bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of donor smoking history on early post-transplant lung function measured by oscillometry
Authors: Belousova Natalia , Cheng Albert , Matelski John , Vasileva Anastasiia , Wu Joyce K. Y. , Ghany Rasheed , Martinu Tereza , Ryan Clodagh M. , Chow Chung-Wai
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Prior studies assessing outcomes of lung transplants from cigarette-smoking donors found mixed results. Oscillometry, a non-invasive test of respiratory impedance, detects changes in lung function of smokers prior to diagnosis of COPD, and identifies spirometrically silent episodes of rejection post-transplant. We hypothesise that oscillometry could identify abnormalities in recipients of smoking donor lungs and discriminate from non-smoking donors.

Methods

This prospective single-center cohort study analysed 233 double-lung recipients. Oscillometry was performed alongside routine conventional pulmonary function tests (PFT) post-transplant. Multivariable regression models were constructed to compare oscillometry and conventional PFT parameters between recipients of lungs from smoking vs non-smoking donors.

Results

The analysis included 109 patients who received lungs from non-smokers and 124 from smokers. Multivariable analysis identified significant differences between recipients of smoking and non-smoking lungs in the oscillometric measurements R5-19, X5, AX, R5z and X5z, but no differences in %predicted FEV1, FEV1/FVC, %predicted TLC or %predicted DLCO. An analysis of the smoking group also demonstrated associations between increasing smoke exposure, quantified in pack years, and all the oscillometry parameters, but not the conventional PFT parameters.

Conclusion

An interaction was identified between donor-recipient sex match and the effect of smoking. The association between donor smoking and oscillometry outcomes was significant predominantly in the female donor/female recipient group.
Abdominal physical examinations in early stages benefit critically ill patients without primary gastrointestinal diseases: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Cui Xiao , Shi Yu , He Xinlei , Zhang Mingyuan , Zhang Hua , Yang Jianhong , Leng Yuxin
Published: April 2024

Background

Gastrointestinal (GI) function is critical for patients in intensive care units (ICUs). Whether and how much critically ill patients without GI primary diseases benefit from abdominal physical examinations remains unknown. No evidence from big data supports its possible additive value in outcome prediction.

Methods

We performed a big data analysis to confirm the value of abdominal physical examinations in ICU patients without GI primary diseases. Patients were selected from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care (MIMIC)-IV database and classified into two groups depending on whether they received abdominal palpation and auscultation. The primary outcome was the 28-day mortality. Statistical approaches included Cox regression, propensity score matching, and inverse probability of treatment weighting. Then, the abdominal physical examination group was randomly divided into the training and testing cohorts in an 8:2 ratio. And patients with GI primary diseases were selected as the validation group. Several machine learning algorithms, including Random Forest, Gradient Boosting Decision Tree, Adaboost, Extra Trees, Bagging, and Multi-Layer Perceptron, were used to develop in-hospital mortality predictive models.

Results

Abdominal physical examinations were performed in 868 (2.63%) of 33,007 patients without primary GI diseases. A significant benefit in terms of 28-day mortality was observed among the abdominal physical examination group (HR 0.75, 95% CI 0.56–0.99; p = 0.043), and a higher examination frequency was associated with improved outcomes (HR 0.62, 95%CI 0.40–0.98; p = 0.042). Machine learning studies further revealed that abdominal physical examinations were valuable in predicting in-hospital mortality. Considering both model performance and storage space, the Multi-Layer Perceptron model performed the best in predicting mortality (AUC = 0.9548 in the testing set and AUC = 0.9833 in the validation set).

Conclusion

Conducting abdominal physical examinations improves outcomes in critically ill patients without GI primary diseases. The results can be used to predict in-hospital mortality using machine learning algorithms.
A protocol for annotation of total body photography for machine learning to analyze skin phenotype and lesion classification
Authors: Primiero Clare A. , Betz-Stablein Brigid , Ascott Nathan , D’Alessandro Brian , Gaborit Seraphin , Fricker Paul , Goldsteen Abigail , González-Villà Sandra , Lee Katie , Nazari Sana , Nguyen Hang , Ntouskos Valsamis , Pahde Frederik , Pataki Balázs E. , Quintana Josep , Puig Susana , Rezze Gisele G. , Garcia Rafael , Soyer H. Peter , Malvehy Josep
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has proven effective in classifying skin cancers using dermoscopy images. In experimental settings, algorithms have outperformed expert dermatologists in classifying melanoma and keratinocyte cancers. However, clinical application is limited when algorithms are presented with ‘untrained’ or out-of-distribution lesion categories, often misclassifying benign lesions as malignant, or misclassifying malignant lesions as benign. Another limitation often raised is the lack of clinical context (e.g., medical history) used as input for the AI decision process. The increasing use of Total Body Photography (TBP) in clinical examinations presents new opportunities for AI to perform holistic analysis of the whole patient, rather than a single lesion. Currently there is a lack of existing literature or standards for image annotation of TBP, or on preserving patient privacy during the machine learning process.

