bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Blood-Flow-Restricted Training on Arterial Functions and Angiogenesis—A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis
Authors: Maga Mikołaj , Wachsmann-Maga Agnieszka , Batko Krzysztof , Włodarczyk Aleksandra , Kłapacz Paulina , Krężel Jakub , Szopa Natalia , Sliwka Agnieszka
Published: June 2023

Despite growing evidence of the significant influence of blood-flow-restricted (BFR) training on different body functions, its impact on the vascular system, especially the arteries, is controversial. Therefore, the objective of our study was to analyze how BFR exercise, compared to other types of exercise without the restriction of blood flow, influences arterial functions and angiogenesis in adults. Studies comparing the effect of BFR versus non-BFR training on arterial parameters were divided into three categories: endothelial function, angiogenesis, and other vasculature functions. The search was based on Cochrane Library, PubMed®, and Embase, and 38 studies were included. The meta-analysis revealed a more significant improvement in flow-mediated dilatation (FMD) (p = 0.002) and the production of the primary angiogenesis biomarker vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) (p = 0.009) after BFR compared to non-BFR training (p = 0.002). The analysis of the pulse wave velocity, ankle-brachial index, systolic blood pressure, and heart rate did not show significant differences in changes between BFR and non-BFR training. The other parameters examined did not have sufficient data to be included in the meta-analysis. The results obtained present trends that suggest significant impacts of BFR training on endothelial functions and angiogenesis. There is still a lack of multicenter randomized clinical trials including many participants, and such studies are necessary to confirm the advantage of BFR over non-BFR activity.
Influence of Age, Gender and Education Level on Executive Functions and Functioning in People with Stroke
Authors: Sánchez-Herrera-Baeza Patricia , Cano-de-la-Cuerda Roberto , Serrada-Tejeda Sergio , Fernández-Vázquez Diego , Navarro-López Víctor , González-Alted Carlos , Miangolarra-Page Juan Carlos
Published: June 2023

Background: Alterations in mental functions are among the most frequent manifestations of stroke that have a direct impact on the patient’s functionality. The objective of this study was to analyze the relationship of sociodemographic variables with the executive functions (EFs) of participants with right middle cerebral artery (MCA) stroke. Methods: A cross-sectional observational case-control study was conducted at the State Center for Brain Damage in Madrid, Spain. Fifty-eight subjects were recruited and divided into two groups. Each participant was administered the following: the FIM+FAM Functional Assessment Measure, the Lawton and Brody scale, The Trail-Making Test, the Zoo Map Test and the Hanoi Tower. Results: Statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) were identified between participants with ischemic stroke and control in functional and EF functions, as well as between participants with hemorrhagic stroke and control. No statistically significant differences were found in the experimental group between subjects who had sustained ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke. No significant associations were identified between the variables age, gender and education level in relation to functionality and executive functions (p > 0.05) in people with stroke. Conclusion: People who have suffered a right cerebral artery stroke have deficiencies in the EFS, resulting in poorer performance of the activity of daily living, compared to healthy subjects of the same age, gender and education level. In the correlational analysis of the stroke participants, no significant associations were identified between the variables gender, age and education level in relation to functionality and EF.
Insights from a Case of Good’s Syndrome (Immunodeficiency with Thymoma)
Authors: Paganelli Roberto , Di Lizia Michela , D’Urbano Marika , Gatta Alessia , Paganelli Alessia , Amerio Paolo , Parronchi Paola
Published: June 2023

Immunodeficiency with thymoma was described by R.A. Good in 1954 and is also named after him. The syndrome is characterized by hypogammaglobulinemia associated with thymoma and recurrent infections, bacterial but also viral, fungal and parasitic. Autoimmune diseases, mainly pure red cell aplasia, other hematological disorders and erosive lichen planus are a common finding. We describe here a typical case exhibiting all these clinical features and report a detailed immunophenotypic assessment, as well as the positivity for autoantibodies against three cytokines (IFN-alpha, IL-6 and GM-CSF), which may add to known immune abnormalities. A review of the published literature, based on case series and immunological studies, offers some hints on the still unsolved issues of this rare condition.
Imunocapture Magnetic Beads Enhanced and Ultrasensitive CRISPR-Cas13a-Assisted Electrochemical Biosensor for Rapid Detection of SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Han Yao , Li Fan , Yang Lan , Guo Xudong , Dong Xue , Niu Mengwei , Jiang Yaxuan , Li Lin , Li Hao , Sun Yansong
Published: June 2023

The rapid and ongoing spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), emphasizes the urgent need for an easy and sensitive virus detection method. Here, we describe an immunocapture magnetic bead-enhanced electrochemical biosensor for ultrasensitive SARS-CoV-2 detection based on clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) and CRISPR-associated (Cas) proteins, collectively known as CRISPR-Cas13a technology. At the core of the detection process, low-cast and immobilization-free commercial screen-printed carbon electrodes are used to measure the electrochemical signal, while streptavidin-coated immunocapture magnetic beads are used to reduce the background noise signal and enhance detection ability by separating the excessive report RNA, and a combination of isothermal amplification methods in the CRISPR-Cas13a system is used for nucleic acid detection. The results showed that the sensitivity of the biosensor increased by two orders of magnitude when the magnetic beads were used. The proposed biosensor required approximately 1 h of overall processing time and demonstrated an ultrasensitive ability to detect SARS-CoV-2, which could be as low as 1.66 aM. Furthermore, owing to the programmability of the CRISPR-Cas13a system, the biosensor can be flexibly applied to other viruses, providing a new approach for powerful clinical diagnostics.
The Extended-Sphenoid Ridge Approach: A New Technique for the Surgical Treatment of Skull Base Tumors in Pediatric Patients
Authors: Garcia-Navarrete Roberto , Marhx-Bracho Alfonso , Terrazo-Lluch Javier , Pérez-Gómez José
Published: June 2023

