bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Patterns of Urban Sprawl and Agricultural Land Loss in Sub-Saharan Africa: The Cases of the Ugandan Cities of Kampala and Mbarara
Authors: Muchelo Ronald O. , Bishop Thomas F. A. , Ugbaje Sabastine U. , Akpa Stephen I. C.
Published: July 2024

Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) is undergoing rapid urbanization, yet research comparing urban expansion and agricultural land loss in peri-urban areas is scarce. This study utilizes multi-temporal Landsat imagery to examine the impact of urban growth on agricultural land and fragile ecosystems in Kampala (a mega city) and Mbarara (a regional urban center) in Uganda. We distinguish between random and systematic land-use and land-cover (LULC) transitions in the landscape. The results reveal substantial urban expansion. Kampala’s urban area surged from 7.14% in 1989 to 55.10% in 2015, while Mbarara increased from 6.37% in 2002 to 30.95% in 2016. Correspondingly, agricultural land decreased, from 48.02% to 16.69% in Kampala, and from 39.92% to 32.08% in Mbarara. Notably, a significant proportion of urban growth in both cities encroached upon agricultural land (66.7% in Kampala and 57.8% in Mbarara). The transition from agricultural to built-up areas accounted for 14.72% to 28.45% of the landscapes. Additionally, unsustainable practices led to the conversion of wetlands and forests to agricultural land, with approximately 13% of wetlands and 23% of Savannah and forests being converted between 2001 and 2015. These findings underscore the necessity of monitoring LULC changes for sustainable urban growth management, emphasizing the importance of preserving agricultural land and ecosystems to ensure present and future food security. This research contributes to the understanding of urbanization’s impact on peri-urban agricultural land and ecosystems in SSA, providing insights that are crucial for informed urban planning and policy formulation aimed at sustainable development in the region.
Spatial and Temporal Dynamics and Multi-Scenario Forecasting of Habitat Quality in Gansu–Qinghai Contiguous Region of the Upper Yellow River
Authors: Zhang Xuan , Tong Huali , Zhao Ling , Huang Enwei , Zhu Guofeng
Published: July 2024

Human activities exert a profound influence on land use and land cover, and these changes directly influence habitat quality and ecosystem functioning. In the Gansu–Qinghai contiguous region of the upper Yellow River, habitat quality has undergone substantial transformations in recent years due to the synergistic impacts of natural processes and human intervention. Therefore, evaluating the effects of land use changes on habitat quality is crucial for advancing regional sustainable development and improving the worth of ecosystem services. In response to these challenges, we devised a two-pronged approach: a land use simulation (FLUS) model and an integrated valuation of ecosystem services and trade-offs (InVEST) model, leveraging remote sensing data. This integrated methodology establishes a research framework for the evaluation and simulation of spatial and temporal variations in habitat quality. The results of the study show that, firstly, from 1980 to 2020, the habitat quality index in the Gansu–Qinghai contiguous region of the upper Yellow River decreased from 0.8528 to 0.8434. Secondly, our predictions anticipate a decrease in habitat quality, although the decline is not pronounced across all scenarios. The highest habitat quality values were projected under the EP (Ecology Priority) scenario, followed by the CLP (Cultivated Land Priority) scenario, while the BAU (Business as Usual) scenario consistently yielded the lowest values in all three scenarios. Finally, the ecological land, including forest land and grassland, consistently occupied areas characterized by high habitat quality. In contrast, Construction land consistently appeared in regions associated with low habitat quality. The implementation of conservation measures emerges as a crucial strategy, effectively limiting the expansion of construction land and promoting the augmentation of forest land and grassland cover. This approach serves to enhance overall habitat quality. These outcomes furnish a scientific foundation for the judicious formulation of future land-use policies and ecological protection measures.
Northern Pulmonary Hypertension: A Forgotten Kind of Pulmonary Circulation Pathology
Authors: Kosanovic Djuro , Avdeev Sergey N. , Milovanov Andrey P. , Chernyaev Andrey L.
Published: July 2024

Northern pulmonary hypertension (NPH) is a medical condition that is still enigmatic in non-Russian-speaking countries. The extant previous literature is mostly available in the Russian language and, therefore, not accessible to the rest of the world. The recent increased interest in climate changes and environmental effects on pulmonary circulation prompted us to summarize the knowledge from the past about the effects of cold on pulmonary vasculature. In this review, we, for the first time, describe, in detail, the pathological attributes of human NPH, a medical disorder that occurs in people living in extremely cold regions, in the English language. Briefly, NPH is characterized by the hyper-muscularization of the pulmonary arteries and de novo muscularization of the arterioles with the ultimate development of right ventricular hypertrophy. However, the profound molecular mechanisms of the NPH pathology are to be revealed in future comprehensive studies.
Transforming E-Commerce Logistics: Sustainable Practices through Autonomous Maritime and Last-Mile Transportation Solutions
Authors: Andrei Nistor , Scarlat Cezar , Ioanid Alexandra
Published: July 2024