Methods

This protocol describes the methods for the acquisition of patient data, including TBP, medical history, and genetic risk factors, to create a comprehensive dataset for machine learning. 500 patients of various risk profiles will be recruited from two clinical sites (Australia and Spain), to undergo temporal total body imaging, complete surveys on sun behaviors and medical history, and provide a DNA sample. This patient-level metadata is applied to image datasets using DICOM labels. Anonymization and masking methods are applied to preserve patient privacy. A two-step annotation process is followed to label skin images for lesion detection and classification using deep learning models. Skin phenotype characteristics are extracted from images, including innate and facultative skin color, nevi distribution, and UV damage. Several algorithms will be developed relating to skin lesion detection, segmentation and classification, 3D mapping, change detection, and risk profiling. Simultaneously, explainable AI (XAI) methods will be incorporated to foster clinician and patient trust. Additionally, a publicly released dataset of anonymized annotated TBP images will be released for an international challenge to advance the development of new algorithms using this type of data.

Conclusion

The anticipated results from this protocol are validated AI-based tools to provide holistic risk assessment for individual lesions, and risk stratification of patients to assist clinicians in monitoring for skin cancer.
Do ferrous iron-oxidizing acidophiles (Leptospirillum spp.) disturb aerobic bioleaching of laterite ores by sulfur-oxidizing acidophiles (Acidithiobacillus spp.)?
Authors: Hetz Stefanie A. , Schippers Axel
Published: April 2024

The extraction of nickel, cobalt, and other metals from laterite ores via bioleaching with sulfur-oxidizing and ferric iron-reducing, autotrophic, acidophilic bacteria (e.g. Acidithiobacillus species) has been demonstrated under anaerobic as well as aerobic conditions in experiments in different laboratories. This study demonstrated the bioleaching of laterites from Brazil with the addition of elemental sulfur in 2-L stirred-tank bioreactors with pure and mixed cultures of Acidithiobacillus and Sulfobacillus species under aerobic conditions. In particular, a potential disturbance of mineral dissolution under aerobic conditions by ferrous iron-oxidizing acidophiles likely introduced as contaminants in an applied bioleaching process was investigated with Leptospirillum ferrooxidans at 30°C and Leptospirillum ferriphilum at 40°C, at maintained pH 1.5 or without maintained pH leading to an increase in acidity (with pH values <1.0) due to the biological production of sulfuric acid. Despite the proportion of ferrous iron to the total amount of extracted iron in the solution being drastically reduced in the presence of Leptospirillum species, there was a negligible effect on the extraction efficiency of nickel and cobalt, which is positive news for laterite bioleaching under aerobic conditions.
The association between neighborhood obesogenic factors and prostate cancer risk and mortality: the Southern Community Cohort Study
Authors: Kumsa Fekede Asefa , Fowke Jay H. , Hashtarkhani Soheil , White Brianna M. , Shrubsole Martha J. , Shaban-Nejad Arash
Published: April 2024

Background

Prostate cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related mortality among men in the United States. We examined the role of neighborhood obesogenic attributes on prostate cancer risk and mortality in the Southern Community Cohort Study (SCCS).

Methods

From the total of 34,166 SCCS male participants, 28,356 were included in the analysis. We assessed the relationship between neighborhood obesogenic factors [neighborhood socioeconomic status (nSES) and neighborhood obesogenic environment indices including the restaurant environment index, the retail food environment index, parks, recreational facilities, and businesses] and prostate cancer risk and mortality by controlling for individual-level factors using a multivariable Cox proportional hazards model. We further stratified prostate cancer risk analysis by race and body mass index (BMI).

Results

Median follow-up time was 133 months [interquartile range (IQR): 103, 152], and the mean age was 51.62 (SD: ± 8.42) years. There were 1,524 (5.37%) prostate cancer diagnoses and 98 (6.43%) prostate cancer deaths during follow-up. Compared to participants residing in the wealthiest quintile, those residing in the poorest quintile had a higher risk of prostate cancer (aHR = 1.32, 95% CI 1.12–1.57, p = 0.001), particularly among non-obese men with a BMI < 30 (aHR = 1.46, 95% CI 1.07–1.98, p = 0.016). The restaurant environment index was associated with a higher prostate cancer risk in overweight (BMI ≥ 25) White men (aHR = 3.37, 95% CI 1.04–10.94, p = 0.043, quintile 1 vs. None). Obese Black individuals without any neighborhood recreational facilities had a 42% higher risk (aHR = 1.42, 95% CI 1.04–1.94, p = 0.026) compared to those with any access. Compared to residents in the wealthiest quintile and most walkable area, those residing within the poorest quintile (aHR = 3.43, 95% CI 1.54–7.64, p = 0.003) or the least walkable area (aHR = 3.45, 95% CI 1.22–9.78, p = 0.020) had a higher risk of prostate cancer death.

Conclusion

Living in a lower-nSES area was associated with a higher prostate cancer risk, particularly among Black men. Restaurant and retail food environment indices were also associated with a higher prostate cancer risk, with stronger associations within overweight White individuals. Finally, residing in a low-SES neighborhood or the least walkable areas were associated with a higher risk of prostate cancer mortality.
Gastroblastoma: a case report and literature review
Authors: Li Jiayu , Wang Gang , Jiang Zhiwei
Published: April 2024

Objective

Gastroblastoma is an extremely rare gastric tumor. Its pathogenesis remains unclear and there is a lack of specific clinical symptoms. The aim of this paper is to report a case of gastroblastoma and provide references for the diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of this disease.

Methods

The diagnosis and treatment of a 51-year-old female patient with gastroblastoma were retrospectively reported. Analyzing this case by combining the clinical data such as imaging and pathological results of patients with the relevant literature.