The sphenoid ridge approach (SRA) was initially described as a surgical technique for treating vascular pathologies near the Sylvian fissure. However, limited studies have systematically explored the use of skull base techniques in pediatric patients. This study investigated an extended variation in the sphenoid ridge approach (E-SRA), which systematically removed the pterion, orbital walls (roof and lateral wall), greater sphenoid wing, and anterior clinoid process to access the base of the skull. Objective: This report aimed to evaluate the advantages of the extradural removal of the orbital roof, pterion, sphenoid wing, and anterior clinoid process as a complement to the sphenoid ridge approach in pediatric patients. Patients and Methods: We enrolled 36 patients with suspected neoplastic diseases in different regions. The E-SRA was performed to treat the patients. Patients were included based on the a priori objective of a biopsy or a total gross resection. The surgical time required to complete the approach, associated bleeding, and any complications were documented. Results: Our results demonstrated that the proposed a priori surgical goal, biopsy, or resection were successfully achieved in all cases. In addition, using the E-SRA technique was associated with a shorter operative time, minimal bleeding, and a lower incidence of complications. The most frequently encountered complications were related to dural closure. Conclusions: The extended sphenoid ridge approach represents a safe and effective option for managing intracranial tumors in pediatrics.
Effect of Obesity and Osteocalcin on Brain Glucose Metabolism in Healthy Participants
Authors: Shin Seunghyeon , Nam Hyun-Yeol
Published: June 2023

We evaluated the effects of obesity and osteocalcin on glucose metabolism in the brain. A total of 179 healthy men were enrolled in this study. After preprocessing positron emission tomography images, including by performing coregistration, spatial normalization, and smoothing, regression analysis was conducted to identify the correlation between body mass index, osteocalcin, and brain glucose metabolism. Body mass index was positively correlated with brain glucose metabolism in the anterior lobe of the right cerebellum, the anterior and posterior lobes of the left cerebellum, the right middle frontal gyrus (Brodmann area 9), the right cingulate gyrus (Brodmann area 32), the right anterior cingulate (Brodmann area 32), the left middle frontal gyrus (Brodmann area 10), and the subgyral area of the left frontal lobe. Osteocalcin was negatively correlated with glucose metabolism in the anterior lobe of the left cerebellum. Body mass index was positively correlated with brain glucose metabolism in the prefrontal cortex and cerebellum. Osteocalcin levels were negatively correlated with brain glucose metabolism in the left cerebellum.
Modular and Prefabricated System for Waterproofing and Insulation of Flat Roofs
Authors: Rocha Patrícia Fernandes , Ferreira Nuno Oliveira , Queiroz Dóris , Pereira Nelson Bento
Published: June 2023

Recently, there has been an attempt to implement increasingly significant prefabrication in building construction, since this method is considered to represent an opportunity to reduce impacts in the construction sector. For pitched roofs, there have been relevant developments, such as sandwich panels, asphalt shingles, lightweight roof panels, among others. However, in relation to flat roofs, the advances have been of little relevance and are mainly limited to the improvement of technical characteristics and prefabrication of the construction materials used. The main goal of this article is to demonstrate the possibility of developing new solutions for more sustainable flat roofs in the carbon footprint, and for this purpose a system was developed called ADAPTIVE—Advanced Production System for Sustainable and Productive Roofing Retrofit, which consists of developing a composite solution for the rehabilitation of flat roofs, completely prefabricated and with zero waste, with the aim of increasing energy behaviour, collecting and storing rainwater, and using the roof as a garden leisure space. To obtain the validation results, computerised theoretical modelling was conducted with theoretical assessment of the components and the set of components developed, which allowed us to conclude that the system meets the high hygrothermal, acoustic, and structural requirements.
Optimization of Rockburst Risk Control Measures for Deeply Buried TBM Tunnels: A Case Study
Authors: Li Pengxiang , Zhao Jinshuai , Bu Wankui , Niu Wenjing , Liu Pinpin , Sun Minghong
Published: June 2023

