bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Linking GERD and the Peptide Bombesin: A New Therapeutic Strategy to Modulate Inflammatory, Oxidative Stress and Clinical Biochemistry Parameters
Authors: Ardizzone Alessio , Scuderi Sarah Adriana , Crupi Lelio , Campolo Michela , Paterniti Irene , Capra Anna Paola , Esposito Emanuela
Published: August 2024

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) represents one of the most prevalent foregut illnesses, affecting a large portion of individuals worldwide. Recent research has shown that inflammatory mediators such as cytokines, chemokines, and enzymes are crucial for causing esophageal mucosa alterations in GERD patients. It seems likely that the expression of various cytokines in the esophageal mucosa also induces oxidative stress by increasing the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS). As humoral agents and peptidergic neurotransmitters that may support the enterogastric axis, bombesin and its related bombesin-like peptide, GRP (gastrin releasing peptide), have not been fully investigated. Therefore, considering all these assumptions, this study aimed to evaluate the influence of bombesin in reestablishing biochemical markers linked with inflammation and oxidative/nitrosative stress in GERD pathological settings. C57BL/6 mice were alternatively overfed and fasted for 56 days to induce GERD and then treated with bombesin (0.1, 0.5, and 1 mg/kg intraperitoneally) once daily for 7 days, and omeprazole was used as the positive control. After 7 days of treatment, gastric pain and inflammatory markers were evaluated. Abdominal pain was significantly reduced following bombesin administration, which was also successful in diminishing inflammatory and oxidative/nitrosative stress markers in a manner overlapping with omeprazole. Moreover, bombesin was also able to appreciably modulate gastric pH as a result of the restoration of gastric homeostasis. Overall, these observations indicated that the upregulation of bombesin and interconnected peptides is a promising alternative approach to treat GERD patients.
Moderating Effects of Visual Order in Graphical Symbol Complexity: The Practical Implications for Design
Authors: Zhang Nuowen , Zhang Jing , Jiang Shangsong , Di Xingcheng , Li Weijun
Published: August 2024

In the field of visual graphic design, complexity plays a crucial role in visual information processing, and it is assumed to be an absolute quantity based on the number of the presenting features and components. However, it remains unclear whether the visual order of the constituent elements in graphical symbol complexity affects cognitive processing, especially memory processing. Our research innovatively generated four groups of novel, meaningless graphical symbols (complex and ordered, complex and disordered, simple and ordered, and simple and disordered) and experimentally manipulated the level of complexity and order in these stimuli. Before the formal experiment, a five-point scale was used to further rule out differences between objective and subjective definitions of these graphical symbols on ratings of complexity, order, concreteness, and familiarity. Then, we used a cue-recall task to compare subjects’ memory performance of those four graphical symbol groups. The analytical results showed a significant interaction between visual order and graphical symbol complexity, with the complexity effect appearing only when the stimuli were in disordered condition and disappearing once the stimuli were ordered. In addition, this study conducted a practical application validation to confirm that increasing the level of visual order is an effective way to improve user experience while maintaining the same level of complexity. The findings can serve as a reference for graphical symbol design, graphic design, and visual communication design.
Identification of Pasture Degradation Using Remote Sensing Data and Machine Learning: A Case Study of Obichnik
Authors: Evstatiev Boris , Valova Irena , Kaneva Tsvetelina , Valov Nikolay , Sevov Atanas , Stanchev Georgi , Komitov Georgi , Zhelyazkova Tsenka , Gerdzhikova Mariya , Todorova Mima , Grozeva Neli , Saliev Durhan , Damyanov Iliyan
Published: August 2024

The degradation of pastures and meadows is a global problem with a wide range of impacts. It affects farmers in different ways, such as decreases in cattle production, milk yield, and forage quality. Still, it also has other side effects, such as loss of biodiversity, loss of resources, etc. In this study, the degradation of a semi-natural pasture near the village of Obichnik, Bulgaria, was evaluated using machine learning algorithms, and an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) obtained visual spectrum images. A high-quality (HQ) orthomosaic of the area was created and numerous regions of interest were manually marked for training and validation purposes. Three machine learning algorithms were used—Maximum likelihood, Random trees (RT), and Support Vector Machine (SVM). Furthermore, object-based and pixel-based approaches were utilized. The obtained results indicate that the object-based RT and SVM models provide significantly better accuracy, with their Cohen’s Kappa reaching 0.86 and 0.82, respectively. The performed classification showed that approximately 61% of the investigated pasture area is covered with grass, which indicates light-to-medium degradation.
Discharge Electrode Degradation in Dry Electrostatic Precipitator Cleaning of Exhaust Gases from Industrial Solid Waste Incinerators
Authors: Czech Tadeusz , Marchewicz Artur , Sobczyk Arkadiusz Tomasz , Krupa Andrzej , Gazda Maria , Jaworek Anatol
Published: August 2024

