bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Generalized Connectivity of the Mycielskian Graph under g-Extra Restriction
Authors: Zou Jinyu , Li He , Zhang Shumin , Ye Chengfu
Published: September 2023

The g-extra connectivity is a very important index to evaluate the fault tolerance, reliability of interconnection networks. Let g be a non-negative integer, G be a connected graph with vertex set V and edge set E, a subset S⊆V is called a g-extra cut of G if the graph induced by the set G−S is disconnected and each component of G−S has at least g+1 vertices. The g-extra connectivity of G, denoted as κg(G), is the cardinality of the minimum g-extra cut of G. Mycielski introduced a graph transformation to discover chromatic numbers of triangle-free graphs that can be arbitrarily large. This transformation converts a graph G into a new compound graph called μ(G), also known as the Mycielskian graph of G. In this paper, we study the relationship on g-extra connectivity between the Mycielskian graph μ(G) and the graph G. In addition, we show that κ3(μ(G))=2κ1(G)+1 for κ1(G)≤min{4,⌊n2⌋}, and prove the bounds of κ2g+1(μ(G)) for g≥2.
Prevention of PID Phenomenon for Solar Panel Based on Mathematical Data Analysis Models
Authors: Chen You-Shyang , Hung Ying-Hsun , Lin Yu-Sheng , Chang Jieh-Ren , Lo Chi-Hsiang , You Hong-Kai
Published: September 2023

In recent years, the problem of potential-induced degradation (PID) phenomenon has been deeply associated with solar power issues because it causes serious power attenuation of solar panels and results in lowering its power generation efficiency. Thus, effectively identifying the PID problem from insights of industry data analysis to reduce production costs and increase the performance of power generation is an interesting and important subject for the solar power industry. Moreover, by the traditional standard rule (IEC62804) and the condition of a 96 h testing time, the costs of testing time and assembling materials against PID are very high and must be improved. Given the above reasons, this study proposes a hybrid procedure to organizes four mathematical methods: the mini-module testing, solar cell testing, a settling time, and a neural network, which are named as Method-1–Method-4, respectively, to efficiently solve the PID problem. Consequently, there are four key outcomes from the empirical results for solar power application: (1) In Method-1 with a 96 h testing time, it was found that the large module with higher costs and the mini module with lower costs have a positive correlation; thus, we can replace the large-module testing by the effective mini module for lower cost on module materials. (2) In Method-2 with a 24 h testing time, it was also found that the mini module and the solar cell are positively correlated; this result provides evidence that we can conduct the PID test by the easier solar cell to lower the costs. (3) In Method-3, the settling time achieves an average accuracy of 94% for PID prediction with a 14 h testing time. (4) In Method-4, the experimental result provides an accuracy of 80% when identifying the PID problem with the mathematical neural network model and are obtained within a 2 h testing time. From the above results, these methods succeed in reducing cost of materials and testing time during the manufacturing process; thus, this study has an industrial application value. Concurrently, Method-3 and Method-4 are rarely seen in the limited literature review for identifying PID problem; therefore, this study also offers a novel contribution for technical application innovation.
Taylor DQN: An Optimization Method for Aircraft Engine Cleaning Schedule
Authors: Wang Rui , Guo Xiangyu , Yan Zhiqi , Chen Dongqi
Published: September 2023

Reducing carbon emissions and improving revenue in the face of global warming and economic challenges is a growing concern for airlines. This paper addresses the inefficiencies and high costs associated with current aero-engine on-wing washing strategies. To tackle this issue, we propose a reinforcement learning framework consisting of a Similar Sequence Method and a Taylor DQN model. The Similar Sequence Method, comprising a sample library, DTW algorithm, and boundary adjustment, predicts washed aero-engine data for the Taylor DQN model. Leveraging the proposed Taylor neural networks, our model outputs Q-values to make informed washing decisions using data from the Similar Sequence Method. Through simulations, we demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach.
Spectral Representations of Iterated Stochastic Integrals and Their Application for Modeling Nonlinear Stochastic Dynamics
Authors: Rybakov Konstantin
Published: September 2023

Spectral representations of iterated Itô and Stratonovich stochastic integrals of arbitrary multiplicity, including integrals from Taylor–Itô and Taylor–Stratonovich expansions, are obtained by the spectral method. They are required for the implementation of numerical methods for solving Itô and Stratonovich stochastic differential equations with high orders of mean-square and strong convergence. The purpose of such numerical methods is the modeling of nonlinear stochastic dynamics in many fields. This paper contains necessary theoretical results, as well as the results of numerical experiments.
Asymptotic Behavior of a Nonparametric Estimator of the Renewal Function for Random Fields
Authors: Andriamampionona Livasoa , Harison Victor , Harel Michel
Published: September 2023

In this paper, we study the asymptotic normality of a nonparametric estimator of the renewal function associated with a sequence of absolutely continuous nonnegative two-dimensional random fields. We prove that this estimator is asymptotically unbiased. The asymptotic normality of this estimator is established.
Deep Learning Method Based on Physics-Informed Neural Network for 3D Anisotropic Steady-State Heat Conduction Problems
Authors: Xing Zebin , Cheng Heng , Cheng Jing
Published: September 2023