Results

The patient’s chief complaint was the presence of melena persisted for over two weeks. Abdominal contrast-enhanced CT showed gastric antral nodules, and micro-probe endoscopic ultrasonography was considered as “gastric antral protruding lesions”. The initial diagnosis of “gastric stromal tumor” was made after admission, and surgical treatment was performed on September 23, 2021. Postoperative pathology showed that gastric mixed epithelial and stromal tumor, combined with immunohistochemical staining, was suggestive of gastroblastoma. No signs of tumor recurrence or metastasis were observed during the 2-year follow-up.

Conclusion

Combined with the existing literature reports, the incidence of gastroblastoma is mainly higher in young men, and the predilection site is gastric antrum. The biological behavior of the tumor tends to be indolent, and the prognosis of most cases is favorable. However, due to the extremely small number of cases, this conclusion still needs a large number of cases and follow-up data to support. Postoperative pathological and immunohistochemical examination results are the only methods for definite diagnosis at present, and surgery is the first choice for treatment.
Lower glycemia levels in subjects with excessive erythrocytosis during the oral glucose tolerance test living in conditions of severe hypoxia
Authors: Vilca Coaquira Kely Melina , Rojas Chambilla Rossela Alejandra , Tejada Flores Jeancarlo , Tintaya Ramos Henry Oscar , Quispe Trujillo Mariela Mercedes , Quispe Humpiri Solanyela Anny , Calisaya Huacasi Ángel Gabriel , Pino Vanegas Yony M. , Peña Vicuña Gilberto Félix , Salazar Granara Alberto Alcibiades , Tacuna Calderon Ana Lucia , Garcia Bedoya Nancy Monica , Yang Moua , Hancco Zirena Ivan
Published: April 2024

Background

Previous studies showed that residents of higher elevations have lower glucose levels. Our objective in this study is to determine the basal and postprandial glucose levels in apparently healthy permanent residents of the miner population center of La Rinconada located 5100 meters (m) above sea level.

Method

Forty male permanent residents of the Rinconada miner population center were studied. The oral glucose tolerance test was used to evaluate basal and postprandial glycemia levels at 1, 2, and 3 h.

Results

The individuals had a mean age of 43.95 ± 8.54 years. Basal glycemia in subjects without excessive erythrocytosis (EE) was 73.3 ± 7.9 mg/dL, while levels in patients with EE were 57.98 ± 7.38 mg/dL. In the postprandial period, at 1 h after oral glucose overload, a mean value of 76.35 ± 13.53 mg/dL was observed in subjects with EE compared to 94.68 ± 9.98 mg/dL in subjects without EE. After 2 h, subjects with EE had a glycemia level of 72.91 ± 9.17 mg/dL EE compared to 90.73 ± 13.86 mg/dL without EE. At 3 h, the average glycemia level in subjects with EE was 70.77 ± 8.73 mg/dL compared to 87.79 ± 14.16 mg/dL in those without EE.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that under hypoxic conditions, glycemia levels are lower in both subjects with and without EE, having obtained lower levels in subjects with EE in relation to those with normal values of Hb and Hct. The results of this study indicate that in the conditions of severe hypoxia, blood glucose levels are below the values considered normal for sea level.
Elevated CO2 and ammonium nitrogen promoted the plasticity of two maple in great lakes region by adjusting photosynthetic adaptation
Authors: Wang Lei , Dang Qing-Lai
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Climate change-related CO2 increases and different forms of nitrogen deposition are thought to affect the performance of plants, but their interactions have been poorly studied.

Methods

This study investigated the responses of photosynthesis and growth in two invasive maple species, amur maple (Acer ginnala Maxim.) and boxelder maple (Acer negundo L.), to elevated CO2 (400 µmol mol-1 (aCO2) vs. 800 µmol mol-1 (eCO2) and different forms of nitrogen fertilization (100% nitrate, 100% ammonium, and an equal mix of the two) with pot experiment under controlled conditions.

Results and discussion

The results showed that eCO2 significantly promoted photosynthesis, biomass, and stomatal conductance in both species. The biochemical limitation of photosynthesis was switched to RuBP regeneration (related to Jmax) under eCO2 from the Rubisco carboxylation limitation (related to Vcmax) under aCO2. Both species maximized carbon gain by lower specific leaf area and higher N concentration than control treatment, indicating robust morphological plasticity. Ammonium was not conducive to growth under aCO2, but it significantly promoted biomass and photosynthesis under eCO2. When nitrate was the sole nitrogen source, eCO2 significantly reduced N assimilation and growth. The total leaf N per tree was significantly higher in boxelder maple than in amur maple, while the carbon and nitrogen ratio was significantly lower in boxelder maple than in amur maple, suggesting that boxelder maple leaf litter may be more favorable for faster nutrient cycling. The results suggest that increases in ammonium under future elevated CO2 will enhance the plasticity and adaptation of the two maple species.
The effectiveness of a brief video-based intervention in reducing gender bias in Korea
Authors: Bae Yejin , Jeong Jisun
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Gender bias deepens gender disparities by fueling gender conflicts. Thus, effective interventions for gender bias are necessary. Understanding gender discrimination experienced by another gender, both emotionally and logically, may contribute to reducing gender bias in Korean society. Hence, we conducted an online experiment using Video Interventions for Diversity in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (VIDS) to examine the effectiveness of shortened VIDS intervention through perspective taking in reducing gender bias.