The logistics landscape in e-commerce is undergoing a profound transformation toward sustainability and autonomy. This paper explores the implementation of autonomous maritime and last-mile transportation solutions to optimize the entire logistics chain from factory to customer. Building on the lessons learned from the maritime industry’s digital transformation, the study identifies key features and proposes a forward-looking autonomous maritime and last-mile transportation system. Emphasizing the role of geospatial technologies, the proposed system employs GIS-based electronic route optimization for efficient goods delivery, integrating onboard and ashore GIS-based sensors for enhanced location precision. A case study was built to analyze the implementation of autonomous means of transport along the route of a product from factory to customer. The integration of autonomous systems shows substantial improvements in logistics performance. Synchromodal logistics and smart steaming techniques can be utilized to optimize transportation routes, resulting in reduced fuel consumption and emissions. The findings reveal that autonomous maritime and last-mile transport systems can significantly enhance the efficiency, flexibility and sustainability of e-commerce logistics. The study emphasizes the need for advanced technological integration and provides a comprehensive framework for future research and practical applications in the logistics industry.
Numerical Simulations and Experimental Validation of Squeeze Film Dampers for Aircraft Jet Engines
Authors: Golek Markus , Gleichner Jakob , Chatzisavvas Ioannis , Kohlmann Lukas , Schmidt Marcus , Reinke Peter , Rienäcker Adrian
Published: July 2024

Squeeze film dampers are used to reduce vibration in aircraft jet engines supported by rolling element bearings. The underlying physics of the squeeze film dampers has been studied extensively over the past 50 years. However, the research on the SFDs is still ongoing due to the complexity of modeling of several effects such as fluid inertia and the modeling of the piston rings, which are often used to seal SFDs. In this work, a special experimental setup has been designed to validate the numerical models of SFDs. This experimental setup can be used with various SFD geometries (including piston ring seals) and simulate almost all conditions that may occur in an aircraft jet engine. This work also focuses on the inertia forces of the fluid. The hydrodynamic pressure distribution of a detailed 3D-CFD model is compared with the solution of the Reynolds equation including inertia effects. Finally, the simulation results are compared with experimental data and good agreement is observed.
Investigation on the Static Performance of Surface-Throttling Frictionless Pneumatic Cylinder through Finite Element Method
Authors: Xu Jingfeng , Gao Siyu , Qi Lizi , Gao Qiang , Zhu Min , Yang Hongbin , Li Yinze , Wei Wenyuan , Lu Lihua
Published: July 2024

The equilibrium system is essential for the high-precision movement of the ultra-precision vertical axis. However, the complex assembly process makes orifice-throttling frictionless cylinders difficult to manufacture and prone to air hammering. Surface-throttling frictionless pneumatic cylinders effectively avoid these problems. This paper establishes an improved finite element method (FEM) model of a novel surface-throttling frictionless pneumatic cylinder to investigate its static performance. Furthermore, the static equilibrium calculation of the dual-cylinder system is concerned. The radial bearing capacity and support force requirements for the surface-throttling aerostatic bearings are obtained. The outcomes provide theoretical guidance for optimizing cylinder parameters. It ensures that the ultimately optimized cylinder meets the requirements for radial bearing capacity and support force of the ultra-precision vertical axis while minimizing air consumption. Finally, the accuracy of the proposed method is verified through computational fluid dynamics (CFD) calculation and experiments.
Crystal Structure of Bis(1-butyl-1-methypyrrolidinium) Perthiodicarbonate Complex
Authors: Pinaud Noël , Danten Yann , Marchivie Mathieu , Besnard Marcel , Cabaço Isabel , Guillon Jean
Published: July 2024

Bis(1-butyl-1-methypyrrolidinium) perthiodicarbonate was obtained by the reaction of carbon disulfide with 1-butyl-1-methypyrrolidinium acetate ([BmPyrro][Ac]) in the liquid phase. Structural characterization of this original complex was achieved by single-crystal X-ray diffraction (SCXRD) analysis. The asymmetric unit of the title compound, C2S6·2C9H20N, consisted of two crystallographically 1-methyl-1-butyl pyrrolidinium cations and one perthiodicarbonate anion. The complex C2S6·2C9H20N crystallized in the monoclinic space group, C 2/c, and possessed the following cell parameters: a = 16.0970(10) Å, b = 14.7140(9) Å, c = 12.3280(8) Å, α = 90°, β = 112.3730(12)°, γ = 90°, V = 2700.11 Å3, and Z = 8, Z’ = 0.5.
(1R,3R,5S,Z)-2-Ethylidene-6,6-dimethyl-3-vinylbicyclo[3.1.1]-heptane
Authors: He Zhengjie , Donaldson William A.
Published: July 2024

(1R,3R,5S,Z)-2-ethylidene-6,6-dimethyl-3-vinylbicyclo[3.1.1]heptane was prepared by hydrovinylation of nopadiene catalyzed by a cationic Ru complex. The structure was fully characterized by 1H- and 13C-NMR spectroscopy, including 2D-COSY and 2D-NOESY spectra, optical rotation, and combustion analysis. In contrast to the previously reported 1,2-hydrovinylation of 1-vinylcycloalkenes by this catalyst, the reaction with nopadiene proceeds by 1,4-addition of ethylene.
Experimental Investigation and Numerical Analysis Regarding the Influence of Cutting Parameters on the Asphalt Milling Process
Authors: Petrescu Marius Gabriel , Dumitru Teodor , Laudacescu Eugen , Tănase Maria
Published: July 2024

