhi , He Lian , Zhang Longfei
Published: February 2024

The traditional social force model (SFM) in crowd simulation experiences difficulty coping with the complexity of the crowd, limited by singular physical formulas and parameters. Recent attempts to combine deep learning with these models focus more on simulating specific states of crowds. This paper introduces an advanced deep social force model, influenced by crowd states. It utilizes deep neural networks to accurately fit crowd trajectory features, enhancing behavior simulation capabilities. Geometrical constraints within the model provide control over varied crowd behaviors, adjustable to simulate different crowd types. Before training, we use the SFM to refine behaviors in real trajectories with excessively small distances, aiming to enhance the general applicability of the model. Comparative experiments affirm the effectiveness of the model, showing comparable performance to both classic physical models and modern learning-based hybrid models in pedestrian simulations, with reduced collisions. In addition, the model has a certain ability to simulate crowds with high density and diverse behaviors.
AGProto: Adaptive Graph ProtoNet towards Sample Adaption for Few-Shot Malware Classification
Authors: Wang Junbo , Lin Tongcan , Wu Huyu , Wang Peng
Published: February 2024

Traditional malware-classification methods reliant on large pre-labeled datasets falter when encountering new or evolving malware types, particularly when only a few samples are available. And most current models utilize a fixed architecture; however, the characteristics of the various types of malware differ significantly. This discrepancy results in notably inferior classification performance for certain categories or samples with uncommon features, but the threats of these malware samples are of equivalent significance. In this paper, we introduce Adaptive Graph ProtoNet (AGProto), a novel approach for classifying malware in the field of Few-Shot Learning. AGProto leverages Graph Neural Networks (GNNs) to propagate sample features and generate multiple prototypes. It employs an attention mechanism to calculate the relevance of each prototype to individual samples, resulting in a customized prototype for each case. Our approach achieved optimal performance on two few-shot malware classification datasets, surpassing other competitive models with an accuracy improvement of over 2%. In extremely challenging scenarios—specifically, 20-class classification tasks with only five samples per class—our method notably excelled, achieving over 70% accuracy, significantly outperforming existing advanced techniques.
Examining Exposure Fires from the United States National Fire Incident Reporting System between 2002 and 2020
Authors: McNamara Derek J. , Mell William E.
Published: February 2024

Fires resulting from antecedent fires, known as exposure fires, can manifest across diverse environments, including suburban, urban, and rural areas. Notably, exposure fires represented by structure-destroying fires within the wildland–urban interface (WUI) can extend into non-WUI suburban and urban regions, presenting significant challenges. Leveraging data from the United States National Fire Incident Reporting System (NFIRS) spanning 2002 to 2020, this study investigates 131,739 exposure fire incidents impacting 348,089 features (incidents). We analyze reported economic costs, affected feature types, and property utilization patterns for these exposure fires. We also compare these exposure fires to information documented in other databases. Finally, we examine structure separation distance at residential dwellings and describe ignition pathways for selected fires. Reported property losses for some fire incidents amounted to USD 5,647,121,172, with content losses totaling USD 1,777,345,793. Prominent fire incident categories include buildings, vehicles, and natural vegetation fires, predominantly occurring in residential, outdoor, and storage areas. While the NFIRS lacked information on most major structure-destroying WUI fires, highlighting this analysis’s lack of statistical representation, it did provide insights into less extensive exposure fires, both WUI and non-WUI, unrecorded elsewhere. Our study reveals significant distinctions in the distribution of separation distances between damaged-to-damaged structures (average separation of 6.5 m) and damaged-to-not-damaged structures (average separation of 18.1 m). Notably, 84% of the incidents in exposure fires involved fire suppression defensive actions. These defensive actions contributed to the differences in structure separation distance distributions, highlighting the often-neglected role of these measures in assessing structure responses during WUI fires. We examined ignition pathways at select exposure fires, highlighting some common features involved in fire spread and challenges in documenting these pathways. Finally, we propose a set of idealized attributes for documenting exposure fires, accentuating the inherent difficulties in collecting such data across expansive geographical areas, particularly when striving for statistical representation. Our findings yield valuable insights into the multifaceted nature of exposure fires, informing future research and database development to aid in mitigating their impact on vulnerable communities.
Southern Horse Mackerel (Trachurus trachurus) Spatio-Temporal Distribution Patterns Based on Fine-Scale Resolution Data
Authors: Mendes Hugo , Silva Cristina , Azevedo Manuela
Published: February 2024

In this study, the distribution patterns of southern horse mackerel are examined using commercial fine-scale resolution data. Using landings by size category and VMS data from the Portuguese commercial bottom-trawl fishery, which consistently targets horse mackerel, this study provides a comprehensive analysis of horse mackerel age distributions spanning a decade (2010–2020). Importantly, this study addresses potential biases in commercial effort data and establishes the usefulness of commercial bottom-trawl gear as a suitable method for sampling and evaluating southern horse mackerel stock dynamics. Ordered regression models were applied to allow for the modelling of the distribution of multiple age categories and investigate spatio-temporal migrations off the Portuguese coast. Southern horse mackerel show a widespread age distribution range and stable abundance with indications of seasonal and spatial patterns in the distribution of specific age groups. The insights derived from this research contribute valuable knowledge for understanding the dynamics and distribution patterns of fish populations.
Broccoli, Amaranth, and Red Beet Microgreen Juices: The Influence of Cold-Pressing on the Phytochemical Composition and the Antioxidant and Sensory Properties
Authors: Belošević Spasoje D. , Milinčić Danijel D. , Gašić Uroš M. , Kostić Aleksandar Ž. , Salević-Jelić Ana S. , Marković Jovana M. , Đorđević Verica B. , Lević Steva M. , Pešić Mirjana B. , Nedović Viktor A.
Published: February 2024