Choosing reasonable control measures for different intensity rockburst risks not only effectively prevents and mitigates rockburst risks but also reduces time and engineering investment costs. Due to the limitations of the tunnel boring machine’s structure and working conditions, tunnels excavated by TBMs are highly susceptible to rockbursts. What is even worse is that there are very few measures to control the rockburst risk in these tunnels. Implementing reasonable control measures from the limited mitigation measures to control and mitigate rockburst in TBM tunnels is an urgent problem that warrants a solution. In this paper, a large number of on-site rockburst risk control cases and a large amount of MS monitoring data (the total mileage of MS monitoring is approximately 7 km, lasting for 482 days) are used to derive a reasonable scheme to control the rockburst risk of different intensities in twin TBM tunnels. First, the rockburst early warning effect of the two headrace tunnels of the Neelum–Jhelum hydropower station based on microseismic monitoring is analyzed. Second, based on highly accurate rockburst warning results, 94 rockburst risk control cases are applied to analyze the control effect of different control measures at different intensities of rockburst risk. Then, by combining factors such as the time cost and expense cost of different control measures, more reasonable control measures for different intensity rockburst risks are proposed: for slight rockburst risk, normal excavation is preferred; for moderate rockburst risk, horizontal destress boreholes are preferred; and for intense rockburst risk, a combination of measures of shortening daily advance and horizontal destress boreholes is preferred. The research results can provide a reference for other TBM excavation projects to carry out rockburst risk prevention and mitigation.
Microglial Responses to Stress-Induced Depression: Causes and Consequences
Authors: Afridi Ruqayya , Suk Kyoungho
Published: June 2023

Chronic stress is a major risk factor for various psychiatric diseases, including depression; it triggers various cellular and structural changes, resulting in the alteration of neurocircuitry and subsequent development of depression. Accumulating evidence suggests that microglial cells orchestrate stress-induced depression. Preclinical studies of stress-induced depression revealed microglial inflammatory activation in regions of the brain that regulate mood. Although studies have identified several molecules that trigger inflammatory responses in microglia, the pathways that regulate stress-induced microglial activation remain unclear. Understanding the exact triggers that induce microglial inflammatory activation can help find therapeutic targets in order to treat depression. In the current review, we summarize the recent literature on possible sources of microglial inflammatory activation in animal models of chronic stress-induced depression. In addition, we describe how microglial inflammatory signaling affects neuronal health and causes depressive-like behavior in animal models. Finally, we propose ways to target the microglial inflammatory cascade to treat depressive disorders.
In Situ Identification of Both IL-4 and IL-10 Cytokine–Receptor Interactions during Tissue Regeneration
Authors: Nikovics Krisztina , Favier Anne-Laure , Rocher Mathilde , Mayinga Céline , Gomez Johanna , Dufour-Gaume Frédérique , Riccobono Diane
Published: June 2023

Cytokines secreted by individual immune cells regulate tissue regeneration and allow communication between various cell types. Cytokines bind to cognate receptors and trigger the healing process. Determining the orchestration of cytokine interactions with their receptors on their cellular targets is essential to fully understanding the process of inflammation and tissue regeneration. To this end, we have investigated the interactions of Interleukin-4 cytokine (IL-4)/Interleukin-4 cytokine receptor (IL-4R) and Interleukin-10 cytokine (IL-10)/Interleukin-10 cytokine receptor (IL-10R) using in situ Proximity Ligation Assays in a regenerative model of skin, muscle and lung tissues in the mini-pig. The pattern of protein–protein interactions was distinct for the two cytokines. IL-4 bound predominantly to receptors on macrophages and endothelial cells around the blood vessels while the target cells of IL-10 were mainly receptors on muscle cells. Our results show that in situ studies of cytokine–receptor interactions can unravel the fine details of the mechanism of action of cytokines.
Intermittent Theta Burst Stimulation Improves Motor and Behavioral Dysfunction through Modulation of NMDA Receptor Subunit Composition in Experimental Model of Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Zeljkovic Jovanovic Milica , Stanojevic Jelena , Stevanovic Ivana , Stekic Andjela , Bolland Samuel J. , Jasnic Nebojsa , Ninkovic Milica , Zaric Kontic Marina , Ilic Tihomir V. , Rodger Jennifer , Nedeljkovic Nadezda , Dragic Milorad
Published: June 2023

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the progressive degeneration of the dopaminergic system, leading to a variety of motor and nonmotor symptoms. The currently available symptomatic therapy loses efficacy over time, indicating the need for new therapeutic approaches. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) has emerged as one of the potential candidates for PD therapy. Intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS), an excitatory protocol of rTMS, has been shown to be beneficial in several animal models of neurodegeneration, including PD. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of prolonged iTBS on motor performance and behavior and the possible association with changes in the NMDAR subunit composition in the 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA)-induced experimental model of PD. Two-month-old male Wistar rats were divided into four groups: controls, 6-OHDA rats, 6-OHDA + iTBS protocol (two times/day/three weeks) and the sham group. The therapeutic effect of iTBS was evaluated by examining motor coordination, balance, spontaneous forelimb use, exploratory behavior, anxiety-like, depressive/anhedonic-like behavior and short-term memory, histopathological changes and changes at the molecular level. We demonstrated the positive effects of iTBS at both motor and behavioral levels. In addition, the beneficial effects were reflected in reduced degeneration of dopaminergic neurons and a subsequent increase in the level of DA in the caudoputamen. Finally, iTBS altered protein expression and NMDAR subunit composition, suggesting a sustained effect. Applied early in the disease course, the iTBS protocol may be a promising candidate for early-stage PD therapy, affecting motor and nonmotor deficits.
Hepatoprotective Effects of Hyaluronic Acid-Preconditioned Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells against Liver Toxicity via the Inhibition of Apoptosis and the Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling Pathway
Authors: Awadalla Amira , Hamam Eman T. , Mostafa Sally Abdallah , Mahmoud Seham Ahmed , Elazab Khalid Mohamed , El Nakib Ahmed Mohamed , Eldesoqui Mamdouh , El-Sherbiny Mohamed , Ammar Omar A. , Al-Serwi Rasha Hamed , Saleh Mohamed A. , Sarhan Amira , Ali Mohamed
Published: June 2023