Methods

A sample of Korean adults aged 19–39 (n = 160, 61.8% women, 38.2% men) were recruited. In the treatment group, male participants watched VIDS videos that portrayed a woman getting gender prejudiced and female participants watched VIDS videos showing a man receiving gender biased treatment in the society. The videos presented to treatment group consisted of one narrative and one expert video from VIDS, which stimulate emotional and logical understanding of the another gender, respectively. Participants in the control group watched a control video that was irrelevant to gender bias. All participants then answered gender bias questionnaire, as well as cultural orientation questionnaire.

Results

Cultural orientation as a covariance, ANCOVA (Analysis of Covariance) revealed participants in the treatment group showed significantly lower gender bias than the control group. Within the treatment group, a moderation analysis showed that logical thinking moderated the relationship between emotional immersion and decreased gender bias, meaning stimulated logical thinking from watching the videos affected how engaging emotionally to the another gender’s situation lowers gender bias.

Discussion

Our findings suggest that VIDS, a video-based gender bias intervention tool, can still be effective when edited briefly. Furthermore, one’s perspective-taking strategy can be considered when trying to decrease gender bias through videos that promote perspective-taking. The findings highlight the possibility of utilizing short video intervention that enhances perspective taking on decreasing gender bias.
Effects of active exergames on physical performance in older people: an overview of systematic reviews and meta-analysis
Authors: Hernandez-Martinez Jordan , Ramos-Espinoza Francisco , Muñoz-Vásquez Cristopher , Guzman-Muñoz Eduardo , Herrera-Valenzuela Tomas , Branco Braulio Henrique Magnani , Castillo-Cerda Maria , Valdés-Badilla Pablo
Published: April 2024

This overview assessed the available body of published peer-reviewed systematic reviews and meta-analyses related to the effects of active exergames compared with active/passive control on physical performance outcomes in older people. The methodological quality and certainty of evidence were assessed using PRISMA, AMSTAR 2, and GRADE. The protocol was registered in PROSPERO (code: CRD42023391694). The main outcomes indicate that 4,477 records, five systematic reviews, and 10 meta-analyses were included. The AMSTAR-2 reported six meta-analyses with high methodological quality, four moderate quality, two systematic reviews with low quality, and three very-low quality. Meta-analysis was performed on balance using the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and Timed Up-and-Go (TUG) tests, on cardiorespiratory fitness using the 6-min walk test, and on upper and lower limbs muscle strength using the handgrip strength, knee extension, and 30-s chair stand tests. Significant differences in favor of the active exergames groups concerning active/passive groups were reported in BBS (SMD = 0.85; 95% CI = 0.12–1.58; I2 = 96%; p = 0.02), TUG (SMD = 1.44; 95% CI = 0.71–2.16; I2 = 97%; p < 0.0001), and 30-s chair stand test (SMD = 0.79; 95% CI = 0.33–1.25; I2 = 88%; p = 0.0008). However, no significant differences were reported in favor of the active exergames groups in 6-min walk (SMD = 0.93; 95% CI = −0.64 to 2.50; I2 = 95%; p = 0.24), handgrip strength (SMD = 0.67; 95% CI = −0.04 to 1.38; I2 = 84%; p = 0.06), and knee extension tests (SMD = 0.20; 95% CI = −0.05 to 0.44; I2 = 95%; p = 0.12) compared to active/passive control. However, it was impossible to perform a meta-analysis for the variables of walking speed as a fall risk due to the diversity of instruments and the small number of systematic reviews with meta-analysis. In conclusion, interventions utilizing active exergames have shown significant improvements in the static and dynamic balance and lower limb muscle strength of apparently healthy older people, compared to control groups of active/inactive participants, as measured by BBS, TUG, and 30-s chair stand tests. However, no significant differences were found in the 6-min walk, HGS, and knee extension tests.

Systematic review registration

PROSPERO, CRD42023391694.
A review of machine learning applications in power system protection and emergency control: opportunities, challenges, and future directions
Authors: Porawagamage Gayashan , Dharmapala Kalana , Chaves J. Sebastian , Villegas Daniel , Rajapakse Athula
Published: April 2024

Modern power systems, characterized by complex interconnected networks and renewable energy sources, necessitate innovative approaches for protection and control. Traditional protection schemes are often failing to harness the vast data generated by modern grid systems and are increasingly found inadequate and challenging for some applications. Recognizing the need to address these issues, this paper explores data-driven solutions, focusing on the potential of machine learning (ML) in power system protection and control. It presents a comprehensive review highlighting various applications which are challenging to address from conventional methods. Despite its promise, the integration of ML into power system protection introduces unique challenges. These challenges are examined in the paper, and suggestions are provided to overcome them. Furthermore, the paper identifies potential future research directions, reflecting the progressive trends in ML and its relevance to power system protection and control. This review thereby serves as an essential resource for practitioners and researchers working at the intersection of ML and power systems.
Case report: Congenital multidrug-resistant tuberculosis
Authors: Zhang Hongyi , Xia Lu , Zhang Peize
Published: April 2024