This paper uses the physical information neural network (PINN) model to solve a 3D anisotropic steady-state heat conduction problem based on deep learning techniques. The model embeds the problem’s governing equations and boundary conditions into the neural network and treats the neural network’s output as the numerical solution of the partial differential equation. Then, the network is trained using the Adam optimizer on the training set. The output progressively converges toward the accurate solution of the equation. In the first numerical example, we demonstrate the convergence of the PINN by discussing the effect of the neural network’s number of layers, each hidden layer’s number of neurons, the initial learning rate and decay rate, the size of the training set, the mini-batch size, the amount of training points on the boundary, and the training steps on the relative error of the numerical solution, respectively. The numerical solutions are presented for three different examples. Thus, the effectiveness of the method is verified.
Active Labeling Correction of Mealtimes and the Appearance of Types of Carbohydrates in Type 1 Diabetes Information Records
Authors: Contreras Ivan , Muñoz-Organero Mario , Beneyto Aleix , Vehi Josep
Published: September 2023

People with type 1 diabetes are required to adhere to their treatment rigorously to ensure maximum benefits. Diabetes tracking tools have played an important role in this regard. Type 1 diabetes monitoring has evolved and matured with the advent of blood glucose monitor sensors, insulin pens, and insulin pump automation. However, carbohydrate monitoring has seen little progress despite carbohydrates representing a major potential disruption. Relying on the modeling of carbohydrate intake using the rate of exogenous glucose appearance, we first present a methodology capable of identifying the type of carbohydrates ingested by classifying them into fast and non-fast carbohydrates. Second, we test the ability of the methodology to identify the correct synchrony between the actual mealtime and the time labeled as such in diabetes records. A deep neural network is trained with processed input data that consist of different values to estimate the parameters in a series of experiments in which, firstly, we vary the response of ingested carbohydrates for subsequent identification and, secondly, we shift the learned carbohydrate absorption curves in time to estimate when the meals were administered to virtual patients. This study validates that the identification of different carbohydrate classes in the meal records of people with type 1 diabetes could become a valuable source of information, as it demonstrates the potential to identify inaccuracies in the recorded meal records of these patients, suggesting the potential abilities of the next generation of type 1 diabetes management tools.
Optimal Fair-Workload Scheduling: A Case Study at Glorytek
Authors: Lin Tzu-Chin , Lin Bertrand M. T.
Published: September 2023

Taichung is the center of the Taiwanese precision optical industry. Optics companies are modernized and automated, with most running 24 h production lines. With machines running around the clock, production lines must be assigned engineers to handle unexpected situations. The optical lens industry depends on precision technology. For fully automated production lines, each production process requires an engineer to be on call to troubleshoot production problems in real-time. However, shifts are currently scheduled manually, and the staff of each unit are responsible for scheduling the various production processes for each month. Administrative staff for each engineering department must take half a day to one day to complete the shift for a month, with results that usually do not ensure the best average workload, often leading engineers to question its fairness. Considering the manpower requirements for the actual production line shift and the fairness of balancing shifts, the scope of this study is the shift scheduling of engineering staff in the assembly line to perform different duties during a fixed cycle. The research aims to provide a solution for Glorytek to increase the efficiency of engineering shift scheduling and optimize the allocation of engineering staff. We will compare the duty allocation and efficiency of the current manual shift scheduling system with a new automated one. The results show that the efficiency of shift scheduling arrangements increased by more than 96%, and the maximum number of days of staff attendance (5 days) is less than that for manual assignment (6 days) while still satisfying the shift limits stipulated by the company. Two factors remain when implementing the proposed system. First, due to technical concerns, the internal process of the scheduling arrangement would be shifted from administrative staff to the IT department. Another concern is the inevitable investment in off-the-shelf optimization software.
Optimal Lot-Sizing Decisions for a Remanufacturing Production System under Spare Parts Supply Disruption
Authors: Mat Ropi Nuramilawahida , Hishamuddin Hawa , Wahab Dzuraidah Abd , Jauhari Wakhid Ahmad , A. Rashid Fatin Amrina , Khamis Nor Kamaliana , Mohamed Intan Fadhlina , Mohd Sabri Mohd Anas , Abu Mansor Mohd Radzi
Published: September 2023

Remanufacturing is one of the ways forward for product recovery initiatives and for maintaining sufficient production flow to satisfy customer demand by providing high-quality goods with a combination of new and return parts through a circular economy. Recently, manufacturers have been progressively incorporating remanufacturing processes, making their supply chains vulnerable to disruptions. One of the main disruptions that occurs in remanufacturing systems is the shortage of spare parts supply, which results in unexpected delays in the remanufacturing process and could eventually result in a possible loss of sales. In the event of such potential disruptions, remanufacturing facilities must manage their supply chains in an effective and optimal manner such that the negative impact of disruptions to their business can be minimised. In this study, a two-stage production–inventory system was analysed by developing a cost-minimisation model that focuses on the recovery schedule after the occurrence of a disruption in sourcing spare parts for a remanufacturer’s production cycle. The developed model was solved using the branch-and-bound algorithm, where the experimental results demonstrated that the model provides effective solutions. Through numerical experiments, results indicated that the optimal recovery schedule and the number of recovery cycles are considerably dependent on the disruption time, lost sales and backorder costs. A sensitivity analysis showed that the lost sales option seems to be more effective than the backorder sales option in optimising the system’s overall cost due to unmet demand, which becomes lost sales when serviceable items are reduced, thereby shortening recovery time. Furthermore, a case study revealed that a manufacturer’s response to disruption is highly influenced by the spare part costs and overall recovery costs as well as the supplier’s readiness level. The proposed model could assist managers in deciding the optimal production strategy whilst providing interesting managerial insights into vital spare parts recovery issues when disruption strikes.
A Joint Distribution Pricing Model of Express Enterprises Based on Dynamic Game Theory
Authors: Fan Hongqiang , Sun Yichen , Yun Lifen , Yu Runfeng
Published: September 2023