Abrasion wear is a significant concern for cutting tools, particularly when milling asphalt concrete due to the presence of hard mineral aggregate particles. The pressure exerted on the cutting tool by the chipped material and the resulting cutting forces directly influence tool wear. To estimate the cutting forces in asphalt milling, the authors propose using either laboratory experiments or cost-effective Discrete Element Method (DEM) modeling—by simulating the real conditions—as direct measurement under real conditions is challenging. This article presents results from an original experimental program aimed at determining the cutting forces during asphalt pavement milling. A specialized stand equipped with a moving plate and recording devices was designed to vary milling depth, rotational speed, and advance speed. The experimental results for horizontal force values were compared with numerical results from DEM modeling. It was found that both increasing the milling depth and the advance speed lead to higher cutting forces. Generally, DEM modeling trends align with experimental results, although DEM values are generally higher. The statistical analysis allowed identification of the milling depth as the most significant parameter influencing cutting force and the optimal combination of milling parameters to achieve minimum horizontal force acting on cutting tooth, namely, 15 mm milling depth and 190 mm/min advanced speed.
Metal-Catalyzed Carbon Foams Synthesized from Glucose as Highly Efficient Electromagnetic Absorbers
Authors: Liu Guan-Hong , Wei Chuan-Ying , Huang Ting , Wang Fei , Chang Jiang-Fan , Sun Qian , Zhang Xian-Hui
Published: July 2024

This paper introduces a novel method for preparing high-performance, metal-containing carbon foam wave-absorbing materials. The process involves foaming glucose through catalysis by transition metals followed by high-temperature pyrolysis. The resulting carbon foam materials exhibit a highly porous structure, which is essential for their wave-absorption properties. Notably, at a thickness of 2.0 mm, the glucose-derived carbon foam composite catalyzed by Fe and Co (GCF-CoFe) achieved a minimum reflection loss (RLmin) of −51.4 dB at 15.11 GHz, along with an effective absorption bandwidth (EAB) of 5.20 GHz, spanning from 12.80 GHz to 18.00 GHz. These impressive performance metrics indicate that this approach offers a promising pathway for developing low-density, efficient carbon foam materials for wave-absorption applications. This advancement has significant implications for fields requiring effective electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding, stealth technology, and other related applications, potentially leading to more efficient and lightweight solutions.
Approximations in Mean Square Analysis of Stochastically Forced Equilibria for Nonlinear Dynamical Systems
Authors: Bashkirtseva Irina
Published: July 2024

Motivated by important applications to the analysis of complex noise-induced phenomena, we consider a problem of the constructive description of randomly forced equilibria for nonlinear systems with multiplicative noise. Using the apparatus of the first approximation systems, we construct an approximation of mean square deviations that explicitly takes into account the presence of multiplicative noises, depending on the current system state. A spectral criterion of existence and exponential stability of the stationary second moments for the solution of the first approximation system is presented. For mean square deviation, we derive an expansion in powers of the small parameter of noise intensity. Based on this theory, we derive a new, more accurate approximation of mean square deviations in a general nonlinear system with multiplicative noises. This approximation is compared with the widely used approximation based on the stochastic sensitivity technique. The general mathematical results are illustrated with examples of the model of climate dynamics and the van der Pol oscillator with hard excitement.
Effort-Aware Fault-Proneness Prediction Using Non-API-Based Package-Modularization Metrics
Authors: Shaikh Mohsin , Tunio Irfan , Khan Jawad , Jung Younhyun
Published: July 2024

Source code complexity of legacy object-oriented (OO) software has a trickle-down effect over the key activities of software development and maintenance. Package-based OO design is widely believed to be an effective modularization. Recently, theories and methodologies have been proposed to assess the complementary aspects of legacy OO systems through package-modularization metrics. These package-modularization metrics basically address non-API-based object-oriented principles, like encapsulation, commonality-of-goal, changeability, maintainability, and analyzability. Despite their ability to characterize package organization, their application towards cost-effective fault-proneness prediction is yet to be determined. In this paper, we present theoretical illustration and empirical perspective of non-API-based package-modularization metrics towards effort-aware fault-proneness prediction. First, we employ correlation analysis to evaluate the relationship between faults and package-level metrics. Second, we use multivariate logistic regression with effort-aware performance indicators (ranking and classification) to investigate the practical application of proposed metrics. Our experimental analysis over open-source Java software systems provides statistical evidence for fault-proneness prediction and relatively better explanatory power than traditional metrics. Consequently, these results guide developers for reliable and modular package-based software design.
Regenerative Analysis and Approximation of Queueing Systems with Superposed Input Processes
Authors: Peshkova Irina , Morozov Evsey , Pagano Michele
Published: July 2024

A single-server queueing system with n classes of customers, stationary superposed input processes, and general class-dependent service times is considered. An exponential splitting is proposed to construct classical regeneration in this (originally non-regenerative) system, provided that the component processes have heavy-tailed interarrival times. In particular, we focus on input processes with Pareto interarrival times. Moreover, an approximating GI/G/1-type system is considered, in which the independent identically distributed interarrival times follow the stationary Palm distribution corresponding to the stationary superposed input process. Finally, Monte Carlo and regenerative simulation techniques are applied to estimate and compare the stationary waiting time of a customer in the original and in the approximating systems, as well as to derive additional information on the regeneration cycles’ structure.
New Results on the Quasilinearization Method for Time Scales
Authors: Çetin Şahap , Yılmaz Yalçın , Yakar Coşkun
Published: July 2024