Background: Doxorubicin (DOX) is widely used to treat a variety of malignancies in both adults and children, including those of the bladder, breast, stomach, and ovaries. Despite this, it has been reported to cause hepatotoxicity. The recent discovery of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells’ (BMSCs) therapeutic effects in the context of liver diseases suggests that their administration plays a part in the mitigation and rehabilitation of drug-induced toxicities. Objectives: This study investigated whether bone BMSCs could reduce DOX-induced liver damage by blocking the Wnt/β-catenin pathway that causes fibrotic liver. Materials and methods: BMSCs were isolated and treated with hyaluronic acid (HA) for 14 days before injection. Thirty-five mature male SD rats were categorized into four groups; group one (control) rats were supplemented with saline 0.9% for 28 days, group two (DOX) rats were injected with DOX (20 mg/kg), group three (DOX + BMSCs) rats were injected with 2 × 106 BMSCs after 4 days of DOX injection, group four (DOX + BMSCs + HA) rats were injected with 0.1 mL BMSCs pretreated with HA after 4 days of DOX. After 28 days the rats were sacrificed, and blood and liver tissue samples were subjected to biochemical and molecular analysis. Morphological and immunohistochemical observations were also carried out. Results: In terms of liver function and antioxidant findings, cells treated with HA showed considerable improvement compared to the DOX group (p < 0.05). Moreover, the expression of inflammatory markers (TGFβ1, iNos), apoptotic markers (Bax, Bcl2), cell tracking markers (SDF1α), fibrotic markers (β-catenin, Wnt7b, FN1, VEGF, and Col-1), and ROS markers (Nrf2, HO-1) was improved in BMSCs conditioned with HA in contrast to BMSCs alone (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Our findings proved that BMSCs treated with HA exert their paracrine therapeutic effects via their secretome, suggesting that cell-based regenerative therapies conditioned with HA may be a viable alternative to reduce hepatotoxicity.
Association of Dental Fluorosis and Urinary Fluoride with Intelligence among Schoolchildren
Authors: Lin Yuh-Yih , Hsu Wen-Yu , Yen Chin-En , Hu Suh-Woan
Published: June 2023

Fluoride is present naturally in water and has been used worldwide for the prevention of caries. Several studies conducted in high water fluoride or endemic fluorosis areas reported that fluoride adversely affected children’s cognitive function, but some studies had negative findings. This study aimed to assess the relationship between urinary fluoride, dental fluorosis, and intelligence among schoolchildren living in communities with non-fluoridated drinking water. This cross-sectional study was conducted on 562 children aged 6–12 years in Taichung, Taiwan. Each child’s urinary fluoride level was determined by a fluoride-ion-selective electrode, and the dental fluorosis condition was evaluated according to the criteria of Dean’s Index. The Raven’s Colored Progressive Matrices-Parallel and Standard Progressive Matrices-Parallel were used to assess children’s intelligence. The results showed that the mean (±standard deviation) urinary fluoride concentrations were 0.40 ± 0.27 mg/L (0.43 ± 0.23 mg/g creatinine) among participants. The prevalence of dental fluorosis was 23.67%. After extensive evaluation of potential confounders, dental fluorosis and urinary fluoride were not associated with intelligence quotient (IQ) scores or grades in the regression models. In conclusion, dental fluorosis and urinary fluoride levels were not significantly related to the IQ of schoolchildren living in areas with low drinking water fluoride.
Nationwide Survey Reveals High Prevalence of Non-Swimmers among Children with Congenital Heart Defects
Authors: Apitz Christian , Tobias Dominik , Helm Paul , Bauer Ulrike , Niessner Claudia , Siaplaouras Jannos
Published: June 2023

Background: Physical activity is important for children with congenital heart defects (CHD), not only for somatic health, but also for neurologic, emotional, and psychosocial development. Swimming is a popular endurance sport which is in general suitable for most children with CHD. Since we have previously shown that children with CHD are less frequently physically active than their healthy peers, we hypothesized that the prevalence of non-swimmers is higher in CHD patients than in healthy children. Methods: To obtain representative data, we performed a nationwide survey in collaboration with the German National Register of Congenital Heart Defects (NRCHD) and the Institute for Sport Sciences of the Karlsruhe Institute for Technology (KIT). The questionnaire included questions capturing the prevalence of swimming skills and the timing of swim learning and was part of the “Motorik-Modul” (MoMo) from the German Health Interview and Examination Survey for Children and Adolescents (KiGGS). A representative age-matched subset of 4569 participants of the MoMo wave two study served as a healthy control group. Results: From 894 CHD-patients (mean age of 12.5 ± 3.1 years), the proportion of non-swimmers in children with CHD was significantly higher (16% versus 4.3%; p < 0.001) compared to healthy children and was dependent on CHD severity: Children with complex CHD had an almost five-fold increased risk (20.4%) of being unable to swim, whereas in children with simple CHD, the ability to swim did not differ significantly from their healthy reference group (5.6% vs. 4.3% non-swimmers (p = not significant). Conclusions: According to our results, one in five patients with complex CHD are non-swimmers, a situation that is concerning in regard of motoric development, inclusion and integration, as well as prevention of drowning accidents. Implementation of swim learning interventions for children with CHD would be a reasonable approach.
Molecular Detection of Nosema spp. in Three Eco Regions of Slovakia
Authors: Hurná Beáta , Sučik Monika , Staroň Martin , Tutka Štefan , Maková Zuzana , Galajda Richard , Valenčáková Alexandra
Published: June 2023