The electrodes of industrial electrostatic precipitators degrade as a result of two phenomena: corrosion and erosion. The first is chemical degradation by highly reactive compounds formed during combustion, in particular, during the incineration of municipal or industrial wastes or high-sulfur coal. The degradation intensity of electrostatic precipitator electrodes depends on the chemical composition of the exhaust gasses. High concentrations of chlorides, fluorides, or sulfur in the exhaust gasses cause strong corrosion of the electrostatic precipitator elements. The second mechanism is the erosion caused by solid particles conveyed by the exhaust gas stream due to their collision with the electrodes. In this study, the analysis of the degradation of electrodes of an electrostatic precipitator downstream of an industrial waste incinerator was carried out. The industrial wastes of unknown sources were subjected to thermal degradation in a rotary kiln. The aim of this study was to provide fundamental knowledge about the mechanisms of electrode degradation located on the surface of discharge electrodes of electrostatic precipitators during the combustion of industrial wastes.
A Robust High-Dimensional Test for Two-Sample Comparisons
Authors: Bulut Hasan , Iftikhar Soofia , Faiz Nosheen , Albalawi Olayan
Published: August 2024

The Hotelling T2 statistic is used to compare the mean vectors of two independent multivariate Gaussian distributions. Nevertheless, this statistic is highly sensitive to outliers and is not suitable for high-dimensional datasets where the number of variables exceeds the sample size. This study introduces a robust permutation test based on the minimum regularized covariance determinant (MRCD) estimator to address these limitations of the two-sample Hotelling T2 statistic. Simulation studies were performed to evaluate the proposed test’s empirical size, power, and robustness. Additionally, the test was applied to both uncontaminated and contaminated Alzheimer’s Disease datasets. The findings from the simulations and real data examples provide clues that the proposed test can be effectively used with high-dimensional data without being impacted by outliers. Finally, an R function within the “MVTests” package was developed to implement the proposed test statistic on real-world data.
Inositol Hexaphosphate in Bone Health and Disease
Authors: Yoshiko Yuji , Vucenik Ivana
Published: August 2024

Dietary phytic acid/phytate/myo-inositol hexaphosphate (IP6), a phosphate reservoir in plants, was viewed as antinutrient, caused by an influence on the bioavailability of minerals through its chelating activity. However, there is a growing body of evidence indicating that IP6 has beneficial (e.g., antiinflammatory, antibacterial, and anticancer) effects on multiple biological processes. Also, IP6 and its metabolites are known to exist in mammalian cells, including human cells, and the role of IP6 as a functional molecule is attracting attention. IP6 can bind to the growth sites of hydroxy-apatite (HA) and calcium oxalate crystals to prevent their growth and hence inhibit pathological calcification. SNF472, hexasodium IP6, is currently being evaluated in clinical studies as a treatment for vascular calcification and calciphylaxis. However, since HA crystal growth within bone matrix is an essential process in bone formation, it is possible that IP6 intake may inhibit physiological mineralization and bone formation, although currently more published studies suggest that IP6 may contribute to bone health rather than inhibit bone formation. Given that IP6 and its metabolites are thought to have diverse activities and many health benefits, it remains important to consider the range of effects of IP6 on bone.
Reduced Levels of Neurosteroids in Cerebrospinal Fluid of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Patients
Authors: Lucchi Chiara , Simonini Cecilia , Rustichelli Cecilia , Avallone Rossella , Zucchi Elisabetta , Martinelli Ilaria , Biagini Giuseppe , Mandrioli Jessica
Published: August 2024

Produced by the mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum, neurosteroids such as allopregnanolone are neuroprotective molecules that influence various neuronal functions and regulate neuroinflammation. They are reduced in neurodegenerative diseases, while in the Wobbler mouse model, allopregnanolone and its precursor progesterone showed protective effects on motor neuron degeneration. This single-center case-control study included 37 patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and 28 healthy controls. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) neurosteroid levels were quantified using liquid chromatography–electrospray tandem mass spectrometry and compared between the two cohorts. Neurosteroid concentrations have been correlated with neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration biomarkers detected through an automated immunoassay, along with disease features and progression. Pregnenolone, progesterone, allopregnanolone, pregnanolone, and testosterone levels were significantly lower in ALS patients’ CSF compared to healthy controls. A significant inverse correlation was found between neurofilament and neurosteroid levels. Neurosteroid concentrations did not correlate with disease progression, phenotype, genotype, or survival prediction. Our study suggests the independence of the disease features and its progression, from the dysregulation of neurosteroids in ALS patients’ CSF. This neurosteroid reduction may relate to disease pathogenesis or be a consequence of disease-related processes, warranting further research. The inverse correlation between neurosteroids and neurofilament levels may indicate a failure of compensatory neuroprotective mechanisms against neurodegeneration.
Long Neuro-COVID-19: Current Mechanistic Views and Therapeutic Perspectives
Authors: Slama Schwok Anny , Henri Julien
Published: August 2024

Long-lasting COVID-19 (long COVID) diseases constitute a real life-changing burden for many patients around the globe and, overall, can be considered societal and economic issues. They include a variety of symptoms, such as fatigue, loss of smell (anosmia), and neurological–cognitive sequelae, such as memory loss, anxiety, brain fog, acute encephalitis, and stroke, collectively called long neuro-COVID-19 (long neuro-COVID). They also include cardiopulmonary sequelae, such as myocardial infarction, pulmonary damage, fibrosis, gastrointestinal dysregulation, renal failure, and vascular endothelial dysregulation, and the onset of new diabetes, with each symptom usually being treated individually. The main unmet challenge is to understand the mechanisms of the pathophysiologic sequelae, in particular the neurological symptoms. This mini-review presents the main mechanistic hypotheses considered to explain the multiple long neuro-COVID symptoms, namely immune dysregulation and prolonged inflammation, persistent viral reservoirs, vascular and endothelial dysfunction, and the disruption of the neurotransmitter signaling along various paths. We suggest that the nucleoprotein N of SARS-CoV-2 constitutes a “hub” between the virus and the host inflammation, immunity, and neurotransmission.
Preoperative Cortical Mapping for Brain Tumor Surgery Using Navigated Transcranial Stimulation: Analysis of Accuracy
Authors: Paiva Wellingson Silva , Fonoff Erich Talamoni , dos Santos Silva Rhuann Pontes , Schiavao Lucas , Brunoni André Russowsky , de Almeida César Cimonari , Júnior Carlos Carlotti
Published: August 2024