The aim of this study was to analyze in detail the phytochemical composition of amaranth (AMJ), red beet (RBJ), and broccoli (BCJ) microgreens and cold-pressed juices and to evaluate the antioxidant and sensory properties of the juices. The results showed the presence of various phenolic compounds in all samples, namely betalains in amaranth and red beet microgreens, while glucosinolates were only detected in broccoli microgreens. Phenolic acids and derivatives dominated in amaranth and broccoli microgreens, while apigenin C-glycosides were most abundant in red beet microgreens. Cold-pressing of microgreens into juice significantly altered the profiles of bioactive compounds. Various isothiocyanates were detected in BCJ, while more phenolic acid aglycones and their derivatives with organic acids (quinic acid and malic acid) were identified in all juices. Microgreen juices exhibited good antioxidant properties, especially ABTS•+ scavenging activity and ferric reducing antioxidant power. Microgreen juices had mild acidity, low sugar content, and good sensory acceptability and quality with the typical flavors of the respective microgreen species. Cold-pressed microgreen juices from AMJ, RBJ, and BCJ represent a rich source of bioactive compounds and can be characterized as novel functional products.
The Lipidic and Volatile Components of Coffee Pods and Capsules Packaged in an Alternative Multilayer Film
Authors: Basile Giulia , De Luca Lucia , Calabrese Martina , Lambiase Gianfranco , Pizzolongo Fabiana , Romano Raffaele
Published: February 2024

Coffee pods and capsules require packaging that guarantees the optimal coffee preservation. The chemical composition of coffee can undergo quality decay phenomena during storage, especially in terms of lipidic and volatile components. Amongst coffee packaging, aluminum multilayer materials are particularly widely diffused. However, aluminum is a negative component because it is not recoverable in a mixed plastic structure and its specific weight gives significant weight to packaging. In this study, a multilayer film with a reduced content of aluminum was used to package coffe pods and capsules and compared to a standard film with an aluminum layer. Their influence on the peroxides and volatile organic compounds of two coffee blends, 100% Coffea arabica L., 50% Coffea arabica L., and 50% Coffea canephora var. robusta L., were studied during their 180-day shelf life. The predominant volatile organic compounds detected belonged to the class of furans and pyrazines. Both packaging materials used for both coffee blends in the pods and capsules showed no significant differences during storage. Thus, the alternative packaging with less aluminum had the same performance as the standard with the advantage of being more sustainable, reducing the packaging weight, with benefits for transportation, and preserving the coffee aroma during the shelf life.
Characterization of the Fine-Scale Evolution of Damage in Shale under the Influence of Two-Way Stress Differences Based on CT Images and Fractal Theory—The Example of the Anba Dyke in the Wufeng–Longmaxi Formation
Authors: Lan Baofeng , Yang Ruidong , Wu Zhonghu , Jiang Haishen , Li Xinzheng
Published: February 2024

To better understand the influence of different levels of two-way stress differences on the development of damage in Anchang diametral laminar shale in the northern Qianbei area, a numerical model of laminar shale with a representative fine-scale structure was established by using RFPA3D-CT. A triaxial compression test was conducted; a three-dimensional mesoscale fracture box dimension algorithm based on digital images was generated by using MATLAB R2020b; and the fractal characteristics were quantitatively analyzed. The results showed that under the influence of the horizontal stress ratio and two-way stress, the greater the two-way stress is, the more notable the plastic characteristics of specimen damage are, and the higher the residual strength is. The specimens with lower two-way stress exhibited obvious brittle damage characteristics. The difficulty degree of complex fracture network formation increased with the increase in the horizontal tension ratio, and the degree of increase in the fracture network complexity gradually decreased. At a horizontal stress ratio of 1.25, the fractal dimension was the highest, which indicates that the cracks were the most pronounced. Fracture formation after specimen damage was the most common phenomenon. Under the condition of a lower horizontal stress ratio, a large number of fracture structures could be generated in shale specimens after damage, promoting the expansion of natural fractures.
Global Regulatory Frameworks for the Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the Healthcare Services Sector
Authors: Palaniappan Kavitha , Lin Elaine Yan Ting , Vogel Silke
Published: February 2024