Microsporidia are unicellular obligate intracellular parasitic fungi that infect a wide range of vertebrates and invertebrates. There are two known species of microsporidia infecting honey bees in Slovakia- first Nosema apis and also Nosema ceranae. Our aim was to examine samples of honey bees collected from bee queen breeders in three ecoregions of the Slovak Republic in 2021 and 2022. First, microscopic diagnostics were used, and then randomly selected samples were examined using molecular methods. There were 4018 samples examined using microscopic diagnostics and the positivity was demonstrated in 922 samples. From the microscopically diagnosed positive samples, 507 samples were randomly selected, and using molecular methods, the positivity was proved in 488 samples. After sequencing the positive PCR products and comparing the sequences (BLAST) with the sequences stored in the gene bank, the Nosema ceranae species was detected in all positive samples.
How Can a Changing Climate Influence the Productivity of Traditional Olive Orchards? Regression Analysis Applied to a Local Case Study in Portugal
Authors: Silveira Carlos , Almeida Arlindo , Ribeiro António C.
Published: June 2023

Nowadays, the climate is undoubtedly one of the main threats to the sustainability of olive orchards, especially in the case of rainfed traditional production systems. Local warming, droughts, and extreme weather events are some of the climatological factors responsible for environmental thresholds in relation to crops being exceeded. The main objective of this study was to investigate the influence of microclimatic variability on the productivity of traditional olive orchards in a municipality located in northeastern Portugal. For this purpose, official data on climate, expressed through agro-bioclimatic indicators, and olive productivity for a 21-year historical period (2000–2020) were used to evaluate potential correlations. In addition, a comprehensive regression analysis involving the dataset and the following modeling scenarios was carried out to develop regression models and assess the resulting predictions: (a) Random Forest (RF) with selected features; (b) Ordinary Least-Squares (OLS) with selected features; (c) OLS with correlation features; and (d) OLS with all features. For the a and b scenarios, features were selected applying the Recursive Feature Elimination with Cross-Validation (RFECV) technique. The best statistical performance was achieved considering nonlinearity among variables (a scenario, R2 = 0.95); however, it was not possible to derive any model given the underlying methodology to this scenario. In linear regression applications, the best fit between model predictions and the real olive productivity was obtained when all the analyzed agro-bioclimatic indicators were included in the regression (d scenario, R2 = 0.85). When selecting only the most relevant indicators using RFECV and correlation techniques, moderate correlations for the b and c regression scenarios were obtained (R2 of 0.54 and 0.49, respectively). Based on the research findings, especially the regression models, their adaptability to other olive territories with similar agronomic and environmental characteristics is suggested for crop management and regulatory purposes.
Estimation of Oral Exposure of Dairy Cows to the Mycotoxin Deoxynivalenol (DON) through Toxin Residues in Blood and Other Physiological Matrices with a Special Focus on Sampling Size for Future Predictions
Authors: Dänicke Sven , Kersten Susanne , Billenkamp Fabian , Spilke Joachim , Starke Alexander , Saltzmann Janine
Published: June 2023

Evaluation of dairy cow exposure to DON can generally be managed through analyses of feed or physiological specimens for DON residues. The latter enables a diagnosis not only on an individual basis but also on a herd basis. For this purpose, on the basis of published data, linear regression equations were derived for blood, urine, milk, and bile relating DON residue levels as predictor variables to DON exposure. Amongst the matrices evaluated, blood was identified to reflect the inner exposure to DON most reliably on toxicokinetic backgrounds, which was supported by a linear relationship between DON residues in blood and DON exposure. On the basis of this, and because of extended blood data availability, the derived regressions were validated using internal and external data, demonstrating a reasonable concordance. For all matrices evaluated, the ultimately recommended linear regression equations intercepted the origin and enabled the prediction of the DON exposure to be expected within the prediction intervals. DON exposure (µg/kg body weight/d) can be predicted by multiplying the DON residues (ng/mL) in blood by 2.52, in urine by 0.022, and in milk by 2.47. The span of the prediction intervals varied according to the dispersion of the observations and, thus, also considered apparent outliers that were not removed from the datasets. The reasons were extensively discussed and included toxicokinetic aspects. In addition, the suggestions for sample size estimation for future characterization of the mean exposure level of a given herd size were influenced by expectable variation in the data. It was concluded that more data are required for all specimens to further qualify the preliminary prediction equations.
A 63-Year-Old Female Presenting to the Emergency Department with Massive Facial Swelling and Dyspnea
Authors: Gambichler Thilo , Schacht Rosanna , Noldes Kathrin , Boms Stefanie
Published: June 2023