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) represents a distinctive technique for non-invasive brain stimulation. Recent advancements in image processing have enabled the enhancement of TMS by integrating magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) modalities with TMS via a neuronavigation system. The aim of this study is to assess the efficacy of navigated TMS for cortical mapping in comparison to surgical mapping using direct electrical stimulation (DES). This study involved 30 neurosurgical procedures for tumors located in or adjacent to the precentral gyrus. The DES points were compared with TMS responses based on the original distances of vectorial modules. There was a notable similarity in the points obtained from the two mapping methods. The distances between the geometric centers of TMS and DCS were 4.85 ± 1.89 mm. A strong correlation was identified between these vectorial points (r = 0.901, p < 0.001). The motor threshold in TMS was highest in the motor cortex adjacent to the tumor compared to the normal cortex (p < 0.001). Patients with deficits exhibited excellent accuracy in both methods. In view of this, TMS demonstrated reliable and precise application in brain mapping, which is a promising method for preoperative functional mapping in motor cortex tumor surgery.
Support from Social Media during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review
Authors: Szeto Stephanie , Au Algae Kit Yee , Cheng Sophie Kai Lam
Published: August 2024

The social distancing measures in response to the COVID-19 pandemic have transformed people from social to isolated individuals. During that time, social media became a useful tool for satisfying people’s need for social interaction. Previous systematic reviews, however, have focused largely on the negative impact of social media use and ignored the positive side. Hence, this systematic review examined the role of social media use in providing support—be it social, emotional or informational—during the pandemic. Four databases were systematically searched, and the selection procedure followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Protocol registration: PROSPERO (CRD42022367903). A total of 20 papers were deemed eligible for data extraction. The findings showed that active engagement on social media contributed significantly to maintaining social capital and collective resilience amidst social restrictions. The emotional support obtained from social media was proven effective in alleviating feelings of loneliness and isolation. Also, social media facilitated the rapid dissemination of information and the grassroots mobilization of support by overcoming bureaucratic hurdles and addressing urgent community needs. This review concluded by highlighting the transformative potential of social media in crisis contexts and suggesting implications for mental health interventions and community resilience strategies.
Drying of a Clayey Ceramic Flat Plate: Simulation Studies Using the Galerkin-Based Integral Method
Authors: Santos Ivonete B. , Delgado João M. P. Q. , Luiz Márcia R. , Gomez Ricardo S. , Lima Antonio G. B. , Pinheiro Larissa S. S. , Silva Elaine J. C. , Santos Luis E. A. , Brito Glauco R. F. , Lima Wagner C. P. B. , Rafael Norton L. T.
Published: August 2024

The ceramics sector is crucial to the global economy. This research is devoted to studying the drying process of ceramic parts with arbitrary shapes based on Fick’s second law of diffusion and energy conservation. Herein, the mathematical procedure to obtain the exact solutions of the model equations using the Galerkin-based integral method is provided. In the mathematical modeling are considered constant properties and equilibrium conditions at the surface of the material. Emphasis is given to clay ceramic flat plate. Analytical results of the average moisture content, local temperature, and moisture content and temperature fields within the ceramic parts are presented, followed by an in-depth discussion.
Upper Bound Limit Analysis of Deep Tunnel Face Support Pressure with Nonlinear Failure Criterion under Pore Water Conditions
Authors: Yang Zihan , Li Yongxin , Xu Jingshu
Published: August 2024

Based on the nonlinear failure criterion and modified tangential technique, the upper bound solutions of the critical supporting pressure on the deep tunnel face were obtained under pore water pressure conditions. The influence of parameters on the critical supporting pressure and collapse range was investigated according to the unlimited block failure mechanism. It was found that the upper bound solutions of the critical supporting pressure increase with the growth of the nonlinear coefficient and pore water pressure coefficient. The collapse range of the tunnel face scales out with the increase in the nonlinear coefficient and shrinks with an increasing pore water pressure coefficient. Moreover, with the increase in the nonlinear coefficient, the impact strength on critical supporting pressure and collapse range declines gradually. According to the calculated results, both the pore water pressure and nonlinear criterion factors have negative impacts on the stability of the tunnel face. Thus, more attention should be paid to these parameters to ensure face stability in deep tunnel construction.
IDA-Based Seismic Fragility Analysis of a Concrete-Filled Square Tubular Frame
Authors: Liu Xiaoqiang , Xu Chengxiang
Published: August 2024