The healthcare sector is faced with challenges due to a shrinking healthcare workforce and a rise in chronic diseases that are worsening with demographic and epidemiological shifts. Digital health interventions that include artificial intelligence (AI) are being identified as some of the potential solutions to these challenges. The ultimate aim of these AI systems is to improve the patient’s health outcomes and satisfaction, the overall population’s health, and the well-being of healthcare professionals. The applications of AI in healthcare services are vast and are expected to assist, automate, and augment several healthcare services. Like any other emerging innovation, AI in healthcare also comes with its own risks and requires regulatory controls. A review of the literature was undertaken to study the existing regulatory landscape for AI in the healthcare services sector in developed nations. In the global regulatory landscape, most of the regulations for AI revolve around Software as a Medical Device (SaMD) and are regulated under digital health products. However, it is necessary to note that the current regulations may not suffice as AI-based technologies are capable of working autonomously, adapting their algorithms, and improving their performance over time based on the new real-world data that they have encountered. Hence, a global regulatory convergence for AI in healthcare, similar to the voluntary AI code of conduct that is being developed by the US-EU Trade and Technology Council, would be beneficial to all nations, be it developing or developed.
Drivers’ Steering Behavior in Curve by Means of New Indicators
Authors: Bosurgi Gaetano , Di Perna Miriam , Pellegrino Orazio , Sollazzo Giuseppe , Ruggeri Alessia
Published: February 2024

The design of road geometry is based on a rather elementary assumption that the user strictly follows the lane axis. Based on this hypothesis, the ideal trend of some factors related to the driver’s performance, such as steering angle and speed, can be derived to optimize the most appropriate design choices. In practice, driving behavior differs from the assumed one and produces trends in these variables, which are very different from the ideal functions. The purpose of this research is therefore to propose synthetic performance indicators useful for highlighting the real characteristics of users’ driving behavior during road travel. Toward this aim, some driving experiments along four different curves in a simulated environment were studied in order to evidence possible criticisms. The proposed indicators showed a remarkable ability to represent and synthesize even very complex performance function trends. The proposed performance indicators can have multiple uses, such as, for example, in statistical analyses—which are generally carried out at a later stage—or constitute sufficient information to guide the decisions of infrastructure managers. In the long term, in a “smart road” perspective, they can be used by road administrators for information exchange among users (with each other and with the infrastructure) to improve road operation and safety.
HBV in Italian Women’s Jail: An Underestimated Problem?
Authors: Geremia Nicholas , Giovagnorio Federico , De Vito Andrea , Martignago Luca , Fiore Vito , Rastrelli Elena , Madeddu Giordano , Parisi Saverio Giuseppe , Starnini Giulio , Panese Sandro , Babudieri Sergio
Published: February 2024

Background: There is little information regarding the hepatitis B virus (HBV), vaccination status, and hepatitis B exposure in Italian women’s jails. We aimed to describe the HBV exposure and HBs antibody (anti-HBs) protection levels in female prisoners. Material and methods: A retrospective multicentric study was performed in Italian prisons from 2021 to 2023. Univariate and multivariate analyses were conducted to identify risk factors for HBc antibody (anti-HBc) seropositivity and non-protective anti-HBs titer. Results: We included 156 patients. The median age was 41.0 (IQR 34.0–48.0). Of the studied subjects, 31 (19.9%) had anti-HBc positive titer. Two women were HBsAg positive. In the multivariate analysis, older age [OR 1.06 (CI 1.01–1.11), p = 0.011], North-Eastern European [OR 11.67 (3.29–41.30), p < 0.001] and African origin [OR 6.92 (CI 1.51–31.60), p = 0.013], and drug use [OR 6.55 (CI 1.96–21.9), p = 0.002] were risk factors for HBV exposure. Thirty-seven (32%) women had no history of HBV vaccination. Forty-four (38%) had an anti-HBs non-protective titer. In the multivariate analysis, North-Eastern European origin [OR 4.55 (CI 1.19–17.50), p = 0.027] was associated with unprotective anti-HBs titer. Conclusion: Our results show both the low prevalence of HBV and protection in female prisoners. Age, North-Eastern European and African origin, and drug use have a role in exposure risk to HBV.
Enhancing Cochlear Implant Outcomes across Age Groups: The Interplay of Forward Focus and Advanced Combination Encoder Coding Strategies in Noisy Conditions
Authors: Wagner Telse M. , Wagner Luise , Plontke Stefan K. , Rahne Torsten
Published: February 2024

Background: Hearing in noise is challenging for cochlear implant users and requires significant listening effort. This study investigated the influence of ForwardFocus and number of maxima of the Advanced Combination Encoder (ACE) strategy, as well as age, on speech recognition threshold and listening effort in noise. Methods: A total of 33 cochlear implant recipients were included (age ≤ 40 years: n = 15, >40 years: n = 18). The Oldenburg Sentence Test was used to measure 50% speech recognition thresholds (SRT50) in fluctuating and stationary noise. Speech was presented frontally, while three frontal or rear noise sources were used, and the number of ACE maxima varied between 8 and 12. Results: ForwardFocus significantly improved the SRT50 when noise was presented from the back, independent of subject age. The use of 12 maxima further improved the SRT50 when ForwardFocus was activated and when noise and speech were presented frontally. Listening effort was significantly worse in the older age group compared to the younger age group and was reduced by ForwardFocus but not by increasing the number of ACE maxima. Conclusion: Forward Focus can improve speech recognition in noisy environments and reduce listening effort, especially in older cochlear implant users.
Cardiac Mechanics and Valvular and Vascular Abnormalities in Hypereosinophilic Syndrome
Authors: Nemes Attila
Published: February 2024