A 63-year-old woman presented to the emergency department with acute dyspnea and progressive swelling of the face (Figure 1), neck, and upper trunk [...]
Dermatoscopic, Histological and Confocal Microscopic Analysis of a Kissing Nevus of the Penis
Authors: Bianchi Alexander , Baldi Alfonso , Farabini Andrea , Nibid Lorenzo , Roberti Vincenzo , Pellacani Giovanni , Kazakov Dmitry V. , Donati Michele
Published: June 2023

Kissing nevus is a congenital melanocytic neoplasm arising in those parts of the body that split at some point during embryological development (i.e., eyelid; penis), resulting in two adjacent melanocytic nevi. To date, 23 cases of kissing nevus of the penis have been described, and dermatoscopic and histological findings are available in 4/23 cases. We report a dermatoscopic, histological and confocal microscopic analysis in a new case of the kissing nevus of the penis in a 57 years old man. Dermatoscopic analysis showed large globules in the central area and a peripheral pigment network; the histological examination confirmed the presence of an intradermal melanocytic nevus with minimal junctional component and congenital features. Moreover, we reported, for the first time, confocal microscopy findings in the kissing nevus of the penis, revealing the presence of dendritic cells in correspondence with the epidermis and suggesting a state of cellular activity. Considering the clinicopathological features of the lesion, a conservative approach was adopted, and a clinical follow-up was planned after six months.
Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Gallbladder Drainage: Beyond Cholecystitis
Authors: Koutlas Nicholas J. , Pawa Swati , Russell Greg , Pawa Rishi
Published: June 2023

Endoscopic ultrasound-guided gallbladder drainage (EUS-GBD) is an alternative to surgery for acute cholecystitis (AC) in poor operative candidates. However, the role of EUS-GBD in non-cholecystitis (NC) indications has not been well studied. We compared the clinical outcomes of EUS-GBD for AC and NC indications. Consecutive patients undergoing EUS-GBD for all indications at a single center were retrospectively analyzed. Fifty-one patients underwent EUS-GBD during the study period. Thirty-nine (76%) patients had AC while 12 (24%) had NC indications. NC indications included malignant biliary obstruction (n = 8), symptomatic cholelithiasis (n = 1), gallstone pancreatitis (n = 1), choledocholithiasis (n = 1), and Mirizzi’s syndrome (n = 1). Technical success was noted in 92% (36/39) for AC and 92% (11/12) for NC (p > 0.99). The clinical success rate was 94% and 100%, respectively (p > 0.99). There were four adverse events in the AC group and 3 in the NC group (p = 0.33). Procedure duration (median 43 vs. 45 min, p = 0.37), post-procedure length of stay (median 3 vs. 3 days, p = 0.97), and total gallbladder-related procedures (median 2 vs. 2, p = 0.59) were similar. EUS-GBD for NC indications is similarly safe and effective as EUS-GBD in AC.
The Use of Zirconia for Implant-Supported Fixed Complete Dental Prostheses: A Narrative Review
Authors: Cinquini Chiara , Alfonsi Fortunato , Marchio Vincenzo , Gallo Francesco , Zingari Francesco , Bolzoni Alessandro Remigio , Romeggio Stefano , Barone Antonio
Published: June 2023

The success of implant-supported fixed complete dental prostheses (ISFCDPs) depends on multiple factors: some are related to the fixtures, such as fixture material, surface characteristics, positioning, and type of connection to prosthetic components; others are related to the prostheses, such as design and materials used. Zirconia is a material widely used in fixed prosthodontics, whether on natural teeth or on implants, with excellent results over time. Regarding the use of zirconia for ISFCDPs, the 2018 ITI Consensus Report stated that “implant-supported monolithic zirconia prostheses may be a future option with more supporting evidence”. Since CAD/CAM technology and zirconia are being continuously innovated to achieve better results and performances over time, a narrative review of the literature seems necessary to focus research efforts towards effective and durable solutions for implant-supported, full-arch rehabilitations. The objective of the present narrative review was to search the literature for studies regarding the clinical performance of zirconia-based ISFCDPs. According to the results of this review, the use of zirconia for ISFCDPs showed good clinical outcomes, with high survival rates ranging from 88% to 100% and prosthetic complications that were restorable by the clinicians in most cases.
Optimal Energy and Delay Tradeoff in UAV-Enabled Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Xie Jiapin , Fu Qiyong , Jia Riheng , Lin Feilong , Li Ming , Zheng Zhonglong
Published: June 2023

