bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Binary Fast Image Registration Method Based on Fusion Information
Authors: Liang Huaidan , Liu Chenglong , Li Xueguang , Wang Lina
Published: October 2023

In the field of airborne aerial imaging, image stitching is often used to expand the field of view. Registration is the foundation of aerial image stitching and directly affects its success and quality. This article develops a fast binary image registration method based on the characteristics of airborne aerial imaging. This method first integrates aircraft parameters and calculates the ground range of the image for coarse registration. Then, based on the characteristics of FAST (Features from Accelerated Segment Test), a new sampling method, named Weighted Angular Diffusion Radial Sampling (WADRS), and matching method are designed. The method proposed in this article can achieve fast registration while ensuring registration accuracy, with a running speed that is approximately four times faster than SURF (Speed Up Robust Features). Additionally, there is no need to manually select any control points before registration. The results indicate that the proposed method can effectively complete remote sensing image registration from different perspectives.
Recent Advance of Triboelectric Nanogenerator-Based Electrical Stimulation in Healthcare
Authors: Wang Xiaoke , Wang Yiming , Nie Shijin , Lin Zhiming
Published: October 2023

Along with the continuous aging of the population, various diseases have brought a great threat to human health and a large economic burden. The development of advanced medical devices has gained global attention for disease treatment. Electrical stimulation refers to stimulation and treatment of cells by high output voltage, which is an important rehabilitation and therapeutic strategy in medical treatment. Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs), which are lightweight and feature high-voltage output and flexible structure, have drawn great attention in the field of disease treatment for health care. The conversion of the body’s mechanical energy into electrical pulses to stimulate cells for health treatment through TENG has promising applications. Using uniquely designed TENGs to convert human mechanical energy into electrical impulses to stimulate cells is considered a promising health treatment. Here, we review the recent progress of TENG-based electrical stimulation for disease treatments, focusing on the structure, materials, and performances of the TENGs used in diverse facets of healthcare. More importantly, we systematically discuss the application of TENG-based electrical stimulation in wound healing, osteoblast proliferation and differentiation, muscle stimulation, nerve stimulation, and pacemakers. Finally, several developmental challenges of and prospective solutions for TENG-based electrical stimulation are discussed and summarized in light of recent advances.
Energy-Efficient Resource Allocation in Aerial Base Stations
Authors: Silva Wilson Rogério Soares e , Torres Renato Hidaka , Cardoso Diego Lisboa
Published: October 2023

Drones, or unmanned aerial vehicles, can be used as air base stations (UAV-BSs) for telecommunications. They prove useful in situations where the network is overloaded or unavailable due to natural disasters or maintenance work. UAV-BSs grant access to user/IoTs sensors on the ground, but their electromagnetic signals may suffer losses because of their dynamic capacity to provide access at different altitudes. These losses lead to transmission impairments, such as attenuation, fading, and distortion. To overcome these issues and improve signal quality, the UAV-BS position must be optimized. However, finding the optimal placement is a challenge, and a wide range of strategies employing different approaches have been adopted. In this study, we proposed a 3D positioning strategy for UAV-BSs that serves the maximum number of users with the smallest number of UAV-BSs. Results showed that the proposed heuristic could find the best position and altitude for the UAV-BSs, provide network access for mobile user/IoTs (Internet of things) sensors, maximize the number of devices connected to the UAV-BSs, and guarantee a minimum throughput for users. The proposed heuristic not only performs well in terms of coverage and performance, but is also more energy-efficient than other algorithms found in the literature.
Efficient Hardware Implementation of Elliptic-Curve Diffie–Hellman Ephemeral on Curve25519
Authors: Nguyen Hung , Hoang Trang , Tran Linh
Published: October 2023

Hardware architecture optimized for implementing the elliptic-curve Diffie–Hellman ephemeral (ECDHE) on 256-bit Montgomery elliptic curves presents unique challenges, particularly for resource-constrained IoT and mobile devices. This work aims to provide an efficient hardware implementation of ECDHE on Curve25519, including a dedicated finite state machine (FSM) designed to handle point multiplication and ECDHE operations, utilizing constant-time algorithms and a unified memory block for resource management. Additionally, we introduce an optimized modular computation unit that covers modular addition, subtraction, multiplication, and inversion. Our proposed hardware architecture enhances the efficiency of ECDHE operations while maintaining low resource utilization, considerably reduced latency, and low power consumption. Synthesized on the Xilinx Artix-7 platform, our design boasts 64,000 Slices and a clock speed of 102 MHz, and it computes an ECDHE scalar multiplication operation in 1.1 ms, consuming 117 mW. The proposed hardware design can be applied to various platforms, including mobile devices and IoT systems.
High-Capacity Imperceptible Data Hiding Using Permutation-Based Embedding Process for IoT Security
Authors: Liu Jui-Chuan , Chang Ching-Chun , Chang Chin-Chen , Xu Shuying
Published: October 2023