Hypereosinophilic syndrome (HES) is considered to be a rare myeloproliferative disease that is characterized by persistent eosinophilia with associated multiple-organ damage. The heart is often involved in HES, representing a major cause of morbidity and mortality. HES is a heterogeneous group of disorders; the majority of the cases are idiopathic. Summarizing the findings regarding myocardial, valvular, and vascular abnormalities in a series of patients with HES, most studies found normal left ventricular (LV) volumes with reduced LV global longitudinal strain and LV apical rotation and twist in HES cases, accompanied by increased left atrial (LA) volumes and stroke volumes, reduced peak LA circumferential strain (representing systolic abnormalities), and mitral annular dilation and functional deterioration. Regarding the right heart, preserved right ventricular volumes and functional properties, increased right atrial volumes, mild RA functional abnormalities, and dilated tricuspid annular dimensions without functional impairment could be seen in these studies. Aortic and pulmonary valves showed no specific disease-related alterations. Vascular abnormalities included increased aortic stiffness without dilation of the aorta and pulmonary hypertension in some cases. These results suggest disease-specific but relatively mild myocardial, valvular, and vascular abnormalities in HES. The present review aimed to summarize the available clinical data about cardiac mechanics and valvular and vascular abnormalities in a series of patients with HES.
Can Patients with Electrolyte Disturbances Be Safely and Effectively Treated in a Hospital-at-Home, Telemedicine-Controlled Environment? A Retrospective Analysis of 267 Patients
Authors: May Cohn , Or Gueron , Gad Segal , Daniel Zubli , Hila Hakim , Boris Fizdel , Pninit Liber , Hadar Amir , Galia Barkai
Published: February 2024

Background. Morbidities indicated for hospital-at-home (HAH) treatment include infectious diseases and exacerbations of chronic conditions. Electrolyte disturbances are not included per se. However, their rate is high. We aimed to describe our experience via the monitoring and treatment of such patients. Methods. This was a retrospective analysis of patients in the setting of telemedicine-controlled HAH treatment. We collected data from the electronic medical records of patients who presented electrolyte disturbances. Results. For 14 months, we treated 267 patients in total in HAH settings, with a mean age of 72.2 + 16.4, 44.2% for males. In total, 261 (97.75%) patients were flagged with electrolyte disturbances, of whom 149 had true electrolyte disturbances. Furthermore, 67 cases (44.96%) had hyponatremia, 9 (6.04%) had hypernatremia after correction for hyperglycemia, 20 (13.42%) had hypokalemia and 27 (18.12%) had hyperkalemia after the exclusion of hemolytic samples. Ten (6.09%) patients had hypocalcemia and two (1.34%) had hypercalcemia corrected to albumin levels. Thirteen (8.72%) patients had hypomagnesemia and one (0.67%) had hypermagnesemia. Patients with electrolyte disturbances suffered from more chronic kidney disease (24.2% vs. 12.2%; p = 0.03) and malignancy (6.3% vs. 0.6%; p = 0.006), and were more often treated with diuretics (12.6% vs. 4.1%; p = 0.016). No patient died or suffered from clinically significant cardiac arrhythmias. Conclusions. The extent of electrolyte disturbances amongst HAH treatment patients is high. The monitoring and treatment of such patients can be conducted safely in this setting.
Durability of Tricuspid Valve Repair in Patients Undergoing Left Ventricular Assist Device Implantation
Authors: Färber Gloria , Schwan Imke , Kirov Hristo , Rose Marcel , Tkebuchava Sophie , Schneider Ulrich , Caldonazo Tulio , Diab Mahmoud , Doenst Torsten
Published: February 2024

Objectives: Benefits of tricuspid valve repair (TVR) in left ventricular assist device (LVAD) patients have been questioned. High TVR failure rates have been reported. Remaining or recurring TR was found to be a risk factor for right heart failure (RHF). Therefore, we assessed our experience. Methods: Since 12/2010, 195 patients have undergone LVAD implantation in our center. Almost half (n = 94, 48%) received concomitant TVR (LVAD+TVR). These patients were included in our analysis. Echocardiographic and clinical data were assessed. Median follow-up was 2.8 years (7 days–0.6 years). Results were correlated with clinical outcomes. Results: LVAD+TVR patients were 59.8 ± 11.4 years old (89.4% male) and 37.3% were INTERMACS level 1 and 2. Preoperative TR was moderate in 28 and severe in 66 patients. RV function was severely impaired in 61 patients reflected by TAPSE-values of 11.2 ± 2.9 mm (vs. 15.7 ± 3.8 mm in n = 33; p < 0.001). Risk for RHF according to EUROMACS-RHF risk score was high (>4 points) in 60 patients, intermediate (>2–4 points) in 19 and low (0–2 points) in 15. RHF occurred in four patients (4.3%). Mean duration of echocardiographic follow-up was 2.8 ± 2.3 years. None of the patients presented with severe and only five (5.3%) with moderate TR. The vast majority (n = 63) had mild TR, and 26 patients had no/trace TR. Survival at 1, 3 and 5 years was 77.4%, 68.1% and 55.6%, 30-day mortality was 11.7% (n = 11). Heart transplantation was performed in 12 patients (12.8%). Conclusions: Contrary to expectations, concomitant TVR during LVAD implantation may result in excellent repair durability, which appears to be associated with low risk for RHF.
Achieving Better Understanding of Obstructive Sleep Apnea Treatment Effects on Cardiovascular Disease Outcomes through Machine Learning Approaches: A Narrative Review
Authors: Cohen Oren , Kundel Vaishnavi , Robson Philip , Al-Taie Zainab , Suárez-Fariñas Mayte , Shah Neomi A.
Published: February 2024