Congenital multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) is a rare disease with high mortality. We report a case of a neonate girl with congenital MDR-TB. The infant's mother underwent in vitro fertilization–embryo transfer and did not show any symptoms prior to delivery. After the 14th day of life, the infant had a fever and worsening difficulty breathing despite antibiotic treatment. She was then confirmed to have congenital MDR-TB and received ventilation and anti-TB treatment. When the infant's TB was diagnosed, her mother was screened for TB and found to have MDR-TB, affecting both her lungs and reproductive system. They both recovered and were discharged from the hospital, with anti-TB treatment ongoing.
A systematic review on the prospects of X- and Y-sexed semen in ruminant livestock: implications for conservation, a South African perspective
Authors: Ngcobo Jabulani Nkululeko , Nedambale Tshimangadzo Lucky , Sithole Sindisiwe Mbali , Mtileni Bohani , Mpofu Takalani Judas , Ramukhithi Fhulufhelo Vincent , Chokoe Tlou Caswel , Nephawe Khathutshelo Agree
Published: April 2024

South Africa is home to numerous indigenous and locally developed sheep (Nguni Pedi, Zulu, and Namaqua Afrikaner, Afrino, Africander, Bezuidenhout Africander, Damara, Dorper, Döhne Merino, Meat Master, South African Merino, South African Mutton Merino, Van Rooy, and Dorper), goat (SA veld, Tankwa, Imbuzi, Bantu, Boer, and Savanna) and cattle (Afrigus, Afrikaner, Bolowana, Bonsmara, Bovelder, Drakensberger, South African Angus, South African Dairy Swiss, South African Friesland, South African Red, and Veld Master) animals. These breeds require less veterinary service, feed, management efforts, provide income to rural and or poor owners. However, most of them are under extinction risks and some with unknown status hence, require immediate conservation intervention. To allow faster genetic progress on the endangered animals, it is important to generate productive animals while reducing wastages and this can be achieved through sex-sorted semen. Therefore, this systematic review is aimed to evaluate the prospects of X and Y-sexed semen in ruminant livestock and some solutions that can be used to address poor sex-sorted semen and its fertility. This review was incorporated through gathering and assessing relevant articles and through the data from the DAD-IS database. The keywords that were used to search articles online were pre-gender selection, indigenous ecotypes, fertility, flow cytometry, artificial insemination, conservation, and improving sexed semen. Following a careful review of all articles, PRISMA guidelines were used to find the articles that are suitable to address the aim of this review. Sex-sorted semen is a recently introduced technology gaining more attention from researchers particularly, in the conservation programs. Preselection of semen based on the sex chromosomes (X- and or Y-bearing chromosomes) is of paramount importance to obtain desired sex of the offspring and avoid animal wastage as much as possible. However, diverse factors can affect quality of semen of different animal species especially after sex-sorting. Flow cytometry is a common method used to select male and female sperm cells and discard dead and abnormal sperm cells during the process. Thus, sperm sexing is a good advanced reproductive technology (ART) however, it is associated with the production of oxidative stress (OS) and DNA fragmentation (SDF). These findings, therefore, necessitates more innovation studies to come up with a sexing technology that will protect sperm cell injuries during sorting in frozen-thawed.
The Angular Momentum Unloading of the Asymmetric GEO Satellite by Using Electric Propulsion with a Mechanical Arm
Authors: Zhu Hong , Qin Jie , Zhu Qinghua , Liu Chunyang , Yin Haining , Ye Lijun , Liu Fucheng
Published: April 2024

A high-precision attitude control satellite uses an angular momentum exchange device such as a flywheel or a control moment gyro as the actuator for attitude stability control. Once the accumulation of angular momentum exceeds the upper limit of the angular momentum exchange device, the satellite will lose its attitude control ability. Therefore, it is necessary to unload the angular momentum exchange device to ensure the attitude control ability of the satellite platform. The angular momentum accumulation of GEO(Geosynchronous Orbit, GEO) satellites with asymmetric structure can reach 40 Nms per day, and the accumulation speed is more than 20 times that of GEO satellites with symmetrical structure. Therefore, it is necessary to carry out angular momentum unloading for GEO satellites with asymmetric structure every day. The previous method of angular momentum unloading using electric propulsion has weak unloading capacity, which is not suitable for angular momentum unloading of asymmetric satellites. This paper presents a method of angular momentum unloading using a four-joint mechanical arm plus an electric thruster. Large angular momentum unloading with near-zero burn-up can be achieved through the thrust generated by station keeping. In addition, the problem of attitude and orbit coupling control can be solved by controlling the thrust direction of the electric thruster with a mechanical arm.
Serrations as a Passive Solution for Turbomachinery Noise Reduction
Authors: Totu Andrei-George , Cican Grigore , Crunțeanu Daniel-Eugeniu
Published: April 2024

Aircraft engine noise has become a significant concern for air operators to address. Engineering strategies have resulted in the development of easily applicable solutions, known as “passive solutions”, that do not necessitate real-time control. These solutions include the incorporation of corrugations or cutouts at critical locations on the engine’s aerodynamic surfaces. Realistic solutions, whether approached numerically or tested at small scales, as well as computational models, have been found to closely match experimentally observed behaviors, both in 2D and 3D scenarios. The identified geometries serve as promising starting points for devising combined concepts that may offer even better performance under specific flow conditions.
Comparative Morphology of the Carnassial Teeth Root Canals in Mixed-Breed Dogs and German Shepherds
Authors: Tandir Faruk , Avdić Rizah , Dučić Nejra , Džanković Aida , Tandir Redžep , Šaljić Ermin , Vejzović Anel , Hadžiomerović Nedžad
Published: April 2024