Based on the incremental dynamic analysis (IDA) method, this paper conducts seismic fragility analysis of a CFST plane frame, a CFST spatial frame under 1D (one-dimensional) ground motions, and a CFST spatial frame under 2D (two-dimensional) ground motions, with different attacking angles. Firstly, nine-story, three-span CFST frame structures (including the plane frame and spatial frame) were modeled in OpenSees, based on the accurate simulation of the hysteresis performance of the test CFST frames. Then, twenty-five groups of ground motions were employed to analyze the seismic response. Lastly, the IDA curve clusters, probabilistic demand models, and seismic fragility curves of frame structures were researched, respectively. The analytical results showed that the exceeding probability of the spatial frame under 2D ground motions was successively greater than that under 1D ground motions, and greater than the plane frame, and the maximum difference at each performance level was up to 6% and 16%, respectively. The fragility analysis result of the spatial frame was sensitive to the attacking angle of ground motion, and the exceeding probability of the 135°, 150°, and 165° fragility curves was larger than that of the 0° (original attacking angle) fragility curve at each performance level. The research results provide a reference for seismic fragility analysis of CFST frame structures employing the IDA method.
Using the Taguchi Method and Grey Relational Analysis to Optimize Ventilation Systems for Rural Outdoor Toilets in the Post-Pandemic Era
Authors: Sun Chang , Feng Lianyuan , Guo Meng , Ju Xiaolei
Published: August 2024

This study addresses the issue of poor air quality and thermal comfort in rural outdoor toilets by proposing a ventilation system powered by a building-applied photovoltaic (BAPV) roof. A numerical model is established and validated through comparison with the literature and experimental data. Based on a consensus, four influential variables, namely, inlet position, outlet height, supply air temperature, and ventilation rate, are selected for optimization to achieve multiple objectives: reduction in ammonia concentration, a predicted mean vote (PMV) value of 0, minimization of age of air, and energy consumption. The present study represents a pioneering effort in integrating the Taguchi method, computational fluid dynamics (CFD), and grey relational analysis to concurrently optimize the influential variables for outdoor toilet ventilation systems through design and simulation. The results indicate that all four variables exhibit nearly equal importance. Ventilation rate demonstrates a dominant effect on ammonia concentration and significantly impacts the age of air and energy consumption, while supply air temperature noticeably influences PMV. The optimal scheme features an inlet at center top position, an outlet height of 0.2 m, a supply air temperature of 12 °C and a ventilation rate of 20 times/h. This scheme improves ammonia concentration by 18.9%, PMV by 6.8%, and age of air by 30.0% at a height of 0.5 m, while achieving respective improvements by 18.9%, 5.5%, and 22.2% at a height of 1.5 m. The BAPV roof system generates an annual electricity output of 582.02 kWh, which covers the energy consumption of 358.1 kWh for toilet ventilation, achieving self-sufficiency. This study aims to develop a zero-carbon solution for outdoor toilets that provides a safe, comfortable, and sanitary environment.
Sex Difference in Disease-Related Adverse Events Post-Diagnosis of Lung Cancer Brain Metastases in Medicare Individuals ≥ 66 Years of Age
Authors: Dmukauskas Mantas , Cioffi Gino , Waite Kristin A. , Mammoser Aaron G. , Sloan Andrew E. , Ma Patrick C. , Barnholtz-Sloan Jill S.
Published: August 2024

Sex differences are evident in adverse events (AEs) related to brain tumors, yet sex differences in AEs specific to brain metastases (BrMs) are underexplored. Lung cancer BrMs dominate among BrM, comprising over half of cases. This study examined sex differences in AEs associated with lung cancer BrMs in individuals aged 66 or older using the SEER-Medicare dataset. Multivariable logistic regression, adjusted for demographic factors and comorbidities, stratified by histological subtype, treatment, age, and year of diagnosis were used to analyze AEs among those with BrMs from primary lung tumors. Year of diagnosis was grouped into prior/post-2013, to account for shifts in treatment paradigms. The results showed nuanced sex-specific AEs. Females diagnosed post-2013 with small-cell, squamous-cell, or other non-small-cell carcinoma BrMs had a higher headache likelihood than males. Males with adenocarcinoma post-2013 were more likely to experience brain herniation. Females aged 76 and older with small-cell BrM exhibited increased vision difficulty risk compared to males of the same age, with no significant difference in other age groups. Males treated for adenocarcinoma faced heightened hemorrhagic stroke risk. This study reveals sex-specific disparities in AEs among older individuals with lung cancer BrMs, varying by histological subtype, age, diagnosis year, and treatment.
Conservative Management of Vulvar Cancer—Where Should We Draw the Line?
Authors: Hacker Neville F. , Barlow Ellen L.
Published: August 2024

Vulvar cancer is a rare disease, and cure rates were low until the mid-20th century. The introduction of an en bloc radical vulvectomy and bilateral groin and pelvic lymph node dissection saw them rise from 15–20% to 60–70%. However, this very radical surgery was associated with high physical and psychological morbidity. Wounds were usually left open to granulate, and the average post-operative hospital stay was about 90 days. Many attempts have been made to decrease morbidity without compromising survival. Modifications that have proven to be successful are as follows: (i) the elimination of routine pelvic node dissection, (ii) the use of separate incisions for groin dissection, (iii) the use of unilateral groin dissection for lateral, unifocal lesions, (iv) and radical local excision with 1 cm surgical margins for unifocal lesions. Sentinel node biopsy with ultrasonic groin surveillance for patients with node-negative disease has been the most recent modification and is advocated for patients whose primary cancer is <4 cm in diameter. Controversy currently exists around the need for 1 cm surgical margins around all primary lesions and on the appropriate ultrasonic surveillance for patients with negative sentinel nodes.
Enhancing Understanding of Siloxane Surface Properties and Functional Group Effects on Water Deoxygenation
Authors: Sharif Fryad Mohammed , Murad Sohail , Manji Saif Talal
Published: August 2024