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are promising in large-area data collection due to their flexibility and easy maintenance. In this work, we study a UAV-enabled wireless sensor network (WSN), where K UAVs are dispatched to collect a certain amount of data from each node on the ground. Most existing works assume that the flight energy is either distance-related or duration-related, which may not suit the practical scenario. Given the practical speed-related flight energy model, we focus on deriving the optimal energy and delay tradeoff for the K UAVs such that each node can successfully upload a certain amount of data to one of the K UAVs. Intuitively, the higher flight speed of the UAV results in the shorter completion time of the data collection task, which may however cause the higher flight energy consumption of UAVs during the task. Specifically, we first model the total energy consumption of the UAV during the flight for collecting data within the WSN and then design the flight speed as well as the flight trajectory of each UAV for achieving different Pareto-optimal tradeoffs between the maximum single-UAV energy consumption among all UAVs and the task completion time. To achieve this goal, we propose a novel multi-objective ant colony optimization framework based on the adaptive coordinate method (MOACO-ACM). Firstly, the adaptive coordinate method is developed to decide the nodes visited by each of the K UAVs, respectively. Secondly, the ant colony algorithm is incorporated to optimize the visiting order of nodes for each UAV. Finally, we discuss the impact of UAVs’ speeds scheduling on the tradeoff between the task completion time and the maximum single-UAV energy consumption among all UAVs. Extensive simulations validate the effectiveness of our designed algorithm and further highlight the importance of UAVs’ flight speeds in achieving both energy-efficient and time-efficient data collection.
Ensuring Academic Integrity and Trust in Online Learning Environments: A Longitudinal Study of an AI-Centered Proctoring System in Tertiary Educational Institutions
Authors: Fidas Christos A. , Belk Marios , Constantinides Argyris , Portugal David , Martins Pedro , Pietron Anna Maria , Pitsillides Andreas , Avouris Nikolaos
Published: June 2023

The credibility of online examinations in Higher Education is hardened by numerous factors and use-case scenarios. This paper reports on a longitudinal study, that spanned over eighteen months, in which various stakeholders from three European Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) participated, aiming to identify core threat scenarios experienced during online examinations, and to, accordingly, propose threat models, data metrics and countermeasure features that HEI learning management systems can embrace to address the identified threat scenarios. We also report on a feasibility study of an open-source intelligent and continuous student identity management system, namely TRUSTID, which implements the identified data metrics and countermeasures. A user evaluation with HEI students (n = 133) revealed that the TRUSTID system is resilient and effective against impersonation attacks, based on intelligent face and voice identification mechanisms, and scored well in usability and user experience. Aspects concerning the preservation of privacy in storing, retrieving and processing sensitive personal data are also discussed.
A Quad-Band Shared-Aperture Antenna Based on Dual-Mode Composite Quarter-Mode SIW Cavity for 5G and 6G with MIMO Capability
Authors: Altakhaineh Amjaad T. , Alja’afreh Saqer S. , Almatarneh Aser M. , Almajali Eqab , Al-Tarawneh Luae , Yousaf Jawad
Published: June 2023

This study introduces a new design for an ultra-compact shared-aperture antenna utilizing a quarter-mode substrate integrated waveguide (QMSIW) cavity. The proposed antenna operates as a 4 × 4 multi-input multi-output (MIMO) system in three 5G/6G millimeter-wave (MMw) bands, while functioning as a single element antenna for a 5.5 GHz wireless fidelity Microwave (Mw) band. The antenna comprises four QMSIW cavity resonators; each QMSIW is loaded with dual slots to produce tri-band MMw operation at 28 GHz, 38 GHz, and 0.13 THz. The four cavities are arranged to reuse the entire aperture by creating a conventional open-loop antenna that operates at a frequency of 5.5 GHz. Simulation, measurement, and co-simulation results show that the proposed antenna has a quad-band operation and exhibits favorable characteristics. The measured scattering parameters validate the simulated ones over the four bands under consideration. The lowest values of the measured total radiation efficiencies are 80%, 73%, 62%, and 72% (co-simulation) within the four covered bands, respectively. The antenna peak gains are 1.8 to 1.85 dBi, 4.0 to 4.5 dBi, 4.3 to 4.5 dBi, and 6.5 to 6.6 dBi within the covered bands. Furthermore, the design satisfies MIMO and diversity conditions (envelope correlation coefficient and branch power ratio) over frequency bands of operation. All excellent results are achieved from an ultra-compact size in terms of footprint area (0.018λ02), where λ0 represents the free space wavelength at 5.5 GHz. The antenna boasts an excellent reuse aperture utilization efficiency (RAU) of 92% and a large ratio frequency of 23, making it an ideal candidate for compact devices. With its superior performance, the proposed design is well-suited for a range ofs wireless communication systems, including mobile devices and the Internet of Things.
Multi-Round Auction-Based Resource Allocation in Multi-Access Edge Computing Assisted Satellite Networks
Authors: Xie Wenyuan , Lin Liming , Lyu Ting , Xu Haitao
Published: June 2023

In this paper, we study the resource allocation problem of multi-access edge computing (MEC) assisted satellite networks in ocean areas. Considering the demand heterogeneity of users and the limited resources of satellites, we propose an online multi-round auction-based resource allocation (OMARA) approach for resource trading between satellites and users, where satellites are the resource sellers and users are the related resource buyers. The proposed approach can effectively determine the price for the trading of resources and can match the service relationships accordingly between satellites and ground users. Finally, it is shown by the simulation experimental results that the proposed approach outperforms the other existing algorithms in maximizing service satisfaction.
Optimal Deployment in Moving Target Defense against Coordinated Cyber–Physical Attacks via Game Theory
Authors: Yu Jian , Li Qiang
Published: June 2023