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) affects almost a billion people worldwide and is associated with a myriad of adverse health outcomes. Among the most prevalent and morbid are cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Nonetheless, randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of OSA treatment have failed to show improvements in CVD outcomes. A major limitation in our field is the lack of precision in defining OSA and specifically subgroups with the potential to benefit from therapy. Further, this has called into question the validity of using the time-honored apnea–hypopnea index as the ultimate defining criteria for OSA. Recent applications of advanced statistical methods and machine learning have brought to light a variety of OSA endotypes and phenotypes. These methods also provide an opportunity to understand the interaction between OSA and comorbid diseases for better CVD risk stratification. Lastly, machine learning and specifically heterogeneous treatment effects modeling can help uncover subgroups with differential outcomes after treatment initiation. In an era of data sharing and big data, these techniques will be at the forefront of OSA research. Advanced data science methods, such as machine-learning analyses and artificial intelligence, will improve our ability to determine the unique influence of OSA on CVD outcomes and ultimately allow us to better determine precision medicine approaches in OSA patients for CVD risk reduction. In this narrative review, we will highlight how team science via machine learning and artificial intelligence applied to existing clinical data, polysomnography, proteomics, and imaging can do just that.
Quality Improvement in Anesthetic Management of Patients with Left Ventricular Assist Device Support Presenting for Non-Cardiac Surgery: A Single Center Experience
Authors: Yahav-Shafir Dana D , Schmelczer Ascher Jekutiel Gérard , Frogel Jonathan , Matskovsky Ilya , Zabida Amir , Eisenberger Jonathan , Morgan Jeffrey A.
Published: February 2024

With the growing number of left ventricular assist device (LVAD) recipients requiring non-cardiac surgery and the limited availability of cardiac anesthesiologists, our study reviewed non-cardiac surgeries in HeartMate III patients with LVAD at our institution. We focused on anesthesiologist roles, detailing patient characteristics, anesthetic management, and outcomes and identifying improvement opportunities in this specialized care setting. A retrospective chart review was conducted of all patients with LVAD who underwent non-cardiac surgery at our institution between 2017 and 2022. Patient demographics, surgical characteristics, anesthetic management, and 30-day mortality rates were also assessed. A total of 23 patients were identified, with 17 (73.9%) males and a median age of 61 [53.5, 67.5] years. Cardiac anesthesiologists were present in nine (39.1%) cases. Elective surgeries were more common (73.9%), with intermediate-risk surgeries accounting for 52.2% of all surgeries. General anesthesia was administered to 18 patients (78.3%), with a median duration of 40 [24, 63.5] min. A single patient required reoperation because of bleeding, and two patients (8.7%) experienced 30-day mortality. Despite guidelines lacking detail, involving non-cardiac anesthesiologists in certain cases is essential. Sharing our experience aims to enhance the evolving discourse on non-cardiac surgeries for patients with LVAD, improving their outcomes and safety.
Endothelial Migration and Regeneration after Penetrating Trauma Injury in a Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty Graft: Case Presentation and Literature Overview
Authors: Pagano Luca , Borgia Alfredo , Alfaqawi Fadi , Makuloluwa Aruni , Coco Giulia , Giannaccare Giuseppe , Messina Marco , Romano Vito , Gadhvi Kunal
Published: February 2024

Background: Traumatic injuries in eyes previously treated with Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty (DALK) can lead to ruptures in the Descemet Membrane (DM) and damage to the corneal endothelium, a crucial layer for maintaining corneal clarity. Due to cell cycle constraints, the human corneal endothelium cannot proliferate; instead, it compensates for injury through cell enlargement and migration from adjacent areas. Methods: This study examines a notable case of corneal endothelial cell migration following a penetrating eye injury in a patient previously treated with DALK for keratoconus, supplemented by a review of relevant literature to contextualize the regenerative response. Results: A 39-year-old male with a history of DALK suffered a traumatic eye injury, resulting in damage to the Descemet Membrane and loss of the crystalline lens. After primary repair and considerations for further surgery, the patient’s cornea cleared remarkably, with an improved visual acuity. This demonstrates the DM’s potential for self-repair through endothelial cell migration. Conclusions: The outcomes suggest that delaying corneal transplant surgery for up to 3 months following Descemet Membrane injury due to ocular trauma could be advantageous. Allowing time for natural healing processes might eliminate the need for further invasive surgeries, thereby improving patient recovery outcomes.
Comprehensive Evaluation of Multispectral Image Registration Strategies in Heterogenous Agriculture Environment
Authors: Rana Shubham , Gerbino Salvatore , Crimaldi Mariano , Cirillo Valerio , Carillo Petronia , Sarghini Fabrizio , Maggio Albino
Published: February 2024