The internet of things (IoT) has become a popular technology in communication which utilizes the concept of connecting things together and exchanges information through various networks. Since data can be transferred through a wide range of channels, IoT systems suffer from potential data leakages. One of the common ways to reduce such risks is to engage steganography with secret information during transmission. A novel scheme proposed in this paper exploits simple pixel permutations to embed secret data. Instead of handling pixel blocks, the proposed scheme maneuvers on pixels directly. The proposed scheme simply manipulates the sequenced pixels using two coefficients, a threshold of range for pixel values, and a specified clustering count to fulfill the two major requirements of effective data hiding. The experimental results indicate that the proposed scheme provides a satisfactory embedding capacity and preserves a high level of image visual quality. The overall performance of the proposed scheme demonstrates its high potential in IoT security.
Effects of Substituting Activated Carbon with Titanium-Dioxide-Coated Cenospheres in Conventional Aquarium Filters
Authors: Snowdon Monika R. , Liang Robert F. L. , Kaur Avneet , Burton Erika A. , Rathod Shasvat , Fang Wenkai , Dhiyebi Hadi A. , Bragg Leslie M. , Zhou Norman Y. , Servos Mark R. , Freire-Gormaly Marina
Published: October 2023

We investigated the effectiveness of TiO2 cenospheres in reducing the concentrations of three common harmful compounds, ammonium, nitrate, and nitrite, in fish aquariums. These cenospheres can contribute to more sustainable and eco-friendly aquarium filtration systems while also improving the health of fish. We designed a 30-day experiment with three treatment groups based on the filter type: (1) a control group with a conventional aquarium filter, (2) a group with a TiO2 cenosphere filter, and (3) a group with a dark TiO2 cenosphere filter. The water quality was the same baseline in all groups, and each tank was monitored daily for changes in temperature, pH, ammonia, nitrate, and nitrite concentrations. We found that the TiO2 cenosphere filter was effective in reducing the concentrations of all three pollutants. By the end of the experimental period, the average concentration of nitrite in the control group was 10.7 µM, while the average concentration in the TiO2 cenosphere filter group dropped 55% to 4.7 µM from the baseline. The average concentration of nitrate was reduced by 17% and ammonia by 28% in the cenosphere-treated group. Hence, the cenospheres were effective in reducing the concentrations of all three pollutants, with the greatest reduction seen for nitrite. These findings support further investigation for incorporating TiO2 cenospheres into aquarium filtration to help reduce the environmental burden of the aquarium industry.
Robotics in Forest Inventories: SPOT’s First Steps
Authors: Chirici Gherardo , Giannetti Francesca , D’Amico Giovanni , Vangi Elia , Francini Saverio , Borghi Costanza , Corona Piermaria , Travaglini Davide
Published: October 2023

In the context of the potential future use of unmanned ground vehicles for forest inventories, we present the first experiences with SPOT, a legged robot equipped with a LiDAR instrument and several cameras that have been used with a teleoperation approach for single-tree detection and measurements. This first test was carried out using the default LiDAR system (the so-called enhanced autonomy payload-EAP, installed on the board of SPOT to guide autonomous movements) to understand advantages and limitations of this platform to support forest inventory activities. The test was carried out in the Vallombrosa forest (Italy) by assessing different data acquisition methods. The first results showed that EAP LiDAR generated noisy point clouds where only large trees (DBH ≥ 20 cm) could be identified. The results showed that the accuracy in tree identification and DBH measurements were strongly influenced by the path used for data acquisition, with average errors in tree positioning no less than 1.9 m. Despite this, the best methods allowed the correct identification of 97% of large trees.
Gellan Gum and Polyvinyl Alcohol Based Triple-Layer Films Enriched with Alhagi sparsifolia Flower Extract: Preparation, Characterization, and Application of Dried Shrimp Preservation
Authors: Yue Yijing , Cheng Xiaoyu , Liu Haijie , Zang Mingwu , Zhao Bing , Zhao Xin , Wang Le
Published: October 2023

To meet the demand for biobased packaging and minimize the oxidation of dried aquatic goods during storage, we created a triple-layer film (TF) with antioxidant capacity. The film was produced using polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) as the protective layer, gellan gum (GG)/PVA composite incorporating Alhagi sparsifolia flower extract (AFE) as the anti-oxidative capability layer, and GG as the anti-oxidative capacity slow-release control layer. The TFs with different AFE additions were characterized and compared to a single-layer film (SF) made of the same material. The results demonstrate that adding AFE to films degraded their water vapour and oxygen barrier properties as well as their tensile strength, but increased their light barrier properties, elongation at break, and anti-oxidative capability. The three-layer structure increased the light, water vapour, and oxygen barrier qualities of films, as well as their slow-release anti-oxidative capability. The application experiment revealed that the inclusion of AFE might aid in the preservation of dried prawn quality. Using TF supplemented with 5 (w/v) AFE to package the dried shrimps reduced the TBARS value by 47.5%. Our research indicated that TFs containing AFE have a wide range of possible applications in dried shrimp preservation.
Bactericidal Efficacy and Mechanisms of Non-Electrolytic Slightly Acidic Hypochlorous Water on Pseudomonas fragi and Pseudomonas fluorescens
Authors: Chen Qianru , Zhou Yanfang , Yun Xueyan , Zhao Namula , Bu Hongyu , Dong Tungalag
Published: October 2023