This work proposes a method for the intelligent deployment of distributed flexible AC transmission system (D-FACTS) devices. In recent years, in the field of moving target defense (MTD) strategies to detect coordinated cyber–physical attacks (CCPAs), establishing how to deploy D-FACTS devices has become an important research point. Although some research results have been proposed, the obtained deployment solutions are unintelligent due to not carefully considering smart attackers’ behaviors. A method for achieving the intelligent deployment of D-FACTS devices is proposed in this paper. First, the basic concept of corrupting CCPAs is summarized; second, based on considering practical constraints and the basic concept, a protected transmission line set is confirmed; and third, a zero-sum game model is formulated, and a robust Nash equilibrium solution is computed. Due to the game’s characteristics, this solution reflects the smart attackers’ sense of action. Relying on the solution, those lines that are most likely to be tripped form a new protected transmission line set. Finally, a comprehensive algorithm using a metric proposed in previous studies is proposed for finding an intelligent solution for the deployment of D-FACTS devices. We validated our results through extensive simulations using IEEE 14-bus, 30-bus, and 118-bus power systems provided by MATPOWER and the real-world load profiles from New York State. Our work, in tracking the targets that attackers are most likely to attack, opens up new ideas for the intelligent deployment of D-FACTS devices.
Diesel Governor Tuning for Isolated Hybrid Power Systems
Authors: Asad Muhammad , Martinez Sergio , Sanchez-Fernandez Jose Angel
Published: June 2023

In recent decades, renewable energy sources, such as wind power, have extraordinarily increased their participation in the energy mix throughout the world. This progression has played an important role in lowering the usage of fossil fuels. In addition, it has reduced environmental hazards and increased the emergence of hybrid power systems, mainly in remote areas. In some of these areas, diesel power plants were the only previous source of energy. Irrespective of the benefits, hybrid power systems might face problems such as frequency deviations. To contribute to reducing these problems, this paper presents a methodology to tune diesel engine governors using the Student Psychology-Based Algorithm. This proposed methodology enhances some metrics of controller performance, such as the integral square error, integral absolute error, and number of sign changes in the frequency derivative. This approach has been tested against different perturbations (step, ramp and random). To validate the effectiveness of the proposed approach, it has been simulated in relation to the San Cristobal Island (Ecuador) hybrid wind–diesel power system. The simulation results show that the governor tuned with the proposed approach provides a better system response.
Deep Clustering by Graph Attention Contrastive Learning
Authors: Liu Ming , Liu Cong , Fu Xiaoyuan , Wang Jing , Li Jiankun , Qi Qi , Liao Jianxin
Published: June 2023

Contrastive learning shows great potential in deep clustering. It uses constructed pairs to discover the feature distribution that is required for the clustering task. In addition to conventional augmented pairs, recent methods have introduced more methods of creating highly confident pairs, such as nearest neighbors, to provide more semantic prior knowledge. However, existing works only use partial pairwise similarities to construct semantic pairs locally without capturing the entire sample’s relationships from a global perspective. In this paper, we propose a novel clustering framework called graph attention contrastive learning (GACL) to aggregate more semantic information. To this end, GACL is designed to simultaneously perform instance-level and graph-level contrast. Specifically, with its novel graph attention mechanism, our model explores more undiscovered pairs and selectively focuses on informative pairs. To ensure local and global clustering consistency, we jointly use the designed graph-level and instance-level contrastive losses. Experiments on six challenging image benchmarks demonstrate the superiority of our proposed approach over state-of-the-art methods.
Research of a Fiber Sensor Based on Fiber Bragg Grating for Road Surface Monitoring
Authors: Kashaganova Gulzhan , Kozbakova Ainur , Kartbayev Timur , Balbayev Gani , Togzhanova Kulzhan , Alimseitova Zhuldyz , Orazaliyeva Sandugash
Published: June 2023

Road infrastructure is a key public asset because it benefits the social and economic development of any country. It plays an important role in the development of the industrial complex and the production sector, and the surfaces of transport roads should be of high quality and have a long service life. Road infrastructure, like all infrastructure, requires preservation, maintenance and repair. There are special requirements for roadways that must be observed during construction or repair. The uncertainty of the composition, temperature sensitivity and viscoelastic characteristics of road materials make the structural analysis of pavement very difficult compared to other civil structures, such as bridges, tunnels and buildings. For this reason, the question of how to improve fiber sensors based on fiber Bragg grating (FBG) arose. The novelty of this study is to modernize fiber sensors based on FBG so that they display deformation, stress and displacement, temperature and other parameters with much greater accuracy, which would provide a reliable scientific basis for modifying the theory, as well as the use of a fiber sensor based on FBG for simultaneous measurement of deformation and temperature when monitoring the road surface. This article is devoted to a detailed study of the use of fiber-optic sensors (FOS) based on fiber Bragg grating for road surface monitoring. Such a fiber sensor, consisting of a fiber Bragg grating and a pair of grids, can offer the possibility of simultaneous measurement of deformation and temperature for monitoring the pavement. Temperature and deformation measurements were carried out by installing a sensor on the surface of a made asphalt sample. The built-in fiber sensor based on FBG provides important information about how the pavement structure can withstand the load and subsidence of soil and implement road safety and stability measures in a timely manner to evaluate and predict the service life of the pavement. The results of the study showed that the synchronicity, repeatability and linearity of the characteristics of the fiber sensor are excellent. The difference between the experimental and theoretical results was about 7%. Thus, based on the results of the obtained data, the fiber sensor on the FBG can be used for monitoring and designing road surfaces and in general transport infrastructure.