Root canal treatment of carnassial teeth in dogs is a common endodontic technique which aims to re-establish or maintain the health of the periapical tissues. In total, 43 dogs were used in this study. Root canal morphology was evaluated in 86 superior fourth premolars and 86 inferior first molars. Apical delta was present in 247 roots, while obliteration of the root canal was found in 11 roots. The most common type of apical delta of the roots of superior fourth premolars was type II, with up to 10 apical ramifications, while type IIIA, with 10–20 apical ramifications, was most commonly present in the roots of inferior first molars. Considering that knowledge of the morphology of root canals is essential for a successful endodontic procedure, the aim of this study was to analyze and compare the morphology of root canals in the carnassial teeth of German shepherds and mixed-breed dogs. Apical resection for the purpose of endodontic therapy of the superior fourth premolar and the inferior first molar is indicated at a length of 4 to 6 mm from the anatomical tip of the roots, which would completely remove the apical delta of these two teeth.
Integration of Whole-Genome Resequencing and Transcriptome Sequencing Reveals Candidate Genes in High Glossiness of Eggshell
Authors: Song Xiang , Li Shuo , He Shixiong , Zheng Hongxiang , Li Ruijie , Liu Long , Geng Tuoyu , Zhao Minmeng , Gong Daoqing
Published: April 2024

Eggshell gloss is an important characteristic for the manifestation of eggshell appearance. However, no study has yet identified potential candidate genes for eggshell gloss between high-gloss (HG) and low-gloss (LG) chickens. The aim of this study was to perform a preliminary investigation into the formation mechanism of eggshell gloss and to identify potential genes. The eggshell gloss of 300-day-old Rhode Island Red hens was measured from three aspects. Uterine tissues of the selected HG and LG (n = 5) hens were collected for RNA-seq. Blood samples were also collected for whole-genome resequencing (WGRS). RNA-seq analysis showed that 150 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in the uterine tissues of HG and LG hens. These DEGs were mainly enriched in the calcium signaling pathway and the neuroactive ligand–receptor interaction pathway. Importantly, these two pathways were also significantly enriched in the WGRS analysis results. Further joint analysis of WGRS and RNA-seq data revealed that 5-hydroxytryptamine receptor 1F (HTR1F), zinc finger protein 536 (ZNF536), NEDD8 ubiquitin-like modifier (NEDD8), nerve growth factor (NGF) and calmodulin 1 (CALM1) are potential candidate genes for eggshell gloss. In summary, our research provides a reference for the study of eggshell gloss and lays a foundation for improving egg glossiness in layer breeding.
Elevated FIB-4 Is Associated with Higher Rates of Cardiovascular Disease and Extrahepatic Cancer History in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Karagiannakis Dimitrios S. , Stefanaki Katerina , Petrea Foteini , Zacharaki Panagiota , Giannou Alexandra , Michalopoulou Olympia , Kazakou Paraskevi , Psaltopoulou Theodora , Vasileiou Vasiliki , Paschou Stavroula A.
Published: April 2024

Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is often complicated by steatotic liver disease, cardiovascular disease (CVD), and extrahepatic cancer. We investigated whether FIB-4, an indicator of liver fibrosis, is associated with a higher risk of CVD and extrahepatic cancer history in T2DM. Methods: Two hundred and nine of 244 diabetics admitted to our center in one year were included and retrospectively evaluated. Results: One hundred and fifty-two (72.7%) were males and 57 (27.3%) females. The mean age and FIB-4 were 64.3 ± 11 years, and 1.15 ± 0.5, respectively. One hundred and fifty patients (71.8%) had FIB-4 ≤ 1.3, and 59 (28.2%) had FIB-4 > 1.3. A history of CVD was presented in 76 (36.4%) patients, and of extrahepatic cancer in 39 (18.7%). Patients with CVD were significantly older than those without (68.4 ± 8.5 vs. 63.2 ± 11.5 years; p = 0.002), with significantly higher FIB-4 (1.26 ± 0.5 vs. 1.08 ± 0.5; p = 0.012). Patients with cancer were older, with higher FIB-4 compared to those without (68.2 ± 9.5 vs. 64.4 ± 10.9 years; p = 0.098 and 1.37 ± 0.6 vs. 1.1 ± 0.5; p = 0.004, respectively). FIB-4 > 1.3 was associated with a 2.1-fold probability for CVD (χ2 = 5.810; p = 0.025) and 2.7-fold probability for cancer history (χ2 = 7.603; p = 0.01). Conclusions: FIB-4 ≥ 1.3 is associated with a higher probability of CVD or extrahepatic cancer history. FIB-4 could potentially discriminate patients at risk, justifying stricter surveillance.
Therapeutic Drug Monitoring as a Tool for the Clinical Outcome Prediction in Vedolizumab-Treated Patients: An Italian Pilot Study
Authors: Cusato Jessica , Ribaldone Davide Giuseppe , Falzone Michela Helga , Manca Alessandra , Antonucci Miriam , Palermiti Alice , Saracco Giorgio Maria , Ceccarelli Linda , Costa Francesco , Bottari Andrea , Fornaroli Ginevra , Caviglia Gian Paolo , D’Avolio Antonio , Bertani Lorenzo
Published: April 2024