Chilled pork is frequently contaminated with Pseudomonas fragi and Pseudomonas fluorescens. In this study, the bactericidal efficacy and mechanisms of non-electrolytic slightly acidic hypochlorous water (NE-SAHW) against two strains of these two species were evaluated. The results showed that the antibacterial efficacy of NE-SAHW was positively correlated with the concentration level of NE-SAHW and negatively correlated with the initial populations of the strains. The strains of small populations were completely inhibited when provided with each level of NE-SAHW. The killed cells of P. fragi were 0.94, 1.39, 4.02, and 5.60 log10 CFU/mL, respectively, and of P. fluorescens they were 1.21, 1.52, 4.14, and 5.74 log10 CFU/mL, respectively, when the initial populations of the strains were at high levels (about 7 log10 CFU/mL). Both strains were completely killed within 12 s with the available chlorine concentration (ACC) of 50 mg/L of NE-SAHW. Morphological changes in both cells were observed by using a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and it was discovered that the cell membranes were damaged, which led to the leakage of the intracellular substances, including K+, nucleic acid, and protein. In terms of the Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) results, NE-SAHW destroyed the structures of membrane proteins and cell structure proteins, and influenced the composition of polysaccharides. The bacteria were definitely dead after treatment by NE-SAHW compared to the control according to the results of flow cytometry. These results demonstrated the potential bactericidal property of NE-SAHW when applied to the meat and other food sterilization industries.
Multi-Omics Analysis of Genes Encoding Proteins Involved in Alpha-Linolenic Acid Metabolism in Chicken
Authors: Zhao Wenjuan , Wang Yidong , Liu Xiaojing , Wang Yanke , Yuan Xiaoya , Zhao Guiping , Cui Huanxian
Published: October 2023

Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA, ω-3) is an antioxidant that reduces triglyceride (TG) levels in blood, a component of cell membranes and a precursor compound of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA, ω-3) and eicosatrienoic acid (DHA, ω-3). Fatty acid content is a quantitative trait regulated by multiple genes, and the key genes regulating fatty acid metabolism have not been systematically identified. This study aims at investigating the protein-encoding genes regulating ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) content in chicken meat. We integrated genomics, transcriptomics and lipidomics data of Jingxing yellow chicken (JXY) to explore the interactions and associations among multiple genes involved in the regulation of fatty acid metabolism. Several key genes and pathways regulating ω-3 fatty acid metabolism in chickens were identified. The upregulation of GRB10 inhibited the mTOR signaling pathway, thereby improving the content of EPA and DHA. The downregulation of FGFR3 facilitated the conversion of ALA to EPA. Additionally, we analyzed the effects of ALA supplementation dose on glycerol esters (GLs), phospholipid (PL) and fatty acyl (FA) contents, as well as the regulatory mechanisms of nutritional responses in FFA metabolism. This study provides a basis for identifying genes and pathways that regulate the content of FFAs, and offers a reference for nutritional regulation systems in production.
A Color Image-Encryption Algorithm Using Extended DNA Coding and Zig-Zag Transform Based on a Fractional-Order Laser System
Authors: Meng Fanqi , Gu Zhenglan
Published: October 2023

With the advancement of information technology, the security of digital images has become increasingly important. To ensure the integrity of images, a novel color image-encryption algorithm based on extended DNA coding, Zig-Zag transform, and a fractional-order laser system is proposed in this paper. First, the dynamic characteristics of the fractional-order laser chaotic system (FLCS) were analyzed using a phase diagram and Lyapunov exponent spectra. The chaotic sequences generated by the system were used to design image-encryption algorithms. Second, a modified Zig-Zag confusing method was adopted to confuse the image. Finally, in the diffusion link, the DNA encoding scheme was extended to allow for a greater number of DNA encoding rules, increasing the randomness of the matrix and improving the security of the encryption scheme. The performance of the designed encryption algorithm is analyzed using key space, a histogram, information entropy, correlation coefficients, differential attack, and robustness analysis. The experimental results demonstrate that the algorithm can withstand multiple decryption methods and has strong encryption capability. The proposed novel color image-encryption scheme enables secure communication of digital images.
Preparation of Cholesterol-Modified Hyaluronic Acid Nanogel-Based Hydrogel and the Inflammatory Evaluation Using Macrophage-like Cells
Authors: Yabuuchi Kohei , Suzuki Mika , Liang Chen , Hashimoto Yoshihide , Kimura Tsuyoshi , Akiyoshi Kazunari , Kishida Akio
Published: October 2023

Nanogels are candidate biomaterials for tissue engineering and drug delivery. In the present study, a cholesterol–hyaluronic acid hydrogel was developed, and the pro-inflammatory response of macrophages to the hydrogel was investigated to determine its use in biomedical applications. Hyaluronic acid modified with cholesterol (modification rate: 0–15%) and maleimide (Chol-HA) was synthesized. The Chol-HA nanogel was formed through self-assembly via hydrophobic cholesterol interactions in aqueous solution. The Chol-HA hydrogel was formed through chemical crosslinking of the Chol-HA nanogel via a Michael addition reaction between the maleimide and thiol groups of 4arm−PEGSH. We found that the Chol-HA hydrogels with 5, 10, and 15% cholesterol inhibited the pro-inflammatory response of HiBiT−THP−1 cells, suggesting that the cholesterol contributed to the macrophage response. Furthermore, Interleukin 4 (IL−4) encapsulated in the hydrogel of the Chol-HA nanogel enhanced the inhibition of the inflammatory response in HiBiT-THP-1 cells. These results provide useful insights into the biomedical applications of hydrogels.
Integrated Transcriptome Analysis of miRNAs and mRNAs in the Skeletal Muscle of Wuranke Sheep
Authors: Yun Yueying , Wu Rihan , He Xige , Qin Xia , Chen Lu , Sha Lina , Yun Xueyan , Nishiumi Tadayuki , Borjigin Gerelt
Published: October 2023