We have developed the generalized quasilinearization method (QM) for an initial value problem (IVP) of dynamic equations on time scales by using comparison theorems with a coupled lower solution (LS) and upper solution (US) of the natural type. Under some conditions, we observed that the solutions converged to the unique solution of the problem uniformly and monotonically, and the rate of convergence was investigated.
Cancer Diagnosis by Gene-Environment Interactions via Combination of SMOTE-Tomek and Overlapped Group Screening Approaches with Application to Imbalanced TCGA Clinical and Genomic Data
Authors: Wang Jie-Huei , Liu Cheng-Yu , Min You-Ruei , Wu Zih-Han , Hou Po-Lin
Published: July 2024

The complexity of cancer development involves intricate interactions among multiple biomarkers, such as gene-environment interactions. Utilizing microarray gene expression profile data for cancer classification is anticipated to be effective, thus drawing considerable interest in the fields of bioinformatics and computational biology. Due to the characteristics of genomic data, problems of high-dimensional interactions and noise interference do exist during the analysis process. When building cancer diagnosis models, we often face the dilemma of model adaptation errors due to an imbalance of data types. To mitigate the issues, we apply the SMOTE-Tomek procedure to rectify the imbalance problem. Following this, we utilize the overlapping group screening method alongside a binary logistic regression model to integrate gene pathway information, facilitating the identification of significant biomarkers associated with clinically imbalanced cancer or normal outcomes. Simulation studies across different imbalanced rates and gene structures validate our proposed method’s effectiveness, surpassing common machine learning techniques in terms of classification prediction accuracy. We also demonstrate that prediction performance improves with SMOTE-Tomek treatment compared to no imbalance treatment and SMOTE treatment across various imbalance rates. In the real-world application, we integrate clinical and gene expression data with prior pathway information. We employ SMOTE-Tomek and our proposed methods to identify critical biomarkers and gene-environment interactions linked to the imbalanced binary outcomes (cancer or normal) in patients from the Cancer Genome Atlas datasets of lung adenocarcinoma and breast invasive carcinoma. Our proposed method consistently achieves satisfactory classification accuracy. Additionally, we have identified biomarkers indicative of gene-environment interactions relevant to cancer and have provided corresponding estimates of odds ratios. Moreover, in high-dimensional imbalanced data, for achieving good prediction results, we recommend considering the order of balancing processing and feature screening.
Colour Choice as a Strategic Instrument in Neuromarketing
Authors: Müller Andréia C. , Gil-Lafuente Jaime , Ferrer-Comalat Joan Carles
Published: July 2024

Social relationships have been and are the basis for achieving objectives of all kinds, whether altruistic or lucrative. Among the aspects that make up non-verbal communication are physical appearance in general, clothing, and, in particular, colour combinations. In this article, we analyse whether colour combinations can be established in individuals’ clothing that maximise their chances of success for a specifically established social objective. To measure this objective, we use multivalent logics, which are characterised by their great flexibility and adaptability. Within the framework of fuzzy logic, we extract evaluations for various colours based on the judgements of experts, provided by recognised authors in the literature, and compare these with the results obtained in a survey conducted by the authors. For the purposes of contrast, we employ two instruments with accredited validity: Similarity by Direct Computation (SDC) and the Technique for Order Performance by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS multicriteria method).
An Innovative Method for Deterministic Multifactor Analysis Based on Chain Substitution Averaging
Authors: Mitev Veselin , Hinov Nikolay
Published: July 2024

The aims of this paper are to present the methodology, derived mathematical expressions for determining the individual factor influences and the adaptation for the conditions of dynamic deterministic factor analysis and the results of the application of the developed new method for deterministic factor analysis, called the averaged chain substitution method. After formulating the concept of the considered approach, all mathematical expressions used to create models containing up to four factor variables are presented and summarized. The scientific novelty of the study is in the obtained new equations for determining the individual factor influences by the method of averaged chain substitution and the method of analogy for five-factor additive or difference-multiplicative and for five-factor additive or difference-multifactor models with an additive or different part in the numerator of the factor model. The presented mathematical expressions accurately and unambiguously quantify the impact of individual factor influences for all types of factor models and thus significantly expand the applicability of the averaged chain substitution method in the theory and practice of financial-economic analysis. The proposed formalization and algorithmization of the evaluation process makes the method easy to apply by all economic and financial analysts for the purposes of deterministic factor analysis. The methodology was applied to perform a dynamic deterministic factor analysis of the total liquidity of Monbat AD and ELHIM-ISKRA AD for the period 2017–2021, based on the consolidated annual financial statements of the companies, available on the website of the Bulgarian Stock Exchange.
Computational Cost Reduction in Multi-Objective Feature Selection Using Permutational-Based Differential Evolution
Authors: Barradas-Palmeros Jesús-Arnulfo , Mezura-Montes Efrén , Rivera-López Rafael , Acosta-Mesa Hector-Gabriel , Márquez-Grajales Aldo
Published: July 2024