With the development of sharing economy, a joint distribution mode has been increasingly adopted as the preferred cooperation mode of third-party logistics enterprises to achieve the efficient, resource-saving, and profit-optimal business goals of enterprises. In the joint distribution mode, the distribution price is one of key factors that influences the operation of the joint distribution. Thus, to acquire the optimal pricing for the logistics enterprises, we establish a pricing model based on dynamic game theory for a joint distribution system including one joint distribution company and two express enterprises. In the proposed model, two dimensions of games exist simultaneously, including the game between express competitors and the game between express and distribution enterprises. The multidimensional game leads to more complex system characteristics. Through the stability analysis, we find the Nash equilibrium point and its stability conditions. Numerical simulations are conducted to investigate the complex dynamical behaviors of the game model, such as the system stability region, the bifurcation diagram, the largest Lyapunov exponent, strange attractors, etc. The simulation results indicate that different price adjustment speeds and ranges have a significant impact on the system stability and the profits of all participants in the game. The parameter adjustment control can well dominate the chaotic behaviors of the system. Enterprises should make pricing decisions based on their market positions to promote the continuous and stable development of the operation mode of the multi-agent joint sharing distribution center.
Mining Xanthine Oxidase Inhibitors from an Edible Seaweed Pterocladiella capillacea by Using In Vitro Bioassays, Affinity Ultrafiltration LC-MS/MS, Metabolomics Tools, and In Silico Prediction
Authors: Wang Yawen , Zhou Longjian , Chen Minqi , Liu Yayue , Yang Yu , Lu Tiantian , Ban Fangfang , Hu Xueqiong , Qian Zhongji , Hong Pengzhi , Zhang Yi
Published: September 2023

The prevalence of gout and the adverse effects of current synthetic anti-gout drugs call for new natural and effective xanthine oxidase (XOD) inhibitors to target this disease. Based on our previous finding that an edible seaweed Pterocladiella capillacea extract inhibits XOD, XOD-inhibitory and anti-inflammatory activities were used to evaluate the anti-gout potential of different P. capillacea extract fractions. Through affinity ultrafiltration coupled with liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), feature-based molecular networking (FBMN), and database mining of multiple natural products, the extract’s bioactive components were traced and annotated. Through molecular docking and ADMET analysis, the possibility and drug-likeness of the annotated XOD inhibitors were predicted. The results showed that fractions F4, F6, F4-2, and F4-3 exhibited strong XOD inhibition activity, among which F4-3 reached an inhibition ratio of 77.96% ± 4.91% to XOD at a concentration of 0.14 mg/mL. In addition, the P. capillacea extract and fractions also displayed anti-inflammatory activity. Affinity ultrafiltration LC-MS/MS analysis and molecular networking showed that out of the 20 annotated compounds, 8 compounds have been previously directly or indirectly reported from seaweeds, and 4 compounds have been reported to exhibit anti-gout activity. Molecular docking and ADMET showed that six seaweed-derived compounds can dock with the XOD activity pocket and follow the Lipinski drug-like rule. These results support the value of further investigating P. capillacea as part of the development of anti-gout drugs or related functional foods.
Marine Invertebrate Antimicrobial Peptides and Their Potential as Novel Peptide Antibiotics
Authors: Guryanova Svetlana V. , Balandin Sergey V. , Belogurova-Ovchinnikova Oksana Yu. , Ovchinnikova Tatiana V.
Published: September 2023

Marine invertebrates constantly interact with a wide range of microorganisms in their aquatic environment and possess an effective defense system that has enabled their existence for millions of years. Their lack of acquired immunity sets marine invertebrates apart from other marine animals. Invertebrates could rely on their innate immunity, providing the first line of defense, survival, and thriving. The innate immune system of marine invertebrates includes various biologically active compounds, and specifically, antimicrobial peptides. Nowadays, there is a revive of interest in these peptides due to the urgent need to discover novel drugs against antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains, a pressing global concern in modern healthcare. Modern technologies offer extensive possibilities for the development of innovative drugs based on these compounds, which can act against bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and viruses. This review focuses on structural peculiarities, biological functions, gene expression, biosynthesis, mechanisms of antimicrobial action, regulatory activities, and prospects for the therapeutic use of antimicrobial peptides derived from marine invertebrates.
Relationship between Preoperative Echocardiographic Parameters and the Incidence of Postoperative Complications in Patients Undergoing Clipping of Unruptured Intracranial Aneurysms: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Park Yong-Seok , Lee Seung-Ah , Sim Ji-Hoon , Moon Baehun , Kim Kyoung-Sun , Ha Seungil , Choi Jung-Hoon , Kim Sung-Hoon
Published: September 2023