Over the years, vedolizumab (VDZ) has emerged as a more effective target therapy for inflammatory bowel disease. The aim of this work was to analyze a cohort of inflammatory bowel disease patients, evaluating the association between VDZ serum concentrations at 6 months from starting therapy and their clinical and biochemical indexes within one year of treatment, correlating drug levels with response and clinical remission. Forty patients treated with VDZ were enrolled. Drug concentrations were quantified through ELISA methods. VDZ levels correlated with hemoglobin levels at twelve months of therapy (p = 0.03) and with clinical remission at twelve months of therapy (p = 0.03); patients who reached clinical remission showed higher VDZ concentrations. A VDZ cut-off value of 43.1 μg/mL was suggested, predicting clinical remission at twelve months of therapy. A statistically significant association between VDZ levels at T6 and calprotectin <250 μg/g at T12 was found (p = 0.04). Furthermore, the optimal threshold value of VDZ levels at T6 associated with calprotectin <250 μg/g at T12 was identified: through levels higher than 45.2 µg/mL, we were able to predict remission one year after therapy. In the final regression multivariate model, no factor was retained as a predictor of clinical remission at one year of treatment. In conclusion, this is the first pilot study reporting a possible VDZ serum cut-off value able to predict not only the clinical remission at twelve months of therapy but also the calprotectin level, which is very important, as it is a surrogate marker of mucosal healing.
Clinical Comparative Study of Shade Measurement Using Two Methods: Dental Guides and Spectrophotometry
Authors: Alvarado-Lorenzo Alfonso , Criado-Pérez Laura , Cano-Rosás Mónica , Lozano-García Eva , López-Palafox Juan , Alvarado-Lorenzo Mario
Published: April 2024

Tooth color is a determining factor in the fabrication of dental prostheses. The aim of the present study is to compare two measurement methods used in the field of dentistry: dental guides and spectrophotometry. A total of 2768 natural teeth were measured using the Vita Classical and Vita 3D-Master dental guides (Vita-Zahnfabrik, Bad Säckingen, Germany), as well as a Vita Easyshade Compact spectrophotometer (Vita-Zahnfabrik). The measurements were carried out by one operator under suitable illumination conditions at 5500 degrees Kelvin. The obtained results show that the measurements obtained with the Vita Classical dental guide classifies teeth into the A-B categories, while the spectrophotometer preferentially classifies teeth into the B-C categories. The correlation coefficients obtained with the dental guides ranged from −0.32 to −0.39 (p < 0.01), while those for the spectrophotometer ranged from −0.35 to −0.55 (p < 0.01). Therefore, we can conclude that the spectrophotometer is more reliable and reproducible in its measurements than the dental guides.
Association of Moderate-to-Vigorous Physical Activity, Sedentary Time, Fat Percentage, and Physical Fitness with Gait Parameters in Women with Fibromyalgia: The Al-Ándalus Project
Authors: Llorente-Romero Sergio , Herrador-Colmenero Manuel , Acosta-Manzano Pedro , Borges-Cosic Milkana , Gavilán-Carrera Blanca , Latorre Román Pedro Ángel , Delgado-Fernández Manuel , Segura-Jiménez Víctor
Published: April 2024

Gait impairments have been found in women with fibromyalgia, reducing the physical activity possibilities in this population and leading to a negative correlation with fibromyalgia impact. The aim of this study was to analyze the individual and independent associations of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), sedentary time, fat percentage, and physical fitness with gait parameters in women with fibromyalgia. A total of 84 women with fibromyalgia were included. MVPA and sedentary time were assessed with accelerometry, fat percentage with bioimpedance analysis, and physical fitness with field-based fitness tests. Gait was assessed during a “6 min walk test” and categorized in velocity, cadence, step length, step cycle duration, unipedal stance phase, and bipedal stance phase. Individual relationships were analyzed by partial correlations and independent relationships by linear regressions, adjusting by age and height. MVPA, sedentary time, fat percentage, and physical fitness were correlated with most gait parameters (rpartial between |0.842| and |0.219|; p ≤ 0.05). Physical fitness was independently associated with all gait parameters (β between |0.346| and |0.761|; p ≤ 0.002). In addition, MVPA was independently associated with velocity and step length (β = 0.241 and 0.292; both p = 0.004), and fat percentage was associated with bipedal stance phase (β = 0.242; p = 0.049). Good levels of MVPA, physical fitness, and adequate weight balance are associated with improved gait parameters in women with fibromyalgia.
Impact of Indoor Radon Exposure on Lung Cancer Incidence in Slovenia
Authors: Birk Mojca , Žagar Tina , Tomšič Sonja , Lokar Katarina , Mihor Ana , Bric Nika , Mlakar Miran , Zadnik Vesna
Published: April 2024