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are regarded as important regulators in skeletal muscle development. To reveal the regulatory roles of miRNAs and their target mRNAs underlying the skeletal muscle development of Wuranke sheep, we investigated the miRNA and mRNA expression profiles in the biceps femoris of these sheep at the fetal (3 months of gestation) and 3- and 15-month-old postnatal stages. Consequently, a total of 1195 miRNAs and 24,959 genes were identified. Furthermore, 474, 461, and 54 differentially expressed miRNAs (DEMs) and 6783, 7407, and 78 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were detected among three comparative groups. Functional analysis demonstrated that the target mRNAs of the DEMs were enriched in multiple pathways related to muscle development. Moreover, the interactions among several predicted miRNA–mRNA pairs (oar-miR-133-HDAC1, oar-miR-1185-5p-MYH1/HADHA/OXCT1, and PC-5p-3703_578-INSR/ACTG1) that potentially affect skeletal muscle development were verified using dual-luciferase reporter assays. In this study, we identified the miRNA and mRNA differences in the skeletal muscle of Wuranke sheep at different developmental stages and revealed that a series of candidate miRNA–mRNA pairs may act as modulators of muscle development. These results will contribute to future studies on the function of miRNAs and their target mRNAs during skeletal muscle development in Wuranke sheep.
Revolutionizing Diabetes Diagnosis: Machine Learning Techniques Unleashed
Authors: Shaukat Zain , Zafar Wisal , Ahmad Waqas , Haq Ihtisham Ul , Husnain Ghassan , Al-Adhaileh Mosleh Hmoud , Ghadi Yazeed Yasin , Algarni Abdulmohsen
Published: October 2023

The intricate and multifaceted nature of diabetes disrupts the body’s crucial glucose processing mechanism, which serves as a fundamental energy source for the cells. This research aims to predict the occurrence of diabetes in individuals by harnessing the power of machine learning algorithms, utilizing the PIMA diabetes dataset. The selected algorithms employed in this study encompass Decision Tree, K-Nearest Neighbor, Random Forest, Logistic Regression, and Support Vector Machine. To execute the experiments, two software tools, namely Waikato Environment for Knowledge Analysis (WEKA) version 3.8.1 and Python version 3.10, were utilized. To evaluate the performance of the algorithms, several metrics were employed, including true positive rate, false positive rate, precision, recall, F-measure, Matthew’s correlation coefficient, receiver operating characteristic area, and precision–recall curves area. Furthermore, various errors such as Mean Absolute Error, Root Mean Squared Error, Relative Absolute Error, and Root Relative Squared Error were examined to assess the accuracy of the models. Upon conducting the experiments, it was observed that Logistic Regression outperformed the other techniques, exhibiting the highest precision of 81 percent using Python and 80.43 percent using WEKA. These findings shed light on the efficacy of machine learning in predicting diabetes and highlight the potential of Logistic Regression as a valuable tool in this domain.
Effects of the Time of Hospice and Palliative Care Enrollment before Death on Morphine, Length of Stay, and Healthcare Expense in Patients with Cancer in Taiwan
Authors: Liao Yi-Shu , Tsai Wen-Chen , Chiu Li-Ting , Kung Pei-Tseng
Published: October 2023

We aimed to investigate the effects of the time from hospice and palliative care enrollment to death on the quality of care and the effectiveness and trend of healthcare utilization in patients with terminal cancer. Data on the cancer-related mortality rates between 2005 and 2018 reported in the National Health Insurance Research Database in Taiwan were obtained. The effect of hospice and palliative care enrollment at different timepoints before death on healthcare utilization was explored. This retrospective cohort study included 605,126 patients diagnosed with terminal cancer between 2005 and 2018; the percentage of patients receiving hospice and palliative care before death increased annually. Terminal cancer patients who enrolled in hospice and palliative care at different timepoints before death received higher total morphine doses; the difference in the total morphine doses between the two groups decreased as the time to death shortened. The difference in the total morphine doses between the groups gradually decreased from 2005 to 2018. The enrolled patients had longer hospital stays; the length of hospital stays for both groups increased as the time to death lengthened, but the difference was not significant. The enrolled patients incurred lower total medical expenses, but the difference between the two groups increased as the time to death shortened.
Supporting the Frontlines: A Scoping Review Addressing the Health Challenges of Military Personnel and Veterans
Authors: Alruwaili Abdullah , Khorram-Manesh Amir , Ratnayake Amila , Robinson Yohan , Goniewicz Krzysztof
Published: October 2023