The deoxygenation process in water used in well injection operations is an important matter to eliminate corrosion in the petroleum industry. This study used molecular dynamics simulations to understand the behavior of siloxane surfaces by studying the surface properties with two functional groups attached to the end of siloxane and their effect on the deoxygenation process. The simulations were performed using LAMMPS to characterize surface properties. Jmol software version 14 was used to generate siloxane chains with (8, 20, and 35) repeat units. We evaluated properties such as total energy, surface tension, and viscosity. Then, we used siloxane as a membrane to compare the efficiency of deoxygenation for both types of functional groups. The results indicated that longer chain lengths increased the total energy and viscosity while decreasing surface tension. Replacing methyl groups with trifluoromethyl (CF3) groups increased all the above mentioned properties in varying proportions. Trifluoromethyl (CF3) groups showed better removal efficiency than methyl (CH3) groups but allowed more water to pass. Furthermore, the simulations were run using the class II potential developed by Sun, Rigby, and others within an explicit-atom (EA) model. This force field is universally applicable to the atomistic simulation of polymers, inorganic small molecules, and common organic molecules.
Thermal Performance of Lightweight Earth: From Prediction to Optimization through Multiscale Modeling
Authors: Rosa Latapie Séverine , Sabathier Vincent , Abou-Chakra Ariane
Published: August 2024

This study investigates the prediction of the thermal conductivity of lightweight earth and raw earth blocks incorporating plant aggregates. Given the high variability of raw materials, it is not currently possible to predict the thermal performance of this type of material before sample production. This is a major obstacle to using these eco-materials, although their use is widely encouraged to improve building performance under evolving regulatory frameworks such as The French RE2020 standard. The incorporation of plant aggregates into earth-based materials offers improved insulation properties without compromising their mechanical integrity, positioning them as promising sustainable alternatives. Mean-field homogenization techniques, including the Mori-Tanaka as well as double inclusion models, are used to develop predictive tools for thermal behavior, using rigorously selected experimental data. The selected methods are particularly relevant. The Mori-Tanaka model appears to be better suited when the proportion of aggregates is limited, whereas the double inclusion scheme proves its worth when a higher proportion of aggregates is incorporated. This study emphasizes the influence of aggregate types and processing methods on thermal conductivity, highlighting the need for precise formulation and processing techniques to optimize performance. This paper demonstrates the relevance of the applied homogenization techniques applied. It enables the real morphology of the materials studied, such as aggregate shape and intrinsic cracking, to be taken into account. It contributes to the advancement of eco-material modeling toward predictive digital twins, with the goal of simulating and optimizing complex material behavior under various environmental conditions.
Semiconductive Tendency of the Passive Film Formed on Super Austenitic Stainless Steel SR-50A in Acidic or Alkaline Chloride Solutions
Authors: Choi Seung-Heon , Yoo Young-Ran , Kim Young-Sik
Published: August 2024

Stainless steel is widely used in various industrial fields due to its excellent corrosion resistance and mechanical properties. The key to this corrosion resistance is the thin passive film that naturally forms on the metal surface. Passive films are characterized by oxide film theory and adsorption theory, each uniquely explaining the structure and mechanism of the protective film on the metal surface. Research on the semiconductive properties of passive films on stainless steel offers diverse viewpoints, classifying theories into the point defect model and the bipolar fixed charge-induced passivity. Specific changes in passive film attributes that lead to degradation, however, are not fully understood. In this study, we analyzed the inner and outer layers of the passive film on super austenitic stainless steel SR-50A under various conditions in acidic and alkaline chloride environments. The interpretations of these results were based on the point defect model and the bipolar model for the passivation mechanism, and correlations between p-type and n-type semiconductor properties and passivation behavior were examined. The surface of the stainless steel forms a passive film comprising two layers with p-type and n-type semiconductive properties, independent of the pH of the solutions. The corrosion resistance increases as the p-type and n-type semiconductive tendencies become more balanced, consequently enhancing the properties of the passive film.
Magnetic Resonance Elastography for Staging Liver Fibrosis in the Oncopig
Authors: Gaba Ron C. , Elkhadragy Lobna , Pennix Thomas , Schachtschneider Kyle M. , Bolt Courtni R. , Anderson Aaron , Majumdar Shreyan , Weber Denise , Whiteley Herbert E. , Regan Daniel P. , Schook Lawrence B. , Sutton Bradley P.
Published: August 2024