This article is focused on the comprehensive evaluation of alleyways to scale-invariant feature transform (SIFT) and random sample consensus (RANSAC) based multispectral (MS) image registration. In this paper, the idea is to extensively evaluate three such SIFT- and RANSAC-based registration approaches over a heterogenous mix containing Triticum aestivum crop and Raphanus raphanistrum weed. The first method is based on the application of a homography matrix, derived during the registration of MS images on spatial coordinates of individual annotations to achieve spatial realignment. The second method is based on the registration of binary masks derived from the ground truth of individual spectral channels. The third method is based on the registration of only the masked pixels of interest across the respective spectral channels. It was found that the MS image registration technique based on the registration of binary masks derived from the manually segmented images exhibited the highest accuracy, followed by the technique involving registration of masked pixels, and lastly, registration based on the spatial realignment of annotations. Among automatically segmented images, the technique based on the registration of automatically predicted mask instances exhibited higher accuracy than the technique based on the registration of masked pixels. In the ground truth images, the annotations performed through the near-infrared channel were found to have a higher accuracy, followed by green, blue, and red spectral channels. Among the automatically segmented images, the accuracy of the blue channel was observed to exhibit a higher accuracy, followed by the green, near-infrared, and red channels. At the individual instance level, the registration based on binary masks depicted the highest accuracy in the green channel, followed by the method based on the registration of masked pixels in the red channel, and lastly, the method based on the spatial realignment of annotations in the green channel. The instance detection of wild radish with YOLOv8l-seg was observed at a mAP@0.5 of 92.11% and a segmentation accuracy of 98% towards segmenting its binary mask instances.
Assessment of Soil Quality of Smallholder Agroecosystems in the Semiarid Region of Northeastern Brazil
Authors: Macedo Rodrigo Santana , Lima Renato Pereira , de Almeida Alves Carneiro Kalline , Moro Letícia , Refati Daiana Caroline , Campos Milton Cesar Costa , Beirigo Raphael Moreira , da Cruz Gislayne Kayne Gomes , de Sousa Antonio Augusto Pereira , de Brito Neto José Félix , Duarte Josivânia Araújo , Costa Deibson Teixeira da
Published: February 2024

The assessment of soil quality is crucial for the sustainable development of agriculture in semiarid regions. Due to their sensitivity to management practices, soil chemical and physical quality indicators are used for investigating soil quality. This study aimed to assess the soil quality of smallholder agroecosystems from the Brazilian semiarid region. Soil physical and chemical attributes were screened using principal component analysis (PCA) and integrated into a weighted additive soil quality index (SQI). Soil quality was obtained using linear and non-linear scoring methods, a total data set (TDS), and a minimum data set (MDS). The soil quality of the agroecosystems was designated as being of moderate grade. The MDS for soil quality assessment includes cation exchange capacity, C stock, exchangeable sodium percentage, flocculation degree, pH, electrical conductivity, available P, and K+ from twenty-five indicators of the TDS. This MDS mainly reflects the input of manure and crop residues associated with moderate weathering of easily weatherable minerals given the semiarid conditions. The SQI obtained can be used to synthesize the information of the TDS and is a valuable tool to indicate the soil quality of agroecosystems; thereby, it can be used with indicators of sustainable management for application at a regional scale.
Text Mining Approaches to Language Use in Social Media: The Case of Portuguese Bué
Authors: Lívio Camila , Howe Chad
Published: February 2024

This study describes processes of language change in Angolan Portuguese focusing on the use of intensifiers. Previous studies have shown that intensifiers are a relevant category for the study of language change due to their rapid change and variable meaning. It has been noted that intensifiers are particularly prone to renewal, suggesting speakers’ desire to innovate. Informed by a Digital Humanities approach, we collect and analyze data from Twitter (now X), focusing on the multi-functional intensifier bué, ‘very’, in Angolan Portuguese (AP). In this paper, we (1) provide an overview of the word’s distribution in AP, (2) consider the processes of change involved in bué’s variation, and (3) discuss the role of linguistic borrowing in language change and grammaticalization, shedding light on some of the cultural aspects that play a role in this word’s development, such as the influence of the media and the contact situation between Angolan and European Portuguese.
Competition in the Complementation of Old English Control Verbs with Oblique Marking: A Corpus Analysis
Authors: Ojanguren López Ana Elvira
Published: February 2024

The aim of this article is to explain the syntactic competition found in the complementation of Old English Prevent verbs. The competition on argumenthood involves linked verbal predications and linked nominal predications. Evidence is gathered for continuity both between finite and non-finite linked verbal predications as well as between non-finite and nominalised linked predications. This evidence points to a diachronic development: finite clause > non-finite clause > nominalisation. The main conclusion of the article is that the Interclausal Relation Hierarchy predicts the replacement of the finite clause complementation with non-finite clause complementation in such a way that the syntactically tighter noun phrase involving a deverbal nominalisation constitutes the next step of syntactic development.
Sucralose: From Sweet Success to Metabolic Controversies—Unraveling the Global Health Implications of a Pervasive Non-Caloric Artificial Sweetener
Authors: Aguayo-Guerrero José Alfredo , Méndez-García Lucía Angélica , Solleiro-Villavicencio Helena , Viurcos-Sanabria Rebeca , Escobedo Galileo
Published: February 2024