Feature selection is a preprocessing step in machine learning that aims to reduce dimensionality and improve performance. The approaches for feature selection are often classified according to the evaluation of a subset of features as filter, wrapper, and embedded approaches. The high performance of wrapper approaches for feature selection is associated at the same time with the disadvantage of high computational cost. Cost-reduction mechanisms for feature selection have been proposed in the literature, where competitive performance is achieved more efficiently. This work applies the simple and effective resource-saving mechanisms of the fixed and incremental sampling fraction strategies with memory to avoid repeated evaluations in multi-objective permutational-based differential evolution for feature selection. The selected multi-objective approach is an extension of the DE-FSPM algorithm with the selection mechanism of the GDE3 algorithm. The results showed high resource savings, especially in computational time and the number of evaluations required for the search process. Nonetheless, it was also detected that the algorithm’s performance was diminished. Therefore, the results reported in the literature on the effectiveness of the strategies for cost reduction in single-objective feature selection were only partially sustained in multi-objective feature selection.
Prognostic Factors in Idiopathic Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss: The Experience of Two Audiology Tertiary Referral Centres
Authors: Caragli Valeria , Franz Leonardo , Incognito Alessandro , Bitonti Salvatore , Guarnaccia Maria , Cenedese Roberta , Cocimano Debora , Romano Aaron , Canova Giuseppe , Zanatta Paolo , Genovese Elisabetta , de Filippis Cosimo , Marioni Gino
Published: July 2024

Background and Objectives: Although different hypotheses have been proposed over time, there is a dearth of information on factors able to predict the response to treatment for idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss (ISSNHL) and hearing recovery. The aim of this study was to apply univariate and multivariate statistical models in a retrospective clinical setting of patients given therapy for ISSNHL at our tertiary academic audiological centers to investigate the prognostic value of clinical signs, symptoms, and comorbidities in relation to hearing recovery. Materials and Methods: The inclusion criteria were: history of ISSNHL diagnosed and treated at the Padova or Modena tertiary academic audiological centers; age ≥ 18 years; availability of clinical and audiological outcome data. The exclusion criteria were: hearing loss in acoustic schwannoma, endolymphatic hydrops, meningitis, trauma (head trauma, temporal bone fracture, acoustic trauma), barotrauma, perilymphatic fistula; exposure to noise levels ≥ 80 dB in the work environment; any unilateral or bilateral hearing loss (except for presbycusis) prior to ISSNHL diagnosis; any disorders affecting the external or middle ear; any previous ear surgery; refusal to make medical data available for research purposes. Eighty-six consecutive patients (38 females, 48 males; median age: 58 years; interquartile range: 47.00–69.00 years) were included. A systemic steroid therapy was administered to all patients, either orally with prednisone or intravenously with methylprednisolone. Second-line therapy included intratympanic steroid injections and/or hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Results: A multivariate logistic regression model was used, including the non-multicollinear clinical and audiological variables, which showed a p-value < 0.10 at the univariate analyses (namely age at diagnosis, time to diagnosis, oral steroid dose, and PTA on the affected side). Only PTA on the affected side retained its statistical significance (OR: 1.0615, 95% CI: 1.0185–1.1063, p = 0.005). Conclusions: The analysis of our data showed an association between the hearing threshold before treatment and the recovery from ISSNHL. Further studies on larger cohorts (especially in a prospective setting) are needed to shed more light on the prognostic role of clinical parameters in patients with ISSNHL. In a correct counseling setting, with regard to the patient’s concern about not being able to recover hearing, it is important to offer perspectives of appropriate hearing rehabilitation approaches.
Prognosis Following Sustained Virologic Response in Korean Chronic Hepatitis C Patients Treated with Sofosbuvir-Based Treatment: Data from a Multicenter Prospective Observational Study up to 7 Years
Authors: Park Yewan , Na Seong-Kyun , Yoon Jae-Hyun , Kim Sung-Eun , Park Ji-Won , Kim Gi-Ae , Lee Hyo-Young , Lee Young-Sun , Kim Jeong-Han
Published: July 2024

Background and Objectives: Chronic hepatitis C (CHC) can be cured with direct-acting antiviral (DAA) therapy. In Korea, sofosbuvir (SOF) and ledipasvir (LDV)/SOF were launched in 2016. Patients who achieve a sustained virologic response (SVR) following DAA treatment are predicted to have a favorable prognosis. Nevertheless, little is known regarding the prognosis of Korean CHC patients who receive SOF-based treatment and achieve SVR. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to look into the long-term outcomes for these patients. Materials and Methods: This was a prospective, multicenter observational study. CHC patients were enrolled who, following SOF or LDV/SOF treatment, had achieved SVR. The last day for follow-up was December 2023. The primary endpoint was HCC occurrence, which was checked at least once per year. Results: A total of 516 patients were included in this analysis, with a median follow-up duration of 39.0 months. Among them, 231 were male patients (44.8%), with a median age of 62.0 years. Genotypes were 1 (90, 17.4%), 2 (423, 82.0%), and 3 (3, 0.6%). The combination of SOF plus ribavirin was the most common treatment (394, 76.4%). In total, 160 patients were cirrhotic (31.0%), and the mean Child–Pugh score was 5.1. Within a maximum of 7 years, 21 patients (4.1%) developed HCC. Patients with HCC were older (69 vs. 61 years, p = 0.013) and had a higher cirrhosis incidence (81.0 vs. 28.9%, p < 0.001), higher AFP (6.0 vs. 3.3, p = 0.003) and higher APRI (0.8 vs. 0.5, p = 0.005). Age over 65 (p = 0.016) and cirrhosis (p = 0.005) were found to be significant risk factors for HCC by Cox regression analysis. Conclusions: Patients who achieved SVR with SOF-based treatment had a relatively favorable prognosis. However, the risk of HCC was not eliminated, especially in older and cirrhotic patients. Therefore, routine follow-up, surveillance, and early treatment are required.
Dentigerous Cysts in Children: Clinical, Radiological, and Healing Aspects
Authors: Langă Maria Cristina , Nica Diana Florina , Duma Virgil-Florin , Heredea Rodica Elena , Sinescu Cosmin
Published: July 2024