Background and Objectives: Preoperative echocardiography is widely performed in patients undergoing major surgeries to evaluate cardiac functions and detect structural abnormalities. However, studies on the clinical usefulness of preoperative echocardiography in patients undergoing cerebral aneurysm clipping are limited. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the correlation between preoperative echocardiographic parameters and the incidence of postoperative complications in patients undergoing clipping of unruptured intracranial aneurysms. Materials and Methods: Electronic medical records of patients who underwent clipping of an unruptured intracranial aneurysm from September 2018 to April 2020 were retrospectively reviewed. Data on baseline characteristics, laboratory variables, echocardiographic parameters, postoperative complications, and hospital stays were obtained. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to identify independent variables related to the occurrence of postoperative complications and prolonged hospital stay (≥8 d). Results: Among 531 patients included in the final analysis, 27 (5.1%) had postoperative complications. In multivariable logistic regression, the total amount of crystalloids infused (1.002 (1.001–1.003), p = 0.001) and E/e’ ratio (1.17 (1.01–1.35), p = 0.031) were significant independent factors associated with the occurrence of a postoperative complication. Additionally, the maximal diameter of a cerebral aneurysm (1.13 (1.02–1.25), p = 0.024), total amount of crystalloids infused (1.001 (1.000–1.002), p = 0.031), E/A ratio (0.22 (0.05–0.95), p = 0.042), and E/e’ ratio (1.16 (1.04–1.31), p = 0.011) were independent factors related to prolonged hospitalization. Conclusions: Echocardiographic parameters related to diastolic function might be associated with postoperative complications in patients undergoing clipping of unruptured intracranial aneurysms.
Possible Applications for a Biodegradable Magnesium Membrane in Alveolar Ridge Augmentation–Retrospective Case Report with Two Years of Follow-Up
Authors: Palkovics Daniel , Rider Patrick , Rogge Svenja , Kačarević Željka Perić , Windisch Peter
Published: September 2023

Background and Objectives: A rigid, resorbable magnesium membrane was recently developed, combining the advantages of resorbable and non-resorbable membranes. Our aim was to describe the application of this membrane for guided bone regeneration (GBR). Materials and Methods: This case report described the treatment and 3D evaluation of two cases utilizing a resorbable magnesium barrier membrane. In Case #1, GBR was performed with a bilayer tunnel flap. The magnesium barrier was placed fixed subperiosteally through remote vertical incisions. In Case #2, GBR was performed using a split-thickness flap design. Volumetric and linear hard tissue alterations were assessed by 3D cone-beam computed tomography subtraction analysis, as well as with conventional intraoral radiography. Results: Case #1 showed a volumetric hard tissue gain of 0.12 cm3, whereas Case #2 presented a 0.36 cm3 hard tissue gain. No marginal peri-implant hard tissue loss could be detected at the two-year follow-up. Conclusions: The application of conventional resorbable collagen membranes would be difficult in either of the cases presented. However, the rigid structure of the magnesium membrane allowed for the limitations of conventional resorbable membranes to be overcome.
Characteristics of Age Classification into Five-Year Intervals to Explain Sarcopenia and Immune Cells in Older Adults
Authors: Heo Seung-Jae , Jee Yong-Seok
Published: September 2023

Background and Objectives: This study focused on investigating sarcopenic factors and immune cells in older adulthood. To achieve this, the variables related to sarcopenia and immune cells in people living in the same community were analyzed. Materials and Methods: A total of 433 elderly individuals aged 61 to 85 years were randomly categorized as follows in 5-year intervals: 68 in the youngest-old group (aged 61–65), 168 in the young-old group (aged 66–70), 127 in the middle-old group (aged 71–75), 46 in the old-old group (aged 76–80), and 19 in the oldest-old group (aged 81–85). Results: With the progression of age, calf circumference (−8.4 to −11.05%; p = 0.001) and grip strength (−9.32 to −21.01%; p = 0.001) exhibited a noticeable reduction with each successive 5-year age bracket. Conversely, the capability to complete the five-time chair stand demonstrated a clear incline (32.49 to 56.81%; p = 0.001), starting from the middle-aged group. As for appendicular skeletal muscle mass, there was an evident tendency for it to decrease (−7.08 to −26.62%; p = 0.001) with increasing age. A gradual decline in natural killer cells became apparent within the old-old and oldest-old groups (−9.28 to −26.27%; p = 0.001). The results of the post hoc test revealed that CD3 T cells showcased their peak levels in both the youngest-old and young-old groups. This was followed by the middle-old and old-old groups, with slightly lower levels. This pattern was similarly observed in CD4 T cells, CD8 T cells, and CD19 B cells. Conclusions: This study reaffirmed that sarcopenia and immune cell function decline with each successive 5-year increase in age. Considering these findings, the importance of implementing programs aimed at ensuring a high-quality extension of life for the elderly is strongly underscored.
Interdental Bone Level around Immediately Placed Implants at Maxillary and Mandibular Molar Sites: A Retrospective Radiographic Analysis
Authors: Alasqah Mohammed , Alzahrani Khalid S. , Gufran Khalid
Published: September 2023