This pilot study investigated the feasibility of using magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) for the non-invasive detection and quantification of liver fibrosis in the Oncopig cancer model. Seven 8-week-old Oncopigs underwent alcoholic liver fibrosis induction and serial MRE imaging and liver biopsy at 1, 2, and 3 months post procedure. MRE was utilized to quantify liver stiffness, and liver fibrosis was histologically graded using the METAVIR system. The primary outcome measure was the capability to detect and quantify liver fibrosis using MRE with radiologic–pathologic correlation. Liver fibrosis induction, MRE imaging, and liver biopsy were successfully performed. MRE liver fibrosis was evident in 57% (4/7), 50% (3/6), and 40% (2/5) animal subjects 1, 2, and 3 months after fibrosis induction, with mean liver stiffness of 2.94, 3.25, and 2.91 kPa, respectively. Histological liver fibrosis was noted in 71% (5/7), 100% (5/5), and 100% (5/5) of animal subjects with available tissue samples. There was no significant statistical correlation between the MRE-measured liver stiffness and the METAVIR fibrosis scores. In conclusion, quantifiable liver fibrosis may be induced in the Oncopig. MRE has potential utility in non-invasively detecting liver stiffness in this large-animal preclinical model, though tissue biopsy was more sensitive in demonstrating disease.
Cardiovascular Disease Risk Stratification Using Hybrid Deep Learning Paradigm: First of Its Kind on Canadian Trial Data
Authors: Bhagawati Mrinalini , Paul Sudip , Mantella Laura , Johri Amer M. , Gupta Siddharth , Laird John R. , Singh Inder M. , Khanna Narendra N. , Al-Maini Mustafa , Isenovic Esma R. , Tiwari Ekta , Singh Rajesh , Nicolaides Andrew , Saba Luca , Anand Vinod , Suri Jasjit S.
Published: August 2024

Background: The risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) has traditionally been predicted via the assessment of carotid plaques. In the proposed study, AtheroEdge™ 3.0HDL (AtheroPoint™, Roseville, CA, USA) was designed to demonstrate how well the features obtained from carotid plaques determine the risk of CVD. We hypothesize that hybrid deep learning (HDL) will outperform unidirectional deep learning, bidirectional deep learning, and machine learning (ML) paradigms. Methodology: 500 people who had undergone targeted carotid B-mode ultrasonography and coronary angiography were included in the proposed study. ML feature selection was carried out using three different methods, namely principal component analysis (PCA) pooling, the chi-square test (CST), and the random forest regression (RFR) test. The unidirectional and bidirectional deep learning models were trained, and then six types of novel HDL-based models were designed for CVD risk stratification. The AtheroEdge™ 3.0HDL was scientifically validated using seen and unseen datasets while the reliability and statistical tests were conducted using CST along with p-value significance. The performance of AtheroEdge™ 3.0HDL was evaluated by measuring the p-value and area-under-the-curve for both seen and unseen data. Results: The HDL system showed an improvement of 30.20% (0.954 vs. 0.702) over the ML system using the seen datasets. The ML feature extraction analysis showed 70% of common features among all three methods. The generalization of AtheroEdge™ 3.0HDL showed less than 1% (p-value < 0.001) difference between seen and unseen data, complying with regulatory standards. Conclusions: The hypothesis for AtheroEdge™ 3.0HDL was scientifically validated, and the model was tested for reliability and stability and is further adaptable clinically.
Evaluation of General Anesthesia and Sedation and Follow-Up Compliance in Pediatric Dental Procedures: A Comprehensive Analysis of Long-Term Outcomes and Gender Differences
Authors: Sarapultseva Maria , Sarapultsev Alexey
Published: August 2024

This retrospective study evaluated the effectiveness of different types of general anesthesia (GA) and sedation in pediatric dental procedures, focusing on treatment outcomes and follow-up compliance with an emphasis on gender differences. Clinical records of 1582 pediatric patients, aged 0–18 years, were analyzed to examine the distribution, duration and impact of anesthesia types on dental procedure complexity. The study population was divided into three age groups: 0–6, 7–12 and 13–18 years. We assessed follow-up attendance rates by gender and anesthesia type, calculated the decayed, missing and filled (DMF) index and evaluated the need for further treatment and reasons for retreatment. Our findings indicated that general anesthesia with inhalational agents and muscle relaxants was the most frequently used method (1260 instances), followed by nitrous oxide sedation (163 instances) and sevoflurane GA with a laryngeal mask airway (158 instances). Inhalational GA with muscle relaxants had the longest average duration (2.78 h) and the highest DMF index (7.43), reflecting its use in more severe dental conditions. Gender analysis revealed a slight male predominance in using inhalational GA with muscle relaxants (55.87% male vs. 44.13% female). Female patients demonstrated higher follow-up compliance across all periods. Overall, our results highlight the importance of tailored anesthesia and sedation plans, as well as follow-up protocols, in pediatric dentistry. This study provides valuable insights for practitioners in selecting appropriate anesthesia and sedation types and developing strategies to improve follow-up compliance and treatment success.
User Mobility Modeling in Crowdsourcing Application to Prevent Inference Attacks
Authors: Yessoufou Farid , Sassi Salma , Chicha Elie , Chbeir Richard , Degila Jules
Published: August 2024