Background and Objectives: Dentigerous cysts are one of the most frequent pathologies associated with unerupted or impacted teeth. Such cysts show a male predilection and a preference for the mandibular region. Also, they commonly occur in the second and third decades of life, with only 9% occurring in the first decade. The aim of this work is to apply and study the therapeutic algorithms developed for dentigerous cysts and their outcomes, from the early diagnostic stage to the complete healing phase of pediatric patients diagnosed with this medical condition. Materials and Methods: The study included 19 pediatric patients diagnosed with dentigerous cysts who underwent the enucleation and extraction or conservative attitude of the associated tooth. The bony healing was also followed-up 9 months after the surgery. Results: A higher incidence in the posterior area of the mandible and maxilla was observed, as well as a higher incidence in boys. The 9 months postoperative radiographic assessment showed that the bony defects were completely healed. Conclusions: A thorough understanding of the nature of the lesion backed by a good clinical history and by state-of-the-art radiographic and radiologic examinations can go a long way in helping the surgeon to choose the correct therapeutic approach and to ameliorate the medical condition in the best long-term interest of the young patient. The considered dentigerous cyst cases demonstrated that an early diagnosis and treatment of this pathology is followed by a responsive treatment.
Innovative Mitral Valve Repair Using a Novel Automated Suturing System: Preliminary Data
Authors: Poschner Thomas , Laengle Severin , Tasdelen Sahra , Suria Aldo , Baysal Funda , Kocher Alfred , Andreas Martin
Published: July 2024

(1) Background and Objectives: Mitral regurgitation is a common valve disease requiring surgical repair. Even with satisfactory results, repair techniques may underlie subjectivity and variability and require long learning curves. A novel approach, the “Roman Arch” technique, may ease the technical burden. This study assessed an automated suturing device’s feasibility and time efficiency for a proposed simplified technique. (2) Materials and Methods: Using the MiStitch™ and MiKnot™ devices (LSI Solutions, Inc., Victor, NY, USA), the suture pattern was performed in a cadaver model. Three surgeons with different expertise levels conducted the procedures. Repair and suture placement times were recorded and analyzed. (3) Results: The modified “Roman Arch” repair was completed on all ten human heart specimens with an average total repair time of 3:01 ± 00:59 min and a trend toward reduced times as experience increased. The study confirmed the technical feasibility with 90% of the attempts rated as rather satisfactory or very satisfactory. (4) Conclusions: The MiStitch™ system effectively facilitated the modified “Roman Arch” repair in an ex vivo setting, suggesting its potential to reduce the technical complexity of mitral valve repairs. Further studies are needed to confirm its efficacy and safety in clinical practice.
Left Ventricular Geometry and Inferior Vena Cava Diameter Co-Modify the Risk of Cardiovascular Outcomes in Chronic Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Wu Chung-Kuan , Wang Ming , Kao Zih-Kai , Yar Noi , Chuang Ming-Tsang , Chang Tzu-Hao
Published: July 2024

Background and Objectives: Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) represents a significant cardiovascular risk in patients undergoing chronic hemodialysis (CHD). A large inferior vena cava diameter (IVCD), potentially indicative of fluid overload and a contributing factor to elevated cardiovascular risk, has not been sufficiently explored. Therefore, our study aims to gain further insights into this aspect. Materials and Methods: A retrospective cohort study enrolled patients receiving CHD in a single medical center with available echocardiography from October to December 2018. They were categorized into four groups based on LVH geometry and IVCD. Cox proportional hazard models assessed the risk of major adverse cardiovascular effects (MACEs) and cardiovascular and overall mortality after multivariate adjustments. Kaplan–Meier analysis depicted MACE-free events and survival during the follow-up time. Results: Of the 175 CHD patients, 38, 42, 45, and 50 exhibited small IVCD with eccentric and concentric LVH and large IVCD with eccentric and concentric LVH, respectively. Compared to small IVCD and eccentric LVH, large IVCD and eccentric LVH had the highest risk of MACEs, followed by large IVCD and concentric LVH (aHR: 4.40, 3.60; 95% CI: 1.58–12.23, 1.28–10.12, respectively). As for cardiovascular mortality, large IVCD and concentric LVH had the highest risk, followed by large IVCD and eccentric LVH, and small IVCD and concentric LVH. (aHR: 14.34, 10.23, 8.87; 95% CI: 1.99–103.35, 1.41–74.33; 1.01–77.87). The trend in overall mortality risk among the groups was similar to that of cardiovascular mortality. Conclusions: LVH geometry and IVCD co-modify the risk of MACEs and cardiovascular and overall mortality in CHD patients. The highest risk of MACEs is associated with large IVCD and eccentric LVH, while the highest risk of cardiovascular and overall mortality is linked with large IVCD and concentric LVH.
Alteration of Fecal Microbiota, Fecal Metabolites, and Serum Metabolites in Dairy Cows with Pre-Retained Placenta
Authors: Zhou Tao , Du Zhenlong , Luo Zhengzhong , Li Xiaoping , Wu Dan , Huang Yixin , Yong Kang , Yao Xueping , Shen Liuhong , Yu Shumin , Yan Zuoting , Cao Suizhong
Published: July 2024