(1) Background: Military personnel and veterans meet unique health challenges that stem from the complex interplay of their service experiences, the nature of warfare, and their interactions with both military and civilian healthcare systems. This study aims to examine the myriad of injuries and medical conditions specific to this population, encompassing physical and psychological traumas. (2) Methods: A scoping review (systematic search and non-systematic review) was performed to evaluate the current landscape of military healthcare. (3) Results: A significant change in the injury profile over time is identified, linked to shifts in combat strategies and the integration of advanced technologies in warfare. Environmental exposures to diverse chemical or natural agents further complicate the health of service members. Additionally, the stressors they face, ranging from routine stress to traumatic experiences, lead to various mental health challenges. A major concern is the gap in healthcare accessibility and quality, worsened by challenges in the civilian healthcare system’s capacity to address these unique needs and the military healthcare system’s limitations. (4) Conclusions: This review underscores the need for holistic, integrated approaches to care, rigorous research, and targeted interventions to better serve the health needs of military personnel and veterans.
Community Structure and Diversity of Endophytic Bacteria in Melon (Cucumis melo L.) Seeds
Authors: Zeng Kai , Li Yuandong , Wang Zhou , Du Yongkang , Fan Mingqiang , Xie Liqiong
Published: October 2023

Endophytic bacteria play a crucial role in the life cycle of Spermatophyta, and exploring the beneficial interactions between seeds and endophytic bacteria is an effective strategy for sustainable agricultural development and improved crop productivity. In this study, we employed Illumina Hiseq high-throughput sequencing technology to analyze the amplified fragments of microbial 16S rRNA sequences from melon seeds of MR-1, HH and their F1 generation, which displayed varying levels of resistance to bacterial fruit blotch disease. Initially, we extracted endophytes from eight melon samples and performed sequencing, obtaining an average of 84,758 effective tags per sample. At the 97% similarity level, the number of operational taxonomic units (OTUs) derived from melon seed endophytes ranged from 447 to 492. After filtering out low-level OTUs, we obtained an average of 65,866 valid tags from the eight samples, representing approximately 160 genera and 167 species across eight phyla. It was found that the composition of the endophyte communities in the eight samples was basically similar, and their abundance showed some variability. Furthermore, we utilized the KO and COG databases to functionally predict the genes of endophytes in melon seeds. The analysis revealed a significant enrichment of genes associated with pathways related to protein synthesis, carbohydrate metabolism, substance transport, and metabolite synthesis. These findings greatly contribute to our understanding of endophytic bacteria in melon seeds and serve as a vital reference for the selection and breeding of high-quality melon seeds, as well as the prevention of seed diseases.
Correction: Radman et al. Prevalence of Key Modifiable Cardiovascular Risk Factors among Urban Adolescents: The CRO-PALS Study. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17, 3162
Authors: Radman Ivan , Sorić Maroje , Mišigoj-Duraković Marjeta
Published: October 2023

The authors regret to acknowledge that a mistake has been made in the original article [...]
Correction: Nie et al. Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Mediated NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation and Pyroptosis in THP-1 Macrophages Infected with Bacillus Calmette-Guérin. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2023, 24, 11692
Authors: Nie Xueyi , Ma Boli , Liu Lei , Yuan Xiaotan , Li Mengyuan , Liu Yueyang , Hou Yuxin , Yang Yi , Xu Jinrui , Wang Yujiong
Published: October 2023

Lei Liu was not included as an author in the original publication [...]
Regional β-Diversity of Stream Insects in Coastal Alabama Is Correlated with Stream Conditions, Not Distance among Sites
Authors: Sankone Carlos , Bedwell Chris , McCreadie John
Published: October 2023

β-diversity is often measured over both spatial and temporal gradients of elevation, latitude, and environmental conditions. It is of particular interest to ecologists, as it provides opportunities to test and infer potential causal mechanisms determining local species assemblages. However, studies of invertebrate β-diversity, especially aquatic insects, have lagged far behind other biota. Using partial Mantel tests, we explored the associations between β-diversity of insects found in the coastal streams of Alabama, USA, and stream conditions and distances among sites. β-diversity was expressed using the Sørensen index, βSor, stream conditions were expressed as principal components (PCs), and distances as Euclidean distances (km) among sites. We also investigated the impact of seasonality (fall, summer) and taxonomic resolution (genus, species) on βSor. Regardless of season, βSor was significantly correlated (p < 0.01; r > 0.44) with stream conditions (stream size and water chemistry), while taxonomic resolution had minimal effect on associations between βSor and stream conditions. Distance was never correlated with changes in βSor (p > 0.05). We extended the use of the Sørensen pair-wise index to a multiple-site dissimilarity, βMult, which was partitioned into patterns of spatial turnover (βTurn) and nestedness (βNest). Changes in βMult were driven mostly by turnover rather than nestedness.
Characterization of Olive Fruit Damage Induced by Invasive Halyomorpha halys
Authors: Daher Elissa , Chierici Elena , Urbani Stefania , Cinosi Nicola , Rondoni Gabriele , Servili Maurizio , Famiani Franco , Conti Eric
Published: October 2023

The brown marmorated stink bug, Halyomorpha halys (Stål), is an invasive species causing economic crop losses. This species was recently detected attacking olive fruits. The aim of this study was to characterize feeding damage. Olive samples were initially collected from a field where H. halys was reported to cause damage to olive fruits. Hence, we conducted a field trial on the Moraiolo variety using sleeve cages to test the effect of H. halys feeding pressure on olive fruit drop and evaluated the effect of feeding on fruit quality. We tested two densities of H. halys (two or eight adults/cage) at two different stages of olive development, pre- and post-pit hardening. High pressure of H. halys before pit hardening caused a significant fruit drop compared to the control. In addition, chemical analysis of damaged and infested fruits revealed higher levels of total phenols compared to healthy fruits. These findings indicate that feeding by H. halys induced a stress response in the plants that could translate in quality variations in the olive drupes.
Effects of Plasma Temperature in the Blowout Regime for Plasma Accelerators
Authors: Cao Gevy Jiawei
Published: October 2023