With the rise of the Internet of Things (IoT), mobile crowdsourcing has become a leading application, leveraging the ubiquitous presence of smartphone users to collect and process data. Spatial crowdsourcing, which assigns tasks based on users’ geographic locations, has proven to be particularly innovative. However, this trend raises significant privacy concerns, particularly regarding the precise geographic data required by these crowdsourcing platforms. Traditional methods, such as dummy locations, spatial cloaking, differential privacy, k-anonymity, and encryption, often fail to mitigate the risks associated with the continuous disclosure of location data. An unauthorized entity could access these data and infer personal information about individuals, such as their home address, workplace, religion, or political affiliations, thus constituting a privacy violation. In this paper, we propose a user mobility model designed to enhance location privacy protection by accurately identifying Points of Interest (POIs) and countering inference attacks. Our main contribution here focuses on user mobility modeling and the introduction of an advanced algorithm for precise POI identification. We evaluate our contributions using GPS data collected from 10 volunteers over a period of 3 months. The results show that our mobility model delivers significant performance and that our POI extraction algorithm outperforms existing approaches.
Fuzzy Adaptive Approaches for Robust Containment Control in Nonlinear Multi-Agent Systems under False Data Injection Attacks
Authors: Alsinai Ammar , Al-Shamiri Mohammed M. Ali , Ul Hassan Waqar , Rehman Saadia , Niazi Azmat Ullah Khan
Published: August 2024

This study addresses the problem of fractional-order nonlinear containment control of heterogeneous multi-agent systems within a leader–follower framework, focusing on the impact of False Data Injection (FDI) attacks. By employing adaptive mechanisms and fuzzy logic, the suggested method enhances system resilience, ensuring reliable coordination and stability even in the presence of deceptive disturbances. To deal with these uncertainties, our controller makes use of interval type-II (IT2) fuzzy sets, and we create matrix equalities and inequalities to account for the asymmetry of Laplace matrices. Also, we use the Lyapunov functions for the stability analysis of our system. Lastly, we explain the numerical simulations for the effectiveness of our theoretical results, and these simulated examples are used to verify the effectiveness of our approach and designed model.
Mexican Lacquer at the Victoria and Albert Museum: Analysis of Three Bateas
Authors: Risdonne Valentina , Geminiani Ludovico , Humphrey Nick , Melchar Dana , Burgio Lucia
Published: August 2024

This study investigates the materials and techniques used in three Mexican platters, or bateas, from the Victoria and Albert Museum collection. Our analytical approach included the use of non-invasive techniques, such as infrared reflectography, scanning X-ray fluorescence, and digital microscopy, which informed limited but targeted sampling. Traditional pigments were identified, including indigo, carbon black, red lead, lead white, and orpiment, and materials such as dolomite, gypsum, ochres, and clay were also found. A red organic dye was seen but could not be identified. The stratigraphy of the objects was also investigated. The condition of the objects was also evaluated, and the results will be used to inform future conservation decisions. The findings add to the published knowledge of the materials and techniques of early colonial Mexican objects and can be of use in future investigations, facilitating exchanges and collaborations focused on this type of objects, which are rare in UK collections.
Characteristics and Comparative Analysis of Six Mitogenomes of Genus Kiefferulus Goetghebuer, 1922 (Diptera: Chironomidae)
Authors: Zhang Dan , Jin Wei-Dong , Xu Hai-Feng , Li Xue-Bo , Jiang Yong-Wei , Li Dai-Qing , Lin Xiao-Long
Published: August 2024

Chironomidae is a cosmopolitan and species-rich family of insects, with many species serving as useful indicators of aquatic ecosystem health. In this study, we newly sequenced six species of Kiefferulus Goetghebuer, 1922 (Chironomidae: Chironominae) by high-throughput sequencing technology. We analyzed characters of the mitochondrial genome, including the sequence length, nucleotide composition, and evolutionary rates of this genus. The size of the newly obtained sequences ranged from 15,588 to 15,767 bp, and all of them included 22 tRNAs, 13 PCGs, 2 rRNAs, and 1 CR. The CR showed the highest AT content relative to the PCGs, rRNAs, and tRNAs. Relative synonymous codon usage analysis showed that UUA, UUU, and AUU are the preferred codons. The ratio of nonsynonymous (Ka) to synonymous (Ks) substitution rates showed that all Ka/Ks of PCGs were lower than 1, with ATP8 having the highest evolution rate, while COX1 exhibited the lowest evolution rate. We reconstructed the phylogenetic relationship of the genus Kiefferulus based on eight species (six ingroups and two outgroups), using five matrices and employing Maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference approaches. Phylogenetic analysis of the Kiefferulus showed that six species within this genus were classified into a monophyletic clade.
Sublethal Effects of Pyridaben on the Predatory Function of Neoseiulus womersleyi
Authors: Song Cancan , Li Chengcheng , Wei Juan , Zeng Hualan , Yang Qunfang , Jiang Surong , Jiang Chunxian , Li Qing
Published: August 2024