Sucralose is a food additive initially used to mitigate glycemic peaks and calorie intake in patients with diabetes and obesity. Although sucralose has been considered safe for human consumption, the World Health Organization (WHO) issued a global alert in 2023 concerning the potential health implications of this artificial sweetener. This review aims to comprehensively explore the effects of sucralose intake on human health by understanding sucralose absorption, metabolism, and excretion. We also outline the role of the sweet taste 1 receptor 3 (T1R3) in mediating sucralose-dependent signaling pathways that regulate satiety, incretin release, and insulin response. Finally, we discuss the impact of sucralose on microbiome dysbiosis, inflammatory response origin, liver damage, and toxicity. Gaining a deeper understanding of the manifold effects of sucralose on human physiology will help promote further studies to ensure its consumption is deemed safe for a broader population, including children, adolescents, and pregnant women.
Uniqueness of a Generalized Solution for a One-Dimensional Thermal Explosion Model of a Compressible Micropolar Real Gas
Authors: Bašić-Šiško Angela , Dražić Ivan
Published: February 2024

In this paper, we analyze a quasi-linear parabolic initial-boundary problem describing the thermal explosion of a compressible micropolar real gas in one spatial dimension. The model contains five variables, mass density, velocity, microrotation, temperature, and the mass fraction of unburned fuel, while the associated problem contains homogeneous boundary conditions. The aim of this work is to prove the uniqueness theorem of the generalized solution for the mentioned initial-boundary problem. The uniqueness of the solution, together with the proven existence of the solution, makes the described initial-boundary problem theoretically consistent, which provides a basis for the development of numerical methods and the engineering application of the model.
Analyzing Soliton Solutions of the Extended (3 + 1)-Dimensional Sakovich Equation
Authors: Alqahtani Rubayyi T. , Kaplan Melike
Published: February 2024

This work focuses on the utilization of the generalized exponential rational function method (GERFM) to analyze wave propagation of the extended (3 + 1)-dimensional Sakovich equation. The demonstrated effectiveness and robustness of the employed method underscore its relevance to a wider spectrum of nonlinear partial differential equations (NPDEs) in physical phenomena. An examination of the physical characteristics of the generated solutions has been conducted through two- and three-dimensional graphical representations.
Long-Run Equilibrium in the Market of Mobile Services in the USA
Authors: Badev Anton , Kabaivanov Stanimir , Kopanov Petar , Zhelinski Vasil , Zlatanov Boyan
Published: February 2024

We develop an empirical model of the market for mobile services in the USA based on providers’ response functions. Guided by a duopoly model, we obtain our empirical response functions from an approximation of quarterly response data on smartphone subscriptions by sigmoid functions of time. The robustness analysis suggests that our model fits the data well and outperforms the regression model. Further, we demonstrate that our empirical response functions satisfy the conditions for semi-cyclic contractions which guarantee the existence, uniqueness and stability of long-run equilibrium.
A Two-Grid Algorithm of the Finite Element Method for the Two-Dimensional Time-Dependent Schrödinger Equation
Authors: Wang Jianyun , Zhong Zixin , Tian Zhikun , Liu Ying
Published: February 2024

In this paper, we construct a new two-grid algorithm of the finite element method for the Schrödinger equation in backward Euler and Crank–Nicolson fully discrete schemes. On the coarser grid, we solve coupled real and imaginary parts of the Schrödinger equation. On the fine grid, real and imaginary parts of the Schrödinger equation are decoupled, and we solve the elliptic equation about real and imaginary parts, respectively. Then, we obtain error estimates of the exact solution with the two-grid solution in the H1-norm and carry out two numerical experiments.
Current Trends in Biohumoral Screening for the Risk of Sudden Cardiac Death: A Systematic Review
Authors: Isailă Oana-Maria , Moroianu Lavinia-Alexandra , Hostiuc Sorin
Published: February 2024

Background and Objectives: Sudden cardiac death (SCD) represents a challenge to health systems globally and is met with increased frequency in the population. Over time, multiple screening methods have been proposed, including the analysis of various plasma biomarkers. This article aims to analyze for illustrative purposes the specialized literature in terms of current biomarkers and testing trends, in the case of cardiovascular diseases and implicitly sudden cardiac death. Materials and Methods: In this regard, we searched the PubMed database from 2010 to the present time using the keywords “sudden cardiac death” and “biomarkers”. The inclusion criteria were clinical trials that analyzed the effectiveness of screening methods in terms of biomarkers used in stratifying the risk of cardiac distress and/or sudden cardiac death. We excluded reviews, meta-analyses, and studies looking at the effectiveness of treatments. Results: An extended approach was found, through studies that brought to the forefront both classical markers analyzed by new, more performant methods, markers for other pathologies that also determined cardiovascular impact, non-specific molecules with effects on the cardiovascular system, and state-of-the-art markers, such as microRNA. Some molecules were analyzed simultaneously in certain groups of patients. Conclusion: The observed current trend revealed the tendency to define the clinical-biological particularities of the person to be screened.
Comparative Analysis of Hindgut Microbiota Variation in Protaetia brevitarsis Larvae across Diverse Farms
Authors: Min Namkyong , Min Jean Geung , Cammayo-Fletcher Paula Leona T. , Nguyen Binh T. , Yim Dongjean
Published: February 2024