Background and Objectives: The current study aimed to compare the amount of interdental bone loss between early and immediate implant placements. Materials and Methods: A total of 16 immediate implants and 16 early implants radiographs were included in the current research. The bone level was assessed at two different stages: at the extraction appointment (T1) and after three to six months of implant placement (T2). A line was drawn from the cemento-enamel junction connecting adjacent teeth to the interdental line connecting the interdental alveolar crest at both stages. The difference between measurements in the T1 and T2 stages is the bone loss measurement for the early implant group. For the immediate implant placement sites, the measurements were taken from the interdental bone crest to the implant platform level. Results: A Mann–Whitney U test was performed to evaluate the differences between both groups. The descriptive statistics of the T1 and T2 stages for both groups suggest that the bone loss in the T2 stage was generally higher than T1 stage. The immediate implant group showed higher bone loss compared to the early implant group. Moreover, there was significantly higher bone loss (p = 0.039) in the immediate implant group compared to the early implant group. Conclusions: The results of this study indicate that immediate implant might have disadvantages over early implant in terms of bone loss after the extraction of maxillary and mandibular molar teeth.
Portable Negative Pressure Wound Dressing in Oncoplastic Conservative Surgery for Breast Cancer: A Valid Ally
Authors: Casella Donato , Fusario Daniele , Pesce Anna Lisa , Marcasciano Marco , Lo Torto Federico , Luridiana Gianluigi , De Luca Alessandro , Cuomo Roberto , Ribuffo Diego
Published: September 2023

Background and Objectives: The use of oncoplastic techniques has spread widely in the last decade, with an expansion of the indications and demonstration of excellent oncological safety profiles. A potential downside may be the increased complication rates, which could influence the timing of adjuvant therapy. To date, there is increasing evidence that negative pressure therapy on closed wounds can reduce complication rates after surgery. From this perspective, we tested the use of portable negative pressure wound dressings (NPWDs) in oncoplastic surgery to minimize early post-operative admissions to the outpatient clinic and prevent surgical complications. Materials and Methods: An observational prospective cohort study was conducted on a population of patients who underwent quadrantectomy and wise-pattern reduction mammoplasty for breast cancer. The primary objective of the study is represented by the evaluation of the impact of NPWD on post-operative outcomes in an oncoplastic surgery setting. Patients enrolled between January 2021 and January 2023 were divided into two groups, the conventional dressing (CD) group and the NPWD group, by a simple randomization list. Results: A total of 100 patients were enrolled, with 52 in the CD group and 48 in the NPWD group. The use of NPWD significantly reduced the wound dehiscence rate (2.0% vs. 7.7% p = 0.002) and the number of one-month postoperative admissions to our clinic (3.8 ± 1.1 vs. 5.7 ± 1.3 p = 0.0009). Although not significant, it is possible to note a trend of reduction of clinically relevant postoperative total complications in patients treated with NPWDs. Conclusions: NPWDs may represent a useful tool in the post-surgical management of complex oncoplastic procedures, ensuring less wound dehiscence. Furthermore, the use of these dressings led to a significant reduction in admissions to the clinic, promoting a lower use of resources by hospitals and effective prevention of possible complications.
Bio-Humoral and Non-Invasive Haemodynamic Correlates of Renal Venous Flow Patterns across the Heart Failure Spectrum
Authors: Del Punta Lavinia , De Biase Nicolò , Mazzola Matteo , Filidei Francesco , Balletti Alessio , Armenia Silvia , Di Fiore Valerio , Buralli Simona , Galeotti Gian Giacomo , De Carlo Marco , Giannini Cristina , Masi Stefano , Pugliese Nicola Riccardo
Published: September 2023

Background: We evaluated the bio-humoral and non-invasive haemodynamic correlates of renal congestion evaluated by Doppler renal venous flow (RVF) across the heart failure (HF) spectrum, from asymptomatic subjects with cardiovascular risk factors (Stage A) and structural heart disease (Stage B) to patients with clinically overt HF (Stage C). Methods: Ultrasound evaluation, including echocardiography, lung ultrasound and RVF, along with blood and urine sampling, was performed in 304 patients. Results: Continuous RVF was observed in 230 patients (76%), while discontinuous RVF (dRVF) was observed in 74 (24%): 39 patients had pulsatile RVF, 18 had biphasic RVF and 17 had monophasic RVF. Stage C HF was significantly more common among patients with dRVF. Monophasic RVF was associated with worse renal function and a higher urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (uACR). After adjusting for hypertension, diabetes mellitus, the presence of Stage C HF and serum creatinine levels, worsening RVF patterns were associated with higher NT-proBNP levels, worse right ventricular–arterial coupling, larger inferior vena cava and higher echo-derived pulmonary artery wedge pressure. This trend was confirmed when only patients with HF Stage C were analysed after adjusting for the left ventricle ejection fraction (LVEF). Conclusion: Abnormal RVF is common across the HF spectrum. Worsening RVF patterns are independently associated with increased congestion, worse non-invasive haemodynamics and impaired RV-arterial coupling. RVF evaluation could refine prognostic stratification across the HF spectrum, irrespective of LVEF.
Robust Identification of Differential Gene Expression Patterns from Multiple Transcriptomics Datasets for Early Diagnosis, Prognosis, and Therapies for Breast Cancer
Authors: Tuly Khanis , Hossen Md. , Islam Md. , Kibria Md. , Alam Md. , Harun-Or-Roshid Md. , Begum Anjuman , Hasan Sohel , Mahumud Rashidul , Mollah Md.
Published: September 2023