Research on plasma accelerators for high-energy colliders has rapidly progressed over the past few decades. Plasma acceleration with a high repetition rate will enable higher collider luminosity, but results in a heated plasma. This study investigates two phenomena—beam breakup instability and ion motion—in the nonlinear blowout regime in plasma accelerators and how the plasma temperature affects them. It was found that increasing the plasma temperature enhances the beam breakup instability by reducing the blowout radius while suppressing the on-axis ion-density spike caused by ion motion. This imposes a stringent demand on alignment tolerances, but it offers promising prospects for mitigating ion motion.
Efficacy and Safety of Iodixanol in Computed Coronary Tomographic Angiography and Cardiac Catheterization
Authors: Budoff Matthew J. , Lee Hong Seok , Roy Sion K. , Shekar Chandana
Published: October 2023

Iodixanol is an iso-osmolar non-ionic dimeric hydrophilic contrast agent with a higher viscosity than the monomeric agents. It is the only Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved iso-osmolar agent in the United States, and it is the only contrast agent with an FDA-approved indication for use in cardiac computed tomographic angiography (CCTA), to assist in the diagnostic evaluation of patients with suspected coronary artery disease. In clinical studies, it has been noted to have fewer side effects and similar image quality when compared to low-osmolar contrast media. This can be attributed to the pharmacological properties of iodixanol. These contrast agents are used for coronary computed tomography angiography and cardiac catheterization. In this article, the use, tolerability, and efficacy of iodixanol are reviewed, specifically evaluating the use of CCTA and coronary angiography, including outcome studies, randomized trials, and comparisons to other contrast agents.
Advances of Nanotechnology in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Escutia-Gutiérrez Rebeca , Sandoval-Rodríguez Ana , Zamudio-Ojeda Adalberto , Guevara-Martínez Santiago José , Armendáriz-Borunda Juan
Published: October 2023

Nanotechnology has emerged as a promising technology in the field of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), specifically in the implementation of diagnosis and treatment strategies. Nanotechnology-based approaches, such as nanoparticle-based contrast agents and nanoscale imaging techniques, have shown great potential for enhancing the sensitivity and specificity of HCC detection. These approaches provide high-resolution imaging and allow for the detection of molecular markers and alterations in cellular morphology associated with HCC. In terms of treatment, nanotechnology has revolutionized HCC therapy by enabling targeted drug delivery, enhancing therapeutic efficacy, and minimizing off-target effects. Nanoparticle-based drug carriers can be functionalized with ligands specific to HCC cells, allowing for selective accumulation of therapeutic agents at the tumor site. Furthermore, nanotechnology can facilitate combination therapy by co-encapsulating multiple drugs within a single nanoparticle, allowing for synergistic effects and overcoming drug resistance. This review aims to provide an overview of recent advances in nanotechnology-based approaches for the diagnosis and treatment of HCC. Further research is needed to optimize the design and functionality of nanoparticles, improve their biocompatibility and stability, and evaluate their long-term safety and efficacy. Nonetheless, the integration of nanotechnology in HCC management holds great promise and may lead to improved patient outcomes in the future.
The RAAS Goodfellas in Cardiovascular System
Authors: Caputo Ilaria , Bertoldi Giovanni , Driussi Giulia , Cacciapuoti Martina , Calò Lorenzo A.
Published: October 2023

In the last two decades, the study of the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAAS) has revealed a counterregulatory protective axis. This protective arm is characterized by ACE2/Ang 1-7/MasR and Ang 1-9 that largely counteracts the classic arm of the RAAS mediated by ACE/Ang II/AT1R/aldosterone and plays an important role in the prevention of inflammation, oxidative stress, hypertension, and cardiovascular remodeling. A growing body of evidence suggests that enhancement of this counterregulatory arm of RAAS represents an important therapeutic approach to facing cardiovascular comorbidities. In this review, we provide an overview of the beneficial effects of ACE2, Ang 1-7/MasR, and Ang 1-9 in the context of oxidative stress, vascular dysfunction, and organ damage.
Sepsis Outcome after Major Abdominal Surgery Does Not Seem to Be Improved by the Use of Pentameric Immunoglobulin IgM: A Single-Center Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Perrella Alessandro , Rinaldi Luca , Guarino Ilaria , Bernardi Francesca Futura , Castriconi Maurizio , Antropoli Carmine , Pafundi Pia Clara , Di Micco Pierpaolo , Sarno Marina , Capoluongo Nicolina , Minei Giuseppina , Perrella Marco , Frangiosa Antonio , Capuano Annalisa
Published: October 2023