Indoor radon is an important risk factor for lung cancer, as 3–14% of lung cancer cases can be attributed to radon. The aim of our study was to estimate the impact of indoor radon exposure on lung cancer incidence over the last 40 years in Slovenia. We analyzed the distribution of lung cancer incidence across 212 municipalities and 6032 settlements in Slovenia. The standardized incidence ratios were smoothed with the Besag–York–Mollie model and fitted with the integrated nested Laplace approximation. A categorical explanatory variable, the risk of indoor radon exposure with low, moderate and high risk values, was added to the models. We also calculated the population attributable fraction. Between 2.8% and 6.5% of the lung cancer cases in Slovenia were attributable to indoor radon exposure, with values varying by time period. The relative risk of developing lung cancer was significantly higher among the residents of areas with a moderate and high risk of radon exposure. Indoor radon exposure is an important risk factor for lung cancer in Slovenia in areas with high natural radon radiation (especially in the southern and south-eastern parts of the country).
Ovarian Causes of Pseudomyxoma Peritonei (PMP)—A Literature Review
Authors: Ionescu Sinziana , Marincas Marian , Madge Octavia Luciana , Dicu-Andreescu Irinel Gabriel , Chitoran Elena , Rotaru Vlad , Cirimbei Ciprian , Gherghe Mirela , Ene Adina , Rosca Robert , Radu Madalina , Simion Laurentiu
Published: April 2024

Background. Pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) is a rare, progressive, slowly growing, inadequately understood neoplasm with a 5-year progression-free survival rate of as low as 48%. It is characterized by varying degrees of malignancy and the production of mucinous and gelatinous structures. Typically, the development of pseudomyxoma peritonei is associated with the rupture of appendiceal mucinous tumors and other gastrointestinal or ovarian mucinous tumors. The goal of our literature review was to identify various aspects that characterize the ovarian causes of pseudomyxoma peritonei. Materials and methods. The authors performed an extensive literature search between 1 February 2024 and 2 March 2024 on the following databases: Pubmed, Scopus, Oxford Journals, and Reaxys, and the findings were summarized into seven main clinical and paraclinical situations. Results. According to our research, the main instances in which pseudomyxoma peritonei can be triggered by an ovarian cause are the following: (1) mucinous cystadenoma; (2) mucinous ovarian cancer; (3) colon cancer with ovarian metastasis; (4) malignant transformation of an ovarian primary mature cystic teratoma; (5) appendiceal mucocele with peritoneal dissemination mimicking an ovarian tumor with peritoneal carcinomatosis; (6) mucinous borderline tumor developing inside an ovarian teratoma; and (7) the association between a mucinous bilateral ovarian cancer and a colonic tumor. Conclusions. In our study, we aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of the ovarian causes of pseudomyxoma peritonei, including its epidemiology, imagery characteristics, symptoms, current treatment, and promising future therapies, in the hopes of finding feasible solutions, as a lack of understanding of this mucus-secreting malignant disease increases the risk of delayed diagnosis or uncontrolled deterioration.
A Review of Corrosion-Resistant PEO Coating on Mg Alloy
Authors: Yang Chao , Chen Pinghu , Wu Wenxing , Sheng Liyuan , Zheng Yufeng , Chu Paul K.
Published: April 2024

The corrosion problem of Mg alloy limits its application in many engineering fields. Plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) is an economical and eco-friendly technology that can create a dense oxide layer on Mg alloy, offering a solution to the corrosion issue. This research summarizes the use of PEO technology in developing corrosion-resistant coatings for Mg alloys and examines the growth mode and corrosion process of PEO coatings. It is concluded that current efforts to enhance the corrosion resistance of PEO coatings on Mg alloys can be categorized into two approaches: improving the internal structure of the coating and enhancing the phase composition. This includes optimizing coating thickness, roughness, and density; repairing micropores and cracks; and introducing corrosion-resistant compounds by doping. Micropores and cracks are identified as vulnerable points for corrosion, and sealing is an effective strategy to address this. By modifying the phase composition of the coating, corrosion occurrence can be minimized, significantly boosting the corrosion resistance of Mg alloys. Finally, future challenges and potential advancements in corrosion-resistant PEO coatings for Mg alloys are discussed.
Characterization of CdS/CdTe Ultrathin-Film Solar Cells with Different CdS Thin-Film Thicknesses Obtained by RF Sputtering
Authors: Melchor-Robles J. A. , Nieto-Zepeda K. E. , Vázquez-Barragán N. E. , Arreguín-Campos M. , Rodríguez-Rosales K. , Cruz-Gómez J. , Guillén-Cervantes A. , Santos-Cruz J. , Olvera M. de la L. , Contreras-Puente G. , Moure-Flores F. de
Published: April 2024

The development of semitransparent CdS/CdTe ultrathin solar cells has been delayed as a result of the activation annealing to which the device must be subjected, which may involve problems such as the sublimation of ultrathin films and the diffusion of Cd and S at the interface. In this work, CdS/CdTe ultrathin devices on soda-lime glass/SnO2:F/ZnO substrates were obtained by RF magnetron sputtering. CdS/CdTe ultrathin heterostructures were obtained with the following thicknesses for the CdS thin film: 70, 110, and 135 nm. The CdTe thickness film was kept constant at 620 nm. Subsequently, activation annealing with CdCl2 was carried out at 400 °C. Surface characterization was performed by scanning electron microscopy, which indicated that the CdCl2 annealing tripled the CdTe thin films’ grain size. Raman characterization showed that CdS thin films deposited by RF sputtering present the first, the second, and the third longitudinal optical modes, indicating the good crystallinity of the CdS thin films. The study showed that the photovoltaic properties of the CdS/CdTe ultrathin devices improved as the CdS thicknesses decreased.
Innovation and Discovery: A 30-Year Journey in Advancing Cancer Care
Authors: Ahmed Shahid
Published: April 2024

Since the inaugural issue of Current Oncology was published 30 years ago, we have witnessed significant advancements in cancer research and care [...]