Background and Objectives: Breast cancer (BC) is one of the major causes of cancer-related death in women globally. Proper identification of BC-causing hub genes (HubGs) for prognosis, diagnosis, and therapies at an earlier stage may reduce such death rates. However, most of the previous studies detected HubGs through non-robust statistical approaches that are sensitive to outlying observations. Therefore, the main objectives of this study were to explore BC-causing potential HubGs from robustness viewpoints, highlighting their early prognostic, diagnostic, and therapeutic performance. Materials and Methods: Integrated robust statistics and bioinformatics methods and databases were used to obtain the required results. Results: We robustly identified 46 common differentially expressed genes (cDEGs) between BC and control samples from three microarrays (GSE26910, GSE42568, and GSE65194) and one scRNA-seq (GSE235168) dataset. Then, we identified eight cDEGs (COL11A1, COL10A1, CD36, ACACB, CD24, PLK1, UBE2C, and PDK4) as the BC-causing HubGs by the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis of cDEGs. The performance of BC and survival probability prediction models with the expressions of HubGs from two independent datasets (GSE45827 and GSE54002) and the TCGA (The Cancer Genome Atlas) database showed that our proposed HubGs might be considered as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers, where two genes, COL11A1 and CD24, exhibit better performance. The expression analysis of HubGs by Box plots with the TCGA database in different stages of BC progression indicated their early diagnosis and prognosis ability. The HubGs set enrichment analysis with GO (Gene ontology) terms and KEGG (Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes) pathways disclosed some BC-causing biological processes, molecular functions, and pathways. Finally, we suggested the top-ranked six drug molecules (Suramin, Rifaximin, Telmisartan, Tukysa Tucatinib, Lynparza Olaparib, and TG.02) for the treatment of BC by molecular docking analysis with the proposed HubGs-mediated receptors. Molecular docking analysis results also showed that these drug molecules may inhibit cancer-related post-translational modification (PTM) sites (Succinylation, phosphorylation, and ubiquitination) of hub proteins. Conclusions: This study’s findings might be valuable resources for diagnosis, prognosis, and therapies at an earlier stage of BC.
Intra-Cranial Arterial Calcifications in Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Fanadka Feda , Rozenberg Ilan , Nacasch Naomi , Einbinder Yael , Benchetrit Sydney , Wand Ori , Hod Tammy , Cohen-Hagai Keren
Published: September 2023

Background and objectives: Vascular calcification is an integral part of atherosclerosis and has been reported to be an independent risk factor for cardiovascular diSsease. Intra Cranial Arterial Calcifications (ICAC) in maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) is highly prevalent. Materials and Methods: The aim of this retrospective study was to assess the predictors and outcomes of ICAC in MHD patients compared to a control group without kidney disease. A blinded neuroradiologist graded ICAC in brain imaging (computerized tomography) of MHD patients. Age- and sex-matched patients with normal kidney function served as the control group. Results: A total of 280 patients were included in the cohort; 140 of them were MHD patients with a mean ICAC score of 2.3 ± 0.2 versus a mean ICAC score of 1.4 ± 0.2 in the control group (p < 0.01). More than 90% of hemodialysis patients in our study had some degree of ICAC. Lower albumin and higher phosphorus and CRP levels were associated with increased ICACs. The multivariate analysis model for predictors of 1-year mortality demonstrated an increased odds ratio for mortality as the ICAC score increased. Conclusions: ICAC is very prevalent among MHD patients and results not simply from passive deposition of calcium and phosphate but rather from complex and active processes involving inflammation and structural changes in blood vessels. ICAC independently predicted all-cause mortality and may help with risk stratification of this high-risk population.
Stroke vs. Preeclampsia: Dangerous Liaisons of Hypertension and Pregnancy
Authors: Lackovic Milan , Nikolic Dejan , Jankovic Milena , Rovcanin Marija , Mihajlovic Sladjana
Published: September 2023