Background: Sepsis still represents a major public health issue worldwide, and the immune system plays a main role during infections; therefore, its activity is mandatory to resolve this clinical condition. In this report, we aimed to retrospectively verify in a real-life setting the possible usefulness of pentameric IgM plus antibiotics in recovering patients with sepsis after major abdominal surgery. Materials/methods: We reviewed, from January 2013 until December 2019, all adult patients admitted to the ICU for sepsis or septic shock (2) after major abdominal surgery. Among these patients, were identified those that, according to legal indication and licenses in Italy, were treated with pentameric IgM plus antibiotics (Group A) or with antibiotics alone (Group B). The following parameters were evaluated: blood gas analysis, lactate, CRP, procalcitonin, endotoxin activity, liver and renal function, coagulation and blood cell count at different time points (every 48 h for at least 7 days). Differences between groups were analyzed using Fisher’s exact test or a chi-square test for categorical variables. A Mann–Whitney U test or Kruskal–Wallis test were instead been performed to compare continuous variables. Univariate and multivariate analysis were also performed. Results: Over a period of 30 months, 24 patients were enrolled in Group A and 20 patients in Group B. In those subjects, no statistical differences were found in terms of bacterial or fungal infection isolates, when detected in a blood culture test, or according to inflammatory index, a score, lactate levels and mortality rate. A 48 h response was statistically more frequent in Group B than in Group A, while no differences were found in other clinical and laboratory evaluations. Conclusions: Based on our results, the use of pentameric IgM does not seem to give any clinical advantages in preventing sepsis after major abdominal surgery.
Increased Sustainability in Fastener Production with the Example of Self-Piercing Rivets
Authors: Uhe Benedikt , Kuball Clara-Maria , Merklein Marion , Meschut Gerson
Published: October 2023

The sustainability of the manufacturing industry is of special importance to increase the protection of the environment. The production of fasteners like self-piercing rivets, however, is costly, time-consuming and energy-intensive. The heat treatment and the coating, which are mandatory in conventional self-piercing rivets to achieve adequate strength, ductility and corrosion resistance, are especially crucial in this respect. Within this paper, an approach for an increase in the sustainability in fastener production is presented. The use of alternative, high strain hardening stainless steels as rivet material enables a shortening of the process chain, because post treatment of the rivets after they are formed can be omitted. As the change in rivet material and processing causes some issues along the process chain, the focus of this paper is on the holistic evaluation of the challenges within the forming of high strain hardening steel and the impact of the changed rivet properties on the joining result.
Life History Parameters to Inform Pattern of Prenatal Investment in Marine Mammals
Authors: Huang Xiaoyu , Liu Mingming , Turvey Samuel T. , Lin Mingli , Li Songhai
Published: October 2023

Marine mammals are a diverse group of aquatic animals that exhibit wide variation in body size, living conditions, breeding habitat, social behaviour and phylogeny. Although case studies about prenatal investment in cetaceans and pinnipeds have been investigated, comparative studies across different marine mammal taxonomic groups have not yet been conducted systematically. Here, six life history parameters from 75 marine mammal species were collected based on a meta-analysis of the existing literature, and prenatal investment patterns for different taxonomic groups were explored using an unsupervised artificial neural network of a self-organizing map (SOM). Most marine mammal species can be clearly divided into two clusters of small-bodied taxa (small-bodied toothed whales, pinnipeds) and large-bodied taxa (baleen whales, sperm whales and beaked whales, large-bodied toothed whales) based on their distribution within SOM feature maps. Gestation periods and breeding intervals are significantly shorter in pinnipeds than in small-bodied toothed dolphins despite being similar in body size, indicating their adaption to birthing and nursing on land or ice floes. Specific deep-dive feeding behaviour seems to have no impact on the prenatal investment of beaked whales and sperm whales, as these species exhibit a similar capital breeding strategy to baleen whales. Medium-bodied sirenians adopt an intermediate strategy between small-bodied and large-bodied toothed whales, suggesting their prenatal investment strategy is not affected by herbivorous habits. Overall, our results support the body-size hypothesis and breeding-substrate hypothesis and indicate that prenatal investment strategies of marine mammals are possibly not influenced by feeding habits or social behaviour. We suggest that effective conservation measures for small-bodied toothed whales and pinnipeds should prioritize the protection of habitats and minimize human disturbance, whereas conservation measures for large-bodied whales and beaked whales should focus on strategies to prevent substantial declines in population size.
Experimental Study on the Flow Field, Force, and Moment Measurements of Submarines with Different Stern Control Surfaces
Authors: Ke Lin , Ye Jinming , Liang Qiufeng
Published: October 2023

Flow field performance tests of submarine models with cross-rudder and X-rudder stern control surfaces were conducted to study X-rudders’ performance in non-uniform flow fields. The tests compared performance parameters such as resistance, lateral steering force, yaw moment, stern velocity field, and flow field inhomogeneity coefficient under low- and high-speed conditions. The test results show that, at low speed, the resistance of the X-rudder submarine is smaller than that of the cross-rudder one at the same rudder angle. In contrast, at high speed, the resistance of the cross-rudder submarine is smaller than that of the X-rudder submarine. Under low- and high-speed conditions, the X-rudder’s lateral steering force and yaw moment are larger than those of the cross rudder at the same rudder angle. The superiority of the maneuverability of the X-rudder becomes more apparent with increasing rudder angle. At a rudder angle of 10°, the X-rudder’s lateral steering force and yaw moment are about two times larger than the cross rudder’s. In the small-radius area of the propeller plane, the inhomogeneity coefficient of the X-rudder is generally smaller than that of the cross rudder. This is probably because the cross-rudder stern control surfaces have fixed stabilizers with flaps, and the X-rudder stern control surfaces are all-moving, with a small fixed part next to the submarine. This test provides a reference for designing the stern control surface of low-noise submarines.
Lichen Biodiversity and Near-Infrared Metabolomic Fingerprint as Diagnostic and Prognostic Complementary Tools for Biomonitoring: A Case Study in the Eastern Iberian Peninsula
Authors: Moya Patricia , Chiva Salvador , Catalá Myriam , Garmendia Alfonso , Casale Monica , Gomez Jose , Pazos Tamara , Giordani Paolo , Calatayud Vicent , Barreno Eva
Published: October 2023