Pyridaben is a widely utilized, broad-spectrum contact acaricide, which has notable sublethal effects that impair the predatory capabilities of predatory mites, but the specific mechanisms that affect the predatory functions remain underexplored. When predatory mites hunt for prey, they may rely on Niemann–Pick-type C2 (NPC2) proteins to collect herbivore-induced plant volatiles (HIPVs) and other odor molecules to locate and pursue their prey. This study elucidated that pyridaben significantly diminished the predatory efficiency and searching behavior of the predatory mite Neoseiulus womersleyi. Key metrics, including predatory capacity (a/Th) and predation rate (a) on various developmental stages of Tetranychus urticae, were markedly reduced in treated mites compared to controls. The searching efficiency (S) also declined proportionally with the increased sublethal dose of pyridaben. A gene linked to olfactive functions, NwNPC2a, was cloned from N. womersleyi. Post-treatment with pyridaben at LC30 and LC50 concentrations resulted in a substantial downregulation of NwNPC2a expression by 60.15% and 58.63%, respectively. Silencing NwNPC2a in N. womersleyi females led to significant reductions in the attack rate (a), handling time (Th), predation efficiency (a/Th), and maximum predation rate (1/Th). The searching efficiency (S) was also lower than that of the control group, displaying a slight decline with the increasing prey density. The findings revealed that pyridaben exerted inhibitory effects on both the predatory function and searching efficiency of N. womersleyi populations. The decrease in predatory performance at LC30 and LC50 concentrations was attributable to the suppression of NwNPC2a gene expression. RNA interference (RNAi) studies corroborated that the NwNPC2a gene plays a critical role in the predation process of N. womersleyi. Thus, the underlying molecular mechanism through which pyridaben compromises the predatory function of N. womersleyi likely involves the downregulation of NwNPC2a expression.
The Role of hCG and Histamine in Emesis Gravidarum and Use of a Chewing Gum Containing Vitamin C as a Treatment Option: A Double-Blinded, Randomized, Controlled Trial
Authors: Foessleitner Philipp , Rager Lilly , Mikula Fanny , Hager Marlene , Granser Sonja , Haslacher Helmuth , Brugger Jonas , Farr Alex
Published: August 2024

Background: Nausea and vomiting in pregnancy (NVP), or emesis gravidarum, is a frequent complication of early gestation with unclear causes, suspected to involve genetic, hormonal, and gastrointestinal factors. Our study investigated the association of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), histamine, diamine oxidase (DAO), thyroxine and pyridoxine and the severity of NVP symptoms and assessed the efficacy of a vitamin C-containing chewing gum as a potential NVP treatment. Methods: In this prospective, double-blinded, randomized, controlled trial, 111 participants were assigned to receive vitamin C-containing chewing gum, placebo gum, or no treatment at two follow-ups during early pregnancy. Maternal serum levels of hCG, histamine, DAO, thyroxine, and pyridoxine were measured and correlated with NVP severity using the Pregnancy-Unique Quantification of Emesis and Nausea (PUQE-24) score. Results: Elevated maternal hCG levels were significantly associated with an increased PUQE-24 score (p < 0.001), while histamine levels showed no significant correlation (p = 0.68). Maternal DAO levels negatively correlated with NVP symptoms (p < 0.001) and elevated thyroxine (p < 0.001) and pyridoxine levels (p < 0.001) were associated with increased PUQE-24 scores. The vitamin C-containing chewing gum did not demonstrate efficacy in alleviating NVP symptoms compared to placebo gum or no treatment during the first (p = 0.62) and second follow-up visits (p = 0.87). Conclusions: Our study underscores the complexity of factors contributing to NVP, highlighting the significant roles of hCG and DAO, while histamine levels appear unrelated. Maternal thyroxine and pyridoxine levels also significantly correlate with NVP symptoms. Vitamin C-containing chewing gum was not effective as a treatment for NVP. Further large-scale studies are needed to better understand these interactions and develop targeted treatments in the future.
Early Clinical Experience of Finerenone in People with Chronic Kidney Disease and Type 2 Diabetes in Japan—A Multi-Cohort Study from the FOUNTAIN (FinerenOne mUltidatabase NeTwork for Evidence generAtIoN) Platform
Authors: Sato Atsuhisa , Rodriguez-Molina Daloha , Yoshikawa-Ryan Kanae , Yamashita Satoshi , Okami Suguru , Liu Fangfang , Farjat Alfredo , Oberprieler Nikolaus G. , Kovesdy Csaba P. , Kanasaki Keizo , Vizcaya David
Published: August 2024

Background: In the phase 3 clinical trials FIGARO-DKD and FIDELIO-DKD, finerenone reduced the risk of cardiovascular and kidney events among people with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and type 2 diabetes (T2D). Evidence regarding finerenone use in real-world settings is limited. Methods: A retrospective cohort study (NCT06278207) using two Japanese nationwide hospital-based databases provided by Medical Data Vision (MDV) and Real World Data Co., Ltd. (RWD Co., Kyoto Japan), converted to the OMOP common data model, was conducted. Persons with CKD and T2D initiating finerenone from 1 July 2021, to 30 August 2023, were included. Baseline characteristics were described. The occurrence of hyperkalemia after finerenone initiation was assessed. Results: 1029 new users of finerenone were included (967 from MDV and 62 from RWD Co.). Mean age was 69.5 and 72.4 years with 27.3% and 27.4% being female in the MDV and RWD Co. databases, respectively. Hypertension (92 and 95%), hyperlipidemia (59 and 71%), and congestive heart failure (60 and 66%) were commonly observed comorbidities. At baseline, 80% of persons were prescribed angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin-receptor blockers. Sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors and glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists were prescribed in 72% and 30% of the study population, respectively. The incidence proportions of hyperkalemia were 2.16 and 2.70 per 100 persons in the MDV and RWD Co. databases, respectively. There were no hospitalizations associated with hyperkalemia observed in either of the two datasets. Conclusions: For the first time, we report the largest current evidence on the clinical use of finerenone in real-world settings early after the drug authorization in Japan. This early evidence from clinical practice suggests that finerenone is used across comorbidities and comedications.