Stroke during pregnancy and preeclampsia are two distinct but interrelated medical conditions, sharing a common denominator—blood control failure. Along with cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, dyslipidemia, and hypercoagulability, hypertension is undoubtedly a major risk factor associated with stroke. Even though men have higher age-specific stroke rates, women are facing higher life-long stroke risk, primarily due to longer life expectancy. Sex hormones, especially estrogen and testosterone, seem to play a key link in the chain of blood pressure control differences between the genders. Women affected with stroke are more susceptible to experience some atypical stroke manifestations, which might eventually lead to delayed diagnosis establishment, and result in higher morbidity and mortality rates in the population of women. Preeclampsia is a part of hypertensive disorder of pregnancy spectrum, and it is common knowledge that women with a positive history of preeclampsia are at increased stroke risk during their lifetime. Preeclampsia and stroke display similar pathophysiological patterns, including hypertension, endothelial dysfunction, dyslipidemia, hypercoagulability, and cerebral vasomotor reactivity abnormalities. High-risk pregnancies carrying the burden of hypertensive disorder of pregnancy have up to a six-fold higher chance of suffering from stroke. Resemblance shared between placental and cerebral vascular changes, adaptations, and sophisticated auto-regulatory mechanisms are not merely coincidental, but they reflect distinctive and complex cardiovascular performances occurring in the maternal circulatory system during pregnancy. Placental and cerebral malperfusion appears to be in the midline of both of these conditions; placental malperfusion eventually leads to preeclampsia, and cerebral to stoke. Suboptimal performances of the cardiovascular system are proposed as a primary cause of uteroplacental malperfusion. Placental dysfunction is therefore designated as a secondary condition, initiated by the primary disturbances of the cardiovascular system, rather than an immunological disorder associated with abnormal trophoblast invasion. In most cases, with properly and timely applied measures of prevention, stroke is predictable, and preeclampsia is a controllable condition. Understanding the differences between preeclampsia and stroke in pregnancy is vital for healthcare providers to enhance their clinical decision-making strategies, improve patient care, and promote positive maternal and pregnancy outcomes. Management approaches for preeclampsia and stroke require a multidisciplinary approach involving obstetricians, neurologists, and other healthcare professionals.
A Motorcycle Paramedic Increases the Survival Rate of Patients after OHCA
Authors: Škufca Sterle Mateja , Podbregar Matej
Published: September 2023

Background and Objectives: Despite advancements in modern medicine, the survival rate of patients after out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) remains low. The proportion of OHCA patients who could be saved under ideal circumstances is unknown. A significant portion of patients experience cardiac arrest due to irreversible conditions. The survival of patients with reversible causes depends on the prompt initiation of basic life support (BLS) and early defibrillation. In order to increase the chances of survival, the motorcycle paramedic (MP) project was implemented in Ljubljana in 2003. The MP is equipped with an AED. In the case of OHCA with a shockable rhythm, he performs defibrillation before the arrival of the emergency medical team (EMT). The aim of this study was to evaluate whether the MP, by reducing response times to OHCA patients, increases the survival and outcome of these patients compared to the EMT. Materials and Methods: A retrospective analysis of OHCA cases within the area covered by Ljubljana Emergency Medical Service (EMS) was conducted for the period from January 2003 to December 2022. Instances where the MP arrived at the scene before the EMT were considered MP interventions and classified as the MP group; all other interventions were classified as the EMT group. Results: Between January 2003 and December 2022, the EMT performed resuscitation on 3352 patients. In 316 cases, the MP was simultaneously activated and arrived at the scene before the EMT. The response time in the MP group was shorter compared to the EMT group (7.7 ± 4.1 min vs. 9.9 ± 6.5 min, p < 0.001). In 16 patients, return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) was achieved before the arrival of the EMT. The MP group had a higher ROSC rate, a larger proportion of patients were discharged from the hospital and there were more patients with a good neurological outcome compared to the EMT group (44.3% vs. 36.9%, p = 0.009; 18.7% vs. 13.0%, p = 0.005; 15.9% vs. 10.6%, p = 0.004, respectively). Conclusion: This study has demonstrated that the implementation of the MP into the EMS in Ljubljana has resulted in shorter response times, an increased survival rate and improved neurological outcome for OHCA patients.
Fabrication of PS/PVDF-HFP Multi-Level Structured Micro/Nano Fiber Membranes by One-Step Electrospinning
Authors: Zhao Yixia , Zhang Zehao , Zhang Yan , Huang Yuting , Chen Yanfei , Chen Bofei , Kang Weimin , Ju Jingge
Published: September 2023

Recently, the multi-level interwoven structured micro/nano fiber membranes with coarse and fine overlaps have attracted lots of attention due to their advantages of high surface roughness, high porosity, good mechanical strength, etc., but their simple and direct preparation methods still need to be developed. Herein, the multi-level structured micro/nano fiber membranes were prepared novelly and directly by a one-step electrospinning technique based on the principle of micro-phase separation caused by polymer incompatibility using polystyrene (PS) and polyvinylidene fluoride-hexafluoropropylene copolymer (PVDF-HFP) as raw materials. It was found that different spinning fluid parameters and various spinning process parameters will have a significant impact on its morphology and structures. Under certain conditions (the concentration of spinning solution is 18 wt%, the mass ratio of PS to PVDF-HFP is 1:7, the spinning voltage is 30 kV, and the spinning receiving distance is 18 cm), the PS/PVDF-HFP membrane with optimal multi-level structured micro/nano fiber membranes could be obtained, which present an average pore size of 4.38 ± 0.10 μm, a porosity of 78.9 ± 3.5%, and a water contact angle of 145.84 ± 1.70°. The formation mechanism of micro/nano fiber interwoven structures was proposed through conductivity and viscosity tests. In addition, it was initially used as a separation membrane material in membrane distillation, and its performance was preliminarily explored. This paper provides a theoretical and experimental basis for the research and development of an efficient and feasible method for the preparation of multi-level micro/nano fiber membranes.
A Future for Vacuum Arc Remelting and Electroslag Remelting—A Critical Perspective
Authors: Campbell John
Published: September 2023