In the 1990s, a sampling network for the biomonitoring of forests using epiphytic lichen diversity was established in the eastern Iberian Peninsula. This area registered air pollution impacts by winds from the Andorra thermal power plant, as well as from photo-oxidants and nitrogen depositions from local and long-distance transport. In 1997, an assessment of the state of lichen communities was carried out by calculating the Index of Atmospheric Purity. In addition, visible symptoms of morphological injury were recorded in nine macrolichens pre-selected by the speed of symptom evolution and their wide distribution in the territory. The thermal power plant has been closed and inactive since 2020. During 2022, almost 25 years later, seven stations of this previously established biomonitoring were revaluated. To compare the results obtained in 1997 and 2022, the same methodology was used, and data from air quality stations were included. We tested if, by integrating innovative methodologies (NIRS) into biomonitoring tools, it is possible to render an integrated response. The results displayed a general decrease in biodiversity in several of the sampling plots and a generalised increase in damage symptoms in the target lichen species studied in 1997, which seem to be the consequence of a multifactorial response.
Addition of Five Novel Fungal Flora to the Xylariomycetidae (Sordariomycetes, Ascomycota) in Northern Thailand
Authors: Samarakoon Milan C. , Lumyong Saisamorn , Manawasinghe Ishara S. , Suwannarach Nakarin , Cheewangkoon Ratchadawan
Published: October 2023

The deviation of conventional fungal niches is an important factor in the implications of hidden fungal diversity and global fungal numbers. The Xylariomycetidae (Sordariomycetes, Ascomycota), which is also referred to as xylarialean taxa, has a wide range of species that demonstrate a high degree of variation in their stromatic characteristics, showing either conspicuous or inconspicuous forms. In this study, samples were collected while focusing on temporal and spatial parameters and substrate characteristics. Based on internal transcribed spacer (ITS), 28S large subunit rDNA (LSU), RNA polymerase II second largest subunit (RPB2), and β-tubulin (TUB2) multigene phylogeny and morphology, five new species are introduced as Muscodor brunneascosporus, M. lamphunensis (Xylariaceae), Nigropunctata hydei, N. saccata (Incertae sedis), and Xenoanthostomella parvispora (Gyrotrichaceae). Plant substrates in the early stages of decay and attached to the host were feasible sample niches, with an emphasis on the collection of inconspicuous, hidden xylarialean species. The appearance of inconspicuous saprobic xylarialean forms during the rainy season may be linked to the change in nutritional mode, from endophytic mode during the dry season to saprobic in the wet. Therefore, it would be fascinating to concentrate future research on how seasonal fluctuations affect nutritional mode shifts, especially in northern Thailand, which would provide the optimal spatial characteristics. In order to establish a comprehensive linkage between endophytic and saprobic modes, it is imperative to have a substantial representation of endophytic isolate sequences resembling inconspicuous xylariaceous fungi within publicly accessible databases.
Unexpected Dramatic Evolution of Placenta Increta: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Tîrnovanu Mihaela Camelia , Tîrnovanu Vlad Gabriel , Toma Bogdan , Toma Loredana , Țarcă Elena , Stătescu Laura , Tîrnovanu Ștefan Dragoș , Ungureanu Carmen , Trandafirescu Mioara Florentina , Bernic Jana , Cojocaru Elena
Published: October 2023

Placental morbid adherence is a known risk factor for postpartum hemorrhage. The incidence of abnormal placental attachment has been increasing over the past few decades, mainly due to rising rates of cesarean deliveries, advanced maternal age, and the use of assisted reproductive technologies. Cesarean section is a significant risk factor for placenta increta, as it disrupts the normal architecture of the uterine wall, making it more difficult for the placenta to detach after delivery. We present the case of a woman who underwent a cesarean section at 28 weeks due to anterior placenta previa, accompanied by hemorrhage and rupture of membranes. Following the delivery, she experienced normal postoperative bleeding and was discharged home after five days. However, six weeks later, she presented with heavy bleeding, leading to the decision to perform a total hysterectomy. The levels of HCG were found to be low. The pathological examination of the specimens confirmed a diagnosis of placenta increta, as it revealed notable placental proliferation, necrotic villi, and placental invasion near the uterine serosa. Notably, we did not find any similar cases documented in the literature. Patients experiencing prolonged vaginal bleeding after childbirth and diagnosed with placenta accreta should be closely monitored through ultrasound examinations; abnormal proliferation of the placenta can occur, and prompt detection is crucial for appropriate management.