Protaetia brevitarsis larvae are farm-raised for food, are used in traditional East Asian medicine, and convert organic waste into biofertilizers. Here, the comparative analysis of the gut microbiota of third-instar larvae obtained from five different farms was investigated using 16S rRNA microbial profiling. Species richness, evenness, and diversity results using α-diversity analysis (observed species, Chao1, Shannon, Simpson) were similar between farms, except for those between the TO and KO farms. β-diversity was significantly different in distribution and relative abundance between farms (PERMANOVA, pseudo-F = 13.20, p = 0.001). At the phylum level, Bacillota, Bacteroidota, Actinomycetota, and Pseudomonadota were the most dominant, accounting for 73–88% of the hindgut microbial community. At the genus level, Tuberibacillus, Proteiniphilum, Desulfovibrio, Luoshenia, and Thermoactinomyces were the most abundant. Although oak sawdust was the main feed component, there were large variations in distribution and relative abundance across farms at the phylum and genus levels. Venn diagram and linear discriminant analysis effect size analyses revealed large variations in the hindgut microbial communities of P. brevitarsis larvae between farms. These results suggest environmental factors were more important than feed ingredients or genetic predisposition for the establishment of the intestinal microbiota of P. brevitarsis larvae. These findings serve as reference data to understand the intestinal microbiota of P. brevitarsis larvae.
Physiological Functions of the Cello-Oligosaccharides Binding CebE in the Pathogenic Streptomyces sp. AMCC400023
Authors: Li Qiuyue , Chang Jiawen , Lv Peiwen , Li Junxia , Duan Yuxia , Tian Dandan , Ge Fei , Su Gaoya , Nie Fengjie , Gao Zheng , Yang Chunyu , Zhou Bo
Published: February 2024

Potato common scab, an economically important disease worldwide, is caused by pathogenic Streptomyces strains mainly through the effects of thaxtomin. The cello-oligosaccharides binding protein CebE is proposed as a gateway to the pathogenic development of Streptomyces scabiei. In this study, two functional CebE encoding genes, GEO5601 and GEO7671, were identified in pathogenic Streptomyces sp. AMCC400023. With a higher binding affinity towards signal molecules, the deletion of GEO5601 severely impaired thaxtomin-producing capacity and reduced the strain’s pathogenicity. Transcriptional analysis confirmed that CebE5601 is also responsible for the import and provision of carbon sources for cell growth. With lower binding affinity, the pathogenicity island (PAI)-localized CebE7671 may assume a new function of mediating the biological process of sporulation, given the significantly impaired formation of ΔGEO7671 spores. The mechanisms of action of CebE proteins unraveled in Streptomyces sp. AMCC400023 will help pave the way for more effective prevention of the potato common scab disease.
Exploration of the Diversity of Vicine and Convicine Derivatives in Faba Bean (Vicia faba L.) Cultivars: Insights from LC-MS/MS Spectra
Authors: Sergeant Kjell , Goertz Simon , Halime Salma , Tietgen Hanna , Heidt Hanna , Minestrini Martina , Jacquard Cédric , Zimmer Stephanie , Renaut Jenny
Published: February 2024

While numerous Fabaceae seeds are a good nutritional source of high-quality protein, the use of some species is hampered by toxic effects caused by exposure to metabolites that accumulate in the seeds. One such species is the faba or broad bean (Vicia faba L.), which accumulates vicine and convicine. These two glycoalkaloids cause favism, the breakdown of red blood cells in persons with a glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency. Because this is the most common enzyme deficiency worldwide, faba bean breeding efforts have focused on developing cultivars with low levels of these alkaloids. Consequently, quantification methods have been developed; however, they quantify vicine and convicine only and not the derivatives of these compounds that potentially generate the same bio-active molecules. Based on the recognition of previously unknown (con)vicine-containing compounds, we screened the fragmentation spectra of LC-MS/MS data from five faba bean cultivars using the characteristic fragments generated by (con)vicine. This resulted in the recognition of more than a hundred derivatives, of which 89 were tentatively identified. (Con)vicine was mainly derivatized through the addition of sugars, hydroxycinnamic acids, and dicarboxylic acids, with a group of compounds composed of two (con)vicine residues linked by dicarboxyl fatty acids. In general, the abundance profiles of the different derivatives in the five cultivars mimicked that of vicine and convicine, but some showed a derivative-specific profile. The description of the (con)vicine diversity will impact the interpretation of future studies on the biosynthesis of (con)vicine, and the content in potentially bio-active alkaloids in faba beans may be higher than that represented by the quantification of vicine and convicine alone.