In the secondary metals refining processes, vacuum arc remelting (VAR) and electroslag remelting (ESR), the consumable electrode is commonly produced by vacuum induction melting (VIM) which employs the regrettably primitive casting technique of simply pouring into the open top of the mold. Despite the vacuum, the resulting oxidizing conditions and the immensely powerful turbulence accompanying the top-pouring of the electrode is now known to create a substantial density of serious cracks. The cracks in the cast electrode are bifilms (double oxide films), which in turn are proposed to be responsible for the major faults of the VAR ingot, including undetectable, horizontal macroscopic cracks, white spots (clean and dirty varieties) and in-fallen crown. The remedial action to solve all these issues at a stroke is the provision of a counter-gravity cast electrode, cast in air or vacuum, or provision of any similar electrode substantially free from bifilm defects. The ESR process is also described, explaining the reasons for its significantly reduced sensitivity to the top-poured VIM electrode, but indicating that with an improved electrode, this already nearly reliable process has the potential for perfect reliability. The target of this critical overview is an assessment of the potential of these secondary refining processes to produce, for the first time, effectively defect-free metals, metals we can trust.
The Effect of Soaking Time on Mechanical Properties of Roll-Bonded AA3003 and AA4045 Used for Heat Exchangers
Authors: Moema Joseph S. , Siyasiya Charles W. , Morudu Veronica K. , Buthelezi Thokozani
Published: September 2023

Due to the rising need for energy saving, high-performing automotive heat exchangers, demand has significantly grown in recent years. As a result, effective fin-tube heat exchangers are becoming more popular. These tubes are typically made by rolling flat strips of AA3003 aluminum alloys that have either one or both sides coated with AA4xxx alloys. The AA3003 type of alloy is typically used as the core, which is then covered in either AA4045 or AA4343, which melts during the brazing process to adhere the fins to the tubes. To maintain the optimal size and distribution of manganese (Mn)-containing precipitates, preheating parameters are carefully controlled. Then, longer soaking times or higher soaking temperatures result in larger precipitates, which cause the final product to exhibit poor mechanical properties. Therefore, it is crucial to optimize the different manufacturing steps, such as homogenization, soaking time, and brazing in order to achieve a high quality product. Studies on the impact of homogenization temperature and time on the microstructure of AA3xxx aluminum alloys have been conducted. However, there has been little research on the impact of soaking (reheating) time on AA3003 cladded alloys. Hence, the effects of isothermal soaking time on the microstructure and mechanical properties of AA3003 cladded with AA4045 alloy were investigated in this work. Optical microscopy (OM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used to characterize the microstructure and identify intermetallic phases. The final microstructure in terms of grain structure at various homogenization times was characterized by electron backscattered diffraction (EBSD). After the hot-rolling and cold-rolling of the as-received material, large particles of intermetallic (mainly in the form of Chinese script morphology consisting of Fe-Mn-Si) were broken into smaller particles with an increased Fe, Mn, and Si content, indicating the formation of an α-Al(Fe,Mn)Si phase. The α-Al(Mn,Fe)Si was found to be a dominant dispersoid precipitate in the modified AA3003 core. Coarsening of the Al(Mn,Fe)Si dispersoids at 505 °C was only observed at a 45 h homogenization time. The hardness trend with homogenization time was found to be similar to that after homogenization, cold working, and annealing, with exception of an increase in hardness in the latter possibly due to strain hardening (from cold-rolling).
A High-Throughput Microfluidic Cell Sorter Using a Three-Dimensional Coupled Hydrodynamic-Dielectrophoretic Pre-Focusing Module
Authors: Aghaamoo Mohammad , Cardenas-Benitez Braulio , Lee Abraham P.
Published: September 2023

Dielectrophoresis (DEP) is a powerful tool for label-free sorting of cells, even those with subtle differences in morphological and dielectric properties. Nevertheless, a major limitation is that most existing DEP techniques can efficiently sort cells only at low throughputs (<1 mL h−1). Here, we demonstrate that the integration of a three-dimensional (3D) coupled hydrodynamic-DEP cell pre-focusing module upstream of the main DEP sorting region enables cell sorting with a 10-fold increase in throughput compared to conventional DEP approaches. To better understand the key principles and requirements for high-throughput cell separation, we present a comprehensive theoretical model to study the scaling of hydrodynamic and electrostatic forces on cells at high flow rate regimes. Based on the model, we show that the critical cell-to-electrode distance needs to be ≤10 µm for efficient cell sorting in our proposed microfluidic platform, especially at flow rates ≥ 1 mL h−1. Based on those findings, a computational fluid dynamics model and particle tracking analysis were developed to find optimum operation parameters (e.g., flow rate ratios and electric fields) of the coupled hydrodynamic-DEP 3D focusing module. Using these optimum parameters, we experimentally demonstrate live/dead K562 cell sorting at rates as high as 10 mL h−1 (>150,000 cells min−1) with 90% separation purity, 85% cell recovery, and no negative impact on cell viability.