Retained placenta (RP) affects lactation and fertility in dairy cows and causes economic losses to the dairy industry. Therefore, screening for early warning of this disease is important. This study used multi omics techniques to reveal the metabolic differences of dairy cows before RP onset and to find potential warning markers. Fecal samples and serum samples of 90 healthy Holstein cows were collected 7 days pre-calving; 10 healthy and 10 RP cows were enrolled according to normal expulsion of fetal membranes after calving. Fecal samples were subjected to 16S rRNA sequencing and untargeted metabolomics analysis, while plasma was analyzed using targeted metabolomics. Pathogenic bacteria levels increased in the intestines of cows with RP compared to those in healthy cows. Lipid metabolites constituted the largest proportion of differential metabolites between feces and plasma. Six potential warning markers for RP in cows were identified, including two fecal microbiomics markers (Oscillospiraceae UCG-005 and Escherichia-Shigella), one fecal untargeted metabolomics marker (N-acetylmuramic acid), and three plasma targeted metabolomics markers (glycylcholic acid-3 sulfate, 7-ketolithocholic acid, and 12-ketolithocholic acid). These biomarkers can predict RP occurrence in the early perinatal period. These results lay a theoretical foundation for early nutritional intervention and pathogenesis research in dairy cows.
Multi-Step Two-Dimensional Ultrasonic-Assisted Grinding of Silicon Carbide: An Experimental Study on Surface Topography and Roughness
Authors: Li Hongbo , Chen Tao , Bie Wenbo , Chen Fan , Suo Yuhao , Duan Zhenyan
Published: July 2024

Two-dimensional ultrasonic-assisted grinding (2D-UAG) has exhibited advantages in improving the machining quality of hard and brittle materials. However, the grinding mechanism in this process has not been thoroughly revealed due to the complicated material removal behaviors. In this study, multi-step 2D-UAG experiments of silicon carbide are conducted to investigate the effects of machining parameters on surface quality. The experimental results demonstrate that the tool amplitude and the workpiece amplitude have similar effects on surface roughness. In the rough grinding stage, the surface roughness decreases continuously with increasing ultrasonic amplitudes and the material is mainly removed by brittle fracture with different surface defects. Under semi-finishing and finishing grinding steps, the surface roughness first declines and then increases as the tool amplitude or workpiece amplitude grows from 0 μm to 8 μm and the inflection point appears around 4 μm. The surface damage contains small-sized pits with band-like distribution and localized grooves. Furthermore, the influences of cutting parameters on surface quality are similar to those in conventional grinding. Discussions of the underlying mechanisms for the experimental phenomena are also provided based on kinematic analysis. The conclusions gained in this study can provide references for the optimization of machining parameters in 2D-UAG of hard and brittle materials.
Drinking Water Microbiota, Entero-Mammary Pathways, and Breast Cancer: Focus on Nontuberculous Mycobacteria
Authors: Maranha Ana , Alarico Susana , Nunes-Costa Daniela , Melo-Marques Inês , Roxo Inês , Castanheira Pedro , Caramelo Olga , Empadinhas Nuno
Published: July 2024

The prospect of drinking water serving as a conduit for gut bacteria, artificially selected by disinfection strategies and a lack of monitoring at the point of use, is concerning. Certain opportunistic pathogens, notably some nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM), often exceed coliform bacteria levels in drinking water, posing safety risks. NTM and other microbiota resist chlorination and thrive in plumbing systems. When inhaled, opportunistic NTM can infect the lungs of immunocompromised or chronically ill patients and the elderly, primarily postmenopausal women. When ingested with drinking water, NTM often survive stomach acidity, reach the intestines, and migrate to other organs using immune cells as vehicles, potentially colonizing tumor tissue, including in breast cancer. The link between the microbiome and cancer is not new, yet the recognition of intratumoral microbiomes is a recent development. Breast cancer risk rises with age, and NTM infections have emerged as a concern among breast cancer patients. In addition to studies hinting at a potential association between chronic NTM infections and lung cancer, NTM have also been detected in breast tumors at levels higher than normal adjacent tissue. Evaluating the risks of continued ingestion of contaminated drinking water is paramount, especially given the ability of various bacteria to migrate from the gut to breast tissue via entero-mammary pathways. This underscores a pressing need to revise water safety monitoring guidelines and delve into hormonal factors, including addressing the disproportionate impact of NTM infections and breast cancer on women and examining the potential health risks posed by the cryptic and unchecked microbiota from drinking water.
Single Amino Acids as Sole Nitrogen Source for the Production of Lipids and Coenzyme Q by Thraustochytrium sp. RT2316-16
Authors: Flores Liset , Shene Carolina
Published: July 2024

This work analyzes the production of total lipids and the content of CoQ9 and CoQ10 in the biomass of Thraustochytrium sp. RT2316-16 grown in media containing a single amino acid at a concentration of 1 g L−1 as the sole nitrogen source; glucose (5 g L−1) was used as the carbon source. Biomass concentration and the content of total lipids and CoQ were determined as a function of the incubation time; ten amino acids were evaluated. The final concentration of the total biomass was found to be between 2.2 ± 0.1 (aspartate) and 3.9 ± 0.1 g L−1 (glutamate). The biomass grown in media containing glutamate, serine or phenylalanine reached a content of total lipids higher than 20% of the cell dry weight (DW) after 72, 60 and 72 h of incubation, respectively. The highest contents of CoQ9 (39.0 ± 0.7 µg g−1 DW) and CoQ10 (167.4 ± 3.4 mg g−1 DW) in the biomass of the thraustochytrid were obtained when glutamate and cysteine were used as the nitrogen source, respectively. Fatty acid oxidation, which decreased the total lipid content during the first 12 h of incubation, and the oxidation of hydrogen sulfide when cysteine was the nitrogen source, might be related to the content of CoQ10 in the biomass of the thraustochytrid.
Reducing Application of Nitrogen Fertilizer Increases Soil Bacterial Diversity and Drives Co-Occurrence Networks
Authors: Wang Feng , Liu Hao , Yao Hongyan , Zhang Bo , Li Yue , Jin Shuquan , Cao Hui
Published: July 2024

Reducing nitrogen fertilizer application highlights its role in optimizing soil bacterial communities to achieve sustainable agriculture. However, the specific mechanisms of bacterial community change under these conditions are not yet clear. In this study, we employed long-term field experiments and high-throughput sequencing to analyze how varying levels of nitrogen application influence the soil bacterial community structure and co-occurrence networks. The results show that reducing the nitrogen inputs significantly enhances the diversity and evenness of the soil bacterial communities, possibly due to the diminished dominance of nitrogen-sensitive taxa, which in turn liberates the ecological niches for less competitive species. Furthermore, changes in the complexity and stability of the bacterial co-occurrence networks suggest increased community resilience and a shift toward more mutualistic interactions. These findings underline the potential of reduced nitrogen application to alleviate competitive pressures among bacterial species, thereby promoting a more diverse and stable microbial ecosystem, highlighting the role of competitive release in fostering microbial diversity. This research contributes to our understanding of how nitrogen management can influence soil health and offers insights into sustainable agricultural practices.
Comparing Sediment Bacterial Communities of Volcanic Lakes and Surrounding Rivers in Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, Northeastern China
Authors: Chao Jianying , Li Jian , Gao Jing , Bai Chengrong , Tang Xiangming , Shao Keqiang
Published: July 2024

Volcanic lakes originate from a volcanic crater or caldera, and were a crucial component of aquatic ecosystems. Sediment bacteria play an important role in the nutrient cycling of aquatic ecosystems; however, their patterns distribution in volcanic lakes and the surrounding river habitats are unknown. In this study, we compare the sediment bacterial communities and their co-occurrence networks between these two habitats in the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, Northeastern China (the Arxan UNESCO Global Geopark), using 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing. The results revealed that there were significant variations in the physicochemical parameters of the sediment between these two habitats. The bacterial α-diversity, β-diversity, and community composition of the sediment also significantly differed between these two habitats. Network analysis showed that the co-occurrence patterns and keystone taxa in the sediment differed between these two habitats. The sediment bacterial communities in the river habitats were more stable than those in the lake habitats in the face of environmental change. Canonical correspondence analysis demonstrated that both physical (pH and MC) and nutrition-related factors (TN, TP, LOI, and TOC) were the most important environmental factors shaping the variations of bacterial community composition (BCC) in the sediment between these two habitats. This work could greatly improve our understanding of the sediment BCC of the sediment from aquatic ecosystems in the UNESCO Global Geopark.
Tixagevimab/Cilgavimab as SARS-CoV-2 Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis in Lung Transplant Recipients during the Omicron Wave: A Real-World Monocentric Experience
Authors: Cona Andrea , Tavelli Alessandro , Agrenzano Stefano , Hafeez Neha , Scianna Giovanni , Maria Angelo , Marino Francesco , Cruz Elizabeth De La , Giorgio Maria Di , Osorio Eglys , Cucinella Giuseppe , Luca Angelo , Provenzani Alessio , Vitulo Patrizio , Bertani Alessandro , Grossi Paolo Antonio , Mularoni Alessandra
Published: July 2024

Lung transplant recipients (LTRs) respond poorly to vaccination. SARS-CoV-2 pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) with tixagevimab/cilgavimab (TIX/CIL) reduces the incidence of infection and the evolution to severe COVID-19. In vitro data show decreased activity against Omicron variants. We evaluated the clinical efficacy and safety of TIX/CIL in LTRs during the Omicron wave. A prospective observational cohort study was conducted at ISMETT in Palermo (Italy). In June 2022, SARS-CoV-2 PrEP with TIX/CIL 150/150 mg was offered to LTRs. LTRs who received TIX/CIL were compared to LTRs who did not. Logistic regression analysis (adjusted for prior COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2 vaccination, age, years from transplant, and rejection) was performed. The objective of this study was to compare the following among the two populations: prevalence of SARS-CoV-2, length of SARS-CoV-2 positivity, and COVID-19 disease severity. Among 110 eligible LTRs, 79 (72%) received TIX/CIL and 31 (28%) did not. SARS-CoV-2 infections occurred in 6% (n = 5) of patients who received TIX/CIL and 29% (n = 9) of patients who did not (p < 0.001). In both groups, infections were mild/asymptomatic, and no one was hospitalized or died. At multivariate analysis, TIX/CIL was associated with a lower risk of infection (aOR 0.22; 95%CI 0.06–0.78; p = 0.02). TIX/CIL was safe and effective in reducing the risk of SARS-CoV-2 in LTRs during the Omicron wave.